will@cvradio.com
Russias economic condition remains precarious, mostly due to low oil prices, whereas Western sanctions have created additional problems. There are so far few signs of public discontent and Putins approval ratings remain high. Yet the Russian leadership apparently does not exclude the possibility of mass protests similar to those erupting in early 2012, which could spread and create a problem for the regime. In response to this possible scenario, Putin announced the creation of a National Guard in April 2016, a process that should be completed in 2017. The National Guard incorporated Chechen forces loyal to Ramzan Kadyrov, which could be deployed by the regime as a last resort.
BACKGROUND: The creation of a National Guard as a sort of Praetorian force is not a recent invention. The idea started circulating among the Yeltsin elite in the beginning of post-Soviet history in 1991/1992, when the loyalty of the army in the territories of the Russian Federation was under question. Shortly after the bloody standoff with the Parliament/Supreme Soviet in 1993, Yeltsin entertained the idea of creating elite forces that would protect the regime in the case of future similar events.Yeltsins concern was justifiable, given that the army had wavered and tried to stay out of the conflict. Yeltsins position remained unstable and he again brought up the prospect of creating a National Guard in 1998. Yet Yeltsin then decided to retire and consequently felt no need for it.
Putin clearly has no such plans. He and Medvedev possibly entertained the same idea in 2009 and 2010, presumably in response to the violence in Kondopoga (2006), Stavropol (2007) and in Moscow (2010). All of these incidents were fueled by tensions between ethnic Russians and migrants from Russias North Caucasus, whom Russians called people of Caucasian nationality, and who were attacked by Russian crowds.
In 2012, after Putins reelection as president and the adjacent public protests, the idea of establishing a National Guard reemerged once again due to the leaderships fear of color revolutions. Observing developments in the Middle East during the Arab Spring, the regime became increasingly wary of collapsing authoritarian regimes and ensuing anarchy, and the risk of a similar scenario playing out in Russia.
IMPLICATIONS: The National Guard will consist of up to 400,000 men, and will be equipped with heavy weapons. Putins confidant General Viktor Zolotov has been named as its commander. Yet Putin will retain ultimate control of the Guard and can give orders directly, bypassing any intermediate leaders.
The large number of National Guard personnel should be sufficient to quell even wide-ranging public protests. The very size of the forces could, however, also create problems. If the Guards are locally deployed, they could develop associations with the local population and become unwilling to use force, especially deadly force, against them. Moreover, the National Guard forces could become fragmented over the use of deadly force against civilians.
Russian law enforcement has encountered this problem before, on several occasions. During a serious protest in Vladivostok in 2008, local law enforcement was unwilling to tackle the protestors and OMON (riot police) had to be brought in from European Russia. Similarly, local law enforcement in Moscow failed to quell a large protest in 2010, triggered by the murder of ethnic Russians by Caucasians, after which a huge crowd emerged in downtown Moscow and started to attack Caucasians and other people who did not look Slavic. The crowd could well have switched from attacking minorities to attacking the government. Since similar situations could emerge in future cases of mass protests, Kadyrovs Chechens could present a final and highly important reserve.
Kadyrovs forces the kadyrovsti number up to 30,000 and were also incorporated into the Guard. Some observers have assessed this as a heavy blow against Kadyrov, transforming his militia into a regular Guard unit, fully under Zolotovs command. Yet this is hardly the case the Chechen fighters are predominantly loyal to Kadyrov and cannot be deployed without his explicit approval. Needless to say, Kadyrovs consent is needed in order to use these forces to maintain relative peace and stability in Chechnya. It is not surprising that Kadyrov has actually been exempted from Putins drive to increase the Kremlins control over the bureaucracy and general population.
In 2016, Putin gave the Chechen leader his blessing by reappointing Kadyrov as head of Chechnya, while also requiring that Kadyrov should respect Russian law. However, these demands appear to have been primarily for public consumption as Putin clearly provided Kadyrov with a license to do whatever he wanted, even engaging in murder.
The investigation of Boris Nemtsovs murder on February 27, 2015, uncovered a trail leading to Chechnya. But Kadyrov has resolutely refused to cooperate, relying not only on his personal access to Putin but also on a particular connection with Zolotov. Putin made it clear to the FSB that Kadyrov was off-limits in the investigation. In return, Kadyrov was anxious to demonstrate his usefulness to Putin. On January 22, 2016, Kadyrov called out a huge rally in Grozny to support him. Kadyrov implicitly sent signals to the opposition, and even more so to the Kremlin, that he had thousands of supporters who would follow his lead in dealing with any opposition to Putin. Almost simultaneously with the demonstration, Kadyrovs chief of staff, Magomed Daudov, posted a picture on Instagram of the Chechen leader holding back a massive Caucasian shepherd dog named Tarzan. The dogs teeth itch, Daudov wrote. Hes barely restrained.
It appears that Putin was pleased with Kadyrovs pronouncement and considers Kadyrov and his Chechen warriors a reliable force that will protect the regime even if the National Guard fails to do so.
CONCLUSIONS: Russia'spoor economic performance, mostly due to low oil prices, is a concern for the Kremlin. Putin clearly worries that an economic breakdown could lead to widespread protests, although there are so far no signs of public unrest. Yet in response to this potential threat, Putin has decided to establish the National Guard and increase centralization of the state apparatus, which has entailed a bloodless purge or retirement of many of his longtime associates. Kadyrov is a clear exception and he still enjoys permission to actually do whatever he pleases. The reasons for this approach to Kadyrov are manifold. Putin indeed regards him as the only force capable of providing a modicum of security in Chechnya. But Kadyrov and his Chechen warriors loyal to Kadyrov and deeply alienated from the majority of Russians could also play the role of peculiar Janissaries for the Kremlin; a last resort in case of a mass upheaval in Russia and the National Guard's inability to quell it.
AUTHORS BIO: Dmitry Shlapentokh is Associate Professor of History, Indiana University at South Bend.
Image source: kremlin.ru accessed on March 3, 2017
OMGYes Is The Ultimate Guide For Teaching Men How To Give Women Orgasms
Trending News: This Is The Best Guide To Making Her Climax We've Ever Seen
The AskMen editorial team thoroughly researches & reviews the best gear, services and staples for life. AskMen may get paid if you click a link in this article and buy a product or service.
Why Is This Important?
Because who doesn't want to be a better lover?
Long Story Short
OMGYES is a website that wants to help anyone who cares to make sex more pleasurable for women. They've conducted tons of research and put together interactive how-to simulations to help make you a better lover.
Long Story
Theories about how to best help a woman reach orgasm are like buttholes everyone has one, but few people have ever seen theirs in action. Some people believe they have it all figured out, even if one set of "moves" couldn't possibly work for every woman. On the other end of the spectrum, people dismiss any attempt at research or discussion with "every woman's different;" the "#AllLivesMatter" of sex. But one website, called OMGYES, is bravely crashing through those barriers to help lovers all over better understand, communicate and eventually bring about the Big O and they're doing it in a decidedly high-tech way.
The basis for OMGYES' information is their research. They conducted in-depth interviews with 1,000 women, asking them things like how they discovered what works for them, as well as what techniques, specifically, get them off. Working with Indiana University and the renowned Kinsey Institute, they also surveyed a nationally representative sample of another 1,000 women. The results are in-depth and extensive. For instance, here's just some of the data they collected on multiple orgasms:
OMGYes
The resulting data is put in action on their website (they aren't an app, they stress) in what might be the greatest repository of clitoral orgasm knowledge ever created. Multiples, edging, hinting, rhythm, consistency it's all there, and more. Under each area of exploration, there are graphics (like the one above) explaining why the techniques work so well, as well as videos of the participating women demonstrating their techniques. It's not porn these women aren't actresses, and ambience is far more clinical than erotic but it's still explicit. These are women demonstrating sexual techniques, after all, but I'd be lying if I said it still wasn't pretty hot to watch. You'll definitely pay attention.
The real value, though, is in the "touchable" videos that let you practice the techniques. They used thousands of images of each woman's vagina to create incredibly realistic simulations that respond to the speed, pressure, location and rhythm of your fingers on a touchscreen device. As you follow the instructions and perform the techniques correctly, you're rewarded with (again, pretty hot) audio feedback.
RELATED: Become A Master In Women's Pleasure With Help From This Site
The amount of content available in what they call the first "season" is almost overwhelming, and that's kind of the point. Yes, all women are different, but as you see and practice real-world techniques and understand how they relate to the larger concepts, you'll eventually be equipped with a toolbox of sorts for the bedroom. The female orgasm has been a taboo subject for far too long, to the dismay of both women and men. These people are doing phenomenal work with regards to making sex a better experience for everyone.
The first season is available now, for a one-time price of $29. It may be the best $29 you'll ever spend.
Learn more at OMGYes.com
Own The Conversation
Ask The Big Question
Why are people so unwilling to talk about the female orgasm?
Disrupt Your Feed
If this doesn't help you become a better lover, nothing will.
Drop This Fact
65.5% of women say edging (the process of climbing to near-climax before backing off) builds stronger, more enjoyable orgasms.
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With technology becoming more and more a part of our lives, it was only a matter of time before it started to impact the way
Ben Muna Wilson Musa
The lead lawyer for the defense counsel of incarcerated leaders of banned Cameroon Anglophone Civil Society Consortium, CACSC, Barrister Bernard Muna has revealed that his clients have refused having contacts with any group fighting for the independence of Anglophone Cameroon.
The Guardian Post reports that the legal mind was speaking to Journalists in a Press conference held in Yaounde on Wednesday March 1, 2017 at the Muna Foundation. He said Barrister Agbor Balla, Dr Fontem Neba and Mancho Bibixy mandated him to tell reporters that what they have been clamoring for is respect of basic rights of Anglophones.
Barrister Benard Muna made it clear that the detained leaders of the outlawed Consortium are not in alliance with any other group including Southern Cameroon national Council, SCNS, Southern Cameroons Peoples organization, SCAPO, AMBAZONIA, Southern Cameroon Youth League, SCYL, and Movement of the restoration of the Independence of Southern Cameron among others.
The legal mind said Barrister Agbor Ball insisted that they have not authorized anybody to link the Consortium to any other association. Ben Muna said the stand of the leaders is important because there is a document already circulating that they have joined other groups to fight for the restoration of the state of Southern Cameroon.
The lead Counsel for the defense of the three leaders said they are not less than 150 lawyers both from Cameroon, Britain and elsewhere but just about 10 were allowed to speak during the first court session last February 13, 2017 at the Military Tribunal.
Barrister Agbor ball, Dr Neba Fontem and Mancho Bibixy will be in court this March 23, 2017.
By Wilson MUSA
Signal Centers at 109 North Germantown Road, will host a 60th anniversary and grand opening of its new Life Activity Building on Thursday, March 30, from 4:306:30 p.m. The event will celebrate Signal Centers history of providing services to help those with disabilities and other challenges strive to reach lifelong independence. The event will also showcase Signal Centers new facility which houses a variety of programs and learning opportunities.
Signal Centers is commemorating our 60th anniversary and we are opening our first ever new building, said CEO Donna McConnico. It has an amazing recreation center, an art studio, as well as a state of the art technology suite to house our 3D printer and other technology. So many people came together to provide opportunities for children and adults to build strong, healthy, happy futures."
The celebration will include: tours from 4:30-5 p.m., a welcome program from 5-5:45 p.m. and 'Speed Dating of Signal Centers programs from 5:45-6:30 p.m.
Everyone is welcome. Sweet refreshments and beverages will be provided.
For more information on Signal Centers, visit www.signalcenters.org.
Des journalistes sur le terrain Archives
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), a U.S. based independent press freedom advocacy organization, has tasked the government to give clarifications regarding the reported imprisonment of at least eight journalists arrested in the wake of the crisis rocking the countrys English speaking regions.
In an open letter to the Minister of Communication and government spokesperson, CPJ said the National Commission on Human Rights and Freedoms (NCHRF), had confirmed the detention of atleast five journalists as of February 20.
Since then we have heard reports of at least three other journalists jailed in Cameroon, CPJ said.
It reminded the communication minister that he claimed media practitioners in Cameroon can speak their mind" and there was no journalist was in prison in country.
You requested that we forward you a list of detained journalists. We did this privately the same day and repeatedly but unsuccessfully attempted to follow up with you directly, independent press freedom advocacy group reminded the minister citing a February 15 conversation.
CPJ said it is requesting the ministers assistance in reconciling his contention that no journalists are jailed in Cameroon with the conclusions of NCHRF, and request clarification on the location of Atia Tilarious Azohnwi of The Sun newspaper, Amos Fofung of The Guardian Post, Thomas Awah Junior, of the monthly Aghem Messenger magazine, Mfor Ndong of Voice of the Voiceless, Hans Achumba, of Jakiri Community Radio and Tim Finnian, publisher of Life Time newspaper among others.
It urged the minister to clarify the reasons for their detention, where they are held, and their current legal status.
The government spokesperson was yet to officially react to the letter which CPJ said was faxed to his office.
CPJ noted in the letter that it is aware the government has taken increasingly drastic steps to suppress the rights to transmit and receive information in Cameroon, particularly in predominantly Anglophone regions in recent months.
Media outlets have also been suspended, and journalists have been banned from practicing their craft, according to the CPJ.
Accord Cameroun-Nigeria sur le rapatriement des refugies - Yaounde, 02/03/2017 Ernest NFORMI
A tripartite agreement has been signed between the governments of Cameroon and Nigeria and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) for the voluntary repatriation of Nigerian refugees living in Cameroon.
Signed in Yaounde on Thursday March 2, 2017, the tripartite agreement is a legal framework setting out the modalities for the voluntary return of refugees to their country of origin in safety and dignity.
It comes after reports went wide that Cameroon is forcibly sending back Nigerian refugees who fled into the country due to the Boko Haram insurgency.
The Cameroon Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization who signed the agreement on behalf of his country promised that the government will continue to ensure protection of Nigerian refugees on its territory and will spare no efforts to help those who want to return to their homeland, in accordance with international agreements, Emmanuel Rene Sadi said.
UNHCR statistics show more than 85,000 Nigerian refugees who escaped the Boko Haram riot in Northeastern Nigeria currently live in the Far North region of Cameroon with 62,000 living in the Minawao refugee camp.
A study by the International Organization for Migration recorded more than 23,000 other refugees live in host communities and UNHCR believes there are thousands more others who have not been reached by aid agencies because of prevailing insecurity.
Meanwhile a survey by the UNHCR conducted in the Minawoa camp show 71 per cent of 9,300 Nigerian refugees interviewed expressed their intention to return as soon as the situation is favorable in their areas of origin.
Nigerias interior Minister who penned the agreement for his country said the deal highlights the importance of working to bring long lasting solution to the situation of Nigerian refugees in Cameroon.
We as a government remain committed to ensuring that we create the conducive atmosphere to facilitate the return of our citizens in safety and dignity and in line with international protection principles, Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau said.
Signatories all agreed to provide people wishing to return with clear information on the security and economic situation as well as access to basic services in their areas of return.
The deal stipulates among others that repatriation will only take place on the basis of the freely will of the refugees.
The UNHCR representative in Cameroon, Kouassi Lazare Etien said by signing the agreement, Cameroon and Nigeria have demonstrated a real desire to find a durable solution to the worries of refugees who are willing to return in safety and dignity with the support of the UNHCR.
He said refugees who will not voluntarily choose to return will not be forced to, and their refugee status will be maintained and recognized by the host country.
| BY Ricki Green |
One of Australias leading insurers, in collaboration with Ogilvy Melbourne, has launched AAMI SmartPlates, an innovative app giving L-platers an alternative to the traditional logbook.
AAMI SmartPlates allows young drivers to track their learning progress in real time and pinpoints skills that need practicing. It uses smartphone technology to live-track a learners hours, route choice, weather, road and traffic conditions, and then provides comprehensive feedback on progress.
AAMI is a Suncorp brand and the companys chief customer experience officer, Mark Reinke, said: AAMI research indicates young Australian drivers are most at risk of being involved in an accident. As its no secret that millennials use technology to manage almost every aspect of their lives, we thought it was time to rethink how we teach our kids to drive and bring the Learner Driver program into the digital world.
Says David Ponce de Leon, executive creative director, Ogilvy in Melbourne: This massive digital undertaking is in line with Ogilvys belief that any brand can say, but great brands do. AAMI SmartPlates brings AAMIs Not Very Insurancey brand platform to life by evolving the insurance company from one that simply covers accidents, to one that aims to prevent them from happening.
Its a big idea that proves AAMI is truly different and we believe it can make a real difference to road safety.
The AAMI SmartPlates powerful Road Block feature switches on whenever a Learner starts driving. On Android devices, Road Block silences all incoming calls, sending the caller an automated response informing them their friend is behind the wheel. On iOS devices, Learners receive a personalised message of discouragement when phone access is detected.
Learner drivers using the app will also be exposed to an evolving database of more than 40 driving tips, written by qualified driving instructors.
Supported by a cinema, digital, film, social and outdoor marketing campaign, AAMI SmartPlates launches this week. Its the latest in a series of digital initiatives from the brand following the successful launch of the AAMI Access app and the AAMI Lucky Club.
South Australia is the first state to accept AAMI SmartPlates as an official record of completed learner driver hours.
The AAMI SmartPlates App is available for free download now on the App Store and Google Play.
Agency Credits Ogilvy Melbourne
Creative Team
Executive Creative Director David Ponce de Leon
Senior Art Director Karsten Jurkschat
Senior Copywriter Alex Little
Account Service team
CEO David Fox
Head of Strategy Gavin McMillan
Managing Partner Michael McEwan
Group Account Director Belinda Danks-Woodley, Sarah Bailey
Account Director Belinda Bassingthwaighte
Account Manager Jessica McColl
Digital Development Team
National Head of Digital Jason Davey
Head of Digital Alistair Bruyns
Technical Director Josh Bondy, Tim Chapman
Senior Digital Project Manager Alex McNeilly
UX Director Gina Hughes
Design Team
Digital Art Director Mark Tompkins
Senior Digital Designer / UX Designer Rani Shabtai
Senior Designer Jesse Steinfort
Agency Credits Ogilvy PR
Public Relations Team
Associate Director Kate Aurel-Smith
Senior Account Director Bronte Tarn-Weir
Account Manager Sonia Heng
Account Executive April Gore
Client credits:
Project Team
Project Lead Lauren Shepherd
Project Manager Alok Pandit
Digital Self Service Specialist Andrew Muir
Technical Team Albert Kalaja, Kiran Abraham, Ngoc Nguyen, Michael La
Marketing Team
EGM Brand and Marketing Kristi Woolrych
Head of Brand and Marketing Tim Hernadi
EM, AAMI Brand and Marketing Michelle Martinis
| BY Ricki Green |
Exit director Tom Campbell and director of photography Sam Chiplin are holding a joint exhibition of collected works, opening tonight Friday, 3 March from 6pm 9pm.
The exhibition runs until Saturday 18 March at JPC Studios 51-57 Cubitt Street, Cremome, Melbourne.
Campbells work titled Cross Street is a collection of street photography captured during a week long heatwave amongst the community of a single block in a culturally rich area of Downtown Durban, South Africa.
As a director of photography, Chiplin has traveled around the world and while on his travels has collected an incredible body of street portraiture.
Together, this creative collaboration between two friends had become a document showing both similarities and wonderful differences between cultures.
11/6/2022
The Chattanooga Mocs men's basketball team is set to kick off the 2022-23 season as the squad hits the road to Charleston, S.C., to face the College of the Charleston on Monday evening inside ... more
"In a study of a cancer tumour growth, what happens is the vessels increase and the blood flow changes. We are able to plot the overall flow rate, which tells you how much energy the tumour is consuming."
"There's almost this shame that people have been tricked, and that leads to denial or the need to defend the offender because to acknowledge it occurred would be to recognise they had also been tricked."
The sources for the story are unclear. Linus Gitahi, CEO of brokerage AIB Capital, has written in a Nairobi newspaper, the Daily Nation, that the report exists and that it was written for the Communications Authority by the research company Analysys Mason.
Analysys Mason told Capacity: We are working on a study on Kenya but that report has not been finalised and nor have the recommendations. It is still a work in progress.
South Africas Business Day newspaper, which reported the recommendation is rather premature in its summary of recommendations and is inaccurate, said the Analysys Mason official.
Gitahi wrote that splitting off M-Pesa was included in a raft of measures supposed to level the telecommunications playing field and tame Safaricom, which has a 69% share of the mobile market.
He wrote that splitting off M-Pesa would have untold consequences, not just for the company but also for the economy of Kenya: about 79% of the countrys economy is processed through M-Pesa, a sum that was valued at $8.2 billion in the third quarter of 2016. M-Pesa is a critical nerve supporting the money transfer system. Ripping away M-Pesa from Safaricom would leave both in severe distress, wrote Gitahi.
The company is based in the UK but owned by South African IT consultancy Datatec. The Communications Authority told South Africas Business Day that it is reviewing the report before releasing it to the public. Vodafone owns 40% of Safaricom, but has kept the brand in Kenya rather than changing it to Vodacom, the brand it mainly uses in Africa.
As of last week, the company had yet to sign a deal with the US Department of Commerce (DoC), the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Treasury, but was granted a month-long reprieve from export restrictions.
According to reports from Reuters, ZTE is close to pleading guilty to the US criminal charges and will agree to pay hundreds of millions of dollars in penalties over the alleged breach, which was unveiled by the news agency in 2012.
Citing a source familiar with the matter, Reuters said ZTE will plead guilty to conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, along with other charge.
A guilty plea could result in a denial order, which would see ZTE barred from using US origin goods and technology, although any settlement is suspected to negate this.
This is a prospect ZTE has been facing since March 2016 when the DoC found evidence that the Chinese company was smuggling hardware and software to Iran through shell companies.
The embargo was extended in stages until 27 February, the first day of Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, when ZTE and the rest of the worlds mobile equipment makers met to sell their products to operators.
The latest reprieve allows ZTE to sell its equipment until 29 March, although with a deal understood to be just round the corner, the issue may be resolved before the need for any further extensions.
Last week ZTE announced quietly that former CEO Shi Lirong had finally left the companys board. Shi was one of the executives whose signatures were on the documents planning the conspiracy to export to Iran via shell companies.
He stepped down from the top position after the March 2016 revelations, but was still advising the board. ZTE paid tribute to Shis contribution to the company but made no mention of his role in the conspiracy.
Local students are a big part of the medical education program at the Advanced Center for Sleep Disorders on East Brainerd Road.
Dr Anuj Chandra, the medical director of ACSD, states One of the things we had in mind when the advanced center for sleep disorders first started was that we wanted to be extremely active in community outreach. Our goal is to educate the community about the diagnosis and treatment of all sleep disorders, not just sleep apnea.
ACSDs medical education program allows students who are in their transitional years before starting medical, nursing, or other health professional schools to gain valuable clinical experience and exposure.
The students not only learn about sleep disorders, but also how to deal with insurance companies, how to get medications and tests authorized, and how to thrive in a medical clinic environment. In addition to serving as the transitional home to many pre-med students and recent graduates, ACSD serves as a clinical rotation site for Lincoln Memorial University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harrogate, Tn.
Dr. Chandra said, Having our really bright UTC, Chattanooga State, and other area college pre-meds work for us for varying lengths of time has been an essential part of our program. When they go on to med school or nursing school, they take this whole body of knowledge with them. This experience provides them with the first-hand opportunity to see how patient-centered, evidence-based medicine is actually practiced says Dr Chandra.
Wittman Murphy, a Nashville native, spent his gap year before starting medical school working at ACSD as a sleep technician and later as Clinic Coordinator. He said, The experience (of working at ACSD) helped increase my knowledge in medical terminology, patient interaction and patient care, and I learned more about the business side of running a private practice than I would have learned in any other career opportunity offered to me. He attended UTC and majored in chemistry with a minor in biology. He is interested in pursuing orthopedic surgery after completing medical school at Lincoln Memorial University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Nathan Ballard, a fellow UTC graduate, also stated, Working here has given me the opportunity to gain invaluable patient care experience. It has also allowed me to learn a great deal about a medical specialty I had known very little about, sleep medicine. A Memphis native, he played lacrosse for UTC and graduated magna cum laude with a degree in pre-professional biology. He started working at ACSD as a sleep technician and quickly received praise from patients for his excellent bedside manner, it was stated. He now works as a clinic technician during the daytime. He will be receiving an Air Force Scholarship to attend medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton, Fla., after which he plans on practicing trauma surgery .
Jasbir Kaur, a Chattanooga native, has spent the last few summers volunteering and shadowing at ACSD, and now works full time as clinic coordinator. She states, It is an incredible privilege to be able to work at ACSD. Being able to be a part of a team that works together to provide the best care possible for a patient continues to fuel my passion for medicine and has allowed me to gain confidence in my ability as a future physician. She graduated from Boyd Buchanan School and attended Mercer University in Macon, Ga. She graduated magna cum laude as a member of the Honors Program with majors in biology and Latin and minors in chemistry and art. She is still undecided in which field of medicine she will practice, but will be attending New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine in Jonesboro, Ark.
Wittmann, Nathan and Jasbir have all been accepted into medical schools around the country.
Dr Chandra states, We are very proud of all three of our pre-med students even though it is quite hard to replace them every year when they get trained and they move on to bigger and better things, but it's something we have been doing and we are happy and honored that we are able to do.
QUOTES
We are extremely proud of all of 3 our pre-med students who have been with us in the past year and that all three have been accepted into medical school. They have just been really a huge asset to us. One of the things we had, when the advanced center for sleep disorders first started was we really wanted to be extremely active in community outreach to educate the whole community regarding how important diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders were, not just only sleep apnea. Having our really bright UTC, Chatt State, and other area college pre-meds work for us for varying lengths of time has been an essential part because when they go on to med school or nursing school they take this whole body of knowledge with them and even to date till recently there was not much emphasis of sleep disorder in med school and it also provides them with the first hand opportunity of seeing how medicine is actually practiced, that it is a lot more involved in terms of dealing with insurance companies, getting medicines authorized, getting tests authorized, that is just not as simple as seeing a patient and taking care of them, that there is a lot more that goes into the process especially with EMR. So they get a first hand experience of how it is to work in actual life in a medical practice. I think that it is really valuable exposure so we are very proud even though it is quite hard when they get trained and they move on bigger and better things to replace them every year and also bring the new people up to speed, but its something we have been doing and we are happy that we are able to do (DR C)
I dont believe that I could have spent my gap year in a more productive way than through finding a job at ACSD. The experience helped to increase my knowledge in medical terminology, patient interaction and patient care, and I learned more about the business side of running a private practice than I would have learned in any other career opportunity offered to me. I am going into medical school with a better understanding the medical field and with more confidence than I would have ever imagined before my time at ACSD (WITT)
Working at ACSD has been a great way to spend my gap year before going into medical school. Working here has given me the opportunity to gain invaluable patient care experience. It has also allowed me to learn a great deal about a medical specialty I had known very little about, sleep medicine. My time at ACSD has me going into medical school confident and more prepared than ever to tackle medical school (NATE)
Southern Champion Tray will celebrate 90 years in business on Wednesday, March 8. All team members from its Chattanooga Compress Street corporate offices and production facility and its Amnicola Highway distribution center and trucking operations will gather for a group picture and refreshments. Team members at Southern Champion Trays Mansfield, Tx. offices and production facility will also celebrate the occasion.
"Southern Champion Tray is recognizing this milestone as a way to acknowledge the incredible blessing it has been being part of the Chattanooga community and surrounding areas. This area is the home to the more than 500 individuals who come together each day to meet the needs of Southern Champion Trays valued customers," officials said.
Founded in 1927 as a subsidiary of an Ohio-based company to manufacture paperboard food trays, the company survived the Great Depression and World War II, going independent in 1947 under new majority owner, Milt Zeiser. Today, third generation family members John and Bruce Zeiser head the company following the leadership of their father, Chuck Zeiser, who stepped down as CEO in 1993.
"For 90 years, Southern Champion Tray has been manufacturing and distributing quality bakery, food service and catering paperboard and corrugated packaging, food and drink carriers and molded fiber tableware. Markets served include bakery, foodservice, frozen foods, supermarket, institutional, medical, pharmaceutical, personal care, cosmetic, retail, electronics, and more," officials said.
FourBridges Capital Advisors has been recognized as one of the top firms in the U.S. specializing in selling privately owned businesses.
FourBridges is the only firm headquartered in Tennessee to make the Axial Advisor 100 list, which features "the buysides most referred middle market banks and advisory firms." Axial's list is based on a nationwide survey that asked more than 1,000 private equity firms, strategic acquirers and family offices to name the advisors they trusted most when transacting in the middle market.
"We help our clients sell their businesses to sophisticated buyers, so we understand how to effectively translate the value of 'main street' companies to private equity firms and large strategic acquirers." said Andy Stockett, managing director of FourBridges.
Based in Chattanooga, FourBridges represents business owners who are thinking about selling their company, making an acquisition, or refinancing. The firm has specialized in structuring transactions where a privately held business can be sold to a large publicly traded corporation, a private equity fund or in several cases, international conglomerates.
An online platform and capital market, Axial is used by more than 11,000 firms to identify, connect to, and close M&A and growth financing deals. The Axial network serves CEOs, lenders, private equity firms, investment bankers and M&A advisors.
Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy (CGLA) will host the 8th Annual Odyssey Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, March 15, at the Chattanooga Convention Center. Presented by First Tennessee Bank, the event is CGLAs signature fundraiser and begins at 10:30 a.m. with a silent auction. The luncheon and program commence at 11:30 a.m.Tickets are $65 per person.
This year Wintley Phipps, a pastor, world--renowned vocalist, motivational speaker, and education activist, will deliver the Odyssey 2017 keynote address. He is the founder, president, and CEO of the U.S. Dream Academy, a national afterschool program focused on breaking the cycle of intergenerational incarceration by giving children the skills and vision necessary to lead productive and fulfilling lives. Twice nominated for a Grammy Award, Mr. Phipps is the recipient of numerous service awards, most notably receiving the Use Your Life honor from the Oprah Winfrey Angel Network and named Philanthropist of the Year from the National Center for Black Philanthropy.
As noted by Dr. Elaine Swafford, CGLAs executive director, Odyssey is not only an annual fundraiser but also a celebration of student achievement. With more than 700 guests attending, Odyssey is a perfect time to congratulate and recognize young women who are exhibiting the attributes associated with academic and personal success, said Dr. Swafford. Our Rising Star and Shining Star awards spotlight students who are conscientious and disciplined; creative and insightful; eager and curious.
Event chairs for Odyssey 2017 are Kelly and Ted Alling and Jo Ann Yates. According to Donna Coleman, director of development at CGLA, these individuals are pivotal to sustaining CGLAs mission. Kelly and Ted Alling and Jo Ann Yates are concerned citizens who understand that quality education is essential to the health of a community. We are fortunate to have their endorsement and support.
Kelly and Ted Alling are the co--founders of Chattanooga Prep, an all--boys public charter school slated to open in 2018. We are ardent supporters of CGLA because Dr. Swafford and the faculty are redefining what is possible in public education, said Ms. Alling. CGLA demonstrates that children from all backgrounds can succeed in college and life.
Ted Alling expresses the same passion as his wife. Access to quality education is essential to escaping poverty, yet poverty is a barrier to accessing quality education. Research has consistently shown that schools offering a comprehensive, supportive environment can dramatically impacting the lives of disadvantaged youth, and CGLA is changing the lives of deserving young women in Chattanooga.
Preparing a diverse community of girls for a technologically - sophisticated and globally -competitive world requires excellent instruction fortified by earnest commitment and high expectations, said Jo Ann Yates, a long-time supporter and current CGLA board member. The CGLA faculty is always seeking new paths through which they can spark creativity and strengthen critical thinking. They are intent on building responsible, determined learners who can tackle the complex issues of today and frame the exciting questions of tomorrow.
Money raised from Odyssey supports the schools daily operation, which includes funding CGLAs STEAM centered academic program. STEAM is an approach that invites students to explore the connections between science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics. The STEAM process guides students through inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. Students take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problem--solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process. STEAM prepares CGLA girls for life in the 21st century.
First Tennessee Bank is the presenting sponsor of the 8th Annual Odyssey Awards Luncheon. Other major sponsors include Roof Curb Systems in Trenton, GA; Deborah and Mitch Everhart; Kristin and Gordon Davenport; Mustang Leadership Partners; Pinnacle Financial; SunTrust; Marion and Jim Steffner; Unum; Jo Ann Yates; Kelly and Ted Alling; Tennessee American Water; Thomas Bible Law; Priscilla McLaughlin, and Patten and Patten, Inc.
For more information, contact Donna Coleman, Director of Development, at 423 618-5362 or donnacoleman@cglaonline.com or visit cglaonline.com.
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.
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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...
Cleveland State Community College and the Tennessee Career Center are sponsoring Career Expo 2017 on Wednesday, March 22 from 10 a.m. 1 p.m. in the L. Quentin Lane Gymnasium on CSCCs main campus.
The Career Expo will provide students, graduates, and community members with an excellent opportunity to explore the different career options in our area and network with employers from companies like Denso, Coca-Cola, and USDA Forest Services - Cherokee National Forest.
Participants will receive valuable information and make contacts that could be very beneficial in obtaining a job.
For those graduates who plan on pursuing a four-year degree, there will be approximately 20 colleges and universities on hand ready to discuss transfer options with you.
Participants will be able to update their resumes, practice their elevator speeches, and prepare to make contacts with employers and colleges, stated Elizabeth Lambdin, Career Planning Coordinator. We hope everyone will take advantage of this great opportunity and join us for the Career Expo 2017!
For more information on this event or to register, visit the website at mycs.cc/expo2017 or contact Lambdin at (423) 473-2288.
Southeast Tennessee Veterans Coalition and Friends of the Festival have teamed up with Aspen Dentals MouthMobile to provide free dental care to veterans. The MouthMobile will arrive in Chattanooga at Rosss Landing on Thursday, March 16. Chattanooga is one of 34-stops that the MouthMobile is making across the country. Appointment times are required; veterans may call Bill Chapman at 423-756-2212 or email bill.setnvetcoal@gmail.com.
The MouthMobile is Aspen Dentals 42 foot long dental office on wheels. It travels state to state giving veterans the dental care they need for a healthy mouth at no cost. Since 2014, Aspen Dental practices across the country have donated over $7.5 million in dentistry and helped more than 12,000 veterans as part of the Healthy Mouth Movement. The Healthy Mouth Movement includes both the MouthMobile and a nationwide day of service, when Aspen Dental practices across the country open their doors on a designated Saturday to provide free care to veterans.
I am honored to be a part of giving back to our veteransI feel like it is a small gesture to give them free dental work one day a year when they risk their lives for me and my family. I am proud and blessed to be an American and am forever indebted to our military men and women I am excited and looking forward to serving as many veterans as possible on the Aspen Dental MouthMobile and truly believe in what Aspen Dental is doing for America, said Dr. Ashley Boling who is the Aspen Dental doctor that will provide care on the MouthMobile in Chattanooga.
As a veteran and some 120 days before the second anniversary of July 16, 2015, with Chattanooga emotions so patriotic, the Veterans Coalition is most pleased to be a part of providing a service so needed by veterans, said retired U. S. Navy Captain Mickey McCamish, Coalition Chairman.
What an honor for Friends of the Festival at the site that we produced Chattanooga Unite, brought LST 325 and the Vietnam War Veterans Memorial Wall to now host the Aspen Dental MouthMobile for veterans said Chip Baker, Executive Director, and Friends of the Festival.
In a bid to battle its air pollution, the city of Beijing could convert its entire taxi fleet from petrol-powered cars to electric vehicles.
That is the goal of a draft work program on air pollution control for Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei and surrounding areas this year in a move which could cost approximately 9 billion yuan ($1.3 billion), reports National Business Daily.
There are almost 70,000 petrol taxis in Beijing and the plan says that alongside replacing all the existing taxis with EVs, all new taxis to hit the streets must be electric.
While it is currently unclear if and when this draft will be passed as law, the city will also require huge investments in its charging infrastructure to support an additional 70,000 EVs on the streets. It is reported that when Beijing added 200 electric vehicles to its taxi fleet in 2014, some drivers had to wait for up to six hours at charging stations.
Physicists at the University of California assert that approximately 1.6 million people die in China because of polluted air every year.
PHOTO GALLERY
VW released the full details for the new, bigger Allspace version of the Tiguan, destined for Europe as well as a Geneva premiere.
The new VW Tiguan Allspace is set to occupy the space between the normal Tiguan and the Touareg in the European market (no Atlas for them yet), offering seating for up to seven passengers and a bigger boot.
One of the key differences is the 109mm (4.3 in) longer wheelbase and the 215mm (8.5 in) longer body, allowing VW to install a set of folding seats behind the second row, with the luggage capacity increased by 145lt to a total of 760lt when these are not in use. Passengers in the second row now have 54mm (2.1 in) of extra knee room as well.
Just like the regular Tiguan, the Allspace will be offered with on-road and off-road versions of the front end, with the latter getting an optional off-road package along with special underbody protection improving the models approach angle by 7 degrees.
The new VW Tiguan Allspace will also offer more kit as standard, including roof rails, the Composition Color Media System as well as full LED headlights and keyless access in the Highline trim level. In addition, VW will also offer their fresh 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system with gesture control as an option.
Customers will be able to choose between six powerplants, with the Tiguan Allspace to be offered in both FWD and AWD configurations. The petrol range consists of a 147hp (150PS) 1.4-litre TSI and a 2.0-litre TSI with either 177hp (180PS) or 216hp (220PS).
As for the diesel units, VW will offer its popular 2.0-litre TDI with either 148hp (150PS), 187hp (190PS) or with a range-topping 236hp (240PS). All diesel engines come equipped with an SCR catalytic converter and a 12-litre AdBlue tank which helps reducing the nitrogen oxide emissions. Petrol and diesel models with 177hp or more come equipped with VWs 4Motion all-wheel drive system and a DSG transmission as standard.
The new VW Tiguan Allspace also offers a wide range of driver assistance systems, including Traffic Jam Assist with stop-and-go functionality, City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, Trailer Assist and more.
VW will start taking orders for the Tiguan Allspace this May, with the first deliveries expected in September. Prices will start from around 30,000 ($31,600 in current exchange rates).
PHOTO GALLERY
Ford has started talks to cut costs at its Bridgend engine factory in the UK, putting at risk more than 1,100 jobs as the company tries to shield itself from the slowing growth rates in Europe and the Brexit repercussions.
The Blue Ovals engine factory, which currently makes the four-cylinder EcoBoost units, is producing enough engines to guarantee the current employment levels, but the company says its expecting demand to fall after the latest three-cylinder EcoBoost unit hits the market, making a reduction in staff a possibility.
A Ford spokesman told Bloomberg that no job cuts are planned at the moment, but the companys review on its staffing beyond 2020 is not an unusual cycle in the industry.
It goes without saying, that in order to attract new business, the Bridgend operation would need to ensure its competitiveness, and addressing some of the current concerns relating to the plants efficiency would be high on the agenda, Ford said in a statement.
The company also said that it will work with the unions to find future business opportunities for the plant, which could be left with 600 employees if the job cuts take place.
PHOTO GALLERY
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is once again partnering with the Tennessee Fur Harvesters for the 2017 free trapper training camp to be held at the Hiwassee Refuge on March 17-19.
This three-day camp is packed full of great information for those interested in learning about the craft of fur taking. Participants will utilize live trap lines and learn about trap modification, set making, snaring and fur handling skills. Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be provided on Saturday and camping is available.
John Daniel, the event coordinator said, Weve had a packed house in years past. We really enjoy the weekend and look forward to another great year. The Tennessee Fur Harvesters is dedicated to preserving the heritage of trapping and the management of Tennessees furbearers. They have several events throughout the year, including a fur sale.
Contact John Daniel to register for the training camp or for more information on fur trapping, 423 595-0986 or johndanielgc@gmail.com.
Just a few days before the Geneva Motor Show opens on March 7, what appear to be images of the final production version of the 2018 Honda Civic Type R made their appearance on the web.
The two photos showing the front and rear ends of the Civic Type R look almost identical to the near-production concept that has been making the auto show rounds for the better half of last year, bar a few minor changes.
These include the oh-so Honda (regular) white paint job instead of the studys brushed steel color scheme, the stainless center exhaust pipe that was painted red on the concept, and possibly, black plastic instead of carbon fiber spoiler bits, though, were not sure about the latter due to the low-resolution nature of these photos.
But otherwise, it looks just as Fast & Furious as the concept, from the spoilers and hood scoop right up to the massive rear wing and triple exhaust outlets.
Honda has confirmed that it will feature a newer version of its 2.0-liter VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 305hp in the current model, but it has kept technical details close to its chest. Carscoops understands that the newer model might get a power bump, while retaining its front-wheel drive setup.
Honda has said that, whereas the outgoing Type R was an afterthought for the Civic series, the new model was designed in from the start of the program, claiming that this will massively benefit its driving dynamics.
Production of the new Civic Type R will start in summer 2017 at Hondas UK plant in Swindon, with the hot hatch to be exported across Europe and to other markets around the world, including Japan and the US, marking the first time that any Honda-badged Type R has been officially sold in the States.
Photo Gallery
If you want to know just how well your heavily-tuned muscle car can compete with a relatively stock supercar, the Corvette Z06 makes a lot of sense as an opponent.
This showdown took place at Shifts3ctors California Airstrip Attack event in Coalinga, CA, and while the Z06 is believed to be close to stock, the Shelby Mustang GT350 is anything but.
In fact, it features ARH long tubes, OEM mufflers, a Fore fuel system and runs on E85. As for power output, the Cordes Performance Racing-built machine is said to put down no fewer than 923 RWHP, which is just bonkers.
Whats interesting though is the fact that this drag race featured a standing start, which rarely works out in favor of RWD muscle cars with hypercar-levels of power. On top of that, the Corvette Z06 is deceptively quick thanks to 650 HP & 650 lb-ft (881 Nm) coming from its 6.2-liter V8 engine. Its even been clocked it at 2.95 seconds as far as 0-60 is concerned.
Still, watch what happens when this juiced up GT350 starts hitting its stride.
VIDEO
Following on from reports on Thursday that said Frances PSA Group was closing in on acquiring Opel from General Motors, two people with knowledge of the plan told Reuters that the board of PSA approved the deal on Friday, with an announcement planned for Monday.
Both GM and PSA, which owns the Peugeot and Citroen brands, declined to comment.
The two companies finalized the deal after several months of discussions and negotiations, apparently overcoming differences on around $10 billion in pension liabilities at GMs European arm that includes Opel and Vauxhall, and which has been losing money for 16 years straight. The last time it recorded any profit was in 1999, having amassed more than $20 billion in losses since.
Another sticking point was GMs demands that a PSA-owned Opel be barred from competing against its own Chevrolet lineup in China and other overseas markets, according to the Reuters source, who said it was resolved after the American company bundled the issue together with the pension liabilities offering PSA more than the initial proposal of $1 billion to $2 billion to fund the pension plans.
Regardless of the details, PSA will have its work cut out with Opel that not only has many products competing with its own brands, but also comes with low profit margins making cars in countries with high labor costs, including Germany, the UK and Spain, as well as a surplus of production.
Nevertheless, in a statement last week, PSA boss Carlos Tavares said he believes the tie up will offer opportunity to create a European car champion with annual sales of over 5 million units. Furthermore, French sources have claimed that the acquisition of Opel can offer the group savings of up to 2 billion (around $2.1 billion).
Video
PSA Group is edging ever closer to purchasing Opel from General Motors in a move which will see PSA become Europes second-largest automaker.
Bloomberg reports that the two companies will negotiate throughout the weekend to reach and announce a deal on Monday. As further evidence that the deal is progressing, a tentatively-scheduled meeting between European labor union officials and PSA management has been set for next week.
PSAs chief executive Carlos Tavares is confident that he can create a restructuring plan to return Opel and Vauxhall to profitability and one that will allow Opel to serve as the companys premium German alternative to its solely French brands.
Before a deal can be reached, a few key issues need to be resolved. For one, a negotiating point will revolve around how PSA can achieve 2 billion euros ($2.1 billion) in savings from the deal as well as how the pension plan for Opel retirees (currently underfunded by $9 billion) will be managed.
PHOTO GALLERY
A driver learned first-hand the hazards of winter driving, after losing control of his car and ended up in the ditch.
The video begins just as the driver was overtaking a Yaris. Nothing worrisome far, but just as the car was accelerating, the dry asphalt ended, and a thin layer of ice and snow made maneuvering all the more difficult and hazardous.
Almost instantly, the driver can be seen losing control and trying to regain it, as the vehicle starts wobbling left and right. Eventually, it can be seen heading towards the side of the road, head into a deep snow bank that caused it to flip onto its side. Good thing there was no one coming on the opposite side, as a head-on collision would have been unavoidable.
We cant tell you where it happened with certainty, but the voice coming from the radio inside the car whose dash-mounted camera suggest it might have been Russia..
VIDEO
Photo: CTV
Backcountry enthusiasts are being warned avalanche season is far from over.
In fact, March is the deadliest month for avalanche fatalities and Avalanche Canada is focusing its safety message on Albertas snowmobilers.
Last year, 15 people died in avalanches, 12 of whom were snowmobilers. As well, over the past five years, 45 people were killed in avalanches; 24 of them while snowmobiling.
All of the snowmobiling accidents over the past five years occurred in B.C. while two-thirds of the victims were Alberta residents.
Of those Alberta residents, 73 per cent were from communities within 150 km of Edmonton.
All of the victims were male.
Unlike other user groups, snowmobiling avalanche fatalities are showing a clear pattern, said Gilles Valade, executive director of Avalanche Canada. When we see such a cluster in terms of place of residence, it raises a concern that our safety messages arent reaching the people who clearly need it most.
Far too often we see terrain choices that simply do not fit the conditions, said Curtis Pawliuk, general manager of the Valemount and Area Recreation District, a popular snowmobiling destination for Alberta riders. These people are getting lucky. While the snowmobile community has come a long way, we need to start seeing greater buy-in and respect for the hazards of the backcountry."
An avalanche skills training course is the first step for anyone recreating in the backcountry, said Valade. More than 8,000 people take this training each season. Unfortunately, less than 15 per cent of these students are snowmobilers. Convincing more sledders to take this training where they will learn safe travel techniques for avalanche terrain and how to self-rescue is a significant goal for Avalanche Canada.
Everyone in a backcountry party needs to have an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel.
Current avalanche conditions can be found online.
Photo: Contributed
Penticton RCMP have been kept busy with a rash of crimes in the Apex Mountain area.
Cpl. Don Wrigglesworth said there have been a number of incidents over the past few days.
They are:
March 1
At 2:35 a.m., police received a report of an alarm at a residence on The Circle. When they arrived, officers found the front door had been kicked in. The owner of the seasonal residence was out of town at the time.
At 6 a.m., the owner of the pickup truck that had been entered the previous night on Apex Mountain Road called to report that his 2014 grey Silverado was now missing. The canopy to the truck was found abandoned on White Lake Road later in the day.
At 8:55 a.m., a report was received that a resident of The Circle had their unlocked vehicle rummaged through overnight. Police found a neighbouring home had damage to the front door, and a Keurig coffee maker and a Bose speaker were missing.
At 11:20 a.m., police received a report of a break and enter to a residence in the 1400 block of Apex Mountain Road. The home was ransacked with a television and stereo missing. The owner is out of the country and the matter is still under investigation.
A report was received that a vehicle had the passenger door pried open with a crowbar style tool and a wallet was stolen from within.
At 2:35 p.m., the Penticton Targeted Enforcement Unit spotted a grey Silverado pickup truck exiting the Sun Leisure Mobile Home Park at 3999 Skaha Lake Road with alleged property crime suspects inside.
The vehicle appeared to take off at a high rate of speed and was safely pulled over by First Nations Police Const. Mike Rampone near the PIB Band Hall, said Wrigglesworth. The truck was the same one reported stolen overnight from Apex Mountain Road and it had plates on it that were believed to be stolen from a Brandon Avenue address.
Identification was also found that had been stolen with wallets and credit cards from a vehicle on Clearview Crescent on Feb. 28. The 50-year-old male driver will appear in court today on charges of theft, possession of stolen property and dangerous driving.
Police received additional reports of vehicle burglaries and thefts from the 1200 block of Apex Mountain Rd. on Feb. 28.
The Penticton RCMP is seeking the publics assistance in preventing crime by ensuring your vehicle is locked and valuables are not left in parked vehicles, said Wrigglesworth. If you have any information that can further assist the investigators on any of the above noted crime, please contact Const. Dave Dixon at 250-492-4300 or Crimestoppers.
Photo: File photo
UPDATE: 5:30 p.m.
The man who organized a brutal sucker punch that put a young man in a coma was convicted of aggravated assault, Thursday in Kelowna. The nightclub bouncer who facilitated the vicious blow was convicted of assault.
The two-week trial of Steven Kaplan and Kyle O'Brien wrapped up last week, while the man who actually threw the devastating punch was sentenced to five years last May.
On the evening of Sept. 6, 2014, Steven Kaplan was involved in two fights with Michael Martin and a friend, outside the Liquid Zoo nightclub.
Following that, Martin and his friends made their way to Sapphire Nightclub, one block away.
Apparently not satisfied, Kaplan, now with the assistance of the much larger Steven Kollie, showed up at Sapphire and spoke with the two bouncers outside, one of whom was O'Brien.
Surveillance video shows O'Brien entering the club, finding Martin, and dragging him back outside in a chokehold, Martin's feet swinging above the ground.
Kaplan has a few words with Martin outside, before walking back to Kollie, who was in a nearby alley. As he walks away, Kaplan gestures to his eyes to O'Brien in a watch him manner.
After finding Kollie, Kaplan returns and engages Martin in conversation. Kollie walks towards the two men several seconds later, and as the large man approaches, Kaplan points to Martin. Seconds later, Kollie connects a thunderous left hand to Martin's face, making him unconscious as he falls to the pavement, according to Justice Allan Betton.
Martin fractured his skull on the pavement, putting him in a coma for several days and leaving him with brain damage.
During Thursday's judgment, Betton found that Kaplan was intent on furthering the confrontation with Mr. Martin following the initial fights and enlisted the help of Kollie in his altercation with the 130-pound Martin.
His actions throughout were deliberate and appeared calculated, Betton said of Kaplan.
Betton also found that O'Brien removed Martin from the bar at the request of Kaplan and Kollie, knowing the two men planned to assault Martin.
Betton ruled that O'Brien could not foresee the bodily harm that Kollie would cause Martin, and therefore convicted him of assault rather than aggravated assault.
A pre-sentence report has been ordered for both guilty men. Counsel will meet with Betton on March 27 to make sure the reports have been completed and to schedule a sentencing date.
The Supreme Court of Canada found last summer that Supreme Court trials should take no longer than 30 months from when charges were initially laid.
Kaplan's 30 months is up on April 20, which puts pressure on the timeliness of sentencing. If a trial takes longer than 30 months, an accused can apply to have the charges dismissed.
ORIGINAL: 3 p.m.
Two men have been found guilty over a vicious assault at Sapphire Nightclub in Kelowna.
Steven Kaplan was found guilty of aggravated assault after weeks of trial for the September 2014 incident, in which Michael Martin was sucker punched, knocking him out, fracturing his skull, putting him in a coma for two weeks and causing brain damage.
Kaplan's co-accused, Kyle O'Brien, was found guilty of assault, because the judge couldn't find that he had any foresight of bodily harm, despite knowing an assault would occur.
Kaplan had been banned from most bars in town, but spoke to O'Brien, who shortly thereafter dragged Martin out in a chokehold.
Minutes later, Steven Kollie approached the man, punching Martin and walking away, with neither Kaplan nor O'Brien in pursuit.
Kollie was given a five-year sentence last May after being found guilty of aggravated assault.
As this is a developing story, Castanet will update with more details soon.
with files from Nich Johansen
Photo: The Canadian Press
Two Kelowna men are facing charges related to trafficking the deadly opioid fentanyl.
Ontario Provincial Police say two men were arrested by officers conducting a traffic stop on Highway 11 on Wednesday in Northern Ontario.
Police allegedly seized various types of controlled substances as well as drug paraphernalia.
Dillan Butler, 27, and 25-year-old Mitchell Spurrell both of Kelowna face charges that include possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking and possession of fentanyl.
They're also charged with possession of more than three kilograms of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking and obstructing a peace officer.
They are being held in custody and are to appear in court on the allegations on Friday in Cochrane, Ont.
Study: Crime Has Dropped Near The 606 More Than In Other, Similar Areas
By Stephen Gossett in News on Mar 2, 2017 8:56PM
The 606. Photo by Braden Nesin/Chicagoist
Ever since its inception, The 606 trail has been greeted as a mixed blessing. It's a massively popular piece of alternative-transportation infrastructure that brings out communities and beautifies the neighborhoods it reaches. It's also been criticized for sparking gentrification and sending housing prices along its West Side stretch skyrocketing.
A new study adds a major check mark to the positive column: crime rates of several kinds have declined in areas along the trail since its inception, according to researchers.
Researchers took a look at crime rates from the time before The 606 opened (between June and November, 2011) and compared them to stats from the same timeframe in 2015, when the bike-and-walk trail debuted. Neighborhoods along the trail saw a decline in a variety of crimes over that period compared with neighborhoods with the same socioeconomics, according to a study called "Examining the Impacts of an Urban Greenway on Crime in Chicago," published in February in Environment and Behavior.
Rates of violent, property and disorderly crime all fell at a faster rate in neighborhoods along The 606 than in similar neighborhoods nearby, lead author Brandon Harris, a Chicago resident and onetime Chicago Park District intern, said in a release. The decrease was largest in lower-income neighborhoods along the western part of the trail.
Upticks in residential and business activity; foot traffic; and "a greater sense of community" prompted by the trail could all be contributing factors to the downtick, according to co-author Lincoln Larson.
Still, positive impact against crime only extended so far. When looking at crime rates within a half-mile of the trail, researchers found that, while property crime fell compared to similar neighborhoods within the study's timeframe; but there was no significant drop in violent or disorderly-crime rates.
Indeed, a pattern of armed robberies along the popular rail-to-trail conversion last fall prompted a community alert from the Chicago Police Department.
Despite the positive findings, researchers further cautioned against a magic-bullet interpretation of the study. Any park and green public space has to be properly funded and maintained to remain viable and successful, said co-author Scott Ogletree. Its not just the presence of parks that matters. Design and programming for parks is also critical, especially considering some of the troubling crime trends in Chicago over the past year," he said. If a trail is chartered through heavily minority communities, cities have to take extra precaution to make sure those communities feel invested in such ventures, the researchers noted.
It's something developers and planners will have to keep foremost in mind amid ambitious plans like the riverfront trail proposal and Pilsen's Paseo.
[H/T DNAinfo]
Photo: HikingAddiction
Are you addicted to hiking, but don't know anyone to tackle the climb with you? HikingAddiction has got you covered.
HikingAddiction is a volunteer run Kelowna organization aimed to help people explore the gems of the Okanagan.
HikingAddiction was born from a need for an outdoor activity group when founder Josh Hoggan first moved to Kelowna back in 2011. Over the past six years, Hoggan has brought on over 4,000 members, with anywhere between 10 to 60 individuals participating per hike.
"Our group is maintained by a small number of regular volunteers, but is very active outside of official events, as all members are welcome to host hikes and contribute in any way," said Hoggan.
More information can be found at HikingAddiction.
Photo: CTV Jarrod Bacon, right.
One of the three Bacon brothers is back in the community after being convicted of conspiracy to traffic cocaine in 2012, despite his own objections.
Jarrod Bacon was sentenced to 14 years in jail in 2012, minus time served, which put him up for statutory release this February.
Bacon has been transferred to a halfway house to serve out the rest of his sentence, despite him arguing it will put him in danger.
Parole Board documents show Bacon objected to the move, but the board was not convinced.
You were involved in street gangs and organized crime while you were a member of the Red Scorpions and the Bacon Brothers, board member Michel Lalonde said in the ruling. At that time, you were known to have considerable influence on the gang environment, and violence is implicitly linked to this environment."
In his argument for not being moved to the halfway house, Bacon noted his eldest brother, Jonathan, was killed in a mid-day shooting in Kelowna in 2011.
A Kelowna judge, meanwhile, decided Thursday that evidence found on a gang member's BlackBerry phone would be admissible in two upcoming gang-related trials, including Jason McBride's, who is accused of killing Jonathan Bacon.
Jarrod Bacon was released on several conditions, including avoiding anyone involved in drugs or crime, but the parole board documents noted he has kept gang connections while incarcerated.
"Security information about your associates indicates that you kept yourself in a position of influence. Obviously, this raises serious doubts about your genuine desire to rehabilitate yourself and lead a life free from criminality," the parole documents state.
The third Bacon brother, Jamie, is charged with first-degree murder in the 2007 Surrey Six killings, and is currently awaiting trial.
with files from CTV Vancouver
Photo: Castanet Staff An ambulance tends to one of the victims of the Aug. 14, 2011 Jonathan Bacon shooting outside the Delta Grand Hotel.
The Crown will be allowed to use emails found on a gang member's cell phone as evidence in two gang-related murder trials, including the trial for the 2011 broad-daylight murder of Jonathan Bacon in Kelowna.
The defence for Jason McBride and Cory Vallee, two men facing separate first-degree murder charges for gang-related killings, applied to have evidence found on Amir Eghtesad's Blackberry ruled inadmissible, claiming the warrant to search the phone violated the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Jason McBride, dressed in a prison-issued red sweater, viewed the proceedings from a video screen in the Kelowna courtroom Thursday afternoon.
The phone in question was seized when Eghtesad, a United Nations gang member, was arrested in August 2011, but the contents of the phone weren't recovered until April 2014 thanks to technological developments that allowed decryption of the phone's security features.
Eghtesad was arrested on charges of conspiracy to murder Jonathan Bacon, three days before the Bacon brother was killed. He was given a seven-year sentence after pleading guilty in 2014.
McBride is charged, along with two other co-accused, of murdering Jonathan Bacon, a member of the Red Scorpion gang outside of Kelowna's Delta Grand Hotel in August of 2011.
Vallee's first-degree murder trial for the 2009 murder of Red Scorpion Kevin LeClair began in early February. He is also facing charges of conspiracy to kill Jonathan Bacon and others.
While both men are facing charges from separate killings, evidence was found on Eghtesad's phone that the Crown intends to use against both of them.
Justice Allan Betton ruled Thursday that the search warrant that granted police access to the phone was legal, and therefore the evidence found can be used in the two trials.
McBride's murder trial, along with Jujhar Khun-Khun and Michael Jones, is scheduled to begin May 1, almost six years after the shooting took place.
Photo: Nicholas Johansen
UPDATE: 11:30 a.m.
A Kelowna woman is disputing the fact that patients weren't being let in the hospital during Tuesday night's lockdown at KGH's emergency ward.
She says security was just being selective about who was allowed in.
The woman, who asked not to be named, had arrived at the emergency ward after her mother was rushed there previously.
"The hospital was on lockdown, there were cops all around," she said.
After a brief discussion with a security guard at the door, where she told him she was there to check on her mother, another hospital staff member came out and allowed her inside.
"I had my purse with me; there was no bag search," she said.
The woman's mother was being treated directly beside the shooting victim, and she says there were five police officers watching the back emergency area.
"The staff was really good and the security guards were just doing their job."
ORIGINAL: 5 a.m.
A Kelowna mother and her young daughter were in the emergency room waiting area at KGH Tuesday night when a white Jeep Cherokee, riddled with bullet holes pulled up to the drop off area and a man suffering from gunshot wounds sought treatment.
Nathalie Nicholson had been in the waiting room for about an hour with her daughter, who was suffering from stomach pains, when rumours about a vehicle full of bullet holes began circulating at about 6 p.m.
Soon after, security guards stopped letting people inside.
Patients that left the ER to go out for a smoke or whatever weren't allowed back in for over an hour, even though their names were being called, said Nicholson.
It was total lockdown for a good hour, almost two hours.
Nicholson never saw the man who suffered the gunshot wounds, as she believes hospital staff took him through a different entrance.
When security did begin letting people back inside, Nicholson says they were searching through everyone's bags who entered.
Despite the rampant speculation about what was going on at the hospital, Nicholson says staff never told them what was happening.
She eventually left at about 9 p.m., and a security guard was still checking bags at the door.
Police believe the shooting took place near Sexsmith Road and Pinto Road sometime between 5 and 6 p.m. They have yet to release information about any possible suspects, but believe it was a targeted attack.
Residents in the Rose Valley area of West Kelowna said police were knocking on doors there Tuesday night and Wednesday, and told a resident that the victim lived in the neighbourhood.
The victim was released from hospital Wednesday.
Photo: Interior Health
Those running clandestine drug labs make for lousy neighbours.
Some inconsiderate people running a drug lab near Rock Creek have possibly contaminated the area's water table, prompting a warning from Interior Health.
The RCMP recently found a drug lab near Sanders Road and Johnstone Creek Road West, in between Rock Creek and Bridesville, off Highway 3.
Police say those running the drug lab have been dumping solvents and other hazardous materials into the property's soil, possibly contaminating the water table.
Although the risk of exposure to the materials and potential health impacts are considered low, Interior Health has issued this warning as a precautionary measure until further investigation and water testing of the affected area is completed, the warning states.
The 'do not use' order includes water in a three-kilometre radius from the drug lab.
The order does not apply to those drawing their water from aquifers, deep wells, or hose downstream along the Kettle River. Additionally, those in Bridesville, Rock Creek and Midway are not affected.
IH believes about 25 properties are impacted directly, and are currently in the process of contacting all of the residents.
Police have not said what drugs the lab was producing.
Photo: Contributed
Richmond RCMP are investigating the discovery of a body on Fraserwood Way.
Shortly before 1 p.m. Thursday, police responded to the 20000 block of Fraserwood and confirmed the presence of a deceased male.
Cpl. Dennis Hwang says the death is considered suspicious, and the case has been handed over to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team.
Officers were seen with a tarp-covered body in a gulley off Fraserwood.
No other details of the incident have been released.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the IHIT tipline at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448), email at [email protected] or call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Photo: The Canadian Press
Myles Himmelreich has struggled with significant joint pain since he was a teen, yet he didn't get a proper diagnosis of arthritis until he was in his mid-30s.
His young age and the fact he is diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder may have prevented doctors from considering testing his joints sooner a problem he says is all too common for adults with the disorder, a spectrum of irreversible developmental issues resulting from alcohol exposure in the womb.
Himmelreich, CJ Lutke and Emily Travis co-authored a survey of 541 people living with the disorder in Canada and the United States to see how commonly they experience other physical and mental health conditions. Their findings are being presented Saturday in Vancouver at a conference hosted by the University of British Columbia.
Of over 260 questions pertaining to conditions in 25 areas, such as hearing, autoimmune or cardiovascular disease, they found that people with the disorder experienced health problems at a rate that was anywhere from two times to more than 100 times higher than the general population.
The three authors, who all live with the disorder, met at a previous international conference and advocate to reduce stigma about the disorder. They had the idea for the survey in 2013 while discussing their array of health issues and hearing similar complaints from others.
Completing the survey, they were surprised to find how prevalent those health problems are.
"Do our bodies age and break down faster? I think it seems like it. There are times where I especially feel like an old lady," said Lutke, 33.
Among the general population, about five to eight per cent of people suffer from a total of 80 autoimmune diseases. Yet the survey found that 29.5 per cent of people living with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder who were surveyed reported having at least one of only 10 of those diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease and lupus.
The rate of chronic ear infections among adults who were surveyed was 147 times higher than the general population, and 8.1 per cent of those who took part in the survey reported having hearing loss or problems that began after the age of 20.
Early onset dementia, which happens in people under the age of 65, also affected people in the study at a rate that is 104 times higher than the general population. The average age of respondents in the survey was 27 1/2 years old.
Photo: The Canadian Press
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet with first responders and health-care workers in Vancouver today to discuss the illicit drug overdose crisis that has claimed 922 lives in British Columbia last year.
Following a tour of Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt near Victoria on Thursday, Trudeau said his government is taking the crisis seriously and monitoring the situation closely.
In his last visit to British Columbia in December, Trudeau said he met with people in the Vancouver's Downtown Eastside who raised concerns about expanding hours for safe consumption sites.
He said the recently announced $10 million of federal funds for the province is aimed at improving the response to the crisis.
While legislation to legalize marijuana is planned to be introduced before the summer, Trudeau said it's the only illegal drug under review.
He said regulating the sale of marijuana will protect young people and take money away from criminal gangs, but the government is drawing the line at pot when it comes to legalizing illicit drugs.
"We are not planning on including any other illicit substances in the move towards legalizing and controlling and regulating," he said.
Until new legislation is in effect, Trudeau said repeatedly that current laws criminalizing marijuana remain in place.
Despite his comments, the issue of pot shops which are rampant in several B.C. municipalities including the capital Victoria was not raised during his meeting with the city's mayor Thursday afternoon.
Instead, Mayor Lisa Helps said they discussed the overdose crisis, green technology, the city's cruise ship terminal and housing.
Premier Christy Clark met with Trudeau on Thursday evening in Vancouver, but no details about their discussion have been released.
Trudeau will be taking questions today at a conference for the Young President's Organization, a group that supports and connects young chief executives of companies around the world.
Photo: Drive BC Coquihalla Summit
UPDATE 11:15 p.m.
Drive BC is reporting the Coquihalla is closed to northbound traffic at Hope "due to poor road conditions and considerable avalanche hazard."
The highway is still open to southbound traffic, but travel is not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
Environment Canada says 35 cm has fallen on the pass since Friday morning, with another 10 to 15 cm still to come before the system moves east early Saturday morning.
UPDATE 4:30 p.m.
Those travelling this weekend on Southern Interior highways may want to give that a second thought if it isnt necessary.
The snowfall warning that has hung over the Coquihalla for four straight days has now been extended to Highways 1 and 3.
Environment Canada says the weather system that dropped 20 to 25 cm of snow on the Coquihalla summit over the past 12 hours remains stalled over southwestern BC.
It is expected 15 to 25 cm will fall on the Hope - Princeton Highway by Saturday morning.
Similar accumulations are also being forecast for the Coquihalla, Highway 3 from Paulson Summit to the Kootenay Pass and on the Trans Canada between Eagle and Rogers Pass.
ORIGINAL 8:00 a.m.
For the fourth day in a row, a snowfall warning has been issued for the Coquihalla Highway.
Environment Canada says the route between Hope and Merritt could see up to 30 centimetres of snow by Saturday morning.
Drivers are also warned similar conditions are expected on Highway 3 Hope to Princeton, via the Allison Pass.
"Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow. Rapidly accumulating snow will make travel difficult," says Environment Canada.
"If you must travel, keep others informed of your schedule and destination and carry an emergency kit and mobile phone."
Photo: Google Maps
A man who helped save a family from a house fire in northwestern British Columbia is now one of nine recruits to the fire department in Terrace.
James Giles has previous work experience in emergency response but was acting as a Good Samaritan last October when he rushed to help after spotting flames shooting from the home in Terrace, about 150 kilometres east of Prince Rupert.
Giles says he was impressed by the effective response of the firefighters and was moved to apply when the department launched a recruitment drive.
"I think it's a tight-knit group that it's going to be a pleasure to be a part of," says Giles.
He passed the required fitness test and joins eight others training to become volunteer members of the fire department.
Chief John Klie says the new additions will boost the volunteer component of the department to 26 members, backing up its 10 full-time firefighters.
Mayor Carol Leclerc says the city is lucky to have individuals like Giles volunteering their time. (CJFW)
IL Attorney General Says Job Search Sites May Be Age-Discriminating
By Stephen Gossett in News on Mar 2, 2017 10:34PM
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images)
Some of the most prominent job-search sites in the country could be engaging in age discrimination based on how their websites' function; and the Illinois Attorney General is warning them to fix the problem.
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan sent letters on Thursday to six job-search companiesincluding CareerBuilder, which is headquartered in the Looprequesting information about procedures that appear to limit based on age how users can upload important resume details on websites and apps.
In addition to CareerBuilder, Madigan sent letters to Beyond.com, Indeed Inc., Ladders Inc., Monster Worldwide Inc. and Vault.
Some of the oversights described by the state AG's office sound particularly egregious for older prospective workers seeking employment. In one instance, users couldn't add any education or employment start dates prior to 1980, effectively shutting out persons older than 52, Madigan's office found.
Todays workforce includes many people working in their 70s and 80s, Madigan said in a press release. Barring older people from commonly used job search sites because of their age is discriminatory and negatively impacts our economy.
A spokesperson for CareerBuilder declined to comment on specific operational limitations on the company's website, but said the company is addressing the problem.
"CareerBuilder is committed to helping workers of all ages find job opportunities, and is fixing this unfortunate oversight," Jennifer Sullivan Grasz, vice president of corporate communications for CareerBuilder, told Chicagoist by email.
Ladders told Chicagoist via email that the company has has not received a letter from Madigan to date, but denied taking part in such practices. "Our site does not restrict the dates on resumes that people submit to us," Ladders said. "In fact, to combat age discrimination we do not ask for a year of graduation from college. Our optional work experience section limits your experience to the past 50 years. We have spoken publicly about this topic and feel very passionate about combatting age discrimination in the workforce. What we have shared with job seekers is our belief that to effectively market yourself it is best not to discuss work experience from more than twenty years ago. You can find that information here."
The Civil Rights Bureau of the state Attorney General is also looking into the companies' practices.
More Americans above the age of 65nearly 20 percentare working than at any time since the early 1960s, Bloomberg noted last year, in an analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
This post has been updated.
Photo: Tourism Kelowna
Tourism in the Central Okanagan is worth $1 billion to the local economy, according to Tourism Kelowna.
The study shows that nearly two million yearly visitors to Kelowna contribute more than $1.25 billion locally, and the tourism industry generates $142 million in tax revenues.
Tourism is one of the Central Okanagans leading industries, providing jobs for residents, spending that strengthens our economy and taxation that funds programs and contributes to our quality of life, said Nancy Cameron, Tourism Kelownas president and CEO.
Tourism Kelownas mandate is to increase overnight visitation to benefit our local economy. We have seen visits to our destination continue to grow and this new economic impact data illustrates the importance of tourism to our communities.
Tourism Kelowna said total visitor spending in 2016 was $337 million. The industry is the area's third-largest employer, with 11,890 jobs. The total gross domestic product from tourism is $620 million, with a total economic output of $1.25 billion which is an increase of 48.8 per cent since 2011.
Strategic marketing programs, strong industry partnerships, targeted sales programs, and a new visitor servicing strategy all contribute to this growth and success for the tourism industry and our communities, said Cameron.
The information is based on data from the Kelowna Census Metropolitan Area, Central Okanagan Regional District and the Big White Ski Resort. The full report is available on Tourism Kelownas website.
Photo: Facebook
A Kelowna woman at the centre of a media frenzy as an infant is now coming forward in search of her birth mother.
Teanna, who was famously known as Baby Mary when she was found abandoned in a garbage bag in a Calgary parking lot in 1987, has created a Facebook page in hopes of contacting the woman who left her there.
In a photo posted to Facebook under the profile name Mary Olympia Doe, the name she was given before being adopted, Teanna says: "Looking for my birth parents! I am known to the world as Baby Mary! I was left in a parking lot in Calgary Alberta... Found by two young boys. This all happened on Nov. 25, 1987. Please share this and help. Thank you."
The photo has now been shared more than 1,000 times, and the woman hopes the power of social media will encourage her mother to reach out to her.
Teanna, who has conducted radio interviews in Calgary, says she's not angry anymore, she just wants to connect the dots of her life.
After her adoption, her parents moved to Kelowna, and she was raised out of the spotlight until she decided to go public with her search.
Now almost 30, she says on Facebook she has been overwhelmed with the support she has received.
"Thank you to those who have taken the time to share the picture. It means so much!" she said.
"All I want to know is where I come from. Who brought me into this world?" she posted.
Photo: CTV
A truck driver spent two days trapped in his rig after crashing down a steep embankment in Manning Park.
The man was rescued late Thursday night after crashing off Highway 3 on Tuesday.
Police received a missing person report Wednesday and drove his planned route while search and rescue teams and RCMP Air Services looked to no avail.
The crash scene was discovered Thursday morning, about 35 kilometres east of Hope, in the Rhododendron Flats area.
Due to the difficult terrain and the tractor-trailer being about 70 feet down the slope, the pinned driver was finally freed about 11 p.m.
He was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries, Const. Melissa Wutke said in a press release.
CTV reports the man was alert during the rescue, and rescuers had to disassemble the truck around him to extricate him from the wreck.
This was a very challenging rescue operation," said Wutke.
RCMP and Commercial Vehicle Safety & Enforcement are investigating the cause of the crash.
with files from CTV Vancouver
A Kelowna woman is furious after watching a man driving while on his phone, oblivious to those around him.
Jamie was in the passenger seat of her truck while her husband was driving down Glenmore Road near Kane Road, when she noticed the man beside him was looking at his phone, surfing Facebook.
Jamie, upset by the man's actions, tried to get his attention.
I'm screaming, my husband is honking at him, and the kid is not even looking, Jamie said. I'm so upset.
Finally, the man looked up from his phone and noticed Jamie beside him.
When he finally realized that we were very close to him and videotaping him, he just stared at me, she said. We tried to stop him and he just took off on us.
ICBC says on average, distracted driving contributes to 81 fatal crashes per year in B.C. and a driver is five times more likely to crash when on the phone.
Those caught by police using an electronic device while driving can face a $368 fine and four driving penalty points.
Photo: Contributed
Families in Revelstoke will have an opportunity to comment on the future of education later this month.
On March 10, Ministry of Education staff will host an open house at Revelstoke Secondary school from 6-8 p.m. for people to share ideas on how to transform rural education in B.C.
Citizens and organizations can express their thoughts on rural education and share stories of the importance of rural schools and rural educational programs in a casual setting with a more formal, facilitated discussion planned for the last hour of the meeting.
The open house is part of a public engagement process to help develop a rural education strategy by the summer of 2017.
The public can go online to comment on the draft discussion paper summarizing what was heard from the first phase of rural education engagement, which included an online survey and discussion forum.
All feedback will help government shape a final report on an integrated rural education strategy, including recommendations for the future.
The strategy will aim to find long-term solutions for the challenges facing rural school districts and communities, including looking at the social, cultural and economic roles schools play in small communities.
Photo: CTV
An external investigation has found staff at the Vancouver School Board were bullied, harassed and endured a toxic work environment while carrying out their duties last year.
An executive summary of the report has been released, just over four months after the BC School Superintendent's Association filed a complaint about the treatment of employees at the Vancouver School Board.
A timeline supplied with the report's summary shows by the time the probe began, the board's secretary-treasurer, superintendent and entire senior management team were on indefinite leave, although all have since returned to the job.
Education Minister Mike Bernier fired the school board's elected trustees days later, on Oct. 17, for failing to pass a balanced budget, and replaced the elected board with sole trustee Dianne Turner.
Turner says she was deeply distressed by the findings in the report by lawyer Rosyln Goldner, and says harassment of any kind is not acceptable in the workplace.
WorkSafeBC says it has reviewed Goldner's report and the findings align with its own investigation, which concluded with an inspection report requiring the Vancouver School Board to adhere to policies on harassment and bullying.
So, how can anyone possibly take your "metric" survey results as meaningful when you left out one of the most commonly used measurements with both metric and Imperial scales?
I'm referring to speed limits. I would suggest they are probably the second most common measurement anyone encounters on a daily basis (after temperature).
Anecdotally I would say most (esp. young and urban) people speak of distance in terms of the time it takes to travel, not the actual distance - in modern life the time taken to travel seems to be the only meaningful measure. I use it myself, but my parents look at me funny and ask me "But how _far_ is it?" when I do.
However speed limits are seen by everyone who drives, young and old, and unless one's vehicle is older than they are, or was originally sold in either the USA or maybe England, then probably the metre used to measure its speed is marked only, or at least only visibly, in kilometres per hour.
BTW, in rural Canada, at least in the Prairies and anywhere where surveying was done on a grid, distances are probably still more commonly measured in miles, since that's how far it is between road allowances and if you count the corner posts on fences to gauge distance then you're counting in miles. Miles and acres are impossible to avoid in Western Canada. It's only within my own lifetime that older measurements such as chains and rods have fallen into disuse.
Greg A. Woods
Photo: Wayne Moore
You could excuse RCMP members at the Kelowna detachment if they have circled March 24 on their calendars in indelible ink.
That's the day the long awaited police services building on Clement is scheduled for substantial completion. That means it is fit for occupancy, although some internal work may still be finishing up in some parts of the building.
Andrew Gibbs, who is managing the project for the city, says the building will be turned over to the RCMP. They will do some security work in the building.
Furniture and other items will also be moved in at that time.
"The intention is, when that work is done, the RCMP will begin moving in May and June," said Gibbs.
"It will be fully operational then."
Ground officially broke on the three-storey, 107,000-square-foot police services building Sept. 9, 2015. The building was budgeted at $48 million.
Gibbs says the project is on time and on budget.
The new building replaces the current, 55-year-old, 49,000-square-foot detachment on Doyle Avenue.
Members of the media were given a tour of the new facility Friday morning, but because of security concerns, were only allowed to take pictures in the main entrance lobby and the media room.
What we can tell you is there are 29 prisoner cells located on the main floor of the building, compared with 22 in the current detachment.
Interview and processing rooms are also in the cell block area.
In the current building, prisoners have to be escorted through the building to get to interview rooms, which RCMP reserve Const. Kerry Solinsky says can be a security risk.
Solinsky, who's the Kelowna detachment's building co-ordinator, says design changes make the new building much more functional.
"It allows us to keep up with the new technology, and also the new ways of investigation," said Solinsky.
The new detachment, according to Gibbs, was designed to accommodate employment until about 2025, but he added expansion capabilities have been built in that can occur without interfering with the operation of the building.
The building will house RCMP members who have been working at other offices in the city because of space limitations at the Doyle detachment.
However, members of the regional Southeast district will remain in their current location.
The Doyle Avenue detachment will eventually be demolished. However Gibbs says a timeframe for that has not been determined.
Hazmat assessments will need to be done, and the city still has to determine exactly what will become of the former RCMP site.
The site is part of the overall Civic Block plan.That plan envisions a six to 13-storey mixed use development on the site. Expansion of the Art Walk could also be part of the site.
Photo: YLW
Spring into travel this weekend at YLW.
Kelowna International Airport hosts a spring travel event on Saturday at which travellers can meet air carriers, travel agents, hotel and resort reps and maybe even win a vacation.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and visitors can get helpful travel tips and information on popular destinations.
This year, we have a fantastic lineup of booths for participants to connect with and learn about exciting new travel options from YLW, said airport director Sam Samaddar.
Money raised from draw ballots will go to the Sunshine Foundation of Canada.
YLW and its partners are giving away five prize packages:
Air North Yukon adventure for two, including airfare and accommodation celebrating Canada's 150th anniversary
Central Mountain Aira return trip for two from Kelowna to Prince George, Terrace, Smithers, Fort St. John or Fort Nelson
Pacific Coastal Airlinesa airfare for two and a two-night stay at the St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casinoa in Cranbrook
$250 Transata future travel voucher
$200 Air Canada Vacationsa travel voucher and four Maple Leaf Lounge passes
Free parking will be provided in the long-term lot during the event hours.
YLW served 1.7 million passengers in 2016.
Photo: Contributed
Yet another proposed class action related to the so-called '60s Scoop alleges the federal government was negligent in allowing aboriginal children to lose their cultural identities when they were taken from their homes and placed with non-native families.
The new claim, filed in Federal Court this week, comes hard on the heels of a ruling that the government was liable for the harm suffered by on-reserve children in Ontario who were placed in non-indigenous homes, and weeks after Ottawa announced it wanted to negotiate with all scoop victims across the country.
According to the unproven statement of claim in the latest case, the proposed class comprises all aboriginal children in Canada taken from their families and placed with non-aboriginals, who did not raise them "in accordance with the aboriginal person's customs, traditions and practices."
Among other things, the proposed suit alleges the federal government failed to prevent the children's loss of cultural identity and to ensure they were made aware of their aboriginal status, effectively depriving them of their treaty rights.
"Canada was careless, reckless, wilfully blind, or deliberately accepting of, or was actively promoting, a policy of cultural assimilation," the unproven statement of claim states.
The representative plaintiff in the proposed lawsuit is Wendy Lee White, 44, of St. John's, N.L. According to the statement of claim, White was born Pauline Numa in North West River, Labrador. She was taken from her Innu mother as a toddler before being adopted by non-aboriginal parents just before her third birthday.
The proposed suit, filed by lawyers for the firm Koskie Minsky in Toronto, seeks $500 million in damages for breach of fiduciary duty and negligence, and $100 million in punitive damages.
The claim specifically excludes the on-reserve '60s Scoop victims in Ontario who won last month after a bitterly fought years-long battle with the federal government.
In that landmark ruling, Ontario Superior Court Justice Edward Belobaba ruled that Canada failed to take reasonable steps to prevent thousands of on-reserve children from losing their indigenous heritage after they were placed with non-native families between 1965 and 1984. Damages in that case have yet to be determined.
Shortly before he was set to rule, Indigenous Affairs Minister Carolyn Bennett announced the government wanted to negotiate with all scoop victims, prompting an 11th-hour effort by federal lawyers which they later gave up to block Belobaba from releasing his decision.
Bennett did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the new action, which is one of several others already filed years ago in provinces across the country. None of them has been certified.
Chicago Area Police Rank Among Worst In Racial Disparity In Traffic Searches: Study
By Stephen Gossett in News on Mar 3, 2017 4:38PM
Getty Images / Photo: Brad Thompson
Black and Hispanic drivers were searched during traffic stops at rates disproportionately higher in Cook County police departments and the Evanston police departments than they were in other agencies, according to a recent analysis of traffic stops.
Four departmentsthe Palatine Police Department, the Cook County Sheriffs Department, the Evanston Police Department and the Chicago Police Departmentfared particularly poorly in a study that looked at the rates by which traffic stops lead to searches.
The study is based on 55 million stops that were conducted by more than 130 law enforcement agencies in 16 states8 states that legally require departments to publish traffic-stop data and eight that, at least intermittently, do so voluntarily. Illinois passed a law in 2003 that required a study of traffic stops to identify racial bias.
Among the departments studied, researchers found that, between 2008 and 2011, Chicago area departments represented the ten most disproportionate outliers in terms on black-to-white search ratios. In 2009 in Evanston, for example, black motorists were searched nearly eight times as often as white drivers.
"Illinois police agencies appear to have highly targeted practices of searching minorities," the researchers wrote.
"Racial Disparities in Traffic Stop Outcomes"
Area law enforcement agencies fared even worse in terms of how often Hispanic drivers were searched during stops compared to white drivers, particularly the Palatine Police Department and the Cook County Sheriff. The sharpest outlier in that data set was the Sheriff in 2009, when Hispanics were searched 18 times more often than white drivers.
"Racial Disparities in Traffic Stop Outcomes"
Researchers wrote that a combination of citizen's ability to document stops, increased use of dashcams and bodycams in police departments, and greater access to databases of police traffic stops were nonetheless signs of progress.
"Our current focus on race and justice is all too familiar, but this most recent surge in attention to these issues offers perhaps a special promise of progress because our abilities to document citizen interactions with police have never been better," they wrote.
[H/T Injustice Watch]
Photo: Flickr - BC gov't
Premier Christy Clark says a $40-million high-speed Internet expansion project will build infrastructure and create jobs in rural British Columbia.
She was at the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology in Merritt today to highlight the government's rural economic development strategy.
Almost $246 million of the initiatives that form the strategy were included in last month's budget.
Clark says the Internet improvement project will create jobs in rural communities and allow local entrepreneurs to explore new business ventures without moving to urban centres.
The government's rural strategy comes just weeks before the official start of May's election, where rural-urban economic differences are expected to be major campaign issues.
The latest B.C. Stats employment data shows unemployment at 10.5 per cent in the northeast region, while the jobless rate in the Lower Mainland is 4.9 per cent.
The regional council at Fort Nelson recently implemented widespread community cuts to weather the local economic downturn.
Photo: Contributed
The father of a nine-year-old girl who was drugged and killed by her mother told the woman's sentencing hearing Friday that he will never forgive her for the pain she has caused.
Duane Lucius said he can't understand how his former wife could do such a thing to her own child.
"I try to be strong for my family and friends," Lucius told a Calgary court. "I feel upset (about) how someone could do something like this to a little, innocent girl with a whole life ahead of her."
Laura Coward, 50, pleaded guilty last month to the second-degree murder of Amber Lucius and is facing an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for at least 10 years.
Holding a picture of Amber, Lucius told court he misses his daughter's warm hugs and thinks about her every day.
"I gave her mom time to spend with her, but Laura never thought it was enough. I would like to know how a person could do such a thing. I will never forgive her and I will never forget my daughter Amber because she meant a lot to me."
The girl was reported missing Aug. 31, 2014, and her mother was arrested two days later near Sundre in west-central Alberta. She was standing outside a burned truck in which her daughter's body was discovered.
Coward had Amber for the weekend, and on a trip to a remote area, gave her a toxic but non-lethal dose of a prescription sleeping medication. She mistakenly thought Amber was dead and filled the truck with Amber unconscious inside with paper and plastic totes before setting it on fire with a propane torch and closing the door.
An autopsy suggested the girl died of a combination of hypothermia, smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide toxicity.
A police officer who came upon the burned vehicle saw a handwritten note on the outside of the driver's door that read: "Help me. It was an accident. Locked keys in.''
Crown prosecutor Jillian Pawlow urged the judge to require that Coward spend 20 years in custody before she can seek parole.
"The Crown submits that the accused's primary motivation was revenge-motivated, meant to inflict the most serious and permanent pain and anguish on Duane Lucius by depriving him of his only daughter," said Pawlow.
"An offence such as this one ... alarms every decent citizen. It is incomprehensible how a parent could so cruelly take the life of their young child. For any parent going through a long and protracted custody dispute with an ex-spouse, this is most definitely the greatest fear realized."
Court documents described a bitter divorce between Coward and Lucius. A custody tug-of-war over their daughter had continued up until the girl was found dead.
In June 2013, a judge had named Lucius as Amber's primary caregiver and the girl moved back to his parents' farm with him. Coward and another daughter from a previous marriage moved to a nearby rural property to be closer to Amber.
Photo: Google Earth
A youth has been charged in a fire that destroyed the only school in a remote Nunavut hamlet.
RCMP say a 13-year-old is accused of arson in the blaze at the Kugaaruk school on Tuesday night.
No one was hurt, but officials are trying to find classroom space for hundreds of children.
Officials have said the firefighting effort was hampered by extremely cold temperatures which reached -60 C.
Kugaaruk sits on the southeastern shore of Pelly Bay off the Gulf of Boothia and has a population of just under 1,000 people.
Police say the youth has been released from custody on conditions and is to appear in court in Kugaaruk on April 5.
"The loss of the school has caused and will continue to cause hardship for the community as the school was used and utilized in several different roles," police said in a news release Friday.
RCMP are asking anyone with any information on the fire to contact them.
John Ivey, senior administrative official for Kugaaruk, said earlier this week that the fire threatened the community office as well as the hamlet's power plant and its diesel fuel supply tanks.
Ivey said the intense cold froze water lines and firefighters had to swap each other out to warm up.
Americas military is having its day in the sun. On February 27, President Donald Trump published a proposed federal budget boosting military expenditure by 10% while drastically reducing funding for the arts, education, environmental protections and social programs. He also recently appointed three military men to high-level cabinet positions retired general James Mattis as Secretary of Defence, General John Kelly as Homeland Security Secretary, and Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster as National Security Advisor. This situation is unique in modern American history. Not since 1951, when president Harry Truman dismissed General Douglas MacArthur over the scope of the Korean war, has the possibility of conflict between political leadership and military interests been more likely. The same cant be said of Latin America and the Caribbean, with their long history of military rule. Interestingly, the regions 20th century military dictatorships often resulted from the same dilemma North Americans now face: choosing between a strong military elite and an incompetent commander-in-chief directing a chaotic national administration.
Trumps cabinet of generals
Trumps recent military appointments have been celebrated by some Americans, in part because of the three officers indisputable intellectual and professional merits. Coming on the heels of Michael Flynns resignation as National Security Advisor due to his still-murky, pre-inauguration engagement with Russian officials, the three generals seem credibly patriotic.
They also bring a sense of stability and experience to the erratic Trump administration. From extemporaneous announcements about potentially withdrawing from NATO to dropping out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement, actions supposedly taken with the purpose of assuring American security and sovereignty have instead made many Americans feel more vulnerable than ever.
Trumps recent characterisation of mass immigration raids as a military operation required immediate public clarification by Department of Homeland Security chief Kelly that the military wont be used for deportations.
Not that it was an improbable idea in the Trump era. As Kelly admitted in the same press release, there had indeed been a draft proposal to enlist 100,000 National Guard troops in the apprehension of undocumented immigrants in several states.
So the US finds itself at a delicate juncture, given its long history of civilian control over the countrys armed forces. If the current West Wing continues to issue unconstitutional edicts, it could create a foreign policy vacuum that could justify the military having a determinant role in geopolitical decision-making.
Your neighbours know
In much of the rest of the Americas, the military has often been a decisive political actor. In 1980, two-thirds of the Latin American population lived under military rule.
Notable examples include the case of General Rafael L. Trujillo, head of the Dominican army when he assumed power in 1931, whose 30-year reign was one of Latin Americas most resilient dictatorships. Then theres Hugo Chavez, the comandante who staged a failed 1992 military coup before being elected president of Venezuela (1999-2013).
As documented (by A. Stephan, B. Loveman and T. Davies, and R. Diamint , among other thinkers), Latin American militarists valued authoritarian orders not simply because their democratic orders were weak, but because the arrangement benefited both political and military elites. They held power symbiotically and had each others backs.
Consider the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet (1973-1988). His economic policies create an entrepreneurial military body that continued benefiting from massive national investment even after Chile transitioned to democracy, with many Chileans consent.
Our beloved military
The US armed forces, on the contrary, have long epitomised a bureaucratic or Weberian-type standing army. This emblematic American institution embodies professional discipline, technical training and high-tech warfare all subordinated to, instead of a surrogate for, the civilian order.
But the arrangement is not infallible. In his seminal 1957 study, The Soldier and the State, Samuel Huntington reflected a paradox: civilian control requires keeping the military out of politics, but this goal can only be accomplished by militarising the military, making them the tool of the state.
Yet by putting the military in control of the states most powerful instrument violence it is enabled, even in a democratic regime, to undermine civilian control. Civilian control decreases as the military become progressively involved in institutional, class, and constitutional politics, Huntington wrote.
His warning now seems prescient. In announcing his proposed federal budget, Trump said he was fulfilling his pledge of substantially upgrading all of our beloved military, all of our military, offensive, defensive, everything, bigger and better and stronger than ever before.
Latin Americans would find little surprising in this arrangement: the militarys increasing supremacy in the Trump administration reflects the relative weakness of the civilian and political counterweights that have historically ensured democratic control of defence in the US.
The new president is unprepared to address the strategic challenges posed by extremist groups engaged in non-conventional wars, his behaviour toward tried-and-true allies is unpredictable and he disdains conventional structures such as NATO. So in come the generals.
Finding the right civil-military balance has been challenging in Latin Americas young democracies. In Ecuadors 1992 presidential elections, 65% of the population said they would prefer a military coup over Abdala Bucarams victory.
In Chile, even after democracy was restored, the army kept (and still maintains) substantial economic resources and veto power in strategic matters. The same was true when the Dominican Republic transitioned into a post-dictatorial regime in mid-1960s; it took a long while to reduce the militarys autonomy.
But over the last two decades, thanks to incredible effort from committed citizens, politicians, academics and social movements, most Latin American and Caribbean countries have at last largely expanded civilian control over the military.
Brazil and Chile did so as their congresses fought to obtain accountability and transparency regarding the military budget. In Argentina, Peru, Uruguay and Ecuador, civilian power grew more organically as part of the perennial battle to constrain the militarys proclivity to define its own missions and defence agendas as an expression of strength and autonomy.
US citizens can learn from their neighbours. All the warning signs are there, and civilian control of the military cannot be taken for granted. America, you dont know what youve got until its gone.
Lilian Bobea, Senior Researcher, Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales (FLACSO) - Dominican Republic
This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
With important national elections scheduled this year in the Netherlands, France and Germany, European officials on edge about possible Russian interference are pursuing various measures to counter it. But with a daily onslaught of fake and misleading news, repeated attempts to hack computer systems of anti-Moscow politicians and political parties, their task is immense. Russian efforts to tilt elections and national referenda to suit its interests are ongoing. According to a report released by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence on Russias influence on the 2016 US election, Putins government has sought to influence elections across Europe. Hans-Georg Maassen, the head of Germanys domestic security agency, also warned of growing evidence of Russian attempts to influence Germanys federal elections, set for September. Alex Younger, the head of MI6, Britains Secret Intelligence Service, finds profound the risk to British sovereignty posed by the kind of state-directed fake news, propaganda, and other acts of subversion the Kremlin routinely engages in. Russia has denied interference in the US or European elections, and calls such accusations examples of rampant Russophobia in the West.
Undermining democracy
Disinformation campaigns, or what are also sometimes called active measures in the information space, have become an increasingly important feature of Russian military doctrine.
The goal of these campaigns is to weaken and undermine support for the European Union, NATO, and public trust and confidence in democracy itself. And with the rise of anti-establishment, anti-EU politicians across Europe, Russia has found an increasingly receptive audience for such operations.
Russian propaganda campaigns date back to before the Cold War. But the sophistication and volume of these efforts are greater today than in the past. The internet has opened up new modes and opportunities for Russia to influence foreign elections and new vulnerabilities for democratic societies, for which the free flow of information is a fundamental feature.
There is evidence, for example, that Russia played a role in several key national referenda across Europe last year: in April, when Dutch voters rejected an EU treaty with Ukraine that would have led to closer political and economic ties; in June, when British voters opted to leave the EU; and in December, when Italian voters rejected constitutional reforms championed by then Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, leading to his resignation.
The results of each of these votes served Russias broad interest in undermining EU cohesion.
Russian interference in Western elections can take various forms. Its operators may disseminate false or misleading news via blogs, websites, and social media or hack into computer networks and email accounts to steal and then leak compromising information against politicians seen to be anti-Russia (for example, Hillary Clinton). At the extreme, hackers may rig computer systems to manipulate election vote counts.
Russias disinformation campaigns also aim to instil doubt, confusion, and cynicism in the democratic process, erode public trust in institutions and in the news media even to the point of eliminating the very idea of a shared reality. This foments populist anger and anxiety.
Thus disinformation campaigns and cyberespionage are for Russia attractive means to undermine Western governments and societies.
Theyre also hard to track down and stop, offering Russia plausible deniability. Russian officials can operate covertly and through intermediaries, making it hard to find conclusive evidence directly implicating top Kremlin authorities.
It is often not clear if hackers are working with clear directions from Moscow or if they simply share sympathies with the Russian government and are acting independently.
A clear and present threat
Dutch authorities are so concerned about the possibility that its election could be manipulated that the interior minister announced that ballots will be counted by hand in the upcoming national election. Experts had warned that government computer systems were vulnerable to attack and disruption by state actors.
Likewise, the German government has advised of the possibility of a Russian cyberattack against the countrys federal elections. Russia is already suspected of hacking into the German Parliaments computer network in 2015. German officials also suspect that Russia was behind a computer hack last November that resulted in 900,000 Germans temporarily losing internet and telephone service.
Putin has a powerful incentive to undermine German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who has been one of his most outspoken critics in Europe. She is also one of the strongest voices in favour of maintaining EU sanctions against Russia for its 2014 invasion and annexation of Crimea and its support for separatist rebels in the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine.
In France, Emmanuel Macron, who is running on a pro-EU platform ahead of French presidential elections in April and May, has accused Russian hackers of targeting him in an attempt to smear his candidacy. Richard Ferrand, the secretary-general of Macrons En Marche party, has said that the campaigns website and databases have been subject to hundreds, if not thousands of attacks from inside Russia.
An existential threat
Gerard Araud, Frances ambassador to the United States, argues that Russian election interference and manipulation, if unchecked, could pose an existential threat to Western democracies.
European governments are taking various steps in response. They have tried to educate voters on how to identify fake news and have threatened retaliatory measures against Moscow if its subversive activities persist.
The EU has even created a team whose mission is to address Russias ongoing disinformation campaigns by weeding out false or misleading online news.
Despite the various successes it can plausibly claim, election interference can also backfire on Russia. US intelligence agencies have traced the hacking of the Democratic National Committee computer systems back to the highest levels of the Kremlin and before leaving office in January, President Barack Obama imposed a range of sanctions and other retaliatory measures on Russia.
Such public hacking and disinformation campaigns have further damaged its relations with the West. Russia will now be the primary suspect for any electoral problems or irregularities in the future.
With Brexit negotiations, the rise of anti-EU and anti-establishment political parties, and the uncertainty surrounding the presidency of Donald Trump, Europe already faces a precarious moment. But since Russian disinformation campaigns target the very foundations of liberal democracy, they represent something perhaps even more sinister, threatening, and potentially destructive than Europes many other troubles.
Richard Maher, Research Fellow, Global Governance Programme, Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies, European University Institute
This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
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12 Of Our Favorite Events In Chicago This Weekend
Enroll in Cocktails 101 at The Violet Hour this Sunday. Image via The Violet Hour's Facebook page.
It's the freakin' weekend, and we're about to have some funwith comedy shows, the History Museum, the Chiditarod and more.
FRIDAY MARCH 3
LGBTQ HISTORY: The Chicago History Museums LGBTQ series, Out at CHM, steps into Art, AIDS and Activism at this weeks panel discussion. Hear how art has been used to speak out about the AIDS pandemic, advocate for its victims and critique public response from experts at SAIC, University of Illinois and Papi Project. Reception begins at 5:30 p.m. with panel discussion following at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.
FUNNY HA HA: Get Warm and Fuzzy at this episode of Funny Ha Ha hosted by Claire Zulkey at the Hideout. The live lit show features readings from Miss Spoken Co-Founder Carly Oishi, Second City's Pat Reidy, Huffington Post's Kim Bellware and many more. Entry is a $10 suggested donation at the door benefiting Sit Stay Read.
SPAMILTON: Every great production deserves a parody, and Spamilton is here to give Hamilton its due. The Off-Broadway hit celebrates, roasts and eviscerates the Tony Award winning blockbuster. The show, created by Gerard Alessandrini ("Forbidden Broadway") will run for 12 weeks only at Royal George Theatre. Tickets start at $59.
NOT SO SWEET 16 PARTY: Fireside Bowl will be the place to celebrate the end of the year that took Bowie, Prince, Leonard Cohen and others from us. FLOOD Magazine is throwing a party to kiss 2016 good bye with DJ sets from Greg Corner, Derek Berry and free bowling. RSVP for free entry and a free Deep Eddy cocktail. 8 p.m. to midnight.
PUNKTASTIC: The Menzingers grow up (a little) on this years After the Party. The tempos are a little slower, the lyric a little more introspective, but the band doesnt skimp on the hooks which keeps the energy up. Its not quite the blast furnace of punk-pop that was 2014s Rented World, but its still one of the better albums weve heard so far this year. Jeff Rosenstocks WORRY. Has proven to be a sleeper that has grown in our estimation since its release last year. Its the aural equivalent of drunkenly staggering all over the stage with every amp cranked into the red, tempered by hooks that sound deceptively simple and ready-made for punk rock party. Catch both groups, with Rozwell Kid opening, Friday night at The Metro.
LILLSTREET LOFT PARTY: Check out Lillstreet's new digs at a free party with cocktails, tarot card readings and creative experiences from 7 to 9 p.m. The Ravenswood art and event space underwent a redesign and guests are invited to drop in and enjoy two gallery openings at Lillstreet Art Center at the same time. RSVP here.
SATURDAY MARCH 4
Image via CHIditarod's Facebook page.
CHIDITAROD: The CHIditarod shopping cart race slash talent show slash food drive is back for another year. In the spirit of the Iditarod, teams of five take to carts instead of sleds and fill them with food to donate to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Its a chaotic scene as each team takes on a theme and puts on their costumes in the spirit of giving. Spectators will want to gather near the starting line at Wollcott and Hubbard. Race kicks off at 12:30 p.m.
MUSIC FROZEN DANCING: Who is crazy enough to throw an outdoor music festival in the middle of a Chicago winter? The Empty Bottle, thats who. The winter block party Music Frozen Dancing is back outside the small venue with noise rockers Metz and indie trio Screaming Females co-headlining. Keep warm out there with beers from Goose Island, coffee from Dark Matter and chili from Bite Cafe. Gates open at 1 p.m. Free.
Image via Chicago Beer Festival's Facebook page.
CHICAGO BEER FESTIVAL: If youve ever thought about knocking back some cold ones with Sue, now is your chance. The Chicago Beer Festival takes over the great hall at the Field Museum from 8 to 11 p.m. with more than 70 breweries sampling seasonal brews. Some of the museum exhibits will be open to peruse plus there will be music and food available. Get your tickets in advance for this one though, because they wont be sold at the door. Tickets are $45 ($55 for VIP which includes early entry at 7 p.m.).
HIDE N SEEK: The annual Chicago Children's Museum Hide N Seek fundraiser is back at the Navy Pier space. The event supports the museum's innovative exhibits, educational programs, and extensive community access initiatives while grown ups enjoy an evening of food, cocktails, music, raffles, and fun. This year's theme is " Spring Training" in honor of the World Series champion Chicago Cubs big win. Tickets are $120.
SUNDAY MARCH 5
2016 Chicago Polar Plunge from SCC/Special Olympics Chicago on Vimeo.
POLAR PLUNGE: While it hasnt been that cold this winter, were willing to bet that the water in Lake Michigan is still a tad bit nippy. A bunch of people will plunge into the freezing water anyway this Sunday, and its all in support of Special Olympics Chicago. Past plungers include celebrities like Lady Gaga, Vince Vaughn, Jimmy Fallon and our very own Mayor Emanuel. The first wave goes in at 10 a.m. at North Avenue Beach. Come just to watch the madness or register here to take the plunge. There is no registration fee, but plungers are required to fundraise a minimum of $200.
COCKTAIL CLASS: Learn the secrets of The Violet Hour's expert bartenders at their Cocktails 101 class from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $100. Email andrea@theviolethour.com or call 773-252-1500 for reservations.
What Exactly Is The City Doing About Vehicles Blocking Bike Lanes?
By Stephen Gossett in News on Mar 3, 2017 6:14PM
Photo: Steven Vance
If you ride a bike in Chicago, you've almost certainly had the experience: You're pedaling along the bike lane only to find the designated path ahead blocked by a delivery driver, or Uber car, or postal truck or any other of a seemingly endless parade of offenders. More than a nuisance, it's a very real safety hazard. So what exactly is the city doing to curb the practice?
Thanks in part to the efforts of individual cyclists and the advocacy group Active Transportation Alliance, the city appears to be moving in the right direction. A new "bike lane blockage" option was added to the city's 311 reporting options; and the Chicago Department of Transportation said it aims to improve the 311 system further in the future. The agency said it's also working with other departments to ramp up enforcement of such violations. The door may even be open to allow city staff other than police officers to assist with enforcement.
Active Trans sent a series of recommendations to CDOT in December after running Clear the Way, a campaign that urged the public to call 311 and send photos with to ATA when they encountered dangerous blockages on bike lanes and sidewalks or unsafe pavement. The campaign garnered more than 500 reports in its just one month.
"Responses even continued to troll in after we stopped tracking." Kyle Whitehead, government relations director at Active Trans, told Chicagoist. "The campaign really resonated at the grassroots level with people who are biking and walking every day. The issues are readily apparent and affecting how people get around."
Chicago cyclists had been pushing the issue even prior to Clear the Way, most noticeably by sharing photos of blocked lanes with the hashtag #enforce940060 (a reference to the ordinance that prohibits the parking violation).
Supplemented by its Clear the Way findings, ATA advised three recommendations to CDOT: further streamlined 311 reporting (including social-media and text functionality); posting contractor permits online, so that information about construction projects can be easily found; and increased enforcementincluding allowing city staff other than police to issue the pertinent violation.
"Some aldermen have been interested and supportive of [allowing other city staff to enforce the ordinance]," Whitehead said. "We recognize that police resources are limited and need to be applied to other issues. So perhaps other staff, such as public way inspectors, can help properly address safety issues."
Any time sidewalks and bike lanes are illegally blocked, it creates inconveniences and raises safety issues for everyone using the right of wayespecially more vulnerable users such as people walking and biking, Rebekah Scheinfeld, CDOT Commissioner, said according to ATA. "...[W]e look forward to continued collaboration with partners like Active Trans and other community stakeholders as we roll-out our Vision Zero action plan this year.
The Vision Zero plan aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities by 2026. The long-in-the-works, multi-department plan is expected to be finalized later this month, CDOT spokesperson Michael Claffey told Chicagoist. According to the latest preview, one of the plan's components will be to analyze data in order to raise awareness of dangerous driving behaviors.
Eleven towns and cities in Britain, most of them off the tourist map, were named Thursday as bidders to be declared the next UK City of Culture.
They are eager to wear the cultural crown in 2021, following in the footsteps of the northeast England seaport of Hull which is holding the title this year.
The winner of the title is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors and tourists, earning millions of dollars for the local economy.
Included in the line-up is Britain's smallest city, St. David's in south Wales, with a population of less than 2,000. It is best known as the final resting place of St. David, the patron saint of Wales who was born in the year 500 AD.
Stoke-on-Trent, known for potteries, is celebrated as the home of famous pottery works by master potters such as Wedgwood.
The northern industrial town of Warrington, midway between the big cities of Liverpool and Manchester, is also in the race for the title. The town is best known for its World War II base for the U.S. military, which saw the town's Burtonwood area becoming Europe's biggest U.S. supply center.
Minister of State for Digital and Culture Matt Hancock announced the 11 bidders, which also includes Coventry, Hereford, Paisley, Perth, Portsmouth, Sunderland, Swansea and Wells.
The National Heritage Lottery Fund is to give a prize of 3 million pounds to the winner to boost local heritage.
Hancock said "UK City of Culture is a fantastic opportunity for towns and cities to celebrate their creativity and use culture as a catalyst for economic growth."
Hull is the second city to host the title. Its program this year includes 365 days of cultural events. It is estimated that being the UK City of Culture 2017 will deliver a 60 million pound boost to Hull's economy this year. The city has also seen a 1 billion pound investment since winning the title in 2013.
A shortlist of the bidding areas will be announced in the summer before the winning area is announced in December.
Holcim Croatia boosts revenues thanks to exports
ICR Newsroom By 03 March 2017
Holcim Croatia saw its revenues rise by seven per cent YoY in 2016 as it improved exports. In addition, the company reduced its expenditures and kept cash flow high.
However, the domestic market maintained the pressure to lower prices. Unfortunately, on the domestic market there is still a constant pressure to reduce prices, so all the effort we've invested as a team could actually have had a much better effect", the companys CFO, Denis Zupicic, explained.
He added that if prices were to drop, the industry would not be sustainable. "Every employee wants to be fairly paid for their work, including those in manufacturing, those in construction, as well as those in services, so it is time for everyone in the civil engineering business to start thinking sustainably and building deals based on real prices", he said.
Published under
Inner coffin of Seshepenmehyt of ancient Egypt. [Photo provided to China Daily]
The British Museum's highly-acclaimed A History of the World in 100 Objects has already attracted more than 1 million visitors during its world tour. This week, the exhibition began its China leg of the tour. It's on at the Beijing's National Museum of China until May 31, before traveling to Shanghai Museum from June to September.
The exhibition evolved from a broadcasting series that the London museum started in partnership with the BBC in 2010. Each 15-minute program introduced one of 100 objects from the museum's collection that revealed the communication methods of various human cultures over the course of 2 million years.
The exhibition is not intended to show the differences between cultures, but what they have in common.
A permanent fishing ban in all 279 aquatic reserves along the Yangtze River has begun, as China races to revive the flagging ecosystem of its largest river.
"Biodiversity in the Yangtze River has been shrinking. The Chinese paddlefish has not been seen in years and the Chinese sturgeon and finless porpoise are on the brink of extinction," said Yu Kangzhen, Vice Minister of Agriculture, at a meeting in Wuhan, capital of central China's Hubei Province, on Thursday.
The numbers of four species of carp have decreased by 97 percent from the levels in the 1950s, Yu said.
The annual catch from the river is less than 100,000 tonnes, contributing very little to the 69 million tonnes of fishery production nationwide, he said.
The Yangtze River does not have sufficient conditions for fishery production anymore, and it is more important to emphasize its ecological functions and protect aquatic biodiversity, he added.
"People are even fighting for food against the finless porpoise in some places, damaging the reserves," Yu said.
A Ministry of Agriculture four-month fishing ban comes into force in several major rivers including the Yangtze on March 1. The ban is the first four-month ban in regions south of the Yangtze.
The ministry said it will help fishermen change jobs and impose the ban in a gradual way.
The ban is required by the "No. 1 Central Document" released in February, the first policy statement from the central authorities in the year, and traditionally devoted to agriculture.
The ban has been extended to four months from three and was extended to the Huaihe River last year. This year, the Pearl River and Minjiang River are included for the first time.
Bicycles, mostly from the bike-sharing company Mobike, were parked at a parking lot on Wednesday. [Photo/China Daily]
Authorities in Shanghai's Huangpu district have seized more than 4,000 rental bikes, most of them improperly parked, highlighting the poor management of bicycles rented over the internet and the shortage of parking areas, especially in downtown areas.
There are also concerns that the problems faced by Shanghai may quickly spread to other cities as competition intensifies.
At a parking lot on Zhizaoju Road, thousands of rental bikes were laid out in rows with their wheels connected by iron chains. Some web users described the venue as a graveyard of bikes.
Zhou Lan, deputy director of the urban management department of Huangpu, said the seizure serves as a countermeasure to fight illegally parked bicycles, instead of merely revenge on bike-sharing companies.
Zhou said that the regional government authorized two independent institutions to help with the proper parking of nonmotor vehicles, and to tow away those outside designated areas on sidewalks.
A small number of properly parked rental bicycles were seized to make way for other nonmotor vehicles.
It's estimated that in Huangpu, there are about 150,000 nonmotor vehicles - more than half of them electric bikes. But there are less than 1,500 nonmotor vehicle parking lots in the district, while the number of rental bikes has surged to more than 20,000.
Citywide, it's estimated that more than 280,000 rental bikes have been put on the streets. Guo Jianrong, secretary-general of the Shanghai Bicycle Association, said that by June, the city is expected to have 500,000 rental bicycles.
"The association is busy drafting three new sets of standards: the management standard for shared bicycles, for shared electric bikes and for their service providers," Guo said.
But for the time being, the struggle between bike-sharing startups and the regional government is continuing as business leaders in the sector said they won't reduce the number of bicycles in big cities.
"We will continue to put more bikes in operation in Shanghai, depending on user demand," said a spokeswoman for Mobike, the pioneer and now dominant player in the bike-sharing sector.
She said that Mobike has a management team of about 100 in Shanghai, plus 400 front-line operators.
In a news release on Thursday, the company said that it is collaborating with Baidu by taking advantage of its cloud computing service to fix the accuracy of the position of its parked bikes, which will help with management of the bikes.
A reward plan is also in the pipeline to encourage users to park bikes properly, the company said. Regarding the seized bikes, Mobike said that it will communicate with the urban management department and is willing to cover some of the department's management costs.
With the annual political cycle of the " Two Sessions " upon us, this is an opportune time to consider the most likely topics in science and education the government may address.
Annual staples include scientific approaches to curbing the country's persistent air pollution problems and the levels of basic research funding needed for Chinese scientists to play a global role. But this time around, discussions about the "double first-rate" initiative - dubbed "World Class 2.0" - may well take center stage where education policies and significant injections of funding are concerned.
The "double first" aspect refers to the cultivation of first-class universities supporting a number of disciplines that are or will soon become world-leading. It is meant to lead to education transformation and innovation at domestic universities, improving the teaching and learning experiences of their students, strengthening the research abilities of their professors, and contributing to the country's science and technology development.
The scheme was announced by the Ministry of Education in August 2015 and is said to specifically include creating hubs for international collaboration with overseas universities close to existing top university campuses, although separate from them, as part of a new internationalization drive to ensure that the best universities will eventually achieve world-class status.
With such ambitious goals, the new scheme exceeds the expectations of the two programs it has replaced, the so-called 985 and 211 projects, which were primarily aimed at improving the domestic research performance, encouraging universities to rise up the global university rankings and establish international reputations.
These developments have not gone unnoticed internationally. Sir David Greenaway, president of the U.K.'s University of Nottingham and chair of the Russell Group of elite universities, said recently, "This is very much Asia's century. China's growth has been astounding over the past 20 years and that has underpinned a big investment in research and development. Alongside that they are expanding their higher education [system and] they are growing their number of partnerships."
The World Class 2.0 project will predominantly support China's C9 group of elite universities, with the idea to transform six of these top institutions into global leaders by 2020. By 2030, the government's stated goal is to boost some of China's leading higher education institutions into the world Top 15. These aims are ambitious indeed, given that extensive studies have shown that it takes 20 to 30 years of sustained support to transform any university into a world-leading institution.
This focus on a small number of elite institutions, which comprise 3 percent of the country's researchers but attract 10 percent of the overall research budget, comes with the real danger of an increasing gap in attainment between the top universities and "the rest." While world-class status would certainly boost the reputation of China's university system, those institutions lagging behind may lose even more access to resources as a result. The government's deliberations may well consider how such an undesired outcome could be mitigated.
In the current international political landscape, unexpected opportunities seem to have arisen recently, creating unique opportunities for the Chinese leadership to capitalize on the changing flows of internationally mobile top talent. I am, of course, referring to the increasing isolationism enacted by the Trump administration in the U.S.
Anecdotal evidence already suggests that some top talents are less inclined to see the U.S. as an attractive destination than even a few months ago. With President Xi Jinping positioning himself as a global leader advocating open exchange at the recent economic forum in Davos, it seems that China could make a successful, sustained effort to attract the best and brightest to its academic institutions and top business ventures.
The lingering negative impact of the Trump administration's travel ban targeting citizens of a number of Middle Eastern countries has spilled over into negative perceptions of the U.S. as a preferred destination by nationals of numerous other countries as well. This is indeed an opportune time to capitalize on these sentiments and show the world that China welcomes such talents.
In the context of the current overhaul of the country's visa system, a number of small changes could potentially result in an immediate "brain gain." The U.S. has, for many years, issued special visas to international top talents. Their O and EB1 visas are the Americans' secret weapon to attract exceptional talent.
China would probably reap significant rewards from a similar talent-based visa track, facilitating the recruitment of those individuals that would offer real benefits to the country. While some schemes have been in operation to attract top talent, they have thus far mostly targeted overseas Chinese. It appears that political developments have created the right conditions to recruit top talent more aggressively. That can only be a good thing.
Richard de Grijs is a Dutch professor of astrophysics at the Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics (Peking University) in Beijing.
Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors only, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
Flash
The Syrian army announced in a statement that the Syrian forces captured the ancient city of Palmyra in central Syria on Thursday after battles with the Islamic State (IS) group.
Capturing Palmyra constitutes a base for expanding the campaign against IS on many fronts and also helps suffocate the group's supply lines. [Photo/Xinhua]
Following a series of successful operations backed by Russian and Syrian air forces, the Syrian army and allied fighters captured the city of Palmyra and its surroundings, the army said in a statement.
The achievement came after the Syrian forces inflicted hefty losses on the IS militants, said the statement, adding that bomb squads are currently combing the city to defuse the leftovers of the IS roadside bombs and explosives.
"This importance of this achievement emanates from the cultural and historic value of Palmyra," said the statement, adding that the victory in Palmyra against IS also coincides with the victories of the Syrian army in the eastern countryside of Aleppo against IS.
"These victories deal a big blow to the terrorist group, which has started to retreat under the strikes of the Syrian army and allied forces," it said.
Capturing Palmyra constitutes a base for expanding the campaign against IS on many fronts and also helps suffocate the group's supply lines.
"The Syrian army and its allies are today more determined to continue the operations against IS and the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front as well as other likeminded groups until restoring security and stability to every inch of the homeland," the statement concluded.
The Syrian army backed by Russian air force and fighters of the Lebanese Hezbollah group unleashed a counter offensive to retake the city on Jan. 14 this year, just days after the IS militants took the city for the second time.
Last December, the group stormed the city for the second time after losing it nine months earlier to the Syrian army.
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Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir reiterated on Thursday that the new government would include all political forces, without specifying a date for the impending formation.
Al-Bashir said at a press conference that consultations are still in progress to ensure consensus on all posts and at all levels.
He vowed that the ruling National Congress Party (NCP) would give concessions to ensure formation of a government that assimilates all the political forces.
The newly appointed prime minister, Bakri Hassan Saleh, would be entrusted with the file of reformation of the government institutions, he disclosed.
Saleh was sworn in on Thursday as Sudan's prime minister.
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U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he has "total" confidence in Attorney General Jeff Sessions after media reports revealed Sessions had spoken with Russian Ambassador twice during Trump's campaign but didn't tell the Senate hearings for his confirmation.
Ahead of delivering a speech aboard the USS Gerald Ford in Newport News, Virginia, Trump told reporters he "wasn't aware" that Sessions had contact with Sergey Kislyak, the Russian ambassador to the United States.
Asked if Sessions should recuse himself from a Justice Department probe into links between the Trump campaign and Russia, Trump said "I don't think so."
"I have said that, when it's appropriate, I will recuse myself from the investigation," Sessions told MSNBC on Thursday.
Bipartisan pressure for Sessions to resign or step aside from any investigations into Russia's role in the U.S. 2016 elections is mounting as top Democrats at the Capitol, Nancy Pelosi in the House and Chuck Schumer in the Senate, are urging him to depart.
Sessions lied under oath at the Senate hearings, Pelosi said.
Schumer said the Justice Department should appoint a special prosecutor to examine the case.
Sessions spoke on the phone privately with Russian Ambassador to Washington from his office in September, said media reports Wednesday night.
Two months before the phone talk, Sessions also met with Kislayk and talked to him informally when attending an event held at conservative think tank Heritage Foundation along with 50 other ambassadors, Session's spokeswoman Sara Isgur Flores confirmed.
"It was short and informal," the spokeswoman said Wednesday night, adding that as a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee at the time, Sessions regularly met foreign ambassadors.
Sessions was not trying to mislead fellow senators when he said during his confirmation hearing that he had not had contacts with Moscow, the spokeswoman said.
"I never met with any Russian officials to discuss issues of the campaign. I have no idea what this allegation is about. It's false," Sessions released a statement around midnight in a failed attempt to count down the new wave of political storm.
However, during the Senate hearings, when asked what he would do if he learned a member of Trump's campaign had communicated with the Russian government over the course of the 2016 campaign, Sessions responded: "I'm not aware of any of those activities ... I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians."
Officials at the Justice Department said Sessions did not consider his talks with Kislyak relevant to the lawmakers' questions and did not remember their discussion in detail.
Sessions was an early Trump supporter and one of his top advisers during the New York billionaire's campaign last year.
Trump's first National Security Adviser Michael Flynn stepped down last month after it was reported that he had discussed U.S. sanctions with Kislyak in December, and misled Vice President Mike Pence about the details.
Flash
The emotional atmosphere in the United States will harm a possible restoration of relations with Russia, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday.
He made the remarks regarding a U.S. investigation into alleged contacts between U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Russian Ambassador to the United States Sergey Kislyak.
"This emotional atmosphere has led to certain opposition to the idea of establishing any dialogue with Russia. I think the negative effect is evident here," Peskov was quoted by RIA Novosti news agency as saying.
U.S. mainstream media reported earlier this week that then-senator Sessions had spoken with Kislyak twice during Donald Trump's presidential campaign last year. Sessions has been called a "top spy and spy-recruiter" for Russia by American intelligence.
The Kremlin did not know about the meetings between Kislyak and Sessions and didn't want to get involved in this "emotionally-charged" scandal either, Peskov added.
Last month, Michael Flynn, Trump's former national security advisor, resigned for lying about improperly discussing U.S. sanctions on Russia with Kislyak before Donald Trump's inauguration.
Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to stabilize and deepen bilateral cooperation amid repeated accusations that Trump's campaign illegally coordinated with Russia.
Flash
Malaysia said on Friday that it will cooperate with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to bring the perpetrators of the VX nerve agent attack at the Kuala Lumpur airport to justice.
Vietnamese national Doan Thi Huong (2nd R, in yellow) leaves the Sepang court as she is escorted with Malaysia special armed forces in Sepang, Malaysia, on March 1, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that Malaysia "does not produce, stockpile, import, export or use any" toxic weapons listed in the convention concerning prohibition of the chemical weapons.
The ministry said it strongly condemns the use of the VX nerve agent by anyone, anywhere and under any circumstances. "Its use at a public place could have endangered the general public," it said.
While the police have identified the poison used in the attack, which led to the death of a man from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), as VX nerve agent, how the material was made or whether it was imported from outside Malaysia remains a mystery.
The visiting DPRK delegation in Malaysia queried the use of VX nerve agent on Thursday, insisting the DPRK man died of heart disease and asking the Malaysian side to hand over samples of the chemical to OPCW in The Hague.
The statement did not say whether Malaysia will send samples to OPCW, but said the organization has provided Malaysia with some technical materials to assist in its investigation.
Meanwhile, a DPRK suspect arrested after the killing was transported by the police to the immigration authorities on Friday morning. Malaysia's attorney general said earlier the man, Ri Jong Chol, will be released due to a lack of evidence and will be deported because his travel documents have expired.
Most students heading to college want that classic college experience. They want the parties, the mayhem, beer pong, toga parties, etc. Weve developed a very funny idea of what college is supposed to be, even if it doesnt live up to expectations. Theres a big barrier to entry, however, for a lot of students: skyrocketing college costs. Thats why community college is becoming an increasingly attractive option.
No, living in your mom and dads house and commuting to a local two-year school isnt glamorous. Its not going to deliver that college experience youre hoping for. And youre probably going to end up in classes with all sorts of people, not just other 19- or 20-year olds who are there to party.
But it can, and will, save you a lot of money. A report from Student Loan Hero proves it.
Student Loan Hero recently published a report detailing the per-credit savings you can get by attending a two-year public community college as a part of your overall education plan. The idea is to attend community college for two years, earn an associates degree, and then transfer to a four-year school to finish up. By following this blueprint, students can save as much as $20,000 when its all said and done.
The report is filled with interesting data, but were going to focus on one aspect of it: the 10 states in which students can save the most money by attending community college. For our list, were looking only at public schools; private schools are a different matter. But in each of these states, earning a two-year degree and then transferring to a university can offer savings of more than $15,000.
Here are the 10 states that can save you tons of cash. Considering the high cost of living in state No. 4, community college is even more attractive.
10. Delaware
On a per-credit basis, students in Delaware can save $263 by taking classes at a community college rather than a four-year university. Credits at four-year schools cost more than $400 each, meaning getting an associates degree and then transferring can lead to some huge savings. Overall, a trip to community college prior to university can save $15,773, according to Student Loan Hero.
9. Vermont
Vermont is a small state with a relatively small population. That means there isnt a huge tax base to help pay for things like youd see in larger states, such as California or Texas. For that reason, tuition at four-year schools can be expensive more than $500 per credit. Community college credits, on the other hand, will run you $245 each. Total savings? $15,866.
8. South Carolina
College students in South Carolina can save $16,153 by attending a junior or community college prior to transferring to a four-year school. According to Student Loan Hero, credits at community colleges will get you about a 60% discount, running at $269 each. Compare that to a four-year school, and youre looking at $454. Overall, that presents one of the best opportunities for savings in the nation.
7. Michigan
Michigan is home to several large state schools. But that doesnt mean they are particularly cheap. Student Loan Heros report says the cost, per credit, at one of Michigans four-year public universities is more than $400. Credits at two-year schools, by comparison, average $136. Thats a discount of more than two-thirds, or 66.51% to be precise. Total savings come out to $16,230.
6. Arizona
Arizona is home to one of the nations largest universities: Arizona State University, with an enrollment of more than 70,000 students. But again, it isnt cheap. For that reason, community or two-year colleges are a great way to save some money. Average credits at an Arizona four-year school are $364 each, while credits at a community college are only $86. Total savings: roughly 76%, or $16,697.
5. Virginia
The average cost of a credit at a four-year university in Virginia is $464, one of the more expensive per credit prices in the country. That cost drops considerably, however, at two-year schools. Those credits are only $169 each still more than in other states but 64% cheaper than at an in-state public university. In total, students can save more than $17,700.
4. California
We all knew California would show up somewhere on the list, and here it is at No. 4. The potential savings offered to students who go the community college route in California are enormous. The average cost of a credit at a four-year school is $359, while a two-year schools credit will cost you only $52. Thats savings of more than 85%, according to Student Loan Hero. And it could save you more than $18,400.
3. Pennsylvania
Credits at four-year public schools in Pennsylvania are incredibly expensive. Per credit, youll end up paying $521. At a two-year school? Only $210. Thats still considerably more than at a California two-year school, but for Pennsylvania students were talking savings of almost 60%. Overall, for a four-year degree, youre looking at saving $18,652.
2. Illinois
With a markup of more than 70% per credit, Illinois four-year public universities can bleed a student dry. The average credit at an Illinois four-year school is $487, but its only $142 at a two-year community or junior college. When you crunch the numbers, going to a two-year school and then transferring can save you some serious change: $20,707, according to Student Loan Hero.
1. New Jersey
The best bargain in the country? Its found in New Jersey, where you can save more than 67% per credit by attending a community college and then transferring to a four-year university. The average cost of a credit at a New Jersey four-year school is $519, but its only $169 at a two-year school. If you ride it out until the end, youre looking at savings of almost $21,000.
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With effect from 1st March 2017, Biesterfeld International will strengthen its business activities in France and show its presence in the country. Sales activities will be expanded and strategically developed in a focused process from the existing Biesterfeld Group location in Rueil-Malmaison, Paris.
France is a very interesting growth market for us. To satisfy the requirements of our customers in the demanding pharmaceutical and food supplements industry, we will now be advising them locally, explains Lennart Hess, Sales Manager France, Biesterfeld International.
The product portfolio includes pharmaceutical active ingredients for veterinary and human medicine. For the food supplements segment, Biesterfeld International supplies a wide range of amino acids, vitamins and plant extracts. The portfolio is rounded off by comprehensive customer service and individual advice on products and applications.
Julian Miller, co-founder and CEO of Learnmetrics, pitches at Impact Engine Demo Day in 2014. Four employees say theyve filed wage claims against the company after they say Learnmetrics stopped paying them in October. (Phil Velasquez / Blue Sky / 2014)
Employees who have worked for Chicago-based education technology startup Learnmetrics say the company owes them tens of thousands of dollars in unpaid wages.
The company, based at the Merchandise Mart tech hub 1871, sells a platform that helps educators monitor school, department and student progress and performance. The company has raised more than $2 million in funding from investors including Hyde Park Venture Partners, Ringleader Ventures and Educated Capital, according to research firm PitchBook Data. It also graduated from startup accelerator Impact Engine, which later reorganized as a venture fund.
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But four employees say they've filed wage claims against the company after they say Learnmetrics stopped paying them in October. The employees asked to not be named based on legal advice or future job considerations. According to the claims, three of the employees are seeking more than $13,000 each in unpaid wages from the company.
Two of the employees say they have formally resigned from the company.
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A spokesman for the Illinois Department of Labor confirmed wage claims have been filed against the company but would not comment further.
"We are a startup," co-founder and CEO Julian Miller wrote in an email to Blue Sky Wednesday. "Startups often hit cash crunches. We've been working on a resolution, which is at hand and we expect the matter to be fully resolved in the next few days. As a company, we are sorry that it came to this, but we're committed to resolving it, learning from it, and becoming a better company on the other side of it."
According to PitchBook, Learnmetrics employs 15 people. Miller did not respond to requests for comment on funding or current employee count.
A spokesman for 1871 said the organization does not comment on ongoing matters involving member companies and their employees.
mgraham@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @megancgraham
Mayor Rahm Emanuel suited up with safety glasses and a leather bib Thursday afternoon before slicing a power tool through a metal "ribbon" to officially open mHUB, a new facility for physical product innovation in Chicago.
The space at 965 W. Chicago Ave., which formerly housed Motorola Mobility, is designed to give entrepreneurs a place to develop and manufacture physical products a traditionally long and costly process and connect them with established manufacturers, venture capitalists, experts and other resources.
Emanuel joined attendees including top Chicago tech names, corporate executives, entrepreneurs and investors to officially open the space Thursday.
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mHUB Executive Director Haven Allen told Blue Sky the space is meant to address the unique challenges of an innovator making physical products.
Its not just creating the prototype its managing inventories and supply chains, and knowing how to design a product for the process in which that product is going to get made, he said. If you dont do that, you can cause the cost per unit to go way up.
Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 9 Mayor Rahm Emanuel talks with the creators of SimpleCap a universal safety needle that works with any aspirating syringe at the grand opening of mHUB. (Keri Wiginton / Blue Sky)
The 63,000-square-foot facility includes 10 labs for 3-D printing, electronics, metal and plastic fabrication and other uses, with more than $2.5 million of prototyping and manufacturing equipment. The space will also give entrepreneurs access to a community of manufacturing mentors, experts and investors. The hub was incubated out of World Business Chicago's Advisory Council for Chicagoland Manufacturing.
The space currently has about 100 members.
Emanuel told attendees the creation of a space like mHUB is an investment in the future of manufacturing.
Manufacturings days are ahead of it if you do the right things and invest in that future, he said.
mHUB, a nonprofit, has received commitments of over $8 million from industry partners including GE Ventures, Marmon, World Business Chicago, Chase Foundation and other organizations.
GE Fuse, an initiative to create and build industrial products , is another tenant. The microfactory posts challenges, like finding a new way to inspect a hot jet engine between flights, and lets entrepreneurs vie for cash prizes.
I think Chicago is really unique, Beth Comstock, GE Vice Chairman, told Blue Sky. I think just the manufacturing footprint in Chicago means I think well be able to pull some really great intellect in here youve got the students, youve got the manufacturing, the small suppliers, the big companies I think its a really vibrant ecosystem.
mgraham@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @megancgraham
A driver uses his cellphone in his car Dec. 2, 2016, along East Ohio Street in downtown Chicago. Insurers have been raising auto insurance premiums, citing distracted driving as causing a growing number of car collisions. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune)
The auto insurance industry has been raising customer premiums, citing the hikes as a necessary evil to help cover expensive claims on a growing number of car collisions involving "distracted drivers."
Smartphones, along with fancy new ways to connect with the outside world from a car, mean the problem of distracted driving is going to become a more pervasive and risky gambit for consumers and businesses. Just Thursday, General Motors said it is rolling out unlimited data plans for its cars.
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On top of higher individual insurance costs, some employers worried about getting slapped with distracted driver-related lawsuits are banning their employees from using cellphones when driving for work.
More important, distracted driving is contributing to the deaths of thousands of people, many of them teenagers, and is a growing public health concern.
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"The proliferation of new technology is increasing so rapidly that the ways we can be distracted are infinitely higher," says Maureen Vogel, spokeswoman for the Itasca-based National Safety Council, a nonprofit that works with 13,000 companies on safety matters. "Before we used cellphones to text or talk. Now it's updating social media, making dinner reservations and voice dictation through the dashboard."
State Farm Insurance, the country's largest auto insurer, doesn't need to click on an app to understand what the National Safety Council is talking about.
State Farm, based in Bloomington, Ill., reported annual net income of $400 million, compared with $6.2 billion in 2015 and took a whopping $7 billion underwriting loss on its auto insurance business.
Other insurers are bracing for trouble too.
Matt Winter, Allstate president, recently told investors the company's watching for links between smartphone use and car accident frequency. "When we look at smartphone ownership statistics and smartphone use and compare that to accident frequency, the correlation is striking," he said.
Employers are also apprehensive.
The National Safety Council is recommending companies ban the use of cellphones for employees driving during work hours.
Already, over 469 employers nationwide have adopted the cellphone embargo and more are expected to follow.
This year, Minnesota-based Cargill became one of the biggest companies to go cellphone cold turkey. Employees who break the rules could be disciplined by management.
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Bosses worried the cellphone prohibition will crimp worker productivity shouldn't fret about it, says the council. It found only 1 percent of the 469 companies surveyed said the ban hurt employee productivity, even for salespeople who often use their cars as rolling offices.
Nationally, nearly 3,000 people died from distracted driving in 2014, according to the latest government transportation data.
Still, we probably don't know the full extent of the problem because distracted driver-related incidents often go underreported, experts say.
In some cases, those involved don't own up to being unfocused while driving so it doesn't make the police report. Or it may not be illegal to use a smartphone or some other device while driving, so it isn't officially documented.
Defenders of smartphones argue that distracted driving can be blamed on many other things: Fiddling with the radio, eating while driving, talking to passengers and even sprucing up by doing some personal grooming.
For sure, all that goes on.
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While traveling along the Kennedy Expressway a few years ago, I saw a man driving while brushing his teeth.
I'm not sure that's illegal in Illinois, but a 2013 state law prohibits talking into a hand-held cellphone while behind the wheel. Illinois also bans texting while driving.
But you wouldn't know it when you're out on the streets.
Despite such tough measures, how many drivers do we see chatting away on cellphones or looking down to text message while in the full swing of traffic?
Maybe you are one of them. After all, who hasn't stolen a glance at an email or riffed off a text message while lurching through a bumper-to-bumper drive?
"Anecdotally, all you have to do is look around to see how big the problem is," says the safety council's Vogel.
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True enough.
But it's pretty dumb.
After all, connecting with the information superhighway, while driving down a real one, can take a pretty big toll on everyone.
roreed@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @reedtribbiz
The U.S. Department of Transportation has put on hold a proposal requiring airlines to do a more thorough job of disclosing the fees charged to passengers.
The rule, proposed Jan. 19, would require airlines and ticket agents to display checked and carry-on bag fees from the start of the booking process, making it easier for consumers to compare the full cost of an airfare with fees.
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The process of collecting public comments on the proposal has been indefinitely suspended to "allow the President's appointees the opportunity to review and consider this action," Transportation Department officials said in a Federal Register filing Thursday.
Transportation Department officials also suspended comments on a request for information regarding whether it should regulate how airlines share information about flights and fares with online travel agencies. Websites raised concerns that consumers weren't seeing all their choices when shopping for tickets.
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The Obama administration announced plans for several consumer-protection rules for air travelers last fall, including more accurate reporting of on-time arrival rates and bag fee refunds if bags arrive "substantially delayed."
Airline industry trade group Airlines for America applauded the Transportation Department's decision.
"We applaud Secretary (Elaine) Chao's leadership today and look forward to an era of smarter regulation that protects consumers from unfair practices, but does not step in when action is not warranted," Airlines for America President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio said in a news release.
The Transportation Department also granted Airlines for America and Delta Air Lines' request for a delay in implementing a separate regulation requiring airlines disclose when they mishandle wheelchairs and motorized scooters for the disabled, the agency said in another Thursday filing. The rule will now take effect Jan. 1, 2019, one year later than planned.
lzumbach@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @laurenzumbach
Chicago The founder of a suburban Chicago technology company has been sentenced to nine years in prison for a scheme that bilked investors out of $9 million.
Seventy-one-year-old Gregory Webb was sentenced Wednesday by a federal judge in Chicago.
The founder and chief executive officer of Elk Grove Village-based InfrAegis Inc. was convicted last year of nine counts of mail and wire fraud.
Federal prosecutors say he defrauded more than 200 investors, including Chicago firefighters and other first-responders, through his company.
Webb had portrayed the company as a thriving business on the verge of signing billion-dollar contracts with the city of Chicago and government agencies and municipalities worldwide. But prosecutors say there were no pending contracts and none of the company's products were fully developed or tested.
PricewaterhouseCoopers's epic screw-up at the Oscars could carry a high cost if jurors arrive at a malpractice trial next week suspecting the global accounting firm is error-prone.
Until a PwC accountant handed Warren Beatty the wrong envelope for the Best Picture award, its lawyers only had to worry about adversary MF Global Holdings. Now, PwC's attorneys will also be concerned that jurors who watched the Feb. 26 awards ceremony will begin the trial doubting the firm's expertise, jury consultants said.
That's particularly worrisome in a case where New York-based PwC is accused of contributing to the 2011 collapse of MF Global, the New York brokerage formerly run by Jon Corzine. MF Global is seeking as much as $3 billion.
"The MF Global meltdown is entirely unrelated to what happened at the Oscars," said Leticia Ostler, a jury consultant in San Diego. Yet jurors may ask "what's to say they're not making the same mistake in other areas?"
Richard Marooney, a lawyer for PwC, declined through a spokesman to comment on how PwC's lawyers will handle the Oscars issue.
PwC accountants Brian Cullinan and Martha Ruiz were backstage at the Oscars, tasked with safeguarding the envelopes with the names of the winners and handed over the wrong one, triggering a globally televised fiasco. The firm, which has collected and counted votes since 1935, apologized for the error.
Potential jurors may have seen Cullinan on the cover of the New York Post or the Daily News, the city's two tabloid newspapers, smiling broadly in his tuxedo and holding a PwC briefcase. A Post headline called him "The Twit who blew the Oscars." A Daily News article began, "Don't let this guy do your taxes."
"Most people know about the screw-up," said Thaddeus Hoffmeister, an expert on juries who teaches law at the University of Dayton. "I don't know if they necessarily connect it with PwC. There's a concern that you actually bring the topic up and then they're like 'Oh, I did not know that.'"
Jury experts said lawyers may snoop into potential jurors' social-media accounts to see if they've commented about the flub. And while they are instructed not to seek out information outside the courtroom, Hoffmeister said it's common for jurors to do research on the internet.
His advice: don't put millennials on the jury.
"They have more faith in Google than they do a witness on the witness stand," he said.
U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero delayed the case last month in hopes the parties would settle. They didn't. Corzine is expected to testify at the trial scheduled to start March 6 and is projected to last four to five weeks.
The trial will focus on a strategy pushed by Corzine when he took over leadership of MF Global in early 2010. Corzine had the firm make bets on European sovereign debt, financed through a type of bond repurchase agreement called a "repurchase-to-maturity" or "RTM" transaction.
MF Global claims PwC negligently signed off on its faulty RTM accounting, which in turn contributed to MF Global's meltdown. Daniel Fetterman, a lawyer for MF Global, declined to comment on the trial.
PwC says its accounting was correct and MF Global is wrongly trying to blame it for the failure of a strategy designed by Corzine and blessed by the firm's in-house accountants. Marooney, the lawyer for PwC, called the case a "lottery-ticket lawsuit," a long-shot attempt to force it to pay for MF Global's disastrous mistakes.
Archy Jamjun performs at the Truth Be Told storytelling event at the Gorton Community Center in Lake Forest on Feb. 25th. (Gina Grillo / Pioneer Press)
The ancient art of storytelling morphed into the North Shore debut of "Truth Be Told" at the Gorton Community Center in Lake Forest on Feb. 25. The event featured an urban-centered brand of intimate face-to-face storytelling, produced and curated by Scott Whitehair, creator of Story Lab Chicago and producer of the "This Much Is True" storytelling series, and co-produced by Anne Purky of Lake Forest.
The setting was the Gorton Center's Stuart Community Room with its crackling fireplace, where patrons were invited to enjoy cocktails during the telling of live personal narratives.
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"With the storytelling genre evolving on a national level, it falls directly in line with our mission to bring unique and city-centric experiences to Gorton, providing access to this growing art form without having to hop a train to the city an event that appeals to the intellect, to the emotions, and to matters of the soul," said Ann Wildman, director of special events.
Whitehair's lineup included multiple Moth GrandSLAM winners and award-winning solo artists.
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"These storytellers are some of the finest around, and we put together an intimate evening of telling to share the heartbreaking, the hilarious and everything in between," Whitehair said.
Hilary Ward Schnadt of Grayslake brought her husband Corky to "Truth Be Told." Schnadt's grandfather was an Irish storyteller in vaudeville, and Schnadt started spinning her own tales while studying at Northwestern University in the mid-1990s.
"The current trend is telling personal stories that you can certify are true," Schnadt said. "Twenty years ago, I was telling folk tales inspired by a Hmong story cloth (stories embroidered on cloth), and translating these into stories that I could tell."
The storytelling format differs from that of other theater or a play, as the performance requires speaking directly to the audience. The contemporary resurgence of storytelling gained popularity, Whitehair said, mostly through podcasts, radio shows and story slams like The Moth storytelling group based in New York City, featured on the Moth Radio Hour and on NPR.
Melissa Cook of Fort Sheridan says she likes to share storytelling with her third grade students at Greeley School in Winnetka.
"An event like this in Lake Forest is really fantastic," Cook said. "It's an opportunity to gain insight into our common humanity, and it's always comforting when you can see yourself in someone else's story."
Whitehair says the next step will be to get people from Lake Forest and the surrounding North Shore communities to share their stories on stage.
"We all want connection, and telling our stories is a good way to build empathy, to understand ourselves and each other," Whitehair said.
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Gina Grillo is a freelancer for Pioneer Press.
First the good news: Only 27 people were sleeping outside during the county's annual Point-in-Time count of the homeless conducted on the last Wednesday in January. Now the bad news: That number is the highest on record dating back a dozen years.
The answers to why those 27 were outdoors on a cold night when they could have been in a PADS shelter are varied, but the number of Lake Countians using PADS facilities has been declining, from 497 in 2013 to 299 in 2016. The number of homeless statewide also has decreased, from 14,009 in 2011 to 11,590 last year.
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As Waukegan has taken steps to make it harder for homeless people who had been using a PADS facility in the city, there is an ongoing legal battle over proposed housing for the unsheltered near Lake Zurich.
Waukegan officials temporarily pulled PADS' business license in response to complaints from owners of businesses near the facility, in the vicinity of Grand and Lewis avenues, of panhandling, loitering and littering. The license was restored, but with conditions. There are two task forces currently studying the issue to provide a better solution for Waukegan's homeless.
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But city officials aren't the only ones digging in against Lake County's homeless. In the case of the Lake Zurich plan for a homeless shelter, county officials want to turn Midlothian Manor, a former assisted-living facility, over to PADS. Current plans call for housing about a dozen chronically homeless residents. County officials have said a permanent housing facility could help break the cycle of chronic homelessness.
The county's zoning board of appeals initially allowed PADS to operate the homeless program at the building earlier in 2015, agreeing with the Lake County Planning, Building and Development Department that said the property could be zoned for government use. But the county zoning board reversed course after neighbors argued the proposed use for the building, located near single-family homes, should be classified as a group living site. That would have prohibited PADS from using it to house the homeless under the county's zoning code.
Nearby homeowners, who have been battling the Lake Zurich plan for more than two years in and out of court, say the project is well-intentioned but should be located elsewhere, i.e., not in their back yard. County officials say the property meets all building codes and zoning guidelines, while there will be on-site staff supervision.
January's Point-in-Time count -- required by the federal government every other year for grants totaling more than $1.5 million -- found homeless sleeping outside in all parts of the county, not just northern Lake County. Around 75 volunteers, who gave up a night of sleep to aid the canvass, found homeless in Barrington, Buffalo Grove, unincorporated Wheeling and, yes, even Lake Zurich.
The Lake County Coalition for the Homeless points out that, overall, 48 percent of the county's homeless are families; 8 percent veterans. Fifteen percent are chronically homeless. One in three homeless in the county is a child. Lake Zurich and Waukegan opponents of the homeless facilities seem to have jumped to conclusions about the individuals who use or will be using the facilities.
Apparently, many in Lake County have forgotten the words of Jesus in Matthew 25:40: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." It's time we help the least of our brothers and sisters.
The sign for Press Box, the concept conceived by TV show "Bar Rescue" for Wrigleyville's The Dugout bar. The switch was a disaster, the owner says. (Jonathon Berlin / Chicago Tribune)
Its not often that Cubs fans and reality TV aficionados can find a show to watch together, but that may be the case with a Chicago-based episode of "Bar Rescue" airing this Sunday.
But before you tune in, know that the Wrigleyville bar owner featured on the bar-makeover show is less than happy with the results.
You cant build a bar in five days. I dont care if youre Jesus Christ, said The Dugout owner Eddie Cressy of his experience with the television show, which airs on Spike.
"It was a complete nightmare, what he put me through," added Cressy about show host Jon Taffer.
Taffer declined to comment through a Spike spokesperson.
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The Dugout, stumbling distance between the Addison Red Line stop and Wrigley Field, is the star of the episode premiering 9 p.m. Sunday. Its the latest in the series in which Taffer and his team allegedly rescue bars across the country by overhauling everything from the decor to the menu to even the name.
A sneak-peek clip of the episode shows a fruit fly infestation and an employee using bare hands to handle a hot dog, presumably to be served to a customer, as examples that prompted the show to get involved.
"Bar Rescue" executed the makeover last fall, just weeks before I visited The Dugout for the Tribune's guide to every bar in Wrigleyville . By then, the space had already been renamed Press Box and decorated with faux ivy and giant typewriter keys, with a menu highlighting Coors Light and a hot dog.
Now, the basement bar has already changed its name back to The Dugout. Press Box, however, remains; Cressy moved the concept upstairs, into a closed pizzeria in the building. (He didn't want to invest in changing the sign again, he said.)
But if you were hoping for a watch party at either bar, you will be disappointed to learn that both are currently closed.
I had to redo all the things that Jon did wrong, said Cressy. For one, "he did a quick paint job that looked good on camera, but (he) used really cheap paint that flakes off, the bar owner said.
"They took up all my time in a 10-game home stand. It made no sense," said Cressy of the show.
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Cressy has also added an interior staircase and new finishes made from reclaimed lumber.
And forget the show's menu makeover. Cressy said hes dropped the new ham sandwich, which he said bombed, and is bringing back the bar's signature loaded tots with bacon, pulled pork, sour cream, onions, chives, tomatoes, jalapenos and cayenne pepper.
Cressy said he hopes to reopen The Dugout downstairs and Press Box upstairs March 9.
"Bar Rescue" has two other episodes set in Chicago expected to air in August. The show will not yet reveal which bars they feature in those episodes.
The Dugout and Press Box, 950 W. Addison St., 773-661-6043, www.facebook.com/dugoutchicago
lchu@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @louisachu
Every great city needs iconic foods dishes that for some reason or another become wrapped up in the fabric of a metropolis. Mention Chicago, and people usually think immediately of deep dish pizza, Italian beef and the Chicago-style hot dog. While those classics are going nowhere, it is important to note that our city's food scene didn't stop evolving in 1960. If anything, our food scene is more vibrant than before.
So what are the modern classics of Chicago's food scene?
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I thought this would be easy, but I quickly realized I'd have to set some boundaries. First off, this isn't just a list of trendy dishes on the scene right now, because many of those dishes like ramen, poke, fancy doughnuts are popular all over the country. To qualify, the dish had to have a unique Chicago stamp. That doesn't mean it necessarily had to originate here, but it did have to transform into something new.
I also didn't want to include any dishes that were just at one specific restaurant, like Avec's bacon-wrapped, chorizo-stuffed dates in piquillo pepper sauce or Pleasant House's royal pies. While both are undoubtedly great, a truly iconic food needs to break free from one establishment, inspiring restaurateurs to make their own version.
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My ultimate test was the vacation test. If someone flew to Chicago for a weekend, what would be the dishes he or she absolutely had to try here that you couldn't experience anywhere else?
This, obviously, leaves out a lot of great food, which may be flawlessly prepared but doesn't have a particular Chicago connection. For example, though we are home to an incredible number of great Thai restaurants, I couldn't think of a dish that would be new to, say, someone visiting from Thailand.
See, this is hard.
Below are my picks for the new Chicago classics, in case you're ready to move past deep dish.
Griddled double cheeseburger
Chicago restaurants used to assume that the bigger the burger the better. Then Au Cheval opened in 2012, called a straightforward griddled double cheeseburger a "single cheeseburger" and stuck a steak knife through the center as an exclamation point. How'd the restaurant create such an iconic burger, when nearly every other restaurant in town serves one? By sweating the details. Both 4-ounce prime beef patties are seared until jet black, the buns are well-toasted on both sides, and a generous drizzle of dijonnaise adds a creamy, lemony tang. Mentioned often as one of the best burgers in the country (if not the world), it draws insane lines all the time. Fortunately, the style and detail-orientated construction has spread rapidly through the city. In a weird twist, this burger has a lot of similarities to the Big Baby, a double cheese burger with griddled onions that's been served on the South Side for years.
Find it: Au Cheval, The Loyalist, Maple & Ash, Johnny's Grill, Red Hot Ranch, Edzo's
No Mexican dish has been transformed in our city as much as the torta. And Xoco had a lot to do with that, using top ingredients, like this zucchini, egg and poblano combo. (Zbigniew Bzdak / Chicago Tribune)
Mexican sandwiches
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Chicago has an astonishing amount of great Mexican food, but no dish has been transformed in our city as much as the torta. This is mostly thanks to Rick Bayless, who revolutionized the sandwich at Xoco by using top quality ingredients, combining them in distinctive ways and then placing them on extra-crusty rolls warmed in a wood-burning oven. While popular, they truly took off when he opened a stall in O'Hare called Tortas Frontera, giving millions the chance to sample the dish without leaving the airport. This has inspired other restaurants, including 5 Rabanitos in Pilsen and the recently opened Quiote in Logan Square, to further the evolution. And don't forget Cemitas Puebla, which introduced the regional Pueblan sandwich specialty in 2002 and upped its game more recently when it started baking its own exceptional cemita rolls.
Find it: Xoco, Tortas Frontera, 5 Rabanitos, El Taco Azteca, Jarabe and Quiote.
Boeufhaus restaurant's 55-day, dry aged rib-eye is a prime example of how steak has changed in Chicago. (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune)
Approachable dried-aged steak
Thanks to the old Stock Yards, Chicago has basically always been a steak town, and millions of tourists help keep it that way. But the kind of beef that you'll encounter has changed drastically over the past 10 years. Thank David Burke's Primehouse (now just Primehouse), which lavished attention on the actual beef, building a Himalayan pink salt-lined aging room to get the right flavor. The pace of change sped up even more with the opening of places like Boeufhaus, which serves a stunning 55-day, dry-aged rib-eye, full of funky blue-cheese notes and fascinating minerality, in a pretension-free room with nary a white tablecloth to be found. It's not just steakhouses butcher shops like Publican Quality Meats and Butcher and Larder sell locally raised, dried-aged beef for you to cook at home. This all ensures Chicago's steak supremacy will continue for a long time.
Find it: Primehouse, Boeufhaus, Publican Quality Meats, Butcher & Larder
The creatively topped hot dogs at now-closed Hot Doug's have had a seismic influence on Chicago. (Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune)
Creatively topped hot dogs
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Doug Sohn single-handedly transformed the Chicago hot dog scene with Hot Doug's, opening up a whole new level of creativity and culinary obsession. While the Avondale restaurant closed a couple of years ago, its seismic influence still resonates in our city, from the excellent belly dog now available at Urban Belly to the duck fat dog at The Duck Inn. You can even pick up Sohn's notorious foie gras dog at Hot "G" Dog, which is run by former employees of Hot Doug's. Plus, Doug Sohn never went entirely away. Hot Doug's lives on as a small stand in the bleacher section of Wrigley Field during Cubs home games.
Find it: Hot Doug's at Wrigley Field, Urban Belly, The Duck Inn, Hot "G" Dog
The jibarito, this one at El Nuevo Borinquen in Palatine, has been embraced by Chicago, with dozens of restaurants, including many that don't serve any other Puerto Rican food, offering a version. (Rob Hart / Chicago Tribune)
The jibarito
The jibarito forgoes with one of the central tenets of sandwich orthodoxy, replacing the bread with fried plantains. It looks as if it shouldn't work, but the crunchy plantains lend a pleasing sweetness to each bite, making an excellent foil for the salty meat (usually thin slices of beef, though that's just the beginning). There's genuine debate about whether the sandwich was truly invented here by Juan C. Figueroa at Borinquen Restaurant or if it was simply an adaptation of a regional Puerto Rican dish, but there's little doubt that the dish has been completely embraced by the Chicago community. Dozens of restaurants, including many that don't serve any other Puerto Rican food, offer versions of the jibarito.
Find it: La Bomba, Papa Cache Sabroso, Cafe Central, Joey's Shrimp House
Watching an out-of-town guest suck back his or her first shot and react in genuine astonishment has become a Chicago rite of passage. (Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune)
Malort
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Sure, Marlot has been around since the 1930s, but it wasn't until relatively recently that the odd, intensely bitter wormwood-flavored drink became the unofficial shot of Chicago. Since it's almost completely unknown outside our borders, watching an out-of-town guest suck back his or her first shot and react in genuine astonishment has become a Chicago rite of passage. It's so popular now that some bars have it on tap, and local distilleries, like Letherbee, have started crafting their own versions of the infamous intoxicant.
Find it: Basically every corner bar in the city, though definitely at Scofflaw
Goose Island's Bourbon County Stout has had more influence on craft beer in Chicago and the country than any other. (Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune)
Bourbon County Stout
Craft beer has exploded over the past 20 years, but while there are a mind-boggling number of breweries around the city, no one specific beer has had as much influence as Goose Island's Bourbon County Stout. Though the year it was created is disputed, there is no question that the idea of aging an imperial stout in bourbon barrels was a completely novel idea. It put Chicago brewing on the map and still stands as one of our city's most distinctive creations.
Find it: Most well-stocked liquor stores in Chicago
nkindelsperger@chicagotribune.com
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Twitter @nickdk
What happens to the elaborate, often custom-made, dishes used at Next, Alinea, Aviary and The Office after the menus change? They're all carefully archived in a series of rooms in the West Loop that serves as a kind of museum for the restaurant group. (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)
It's like the "Raiders of the Lost Ark" storage facility, if Julia Child were in charge.
That, at least, is the impression one gets touring the suite of rooms one floor above Next restaurant, home to the various plates, props, machines and glassware that have graced the tabletops of Next, Alinea and their sibling restaurants over the years.
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Considering that Alinea will celebrate its 12th birthday in May, that Next, open since 2011, is serving its 19th themed menu and that the theatrics of the bar service at Aviary call for vessels of infinite shapes and sizes, that's a lot of stuff boxed, wrapped, crated and stacked.
"We've talked about (selling some things)," Achatz says, referencing items like the plastic, 1980s-themed lunchboxes ("Hulk Hogan," "Star Wars," "Wonder Woman," "Scooby Doo," "Knight Rider") that held the dessert course in the childhood-themed menu at Next . "We have all these lunchboxes, got them on eBay, why not sell them and turn the stuff over. And, at some point, we just said it's really fun to have kind of a museum of serviceware."
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Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 38 Chefs Grant Achatz, left, and Jenner Tomaska give the Tribune a tour of their storage area that houses every piece of serviceware used at Next, Alinea, Aviary, The Office and Roister over 11 years. (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune)
In one corner sit several bourbon barrels, which were used as outdoor tables for Next's Tapas menu (2015). On a nearby shelf are barrel staves, cut from full barrels, that held a charcuterie course for The Hunt (2013). Skis used as decorations for The Alps (2016) are tucked in a far corner; snowshoes, used for the same menu decor, stand 7 feet off the ground on a top shelf. On a lower shelf sits a pretty, divided glass plate, like a grandmother would have; it's used to hold whipped cream and other toppings for the ice-cream sundae at The Office, the bar below Aviary.
A few dozen duck decoys in various sizes have nested on another shelf stack; waiters used these to carry steamed dumplings and dim sum bites to guests at Alinea. The antique duck press, which starred in Next's inaugural Paris 1906 menu (2011) and returned for an encore with The Hunt, is here too. As we weave through the dozens of shelving units, arranged in rows to create narrow aisles, Achatz gently lifts a clear glass shaped like a bird, with a tiny opening at the end of its tail. These were used at Aviary; hard to clean, Achatz says, but "worth it because they're pretty cool."
"The only downside," he says, "is that you're drinking out of the bird's butt. But, whatever."
Achatz is leading this private tour with Next executive chef Jenner Tomaska, who worked as chef de cuisine in the Next kitchen for five years before taking the lead role last year. The two reminisce about dishes of menus past as we browse canes and walking sticks, at least one of which contains a secret flask. Trophies from countless antique-store excursions throughout the Midwest. Etched glasses, silver trays, candelabra and serviceware of a bygone age, including a hinged silver egg that opens to reveal compartments for crushed ice and caviar.
"I really like that piece," Achatz says. "We had a couple of months before we opened when we knew we were doing Paris 1906, so had time to shop for stuff like this."
#8220;The only downside is that youre drinking out of the birds butt," says chef Grant Achatz of this glass shaped like a bird, used at Aviary. (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune)
Many pieces are such snapshots of a specific time and place it's hard to imagine that they'd ever be used again. For example: the multicolored threads of alpaca wool, used during the Peruvian part of Next's South America menu (2016), which now sit tightly wound around wood planks. But sometimes, a chef will show up at the warehouse to scout for a service piece that might work for a dish he's dreamed up or, simply, to browse. An old piece may inspire a new dish.
It all looks haphazard and random maybe the Ark of the Covenant really is in that locked crate that Achatz claims is equipment for off-site events but it's actually somebody's job to ensure that it's not.
"Probably a year and half ago we hired a full-time warehouse manager (Pedro Fernandez) to keep everything organized and inventoried," Achatz says. "If we're up at Alinea and we know of a specific plate we want, we email Pedro and make a requisition, and he'll package it all up and deliver it. ... Last night, I asked for a photo of the ice shaver (used to create the opening taste of the 2016 South America menu), and we moved it up to Alinea. The only reason I thought of it was because I was down here the other day and saw it."
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As the warehouse expert, Fernandez had to not only learn the functions of all the items, but the sometimes counterintuitive names that the staffers gave them. A fearsome-looking antique sausage grinder is called "The General," for whatever reason. The delicate wire contraption that once held a single-bite PB&J the opening course of Alinea's very first menu is known as "The Squid." At least the cone-shaped ceramic sleeve, which holds a nitrogen-cooled core filled with fruit-flavored "snow," is called "The Cone."
The pieces are fascinating to look at, but the stories behind some of them are better. Why, for instance, is one clear bin filled with tubes of suntan lotion?
"That was used for aroma in a cocktail (at Aviary)," Achatz says. "We had patrons rub lotion on their hands before picking up the cocktail (a pina colada), so it would smell like vacation while they drank."
A stack of postcards, bearing a photo of a fully loaded Chicago hot dog, was part of Alinea's pop-up dinners in Miami and Madrid last year.
"We put the postcard on the table, topped by a glass monocle with a tiny cube that was a distillation of a Chicago hot dog," Achatz says. "It was fun to introduce Spaniards to what a Chicago hot dog looked like. (The cube) was Alinea-fied; it was highly manipulated and didn't look anything like a hot dog, of course, but we liked playing with that."
In these rooms, the priceless and profane share shelf space. On one table sit "super stacks," fine-china sets costing $300 or more, used to serve mashed potatoes?
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"It was a white-truffle course," Achatz clarifies. "This year at Alinea, we did a Robuchon-style potato puree with toasted hazelnuts, brown butter and shaved white truffle. We place the charger prior to the food to build mystery and anticipation; we stack the plates in the kitchen, and once the potato puree was in the smaller top bowl, immediately place a glass cloche (dome) on top, run it to the table, lift the dome and shave white truffles tableside."
At the other end of the spectrum is a "Star Trek" plate depicting actor Patrick Stewart as Capt. Picard, purchased at a resale store a decade ago and served to an Alinea manager known to be a huge Trekkie.
"We talked about serving it to Patrick Stewart when he dined at Alinea," Achatz says, "but we decided against it."
Chef Jenner Tomaska holds a plate depicting actor Patrick Stewart as Capt. Picard in "Star Trek." It was purchased at a resale store a decade ago and served to an Alinea manager known to be a big Trekkie. (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune)
Also cheap: three or four plastic Viking helmets, the kind you'd find in a pop-up Halloween shop. Neither Achatz nor Tomaska could recall what they were for. "I think it was a party," Achatz says, uncertainly.
Achatz has sourced art-quality plates from Austria, earthen pitchers from Berlin, and pieces from artisan craftsmen all over the country. But he also bought driftwood from an aquarium store, found items at Home Depot, and at least one of the platters used currently at Next was found at a Pier 1 Imports. Nothing, Achatz says, is off-limits.
"I'll walk by a storefront and see something and think, 'I can put food on that; I can use that,'" Tomaska says.
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"A lot of these items, both at Next and Alinea, are incredibly difficult to serve," Achatz said. "Not just from a chef perspective, but also a service perspective. Everything we do is pretty atypical in size and shape, and there are (challenges) in terms of scale super-expensive stacked china, and placing things on barrel staves. But it's always been our mentality that if it elevates the concept or the dining experience, we just have to figure a way to make it happen. From deer pelts to barrel staves, we just have to do it."
An antique wineglass, floridly decorated with a narrowed, tapered bowl, was served with a fine Bordeaux at Alinea.
"Certain people might turn their nose up and say this isn't a proper wineglass," he said, "but completing the concept (of the course) as a whole felt more important than putting this in a Riedel stem. We have to make those decisions frequently."
A dozen or so slipper-shaped glass bowls are the same bowls used at the late El Bulli restaurant for its iconic carrot foam dish (a course replicated for Next's El Bulli menu). "These were very expensive," Achatz says, "and hard to come by."
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"I saw one recently," Tomaska interjects.
"Where?"
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"In The French Laundry," he says. "Holding potpourri. In the bathroom."
Discussions are well underway for pieces that will be part of Next's Hollywood menu debuting in May.
"(The possibilities) are basically endless," Achatz says. "Hollywood's all about props, right? So we feel we want to try to get into that."
Achatz might go ahead and order more shelves while he's at it.
pvettel@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @philvettel
Tania Castroverde Moskalenko has yet to find a favorite seat in the Auditorium Theatre.
"I am still trying them all out," she said, smiling as she stood in the majestic theater, which was royally silent one afternoon last week. "There are, you know, 4,000 of them."
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There are 3,901 seats to be exact, but who's counting?
Castroverde Moskalenko has been the chief executive officer of the Auditorium (formally the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University) since October and there is more than enough to keep her fully occupied, a plate full of details and demands and aspirations.
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The nonprofit operation has an annual budget in the neighborhood of $12 million and Castroverde Moskalenko's job is to creatively manage its finances, programming, marketing and fundraising. But it also entails, as she ambitiously puts it, the effort "to place the theater more firmly than ever in the hearts and minds of the people of this city."
The first time she set eyes on the theater was in July, when she drove to Chicago from Carmel, Ind., a charming town of some 80,000 people north of Indianapolis, where she had for four years been running Indiana's Center for the Performing Arts, a nonprofit organization that features three theaters and the home for the Great American Songbook Foundation.
"It is a wonderful place and I was happy there," she says. "I was not looking for another job."
But she was approached about the Auditorium position, had a few interviews via telephone and then came to town for an entire July day 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for a series of interviews. "I was, I will admit, a bit overwhelmed and I started to think during the interviews that there was no way I was taking this job," she said. "There was so much work to be done."
But then she walked inside the theater.
"It was just so breathtakingly beautiful," she says. "I began to wrap my arms around it and began to understand what a privilege it would be to serve this place and this city."
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When offered the job, she took it.
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In announcing that, Charlie Gardner, chairman of the Auditorium Theatre's board of directors, said "(We) are thrilled to welcome Tania to the Auditorium. We are confident she will continue the strong and unique vision and programming that has defined the (theater)."
Added Roosevelt University President Dr. Ali R. Malekzadeh, "Tania will be working with a team of experienced and talented staff to assure the future of the Auditorium Theatre is as bright as its history."
That history began Dec. 9, 1889, with a glittering night and 5,000 "notable" Chicagoans and "Home Sweet Home" sung by Adelina Patti. The shows kept coming and coming, until the theater went bankrupt and closed in 1941. The next year it was taken over by the city of Chicago and used as a World War II servicemen's center, its stage and front rows converted to a bowling alley. In 1946, Roosevelt University acquired the building but, with no money for renovations, kept it dormant for nearly two decades.
In 1963, Beatrice Spachner (a sculpture of whom sits in the theater's lobby) created the Auditorium Theatre Council and raised nearly $3 million to bring it back to life, with architect Harry Weese overseeing the rebirth. It reopened Oct. 31, 1967, with a performance by the New York City Ballet.
There have been shows ever since, shows of all kinds. Continually undergoing refurbishment to its original Dankmar Adler-Louis Sullivan design, the Auditorium has often been called an "urban masterpiece." It is that, but also a portrait in endurance, prevailing over time and circumstances. It is estimated that more than 20 million have attended performances there.
Until very recently, Castroverde Moskalenko was not among those people.
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She was born in Cuba. When she was 6, Tania, her parents, an older brother and older sister boarded a plane from Havana to Miami, part of President Lyndon Johnson's Freedom Flights program.
"We were set to stay with my aunt in Miami but she was near a radio and didn't hear the announcement of the passenger manifests. So she was not at the airport to meet us," Castroverde Moskalenko says. "We waited and waited."
She remembers the day, "May 15, 1968," and she remembers that "we were told that we would be going to Chicago and were about to get on a bus when my aunt finally came to get us."
Her father worked in the health care industry and her mother eventually started a school transportation business; both are now retired. Tania was raised in Miami and that is where her love of music was first sparked, in the form of a white spinet piano delivered to the family's new home. Her mother sat down "She was a great and talented pianist," says Tania and started to play the music by Cuban composer Ernesto Lecuona. Tania was then 8t and she began to weep.
"This beloved music brought all of her emotions to the surface," she wrote in a very personal, revelatory essay for the National Endowment for the Arts (www.arts.gov/50th/stories/tania-castroverde-moskalenko). "At that moment, my love of the arts was born."
She explored dance and music throughout school, eventually earning a full scholarship at the University of Memphis, where she got a BFA in theater and dance. She then worked as director of the Buckman Performing & Fine Arts Center in Memphis from 1998 to 2005, moving on to become executive director of the Germantown Performing Arts Center in Tennessee.
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Then it was on to Indiana. And then the Auditorium.
She is married to Alexei Moskalenko, who she met when taking classes with a ballet company in Memphis. He was the principal dancer with that company; formerly a Bolshoi Ballet dancer, he has been in the U.S. since 1992. He works as assistant artistic director for the New York-based Youth America Grand Prix, a global network promoting and holding competitions for young dancers.
Castroverde Moskalenko has three grown children from a previous marriage and she and her husband live with their 8-year-old twins, a boy and a girl, a few blocks north of the Auditorium.
They are all happy and busy, exploring their new city. She has been especially active, meeting the other leaders of the city's cultural community, of which she has become a prominent member. Though she has yet to meet one-on-one with the mayor, she has been out and about. She must be a terrific luncheon companion, filled with charm, stories and curiosity.
"Whenever I start a job I always gain 20 pounds," she says. "Breaking bread is the best way to get to know people. It took me 48 years to get to Chicago and this theater. I sometimes think that one can't escape one's destiny but I've got a lot of making up to do."
rkogan@chicagotribune.com
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Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 122 Sophie Turner as Jean Grey, anger management student, in "Dark Phoenix." The film, the latest in the "X-Men" franchise, costars James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jessica Chastain. Read the review. (Twentieth Century Fox)
The first time "Whistler's Mother" came to Chicago, it was a sensation. It was the "Most Talked of Canvas" in the exhibition of celebrated works the Art Institute showed in conjunction with the 1933 World's Fair here, according to a Tribune headline of the time.
Now James McNeill Whistler's iconic but little traveled 1871 canvas is back for the first time since the 1950s, and it is, to hear curator Sarah Kelly Oehler tell it, a powerhouse fully deserving of its superstar status.
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"It's an extraordinary painting," says Oehler, who co-curated the "focused installation" "Whistler's Mother: An American Icon Returns to Chicago" that opens Saturday.
"It remains the most important American work residing outside the United States," the New Yorker critic Peter Schjeldahl wrote in 2015.
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How it got here is a tale in itself: In essence, according to Oehler, it was a trade for the Art Institute's "American Gothic" visiting France, where the national museums own "Whistler's Mother." But first, the work.
Viewed quickly or, more likely, summoned from a memory of having seen a reproduction of it it can look almost like an ivory cameo writ large, a sentimental portrait of an aged, austere, patient maternal figure. But look again.
There is so much more going on, Oehler says, and the artist considered the painting's ostensible subject to be almost irrelevant.
"It is interesting as a picture of my mother; but what can or ought the public to care about the identity of the portrait?" the American artist asked. Indeed, his original, full title for the painting pushed her into parentheses: "Arrangement in Grey and Black No. 1 (Portrait of the Artist's Mother)."
The public, of course, did come to care, so much so that the subject of the portrait took over the title, at least colloquially. Fueled by the painting's Depression-era visit, which included stops at museums nationwide, "the portrait of Anna McNeill Whistler has become an icon of motherhood" that spurred "a staggering quantity of critical responses, reproductions in various media, and references within popular culture," the museum says in describing this modestly sized exhibition.
Included in the installation, which occupies the museum's Gallery 272, are a 1933 Art Institute photograph showing Boy Scouts gathered in front of the canvas and a set of 1934 U.S. Postal Service stamps featuring a detail from the painting, the addition of a flowerpot, and the legend, "In Memory and in Honor of the Mothers of America. Three Cents."
"I think the rhetoric of the Depression was part of what made it so appealing," Oehler says, "his sense of American motherhood, of dedication ... That tour is part of what ramped it up into full-blown iconicity."
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Yet Whistler was an expatriate who executed the painting while he and his mother lived in London. That's a small irony. A bigger one is that the interpretation of it as a representation of the traditional belies its forward reaching tendencies. In significant ways, "Whistler's Mother" anticipated modernism.
While most people will see the work as figurative, "we're trying to help people understand that what he was doing was pretty complex," says Oehler, whose full title is Gilda and Henry Buchbinder Curator of American Art.
In the work, Whistler emphasized his painting, "what he called his sort of art-for-art's-sake aesthetic," she says. He argued "that a painting could be valuable for itself, not its subject matter. He's one of the people who helped to make that turn" in art.
He also was headed toward abstraction. "He wanted there to be no distinction between figure and ground, to sort of emphasize the surface qualities of it, the two dimensionality of it," Oehler says. "He paints this in a way that's meant to deny any sense of perspective or space. She's clearly in front of a wall but she's also very much a part of that wall."
And then there is the use of color that the painter emphasized in his original title. Remove the woman from the painting, as well as the framed image of another Whistler work, and you might be looking at one of the color field paintings to come out of the U.S. in the 1940s and 1950s. It becomes about the interplay between the gray and black of the wall, the brown of the floor.
One more key point about the "Mother": It is not shy. While "American Gothic" is smaller than people expect, "Arrangement in Grey and Black" is much bigger, occupying 25 square feet of canvas. "It has a major presence," says Oehler.
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With some 1300 of his works, the Art Institute has one of the richest collections of Whistler, a fascinating figure who also anticipated modernity's streak of self-promotion. Whistler and Oscar Wilde palled around London as dandies dispensing witticisms and, eventually, feuding.
After Wilde responded "I wish I had said that" to a Whistler bon mot at a party, the painter famously responded, "You will, Oscar, you will." Wilde, for his part, said that "Mr. Whistler always spelt art, and I believe still spells it, with a capital 'I.'"
After learning of the painting's loan here, there wasn't time to put together a major Whistler exhibition, Oehler says. So the focused installation tries to highlight the iconic painting and its meanings. Including a Whistler landscape demonstrating similar aspirations as the 'Mother,' the show features about two dozen objects and "also explores Whistler's use of family members as subjects, his abstract treatment of conventional genres such as portraiture and landscape, and the arc of his professional ambition," according to the museum.
The second time "Whistler's Mother" came to the Art Institute was also significant. In the catalog for the 1954 exhibition "Sargent, Whistler and Mary Cassatt," Art Institute curator Frederick A. Sweet argued that "Whistler now emerges as a great figure in the 'aesthetic movement' and his stature as a painter can no longer be questioned."
"The exhibition really reinvigorated interest in these three great expatriate painters," Oehler says. "It was sort of the beginning of the history of American art."
Yet the painting was bought by France in 1891 and has been primarily on display at the Louvre and then the Musee d'Orsay. It's at the Art Institute now because of another show the museum curated that traveled first to France and now is in London (where, incidentally, it has met glowing reviews).
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"This actually came about because we organized 'America After the Fall: Painting in the 1930s' last year," Oehler says, and agreed to lend "American Gothic" to the Parisian Musee de l'Orangerie as part of that exhibition's travel itinerary.
"We began speaking with the Musee d'Orsay about sending ('Arrangement in Grey and Black') as sort of an exchange of icons," she says. "One goes to Europe, the other comes back to the United States."
"American Gothic" is expected to return in June, and having "Whistler's Mother" in its place, broadly speaking, sounds like a reasonable trade. In trying to make a painting about painting, Whistler created something more enduring.
Here again is Schjeldahl, of the New Yorker, on what makes some paintings iconic: "The 'Mona Lisa,' 'The Scream,' 'American Gothic' and the best of Andy Warhol's 'Marilyns'" some of which are also at the Art Institute "all share with the Whistler the distillation of a meaning instantly recognized and forever inexhaustible. In this case, it's the mysteries of motherhood."
sajohnson@chicagotribune.com
Twitter: @StevenKJohnson
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When we were still innocent babes, pop songs prepared us for the things that couldn't be prepared for. Sex. Heartbreak. Nuclear annihilation.
Prince's "1999" urged us to get ready for two out of three. He was our coolest Cold War child, sensitive and streetwise enough to convince the masses that dancing in the nuclear twilight might even be fun. Now, as our new president blurts forth his vision for an increasingly weaponized planet, "1999" sounds disconcertingly fresh. We're a little bit closer to "over-oops-out-of-time." Old songs suddenly have new work to do.
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Pop's nuclear songbook is surprisingly thick, but its tensile strength has always been tested by the weight of our fears - fears that can feel dumb and irrational until smart, rational people start feeling them, too. So here's Philip Roth in the New Yorker back in January: "What is most terrifying is that (President Donald Trump) makes any and everything possible, including, of course, the nuclear catastrophe." Roth's 2004 novel "The Plot Against America" isn't about a farewell flash, but it does imagine a dystopia as chilling as those rendered in George Orwell's "1984" and Aldous Huxley's "Brave New World" - all of which have enjoyed a sales spike since Trump's election. Readers crave wisdom in senseless times.
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But we listen to nuclear pop for different reasons. We borrow Joe Strummer's macho courage when we sing along with the Clash's "London Calling" ("A nuclear era, but I have no fear"). We pout with Morrissey when he begs for the bomb during "Everyday Is Like Sunday" ("Come, armageddon, come"). And when R.E.M. tells us that "It's The End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)," we feel pretty fine, too.
That's because throughout the greatest hits of the apocalypse, the end rarely seems all that nigh - not even during "A Hard Rain's a-Gonna Fall," a ballad that Bob Dylan first performed a month before Kennedy announced the existence of Soviet nukes in Cuba. Oblivion had never felt closer, but the dangers foretold in Dylan's prophecy sounded far away - the stuff of "seven sad forests" and "a dozen dead oceans." Then again, that was 1962. Maybe they're closer now.
In the '80s, mushroom clouds began to sprout on MTV with numbing regularity, as if the network's entire purpose was to toughen up the children of the Reagan era through a fit of atomic hiccups. You could spot the death-bloom in videos for David Bowie's "Let's Dance," and Genesis' "Land of Confusion," and Culture Club's "The War Song," and Time Zone's "World Destruction," and Donald Fagen's "New Frontier," and Fishbone's "Party at Ground Zero" - a song that cheekily dismissed these torrents of dread as "a B-movie starring you."
One way to stop fearing the bomb was to laugh it away. If not that, fantasize about your invincibility. Nena's cautionary "99 Luftballons" was sung from the perspective of a survivor, while the embryonic narrator of Kate Bush's "Breathing" was preparing to be born into the ruins. That's the funny thing about nuclear winter: Life goes on, but probably not yours.
Survival is a central theme in rap music, so when a new century approached, it only made sense that rappers began declaring themselves impervious to doomsday. And while Method Man, Three 6 Mafia and others funneled end-times bravura directly into their rhymes, it was Busta Rhymes who most eagerly espoused the end the of the world, turning his first three solo albums into an informal rapture countdown. The cover of 1998's "E.L.E. (Extinction Level Event): The Final World Front" depicts the entirety of Manhattan deliquescing in atomic fire, making it the most horrific album jacket since Count Basie's "The Atomic Mr. Basie" circa 1958. As for the music itself, few rappers have sounded more defiantly alive in the face of death than Busta did in 1996 when he warned, "There's only five years left!" Don't mock the guy's miscalculations. There may only be five years left, someday. Keep listening.
Meantime, the durability of rap's most salient armageddon jam has more to do with systemic racial profiling than lingering nuclear paranoia. In the second verse of 1997's "Apocalypse," Wyclef Jean reports that Brooklyn has just "turned to Hiroshima," so with an entire borough vaporized, he flees to New Jersey, where the cops attempt to pull him over for driving while black. Amid the chaos, someone has robbed a gas station, and our hero matches the description. But it couldn't have been him - "I was at the Grammys with Brandy," Wyclef raps. "Didn't you see me on TV?" Twenty years later, the truth in this song still burns: American racism will survive the apocalypse.
Still, as sobering, thrilling and distracting as they may be, our greatest nuclear pop songs are little more than hedges against the void. We buy them up hoping that we'll never actually have to use them, like bicycle helmets, or the extra coverage at the Hertz kiosk. They feel insufficient. As they should. No one song could truly prepare us for a self-inflicted mass extinction - but there are two that bravely and generously try.
The first is "Nuclear War," a relatively obscure jazz prayer recorded by the visionary Sun Ra in 1982. Over a series of ascending piano chords, the bandleader casually draws the members of his legendary Arkestra into a devastating singalong: "It's a mother------, don't you know/If they push that button, your ass gotta go." The man sounds loose, relaxed, profoundly disappointed, but ultimately at peace with the fact that his wishes have no bearing on our planet's nuclear destiny. This is a piece of music that looks oblivion square in the eye and accepts it.
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And then there's "1999," a song that soothes our collective fear of collective death by inviting all of humanity to the greatest party ever thrown. Prince knew the score. "Everybody's got a bomb, we could all die any day," he sang, "but before I'll let that happen, I'll dance my life away." This wasn't platitudinous seize-the-day babble. It was an ecstatic expression of resistance. Still is. To resist fear is to deny the button-pushers power over your mind, your body, the lion in your pocket. And until disarmament or judgement day, it remains our only option.
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Just when you thought the subscription series at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra had settled into a predictable rut, along comes Esa-Pekka Salonen to shake things up with some enlivening blasts of new music.
The Finnish conductor and composer has, of course, been performing this kind of repertory rescue mission practically since his arrival at these concerts in 1988. Even so, the programs for his two-week March residency at Symphony Center are self-recommending for audience members who care about the music of today. The probing insights Salonen brings to the scores are value added.
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The world premiere of his own Cello Concerto, written for and performed by CSO creative consultant Yo-Yo-Ma, and scheduled for next week's concerts, promises to be one of the year's big classical events.
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Hardly less noteworthy is the unofficial mini-festival of John Adams works Salonen and the CSO are presenting in honor of America's foremost living composer's 70th birthday, an anniversary that's being celebrated all season throughout the classical music world.
Thursday night brought the first of two birthday tributes the Chicago premiere of Adams' dramatic symphony for violin and orchestra, "Scheherazade.2" (2015), with the formidable American violinist Leila Josefowicz, for whom the work was written, doing the solo honors. The weekend performances mark a CSO reunion for Salonen and Josefowicz, who collaborated for the local premiere of his Violin Concerto almost exactly six years ago.
Given the abuse, oppression and violence suffered by millions of women in many parts of today's world, Adams' subtext feels searingly timely: it's a feminist anthem beyond politics. Scheherazade, the tale-spinning "Arabian Nights" protagonist immortalized in Rimsky-Korsakov's famous orchestral suite, is reimagined here as a proud, gritty, empowered modern heroine who's not about to submit to the casual brutality suffered by her distant namesake. In fact, she fights back.
Although Adams' four movements a virtuoso violin concerto in all but name do not trace an explicit storyline, the composer's program note offers a set of images to guide the listener through the neo-romantic currents and musings of his 48-minute symphony (in which, incidentally, not a note of the Rimsky "Scheherazade" is quoted).
On Thursday Josefowicz's violin soared in aching flights of lyricism practically from the start, its voice shifting in expressive character intense, calm, pensive, animated, otherworldly as it interacted with Adams' large orchestra. There is hardly a moment when the solo instrument isn't playing, isn't asserting its musical independence over the orchestra's sometimes combative surges of sound. This is the most lushly tonal orchestral music Adams has written in years.
Adding exotic color to the orchestral palette are various-sized gongs and a prominent obbligato part for cimbalom, a kind of hammered dulcimer, whose metallic clangor lends a threatening undercurrent to the violin-orchestra discourse. Chester Englander, Adams' cimbalomist of choice, dispatched the part wonderfully well.
That said, the first two movements tended to go on just a bit too long for my taste (Adams might well consider making a few judicious trims), and its tonal melodism, while gorgeous, felt rather diffuse at times. The final two movements were, however, a knockout. The violin eventually emerged victorious over a belligerent, rhythmically charged orchestra before escaping to a sanctuary of quiet, sustained strings. The closing pages trailed off into ethereal nothingness. Pure aural magic.
Josefowicz played the long, challenging solo part from memory and did so with a ferocious technical command and commitment that are uniquely hers. Salonen and the orchestra were the ideal musical foils, a brilliant match for her leonine virtuosity. She received a stentorian ovation.
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Salonen began the program with Debussy's "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun" and ended it with Stravinsky's "The Rite of Spring." If the former work, composed in 1894, opened a crack in the floodgate of modernism, the Stravinsky, dating from 18 years later, tore it open with a vengeance.
Salonen's precise, sharply detailed performances set the musical content of these early 20th century masterpieces in high relief, as if the conductor had written them himself.
To the Debussy he applied the delicate but exacting brush strokes of a master Impressionist painter. The liquid line of principal flute Stefan Ragnar Hoskuldsson thrived within the cool lucidity of Salonen's orchestral framework.
If Salonen presented the primitive fury of the Stravinsky in a less overtly dramatic manner than some other interpreters of this modernist manifesto, his reading generated more than enough visceral excitement within its own, rather objective terms. Tempos moved propulsively, rhythms were firmly delineated, textures were cleanly scrubbed, balances carefully maintained. Those gnashing dissonances made their wonted effect within a clear, organized musical scenario they didn't have to be italicized. As always, the corporate sinew of the CSO juggernaut was a force of nature in itself, awesome to behold.
The program will be repeated at 8 p.m. Saturday and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave.; $30-$218; 312-294-3000, www.cso.org.
John von Rhein is a Tribune critic.
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Twitter @jvonrhein
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A blood transfusion is given to a patient with sickle cell anemia, a condition that about 1 in 365 black children is born with in the U.S. (Getty Images)
Researchers are reporting early success using gene therapy to treat, or even potentially cure, sickle cell anemia.
The findings come from just one patient, a teenage boy in France. But more than 15 months after receiving the treatment, he remained free of symptoms and his usual medications.
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That's a big change from his situation before the gene therapy, according to his doctors at Necker Children's Hospital in Paris.
For years, the boy had been suffering bouts of severe pain, as well as other sickle cell complications that affected his lungs, bones and spleen.
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Medical experts stressed, however, that much more research lies ahead before gene therapy can become an option for sickle cell anemia.
It's not clear how long the benefits will last, they said. And the approach obviously has to be tested in more patients.
"This is not right around the corner," said Dr. George Buchanan, a professor emeritus of pediatrics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
That said, Buchanan called the results a "breakthrough" against a disease that can be debilitating and difficult to treat.
Buchanan, who wasn't involved in the research, helped craft the current treatment guidelines for sickle cell.
"This is what people have been wanting and waiting for," he said. "So it's exciting."
Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease that mainly affects people of African, South American or Mediterranean descent. In the U.S., about 1 in 365 black children is born with the condition, according to the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
It arises when a person inherits two copies of an abnormal hemoglobin gene one from each parent. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-carrying protein in the body's red blood cells.
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When red blood cells contain "sickle" hemoglobin, they become crescent-shaped, rather than disc-shaped. Those abnormal cells tend to be sticky and can block blood flow causing symptoms such pain, fatigue and shortness of breath. Over time, the disease can damage organs throughout the body.
There are treatments for sickle cell, such as some cancer drugs, Buchanan pointed out, but they can be difficult to manage and have side effects.
There is one potential cure for sickle cell, Buchanan said: a bone marrow transplant. In that procedure, doctors use chemotherapy drugs to wipe out the patient's existing bone marrow stem cells which are producing the faulty red blood cells. They are then replaced with bone marrow cells from a healthy donor.
A major problem, Buchanan said, is that the donor typically has to be a sibling who is genetically compatible and free of sickle cell disease.
"We've known for a long time that bone marrow transplants can work," Buchanan said. "But most patients don't have a donor."
That's where gene therapy could fit in. Essentially, the aim is to genetically alter patients' own blood stem cells so they don't produce abnormal hemoglobin.
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In this case, the French team led by Dr. Marina Cavazzana focused on a gene called beta globin. In sickle cell anemia, beta globin is mutated.
First, the researchers extracted a stem cell supply from their teen patient's bone marrow, before using chemotherapy to wipe out the remaining stem cells.
Then they used a modified virus to deliver an "anti-sickling" version of the beta globin gene into the stem cells they'd removed pre-chemo. The modified stem cells were infused back into the patient.
Over the next few months, the boy showed a growing number of new blood cells bearing the mark of the anti-sickling gene. The result was that roughly half of his hemoglobin was no longer abnormal.
In essence, Buchanan explained, the therapy "converted" the patient to sickle-cell trait that is, a person who carries only one copy of the abnormal hemoglobin gene. Those individuals don't develop sickle cell disease.
"This is encouraging," said Dr. David Williams, president of the Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center.
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But, he cautioned, "the caveat is, this is one patient, and 15 months is a short follow-up."
Williams and his colleagues are studying a different approach to sickle cell gene therapy. It aims to restart the body's production of healthy fetal hemoglobin to replace the abnormal "adult" hemoglobin seen in sickle cell.
If gene therapy is proven to work, there will no doubt be practical obstacles to its widespread use, according to Buchanan. It's a high-tech treatment, and many sickle cell patients are low-income and far from a major medical center, he said.
But, Buchanan said, the new findings have now "opened a door."
The study was partly funded by Bluebird Bio, the company developing the therapy.
The results were published in March in the New England Journal of Medicine.
J.B. Pritzker's inherited billions would likely make him a serious contender for the Democratic nomination if he makes good on his threat to run for Illinois governor but he can't count on the support of all of his famously wealthy clan.
Pritzker's cousin, Col. Jennifer Pritzker, told Chicago Inc. on Friday that she isn't ready to commit.
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"If he wants to run, that's his privilege," said the 66-year-old retired U.S. Army officer, who has contributed to Democratic aldermen in Chicago but has backed Republican candidates in state-level races. "I think he and I have some differences on certain issues. Right now, I don't know where his current positions are so I'd have to look at that. I can't really answer that now."
The colonel believed to be the only transgender billionaire in the world also made her first public comments about the social media gaffe her cousin made last week, when J.B. Pritzker tweeted that people should use the opposite gender's bathroom in protest of the Trump administration's decision to remove federal protections for transgender school children.
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That idea, which J.B. Pritzker later said he had not meant literally, was roundly criticized by both sides of the divisive issue, with Democratic Party supporters of transgender rights saying it tended to perpetuate what they say are the harmful stereotypes about the trans community and Trump supporters threatening to beat up any man who went into a women's bathroom.
"I think he was trying to be supportive," the colonel said of her cousin. "I don't think he realized that informal comments on social media become world news quickly."
In an emailed statement, J.B. Pritzker said: "I have nothing but love and respect for my cousin Jennifer. While we belong to different political parties, we share a deep respect for individual civil rights. I have and always will support her."
Though Jennifer Pritzker has been an advocate for the transgender community and has campaigned against a controversial North Carolina bill that requires people to use the bathroom that matches the gender on their birth certificate, she went easier on President Donald Trump than her cousin did on the subject of transgender rights.
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"I think we can take some cheer from Trump's personal actions," she said. "He meant it when he invited Caitlyn Jenner to use any facility in his hotels. There's a YouTube of her doing precisely that, and ... she went in and did what people do there, came out and that's the end of it."
"I think he's trying to get the issue away from federal government legislating bathrooms, and I think it would be helpful if he would do more to reassure people that that is his primary objective," she added of the president.
"I think if people would just calm down, look at it in a more objective light, do some education, understand that the person going through a medically supervised gender transition is not the same as a 'peeping Tom' " that people could agree on the issue, she said.
"Knowledge dispels fear," she added.
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The colonel was speaking to Inc. at a groundbreaking ceremony for a 50-unit residential building in Rogers Park, which her firm, Tawani Property Management, is developing.
kjanssen@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @kimjnews
A man peruses the shelves of the Nablus Library in the West Bank city of Nablus this week. World Book Day is April 23. (Alaa Badarneh / EPA)
In a post-apocalyptic science fiction novel I read years ago, most of which I've forgotten, there was a lonely monk walking in the desert.
The monk wore a simple robe with a rope belt and a hood, as they did in the Middle Ages. But this was in a future time. And the plague was most likely nuclear.
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I can't remember all the details. The main thing was that his task in life was to tell people about the things that had been lost.
The desert he walked wasn't all sand dunes as in some Hollywood movie. There were rocks and thorn bushes too, and a relentless wind. I think.
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Perhaps chunks of broken asphalt were in the story, and snakes or even a Gila monster with slitted eyes sunning on a flat rock. There may have been wolves out there in the shadows, with the sun setting behind cliffs.
And maybe along the horizon, he could see the spidery black bones of what used to be buildings. Or not.
Ahead of him, there was a cook-fire and human beings huddled around. Maybe they were waiting for him, anticipating the old monk. And just maybe there was the faint smell of hot pepper rabbit stew.
At least I think there may have been stew. All this may or may not have been in that story, the Gila monster and so on. Maybe he wasn't a monk. I can't say for sure. Perhaps I'm confusing my odd scraps of post-apocalyptic science fiction.
Richard Cahan reads from his book about Richard Nickel, Sunday, April 3, 2016, in Park Ridge. Cahan spoke at the Ianelli Studios about Park Ridge resident Nickel, a photographer and historic preservationist who died in 1972 when a building he was trying to salvage collapsed. (Jon Langham / Pioneer Press)
But if you recognize it, somehow, please drop me a line and tell me the title, if there ever had been a book like this.
Why?
Because I'm curious, and as I write this, it is World Book Day in the United Kingdom and Ireland, a day sponsored by the United Nations to promote reading.
It takes place on Sunday, April 23, when many libraries are closed, in the rest of the world. But the United Kingdom and Ireland celebrate, for some stubborn Anglo-Irish reason, on March 2 and they got ahead of us and took to social media.
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How do I know about World Book Day? I saw it on Twitter.
Who has time to read books anymore?
But I did spot a World Book Day warning from a Michael Clarke, with this rather upsetting tweet about a terrifying book.
It is a book with a title so repulsive that it should have been burned to a crisp in some 451 Fahrenheit degree fire.
"Microwave Cooking for One."
"Quite possibly the most depressing book I've ever seen," Clarke tweeted.
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Quite possibly the most depressing book I've ever seen. #WorldBookDay pic.twitter.com/YhjmvOKHZ3 Michael Clarke (@Mr_Mike_Clarke) March 2, 2017
It certainly looks depressing. On the cover there is a rather primitive illustration of a misshapen apple and cherries, and a ridiculous bowl of what could be pudding. Dominating the space is a plate, and on it is a brown lump of something, bordered by limp fries.
I thought of "microwave French toast," almost retched, and then clicked elsewhere to find that breaking news about Attorney General Jeff Sessions, the evil Russian spy.
That's what we do now. We don't turn the page. We click off.
Please don't get the wrong idea or think I'm raging at technology. That's ridiculous. I love technology and the great information age.
Technology and its precious child, social media, have given air to ideas, politics, human connections and knowledge many never dreamed of. We're in a time of renaissance.
And those who once curated, or hoarded information as if it was gold have had to give it up for free to people who use it as they wish.
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Though World Book Day is about books of sorts, most children are wired to the web, always on their phones. When their data runs out, they become quite desperate and twitchy.
Will the human brain be rewired? Fear merchants shriek that our technology may alter us in ways that we don't really understand, and that we'll become a different species before we know it.
But technology also offers us new ways of thinking in frenetic, disjointed bursts, so vastly different from that monk on his desert walk.
The story was written long before human beings became half cyborg as we are now, with our electronic devices connecting us (and our thoughts and wants) to the worldwide data mining conglomerates. And the monk had no phone.
But is that important? No.
The important thing is that he walked up to that cook-fire, to that small gathering of people out there in the wasteland, people alone with their illiteracy, and perhaps their goats.
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You can see them, can't you, the scruffy children squatting around the fire, the toothless old people, the haggard child bearers, the aboriginally thin hunters in goat skins. Maybe an old tin pot of stew.
After he'd been well fed, he'd begin his service of things that had been lost, saying something like:
Chocolate bars. Green beans in a can. Pencils and paper.
He might have told them about other things they had lost or didn't know about, like Italian licorice, or beefsteaks wrapped in paper, whipped cream in a can, of soap, and perfume, and other toiletries, of electric razors and machine tools, and on and on.
In the story I've all but forgotten, I think he may have recited each thing slowly, perhaps in chant, so the others around that fire might hold on to scraps of what had been before the world and humanity had been irrevocably changed.
I assume he may also have mentioned microscopes, creamed corn, root beer floats, tractors, automated looms, phones, jet planes.
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But did he mention books?
I can't remember.
Listen to "The Chicago Way" podcast with John Kass and Jeff Carlin at http://wgnradio.com/category/wgn-plus/category/thechicagoway.
jskass@chicagotribune.com Twitter @John_Kass
Chicago Public Schools CEO Forrest Claypool stands with community and faith leaders on Feb. 14, 2017, at Lindblom Math & Science Academy in Chicago to announce a lawsuit against the state of Illinois and Gov. Bruce Rauner. (Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune)
The Chicago school board's lawsuit against Gov. Bruce Rauner and the state of Illinois over education funding faces "serious problems getting off the ground as a matter of law," an attorney for the state said in court Friday.
The state said it plans to file a motion to dismiss the case and a response to the district's request for a preliminary injunction by the end of the month.
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Thomas Ioppolo, of the Illinois attorney general's office told a Cook County chancery division judge that there are "a lot of issues of sovereign immunity, and separation of powers and whether a local entity like the Chicago Board of Education can even be a proper plaintiff under the Illinois Civil Rights Act."
"Those are all major and arguably significant threshold issues that need to be addressed first," Ioppolo said.
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In the lawsuit, filed last month, the school board demanded the state be found in violation of the Illinois Civil Rights Act for maintaining what the lawsuit called a "separate and unequal" system for funding school districts and pension obligations.
Chicago Public Schools upped the stakes of the lawsuit Monday when it warned that the school year could end June 1 nearly three weeks early and summer school programs could be cut without a preliminary ruling in the school board's favor from Judge Franklin Ulyses Valderrama.
CPS said it wants the judge to rule on its preliminary motion by May 1.
"We need to give notice to principals, to teachers, to parents who need to make plans," said David DeBruin, a Jenner & Block attorney who flew in from Washington, D.C., to represent the Chicago Board of Education in court. "These dates are imminently upon us."
jjperez@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @PerezJr
The family of an 8-year-old Chicago girl beaten and strangled last summer is suing the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, alleging the agency missed "telltale signs" of abuse.
The tortured body of Gizzell Ford was discovered July 12 in her paternal grandmother's trash-strewn Austin apartment. The grandmother, Helen Ford, 52, and her son, Andre, 29, the child's father, are charged with murder and remain held without bail.
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A 2013 Tribune investigation into Gizzell's death found that a DCFS investigator failed to spot signs of trouble after visiting the ramshackle home one month earlier while the straight-A student was being brutalized.
The newspaper also disclosed that a respected child abuse doctor who examined Gizzell weeks before she died had questioned the grandmother about a suspicious injury on the child's buttocks but did not call the DCFS hotline, according to agency reports.
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In the wrongful death lawsuit, members of the girl's family accused DCFS and Dr. Norell Rosado of failing to protect Gizzell. The suit also names DCFS investigator Shirley Contreras, who no longer works for the agency, as a co-defendant.
"All of the warning signs pointed that something was very wrong in this household and indicated that Gizzy was being abused on a regular basis," said Martin Dolan, the family's attorney, who filed the lawsuit late last week in Cook County on behalf of the girl's mother and maternal grandfather. "Because DCFS sat idle while Gizzy was fighting for her life, she lost the battle."
DCFS spokeswoman Karen Hawkins declined to comment on the pending litigation. In an earlier interview, Rosado cited privacy laws that he said prohibit him from public comment about a case. But in that interview, he told the Tribune he never failed to notify DCFS if he spotted a sign of child abuse or neglect during an exam.
Contreras did not respond to a request for comment.
The only government intervention in Gizzell's short life came eight months before her death when a Cook County judge awarded temporary custody to her father, Andre Ford. The unemployed felon lived with his mother and used a wheelchair because of a debilitating illness. Ford had argued that the child's mother, Sandra Mercado, was homeless and failed to get Gizzell to school regularly.
Mercado, who denied the allegations, lived with her father in Melrose Park, she said. Mercado said she was about to return to court to try to get her daughter back when Helen and Andre Ford called DCFS and alleged that Mercado's boyfriend had molested Gizzell an allegation that was later deemed unfounded.
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Rosado examined Gizzell as part of the ensuing molestation investigation. During the exam, he questioned Helen Ford about an injury that "looked like a healing loop mark over the buttocks," according to a DCFS report obtained by the newspaper.
Even though the doctor did not notify the hotline, his report was available to DCFS and members of a Cook County child advocacy center, which includes police and prosecutors, who should have reviewed it.
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Anger over the child's death sparked a legislative hearing in winter 2013 in which DCFS disclosed it made mistakes in recording statistics for child maltreatment deaths. The agency pulled its monthly death statistics from its website soon afterward and has yet to disclose data for the past two fiscal years.
The previous 30-year average was 77 child abuse and neglect deaths in Illinois, with about one-fourth of the cases having prior DCFS involvement.
"We don't want any more kids hurt or being killed like my granddaughter," said Juan Mercado, the child's maternal grandfather. "If DCFS had done their job, this wouldn't have happened and Gizzell would still be alive."
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Twitter @christygutowsk1
In the fall of 2011, the Cook County Board approved a sanctuary ordinance that limits ICEs ability to collect and deport people living in the U.S. illegally. (Ryan Marx/Chicago Tribune)
On most mornings, the names of people arrested and headed to bond court at Chicago's main criminal courthouse are written on paper lists tacked to a bulletin board in a hallway outside the courtroom. Anxious friends and relatives run their fingers down the sheets to make sure that they're in the right place, but they aren't the only ones scanning those lists.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents go through them by hand to find the names of immigrants who are here illegally and have been swept up into the local criminal justice system, federal officials say. That places them in ICE's crosshairs and potentially on a path toward deportation.
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That kind of primitive workaround is a reality for federal agents whose territory is Chicago, one of the largest cities to call itself a sanctuary and to implement policies aimed at defying federal crackdowns on illegal immigration a movement that has gained steam as some governments in the Chicago area express their opposition to President Donald Trump's plans to increase deportations.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel and other local politicians, saying they value the contributions of immigrants, have trumpeted Chicago's status as a place that will welcome and shield those here illegally, including by not having the Chicago Police Department cooperate with ICE.
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"You're going to be safe here," Emanuel said in a message for immigrants. "You are going to be secure here. You're going to be supported here."
Here, sanctuary city status means ICE agents will get limited if any cooperation from local authorities, including the Police Department and the Cook County sheriff's office, which operates the jail. In fact, the number of detainers ICE has issued to the jail has dropped precipitously since the county adopted its sanctuary ordinance, forcing agents to look for the sort of workarounds they employ at the courthouse.
Julie Myers Wood, who headed ICE during President George W. Bush's second term, said she expected that the criminal justice system would continue to be a site for conflict and confusion as the federal government tries to implement Trump's new immigration policies.
"Someone is pulled over. What can the officer do? What must the officer do?" she asked. "If ICE wants to talk to that person, will they be allowed into a facility to make a determination about them?"
Other leaders in Cook County have joined the effort to shield immigrants, adding to the obstacles the government faces. Chicago Public Schools officials recently told principals to turn away ICE agents without warrants, and Cardinal Blase Cupich instructed priests in the Archdiocese of Chicago, which covers Cook and Lake counties, to do the same.
But being a sanctuary city offers limited protection to unauthorized immigrants; Chicago can't prevent immigration agents from raiding businesses in search of workers or detaining immigrants at their homes. As a result, neighborhoods have been on edge for weeks amid real detentions at O'Hare International Airport and home visits from ICE agents as well as unfounded rumors on social media about immigration checkpoints on "L" trains.
"There's a lot of preparation for the worst," said local activist Tania Unzueta, of the national Mijente organization, a group dedicated to Latino organizing and a critic of the Trump administration's immigration policies. "I've already had to have conversations with people (telling them), 'You are a priority. You are in danger. If ICE comes and picks you up, I don't know that I can get you out.' "
Cook County Jail (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)
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The Cook County Board enacted its sanctuary ordinance in fall 2011. Commissioner Chuy Garcia, who was elected to the board in 2010, pushed the ordinance after immigrant advocates and clergy told him there were problems with aggressive ICE enforcement in the county. They invited Garcia to a protest against ICE's practice of deporting people "for the most minor infractions of the law."
"People were winding up at Cook County Jail for minor tickets and infractions of the law, mainly from incidents that were occurring in suburban Cook County, where police departments were pulling people over because (of failure to use) a turn signal, in a vehicle that a mom was driving to take a child to school or to the doctor," Garcia said. Sometimes people found themselves transferred to ICE custody "and people wound up getting deported as a result of that."
The city of Chicago also took action, adopting a welcoming ordinance in 2013 that generally prohibits disclosure of an individual's immigration status and bars ICE from city facilities. As a result, police "will never ask an individual's immigration status," said department spokesman Anthony Guglielmi. Department orders do allow information-sharing with ICE on individuals who appear on lists of alleged gang members.
In both instances, local officials sought to send two messages: that immigrants who had come here illegally were nonetheless valued for their contributions to the area, and that local government was reluctant to spend the money or the resources to take on a federal responsibility.
Prior to passage of the sanctuary ordinance, ICE agents regularly worked with county prosecutors using the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System, or LEADS. Agents would thumb through sheets of new defendants' backgrounds, looking for those who could be foreign-born nationals. Those suspected of not having the proper paperwork to live legally in the United States would then be interviewed by ICE agents at the jail's intake area, and a "detainer" would be placed on people ICE wanted held if they were able to post bond.
"We would go at 6 or 7 in the morning to get people released pursuant to detainers, probably about 10 a day," said James McPeek, assistant field office director with ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations in Chicago. "Once the ordinance started, it went to zero."
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The county's ordinance seems to have had a clear effect. In the 11 months before the ordinance went into effect, ICE agents issued more than 1,400 detainers to Cook County Jail. In the most recent 12 months for which statistics are available, from October 2015 through September 2016, ICE issued fewer than 70 detainers to the jail.
ICE data for the six-state region of Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Wisconsin show that 11,786 deportation orders were issued in the year before the ordinance, and 2,326 in 2016, a decrease that could reflect national shifts in policy.
One agency that does co-operate with ICE is the Illinois Department of Corrections. From Jan. 1, 2012, through Dec. 31, 2016, the department released nearly 4,000 inmates to ICE, records show. Most 2,456 were from Cook County.
Trump has set his sights on boosting deportations. Days after he was sworn into office, he signed executive orders promising 10,000 new ICE officers and broadening the agency's directives. A later Department of Homeland Security order directed agents to remove "aliens" convicted of, charged with or even suspected of committing crimes, potentially including offenses like shoplifting or entering the country illegally.
The executive orders differed from Obama administration priorities. Under Obama, ICE focused on immigrants here illegally who had been convicted of serious crimes, were considered threats to national security or had recently crossed the border.
Now facing broader orders to deport individuals, ICE agents in Chicago are still hamstrung by a lack of cooperation and must come up with ways to identify those they want to detain.
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At Cook County's Leighton Criminal Court Building in Chicago, agents run names from posted bond sheets in the corridors and no longer get cooperation from prosecutors. Those names are fed into a system that cross-references criminal information such as fingerprints with data on everyone DHS has ever come in contact with, including those who entered the United States legally or someone abroad who applied for a visa.
If a foreign national in the criminal justice system is identified, ICE still issues a detainer even though Cook County will not cooperate and hold anyone for them, agency leaders said. What's more, agents also are not notified by prosecutors or Sheriff Tom Dart's office when someone they are targeting is released on bond, breaking with past practice, meaning they have to run names through computers available to the general public.
Those who are identified by ICE's checks often are prioritized based on their crimes. If agents learn that someone they would like to detain has bonded out of the Cook County system, they can attempt to find them at home or somewhere else in the field, which ICE contends can potentially create more dangerous arrest situations.
McPeek said agents are frustrated by a system in Chicago that, from their perspective, makes little sense.
"We could have someone we removed for assault or robbery, who served time in state custody, and we deported them," McPeek said. "And then he illegally re-entered the United States and gets arrested for a low-level offense, and Cook County says, 'Oh well, that's a very low-level offense. We're not going to honor that detainer.' "
"I mean, they don't honor any of them, but that's one they wouldn't honor even though he had a prior criminal conviction that was egregious and he got deported previously," he said.
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As it has ramped up immigration enforcement, the Trump administration has issued vague threats to punish municipalities that don't aid deportation efforts. Trump also ordered the federal Office of Management and Budget's director to look into all federal grant money currently received "by any sanctuary jurisdiction."
In a Fox News interview, Trump said he's prepared to strip federal dollars from California, for instance.
"If we have to, we'll defund," he said.
It's unclear where the federal government would cut funding, but programs such as the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program, which helps reimburse local jurisdictions for the cost of incarcerating immigrants, could be vulnerable, according to experts.
Garcia said he believes the county will hold firm against Trump's threats. The county will, however, honor warrants, a court order that someone be held as opposed to a detainer, which is an ICE request to hold someone to determine their immigration status.
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"We uphold the Constitution," Garcia said. "We do not hold people but for probable cause. Any warrant presented by ICE will be honored in Cook County by the sheriff."
The county's ordinance notes that cooperating came with a cost $43,000 a day for Cook County to hold all of the people on ICE detainers. Requests to hold people would be declined without a written agreement for reimbursement.
Officials said the question of expense is not expected to alter the county's position on the matter. Frank Shuftan, a spokesman for County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, noted that, in 2012, then-ICE Director John Morton offered to reimburse the county for costs incurred by the sheriff.
"President Preckwinkle respectfully declined the offer," he said. "It was then, and continues to be, our position that immigration enforcement is a responsibility of the federal government, not local jurisdictions or local law enforcement. Simply, the county is not mandated to serve as an immigration enforcement officer on behalf of ICE."
Whether the federal government and local municipalities escalate their dispute over sanctuary ordinances remains to be seen. Community groups have pledged to monitor ICE's new push to determine if it has a chilling effect on programs designed to aid immigrants, such as protections offered for younger immigrants by DACA, or the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals order, signed by Obama.
Mark Fleming, national litigation coordinator for the National Immigrant Justice Center, which has been critical of the new administration's immigration policies, said the office is seeing a rise in arrests.
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"And we definitely have seen a ramp-up in the apprehension of individuals who have committed a minimal crime or no crime at all," Fleming said.
ICE officials, asked if the new administration's orders were leading to deportations for less serious crimes, said they could not comment beyond pointing to the executive orders themselves.
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But from Chicago neighborhoods like Rogers Park to Little Village, organizations are holding talks and passing out leaflets telling residents not to open the doors of their homes to ICE agents without a warrant. Already, activists are seeing an effect of the administration's directives in the community.
Many immigrants who are here without authorization already don't want to call attention to themselves in any way, just out of fear, advocates said, even to the point of not reporting that they were the victim of a crime.
"There are communities that are so vulnerable that people are not willing to do anything that might keep them from staying under the radar," said Bharathi Pillai, a general civil liberties fellow at the ACLU. "They are forced to make a risk assessment."
gpratt@chicagotribune.com
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Chicago State University spent about $1.2 million to fix a failed campus heating system last month that forced a temporary shutdown of the campus, school leaders revealed Friday.
The unanticipated and untimely expense for the cash-strapped public university came after the school has struggled with its heating system throughout this academic year.
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The problem came to a head in early February when all the boilers failed and temporary boilers were installed, assistant facilities director Monique Horton told trustees at their board meeting Friday. The university is renting the equipment and still needs to purchase new boilers.
University officials previously said the campus boilers were shut down for repairs the night of Feb. 8, but until Friday, had not specified what fixes were needed or why. The university has not responded to a Freedom of Information Act request from the Tribune seeking service records, invoices and communications related to the emergency fixes.
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School leaders initially told students and faculty the campus would be closed all day Feb. 9 because of "declining temperatures in buildings." Officials then changed course, saying they were able to make the repairs sooner than expected, and classes and some services resumed that afternoon.
University trustees typically must approve spending that exceeds $250,000, but the president can bypass that rule if it is determined that immediate spending is necessary.
The campus' boilers were old and needed to be replaced, Horton said. She said the university requested $3.1 million in capital funding from the state more than a decade ago but that money was never approved.
Some of the boilers were installed in the early 1970s when Chicago State first moved to its campus at 95th Street and King Drive, and another was installed in 2005. Such equipment typically lasts 20 to 30 years, Horton said.
Trustee Nicholas Gowen, one of four new trustees appointed by Gov. Bruce Rauner in January, questioned why the university had not acted sooner to replace the aging equipment.
"So we should have known this years ago," Gowen said. "In general, my questions are based upon my concern we're not budgeting to ensure our finances are being used in a diligent manner."
Chicago State has had to address failures with the heating system several times this year. Two campus generators had to be serviced with new parts in the fall. The university's heating plant generator malfunctioned in December, requiring the school to obtain backup equipment in that case as well.
Also this year, crews have had to replace underground piping that failed and cut off hot water to the dorm and student union.
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The maintenance costs come as Chicago State has no funds to spare during the most protracted state budget stalemate in Illinois history.
Chicago State, like several other public universities and colleges, has drained cash from its savings to support routine operations as state leaders have gone nearly two years without agreeing on a budget.
As a result, Chicago State has received only about $35.5 million in stopgap state funding for the past 20 months, compared with the $36.1 million it received in 2015, the last year of full state funding for Illinois' colleges and universities. The university is at risk of ending the year with a deficit.
Chicago State has reduced costs by laying off hundreds of employees, reducing library hours and cutting spending on travel and campus supplies.
Meanwhile, Chicago State's backlog of delayed maintenance work continues to grow. More than $59 million is needed to make all the necessary repairs, replacements and upgrades, according to university documents.
drhodes@chicagotribune.com
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A pregnant 16-year-old Joliet girl has gone missing, and Chicago police are now looking for her, authorities said Thursday.
Dymon Simons was last seen Feb. 25 in the 7800 block of South Vernon Avenue in the city's Chatham neighborhood, according to a missing person's alert issued by Chicago police.
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Dymon, who lives and goes to school in southwest suburban Joliet, may be with family members in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood, or in west suburban Maywood, police said.
Dymon, who is pregnant, is 5-foot-4, weighs 115 pounds, has brown hair, brown eyes and a medium complexion, police said.
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Anyone with information is urged to contact Area South detectives, 312-747-8274.
Cook County sheriff's officials were notified Feb. 27, 2017, that Garrett Glover, 29, had been released from Illinois Department of Corrections custody after being sentenced to four years in prison Feb. 23 in a 2014 attempted armed robbery case from Country Club Hills. (Illinois Department of Corrections )
Days after a man awaiting trial on murder charges was mistakenly released on parole, the Cook County Sheriff's Office says it will no longer send convicted defendants who still have pending cases to be fingerprinted and photographed by the Illinois Department of Corrections and then immediately returned to the county jail.
The release last week of Garrett Glover, who as of Thursday evening was still the subject of an intense manhunt, sparked a war of words and finger-pointing between the two law enforcement agencies. On Tuesday, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart sent IDOC Director John Baldwin a letter criticizing the agency for releasing Glover without checking his criminal history or calling his office.
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"Either step would have immediately revealed the existence of the open murder case," Dart wrote.
On Thursday, Baldwin responded, saying IDOC relies on the sheriff's office to provide accurate information and that a search of Glover's paperwork as well as a law-enforcement database showed no holds barring his release on parole.
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"We are always willing to assist your office in whatever way we can; however, we cannot take responsibility for your office's error," Baldwin wrote.
The dispute is over the nearly 1,200 Cook County "turnarounds" defendants who have already served all of or more than the time they're sentenced to that both agencies handle each year. The sheriff's office has offered IDOC space at the county jail to process turnarounds and avoid the expense of busing them to Will County and back, but IDOC said the proposal would be too costly.
Glover was sentenced Feb. 23 to four years in prison in a 2014 attempted armed robbery case from Country Club Hills. Under the state's truth in sentencing laws, he was due to serve two years but had already spent more time than that in jail, so he would be released on parole if there were no active warrants or other charges pending, officials said.
When Glover was taken by sheriff's officers to IDOC's processing center near Stateville Correctional Center outside Joliet, the officers did not have any paperwork indicating he was being held on $2 million bail for a 2012 murder, said IDOC spokeswoman Nicole Wilson.
He was not on a list of turnarounds that officers brought either, she said. So IDOC staff reviewed the handwritten mittimus indicating Glover had been sentenced to two years and then checked a law enforcement database to see if he had any active warrants before releasing him on parole.
"By law we have no authority to hold him," Wilson said, referring to the staffers' belief that no other charges were pending. The mistake wasn't caught until Monday, when a prosecutor discovered he'd been freed, officials said.
For years, detainees with multiple active cases who resolve one of them have been sent to IDOC to be processed. In 2015, the Tribune examined the turnaround system, finding the number of inmates from local jails transferred into the state prison system and sent home the same day had tripled between 2010 and 2014, costing the state as much as $800,000 to process inmates in one year alone.
The turnaround process is an "entrenched procedure" that Dart's policy chief Cara Smith described as "lunacy."
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"We can't let public safety rest on an exchange of paper," she said, adding that IDOC should have been running a criminal history search in the law-enforcement database before releasing people on parole.
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The sheriff's office will now do its own review to ensure defendants don't have pending cases before they are released to IDOC, Smith said.
Glover is awaiting trial in the Sept. 5, 2012, shooting of Larry Porter, 25, near 87th Street on the Dan Ryan.
Porter was driving a black 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee south on the expressway when he was shot by another motorist, police said at the time of his killing. Glover, Patrick Calvin and a third man identified by Illinois State Police as Tyrone Mixon shot at Porter from inside a maroon van they had borrowed from a North Side woman Glover knew, prosecutors said when the three were charged.
Another man in the Jeep was shot, but the then-27-year-old man in the back seat, later identified as the owner of the Jeep and the target of the shooting, wasn't injured.
The sheriff's office, IDOC's fugitive apprehension team and U.S. Marshals Service are searching for Glover, officials said.
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Authorities investigating recent bomb threats against Jewish institutions across the country have arrested a former journalist who worked in Chicago and New York City, saying he was behind at least some of the threats as part of a campaign to harass a woman he dated.
The arrest appears to be the first in response to a wave of bomb threats at Jewish centers and schools across the country this year, as many as 100 across dozens of states, according to the Jewish Community Center Association of North America. Headstones also have been vandalized at Jewish cemeteries in Missouri, Pennsylvania and, most recently, upstate New York.
Juan Thompson, 31, was charged Friday with making eight threats to Jewish Community Centers. An FBI spokeswoman said Thompson is not believed to be responsible for all the threats to Jewish Community Centers across the country.
Thompson was arrested in St. Louis, not far from a Jewish cemetery in suburban University City, Mo., where 150 headstones were recently vandalized, but the spokeswoman said he is not believed to be responsible for that incident.
Thompson is a journalist who was fired from the Intercept, an investigative journalism website, for fabricating quotes and misleading colleagues to cover his tracks. In an editor's note last year, the publication said Thompson had engaged in "a pattern of deception" and wrote that he created fake email accounts to impersonate people.
"We were horrified to learn this morning that Juan Thompson, a former employee of The Intercept, has been arrested in connection with bomb threats against the ADL and multiple Jewish Community Centers in addition to cyberstalking," Charlotte Greensit, the Intercept's managing editor, said in a statement Friday. "These actions are heinous and should be fully investigated and prosecuted."
Greensit said Thompson worked at the Intercept from November 2014 until he was fired in January 2016.
Before working at Intercept, Thompson was an intern for DNAInfo in Chicago in July and August of 2013, and worked as an intern at WBEZ from May until August of 2014.
Thompson is accused of making the threats as part of a sustained campaign of harassment targeting a woman he had dated.
After their relationship ended, he began sending defamatory emails and faxes to her workplace, falsely reporting that she was involved in criminal activity and making threats to the Jewish centers in her name, according to the federal complaint. Attempts to reach the woman were not immediately successful.
In one email, a person claiming to be a TV producer for a national news organization said the woman had been pulled over for drunk driving and was being sued for spreading a sexually transmitted disease.
The woman herself also received a series of bizarre texts and emails related to Thompson from someone claiming to be his friend. One said falsely that Thompson had been the victim of a robbery and shooting, and was on life support.
The woman obtained a protective order against Thompson in August 2016 and renewed it in October and December. Law enforcement confronted Thompson in November 2016, after someone from his IP address reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that the woman possessed child pornography.
A New York police detective eventually got in touch with Thompson who claimed his email accounts were hacked and told him he should not attempt to contact the victim.
In the months that followed, Thompson began making threats to Jewish Community Centers, sometimes in the woman's name and sometimes in his own, though he claimed the woman was trying to frame him, according to authorities.
Thompson seemed to be aware of the news coverage of threats. Using an apparently hacked email address, he sent a message to the Anti-Defamation League in February 2017 saying the woman was "behind the bomb threats against jews. She lives in nyc and is making more bomb threats tomorrow."
The next day, the ADL received a call that said someone would detonate an explosive at the group's New York headquarters. Police searched and did not find a bomb.
Similar threats were relayed in various ways toward Jewish centers in Dallas and San Diego, a Jewish school in Farmington Hills, Mich., as well as the Jewish History Museum in Manhattan. A Jewish school in Manhattan received two separate threats, one of which said Thompson wanted "to create Jewish newtown tomorrow," a reference to the mass shooting of 20 children at a school in Newtown, Conn.
Thompson claimed on Twitter that the woman was stalking and harassing him, and that law enforcement had questioned him unfairly because of her. He also tweeted about the threats, seeming to condemn them. "Another week, another round of threats against Jewish ppl. In the middle of the day, you know who's at a JCC? Kids. KIDS."
The criminal complaint filed in federal court points to his Twitter page, where he rails about an ex-girlfriend he describes as a "nasty/racist #whitegirl."
Thompson's page also expresses disdain for President Trump and white people generally. "White folk are trash," he wrote in a tweet about the Oscars. He praised black women for their opposition to Trump "The only person to call Trump a fascist in the #dncdebate is a black woman," he wrote. "Of course. Black women are the root of left mvmnts."
Earlier this week, Trump condemned the recent anti-Semitic threats and vandalism, his second such condemnation, but in a meeting with attorneys general he also questioned who was behind it. His remarks appearing to suggest that it may have been the work of his political opponents disturbed some of those in the room.
Trump said that while the threats were reprehensible, sometimes it's "the reverse," according to two attorneys general at the meeting. He also said last month that some bigoted public sentiments could be traced to his opponents and "it won't be my people," but will be done to make his supporters look bad.
Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly recently pledged additional support to Jewish communities after "unacceptable and escalating threats and actual harassment directed at faith-based communities around the country, with a particular focus on threats to Jewish Community Centers."
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In a statement, Kelly had said he was directing the agency "to heighten our outreach and support to enhance public safety." As part of that, a branch of Homeland Security spoke with executive directors of the JCC association to offer more help with training and protective measures, he said.
On Thursday, the ADL said that at least 16 headstones were toppled at a cemetery in Rochester, N.Y., that it said has been used by the Jewish community there for nearly a century.
"A number of headstones were recently vandalized and toppled over at Waad Hakolel Cemetery in Rochester," New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo (D) said in a statement. "Given the wave of bomb threats targeting Jewish community centers and disturbing vandalism at Jewish cemeteries nationwide, I am directing the state police to immediately launch a full investigation into this matter."
Chicago Tribune staff contributed
Nancy Lee Carlson has been getting 400 to 500 emails a day, she says, from people who want to see or buy her rare bag of moon dust.
Awarded the bag from NASA after a yearlong court fight, Carlson, from northwest suburban Inverness, says strangers have even come knocking at her door to see the bag, which was used to store moon rocks collected by Apollo 11 astronauts.
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She hasn't decided what she's going to do with it, she said, but she certainly doesn't have it at home. The bag is now kept by a security firm in a remote location she says is unknown even to her.
She had previously kept the bag in her bedroom closet and said she intended to show it at schools and bequeath it to her grandchildren, but she says with the publicity over the case that's not practical now.
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"I'm thrilled we won," she said. "This is like the Holy Grail." But, she added, "I'm trying to be as anonymous as possible."
The bag in question is the size of a dinner plate, made of cloth similar to that used in astronaut suits, has a zipper and a rip in the fabric, and contains dark dust that NASA verified is from the moon.
Carlson, a corporate and real estate attorney and a former board member at Community Consolidated School District 15 in Palatine, bought the bag for $995 in 2015 on a government website, www.forfeiture.gov. She sent it to NASA to verify its authenticity, and when tests showed it was legitimate, officials refused to return it, saying it was rightfully the space agency's property, since they had originally obtained it and weren't aware of its sale.
Previously, the bag had been in the possession of Max Ary, who ran the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center in Hutchison, Kan., and was convicted of theft in 2006 for taking and selling items from the museum, some of which were on loan from NASA.
Federal government attorneys obtained a court order to sell some of the items recovered from Ary to pay restitution. The bag was confused with another bag that had been flown to the moon on Apollo 17 and was mistakenly sold to Carlson by auction, government attorneys said.
Carlson said she has gotten complaints that she shouldn't keep to herself a national treasure for which astronauts risked their lives. She believes she obtained the bag fairly and legally, but she was open to the idea of sharing it publicly.
"Like all children born in the '50s and '60s or '70s, I've always been interested in space, since I was a kid," she said. "This (moon landing) is what we watched on TV. I thought it was the greatest thing in the world when man finally left Earth."
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She said it will take a couple of weeks for her to decide what to do with the bag.
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"Hopefully it will be for the greater good of everyone," she said.
Officials at the Adler Planetarium and Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago said they would be open to taking the bag, but they would have to consider how it would fit into their collections. The planetarium already has a moon rock on display, and lunar meteorites, from chunks of the moon that fell to Earth, as well as meteorite dust.
The museum's Henry Crown Space Center displays the Apollo 8 module and the Aurora 7 capsule, among many other exhibits.
Michelle Nichols, the master educator at Adler, said she wasn't sure how unique the bag was, since bags were commonly used for storing samples, but said, "I find it pretty fascinating, because it gives you a sense of the scientific process. By itself it doesn't tell the whole story, but with other things, it becomes part of a science and engineering story."
rmccoppin@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @RobertMcCoppin
Hundreds of student employees at Northeastern Illinois University will lose their jobs and nearly all staff will be required to take five furlough days later this month, the latest fallout from the state's protracted budget impasse.
Northeastern will shut down the week of March 20, during spring break, as about 1,100 employees take five unpaid days off. All university and instructional services, including computer labs, the writing center and the library, will be closed. Only police and engineers will be on campus as needed, officials said.
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Illinois colleges and universities have increasingly struggled during the state's nearly 20-month budget stalemate. Illinois has operated without a full budget since July 2015, leaving Northeastern and other public campuses without regular funding.
NEIU, on the city's North Side, serves about 10,000 students.
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"This is another extrapolation of the bind that state universities are being put in as a result of the budget impasse," NEIU interim president Richard Helldobler said in a recent interview. "The state is just putting us in an untenable position. It's time for the state to get their heads around the fact that we need a budget in order to support public higher education in the state."
About 300 student workers will be out of jobs in accordance with a new state rule that requires public universities to eliminate state-funded student and temporary positions before implementing a furlough program. The rule allows universities to keep student positions that relate to health and public safety, as well as those that are part of a student's financial aid package or academic credit.
The State Universities Civil Service System established the rule this year, and NEIU is the first university affected by it.
Jeff Brownfield, the system's executive director, said that while eliminating student jobs is not desirable, it is a strategy to help prevent schools from cutting permanent employees. The agency has long had a rule that student employment cannot take the place of civil service jobs, Brownfield said.
"We're not very happy that we have to have this rule," Brownfield said. "This is not a good situation for faculty, staff or students. It was one of those rules that came about out of desperation. We have all the sympathy in the world for our campus administrators, for our students, our staff, our faculty. At one level, this is the least onerous of really bad choices. There are no good choices."
But NEIU leaders are criticizing the change, saying it is unfair to students who rely on the jobs to pay for school and to others who depend on their classmates for things like tutoring. Students are employed throughout the campus, including at the recreational center, student union and writing center, providing services used by both students and the general public.
"It's just unthinkable to me that we would do this to students," Helldobler said. "The quality of the educational experience at Northeastern will be diminished because of this rule and the services that we can really extend to taxpayers will also be impacted as a result of this rule."
The furlough program which will mean a one-week salary cut for nearly all employees is another sign of the escalating crisis resulting from the state's historic budget stalemate.
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Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and a Democratic-controlled legislature have been unable to agree on a budget, leaving all Illinois public universities without regular funding. They have approved stopgap budgets that provided far less funding than the universities had expected to receive, and no funding has been approved for 2017.
NEIU got $36.9 million from the state during fiscal year 2015, but only $30.2 million total during the 18-month period after that.
In response to the funding situation, NEIU, Chicago State and other universities have laid off hundreds of employees, cut travel and other expenses, delayed maintenance projects and dipped into reserves.
Northeastern also implemented a furlough program last year that required employees to take one unpaid day off for each of six weeks, and university officials are warning that additional furlough days will be inevitable this year without "adequate state funding soon."
"As hard as this is for folks to go through, I think it's just a sign of how much worse things are going to be if it keeps going this way," said David DeThorne, an attorney for the civil service system.
NEIU spokesman Michael Hines said he was unable to provide an estimated cost savings from the furlough program.
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"We're confident that it will be enough to keep us afloat," he said.
In response to NEIU's announcement Friday, University Professionals of Illinois President John Miller blamed Rauner's "failed leadership and demand that his political agenda be passed before our students and universities receive funding."
"This is the second consecutive year where the university furloughed the hard-working staff and faculty to simply keep the doors open," Miller said in a statement. "Our students, employees, and state deserve better."
Illinois Secretary of Education Beth Purvis, responding to a request to the governor's office for comment, lamented the legislature's failure to move a budget forward.
"Higher education has been negatively impacted by the General Assembly's failure to pass a balanced budget, and this decision underscores the importance and urgent need for the Senate to reach a bipartisan compromise that is good for students, job creators and taxpayers," Purvis said in the emailed statement.
drhodes@chicagotribune.com
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After two years, an investigation by federal education officials and an unprecedented finding thatPalatine-based Township High School District 211 violated federal law, administrators agreed to make the accommodation for a transgender student seeking to use of girls' locker room. (Getty Images)
Long before the Trump administration announced it was pulling federal support for transgender students in schools, a Chicago-area teenager challenged a local district on locker room access and won a case with national implications.
Identified publicly as Student A, the teen filed a complaint with federal authorities in 2013 seeking access to a girls' locker room in Palatine-based Township High School District 211. After two years, an investigation by federal education officials and an unprecedented finding that the district violated federal law, administrators agreed to make the accommodation.
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Now it's unclear whether that settlement is jeopardized by the decision announced Feb. 22 by Trump Cabinet members to rescind the Obama-era guidance that paved its way.
Citing pending litigation, both the school district and the U.S. Department of Education declined to comment. Meanwhile, attorneys for the student and for the parents' group that filed suit seeking to undo the agreement have threatened to go back to court.
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The rollback of the Obama rule which took the stance that the federal Title IX law prohibits discrimination of transgender students has stoked an already divisive issue. School districts and families alike are scrambling to understand what it could mean for them. Officials from a number of districts in and around Chicago said they have no plans to modify their guidelines that allow transgender students to use the restrooms and locker rooms of their gender identity.
None of those districts, however, entered into a binding agreement with the federal government.
So far, the access provided to the District 211 student at the center of its federal settlement has not been changed, according the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, which represents the student.
"Everything is the same, and she has every expectation it will remain that way for the foreseeable future," said ACLU spokesman Ed Yohnka. "She is happy to have access to the appropriate locker room and not be forced into a segregated locker room."
But attorneys for the group that sued District 211 and the federal government over the locker room access are encouraged by the Trump administration's move. Two days after the new guidance came down, federal officials formally notified the judge in the District 211 case about the rule reversal and called for further consideration of the legal issues surrounding the matter, court records show.
"By rescinding the guidance, the federal government is no longer in a position to pressure school districts like Palatine," said Gary McCaleb, an attorney with Alliance Defending Freedom, which represents the parents who sued. "What that means for the past agreement is something the parties are going to have to discuss and, if necessary, take back to the court. But in our view, it's a right step forward to restore the historic and clear meaning of Title IX as protecting sex and not gender identity theory."
He added: "Certainly, the federal government needs to make clear whether they're going to stand by an agreement that rested in guidance that now no longer appears to have any basis in the federal position."
The December 2015 agreement between District 211 and the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights sparked bitter debate among community members. The district risked the loss of millions of dollars in federal funding and legal action if it failed to reach a resolution.
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The agreement went beyond giving the student entry to the locker room. It required the district to consult a child and adolescent gender identity expert, revise its nondiscrimination notice and ensure the student has access to female facilities when traveling in district-sponsored events. While those conditions have been met, the agreement also called on the district to file regular reports and submit to monitoring through June 30, 2017.
Yohnka, of the ACLU, remains confident that the District 211 agreement will remain intact.
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"Frankly, if any school district in Illinois withdrew a policy that accommodated and affirmed students who are transgender simply because of the Trump administration's withdrawal of this guidance, we would seriously weigh legal action," he said. "The law didn't change, and there's no reason for the treatment of students to change as the result of that action by the administration."
Removing such a critical decision from the hands of the federal government likely will result in variability across states and even towns as to how transgender youth are treated, said University of Illinois at Chicago professor Stacey Horn, who chairs the educational psychology department.
"That inconsistent support opens up a window for these policies and procedures and protections being turned on and off at a whim, depending on who is in control, who is on the school board and what families move in to the community," she said. "The damage is that young people think, 'I feel safe. I feel supported. I can go to school,' but then all of a sudden that gets taken away from them, and what does that mean for their continued education and health? It wreaks havoc on their lives."
Sarah Schriber, director of the nonprofit Prevent School Violence Illinois, said there's already been an uptick in bullying and harassment motivated by transphobia and racism in recent months. She and a number of legal and school experts are watching closely the case of Gavin Grimm, a transgender student in Virginia who sued over access to the boys' bathroom. The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear the case this month, though attorneys for the Gloucester County school board have in recent days referred to the new guidance when asking the court to delay oral arguments.
"We're all holding our breath," Schriber said. "The guidelines themselves may become a moot issue, in a good way, and pass into the night. That's my hope."
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On Thursday, nearly 200 lawmakers filed a legal "friend of the court" brief in the Grimm case arguing that Title IX protects transgender and gender non-conforming youth. On the same day, more than 100 members of Congress including a handful from Illinois penned a letter to Trump, urging him to reconsider the reversal and to meet with transgender students and their families.
"What the president has done is put a cloud of confusion on how to interpret Title IX that would affect the most vulnerable young people," said U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky , a Democrat from Evanston who signed the letter. "What kind of person would do that? These are students, many of whom have experienced harassment and discrimination. It's just so mean, just cruel."
deldeib@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @deldeib
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio will visit Chicago on March 3, 2017, to give a speech at the City Club and to raise campaign cash. (Drew Angerer / Getty)
Welcome to Clout Street: Morning Spin, our weekday feature to catch you up with what's going on in government and politics from Chicago to Springfield. Subscribe here.
Topspin
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio will give a speech to the City Club at noon today, but as is the case when many out-of-state politicians visit Chicago, the Gotham mayor is here for another draw campaign cash.
De Blasio, who is up for re-election this year, will attend a fundraiser while in Chicago, a source with the mayor's campaign confirmed. Chicago is the first-stop on a three-day, three-city fundraising tour that also will take de Blasio to Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. and Los Angeles to collect campaign donations, the source confirmed.
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Fundraising has been a problem area for de Blasio as he and his campaign have remained at the center of a federal investigation. Last week, federal prosecutors and FBI agents questioned de Blasio for four hours as they investigate whether the mayor or other city officials traded official City Hall actions for campaign cash.
A January poll from Quinnipiac University found de Blasio with a 45 percent approval rating and with 49 percent of New York City voters saying they dont believe he deserves to be re-elected. In the same poll, a hypothetical matchup of de Blasio versus former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton found Clinton leading 49 percent to 30 percent.
As for his speech Friday, de Blasio is expected to spend a significant amount of time talking about crime-fighting at a time when Chicago has been mired in a surge of gun violence that repeatedly has been criticized by Republican President Donald Trump.
"He'll be talking about crime-fighting progress in NYC, about how the federal government must step in to help cities tackle crime through comprehensive approaches to law enforcement, education, job training and creation," de Blasio press secretary Eric Phillips said in an email.
De Blasio will not have any other public events while in Chicago, his first trip to the city since 2014 and his second as New Yorks mayor. De Blasio, however, is scheduled to meet with Mayor Rahm Emanuel Friday morning, Phillips said.
The New York mayor hosted Emanuel at Gracie Mansion in August 2014 for a U.S. Conference of Mayors event as the Chicago mayor sought to bolster his liberal bona fides ahead of his tough re-election run. ( Bill Ruthhart )
What's on tap
*Mayor Rahm Emanuel has no public schedule.
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*Gov. Bruce Rauner is set to meet with Chance the Rapper, a summit initially postponed as the governor toured tornado damage in north-central Illinois.
From the notebook
*Credit downgrade coming after July 1? A key credit ratings agency said Thursday that Senate lawmakers may look back on their inability to reach a budget agreement this week "as a missed opportunity" and warned of another downgrade without action by July 1.
The report by S&P Global Ratings came shortly after the Senate left town Thursday after spending just a half-hour on the floor. Efforts to pass a bipartisan budget proposal crashed and burned a day earlier.
"U.S. states benefit from a range of inherent advantages starting with constitutionally protected sovereignty over their own fiscal structures. But for a state to enter a third fiscal year without enacting a comprehensive budget could indicate to us an erosion in political will that renders its credit quality and fundamental fiscal conditions as inconsistent with the state's current rating," S&P said.
Illinois already has the lowest credit rating of any state in the nation and was hit with a downgrade earlier this year by Fitch Ratings. (Monique Garcia, Haley BeMiller)
*Maybe next week ...: But rather than talk about the budget, senators approved a measure to limit the use of paper and allow notices to be posted electronically. The Senate's office supply vendor cut off services last month because of a lack of payment stemming from the state budget impasse.
Lawmakers also honored the late Robert Michel, a Republican congressman from Peoria who was House minority leader for 14 years. Efforts to cut through the budget debate fallout from Wednesday were left for another day.
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Democratic Senate President John Cullerton said the budget proposal is now on hold, accusing Republicans of jumping off the plan amid interference from Gov. Bruce Rauner. Cullerton has spent the last several months working with Senate Republican leader Christine Radogno to craft an agreement, and both had been pushing for a vote this week.
Radogno's GOP senators said the proposal is far from complete, though, nodding to demands from Rauner that the plan include a permanent property tax freeze in exchange for a permanent income tax hike. The Senate proposal initially called for a two-year property tax freeze.
Democrats say they are willing to compromise but would not simply bend to Rauner's demands, noting they are willing to change the plan to allow local voters to extend the two-year freeze by three more years. Local officials and school districts are opposed to a freeze because they rely on that money for day-to-day operations.
Senate Democrats also considered rolling back portions of the proposed income tax increase after several years, though that idea was not incorporated in the latest tax legislation filed Thursday. Under that legislation, the income tax would still jump to 4.99 percent, and the sales tax would be extended to cover services ranging from parking and landscaping to pest control and massages.
"The compromise is there, the governor's got to realize this is as good as it's going to get," Cullerton said earlier this week. (Monique Garcia, Haley BeMiller)
*Because it's Friday: Ribbon cuttings are not metal. This ribbon the mayor cut with a torch is metal.
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*How they voted, Carson and Perry edition: Illinois Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth both voted against confirming Ben Carson as secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
It was the same story for the two Democrats with former Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who was confirmed as the next Department of Energy secretary.
Carson was confirmed by a 58-41 vote Thursday. Perry did a few votes better, confirmed 62-37.
*On the Sunday Spin: Chicago Tribune political reporter Rick Pearson's guests this week are Constance Brewer, chief external affairs officer, Noble Network of Charter Schools; retired national political columnist Roger Simon; and Tom Cross, chairman of the Illinois Board of Higher Education and former Illinois House Republican leader. The "Sunday Spin" airs from 7 to 9 a.m. on WGN AM-720.
What we're writing
*Rauner the Governor, Chance the Rapper to meet Friday.
*Chicago man terminated for tweet about widow of Navy SEAL killed in Yemen.
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*VP Pence to give Notre Dame's commencement address this year.
*Illinois attorney general warns CareerBuilder and five other job-search firms about age bias.
*Gary schools chief files order of protection against board member, the Post-Tribune reports.
What we're reading
*A month after it announced it would move its HQ to the Chicago area, Caterpillar gets a visit from federal investigators.
*2nd person dies from LaSalle Co. tornado; 6 twisters confirmed in northern Illinois.
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*Links Taproom named best beer bar in Illinois.
Follow the money
*Rauner's campaign reported its first contribution of $1,000 or more since the governor deposited $50 million into his own account, this one a $1,000 donation from Stephen Murrill, owner of Profile Plastics Inc.
*Track Illinois campaign contributions in real time here and here.
Beyond Chicago
*Attorney General Sessions will recuse himself from any investigations into links between Russia and the 2016 campaign.
*What will Trump budget cuts mean for federal workers?
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*Analysts say the stock market rise is related to both Trump and other factors.
*Syrian Army retakes town of Palmyra.
Chance the Rapper and Gov. Bruce Rauner speak about their meeting regarding Chicago Public Schools funding at the Thompson Center in Chicago on March 3, 2017. (Zbigniew Bzdak and Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune) (Zbigniew Bzdak And Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)
Bruce the Governor and Chance the Rapper emerged from their much-hyped meeting Friday offering different perspectives on what went on behind closed doors for 40 minutes or so in the upper reaches of the James R. Thompson Center.
The South Side rapper said he was "a little bit flustered" and was disappointed he got "a lot of vague answers" as the two discussed state funding for Chicago Public Schools .
"The kids are on the table now," said the recent Grammy winner, referring to the school district's budget crisis, who later added, "I'm here 'cause I just want people to do their jobs."
The Republican governor called the encounter a "good exchange of views" and suggested Chance could help in the broader, lengthy state spending struggle in Springfield. Rauner also suggested that he and Chance could each use the power of their positions to "get big things done," and later said "if he has a staff member or a trusted person who advises him on education issues, I'd love to talk to them too."
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"I think we agreed that we're going to talk further in the coming days, and we talked about working together," Rauner said.
The meeting came against the backdrop of renewed focus on the dire financial situation of Chicago's public school system, which is suing the state for what its alleges are violations of the Illinois Civil Rights Act. The district contends that the state is maintaining a "separate and unequal" funding system that's disadvantaged CPS.
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Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 18 Students hold up a check for $1 million dollars from Chance the Rapper, right, who holds a press conference at Westcott Elementary School in Chicago's Chatham neighborhood on March 6, 2017. (Zbigniew Bzdak / Chicago Tribune)
CPS says its financial problems worsened when Rauner in December vetoed legislation that would have provided the district with a one-time cash infusion of $215 million. The legislation had been part of a broader negotiation between Rauner and Democrats who control the General Assembly , and approval of the money was contingent on the two sides reaching an agreement on a separate effort to save money via cuts to state employee retirement benefits.
Rauner vetoed the CPS funding bill after Democratic Senate President John Cullerton publicly suggested there had never been a deal linking the two concepts. Rauner later acknowledged he was "a little emotional" when he vetoed the legislation not long after Cullerton made his comments.
Now without the $215 million, CPS has made moves to cut costs, furloughing employees and freezing school budgets. On Monday, the district announced it may make cuts to summer school and shorten the school year by about three weeks for a savings of about $96 million if the state or the courts don't intervene.
Both Chance and the governor agreed the vetoed legislation was at the center of Friday's meeting. Chance is a former CPS student and stressed the need to keep the district funded. But according to Chance's retelling, the meeting ended up becoming a background session on the politics behind the situation.
"I thought that that went a little different than it should have. I'm here 'cause I just want people to do their jobs. And I did speak with the governor," Chance said to reporters as he waited for an elevator outside the governor's office following the meeting. "...And you know, the kids are on the table right now. And we spoke for a second, it sounded like we were going to sounded like we were going somewhere. But it sounds like it's hinged on passing other bills."
Appearing exasperated, the performer who was born Chancelor Bennett said Rauner had at one point asked him to suggest how the cash-strapped state should find the money to help CPS.
"He asked me where the $215 million was going to come from. You know what I'm saying?" Chance said. "And so, I don't know. I'm sorry. I'm not, like, a press person, so I don't know how to do this (stuff)."
The road to the Friday meeting started on social media, when Rauner's state Twitter account congratulated the 23-year-old for winning best new artist, rap album and rap performance at the Grammys. Chance responded by thanking the governor and saying he'd "love" to set up a meeting.
The decision to sit down with Chance came with some political risk for Rauner. The rapper has a history of criticizing government and speaking out against politicians, even the one his father worked for at City Hall .
Last year, in a Billboard magazine article, Chance criticized Mayor Rahm Emanuel for his response the fatal shooting by a police officer of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald.
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"In a time of crisis he tried to be strategic, and he should have been more compassionate," Chance said in the article. "There's a larger conversation we need to have about the role of police officers, their relationship to the people as enemy or executioner, when they're not supposed to be either."
The statement came as Chance's father, Ken Bennett , was transitioning from a position in Emanuel's Office of Public Engagement to a role as senior adviser at Choose Chicago, the city's tourism arm.
The normally pugnacious mayor did not fire back at Chance's comments, and on Friday, Rauner kept it positive.
"I said, 'You've got an incredible voice, a voice speaking to young people and also speaking on behalf of young people. That powerful voice can be a voice for good and for change, for better schools and more economic opportunity for everybody in Illinois, everybody in Chicago,'" Rauner recalled saying to the rapper.
He said he later made a pitch for the two of them to work together.
"I said, 'It's an incredible opportunity to change our system. If we stood together, Chance, I have some power. I have power in some ways, you have great power in other ways. If we stood together, worked together to figure this out, I think we could get big things done and I'd be excited to do that with you, work together in the coming days to try to get good things for, especially our low-income neighborhoods, our low-income schools in Chicago and around the state of Illinois,'" Rauner said.
The governor also suggested that the two could "propose something on Tuesday." Rauner aides did not respond when asked to explain what he had in mind for a Tuesday proposal. State lawmakers are scheduled to return to the Capitol that day.
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Later, Chance took to Twitter to tell his 3.36 million followers: "The fight has just begun."
In a follow-up tweet, he promised a plan of his own.
"Chicago Public Schools and I did not lose today," he wrote. "Please don't let that become the narrative. Monday morning I'll have a plan."
kgeiger@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @kimgeiger
llinois Rep. Mike Bost argues legislation while on the House floor during a session at the state Capitol in Springfield on May 28, 2014. (Seth Perlman / AP)
CARBONDALE, Ill. An Illinois congressman compared town hall meetings, which for many Republicans have turned into raucous affairs, to the practice of "cleansing" by "Orientals."
Republican Rep. Mike Bost made the assertion during a meeting with the editorial board of the Southern Illinoisan in Carbondale.
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Bost visited his 12th District last week, hosting a tele-town hall instead of an in-person one.
"The amount of time that I have at home is minimal, I need to make sure that it's productive," Bost told the editorial board. "You know the cleansing that the Orientals used to do where you'd put one person out in front and 900 people yell at them? That's not what we need. We need to have meetings with people that are productive."
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In a statement Thursday, Bost said he "used a poor choice of words" in describing "coordinated disruptions" he says are taking place across the country.
Bost spokesman George O'Connor said Bost's use of Orientals was a reference to sessions during China's Cultural Revolution when individuals were publicly humiliated and subjected to verbal abuse by a crowd.
"While there was no malicious intent, I regret that my words may have distracted from an important point," Bost said. "When the booing and shouting drowns out the conversation we're trying to have with our constituents, it becomes that much harder to govern."
Some Republicans in Congress have participated in rowdy town halls in which crowds have expressed concerns about President Donald Trump's policies. A few, like Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, have been shouted down and booed.
Bost described the town halls as "out of control, which means you don't actually get to talk to people and listen, and we're looking for ways to do that."
In an editorial, the Southern Illinoisan noted that the people of his district want to have their voices heard, and doing it over the phone or the internet just won't do.
It went on to say, "It is part of his job description to, from time to time, take the heat. A leader should not be reluctant to meet with his constituents personally."
In 2012, as a state representative, Bost screamed profanities and referenced the Bible during a tirade directed at powerful House Speaker Mike Madigan. The outburst, which created an internet stir, came as House members prepared to vote on a contentious pension bill without a chance for debate or amendment.
During a joint address to Congress, President Donald Trump honored fallen Navy SEAL Ryan Owens and his widow, Carryn. The president claims that Owens was "a part of a highly successful raid" in Yemen. However, numerous elements of the operation went wrong, resulting in not only Owens' death but also a score of likely civilian casualties. Feb. 28, 2017.
(Chicago Tribune)
A former journalist fired for fabricating details in stories made at least eight of the scores of threats against Jewish institutions nationwide, including a bomb threat to the Anti-Defamation League, as part of a bizarre campaign to harass and frame his ex-girlfriend, federal officials said.
Juan Thompson was arrested in St. Louis and appeared there in federal court Friday on a cyberstalking charge. He answered questions and told the judge he had enough money to hire a lawyer.
A crowd of supporters who attended said Thompson had no criminal record. His lawyer didn't comment.
Federal officials have been investigating 122 bomb threats called in to Jewish organizations in three dozen states since Jan. 9 and a rash of vandalism at Jewish cemeteries.
A criminal complaint said Thompson started making threats Jan. 28 with an email to the Jewish History Museum in New York written from an account that made it appear as if it were being sent by an ex-girlfriend.
"Juan Thompson put 2 bombs in the History Museum set to go off Sunday," it said.
Authorities said he followed that up with similar messages to a Jewish school in Farmington Hills, Michigan, and to a school and community center in Manhattan.
In another round of emails and phone calls, he gave the woman's name, rather than his own, the court complaint said. The Council on American-Islamic Relations received an anonymous email saying the woman put a bomb in a Dallas Jewish center.
Thompson, who's black, then took to Twitter: "Know any good lawyers?" he wrote. "Need to stop this nasty/racist #whitegirl I dated who sent a bomb threat in my name." He later tweeted to the Secret Service: "I'm been (sic) tormented by an anti-Semite. She sent an antijewish bomb threat in my name. Help."
But police say it was a hoax created to make the woman look guilty. Thompson also made threats in which he identified the woman as the culprit, authorities said. It's unclear why Jewish organizations were targeted.
Republican President Donald Trump suggested in a meeting Tuesday with state attorneys general the threats against Jewish community centers may have been designed to make "others look bad," according to Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro. Trump also has condemned violence against Jewish organizations.
Thompson was fired from the online publication The Intercept last year after being accused of fabricating several quotes and creating fake email accounts to impersonate people, including the Intercept's editor-in-chief. One of the stories involved Dylann Roof, the white shooter of black worshippers at a Charleston, South Carolina, church.
Thompson had written that a cousin named Scott Roof claimed the gunman was angry that a love interest chose a black man over him. A review showed there was no cousin by that name. The story was retracted.
The Intercept wrote Friday it was "horrified" to learn of Thompson's arrest.
Thompson had been accused of bizarre behavior before.
Doyle Murphy, a reporter at the Riverfront Times, an alternative weekly in St. Louis, said he was subjected to social media harassment after writing about Thompson's troubled past in the fallout from his firing at The Intercept.
Murphy said Thompson set up anonymous accounts on Twitter and other social media posing as a woman who claimed she had been sexually assaulted by Murphy. Murphy said he contacted Twitter but every time one fake account was taken down a new one popped up. He said he contacted police but there was little they could do.
"It was a nightmare, and there's not a whole lot I could do about it," Murphy said.
The Federal Communications Commission said Friday it will grant an emergency waiver allowing Jewish community centers and their phone carriers to track the numbers of callers who make threats, even if the callers try to block the numbers. It said Democratic U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer had requested such a waiver earlier in the week.
According to the criminal complaint, Thompson and the ex-girlfriend, a social worker, broke up last summer. The following day, her boss received an email purporting to be from a national news organization saying she'd been pulled over for drunken driving.
The harassment got worse, authorities said. She received an anonymous email with nude photos of herself and a threat to release them. Her company, a nonprofit that works to end homelessness, got faxes saying she was anti-Semitic. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children got a note saying she watched child porn.
Thompson's IP address was used for the emails, but he told police his computer had been hacked, the complaint said.
The ADL said Thompson had been on its radar since he fabricated the story about Roof. According to ADL research, Thompson also claimed he wanted to dismantle the system of "racial supremacy and greedy capitalism that is stacked against us." He said he was going to run for mayor of St. Louis to "fight back against Trumpian fascism and socio-economic terrorism."
FBI Director James Comey met with Jewish community leaders Friday to discuss the recent threats, the agency said.
University City, Missouri, police Lt. Fredrick Lemons told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that detectives will question Thompson about the 154 headstones toppled last month at a Jewish cemetery there.
Associated Press writers Jim Salter in St. Louis, Michael Balsamo in Los Angeles and Jake Pearson and Verena Dobnik in New York contributed to this report.
BRUSSELS A radical Polish European Parliament lawmaker has launched another sexist tirade, calling it a "20th-century stereotype that women have the same intellectual potential as men," and that the stereotype "must be destroyed because it is not true."
Janusz Korwin-Mikke's insults on Friday in Warsaw came two days after he told the European parliament that "women must earn less than men because they are weaker, they are smaller, they are less intelligent."
The president of the EU parliament opened an investigation Thursday into those comments, for which Korwin-Mikke could face sanctions such as a reprimand, a fine or a temporary suspension.
His latest blast came after he was challenged by female lawmakers during a visit to the Polish parliament in Warsaw. Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, from the Modern party, accused him of offending women and said she would not allow him to do it again.
"There are more women than men in Poland, we're better educated, and I will not let you offend Polish women, European women and women all over the world. It's a disgrace," she told him.
Korwin-Mikke heads a small party which won just under 5 percent of the vote in Poland's last parliamentary elections, in 2015, not clearing the 5 percent threshold to get any seats.
In 2015, the foreign minister of Poland apologized after Korwin-Mikke raised his arm in a Nazi salute during a debate on plans for standardized ticketing on trips across EU borders.
Korwin-Mikke opposed the measure, and raised his hand in salute and said: "Ein Reich, ein Volk, ein Ticket," a play on the Nazi-era slogan "Ein Volk, ein Reich, ein Fuehrer." (One People, one Empire, one Leader).
He has also previously used the n-word during a speech in reference to a policy of John F. Kennedy.
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Chicago Tribune staff contributed
The 11 states suing to stop the Obama administration's directive expanding transgender student rights agreed to drop their lawsuit against the move following the Trump administration's move to rescind the order.
The states, led by Texas, sued in May, arguing that the Obama administration had overstepped its authority when it directed the nation's public schools to allow transgender students to use bathrooms that align with their gender identity, regardless of the sex on their birth certificate. The Obama administration argued that barring students from bathrooms that match their gender identity is a violation of Title IX, the federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in schools.
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Texas was joined in the lawsuit by Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, West Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as the Arizona Department of Education, Maine Gov. Paul LePage (R) and two school districts. Ten other states, led by Nebraska, also sued to challenge the directive in a separate lawsuit.
A federal judge in August issued a stay on the directive, barring it from being implemented while the case continued. The Justice Department appealed the stay, arguing that the stay should only apply to the 11 states challenging the directive.
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The Trump administration last week rescinded the directive, leaving it up to states and school boards to decide how to accommodate transgender students. The Justice Department, in a court filing Thursday, moved to drop its appeal of the stay and wrote that the states had agreed to drop the lawsuit.
Several other lawsuits involving questions about the rights of transgender students are working their way through the courts. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear oral arguments later this month in the case of a Virginia teen who sued his school board after it barred him from the boys bathroom.
With reports swirling that President Donald Trump intends sharp cutbacks at the Environmental Protection Agency, the Detroit Free Press reports that a drastic reduction may be under consideration for Great Lakes restoration efforts, which in the past have received bipartisan support.
The National Association of Clean Air Agencies confirmed for the Free Press late Thursday that an initial proposal from the White House Office of Management and Budget calls for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to be cut from $300 million a year to about $10 million.
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The cut was first reported by Rob Davis, a reporter for the Oregonian, who tweeted a list of potential cuts none of which have been finalized. Bill Becker, executive director of the Association of Clean Air Agencies, which includes the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality as a member, was unable to release the proposal but confirmed the figures. He said they could be appealed by the EPA before a budget request is finalized and presented to Congress, which is expected to happen this month.
Biggest losers in Trump's @EPA budget?
* S.F. Bay
* Great Lakes
* Endocrine disruptor research
* Education
* Chesapeake Bay
* Puget Sound pic.twitter.com/78xGL3OYVr Rob Davis (@robwdavis) March 2, 2017
Neither the Office of Management and Budget nor the EPA responded to the Free Press on the report and whether such a cut was included in a list of initial reductions under consideration.
But as Davis noted in questions posed to him on Twitter, the report was in line with other media reports this week about proposed cuts at the EPA .
The Washington Post first reported this week that the White House was looking at cutting the EPA budget from $8.2 billion to $6.1 billion and reducing staffing by 3,000 employees as it looks to increase funding for the military and slash regulations.
If the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is targeted for such a drastic reduction and it is by far the largest dollar cut on Davis' partial list from the association's data it would decimate a program that has helped pay to restore wetlands and improve water quality across the Upper Midwest.
Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio and Pennsylvania Great Lakes states that backed Trump in the election last year have all received funding under the initiative, which many lawmakers of both parties in the region have steadfastly supported even when other Republicans have moved to reduce it.
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In Michigan, it has helped to pay for improved fish habitat and a pier at Detroit's Belle Isle; altered channels and dredged river bottoms to remove mercury pollution; created artificial lakes for lake sturgeon and other fish species, and added thousands of acres of wetlands to protected areas as well as funding scores of other projects.
Jordan Lubetkin, a spokesman for the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition, said that even with a long legislative process to follow when the Trump administration submits its final budget proposal to Congress, there are reasons to worry.
From what were hearing these kinds of cuts to EPA programs and EPA staff are very concerning and very troubling, he said. The scale at which these cuts are being discussed would be devastating.
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., who helped launch the program in 2010, said in a statement: "It is outrageous that just days after delaying a critical plan to stop Asian carp, it appears that President Trump's budget is calling for a 97% cut in funding for the bipartisan Great Lakes Restoration Initiative."
The target list tweeted by Davis included deep cuts to efforts to protect other bodies of water, including Chesapeake Bay, San Francisco Bay and Puget Sound.
While the list was far from complete, it also included a $13-million reduction in compliance monitoring, the program through which the EPA ensures that drinking water standards are met.
An emergency was declared in Flint early last year because of high lead levels in drinking water after the EPAs partner in local compliance monitoring the state DEQ failed to require controls to keep lead from leaching from old pipes.
While reports of deep cuts at the EPA are worrisome to many in support of its mission and programs, any moves to enact those reductions still have a long way to go, however.
The new EPA head, former Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt, is expected to review any proposals for cuts before a budget plan is finalized. More significantly, those plans will have to be submitted to Congress, which typically drastically rewrites appropriations. And while Republicans hold majorities in both chambers, they do not have enough votes to unilaterally push a budget through the Senate.
"Whatever the president sends us does have to be scrutinized by the (House Appropriations) committee chair," U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen, R-N.J., said in a telephone town hall with constituents on Tuesday. "There is a check and balance. Congress in the final analysis will decide what these different agencies get."
Herb Jackson of the Record (Bergen County, N.J.) contributed to this report.
JANESVILLE, Wis. Vice President Mike Pence joined House Speaker Paul Ryan on Friday in his Wisconsin hometown, promising during an invite-only speech that a replacement plan for the Affordable Care Act would come within days while dismissing recent protests at Republican town halls by people opposed to repealing it.
"Despite the best efforts of some activists at some town halls around the country, the American people know Obamacare has failed and Obamacare must go," Pence told about 350 employees of Blain Supply at the company headquarters in Janesville.
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About 50 protesters jeered Pence and Ryan from across the street, waving a large flag that said "RESIST," echoing similar protests they each faced in separate stops Thursday in Ohio and Rhode Island.
Ryan is working with House Republicans and the Trump administration on a repeal and replacement plan for the health care law. Pence said Trump and Ryan have a close partnership that will benefit Americans "for generations to come."
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Pence, Ryan, Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price and Sen. Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican., also held an invite-only listening session with eight invited farmers and local business owners before taking a tour of the distribution center. Reporters were ushered out of the listening session after opening comments.
The Wisconsin stop was the second in as many days where Pence visited a private business and touted the Trump administration's plans for replacing the federal law. He visited a picture frame manufacturer in suburban Cincinnati on Thursday.
Ryan and House Republicans have been struggling to solidify support for their plans to reshape the nation's health care law, while being secretive about the details of what they're working on. Price, in his comments, said the Senate, House and administration was working together on the repeal and replacement plan.
"Our goal is to make sure no one falls through the cracks in this transition," he said.
Pence said he was consulting with Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, also the chairman of the Republican Governors Association, on the health care law replacement. Pence said he was working with Walker to ensure that the plan gives states flexibility so it "will work for the people of their individual states."
Walker met with Trump and Pence earlier in the week and with high profile Republicans on Thursday in Washington, urging them to follow his state's lead when overhauling the federal health care law. Walker rejected the Medicaid expansion under the federal law but made other changes to extend insurance to others so everyone below the poverty level is covered.
Because of his Washington meeting, Walker was unable to attend the Pence visit in his state Friday.
NEW YORK President Donald Trump, his administration under siege for contacts with Russian officials, is calling for "an immediate investigation" into Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer's own ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump's evidence? A 14-year-old photo of Schumer and Putin holding coffee and doughnuts in a New York City gas station.
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The president on Friday tweeted a photo of the two men, calling for a probe into Schumer's "ties to Russia and Putin" and called the New York senator "A total hypocrite!" Trump did not say where the photo came from, but Schumer quickly pointed out that it was taken in 2003 when Putin ventured to New York to celebrate the opening of a Russian-owned Lukoil gas station on Manhattan's west side.
Several news organizations covered that event, which drew far more political star power than the average gas station opening.
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Schumer, in his own tweet, said he would "happily talk" under oath about his meeting with Putin, which took place "in full view of press and public." He then challenged Trump to do the same. And, a short time later, he posted a follow-up in which he further poked fun at the photo, noting "And for the record, they were Krispy Kreme donuts."
On the same trip to the United States in 2003, Putin traveled to Camp David, Maryland, where he met with Republican President George W. Bush and the two held a joint news conference.
Trump's tweet came just hours after the conservative website Drudge Report made the photo its lead image. And that was a day after the photo was unearthed by the pro-Trump blog Gateway Pundit, which ran it with the headline "Where's the outrage?"
Trump targeted congressional Democrats for their encounters with Russians over the years even though the party's criticism of Attorney General Jeff Sessions centered on his failure to acknowledge his meetings when questioned at his Senate confirmation hearing and in written responses to the Judiciary Committee.
"I think he was asked a pretty straightforward question at his committee hearing and I do think he should resign," Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., said in an interview.
Trump also tweeted Friday about House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, who was among the first to call for Sessions to resign.
In his tweet, Trump linked to a 2010 photo in which Pelosi and other lawmakers, including Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, now the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, are shown meeting with Russian officials, including then-President Dmitry Medvedev and Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Trump demanded an investigation of the House minority leader. Pelosi had initially denied ever meeting Kislyak; her spokeswoman later clarified that they never had a one-on-one meeting.
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Pelosi then needled Trump by saying he didn't "know the difference" between an official meeting photographed by the press and a "secret" meeting that Sessions "lied about under oath."
It is not improper for elected officials to meet with foreign diplomats.
Trump's White House has been battered by questions about his links to Russia, quashing any sort of political momentum he had earned from his highly praised address to Congress earlier this week.
In this Sept. 26, 2003, file photo, Russian President Vladimir Putin, center, and Sen. Charles Schumer D-N.Y., second from right, are escorted through New York's first Lukoil gas station by Lukoil President Vagit Alekperov, left, in New York City. Lukoil is the giant Russian oil company. Putin later traveled to meet with President George W. Bush at the Camp David presidential retreat. (Scout Tufankjian / AP)
Sessions on Thursday said he would recuse himself from Russia probes after it was revealed that he had conversed with Russia's ambassador twice during last year's campaign, a contradiction of his testimony during his Senate confirmation hearings. But that move has not satisfied many Democrats, who have called for Sessions' resignation. They also demand an independent investigation into the Trump campaign's ties to Russia.
Several other Trump allies have also faced questions about their ties to Russia, including former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who was ousted last month for misleading White House officials about his conversations with Kislyak before Trump took office.
Donna Cassata contributed reporting from Washington.
"Why this Democrat is voting for Rauner" was the headline of my commentary that the Tribune published on March 19, 2014. Borrowing a quote from President John F. Kennedy that said "sometimes party loyalty asks too much," I explained that as a Democrat I supported Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner because Illinois was in grave financial peril and that we needed to change our financial direction.
After Rauner was elected, the Tribune published another piece I wrote where I urged Gov.-elect Rauner to fire his campaign staff, stop campaigning and start governing with advisers "who are problem solvers, who are not partisans, and who know how to compromise."
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Sadly, our state's financial situation has continued to deteriorate. Problems have not been solved, bitter and excessive partisanship is accepted political strategy in Springfield, and "compromise" is a dirty word. I do not believe it's all Gov. Rauner's fault. It is the fault of both the Democratic and Republican parties. At least Democratic Senate President John Cullerton and Senate Republican leader Christine Radogno are trying to find compromise while House Speaker Michael Madigan insists it is his way or the highway. And while I continue to like and respect Gov. Rauner and his wife, Diana, I believe we need a change if we are to reach compromise and progress.
That is why I will enthusiastically vote for and support Chris Kennedy for governor of Illinois in 2018. As a friend of his mother and father for more than 60 years, I've known Chris since his birth. His dad, the late Robert Kennedy, and I were on the 1956 campaign staff of Illinois Gov. Adlai E. Stevenson when he ran for president. Because Bob Kennedy and I were about the same age, we were often roommates on campaign trips. And because we both had children of similar ages, we often talked about our families and our values. As the years passed, Chris grew up, married Sheila Berner, and moved to Chicago to manage the Merchandise Mart.
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As I saw Chris and Sheila raise their children, participate actively in good causes in our community, and later create Top Box Foods to help poor families have affordable nutritious food, I urged him to follow Kennedy family traditions and run for political office. Chris declined, waiting for his children to grow up, but he did take on important public service. Taught by his parents that a person should measure worth by how he or she has served the community, Chris worked to build and strengthen organizations that provide legal services to the elderly and disabled, provide early education, inclusion, and enrichment programs to children with special needs and their families, and offer shelter to our homeless and food to our hungry.
From 2009 through 2014, when the University of Illinois needed an independent and committed leader with integrity, courage and vision to reform and navigate the university beyond a public admissions scandal, Chris Kennedy served as chairman of the University of Illinois board of trustees to take on the challenge. He did it with success and distinction, and earned the respect of Democrats and Republicans.
Now, Illinois needs a governor who will restore bipartisanship and Illinois leadership for our nation. Adlai E. Stevenson, a great governor, led Illinois to become one of the most admired states in our country. Illinois has great men and women, great businesses, great labor, great universities, great artistic and cultural institutions, and a great future. We can renew Stevenson's vision for Illinois: "Here on the prairies of Illinois and the Midwest, we can see a long way in all directions. Here there are no barriers, no defenses, to ideas and aspirations."
Chris Kennedy's campaign will offer new ideas and aspirations to restore Illinois to its glory days.
Newton N. Minow is a Chicago lawyer and senior counsel at Sidley Austin LLP.
While Kellyanne Conway has many notable achievements to her credit, she may go down in history for inventing the term "alternative facts" a euphemism for some of the Trump administration's glaringly false assertions. Although many commentators have discounted the lawyer who is a counselor to the president as a political flack making lame excuses, a group of 15 legal ethics professors think her behavior should not be so easily dismissed. Citing several of Conway's own untrue statements, they have filed a disciplinary complaint against her with the District of Columbia's Office of Disciplinary Counsel, alleging she has violated the rule prohibiting "dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation."
As a liberal Democrat, I have no sympathy for Conway's habitual disregard for truth. As a professor of legal ethics, however, I think this complaint is dangerously misguided and has the potential to set a terrible precedent.
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First, the complaint keys in on two specific statements, neither of which had any connection to Conway's law license. Those statements her invocation of the nonexistent "Bowling Green massacre" and the false claim that President Barack Obama had once ordered a refugee ban similar to President Donald Trump's were both made in a clearly political context, one in which overstatements are commonplace. Conway was defending her boss to the press, not testifying before Congress or implementing an executive branch directive. It might be different if she had been acting in an official capacity, which could be construed broadly as related to the practice of law, but she is a political adviser to Trump with no governmental responsibility.
Political debate is protected by the First Amendment, even when it strays into questionable territory, and it should not be the job of the bar authorities to police the exaggerations and misstatements of politicians just because they happen to be lawyers. (The complaint also takes Conway to task for defending White House press spokesperson Sean Spicer's use of "alternative facts" as Conway put it regarding the size of the inauguration crowd, and for hawking Ivanka Trump's clothing and accessories line on television. Those statements are maddening and irresponsible, but they are not fraudulent.)
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In any case, both statements were somewhat tethered to real facts. Two men were arrested in Bowling Green, Ky., for providing "material support to terrorists" in Iraq, although there had been no massacre, and Obama had tightened the admission of refugees in 2011, although not on anything like the scale of Trump's complete travel ban. Thus, the District of Columbia disciplinary counsel will almost certainly dismiss the professors' complaint on the grounds that the statements did not amount to punishable fraud. If that happens, you can bet Conway will boast of complete vindication, thus rendering the complaint both a futile exercise and a strategic blunder.
But the worst outcome would occur if the professors' complaint were actually to succeed. Imposing discipline on Conway even the mildest slap on the wrist would inevitably lead to a slew of new complaints against attorneys involved in public debate. Lawyer-candidates in the 2016 election cycle included Hillary Clinton, Tim Kaine, Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, Chris Christie, Rick Santorum, Lindsey Graham, and Martin O'Malley, with many others in U.S. Senate and House races (not to mention thousands of campaign aides). Each of these candidates presumably could have been subject to a bar complaint by a disgruntled adversary. If the Conway complaint works, every statement by a candidate or spokesperson is potential fodder for a politically motivated disciplinary complaint.
The professors, no doubt, have faith in the professionalism of the District of Columbia Office of Disciplinary Counsel, but the bar authorities in other states may not always be reliably even-handed or apolitical. It is hardly inconceivable that lawyer discipline might somewhere be used as a weapon against disfavored or minority candidates, or as a means to squelch protest movements and insurgent campaigns. In the 1940s and 1950s, suspected communists and alleged "fellow travelers" found their law licenses in jeopardy in many states. In the 1960s and 1970s, civil rights lawyers were hauled before the bar authorities in the South. The complaint against Conway is an unfortunate step back in the direction of using lawyer discipline against political enemies.
After all, no political party has a monopoly on hyperbole, and nobody in public life will ever be immune from an accusation of deceit. A statement by President Barack Obama "If you like your health care plan, you can keep it" was branded the "Lie of the Year" by the nonpartisan website PolitiFact, and he's a lawyer. Hillary Clinton was subjected to hours of congressional grilling over her initial, and incorrect, explanation of the terrorist attack on the Benghazi diplomatic outpost. Neither of them had to face bar discipline, but that might not be the case in the near future.
The professors recognize that bar complaints about public speech can "lead to mischief and worse" but argue that Conway, as counselor to the president, has a "higher obligation" than other lawyers to avoid dishonest statements.
I think this gets it exactly backward. Speech is most strongly protected when it is part of a robust political debate. If one of the president's chief advisers cannot freely speak her mind, even when it is full of nonsense, then who can? The late Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis once said that the remedy for bad speech is more speech. Likewise, the best remedy for alternative facts should be real facts. That ought to be comeuppance enough for Kellyanne Conway.
Steven Lubet is a professor and director of the Bartlit Center for Trial Advocacy at Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. This commentary originally appeared on Slate.com.
I have some disturbing news to share: Republicans might not be as deeply committed to proper email management as you've been led to believe.
During the campaign, the entire Republican Party argued that despite Hillary Clinton's copious qualifications for the presidency, it would be unconscionably dangerous to let her anywhere near the Oval Office because she had used a private email account while Secretary of State. Crowds at Republican events would chant "Lock her up!" whenever Clinton's name was mentioned. In one debate, Donald Trump said to Clinton that if he were president, "You'd be in jail." With FBI director James Comey's help, Trump and Republicans made Clinton's use of private email the single most important issue of the 2016 presidential campaign.
Which is why this story from Tony Cook of the Indianapolis Star is so interesting:
"Vice President Mike Pence routinely used a private email account to conduct public business as governor of Indiana, at times discussing sensitive matters and homeland security issues.
"Emails released to IndyStar in response to a public records request show Pence communicated via his personal AOL account with top advisers on topics ranging from security gates at the governor's residence to the state's response to terror attacks across the globe. In one email, Pence's top state homeland security adviser relayed an update from the FBI regarding the arrests of several men on federal terror-related charges.
"Cyber-security experts say the emails raise concerns about whether such sensitive information was adequately protected from hackers, given that personal accounts like Pence's are typically less secure than government email accounts. In fact, Pence's personal account was hacked last summer."
Well fancy that. When Mike Pence was debating Tim Kaine and said, "it's important in this moment to remember that Hillary Clinton had a private server in her home that had classified information on it," adding that "her private server was subject to being hacked" and "we could put cybersecurity first if we just make sure the next secretary of state doesn't have a private server," did he consider adding that he knew what he was talking about since he used an AOL account to talk about sensitive security matters and had himself been hacked?
The parallels don't stop there. According to the article, "Pence's office said his campaign hired outside counsel as he was departing as governor to review his AOL emails and transfer any involving public business to the state." Which was exactly what Hillary Clinton did and what Pence and Trump so vehemently criticized her for. When Trump invited the Russian government to hack Clinton's email to recover what had been deleted, it was those personal emails he was talking about.
And Pence is not the only one: Scott Pruitt, President Donald Trump's Environmental Protection Agency administrator, not only used a private email account to conduct official business as attorney general of Oklahoma, he lied about it during his confirmation hearings.
Perhaps now that this has come out, Republicans will stop pretending that the email "issue" was anything more than a club to bludgeon Hillary Clinton with, and the deep concern they expressed for cybersecurity was utterly insincere.
But this actually matters beyond the question of catching Republicans in the act of hypocrisy.
That's because there are strong reasons to believe that the Trump administration is leaving sensitive information vulnerable, and may not be complying with the Presidential Records Act, which mandates that White House staff retain their communications including their emails.
In late January, we learned that top White House officials, including Steve Bannon, Kellyanne Conway, Jared Kushner, and Sean Spicer, were using email addresses from the Republican National Committee with a private server! Once the story broke their addresses were deleted, but presumably had it remained secret, they would have continued to use them.
That's not the only cybersecurity issue we still have to worry about. At the end of January, the New York Times reported that Trump was still using his old, unsecured Android phone, which is unbelievably reckless for the president of the United States. As Wired magazine put it , "All it takes is clicking on one malicious link or opening one untoward attachment either of which can appear as though it were sent from a trusted source to compromise the device. From there, the phone could be infected with malware that spies on the network the device is connected to, logs keystrokes, takes over the camera and microphone for surreptitious recording, and more."
According to some reports , the phone is a Samsung Galaxy S3, which is five years old and is no longer supported with security patches.
Now maybe steps have been taken to secure Trump's phone, though the White House hasn't said anything to that effect. And maybe his aides are in full compliance with the Presidential Records Act, though we do know that some staffers were using a messaging app called Confide, which deletes messages after they've been read (Sean Spicer was reportedly angry about the use of this app, since it could be used to leak to reporters without leaving any trace). Maybe this White House is taking both its legal obligations and the security of its communications with the utmost seriousness, and there won't be any problems from this point on.
But have they given us any reason to believe that?
He has spoken to senators.
He has spoken to generals, both regular and soon-to-be-attorney.
But as soon as he speaks his words vanish, as if they had never been.
No one can definitively state that they were in the room with him at any time. (This must create certain difficulties in his job as Russia's ambassador to the United States.)
His name is Sergey Kislyak, and he is the Most Forgettable Man in the World.
Pictures of him show a corpulent replica of Nikita Khrushchev. But these pictures apparently correspond to a man that no one has ever met. No one he has ever met or talked to seems to remember him. Not Michael Flynn. Not Attorney General Jeff Sessions. No one. Dementors speak of him with reverence, as the mere allusion to his presence removes not only happy memories but all memories of any kind.
He has made many phone calls. But it is only with great difficulty that intelligence agencies were able to make any record of these calls. His voice, like a tree falling alone in a Siberian forest, never makes a sound.
The second he meets with anyone, this meeting vanishes from their memories and their testimony. After meeting with him, senators will shake their watches and say, "But Sofia, I was supposed to meet the Russian ambassador two hours ago!" and Sofia will say, "He just came out of your office, sir."
He is a paradox of space and time.
He once slept on a memory-foam mattress and left no impression whatsoever.
Pigeons often fly directly into him, mistaking him for empty space.
As Amir Nasr noted on Twitter, he is the reason people in D.C. say "good to see you" rather than "good to meet you": No one can ever be entirely sure that they have not already met him.
Who can say what is discussed in his meetings? Those who were in them cannot recall. When people speak to him, they become different people. They receive new hats. They stop being campaign advisers and become Senate committee members only. They are transformed -- and then the memory vanishes. Other people will carelessly allege that Kislyak's conversation with Sessions was a series of simple surface pleasantries about the election, not an in-depth discussion, and definitely unofficial, but those in the room will not even say that.
Perhaps no words were even spoken.
Afterward, all his interlocutors have are images and feelings: warmth, security, ethics, definitely nothing that belongs in testimony.
Look, Kislyak is unmemorable, and nothing he has ever said to anyone involved in the Trump campaign can possibly have been of any interest. I do not know what this allegation is about and, also, it is false.
Are we sure that he exists? Is he even corporeal? Who can be sure? He melts away the second he is measured, like a Trump crowd on Inauguration Day.
It must be difficult to be so mild and self-effacing in a position of such international importance. How does he conduct diplomacy when no one can remember ever seeing or hearing him? Even Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., who denounced Sessions for communing with him, discovered to her horror that SHE, TOO, had shared a group meeting with him.
Possibly we have all met with Kislyak and our minds are just shielding us from this knowledge.
Still, it is a good thing that some people have managed to keep records. Otherwise we might never know that he had talked to anyone at all.
Washington Post
It was a frigid December night, and I had just settled into the plump cushions of the living room couch with a book when I heard a sharp rapping on the front door. The sound startled me, mainly because it was 8:45 p.m., pitch black outside, and I was alone. My husband had left two days ago for a conference.
I sat thinking for a split second about who could possibly be at my door at that hour. I live on a really quiet street on the North Shore, about a block off the main road. Hours can go by without a car or pedestrian passing in front of my home, a small, modest house more than 100 years old.
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Another moment passed. More sharp rapping. And then a face pressed against the square window in my front door, and I made eye contact with the eyes in that face. A woman's face. She was saying something, but I couldn't make it out.
I wish I could say that my first instinct was to leap off the couch to help this mystery woman. But I hesitated. All the bad stories about women who open their doors to strangers stories told in newspapers and magazines, on TV news, even stories dimly remembered from childhood slumber parties. Be afraid, be very afraid.
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I don't tread fearfully in my daily life, but still. Strange people at the door, in the dark, when you are alone that makes you think a bit.
What went through my mind was this: What if I open the door and she isn't alone but has an accomplice hiding behind that big shrub, and then they both come in and murder me? As a writer, I am nothing if not one to see entire plots unfold before anything even happens.
I opened the door. If I was murdered, I had had a good life. And in my version of a life well-lived, I couldn't not open the front door.
She tumbled into my living room. "Gracias, gracias ... My phone is dead." Speaking mostly Spanish, but interspersed with bits of English, the woman indicated that she was lost, her phone was dead and she needed to call her sister who was supposed to have picked her up at the train station but hadn't. So she had decided to try and walk to her sister's but had gotten completely lost in the dark.
I flicked on the gas fireplace and offered to make her some tea while we waited for her phone to charge enough so that she could show me her sister's address. I figured that if she had a murderous partner in the bushes, he was probably frozen by now.
Oddly enough, a similar situation had occurred the previous summer. I had just taken a late-evening shower, and when I came out of the bathroom in my robe, a young woman was sitting on the living room couch crying in front of my pajama-clad husband. A stranger to the area, she had taken a wrong turn, then another and was now completely lost. Even the GPS on her phone wasn't any help to her now. She was too agitated to think properly.
"She needs to get back to the highway," my husband said. "Do you think you can get back there?" he asked the young woman.
She shook her head, crying harder, and I got her a box of tissues.
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"Well, then, we'll get our car and you can follow us," said my husband. "Once you get on the highway north, you can't miss the turnoff you need."
So, at 10:30 p.m., in our pajamas, we drove the 10 minutes to the highway entrance she needed, waited until she passed by us and then headed back home.
In the December episode, my first thought upon seeing this young woman also was not so charitable. Maybe I have seen too many true-crime murder stories where the woman is sent as a decoy to lure the unsuspecting older couple to their doom. But, this new stranger and I chatted freely, even with our language difference. She was from Brazil, was in some kind of medical field and was visiting the University of Chicago. Her sister apparently lived close to me, and their signals had gotten crossed; thus her predicament.
The cellphone lit up, newly charged, and I saw that the address she needed was only about a half-mile away. I offered to drive her there, but she called her sister, speaking in rapid-fire Spanish, and in less than 10 minutes the sister was there in her Volvo station wagon.
The two women thanked me and ran off into the cold, dark night. I haven't seen or heard from them since.
Sometimes, at night, when I am alone, I think about these lost women. I also think about how I don't think I would open my front door to a man. I think of my house and wonder why two strangers felt safe enough to approach it. Maybe it's because I always leave the front porch light on until I go to bed. Maybe it's because of the front porch itself, which seems to say, "Come. Sit a spell. You are welcome."
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Kathy Stevenson is a freelance writer who lives in Lake Forest.
The nation's capital has been aflame with one of those scandals that may be forgotten by next year or remembered for decades to come. It concerns how Russia tried to affect the presidential election and whether it was working secretly with Donald Trump's campaign. Also, what was discussed in a pre-inauguration phone call between a Russian diplomat and Michael Flynn, and in meetings between that same diplomat and Jeff Sessions, former senator and now Trump's attorney general.
Flynn was forced out as Trump's national security adviser for lying about his conversation with Russian Ambassador. Sessions has been taking heat for two meetings he had with Kislyak during the campaign when he was on the Senate Armed Services Committee. During his Senate confirmation hearing to become attorney general, Sessions was asked whether he knew of any communications between the Trump campaign and the Russian government during the course of the campaign.
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"I have been called a (Trump) surrogate a time or two in that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians," Sessions replied.
At a news conference Thursday, Sessions tried to douse the fire, acknowledging two meetings with Kislyak, but saying the campaign was never discussed. One meeting, around the time of the GOP convention, was brief and involved a group of envoys, including Kislyak. The second meeting, on Sept. 8, was sought by the Russian ambassador, Sessions said. Two of Sessions' senior staffers joined him. Kislyak and Sessions talked about terrorism and about Ukraine, but politics never came up, Sessions told reporters.
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Given that he was a Trump surrogate and a top foreign adviser to candidate Trump, Sessions took a step many Democrats and Republicans had urged: He recused himself from any probes related to the presidential campaign, including investigations into any Russian interference in the electoral process and allegations of Russian ties to Team Trump: "I feel I should not be involved in investigating a campaign I had a role in." That was the right move, though we believe he still should, under oath, give the Judiciary Committee a full account of his encounters with Kislyak, and his staffers at the second meeting should do the same. Vagueness got him into this mess, transparency can get him out of it.
But the Russia cloud over the Trump team isn't going away, and deserves a full investigation. The immediate question is who should conduct it.
"I did not have international relations with that mammal..." (Chicago Tribune)
Even before news of the Sessions-Kislyak meetings rocked Washington, some Democrats were calling for appointment of an independent counsel to parse allegations about Russia and the campaign. The Sessions news only intensified those calls. At least one Republican has proposed an independent counsel, Rep. Darrell Issa, of California, who last week said, "That is historically the right way to deal with something like this."
Actually, often as not, it's historically the wrong way to deal with something like this. This page has long been dubious of special prosecutors. They often burn through millions of dollars with underwhelming results most infamously Kenneth Starr, who headed an investigation of President Bill Clinton and first lady Hillary Clinton that lasted six years and ended with neither charged.
The Senate and House intelligence committees are looking into the allegations about Russia, and they deserve a chance to prove their mettle. "We're already starting to review the raw intelligence," Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, the top Democrat on the panel, said recently. "We are well down this path." With their specialized experience and top-secret clearances, the committee members are well-equipped to dig out the truth and assess its significance. Both have Republican majorities and chairmen, but that's no bar to an aggressive investigation.
Democratic members, you can be sure, will insist on pursuing every plausible lead and will scream bloody murder if their GOP colleagues stand in the way. Warner had expressed faith in the commitment of committee chairman Richard Burr, R-N.C. After learning that the White House had persuaded Burr to call reporters to dispute allegations of contact between the Kremlin and Trump aides, though, Warner said he would "not accept any process that is undermined by political interference." He added that if the committee "cannot properly conduct an independent investigation, I will support empowering whoever can do it right."
We might second that motion. But the key word is "if." The public can afford to wait to see how the congressional committees handle this challenge. In the meantime, the news media may uncover additional facts that will clarify what happened and what it means.
If a cover-up appears to be afoot in the Justice Department or Congress, Trump's critics, inside and outside government, will go public with a vengeance. An independent counsel is an option to deploy only when those responsible for discovering the truth show that they're unwilling to do so. It's a club that, for now, is better left in the closet.
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Gizzell Ford was a writer with a story to tell: her own.
She was an 8-year-old nicknamed "Gizzy," a spelling bee winner and A student who kept a rainbow-striped journal. "I am going to be a beautiful smart and good young lady," she wrote in 2013. "People say I'm smart and courageous and beautiful."
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A few weeks later, Gizzell was found dead in her grandmother's trash-strewn, vermin-infested apartment in Austin. She had been beaten and strangled. Her hands and ankles showed signs of having been bound; an electrical wire was found wrapped around the bottom of a bedpost. There was a gaping wound in the back of her head infested with maggots.
Investigators determined that Gizzy had been tortured by Helen Ford, her grandmother. Her father, Andre Ford, who was bedridden, also lived in the apartment. Video he shot on Helen Ford's cellphone captured some of the abuse: Gizzell was being punished, forced to do squats.
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"She's getting defiant," her father says in the video. "Stand up! Do your squats!"
"You see how she's acting?" the grandmother says. "She lies about every single thing."
A second video includes the grandmother saying Gizzy "made herself throw up" to avoid squats. There is a sock or rag stuffed in the little girl's mouth.
Gizzell's father died in Cook County Jail of an apparent heart attack in August 2014 while awaiting trial for his role in her death. The grandmother was convicted of murder Thursday. Gizzell had been beaten from head to toe, evidence showed. Prosecutors said the girl also was dying of kidney failure, having been deprived of food and water.
Gizzy chronicled the final days of her life in her journal. There are references to her love of school and jumping rope. But according to excerpts revealed at trial, the specter of abuse also appears: "I know if I be good and do everything I'm told I won't have to do punishments," she wrote.
By the end of Gizzy's life, according to the Tribune's Steve Schmadeke, who covered the trial, her once neat handwriting had become a jagged scrawl.
The diary "corroborates what we suspect," Martin Dolan, an attorney representing family members in a wrongful death lawsuit, told us. "There's a sense of fear in that diary that has to be analyzed, and it should have been. People should have recognized what was going on."
A Tribune report in 2013 plus trial testimony highlight the ways the legal system let down Gizzell. She was the subject of a custody dispute that involved eight Cook County judges. A Department of Children and Family Services investigator visited Gizzell's home about a month before her death, the Tribune reported, but did not take action. A child-abuse doctor examined the girl but never called the DCFS hotline to report a suspicious injury he observed. No investigators followed up.
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DCFS has been troubled not just for years but generations. It operates under a decades-old federal consent decree due to its continued lapses protecting children. The current director, George Sheldon, who joined in 2015, is the ninth leader of DCFS since 2011. He has said his efforts to overhaul the department are focused on intervening sooner in the lives of families. Those changes ones that will identify and protect vulnerable children before catastrophe strikes can't come soon enough.
Months after Gizzell died, the Tribune's Christy Gutowski examined the little girl's life and the safety net that failed to save her. "Gizzell was one of those who I knew would make a difference in the world maybe as a teacher or writer," said Kathryn Wanicek, who taught the girl in first and part of second grade.
Gizzy had written this note:
Dear. Ms. Wanicek
I love you. I also love reading. Yeah!
Love,
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Gizzy Ford
Men help lift a fallen tombstone at the Jewish Mount Carmel Cemetery, February 26, 2017, in Philadelphia, Pa. Police say more than 100 tombstones were vandalized a week after a Jewish cemetery in St. Louis was desecrated. (Dominick Reuter / AFP/Getty Images)
There is hate and intolerance in America, as there is in every society. Will humans ever erase the urge to mistreat members of some groups because of their identity? Alas, humanity's imperfect nature suggests bigotry and discrimination will trail us probably forever.
The more heartening perspective comes from observing what happens when ugliness appears. Do Americans know how to react? Yes, and it can be beautiful to see.
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The background: There has been an alarming spate of anti-Semitic acts this year. The JCC Association of North America has reported waves of telephoned bomb threats to Jewish community centers and schools, including 31 incidents on Feb. 27. Last month, a Chicago synagogue was vandalized, as were Jewish cemeteries in suburban St. Louis and Philadelphia. On Thursday, a Jewish cemetery in Rochester, N.Y., was desecrated.
Jews are worried. They are a minority fully integrated into American life, yet they feel vulnerable because the scourge of anti-Semitism remains. Fear of terror attacks in Europe, but here, too is ever-present. For Jews, when something bad happens it's never an isolated incident but part of a long history of being targeted. That's why the reaction by other Americans to anti-Semitism is important: Would the Jewish sense of isolation be affirmed, or might it be counteracted?
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We hope the Jewish community is feeling supported. In reaction to the desecration in Missouri, two Muslim activists sought to raise $20,000 in donations among Muslims through a crowdfunding website and reached their goal in three hours. With Philadelphia also in mind, their effort to help repair damaged headstones passed $150,000 and is still going. "We extend our deepest condolences to all those who have been affected and to the Jewish community at large," the crowdfunding site said.
Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 155 (Scott Stantis/For the Chicago Tribune)
When cleanup efforts were organized in Philadelphia, dozens of volunteers turned up, among them a Catholic landscaper. A local Fraternal Order of Police lodge gave money. At the St. Louis-area cemetery cleanup, Gov. Eric Greitens, who is Jewish, was joined by Vice President Mike Pence. On social media, where you never know if you'll see more good or nastiness, a Chicago-area Marine veteran who is Muslim volunteered to stand guard at any synagogue or Jewish cemetery. Tayyib Rashid's tweet went viral; other Muslims joined his offer.
Many Jews were touched. As objects of hatred, they share space with Muslims and can respond similarly:
In Florida, after an arson caused property damage at the Islamic Society of New Tampa, it was the Jewish community that stepped up. After Adeel Karim launched a fund to pay for repairs at the mosque, he was puzzled by some donations, which were in multiples of 18. Then he realized these Jewish contributors were giving gifts according to their custom because in Jewish numerology the word for 18 signifies "life." Karim wrote on Facebook: "The Jewish faith has shown up in force to support our New Tampa Islamic community. I'm floored."
There will never be a satisfying explanation for why some people victimize others over their identity. We are all "others" in a diverse nation, yet certain groups face harassment. It's reprehensible. Law enforcement response is crucial, as are denunciations by political leaders.
But what also counts are the symbolic gestures by individuals little acts of the heart that confirm our better nature. After someone fired a projectile through the window of a synagogue in Evansville, Ind., the local Islamic society wrote on Feb 28: "We stand with our Jewish brothers and sisters against religious intolerance. We pray for your safety and ask God to protect us all from such injustices."
The best measure of American values is not when some among us behave poorly. It's when the rest of us stand together.
Join the discussion on Twitter @Trib_Ed_Board and on Facebook.
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During Then-Senator and Trump campaign surrogate Jeff Sessions' confirmation hearing, Sen. Al Franken asks what he would do if he learned of any evidence that anyone affiliated with the Trump campaign communicated with the Russian government in the course of the 2016 campaign. Jan. 10, 2017. (C-SPAN) (Chicago Tribune)
I want you to stand in front of a mirror.
Now I want you to imagine Barack Obama is 40 days into his presidency, and that during his campaign he repeatedly and inexplicably praised Russian President Vladimir Putin.
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Next imagine that late in the campaign and in the weeks that followed the election that brought Obama into office, American intelligence agencies determined conclusively that Russia had hacked the Republican National Committee and released thousands of stolen emails that were damaging to Obama's opponent.
And that Obama's campaign vigorously denied any contact with Russian officials before or after the election.
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Then, imagine that not long after the inauguration, Obama's national security adviser was found to have lied about having contact with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. He in fact spoke with the ambassador in December, the day the outgoing president issued sanctions against Russia for interfering with the election.
The adviser was fired.
Questions persisted. More evidence began to surface that people connected to Obama had been in contact with the Russians during the campaign.
Imagine that President Obama continued to deny there was any issue and brushed off reports as "fake news," criticizing the intelligence community for leaking information to the press.
As calls for an investigation into the Obama campaign's connections to Russia grew louder, news broke that Obama's new attorney general had been less than honest during his confirmation hearing when asked if he had contact with the Russians. He said he hadn't, but it turns out he had met twice with the Russian ambassador, one of those times during the Democratic National Convention.
Imagine the attorney general said his meetings were part of his work as a senator, but then news came out that the trip to the convention was paid for through the then-senator's campaign fund.
Under pressure, Obama's attorney general finally recused himself from investigations into issues surrounding the campaign and Russia.
Now imagine at this point, which again is in Obama's first 40 days as president, you learn that the fired national security adviser actually met with the Russian ambassador at Obama's house in Chicago, along with Obama's son-in-law. (You also have to imagine that Malia Obama is married and that a staffer in Obama's White House recently tried to push Malia's clothing line in a nationally televised interview. I know this is hard, just keep that imagination going.)
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Vladimir Putin talks to President Obama at the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Hangzhou, China on Sept. 5. (Alexei Druzhinin / European Pressphoto Agency)
Next you learn that an Obama campaign official who made a change to the Democratic Party platform during its national convention, a change Russia would like the only change that candidate Obama's campaign requested also met with the Russian ambassador during the Democratic National Convention.
Imagine all of these things. And remember that President Obama and members of his campaign all said specifically and repeatedly that there had been no contact with Russia.
Imagine.
Now look into that mirror in front of you.
If this were true, would you think there should be an independent investigation into contacts between the Obama campaign and Russia? Are you angry?
If you answered yes to either of those questions and you don't feel the same way right now about the connections between Donald Trump's campaign and Russia, you need to ask yourself: What is the difference between these two men?
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Now look in the mirror again, long and hard. Because you have one last question to ask yourself.
And I think you know what it is.
rhuppke@chicagotribune.com
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One reasonably well-read speech does not a president make. President Donald Trump is being applauded for his even-toned, scripted, talking-point speech to a joint session of Congress. However, for me, what he said in a speech written by others for him to read and what he said, unscripted, earlier is a tale of two completely different leaders.
In his speech, Trump spoke about the need for clean air and water. Yet earlier that day, he signed orders urging a review and reconsideration of clean water regulations.
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In his speech, he spoke about the need to end racism and anti-Semitism. Yet, earlier in the day, he appeared to allude to recent attacks on synagogues and Jewish cemeteries as possibly prompted by Jews themselves who are trying to discredit his administration.
In his speech, he (rightly) honored the sacrifice of U.S. Navy SEAL William "Ryan" Owens during the raid in Yemen and described the raid as highly successful. Yet earlier, even though he is "commander in chief," he blamed both the Obama administration and his generals for any failures that have come to light, including Owens' death. Not only that, but there is an uncomfortable contrast in the way the Owens family has been treated and the way Capt. Humayun Khan's family was treated just last summer.
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What he reads is one thing. What he says and does speaks volumes more. We should all be listening carefully before applauding this administration.
Susan Newstat, Waukegan
As President Donald Trump delivered his address to Congress on Tuesday, I listened in vain for a familiar presidential theme: the "forgotten man and woman." I didn't hear it. I hope he didn't forget to remember the "forgotten."
Franklin Roosevelt is most famous for invoking "The Forgotten Man" in a 1932 campaign radio address with that title. To FDR, the forgotten man was "at the bottom of the economic pyramid."
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That was quite the opposite aim of social Darwinist William Graham Sumner, who in 1883 described the "forgotten man" as the hard worker who yearned to be freed from the nagging needs of the undeserving poor.
Bill Clinton put his own twist on the phrase in 1991 when he announced his presidential candidacy as "a campaign for the future, for the forgotten hard-working middle class families of America."
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Small wonder that President Trump revived the theme in his victory speech and inauguration address. "The forgotten men and women of our country will be forgotten no longer," Trump said in November. "Everyone is listening to you now."
Yes, everyone was. I was not happy about Trump's election. But after years of writing about how poverty, job loss and income inequality had entrapped more white people than people of color, I could not help but feel pleased to see poor and working-class whites turn out at a higher rate than any other group to vote for change.
That's how democracy is supposed to work. I was only surprised that the working-class hero of this decade turned out to be Donald Trump.
Will he remember them now? He didn't mention "forgotten men and women" in his speech to Congress. But I don't think his voter base minded much.
"It's still early of course, but every Trump voter I know loved the speech," author J.D. Vance told me in an email.
Vance is the author of the best-selling "Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis," his story of growing up amid the socioeconomic troubles of rural Kentucky and the economically troubled steel town of Middletown, Ohio where I, too, grew up about three decades earlier.
After reviewers tagged it as a must-read for those who want to understand Trump's voter base, the book soared up the New York Times bestseller list last summer, where it has remained ever since.
I'm happy for him. Although I grew up "too po' to afford the 'o' and the 'r,' " as my father used to say, Vance had it worse. I grew up in Middletown's era of steel mills, paper mills and prosperity. Vance came along during the city's Rust Belt phase at the end of the century, when hope was running out and new plagues like heroin and other opiates were moving in.
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"Many of Trump's voters have always felt a bit conflicted about him," Vance wrote. "On the one hand, he's able to identify and criticize many of the problems that people see in their own communities. But it often comes packaged with a personality or rhetoric that even his most ardent supporters sometimes roll their eyes at."
This speech was different, says Vance, "the first time that Trump either as a candidate or a president was able to harness the good, stay on message, and avoid the personality problems that bother many."
But can he fulfill his promises to his base? Or will he be just another ambitious salesman-politician who promises the world but fails to deliver?
His speech to Congress showed a welcome change in style, more soft-spoken and presidential instead of a rambling, looking-for-laughs monologue. But its substance offered the same grand hyperinflated promises he talked about on the campaign trail without any details as to how he's going to get the job done.
On his big promise to repeal and replace Obamacare with "something terrific," he mentioned "tax credits" and "expanded health savings accounts," which are fine for those who can afford them. But with almost half of the nation's workers making too little income to pay federal income tax, the tax credits and HSAs fall short of universal coverage that former President Barack Obama and other Democrats have sought.
Vance, as it turns out, is not waiting for politicians to catch up with our hometown's troubles. He's planning to move back to Middletown from San Francisco, he says, to start up a nonprofit to beat back the opiate overdose epidemic that, at present, has hit Ohio worse than any other state.
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Trump barely mentioned drugs in his speech to Congress. But the nation can't afford to forget it.
Clarence Page, a member of the Tribune Editorial Board, blogs at www.chicagotribune.com/pagespage.
cpage@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @cptime
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Horse trainer Kim Angerman speaks about the Galloping Out program at Tukaway Farm in Elgin on Feb. 18, 2017. The program helps thoroughbred racehorses find new homes after retiring from the racetrack. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune) (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune)
Horse trainer Jan Ely remembers the day she received a frantic phone call from an animal rescue volunteer who had identified one of the horses in a "kill pen" in Shipshewana, Ind., as Pushin Up Daisy a thoroughbred mare who had been racing at Arlington Park just a few months earlier.
"She had left Arlington around the end of July of 2015 and just four months later, she had her foot on the banana," said Ely, the coordinator of Galloping Out.
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The nonprofit organization in Illinois has found homes for more than 180 retired thoroughbred horses who have raced at Arlington Park in Arlington Heights and Hawthorne Race Course near south suburban Cicero.
When Ely answered the call from Indiana about Pushin Up Daisy, the executive director of the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association happened to walk by.
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"He gave me his credit card," Ely said. "I thought to myself, 'This horse doesn't know how lucky she is, or maybe she does.' But we purchased Pushin Up Daisy for $425, put her in our program and a few months later, she had a home."
Newly retired race horse "Nachas and Joy" pokes his head out of the stall at Tukaway Farm in Elgin. He and dozens of other horses are part of the Galloping Out adoption program. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)
Officials with the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, which represents horse owners and trainers at Chicago-area tracks, launched Galloping Out six years ago to give the animals the chance to enjoy productive and rewarding lives after they retire from racing, according to Chris Block, president of Galloping Out.
The nonprofit recently was accredited by the national Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, based in Lexington, Ky., following a rigorous review of the organization's practices and facilities, including site visits to the farms where the rescue horses await adoption.
Joining the ranks of 64 accredited rescue organizations in the U.S. and Canada that have assisted more than 6,000 retired thoroughbred horses, Galloping Out also received a $10,000 grant from the alliance with the recognition.
The Galloping Out program, which provides for the care, rehabilitation and retraining of retired thoroughbred racehorses, is funded by contributions from the horsemen's association and donations from supporters, Block said.
Last summer, more than 95 percent of horse owners at Arlington agreed to contribute a $5 start fee each race to help support Galloping Out, amounting to $21,000, which the track matched, bringing the total to $42,000, he said.
Officials at Hawthorne also contributed $25,000 to the organization, he said.
But the care and housing of retired thoroughbreds is expensive, Block said, and requires paying roughly $400 a month per horse to the farms that board the animals, as well as funding the cost of food, veterinary and blacksmith services.
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"We hope the horse is adopted out in under six months, if it's healthy and in sound physical shape, and doesn't have any bad vices," Block said. "But even when we're having a hard time finding an adoptive home for a horse, once they're in Galloping Out, we will continue to care for them, as long as they live, because they have no other avenue."
Horse trainer Kim Angerman checks on horses and feeds them at Tukaway Farm in Elgin on Feb 17, 2017. "Winston" is a former race horse whose name was "Gold Former" and retired into the Galloping Out program. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)
Ely, who coordinates the temporary placement of the Galloping Out horses while they are rehabilitated before adoption, said most of the equines find homes in Illinois, where they live as family horses who spend days trail riding, as well as jumping, competing in dressage, playing polo and serving as companion animals to children with developmental disabilities.
But the main goal behind Galloping Out is trying to limit the number of thoroughbred horses in the Chicago area that are killed at slaughterhouses by finding them permanent homes after retiring either because of age, injury or the simple fact that they are no longer winning races, Ely said.
Each year, roughly 130,000 American horses racing, working, companion horses and even children's ponies are transported long distances across the U.S. borders, heading for Mexico and Canada, where they are killed, according to the Humane Society of the United States' website.
Their meat then is shipped overseas for human consumption, the website stated.
Federal lawmakers, including, U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, a Democratic from Evanston, recently introduced legislation, called the Safeguard American Food Exports Act, designed to prevent the establishment of horse slaughter operations within the U.S. and end the current export of American horses for slaughter abroad.
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A longtime horse supporter, Schakowsky said in an email that horses sent to slaughter are subject to "appalling, brutal treatment."
"This practice is abhorrent and unconscionable. I was proud to reintroduce the Safeguard American Food Exports (SAFE) Act earlier this year," she said. "This bill will ensure that these majestic and intelligent animals are treated with the respect they deserve."
Reflected in the window of room lined with horse ribbons, Emily Charnota, 17, and her horse "Winston" pause after practicing their jumping at Tukaway Farm in Elgin on Feb 17, 2017. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)
Horse rescue advocates say the majority of the horses sent to slaughter are young, healthy animals that could have led productive lives with loving owners if given the chance.
Tony Petrillo, the general manager of Arlington Park, said the track is well aware of the grim future that awaits what he says is a small number of retired thoroughbred horses who end up in the wrong hands.
The track also is a strong supporter of Galloping Out, both financially and philosophically, he said.
The track's house rules, for example, enforce a ban on horse slaughter, according to Petrillo.
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Horse owners and trainers stabled at Arlington are warned in a published notice that their stalls will be permanently revoked if they are found to have "directly or indirectly" sold a horse for slaughter.
"Arlington requires its horsemen to conduct due diligence on those buying horses and encourages them to support rescue and adoption efforts, and to find humane ways of dealing with horses unable to continue racing," the published warning reads.
While Petrillo said the track has safeguards in place to ensure that the horses on site during the racing season are safe and well cared for, he acknowledged that once a horse is "checked-out" and transported to another venue, the animal's owner and trainer ultimately is responsible for the horse's welfare.
"The alternative for some of these horses could be dire, and it's not what people in this industry are about," Petrillo said. "But just like any industry, you're going to have some bad apples."
Horse trainer Kim Angerman ineracts with former race horse "Winston" at Tukaway Farm in Elgin on Feb 17, 2017. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)
As the director of Tuckaway Farm in Elgin, which currently is home to several Galloping Out horses awaiting adoption, Kim Angerman said she enjoys assisting retired thoroughbred horses as they are re-trained for their new lives as competitors in hunter/jumper and dressage events, as well as their new roles as family companion animals.
"These retired thoroughbred horses can have a rough start because some of them have been racing a long time," said Angerman, adding how she adopted a Galloping Out horse for her own family. "The teenagers who ride at the farm really like to work with these horses, knowing they're helping find them new homes, which is very satisfying."
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For many Galloping Out volunteers and supporters, the inspiration behind the work is the organization's many success stories, including that of Pushin Up Daisy, a horse saved from the Indiana kill pen at the last minute and who, today, has her own Facebook page.
"I always wanted to re-home a horse, so I arranged to drive up and see her, and as soon as we rode around, I knew, 'she's it,'" said Esther Sintim, 35, a high school teacher and married mother of two from West Lafayette, Ind.
She said Pushin Up Daisy was a Christmas gift from her husband.
"I had no idea that some racehorses that are not winning anymore or get injured end up in the kill pen," said Sintim, who has been riding since her childhood in northwest England.
Today, she visits her rescue horse at least four times a week at the stable where she boards, and she also is training for jumping and dressage events.
"Every time I look at her, I think, 'Oh my gosh she's mine!'" Sintim said. "Whatever the reason is that we're together, I'm so glad I got her, and I hope she is, too."
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kcullotta@tribpub.com
Twitter @kcullotta
A Warrenville man was charged with felony burglary after a resident of an apartment complex on Aurora's Far East Side saw the man getting into a neighbor's car, Aurora police said.
Derrick D. Terrell, 18, of the 3S300 block of Pattermann Road, Warrenville, was charged about 10:30 a.m. Monday after he was seen inside the vehicle in the apartment complex in the 3800 block of East New York Street, police spokesman Dan Ferrelli said in an email.
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Before and after entering the car from which he allegedly took a Bulls cap the original witness and a maintenance crew said they saw Terrell pulling on door handles, Ferrelli said.
Terrell was seen jogging westbound out of the complex, Ferrelli said.
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Officers stopped him in the 3300 block of Kentshire Circle based on the description given by witnesses and he was taken into custody without incident, Ferrelli said.
Terrell is in the DuPage County Jail where he must post $1,000 bond to be released. He is next to appear on March 14 at the DuPage courthouse in Wheaton.
hleone@tribpub.com
Twitter @hannahmleone
Win or lose on Election Day, Richard Irvin had his Wednesday morning already planned.
The morning after securing a spot on the April ballot in a showdown for Aurora mayor, Irvin kept a commitment to talk with youngsters about growing up in the city's public housing, working clear of drugs and gangs, and becoming an Army veteran, an attorney and a candidate for mayor of Aurora for the third time.
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And he admits he completed the presentation Wednesday on adrenalin from Tuesday night.
"I haven't slept," he said Wednesday.
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The other top vote-getter, Rick Guzman, already had arranged to take the day off from work Wednesday to either sleep in or start making phone calls. He spent the day making and taking calls.
"We're moving ahead at full speed," Guzman said. "It's been a busy, busy day."
Irvin, 47, one of Aurora's aldermen at large, and Guzman, 39, assistant chief of staff in the mayor's office, survived the four-person mayoral primary this week. Irvin finished first with about 32.3 percent of the vote, and Guzman finished second with about 28.8 percent, according to figures from the Aurora and DuPage County election commissions.
They will face each other April 4 to see who will become Aurora's 57th mayor.
State Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia finished third with about 24.9 percent and Ald. Michael Saville, 6th Ward, had 13.9 percent.
Irvin reiterated Wednesday that it was his more than 10-year-old "One Aurora" message that fueled his victory.
"It's about being a leader, a vision I had a decade and a half ago," he said. "We have started to implement that, and we need to build on that. But there were a number of reasons I won we worked hard getting the message out, knocking on doors, working calls, sending out mailers."
Guzman credited a "grass-roots campaign" that included knocking on doors, visiting a lot of living rooms and making phone calls.
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"I relied on a lot of people contributing," he said.
Chapa LaVia said in a statement she was "disappointed in the results of yesterday's election."
"I am also disappointed in the nefarious third party attacks that were funded largely by supporters of my opponents," she said. "I believe that these are examples of a greater problem playing out across the country which is hurting our democratic-republic."
Chapa LaVia was referring to a final week of the campaign during which four "hit" mailings were sent out against her emphasizing her relationship with Illinois Speaker of the House Michael Madigan. Two of the pieces were funded by a Republican-based political action committee in Springfield, and the other two were anonymous organizations that failed to register with the state Board of Elections.
"I am personally proud of the positive and issue-based campaign we ran," Chapa LaVia said in the statement. "It is my hope that the remaining candidates utilize and promote our economic development reform agenda and recognize the need for a higher level of transparency, accountability, and ethics within city government as described in our platform."
Chapa LaVia still is the 83rd District state representative. She was re-elected to that position last fall.
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Saville admitted he was surprised he did not do better than about 14 percent of the vote.
"I felt I ran an honorable and clean campaign that didn't throw mud or attack people personally," he said. "It wasn't the outcome I was expecting, but the voters always have the last say and I respect that."
Saville still has about two years left on his term as 6th Ward alderman.
Maybe most disappointing to some election watchers was the low voter turnout for the primary, about 20 percent of the 93,680 registered voters in Aurora, including the Aurora Election Commission area and the DuPage County section.
There does not appear to be enough outstanding ballots to affect the outcome. Linda Fechner, Aurora Election Commission director, said her office is waiting on 67 ballots, counting vote by mail, grace period and provisional ballots.
She estimated Wednesday the primary cost the Election Commission about $200,000 to run, not counting what it cost DuPage and Kane counties. A court order was one reason for a Democratic township primary, and because five people registered as write-ins who ended never campaigned nor raised any money.
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In that Democratic Party primary, Juan Reyna won the nomination for highway commissioner with 35.2 percent of the vote, beating Mark Semmler, who had 30.1 percent, Jason Owens, who had 21.1 percent, and Kevin Allen Hale, who had 13.4 percent.
In the race to nominate a slate of township trustees, the winners were Dolores Hicks with 19.8 percent of the vote, Juanita T. Wells with 17.6 percent, Brenda Hernandez with 16.3 percent and David Moore with 15.6 percent.
Fechner said she expected more turnout for a primary with four mayoral candidates.
"So 80 percent of the citizens of Aurora let 20 percent make their decisions for them," she said.
slord@tribpub.com
The Greater Aurora Area Coalition for Literacy met recently to discuss ways to address the growing number of immigrants seeking citizenship. Members include, from left, Catherine Pendergalt, Family Focus; Sister Kathleen Ryan, Dominican Literacy Center; Michaela McDaid, Waubonsee Community College; Jan Oncken, community volunteer; Violet Flores, Family Focus; Migdalia Ballona, Community Health Partnership of Illinois; and Julian Vargas, Family Focus. (Denise Crosby / The Beacon-News)
What a difference a few months and a new president can make.
When I showed up at one of the Dominican Literacy Center's citizenship classes before November's election, there were a couple of dozen students in attendance.
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These days, those class sizes have almost tripled, and because of the large number, "we had to split into two classes and find another teacher to help us out," said Sister Kathleen Ryan, executive director of the Dominican Literacy Center.
Family Focus is among the Fox Valley agencies experiencing a similar swell. Previous workshops introducing the citizenship process had between 20 to 30 people, said youth development coordinator Julian Vargas. But at the most recent workshop Saturday, more than 200 Aurora-area residents showed up. Because employees, working 12 hours that day, were able to only sign up 95, the rest "were told to come back on Monday," Vargas said.
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And even though World Relief officials said they are dealing with fewer refugees since President Donald Trump's executive order, about 150 immigrants showed up Saturday for a World Relief Citizenship Clinic, double the number at a similar workshop last fall.
Just as the Dominican Literacy Center has a long waiting list for tutors in English as a second language, Family Focus also had to double its ESL classes, going from two to four a day. And at St. Mary's Catholic Church, noted Ryan, enrollment in the citizenship class for seniors not required to take the test in English because of their age soared from four to 30.
"Past demand was manageable," Ryan said of the situation. "But this is a whole different story."
The issue has become so dire so quickly that how to respond was the focus of the Greater Aurora Area Literacy Coalition's meeting this week at the Aurora Public Library.
Funding cuts that hit literacy programs hard, noted Vargas, have especially impacted citizenship programs. While there is an obvious need for more classroom space Family Focus could possibly repurpose a storage room, for example local experts say what's even more urgent is a vision or structure in place to tackle the issue through a communitywide effort.
For one thing, the coalition is not even sure what other groups, churches or otherwise, are working with immigrants on the path to citizenship. Nor does the coalition know if this surge is temporary or, as Ryan described it, "the new normal."
"In the past six weeks, all of us are trying to respond to new policy changes and new needs within our communities," said World Relief Immigration and Legal Services Director Catherine Norquist, who described the situation as "intense."
"We are just now," added Ryan, "beginning to explore it all."
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The mission of the literacy coalition, formed eight years ago, was to promote lifelong literacy through community partnerships. Other members include the Aurora Public Library, Community Health Partnership of Illinois, Waubonsee Community College and Hesed House. While there are multiple groups offering assistance with citizenship applications and some, like World Relief, provide tutoring Family Focus and the Dominican Literacy Center also hold citizenship classes, which not only prepare students for the reading, writing and history portion of the test, but also help ready them for the interview section.
That interview, where they are grilled on what they put on their 20-page application, "is very detailed, very overwhelming, even for those who are native speakers," said Michaela McDaid, Waubonsee Community College's adult education faculty manager, who has gone through the process herself. "I speak English, and I was really nervous."
A lot of people are filling out applications, but without classes in ESL and citizenship which, Vargas points out, "are so entwined" chances of passing the test are greatly reduced.
The coalition's meeting Wednesday, they noted, was a jumping-off point and included discussions on each agency's needs, as well as the rise in the level of fear they are seeing among clients.
McDaid, for example, noted that more Waubonsee Community College students are expressing anxiety about enrollment information being used against them. Others are helping clients understand their rights if Immigration and Customs Enforcement comes knocking on their doors.
There is no doubt that considerable time and energy have gone into citizenship issues since Trump's election, and the coalition doesn't see the need abating. Most immigrants, members noted, already have their green cards. But because there is so much uncertainty and anxiety, immigrants believe legal permanent residency is no longer enough to protect them from deportation, said World Relief Executive Director Susan Sperry.
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The fact so many are now seeking the path to citizenship is a good thing, they all agree if only fear wasn't the driving factor.
"These are people who want to follow the rules," Ryan said, adding that this growing need should not be a political issue.
"This is a unifying call," she said. "This is about education. And how can you be against that?"
dcrosby@tribpub.com
Knights of Columbus Support Victims of Church Bombing in Egypt
Gift of $75,000 made in wake of December attack at Coptic Church in Cairo
Contact: Joseph Cullen, 203-800-4923, joseph.cullen@kofc.org; Andrew Walther, 203-824-5412, andrew.walther@kofc.org; both with Knights of Columbus
NEW HAVEN, Conn., March 3, 2017 /Christian Newswire/ -- Given the ongoing needs of those affected by the bombing of St Peter's Coptic Orthodox Church in Cairo on 11 December 2016, which claimed the lives of 29 people, mostly women and children, the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council has donated $75,000 to support the families of victims.
Photo: Bishop Angaelos of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom holds a copy of the report prepared by the Knights of Columbus and In Defense of Christians at a press conference in March 2016. A week later, the U.S. State Department declared that ISIS's crimes against Christians and other religious minorities in the Middle East were genocide. (Photo credit: Knights of Columbus)
Knights of Columbus Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson spoke to His Grace Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom, shortly after the bombing to arrange support for the families and communities affected by the tragic event.
Speaking on behalf of the Knights of Columbus, Supreme Knight Anderson said:
"The Knights of Columbus is honored to assist those affected by this terrible and tragic crime. Even long after events like those of December 11, the physical and emotional scars of such calamities continue to affect the victims, and it is our hope that these funds will help to heal those who have had to endure this assault. It is also our hope that this donation will highlight the solidarity we feel with our Christian brothers and sisters in Egypt. Their courage in persevering in the faith despite such attacks inspires us in our own faith, and while we are horrified by the attack, we are also deeply grateful for the Christian witness of forgiveness shown by those affected."
Commenting on the generous donation, His Grace Bishop Angaelos said:
"On behalf of His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St Mark and the Coptic Orthodox Church, we are very thankful for the generosity of Knights of Columbus, and grateful for our ongoing relationship with them. Having worked closely with Supreme Knight Anderson and the Knights of Columbus in March 2016 on the campaign to highlight the genocide of Christians in the Middle East, we know that there is much that can be achieved when we stand together to witness for those persecuted around the world, whether in Egypt or elsewhere."
The K of C was founded in 1882 by Venerable Father Michael McGivney, a parish priest, in New Haven, Connecticut. The organization was formed to provide charitable outreach and care for the financial well-being of Catholic families, focusing on the protection of widows and orphans, and on strengthening the faith of its members. It has grown to include 1.9 million members worldwide.
The Knights set a new all-time record for charitable donations in 2015, with more than $175 million in donations and more than 73.5 million hours of service valued at $1.7 billion.
UPDATE:
Franklin Graham responded to critics in an interview with a Vancouver news station. The BGEA is calling the Festival of Hope a success.
The Billy Graham Evangelical Associations (BGEA) Festival of Hope is scheduled to start tonight, March 3, 2017 in Vancouver, Canada. On the docket is a gospel message to be given by Franklin Graham. Last week, clergy representing 60 percent of the 1 million Christians in the progressive city asked Graham not to come to his own event.
On Friday, February 24, 2017, the leaders issued a public letter expressing their concerns over Graham headlining the event, which is intended to draw thousands of people to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. The reason: Grahams ties with the unpopular President Trump.
Evangelical, Catholic and mainline Protestant leaders were already compiling their concerns when the mayor of Vancouver, Gregor Robertson, approached them in February to discuss the security threat Graham represented. According to the letter released by the clergy, Robertson and the Vancouver Police Department perceived Grahams appearance as potentially inciting violence.
In their letter, the clergy articulate the thrust of their concern over Grahams appearance at the Festival this way:
Our concern is that the contentious and confrontational political and social rhetoric that Mr. Graham has used has the potential to overshadow the message of Jesus and incite hostility in our highly charged social climate.
And, more pointedly:
Regrettably, Franklin Grahams public comments appear to compromise Jesuss mission of love and justice for all.
The letter goes on to detail the specific things Graham has said about Muslims, LBGTQ+ persons and the election of President Trump:
All Muslims should be banned from the United States because Islam is a very evil and wicked religion at war with the Christian West;
LGBTQ+ persons should not be allowed to enter churches or even enter as guests into Christian homes, because the Enemy [Satan] wants to devour our homes;
The outcome of the recent U.S. presidential election was due to the hand of God, giving the impression that the Christian church as an institution is partisanly aligned with an administration and its policies.
The letter is careful to cite its sources for these documented statements made by Graham, and even includes a link to a website that contains even more of Grahams controversial rhetoric.
An even greater concern arises in the letter: that of Grahams perceived intention of aligning the Christian church with the administration and policies of U.S. President Donald Trump. The letter calls such blending of politics and religion dangerous, and says it develops a false religious narrative to support an exalted and troubling American nationalism. To state the obvious, these are no small concerns the letter addresses.
According to The Montreal Gazette, the group has been trying to negotiate with Grahams team for almost a year. The group decided to release their letter to the public eye after they received a response they felt was inadequate on Grahams part. In a cover letter attached, the group explains they were encouraged that he gave us a gracious response and has publicly pledged to avoid controversial topics while in Vancouver and to focus on the simple Gospel. However, they went ahead releasing the letter due to the fact that Mr. Graham has neither retracted nor sufficiently addressed the harmful statements to which we drew his attention.
The event in question is free to the public and features several big-name Christian musicians, including Hillsong Young & Free, Phil Wickham, For King & Country, Michael W. Smith and The Afters. Representatives of BGEA Canada say they have been praying and preparing for the event for several months. The event site does not say when exactly Graham will be speaking, but he has confirmed he will speak sometime during the March 3-5 schedule.
Graham last held a festival in Canada in 2014, the Greater Toronto Festival of Hope, and has led several other events in Canada, the first of which was in 1989. BGEA will be streaming the event on its site.
About four years ago, master blender A.J. Fernandez consolidated his factory operations which were scattered across the city of Esteli to the new, massive Tabcaelera Fernandez. Since then, Fernandez has continued to grow and expanded his operation. This led Fernandez to acquire a new factory located about 50 miles north of Esteli just outside the Totogalpa and Ocotel area. The factory is called the San Lotano factory. While many know San Lotano as A.J. Fernandezs popular brand, it is actually also the name of the brand his grandfather started in San Luis Cuba. The new San Lotano factory is now in operation, and this past February 20th, I had an opportunity to visit the new facility
Prior to the Fernandez acquisition, the San Lotano factory was known as the San Rafael factory. It was owned by Fidel Olivas. This factory was best known for producing lines for J.C. Newman Cigar Company such as El Baton and Brick House.
2016 was a huge year for A.J. Fernandez Cigars and Tabacalera Fernandez. In addition to continuing to experience growth with its own brands, the company has taken on projects for companies such as General Cigar, Altadis USA, and La Palina Cigars. The company has also continued to work on smaller production and smaller batch projects such as Foundation Cigar Company, Boutique Blends, and Southern Draw Cigars. As a result, the increased demand on production led Fernandez to acquire the San Rafael factory last year.
There is another client that A.J. Fernandez has now taken on that being Espinosa Cigars. While on a smaller scale, Espinosa has also had a challenge of increased demand from his La Zona factory. Late last year, a decision was made to move production of Espinosas 601 line to the new San Lotano factory. I managed to spend time with both Espinosa and Fernandez on my recent trip to Nicaragua and I saw how the two cigar makers connected. I can see why the two decided to work together.
At the time of my February 20th visit, the factory was only operational for a couple of weeks. Right now, there is much training going on as the company has hired new workers. While not at full capacity yet, Espinosa told me that plans are to produce eight million cigars per year here.
The decision for the new Fernandez facility to be located some 50 miles and an hour outside of Esteli might seem unusual, but there is a reason for this. Espinosa and Fernandez both explained that it is getting very difficult to find loyal workers in Esteli. It is not uncommon for a factory worker to defect to a competitors factory. With the San Lotano factory, this problem is somewhat mitigated with the distance away from Esteli. I was also told that the reason why there is training going on in the San Lotano factory is to train workers in the A.J. Fernandez way of making cigars.
At press time, Espinosas production had not commenced at the factory, but he is expecting so in the upcoming weeks. Erik Espinosa informed Cigar Coop his brands will be rolled in a separate area within the factory sort of creating the factory within a factory concept. Espinosa also told Cigar Coop that he is looking forward to leveraging some of the loyal, skilled workers he is expecting to have from this region of Nicaragua.
As for the facility, there was a real charm to it whether it was walking through the building or outside on the grounds.
Finally, if you are convinced if there is going to be a complete slow-down in the cigar industry because of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Deeming Rules, you might want to think again. Based on what Im seeing from both A.J. Fernandez and Espinosa Cigars especially with this new factory, it appears full steam ahead.
Photo Credits: Cigar Coop
Pueblo state Senate candidates dispute claims made in 'dark money' ads
Incumbent Nick Hinrichsen and GOP challenger Stephen Varela have denied claims made by outside groups spending big money on competitive races
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!
Our weekly round up of other news affecting foreign investors throughout Asia:
Malaysias FDI Outlook for 2017: Trends and Opportunities
Malaysia is one of the most stable countries in Asia in terms of economic and operational risk. Read why the prospects for FDI in 2017 remain bright and where opportunities for investment may be growing.
Mongolia Receives US$5.5 Billion Bailout from the IMF
The cash-strapped Mongolian government has reached a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and sovereign nation funds from Japan, South Korea, and China to bail out its stricken economy. A US$5.5 billion bailout has been agreed to, part of which includes a US$440 million loan package.
Smartphones and India: Foreign Manufacturers Take a Bite
Indias smartphone market is worth US$10 billion and the government is encouraging foreign smartphone manufacturers to grab a slice, pushing forward the Make in India campaign.
Indonesia Has Huge January 2017 Import-Export Surge
Indonesias trade had a huge boost in January this year as it soared to a US$1.4 billion surplus, way up from US$10 million in January 2016.
Russia Becomes Worlds Largest Supplier of Crude Oil
Russia has taken over Saudi Arabia as the worlds largest supplier of crude oil, according to the Riyadh based Joint Organisations Data Initiative. This development will benefit Chinas Silk Road infrastructure ambitions, which link Russian oilfields directly to China.
Customs Procedures in Vietnam
Following the relevant customs procedures when importing or exporting goods from Vietnam is one of the most vital aspects of doing business in a country where manufacturing costs are leveraged to its favor
About Us Our Briefing updates are written by and provided by the various regional offices of Dezan Shira & Associates throughout Asia. To obtain a complimentary subscription to Asia Briefing please click here. To contact Dezan Shira & Associates concerning foreign investment and assistance in Asia, please email us at asia@dezshira.com
Dezan Shira & Associates Brochure
Dezan Shira & Associates is a pan-Asia, multi-disciplinary professional services firm, providing legal, tax and operational advisory to international corporate investors. Operational throughout China, ASEAN and India, our mission is to guide foreign companies through Asias complex regulatory environment and assist them with all aspects of establishing, maintaining and growing their business operations in the region. This brochure provides an overview of the services and expertise Dezan Shira & Associates can provide.
An Introduction to Doing Business in ASEAN 2016
An Introduction to Doing Business in ASEAN 2016 introduces the fundamentals of investing in the 10-nation ASEAN bloc, concentrating on economics, trade, corporate establishment and taxation. We also include the latest development news in our Important Updates section for each country, with the intent to provide an executive assessment of the varying component parts of ASEAN, assessing each member state and providing the most up-to-date economic and demographic data on each.
An Introduction to Doing Business in China 2017
Doing Business in China 2017 is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in China. Compiled by the professionals at Dezan Shira & Associates in January 2017, this comprehensive guide is ideal not only for businesses looking to enter the Chinese market, but also for companies who already have a presence here and want to keep up-to-date with the most recent and relevant policy changes.
An Introduction to Doing Business in Hong Kong 2017
Doing Business in China 2017 is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in China. Compiled by the professionals at Dezan Shira & Associates in January 2017, this comprehensive guide is ideal not only for businesses looking to enter the Chinese market, but also for companies who already have a presence here and want to keep up-to-date with the most recent and relevant policy changes.
An Introduction to Doing Business in India 2017
An Introduction to Doing Business in India 2017 is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in India. As such, this comprehensive guide is ideal not only for businesses looking to enter the Indian market, but also for companies who already have a presence here and want to stay up-to-date with the most recent and relevant policy changes.
An Introduction to Doing Business in Singapore 2017
An Introduction to Doing Business in Singapore 2017 provides readers with an overview of the fundamentals of investing and conducting business in Singapore and outlines the citys role as a trading hub within ASEAN. The guide explains the basics of company establishment, annual compliance, taxation, human resources, and social insurance in the city-state.
An Introduction to Doing Business in Vietnam 2017
An Introduction to Doing Business in Vietnam 2017 will provide readers with an overview of the fundamentals of investing and conducting business in Vietnam. Compiled by Dezan Shira & Associates, a specialist foreign direct investment practice, this guide explains the basics of company establishment, annual compliance, taxation, human resources, payroll, and social insurance in this dynamic country.
By Jake Liddle
The UKs lengthy process of leaving the EU is set to begin by the end of March 2017. While reaching a positive partnership with the EU is an immediate priority for the UK, as China is one of the UKs biggest trade partners, the prospect of a free trade agreement with China is becoming more and more of an issue.
The last British government worked hard to foster a good relationship with Beijing, but the conservative attitude of the present government displayed by Prime Minister Theresa Mays protectionist stance on Chinese investment in sensitive infrastructure projects poses a threat to the so-called golden decade, enthusiastically evoked by former prime minister David Cameron.
Already, doubts over the approval of the UKs Hinkley Point C nuclear station in Somerset had arisen because of the UK governments suspicion about Chinese investment, which dampened trust with the Chinese. Indeed, the UK will have to work harder to warm relations with China.
Impact of Brexit
London was viewed as a gateway to the EU market, and Chinas interest in the city was shown when China issued its first overseas sovereign RMB bond there. But when the UK departs from the EU, Londons status as a gateway will vanish, with the city providing access to a market of 65 million as opposed to 500 million.
As the UKs economy deteriorates, so will the value of Chinas investments made in past years. There are many more significant trading partners on Chinas list than the UK, particularly as the UK will not be a feasible option as a back door to the EU for China. Further, the EU will most likely enforce rules of origin to stop Chinese imports entering through the UK.
Trade prospects
Despite this negative outlook, there is still hope for the UKs trade prospects with China. China EU trade has lagged in the past few years, and with the UK depending more and more on China in the future, this will present a new opportunity for trade. Furthermore, China sees the UK as a political partner and a leading voice for granting China market economy status.
RELATED: Business Advisory Services from Dezan Shira & Associates
According to the UK Balance of Payments 2015 Pink Book, China is the UKs seventh largest export market, accounting for 3.6 percent of the UKs overall exports. Services and goods are largely unbalanced, with a surplus of the former, and deficit of the latter.
Meanwhile, China is the UKs third largest source of imports, accounting for seven percent of imports. Overall, the UK had a trade deficit of around 19.6 billion with China in 2015. The following table details China-UK trade volume over the last 10 years.
As a country with the worlds largest population and fastest growing consumer market due to increasing disposable income, China represents a key market for British exports. Trade volume has been rising at a steady pace, and though there has been a dip in the recent years, if there is a trade agreement reached between the two countries in the future, this growth is sure to continue.
The UK exports a myriad of products to China, representing a cross-section of British industry and services. In order of volume, the largest export categories are:
The UKs share of the Chinese market has fallen to around one percent, and the reason the UK underperforms in regard to export performance in China is that its more successful exports are not in line with Chinas current demand. Other EU countries have stronger trade relationships with China, and competition in the Chinese market is very tough.
The sectors that provide the greatest income include machinery, fuels, metals, transportation services, business services, and travel services. However, the volume of UK exports to China is not exactly aligned with the rate of Chinas market growth.
As Chinas economy transitions from heavy manufacturing to a service driven economy, the balance of demand across the varying industries will shift. With services coming to the forefront of demand, the UKs greatest goods exports in terms of value to China (such as machinery, electronic products, precision instruments, and metals) will be less in demand.
These shifts in Chinas calibration should be monitored by UK-based businesses in order to align offerings with Chinas demands, especially as the UK already excels in its service exports.
Looking forward
The IMF predicts that Chinas import market will be worth over 3 trillion (US$3.6 trillion) by 2020. This presents a huge opportunity for the UK, and if trade patterns are identified and acted upon accordingly, the UK could close the gap with its European competitors in China.
While the UK will prioritize its negotiations with the EU, it will need to work significantly in rethinking its trade relationship with China in the future in order to come to a successful trade agreement. Britains relationship with China goes back centuries and includes stewardship of Hong Kong until 1999, when the territory initially developed as an international financial services hub.
Moves for the UK government to instigate free trade agreements and enhance existing double tax treaties are highly likely. Britain already has a double tax treaty with Hong Kong, and is expected to be enhanced in the financial services sector. The UK also has a double taxation agreement (DTA) with mainland China, though this is in need of updating as it does not sufficiently cover new IT technologies. Either way, there will be diplomatic and trade efforts to be put in by both sides.
For British enterprises looking to export to China, understanding the details of tax treaties and the regulatory environment can be the difference between success and failure when competing. Our firm, Dezan Shira & Associates keeps track of the trade and investment policies between both regions and enjoys an extensive, 25 year history of involvement in UK-China Trade and Investment. A background to our firms involvement with British business investing in China can be viewed here.
About Us Asia Briefing Ltd. is a subsidiary of Dezan Shira & Associates. Dezan Shira is a specialist foreign direct investment practice, providing corporate establishment, business advisory, tax advisory and compliance, accounting, payroll, due diligence and financial review services to multinationals investing in China, Hong Kong, India, Vietnam, Singapore and the rest of ASEAN. For further information, please email china@dezshira.com or visit www.dezshira.com. Stay up to date with the latest business and investment trends in Asia by subscribing to our complimentary update service featuring news, commentary and regulatory insight.
Dezan Shira & Associates and the United Kingdom: Country Brochure (Complimentary Download)
This year, Dezan Shira & Associates turns 25 years old in Asia. We retain extremely strong ties to the United Kingdom, employ numerous British nationals throughout Asia, and have serviced several hundred British companies in China and the Asian region at large since 1992. Explore Dezan Shiras partnership with British investment in China in this brochure.
An Introduction to Doing Business in China 2017 (Complimentary Download)
Doing Business in China 2017 introduces the fundamentals of investing in China, including the various establishment methods and tax implications. Compiled by the professionals at Dezan Shira & Associates, this comprehensive guide is ideal not only for businesses looking to enter the Chinese market, but also for companies who already have a presence in country and want to keep up-to-date with the most recent and relevant policy changes.
An Introduction to Doing Business in Hong Kong 2017 (Complimentary Download)
Hong Kong remains a gateway to China and still operates a British-based legal system. With different rules and regulations than mainland China, Hong Kong offers investors into China the potential for tax reductions and enhanced financial services as regards China trade and investment. Doing Business in Hong Kong 2017 is compiled by the professionals at Dezan Shira & Associates and an ideal starting point for businesses looking to leverage their China business profitability through setting up a holding company in the territory.
Using Chinas Free Trade & Double Tax Agreements
In this issue of China Briefing, we examine the role of Free Trade Agreements and the various regional blocs that China is either a member of or considering becoming so, as well as how these can be of significance to your China business. We also examine the role of Double Tax Treaties, provide a list of active agreements, and explain how to obtain the tax minimization benefits on offer.
By Alexander Chipman Koty
Chinas political, economic, and social elite are converging in Beijing this weekend for the countrys annual landmark political event, the Two Sessions. The Two Sessions refers to the two meetings of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) and the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
Little genuine debate will take place in public at the Two Sessions, as the NPC will reiterate top leaderships policies and resolutions, and the CPPCC is merely a consultative body. Both will likely approve what has already been decided by the Politburo Standing Committee, and all messages and resolutions will follow the direction set by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
However, the statements that do emerge offer insights into the Chinese governments political and economic priorities for the coming year, and therefore the overall policy direction the country will take going forward.
GDP growth targets
Coming off the slowest annual GDP growth in 26 years, the phrasing used by Premier Li Keqiang to describe Chinas 2017 growth targets will be highly scrutinized. It is expected that he will use the words about 6.5 percent, which may signal that the government actually forecasts growth to be slightly below that number. This would fall in line with the rating agency Moodys, which recently released its Chinese growth projections at 6.3 percent.
Although most expect Chinas growth to continue to slow, some are more optimistic. Earlier this week, China International Capital Corp revised its 2017 projections from 6.7 percent to 6.8 percent. Similarly, Liu Shijin, a former deputy chief of the Development Research Center of the State Council, stated that 2017 could mark the beginning of a decade of medium-rate expansion.
While some observers are more optimistic, Li and the rest of the CCP leadership seem poised to take a conservative view of the economys prospects. In 2015, the phrasing about seven percent was given for the economys growth targets, and the final figure clocked in at 6.9 percent. Last year, Chinas 6.7 percent growth fell in line with the governments target of 6.5-7 percent, a broad but more concrete range than a general approximation.
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Budget deficit forecast
As Chinas growth continues to decline, many economists expect the government to reach into its pockets to boost economic growth through increased deficit spending. In 2016, Chinas actual fiscal deficit was 3.8 percent of GDP significantly higher than the original three percent target.
Leading up to the Two Sessions, however, the government has signaled that it may opt to retain the status-quo three percent target rather than expand it. Li Pumin, secretary-general of the National Development and Reform Commission, remarked this week that China does not need a large flood irrigation type of stimulus. Some economists, such as Zhu Haibin of JPMorgan, expect the fiscal deficit target to be raised to 3.5 percent, however.
Concern has arisen in recent years over Chinas rapidly ballooning debt, and a tendency to spend in order to reach short-term growth targets in the place of long-term economic restructuring. By the end of 2016, Chinas debt-to-GDP ratio reached 277 percent, up from 254 percent at the end of 2015. Although the government may try to rein in its spending, strong stimulus measures will surely be on the table if the economy struggles.
Economic restructuring
State-owned enterprise (SOE) reform has long been a concern for Chinas economic restructuring, particularly so-called zombie companies reliant on government subsidies and riddled with corruption and inefficiencies. Vested political interests and fear over the effects of tens of thousands of employees suddenly losing their jobs have hampered reform efforts in the past.
Another area of SOE reform looks to reduce the capacity of bloated sectors such as coal, steel, aluminum, cement, and glass producers. SOEs in these industries out-produce real demand, and are also heavy polluters at a time when air quality and health concerns are at the top of peoples minds.
In 2016, an RMB 100 billion fund for laid-off workers was established as part of a plan to eliminate 1.8 million coal and steel jobs. The government appears committed to this goal, as Chinas labor minister announced last week that 500,000 jobs in steel and coal would be slashed in 2017.
In contrast to these embattled SOEs, the heads of several of Chinas prominent private companies will attend the Two Sessions as models for the economys new direction. Pony Ma, founder of internet giant Tencent, and Lei Jun, founder of the tech company Xiaomi, are two of the most prominent figures from the private sector attending the meetings. These leaders will lobby for their respective industries, offer insights from their experience, and be held as standards for Chinas emergent high-tech sector.
Xiaomi recently joined the ranks of Apple, Samsung, and fellow Chinese tech company Huawei as the only smartphone manufacturers to have designed their own chips. The Chinese government envisions its domestic tech giants, which also include Alibaba and Baidu, becoming world-class companies able to innovate and compete beyond the Chinese market as the country moves past imitation and low-cost manufacturing.
RELATED: The Changing Landscape of Chinas Manufacturing Sector
Setting the stage for the 19th Party Congress
In most years, the Two Sessions is the biggest political event. This year, it is second to the 19th National Party Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, which will be held in the fall. The congress will mark the end of President Xis first five year term and the beginning of his second, and, theoretically, final term.
However, Xi has consolidated power more quickly and aggressively than his predecessors Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao, and many expect that he will try to extend his stint as head of the CCP beyond 10 years. The upcoming congress will see older party officials retire and others fall from grace, while the next generation of the countrys leadership will take shape.
Accordingly, there will be considerable political jockeying at the Two Sessions and throughout the year, as officials compete for promotions and influence. Any movement of rising and falling political stars, down to minutiae such as who they shake hands with and where they sit, will be closely examined by observers.
The ability of officials to carry out what is resolved at the Two Sessions is therefore crucial to their ultimate political fates. As the country struggles with domestic concerns such as slowing economic growth, swelling property prices, and continual environmental and corruption issues, not to mention uncertainty vis-a-vis the US under the Trump administration, regional and state-level officials face a variety of challenges over the coming year.
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An Introduction to Doing Business in China 2017
Doing Business in China 2017 is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in China. Compiled by the professionals at Dezan Shira & Associates in January 2017, this comprehensive guide is ideal not only for businesses looking to enter the Chinese market, but also for companies who already have a presence here and want to keep up-to-date with the most recent and relevant policy changes.
New Considerations when Establishing a China WFOE in 2017
In this edition of China Briefing, we guide readers through a range of topics, from the reasons behind foreign investors preference for the WFOE as an investment model, to managing Chinas new regulations. We discuss how economic transformations have favored the WFOE, as well as the investment models utility, and detail key requirements that businesspeople need to examine before initiating the WFOE setup process. We then walk investors through the WFOE establishment process, and, finally, explain the new and idiosyncratic Actual Controlling Person regulation.
Cartoon showing a Chinese family bearing huge financial pressure for a house purchase in a school district. [Photo / The Economic Observer]
Mr. Xiong (a pseudonym) recently spent 12 million yuan (about US$1.75 million) purchasing a 39-square-meter apartment in downtown Beijing at the price of 250,000 yuan (about US$36,394) per square meter. He was willing to make the deal as he wanted his child to go to a nearby good school.
The Hongmiao Primary School, located nearby the Financial Street of central Xicheng District, is among a series of local elite schools widely recognized by students and parents.
With its growing popularity, house prices in the district have soared over the past few years.
Nowadays, many parents in Beijing don't hesitate to buy wildly expensive houses to get their children to elite schools. This education fever is behind the skyrocketing house prices in Beijing districts like Xicheng and Haidian, the Economic Observer reported.
"It wasn't an impulsive decision for me to buy the apartment here," said Mr. Xiong who already has two other apartments in the Tongzhou District of southeast suburb Beijing. Like most parents, he focuses on the school's faculty, teaching hardware and good overall education environment.
The man said he had already looked at about 200 apartments located in Haidian and Xicheng school districts before deciding on the one that seemed to best fit his family in every way.
The quality of the houses in the school district is not as high as expected, the Economic Observer noted, but parents still continue to buy as long as it is convenient for their children to go to a nearby good school. For students who have got their names registered in an appropriate school in the district, even basements have become a choice of many families because the price will tend to be lower.
Mr. Xiong revealed that he had met a person who spent 6.4 million yuan on a basement located in a school district in Deshengmen. "Even many children born after 2000 were willing to consider this," he said, adding that he himself really could not accept such a damp, gloomy living environment.
Reasons for house price rises in good school districts
The Economic Observer said it had discovered through multiple channels that there were two main reasons for the continuously soaring house prices in Beijing's good school districts.
First, to popularize high-quality school resources as much as possible, Beijing's Dongcheng and Chaoyang districts have recently abolished the former "excellent students' recommendation system." Instead, they have adopted a computer-controlled allocation system that randomly allocates students to the nearest schools to their homes.
The approach, expected to be promoted in the whole city in the future, has contributed to the hot market of good school districts to some extent.
According to the Beijing Municipal Education Commission, since 2010, the number of school-aged children has increased by 20,000 year on year, an average annual growth of 20 percent. This trend has further exacerbated people's worries about school district resources.
Second, houses in good school districts offer relative stability and resistance to price drops, so are considered an important channel for the middle class to deal with currency devaluation, and the preservation and appreciation of asset prices, despite the emergence of a housing bubble.
Chu Zhaohui, a researcher from the National Institute of Education Sciences, said the hot house market of school districts has been triggered by many reasons, including business speculation, young parents' immature education philosophy, and unbalanced educational resources.
Chu said that, with educational resources expected to become increasingly balanced in the future the phenomenon is "only a flash in the pan." According to some educational statistics, a person's success is 62 percent determined by congenital factors and only 30 percent by acquired factors.
On Feb. 22, the Ministry of Education issued a notice on its website, stipulating that, starting in 2017, for compulsory education, all students in 19 major cities including Beijing should be enrolled in schools near to their homes, particularly in the areas with the prominent problem of "school district house purchase."
Photo taken on Jan. 29, 2016 shows the mine site of the company Shougang Hierro Peru, in the district of Marcona, province of Nazca, Ica, Peru. [File photo / Xinhua]
China, Canada and the U.S. will account for 53 percent of investments in the Peruvian mining sector in the next few years, according to the new guide for mining investments published Wednesday.
The guide, which was produced by Peru's Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM) and Ernst & Young, showed that China will be the leading foreign investor in 2017-2018, with its companies planning to spend 10.189 billion U.S. dollars, or 21.6 percent of the total.
Canada will come in second place with 8.755 billion U.S. dollars, or 18.6 percent, and the U.S. in third with 6.55 billions, or 12.8 percent.
Chinese investments include the expansion of the Marcona iron mine in the southern region of Ica at a cost of 1.5 billion U.S. dollars, which is to be completed by December 2019. This will increase the mine's production to 3.5 million metric tons.
Jinzhao Mining is planning to invest 1.5 billion U.S. dollars at Pampa de Pongo mine, to complete an environmental impact assessment and begin production by 2021.
Travis Kalanick, current CEO of Uber [File photo / Xinhua]
Uber CEO Travis Kalanick apologized to all Uber employees in a note Tuesday evening after he was caught on a dashboard camera in a heated argument with a Uber driver.
"By now I'm sure you've seen the video where I treated an Uber driver disrespectfully. To say that I am ashamed is an extreme understatement," said Kalanick in the note shortly after Bloomberg published the six-minute video obtained from Fawzi Kamel, driver of the company's high-end service Uber Black.
The video caught the verbal altercation in San Francisco between Kalanick and Kamel, who was angry like many other Uber drivers about plunging fares and lower pay.
The quarrel started when Kamel argued with Kalanick for "raising the standards" while "dropping the prices."
"I lost 97,000 (U.S.) dollars because of you. I'm bankrupt because of you," Kamel complained, "You changed the whole business. You dropped the prices."
Kalanick answered back, "You know what? Some people don't like to take responsibility for their owns. They blame everything in their life on somebody else."
Kalanick climbed out of the car, spitting "good luck" behind him.
The video quickly sparked social media outrage and revived the campaign of #DeleteUber on Twitter.
Softened from his pugnacious mood in the video, Kalanick wrote in the note that the incident "cannot be explained away."
"It's clear this video is a reflection of me -- and the criticism we've received is a stark reminder that I must fundamentally change as a leader and grow up," he wrote.
"This is the first time I've been willing to admit that I need leadership help and I intend to get it," he continued. "I want to profoundly apologize to Fawzi, as well as the driver and rider community, and to the Uber team."
Changes in Uber's business model have hurt the income of many Uber drivers, as the company lowered fares to remain competitive against other ride-sharing companies.
As Bloomberg noted, an Uber Black ride cost 4.90 dollars per mile in 2012, while it now costs 3.75 per mile.
"We started high-end. We didn't go low-end because we wanted to. We went low-end because we had to because we'd be out of business," Kalanick said in the video.
ROCKY START OF YEAR
This is just the latest embarrassing story for Kalanick and Uber. The ride-hailing giant has been exposed in a string of negative press coverage over the past three months that all pointed the finger at its toxic corporate culture and dysfunctional management structure.
On Monday, Uber asked its new senior vice president of engineering to resign for failing to disclose a sexual harassment allegation against him at his former post at Google.
More than a week ago, a former engineer at Uber wrote a blog post alleging that the company's human resources personnel repeatedly ignored her sexual harassment claims as the company was reluctant to punish the "high performer."
In February, Kalanick quit from Trump's business advisory council amid intense public criticism, as his membership in the council was being read as support for the billionaire president's agenda.
In January, the company's decision to cut surge pricing was perceived by many, not to mention its many immigrant drivers, as undermining a strike by a New York taxi union protesting against U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial travel ban. It also triggered a wave of trend to delete Uber's app in a way to boycott the company.
In December, Uber pulled its self-driving fleet off the road in San Francisco, California, the company's home town, after the California Department of Motor Vehicles said they were operating illegally without an autonomous vehicle licence.
Bike-sharing boom reinvigorates manufacturers [Photo/Xinhua]
China's bicycle manufacturers are poised for a resurgence thanks to the booming bike-sharing industry.
The once dominant two-wheelers have given way to cars in recent years due to China's rising middle class. However, new bike-sharing services allow commuters to escape traffic gridlock and public transit for as little as 1 yuan (about 0.15 U.S. dollar) per hour. Users can unlock bicycles with a mobile app and drop them off anywhere for the next customer.
In the past couple of years, 29 brands have sprung up, placing more than 3 million bicycles on streets around the country and wrestling for domestic market share. Demand in China is estimated at around 20 million bikes, according to Liu Xuequan, who heads the association of the bike industry in Tianjin, the country's largest bicycle manufacturing base.
New boost
"The new business has given a push to a group of traditional bike manufacturers," Liu said.
A report from Beijing-based BigData Research showed the number of shared bicycle users exceeded 18 million as of the end of 2016 and is expected to approach 50 million by the end of this year.
"When there were no bike-sharing services, we had peak and slack seasons in production. But now, we are busy all year round," said Zhang Jinying, an executive with the Tianjin-based manufacturer Flying Pigeon, a supplier for bike-sharing service Ofo.
Four Flying Pigeon factories are scheduled to produce 900,000 bikes in March, with half of the orders from bike-sharing start-ups, Zhang said, adding that the manufacturer is working to expand production capacity and hire more workers due to ever-increasing orders.
The production standard for shared bikes is higher than for ordinary ones, since shared bikes require better endurance of some parts,
according to Zhao Kun, an R&D director at Flying Pigeon.
A bicycle's service life is around two years if five users ride it each day. That may lead to 10 million bikes that need repairs per year, creating a new market for manufacturers to compete for, according to Liu Xuequan.
Management headache
Fleets of brightly-colored shared bikes are becoming ubiquitous in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai.
They have also secured backing from the government. China's Minister of Transport Li Xiaopeng said in late February that bike sharing is innovative and should be encouraged and supported.
However, problems have arisen when users park bikes haphazardly, tarnishing the city's image and blocking traffic.
There have been a number of news reports of angry business owners or security guards who have damaged the bikes or stacked them up because the jumbled vehicles had affected their work.
In late November, urban management officers in Chengdu City, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, confiscated nearly 200 shared bikes because they violated the city's parking regulations. A similar seizure was reported in Hangzhou City, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, in December.
Some bikes have been damaged by drivers of motorbike taxis and electric tricycles because bike-sharing has taken away their passengers. Vandals and ill-behaved bike users have also caused trouble.
A set of photos that have gone viral have exposed such acts: abandoning bikes in a river, inserting needles into the saddle, and destroying QR codes in order to steal bikes.
In one photo, a yellow bike was reduced to its basic frame after being stripped of most of its parts, with a caption saying "Well, no problem, it is for 'sharing.'"
Such vandalism has prompted police intervention. On Feb. 28, Chengdu police detained a man who ran a traditional bike rental business for burning and burying more than 10 shared bikes from various brands two days earlier.
Liu Xuequan disclosed that manufacturers are working on technical upgrades to prevent bikes from being dismantled or stolen.
Ofo founder and CEO Dai Wei said bike misuse has not created a notable loss for the company.
"During the past three months, 'inactive bikes,' which means they might have been damaged or taken home, only accounted for 1 percent of the total," he said, while calling all users to treat the vehicles nicely.
Ofo has hired workers to ensure the bikes are returned in good condition and parked properly. Rival Mobike has enlisted its users to help track down lost bikes and maintain orderly parking. Some local governments have rolled out rules to regulate parking.
Minister Li Xiaopeng said it requires joint efforts from the government, service providers and customers to maintain smooth rides for shared bikes.
New era, new chances for courier service sector [Xinhua]
China's courier service sector entered a new era with the listing of all major players, Ma Junsheng, head of the State Post Bureau (SPB), said in an interview with Xinhua.
While the overall prospects for the sector are excellent, Ma pointed out some problems and called for efforts to turn challenges into opportunities.
THE NEXT TERA-YUAN INDUSTRY
The year started with a big bang for couriers, which posted a year-on-year revenue growth of 6.2 percent, collecting 31 billion yuan (4.5 billion U.S. dollars) in January.
On Feb. 24, the listing of SF Express on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange made it the last of the top five private courier services to go public. Its share price then rose for five consecutive days.
"With more capital, the industry enters a new stage of competition and will embrace a shake-up in structure," Ma said. "Giants with all-round capabilities and reaches will emerge."
He called these the "aircraft carriers" of the sector, technology-laden heavyweights with high risk resistance, offering quality services without damaging the environment.
China has about 19,000 courier companies, most of which are vulnerable small businesses in a fragmented market. Capital inflow is revving up competition and forcing out players. SF Express, backed by the capital market, is likely to become China's answer to global leader FedEx.
By 2020, China expects to have become the world's largest express delivery market with a business revenue of 800 billion yuan. Powerhouses able to generate over 100 billion yuan a year will emerge, and the country will be home to at least two leading world brands.
Courier delivery, buoyed by prospering online shopping in rural areas and cross-border e-commerce, should be the next sector worth over a trillion yuan.
BILLIONAIRE AND FOOT-SOLDIER
Following the listing of SF Express, photos of an ordinary courier standing next to the company's founder Wang Wei went viral on the Internet.
In April 2016, the young deliver man was assaulted by a man in Beijing after his electric tricycle struck the man's car. Flanking himself with a an ordinary delivery boy, Wang, one of the country's richest men, earned himself a groundswell of plaudits.
"The happiness and sense of belonging of delivery men must not be neglected," Ma Junsheng said, hailing Wang's respect for the rank-and-file.
The event also cast light on a sector which relies on a vast legion of low paid workers whose trips, mostly by scooters and tricycles, keep China's e-commerce revolution on track.
"They lack a sense of security and turnover is high," Ma said, recalling his visits to local courier service stations over past months. "Employers must improve pay and benefits."
TOMORROW'S HIGHLIGHTS
China's courier service sector has expanded by 50 percent in each of the last six years, which has brought new challenges.
The sector is heavily dependent on e-commerce, with 65 percent of parcels generated by online shopping, said Zhao Guojun with Beijing University of Post and Telecommunications.
That reliance has meant a price war and squeezed profit margins, ultimately encroaching on the welfare of grassroots workers, said Xu Yong, an industry analyst.
As the reshuffle continues, profit margins will further drop. Gross profits have plummeted from 30 percent in 2007 to below 10 percent. Besides, the sector needs to better integrate itself with manufacturing and agriculture, Ma said,
"The industry needs reform and innovation to turn today's difficulties into tomorrow's highlights," he said.
Hershey's chocolates are displayed at a food exhibition in Changzhou, Jiangsu province. [Photo/China Daily]
Hershey Co, the biggest chocolate maker in North America, will cut about 2,700 jobs from its global work force because of declining overseas sales, especially in China where its 2013 purchase of Shanghai Golden Monkey (SGM) has turned out to be more of a problem than a business builder.
The company said on Tuesday that the implementation of its "Margin for Growth" program will reduce its global workforce of about 18,000 by approximately 15 percent, primarily in its hourly headcount outside of the US. Hershey didn't specify where the job cuts would occur.
JP Morgan analyst Ken Goldman said he believed many would come from SGM, the Associated Press reported. Hershey CEO Michele Buck said the China business would undergo a transformation over the next three years, according to Reuters.
The layoffs are part of a plan to help its international businesses "return to profitability as soon as possible" and to boost profits, Buck said.
In its fourth-quarter report released last month Hershey said North American sales, which account for 85 percent of total sales, rose 3.2 percent, but sales in China declined 16.6 percent.
Hershey began an international expansion in 2013 with the purchase of a stake in SGM, which makes and distributes Golden Monkey candy, chocolates, protein-based products and snack foods in the Chinese mainland. Eventually Hershey acquired all of SGM.
In 2015, the Pennsylvania-based maker of Hershey's Kisses, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and Kit Kat and other products, cut its profit outlook and announced the elimination of 300 jobs due to slow sales growth in China.
David Mandel, a research analyst with Consumer Edge Research LLC, said Hershey may have taken on too much with the SGM purchase.
"They added thousands of employees and eventually SGM took down the company's international business," Mandel said in an interview. "I believe Hershey will now try to build its China business through an e-commerce approach."
Mandel said that could include working more closely with Alibaba's popular Tmall platform.
Hershey was optimistic about the SGM purchase and its expansion into other emerging markets like Brazil and India, hoping to increase revenue from the international business to 25 percent from 10 percent.
"They were hit by macro-economic problems and a slowdown in the emerging markets that really had nothing to do with Hershey," said Mandel.
Buck said Hershey will take $175 million in cost savings from the cutbacks to improve operating margins in its legacy brands and expand its offerings in the $100 billion US snack market.
The company also cut its long-term sales growth forecast to between 2 percent and 4 percent, from 3 percent to 5 percent.
Hershey faces challenges in the snack market as US consumers turn to healthier eating options and shop more online, which can reduce impulse buying at a store's checkout station. The company will also have to battle competitors such as Mondelez International, Pepsico and Mars.
Hershey rejected a $23 billion takeover offer from Mondelez last year.
Tiny fossils that scientists say are the oldest ever found offer evidence of life on Earth 3.8 to 4.3 billion years ago, when our planet was still in its infancy, researchers reported on Wednesday.
Even at the more primitive end of the spectrum, "the microfossils we discovered are about 300 million years older" than any runners-up, said Dominic Papineau, a professor at University College London, who made the discovery.
Dating puts the fossils "within a few hundred million years" of the formation of the solar system, he said.
The results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature.
The emergence of life not long after Earth formed would suggest it also could emerge on watery worlds outside our solar system at comparable stages of formation, the scientists said.
"If life happened so quickly on Earth, then could we expect it to be a simple process that could start on other planets?" asked the lead author, Matthew Dodd, a graduate student at the London Centre for Nanotechnology.
Earth and Mars are believed to have had liquid water on their surfaces at the same time, he noted.
"We could expect to find evidence for past life on Mars 4 billion years ago," Dodd said.
But it may be that Earth was "just a special case", he added.
The tiny fossils half the width of a human hair and up to half a millimeter in length take the form of blood-red tubes and filaments formed by ocean-dwelling bacteria that fed on iron.
Locked inside white, flowerlike quartz structures known to harbor fossils, they were found along what were once warm-water vents on the ocean floor, most often in deep waters.
Such iron-rich, hydrothermal systems still exist and are home to bacteria that may be similar to those unearthed by Dodd and his colleagues.
The site of the discovery, the Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt in Canada, contains some of the oldest sedimentary rocks known on Earth.
Scientists say they formed between 3.77 and 4.29 billion years ago, and may have been the habitat for the planets first life-forms.
It is still not known when, or where, life on Earth began, but these deep-sea vents are seen as a good candidate.
Earth is thought to be about 4.57 billion years old, scientists said.
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The State Council on Friday announced the appointment and removal of several leading officials.
Ding Xuedong was appointed State Council deputy secretary-general in place of Xiao Jie.
Wang Shuangquan was named vice justice minister, and Tang Jun has replaced Liu Yuting as deputy head of China's State Administration for Industry and Commerce.
Guo Shuqing was appointed chairman of China Banking Regulatory Commission. Shang Fulin no longer holds the post.
Chen Gang was nominated deputy director of the Office of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project Construction Committee under the State Council.
Wang Kun was named deputy head of China Geological Survey, and Luo Liming was removed from the post of deputy director of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission.
The target [By Zhai Haijun / China.org.cn]
Over the past few years, Washington has attracted the attention of the world. Donald Trump, the 45th president of the United States, took office on Jan. 20, and on the same day the White House website announced the objectives of the new government. In his inaugural address, Trump criticized the U.S. government and said that a small group in the nation's capital had reaped the rewards of the government while the people have borne the cost. Trump declared that he is not only transferring power from one administration to another or from one party to another, but transferring power from Washington D.C. and giving it back to the people."
The change in American leadership has aroused great concern around the world. Meanwhile, the relationship between China and the United States is becoming a hot topic.
Why is the China-U.S. relation significant to the world?
Though in his inaugural speech Trump did not outline his domestic and foreign policy in details, his emphasis on "America first" clearly shows that American foreign policy will be done based on "American interests."
As a businessman, Trump views diplomacy and the development of the United States from a commercial point of view. Due to his business-oriented mindset, Trump ignores the principle of mutual benefit and common interests, and there is no comprehensive understanding of the American alliance system.
Based on "America first" policy, Trump's domestic and foreign policy is likely to be tightening. However, internal anxiety in the United States is gradually growing, and his policies will irritate international allies. Although Trump has made a spectacular American strategic layout for the United States, how much his ignorance of mutual benefit and win-win conception will promote American development is hard to predict.
What influence does Trump have on China-U.S. relations?
Trump gave speeches on the issue of "China Threat Theory" many times during his election campaigns. He accused China of affecting U.S. employment and of deliberately depreciating the RMB exchange rate to expand exports. Facts show that Trump's attitude towards China is biased.
From 1950 to 2016, China has offered various types of aid projects worth some 40 trillion yuan to more than 50 developing countries. Since the 1980s, China has attracted total foreign investment of over 170 trillion U.S. dollars. And after the outbreak of the international financial crisis, the contribution that China has made to the development of the global economic growth is more than 30 percent. All these figures show that China's development is an opportunity for the world.
Firstly, China is the largest trading partner of more than 100 countries and regions, as well as the country with world's largest intermediate goods trade. Chinese intermediate goods trade accounted for more than 60 percent of global trade, and these goods are mainly exported to the United States and the EU, which promote labor divisions and cooperation in the global value chain.
Secondly, the expansion of market capacity, the balance of domestic investment and consumption structure push the United States and the EU as well as other developed countries to export high-quality goods and high technology to China. Finally, the "Belt and Road" initiative spurs global infrastructure investment and accelerates the productivity in the global economy.
However, Trump regards China from a competitive point of view, and thus lacks a comprehensive vision. In the era of globalization, the interests between countries are so highly integrated and interdependent that no country can develop on its own. Trump has repeatedly put pressure on China in trade policy, ignoring the China-U.S. cooperation benefits. Sino-U.S. economic and trade relations are, in reality, mutually beneficial and win-win. Conflicts on trade will only damage each party and harm others.
As a Chinese old saying goes, "Practice what you preach;" there is a similar expression in the Western world: "Desire needs to be acted upon." No matter how arduous and tortuous it can be, China and the U.S. have the responsibility to work together for the well-being of themselves and for the peaceful development of the world as a whole. As President Xi Jinping said, "As long as we persevere and step forward firmly in one direction, we will promote the construction of new Sino-U.S. relations and benefit the people of all nations."
Zhang Shenglei, PhD in International Relationships, Macau University of Science and Technology.
Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
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Flash
Turkey will attack the Kurdish-backed militants in northern Syria's Manbij city "unless they withdraw," Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday, as reported by Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency.
Turkey will strike the Peoples' Protection Units (YPG), the military wing of the Syrian Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD), if they do not withdraw from Manbij, said Cavusoglu.
Syria's PYD and YPG must exit Manbij as it is the next target of the Turkey-backed Free Syrian Army (FSA), said Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday.
Manbij is a city in the Syrian Aleppo Governorate, about 30 km south of the border between Turkey and Syria.
The city is also a previous Islamic State (IS) bastion, currently controlled by Kurdish forces.
Turkey regards the PYD and YPG as terrorist organizations due to their links to Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).
Turkey's army launched "Operation Euphrates Shield "on Aug. 24, 2016, in order to drive out terrorist organizations from its borders including the IS and Kurdish militants, mainly the PYD.
Turkey has repeatedly vowed to prevent PKK and PYD from establishing a corridor for terrorists on Turkey's doorstep.
Flash
The Islamic State (IS) group withdrew from the ancient city of Palmyra in central Syria on Thursday, as the Syrian army swept into the city following intense battles, a monitor group reported.
The Syrian government forces were sweeping the city in search of mines and explosive devices, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
The London-based watchdog group said that explosions were still being heard inside the city due to the large number of explosives and bombs.
The Syrian army backed by Russian air forces and fighters of the Lebanese Hezbollah group unleashed a counter offensive to retake the city on Jan. 14 this year, just days after the IS militants took the city for the second time.
Last December, the group stormed the city for the second time after losing it nine months earlier to the Syrian army.
Palmyra contains monumental ruins of a great city, one of the most important cultural centers of the ancient world.
The IS militants blew up several 2,000-year-old monuments and relics in Palmyra during their first and second invasion of the city in 2015 and late 2016.
Flash
The Kurdish-backed Manbij Military Council (MMC) said Thursday it has concluded a deal with Russia to hand over areas in northern Syria to the Syrian government forces.
In a statement, the MMC said it will give control of areas near the city of Manbij in the countryside of Aleppo in northern Syria to the government forces.
Such areas are on the frontline with Turkish-backed Euphrates Shield rebels, who were closing in to dislodge the Kurdish-backed rebels out of Manbij.
This way, the army forces will be separating the Turkish-backed rebels from the Kurdish-led ones.
The separation aims at sparing the civilians the woes of confrontation between both rebel groups, and to maintain peace and security in the city of Manbij and its countryside.
It also aims at cutting the road in front of the Turkish attempts to capture more Syrian territories, according to the statement.
This comes as the Syrian army has advanced against the Islamic State (IS) group in the eastern countryside of Aleppo, reaching the outskirts of Manbij.
It coincided with progress made by the Turkish forces and allied rebel fighters against IS in the city of al-Bab in the countryside of Aleppo.
Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that six Turkish-backed rebels were killed a day earlier during battles with the Kurdish-led ones west of Manbij.
For his side, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu repeated previous pledges that his forces will capture Manbij, following taking al-Bab, which was the largest IS stronghold in northern Syria, near the Turkish borders.
He said during a press conference on Thursday that if the Kurdish groups didn't withdraw from Manbij, "we will shell them."
He noted that his country has an agreement with Russia that the Turkish-led forces will not advance south of al-Bab, where the Syrian army has reached recently.
Still, it's not known how the Turkish-led groups will deal with the new agreement between the MMC and Russia.
Kurdish activists said Thursday that the Turkish forces shelled the village of Olashili west of Manbij, leaving property losses.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), which is backing the MMC and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said Thursday that the YPG hasn't sent reinforcements to Manbij, adding that the MMC hasn't requested for backup yet.
As part of the growing Kurdish-Turkish tension, the SDF said the Turkish-backed rebels pounded SDF-controlled areas in the northern countryside of Aleppo with mortar shells on Thursday.
Tension is growing in northern Syria between the Kurdish-supported groups and the Turkish ones, as part of Ankara's determination to curb the influence of the Kurds in northern Syria, near the Turkish borders.
On the other side, the Syrian army, which has been critic and repeatedly condemned the Turkish operations in northern Syria, is apparently coordinating with the Kurds.
Reports said that the Syrian army will open a road between Manbij and Aleppo, to facilitate trade movements between Aleppo and the northeastern part of Syria, which has for long been isolated due to the presence of IS groups.
Flash
U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said Thursday he will recuse himself from any current or future investigations into Russia's possible link with Donald Trump's presidential campaign, one day after media reports revealed he spoke with Russian Ambassador twice last year but didn't reveal it at the Senate hearings for his confirmation.
Attorney General-designate Jeff Sessions testifies at his nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C., the United States, Jan. 10, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]
"I did meet with one Russian official a couple of times", he said at a press conference Thursday afternoon, while dismissing any accusation that he tried to mislead the Senate about his contacts with Russia.
"That is not my intent. That is not correct", he said.
His agreement to step aside from such probes "should not be interpreted as confirmation of the existence of any investigation," Sessions added.
Earlier on Thursday, Trump told reporters that he has "total" confidence in Sessions over the controversy though he "wasn't aware" that Sessions, the then Republican senator, had contact with Sergey Kislyak, the Russian ambassador to the United States at the time.
But bipartisan pressure for Sessions to resign or step aside from such investigations is mounting as top Democrats at the Capitol, Nancy Pelosi in the House and Chuck Schumer in the Senate, urged him to depart.
Sessions lied under oath at the Senate hearings, Pelosi accused earlier Thursday.
Schumer said the Justice Department should appoint a special prosecutor to examine whether the ongoing probe has been compromised by Sessions.
Sessions spoke on the phone privately with Russian Ambassador to Washington from his office in September, said media reports Wednesday night.
Two months before the phone talk, Sessions also met with Kislayk and talked to him informally when attending an event held at conservative think tank Heritage Foundation along with 50 other ambassadors, Session's spokeswoman Sara Isgur Flores has confirmed. "It was short and informal," the spokeswoman said Wednesday night, adding that as a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee at the time, Sessions regularly met foreign ambassadors.
"I never met with any Russian officials to discuss issues of the campaign. I have no idea what this allegation is about. It's false", Sessions released a statement around midnight in a failed attempt to count down the new wave of political storm.
During the Senate hearings earlier this year, when asked what he would do if he learned a member of Trump's campaign had communicated with the Russian government over the course of the 2016 campaign, Sessions responded: "I'm not aware of any of those activities ... I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians."
Officials at the Justice Department said Sessions did not consider his talks with Kislyak relevant to the lawmakers' questions and did not remember their discussion in detail.
Sessions was an early Trump supporter and one of his top advisers during the New York billionaire's campaign last year.
Trump's first National Security Adviser Michael Flynn stepped down last month after it was reported that he had discussed U.S. sanctions with Kislyak in December, and misled Vice President Mike Pence about the details.
Kilamba, c. 2012 Anyone who has been to Luanda knows that the city lacks housing. The hotels are extremely expensive, and researchers h...
Ministry calls on retailer to abide by local laws
Beijing on Thursday strongly urged Seoul to halt the installation of an advanced US anti-missile system, and called on involved South Korean conglomerate Lotte Group to comply with local laws when operating in China.
China's Ministry of Commerce spokesman Sun Jiwen made the remarks on Thursday at a news conference amid Chinese netizens' anxiety and anger, stirred up by South Korea's planned deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system, whose radar was reportedly able to cover parts of China and Russia.
South Korea signed a land swap deal on Tuesday with Lotte for the missile shield.
"South Korea's THAAD deployment plan not only gravely undermines China's strategic security interests, but also hurts the two countries' bilateral cooperation," Sun said.
He called on South Korea to "stop going further on the wrong path".
"We understand the legitimate concerns of the relevant parties in maintaining their own safety, but one country's security should not come at the sacrifice of another," Sun continued.
In the grip of the overriding sentiment, quite a few Chinese netizens expressed their opposition to Lotte's products and services.
In response to the simmering anger, Sun said, the government welcomes all foreign companies, including those headquartered in South Korea, to do business in China, and will always protect their legitimate rights.
"But the premise is that the enterprises must comply with Chinese laws", Sun added.
Lotte, South Korea's fifth largest conglomerate, has suffered sluggish retail business in the Chinese market, with its same store sale growth shrinking by 14 percent last year at year-on-year basis.
Lotte has opened 115 supermarkets in China since entering the country in 1994. It planned to close three retail stores in China in 2017 due to its declining performance in 2016, the company said earlier.
Being a latecomer to China's highly competitive retail market, Lotte has less than a 1 percent market share in the country, due to limited advantages in terms of location, merchandise and price, according to Jason Yu, general manager of market research firm Kantar Worldpanel China.
Last December, the group called an end to a $2.6 billion-worth theme-park project in Shenyang, Liaoning province.
Zhao Ping, deputy director of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, under the Ministry of Commerce, said that from a long-term perspective, the incident would have limited impact on China-South Korean economic and trade relations.
Trade volume between China and South Korea was 166.7 billion yuan in 2016, down 2.7 percent from a year earlier, according to Customs data. China is South Korea's largest trade partner.
Joggers and pedestrians cross Westminster Bridge beside the Houses of Parliament and the Big Ben clock tower in London, UK, July 20, 2016. [Photo/VCG]
Strengthening relations with Beijing is vital for the British capital, amid the uncertainty of Brexit, said the Lord Mayor of the City of London following his visit to China.
Andrew Parmley said he hopes to use his year as Lord Mayor to promote teaching of Mandarin in the United Kingdom's schools and to encourage British tourists to visit China.
Andrew Parmley, Lord Mayor of the City of London. [Photo provided to China Daily]
"Through understanding comes tolerance and friendship," he told China Daily on Tuesday.
His trip to Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin and Hong Kong included discussions about financial cooperation, green finance, financial technology and renminbi internationalization. Parmley described the meetings as productive.
"There is great scope for collaboration," he said. "We have experience in financial services, setting up financing vehicles and consultancy, and China has experience in major infrastructure development.
"We hope to be involved in all aspects. Every time I visit a country I say, 'give us your shopping list of things you hope to find to your benefit and we will find a team of financiers in London for it'."
Parmley's embrace of language and culture highlights a difference in his background from previous lord mayors, who have often been drawn from the banking sector. Parmley, who was born in Manchester in 1956, has been head of music at four secondary schools, and is an honorary fellow and visiting professor at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, a performance arts school in the center of London's financial district.
The Lord Mayor's visit came with London facing significant threats to its financial sector. The Brussels-based think tank Bruegel estimates the City of London could lose 30,000 financial jobs as European Union clients move business worth 1.8 trillion euros ($1.9 trillion) to the continent following the UK's departure from the EU.
Although Chinese financial institutions in London have not publicly talked about how Brexit might affect them, they are also threatened by it.
If the UK loses its passporting rightsthe right to sell financial services freely in the EUChinese banks may no longer finance European deals through their London branches. Renminbi products issued in London could also become a hard sell for European institutional investors and funds with mandates to only invest in European domiciled assets.
But having a good relationship with China could unleash new opportunities, such as the financing of business deals within countries impacted by the Belt and Road Initiative, an infrastructure plan that extends from Asia to Europe.
The UK government said last year it would invest up to 40 million pounds ($49.04 million) in the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, which finances projects in the Belt and Road region.
Meanwhile, the City's financial experts expect London to still have much to offer China, especially through its ability to help internationalize the use of the renminbi.
"As the main hub for the offshore trading of the yuan, London will also be the incubator for modern financial products, including new financial technologies and green finance among others," said Jan Dehn, head of research at London-based Ashmore Investment Management.
BEIJINGCindat Capital Management Ltd, a Chinese investment firm focusing on overseas property, is seeking to spend $2 billion this year on elderly homes in the United States to capitalize on an ageing population.
The Beijing-based company, backed by bad-loan manager China Cinda Asset Management Co, is evaluating two investments of about $1 billion each into senior housing properties in the US, Co-Founder and CEO Greg Peng said.
"This is probably the only sector in the US where the supply has not met the fundamental demand," Peng said in an interview Wednesday in Hong Kong. "When the baby boomers turn 70 in the next five to 10 years, there'll be a huge increase in the old-age population, driving demand for senior health-care real estate."
The US population over 65 is projected to increase 18 percent in the five years through 2020 to reach 56 million, according to the US Census Bureau. Other Chinese investors have also been making acquisitions of senior housing and nursing homes in the country, with Taikang Insurance Group agreeing in November to buy a $1 billion stake in NorthStar Realty Finance Corp's health-care real estate portfolio.
Cindat teamed up with Beijing-based Union Life Insurance Co for a $930 million deal announced the same month to buy a 75 percent stake in a portfolio of US elderly homes owned by Welltower Inc. The assets include 11 senior housing properties leased to Brookdale Senior Living Inc and 28 post-acute care and nursing homes leased to Genesis Healthcare Inc.
The Chinese firm targets an annual nominal return of at least 10 percent from its senior housing portfolio, Cindat Managing Director Allan He said in the same interview.
"The investment returns are much higher compared with commercial properties, whose returns are usually capped at single-digit," He said. About 15 percent of the US population over 65 currently lives in elderly homes, a penetration rate that's set to rise, according to He.
BLOOMBERG
A potential homebuyer checks out a property project in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, Dec 17, 2016. [Asianewsphoto by Long Wei]
HANGZHOU - Authorities in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou on Thursday unveiled more steps to restrict housing purchases in a bid to cool down the property market.
Hangzhou bureau of housing security and management announced that as of Friday, people without local "hukou" (permanent residence permits) need records of two years of income tax and social security payments made in the last three years if they want to buy a house there. Currently they only need to have paid for one of the previous two years to be eligible.
Those with local hukou are to be banned from buying third homes.
The bureau also expanded the ban to cover two more districts. Since the city resumed housing purchase restrictions in most of its urban areas in September 2016, large number of home buyers bought houses in Fuyang and Dajiangdong districts. Non-local buyers made more than 40 percent of purchases in Dajiangdong in the past three months, according to tmsf.com, a Hangzhou-based housing market research institute.
Similar purchase restrictions have been introduced in Shenzhen, which borders Hong Kong.
Second-home sales in Shenzhen slumped 37.7 percent month on month, or 71.4 percent year on year, to 242,085 square meters in February, according to the city urban planning, land and resources commission.
Despite the decline in sales, the average prices remained resilient, edging up 0.7 percent month on month to 54,500 yuan ($7,900) per square meter.
Wang Feng, head of the Shenzhen real estate research center, said further tightening measures were expected, and prices in Shenzhen would likely fall about 5 percent in the first half of the year.
But in the mid- and long-term, the Shenzhen market will continue to boom, said Wang.
KATHMANDU - Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) President Jin Liqun said on Thursday that the China-sponsored bank has an important role to play in teaming up with governments and international organizations to address infrastructure challenges of the countries like Nepal.
Nepal faces infrastructure deficit up to $18 billion in this decade, having one of the poorest infrastructures in South Asia, according to a World Bank study.
Nepal, an AIIB founding member, is seeking financing from the bank to address this gap.
Addressing the Nepal Investment Summit on Thursday, Jin said that the AIIB was committed to work with Nepalese government and the private sector to make meaningful differences in Nepal's economic and social development through investment in infrastructure and other productive sectors.
According to the Nepalese officials, the AIIB has initiated process for lending to two of the five projects proposed by Nepal -- one on urban infrastructure development and the other related to electricity distribution system improvement.
Jin insisted the ethos of AIIB, saying the bank promotes lean, clean and green governance.
"As a multilateral development bank, a part of our job is to help countries to pick the projects that would help social and economic outcomes without environmental degradation and global warming," he said.
During the summit, Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said "Nepal is prioritizing to create good political environment for investors as well as introduce rules and regulations friendly to local and foreign investors."
Nepalese Industry Minister Nabindra Raj Joshi explained about investment in Nepal saying that the Himalayan country is one of the most open economies in South Asia.
"We allow 100 percent foreign ownership in most of the sectors. Our tax rates are lower than most of the countries in South Asia. The government is receptive to the constructive ideas coming from the investors. The reforms in our system and procedures are on-going," he said.
After introducing Industrial Enterprise Act, Special Economic Zones Act, Nepal is in the final process of introducing new company law. "This is expected to expect to make the exit easier and faster," said Joshi.
HANOI - High hopes are pinned on China to spur world trade and economic growth in the context of rising populism and simmering sentiment against globalization, said analysts.
China's strength against negative changes
"Britain leaving the European Union and Donald Trump becoming the US president signal the rise of populism, anti-globalization, objection of free migration and trade protectionism," said Do Tien Sam, editor in chief of the China Research Journal published by the Institute for Chinese Studies in Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, in a recent interview.
As an expert who has studied China for a long time, Sam said China's economic development is based on the three pillars of exports, investment and consumption.
"Among the three pillars, consumption plays a great role. Chinese people consume goods and commodities, which creates attraction, confidence for investors, as well as for other developing countries," said the expert.
In spite of difficulties in exports amid rising protectionism, China's "huge spending power" ensures it has a better position to deal with the challenge than others, said Sam.
Sam pointed out that if China can maintain its economic growth at 6.5-7 percent a year, it will be a contribution to the world economy, especially in the context of rising trade protectionism.
China has benefited from globalization, and now China will be the one that continues to boost globalization and shares its achievements with other countries, said the expert.
When talking about the coming meetings of China's National People's Congress and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference this month, Sam said they are of great importance in adopting measures to tackle profound changes in the world.
Active pursuit for common benefit
Public services proposed by China such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) are being recognized and welcomed by the world, said Chen Fengying, a research fellow at the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations.
"In global governance, China has become an active participant and builder ... China's blueprint is not only for its own development but also that of the world as a whole," said Chen.
China has also been easing the inflow of foreign capital as part of efforts to facilitate its opening-up, reducing restrictive measures and opening more sectors.
China announced in January the modification of the Catalogue of Industries for Guiding Foreign Investment and related regulations to considerably lower the threshold for foreign investment in services, manufacturing and mining sectors.
Addressing a meeting in Beijing on Monday, Chinese Commerce Minister Zhong Shan promised more efforts in briskly introducing foreign investment.
This includes propelling the development of free trade zones, pushing for reforms in foreign investment management, and improving the business environment, said Zhong.
Foreign direct investment on the Chinese mainland rose 4.1 percent year on year last year.
Overseas analysts have credited the Chinese leadership for accurate and coherent policies in the country's development.
Amid changing regional and international situations with numerous challenges, China has managed to gain enormous accomplishments under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), said Tran Viet Thai, deputy director of the Institute for Foreign Policy and Strategic Studies at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam.
"It is a huge effort, bravery and determination," said Thai.
Chinese Commerce Minister Zhong Shan receives an interview before the opening of the fifth session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference in Beijing, on Mar 3, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]
BEIJING China will adjust the growth pattern in foreign trade from simply expanding the volume to improving structural quality, China's new Commerce Minister Zhong Shan said on Friday.
The Ministry of Commerce will make further efforts to strengthen China's role as a big trading nation and push for its increasing prowess in the sector, Zhong said on the sidelines of the fifth session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
China's foreign trade has stabilized and returned to growth in recent months, but concerns are looming on rising trade protectionism in some countries that is likely to bring uncertainties to the outlook.
In a good start to 2017, China's foreign trade reached 2.18 trillion yuan (about $316.4 billion) in January, up 19.6 percent year-on-year.
Last year, total export and import value decreased 0.9 percent year-on-year to 24.33 trillion yuan, narrowing down from a 7 percent decline in 2015.
Zhong was appointed commerce minister to replace Gao Hucheng last month.
Andy Polansky, chief executive officer of Weber Shandwick. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Weber Shandwick leads from front in fast-moving market, says its chief
Disrupted by the wave of digital transformation coursing through industry, gone are the days when public relations professionals could solely focus on helping a client navigate a steady course within a predictable set of known business challenges.
But Andy Polansky, chief executive officer of Weber Shandwick, said his profession has never been needed moreor held in higher regardand for very good reason.
Marketers nowadays face a dazzling pace of change and ever-shifting and variable situations, where a single tweet can easily threaten a business reputation that's been decades in the making. But it is such uncertainty that makes offering solutions and strategic advice for brands more valuable than ever before.
With a history of 20 years in China, Weber Shandwick does not position itself as a traditional PR firm, distributing press releases and organizing media conferences. Polansky said it is instead a combination of designers, strategists, conversation-starters and storytellers, enabling homegrown brands and multinational corporations to grow a business or establish an international presence in the digital age.
Helping to serve the Olympics project in Beijing and the World Expo in Shanghai, Polansky's team knows intimately the complex dynamics of the Chinese market. He is launching what he says are some of the group's most pioneering programs in China before rolling them out to other markets.
The following are edited excerpts of the interview with Polansky:
What do you see as the major changes of the PR industry today?
First of all, social media is becoming a more serious business. The days of simply using it as a general content and conversational channel are over. But rather, platforms are a means to material ends, shifting coverage agendas, breaking news, micro-targeting ads, etc.
Second, brands lacking a business-driven, digital content strategy, and the data driven operations behind it will stumble, losing out to their competitors.
What are the emerging trends among Chinese brands on the PR front?
One thing for sure is that mobile will continue to drive plenty of conversation and investment. China is at the forefront of the whole mobile transformation, so there have been demands for multi-platform campaigns. So we coined a term called 3C: establish content suitable for mobile platforms, identify the right community to engage with them and then close what we call the commerce loop.
For instance, we helped a coffee brand establish a presence in China, not through traditional advertising. We opened a WeChat store first. We add creative content through the WeChat posts and build a strong fan base, so that when they think of buying coffee machines they can think of the brand and shop online.
What are the initiatives you first created in China and then used for the rest of the world?
Apart from 3C we also unveiled a key opinion leader network called Kloud, an influencer management tool, first in China, to engage leaders in the digital landscape. It's an in-house database of around 20,000 key opinion leaders.
With millions of social media followers in China and around the world, many Chinese influencers wield enormous power in the market. Yet brands in China have found it challenging to manage the large number of influencers in varied categories in a strategic, concerted way.
So we created this influencer engagement tool that assists organizations overcome this challenge, by identifying and tapping into relevant key opinion leaders, and using big data to spot passion points, topics, and trends as they emerge.
What is your competitive edge over your rivals?
Our strategy is to be a high-performing company and win market share, and that's not just within the realms of traditional public relations companies. I see Weber Shandwick as a major player in the broader marketing services industry. So we are thinking about digital and social media and look for opportunities to extend beyond the public relations sector.
Another strength we have is deep specialization. If you look at different industry sectorslike healthcare, technology, financial serviceswhat makes our business distinctive is that we have people who come from these industries. We have PhDs from the pharmaceutical industry, we have people who were working for banks, we also have a lot of former journalists. The most important thing is fostering collaboration in that culture. That's very hard to replicate from a competitive standpoint.
Are you optimistic about business in China?
Yes, I am optimistic. If you look at the public relations industry overall, there's been tremendous growth over the last five years. My view is that we will continue to escalate our growth over the next couple of years.
Currently a quarter of our clients are Chinese companies, up from merely 5 percent a decade ago. We may see lower growth rates, but there are always challenges in managing any businessand we think we see a lot of opportunities here, notably in areas like healthcare, consumer, and technology. We continue to evolve our model and we continue to bring in new talents.
We are also seeing a maturing trend in the industry. Clients used to hire PR firms for perhaps something very specific, like a product launch or a new service offering. Now companies look at their partnerships with the agencies much more holistically and in much broader terms. They have big aspirations, such as in trying to consider what their overall narrative is, or in shaping what their key message is to all the stakeholders, etc.
In terms of PR, what are your suggestions for Chinese companies going overseas?
We've seen Chinese companies naturally become much more acquisitive on the global stage, much more aggressive in establishing a major presence. And the great thing we see about Chinese clients is that they are much quicker and adopt a more scientific process in decision-making than they used to. I have two suggestions.
The first is about adaptation: understanding the media environment that is changing all the time and getting immersed in the culture. Storytelling is the dominant model of communications in most Western markets. Chinese companies need to understand the way local audiences consume information and what will attract their attention. Another big trend is to focus on employee engagement.
Companies increasingly recognize that employees are the ambassadors for their company. We are supporting them on how to communicate to their employees first, so that they are able to carry the same message to customers and out into the market.
What is your biggest achievement as CEO?
The biggest achievement is spearheading Weber Shandwick's transformation and continuing drive to become the leading international public relations and communications firm built for the digital age.
I started as a journalist and I always had an interest in communications even before starting my career. If you are an intellectually curious person, you want to learn about issues and the job gives you the opportunity be exposed to different types of industries and companies. But the thing that I enjoyed the most is building a great team and a great culture, and that's where we've had a lot of success.
How has the Belt and Road Initiative affected your business and market opportunities? How has globalization benefited your business?
This ambitious platform will create many opportunities for Chinese companies and for multinationals looking to expand their businesses across Asia and Europe. We are currently assisting a growing number of Chinese organizations to deepen their overseas involvement in sectors that will benefit from this sweeping push, and look forward to providing communications and strategic support to new and existing clients as the program unfolds.
What are your hobbies during leisure time?
One of my favorite activities is kayaking. It is great exercise and mirrors what life is about: sometimes the wind is behind you and you are moving fast, sometimes you are paddling hard and not advancing much but considering the possibilities, and at other times with a light wind you sense you are drifting along and know you must paddle harder.
What is your management philosophy?
Lead by example, with a strong work ethic, a collaborative spirit and a people-centric style. I think it's critical to get perspectives from the team. I do a lot of listening.
CV
Age: 55
Nationality: US
Career:
2012 onwards: Global CEO of Weber Shandwick
200412: Global President of Weber Shandwick
200104: President, North America of Weber Shandwick and Chair, Global Practices
19982001: President, North America of BSMG Worldwide
198398: General manager/other leadership positions at Bozell PR and Bozell Sawyer Miller Group
1982-83: Business writer for the Princeton Packet in Princeton, New Jersey
1981-82: Part-time municipal reporter for the Bucks County Courier Times in Pennsylvania
1980-81: Part-time sportswriter at The Trentonian in Trenton, New Jersey
Education: Bachelor of Arts, College of New Jersey
Family: Married with two children
Samsung Electronics Co Ltd displays its TVs at the CES show in Las Vegas, Nevada. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Samsung Electronics Co Ltd is speeding up its layout into the home appliances sector in Chinaranging from televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, air purifiers and robot vacuum cleanersas it continues its efforts to put behind it the global recall of its flagship Galaxy Note 7 smartphone last year, triggered by reports of explosions involving the product.
"It is the 25th year since Samsung entered the Chinese market," the president of Samsung Electronics China, Bae Kyung-tae, told the Samsung Forum 2017 in Shanghai on Thursday.
"We are accelerating localization in research, factories and design to offer products that cater to the demand of Chinese customers," he said.
Samsung said it always regarded China as one of its most important markets in the world, and invested long-term resources and advanced technologies in the mainland.
The South Korean consumer electronics giant put emphasis at the forum on its QLED (quantum dot light emitting diodes) TV, considered as a next generation display technology after OLED displays given its enhanced picture quality.
Liu Junguang, vice-president of Samsung Electronics 's TV business in China, said sales of its curved-screen TV in China witnessed a growth of 87 percent year-on-year in 2016, while QLED sales increased by 91 percent in 2016 compared with previous year.
Samsung unveiled a new 75-inch QLED TV model at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January. Kim Hyun-suk, president of the visual display business at Samsung Electronics, said at the show this year would mark a major paradigm shift in the visual display industry, ushering in the era of QLED.
In the TV content field, the company is in partnership with Mango TV, the Hunan-based online video streaming platform and iQiyi.com Inc, to provide plenty of video content which includes TV series, films and variety shows.
Marissa Mayer, CEO of Yahoo, participates in a panel discussion at the 2015 Fortune Global Forum in San Francisco , US, Nov 3, 2015. [Photo/Agencies]
SAN FRANCISCOYahoo is punishing CEO Marissa Mayer and parting ways with its top lawyer for the mishandling of two security breaches that exposed the personal information of more than 1 billion users and already have cost the company $350 million.
Mayer won't be paid her annual bonus nor receive a potentially lucrative stock award because a Yahoo investigation concluded her management team reacted too slowly to one breach discovered in 2014.
Yahoo's general counsel, Ronald Bell, resigned without severance pay for his department's lackadaisical response to the security lapses.
Alex Stamos, Yahoo's top security officer at the time of the 2014 breach, left the company in 2015.
Although Yahoo's security team uncovered evidence that a hacker backed by an unnamed foreign government had pried into user accounts in 2014, executives "failed to act sufficiently" on that knowledge, according to the results of an internal investigation disclosed on Wednesday. At that time, Yahoo only notified 26 people that their accounts had been breached.
The report didn't identify the negligent executives, but it chastised the company's legal department for not looking more deeply into the 2014 breach. Because of that, the incident "was not properly investigated and analyzed at the time," the report said.
Bell declined to comment through his spokeswoman, Marcy Simon.
Yahoo didn't disclose the 2014 breach until last September when it began notifying at least 500 million users that their email addresses, birth dates, answers to security questions, and other personal information may have been stolen. Three months later, Yahoo revealed it had uncovered a separate hack in 2013 affecting about 1 billion accounts, including some that were also hit in 2014.
The breaches, the two biggest in internet history, have already exacted a major toll.
Yahoo already lowered the sales price of its email and other digital services to Verizon Communications from $4.83 billion to $4.48 billion to account for the potential backlash from the breaches. That deal was reached last July, two months before Verizon and the rest of the world learned about Yahoo's lax security.
More than 40 lawsuits also have been filed seeking damages for the breaches. If Yahoo's sale to Verizon is completed as expected later this year, a successor company called Altaba Inc will be responsible for paying those legal claims.
Yahoo's handling and disclosure of the breaches is also under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Federal Trade Commission. The Sunnyvale, California, company said it has spent $16 million investigating the breaches and covering the legal expenses so far.
In a blog post on Yahoo's Tumblr service, Mayer said she didn't learn about the scope of the breaches until September and then tried to set things right. "However, I am the CEO of the company and since this incident happened during my tenure, I have agreed to forgo my annual bonus and my annual equity grant," Mayer wrote.
In its report, Yahoo's board said it decided to withhold a cash bonus that otherwise would have been paid to her. Mayer is eligible to receive a bonus of up to $2 million annually. The board said it accepted Mayer's offer to relinquish her annual stock award, which is typically worth millions of dollars.
Mayer said she wants the board to distribute her bonus to Yahoo's entire workforce of 8,500 employees. The board didn't say if it would do so.
Losing her bonus and annual stock award probably won't be too painful for Mayer, who is already rich after working for more than a decade as a top executive at Google and then as Yahoo's CEO for the past four-and-a-half years. She is also in line for a $44 million severance package if she doesn't go to work for Verizon after the sale closes.
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Deputies to the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) from Northeast China's Heilongjiang province arrive at Beijing Railway Station in Beijing, capital of China, March 2, 2017. The fifth annual session of the 12th NPC will open on March 5. [Photo/Xinhua]
BEIJING -- Deputies to the National People's Congress (NPC) are gathering in Beijing for the top legislature's annual session, which will open on Sunday.
NPC delegations from outside Beijing all arrived in the capital on Thursday, and preparations for the session are complete, according to the press center of the fifth session of the 12th NPC.
Deputies from Northeast China's Heilongjiang province were the first to arrive.
NPC deputies are elected by people's congresses of provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities. The armed forces elect their own. Deputies from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan follow separate election rules decided by the NPC.
Lawmaker Tan Zhijuan, a researcher on agriculture from Heilongjiang, has brought two bills, one on agricultural cooperatives and the other on supply-side structural reform in the agricultural sector.
Lawmaker Weng Guoxing from East China's Fujian province, a medical doctor, said this year he would continue to focus his attention on health reform.
Documents for the meeting are translated into seven ethnic minority languages, including Mongolian, Tibetan and Uygur, and several foreign languages, including English, French, Russian and Spanish.
The NPC session will deal principally with the government work report, the central government budget and draft General Provisions of Civil Law.
The government work report will be delivered by Premier Li Keqiang at the opening of the session when growth targets for the year will be unveiled.
The draft General Provisions of Civil Law have gone through three readings since June last year and are expected to be approved.
Both are needed to achieve effective governance of the internet, says official
Adhering to the principle of sovereignty does not go against the free flow of information, a Foreign Ministry official said on Thursday.
The pursuit of such a free flow and ensuring China's public security and interests should both be addressed to achieve effective governance of cyberspace, said Long Zhou, the Foreign Ministry's coordinator for cyber affairs, during a media briefing.
Long elaborated during the briefing on the International Strategy of Cooperation on Cyberspace, which was issued on Wednesday and is China's first international strategy on cyber issues.
Sovereignty is among the key principles put forward in the strategy.
"Countries should respect one another's right to choose their own path of cyber development, model of cyber regulation and internet public policies, and participate in international cyberspace governance on an equal footing," the strategy says.
It also says China fully respects citizens' rights and fundamental freedoms in cyberspace, while emphasizing that cyberspace "is not a place beyond the rule of law".
Long reiterated that the principle of sovereignty applies to cyberspace, and said it helps governments play "irreplaceable roles", such as protecting key infrastructure and fighting cybercrime.
Wang Jianchao, deputy director-general of the Bureau of International Cooperation of the Cyberspace Administration of China, said: "Just like the real world, cyberspace needs not only the advocacy of freedom, but also the assurance of order."
Countries' pattern of internet development should be based on their own circumstances, Wang said.
China hopes to work with all countries in the spirit of "win-win cooperation" - which the strategy set as its "core message" - to achieve lasting peace and shared prosperity of cyberspace, Long said.
He said international cooperation is "the only choice" for countries to deal with challenges and threats on the internet, including cyberterrorism and cybercrime.
Following the completion of an eight-month renovation project, Beijing's most notorious "haunted house" is expected to have new tenants after years of being abandoned.
The property, situated at 81 Chaoyangmen Inner Street, was originally built in 1910 by the French and is owned by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Beijing.
The property consists of two three-story buildings that were once used as a private residence, a school and later, a church hospital, said Fang Yuan, manager of Kongjianjia, the property's rental agency.
However, it was abandoned at some point between 1995 and 1997, and the lack of funding led to the lack of renovation over the years, Fang said.
With the property left abandoned up until last year, rumors circulated over the years that it was haunted. The property was even featured in the 2014 movie The House That Never Dies about paranormal happenings in abandoned mansions. The property had become a tourist attraction, with brave visitors from home and abroad venturing inside on exploration tours.
Meng Qi, the archdiocese's director of infrastructure, said the widely circulated ghost stories about the property are fictional. Zhao Zisong, a nearby resident, agreed: "No one living in the area was bothered by the rumors."
In 2012, Beijing's cultural heritage division initiated a project to renovate the property, which was listed as a historic and cultural site in 2009.
After renovation work from April to November last year, the European-style buildings are now equipped with modern facilities. The hardwood floor, large windows and painted walls leave no trace of the sad state the place was in previously.
The property has been listed on the agent's website as costing 10 million yuan ($1.45 million) a year to rent.
But after local media reported on it being ready for rent on Wednesday, it attracted numerous visitors the next day, including a film crew checking out the location with a view to shooting scenes for a new movie, and two teams who made live broadcasts on the property.
Wang Chenggang, vice-chairman of a Beijing-based company that specializes in urban infrastructure projects, said he went to check the property first thing on Thursday after reading about the renovation online the day before.
"It is rare to find such European-style buildings in Beijing nowadays, although the modern interior makes it seem less mysterious than it sounds. It is well located and spacious, although the price is high," Wang said.
Fang said the agency is not concerned about the property's reputation for being a "haunted house" scaring away potential tenants. "We are already discussing prices with two possible tenants," she added.
Guo Xiaojun contributed to this story.
Wang Guoqing, spokesman for the Fifth Session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, answers reporters' questions at a news conference for the session in Beijing on Thursday. More than 3,000 journalists, including 1,250 from overseas, are covering the annual political meetings this year.
Tensions in region eased since relations with Philippines were repaired last year
The concern about "freedom of navigation" in the South China Sea is "much ado about nothing", a spokesman for the annual session of the top political advisory body said at a news conference in Beijing on Thursday.
"There is an old Chinese saying that 'There's no trouble in the world, except for what the unenlightened agitate'," said Wang Guoqing, spokesman for the Fifth Session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, when asked about how China can ensure navigational freedom in the South China Sea.
"As a major trading nation and the biggest country along the South China Sea, China attaches more importance than any other country to navigational freedom and security in the South China Sea," Wang said.
He said the accusation of "China threatening navigational freedom", which has been raised by some nations, is a "fake proposition", as there have never been problems in that regard since China took back its islands in the South China Sea after World War II.
Stressing that the South China Sea islands are an integral part of China's territory, Wang said that it is "perfectly normal" for China to build facilities, including those necessary for defensive purposes, on its own territory.
The civilian facilities China has built on the South China Sea islands, such as lighthouses, have played a positive role in guaranteeing navigation safety and humanitarian rescue, Wang added.
On Feb 12, the US Navy Times reported that the United States navy was planning to dispatch warships to the South China Sea for "freedom of navigation" operations.
Last month, the USS Carl Vinson Nimitz-class carrier strike group began patrolling the South China Sea.
Luo Yongkun, a researcher at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, said that since relations between Beijing and Manila were repaired last year after the new Philippine administration came to power, tensions in the South China Sea have been eased.
"The waters are at peace now, but Washington sent its carrier here in the name of protecting navigational freedom. It is obvious that we are not the one destabilizing the region."
Xinhua contributed to this story.
Zhao Xihai at a national award ceremony for the country's environmental role models in 2007.Du Yang / Xinhua
Former logger sets goal to improve ecology of area after having a change of heart
After spending almost half his life chopping down trees in Jilin province, Zhao Xihai decided it was time to make a change.
In 1989, the former logger and explosives worker formulated a plan to mitigate some of the damage he had done to the environment over the years - he would plant 100,000 trees before turning 70.
In the first spring following his retirement, Zhao bought 46,000 seedlings and set about planting them on a barren tract of land on Bagua Hill, 3 kilometers away from his home.
He set himself the goal of planting 1,000 seedlings per day, waking at 4 am each morning to walk to the hill, armed only with a shovel and some painkillers for his chronic stomach problems.
Every day for 46 days, come rain or shine, Zhao went to the hill to plant more trees, eating only small bites of snacks for sustenance and drinking from nearby streams.
He succeeded in completing his task in the time allocated, despite passing out from hunger and exhaustion one rainy day and having to be carried home by a neighbor.
Once the first 46,000 seedlings had been planted, Zhao continued with his task - albeit at a slower pace.
He persisted even after having a blood clot on the brain in 2004, which left him walking with a stick, telling his son: "I will not stop planting as long as I can move."
By 2007, Zhao had achieved his goal of planting 100,000 trees, but he did not stop there. Joined by his 36-year-old son Zhao Jingchun, who had recently been laid off, he set himself a new mission - to plant 1 million trees, including a number of rare or unusual species.
Within four years, the pair had managed to cultivate 750,000 seedlings, inspiring Zhao Xihai to present his son with a flag honoring his dedication and symbolizing the passing of responsibility to the younger generation.
In March last year, Zhao Xihai was hospitalized after his blood clot returned. He lost the ability to talk and now requires 24-hour care.
His son has vowed to continue his legacy, however, and is on schedule to plant his 1 millionth tree this year, according to Jilin's Hongshi Bureau of Forestry.
Some have questioned why Zhao Jingchun continues to plant trees when he has no income and a 13-year-old son to support. The entire family is also reliant on Zhao Xihai's pension.
"Planting trees will be beneficial for generations to come, therefore it is worth all the hardships - that's what my father would say," he said.
Guo Xiaojun contributed to this story.
With the hope of sending their children to the world's renowned universities and escaping from the stressful competition of the National Higher Education Entrance Exam, more parents are sending their children to international schools despite the colossal expenses. [File photo]
The once peripheral status of international schools in China has had a growing reputation among wealthy families across the country.
With the hope of sending their children to the world's renowned universities and escaping from the stressful competition of the National Higher Education Entrance Exam, more parents are sending their children to international schools despite the colossal expenses.
But will international schools truly lead the way to the world's prestigious educational institutes? The answer is definitely "no".
Despite a kaleidoscope of reasons for sending children to international schools, parents are beginning to realize that an international education is an irreversible course.
Admission to international schools is an opportunity available to rich families only. According to Zheng Yonghua, whose daughter is at an international school in Shanghai, the cost of the international school she attends is about 20 times the expense of a Chinese education. The tuition -- in addition to boarding, living, extracurricular learning and overseas travelling -- is at least 100,000 yuan (US$14,540) a year.
But money alone cannot have a final say.
As the size of applications to international schools has surged during the past few years, schools have tightened their admissions by denying candidates with no foreign identities or backgrounds. Moreover, parents are asked to be highly involved in community services and school curricula, and the children should also have a basic command of English that enables them to communicate in classes.
"It is ridiculous to have a child apply for international schooling without speaking English," Zheng Yonghua said, explaining that the lessons and programs in the schools are all in English.
Beijing Huijia Private School was among the first privately owned international schools in China. It began to open pedagogic lessons for those who expected to be accredited with foreign diplomas in 1997. From then on, international schools have flourished. There are also international classes in Chinese high schools.
Bao Xiaojuan, who used to teach in international schools, said, "The segregation among students in international schools is severe, as the children only befriend with those who speak the same language. So there are English groups, Chinese groups and French groups."
According to Bao, due to the lower levels of discipline compared to Chinese schools, many students in international schools indulge in hedonism.
A report on those who wish to study aboard while attending high schools, initiated by Fan Aiai from the Graduate School of Education, Peking University revealed that students applying for international study are usually those ranked between 26 and 50 percent with regards to grades. They are from wealthy families with annual incomes above 500,000 yuan ($ 72,730.45).
But once they choose to be international students, they have decided a future in which they can no longer take part in the National Higher Education Entrance Exam and have to study abroad at young ages -- a track they have difficulty changing, the report disclosed.
Group marriages are quite common, but have you ever heard of group divorces?
That's exactly what's happened in a village in East China's Jiangsu province, but it's not because the couples don't want to live together anymore.
When it was announced that a new hi-tech zone was to be built in the area, the villagers discovered that their homes were going to be demolished, and that they would all be eligible for compensations.
According to the rules, each couple would be entitled to a 220 square-meter house as relocation compensation. But it turned out that if that couple got divorced, apart from the house, the other partner would also be given a 70 square-meter home and 131,000 yuan (about $19,036 dollars) in financial compensation too, reports the Nanjing Morning Post.
So, the majority of the village's 160 or so couples filed for divorce just to get a better deal, says the local paper.
From newlyweds to seniors, the couples of the Jiangbei village agreed that as long as they could get more compensation, their "fake divorces " would not be in vain.
One man in his 80s said he and his partner have had a good marriage, but still, they got divorced.
Another villager said he wasn't concerned about whether he could successfully remarry his wife in the future.
"Everybody (in the village) is doing this, we will deal with other things later," he told the Nanjing Morning Post.
It's reported that most of the divorced couples still live together.
However, there may be a problem with their plan.
According to housing demolition and relocation regulations, if a couple's divorce registration was administered by a local office of civil affairs, only those who have been divorced for over five years would be eligible to get the extra house and cash payout.
The villagers have been told by a law firm that if spouses obtained a divorce through court proceedings, they could get the extra compensation regardless of how long they have been divorced.
The law firm is reportedly charging up to 15,000 yuan (about $2,180 dollars) to help couples in the village get a divorce in this way.
The Demolition and Relocation Office said the relevant government departments have been told about the situation, and the possible loophole, but are unsure if it will make any difference to the compensation arrangements when the demolition eventually happens.
A lawyer said the "fake divorces" could have potential legal consequences.
"It is not wise to utilize these loopholes for one's own benefit, it's very dangerous," the lawyer said.
Similar cases of divorce 'fabrication' to get more compensation have been seen in other places in Nanjing, such as Jiangxinzhou, Jiangning and Pukou districts.
BEIJING -- The State Council on Friday announced the appointment and removal of several leading officials.
Ding Xuedong was appointed State Council deputy secretary-general in place of Xiao Jie.
Wang Shuangquan was named vice justice minister, and Tang Jun has replaced Liu Yuting as deputy head of China's State Administration for Industry and Commerce.
Guo Shuqing was appointed chairman of China Banking Regulatory Commission. Shang Fulin no longer holds the post.
Chen Gang was nominated deputy director of the Office of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project Construction Committee under the State Council.
Wang Kun was named deputy head of China Geological Survey, and Luo Liming was removed from the post of deputy director of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission.
Seven telecom fraud suspects have been prosecuted for causing the death of a university candidate in August last year, the Supreme People's Procuratorate announced on Thursday.
Xu Yuyu, 18, a resident of Shandong province, died of cardiac arrest after losing 9,900 yuan ($1,440) of her tuition money to the telecom scammers.
The suspects were found to have swindled student financial aid from students in impoverished families throughout the country, according to the prosecutors in Shandong province.
Xu, a resident of Linyi, Shandong province, was admitted to Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications last year.
On Aug 19, she received a phone call from an unknown person notifying her that she would receive 2,600 yuan in student aid. She had received a phone call from an education authority the day before, so her family did not question the authenticity of the call.
After the call, Xu wired a 9,900-yuan "activation fee" into the scammer's bank account as instructed, hoping the student aid money would be deposited into her student account, but it turned out to be a scam.
The family immediately reported the fraudulent activity to local police, and Xu was said to be devastated. On their way home from police station, she collapsed and was taken to hospital. After medical rescue, she died two days later.
China plans to conduct at least one asteroid exploration mission before 2025, a senior space scientist said on Friday.
Ye Peijian, a leading scientist on deep-space exploration at the China Academy of Space Technology and a national political adviser, told China Daily that the asteroid mission will be carried out after the country's first Mars expedition in 2020 and before 2025.
"The detailed schedule and the target asteroid have yet to be determined, but we are working on them. We want to explore asteroids because their resources will be important to mankind's development in the future," he said.
The country has also decided to send a probe to Mars to take samples and return to Earth around 2030, Ye said.
Additionally, Chinese scientists are conducting preliminary research on a Jupiter mission, he said.
In a white paper on China's space activities published in December, the China National Space Administration said that from 2017 to 2021, it would begin a feasibility study and research on key technology for explorations of Jupiter and asteroids. These deep-space expeditions will be used to help explore the origin and evolution of the solar system as well as the possibility of extraterrestrial life, the administration said.
Ji Jianghui, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Purple Mountain Observatory in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, told Xinhua News Agency on Wednesday that Chinese scientists' long-term plans are to fly a probe past an asteroid; to fly side by side with an asteroid for a period; and to land on a third one to conduct sampling analysis on the surface.
By now, only the United States, the European Space Agency and Japan have carried out asteroid exploration missions.
The world's first dedicated asteroid probe was the US Near Earth Asteroid Rendezvous, which was launched in February 1996 and landed on the near-Earth asteroid Eros in February 2001.
In 2006, Japan's Hayabusa became the first spacecraft to land on and return from an asteroid. It brought back a sample of material from the near-Earth asteroid 25143 Itokawa in June that year.
Pang Zhihao, a researcher of human space activity at the China Academy of Space Technology, said expeditions to asteroids will aid scientists' study of the solar system and asteroid resources and help to find methods of preventing asteroids from colliding with Earth.
Yang Yuguang, a member of the International Astronautical Federation's Space Transportation Committee, said an asteroid mission requires precision when the probe flies toward the asteroid.
Contact the writer at @chinadaily.com.cn
CPPCC spokesman upbeat on growth as gathering opens
Wang Guoqing, spokesman for the annual session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, greets the media at a news briefing in Beijing on Wednesday. Zou Hong / China Daily
Nation contributed a third of world economy
China will continue to be the engine of global growth as its economic fundamentals remain strong and resilient, a senior official said on Thursday, dismissing the pessimism regarding the country's economic prospects.
Wang Guoqing, spokesman for the annual session of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, said China has made a good start in its 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20) and the country contributed about a third of world growth in 2016, more than any other country's contribution.
"China's steady growth has brought in greater demand, investment and products to the world economy and created many opportunities for cooperation," Wang said at a news conference.
China's growth target, as well as its policy and reform priorities, will be closely watched as the annual meetings of the country's top legislature and political advisory body open this week.
The country will also help improve global prosperity and regional infrastructure as it pushes the Belt and Road Initiative, Wang said.
The value of investment in 53 countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative reached $14.5 billion last year, he said.
The annual meeting of the National Committee of the CPPCC, the country's top political advisory body, will open on Friday.
The National People's Congress, the top legislature, will convene on Sunday, with lawmakers reviewing and elaborating on Premier Li Keqiang's Government Work Report.
The consensus among economists is that China will keep its growth target unchanged at about 6.5 to 7 percent this year. The government will likely adopt a more expansionary fiscal policy by raising its budget deficits, while keeping its monetary policy neutral or even tighter to curb financial risks, they said.
Other reform priorities will include deepening supply-side reform, cutting excessive industrial capacity and reducing the burden for the corporate sector.
Ding Shuang, head of Greater China economic research at Standard Chartered Bank, said policymakers will emphasize economic and financial stability during the meetings and may raise the budget deficit to 3.5 percent of GDP, from last year's 3 percent, to maintain growth.
"In light of the impact of a cooling property market on investment and consumption, we think a more expansionary fiscal policy and higher budget deficit are needed to prevent growth from falling significantly below 6.5 percent," Ding said.
Xu Hongcai, an economist at the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, said China will likely achieve 6.8 percent GDP growth in the first quarter, as the economy has made a mild recovery since last quarter.
"With improved foreign trade, domestic investment and manufacturing activity picking up, I expect the growth momentum to continue at 6.8 percent in the first quarter," Xu said.
"While the correction in the property market and decline in auto sales will weigh on economic growth, the rise of the new economic drivers, such as tourism, high technology and the innovative industry will offset the negative impact," he said.
Two sessions to highlight Xi's thoughts
Leader's speeches point way to 'great dream of revitalizing nation'
Having made headlines at the Davos World Economic Forum with his vigorous defense of globalization, President Xi Jinping is expected to take the spotlight in another gathering with global influence: the two sessions in Beijing. The fifth session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and the fifth session of the 12th National People's Congress, will open on Friday and Sunday, respectively.
The annual sessions of the top legislature and top political advisory body are among the most important political events for the world's second-largest economy.
The NPC is the highest body of state power, enabling the Chinese people to exercise their power as "the master of state." New state leaders will be elected at the NPC session in March 2018 after the 19th Communist Party of China National Congress elects new Party leadership later this year.
It was at the first session of the 12th NPC in March 2013 that Xi was elected president. He had been elected general secretary of the CPC Central Committee in November of the previous year at the 18th CPC National Congress.
This year's two sessions are the first since Xi was endorsed as the core of the CPC Central Committee in October.
"Through the meetings, greater consensus will be gathered to build a moderately prosperous society and Xi's thoughts on state governance will be more clear-cut," said Xin Ming, a professor at the Party School of the CPC Central Committee.
Over the past four years, Xi's thoughts on governance have guided China's development. The book Xi Jinping: The Governance of China, a collection of his speeches, provides insight into his concepts, resolve and wisdom of governance.
Officials at all levels should align their thinking with Xi's strategic blueprint, the Four Comprehensives, which is a four-pronged strategy to achieve a moderately prosperous society, deepen reform, advance the rule of law and govern the Party strictly.
For China, the strategy creates routes to build a socialist modern country.
For observers, Xi's speeches and policy initiatives at the two sessions will send important signals about how China will march toward what Xi called the "great dream of revitalizing the Chinese nation."
Xi's thoughts on governance, ranging from economic and social reform to foreign affairs and military transformation, have been greatly influencing the country's course.
In the economic sphere, Xi has led the country to achieve remarkable growth. The country remains the top engine of global growth, with the International Monetary Fund predicting China's contribution would account for 39 percent of the world's economic expansion in 2016.
Xi has called the current phase of growth the "new normal," as China shifts to a more sustainable development and distributes the benefits more evenly.
To ensure this crucial rebalancing is successful, Xi advocates "a new political economy," which draws on and develops Marxist thought.
Supply-side structural reform is key to understanding the new political economy and China's future development. Fundamentally different from the "supply-side economics" in the West, which focus on tax cuts, China's supply-side structural reform involves a set of measures including dissolving overcapacity and developing the real economy.
Xi has led the country as it rolls out reforms across all sectors that advance state governance, such as consultative democracy and rule of law.
The reform-minded president also heads leading groups and commissions covering key areas including finance and economic affairs, national security, internet security and informatization, as well as military and civilian integration. The mechanism is believed to help strengthen centralized and unified leadership of the Party in State governance.
Xi stresses placing power into an institutional cage. The decision to establish the national supervision commission to place the use of power under close supervision exemplifies this model.
To build a clean and advanced ruling party, Xi has carried out a sweeping campaign against corruption, which he warned could lead to the collapse of the Party and the downfall of the State. Since Xi took the helm of the Party, the anti-corruption fight has gained "crushing momentum" and earned popular support by netting at least 240 centrally administered officials and more than 1 million low level officials for violating CPC and government rules.
Safeguarding Xi's core status is "a political issue of the utmost importance," said senior local officials at the recently concluded sessions of legislative and political advisory bodies in China's 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.
Xi and his comrades must take steps to ensure China escapes the "middle-income trap"which few developing countries have managed to avoidand continues to open up to fuel global growth.
In his New Year speech, Xi called on the nation to "roll up our sleeves and work harder."
Before the two sessions, Xi visited Hebei province and said that poverty alleviation was fundamental to building a moderately prosperous society.
During the 2013-16 period, 55 million people have shaken off povertymore than the population of South Korea. China plans to eliminate poverty by 2020.
During an inspection of Beijing, Xi stressed building a people-oriented city by addressing problems of overpopulation, traffic congestion, soaring house prices and air pollution.
He also highlighted the coordinated development of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei, an ambitious project to link more than 100 million people to become an important engine for the country's economic growth. Huge progress has been made in transportation, industry and the environment in the past three years.
At a workshop in February that was attended by officials at the provincial and ministerial levels, Xi urged them to "choose the heaviest burden and crack the hardest nuts" when pursuing economic and social development.
'Shared future'
Xi is also striving to establish a global landscape featuring win-win results, common development and equality, highlighting the country's image as a responsible and active player in global governance.
He attended the annual World Economic Forum meeting in January, inspiring the world by advocating free trade and warning against protectionism.
Xi told the forum that China is not only the beneficiary of economic globalization, but also a contributor to it. To this end, he has repeatedly called for building "a community of shared future for mankind."
In early February, Xi and his US counterpart Donald Trump held a phone conversation on bilateral ties, a good first step in consolidating relations between the world's two largest economies.
"They are the two leading nations and it is crucial that there are open communications so there are no misunderstandings," said Darrell West, director of governance studies at the Brookings Institution.
The two sessions are expected to drum up support for the country's next round of reforms. Thousands of deputies and political advisers will speak on various issues including economic globalization, national defense and diplomacy.
The whole Party and nation will closely unite around the CPC Central Committee with Xi as the core. "It is a necessity," said Zhang Zhao'an, deputy director of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences. "While we are handling a complex situation at home and abroad, we cannot afford to lose direction."
It is unique that an 88-million-strong political party gathers around its leadership and then unites and leads over 1.3 billion people toward a common destination that delivers benefits not only to themselves but also to people around the world.
"Behind all the above is the Chinese philosophy of governance, including two concepts: minyi, or public opinion, and minxin, the hearts and minds of the people," said Wen Yang, a researcher at the Institute of China Studies at Fudan University.
"New ideas, thoughts and strategies of state governance under the leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Xi as the core have a solid foundation of public opinion. Proven successful by experience, they have won the people's support," he said.
"They will become an important theme of the 'two sessions' and the CPC's 19th National Congress."
From overseas media: What to watch during China's two sessions
Belt and Road Initiative
The meetings this year are expected to announce a framework to support exports related to infrastructure projects for the One Belt, One Road initiative rolled out by Chinese president Xi Jinping.
--South China Morning Post
Poverty relief
With the deadline of 2020 for achieving a "moderately prosperous" society looming, poverty alleviation is also of great importance, and President Xi Jinping last month emphasised the need to ensure that the rural poor shook off poverty as planned. He called for greater policy support for poverty relief, including fiscal, land, financial, education and health policies.
--The Straits Times
People's livelihood
Economic targets and reforms in a slowing economy will be a focus of China's annual parliamentary and consultative sessions, but for the Chinese people, bread-and-butter issues such as property prices will be of greater concern.
--The Straits Times
13th Five-Year Plan
The other keyword to be followed during the two sessions, according to the report, would be the implementation of the 13th Five-Year Plan, set in motion last year with a series of reforms to address the slowdown of the world's second-largest economy.
--Press Trust of India
Economic growth
Premier Li Keqiang will disclose this year's GDP growth forecast when he delivers his government work report during the Two Sessions. State officials will debate economic policies including the Chinese currency and the real estate market, and will take questions from the media. Provincial leaders may also reveal how their provinces are doing on the economic front.
--South China Morning Post
Supply-side structural reform
Once the principle of not sticking to blind growth is fixed, China will obviously examine supply-side structural reform. It will likely to announce intense restructuring measures in sectors like steel and coal. China could also declare its willingness to reform the state-owned enterprises once again.
--The Huffington Post
Two sessions: What to expect in the 'minister passage'
Chinese Commerce Minister Zhong Shan receives an interview before the opening of the fifth session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]
The famous "minister passage" at the two sessions -- the annual meetings of the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee -- opened to the media this afternoon.
This year, reporters can not only ask ministers and ministerial attendees questions face-to-face along the corridor, they can also shoot their queries in a digital way -- through WeChat, according to cnr.cn.
The "minister passage", also known as "the ministers' red carpet", is the 100-meter passage near the northern gate of the Great Hall of the People where ministers and some other high-ranking officials must walk through before entering the meeting hall.
Session staff have launched a WeChat public account for the minister passage this year. Journalists who scan the QR code can send their questions to be asked of those who pass through the corridor. Journalists can also send their queries by text messages on phone.
For the reporters who cover the two sessions, the minister passage is like a mineral reserve of important information. Ministers and some other session attendees become the targets of constant bursts of camera flashes and face a barrage of questions.
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has asked ministers of the State Council and heads of organizations directly under the State Council to address public concerns immediately.
The minister passage opened its door nine times last year, and saw high-ranking officials pass through, answering more than 70 questions from journalists at home and abroad, during the two sessions last year.
New ministers and officials: Who's who
There will be 14 officials at ministerial level who haven't walked through the corridor before. Let's look at who they are.
LONDON - The unelected House of Lords voted on Wednesday to amend and thereby delayed a bill empowering Prime Minister Theresa May to begin Brexit negotiations, demanding guarantees for EU nationals living in the United Kingdom.
In a major defeat for the government, peers voted by 358 to 256 for an amendment requiring ministers to protect the rights of more than 3 million European citizens after London leaves the bloc.
The change means the bill must return to the lower House of Commons for deliberation, delaying final approval just weeks ahead of May's deadline for starting Brexit negotiations by the end of this month.
Before the vote, May said her timetable for triggering Article 50 of the European Union's Lisbon treaty, which starts a two-year negotiating period, would not change.
A Brexit Ministry spokesman said it was "disappointed" at the Lords vote, which came after lawmakers overwhelmingly approved the bill last month. Lawmakers in the lower house defeated all amendments to the bill, including one on the rights of EU nationals.
Opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn welcomed Wednesday's vote as "great news", suggesting he may support the amendment when it returns to the Lower House.
A spokeswoman for May's office said the government would seek to reverse the change when it moves back to the Commons, where May's Conservatives have a majority.
If they succeed, the original bill would go back to the Lords in what is known as parliamentary Ping-Pong.
The delay may only end up being a few days, but the defeat signals the domestic opposition that May could face during the next two years of complex EU negotiations.
Intense worry
The June referendum vote was fueled by concerns about mass EU migration into Britain, and immigration promises to be a critical issue once negotiations begin.
May has said she will prioritize ending free movement of workers from the other 27 EU countries, even at the cost of trade ties with the bloc.
But the fate of those who are already in Britain remains uncertain, causing intense worry for people affected.
The prime minister has said she wants them to stay, but said she must also secure the rights of 1.2 million UK citizens living in the EU.
(China Daily 03/03/2017 page12)
GENEVA - A senior Chinese diplomat on Wednesday said that in order to promote and protect human rights, all countries should join hands to build a community of a shared future for human beings, to work together for the realization of peace, development and win-win cooperation for all.
Ma Zhaoxu, head of the Chinese mission to the United Nations in Geneva, delivered a joint statement on behalf of a cross-regional group of 140 countries during a high-level meeting of the 34th session of the UN Human Rights Council on Wednesday.
"Countries should foster partnership characterized by mutual respect, promote and protect human rights through dialogue and cooperation," he said.
Ma Zhaoxu, head of the Chinese mission to the United Nations in Geneva
He said that each state is entitled to independently choose its path for development and social system, and the efforts and achievements of each state in promoting and protecting human rights should be respected.
The diplomat added that politicization of the human rights agenda should be avoided, and countries should be committed to multilateralism, not unilateralism, in addressing global challenges.
"All countries should work together like passengers in the same boat," he said.
He said all countries should enhance human rights capacity building through concrete and effective cooperation, and all aspects of human rights shall be treated on an equal basis.
"There is no such thing as a superior or inferior civilization. Different civilizations should respect each other, draw on each other to achieve common progress," Ma said, adding that diversity of civilizations should not be a source of global conflict. Rather, it should be an engine driving the advance of human civilizations, he said.
A solid foundation
He also highlighted the importance of sustained development in the human rights fields, saying that all countries should effectively implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which provides a solid foundation for the promotion and protection of all human rights.
Jorge Valero, permanent representative of Venezuela to the UN in Geneva, said that on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, Venezuela is pleased by this important initiative by China. "The NAM fully agrees that the international community must carry out efforts to build a shared future for humanity, namely a common, open and inclusive world of lasting peace, security and prosperity," he said.
Muhammad Aamar Aftab Qureshi, deputy permanent representative of Pakistan in Geneva, described Ma's remarks as "timely and brilliant", adding the most impressive point in the statement is the idea of building a community of shared future for human beings.
"We need to live with each other peacefully, we need to respect each other's diversity. We need to pursue our own objectives and our own goals according to our own social values and our own situations. This is of vital importance in order to achieve global peace in today's world," he said.
"Giving the challenges the world is facing and the efforts we need to take together, we should be grateful for China to bring up this great idea," he said.
(China Daily 03/03/2017 page12)
Malaysia to deport DPRK suspect in airport killing
By Xinhua | China Daily | Updated: 2017-03-03 07:36
KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia said on Thursday that a man from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, who was arrested as a suspect following the killing of another DPRK citizen at Kuala Lumpur's airport, will be released and deported.
Ri Jong Chol, the 47-year-old man who worked at a local anti-cancer drug company, was arrested on Feb 17 for his suspected involvement in the case, in which a DPRK man with the passport name of Kim Chol was poisoned with the lethal nerve agent VX.
The incident happened on Feb 13. Ri was remanded for two weeks in police custody. The remand will expire on Friday.
Malaysia's Attorney General Mohamed Apandi Ali did not elaborate on the reasons of the release, but local media said it was due to a lack of evidence. During the investigation, the police did not reveal the connections between him and four other suspects believed to have fled the country.
On Wednesday, two female suspects who allegedly carried out the attack, one Indonesian and one Vietnamese, were charged with murder. If convicted, they will face death sentence.
Meanwhile, Malaysia will revoke visa-free entry for citizens from the DPRK starting Monday, Malaysia's Bernama news agency reported on Thursday, citing Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Zahid said the decision was made after taking into account national security as a priority, according to the Bernama report.
Malaysia grants visa-free treatment for DPRK citizens and is the only one that enjoys visa-free entry when its citizens enter DPRK.
A diplomatic row emerged between the two countries as the DPRK accused the Malaysian side of "colluding with hostile forces" and delaying the release of the victim's body. The DPRK government also sent a high-level delegation to Malaysia to discuss about the matter.
Malaysia insisted its objectivity and professionalism in the investigation.
(China Daily 03/03/2017 page12)
Fiction Reading is a collection of magazine columns by writer Bi Feiyu on his understanding of fiction classics, both Chinese and foreign. [Photo provided to China Daily]
When writer Bi Feiyu landed in Beijing recently for four book events and to do a show on China Central Television's hit program Readers, his presence created a stir among his fans, not unlike the one in London five years ago when he was there for an international book fair.
The winner of the 2010 Man Asian Literary Prize has a new book, Fiction Reading, a collection of magazine columns on his understanding of fiction classics, both Chinese and foreign.
The columns, which were first published in the Zhong Shan magazine, are based mainly on Bi's literature lectures at Nanjing University since 2013, where he is a professor.
His reviews of world-class writers, using a colloquial and humorous touch, are wildly popular online.
"I love to chat about novels. And, I used to have a 'bad' reputation for that because I would keep my chat partners for too long," says Bi.
But to him, fictional creations are like artifacts that he can examine carefully at any time and play with.
He played a game with his audience at Tsinghua University on Sunday, inviting them to turn the Tang Dynasty (618-907) poet Li Shangyin's four-line poem about evening rainfall into a novel.
"Under Li's 28 Chinese characters in the poem, there lies a One Hundred Years of Solitude-like story that spans the passage of time," he says.
At his previous lectures, he played other games with his audiences, like changing all the major characters' names in the French short story writer Guy de Maupassant's The Necklace into Chinese ones.
Bi calls Ernest Hemingway a tough guy, which means he chooses stronger characters' point of views to tell stories, as in The Killers.
"Hemingway writes in a way that is enabled by his own character, and even by his strong body. If you ask Franz Kafka to write in Hemingway's style, he would pass out and what we would be left to do is to pinch Kafka's philtrum (a method of traditional Chinese medicine) to help him come around," says Bi.
Bi says that language is the key when it comes to the quality of novels, and that Leo Tolstoy is a master of party scenes.
Also, Bi prefers to speak more about the logic, instincts, character and intelligence of the writers who produced classic works, when analyzing their writings, saying: "It's far better than analyzing novels using social backgrounds, paragraph summaries and the key point", which is a common practice in schools.
Defending his style, he says: "You can not read a novel with a telescope."
Actor Wu Jing'an will work with Tianjin People's Art Theater to present The Country's Grain Fields in April. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Chinese actor Wu Jing'an has portrayed honest and strong characters on screen and onstage in the past three decades.
So, it isn't surprising therefore that in his latest play, The Country's Grain Fields, Wu plays an upright official of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).
The play, produced by Tianjin People's Art Theater, will be staged in Tianjin on March 31 and over April 1-2, and in Beijing over June 9 to 11.
Wu's role in the play, Liu Tongxun, leads an anti-graft campaign to protect the rights of farmers. But he is set up by other officials, his rank is lowered and his life is threatened.
"Although the story takes place during the reign of Emperor Qianlong (1711-99), it is significant in the current social and political environment in China," the 59-year-old actor says in a Tianjin interview.
"The challenging part of this performance is the long lines that I need to deliver and the use of words that are both precise and sharp."
He expects the audience to stay connected to the story as fighting corruption is an ongoing priority of the central government.
Born in Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi province, Wu graduated from the People's Liberation Army Academy of Art. In 1996, he won the Plum Performance Award, the highest honor for Chinese theater artists, for his performance in the military-themed play, Xiang Jiang, Xiang Jiang (Xiangjiang River).
In 2014, he worked with Tianjin People's Art Theater for the first time in a drama titled Hong Qi Pu (The Red Flag), which premiered in Tianjin in March that year.
The play is based on the late Chinese writer Liang Bin's novel of the same name, which is about a peasants revolution in the late Qing Dynasty. It was widely appreciated.
In July 2014, while touring with the play in different parts of the country, Wu met with a bad car accident. After a long period of recovery, he returned to the stage in 2015.
"Since then I have become close to the members of Tianjin People's Art Theater," says Wu, adding that he wants to continue working on productions with them.
Explaining how the Tianjin People's Art Theater got involved with The Country's Grain Fields, Zhong Hai, president of theater, says Wu told him that its storyline would be great for stage.
The novel, on which The Country's Grain Fields is based, has also been adapted into a TV drama that will be broadcast by China Central Television this summer. The TV script has been written by Gao Feng.
"Wu sent me a few lines from the script and I was very excited. Although a play, in around 130 minutes, cannot summarize a script originally written for TV, we have tailored it to include some important elements," says Zhong, adding that the play will show innocent farmers being deprived of their land and corrupt officials using their influence for financial and personal gains.
Zhong has directed The Red Flag and will be doing the same for The Country's Grain Fields.
In the play, parched farmland will be used as the main stage setting, and should serve as a warning to corrupt officials in real life, he says.
Chinese has been added to the graduation exam list by an Italian high school and 29 students will take the test this year, the Guangming Daily reports quoting Italian local media.
Sophie Scholl, a high school specializing in linguistics, in Trento, northeastern Italy, has become the first school in the country to list Chinese as a graduation exam subject.
The Chinese course has been running at the Italian school for five years, and 145 of its 910 students have chosen to study the language.
Maria Silva Boccardi, director of the school, said Chinese will become a global language in the future and they set up the course because many students had asked for it.
"There were only a few schools (in Italy) who provided trial Chinese courses back then, but now, Chinese courses have become a crucial part of our overall teaching plan and we are welcoming our pioneer batch of graduates this year," she said.
Roberto, a Sophie Scholl student who is going to take the Chinese test before graduation, said writing Chinese characters is the most difficult aspect of learning the language.
"Although leaning Chinese is difficult for Italian students, when considering looking for better job opportunities overseas, China would definitely be my top choice," he said.
Maria Assunta Contino, a Chinese teacher at Sophie Scholl, said apart from the Chinese language, the school also provides Chinese history courses, and questions about Chinese history and cultures will also show up on the graduation exam.
Some students from Sophie Scholl are also heading to Shenyang, in Northeast China's Liaoning province, for an educational exchange with local Chinese students during the summer holiday this year.
Statistics show that there are now about 150 schools providing Chinese courses in Italy, according to Guangming Daily.
A polished bronze mirror unearthed from Haihunhou tomb was previously found bearing the earliest known image of Confucius. [Photo provided to China Daily]
An image of the Taoism god Dongwanggong (King of the East) has been found on a mirror unearthed from Emperor Liu He's tomb in Jiangxi.
The Jiangxi Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology said experts have confirmed this is the earliest physical representation of the ancient legend "King of the East meets with Queen of the West (Xiwangmu)", providing new clues for the study of Han Dynasty (206 BC-220) immortal culture.
Head of the archaeological team Yang Jun, said that the dressing mirror is composed of three parts; the body, the back and a cover. The back of the large mirror is wooden, almost a meter tall.
The images of the King of the East and Queen of the West are on the back of the mirror which is also decorated with phoenix patterns.
Yang said that the two gods were the most honored gods in the heavenly palace in Chinese folklore, symbolizing the ancient people's belief in the "dualism of yin and yang".
Since archaeologists began to excavate the tomb in 2011, more than 10,000 pieces of precious relics have been unearthed.
The Haihunhou tomb, the best-preserved cemetery from the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24), belonged to Emperor Liu He.
The burial chamber, near Nanchang, the Jiangxi provincial capital, covers about 40,000 square meters and is one of the few imperial tombs that has not been looted. It contains eight small tombs and a burial site for chariot horses.
Discover the best things to do in Beijing with our weekly roundup of art and exhibitions, music and performances, and trending activities around town. For recommendations, please contact li-ping@chinadaily.com.cn.
Roman silver pepper pot from Hoxne, England. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Art:
Must-see items at Beijing's British Museum show
The British Museum's highly-acclaimed A History of the World in 100 Objects has already attracted more than one million visitors during its world tour. This week, the exhibition began its China leg of the tour in Beijing.
Each 15-minute program introduced one of 100 objects from the London museum's collections that revealed the communication methods of various human cultures over the course of two million years.
Learn more about its 10 must-sees here.
Time: Through Mar 31
Venue: National Museum of China, 16 East Chang'an Avenue, Dongcheng district.
Ticket: 50 yuan
Contact: 010-6511-6400
Betsy Beer is named for Cathay Pacific's first aircraft, a Douglas D-3 that traversed Asia in the 1940s and '50s. [Photo provided to China Daily]
If you've ever noticed that your favorite beer tastes a bit off when you're on an airplane, it's probably not because of improper storage or an old sell-by date.
It's your mouthand maybe how cabin pressure affects carbonation.
Cabin pressure and altitude both affect passengers' taste buds in flight, but Cathay Pacific and Hong Kong Beer Co have teamed up to craft a solution. The airline is touting Betsy Beer as "the world's first hand-crafted bottled beer brewed to be enjoyed at 35,000 feet".
The brewer used both Hong Kong and UK-sourced ingredients for the new beer, which is being first served to first- and business-class passengers on flights between Hong Kong and destinations in BritainHeathrow, Gatwick and Manchesterfrom now until April 30.
"We know that when you fly, your sense of taste changes," says Julian Lyden, marketing manager for Cathay Pacific. "Airlines address this for food in certain ways. But nobody has ever tried to improve the taste of beer at altitude."
To find the perfect balance for a beer served both in the air and on the ground, the airline and the brewer pulled together an expert tasting panelincluding leaders of the Hong Kong Craft Beer Association; May Chow, recently voted Asia's best female chef for 2017; Willem van Emden, Swire Restaurants' general manager. Cathay Pacific's management, cabin crews and Marco Polo Club members also got a chance to sip in judgment.
Aroma is a critical factor with a change in altitude, and Betsy's stable aroma is partly driven by the inclusion of longan, or dragon-eye fruit, which enhances the brew's round, rich textural quality. The brewer also used a little New Territories-sourced honey to give the beer agreeable floral notes, and the Fuggle hop that gives many traditional British craft ales a pleasantly earthy flavor.
Betsy Beer also will be available on the ground at the airline's lounges in Hong Kong and Heathrow as well as a select number of Swire-owned restaurants in Hong Kong, including Mr & Mrs Fox, Cafe Gray Deluxe, Plat du Jour, Public, Sugar and The Continental for a limited time. Online shoppers in Hong Kong can grab bottles at Deli Delight (deli-delight.com), the exclusive retailer for Betsy Beer during March and April.
The beer is named after "Betsy", Cathay Pacific's first aircraft, a Douglas DC-3, which flew passengers around the region in the 1940s and 1950s.
Ningxia weather woes
China's premium wine region Ningxia will likely see a drop of 5 percent in wine production compared with last year due to heavy rainfall in September, wine expert Li Demei tells the trade publication dbHK. The fall rains caused a series of diseases including mildew, "the main reason for the production decline," Li explained, adding that a "5 percent decline is still within normal range".
Stimulated by local offerings such as Silver Heights and Helan Qing Xue that won international wine awards, the Ningxia government hopes to expand vineyard acreage in the region to 700,000 mu (about 46,667 hectares) by 2020, which will bring its annual wine production to 200 million bottles. Ningxia's current acreage is 40,666 hectares.
Li, however, remained cautious and called the official target a "suggestion". He told dbHK that while Ningxia has made inroads in global wine market in recent years, planting should be based on market demand and production capacity.
[Photo provided to China Daily]
Beijing's brand-new art and fashion venue Tru-M plans a series of dining events that pair food events with its exhibitions.
For the opening showcase, founding partner Michael Goo invited the culinary team at Beijing's TRB restaurant to collaborate for an ongoing five-night dinner series that ends March 5. The restaurant's executive chef Franck Pelux studied works in the gallery's exhibition Virtue by Korean artist Tae-gyeong Yoon, and created a five-course wine-paired menu for the When Art Meets Food & Food Meets Art event. Yoon's thread and paint multimedia work The Meaning of Deep Red, for example, was re-envisioned on a starter plate of Cherry Foie Gras by Pelux. Yoon's works of intertwining lines and dots represent humans' emotional and psychological roadmaps.
After viewing the art in the ground-floor gallery in the Sanlitun area, guests are escorted up a darkened stairway to a second-floor maze of white cotton ropes created by founding partner Tru Wang that echoes Yoon's art and leads to the moodily lit dining area.
If you go
888 yuan net ($129) through March 5 at Tru-M, Sanlitun Taikooli North N-2/16-26; RSVP with TRB at 010-8400-2232.
Related:
HK airline offers beer ready to be a high flier
Chef teaches Chinese about New Zealand, one scoop at a time
File photo of Ying Yong, mayor of Shanghai. [Photo/VCG]
Shanghai will strengthen its support and improve its services for foreign enterprises, said Ying Yong, mayor of Shanghai, at a meeting with more than 10 leaders of foreign-funded companies on Feb 27.
The meeting is part of the mayor's Pudong visit to investigate the current development of local foreign enterprises and to listen to their thoughts and advice on Shanghai's opening up.
The attendees shared the latest developments in their companies and advised on subjects such as upgrading the investment environment, and talent attraction.
Ying mentioned the important role that foreign enterprises have played in the city's development and economic growth over the past three decades.
Foreign enterprises have become a growth engine for Shanghai's economy and the major force to boost the city's scientific innovation, said Ying.
The mayor pointed out that the city intends to further its opening up policy and to create a more convenient investment and trade environment. Thus, he hoped that more foreign companies would grasp the opportunities to participate in the development of Shanghai.
The city will also work on creating a legal, international and convenient environment to do business, said Ying.
Foreign-funded R&D centers are allowed to join in the construction of turning Shanghai into a scientific and technological center. Simplified administrative approval systems have been launched to lower company costs. Talent attraction policies keep improving to lure more top minds to work in Shanghai. Related regulations will be carried out to better protect the legitimate rights and interests of foreign enterprises and investors in Shanghai.
In addition to the meeting, Ying also visited the Asia-Pacific headquarters of US-based Honeywell International and Swiss-based drug maker Roche, to gain a better understanding of local foreign-funded enterprises.
Wang Ming, member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference from Tsinghua University. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
All members of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, the country's top political advisory body, expect their proposals to play a role in policymaking. Over the past two decades, proposals from members of the National Committee of the CPPCC have tripled. Back in 1993, when the first session of the 8th CPPCC National Committee was held, the members submitted about 2,000 proposals; the figure increased to 5,000 in 2008 and has remained steady at around 6,000 since 2013.
This may prompt the public to ask the question: How many of these proposals evoke a response from the central government? And what kind of proposals are taken into consideration while making policies?
Most proposals from CPPCC National Committee members get responses from related executive government agencies, and some eventually lead to legislation.
Take my own experience for example. About 10 percent of my proposals in the past 15 years have been considered while formulating policies, some of which have already come into force. My proposal to allow all couples to have two children, which many other CPPCC National Committee members also voiced, eventually became a national policy.
Apart from being included in policymaking, such proposals can also affect public opinions and thus help reach a social consensus on a specific issue with the support of the media. This is a very important role proposals submitted to the CPPCC National Committee play, yet we don't pay enough attention to it.
One point needs to be made clear here: in most cases, it's not an individual's proposal that leads to a policy. Only when a proposal represents the needs of the majority of the people and promotes public interest will the CPPCC National Committee thoroughly discuss it. And only if the policymakers reach a consensus that the proposal enjoys enough support among the public can it be transformed into a policy. The agencies and departments of the State Council, China's Cabinet, for instance, realized the two-child-per-couple proposal enjoyed social consensus and only then gave a green light to the policy.
I always upload all my proposals, along with explanations, on my blog during the annual sessions of the CPPCC National Committee and the National People's Congress, the country's top legislature, so that journalists can better understand them and disseminate them among the public. It's important to explain the proposals and their applications to the people, because their response will help us better formulate our proposals.
Step by step, I have realized the process of formulating a proposal is more like carrying out a systematic project. First, you need to raise a pertinent issue at the CPPCC National Committee session. Then you conduct a survey to collect more data and analyze all the available information. Finally, you submit a written proposal to the relevant department and wait for its response. So the process is more like research work.
Some CPPCC members lack the art of using a proposal as an important tool, while some don't know how to raise issues that people actually care about. CPPCC members have the responsibility to take care of people's needs, by definition their position is political.
As the last annual session of the 12th CPPCC National Committee opens on Friday, it offers the CPPCC members the chance to summarize their proposals and ideas over the five years. They need to use this opportunity and see submitting proposals as a really valuable political, economic and social duty. Using the proposals as a powerful tool that influences policymaking is very important in these times when our country progresses toward comprehensive and deepening reforms.
The author is a member of the 12th National Committee of the CPPCC, and vice-dean of the School of Public Policy and Management, Tsinghua University. This article is an excerpt from his interview with China Daily's Wu Zheyu.
SHI YU/CHINA DAILY
The rental property market in Beijing has been warming up with the return of migrant workers after the Spring Festival holiday. The increase in house rent in the post-Spring Festival period is more than 10 percent this year, compared with 3 percent in the same period last year. The period immediately after Spring Festival in Beijing sees an increase not only in owner-tenant agreements but also house rent.
The rapid rise in housing prices last year played an important role in the unusual increase in house rent this year. When the real estate market is sluggish, more second-hand houses are offered for rent and prevent rent from rising rapidly. And if the real estate market is hot, more second-hand houses that otherwise would have been offered for rent will be sold, and as demand exceeds supply the rent rates will increase.
Housing prices in Beijing have risen sharply over the past two years, much higher than rent rates. So the recent sharp increase in house rent can also be regarded as a transmission effect of the rapidly rising housing prices.
Because of the rapid increase in housing price in first-tier cities, the average age of people buying their first house is gradually delaying to between 31 and 35, which could also have influenced the increase in house rent. Statistics show that in the first-tier cities about 77 percent of the tenants are aged between 20 and 30, and the period for which they rent houses has correspondingly increased.
With the development of subway lines and supporting facilities such as education, medical treatment and commercial real estate in suburban areas, more and more people in Beijing choose to rent houses beyond the Fifth Ring Road, which offer more rental properties. In addition, due to real estate control policies, the sale of second-hand houses has declined in Beijing for three consecutive months. This means more second-hand homeowners are postponing their decision to sell their properties and offering them for rent.
Since 2015 central and local governments have been focusing on the simultaneous development of the real estate and house rent markets to standardize the house rent sector. But the rapid increase in rent despite the ever-increasing supply of rental properties indicates the supply of houses is still not enough to meet the demand. For instance, the young generation's demand for rental properties has changed and the traditional house rent market cannot meet their individual demands.
Given these factors, the government should accelerate the formulation of legislation on the rental property market. On June 3 last year, the General Office of the State Council issued a guideline for the cultivation and development of the rental property market. Now, they should further strengthen the market rules and regulations, especially the inspection mechanism, and enforce the law more strictly against rule breakers to safeguard the legal rights of consumers and provide them with the necessary legal help.
The authorities should also encourage more enterprises and developers to offer their properties for rent. Till now about 90 percent of the houses for rent are offered by individual homeowners, as enterprises prefer to sell their properties instead of offering them for rent. So the authorities should encourage enterprises to offer their properties for rent by expanding their financial channel that will enable them to build more rental properties.
Moreover, the authorities should further regulate the rental property market by strengthening the supervision of the real estate agency service, and strictly implementing the professional qualification system of property agencies.
They should also build as well as encourage commercial developers to build more low-rent housing to meet the rising demand of consumers.
The author is a researcher at the Institute for Urban and Environmental Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi meets with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Feb 28, in Washington. [Yin Bogu / Xinhua]
A zero-sum mentality, which refers to game theory in which a gain for one side means an equal loss for another, has dominated the thinking of some when they look at China-US relations.
When US President Donald Trump released his new budget this week to greatly increase the defense spending by partly slashing State Department funding, some in the West were quick to conclude that this was a win for China. They claimed that the retreat of US diplomacy would allow China to expand its influence.
There has also been discussion in the United States about whether Trump's protectionist and isolationist policy equals a greater leadership role on the world stage for China.
For years, we have heard that China's growing investment and trade in Africa and Latin America means it will eclipse the US' influence in those regions.
Such zero-sum thinking is harmful, especially when they poison the thinking of pundits, journalists and government officials.
Episode 12 of Madam Secretary Season 3, a fictional TV series, features Secretary Elizabeth McCord jostling with a Chinese diplomat for business deals in Togo and other parts of Africa. In real life, former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton implied in 2011 during her tour to the continent that China's activities in Africa are neocolonialism.
Her zero-sum mindset aside, the comparison is a total disconnect from reality as I saw for myself during a trip to Ethiopia in 2014.When I recently asked David Dollar, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution who has done extensive research on Chinese activities in Africa, he said it was mistake to use that phrase and, in some ways, it's insulting to African countries.
China is not perfect and it is still a learning process for many Chinese enterprises to operate overseas. But to dismiss their wonderful work in building infra-structure, investing in manufacturing and creating jobs in Africa reflects a zero-sum mindset.
China was playing a growing international role long before Trump took office. China has been the main engine for global growth for decades. It is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Belt and Road Initiative (the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road) help regional connectivity and development. The list goes on.
The US should applaud the greater role being played by China, after it has been calling for just that for years. In 2005, for instance, Robert Zoellick, then US deputy secretary of state, urged China to become a responsible stakeholder, and a few years ago the previous president Barack Obama blindly accused China of being a "free rider".
That said, it is inevitable that China will play a larger role given that it has become the world's second largest economy, the largest trading nation and is still the most populous country. Other emerging economies are also playing bigger roles.
China is not interested in leading the world alone, and since it is still a developing nation it cannot lead the world alone. As an established world power, the US should be more accommodating to the rise of China. The Trump administration should not adopt the mindset that Obama exhibited when he tried to prevent the US' allies from joining the AIIB.
China and the US both would be the winners if they help African development, Asian connectivity, and work together to address global climate change and ensure world peace. They must not look at each other as a zero-sum game.
The author is deputy editor of China Daily USA. chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com
Police seize a simulated gangster during an emergency drill in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. [MA YUAN/CHINA DAILY]
A sensational video purportedly by the Islamic State terrorist group, featuring an ethnic Uygur militant threatening to "shed blood like rivers" in attacks on Chinese targets, may or may not be what it was meant and believed to be, though some experts do see it as the "first", "direct" threat the terrorist organization has leveled against China.
But it justifies the Chinese government's worries regarding the seriousness of terrorist threats on home soil, given that some members of terrorist forces such as the East Turkestan Islamic Movement have been colluding with international terrorist organizations such as IS.
However, more often than not these concerns have met with denial and dismissal from the West: The most popular Western narrative of late being innocent Uygurs rebelling against Han-Chinese "repression".
The killing of a Chinese hostage in 2015 by the IS group and increasing recent evidence of Uygur fighters joining jihadists in Syria and Iraq via Southeast Asia have made Beijing's critics haver somewhat, and the video lends further credence to Beijing's claims, especially the oft-ignored assertions of links between domestic and foreign terrorist elements.
Although the authenticity of the video warrants suspicion and needs verifying, a 2016 study by Washington-based think tank New America reported more than 100 Uygurs from the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region had joined IS. It also identified Xinjiang as the single largest source of foreign IS fighters outside of Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.
The video might just have borrowed the IS name in order to amplify its intimidating effects. But the footage of ethnic Uygurs undergoing terrorist training is a familiar element of similar previous terrorist propaganda.
The terrorist propaganda may lead to chain reactions in Xinjiang and beyond once it reaches its intended audience. It will also inspire heightened vigilance and precautions.
But it would be completely wrong to assume this is a hot potato that can be left to Beijing alone. There can be no more telling proof that terrorists threaten China as well as other countries.
The alleged IS fighter made it very clear the terrorists are targeting "infidels across the world", and they want to plant their flag "over America, China, Russia".
Whether or not the video is an authentic IS production, it reinforces the irrevocable fact that terrorism knows no national boundaries.
If the fight against terrorism continues to be bogged down in quarrels over definitions and standards, the whole world will remain vulnerable to the threats of terror.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development said on Wednesday it will use remote satellite sensing to monitor illegal constructions in cities nationwide this year, which is more accurate and efficient than relying on inspections by the local authorities.
So far, the project, the first of its kind in China, has been monitoring 297 cities at the prefecture level and above. The ministry receives the monitoring results on a monthly basis.
In the past months, the ministry has handled eight severe cases of illegal construction, in which riverbeds, places of historic interest and ecological reserves have been illegally used for brick-and-mortar projects, in Gansu, Shaanxi, and Anhui provinces, among others.
The ministry has ordered the provincial authorities to take immediate actions to stop constructions that infringe upon public space, public interests and areas of ecological importance, or have serious potential safety risks, and to hold those responsible accountable.
The ministry will also start an evaluation of the implementation of urban comprehensive planning in 108 major cities, especially local authorities' performance in dealing with illegal constructions.
Officials that fail to monitor or deal with the problem will be held accountable as well.
The ministry has also clarified that illegal constructions will now be dealt with in accordance with the Criminal Law, rather than the law on urban planning.
Visitors try the latest smartphones of Xiaomi Corp at an industry expo in Wuzhen, Zhejiang province. [Photo/China Daily]
A TEACHER in a middle school in Deyang, in southwestern China's Sichuan province, told a student to smash his smartphone after discovering the student playing with the phone in class. Beijing News commented on Thursday:
Although the teacher was rightly urging the student to focus on the class, the teacher should have done so in a legal way. The smartphone is the student's personal belonging and therefore, according to the Property Law the teacher had no right to demand the destruction of the student's phone.
In fact, students are usually in a disadvantaged position in relation to their teachers and schools. Given their unequal status and power, without the consent of the students and parents and the authorization of the school, the teacher's act is too extreme.
Under the existing educational philosophy, the purpose of the school is to teach and educate children first. Providing guidance to those students behaving badly is always better than punishing them.
Maintaining order in the classroom in accordance with school rules is part of a teacher's duties, but this must be done in a legitimate and humane manner.
In view of this, when students use their mobile phones in class, the teacher should remind, advise, and educate them that this is not appropriate behavior, cooperating with the student's parents if necessary.
Tell a Chinese person you are headed to Chongqing and they will undoubtedly insist you sample the citys most iconic dishhotpot. The cauldron of flavor, which formidably combines spice, numbness, fragrance, and heat, derives much of its personality from locally produced hot pepper oil and related spices. However, contrary to local bravado, spice is not exclusive to Sichuan and a daring few have decided to import Indian red peppers to innovate the culinary classic.
In a first time move, a total of 14 tons of this Indian variant recently passed through Chongqing Lianglu Cuntan Inspection and Quarantine Bureau and is the first batch to do so, liangjiang.gov.cn reported on Feb 27.
With a total value of 266, 094 yuan ($38,640), the dry peppers, unquestionably the most important part of Chongqings hotpot seasoning, have been imported by a local company from the Chongqing Lianglu-Cuntan Free Trade Port Area.
India is a country famed for its range of culinary delicacies based around spice and here Indian farmers allow red peppers to dry in the sun. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]
The authorities anticipate the import leading to a trend of peppers arriving from the South Asian country on account of the rising prices of locally produced peppers. Additionally, many believe that the differences in spice and color will add to the allure of importing from India.
The voyage made by these brave chili peppers was nothing short of a logistical mastermind and it took a grand total of 45 days from start to finish. First, loaded trains ran from Hyderabad, located in southern India, to the east coast. Next, goods were transferred onto ships and delivered to Shanghai Waigaoqiao. Upon arrival in China, the peppers were placed onto river boats and sent up the Yangtze River before eventually arriving in Chongqing Cuntan Port.
An official from Chongqing Lianglu Cuntan Inspection and Quarantine Bureau checks the recent arrival of dry red peppers in Chongqing Cuntan Port. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]
Thanks to a novel mode of water transportation pioneered by the Chongqing Lianglu Cuntan Tariff Bonded Zone, cargos ships carrying freight such as fresh agricultural products and other time-sensitive products are allowed to be shipped to Chongqing at a low cost.
This development is rapidly changing the type and quality of goods arriving in the city and a president was set on Dec 22, 2016, when 13 tons of fresh beef arrived in Chongqing Lianglu Cuntan Tariff Bonded Zone from Australia. The continuation of the policy and the ambitions of local businessmen will ensure that Chongqings opening-up and economic development thrives.
The imported dry red peppers are inspected by officials from Chongqing Lianglu Cuntan Inspection and Quarantine Bureau. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]
Edited by Richard Whiddington
A flock of swans on the Dongting lake in Hunan province, Mar 1, 2017. Many birds gather together near the Dongting lake district as they prepare to fly north. Each October, a significant number of migratory birds fly from the northern part of China to the Dongting lake to spend the harsh winter. A survey conducted in January this year showed that there were more than 180,000 migratory water birds in the region, which is the highest since 2006.[Photo/Xinhua]
Perceptions of World War II in the Asia Pacific theatre, for many, equates to genocides, atrocities and crimes Japanese soldiers committed against civilians of neighboring Asian countries, particularly China and Korea.
The collective memory of Chinese and Koreans related to that particular period of history remains a deep scar running down through generations. I can't believe that there are still a handful of Japanese right-wing extremists who habitually deny history, consistently mount offensives worldwide and ultimately try to foil any effort to spread the truth about WWII and honor its victims.
On Saturday, a local committee seeking to erect a comfort woman's statue in April in Atlanta, Georgia, said the Japanese government had sent diplomats to meet with local heavyweights in order to squelch the plan.
At a press conference, the committee said the statue, to be installed at the Center for Civil and Human Rights Museum, is to symbolize Korean victims of wartime sexual slavery.
Japanese Consul General in Atlanta Takashi Shinozuka was reported to have conducted intensive lobbying in local political and business circles after the committee announced its initiative in early February.
He threatened the economic fallout that would take place, citing the many Japanese companies now operating in Atlanta that would ditch the city if the statue were erected.
Korean-American Kim Baek-Kyu, leader of the 25-member committee, said she would push ahead with the statue installation and categorically rejected Japan's warning, saying there was no link between the statue and economic impact. She called it "fabricated."
Atlanta is not the only place where the Japanese government has tried to block memorials or monuments that showcase its war-related atrocities and crimes.
In early February in San Francisco, the municipal government announced that it expected to receive in March a "comfort women" memorial as a gift from an activist group. It's the first-ever memorial to "comfort women" in a major US city.
The statue, which depicts a trio of women with linked hands as a fourth woman looks on, is expected to be installed at St. Mary's Square in Chinatown this year. San Francisco's city board of supervisors in 2015 unanimously approved the project, which was pushed through by retired San Francisco Superior Court judges Julie Tang and Lillian Sing.
The inscription on the statue reads, "This monument bears witness to the suffering of hundreds of thousands of women and girls euphemistically called 'Comfort Women,' who were sexually enslaved by the Japanese Imperial Armed Forces in 13 Asian-Pacific countries from 1931 to 1945.
"Most of these women died during their wartime captivity," the inscription continues. "This dark history was largely hidden for decades until the 1990s, when the survivors courageously broke their silence. They helped move the world to declare that sexual violence as a strategy of war is a crime against humanity for which governments must be held accountable."
Opposition from the Japanese government and members of the Japanese-American community in the Bay Area has been fierce, calling the memorial's message "divisive".
The Japanese right wing tried to kill the project from the beginning by lobbying the San Francisco government at every level. The most prominent objection was from Hirofumi Yoshimura, mayor of Osaka, a sister city of San Francisco, who called the installation "unprecedented".
But San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee pushed back, writing in a Feb 3 letter to Hirofumi: "San Francisco has many public and private memorials that commemorate some of history's darkest moments, as well as call for peace and reconciliation."
The memorial is important because Japan has never formally apologized for the suffering it inflicted on these women. The Atlanta organization stressed the significance of establishing the statue to promote both human rights and as a reminder to never repeat the unfortunate history between the two Asian countries.
"Truth and justice shall prevail," said Ding Yuan, executive vice-president of the Global Alliance for Preserving the History of WWII in Asia, a Cupertino-based human rights organization established in 1994.
Contact the writer at junechang@chinadailyusa.com.
The expression "trolling" is internet lingo for posting inflammatory or impertinent remarks designed to get people worked up or upset. It's the cyber equivalent of harassment and usually ad hominem, off-topic and written to sting.
As more than a few US politicians have discovered in recent weeks, trolling is spilling out of the web and into the arena of town meetings. Representatives home from Washington on break have been getting an earful of scorn from sign-waving rabble-rousers who may or may not be getting paid for their efforts.
News comes of a successful Chinese-American author who unsuspectingly walked into a buzz saw of trolling in, of all places, an elite high school in Dallas. And the internet has been well put to try to make things right.
Highland Park High School administrators have sent an apology to New York Times best-selling author Jamie Ford, who was visiting the school last week to keynote its literary festival.
He describes the incident in a blog post titled "The highs and lows of Highland Park School".
After visiting 100 schools, he writes, from the kind in inner-city New York that require see-through backpacks and metal detectors to tony baccalaureates, he finally "had a school visit go sideways."
The students listened as the author of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet took the stage, they politely laughed at his jokes when he talked about his high school career. Then they clapped and cheered and as he tried to speak again, they began clapping again.
"For twenty minutes as I tried to wrap up my presentation, you clapped and cheered randomly," he writes, addressing the students on his Facebook page. "A thousand students, trolling me."
"I was as perplexed as your teachers and your principal - who was just off stage - stood impotent, while you mocked me, a guest to your magnificent school," he goes on.
Despite the 1,000-to-1 odds, he stubbornly pressed on. "I wasn't about to be run off the stage by a bunch of children who had decided I was just another mark to be bullied," he said.
Ford managed to end his talk on a bittersweet note, talking about the incarceration of 120,000 Japanese Americans and nationals [during World War II] and about how if Americans forget that piece of history, we are all diminished as a people.
"I got my point across and in that brief moment your impoliteness was forgiven and all was well. I thanked you for not clapping and cheering the Japanese Internment.
"Then you clapped and cheered the Japanese Internment. You couldn't resist. That showed me more about you than I wanted to know."
After the presentation, a handful of students sought him out to apologize. The school superintendent called to apologize. Positive comments, emails and messages poured in.
"Please don't judge all of Texas by Dallas," Monica Kilgore posted. "We know it's always been full of fifty dollar a day millionaires."
Jeffrey Willson wrote: "I can only hope that upon reflection those kids feel a deep sense of shame and recognize how monstrous crowds can become and that they are each to blame for pilling on or sitting silent."
A senior at the school, who had watched the presentation by remote feed from a classroom, wrote to explain to Ford that the students in the auditorium were 13-to-16-year-old freshmen and sophomores "who tend to make very stupid decisions, as you most likely did at that age. I find it very offensive that you have identified our entire school with the actions of these young students."
I remember reading about German-occupied Holland during World War II, one of the forms of passive resistance loyal Dutchmen would practice was similar. When assembled at mandatory rallies to listen to their Nazi-sympathizing mayors speak, they would cheer and roar and applaud thunderously every time he tried to open his mouth, drowning him out and not letting him get a word in edgewise.
And that's reminiscent of the great scene in the film Casablanca when Victor Lazlo tells the band at Rick's Caf to strike up the French national anthem to drown out the bellowing German soldiers' singing beer hall songs.
Those two examples of "trolling" were to push back against tyranny. In civil society, that kind of rancor should have no seat at the table.
Contact the writer at chrisdavis@chinadailyusa.com.
Tensions in region eased since relations with Philippines were repaired last year
The concern about "freedom of navigation" in the South China Sea is "much ado about nothing", a spokesman for the annual session of the top political advisory body said at a news conference in Beijing on Thursday.
"There is an old Chinese saying that 'There's no trouble in the world, except for what the unenlightened agitate'," said Wang Guoqing, spokesman for the Fifth Session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, when asked about how China can ensure navigational freedom in the South China Sea.
"As a major trading nation and the biggest country along the South China Sea, China attaches more importance than any other country to navigational freedom and security in the South China Sea," Wang said.
He said the accusation of "China threatening navigational freedom", which has been raised by some nations, is a "fake proposition", as there have never been problems in that regard since China took back its islands in the South China Sea after World War II.
Stressing that the South China Sea islands are an integral part of China's territory, Wang said that it is "perfectly normal" for China to build facilities, including those necessary for defensive purposes, on its own territory.
The civilian facilities China has built on the South China Sea islands, such as lighthouses, have played a positive role in guaranteeing navigation safety and humanitarian rescue, Wang added.
On Feb 12, the US Navy Times reported that the United States navy was planning to dispatch warships to the South China Sea for "freedom of navigation" operations.
Last month, the USS Carl Vinson Nimitz-class carrier strike group began patrolling the South China Sea.
Luo Yongkun, a researcher at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, said that since relations between Beijing and Manila were repaired last year after the new Philippine administration came to power, tensions in the South China Sea have been eased.
"The waters are at peace now, but Washington sent its carrier here in the name of protecting navigational freedom. It is obvious that we are not the one destabilizing the region."
Xinhua contributed to this story.
The RMS Titanic leaves Belfast for sea trials on April 2, 1912. The ship was one of the most opulent liners to have ever been built and the largest steamship in the world. It struck an iceberg on its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, to New York City and sank on April 15, 1912. [Photo/VCG]
US Attorney General Jeff Sessions speaks at a news conference at the Justice Department in Washington, US, March 2, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]
WASHINGTON Under intensifying pressure, Attorney General Jeff Sessions abruptly agreed Thursday to recuse himself from any investigation into Russian meddling in America's 2016 presidential election. He acted after revelations he twice spoke with the Russian ambassador during the campaign and failed to say so when pressed by Congress.
Sessions rejected any suggestion that he had tried to mislead anyone about his contacts with the Russian, saying, "That is not my intent. That is not correct."But he did allow that he should have been more careful in his testimony during his confirmation hearing, saying, "I should have slowed down and said, 'But I did meet one Russian official a couple of times.'"The White House has stood by Sessions in the latest controversy to dog President Donald Trump's young administration, though officials say they first learned about his contacts with the ambassador from a reporter Wednesday night. Trump himself said Thursday he had "total" confidence in Sessions and didn't think he needed to recuse himself not long before he did.
One of Sessions' conversations with Ambassador Sergey Kislyak occurred at a July event on the sidelines of the Republican National Convention in Cleveland. At that same event, the ambassador also spoke with Carter Page, who briefly advised Trump's campaign on foreign policy, according to a person with knowledge of the discussion.
Separately, a White House official said Thursday that Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and ousted national security adviser Michael Flynn met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in New York in December. The official described that sit-down as a brief courtesy meeting.
Flynn was fired last month for misleading Vice President Mike Pence about his contacts with Kislyak.
The Trump team's account of Flynn's contacts with the ambassador has changed several times. The White House did not disclose the in-person meeting, or Kushner's involvement, until Thursday.
Both the White House official and the person with knowledge of Page's discussion insisted on anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly disclose the meetings.
Trump has been trailed for months by questions about potential ties to Russia, and allegations of Russian efforts to interfere in the US election to help him defeat Hillary Clinton. The new president and his campaign officials have blamed such contentions on Democratic sore losers and have heatedly denied any contact with Russians concerning the election.
While there is nothing necessarily nefarious or even unusual about a member of Congress meeting with a foreign ambassador, typically members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee meet with foreign ambassadors, not Armed Services Committee lawmakers, such as Sessions, whose responsibility is oversight of the military and the Pentagon.
The latest development comes on the heels of what had been the high point of Trump's young presidency: a well-received address to Congress Tuesday night that energized Republicans and appeared to wipe away some lawmakers' concerns about the administration's tumultuous start.
Smoke rises over the rebel-held area of Ain Tarma, eastern countryside of Damascus, capital of Syria, on Feb 7, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]
DAMASCUS -- The Syrian army announced in a statement that the Syrian forces captured the ancient city of Palmyra in central Syria on Thursday after battles with the Islamic State (IS) group.
Following a series of successful operations backed by Russian and Syrian air forces, the Syrian army and allied fighters captured the city of Palmyra and its surroundings, the army said in a statement.
The achievement came after the Syrian forces inflicted hefty losses on the IS militants, said the statement, adding that bomb squads are currently combing the city to defuse the leftovers of the IS roadside bombs and explosives.
"This importance of this achievement emanates from the cultural and historic value of Palmyra," said the statement, adding that the victory in Palmyra against IS also coincides with the victories of the Syrian army in the eastern countryside of Aleppo against IS.
"These victories deal a big blow to the terrorist group, which has started to retreat under the strikes of the Syrian army and allied forces," it said.
Capturing Palmyra constitutes a base for expanding the campaign against IS on many fronts and also helps suffocate the group's supply lines.
"The Syrian army and its allies are today more determined to continue the operations against IS and the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front as well as other likeminded groups until restoring security and stability to every inch of the homeland," the statement concluded.
The Syrian army backed by Russian air force and fighters of the Lebanese Hezbollah group unleashed a counter offensive to retake the city on Jan. 14 this year, just days after the IS militants took the city for the second time.
Last December, the group stormed the city for the second time after losing it nine months earlier to the Syrian army.
Pavlina Melicharova poses in Swayambhunath Temple, Nepal. Pavlina Melicharova, a 49-year-old woman from Czech Republic, embarked on an Eat Pray Love-style trip after she walked away from her unhappy relationship. She started by photographing herself at iconic sites wearing her own wedding dress - but changed tact around six months ago as part of a voyage of self-discovery. The mum-of-two has so far posed in around 150 traditional dresses - everything from glittering sarees to beaded tunics - in iconic or stunning settings. Describing herself as "model, photographer, designer, hairdresser, stylist and traveller in one" - she takes a 'follow me' photo from behind using a tripod. So far she has taken photos in villages, towns and cities in 20 countries including India, Mexico, Bolivia, Malaysia, Sir Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Thailand and the Philippines - and has no plans to stop. [Photo/VCG]
TOKYO/BEIJING -- Fang, a 36-year old Chinese woman, came to Japan a year ago on the promise of job training, decent pay and a chance to achieve a better life back home.
One year later however, she ended up getting a job that involves little training of any sort, but repetitive, strenuous work, skimpy pay and even humiliating scolding from her boss from time to time.
"I really regret coming to Japan," Fang said at her tiny, makeshift room converted from containers in Hiroshima, western Japan. She prefers her full name not to be made public.
Fang's job is sewing clothes at a home-run factory in a remote farmland area, where she works with 28 other Chinese "trainees" who were brought to Japan under a Japanese government-sponsored Technical Intern Training Program.
"We have to work at a hectic pace here, with almost no time to rest," she said, citing the fact that though the Chinese trainees already work very hard, the boss often scolds them for no reason, and yells at them to make them work even harder.
Despite such a heavy work load, Fang has not been able to earn much money as she had expected, as the wages for foreign trainees are only roughly half the amount Japanese workers are paid for doing similar work.
Meanwhile, the living conditions are poor as she has to share with five other trainees a 10-square-meter makeshift room which has neither kitchen, bathroom, air conditioner, heater nor TV and Wi-Fi. The rent for such a room, however, amounts to 120,000 yen (1,056 U.S. dollars) a month, which is much more expensive even than in Tokyo, the Japan's capital.
Lu, a 35-year-old Chinese trainee working at a construction company in Hiroshima, said that almost all the Chinese trainees working in Japan regret about their decisions as they earn a pittance and learn very little from the excessive labor here.
"I hope my compatriots could know what we've been through here in Japan, so that they won't be fooled and make bad choice like us," Fang said.
INTERNSHIP OR SERVITUDE
Fang and Lu's stories are snapshots of the sad experience of hundreds of thousands of foreign trainees working in Japan, many of whom found themselves only used as cheap labor and trapped in indentured servitude.
According to media reports, as of last June, there are altogether 210,000 foreigners working in firms and farms across Japan as what Tokyo calls trainees, among whom the Japanese Ministry of Justice has recently confirmed that some 85,000 are Chinese.
The program, which allows foreign trainees to stay in Japan for three years, was introduced by the Japanese government in 1993, and has been advertised as providing transferrable technical skills for them when they return home.
However, the program has been widely criticized as a platform to attract cheap labor from overseas to compensate for Japan's labor shortage caused by an aging workforce and immigration curbs.
With little legal protection, the foreign trainees are often underpaid, and illegally placed as oyster shuckers, construction workers and other unskilled positions. Many of the indentured work force are exposed to substandard, sometimes even deadly working conditions.
Lu said some Chinese trainees working for other Japanese construction companies are often scolded and even beaten by their bosses.
"I've heard that a Chinese trainee became a vegetable after getting his head seriously wounded by a falling excavator," Lu said, adding the trainee has already been hospitalized for several months but his company has done nothing to help him.
"I don't know what will happen to him in the next," Lu said.
He noted that many of the trainees, before landing in Japan, have already paid large sums of money in broker fees and saddled with insurmountable debts, as Japanese businesses have to hire them through either private or official middlemen according to the program.
Also, as their visas usually tie them to a particular company, they cannot change jobs even when they feel bad about their bosses.
In a system equivalent to modern-day slavery, many interns have escaped, though sometimes it meant breaking the law.
Local news outlet The Japan Times reported in October last year that a record 5,803 foreign trainees went missing in 2015 while working in Japan, among them 3,116 were Chinese, followed by 1,705 from Vietnam, 336 from Myanmar, 250 from Indonesia and 102 from Nepal.
The interns' situation has sparked widespread concerns and attracted the attention of the Chinese government.
The Chinese Embassy in Japan said it will take strong measures to protect the legitimate rights of Chinese nationals working in Japan under the intern training program.
"The Chinese diplomatic and consular missions in Japan attach great importance to protecting Chinese technical trainees in Japan, and have carried out consular protection and assistance work through various channels and means," the embassy told Xinhua in a recent interview.
The Chinese embassy said it will increase contacts with related Japanese ministries to urge the Japanese side to take concrete measures to protect the legal rights of Chinese interns.
The embassy said it has also visited on a regular basis the factories and workshops that hire Chinese trainees so as to learn firsthand about their difficulties and problems.
Last year, the embassy also provided consular protection for and assistance to the Chinese trainees involved in some 100 cases in the island nation, helping them negotiate better deals in labor disputes and offering them legal assistance, among others.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo (R) watches as former president Megawati Sukarnoputri and her daughter Puan Maharani, a minister in his cabinet, take a selfie with Saudi Arabia's King Salman (C) at the presidential palace in Jakarta, Indonesia March 2, 2017 in this photo taken by Presidential Palace Photographer. [Photo/Agencies]
JAKARTA - Saudi Arabia's King Salman has embraced the "selfie", taking part in a number of light-hearted self-shot pictures and videos during his tour of Asia that contrast with the pomp and formality of most of the octogenarian monarch's trips abroad.
In the first days of a lengthy regional tour, the king has appeared with top-ranking officials in Indonesia and Malaysia in pictures and clips that have been shared online millions of times.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo shared on Facebook a video of himself dining with the king at the presidential palace in Bogor, near the capital Jakarta.
In the video, both men comment on the visit, the first to Indonesia by a Saudi king in nearly five decades, and give viewers a rare peek into a state event.
As Widodo holds what appears to be a phone camera, the king is seen dining on soup and using gold-coloured cutlery before commenting in Arabic on his 12-day visit to Indonesia, the longest leg of his month-long tour of Asia.
"I'm very happy to be here in Indonesia and with the Indonesian people," King Salman says to the camera, as an interpreter sitting behind him translates into Bahasa Indonesia.
The king was also photographed posing for a selfie with former president Megawati Sukarnoputri and her daughter Puan Maharani, who is a member of Widodo's cabinet.
Indonesia has a high concentration of Facebook and Twitter users, and selfies are a mainstay of social media in the world's fourth most populous country.
Earlier this week, Salman was seen in a selfie posted on Twitter with Prime Minister Najib Razak of Malaysia, during the first stop on his sweep across Asia.
Though rare, Salman has made occasional appearances on social media before, including when he posed last year for a selfie in Qatar with a teen who survived cancer.
The king is travelling with an entourage of several hundred people and nearly 500 tonnes of luggage, including two gold-coloured escalators.
After Jakarta, the delegation is set to take a break in the resort island of Bali, where up to four hotels and 300 luxury cars have been booked for more than a week, according to local police and a tour agency association.
Salman is also set to visit Brunei, China, Japan, the Maldives and Jordan.
Reuters
SYDNEY -- The Cairns Frog Hospital has been operating for 18 years in Australia and is believed to be the only one of its kind in the world.
After moving five times, the practice has occupied its current location for eight years, but with the owner of the building wanting to sell the property, the hospital will be forced to move again.
Finding an appropriate rental property for any business can be challenging at the best of times, but for a frog hospital, it is even more difficult than you might imagine.
"Real estate agents up here (North Queensland) are automatically spraying houses with pesticides, even if they don't need it," founder and President of the Cairns Frog Hospital Deborah Pergalotti told Xinhua.
"Once it has been sprayed, it is useless for our purposes."
In fact, the problem has not just made things challenging for frog hospitals, frogs themselves are globally in decline and Pergalotti believes it is down to the over use of these sprays.
"Frogs are very sensitive to chemicals and Australia is a very heavy chemical user," she said.
"It's not just farmers who use them, a lot of domestic households use these chemicals to and unfortunately it only takes a small amount."
Also adding to the stress of relocation is the inflated rental prices in the area.
"Rents are escalating up here something chronic, in a reasonable neighbourhood we are looking at around 450 Australian dollars (340 U.S. dollars) per week and that's at the bottom of the market," she said.
There has also been pressure on the hospital from the local council, who wants the organization to move onto an acreage property, which could cost anywhere from 800 to 2,000 Australian dollars.
"We've had to look in an area that starts two hours south of Cairns, right up to the region that is two hours north of Cairns, to find something that is not sprayed with pesticide and is a reasonable rental," she said.
Despite numerous challenges, the hospital is determined to continue its work and help the amphibious population survive.
"Even other frog groups thought we were nuts when we started to rescue and rehabilitate frogs, they thought that was a silly idea," she said.
"But over time we've learned a great deal about the animal, so it's quite a valuable and important process to do and why should a frog that has a broken leg be left to die, when it could be fixable?"
British designers who are known for their skill and high-quality craftsmanship are in demand in China, opening the door for a London-based furniture producer to contribute to a new school library project that blends Western concepts with Chinese culture.
Luke Hughes has created a mix of Chinese and Western styles in the library of a new Beijing school. [China Daily]
Luke Hughes, founder of one of the United Kingdom's leading furniture design companies, Luke Hughes, was tasked with designing, engineering, and making furniture for a library at a new international school in Beijing.
"I think one of the reasons the Chinese like some of the British brands is because they are good," he said. "We do the small things really wellthe cars, the clothes, shoes and so on. Mass production, we're not so good at, but craftsmanship is still alive in this country."
For the project that might have ordinarily taken 12 months to complete, Hughes had a time-frame of four months.
In that time, he delivered 24 metric tons of furniture, 85 percent of which was made in the UK.
Hughes, who has made furniture for both Oxford and Cambridge universities, the Supreme Court, and both Harvard and Yale universities in the United States, said the furniture made for the Chinese school included subtle nods to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) while blending Eastern and Western aesthetics reflecting the digital age.
"I think the Ming Dynasty furniture is particularly beautiful, it is probably the most beautiful period of Chinese furniture," Hughes said. "We wanted to influence the space with color, so we chose three very traditional ceramic colors associated with temples and on the wallsyellow of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), blue associated with Chinese ceramics and a warm red."
One of the aims was to create a space that students wanted to visit, ponder and "possibly stumble upon the unexpected".
He said libraries should not only be about housing books but also be places people fl ow through easily, feel comfortable in, and want to visit.
British sculptor Jill Watson also contributed to the library, designing bronze door handles for the main door in the form of two dragonsone Chinese and one Welsh.
Hughes said an inscription created by Caroline Webb also catches attention.
"The inscription, which is carved on slate, says By Leaves we Liveand it is a three-way pun," he said. "By leaves of trees, we can breathe the air and oxygen etc, by leaves of books we learn and we become enriched and our lives are better that way, and also through departures we grow."
He said the commission was about being inspired by both cultures.
"It isn't about an ego of Britishness that one tries to present here, what is presented is a mix of values of the best of the West and the best of the East," he said. "We have hints of this East-meets-West metaphor. A lot of clues like that, such as pictures around the library wall, including one of the Rosetta Stone."
Another British company experiencing similar interest from China is Arthur Brett, a bespoke furniture maker founded in 1860. Jeremy Loxton, a sales manager at Arthur Brett, said the company has been getting a lot of interest from China and Asia recently.
"Their interest tends to be mainly in classic British designssuch as designs from the Georgian and Regency periods," he said. "There is also an appreciation for the fact that our furniture is all made and finished by hand in England. This is one of our major selling points in all events, but this seems to be especially appreciated by Chinese clients."
Major Chinese chemical company Lianhetech has bought UK-based chemical manufacturer Fine Industries in a 103 million pound ($126.5 million) deal, securing more than 200 jobs and providing Lianhetech with its fi rst European base.
Shenzhen-listed Lianhetech purchased Fine Industries, based near Middlesbrough, from private equity firm North Edge Capital. Lianhetech is one of China's leading contract chemical manufacturersit has a market value of $2 billion and operates seven chemical production sites, two machinery production sites, and two research and development centers in China. Fine Industries will now act as Lianhetech's European headquarters from which it will work with clients in the agricultural, pharmaceutical and performance chemical industries.
Lianhetech chief executive Maggie Wang said: "The acquisition provides the capability and expertise needed to develop new products and better utilize Lianhetech's state-of-the-art tech for our customers worldwide. We expect Fine Industries' customer base, expertise and capabilities to strengthen our organizational offerings."
Fine Industries manufactures chemicals for agro-chemical and pharmaceutical clients. It employs 220 workers and delivered a turnover of 52 million pounds in 2016. NorthEdge originally invested in Fine Industries in November 2013.
Fine Industries chief executive Chris Gowland said that Lianhetech's brand and reputation was well known.
He said: "I expect the union of the companies to further strengthen our position in the global market. Becoming part of the Lianhetech team is a very exciting opportunity for Fine Industries and we feel privileged it has selected our business to be the platform for its European expansion strategy."
China has rapidly become the largest market for chemicals in the world, with an annual growth rate of 23 percent between 2005 and 2013, when China's share of the global chemical market reached 33 percent. Petrochemical industry research firm ICIS estimates it will have a 40 percent share by 2020.
Ray Stenton, partner at NorthEdge Capital, called Fine Industries the "ideal platform" for Lianhetech's European operations.
"As Lianhetech's first investment outside of China, this represents a significant strategic development and sign of their future ambition," Stenton said.
Though most foreign companies doing business in China understand the importance of delicately handling their employee terminations, too many do not understand the need to pay special attention to employee resignations as well. This is because it is not at all uncommon for a Chinese employee to claim that his or her resignation was not voluntary, and that in fact he or she was compelled to leave the company because it failed to follow Chinese employment laws. This means that you as the employer need to be clear on the reason for all of your employee resignations and, more importantly, you need to maintain written records documenting what led to your soon-to-be former employees departure.
The first thing you should do with an employee who is resigning is to make sure that his or her resignation letter properly lists the reason for the resignation. If your employee tells you orally or via WeChat or QQ that he or she is leaving for a job with a better fit, but the resignation letter lists the reason as compensation issues, you have a problem. The Chinese labor authorities recently just made clear their intention to crack down hard on employer failures to pay employees and in response to this, this bait and switch resignation letter technique has become quite common. The employee who writes you this sort of resignation letter may turn around and sue you for allegedly due back wages, plus interest, plus penalties, plus attorneys fees.
If you get this sort of resignation letter, we suggest you seek to clarify with your employee the compensation issues he or she is referencing in the resignation letter. Is your employee blaming you for having failed to pay wages on time or in full or both? If you approve your employees resignation letter by affixing your company chop to it resignation, you probably just admitted in writing to having violated Chinas employee compensation laws. And by doing so, you have just opened your company up to a lawsuit you will almost certainly lose.
To the extent you have any outstanding issues with one of your resigning employees, the best solution is usually to resolve those issues with your employee via a properly drafted, properly executed Chinese language settlement agreement. Settlement agreements in China are like settlement agreements pretty much everywhere else in that the key is that it prevents any future claims or lawsuits. And just to scare you a bit more, our China lawyers are often called in to resolve matters for foreign companies in China with DIY settlement agreements that are either 100% ineffective so bad they can be used against the foreign company as an admission of wrongdoing in a newly filed lawsuit.
Bottom Line: Treat all employee departures seriously. Document them and, if it makes sense to do so, resolve them with an China-appropriate settlement agreement.
(Photo : Getty Images. ) Chinas former border negotiator Dai Bingguo has once again proposed land swap deal to resolve the longstanding border dispute between India and China.
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One of China's to border negotiator has proposed a land swap arrangement to solve the decade long border dispute between China and India, which has long plagued the bilateral relationship between the two Asian giants.
Dai Bingguo, who represented China in 15 rounds of talks until his retirement in 2013, proposed the solution in an interview to the Beijing-based China-India Dialogue magazine. Dai proposed that India must willingly cede the Tawang region in the disputed Arunachal Pradesh while China will reciprocate by giving up its claim elsewhere.
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Dai justified China's claim on Tawang town by calling it an integral part of the Southern Tibet region. "The disputed territory in the eastern sector of the China-India boundary, including Tawang, is alienable from China's Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction," he said.
The Chinese diplomat made a sweeping claim that even British colonist, who drew the McMahon Line, acknowledged Beijing's claim over the Arunachal Pradesh town. He then unhesitatingly suggested that if India addresses Beijing's concerns in the eastern sector then the Chinese government "will respond accordingly and address India's concerns elsewhere."
According to Indian analysts, the word "elsewhere" pertinently points toward the disputed Aksai Chin region, which Indian government claims to be an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir region. The disputed Aksai Chin is located in China's Xinjiang province, which is apparently China's only Muslim dominated province.
Both Asian giants even fought a war in 1962 over the Aksai Chin region, over which China took complete control after claiming victory in the war.
Dai minced no words as he squarely blamed India for not meeting China's reasonable demand, adding that both countries now "stand in front of the gate towards a final settlement" and the Indian side holds the key to the gate.
Dai Bingguo's comments on border dispute assumes huge importance given that he shares a close report with Chinese leaders and resultantly his views are immensely respected in China's power corridor. He put forward a similar comment on the border issue in his book that was published last year.
Both countries have held total 19 rounds of talk over the border dispute, with last four being held after Dai resigned in 2013. The 19th round of talk was held in Beijing last year between India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and China's State Councillor Yang Jiech.
The Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin issues supposedly figured in each round of these talks, but apparently have made little progress over both the tricky border issues. India stakes claim over the 38,000 sq km territory in Aksai Chin region, while China considers nearly 38,000 sq km in Arunachal Pradesh region to be part of Southern Tibet.
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Tagschina, China and India, China and India Border Dispute, Dai Bingguo, Tawang
(Photo : Getty Images.) While LeEco's management is tight-lipped over whether it is shutting down its operations in India, industry experts feel that the latest news about job cuts most certainly indicates an exit strategy.
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The embattled Chinese conglomerate LeEco has once again raised concerns over its declining business as the company begins to possibly wind up its business in the all-important Indian market. The once resurgent company announced that it is firing 85 percent of its Indian staff and is also allowing two of its top executives to resign.
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While LeEco's management is tight-lipped over whether it is shutting down its operations in India, industry experts feel that the latest news about job cuts most certainly indicates an exit strategy.
The world got a sniff about LeEco's troubled operation in November last year when it founder and billionaire Jia Yueting wrote an email to his employees that the company is heading towards a cash crunch situation. The founder made no bones about accepting the fact that his company made a mistake in aggressively expanding its business despite capital constrain.
Founded in 2004, the Beijing-based conglomerate over the years has fast expanded into different business including consumer electronics, automobiles, film, and even driverless car. The multinational company entered the lucrative Indian market in 2015 by launching a slew of electronic products. However, it entered the burgeoning Indian smartphone industry last year by launching three flagship smartphones.
But the Chinese company seems to have been faltered by its over-ambition as it failed to create a sustainable demand for its product in the Indian market. This despite the fact that its advertising budget over-exceeded that of Chinese rivals like OPPO and Vivo. By a rough estimate, the company was reportedly spending nearly 80 crore every month in running extensive advertisements campaigns.
The crack in LeEco's smartphone business first appeared in December after the company announced that it would stop selling its smartphones through offline stores. The news surely came as a dampener for the company's investors, who had already pressed the panic button after the news of cash crunch situation broke out.
Talking to an Indian newspaper, LeEco's India chief operating officer Alex Li accepted that the company is going through a tough time, but claimed that there is no exit strategy in place and the company very well intends to carry on with its Indian operation.
"All businesses need to be profitable to be sustainable. That has been the primary objective in taking certain measures," Li said on layoffs, but added that the number of layoffs being reported in the Indian media is incorrect.
Most industry analysts are taking Li's pep talks with a pinch of salt, claiming that the LeEco will most certainly exit the Indian business in a matter of few months.
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TagsLeeco, LeEco India, china, China and India
(Photo : MND) A Taiwanese Patriot PAC-3 SAM battery.
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China immediately responded to the Republic of China's (Taiwan) announcement yesterday of more naval and aerial patrols in the South China Sea by today sending its warships and warplanes to conduct warfare exercises in the disputed waters.
China's state-owned media revealed warships of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), and jet fighters, strategic bombers and other planes from the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) carried out joint drills at the Miyako Strait to the northeast of Taiwan and between the southern Japanese islands of Miyako and Okinawa.
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"This exercise is part of annual plans for the navy, is not aimed at a specific country or target, and accords with relevant international laws and norms," said China in a statement about the drill.
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said it monitored the joint drills, which took place outside the country's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).
China's quick response ratchets up a new war of wills against Taiwan, which is rapidly rearming and modernizing the Republic of China Armed Forces (ROCAF) out of concern China will make good its promise to invade Taiwan before 2020.
Taiwan yesterday said the Republic of China Navy (ROCN) will increase the number of its patrols of the disputed South China Sea, and will conduct more joint drills with the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF).
"Looking ahead at the transformation of China's strategy and its investment in new weapons equipment, our military will practice new reforms in our training," said Taiwan's defense minister, Feng Shih-kuan, in a report to the Legislative Yuan, the country's parliament.
"The navy, during its regular South China Sea patrols, will conduct joint training with the air force in protecting fishermen and supply transports, and in humanitarian rescue drills to expand the combat readiness of our sea and air patrols," according to Feng.
The MND said that because of the rapid increase in China's military spending, ROCAF will enhance its combat preparedness through innovations in military maneuvers and training; flexible deployment of military forces and expanded exchanges between its armed services.
The Air Defense Missile Command, previously under the MND, has been placed under the Republic of China Air Force Command to facilitate a more unified air defense strategy and to strengthen Taiwan's combined air-naval combat capability.
More worrying for China, however, is the deployment of the MIM-104F Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missile system to locations in eastern Taiwan where they can destroy more of its ballistic missiles.
PAC-3 batteries have been deployed to the Hualien and Taitung area of eastern Taiwan in response to changes in China's military strategy, said the MND.
Arguably the most advanced surface-to-air missile (SAM) system with an anti-ballistic missile capability, PAC-3 is dedicated almost entirely to shooting down anti-ballistic missiles. Due to miniaturization, a single canister can hold four PAC-3 missiles as against one PAC-2 missile per canister.
The PAC-3 missile is also more maneuverable than previous variants due to 180 tiny pulse solid propellant rocket motors mounted in the forebody of the missile.
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Tagschina, Republic of China, Taiwan, South China Sea, People's Liberation Army Navy, People's Liberation Army Air Force, Republic of China Armed Forces, MIM-104F Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missile system
(Photo : Bundeswehr) Men of the Deutsches Heer in Lithuania.
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Germany will keep troops of the "Deutsches Heer" (the German Army) in Lithuania indefinitely to stiffen the Lithuanian Land Force, which only has 8,000 active duty personnel, in the face of a continuing Russian build-up aimed at invading Lithuania and the two other Baltic States of Estonia and Latvia.
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German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel on March 2 slammed Russia's unwarranted military build-up along its borders with the Baltic States as irrational, emphasizing Germany will keep troops in the region for as long as needed.
"The military potential that the Russian Federation has built up here at the border is completely irrational in my view because there is zero threat emanating from these countries," said Gabriel.
Gabriel gave no further details about German military deployments, but said the German troops would remain "as long as needed" in the Lithuanian military base where they are currently billeted.
Gabriel visited 400 German soldiers stationed in Rukla, Lithuania. These men are part of a German-led battle group of 1,000 troops in Lithuania.
They will be joined this year by U.S.-led forces in Poland; British-led soldiers in Estonia and Canadian-led troops in Latvia.
NATO is expanding its presence in the Baltic States to levels unprecedented since the Cold War, a deployment triggered by Russia's annexation of Crimea in March 2014 and Russian support for Russian-backed separatists seeking to dismember Ukraine.
In early February, men of the Deutsches Heer began deploying to Lithuania as part of NATO's push to better defend the three Baltic States, which Russia will attack first should a new European War erupt.
The German infantry, which arrived Feb. 7, will form part of a 1,200-strong NATO multinational battalion that will also include French, Dutch and Belgian troops. NATO plans to deploy four of these multinational enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) battalion battle groups throughout the Baltic States.
Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite hailed the German battalion's arrival, and said the deployment emphasizes NATO strong unity.
"Never before has Lithuania hosted military forces of such size and integrity. It sends a very clear and important message to all that NATO stands strong and united," she said.
"NATO deterrence protects peace."
The United States in January began deploying the first contingent of a US. Army Brigade Combat Team to Poland. This entire unit will number over 3,500 well-trained troops of the U.S. Army 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, U.S. 4th Infantry Division (3-4 ABCT).
3-4 ABCT is one of the best trained frontline units in the U.S. Army. Over the next few months, 3,500 men of 3-4 ABCT; 87 M1A2SEPv2 Abrams main battle tanks (the latest version); 144 M2A3 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs), 18 M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzers and 2,500 other vehicles will be deployed to Poland.
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TagsGermany, Deutsches Heer, German Army, Lithuania, Russia, Baltic States, Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel, President Dalia Grybauskaite
(Photo : CAST) The completed Chinese Space Station.
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"Tianhe-1," the modular core module of the "Chinese Space Station" (CSS), will be orbited in 2018 as the first step towards assembling CSS, which will be the only one in space after the International Space Station (ISS) is retired in 2024.
Tianhe (Chinese for "Harmony of the Heavens") will be the payload aboard the new-generation Long March-5 heavyweight carrier rocket, said Bao Weimin, director with China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, and a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.
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Assembly of the core module has been completed and tests are currently under way, said Bao. This procedure will be followed by a series of launches for other components of the space station, including the six major components over the next four years or so.
The precursor to the CSS is Tiangong-1, China's first prototype space station. Tiangong-1 (Chinese for "Heavenly Palace") served as both a manned laboratory and an experimental test bed for orbital rendezvous and docking capabilities.
Tianhe-1 and Tiangong-3 will be components of the much larger Chinese Space Station, which will be parked in low Earth orbit like the ISS. CSS, however, will be one-sixth the mass of the ISS and half the size of the decommissioned Russian Mir Space Station.
CSS is expected to have a mass between 60 and 70 metric tons. It will be much smaller in size than the ISS, which spans 109 meters x 73 meters, and weighs 420 metric tons.
Bao claims CSS (also called the Chinese large modular space station) will function for "dozens of years." He also claims CSS was specially designed to withstand impacts from small pieces of space debris.
"For the big pieces (of space debris), we could conduct evasive maneuvers, and for those measuring less than 10 cm in size, we just take the hit," said Bao.
He said the next five years will see exciting advances in China's military-run space program.
Apart from Tianhe-1 and Tiangong-3, the other components of the CSS are:
* Wentian, or the Modular Space Station Experiment Module I. Wentian means "Quest for the Heavens."
* Mengtian, or the Modular Space Station Experiment Module II, Mengtian means "Dreaming of the Heavens."
* Tianzhou, or the cargo transport spacecraft. Tianzhou means "Heavenly Ship."
* Xuntian, an experimental module. Xuntian means "Heavenly Cruiser."
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TagsTianhe-1, Chinese Space Station, CSS, International Space Station, Bao Weimin, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, Tiangong-1
A congregation of Coptic Christians in New York City will soon start services in a church building that used to be home to a Catholic congregation.
The group of Coptic Christians will repurpose the Catholic church Our Lady of Peace on New York Citys Upper East Side, which was closed in 2015 when its current Catholic congregation merged with a nearby parish.
Copts are the largest Christian minority in Egypt, according to Christian Today. In recent months they have experienced increased persecution, including attacks from the Islamic State, previously reported on by ChristianHeadlines.com.
According to a letter from the Auxiliary Catholic Bishop to the Catholic congregation that used to meet in the church, Some months ago, Cardinal Dolan had the occasion to introduce the New York Egyptian Coptic Orthodox bishop, His Grace Bishop David, to the Holy Father, at which time they spoke about their dream to purchase Our Lady of Peace as their cathedral.
Pope Francis was delighted to learn that your parish, together with the archdiocese, was interested in assisting the Egyptian Coptic Orthodox Church, in this way, the letter continues. Both Pope Francis and Coptic Pope Tawadros II have reportedly approved the NYC Coptic congregation taking over the church building.
Publication date: March 3, 2017
Meet the first known dramatist of Christianity, the most famous female exegete of the nature of the Trinity, and the author of the earliest known autobiography in English.
Hrotsvit von Gandersheim
Christianitys first known playwright
Hrotsvit lived in the tenth century (9321002) as a canoness of the Imperial Saxon Abbey of Gandersheim (Germany). She can best be described by a catalogue of pioneering achievements: she is the first known dramatist of Christianity; the first Saxon poet; the first female Transalpine [north of the Alps] historian; and the author of the only extant Latin epics written by a woman.
According to her own testimony she objected to the great popularity of [Roman author] Terences plays, which depicted lascivious pagan women frolicking in the pleasures of the flesh. She wanted to compose dramas substituting the heroines of Christianity: beautiful, chaste virgins, firmly resisting the insidious advances of pagan men. To show frail Christian virgins triumph with Christs aid was her stated dramatic intent.
Hrotsvit is a polished stylist who doesnt lack a sense of humor, either. In one of her plays, Dulcitius, the protagonist is a pagan would-be executioner of three Christian virgins. He imprisons them close to the pantry so as to visit and seduce them secretly at night. As he enters the pantry, however, he is miraculously deluded and mistakes the dirty pots and pans for the girls. The scene is related by the girls, who peeping through the keyhole observe the foolish Dulcitius romancing kitchen utensils.
Hrotsvits works were rediscovered centuries later by a German scholar, who in 1501 made her texts available for posterity.
Julian of Norwich
Writer of solitary devotion to God
Julian of Norwich is perhaps the most famous female exegete of the nature of the Trinityparticularly of Christs mediating role between God ...
OCP Releases Mass of Restoration -- A New Mass Setting for Contemporary Liturgy
PORTLAND, Ore., March 3, 2017 /
The pair sought to create a setting that honors the history of music and the traditions of the Church that would still appeal to today's parishioner. "Knowing Josh's strengths as a musician and songwriter, we were excited to offer this setting to parishes. As expected from Josh and Grae, the result of their work is a singable, well-written and comprehensive setting for any congregation," explained Rick Modlin, manager of music development at OCP.
In talking about his approach to writing music, Josh explains, "I believe that God inhabits the praises of his people, and people are being moved by powerful refrains, repetitive bridges and intimate lyricsmuch in the way I'm sure 'Ode to Joy' affected assemblies when it was introduced as a hymn in the early 1900s."
The accompaniments include vocal harmonies and keyboard and guitar parts, making it accessible for many different ensembles. The MP3 album is all acousticand truly stunning. To offer a glimpse of the simple beauty of Mass of Restoration, Josh, Grae and their bandmates, Blake Powell and Christian Gaudet, have made a series of videos for each of the Mass parts. Watch them
Mass of Restoration is one of more than 60 new and revised Mass settings OCP has published since the implementation of the updated texts from The Roman Missal, Third Edition in November 2011. The settings range in style from traditional and chant to contemporary, multilingual and more. Learn more about
For more information or media requests, please contact Kelcee Marcum at
About OCP
OCP, a not-for-profit publisher of liturgical music and worship resources based in Portland, Oregon, has been in operation for more than 90 years. Worship programs produced by OCP are used in over two-thirds of Catholic churches in the United States and are distributed worldwide. Find OCP on Facebook at
Share Tweet Contact: Kelcee Marcum, OCP , 503-460-5358PORTLAND, Ore., March 3, 2017 / Christian Newswire / -- With five solo albums under his belt, Josh Blakesley is no longer a newcomer in the contemporary Catholic music world. This time around he joined forces with his guitarist Grae McCullough to bring us Mass of Restoration, a new Mass setting for contemporary liturgy that is joyful and approachable, yet fresh, dynamic and expressive.The pair sought to create a setting that honors the history of music and the traditions of the Church that would still appeal to today's parishioner. "Knowing Josh's strengths as a musician and songwriter, we were excited to offer this setting to parishes. As expected from Josh and Grae, the result of their work is a singable, well-written and comprehensive setting for any congregation," explained Rick Modlin, manager of music development at OCP.In talking about his approach to writing music, Josh explains, "I believe that God inhabits the praises of his people, and people are being moved by powerful refrains, repetitive bridges and intimate lyricsmuch in the way I'm sure 'Ode to Joy' affected assemblies when it was introduced as a hymn in the early 1900s."The accompaniments include vocal harmonies and keyboard and guitar parts, making it accessible for many different ensembles. The MP3 album is all acousticand truly stunning. To offer a glimpse of the simple beauty of Mass of Restoration, Josh, Grae and their bandmates, Blake Powell and Christian Gaudet, have made a series of videos for each of the Mass parts. Watch them here Mass of Restoration is one of more than 60 new and revised Mass settings OCP has published since the implementation of the updated texts from The Roman Missal, Third Edition in November 2011. The settings range in style from traditional and chant to contemporary, multilingual and more. Learn more about Mass of Restoration as well as OCP's other Mass settings at ocp.org/mass-settings For more information or media requests, please contact Kelcee Marcum at kelceem@ocp.org or 503.460.5358.About OCPOCP, a not-for-profit publisher of liturgical music and worship resources based in Portland, Oregon, has been in operation for more than 90 years. Worship programs produced by OCP are used in over two-thirds of Catholic churches in the United States and are distributed worldwide. Find OCP on Facebook at Facebook.com/OCPmusic
China Aid Releases 2016 Annual Persecution Report
Contact: ChinaAid Media Team, 432-553-1080 cell, 432-689-6985, media@chinaaid.org
MIDLAND, Texas, March 3, 2017 /Christian Newswire/ -- China Aid has released its 2016 Annual Persecution Report, detailing a seismic shift in the Chinese government's approach to religious policy which is expected to lead to further persecution.
The report's core subject tracks a deviation in the Chinese government's ideological approach to religious management. During the National Conference of Religious Work, held in April 2016, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of religions "persistently following the path of Sinicization," and subordinate government departments adopted the policy as a catalyst for many persecution attempts. Previously, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) focused its efforts on encouraging religions and socialism to mutually adapt, which was introduced by former President Jiang Zemin.
Despite China's insistence that Sinicization is an integral ingredient in the harmonization between church and state, the policy pivots on the government's assumption that other countries are using foreign-based religions to undermine their authority. Therefore, actions carried out under this mantra target the activities of religious institutions and subject them to government oversight, effectively trimming pre-existing religious practices to fit the agenda of the CCP. This forces religious practitioners, especially Christians, to choose between comprising their deeply-held beliefs and risking being treated as violators of the law.
In an attempt to implement this Sinicization, local government departments across the country drafted and carried out work plans that took aim at house churches. Often, these departments ruled to identify unregistered house churches and coerce them to join the government-monitored Three-Self Patriotic Movement by threatening them with forced closure.
In addition to these attempts to tailor Christianity, China continued to persecute individual Christians at a frequency unseen since the Cultural Revolution. Comparing statistics gathered in 2015, China Aid discovered consistent increases across six different categories of persecution in 2016. These include: number of persecution cases (up 20.2 percent), number of people detained (up 147.6 percent), the number of people arrested (up 11 percent), the number of people sentenced (up 30 percent), the number of abuse cases (up 42.6 percent), and the number of people abused (up 69.5 percent).
This data illustrates China's alarming regression into a more Maoist regime, and conditions are expected to worsen this year as the Revised Regulations on Religious Affairs goes into effect nationwide. These new regulations seek to further limit religious activity and indicate a catastrophic potential to place more Christians behind bars.
"The key findings of what happened last year and the reports from these first two months of 2017 have shown the situation of religious freedom is rapidly deteriorating," said Bob Fu, founder and president of China Aid. "We call upon both the persecuted faithful in China and the international community to be increasingly vigilant and persevere in facing this harsher year. China Aid will continue to walk closer with the persecuted and oppressed faithful in China by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused, and equipping the leaders."
The full English version of the 2016 Annual Persecution Report can be read here. While China Aid hopes that someday religious freedom will be available to all, the majority of the reports we receive spotlight the persecution of Christians. As such, the report focuses on the CCP's persecution of Christians and should be read as a sampling of a much more widespread endemic of oppression, rather than a comprehensive analysis.
China Aid writes the Annual Persecution Reports in order to expose China's horrific treatment of people who believe differently from the state, stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians, and promote religious freedom, human rights, and rule of law for all.
Birmingham Council Under Fire For Challenging Christian School's Ban Of Islamic Headscarf
A British city council has been caught in controversy after its equality chief challenged the ruling of a Christian school to stop a 4-year old girl from wearing an Islamic headscarf at school.
Equality chief Waseem Zaffar of Birmingham City Council, attempted to overturn a decision by St Clare's Catholic School in Handsworth Wood, The Telegraph reports.
Zaffar said that the school's uniform policy, which disallowed young children to wear headwear, was in conflict with the UK's Equalities Act, and insisted on 'a change of policy'.
Dame Louise Casey, a government official leading integration efforts, said she was 'very concerned' by Zaffar's intervention, which she regarded as 'grossly unfair and undue'. Dame Louise asked whether 'sufficient lessons' had been learned from the 'Trojan Horse' controversy that occurred three years prior.
The 'Trojan Horse' scandal centred on the alleged targeting of Birmingham schools by hard-line Islamists seeking to provoke a conservative ideology. Ofsted, the leading regulatory authority for British schools, said that it had evidence that 21 schools in the city were under threat, and that head teachers were being 'marginalised' by extremists trying to influence the education system.
Ofsted's chief, Sir Michael Wilshaw accused Birmingham City Council of a 'serious failure' to regulate and protect the city's schools and its children. The council was subsequently placed under constant review by the government.
St Clare's states on its website that 'hats or scarves are not allowed to be worn in school', which it says includes headscarves.
Shaista Gohir of the Muslim Women's Network UK, which promotes equality for Muslim women, told the BBC: 'The school is allowed to set its uniform policy and schools do have to be mindful and inclusive and cohesive and make sure that they don't breach their duties under the Equality Act.
'But they haven't done anything wrong because there is no Islamic requirement for a four-year-old to be wearing a headscarf.'
Dame Louise said she questioned the 'wisdom and legitimacy' of Zaffar's actions, writing to Birmingham city council leader John Clancy, and also emphasised that Islam makes places no obligation on young children to wear headscarves.
She asked Clancy: 'Why councillor Zaffar thought that his actions were an appropriate use of his office? What action the council leadership has taken to address this? And why you think this won't happen again?
'I found it was women and children who were the targets of these kinds regressive acts.'
Birmingham City council said it has responded to Dame Louise's letter privately.
Church Stance On Gay Marriage 'Increasingly Untenable' For An Established Church, Say MPs
MPs are branding the established Church's status on sexuality 'untenable', 'unfair' and 'hard to justify' as they piled on pressure for a change.
Labour's Ben Bradshaw and Chris Bryant and Tory MP Robert Jenrick all voiced their concern after a bishops' report on sexuality was rejected by the Church of England's ruling body.
The report kept a conservative line on gay marriage and was criticised by members of the general synod for its tone towards LGBT people.
Ben Bradshaw, Labour MP for Exeter, who is Anglican and in a gay relationship, said: 'Is it not increasingly untenable for our Church, which enjoys significant privileges in this country because of its established status, to continue to discriminate against its own members simply because they happen to be gay?'
Robert Jenrick, Conservative MP for Newark, raised the case of Canon Jeremy Pemberton, a constituent of his, who was barred from taking a role as a priest because he entered a gay marriage.
In questions to the Church commissioners' questions, he said: 'Does my right honourable friend accept that allowing each bishop discretion in how to handle these, admittedly, complex issues is creating unfairness and variances that are quite hard to justify?'
Chris Bryant, a former Anglican priest who quit in protest over its stance on sexuality, raised Jeffrey John being blocked from being a bishop in the Church in Wales, which Christian Today revealed last week.
'The other bishops have refused to do what they have done in every other caseaccept what the members of the local diocese have wanted,' he said.
Responding to the criticism Dame Caroline Spelman, second Church estates commissioner, said the Archbishops of Canterbury and York had released a 'statement committing them to find a way forward'.
She added a new bishops' oversight group will 'work on how to be as generous as possible to welcome all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people into the Church'.
She said: 'Changes have taken place and more need to happen.'
The report was rejected by the clergy on general synod by 100 votes to 93. Although the majority of the opposition was from the liberal wing, some conservatives also voted against it over concerns the 'maximum freedoms' offered to gay clergy would cause confusion.
Andrea Williams, chief executive of Christian Concern and a member of synod said the result should not be seen as a victory for LGBT activists. She was one of a handful of conservative members who voted against the report fearing it would lead to blessings for gay couples.
'What was clear from the debate was that the report tries to straddle positions that cannot be reconciled,' she said.
Coptic Christians In New York Begin Services In Disused Catholic Church
A redundant Roman Catholic church building in New York is set to be brought back to life by a congregation of Coptic Christians.
Our Lady Of Peace, on the Upper East Side, was effectively closed in 2015. IThe existing congregation was merged with a nearby parish and, although some worshippers petitioned to keep the building open as a Roman Catholic church, it will host Coptic services from this Sunday.
Copts are the largest Christian minority in the Midde East and are mainly based I Egypt. They are vulnerable to persecution there and recent years have seen many violent attacks.
There are already Coptic churches in New York, but with a significant Egyptian population in the city, the new congregation will meet from this week.
It's even reported that the building could become a Coptic Cathedral. A letter from the Auxiliary Catholic Bishop to the existing parishoners said, 'Some months ago, Cardinal Dolan had the occasion to introduce the New York Egyptian Coptic Orthodox bishop, His Grace Bishop David, to the Holy Father, at which time they spoke about their dream to purchase Our Lady of Peace as their cathedral.'
The letter carries on, 'Pope Francis was delighted to learn that your parish, together with the archdiocese, was interested in assisting the Egyptian Coptic Orthodox Church, in this way.' It also suggests that Coptic Pope Tawadros II has spoken with Pope Francis about the church, 'both popes have given their blessings,' it reads.
Fears For Abducted Malaysian Pastor After Son Says He May Have Been Murdered
Fears are growing for a Malaysian pastor who has been missing for almost three weeks. Raymond Koh Keng Joo, 62, was abducted by masked men on 13 February.
Now, his son has filed a report with police on the suspicion he has been murdered, according to reports from Free Malaysia Today.
Jonathan Koh says he's reached the disturbing conclusion on the basis that the family hasn't received a ransom demand, and there is very little information about his father's whereabouts or condition.
Malaysia is a majority Muslim country and there have been periodic attacks on Christians. World Watch Monitor reports that, 'in 2011, Mr. Koh was questioned after being accused by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department of trying to convert Muslims to Christianity, following a raid on a fundraising dinner at the Damansara Utama Methodist Church. That case was eventually dropped due to a lack of evidence.'
The pastor's wife is also quoted appealing for her husband's captors to give some information. 'I don't know what is happening. I appeal to whoever has taken him not to harm him,' she said. 'He is a good husband, father and pastor, who helps the poor.'
Thousands have signed an online petition calling for more to be done to locate the missing church leader.
God's Plan: To Console Wife Of U.S. Soldier, God Sent Her A Friend Before He Was Killed In Combat
God was already at work to ease her sorrow even before her soldier husband died in combat.
Carryn Owenswho was the guest during U.S. President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of Congress in Washington D.C. on Feb. 28had no idea that she was about to become a widow when a neighbour named Dana came knocking on her door to offer her friendship.
According to Pastor Dan Backens of New Life Church in Virginia Beach, as reported by CBN News, God made it happen for Dana to have the urge to initiate friendship with her neighbour Carryn.
"Here's a mother with children and a busy life, and she says 'OK, I'm gonna start loving a neighbour intentionally," Backens said in his recent sermon.
At that time, Dana had no inkling that Carryn would become a widow with the death of her U.S. Navy Seals husband in a military mission. But God knew it beforehand because that was part of His plan, Backens said.
Although Carryn has lost Ryan, her husband, "she has a friend now, and this friend has a church," the pastor said.
Backens reminded Christians that they would never know how God would want to use them when they reach out to others with the love of Christ, CBN News said.
During his Congress speech, President Trump paid tribute to Ryan Owens, who was killed during a U.S. commando raid on an al-Qaeda stronghold in Yemen on Jan. 29the first U.S. combat mission authorised by Trump.
Trump made mention of the biblical verse John 15:13, saying, "For as the Bible teaches us, there is no greater active love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. Ryan laid down his life for his friends, for his country, and for our freedom."
Just a day after Ryan was killed, Trump personally called Carryn to express his condolences and to invite her and her three children to visit him at the White House, The Washington Post reported. Trump was just 10 days in office at that time.
"By the way," Trump told Owens, according to the White House, "I'm going to be giving this speech in February. If you feel comfortable, I would love to have you as a guest."
Owens accepted the invitation. She and her children visited the White House on Feb. 28 and met privately with Trump and some of his senior aides.
'He Lived To Save Others': The Legacy Of Dawson Trotman And The Navigators
Today marks the anniversary of the founding of The Navigators, now a discipleship charity known for its student ministry but originally begun as a mission to sailors by a man named Dawson Trotman. Who was he, and why does he matter?
Dawson Trotman, known to friends as 'Daws' became a Christian at 18, and was soon inspired to share the good news he had learned with others. On March 3, 1933 Trotman began The Navigators, through which he and his friends reached out to sailors in the US military. Trotman was inspired by the principle of sharing life 1-1 with another, and through this relational model, sharing the gospel with many.
He taught a sailor called Les Spencer about Jesus, spending many hours studying the Bible, praying, and memorising Scripture. Spencer's life was changed, and when a fellow sailor asked him what had happened, Spencer brought him to Trotman.
'Teach him what you taught me,' Spencer said.
Trotman responded: 'You teach him!'
This vision of teaching people to teach others, echoing the call of Jesus' Great Commission and Paul's in 2 Timothy 2.2, is sometimes called 'passing on the baton'. It begins with one, but it can ultimately reach out to many. Spencer taught his sailor friend about Jesus, and eventually 125 sailors on the U.S.S. West Virginia had come to know Christ.
Dawson's mission began with one sailor, but he began a movement which spread across the Navy, and the rest of the military, so that by the end of World War Two thousands of men had caught the vision of 'spiritual multiplication' through 'life on life' discipleship. It is an approach that The Navigators maintain to this day.
Another iconic legacy of Trotman's is that of memorising verses of Scripture, with a focus on particular themes around Christian living. The 'Topical Memory System' is a popular tool of The Navigators born out of that spirit, and has helped many over the decades to store vast amounts of God's word in their minds, and share it with others.
Trotman also became close friends with the legendary evangelist Billy Graham, who enlisted Trotman's help in providing discipleship and Bible teaching for the many converted at Graham's famous crusades.
Today, The Navigators have come a long way since their beginning on the U.S.S. West Virginia. The Navigators began a pioneering mission to China in 1949, and now have ministries in over 100 countries all over the world. They serve many in different stages and walks of life, encouraging them to know the depth of life with God and to share it with others in a profound way.
In June 1956, Dawson went boating with some friends. One girl on the boat was unable to swim, and a wave threw Dawson and the girl overboard. Dawson saved the girl, but he himself drowned.
Billy Graham would preach at Dawson's funeral, where he mourned the loss of his friend who 'had personally touched more lives than anyone I have ever known'. As Graham said, in life and death, Dawson 'lived to save others'.
ISIS Tells Militants Cannibalism Of Non-Muslims Is OK, Instructs Them How To Cook And Eat Human Remains
It turns out that the Islamic State (ISIS) is not only a group composed of ruthless killers and savages but also of monstrous cannibals.
In a shocking revelation, an ISIS handbook has been discovered justifying and teaching cannibalism among the group's members, British media reported.
The document was found in one of the terrorist group's training centres and presented to the media by the Quilliam Foundation, a counter-extremist think tank founded by three former members of the Hizb ut-Tahrir radical Islamist group.
The handbook tells aspiring militants that Islam approves of killing captive non-Muslims and feasting on their remains should food become scarce, according to The Daily Mail.
The guidebook even provides details on the parts of the body that can be eaten and how these body parts should be prepared and cooked.
"We have found the curriculum that Islamic State use to indoctrinate fighters and the indigenous population in areas under their control," Quilliam CEO Haras Rafiq told The Daily Record. "There are all sorts of things in there, but one of the most horrific is a section on cannibalism which they are teaching in classrooms."
Rafiq said ISIS militants are being told that if they can't find food during a time of jihad, "it is OK to kill another non-Muslim or a Muslim who doesn't follow their version of Islam."
Rafiq said as a Muslim he finds no justification for cannibalism, which he called "revolting."
"These views on cannibalism are not mainstream but they are gaining traction," Rafiq said.
This is not the first time that ISIS has been linked to cannibalism. There have been reports on ISIS militants cooking the remains of non-Muslim captives they butchered and feeding them to the victims' family members.
In October 2015, ISIS militants reportedly fed a detained and starving Yazidi mother the meat of her very own three-year old boy whom she had not seen since being kidnapped by the militants some months back.
After being locked up in an ISIS cell for two days without food, the woman begged to be fed. The militants obliged, giving her a plate of rice with meat. But after she finished eating, to her utter horror the militants told her that what she had just eaten was the meat of her own son.
A Kurdish mother also had a similar experience when she went to the ISIS headquarters in Mosul, Iraq in March 2015 to beg for the release of her detained son, who was a Kurdish soldier.
The ISIS militants pretended to be gracious hosts, telling her to sit down and even served her a meal of cooked meat, soup, and rice.
After she finished the meal, she demanded to see her son. The militants reportedly burst into laughter, saying they had murdered her son and chopped him into pieces. "You've just eaten him," they told her.
Jesus Image Miraculously Survives ISIS Destruction Of Orthodox Church In Mosul
Jesus Christ is in Mosul, and the Islamic State (ISIS) is powerless to stop Him.
This impression was made when a team of humanitarian aid workers found something extraordinary inside an Orthodox church destroyed by ISIS militants in a liberated area in downtown Mosul, Iraq.
In an inspiring video posted on his group's website, Matt Willingham of Preemptive Love can be seen walking through the ruins of a church bombed by ISIS.
"I'm in a destroyed orthodox Church in downtown Mosul," Willingham begins his video annotation. "I wanted just to take a minute to show you the destruction. You can see the chandeliers are just blown to bits, you can see the ISIS flag up here. I mean, it's terrible."
A huge crater possibly caused by a mortar blast can be seen where the altar used to be.
But amid the gloom, Waleed, a Muslim member of Willingham's team, spotted something extraordinary. "As my friend and I were walking, he called me over and he said, "Hey, come look at this. And he pointed up, and we looked up and got to see this."
The camera then focuses on the ceiling where a beautiful image of Jesus can be seen, miraculously undamaged.
On his blog, Willingham says he stood silently and wept when he saw the image.
"It was just one of those moments where despite all that's around us, all the negativity and destruction. That little moment just caught my breath. Just this beautiful little glimpse of Christ, of hope.. it just keeps you going," Willingham says.
"That beautiful, bright image had hit my heart like mortar. It had been such a difficult day, and then... a little hope," he says.
Hope continues to burn brighter in Mosul as Iraqi forces continue to push their way into the heart of the ISIS-occupied city.
However, amid the ongoing offensive, more refugees from the western part of the city have fled and reached safer grounds. The Iraqi government has announced that as of Friday, the number of refugees has reached more than 31.000 as battles intensify between ISIS militants and Iraqi troops, Iraqi News reported.
The United Nations earlier warned that at least 250.000 could be displaced due to battles in western Mosul, which could lead to severe medical and food supply shortages in areas still under ISIS occupation.
Senators Call For $20m Funding For Faith Based Centres Following Spike In Bomb Threats
Two US Senators are calling for Congress to invest $20 million in security for Jewish and other faith-based community centres, following recent terror threats.
Jewish community centres (JCCs) across the US have enhanced their security after bomb threats have spike against the faith community.
Two Senators are now calling for assistance for these JCCs, and other vulnerable faith groups, putting forward a bill that would grant $20 million to improve their security, RNS reports.
The funds would come through the Department of Homeland Security's grant programme, known as the Faith-Based Community Center Protection Act.
'This legislation would help ensure that community centers like the JCC's have the added protection they need and can focus on serving the community, while the FBI and our Justice Department track down those responsible,' Democrat Senator Martin Heinrich said in a statement. Heinrich co-filed the bill with Republican Senator Dean Heller on Monday.
Over 100 bomb threats have been reported at Jewish communities across the US since Jan 9. Most of these (77) were made to JCCs in various states across the country. The JCC association reported 21 bomb threats against day schools and JCCs on Monday.
So far no explosives have been found. Investigations by the FBI and Homeland Security are ongoing.
The funds are for community centres, not houses of worship such as synagogues, mosques or churches, though attacks on such buildings have also increased. At a Jewish cemetery in Philadelphia, 100 headstones were toppled, Police said on Sunday, following the vandalism of a Jewish cemetery in St Louis the week before.
Some Jewish groups have said the rise in violence and terror threats is a sign that anti-semitic groups have been empowered by the election of President Trump. Trump rose to power with the support of some prominent white supremacists, though he disavowed them.
On Monday, White House press secretary Sean Spicer addressed the rise in attacks, saying they contradicted America's founding principles.
'The president continues to condemn these and any other forms of anti-Semitic and hateful acts in the strongest terms,' he told reporters.
Additional reporting by Reuters
Talk About Jesus, Not About How The Archbishop Voted On Brexit, Bishop Tells Christians
The Bishop of Durham is urging Christians to talk about Jesus, not about Brexit.
He also suggested that anyone hoping to evangelise new Christians should avoid talking about the Church of England.
He was one of up to 25 bishops, including the Archbishop of York, in Durham for a four-day evangelism event, 'Talking Jesus'. They are examining a series of 450 outreach programmes ranging from abseiling to coffee mornings.
Rt Rev Paul Butler, one of the Church of England's top five bishops, warned hundreds to resist talking about the institutional church at a launch event in Durham Cathedral on Thursday.
'Avoid wherever possible talking about the Church or however the Archbishop voted [on Brexit],' he said. 'Let's keep to talking about Jesus.'
He told Christian Today: 'I think there is a danger that we get wrapped up in institutional conversations. Whereas the heart of what we are about is we are followers of Jesus. It is God's kingdom. Jesus is the Lord and Saviour. Not the Church.'
He said: 'We have unashamedly entitled the four days Talking Jesus. We want to make Jesus the topic of conversation and thought. We want to get people thinking about Jesus. We have opportunities galore to meet people face to face. Our focus throughout is to share Jesus.'
The Church of England has seen a year on year decline in regular attendance over the past decades with less than one million people going to church on a weekly basis.
With attendance across Durham's parishes at less than one per cent of the population Butler admitted the task can seem daunting.
'I think people are nervous. They are worried people will ask them questions they don't know the answer to when actually people want to hear the story,' he told Christian Today afterwards.
'Day to day it is about living the lifestyle of Jesus in our places of work and communities, praying for people and taking the opportunities to talk about Jesus when they can.'
The Archbishop of York and his team will join hundreds of other churchgoers, clergy and bishops in teaming up with local parishes for the weekend.
'If people in the United Kingdom talked more about Jesus than they talked about weather we might get some traction,' he told Christian Today. 'For me the greatest thing is that in Jesus Christ God invites us to be his friend, invites us to get to know him to get to love him.'
'The Shack' Star Octavia Spencer Defends Film From Critics, Says It 'Dispenses With Conventional Images Of God'
"The Shack" has drawn controversy because of its unusual depiction of the Holy Trinity. In the book-turned-movie written by William Paul Young, God is personified by an African American woman named Papa, Jesus as a Middle Estern man, while the Holy Spirit is depicted as a mysterious Asian woman named Sarayu.
Octavia Spencer, who stars in the film as Papa, knows a lot of evangelicals have been criticising the film and calling it heretical. But personally, she sees nothing wrong with it and even finds it inspiring how people of different races were put together to represent faith.
"I love the way the Holy Trinity is presented in 'The Shack.' It represents a very diverse group of people, which is what the world is," she told The Christian Post. "So it's quite refreshing that the Holy Spirit is this beautiful Asian woman, who feels like a breath of fresh air in real life. And Jesus is an amazing Israeli actor. And then you have myself, as God, and what I like about that presentation is it sort of dispenses with the conventional images of God and what we have in our minds as God."
Spencer said she grew up in Montgomery, Alabama, so it was impossible to grow up without a church background. "Where I'm from, you learned about God before you learned to read and write. Our faith is what grounds us," she shared.
The actress carried her faith even when she made it big in Hollywood where she confessed her faith is now being tested daily. When she took on "The Shack," she learned to understand true forgiveness and how a lack of it can negatively impact one's life. Because of the movie, Spencer can honestly say that she is now closer to God.
As for Sam Worthington, who stars in the movie as Mack, a grieving father, he told Metro that people can learn a lot about forgiveness from the Bible, and "The Shack" can give viewers a deeper understanding of it.
"The Bible is like a guideline for how to live a better life. The idea of 'The Shack' is learning to forgive others and that the healing process is going to take time. It doesn't happen automatically," he shared. "It's very hard to forgive people who have done you wrong, but here's some steps you can take."
"The Shack" opens in movie theatres in the U.S. on March 3, 2017.
Top UK Major General Who Is A Christian Praises Donald Trump's Defence Team
The most senior British officer behind the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq believes the security, defence and foreign policy team around President Donald Trump is 'potentially more competent all round' than in the previous two US administrations.
Major General Tim Cross, who is retired but is still a defence adviser to the British Government, also accused the British Government of overlooking displaced Iraqi Christians and other minorities, many of whom have been singled out for persecution since the invasion, by channelling aid through Muslim-run organisations.
He said that in meetings with officials from the Foreign Office (FCO) and the Department for International Development (DfID), they 'didn't really want to engage with' with the issue.
Speaking about the Trump administration's new team, he described US Defence Secretary James Mattis as 'a thinking man', able to influence the new president.
A practising Anglican Christian, Cross told Christian Today that Lieutenant General HR Mc Master, the National Security Adviser, who like Cross fought in the First Gulf War, is 'a very good battlefield commander, and a great thinker; he understands that there is this relationship with soft and hard power you don't just bomb people into submission.'
Mattis has said he favours an 'accelerated campaign' against Islamic State.
McMaster is believed to support a more assertive policy in Syria.
The trio of Mattis, McMaster and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson together made a 'pretty good' team, said Cross.
'It's a return to a more traditional concept of American power and how it's used a preparedness to engage and lead.'
Regarding the now under-review Executive Order barring citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries, Cross defended Trump for saying the ban was in place 'until we understand what's going on here', saying that in 2003 he and the other planners of the invasion had not sufficiently understood what was going on.
Asked whether he believed Trump's pledge to increase military spending by $54 billion was a responsible use of resources, he quoted John McCain, the Republican chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who argued that this was only a 3 per cent increase compared to spending in the most recent fiscal year, and that the US military was 'underfunded, undersized, and unready to confront threats to our national security'.
Cross said Barack Obama's foreign policy had allowed Russia's influence in the Middle East to increase, for example by not engaging militarily, even after it emerged that President Bashar al-Assad had used chemical weapons against his own people.
He said: 'If you look back at Obama's foreign policy over the years, it wasn't that successful. He's the guy who drew lines in the sand and then didn't do anything about it [when they were crossed]; he's the guy who allowed the void to develop for the Russians to step into.'
He added: 'Putin is not interested in Assad per se, but in maintaining his air and naval bases and exerting influence in the Mediterranean and the region.'
Regarding the Bush administration that drove the 2003 invasion, Cross described the attitude of Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld and senior officials around him as 'very naive'.
Cross, who has publicly criticised the inadequacy of the pre-invasion planning, said: 'Rumsfeld's plan was, "We don't need a plan.' He added that Rumsfeld acted on popular post-9/11 feeling in America to 'do something about these brutal dictators', and assumed Iraqis would be grateful for the removal of Saddam Hussein and 'crack on' with creating their own country. 'There was no plan B, there was no plan C,' he said.
As for now, Cross said it was important that Britain maintained an ability to exert influence in Iraq, such as through providing military training, to prevent an increase in Iranian and Russian influence there. He warned against allowing the country's disintegration, which could further destabilise the region's Sunni-Shia power balance.
Cross was also critical of the UK's engagement with its ally Saudi Arabia, arguing that it should put more pressure on Riyadh to win hearts and minds in Yemen rather than only dropping bombs to quash the Shia-led post-coup government there. Overall, he said, 'I don't think we really understand what it is that we want to do in the region to keep the [Sunni-Shia] power balance in check in a way that's beneficial to us.'
Cross lamented persistent religious illiteracy at the FCO and DfID, where he said an official told him four years ago that Iraq's Yezidi community were Christians, and therefore believed that by aiding Yezidis they had helped Christians. While he said he agreed with the position of the previous Prime Minister, David Cameron that Middle Eastern Christians should be helped to return home rather than resettle outside the Middle East he said the British Government needed to acknowledge many were concluding they would never feel able to return. Accepting '50,500 or 5,000' as refugees would not solve the problem of Christians' vulnerability in the region, he said, but Middle Eastern governments such as Iraq's needed to be challenged on the extent to which they were protecting their vulnerable minorities populations.
Abigail Frymann Rouch is a freelance journalist specialising in religious affairs and the Middle East. In her recent MA in Middle Eastern Studies, she focused on the plight of Iraqi minorities since the 2003 invasion.
Find her on Twitter @abigailfrymann
10 things to know about Peter Doig
Ben Luke surveys the influential oeuvre of the Trinidad-based painters painter, including two works offered in our Post-War and Contemporary Art Evening Auction in March 2017
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He is a man of many nations Born in Edinburgh in 1959, Doig moved to Trinidad as a baby, yet grew up mostly in Canada. He studied in London, first in the early 1980s and again at the end of that decade, sandwiching a few years spent in Montreal. After his second bout of study in London, he settled there for many years, before moving back to Trinidad in 2002. Today, he lives between the Caribbean island, London and New York, and teaches in Dusseldorf. The constant movement has marked his painting. My thinking is always between places, he said recently. Something I would like to achieve in my paintings is a place in between places.
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His early work, once hidden, has been reappraised Doigs 2008 retrospective at Tate Britain began with Hitch Hiker (1989-90), and his earlier paintings expressive and dramatically coloured were ignored. But a show at Michael Werner gallery in London in 2014 revealed these fascinating works, showing Doigs journey to his mature work. Many were significantly more urban than the landscape-based images for which he became renowned from the 1990s. They reflected the metropolitan inspirations that formed the young artist. Doig has described vivid memories of the London club scene in the early 1980s, for example, and the architecture of New York in particular had a huge effect on his early artistic development.
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His original language grew out of paintings of homely subjects On his MA at Chelsea, Doig said that he made quite homely paintings, paintings of quite modest subjects. But this folkish subject matter, and the dense, intense approach Doig took to painting it, led to an original language that gained him attention: he won the Whitechapel Artists Award in 1991, and for the resulting show he made some of the works that became emblematic of his art.
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Within the tumult of British art in the 1990s, he was not a bandwagon chaser Doig began to gain recognition in London just as the citys art world was being engulfed by the energetic scene triggered by Damien Hirsts 1988 Freeze exhibition, and dominated by work inspired by minimalism, Neo-Geo and conceptualism. Doig ignored the zeitgeist, yet achieved success when many other painters felt excluded. I really enjoyed being a painter then, actually, he said in 2013. And I think you can see I enjoyed it, too, in the work that I was making. I dont think I was chasing anything, I definitely wasnt a bandwagon chaser. I think thats a big mistake for artists to try to chase something and want to be part of something.
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Buildings in landscapes defined his classic period
Among the works that he produced for the 1991 Whitechapel exhibition was The Architects Home in the Ravine (1991), a vision of the architect Eberhard Zeidlers modernist home in Rosedale near Toronto. Doig had visited the house and taken photographs of it, but this was not a mimetic painting: it captured, in thrillingly lively paint, the experience and atmosphere of Doigs visit. Christies sold the painting at auction in 2013 for 7.65 million, and then again in 2016 for 11.28 million. Architecture glimpsed through trees was also the subject of a seminal group of works, the Concrete Cabin paintings, made in response to Le Corbusiers housing complex the Unite dHabitation at Briey-en-Foret in northern France, between 1991 and 1996. Cabin Essence (1993-94), a work from that series, sold at Christies in London for 9.6 million in 2015.
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Doig is a great painter of snow, which he maintains draws you inwards I often paint scenes with snow because snow somehow has this effect of drawing you inwards, Doig said in 1994. In numerous works made around that time, Doig created hermetic snowy worlds partly inspired by memories of his time in Canada which hover poetically between abstraction and figuration and find the artist at his most virtuosic in mixing atmosphere and subject. They fuse the found image, perhaps in the form of a photograph he has taken or seen, and the poetic evocation of memory as those images are veiled or lost in paint. Cobourg 3 + 1 More (1994), offered in the Post-War and Contemporary Art Evening Auction in March 2017 at Christies London, is one of the most evocative of all the snow paintings: is this a landscape in a blizzard, with figures at the side of a lake in this rural Canadian landscape, or a memory, fading and fragmented by the white noise of time? It sold for 12,709,000.
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His work is largely drawn from a mixture of memory and photographic or still images The sources, however, can vary wildly, as can his treatment of them. Ski Jacket (1994) was based on a photograph he saw in a Toronto newspaper of a Japanese ski resort. For him, it evoked a black and white oriental scroll painting, but the diptych he produced transports the image into an entirely different realm by mirroring the scene and situating it in a field of veils, mists, drips and thick blobs. Blotter (1993), meanwhile, was based on a shot he took of his brother standing on a frozen pond that they had flooded to create more dramatic, reflective effects. Doigs use of photography goes in and out of focus, and since his move to Trinidad, the presence of the photographic image is less insistent. I dont see it being a big issue, the photographic side of the paintings, and I never really have. But its less important now to me than it was, he said in 2013. Maybe one day Ill abandon it altogether, but for the moment its still important.
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He periodically reworks and recycles images I dont think of myself, God forbid, as being a series painter, Doig once said. Yet he does return to images periodically. The most famous example is a still from a closing scene of the film Friday the 13th, featuring a figure slumping out of a canoe, an image which he used in paintings including Swamped (1990), which Christies sold for $25.925 million in 2015 (the artists auction record) and Canoe Lake (1997-98). His paintings made in Trinidad have similar echoes. The paintings Stag (2002-05) and Metropolitan (Stag) (2004) feature the same bearded, behatted figure holding on to a tree trunk. But in each case, Doig invests the canvas with entirely different light, colour, handling of paint, and mood. Metropolitan (Stag), which had been owned by Dinos Chapman and Tiphanie de Lussy, was offered at Christies London on 7 March 2017 and sold for 485,000.
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Trinidad has had a profound influence on his painting It took time for Trinidad to palpably enter Doigs painterly universe. But over time, certain shifts in his work have emerged. In works such as Pelican (2004) and Pelican Island (2006) sold at Christies in 2014, you see the results of Doigs kayak journeys around the island, often with fellow Trinidad-based painter Chris Ofili. His handling of paint has changed, too: thinner layers, more expansive abstract passages, greater risks taken with the finish of the painting a quality he much admires in Matisses work. But perhaps the biggest change is in the paintings light and colour, which has undoubtedly been affected by the Caribbean climate. He once said that in Trinidad, there are incredible contrasts of light, and extreme shadows as well.
10 Asian Art treasures with estimates under $10,000
From a 2,700-year-old bronze nomads dagger to a touching ink drawing of a young woman and her cat 10 gems that wont break the bank, offered during Asian Art Week in New York
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A bronze feline-form weight
This bronze feline-form weight would have been used to hold down the voluminous sleeve of a traditional robe, or as a paperweight. It has a heaviness that makes it really satisfying to hold in your hand, as does the softly rounded form of the cats body. Estimated at $2,000-3,000, it has great provenance, coming to Christies from The Falk Collection of Chinese art.
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A bronze dagger
This bronze dagger is well over two thousand years old, dating from the 7th-6th century BC. Despite its age, it remains in fantastic condition; the handle is intricately inlaid, and demonstrates the skill of the people who made it, in the region now referred to as Inner Mongolia. As nomads, they carried their wealth on their person, and the richest individuals would have owned everyday objects rich with embellishment. This dagger is both a luxury item and a tool for self-defence, and would have been worn in the owners belt.
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Hu Yongkai, Lady and Cat
While aspects of Hu Yongkais depictions of women include traditional elements, such as the furniture in this painting, the posture of his subjects, along with their clothing and demeanour, are modern and fresh. The colour and simplicity of this painting and the affectionate moment between a woman and her cat create an appealing and emotionally uplifting image.
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A gilt-bronze bear-form support fitting
This fun little piece would have been one of four bronze supports for a miniature table, and is cast in the form of a bear resting on its back legs, its mouth open in a powerful roar. Although it stands at just 2 in (5.1cm) high, its a piece with a big personality, and indicates the popularity of bear designs during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD), when this work was made.
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A small altered jade sword slide
Made during the late Eastern Zhou-Han Dynasty (3rd-1st century BC), this jade slide would have been fitted around a sword or dagger. Its a beautiful piece: the jade would have been green originally, but the ageing process has transformed it into an attractive ivory colour. Although it is very small measuring just an inch and a half, or nearly 4 centimetres, in length the carving on it remains precise and sharp to this day. At the time this work was made, jade would have been more valuable than gold, silver or bronze.
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A glass-inlaid gold and silver-decorated bronze belt hook
This curved belt hook would have been used to fasten a garment, and features a hook, cast in the form of a dragons head, which would have functioned much like a button on a pair of jeans. Cast in bronze, each of its sides is inlaid with silver and, remarkably, glass beads that have remained intact since it was made, between 475 BC and 8 AD, a period referred to as the Warring States-Western Han Dynasty.
7
A small mottled grey jade bird-form ornament
This beautiful ornament dates from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and depicts a bird of prey, its head turned to the side. Both the front and the back of the object are covered with rich carvings. This might have been worn by a woman, in her hair, or as part of a hat. A channel carved behind the folded legs and feet on the reverse of the piece, which is just 1 in (4.2 cm) high, forms an attachment loop.
8
An enamelled porcelain pouch-form snuff bottle
This porcelain snuff bottle (shown front and back, above) is a small treasure. Its form resembles that of a purse or a wallet from the Qing Dynasty, which would have been used for carrying money. Presenting an object such as this as a gift would symbolise your desire for the recipient to accumulate wealth. Each side prominently features a mythical beast, a bixie and a tianlu, which were believed to ward off evil and prevent wealth from dissipating.
9
Feng Chaoran, Listening to an Oriole
Estimated at $4,000-6,000, this exquisitely painted hanging scroll is taken from our 14 March Fine Chinese Paintings sale, and features fine, detailed brushwork. The artist has depicted a scholar walking through a windy landscape, his attention caught by the sound of two birds creating a scene that evokes a wonderful sense of calm and harmony with nature.
10
A silver and gold-inlaid bronze garment hook
Zeitz MOCAA: A game changer
To raise funds for the new Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, 14 artists have donated works to be offered in the Post-War and Contemporary Art Day Auction on 8 March in London
One of the most exciting and momentous events of the 2017 art calendar is set to take place in September, with the opening of the eagerly-awaited Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town. The 100,000-square-foot space on the V&A waterfront will comprise 80 galleries spread over nine floors, and is the biggest museum to open on the continent for more than 100 years. Christies will play a major part in the establishment of the new institution when it offers donated works by 14 artists in its Post-War and Contemporary Art Day Auction on 8 March. Proceeds from the sale including works by El Anatsui, Roger Ballen, Antony Gormley, Isaac Julien, Yinka Shonibare and Harland Miller will go towards Zeitz MOCAAs endowment to ensure the long-term sustainability of the museum.
Mark Coetzee, Executive Director and Chief Curator, comments, The extraordinary generosity of artists from around the world in donating funds to this fundraising auction will guarantee that we fulfill our mission for years to come. The design to house the museum in the citys historic Grain Silo a Cape Town landmark since 1921 has been undertaken by the innovative British architect Thomas Heatherwick. There was this building sitting like the elephant in Cape Towns room, he says, reflecting on the challenge of working on the most tubey building ever and turn[ing] that to your advantage.
The outside already had idiosyncrasy [but] we were in danger of losing the extraordinary cellular structure. So we took the idea of using just one of those billions of grains of corn, and scaling it up and using that as a tool to cut through. The resulting edifice promises to be an extraordinary home for the first major museum of contemporary art in Africa. We want to be a museum of the 21st century, so the collection is dedicated to everything from 2000 onwards, and it focuses on Africa and its diaspora, explains Mark Coetzee.
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This week mankind made strides in making air travel just a bit more tolerable.
On Thursday night Whataburger and Southwest Airlines were bragging about how they celebrated that holiest of Lone Star holidays, Texas Independence Day.
The burger chain and the airline teamed up to hand out free food to travelers getting off a plane at Dallas Love Field airport.
OF COURSE: Buzzfeed dubs Whataburger better than In-N-Out, Shake Shack
A Twitter user named Charlie tweeted the idea to both companies to see what would happen. Sometimes it doesn't hurt to ask.
"Yesterday Whataburger and Southwest Airlines teamed up on a fun surprise for some lucky passengers. Southwest Airlines tagged us in a customer's tweet, inviting us to partner to make a customer's idea happen by surprising fans with a meal on their flight," Whataburger VP of corporate communications said in a statement Friday.
"We were so excited to work together to provide a fresh, hot meal to brighten these customers' days. It's always fun to partner with other brands loved by our Texas fans, and it's even more fun when we're able to surprise and delight so many of our wonderful customers," she added.
SCORE!: Southwest Airlines to give employees $586 million in profit-share bonuses
There is a Whataburger in the Dallas airport, by the way, but this small act of kindness brought the food to the Southwest customers.
Now if only the two companies could somehow come to an agreement and serve burgers, fries, and other favorites on the plane itself.
Wait! What about a Southwest plane painted like a Whataburger restaurant? I have a tweet to send...
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President George W. Bush has been making the rounds on television to promote his new book,"Portraits of Courage."
Bush has painted ninety-eight impressionist-style portraits of wounded veterans for the book. The former commander-in-chief is donating all proceeds from the book to help veterans transition to civilian life.
The 43rd president has been remarkably candid with TV hosts who've been asking him questions about life after office and his new found talent for painting. Serious moments were shared during his TV interviews, but the former president also revealed some hilarious and intriguing tidbits about his life.
On Thursday, March 2, the former president appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Here's what we learned:
1. George W. Bush went on an arranged date with Tricia Nixon in 1969 while her father, Richard Nixon was president.
2. When he was 3 years old, Bush lived in Compton, Calif.
3. Bush exercised everyday during his presidency.
4. The former president took a photo of himself sitting in the bathtub.
5. Bush initially started painting dogs, and called himself a pet portrait painter.
6. Bush believes... "the best humor is when you make fun of yourself."
LOVE STORY: Barbara and George H. W. Bush's life together
Here's what we learned Wednesday, March 1, on Bush's visit to The Ellen DeGeneres Show:
1. Bush and Michelle Obama are BFFs; Bush hinted that he's closer to Mrs. Obama than the 44th president.
2. Not being able to put on a poncho runs in the family. His mother, Barbara Bush had the same trouble at one point.
3. Vladamir Putin dissed Bush's dog, Barney.
4. Bush described himself as agnostic on art until five years ago.
5. The 43rd president is the first to have to both parents living after his presidency.
George W. Bush might be out of politics, but we hope that he keeps painting beautiful portraits and visiting TV's funniest hosts.
Take a look at some of his artwork in the gallery above.
The search was continuing Thursday for a teenager reported missing from her home in west Houston, officials said.
The missing girl was identified as Stephanie Aguilera, 13.
She was last seen on Tuesday at her home in the 10000 block of Hazelhurst in the Shadow Oaks subdivision, authorities said.
Aguilera is 5-feet-3 and weighs 130 pounds. Houston police said she has brown hair and brown eyes but recently dyed her hair reddish pink.
Anyone with information about her disappearance is asked to contact the Houston Police Department's missing persons unit at 832-394-1816.
The Texas Medical Board on Friday placed a controversial Houston cancer doctor on probation and ordered him to pay $60,000 in fines and restitution for violating state medical rules.
Stanislaw Burzynski's lawyers celebrated the ruling, which spared the doctor from far more serious proposed sanctions. One of the attorneys, Greg Myers, told the Austin American-Statesman afterward that the decision "means he gets to continue to practice and save lives."
The ruling ends years of legal wrangling between the medical board and Burzynski, 73, whose cancer treatments are praised by some patients and criticized by many others who put their trust in Burzynski's unproven and controversial methods.
The ruling comes two years after the state filed a formal complaint against Burzynski an internist with no board certification or formal training in oncology and more than two decades after the federal government tried and failed to have the doctor imprisoned for improperly administering experimental drugs.
The drugs, known as antineoplastons, an unproven and controversial type of chemotherapy that Burzynski invented, were at the center of the state's case.
Lawyers for the state medical board spent weeks presenting evidence against Burzynski in 2015 and last spring in Austin, alleging that he had promoted his experimental therapy to patients, knowing he could not legally provide it to most of them. Instead, the board alleged, Burzynski gave them normal chemotherapy drugs in combinations that have not been scientifically tested, and whose toxicities posed an unnecessary danger to patients.
But for the most part, the three judges ruled, the state failed to prove its case. The judges found the doctor had inaccurately reported a patient's tumor measurements, leading to improper treatment; failed to properly supervise research assistants; failed to disclose his ownership interest in the pharmacies where he sent his patients; and failed to fully explain changes to a patient's treatment plan.
Myers, one of the attorneys who defended Burzynski, said he considered the ruling a major victory.
"When the state board filed this thing, it was a 202-page complaint," Myers said back in October. "They admitted into evidence close to 20,000 pages of records, and they made every allegation they could think of in a pretty clear attempt to strip Dr. Burzynski of his medical license. But the judges found the doctor complied with standards of care, and he prevailed in over 95 percent of these allegations."
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AUSTIN -- State lawmakers plan to unveil their plan to fix the state's beleaguered school funding formula Monday, setting the stage for a showdown between the House and Senate over how to fix the system and whether a school voucher program should be in the mix.
House Public Education Chairman Dan Huberty, R-Houston, said at an education symposium in Houston Friday he will unveil his plan for revising the school funding formula on Monday. He said his bill will specifically help school districts currently forced to give up local tax dollars to poorer school districts, like the Houston Independent School District, and charter schools.
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Gigi Hadid just made modeling history.
The 21-year-old American model, whose father is Palestinian, landed the cover of the first issue of Vogue Arabia.
Actually, the honor was two-fold, literally. Two covers were printed. A cover in English and one in Arabic show a stunning black and white photo of Hadid wearing a heavily and intricately beaded veil, with bare arms underneath.
The exquisite veil is strategically draped on the model's face to draw you into her enchanting eyes.
Editor-in-Chief, Deena Aljuhani Abdulaziz said this about their inaugural cover model; "In one poised photograph, she communicates a thousand words to a region that's been waiting far too long for its Vogue voice to speak...there's no better first 'face' to lead the charge for Vogue Arabia than Gigi, a model who defines tomorrow's entrepreneurial and dynamic generation."
(Story continues below:)
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Another photo shows the model dressed in a purple and hot pink hijab with matching eye shadow and lipstick.
Gigi shared her thoughts about the cover on her Instagram, "I think the beautiful thing about there being international Vogue's is that, as a fashion community, we are able to celebrate, and share with the world, different cultures. Being half-Palestinian, it means the world to me to be on the first-ever cover(s) of @voguearabia,..."
The face of Vogue Arabia has also been met with some criticism on social media. Hadid is not Muslim and has been know for pushing the boundaries of modesty well past breaking with some racy styles on the runway.
Twitter user @chaneltherapper said, "Gigi Hadid: Half-Palestinian but not Muslim.
Vogue: Lets make Gigi Hadid wear a hijab because she's half- Palestinian so it's justified."
User @yagirlbushra tweeted, "1 ur not muslim stop using the hijab for "art"
2 stop using the title "half palestinian" for ur benefit when u dont even fight for ur people"
Take a look in the gallery above for more photos of Gigi Hadid modeling.
The Houston Police Department has confirmed the identity of the teen arrested Wednesday for the murder of 8-year-old De'Maree Adkins.
Jacobe Dante Payton, 19, is being held in the Fort Bend County jail with a $500,000 bail after being charged in the 240th State District Court in Fort Bend County in De'Maree's death.
The Wall of Hope at the Texas Children's Hospital features two new faces in the collection of stories of perseverance.
"Mighty" Max and "Joyous" Rhian, both born premature, now have their story on the walls of the NICU to help normalize the environment and give stories of hope for other families.
"The exhibit features photographs and personal stories of former Texas Children's patients," said Tamara Thrasher-Cateni, care specialist at Texas Children's Hospital. "Showing the progression from their time in the NICU to the vibrant children and adults they have become."
Surviving cancer from a young age, Kasey Davis, Eagle Springs Elementary teacher and mother of Rhian and Max, said seeing a high-risk doctor was vital to ensure her pregnancy went well.
"We were married in November 2002 and found out in February 2004 that we were expecting our first child," Davis said. "Aaron and I were both over the moon excited."
But reaching her 28 weeks mark, Davis started have contractions and rushed to the ER to see why that was happening, not knowing that she would soon meet baby Rhian Rae.
"I was put under anesthesia and Rhian Rae was born via emergency C-section at 30 weeks. She weighed 3 pounds 9 ounces," Davis said.
Rhian was immediately taken to NICU.
"I did not get to see my precious baby girl until two days after she was born because I had a fever, and they would not let me in the NICU," Davis said.
Then, she was discharged.
"I had to leave my sweet baby girl there," Davis said. "For the next few weeks I relied on family and friends to drive me to the hospital daily to see Rhian."
Rhian Rae was in NICU for four weeks before her family was able to take her home, weighing under 5 pounds. Joyous was chosen to describe Rhian because, Davis said, "from the second she was born, she filled our life with such joy."
After such a difficult delivery and post-delivery, Davis said she wasn't planning on having any more children soon after.
"We found out that we were expecting again just 6 months after Rhian was born. We were shocked and terrified, but hopeful," Davis said.
This time around Davis was monitored closely by her doctor and was not given any reason to be concerned, but at 25 weeks, she found out at an ultrasound appointment she was in labor.
"I was already 2 centimeters dilated and 80 percent effaced," Davis said. "I was immediately admitted to Kingwood Hospital and put on strict bed rest."
Max Russell was born July 29, 2005, weighing 2 pounds and 1 ounce.
"Kingwood Hospital was wonderful and brought in a neonatologist to take care of Max around the clock for the first 24 hours of his life," Davis said.
Texas Children's Kangaroo Care was soon informed Max was strong enough to be transported to their NICU from Kingwood, which gave Davis some relief.
"We knew he would receive the best possible care," Davis said. "God was with us, though, and Max made it to the hospital and got settled into his new home away from home."
While the transportation of Max gave the family a moment of comfort, Davis said Max was still set to stay in NICU for eight months.
"Max was on a ventilator with high amounts oxygen," Davis said. "He was given medicine to help his lungs develop. When he was two weeks old, he had PDA heart surgery."
Davis said they knew Max was a fighter, which is why they chose mighty to describe him, but they weren't ready to learn he was deaf.
"We were devastated at the news but had to be thankful because so many other things could have gone wrong in the last eight months," Davis said.
The exhibit, Wall of Hope, features 15 families total as part of Phase I while Phase II features 10 families.
"It's not an uncommon sight to see parents, who are just beginning their own NICU journey, stopping to read each story as they make their way down hallways of the newborn center," Cateni said.
In the summer of 1979, a small Central Texas resort turned into one of New Braunfels' most popular attractions and over the past 39 years, the goal of the family-owned business is simply to give visitors a water-filled fun time.
The story of Schlitterbahn's creation started with the Henry family when founders Bob and Billye Henry bought Landa Resort in New Braunfels in 1966. For the next 10 years, the family realized their resort guests were most attracted to the water slides they installed.
In response to the water slide demand, the owners continued to develop new rides and slides for guests to enjoy. Then by 1979, the couple opened Schlitterbahn - which is the combination of the German words for slippery (schlitter) and road (bahn).
FUN FACTS: 35 facts about Schlitterbahn you likely didn't know about before
Now Playing: Latest Local And State News Video: Houston Chronicle
In the beginning, the resort the Henrys bought was 15 acres and 32 cabins, which grew to 40 acres and over 100 units in the first 10 years. The constant improvement of the park's attractions has been a staple in the Henry family and continues today.
"We lived at the camp so we literally lived the business," said Gary Henry, the eldest son of Bob and Billye Henry. "My mother would answer the reservation line at night and if there was any problem, we would go and fix it. It was a way of life. It was what we did."
Today, Schlitterbahn New Braunfels guests enjoy over 70 acres containing 51 attractions. The park in New Braunfels opens for spring break on Saturday, March 10, and the rest of this year's schedule can be found here.
Click through the gallery above to see the vintage photos of the Landa Resort and Schlitterbahn in their early years and continue clicking to see photos and facts of what we know as Schlitterbahn now.
BIG SPENDER: Developer proposes $446 million water park, resort in Missouri
The Schlitterbahn family was devastated after a 10-year-old boy suffered a fatal neck injury in August 2016 while riding the Verruckt slide, the world's former highest slide in the world reaching a staggering 168 feet high.
"It was a devastating event and devastating to the staff that ran that ride and the park in general," Gary Henry said. "Our focus is on safety every day the way we open the park and check to see everything is operating properly. We don't only rely on our safety, but we also rely on others coming in to double check after us."
Henry says the Schlitterbahn brand is going to continue testing, revisiting and improving all of their attractions to continuously ensure the safety of their customers and employees.
"Whether it's the parking lots or the restrooms or the rides, every aspect has to be looked at to ensure it is as safe as possible," Henry said.
WHAT FUN: Impressive North Texas water park is open and it looks epic
Ed Hubbard has been going to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels for the past 25 years with his entire family each Memorial Day weekend. He says thanks to Schlitterbahn, there is something for every family member to do and no one is bored. He credits Schlitterbahn as the reason why his kids know their extended family.
"There's one particular time that repeats itself every Memorial Day. During the day, everyone goes their own way, but every night around 6:30 and 7 we all meet up for dinner and a prayer circle," Hubbard said. "So it is really the only time of the year when our whole family is together in such an important moment.
"There's no place like Schlitterbahn. No other place would compare."
Dickinson Police Department
A La Marque man is in jail after he allegedly shot a 29 year-old man in the chest Monday, Feb. 27, at a friend's house in Dickinson.
According to Dickinson police, Austonio Dwayne Justice, 38, arrived at a residence in the 2100 block of Greenlee Lane around 8:30 a.m. where the victim was visiting a mutual friend. When the victim opened the door, Justice reportedly pulled out a gun and fired a single shot into the man's upper chest and then fled before police arrived.
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The Anderson County Sheriff's Office is searching for a missing 8-month-old, who was last seen in Palestine, Texas.
Police are also looking for 27-year-old Jeremy Laymance and 24-year-old Morgan Mosley in connection with the abduction.
The recent release of a facial reconstruction of a woman whose body was found in west Houston in mid-February has prompted about a dozen calls to authorities.
The Virginia-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children created the image at the behest of Harris County officials to help identify the woman. She was between 15 and 25 years old when she died.
Phase two of the project to expand Texas 249 begins this month with construction of the stretch from FM 2920 to the Harris-Montgomery county line. It's expected to be complete in late 2019.
The project will ultimately extend the "Aggie Freeway" 10 miles from FM 1774 to Texas 105 in Grimes County, 23 miles south of College Station. It entails a two-lane electronic toll road with four direct connectors, along with five miles of frontage road requested by local officials.
Construction begins almost a year after the completion of phase one of the Tomball Tollway - a six-mile stretch of Texas 249 - was completed.
"We took three phases and made it two," said John Tyler, Assistant Director of Engineering at the Harris County Toll Road Authority, in a presentation to the Tomball Chamber of Commerce and other community stakeholders last month.
Tyler spoke about the 1.7 miles of Texas 249 that is now being widened from FM 2920 north to Spring Creek. He said the move to consolidate projects aims to streamline construction to make it easier for transportation officials and drivers who will maneuver roadways.
Montgomery County, which will begin work late this year, has allowed Harris County workers to cross the county line as part of those streamlining efforts.
The first phase is the construction of the southbound frontage road from Spring Creek to north of FM 2920. Additionally, it includes a northbound stretch from Zion Road across Spring Creek.
Phase two is the completion of the northbound frontage road in addition to building toll ramps. This phase involves the construction of temporary pavement to divert northbound traffic between Business 249 and Zion Rd. through the south bound lane. That southbound traffic will use the new frontage road heading from Magnolia to Tomball.
The final product will be a six-lane highway which will be completed with less interruptions because of the consolidated work according to Tyler.
James Baker, the Director of Transportation for Halff Associates' Houston region, also spoke at last month's chamber meeting. He touched on some of Montgomery County Toll Road Authority's progress - about 80 percent finished with the project's design.
It includes two lanes each direction, an overpasses at Hardin Store and Woodtrace, and three detention ponds. Bidding for the MCTRA project will be early next year. Construction is estimated to cost $63 million.
Construction is expected to last 20 months with a joint road opening in December 2019.
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Just days after President Donald Trump told Congress that he was removing gang members and drug dealers as he had promised, immigration agents deported a 31-year-old Houston father of two American children who has been here since he was 15 and had a temporary reprieve from deportation and no other criminal record.
Jose Escobar was arrested Feb. 22 when he went to the Houston immigration office for his annual check-in. He had a provisional stay of deportation and a work permit since 2012, when he was released from immigration custody after a media and congressional campaign drew attention to his case.
His arrest is part of a wave of detentions across the country after the Trump administration released new guidelines last month making practically every immigrant here illegally, even those like Escobar who have a provisional protection from deportation, eligible for removal.
"They didn't give us a chance to do anything," said Cesar Espinosa, whose advocacy organization FIEL Houston lobbied for Escobar's case.
Escobar's lawyer, Raed Gonzalez, was notified on Thursday morning that he had been deported back to El Salvador, a country he hasn't seen in 16 years.
"This is a terrible message to send," Espinosa said. "We're afraid people are going to stop showing up to their (immigration) check-ins, and it just sends a shock wave through the community. ... It's all coming to fruition, and it's very scary."
Unlike the violent criminals Trump has said he would focus on, Escobar landed in deportation proceedings because of a simple paperwork gaffe.
His mother sent for him when he was 15 and like her, he qualified for temporary protected status for people fleeing widespread disasters in certain countries.
She assumed his permit would automatically renew when she reapplied for hers. But it didn't.
Because they had moved, they didn't receive the paperwork informing him that he had missed the deadline.
When he finally figured out what had happened, he tried to reapply for the permit but it was too late. The government had already initiated deportation proceedings. Escobar's wife, Rose, said their lawyer told him not to show up at the court hearing or he would be deported. In his absence, the judge ordered him removed in 2006.
But with no one trying hard to find him, the Escobars lived a normal life, moving to New Orleans and then back to Houston. Their son Walter was born.
On June 6, 2011, immigration agents arrested Jose as he pulled out of his driveway to go to work. His wife consulted with lawyers, created a petition on Change.org, and recruited the help of U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Houston Democrat.
Her efforts paid off. After seven months in detention, immigration agents released Escobar in January 2012 on an order of supervision, a provisional stay of deportation in a process known broadly as prosecutorial discretion. He was required to check in with immigration agents once a year and given a temporary work permit.
It was part of a wave of reprieves announced that year by the administration of former President Barack Obama, who said he wanted to focus the government's limited resources on deporting violent criminals, rather than people with clean records who have been here for years and have American children.
But now such priorities have been rescinded. It's swept fear across the country that's been heightened by widespread raids and incidents like the arrest of 22-year-old Daniela Vargas in Mississippi this week. Vargas previously had a protected status for youth, known as Deferred Action for Early Childhood Arrivals, that expired last November though she had filed to renew.
An Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman did not immediately return calls.
Rucks Russell, a spokesman for Jackson Lee, said the congresswoman was on a flight back to Houston.
Late Thursday, Escobar had already arrived in El Salvador and was staying with his wife's grandmother.
His wife, Rose, was devastated, Espinosa said. She had reassured their two children, 7-year-old Walter and 2-year-old Carmen, that Daddy would eventually come home.
"He just went somewhere boring," she told them last week.
Houstonians have been closely watching the recovery of officers Ronny Cortez and Jose Munoz, two police officers who were shot in Southwest Houston while responding to a burglary.
Earl Donnell Riley, who had a laundry list of previous criminal convictions and was just released from prison 10 months ago, was killed in an exchange of gunfire with the officers. In the wake of the shooting, Riley was identified as a known member of the criminal gang called the 52 Hoover Crips.
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In an unusual turn of events, an Odessa newspaper has filed a report with the local police department after an Odessa City Council member allegedly posted a threat on Facebook.
Councilman Malcolm Hamilton apparently used a private Facebook page Sunday to post the message, which the Odessa American said it learned about from multiple sources.
"You push me and you get push off a cliff!" the Facebook post said. "And as your falling off the cliff yelling and screaming looking up at the sky, Asking God why? I'm right behind you with my arm chocking your neck...."
In a telephone interview Thursday afternoon, Hamilton said he didn't consider the post a threat.
"If anything, it was sarcasm, a metaphor," he said. "There's a sign in the Permian High School locker room that says, 'Fight them until hell freezes over and then fight them on ice,' which means never give up. I'm never going to give up fighting for my district."
VIRAL VIDEO: Social media reacts to Walmart customer's racist rant
Hamilton was the subject of an Odessa American article that ran Saturday, raising questions about a 12-day trip the first-term council member made in January to Minneapolis, where he previously lived, at a cost of more than $2,100 to Odessa taxpayers. Hamilton told Chron.com that he extended his stay in Minneapolis due to a family emergency but did not stay in a hotel or rent a car for those days. Also, he said, he reimbursed the city the $310 it cost to change his return flight.
According to the paper, the only city business on the trip was a 75-minute meeting with a Minneapolis official and the Odessa city attorney.
The councilman's Facebook message was posted Sunday morning but appears to have been removed later, the paper reported. The next day, the publication filed a report with the Odessa Police Department.
Cpl. Steven LeSueur said Thursday that the department had submitted the report to the Ector County Attorney's Office for judicial review and was waiting to see if it constitutes a crime.
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Odessa American publisher Patrick Canty said Thursday it was the first time he had seen an incident like this during 35 years in journalism.
Although acknowledging that social media has changed the nature of public criticism, Canty said this was the first time he had felt compelled to report something to the police.
"We get criticism all the time, " he said. "That comes with the territory, but this is the first time I saw something like that in a public forum with hints of physical aggression. It's up to me to not only support my staff but make sure they're safe."
Hamilton said he thought the criticism of his trip was a form of "character assassination" because he has raised questions about the make-up of the executive board of Grow Odessa (formerly known as the Odessa Industrial Development Corp.) as well as disparities in economic development funding among the city's districts.
Although he has raised these issues previously, he recently "got louder about it," Hamilton said. "If I have to raise my voice to the heights of heaven, I will."
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.
The 2016 Presidential election shook the foundations of American politics. Media reports immediately looked for external disruption to explain the unanticipated victorywith theories ranging from Russian hacking to fake news.
We have a less exotic, but perhaps more disconcerting explanation: Our own study of over 1.25 million stories published online between April 1, 2015 and Election Day shows that a right-wing media network anchored around Breitbart developed as a distinct and insulated media system, using social media as a backbone to transmit a hyper-partisan perspective to the world. This pro-Trump media sphere appears to have not only successfully set the agenda for the conservative media sphere, but also strongly influenced the broader media agenda, in particular coverage of Hillary Clinton.
While concerns about political and media polarization online are longstanding, our study suggests that polarization was asymmetric. Pro-Clinton audiences were highly attentive to traditional media outlets, which continued to be the most prominent outlets across the public sphere, alongside more left-oriented online sites. But pro-Trump audiences paid the majority of their attention to polarized outlets that have developed recently, many of them only since the 2008 election season.
Attacks on the integrity and professionalism of opposing media were also a central theme of right-wing media. Rather than fake news in the sense of wholly fabricated falsities, many of the most-shared stories can more accurately be understood as disinformation: the purposeful construction of true or partly true bits of information into a message that is, at its core, misleading. Over the course of the election, this turned the right-wing media system into an internally coherent, relatively insulated knowledge community, reinforcing the shared worldview of readers and shielding them from journalism that challenged it. The prevalence of such material has created an environment in which the President can tell supporters about events in Sweden that never happened, or a presidential advisor can reference a non-existent Bowling Green massacre.
RELATED: Breitbart editor slams mainstream media in Pulitzer Hall
We began to study this ecosystem by looking at the landscape of what sites people share. If a person shares a link from Breitbart, is he or she more likely also to share a link from Fox News or from The New York Times? We analyzed hyperlinking patterns, social media sharing patterns on Facebook and Twitter, and topic and language patterns in the content of the 1.25 million stories, published by 25,000 sources over the course of the election, using Media Cloud, an open-source platform for studying media ecosystems developed by Harvards Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society and MITs Center for Civic Media.
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When we map media sources this way, we see that Breitbart became the center of a distinct right-wing media ecosystem, surrounded by Fox News, the Daily Caller, the Gateway Pundit, the Washington Examiner, Infowars, Conservative Treehouse, and Truthfeed.
Notes: In the above clouds, the nodes are sized according to how often they were shared on Twitter (Fig. 1) or Facebook (Fig. 2). The location of nodes is determined by whether two sites were shared by the same Twitter user on the same day, representing the extent to which two sites draw similar audiences. The colors assigned to a site in the map reflect the share of that sites stories tweeted by users who also retweeted either Clinton or Trump during the election. These colors therefore reflect the attention patterns of audiences, not analysis of content of the sites. Dark blue sites draw attention in ratios of at least 4:1 from Clinton followers; red sites 4:1 Trump followers. Green sites are retweeted more or less equally by followers of each candidate. Light-blue sites draw 3:2 Clinton followers, and pink draw 3:2 Trump followers.
Our analysis challenges a simple narrative that the internet as a technology is what fragments public discourse and polarizes opinions, by allowing us to inhabit filter bubbles or just read the daily me. If technology were the most important driver towards a post-truth world, we would expect to see symmetric patterns on the left and the right. Instead, different internal political dynamics in the right and the left led to different patterns in the reception and use of the technology by each wing. While Facebook and Twitter certainly enabled right-wing media to circumvent the gatekeeping power of traditional media, the pattern was not symmetric.
The size of the nodes marking traditional professional media like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and CNN, surrounded by the Hill, ABC, and NBC, tell us that these media drew particularly large audiences. Their color tells us that Clinton followers attended to them more than Trump followers, and their proximity on the map to more quintessentially partisan siteslike Huffington Post, MSNBC, or the Daily Beastsuggests that attention to these more partisan outlets on the left was more tightly interwoven with attention to traditional media. The Breitbart-centered wing, by contrast, is farther from the mainstream set and lacks bridging nodes that draw attention and connect it to that mainstream.
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Moreover, the fact that these asymmetric patterns of attention were similar on both Twitter and Facebook suggests that human choices and political campaigning, not one companys algorithm, were responsible for the patterns we observe. These patterns might be the result of a coordinated campaign, but they could also be an emergent property of decentralized behavior, or some combination of both. Our data to this point cannot distinguish between these alternatives.
Another way of seeing this asymmetry is to graph how much attention is given to sites that draw attention mostly from one side of the partisan divide. There are very few center-right sites: sites that draw many Trump followers, but also a substantial number of Clinton followers. Between the moderately conservative Wall Street Journal, which draws Clinton and Trump supporters in equal shares, and the starkly partisan sites that draw Trump supporters by ratios of 4:1 or more, there are only a handful of sites. Once a threshold of partisan-only attention is reached, the number of sites in the clearly partisan right increases, and indeed exceeds the number of sites in the clearly partisan left. By contrast, starting at The Wall Street Journal and moving left, attention is spread more evenly across a range of sites whose audience reflects a gradually increasing proportion of Clinton followers as opposed to Trump followers. Unlike on the right, on the left there is no dramatic increase in either the number of sites or levels of attention they receive as we move to more clearly partisan sites.
The primary explanation of such asymmetric polarization is more likely politics and culture than technology.
A remarkable feature of the right-wing media ecosystem is how new it is. Out of all the outlets favored by Trump followers, only the New York Post existed when Ronald Reagan was elected president in 1980. By the election of Bill Clinton in 1992, only the Washington Times, Rush Limbaugh, and arguably Sean Hannity had joined the fray. Alex Jones of Infowars started his first outlet on the radio in 1996. Fox News was not founded until 1996. Breitbart was founded in 2007, and most of the other major nodes in the right-wing media system were created even later. Outside the right-wing, the map reflects a mixture of high attention to traditional journalistic outlets and dispersed attention to new, online-only, and partisan media.
The pattern of hyper-partisan attack was set during the primary campaign, targeting not only opposing candidates but also media that did not support Trumps candidacy. In our data, looking at the most widely-shared stories during the primary season and at the monthly maps of media during those months, we see that Jeb Bush, Marco Rubio, and Fox News were the targets of attack.
The February map, for example, shows Fox News as a smaller node quite distant from the Breitbart-centered right. It reflects the fact that Fox News received less attention than it did earlier or later in the campaign, and less attention, in particular, from users who also paid attention to the core Breitbart-centered sites and whose attention would have drawn Fox closer to Breitbart. The March map is similar, and only over April and May will Foxs overall attention and attention from Breitbart followers revive.
This sidelining of Fox News in early 2016 coincided with sustained attacks against it by Breitbart. The top-20 stories in the right-wing media ecology during January included, for example, Trump Campaign Manager Reveals Fox News Debate Chief Has Daughter Working for Rubio. More generally, the five most-widely shared stories in which Breitbart refers to Fox are stories aimed to delegitimize Fox as the central arbiter of conservative news, tying it to immigration, terrorism and Muslims, and corruption:
The Anti-Trump Network: Fox News Money Flows into Open Borders Group;
NY Times Bombshell Scoop: Fox News Colluded with Rubio to Give Amnesty to Illegal Aliens;
Google and Fox TV Invite Anti-Trump, Hitler-Citing, Muslim Advocate to Join Next GOP TV-Debate;
Fox, Google Pick 1994 Illegal Immigrant To Ask Question In Iowa GOP Debate;
Fox News At Facebook Meeting Is Misdirection: Murdoch and Zuckerberg Are Deeply Connected Over Immigration.
The repeated theme of conspiracy, corruption, and media betrayal is palpable in these highly shared Breitbart headlines linking Fox News, Rubio, and illegal immigration.
As the primaries ended, our maps show that attention to Fox revived and was more closely integrated with Breitbart and the remainder of the right-wing media sphere. The primary target of the right-wing media then became all other traditional media. While the prominence of different media sources in the right-wing sphere vary when viewed by shares on Facebook and Twitter, the content and core structure, with Breitbart at the center, is stable across platforms. Infowars, and similarly radical sites Truthfeed and Ending the Fed, gain in prominence in the Facebook map.
These two maps reveal the same pattern. Even in the highly-charged pre-election month, everyone outside the Breitbart-centered universe forms a tightly interconnected attention network, with major traditional mass media and professional sources at the core. The right, by contrast, forms its own insular sphere.
The right-wing media was also able to bring the focus on immigration, Clinton emails, and scandals more generally to the broader media environment. A sentence-level analysis of stories throughout the media environment suggests that Donald Trumps substantive agendaheavily focused on immigration and direct attacks on Hillary Clintoncame to dominate public discussions.
Coverage of Clinton overwhelmingly focused on emails, followed by the Clinton Foundation and Benghazi. Coverage of Trump included some scandal, but the most prevalent topic of Trump-focused stories was his main substantive agenda itemimmigrationand his arguments about jobs and trade also received more attention than his scandals.
While mainstream media coverage was often critical, it nonetheless revolved around the agenda that the right-wing media sphere set: immigration. Right-wing media, in turn, framed immigration in terms of terror, crime, and Islam, as a review of Breitbart and other right-wing media stories about immigration most widely shared on social media exhibits. Immigration is the key topic around which Trump and Breitbart found common cause; just as Trump made this a focal point for his campaign, Breitbart devoted disproportionate attention to the topic.
What we find in our data is a network of mutually-reinforcing hyper-partisan sites that revive what Richard Hofstadter called the paranoid style in American politics, combining decontextualized truths, repeated falsehoods, and leaps of logic to create a fundamentally misleading view of the world. Fake news, which implies made of whole cloth by politically disinterested parties out to make a buck of Facebook advertising dollars, rather than propaganda and disinformation, is not an adequate term. By repetition, variation, and circulation through many associated sites, the network of sites make their claims familiar to readers, and this fluency with the core narrative gives credence to the incredible.
Take a look at Ending the Fed, which, according to Buzzfeeds examination of fake news in November 2016, accounted for five of the top 10 of the top fake stories in the election. In our data, Ending the Fed is indeed prominent by Facebook measures, but not by Twitter shares. In the month before the election, for example, it was one of the three most-shared right-wing sites on Facebook, alongside Breitbart and Truthfeed. While Ending the Fed clearly had great success marketing stories on Facebook, our analysis shows nothing distinctive about the siteit is simply part-and-parcel of the Breitbart-centered sphere.
And the false claims perpetuated in Ending the Feds most-shared posts are well established tropes in right wing media: the leaked Podesta emails, alleged Saudi funding of Clintons campaign, and a lack of credibility in media. The most Facebook-shared story by Ending the Fed in October was ITS OVER: Hillarys ISIS Email Just Leaked & Its Worse Than Anyone Could Have Imagined. See also, Infowars Saudi Arabia has funded 20% of Hillarys Presidential Campaign, Saudi Crown Prince Claims, and Breitbarts Clinton Cash: Khizr Khans Deep Legal, Financial Connections to Saudi Arabia, Hillarys Clinton Foundation Tie Terror, Immigration, Email Scandals Together. This mix of claims and facts, linked through paranoid logic characterizes much of the most shared content linked to Breitbart. It is a mistake to dismiss these stories as fake news; their power stems from a potent mix of verifiable facts (the leaked Podesta emails), familiar repeated falsehoods, paranoid logic, and consistent political orientation within a mutually-reinforcing network of like-minded sites.
Use of disinformation by partisan media sources is neither new nor limited to the right wing, but the insulation of the partisan right-wing media from traditional journalistic media sources, and the vehemence of its attacks on journalism in common cause with a similarly outspoken president, is new and distinctive.
Rebuilding a basis on which Americans can form a shared belief about what is going on is a precondition of democracy, and the most important task confronting the press going forward. Our data strongly suggest that most Americans, including those who access news through social networks, continue to pay attention to traditional media, following professional journalistic practices, and cross-reference what they read on partisan sites with what they read on mass media sites.
To accomplish this, traditional media needs to reorient, not by developing better viral content and clickbait to compete in the social media environment, but by recognizing that it is operating in a propaganda and disinformation-rich environment. This, not Macedonian teenagers or Facebook, is the real challenge of the coming years. Rising to this challenge could usher in a new golden age for the Fourth Estate.
The election study was funded by the Open Society Foundations U.S. Program. Media Cloud has received funding from The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Robert Woods Johnson Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and the Open Societies Foundations.
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Yochai Benkler, Robert Faris, Hal Roberts, and Ethan Zuckerman are the authors. Benkler is a professor at Harvard Law School and codirector of the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard (BKC); Faris is research director at BKC; Roberts is a fellow at BKC and technical lead of Media Cloud; and Zuckerman is director of the MIT Center for Civic Media.
When Jeffrey Zucker needs to get a lot done at work, he eats half a weed gummy. Far from putting him at risk of a Maureen Dowd-level stupor, the 5-milligram dose of THC he gets gives him just a slight buzz that makes him more focused and creative, he says.
Does Zucker worry that his boss might find out hes doing drugs at work? Well, no, because hes in charge. Zucker runs Green Lion Partners, a Denver-based venture firm that backs cannabis-related companies, and he says he encourages his employees to do whatever will make them the most successfuleven eat small amounts of weed-infused candy.
With recreational marijuana now legal in eight states and the District of Columbia, users have gravitated to low-dose edibles, such as brownies and mints with THC content of less than 5 milligramslow enough for a manageable high for first-time users. Often, companies market these products to first-time users or those with low tolerances. But weed sellers have found another use case for low-dose edibles: microdosing.
Microdosing refers to regularly taking small amounts of drugsgenerally, hard-to-get and illegal psychoactive ones, such as LSD or psychedelic mushroomsthroughout the day to boost creativity. Taken in such small quantities, the drugs dont make users trip. Rather, people claim the drugs improve their concentration, problem-solving abilities, creativity, and productivity and reduce their anxiety.
Some say ingesting small amounts of marijuana throughout the workday can have similar effects. And unlike LSD or mushrooms, weed is widely available and legal in many places.
Marquise Prentice, a 33-year-old director of IT at a law firm in Los Angeles, pops multiple low-dose mints per day. He says they help him with inflammation, indigestion, and managing stress and anxiety. Im not digesting a crazy amount of marijuana and falling asleep at my desk, he says. Im active all day, functioning, and completing my tasks.
People arent using drugs to get blasted into outer space, adds Christie Strong, the marketing communications manager at Kiva Confections, a California-based edibles maker. In a small amount, people are finding they are having more focus, instead of that typical cannabis experience when theyre a little distracted and hazy.
Kivas Terra Bites, chocolate-covered espresso beans with 5 milligrams of THC, are its bestseller. After hearing they were especially popular among workers and that some would have half of one before work, Kiva decided last fall to make a lower-dose productPetra Mints, 2.5-milligram mints that puts you in control.
Kiva markets the mints in part as a way for workers to enhance the workday. The small dose makes it possible to use cannabis as part of a daily routine, as there is no interference with work, focus, or energy levels, reads a guide to microdosing that the company put out with its mints. Theres also less risk theyll get you too high. (With a mint, you already intuitively know not to take a handful, says Strong.)
Employers have struggled with how to handle workers marijuana use as more states have begun legalizing it. A lot of clients are like, What do we do?' said James Reidy, an employment lawyer who helps companies with their HR and marijuana policies.
Legally, employers have a lot of leeway. Even in pot-friendly Colorado, the states highest court decided in 2015 that it was legal to fire an employee for using medical marijuana outside of work. Companies can face liability issues if workers hurt someone or have an accident in the office while theyre under the influence. Matt Biscan, a Denver-based employment lawyer who works with dozens of companies on workplace weed policies, says many of his clients have had problems with employees coming to work acting inebriated or funny.
Yet many companies already struggling to hire in a tight labor market have backed away from drug testing, and many turn a blind eye to using outside of work, said Reidy. About a third of employers surveyed in 2015 by the Society for Human Resource Management said they wouldnt hire someone who admitted to consuming weed, even for medical reasons.
But employers tend draw the line at using at work. Many workplaces have zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policies; Kiva, citing safety concerns, is one such office. (Medical marijuana, however, has led to some confusion. What is the definition of drugs?' said Reidy. Can I have my prescription drugs that I need?)
Still, even companies that take a hard line on employee drug use may have a hard time detecting microdosers, he said. Mints dont smell, and when workers are ingesting pot in such small amounts, they dont register as high.
For certain kinds of workers, the risk of using at work is low, argues Tim Moxey, who runs Botanica Seattle, which makes low-dose mints and brownies. His companys 5-milligram mint is the bestselling edible in Washington state, according to two cannabis data analytics companies, Lemonhaze and Headset.
Im not saying have cannabis and drive a forklift. That is a bad idea, he said. If you are professionally using your brain and find it works for you, go for it. I dont have any moral objection to that.
Copyright 2022 Bloomberg.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer of both men and women in the United States. Lifestyle factors that may increase your risk of getting colorectal cancer include:
* Lack of regular exercise
* A diet low in fruits and vegetables
* A low-fiber and high-fat diet
*Being overweight
*Excessive alcohol use
*Tobacco use
Living a healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk of colorectal cancer. But regular screening is also important. Testing can often find colon cancer early, when its most treatable.
Ninety percent of colon cancer begins when polyps become cancerous. A polyp is a small growth that attaches itself to the inner wall of the colon. Anyone can get colon polyps, but certain people are more likely to get them than others. You may have a greater chance of getting polyps if:
*you're 50 years of age or older
*you've had polyps before
*someone in your family has had polyps
* someone in your family has had cancer of the large intestine, also called colon cancer
* you've had uterine or ovarian cancer before age 50
The fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is used as a screening tool to check for early colon cancer. Blood in the stool may be the only signs of early cancer. And, if found early, treatment can start right away, improving the chance of a cure.
Four Corners Health Department encourages you to get screened for colon cancer. This simple test can be done in the comfort and privacy of your own home. FOBT test kits are available for people age 50 74 years at no charge from Four Corners Health Department. During the month of March, you can also pick up a FOBT kit at Walgreens in York, Surgical Associates in York, and Pac-n-Save in Seward, if you fall within those ages. If you think you may be at a higher than average risk for colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor about getting screened earlier. If you are over the age of 75 and feel you need to be screened, contact your doctor.
Colon cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable!
If you have questions or need more information, please contact Four Corners Health Department @ 1-877-337-3573 or inquire at: info@fourcorners.ne.gov.
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A man faces a public indecency charge after being accused of exposing himself to a woman.
(File photo)
AKRON, Ohio -- Akron police dubbed a 27-year-old man a "serial exposer" after he exposed himself to several women in the city, according to a report released Friday.
David Thomas Jr. faces a charge of public indecency and is scheduled for an 8 a.m. arraignment hearing Saturday in Akron Municipal Court, according to Akron police Lt. Rick Edwards and court records.
The incident happened around 8:30 a.m. Friday in the area of Delia Avenue and Greenwood Avenue, Edwards said.
The victim told police that a man exposed himself to her and made rude comments as she walked her dog. She was able to get a license plate number from the man's car and later identified Thomas as the man who exposed himself, Edwards said.
Police say Thomas may have exposed himself to other woman over the course of several months, Edwards said. He has not been charged in any other incidents as of Friday.
He was taken to Summit County Jail where he is being held on no bond, according to the Summit County Sheriff's Office.
If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Friday's crime and courts comments section.
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A lead instructor for Summit County Prosecutor Sherri Bevan Walsh's women's self-defense classes, Lt. Chad Cunningham of the University of Akron Police Department teaches a technique.
(Summit County Prosecutor's Office)
AKRON, Ohio - Women in Summit County can take free women's self-defense classes, sponsored by Summit County Prosecutor Sherri Bevan Walsh.
The next class is set for Tuesday, March 21, 6-8 p.m. at the First Apostolic Faith Church, at 790 Easter Ave. in Akron.
The class will be led by Walsh and representatives from the Summit County Sheriff's Department. Lt. Chad Cunningham of the University of Akron Police Department, leads many of the classes.
As county prosecutor and woman who once fended off an attack, Walsh wants women to know how to stay safe in their community.
As a young Akron prosecutor, Walsh was attacked as she got into her car one morning. Using self-defense moves she learned in college, Walsh was able to fight off her attacker by screaming and fighting back. The suspect was later captured and identified as a serial rapist.
Since then, Walsh's office has sponsored nearly 60 classes, teaching self-defense moves to about 2,500 women.
The two-hour classes are designed to offer women the basic self-defense moves they need -- including verbal techniques like screaming.
Moves include:
how to breakaway if an attacker grabs your wrist
how to break a chokehold
how to escape if you are pinned on the floor
How and where to kick and slap
The classes are offered from fall through spring at various locations around the county.
Organizations that would like to host a self-defense class or safety presentation can call 330-643-7915 to schedule.
Gene Simmons
Gene Simmons attends the "Music On A Mission" benefit concert held at Lucky Strike Live - Hollywood on Sunday, August 16, 2015 in Los Angeles.
(Paul A. Hebert)
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Gene Simmons can't be happy with this year's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class.
Rock acts Journey, Pearl Jam and Yes are being inducted. But the Kiss bass guitarist has been outspoken about non-rock acts being making their way into the museum and this year's class features one of the biggest in Tupac Shakur.
Simmons is set to headline this year's Wizard World Cleveland the weekend of March 17. In a new interview Canton's The Repository, Simmons once again stated his displeasure with the Rock Hall.
"There are people from different genres that I don't believe belong in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. There's disco and rap and all kinds of stuff," Simmons says.
"And I highly respect rap, but on the day Led Zeppelin gets put into the hip hop Hall of Fame, is the day I will personally accept rap artists as being brought into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
"It just ain't the same thing. You go to Apple Music, and you go to different genres and you type in 'rock,' you're not gonna find a single rap band in that category. Likewise, if you look at hip hop or rap, you're not gonna see AC/DC or Kiss in the list in there."
Simmons grabbed headlines last year when he was critical of N.W.A. being part of the Rock Hall's Class of 2016. Over the years, Simmons has expressed his displeasure with everyone from Run-DMC and Grandmaster Flash to Madonna and Donna Summer being in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
South Euclid business awards.JPG
South Euclid, as part of its centennial celebration, awarded its longest lasting establishments at a business mixer held Thursday at University Suburban Health Center. Shown clockwise from lower left are Karen Poelking, representing Notre Dame College; Telling Mansion owner Richard Barone; Mayor Georgine Welo; Black Forest pub owner Rick King; Interim Executive Director of the Heights-Hillcrest Regional Chamber of Commerce Karen Schaefer; Economic Development Director Michael Love; and Yvonne Sanders, president of development corporation One South Euclid.
(Jeff Piorkowski/Special to cleveland.com)
South Euclid's centennial logo
SOUTH EUCLID, Ohio -- The city recognized some of its longest lasting businesses during this, its centennial year, at Thursday's South Euclid Business Appreciation Mixer.
Also known as SoEuBAM, the annual event was held at University Suburban Medical Center and gave local business people the opportunity to mingle to the live sounds of local band Gruve Tonic.
Warehouse Beverage, 4364 Mayfield Road, received the "Longest Operating Commercial Enterprise" award, while Black Forest owner Rick King took home the award for "Longest Operating Pub."
The Richard Barone Foundation received the "Best Adaptive Reuse" award for its work at the Telling Mansion, and Notre Dame College, the city's longest lasting institution, was the recipient of the "Historic Preservation Award."
Barone, who purchased the Telling Mansion, 4645 Mayfield Road, the former home of the South Euclid-Lyndhurst Library, said plans to re-open the building as the home of a porcelain museum are moving forward.
"Right now, we're looking at opening the museum in October, but we expect to have a couple of private events there before then," he said.
Barone, 75, who grew up in South Euclid and now lives in Florida half the year, bought the mansion in May, 2013. The porcelain museum will feature pieces from his own collection, as well as other collections that are being purchased for exhibition. He said that an endowment fund is being established to purchase future items for exhibit.
"The museum is getting a lot of attention from collectors all over the country, more than I expected," Barone said. "They're really excited to see it opening."
Barone said floors and walls at the mansion, built in 1928, have been renovated, and that lighting improvement work will also take place. The mansion closed as home to the library in September, 2015.
Mayor Georgine Welo, in presenting the award to Barone, said of the uncertainty that surrounded the library's closing, "We all wondered what would happen to the Telling Mansion."
She said Barone became "South Euclid's biggest hero" for purchasing the building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, and giving it a new use. "Before that," Welo said, "everyone who came to me wanted to tear it down."
It was three years ago that King purchased the Black Forest pub at 4368 Mayfield Road, and undertook renovations. The bar was established by a German immigrant couple in 1935 and, King said, "The basement was used as a speakeasy during Prohibition.
"Our bar was in the basement when it was a speakeasy, then was brought up to the first floor when Prohibition ended."
King said he learned of the bar's history from the grandson and granddaughter of its original owners. He said he was told that the wooden bar was handcrafted more than 80 years ago by an Italian man.
Recently, King said, the bar began serving food. Fish fries are being held on Fridays during the Lenten season, and the establishment also sells bar food, such as chicken tenders, as well as steak dinners.
"We're not a restaurant," King clarified, "we're still a bar."
Notre Dame College Vice President of Board and Community Relations Karen Poelking, who grew up in South Euclid and has worked at the college since 1980, accepted the award given the institution.
Tuck-pointing and other work undertaken to preserve the college's Administration Building earned NDC its award. Poelking said that construction work on the Administration Building, the only other South Euclid building included on the National Register of Historic Places, began in 1926, two years after the Sisters of Notre Dame purchased farmland off Green Road. The college had been formed in 1922 on Ansel Road in Cleveland.
"The Administration Building was opened in 1928, when the college opened in South Euclid," Poelking said. "The north and east wings were completed. But then, with the coming of the Depression, work stopped on it. The building was finished when the west wing was added in 1961."
Members of the Speyer family, which founded what became Warehouse Beverage in the 1950s, were not present to accept their award. Economic Development Director Michael Love said the business was founded as Speyer Deli at another location on Mayfield Road in South Euclid in the 1940s. Upon moving, its name and purpose changed.
The award to the Speyer family was collected by Karen Schaefer, interim executive director of the Heights-Hillcrest Regional Chamber of Commerce, and a family relative.
The chamber co-sponsored the mixer along with the city of South Euclid and the city's development corporation, One South Euclid.
The awards given the recipients included the city's new, special centennial logo.
Welo announced that the city would celebrate the centennial throughout the year, but that June 24-25, the weekend of South Euclid's Rock the Block celebration on Mayfield Road, has been declared "Centennial Week."
Cuyahoga County Justice Center
An ordinance that would allow the city to move forward on an agreement with Cuyahoga County for jail operations could be introduced as soon as Monday. The agreement would require the city to pay the county a per diem fee for each prisoner. In exchange, the Cuyahoga County sheriff would house and care for Cleveland's prisoners in the county jail.
(Marvin Fong, The Plain Dealer)
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Cleveland is again exploring the closure of the city jail and joining forces instead with Cuyahoga County for housing prisoners and suspects.
Legislation that would eventually allow for closing the jail is expected to come before City Council shortly, perhaps as soon as Monday.
The city could save about $5 million a year with such an agreement, according to Martin Flask, Mayor Frank Jackson's executive assistant for special projects who has been working on the issue.
A deal long in the making
Merging jail operations has long been discussed -- most recently in 2014. The city and the county each operate lockup facilities in the Justice Center complex in downtown Cleveland. But they've never been able to finalize a deal.
Flask, who addressed the issue this week during City Council's budget hearings, said the county would charge Cleveland $99 a day per person to house prisoners. The Cuyahoga County sheriff's staff would handle booking of all prisoners.
Cleveland already has been working toward getting out of the jail business. Neighborhood jails at police district headquarters around the city already have been closed, Flask told council.
Closure of the city jail could also allow Cleveland to consider a new police headquarters down the road. The headquarters is now in the Justice Center.
Potential for savings
The terms and savings are similar to what was discussed in 2014.
That plan called for the city to pay about $85 a day for each prisoner. In exchange, the county would assume responsibility for all aspects of prisoner care.
City Council approved that plan, but the deal stalled with the county. City Council President Kevin Kelley said the amount charged for the per diem fee became a sticking point. The current discussions would charge the city $14 more per prisoner.
Current figures weren't immediately available, but in 2014 Cleveland housed about 265 prisoners per day. At $99 a day, that would cost the city about $9.6 million over a year.
Jackson's proposed budget allocates $14.7 million toward the city's corrections division. That includes funding for more than 100 corrections officers that no longer would be needed as jailers.
Some of those officers could be shifted to the police department, which is looking to add officers.
More action needed
Even if the ordinance gets a first reading Monday, the process still would have a ways to go. Council's Public Safety Committee and Finance Committee would hold hearings before the legislation would come before the full council.
Kelley said the ordinance could clear City Council by the end of March.
Any agreement also would have to be approved by Cuyahoga County Council, Flask said.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Members of Greater Cleveland's Puncture the Silence have teamed up with several community organizations and professional archivists to document local accounts of abuse at the hands of police.
To that end, organizers launched A People's Archive of Police Violence in Cleveland and are inviting the public to share their stories at an April 8 gathering at the Martin Luther King Jr. branch of the Cleveland Public Library.
"We've had some terrible experiences here with police killings and no justice around them," said Carol Steiner, who spoke on behalf of Puncture the Silence -- Stop Mass Incarceration and sits on its steering committee. "We consider (the archives) part of the activism around that struggle for justice."
Steiner hopes the April 8 event will give residents an opportunity to share -- and preserve for the future -- their encounters with police abuse in Cleveland.
"If people have these experiences and they are just swept under the rug, they can keep on going on," Steiner said.
Attendees will have an opportunity to record their experiences on video, either anonymously or with their names attached. They can also share photographs, fliers or other materials that will then be uploaded to the group's online archive.
Puncture the Silence is inviting people to tell their own stories of abuse, but also give testimony on the effects of police violence in their communities.
Professional archivists will be on-hand at the event to help document residents' stories, Steiner side. Sponsors of the event include Black on Black Crime, Inc., Books and Breakfast, Cleveland Clergy Alliance, Committee to Free the RNC16, Northeast Ohio American Friends Service Committee, Ohio City Theatre Project, #OrganizeCLE and other individuals, according to the initiative's Facebook page.
A People's Archive of Police Violence in Cleveland was first organized in the summer of 2015, according to its website. Steiner said group members set up shop at a handful of community centers and other locations around Cleveland, where they asked residents to share their experiences.
That initiative came on the heels of the Puncture the Silence's People's Tribunal on Police Brutality, which occurred in April 2015 with the same goals of archiving local instances police abuse.
The upcoming event is an expansion of those efforts.
Residents can also opt to upload their testimonies or materials directly to the archive's website.
The gathering is scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. April 8 at the MLK branch library, located at 1962 Stokes Boulevard.
To comment on this story, please visit cleveland.com's crime and courts comments section.
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The FBI is seeking a 17-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy in connection with a Monday carjacking in Euclid.
(Cleveland FBI)
EUCLID, Ohio - Investigators are searching for two teenagers in connection with a Euclid carjacking that may be linked to a Lyndhurst bank robbery.
The 17-year-old boy and the 15-year-old boy are charged with aggravated robbery in an attempted carjacking that happened Monday at Zappy's Car Wash in Euclid, the Cleveland Division of the FBI said in a news release.
The teens are also suspects in a carjacking that happened later the same day on Effingham Avenue in Euclid. The FBI is investigating whether the black Nissan Versa taken during that carjacking was used in a Monday robbery at Fifth Third Bank on Cedar Road in Lyndhurst, the FBI said Tuesday.
Three men caught on camera during the Lyndhurst bank robbery might be responsible for at least 10 similar incidents that happened in the past three weeks in Northeast Ohio, the FBI said Monday.
The teens charged in the Zappy's Car Wash incident should be considered armed and dangerous, the FBI said.
Reward money is available to anyone with information leading to their arrest and prosecution. Tipsters can remain anonymous when they contact the FBI, the Euclid Police Department or Cuyahoga County Crime Stoppers.
If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Friday's crime and courts comments section.
Derek Brown
Derek Brown
(Lorain Police Department)
LORAIN, Ohio - Lorain police are searching for a known drug dealer wanted for questioning after someone opened fire Monday during a drug deal, according to a police report.
Derek Brown, 30, is wanted in the shooting that happened about (time) at a house on West 39th Street near North Leavitt Street, police said. Brown was charged in a warrant with possession of a gun as a felon.
Brown's 27-year-old girlfriend was arrested Thursday, Lorain police said. She faces a complicity to trafficking in marijuana charge, though the charge has not been formally filed.
Lorain police responded Monday to the couple's house after neighbors reported hearing gunshots. Officers found evidence of a shooting in front of the house, and took Brown, his girlfriend and their infant child to the police station for questioning.
A short time later, officers learned that a man who said he was shot outside Brown's house turned up at MetroHealth, the news release said. Police took the victim's statement, which corroborated the evidence found at the house and contradicted Brown's story.
Police obtained a search warrant for Brown's house and found one gun and about one-half pound of marijuana.
In January 2013, Brown and his girlfriend were victims of an attempted home invasion robbery at the West 39th Street house. Two men tied up Brown and beat him, and his girlfriend called police. When officers arrived at the house, they found several weapons and a "significant volume of marijuana," police said.
Brown pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges in connection with that case.
More charges are expected to be filed, police said. The investigation continues.
If you'd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.
COLUMBUS Bethany Ernst and Jessie Nelson are making a killing onstage at least their characters are.
The Columbus High School students play two older women who are murdering people and burying them in their basement in the production of Arsenic and Old Lace.
Basically, we go around killing old men who dont have a family because we think it is very sad that they live by themselves. We think we are doing them a service, Ernst said.
The dark comedy will hit the stage 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday in Nantkes Performing Arts Center at the school. Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for students.
The story line centers on Mortimer Brewster, who learns his aunts Abby and Martha, played by Ernst and Nelson, respectively, have been offing people.
Gabe Moseman, who portrays Mortimer, said his character is one of three nephews in the play. His favorite part is after Mortimer discovers a body.
I find it and then try for the rest of the play to connect things and make it so they (his aunts) dont go to jail, he said.
Dawson Jurado has the part of another nephew, Jonathan Brewster, a character he said acts crazy. He is enjoying playing someone with such a personality.
Its nothing like me at all. It is a very interesting role to play to try to be very scary and intimidating when that is not me at all, he said.
Getting into their roles has been a welcome test for the students.
I keep thinking about my body language and my voice to act so many years older than I am. It is very challenging, Nelson said. Also, trying to act innocent this whole time is a challenge because we think we are doing something fine and that there is no problem with that at all.
For the past few years, the schools winter play has been focused more on drama. Theater teacher and director Maggie Brokaw wanted a change of pace.
We had a really lighthearted show in the fall and I wanted to continue that, but this is a dark comedy. The whole idea of it is that terrible things are happening, but the writing makes it funny and the physical acting makes it funny, she said.
This is the first time in a comedy for most of the performers. Brokaw said the genre has its challenges, but the students are handling them well.
Comedy is way harder than dramas because it is all about timing. Dramas can sometimes work a lot of that magic itself. With comedy, if you dont have the timing, the joke doesnt play right. The audience doesnt get it if you dont say a line correctly and the pun is gone, she said.
The rest of the cast and crew members are Jaina Ervin, Noah Stoeckle, Coden Prokopec, Joshua Reiff, Stacie Bugay, Reagan Gausman, Sam Martinez, Natalie Raimondo, Hannah Haynes, Maddi Louderback, Sean McDonald, Dan Kruger, Alyssa Hartman, Jaedyn Boesch, Kaitlynn Meyer, Viviana Velazquez, Megan Endorf, Monserrat Huitron Horta, Brian Long, Trey Miller, Clay Purkerson, Lydia Johnson, Erik Matson, McKayla Mueller, Haley Richey and Kaylyn Beyer.
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Preliminary plan for the Preserve at Quarry Lakes housing development in Amherst.
AMHERST, Ohio -- The first of 100 new houses designed for middle-class buyers will begin construction next week in the Preserve at Quarry Lakes development.
Shaun Brady, managing member of Cambrad Development of Westlake, said the first model home will be ready for viewing by June 1. He said people can start moving into the new homes in mid-summer.
"We're very proud of this development, which is meant for teachers, firemen, nurses and other people who want to live in Amherst but might not be able to afford it," he said. "These new homes will sell for $175,000 to $240,000, depending on the model, and we expect them to sell very quickly."
The development will be built on a 30-acre field behind the existing Quarry Lakes subdivision off Cooper Foster Park Road west of Ohio 58, right on the border of the city of Lorain.
Examples of the styles available in the Preserve at Quarry Lakes housing development under construction in Amherst.
Brady said 67 percent of the acreage would be preserved as green space.
The homes will be built over the next three years until all 100 are completed.
Amherst Mayor Mark Costilow said a development of this size is a welcome addition to the city of 12,000.
"It means more income tax revenue and some nice, new, affordable homes," he said. "It's being built in an area that was not being used, so for the city it is a definite improvement."
Brady said they will offer five different plans for one- and two-story homes to be built at the site by Ryan Homes.
Brady has been involved in numerous residential and commercial developments in Northeast Ohio since the 1990s. One of their better known is the medical and professional offices at the Avon Point Professional Campus off Route 83 in Avon.
Brady said they are looking at other developments in the city.
"City officials have been great to work with," he said. "We plan to look around for other areas for additional development."
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The University of Akron may become the site of a branch campus of the University of Mumbai.
(Karen Farkas, cleveland.com)
AKRON, Ohio - The University of Akron is discussing hosting a branch campus of the University of Mumbai in India.
UA President Matthew Wilson recently hosted representatives from India and held preliminary discussions about the potential location of branch facility, the university said.
UA is one of several options for 160-year-old university.
The University of Mambai's vice chancellor visited several potential locations in the United States, according to timesofindia.com. Options include buying a building in Manhattan or a university in Houston. If neither works out, there's an option to set up a facility within UA, the website said.
UA has offered a building to the school.
UA officials are likely to visit Mumbai in May to detail the plans, the website said.
"Last year, our Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics hosted students from the University of Mumbai in conjunction with a program focused on the U.S. election process and system," Wilson said in a statement. "Building on this successful joint program, we have engaged in discussions about expanding our relationship further on several fronts, including initial discussions about potentially housing the University of Mumbai on the UA campus in some form or fashion."
The university wants to develop the Center for International Students and Scholars and create an Institute for Global Education and Engagement to increase the number of international students.
"While much remains to be researched and explored, a closer relationship with the University of Mumbai will function as another valuable enhancement to our global footprint and our efforts to expand our international programming," Wilson said.
TECUMSEH Two inmates were killed Thursday during a riot at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution.
Damon Fitzgerald, 39, was serving 310 to 470 years for charges out of Douglas County including first-degree sexual assault, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, burglary and third-degree assault on a peace officer.
Michael Galindo, 31, was serving 12 to 21 years for attempted possession of a controlled substance and driving under suspension out of Buffalo and Scotts Bluff counties.
Corrections Director Scott R. Frakes said a prison staff member was assaulted earlier Thursday, before the disturbance began about 1 p.m.
Any loss of life is tragic," he said in a news release Friday morning. "The TSCI staff handled the situation extremely well, which limited the incident to a small number of participants and minimal damage."
It has been nearly two years since two inmates were killed at Tecumseh during the Mother's Day riot in 2015. The Thursday incident took place in the same housing unit badly damaged then.
And as in 2015, inmates set fires inside the unit and on the yard, but this time, damage was not extensive, the Corrections Department said.
Staff members reported a fire on a mini-yard connected to one of the housing units about 1:30 p.m., and about 40 inmates on the mini-yard and inside half of the housing unit were ordered to go to their cells but refused, the department said.
When it became clear it was unsafe, staff left the dayroom and secured the door leading to the rest of the housing unit.
Several altercations occurred between the inmates, and emergency response teams entered the area at 4:30 p.m. to secure it. Inmates set some fires in the housing unit.
On May 10, 2015, the maximum-security prison on the outskirts of Tecumseh in Johnson County was the scene of a riot that lasted two days and left two inmates beaten to death and two other injured. Nearly 20 prison workers were endangered and stranded in offices and the prison yard tower that day, and millions of dollars in damage at the maximum-security prison was caused by fires, broken windows and destruction of computers and cameras.
Understaffing and stress from mandatory overtime were among factors blamed in that Mother's Day riot. Since then, the Nebraska Legislature has investigated those problems and others.
No one has been charged in the deaths of sex offenders Shon Collins and Donald Peacock, but half a dozen men were charged in the fire and assaults.
Weve seen so many improvements over the last year and a half and I am proud of my team, said Tecumseh Warden Brad Hansen. This incident is a reminder that this is a dangerous business and we must remain vigilant as we keep people safe.
The Nebraska State Patrol is leading the criminal investigation and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal is conducting the investigation into the fires. Corrections staff and investigators will also conduct an internal critical incident review.
A Chinese aircraft carrier fleet operates during a training at South China Sea on December, 2016 in South China Sea, China. VCG | Getty Images
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"As the world's largest trader and the country with the most coastline along the South China Sea, we care about the safety and freedom of navigation more than any other country," he said, adding that the facilities China had built were necessary for defence and had contributed to navigational safety and rescue efforts. The US Carl Vinson aircraft carrier strike group was reportedly patrolling in the waters last week. And yesterday, a number of PLA Navy bombers, jet fighters and early warning aircraft flew east through international airspace above the Miyako Strait near Japan's Okinawa Island, conducting exercises with a Chinese naval fleet in the area, Xinhua reported. China has stepped up its naval presence in the Western Pacific, with the Liaoning aircraft carrier passing through the Miyako Strait last year before going through the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines.
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Guo Shuqing, chairman of the China Banking Regulatory Commission, attends a press conference at the State Council Information Office on March 2, 2017 in Beijing, China.
The Chinese banking regulator's newly appointed chief on Thursday brushed aside suggestions that he would spearhead a merger of the country's three financial industry watchdogs, describing the talk as "rumour".
In his first public appearance since taking on the top job at the China Banking Regulatory Commission last week, Guo Shuqing vowed to strengthen oversight of the sector, but stopped short of saying what his role would be in overhauling financial regulation.
"If you'd asked me about the ways to improve rural toilets, I would say I knew three ways; but you've asked me about my plans for banking regulation, and at present, I have none," he said.
More from the South China Morning Post:
How Liu He went from government researcher to Xi's right-hand man
China lashes out at Lotte Group for providing land for anti-missile system
The return of the change agent: meet the man set to shake up China's banking industry
Guo, who was named CBRC chairman after four years as governor of Shandong, tried to tamp down speculation that he would lead the nation's effort to merge the regulators for banking, securities and insurance.
When asked if he had any idea abouts a suitable financial regulatory model, Guo said: "I have been in my [new] office for just three days, and I really have had no time to think about the problem thoroughly.
"I have been working on the real economy for the last four years, and I haven't thought about financial regulation too much I need to learn from you as well."
The market is already pricing in a corporate tax cut, which means there could be trouble if those cuts don't get done, expert Robert Luna told CNBC on Thursday.
President Donald Trump has promised to slash the corporate rate from 35 percent to 15 percent, while the House Republican plan calls for a 20 percent corporate rate.
"If that's something that doesn't get passed, I think watch out below. A 10 to 15 percent correction is definitely something we're preparing our clients for," the chief investment officer for Surevest Wealth Management said in an interview with "Closing Bell."
Oliver Pursche, CEO of Bruderman Brothers, is also preparing his clients for such a move.
"The reality is that every day that passes, you get closer to a correction," he said. "That's OK because they're part of a natural cycle."
The market has soared since the election, but the rally took a pause on Thursday. For Luna, it's time to start looking at what to buy here and what to take off the table.
"Fear and greed are two of the most difficult emotions to judge in the market and I think we're getting to that point where you have to start looking at how greedy are people being. Valuations are a little bit stretched here," he said.
When it comes to what to buy, Luna said, "We're trying to find some industry-leading companies who maybe have been left out of this rally a little bit."
One name he's buying right now is Polaris , because of its good balance sheet and other "great things" going on with the company, he said.
Pursche would stay invested but reduce risk by focusing on high-quality balance dividends and stronger balance sheets.
"You reduce the risk by making sure that you are not using anything that's leveraged or that is too volatile. So you pair down the volatility but not the level of investments," Pursche told "Closing Bell."
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India's largest bank was blindsided by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's demonetization drive with daily business severely disrupted, the head of the lender said, but the outcome sees economy returning to "normalcy," and a surge in deposits from the cash swap has given more room on lending. "When we found out that 86 percent of the currency had been demonetized, the sheer size of the task was intimidating. On top of that, remember we had no arrangements ahead of time," Arundhati Bhattacharya, chairwoman of the State Bank of India (SBI), told CNBC's "Managing Asia." On Nov. 8 last year, India implemented a shock currency swap that required all 500 and 1,000 rupee notes be exchanged for new tender in 500 and 2,000 rupee denominations by the end of 2016. Nearly all transactions were handled through the banking system to meet the deadline. That put the spotlight on state-owned SBI as the top lender and with a footprint that stands to become even larger if it succeeds in a planned merger with five of its associate banks.
An Indian bank employee counts old 500 and 1000 rupee notes in Guwahati, the capital city of the north-eastern state of Assam on December 30, 2016. Biju Boro | AFP | Getty Images
"(Demonetization) caught the entire system off guard We had just 24 hours in which to set up exactly the processes by which we could do this move cash around the country, ensure that there were enough counters for people to come in and get their money exchanged, get our own people trained on how these things would be done. So a huge amount of activity," Bhattacharya said. Access to cash was restricted during the swap and and there were complaints the drive impacted the poor disproportionately. But Bhattacharya said the initial shocks of demonetization were gradually wearing off and the Indian economy was "very close" to returning to "normalcy." "I won't say it is 100 percent but mostly, I think things have come back and if you look at the amount of revenues that many of the companies are getting, many of them are quite surprised at the very sharp V-shaped recovery they've seen," Bhattacharya said. Discretionary spending might have decreased during the period, but this was because of the absence of a "mode of exchange" rather than diminished demand, Bhattacharya explained. "Once the mode of exchange came back in, the demand has picked up again," she added. The positive sentiment was reflected in better-than-expected Q4 GDP figures released Wednesday that showed a 7 percent growth rate for the quarter, although some experts cautioned against prematurely celebrating the beat. Going forward, the SBI chairwoman said she believed India would bounce back as the world's fastest growing economy "in another two quarters time."
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The "Fast Money" traders weighed the credit card and payment services space after to compete with recent offers by other credit card issuers.
The financial services company added perks to the card's rewards program, such as a $200 Uber credit and another $200 credit for airline fees.
Trader Guy Adami said he prefers and over , but he said the company has "figured out their woes." The stock is up 40 percent in the last 12 months.
Trader Brian Kelly said the brand is what gives American Express its value, but called it "a melting ice cube."
Trader Karen Finerman agreed, but said that it is an issue for further down the road. She said she likes MasterCard because of the company's growth. MasterCard's stock is up 10 percent in the last three months.
Kelly said the payment space is changing with companies like Venmo and PayPal , his stock of choice, becoming popular for transactions.
Trader Dan Nathan said American Express's branding and its ability to get enticing perks for customers is a plus. He said the company can overcome environmental changes because of Apple Pay and other electronic means for the card to get used with smartphones.
Disclosures:
Guy Adami is long CELG, EXAS, GDX, INTC. Adami's wife, Linda Snow, works at Merck.
Dan Nathan is Long spy May put spread, XIV long March call spread, JNJ long APR puts.
Brian Kelly is long Bictoin, SLV.
Karen Finerman is long AAL, BAC, BAC short calls, C, DAL, FB, FL, GLMP, GOGO, GOOG, GOOGL, JPM, URI, LYV, KORS, KORS calls, KORS puts, MA, SEDG, SPY puts, TACO, WIFI long call spreads. Her firm is long ANTM, BAC, C, C calls, FB, GOOG, GOOGL, JPM, JPM calls, KORS, LYV, MOH, PLCE, SPY puts, WIFI, her firm is short IWM, MDY. Karen Finerman is on the board of GrafTech International.
In 2015, when I sat down to read all of Warren Buffett's annual letters from the 10 years prior, the world was, shall we say, slightly less interesting. China was or was not in a slowdown, the U.S. stock market was or was not in a bubble and the EU was or was not collapsing. The only thing you can add to those issues above, two years down the line, is that some countries are more, shall we say, nationalistic.
Warren Buffett released the most recent version of his annual letter a few days ago, and I felt it would be a good time to update my learnings by reading the 2015 and 2016 annual letters. So, here goes the (mostly) non-obvious business and life lessons from reading 12 years of Berkshire Hathaway letters to its shareholders.
More from Seyi Fabode:
Technology, Attention Merchants & the Snap IPO.
How Old Companies Like Microsoft & IBM Continue To Win.
I Read 40 Books This Year, Here's What I Learned (aka 10 Lessons for 2017).
1. Enable the people around you and you'll be amazed at how far they'll take you (regardless of what the markets are doing)
As much as the letters are about the numbers and how portfolio companies are doing, a lot of text is dedicated to the people behind the numbers. Warren Buffett (and Charlie Munger) have perfected the art of empowering the right people to achieve phenomenal outcomes. It's unsurprising, it's the foundation of the relationship between these long term friends.
Most investors do not share anecdotes about the people who run their companies, anecdotes abound about Lorimer Davidson of GEICO, Ajit Jain, Tad Mantross, Ted Weschler, James Hambrick of Lubrizol, Frank Ptak of Marmon, etc. Warren Buffett considers himself a contractor hired to help these business experts.
With a mindset like this, his people have no choice but to be inspired to achieve the great things they continue to achieve. The same will serve you and your teams/employee well.
Banks have raked in nearly $1 trillion in profits since the financial crisis, but they paid a steep price along the way.
In total, financial institutions have paid $321 billion in fines related to the crisis, according to a study released this week by the Boston Consulting Group. U.S. banks have shouldered most of those costs, though global institutions also have been hit.
The release comes the same week the FDIC reported that bank profits surged to a record $171.3 billion in 2016, boosted by a best-ever $45.6 billion in the third quarter. The year's proceeds brought the total post-crisis net (measured from the third quarter of 2009) to $987.8 billion, according to FDIC records.
Nevertheless, the study notes that banks have paid heavily for the problems they created and face a tough landscape ahead.
"Managing these costs is a major burden for banks, requiring the creation of a strong non-financial-risk framework to avoid errors of the past," the Boston Consulting authors said.
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A high school in Mountain View, California, has made millions from Snap's initial public offering (IPO) less than four years after investing $15,000 in the Venice, California-based technology company. Saint Francis High School was one of the first investors in the company behind the ephemeral messaging app Snapchat, having invested a small proportion of its endowment fund in Snap Inc's seed round of financing in 2012. Snap made its trading debut Thursday at the New York Stock Exchange. It had priced its IPO of 200 million shares at $17 each but shortly after the opening bell stock began trading significantly higher, eventually closing at $24.48 per share up 44 percent on expectations. Saint Francis, a private Catholic school with annual tuition fees over $17,000, sold 1.4 million shares two thirds of its overall stake for $17 per share at Thursday's IPO.
Bobby Murphy, co-founder and chief technology officer at Snap Inc., from left, Evan Spiegel, co-founder and chief executive officer of Snap Inc., ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) with Tom Farley, president of the NYSE Group, during the company's initial public offering (IPO) in New York, U.S., on Thursday, March 2, 2017. Michael Nagle | Bloomberg | Getty Images
The school has not confirmed its overall return but it is estimated to have made nearly $24 million, according to officials cited by NBC. Simon Chiu, president of Saint Francis, announced the good news Thursday in a letter to parents. "The school's investment in Snap which this morning announced the completion of its IPO has matured and given us a significant boost as we continue our work towards realizing the bold vision and goals set out in our community-inspired strategic plan: leading with Hope & Zeal," noted Chiu in the letter. "This incredible boon will not, by itself, completely fund the goals of the strategic plan, but it will lay the necessary foundation and give us a remarkable head start," he added. The school first became involved in the technology firm in 2012 when Barry Eggers, a parent of two Saint Francis pupils and founding partner of venture capital firm Lightspeed Venture Partners, became intrigued by his children's use of the app.
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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks during a joint press conference with US President Donald Trump in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, February 13, 2017.
"There's always opportunities to improve trade deals. NAFTA has been improved a dozen times over the past 20 years," Trudeau told reporters at YPO Edge , a summit held in Vancouver, Canada of nearly 3,000 leaders from around the world. "We look forward to sitting down with President Trump to talk about how we can make sure that we are helping the middle class in both of our countries get good jobs and opportunities for themselves and their kids."
Still, he said he looks forward to working with Trump on expanding collaboration and "improving" the deal.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Friday that both the United States and Canada depend on the North American Free Trade Agreement, a deal repeatedly slammed by President Donald Trump .
"One of the central issues I've spoken repeatedly with the president and his administration on is the fact that it is good for the millions of jobs on both sides of the border between Canada and the United States that we have a close trading relationship."
Trump has called for a renegotiation of NAFTA, the deal implemented in 1994 that helped to make Canada and Mexico two of America's crucial trading partners, saying it has harmed American workers. Still, he has heavily suggested that he thinks the U.S. gets a worse deal from its southern neighbor Mexico than from Canada.
"We have a very outstanding trade relationship with Canada. We'll be tweaking it. We'll be doing certain things that are going to benefit both of our countries. It's a much less severe situation than what's taken place on the southern border," Trump said last month at a joint White House press conference with Trudeau.
Canada sends about 75 percent of its exports to the U.S. Canada was also the largest goods-export market for the U.S. in 2015, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
On Friday, Trudeau said the countries are "working together on expanding pre-clearance to strengthen security while also ensuring our businesses, our small business, our workers are able to benefit from the extraordinarily close collaboration, cooperation and even integration of our two economies."
Any major formal changes to NAFTA could take a while to happen.
1. U.S. acceptance of coexistence as the only alternative to atomic war.
2. U.S. willingness to capitulate in preference to engaging in atomic war.
3. Develop the illusion that total disarmament of the United States would be a demonstration of moral strength.
4. Permit free trade between all nations regardless of Communist affiliation and regardless of whether or not items could be used for war.
5. Extension of long-term loans to Russia and Soviet satellites.
6. Provide American aid to all nations regardless of Communist domination.
7. Grant recognition of Red China. Admission of Red China to the U.N.
8. Set up East and West Germany as separate states in spite of Khrushchev's promise in 1955 to settle the German question by free elections under supervision of the U.N.
9. Prolong the conferences to ban atomic tests because the United States has agreed to suspend tests as long as negotiations are in progress.
10. Allow all Soviet satellites individual representation in the U.N.
11. Promote the U.N. as the only hope for mankind. If its charter is rewritten, demand that it be set up as a one-world government with its own independent armed forces. (Some Communist leaders believe the world can be taken over as easily by the U.N. as by Moscow. Sometimes these two centers compete with each other as they are now doing in the Congo.)
12. Resist any attempt to outlaw the Communist Party.
13. Do away with all loyalty oaths.
14. Continue giving Russia access to the U.S. Patent Office.
15. Capture one or both of the political parties in the United States.
16. Use technical decisions of the courts to weaken basic American institutions by claiming their activities violate civil rights.
17. Get control of the schools. Use them as transmission belts for socialism and current Communist propaganda. Soften the curriculum. Get control of teachers' associations. Put the party line in textbooks.
18. Gain control of all student newspapers.
19. Use student riots to foment public protests against programs or organizations which are under Communist attack.
20. Infiltrate the press. Get control of book-review assignments, editorial writing, policymaking positions.
21. Gain control of key positions in radio, TV, and motion pictures.
22. Continue discrediting American culture by degrading all forms of artistic expression. An American Communist cell was told to "eliminate all good sculpture from parks and buildings, substitute shapeless, awkward and meaningless forms."
23. Control art critics and directors of art museums. "Our plan is to promote ugliness, repulsive, meaningless art."
24. Eliminate all laws governing obscenity by calling them "censorship" and a violation of free speech and free press.
25. Break down cultural standards of morality by promoting pornography and obscenity in books, magazines, motion pictures, radio, and TV.
26. Present homosexuality, degeneracy and promiscuity as "normal, natural, healthy."
27. Infiltrate the churches and replace revealed religion with "social" religion. Discredit the Bible and emphasize the need for intellectual maturity which does not need a "religious crutch."
28. Eliminate prayer or any phase of religious expression in the schools on the ground that it violates the principle of "separation of church and state."
29. Discredit the American Constitution by calling it inadequate, old-fashioned, out of step with modern needs, a hindrance to cooperation between nations on a worldwide basis.
30. Discredit the American Founding Fathers. Present them as selfish aristocrats who had no concern for the "common man."
31. Belittle all forms of American culture and discourage the teaching of American history on the ground that it was only a minor part of the "big picture." Give more emphasis to Russian history since the Communists took over.
32. Support any socialist movement to give centralized control over any part of the culture--education, social agencies, welfare programs, mental health clinics, etc.
33. Eliminate all laws or procedures which interfere with the operation of the Communist apparatus.
34. Eliminate the House Committee on Un-American Activities.
35. Discredit and eventually dismantle the FBI.
36. Infiltrate and gain control of more unions.
37. Infiltrate and gain control of big business.
38. Transfer some of the powers of arrest from the police to social agencies. Treat all behavioral problems as psychiatric disorders which no one but psychiatrists can understand.
39. Dominate the psychiatric profession and use mental health laws as a means of gaining coercive control over those who oppose Communist goals.
40. Discredit the family as an institution. Encourage promiscuity and easy divorce.
41. Emphasize the need to raise children away from the negative influence of parents. Attribute prejudices, mental blocks and retarding of children to suppressive influence of parents.
42. Create the impression that violence and insurrection are legitimate aspects of the American tradition; that students and special-interest groups should rise up and use united force to solve economic, political or social problems.
43. Overthrow all colonial governments before native populations are ready for self-government.
44. Internationalize the Panama Canal.
45. Repeal the Connally reservation so the United States cannot prevent the World Court from seizing jurisdiction over nations and individuals alike.
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President Trump's "America First Energy Plan" was initially perceived by the market to be bullish for energy, and perhaps his policies will be. Less regulation, more drilling and infrastructure plays sound like a plan to revive an industry plagued by lower oil prices the last two years. But the potential issue with the plan, especially at a time when the market is attempting a supply/demand rebalance, is that it could create an environment where supply dominates and oil prices decline. CNBC's exclusive oil survey polled 14 traders, analysts, and hedge fund managers on the administration's impact on oil prices, and about half said Trump is not bullish for oil prices. Pumping more oil without a reciprocal boost in demand is net-net bearish. "The Trump Administration is modestly bearish for prices of crude oil, but demonstrably bullish for domestic crude oil production," said Dennis Gartman, the founder of The Gartman Letter.
A motorist fills her car with gas at a gas station near an oil field pumping rig in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Getty Images
Domestic crude production is already on the rise, adding roughly half a million barrels a day since late last year to get the U.S. back over 9 million barrels a day, according to the U.S. Energy Information Agency. EIA data also shows that exports of both crude and refined products is rising. The expectation is that exports will continue to increase under President Trump.
How exports will impact the market is unclear. A little more than one-third of survey respondents said exporting more U.S. product could lower prices by putting domestic product in competition with global products. A little less than a third said oil prices could rise on increased exports, because global consumption creates demand. The remaining 40 percent said there would be no impact at all. Meantime, opinions are also mixed on how the proposed border adjustment tax might influence prices. Slightly more than half of those asked said prices would rise because there would be more demand for domestic crude if imports fell due to the tax. The remainder said there would be no impact, weren't sure, or thought prices could move lower.
Saudi Arabia is the key to the market right now. John Kilduff founding partner, Again Capital
Despite a more bearish view emerging about Trump policies and energy, 60 percent of those polled said oil prices will "rise." Roughly the same amount said the market is more likely to see $70 crude before it sees $30 oil. In terms of price targets, the majority of respondents think crude will be between $50 and $59 in June; $60-$69 by the end of 2017. OPEC's recent 1.8 million barrel per day cut has added some support to the market, but it shouldn't necessarily be seen as the only bullish factor. About a third of participants feel prices will stay flat when the cuts expire and more than half said they may drop, but only "modestly." Still, OPEC's relevance can't be disputed, especially as the Saudis look to offer an Aramco IPO possibly later this year. "Saudi Arabia is the key to the market right now. They have cut more than their commitment under the deal, carrying the load that is driving the high compliance rate. If [the Sauids] waver on IPO'ing Aramco or see a real loss of market share, they could decide to produce full-out, again in response," said John Kilduff, partner of Again Capital.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions said he'll recuse himself from any current or future investigations related to President Donald Trump's election campaign amid backlash over his testimony about contacts with Russia. (CNBC)
Campaign-finance records reportedly show that then-senator Sessions used a campaign account for expenses related to last summer's Republican National Convention in Cleveland, where he met Russia's ambassador at an event. (WSJ)
Meanwhile, at least two more Trump campaign advisors also spoke with the Russian ambassador in Cleveland in July, with several more Trump campaign officials in attendance. (USA Today)
The White House is proposing to cut a quarter of the EPA's budget, targeting climate-change programs and those designed to prevent air and water pollution like lead contamination. (Reuters)
Mexico's economy minister is set to meet executives from Ford (F) and General Motors (GM) in Detroit today, as part of a visit designed to talk up the benefits of Nafta, which Trump wants to renegotiate. (FT)
Vice President Mike Pence used a private email account to conduct public business as governor of Indiana. Pence blasted Hillary Clinton for a similar practice when she was secretary of State. (Reuters)
Snap (SNAP) shares were continuing to climb in the premarket after soaring 44 percent on their debut. But Atlantic Equities downgraded the stock, a day after Pivotal Research initiated with a sell rating. (CNBC)
Caterpillar (CAT) was under continued pressure after slumping 4 percent Thursday on news that authorities searched three of its facilities. After the bell, the company said it believed the searches were related to a Swiss subsidiary. (AP)
Boeing (BA) unions confirmed earlier reports that the aircraft maker was offering voluntary buyouts, saying more than 1,880 workers have accepted buyout packages. (Reuters)
Costco (COST) missed estimates by a wide margin with quarterly earnings and also fell short on revenue. The warehouse retailer also announced plans to raise membership fees, effective June 1. (CNBC)
Uber plans to comply after all with California regulations and seek permits to put its self-driving cars back on state roads. It's an about-face following the company's legal fight with state officials in December. (Reuters)
Spotify has reached 50 million paid subscribers, growing 25 percent in less than six months and extending the Swedish music streaming service's lead over its closest rival, Apple Music. (Reuters)
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Check out which companies are making headlines before the bell:
Shares of the warehouse retailer were under pressure after the company missed estimates with its latest numbers and announced plans to raise its membership fees. Costco earned $1.17 per share for its latest quarter, 19 cents shy of forecasts, while revenue was very slightly below estimates.
The discount retailer reported adjusted quarterly profit of $2.26 per share, beating estimates by 4 cents, though revenue was slightly below forecasts. Same-store sales were up 0.3 percent, shy of the consensus Thomson Reuters estimate of 1.2 percent.
Citi upgraded the travel website operator's stock to "neutral" from "sell," expressing more confidence in Expedia's ability to grow its hotel business.
Citi began coverage on the high-definition camera maker with a "sell" rating, citing market saturation and an overall decline for standalone imaging products.
The beverage maker was upgraded to "buy" from "hold" at Jefferies, based largely on hopes for its November acquisition of Bai Brands and its antioxidant-infused beverages.
Autodesk lost 28 cents per share for its latest quarter, smaller than the 34 cent loss forecast by analysts. Revenue beat forecast, but the business software maker is forecasting a bigger than expected current quarter loss. However, the company said its moves to control costs and continue its shift to a subscription-only model are going well.
WPP cut its sales forecast for this year, with the world's largest advertising company citing a very competitive ad market.
Lockheed is holding conversations with the governments of Spain, Switzerland, and Belgium about potential sales of its F-35 fighter jets.
Caterpillar is on watch for a second day, after the stock fell Thursday on news that law enforcement officials had searched three of its facilities. In a statement issued after the Thursday closing bell, the heavy equipment maker said it believed the searches were related to profits earned by a Swiss parts subsidiary.
Boeing unions confirmed earlier reports that the aircraft maker was offering voluntary buyouts, saying more than 1,800 workers have accepted buyout packages.
, The drugmakers struck a joint venture deal to develop a vaccine for lower respiratory tract illness.
Snap had a successful IPO debut, finishing its first day of trading at $24.48 per share after pricing at $17. Atlantic Equities has downgraded the stock to "underweight" from "neutral," citing valuation, a day after Pivotal Research initiated coverage with a "sell" rating and set a $10 price target.
Kroger was removed from the "Conviction Buy" list at Goldman Sachs, with the firm citing increasing competition for the supermarket operator, although Goldman is maintaining a "buy" rating on the stock.
Fed Vice Chair Stanley Fischer cautioned against binding the central bank to rules when it comes to making decisions on monetary policy.
His speech on Friday, however, avoided any direct comment on monetary policy at a time when most of the market expects the central bank to approve a rate hike later this month.
Fischer's comments instead went to a philosophical and political question likely to come up in the days ahead regarding the Fed's deliberation process and ultimately why it chooses to act. A movement afoot in Congress seeks to tie the Fed to policymaking that adheres to rules, or to explain itself when choosing to deviate from selected yardsticks.
History has shown that policy is more efficient when committees deliberate rather than stick to specific triggers for policy, Fischer said in a speech at the U.S. Monetary Policy Forum in Chicago.
"Committees and rules each have their advantages. Committees embody a wider range of information and have a capacity for innovation," he said in his prepared remarks.
Rules have their place, he added, but should be employed as part of a discussion, not as the last word, for critical policy decisions.
"Rules can simplify central bank communications, a particularly important feature in forward-looking models of the economy," Fischer said.
"Putting it all together, committees are, on average, likely to make better monetary policy decisions than individuals an assertion that has received support from academic experiments in which undergraduate students played a part," he added.
The far-right candidate in the French presidential election has been embroiled in two investigations, but that hasn't and will not impact her campaign, the Front National's project coordinator told CNBC on Friday.
The European Parliament lifted Marine Le Pen's immunity earlier this week, which allows French authorities to question her over the publication of aggressive ISIS photos on Twitter. At the same time, there are investigations into her party's alleged misuse of European funds. However, both cases do not seem to have impacted her polling numbers, as similar events did for other candidates.
"There will not be any consequence regarding the democratic evolution of the election because as you see the figures of Marine Le Pen regarding the polls are still very high despite all this judicial news coming from the European Parliament," Jean Messiha, Marine Le Pen's project coordinator at Front National, told CNBC on Friday.
He added that there's "a political agenda" behind these cases.
Most polls have indicated that Marine Le Pen will win the first round of the election. The latest projections point to about 26 percent of the votes for the Front National in the first ballot. However, they have also shown that she's set to lose the second round of the election.
Here's another possible consequence of repealing the Affordable Care Act: It would be harder for many people to retire early.
Americans reaching 65 become eligible for Medicare. Before reaching that age, some can get retiree coverage from their former employers. But not very many companies, especially small ones, offer medical insurance to retirees. If early retirees are poor enough, they could turn to Medicaid. To retire early, everybody else would need to turn to the individual health insurance market. Without the subsidies and protections the A.C.A. put in place, health care coverage would be more difficult to obtain, cost consumers more where available, and provide fewer benefits than it does today.
That means that if the A.C.A. is repealed, retiring early would become less feasible for many Americans.
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This consequence is called job lock the need to maintain a job to get health insurance. One of the arguments in favor of the A.C.A. was that it would reduce or eliminate job lock. With repeal of the law on the agenda of Congress and President Trump, there is renewed concern about how health insurance could affect employment and retirement decisions.
These relationships have been examined extensively by scholars. Though not all studies have found evidence of job lock in the pre-Obamacare era, a majority of high-quality studies have. That's the conclusion of systematic reviews conducted by the Government Accountability Office and several health economists.
Because people approaching retirement age are more prone to illness and high health care costs, employment-based insurance is particularly valuable to older workers so much so that many studies document that it influences retirement decisions. One study found that workers whose employers offered retiree health benefits were 68 percent more likely to retire early than those who lack employer-based retiree coverage.
Another study found a smaller effect, 47 percent. But that study also found that workers in poor health who had retiree health benefits were 88 percent more likely to retire early compared with similar workers lacking retiree health benefits. Both those studies used data that are now several decades old. But a 2014 study that incorporated more recent data though still pre-A.C.A. also found that retiree health benefits encourage early retirement. The inference from these studies is that coverage options in the A.C.A. marketplaces would similarly encourage early retirement.
Deferring retirement because of health benefits is just one form of job lock. Another example: Many studies show that spouses are much more likely to work if their partners do not have employer-based family coverage. Other studies show that workers with cancer are more likely to continue working if that's how they get health insurance.
Two studies led by Cathy Bradley of Virginia Commonwealth University examined working women with breast cancer diagnoses. Both studies found that those who depended on their employment for coverage were more likely to remain working.
If not for job lock, we'd probably see greater job mobility and entrepreneurship. According to one analysis, two million more people would change jobs if it weren't for job lock presumably finding work that makes them happier or that is better suited for them. One study found that 25-to-55-year-old married men with no other coverage options are 22.5 percent less likely to switch jobs compared with those who have alternatives. Another study, examining 24-to-35-year-old married men, estimated smaller effects, between 10 and 15 percent.
The evidence of sticking with jobs instead of starting a business is mixed, but the preponderance of it suggests this kind of "entrepreneurship lock" exists, affecting up to four million people. Workers without coverage from a spouse therefore, more reliant on their own employers' coverage are a few percentage points less likely to become self-employed, according to one study. Similarly, self-employment spikes when workers turn 65 and obtain Medicare coverage.
From the late 1980s to the early 2000s, tax deductibility of policies for self-employed workers was phased in, making those policies more affordable. Two studies provide evidence that this change increased self-employment. One found that it rose 10 percent among women without health coverage from a spouse versus those with such coverage. Another found that the tax change explained as much as half the total increase in self-employment between 1999 and 2004.
All of these studies suggest that job lock would be alleviated by more available and affordable coverage outside work. Whether Obamacare did that is less clear. Many policy experts expected the A.C.A. to reduce job lock. An analysis by the Urban Institute, conducted before the health insurance reforms were implemented, estimated that the self-employed would increase by about 1.5 million individuals as a result of the law. In 2014, the Congressional Budget Office anticipated that the A.C.A. would reduce the size of the labor force by at least two million people by 2024.
One post-A.C.A. study found that the prohibition of pre-existing condition exclusions for children increased job mobility for their parents. And in the months after the insurance market reforms rolled out, voluntary part-time work increased and the growth in the number of workers over age 55 slowed, both consistent with alleviation of job lock. But more rigorous studies of part-time work did not find an impact from the A.C.A.
According to a review of scientific papers by the economists Jean Abraham and Anne Royalty, for the University of Pennsylvania's Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, few other studies have found solid evidence that the A.C.A. reduced job lock or had other effects on the labor market. For instance, studies have not found that allowing children to stay on their parents' insurance until age 26 has influenced the labor market choices of young adults. Nor have they found that the A.C.A. increased early retirement or employment more generally.
One reason studies might not have found an impact on job lock could be because the law is relatively new, and there isn't enough data available to researchers to tease out all its effects. It could also be because the law has been under siege on multiple fronts since passage, rendering its status uncertain. This may have raised doubts in workers' minds about the wisdom of relying on it as a substitute for employer-offered coverage.
But it is clear that with A.C.A. repeal on the table, people contemplating early retirement may need to reconsider.
When Donald Trump was announced the winner of the 2016 presidential election, I said I was going to wait and see what happens. People promise all kinds of things when they run for office. President Obama vowed to close Gitmo. President HW Bush said "read my lips, no more taxes." So I gave President Trump a chance. But his plans to have the DEA come into states like Colorado where marijuana is legal and tell legal recreational marijuana users that they are breaking federal law and therefore must be prosecuted? Not on my watch.
It is completely wrong and unethical not to mention unconstitutionalto reverse state law just because you feel like it. Shame on President Trump for even considering this.
Donald Trump ran his campaign as "a man of the people." Someone who vowed to end the corporate takeover of our government; someone who vowed to bring jobs back. Reversing state law and making legalized recreational marijuana illegal is going against the people's will. This is going against job creation and a reliable part of a state's economy. The citizens of these states voted to make recreational marijuana legal. It wasn't the politicians, it was We The People. The latest Gallup Poll shows 60 percent of Americans want legal marijuana! Obviously President Trump is following in the footsteps of every president that came before him: He thinks the government knows what is best for us. He's been president for a little over a month, and he's already forgotten that "We the People" are the government!
I'm sending President Trump a copy of my book "Jesse Ventura's Marijuana Manifesto" because he and Sean Spicer aren't getting their information about marijuana from scientific studies. In what world does marijuana use lead to opioid addiction? I have a list of scientific studies that I cite in my bookmost of which I pulled directly from the National Institutes of Health's National Library of Medicinethat show the exact opposite. Marijuana is used in rehab settings to successfully curb alcohol, cocaine, meth, heroin and opioid addiction.
Alabama farmer David Bailey tosses hay to one of his remaining cows, in Dawson, Ala. Bailey had to sell off half of his cattle herd, more than 100 animal due to drought, because he doesn't have enough hay to feed them through the winter.
Roughly one-fifth of the U.S. cattle inventory is within areas facing drought, including dire conditions that have led some livestock producers to sell off herds early due to the lack of hay.
Some ranchers in parched areas of the Central Plains and Southern regions have relocated cattle herds to lands with greener pastures or where water is more available.
"We're just hoping for the rain to come and make it to the next cycle," said Monte Tucker, who runs a farming and ranching operation in Sweetwater, Oklahoma.
A Great Plains drought from 2011-2013 led to a herd liquidation phase of the cattle cycle, eventually resulting in the lowest U.S. cattle levels since the early 1950s. Cattle prices rose to lofty levels after the cow supply fell but the herd rebuilding phase has been underway for several years, pressuring prices.
As a result, cow-calf producers such as Tucker those operators breeding cattle with plans to sell the offspring to feedlots are getting squeezed with lower prices than they were getting just a few years ago. He also grows wheat and said the business is generally tougher for farmers due to the rising costs of equipment, fertilizers and other needed agricultural inputs.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 75 percent of Oklahoma is in moderate or more severe drought, based on figures released Thursday. Oklahoma ranks fifth in the nation in terms of cattle population.
The drought percentages are calculated by the U.S. Drought Monitor but based on a report published by the USDA.
Arkansas, Alabama and Georgia are three livestock-producing states with more extreme drought conditions. Nearly 60 percent of Alabama has drought conditions, and some farmers are selling off their cattle herd to cope.
Nationally, 19 percent of the cattle herd is located in areas with moderate or severe drought conditions, according to the USDA report. At the end of January 2016, the percentage of the nation's cattle herd in drought areas was just 11 percent.
"It seems to be upticking right now," said Brad Rippey, an agricultural meteorologist with the USDA. "The Central and Eastern United States has had this incredibly warm late winter, or January-February period."
The meteorologist said the core of the drought stretches from Alabama through the Southern Appalachians. He said some of the areas received winter rain but added that the "drought recovery was far from complete."
Rippey said in some drought areas where winter wheat is raised for cattle feed there have been reports that herds have been pulled off the wheat early to protect the development of the crop. "Pulling cattle from a natural feed source early could increase feeding costs because you have to supplementary feed them," he said.
Even so, Tucker said the low prices for wheat crop make sometimes still make it economical for cattle ranchers to continue to graze herds on wheat "because it's worth more to put it through the calf than out in through the combine."
Tucker, a fourth-generation farmer, recalls the 2011-2013 drought. Back then, he said some ranchers to sold their herds and looked for jobs in the oil and gas industry.
"We were really fortunate that the oil and gas industry was really booming back then," said Tucker. "Now the oil and gas industry is in kind of a slump, so it's going to be a little bit tougher this time around because those jobs are few and far between."
That said, Tucker considers himself "very fortunate and blessed" because rains a while back allowed him to grow about two years' worth of hay. He's also been able to beat the drought somewhat using well water, while other ranchers are not so lucky.
"Guys east of me are feeling the pinch a little harder," he said. "They have run out of water and right now they're moving cattle."
Texas, another major cattle state, has drought conditions too but not as severe as other states in the region. The Texas drought region is concentrated mostly the northeast portion of the state and represents only 5 percent of the state.
Elsewhere, Kansas and Missouri have at least 50 percent of the state in drought conditions. Colorado also makes the list with at least 40 percent of the state in mostly moderate drought.
While the Plains, Southeast and parts of the Northeast have drought conditions, Rippey said the West "is looking fantastic" in terms of drought.
Indeed, California's drought is largely gone but January and February storms caused flooding and heavy winds that have led to impacts to the state's agriculture.
The California Farm Bureau reported this week that one almond orchard grower in San Joaquin County experienced flooding three times in one month. Storms also caused wind damage to walnut and almond trees in the state.
Flooding from February storms brought heavy rains to Northern and Central California, resulting in several dairies relocating cows in low-lying areas along the Tuolumne and San Joaquin rivers.
Finally, vegetable and fruit harvesting last month slowed in northern and southern portions of the state due to muddy fields. A warming trend in parts of California allowed some areas to dry out this week, although rain is forecast over the weekend in several regions.
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When Exxon Mobil's new CEO spoke to Wall Street this week, high on his list of growth opportunities were the nontraditional oil fields in the United States, where the diversified energy giant can make a profit even when crude prices are just $40 per barrel. For the multinational Exxon, which invested globally in more expensive, deepwater and other long-term projects, the focus on its home base highlights how much U.S. oil majors see American production as a brighter part of the future. A big chunk of Exxon's upstream spending will go to shale this year. "More than one third of the capex [capital and exploration spending] will be invested in advancing our large inventory of short-cycle opportunities. They are primarily Permian and Bakken unconventional plays and short-cycle conventional work programs. This component of our investment plan is expected to generate positive cash flow less than three years after initial investment," CEO Darren Woods told analysts. Woods' comments resonate across the U.S. oil sector, where domestic producers have been restarting operations as oil prices hold steadily in the $50-per-barrel range. Producers large and small are also reassessing capital and exploration spending and cautiously returning to develop projects, but the U.S. shale industry has also become more efficient during the industry downturn. "I think what you're seeing is the shale play was totally without majors," said Randy Foutch, founder and CEO of Laredo Petroleum , pointing back to a time years back when the majors were land holders but not such active players. "Chevron has a big position in the Permian, and Exxon just bought a new position. That's the kind of proof of the pudding that the independents like myself are saying, 'It's the best basin the world.'" Laredo is active in the eastern part of the Permian, in the Midland Basin. Like many in the industry, Foutch has found efficiencies during the oil-price downturn. In the last two years, drilling has improved so much, individual Laredo rigs are drilling 2.5 times more than they used to. "I don't think it's a question of getting back to the rig count we had. I would suggest we expand our activity more dramatically," he said. Chevron says it has about 2 million net acres of resources in the Permian Basin, and Occidental Petroleum is also a big player. Independents Concho , Pioneer Natural Resources and Apache are also active there. "The Permian has been around for a long, long time. It never left the stage, but its career has been relaunched. They understand the geology better, and there's a lot more oil to unlock there. It's the repercussion of the great revolution and the drilling that took place and everything that's been learned over the last decade. This is part of the reaction that we're seeing in the global oil market," said Jim Burkhard, vice president and head of oil market research at IHS Markit.
World energy summit
Foutch, Woods and other CEOs of majors and independents alike are heading to Houston next week for the annual CERAWeek by IHS Markit energy conference. Other speakers at the conference include the oil ministers of Saudi Arabia, India, Russia and Iraq, among others. The Permian Basin in Texas is certainly expected to be a big topic. The Bakken in North Dakota is also making a comeback, but the promise of much more oil to come from the Permian has been the buzz of the oil industry this year. Earlier this year, Exxon bought about 225,000 net acres in the Permian from the Bass Brothers of Fort Worth. Shale has also become the swing producer for global oil markets, and it is proving resilient with the swift return of U.S. production. The United States has produced more than 9 million barrels a day in the last several weeks, and IHS expects it to add back another 600,000 barrels a day by year end, bringing it close to its 2015 peak. "It's Permian-ania," said Daniel Yergin, vice chairman of IHS Markit, of what is now the hottest basin in the United States. Yergin said he expects the industry to discuss how it is increasing capital and exploration spending, but the word from CEOs of oil majors will likely be that the emphasis is on short-cycle versus long-cycle projects. "More prominent in this year's program will be that they are raising capex, but it's cautious," said Yergin. "It [spending] really peaked in 2014 and then just plummeted. It's picking up cautiously. It's notably picked up in the U.S. It's mainly projects being completed,' Yergin said.
Exploration 2.0
Exxon, for instance, said it is slightly increasing capex spending from the $19 billion level in 2016, which was off sharply from $30 billion the year earlier. "In 2017 we expect to spend $22 billion. This allows us to advance investments and adjust, either up or down, to commodity prices, price conditions and cash flow. We anticipate the average annual budget through the end of the decade will be around $25 billion," Woods told analysts Wednesday. Exxon Mobil has 5,500 wells in the Permian that return 10 percent or better, with oil at $40 per barrel. "A large chunk of those wells will make higher than 10 percent. ... It's a very prolific play. We're very excited about the opportunity in the Permian," Woods told CNBC. Woods said the shale plays help add flexibility to Exxon's range of oil holdings. "Our view on the oil price is there's still a lot of uncertainty in the marketplace, so while we have seen prices go up in the short term, we're not building our investment campaign based on the assumption those prices are going to be there forever," he said. "One of the advantages we have with this recent acquisition that we did in the Permian is we have a much bigger portfolio of short-cycle investments. That gives us the flexibility to move as the market moves, and raise our investment levels up to match what we see as opportunities in the marketplace." Exxon, which produces about 4 million barrels a day of oil equivalents, expects Permian and other shale plays to grow to about 800,000 barrels a day by 2025 from just under 200,000. Chevron, which will also be at the CERAWeek conference, announced a fourth year of cuts in capital and exploration spending last December. It said of the $19.8 billion it will spend this year, about $8.5 billion of planned capital spending relates to base-producing assets, which includes about $2.5 billion for shale and tight investments, mostly in the Permian.
Future outlook
Crude oil prices are being pumped by OPEC's production cuts, but they are at risk of being knocked down by a gusher of new U.S. shale drilling. OPEC and non-OPEC producers, like Russia, agreed in December to take 1.8 million barrels of crude off the world market. As a result, they have kept the price of oil in the $50s per barrel even with a supply glut, most apparent in the United States. At the same time, U.S. drillers, emboldened by the higher oil price, are drilling at the highest rate in more than a year and look on track to go back to record levels by year-end. All of these principals the Saudis, other Gulf producers, Russians, Brazilians, Mexicans, big oil and U.S. shale drillers will meet in Houston starting Monday, Mar. 6, on panels, at dinners and in the hallways of the annual CERAWeek by IHS Markit energy conference. The question now is who will blink first?
Russia's Energy Minister Alexander Novak (L) and Saudi Arabia's Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih. Heinz-Peter Bader | Reuters
OPEC meets again in May and will consider whether to extend the deal. Then there's Russia, the world's largest energy producer, which has certainly been helped by price stability but is still feeling the pain wrought by crashing prices. There's also the U.S. shale industry. It's no longer a bunch of upstarts, but a cadre of the world's largest integrated oil producers alongside independent drillers, all eyeing unconventional drilling as a way to get quicker returns with lower costs on shorter horizon projects. The industry also has new vigor, with President Donald Trump setting a pro-hydrocarbon agenda from the White House, encouraging more drilling and construction of energy infrastructure, including the controversial Keystone and Dakota Access pipelines.
Dealing with a US hydrocarbon bounty
One of the hottest stories this year is the bounty of the Permian Basin, which runs beneath Texas and New Mexico and offers a new prosperity to the likes of even an Exxon Mobil , which can profit with $40 oil because of technological drilling advances pioneered by the U.S. industry. "This is the push/pull of the market," said Helima Croft, head of global commodities strategy at RBC Capital Markets. "I think OPEC is hoping that this remains largely a Permian story. ... That a lot of the cost deflation we saw will rise as prices rise. Service companies will again charge more. There's a sort of uncertain equilibrium they have to deal with in U.S. production. They hope it will remain largely Permian, but it could get away from them and require deeper cuts. I don't think the problem is compliance within OPEC, because the Saudis will do what it takes." Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak speaks Monday, and Saudi Arabia energy minister Khalid Al-Falih participates Tuesday. "That was a key relationship for the dialogue they made for this OPEC, non-OPEC agreement, which really hasn't happened before, and the compliance is higher than it's been in the past," said Daniel Yergin, vice chairman of IHS Markit. "I think they're committed to this deal, and that's one of the main things they want to convey," Yergin said. Analysts say the real issue is what Saudi Arabia and Russia say about future enforcement and whether they are ready to embrace extension of the six-month production deal in the face of new output from the United States.
Certainly, the Permian and unconventional play brings a new dimension to the marketplace, and it's just a question of how OPEC intends to respond to that. Darren Woods Exxon Mobil chairman and CEO
Saudi Arabia has been shouldering the largest portion of cuts. As the world's biggest exporter, it is the key driver of OPEC policy, and it's not clear how much pressure it will take on prices if the United States continues to up production. The United States, in fact, has been producing 9 million barrels a day recently. It has had a number of days this winter where it was exporting record levels of oil, at more than 1 million barrels a day. Some analysts see a collision coming between shale and OPEC if the U.S. industry puts enough oil on the market to push the price below $50. Exxon Mobil chairman and CEO Darren Woods told CNBC this week that OPEC has the lever of low costs, while the unconventional drilling business is driven by economics and market prices. OPEC turned to the new production-driven strategy after a failed plan to let the market set prices. That resulted in oil collapsing into the $20s per barrel after Russia and members of the OPEC kept pumping at record levels. "Well, you've seen OPEC make a difference in the market here in the short term. Certainly, the Permian and unconventional play brings a new dimension to the marketplace, and it's just a question of how OPEC intends to respond to that," Woods recently told CNBC. "You saw earlier on, their response was to continue to keep production up. The market got oversupplied. Prices came down. They've now backed off of that. You see unconventionals coming back up again. I think the market is still in a bit of discovery, trying to understand how that conventional play fits in with more of the traditional dynamics," Woods said. Woods speaks at CERAWeek on Monday. Yergin said an issue for the U.S. industry is how long the price of drilling services will remain low, a big factor in helping drilling ramp up after prices and activity fell sharply.
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Investing more to reduce regional disparities and to mobilise regions and cities to create opportunities for citizens should be the key answer to the challenges of the post-Brexit scenario. This was the main message shared by members of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) at a meeting in Warsaw on 2 March with the European Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Cretu and the ministers for development from the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia as well as Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania and Slovenia.
Cohesion policy worth 454bn until 2020 is by far the largest investment tool of the EU, supporting inclusive and smart growth in every European region. It reduces development gaps, spreads innovation and enhances the competitiveness of the EU economies by involving EU institutions, national governments as well as local and regional authorities.
Nonetheless, EU regions and cities fear that the crucial objective of economic, social and territorial cohesion could be undermined in the EU budget post 2020, which is due to be proposed by the European Commission by the end of 2017. The main risks are linked to the impact of Brexit on the resources available as well as to attempts to centralise the management of EU's investment decisions, to replace subsidies with loans, and to divert resources to different priorities such as migration, external border management and support for structural reforms.
A day after the presentation of the European Commission White Paper on the Future of the EU, these concerns were discussed in Warsaw by members of the CoR's Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy and EU Budget (COTER). "A strong Cohesion Policy, showing the benefits and solidarity of the EU at local and regional level, is decisive to address the current cycle of despair and disengagement. Our message from Warsaw is that the objective of economic, social and territorial cohesion is a key element for the future of Europe," said COTER's chairman, Raffaele Cattaneo (EPP/IT), President of the Regional Council of Lombardy.
In Warsaw, local leaders discussed and adopted a draft opinion on the future of Cohesion Policy after 2020 , prepared by the President of the EPP Group in the CoR, Michael Schneider, Saxony-Anhalt's Secretary of State for EU Affairs.
"No other EU or national policy can achieve what Cohesion Policy has helped to create in countries such as Poland or Germany in the past decades. It is one of the EU policies that has truly an impact on the everyday lives of our citizens, by creating opportunities and support for jobs, growth contributing to a sense of Europeanness in an age of growing populism. That is why we must ensure that Cohesion Policy remains 'the' investment tool of the European Union, supported in synergy by other funds and grants such as the European Fund for Strategic Investments or Horizon 2020," Mr Schneider emphasised.
European Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Cretu said: "Over the last months, we have heard more and more citizens tell us 'We feel politicians and institutions do not care about us, we feel left out!' Therefore, it is time to give them a strong signal. Our message to them must be that Europe cares. And what better way to prove it than through Cohesion Policy? Cohesion Policy's aim is to leave no one behind, to improve everybody's daily life. This is why we must fight for it and for its future as it is our common future. Jobs and growth through Cohesion Policy, yes; but jobs and growth for all, for all regions. "
"Poland and specifically the Mazovia Region is a perfect place to reflect on the impact of Cohesion Policy, both on the stronger and on the weaker regions of Europe, and on what is at stake for the Union," said Adam Struzik (EPP/PL), President of the hosting Region of Mazovia.
The meeting was held in parallel with a ministerial gathering of the Visegrad Group+4, at which ministries for economic development from the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia as well as Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania and Slovenia adopted a document stressing the vital role of Cohesion Policy for the future of the EU.
"The Joint Paper of the Visegrad Group and their closest partners (V4+4) confirms that we have common ideas on the future of Cohesion Policy. It's very important that in the ongoing European debate we can speak with one voice," said Mateusz Morawiecki, the Deputy Prime Minister of Poland and Minister of Economic Development and Finance.
"Cohesion Policy must be reformed in a way to remain in the interest of all EU Member States and regions and be an important, useful instrument for the achievement of the EU's strategic long-term goals, while promoting issues of key importance for particular regions," added Deputy Minister of Economic Development Jerzy Kwiecinski.
At a high-level conference held on 3 March, experts and practitioners exchange views on how to simplify the EU's Cohesion Policy while making it more effective and more responsive to the needs of local economies.
The CoR will discuss and adopt its opinion on the future of Cohesion Policy at its plenary session on 10 May.
Note for editors
The EU's Cohesion Policy is implemented over a seven-year cycle (2014-20) through five European Structural and Investment Funds (ESI funds):
European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) : promotes balanced development in the EU's regions.
European social fund (ESF) : supports employment-related projects throughout Europe and invests in Europes human capital its workers, its young people and all those seeking a job.
Cohesion Fund (CF): funds transport and environment projects in countries whose gross national income (GNI) per inhabitant is less than 90% of the EU average. In 2014-20, these are Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.
European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) : focuses on resolving the particular challenges facing the EU's rural areas.
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF): helps fishermen to adopt sustainable fishing practices and coastal communities to diversify their economies, improving the quality of life on Europe's seaboard.
The total allocations for 2014-20 are 454bn from the EU budget, matched by 183bn from national funds. With a total value of 638bn, Cohesion Policy is the Europe's main investment tool. It is managed in partnership by the European Commission, national governments and regions. More than 176bn have already been invested in the real economy of the EU since the beginning of the current programming period. For more information and country-specific trends and figures, please consult the Cohesion Open Data Portal.
Pictures can be found on the CoR's Flickr account .
Contact:
Pierluigi Boda (IT, EN)
Tel: +32 2 282 2461
Mobile: +32 473 85 17 43
pierluigi.boda@cor.europa.eu
The Hollywood Reporter says the Disney CEO is also considering a run, with a lot of nudging by his friends to put those Mickey Mouse ears on the White House. As a business leader widely believed to have fixed a governance mess at Disney when he took over, Iger seems like a logical choice to jump into politics. And who couldn't love a guy who's brought us all the popular pieces of the Magic Kingdom for so long?
The answer could be the voters. It's not that they'd hate Iger, it's just that you have to do more than have a strong resume to win elections. A candidate has to be persuasive and compelling to listen to and watch. Iger isn't a bad speaker, but he's no show-stopper. And he also hasn't ever had to face the kind of scrutiny a successful politician must endure to win an election. Remember, President Trump is in the White House now in many ways despite his CEO experience, not because of it.
3) Howard Schultz
The timing seems to be right for the Starbucks founder and CEO as he prepares to leave the company in time to mount a presidential campaign. In an interview with CNN Money last fall, he didn't rule out a run. And unlike most CEOs, including Iger, he's been an outspoken pundit on political issues and debates for a long time on live TV. He's a better speaker than Iger and even DiCaprio. And there's another factor very much in Schultz's favor: Geography. The unique 50 state reach of the Starbucks chain and Schultz's familiarity with those regions is reminiscent of the invaluable experience Ronald Reagan gained when he spent years touring General Electric plants across the country and getting to know how to connect with an eclectic array of Americans from all those regions.
But Starbucks is no Disney. Sure, half the country seems to be addicted to the product, but it's a company a lot of people truly hate and Schultz is the founder. He's also gone from promoting himself as an independent centrist to becoming much more of a liberal Democrat. That's fine for types like Senator Bernie Sanders, but CEO/outsider candidates do best when they present themselves as being outside the typical left/right divide.
2) Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey just refused to rule out running for the White House in a televised interview. Winfrey is so loved and revered by a significant segment of the population that she would be a formidable candidate for president even if she weren't also a billionaire with a massive media messaging machine at her disposal. This is especially true among white and black women, bridging a divide that made a profound difference in the 2016 election when President Trump won the white female vote. Her political clout is also enormous and has even been calculated by economists who believe her endorsement of Barack Obama in 2008 resulted in more than 1 million more votes for Obama over Hillary Clinton. And those 1 million votes made the difference. Winfrey's influence over the voters is considered to be so strong, that even some of the moderate Democrats at the New Republic wrote in 2011 that they were relieved she was retiring.
So could Oprah win? If we were talking about a statewide election, especially in Illinois, there would be no doubt she'd triumph. But a presidential run is a different animal. Winfrey is popular mostly among women, and you can't win the White House with only the women's vote. Just as importantly, her 30+ years of being treated like a god by her fans and a fawning media will work against her in the rough and tumble of a election filled with opposing candidates and opposition research. Winfrey is no wilting flower, and the struggles she overcame in her youth would serve her well on the campaign trail. But she's simply never had to face a more hostile media and political opponents before. That would likely make her angry, and there's a good chance the voters wouldn't like Oprah when she's angry.
1) Tom Hanks
Uncle Sam is taking a lot of heat from retailers.
With sales off to a rough start in the new fiscal year, chains from Wal-Mart to Foot Locker and Burlington to Best Buy are blaming a planned delay in tax refunds as one culprit.
The credits, which benefit low- to middle-income households with children, are being distributed later by the Internal Revenue Service this year to give the agency adequate time to validate claims.
Yet while traffic and sales trends are picking up as checks are delivered, their delay contributed to $57 billion less in refunds being doled out through most of February, according to Morgan Stanley.
They also contributed to muted expectations from several major retailers. Though not every company blamed late refunds for soft first-quarter trends, negative outlooks outnumbered the positive by nearly a 5-to-1 margin, according to Retail Metrics.
"We have seen, in our businesses and as reported by a third-party service, a substantial reduction in mall traffic in February," L Brands ' CFO Stuart Burgdoerfer told investors on the company's latest earnings call. "Is it tax refunds? Who knows what it is. But it was a substantial falloff."
Indeed, L Brands on Thursday reported a 13 percent decline in comparable sales for February, due in part to weak mall traffic and the discontinuation of Victoria's Secret swim line.
Analysts largely shook off the weak start to February, noting there were no major macroeconomic changes to indicate the drop-off would persist. Meanwhile, February is one of the lowest-volume months for retail sales, minimizing its impact on the quarter.
The Commerce Department will release February retail sales figures March 15.
It doesn't mean sales will come easy. With several major chains forecasting another quarter of revenue contraction, a record low number of Americans told the National Retail Federation that they'll spend their tax returns this year.
Instead, nearly half the survey's respondents who are expecting money back said they'll put it into savings. Roughly one-third said they'd use their refunds to pay down debt.
By comparison, just 20 percent will spend their money on everyday expenses, with less than 10 percent using it for major purchases. The NRF survey polled 7,609 Americans and had a margin of error of +/- 1.1 percentage points.
"Sure it hurts a little bit, but late tax refunds aren't the culprits for across the board misses," Stacey Widlitz, president of SW Retail Advisors, told CNBC. "Any new story that you're able to blame is great."
With the revelation that Attorney General Jeff Sessions had contact with Russian officials during the Trump campaignand even Republicans calling for an independent investigationwe are going to hear more comparisons between Donald Trump's Russian ties and the mother of all American political scandals:
Watergate.
If you weren't alive for Watergate and wonder how it compares to the early days of Trump's Russian scandal, here's what you need to know.
1. It will take a while to get to the truth.
On June 17, 1972, five men were arrested for breaking into the DNC headquarters, located in the Watergate hotel complex in Washington, D.C. On an intelligence-gathering mission during a presidential election, these burglars were essentially engaged in hacking when hacking meant prying open a locked filing cabinet with a crowbar.
More than two years later, on August 8, 1974, Richard Nixon became the first President to resign.
A two-year fall from a historic landslide reelection in 1972 to leaving public life in disgrace is a rapid descent. That said, if you believe the President engaged in a criminal conspiracy to win an election, two years can feel like a long time.
Americans in 2017and millennials in particularare not known for their patience.
However, investigating a potential constitutional crisis requires thoroughness and caution.
Sit back. This will take a while.
2. Trump will have good moments, even if the investigation heats up.
The seven months following the arrest of the Watergate burglars saw Richard Nixon at the pinnacle of his popularity and power.
He won reelection with 520 electoral votes and 60 percent of the popular vote. In fact, no candidate since Richard Nixon has won 60 percent of the popular vote. And in January of 1973, Nixon signed the Paris Peace Accords, ending the Vietnam War.
Clearly, Nixon had some good moments even as Watergate started to gain traction.
Trump will have some good moments, too. His address to Congress received positive reviews from Republicans and even some Democrats.
Trump's address was less an achievement and more reassurance that the President can at least appear restrained and cooperative. In the context of the early Trump administration, restraint and a nod to cooperation were welcome sights. There will be more welcome sights, and possibly some genuine achievements from the Trump administration.
But even as Watergate unfolded, some Nixon-friendly outlets used the President's good moments to argue the administration had moved beyond Watergate.
We know how that turned out.
3. Journalists will overreach, and the administration will try to use that overreach to discredit the entire story.
In their early reporting on Watergate, famed All the President's Men authors and Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein made a critical error. They incorrectly reported that a witness had given testimony to a grand jury about Nixon Chief of Staff H.R. Haldeman's involvement in the burglary.
Though they would become arguably the most famous reporters in American history, and their reporting would uncover the full scope of the scandal, Woodward and Bernstein's mistake nearly stopped their investigation in its tracks.
The Nixon administration used this error to try and discredit all the Post's Watergate coverage.
Journalism is far more competitive now than it was in 1973. That fierce competition will cause a reporter or outlet to try and scoop his or her competitors, and an inaccuracy or unverified piece of information will get published. The Trump administration will use the existence of that inaccuracy to try and discredit the entire Russian story.
Arguably, Buzzfeed's January publication of the infamous "dossier" fits this exact pattern.
4. In the end, the system will workbut there can be enormous collateral damage to the country.
During Watergate, there were rumors that no matter what happened, Nixon wouldn't leave office. His ego, his love of power, and even an infamous 1970 decision to dress White House Secret Service in uniforms resembling a royal guard were all cited as evidence Nixon would not step down, even if he were impeached.
Then, in August 1974, Republican Senators Hugh Scott and Barry Goldwater and Republican House Minority Leader John Jacob Rhodes met with Nixon and told him he faced sure impeachment in the House and conviction in the Senate.
The system worked.
Three days later Nixon resignedbut in a way Watergate never really ended.
According to the Pew Research Center, in October of 1972, 53 percent of Americans trusted their government all or most of the time.
In October of 2015, 19 percent of Americans trusted their government all or most of the time.
Ironically, one of the biggest legacies of America's distrust of its own government may be the election of Donald Trump, a candidate whose main argument for election was a lack of experience in the Washington, D.C.
Will Russia become Donald Trump's Watergate?
No one knowsyet.
But if you're a millennial, you should know that 2017 is starting to sound a lot like 1973.
Commentary by Dustin McKissen, the founder and CEO of McKissen + Company, a strategy, marketing, and public relations firm based in St. Charles, Missouri. He was named one of LinkedIn's "Top Voices" in 2015 and 2016, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Organizational and Industrial Psychology. Follow him on Twitter @DMcKissen.
For more insight from CNBC contributors, follow @CNBCOpinion on Twitter.
Atlantic Equities, a small London-based brokerage firm, downgraded Snap a day after the social-media company went public. Atlantic downgraded Snap to underweight from neutral on Friday, telling investor to avoid the stock as valuations following its initial public offering may be "unsustainable." "At current levels the stock is trading at a premium to Facebook after normalising for engagement levels. This seems unsustainable given Snap's unproven monetisation potential, structurally lower profitability and likely challenges in materially reaccelerating user growth," equity analyst James Cordwell wrote in a research note. The research firm made the unusual move of rating Snap before it went public. A few firms initiated coverage Thursday, but most will wait before putting out significant research on the new company. Many of the bigger banks, which were involved in the underwriting of Snap, are barred from putting out any research on the new stock for a period of time. Snap stock during its debut on Thursday Source: FactSet Instinet initiated coverage on Snap on Thursday with a reduce rating, saying future financial results will likely disappoint investors. The firm was the second on Wall Street to initiate Snap with a sell rating following Pivotal Research Group. Venture capitalist Gene Munster echoed that sentiment in a CNBC interview this week, telling investors the stock is likely to tread water in the months ahead. "This is an expensive stock, so I think it's going to be choppy for the next year," Munster said. Snap shares rallied 44 percent on Thursday, closing at $24.48 after the company priced its initial public offering at $17 a share. The hot startup is now valued at around $28 billion, about the size of CBS. "While valuation appears exceedingly stretched in our view, the risk to our downgrade is that in the near-term the stock will continue to trade on factors other than the fundamentals of the company," Atlantic's Cordwell said. In the next 12-months, Atlantic Equities predicts shares of Snap could trade at $14 per share, implying a loss of nearly 43 percent from where the stock closed on Thursday. CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this story. Disclosure: NBCUniversal is an investor in Snap.
A banner for Snap Inc. hangs on the facade of the the New York Stock Exchange on the eve of the company's IPO in New York. Brendan McDermid | Reuters
The city of Bethlehem is south of Jerusalem, in the West Bank. It is the biblical birthplace of Jesus and a major Christian pilgrimage destination.
Samer Khoury is not a diplomat, which makes his self-assigned mission of restoring the little town of Bethlehem that much harder. Despite incredible odds against violent protests in the wake of President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, this businessman has been able to attract the support from heavyweight patrons of all faiths, including Theodore McCarrick, the archbishop emeritus of Washington; Prince Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, a senior member of the royal family of Saudi Arabia; and, more controversially, Sheikh Muhammad A. Hussein, the grand mufti of Jerusalem, the Sunni Muslim in charge of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
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The task requires a tenacious spirit. On one hand, the unassuming Athens-based construction magnate, one of the family that owns the $5.3 billion Consolidated Contractors Co., is dealing with the Israeli occupational government, which has a say in much of what happens in Bethlehem. The Palestinian city lies just beyond the wall that separates Israel and the Palestinian territories, in between Jerusalem and the Jordan River. The long conflict and military occupation have exacted a heavy toll on Bethlehem, which could otherwise be one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. The GDP per capita in the West Bank and Gaza is $4,300. Bethlehem remains a poor city, where some families live in one-room homes and many young people lack jobs. Khoury's work and the life for the people of Bethlehem are harder now in the wake of the announcement in early December by Trump that the United States recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The announcement, which failed to mention east Jerusalem as the capital of an eventual Palestinian state a long-hoped-for outcome by moderates in the Arab world sparked violent protests across the Middle East. In Bethlehem, tourism has slowed to a trickle, and there have been some protests there, too. "What we sell is the Christian spirit and the message of hope and peace," Khoury said. He worries about what the next weeks and months will bring. "History has told us when something starts no one knows the end game in this part of the world," he said.
A political morass
Fractured politics mirror the fractured religions: The main attraction in Bethlehem is the Church of the Nativity, said to the be birthplace of Jesus. It has been governed for centuries by three denominations whose defense of their "zones" in the church is legendary and has sometimes come to blows: the Franciscan order of Roman Catholics, the Greek Orthodox Church and the Armenian Apostolic Church. "They are not businesspeople," said Khoury, sounding pained, recounting the difficulties of getting the lights strung to decorate the church at Christmas. But, moved by his family's Greek Orthodox and Palestinian roots, Khoury has a new vision for Bethlehem: Within 10 years, he wants to see 3 million tourists a year thronging the narrow streets. Three years in, he said, "We're 5 percent to 10 percent there."
Paying it forward
Khoury's late father, Said, founded the Bethlehem Development Foundation, a nonprofit that has so far spent about $40 million, with projects underway to further restore the church, build playgrounds for children and buy buses to ferry tourists to sites in and around the town. The foundation also incorporated a fundraising nonprofit in the United States and plans a Washington dinner in early February. It aims to raise and spend $60 million more by 2027. "It's a sad city when you enter," said Khoury. "This is the center of Christianity, important for 2 billion people. My father said: 'It is going to be a ghetto if nobody does anything.'"
A pilgrim lays her hand on the silver star in the Grotto under the Church of the Nativity, which according to tradition marks the spot Jesus was born. David Silverman | Getty Images
Khoury, who picked up the reins after his father died in 2014, wants to do everything from spur tourism with a new hotel and new agreements with Israeli bus companies, to helping develop jobs-training programs for students at a local university. The streets of Bethlehem are lined with tiny shops, many selling olive wood trinkets and beautifully carved nativity sets, but they are struggling. Bassem Giacaman, one of the shopkeepers, said before the second intifada, his shop had revenue of $400,000 a year, and employed 12. Now, it brings in about $100,000 a year, enough to employ three people and earn him a tiny profit, perhaps $10,000. In the two weeks since Trump's announcement, only three people have visited his shop, and he doesn't know how he will pay his workers, he said. Still, he said, he wants to keep his family's workshop alive because he loves the Church of the Nativity. In 1948, the Christian population of the Holy Land was 18 percent; it's now 2 percent, according to the Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation. Giacaman has tried to make his shop welcoming for everyone: It carries menorahs, Nativity sets, Arabic calligraphy and welcomes tourists who need to use the toilet. "We just try to open the door and keep things going," he said. Khoury said he was in part inspired to continue his father's work when he talked to people like Giacaman. The foundation, with the initial donation of $30 million from the Khourys in 2011, is helping the Palestinian government manage the much-lauded restoration of the church. It also has helped refurbish Manger Square, where tourist buses park, start a small museum and finance a strategic solid waste management plan for the area. Among its long-term plans: a small shopping center and car park, a solar power station that could power small factories, and a small hotel of about 100 rooms. More from Global Investing Hot Spots:
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Some of the projects may be funded via investments he said some projects could yield 10 percent annually and some via donations. Though between 1 million and 2 million people visit the church every year exact numbers are hard to come by few stay overnight and little economic benefit comes to the town of about 25,000 people.
A philanthropic cause
Khoury's late father was a Greek Orthodox Palestinian who immigrated to Lebanon, founded CCC, and then moved it to Greece. "He was a true believer," Samer Khoury said of his father. CCC, now run by his three sons, has about 100,000 employees worldwide and had revenue of $5.3 billion in 2016, Khoury said. It builds projects of enormous scale: CCC builds or is a partner on projects such as the giant 60-kilometer Riyadh Metro in Saudi Arabia, a giant expo center in Kazakhstan, and in the near future oil platforms off the East Africa, Khoury said. CCC is a part owner of the power plant in Gaza, the southern part of the Palestinian territory. In Bethlehem, the scale of projects is much smaller. Sometimes, in the complicated politics of the town, the goals can get tripped up by something as small as a string of lights. For instance, stringing lights on the Church of the Nativity opened a fraught negotiation between the three denominations. An extra light hanging on the wrong side of a wall might have been taken as a sign one of the denominations had ceded territory in the church to another. In the Church of the Nativity, the walls, the windows and even a crack in the floor are claimed by one of the three. "It is funny," said Khoury, without laughing even a little bit. "It is not practical." He is a little frustrated, but he is not giving up.
The Church of the Nativity is seen during its restoration in Bethlehem, West Bank on November 28, 2016. Issam Rimawi | Anadolu Agency | Getty Images
Though there are many nonprofits and aid agencies working in Bethlehem, Khoury's effort is different, observers said, because of its breadth, Khoury's business acumen, the money behind it and the expertise CCC is putting to the task. "What Samer Khoury has developed is an entire mechanism to restore and rebuild Bethlehem; a city whose international reputation precedes it but whose infrastructure, and most importantly, its people have been neglected for far too long. (He) is working to bring hope back to the city's inhabitants," said Sir Rateb Rabie, CEO of the Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation and a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre, named by the pope for services in the Holy Land. The Bethlehem Development Foundation has an engineer working in Bethlehem on restoration of the church, which started three years ago and will probably last three or four more years, Khoury says. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas first persuaded the three denominations to allow the restoration, but Khoury's foundation stepped in to manage payments for the highly specialized contractors doing the work, which has included replacing the 500-year-old wooden roof. Now, the restoration is moving on to restoring beautiful golden icons on the walls and an ancient mosaic under the floor that tourists tramp over on their way into the grotto said to mark the birthplace of Jesus. Among the discoveries during the restoration: a hole left from a stray bomb that fell during the 1967 War.
Against all odds
President Donald Trump lashed out at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on Friday, who has called for Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign over the uproar about his contacts with Russians.
Trump tweeted a photo of the Democratic senator from New York and Russian President Vladimir Putin laughing and holding Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Trump said "we should start an immediate investigation" into Schumer's ties with Russia, calling him a "total hypocrite." He did not accuse Schumer of any specific wrongdoing.
Trump tweet: We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite!
Schumer responded that he would "happily" talk about his contact with Putin. He said it took place in 2003 "in full view" of the press and the public. Schumer then asked if Trump and his team would talk openly about any contact with Russia.
Schumer tweet: And for the record, they were Krispy Kreme donuts.
The tweets come a day after Sessions said he would recuse himself from any investigations related to the Trump campaign. Lawmakers raised concerns that he misled senators in his January confirmation hearing about his contacts with the Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergey Kislyak, while he was a U.S. senator and advisor to the Trump campaign.
On Thursday, Schumer called for Sessions to resign, saying he had "weeks" to "correct the record" about his testimony and did not.
Later Friday, Trump slammed House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, who also called for Sessions to resign and accused him of perjury. The president said he demands a second investigation into the representative from California, linking to a Politico story that shows a photo appearing to contradict her Friday statement that she never met Kislyak.
Trump tweet: I hereby demand a second investigation, after Schumer, of Pelosi for her close ties to Russia, and lying about it.
Trump has called any developments about links between Russia and his campaign officials a "total witch hunt." He previously asked his first national security advisor, Michael Flynn, to resign after the former general misled top White House officials about his conversations with Kislyak.
Sessions oversees the Justice Department and FBI, which have led investigations into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election and any links between Russia and Trump associates. Sessions' recusal will put a deputy in charge of the investigations that relate to the Trump campaign, but it is not entirely clear how broad that recusal will be.
George Rose | Getty Images
President Trump's executive order on "merit-based immigration" could have an unexpected beneficiary: Canadian start-ups. Venture capitalists and angel investors in Canada said his executive order could cause highly educated immigrants an important talent pool for fast-growing technology companies who need engineers, developers and salespeople to seek work in hubs across the border, like Toronto and Vancouver, rather than in Silicon Valley. The executive order, which Trump signed in January, prevents Syrian refugees from entering the United States for an indefinite period, suspended all refugees' admissions for 120 days and prevented citizens of seven majority-Muslim countries from entering the United States for 90 days. On Wednesday, administration officials said Trump will drop Iraq from the list in a new immigration order he is expected to sign this month. The Pentagon and State Department had urged the administration to reconsider, because Iraq has played an essential role in fighting the Islamic State Group. Drawing on links with cities farther south like Seattle and San Francisco Vancouver, Canada's third-largest city, has pulled in thousands of skilled workers and entrepreneurs in recent years. Now U.S. tech companies are increasingly sending inquiries to Canadian economic development authorities to see how they can shift workers north of the border. Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson has been reported to say these requests have risen sharply. Many of the world's largest tech groups already operate in Vancouver. They include Amazon , which is looking to add to its staff of 700 in Vancouver. "There is a real shortage of talented people who can do the jobs that are needed," said Janet Bannister, a general partner in Toronto- and Montreal-based Real Ventures, which bills itself as Canada's largest and most active early-stage venture capital firm. "There are many very qualified, ambitious, hardworking people who will no longer be able to go to the U.S. Many of those people will come to Canada, as Canada embraces diversity. The Canadian business community will benefit as a result." Cost is also an important consideration. A skilled worker in British Columbia earns around $1,222 a week, compared to $3,400 in California, according to BC Stats, a government agency.
Protectionism unfurled
Trump is moving full speed ahead on his immigration policies, despite many protests against them. In his speech to Congress on Tuesday night, Trump said the country is taking "strong measures to protect our nation from radical Islamic terrorism." "According to data provided by the Department of Justice, the vast majority of individuals convicted for terrorism-related offenses since 9/11 came here from outside of our country," he said. "We have seen the attacks at home from Boston to San Bernardino to the Pentagon and, yes, even the World Trade Center." Trump also mentioned that his administration has been working on "improving vetting procedures." "[W]e will shortly be taking new steps to keep our nation safe and to keep out those who would do us harm," he said. More than 50 lawsuits have reportedly been filed against the order.
I believe the influx of talented immigrants to Canada will increase due to Trump's archaic policies. Sid Paquette managing director, OMERS Ventures
Many in Canada's tech community opposed the original executive order. In response to it, more than 150 entrepreneurs, investors and others signed an open letter embracing diversity in Betakit, a publication that covers Canadian start-up news and tech innovation. The technology community in Canada includes a large number of transplants from other countries. In Toronto, one important hub, 49 percent of the population is made up of immigrants, of whom 31 percent arrived between 2000 and 2011, according to the city of Toronto.
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The letter calls on the Canadian federal government to institute "an immediate and targeted visa providing those currently displaced by the U.S. executive order with temporary residency in Canada." "This visa would allow these residents to live and work in Canada with access to benefits until such time as they can complete the application process for permanent residency if they so choose," the letter says. "We encourage provincial and municipal governments across Canada to lend support as they can."
A call to action
Among the signers was Boris Wertz, founder and general partner at seed-stage investor Version One Ventures in Vancouver. "It's a message to our own country, as much as to the U.S., that we think diversity is a strength to the entrepreneurial ecosystem," says Wertz, who himself emigrated from Germany 15 years ago. As he and several other Canada-based investors pointed out, more than half of the billion-dollar companies in technology were created by immigrants. Research by the National Foundation for Immigration Policy, a nonpartisan think tank in Arlington, Virginia, found that immigrants started 44 of 87 U.S. start-up companies valued at $1 billion or more as of Jan. 1, 2016, with each company creating an average of 760 jobs. These 44 companies are valued at $168 billion, according to the study. Sid Paquette also signed the open letter. He is managing director at OMERS Ventures, the venture capital arm of OMERS, one of Canada's largest pension funds. "I believe the influx of talented immigrants to Canada will increase due to Trump's archaic policies," says Paquette. "We'll gladly keep our country open to everyone."
The talent chase
If the United States and Mexico were able to renegotiate a good trade deal, the beaten-down Mexican peso should really recover, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross told CNBC on Friday.
Ross, a billionaire who made his fortune investing in distressed assets, said the peso has fallen on worries about President Donald Trump's desire to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement. The Commerce secretary has been tasked by the president to find ways to level the playing field on international trade for American companies.
"I believe that if we and the Mexicans make a very sensible trade agreement the Mexican peso will recover quite a lot," Ross said on "Squawk Box."
Dollar/peso 2-day chart
Source: FactSet
The U.S. dollar fell sharply against the Mexican currency, dropping 0.74 percent to 19.84, after first spiking as Ross spoke.
The peso has fallen about 20 percent in value since June 2015. That's when Trump got into the presidential race with a fiery speech that was highly critical of Mexico.
Ross also said mechanisms need to be put in place to make the peso-dollar relationship more stable.
President Trump, in his address to Congress this week, honored Carryn Owens, the widow of William "Ryan" Owens. Chief Owens is the highly-decorated Navy Seal who was killed in a raid in Yemen on January 29th. Carryn received a heartfelt two-minute standing ovation from the crowd. Many hearts in the room and across the nation surely went out to her.
Not all hearts were so kind, though. Take Dan Grillo, a principal in the Chicago-area Liberty Advisor Group and a former Clinton and Obama volunteer. After the Congressional address, Grillo tweeted the following heartless and insensitive message: "Sorry, Owens' wife, you're not helping yourself or your husband's memory by standing there and clapping like an idiot. Trump just used you."
Grillo was fired the day after this ill-considered tweet, and that firing seems warranted for reasons the company gave in a statement.
The company described Grillo's tweet as "offensive and inappropriate," and said it was "inconsistent with the company's values." The company's statement went on to say, "Regardless of whether the comments in the tweet were intended to cause the hurt and anger that they ultimately generated, they were unacceptable to us, and the individual who issued the tweet is no longer affiliated with Liberty."
The company's decision was only strengthened by the fact that Grillo had named the company in his Twitter profile. So the company was at considerable risk for being associated with the tweet.
Grillo's firing, in my opinion, is a clear case of when an ill-advised tweet should lead to a dismissal. But under what less-clear circumstances should such a tweet or post result in a firing?
Should the only criterion be that a tweet or post that is offensive, inappropriate and inconsistent with the values of the company will lead to a firing? Should it matter that a post, like Grillo's, elicits widespread and uniformly negative attention?
It stands to reason that a company would give more weight to a tweet that is offensive, against the values of the company, and widely distributed. But what about when an employee makes a racist or sexist comment while having drinks with colleagues after work? If senior management later hears of the comment should they fire the employee even if they are confident that no one outside of that group of employees heard it?
That would depend chiefly on what matters most to the company. If the company is mostly concerned with its public image and risk management then they might reprimand but not fire the employee who makes the inappropriate comment over drinks. Less exposure means less risk of negative publicity.
But if the company is chiefly concerned with having a values-based culture, and sees its positive public image as a reflection of that culture, then they would have solid grounds for firing the employee even if the offensive comment is not heard outside of the company. A company cannot say that certain values matter if there are no consequences for action against those values. And a company surely cannot say that character and values matter if they not only employ but promote jerks and give them greater rewards, responsibilities, and ability to affect others.
Should it matter how sympathetic or not the target of the inappropriate comment is? Carryn Owens was as sympathetic as a person could be. But what if the target of the tweet was as unsympathetic as could be? What if, for example, the tweet mocked Martin Shkreli, the former CEO of Retrophin, who was described as "the most hated man in America" when, in 2015, he notoriously defended raising the price of Daraprim from $13.50 to $750 a pill?
A tweet targeting a sympathetic figure is surely more upsetting than a tweet targeting a jerk. But if the tone and content of the message is cruel, unkind or otherwise not the kind of thing that someone who gets the company's values would say, then it would seem that even an offensive tweet targeting an unsympathetic person should result in a firing.
Finally, how much weight should be given to the employee's condition or state of mind at the time of the offensive tweet? What if an employee is in an unusually bad way at the time of the offensive tweet?
Returning to our barroom hypothetical, if the bad condition is a result of imbibing, then little to no weight should be given to it. One should not be excused from an offense based on a condition that one has brought about him- or herself.
But what if the employee at the time of the tweet had just received news of a devastating loss or had just started taking a new medication that unexpectedly interferes with his or her judgment?
That should count more than being drunk or high, but if the tweet were sufficiently offensive and contrary to the company's values, the question could be raised whether an employee in any condition would be having such thoughts, let alone tweeting them out. And if character is what truly matters in a company then due weight should be given to the fact that character is sometimes most clearly revealed in difficult or challenging situations.
This is a suggestive list of factors to consider when deciding whether to fire an employee for an offensive tweet. Grillo's firing was a sad but easy case. Other cases might be less clear and more difficult, so each company more and more has to decide what criteria it will use in deciding whether to say, "You're fired."
Commentary by Joseph Holt, an associate teaching professor at the University of Notre Dame's Mendoza College of Business who specializes in business ethics and leadership. Follow him on Twitter @busethicsdude.
For more insight from CNBC contributors, follow @CNBCopinion on Twitter.
Chief Engraver of the United States Mint Frank Gasparro works on his 1977 Flowing Hair Liberty dollar designs in this contemporaneous scene.
Gasparros Flowing Hair Liberty dollar design of 1977 inspired Grove Minting Co. to issue commemorative medals marking the 40th anniversary of Gasparros designs.
United States Mint Chief Engraver Frank Gasparro created a Flowing Hair Liberty dollar design in 1977, but it lost out to the Anthony dollar. Grove Minting Co. has issued commemorative medals marking the designs 40th anniversary.
When United States Mint Chief Engraver Frank Gasparro created a design for a dollar coin in the late 1970s, his sculpture eventually lost out to the underwhelming, critically assailed image of Susan B. Anthony.
But a modern minter is breathing new life into the classic pattern, offering a limited number of commemoratives marking the 40th anniversary of the 1977 Flowing Hair Liberty dollar trial strikes.
Jared Grove, of Grove Minting Company, announced the piece in mid-February. The Grove commemorative piece is based upon Gasparros original 1977 Liberty Dollar design, sticking closely in detail to the proposed obverse, including its 11-sided rim perimeter.
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The reverse of the Grove piece features the Eagle in Flight reverse by Gasparro, a flying eagle with outstretched wings, looking skyward, with 13 stars and 10 rays, with the addition of the Grove Minting coat of arms.
The 2017 medal was conceptualized from imagery now held at the Smithsonians National Museum of American History, donated by Gasparros daughter in 2009, according to Grove.
Within that collection appears a newspaper clipping of a fashion model wearing an Albert Nipon designer suit. With the quick stroke of a pen, Gasparro turned the models profile into the portrait of a Flowing Hair Liberty, which progressed into a final sketch for the coins obverse.
His reverse design sketches iterate several variations of an eagle in flight, bursting through the rays of the sun in the background, complete with 13 stars symbolizing the original colonies. The design is titled The Coming of a New Dawn, according to Coin World's Comprehensive Catalog & Encyclopedia of United States Coins.
The soaring eagle is vaguely remniscent of the one on the Saint-Gaudens double eagle type, although flying over a mountain sunrise, according to the Catalog.
The Nipon brand was launched in 1972, but Gasparro had the idea for a modern Flowing Hair dollar at least a few years earlier he designed the medal for the American Numismatic Associations 1969 convention, which utilizes a Flowing Hair design. According to Jared Grove, The newspaper sketch could have rekindled thoughts in persisting his envisioned design forward to 1977.
Galvanos were prepared for an 11-sided, 26.5 millimeter diameter Flowing Hair dollar. Gasparro told Coin World's Paul Gilkes that trial strikings of his design were made at the Philadelphia Mint, but all were destroyed soon after.
A photograph of a presumed trial strike indicates a round planchet with plain edge, although at the time Mint officials were still seriously considering the 11-sided planchet, according to the Coin World book.
Gasaparros superior design was no match for suffragist Anthony, whose taciturn visage would enter circulation in 1979, to much ballyhoo.
The Grove firms Proof 2017 medal is struck in nickel, measures 25 millimeters in diameter and weighs 8.6 grams with a plain edge.
The medal has a mintage limit of 750 pieces that retail for $15 each, plus shipping.
This is the seventh exclusive commemorative design issued by the Grove Minting Co.
For more details or to order the medal, visit the firms website.
The coins involvement in the anniversary celebration is recognized with a raised edge inscription that reads ? 225th ANNIVERSARY ? three times, imparted once from each section of a three-part collar.
The coins obverse design is a modern rendition of Liberty as an African-American woman wearing a crown of five-pointed stars. The reverse design depicts an American eagle in flight, its wings in a downward thrust.
The 17922017-W American Liberty gold $100 coin will be limited to a maximum release of 100,000 coins when it goes on sale April 6.
UPDATE: The U.S. Mint updated its website at 3 p.m. ET April 5 by posting the initial price for the Proof 1792-2017-W American Liberty $100 gold coin at $1,640.
Sales will open at noon ET April 6 by the U.S. Mint for the 17922017-W American Liberty gold $100 coin.
Restricted to a maximum release of 100,000 coins, the high relief 1-ounce .9999 fine gold coin is being issued as part of the Mints year-long celebration of its 225th anniversary April 2.
Pricing for the coin will be specified closer to the release date, based on a pricing grid posted March 3 online at the Federal Register.
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If the spot price of gold remains between the weekly average gold price of $1,250 and $1,299 per troy ounce, the American Liberty gold coin would be initially priced at $1,690, but subject to change weekly.
The coins involvement in the anniversary celebration is recognized with a raised edge inscription that reads ? 225th ANNIVERSARY ? three times, imparted once from each section of a three-part collar.
U.S. Mint officials report the coins are struck at the West Point Mint, with what they refer to as a business-strike finish.
The coins obverse design is a modern rendition of Liberty as an African-American woman wearing a crown of five-pointed stars. The obverse was designed by U.S. Mint Artistic Infusion Program artist Justin Kunz and sculptured by U.S. Mint Medallic Artist Phebe Hemphill.
The reverse design depicts an American eagle in flight, its wings in a downward thrust. The reverse was designed by AIP artist Chris T. Costello and sculptured by U.S. Mint Medallic Sculptor Michael Gaudioso.
Medallic issues
The same designs that appear on the 2017-W American Liberty gold coin are to be issued later in 2017 on Proof American Liberty 1-ounce .999 fine silver medals, which are to be struck with four different finishes, one finish each at the Philadelphia, Denver, West Point and San Francisco Mints.
EquipmentShare officially celebrates expansion
EquipmentShare will expand its corporate office footprint in Columbia following the success of its application for a 10-year property tax abatement.
SB 97, Public Financing of Campaign Fixes, sponsored by Sen. Peter Wirth, passed the House Local Government, Elections, Land Grant & Cultural Affairs Committee unanimously today!
Our huge thanks to Rep. Daymon Ely for presenting the bill on Senator Wirths behalf and the support from NMs Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Olive and the League of Women Voters of NM today in committee. And thanks to the committee for a great conversation. Now we are off to the House Judiciary Committee!
SB 393, Lobbyist Reporting Requirements, sponsored by Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto and Rep. James Smith, passed by the Senate Rules Committee on Wednesday. This bill amends the Lobbyist Regulation Act changing the reporting threshold to require cumulative reporting of expenses incurred under $100, in addition to the existing requirement for reporting single transactions over $100.
Lobby Reform bills scheduled for Friday, March 3 in Senate Rules Committee
SB 225, Estimated Lobbyist Expense Report Filing, sponsored by Sen. Jeff Steinborn this bill adds a requirement for lobbyists employers to make an estimated lobbying expense report with the Secretary of State (SOS) no later than January 15th and May 1st of each year and outlines the contents of the required reports. The reports are required to also contain the actual expenses incurred by lobbyists employers for the previous reporting period.
SB 228, Post- Session Lobbyist Reports, sponsored by Sen. Jeff Steinborn this bill would require each lobbyist or lobbyist employer who is required to file an expenditure report, to file a report with the Secretary of State (SOS) within one week following a legislative session. Each lobbyist or lobbyist employer would be required to disclose which legislation was advocated for or against by the lobbyist and their employer, and whether the lobbyist or lobbyist employer supported or opposed that piece of legislation.
Also, one bill we oppose
SJR 12, Fair Election Constitutional Convention, sponsored by Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino, would call a Constitutional Convention to address Money in Politics. While CCNM obviously supports fighting big money in politics, we steadfastly oppose a Constitutional Convention. You can read our report, The Dangerous Path: Big Moneys Plan to Shred the Constitution and also review our fact sheet on the Con Con.
We have been told that there will be House and Senate committees meeting over the weekend and hopefully more of our priority bills scheduled for those agendas!
Please check in for an update from the Common Cause New Mexico team tomorrow so see what other bills may be added to committee calendars on the Democracy Wire page of our website!
Follow us on Twitter @commoncausenm & like us on Facebook for mid-day updates and remember to CALL YOUR LEGISLATORS!
Apple's Safari browser, like rival Internet Explorer (IE), has lost a significant number of users in the last two years, data published Wednesday showed.
The most likely destination of Safari defectors: Google's Chrome.
According to California-based analytics vendor Net Applications, in March 2015, an estimated 69% of all Mac owners used Safari to go online. But by last month, that number had dropped to 56%, a drop of 13 percentage points -- representing a decline of nearly a fifth of the share of two years prior.
It was possible to peg the percentage of Mac users who ran Safari only because that browser works solely on macOS, the Apple operating system formerly labeled OS X. The same single-OS characteristic of IE and Edge has made it possible in the past to determine the percentage of Windows users who run those browsers.
[ Further reading: Microsoft continues to bleed browser share at record rates ]
Net Applications measures user share by sniffing the browser user agent string of visitors to its customers' websites, then tallying the various browsers and OSes.
Safari's share erosion was much less than that suffered by Microsoft's browsers, particularly IE, during the same period. From March 2015 to February 2017, the use of Microsoft's IE and Edge on Windows personal computers plummeted. Two years ago, the browsers were run by 62% of Windows PC owners; last month, the figure had fallen by more than half, to just 27%.
Simultaneous with the decline of IE has been the rise of Chrome. The user share of Google's browser -- its share of all browsers on all operating systems -- more than doubled in the last two years, jumping from 25% in March 2015 to 59.5% last month. Along the way, Chrome supplanted IE to become the world's most-used browser.
It's impossible to be certain, but Chrome was probably the beneficiary from Safari's user share decline as well. In the last 24 months, Mozilla's Firefox -- the other major browser alternative to Chrome for macOS users -- has barely budged, losing just two-tenths of a percentage point in user share.
The downturn of both IE and Safari expose the fragility of what was once thought to be their biggest advantage: That they were bundled with their respective operating systems. Because they came with the operating system -- Windows in IE's case, OS X and now macOS in Safari's -- their position was believed unassailable; users, it was thought, would largely use what they were given, rather than seek out alternatives.
Microsoft became the agent of IE's destruction when the company unexpectedly called for the retirement of most versions of the browser, and told customers they must upgrade to IE11. Faced with that, many instead simply deserted to Chrome.
Apple did not make that same mistake, so reasons for Safari's decline are muddier. One possibility: Those who used both Windows and OS X/macOS -- perhaps one at work, the other at home -- may have shifted to the common denominator of Chrome for the convenience of bookmark and password synchronization. Under that theory, a small increase of Chrome on OS X/macOS was simply a side effect of the much larger rise of Chrome on Windows.
In November, President Donald Trump said on his first day in office he would order an investigation of H-1B abuses.
That never happened, though critics held their tongues. After all, Trump had repeatedly campaigned for H-1B reforms, even inviting laid-off Disney IT workers to speak at his campaign rallies. Even so, patience is ending.
[ Discuss this story. Join our H-1B/Outsourcing group on Facebook. ]
Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill), a long-time critic of the H-1B visa program and co-sponsor of a reform bill with Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), accused Trump today of failing "to put American workers first by cracking down on H-1B visa abuse.
"I am disappointed that you have broken your campaign promise to take action on the first day of your Administration to reform foreign guest worker visas - especially the H-1B visa - to put American workers first," Durbin wrote in a letter to Trump sent Friday.
The White House did not respond to a request for comment. Durbin's letter could be dismissed by some as a partisan attack by a Democrat, but he is not alone. The IEEE-USA has also warned that Trump is in danger of "letting down American workers."
A key issue is the upcoming April 1 H-1B visa lottery. Trump has voiced support for a merit-based distribution system. As it stands now, however, the H-1B visas for the 2018 fiscal year will be distributed by lottery, no different than any other year. As a result, the IEEE-USA has warned that unless Trump moves to change the lottery, thousands of visas will go to offshore outsourcing firms.
IT workers have long complained about training H-1B-holding replacements, and Trump has spoken of the problem.
"Companies are importing low-wage workers on H-1B visas to take jobs from young college-trained Americans," Trump said at a campaign rally last fall for Millennial-age voters in Ohio.
It's not clear how much authority Trump even has to change the lottery. There are three competing views.
The IEEE-USA believes Trump needed to make a regulation to change the annual H-1B distribution. But Trump needed to do so this week to meet a 30-day notice requirement. But an official from the American Immigration Lawyers Association believes the only way Trump can change the lottery is with legislation, which means he has to wait for Congress to act. A third view is that Trump can change the lottery right up to April 1 with an executive order.
The Trump administration has given no indication of what it will do about this year's visa lottery.
"The American people deserve an explanation for your decision not to pursue H-1B reforms on your first day in office," wrote Durbin.
"If you do not take action in the next few weeks, outsourcers will secure the right to import tens of thousands of low-wage foreign guest workers to replace American workers," wrote Durbin. "This is in addition to hundreds of thousands of H-1B workers who are already employed by outsourcing companies in the United States."
Read more articles by Chris Meehan.
Chris is a Denver-based freelance writer , editor and communications specialist. He covers sustainability, social issues and other topics.
Cllr Nick Paget-Brown is the Leader of Kensington and Chelsea Council.
In the last few years, some 850 British residents are thought to have gone out to Syria and Iraq to join ISIS and other jihadist organisations. Many of those were young people, and several were from Kensington and Chelsea.
Of that 850, we know that about 75 have so far been convicted by the authorities and about 70 are believed to have been killed. Although it remains to be verified, one of those killed is probably Khadiza Sultana, one of the three Bethnal Green teenagers who went to Syria she was 17 years old.
And of course for years now we have seen young British people getting involved in terror plots, domestic and foreign.
There is nothing new, sadly, about people from ordinary backgrounds and loving homes committing to belief systems that espouse hatred and sanctify violence. In fact, people have been prey to sudden-onset fanaticism at many different times and in many different cultures.
Sophisticated, ruthless people understand this; through experiment, trial and error, they have refined their techniques for recruiting the vulnerable. Some of the material these people produce and make available through social media can be frighteningly compelling and have clearly been effective in the West.
This is the perplexing some might say terrifying context in which the Governments Prevent strategy has been operating. Prevent is designed to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. It tries to counter terrorist ideology and challenge those who promote it. Crucially, it supports individuals who are vulnerable against becoming radicalised.
But if you think Prevent is only about Islamic extremism you are wrong. There is, for example, a growing problem with the far right, though that liberally applied term doesnt quite capture the problem. In parts of the UK, extreme ethno-nationalism such as that espoused by Thomas Mair, the murderer of Jo Cox MP is now said to be generating more Prevent referrals than Islamism.
Unfortunately Prevent itself has in recent months been under attack. Now it is understandable that members of some of the families and communities from which referrals to Prevent are made are going to be concerned. But those who know and understand the programme recognise that far from being an intrusive instrument of State control, Prevent is actually just another way in which teachers, youth workers, social workers, doctors and other professionals seek to safeguard the vulnerable from harm.
The harm in question is particularly pernicious and needs a suitably sensitive, sophisticated and joined-up response and by orchestrating the efforts of families, communities and a wide range of professionals that is what Prevent seeks to provide. And of the referrals they receive, only about ten per cent are referred on to Channel whose job it is to provide direct support to vulnerable people at risk. Thats right, the great majority of Prevent referrals are actually rejected, though in many cases they are vulnerable in some other way and are referred elsewhere for help. And heres the thing: there isnt even anything compulsory about Channel. Its ministrations are entirely voluntary; not exactly the KGB is it?
And who makes referrals to Prevent in the first place? They come from those very same liberal professions and also from desperate families, and worried neighbours and friends.
Predictably, none of this has stopped advocacy and human rights groups from attacking Prevent with the claim that it views Muslims through a lens of security or that it is a broad brush policy being applied to the entire Islamic community.
Just as predictably, these groups have found a chorus of support amongst student unions, a certain kind of academic, sections of the press, and politicians who prefer to turn away from uncomfortable realities.
I hope the wider public will treat these attacks as they deserve to be treated. In particular, I hope that worried families will not be swayed. My view is this: if you discover your son or daughter has been up all night watching internet material about Anders Breivik, or beheading videos on their mobile phone, if his or her behaviour has changed markedly, if he or she seems to have adopted a new world view that is angry and binary, if you are terrified your child might commit crimes against their fellow citizens, end up in prison or dead like poor Khadiza Sultana, then you should talk to those professionals whom in other contexts you trust implicitly, your head teacher say, your social worker if you have one, or your local childrens services department.
You could even talk to Prevent directly. Far from being a sinister arm of the state, it is simply an alliance of our some of best and finest doing all they can to safeguard our vulnerable people from extremist predators.
Iain Dale is Presenter of LBC Drive, Managing Director of Biteback Publishing, a columnist and broadcaster and a former Conservative Parliamentary candidate.
On Wednesday evening, I chaired a session at the Jewish Book Festival at Kings Place, which is also home to the Guardian. The guest was Malcolm Rifkind who was there to talk about his memoir, Power and Pragmatism, which I published last summer.
I was delighted that the event was moved to the big theatre because 250 people had bought tickets. They were a really engaged audience, and asked really good questions. I think they were surprised at how funny Malcolm was. To me, he is one of the great political speakers of our times, yet hes never really got the credit he deserves for his ability to make brilliant speeches with no notes, on whatever subject hes speaking on.
I remember watching him make a speech in the Commons when he was Transport Secretary on some very technical aspect of policy, which most ministers would have read out word for word. Not once did he look down at his notes, and he proceeded to make the house laugh which isnt easy when youre talking about ports privatisation or some such policy.
Over the past fortnight or so, I have done something that I should have done years ago, and switched my energy provider. I switched to a new entrant to the market called Octopus Energy. It predicts that I will save more than 850 over a year.
Part me thinks, well, Ill believe that when I see it, but I am very impressed with them so far. I tweeted that I had switched, and within an hour both the Chief Executive and their main Twitter feed had replied, and said that they hoped I would be pleased with their service. Youd never get that from Npower or EDF, would you?
So it seems its now impossible for Theresa May to trigger Article 50 at the European Summit next week, given that the Lords has passed an amendment which will now ping back to the Commons.
So mid-March is now the most likely date for Article 50 to be triggered. Its immaterial now whether the Lords should have done this- they have, so we need to see what happens next. Assuming that the Commons pongs the amendment back, you have to assume that the Lords will back down.
In the unlikely event that they dont, and the ping-pong continues, I suppose its possible that the end of March deadline could be missed. This seemed to be recognised in Mays remarks at PMQs this week, when she said she plans to trigger Article 50 by the end of March, and also used the phrase It is my intention to
Thats a bit different to saying I will. Nuance maybe but possibly significant too. I keep being told that the March 31 deadline was chosen because, were Article 50 to be moved after that, the Lisbon Treaty says the only way we would then be allowed to leave is if 14 members of the Council of Ministers vote to allow us to.
I have yet been unable to discover whether this is an urban myth or not. Those that claim that it would happen have so far been able to give me any proof. Can anyone here do any better? And if this all goes terribly wrong and we end up in a 1910-type situation, would Theresa May then be forced to create a hundred or so new peers? Lord Dale of Ashdon in the county of Essex has a nice ring to it, doesnt it?!? Ha ha.
The speech that Donald Trump gave to Congress this week is the one tht he should have given at his inauguration. There were lots of things in it that I disagreed with, but it was almost statesmanlike in its delivery. Perhaps he should use autocue a little more often.
One thing though. He promised to create an Office to Support the Victims of Crime by Immigrants. At least thats what I thought he said. And indeed he did. The proof is here. Jawdropping.
Ive got a new book project on the go. Jacqui Smith and I are going to co-edit a two-volume set of books marking the hundredth anniversary of the first woman to be elected to the Commons.
Since then, 456 women have been elected. In the present day Commons there are 455 male MPs, which just goes to show how the chamber is still very male-dominated. The first volume will contain biographies of the 168 women elected between 1918 and 1996. The second one will contain profiles of the 288 female MPs elected since 1997.
Its a massive project, and we are now contacting potential authors for the various biographical profiles. These will also be women, too. The books have a very Ronseal title The Honourable Ladies.
A few months after he became Prime Minister, Gordon Brown pondered an early general election. This was briefed about by members of his inner political circle who were keen on the idea, and wanted to create a sense of momentum by getting the idea reported. Their efforts were a triumph in one sense at least. Browns musings became public. They werent denied, and thus gathered pace. That sense of momentum grew. It began to look unstoppable. And by the time it was stopped, the damage had been done. The man who had been marketed in his first months in office as not flash, just Gordon looked more like what his dithering had shown him up as: what Alex Salmond called the big fearty from Fife.
This tale from the past takes us to the present and to Salmonds successor, Nicola Sturgeon. This is because, in feeding speculation about a second referendum on Scottish independence, she is behaving eerily like Brown himself. The polls are not as benign for her now than they were for the former Prime Minister in the summer of 2007. They show no shift towards support for independence. Perhaps Sturgeon sniffs a change in the wind that others are missing. Maybe she is bowing to internal party pressure. But it looks more as though she cannot help but pursue the cause that has let her prosper regardless of where public opinion in Scotland may be.
Earlier this week, she took to the Times to claim that she has a cast-iron mandate for a second independence referendum and that the prime ministers sheer intransigence will be to blame if she does. In Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, Angus Robertson suggested that May opposes letting powers on farming and fisheries go to Holyrood rather than Westminster when they are returned from Brussels. This was clearly intended, like so much that the SNP does, to ramp up a sense of grievance. Perhaps Sturgeons calculation is less to hold that referendum than to gain more powers by using the threat of one to scare the Prime Minister into conceding them.
But either way, she is encouraging speculation about one to grow. May is clearly concerned: the Cabinet held a long discussion about how to deal with Sturgeons manoeuverings last week. Ben Gummer, profiled by Andrew Gimson on this site earlier this week, has charge, at the Cabinet Office, of co-ordinating the Governments response. But, to date, the Prime Minister is not for budging. En route to the Conservative conference in Scotland this weekend, she has accused the SNP of having tunnel vision about independence, and lambasted it for its failure to deliver better public services for Scotlands voters, particularly schools.
It may be said that Sturgeon isnt like Brown at all that he backed off, and she will not. Perhaps this is right. Maybe she has already made up her mind. But what is happening looks more consistent with events creating their own momentum. In todays Daily Telegraph, Ruth Davidson says that if that second independence referendum is held I would be confident of victoryI think the arguments are weaker and I think the people of Scotland are just as switched on as they were three years ago so I think theres every chance that we would win by a wider margin. Most of this sites readers though not all, as we have seen will hope shes right. Or else hope that a poll wont take place at all.
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During President Donald Trump's speech to the Congress last Tuesday, February 28, he has already backed the use of tax credits in purchasing health insurances. This is also the first time that he has affirmed his support to replace Obamacare.
However, despite bring united to oppose former Democratic President Barack Obama's signature 2010 healthcare law, the Republicans who control the White House and the Congress failed to arrive on concrete details on how to replace Obamacare.
Reuters quotes, "We should help Americans purchase their own coverage, through the use of tax credits and expanded Health Savings Accounts," President Donald Trump explained during his speech. "But it must be the plan they want, not the plan forced on them by our government, " the president further added.
However, Democrats are still opposed to the changes that will be implemented with the Obamacare as it will affect millions of US citizens that were initially uninsured people.
Yet, a drafted Republican replacement for Obamacare already is already available and includes an age-based monthly tax credit that Americans who do not get health insurance from their work, could use to buy health coverage and can be used even as they transfer from one job to another. Some Republicans, however, showed resistance to this plan, but health insurers who have already met with President Donald Trump prior to the Congress meeting already implied the importance of tax credits to keep people in the market.
President Donald Trump also expressed an intention to repeal and replace Obamacare. "I am also calling on this Congress to repeal and replace Obamacare, with reforms that expand choice, increase access, lower costs, and at the same time, provide better healthcare," Trump said as quoted by The Guardian. He also further discusses that it should not be a mandate for American citizens to purchase a government-approved health insurance unless they want too.
The Obamacare, which President Donald Trump wants to remove, provided insurance to more than 20 million Americans via subsidized individual insurance plans that expand the public insurance program Medicaid. This program also creates consumer protections that dictate which benefits must be available in each of the health plans.
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Dogs might be given the title of man's best friend but recent studies are looking at dogs to solve the puzzle about human evolution. In fact, a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Arizona found that human toddlers are more similar to dogs than chimpanzees when it comes to social intelligence.
According to the study, 2-year-old toddlers and dogs are more similar when it comes to social intelligence compared to 2-year-old toddlers and chimpanzees. This finding from the study could help researchers how social skills of human beings evolved.
The study, published in the current issue of the journal Animal Behavior, investigated whether distinct social skills shared by toddlers and dogs are merely superficial or unique to both species. Moreover, the study bases its hypothesis on previous studies which found that human beings develop basic social communication as early as 9-months-old and these social skills cannot be found in the human's closest living relatives which are the chimpanzees but found on dogs. In addition, these social skills are said to be what sets apart human beings from other species.
Based on the data collected and analyzed by tests performed by toddlers, dogs, and chimpanzees. The researchers collaborated with 552 dogs of various breeds, 105 2-year-olds who took a similar kind of game-based tests, and 106 chimpanzees at the wildlife sanctuary in Africa. The battery of tests involved the assessment of the physical environment, spatial reasoning, cooperative communication skills, and cognition.
The findings of the study found the both toddlers and dogs fared better compared to the chimpanzees. However, the chimpanzees did perform better when it came to tests involving spatial reasoning and physical environment, they failed on cooperative communicative skills.
Moreover, the researchers found that when a dog exhibits good performance on one social skill, it tends to reflect good performance on other social related things. These characteristics that are found in dogs are also found in toddles but surprisingly not in exhibited by the chimpanzees.
The researchers explain that the similarities between dogs and humans when it comes to social intelligence can be attributed to how both species experienced the same pressures that influenced the evolution of the respective species. Specifically, the researchers hypothesized that through the evolutionary processes, humans developed social skills similar to dogs when the species underwent domestication.
The researchers do emphasize that it is only through social intelligence that human beings and dogs are similar and not the rest of human cognition.
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Child marriage in Bangladesh has now been legalized which are worrying human rights watchers around the world. In New York City, authorities are also taking action to end marriage for children as young as 14 years old.
Child Marriage In Bangladesh
On Feb. 27, the Bangladesh Parliament approved a law that allows girls under 18 years old to enter into marriage under "special circumstance." There is no minimum age for the child marriage to take effect as long as there is permission from the parents and the court.
Bangladesh has the highest rate of child marriage in Asia and in the world. Around 52 percent of the girls marry before their 18the birthday, while 18 percent marry before age 15.
Before the approval of the new law on child marriage, Bangladesh's legal age of marriage was 18 years old for women and 21 years old for men. Human rights advocates are now looking at the damage brought by the new law.
"Nothing can change the fact that this is a destructive law. But carefully drafted regulations can mitigate some of the harm to girls," Heather Barr, senior researcher on women's rights at Human Rights Watch, said. Child marriage in Bangladesh can harm girls with complications from adolescent pregnancy and abortion.
Child Marriage In New York
New York governor Andrew Cuomo is taking action to put an end to child marriage. Many are surprised that there is such a practice in the United States.
Indeed, child marriage is legal in the city of New York. There is a law that allows children as young as 14 years old to enter into marriage. There is a pending legislation to reform the law and ban marriages before the age of 17.
Countries in the world have committed to end child marriage by 2030. Nepal, Netherlands, Malawi, Spain and Sweden have already changed their laws to reduce child marriage.
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While the UK had a decrease in cosmetic surgical procedures, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) had released on Wednesday the top cosmetic surgery in the United States. They have revealed that lip reduction procedures have increased dramatically last year. There were 3,547 lip reduction surgeries, representing a 283 percent increase from 2015.
Debra Johnson, plastic surgeon and president of ASPS said the procedure has been popular among Hispanic and African American women. The procedure can be carried out for less than $1,000.
There is no objective definition for normal lip size, but some people who have overly endowed lips get lip reduction for it to look a little bit like the normal range. Dr. Germaine Awad professor of educational psychology at the University of Technology wrote about how female African American college students define beauty.
Awad said one possible reason for lip reduction is the notion of striving toward a white European beauty ideal, which she said is also ironic. There are also a lot of other women who are increasing the size of their lips. There were 28,430 lip augmentation procedures last year based on ASPS numbers.
Another popular cosmetic procedure was labiaplasty, which reduces the inner lips of the vulva. A total of 12,666 labiaplasty procedures were carried out in 2016 which shows a 39% increase from 2015.
According to The Guardian, the top 10 cosmetic surgical procedures for 2016 were breast augmentaion (290,467), liposuction (235,237), nose reshaping (223,018), eyelid surgery (209,020), facelift (131,106), tummy tuck (127,633), breast lift (101,264), dermabrasion (88,182), neck lift (55,227) and forehead lift (43,038).
There were also 82 breast augmentation surgeries, 235,237 liposuction procedures and 223,018 nose reshaping surgeries in 2016. There were also non-surgical procedures which have increased, such as over 7 million Botulinum Toxin procedures or Botox, an increase from 786,911 in 2000.
Nigeria Today reported the top five non-surgical cosmetic procedures were Botox (7 million procedures), soft-tissue fillers (2.6 million), chemical peels (1.36 million), laser hair removal (1.1 million) and microdermabrasions (775,000).
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Parents from Ohio were arrested on child endangerment charges on Tuesday. Husband and wife were discovered overdosed by the police in separate locations with their children.
Nathan Carroll, 29, was found by the police with an infant in the backseat after his car stirred off the road. Samantha Schigel, 24, was found in their home, overdosed and in the presence of their other children.
Lorain police officials went to the couple's home to inform Schigel that they found Carroll overdosed. A child answered the door and said that her mom was sleeping and could not be woken up. Not all the children in the home had the same parents according to WCVB.
That was when the police determine that Schigel also had an overdose. Both parents were given naloxone, a heroin overdose antidote that reverses the effect of the drug. They were then taken to Mercy Hospital in Lorain.
Schigel told the police they had snorted a powder they believed to be heroin. Based on the police report, she said it was her first time to use the drug and she did it to treat pain.
Schigel was arrested for endangering children, while Carroll was arrested for implied consent to test, operating a vehicle under the influence, endangering children, driving under suspension and failure to control according to ABC News.
Children services was contacted and the five children were released to their respective paternal grandfathers. It was unclear whether Carroll and Schigel had attorneys.
In Ohio, more than 3,300 people have died from accidental drug overdose in 2015. It went up by 21.5 percent from the previous year based on the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Ohio is among the five states with the highest death rates linked to drug overdoses.
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People with autoimmune disease and conditions have a higher risk of developing dementia later in life. A research team from the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom set out to examine how autoimmune disease leads to an increased risk of a dementia admission later in life.
Medical News Today reports that through a 14-year study, there were more than 1.8 million admissions recorded in hospitals due to autoimmune diseases. This includes 300,000 people with rheumatoid arthritis and 1,000 people with Goodpasture's Syndrome, a rare condition that affects the lungs and kidneys. Although the exact number of dementia diagnosis were not always identified, the risk was still observed to be around 6% higher for Alzheimer's and 28 percent higher for vascular dementia.
The researchers believe that this high risk associated with autoimmune diseases and vascular dementia is due to the risk factors for the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in general. The research also revealed that out of the 25 autoimmune conditions analyzed for 14 years, 18 of them showed significant associations with dementia.
This includes Addison's disease, Polyarteritis nodosa, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Multiple sclerosis posed a 97 percent increased risk of acquiring dementia among all the autoimmune diseases analyzed.
Telegraph UK reports that in Britain alone, ten million people with autoimmune diseases are at greater risk of developing dementia. Compared with people admitted in Britain hospitals for other causes, those with autoimmune diseases showed 20 percent more possibility of acquiring a form of dementia in their lifetime. People with coeliac were also recorded to have an 8 percent increase in the possibility of acquiring such mental health disease.
Further studies will be conducted for clinicians and epidemiologists to see how autoimmune diseases may elevate the risk of dementia. Results of this study also reveal evidence that shows how the immune system plays a very significant role in developing dementia. This also opens new opportunities in finding more effective treatments for such diseases.
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In fiscal year 2016, money wagered on California race cards was similar to the wagering total in FY2011, but compared with FY2011 California racetracks collected nearly $8 million less from the nearly identical betting total.
The California Horse Racing Board's annual report released earlier this month documents the challenge racing faces as the percentage of pari-mutuel money generated for tracks' and horsemen's purses declines as more handle shifts to advance-deposit wagering outlets.
Under racing's business model, after winning wagers are paid, the bulk of remaining pari-mutuel money has typically gone to tracks and purses. But as more bettors have chosen to wager through ADW sites, that third player in the equation also has to be paid, resulting in smaller percentages for tracks and purses.
In FY2016, $2,904,499,795 was wagered on California racing--for all breeds. That figure was nearly identical to FY2011, at $2,903,905,682. But the wagering in FY2016 only generated $111,997,219 for tracks compared with $119,907,554 in FY2011, a 6.6% decline.
A shift in wagering habits is behind the decline in pari-mutuel revenues generated for tracks. In FY2011, ADW handle through the licensed California ADW companies accounted for 21.1% of wagering on state tracks. In FY2016, that percentage ballooned to 30.4%, including 38% of the wagers by California residents. Because a percentage of that money goes to ADWs, there's not as much money left for track commissions and purses.
In FY2011, 4.79% of money wagered on California races went into the purse account. With a takeout increase ahead of FY2012 that committed a larger percentage of money to purses, that percentage would increase to 5.14%, but with wagering shifting to ADWs in the years that have followed, that percentage also has come down, checking in at 4.88% in FY2016.
Of course if the amount of pari-mutuel wagering was increasing, there'd figure to be more money for all involved and everyone would be happy--but that hasn't occurred. It's also safe to say that without the ADW option, total handle would have decreased rather than remain stagnant in recent years.
The ADW companies certainly deliver convenience but debate centers on the pricing of that service. In a message from Chuck Winner that begins the FY2016 annual report, the CHRB chairman said ADW companies will be asked to contribute more to the industry. He outlined the CHRB's efforts to use geo-location to count as on-track wagers bets made by on-track patrons who use their ADWs to make wagers. Winner said the CHRB also will require profit and loss statements from ADW companies and has asked ADW companies to voluntarily do more for California racing and equine charities.
Carren L. Chestnut
Carren L. Chestnut, age 61, of Boiling Springs, passed away Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at the Carlisle Regional Medical Center.
She was born September 25, 1955 in Carlisle to Roger Pete Calaman and the late Dorothy (Morrow) Calaman.
Carren was the office manager for Mira Orthopedics for Dr. Alan Miras entire career of 39 years. She loved to read and collected Longaberger baskets. Carrens family, friends and faith were the most important things to her. She was a member of Second Presbyterian Church where she was a former Deacon and assisted in teaching Sunday school.
In addition to her father, Carren is survived by: her husband of 42 years, Richard Chestnut of Boiling Springs; a sister, Joan (and husband Buz) Wolfe of Carlisle; her granddaughter, Leah Williams of Mt. Holly Springs; son-in-law, Matthew (and his wife Laurel) Williams of Mt. Holly Springs; an uncle, Richard (and wife Shirley) Calaman of Carlisle; an aunt, Jeannine Moll of Cle Elum, WA; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to her mother, Carren was preceded in death by her daughter, Jennifer Ann Williams.
A Service of Witness to the Resurrection will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at Second Presbyterian Church, 528 Garland Drive, Carlisle, PA with Rev. Dr. Jeffrey W. Gibelius and Rev. Jennifer J. McKenna officiating. Interment will be held privately and at the convenience of the family. There will not be a visitation prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jennifer Ann Chestnut Award, c/o S. Middleton School District, 4 Forge Road, Boiling Springs, PA 17007 or to Second Presbyterian Church.
Hoffman Funeral Home & Crematory, 2020 W. Trindle Road, Carlisle, PA is handling the arrangements. To sign the guestbook, please visit www.HoffmanFH.com
Cloud News
Dell Boomi's First True Channel Chief Sees A Big Partner Play For Data Integration
Joseph Tsidulko
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Dell Boomi's first dedicated channel chief told CRN he sees his mission as preparing partners for a boom in cloud-based data integration fueled by the trend of digital transformation.
David Tavolaro, who became Boomi's vice president of global business development in December, said the independent software division within Dell would revamp its channel program later in the year to better facilitate partners that face a ramping demand for its Integration Platform-as-a-Service.
Boomi, based in Berwyn, Pa., offers a broad set of tools that enable partners to unify data across an enterprise environment. The platform was ranked highest on both axes of Gartner's last iPaaS Magic Quadrant.
[Related: Here Are The 5 Leaders In Gartner's 2016 Magic Quadrant For Integration Platform-As-A-Service]
With the proliferation of disparate applications and data sources, cloud-based integration platforms are increasingly essential components of enterprise digital transformation initiatives, Tavolaro told CRN.
"There are more endpoints, more applications than ever, and a need to go faster than ever," he said. "And that's where Boomi fits in."
Research firm MarketsandMarkets recently estimated the total iPaaS market would grow from $528 million in 2016 to nearly $3 billion by 2021.
Driving that 40 percent compound growth are efforts to modernize IT systems, add mobility and Internet of Things solutions, and challenges posed by mergers and acquisitions, Tavolaro told CRN.
Boomi currently works with more than 260 channel partners who drive more than half of its revenue. The company was always channel-centric, even before acquired by Dell in 2010, said its new channel chief, who spent most of his career working for large systems integrators.
Tavolaro came to Boomi from Anexinet, an SI based in Philadelphia. Before that, he was in the partner organization within CSC.
At those companies, he saw the value of integration technology.
"I came to Boomi because I saw this integration problem proliferating at all of our clients and at a rapid rate," Tavolaro told CRN.
Dell also saw the value in owning a leading iPaaS vendor, he said.
The IT giant sold off the bulk of its software assets to help finance its acquisition of EMC, but maintained Boomi. While Boomi operates independently of its parent, the relationship with Dell benefits the company, both as a channel for its product and a source of expertise when needed, Tavolaro said.
Boomi, in addition to application integration, offers master data management, Electronic Data Interchange and API management services. Together, those services constitute a unified platform that business partners, be they global SIs or ISVs, can leverage to address customer needs, he told CRN.
"That gives our partners a ton of functionality built into one platform, managed in the cloud, deployed wherever you want it to be," Tavolaro said.
Boomi is also seeing a lot of growth in its channel among managed services providers who are looking to maintain complex systems of integration for clients. Software developers looking to OEM the integration component are also increasingly common as partners.
Tavolaro said now that he's settled into the job over the last few months Boomi never before had a leader solely focused on channel sales changes are in the works for the global program. They will include measures to better enable partners with sales support, tools and training.
He also wants to focus more on Boomi Suggest, an artificial intelligence agent that evaluates the Boomi community to offer guidance in mapping data, and Boomi Resolve, which crowdsources error resolution.
Larry Cone, founder and chief solution architect at Kitepipe, headquartered in Wilmington, N.C., told CRN "the upside is limitless" in the market. He was first introduced to Boomi as a customer and has since created a practice that exclusively implements Boomi's platform.
Boomi was initially introduced as a simple solution at the lower end of the market, Cone said, and it certainly can be a simple tool to use. You can drag-and-drop shapes on a canvas to get an integration running in minutes.
But the platform's more sophisticated integration capabilities are increasingly in demand, and they can only be delivered by highly trained partners.
"Boomi has been going upmarket into larger organizations. The projects are bigger, service opportunities are bigger," Cone told CRN. "They're increasingly going to sell it as the enterprise-class integration platform, and that's going to drive the need for partners with deeper knowledge, more experience, and more templated solutions."
For that reason, Tavolaro, who Cone has yet to meet, has the right idea in focusing on partner enablement and training.
Even many Boomi partners "dont realize how deep and complex a tool it is," Cone told CRN.
Margee Ensign brings a vision of community formed in both academia and under the threat of terrorism to her new role as the president of Dickinson College.
Dickinson College announced Monday that Ensign will become the colleges 29th president on July 1. Ensign will fill the vacancy left by Nancy Roseman, who resigned as the colleges 28th president last year after three years in the position. Provost and Dean of the College Neil Weissman has served as interim president since July 2016.
Ensign said she wasnt able to visit Carlisle beyond the walls of Dickinson College as much as she would have liked during the interview process, but that she is looking forward to visiting the community and developing the important relationship between Carlisle and the college.
For an idea of what might be accomplished in Carlisle, Ensign referenced her previous work as president of the American University of Nigeria in Yola, Nigeria, and in leadership at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. In both positions, she said relationships were cultivated in a way that benefited the students and the community.
We established deep and strong community relationships, Ensign said.
The challenges at Carlisle will, however, be far different than those she faced during her term as president at AUN where she led efforts to care for internally displaced people who were fleeing Boko Haram in Nigeria. Boko Haram is a militant Islamic group working out of Nigeria, whose purpose is to institute Sharia, or Islamic law. Its militants mainly inhabit areas in the northern states of Nigeria.
In a video posted to the Dickinson College website, Ensign called the work the most important activity she had been involved in as the community at AUN came together to feed nearly 300,000 people and created programs that kept young people from joining Boko Haram.
Ive learned the power of community. Ive learned what happens when people from diverse backgrounds and diverse perspectives come together to solve problems, she said.
Ensign said she believes the basic principles of establishing a strong presence in the community are transferable between Nigeria and the relatively peaceful atmosphere in Carlisle. Its vital to gather the leaders before an intense situation arises, and, with them, to conduct an analysis of the communitys needs.
You have to make sure those who know the challenges are at the table, Ensign said.
The role of a new leader, then, is to listen to those on-campus and off-campus who can express their concerns and offer multiple perspectives, Ensign said. Its her plan to do just that.
Its up to me to learn what we are doing and how that can be extended, she said.
Computer users who have been affected by the Dharma ransomware and have held onto their encrypted files can now restore them for free. Researchers have created decryption tools for this ransomware strain after someone recently leaked the decryption keys.
Dharma first appeared in November and is based on an older ransomware program known as Crysis. It's easy to recognize files affected by it because they will have the extension: .[email_address].dharma, where the email address is the one used by the attacker as a point of contact.
On Wednesday, a user named gektar published a link to a Pastebin post on the BleepingComputer.com technical support forum. The post, he claimed, contained the decryption keys for all Dharma variants.
Interestingly, the exact same thing happened back in November with the keys for Crysis, Dharma's predecessor, allowing researchers to create decryption tools for it.
It's not clear who gektar is or what his or her reasons were for leaking the Dharma keys. The username appears to have been created on the forum just for this purpose and has had no other activity since then.
There's also no information about how the keys were obtained in the first place. However, they were included in a C header file, which could suggest that the leaker had access to the ransomware program's source code.
The good news is that the leaked keys are real, and researchers from Kaspersky Lab and ESET verified they work. The two companies have updated their Crysis decryption tools -- downloads at Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor and ESET CrysisDecryptor -- to work for Dharma affected files, too.
This should serve as a reminder to ransomware victims to keep a copy of their affected files, even if they decide not to give into attackers' ransom demands. Researchers sometimes find flaws in the encryption implementations of ransomware programs that allow them to break the encryption keys. Other times law enforcement authorities seize command-and-control servers used by ransomware gangs and release the decryption keys.
From time to time, like in this case, the keys find their way online due to unexplained leaks: Maybe a ransomware developer decides to close up shop and publish the keys, or maybe a hacker breaks into a rival gang's servers and releases the keys to harm its operations. The point is: Hold onto those files, for months or even years if you need to.
It's a good idea to check the tools section of the NoMoreRansom.org website regularly. The website is maintained by a coalition of security companies and law enforcement agencies and is frequently updated with new information and decryption tools.
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Howard Schmidt, who passed away yesterday morning at his home after a battle with cancer, was a storied figure in world of cybersecurity.
He advised both President Brack Obama and George W. Bush on cybersecurity. He was a CSO at Microsoft and a CISO at eBay. He led several industry groups, and wrote books on cybersecurity.
But when security professionals remember him, it is not so much for his technical accomplishments as for the impact he had on the people around him. He is remembered as a mentor, a communicator, and an educator.
"He does have a very storied path of accomplishment," said Mary Ann Davidson, CSO at Redwood City, Calif.-based Oracle Corp. "From a security standpoint, he had a tremendous impact, the many roles he played, the work in the white house."
Davidson first met Schmidt when he was at Microsoft. Schmidt joined the company in 1997, and served as the director of information security, as CISO, and as CSO.
"I do not think I would have had the professional success I've had if not for Howard," she said. "He was just so generous for so many people. He was the most generous colleague you could possibly imagine. He drew people into his orbit, and he treated the lowly security newbie the same way as the very senior executive. He was very kind, very thoughtful. When he engaged with you, you felt like the most important person in the room. How many people can you say that about?"
It was those personal connections that have created the biggest impact on the industry, she said.
"The ripple effect has to do with the lives he touched," she said. "All those individuals who he encouraged with a kind word, drawing them into something, helping them gain experience and go forth and do great things in security."
One of those people was Kurt Van Etten, vice president, product management at Sunnyvale, Calif.-based RedSeal, Inc., who served as the director of information security programs at eBay under Schmidt.
"Howard was my first introduction into the information security space while he was the CISO at eBay," he said. "He did a lot for the team members to develop their careers, introduce them to other members in the security field, making sure to help them advance. In both the jobs I've applied for since I left eBay, Howard was one of my references, and both times he called immediately, spent 30 minutes to an hour with the hiring manager."
Schmidt took the time to make the call even though he was busy at the White House.
"That shows his passion with taking care of his team members," Van Etten said. "Having such an authoritative person take that kind of time helped me land these positions and I'm very grateful for that."
In government and in professional organizations, Schmidt's passion for security and his rare ability to talk about the subject with people from very different backgrounds, drew talent to him.
"He brought in really great people," said Ari Schwartz,managing director of cybersecurity services and policy at Washington, D.C.-based law firm Venable LLP. "He had the best mix of folks from the CIA, the FBI, State, the Commerce Department. Howard was just really great at making connections. He was really good at knowing who needed to talk to who, how to talk to a certain audience about security."
Schwartz worked at the Commerce Department when Schmidt was first ever White House cybersecurity coordinator. Later on, Schwartz himself moved to the White House, were he served as the director for cybersecurity privacy, civil liberties and privacy and then as the special assistant to the President and senior director for cybersecurity.
According to Schwartz, Schmidt could talk to people from the privacy side and understand what they wanted. He could talk to bankers, to retailers, to many different audiences.
"It's very rare, to be able to do that," Schwartz said. "There just aren't that many people who have been able to speak to all those audiences. And as security has become a bigger and bigger issue, we see the need for those types of people more and more."
Adrienne Hall, general manager at Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft Corp.: Howard was a pioneer in cybersecurity, and we were fortunate to have him as our chief security officer from 1997 to 2002. We extend our sympathy to Howards family, friends and colleagues.
Darin Anderson, co-founder and CEO at San Diego-based CyberUnited, Inc.: "Howard was a great relationship person and mentored me on two boards of directors that we were on together. He's somebody who definitely made the world a safer place with his good heart, good will, and tireless energy."
Carl Wright, general manager at San Mateo, Calif.-based TrapX: "Howard Schmidt was a leader and visionary in recognizing the impending escalation of the cybersecurity threat years before it was visible to most of us. Over his last years in government service within the Obama administration, Howard was able to bring important and progressive changes to cybersecurity policy that continue to positively impact all of us. Howard's past military service was also important - it helped shape his views and tolerance in positioning the right response to increased nation state cyber threats. The cybersecurity industry has lost a great mentor and a great leader."
Gadi Evron, co-founder and CEO at Pleasanton, Calif.-based Cymmetria, Inc.: "I'm saddened to hear about Howard A. Schmidt's passing. He helped build cybersecurity as a discipline, helped many, and did a lot for the security of the world at large -- in and out of the White House. He also advised Cymmetria for a while, helping me when I got things started. I'll need to process for a while. He will be missed by many."
Hank Thomas, partner and COO at Washington, DC-based Strategic Cyber Ventures: "I remember in 2010 when Howard was instrumental in developing an unclassified description of the Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative. For the cyber community, it served as the first big publicly available announcement of the governments massive financial push into the shadowy world of cybersecurity. It opened the conversation to others critical to solving what is clearly our nations most pressing national security issue, impacting everything from our economy to our defense. His efforts led to the rapid development of many of the public-private partnerships that are instrumental to our cybersecurity posture today."
Jim Reavis, CEO at Seattle-based Cloud Security Alliance: "Howard was a key figure in many of the industry's seminal milestones, from the launch of Trustworthy Computing at Microsoft to the establishment of a cybersecurity capability in the federal government in the wake of 9/11. Howard was a bundle of energy that was fueled by intense patriotism and a great sense of humor. He had a friend in every port, and although he is gone too soon, he accomplished more in his time than any of us can dream to match. Godspeed Howard, and thank you for your wisdom and friendship."
Marios Damianides, past ISACA board chair and partner at London-based Ernst & Young: "First, my condolences to Howards family for their loss. It is a sad day for all of us, including his friends, colleagues and the security world. I worked with him some years back when we were working on closer alignment between our respective organizations -- ISSA and ISACA. It was my honor to present Howard with an honorary CISM certification in 2003, and his contributions as a member of ISACAs IT Governance Advisory Panel proved invaluable. He has always been a terrific leader and visionary in the security world and was not afraid to share perspectives and be provocative. He served his country with dignity and was always proud of that service as well as his contributions to the security industry and thinking. He will be missed."
Paul Calatayud, CTO at Overland Park, Kansas-based FireMon: I had the privilege of meeting Howard a few times when I was CISO. I found his understanding of the cyber industry truly fascinating and, more important, consumable by the masses. When you are in our field, the biggest challenge is not understanding the threats, its being able to apply the threats to business and national state leaders to allow them to be able to make key decisions. Howard had this gift and I truly respected him for his leadership.
Michael Barrett, founder and CEO at Mountain View, Calif.-based Stealth Security, Inc.: "I first met Howard back almost exactly two decades ago, when he started as CISO at Microsoft. I stayed in contact with him over the intervening years, and count him as one of my good friends in the cybersecurity business. As I was the first CISO at PayPal and he had just left the job as CISO at eBay a couple of months before I joined, I leaned on him a lot about where the bodies were buried and what the political landscape was. He was incredibly helpful to me over that period of time, and a big part of my initial success there can be directly attributed to the sage advice he gave me. In fact, that was another of Howards characteristics he always paid it forward and did what he could to help those more junior in the industry. Even if you hadnt been directly helped by Howard, the fact that he was such a public role model for how it should be done was inspiring in its own right."
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Decades ago privacy really wasnt that much of an ongoing issue. In the days of agrarian society everyone seemed to know about everyone elses business and personal lives. As we moved forward into an era of denser population centers due to the advent of of the industrial revolution suddenly, we collectively found a greater yearning for privacy.
In this current day and age we find ourselves slipping back to the agrarian mindset in some ways. Governments the world over are moving to strip privacy from their citizens under the guise of security. One was the battle cry was to protect the children which has given way, in most respects, to the fight against terrorism. That logic has the appearance of being sound for people who are afraid will be less likely to argue.
I personally have always loathed the argument that you have nothing to fear if you have nothing to hide. Personally I say nuts to that. None of your damn business. The only thing Im a threat to is a cup of coffee. Now, with reports that the US government will be asking travelers to provide their social media accounts at border crossings it really sank in that it is time to say something about this trend.
I had the opportunity to speak with Adrian Mahieu, security expert and CEO of Cortex Insight about this very subject. I asked him the following, in the current political climate what do you see as the future of privacy?
Mahieu had this to say, Installation of Signal is at an all time high with month on month increase in users. More users installing Telegram and Wickr.
Awareness of WhatsApp metadata logging and media frenzy over a perceived issue that didnt really exist.Border search & seize of electronic device worries are at an all time high - good/bad travel advise is all over social media with respect to this.
One very interesting thing is happening though : These technical tools are now being used by Millenials as a matter of course - they as an age group care more about their privacy than many"
I must admit that I too use Signal. Shifting gears a little, I wanted to know about the push for governments to access systems. Taking in to account the move by governments to seek encryption backdoors is it safe to assume we are heading to a privacy crossroads?
Weve been there a while.
Every government from the past few elections has talked at some stage of backdooring encryption and we are not there yet.
As Alec Muffet said - 'There is no such thing as a secure backdoor.
Put one in and itll be more than the US/UK that will like it.
The thought that a countries products may come with backdoors haunts of the clipper era.
Europe in general will not tolerate products made in the US that are suspected of having such. Indeed at a security conference in France last year - the majority of buyers were said to be looking for French products developed in France. It is not a recent thing that German information security products are bought above any others in Germany. People are starting to care where their products are developed.
With increased trade pressure this may become more prevalent as it becomes harder to ship physical security products. With software and online distribution it may be easier."
Supply chain issues, as they relate to privacy, are no small matter when you consider the information that came to light as a result of papers disclosed in the Snowden breach. But, what of the penalties for companies that breach information? We have seen a precedent in the Yahoo data breach disclosures that had a massive impact on the sale of the company to Verizon.
I asked Mahieu, in light of the spate of privacy breaches that we have witnessed, such as Cloudpets, should there be damages for privacy violations?
Yes and this has already started and been going on for a while in some countries.
The information commissioner in the UK has the power to fine companies.
Back in 2010 it started: From Tuesday 6 April, the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) will get enhanced powers to fine organisations up to 500,000 for serious breaches of the Data Protection Act. Previously the maximum fine was a paltry 5,000. - still a drop in the ocean for some organizations"
This is a move that I believe will snow ball across the globe in an effort by governments to try and provide legislation as a vehicle to bring companies into line with how they handle privacy related data. I was curious if there was any more on this front. Mahieu had this to offer,
The bigger sticks are coming.. the biggest is GDPR.
GDPR - you are liable for a fine of up to 4% of your global turnover. Turnover - not profit. For companies with razor thin margins this could prove terminal. It applies to all companies operating in the EU.
There have been many briefings about GDPR from law firms and consultancies - trade organizations are highlighting it as well. "
In the past year we have seen some massive data breaches disclosed and the implications that arise from those breaches are clear. The time to hold organizations accountable for how they handle your data has arrived with bigger sticks.
There was a terrible noise that carried for several street blocks when the raging water tore away two spans of the Old Camelback Bridge.
The anxious eyes of hundreds of onlookers witnessed the spectacle of the Susquehanna River flowing fast at 20 feet above flood stage Saturday into Sunday, March 1-2, 1902.
The Daily Journal of Mechanicsburg reported how people had gathered on both banks to watch a path of destruction set in motion the day before by heavy rainfall and snowmelt upstream.
The Carlisle Daily Record described how the rush of runoff into the river brought with it huge cakes of ice and logs ... (that) whirled down ... the awful current early Saturday morning.
All that afternoon, bridge custodians watched as the debris hammered into the support structures of the second pier out from the Harrisburg shore.
The punishment continued into Saturday evening when shortly before 11 p.m., there was a loud crash followed by a vibration that shuddered the bridge.
The danger was so obvious, officials ordered all traffic to cease on the combination viaduct and Cumberland Valley Railroad bridge just downstream from the Camelback.
Residents switched on a searchlight around midnight March 2 to reveal the sagging timbers of an impending disaster that played out 75 minutes later when bridge spans separated from the pier with a loud crash.
What remained of the bridge crashed a short time later into the metal span that carried trains across the river to the West Shore and beyond to Carlisle, Shippensburg and Chambersburg.
The wood ground against the iron girders of the viaduct and set it vibrating to a perceptible extent, The Herald reported. The remnants of the span were gradually forced under the water and carried down in a twisted mass, the woodwork still clinging to a great extent.
The Cumberland Valley bridge was found to have been moved an inch or two by the shock with the spans carried away and some of the smaller structural iron was badly twisted, The Herald story read. No trains were allowed to cross until yesterday (Sunday) morning when examination showed that it had been materially damaged.
Flood waters
The demise of the Camelback bridge was just the culmination of days of front-page reports from newspapers across Cumberland County tracking a wave of flood water flowing down the valley. The miserable weather of that winter 115 years ago was destined to continue.
The Daily Journel reported on March 5 that Mechanicsburg was in the midst of a blizzard that put to shame the flooding before with drifts as deep as 14 inches in places.
The high water almost drowned J.W. Fulton, an orchard farmer from Adams County. Fulton was traveling with a Mr. Martin to Oakville, North Newton Township, when they drove the wagon into a deep hole in the road, The Herald reported on March 1.
The team (of horses) and men were all swamped in the water. The buggy was upset and the occupants were thrown out, escaping in an almost miraculous manner, Mr. Martin rescuing Mr. Fulton from a watery grave. They managed to recover and walk the horses to Oakville.
Road bridges across the county were swept away as though they were built of straw, The Herald reported. Flood water had washed away a 75-foot section of the Cumberland Valley Railroad near the Shippensburg Normal School the future Shippensburg University.
Williams Grove in Monroe Township was submerged in a sea of water about 3 feet deep, The Daily Journal had reported on Feb. 28. As far as the eye can see not a particle of land can be seen. It surpasses anything ever before known to that section. The grove was the host site of the popular Grangers Picnic, which was one of the largest agricultural expositions in the country.
The extent of the flooding defied the living memory of Cumberland County residents. The Herald described how water covered fields on both sides of the Cumberland Valley Railroad from Mechanicsburg west to Carlisle.
Large ponds covering several acres each are seen in all directions, the newspaper reported on Feb. 27. A day later, The Evening Sentinel in Carlisle reported how the borough had suffered the worst flood in her history. Below is an excerpt:
The heavy rains of this morning swelled the old LeTort and other streams to tremendous proportions ... Beginning at North Street the whole East end of Carlisle is under water, almost as far west as East Street. The Conodoguinet is exceedingly high. Strange as it may seem the flood came in two hours time. At 6 oclock this morning the spring was not bank full. At 10 it was high, at 12 it was swollen into a rushing river of exceptional force, sweeping bridges, fences, porches, etc. before it as if they were mere toys.
The Sentinel reported how Porter Avenue residents were surrounded by water and had to be rescued by wagon. In the Addison ODonnell house on East Louther Street, the flood came in through the kitchen door and out through the front door. Elsewhere the steady flow caused a bridge on Main Street (present-day East High Street) to buckle in the center rendering its travel lane and footpath impassable.
The Gas & Water Co. plant was fully submerged and shut down. Lack of electricity sidelined local industry as the flood came within a foot of reaching the dynamo. The trolley power house on Pomfret Street had about 14 inches of water in its boiler room coming within five inches of extinguishing the fires.
The worst of the flooding in Carlisle was over by Saturday morning, March 1, when The Carlisle Daily Herald painted this word picture on its front-page above the fold:
The sun rose this morning in full splendor, as though a cloud had never darkened the heavens, and the LeTort flowed placidly in its customary course in apparent ignorance of its unseemly conduct yesterday. But beneath these pleasing appearances were vague memories and more substantial reminders of the big flood.
The lower stories of residences on East North, Louther, High and Pomfret streets, in which water had risen to the height of several feet, presented a sorrowful aspect. A sediment of hideous black and sticky mud lay several inches thick upon the floors and covered the furniture that had not been taken upstairs. The residents were busy at an early hour removing this unpleasant visitor.
The Herald reported that water almost 30 inches deep had flowed through the ODonnell home. The family lost 50 to 60 rabbits to drowning.
But Cumberland County and the lower Susquehanna Valley was not alone in its misery. Heavy rain and snowmelt caused creeks, streams and rivers to overflow throughout Pennsylvania. The Sentinel reported on March 1 how the flood destroyed a bridge near Bedford, swept away livestock near Wilkes-Barre, forced miners in Scranton to wade through neck-deep water and completely paralyzed industry in Johnstown idling 15,000 workers.
Calendar Girls / Contributed photo
You may have thought youd seen it all, but Calendar Girls might prove you wrong.
The Warner Stage Companys version of the hit 2003 British comedy film runs Saturday, March 11, to Sunday, March 19, at the Warner Theatre in Torrington.
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There's a vast landscape out there for nightlife. So when you're in the mood to head out for a night on the town, it's important to know what you're getting into.
We talked to podcast host and local bar expert Ken Tuccio to find out the different types of bars you'll encounter in the area.
Fairfield County
"Fairfield County is the most competitive market in the state. People want quality beer and cocktails and bar tenders who know what's up. They want to be able to walk into a bar and have the bartender give them advice," Tuccio said.
Fairfield County is known for being where the fancy people liveand to an extent that's true when it comes to the bar scene. As Tuccio said, New York City is the place from which all trends trickle down, and Fairfield County is right next door. So, it's no surprise that many of NYC's nightlife trends have been adaptedfrom craft cocktails, to knowledgeable mixologists, sophisticated lounge atmospheres and boozy brunch.
"A lot of the bars you see in Fairfield County are bars that were popular in NYC years ago," he said.
The Valley
Tuccio, who now lives in Norwalk, grew up in The Valley and said there's a unique culture there. They even have special drinking nights like Valley New Year, which is the night before Thanksgivinga huge night for bar hopping.
"These are meat and potato, salt of the earth people. They want to have a good time and hang out with friends," he said. "Some places have really high quality beer on tap, but people are also content going out with buddies and getting a Bud light. It's so different from Fairfield County."
Tuccio said the Hartford area has a similar vibe. Though West Hartford has adapted a vibe more similar to Fairfield Countycase in point, they have a bartaco and a Barcelona.
Greater Danbury Area
Champagne taste or not, the Danbury area has something for everyone. Tuccio likes the Greater Danbury area because you can find fancy cocktail bars as well as local watering holes where the locals have been coming for years.
"The Danbury area is nice because it's a combo of educated people who know what they likeand like qualitybut you also have that home-town feel. You can go to a local bar and see people you grew up with. It's the best of both worlds," he said.
NEW BRITAIN Board of Regents President Mark Ojakian brought a self-described doom and gloom speech on the need to make drastic system budget cuts to students on Friday, hoping to generate fresh ideas.
Fundamental changes need to be made Ojakian said in an address streamed across the system from the Central Connecticut State University campus. You deserve the truth.
The state budget proposed by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy does not go easy on the Connecticut State College and University system which includes four universities, 12 community colleges and an online degree program.
The system runs on $1.2 billion and gets 41 percent of its budget from the state. The states share has been shrinking for years.
Best case scenario for 2017-18, Ojakian said, is a 4.4 or $33 million state cut. Worst case, he added, is a $92 million cut if the state fails in an effort to get health and pension concessions from state employee bargaining groups.
There really is no good news here, Ojakian said. Tuition does have to be part of the equation.
Still, Ojakian pledged not to slap students with a double digit tuition increase.
Instead the answers will be found in shorter library hours, fewer support services, and perhaps less security on certain campuses.
That concerned Jonathan Malia, 22, a student senator at Naugatuck Valley Community College and resident of Sandy Hook.
Instead of getting rid of guards, he suggested student business clubs raise funds to support their campuses.
Ojakian called it a great idea and suggested Malia spearhead the effort.
Devra Baxter from Southern Connecticut State University worried about cuts to the Roberta Willis Scholarship program, a needs-based scholarship program run by the state. It is slated to be cut by $2.1 million over each of the next to years under the governors budget.
I wouldnt be honest if I said it wasnt going to have an impact, Ojakian conceded.
Lisa McCree, student senate president at Housatonic Community College, wondered if budget cuts are inevitable is there a way students can go after stipends and internships in the community to help them subsidize their education.
There is a lot of that happening already. We just need to take that to the next level, Ojakian said.
Other students called for smoother transfer policies and in-state tuition programs to draw in out-of-state students. One such program is starting in the fall at Western Connecticut state University in Danbury.
lclambeck@ctpost.com; @lclambeck
WASHINGTON In the Democrats weekly radio address, Sen. Chris Murphy poked fun at GOP confusion over repealing and replacing Obamacare, telling Republicans they know where to find him if they want to stop playing politics, and start working together.
In the speech, recorded Friday, Murphy, D-Conn., called the impromptu Capitol Hill scavenger hunt Thursday in search of the GOP replacement quite a scene.
Several lawmakers, including Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., scoured the basement passageways under the Capitol to locate a purported top-secret Obamacare replacement bill. But the mysterious draft was not where they thought it was, and the whole episode appears to have been a Republican prank.
The Democratic weekly address is the partys opportunity to rebut President Donald Trump, who delivers his own weekly radio address. Democrats divide the responsibility, and it was Murphys turn at the mic for this weekend.
Murphy went on to criticize the secrecy of Republican efforts, saying their refusal to allow even a peek at the draft underscores its unpopularity right out of the gate.
If Washington Republicans thought their plan would get praise, theyd let in the cameras, Murphy said.
He also said Republicans wont admit that the Affordable Care Act is working for many people, and that it can be fixed without repealing it. Murphy accused Republicans of trying to undermine Obamacare through an executive order allowing agencies to do what they see fit to ease the burdens of the act.
Republicans are trying to destroy the health care reform law so that they never even have to pass a repeal bill, Murphy said.
He also brought up Trumps meeting with insurance CEOs on Monday. Had the president met with patients instead, they would have asked him to work with both parties to keep what works in the Affordable Care Act, and fix the parts that could use improvement, Murphy said.
Trump met with several insurance executives, including those from Aetna and UnitedHealth, two of the largest health insurance companies that serve Connecticut. He has repeatedly called Obamacare a disaster in the final stages of a self-destructing death spiral.
Despite the critical tone toward his Republican peers, Murphys final message was its not too late for both parties to work to make the law better, reduce costs, and increase choice.
laura.lindarte@hearstdc.com
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WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal said Thursday that Attorney General Jeff Sessions misled him and other Senate Judiciary Committee members about Sessions contact with a Russian official.
Sessions should resign, Blumenthal said, if he cannot adequately explain his misstatement.
I think Jeff Sessions needs to be brought back before the Judiciary Committee and provide an explanation for how he could have omitted, and in fact denied, conversations with Russians during the campaign, while Russia was attacking our democracy through cyber warfare, said Blumenthal, D-Conn., who as a member of the committee participated in Sessions January confirmation hearing. If he cannot provide an explanation, his resignation is necessary.
The Washington Post reported Sessions met twice with Russias ambassador, Sergey Kislyak, but told senators, I did not have communications with the Russians.
In a late-afternoon news conference, Sessions declined to step aside, but told reporters he would recuse himself from all matters regarding contacts between Russia and the Trump campaign.
He insisted his answer to a question by Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., at the hearing was honest and correct, drawing a distinction between meeting Russias ambassador and its intelligence apparatus.
However, Sessions acknowledged that, I should have slowed down and said, But I did meet one Russian official a couple of times.
Sessions, a former senator from Alabama who was a constant presence at Trumps campaign events, reportedly met Kislyak in his Senate office in September, and then greeted him and other ambassadors after a speech in July at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland.
The attorney generals spokesman released a statement saying contact with the Russian ambassador was made in Sessions capacity as a senator and a member of the Armed Services Committee, not as a surrogate for the Trump campaign.
Republicans rallied to Sessions defense. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, on MSNBC called the meetings a nothingburger.
On a visit to a Navy ship, the USS Gerald R. Ford, in Newport News, Va., Trump stated he had total confidence in Sessions.
With Trump praising Russian President Vladimir Putin during the campaign, Russias efforts to tilt the election were thought to be grounded in the hope Trump might lift sanctions on Russia for its aggressive behavior in Crimea and Ukraine. Any federal investigation likely would focus on any promises Trump campaign officials made to Russia.
Blumenthal was one voice in a chorus of Democrats calling on Sessions to step down.
At this point, the only way to get a fair investigation of Trump/Russia ties is with a new AG, Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said in a tweet. Sessions should resign.
Blumenthal and other Democrats also called for appointment of an independent counsel to unearth any contacts between the Trump campaign and Russian officials.
The continuing revelations underscore the need for a special prosecutor to assure public confidence in the integrity of this very serious investigation, Rep. Elizabeth Esty, D-Conn., said in a statement. If Attorney General Sessions is unable to provide a more credible explanation for his statements and actions involving the Russians in the course of this investigation, then he should resign.
Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., was among House intelligence members who spent three hours behind closed doors Thursday with FBI Director James Comey, who would be in charge of whatever investigation federal law enforcement is conducting on pre-election Trump campaign ties to Russia.
We had hoped that Comey would share with us all relevant information with respect to possible Trump campaign (contacts) with Russia, but he declined to do that, Himes said. I would not characterize the meeting as without substance, but there were a lot of questions Comey felt he couldnt answer.
dan@hearstdc.com
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Despite Gov. Dannel P. Malloys pledge to shield non-criminal undocumented residents from President Trumps immigration crackdown, Connecticut has a wide-ranging agreement with the federal government that gives ICE access to state data including Department of Motor Vehicles records.
That data includes names and home addresses of nearly 28,000 mostly undocumented immigrants who signed up for the states drive-only licenses, and potentially another 26,000 who have applied for them.
The Malloy administration says that federal privacy laws restrict the federal governments ability to use that data as part of Trumps crackdown. But an executive order Trump signed after taking office says that federal privacy laws dont apply to undocumented immigrants.
Its like an intact list with everybody illegal on it, said Danbury-based immigrant rights organizer Rolando Castro. They know where everybody's at.
The Department of Homeland Security released memos late last month pledging to hire 10,000 new officers in Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, to reinstate local and federal cooperation in deportation efforts and to expand the federal definition of criminality for undocumented immigrants. Shortly afterward, Malloy told local police departments that they dont have to cooperate with the crackdown and said the state wont hand over incriminating information to the federal government.
But experts say his pledges might do little to stop a DHS crackdown because the feds already have access to the Connecticut On-Line Law Enforcement Communications Teleprocessing system, or COLLECT, through a state-federal agreement that is renewed annually.
Malloy, when asked about COLLECT DMV data, said, Well enforce our laws and exercise our rights under the Constitution in support of our laws.
Spokesperson Kelly Donnelly said the state gives the DMV commissioner discretion over releasing information and records, and commissioner Michael Bzdyra, as were police chiefs, was advised last month not to take any special action against undocumented immigrants, she said.
No one can go to the DMV and ask for a mass download, Donnelly said.
Whats unclear, however, is whether the state has already unwittingly set the stage for a mass download if or when ICE agents see fit, immigration lawyers and advocates said.
To protect residents from being profiled, a slew of state and federal privacy laws make it illegal to use COLLECT to pull up the names and addresses of a subset of the data, such as a list of undocumented immigrants, said Michael Lawlor, state undersecretary for criminal justice policy and planning.
But in a Jan. 25 executive order entitled Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States, the Trump administration said those laws no longer protect undocumented immigrants.
Agencies shall, to the extent consistent with applicable law, ensure that their privacy policies exclude persons who are not United States citizens or lawful permanent residents from the protections of the Privacy Act regarding personally identifiable information, the order says.
State officials also say the COLLECT interface is an effective way of keeping ICE from using Connecticuts system as a pool to fish for undocumented immigrants. COLLECT searches are logged, and any agent using the system must be cleared to use the data set. For every search, an agent must input his name and the name of the person sought, therefore making a massive information pull difficult, Lawlor said.
But immigration rights advocates question whether the states safeguards are adequate.
Several city immigrant advocates said residents with drive-only licenses dont know what to think about the program in the Trump era.
Theyre all so on their toes, Castro said. We know nothing until something happens.
If ICE decides to use COLLECT, despite privacy laws and the states wishes, a court battle is likely, said Douglas Penn, a Stamford-based immigration attorney affiliated with the national American Immigration Lawyers Association.
In an ideal world, DHS attorneys would see they need probable cause, Penn said.
Yale University clinical law professor Michael Wishnie said he doubts the federal mandate to waive privacy rights for undocumented immigrants could be construed as a mandate to waive state ones. Other experts agreed.
Wishnie said that the state could renegotiate its agreement with the federal government if ICE starts using COLLECT in ways the state sees unfit.
This is very significant, considering that it appears that the DMV makes its data available to ICE, he said.
Malloy has been very careful to limit the states cooperation with ICE, and this agreement and its consequences seem incongruous with the states stance, he added.
This appears to be a blanket data dump, he said.
Drive-only licenses, put into effect in 2015, have been heralded as a step toward legalizing routine aspects of undocumented life.
Just last week, Danbury-based immigrant rights organizer Wilson Hernandez was among several other activists in Hartford lobbying against a bill to kill the program. But Hernandez said he and other advocates nevertheless have mixed feelings about it.
Whoever carries (drive-only) licenses are really automatically identified, Hernandez said. Many of my friends have them, they are very concerned rightfully so.
State Rep. Peter Tercyak (D-New Britain), who co-sponsored the drive-only bill in 2013, said legislators didnt consider whether the program could be used against undocumented immigrants when they were crafting it. But, echoing Lawlor, he stressed that COLLECTs interface is an effective protection against federal agents using the database against the states wishes.
Tercyak added that those with drive-only licenses arent all undocumented. For example, a citizen could get one if he chose not to get a REAL ID-compliant license or forgot to bring proof of citizenship while visiting the DMV.
Though U.S. citizens can get a drive-only license, there is little incentive for them to do so and the program is marketed mainly to undocumented immigrants. The drive-only application checklist is available in Spanish, and the DMV overview web page says the DMV has started a Drive-Only program for undocumented individuals who are 16 or older and cannot establish their legal presence in the United States or may not have a Social Security number.
In Bridgeport last week, the city again delayed implementing city ID cards, fearing they could be used to identify undocumented residents.
The Department of Homeland Security pays the state about $27,600 a year for access to this database to perform criminal research and background checks in order to enhance ability to identify and locate criminal aliens, according to the states COLLECT agreement.
In DHS memos released last month, the agency expanded the definition of criminal undocumented immigrant and did away with Obama-era restrictions on who can be sought for deportation. Law experts say the DHS now paints undocumented criminality with a broad brush.
The state-DHS arrangement has an annual opt-in caveat every year through 2020. No contract spelling out what federal agencies can or cant see in the state database which includes DMV records, state prison records and criminal histories exists, state officials said.
Immigration experts are calling on the state to cut or curtail DHS access to the database when the agreement comes up for renewal in June.
If no contract exists, its likely the case that the feds have been turned loose, said Dan Barrett, Connecticut ACLU legal director. Unless I can see some restrictions, that means there are none Theres an unavoidable inference of that. Are there no limitations on the feds use of COLLECT?
Lawlor said opting out is unrealistic because every police department needs the program to do its daily work, which seldom has anything to do with immigration enforcement. The state cant just pick which federal agencies it works with, he said.
Universal access to this information is how every state does it, Lawlor said.
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The Republican gubernatorial contender with the most cash in the bank for a presumptive 2018 run is catching flak from a GOP rival for contributing to a liberal New York congressman who refused to shake Donald Trumps hand this week.
Fairfield conservative Peter Lumaj gave $2,000 in 2009 to U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel, D-N.Y., a vociferous critic of Trump who represents parts of the Bronx and Westchester County, filings with Federal Election Commission show.
Engel caused a stir Tuesday when, for the first time in 28 years, he abandoned his practice of standing on the aisle of the House to greet the president and shake his hand before Trumps speech to a joint session of Congress.
Trumbull First Selectman Tim Herbst, who is exploring a run for governor like Lumaj, said giving to Engel contradicts the conservative principles his rival has been espousing on the campaign trail.
This guy makes Michael Dukakis look like Ronald Reagan, Herbst said, comparing Engel to the former Massachusetts governor and 1988 Democratic presidential nominee.
Lumaj said his conservative credentials are rock solid and that he has given $28,510 to Republicans candidates and just $2,000 to Democrats.
Eliot Engel is a personal friend of my family and personal friend of mine, said Lumaj. I do disagree with Eliot Engel on policy on everything.
A former Bronx resident whose law firm is located in the borough, though outside Engels district, Lumaj was the 2014 Republican nominee for secretary of the state. In 2012, the Albanian-born immigration lawyer briefly ran for U.S. Senate. He has raised more than $127,000 for a potential bid for the states highest office, more than any other Republican.
I think its way too early for anyone to start attacking each other as Republicans, Lumaj said. I believe in the 11th Commandment from Ronald Reagan, that we shouldnt start attacking each other.
Lumaj is hardly the first Republican to show up on a donor list of the opposition. In the not so distant past, Trump was generous to Democrats, and his Small Business administrator, Linda McMahon, gave $5,000 to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee in 2007. The following year, McMahon contributed $2,300 to Illinois Democrat Rahm Emanuel, the former DCCC chairman who would become chief of staff for President Barack Obama and now serves as mayor of Chicago.
Still, I dont think they supported anyone as left wing as this guy, Herbst said. This guy is off his rocker, big league.
In 2014, Lumaj contributed $60 to Herbsts unsuccessful campaign for state treasurer. Herbst gave $100 to Lumaj for his campaign for secretary of the state.
Herbst said Lumaj was sending mixed messages to Republicans.
The Pennsylvania Legislature is among the nations most prolific procrastinators.
I wrote last week about their dishonest approach to the state budget building in revenue estimates that have no basis in reality. And worse yet, continuing to shrug off their responsibility to fix the ever-worsening state pension funding, which is now estimated to be $65 billion to $70 billion underfunded.
Lawmakers have been aware of the issue for 20 years or more and have only made it worse by sweetening their own pension plan as recently as the early 2000s.
But I digress ...
Legislative dereliction is also evident in the Real ID Act compliance.
In short, the federal government passed legislation in 2005, and has since modified it, to compel states to create a new, more secure, drivers license.
In the name of enhanced security at the borders, airports, and federal facilities, the feds want all states to develop a more secure license that is less susceptible to counterfeiting and fraud. Similarly, the credit card companies have moved from magnetic strips to chip cards.
Many frequent travelers have a U.S. issued passport that serves the Real ID purpose, but for most Americans the cost and wait time for a passport that may never be used for travel outside the U.S. is simply impractical.
It is not as if the feds gave states a short window to act. From the time of passage to the first implementation dates, the Department of Homeland Security provided six years notice.
Only 12 of the 50 states were in compliance with interstate sharing of their ID database as of January 2017. Another 14 states were in compliance with DHS criteria, but not the Real ID database.
Pennsylvania is among another 25 states and U.S. territories to be granted yet another extension, to mid-2018. Perhaps our state legislators find comfort that five states Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana and Washington have done even less than the Keystone state.
Excuses run the usual gamut, including cost, overreach/big brother, forcing states to do the feds work etc. ...
But lets get real. With a legislative majority party whose candidate ran on the ideas of a border wall, a travel ban for majority Muslim countries, and a huge spike in funding for the military and DHS, making an issue of the enhanced license is hypocritical.
Voters are correct to assume that what matters most to the Pennsylvania Legislature is getting re-elected and collecting a sweet pension.
MILFORD - Computer access is required to register your child for kindergarten, school officials say.
Families who do not have access to a computer are welcome to use the computers at the Milford Public Library, said a statement released Friday by the school district.
This is our third year of doing it this way, said district spokeswoman Kathryn Bonetti. But there are a couple options besides the library, parents can come in here to the central office (in the Parsons Government Center) and well help you. Or, you can go directly to the school where the child will be attending.
But, in all cases, the child will have to be registered on-line, she said.
Kindergarten registration will open on Thursday, March 15, 2017 for children entering the Milford Public Schools this fall. Children who are 5 years old on or before Dec. 31, 2017 can enroll in kindergarten for the 2017-18 school year.
The registration process requires the completion of a registration packet and reserving a final registration appointment that occurs at the school. Both of these functions are completed exclusively online.
Parents are being asked to access the registration link that will appear on the districts website home page (http://www.milforded.org/) and then enter the required information to begin the process. It is important for parents to read the instructions first before they begin their online registration. It will take 30 minutes to complete the online registration materials.
Upon completion of the registration packet, the parent is then automatically directed to an online scheduling system where they will reserve their registration appointment for the school visit.
At the school registration appointment, parents will meet with staff to complete the validation process while their children visit with a selection of teachers, school nurses, and other professionals. These short visits with your child will give school officials the chance to meet the new students while ensuring any services that might be needed are in place when the school year begins. Parents can expect the appointment to last approximately 20 minutes.
In order to register your child, parents will need the following documentation, officials say. The actual documents must be presented to school staff at the time of the school visit.
A certified copy of the child's birth certificate (with raised seal)
For homeowners: mortgage or deed or tax bill for the residence
For renters: lease or rental agreement signed by the landlord and including the landlord's contact phone number
Two recent utility bills in the same name to the same address (landline phone, water, electric, gas, oil or cable tv)
A copy of the students latest physical exam and immunization record
Additional questions can be directed to the school.
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BRIDGEPORT - Downtown merchants have long-wanted modern parking meters that offered visitors the convenience of paying with credit or debit cards, not just rolls of quarters.
Critics say they wound up with dozens of overly aggressive RoboCops quick to levy $40 parking violations through the mail that eclipse what many more thriving Connecticut cities charge, threatening business.
Were not ready for this kind of downtown yet, said Chef Pierre Desruisseaux of Metric Bar and Grill. We have no business. We dont attract people. And now we put meters to drive more away.
Kelvin Ayala, owner of Moes Burger Joint, agreed.
To go to this level of enforcement is overkill, Ayala said. Sales have gone down. People are afraid to park at the meters. They dont understand them.
Rowena White, Mayor Joe Ganims communications chief, said the city is open to adjusting the new parking enforcement system.
Were definitely listening to everything and paying attention, she said.
For now, White said, City Hall is focused on trying to better publicize the new meters online and through social media and break habits related to the antiquated ones that were policed by humans.
More Information For more information about Bridgeport's new parking meters, visit http://www.bridgeportct.gov/trending/?FeedID=2500 See More Collapse
White admitted she almost got a ticket when she pulled over to the curb quickly to answer her cell phone and wound up next to a meter. Installed this winter, the high-tech meters with their mounted cameras will automatically issue a violation if a payment is not made within a five minute grace period.
It does blink to give you a warning. Youre in the parking space. What are you going to do? White said. Its an education process.
But the fact is the new meters were also launched without a promised convenience of a mobile phone application that will remind drivers when their time is about to expire, and allow them to purchase more minutes. That app is coming, the city said.
Sauda Baraka, a member of the school board, said she was mailed a $40 ticket after driving her granddaughter downtown to a new art supply store. She said New Havens meters have a phone application, and wondered why Bridgeports do not.
It just seems like its a gotcha, Baraka said.
White said the meters, in operatoin Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a two hour limit and extended times around the court houses - are intended to help businesses so that people can come and go.
If Im a restaurant owner and three people are parked in front of my store or restaurant for hours on end, how many customers am I losing? White said. Theres no gotcha moment here. Thats not the intent at all.
Fidele Hernaiz, an employee at Jimmys, witnessed a woman who pulled up in front of the clothing store, then sat in her car for an hour.
Never got out and put a quarter in, he said. She probably doesnt know she got a ticket, but she got one.
Hernaiz and others said the city was not as tough enforcing the old change meters, so people just assume they can park for free.
People (were) leaving cars in one space all day, said developer Phil Kuchma. Thats not good for the businesses. People here longer term should be parking in a garage or lot.
We started reminding our customers and giving them a quarter to put in the meter, Hernaiz said of the new technology. People just have to get used to it.
Though meter proponents emphasize convenience and a better-organized downtown, there is also no question that this cash-strapped city is happy to rake in the meter money. For example, if a car pulls away before the meter time has expired, that extra time, though paid for, is canceled out and is not inherited by the next lucky driver. The opposite is the case with coin-operated meters.
And Bridgeport also has revenue-sharing agreements with the meter installer, MPS, which provided the equipment for free, and, to a lesser extent, with parking system manager LAZ.
Once the revenues - meter payments and $40 tickets - reach a guaranteed $97,000 per month, MPS, according to the agreement, will reap 100 percent of the meter profits for four months. After that the city receives 15 percent of the revenues and MPS 85 percent until that $97,000 in profits grows to $267,000 a month, or $3.2 million annually.
At that point Bridgeport will keep 80 percent of the revenues and MPS 20 percent.
Barbara Germaks work requires the occasional visit to downtown Bridgeport from her job in Trumbull to meet with interns and volunteers. She was mailed a $40 ticket, she believes, because she sat in her car for a few minutes doing some paperwork beyond the half hour she bought on the meter. Germak said she had not realized she had over-stayed her time, and also had not known about the automatic enforcement.
I must have been there 40 minutes as opposed to 30 minutes, Germak said. Innocent or guilty, the fact is it ($40) is a very steep fee for most people to pay today. Germak wrote Ganim, warning him that shoppers will not view Bridgeport as a friendly and happy place and continue to do business there.
Hartford fines drivers $45 for not feeding the meter at all, and $25 if the meter expires. But New Haven, Danbury and Waterbury charge $20 for parking meter violations, and Norwalk and Stamford charge $25, according to their parking enforcement departments.
Thats a problem, said Ayala. That ($40) fine needs to be reduced.
The fine was set by the City Council. White argued it was in line with the increase of the standard rate of living and subject to a public hearing.
No complaint or objection was raised, she said. So it was passed by the City Council.
Recently two council members - Scott Burns and Kathryn Bukovsky - met with city officials and urged them to do more to inform the public about the new downtown parking meters and how to use them.
Theres definitely concerns about people not knowing how it works, said Burns.
Asked if the city should have at least held off on implementing the meters until the mobile phone application was available, Burns said, That was their call.
But Burns said perhaps a longer grace period - eight to ten minutes - might be a little more consumer friendly.
Michael Mickey Herbert, the new head of the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, said he has not fielded complaints from member businesses about the meters. But, Herbert emphasized, if the new technology is a problem, he wants to hear about it.
I would suggest it probably is growing pains, Herbert said. But, by golly, if I hadnt been downtown a long time and came down and got a $40 ticket from some robot meter, I might never want to come back. ... There ought to be a full scale effort to make sure visitors know how this works. We are trying to promote downtown businesses and do the best we can for them.
BRIDGEPORTThe pimp who allegedly tattooed his nickname on an abducted prostitute pleaded guilty to human trafficking Friday.
Brandon 14K Williams, 35, of Bridgeport, faces a possible life sentence for admittedly coercing the woman into prostitution, according to court documents from the hearing in a federal court in Hartford.
The minor victims sexual services were advertised on the internet websites Backpage and Cityvibe, said Tom Carson, spokesman of the office of Connecticut District Attorney Deirdre Daly, in a statement. He rented hotel rooms in which he and the minor victim stayed.
Williams faces a minimum of 10 years in jail with five years of supervised release and will have to register as a sex offender. Initial allegations from police included kidnapping the victim, forcing her to consume heroin, and tattooing her forehead with 14K and a dollar sign.
Williams allegedly had an associate, Jason Boots Prawl, 28, who face similar charges. He allegedly trafficked the same victim as Williams, plus another minor, known only as MV2 in his indictment. He pleaded not guilty on Oct. 27, 2016, according to court records.
Prawls trial is scheduled to start on July 13, according to court documents.
Both cases are being presided over by Judge Michael Shea, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarala Nagala and David Novick, and investigated by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the Bridgeport PD.
The Prawls case also involved the Milford PD and Connecticut State Police.
BRIDGEPORT - All the Finkenaur family said they wanted was an admission of guilt.
Henry Russell was not a bad guy. Back in the states after spending years in the United Kingdom Russell claimed he instinctively was driving on the left side of the road when he crashed head on into 91-year-old Allen Finkenaur and his 91-year-old wife, Virginia, in Trumbull two days before Christmas, killing them.
We miss our mom and dad very much, one of the Finkenaurs three daughters, Claudia Allen, tearfully said following Russells guilty plea in the case Friday.
It was enough to hear him plead guilty, thats what we wanted, Allen said.
Dressed in a tailored grey suit with Harry Potter-style glasses, the 28-year-old Russell pleaded guilty before Superior Court Judge Kevin Doyle to two counts of negligent homicide with a motor vehicle.
Assistant States Attorney Tatiana Messina told the judge that under a plea bargain Russell will receive a suspended sentence with two years of conditional discharge, a type of probation when he is sentenced June 2.
Russell, who works in finance and is now living in Japan, is also going to be required to do community service.
Its a very dreadful situation, said Russells lawyer, Eugene Riccio, as he and his client left the Golden Hill Street courtroom.
Minutes later they were served with a $6 million federal wrongful death lawsuit by the Finkenaurs lawyer, William Bloss, of Koskoff, Koskoff and Bieder.
Shortly after noon on Dec. 22, 2015, police were dispatched to a crash on White Plains Road near Cedarcrest Road.
The Finkenaurs had been driving northbound on White Plains Road when police said they were hit head on by Russell.
Police said a witness told them he saw Russell driving the wrong way and tried to warn him but to no avail.
The elderly couple were taken to St. Vincents Hospital where Allen Finkenaur died on Christmas day from his injuries. His wife died 14 days later.
Russell was treated for facial injuries and released from the hospital.
He had recently moved from the United Kingdom and is accustomed to driving on the left side of the roadway, police said Russell told them.
As a startup founder, one of the most important roles you have is hiring and retaining the very best employees out there. But competition among startups is steep for top talent, so what can you do to stand out from the rest?
Related: 10 Examples of Companies With Fantastic Cultures
The answer: Have a positive company culture that makes smart people want to be part of your team; and offer good benefits and perks. All these factors differ from one other but are equally important for recruiting and retaining top talent. The details:
Building a culture vs. offering perks
When you begin building out your startup team, you should be thinking long and hard about the type of culture you want to establish. Every employee you hire should fit this culture, from your first employee to your hundred-thousandth (hey, dream big!).
What's important here is that the culture you establish be different from the perks and benefits you offer as part of a compensation package. Benefits include things like vacation days, 401K matching and health insurance. Perks might include catered lunches, free snacks complimentary laundry service and a free Uber home if an employee stays late.
Benefits and perks are great for recruiting purposes, but your company culture is how you retain happy employees. So, how, exactly, do you do that?
What is company culture?
Company culture is how your employees collectively define research and development, customer service and human resources. Culture is usually driven by a companys list of core values set by the founder or founding team. For example, Zappos lists ten core values that each employee must be able to get behind to be a good cultural fit:
Deliver WOW through service
Embrace and drive change
Create fun and a little weirdness
Be adventurous, creative and open-minded
Pursue growth and learning
Build open and honest relationships with communication
Build a positive team and family spirit
Do more with less
Be passionate and determined
Be humble
"Culture" outlines whats expected of employees when it comes to innovation, customer service and human resources. Yet, while some companies offer great perks, theirs is a negative company culture.
For instance, you may work for a company that offers six weeks' paid vacation, full health insurance coverage, 401K matching and free lunches. But if your boss expects you to work 60 hours a week and you have no flexibility with scheduling, then youre probably not very motivated because youre in a negative corporate culture that doesnt value the benefits of work/life balance.
Tony Hsieh, founder of Zappos, has said that culture is the most important aspect of running a successful business. Our number one priority is company culture," Hsieh said. "Our whole belief is that if you get the culture right, most of the other stuff like delivering great customer service or building a long-term enduring brand will just happen naturally on its own."
In fact, Zappos actually pays its employees to quit if they are not happy in their work environment.
Related: The 153 Best Company Cultures in America (and What You Can Learn From Them)
The right culture improves productivity.
Why in the world would Zappos pay employees to quit if theyre unhappy? Because at least one study has shown that happy employees are 12 percent more productive at work. According to the study researchers at the University of Warwick, We find that human happiness has large and positive causal effects on productivity. Positive emotions appear to invigorate human beings.
The study also showed that financial incentives, such as a raise or bonus, weren't enough to make the employees who were studied, happier. No matter how much an overworked employee makes, he or she will still be less happy and less productive than one who works in a culture that values work/life balance and positivity.
Fostering a great company culture not only improves employee productivity, it also improves the bottom line. When Johnson & Johnson made a commitment to improving its employees' health, according to the Harvard Business Review, the company saw $250 million in savings. From 2002 to 2008, it saw a $2.71 return for every dollar spend on health and wellness.
On top of that, happy and productive employees at J&J were less likely to quit, and that resulted in low turnover and reduced employee-acquisition costs.
This makes a lot of sense, as study after study has shown that overworked employees are often dealing with impaired sleep, increased stress, higher rates of Type 2 diabetes and an increased likelihood of heart disease. These health concerns lead to absenteeism (sick days), high turnover rate (quitting) and rising health insurance costs. And these things negatively impact a companys bottom line.
On top of that, impaired sleep coupled with higher stress leads to decreased efficiency and an increased potential for employees to make costly mistakes on a daily basis.
A happy culture leads to better profits.
The concept of a positive company culture leading to more profitability isnt new. It actually started in the early 1900s, back when it was common for factory employees to spend nine to 10 hours per day at work for minimal pay.
However, things changed in 1914; and auto magnate Henry Ford was the prime mover. After spending years doing in-house research on his workers and their productivity, Ford took the unprecendented step of doubling his workers' pay, and reducing the number of hours that they had to spend in Ford plants.
Initially, Ford was bitterly criticized for this move, but over the next five years, he witnessed his competitors adopting the same model after they'd seen his production soar. It was at this time that many companies saw that, If you wanted to keep your workers bright, healthy, productive, safe and efficient over a sustained stretch of time, you kept them to no more than 40 hours a week and eight hours a day.
By reducing hours, companies saw a decrease in worker disability, as well as fewer instances of damaged equipment, fewer lawsuits and happier shareholders.
Creating your own culture
Hopefully, you can see the importance of a positive corporate culture. And, getting started is as simple as writing out your core beliefs about how innovation, customer service and work/life balance should be approached by your employees regardless of seniority or role.
Related: How These 8 Founders Are Innovating Company Culture
Nailing down your core values will shape the future of your company. So, give this task some serious thought.
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Many Connecticut residents know the feeling of a back sprain: It starts with a cramp or stiffness or pain in the lower back and can last weeks, or even months. A recent data analysis shows that patients with back pains are a more common sight in doctors offices in Connecticut than in the rest of the country.
The healthcare startup Amino found that cuts and bruises are the most common ways Americans hurt themselves, but Connecticut residents suffer more frequently from sprained backs, concussions, sprained hips, and knee injuries than other Americans.
Sprained backs are about 1.6 times more common in Connecticut than in the rest of the country, Amino researcher Sohan Murthy said.
He looked at data from 1.3 million Connecticut patients and found that about a third of patients who went to the doctor for sprained backs in the last five years were treated by orthopedic surgeons. The rest saw a mix of primary care physicians and emergency room doctors. An undetermined number of people could have just skipped the doctors office.
Unfortunately, we can't figure out what proportion of patients sought treatment for these injuries, as we're only looking at patients who already went to the doctor, Murthy said. We can't see patients who got hurt but didn't go to the doctor.
Some states have an abnormally high number of odd injuries, Murthy found. You are more likely to be struck by an object in Indiana than anywhere else in the country, for example, while people from Texas get bad insect bites more frequently than Americans from any other state. Suffocation is the injury most unique to six Western states.
The team cant say for sure why some injuries happen more frequently in certain parts of the country than in others. But some doctors have noticed that Connecticut has the distinction of being a state of weekend warriors.
Spine surgeon Rudolph Taddonio, the interim chair of the department of orthopedic surgery at Stamford Hospital, said patients with sprained backs tend to be sedentary workers who overexert themselves at the end of the week.
In our state, in particular in Fairfield County, we have a lot of hospitals, businesses, insurance companies and big offices where people spend their time sitting. Then they exert themselves for one or two days on the weekend. They do so above and beyond the capacity of what their backs can handle and get a strain, Taddonio explained.
Poor sitting posture further deteriorates core muscles, making people more susceptible to injuries, he said. Taddonio recommends having an exercise program, even on weekdays.
It takes a little bit of time, he said. But thats the best way to prevent an injury to your back.
Last year, a coffee shop was sued over the amount of cream used in its cafe latte. The fact that someone would sue because of the lack of creamy goodness had many observers steamed.
Our civil justice system was designed as a last resort for parties to settle disagreements. But do you think our courts should be clogged with lawsuits because someone is in a froth over the amount of cream used in a latte? Well neither does the Pennsylvania Coalition for Civil Justice Reform (PCCJR), a group recently formed to address imbalances in our states civil justice system.
Highly publicized lawsuits around the country like the latte example may raise eyebrows, but day-to-day court actions here in Pennsylvania harm job creators, doctors, and hospitals in ways that also hurt local citizens pocketbooks and patients access to healthcare.
There is great cause for concern about the Pennsylvania civil justice system. Weve read news reports on scandal and resignations in our state Supreme Court, about the disbarring of a recent state attorney general and a pay-to-play type scheme of shunting state legal work to campaign contributors. On one court docket in Philadelphia, nearly half of the plaintiffs are out-of-state litigation tourists. Recently, the American Tort Reform Association put Pennsylvania on its Judicial Hellholes Watch List, citing an unfair legal climate in the Philadelphia and Allegheny County courts. The organization also describes how certain Pennsylvania court rulings create excessive uncertainty for litigants.
The U.S. Chambers Institute for Legal Reform ranks Pennsylvanias civil court system 37th in the nation, indicating that the legal liability climates of most other states are more favorable to economic growth. Pennsylvanias poor standing compared to its competitor states is estimated to reduce employment by 1.53 percent.
The United States has the worlds costliest legal system, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. As a percentage of our economy, legal liability costs are double and triple those of the United Kingdom, France and Japan. Money spent on legal liability is money that wont be spent to hire new employees, develop new products, and grow our economy.
The PCCJR was created to lift Pennsylvania out of the liability doldrums by bringing fairness to the courts and civil laws and restoring competitiveness to Pennsylvanias economy. PCCJR will also work to educate Pennsylvania residents and their elected representatives about the negative effects of a lawsuit system out-of-balance, as well as promote common-sense policies that bring needed reform while ensuring meaningful redress for those injured.
After all, when courts are tied up with merit-less latte lawsuits, justice is delayed for the truly deserving. At the same time, we seek to protect citizens, employers and health care providers from harmful legislation that will only benefit the lawyers at the expense of jobs and access to health care.
Our state civil court system must become a strong example of our commitment to fairness and justice. We have a long way to go and much work to do to meet this goal. PCCJR is fully committed to taking on this challenge with the support of many groups and individuals across Pennsylvania. We hope you can join us as well.
Curt Schroder is executive director of the Pennsylvania Coalition for Civil Justice Reform, a not-for-profit and nonpartisan organization based in Harrisburg. Schroder served 17 years in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
From loans to real estate to insurance -- having a solid credit score can make or break your business. If your businesss score is on the lower end of the spectrum, youll likely run into a number of obstacles when looking for funding or applying for a loan.
Today, your credit score is a representation of your companys financial strength. Think about it: Would an investor trust you with $100,000 if you have a bad financial history? Probably not.
Related: 4 Steps to Establishing a Good Business Credit Score
And when it comes to small businesses, both your business and personal credit scores can come into play -- impacting your businesss ability to get financing. It's important to note, however, that the two types of scores are not calculated in the same ways. Unlike the personal credit spectrum of 850 points, business credit scores are much smaller, typically ranging from 0 to 100 -- scores at 45 and above are considered low- to medium-risk businesses.
Of course, factors such as timeliness, number of credit lines and consistency impact a score, but there are also more obscure factors such as location and even local policy climate that can influence a credit score.
So if youve only been focusing on your personal credit score, it might be time to start checking in on your business score. Nav.com, a site that gives business owners access to their credit scores, examined data from 15,500 of its small-business customers to uncover the top 10 states in the U.S. with the highest and lowest business credit scores.
Related: How Your Personal Credit Score Can Impact Your Business
Besides Alabama, it looks like most southeastern states have some work to do when it comes to their business credit scores. In addition, a number of midwestern states have a long way to go -- maybe they should take it from their neighbor Iowa, which scored number three on the list.
Here are the five states with the highest business credit scores, according to Nav:
Vermont (52) Nevada (49) Iowa (49) Alabama (47) Utah (46)
Image Credit: Nav.com
Here are the five states with the lowest business credit scores, according to Nav:
Nebraska (34) Montana (37) West Virginia (38) South Dakota (39) Kansas (40)
Image Credit: Nav.com
Check out the map below of average personal credit scores per state.
Image Credit: Nav.com
Related:
The States With the Best and Worst Business Credit Scores
How Your Personal Credit Score Can Impact Your Business
Books That Inspire Me - Ranjit Punja
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WILTON Police have released video footage and further details of the suspect involved in a bank robbery in Wilton.
According to Lt. Rob Cipolla, police have learned that a man who fits the description of the suspect involved in the Feb. 24 robbery of a Fairfield County Bank near the Georgetown-Wilton border was also involved in an attempted robbery in Southport.
On Feb. 22, around 4 p.m., a 5-foot-10-inch white male who is believed to be in his twenties approached the main door of the Peoples United Bank on Old Post Road in Southport, which was locked. The male yelled to an employee who had just locked the door and the employee told him that they were closed.
The male, who was wearing a mask with gloves and carrying a duffle bag, fled the scene southbound in a green, four-door 1997 Honda Accord, with a Connecticut Registration of 477 ZVD, which matched the registration on the getaway vehicle involved in the Wilton robbery.
Further investigation revealed that the Honda was purchased in Stratford on Feb. 21 for $380 on the Internet site Letgo. An interview with the seller of the Honda revealed that the person who purchased the vehicle is an African-American male in his 20s with a thin build and braids in his hair, police said.
A Stamford address was written on the bill of sale for the Honda, police said.
This individual arrived to purchase the getaway vehicle in a newer model Nissan Maxima, which was black with tinted windows. During the sale, one of the buyers allegedly texted the former owner, stating that he was coming from Wilton and had a young son whose grandmother was supposedly asked to watch him on Feb. 21 around 6 p.m.
After the Wilton robbery, the Honda was recovered a short distance away from the bank.
There is a reward for information that helps to identify the individuals who are responsible for these robberies. Anyone with information can contact Wilton Detective Kip Tarrant at Kip.Tarrant@wiltonct.org or 203-834-6260, or Fairfield Detective Bernie Kelley at bkelley@fairfieldct.org or 203 254-4840. All callers may remain anonymous.
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The Salt Lake TribuneMarch 1, 2017Complex ties Anti-bigamy proposal sponsor says polygamists hijacked his Mormon faith; advocate of plural marriage says the church is behind the bill.About 51 weeks ago, polygamists and their supporters picketed in the Utah Capitol's Rotunda.They were protesting a bill meant to curb polygamy, but it wasn't just the measure's sponsor who drew their ire. Some signs were directed at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which abandoned polygamy in the late 19th century as a condition of Utah statehood and which excommunicates members found practicing it. The protesters suspected the LDS Church had lobbied for the bill.This year, there is another bill meant to curb polygamy, but it hasn't been polygamists who have been publicly discussing the LDS Church. It has been the bill's sponsor, Rep. Mike Noel, R-Kanab, who is a member of the LDS Church. As the 2017 Utah legislative session has progressed, he has increased his criticism of polygamists, especially those who call themselves fundamentalist Mormons."They've hijacked my religion and I actually resent that," Noel told The Associated Press on Feb. 10 as polygamists were marching toward the Capitol in another protest.Then, on Thursday, Noel gave a speech on the House floor in support of his HB99. He called polygamous sects "organized crime" and complained that the public confuses polygamous groups such as the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints with his church."The fact that individuals come up there and testify they are FLDS Mormons insults me and bothers me," Noel said, raising his voice. "They are an apostate group and they are no part of my religion." HB99 passed 48-25. It is waiting for action in the Utah Senate. It is not scheduled for a hearing, and it is unclear whether the Senate will consider it before the Legislature adjourns March 9.LDS Church spokesman Eric Hawkins said Tuesday in an email that the Salt Lake City-based faith has not lobbied for the bill.Asked to state the church's position on it, Hawkins wrote: "The practice of polygamy remains strictly prohibited in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When it comes to laws governing polygamy, the church's primary interest is in looking after potential victims of such associations."The church is concerned that reducing the perceived seriousness of this criminal activity sends the message that such abuses are not serious criminal offenses."LDS Church support for keeping polygamy a felony motivated polygamists at the 2016 protest. One sign depicted two missionaries from the LDS Church peeking inside the bedroom of a man and woman under the covers. The sign read, "Mormon Bedroom Police."That 2016 bill died in the same place the 2017 bill is currently lodged it failed to get a hearing or a vote in the Utah Senate.Joe Darger, who has three wives, has led the opposition to bigamy bills in 2016 and this year. He said Noel's opinions of fundamentalist Mormons typically defined as people who adhere to the practices taught by LDS Church Presidents Joseph Smith and Brigham Young are hardly unique among legislators."When I use the term 'plural Mormon families,' " Darger said, "I watch their faces all twitter."Darger said Noel's statements strengthen polygamists' arguments that the Legislature is crafting a law aimed at one group. Polygamists have called that unconstitutional.Amos Guiora, a University of Utah law professor who has published research showing polygamy is harmful to women and children, said Friday that Noel's statements are unlikely to cause any legal consequences. It is unlikely polygamists will be able to effectively use what Noel said as evidence in any lawsuit challenging the polygamy bill, Guiora said, because it is within the Legislature's purview to establish crimes and punishments."That strikes me not as targeting a particular group," Guiora said, "but protecting the vulnerable, which is exactly what a legislature should be doing."This year's bill adds criteria for being prosecuted for bigamy: The offender must live with the extra spouse and "purport" to be married. Current state law requires only one or the other. HB99 would keep the offense a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison, but those penalties could increase to one to 15 years if bigamy is prosecuted in conjunction with crimes such as abuse, fraud or human smuggling. Anyone leaving a polygamous marriage and reporting abuse or protecting a child would receive amnesty.Noel has done more than air theological disagreements. His district includes parts of Washington County, home of the FLDS, and he has said he was encouraged to sponsor his bill when he heard stories of abuse from former members of that and other polygamous churches.Debates over the bills last year and this year also have highlighted the complicated relationships between polygamy and the LDS Church. Noel has discussed how two of his great-grandfathers served time in jail for polygamy. Other legislators have discussed their own family history with polygamy.Polygamous groups that consider themselves fundamentalist Mormons worship from similar texts as the LDS Church. Used hymnals from LDS wards have found their way to polygamous congregations.LDS charities have helped people fleeing polygamous households. Many people from polygamous families choose to get baptized in the LDS Church, including two of Darger's children.Darger said Noel's statements show how the LDS Church should engage in a dialogue with lawmakers and polygamists about the proper way to address polygamy."It's clear the LDS Church is a stakeholder in this," Darger said, "whether it wants to be or not."ncarlisle@sltrib.comTwitter: @natecarlisle
Members of Faith Tabernacle, a faith-healing sect.
By Barbara MillerPenn LiveMarch 2, 2017A grandfather who is also a minister is charged with failing to report the death of his granddaughter, whose parents didn't seek medical treatment for her due to their faith.Rowland George Foster, 71, of the 400 block of North Ninth Street, Lebanon, is charged with failing to report child abuse, a third degree felony, court records say.Foster, police said, "had reasonable cause to suspect that the victim died due to a failure to obtain adequate medical care."Jonathan and Grace Foster of Upper Tulpehocken Township, Berks County, were charged with involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment in the Nov. 8 pneumonia death of their daughter, Ella Grace, age 2.The Fosters, members of Mechanicsburg-based Faith Tabernacle church, attributed the toddler's death to "God's will," according to charges filed in the case.The Fosters told police their church does not believe in any medical treatment whatsoever, charging documents state.Rowland Foster is pastor of Faith Tabernacle's Harrisburg district, which includes Lebanon, Mechanicsburg, Shippensburg and Schuylkill Haven, and is also Ella Foster's grandfather.Rowland Foster told police he received a call from Grace Foster the evening of Nov. 7, after arriving home from a meeting of church elders in Philadelphia. She asked him to come to their home to anoint the child, which is performed in their faith when someone is ill.Foster said he knew the child had a cold, since she hadn't been at church the previous Sunday.The day after the anointing, Foster said he again visited the child, and found her in the same condition as the night before, which he described as "resting peacefully."As he left, he said Jonathan Foster was holding the girl in his arms, and that she "appeared peaceful and that there was no detection of anything out of the ordinary."Afterward, he said he got a call from Jonathan Foster telling him the child had died. Foster said he went back to the home to be with the family.Foster told authorities he saw Ella between 11 and 11:45 a.m. on the day she died, and recalled she was "not talking much during the morning, and that she sounded sick."The Berks County coroner said the child died between 3:20 and 3:24 p.m.As a minister, Foster was a mandated reporter, and is required to report child abuse, police said, which can include failing to provide a child with adequate medical care, police said.After arriving back at the home and seeing the child's body, police said he failed to report the child had died due to medical neglect.Foster was released on his own recognizance and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 8.http://www.pennlive.com/news/2017/03/minister_and_grandfather_of_2-.html
In a ruling handed down by the Supreme Court of Missouri on Tuesday, the cases against David G. DePriest and his sister Natalie DePriest have been returned to the St. Francois County Circuit Court for further proceedings after the court vacated the sentences imposed by now-retired Circuit Judge Kenneth W. Pratte in November 2013.
Both defendants, who lived in Farmington at the time of their arrest, had been sentenced to serve 15 years in the Department of Corrections without the possibility of probation for producing a controlled substance by cultivating more than five grams of marijuana (count one) and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute (count two). In addition, David was given an additional seven years in prison for a charge of unlawfully possessing a weapon.
The DePriests were charged and sentenced in connection with an alleged marijuana growing operation in their Farmington apartment and were represented by the same attorney, Dan Viets who was chairman of Show Me Cannabis and the state coordinator for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws throughout the proceedings. They had pleaded guilty to the charges in August 2013 on their counsels recommendation. The DePriests entered their pleas during a group plea with several other defendants charged in unrelated cases.
While they were sentenced separately, Viets had asked the judge to place both individuals on probation. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Pat King had requested that the judge impose the maximum sentence with no possibility of probation.
After being sentenced, both DePriests filed motions seeking post-conviction relief. Natalies motion alleged ineffective assistance of counsel because Viets continued to represent both her and David even after it became clear during plea negotiations that there was a conflict of interest between them and that the conflict negatively affected Viets performance on her behalf.
Davids motion also alleged a conflict of interest through Viets continued representation of both defendants and that the prosecution exploited this conflict by making only joint plea offers, which forced David to act against his own best interests.
The circuit court overruled both motions without any kind of hearing.
The DePriests subsequently appealed to the Missouri Court of Appeals for the Eastern District, which instructed the circuit court to set aside Davids guilty plea and for the prosecutor's office to offer him the original plea agreement.
The court sided with David regarding his allegation that Viets counsel was ineffective because of a conflict of interest in representing both David and his sister.
The opinion also stated that the trial court had been admonished on multiple occasions for using group pleas and that group pleas should be conducted "sparingly," if at all. While the use of group pleas has not been ruled unconstitutional, the Missouri Supreme Court has noted that the practice increases the risk that pleas are either unknowing or involuntary.
The appeals court also ruled that Natalies guilty plea was involuntary and thus, invalid. The court remanded the case to the trial court, stating the St. Francois County Prosecuting Attorney's office should reoffer her the original plea agreement. It stated Natalie should have an opportunity to decide whether to accept it with the advice of a competent and non-conflicted attorney.
The appeals court criticized now-retired Judge Pratte for not inquiring into the possible conflict of interest due to dual representation and differing culpabilities in the case.
Additional appeals filed by the state and the DePriests ended up in the Supreme Court of Missouri, which heard oral arguments on May 4, 2016 regarding the circuit courts overruling, without an evidentiary hearing, the DePriests motions for post-conviction relief in which they argued that Viets had an actual conflict of interest in representing them both during plea negotiations and at the group plea hearing during which they both pleaded guilty.
In its opinion, issued on Feb. 28, the Supreme Court stated that both of the DePriests' motions to the trial court set forth sufficient facts showing that their joint defense counsel acted under an actual (not merely theoretical) conflict of interest that adversely affected counsels representation of each defendant.
The court, recognizing that numerous facts and circumstances supported this conclusion, nevertheless chose to focus on just a few.
First, the opinion states, the motions allege that (Viets) acknowledged, almost from the beginning of the joint representation, that he believed the evidence of Davids guilt was strong but that the evidence of Natalies guilt was weak or non-existent. Despite this perceived asymmetry, the motions allege that the initial plea offers from the state tendered the same terms (at least with respect to the first two counts) to both defendants and that these offers were contingent upon acceptance by both defendants.
The motions further allege that defense counsel did not advise David to accept these initial offers, as David contends unconflicted counsel would have done. Instead, both motions allege that defense counsel advised David and Natalie, jointly, that neither should accept the terms because counsel believed the evidence against Natalie was far less compelling than the evidence against David.
The motions allege that the state exploited defense counsels conflict of interest by continuing to propose plea offers only on a both or neither basis and that defense counsel never sought to uncouple these offers until late in the negotiation process. Even then, the motions allege the state sought to leverage counsels conflict of interest by threatening to have defense counsel disqualified so the state could offer Natalie more favorable terms in exchange for testimony against David.
These allegations, together with the remainder of the allegations in the two motions, would if proved to and believed by the motion court in an evidentiary hearing be sufficient for the motion court to conclude that defense counsel had an actual conflict of interest and that this conflict adversely affected counsels representation of David and Natalie.
The ruling states that the state contends these allegations do not necessarily prove an actual conflict of interest and, even if they did, the conflict did not adversely affect counsels representation of either DePriest.
"The state argues that some of the allegations are not true or cannot be proven. But the question is not whether David or Natalie (or both) is entitled to relief but whether each of them is entitled to an evidentiary hearing and an opportunity to persuade the motion court that each is entitled to relief on this claim. At the hearing, the state is free to argue why it does not believe they are entitled to relief.
The Supreme Court also commented on the circuit courts failure to ask the DePriests about a possible conflict of interest regarding their dual representation by Viets.
It bears noting that, when David and Natalie appeared to plead guilty (and, later, to be sentenced), the trial court had an opportunity to inquire as to whether an actual conflict of interest had arisen and whether any such conflict had adversely affected counsels representation of one or the other (or both) of the defendants. The trial court never conducted such an inquiry, however, and the DePriests only remedy now is to raise a claim of ineffective assistance of counsel
The courts opinion raised the possibility that trial courts' use of group pleadings may have been the cause of the failure to inquire about conflict of interest and advised against such practices.
group pleas are fraught with unnecessary risk and should be avoided. It cannot be known and does not matter whether the use of this discredited practice is to blame for the trial courts failure to react to the obvious possibility that an actual conflict of interest existed between David and Natalie and that this conflict might have adversely affected defense counsels ability to represent either of them (let alone both of them) adequately. The possibility that the group plea procedure contributed to the trial courts failure to inquire into and make findings about these issues on the record, however, should be added to the long and growing list of reasons why this practice should be consigned to judicial history.
Concluding its opinion, the Supreme Court ruled that the circuit court erred in overruling the DePriests' motions without an evidentiary hearing, vacated the judgments of that court and sent the cases back to the circuit court for further proceedings that are consistent with the Supreme Courts opinion.
St. Francois County Prosecuting Attorney Jerrod Mahurin did not want to comment on court's ruling since the case is again being prosecuted by his office.
We must rethink the U.S. response to infectious disease. Here's why.
A number of businesses, schools and other organizations are reaching out to the citizens in Perryville following the Feb. 28 tornado.
Among those businesses is Auto Plaza Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Farmington.
On Thursday, the store posted a photo on social media asking the community to help Stuff the Truck with items for those affected by the storm.
Its to help the families in Perryville, said Heather Zeleny, service manager at the dealership. (The tornado) hit half a mile from my parents' home. Some of their really good friends were hit hard. (Perryville) is a close enough community to us that we want to help.
Among the items the dealership is collecting are basics such as bottled water, non-perishable snacks and canned goods, toiletries, laundry detergent, new pillows and blankets, trash bags, gloves, buckets, laundry baskets, and wipes.
Another essential item needed are plastic totes with lids.
They are using the totes for families to put their belongings in while going through the debris, she said.
Zeleny said they are also accepting donations of Walmart gift cards to be distributed.
The collection runs through 6 p.m. tonight at the dealership, located on 970 Woodlawn Drive. Zeleny said she plans to leave for Perryville about 10 a.m. on Saturday to deliver the donations.
This is not the first time the dealership reached out to a community following a devastating storm. A similar drive was held after the Joplin tornado in 2011.
Other groups are lending a hand in whatever way possible. Students from St. Paul Lutheran High School are traveling to Perryville to volunteer with the American Red Cross. Reporter Craig Vaughn is traveling with the group as well.
The Farmington Regional Chamber of Commerce launched Perryville Twister Relief to assist the numerous victims of the tornado.
The tragedy of the Perryville tornado can be felt throughout our community and it is our responsibility as friends and neighbors to assist those affected by this calamitous event, said Dick Womack, president/CEO of the Farmington Regional Chamber.
The chamber is asking area residents, businesses and organizations to purchase gift cards at local establishments. The cards can be brought to the chamber office, located at 302 N. Washington St. in Farmington and runs through March 10.
All gift cards collected will be delivered to the Perryville Chamber of Commerce for distribution to those affected by the tornado. The release states suggested gift cards include locations for food, lodging, personal items and daily needs. Cards of any value will be accepted and utilized.
It is a blessing to be able to help one another during this extreme time of need. We are honored to be of any assistance during the recovery period and will continue to support our community as needed, said Womack.
The chamber is also sharing other community efforts through their website and Facebook page.
Tickets are also on sale for a Tough as Diamonds raffle. According to the chamber, tickets will be available to win a prize package containing a $999 Steal Her Heart diamond necklace from Krekeler Jewelers in Farmington, $50 gift certificate from Mary Janes Burgers & Brew in Perryville, $75 gift certificate from 15 West in Perryville and a $75 gift certificate from 12 West in Farmington.
The cost for tickets is $5 each or six for $25. Tickets are available at the above donating retailers and through Marisa Zaricor (on Facebook or m_zaricor@att.net). The drawing will be held the weekend of March 18.
A live Facebook auction page kicks off today with the highest bidder winning a soft-side Hopper 40 Yeti cooler valued at $299.99 and containing several hundred dollars worth of additional Yeti merchandise. Items for the Facebook auction are donated by KREI/KTJJ and Gifford Lumber Company in Farmington.
Contact the Farmington Regional Chamber at 573-756-3615 or email at laura@farmingtonregionalchamber.com for further information.
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A humiliating put-down delivered to me by a Cambridge professor in my 1970s student days has stuck in my mind and rankled, on and off, ever since.
Id gone to a seminar run by the achingly trendy don in question, who was a pin-up of the Cambridge Left.
Think of Howard Kirk in Malcolm Bradburys savage satire on academic Lefties, The History Man, and youll be on the right lines.
We were discussing A Theory Of Justice, a new book (1971) by philosopher John Rawls, when the right-on professor invited us to imagine we were in a hot-air balloon, heading off to found a new society.
Tom Utley, a former Cambridge student in the 1970s, had lecturers with mixed political views, but if a study this week is anything to go by many of today's have Left leanings
The twist was that we would be shrouded in Rawlss veil of ignorance, meaning we couldnt know whether we were male or female, black or white, straight or gay, young or old, able-bodied or disabled. Wed find out only when we landed.
So what rules would we establish, while we were still in the air, to govern our new society and ensure we would all be happy in our brave new world?
To vigorous nods of approval from the professor, one of my fellow students said he would outlaw slavery, since he would hate to discover he was a slave.
Another piped up that he would introduce a tax-code to ensure the equal distribution of wealth, while a female undergraduate said she would ban racial discrimination. The professor was again delighted. But then came my turn.
Anger
Though most of my fellow students were confirmed Left-wingers, I had a touch of Harry Enfields Tory Boy about me even then. So raising my hand, I suggested that in our ideal society, we should be able to keep as large a proportion of our earnings as possible.
This would give us an incentive to work hard, I said, which would increase the whole communitys prosperity. So perhaps we should cap taxes.
I further ventured that since it was a powerful human instinct to want the best for our children, shouldnt we also have laws letting us pass on our wealth, great or small, to our young?
Flashing me a look of naked anger, the pin-up professor uttered the put-down I remember verbatim to this day. Those are very stupid suggestions, he snapped. Youve entirely missed the point of this exercise. End of discussion.
Well, I can see I may fairly be accused of having missed his little games point, which was clearly to make us parrot Left-wing platitudes and conclude that the ideal society would be perfectly egalitarian.
Tom Utley admits he had a of touch of Harry Enfields Tory Boy (pictured) about him at university. A professor reacted with anger when he suggested that in an ideal society, people should be able to keep as large a proportion of their earnings as possible
But to this day, I plead not guilty to the charge of stupidity (on that occasion, at least). After all, if those in the balloon were flesh-and-blood human beings with all the virtues and vices of competitiveness, lust, jealousy, love of family etc then what was so stupid about suggesting our new world order should put their natural instincts to work for the good of all?
At the very least, it was surely worthy of discussion. But the professor was having none of it. In his view, my fellow students had given the right (by which he meant Left) answers. Id been simply wrong.
But then luckily for me, I was not taught exclusively by Left-wing ideologues, cast in the mould of Bradburys Howard Kirk or the late Professor Ralph Miliband, father of David and Ed.
Indeed, one of my supervisors was Maurice Cowling, of Peterhouse, who was credited with inspiring a generation of Tory politicians such as Michael Portillo. Another, who taught me economic history, was the treasurer of the universitys Conservative Association.
Throw in a lugubrious Left-winger at Caius, who specialised in the history of the working class in the North of England, and it is fair to say that I was exposed to ideas from every part of the political spectrum.
No such luck for todays students. If a study this week by the Adam Smith Institute is to be believed, the overwhelming majority of academics now teaching in higher education have Left-wing views.
The free-market think tank cites a survey in 2015, which found that only 11 per cent backed the Tories while a whacking 46 per cent supported Labour, and 9 per cent the Lib Dems.
A report by the Adam Smith Institute showed that academics now are more left wing than they were in the 1960s. It urges universities to commit to ideological diversity with the same fervour they commit to gender, class and race diversity
Chasm
More remarkably still, 22 per cent of those who answered an online survey thats more than one in five said they would be voting for the Green Party in the last election.
Compare that with the 3.8 per cent of the wider electorate who voted Green, and a picture emerges of an ideological chasm between the academic world and the general population, who pay through their hard work and taxes to keep dons supplied with port, subsidised dinners, endless holidays and agreeable lodgings.
Add an astonishing YouGov survey in January, which found that no fewer than nine out of 10 academics believe Brexit will have a negative impact on UK higher education, and the gulf between their world and ours seems wider still.
Of course, many have tried to argue that Remainers predominate in universities because they are more intelligent than the rest of us. They include figures such as Professor Nicholas Boyle of Magdalene College, Cambridge, who has loftily dismissed Brexit voters as the lager louts of Europe.
But the theory simply doesnt hold water. Indeed, we can all name Right-leaning Brexiteers Nigel Lawson, Daniel Hannan, Boris Johnson, Michael Gove etc who could knock intellectual spots off the brightest of Remoaners in any debate.
As for thinking its more intelligent to be Left-wing than Right-wing, I reckon we all owe a huge debt to Jeremy Corbyn for proving the fallacy of any such a notion.
The free market think-tank said only 12 per cent of lecturers and researchers support the Conservatives, led by Theresa May (pictured)
Before he came along, preaching his pure Socialist creed from the Labour front bench, we didnt have to give much thought to the implications of being governed by the hard Left.
But since his election, he has focused our minds wonderfully. And as all but a fast diminishing minority can see, the answer is that life would be unendurable and Britain bankrupt within months if he ever put his principles into practice.
Monopoly
No, we must look elsewhere for the explanation of the Lefts vice-like grip on our universities. A part of it, I reckon, can be put down to simple self-interest. Like the BBC, academics rely largely on public funds for their comfortable livelihoods and are therefore naturally inclined to favour high state spending. Many also do nicely out of EU grants.
Another reason is their tendency to appoint like-minded people to the best jobs. Indeed, it often seems the sole qualification for a college headship these days is to have been a Left-wing journalist or Labour politician.
Think of former Guardian editor Alan Rusbridger, now Principal of Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford. Or Labours Chris Smith, now Master of Pembroke, Cambridge. Or Guardian columnist Jackie Ashley, who has been made President of Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge.
The report author Noah Carl said he rarely meets academics who support the Tories and has never met one who supports Ukip (former Ukip leader Nigel Farage pictured)
Whatever the explanation, the Lefts near monopoly of higher education affronts the whole point of a university, which is surely to open young minds to the widest possible range of ideas and encourage students to challenge every orthodoxy.
God knows, the snowflake generation of students banning speakers they disagree with and demanding safe spaces in which nobody is allowed to challenge their prejudices needs little encouragement to adopt an unthinking Left-wing line.
Why should hard-working taxpayers go on financing an academic elite that poisons their impressionable minds with political correctness and fills them with idiotic, identical views that could ruin our nation?
One last question. Which great philosopher has added more to the sum of human happiness? Adam Smith, the 18th-century prophet of free trade, whose ideas are still spreading prosperity today? Or Karl Marx, the advocate of an ideal egalitarian society, in whose name tens of millions have been condemned to poverty and violent death?
No doubt, my Cambridge professor would call me irredeemably stupid. But I know which I prefer and it aint Marx.
Not for the first time, it fell to Norman Tebbit to speak for Britain. Why was it, he asked his fellow members of the Lords, that they were elevating the rights of foreigners over those of the British people?
It seems to me the first duty of this Parliament, of the United Kingdom, is to care for the interests of the citizens of this kingdom, he said.
If we are to be concerned about the rights of anybody after Brexit to live anywhere on this continent of Europe, it should be concern for the rights of British people to live freely and peacefully in those other parts of Europe. Why is everybody here today so excited about an amendment which looks after foreigners and not the British?
Its a pity Norman Tebbit isnt a few years younger. We could have put him in charge of the Brexit negotiations. At least hed speak for Britain
Fair point. But judging by the reaction in the chamber, youd have thought Norman had advocated rounding up all foreign nationals living in Britain and deporting them en masse, preferably at gunpoint. His perfectly accurate use of the word foreigners had some of the more sensitive Lords and Ladies gasping for breath and hissing their disapproval at this ghastly racist in their midst.
Lord Skinhead of Chingford was, of course, merely questioning the demand that before triggering Article 50, Theresa May gives a cast-iron guarantee that all EU citizens currently living in Britain will be allowed to stay after Brexit.
Actually, shes already tried to do that in exchange for a reciprocal assurance that the same will apply to UK citizens living in Europe. But she was knocked back by Angela Merkel, who refuses to enter any kind of negotiation until the Brexit process is formally under way.
It has become almost compulsory for everyone to agree that those EU nationals who have settled here keep the right to stay.
And its true that the majority of EU citizens who have arrived legally over the past few years make a valuable contribution to our economy.
But could the same be said of some of the less desirable elements who have moved to Britain? The Eastern European beggars and pickpockets littering the streets of our cities, for instance, or the assorted criminals we cant deport because of the European yuman rites racket?
The Remoaners dont want to talk about them, naturally. And, frankly, the Lords arent really that bothered about the rights of EU citizens living in Britain.
It is merely a convenient device to try to disrupt, and ideally prevent, Britains departure from the EU. They hold the democratically expressed wishes of more than 17 million voters in contempt and will do everything they can to frustrate the result of the referendum.
The debate on the amendment to the crucial Brexit legislation was far more bad-tempered than most sessions in the House of Lords
Why else would they want to force Mother Theresa to declare her negotiating position in advance?
No one in their right mind shows their cards before bidding in a poker game. Not unless they want to get taken to the cleaners.
No self-respecting union leader or businessman would offer up one-sided concessions before negotiations had even begun.
What the Remoaners refuse to accept is that Britain holds a winning hand. We buy more from the EU than they buy from us.
The Europeans realise that, which is why they are going to bluff for as long as possible. Can you imagine any politician in Europe behaving like the Remain camp in Britain?
Wheres the European equivalent of Project Fear, warning of the dire consequences of losing access to the lucrative British market?
Where are the apocalyptic warnings from the European Bank that millions of jobs will be lost and the EU will go into financial meltdown unless Brussels can strike a favourable deal with the UK?
Where are the demands in Berlin that Mrs Merkel offers British manufacturers free trade in exchange for BMW, Mercedes and Audi being allowed to continue selling cars tariff-free in Britain?
Wheres Hollands answer to Anna Soubry, touring the TV and radio studios in the Netherlands, complaining tearfully that the Dutch economy is doomed unless they give Britain everything she wants?
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST'S 'GAY MOMENT' The remake of Beauty And The Beast is to feature Disneys first exclusively gay moment. Why? Its not as if were short of gay role models on screen, either in Hollywood or on TV. From movies such as Brokeback Mountain to just about every British soap opera and comedy, homosexuality is well represented. So there really is no need for Disney to make a statement. Were not still living in the Seventies, when Dick Emery camping it up on the BBC was about as close as you got. Oh, you are awful, but I like you! Why insert gay characters in childrens stories like Beauty And The Beast, just for the sake of it? We already live in an age when even four-year-olds have to be taught about alternative lifestyles. Kids grow up fast enough as it is. Why does everything have to be sexualised? And, no, I dont just mean homosexualised, I mean writing any kind of gratuitous sex into childrens entertainment. Wheres it all going to end? Now that Disney seems to think that anything goes, Im dreading what will happen when they get round to remaking Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs. Hi-ho! Advertisement
Why arent French hardliners marching down the Champs Elysees, smashing windows and setting fire to police cars, demanding that Paris must agree unconditionally to Britains terms so they can carry on exporting their cheeses, wines and meat? I dont recall the European Parliament passing a motion forcing Jean-Claude Drunker to make any concessions to Britain before the formal Brexit talks start.
And unless Ive missed something, how many former German Chancellors, French Presidents and Italian Prime Ministers have openly sided with Britain, in the same way that Blair and Major have backed Europe against their own people?
No, all weve heard from across the Channel are threats to punish us, to cripple us economically, to make our lives hell once we are stupid enough to leave the EU.
Yet the overwhelming instinct of our political class is to bind the hands of our negotiators, to appease, compromise and, ultimately, surrender with the unelected House of Lords acting as a pro-Brussels fifth column, determined to betray the majority of the people they are paid to represent.
Are they setting themselves up as the EUs Vichy government? Maybe they should move to Brussels.
In wartime, theyd have been put up against a wall and shot. In peacetime, they should be put out to pasture, for good.
Its a pity Norman Tebbit isnt a few years younger. We could have put him in charge of the Brexit negotiations. At least hed speak for Britain.
Fly-past? No, it's a military tattoo...
It was only a matter of time before the RAF fell to the trans brigade. But it was the statement justifying making women in the air force wear trousers instead of skirts which intrigued me:
There are concerns that by forcing RAF personnel to wear skirts its discriminatory towards a variety of people, such as those with tattoos and transgender people.
Hang on a minute. Since when did those with tattoos become a vulnerable minority? From what I can make out, those of us without tattoos are in the minority these days.
Since when did those with tattoos become a vulnerable minority? From what I can make out, those of us without tattoos are in the minority these days, writes Richard Littlejohn
How would RAF staff with tattoos be disadvantaged by wearing skirts?
Surely the whole point of having tattoos is displaying them.
Anyway, how many RAF women or transgenders, for that matter have tattoos on their legs?
I know that sailors have traditionally favoured anchors on their arms. Do the RAF go in for fighter planes on their calves?
And if they do, why would they want to cover them up?
Fine pair of Spitfires, show em off, show em off.
Last week, I wrote that I was having trouble coming up with a funnier nickname for the new Met Commissioner than Cressida Dick. Ive since heard from a number of readers with their own suggestions.
Most were unsuitable for a family newspaper and some of them could get me arrested.
Best of the bunch came from Mike Robinson, who thought Cressida could be the love-child of the late Jack Warner.
Dick Of Dock Green.
The police say they are so short-staffed they have been unable to apprehend tens of thousands of suspects, including hundreds of murderers and sex offenders, more than 1,000 of them wanted for rape.
Perhaps if they didnt spend so much time and money investigating historic sex offences, they might be able to catch some criminals who unlike Jimmy Savile are still alive.
A British backpacker whose friend dropped out of their trip around Australia may be feeling thankful for the last minute change of plan - after being inundated with offers from women who want to step in as his travelling companion.
Robert Keane, 27, from Ireland, had to cancel on his friend Paddy James, 23, just two weeks before their trip along the east coast this month and posted a message on the Australian Backpackers Facebook page, appealing for a replacement.
He helpfully included pictures of Paddy, from Southampton, showing off his chiselled chest on the beach and wading out of the ocean like Daniel Craig in his famous scene from the 007 film Casino Royale.
And within hours, Paddy was bombarded with messages from potential female travel companions, and even an offer of marriage from one ardent admirer.
Backpacker Paddy James, 23, from Southampton has been inundated with offers from female admirers after his friend posted an appeal for a new travelling companion for him on Facebook
One of the snaps of Paddy on Facebook (left) bore a remarkable resemblance to Daniel Craig's iconic appearance in Casino Royale (right)
'He didn't really expect that response,' Robert, who works in marketing in Sydney, told FEMAIL.
'It was heart-warming to see all the help and support people were offering. The offers were crazy.'
Paddy has since received around 100 friend requests and over 150 private messages from potential female travelling companions.
'My phone blew up for a couple of days,' Paddy, who used to work with Robert in Sydney, said.
Robert Keane, 27, had to cancel on his friend Paddy James, 23, just two weeks before their trip along the East coast of Australia in March. So he posted on a Backpackers Facebook group to help him find a travel companion
'I received a mixture of messages: some from people travelling around the same time, others asking me to go different dates.
Some were offering to show me around when I'm in different cities and some girls even asked me to visit their country.'
One girl even joked that she was going to Vegas with Paddy to 'put a ring on it straight away'.
Paddy (pictured) has received around 100 friend requests and over 150 private messages - all from girls
Paddy (pictured) did not expect to get so many offers from travelling companions, let along marriage proposals
Robert added: 'I felt bad I left him alone and was hoping someone would agree to go with him.
'Little did either of us expect him to get hundreds of offers.'
Despite the overwhelming response, Paddy has yet to find a travel companion who is leaving Sydney on the same date as he is.
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You never forget the moment you first lay eyes on your child, but so rarely does that moment last for longer than a split second.
But one Western Australia family will be able to cherish that instant forever thanks to this beautiful photograph that was taken as they first held little Reuben.
The gorgeous picture shows Meagan Snook, 36, holding her son in a birth pool, cradling him in her arms, as her proud husband Lee O'Sullivan beams with pure joy.
It is a beautiful moment, one that is all the more special for the family as it came nearly two years to the day that the birth of their first child
This is the beautiful moment Meagan Snook, 36, and her husband Lee O'Sullivan, 46, laid eyes on their son Reuben for the very first time
The couple's first-born came into the world under much different circumstances.
Lee, 46, told Daily Mail Australia that he often remembers the day his daughter Alice was born as 'the best and worst of my life'.
He was whisked away from the birthing room by midwives, leaving Meagan in a 'bath of red', before he had to hold a tiny oxygen mask to his daughter's face.
Lee had no idea what condition his wife was in, or if Alice was going to be okay. He took a photo with their daughter before Meagan even got the chance to meet her.
It was a traumatic experience for the family, so Lee was apprehensive when Meagan first told him she wanted to deliver their second child at home in November.
'When Meagan told me she wanted a home birth, most of what happened that day came flooding back,' he said.
Meagan chose to give birth in a pool at the couple's Western Australia home when she delivered Reuben in November
After such a chaotic delivery with her first-born, Megan wanted Reuben's entrance in the world to feel as natural as possible
'I had my concerns, but trusted Meagan's choice was the right one.'
After such a chaotic delivery with her first-born, Megan wanted Reuben's entrance in the world to feel as natural as possible.
Giving birth in the comfort of her own home also alleviated many anxieties, she added.
'I did not need to worry about travelling to a hospital in labour, worry about who would look after our daughter, worry if the birthing pool would be vacant,' she said.
'Having a home birth also reassured me that I would not be exposed to unnecessary interventions and that every effort would be made to follow my birth wishes.'
That comfort was paramount as Meagan went through six-and-a-half hours of labour during what she calls one of the hardest nights of her life.
But all that stress and pain melted away when Reuben calmly came into the world at just the right time.
'There's so much unpredictability with birth, but his timing was perfect because our daughter was asleep next door,' Meagan said.
Her daughter Alice woke up 10 minutes after Reuben was born, and then got to meet her little brother for the first time
The couple's photographer also captured the touching first moment that the entire family first cuddled together
As Meagan and Reuben first laid eyes on their newborn son, the rest of the world melted away.
'Birth for me was such an internal experience, I barely opened my eyes,' said Meagan.
'That relief once the baby is there and you can actually open your eyes and breathe again, it's such an amazing moment.'
'When Reuben was born all the happiness, relief, worry and stress surfaced in my emotions,' added Lee.
'Every parent I'm sure would describe the birth of their children as the most emotionally-filled day of their lives. You can add me to that list.'
Both parents completely forgot their birth photographer, Belle Verdiglione, was in the room as they stared into Reuben's eyes for the first time.
But as they looked at her photographs, they were able to relive the beautiful and peaceful experience all over again.
'I will be forever grateful to have these images,' Meagan said.
'Especially seeing the facial expressions of Lee seeing his son for the first time and Alice meeting her little brother for the first time. Priceless.'
Meagan said the family often forgot that their photographer Belle was in the room as they melted into the moment
As one of the most stylish members of the royal set, the Duchess of Cambridge has millions hanging on her every outfit.
But it appears Kate has some competition, as Prince Harry's girlfriend Meghan Markle and Lady Amelia Windsor are fast catching up when it comes to boosting clothing sales.
Fashion e-tailer Lyst.co.uk has revealed that a nod from a member of the royal inner circle like Pippa Middleton is enough to send a brand's sales through the roof with items selling out in hours. So who really wields the most style influence?
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Kate attends a reception at Government House during the September 2016 royal tour of Canada, left, in a red Preen gown, which went on to sell out within 10 hours of her appearance
Data experts have calculated just how much the royal inner circle affect our shopping habits, proving that the 'Kate effect' is alive and well after sales of a wool blazer shot up by 114 per cent, while Meghan Markle recently caused her favourite lace-up pumps to completely sell out.
From Diana's 'revenge' LBD to Pippa's infamous bridesmaid dress, we reveal biggest royal influencers.
THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE
Kate, 35, opted for a chic cowgirl look on a visit to Haida Gwaii, British Columbia during the royal tour of Canada in September 2016.
On the last day of her tour, online searches for 'bow blouses' increased by 62 per cent with cream and white proving the most popular colours for Kate fans.
Fashion site Lyst has revealed the true value of the royals' influence, with the 'Kate effect' in full swing during her Canada tour (pictured at the Haida Gwaii, British Columbia in September)
The Duchess' laid-back ensemble comprising a Temperley bow blouse, left, and Smythe blazer, right, was responsible for a surge in searches for similar styles, according to Lyst.co.uk
Intriguingly, 13 per cent of shoppers who snapped up cream blouses also bought a dark coloured blazer, suggesting they were hoping to emulate the Duchess' look for themselves.
Searches for 'Smythe Blazer' - like Kate's - increased by a staggering 114 per cent while the exact style sold out online within 48 hours.
Kate turned heads in a show-stopping red Preen by Thorton Bregazzi gown at a glittering reception that same week, which subsequently sold out on Lyst within 10 hours. The outfit also sparked a 102 per cent search for the term 'red dress'.
MEGHAN MARKLE
Prince Harry's girlfriend steps out for lunch in Toronto in November, just days after her romance with the royal was revealed - and sends sales of handbags and pumps soaring
Searches for Meghan's favourite Sarah Flint Lily Ankle-Tie Flats have gone through the roof, experts say, with the style completely selling out across Lyst's 450 retail partners
She's become a reluctant fashion icon since news of her romance with Britain's most eligible bachelor emerged late last year.
And Meghan has been credited with a spike in sales of pumps, boots and designer totes.
When the first pictures surfaced of Meghan and Harry holding hands while out shopping, her Burberry HazleHurst suede boots sold out on Lyst within 36 hours with searches for ankle boots and Burberry boots also soaring.
The Suits actress' trusty Sarah Flint ankle tie flats have also seen a huge surge in interest since November, selling out completely, while her Saint Laurent Sac Du Jour is thought to be behind a boost in searches for 'navy bags'.
LADY AMELIA WINDSOR
Lady Amelia Windsor opts for a laid-back look at the Shrimps of London presentation at LFW, left, sparking a boost in searches and sales for cami dresses by 78 per cent and 68 per cent
A surge in sales of this 335 Women's Striped Cotton And Linen-blend Wrap Jacket from Jacquemus is believed to be linked to Lady Amelia Windsor's LFW appearance
Tatler's 'most beautiful royal' and the 36th in line to the throne, is no stranger to the grunge look, and her outfit for the Shrimps of London presentation at London Fashion Week certainly turned heads.
The 21-year-old boosted searches and sales for cami dresses by 78 per cent and 68 per cent respectively, which data experts say is 'very surprising' for this time of year. Some 14 per cent snapped out a white s-shirt with their purchase too - just like Lady Amelia.
Pin stripe searches also jumped by 35 per cent, with a Jacquemus Women's White Pinstripe wrap jacket fast becoming the be most viewed item on Lyst.
PRINCESS DIANA
Diana turns head in a strapless LBD and choker at a Vanity Fair party at London's Serpentine Gallery - a retrospective style exhibition sparked a spike in interest in copycat LBDs
Copycat: The Row's women's black 'Hali' off-the-shoulder stretch crepe mini dress
The late Princess died almost 20 years ago but it appears she is still making waves in the fashion world from beyond the grave.
Perhaps her most iconic ensemble, the so-called 'revenge gown' which she wore to a charity dinner following news of her acrimonious split from Prince Charles in 1994, is believed to be behind an unprecedented surge in LBD sales according to experts at Lyst.
Last month, following the announcement of the Diana: Her Fashion Story exhibition at Kensington Palace, Lyst reported an unprecedented 87 per cent spike in searches for little black dresses, with 12 per cent of their LBD styles selling out altogether.
Meanwhile an off-the-shoulder crepe mini from The Row, almost identical to Diana's Christina Stambolian frock, has fast become the most-viewed LBD on the entire site.
PIPPA MIDDLETON
Pippa steals the show at her sister's wedding to Prince William in 2011, left, sparking a huge surge in searches for Alexander McQueen dresses on Lyst like this one, right
The youngest Middleton sister shot to fame thanks to her form-fitting bridesmaid gown at the 2011 royal wedding.
Thanks to her pert posterior, which made headlines all around the world, searches for Alexander McQueen dresses increased by a staggering 135 per cent.
Meanwhile, specific keywords such as 'figure hugging' and 'floor length' alongside 'dress' accounted for 81 per cent of all dress-related search queries.
Her trusty Launer handbag is as intrinsic to the Queen as crowns and corgis, but it turns out the accessory has a more important use than holding her spectacles on official engagements.
According to royal historian Hugo Vickers, the monarch uses her bag to send secret signals to her staff to indicate when she's ready to move on from a conversation.
He told People magazine that shifting her bag from one hand to the other is an indication the royal is ready to end a chat, and it's been said the Queen will place her bag on a table at events to signal that she's ready to leave.
A third secret signal is a discreet twist of her wedding ring, which the Queen uses to emphasise that she'd like to be moved on from a conversation quickly.
According to royal historian Hugo Vickers, if you see the Queen switching her bag from one hand to the other, it's a secret signal to her staff that she's ready to end a conversation
A discreet twist of her wedding ring is said to be a sign the Queen would like to be moved along from a conversation with speed
The Queen, pictured at Ascot in 2016, first started her love of Launer bags in 1968 and is believed to have more than 200
Of the handbag hand switch to summon helpers, Vickers said: 'Luckily, theyd let you down easy.'
'It would be done very nicely. Someone would come along and say, "Sir, the Archbishop of Canterbury would very much like to meet you".
According to Vickers, if the Queen is particularly keen to exit the conversation she will make the more significant gesture of twisting her ring as a sign to staff to intervene.
Also, while taking official meetings at Buckingham Palace she has the use of a discreet buzzer that gives staff the nod to open the doors and accompany the guest out.
It's previously been revealed that when the Queen places her bag on the table at an event, it's a five minute warning to her ladies-in-waiting that she's ready to leave.
The Queen is not the only one who makes her handbag more than just an accessory to complement her outfit.
SECRETS OF THE QUEEN'S BAG The monarch has each of her Launer handbags customised with longer handles so they don't get in the way when shaking hands. The Queen wants ease of opening, so that means no shoulder bag or zips. Her bespoke bags always come with a mirror, a matching purse and a glasses case. The Queen's love affair with Launer began when she was sent a bag in 1968 by Sam Launer, and the company was given the Royal Warrant. Although the black patent model is her favourite, the royal has been experimenting with more bold colours in recent years. It's been said her handbag always contains practical essentials like mints, a handkerchief, and a fountain pen. According to Sally Bedell Smith, who wrote Elizabeth the Queen: The Woman Behind the Throne, the royal handbag also contains a portable hook which is used to hang it beneath tables. Advertisement
The Queen, pictured on a visit to Liverpool in June 2016, carrying her black patent Launer bag, which is her favourite model
Switching her bag from one hand to the other sends a subtle signal to her ladies-in-waiting, according to a royal historian
THE QUEEN'S LOVE AFFAIR WITH LAUNER LONDON HANDBAGS The Queen's trademark structured handbags come from Launer London. Her love affair with the brand began when she was sent a bag in 1968 by Sam Launer, and the company was later given the Royal Warrant. Launer is since believed to have supplied more than 200 bags to the Queen. Although the black patent model is her favourite, the royal has been experimenting with more bold colours in recent years. The classic totes come with a price tag of up to 1,650, but are worn again and again by the royal, who recycles them for engagements and even has the fittings repaired rather than splash out on new models. Her Majesty, 90, 'likes her black patent' and usually wears the black-patent Traviata, costing 1,550. She also owns several different versions of the Adagio in black and patent cream, both 1,300, the Bellini, costing 1,250, the Royale, sold at 1,650, the Lulu in cream, priced at 740, and the Encore handbag in black calf leather. Advertisement
Recently, the founder of Beaumont Etiquette Myka Meier told Good Housekeeping that the Duchess of Cambridge always carries a clutch bag for a very particular reason.
She revealed that Kate, 35, often 'holds her bag in front of her in both hands when shaking hands might be awkward'.
Meanwhile, the Queen carries her bag over her left arm so that her right hand is free to greet people.
But what does she keep in there? Each bag comes with a glasses case, mirror and matching purse
A medicine student from the University of Western Australia, Denae Sinclair, has launched a Change.org petition ahead of a health seminar by controversial anti-vaccination advocate David 'Avocado' Wolfe.
Mr Wolfe, a self-proclaimed 'Health, Eco, Nutrition, and Natural Beauty Expert', is set to touch down in Perth next weekend to hold a three day wellness seminar at the Rendezvous Hotel in Scarborough.
He is best known for his controversial views on anti-vaccination, and believing the earth is flat.
David 'Avocado' Wolfe currently on tour in Australia promises to go 'beyond health to share new findings on how the world really works'
'At this conference, he will undoubtedly spew forth unscientific, false and frankly dangerous claims which can endanger the health, well being and lives of those who are subjected to it, and who may not possess the skills or education to seek better understanding,' Denae, a University of Western Australia medicine student, wrote on Change.org
Ms Sinclair told WA today that Mr Wolfe's contentious stance on a number of health issues was concerning.
'When I heard he was coming to Perth, to speak at a well-known hotel function center for $440 per ticket, I had to step up and say something.
The controversial anti-vaccination advocate who believes the earth is flat and gravity is a hoax has caused outrage during his appearance in Australia
'I fear that people will be harmed by his messages, and will forgo actual medicine for ineffective and dangerous 'natural' remedies,' she said.
'Anti-vaccinators promote dangerous ideas that lead to poor health outcomes in a society.'
But Mr Wolfe told WA today that he wasn't troubled by the petition.
'I don't really feel anything about it, I'm just going to show up and deliver my health message on nutrition, foods, superfoods, and herbalism,' he said.
'Sane and rational people understand that censorship leads to tyranny and this is a free country and freedom shall prevail,' he added.
But one commenter in support of the petition wrote: 'He cannot be spreading his ideas and therapies to the public. He shouldn't be given the opportunity to hold a seminar.'
Tickets are $440 for the full three days, and the event is hosted by Australian company Superfeast.
A Superfeast spokesperson said Mr Wolfe's personal beliefs were not relevant to the events' sole purpose.
'David is here to talk about nutrition, wellness and detoxification. Our interest as a company and for the event is enhancing all the participant's health practices and goals... we would like to reiterate that the tour is not, nor ever has been promoted as having anything to do with vaccinations,' she said.
Vaccine advocates in the Byron Shire have slammed the US-born 'conspiracy theorist' and urged vulnerable parents not to listen to his 'dangerous ideas'
Ms Sinclair explained on the post that she was fearful for impressionable individuals.
'(It will) further contribute to poor vaccination rates and increasing incidence of vaccine-preventable disease, as well as a general distrust of science and medicine,' she wrote on Change.org
David 'Avocado' Wolfe, currently touring Australia, promises to go 'beyond health to share new findings on how the world really works'.
On his website he claims that 'a growing body of evidence indicates that vaccines are not safe and that they can injure, permanently maim, or even kill you or a family member.'
He's set to speak in Byron Bay and vaccine advocates in the Byron Shire, which has the lowest vaccination rate in the country, have slammed the US-born 'conspiracy theorist' and urged vulnerable parents not to listen to his 'dangerous ideas.'
Last week, the Northern Rivers Vaccination Supporters sent an open letter to the host of the upcoming seminar, Jing Organics.
The Byron Shire has the lowest vaccination rate in the country (stock image)
'We wish to bring your attention to the upcoming talk that David 'Avocado' Wolfe has been booked for in Byron Bay,' the letter read.
'We have concerns that in this region of already dangerously low vaccination rates, a known anti-vaccination activist will be given a platform to spread his misinformation surrounding the safety and efficacy of vaccination.'
The organisation wrote that Wolfe's appearance will do 'nothing to help accurately inform the community about vaccines; but it does place them at risk by exposing them to falsehoods.
'We see this as a Public Health issue and ask that you support us in our efforts to prevent the spread of misinformation like that which Mr. Wolfe has spoken about in the past.'
Owner of Jing Organics Adam Kingsley says he too is an anti-vaccine advocate (stock)
Owner of Jing Organics Adam Kingsley told The Daily Telegraph he too is an anti-vaccine advocate.
'I'm anti-vaccine, I'm publicly open about that, just because stuff is peer reviewed doesn't mean it's true. David Wolfe is a world health expert,' Mr Kingsley said.
Wolfe, who calls himself a nutritionist and the 'rock star and Indiana Jones of the superfoods and longevity universe,' also believes the world is flat and gravity is a hoax.
Little Jack Sparrow may be tiny, but he has already made a huge impact in his short time in the world.
The nearly six-week-old baby, whose full name is Jack Riley Sadgrove, was born more than 15 weeks premature and weighed just 693 grams at birth.
Now his parents Amy and Brendan, from Sydney, are helping the little one fight for his life, and raising thousands of dollars for the hospital taking care of him in the process.
Jack Riley Sadgrove, nicknamed Jack Sparrow by his parents Amy (pictured) and Brendan due to his tiny size, was born more than 15 weeks premature and weighed just 693g at birth
Now his parents are helping the little one fight for his life, and raising thousands of dollars for the hospital taking care of him in the process
Jack's mother, Amy, knew something wasn't right when she went to the bathroom and saw a few drops of blood in the middle of the night.
She and Brendan decided to play it safe and go to the hospital, where a doctor informed them that the mum-to-be was already 6cm dilated.
'I am so sorry,' the doctor said. 'But you are probably going to deliver your baby tonight.'
Suddenly a 'dream' pregnancy had turned into a nightmare in just 24 weeks.
The next few hours became a swirl of doctors with scary statistics detailing the chances their little boy would survive and what disabilities he could face if he did.
One of the first questions the doctors asked Amy and Brendan was if they wanted to keep the baby, or terminate.
But 24 weeks was the first point of viability where a baby has any chance of survival if delivered prematurely. Little Jack had hit the 24 week mark that very night.
Jack had just hit the 24-week mark when Amy went to the bathroom in the middle of the night and saw spots of blood. The doctors then informed her she was in labour
One of the first questions the doctors asked Amy and Brendan were if they wanted to keep the baby, or terminate due to his low chance of survival
For Amy and Brendan, it was no decision.
The doctors advised the couple to stay calm in an effort to try and keep Jack in as long as possible.
Although it seemed like an impossible task, Amy utilised her yoga and meditation practice to relax and try and focus on the task at hand.
Brendan said that, for the next five days, Amy was in a 'state of calm' that he had never seen before.
On the fifth day, the doctors realised little Jack had to come out - whether they were ready or not.
An ultrasound revealed that Jack had turned, and the umbilical cord was dangerously below him.
They feared that if Amy's water broke in the middle of the night, the minimal staff and doctors on hand would not be able to handle a dangerous delivery.
It may have been less than a week, but those five days were still huge for little Jack.
Two courses of steroids and magnesium had given his lungs and brain a super boost of growth. Doctors said it raised his chances of survival by 10 per cent.
But 24 weeks was the first point of viability where a baby has any chance of survival if delivered prematurely. After five more days in hospital, Amy gave birth to little Jack
Two courses of steroids and magnesium had given his lungs and brain a super boost of growth during those five days. Doctors said it raised his chances of survival by 10 per cent
Jack, who completely skipped the third trimester, was delivered on January 21. Amy got to hold him a week after he was born.
It remains a long way back for little Jack, who is expected to remain in the NICU at the Royal Hospital for Women in Sydney for up to four months.
There are multiple times a day when his tiny lungs become too tired and just stop, causing how heart to slow down.
And his struggle has been admittedly hard to watch for Brendan and Amy.
'Being the parent of any baby, let alone a preemie baby, is such a rollercoaster,' Brendan told Daily Mail Australia.
'It has been the kindness of friends, family and strangers and the incredible dedication of the hospital staff that have kept our feet on the ground.'
'Jack is our world. We are taking each day as it comes and each day my intention is to be able to take a steady and comfortable seat, no matter the circumstances,' Amy added.
'Of course this is easier some days, harder other days, but Brendan is such an amazing support that I know we will deal with anything.'
Brendan and Amy's friends decided to rally around the couple and set up a GoFundMe campaign to help raise money while they were away from work.
But the couple were adamant that all funds go to the NICU that is helping keep Jack alive.
Brendan said he is extremely proud of the boy who has 'already changed the world'. The family has raised more than $40,000 for the Royal Hospital for Women in Sydney since his birth
Brendan had been speaking with the nurses during the first few days after Jack's birth, and learned how desperately they needed money for the simplest of things.
There were cushions they wanted to put in the parents' room and blankets for the humidicribs that were necessary along with lifesaving medical equipment.
The GoFundMe has since raised more than $40,000, already enough to outfit the NICU with reclining chairs for mum's to breastfeed and cuddle their newborns.
New parts for vital breathing equipment can now also be purchased, and some of the raised funds will also be used to refurbish the parents' room.
It has been an incredible achievement that all began thanks to one tiny baby.
'In such a short time, this little block has already changed the world,' Brendan said.
'I am so bloody proud of the little guy, I think I might explode.'
'When he was at his worst, I was holding his hand and I swear he was looking up at me and he knew I was there,' he added.
'I will never forget that look he gave me.'
She took to Instagram to celebrate gracing the cover of the first ever edition of Vogue Arabia.
But Gigi Hadid has been accused of 'cultural appropriation' by furious commentators who are unhappy about her sporting a veil in the magazine shoot.
The supermodel, who is half-Palestinian and whose father is Muslim, has sparked a backlash on social media with some accusing her of reducing the hijab to a 'fashion statement'.
Critics blasted Gigi for using the veil, worn by millions of Muslim women around the world, as a 'trend' rather than religious dress.
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Gigi posed for two separate black and white images wearing a beaded veil on Vogue Arabia's first ever print edition. In another image, she can be seen wearing a pink headscarf
Gigi, 21, posed for the black and white cover images in a beaded veil that covered half of her face on the the 'reorienting perceptions' issue of the landmark edition, shot by photographer duo Inez and Vinoodh.
In pictures featured inside, she can be seen posing in a colourful headscarf in what has been described as 'uniquely Arabian' styling.
Before the backlash ensued, Gigi gushed on Instagram that sharing 'different cultures' was a 'beautiful thing', speaking of the fashion industry's 'desire to continue to accept, celebrate, and incorporate all people & customs'.
But angry fans flocked to social media to accuse her of 'using the hijab as a fashion statement', with one telling Gigi: 'The hijab is not "cultural".
Angry fans have taken to Twitter asking Gigi to 'stop using the hijab as a fashion statement' with one suggesting she was 'appropriating' religious dress in her Vogue shoot
Gigi gushed that sharing 'different cultures' was a 'beautiful thing', speaking of the fashion industry's 'desire to continue to accept, celebrate, and incorporate all people & customs'
Some people took to Gigi's Instagram page and asked the supermodel why she doesn't 'speak out about Palestinian issues or culture' with another writing: 'Stop using the hijab as a trend'
Others suggested she was 'only Palestinian when it suited her' because the model has in the past stayed quiet on political issues in her father's home country.
MailOnline has contacted Conde Nast and Gigi's representatives for comment.
Gigi's veil is draped across part of the model's face in the Arabic language edition of the magazine, and significantly more of her face in the English language edition.
The debut print issue - which is on stands March 5 - is entitled Reorienting Perceptions.
'Vogue Arabia is me': The model's cover give her a chnace to celebrate her heritage as Gigi's father Mohamed Hadid (pictured last year) is Palestinian and Muslim
A guide to Muslim headwear Hijab A hijab is a veil traditionally worn by Muslim women in the presence of adult males outside of their immediate family. Their face is visible and it typically covers a woman's head and chest. Niqab A niqab is a veil which covers almost the whole face, showing only the eyes. Burka A burka is a full body cloak worn by some Muslim women. A piece of semi-transparent cloth in front of the eyes allows the woman to see. Advertisement
The shoot marks Gigi's 21st Vogue cover, but she took to social media to say that this one was a very special to her.
Gigi wrote: ''Being half-Palestinian, it means the world to me to be on the first-ever cover(s) of @voguearabia, and I hope that this magazine will show another layer of the fashion industry's desire to continue to accept, celebrate, and incorporate all people & customs and make everyone feel like they have fashion images and moments they can relate to... & learn and grow in doing so.'
Vogue Arabia's Editor-in-Chief, Deena Aljuhani Abdulaziz, said the model was the perfect face to launch the magazine.
'In one poised photograph, she communicates a thousand words to a region that's been waiting far too long for its Vogue voice to speak,' she said.
Lending her voice: the magazine launched a digital edition last year and Gigi starred in a video teasing her involvement ahead of the release of its debut cover this week
'The collage of countries across the Arab world are long-deserving of a place in fashion history and there's no better first ''face'' to lead the charge for Vogue Arabia than Gigi, a model who defines tomorrow's entrepreneurial and dynamic generation.'
Gigi's mother Yolanda also re-posted to cover and dedicated it to Gigi's grandmother who ensured that her children and grandchildren embraced their cultural heritage.
What is cultural appropriation - and why do huge brands constantly fall foul of it? Several big names have found themselves accused of cultural appropriation - defined as 'adopting elements of one culture by another culture.' In September last year, designer Marc Jacobs sent dreadlocked white models - including Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner - down the catwalk at New York Fashion Week. The stylist behind the show, Guido Palau, was forced to defend the fact that the show consisted of predominantly white models and was widely accused of cultural appropriation on Twitter. One social media user wrote at the time: 'Why does Marc Jacobs think it's okay to use dreadlocks on white people?' And in December, lingerie goliath Victoria's Secret found itself in a similar scenario after it showed models wearing 'exotic' lingerie influenced by Asian and Mexican designs. Cosmopolitan Lifestyle Editor Helin Jung suggested that the company was being derogatory for thinking it might sell more lingerie in a country if it aped their cultural designs. She wrote: 'What condescension, for Victoria's Secret to think that by wrapping a model in a dragon, it could connect directly with a new consumer in China.' Advertisement
Yolanda said on Instagram: 'This one is for you KHAIR HADID, I know you are watching down on us from heaven........ #RIP #MyPreciousMotherInLaw I was blessed to be educated, eat her home cooked Arabic food, and experience the beauty of her Muslim traditions.'
She added: 'I know she would have been so proud to see her granddaughter on the first cover of @voguearabia @gigihadid #DutchArabAmerican #ProudMommy.'
Gigi's cover was was styled by Brandon Maxwell, Lady Gaga's stylist, who dressed Syrian refugee Hala Kamil, the subject of documentary Watani: My Homeland, for the Oscars.
Gigi attends the Tommy X Gigi Spring 2017 collection at Paris Fashion Week last month. The model has come under fire in the past for 'cultural appropriation'
Proud mama: Gigi's mom Yolanda also re-posted to cover and dedicated it to Gigi's grandmother who did all she could to show her children and their children their culture
The debut print issue of Vogue Arabia will be available across the Middle East and North African region, as well as international locations including London, Paris, and Milan.
The magazine - which launched a digital edition first late last year - is the 22nd international version of Vogue and promises women of the region and also Muslim women high fashion styled with modest flair.
The magazine will offer both an English and Arabic language editions. In a promo video released last year teasing Gigi's involvement the star said: 'Vogue Arabia is me'.
When he decided to combine his two passions film-making and mountaineering there was only going to be one place Joe French would end up: Everest.
The worlds highest and deadliest mountain has always drawn climbers, but to conquer it with a camera too was always Joes mission.
In his 11 previous trips to the Himalayas, however, the intrepid Brit (who lives in Scotland with his wife and two daughters, and is a member of the Ben Nevis mountain rescue team) had only gone so far up the iconic slopes.
Joe French believed that he had met his death when he was devoured by an avalanche on Everest
Tragedy seemed to stalk him. In 2014, he and his team from the Discovery Channel had arrived at Everest to film a special in which US mountaineer Joby Ogwyn was planning to jump from the summit in a wingsuit (which has fabric between the arms and the body and between the legs, making the user look much like a flying squirrel) and glide 10,000ft to terra firma.
Alas, events conspired against them, fatally. When Joes team were due to start their ascent, Sherpa guides went on ahead to prepare the difficult path over the ice fields. Disaster struck.
An ice avalanche on the Western spur of Everest killed 16 Sherpas, and what Joes team ended up filming was a desperate rescue and recovery operation.
Had Joe not woken early and decided to go for a walk, he believes he would not be alive today as his tent was flattened by the snow fall
Everyone sprang into action, he recalls. All the mountain guides and medics know what to do. It was terrible to watch them bring down the bodies, but it was the first time I became aware of what a vital job the helicopter rescue guys do.
The following year when he returned to Everest, it was with some trepidation. He talks of how this trip was to confront some of the horror of the previous year, but he ended up in the midst of an even bigger natural disaster that almost took his life.
The Nepalese earthquake of April 2015 claimed almost 9,000 lives, 22 of them on the slopes of Everest as the earthquake triggered another huge avalanche.
Joe was at base camp at the time, at 17,600ft above sea level, preparing for the ascent that had not happened the previous year. It was the start of the climbing season so base camp was busy. Had Joe not woken early and decided to go for a walk, he believes he would not be alive today. My tent was flattened, he says. I would have died if Id been in there. I only survived because I decided to take a walk.
The aftermath of the 2015 avalanche that nearly killed Joe
Few live to tell the story of what it feels like to be hit by an avalanche. Joe not only survived it but filmed it.
He says when he first felt tremors he instinctively whipped out his camera, just in time to see the entire mountain rush towards me. There was a moment of disbelief. I remember thinking, Ive got the shot, then, This is going to kill me.
He took the full force of the avalanche. I was submerged by the snow, he recalls. People think of an avalanche as like a slide. When it happens, its more like a bomb blast, it comes at you so fast.
'I remember tent poles flying, my lungs filling with snow. Then a calm descended. There was a weird sense of acceptance. I think I was bracing myself to leave the planet.
By some miracle he managed to extricate himself from the snow, but many didnt. The two people closest to me didnt make it. His memories of that day are horrific.
The injuries people suffer in this situation are like bomb blast injuries. You have people with their faces hanging off, brains blown out. People were dying in front of us. It was like a war zone, but our group was cut off from the rest of the world.
Survivors did their best to administer first aid, and a makeshift morgue was set up. Then came the agonising wait for help to arrive from the outside world. When it did, the feeling was overwhelming.
I remember tent poles flying, my lungs filling with snow. Then a calm descended. There was a weird sense of acceptance. I think I was bracing myself to leave the planet
Ill never forget the sound of that first helicopter. It was barely audible at first, the faintest rumble, but then the sound builds and builds. One helicopter popped up, then another, then another. It was the most joyful experience ever.
Joe hadnt been back to Everest since that day until last year when he decided he had to return to film the work of the helicopter pilots who risk their lives every day to airlift injured climbers off the mountain.
These guys are incredible. They take those machines, which arent designed to go that high, and perform the impossible.
The nail-biting six-part series follows a team of helicopter pilots as they make often treacherous missions to reach climbers in peril.
These guys operate on a knife edge, explains Joe. Its often perilous, even in good conditions. Add in bad conditions and, well, I dont know how these guys stay so calm.
One team of climbers get stranded after their camp is blown away by a storm and the rescue teams simply cannot find them. Theyre forced to spend a night in the open, and when the helicopter does reach them it cant land because the ice shelf on which theyre stranded is not stable enough. All eight have to be winched out separately.
He admits he was crazy afraid going back up there, but he also feels the film needed to be made. These pilots are true heroes, he says. We all owe them so much.
Everest Rescue, Sunday 12 March, 9pm, Discovery Channel.
Alan Davies is waiting for his kids to come home from school. My wifes gone to collect them and the whirlwind will come through the front door any minute, he jokes.
Very often its Alan who does the school run, and he says he wouldnt have it any other way.
I work unusual hours so Im really like a mum because Im at all the kids activities: music groups, playgroups, school run, all that Im quite often the only dad there.
Alan Davies says 'Parenthood is the greatest joy but fatigue is your enemy so you really have to try to go to bed a bit earlier'
Alan became a household name in 1997 when he landed the role of Jonathan Creek, a magicians assistant with a talent for solving unusual crimes.
Subsequently hes become the longest-serving panellist on quiz show QI, and hes the first to admit his life has been transformed over the past ten years.
Once synonymous with volatile relationships and eternal bachelorhood, the 50-year-old is now a happily married family man after meeting childrens author Katie Maskell 12 years ago backstage at QI, where she was visiting with a friend.
In fact, he now chooses jobs to maximise the amount of time he has at home in north London with their children Susie, seven, Bobby, five, and Francis, one, which makes the return of his comedy chat show As Yet Untitled currently on its fifth series all the sweeter.
I harbour no ambitions at all on the work front, admits Alan. I like working, but you change your priorities when you become a parent. Im not pushing for acting jobs like I once did because then youre on location 60 hours a week.
'As Yet Untitled is really fun and the guests are hilarious, we only film for two hours and the studio is really near where I live.
Alan is happily married to children's author Katie Davies (pictured together) and the pair celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary this year
He and Katie celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary earlier this year and while he couldnt be happier since becoming a dad, hes honest about how having children has affected their relationship. Its really hard, especially when you have the third one, he admits.
Its horrible because the thing you lose is your wife. You have to make sure you dont wreck what you had at the start. We had a family holiday the week before Christmas so we could build things up again, because you can look round and the kids have grown up and you dont even know each other any more.
You change and you have to allow for that and work at it. Every cliche youve ever heard about marriage and parenthood is true. Parenthood is the greatest joy but fatigue is your enemy so you really have to try to go to bed a bit earlier.
'Something has to give and unfortunately its the sauvignon blanc. When we watch TV at night, we dont drink wine any more, you cant be selfish though we made up for it celebrating our anniversary.
Alan as Johnathan Creek with co-star Sarah Alexander as Polly Creek
Alan is now at peace with how lifes panned out. Growing up in Chingford, Essex, he was deeply affected by the death of his mother from leukaemia when he was six. He received no counselling.
The attitude was, the least said the better, he recalls. I was never encouraged to talk about her. My father was left to bring up three children while working full time in the City.
I loved primary school. After mum died my teacher really looked after me and when I was ten, before we went up to the final year of primary school, I remember the head teacher coming in and telling us, Youre doing so well with Mrs Thorogood, shes going to teach you next year too.
'Everyone cheered but I was in the corner with tears in my eyes because my father had decided to take me out of a school where I was thriving and send me to his old all-boys public school a year early.
It was a disaster, a terrible decision. I ended up in all kinds of trouble as a teenager and dropped out of school after the lower sixth form. But because of that I went to college to do media studies and drama, and if I hadnt done that I wouldnt have done comedy and I wouldnt be where I am now.
If I hadnt done Jonathan Creek, I wouldnt have been asked to do adverts for the Abbey National. They were directed by John Lloyd, who created QI, and he invited me to do the pilot. And if I hadnt done that I wouldnt have met Katie backstage after a show. Everything connects back to the appalling decision my father made.
Alan gained a reputation for extreme behaviour in the past. In 2007, the worse for wear after the funeral of Jonathan Creek producer Verity Lambert, he bit a tramps ear when he was approached in the street.
His wife said in 2010, Every few years he does something that he gets in trouble for. Therell be another one, you know. Thats part of his personality.
Is that still true? Hopefully not, he laughs. I dont really go out any more so its not a problem. I do get recognised but people look up and think, Oh, its that bloke and then go back to what they were doing. I dont get mobbed. But you never know when youll encounter someone who wants something that youre unable to give. Its not all roses being recognised.
After the success of the Jonathan Creek Christmas special, will there be more? Im told that did really well, so theres obviously an appetite for it. It depends on David Renwick, the writer; hes 65 and I dont know how hes written the episodes he has, never mind any more.
He hasnt killed Creek off, though there was a moment when I was reading the Christmas special where I thought, This is it, my Victor Meldrew moment! he says, referring to the death of Renwicks other famous character.
Meanwhile its onwards with As Yet Untitled, in which Alan holds an unscripted round-table discussion with four guests.
Each episode begins untitled hence the series name but a title is chosen at the conclusion of the episode related to one of the guests anecdotes. Alan says one of the joys of it is that he gets to meet a lot of up-and-coming comedians.
There are loads of people on this series I hadnt met, like Gemma Whelan and Tom Rosenthal, and we can now go back to series one and two and think, Who can we invite back?
'So we have Katherine Ryan, Jack Dee and others. We dont just have comedians though, we have people like Melanie C who was happy to indulge us asking about the Spice Girls.
Its a great job for me so Ill keep it going for as long as possible.
Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled, Tuesdays, 10pm, Dave.
Halima Aden - the hijab-wearing model who took the fashion world by storm after making her catwalk debut at Kanye West's Yeezy show - has issued a message for Donald Trump: 'Just educate yourself.'
Since her New York Fashion Week appearance, the 19-year-old has appeared on the cover of the influential CR Fashion Book and walked for Alberta Ferretti and Max Mara in Milan.
The Somali-American, who moved to St. Cloud, Minnesota when she was six and was born in a refugee camp in Kenya, told Cosmopolitan.com the President could learn valuable lessons by speaking to people from different cultures.
New star: Halima Aden, 19, pictured left walking for Alberta Ferretti and center for Max Mara in Milan and right at Yeezy Season Five in New York, has taken the fashion world by storm
Message: The hijab-wearing model, pictured on the cover of CR Fashion Book, said Donald Trump should 'educate' himself by speaking to people from different cultures
She said: 'What I do is I always try to educate myself about my neighbors, about the people I meet. I think that's something that our president could do.
'We all have different things that make us strong and weak, but if we communicate and we really open ourselves and open our hearts, you're going to be amazed by the things that you can learn.'
She added: 'Everybody that comes from a different culture, they always [know] something that you've never thought of. Something that you could use, you know? So just educate yourself.'
Aden first rose to prominence last year as the first Miss Minnesota contestant to wear a hijab and was recently signed to major model agency IMG.
The President's controversial proposed travel ban - currently suspended - could prevent people from seven Muslim countries from traveling to the US.
In demand: Aden, who lives in St. Cloud, Minnesota, pictured with model Gigi Hadid, has been the star of the season since walking catwalk debut at Kanye West's Yeezy Season Five show
New star: Aden, pictured backstage at Max Mara in Milan, walked in two shows at the Italian fashion week and appeared on the cover of the influential CR Fashion Book
In response, Aden said she is 'proud' of America's diversity and hopes that it will continue to be a central characteristic of life in the US.
'America has always been a land of diversity, basically made up of immigrants, and that is something I want to see continued. It's something I'm proud of when people think of America.
'I want them to see the richness - how we are close together even though we all come from different creeds, different backgrounds, different religions. That's something I want to see continue,' she said.
Aden applied for the Miss Minnesota pageant after she 'stumbled upon' Miss Universe online.
She said: 'Here's a company that's been celebrating diversity of beauty for over 65 years. I wonder if I could join.'
Identity: Aden, pictured with fashion consultant Tremaine Emory, said she is 'proud' of America's diversity and hopes that it will continue to be a central feature of US life
Suggestion: Aden said she tries to 'educate myself about my neighbors' and advised the President, pictured leaving the White House on Thursday, to do the same
Aden said she is 'proud' of the positivity around her story and of her faith and that the fashion world has 'welcomed me with open arms'.
She said that designers have been 'very accepting' of her faith and of her dressing requirements.
It was Carine Roitfeld, who is editor-in-chief of CR Fashion Book and a Yeezy stylist, who put her forward to walk in the label's NYFW show.
During the show she said she was in 'disbelief' that she was able to stay true to herself and be a catwalk model.
She said West was 'super nice', adding: 'He just welcomed me to the show and was super polite. That was fun. I got to meet Kanye.'
It has been the staple of women's healthcare for years.
From the age of 21, all females in the US are advised to start getting annual Pap tests.
The painless exam - placing a Q-tip inside the woman's cervix to take a sample - is the standard way to check for cervical cancer.
However, a growing swell of research suggests this method is too outdated and non-specific to be relied on.
Experts argue America should follow the Netherlands and Australia in dropping the Pap test in favor of HPV tests, now that we know most cervical cancers are caused by the sexually-transmitted disease.
But some claim even that is not enough.
The American Cancer Society has repeatedly warned that many women seem to believe a Pap test is a one-size-fits-all exam that catches any kind of cancer.
However, they warn 'silent killer' ovarian cancer is rarely spotted with anything other than a transvaginal ultrasound or a CA-125 blood test.
Experts warn the Pap test is too flawed to be a woman's only test for 'silent killer' cancers
WHAT IS THE PAP TEST?
The Pap test is named after Greek-American Dr Georges Papanicolaou, who developed the revolutionary method of scraping cells from the cervix in the 40s.
In his method, he would smear them on a glass slide and then examine them under a microscope to detect pre-cancerous changes.
In recent years the method changed, so it is now put in a test tube, meaning the name technically changed from 'smear' to 'test'.
The test was the first exam that could be used for screening women to prevent cervical cancer.
And since routine tests were introduced, the number of cases of cervical cancer plummeted.
Unlike many other cancers, cervical cancer does not develop suddenly.
Instead, the cells change gradually over many months or, in some cases, several years.
Therefore, detection at an early stage allows the abnormal cells to be destroyed relatively easily, before they have a chance to develop into full-blown cancer.
The Pap test is a painless exam - placing a Q-tip inside the cervix to take a sample - to check for cervical cancer. It was invented in the 40s, when we didn't know what caused cervical cancer
WHY DO SOME SAY IT IS FLAWED?
1. IT CANNOT DETECT OVARIAN CANCER - BUT MANY THINK IT CAN
The American Cancer Society noted that it is difficult 'for even the most skilled practitioner' to identify ovarian tumors with a Pap test - either in the early or late stages.
Usually, a gynecologist will also do a pelvic exam as well, feeling for enlarged organs.
However, the ACS warns that this method is also flawed, saying it is rare that doctors could feel ovarian tumors by hand.
The only sure-fire way of catching ovarian cancer is by using one of two tests: a transvaginal ultrasound and a CA-125 blood test.
Those tests are two of the best options out there - though neither is completely accurate.
The transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves to look at the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries through an ultrasound wand.
That test can find a mass in the ovary - though it cannot tell if it is cancer or not.
In contrast, the second test detects levels of the protein CA-125 in the blood.
For women with ovarian cancers, their CA-125 levels are often high.
But, other conditions can also cause CA-125 levels to be abnormal - and not every woman with ovarian cancer has high levels.
That's why regular transvaginal ultrasounds and CA-125 tests are not recommended.
2. THE TEST IS BASICALLY A WAY OF LOOKING FOR HPV
When the Pap was invented, nobody knew what caused cervical cancer.
The test was a general way of detecting 'abnormal' cells - i.e.: cells that don't look exactly as they should.
Today, we know that 91 percent of those changes - leading to cervical cancer - are caused by HPV.
HPV is also the reason for 75 percent of vagina cancers and 69 percent of vulva cancers.
As a result, we now know that the Pap's purpose is almost always to detect HPV.
Indeed, current research indicates that the only way you can by 97 percent sure of catching cervical cancer (the highest probability) is by teaming the Pap with an HPV test.
HPV is a common virus that causes warts, including genital warts. Usually, the immune system clears the infection, but persistent infection with certain strains of HPV leads to cervical cancer in some women.
Today, we know that 91 percent of those changes - leading to cervical cancer - are caused by HPV. In other words, the purpose of the Pap test (pictured) is almost always to detect HPV
SHOULD WE SWAP IT FOR A COMBO OF HPV TESTS AND ULTRASOUNDS?
1. THE ARGUMENT FOR HPV TESTING AS THE STANDARD METHOD
HPV tests are more accurate than Pap tests at testing for the DNA of HPV.
Some tests specifically focus on HPV types 16 and 18 - the ones most associated with cancer.
Those who back the switch emphasize the savings it would earn patients: they could skip the co-pay of both Pap smears and HPV tests. They could also do the test at home.
Indeed, there is a global push to switch from Pap tests to HPV tests as the standard check for cancer.
Holland made the change last year, and Australia is switching by the end of 2017.
2. THE ARGUMENT AGAINST
In America, there is still push-back, given the high rates of false-positives.
Eighty percent of sexually-active Americans will contract HPV at some point in their lives. But in most cases, the virus goes away on its own and doesn't develop into cancer.
In 2011, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force said that after reviewing all the clinical data, they would recommend against HPV tests, alone or in combination with smear tests in women under 30.
They said that screening for HPV causes more false positive cancer results than the smear alone.
However, they said there wasn't enough evidence to decide whether the HPV tests did more harm than good in women over 30.
The panel, which is highly influential in primary care practice in America, said women should just have a smear test once every three years between the ages of 21 and 65.
The scientists must weigh the potential benefits of early detection of disease through screenings against the potential harms to healthy patients who may be subjected unnecessarily to more invasive procedures or side-effects.
EXPLAINED: THE 5 GYNECOLOGICAL CANCERS AND HOW TO FIND THEM
1. ENDOMETRIAL CANCER
Endometrial cancer, also called uterine or womb cancer, starts in the lining of the uterus.
It can spread, infecting the cervix, the outer lining of the womb, the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the vagina, and the vulva.
Most sufferers will experience some tell-tale symptoms before the cancer develops, allowing it to be caught early.
However, unlike cervical cancer, standard tests (like pelvic exams and Pap tests) do not easily detect endometrial cancer.
The majority of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer (about 90 percent) have abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Some may experience a change in their periods (from heavy to light or vice versa), bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause, or discharge tinted with blood.
These symptoms are not specific to cancer, but doctors advised seeing an ob-gyn to be safe.
Meanwhile some women may not see blood in their discharge, but rather a change in consistency. This should also be a warning sign, the American Cancer Society warns.
Other symptoms include pelvic pain and inexplicably losing weight.
As with many other cancers, if you feel a lump or mass, you should see your doctor.
Women most at-risk of contracting endometrial cancer are over 55, in late menopause, have never given birth, are infertile, are obese, have diabetes, have high blood pressure, or are on estrogen treatment or tamoxifen therapy.
An ultrasound is the most common test to detect endometrial cancer.
The next step is an endometrial biopsy, removing a piece of endometrium using a suction tube, to be tested.
In the case of a cancer diagnosis, CT, MRI and PET scans can then be used to see whether the disease has spread.
Finally blood tests can be carried out to detect whether a woman has a decreased blood count, since the cancer can cause anemia.
Treatments include surgery to remove the uterus, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
2. OVARIAN CANCER
Ovarian cancer is where the disease originates from the cells in and around the ovary.
The ovaries form part of a woman's reproductive system, storing her supply of eggs.
Each month an egg is released into the womb, ready for fertilization.
Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer death in women and accounts for more deaths in the UK than all of the other gynecological cancers combined.
If diagnosed at an early stage, the outcome is good.
However, because some of the symptoms of ovarian cancer are similar to those seen in more common conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose.
As a result, vast swathes of patients are not diagnosed until the disease has spread, increasing the likelihood they will succumb to the disease.
In addition, it is important to note, most tumors found on the ovaries are not cancerous, but benign.
One in five ovarian masses found in women still having their periods are cancerous.
That figure rises in post-menopausal women to one in every two tumors.
In the majority of cases, ovarian cancer affects women over the age of 50.
The key early signs and symptoms to be aware of are:
These symptoms should raise concerns if they are frequent (happen more than 12 times a month), are persistent and new, not normal for you.
It is likely that these symptoms may not be a sign of ovarian cancer, but many patients experience the symptoms in the early stages of their disease.
Approximately one in every two women will develop ovarian cancer in their lifetime.
Though the cause of the disease isn't yet properly understood, age and having a family history of ovarian cancer, increases a woman's risk.
Two in 10 cases are thought to be linked to the inherited 'faulty' BRCA gene.
Carriers of the faulty BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, like Hollywood star Angelina Jolie, are also at greater risk of developing breast cancer.
3. CERVICAL CANCER
Cancer of the cervix - the neck of the womb - affects women of all ages, but is most common in those aged 30 to 45 years old.
WHY ARE MORE BLACK WOMEN DYING FROM CERVICAL CANCER? Black women are more susceptible to fibroids - benign masses in the uterus - which can cause cancerous symptoms. But research suggests that black women are more likely to have their cervical cancer caught at a later stage of diagnosis than white women. They may also receive different treatment compared to white women. One study found that black women had 50 percent lower odds of receiving surgery than white women. They also had 50 percent higher odds of receiving radiation compared to white women with the same stage and insurance. For most, the standard test of checking for fibroids is a pelvic exam, in which the gynecologist feels their patient's pelvis to see if anything feels enlarged. However that will only work if the fibroids have grown towards the front of the uterus. Anything towards the back will require an ultrasound - something not routinely offered. Advertisement
The disease is largely preventable, with screening programs where women have regular smear tests, detecting pre-cancerous cell, which indicate an increased risk of cancer if they remain untreated.
In the future the HPV vaccine will prevent most forms of cervical cancer, but until a time when all women have had the vaccination, screening will remain to play a vitally important role.
As with all gynecological cancers, the sooner cervical cancer is diagnosed, the better a woman's chances of survival.
Important early symptoms are:
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by the common, sexually transmitted infection, the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Most women will have HPV at some point in their lives, though for most the virus clears up of its own accord.
But, where the virus doesn't go away, there is a risk of abnormal cells developing, which could morph into cancer over time.
To lessen the risk of developing the disease
Even if you have had the HPV vaccine and have a normal cervical smear result, it is vital you raise symptoms with a doctor.
4. VULVAL CANCER
Vulvar cancer is one of the rarest forms of the disease, with around 1,000 cases diagnosed in the UK each year.
Eighty per cent of those are in women aged over 60, while the pre-cancerous form of the condition - vulval intrepithelial neoplasia - tends to be diagnosed in those aged 30 to 50.
Symptoms of vulval cancer include:
While all these symptoms can also be a sign of other, more common conditions, it is vital to see your GP if any persist.
The HPV vaccine is among the greatest protection available to the disease, as many forms of vulval cancer are triggered by the virus.
5. VAGINAL CANCER
Vaginal cancer is a very rare form of the disease, with just 250 cases diagnosed in the UK each year, according to The Eve Appeal.
As with all gynecological cancers, it is most common in older women, in this case those over 60, while it is extremely rare in those aged under 40.
A condition called vaginal intrepithelial neoplasia, where there are changes to the cells in the lining of the vagina, can mean you're at increased risk of the disease.
The condition only triggers cancer where it is not treated.
Cervical screening smear tests can help detect any changes in the cells in the lining of the woman.
And the HPV vaccine offers protection as vaginal cancer can be caused by the HPV virus.
Early symptoms of vaginal cancer are:
As many as one in two women with vaginal cancer will have no symptoms at all.
The latest female star of Naked and Afraid has been forced to quit to seek medical help after a swarm of flies left her with a full-body rash.
Anastasia Ashley, an internationally-recognized professional surfer, joined YouTube star Cory Williams to try to make it for 14 days in the middle of nowhere in Belize.
However, Daily Mail Online can reveal the 30-year-old blonde has had to tap out of Discovery's show eight days early - and this photo shows why.
The normally bronzed beauty was left with redness and itchy bumps head-to-toe.
According to producers, she was attacked by sand flies, being bitten for 12 hours straight from 6pm to 6am on the sixth day.
'The flies had hatched and latched on to her,' Ashley's agent Drew told Daily Mail Online.
'She had to tap out. She was told not to scratch, but she was so itchy.'
Sand fly bites can be particularly alarming since sand flies are the biggest spreaders of leishmaniasis, which can affect the internal organs.
If not treated, severe types of visceral leishmaniasis can be fatal.
Anastasia Ashley, 30, (pictured) made it six days on the island in Naked and Afraid - but she had to tap out of Discovery's show early due to sand fly bites (right), which can be deadly
If left without treatment, the bites may go away, but will likely leave ugly scars - one of Ashley's motivations to throw in the towel.
In the US, patients will normally be prescribed hydrocortisone cream.
Ashley has been using antibiotic oils and camaline lotion in a bid to stop the bites developing into a worse infection like leishmaniasis, according to her agent.
There are two forms of leishmaniasis - one manageable, one potentially deadly.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis merely causes skin sores, which appear within days, and are treatable with cream.
However, visceral leishmaniasis can affects several internal organs including the spleen, liver, and bone marrow.
Ominously, many people have a silent infection of visceral leishmaniasis without any symptoms or signs for months.
Eventually, symptoms may start to appear such as fever, weight loss, swelling of the spleen and liver, and abnormal blood tests.
Sufferers may also have low blood counts, including a low red blood cell count, a low white blood cell count, and a low platelet count.
The most common way people get infected is through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sand flies.
REVEALED: DANGERS OF SAND FLY BITES Sand fly bites can be particularly alarming since sand flies are the biggest spreaders of leishmaniasis, which can affect the internal organs. If not treated, severe types of visceral leishmaniasis can be fatal. LESS SEVERE FORM Cutaneous leishmaniasis merely causes skin sores, which appear within days, and are treatable with cream. MORE SEVERE FORM Visceral leishmaniasis can affects several internal organs including the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. Ominously, many people have a silent infection of visceral leishmaniasis without any symptoms or signs for months. Eventually, symptoms may start to appear such as fever, weight loss, swelling of the spleen and liver, and abnormal blood tests. Sufferers may also have low blood counts, including a low red blood cell count, a low white blood cell count, and a low platelet count. HOW YOU GET LEISHMANIASIS The most common way people get infected is through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sand flies. They suck blood from a person, usually during the night. They rarely bite during the day unless you brush up against them. Scarily, they are silent, small (the third of the size of a mosquito), and at first the bites may not be noticeable. Advertisement
They suck blood from a person, usually during the night. They rarely bite during the day unless you brush up against them.
Scarily, they are silent, small (the third of the size of a mosquito), and at first the bites may not be noticeable.
The CDC urges anyone with a severe case of sand fly bites to seek medical attention, which Anastasia conceded to do.
The rash was a first for Anastasia, who is used to being outdoors and on the beach.
She started competitively surfing from the age of seven, and was professionally surfing by the age of 14.
Having won over 200 events including the prestigious Women's Pipeline Pro, she is currently one of the most followed surfers on social media with over 3 million followers and fans across her channels.
Anastasia's appearance marked a shift in the show's format.
Normally, participants have to engage in a 'black out' during filming, meaning they cannot tell anyone anything about their experience until it airs.
This time, the two survivalists were allowed to document their intense Naked and Afraid experience on social media.
It meant fans of the series could catch snippets of highlights and low pointsevery day in real time.
They will emerge from the challenge on the day of the premiere of Naked and Afraid: Season 7 on Sunday, March 5.
To follow their experiences with Discovery, go to Naked and Afraid on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or on discovery.com.
Drug firms have lowered the prices of 14 key cancer medicines after the NHS threatened to stop paying for them.
The discounts mean the drugs will continue to be available to patients, the rationing watchdog NICE revealed yesterday.
The treatments faced being withdrawn from use after a review of the Cancer Drugs Fund, which was set up to provide medicines not routinely prescribed by the NHS, found that they cost too much.
Drugs giants including Bayer, Novartis and Pfizer have lowered the costs of 14 key cancer medicines after the NHS threatened to stop paying for them following a review of costs
But pharmaceutical giants including Bayer, Novartis and Pfizer responded to the threat by lowering the price of all the medications, allowing NICE to move them from the temporary fund into routine NHS use. Experts asked last night why it took the threat of action for the firms to cut the prices of leukaemia drugs and those for cancer of the breast, kidney, lung, prostate and bowel.
Professor Karl Claxton, a health economist at the University of York, said: The discounts the manufacturers have offered demonstrate that price negotiation is only possible when we are not willing to say yes at any price.
Others pointed out that NICE is still reviewing the Cancer Drugs Fund, and ten other drugs have yet to be assessed including some that are not likely to meet cost-effectiveness guidelines.
Drugs still in the balance include Kadcyla a revolutionary breast cancer drug costing 90,000 per patient, which NICE has already indicated is unlikely to be approved. Sir Andrew Dillon, chief executive of NICE, had warned drugs companies to change their pricing behaviour.
When its review began last May, he threatened to cut cancer therapies unless firms dropped their prices, adding: They have to recognise the economic circumstances the NHS is in and do their bit.
Last night, he said: The system is working well. Companies are co-operating well with our reviews and the good news for patients is that more cancer drugs than ever are being recommended for routine use. As drugs move off the Cancer Drugs Fund, we free up funding for new drugs coming down the pipeline, so patients will have faster access to promising drugs and the NHS makes the most of its resources.
The discounts remain confidential, but the new fees are thought to be significantly less than normal list prices, which can amount to tens of thousands of pounds per patient.
The treatments faced being withdrawn from use after a review of the Cancer Drugs Fund, which was set up to provide medicines not routinely prescribed by the NHS, found that they cost too much (stock image)
Professor Paul Workman, chief executive of the Institute of Cancer Research in London, accused pharmaceutical companies of charging the highest prices the NHS could pay.
He said the discounts were great news, but insisted Britains drug-development system had to be overhauled, adding: Even with these discounts, there are fundamental problems with the way cancer drugs are priced. We need to make sure drugs are priced at a level that makes cancer treatments affordable for the NHS, rather than companies pricing drugs at what the market can bear.
Baroness Delyth Morgan, of the charity Breast Cancer Now, said the way NICE vets drugs could delay the latest cancer treatment. She added: There are major flaws in the NICE process which may block new and more novel drugs. This system is not fit for purpose in assessing modern drugs.
The trade names of the drugs involved are Afinitor, Halaven, Xalkori, Alimta, Xofigo, Zytiga, Jevtana, Xtandi, Erbitux, Vectibix, Bosulif, Sprycel, Iclusig and Imbruvica.
The dairy industry is waging war on almond, soy and rice alternatives - claiming they are 'masquerading as the real thing'.
The feud dates back to 2000, when the National Milk Producers Federation first petitioned the FDA to protect the word 'milk' from vegan outsiders.
However, it reignited this week as it becomes increasingly likely that food companies will have federal backing to use the words 'milk' and 'sausage' - as long as they make clear the ingredients.
But do consumers care? Here, we analyze whether protected status for milk could help it survive the anti-dairy health fad - and why nutritionists prefer alternatives.
Is almondmilk milk? Dairy farmers claim it isn't, as they fight to maintain their identity
WHY SHOULD DAIRY MILK BE THE ONLY MILK?
Though soy milk and almond milk have become commonplace terms, milk's standard of identity says it is obtained by the 'complete milking of one or more healthy cows.'
That's a point the dairy industry is now emphasizing, with the support of lawmakers who last month introduced legislation calling for the FDA to enforce the guidelines.
'Mammals produce milk, plants don't,' said Jim Mulhern, president of the National Milk Producers Federation.
The federation says it has been trying to get the FDA to enforce the standard since at least 2000, and that the lack of enforcement has led to a proliferation of imitators playing 'fast and loose' with dairy terms.
Those products often refer to themselves as 'soymilk' or 'almondmilk,' single words that the dairy industry says is a way to get around the guidelines for 'milk.'
The Plant Based Foods Association, which represents companies like Tofurky and milk alternatives, says standards of identity were created to prevent companies from passing off cheaper ingredients on customers.
But the group says that's not what soy, almond and rice milk makers are trying to do.
'Those companies are charging more money, because consumers are gravitating toward them,' said Michele Simon, the group's executive director.
The FDA says it takes action 'in accordance with public health priorities and agency resources.'
WHY ALTERNATIVE MILK IS SO POPULAR
Indeed, most nutritionists recommend nut-based alternatives to dairy milk for patients who have gastrointestinal or skin issues.
While regular milk has health benefits, such as a high calcium content, it can cause problems for some people.
Scores of studies have found the only reason we are able to digest dairy is because we trained ourselves to.
In fact, despite our persistence, 75 percent of the world's population struggles to properly digest lactose - the main sugar found in milk.
That is because their small intestine does not produce enough of the lactose enzyme needed to break down the sugars.
The condition - an intolerance, not an allergy - is particularly common in Africa and Asia, where dairy consumption is the lowest in the world.
75 percent of the world's population struggles to properly digest lactose - the main sugar found in milk
Intriguingly, those two continents also have some of the lowest rates of the bone condition osteoporosis, suggesting dairy may not be the be-all-and-end-all for bone health.
Weighing in on the debate, London-based nutritionist Cassandra Barnes last year gave us her verdict of the different milks.
'As well as being a good source of calcium, protein, and fat-soluble vitamins, [dairy] milk and other dairy foods has been found to reduce the risk of diabetes and obesity,' she said.
'However, many studies have only found this beneficial effect with full-fat milk, and not skimmed or semi-skimmed milk. But there are also several good arguments against drinking milk.
'Many people may have a negative reaction to milk and other dairy products, with symptoms including digestive problems, or excessive mucus production. Being prone to earaches or a 'snotty nose' can be an indication that you have a problem with dairy.
'It may also cause particular problems for those with skin conditions such as eczema, and other immune system imbalances including autoimmune conditions.
'In summary, I'd say that for some people it can be fine to drink milk; for others, it's best kept to a minimum or avoided. It's very individual, and depends on the person's general state of health and symptoms that may indicate they don't tolerate it very well.
'For those who do drink milk, I'd advise choosing organic, and going for full-fat milk and not skimmed or semi-skimmed.'
OTHER FOOD FIGHTS
EDIBLE, BUT EGGLESS
The little-known Association for Dressing and Sauces showed its might in a 2014 mayonnaise melee.
The group repeatedly complained to the FDA that an eggless spread was calling itself Just Mayo, noting that under the federal rules mayonnaise is defined as having eggs.
Hellmann's mayonnaise maker Unilever, one of the association's members, had sued Just Mayo's maker citing the same issue. That lawsuit was dropped after the company faced blowback from the vegan spread's supporters.
The Association for Dressing and Sauces repeatedly complained to the FDA that an eggless spread couldn't be called Just Mayo because mayonnaise is defined as having eggs
The dressings and sauces group wasn't the only one upset by Just Mayo's name. The CEO of the American Egg Board, which represents the egg industry, also tried unsuccessfully to get a consultant to stop the sale of Just Mayo at Whole Foods.
The revelations led to an investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Soon after, the egg industry group's CEO retired earlier than expected.
As for Just Mayo, the company worked out an agreement with the FDA to keep its name - with some strategic tweaks to its label to make clear it does not contain eggs.
STRAINING FOR YOGURT
It was a milk protein concentrate at issue in a lawsuit over Yoplait Greek.
That ingredient isn't listed in the FDA's standard of identity for yogurt. What's more, the suit said General Mills relied on the ingredient to thicken its yogurt, rather than straining it the way other Greek yogurts are made.
'Not only was it not Greek yogurt, it wasn't yogurt at all,' said Brian Gudmundson, the Minnesota lawyer who filed the suit.
The case was ultimately dismissed by the judge, who said the matter would be better handled by the FDA. Gudmundson said he reached out to the agency afterward, but nothing came of it.
It was a milk protein concentrate at issue in a lawsuit over Yoplait Greek
Yoplait Greek's maker, General Mills, says it has since made recipe changes to its yogurts and it no longer uses milk protein concentrate in Yoplait Greek. The company had also noted in legal filings that the FDA said during a seminar that milk protein concentrate could be used in yogurt.
In 2002, the presence of milk protein concentrate in Kraft Singles was also called out in a warning letter from the FDA, which noted the ingredient was not listed as an ingredient in the definition for 'pasteurized process cheese food.' Kraft now labels the Singles as a 'pasteurized prepared cheese product.'
WYNGZ, NOT WINGS
'Wyngz' scored a high-profile TV appearance not long after DiGiorno launched frozen meals with pizza and the boneless chicken pieces in 2011.
The Colbert Show called the spelling out as a 'government-mandated' way to get around the fact that they're not made of wing meat.
'Colbert cited a page on the USDA's website that said the odd spelling could be used for a product that is 'in the shape of a wing or a bite-size appetizer type product,' but not made entirely from wing meat.
The Colbert Show called out the spelling of Wyngz as a 'government-mandated' way to get around the fact that they're not made of wing meat
'No other misspellings are permitted,' the website says.
The story behind the USDA declaration remains a bit of a mystery. DiGiorno owner Nestle said it wanted to call the boneless chicken pieces 'wings,' since it believes people understand that 'boneless wings' are not whole wings. The company says the USDA instead proposed 'wyngz.'
Nestle proudly noted that it believes it was the first, and perhaps only, company to approach the USDA with an issue that led to the 'wyngz' determination.
The USDA says a company had made the request to use the word to describe a product, and did not elaborate.
'COUNTERFEIT BUTTER'
It's not just soy and almond milk that have drawn the ire of the dairy industry. In 1886, dairy producers supported a federal tax on margarine, which was dubbed 'counterfeit butter' by representative William Price of Wisconsin, a major dairy state. In 1902, that law was amended to increase the tax on margarine dyed to look like butter, says Ai Hisano, a business historian at the Harvard Business School.
Some states went so far as to prohibit the sale of dyed margarine, which was naturally white. Hence a vintage ad that declares Parkay margarine 'Golden Yellow and ready to spread!' - with an asterisk noting, 'in 26 states .'
To get around state bans, Hisano said margarine makers provided yellow solution capsules so people could dye the margarine themselves.
Fast forward to today, and food identity more broadly remains a polarizing topic.
Groups such as the dairy federation say federal standards of identity ensure people get what they expect from products labeled with terms such as 'milk.'
Animal rights advocates who support plant-based alternatives question whether the standards of identity remain relevant.
Matt Penzer, an attorney for the Humane Society of the United States, said some standards are outdated, but are being used by the established players to fend off competition and innovation.
Parents try everything to try and get their children into the best universities.
But new research suggests there's no need to hire a private tutor to boost their youngster's studies.
Instead, sending them horse-riding could make them more intelligent and perform better at school, scientists claim.
While on the saddle, vibrations made by the animal activate the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory.
Sending children horse-riding could make them more intelligent and perform better at school, scientists have claimed
Known as the sympathetic nervous system, the effects were found to improve children's cognitive ability in the Japanese study.
Researchers from the Tokyo University of Agriculture examined the effects of horseback riding on the performance of children.
They were asked to complete simple response and mathematical tests directly before and after taking part in the activity.
While their heart rates were also measured in response to the movements created by the horses.
They found that riding on some horses greatly improved the ability of the children to perform behavioural tasks.
However, less of an effect was noted on their results when solving mathematical problems, according to the experts.
While on the saddle, vibrations made by the animal activate the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory
These results mean that the act of horse-riding could improve cognitive abilities in children, the study published in Frontiers in Public Health suggested.
These are brain-based skills of which an improvement can lead to enhanced learning, memory and problem-solving.
Study author Professor Mitsuaki Ohta said: 'One important characteristic of the horse steps is that they produce three-dimensional accelerations.
'The movement of the horse's pelvis may provide motor and sensory inputs to the human body and in this study.
'I believe some of the differences among the rider's performances might be due to these accelerations.'
The ongoing Jat agitation to claim reservation under Other Backward Classes status reached a decisive phase in the national Capital on Thursday after community leaders threatened to block all entry points into Delhi and cut essential supplies from March 20 if their demands are not met.
The protesting leaders at Jantar Mantar have already submitted a memorandum of seven demands to the Haryana government after showing the same to the Centre.
While addressing a big gathering of people from the community, supporting the cause, Yashpal Malik, the president of All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti said 'BJP-led central government and the Haryana government have cheated the community on the pretext of false promises.'
The protesting leaders at Jantar Mantar have already submitted a memorandum of seven demands to the Haryana government
In a veiled threat, he reminded that the Jats had blocked water supply in the past in Haryana, and said this time they have decided to choke Delhi from all corners.
'We have decided to start a nation-wide agitation from March 20 to bring people from Jat community, under OBC category, in both state and centre level together.
'Men from UP, Haryana, Rajasthan and other five states have been asked to reach Delhi on their own vehicles and if police of respective states stop them, they will take halt and start blocking roads then and there,' Malik said.
He added that Jats, who will go for non-violence, will reach Delhi in large numbers soon. The Jats have significant presence in western UP.
Women participating in Jat protest for OBC status and reservations at Jassia village (file pic)
They will start travelling with adequate rationing on NH 58 (connecting Delhi and Haridwar) and NH24 (connecting Delhi and Lucknow).
Similarly, people from Palwal to Agra and beyond will travel through Yamuna expressway and NH2 to reach Delhi. The people of Haryana will take NH 1 (GT Road) from Sonepat side and NH 8 for the people lives in southern Haryana and Rajasthan.
They were supported by followers of Baba Ram Pal.
'As a part of the strategy, women have been asked to stay in their native places and take part in peaceful agitation that's going on since the last 33 days,' Malik said.
'The Haryana government had agreed to bring five communities, including the Jats, under OBC category, after a meeting on March 18.
However, the decision was ruled out in Punjab and Haryana High Courts due to Haryana government's deliberate prosecution,' Malik said.
All the endangered monitor lizards in the reptile enclosure of Delhi Zoo are believed to have died
The spate animal deaths at Delhi zoo have taken a new twist, after a fresh complaint to senior officials of Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) raised the concern of the illegal capture of animals and negligence by zoo officials.
The complainant has alleged that he is being framed after he reported these issues to seniors.
The recent blame game escalated after all four monitor lizards died inside the zoo.
This is not the first incident of deaths as the Delhi zoo is under severe criticism due to deaths of Cape buffalo, Ostrich, Giraffe, spotted deer, gibbon langur, King Cobra, Zebra in recent few months.
After Mail Today began inquiring about the curious case of the appearance and death of the monitor lizards in the reptile enclosure of Delhi Zoo, officials blamed its ranger for negligence causing death of reptiles.
On the contrary, documents available with the MoEF shows that the zoo ranger apprised senior officials of the ministry about the 'illegal' capture of capture of five monitor lizards by zoo officials ahead of their deaths.
In the complaint addressed to Inspector General of Forests (Wildlife), accessed by Mail Today, the zoo ranger has furnished documentary evidence before the ministry officials about the manipulation by the zoo officials.
He has also requested ministry officials to conduct an investigation from an outside agency into the deaths of animal inside the zoo.
He claims that head keeper and other ground level staff has admitted that they had captured two monitor lizards from inside the zoo and other three were illegally brought in from outside.
Sources claim that all the giraffes have allegedly died inside Delhi zoo, and the entire enclosure is now empty and unused. (picture for representation)
He mentions that he received threats to suppress the matter or he will end up losing his job. 'I was afraid and thought that it could be a conspiracy to frame me since the zoo officials were not happy with my work.
'I have refused to join their illegal activities in the zoo in the past. They forced me to suppress the death of the animals and asked me not to record the same in the beat registers,' he wrote in the letter stating that zoo officials have issued number of letters and memorandums to implicate him falsely in this matter.
Senior officials of the Delhi zoo were contacted but they refused to comment.
Zoo curator and spokesperson Riyaz Khan had earlier refused to comment to Mail Today on any matter related to deaths of animals.
The zoo officials have not confirmed the death of Cape buffalo, who allegedly died to lack of treatment
However, he now alleges that animals were illegally brought in as the zoo was to submit its quarterly inventory report, hence the animals were brought from outside to match it with the inventory.
'It is being alleged that the animals died due to disturbance during hibernation by me.
'I did not disturb any animals out of hibernation since all the five monitor lizards were brought from outside and there is no question of their disturbance,' he says in his defense.
If Tuesday was the Left's 'march for azaadi', with students and professors targeting the ABVP and 'slamming violence on DU campus', Thursday saw the Right wing students respond with their own protest march on the streets nearby Delhi University.
Amidst a heavy police presence, the ABVP students marched in demand of a strong action against 'anti-national elements invading the varsity's campus.'
The ABVP protest, which started from and ended at the Arts Faculty passed through Vishwavidyalaya metro station, Khalsa College, Patel Chest Institute, Maurice Nagar and Ramjas College, drawing huge numbers on the way.
Amidst a heavy police presence, the ABVP students marched in demand of a strong action against 'anti-national elements invading the varsity's campus'
'Anti-national slogans raised on the campus are wrong. Priority has to be given to nationalism over academics now.
'The anti-national JNU virus should not creep into Delhi University's campus,' Sunil Ambedkar, national organising secretary of ABVP told Mail Today.
He was supported by Saket Bahuguna, ABVP leader and media coordinator, who demanded 'termination of communism virus from spreading into the university premises'.
'We will not allow anti-national slogans on the campus or anyone who will glorify Maoists waging a war against India.
'It is not just the February-22 incident which is condemned by ABVP.
'ABVP workers will always object to anti-national elements on the campus. We're proud of fighting a national fight,' Bahuguna said.
ABVP activists during a protest against Delhi Police at Police headquarters in New Delhi
'Why are questions about communist violence not asked?
'While ABVP invites a vicharo ki ladayi (fight of opinions), it strictly objects to any thought which will divide India,' he added.
Even the students protesting along with ABVP volunteers in the Thursday march told Mail Today that they are in full support of the protest by the Right-wing group.
As said a student Gaurav Gera: 'We are against anything on the campus that divides the nation.'
Added Delhi University Students Union president, Amit Tanwar, 'It is a protest by the students of Ramjas College against those who have labelled our Indian army rapists.'
Bhagat Singh was an Indian socialist nationalist whose acts of dramatic violence against the British in India, hunger strike in jail, and execution at age 23, made him a folk hero of the Indian independence movement
The ABVP leaders feared that any delay in action from Delhi University against an incident like Ramjas College, can possibly trigger an outpouring of students on the streets which will be difficult to control.
'Freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh and Swami Vivekananda are ideals, not Umar Khalid, who is the prime accused in the protests that shook JNU.
'It is time Delhi University chose its ideals,' Bahuguna saidin his speech.
Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu has said the act of raising azaadi slogans is treason. 'If this is not treason then I don't know what is,' the minister said, opening a debate on what defines sedition.
He also said the government is planning to change the existing sedition law - first introduced in the 1870s - to make it more stringent.
As the Ramjas College protest took a fresh turn with some videos allegedly showing students raising 'anti-national' slogans, the senior minister in the Narendra Modi cabinet said, 'The slogan of azaadi is followed by violence'.
Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu has said the act of raising azaadi slogans is treason
Sedition in India
Drafted by the infamous Thomas Macaulay, India's sedition law was introduced in the 1870s, to deal with 'increasing Wahabi activities between 1863 and 1870 that posed a challenge to the colonial government' of the age. In short, Section 124a in The Indian Penal Code makes 'words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the government' punishable by law, a fine and a maximum punishment of life imprisonment. In the 19th and early 20th Centuries, the law was mainly used against Indian political leaders seeking independence from British rule. Mahatma Gandhi, who was frequently charged with sedition by the British, famously said the law was 'designed to suppress the liberty of the citizen'. In 1951, prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru described the law as 'highly objectionable and obnoxious'. He too had be imprisoned many times for violating the law. In 1962, the Supreme Court imposed limits on the use of the law, making incitement to violence a necessary condition. Advertisement
When asked about the government moving towards bringing a bill to amend the sedition law, Naidu said the Law ministry in consultation with the Home ministry will bring a bill.
Is is alarming that a senior Union minister is casually talking about plans to change the sedition law.
It hints at the government's plans to make itself more authoritarian by denying basic rights to express freely, especially on college campuses.
The current sedition law allows people belonging to a broad spectrum - be it Hardik Patel or Arundhati Roy - to be tried.
Seditious? Kanhaiya Kumar, former President, Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union
The next move, it is feared, may be about a law that would make even criticising the government a seditious act.
The minister said, 'People raising slogans are taking to arms in Kashmir, in Chhattisgarh, in Jharkhand.
'They believe power comes from the barrel of the gun... Sponsors of terrorism (also) believe that they can get azaadi (freedom) by the use of force.'
The minister said, 'such acts on university campuses are trying to create a divisive mindset, and we have the right to condemn it'.
On the ideological battle with the Leftists, Naidu said, 'Your ideology has been rejected by people... they are now frustrated and making ridiculous statement.'
Left leader Sitaram Yechury had earlier wondered 'Why should people accept one standardised definition of nationalism?'
Naidu said Hindutva is a way of life, and said 'Hindu' is the broad, cultural identity of this nation and one cannot deny it.
The minister said he does not approve of BJP MP Pratap Simha drawing comparisons between 20-year-old Delhi University student Gurmehar Kaur and underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, and called the martyr's daughter 'the daughter of India'.
He, however, said his party joined the Ramjas debate when 'others jumped in to support Umar Khalid'.
'The Congress and the Left joined the proponents of azaadi and that is when the functionaries of the ruling party joined the debate,' Naidu said.
The minister said the 20-year-old must be allowed to focus on her studies, and the larger debate is about azaadi and separatism.
Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt during the promotion of the movie Badrinath Ki Dulhania in Mumbai
A joint team of the Mumbai Police and the UP STF on Thursday arrested one Sandeep Sahu, the alleged gang member' of jailed mafia don Babloo Srivastava, for seeking extortion money from film director Mahesh Bhatt.
Sahu was arrested in Lucknow from the Ashaiana locality on Thursday afternoon.
SSP STF Amit Pathak said, 'On Wednesday, we received a call from senior officials of the Mumbai Police regarding an extortion call to Mahesh Bhatt.
'The caller demanded Rs 50 lakh and also threatened to kill Alia Bhatt and her mother Soni Razdan, in case his demand was turned down.'
Following the information, a joint team of UP STF and Mumbai Police laid a trap and successfully nabbed the accused.
'He posed to be a close associate of Bablu Srivastava. However, during interrogation he revealed that does not know him and made the extortion plan go get rid of his debts', Pathak further informed.
Bollywood filmmakers Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt visit Hansraj College
According to Pathak, Sahu - a class-8 dropout - had been working at garment shops, collection agencies before setting up his mind to start his own business.
'In 2015, he took a loan of Rs 7 lakh from his relatives to start his own shop. However, the business incurred heavy losses.
Having failed to return the money, he moved to Mumbai in October 2016,' Pathak told the media.
Police said that legal formalities to take Sahu to Mumbai on a transit remand are being carried out in the court.
Indian Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt poses for a photograph
Approximately 1,300 suspected militants were arrested in a sweep of hideouts in Pakistan's largest province of Punjab, police have confirmed.
The two-week operation comes against the backdrop of provincial law minister Rana Sanaullah's opposition to these groups being designated by Pakistan as terrorist organisations.
Rana Sanaullah also embraced some sectarian leaders whose groups have been accused of fomenting violence against minority Islamic sects, once again raising questions concerning his commitment to ridding Punjab of militants.
Arrested suspects and recovered weapons display for media by Pakistan paramilitary forces following a search operation in Shah Kass, an area of Pakistani Khyber tribal region along Afghan border
Two police officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the operations, said another 36 militants died in shootouts with police and in paramilitary operations since the sweep began last month.
In an interview with The Associated Press, however, Sanaullah questioned the label of terrorist for anti-Indian militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, which has resurfaced as Jamaat ud Daawa.
Provincial law minister Rana Sanaullah called into question why these groups are being designated by Pakistan as terrorist organisations
Last month, Pakistan placed Hafiz Saeed, a declared terrorist with a U.S.-imposed $10 million bounty on his head, under house arrest, yet Sanaullah questioned allegations against Saeed, who is connected mostly to militant attacks in Indian-held Kashmir, a Himalayan region whose ownership is contested by both Pakistan and India and claimed by both in its entirety.
'They are related to Kashmir. They feel Indian brutality in Kashmir is unacceptable,' he said of Saeed and his followers, adding that Pakistan's courts have twice freed Saeed saying there was no evidence of his involvement in terrorism activities.
About 1,300 suspected militants were arrested in a sweep of hideouts in Pakistan's largest province of Punjab, police said. Provincial law minister said police were searching out areas in Punjab dominated by ethnic Pashtuns and unregistered Afghan refugees because some of the worst attacks carried out in the provincial capital of Lahore involved residents of the tribal areas.
Saeed is among India's most wanted and is accused of masterminding attacks inside India and Indian-held Kashmir.
'Why is the world not concerned about India's violence in Kashmir?' Sanaullah asked. 'There is no evidence of Saeed's involved in state terrorism.'
In an interview, Saeed's spokesman Yahya Mujahed denied Saeed's affiliation with the outlawed Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Analysts and critics say the Punjab provincial government is sheltering sectarian and jihadi groups headquartered in its most populous province, while using the crackdown to target ethnic Pashtuns from tribal regions that border Afghanistan.
Sanaullah said police were searching out areas in Punjab dominated by ethnic Pashtuns and unregistered Afghan refugees because some of the worst attacks carried out in the provincial capital of Lahore involved residents of the tribal areas.
He cited last year's Easter attack in Lahore that killed more than 75 people, including minority Christians, saying 11 men arrested in connection with the suicide attack were from Pakistan's Mohmand and Bajour tribal regions.
Pakistani Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah
'They are from FATA (tribal areas) so we (have decided that we should) do action against those areas where people from Bajour and Mohmand are and where Afghan refugees who are not registered are residing,' Sanaullah said denying his government is employing profiling in its crackdown that targets ethnic Pashtuns.
A multitude of militant groups of varying size operate in Pakistan, many with violent sectarian leanings that have allowed the Sunni Islamic State group to gain a foothold despite repeated denials by the country's politicians.
IS took responsibility for last month's brutal attack on a Sufi shrine in southern Sindh province that killed 88 people and injured scores more.
Punjab in Pakistan has the most religious/extremist/outlawed groups according to the Islamabad-based Center for Research and Security Studies
'Ironically, Punjab tops all other Pakistani territories in terms of religious/extremist/outlawed groups density; as many as 107 of the 240 or so socio-politically lethal groups are headquartered in the province, with 71 in Lahore and around alone, including the one that is an eye-sore for Indians,' said Imtiaz Gul, executive director of the Islamabad-based Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS).
He was referring to Hafiz Saeed's Lashkar-e-Taiba, which has been resurrected as Jamaat-ud-Daawa,.
'Out of this, 148 are sectarian outfits while 24 are jihadi organizations, while 12 outfits claim to work for the revival of an Islamic (caliphate) as their objective,' which is the aim of the Islamic State group, Gul said in a blog published this week on the CRSS site.
The US and Soviet Union had their Cold War from the mid-to-late 20th century, and now, many years later, India now finds itself fighting a Cold Code War with its nosy neighbours China and Pakistan.
In a bid to enhance its combat capabilities in the virtual domain, the defence ministry is working towards establishing a new cyber agency to tackle attempts by Chinese and Pakistani hackers to break into its systems and networks.
'The tri-services integrated defence staff (IDS) is coming up with a unit to tackle the cyber warfare domain and it will be staffed with personnel from all the three services,' senior government sources told Mail Today.
The head of the unit will report to the chief of integrated defence staff Lt Gen Satish Dua (pictured) who heads the organisation at present
The IDS is a tri-services organisation that works directly under the defence ministry but has officers and men from the army, navy as well as air force, and is responsible for tasks and projects involving the assets and men from all three services.
'The forces have already started pooling their resources in the cyber domain under the new agency, which would be headed by a major general-rank officer.
'The organisation will have both offensive and defensive capabilities in cyber warfare,' said the sources.
The development comes against the backdrop of around 22,000 pages of data purportedly related to submarines that a French government-owned company was building for the Indian navy being leaked to the media last year.
The organisation will have both offensive and defensive capabilities in cyber warfare
There have been thousands of online attacks on various government websites and systems including defence-related ones in recent years, with fingers often pointing towards China and Pakistan.
Until recently the army, navy and air force have their own separate cells dealing with cyber issues and they have also developed individual networks for safe communication and data exchange.
The information networks created by the forces are state of the art and are capable of detecting any violation at centralised locations within a few microseconds.
'If anybody puts in a pen drive in a computer of the military network, our men sitting in Delhi and other centralised locations can detect it within no time and prevent any leakage or attack immediately,' said the sources.
'This step of creating a new cyber agency, which would be a precursor to a cyber command, is in the right direction.
'Now the focus should be on creating infrastructure for manufacturing totally indigenous information and communication technology equipment,' said information warfare expert Pavithran Rajan.
There have been thousands of online attacks on various government websites and systems including defence-related ones in recent years
To test its capabilities, the new agency has also carried out its first cyber warfare exercise under which Indian forces carried out attacks on their own networks to check for loopholes and steps required to strengthen the system, the sources informed.
'The forces deduced that cyber should be the first agency to be raised for dealing with the increasing instances of attacks on military networks and systems,' they said.
The command of the new agency would be on rotational basis for the three services, which means that if it is first headed by an army officer, he would be succeeded by navy and air force officers.
The head of the unit would report to the chief of integrated defence staff Lt Gen Satish Dua who heads the organisation at present.
The information networks created by the forces are state of the art and are capable of detecting any violation at centralised locations within a few microseconds
The government had deferred the demand for creation of new commands for cyber, special forces and space under senior lieutenant general rank officers and asked the forces to first create capabilities for such commands.
The decision to put off the creation of new commands was taken soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi told senior military commanders that while global powers were reducing the number of their personnel, Indian forces were continuously demanding expansion in size.
The armed forces had initiated the demand for creation of three new commands during the UPA government where the three services had decided to take one command each for themselves, setting up three army commander- equivalent positions.
The country has only two operational tri-services commands including the strategically located Andaman and Nicobar command in Port Blair, which will now likely have an officer from the navy as its head permanently.
The other tri-services organisation is the strategic forces command, which looks after the nuclear arsenal including the Agni-series missiles for the nuclear command authority headed by the Prime Minister.
The government is now considering a four-star officer appointment in the form of permanent chairman for the chiefs of staff committee.
All tri-services issues are expected to go to him once the office is created.
IAF to get hack-proof laptops to prevent online espionage
After relentless attacks by Chinese and Pakistani hackers to break into military personnel's computers, the Indian Air Force is planning to provide hack-proof laptops to its personnel which would help them prevent cases of cyber espionage.
The IAF is taking this step after it was observed that personal computers or laptops used for surfing internet and official assignments, are getting hacked by outsiders as it is relatively very easy to break into such systems.
'The IAF is planning to provide laptops to its personnel for official work which will be internet-disabled to do away with the scope of getting cyber-attacked,' sources told Mail Today.
The Indian Air Force is planning to provide hack-proof laptops to its personnel which would help them prevent cases of cyber espionage
The laptops would be connected with the Air Force Network (AFNET) which is used for exchange of data and information across the country for which it has laid down a special optical fibre network, they said.
The IAF is moving ahead with this plan at a time when there have been cases where personal computers of officers have been hacked and official information has also been stolen from them.
'All IAF personnel have been told that they should be careful when they are using internet on personal systemthey would be taken to task if any official document or information is leaked or stolen in the process.
'They should not use personal laptops for official work or for storing any work-related data,' the sources said.
It would be difficult for the personnel to use the laptops when on leave as the system would connect with the AFNET which works only inside or near air force bases.
The Air Force has been taking a number of steps to prevent hackers from stealing classified information and has been the first among the services to arm its personnel with smartphones to protect them from offensives.
These are special smart phones that the IAF is in the process of providing to all its 1.75 lakh personnel, which are hack-proof as they too, can be used only with AFNET.
The phones are equipped with facilities of video calling, but it does not have any other apps like other general smartphones.
The phones also provide end-to-end connectivity at all times and at all air bases -from the world's highest battlefield Siachen Glacier to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Three days after registration of the case, Delhi Police have failed to identify the two suspects who allegedly threatened to rape and kill Delhi University student Gurmehar Kaur, following her controversial tweet.
According to senior police officials close to the investigation, the display pictures on the suspects' account might have been changed - which is why the team is unable to identify the two suspects, who had threatened Kaur on social networking sites.
They claim the accounts could also have been deactivated after the matter was brought to their attention.
SFI activists shout slogan during their protest march against RSS and ABVP over their alleged the attack on Education, Democracy and Social Justice
On Friday crime branch officials contacted Gurmehar.
'The officials have been sending her emails and she is reverting all the queries. She has not been contacted over phone. So far, the information provided by her seems to be fruitful,' special commissioner of police (operations), Dependra Pathak told Mail Today.
Kaur, the daughter of Captain Mandeep Singh, and a student of BA first year of Lady Sri Ram college has deactivated her Facebook account.
Senior officials assured that deactivation of her account won't hamper the case.
In the initial probe, it has been learnt that her twitter handle and Facebook account are linked.
Whatever she used to tweet, was shared on her Facebook wall too.
Kaur, the daughter of Captain Mandeep Singh, and a student of BA first year of Lady Sri Ram college has deactivated her Facebook account after being targeted by trolls
When one such tweet got her into threats, Kaur approached the DCW with screenshots of the threats.
Based on that, the Delhi Police registered a case by the Cyber Cell under IPC sections 354A (Sexual harassment), 506 (criminal intimidation) and 67 of IT act (transmitting obscene material in electronic form).
On Thursday, the crime branch has written an official letter to the service provider regarding the access of details of the two Facebook users who had threatened her.
A senior official said they are waiting for a reply from the Facebook authority that is expected to come in next few weeks.
Kaur had started the campaign 'I am not afraid of ABVP', following recent cases of campus violence.
However, as the controversy grew, she withdrew it and left for Jalandhar to be with her family, requesting that she should be left alone.
Ram Babu had to be carried by his relatives due to the shortage of wheelchairs at the Delhi Hospital
Ram Babu was suffering from jaundice and was in no condition to walk. But his family could not find a stretcher or wheelchair at GB Pant Hospital, one of Delhi's biggest super-speciality healthcare centres.
So, relatives had to alternately carry and drag the patient to the third-floor gastroenterology department.
'This is my third visit to the hospital and I have not received a single stretcher or a wheelchair for easy commuting to the doctor,' said his wife, Sheela.
'It is very painful to reach the doctor.'
The super-speciality OPD for neurology, gastroenterology, cardiology and psychiatry caters to at least 2,000 patients every day, but has just one wheelchair and two trolleys to transport invalid patients.
Suleeman Ahmed carried his ailing son in his arms to the neurology OPD on the second floor.
'For the OPD patients, the hospital has provided only one stretcher and a wheelchair, despite knowing that there is a flood of critically ill patients.
'Not only me, all patients are facing a tough time here,' he told Mail Today.
India's public health system is underfunded and overburdened as it struggles to meet the needs of more than 1.2 billion people, about 40 per cent of whom live below the poverty line.
Another GB Pant Hospital patient being carried by relatives to see the doctor
Fifty-year-old Ramesh Kumar too was hauled by his relatives to the doctor's chamber.
His son, Vijay, says he is getting used to the inconvenience.
'This hospital fails to provide even basic facility to patients,' he said.
Requesting anonymity, a senior doctor said due to acute shortage of wheelchairs and trolleys, a serious patient has to crawl to the concerned department and this can even prove fatal.
'Despite being informed about the scarcity, hospital authorities have turned a blind eye to the problem,' he said.
Mail Today had in November reported how officials at the state-run hospital were asking patients and their relatives to wait their turn for an MRI scan till 2019 as demand was piling up with the lone scanner lying inoperative.
Patients allege the institute is also not well equipped with the necessary supplies of medicine.
GB Pant hospital in Central Delhi is a super-speciality OPD for neurology, gastroenterology, cardiology and psychiatry caters to at least 2,000 patients every day
A hospital source said, 'A patient is getting one out of five medicines listed in his prescription.
He or she is asked to buy other drugs from the market.' The hospital's medical superintendent Dr Dharmender Gupta refused to speak to Mail Today.
He asked the reporter to contact hospital director Dr Rajiv Chawla. Chawla too didn't respond to calls and messages to his mobile phone.
Meanwhile, the Delhi government has tied up with 41 private hospitals to address the issue of delay.
Heath minister Satyendar Jain said the government would soon announce the scheme, which would also ease the burden on the government's health infrastructure.
The AAP government said it has joined hands with 41 NABH-accredited hospitals for the purpose.
The free facility will be provided to patients if the waiting period for surgery in government hospitals exceeds one month.
These surgeries, including heart bypass, kidney stone removal, cataract, would be provided free of charge under the scheme.
The government will reimburse the hospitals at CGHS rates for the complete treatment including pre-surgery consultation, surgery, medicines, food and hospital stay.
Dutch anti-Islam lawmaker Geert Wilders has returned to the campaign trail, days after cancelling appearances amid security concerns.
The far-right politician said he was 'looking forward' to meeting voters ahead of the country's March 15 election.
In a press release on Wednesday, Wilders said that he was returning to the campaign as 'voters want to meet him and he wants to meet them.'
Geert Wilders visited the town of Volendam today after returning to the campaign trail. He cancelled appearances last Thursday amid security concerns
Geert Wilders raises his glass in a cafe during a visit to the town of Volendam. He is attempt to claw back support after his party lost its lead in the polls
Adding the security risks 'will be reduced to the minimum', he said 'I'm looking forward to it.'
Today he was spotted out-and-abou in the town on Volendam, in the north of the country, where he stopped in a local cafe for a drink.
Last Thursday, Wilders suspended open campaigning in the wake of an alleged leak of sensitive information by a security official from the team giving him round-the-clock protection.
Today's visit to Volendam was the first time Wilders has been seen in public after the arrest the one of his security agents from the Dutch security service DBB.
Last Thursday, Wilders suspended open campaigning in the wake of an alleged leak of sensitive information by a security official on his team, but today he was spotted sipping a beverage in a cafe in Volendam
This was the first time Wilders has been seen in public after the arrest the one of his security agents from the Dutch security service DBB
Wilders, whose populist Party for Freedom (PVV) is slipping in the polls, still remains on track to make big gains.
He has been ahead in the polls since mid-November, but the centre-right VVD, led by prime minister Mark Rutte, has now overtaken Wilders PVV.
Wilders, a Eurosceptic, anti-immigration fan of Trump, has dubbed the March 15 parliamentary election the start of a 'Patriotic Spring' in Europe, where French and German voters go to the polls in May and September.
His main rival Rutte is banking on a strengthening economic recovery to restore popularity lost during the austerity years of 2012 to 2014.
Geert Wilders gestures while in a cafe in the town of Volendam. Although his party is no longer in the lead, he still remains on track to make big gains
Wilders, a Eurosceptic, anti-immigration fan of Trump, has dubbed the March 15 parliamentary election the start of a 'Patriotic Spring' in Europe
Wilders has said he will hand out flyers in three Dutch cities before the election, and will also be taking part in debates and giving interviews in Dutch media.
He will face Rutte head-to-head in a televised debate on March 13.
The VVD is now projected to take 23-27 seats, which will guarantee its place in a governing coalition, and all but one party have ruled out sharing power with Wilders, whose policies are seen by many as offensive and sometimes unconstitutional.
If Wilders' PVV party finishes first but is unable to form a government, Rutte will be left trying to forge a centrist coalition with several parties that share little more than opposition to Wilders.
Wilders has said he will hand out flyers in three Dutch cities before the election, and will also be taking part in debates and giving interviews in Dutch media
In December, Wilders, who has gained notoriety for his trademark shock of platinum blond hair, was convicted of inciting discrimination for leading supporters in a chant that they wanted 'Fewer! Fewer! Fewer!' Moroccans in the country, but judges levied no punishment.
The 53-year-old's own family members have spoken out against him, with his brother Paul saying that the Freedom Party leader is scapegoating Muslims to achieve power.
His older sibling said Wilders was playing a dangerous game that could lead to violence on the streets of Holland, and claimed that the politician's mother, who was born in Indonesia and moved to Holland as a child, did not support him.
Wilders' brother said his mother is embarrassed by him, and opposed to his divisive policies that have prompted uproar across the continent, and would not be voting for her firebrand son.
Jaxon Buell was born with just 20 percent of his brain and most of his skull missing. He was blue and black and the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck.
Doctors had no idea what had caused such a huge defect but warned his parents that he would survive for hours maybe a few days at the most.
Today, Jaxon is two and a half years old and is stubbornly opposing his bleak prognosis.
For a child who was never expected to walk, talk, hear or see, he is defying expectations and is learning to grab and hold things. He can even tell his parents: I love you.
Jaxon was diagnosed with a rare brain malformation called Microhydranencephaly. Little is known about the malformation, except that most babies who are born with it only live a few days. Doctors still dont know what caused it in Jaxon.
His father Brandon told DailyMail.com: There are difficult days. There are days that are very challenging. There are days that break our hearts to watch him go through a very difficult day, but what has encouraged us is truly watching him respond back to us and its just truly amazing.
Jaxon Buell was born with a rare brain malformation called Microhydranencephaly, which meant that he was born with only 20 percent of his brain and missing most of his skull
Jaxon's mom Brittany, 28, left, stays home to care for Jaxon because he still needs 24-hour care while dad Brandon, 31, right, works at a Christian radio station near their home in North Carolina
The three of us together, theres been a lot of things for us to go through, but were still here, were still together, were still experiencing joy with our son and I think thats the most important part.
Doctors first realized something was wrong with Jaxon's development just a few weeks into the pregnancy. The scans showed that Jaxon's brain wasn't growing normally, so doctors recommended an abortion. They didn't think Jaxon would survive.
However, Brandon and Brittany refused to terminate because of their devout Christian faith and Jaxon continues to outlive all the doctors' predictions today.
The unfortunately reality for the young family from North Carolina is that Jaxon may not live long. But their strong Christian faith helps them move forward every day and enjoy the time they have with their son.
Brittany said: It wont be the last time I see him. When I see him again, hell be in full form and hell be 100% Jaxon and be able to run up to me and give me a hug.
Doctors told Jaxon's parents that if he lived he probably wouldn't be able to walk, talk, hear or see. Today, Jaxon is developing his motor skills, he can see and hear and even say a few words
Brandon and Brittany adore Jaxon. Brandon said: 'He deserves the best from us as his parents. And thats what we strive to do every single day no matter what
So it doesnt really strike a nerve. Maybe every now and then Ill think too deeply into it and Ill get a little emotional, but we just treat him like a typical child. We give him everything that we can. We play with him like a typical baby and honestly, I dont think about it often because Ive already mentally prepared myself for that.
Itll happen and hes not really showing any signs of going anywhere anytime soon. So when the time comes, well cross that bridge when we get there.
Jaxon has about eight doctors and specialists and goes to both physical and occupational therapy. He is practicing grabbing and holding things and he has to be stretched frequently because his brain is signaling to his muscles to contract
The Buells have shared Jaxon's story on social media but as a result have found themselves the target of hateful comments and death threats. But with remarkable strength they brush off the threats and focus on what is important: supporting their son.
Jaxon has about eight different doctors and specialists. He goes to physical therapy once a week and occupational therapy every three months, but practices those therapies at home every day.
He is learning to grab and hold things in his hand and because his brain is signaling for his muscles to contract, he has to be stretched frequently.
Brittany, 28, stays home with Jaxon every day, working him through his different therapies and keeping him on a consistent routine with his food, medicine and day-to-day development.
We have good days and we have bad days, she said. Some days hes just not in the mood. Hes teething right now and that upsets him.
Maybe one day well have a bad day, well just snuggle all day and watch the TV. But other days we try to keep him active and we try to treat him like a typically developing child. So its really busy but he enjoys every minute of it.
Lately part of his routine is getting a bath on a regular basis because hes a little bit older now. He really lights up in the bathtub. I can barely get him washed before hes ready to go swimming, Brittany laughed.
Of course I hold him because he cant swim on his own, but I only hold his head. He kind of floats there and he uses his little arms and legs to kick around in the water and he really enjoys it.
Brandon, left, and Brittany, right, are devout Christians and their strong faith helps them through the difficult days. And even though they know Jaxon will most likely pass away before they do, they don't believe that will be the end
Brittany said: It wont be the last time I see him. When I see him again, hell be in full form and hell be 100% Jaxon and be able to run up to me and give me a hug'
WHAT CAUSES THE RARE DISEASE? Microhydranencephaly is a rare and severe abnormality of brain development. Doctors rarely know what causes the malformation, though some genetic testing can be done. 1 in 4,859 babies in the US are born with the condition each year, but most die soon after birth. The rare disease can be possibly inherited by a recessive gene, though in cases like Jaxon's, doctors still don't what the cause is. One neurologist has a theory that Jaxon's brain was developing normally, but a few weeks into the pregnancy, the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck, blocking oxygen from getting to the brain. The scans didn't show the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck, so doctors didn't realize it until after Jaxon was born. That theory isn't confirmed and the Buells have come to the conclusion that they may never know what caused the malformation in Jaxon. Advertisement
Brittany rarely has the opportunity to leave the house while her husband is at work because abrupt noises that many of us take for granted can put him into a seizure.
She explained: Theres a lot of things that he has a hard time tolerating outside of the house like grocery shopping, loud noises, the slamming of the shopping cart. If Im outside of the house and a motorcycle goes by all of these abrupt noises will bring him into a seizure, so a lot of times I just dont leave the house...
'However, when we are here and if he is having a good day, well go around and walk around the neighborhood so its not too difficult.
But on the harder days, its nice when Brandon, 31, gets home from his job at a local Christian radio station giving Brittany the chance to run errands and get out of the house while Brandon takes over.
Brandon said: Ill come home from work and the first thing Ill do is I will put my bags down and Ill instantly go grab him, snuggle with him, talk to him about the day. And thats not just spending time with my son, thats also giving my wife a much needed and well deserved break.
Thats just honestly part of our daily routine, part of our life. Hes our only child its all that we know. Its normal for us. And we love every minute of it, even if its completely exhausting, we still love it because he brings us so much joy.
As Jaxon is developing, he can say 'momma', 'addy' (for daddy) and even 'I love you'. He's even gotten to the point where he recognizes his parents and some of his favorite toys - all with only 20 percent of his brain
Jaxon has always smiled a lot, but now that hes older, he says words like momma and addy (for daddy). He even says I love you to his parents.
Sometimes its extremely clear, other times its just syllables, Brandon said. Hes showing us that he knows us. He communicating with us in his own way.
Jaxon is even starting to recognize his favorite toys.
Recently Brittany put Jaxon in front of his toys and he recognized his favorite a hard-plastic green turtle that lights up when the buttons on its shell are pressed.
He actually grinned and gave it a hug, Brittany said. He grinned so big and gave it a huge hug and was pressing the buttons immediately.
One of Jaxon's favorite toys is his plastic turtle, pictured here. Recently his parents put Jaxon in front of his toys and Jaxon recognized the turtle, smiled at it and gave it a hug
Jaxon is also improving his arm movements, reaching and grabbing for things.
Brandon said: With everything hes up against and with the brain hes actually missing, the fact that hes able to do those things just blows us away.
Brittany added: He definitely surprises us by the minute.
It took doctors a year and six incorrect diagnoses before they finally determined Jaxon had Microhydranencephaly.
Though Microhydranencephaly can sometimes be inherited by a recessive gene, but there is no evidence that Jaxon inherited it. During Brittanys pregnancy, she, Brandon and Jaxon were all tested for it, but the results came back negative.
They are currently waiting on another, deeper genetic test to see if there are any indicators for the disease that are harder to find, but those results will take much longer to come back.
Doctors know very little about Microhydranencephaly and they are all still shocked he has lived this long. For the Buells that just means that every day is a gift. Brandon and Brittany know they will most likely outlive their son, but that doesn't make a difference to them, Brandon said.
The longer were blessed to be with Jaxon, the longer were blessed to have him and to hold him, the closer we get with him, the more that we love him and the more that bond is strengthened that means that that moment will be that much harder to withstand, but we dont talk about that very often.
In fact, we hardly discuss that because we already know it. No doctor has to re-tell us that. We know more than anybody else could ever imagine, the realization of our situation, but it does not change a thing It does not change at all how we view our life, how we view our family, how we view our beliefs and how much we love Jaxon because he deserves the best from us as his parents. And thats what we strive to do every single day no matter what.
When doctors realized that Jaxon's brain wasn't fully developing a few weeks into the pregnancy, they suggested an abortion because it was unlikely that Jaxon would live long if he survived the pregnancy. But because of their strong faith, the Buells refused to terminate
He added: If we were going to lose Jaxon, then there was really nothing we could do anyway, so why not choose joy. Why not just choose to celebrate his life no matter how long we are blessed to have Jaxon?
Brandon and Brittany started The Jaxon Strong Foundation in March last year as a way for Jaxons life to give back to others.
We believe Jaxon was created for a purpose, Brandon said. His life certainly has value and a purpose, so we built the foundation around that.
The foundation raises funds and awareness for neurological research, advocacy for people with disabilities and pro-life organizations. And in January the foundation donated to three organizations that each follow those areas of focus.
In September, the Buells also had a book published called Dont Blink, to help celebrate Jaxons life and to share his story with more people.
Brandon said: It gives background to Brittany and I, it gives background to the pregnancy and the diagnosis we first received and our decision and shortly after Jaxon was born and to be honest with you, Jaxon changes daily so the book is a great perspective on the beginning of our journey, but it certainly is not the end of our journey whatsoever.
Last year Brandon and Brittany started a foundation in Jaxon's name to raise money for three different causes that are important to their family and to Jaxon's life story. The Jaxon Strong Foundation raises money for neurological research, advocacy for people with disabilities and pro-life organizations
The Buells have also shared Jaxon's story on social media to give hope to others and while the majority of the responses they get have been positive, there have also been negative comments including hate mail, rumors and even some death threats
Along with the publicity, the Buells have also seen negativity, including hate mail and rumors about their family. Theyve even received some death threats people saying they plan to go to the Buells home in Florida, where they lived before North Carolina, to kill the family.
But Brandon and Brittany arent phased by the hatred. They laugh it off as much as they can and refuse to respond.
Their hatred towards us has only caused us to have that much more conviction that were doing the right thing, Brandon said. We must be doing something right if they hate everything we stand for and they want to try and stifle anything were trying to do.
But as a family of faith, we just delete, we block those people. We dont respond in kind. And honestly, we pray for them because all our familys trying to do is do something positive. I mean, thats why we wrote a book. Thats why we started a foundation.
Despite the minor negativity that they get, the Buells have one goal in mind: to care for Jaxon and give him the best life possible
The Buells believe that Jaxons story is about inspiration and encouragement to others, which is why they share his story so publicly.
Honestly, were just so proud of Jaxon, Brandon said. Hes our son and we love him like any parent should love their child regardless of any obstacle, any challenging disability. Were just proud of him. Were trying to do the best for him, give him the best that he deserves.
And anyone that finds out about Jaxon, his life and his story, through the book, through the foundation, through any interview we do, through any speaking engagement I might do, its about advocating for his life, and that his life can benefit the next person.
Ultimately, we believe Jaxons life and story is about believing in life and believing in inspiration.
The Buells wrote a book about their experiences called Don't Blink and started a not-for-profit called The Jaxon Strong Foundation that raises money for neurological research, advocacy for people with disabilities and pro-life organizations.
The luxury flat where a rival of Vladimir Putin plotted to bring down the Kremlin before being murdered allegedly on the president's orders is on sale for 1.1million.
The Moscow penthouse is where Putin foe Boris Nemtsov wrote a damning dossier on Kremlin corruption before he was shot dead in an alleged contract killing in the Russian capital.
Nemtsov, 55, was walking back to the flat with his young lover, 25-year-old Ukrainian model Anna Duritskaya when he was shot from behind in a political assassination.
The former deputy premier used his flat in Moscow to enjoy trysts with Ms Duritskaya.
For sale: The luxury Moscow apartment where murdered Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, 55, plotted to bring down Vladimir Putin is on the market for 1.1million
Luxury bolthole: The luxurious two bedroom flat, where Nemtsov penned a dossier on alleged Kremlin corruption, is being sold by Irina Koroleva, his former secretary and partner
Love nest: the penthouse, pictured, is where Nemtsov had sex with his lover, 25-year-old Ukranian model Anna Duritskaya. A collection of erotic photographs of Ms Duritskaya in lingerie were found at the flat by murder detectives following his murder in February 2015
Lover: Ms Duritskaya, pictured, was walking back to the flat with the former Russian deputy premier Nemtsov when he was gunned down in the street outside the Kremlin. Nemtsov supporter Alfred Kokh this week claimed that only Putin could have given the order to kill him
Political ambition: Nemtsov, pictured with his daughter Sofia and former partner Ms Koroleva, was planning to stand against Putin in the 2018 elections
Gunned down: Nemtsov lies dead in the street outside the Kremlin in Moscow after being shot in the head in what has been described as a political contract killing. Five men from Chechnya are on trial over the murder but Russian state investigators are yet to identify the mastermind
Five Chechen men are on trial for the February 2015 murder, but Russian state investigators have failed to identify who masterminded the shocking killing.
A former colleague of Nemtsov's, Alfred Kokh this week claimed that only Putin could have given the order to kill the politician who was planning to stand in the 2018 election against the strongman.
Kokh, who served as a deputy premier under ex-president Boris Yeltsin, claimed on Facebook that Putin was 'the customer of Nemtsov's murder', as he had done with the London killing of dissident Alexander Litvinenko, who was poisoned by polonium.
'Putin ordered Nemtsov's murder,' he claimed, arguing that he feared the politician could become a viable alternative candidate in the 2018 presidential election.
The Kremlin has denied any role in his death.
It was said that Nemtsov was using the flat, a short distance from where he was gunned down, to write an a dossier to try to bring down Putin, which angered the President's inner circle.
Pied-a-terre: Nemtsov had been walking back to the flat, pictured, with Ms Duritskaya when he was killed. He bought the apartment together 13 years ago but spent most of his time at his countryside with Ms Koroleva
Dossier: It is in this study where Nemtsov was believed to have been writing a dossier into alleged corruption at the Kremlin to harm the reputation of his political foe, Putin
Views of the city: Estate agency pictures inside the Moscow apartment show the bathroom and main bedroom which has views over the spires and domes of the Kremlin
Capital residence: A Russian newspaper commented that Nemtsov lived quite ascetically - no frills in the interior and all the furniture is quite old, it said
Estate agency pictures inside the Moscow apartment show the bathroom and main bedroom which has views over the spires and domes of the Kremlin.
It was at the flat where a collection of erotic photographs of Ms Duritskaya wearing lingerie were found by police.
These were eventually leaked to the Russian media, along with a version of events - later discredited - that she could have been a plant by Ukrainian secret services, which was behind his death.
The two bedroom flat is being sold by Irina Koroleva, Nemtsov's former secretary and partner.
'We bought it 13 years ago, and the interiors are also from those times,' Ms Koroleva told newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda.
'The apartment was used very little... because we lived in the countryside. Nemtsov lived quite ascetically - no frills in the interior and all the furniture is quite old,' commented the newspaper.
Young girlfriend: Ms Duritskaya was with the Russia political heavyweight when he was gunned down. She was given a phone by a passing snowplough driver to call police. Ms Duritskaya has refused to give evidence at his murder trial because she remains traumatised
Accusation: Defendant Gubashev, who offered no evidence as to why he linked her with Nemtsov's murder, said: 'It is clear that Duritskaya knew perfectly where to take Nemtsov at a certain time'
Trial: In October five men went on trial in a military court in Moscow for carrying out the 'contract killing' for around 208,000. Pictured: Nemtsov's girlfriend Ms Duritskaya
Conpiracy claims: Anzor Gubashev, One of the five men on trial for murder, alleged that Ms Duritskaya, pictured, was involved in Nemtsov's death. He told the court: 'It is clear that Duritskaya knew perfectly where to take Nemtsov at a certain time. Everything was planned.'
Spy allegations: Gubashev claimed, with no evidence, that the gunman had shot Nemtsov in such a way as not to wound the Ms Duritskaya, who he accused of being an undercover 'agent'
'And the repair is clearly not fresh - the wallpaper and even tiles are yellowed. This is especially noticeable in contrast to the neighbouring flat, which is also offered for sale' - but at a higher price.
At the time of his death, Nemtsov was with Ms Duritskaya who has since refused to fly back to Moscow to give evidence at the murder trial in the wake of hostile media reports in Moscow based on law enforcement sources.
Nemtsov supporters fear that the trial is failing to answer key questions on whether Russian secret services was aware of the assassination, and precisely who ordered the killing.
The driver of a passing snowplough, who allowed Ms Duritskaya to use his phone to summon the emergency services, has vanished. Another witness, named Molodykh, has also disappeared.
Last October five men - including a member of an elite interior ministry unit in Chechnya - went on trial in a military court in Moscow for carrying out the contract killing for around 208,000.
'Contract hit': A supporter of Nemtsov, Alfred Kokh said the only person who could have ordered his murder is Putin. Pictured: Nemtsov with his former partner Irina
Target: Kokh, who served as a deputy premier under ex-president Boris Yeltsin, claimed on Facebook that Putin was 'the customer of Nemtsov's murder', as he had done with the London killing of dissident Alexander Litvinenko, who was poisoned by polonium. Pictured: Nemtsov
Vadim Prokhorov, the lawyer for Nemtsov's family, said: 'The investigation stopped at the level of those who carried out the murder but nothing has been done to find those who ordered it.'
The slain politician's final moments - walking over bridge which overlooks St Basil's Cathedral with lover Ms Duritskaya - were captured on CCTV and released two years ago.
The short clip purported to show the alleged killer appear moments after Mr Nemtsov and his companion walked across Great Moskvoretsky Bridge at around 11.30pm, before getting into a passing car at around midnight.
Ms Duritskaya refused to give evidence at his murder trial in November 2016, around the time her 'erotic' photos were discovered in his flat, because she was still traumatised by his killing
She gave testimony to state investigators at the time of his death before Russian authorities allowed her to return home to Ukraine.
She has rejected repeated attempts - including two subpoenas from the court in Moscow - to return to Russia to give evidence as a witness.
Accused: Defendant Anzor Gubashev, pictured, attempted to drag Ms Duritskaya into her lover's murder by claiming, with no evidence, that she was a spy. Ms Duritskaya has also faced a attempts by the Moscow media to blacken her name over Nemtsov's death
As a Ukrainian citizen in her own country, she could not forced to attend the trial.
The model has also faced a succession of attempts by the Moscow media to blacken her name over Nemtsov's death - even though there is no suggestion from Russian prosecutors that she was in any way involved and the court has heard evidence that the pair were 'in love'.
These have included innuendo she is linked to the Ukrainian secret services, yet no evidence has been produced to prove this.
A report by pro-Putin newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda cited statements by one of five defendants on trial for murder, Anzor Gubashev, who alleged that Ms Duritskaya was involved in her lover Nemtsov's death.
Gubashev, who offered no evidence, said: 'It is clear that Duritskaya knew perfectly where to take Nemtsov at a certain time. Everything was planned.'
Claiming that the killing was an SBU Ukrainian secret services plot, it suggested, without any foundation, that the gunman had shot Nemtsov in such a way as not to wound the 'agent' Ms Duritskaya.
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Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke arrived on horseback for his first day of work Thursday.
The morning after his swearing-in ceremony, the former Montana congressman and Navy SEAL joined the U.S. Park Police at their stables on the National Mall.
He rode a 17-year-old Irish sport horse named Tonto through downtown Washington to the Interior Department's headquarters. Nine park police also on horseback accompanied him.
'Secretary Zinke was proud to accept an invitation by the U.S. Park Police to stand shoulder to shoulder with their officers on his first day at Interior,' said Interior spokeswoman Heather Swift.
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke arriving for his first day of work at the Interior Department in Washington aboard Tonto, an 17-year-old Irish sport horse
New Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke greets employees after riding in on horseback with a U.S. Park Police horse mounted unit to report for his first day of work
Secretary Zinke (2nd from right) rode on horseback with a U.S. Park Police horse mounted unit
Secretary Zinke tipped his cowboy hat after riding in on horseback
Zinke and Interior Twitter accounts posted photos that showed him in a black cowboy hat astride a brown bay roan gelding that stands just over 17 hands tall, a bus and typical morning traffic in the background.
At the department, hundreds of federal workers greeted Zinke, including an Office of Indian Affairs employee from the Northern Cheyenne tribe from Montana who played an honor song on a hand drum.
While Zinke's urban horse ride is unlikely to become a daily ritual, he seems committed to preserving his image as an avid outdoorsman.
He wears a bright orange ballcap and hunting vest in the bio photo of his new @secretaryzinke Twitter account. And he has already retweeted a photo showing him and his wife at Glacier National Park in Montana.
The Interior Department oversees 400 million acres of public land, mostly in the West.
Secretary Zinke is preserving his image as an avid outdoorsman. He has already retweeted a photo showing him and his wife at Glacier National Park in Montana
Vice President Mike Pence, right, shakes hands after administering the oath of office to Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, left, in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building
Vice President Mike Pence applauds as newly sworn in Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, right, speak in the White House complex in Washington
On his first full day in office, Zinke issued an order Thursday reversing a last-minute action by the Obama administration to ban lead ammunition and fish tackle used on national wildlife refuges.
Gun-rights supporters condemned the earlier order - issued a day before Obama left office January 20 - as nakedly political. The order was intended to protect birds from lead poisoning, the Obama administration said.
Zinke, a former Montana congressman and avid hunter, said the new order would increase hunting, fishing and recreation opportunities on lands managed by Fish and Wildlife Service.
The order reverses a decision by the Obama administration to phase out use of lead ammunition and fishing tackle on wildlife refuges by 2022.
Zinke said the hunting order and another order directing agencies to identify areas where recreation and fishing can be expanded were intended to boost outdoor recreation in all its forms.
On his first full day in office, Zinke issued an order Thursday reversing a last-minute action by the Obama administration to ban lead ammunition and fish tackle
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, left, kisses his wife Lolita Hand after Vice President Mike Pence, right, administers the oath of office
'Outdoor recreation is about both our heritage and our economy,' he said in a statement. 'Between hunting, fishing, motorized recreation, camping and more, the industry generates thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in economic activity.'
Environmental groups slammed the new directive on lead ammunition, arguing that spent lead casings cause poisoning in 130 species of birds and other animals.
Switching to nontoxic ammunition should be 'a no-brainer' to save the lives of thousands of birds and other wildlife and to 'prevent hunters and their families from being exposed to toxic lead and protect our water,' said Jonathan Evans, environmental health legal director at the Arizona-based Center for Biological Diversity.
Evans called it ironic that one of the first actions by Zinke - a self-described champion of hunters and anglers - 'leads to poisoning of game and waterfowl eaten by those same hunting families.'
Video footage has emerged of a mutant piglet born in a village in China with a trunk-like nose.
The piglet was one of 20 babies born on March 1 in Bengbu, China's Anhui province.
It was born hairless with one eye and a trunk-like nose with a deformed snout. The other piglets were said to be normal and healthy.
The deformed piglet has only one eye and a trunk-like nose on the top of its head
Unfortunately the piglet did not survive after two hours the sow gave birth to 20 piglets
Mr Lin, the pig farmer told Pear in an interview that the piglet died just two hours after it was born.
It is unclear what has caused the deformity of the piglet.
Guo Baoyong, zoo president from Bengbu Zhanggongshan Park, said the piglet's genes could have mutated while the sow was mating.
The piglet has been sent to a laboratory for testing.
Unfortunately the piglet did not survive after two hours the sow gave birth to 20 piglets
A zoo president said the piglet's genes could have mutated while the sow was mating
Last year, a similar looking piglet was born with an elephant nose in Cambodia. It had fanned ears, a trunk-like nose.
The animal appears to be scrawny, limp and cannot open its eyes, with serious physical deformities.
The European Parliament has called for Americans to be made to apply for visas before visiting Europe this summer.
The decision is the climax of a long-running dispute with Washington, which refuses to grant visa-free access to people from five EU states - Poland, Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania and Cyprus.
People from the other 23 EU member states can enter using the US visa waiver programme but the State Departments Bureau of Consular Affairs says the five countries do not yet meet security entry requirements.
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Tourists on the Seine in Paris. The French capital would be one of a number of destinations which would be barred for Americans without a visa if European Parliament is successful
EU rules say there must be equal treatment for all EU citizens and the European Parliament has been raising pressure on the issue since 2014.
However, they have taken action only following the election of Donald Trump, who was openly opposed by nearly all leading European politicians.
It could be extremely expensive and counter-productive for countries like France, Italy, Greece, Britain and Ireland to impose visa restrictions on the millions of American tourists and business travelers who visit Europe each year.
Nonetheless, this week members of the European Parliament set the executive a May deadline to impose visas on Americans.
But the European Commission said it was pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the row and they are pinning their hopes on a meeting of EU and US ministers on June 15.
A Commission spokesman said: 'We will report on further progress made before the end of June and continue to work closely with both the European Parliament and the Council.'
She said they were pushing the State Department for 'full visa reciprocity'.
A crowd of protesters gathers outside of the Brooklyn Federal Courthouse as a judge hears a challenge against President Donald Trump's executive ban on travel from several Muslim countries. Now it could be Americans that face travel restrictions
Most EU countries are part of the Schengen zone that allows people to travel freely inside Europe without passport checks.
The European Parliament, by a show of hands, urged the commission to adopt restrictive measures against US citizens 'within two months' but they have little immediate power to ensure the executive complies with their demand.
Canada also imposes visa requirements on Bulgarian and Romanian citizens but says they will be lifted in December.
Trump was elected partly on a promise to strengthen America's borders, and shortly after taking office he courted controversy by imposing a ban on all immigration by citizens of seven majority-Muslim countries.
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Six children, including a nine-month-old baby, survived for eight weeks on their own in a bomb battered hovel in the Syrian city of Aleppo.
For two dreadful months, the siblings endured one of the most intense bombing raids since the six-year-long war for Syria began, as government forces supported by Russian bombing raids drove rebel forces out of the city.
They lived on a piece of bread a day and wiped their baby brother's bottom with scraps of paper from the endless mounds of rubbish outside, while eldest Mohammed, 12, drank perfume 'for its alcohol' to 'numb the pain' of their destitute life.
Alongside his younger siblings - Hanadi, ten, Ibrahim, nine, Doha, six, Zakaria, five, and and nine-month-old Yamen - the children were forced to fend for themselves after their rebel fighter father vanished and their mother was arrested as his accomplice.
'I'm not scared of living here,' said ferociously brave Mohammed who, despite his tender age, has taken his place as head of the family.
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Against the odds: Six Syrian children were forced to fend for themselves for two months in the bomb battered Syrian city of Aleppo after their father left to fight against the regime and their mother was arrested. Pictured from left to right: Mohammed, 12, Ibrahim, nine, Doha, six, Zakaria, five, nine-month-old Yamen and the only girl Hanadi, ten
Desperate: Charity workers, who found the children wrapped in soiled blankets, described how the room they shared stank of human excrement. With no nappies for the baby, they used tissues and scraps of paper to keep him clean. Five-year-old Zakaria (above) seemed particularly bewildered when rescuers picked their way through the rubble to find them
Destitute: For eight weeks, the siblings had sheltered in a single bedroom inside a destroyed building which had its roof torn off in Russian and Syrian bombing raids. They huddled under filthy covers, slept around a broken heater (above) and regularly had to stop strangers stealing what little food they had gathered
Daily life: The children showed rescue workers how they would clamber from roof to roof of the bombed out buildings to search for scrap metal to sell in exchange for food. The whereabouts of their father, a fighter for the Free Syrian Army, are unknown, while it is proving very difficult to locate their mother in prison
Survival: The siblings lived on a piece of bread a day and scavenged from the endless mounds of rubbish outside. They would exchange scrap metal for water and food from market traders. Pictured: Hanadi and her brother Ibrahim outside their 'home'
'Our home was destroyed. I don't know why my mother was arrested. I look after everyone now.'
The children, now living in the relative safety of a Syrian orphanage whose location cannot be revealed, were rescued by local Caritas workers supported by the UK's Catholic International Development Charity (CAFOD) on February 2.
Rescuers found them living in deplorable conditions - huddled underneath soiled blankets in a small room on the first floor of a half destroyed building.
The stench of urine and faeces filled the room and the stairwell was half-blocked by chunks of concrete torn from the roof in bombing raids, charity workers told MailOnline.
One Syrian rescue worker revealed how Yamen's expression always remained completely blank. 'I never saw him smile,' he said. 'I don't think he has ever seen one to copy.'
The Aleppo neighbourhood itself was devoid of electricity, heating, water, food and work - with not a single school or hospital left standing.
Harrowing photos show the children flanked by skeletal buildings pockmarked with bullets and empty, dusty streets.
The barefooted children would scour through the wreckage of fallen buildings for scraps of copper to trade for food and clean water from merchants looking to profit from the desperate situtation.
Mohammed explained: 'We eat once a day in the morning. It is usually just bread. Sometimes we get food from the charities.'
Remarkable: Baby Yamen (pictured) was just seven months old when his parents disappeared, leaving his elder siblings in charge of making sure he had enough to eat and drink. As head of the household, 12-year-old Mohammed is believed to have drunk perfume 'for its alcohol' to 'numb the pain' of their destitute life
Filthy: Surrounded by grubby mattresses, broken bicycle tyres and piles of rubbish, the children made this their home until they were rescued on February 2. Their family home was destroyed by a suspected barrel bomb attack while they were still inside, burying them under mounds of concrete
Street smart: The children had been buying food and clean water from local merchants who flooded back into the area after rebel forces were chased out by Syrian troops. Pictured: At the rescue centre with other desperate children before being sent to an orphanage
Heartbreaking: Syrian rescue workers revealed how baby Yamen's expression always remained completely blank. 'I never saw him smile,' he said. 'I don't think he has ever seen one to copy.' Pictured: Yamen was scooped up by charity workers and taken to a nearby orphanage with his siblings
Post-apocalyptic: Ibrahim, his hands encrusted with dirt, stands in the neighbourhood where the children fled after their family home had been destroyed. The area is devoid of electricity, heating, and clean, running water - and not a single school or hospital are left standing there
Past life: Hanadi, above, revealed how she and her oldest brother Mohammed had attended school before the war began, but the others had never experienced sitting in a classroom, their young lives filled only with bomb blasts and death
While Hanadi, the only girl, revealed: 'Before the war Mohammed and I went to school. The others have never been to school.
'It's scary at night here... A man comes in and steals our food. We try to block the door.'
The children had been living alone in the shell of a building since a barrel bomb destroyed their home while they were still inside, burying them in rubble.
Before the war Mohammed and I went to school... It's scary at night here. A man comes in and steals our food. We try to block the door. Hanadi, ten
'We were at home when a barrel bomb hit,' said Mohammed who, along with his siblings, was pulled from the debris by a bulldozer.
'We heard a loud bang and we were very afraid. There was a lot of rubble and smoke and it smelled like chlorine. We were rescued by neighbours and brought here.'
Charity workers had been going from house to house in Eastern Aleppo looking for those in need when they came across Mohammed walking the streets barefoot, his hair matted with dirt.
He took them to the room where his baby brother Yamen was being cradled by one of the older boys, their skin stained with dirt.
'It smelled appalling, like human waste,' said Patrick Nicholson, Director of Communications for Caritas International, said: 'You can imagine a baby without a nappy for two months... It was overwhelming.
'All the children were covered in dirt, living in this one room and there was a second room just full of rubbish.'
Horrifying: As charity workers were about to leave the children's wrecked abode, they noticed Mohammed, above, was trying to hide a bottle of perfume. He was drinking it for the alcohol,' said Patrick Nicholson of Caritas International. 'His neighbours said his parents would do it to... So he could have been copying them. And it may be that he was trying to dull the pain'
New start: CAFOD took the children to an orphanage in an undisclosed location in Syria (above), where they were bathed and clothed. Mohammed (left) was given a haircut and looks visibly relieved not to be solely responsible for caring for his family
Contrast: Before they were rescued, the charity took harrowing photos showing the Ibrahim and Hanadi standing outside wrecked buildings pockmarked with bullets and empty, dusty streets. No one seems to know where the children's mother is being held and if she is alive
New life: The siblings were taken to the orphanage where they were given food and a bath. They will stay there until a new life can be found for them and rescuers try and work out what has happened to their parents
One Syrian rescue worker revealed how the baby's expression always remained completely blank.
'I never saw him smile,' he said. 'I don't think he has ever seen one to copy.'
As they were about to leave the house with the children, charity workers noticed Mohammed was trying to hide a bottle of perfume he had secretly been drinking from.
Mr Nicholson told MailOnline. 'He was drinking it for the alcohol. It was extremely upsetting.
'His neighbours said his parents would do it to... So he could have been copying them. And it may be that he was trying to dull the pain.'
'He was incredibly brave. He got them through those two months and he was still alive, which shows he and his brothers and sisters have huge ingenuity to survive like that with absolutely no protection.
No one known what has happened to the children's parents and the rest of the family has fled to Turkey.
The whereabouts of their father, a fighter for the Free Syrian Army, are unknown, while rescue workers are not being told which prison is holding the children's mother.
Ben Keita (pictured), 18, went missing in November and was found dead in woods in Lake Stevens, north of Seattle, in January
The FBI is set to review the death of a black, Muslim teenager who was found hanged from a tree in Washington state, after the manner of death was changed from 'suicide' to 'undetermined'.
Ben Keita, 18, went missing in November and was found dead in woods in Lake Stevens, north of Seattle, in January.
The Snohomish County Medical Examiner's Office initially labeled the death a suicide. But it later determined there was not enough information to make a ruling.
FBI investigators have agreed to review the case after a request from the teenager's family, who said he had no history of depression or anxiety and seemed happy before his disappearance.
A spokeswoman for the bureau told the Daily Herald newspaper of Everett the review doesn't necessarily mean the agency will open an investigation.
Lake Stevens Police Chief John Dyer said investigators believe it was a suicide but have conferred with the FBI and are awaiting laboratory results.
'Originally the manner of death in this case was classified as suicide,' associate medical examiner Stanley Adams wrote in an autopsy report published by KUOW.
The teenager's body might have been in a 'semi-frozen' state for several weeks in the Lake Stevens area (file picture) before he was found, according to the autopsy report
Ben wanted to become a medical doctor and work as a medical examiner, according to his father. His family said he had no history of depression or anxiety
The teen's father, Ibrahima Keita (pictured), said his son wanted to become a medical doctor and work as a medical examiner
'Although at autopsy I did not see any evidence of trauma beyond the evidence of hanging, the circumstances of the very high tree branch, uncertain location of the decedent for the six weeks prior to discovery (with a report that the area where the body was found had been previously searched), and lack of any reported suicidal ideation or attempts makes a definitive classification of the manner as suicide uncertain.'
The teenager's body might have been in a 'semi-frozen' state for several weeks before he was found, according to the report.
Ben, a Running Start student allowed to begin their college education while still in high school, had stopped going to class a few weeks before he went missing, police said.
He wanted to become a medical doctor and work as a medical examiner, according to his father, Ibrahima Keita.
'Ben was a happy, young man,' the father told Q13 Fox. 'We believe that somewhere, someone must know something about this case and we urge people to come forward and contact the police.'
Candidate William Matthew Wand Addison (pictured) is a land owner, farmer and the 4th Viscount Addison
Marquess of Abergavenny, 61, - Conservative
Christopher George Charles Nevill is the Harrow educated 6th Marquess of Abergavenny. The former stockbroker and businessman who now runs his family sprawling estates, which include 3,000 acres of rolling countryside in Kent.
He said: 'I offer my hands-on experience of urban regeneration; rural diversification; insights from two terms as a district councillor; experience with charities.'
Viscount Addison, 71, - Conservative
William Matthew Wand Addison is a land owner, farmer and the 4th Viscount Addison.
He said: 'Having personally farmed dairy and arable most of my life, I am still well-connected and understand the need for support to continue in all matters connected with farming the countryside and those who live and work in rural areas after Brexit.'
Earl Alexander of Tunis, 81, - Conservative
Shane William Desmond Alexander is the 2nd Earl Alexander of Tunis who was educated at Harrow. He is the son of WWII hero Field Marshal Alexander.
He said: 'A return to Parliament would assist my initiative to forge a closer relationship between the House of Lords and the Institute of Directors, of which I have been a member since 2000.'
Lord Bethell, 50, - Conservative
James Bethell, the 5th Baron Bethell, is another Harrow alumni. He heads up the Westminster lobbying company - Westbourne Communications and has worked for the US Senate.
He said: 'As the founder of a successful company, I am in the position to hand over the reins and commit myself to supporting the Government in the House of Lords. If elected, I would bring my experience as an entrepreneur in the media industries, and in politics.'
Lord Biddulph, 57, - Conservative
Anthony Nicholas Colin Maitland Biddulph is the 5th Baron Biddulph. His family home is Makerstoun House, a 100 acre estate on the banks of the Tweed in Scotland.
He said: 'It was an honour to sit in the House and I would be happy to serve again.'
Shane William Desmond Alexander is the 2nd Earl Alexander of Tunis who was educated at Harrow. He is pictured with his wife Countess Davinia Alexander
Lord Cadman, 78, - Conservative
John Anthony Cadman is 2nd Baron Cadman and the son of a mining tycoon. He was educated at Harrow.
He said: ' Lord Lyell (Charlie) took his seat aged 21 and spent much of his time in the House loyally serving his country under various prime ministers. An engaging and interesting character, I became acquainted with him as a member of the Defence Study Group. Replacing him will be difficult.'
Lord Colgrain, 65, - Conservative
Eton educated Alastair Colin Leckie Campbell is the 4th Baron Colgrain and a former banker turned farmer.
He said: 'My areas of expertise and particular interest are employment and financial services, following 30 years in the financial executive search sector, and rural affairs, regeneration and diversification, as partner in a family farming and property business.'
Lord Darling, 72, - Crossbencher
Robert Julian Henry Darling, 3rd Baron Darling, is a surveyor and has been a prison visitor for 19 years.
He said his experience includes, 'fund-raiser for social care charity, now Big Lottery funded, working with local group of surgeries and relieving bed blocking in regional hospital.'
Lord Gainford, 92, - No party affiliation declared
The 4th Baron Gainford, George Pease, describes himself as an architect, town planner and inquiry reporter.
He said: 'I would contribute to debates and committees where my expertise and experience may be helpful, but would not otherwise attend casually.'
Eton educated Alastair Colin Leckie Campbell is the 4th Baron Colgrain and a former banker turned farmer
Lord Hampton, 52, - Crossbencher
The 7th Baron Hampton, John Humphrey Arnott Pakington, is a former professional photographer who now teaches at a comprehensive in west London.
He said: 'After 25 years working in design and photography for big agencies and freelance, with a client list of big corporates and charities, I recently retrained as a secondary school teacher and now teach in a state academy in west London. I live in east London and coach junior cricket in Hackney.'
Lord Hankey, 79, Crossbencher
The 3rd Baron Hankey, Donald Robin Alers Hankey, is the founder of APG for Architecture and Planning.
He said he has 'professional experience in east Asia, China, Middle East, north Africa, Russia, Europe and Caribbean.'
Lord Harlech, 32, Liberal Democrat
Eton educated Jasset David Cody Ormsby-Gore is the 7th Baron Harlech and has worked in the creative industries, the arts and technology services.
He said: 'I wish to enter public service in order to stand for equality and progress. To work across parties to bring prosperity for all through long-term vision and practical action. I will also bring to the job youth, passion and commitment.'
Earl of Harrowby, 66, Conservative
Eton educated Dudley Adrian Conroy Ryder, the 8th Earl of Harrowby, divides his time between his family estates, Sandon Hall in Stafford and Burnt Norton, a 17th century manor house in Gloucestershire.
He said: 'Im a Midlander; I would work to promote the Midlands and its urban regeneration.'
Viscount Hood, 59, - Crossbencher
Henry Lyttelton Alexander Hood is the 8th Viscount Hood and the Queens Lord-in-Waiting, meeting dignitaries on Her Majestys behalf.
He said: 'Issues of social policy can command attention in the House of Lords. Recent examples include Lord Markss Bill to provide rights to cohabitating couples, and Baroness Deechs Bill to limit financial claims in divorce. While my sympathies are more with the first than the second, they together demonstrate the privilege that it would be to serve in the House of Lords.'
Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos is met by the Queen's Lord-in-Waiting Viscount Hood (left)
Lord Kennet, 60, - Liberal Democrat
William Aldus Thoby Young is the grandson of 1930s health minister Hilton Young.
He said: 'If elected, I will work to fully realise benefits which include, improving economic competitiveness through science, technology and jobs and benefiting the environment and human health, addressing climate change, waste and pollution, renewables and energy security, and bio-diversity.'
Earl of Limerick, 54, - Conservative
Eton educated Edmund Christopher Pery is a trained solicitor and the former director of Deutsche Bank. He speaks French, Russian, Arabic and Wolof, a language of Senegal, the Gambia, and Mauritania, and the native language of the Wolof people.
He said he is, 'passionate about contributing lifetime experience in overseas commerce to make Brexit successful.'
Earl Lloyd-George of Dwyfor, 66, - Liberal Democrat
Eton educated David Richard Owen Lloyd George is the great-grandson of WWI Prime Minister David Lloyd-George.
He said: 'My working life started aged 19 in shipping, finishing in political risk insurance. If elected, I would undertake to be a regular attender and to devote my maximum time and efforts to the Liberal Democrats and to the business of the House.'
Earl of Limerick, Edmund Christopher Pery, said he is, 'passionate about contributing lifetime experience to make Brexit successful'
Lord Macpherson of Drumochter, 38, - Conservative
James Anthony Macpherson is the grandson of Labour MP for Romford and business tycoon Thomas Macpherson.
He said he, 'wants to better harness his wide expertise to help drive national decisions and would be a very hard-working, effective peer'.
Lord Mostyn, 32, Crossbencher
Eton educated Gregory Philip Roger Lloyd Mostyn is one of the richest men in Wales and his estate, Mostyn Hall, is worth an estimated 48million.
He said: 'Being only 32 years old I can bring some much-needed youth to the House. I can also be a spokesman for the under-represented north-west of England and Wales as my base is located in north Wales. I have years of experience in local business as I run an estate that covers the length of north Wales.'
Viscount Mountgarret, 56, - Conservative
Eton educated Piers James Richard Butler, 18th Viscount Mountgarret, owned Stainley House in North Yorkshire, a 4,000 acre estate, which was put up for sale for 3.5million in 2014.
He said: 'Not for lack of trying, however we live in manifestly difficult and troubling times. Voices across the entire age spectrum can only serve to provide this House and the wider public with a broader sense of discussion, debate and wisdom.'
Lord Napier and Ettrick, 54, - Conservative
Francis David Charles Napier is the 15th Lord Napier of Merchistoun and runs a gardening firm just outside Cambridge. He was born deaf and has a cochlear implant, which enables him to hear 95 per cent.
He said: 'I have a clear understanding of the importance of small business to the national economy. I support charities for deaf, disabilities and disadvantaged.'
Viscount of Powerscourt, 54, - Crossbencher
Mervyn Anthony Wingfield succeeded to the title of 11th Viscount Powerscourt in 2015 and is a registered counsellor.
He said his concerns include, 'mental health and family wellbeing, root causes of poverty and social justice.'
Earl of Stockton Alexander Macmillan (pictured right) is the great-grandson of Harold Macmillan, the former Conservative Prime Minister
Lord Somerleyton, 46, - Crossbencher
Eton educated Hugh Francis Savile Crossley lives on the 5,000-acre Somerleyton estate in Norfolk and has 20 years experience in hospitality.
He said: 'I think the hereditary peerage is worth preserving and its principle creates a sense of innate commitment to the welfare of the nation.'
Earl of Stockton, 74, - Conservative
Eton educated Alexander Daniel Alan Macmillan is a former journalist who worked for the Glasgow Herald, Daily Telegraph, Sunday Telegraph, BBC and Toronto Star. His great-grandfather was Harold Macmillan, the former Conservative Prime Minister.
He said he is 'bilingual', speaking French and conversational Spanish.
Lord Strathcarron, 68, - Conservative
Ian David Patrick Macpherson founded Strathcarron Sports Cars. He did not supply a candidate statement.
Ian David Patrick Macpherson, Lord Strathcarron (pictured), founded Strathcarron Sports Cars
Lord Swansea, 60, - Conservative
Eton educated Richard Anthony Hussey Vivian is the son of John Hamilton Hussey Vivian, who was the Vice-Chairman of the National Rifle Association. He is a former financial journalist and runs a bookkeeping service for small businesses in Guildford
He said: 'As a Chinese speaker I closely follow the affairs of China and Hong Kong.'
Lord Windlesham, 49, - Conservative
Eton educated James Rupert Hennessy became the 4th Baron of Windlesham in 2010.
He said: 'I am willing and able to commit the time necessary to make an effective contribution. I am conscientious but can be independent-minded when necessary.'
Mobster John Gotti's namesake grandson has been sentenced to eight years in prison after pleading guilty to selling oxycodone pills in New York City.
The 23-year-old was arrested in August at the Queens home where his late grandfather once lived.
Gotti had been facing 25 years to life in jail before he pleaded guilty to the three drug-related charges in a plea deal last month.
Prosecutors say undercover officers bought more than $46,000 worth of oxycodone from Gotti on 11 occasions while he was running the $1.6 million-a-year drug ring in his Queens neighborhood.
Busted: John Gotti (above in August) was sentenced to eight years in prison on Thursday after pleading guilty to selling oxycodone pills in New York City
In a letter to the judge, Gotti expressed remorse for his actions, which he called a youthful indiscretion.
At his sentencing on Thursday, Gotti's lawyer said his client will likely be out of prison in about four years.
Gotti, who is the third generation in his family to be jailed behind his grandfather and uncle, will also forfeit more than $250,000 in seized drug proceeds.
As he was being taken from the court room, Gotti waved to his father Peter and tearful mother Victoria.
His uncle John Jr. Gotti was also present in the courtroom.
Gotti's grandfather was the former boss of the Gambino crime family. He died in prison in 2002.
Gotti's grandfather John Gotti was the former boss of the Gambino crime family (pictured above in 1987). He died in prison in 2002
Gotti's father Peter (left) and uncle John Gotti Jr. (right) were in court to support the 23-year-old on Thursday
His uncle John Gotti Jr. said outside court: 'I feel like a failure as an uncle... I couldn't keep him off the streets'
His family spoke outside court following the sentencing, the New York Post reports.
'My heart is wherever he winds up,' his father Peter said.
Peter's brother John Gotti Jr. said: 'I feel like a failure as an uncle... I couldn't keep him off the streets.'
Gotti's defense attorney Gerard Marrone told reporters: 'He is a kid that had a problem, and then it escalated and it got out of control.
'And his last name is what his last name is, and he is always walking around with a target great. Certain people took advantage of that target, and here we are.'
The 23-year-old was one of seven people arrested in August after a year-long drug string that ended with police seizing $240,000 in cash after executing search warrants on John's business, his two cars and his home.
More than 850 Oxycodone and Xanax pills, drug ledgers and records were also discovered and seized by authorities during the search.
John's girlfriend Eleonor Gabrielle (above in 2015) was also arrested on charges of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance
John with his father Peter (left) and his uncle John Gotti Jr (right) in September
Undercover officers had allegedly purchased $46,080 worth of Oxycodone from John over the summer. They had installed a listening device in one of John's cars, which authorities claimed captured him saying the entire drug ring generated $1.6 million.
Justin Testa, Shaine Hack, Steve Kruger, Edward Holohan, Michael Farduchi and Melissa Erul were also arrested in the drug operation and are facing a number of different charges.
The first search occurred at John's home back in August, which has been in the Gotti family for over 50 years.
It was the first time that members of law enforcement had successfully executed a search warrant on the Gotti family home.
The search of the home also led to the arrest of Gotti's girlfriend Eleonor Gabrielli on charges of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.
Gotti's arrest came a little over a month after he was discovered with 205 Oxycodone pills, 18 methadone pills, marijuana, a testosterone bottle and close to $8,000 in cash in his car during a traffic stop.
An outside investigation into sexual assault allegations at a New Hampshire prep school has identified five former staff members accused of abuse, the latest evidence that the problem at the prestigious institution dates back decades and was more widespread than previously thought.
Phillips Exeter Academy disclosed the information Thursday in a letter to the school community. It brings to eight the number of ex-employees accused of sexual misconduct at the school.
The investigation by Holland & Knight, the law firm commissioned by Phillips Exeter several months ago, identified four teachers, including a drama teacher, and a psychologist who allegedly engaged in sexually inappropriate behavior involving a total of eight students from 1966 to the 1980s.
Scroll down for full letter from the school
Phillips Exeter Academy published the findings of an independent investigation into sexual abuse allegations at the prep school on Friday, naming four former teachers and a former school psychologist as possible abusers
'We have grieved as we learned that former students were harmed by some of the very people who were charged with the responsibility of keeping them safe,' said Nicie Panetta, president of the school's trustees, in the letter to the Exeter community sent Thursday. 'We sincerely apologize to those who were harmed and deeply regret their suffering.'
THE ACCUSED TEACHERS Donald Foster - Anthropology teacher from 1976 to 2011 Foster allegedly engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with two students, once in the early 1980s and again several years later. He declined to speak about the allegations with investigators. The school ash since stripped him of his faculty emeritus status and he has been barred from campus. George Mangan - English teacher from 1976 - 2009 Mangan allegedly engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior towards two students at an off-campus location in the 1980s. He died in 2009. Henry Ploegstra - English teacher from 1962 to 1980 Ploegstra allegedly engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior toward three students between 1966 and 1980. He denied the allegations. The school has barred him from campus. Eldeff Schwaab - School psychologist from 1965 to 1976 Schwaab reportedly engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior toward one student in the early 1970s. He died in 2003. Lane Bateman - Drama teacher from 1980 to 1992 Bateman was arrested in July 1992 on a charge of possession and interstate distribution of child pornography. His employment was terminated immediately after his arrest and never returned to the campus. Bateman was convicted on the charge and sentenced to five years in prison. Investigators uncovered a new allegation he may have sexually abused a student in the 1980s. He died in 2013. Advertisement
Two of the accused - psychologist Eldeff Schwaab and teacher George Mangan - have died.
Two others were barred from the Exeter campus and, in one case, stripped of his faculty emeritus status. One of them, Henry Ploegstra, an English teacher accused of inappropriate sexual contact with three students between 1966 and 1980, denied the allegations in a letter.
Contacted at his Michigan home Thursday, the 82-year-old Ploegstra said he did not want to comment.
A fifth former staffer, Lane Bateman, a drama teacher from 1980 to 1992, also has died. Bateman had been sentenced to five years in jail on child pornography charges. He also was accused of secretly videotaping students in dorm rooms and bathrooms.
Exeter Police Chief William Schupe told The Associated Press the department was provided with the cases last year. He said they didn't pursue three of them because the suspects were deceased and the two others were closed because the victims didn't want to pursue charges.
Last year, Arthur Peekel pleaded not guilty to charges that he assaulted Lawrence Jenkens when Jenkens visited the school in Exeter as a youngster in 1973. Peekel left the school soon afterward and went on to teach in Illinois, where he was named Teacher of the Year in 1992. He retired from Rolling Meadows High School in 2004.
The Associated Press generally doesn't name people who say they're victims of sexual abuse, but Jenkens said he wanted to discuss his case publicly.
Concerns about sex abuse at Exeter were first raised following revelations last March about former teacher Rick Schubart, who was forced to resign in 2011 after admitting sexual misconduct dating to the 1970s. Then, in April, teacher Steve Lewis was fired amid allegations he had sexual encounters with a student decades ago.
The string of abuse claims at Exeter and at several other prep schools in New England, including St. George's School in Rhode Island and St. Paul's in New Hampshire, has raised concerns that the schools failed to take allegations seriously in the past or bungled their investigations.
Since the allegations surfaced, Exeter has undergone what it has described as 'an intensive self-examination' that included the investigation by Holland & Knight as well as a second investigation into the handling of the Schubart case by the law firm Choate, Hall & Stewart. It also offered victims counseling and created a position, director of student well-being.
The Schubart investigation determined that the school appropriately reported the two cases of misconduct - one involving a student in the 1970s and another of a student in the 1980s - to the authorities and undertook its own investigation. But the school failed to look for other victims or encourage them to come forward.
'Choate Hall found that in the period from 2011 through the conclusion of its review, PEA did not have sufficiently robust governance processes in place to ensure that sexual misconduct, like the Schubart matter, would always be addressed appropriately,' according to the Exeter letter.
A Presbyterian supervisor at a farm school was known as 'Creeping Jesus' because of the way he crept up on boys at night to sexually abuse them in the 1950s, an inquiry has heard.
A former child migrant gave evidence to the child sex abuse inquiry sitting in London on Thursday, detailing the abuse he suffered after being shipped from the UK where he had been in foster care.
Michael Hawes, now aged 70 and living in Queensland, arrived in Australia in 1954 at the age of seven and was sent to the Presbyterian church's farm school at Dhurringile in Victoria.
A Presbyterian supervisor at a farm school was known as 'Creeping Jesus' because of the way he crept up on boys at night to sexually abuse them in the 1950s. Stock photo
He said he was constantly bullied by the older boys, was once tied up in barbed wire and pelted with rocks and one boy nearly succeeded in cutting off his finger with a pocket knife.
Holding back tears, Mr Hawes said he was abused by two staff members at the school, including one the boys dubbed 'Creeping Jesus'.
'You wouldn't hear him come, he'd go up the stairs and he'd pick a boy up and take him downstairs to a locked room,' he said.
Mr Hawes said he was forced to masturbate him but he refused to perform oral sex, telling the man he would bite.
The Dhurringile Rural Training Farm (above, file photo) operated from 1951 until 1964
A former child migrant gave evidence to the child sex abuse inquiry sitting in London on Thursday, detailing the abuse he suffered. Stock photo
He said such abuse went on at least once a week for up to four years, with boys thrashed if they didn't cooperate.
Mr Hawes said another man at the school would grope him down his shorts and strip off in front of boys to show his erection.
At age 12 he was reunited with his parents when they moved to Australia but he said they were like strangers to him by then and he later left home to drift from job to job.
He said the abuse had left him lacking self esteem and he still found it hard to trust people.
The Australian government issued an apology in 2009 for the cruelty shown to child migrants and the UK government apologised in 2010 for its part in the child migration program.
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 (for young people aged five to 25).
A woman sentenced to 93 days in jail after a judge caught her laughing during a family's victim statement at her daughter's deadly DUI sentencing has been released after giving a tearful apology in court.
Donna Kosal was jailed for contempt of court in Detroit, Michigan last week following the shocking outburst as her 25-year-old daughter Amanda was waiting to hear her sentence for killing father-of-five Jerome Zirker.
After spending a night in jail, Kosal returned to face Judge Qiana Lillard again as she sobbed through an apology.
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Donna Kosal was jailed for contempt of court in Detroit, Michigan on Tuesday but was released after just one night after apologizing to the judge
Donna Kosal (seen in her prison jumpsuit) was released from custody after just 24 hours after issuing a grovelling apology to the judge
'I deeply apologize for what I did, I was under a lot of stress... I just needed to get out. It is very hard for me,' Kosal told the judge in footage obtained by NBC.
Judge Lillard hit back saying: 'What you have to understand is that as hard as this is for you to see your baby go to prison, imagine what that family feels like when their child is dead.'
Kosal was released after just one night in jail.
She had initially been thrown out of the courtroom, along with her unidentified boyfriend, when the victim's sister took the stand and read a statement on behalf of his five children.
Video from inside the courtroom showed the judge losing patience with the man, and then Kosal, after she caught them smirking.
Donna Kosal is seen being escorted out of a courtroom in Detroit after a judge said she started laughing as her drunk driver daughter was sentenced for killing a father-of-five
Her daughter Amanda Kosal, 25, (above) was waiting to hear how long she would spend in prison for killing father-of-five Jerome Zirker when her supporters made the shocking outburst
She then ordered officers to bring the mother back in so she could sentence her to 93 days behind bars for contempt of court.
Judge Lillard slammed the pair for being disrespectful.
'It's time for him to go,' the judge could be heard saying in the video.
'I don't know who he is, but whoever can sit here at a tragic moment like this and laugh and smile when somebody has lost a family member... in the entire time that Mr Zirker's sister was speaking that clown, and that's what I am going to call him, a clown, was sitting there smiling and laughing.'
The judge then turned her attention to the mother.
'And you can go, too. Because if you don't know how to act, you can go to jail. So leave. Anybody that can sit there and laugh and smirk - take her, she's going in the back - anybody else wanna go?
'I understand that you all are very upset because your loved one is going to prison but guess what, she's going to prison for the choices that she made.
'These people are here grieving, saddened because a senseless act took away their loved one and you're sitting here acting like it's a joke?'
Victim Jerome Zirker's sister was reading a victim impact statement from his children when the judge noticed Amanda's mother and her mother's boyfriend acting up
'It's time for him to go': A man identified by the judge as Donna Kosal's boyfriend was the first to be thrown from court
Jerome Zirker (left) was killed in the crash. He left behind his fiancee Brittany Johnson (right) the single mother of five kids
Amanda Kosal pleaded guilty to killing Jerome Zirker, 31, and severely injuring his fiancee Brittany Johnson, also 31.
She was sentenced to three to 15 years in prison.
Amanda slammed into the couple after Zirker had picked up his fiancee from her 12-hour shift as a care worker at a group home, Click on Detroit reports.
Ordinarily, their five kids would have been with them but Johnson said they were at their grandmother's instead.
'(Amanda) took everything away from me and its horrible,' Johnson said. 'She took a good man off this earth. He was a good man who took care of his kids on a daily basis.'
She said she would have preferred Amanda not go to prison and instead stay out of it and help her support her children.
Donna (in the background in the white cardigan) was escorted out, but soon after the judge ordered her to return and sentenced her to 93 days in jail for contempt of court
Amanda Kosal, 25, pleaded guilty to being drunk when she slammed head on into the vehicle of Jerome Zirker and Brittany Johnson, killing Zirker (Kosal is seen in a police interview after the incident)
Zirker's fiancee, Brittany Johnson, survived the crash but now is a single mother to her five children. She is pictured in a hospital bed
Donald Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner met with Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak, the White House said on Thursday in just the latest explosive revelation about a growing list of contacts between Trump associates and the Kremlin.
Kushner, the husband of Ivanka Trump who the president brought in as a top White House advisor, met with the Russian ambassador inside Trump Tower in December, the New York Times reported Thursday.
Also in on the meeting was Lt. Gen. Mike Flynn, who stepped down as national security advisor after revelations about his contacts with Kislyak as Trump prepared to take office.
At the time Trump Tower was the unofficial White House, and every coming and going was in public - except those which the Trump transition team organized to keep under wraps.
Kislyak, regarded as one of Russia's most important spies, was therefore smuggled in by the Trump team for the meeting.
President Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, met with Russia's ambassador to the U.S. in December, it was reported Thursday. Kushner was at the President's side Thursday on a trip to Newport, VA, and then with him when he returned to the Oval Office
Plenty of reporters in the lobby: Trump Tower was staked out by scores of reporters from dawn every day in December - but Russia's most senior diplomat, a man believed to be its top spy, was smuggled in by Jared Kushner
It is unclear where they met, but it is known that Kushner and Flynn had offices a floor below the one used by the then-president-elect.
'They generally discussed the relationship and it made sense to establish a line of communication, White House spokeswoman Hope Hicks told the Times.
Jared has had meetings with many other foreign countries and representatives as many as two dozen other foreign countries leaders and representatives,' she added.
Trump has tasked Kushner with spearheading a host of complex issues, including Middle East peace initiatives.
But his contacts with Kislyak who intelligence figures are said to regard Kislyak as a recruiter of intelligence assets bring Kremlin contacts even closer to home.
The high-rise get together lasted about 20 minutes, Hicks said. Kushner hasn't met with him since, she said.
There was no mention of the meeting with the Kremlin big in the president-elect's public schedule, or in the reports compiled by pool reporters who set up camp in the lobby of Trump Tower from the November election until Trump took office.
The White House put out the information on a day when Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced he was recusing himself from any investigations related to the presidential elections hours after it was reported that he met with Kislyak two times during the presidential campaign season.
One meeting occurred inside Sessions Senate office this fall.
'My staff recommended recusal. They said that since I had involvement with the campaign I should not be involved in any campaign investigation,' Sessions told reporters in a hastily-called press conference in the Department of Justice.
Before the press conference, Trump was asked if he knew Jeff Sessions had met Russia's ambassador before the election - and said: 'I wasn't aware at all.'
President Donald Trump says he has 'total' confidence in his attorney general and does not think he should recuse himself from Justice Department investigations involving Russia - but offered a lukewarm endorsement of his truthfulness
Not quitting: Jeff Sessions said he would sit out any decision on prosecutions which could arise from current investigations into whether Russia meddled in the election - but that he had not lied to the Senate
The president's intervention came as Sessions faced a firestorm over whether he lied to the Senate during confirmation hearings by failing to disclose his two meetings last summer with Vladimir Putin's man in Washington.
Asked as he visited the USS Gerard R. Ford in Newport News, Virginia, Trump was asked if Sessions told a Senate panel the truth about the communications. He gave only a half-hearted endorsement.
'I think he probably did,' Trump said.
Flynn left the White House after just weeks on the job after it was revealed he had multiple contacts with Kislyak where the Russia sanctions were discussed.
The Obama administration expelled 35 Russian diplomats in the waning days of the administration, following intelligence agency conclusions that Moscow backed U.S. election hacking.
It isn't just close Trump associates who met with the Russian ambassador, though Kushner, Flynne, and Sessions were among the most plugged-in Trump advisors.
Democratic Senators Dianne Feinstein of California and Claire McCaskill of Missouri were revealed to have met with the ambassador in the past.
A man who murdered the mother of his children with a shotgun bearing her name before stealing her drugs and leaving her for dead has been jailed.
Darren Kale Walters, 36, was in a jealous rage when he gunned down his on-and-off partner Leah Appleton, 34, in a car park under a West Perth apartment block in August 2015.
Walters was sentenced to 20 years behind bars in the Supreme Court of Western Australia for the 'callous' murder, which he claimed was an accident,reports ABC.
Darren Kale Walters, 36, brutally murdered his girlfriend Leah Appleton, 34, in 2015
The court heard the couple's drug addiction had spiralled out of control, leaving them living in a rental car with their two children at the time of the murder.
Walters was in an 'angry and jealous state' when he accused the mother of having an affair with another man she was with, Alex Thompson, who he attacked with the shotgun.
After Ms Appleton told him 'just shoot me', he fired a shot into her abdomen at point blank range and robbed her off her drugs as she lay bleeding to death, the court heard.
'It was a desperate act of a drug addict and a drug dealer,' Supreme Court Justice Bruno Fiannaca Fiannaca said.
He then stashed the shotgun which was loaded with a cartridge inscribed with 'Leah' on it' - in a garbage bin and fled the scene, the court heard.
Justice Fiannaca said it was not a calculated murder but the desperate behaviour of a drug-addled man.
The court heard Walters was in a jealous rage when he gunned down the mother of his children Ms Appleton
Walters then stole her drugs, stashed the shotgun and left her for dead
A mother who allegedly tried to kill her two sons in the Murray River told friends that she 'had to drown my babies' the night before the horrific incident, a court heard.
The 27-year-old mother, who lives near Deniliquin in southern New South Wales, has been charged with the attempted murder of her nine-year-old son.
The woman, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, allegedly took her son into the river in Moama, about 75km south of Deniliquin, and held his head under the surface as her younger boy, five, screamed from the water's edge, Bendigo Magistrates Court heard.
The nine-year-old was able to free himself and escaped, only to be mauled by a pitbull, called Buddy, that also went on to attack the mother, 9 News reported.
The court was told that she then took her five-year-old boy into the water. He was last seen floating downriver, face-down.
Police have suspended the search for the younger boy, who is feared dead, but will continue in the morning. The older son is recovering in hospital with serious dog bite injuries.
It has also emerged that the mother was on bail, having been released from prison just a month ago.
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The mother is pictured with her two boys, aged nine and five, who were involved in the horror incident on Thursday
The children's mother (pictured) has been charged with attempted murder after the incident at Moama on the Murray River on Thursday night
A nine-year-old boy is in hospital with serious dog bite injuries as police search for his five-year-old brother who is feared drowned in the Murray River (search for boy pictured)
The owner of the dog involved in the incident said her four-year-old pit bull (pictured) was likely reacting to the drama happening at the banks of the river
The mother was arrested after she handed herself in at Echuca Police Station in Victoria on Thursday night.
The court heard that the mother - who was extradited to New South Wales to face charges - told friends on Wednesday that she 'had to drown my babies'.
The court was also told that she was on bail for serious offences when the incident took place. It is not clear what those offences are. She did not apply for bail during the brief court appearance.
The children's grandparents released a statement tonight revealing that they had been caring for the boys for the last 18 months.
They claimed they repeatedly warned the authorities about the 'imminent risk' the boys faced after their mother was released on prison on February 2.
The grandparents' lawyers released a statement on their behalf, which said: 'The grandparents have had full-time care of the children for close to 18 months.
'We had made considerable representations to Family and Children Services and the Department of Correctional Services about the imminent risk posed to the little boys with their mothers release from prison.
'Both departments failed to act and consequently we now have a grieving family.'
A nine-year-old boy is in hospital with serious dog bite injuries as police search for his five-year-old brother who is feared drowned in a river (search for boy pictured)
Moama is a town in the Riverina district of southern New South Wales, close to the Victorian boarder
Police said the mother took her sons to a property near Moama at about 4pm on Thursday, telling them they were to go fishing in the Murray River.
Moama police were called to the scene and found the boy with dog bite injuries before discovering his younger brother was missing.
Divers recovered a small T-shirt from the river during the search.
Superintendent Paul Condon said police spoke with the older boy on Thursday night after he was taken to a Moama home with the serious bites.
He was transferred to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne where he required surgery. He remains in a serious condition.
'It is very unclear at this stage what happened at the riverbank,' Superintendent Condon said.
'The dog has been involved. The dog has bitten the 27-year-old mother and the nine-year-old. The actual circumstances are unknown.'
Victorian Emergency services personnel search the Murray River at Moama
New South Wales emergency services personnel search the Murray River
Police said the mother took her sons to a property near Moama at about 4pm on Thursday where they were fishing in the Murray River (search for boy pictured)
Superintendent Condon on Friday said the mother had been interviewed by Deniliquin detectives.
Superintendent Condon said the woman was released from jail about a month ago.
The attempted murder charge relates to the woman's nine-year-old son.
Asked if the mother could subsequently be charged with murder too, Superintendent Condon said: 'I don't know. It depends what the result of the search is.'
Supt Condon said there'd been 'a couple of incidents' involving the family since the mother had been released from jail.
The two boys have different fathers and police are trying to locate the men.
A woman has been arrested as police resume a search for a five-year-old boy missing in the Murray River
Police divers were called in on Friday morning to search for the five-year-old boy (search for boy pictured)
Some 30 searchers are involved from the Rural Fire Service, the SES, and Victorian and NSW police
The mother knew the owners of the property at Moama, where the nine-year-old was found with serious injuries on Thursday evening, Superintendent Condon said.
Some 30 searchers are involved from the Rural Fire Service, the SES, and Victorian and NSW police.
'We are starting from the rear of the premises where the boy was found with the dog and we are trying to expand obviously down river, following the current, but also upstream on the banks,' Superintendent Condon said.
Superintendent Condon said the 'devastating' incident would have a widespread impact.
'I think it will rock the community of Australia,' he said.
No other parties were being sought in relation to this matter, Superintendent Condon said.
'The dog belongs to a local family and police and emergency services were contacted by a local resident,' Superintendent Condon said.
'Contrary to rumours, the dog was not set on the child. This has been an extremely traumatic scene for all the first responders involved and welfare support is being offered.'
The owner of the dog involved in the incident, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Riverine Herald her four-year-old pit bull was likely reacting to the drama happening at the banks of the river.
She believed the dog may have actually been trying to pull the nine-year-old to safety.
A bus has slammed into the front of a north Melbourne takeaway shop, leaving destruction and debris in its wake.
It's believed a truck collided with the 401 express bus at the intersection of Victoria and Dryburgh Streets about 9.50am, causing the bus to veer off the road and into the front of the building.
The four passengers on the bus and the truck driver were not injured in the crash.
The bus driver was taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a stable condition with no obvious signs of injury, Ambulance Victoria told Daily Mail Australia.
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A bus has slammed into the front of a takeaway store in Melbourne's north, leaving destruction and debris in its wake
The 401 express bus smashed into the Victoria St takeaway shop at about 10am on Friday morning
Passengersthought 'this is it' as the saw the truck coming towards them prior to the collision
A man working in the store at the time told 3AW that he thought the impact was a 'lightening strike' and the power went out.
A customer had narrowly missed the bus, having left the shop just a minute before.
'We were all fortunately in the back of the shop when all of a sudden there was a great bang,' Matthew said.
'We put our heads around the corner and we saw a 401 has ploughed through the front of the shop.'
Passengers on the 401 express shuttle, which runs between the University of Melbourne and North Melbourne station, told Ten News that they thought 'this is it' as the saw the truck coming towards them prior to the collision.
Traffic was blocked at the intersection of Dryburgh and Victoria Streets.
Motorists were urged to avoid the area.
The 401 express shuttle normally runs between the University of Melbourne and North Melbourne station
A customer had narrowly missed the bus collision, having left the shop just a minute before
A man working in the store at the time said he thought the impact was a 'lightening strike'
The four passengers on the bus and the truck driver were not injured in the crash. The bus driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries
A woman has delivered her baby on the back seat of her car outside of a petrol station.
Isobel Hutchinson, unexpectedly welcomed son Louis on Wednesday - four days before her due date.
The Melbourne mother had taken her three-year-old daughter Sabine to her dance class in Lygon Street after ignoring 'irregular contractions' earlier that morning.
Isobel Hutchinson unexpectedly welcomed son Louis on Wednesday after delivering him on the back seat of her car outside of a petrol station
But Ms Hutchinson couldn't ignore her water breaking in the middle of Lygon street and desperately called husband Samir Younes who rushed to his wife's aid.
'I got a call around 11 to come to Carlton, her waters had broken in the middle of Lygon Street,' Mr Younes told The Age.
But on the way to the hospital Ms Hutchinson realised she wasn't going to make it and asked her husband to pull over.
So Mr Younes pulled into the BP station on the corner of St Georges Road and Bell Street and after a a frantic phone call to paramedics and only 10 minutes Louie was born.
'It was three pushes and then he popped out in my arms. It was amazing,' Mr Younis said.
Paramedics arrived a short time later and whisked the mother and newborn to Mercy Hospital.
There's been a complaint about my first report from Sweden.
A reader is very angry because I suggested the child raped by a 45-year-old migrant (posing as an unaccompanied minor) was 14.
In fact, he was 12.
This is the state of liberalism today. So determined to prove I am wrong, my observations erroneous, the stories I have on tape inaccurate, that it has lost all sight of the raped migrant child crumpled in the corner.
Similarly, the 'we know better brigade' are so puffed up with smug self-importance as they point out Trump got his dates confused over the troubles in Sweden, they cant see past their own chest to the riots in Rinkeby.
Katie Hopkins meets with Mattias Karlsson, the group leader in parliament for the Swedish Democrats
Where cars were set alight, shops looted and shopkeepers beaten while youths went on the rampage.
I asked Mattias Karlsson, leader of the Swedish Democrats - currently leading in the polls - why other politicians refuse to acknowledge the problems right in front of their eyes.
He explained that to accept there is a problem would mean accepting nearly 80 years of liberal thinking was wrong. That multiculturalism doesn't work, that mass immigration does not lead to integration, that Sweden has made a big mistake.
A stranger came up to me in a coffee shop to say much the same thing. She had read my first report. She implored me to shout louder.
She said Sweden cannot go on pretending it is some kind of utopia. That it is on a path to fail, that her friends fear Sweden is being overwhelmed.
The fears are real. The areas migrants inhabit have become sink suburbs, riddled with no-go zones, even for the police, where hand-grenade attacks are the accepted norm, women stay indoors, and the ambulances and fire engines need police escorts. God help any good people forced to live here.
Katie meets with Group Commander Fredrik Liljegren, who heads up Kista Fire Station. His is the toughest fire station in Sweden, dealing with the highest incident rate in the country
I met with Group Commander Fredrik Liljegren who heads up Kista Fire Station. His is the toughest fire station in Sweden, dealing with the highest incident rate in the country.
Four members of his team work full time to help migrant children understand why it is important to let these crews do their work. Not to throw rocks at the vehicles. Or slash their tyres. Or cut the hoses.
These feel like lessons in humanity, sadly lacking in this place.
I asked Mattias whether he thought these suburbs would end up being walled off, like mini-Mexicos, in an effort to contain the problem.
He told me it was more likely that gated communities would spring up walls of another sort, to keep the bad out and protect those within, but no less depressing and divisive.
Here at the fire station he is not wrong. A reinforced fence is being built all the way around the premises to try to prevent break-ins. Five cutting tools have been stolen from this station alone whilst the vehicles were in the station.
This is what multiculturalism looks like in 21st-century Sweden. I am stunned the moral bar has never fallen so low.
Five cutting tools have been stolen from this station alone whilst the vehicles were in the station
Four members of Fredrik's team work full time to help migrant children understand why it is important to let these crews do their work. Not to throw rocks at them or slash their tyres
Still no one dares address the sharp rise in violent crime stabbings, grenade attacks, automatic-weapon fire, violent rapes, the sorts of crime which terrorise communities.
Except one, Peter Springare, a police officer with 42 years of policing Sweden under his belt.
I went to meet him at his police station in Orebro to ask why he spoke out, in a place where silent acceptance seems mandatory.
He posted on Facebook, 'here we go; this is what I've handled from Monday to Friday this week: rape, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, rape-assault and rape....violence against the police, threats to police, drug crime, felony, attempted murder, rape again.
'Suspected perpetrators; Ali Mohammed, Mahmod, Mohammed, Mohammed Ali, Muhammad, again, again, again. Countries representing all the crimes this week; Iraq, Iraq, Syria, Turkey, Syria, Afghanistan, Somalia, Somalia, Syria again, Somalia...
Peter Springare, a police officer with 42 years of policing Sweden under his belt, wants politicians to acknowledge there is a problem with immigrant criminals
Predictably, the left rushed in to call him a racist, calling him a Nazi, a xenophobe.
But if they listen, they'd hear he is surprisingly positive about the benefits of controlled migration. And does not believe in deporting criminal immigrants. He just wants politicians to acknowledge there is a problem with immigrant criminals.
He is clear about their intent to overload the police and overturn the Swedish justice system. He believes if this continues, Sweden will become a lawless country.
I think back to my 48 hours in Rinkeby. There, I wonder if the battle has already been lost. I watched American journalists flee under police escort from where I stood, frightened off by the masked gangs who control this turf.
I followed up on the riots last week. Not a single arrest was made.
After Peter's Facebook post, in which he drew attention to the volume of crimes allegedly perpetrated by migrants, he was branded a racist, a Nazi, a xenophobe
I spoke to residents who know burglaries will not be attended, rapes not prosecuted, car fires accepted with a shrug, pepper spray banned in case your rapist is hurt.
Gangs here have rewritten the relationship between crime and punishment. They have gained the upper hand. And they know it. For them, justice is delivered with guns or knives, dominance asserted by unbuttoning their fly.
But the only response the government know is to try to silence people like Peter. To pretend the problem away.
The establishment tried to make a case against him for 'inciting racial hatred'. But that fell apart. Now they are trying to make 'hacking police files and dereliction of duty' stick.
He will not be silenced. Nor will the stranger in the coffee shop who urged me to keep speaking out. Or the Swedish Democrats determined to force this debate into the centre ground. Or the victims of violent rape who don't care if you think the sexual assault graph is going up or down.
They share a single message; Sweden cannot begin to solve its problems until it starts talking about them.
I'd ask the politicians to step away from the pretty bits which look like the Sweden I imagined. And spend time with the men and women in the dirty places in between.
Places I spent time in pretending to be brave; where a white woman is a whore, first responders are under attack, and the streets are run by gangs who do not fear the law but laugh in its face.
Andy Parker has stepped down as head of Capita
The 2.7million-a-year executive in charge of the firm that collects TV licence fees has been ousted days after the Daily Mail exposed his staffs ruthless and underhand tactics.
Andy Parker stepped down yesterday as head of Capita, the outsourcing company paid 59million a year by the BBC.
The news came days after the Mail revealed how his TV Licensing staff were part of an aggressive incentive scheme.
An undercover reporter found officials were told to catch at least 28 evaders each a week.
He heard how staff could make 15,000 a year in bonuses and had to gather evidence so as many people as possible could be prosecuted.
Those taken to court in the past few days include a war veteran with dementia.
The Mails expose prompted the BBC to order an urgent investigation, insisting there would be swift action.
Theresa May instructed ministers to meet BBC bosses.
Within hours, BBC director-general Tony Hall wrote to 48-year-old Mr Parker, expressing his fears that vulnerable people risked being picked on by licence fee inspectors.
Lord Hall said Capita had fallen short of the standards the BBC has a right to expect on behalf of the British public.
Mr Parker, who has run Capita for three years, earned a total of 2.68million in 2015 the equivalent of 51,000 a week.
He will leave later this year when a replacement is found.
Exposed: How the Mail exposed the licence bullies on Monday and Tuesday
Capita has had a dismal year financially, with a string of profit warnings leading to it falling out of the FTSE100.
In 2016, pre-tax profits fell by 33 per cent, and its share price is down by more than 40 per cent over the past 12 months.
A Capita source said the firm has been discussing Mr Parkers future for two weeks following the poor results. The final decision was made in the hours before a crucial meeting at 6.30am yesterday.
The source added: On Wednesday they were in discussions and they decided overnight. The TV Licence stories cant have helped him. Everything counts.
On Monday, the Mail Investigations Unit revealed the tactics used by fee enforcers. TV Licensing manager Ian Doyle told the reporter: We will drive you as hard as we can to get as much as we can out of you because were greedy.
All households must have a licence if residents watch or record live TV programmes on any channel, or download or watch BBC shows on iPlayer. This applies to any device used.
People who do not pay can be fined up to 1,000 and face a criminal conviction. Of the 38 people jailed for not paying the fine in 2015, most were women.
Mr Parker lives with his wife Nadine and two sons in a 2million house in Loxley, Warwickshire. In addition to his 550,000 salary, in 2015 he earned a 550,000 bonus and shares worth 1.5million from a long-term incentive plan.
He also claimed 63,353 in benefits, including private medical care.
Capita said he was not stepping down as a result of the Mail reports. It claims it does not target vulnerable people, and its incentive scheme only applies to fee sales, not convictions.
A spokesman added: This mutually agreed decision follows weeks of discussions about the appropriate leadership to best support the group.
It is entirely inaccurate to suggest this board change is related in any way to the BBC TV Licensing contract.
A BBC spokesman said: Its our policy to only prosecute evaders as a last resort.
One of Hollywood's most iconic cars may have been found after being lost for nearly 50 years.
Steve McQueen drove a classic Highland Green 1968 Mustang GT in the movie 'Bullitt,' creating one of the most iconic on-screen automotive duos there's ever been.
During the film, there were two identical cars used - one that was kept to appear brand new, and one that was used during the movie's groundbreaking chase scene through steep streets of San Francisco.
Steve McQueen drove a classic Highland Green 1968 Mustang GT in the movie 'Bullitt,' creating one of the most iconic on-screen automotive duos there's ever been
A member of the Vintage Mustang Forum , Fede Garza, posted a photo of a Mustang that was about to be converted into a replica of the 'Eleanor' Mustang from the film 'Gone in 60 Seconds' at a restoration shop
One car was preserved and sold three times over the years, and is safeguarded by a private owner now.
The stunt car was so badly beaten up in production that it was supposedly sent to a junkyard, reported Fox News Auto.
However, it's come out that the same car has resurfaced in an unknown location in Mexico.
A member of the Vintage Mustang Forum, Fede Garza, posted photos of a Mustang that was about to be converted into a replica of the 'Eleanor' Mustang from the film 'Gone in 60 Seconds' at a restoration shop.
The car's owner researched the car's vehicle identification number (VIN) and learned that it might be the 'Bullitt' Mustang.
Owners were prompted to look into it based on other telltale features such as reinforced shock towers, a custom nine-inch rear axle, and holes in the trunk that are likely to accommodate a generator used to run the in-car camera lights
If it is proved to be authentic, the number matches the missing movie car
If it is proved to be authentic, the number matches the missing movie car.
The current owners were prompted to look into it based on other telltale features such as reinforced shock towers, a custom nine-inch rear axle, and holes in the trunk that are likely to accommodate a generator used o run the in-car camera lights.
Garza said that the Mustang had been rotting away in Baja California Sur for 20-30 years, reported Fox.
Kevin Marti, who is one of the world's top experts on classic Fords has said he is headed to Mexico right now to attempt to verify if the car is really the same one from the 1968 movie.
The Mustang was used during 'groundbreaking chase scene through the steep streets of San Fransisco
The 10-minute chase scene is regarded as one of the most influential in movie history and is considered to have revolutionized Hollywood's standards
Though he has only seen photos, he is very optimistic that they have found the missing car, and with his seal of approval, Garza said he plans to display the car at a local Ford dealership then send it north for a proper restoration.
If everything proves legitimate, the Mexican Mustang could be fixed up in time for the 50th movie anniversary.
Ministers are rethinking their reluctance to introduce a plastic bottle deposit and refund scheme.
Environment minister Therese Coffey has hinted the scheme could form part of efforts to reduce the 15million plastic bottles thrown away each day which clog up oceans and rivers.
The last Government introduced a 5p charge on plastic bags which has cut littering and the number issued at tills by more than 70 per cent.
Ministers are rethinking their reluctance to introduce a plastic bottle deposit and refund scheme
And while Westminster is currently drawing up a new litter strategy, which is likely to include higher fines, a first draft which was leaked a few weeks ago contained no mention of a plastic bottle deposit and refund scheme (DRS).
However, a campaign on the issue by the Daily Mail and a dramatic shift in position by Coca-Cola appear to have put the idea back on the agenda.
Two weeks ago, the US drinks giant, which has previously lobbied against a bottle deposit scheme for the UK, came out in favour of trials on the back of customer surveys that found two in three people support the idea.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is currently working on plans to ban the use of plastic microbeads in products to protect the oceans as well as the fish and shellfish eaten by humans.
Green campaigners argue the next logical step is to deal with the blight caused by the 15million plastic bottles thrown away in Britain every day. Miss Coffeys apparent willingness to reconsider a DRS for plastic bottles emerged as she answered questions in the Commons yesterday.
Environment minister Therese Coffey has hinted a deposit could form part of efforts to reduce the 15million plastic bottles thrown away each day
Tory Steve Double, the MP for St Austell and Newquay, raised the issue, where he cited a petition set up by Surfers Against Sewage calling for a bottle deposit scheme that has garnered more than 210,000 signatures.
Mr Double said: The Governments progress on banning microbeads is very welcome but there are other forms of plastic that are polluting our seas, including the 15million plastic bottles that are thrown away every day.
Would the minister meet with me to discuss how we can advance this petition and make progress on this issue?
In reply, she said: I would be happy to meet with you to discuss this matter. We are looking at this issue in terms of the litter strategy.
The Scottish government is already considering trials for a plastic bottle DRS which could start as early as next year.
Labour MP Kerry McCarthy also called on ministers to back a DRS for plastic bottles in England. She said: Larger plastics that break down and become microplastics within the marine environment are really the big issue. A deposit return scheme would make a really big difference.
John Read, founder of the Clean Up Britain campaign, said: Its very encouraging to hear that the minister seems to be indicating the Government is willing to look seriously at a DRS.
After opposing it for so long, Coca-Cola has recently indicated that it is open-minded about its introduction too, and deserve credit for this change of policy. Support for a DRS is now gathering discernible momentum, and we have no doubt its adoption would be a very effective weapon in the war on litter.
A lawyer who jumped to his death from his ninth floor Park Avenue apartment landed in front of horrified joggers on a terrace outside the building's gym.
Kenneth Freeling, 59, died on Thursday morning after falling from the balcony in is $5,100 one-bedroom apartment to the second floor terrace.
A woman and her daughter inside who were jogging on treadmills witnessed his death and called for help.
'We were on the treadmills facing this when a man fell out of the sky and landed on the terrace.
A lawyer jumped from the ninth floor of this Park Avenue apartment building and landed on a second floor terrace overlooked by its gym where two joggers witnessed his death
'I was looking at the TV and my daughter said, "Mom, a man just fell out of the sky."
'It was not pretty. She shook him and said, "Are you OK?"' the woman told The New York Post, declining to give her name.
Mr Freeling, a lawyer for Covington & Burling LLP, had been battling mental health and drug issues, according to police.
Ken Freeling, 59, was battling mental health and drug issues, according to police
There was no answer at his home on Thursday evening. His son, Sam, also took his own life in 2013.
At the time he was 21 and studying at the University of Rochester.
His mother Sue Cimbricz appeared on a Katie Couric Yahoo News special afterwards to raise awareness of undetected depression among young people.
Mr Freeling's death is the second suicide at a Manhattan high-rise building in as many days.
On Wednesday, father-of-two Kevin Bell died after leaping from his apartment on the Upper West Side.
The hedge-fund executive's two children and wife were at home when he took his own life at 7.20am.
Mr Freeling's son Sam took his own life in 2013 at the age of 25. His mother, Sue Cimbricz, (above) appeared on a Katie Couric Yahoo News special afterwards to raise awareness of undetected depression among young people
For confidential help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or click here
For confidential support on suicide matters in the UK, call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or click here
In the dock: Derry McCann raped a stranger in a park hours before marrying Harry Kane's pregnant cousin
A groom raped a stranger in a park hours before marrying Harry Kane's pregnant cousin.
Derry McCann, 28, subjected the 24-year-old woman to a 'sustained and systematic' attack over two hours in Victoria Park in Hackney, east London.
Detectives believe he planned to rape a different woman but 'lost track' of her so grabbed the eventual victim as she walked home after a night out with friends in the early hours of January 13.
After repeatedly raping her he also stole her phone and bra telling the victim: 'Youre lucky I didnt video it'.
Hours later McCann married at The Vestry in Bromley-by-Bow and posted pictures of himself with his new wife Kerry Hogg, 27, on his public Facebook page.
Kerry, who had no idea about the attack and has recently given birth to McCann's son, is a cousin of England and Spurs striker Harry Kane. Her father and his mother are siblings.
She was not at Snaresbrook Crown Court yesterday when her husband admitted rape.
McCann's assault in January mirrors a similar assault for which he was jailed in 2006, after he attacked a lawyer in a park in east London, telling an accomplice he would 'have fun with this one'.
He was sentenced to life with a minimum of nine years, and the judge said there was a risk he would strike again.
The defendant, of Hackney, east London, fixed his eyes on the ground as he pleaded guilty to three counts of rape, one count of assault by penetration and one count of robbery.
Honorary Recorder Martyn Zeidman told the rapist he had carried out a 'terrible' crime and faced a 'very, very long time' in prison.
First dance: Derry Flynn McCann, 28, pictured with his new wife on their wedding day - the groom has since admitted rape, robbery and assault carried out that day
McCann played 'mind games' with his victim after dragging her into the undergrowth, taunting her by asking what she thought he would do next, Snaresbrook Crown Court was told.
McCann also snatched the woman's mobile phone and bra, the court heard.
Kate Bex, prosecuting, said: 'It was about midnight, just a little after, and the victim was walking a short distance home having been out to an art gallery, socialising with friends.
Kerry Hogg, McCann's wife, is cousins with Tottenham striker Harry Kane (pictured)
'She was almost within sight of her own front door when she skirted round the side of the park on her usual route home.
'She avoided walking through the middle of it because that was too dangerous, she walked around the side, but unfortunately when near the exit of the park the defendant grabbed her arm and pulled her to one side.
'He began a sustained and systematic attack, best described as mind games in an attempt to control her. Asking the victim what she thought he was going to do to her before actually carrying out the acts.
'He behaved oddly in other respects in interacting with the victim concerning the condom he used when he penetrated and ejaculated.'
McCann will be sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on April 28.
The court heard that in May 2006, when he was 17 and on a tag for burglary he preyed on the 30-year-old trainee lawyer as she made her way home through an east London park.
After snatching the woman's handbag he chillingly told an accomplice: 'I'm gonna have some fun with this one.'
The attack took place in Victoria Park, Hackney, pictured, in which a 24-year-old woman was sexually assaulted
He then dragged her down to the secluded banks of a pond in Mile End Park to inflict a string of disturbing sexual assaults.
McCann began his assault by biting her on the cheek before alternately beating and raping her.
During the prolonged assault he told her she was his girlfriend and he wanted her to have his child before saying he was going to chain her up in his basement where he kept other women.
A detective at the time said he put his victim through a 'life-changing trauma that will haunt her for the rest of her life'.
Judge Lindsay Burn had expressed deep concern over his 'clinical enactment of a catalogue of sexual desires', which amounted to 'torture'.
Snaresbrook Crown Court where McCann will return for sentencing on April 28 after admitting rape and assault
The judge said: 'Some of the most bizarre and worrying features of the evidence was your repeated threats to kill the complainant and your change of mood.
'On the one hand you were a sexual aggressor, then you almost completely switched to the role of boyfriend, talking to her in a normal way.'
Judge Burn was so concerned about him he ordered a transcript of his sentencing remarks to be sent to the governor of the prison.
He said: 'In my judgement there's a very substantial risk that you will commit further serious offences in the future and your conduct will cause serious harm to your victim or victims.'
As McCann was given a life sentence, with a minimum of nine years before he can be released on parole, he yelled out: 'B*******, you don't know me. F*** all you c****.'
He also warned the prison guards not to touch him as he was led away.
McCann's furious family were then escorted out of the building by 12 officers after shouting at the judge for jailing their 'innocent' son.
Crown Prosecution Service London reviewing lawyer Andrew Held said: 'This was a terrifying, violent and prolonged attack involving rapes committed by a man intent on inflicting fear and psychological suffering.
'The strong prosecution case which led to today's guilty pleas included victim testimony, an ID parade, CCTV footage, and bad character evidence based on a similar rape committed by McCann in 2006.
'I would like to thank McCann's victim for her courage in helping bring this prosecution and hope his conviction provides some sense of justice for her.'
Theresa May will today tell Nicola Sturgeon to stop playing games with Scotlands future, warning that the UK needs to come closer together with Brexit rather than further apart.
The Prime Minister will say maintaining the Union is a personal priority as she savages the First Minister for tunnel vision in which she sees independence as the solution to every problem.
In a scathing speech at the Scottish Tory party conference in Glasgow, Mrs May will claim that schools in Scotland are now performing worse than those in parts of Eastern Europe because of the nationalists obsession with independence.
Prime Minister Theresa May will today warn the Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon that the UK needs to come 'closer together' following Brexit rather than further apart
In an article for the Scottish Daily Mail last night, the Prime Minister gave her strongest indication yet that she will rebuff Miss Sturgeon if, as expected, she demands the power to hold a new referendum on independence.
She wrote: The SNP will always try to denigrate our United Kingdom to further their obsession with independence. But I am equally determined to ensure the truth about our United Kingdom is heard loudly and clearly.
As Britain leaves the EU and we forge a new role for ourselves in the world, the strength and stability of our own Union will become even more important.
We must take this opportunity to bring our United Kingdom closer together. Mrs May accused the SNP leader of using her position to agitate for independence rather than improve the lives of people in Scotland and said her record of neglect and mismanagement was a scandal.
Politics is not a game and should never be treated as such. It is a serious business, centred on improving peoples lives, she wrote.
Scottish schools, which once led the world in setting the highest standards of attainment, are now outperformed in every category by schools in England, Northern Ireland, Estonia and Poland.
Mrs May will say maintaining the Union is a personal priority as she accuses the First Minister of tunnel vision in which she sees independence as the solution to every problem
Education has been fully devolved since 1999 and under the SNPs stewardship for ten years. But standards have fallen, the attainment gap remains and Scottish young people are losing out.
In her speech today, Mrs May will add: People in Scotland deserve a First Minister who is focused on their priorities raising standards in education, taking care of the health service, reforming criminal justice, helping the economy prosper, improving peoples lives.
My first visit as Prime Minister was to Scotland. I wanted to make clear that strengthening and sustaining the bonds that unite us is a personal priority for me.
A University Of Illinois student accused of suffocating her newborn son shortly after giving birth in her dorm's bathroom is set to plead guilty, her legal team said Thursday.
Lindsay Johnson, 20, of Monee, has decided to take a plea deal, her lawyers told the Chicago Tribune. They didn't specify which charges she would plead guilty to during the hearing in April.
The agricultural communications major faced up to 75 years behind bars if convicted of first-degree murder in her baby's death.
Johnson told investigators she gave birth inside a bathroom at her residence hall in Champaign in March, then tried to quiet him with her hand or a towel, according to the state's attorney's office.
Lindsay Johnson (pictured in March last year), 20, of Monee, is accused of killing her newborn son and will plead guilty as part of a plea deal, her lawyers said Thursday
'With the loving support of her family, Lindsay has made the difficult decision to enter into a plea agreement in April that will resolve the criminal charges filed against her,' the 20-year-old's lawyers said in a statement to the Chicago Tribune.
Johnson faced charges of murder, child endangerment and concealment of a homicidal death.
She gave birth to her son at Bousfield Hall on March 13, and killed him shortly afterwards, according to prosecutors.
Police were called to check on a student who had been inside the bathroom for several hours.
The student (pictured in a mugshot) gave birth to her son inside a bathroom at Bousfield Hall in Champaign on March 13, and killed him shortly afterwards, according to prosecutors
Police were called to check on a student inside the bathroom at Bousfield Hall (pictured) and said they later found Johnson with the dead baby in her backpack
There, they said they found evidence of childbirth and later found Johnson on campus, wearing a backpack with the dead newborn inside.
The student first told them that she had given birth to the baby earlier, but that the boy wasn't breathing at the time, according to the state's attorney's office.
But she changed her story after a witness said they had heard a baby crying, authorities said.
Investigators found searches made from Johnson's phone about pregnancy, miscarriages, and home abortions, the state's attorney's office said.
Johnson's next court hearing is scheduled on April 7.
John McDonnell, Shadow Chancellor, yesterday agreed to try to patch things up with Peter Mandelson. Mongoose to cobra, I say, snake, shall we have a breather?
We had been summoned to a penthouse room at the top of the Royal Festival Hall for a mid-morning speech by Mr McDonnell. Ostensibly the event was arranged to promote Labours economic arguments before next weeks Budget but the partys in-fighting proved a hotter source of interest.
In recent days Lord Mandelson said he was working every day to undermine Jeremy Corbyn (the only surprising thing about this was that anyone was surprised). And Tony Blair made that Norma Desmond speech blaming Mr Corbyns leadership for the Lefts Brexit difficulties. The Blairites are furious with Mr Corbyn for not being more anti-Brexit.
Mr McDonnell, who is Mr Corbyns political bodyguard, responded by asserting that there was a soft coup being attempted to topple Mr Corbyn. This revolution was planned, coordinated and fully resourced and the very existence of Labour was possibly in doubt. Mr McDonnell said the plotters were elements in the Labour Party and the Murdoch media empire. Cue some sulphurous organ chords.
John McDonnell summoned Quentin Letts to the Royal Festival Hall for a pre-budget speech
He made it sound rather John le Carre certainly more exciting than the puddle of Labour activists who gathered at yesterday mornings do. Most of them were middle-aged men, the sort who wear anoraks, rubber soles and creased plastic bags.
The one flash of colour came from a woman in the front row. She had dyed her hair a startling red. As some of us shielded our eyes, a columnist from Grazia fashion magazine squinted painfully at the apparition and reported that the colour was somewhere between orangey carmine and candy-pink with an undertow of grey roots.
Meanwhile, a chap beside the red-haired woman wore an ironic pork-pie hat. He had the look of someone who might once have auditioned for the pop group Madness. It was all quite Citizen Smith.
I digress. Mr McDonnell was plainly bursting to talk about his partys civil war. We had expected him to say something along the lines of policies are more important than personalities but no, he eagerly accepted soft coup questions from the Daily Mirror and the BBC.
Labours factions needed to unite, he said in a gritty monotone. Referring to last weeks by-election in Cumbria, in which Labour lost a seat badly to the Conservatives, he explained: All of us have looked over the cliff of Copeland and said we dont want to go there. The most important thing is to unite.
I know Ive got a pugnacious approach. I need to learn a few lessons. And that is holding out a hand, from us in Momentum, to those people in Progress and, yes, Peter Mandelson. You heard it here first.
Mr McDonnell urged Chancellor Philip Hammond not to ignore the the NHS as his sets out his fiscal plans ahead of next week's budget
Leftist hard man McDonnell offers to hold Peter Mandelsons hand. Well, well. Along the way, he made markedly more anti-Brexit noises than we have recently heard from the Labour leadership.
As reconciliation scenes it still needed some work before Hollywood producers are on the line to buy up the rights. Miss Dannii Minogue had a song called Kiss and Make Up but that was not quite yesterdays mood. The Corbyn crowd do not radiate as much confidence as they did pre-Copeland.
Mr McDonnells tone was that of a grazed-kneed gurrier who has been told by his mum to make friends with an arch-enemy in the playground and has duly mumbled a few unwilling words to say he will stop trying to beat him up. The truce may not last long.
Sir John Major this week in a bout of Tory in-fighting mentioned Rudyard Kipling. To return to the mongoose analogy, Kiplings tale of little Rikki-Tikki-Tavi showed that cobras need to be fought long and hard. The mongoose who lets go of the snakes neck may soon become an easier target for venom. Mr McDonnell should beware.
The Liberal Democrats have ordered 90 camp beds so that their peers can stay overnight in Parliament in a bid to thwart Theresa Mays Brexit plans.
The party is preparing for a late-night stand-off with MPs as they seek to scupper the Brexit Bill, which gives the Prime Minister authority to begin leaving the EU.
Mrs May is determined to push ahead with triggering Article 50, which starts the process of quitting the EU, in the next few weeks despite the Lords inflicting her first parliamentary defeat over Brexit on Wednesday night.
Mrs May is determined to push ahead with triggering Article 50, which starts the process of quitting the EU, in the next few weeks
But she could face a Tory rebellion in the Commons that ties her hands in negotiations and a final push by the Lords to cause problems.
Ministers hope MPs will strip out any amendments added by the Lords to dictate the terms of Brexit when the Bill returns to the Commons on March 13.
The Lib Dems yesterday held urgent strategy talks to discuss how they hope to retain these changes in a stand-off between the Lords and the Commons.
Baroness Smith of Basildon, the Labour leader of the Lords, has said peers are unlikely to fight further if MPs vote down their amendments.
But the Lib Dems hope to persuade pro-Remain peers to help them ping-pong amendments between the houses. Despite having just nine MPs, the party has 102 unelected peers in the Lords.
Some 90 folding beds have been ordered by the party in preparation for all-night sessions so they can be ready to vote at any point during the night. The peers will camp out in their offices.
A party strategist said: We are planning for every eventuality and preparing for all-night sessions. If that means pizza and food delivery at 3am then so be it. We have plans in place for sleeping bags and beds for our peers.
We think this matters and [Lib Dem leader] Tim Farron has said we will go through the lobbies time after time to defend the rights of 3.3million EU nationals who live and have made their home here.
A party strategist said Lib Dem leader Tim Farron (pictured) plans to 'go through the lobbies time after time to defend the rights of 3.3million EU nationals'
'We are also committed to fighting tooth and nail to give the people a final say on the deal.
Tory MP Andrew Rosindell accused the Lib Dems of desperation, saying: It seems they will go to any possible length to undermine the democratic wishes of the people This is all unnecessary as the British people have voted in a referendum that we should leave the EU and the House of Commons has backed invoking Article 50.
I dont see what the Liberal Democrats think they are achieving many on the Remain side now want this matter to be got on with and not dragged on any longer. It looks like they are desperate.
Peers voted on Wednesday to amend the Bill, to force the Government to guarantee unilaterally the post-Brexit rights of 3.3million EU citizens living in the UK even though the EU has refused to discuss the rights of 1.2million Britons living in other member states.
Ministers made clear their intention to overturn the vote when the legislation goes back to the Commons this month.
Some 90 folding beds have been ordered by the party in preparation for all-night sessions so they can be ready to vote at any point during the night. The peers will camp out in their offices
But they face the prospect of a second defeat in the Lords next week on another opposition amendment, which would require Parliament to be given a meaningful vote on Britains final withdrawal.
The Government has promised a vote on any agreement with the EU, but opponents fear that if there is no deal the UK will simply leave, without Parliament able to intervene.
The amended Bill will go back to the Commons on March 13-14, when ministers are confident MPs will remove the amendment on EU citizens living in the UK. But pro-Remain Tories could join Labour and the Lib Dems to support the amendment on a meaningful vote.
When MPs voted on a similar amendment last month it was rejected by a majority of 33, with seven Tory MPs rebelling.
Europhiles believe that if it returns to the Commons, MPs could be emboldened by the defeats in the Lords and more pro-Remain Tories could be persuaded to rebel.
Aldi is launching online sales in China using Australian suppliers.
The German discount supermarket chain is hoping to appeal to Chinese consumers interested in German brands with a selection of wine, snack and breakfast products.
The company will sell its own brand products via online platform Tmall Global, operated by Alibaba, and will use its Australian suppliers to serve the Chinese market, it said on Thursday.
Aldi said an initial 'soft launch' on March 20, which typically sees a product offered to a limited audience, will be followed by a full launch event in Shanghai on April 25.
The discount supermarket chain is launching online sales in China using Australian suppliers
'We know there is a strong demand among Chinese consumers for Australian manufactured products and our goal is to provide a competitively priced alternative for shoppers seeking quality groceries,' an ALDI spokesman said.
'We believe our unique offer of high-quality Australian products at unbeatable prices will be an attractive proposition for Chinese consumers.'
A source with knowledge of Aldi's China operation told the Sydney Morning Herald that the company is moving 'slowly and sensibly' in the country with orders increasing only slightly from March until August.
And a spokesman for ALDI Australia confirmed to Daily Mail Australia that the company has been undertaking feasibility studies in China for several years before deciding to enter the world's biggest market of almost 1.4billion customers.
The German discount supermarket chain is hoping to appeal to Chinese consumers with a selection of wine, snack and breakfast products
The company will sell its own brand products via online platform Tmall Global
'ALDI has enjoyed strong and long lasting relationships with many of our Australian suppliers since our first stores opened in 2001,' an ALDI Australia spokesman said.
'Our growth across the country has provided increased business for these suppliers, allowing them to invest this back into their own operations and contributing to their success.
'We look forward to further expanding these relationships as we develop further opportunities in Asia.'
The company added that the move to China follows a rapid growth in the ALDI Australia business, which they will continue to invest in.
The company added the move to China follows a rapid growth in the ALDI Australia business
Rival Woolworths has already been selling products including baby formula, Weet-Bix cereal - through Tmall in China for more than a year.
Alibaba Europe manager Terry von Bibra said the Chinese middle-class was becoming more and more interested in 'Made in Germany' products.
The German discount chains are increasingly expanding abroad, with rival Lidl saying last month it would open its first stores in the United States this summer.
The Chinese foray is being run by Aldi South, which also owns Aldi US and runs the chain in Britain. It entered the Australian market more than 15 years ago.
For more than a decade, the Pakistani tribal area of North Waziristan has been the deadly epicentre of global terror.
This mountainous area on the remote Afghan border was the secure base from which Taliban and Al Qaeda warlords launched attacks across the world.
Many have been aimed at Britain.
The Pakistani army, pictured has been looking to reassert control over their northern border
The area of Waziristan is the location where the 7/7 bombings on London were planned
The area was also home to a plot to detonate liquid explosives on a trans Atlantic aircraft
For example, it was from here that Rashid Rauf (the Al Qaeda terrorist who at the time was described as one of the worlds most wanted) masterminded the 7/7 London bombings in 2005 which killed 52 and injured more than 770 people.
Rauf born in Pakistan but radicalised by a sect in Birmingham in his late teens after moving to Britain in the early Eighties was also suspected of being the ringleader of a foiled plot to detonate liquid explosives on a transatlantic plane in 2006, which a senior British policeman said would have caused mass murder on an unimaginable scale.
I have travelled regularly to Pakistan ever since the darkest days of the countrys descent into terror. At times, the country seemed on the verge of collapse. Indeed, at one point it was regarded by global intelligence agencies, including Britains MI6, as the most dangerous state in the world.
This week, I was the first Western journalist in many years to travel to the North Waziristan capital, Miranshah.
Until recently, it was from these streets that Taliban commanders ordered public beheadings and Al Qaeda chiefs groomed innocent children as young as ten to be suicide bombers.
It seemed unimaginable back then that Al Qaeda and the Taliban would be driven out of Pakistans tribal territories. Yet the Pakistan army now claims that every last Taliban fighter has been expelled.
The Pakistani army cleared the city of Miranshah of the Taliban following a massive campaign
Until recently, the Pakistani Taliban had the run of the area grooming children as young as ten to become suicide bombers and performed public executions on the streets of the city
It is nothing short of miraculous that Pakistan survived after so many atrocities and disasters.
This, then, is a story of optimism; of how the men of terror can be taken on and defeated.
After a sustained assault, Pakistani troops managed to take control of Miranshah. The terrorists fled but left a scene of heartbreaking devastation.
Entire streets were reduced to rubble. The citys ancient market, once home to more than 600 shops, was flattened.
Pakistani troops have now expelled the Taliban from the region in a display of raw courage
The blight of terrorism in the area dates back to 9/11 in 2001, and the subsequent invasion of Afghanistan by the Western allies in revenge for the attacks on America.
In order to escape pursuing British and U.S. troops, Taliban and Al Qaeda forces, including the latter groups leader Osama Bin Laden, fled from their traditional strongholds in Afghanistan into the tribal areas of Pakistan.
They were safe here under the protection of local tribes, many of whom had strong links to Afghanistan.
In due course, the Taliban used their new bases in Waziristan to attack British and American forces in Afghanistan.
Thousands of foreign fighters, including British Jihadis such as Rashid Rauf, who had been a student at Portsmouth University and had worked for a bakery in Birmingham, flocked to join them.
The Pakistan army was duly placed under huge pressure from the West to attack the Taliban in these tribal hideouts.
After protracted battles, the Pakistan military finally managed to clear the region of its last terrorist stronghold. But not before the Taliban had launched numerous reprisal attacks inside Pakistan itself, engulfing the country in a bloody civil war that claimed tens of thousands of lives.
Pakistani troops took on and defeated the Taliban but left behind a scene of devastation
My guide, Major General Hassan Azhar Hayat, is understandably triumphant. He claims that the destruction of the city was a price that had to be paid as the only way of driving out the terror chiefs who he says had held the citizens of Miranshah hostage.
Now, local people who had been forced to flee are returning to their homes.
Hassan, who commands Pakistans 7th Division on the north-west frontier, drove me through the ruins to visit the site of a former Taliban bomb factory in a Miranshah suburb.
Cynically, Taliban warlords had located it in the middle of a densely populated area, in the belief that the military would never attack for fear of causing massive loss of civilian life.
The West put pressure on Pakistani authorities to take control of their northern tribal region
We found ourselves in what was once a sophisticated complex. The terror chiefs had left behind large containers for glycerin, ammonium nitrate, manganese and nitric powder as well as machines to convert these raw materials into bombs.
The bombs would be used with deadly effect in indiscriminate attacks which claimed thousands of lives, almost certainly including those of British troops serving in Afghanistan.
Jihadist literature that was found at the site revealed that the factory was run by the Afghan Islamic Emirate popularly known as the Afghan Taliban.
There was still much evidence of the bomb-makers: at the entrance were gas masks and rubber gloves to protect them. In a bizarre touch that belied the deadly nature of this bomb factory, the living quarters were decorated with murals depicting rivers, orchards and idyllic scenes from the countryside.
This was one of a number which had been discovered in the two-year operation to recover North Waziristan from terrorist control. In total, the army found 310 tons of explosives, 25,000 rifles and more than two million bullets.
The military also uncovered a terrorist infrastructure that included a media centre hidden in the basement of a mosque, secret prisons where kidnap victims were held, and deep tunnels to protect fighters from precision bombs. Major General Hassan described it as the terrorists version of the Pentagon in America.
The Taliban hid out in the centre of a densely populated area believing they were safe
There was also a military college the Taliban equivalent to Britains Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst where fighters were trained.
The Pakistan Army is now convinced that after 15 years of pure horror it has won the war on terror in Pakistans tribal areas.
Statistics now show that terrorist violence in Pakistan has fallen by three quarters in the past two years.
Hassan told me: We feel there is no threat now. Weve operated against terrorists of all colours and creeds here. There are no no-go areas any more.
The truth would seem to be that the terrorists have either been killed or have fled across the border into Afghanistan, where, sadly, they have regrouped to launch assaults against Pakistan border positions. There had been seven attacks in the ten days before my visit.
To counter the threat, the Pakistan army has built more than 1,000 border posts to prevent terrorists crossing back into the country.
And there have still been terrible atrocities, such as a recent attack on the shrine of Sufi Saint Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan Sharif which killed 88 and left many horribly injured.
Yet, overall, the progress against the terror cells has been remarkable. At the height of the attacks from North Waziristan three years ago, Pakistans commercial capital of Karachi was ranked the sixth most dangerous city in the world. Now, violence has fallen so sharply it ranks 32nd. Admittedly, the costs of this war have been horrifying. More than 4,000 Pakistan soldiers died in a conflict that it is no exaggeration to say has at times come close to bringing the country to its knees. Fighting the terrorists has cost the country tens of billions of pounds, and has had devastating consequences on the nations people.
At one point, terrorists controlled territories less than 100 miles from the capital, Islamabad. There were even fears that the Taliban might seize control of Pakistans nuclear warheads.
As ever in the world of terrorism, there is a wider context to these local issues.
During a two-year period, the Pakistanis recovered 310 tonnes of explosives, 25,000 rifles and more than two million bullets - and even a media centre hidden under a Mosque
Speaking privately, Pakistan military strategists blame Tony Blairs misguided decision to invade Iraq to remove Saddam Hussein in 2003 as the trigger for their countrys descent into horror.
One general told me that the Wests war against Saddam distracted world leaders from the fight against the Taliban and Al Qaeda at a crucial moment, allowing terrorists to regroup in Pakistans tribal areas.
With passion, he told me: One day, Mr Blair will be tried as a war criminal.
Meanwhile, officially, the Pakistan military says the task today is no longer to defeat the Taliban in battle but to rebuild the city of Miranshah. Originally, the area developed after a key fort was built here by the British in 1905 to control North Waziristan and it was said that there could have been no place more dangerous in the whole of the British Empire.
The Pakistani authorities are busy building schools, hospitals and a market to replace the one destroyed in the fighting. In effect, this means the construction of an entire new city.
I was taken to the Golden Arrow High School which is due to open its doors to 1,000 students next month. Its chemistry classes, computer laboratory and library are said to be equal to any high school in the world.
Schools such as this will provide a desperately needed alternative education to that provided by the madrassas (Islamic religious schools) which have been breeding grounds for terror in this part of the world for many years.
Speaking to locals, there are raw memories of the horror of living under the Taliban.
One old man told us how he saw dead bodies of men left on the ground of the town bazaar after they had been executed because they were considered to be spies.
Inevitably, the success of the Islamabad governments operation to clear out the terrorists has been questioned by some.
Mohsin Dawar, a lawyer who was brought up in Miranshah but now works in Islamabad, claims that not all terrorists have gone. He said he had seen militants standing next to us in the queues as people were led back into the city and he questioned whether any real objective had been achieved.
Lets hope he is wrong.
In the nearby city of Peshawar, I visited the army school where 144 children and staff had been killed in an appalling attack by the Taliban. Today, though, a party was being held to celebrate students who were departing the school.
Munib, a 17-year-old student who had survived the attack, said he was still haunted by the memories of his dead friends. They still visited him in his dreams.
I asked him his ambition. I plan to become a doctor and work in their memory.
This is the indomitable spirit that gives the world hope that Pakistan has escaped from an age of unspeakable bloodshed and that the men of terror can be defeated.
Households have been told to brace themselves for another flood of nuisance calls from claims firms after the City watchdog yesterday set a final deadline for PPI complaints.
In an effort to draw a line under the most expensive mis-selling scandal in Britain, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) said anyone who thinks they were mis-sold payment protection insurance will have to complain by August 29, 2019.
The watchdog will start a two-year communications campaign from August this year to alert consumers, but said consumers who intend to complain 'should do so as soon as possible'.
Households have been told to brace themselves for another flood of nuisance calls from claims firms after the City watchdog yesterday set a final deadline for PPI complaints
More than 26billion has already been paid out to customers mis-sold PPI alongside loans, credit cards, store cards and car finance.
But the City watchdog's deadline is expected to cause another wave of claims, pushing the final tally above the 35billion mark - which is the amount banks and building societies have set aside for pay-outs.
Lloyds alone has set aside 17billion for the scandal.
Consumer campaigners last night warned 'no win no fee' claims management firms would be ramping up their marketing activity following the FCA's announcement, sending out millions more nuisance text messages and cold calls to customers to persuade them to lodge a claim.
Some firms have recently splashed out on new expensive TV adverts, with We Fight Any Claim, hiring former Monty Python star John Cleese to front its campaign.
Although the mis-selling scandal emerged more than a decade ago, regulators are concerned many people have yet to complain often because they are unaware they were sold PPI in the first place.
Andrew Bailey, chief executive of the FCA, said: 'Putting in place a deadline and campaign will mean people who were potentially mis-sold PPI will be prompted to take action rather than put it off. We believe that two years is a reasonable time for consumers to decide whether they wish to make a complaint.
The FCA's deadline is expected to cause a wave of fresh PPI claims and Lloyds alone has set aside 17billion for the scandal
'We have carefully considered the feedback we received and we still believe that introducing a deadline for PPI complaints and a communications campaign warning of the deadline will benefit consumers.'
Chief ombudsman Caroline Wayman said earlier this week that while PPI complaints had recently drifted downwards, 'there are some suggestions that this could be the calm before the storm'.
She said the PPI deadline could cause a surge in complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service, which deals with disputes if they are rejected by companies.
Some consumer groups have welcomed the deadline, arguing it gives customers plenty of time to complain if they haven't already.
But others have objected to the cut- off point, as they say it rewards banks and building societies which are still routinely rejecting legitimate complaints.
Figures released this week by the financial ombudsman which only looks at a dispute once it has been rejected by a bank - showed that PPI continues to make up just over half of the complaints it receives.
Andrew Bailey, chief executive of the FCA, said the watchdog believe two years in 'reasonable time for consumers to decide whether they wish to make a PPI complaint
Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, said: 'The deadline is a mistake. The stats are plain. Flabbergastingly, in over half of all cases where after the bank rejects a PPI reclaim people take it to the independent ombudsman, the bank's rejection is overturned.
'Until we can trust banks to deal with complaints fairly in the first instance, this move to protect their balance sheets should not happen. It is putting the protection of the financial industry ahead of consumers.'
Mr Lewis also predicted the deadline would prompt an upswing in spam PPI calls as claims firms try to cash in.
Urging consumers to act themselves, he said: 'PPI was systemically mis-sold on loans, credit and store cards, and commonly mis-sold on mortgages and overdrafts.If you've had one of those in the last 20 years, check if you've got the paperwork, and if so if it had PPI on it. And ensure you reclaim for free - there's lots of help out there, you don't need to pay someone.'
Consumer group Which? said many people have been driven to use claims management companies after being fobbed off by their bank.
Vickie Sheriff, the group's director of campaigns and communications, said: 'It's been clear for years that the banks should be working much harder to resolve PPI claims fairly. The current process has been wholly inadequate and driven too many consumers to use claims management companies.
'Now the regulator has confirmed a deadline for the victims of this mis-selling scandal to make a claim, it must ensure that banks are doing much more to help customers get back the money they are owed.'
MPs have raised major concerns about the Governments ability to deliver major rail projects after the bungled upgrade of the Great Western railway.
In a report published just weeks before construction of the 56billion High Speed 2 line gets under way, the Commons Public Accounts Committee has delivered a withering assessment of both the Department of Transport and Network Rail.
MPs said it was staggering unacceptable that the estimated cost of electrifying the Great Western Main Line between London Paddington and Swansea had soared by 1.2billion in just a year.
The committees chair Meg Hillier said this was a stark example of how not to run a major project and criticised the appalling waste of taxpayers money .
MPs have raised major concerns about the Governments ability to deliver major rail projects after the bungled upgrade of the Great Western railway
The report pointed out that the upgrade will be delayed for up to three years, with the Department for Transport having to spend an extra 330million to keep old diesel trains running.
In the course of the committees inquiry, Network Rail has admitted failing to plan the project properly before starting construction, which led it to underestimate the costs.
This included failing to put in place a plan to get more than 1,800 separate permits from local authorities for works that could affect protected species or listed buildings.
The report said the Department for Transport also failed to manage the project properly and challenge Network Rails plans effectively, despite the very significant sums of public money at risk.
This includes initially being liable to pay 400,000 a day to lease new electric trains which could not be used until the overhead electrification was complete.
Faced with delays the Department for Transport eventually asked the Treasury to cancel its order for 21 electric trains and lease bi-mode trains instead which are capable of running on non-electrified tracks.
Meg Hillier, the Labour chair of the cross party PAC said: Mismanagement of the Great Western programme has hit taxpayers hard and left many people angry and frustrated. This is a stark example of how not to run a major project, from flawed planning at the earliest stage to weak accountability and what remain serious questions about the reasons for embarking on the work in the first place.
The sums of public money wasted are appalling not least the 330 million additional costs the Department for Transport will have to pay to keep the trains running because of delays to electrification.
Protestors dressed as otters demonstrating against the planned High Speed 2 rail line
She added: The Department failed to adequately challenge Network Rails plans to carry out the infrastructure work and, even now, casts doubt on whether electrification work on this and other lines is even necessary.Government accepts it got this project badly wrong and must now demonstrate it has learned the lessons.
The previous government announced plans to electrify the Great Western Main Line in 2009. Great Western and the Midland Main Line were the last of the main line routes in the UK using diesel trains.
The project, which began in June 2010, involves erecting an overhead electric cable along 625 miles of track, connecting London, Reading, Oxford Newbury, Bristol, Cardiff and Swansea.
A new fleet of trains has been bought to replace the old diesel ones and the stations also have to be upgraded.
Ministers said the upgrade would cut journey times while newer trains would have 25 per cent more seats.
Senior police officers failed to investigate the death of a one-year-old baby because it happened before the weekend and they wanted time off, it was revealed yesterday.
A senior detective who ran the bodged inquiry into the death of Poppi Worthington explained that nothing was done because it was a weekend and we were off.
The excuses of Detective Inspector Amanda Sadler were among a string of failures disclosed in a report by the Independent Police Complaints Commission, which was made public more than four years after the 13-month-old died in hospital from injuries inflicted in a horrific sexual attack.
The report accused two senior detectives of gross misconduct in the case, a level of professional wrongdoing that in most businesses and public services results in instant dismissal.
Poppi Worthington was found dead with serious injuries at her home
However DI Sadler and Detective Superintendent Mike Forrester were allowed to retire rather than face punishment and public exposure.
Miss Sadler, a former beauty queen who was once crowned Miss Great Britain, was first spared the embarrassment of a public disciplinary hearing, and was then demoted rather than sacked prior to her retiremment.
The report also criticised the actions of Michelle Skeer, now the Deputy Chief Constable of Cumbria, the force responsible for the botched investigation.
John Woodcock, the Labour MP for Barrow, where Poppi died, called the officers retirement shocking. He added: Theresa May, who was Home Secretary when the Poppi fiasco occurred, should agree to reform policing so officers convicted of gross incompetence are sacked not reshuffled.
It is likely that Poppi will never have the justice she deserves but this at least should be a legacy of her terrible death.
Police failure to run a competent investigation means there have been no criminal charges because of lack of evidence. However a High Court judge has found that Poppi died following sexual assault by her father, supermarket worker Paul Worthington, 49, at her home in December 2012.
A High Court judge found that Poppi died following sexual assault by her father, supermarket worker Paul Worthington
Yesterdays IPCC report said officers tried only to establish that Poppi died from constipation, as claimed by her parents, and did not pursue any criminal line of inquiry, even though officers were aware of the fathers past.
They failed to secure her home, and allowed forensic evidence to be thrown away by a relative. They failed to keep records of their actions.
They ignored doctors who said Poppi had been attacked, and the report said the decision of Mr Forrester not to send for analysis a forensic swab taken from Mr Worthington was hard to comprehend.
The failures of Cumbria police were not a one-off, the report said. It found there had been a trend of not recording offences immediately and that investigations were being conducted with a view to recording a crime rather than recording a crime and then conducting the investigation. This was happening especially in sexual offences investigations.
Miss Sadler had said of the babys death, which happened on a Wednesday morning, that theres a real shame that there was a weekend involved, the IPCC report said.
It declared: This is evidence which might be considered as relevant to support the view that the investigation into the death of Poppi was not conducted thoroughly or appropriately.
A third, unidentified, detective, was said to be guilty of unsatisfactory performance
It added that Mrs Skeer and a colleague should have referred the case to the IPCC a lot sooner than they did.
The report added: It is incidents such as this that can undermine the publics confidence in the police complaints process, the report said.
The conduct of police, social workers and medical staff in the case was hushed up for three years. At one stage Cumbria council tried to persuade a court to ban all public reporting of the death until 2029 on the grounds that disclosure of alleged shortcomings by agencies might be unfair to the agencies.
The IPCC report was completed in March 2015 but has been held unpublished. An inquest into Poppis death the second to be held is expected this autumn.
An inquest into Poppis death the second to be held is expected this autumn
IPCC Commissioner Carl Gumsley said: This is an extremely sad case. It is clear from the evidence presented that Cumbria Constabularys original inquiry into Poppis death was not fit for purpose with many inquiries not being actioned for several months.
Cumbria Chief Constable Jerry Graham made his second apology over the case, but added: The public can be reassured that we have used the intervening time to ensure that our officers and staff are properly trained and equipped to undertake serious and complex investigations of this type.
Mr Woodcock said: This long suppressed report shows the scale of Cumbria polices failings are even worse than we thought. On top of all the other indications, it is chilling that Poppis father was not investigated for many months despite the police holding relevant intelligence on him, as the report reveals.
Cumbrias police force must now demonstrate clearly the ways in which they have improved safeguards so the incompetence of individual officers can never again fail to be noticed for so long. It is also inexcusable that Amanda Sadler was retained in a senior role despite her proven gross incompetence playing a major role in denying Poppi justice.
Some Australian companies are considering introducing 'love contracts' after a number of high profile affairs, including Amber Harrison's (pictured) relationship with Seven West CEO Tim Worner
After a string of scandals surrounding high-profile workplace relationships, some Australian companies are considering introducing 'love contracts'.
These agreements, which are common in the U.S., mean staff are required to disclose any office romances, especially between managers and junior employees.
In recent weeks both Seven West Media and QBE have been embroiled in scandals involving managers having affairs with assistants.
However, some have criticised the contracts, saying they could unfairly disadvantage women in the workplace who are often the ones forced to leave companies when things turn sour.
'No serious board can tolerate just assuming the woman should be the scapegoat in these situations, as they have been in the past,' RBA board member Katherine Wagg told The Australian.
Ms Harrison and Mr Worner (above) were involved in an ugly public spat earlier this year following the breakdown of their affair a few years earlier
RBA board member Katherine Wagg said contracts could unfairly disadvantage women
'Being female, I'm concerned women are disadvantaged, which often seems the case when they end up leaving organisations,' Ms Wagg, who is also the president of Chief Executive Women, added.
Love contracts stipulate that employees must disclose any relationships to the company.
In many cases, the staff member in the higher position would be required to change roles, not the more junior employee.
The discussion comes in the wake of a number of high profile cases such as the affair between Seven West CEO Tim Worner and his executive assistant, Amber Harrison.
The duo were involved in a very public spat following the breakdown of their relationship.
On Monday it was revealed QBE CEO John Neal (above) had his bonus slashed by more than $550,000 because he didn't disclose a romantic relationship with his executive assistant
Ms Harrison even released the pair's explicit text messages.
On Monday it was revealed QBE CEO John Neal had his bonus slashed by more than $550,000 because he didn't disclose a romantic relationship with his executive assistant.
It is understood that Mr Neal's pay was docked because he failed to notify the board in a timely fashion of his relationship a breach of the company's code of conduct.
According to Nine Honey, 50 per cent of Australians will have a relationship with someone they work with during their life.
A woman shot in the chest by a mystery gunman is the mother of man who threw Molotov cocktails into the home of Carl Williams' father.
On Thursday at 11.50pm, police were called to a house in Glenroy, Melbourne's north, to find Leonie Stuart, 52, with a gunshot wound to her chest.
Her husband, Stephen Phillips, tried to force his way past police tape after arriving at the home on Friday morning with two of the couple's sons and said he 'knew who did it'.
Ms Stuart is the mother of Rodney Phillips, who pleaded guilty and will soon be sentenced for his involvement in shooting a police officer in 2015, after he allegedly threw the Molotov cocktails, The Age reported.
On Thursday at 11.50pm, police were called to a house in Glenroy, Melbourne's north, to find Leonie Stuart, 52, (pictured with her husband Stephen) with a gunshot wound to her chest
Ms Stuart (left) is the mother of Rodney Phillips (right), who will soon be sentenced for his involvement in shooting a police officer in 2015
Phillips pleaded guilty to recklessly causing injury and to reckless conduct endangering the officer and his partner, as well as criminal damage, arson, and firearm possession.
The officer was following Phillips after he and his co-accused Sam Liszczak allegedly threw the Molotov cocktails at the home of George Williams.
Mr Williams, who died in 2016, is the father of notorious gangland figure Carl Williams.
After the Ms Phillips was shot overnight, her distraught husband arrived home at 6.30am on Friday and told reporters he 'knows who did it'.
According to neighbours, the gunman was wearing a motorbike helmet when he arrived at the property, 7News reported.
Mr Phillips was held back by their two sons as he tried to get past police tape while yelling at officers to 'not touch' him.
Ms Phillips is pictured here with her husband Stephen and four of her sons
The partner of a woman who was shot in the chest was held back by their two sons as he tried to get past police tape while yelling at officers to 'not touch' him
'Ask, but don't touch,' he yelled at officers while trying to get past the police tape
'Ask, but don't touch,' he yelled at officers while trying to get past the police tape.
Mr Phillips' son then stepped in to physically remove him from the front of the home.
Mr Phillips said he was driving all night 'in the truck' and was not home when the shooting happened.
His wife is fighting for life at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Ms Phillips' son spoke from outside the property, saying he was 'lost for words'.
'It's very surreal, very surreal,' he said, according to The Herald Sun.
On being asked what he knew about the shooting, the man reportedly said he 'knew who did it'
On being asked what he knew about the shooting, the man reportedly said he 'knew who did it'. The home where the woman was shot is pictured
Mr Williams, who died in 2016, is the father of notorious gangland figure Carl Williams (pictured)
Lecturers have been banned from using the phrases mankind and man-made as part of a universitys clampdown on gendered language.
Cardiff Metropolitan University says the politically correct words should be used to promote an atmosphere in which all students and staff feel valued.
The rules are laid out in the institutions Equal Opportunities Policy, which warns contraventions could result in disciplinary action.
University lecturers have been warned college students have to be protected against previously innocuous words which are now deemed as offensive such as 'sportsmanlike'
It says inclusive language must be used throughout all academic programmes to comply with the Equality Act as gendered words could be considered discriminatory.
Other rules include using forename instead of Christian name to avoid offending people of a diverse range of faiths.
And staff should avoid using the phrase wheelchair bound because it is patronising and pitying, while wheelchair user is empowering.
The document states: Should individuals consider that in the course of interaction with students or staff that this code has not been adhered to and that further action is required, there are two courses of action.
For students please refer to the Bullying and Harassment Policy. For staff members the Disciplinary procedure applies, as it does in the event of students talking inappropriately to staff.
It says that politically correct terminology can change but lists a range of examples of words and phrases which staff should avoid.
These also include best man for the job, forefathers, housewife, man in the street, manpower and right-hand man.
Even terms such as headmistress and headmaster as well as Mrs and Miss are considered offensive, according to the guide.
It also says staff should avoid falling into the trap of making assumptions based on your own cultural background.
Academics at Cardiff Metropolitan University have been warned about offensive language
And it advises alternating the order of the genders when talking about women and men, he or she, mother and father so that neither are given undue importance.
It adds: If the gender of the person is unknown, dont make an assumption, but use he or she or, where appropriate, use the plural they.
Sexuality can be a minefield too, according to the policy, which advises against the terms homosexual and heterosexual because they are laden with the values of a previous time.
The new words to use are same-sex and other-sex relationships, the documents advises.
For disability, the disabled is advised against and instead staff should refer to people with disability.
However, the policy adds: Dont be too anxious about the use of language, though.
Blind people do use terms like see you later and being too careful can make conversation painful for both parties.
It emerged amid growing concerns about a culture of censorship of normal language in universities across the country.
Critics warn that it is breeding a snowflake generation who demand safe spaces from ideas they might find offensive.
They have questioned how such students will be able to deal with the hazards of the real world when they emerge.
A spokesperson for Cardiff Metropolitan University said: The University is committed unreservedly to the principle of academic freedom within the law.
It is also committed to providing an environment where everyone is valued and treated with dignity and respect. These two commitments are cornerstones of academic life at the University.
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Mafia boss Rocco Arico was sentenced to 14 years jail after he was betrayed by a childhood friend turned informant.
The drug lord who ran organised crime in Brunswick, Melbourne, as his 'personal fiefdom' was convicted last month of drug trafficking, extortion and weapons charges.
The 38-year-old must serve at least 10 years and will likely be deported back to Calabria in Italy where he has not lived since he was a nine-month-old baby.
The Australia Tax Office is also trying to seize $10 million of his assets under proceeds of crime laws.
Mafia boss Rocco Arico was sentenced to 14 years jail after he was betrayed by a childhood friend turned informant
County Court Judge Geoffrey Chettle said Arico was a 'violent and dangerous man' and 'complete outlaw' who showed no remorse for his crimes as he sat emotionless in the dock.
He said the relationship between Arico and childhood friend Arthur Vouthas, who he extorted by threatening to shoot him and his brother-in-law over a drug debt, seemed 'like an episode of The Sopranos'.
The judge quoted Arico: 'If the money's not paid this week... I have had enough of this, see you later.'
'Your history for violence and shooting people make these threats real,' Judge Chettle said.
He referred to Arico's past kidnapping attempted murder convictions, where he shot a man six times in a road rage incident while driving gangster Carl Williams' car.
The drug lord who ran organised crime in Brunswick, Melbourne, as his 'personal fiefdom' was convicted last month of drug trafficking, extortion and weapons charges
Arico was jailed for seven years but emerged a more dangerous criminal with a web of contacts, leading the judge to say he was 'not a rehabilitated man'.
Police tried to bring the notoriously careful Ndrangheta mafioso down for years but were unable to get him until one of his closest associates turned against him, according to the The Age.
Vouthas grew up in Brunswick alongside Arico and became part of his crew, with Arico bringing his family pizza from the Lygon Street cafe his family owned, and helping him out when he was short on money.
Vouthas only agreed to turn against his lifelong mate after the pair's relationship soured over a drug deal gone wrong with Bandidos bikie Toby Mitchell.
He recorded damning conversations with Arico by wearing a wire, and gave evidence for 14 hours including enduring intense cross-examination.
Childhood friend Arthur Vouthas testified against him after they fell out over a drug debt from a botched deal with Bandidos bike Toby Mitchell (pictured)
Vouthas tried to get Arico off his back by falsely taking credit for the shooting of Mitchell in 2011 outside Doherty's Gym in Bruswick (pictured). Arico was enraged when he found out
It started when Vouthas saw a chance to make some easy money by selling $350,000 worth of Arico's cocaine to Mitchell for $375,000 in December 2010.
But Mitchell ripped him off and gave Vouthas a box of Ralph magazines instead of the cash, leaving him heavily in debt to Arico.
After refusing to kill Mitchell to wipe out the debt, Vouthas worked as a drug mule, smuggling ice interstate on flights for Arico.
Then in November 2011, Mitchell was shot six time outside Doherty's Gym in Brunswick, but survived, and Vouthas took credit to get Arico off his back.
Vouthas had paid back $300,000 of the debt and Arico had waived the rest, but when Arico found out he ended the friendship and demanded he pay up.
'He said that he let me off [$50,000], but now because I lied, I owed $50,000, which was fair enough, I guess,' Vouthas testified.
Arico began a campaign of vandalism and intimidation to get him to pay up, spraying 'Pay Your Bills' on Vouthas' car (pictured), letterbox and house
The 38-year-old must serve at least 10 years and will likely be deported back to Calabria in Italy where he has not lived since he was a nine-month-old baby
Arico began a campaign of vandalism and intimidation to get Vouthas to pay up, spraying 'Pay Your Bills' on his car, letterbox and house.
His back fence and house were set on fire, as was his father's car, and his windows smashed as his family slept.
By mid-2014 Arico had upped the debt to $110,000 and Vouthas began talking to detectives about flipping on his former friend.
He finally agreed to wear a wire in 2015, recording a conversation where Vouthas admitted his mistakes and Arico said he put him in a position where he made him 'go crazy'.
'How could you do it to me? You f**king came to my wedding. You ate on my table. You came to my restaurant. I've been in your house. How could we do this to each other?' Arico said.
Vouthas grew up in Brunswick alongside Arico and became part of his crew, with Arico bringing his family pizza from the Lygon Street (pictured) cafe his family owned
They seemed to be on a path to reconciliation, but when Vouthas' wife missed an appointment to refinance their house to pay the debt.
Arico was so enraged he dropped his guard and threatened Vouthas' family in a phone call that policed tapped - an uncharacteristic mistake.
'I know where he is and I've got friends of mine there with him [in prison in NSW]. He's gonna get a message very, very shortly. We'll start with (Vouthas' wife's) brother first, okay? And then we'll work out the rest after, okay?' he said.
That on top of the wire recording and Vouthas' testimony was enough for police and Arico was arrested the next week on the charges he will now be jailed for.
Eric Trump and his wife Lara have been pictured on the red carpet celebrating radio personality Elvis Duran's Walk of Fame ceremony.
Duran has been a permanent fixture on the New York City's radio for 20 years as the host of Z100's 'Elvis Duran and the Morning Show'.
His morning broadcasts are heard far beyond the New York City area though, as it is currently listed as the most-listened to Top 40 morning program in the country.
Eric Trump (L) and his wife Lara attended the Holly Walk of Fame ceremony on Thursday
Trump was pictured in good spirits during the ceremony and even stopped to take photos with a fan
The two were there to celebrate their friend Elvis Duran as he received his star on the Walk of Fame
On Thursday he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, on the same Block as his idols Jack Benny and Dick Clark.
Duran received the 2,603rd star in the category of radio during the ceremony, and was pictured grinning ear-to-ear and goofily posing next to it.
Eric Trump has had a relationship with Duran since he founded the Eric Trump foundation, which has donated close to $30million to the St Jude's Children's Research Hospital in California.
Eric Trump has had a relationship with Duran since he founded the Eric Trump foundation, which has donated close to $30million to the St Jude's Children's Research Hospital in California
Since then, the two have participated together and formed a team to benefit the St Jude's Give Thanks Walk, with the most recent walk taking place September 24, 2016.
Duran even attended Trump's wedding to Lara Yunaska at the Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach in 2014.
Now it is was their turn to celebrate Duran, by watching as he received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Duran received the 2,603rd star in the category of radio during the ceremony, and was pictured grinning ear-to-ear and goofily posing next to it
Also at the ceremony were Chris Martin of Coldplay (top right), Leron Gubler (bottom right), and LA Reid (top left)
Trump was pictured smiling and laughing with his wife Lara during the ceremony
Trump has been a guest on Duran's famous morning show many times, with his first appearance being in 2014.
At the ceremony Trump and his wife were spotted heading down the red carpet, waving to fans and even posing for selfies.
When the ceremony took place, Trump stood and clapped as he watched his friend receiving his star.
However, despite the relationship between Duran and Trump, he has stood behind his decision to make 'Elvis Duran and the Morning Show' a politically neutral program.
He said in an interview with Variety that it can get uncomfortable when his listeners assume things, but he wants to be clear that politics are not a part of his show.
Trump has been a guest on Duran's famous morning show many times, with his first appearance being in 2014
At the ceremony Trump and his wife were spotted heading down the red carpet, waving to fans and even posting for selfies
When the ceremony took place, Trump stood and clapped as he watched his friend receiving his star
For weeks now, Jasmine has endured sleepless nights and tearful days. She has spent hours on the phone trying to explain her plight to bureaucratic jobsworths. And she has been threatened with arrest and even prison.
There have been moments when she thought it might be better to give in and pay the 370 fine she received through the post for non-payment of the TV licence fee even though she doesnt actually own a television.
Instead, she has decided to have her day in court in this case, Court Seven of Stratford Magistrates Courts in East London. The days hearings consists solely of TV licence cases.
Jasmine's story turns out to be all too familiar. It began with a knock on the door last autumn from a TV licensing enforcement officer from Capita
The setting is as drab as they come. One of the lights has conked out and a bucket is filling with water leaking from the ceiling.
The only people present at this bleak assize are a district judge, a court clerk and a prosecutor from TV Licensing (which is contracted by the BBC to administer and enforce the television licensing system).
Jasmine, 23, has no lawyer with her. But the graduate from South London has come armed with a bundle of paperwork which, she says, proves her innocence.
Before she is even summoned in front of District Judge Jonathan Radway, the prosecutor invites her to a room for a private chat. He listens to her story, takes one look at her papers and promptly sends her on her way. The case against her is so flimsy it is not even worth hearing in court.
She leaves feeling part elated and part furious that she has been dragged through one of the most stressful episodes of her life because of yet another blunder by the private sector bullies hired to enforce the BBC licence fee.
It is a huge weight off my shoulders but I am so angry that these people can throw around words like arrest and prison when they are the ones at fault, she says. And I can tell you one thing for certain: I will never open the door to a stranger ever again.
Her story turns out to be all too familiar. It began with a knock on the door last autumn from a TV licensing enforcement officer from Capita, the outsourcing company which receives 58 million a year from the Government for chasing licence-dodgers.
Jasmine told him that she rented a bedroom in the house, that it had a communal television and that the landlord split the licence fee between the tenants. She gave her name and the man asked her to sign the paperwork.
In Court Seven of Stratford Magistrates Courts (pictured) in East London, the days hearings consists solely of TV licence cases
The next thing she knew was that letter on the doormat ordering her to pay a 170 fine for evading the licence fee, despite not having her own television.
She immediately contacted her landlord, who assured her that the property had a licence and even sent her a copy to put her mind at rest. She figured it must have been a simple error and thought no more about it until another letter arrived after Christmas informing her that her case had been heard and her fine increased.
Unless payment was received, she would be arrested. Jasmine decided to fight it all the way.
Ive never broken the law in my life and suddenly there I am crying down the phone to my mother about getting a criminal record, she tells me outside the courtroom.
She asks me not to print her full name because she works in television and says the whole business is extremely embarrassing for her.
The BBC itself has ordered an investigation, following the announcement Capitas chief executive Andy Parker is to step down from his job
But she is very grateful to the Mail for its campaign against Capitas sledgehammer tactics a campaign now backed by the Prime Minister while the BBC itself has ordered an investigation. It follows yesterdays surprise announcement that Capitas chief executive Andy Parker is to step down from his job.
An undercover Mail reporter had found that ruthless and underhand tactics are used by Capita under an aggressive incentive scheme in which hundreds of enforcement officers have orders to each identify 28 evaders a week. Among the vulnerable targeted were a war veteran with dementia and a desperate young mother in a womens refuge.
Jasmine has every sympathy with them. I did feel like I was some sort of criminal and then I read all these other stories in the Mail and realised that there are loads of people in the same situation, she says.
The only Capita representative I see at the court today is a taciturn enforcement officer. He has come to testify against another defendant Rashid, a construction worker from Romford caught watching television without a licence. Unlike Jasmine, Rashid hasnt bothered turning up.
Given that court papers reveal that he has a subscription to Sky and therefore a television he wouldnt have much of a defence anyway. The judge hands down a fine of 485.
But this guilty offender is very much in a minority.
Of 52 cases sent to this court by Capita today, just eight will result in a punishment. Three are appeals against earlier convictions, none successful, and there are a handful of adjournments.
But the majority of these cases are chucked out because the judge or the prosecutor or both decide that there is simply no point in proceeding. In some cases, people are being prosecuted despite not even living at the address in question.
One man has been prosecuted for not having a licence even though he is moving into a new home. Shockingly, one woman is contesting her conviction for not having a licence when it is perfectly clear that she had one all along.
I do wonder how that could occur, the exasperated judge wonders out loud, raising his eyes and dismissing yet another joke of a case.
One of the most shocking cases involves single mother Helen Jacovos, 27. She had missed one quarterly licence fee payment in 2015 after her brother had been involved in a serious accident.
The revelations come from an investigation by a Daily Mail undercover reporter interviewed for an enforcement job by Capita
She received a reminder, paid up the 37 and thought nothing more of it until a Capita heavy arrived last autumn to say that she had missed a payment. Although she could show an up-to-date licence, he pointed out that she had still admitted watching TV without one the previous year.
Three days before Christmas, bailiffs arrived demanding back-dated fines and costs of 956.
I got so panicky and upset and even began ringing family trying to raise the money, she says, but eventually I got through to the court who froze the action and gave me a court date.
The case is so ludicrous that the prosecutor chucks it out before it even comes before the judge.
I endured months of worry over 37. Im over the moon it is now over but I will be taking my complaint further, Helen tells me. I would love to know how it even got to this stage and especially where the figure of 956 came from.
She has a point. I would suggest that whoever replaces Capitas outgoing 2.68 million-a-year chief executive, he or she should do what I am doing and spend a day watching the consequences of the firms enforcers over-zealous, bonus-hungry door-knocking.
There are also, ironically, some disturbing trends which would surely appall the commissars in charge of the BBCs rigorous diversity standards (whose own salaries, of course, depend on the licence fee).
For example, there are twice as many women than men on todays court lists. Several have serious health problems. Perhaps half of those in court are from ethnic minorities, some of them with a very poor grasp of English.
Take, for example, Zohra Faizey, 38, of Manor Park. Originally from Afghanistan, she speaks very little English, a fact she tried to explain to the unsympathetic Capita inspector who knocked on her door last summer while her husband, a mechanic, was at work.
She also tried to explain that the family television was only used for video games. The officer wanted to enter the house to check. She agreed as long as he removed his shoes but he refused.
Mrs Faizey later received a fine through the post. And now she and her husband are contesting it in court through a family friend who has come to do the talking in the absence of an interpreter.
The judge hears that the household had subsequently acquired a licence and that this was a first offence.
According to BBC guidelines, first-time offenders who subsequently buy a licence should not be prosecuted. Inevitably, the judge throws it out and tells Mrs Faizey she is free to go.
Marco Serafini, 23, a bar worker originally from Italy, has turned up to contest a fine which he knew nothing about until he found that 200 had gone from his wages.
Last May, he answered the door to Capita enforcers who could see a television set through the window. Though it belonged to his landlord, he was asked to sign a document.
Having changed residence twice since then, he had no idea hed been prosecuted until money was deducted from his payslip. Fine enforcement agencies are entitled to do this if they obtain a National Insurance number. In a matter of minutes, the judge
dismisses the case and orders the money to be reimbursed.
Afterwards, Marco explains how the men from Capita cajoled him into incriminating himself. They got me to sign something on the doorstep which they said was an information letter for the landlord, he says.
I had already told them I didnt watch TV and the only set in the house was the landlords. I then moved house twice and didnt think any more of it.
He finds the whole process of being fined behind his own back quite worrying adding: They could have tried to speak to me first.
And so it goes on. There are, of course, several bogus dog ate my homework pleas today all of them rejected by the court.
Certainly, some defendants are trying it on, such as a hollow-cheeked man in a tracksuit who admits that he is something of a regular at these courts. He insists that he only uses his TV for video games. The judge points out his purchase of an expensive Sky TV package. Ive cancelled it, the man insists breezily.
The judge adjourns the case so that the man can bring in paperwork to show that he really has cancelled his Sky deal.
Afterwards, the defendant tells me that whatever happens, he wont pay his licence fee because the BBC employed Jimmy Savile.
Plainly, there are a lot of dishonest people among the estimated five per cent of English and Welsh viewers evading the licence fee (the figure is slightly higher in Scotland and Northern Ireland). They deserve all they get.
But there are many who are being pursued not in the name of protecting the BBC, but to meet agency bonus targets.
For its part, when asked for a reaction, Capita refers me to TV Licensing which, in turn, issues a statement insisting that prosecution is a last resort. It goes on: If there is a decision to prosecute, it is TV Licensings duty to provide proof beyond all reasonable doubt that an individual was unlicensed without good cause.
If that really is the case, then why are so many of todays pitiful cases even on the list to be heard?
And for how much longer will anyone open the door when Capita comes knocking?
If there is one video that is sure to give you nightmares, then this is it.
A man in Boston has filmed a rafter of turkeys circling a dead cat.
Jonathan Davis uploaded the creepy video to Twitter on Friday and it's quickly gone viral.
A spooky video of a rafter of turkeys circling a dead cat was uploaded to Twitter on Friday by Boston man Jonathan Davis
The video was captioned: 'These turkeys trying to give this cat its 10th life'.
Davis, who describes the 24-second video as 'the craziest thing I have ever seen', shows 17 turkeys walking in a circle around the lifeless cat.
What makes the video even more strange is that the cat is lying in the middle of a road.
Turkeys are omnivorous, meaning they will eat a wide range of foods but pretty much eat nuts, seeds and fruits.
They also don't usually eat dead animals.
Wildlife biologist Mark Hatfield told Gizmodo that the birds were probably just sizing up the cat.
'They're just making sure that it's no longer a threat,' Mr Hatfield said.
The British taxpayer will do its bit to fund a 'private army' to help protect MEPs, it has been revealed.
Despite voting to leave the European Union last year, Britain will help to foot the bill as part of a record 1.7billion spending spree by the European Parliament next year.
All in all, Britain will be expected to stump up 230million towards the costs.
Britain will also put forward 4.5million towards a 33.3million pro-EU propaganda campaign for the 2019 European elections.
Despite voting to leave the European Union last year, Britain will help to foot the bill as part of a record 1.7billion spending spree by the European Parliament next year
It comes as the EU's annual budget rose to 1,971,883,373, with an in-house unit of 46 bodyguards among the latest expenses.
According to The Times, the private army - called 'Unit Protection' - will be split among into two separate groups.
One, made up of 12 guards, will be tasked with protecting the parliament's president Antonio Tajani.
The remaining 34 will take on the mantle of an armed response unit and will only be answerable to the parliament's administration.
It comes after the European Parliament voted to lift the immunity from prosecution for French far-right leader Marine Le Pen for tweeting gruesome images of Islamic State violence, a crime that carries up to three years in prison in France.
The parliament's president Antonio Tajani (pictured) will have his own personal bodyguard of 12
The legislature voted by a broad majority in Brussels to clear the way for the possible prosecution of Le Pen over tweets she made in December 2015 showing executions, including the killing of American reporter James Foley by Islamic State extremists.
French prosecutors in the city of Nanterre had asked lawmakers to lift the immunity that Le Pen enjoys as a member of the European Parliament.
Le Pen, a leading candidate in this year's French presidential election, posted her tweets in response to a journalist who drew an analogy between her anti-immigration National Front party and IS extremists.
She was trying to show the difference between the two groups but the effort backfired, drawing widespread condemnation.
Le Pen took down the tweet showing the killing of Foley after his family protested, but left up another image of violence by Islamic State extremists.
Killer farmer Ian Turnbull has suffered a stoke behind bars, his son's lawyer says.
Turnbull, 82, and his wife are being sued by son Roger who claims the pair have broken a promise to hand over ownership of their farmland to him.
In court on Friday, Roger's lawyer Jean-Jacques Loofs asked for proceedings to be sped up because of Turnbull's age and the fact that he has suffered a stroke.
Ian Turnbull, 82, the farmer jailed for 35 years for shooting dead environment officer Glen Turner, 51, has suffered a stoke in jail, his son's lawyer has said
Mr Loofs gave no further information on exactly when the stroke occurred, or how far his health has deteriorated since.
Turnbull was jailed for 35 years in June 2016 for shooting NSW environmental officer Glen Turner, 51, and detaining his colleague Robert Strange.
The farmer confronted Mr Turner and Mr Strange as they carried out compliance work near the farmer's property at Croppa Creek in the state's north in 2014.
Turnbull shot Mr Turner with a rifle, wounding his jaw and nicking an artery in his neck, before chasing him around for 22 minutes.
Mr Turner eventually made a break for a treeline before Turnbull shot him in the back.
The murder came after years of tensions between Turnbull and environment workers over the illegal clearing of land.
Turnbull used this rifle (left) to shoot Mr Turner in the neck, chasing him around for 22 minutes before firing another fatal shot into his back
Mr Turner and his colleague Robert Strange had been sent to investigate illegal land clearing at Turnbull's farm when the attack took place
On Friday, Mr Loofs told Justice John Sackar the civil trial was expected to run or up to 10 days, saying it was desirable to get the matter dealt with as quickly as possible.
'If he is unwell, there may be a very good reason to expedite the hearing,' the judge said.
He agreed to make an order requiring Justice Health to provide their records from when Turnbull went into custody and raised the possibility of the son's lawyers requiring him to be medically examined.
The expedited application will return to court on Friday.
This is the moment a mystery 'woman' (pictured) in a headscarf was spotted out the front of the house of TV presenter Kelly Landry prompting her to call police
This is the moment a 'mystery woman' in a headscarf and large sunglasses was spotted out the front of the house of TV presenter Kelly Landry prompting her to go to the police.
Daily Mail Australia can exclusively reveal the unusual 15 seconds of vision that led to sensational scenes in a Sydney courtroom this week as police unsuccessfully sought to toughen up her AVO against estranged husband Anthony Bell.
The footage shows an unknown, stocky woman in headscarf, dark glasses and a pastel yellow dress peering into the gate of the Watson's Bay property in Sydney's east on the afternoon of February 22.
The video, shown in court, led to bizarre scenes on Thursday with Sydney to Hobart yacht race champion Mr Bell being quizzed over whether it was him wearing a wig, or if he had ever dressed up like a woman.
He denied it, or knowing anything about the 'disguised' woman at the front of the home.
The magistrate then even remarked he never imagined the unknown woman could be Mr Bell in disguise.
The mystery woman was seen peeking her head into Ms Landry's front gate the same afternoon a black Aston Martin drove by the property and a strange man took photographs of Ms Landry's home.
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Kelly Landry is seen leaving the courthouse on Thursday following the bizarre hearing
The footage shows the unknown woman in headscarf, dark glasses and a bright yellow dress peering into the gate of the Watson's Bay property
Celebrity accountant Anthony Bell arrived at court with his 85-year-old mother Shirley on Thursday
Ms Landry went to police claiming she believed Mr Bell had been near her home that day, driving past in his car, while there was an apprehended violence order in place between the pair.
But Mr Bell told the Downing Centre Local Court he was at his office at King Street Wharf at the time he supposedly drove past the waterfront home.
A security guard at his business's complex at Darling Harbour, Daniel Saluni, and his executive assistant, Melanie Santos, both said they saw him at work at the time he supposedly drove by.
He denied knowledge of the mystery woman or photographer.
'It wasn't me,' Mr Bell said, while under examination from his lawyer Chris Murphy.
'Do you own a wig?' he was asked.
'No,' said Mr Bell.
'Have you ever dressed up as a woman?' Murphy asked, to which Mr Bell replied: 'No'.
Magistrate Barnett then said, to laughter: 'It never even occurred to me that I was being asked to make a finding that was supposed to be your client in drag'.
The court heard Ms Landry went to police after her brother claimed he believed he had seen Mr Bell's distinctive Aston Martin out the front of her home.
'I don't want to alarm you but Anthony is out the front of your house,' her brother said in a phone call about 2.15pm, the court heard.
Kelly Landry is seen leaving the courthouse on Thursday after she went to police claiming Anthony Bell was seen outside her house
Ms Landry - seen fronting court over the matter in January - did not respond to reporters' questions outside court on Thursday
Ms Landry has mostly maintained her silence about the public battle with her husband
Police prosecutors said Ms Landry was concerned about Mr Bell stepping onto the jetty out the front of their home when picking up the children on two occasions.
They told the court she held 'genuine fears' and wanted the AVO varied to bar Mr Bell from coming within 50m of the property.
'Your Honour, they are, in this scenario, after what Ms Bell Landry believes is a drive by by Mr Bell in a (Aston Martin) Vanquish)'.
Believing Mr Bell was out the front made her 'stressed and anxious', she wrote in a statement to the ocurt.
Prosecutors argued Ms Landry's concern about the mystery woman and the photographer only added to her concerns after she believed Mr Bell had done a drive by.
But the application was rejected by Magistrate Barnett.
'I am not suggesting for one moment that the fears expressed by Ms Landry are not genuinely held by Ms Landry,' he said.
But he said the 'facts as she perceives them' didn't justify a change to the order, which prevents him from entering the premises where she resides.
Magistrate Barnett said the whole situation could be 'rectified' by Mr Bell understanding the exact conditions of the current order.
A hearing date for the AVO matter has been set for May.
The couple, pictured here in 2010, separated earlier this year after Ms Landry claimed Mr Bell pushed her and embarrassed her. Mr Bell has denied these claims
They are one of the most notorious gangs in America.
Founded by immigrants fleeing El Salvador's civil war more than two decades ago, MS-13 has rapidly grown to more than 10,000 members in 46 states.
Today it has the dubious honor of becoming the first street gang to be designated as an international criminal group.
Members are accused of major crimes including murder, kidnapping, prostitution, drug smuggling and human trafficking.
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Founded by immigrants fleeing El Salvador's civil war more than two decades ago, MS-13 has rapidly grown to more than 10,000 members in 46 states (Snoopy shows off his gang tattoos in 2006)
Members are accused of major crimes including murder, kidnapping, prostitution, drug smuggling and human trafficking (file picture)
This week, 13 Long Island members were indicted for seven counts of murder including the grisly killings of two high school girls who were beaten and hacked to death.
Meanwhile in Houston, two other gang members, who had a satanic shrine in their apartment, face charges of kidnapping a 14-year-old girl and murdering another.
The group's violence using a machete to hack a victim to death or shooting someone in the head in broad daylight, for instance surprised authorities and even rival gangs.
'They saw a level of violence that hadn't been seen before,' said Immigration and Customs Enforcement Special Agent Jason Shatarsky, adding that as the gang has expanded it has also become more sophisticated than many rivals.
Law enforcement officers take one of the suspected MS-13 street gang members into custody in Central Islip, New York Thursday, as more than a dozen members are charged with murdering high school students
Members, who have tattoos covering the body and face with gang iconography and the M.S. initials, often target recent immigrants to recruit for the gang
The gang founders took lessons learned from that brutal conflict to the streets of Los Angeles and built a reputation as one of the most ruthless and sophisticated street gangs, he added.
MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha gang, which is allied with several of Mexico's warring drug cartels, has a strong presence in Southern California, Washington and Northern Virginia, all areas with substantial Salvadoran populations.
Among the most high-profile killings attributed to MS-13 in Virginia was the 2003 slaying of a pregnant teenager who had become an informant. Brenda Paz, 17, was stabbed to death and her body was left along the banks of the Shenandoah River.
The gang that is terrorizing America: 10 illegal immigrant members of MS-13 among 13 arrested in New York for killing three high school students Thirteen members of the same gang were arrested in New York on Thursday for allegedly killing three high school students. The trio, including two best friends, were attacked with a machete and baseball bats as they walked through their suburban neighborhood. Thirteen alleged members of local cliques of the MS-13 street gang were charged with a slew of violent crimes and seven murders over a five year period, prosecutors and police announced. Among the dead: Brentwood High School students Nisa Mickens, 15, Kayla Cuevas, 16, who were ambushed by a carload of other teens on Sept. 13, and their former schoolmate Jose Pena-Hernandez, 18, whose corpse was found on the grounds of an abandoned state psychiatric hospital following his disappearance in June. Nisa Mickens, 15, (left) Kayla Cuevas, 16, (right) from Long Island, New York, were were ambushed by a carload of other teens on September 13 and killed. Thirteen members of the MS-13 gang were arrested on Thursday in connection with the slayings Advertisement
One of Trump's priorities is a crackdown on immigrants who are in the country illegally and have committed crimes.
He promised as much in his December interview with Time magazine, when he referenced a Newsday story about the killings.
'They come from Central America. They're tougher than any people you've ever met,' he said. 'They're killing and raping.
Members, who have tattoos covering the body and face with gang iconography and the M.S. initials, often target recent immigrants to recruit for the gang. They are allegedly involved in human trafficking, child prostitution, drugs and other serious offences.
In 2004, the US FBI started the MS-13 National Gang Task Force. The FBI also began teaming with law enforcement in El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico.
In October 2012, the US Department of the Treasury labeled the group a 'transnational criminal organization.'
The mother of the three-year-old who died from horrific sexual abuse said she had the chance to take her away from her father but the little girl 'loved him too much'.
Matthew Lee Williamson has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of his daughter Kyhesha-Lee Joughlin after she died in 2013 from an infected internal injury following the abuse at the Petrie unit, north of Brisbane.
The court heard the young girl was tied with rope to her bed, and regularly sexually abused.
Kyhesha-Lee's distraught mother Danielle Joughin said the little girl 'went through hell' and she 'blames herself'.
Matthew Lee Williamson has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of his daughter Kyhesha-Lee Joughlin (pictured) after she died in 2013 from an infected internal injury
Photos provided to the court show a rope tied around a bedpost that Williamson is said to have used to keep Kyhesha-Lee locked in her room
Williamson has previously testified he didn't take his daughter to a doctor despite her vomiting green for days, having obvious bruising on her face and leaving blood in her nappies.
Williamson conceded he also ignored proof his daughter was being sexually abused when she showed she was oozing blood from her genitals and told him she 'didn't want any fingers up her bum anymore'.
'I didn't think anything of it at the time,' he said.
But prosecutor Phil McCarthy suggested that never happened and Williamson made up the incident to hide his sexual abuse.
At the time of her death Kyhesha was living with Williamson and Christopher Kent, who the court heard engaged in 'unorthodox sexual conduct' together.
Williamson (left) blames Kyhesha's fatal abuse on his former housemate Christopher Kent (right), who has also pleaded guilty to manslaughter
Kyhesha-Lee's distraught mother Danielle Joughin said the little girl 'went through hell' and she 'blames herself' for her daughter's death
Kent, who previously spent 19 months in jail before pleading guilty to manslaughter and receiving a two-year suspended sentence, told the court on Wednesday he witnessed Williamson regularly abusing the girl.
'It was like two adults fighting,' Kent said.
He said Williamson, who generally slept through the day, would lock his daughter in her bedroom for hours on end and would become enraged when she then ended up throwing her faeces inside the room.
Williamson admitted using rope to keep Kyhesha locked away but claimed it was to stop her from getting out at night.
Both men blame each other for the violent and sexual assaults on the child.
Williamson wept in the dock as photos of Kyhesha were shown to detail the extensive bruising she had when she died.
In another post, the mother-of-four admitted she had 'made mistakes' in regards to the toddler and was 'not perfect'
Williamson testified he didn't take his daughter to a doctor despite her vomiting green for days
This image shows the state of Kyhesha-Lee's bedroom in the unit she lived at with Williamson in Petrie
He also denied a raft of abuse allegations, including using a large sex toy on Kyhesha, punching her in the stomach, posing naked with her and pulling on her ear until it bled.
'I had the chance to take her from him and I didn't because she loved him so much,' Ms Joughlin wrote on Facebook just months after Kyhesha-Lee's death.
In another post, the mother-of-four admitted she had 'made mistakes' in regards to the toddler and was 'not perfect'.
'Knowing the s*** that was going on in that house while my daughter was there, may as well of thrown her in a room full of paedophiles,' she wrote.
Williamson told the court on Thursday Kyhesha complained to him she was bleeding, but he didn't take her to a doctor
Ms Joughin said the little girl was cremated and chose a pink urn with a teddy bear to hold the ashes.
Williamson blames Kyhesha's fatal abuse on his former housemate Christopher Kent, who has also pleaded guilty to Kyhesha's manslaughter.
After hearing two days of evidence, Justice Roslyn Atkinson was anticipated to hand down her findings on Thursday as to what role Williamson played in Kyhesha's death and his appropriate punishment.
Williamson is here pictured here leaving court in 2015 after he was granted bail for a second time
Ms Joughin said the little girl was cremated and chose a pink urn with a teddy bear (similar to the one pictured) to hold the ashes
Matthew Lee Williamson is being sentenced in the Brisbane Supreme Court for the manslaughter of Kyhesha-Lee Joughin, who died in March 2013
But Williamson's case was adjourned until March 16 after his defence barrister Michael Copley requested a report into whether a 'psychological abnormality' contributed to his conduct towards Kyhesha.
Williamson testified he didn't take his daughter to a doctor despite her vomiting green for days, having obvious bruising on her face, and leaving blood in her nappies.
He also conceded he also ignored proof his daughter was being sexually abused when she showed she was oozing blood from her genitals and told him she 'didn't want any fingers up her bum anymore'.
'I didn't think anything of it at the time,' he said.
Outside court, Kyhesha's grandfather Doug Joughin said the delay was a 'curveball'.
'We just want closure so we can just carry on,' he said.
Pictured is the rope tied from the bedpost and connected to a door handle to keep Kyhesha-Lee's door closed
Mother Danielle Joughin (pictured, outside court) has condemned her daughter's treatment while she was in the care of her father
A judge has been accused of helping an illegal Mexican immigrant escape a courtroom where immigration officials were waiting to arrest and possibly deport him.
Diddier Pacheco Salazar, 22, appeared before Judge Monica Herranz to plead guilty in a DUI case on January 27 in Multnomah County, Oregon.
Salazar entered the courtroom with his lawyer but never came back out again.
Diddier Pacheco Salazar (left) appeared before Judge Monica Herranz (right) to plead guilty in a DUI case on January 27 in Multnomah County, Oregon
Herranz is now under internal investigation after U.S. Attorney Billy Williams accused the judge of letting Salazar leave through her private entrance after staff realized immigration and customs enforcement agents were waiting for him.
Every courtroom in the Multnomah County Circuit Court has three doors - one for the public, a private judge entrance and one for inmates to be brought in from jail.
Williams told KOIN the only explanation was that Herranz - who is on the board of the Oregon Hispanic Bar Association - or a member of her staff helped Salazar to leave through another door.
ICE agents brought the matter to Williams after the incident allowed Salazar to evade the immigration officials.
It occurred just days after Donald Trump signed an executive order to start building the wall on the U.S.-Mexico border and to crack down on the deportation of undocumented immigrants.
Salazar entered the courtroom at Multnomah County Circuit Court (above) with his lawyer but never came back out again
Herranz is now under internal investigation after U.S. Attorney Billy Williams (above) accused the judge of letting Salazar leave through her private entrance
'I felt that it was inappropriate and delegitimizes the work of ICE agents who are out there doing their jobs,' Williams told Fox 12.
'When youre talking about the judicial system - whether its federal or by state - you have an expectation that people are going to abide by the law and not take steps based on their own motivations, their own politics.'
Salazar, a Mexican-born construction worker, was charged on January 1 with a DUI and initially pleaded not guilty.
He changed his plea at his second court appearance on January 27 in exchange for a deferred sentence and participation in a diversion program.
Salazar ended up being arrested two weeks later when he returned for another court appearance. He is currently being held in Tacoma Northwest Detention Center in Washington.
ICE agents decided not to pursue a criminal investigation against Judge Herranz, but she is being investigated internally by Chief Judge Nan Waller.
Every courtroom in the Multnomah County Circuit Court (above) has three doors - one for the public, a private judge entrance and one for inmates to be brought in from jail
The self-dubbed 'King of Instagram' is receiving backlash online for his most recent post.
Dan Bilzerian, who is known for posing in photos with scantily-clad women and huge guns, posted a picture on Tuesday of himself next to a woman in a bikini who is sitting on a 100-year-old Galapagos giant tortoise at Sir Richard Branson's Necker Island.
The species of tortoise is protected and listed as 'vulnerable' by the World Wildlife Fund, and the private island is involved in wildlife conservation efforts.
Dan Bilzerian received backlash online after posting a picture on Tuesday of himself next to a woman in a bikini who is sitting on a 100-year-old Galapagos giant tortoise at Sir Richard Branson's Necker Island
He also posted other photos from the trip, including a photo of himself and the woman who sat on the turtle standing on a beach in the Caribbean
Others got more vulgar on Twitter, with one user saying: 'and the best way to show one's appreciation for the animal is to stick a s***k on it, stay classy'
One offended Instagram user said: 'Probably not cool for your friend to sit on its back'.
Others got more vulgar on Twitter, with one user saying: 'and the best way to show one's appreciation for the animal is to stick a s***k on it, stay classy'.
Jamison Ernest runs a hedge fund and owns Yellow Fever Clothing, and addressed Branson, saying: 'I'm very disappointed to see your beautiful protected creatures as zoo rides', according to Page Six.
Bilzerian has garnered attention online for posting inflammatory photos of nearly-naked women and large guns
Bilzerian. who is an American socialite and professional poker player responded to haters about the galapagos pic, saying 'Get off your soapbox, the people working there said it's fine to sit on them'
Bilzerian responded saying: 'Get off your soapbox, the people working there said it's fine to sit on them'.
However, many Instagram and Twitter users pointed out that the Galapagos National Parks specifically asks visitors not to touch or otherwise disturb the tortoises.
Branson did not respond to Page Six for comment.
Bilzerian has garnered attention online for posting inflammatory photos of nearly-naked women and large guns.
He is an American socialite and professional poker player, as well as a self-dubbed 'trust fund beneficiary'.
The Florida native also jokingly announced his bid for President of the United States in June of 2015, before dropping out and endorsing Donald Trump.
The mother of a schoolgirl who killed herself after being gang-raped and severely bullied has called on police to reopen her case.
Linda Trevan, the mother of Melbourne schoolgirl Cassidy Trevan, who committed suicide in 2015, has asked officers to question the boys she claimed raped her.
Speaking to 9 News, Ms Trevan said: 'All I want is for them to be questioned. For them to not think they got away completely scot-free, no consequences.
'I want them to feel the fear that Cass felt.'
Linda Trevan (left), the mother of schoolgirl Cassidy (right) who killed herself in 2015, has asked police to reopen the case into her daughter's alleged rapists
Cassidy was gang-raped aged 13 while at school in Melbourne as part of a lengthy campaign of bullying that saw her suffer from PTSD, separation anxiety, and insomnia
Cassidy was badly bullied by two girls at a Melbourne high school in 2013, missing out on the fourth term of Year 7 because she could no longer face school.
When she returned for two days per week, the girls seemed to be keen to make amends, asking her to be their friend and inviting her to a festival.
But instead of taking her to the music event, the girls took her to a nearby house where Cassidy was raped by two boys who took turns while the other girls sat in an adjacent room.
The boys timed each other while attacking her, Ms Trevan said at the time, while another one stood guard at the door.
Cassidy contacted police after the attack, but she could not bring herself to give officers a statement, so her alleged attackers were never questioned
The attack left Cassidy suffering nightmares, insomnia, separation anxiety, panic attacks and PTSD.
Ms Trevan said the family met with Victoria Police's Sexual Offence and Child Abuse Investigation Team more than 20 times, but Cassidy could not bring herself to give them a statement, fearing that reliving the experience would push her over the edge.
Plagued by mental health issues, Cassidy eventually took her own life in 2015.
Because no official crime report was lodged before she died, the alleged attackers were never questioned over the incident.
But Ms Trevan believes the boys, who were 14 and 15 at the time of the attack, may still confess if confronted.
She says new evidence, including a text conversation with one of the female bullies in which she acknowledges the rape, could help the case.
Ms Trevan said one of the boys also confessed the attack to a male friend of Cassidy's when confronted about it, trying to excuse his actions by saying he was drunk and stoned at the time.
Ms Trevan (left and right, with Cassidy) says she has passed new evidence to police and believes the alleged attackers may still confess if confronted
She has passed the evidence to Victoria Police. A police spokesman refused to say whether any of the suspects had been questioned.
In a statement provided to Daily Mail Australia, the spokesman said: 'Detectives work hard to build rapport and trust with victims of sexual offences and to ensure their welfare is looked after as a priority.
'Breaching a victim's trust and proceeding with some investigative leads can, in some cases, be a severe detriment to the investigation and the victim's wellbeing.
'In this case, SOCIT detectives are confident that they followed all appropriate investigative leads.'
Maverick GOP senator Rand Paul sparked chaos on Thursday when he and a group of Democrat representatives marched to a locked office in the House side of the Capitol, and demanded to see a copy of the bill to replace Obamacare.
Paul and the House Democrats took the very public stand in protest about the lack of transparency about the new bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, which they believe is being kept under lock and key.
'It's the secret office for the secret bill,' Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., proclaimed to reporters after being denied entry to the ground floor room where he said the measure was being shown to some lawmakers.
Maverick GOP senator Rand Paul sparked chaos on Thursday when he demanded to see a copy of the bill to replace Obamacare
An aide to Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., later said Paul was standing outside her office, not a hideaway for clandestine legislation.
'This should be an open and transparent process,' Kentucky Republican Paul said. 'This is being presented as if it were a national secret, as if this was a plot to invade another country, as if this were national security. That's wrong.'
Reps. Frank Pallone of New Jersey and Jan Schakowsky of Illinois also came up empty at Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy's office and then headed to Energy and Commerce Chairman Greg Walden's office where they were also turned away.
The unusual search wound through the Capitol and labyrinthine Rayburn House office building.
Republican leaders are hoping to unveil the legislation next week.
Part of the new measure is currently being shown privately to GOP lawmakers without distributing copies.
Party leaders often closely hold major bills while striking final compromises, but this was an unusually stealthy move aimed at preventing leaks of the measure, which would replace much of former President Barack Obama's health care overhaul with Republican proposals.
Paul sparked chaos on Thursday when he and a group of Democrat representatives marched to a locked office in the House side of the Capitol, and demanded to see a copy of the bill to replace Obamacare
'It's the secret office for the secret bill,' Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., proclaimed to reporters after being denied entry to the ground floor room where he said the measure was being shown to some lawmakers
House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Greg Walden, R-Ore., who is letting panel Republicans see his portion of the measure, refuted that his panel's work was anything less than transparent.
He said assertions his committee 'is doing anything other than the regular process of keeping its members up to speed on latest developments in its jurisdictions are false.'
Chairman Kevin Brady, R-Texas, whose House Ways and Means Committee is writing other provisions, noted he and Walden had briefed senators including Paul on Wednesday.
'Clearly every senator in that room knows exactly the direction we're going,' Brady told reporters.
The secrecy surrounding the House draft presented a golden publicity opportunity to Paul, who like some other conservatives says the GOP plan doesn't go far enough in dismantling Obama's law.
'This is being presented as if this were a national secret, as if this were a plot to invade another country,' Paul told camera crews and reporters his office had alerted to his quest.
In an interview this week with NBC's 'Today' show, House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., said Republican leaders were 'not hatching some bill in a backroom and plopping it on the American people's front door.'
Also launching pursuit were No. 2 House Democratic leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland and other Democrats, who rummaged through the Capitol and a nearby House office building. Parts of their expeditions were streamed on social media.
House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., has insisted that Republican leaders were 'not hatching some bill in a backroom and plopping it on the American people's front door.'
At one point, Reps. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., and Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill., were turned away from the offices of Walden and House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif. Rep. Joe Crowley, D-N.Y., claimed to have checked the men's room.
'They don't want us to see the bill,' said Pallone.
Thursday's histrionics came as Ryan and other GOP leaders try delivering on one of their and President Donald Trump's top political priorities, despite lingering disputes.
At a closed-door conference, Ryan told Republicans that leaders would draft the overhaul legislation this weekend. Lawmakers have said the goal is for the two House committees to vote next week in hopes of pushing the legislation through the House and to the Senate before an early April recess.
One conservative foe, Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., said leaders pushed lawmakers hard Thursday to back the bill. He said leaders showed clips of Trump's congressional address on Tuesday, when he embraced key principles of the GOP plan.
This was 'very unconvincing,' said Massie.
One of the most contentious remaining disputes is a new tax sought by Ryan on part of the value of expensive employer-provided medical plans. Many Republicans are reluctant to vote for a tax increase - a reliable way to invite challengers in primary elections.
Many conservatives oppose a proposed tax credit that would be even for people who owe no taxes and is based on age, not income. Brady said he's considering whether to 'target' the credit, but didn't say how.
Obama's law expanded Medicaid to more lower-income people, a move that 31 states accepted, along with billions in added federal payments to cover it. The GOP plan would provide money for those states and for the 19 states, mostly run by Republicans, that didn't expand Medicaid.
The Oscars blunder that shocked Hollywood may cost the show's producer a new job as the boss of film company Paramount Pictures.
Oscars producer Michael De Luca was rumored to replace Brad Grey as the film company's CEO but sources told Page Six that is unlikely to happen now given the negative publicity.
'De Luca produced the Oscars and was about to get the job at Paramount,' the source told the publication.
'Now because of the Oscar disaster, he is very likely not to get it.'
Oscars producer Michael De Luca was rumored to replace Brad Grey as the CEO Paramount Pictures but sources have said that is now unlikely to happen given recent negative publicity
Former Warner Bros. boss Jeff Robinov, former Paramount chief operating officer Rob Friedman and 20th Century Fox CEO Jim Gianopulos are also tipped to be in the running for the gig.
It comes after De Luca compared the Oscars debacle to the 'Hindenburg report' after PricewaterhouseCoopers accepted the blame for mishandling the envelopes.
'I literally heard, "Oh my God! He got the wrong envelope",' Michael De Luca said in an interview with The Business on KCRW on Wednesday.
'And then it was slow motion. You perceive things slowly as the adrenaline rises and the cortisol floods your system.'
De Luca said that he was sitting next to his producer Jennifer Todd at the time, and that his biggest concern was getting host Jimmy Kimmel back on the stage to fix the situation.
The Oscars envelope blunder has reportedly cost De Luca a shot at the Paramount CEO gig
Oscar producer Michael De Luca (above with his producer Jennifer Todd) revealed what the scene was like backstage after the Best Picture flub on Sunday
'It was like the Hindenburg report. I literally heard, "Oh my God! He got the wrong envelope!"' he said in a new interview (Faye Dunaway above wrongly announcing La La Land as the winner)
There was nothing to worry about however as Kimmel was already one step ahead of the producers.
'He was sitting with Matt Damon to do the scripted final bit - it was going to be a kicker with Matt - and he saw what was happening and jumped onstage,' said De Luca.
The flub happened right when one of the best Oscar telecasts in recent years was winding down, and after a long and difficult day for the production staff and crew.
'We had a set collapse actually on us during rehearsal that day on Sunday because an elevator onstage was miscued,' said De Luca.
'We had to cancel the rehearsal while we put the set back together.'
There was also a meeting after the Best Picture flub to immediately discuss what happened and figure out the series of events that caused the embarrassing incident.
'After it was over and everyone was crowding backstage, I ran into the theater to scoop up my wife and kids and brought them back to my production office,' said De Luca.
'By the time I went back to the green room, [Academy CEO Dawn Hudson]was already in mid-conversation with the players, just trying to figure out what happened. Everyone was a little shaken. Everybody looked white-faced and the blood was just drained.'
Audience members look on in shock as the mistake was announced live on air (front row l to r: Casey Affleck, Christine Boldt, Michelle Williams, Busy Philipps and Ben Affleck; second row: Matt Damon, Jimmy Kimmel and Selma Hayek; third row: Rosalind Ross, Mel Gibson, and Lucas Hedges)
PricewaterhouseCoopers accountants Martha Ruiz and Brian Cullinan have been fired from all future Oscars telecasts (above on the red carpet)
In the end, De Luca said he was 'heartbroken' about what became of the night.
'I wanted the show to be remembered for the Katherine Johnson moment, the James Foley moment with Sting, and Dev Patel's wonderful introduction of Sting,' said De Luca.
'I wanted the heartfelt moments to be what we're talking about today, and I wanted the funny moments that Jimmy brought, the really inventive or irreverent bits. I wanted that to be the topic of conversation.
'The anger came later but I've been through all the stages now. Now, I'm into acceptance and forgiveness.'
As for whether or not he might do the show again, De Luca said: "I'm on record saying I want to do next year, because it's the 90th anniversary and I'm really jonesing for it.
He then added: 'I don't know if they'll pick me again, but I would absolutely come back next year. I loved it. I've got to say in all seriousness, with the mistakes aside, it was a great experience.'
De Luca also said that he would like to have Kimmel back again with him next year.
George W. Bush heaped praise on Jimmy Kimmel for his anti-Trump opening monologue at the Oscars on Thursday night, telling the comedian enthusiastically that his performance was 'damn good'.
In a rare and lighthearted television appearance, Bush steered clear of mentioning the current president by name but was led into several subtle jabs at him by his mischievous host.
Among the slights was a compliment for Kimmel's decidedly anti-Trump debut at the Academy Awards.
'I saw your opening. I thought it was damn good!' he enthused, adding later that Kimmel was a 'funny guy'.
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George W. Bush laughed along as Jimmy Kimmel roasted President Trump on Thursday night, heaping praise on the comedian who he said was 'damn good' at the Oscars. He indulged his host by sketching a quick portrait of him during an ad break
The 70-year-old resisted Kimmel's repeated attempts to coax him in to slamming Trump by name but roared with laughter at some of his attacks
During his opening skit at the award ceremony Kimmel on Sunday landed several blows on President Trump about how he'd made the rest of the world 'hate' America and described a divided country that no one could fix.
He then mocked Trump's assessment of Meryl Streep as one of Hollywood's most 'overrated actresses', sarcastically piling on to her apparent mediocrity.
President Bush, eager to portray his sense of humor on Thursday, appeared to wholeheartedly approve of the roast.
But Bush didn't stop there in allowing Kimmel to make pointed comparisons with the current commander-in-chief.
Unlike Trump who has complained incessantly about news networks and their coverage of him, Bush said he didn't ever watch television during office.
'You're pretty busy, there's plenty to do.'
He said he always enjoyed attending the White House Correspondents Dinner - something the current president boycotted - and even used it as an opportunity to poke fun at himself.
'I love humor, the best humor is when you make fun of yourself,' President Bush said, carefully resisting Kimmel's response: 'Tell that to the president!'.
While he admitted he hadn't ever watched Alec Baldwin in his role on Saturday Night Live, President Bush embraced the show's imitations of him while he was in office.
'Damn good': President Bush said he missed the catastrophic end of the Oscars but praised Kimmel's opening which was a stinging culmination of Trump jabs
KIMMEL'S OPENING SPEECH OSCARS JABS AT TRUMP Kimmel paid tribute to Trump foe Meryl Streep who took a bow at his request as he mocked the president's criticism of her 'This broadcast is being watched live by millions of Americans, and around the world in more than 225 countries that now hate us. And I think that is an amazing thing.' 'As you know, I dont have to tell anybody, the country is divided right now. Ive been getting a lot of advice. Its time to bring people together. You have to say something. Lets just get something straight off the top. I cant do that. Theres only one Braveheart in the room, and hes not gonna unite us either. Mel [Gibson], you look great. I think the Scientology is working. I really do.' 'You know, if every person watching this show I dont want to get too serious, but there are millions and millions of people watching right now and if every one of you took a minute to reach out to one person you disagree with, someone you like, and have a positive, considerate conversation not as liberals or conservatives, as Americans if we could all do that, we can make America great again. We really could. It starts with us.' 'I want to say thank you to President Trump. I mean remember last year when it seemed like the Oscars were racist? It has been an amazing year for movies. Black people saved NASA and white people saved jazz. Thats what you call progress. 'We are here tonight to honor great actors but were also here to honor the actors who seem great, but actually really arent. And of all the great actors here in Hollywood, one in part has stood the test of time for her many uninspiring and overrated performances.' 'Meryl, stand up, if you would. Everybody please join me in giving Meryl Streep a totally undeserved round of applause, will you? ... Nice dress by the way. Is that an Ivanka?' Advertisement
Worlds apart: Bush resisted mentioning President Trump by name but allowed several subtle slights at him
'I love humor': Several times throughout the segment Bush described his host as a 'funny guy'
Good sport: Bush took part in an earlier bit where he was asked on the street to critique a child's picture they said he'd done. He later said he loved humor, especially if it was self-deprecating
At the start of the segment, the show presented children's paintings to people on the street and passed them off as the president's
He let out a roaring laugh when asked if he was jealous of President Trump's inauguration size but stopped short of mocking his claims it was the 'biggest ever'.
Instead, President Bush redirected the jest to himself.
'He's a great guy': Bush said it was a 'joyous moment' to watch his father, George H. W. Bush, perform the coin toss at this year's Super Bowl after a brief stint in hospital
'I was there. I was the guy trying to put the poncho on!' he laughed, recalling his scrambled attempt to take cover when the heavens opened during Trump's speech.
Unlike Trump, who last year slammed The Wall Street Journal, President Bush said he relied on the publication for his daily news.
The 70-year-old diplomatically resisted Kimmel's several attempts to have him chide Trump by name.
He did let out an enthusiastic laugh when asked if he was jealous of the size of the crowds at Trump's inauguration.
The former president shared several upbeat anecdotes from his time and office.
He laughed off a hunting accident which saw Vice President Dick Cheney shoot lawyer Harry Whittington in the face. 'Every time Cheney would come in, a lot of people would yell duck!'
He also revealed that prior to his marriage to former first lady Laura Bush, he once went on a date with Tricia Nixon, President Nixon's daughter.
Nixon was president at the time and Bush, then in his twenties, took her to a dinner thrown by his father.
President Bush also joked that after Dick Cheney shot lawyer Harry Whittington in the face in a hunting accident, he would yell 'duck' whenever he entered a room in the White House
It was the first time he'd ever been to the White House and he collected her in a purple Gremlin, he said.
'It was an arranged date by my dad. It was interesting. I pulled up in a purple Gremlin. I took her to a dinner.
Memory lane: Bush revealed how he took President Nixon's daughter Tricia on a date when he was in his twenties
'My dad had a dinner for Frank Bourman who was an astronaut from Houston and I took her.'
He made a brief reference to his father's health, winning applause from the studio audience when he revealed both he and his mother are 'doing great'.
George Bush Snr, 92, was admitted to hospital at the start of the year due to a respiratory issue that caused him to miss Trump's inauguration. He was released in time to flip the coin for the Super Bowl with his wife Barbara by his side.
Asked how they were, he said enthusiastically: 'Thank you for asking, they're both doing great.
'When he came out to flip the coin at the Super Bowl it was a very joyful moment. He's a great guy.'
The former president was on the show to promote his new book, Portraits of Courage: Commander in Chief's Tribute to America's Warriors.
The book is compiled of oil paintings by the former president of members of the Armed Forces.
'I was the guy trying to put on the poncho!' Bush laughed off his scramble to take cover from the rain at President Trump's inauguration
President Bush is promoting his new book, Portraits of Courage, which is compiled of 66 oil paintings of post 9/11 veterans
He shared several self-portraits, joking that he created the nudes to test his Democrat art teacher's sense of humor
President Bush has been doing the media rounds.
On Wednesday, he spoke about his fondness for former first lady Michelle Obama during an interview with People.
He said that he and Obama shared 'a genuine expression of affection' for one another during that moment when they were photographed embracing in Washington last September.
Bush said he developed a lighthearted rapport with the former first lady, who took a liking to his sense of humor.
'Anybody who likes my sense of humor, I immediately like,' Bush told People.
Bush said that he and Michelle Obama (right) shared 'a genuine expression of affection' for one another during that moment when they were photographed embracing in Washington last September
In July, Bush and Obama held hands while singing The Battle Hymn of the Republic during the memorial service for five police officers killed by a sniper in Dallas
Bush, 70, and Obama, 53, found time to strike up a friendship while seated next to one another during official events, like the recent opening of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture and Nancy Reagan's funeral.
At the museum opening, Bush and Obama were photographed in a warm embrace. The image went viral and is often considered the definitive snapshot of their relationship.
In July, Bush and Obama held hands while singing The Battle Hymn of the Republic during the memorial service for five police officers killed by a sniper in Dallas.
Bush was evidently swinging his arms and appeared to be enjoying himself, prompting some to criticize him for not acting appropriately during a solemn occasion.
'I can't remember where else I've sat next to her, but I probably have a few wise cracks and she seemed to like it okay,' says Bush.
'I needle her a little bit and around her, I'm fairly lighthearted. [The Obamas] are around serious people all the time and we just took to each other.'
The public relations blitz by Bush is aimed at promoting his latest undertaking - an exhibition of his oil paintings depicting US military veterans.
An exhibition of the portraits will open Thursday at the former president's library in Dallas.
All of the proceeds from Bush's book will go towards a veterans program run by his charity
The collection, on display at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Texas until October 1, features 66 portraits and a four-panel mural.
Bush's paintings pay tribute to the nearly 100 wounded or traumatized personnel who he has known personally since leaving the White House in 2009.
As the 43rd US president Bush had commanded the US military members, who all served in the wars he launched in Iraq and Afghanistan following the attacks on September 11, 2001.
The former commander-in-chief released on Tuesday a book titled 'Portraits in Courage: A Commander in Chief's Tribute to America's Warriors,' which includes images of the portraits and the veterans' personal stories.
Bush said he wanted to use the paintings and book to highlight the veterans' struggles with post-traumatic stress and the transition to civilian life.
He will donate proceeds from the book to The George W. Bush Presidential Center which helps post 9/11 veterans and their families adjust to civilian life.
A man has been jailed for the 1983 murder of a Sydney nurse but the judge has said it's a 'forlorn' hope he would reveal the whereabouts of the woman's body.
Mary Louise Wallace lived for 33 years - the same length of time it took for her killer Robert John Adams to be brought to justice.
But while her sisters are happy Adams is now behind bars for at least 15 years, they desperately want him to reveal the whereabouts of her body.
Robert John Adams (pictured) has been jailed for 20 years for the murder of Sydney nurse Mary Louise Wallace in 1983
Mary Wallace (pictured) was last seen getting in Adam's car after he offered her a lift home from a wine bar in Crows Nest, Sydney under the pretence he was a policeman
In jailing the 64-year-old, Justice Richard Button noted their hope that one day Adams would reveal his secret so Ms Wallace's remains could be accorded a dignified burial.
'Regrettably.... I assess that hope as a forlorn one,' he said in the NSW Supreme Court on Friday.
Outside court, Ms Wallace's sister Anne Fraser said at least Adams had been made to pay for his crime, but it didn't bring back her sister.
'We wish he would say where she is, that would be something for us, but this is as good as we can get,' she said.
Ms Wallace's sister say they hope Adams (pictured) will eventually reveal the location of her body
Adams, who was jailed in 1976 after admitting raping another woman, was found guilty by the judge last year of murdering Ms Wallace in September 1983.
He had offered her a lift home from a North Sydney wine bar, falsely telling her friends he was a police officer so they were content for her to leave with a stranger.
'Each of them was very affected by alcohol; indeed, in the case of the deceased, she had been too drunk to stand,' the judge said.
He found that Adams had parked the car and applied pressure to her windpipe with his hands in an effort to force her to have sex, which led to her being asphyxiated.
Justice Richard Button said Adams had parked the car and applied pressure to ms Wallce's windpipe with his hands in an effort to force her to have sex, which led to her being asphyxiated
While her death was unintended, his intention had involved 'an invasion of her sexual autonomy'.
'This offence against a young woman in the prime of her life, simply for the sexual gratification of the offender, cannot be assessed as anything other than extremely grave.'
He found Adams had a tendency to choke women to force them into having sex, noting the rape conviction involved a brutal sexual assault after he tried to strangle his victim.
Justice Button said: 'This offence against a young woman in the prime of her life, simply for the sexual gratification of the offender, cannot be assessed as anything other than extremely grave'. Pictured is Adams being escorted to a prison van in 2016
Adams was arrested in 2013 after advances in DNA testing allowed experts to match hairs seized from his car boot in 1983 to strands from Ms Wallace's hairbrush.
As the defence made no sentencing submissions, the judge said he knew nothing about Adams' life since 1984 - his current relationships, his family if any, his work history, or his current state of physical or mental health.
Since he had no criminal convictions for decades, he seemed to have achieved some degree of rehabilitation.
The judge set a maximum term of 20 years, according to the sentences that would have been imposed at the time he committed the murder.
A prisoner in Florida who attacked a guard and tried to strangle him with a towel was tackled to the ground by fellow inmates when they stepped in to save the officer.
Security cameras inside the Falkenburg Road Jail in Tampa captured the moment Kiondre Zachery, 22, attempted to strangle Deputy D. Hernandez in the unprovoked attack on Tuesday.
Zachery could be clearly seen wrapping the towel around the 31-year-old guard's neck in front of 72 other inmates in the packed jail pod.
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Kiondre Zachery, 22, was captured on security cameras strangling Deputy D. Hernandez with a towel at Falkenburg Road Jail in Tampa, Florida on Tuesday
Deputy Hernandez was filmed struggling with the inmate before he managed to escape from Zachery's grasp.
Zachery was in prison for burglary but has now been charged with assaulting the guard
Zachery then appeared to try and punch the guard before his fellow inmates pounced and helped tackle him to the ground.
They helped Deputy Hernandez hold him down until backup arrived.
The guard suffered a twisted ankle, bruised knee and abrasions to his neck from the attack.
He has been a guard at the prison for 10 months.
Zachery was in prison for burglary.
He has now been charged aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and moved to an isolation cell.
Zachery (center) could be seen approaching the guard (pictured right with another inmate) with the towel in his hands in front of 72 other inmates in the packed jail pod
Security cameras captured the moment Zachery wrapped the towel around the guard's neck
Hillsborough County sheriff's office said the inmates had saved the guard from being seriously injured.
'Due to the overall professionalism and respect that detention deputies display towards the inmates on a daily basis, the inmates came to the deputy's aid preventing the deputy from being seriously injured,' the sheriff's office said.
'This incident highlights the extreme danger the men and women working at the Hillsborough County Department of Detention Services face everyday.
'It also shows that because most inmates know that the deputies inside the pods are not adversaries and are treated fairly and with respect.'
A man sentenced to 60 years to life in prison in 1989 has been released after serving less than half of his sentence due to a lack of physical evidence.
David Weinberg was convicted in 1989 of the murder of Joyce Stochmal, a 19-year-old college graduate and aspiring veterinarian.
Stochmal was stabbed to death in August 1984 while walking to her job at an animal clinic in a small Connecticut town.
Joyce Stochmal, a 19-year-old college graduate and aspiring veterinarian was stabbed to death in August 1984 while walking to her job at an animal clinic in a small Connecticut town
David Weinberg was convicted in 1989 of the murder of Joyce Stochmal, but was released Thursday as his conviction was cut short on Thursday, though he was not exonerated and his murder conviction remains intact
She was abducted, beaten and stabbed 17 times before her body was disposed of in a lake in Newtown, Connecticut.
Her parents, Charles and Mary Ann Stochmal, believe that the decision is a 'grave injustice'.
They said in a courtroom statement: 'Our family still grieves. Time should heal but in our case it intensifies now with an individual found guilty and convicted to 60 years is going free after not even half of his sentence,' reported Fox News.
Weinberg was initially sentenced to 60 years to life in prison without the possibility of parole, but was cut short on Thursday, though he was not exonerated and his murder conviction remains intact.
She was abducted, beaten and stabbed 17 times before her body was disposed of in a lake in Newtown, Connecticut
His 'sentence modification' happened through the help of the Connecticut Innocence Project, which is a nonprofit taxpayer-funded organization that works to exonerate wrongly convicted individuals through DNA testing.
Darcy McGraw, director of the group, told the judge that Weinberg has always maintained that he is innocent and that there is no physical evidence linking him to the crime.
Stochmal's family, however, said that state police and prosecutors conducted an intense investigation that proved Weinberg's guilt in a court of law.
They also said that Connecticut Innocence Project did not prove his innocence.
'David Weinberg was found guilty then. He is guilty still,' the victim's sister Marianne Hefferman told Fox News outside the courthouse.
'The fact that he is about to walk out of this courthouse as a convicted murderer is something that every resident in this state should be upset about. And he used taxpayer dollars to do it'.
On August 3, 1984, Stochmal had dinner with her family before leaving her home for an overnight shift at the Silver Kills Kennel in Ansonia, Connecticut.
Authorities believe that Weinberg was driving along Route 188 when he spotted her walking alone, her purse and duffel bag in her hand, which contained a small makeup case, Calvin Klein jeans and an orange T-shirt.
It is then reported that Weinberg grabbed her and took her to an area beneath a nearby bridge, where he stabbed her repeatedly and left her for dead in Lake Zoar.
Weinberg was arrested and charged with murder in May 1985, and a jury found him guilty three years later after 10 hours of deliberations, reported Fox
Her body was found three days later by people fishing in the lake, reported Fox.
Weinberg's then-girlfriend, Debby Lester, helped convict him, as she told investigators that his behavior was strange in the days following the murder.
She told investigators that he painted the rims of his car wheels from black to white, and stopped carrying a buck knife on his belt. She also claimed that he brought her to a small campfire near the Promperaug River, where state police recovered charred items belonging to the victim, including orange fabric consistent with her T-shirt and a Calvin Klein button.
Weinberg was arrested and charged with murder in May 1985, and a jury found him guilty three years later after 10 hours of deliberations, reported Fox.
Though his attorney immediately filed an appeal, he was sentenced to 60 years to life in prison without the possibility of parole on January , 1989. After 20 years of appeals, the state appellate court affirmed the conviction on Jan 13, 2009.
The Connecticut Innocence Project took his case in 2010, and filed a new habeas corpus motion.
Last month the State's Attorney Marueen Platt (pictured) and McGaw signed off on a motion for 'sentence modification'
Last month the State's Attorney Marueen Platt and McGraw signed off on a motion for 'sentence modification'.
Modification changes his life sentence without possibility of parole to 'time served', and in a testimony before Judge Roland Fasano of the Waterbury District Superior Court, McGraw stressed the lack of physical evidence linking Weinberg to the murder.
She also said that foreign DNA found under Stochmal's fingernail did not belong to Weinberg, which she believe 'excludes' her client.
McGraw further described Weinberg's then-girlfriend as 'seriously mentally ill', reported Fox.
However, Stochmal's family believes that Weinberg killed their daughter, and maintains the integrity of the investigation and original conviction.
Heffernan and her family all wore pins saying 'Justice for Joyce' on Thursday, and she said that the release reopened a 33-year-old wound.
She believes that Weinberg, who has a criminal record including sexual assault, poses a threat to the public.
An Illinois congressman has apologized for comparing town halls to 'cleansing by orientals' in Maoist China.
Rep. Mike Bost was discussing his poor attendance at raucous town hall events, which he described as counterproductive, when he used the racial slur.
'The amount of time that I have at home is minimal, I need to make sure that it's productive,' Bost told the editorial board.
'You know the cleansing that the Orientals used to do where you'd put one person out in front and 900 people yell at them? That's not what we need. We need to have meetings with people that are productive.'
Rep. Mike Bost was discussing his poor attendance at raucous town hall events, which he described as counterproductive, when he used the racial slur
He was referring to 'struggle sessions' - a brutal practice carried out by the Chinese Communist Party under Chairman Mao Zedong.
Political rivals or enemies of the regime were punished by being brought in front of a crowd who would verbally and physically abuse the victim until he or she confessed. Once they were forced to confess, they were often killed.
Bost has since apologized for his 'poor choice of words.'
'While there was no malicious intent, I regret that my words may have distracted from an important point,' Bost said.
He also called on people not to disrupt town hall events which made it 'much harder to govern.'
'It's time for Republicans and Democrats to get back to the point where we can disagree on the issues but give everyone a chance to have their voice heard.'
Bost visited his 12th District last week, hosting a tele-town hall instead of an in-person one.
Some Republicans in Congress have participated in rowdy town halls in which crowds have expressed concerns about President Donald Trump's policies. A few, like Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, have been shouted down and booed.
He was referring to 'struggle sessions' - a brutal practice carried out by the Chinese Communist Party under Chairman Mao Zedong (Tibet's 10th Panchen Lama is seen undergoing a Cultural Revolution struggle session in Tibet's capital Lhasa, in 1964)
The representative described the town halls as 'out of control, which means you don't actually get to talk to people and listen, and we're looking for ways to do that.'
In an editorial, the Southern Illinoisan noted that the people of his district want to have their voices heard, and doing it over the phone or the internet just won't do.
It went on to say, 'It is part of his job description to, from time to time, take the heat. A leader should not be reluctant to meet with his constituents personally.'
In 2012, as a state representative, Bost screamed profanities and referenced the Bible during a tirade directed at powerful House Speaker Mike Madigan. The outburst, which created an internet stir, came as House members prepared to vote on a contentious pension bill without a chance for debate or amendment.
In response to the news, California Democratic Rep. Judy Chu, a Chinese-American, took to Twitter, saying, ''Orientals' perpetuates fear of #AAPIs as foreigners & certainly isn't a good excuse to skip town halls.'
Last year, the government moved to stop using the terms 'oriental' and 'negro' after former President Barack Obama signed the change into law.
Bost was among those who voted in favor of the bill.
A bikini model will likely deliver her first child behind bars after she was found guilty of supplying Class A drugs in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
Kirsty Dayment, 34, was revealed to be three months pregnant at her sentencing hearing on drugs charges on Friday.
Dayment earlier pleaded guilty to four charges relating to dealing cocaine and MDMA after detectives found the drugs in July 2015 in a Coogee unit she shared with her partner.
Kirsty Dayment pleaded guilty to supplying cocaine and MDMA from her Sydney beachfront apartment
Socialite and model Kirsty Dayment (right) arrives at the Downing Centre Court for her sentencing hearing on cocaine and ecstasy charges, Sydney, Friday, March 3
The Downing Centre court in Sydney heard she was a model citizen until she entered a 'violent and abusive relationship' that ended shortly before she started dating her co-accused Nicholas Riganias.
'Since [going on bail] she's gone back to a life of service and is on a path to full rehabilitation,' lawyer Ian Lloyd QC said.
It was not revealed who the father of her unborn child was as she and Riganias broke up last year and he was remanded in custody since their arrest in July 2015.
The couple were arrested when detectives allegedly found 107 grams of cocaine and a suitcase with 1.36 kilograms of MDMA in a Coogee unit in July 2015.
Kirsty Dayment, 34, was revealed to be three months pregnant at her sentencing hearing on Friday
The Downing Centre court in Sydney heard Dayment (pictured) was a model citizen until she entered a relationship with her co-accused Nicholas Riganias
Riganias reportedly started dealing drugs to pay for a $45,000 stem cell treatment for neuralgia, a chronic pain condition affecting nerves in the face.
Dayment said she became involved in the drug business because she was bankrupt from a failed fashion business.
Her defence did not contest she dealt cocaine but argued she had minimal involvement in the MDMA deal, explained as a 'one time thing' that was supposed to solve their money problems.
Kirsty Dayment arrives at the Downing Centre Court for her sentencing hearing on cocaine and ecstasy charges, Sydney, Friday, March 3
Kirsty Dayment arrives at the Downing Centre Court for her sentencing hearing on Friday, March 3
Dayment pleaded guilty to drugs charges
Lloyd said his client only asked customer Peter Biviano 'what the f**k he wants with that M' when she gave him a 1.4 gram sample of the cocaine.
Dayment's defence argued her fingerprints were only found on the MDMA bag because she showed it to the customer.
The crown agreed it was at the lower end of involvement but said texts showed she had asked Riganias about upselling MDMA to cocaine customers on multiple occasions.
Judge Sarah Huggett said a sentence of less than two years 'couldn't be justified'.
Sentencing will continue on April 7.
Ms Dayment is pictured posing dockside with some boats at Sydney's Darling Harbour
A man arrested in connection with the hunt for missing Corrie McKeague is a former special constable who works for the company at the centre of the investigation.
It is understood Haydn Stephens, 26, was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and was quizzed by officers before being released on bail.
Stephens is a traffic dispatcher for waste management firm Biffa, and one of the companys lorries was seen in the area where the RAF serviceman, 23, was last seen in Bury St Edmunds five months ago.
Haydn Stephens, pictured, 26, is understood to have been arrested by police as part of the investigation into the disappearance of Corrie McKeague
Mr McKeague went missing in September and a man, believed to be Stephens, right, has been arrested by police investigating his disappearance and bailed until April
According to The Sun, Stephens job at Biffa is to assign drivers to vehicles and collection routes.
He is understood to have returned to his home in Bury St Edmunds following his release, where he lives with his fiancee and family.
A man at the property told the Sun: Hes innocent as far as we know. We all want this out of the way as quickly as possible.
His fiancees stepfather added: Its nothing to do with me, or my wife, or my stepdaughter. He left last night and he hasnt been back since. This has been dropped on us like a bloody bombshell. Were just honest people.
It is understood Stephens has worked as a special constable for Suffolk Police and has previously received an award for his dedication.
Suffolk Police have declined to comment.
Police are believed to have searched the bin lorry seen on the night of Mr McKeague's disappearance but did not find any evidence he had been in the vehicle.
It comes as his family said they believe 'several people' may have 'covered up' the reasons as to why he is missing.
Officers are also preparing to search a rubbish tip which Mr McKeague's mother believes may contain his body.
Corrie's father, Martin McKeague, said yesterday that he believes a group of people could be hampering the investigation.
Mr McKeague's father Martin, pictured right with his son, believes several people may have 'covered up' the reasons for his son's disappearance
Police released CCTV of two people in the area at the time of Mr McKeague's disappearance
He also shared a police statement concerning a knife which was found near where Mr McKeague went missing, but which is not thought to be linked to the disappearance.
Mr McKeague quoted the police as saying: 'Police are in possession of this knife after the person it was handed to was spoken to and brought it to the police station.
'The area where the knife was found was searched during the initial stages of the inquiry and no knife was located at that time, it cannot be said when this knife was left in the area or by whom and there is no link between this and Corrie at this time.'
Mr McKeague's mother has also spoke out in regards to the arrest and said the man was not a friend or relative of her son.
Police are now preparing to sift through thousands of tons of rubbish at a dump in Milton near Cambridge.
Police have released footage of two people they wish to speak to after they were spotted in the area where Mr McKeague was last seen.
Mr McKeague and girlfriend April Oliver. His mother has said she thinks his body may be found
Detective Superintendent Katie Elliott said: 'We are continuing to make progress on the investigation and we will be starting the landfill site search as soon as the preparatory work is complete.
'We have been carrying out a lot of inquiries behind the scenes and our work continues to find the truth about what happened to Corrie.'
Mr McKeague's mother, Nicola Urquhart, 48, said: 'I've spoken to the my other sons, Makeyan and Darroch, and the rest of the family, and were just trying so hard not to read more into this than their might be.
'It might end up being nothing or might end up being huge so we don't know. There actually isn't anything that I know that the police haven't put out there.
'They obviously contacted us to let us know that they had somebody in custody and they would be interviewing them.'
Mrs Urquhart has previously said there is a 'good possibility' her son's body will be found at the landfill site.
Speaking last month, she said: 'I think there's a good possibility that that's where he could have ended up, because I try to look at things logically.
'What we know is that he's not left on foot, he's not still in there now, so he's left in a vehicle. That means he could have gone in a bin and then in the bin lorry, or in one of the other vehicles that were there.
Mrs Urquhart added: 'I don't think anyone who has put Corrie there is going to come forward - they would have done it by now.
'But if someone knows how someone is behaving, if they are behaving oddly, we're going to find Corrie if he's in that landfill, so come forward now, so whoever has put him there doesn't get away with saying he's fallen in a bin and it's an accident.
'At least give us some more closure, not just finding Corrie, but also how he got there and what happened to him.'
Detectives have so far spent more than 300,000 in their search to find Mr McKeague, including using Cadaver dogs, trained to sniff out dead bodies.
Mr McKeague was last seen walking through Bury St Edmunds after a night out in September
The investigation is one of the most expensive ever carried out by Suffolk and Norfolk Constabularies.
Mr McKeague's family have also raised more than 50,000 to draft in private investigators to help and have organised three private searches in their desperate hunt for clues.
Since Corrie's disappearance, it has also emerged that his girlfriend April Oliver, 21, is pregnant with his child.
Miss Oliver said Corrie did not know about the baby which is due in late spring or early summer.
Corrie is originally from Fife in Scotland and moved down to Suffolk to live at RAF Honington where he worked as a gunner and team medic in the air force.
Anyone with information about his disappearance is asked to call the incident room at Suffolk Police on 01473 782019.
An arrest warrant has been issued for an airline employee accused over the death of the North Korean leader's half-brother, Malaysian police said.
It comes as the only North Korean arrested over the assassination of Kim Jong-un's brother was released from police custody.
Frustrated Malaysian officers believe Ri Jong Chol was involved in the plot to kill Kim Jong-nam, but were forced to free him due to a lack of evidence.
The 47-year-old IT worker, who is employed by a cancer charity, is among eight North Koreans suspected of being part of the killing the leader of the country's half-brother.
He was poisoned with a banned nerve agent at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on February 13 and two women face execution over the death.
North Korean suspect in Kim Jong Nam murder, Ri Jong Chol, leaves a Sepang police station to be deported, in Malaysia March 3, 2017
The IT worker who is employed by a cancer charity was freed on Friday due to lack of evidence
Ri Jong Chol is the only North Korean arrested in connection with the assassination
Frustrated Malaysian officers believe Ri Jong Chol (pictured) was involved in the plot to kill Kim Jong-nam, but were forced to free him due to a lack of evidence
Indonesian Siti Aisyah (right), 25, and Doan Thi Huong (left), 28, from Vietnam, face the death penalty if found guilty
Shocking pictures show Kim Jong-nam slumped in a chair having been poisoned. He later died on his way to the hospital
Malaysia's attorney general has announced there was insufficient evidence to charge 47-year-old Ri and was deported on Friday.
As he was led out of a police station outside the capital under tight security and handed over to immigration authorities, police chief Khalid Abu Bakar said he regretted the release.
'We believe that Ri Jong Chol played a part in Kim Chol's murder but unfortunately we lack evidence to charge him,' he told AFP, using the name given in the passport carried by Kim Jong-Nam.
'We are frustrated because of a lack of evidence,' he said via text message from Saudi Arabia where he is on a religious pilgrimage.
However, he denied political or diplomatic pressure had been a factor in the release, saying it was purely an investigative issue.
A senior police official who asked not to be named said Ri had been handed over to immigration authorities in the administrative capital of Putrajaya.
'I do not know when he will be deported as they will need to sort out the travel documents,' he said.
The vehicle carrying Ri, who wore a bullet proof vest, was escorted by a six police-car convoy and motorcycle outriders. Roads were sealed off as the motorcade left the police station where he has been held.
North Korean Ri Jong-Chol (pictured) was released on Friday after Malaysian officials could not find sufficient evidence to charge in him connection to the assassination of Kim Jong-Nam
Malaysian police speak about detained North Korean Ri Jong-Chol, who was suspected of having involvement in the assassination of Kim Jong-Nam, the half brother of leader Kim Jong-un
Seven other North Koreans are wanted in connection with the killing, including a diplomat and an airline employee who are believed to be in Malaysia
A heavy armed police presence surrounded the women in court on Wednesday
Doan Thi Huong was captured walking through the airport on CCTV wearing a LOL t-shirt on the day Kim Jong-Nam was killed
Ri's release came two days after two women - one Vietnamese and one Indonesian - were charged with murdering Kim.
Seven other North Koreans are wanted in connection with the killing, including a diplomat and an airline employee who are believed to be in Malaysia.
Four are thought to have fled to Pyongyang on the day of the murder.
Ri was arrested days after Kim suffered an agonising death when he was attacked as he waited to board a flight to Macau.
CCTV footage shows two women approaching the heavyset 45-year-old and apparently smearing his face with a cloth.
Police say he suffered a seizure and died less than 20 minutes later.
Swabs of the dead man's face revealed traces of VX, a synthetic chemical so deadly that it is classed as a weapon of mass destruction.
Indonesian Siti Aisyah, 25, and Doan Thi Huong, 28, from Vietnam, face the death penalty if found guilty.
Both women say they thought they were merely taking part in a prank video.
Indonesian suspect Siti Aisyah, center, is escorted by police officers as she arrives at Sepang court in Sepang, Malaysia on Wednesday. She was charged with murder, and if found guilty, she could be hanged
Vietnamese suspect Doan Thi Huong (left) leaves court after being charged with the murder of Kim Jong-Nam. She could also be hanged if she is found guilty
Facing their fate: Siti Aisyah, left, is escorted by police officers out of Sepang court and Doan Thi Huong leaves, right
Kim Jong-nam, pictured in 2001, was assassinated at an airport in Kuala Lumpur last month
South Korea has pointed the finger of blame at North Korea, citing what they say was a standing order from leader Kim Jong-Un to kill his exiled half-brother who may have been seen as a potential rival.
North Korea, which has not acknowledged the dead man's identity, has vehemently protested the investigation, saying Malaysia is in cahoots with its enemies.
In response, Malaysia has cancelled a visa-free travel deal with North Korea - a key conduit to the outside world - and recalled its envoy to Pyongyang.
On Thursday a senior North Korean diplomat leading a delegation to Kuala Lumpur reiterated Pyongyang's assertion that Kim had died of a heart attack, dismissing the use of a toxin, and urged Malaysia to release his body.
Police chief Khalid quashed the claims.
'Our investigations supported by expert reports confirmed that Kim was murdered. North Korea can say what they like but the facts remain,' he told national news agency Bernama.
Malaysia on Friday also stepped up its criticism of the use of the banned nerve agent, condemning 'the use of such a chemical weapon by anyone, anywhere and under any circumstances'.
'Its use at a public place could have endangered the general public,' the foreign ministry said, adding that the Hague-based Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons was helping it investigate.
Huong is escorted for Sepang Magistrate Court after the hearing on Wednesday. The women maintain their innocence in the case
Indonesian Siti Aisyah, 25, and Doan Thi Huong, 28, from Vietnam, were charged with murder on Wednesday.
If found guilty, they could be hanged.
Siti, wearing a red T-shirt, was brought in first to hear the murder charge read out before being taken away. Huong, also dressed casually, then heard the charge in Vietnamese.
Calls to ban the toxic chemical used to kill Malaysia ramped up the pressure on Pyongyang on Friday, issuing a statement condemning the use of a banned toxic chemical weapon in the killing of the brother of North Korea's leader. Malaysia has not directly accused North Korea of being behind the Feb. 13 killing of Kim Jong Nam, but the statement from the Foreign Ministry comes hours after a North Korean envoy rejected a Malaysian autopsy finding that VX nerve agent killed Kim, saying the man probably died of a heart attack because he suffered from heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. The statement from Malaysia's Foreign Ministry said it was 'greatly concerned' with the use of the toxic chemical and condemned the use of such a chemical weapon under any circumstances. "Its use at a public place could have endangered the general public," said. Advertisement
Huong's lawyer S. Selvam said she told the court in Vietnamese: 'I am not guilty.'
Neither woman was asked to enter a plea and their trial is not expected to begin for several months.
They appeared to be wearing bulletproof vests as they were escorted from the building, with Huong looking tired as she was lead away.
South Korea has consistently pointed the finger of blame at North Korea, citing what they say was a standing order from Kim Jong-Un to kill his exiled half-brother.
Pyongyang - which has never acknowledged Kim's identity - has denied the charge and disputes the autopsy, claiming Malaysia is in cahoots with its enemies.
The two countries, which had enjoyed relatively warm relations, have been at diplomatic daggers drawn since the killing.
On Thursday Kuala Lumpur, which had earlier recalled its ambassador, said it was cancelling its visa-free travel deal with Pyongyang.
The government was implementing the change on the grounds of national security, Malaysian news agency Bernama quoted deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi as saying.
The cancellation will take effect on March 6, after which North Koreans entering Malaysia will be required to obtain a visa, the report added.
'We are not looking for enemies but if they use Malaysia as a platform to carry out their agenda, they should not accuse Malaysia and tarnish our image on the international diplomatic front.' Ahmad Zahid told a public event.
'We will act firmly to guarantee the safety of the people. Do not think you can use Malaysia to do what you want to do.
'Do not use Malaysia to carry out your illegal activities,' he added.
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Army bomb disposal teams have been working through the night to prepare for the removal of a Second World War device discovered on a building site.
A school, nursery and homes were evacuated yesterday after the device was found in Brondesbury Park, north west London.
Many local residents were forced to take shelter in a church overnight and told of 'scary' scenes as police knocked on their doors and told them to leave their homes on The Avenue, which has an average house value of 850,000.
The bomb, weighing 500lb, was discovered buried deep at the site in Brent, where construction workers were preparing to build an apartment block, according to reports.
Army bomb disposal teams have been working through the night to prepare for the removal of a Second World War device discovered on a building site in north west London yesterday, pictured
Experts from the Royal Engineers and Logistics Corps were constructing a blast protection layer around the device
A school, nursery and homes were evacuated yesterday after the device, pictured, was found in Brondesbury Park
Work on removing the explosive, pictured, is expected to continue throughout the day and local residents were forced to take shelter in a nearby church overnight
In the early hours of Friday morning, experts from the Royal Engineers and Logistics Corps were constructing a blast protection layer around the device.
The structure had to be put in place before they could begin work to make the device safe to move.
The Army said: 'The Army's Royal Engineer bomb disposal experts continue to work through the night with the emergency services and partner agencies in Brent where an unexploded German WW2 bomb was discovered yesterday.
'The soldiers are constructing a blast protection layer around the device before they can begin work on rendering it safe.'
According to Brent Council, work on the site is expected to continue until at least Friday afternoon.
Police set up a large exclusion zone after the bomb was found on Thursday morning, with schools, businesses and homes evacuated and roads closed.
British Red Cross volunteers were drafted in to support affected locals and more than 50 people had to stay at a rest centre set up in a church in nearby Kensal Green.
Scotland Yard said it was called to The Avenue, near Brondesbury Park, at around 11.30am.
Superintendent Nigel Quantrell said: 'I would like to thank the community for their continued support as we and our partners deal with this incident.
'I can assure you that we are working very hard to resolve the situation. The public's understanding and co-operation is deeply appreciated.'
The device is believed to be a German bomb that would have dropped in the area during the Second World War
Workers were at the site, pictured, preparing to build an apartment block before the discovery of the bomb
Residents spoke of their fear after police were 'banging on their doors' and a helicopter was 'flying above the road' after the discovery
The emergency services have thanked locals for their patience and support while the bomb disposal work takes place, pictured
Roxanne Landripet, 24, told the Evening Standard: 'There were police banging on people's doors and then I started to hear a helicopter flying around above the road.'
'A police officer knocked on my door and told me we had to leave because an unexploded World War Two bomb had been found.
'There were fire engines, ambulances and police cars everywhere. People were a bit panicky.'
Another resident tweeted: 'There's an unexploded World War Two bomb on a construction site near my house! Scary!'
And a third said: 'Police have just knocked and told us we must evacuate they have found an unexploded WW2 bomb opposite the building.'
A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: 'The brigade is currently assisting police at the scene of a suspected World War Two bomb on a building site on The Avenue.
Discovery: Two fire engines and 14 firefighters were sent to the site following the discovery of the bomb yesterday
Close up: The suspected unexploded Second World War bomb was found on a building site
'Police have put cordons in place and there are road closures in the area. Some local buildings have been evacuated as a precaution.
'The brigade was called at 11.50am. Two fire engines and 14 firefighters and officers from West Hampstead fire station are at the scene.'
Property developer Regal Homes is building 74 one, two and three bedroom homes on the site, and said excavations had unearthed 'an object of concern'.
It added: 'We would like to thank the local authorities, police, army and emergency services for their extraordinary professionalism and bravery in the face of adversity.
'We would also like to extend our gratitude to our internal team who have worked throughout the night alongside all the aforementioned services to achieve a safe outcome and minimalize inconvenience to residents.
'We thank the public for their patience and understanding over the last 24 hours.'
Local residents told of 'scary' scenes as police knocked on their doors and told them to leave their homes on The Avenue, which has an average house value of 850,000
And Brent Council tweeted: 'A suspected unexploded WW2 bomb found near the junction of Willesden Lane. Army are on their way, residents advised to avoid area.'
Unexploded bombs are still being found in the present day across London following the Blitz, which was the most intense bombing campaign Britain has ever seen.
Between September 7, 1940 and May 21, 1941 there were major raids with more than 30,000 tonnes of high explosives dropped on 16 British cities.
London was attacked 71 times and bombed by the Luftwaffe for 57 consecutive nights. More than one million London houses were destroyed or damaged.
More than 40,000 civilians were killed, almost half of them in London. Birmingham, Liverpool and Plymouth were also hit eight times, and Bristol six.
A 'cult leader' facing allegations of grooming and sexual exploitation has met the Queen at a reception in Buckingham Palace.
Bollywood choreographer Shiamak Davar, 55, met the monarch at an event to promote ties between Britain and India.
He faces two civil court hearings to defend himself against allegations of 'sexual, financial and spiritual control' and 'grooming to manipulate into sexual submission'.
Bollywood choreographer Shiamak Davar, 55, met the monarch at an event to promote friendship between Britain and India on February 28
These allegations, which Davar calls 'completely false', were made by two former members of his dance ensemble.
After his visit to Buckingham Palace, Davar tweeted a photo of him with the monarch.
He said: 'Making memories is what life is made of. Meeting Her Majesty is a memory that I'll fondly remember always.' Davar says he is the 'custodian' of VRRP Spiritual Group.
VRRP follows the teachings of Khorsheed Bhavnagari, who wrote The Laws of the Spirit World, in which she claimed her two dead sons communicated with her.
Critics allege Davar became the spiritual leader of the 'sect' - as it is described in court papers - after Bhavnagari's death in 2007.
Percy Shroff, 42, and Jimmy Mistry, 35, separately claim they endured years of unwanted sexual touching at the hands of Davar. They want damages for psychological injuries.
And they allege he abused his authority as their spiritual leader to control all aspects of their lives.
In his claim form, Mistry accused Davar of 'sexual grooming', 'sexual advances' and 'sexual, financial and spiritual control'.
Separately, Shroff claimed Davar was guilty of 'sexual grooming', 'sexual harassment', 'spiritual control' and making 'sexual demands'. Both men have claimed VRRP was a 'cult'.
The court hearings are set to be heard at the Supreme Court of British Columbia next month.
Davar's lawyer told Ben Rossington of The Mirror in a statement: 'At no time did he misuse or abuse his position in the dance company and/or perceived position in the spiritual group.'
He faces two court hearings to defend himself against allegations of 'sexual, financial and spiritual control' and 'grooming to manipulate into sexual submission'
These allegations, which Davar calls 'completely false', were made by two former members of his dance ensemble. Seen at a press conference in Mumbai on December 1,(left) and at a wedding reception on February 13(right)
Critics allege Davar became the spiritual leader of the 'sect' - as it is described in court papers - after Bhavnagari's death in 2007. Pictured: Davar performing at a Hope For Haiti concert in March 21, 2010 in Mumbai
The Shiamak Davar dance company of 30 dancers performing a medley of Hindi films during the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's visit to India.
The British Council, which hosted the UK/India 2017 Year of Culture event, said Davar was not on its list of invitees.
MailOnline has contacted Davar's representatives for comment.
A Moroccan immigrant sparked panic on a packed Spanish high-speed train after threatening to detonate a bomb he claimed to be carrying.
Armed police arrested him at gunpoint at a railway station in the Catalan city of Girona after evacuating the area before the AVE train pulled in.
Police chief Xavier Domenech said the alarm was sounded by passengers on board the train from Barcelona to Girona who phoned 999 to say an Arab-looking man was shouting in French and Arabic he was carrying a bomb.
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Moroccan migrant being led away by officers having been arrested in Catalan city of Girona
The man appeared calm as he waited by the doors with what he said was a bomb in his hands
Dramatic video footage taken by a traveller showed the poncho-wearing mop-haired 30-year-old pinned to the ground and handcuffed as he stepped off the train when it reached Girona
Dramatic video footage taken by a traveller showed the poncho-wearing mop-haired 30-year-old pinned to the ground and handcuffed as he stepped off the train when it reached Girona.
He appeared to be calm and was waiting by the doors when it pulled in as other passengers stood around him - and seemed to offer no resistance as he was surrounded by police.
One officer could be overheard asking a passenger on the platform as the arrest was made: 'Did he have a bag or not?'
The drama occurred around 6.20pm local time on Thursday on a high-speed AVE train which had left Barcelona's Sants station 40 minutes earlier.
Police confirmed afterwards the suspect, who spoke in a foreign accent and told police he was Moroccan although he wasn't carrying any ID, was not armed or carrying a bomb.
The station was put on lock down temporarily before as the man, pictured, was taken away
A number of officers surrounded the suspect and pinned him to the ground in the station
The carriage he was travelling in was also given the all-clear to continue in service after an inspection with sniffer dogs.
The mystery man at the centre of the scare, who reportedly gave police a name which has not appeared on any of their databases, remained in custody today/yesterday (FRI) after being held on a public order offence.
He was expected to undergo a psychiatric evaluation before a decision on his future. His identity had yet to be confirmed early this morning/yesterday morning (FRI).
Police officers talking at Girona train station
The regional Mossos d'Esquadra police force confirmed the scare in a Tweet saying: 'False alarm over a supposed bomb on a train between Barcelona and Girona.
'A man who threatened to detonate it has been arrested in Girona.'
Last month it emerged Islamic State fanatics had issued a 'direct threat' to popular Spanish tourist resorts where millions of Britons will holiday this summer.
Government documents have pointed to the terror group publishing in Spanish in an attempt to increase its influence on radicals living in Spain.
The number of British tourists visiting Spain soared from a low of 12.5 million in 2010 to a record high of 17.8 million in 2016.
Many tourists have chosen Spain this year as a safer option to places like Turkey, Egypt and Tunisia.
There is no suggestion at this stage the man arrested over yesterday's/Thursday's false alarm had any links to Islamic terror groups.
An investigation has been launched into how a 10-year-old boy with a disability was left locked inside a bus for six hours near Wollongong.
The 10-year-old boy was left inside the bus for six hours at a depot before he was discovered by the driver.
NSW Police told Daily Mail Australia the child boarded the bus about 8am on Thursday morning from his home in Jamberoo.
A 10-year-old boy with a disability was left locked inside a bus for six hours near Wollongong on Thursday, before the driver discovered him at the depot. He was meant to be dropped at the Petersborough School in Warilla (pictured) with other students that morning
The bus arrived at the Petersborough School in Warilla about 8.45am where a number of students got off.
The boy apparently failed to leave the vehicle, which the driver returned to a depot and locked.
He was only discovered when the driver returned to the bus at 2.45pm, police said.
The school was notified and called paramedics, who assessed the child and deemed him unharmed.
The school was notified and called paramedics, who assessed the child and deemed him unharmed. The driver has since been suspended pending an inquiry (stock image)
'The child was in the care of staff at Peterborough School and was returned home to his family after the ambulance assessment,' a NSW Education Department spokesman said in a statement.
The Assisted School Travel Program and Employee Performance and Conduct Unit are investigating the NSW incident.
The driver has been suspended pending an inquiry.
This is the incredible moment a mayor interrupts a civic ceremony to dive off a pier and save a scuba diver who had fainted in the water.
Ismail Yildirim, mayor of the town of Karamursel in north-western Turkey's Koceli Province, was attending a ceremony to mark the anniversary of a ferry disaster.
Two divers were in the sea to place a wreath on the water in tribute to the 272 people who lost their lives in the Uskudar Disaster of 1958.
This is the incredible moment a mayor interrupts a civic ceremony to dive off a pier and save a scuba diver who had fainted in the water
Onlookers could hardly believe their eyes when Mayor Yildirim suddenly pulled off his shoes, tie and jacket and jumped into the water with an enormous splash.
He had spotted that one of the scuba divers, a woman called Senay Ertorun, had fainted in the water and was in difficulties.
The mayor, who is himself a qualified diver, swam over to the woman and pulled her to the shore.
Ismail Yildirim, mayor of the town of Karamursel in north-western Turkey's Koceli Province, was attending a ceremony to mark the anniversary of a ferry disaster
Two divers were in the sea to place a wreath on the water in tribute to the 272 people who lost their lives in the Uskudar Disaster of 1958
Onlookers pulled her, and her rescuer, on to dry land before handing the mayor a blanket so that he did not get too cold.
The mayor's quick-thinking and selfless actions in jumping into the cold water earned him a round of applause from the watching crowd.
Ms Ertorun was treated at the scene and has made a good recovery.
Onlookers could hardly believe their eyes when Mayor Yildirim suddenly pulled off his shoes, tie and jacket and jumped into the water with an enormous splash
The incident was captured on camera by eyewitnesses with smartphones and the footage is already proving popular on social media and video-sharing websites.
The Uskudar Disaster involved the sinking of a small passenger ferry, the German-built SS Uskudar, in the Gulf of Izmit in March 1958, with the loss of 272 lives.
Karamursel is historically known as the Town of The Wrestlers, and is also renowned for its fish restaurants and for its handmade silk carpets including the famous Hereke rugs.
Cashed up home owners who had a change of heart after purchasing a multimillion dollar property have lost a $100,000 deposit.
The Gold Coast locals bought a beachfront home last month for $6.5million on Mermaid Beach's Hedges Avenue - before changing their minds this week.
Instead, the buyers opted for a $6.3million vacant block on the same street, losing the sizeable deposit in the process, according to realestate.com.au.
The Gold Coast locals bought a beachfront home (pictured) last month for $6.5million on Mermaid Beach's Hedges Avenue - before changing their minds this week
The cashed up home owners are believed to have lost a $100,000 deposit after the change of heart
Hedges Avenue in Mermaid Beach on the Gold Coast sits in one of the city's most sought after areas
Kollosche Prestige Agents principal Michael Kollosche told the publication the buyers forfeited a 'reasonable deposit'.
'The buyers have elected to buy something else where they didn't have to remove the house and it was $200,000 cheaper,' he said.
'The market down there (Hedges Ave) is so tightly held, there are only four homes for sale and two beachfront villas at the moment.'
Kollosche Prestige Agents principal Michael Kollosche said the buyers forfeited a 'reasonable deposit'
The agent said: 'The buyers have elected to buy something else where they didn't have to remove the house and it was $200,000 cheaper'
He said the property the buyers originally purchased would soon be snapped up by another buyer.
'We already have three other people looking at it so it will go pretty quickly,' he said.
An industry expert told the website the vendor may be entitled to further compensation in addition to the forfeited deposit.
The property the buyers originally purchased is expected to be quickly snapped up by another buyer
Theresa May has condemned the SNP's 'obsession' with breaking up the Union and accused Nicola Sturgeon of neglecting public services.
The Prime Minister vowed to protect the Union from 'tunnel vision nationalism' as she delivered Brexit, slamming the SNP for treating politics as a 'game'.
Mrs May lavished praise on Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson in a major speech to party conference in Glasgow as she said the party would stop the nationalists from 'getting away' with failure.
Despite opposing calls for a second independence referendum, Mrs May's speech will provoke claims she has launched a new campaign in defence of the Union.
The Prime Minister said strengthening the United Kingdom was a 'personal priority' for her and told the Tory faithful she was 'confident' and 'optimistic' for the future.
SNP Westminster leader Angus Robertson claimed the speech was 'ironic, hypocritical and surreal'.
Theresa May has condemned the SNP's 'obsession' with breaking up the Union and accused Nicola Sturgeon of neglecting public services at the Scottish Conservative conference in Glasgow, pictured
The Prime Minister vowed to protect the Union from the nationalists as she delivered Brexit in her keynote speech, pictured
The Prime Minister said strengthening the United Kingdom was a 'personal priority' for her and told the Tory faithful she was 'confident' and 'optimistic' for the future
Mrs May rejected SNP claims that Brexit would mean more power being centralised in Westminster.
She said: 'As I have made clear repeatedly, no decisions currently taken by the Scottish Parliament will be removed from them.
'While the SNP propose that decision-making should remain in Brussels, we will use the opportunity of Brexit to ensure that more decisions are devolved back into the hands of the Scottish people.'
First Minister and SNP leader Ms Sturgeon has threatened to call a new poll on breaking up the Union over the Brexit vote if Scotland is now allowed to stay inside the EU single market.
But Mrs May today rejected the case, insisting she would get the 'best possible access' for the whole of the UK.
Mrs May insisted the SNP had been allowed to 'get away' with the independence obsession for 'too long'
She said: 'What the SNP don't point out is that the UK domestic market is worth four times more to Scottish firms.
'In fact, the EU comes third after the rest of the UK, and the rest of the world as a market for Scottish goods.
'And yet the SNP propose Scottish independence, which would wrench Scotland out of its biggest market.
'They think independence is the answer to every question in every circumstance, regardless of fact and reality.'
The Prime Minister added: 'We are all diminished when any part of the UK is held back, and we all share in the success when we prosper.'
Ahead of local elections in the spring, Mrs May urged Scots to back Ms Davidson.
In a stinging attack on the SNP, she said: 'People in Scotland deserve a First Minister who is focused on their priorities raising standards in education, taking care of the health service, reforming criminal justice, helping the economy prosper, improving people's lives.
'Instead, they have an SNP Government obsessed with its own priority of independence, using the mechanisms of devolved government to further its political aims and all the while neglecting and mismanaging public services in Scotland.
'The SNP have been allowed to get away with it for too long.'
Mrs May today rejected the SNP demand for Scottish membership of the Single Market, insisting she would get the 'best possible access' for the whole of the UK.
Mrs May also paid tribute to her Scottish secretary and the only Scottish Tory MP David Mundell, pictured right at today's conference
Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson, pictured at today's conference, has claimed the SNP case for independence is 'weaker' than it was in 2014
Despite opposing a new referendum, Mrs May insisted: 'We should never be shy of making that positive case for the Union, because logic and facts are on our side.'
She added: 'These practical examples of the benefits of the United Kingdom reflect a deeper truth.
'The pooling and sharing of risks and resources on the basis of need across our United Kingdom is the essence of our unity as a people.
'All of the practical benefits which flow from our Union, and which are hallmarks of it, depend on that deep and essential community of interest which we all share.
'It has been shaped by geography and refined by history. And it has shown itself to be adaptable. Devolution is an example of that.'
Despite opposing a new referendum, Mrs May insisted: 'We should never be shy of making that positive case for the Union, because logic and facts are on our side.'
Mrs May said the Union transcended 'politics and institutions', telling the Tory faithful: 'The United Kingdom we cherish is not a thing of the past, but a Union vital to our prosperity and security, today and in the future.
'The Union I am determined to strengthen and sustain is one that works for working people across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
'A UK which everyone can feel secure in. A Union in which our national and local identities are recognised and respected, but where our common bonds are strengthened.'
Mr Robertson said: 'This was an ironic, hypocritical and surreal speech from Theresa May, who before the EU referendum supported a campaign warning that leaving Europe would be a disaster, but is now determined to pull us over the cliff edge of an economically catastrophic hard Brexit.
'Theresa May is guilty of mind-boggling hypocrisy it is her government's constitutional obsession with a hard Brexit which is directly threatening Scottish jobs and livelihoods.
'In those circumstances, we have a duty to stand up for Scotland, and to have a plan in place to protect our vital national interests.
'And the Scottish Government has a cast-iron democratic mandate for an independence referendum if that is the chosen route to protect those interests. It was a specific manifesto commitment on which the SNP was re-elected just 10 months ago.
'Polling shows a majority in favour of a Brexit-related independence referendum, with fewer than a quarter of people opposed to any referendum.'
The Tory faithful inside Glasgow's SECC rewarded Mrs May with a standing ovation for her defence of the Union at the spring conference
But outside the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, protesters gathered to slam Tory policies on welfare
The Conservatives are urging voters in the Scottish local elections to back them to send a signal to the SNP not to hold a new referendum.
Ms Davidson told the Daily Telegraph if the SNP pressed ahead anyway, there was 'every chance' the Union would win out.
Polls suggest Scotland hangs on a knife edge. Most surveys show No ahead but few place firm support above 50 per cent.
The No vote secured 55 per cent at the 2014 referendum.
In an article for the Scottish Daily Mail last night, the Prime Minister gave her strongest indication yet that she will rebuff Miss Sturgeon if, as expected, she demands the power to hold a new referendum on independence.
She wrote: 'The SNP will always try to denigrate our United Kingdom to further their obsession with independence. But I am equally determined to ensure the truth about our United Kingdom is heard loudly and clearly.
'As Britain leaves the EU and we forge a new role for ourselves in the world, the strength and stability of our own Union will become even more important.
Prime Minister Theresa May will today warn the Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon that the UK needs to come 'closer together' following Brexit rather than further apart
'We must take this opportunity to bring our United Kingdom closer together.' Mrs May accused the SNP leader of using her position 'to agitate for independence' rather than 'improve the lives of people in Scotland' and said her record of 'neglect and mismanagement' was a 'scandal'.
'Politics is not a game and should never be treated as such. It is a serious business, centred on improving people's lives,' she wrote.
'Scottish schools, which once led the world in setting the highest standards of attainment, are now outperformed in every category by schools in England, Northern Ireland, Estonia and Poland.
Mrs May will say maintaining the Union is a 'personal priority' as she accuses the First Minister of 'tunnel vision' in which she sees 'independence as the solution to every problem'
'Education has been fully devolved since 1999 and under the SNP's stewardship for ten years. But standards have fallen, the attainment gap remains and Scottish young people are losing out.'
In her speech today, Mrs May will add: 'People in Scotland deserve a First Minister who is focused on their priorities raising standards in education, taking care of the health service, reforming criminal justice, helping the economy prosper, improving people's lives.
'My first visit as Prime Minister was to Scotland. I wanted to make clear that strengthening and sustaining the bonds that unite us is a personal priority for me.'
A naked man 'forced himself into his neighbor's apartment in Houston, Texas, and raped her in front of her two young children'.
Bryce Scott, 42, entered the woman's home at 4am and forced her to undress in front of her six-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter and sexually assaulted her.
The father-of-two is said to have fled the block naked after the woman managed to sneak her phone to her daughter to call the police in the early hours of Thursday morning.
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Bryce Scott (pictured), 42, allegedly forced a woman to undress in front of her six-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter and sexually assaulted her after breaking into her Houston apartment
The father-of-two is said to have fled the block naked after the woman managed to sneak her phone to her daughter to call the police in the early hours of Thursday morning. The scene is pictured above
'He forced the victim to undress in front of her children, and then he raped her,' Sergeant Reginald Porter of the Houston Police Department told abc7's Eyewitness News.
'She was able to hand her phone off to one of the kids and told them in Arabic to call the police.'
Scott ran out of the back door of the complex naked and hid under a nearby truck. His feet are seen above as he was detained naked
Scott lived in the unit above the woman with his two children and his mother in the Memorial area.
The woman he allegedly attacked is an immigrant who had recently moved into the complex, police said.
Neighbors claimed the woman and Scott already knew each other and their children played in the complex's communal courtyard together.
The father-of-two is said to have fled the block (pictured) naked after the woman managed to sneak her phone to her daughter to call the police in the early hours of Thursday morning
Scott ran out of the back door of the complex and reportedly fled 40 yards to hide under a nearby truck.
He was found by police hours later - still naked - near Spring Forest Middle School and arrested on suspicion of aggravated sexual assault. He is now in custody.
'He heard the commotion at the door and ran out the back door without any clothes on,' Sgt Porter said.
Police said Scott was easily identified as he had left his clothing and ID in the mother's apartment when he ran out naked.
Neighbors described Scott as 'nice' and said they often saw him outside with his children.
Andria Perez, a single mother of two boys, expressed her shock while talking to Eyewitness News.
'They always always tell us "know your neighbors" but do you really know your neighbors,' she said. 'If you don't talk to them on a regular basis, you don't really know them.'
'He was naked when they caught him, and it's crazy because I have daughters,' another neighbor Brandon Hatcher added.
Terrified servicemen and woman on the aircraft flown by Flight Lieutenant Andrew Townshend, 49,(seen outside Bulford military court today) were 'pinned to the ceiling and thought they were going to die'
An RAF pilot who cost the Ministry of Defence millions of pounds when he caused a plane with 187 military personnel onboard to nosedive 4,400ft in seconds after his camera jammed with controls was today dismissed from the service.
Terrified servicemen and woman on the aircraft flown by Flight Lieutenant Andrew Townshend, 49, were 'pinned to the ceiling and thought they were going to die'.
The Voyager aircraft travelling from the UK to Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, was cruising at 33,000ft when it suddenly plummeted 4,400ft towards the Black Sea for 29 seconds.
As he was dismissed from the RAF, a court martial heard details of how the terrifying incident in February 2014 meant the Ministry of Defence was unable to use any of their Voyager aircraft for 13 days, because they were all grounded.
Bulford Military Court, Wilts, heard Flt Lt Townshend was 'bored' and 'practicing taking long-exposure photography when his co-pilot left the cockpit to get a cup of tea'.
Crew and passengers thought they were going to die when the Voyager aircraft plummeted 4,400ft in a matter of seconds - after the camera jammed the controls (pictured)
Flt Lt Nathan Jones (pictured) was able to wrestle back control of the nose-diving plane after crawling back to the cockpit on the aircraft's roof with a fractured back
His Nikon DSLR D3200 was positioned in between his seat's arm rest and the plane's side stick which controls movement - and when he moved his seat forward the stick was suddenly pushed forward, causing the dive.
For 29 seconds terrified crew members feared for their lives until the pilot with nearly 30 years experience and co-pilot Flt Lt Nathan Jones wrestled with controls to retrieve control of it.
Giving evidence, Flt Lt Townshend said when he was told his camera caused the dive it was 'the worst day of his life'.
Flight Lieutenant Andrew Townshend pictured outside of Bulford Military Court
He added: 'I remember seeing an awful lot of ground in front of me which you don't see in planes and remember thinking 's**t, this is so bad'.
'I thought 'this is game over, I'm going to die in this seat'.
Townshend said he had a passion for star-gazing and had treated himself to the camera when his marriage had ended.
After the incident Flt Lt Townshend, who earnt 56,000 a year in the RAF, 'deliberately deleted' photos before he appeared at a service enquiry as he thought it looked 'unprofessional'.
Today at Bulford Military Court, Flt Lt Townshend, who admitted negligently performing a duty, held his head in his hands as he was told he was dismissed from the RAF.
Flt Lt Townshend's camera jammed between his chair's armrest and the side-stick control unit, which works like a joystick. After Flt Lt Jones levelled the plane, they diverted to Incirlik Air Base, Turkey
The court heard the father-of-two's blunder cost the RAF 'millions' and the Voyager fleet was out of action for 13 days.
Prosecutor Nigel Lickley QC said it set the RAF back 827,000 in charter costs, 690,000 in revenue and 207,000 in repairs.
Judge Advocate Alan Large added the Ministry of Defence was subject to a 14 million contract with a company called Air Tanker, but could not use the planes during this period.
Also imposing a four month sentence suspended for 12 months, he said Flt Lt Townshend had taken his 'eye off the ball'.
Judge Advocate Large said: 'The responsibility of remaining alert and making sure nothing happens to affect the passengers was yours.
'When (co-pilot) Flight Lieutenant Nathan Jones was out of the cockpit you should have been more vigilant.
Service personnel on board the jet (pictured) were immediately flung out of their seats and 'pinned to the ceiling' and feared for their lives during the descent
The RAF board was shown this photo, taken by the pilot before his plane went into a nosedive. It shows the cockpit of the Voyager aircraft on February 9, 2014
'It's clear when you were alone in the cockpit nothing was happening and you failed to stay vigilant. You allowed a dangerous situation to happen when you moved your seat forward.
'This was not a momentary lapse in concentration, your eye was well off the ball.'
Flt Lt Townshend was accused of lying about knowing his camera was there when filing a tech-log and in front of a service enquiry, but was cleared of two counts of perjury and making a false record after a four-week trial.
While flying, he took photos of the views, controls inside the cockpit and in the four minutes before the sudden dive he took 28 photos.
During the nosedive, Flt Lt Townshend said 'f*****king hell, s***, Jesus Christ' and afterwards announced to passengers he 'was not sure' what caused it.
RAF PILOT WHO COMPETED IN PRINCE HARRY'S INVICTUS GAMES HEROICALLY SAVED PLANE Flt Lt Jones, 34, pictured with Prince Harry at the 2016 Invictus Games Flight Lieutenant Nathan Jones, 34, left the cockpit of the Voyager aircraft to make a cup of tea when the plane was sent into a 4,400 feet nosedive in 29 seconds. He was left with a fractured back, a prolapsed disc and nerve damage after the 2014 incident. The co-pilot was pinned to the ceiling by the sudden dive and had to be extremely careful as he pulled back the controls for fear of 'snapping the wings off', the court martial in Bulford, Wiltshire, heard. He will captain Great Britain at this year's Invictus Games in Canada - an event created by Prince Harry which sees injured servicemen and women from 17 allied nations compete against each other in a range of adaptive sports. In the 2016 games, he won a bronze medal in the 50m backstroke race. Amazingly, he recovered the aircraft from the dive by pulling back on the side stick - but did it gently as he was 'aware that if I pulled back hard it would most likely snap the wings off'. He is still getting treatment today after undergoing surgery and other lengthy procedures, and has been medically downgraded since the incident. Advertisement
The flight then had to land at an airbase in Turkey so passengers could receive treatment.
Mr Lickley said today: 'He was the captain of the aircraft and therefore had an overall responsibility of all 187 passengers and crew.
'He had been using the camera throughout the flight and significantly when he was alone in the cockpit as the co-pilot had left he was using his camera to take 28 images in the four minutes leading up to it.
'According to a captain who the court has heard evidence from, when a captain is alone in the cockpit they should be focusing on the flight and controls solely.
'Passengers and crew felt weightlessness and feared for their lives. The welfare of the crew and passengers was put at risk by Flt Lt Townshend.'
The partner of a man killed by a dangerous driver had an emotional meeting her boyfriend's killer days before he was jailed.
Meg Williamson heard 24-year-old Lewis Stratford acknowledge the lives he had 'ruined' after causing the death of her partner Gavin Roberts, 28, by driving dangerously.
In the 50-minute meeting, filmed by the BBC, Stratford was the first to speak to a nervous Ms Williamson.
He said: 'I know I've caused a lot of pain for a lot of people with something that could have waited till the next day.
'I know what I've done. I know the lives I've ruined, I've ruined a lot of people's lives, happiness. I deserve everything I get from whatever comes now.
'I am sorry but I can't keep saying sorry because I know people don't want to hear - sorry's not going to make things better. Ever.'
He went on to ask if she was angry with him for taking away the life of her Australian partner.
Shaking her head and crying, she replied: 'A little bit but then so many people do it, so many people.
'But it was a stupid mistake. I don't want to hate you forever. I'm not that type of person.
Lewis Stratford was arguing with his girlfriend on his mobile phone when he crashed into and killed Gavin Roberts. This was the scene after the horrific head-on crash on the A34 in Berkshire last June
'And eventually I'll probably be able to forgive you. But I just needed some questions answering first.'
At his sentencing hearing at Reading Crown Court, the court heard Stratford was in a highly emotional state.
He phoned his then girlfriend multiple times in the run-up to the crash, accusing her of cheating on him, the court heard.
Speaking to the BBC about why he was using his mobile, he said: 'I was scared of losing her.
'They were emotional calls, they were shouty calls, high-emotion calls, raging calls that shouldn't have been made that night.
Victim Gavin Roberts' girlfriend Meg Williamson (left), who has since met up with the driver who killed him, said the rail worker (right) was on his way to his last night shift
'And I got to live with that forever and ever and ever and ever.'
The driver crashed into and killed the motorist while arguing with his girlfriend on his mobile phone has been jailed for three years and eight months.
Stratford was in the middle of a third 'emotional' call when he hit the central reservation and slammed into another car on the A34 in Berkshire.
A court heard today he had accused girlfriend Alice East of cheating on him and threatened to kill himself if she hung up.
Railway worker Gavin Roberts died after Stratford's Vauxhall Corsa collided head on with his BMW in the crash in June last year.
Ms East was still on the line when the accident happened and heard the screech of brakes and the sound of the impact.
Stratford was sentenced to three years eight months in prison
Jailing Stratford today, judge Stephen John said: 'This was a wholly avoidable accident which caused a wholly avoidable death. Only you are to blame.'
Australian Mr Roberts had moved to Swindon from Dapto, New South Wales, and worked as construction manager for Network Rail.
The 28-year-old, who was on his way to start what he hoped would be his last ever night shift when the crash happened, died in hospital four days later.
Mr Roberts' father said the actions of a speeding driver in an over-emotional state 'should not be regarded as an accident', but as a 'deliberate series of actions leading towards an inevitable and catastrophic collision'.
'My belief that Gavin's death was totally preventable makes it even more difficult to accept,' he told the court.
Miss Williamson wants her boyfriend's death to highlight the dangers of driving while calling
A statement by Gavin's mother Rose Joshua expressed forgiveness towards the man who killed her son - 'the youngest of my three beautiful boys'.
'I can think of no greater way to honour him than to move on in a positive way,' it read, before turning to address the defendant. 'Lewis, I want you to know that you have my forgiveness and also my compassion.
'I know you didn't mean this and I would not wish your life to be destroyed by what's occurred.'
Painter-decorator Stratford, 24, sat with his head in his hands for most of the hearing. He mouthed the word 'Sorry' to Mr Roberts and Miss Williamson before he was led away to be sent down to the cells.
The court heard that he admitted having consumed alcohol prior to the crash, but due to the nature of his injuries, no breath sample was taken.
Mr Roberts' girlfriend Meg Williamson and his father Geoff Roberts outside court today
A statement from his girlfriend, Miss East, stated: 'He said he was going to the pub with his friends to watch the football. Later that evening she checked her phone to find a series of text messages from the defendant.
'At 9.30pm she described him screaming down the phone at her and accused her of cheating on him and announced he was was on his way down to visit her.
'As he said that Alice East warned him not to drive down as he was ever so angry. She hung up the call and almost immediately she received a call back from the defending saying if she hung up on him he would kill himself.'
A witness picked up the phone after the crash and told Miss East, who was still on the line, what had happened.
After the crash, Stratford was placed in an induced coma and underwent surgery to repair a torn aorta and broken leg, leaving hospital three weeks later.
School teacher Ms Williamson told how she and her boyfriend had been planning a trip to his native Australia at the time of his shocking death.
Victim Gavin Roberts had come to England from Australia and worked for Network Rail
After her meeting with Stratford was filmed by the BBC earlier this month, Ms Williamson said: 'I'm just determined it doesn't happen to anyone else. When I see people using their phones while they're driving I want to tell them what I've been through.
'They know it's illegal, but I want them to be aware of the possible knock-on effect of those couple of seconds while you're staring at your phone.
'I know, Lewis knows and so do all Gavin's friends and family. But I want everyone else to know.'
During a tense and emotional 50-minute meeting between the pair, Stratford repeatedly apologised for what he had done.
Ms Williamson said she didn't want to hate her boyfriend's killer for ever and thought she would forgive him in the future.
In court today, Stratford's lawyer Giles Newell said he was full of 'deep and heartfelt remorse' and was 'eternally grateful' to Ms Williamson for having met with him.
A statement from Mr Roberts' mother stated that she had forgiven the driver who killed him
He said it was totally out of character for his client, who had a full, clean driving licence since 2013 and no previous convictions.
'He knows it is of little or no comfort to Mr Roberts's family that he is wracked with guilt, regret and shame as a result of this.'
Speaking after his meeting with Ms Williamson, Stratford said: 'No one thinks it will happen to them. I've lost my job, lost my car and I've ruined someone else's life. I learned the hard way, but it shouldn't take something like this.
'If I could live without a phone now, I would. I won't ever drive again. Ever. I know I've caused a lot of pain for a lot of people.
'I know what I've done, I know the lives I've ruined and I deserve everything I get from whatever comes now, hate, anger... I've got no excuse for what's happened and am just so sorry for everything. But sorry's not enough.'
The sentencing comes amid a push by police forces around the country to stamp out driving while on the phone.
During operations this week, scores of drivers have been given points and some have lost their licence as officers crackdown on the issue.
A lorry driver was jailed last November for 10 years for killing a family of four on the same stretch of road two months later. He too was using his mobile phone while driving.
A drink driver who was caught twice in one night shocked police when he confessed to a murder committed 25 years ago.
The 52-year-old was taken to a police station last week for getting behind the wheel while over the limit, but he told officers he stabbed a 38-year-old woman to death in November 1991.
He admitted having violent and homicidal fantasies as a 26-year-old student, and rung a woman's doorbell, handcuffed her when she answered and stabbed her repeatedly in Bonn, Germany.
The man admitted stabbing a 38-year-old woman 25 years ago in the city of Bonn (pictured)
Officers were shocked by the confession after they arrested him for drink driving (file photo)
Officers re-opened the harrowing file on the unsolved murder in North Rhine-Westphalia state and believe the man's confession is legitimate, according to The Local.
Investigators are now looking into whether the man from Lower Saxony committed any further crimes.
Police said the man was unsure of why he had offered up the explanation of the death after two and a half decades of silence.
He told officers he had lost hope because the drink driving offences would result in him being sacked.
Cruel video footage showing a bear being forced to perform tricks has shocked and outraged animal lovers.
The clip of two captive bears walking on their front paws during a circus in Iowa was shared by animal rights group Peta after it was taken by a spectator at the show.
In the video, the two bears arrive on a sleigh to join the ringleader.
The bear is led up to a performance platform and is encouraged to try a handstand for the crowds
The ringleader seems to use a whip or rod to encourage the movements, which Peta says shows coercion or force
The bear performs a stunt, getting onto his front paws to perform a handstand, while wearing its sparkly waistcoat and a skirt
One animal is forced to walk on its hind legs while it is pulled by a muzzle and lead around the arena.
The bears have been dressed in sparkly waistcoats and appear to be wearing skirts in the humiliating stunt.
One of the animals then performs his tricks, like handstands, on a raised platform, and walks along while standing on his front paws.
Peta says the bear urinates out of distress.
Peta Foundation director of captive animal law enforcement Brittany Peet said: 'Dragging sensitive bears from town to town and yanking them around for a circus show should have ended in the Dark Ages.
'Peta stands ready to transport these bears to a reputable sanctuary, where they'd never be tormented again.'
The foundation sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture asking them to investigate.
The bear walks down a ramp on its front paws with its back legs in the air. Peta says the urination indicates distress
The animal rights group has offered to transport the bear to a sanctuary and has raised concerns about the circus act
The video was taken by a spectator at the Tangier Shrine circus, produced by the James Cristy Cole Circus, and the segment is called Castle's Bears.
The animal rights group said they showed the video to a bear expert, who said the loud music and noisy crowd of a circus performance is inherently distressing to bears.
Castle's Bears also pulls and yanks on the lead and muzzle to force the animal to comply, which can cause long-term trauma to bears' nerves, spines, and muscles.
The videos were filmed at shows in Nebraska and Iowa.
The bear is muzzled and the leaders use a lead to guide it, which a bear expert says would cause damage to the animal's nerves
The animal is lead back to the centre of the arena after its performance on the raised platform
The animal is led to a seat next to another bear as the show continues. The circus website said it also had tigers and ponies
A spokesperson for Tangier Shrine Circus told the Sun: 'Tangier Shrine has been presenting a Circus in the Omaha Area for approximately 80 years.
'We do our best to contract with a reputable circus promoter. Our current promoter has been with us for over 25 years.
'We are very concerned with the humane treatment of any animals involved with the circus.
'Please direct any inquiries to the specifics of any acts in the circus to the James Cristy Cole Circus.'
On the website for the Tangier Shrine circus, produced by James Cristy Cole, it lists other animal acts including Royal Bengal Tigers, dogs and ponies, and African and Asian elephants.
James Cristy Cole Circuses have been contacted by MailOnline for comment.
The head of music at a 37,000-a-year top private school in Berkshire has been suspended following claims he sexually assaulted a s 12-year-old boy three decades ago.
Sean Farrell, 49, was removed from his post at Wellington College, in Crowthorne, 'several months ago' after a police investigation commenced.
His ex-wife applied for a gagging order to prevent his workplace and job being named when Farrell appeared at York Magistrates Court last week.
However, after it was challenged, the order was lifted, according to The Times.
Sean Farrell appeared in court charged with indecent assault and gross indecency against a boy at Ampleforth College, in North Yorkshire, in the 1980s
He is accused of two charges of indecent assault and two charges of gross indecency against a boy at Ampleforth College, in North Yorkshire, in the 1980s. Farrell denies the claims.
As of this morning, Wellington College, which was attended by pop star Will Young, Made in Chelsea star Caggie Dunlop and James Haskell, England International rugby player, still has Farrell listed on its website as head of music.
A spokesperson for Wellington College said: 'Wellington College confirms that a member of staff has been charged with sexual offences concerning a child.
'The offences are alleged to have taken place in the 1980s, many years before the member of staff was appointed to work at Wellington. He appeared in court on Thursday 23 February 2017.
'In line with our safeguarding procedures, Wellington suspended the member of staff concerned and excluded him from the school site as soon as it was made aware that the police were investigating these accusations.
'We cannot comment further on this situation until the criminal process is completed.'
The charge comes after other teachers at Ampleforth College were accused of sexually assaulting pupils.
Music teacher Dara De Cogan, 58, was recently charged with 12 counts of sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust. The offences were said to have taken place between December 2007 and December 2009.
He pleaded guilty to 10 of the charges and not guilty to two of them.
Cuthbert Madden, 61, the Abbot of Ampleforth College, stepped down from his duties in September last year after it was announced police were investigating claims of historical sexual abuse allegations against him, which were said to have taken place in the 1990s at the school.
He denied any wrongdoing and no further action was taken.
In December, the Charity Commission launched an inquiry into how the school has handled allegations of child sexual abuse.
It has now been revealed he is the head of music at Wellington College in Crowthorne, Berkshire
The commission said the inquiry will examine the administration, governance and management of the charities by the trustees and whether or not the trustees have fulfilled their duties and responsibilities.
In a statement, the commission stressed it will not be investigating the actual child abuse allegations.
It said: 'The regulator's statutory inquiry will investigate the charity trustees' approach to safeguarding and handling of allegations of sexual abuse.
'The investigation follows media reporting regarding individuals with links to Ampleforth College in connection with allegations of sexual abuse.'
Ampleforth College, which opened in 1802 as a boys' school, has more than 600 pupils and admitted girls for the first time in 2002.
Some of its famous former pupils include Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes and former England rugby captain Lawrence Dallaglio.
The school has a history of allegations of abuse with a number of previous convictions, including Father Piers Grant-Ferris who was jailed for two years in 2006 for 20 counts of indecent assault on boys in his care.
A drag queen dressed as the Virgin Mary has sparked outrage in Spain - with thousands calling for him to be prosecuted, and a Bishop saying it traumatised him more than a plane crash which killed 154 people.
During his performance, Nelson Rodrigues, known as Drag Sethlas, donned the religious outfit and danced to Madonna's Like A Prayer.
After footage of the performance circulated, the Association of Christian Lawyers mounted calls for Rodrigues to be prosecuted, and a petition gathered 25,000 signatures.
The performance has been branded 'blasphemous' by a bishop, who said he was more upset by it than a plane crash which killed
Drag queen Nelson Rodrigues said it was not his intention to hurt anyone, but he did say he was looking to 'generate controversy
And Bishop Francisco Casas, who branded the act blasphemous, said it had made him sadder than the day a Spanair plane crashed in Gran Canaria in 2008.
In a statement to El Pais newspaper he said: 'I am sometimes asked what have been the happiest and saddest days of my time in the Canary Island and which day has been the saddest.
'Until now I would reply the day of the accident in Barajas involving the plane bound for Gran Canaria.
Religious leaders have hit out at the footage, and a call has been mounted to prosecute the drag queen
The footage was taken at the Las Palmas Drag Gala competition in Grand Canaria
'From today, I will say that I am living the saddest day of my time in the Canaries.'
His comments in turn attracted criticism from victims of the tragedy.
Pilar Vera, who heads the association of crash victims, and who lost a niece, said in a comment directed a the bishop: 'It wasnt just 154 people who died we are now dead in life, condemned to fight a system that has victimized us still further by denying us justice and truth, as well as wounding us with words like yours.
'If you have forgotten the victims, then do so completely and avoid mentioning them.'
The act has sparked a furious leader in Spain, where the Association of Christian Lawyers has called for Rodrigues to be prosecuted
The drag artist dressed as the Virgin Mary and sang Madonna's Like A Virgin in the footage
Rodrigues said it was not his intention to hurt anyone, but he did say he was looking to 'generate controversy'.
'I succeed in that,' he said.
The footage was taken at the Las Palmas Drag Gala competition in Grand Canaria.
Poland Castellanos, who heads the Association of Christian Lawyers called on the Prosecutor's Office to investigate.
He said, La Confidencial reports: 'Thousands of people have been offended after Drag Sethlas's performance for the value that the Virgin Mary and the crucifixion of Jesus suppose for them, and they have felt deeply hurt.
'Hundreds of people have shown us their discomfort and for them we have decided to go to Justice to investigate these facts.'
Las Palmas Mayor Augusto Hidalgo tweeted that the drag festival represented tolerance.
A teenage dancer who may never walk again says she has had her paralysis pinned on the controversial HPV cervical cancer vaccine by her GP - six years after she had the jab.
Chloe Brookes-Holder, now 18, was a normal 12-year-old who danced six days a week and dreamed of a career on stage when she had the vaccination at school.
But in the months that followed the healthy teenager fell ill with dizziness, headaches, fatigue and bone and joint pain, and her muscles weakened.
Chloe Brookes-Holder was a keen dancer who dreamed of carving out a career on the stage, but now she may never walk again
Since then her health has gradually deteriorated and now is completely paralysed from the waist down.
She has since lost three stone - dropping from 8st 2oz to just 5st - has lost all feeling in her legs and is fed through a tube.
Shocking photos show the teenager's emaciated body, hooked up to wires and drips, as she lies in hospital, where she has spent most of the last 12 months.
Devastatingly, she has been told she may never walk again - let alone waltz about a dance floor - because she still has no feeling in her lower body.
Her mother Sophie Brookes, 41, has even been forced to give up work as a hairdresser and is now her full-time carer.
Chloe's health deteriorated rapidly after having the controversial HPV vaccine
After years of medics telling her it was all in her head, Chloe says her doctor now believes the jab triggered an autoimmune response, causing her body to attack itself.
She is certain her symptoms are linked to the vaccine, which protects against the human papilloma virus and can cause cervical cancer, which kills around 900 women a year.
This comes as dozens of parents call for more research into the jab, which has been routinely offered to 12 and 13-year-old girls since 2008.
Chloe, of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, who was on course to achieving As at GCSE when she fell ill, said: 'At first, my family and I didn't put two and two together.
'We thought the vaccine was safe because they give it in schools and on the letter the parents were given to sign consent I remember reading 'it saves lives'.
'Who on earth would turn a new, supposedly effective form of treatment down?
'We trust our government to keep us safe but now, since getting sick from something the NHS gave me I don't trust any medical professionals that I don't know.
'Why? Because I've been treated in such a barbaric way. Its been hell on Earth.
'Before I got sick I did things girls aged 12 should do. I hiked, mountain biked, went to the park, roller-bladed, went to the cinema and birthday parties - I had friends.
Chloe used to live the normal life of a teenager, but has described her life over the past few years as 'hell on Earth'
Her mum Sophie Brookes, 41, has even been forced to give up work as a hairdresser and is now her full-time carer
'I danced six days a week and loved to go to after-school sport and dance clubs every night. I was on the right road to getting As at GCSE.
'I wanted to have a dance career and my heart bleeds with the torture knowing I may never walk again and therefore ever dance again.'
WHAT IS THE HPV JAB? The human papilloma virus is the name given to a group of viruses that affect a person's skin as well as the membranes lining the body - for example, in the cervix, anus, mouth and throat.
HPV is very common and highly contagious.
More than three quarters of sexually active women acquiring it at some point in their lives.
Most people are oblivious to the fact they have been infected and as a result can pass it on to a partner without realising.
There are more than 100 types of HPV - around 40 of which affect the genital area.
The majority (nine in 10) of infections disappear of their own accord within two years.
The HPV jab has routinely been given to 12 and 13-year-old girls since 2008.
Legally, all students have to sign a consent form before they can receive the vaccine.
Parents are not able to speak on their children's behalf over whether or not to get the vaccine. Advertisement
Chloe was given a course of three Cervarix injections while in year eight at Pittville School in Cheltenham, Glouscestershire, between November 2010 and June 2011.
Between the second and third jabs, she fell ill with a string of viruses, started experiencing debilitating muscle pain and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
A gastrointestinal disorder left her in agony every time she ate, she lost control of her bladder and was later diagnosed with POTS, which causes abnormal heart rate.
A year after having the injection, Chloe also began experiencing paralytic episodes and collapsing at school, unable to control her lower body.
Chloe said: 'My immune system hit rock bottom. It started to heavily affect my school and social life. I used to fall asleep in lessons no matter how hard I concentrated.
'I'd go home and get straight into bed with my uniform on, and despite sleeping up to 15 hours a day the exhaustion never went away.
'I had a gradual input of debilitating muscular pain, chest pain and dizziness, poor temperature control, and severe headaches.'
She added: 'Every day is a battle against the never ending symptoms. It is not 'just a coincidence' as those who don't want to believe it say.
Chloe pictured out and about on her travels prior to her diagnosis, which a GP has linked to the vaccine
'To all mums, dads and daughters out there who are considering getting the vaccine - don't presume, do research and educate before you sign on the dotted line.
'I'm not scaremongering, I just care about others. This is real. This is the pure ugly truth. I want to make people aware so they can make a decision for themselves.'
Chloe claims her GP, who wishes to remain anonymous, has filed a report stating in her medical notes that the cause of her condition is the vaccine.
Cervarix was given to six million girls and while it is no longer offered to girls at school by the NHS, a new HPV vaccine, Gardasil, is.
European Medicines Agency statistics show that up to January 2017, 3,683 adverse reactions to Cervarix were reported, and 11,802 to Gardasil.
Some 380 families, represented by the UK Association for Vaccine Injured Daughters, have called for more information in schools and research into potential side effects.
She began suffering problems after getting the course of three injections while a Year 8 pupil at Pittville School, Cheltenham
Chloe's legs are raised onto some cushions by her mother, who is now her full-time carer
Medics have dismissed their concerns and NHS England insists that the jab is not dangerous, writing on its website that it is a 'safe vaccine'.
Freda Birrell, of the UK Association for Vaccine Injured Daughters, said: 'Many medical professionals will not link the vaccine to the girls' health problems.
'Yet commonsense should speak loudly if their medical records were excellent prior to the vaccine and their health changed dramatically after they had the jab.'
Public Health England and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency issued a joint statement in response to the claims.
They said: 'As with all vaccines, the safety of the HPV vaccine is under constant review. Every report of a suspected side effect is taken seriously.'
They 'concluded that there is no credible evidence of a link between the HPV vaccine and a range of chronic illnesses.
'The European Medicines Agency has also ruled out a link to Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).'
MailOnline has contacted Pittville School for comment.
Remain Tory Anna Soubry said a meaningful final vote was 'critical' as she signalled a Tory rebellion on the issue in the Commons (file picture)
Tory MPs are poised to join a revolt over ensuring Parliament has a 'meaningful' final say on the Brexit deal.
If peers successfully defeat the Government over the issue on Tuesday night, around 20 Conservative MPs are prepared to defy Mrs May to stand behind the plan.
Rebels are determined that when Mrs May comes to Parliament with her Brexit deal the choices available will be more than accepting what she has negotiated or crashing out of the EU without an agreement.
Ministers are braced for defeat on the issue in the House of Lords but will be confident of defeating it when the issue returns to the House of Commons.
The Government insists the amendment would tie the Prime Minister's hands in the negotiations and encourage the EU to offer a poor deal in a bid to stop Brexit.
A similar amendment has already been defeated once in the Commons by a majority of 34.
But Remain Tories say a meaningful final vote is vital as they signalled their intention to rebel again.
Anna Soubry, a Tory MP, told the Telegraph: 'The 'meaningful' vote is absolutely critical, it's the deal breaker.
'I just want us to behave in a grown up way. People have to remember 48 per cent did not vote to leave the European Union.'
The cross party amendment, tabled by Labour in the Lords, would stop Mrs May agreeing a deal with the EU before votes of MPs and peers.
A Labour Lords source said that 'given the scale of the previous defeat and the building up of a cross party campaign on this issue, we are again likely to see the government defeated handsomely'.
Mrs May, pictured on Wednesday with new MP Trudy Harrison, has insisted no deal with the EU is better than a bad deal
And it would also require a vote in favour of leaving the EU without a deal - intended to force the Prime Minister back to the negotiating table if talks break down.
Mrs May has insisted no deal with the EU is better than a bad deal.
No 10 yesterday said it expected MPs to delete any amendments made by the House of Lords.
Mrs May's official spokesman said: 'The Prime Minister has made clear her intention that the Bill should be passed unamended.'
Security has been ramped up at a Belgian train station after an ISIS militant filmed himself there threatening to cop off the heads of civilians and fill the streets with blood.
Islamic State issued the sick threat to Belgium warning an attack on the country is imminent in an eerie video, which starts with a militant showing a piece of paper reading 'we are still here', and shows a terrorist walking through Antwerp.
It is filmed in and around the city's Central Station where police are desperately scouring CCTV footage in an attempt to identify the man behind the camera as extra officers have been deployed.
Scroll down for video
The eerie video starts with the militant holding out a note which reads, 'We are still here'
Video which features the sick threats was filmed outside Antwerp Central Station (pictured)
With Islamic chanting in the background, threats to chop off civilians' heads and fill the streets with blood.
Ahmet S Springs, a senior research fellow and Professor of criminology, law and society at George Mason University released the video, which was shared via ISIS' telegram app.
The former counter-terrorism police chief, who is an expert on the terror group, said chanting in Turkish featured in the video says: 'We honed our knives, coming at you, we will chop off your heads and fill the streets with blood.'
Mr Springs said it was the same chanting used for propaganda videos for the Istanbul attack in which Adbulkadir Masharipov gunned down 39 people at a nightclub.
The video shows the man walking through crowds of people in the threatening clip
Chanting in the clip threatens to chop off the heads of Belgians to fill the streets with blood
The harrowing video cuts short just as the man enters the main hall of the Antwerp station
Local press have reported an increase in police officers at the station today after the video surfaced.
'The police will take the necessary steps to place the Central Station additional supervised pending research and threat analysis of OCAD,' spokesman Sven Lommaert told VTN.
'We are obviously examining the camera images of the station.'
The video shows the man walking along the street outside the station as people pass him on bikes, in cars and on foot.
It cuts off just before he enters the main hall of the station.
Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, leader of ISIS, has been at the helm of the terror group as it carried out a number of attacks in Europe.
Richard Whiteley was part of a group of space enthusiasts visiting the Soviet Union in 1974 under the guidance of astronomer Patrick Moore. Pictured after starting work for ITN following his degree at Cambridge
The mystery over Richard Whiteley's alleged links to MI5 has taken a new twist after it emerged the Countdown star went to Moscow at the height of the Cold War.
Mr Whiteley was part of a group of space enthusiasts visiting the Soviet Union in 1974 under the guidance of eccentric astronomer Patrick Moore.
The news will fuel rumours of the presenter's links to the world of spycraft, which were started by actor Ricky Tomlinson but dismissed as 'nonsense' by former friends.
Mr Whiteley was one of '20 or 30' people on the trip who were 'all space geeks', a woman who took part told Sean O'Neill of The Times.
She said of Mr Whiteley, who presented a current affairs show for Yorkshire Television at the time: 'I don't know why he was on tour, no idea where he was there.'
However, the lady - now an academic - said that 'not at one moment' did she think he was a spy.
Mr Tomlinson, 77, made the startling claim that Whiteley worked for MI5 in an interview as he opened a relaunched Wetherspoons pub in Chester.
But Whiteleys girlfriend when he died, Kathryn Apanowicz, 56, a presenter with BBC Radio York, said: It is absolute bloody nonsense, there is no truth in it whatsoever.
Royle Family actor Ricky Tomlinson (pictured opening the pub in Chester, where trade union meetings used to be held) claims Richard Whiteley was a spy
The 77-year-old actor (left, on Who Do You Think You Are) believes the late Countdown presenter (right, with Carol Vorderman) was an undercover agent for MI5
Sir Patrick Moore, the astronomer and Sky at Night presenter who inspired a generation of stargazers, pictured in a photo released after his death in October 2012
If Richard was a member of the secret service then maybe Ken Dodd was in charge of MI5.
He couldnt keep a secret to save his life and he certainly wasnt a spy; in the Seventies he was driving around in a Ford Escort.'
Mr Whiteley was a student at Cambridge University between 1962 and 1965, graduating with a third-class degree in English from Christs College.
The university is known to be a recruiting ground for the secret services and was attended by the notorious double agents Kim Philby and Anthony Blunt.
But Gyles Brandreth, who was a regular on Countdowns Dictionary Corner, said he had known Whiteley for 40 years and never got any hint he was a spy.
And former Conservative MP Jonathan Aitken, who knew Whiteley, called the claims 'pretty good baloney'.
Mr Tomlinson, a socialist activist, claims Mr Whiteley influenced the jury when he was jailed in 1973 for conspiracy to intimidate, unlawful assembly and affray.
Along with his 'Shrewsbury Two' partner Des Warren, the actor had helped to organise the first national building workers' strike in the upstairs room of the same Wetherspoons pub where he first aired the claims, The Bull & Stirrup.
He believes that the jury's decision to convict him may have been swayed by an ITV documentary which featured the defendants that was aired on the day they retired to deliver their verdict - and which was fronted by Mr Whiteley.
He alleges the secret services wrote, produced and funded the documentary.
The 77-year-old actor is pictured with Caroline Ahern as Denise in the sitcom
A woman who was part of the visit to Moscow said of Mr Whiteley, who presented a current affairs show for Yorkshire Television at the time: 'I don't know why he was on tour'
He told the Chester Chronicle: 'I've got documents at home, which are printed "confidential", "strictly confidential", "not to be seen", but it involves the likes of Ted Heath, Woodrow Wyatt.
'And we've just discovered that they made a film which went out on television the night the jury were out considering the verdict called Red Under the Bed and it was so anti-trade union that two of the jury changed their mind and brought a majority verdict in of 10-2 guilty.'
He added: 'We found out this week that the film was designed, written, made and paid for by the security services.
'Woodrow Wyatt was a member of the security services and unbelievably so was Richard Whiteley who hosted the show.'
The 12-week strike took place after UK building contractors imposed what trade unionists called 'bogus self-employment' rules on their workforce.
The 1973 trial was seen at the time as an attempt to shackle militant, rank-and-file trade unionism.
Actress and radio presenter Kathryn Apanowicz, who was Whiteley's partner for 11 years. They are pictured together in 2004 at Buckingham Palace when Whiteley received an OBE
Whiteley, pictured with Carol Vorderman, fronted Countdown for 23 years
Mr Tomlinson, who appeared alongside Caroline Aherne in Royle Family, said the union meetings were held in The Bull & Stirrup where all the decisions were made.
In December 2015, former shadow home secretary Andy Burnham released documents showing that former prime minister Edward Heath's cabinet and the security services influenced the Red Under the Bed documentary.
The Shrewsbury 24 campaign is calling for the convictions to be overturned by the Criminal Cases Review Commission.
Mr Tomlinson, who also played Bobby Grant in Brookside, claimed his friend Warren, who died aged 66 in 2004, had effectively served a life sentence, because drugs given to him in prison brought on Parkinson's Disease.
He said: 'It killed him, didn't it? We know of four sedatives that were used on him. We also have certain evidence about a doctor that followed him into jail giving him injections.'
THE ACTIVIST TURNED ACTOR WHO WAS MONITORED BY MI5 Ricky Tomlinson was born as Eric Tomlinson in Blackpool, Lancashire, after his mother Peggy was evacuated there during the Liverpool Blitz in World War II. A qualified plasterer by trade, he worked on various building sites for many years becoming actively involved in politics - firstly with the far-right, then more predominantly with the far-left. Along with his 'Shrewsbury Two' partner Des Warren, Mr Tomlinson had helped to organise the first national building workers' strike. He is pictured with his wife Marlene after being freed from Leicester prison Mr Tomlinson (right), a trade unionist, is pictured left leaving a Trade Union Conference in tears In 1968, Mr Tomlinson joined the National Front in support of less immigration after Enoch Powell's Rivers of Blood speech. His views gradually changed over time and, in 1972, he joined the flying pickets in a building workers' dispute in Shrewsbury. The following year, Mr Tomlinson was sentenced to two years in prison after being found guilty of 'conspiracy to intimidate' as one of the so-called Shrewsbury Two, alongside his partner Des Warren. He was released in 1975, he disrupted the TUC conference by shouting from the wings after he had been prevented from speaking from the stage. It was revealed in 2002 that MI5 had monitored him during the 1970s . The 12-week strike took place after UK building contractors imposed what trade unionists called 'bogus self-employment' rules on their workforce. Mr Tomlinson played an active role in the protests and was later convicted Advertisement
Whiteley died in 2005. Before Cambridge, he had attended the prestigious Giggleswick School in Yorkshire, where he was taught by TV presenter Russell Harty.
He joined Yorkshire Television in July 1968. In 1982, the channel started to produce Countdown and Whiteley was chosen as host. He remained on the show for 23 years.
For 11 years, he was in a relationship with actress and radio presenter Kathryn Apanowicz until 2005.
Whiteley had a son, James, with fashion journalist and television presenter Lesley Ebbetts who born in 1987.
He also dated Jeni Cropper for 15 years to him in the 1970s and 80s. He also had a brief relationship with Carry On film actress Angela Grant.
The accountant involved in the infamous Best Picture envelope blunder reportedly wanted to be in a sketch with Jimmy Kimmel during the Oscars ceremony.
Sources claimed Brian Cullinan had pitched a skit featuring him and his colleague Martha Ruiz interacting with the popular TV host - which was shot down by bosses.
The PwC employee, who was 'distracted' tweeting a picture of Emma Stone just minutes before the live gaff, was reportedly hoping for an onstage appearance.
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Sources claimed Brian Cullinan pitched a skit featuring him and his colleague Martha Ruiz (both left) interacting with the popular TV host Jimmy Kimmel during the Oscars
A PwC spokesperson denied the claims - insisting Cullinan simply spoke with producers to ensure he wasn't 'defamed in front of millions' following Chris Rock's parody of the Oscars accountants tradition last year.
'It is standard protocol for PwC to have conversations with the show's producers about the firm's involvement in the show,' a PwC representative told Variety.
'After last year's sketch when the firm was cast in a defamatory way in front of millions of people, Brian Cullinan spoke with the producers to ensure that the firm would not be cast in the same light.
'Brian did not want to perform a sketch during the show.'
Acid-tongued comedian Chris had introduced three Asian children dressed as Academy accountants in last year's Oscars.
Cullinan even asked what to do if the wrong winner was announced the day before the show. On the night, he spent much of his time snapping photographs and posting on social media
The PwC employee, who was 'distracted' tweeting a picture of Emma Stone just minutes before the live gaff, was reportedly hoping for an onstage appearance
Rock hailed the firm's 'most dedicated, accurate and hard-working representatives,' and then the trio walked onto the stage carrying briefcases and wearing tuxedos.
The joke - described as 'tasteless and offensive' at the time - played on the stereotype of Asians being extremely smart, studious and hardworking.
The skit had reportedly caught PwC employees unaware, as bosses hadn't told them about the routine.
Cullinan, who often goes on TV to discuss his Oscar accountancy duties and Tweets photos of celebrities, was reportedly 'distracted' backstage before giving presenters Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway the wrong envelope for best picture.
Breaking her silence four days after the biggest blunder in the 89-year history of the Academy Awards, the president Cheryl Boone Isaacs claimed Cullinan was distracted backstage.
A PwC spokesperson denied the claims - insisting Cullinan simply spoke with producers to ensure he wasn't 'defamed in front of millions' following Chris Rock's parody of the Oscars accountants tradition last year
Acid-tongued comedian Chris had introduced three Asian children dressed as Academy accountants in last year's Oscars
He tweeted (and later deleted) a photo of Emma Stone in the wings with her new Oscar minutes before giving presenters Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway the wrong envelope for best picture.
'They have one job to do. One job to do!' Boone Isaacs said. 'Obviously there was a distraction.'
The academy president said that Brian and Martha Ruiz have been permanently removed from all film academy dealings.
While Cullinan was responsible for handing over the errant envelope that led to La La Land mistakenly being announced as best picture rather than Moonlight, PwC said both partners failed to follow protocols and did not act quickly enough to catch the error.
Likes the spotlight? Cullinan often goes on TV to discuss his Oscar accountancy duties and Tweets photos of celebrities
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' relationship with PwC, which has been responsible for tallying and revealing Oscar winners for 83 years, remains under review, Boone Isaacs said.
'What angered me, I would say, in these last couple days is (the focus on) this 90 seconds and moving to the side the brilliance of the day,' she added.
It comes as Culinan and Ruiz had to be pushed on stage to fix their mistake, the show's stage manager has revealed.
The pair watched from the side of the stage as La La Land was wrongly declared the winner, staring on in horror as the film's cast and crew collected their golden statue and launched into victory speeches.
They were the only people who knew who had won and had been told to spring into action if a wrong winner was declared.
Instead, the pair reacted with 'no urgency' and waited a minute before alerting organizers of the faux pax, according to show staff.
Cullinan is even said to have led them to believe that it was Dunaway who'd messed up the award by reading out the wrong winner, failing to tell them at first that he'd in fact presented her with the wrong envelope.
They then refused to confront the stars on stage and had to be 'pushed' out, Gary Natoli, the show's experienced stage manager, said.
Though 'lovely', he said the pair weren't cut out for the job and that he was shocked by how they handled the catastrophic mistake.
Natoli said the pair had been told the day earlier to run out on to the stage immediately if the wrong winner was announced and that they should have grabbed the mic without hesitation when Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty declared La La Land the winner
'Im sure theyre very lovely people, but they just didnt have the disposition for this. You need somebody whos going to be confident and unafraid,' he told The Wrap.
Cullinan asked what to do if the nightmare scenario occurred the day before the show, being one of only two people asked to memorize the winners.
'I said "If you know who the winner is, you dont need to check with each other. You need to immediately go out and rectify the situation, ideally before the wrong winners get to the mic."'
'And he said, "OK, good, thats what we thought,"' Natoli continued.
On Sunday, Natoli was stood next to Ruiz at the stage left exit and watched as Dunaway declared La La Land the winner.
Gary Natoli, the Oscars stage manager (center wearing a headset) said PwC accountants Brian Cullinan and Martha Ruiz (far right) acted with no urgency after hearing the wrong winner be declared on Sunday and had to be pushed out on to the stage to face La La Land stars who had already taken to the microphone
She'd also been told to memorize the winners but did nothing when La La Land was declared. After around ten seconds, Natoli left for the lobby with host Jimmy Kimmel to start setting up for a comedy bit to close the show.
It comes amid claims Cullinan and Ruiz are now being protected by bodyguards paid for by their bosses after receiving death threats.
The duo have faced a barrage of abuse, leaving chiefs at their employer, PricewaterhouseCooper, fearful for their safety.
Following the blunder, pictures of Cullinan and Ruiz's homes were posted online and a stream of threats were directed at the accountants.
As a result, PwC bosses decided they and their families should be given protection.
Among the vile messages directed at them, TMZ reports, were: 'You f****** idiot, I will f*** you every day'. Another read: 'I hope you get fired and get cancer.'
A gypsy gang embroiled in a long-running feud has been jailed after they deliberately rammed a 32-tonne truck seven times into a house while a family slept.
Shocking CCTV footage showed the skip loader pull up on the road outside the property before rapidly reversing into the house, smashing past two parked cars.
Patrick Maughan, 37, Thomas Maughan, 37, and 52-year-old Frederick Price targeted the home as Simon Doherty, his wife and three children slept inside.
The terrifying attack in Goldenhill, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, caused thousands of pounds of damage in the early hours of October 12, 2015.
The truck reversed into the house in Stoke-on-Trent and managed to cause significant structural damage
The incident caused damage to the family's front room and the gang has now been jailed
Dramatic pictures showed the front wall smashed in and wooden pillars collapsed on the drive and six cars were damaged in the raid.
A court heard the victims were targeted as part of a long-standing row between members of the travelling community.
At least two other vehicles with other suspects inside were in convoy with the HGV on the night of the attack.
Patrick and Thomas Maughan, of Saint Helens, Merseyside, and Price, of Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, admitted conspiracy to commit criminal damage by being reckless as the whether life was endangered.
They were each jailed for three years and two months at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Thursday.
During sentencing, Judge David Fletcher, said: 'It is tragic. The reason for the feud has almost been lost. People do not really remember what the starting point was.
'The 32-tonne lorry was reversed time and time again into the front of the property. It caused serious structural damage and at the time a family were inside and asleep.
'It must have been a wholly terrifying experience, especially for young children. The neighbours had no involvement in the feud.
'They were very frightened about what was going on.
'You may not have thought someone was living there. There was nothing or little done to check that out.
'This must stop here and now. The only thing that will happen if it doesn't is there are going to be more and more tragic consequences.'
Patrick Maughan (left) and Thomas Maughan (right) have been jailed for three years and two months each after admitting criminal damage and being reckless to the endangerment of life
A wall outside the property in Stoke was damaged (left) and Frederick Price (right) has been jailed for his involvement
Thomas Kenning, prosecuting, said Mr Doherty was asleep with his wife and three children when the lorry was reversed into the front of the house.
Mr Kenning said: 'The lorry was reversed into the front of the house approximately seven times, and it was a big lorry.
'There had in the past been bad feeling between two groups - the Maughan family and the Price family against the Doherty family.'
Mr Kenning said the group originally planned the ram attack in the early hours of October 12, 2015, but it was abandoned because a police officer was in the area.
Incredibly, no one was injured by the raid, but the Doherty family said they live in fear and are always 'looking over the shoulders'.
Simon Killeen, defending Patrick Maughan, said his client was remorseful and wants to move on and leave the feud behind.
He added: 'They believed the house was empty.'
Michael Davies, for Thomas Maughan, said the father-of-five has already served the equivalent of an 18-month sentence either in custody or the subject of a curfew.
Jonathan Duffy, defending Price, added: 'He allowed himself to get involved. It really wasn't his argument.
'It is 16 months since the event and there has been no repetition. This feud is over.'
This is the truck which the gang used to deliberately crash into the family's semi-detached home
The exterior of the home was damaged following the incident which was carried out following a feud between families
Eileen Price, 49, from Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, admitted the same charge but was handed a two-year sentence suspended for two years.
Ian Lloyd, 31, of Middlewich, Cheshire, admitted conspiracy to steal vehicles and was jailed for 16 months, suspended for two years.
Nathan Ward, 28, also of Middlewich, is due to be sentenced today after admitting conspiracy to steal motor vehicles
Detective Sergeant Adrian Webb, who led the investigation for Staffordshire Police, said: 'This attack was extensively and carefully planned to intimidate a local family.
'That family, including their three children, were in bed when their house was rammed - not once but seven times by a very large lorry.
'This attack was done at night, targeting a semi-detached house in a residential area.
'It was sheer luck that no one was injured when the lorry damaged the house.
'This attack not only targeted the intended victims but put other local residents at risk and caused thousands of pounds damage to several vehicles.
'Such criminal activity will not be tolerated in Staffordshire, and as we have shown, we will take positive action against those who engage in it.
'The safety of all our communities is an absolute priority.'
A stunned driver found himself caught in the middle of a bizarre police chase as officers pursued four horses in a head-on chase down an A road.
Michael Curtis, 40, from Ashington, Northumberland, was leaving for work at 4am on the deserted A189 Spine Road when he saw blue lights coming towards him on December 22 last year.
The baker could not believe his eyes when he spotted the four horses galloping down the road with the police vehicle in tow.
Michael Curtis was travelling down the usually quiet A189 road in Northumberland when he came across the strange sight
The four horses are galloping toward him with the police hot on their tails to try to lead them back to safety
Michael, a baker, usually travels early in the morning to get to work, so was particularly surprised to find himself sharing the road
Michael, who shared dashboard camera footage of the unusual encounter earlier this month, said the police's intervention saved him from careering into the horses in a potentially serious collision.
Michael said: 'I was just going to work as I do at the same time every other day and it is regularly very quiet at that time, particularly in this part of the world.
Michael Curtis, a baker from Northumberland, who came across the horses at 4am as he went to work
'I was driving along and saw a driver coming the other way flash his lights and wave his arm out of the window and thought that was a bit odd.
'Then I saw an oncoming vehicle with flashing blue lights and that was all I could see.
'It was only when I got 15-20 metres away that I saw the horses and that was a bit startling and a bit of a shock because you are going at about 60mph on that round normally.
'I thought that the police would have blocked it off because the horses were coming into oncoming traffic.'
Michael said the video was a hit with friends, family and other dashcam users.
He added: 'It was all quite bizarre and when I shared it, I got the usual horse jokes that you would expect so people seemed to enjoy it.
'I hadn't shown anyone the video to anyone outside my family until this week and they have all had a laugh about it.
Michael's dashcam caught the video and he said his family had thought it was funny, but he hadn't shared it wider until recently
The baker said it was a good thing the police had already started taking charge of the situation and admitted it could have ended badly
'But it was a good job that the police were there because I could have crashed into one of them.
'It is a funny video but it could easily have turned more serious - I believe that there has been a fatal collision between a car and a horse on that road in the past.'
Northumbria Police were contacted for comment.
An online joke linking Theresa May's lent promise to the closure of a crisp factory has been shared more than 50,000 times.
The Prime Minister revealed on Tuesday that she would not be eating crisps during the 40 days of Lent.
The following day, the first day of Lent, it was announced that PepsiCo was considering closing the Walkers crisps factory in Peterlee, County Durham.
This joke about Theresa May giving up crisps has been liked more than 130,000 times
Linking the two stories, Twitter user @matbeal posted pictures of two headlines, next to the caption: 'How many crisps was she eating?'
The joke has since been received more than 50,000 retweets and been liked more than 130,000 times.
The tweet's author joked that she had to turn the notifications off on her phone due to the huge response.
Her friends branded her a 'Twitter legend' while a number of other users passed the joke off as their own.
The post is far from the most retweeted message ever however, which is thought to be Ellen DeGeneres's famous selfie from the 2014 Academy Awards, which showed her with stars included Jennifer Lawrence, Brad Pitt and Kevin Spacey.
It has been shared more than 2.2million times.
An animal lover saved the life of a python who had got itself into a sticky situation.
The big snake fell into a drum of tar and was drowning in the thick black liquid.
Luckily wildlife activist Saurav Borkotoki came to the animal's rescue in Tezpur, Assam, India.
He said: 'I was informed about the presence of a huge python on the campus of public road construction department.
'When I reached the spot, I was a python caked tar was lying still in one the tar drums.
'After taking a closer look, I realised the python had fallen unconscious apparently fighting long enough to free itself from the sticky material.'
An animal lover saved the life of a python who had got itself into a sticky situation
The big snake fell into a drum of tar and was drowning in the thick black liquid
The wildlife activist brought the python home and carefully removed all of the tar from the snake's skin.
After making sure it was back up to full health Saurav released the snake back to a pond last month.
The 30 second clip was shared online.
A White House spokeswoman said Friday that Vice President Mike Pence 'did everything to the letter of the law' after public records revealed that he used a private email account to conduct public business as Indiana's governor.
Comparing that mini-scandal to Hillary Clinton's more expansive problems stemming from her use of a private email server while she ran the State Department, said Sarah Sanders, is 'apples to oranges.'
'There's light years of difference,' she told reporters aboard Air Force One.
'He wasn't handling classified info like she was,' Sanders said, adding that the laws are different in Indiana and Pence followed them. 'All of his emails he turned over specifically to be archived, which is why anybody even knows about the account.'
And Clinton 'lost at least 30,000' emails 'who knows how many more?'
Pence himself told a pool reporter on Friday that 'there's no comparison whatsoever between Hillary Clinton's practice having a private server, misusing classified information, destroying emails when they were requested by the Congress.'
And Clinton was photographed Friday on an airplane, reading a newspaper front page story about Pence's email woes.
Vice President Mike Pence was hit with news stories on Thursday about a personal AOL account he used to conduct state government business before he ran on Trump's ticket
A Twitter user posted a photo of Hillary Clinton on Friday, showing her on an airplane reading a USA Today story about Pence's email woes
The Indianapolis Star reported that emails provided through a public records request show that Pence communicated with advisers through his personal AOL account on homeland security matters and security at the governor's residence during his four years as governor.
The governor also faced email security issues. Pence's AOL account was subjected to a phishing scheme last spring, before he was chosen by Donald Trump to join the GOP presidential ticket.
Pence's contacts were sent an email falsely claiming that the governor and his wife were stranded in the Philippines and needed money.
As Trump's running mate, Pence frequently criticized rival Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server as President Barack Obama's secretary of state, accusing her of purposely keeping her emails out of public reach and shielding her from scrutiny.
On Friday, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said comparing Pence's situation to Clinton's more expansive email problems was a case of 'apples' and 'oranges'
Sarah Sanders, the White House spokeswoman, doubled down on that defense, stressed to reporters on Air Force One that state and federal laws are different and claiming that is efforts to turn over the messages to be archived are 'why anybody even knows about the account.'
'He did everything to the letter of the law,' she said.
Pence spokesman Marc Lotter added that 'the comparison is absurd' because Clinton had set up a private server in her home at the start of her tenure at the State Department and, unlike Clinton, Pence did not handle any classified material as Indiana's governor.
Pence told the pool reporter that he is 'very confident we are in full compliance with all of Indiana's laws. And in my service as vice-president I will continue that practice.'
Pence blasted Clinton for 'having a private server, misusing classified information, destroying emails when they were requested by the Congress'' the issue contributed greatly to her stunning November election defeat
The governor moved to a different AOL account with additional security measures, but has since stopped using the new personal account since he was sworn-in as vice president, said Lotter.
Lotter said Pence 'maintained a state email account and a personal email account' like previous governors in the state. At the end of his term Pence directed outside counsel to review all of his communications to ensure that state-related emails were transferred and properly archived by the state, the spokesman said.
The newspaper reported that the office of Pence's successor, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, released more than 30 pages from Pence's AOL account, but declined to release an unspecified number of emails because they were considered confidential.
Public officials are not barred from using personal email accounts under Indiana law, but the law is interpreted to mean that any official business conducted on private email must be retained to comply with public record laws.
The state requires all records pertaining to state business to be retained and available for public information requests. Emails involving state email accounts are captured on the state's servers, but any emails that Pence may have sent from his AOL account to another private account would need to be retained.
At the end of his term, Pence hired the Indianapolis law firm of Barnes & Thornburg to conduct a review of all of his communications and that review is still ongoing, Lotter said. Any correspondence between Pence's AOL account and any aides using a state email account would have been automatically archived, he said.
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has taken aim at The Project's team after he said he was not briefed about the questions before being ambushed live on air.
Mr Joyce was visibly perturbed when questions were posed to him about government sectors leaking private information on the Channel 10 program on Friday night.
Waleed Aly asked the deputy prime minister whether it was appropriate for governments to be leaking private information to journalists to settle a public debate.
The Project's Waleed Aly said it was 'fair' to ask the Deputy Prime Minister on government issues and they had briefed his media adviser
After a brief answer Barnaby Joyce unleashed on The Project panel claiming he was not briefed about the topic and it is unfair for them to expect him to be proficient in answering questions about every government sector.
'As you know, you should get the agricultural minister on to talk about agriculture not veteran affairs,' Mr Joyce said while pointing at the camera.
Waleed Aly said it is 'fair' to ask the Deputy Prime Minister to address government issues, which is when Mr Joyce dismissed the question.
Barnaby Joyce became visibly frustrated at the line of questions
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce took aim at The Project panel because he claimed he was not addresed on the appropriate topic
'Mate it would help if you actually called me before to tell me you wanted to talk about this,' he said.
'I heard about this discussion as I went from the centre of town to here, I mean fair go.
'I have driven about 300-400 kilometres today... the first I hear about this conversation is when I get from town to here. And you expect me to be proficient in every sector of every department, I'll give you my best shot but really and truly guys.'
Mr Joyce became uninterested after his response and looked away from the camera as the interview came to an end.
Mr Aly said he felt for Barnaby Joyce because the topic may not have been relayed to the Deputy Prime Minister before the interview.
The attorney for a young woman who was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement after speaking at a news conference about immigration says she's been told the woman will be deported without a hearing.
Abigail Peterson, an attorney for 22-year-old Daniela Vargas, tells news outlets that authorities informed her Thursday that Vargas' case will be handled as a 'visa waiver overstay,' which means she won't be given a hearing and will be flown back to her native Argentina.
ICE agents detained Vargas on Wednesday after she spoke at a news conference in Jackson, Mississippi, and called on President Donald Trump to protect immigrants like her.
Daniela Vargas (pictured) was one of several so-called Dreamers who spoke out at the press conference Wednesday. A few hours later she was under detention by ICE
Vargas' status in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program had expired in November 2016, and she applied to renew it mid-February after coming up with the $495 application fee.
Vargas was seven years old when her parents brought her from the city of Cordoba, Argentina.
She graduated from high school in 2013, attended community college and started at the University of Southern Mississippi, aspiring to be a math professor.
Miss Vargas said at the press conference: 'A path for citizenship is necessary for DACA recipients but also for the other 11 million undocumented people with dreams.'
She recalled watching ICE agents taking away her father and brother and said: 'I was scared for my life.'
Several Dreamers were invited to the joint session of Congress this week by Democrats as President Trump (pictured) made his first address. He has said he will retain DACA
Senator Kamala Harris, a Democrat from California, tweeted: 'Talking publicly about fears of deportation is not a crime and should not get someone detained.'
Another senator, Dick Durbin, a Democrat from Illinois, said he was seeking more information on her case from the Department of Homeland Security.
Sen Durbin tweeted: 'Disturbing that ICE may have followed her from an immigration press conference.'
Her attorney said she had been granted the two-year protection twice before, in December 2012 and in November 2014.
Ms Peterson said detaining someone with a pending DACA application was 'very unusual'.
'Why they would move forward the way they have is, honestly, mind-boggling,' she said.
An executive order President Trump issued in January compels federal immigration agents to step up enforcement, but Trump has said they would focus initially on criminal offenders.
A mother last night told of the nightmare of being given a month to save her babys life.
Connie Yatess son Charlie, who is seven months today, is desperately ill and doctors say he should be allowed to die.
Yesterday she begged a High Court judge for time to secure pioneering treatment in the United States. Mr Justice Francis agreed and gave her and her partner Chris Gard until April 3 to make their case.
Battle: Heartbroken Connie Yates and Chris Gard are in a race against time to raise money for their son Charlie (pictured together) to receive pioneering treatment in the United States
Battle: Parents Connie Yates and Chris Gard are trying to save their seven-month-old Charlie Gard, who suffers from a genetic condition, and were told they now have a month to prove their case
It felt surreal, a nightmare, said Miss Yates, 31. It is terrifying and we feel sick that in just a month Charlies fate will be decided. But we are grateful that we have this month to save Charlie. We have already done a huge amount of research into his condition but we will be working round the clock.
Described by the judge as utterly devoted parents, the couple have found an American doctor offering to treat Charlie.
Their son is believed to be only the 16th person in the world to be diagnosed with his particular strain of mitochondrial depletion syndrome which saps energy from the organs and muscles.
Unwell: Six-month-old Charlie Gard is believed to be only the 16th person in the world to be diagnosed with his ultra-rare genetic condition
His lungs are so weak he is being kept alive on an artificial ventilator in intensive care at Great Ormond Street Hospital, in London. But there is no accepted cure for his condition and doctors there believe they have exhausted all treatment options.
The hospital has asked the High Court to agree it would be in Charlies best interests to withdraw the artificial ventilation and allow him to die with dignity.
Charlies parents looked red-eyed and bereft as they walked into the court yesterday facing a life-or-death legal struggle over their tiny son. Mr Justice Francis said it was one of the saddest cases to come before the court and the most tragic situation.
He promised them whatever the rights and wrongs of the case and whatever the outcome they had his deepest sympathy.
Bereft: Last night Charlie's mother said: 'It's as if Charlie is being sentenced to death'
The court heard that a hospital in Spain has also taken the view that Charlie cannot be effectively treated, but that medics in the US have offered an experimental therapy which is said to have shown promising signs.
The American hospital, which cannot be named for legal reasons, accepted Charlie as a prospective patient on Wednesday this week. He would require an air ambulance equipped with intensive care facilities and doctors and nurses to fly him there.
His family has set up a GoFundMe web page to raise money.
Miss Yates said last night: Today made us realise the magnitude and the huge battle we face. Yet we have taken strength by all the support we have received, for example reading the messages from Mail readers and on our GoFundMe page.
It has helped us so much to read these messages and know how much the public are supporting us.
We appreciated the kind words from the judge. He was right in what he said about it being a heart-breaking case and that gave us comfort. The American doctor we are in contact with is an eminent neurologist, one of the most respected doctors in the world and incredibly experienced in this field.
If we had any doubt that the treatment he plans for Charlie was not in his best interests or it was not bona fide medical treatment we would simply not even consider it. But we have seen unpublished research for ourselves research from eminent US hospitals which we want the UK doctors to take a proper look at and have seen how potentially good the results can be. This is why we still have real hope that this could save Charlies life and potentially other lives. The court was told Charlie is deaf and cannot cry, making it difficult to assess whether he is suffering.
Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital in London, where Charlie is in intensive care (pictured), is asking the High Court to sanction withdrawing his life support
Great Ormond Streets QC, Katie Gollop, said the hospital felt that every day that passes is a day that isnt in the childs best interests and would like his treatment to be withdrawn by Easter so he could die with dignity.
But 32-year-old Mr Gard told the Mail: When the hospital lawyer said that about every day that goes by isnt in the childs best interests, that was a like a knife to our hearts. We do not agree, because we can see Charlie is comfortable. He is growing and looks bonny not signs of a child in any pain. Despite the hospitals application to the court, made last week, Charlies parents realised only this week that medics actually thought their son was better off dead. They rushed to hire a solicitor on the evening before yesterdays hearing, and then at midnight barrister Sophia Roper was instructed.
She told the court: His parents believe Charlie is in much better shape than the hospital does.
Miss Yates (pictured left with Charlie) wrote about how her son's plight has taken a toll on her (shown right)
Mr Justice Francis, sitting in the Family Division, said: This is a very, very sad and tragic case one of the saddest types of cases to come before this court. His parents have been described as utterly devoted to Charlie and work extremely hard to be expert parents in this disease.
Charlie was born healthy on August 4 last year, weighing 8lb 3oz, but after delighting his first-time parents with smiles at just six weeks he became progressively weaker, and was admitted to hospital at eight weeks old.
For the past few months, Miss Yates, a carer, and Mr Gard, a postman, from Bedfont, south-west London, have practically lived at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Mr Gard spends 14 hours a day from 10am to midnight stroking his sons hand, reading him stories and chatting to him. Miss Yates arrives at 11am and stays until 4am. They take it in turns to lie on the bed and cuddle Charlie.
Charlie was born on August 4 and delighted his first-time parents (shown) when he began smiling at six weeks. But his health declined and at eight weeks he was admitted to hospital
How doctors can withdraw treatment For centuries, saving life was the fundamental principle of a doctor's work. This was enshrined in the Hippocratic Oath - named after Hippocrates, pictured, the founding father of medicine who died in 380BC. But since the 1990s, doctors have been ordered to act in the 'best interests' of patients, meaning they can withdraw treatment if they believe it is in a person's 'best interests' to die. Advance directives in which someone can order their life-sustaining treatment to be withdrawn if they become incapacitated were given legal force by Labours 2005 Mental Capacity Act. However senior judges have recently ruled that, despite the Act, advance directives should not be obeyed by doctors and that all cases in which withdrawal of treatment will result in death should be decided by a court. Advertisement
Yesterday the judge was told they were anxious to keep the hearing as short as possible to get back to his bedside.
Miss Yates has told the Mail how in those precious moments in that hospital room we are a family together, a team, adding: If we change his nappy, he moves his arms. Occasionally, he manages to open his eyes. It is such a struggle because this wretched disease affects every part of the body it even makes his eyelids weak.
But if we lock eyes we can see him trying to open them wider. And we feel that our presence calms Charlie. Its not much, but every little flicker convinces us that we, his Mummy and Daddy, are doing the right thing to not give up on him.
Great Ormond Street Hospital has said in a statement: Charlie has a very rare and complex disease, for which there is no accepted cure.
Charlie was very unwell when he was admitted to Great Ormond Street Hospital and has remained under 24-hour care on our intensive care unit. We have tried to strengthen Charlie and give him the best possible chance of survival. But his condition has continued to deteriorate and we now feel we have exhausted all available proven treatment options.
We appreciate how hugely distressing this is for his family and we continue to support them in every way we can, while advocating, what we believe, is best for Charlie.
Yesterday the judge said: I will end by wishing everybody the best possible outcome to this appalling case.
To donate to Charlie's appeal, click HERE
A disease that harms EVERY cell in the body Mitochondrial disease affects the bodys cells and can cause heart, liver, kidney, breathing, sight and hearing problems. Every cell in the human body contains mitochondria, which have been described as the tiny power stations of our bodies, supplying the energy every cell needs. If our cells do not have enough energy, then the bodys organs and tissue do not work properly. Mitochondrial disease can cause energy blackouts in practically every part of the body. Approximately one in 200 babies born in the UK has slight genetic mistakes that can cause the disease. Charlie has a particularly rare type of the disease known as mitochondrial depletion syndrome, and within that he has a strain that is so uncommon he is believed to be only the 16th person in the world to have it. Mitochondrial disease can affect anyone. Depending on the underlying genetic error, it can be passed down from the mother or father or both, as in Charlies case it seemed to be inherited from his parents who did not know they carried the rare gene. It is also possible that the mistake may have arisen for the first time in the affected person. There is currently no cure although some treatments have been found to partially alleviate the symptoms. Advertisement
Next step in fight to help Charlie live Charlie is in a stable condition and not believed to be in any pain, according to his parents. He is currently being kept alive with a ventilator because his lungs are too weak to breathe unaided, and he has a nasal tube for food and water. With doctors in the UK saying there is no hope, his parents believe his only chance lies in the US, where ground-breaking research might help him. They are pinning their hopes on an American doctor who is testing a new treatment called nucleoside bypass therapy. The idea would be to give Charlie compounds called deoxynucleosides, which healthy people produce normally, to repair his damaged DNA. But before Charlie can try the treatment, his parents need to convince the High Court it has a chance of working. Yesterday they took the first step by requesting all of Charlies medical notes from the NHS. Great Ormond Street Hospital, where he is being treated, has agreed to hand them over. These will be studied by the familys lawyers, and also sent to the US hospital, where doctors will assess his condition and write a statement explaining how they hope to treat him. The parents say the US medics are positive, and are hopeful the statement will help convince the court to give Charlie a chance. On April 3, a judge will hear arguments from both the parents and Great Ormond Street. Unless it changes its stance, the hospital will say its doctors do not believe nucleoside treatment will work for Charlie. Then a judge will decide whether to grant or refuse Great Ormond Streets application to withdraw his life-support. Even if this is refused, the parents face a further hurdle the huge cost of transporting Charlie across the Atlantic and funding the treatment. The family believe they need to raise 1.2million to cover the cost of the transport, the treatment, their legal fees and the costs of staying in the US. Because of his condition, Charlie will need a private plane with intensive care equipment and doctors and nurses on board. The familys online fundraising page, entitled Please help to save Charlies life, had last night raised more than 120,000. Advertisement
'Every little flicker of his eyes tell us we're doing the right thing'
By Alison Smith-Squire
Officially there is no cure for mitochondrial disease, but Charlie's parents (pictured) discovered an American doctor is trialling a pioneering treatment
There is a routine Connie Yates and her partner Chris Gard have got into over the last five months. Every morning, shortly before 10am, Chris leaves his 'home', which these days is a small room reserved for parents of gravely sick children at Great Ormond Street Hospital, to visit his seven-month-old baby, Charlie.
Staff there are familiar with his frequently weary, but steadfastly positive presence arriving on the ward, as the doctors are finishing their rounds.
He then makes his way to the intensive care unit, where little Charlie awaits. For the next 14 hours, he will sit by his son's side, stroking his hand, reading him stories and chatting to him telling him it won't be long until he's back home, going for walks in his pushchair, to the park to feed the ducks.
At 11am, Charlie's mother joins him. The couple will share a hug and a few catch-up messages, before they take turns to lie on the bed and cuddle Charlie. They leave only briefly, usually one at a time, to get a sandwich or coffee.
At midnight, Chris goes back to their room their flat in Bedfont, south-west London has not been slept in for months to get some sleep. Miss Yates will stay until 4am, occasionally stroking her baby's downy head as he sleeps, and soothing him as he wakes.
After kissing Charlie's cheek, she whispers: 'Keep fighting and we'll keep fighting for you'. And she will head off into the dark, and climb into bed next to Chris, before another day begins.
Chris Gard, 32, a postman, from Bedfont, South-West London, have kept a bedside vigil for his son (pictured together)
This is the routine that has given them hope over the last five months, as they await the treatment that potentially could save their much-adored boy.
Charlie has mitochondrial disease, a degenerative genetic condition which stops the body's cells producing enough energy to function. 'We need to be there, we need to spend every waking hour with him,' says Miss Yates.
'We know we may not have much time left. In those precious moments in that hospital room we are a family together, a team. If we change his nappy, he moves his arms. Occasionally, he manages to open his eyes. It is such a struggle because this wretched disease affects every part of the body it even makes his eyelids weak.
'But if we lock eyes we can see him trying to open them wider. And we feel that our presence calms Charlie. It's not much, but every little flicker convinces us that we, his Mummy and Daddy, are doing the right thing to not give up on him.'
But that is exactly what they fear medics at Great Ormond Street are doing. They claim it is 'not in the best interests' of Charlie to continue his life-sustaining treatment. Last week the hospital applied to the High Court for the little boy's artificial ventilation to be withdrawn ending his life. 'We were shocked and horrified to find we are being taken to court and that the hospital are asking for Charlie's life support to be switched off,' Miss Yates told the Daily Mail.
Charlie is in a stable condition and not believed to be in any pain, with the disease manifesting itself as weakness in his muscles, his parents say
'I can't put into words how horrible it is to see court papers with our baby's name on them. It's as if Charlie is being sentenced to death.
'Our parental rights are being stripped yet we are not bad parents. We love our son and want the very best for him.'
Charlie was born a healthy 8lb 3oz in August last year, after a problem-free pregnancy. Aged just six weeks he began smiling, and his proud first-time parents were overjoyed.
'Charlie was such a bonny baby,' remembers Miss Yates, 31, a carer. 'I breastfed him from birth and he was reaching all his baby milestones, gurgling and smiling.
'But by eight weeks old I started to get worried. He was losing weight, and, as other babies seemed to grow more robust, he seemed to lose strength.
'I took him to our local hospital but he rapidly declined. He choked on his milk and after developing aspiration pneumonia in October, he was transferred to Great Ormond Street.'
Tests revealed Charlie had mitochondrial depletion syndrome so rare he is believed to be only the 16th sufferer in the world. Tragically, it seemed to be inherited from his parents who did not know they carried the rare gene.
Doctors said there was little they could do for the condition, which leaves muscles so weak even the lungs cannot function without a ventilator. 'I'll never forget the day a doctor sat both of us down and said gently there was nothing they could do,' Miss Yates said. 'The best thing we could do was to let our son slip away.'
However, the couple refused to believe nothing could be done.
Miss Yates said: 'I spent countless days and nights on the internet researching the condition, speaking with doctors and scientists and eventually found a new treatment called nucleoside bypass therapy being trialled in the US.
'By giving Charlie the compounds a healthy person naturally produces called deoxynucleosides Charlie's DNA could potentially be repaired.
'The NHS couldn't pay because the scientific proof needed isn't yet published. But I spoke with a neurologist in the US and two others doctors, who are confident it will work, and we set up an online page to raise the 1.2million needed.'
Mr Gard claims he and his partner spoke with UK consultants who initially appeared supportive, and indicated they were prepared to wait while the couple found the money.
Charlie (pictured with father Chris) has an ultra-rare form of mitochondrial disease, a debilitating condition which saps energy from the body's organs and muscles
But they were dealt another blow when last month a partial 'do not resuscitate' order was put on Charlie.
Miss Yates said: 'We were with Charlie when one day a lawyer turned up. After ushering us into a side room he dealt some devastating news. While ventilation would be continued, the doctors felt it was not in Charlie's best interests to give him any other treatment.
'So if he had a heart attack and died his heart would not be restarted. We were shocked but the way it was presented to us we had no choice.' Optimistic Charlie could be saved, the couple launched their fundraising page. Miss Yates recalled: 'Within hours money flooded in and our campaign was trending on social media with celebrities donating money.
'Every day we woke to messages from people we've never even met who identified with our nightmare. They kept us going.'
As their fund has grown it last night stood at around 50,000 Charlie has grown too. Miss Yates said: 'When he went on life support in October he was terribly underweight but being tube fed he gained weight, and grew from this tiny, scrap of a thing to a gorgeous, beautiful, seven-month-old with dimples.'
The couple were stunned to read in court documents that UK doctors believe it is 'in Charles's best interests not to undergo nucleoside therapy' with concerns over 'maintaining Charles's dignity'. 'When I read them I felt sick,' said Miss Yates. 'It was as if suddenly all our hope had been taken away. It seemed so cruel and pointless.'
She continued: 'We can't just let our baby die when there is hope and treatment available that might help him.
'If Charlie receives this treatment and it does work it won't just be his life that's saved, it will be many more children in future who are born with this horrible disease. If he dies at least we will have done everything we possibly can. Like any loving parents, we will do whatever it takes to save our baby's life.'
The man accused of setting fire to an abandoned Melbourne factory and killing three people inside could harm himself in custody, a court has been told.
Darren Patrick Clover, 52, is charged with three counts each of murder and arson causing death, and one count of arson.
He did not front court on Friday, choosing to stay in his cell.
Darren Patrick Clover has been charged with three counts each of murder and arson causing death, and one count of arson
Harrowing pictures show the charred beds from a fire that swept through an abandoned Melbourne factory
Images showed blackened clothing, furniture and piles of rubbish salvaged from the fire
Three people were burnt alive in the fire
Pictures show the charred remains from a Melbourne fire that killed three
Appearing on his behalf, Legal Aid lawyer Katie Powell told Melbourne Magistrates' Court there were 'significant concerns' her client would harm himself in custody.
Clover had a formal diagnosis of depression and was taking prescription medication, Ms Powell said.
She asked for a mental health assessment to be conducted.
Police arrested Clover on Thursday after firefighters discovered the bodies of three people, believed to be squatters, in an old Footscray ropeworks factory.
A fuel bottle found at the scene of a factory fire in Footscray, Melbourne
The bodies of three people were found inside a room at the rear of the factory
The victims' next of kin had yet to be notified, the court heard.
The factory site had been recently sold and was set to be developed into apartments.
Plans for the redevelopment had been approved by the council the night before the fire.
Police will be formatting CCTV footage related to the incident, and will be lodging forensic and DNA evidence for analysis, the court heard.
The police prosecution asked for more time for the hand-up brief to be compiled, considering the complexity of the investigation and the severity of the alleged crimes.
Police are still working to notify the victims' next of kin
Forensic officers bag evidence at the scene of a factory fire in Footscray
Three people died in the abandoned factory fire in Footscray, Melbourne
No application for bail was made.
Clover is due to appear via video link for a committal mention on June 9.
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78.
A fuel bottle was found at the scene of the blaze
The scene of the factory fire in Footscray, Melbourne. The bodies of three people were found inside a room at the rear of the factory
A major battle to liberate the Islamic State group's stronghold of Raqqa in northern Syria is looming after victories on the battlefields of Mosul and Palmyra.
The Pentagon has drawn up a secret plan which is likely to lean on local allies with stepped-up American support, but questions still remain as to who exactly will lead the operation to kick ISIS out of its de facto capital.
Syrian government forces, Turkish troops and their Syrian militia allies, and US-backed Kurdish forces all have their eye on Raqqa.
Each vehemently rejects letting the others capture the city and would likely react in anger should the United States support the others, and it is not clear that any has the resources to take the city on its own.
The fall of Raqqa, the Islamic State group's de facto capital and largest remaining stronghold, would be the biggest defeat for the militants in Syria since they captured the northern city on the banks of the Euphrates River in January 2014.
An Iraqi Army officer (right) uses his mobile phone to film a rocket launched towards Islamic State militants during a battle with Islamic State militants in Mosul,Iraq
Iraqi family displaced due to fighting between the Iraqi army and ISIS, waiting at a temporary shelter to be sent to a refugee camp in Hamam Ali town, southern Mosul
Iraqi soldiers fire a rocket toward Islamic State militants on the outskirt of the Makhmour south of Mosul, Iraq
Smoke billows as Iraqi forces hold a position on a street in Mosul on March 1, 2017, during an offensive by security forces to retake the western parts of the city from Islamic State
Since October, US-backed coalition forces have been advancing on Mosul in an attempt to re-capture it from the terror group's control.
Civilians have been evacuated and ISIS have been driven out of the city one village and area at a time.
This morning, an Iraqi military commander says forces have taken control of another neighborhood in western Mosul.
Brigadier General Yahya Rasool, spokesman of the Joint Military Operations Command said despite bad weather, Iraqi special operations forces have completely retaken the Wadi Hajjar area from militants.
However, commanders on the ground say that clearing operations are still continuing.
Wadi Hajjar lies just northwest of the city's international airport.
Iraqi forces, including special operations forces and federal police units, launched an attack on the western part of Mosul nearly two weeks ago to dislodge the extremists.
Since the offensive began, more than 28,000 people have been displaced by the fighting, according to the UN.
Across the border in Syria, army units were clearing land mines and explosives left behind by ISIS in the historic town of Palmyra on Friday, a day after government troops and allied militiamen recaptured it from the extremists.
The military expects the process to be long and difficult due to the large number of mines planted by the terror group.
Syrian troops fully recaptured Palmyra on Thursday after a push that saw the militants' defenses crumble and ISIS fighters flee in the face of artillery fire and intense Russia-backed airstrikes.
The Tetrapylon and Roman Amphitheatre in the ancient city of Palmyra is blown up in conflict
Fighters from the al-Qaida linked Islamic State, now called the Islamic State group, marching in Raqqa, Syria, where attention will now turn
Now, all eyes turn to Raqqa.
Faysal Itani, an analyst at the Washington-based Atlantic Council, said: 'Raqqa is more of an abstract goal: everyone wants it in principle, but no one is willing to commit the resources and bear the risks necessary.'
Turkey rules out a US compromise in Syria Turkey is ruling out compromise with the United States over the involvement of Kurdish militia fighters in an assault in Syria, an obstacle for Washington's plan to deploy its strongest allies on the ground in a decisive showdown with Islamic State. Donald Trump has made defeating ISIS one of the key goals of his presidency, and his new administration received a draft Pentagon plan on Monday to accelerate the campaign. Raqqa in Syria, one of Islamic State's two de facto capitals along with Mosul in Iraq, is expected to be the scene of the final battle to crush the jihadists' self-proclaimed Caliphate sometime this year, after a US-backed Iraqi government assault on Mosul already under way since October. But putting together a united ground force to take Raqqa has so far proven a confounding task in Syria, where the United States, Turkey, Russia, Iran and Arab states have all backed local forces in a multi-sided civil war since 2011. All the foreign powers oppose Islamic State, but their Syrian proxies have mainly fought against one another. Turkey, with the second largest army in NATO, is adamant that Washington should switch support for the planned Raqqa offensive from the Kurdish YPG militia to Syrian rebels Turkey has trained and led against Islamic State for the past year. Advertisement
President Donald Trump has vowed to 'obliterate' the group.
'We will work with our allies, including our friends and allies in the Muslim world, to extinguish this vile enemy from our planet,' he told Congress on Tuesday.
The top US commander in the campaign against IS, Lieutenant General Stephen Townsend, has said he believes Raqqa and Mosul will be taken within six months.
So far, the offensive on Mosul has been underway four months, with only half the city captured from the militants in ferocious street-to-street urban combat.
And that is using a relatively intensively trained and united military, backed by heavy U.S. firepower and commandos on the ground - a contrast to the comparatively undisciplined and fragmented forces the US has to choose from as allies in Syria.
Raqqa is a smaller city than Mosul, but the militants are believed to have dug in with powerful fortifications there.
In Syria, US-backed predominantly Kurdish fighters known as the Syria Democratic Forces, or SDF, remain Trump's best bet.
Aided by US-led coalition airstrikes and some 500 US special forces troops deployed in an advisory role, the force has been marching toward Raqqa since November.
Closing in on the city from different directions, it is now stationed some eight kilometers (five miles) north of the city.
The US military recently provided a small number of armored vehicles to the US-backed force to give better protection from small arms fire and roadside bombs as they get closer to Raqqa.
Further aid to the rag-tag group, however, raises sensitive questions over how to deal with Turkey, a NATO ally with much at stake in Syria.
Turkey considers the main Kurdish militia in Syria - known as the YPG, and an affiliate of the US-backed SDF - a terrorist organization, and has vowed to work with Syrian opposition fighters known as the Free Syrian Army to liberate Raqqa.
In a dramatic reversal of years of the Obama administration's calls for the ouster of President Bashar Assad, Trump has hinted he might be willing to work with Assad's army and Russia, whose year-and-a-half military intervention has propped up Assad's government.
Assad's forces are preoccupied with other battles, however, and would likely need significant US military involvement to take on Raqqa.
On Wednesday, the Syrian military recaptured the central town of Palmyra, a city located in the desert south of Raqqa that has gone back and forth between control of the military and the extremists several times.
The government forces have also clashed with the Turkish-backed Syrian fighters, who block their path to Raqqa.
Iraqi security forces inspect a recently discovered tunnel that had been used by Islamic State militants as a training camp, in western Mosul, Iraq on Wednesday, March 1. 2017
Syrians are sharply divided over who should enter Raqqa.
Many opposition supporters consider the SDF, which maintains a tacit non-aggression pact with Assad's forces, to be a hostile group.
There are also fears of tensions if Raqqa, home to a nearly 200,000 mainly Arab population, is taken by the SDF, a coalition of Kurdish, Arab and Christian fighters.
'Let us be frank that any force that will liberate Raqqa, other than the Free Syrian Army, is going to be a new occupation force with different flags and banners,' said Mohammed Khodor of Sound and Picture Organization, which tracks atrocities by ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim was even more blunt, warning that if the SDF enters Raqqa, it will hurt relations between Ankara and Washington.
Since the Mosul offensive began, more than 28,000 people like these have been displaced by the fighting, according to the UN
'We have said that a terror organization cannot be used against another terror organization,' the Turkish leader told the state-run Anadolu news agency.
The Kurds reject that notion and insist that only forces fighting under the SDF banner will liberate Raqqa.
'Turkey is an occupation force and has no legitimate right to enter Raqqa,' said SDF spokeswoman Cihan Sheikh Ehmed.
In a text message exchange from northern Syria, she said the SDF has the experience in fighting IS to finish the operation.
Battlefield victories by the SDF against the Islamic State group have brought growing Western support.
Asked if adding more US troops or better arming Syria's Kurds were options, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said he will 'accommodate any request' from his field commanders.
In Mosul, the US-led coalition is playing a greater role than ever before in the fight against IS and coalition forces have moved closer to front-line fighting.
U.S. Air Force Col. John Dorrian says the increased support is an effort to 'accelerate the campaign' against the Islamic State group, noting that launching simultaneous operations in both Mosul and Raqqa 'puts further strain on the enemy's command and control.'
'It is a complicating factor when you don't have a partner government to work with,' conceded Dorrian, adding that whoever the coalition partners with in the fight for Raqqa is 'a subject of ongoing discussions.'
Wladimir van Wilgenburg, a Middle East analyst at the Jamestown Foundation who closely follows Kurdish affairs, says the US-led coalition wants to have a quick end to IS in Raqqa, from which external operations against the West are planned.
That means it would prefer to work with the Kurdish-led SDF forces 'since they are able to mobilize manpower unlike the Turks,' he said.
An ISIS flag flies in the city of Palmyra - but not for long as victory nears in the city
Allied forces stand on the rubble of the Tetrapylon and Roman Amphitheatre in Palmyra
An Iraqi soldier inspects a recently-discovered train tunnel, adorned with an Islamic State group flag
In any case, the battle for Raqqa is sure to be a long and deadly one. It took the SDF nearly 10 weeks to capture the northern Syrian town of Manbij from IS last year.
It took Turkish forces and allied groups more than three months to retake the town of al-Bab, a costly battle that killed dozens of Turkish soldiers and many civilians.
Raqqa is much larger than either Manbij or al-Bab.
Some Syrian opposition activists say the extremists dug a trench around it to make it difficult for attackers to storm it.
'It would be difficult for any troops,' said Itani of the Atlantic Council.
'Witness the slow and ugly progress in Mosul as well. Raqqa would be tough,' he said.
A jealous husband doused his wife in petrol and set her alight after flying into a rage over innocent selfies she posted on Facebook.
Chatchawarn Tarrin, 28, had been married to Nednapha Nuankhul, 26, since January last year but became possessive and abusive months into the marriage.
Ms Nuankhul posted three innocent pictures on Facebook in December - sending her husband into a jealous fury.
A jealous husband doused wife Nednapha Nuankhul, 26, (pictured) after she posted three innocent selfies on Facebook. Pictured right, one of the selfies Ms Nuankhul uploaded to the social media site. Pictured left, the woman after the horrific attack
Chatchawarn Tarrin, 28, flew into a rage after his wife posted the pictures on social media. The couple got married in January last year
The mother-of-one tried to flee but Chatchawarn allegedly poured fuel on her then set her alight at their home in Amphoe Chiang Kham, northern Thailand.
Ms Nuankhul suffered horrific burns across her entire body and face - needing three emergency operations and several more in the coming months.
But incredibly, Ms Nuankhul said she forgives her husband - who is awaiting sentencing - for the sake of their son who she doesn't want to be affected by the alleged attack.
The mother-of-one tried to flee but Chatchawarn allegedly poured fuel on her then set her alight at their home in Amphoe Chiang Kham, northern Thailand
Ms Nuankhul, who has now been released from hospital, said: 'It has scarred me on the outside and in my heart, too. But I have to forgive my husband because we have a child together.
'When the fire was burning I felt like I knew that hell was real. It was the worst pain and terror anybody could ever imagine.
'I'm like this now forever and I know that hell exists.
She has since been released from hospital. She said: 'I'm like this now forever and I know that hell exists.' Pictured, Ms Nuankhul when she was in hospital
Ms Nuankhul said she forgave her husband, who is awaiting sentencing for the crime. She said she wants to concentrate on caring for her son
'You can run away from anything but you cannot run away from karma. Nobody knew this would happen but some things we just cannot escape.
'My husband will be full of sin and he will feel karma one day, too. Now my husband cannot run away from anything. He has been put in prison and he has a son that needs care and a father.'
Friend Sudarat Khunarup took pictures of Ms Nuankhul to raise money for her medical care for bandages and treatment for the wounds plus skin grafts.
She said: 'Nednapha had oil poured on her by her husband. She survived it but she is in a lot of pain and needs a lot of medical help.
Pictured, two of the three selfies Ms Nuankhur posted on Facebook before her husband flew into a rage. Friend Sudarat Khunarup took pictures of her to raise money for her medical care for bandages and treatment for the wounds plus skin grafts
'She has had surgery on her neck, mouth and chin two or three times already. Her fingers are also very badly damaged and she needs more surgery on her right arm, and she has many ligament problems now.
'She cannot work and she her husband cannot support her because he is in prison. Now she needs help with necessities such as water, alcohol ointment for the wounds, cotton fabrics, dressings and other medical supplies.'
Chatchawarn is being held by police after admitting the attack. Officers at the Chiang Kham police station have not told Nednapha when he will be sentenced and for how long.
A spokesman said: 'This was a conjugal issue and it is currently being investigated so we can give the correct sentence.'
Russia's top diplomat says the uproar over U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions' meetings with the Russian ambassador is a replay of McCarthyism.
Sessions recused himself Thursday from any probe that examines communications between President Donald Trump's aides and Moscow following revelations that Sessions spoke twice with the Russian ambassador during the campaign and failed to say so to Congress.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov argued Friday that contacts with officials and lawmakers are part of any ambassador's duties.
He says the pressure on Sessions 'strongly resembles a witch hunt or the times of McCarthyism, which we thought were long over in the United States as a civilized country.'
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Speaking out: Russia's foreign minister Sergey Lavrov intervened in the row which centers on his ambassador in Washington's contacts with the Trump campaign
Not quitting: Sessions said he would sit out any decision on prosecutions which could arise from current investigations into whether Russia meddled in the election - but that he had not lied to the Senate
Senator Joseph McCarthy in the 1950s led a hunt for communist traitors he believed worked in the government and the army.
Trump lept to the defense of Sessions on Thursday night, hours after the attorney general removed himself from all investigations involving the presidential campaign in a stunning turnaround to save his job - and the president also called the row a 'witch hunt'.
'Jeff Sessions is an honest man. He did not say anything wrong. He could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not intentional,' Trump said in a statement, which he later tweeted.
'This whole narrative is a way of saving face for Democrats losing an election that everyone thought they were supposed to win. The Democrats are overplaying their hand. They lost the election and now, they have lost their grip on reality.
'The real story is all of the illegal leaks of classified and other information. It is a total witch hunt!'
Sessions defended himself in a similar manner in an interview with Fox News' Tucker Carlson Thursday night, saying he could only remember meeting with the Russian ambassador twice and that they hadn't discussed the campaign in any significant way.
The attorney general described his two encounters with Russian ambassador Kislyak, saying one was a 'non-political meeting' with about 25 ambassadors in his senator's office in September.
Sessions told Carlson his discussion with Kislyak had centered on Ukraine, and assured the host the talk wasn't 'improper'.
He also recalled giving a talk during the Republican convention in July, saying he had given a talk then mingled with the crowd, which happened to include Moscow's envoy.
President Donald Trump says he has 'total' confidence in his attorney general and does not think he should recuse himself from Justice Department investigations involving Russia. Pictured right is Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak
The attorney general insisted that he had decided to recuse himself because he had been involved in the campaign and therefore didn't think he could be objective - and pledged to do the same thing for all investigations possibly related to the campaign in the future.
Sessions remained tight-lipped during the interview about whether he believed Russia had influenced the outcome of the election.
Carlson asked him whether Trump's campaign believed Russia had favored the mogul, to which Sessions replied, 'I haven't heard that.'
THE SESSIONS 'LIES' WHICH STARTED THE RUSSIA ROW During Jeff Session's Attorney General confirmation hearing on January 10 he was question about the Trump campaign's relations with Moscow. Sen. Al Franken: 'If there is any evidence that anyone affiliated with the Trump campaign, communicated with the Russian government in the course of this campaign, what would you do? Jeff Sessions: 'Sen. Franken, I'm not aware of any of those activities. 'I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians.' Advertisement
The host then asked whether Sessions thought there had been a 'witch hunt' against him, echoing Trump's statement, to which the attorney general replied, 'I think it was hyped beyond reason.'
Asked about numerous leaks related to Trump's administration, the attorney general said he found them 'troubling' and part of an 'unhealthy trend'.
At a news conference, Lavrov said Russia isn't going to mimic the U.S., but added that 'if we applied the same principle to Ambassador (John) Tefft's activities in Russia and his contacts, it would have made quite a funny picture.'
In a sarcastic Facebook post, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said she met Tefft in the ministry's lobby and warned him that he was putting himself in danger by meeting with Russian diplomats.
Asked to comment on the situation, President Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, cited the U.S. leader: 'We have nothing to add to the expansive definition given by President Trump.'
The Sessions case is widely seen in Moscow as part of efforts by Trump's foes to block any possible rapprochement with Moscow. Russia-U.S. ties plummeted to their lowest level since the Cold War times during Barack Obama's presidency over the Ukrainian crisis, the war in Syria and other issues.
Trump had come into office hoping to mend ties with Russia, expressing admiration for Putin.
Russian lawmakers and political commentators said the allegations by U.S. intelligence that Russia meddling in the election to help Trump defeat Hillary Clinton will likely continue to weigh over his administration and prevent it from launching a meaningful dialogue with the Kremlin any time soon.
In a conference call with reporters, Peskov lamented the lack of cooperation with the U.S. on the Syrian settlement beyond the U.S. diplomatic presence at peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital of Astana that Russia and Turkey brokered earlier this year.
'Similarly, there has been no movement forward regarding cooperation in the fight against terrorism, which causes regret,' he said.
'Without waiting for these contacts to start, Russia has been consistently contributing to the fight against terrorism and scoring results,' Peskov said, pointing at the Russian military's role in driving the Islamic State group from the historic town of Palmyra.
Putin: Aides lament lack of meaningful progress with Trump
Trump has repeatedly promised to cooperate with Russia in fighting the Islamic State group in Syria. Obama's administration had ruled out such cooperation because of Moscow's support for Syrian President Bashar Assad.
Other issues on the crowded Russian-U.S. agenda leave little hope for any quick progress.
On Ukraine, any Trump move to soften the stance on Russia's annexation of the Crimean Peninsula and its support for a separatist insurgency in eastern Ukraine would anger his Congressional foes and put him in an even more precarious position.
If Trump makes any attempt to ease the sanctions imposed on Russia by Obama's administration could face strong resistance in Congress.
On the nuclear arms control, Trump's intentions to modernize the U.S. arsenals and his criticism of the 2010 New START nuclear arms treaty would potentially put him on a collision course with Moscow, which has signaled its desire to extend the deal after it expires in 2021.
But for now, the Kremlin is trying to show patience.
Peskov sought to play down Trump's proposal to raise military spending by 9 percent, saying that's a domestic matter for Washington. 'It would hardly concern us until a rise in spending upsets the existing balance of strategic deterrence,' he said.
Pictures posted by a woman thought to show her preparing a bear's paw to eat have caused an outcry on China's social media.
The two images, reportedly uploaded by a businesswoman from Anhui, show the bear's paw submerged in water in a sink and on a chopping board.
Asian black bears are a protected species in China. Chinese police have launched an investigation into the matter.
The woman posted a set of two pictures showing a cooked bear's paw on a group chat
She captioned 'stewed bear's paw is no different to a pig's trotter...' but later denied eating it
According to a screen grab circulated on Weibo, a Chinese social media platform, the pictures were uploaded to a group chat on Chinese messaging app, WeChat, on December 31, 2016.
However, the pictures were made public today causing shock and anger online.
According to a report in Beijing News, users of the WeChat group chat claimed that the uploader, known as 'Man Yoga - Tingting', is a woman from eastern China's Anhui province.
The woman, identified as Shi Tingting, is said to run a yoga club called Man Yujia (Man Yoga) in the Changping district of Beijing.
In the post, she wrote: 'Stewed bear's paw is no different to a pig's trotter...'.
The woman uploaded two pictures. One picture showed a comparison of the size of a human palm and a bear's paw. The other showed a bear's paw submerged in water in a sink.
Screenshots from the original post were uploaded to Weibo, China's equivalent to Twitter, this morning.
A volunteer took a screenshot of the post and reported to Beijing Forestry Department today
Beijing's Changping Forestry Police received reports from web users today.
According to Beijing news, police officers contacted Shi, but the woman denied the allegations.
Shi said she had downloaded the pictures from the internet and she wanted to share them with friends because she found them 'funny'.
The woman also mentioned that she is a vegetarian and has never eaten a bear's paw before.
Police authority are currently investigating the case.
Asian black bears are listed vulnerable under the red list from International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and grade II in endangered and protected species of China.
According to the Chinese law on the Protection of Wildlife, it is illegal to hunt, import or export any endangered species and shall be confiscated if found by customs.
Two Victorian MPs were reportedly chauffeured to Bruce Springsteen's regional concert in ministerial cars.
Attorney-General Martin Pakula and Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan clocked up 150km for a return journey to Hanging Rock in Victoria.
The revelations they used separate taxpayer-funded cars to see 'The Boss' on February 11, have reignited the Victorian parliamentary perks scandal.
Two Victorian MPs were reportedly chauffeured to Bruce Springsteen's regional concert in ministerial cars. One of them was Attorney-General Martin Pakula (pictured left)
Mr Pakula and Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan (pictured) clocked up 150km for a return journey to Hanging Rock in Victoria
Macedon MP and Cabinet Secretary Mary-Anne Thomas also attended the Springsteen concert as guests but caught the public bus from Woodend, reported the Daily Telegraph.
Mr Pakula defended he and his colleague on Friday evening, saying they were on government business.
'I was invited to the event in my official capacity as Minister,' he said in a statement.
'Jacinta Allen and I talked to the organisers about how we can draw more events to regional Victoria in the future.'
Premier Daniel Andrews on Thursday announced all parliamentary allowances are under review after he sacked the Speaker and his deputy for claiming $140,000 between them to live in seaside towns rather than their electorates.
Macedon MP and Cabinet Secretary Mary-Anne Thomas also attended the Springsteen concert (pictured) as guests but reportedly caught the public bus from Woodend
The claims are being investigated by Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings and parliament's audit committee.
Opposition MP Brad Battin accused Mr Andrews of 'covering up' tax rorts by his Labor colleagues.
'The rorting from the Andrews Labor government is simply a disgrace. The premier is failing to address the issue. He is more interested in covering up and protecting his mates than doing the right thing,' he says.
However, Mr Andrews on Thursday said he would commit to providing greater public disclosure on parliamentary allowances.
Possible changes to the entitlements will be announced in the coming weeks.
Luke Monk (pictured) was captured on CCTV threatening staff in a Co-op store in Derbyshire armed with a knife
A robber who was captured on CCTV threatening Co-op shop staff with a knife before fleeing with more than 2,000 and cigarettes has been jailed for six years.
Terrifying CCTV footage shows Luke Monk, 28, and an unknown accomplice, bursting into the store armed with knives.
The 2.43-minute clip shows them bundling two female members of staff into the back office of the store in Sawley, Derbyshire.
At one point, Monk, wearing a motorcycle helmet, grabbed a terrified shop assistant while pointing a blade at another worker behind the till.
The crooks fled but Monk, of no fixed address, was caught following a police appeal last year.
He was jailed on Thursday after admitting robbery at Derby Crown Court.
Recorder Allan Mainds said: 'I saw the video of what took place. Frightening circumstances. You brandishing, clearly a substantial weapon, a knife.
'The impact, psychologically, on one of the ladies has been substantial. You took the leading role.'
The court heard Monk led the raid on the shop as workers were cashing up at 10pm on August 23 last year.
Monk was heard shouting: 'We want all the money - open the safes'.
After forcing the workers into a back office, Monk became 'angrier and angrier' as staff failed to open the safe, the court heard.
Monk was wearing a motorcycle helmet (pictured) and held a knife as he entered the Co-op store
Terrifying CCTV footage shows Luke Monk, 28, and an unknown accomplice - who was wearing a hat - bursting into the store armed with knives
When it became clear that they couldn't open the safe, Monk pointed his knife at one of the shop workers.
Sarah Slater, prosecuting, said: 'They tell him he can have cash from the tills.
'He takes what he can out of the safe and then goes towards the tills. The tills are emptied and all the cigarettes are put into bags.'
After grabbing 2,021 in cash from the till, Monk and his accomplice tried to kick the front-door down which was now locked, before a member of staff opened it and the fled.
Bizarre footage taken outside the shop then appears to show Monk skipping away while his accomplice carries a bag bulging with cash and cigarettes.
Monk went on the run but was eventually arrested on January 18 in Spondon, Derbyshire.
Footage showed Monk, wearing a helmet, go behind the counter and demand money from the till
The 2.43-minute clip shows them bundling two female members of staff into the back office of the store in Sawley, Derbyshire (pictured)
During the appeal, police took the unusual step of releasing a picture of him, saying he was the prime suspect.
A 58-year-old staff member later told police that she had to leave her job because of the impact of the robbery.
The court heard Monk had previously been convicted of offences of violence and of robbery when he was younger.
Alwyn Jones, defending, said: 'He has already, via the prison department, taken steps to transfer to HMP Dovegate, as they operate a therapeutic community programme, a programme he seeks to go on to address his offending.
'He is not a lost cause.'
Mohammed Humza, 26, seen outside Southwark Crown Court on March 3, falsely claimed he owned Sheikh Mohammed Alibrahims luxury motor
A supercar thief who stole a 97,000 Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe from a Saudi prince is facing jail.
Mohammed Humza, 26, tricked the DVLA by falsely claiming he owned Sheikh Mohammed Alibrahims luxury motor parked in Londons exclusive Mayfair district.
He then ordered new keys for the Rolls Royce and sold it to Shaks Specialist Cars in Huddersfield for 27,500.
This was along with a blue BMW 5 Series, worth 36,220 new and white Mercedes-Benz A Class.
Humza also used the same scam to claim he was the lawful owner of a Porsche 911 belonging to Nicholas Cattelian, a Ferrari California belonging to Sara Duncan, and an Aston Martin DB9 belonging to Jake Urich.
Today at Southwark Crown Court he admitted one count of theft and five counts of fraud by false representation.
Humza, wearing a grey Hugo Boss sweater and smart blue trousers, spoke only to enter his guilty pleas and remained stony-faced during the brief hearing.
Judge Martin Griffith said: You have pleaded guilty to what are clearly serious matters.
Mohammed Humza, 26, tricked the DVLA by falsely claiming he owned Sheikh Mohammed Alibrahims Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe,(pictured) which was parked in Mayfair
He then ordered new keys for the Rolls Royce (pictured) and sold it to Shaks Specialist Cars in Huddersfield for 27,500
'Im sure you have been told that the chances are you wont be leaving this court in liberty the next time you come.
As an act of mercy Im prepared to allow you time to sort out your family arrangements.
The court heard Humza fooled the DVLA by filing a bogus V62 form claiming he was the new owner of the Rolls Royce.
Sheikh Alibrahim says he was unable to reply to the DVLA on whether the ownership had changed because he was abroad.
Humza,from Watford, was released on conditional bail until his sentencing at Southwark Crown Court on 13 March. Pictured outside the court today, left and right
The prince said only he and his chauffeur were allowed to get behind the wheel and claimed the car was inspected every week.
Humza,from Watford, was released on conditional bail until his sentencing at Southwark Crown Court on 13 March.
He has been ordered to observe an electronically monitored curfew between 8pm-7am while he is on bail.
They are some of Australia's most spectacular tourist attractions, but they have still managed to attract some of the most spectacularly awful reviews online.
Disgruntled travellers have flocked to travel website TripAdvisor to leave scathing reviews about Australian landmarks including the famed Opera House, Surfers Paradise and even Uluru.
The reviews range from the hilariously frank to the downright cringeworthy.
Arguably one of Australia's most well-known landmarks, the Opera House was reduced to nothing more than 'brown concrete'
Arguably one of Australia's most well-known landmarks, the Opera House was reduced to nothing more than 'brown concrete' by one particularly unimpressed visitor.
'If you like brown concrete with dim lighting you're in for a treat. Life is too short do something else,' they said.
Another visitor from February 2016 said the Opera House was only good for an 'iconic Sydney picture' but not much else.
'What looked alright from afar revealed its tired baggy eyes upon closer inspection,' they said.
Another visitor from February 2016 said the Opera House was only good for an 'iconic Sydney picture' but not much else
'Whoever decided teeny tiny white tiles was a good choice of building material should be locked away. Overall the appearance was simply dirty, dated and simply displeasing.'
Sydney was not alone in its ability to leave tourists with a bad taste in their mouth.
Queensland's usually beloved Surfers Paradise, on the Gold Coast, was referred to as 'white trash paradise' by a man going by the name Jonas G.
'One of the trashiest, most horrid places I have ever visited,' he said.
Queensland's usually beloved Surfers Paradise, on the Gold Coast, was referred to as 'white trash paradise'
'One of the trashiest, most horrid places I have ever visited,' one reviewer said about the beloved Queensland beach-side town
'The beach itself is paradise, hence the name I guess? The surroundings though are hell.
'Friday and Saturday night come and you even fear for your safety on the streets with poorly dressed, drunk holiday makers and pub crawlers.'
Surfers Paradise rakes in a staggering 12 million tourists each year, and has made a name for itself as one of Queensland's most popular getaway destinations.
But it failed to live up to the hype for one man who called it 'depressing and ugly'.
'The beach itself is beautiful, but the high rises everywhere lining the coast are depressing and ugly,' they said.
The Pinnacles in Western Australia were also hammered, with people claiming they were left utterly disappointed
The Pinnacles in Western Australia were also hammered, with people claiming they were left utterly disappointed.
'And that's it?,' a reviewer from the UK named Mark said.
'Really unsure as to what people are raving about. It's literally a collection of eroded jagged rocks sticking out of the ground, a large collection of them at that.'
Mark was not alone in his disappointment.
One reviewer from Singapore called The Pinnacles 'overrated and overpriced'.
'Horrible! Simply just rocks,' they said.
'Pot holes everywhere! Dangerous! Come on Australia, this is a major tourist road,' one woman said about the Great Ocean Drive
Further south, Australia's scenic Great Ocean Drive also fell victim to a scathing online attack.
'Pot holes everywhere! Dangerous! Come on Australia, this is a major tourist road,' one woman said.
In one particularly hilarious review, Charlie from the Gold Coast said they were left bitterly disappointed because Cockatoo Island in New South Wales didn't live up to its name.
'The whole island is full of birds and bird poo, but no cockatoos like the name suggests,' Charlie said about Cockatoo Island in New South Wales
'The whole island is full of birds and bird poo, but no cockatoos like the name suggests,' Charlie said.
'Angry seagulls come attack, especially when you walk near their chicks.
'It was wet, cold and windy when we went, so wasn't exactly the nicest day. Personally, I don't recommend wasting a day in Sydney going here.'
In the heart of the Northern Territory, Uluru, was also blasted on TripAdvisor.
'The champagne and food offered to all group travellers does not make up for the boring view and the trillions of flies and the fact that you have to lift the netting to eat,' one person said.
'I do not care how the sun sets, it's just not that pretty.'
'It'll cost you an arm and a leg to get here. After we paid to enter the park, we were told we couldn't climb the rock. It wasn't worth the time and expense to get here just to look at it and photograph it. To make matters worse, photos are even prohibited in certain areas,' another person said.
'The champagne and food offered to all group travellers does not make up for the boring view and the trillions of flies and the fact that you have to lift the netting to eat,' one person said about Uluru
The scathing online reviews of Australia's tourist hot spots prove a far cry from their usually glowing reputation.
The old Melbourne Gaol also failed to impress, racking up a cocktail of varied reviews.
Even locals claimed the gaol tour left them 'terrified', and not in a good way.
'I hated the tour of Melbourne Gaol. I had no idea what we were getting ourselves in for,' Lyndel from Melbourne said.
'Yelling, screaming and being treated like a prisoner I really think they should at least word you up on that sort of thing. Not nice.'
A BBC journalist has recounted the horrifying moment he and his camera crew were surrounded by thugs and assaulted for carrying out an 'illegal interview'.
John Sudworth was attempting to interview a woman in the Hunan Province in central China when he was forced to sign a confession saying he had broken the law and was guilty of 'behaviour causing a bad impact'.
He said since the attack, which saw the crew's equipment smashed, he has not heard from Yang Linghua, the intended interviewee, and has sought assurances from the Chinese government that she is safe.
John Sudworth and his camera crew were assaulted by a group of 20 thugs and forced to sign a confession for carrying out an 'illegal interview'
Ms Linghua had claimed that her father was beaten to death in a land dispute, but efforts to get justice were denied to her family, who were instead placed under house arrest.
They had intended to travel to Beijing, where The National People's Congress (NPC) was being held, to put their case forward.
When the team arrived in her village to carry out the interview, Sudworth recalled, they were surrounded by 20 thugs, as well as uniformed police officers and foreign affairs officials.
They were made to delete their footage and sign a confession.
Sudworth said the story 'reveals more about the exercise of power in China than any interview ever could'
Sudworth wrote on the BBC website: 'The story we ended up with... reveals more about the exercise of power in China than any interview ever could.
'It is one that involves violence, intimidation and a forced confession - my first in my long reporting experience in China - in which I found myself apologising for "behaviour causing a bad impact" and for trying to conduct an "illegal interview"'.
Recounting the ordeal, he wrote: 'As soon as we arrived in Yang Linghua's village it was clear they were expecting us.
'The road to her house was blocked by a large group of people and, within a few minutes, they'd assaulted us and smashed all of our cameras.'
Ms Linghua was hoping to travel to the National People's Congress to raise her family's plight
They were then chased and surrounded by a 20-strong group, including police officers, and made to sign a confession.
The journalist wrote: 'It was a very one-sided negotiation, but it at least gave us a way out - a luxury denied to the petitioners who find themselves on the receiving end of similar intimidation and abuse.'
He said Ms Linghua's predicament was not an isolated case, with a woman in her 70s who wanted to appeal for a longer sentence for her husband's murderer among those prevented from travelling.
He wrote: 'Meanwhile, on the eve of China's parliamentary gathering, many of its citizens - often those, it could be argued, who are most in need of parliamentary representation - face similar abuse.
'And despite having signed that confession I make no apology for trying to interview them.'
James Dwerryhouse (pictured) died in hospital nurses allegedly removed monitoring equipment following an operation
A seven-year-old boy has died after claims vital monitoring equipment was turned off for two hours at the same hospital where Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie were born.
James Dwerryhouse, who had sleep apnoea and needed constant monitoring when asleep, died in hospital after his brain was starved of oxygen.
The youngster appeared fine following a routine operation into ongoing health issues and even enjoyed a FaceTime session with his siblings from his hospital bed.
But a Serious Incident Report has revealed nurses at London's Portland Hospital removed vital monitoring equipment after the operation at 1.15am and didn't reconnect it until 3.25am.
Just hours later his heartbroken parents, John, and Marguerite, both 51, were called back to hospital and told their son was unlikely to recover.
He was transferred to the Treehouse Hospice in Ipswich, Suffolk, where he died the following day on August 28 last year - just two days after his successful operation.
The nurses at the Portland Hospital are now being investigated by police over the death of James, from Ipswich, Suffolk, and the family have since launched legal action.
A number of celebrities - including Victoria Beckham, Claudia Schiffer and Liz Hurley - have chosen the hospital in Great Portland Street, central London, for childbirth.
Meanwhile, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie were born at Portland Hospital.
Mrs Dwerryhouse said: 'It has been completely heartbreaking.
'James had health issues and needed a lot of health support in his life, but he was full of life, cheeky, funny, happy, and occasionally mischievous, like all little boys.
'Only days earlier he'd been to a summer club and he'd been chasing around, up and down the slides and having a great time.
The youngster (pictured) had sleep apnoea and needed constant monitoring when asleep
James (pictured with his parents John and Marguerite Dwerryhouse) died on August 28 last year
'He wasn't a fragile boy at all, he wasn't poorly, and he certainly wasn't a boy who was at risk of dying.
'This was a routine operation, and the operation itself was a complete success.
'To then lose him simply because hospital staff haven't cared for him and checked on him as they should is something we cannot accept and never will.
'We still don't know the full truth. We know the police have been looking into the matter, and now we also have solicitors acting on our behalf, so hopefully we will get there in the end. We need to for James.
'Until now we've been very quiet and even people close to us have been unaware of how James was let down and why he died.
'People need to know though, and we need to know exactly what happened that night.'
Despite emergency attempts to save him, James suffered an irreversible hypoxic brain injury and died after his life-support was withdrawn the following day.
Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice (pictured together) were both born at the Portland Hospital
Victoria Beckham (left) and Liz Hurley (right) both chose the Portland Hospital in Great Portland Street for childbirth
The nursing staff on duty that night have been criticised in the Serious Incident Report - which have now been passed to the Coroner, the Metropolitan Police, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and Medical Advisory Committee for further investigation.
Mrs Dwerryhouse added: 'James had successfully come through an operation to fit a colostomy bag at the hospital, which had been arranged to improve his bowel management and help ensure he was better prepared for moving into a new class at school.
'We cannot believe his life is now over and he will never get to join his class mates.'
James' family are now launching legal action against HCA Healthcare UK, owners of the Portland Hospital, through medical negligence specialists Hudgell Solicitors.
Rosamund Rhodes-Kemp, a clinical negligence solicitor, said: 'This case is that a huge, unforgivable error was made in that James' monitoring equipment was turned off when it should have remained on at all times.
'Had the equipment remained on, no matter what other things were happening that night on the intensive care unit, staff would have been immediately alerted to any danger.
'What is totally unacceptable is the lack of detail and clarity forthcoming so far with regard to the specifics of what happened that night.
'Conflicting accounts have been provided as to what exactly happened when James was found not breathing.
James (pictured) was transferred to the Treehouse Hospice in Ipswich, Suffolk, where he died
'This means it has yet to be made clear whether the alarm was raised immediately, or whether there was a 20 minute delay, which obviously could have had a big impact on James's chances of survival.
'Further serious questions now need asking by the relevant authorities, of all those involved in caring for James at the hospital that night. Answers must be forthcoming.
'This is a tragic case. This family took their son to hospital for a straight forward operation which passed without issue. He then died simply because of failures in monitoring. '
A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: 'On August 28 2016, police were called to a central London hospital following the death of a seven-year-old boy.
'The boy was admitted to a central London hospital on Wednesday August 24.
'The death was passed onto the Westminster Coroner and Westminster CID officers are undertaking inquiries on behalf of the coroner.
'The death is deemed to be non-suspicious. No-one has been arrested.
'A date for the inquest has not yet been set.'
A spokesman for The Portland Hospital for Women & Children said: 'We send our deepest sympathy to the family of James Dwerryhouse.
'We are cooperating with all investigations, and we are unable to comment further until they are completed.'
A 40-year-old Thai man was frogmarched naked to a police truck after he was caught having sex with a cow in broad daylight.
Horrified villagers in Lampang province spotted the man kissing cattle before mounting one at 9.30am today.
He laughed about his bestiality upon his arrest, and said he could not help himself from feeling attracted to the cow as he watched it grazing.
The Thai man is walked to the police truck in handcuffs with a huge grin across his face
Locals in Lampang province chased the man when they saw him having sex with the cow
The man said he could not help but feel attracted to the cow (pictured) when it was grazing
When he was caught in the act on a strip of grass next to a busy road, locals chased the 40-year-old as he fled naked into the bathroom of a nearby farm where he barricaded himself inside.
Officers arrived 30 minutes later and handcuffed him, before hauling him naked into the back of a police truck where he laughed about his depraved act.
The man told police he 'felt the urge' to have sex with the cow and began fondling it before having sex with it.
He said he felt 'strong emotions' and could not stop himself.
Police arrested him after he admitted having sex with the cow and was taken to the station in a pair of blue shorts given to him by villagers.
The smiling man was given a pair of shorts to wear by locals before he was taken away
Farmer Tong Kai Charoonprasitporn, 65, who owns the animal, said: 'I saw the man snogging and groping and having sex with my cow.
'We chased him but he did not stop. We called the police and found him hiding in the bathroom of the house.'
Police, who are questioning the man, said he may have been drunk at the time and they are also assessing his mental health.
The brown cow was unhurt and carried on grazing afterwards.
Lawsuit was thrown out of court and her appeal to now been rejected by a judge
Trio were being sued for $250,000 under Racial Discrimination Act's section 18C
Incident came after she told one of them to leave an indigenous-only classroom
Cindy Prior claimed three students racially abused her on Facebook in 2013
An aboriginal woman who claimed she was racially abused on Facebook by three university students has lost her appeal to restart legal proceedings against them.
Cindy Prior, an administration officer at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), filed a $250,000 lawsuit against Alex Wood, Calum Thwaites and Jackson Powell after they allegedly posted racist comments about her online in 2013.
She claimed she had been racially abused by the trio after asking Mr Wood to leave an indigenous-only computer room at the university in Brisbane.
Her lawsuit under the Racial Discrimination Act's controversial section 18C was thrown out of court last year and a judge has now ruled that she cannot appeal.
Cindy Prior (left) has had an appeal to restart legal proceedings against three students (Callum Thwaites, right) she claimed racially abused her thrown out of court again
Ms Prior's lawsuit was originally dismissed by the Federal Court after a judge ruled she did not reasonable prospects of bringing a successful case against the three men.
Justice John Dowsett has now dismissed the case for a second time, saying the students had 'suffered more from legal proceedings than any other young person would have suffered in a lifetime'.
The QUT worker, who has been on stress leave since filing the lawsuit, has been ordered to pay more than $200,000 in costs and the legal fees of the three men, The Australian reported.
Ms Prior had argued she was unable to work face-to-face with white people following the incident in a computer lab at the QUT in 2013.
Ms Prior claimed she had been racially abused by the trio after asking Mr Wood to leave an indigenous-only computer room at the Queensland University of Technology (pictured)
Mr Wood allegedly made a series of Facebook posts after Ms Prior told him to leave the room, which was reserved for indigenous people only.
'Just got kicked out of the unsigned indigenous computer room. QUT stopping segregation with segregation,' he wrote.
The post attracted a number of responses, including one from Mr Powell who wrote: 'I wonder where the white supremacist computer lab is.'
Mr Thwaites is alleged to have written 'ITT N***ers', however he denied being responsible for the post.
Justice Dowsett's judgement appeared to criticise 18C as he said Mr Powell's comments were clearly ironic.
'To suggest that humour or irony cannot blunt the most outrageous of statements overlooks the history of such devices, and the extremes to which comedians, authors and speakers commonly use them today,' the judge said.
'No reasonably intelligent person would have understood Mr Powell's posts as other than humour or irony.'
The case has been a rallying point for opponents of 18C, which makes it unlawful to offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate another person or a group of people.
General Sir Adrian Bradshaw said Article 5 of the Nato charter in which an attack on one member state is an attack on all could apply to unconventional forms of warfare
Russias cyber hacking, meddling in elections and fake news could be deemed acts of aggression by Nato, Britains most senior officer in the alliance warned yesterday.
General Sir Adrian Bradshaw said Article 5 of the Nato charter in which an attack on one member state is an attack on all could apply to unconventional forms of warfare.
His comments signal a possible expansion of the interpretation of the mutual defence guarantee - which means all states in the alliance could decide to strike back.
The deputy supreme allied commander, who is a former director of UK Special Forces, said Nato must step up its defences to deal with the tactics.
He said the West needed a grand strategy to counter such threats.
Asked if disinformation and meddling, such as Russias alleged interference in the US election came under Article 5, he said: Article 5 is when its declared to be Article 5.
It is a political decision, but no, it is not out of the question thatblatant aggression, in a domain other than conventional warfare might be deemed to be Article 5.
Asked if disinformation and meddling, such as Russias alleged interference in the US election to help Donald Trump (right) came under Article 5, he said: Article 5 is when its declared to be Article 5.' Pictured left: Vladimir Putin in Berlin on October 19
General Bradshaw, who is due to step down from his post this month, helped to oversee a transformation within Nato which saw the alliance focus its efforts to eastern Europe.
In the coming weeks some 800 UK troops will deploy to Estonia as part of the biggest build-up on Russias borders since the Cold War.
The build-up is designed to send a message to Moscow. General Bradshaw told the Times: Do not mess with Nato.
You set foot in one of these countries youre taking on Nato with all that that implies so woe betide a nation that does that.
He said failure to respond to ambiguous warfare would increase the risk of military conflict.
He said: This is not just about military deterrence. What we require is hybrid deterrence.
Sir Adrian, pictured here meeting King Philippe of Belgium at the Royal Palace in Brussels, said failure to respond to ambiguous warfare would increase the risk of conflict
We require the ability to defend our vital assets from aggression in any area.
He warned President Vladimir Putin could seek to replicate the unconventional tactics used to destabilise Crimea before its annexation by Moscow in 2014.
The danger, he said, was that the Kremlin would create a situation where it believed it could use its military power to finalise the deal.
While the risk of a slide into military confrontation between Nato and Russia was small, the consequences if it happened would be catastrophic.
The concern is that by a combination of means Russia gets themselves in a position where they see an opportunity to employ the military arm of power and that could be incredibly dangerous, Gen Bradshaw told the BBC.
The danger, Sir Adrian said, was that the Kremlin (seen in this file picture) would create a situation where it believed it could use its military power to finalise the deal
We have seen it in Crimea - a combination of unconventional military and non-military means including cyber warfare, political agitation, economic leverage - where military forces then closed in to finalise the deal.
The risk of a slide into a military confrontation with Russia is small - very small - but because the consequences would be catastrophic we have absolutely got to deal with that risk.
Gen Bradshaws comments echo a recent warning by Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon that Russia was weaponising misinformation in a sustained campaign of destabilisation against the West.
In a speech last month, he accused Moscow of using cyber weaponry to disrupt critical infrastructure and disable democratic machinery in a series of attacks on western countries.
The UK's population will pass the 70 million mark in less than a decade, according to official projections.
Experts say the landmark will be reached by 2026 as the number of people living in the country increases 'steadily'.
Natural growth - more births than deaths - and net migration helped push the estimated UK population to a record 65.1 million in 2015, a rise of more than half a million on the previous year.
Experts added the growth in the size of the population is partly because it is ageing - with one in five expected to be aged 65 or over by the middle of the next decade.
The graphic above shows how net international migration and births minus deaths have steadily increased over time, contributing to the rise in the UK's population
Experts say the UK's population will pass 70 million by 2026 as the number of people living in the country increases 'steadily'
More births than deaths and net migration have helped push the estimated UK population to a record 65.1 million in 2015, a rise of more than half a million on the previous year
Number of UK inhabitants aged 65 growing At least one in four of the UK population will be over 65 in under 30 years, research by the ONS has revealed. This means that by 2045, 24.6 per cent of the population will be aged 65 and over. In 2015, there were more than 11.6 million people aged 65 and over and 1.5 million people aged 85. According to ONS, The number of males aged 85 and over has increased by 54 per cent since mid-2005, compared to a 21 per cent increase for females. It has been concluded that male mortality rates have improved due to improving treatments for circulatory illnesses and a reduction in smoking. However, there are still more females than males in the UK population. In mid-2015, there were 32.1 million males (49.3 per cent) and 33.0 million females (50.7 per cent). ONS adds that the ratio of females to males has decreased slightly over the ten year period from mid-2005, as the male population has grown faster than the female population. There are now 103 women for every 100 men compared to 105 women per 100 men in mid-2005. Advertisement
In an overview of the latest trends published on Friday, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said growth slowed during the 1970s after the 'baby boom' of the previous decade, before picking up again in the late 1980s.
Recent uplifts have 'generally coincided with an increase in the number of countries holding EU membership', the report added.
bitants are aged at least 65, with the percentage in this age group rising from 14.1 per cent in 1975 to 17.8 per cent in 2015.
Over the same period, the proportion of children aged 15 and younger has declined from over 24 per cent to less than 20 per cent.
It is forecast that a fifth (20.2 per cent) of the population will be aged 65 and over in 2025, rising to a quarter (24.6 per cent) in 2045.
Natural change has had an impact on the number of occupants. Since 1955, the number of births in the UK has been higher than the number of deaths in every year bar 1976.
The rise in the population since the 1990s has also been attributed to the growth of net migration - the number of people arriving to live in the UK minus the number departing.
Statisticians said the direct effect of net migration increased the population by more than 250,000 people per year on average from 2004 to 2015. This is about 50,000 more people per year than natural change for the same period.
A growing proportion of UK inhabitants are aged at least 65, with the percentage in this age group rising from 14.1 per cent in 1975 to 17.8 per cent in 2015
Current and past international migration also has 'indirect effects' on the size of the population as it changes the numbers of births and deaths in the UK, the report added.
Immigration has been higher than emigration since the early 1990s. In 2015, the inflow was 631,500 - more than double emigration at 299,200.
Top 10 most populated cities in the UK According to the 2015 mid-population estimates by ONS, below are the top 10 most populated cities in the UK. 1) London: 8,673,713 2) Birmingham: 1,111,307 3) Leeds: 774,060 4) Sheffield: 569,737 5) Bradford: 531,176 6) Manchester: 530,292 7) Liverpool: 478,580 8) Bristol: 449,328 9) Newcastle: 292,883 10) Sunderland: 277,150 Advertisement
The report said rises in immigration 'have tended to coincide with the expansion of the EU, allowing more people to freely migrate to the UK'.
In 2004, eight central and eastern European countries - Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia - joined the bloc, while Romania and Bulgaria became member states in 2007.
The UK is currently estimated to have the third largest population out of the EU member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
But it is projected the surpass Germany and France to become the most populous of the 32 nations at 77 million by 2050.
On the consequences of the population changes, the ONS report said: 'While living longer is a cause for celebration, an ageing population may result in fewer people of working age to support those of pension age.
'While a larger population increases the size and productive capacity of the workforce, it also increases pressure and demand for services such as education, healthcare and housing.'
Alistair Currie, head of campaigns at sustainability charity Population Matters, said: '70 million isn't just a number. More people puts a strain on all our natural and social resources that simply isn't sustainable. The patches we are using to deal with the pressures of population will simply make things worse in the longer term. Putting on more buses makes more emissions.
'Using young people to support more older people just means even more old people down the line. Our numbers underlie so many of our biggest challenges and what is needed today is a grown-up discussion on population and a long-overdue strategic approach instead of short term solutions.'
Robert Roy Farmer may have to register as a sex offender after he killed 21 cats in 2015
A 25-year-old man who killed 21 cats may have to register as a sex offender because he also sexually abused them.
Robert Roy Farmer was arrested on October 8, 2015, while he was asleep in his car.
San Jose police also found a dead orange tabby cat in the vehicle along with other cat collars.
Last year, Farmer pleaded guilty to 21 counts of felony animal cruelty and one misdemeanor battery and being under the influence, according to Mercury News.
On Thursday, Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Sharon A Chatman said she wanted to hear from a psychologist before deciding whether or not he should register as a sex offender for his crimes.
Chatman said she wanted to hear from the animal control officer and the psychologist 'to make sure I have all the information to make a reasoned and fair decision'.
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Last year, Farmer (pictured in court) pleaded guilty to 21 counts of felony animal cruelty. On Thursday, Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Sharon A Chatman, said she wanted to hear from a psychologist before deciding whether or not he should register as a sex offender
Farmer was arrested in October 2015, while he was asleep in his car. San Jose police found a dead orange tabby cat in the vehicle along with other cat collars. Surveillance video (pictured) captured him chasing and picking up one cat named Go-Go
Deputy District Attorney Alexandra Ellis said he 'would have the same consequences as anyone required to register as a sex offender' once he is eventually freed from prison.
A San Jose Animal Care and Services necropsy report determined the orange female tabby cat found dead in his car of blunt force trauma had dilated genitals.
The report also showed that a DNA match between Farmer and the cat was found under its claws. DNA tests linked Farmer to all 21 cats that were killed.
Farmer's attorney, Wesley Schroeder, said in an email to NBC that the '(tuolidine blue) test designed to highlight abrasions or subtle trauma from sexual assault failed to show any evidence of even the most minuscule trauma.'
Investigators said Farmer rounded up the cats, that he sometimes mutilated and abused, from Cambrian Park over a two-month period.
Surveillance video captured Farmer in the act as he chased and picked up one cat named Go-Go, leading police to him, according to ABC 7.
Go-Go's (pictured) owner, Miriam Petrova said they never found her 17-year-old cat's body. Only four of the animal's bodies have been recovered
Residents (pictured) have rallied to urge the judge to sentence Farmer to life in prison, asking supporters to sign onto 'Justice for our CATZ.' So far, the group has 232 members
'Farmer just took our sense of safety because he took it from our front yard,' Miriam Petrova told NBC in 2016.
Petrova's 17-year-old cat Go-Go, was one of Farmer's first victims. 'We never found Go-Go's body,' she said. Only four of the animal's bodies have been recovered.
Residents have rallied to urge the judge to sentence Farmer to life in prison, asking supporters to sign onto 'Justice for our CATZ.' So far, the group has 232 members.
Farmer, who has been in custody at the Elmwood Correctional Facility in Milpitas since October 2015, is due back in court on April 7 for the hearing.
He is facing up to 16 years in prison after admitting his crimes.
The father of Navy Seal William Owens, the first active service member to die in combat under the Trump administration, has renewed his criticism of the President.
Bill Owens told DailyMail.com that he was not backing down on his criticism of the president over his sons death despite the SEALs widow, Carryn, being a guest of the President as he addressed a Joint Session of Congress on Tuesday.
His son William Ryan Owens, 36, a member of the elite SEAL Team 6, was killed in a firefight as the special operations force carried out a raid on an al Qaeda target in Yemen on January 27.
It was the first time combat troops have been deployed on the ground in Yemen, the first operation ordered by the president, and Owens was the first combat casualty of his presidency.
The father of Navy Seal William Owens, the first active service member to die in combat under the Trump administration, has renewed his criticism of the President
A tribute to her husband provided the emotional high point of the address, as the political divide ended for a lengthy standing ovation in the special operators memory. At one point, Ivanka put a hand on her back to comfort her
On their feet: President Trump turned to applaud Carryn Owens after he paid tribute to fallen SEAL hero William 'Ryan' Owens
Donald Trump was present at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, as Owens body was repatriated, but the SEALs father later revealed he had declined to shake Trumps hand.
Now Owens, 68, tells DailyMail.com that he is not changing his mind, despite his daughter-in-laws acceptance of the presidents condolences and her decision to attend the speech.
A tribute to her husband provided the emotional high point of the address, as the political divide ended for a lengthy standing ovation in the special operators memory. At one point, Ivanka put a hand on her back to comfort her.
'We are blessed to be joined tonight by Carryn Owens, the widow of U.S. Navy Special Operator, Senior Chief William "Ryan" Owens. Ryan died as he lived: a warrior, and a hero battling against terrorism and securing our nation,' Trump said.
'I just spoke to our great Gen. Mattis, just now, who reconfirmed that, and I quote, "Ryan was a part of a highly successful raid that generated large amounts of vital intelligence that will lead to many more victories in the future against our enemies.
'Ryan's legacy is etched into eternity. Thank you,' he concluded.
After the clapping subsided, Trump added: 'Ryan is looking down right now, you know that, and he's very happy, because I think he just broke a record,' referring to the length of applause.
But at his home in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, Owens senior, a military veteran and retired police detective, said he was not changing his mind on Trump - and that he had not voted for him.
I didnt want to meet him, the Blue Star father said.
I didnt like the way he conducted his campaign [to be elected President] and I didnt vote for him.
He hinted that he felt the raid had been motivated by Trumps own political agenda.
You only have to look at the timeline of Yemen to work it out, he said.
And asked if he meant his son might have been sacrificed by the new President to gain early political leverage, he said: I would never comment on that.
He added: But there are three investigations going on and we shall wait and see.
I didnt want to meet him, the military veteran and retired police detective, speaking from his home in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida (pictured) said. I didnt like the way he conducted his campaign [to be elected President] and I didnt vote for him'
He hinted that he felt the raid had been motivated by Trumps own political agenda. You only have to look at the timeline of Yemen to work it out, he said. Pictured, Owens senior pointing out his son's medals and honors hanging in his office
According to White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer, several investigations of the Yemen raid will be carried out by the Department of Defense. The three will center on the circumstances of Owens' death, civilian deaths and the loss of a V-22 Osprey aircraft during the mission.
Owens senior had first made his criticism of the president before the Congressional address, calling the raid stupid and revealed his dissatisfaction at the military operation in which his son died.
He told the Miami Herald: Why at this time did there have to be this stupid mission when it wasnt even barely a week into his administration? Why?
For two years prior, there were no boots on the ground in Yemen, everything was missiles and drones, because there was not a target worth one American life. Now, all of a sudden we had to make this grand display?
Chief Special Warfare Officer Owens, 36, was killed with around 16 civilians and 14 militants in the Yemen assault, which the Pentagon said was staged in a bid to obtain information on potential terrorist attacks against the U.S. and its allies.
Planning for the operation had begun under the Obama leadership and carried out in the first week of Trump entering the Oval Office, it was reported.
But that, too, is in dispute. Colin Kahl, deputy assistant to Obama and national security adviser to Joe Biden, told PBS that specific raids were not authorized by the former president, but that the Pentagon proposed allowing 'special operations forces to more actively engage in direct raids to go after compounds.'
Kahl said details about specific raids, including particular targets, dates or times, were not discussed. He also said decisions like this were deferred to the Trump administration so it could effectively run its own process.
However, it has been reported that Trump inevitably gave the go-ahead on the raid during a dinner party with Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and General Joseph F. Dunford Jr.
April the pregnant giraffe has become grumpy and restless while she prepares to give birth at 'any moment', said officials at the upstate New York zoo.
Zookeepers at Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville said the 15-year-old giraffe's behavior has changed over the past few days which is a sign she will soon go into labor.
April became a worldwide sensation last week when YouTube briefly pulled the 24-hour livestream which had begun on February 10, for 'nudity and sexual content', leaving millions of viewers outraged.
The live footage was later restored on February 24 and has since drawn in more than 15 million views from across the world.
April the pregnant giraffe has become a worldwide sensation after Animal Adventure Park announced she was giving birth in a global livestream last week
The long-legged viral star has been moving in 'different patterns' and has not been as 'lovey' as usual, the zoo said in a Facebook update.
Keepers were also able to 'get hands on the belly and make 'contact with baby' on Thursday, despite April appearing to be 'on edge'.
The animal has also displayed 'increased tail raising and holding,' her vet said.
Tens of thousands of people have been checking in through the giraffe cam, which streams footage from April's stall around the clock.
The news of the animal's pregnancy has become so famous that fans have created memes to capture their impatience.
Zookeepers said the giraffe's behavior has changed over the past few days and April seems to be 'on edge' and not as 'lovey' as usual
In videos posted on the park's Facebook page this week, zookeeper Jordan Patch said that he's been busy tending to his 200-plus other animals and that the flood of emails has become 'so overbearing' that he's asking people to stop sending them.
There's no doubt that the pregnant animal has developed a large following as fans have generously donated to the April's GoFundMe fundraising page and apparel is available for viewers to purchase.
Aprilthegiraffe.com includes a link for buying merchandise from baby clothing to adult-sized hoodies imprinted with a giraffe's head and '#Aprils View Crew.'
Giraffes can be in labor anywhere from hours to a full day. This will be April's fourth calf, but the Harpursville zoo's first giraffe birth.
The zoo plans to hold an online naming competition for the baby after it's born.
The grandparents of a boy feared drowned in a river by his own mother warned the authorities of the 'imminent risk' she posed to her children, they have claimed.
The 27-year-old mother, who cannot be named for legal reasons, allegedly tried to drown her two sons, aged nine and five, in the Murray River on Thursday and has been charged with attempted murder.
The younger boy is still missing and was last seen floating downriver face-down, a court has heard. Police will continue their search for him on Saturday morning.
The older son is in hospital recovering from serious dog bites he sustained as he fled the scene near Moama, southern New South Wales.
The boys' grandparents claim they warned that the mother could endanger the children after she was released from jail last month, but claimed officials 'failed to act'.
The grandparents' lawyer Dale Brooks also claimed that the mother was addicted to methamphetamine.
The mother is pictured with her two boys, aged nine and five, who were involved in the horror incident on Thursday
The search for a missing five-year-old boy resumed on Saturday in Moama, in southern NSW
A five-year-old boy is still missing and was last seen floating downriver face-down (search for boy pictured)
The children's mother (pictured) has been charged with attempted murder after the incident at Moama on the Murray River on Thursday night
A nine-year-old boy is in hospital with serious dog bite injuries as police search for his five-year-old brother who is feared drowned in the Murray River (search for boy pictured)
The owner of the dog involved in the incident said her four-year-old pit bull (pictured) was likely reacting to the drama happening at the banks of the river
A statement released by the grandparents' lawyers said: 'The grandparents have had full-time care of the children for close to 18 months.
'We had made considerable representations to Family and Children Services and the Department of Correctional Services about the imminent risk posed to the little boys with their mothers release from prison.
'Both departments failed to act and consequently we now have a grieving family.'
It is not known what the mother was in prison for, but a court heard that she was on bail for a serious offence when she allegedly tried to kill her children.
A court heard on Friday evening that the mother allegedly told friends the night before the horrific incident that she 'had to drown my babies'.
The mother, who lives near Deniliquin in southern New South Wales, has been charged with the attempted murder of her nine-year-old son.
She allegedly took her nine-year-old son into the river in Moama, about 75km south of Deniliquin, and held his head under the surface as her younger boy, five, screamed from the water's edge, Bendigo Magistrates Court heard.
The nine-year-old was able to free himself and escaped, only to be mauled by a pitbull, called Buddy, that also went on to attack the mother, 9 News reported.
A nine-year-old boy is in hospital with serious dog bite injuries as police search for his five-year-old brother who is feared drowned in a river (search for boy pictured)
Moama is a town in the Riverina district of southern New South Wales, close to the Victorian boarder
Victorian Emergency services personnel search the Murray River at Moama
The court was told that she then took her five-year-old boy into the water.
Police have suspended the search for the younger boy, who is feared dead, but will continue in the morning.
It has also emerged that the mother was on bail, having been released from prison just a month ago.
The mother was arrested after she handed herself in at Echuca Police Station in Victoria on Thursday night.
The court heard that the mother - who was extradited to New South Wales to face charges - told friends on Wednesday that she 'had to drown my babies'.
The court was also told that she was on bail for serious offences when the incident took place. It is not clear what those offences are. She did not apply for bail during the brief court appearance.
Police said the mother took her sons to a property near Moama at about 4pm on Thursday, telling them they were to go fishing in the Murray River.
Moama police were called to the scene and found the boy with dog bite injuries before discovering his younger brother was missing.
Divers recovered a small T-shirt from the river during the search.
New South Wales emergency services personnel search the Murray River
Police said the mother took her sons to a property near Moama at about 4pm on Thursday where they were fishing in the Murray River (search for boy pictured)
Superintendent Paul Condon said police spoke with the older boy on Thursday night after he was taken to a Moama home with the serious bites.
He was transferred to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne where he required surgery. He remains in a serious condition.
'It is very unclear at this stage what happened at the riverbank,' Superintendent Condon said.
'The dog has been involved. The dog has bitten the 27-year-old mother and the nine-year-old. The actual circumstances are unknown.'
Superintendent Condon on Friday said the mother had been interviewed by Deniliquin detectives.
Superintendent Condon said the woman was released from jail about a month ago.
The attempted murder charge relates to the woman's nine-year-old son.
Asked if the mother could subsequently be charged with murder too, Superintendent Condon said: 'I don't know. It depends what the result of the search is.'
Supt Condon said there'd been 'a couple of incidents' involving the family since the mother had been released from jail.
The two boys have different fathers and police are trying to locate the men.
A woman has been arrested as police resume a search for a five-year-old boy missing in the Murray River
Police divers were called in on Friday morning to search for the five-year-old boy (search for boy pictured)
Some 30 searchers are involved from the Rural Fire Service, the SES, and Victorian and NSW police
The mother knew the owners of the property at Moama, where the nine-year-old was found with serious injuries on Thursday evening, Superintendent Condon said.
Some 30 searchers are involved from the Rural Fire Service, the SES, and Victorian and NSW police.
'We are starting from the rear of the premises where the boy was found with the dog and we are trying to expand obviously down river, following the current, but also upstream on the banks,' Superintendent Condon said.
Superintendent Condon said the 'devastating' incident would have a widespread impact.
'I think it will rock the community of Australia,' he said.
No other parties were being sought in relation to this matter, Superintendent Condon said.
'The dog belongs to a local family and police and emergency services were contacted by a local resident,' Superintendent Condon said.
'Contrary to rumours, the dog was not set on the child. This has been an extremely traumatic scene for all the first responders involved and welfare support is being offered.'
The owner of the dog involved in the incident, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Riverine Herald her four-year-old pit bull was likely reacting to the drama happening at the banks of the river.
She believed the dog may have actually been trying to pull the nine-year-old to safety.
A quick-thinking babysitter hid herself and her four-year-old niece during a burglary when an intruder kicked down her door and ransacked the home.
Savannah Jones, 14, was watching her niece Zoyee on Tuesday at their Montclair, California home, when she heard a knock at the front door.
She immediately became suspicious, and the two hid in a bathroom as Savannah called her mother for help and the man came inside by kicking her front door in.
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Savannah Jones, 14, was watching her niece Zoyee on Tuesday at their Montclair, California home, when she heard a knock at the front door
She immediately became suspicious, and hid with Zoyee, pictured, in a bathroom and called her mother for help
'I was very scared not so much for myself, but just Zoyee,' Savannah told KTLA.
'I could hear him going through my mom's room, and he came by the door where we were hiding. I was just hoping he wouldn't know that we were in there.'
She said after peeking through the peep-hole, she noticed the bald man standing outside and the door handle jiggling.
He began to knock on the door aggressively and then kicked down the door and rummaged through at least two rooms.
As Savannah tried to keep her young niece quiet, she was texting her mother asking for help, who was stuck in traffic
She hid Zoyee behind the toilet and said the man walked directly past where they were hiding
As Savannah tried to keep her young niece quiet, she was texting her mother, who was stuck in traffic, asking for help. She told her that she was worried that the man would take Zoyee or hurt them.
She told her mother Maria Muratalla that she was worried the man would hear her and asked her to come home. Maria then called her neighbor, who telephoned police and rushed over to the girl's house.
'She was very smart and brave,' Yesenia Barragan, Savannah's sister, said. 'She did everything right.'
She told her mother Maria Muratalla that she was worried the man would hear her and asked her to come home. Maria then called her neighbor, who telephoned police and rushed over to the girl's house
Unfortunately the man escaped before authorities arrived. Police had K-9 units explore the area but haven't located the burglar yet.
Police are offering a $1,000 reward for any information on his identity or whereabouts. He is described as a black man aged 20-30 years, bald and was wearing a dark colored sweatshirt and jeans.
Anyone with information about the crime can call Montclair Police Department at 909-621-4771
Australian tourists and expats have been warned about the growing terror threat in southeast Asia.
ASIO director-general Duncan Lewis issued the dire warning on Friday, citing the increasing influence of ISIL in the region, ABC News reported.
'One of the greatest terrorist threats to Australians is in southeast Asia,' Mr Lewis said.
The growing influence of ISIL in southeast Asia is posing a threat to Australian tourists and expats
ASIO director-general Duncan Lewis has warned of a growing terrorist threat in southeast Asia
Australians headed for a holiday in southeast Asia have been warned the region is 'one of the greatest terrorist threats to Australians' (stock image)
'This can be attributed to several factors including the rise of ISIL's influence in the region, as well as the fact a number of Australians live, work and holiday there.'
During a security briefing, Mr Lewis also revealed 64 Australians had been confirmed killed fighting in the Middle East since 2012, with 87 per cent aged under 30.
The youngest was 18.
Other figures released on Friday revealed 70 children of Australian fighters had either been taken to Iraq and Syria by their family or were born in those countries.
The number of Australians living, working and holidaying in southeast Asia makes the region the nation's greatest terrorist threat (stock image)
More than 100 Australian terrorists fighting in Syria and Iraq. Pictured is Senior Islamic State terrorist, Australian Neil Prakash
An estimated 200 Australians have gone to fight in Syria and Iraq and about 100 are still fighting in those countries.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said he was aware of the threat posed by the foreign fighters returning home, the Herald Sun reported.
'We have that issue of foreign fighters very well in hand. We update and review our laws all the time,' Mr Turnbull said.
New South Wales has introduced classes for high school students advising them how to detect child brides and arranged marriages among classmates.
The government-funded curriculum includes 14 hour-long sessions on forced marriage for high school students in Year 9, 10 and 11, reported the Daily Telegraph.
The sessions feature a list of possible warning signs in fellow students including feeling scared or apprehensive about upcoming family holidays, or not being allowed out without a family chaperone.
The New South Wales government has introduced classes for high school students advising them how to detect child brides and arranged marriages among classmates (stock image)
They also include advice on what to do if students are taken to an airport against their will.
A 'safety plan' also shows students how to communicate without their parents knowing, where they can seek help if they want to leave home and tips on what to do if they are followed.
Students will also be tested on their general knowledge of arranged marriage.
If a student does seek help from a teacher, the teachers are advised not to let any parents be present at the meeting with the student.
According to Australian law, the crime of forced marriage can apply to legally recognised marriages, as well as cultural or religious ceremonies and registered relationships marriages that occur in Australia (including where a person was brought to Australia to get married), as well as where a person is taken overseas to get married.
The government-funded curriculum includes 14 hour-long sessions on forced marriage for high school students in Year 9, 10 and 11 (stock image)
It can also apply to the conduct of any person involved in bringing about the forced marriage, including family members, friends, wedding planners and marriage celebrants.
The New South Wales government reportedly helped 18 girls escape forced marriages in the last financial year - three times more than in 2015.
For further advice, visit My Blue Sky, call (02) 9514 8115 or text 0481 070 844. If someone is at risk of forced marriage, you can call the Australian Federal Police on 131 237. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
President Donald Trump went after Democrats again this morning for the slow pace of his cabinet confirmations.
The president said on Twitter, 'It is so pathetic that the Dems have still not approved my full Cabinet.'
Of the 24 people Trump has said will hold the rank of cabinet member, 20 are in place. Four remain under consideration in the Senate.
The president's slap at the opposing party had odd timing, as half of his remaining eight nominees were sworn into office this week.
President Donald Trump went after Democrats again this morning for the slow pace of his cabinet confirmations
Wilbur Ross became the commerce secretary on Monday. Ryan Zinke took on the title of interior secretary on Wednesday. Rick Perry and Ben Carson were sworn in as the secretaries of Energy and Housing and Urban Development, respectively, last night.
The four cabinet-level nominees the Senate has not confirmed are Alexander Acosta to Labor, Sonny Perdue to Agriculture, Dan Coats as director of national intelligence and Robert Lighthizer for the role of United States Trade Representative.
Democrats had intentionally held up many of Trump's cabinet picks such as Jeff Sessions, now accused as attorney general of 'misleading' the Senate's Judiciary Committee during his confirmation hearing.
They tried to block billionaires like Ross and Steve Mnuchin, since approved for Treasury, from taking office.
Opponents of Trump's first nominee for Labor, Andy Puzder, a fast food executive, successfully blocked his confirmation. Puzder withdrew his name on Feb. 15 after allegations of spousal abuse of his ex-wife surfaced.
Trump named Acosta his replacement pick a day later.
Acosta met this week with the head of the committee that will oversee his confirmation process and the leader of the Senate, Mitch McConnell.
A date for his hearing has not yet been set.
Perdue, Trump's choice for Agriculture, is still awaiting a hearing, as well. But he was the last of Trump's cabinet members to be announced, aside from Acosta.
The former governor of Georgia was not nominated to the post until Jan. 18, two days before the Republican president's inauguration.
The president's slap at the opposing party had odd timing, as half of his remaining eight nominees were sworn into office this week, including Ben Carson, who now heads Housing. He's seen signing his documentation last night
That leaves Coats and Lighthizer.
Coats, the senator Trump tapped for director of national intelligence, did not have his confirmation hearing until this week, despite being nominating more than six week ago on January 7.
Despite the dramatics involving Russian-engineered hacking that was meant to disrupt the presidential election and Trump's vow to root out leakers in the intelligence community, Coats' nomination remained on hold until last week.
A retired Indiana lawmaker, Coats hit a roadblock because he opted not to seek reelection in 2016. He left the Senate on Jan. 3.
With his title went the security clearance he held as a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence committees.
Coats appeared before the Senate Intel committee on Tuesday and still has to answer written questions from legislators before they take a vote.
Democrats on the committee could draw out his confirmation process further by piling up paperwork for him and asking for delays but none have indicated they intend to do so.
The four cabinet-level nominees the Senate has not confirmed are Alexander Acosta to Labor, Sonny Perdue to Agriculture (left) Dan Coats as director of national intelligence and Robert Lighthizer for the role of United States Trade Representative (right)
Trump has shared his frustration with the process, opining at the news conference where he formally announced that he was nominating Acosta that Coats, 'one of the most respected men of the Senate, he cant get approved.'
'How do you not approve him? Hes been a colleague, highly respected -- brilliant guy, great guy, everybody knows it -- but waiting for approval,' the president said.
Congress in 2004 passed legislation that was meant to prevent a vacancy in such a sensitive position.
It encourages a 'president-elect to submit, for security clearance, potential nominees to high-level national security positions as soon as possible after the election,' the Congressional Research Service says.
The point of the advisory was to 'reduce the elapsed time between a new president's inauguration and the appointment of his or her national security team.'
Trump waited nearly two months after the election to name a director of national intelligence, contributing to the hold up.
Lighthizer's nomination has also faced complications.
Appointed by Trump on Jan. 3, he met with the head senator on the committee a week later. His hearing has not been scheduled yet, either.
BloombergMarkets has reported that lobbying Lighthizer did on behalf of Brazil in 1985 is tangling his confirmation up.
Congress passed a rule barring anyone who represented a foreign government from becoming USTR in 1995.
White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer, a former USTR spokesman, has argued that the rule, passed a decade after the work, does not apply in this instance.
'Over 30 years ago, he briefly provided counsel to a Brazilian client in U.S. antidumping and countervailing duty proceedings -- in an effort to reach an amicable settlement with concerned U.S. producers. It would be absurd that such an action should prevent him from serving as USTR,' Spicer said.
Congress could also vote to make an exception if lawmakers determine that it does affect Lighthizer much the way it passed legislation allowing James Mattis to serve as Secretary of Defense even though he didn't meet a key requirement.
Senate Democrats are making that process take longer by insisting that Republicans attach the Miners Protection Act, which made it through the committee 18-2 last session, to a vote on Lighthizer's waiver.
Women should earn less than men because they are 'weaker', 'smaller' and 'less intelligent', an MEP has told the European Parliament.
Janusz Korwin-Mikke, 74, made the staggering remark on Wednesday - and then followed it today saying the idea that women are as intelligent as men 'must be destroyed'.
The Polish MEP, who has previously been sanctioned for making racist comments and remarks about the Holocaust, could face a heavy fine or suspension after an investigation was launched.
Today he said in Warsaw that it is a '20th-century stereotype that women have the same intellectual potential as men', and that the stereotype 'must be destroyed because it is not true'.
He told fellow MEPs: 'Of course women must earn less than men, because they are weaker, they are smaller, they are less intelligent, they must earn less, that's all.'
The bowtie-wearing, moustachioed Korwin-Mikke made the comments after interrupting a speech by a female Spanish MEP Iratxe Garcia-Perez.
He first made remarks about women in sport and added: 'Do you know how many women are in the first 100 of chess players. I tell you: no one.'
Polish MEP Janusz Korwin-Mikke said women should earn less than men because they are 'weaker', 'smaller' and 'less intelligent'
After hearing the remark following complaints from other European Parliamentarians, chief Antonio Tajani said he had launched an inquiry over 'sexist remarks" that could result in a fine or suspension.
'Mr Tajani was immediately alerted to the incident by several MEPs,' the parliament said in a statement late Thursday, adding that he had watched footage of the incident.
Garcia Perez then shot back: 'According to what you are saying... I would not have the right to be here.
'I think I have to defend European women to men like you.'
Korwin-Mikke has previously courted controversy by claiming Nazi leader Adolf Hitler was 'not aware of the extermination of the Jews', calling refugees 'human garbage' and using a racist term to refer to black Americans.
Embattled NRL star Martin Kennedy, 28, has been arrested over his alleged involvement in an illegal international animal smuggling ring.
The suspended NRL player was arrested on Friday afternoon after police allegedly seized a number of snakes and other wildlife at his Bondi home, the Daily Telegraph report.
A federal police investigation into the trafficking of reptiles overseas, a multi-billion dollar industry, culminated in Kennedy's arrest on Friday.
Embattled NRL star Martin Kennedy, 28, has been arrested over his alleged involvement in an illegal international animal smuggling ring
Police allege the former Sydney Roosters and Broncos player was responsible for 16 packages sent from Thailand to Australia containing more than 200 animals.
Animals in the alleged smuggling ring included Chinese soft-shell turtles, alligator snapping turtles, snakehead fish, sugar gliders, veiled chameleons and freshwater stingrays, the Daily Telegraph report.
Six packages containing more than 40 native Australian shingleback lizards, bound for Sweden were also intercepted.
Kennedy was charged with 40 offences, 37 counts falling under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, and three offences under the Biosecurity Act 2015.
Kennedy was charged with 40 offences, 37 counts falling under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, and three offences under the Biosecurity Act 2015
A shingleback lizard, like that seized in the Friday raid, can be sold for up to $400 in Australia and even more if sold in overseas markets
The embattled NRL player faces a maximum of 10 years behind bars for his alleged offences.
Mr Kennedy's arrest comes after he was suspended from playing NRL in 2016.
He was suspended for two years and nine months for breaching the NRL's anti-doping policy.
Kennedy was found guilty of ordering performance-enhancing drugs during the 2012 season.
The embattled NRL player faces a maximum of 10 years behind bars for his alleged offences
He was later found guilty of trying to delete evidence from his phone and was suspended for a further nine months.
Mr Kennedy is just one of a number of people caught up in the alleged wildlife smuggling ring, where rare reptiles are caught in the outback and sold on the international black market, according to the Daily Telegraph.
A shingleback lizard, like that seized in the Friday raid, can be sold for up to $400 in Australia and even more if sold in overseas markets, a wildlife specialist told the Daily Telegraph.
The specialist said the wildlife racket endangered the animals and put them at great risk of injury and even death.
'(Smugglers) often just take a risk that the animals will survive the flights and they are heavily packaged,' he told the Daily Telegraph.
Federal police also seized large amounts of cash and evidence during their Friday raids.
Australian Federal Police crime operations manager Chris McDevitt told the Daily Telegraph the wildlife ring was part of a multi-billion dollar black market industry.
'This has been a complex investigation and the scale of criminality involved in the matter has been astounding,' he said.
There are grave concerns for a woman and her young son who haven't been seen for more than six weeks.
Police are desperately trying to locate Bobby-Jo Marshall, 32, and her son Shimma Wise, 14.
The pair were last seen in Ipswich, south-west of Brisbane, on 19 January.
Police are desperately trying to locate Bobby-Jo Marshall, 32 (left), and her son Shimma Wise, 14 (right)
Ms Marshall (pictured) and her son were last seen in Ipswich, south-west of Brisbane, on 19 January
Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate the pair.
Bobby-Jo is described as being 170cm tall, thin build, with a fair complexion and blonde hair.
Shimma, is 14 years old, 170cm tall, with a thin build and tanned complexion.
Police have released pictures of Bobby-Jo and Shimma in the hope that someone might recognise them.
Anyone who sees Bobby-Jo and Shimma are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are being sent to Germany and Poland on official visits just weeks after the start of official Brexit talks.
William and Kate will tour the two countries in July at the specific request of the Foreign Office, run by leading Brexiteer Boris Johnson.
The Royal couple were already due to visit France later this month in a trip that will likely take place within days of Theresa May filing the Article 50 notification that will start irreversible Brexit talks.
And the royal charm offensive does not stop there. The Daily Mail can reveal that Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall are expected to tour a number of EU countries including Italy in late March and early April.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are being sent to Germany and Poland on official visits just weeks after the start of official Brexit talks
Royal visits to EU nations during the talks may help underline Mrs May's insistence that while Britain is quitting the European Union, it is not leaving Europe.
Senior Conservative Jacob Rees-Mogg told MailOnline: 'An excellent move to secure and improve relations with an important ally.'
Laws handing Mrs May power over Article 50 - the clause in the EU treaties that contain the divorce procedures for the bloc - are expected to be law on or around March 15.
This will allow her to meet her timetable of triggering Article 50 and starting the two years of official exit talks before the end of the month.
The Royal Family have long been seen as crucial levers of 'soft power' to the Government.
William travelled to Germany last summer, visiting Dusseldorf for a series of events honouring the role of British armed forces based in the country.
During a gala event, where the Duke gave a speech alongside Chancellor Angela Merkel, William claimed the 'depth' of Britain's friendship with Germany would not change after Brexit.
The British monarchy has close ties with the European country, as a succession of sovereigns from George I, born in what is now modern Germany and who acceded to the throne in 1714, to William IV, who died in 1830, were also rulers of Hanover in Germany.
Royal visits to EU nations during the talks may help underline Mrs May's insistence that while Britain is quitting the European Union, it is not leaving Europe
The 300th anniversary of what is known as the 'personal union' was celebrated in 2014, and the year before the milestone, princesses Beatrice and Eugenie visited Germany to highlight the event.
During a state visit to Germany in 2015, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh visited the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp to mark the 70th anniversary of its liberation by British forces.
Kate has yet to make an official trip to Germany and the Cambridges have not toured Poland before on behalf of the Government.
Kensington Palace said full details of the visit would be released at a later date.
A Whitehall source said: The work they do in establishing and nurturing relationships with other countries has always been invaluable and will be even more crucial as we try to strengthen bilateral relations after Brexit.
Patrick Stewart has revealed he is applying for US citizenship so he can 'fight and oppose' Donald Trump.
The Star Trek actor, 76, said on Thursday that getting an American passport 'might be the only good thing as the result of this election'.
The legendary thespian - who was born in West Yorkshire but lives in Brooklyn - added that he and his wife went to Washington last month to visit friends and ask them what they could do about the President.
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Patrick Stewart has revealed he is applying for US citizenship so he can 'fight and oppose' Donald Trump
Speaking on The View, he explained: 'I want to be an American, too.
'All of my friends in Washington said: "There is one thing you can do. Fight, fight; oppose, oppose." But I can't do it because I'm not a citizen.'
Sir Patrick, who lives in Brooklyn with his third wife Sunny Ozell, admitted that as a couple they had 'three separate dinners' with their 'Washington insider' friends to work out 'what we could do' about Trump.
He was also questioned about a Tweet he posed on February 10 in which he wrote: 'Had the worst sleep of my life last night.
The Star Trek actor, 76, said on Thursday that getting an American passport 'might be the only good thing as the result of this election'.
Stewart Tweeted that he had 'the worst sleep' after having dinner with his 'Washington insider' friends to ask them what he could do about Trump
'But I was sleeping less than 300 yds from where Donald Trump sleeps. Could there be a connection?'
Stewart explained that he posted the Tweet after the third dinner with friends, and insisted it was 'a fairly innocent Tweet' that 'didn't directly insult the President'.
Stewart has lived on and off in the United States since securing the legendary Star Trek role of Jean-Luc Picard in the 1980s.
The legendary thespian was born in West Yorkshire but has lived in Brooklyn with his wife Sunny Ozell since 2012
He has lived in Brooklyn since 2012 with musician Ozell - who he married in 2013 after five years together.
The actor previously took aim at Trump on social media last March, when he Tweeted a photo of a man carrying a sign that read: 'Give me a dollar or I vote for Trump.'
He wrote alongside the shot: 'Made me forget the humidity for a moment. Worth 5 bucks.'
He also claimed Trump couldn't be taken 'seriously' due to his 'antics' in an interview with Vice last May.
'Well, of course, we had no idea that Dreadful Trump would be up to these antics that he is up to now,' he told the website.
'And I call them antics because how could they possibly be taken seriously.'
Stewart reprises his role as X-Men founder Professor X in the Wolverine tale, Logan, which opens on Friday.
He revealed he'll be leaving the X-Men franchise after Logan earlier this month.
While onstage at a SiriusXM Town Hall with the film's leading man Hugh Jackman and director James Mangold, he recalled deciding to stop playing Professor X.
At the film's world premiere during this year's Berlinale: 'I realized there will never be a better, a more perfect, a more sensitive, emotional, and beautiful way of saying au revoir to Charles Xavier than this movie.'
The actor previously took aim at Trump on social media last March, when he Tweeted a photo of a man carrying a sign that read: 'Give me a dollar or I vote for Trump'
The 76-year-old remembered of the February 17 event: 'A week ago, Friday night in Berlin, the three of us sat, watching the movie. And I was so moved by it, much more moved than I had been the first time of seeing it.'
When he had a look at Jackman, who's also announced his departure from the franchise post-Logan, he noticed the man who played Wolverine tearing up.
At which point: 'I realized I had just done the same thing. Then, the movie ended and we were going to be taken up on stage, but not until the credits were over.'
Blog Hinangai
While there is much discussion in Guam about the economic benefits of increasing the islands military presence, the damages/dangers that they represent are rarely mentioned. This blog, a supplement to the Peace and Justice for Guam Petition, is meant to counter that by providing information about the US military in Guam, with the hopes of steering policy away from a dangerous unilateralist course to more sustainable notions of regional development and a strengthening international solidarity.
A woman who once sued financier sex offender Jeffrey Epstein for forcing her into sex acts when she was 16 has been charged with breaking into a Victoria's Secret and stealing bras.
Maximillia Cordero, 33, was arrested after allegedly breaking into the Victoria's Secret on 86th Street in Manhattan Monday around 11.30pm, reports the New York Daily News. She was charged with grand larceny and burglary.
A passing police officer noticed the revolving door to the store was damaged and found Cordero inside, stealing $1,000 worth of push-bras, G-strings, and makeup, according to the outlet.
Cordero was allegedly intoxicated. She was reportedly dressed in tattered clothing and a black coat.
She was checked into a hospital for a psychiatric evaluation. She has a long-history of mental health problems.
Registered sex offender Jeffrey Epstein (left) was sued by aspiring model Maximillia Cordero (right) who said he pressured her into 'unnatural' sex acts when she was just a teen by promising to help her model for Victoria's Secret. She has been arrested for breaking into a store in Manhattan and stealing $1,000 of goods
In 2007, the aspiring model filed suit against Epstein, who served 13 months in prison for soliciting an underage prostitute, claiming that he had pressured her into oral sex and other 'bizarre and unnatural sex acts' when she was a teen and trying to be a model. She said that Epstein promised to help her model for Victoria's Secret, in exchange for sex acts.
The suit was dismissed in 2008, because Cordero was found not to be 'insane' at the time of the alleged forced sexual relations, reports the Observer.
Cordero didn't file suit until seven years after the alleged incidents, after the statute of limitations had expired, and two years after Epstein was accused of several instances of soliciting sex from underage girls, said the outlet.
A cop noticed that the revolving door to the store (above) was damaged and investigated, allegedly finding Cordero inside pilfering bras, G-strings and makeup
Police sources told the Daily News that in 2009, Cordero pulled a knife on an ex-boyfriend in 2009, and was charged with assault.
In 2014, she was arrested for burglary after stealing two bottles of perfume from a Columbus Circle Sephora and was sentenced to seven months in prison.
'Shes mentally unwell and on medication for her psychosis,' her lawyer at the time, William Unroch, told the New York Post in 2007.
On Friday, the Miami Herald reported that although feds had a sweeping indictment to charge Epstein with underage sex trafficking, but the US attorney office's lead, Alex Acosta, decided to stick with state charges after negotiating with Epstein's defense team.
If Epstein had been convicted of the charges in the indictment, he could have spent the rest of his life behind bars.
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Parts of Britain face more than two inches of rain in just 12 hours as the country prepares for a washout weekend.
On the first weekend of meteorological spring, the Met Office has issued a weather warning for heavy and persistent downpours in Scotland and Northern Ireland tonight and tomorrow with snow also possible on higher ground.
Parts of England and Wales are on flood watch today, with 18 alerts in place for areas around West London, Stafford and Shrewsbury, as well as a more serious warning issued for the North Sea coast at Bridlington.
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Umbrellas at the ready: People try their best to avoid getting wet in Cambridge today as Britain prepares for a wet weekend
Commuters stand on the platform at Petts Wood train station in Kent this morning as the UK endures wet and cold weather
Shoppers shelter from the rain in Southampton city centre in Hampshire today as the UK faces two inches of rain overnight
Tourists huddle under umbrellas as they try to enjoy punting on the River Cam in Cambridge today despite the bad weather
Tonight will be largely cloudy for Britain, with outbreaks of rain in most areas. Eastern and northern areas will see the most persistent downpours, while the South East of England could also see heavier bursts at times.
Rain will linger for much of tomorrow in eastern and northern areas, and will turn heavy in the far north of Scotland during the afternoon - while it will be drier and brighter elsewhere but with showers in the West.
On Sunday further spells of rain will push up from the South West, with heavy and possibly thundery showers developing for central and southern areas, while Scotland and Northern Ireland will also see outbreaks of rain.
The start of next week is not looking much better at the moment either, with unsettled weather forecast for Monday with showers and patchy rain in the North. Elsewhere, it will be bright but with a few showers around.
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The Met Office has warned of 2in of rain in Northern Ireland (left) overnight and 1.6in in eastern Scotland tomorrow (right)
Parts of England and Wales are on flood watch today, with 18 alerts (in orange) and one more serious warning (in red) issued
A Met Office warning for rain in eastern Scotland tells of an active frontal system pushing up from the south, bringing 1.2in (30mm) of rain quite widely - while some areas could see 1.6in (40mm) over higher ground.
A short period of snow is also possible on higher ground above 1,000ft before it turns to rain, while a warning for Northern Ireland forecasts more than 2in (50mm) to fall in a 12-hour period between tonight and tomorrow.
The highest rainfall recorded anywhere in Britain yesterday was 1.2in (30.4mm) at Capel Curig in North Wales, while the coldest place was Tyndrum in Scotland where temperatures fell to -4.9C (23F).
Meteorological spring began two days ago on Wednesday, while March 20 is the first day of astronomical spring.
Five fishermen are rescued after trawler sinks in bad weather
Five fishermen have been rescued from the water after their trawler sank in bad weather off Shetland today.
The crew called for help at around 6.50am when the Lerwick-registered vessel Ocean Way began taking on water.
Lerwick RNLI lifeboat and the Coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Sumburgh both went to the scene, with the lifeboat arriving at 8.05am.
The crew called for help at around 6.50am when the Lerwick-registered vessel Ocean Way began taking on water
Two lifeboat crew, one of whom works on the Ocean Way, were transferred to the trawler with a salvage pump, while Norwegian fish carrier the Gerda Saele had already put a pump on board.
The helicopter began winching a third pump on board, however Ocean Way's skipper decided to abandon ship when it became apparent that the vessel was beyond saving.
Due to the sea conditions, it was too dangerous to take the lifeboat alongside, so the five crew and two RNLI volunteers jumped into the water minutes before the trawler sank at 8.20am.
They were picked up by the lifeboat, crewed by eight volunteers, and taken back to Lerwick, arriving at 9.50am.
The trawler crew were all wearing life jackets and had an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon on board the vessel which went off, pinpointing their position.
Rescuers praised them for having the correct equipment.
Lifeboat coxswain Alan Tarby said: 'While the third pump was being winched on board the skipper decided to abandon ship and within minutes of him making that decision they got off and it sank, so it was a good call by the skipper.
'The rescue was made much easier because the Ocean Way's crew were all wearing the correct safety equipment and had undergone safety training. It was a good outcome even although the vessel was lost, all the crew were unharmed.
'The lifeboat crew performed very well, especially the two men who were in the water with the fishermen.'
The fishermen were checked over by ambulance crew in Lerwick but did not need medical treatment.
Mark Rodaway, commander for the UK Coastguard, said: 'This was a difficult rescue in awful weather. In the sea conditions, the lifeboat had a difficult time trying to safely get alongside the fishing vessel which subsequently sunk.
'But I'm delighted to say that all five fishermen are safe and well and the fact that they were all wearing life jackets ensured that they had the best chance of survival.'
A pervert who raped a hen because he could not find a girlfriend tried to get a reduced sentence saying he was too afraid to chat up women.
Kevin Simiyi was caught in the vile act by the horrified owner of the chicken, which died from exhaustion shortly after the ordeal.
After asking for a lenient jail term, he was sent to prison for 15 months by a magistrate in Kenya for bestiality.
Kevin Simiyi was caught having sex with the hen by the animal's owner in Kenya
The pervert tried to bargain for a lenient sentence because he was a first-time offender
Magistrate Stephen Mogute sentenced him to 15 months in Bungoma Prison (pictured)
The 18-year-old told a shocked court he was too afraid to chat up women and they did not fancy him because he was poor.
When asked if he was guilty, he said: 'Yes, I did it.
'I was caught defiling the hen by its owner.
'I fear approaching women because of the high level of poverty and I feel women are very expensive.'
Judith Nasimiyu, the hen's owner, told the hearing the bird died of exhaustion last Friday as vets collected evidence against Simiyi.
The teenager pleaded guilty to bestiality in Bungoma, Kenya, and brazenly asked the court to be lenient because he was a first offender.
But magistrate Stephen Mogute sentenced him to 15 months in Bungoma Prison.
Federal authorities have arrested a disgraced former journalist from St. Louis for making a number of threats against Jewish institutions as part of a vicious internet campaign against a former lover.
Juan Thompson, 31, was arrested by the FBI in St. Louis on Thursday for allegedly making bomb threats against at least eight Jewish community centers, the US Attorney's Office said.
Thompson is alleged to have engaged in a campaign to harass and intimidate', prosecutors said.
Thompson is a former journalist who was fired from The Intercept after it was learned he had fabricated quotes and invented sources.
The news site, which focuses on national security issues, acknowledged last year that Thompson used fake email accounts to impersonate others.
He was also found to have attributed quotes to individuals in news stories even though those people later said they were never interviewed.
Thompson was charged in New York with cyberstalking a woman by communicating threats to JCCs in the womans name.
If convicted, Thompson faces up to five years in federal prison. He is due in a St. Louis federal court on Friday.
Federal authorities have arrested Juan Thompson (above), a disgraced former journalist from St. Louis, in connection with a number of threats made against Jewish institutions
Juan Thompson, 31, is a disgraced former journalist fired from The Intercept for fabricating quotes. He was charged by the federal government with cyberstalking
People are evacuated from the David Posnack Jewish Community Center in Davie, Florida, on February 27 after a bomb threat. Thompson allegedly made threats against eight Jewish institutions in the name of a former lover
Thompson appears to have made at least eight of the JCC threats as part of a sustained campaign to harass and intimidate the woman after their romance ended.
Approximately 100 Jewish centers have been threatened in recent weeks. In addition, Jewish cemeteries have been vandalized and headstones knocked over.
Thompson will also be questioned about the tombstone desecrations, authorities said.
On Monday, 21 bomb threats were phoned in to 13 JCCs and eight Jewish schools in Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Virginia.
Thompson is also alleged to have sent 'defamatory emails and faxes' to the woman's employer as well as 'false reports of criminal activity' by the woman.
Thompson is also alleged to have sent 'defamatory emails and faxes' to the woman's employer as well as 'false reports of criminal activity' by the woman. He also used his Twitter to feed to allege that she was stalking him and trying to frame him
Federal authorities also say that Thompson used his Twitter feed to allege that the woman in question made threats against him as well as President Donald Trump
The tweet above was cited by the federal government in its complaint against Thompson. Here he tweeted that the woman in question was 'a filthy anti-Semite'
Federal authorities allege that Thompson had falsely claimed that the woman possess child pornography back in October.
When questioned about the claim in November, Thompson told investigators that his internet was hacked.
The government alleges that Thompson began to make threats against Jewish institutions back in January.
On or about February 21, Thompson allegedly emailed a threat to the New York offices of the Anti-Defamation League.
A St. Louis Police car is seen outside of Thompson's home in St. Louis on Friday
'[The woman] is behind the bomb threats against jews,' the email read. 'She lives in nyc and is making more bomb threats tomorrow.'
The next day, the ADL received a phone call stating that explosive materials had been placed in its midtown Manhattan office.
The federal government also alleges that on or around February 7, a JCC in Manhattan received an emailed bomb threat from an anonymous account.
'Juan Thompson put two bombs in the office of the Jewish center today,' the email read. 'He wants to create Jewish newtown tomorrow.'
'Newtown' is a reference to Newtown, Connecticut, the site of a December 2012 school shooting that left 26 people dead, among them 20 children.
On or about February 21, Thompson allegedly emailed a threat to the New York offices of the Anti-Defamation League (seen above)
Federal authorities also say that Thompson used his Twitter feed to allege that the woman in question made threats against him as well as President Donald Trump.
Thompson claimed in the tweets that the woman was trying to frame him.
'Y'all know how to get a social worker in NY barred?' he tweeted on Monday. 'I'm being stalked and harassed by a white nasty white woman in NYC.'
He tweeted that he had been questioned by the FBI and the Secret Service who were investigating the matter.
'The Secret Service visited me looked at my tweets, questioned my politics b/c some awful white woman I date reported me,' Thompson tweeted the same day.
'I won't be silenced.'
The ADL tweeted on Friday that the suspect behind the threat had been arrested
In a pinned tweet on his account, he wrote a rambling note filled with accusations against the woman and 'the racist FBI.'
Two years ago, after swearing off white women, I started dating one, he tweeted.
She seemed like a cool Brooklyn white radical. There were [sic] warning signs though; she didnt tell me she had herpes until AFTER we hooked up; she called me a thug, in an approving way, because she liked I was wearing Js and balling shorts after the gym; and she called herself captain save-a-thug a reference to the type of black men she dated.
We broke up after someone showed me the light, and since then shes stalked and harassed me, he wrote. [She] threatened to have me killed, and said she was going to make me a prison statistic and looked forward to me being raped in prison.
[The woman] is a clinical [sic] director at a prominent NYC non-profit.
She, though I cant prove it, even sent a bomb threat in my name to a Jewish center, which was odd given her anti-Semitic statements.
I got a visit from the FBI. So now Im battling the racist FBI and this vile, evil, racist white woman.
Im afraidwe know what happens when white women use the law to go after black men.
On Sunday, Thompson re-tweeted a number of news stories about the bomb threats against the JCC as well as other historical articles and references to anti-Semitism and the Nazis.
'The hatred of Jews goes across all demos,' he tweeted in a post that was referenced in the US Attorney's Office complaint.
'Ask NYCs [employer of the woman in question,' he tweeted. 'They employ a filthy anti-Semite. These ppl are evil.'
'Thompsons alleged pattern of harassment not only involved the defamation of his female victim, but his threats intimidated an entire community,' FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge William Sweeney said.
'The FBI and our partners take these crimes seriously.'
After Thompson's arrest, Jewish community leaders met with FBI Director James Comey.
The JCC Association of North America said Friday's meeting included discussion of threats directed against Jewish institutions in the past two months.
The association says the Jewish community is deeply grateful for the FBI's 'extraordinary effort.'
It says representatives left the meeting 'with the highest confidence' that the agency will work to resolve the matter soon.
Bizarre footage shows the moment passersby try to rescue a luxury car after it drove into cement in China.
The driver did not realise that the road was unfinished and the cement was still wet at the time of the incident on March 1 in Foshan, southern China.
According to local media, the Lexus car was eventually freed after the driver spent hours cleaning cement from the vehicle.
The driver looks at the wheel as he tries to move the vehicle after driving it into thick cement
The footage shows the driver of the luxury car peering out the window and trying the move the vehicle.
Onlookers stepped in to help him try and push the car and lend a hand.
However the car appears to be stuck.
According to reports, the driver thought the road was finished and was shocked when the vehicle became stuck in the wet cement.
After hours of cleaning, the driver managed to get the car out of the cement.
President Donald Trump will meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the White House for the first time on March 14.
Trump continuously criticized the German chancellor during the U.S. election for taking in so many refugees.
Merkel's open-door policy, he said, was a 'catastrophic mistake.' The conservative politician even accused his contemporary of 'ruining Germany.'
He'll attempt to put all that behind them later this month as plays host to his sixth foreign leader.
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German Chancellor Angela Merkel will be meeting with Donald Trump for the first time in the White House on March 14
The two had previously spoken via telephone in January just days after Trump's inauguration.
Trump and Merkel discussed conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine and agreed on the importance of NATO, during the 'extensive conversation.'
Merkel, who wields significant sway in Europe, was critical of Trump's refugee and immigration travel ban, but the topic was not discussed during the phone call.
While former President Barack Obama had labeled Merkel an 'outstanding partner', there has been little known contact between the German leader and Trump since he took office.
Trump spokeswoman Sarah Hucakbee Sanders did not offer details today on what the two may discuss.
As a candidate, Trump given Merkel mixed leadership marks.
Although he claimed in March of 2016 that 'Germany's being destroyed by Merkel's naivete or worse,' he's also said he respected the foreign leader until she instituted the refugee policy.
'I think Merkel is a really great world leader but I was very disappointed that, when she, this move with the whole thing on immigration,' Trump in September said. 'I think it's a big problem and really you know to look at what she's done in the last year and a half.'
Continuing, he claimed, 'I was always a Merkel person. I thought, really fantastic, but I think she made a very tragic mistake a year and a half ago.'
A year before, in December 2015, he said of Merkel, 'Nice woman, I like her, I like her. I better like her, I may have to deal with her.
'Look, Putin likes me. I want her to like me too.'
Since moving into the White House, Trump has used Germany's problems as justification for his thwarted decision to tighten America's own refugee policies.
'We've got to keep our country safe. You look at what's happening in Germany,' he said a February rally in Melbourne, Florida.
Trump's second-in-command, Mike Pence, sought to extend an olive branch to Merkel during a trip to Germany over President's Day weekend.
Pence had a 'very friendly' conversation with Merkel, aides to her reportedly said, during which they discussed Iran.
The vice president on the same trip committed the United States to defending European security.
'This is President Trump's promise: we will stand with Europe today and every day, because we are bound together by the same noble ideals freedom, democracy, justice and the rule of law,' Pence said.
Now in his second month in office, Trump has not yet traveled to any foreign countries as president but has hosted five other heads of government to the White House. The leaders of the U.K., Japan, Canada, Israel and Peru came in that order.
A rendezvous with the Mexican president was cancelled after they agreed to disagree on Trump's border wall
A hotel overlooking Israel's security wall - branded 'the worst view in the world' by its manager - has been opened by British artist Banksy.
The guest house, in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, includes a mural by the secretive artist showing a Palestinian having a pillow fight with an Israeli.
The Walled Off Hotel also features a presidential suite and a museum with the artist's politically-charged work.
A statement from Banksy said it was themed around 'an English gentlemen's club from colonial times', acknowledging the historical role Britain played in the Middle East.
The guest house, in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, includes a Banksy mural showing a Palestinian having a pillow fight with an Israeli
The hotel is awash in the trademark satirical work of the mysterious artist
It is far from a standard tourist spot though, with the decor including statues choking on tear gas, cherubs hanging from the ceiling, their faces covered by oxygen masks and oil paintings of refugee life jackets washed ashore.
I dont know why but it felt like a good time to reflect on what happens when the United Kingdom makes a huge political decision without fully comprehending the consequences. Banksy
The hotel was set up in secrecy over the last 14 months - Israeli military authorities in the West Bank did not immediately respond when asked if they had been aware in advance.
In a statement the artist said: 'Its exactly one hundred years since Britain took control of Palestine and started re-arranging the furniture - with chaotic results.
'I dont know why but it felt like a good time to reflect on what happens when the United Kingdom makes a huge political decision without fully comprehending the consequences.'
A statue of a chimpanzee bell-boy stands at the entrance, clothes falling out of the suitcase he holds.
It looks directly at the West Bank separation barrier erected by Israel to ward off potential Palestinian attackers.
An employee stands in the bar area of The Walled Off Hotel in the West Bank city of Bethlehem
A waiter in the hotel, which displays artwork from British artist Banksy
The barrier is heavily decorated by artists, and Banksy has previously painted several murals on a walled segment of it.
The hotel is awash in the trademark satirical work of the mysterious artist. The highlight is room number three, known as Banksy's Room, where guests sleep in a king-size bed underneath Banksy's artwork showing a Palestinian and an Israeli in a pillow fight.
The guest house also features a depiction of the signing of the 1919 Balfour declaration, in which British Foreign Secretary Arthur Balfour gave support to a Jewish homeland.
The hotel also has its own art gallery and an exhibition dedicated solely to the wall, which features contributions from Palestinians and Israelis.
The Walled Off is Banksy's biggest project since the 2015 Dismaland theme park at the English seaside, where staff carried balloons proclaiming "I'm an imbecile" and model boats full of refugees floated in a pond.
The view from the hotel of the Israeli security wall, which has been dubbed 'the worst view in the world' by the guest house's owner
A wall decorated with security cameras and slingshots is seen in the bar area of the hotel
The presidential suite of the The Walled Off Hotel in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, featuring work by British artist Banksy
Artwork in the restaurant area of the hotel, where the cheapest rooms are available from $30 a night
The cheapest rooms were available from $30 a night.
Banksy, whose real name is not known, described his guesthouse as having the worst view of any hotel in the world. Every room overlooks the barrier which is a symbol of oppression for the Palestinians.
Israel began building it in 2002 at the height of a Palestinian uprising in which Israeli cities were rocked by frequent Palestinian suicide bombings.
Palestinians dub it an 'apartheid wall' and an Israeli attempt to grab land in the West Bank, which they want along with Gaza and East Jerusalem, for a future state.
Banksy has made previous forays into the Palestinian territories. In one secret visit, he drew a painting of a girl pulled upward by balloons on the barrier facing his current project.
Last year, he is believed to have sneaked into Gaza to draw four street murals, including one on a metal door that depicted the Greek goddess Niobe cowering against the rubble of a destroyed house.
The Banksy statement said the hotel 'offers a warm welcome to people from all sides of the conflict and across the world" and was financed by the artist'.
The presidential suite of The Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem, which features work by British artist Banksy
A mural showing an Israeli having a pillow fight with a Palestinian is on the wall in one of the bedrooms
Manager Wissam Salsah said he was hopeful that the hotel would attract guests from around the world.
He said: 'We hope that were going to support a tourism that already exists in Bethlehem, known as Banksy tourism.
'I hope were going to generate millions of dollars for the economy of Bethlehem.'
Banksy's work is displayed in The Walled Off Hotel, which is next to an Israeli security wall in Bethlehem
Gavin Grindon of the University of Essex, who co-curated with Banksy the museum inside The Walled Off Hotel, stands by a re-enactment of the signing of the 1919 Balfour declaration in the in the West Bank city of Bethlehem
The painting, titled Bomb Damage, was drawn on the last remaining part of a two-story house that was destroyed in the 2014 war between Israel and Gaza's Hamas rulers.
The artist's satirical stencils - rats, kissing policemen, riot police with yellow smiley faces - first appeared on walls in Bristol before spreading to London and then around the world.
His artwork comments on war, child poverty and the environment. His identity remains a mystery, but his works have fetched as much as $1.8 million at auctions.
Previous work by Banksy includes a picture of a girl with balloons on a security wall in Ramallah, West Bank
A Banksy mural in Bethlehem, adourning a separation wall between Israel and the West Bank
The number of advisors linked to President Donald Trump who met with Russia's ambassador to the U.S. has grown to five with two more acknowledging the contacts Thursday night.
Carter Page, who Trump identified as among his first foreign policy advisors, acknowledged the contact on MSNBC Thursday night when he didn't deny meeting with Kisklak.
Kislyak's role as the Kremlin's eyes and ears in Washington exploded onto the scene after it was revealed he met with a number of officials in Trump's inner circle during the campaign and after Trump won the presidency.
'I'm not going to deny that I talked with him," Page told MSBNC's Chris Hayes.
UNDENIABLE: Former Donald Trump campaign advisor Carter Page said he wouldn't deny speaking to Russia's ambassador to the U.S.
"I will say that I never met him anywhere outside of Cleveland, let's just say that much," Page said.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced Thursday that he was recusing himself from any investigations involving Russia and Trump campaign ties after it was revealed he met twice with the Russian ambassador to the U.S. and didn't disclose it to Congress.
Page confirmed the contacts after a USA Today report, and after earlier in the interview saying he didn't want to talk about it because of confidentiality conditions.
Not quitting: Jeff Sessions said he would sit out any decision on prosecutions which could arise from current investigations into whether Russia meddled in the election - but that he had not lied to the Senate
President Donald Trump said he had 'total' confidence in his attorney general and does not think he should recuse himself from Justice Department investigations involving Russia - only hours before Sessions announced he would recuse himself
Page explained his meeting with Russia's ambassador, which occurred during a session in connection with the Republican convention in Cleveland, on MSNBC
'Im not talking about any meetings that I had there, because I learned confidentiality rules when I served in the U.S. Navy,' he said.
Page also downplayed his role as a Trump advisor. 'I never directly briefed Donald Trump. I was part of a named committee which was put together,' he said.
Page participated in a conference at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, where the contact occurred.
Also appearing were Sessions, and former Trump campaign aide J.D. Gordon.
USA identified Gordon as speaking to Kislyak at the event, something Gordon also confirmed to CNN.
Gordon told CNN that no inappropriate chatter came up in the conversation.
"This is not any different than anything I said publicly and on panels," he said.
USA Today and Gordon also identified Trump foreign policy advisor Walid Phares as speaking at the event. Phares didn't immediately return an email seeking comment.
A program for the event also shows Deputy National Security Advisor KT McFarland was there.
Former Trump national security advisor Mike Flynn resigned under pressure after it was revealed he met with Kislyak. According to administration officials, Flynn didn't reveal to Vice President Mike Pence that discussions of Obama-imposed Russia sanctions came up.
The list of Trump-connected Kislyak contacts includes Flynn, Sessions, Kushner, Page, and Gordon.
The New York Times reported Thursday that Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner met with Kislyak inside Trump Tower in December.
He got smuggled into the building, since his appearance wasn't noticed by reporters camped out the building's lobby each day.
Kislyak's role is coming under increasing scrutiny amid the array of Trump contacts. "I don't think he's a spy literally. He is a veteran diplomat," John McLaughlin, the former acting director of the CIA told MSNBC. But he added that: 'He's very clever, he's very experienced. He would certainly be collecting information. That's what diplomats and spies do.'
U.S. intelligence agencies believe Russia hacked the U.S. elections. The FBI and the House and Senate intelligence committees are probing possible contacts between Trump associates and the Russians.
Page told MSNBC that during his three years in Russia, he didn't talk about sanctions or the alleged Russian hacking.
He also didn't want to delve into his role advising Trump, whom he said he never briefed.
'I dont like talking about internal discussions. Its the old first rule of Fight Club, you dont talk about Fight Club,' he said, quoting the film.
A Taco Bell employee was fired after writing 'F*** pigs' on the bottom of an officer's takeout bag.
The Houston police officer grabbed food from the Taco Bell on 8919 Spring Cypress Road on Tuesday.
After the officer took his food home and ate it, he discovered the derogatory phrase.
The officer immediately posted a photo on Facebook and called his union, which contacted Taco Bell.
A Taco Bell employee was fired after writing 'F*** pigs' on the bottom of a Houston police officer's takeout bag (pictured)
Taco Bell released a statement shortly after the incident and confirmed the employee responsible had been fired. The company also apologized to the officer and the entire Houston police force. The officer grabbed food from the Taco Bell on 8919 Spring Cypress Road (above)
'The officer was extremely upset when he saw that on his bag,' Joseph Gamaldi, vice president, Houston Police Officers Union told KPRC2.
Shortly after seeing the post on Facebook, Taco Bell initially said: 'We take this seriously. We don't tolerate discrimination and are looking into this immediately.'
Not long after, the company released a statement confirming that the employee had been fired and apologizing to the officer.
'B&G Food Enterprises, the franchise owner of this Spring, Texas location, and Taco Bell in no way endorse this sentiment.
'We are deeply appreciative of the men and women who serve and protect our communities and our country. The franchisee does not tolerate discrimination in any way, and in the course of the investigation has terminated the employee involved.'
The incident happened the same day two other officers were shot and hospitalized after an altercation with 52 Hoover Crips gang member, Earl Donnell Riley (pictured)
'B&G Food has contacted the officer and the Houston Police Officers Union to apologize directly and assure them of their ongoing support of law enforcement,' the statement read.
Gamaldi told KHOU that 'Taco Bell really stepped up to the plate' by firing the employee, apologizing to the officer and apologizing 'to every single Houston police officer'.
The incident happened the same day two other officers were shot and hospitalized after an altercation with a 52 Hoover Crips gang member.
Officers Ronny Cortez and Jose Munoz were shot in Southwest Houston while responding to a burglary, according to Chron.com.
Earl Donnell Riley, who was just released from prison 10 months ago, was killed in an exchange of gunfire with the officers.
Riley, who died at the scene of the crime, was one of two suspects. The second unidentified suspect is still at large.
Officer Munoz was released from a hospital on Wednesday, while Officer Cortez is still at Memorial Hermann with a bullet lodged close to his spine.
A Florida man accused of throwing his young daughter to her death more than 60 feet off a Tampa Bay area bridge has been found competent to stand trial.
Pinellas County Judge Joseph Bulone issued the ruling Friday.
In January, state mental health doctors determined 27-year-old John Jonchuck was ready to stand trial.
He was deemed incompetent in February 2015, the month after prosecutors say he dropped five-year-old Phoebe Jonchuck into Tampa Bay off the Dick Misener bridge.
John Jonchuck, left, is accused of throwing his young daughter Phoebe, right to her death more than 60 feet off a Tampa Bay area bridge in January 2015
Prosecutors say the father dropped the five-year-old girl into Tampa Bay off the Dick Misener bridge (pictured)
According to the Tampa Bay Times, just hours ahead of the incident Jonchuck brought his daughter to the office of an attorney - and he said he was the Pope, sought a DNA test, and wanted the attorney to read a Bible in Swedish.
That attorney contacted 911, and Jonchuck was located at a church by deputies who determined he wasn't displaying mental illness signs, the newspaper said.
Prosecutors say they're hoping for a fall trial.
Jonchuck will remain at the state hospital in Gainesville until the case is closer to trial, the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Pinellas-Pasco Chief Assistant State Attorney Brian Bartlett says they're concerned Jonchuck will become incompetent again if he's not forced to take his medication.
The state is seeking the death penalty.
Johnchuck, seen in a January 2015 file image, has been found competent to stand trial
Michelle Kerr is the girl's mother and told the Tampa Bay Times: 'I don't know how to put it into words. I've been waiting for this day for a long time.'
Jonchuck's mother, Michele Jonchuck, also spoke to the outlet, saying: 'Oh my God. I hate what he did, but I still love him because he's my son.
'He took away something very dear to me because Phoebe meant the world to me.'
She said the death penalty 'would be too easy on him.
'My whole family and I have to deal with this every day, and I believe he should have to deal with it. But at the same time, I believe he needs help.'
Two Canadian sisters who vanished 36 years ago have been found alive in the US and claim they didn't know they had been reported missing.
Anna Hakze, now 67, and her sister Kym Hakze, now 53, were last seen by their mother in Edmonton, Canada in 1981.
She reported them missing in 2003, although it is not known why she waited for more than a decade after she lost contact with them.
She died four years ago, never knowing what became of her daughters.
Anna (left) and Kym Hakze (right) were last seen more than 30 years ago. They have been located alive and living in the US. Police say the Hakze sisters were last seen by family in Edmonton, Canada, in the mid-1980s
'After so many years, its very unusual for a case like this to end with good news,' said Staff Sergeant Scott Woods of the Lethbridge Police Service
Kym, who goes by a different name now, told police last week that she and her sister did not know they were subjects of a missing persons case, police said.
Hazke added that the pair had 'walked away' from their lives in Canada decades earlier and still wanted to maintain their privacy.
Lethbridge police have not yet talked to Anna, but US authorities have confirmed where she lives, the Toronto Star reports.
'After so many years, its very unusual for a case like this to end with good news,' said Staff Sergeant Scott Woods of the Lethbridge Police Service at a Thursday news conference.
After so many years, its very unusual for a case like this to end with good news Staff Sergeant Scott Woods
'Usually we find ourselves telling a family their loved one has met with some sort of tragedy or, more often than not in a case of this age, never being able to provide any answers', Woods added.
The investigation, spanning decades and many dead ends, was kept open by police in the hope of providing closure to the women's family.
At one point, police thought they might have been among the victims of convicted serial killer Robert Pickton, who killed several women in the mid-1990s and buried them on his Port Coquitlam farm, because there was information suggesting the pair had moved to Vancouver - but there was no DNA match.
Police also provided the sisters' fingerprints to the US databank for missing and unidentified persons, to no avail.
Lethbridge police issued several pleas for information in the case. In October 2015, they posted a rare statement on the department's Facebook page, urging the sisters to contact them.
Lethbridge police have not yet talked to Anna Hakze, but US authorities have confirmed where she lives
'We understand you may have walked away from your lives and it is not our intention to disrupt them. We only want to confirm that you are OK,' the post reads.
'We will not disclose your current location to your family or anyone else if you do not wish for them to know. Confirmation of your well-being is all that is needed to close your case.'
Then, in 2012, investigators got the lead they had been searching for.
Police traced an alias Anna Hazke used to a woman in Vancouver, but she was not the missing sister.
TIMELINE OF ANNA AND KYM HAKZE'S DISAPPEARANCE 1981: Anna, 43, and Kym, 29, Hakze are last seen by family in Edmonton, Canada, after their father dies 1984: Vancouver newspaper article about a book written by one of the sisters under an unidentified alias is published 2003: Their mother reports them missing to police 2000s: Lethbridge police suspect they are victims of convicted serial killer Robert Pickton 2012: Police get a tip that two unidentified women could be them 2013: Their mother dies October 2015: Lethbridge police post a rare statement on the department's Facebook page, urging the sisters to contact them February 2017: Kym Hakze, who goes by a different name now, contacts police. She and her sister are living in the US Advertisement
That woman, however, had saved a Vancouver newspaper clipping from 1984 about a book written by a woman with the same unusual name as hers. She thought it was amusing, so she saved it.
In 2012, police got a tip that two women - an author of several books that used a different name than the one in the 1984 clip and another that went by an alias Kym used - could be the sisters.
The duo used numerous aliases after leaving Lethbridge and making their way to the US.
Attempts to contact them in 2012 failed.
Then another story about the author mentioned in the 2012 tip was published with a photo.
There were no records under that name, but a search did find the author from the 1984 clip that listed a sister as the next of kin.
'Todays world is big, vast,' said Woods. 'But it also because of travel and now the Internet can be very small, too.'
Fingerprints confirmed that the two women are Kym and Anna.
At the time of their disappearance, Anna, then 43, was estranged from her family and struggling financially.
Despite being on good terms with them, Kym disappeared with her sister when she was 29 years old. Police said they were inseparable.
'They had just left due to some family turmoil and had moved on, and were living their own life,' Woods said.
Neither woman contacted their relatives after they left Lethbridge.
Police aren't releasing any more information about the sisters to protect their privacy.
The sisters' contact information has been given to their family, who have told police that they will not be making any public statements.
Police don't know if Anna and Kym Hakze were from Lethbridge, Canada, (above) originally
Ken Hakze, 57, was notified last week that police had found his sisters.
He is one of three Hakze brothers. Gill lives in Lethbridge and Jerry is in Texas.
'My brother Gill called me last week when he was told. He was so shocked. He was really without words at first. We were always hoping they were alive,' Ken told the Calgary Sun.
He said Anna did not get along with their mother but was close to their father, who worked in a coal mine in Coleman, Canada.
When their father died in 1981 she and Kym disappeared.
Ken said Anna had married an American man who went to prison in California and, upon his release, they ended up living together in poor conditions.
Over the years, Ken said the family hired detectives and went through numerous agencies and the police in a desperate search for his sisters.
Ken said he and the brothers are thrilled to learn that their sisters are alive and hopes it gives them a second chance.
'No, it's not a sense of closure. There's a longing there to see them. I'm very sad we lost all these years for some reason I'm not quite sure of yet,' said Ken.
'I have a real desire to see them and communicate with them, very badly. My heart goes out to have that opportunity if they would soften their hearts to that.'
Ken said he has not spoken with either sister yet because police cannot release their contact information to him.
Statements made to police by an Oregon man accused of pushing his 23-year-old girlfriend off a cliff to her death will not be admissible at trial.
The Oregon Supreme Court ruled Thursday that a detective should have stopped interrogating Stephen Nichols when the suspect said he did not want to discuss Rhonda Castos death.
The interview occurred shortly after Nichols February 2015 arrest at San Francisco International Airport, nearly six years after his partners death.
Legal victory: The Oregon Supreme Court ruled Thursday that a detective should have stopped interrogating Stephen Nichols (left) when the suspect said he did not want to discuss the death of his girlfriend, 23-year-old Rhonda Casto
Crime scene: Casto fell 100 feet during a March 16, 2009, hike on the Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon (pictured)
Treacherous path: The hiking trail has a few narrow sections that drop off on one side into a ravine
A Hood River County judge had ruled the statement inadmissible, but the state appealed to the higher court.
Casto, an aspiring model and young mother, fell 100 feet during a March 16, 2009, hike on the Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia River Gorge.
Nichols called 911 at around 6pm that night to say the woman slipped.
The popular hiking destination has been the scene of other accidents in the past due to a few narrow sections that drop off on one side into a ravine.
The trail was even more dangerous that day due to a battering of sleet and hail that made the path treacherous.
Records show that several months before the incident, Nichols, then working as a day trader, increased Castos life insurance policy to $1million.
The Bend resident was secretly indicted while living in China in April 2014. He has pleaded not guilty.
Court documents show Nichols and Casto became romantically involved in 2005, according to The Oregonian.
Beauty: Nichols, then a recently divorced 30-year-old day trader, met Casto, a 20-year-old aspiring model, in 2005
Casto's mother introduced her to Nichols, and the young woman soon moved into his Portland condo
In 2008, Casto gave birth to the couple's daughter (pictured), who would ultimately become the beneficiary of her mother's life insurance, along with her father
In an interview with CBS' 48 Hours last year, Casto's mother, Julia Simmons, said that she was the one who introduced Nichols to her daughter while renting a room in his three-bedroom condominium in Portland.
Nichols was 30 years old and recently divorced. Casto was 20 at the time.
'Everything about her was impressive. And I just immediately fell in love with her,' Nichols said in the March 2015 interview.
Before long, Casto moved into Nichols' home, and three years later they welcomed their baby daughter, who is now seven.
Casto's mother said that shortly before her fall, the 23-year-old told her Nichols had been pestering her about going on a hike
The papers reveal that the couple each bought a $1million life insurance policy in late 2008 from MetLife and named each other as beneficiaries. Their daughter was named as contingent beneficiary.
Nichols eventually agreed to split the money with Casto's mother and with the estate of his daughter.
In the 48 Hours interview, Nichols said that after delivering their baby, Casto said she wanted to lose the baby weight so she could start modelling again, so the couple took up hiking.
Simmons, Casto's mother, said that in the weeks leading up to the fatal March 2009 outing to the Eagle Creek Trial, her daughter told her that Nichols had been trying to convince her to go for a hike for a month.
'She says, "he's either gonna give me a ring or he's gonna throw me off the cliff,"' the mother said in the episode.
Nichols said March 16, 2009, started off as a nice day but the weather turned inclement as the couple were making their up the narrow, moss-covered trail
As they reached a particularly slippery portion of the pathway, Casto fell off the cliff to her death.
Nichols said he hiked down to the spot where his girlfriend came to rest and tried to give her CPR, but it was too late.
He would later claim that the 23-year-old mom was high that afternoon, was acting silly and running on the slick trail before disaster struck.
A furious mother has hit out at bullies who teased her son because he went to school for World Book Day dressed as his favourite Dr Seuss character.
Jodie Rose, from London, posted a sad story on Facebook about her son, Preston, who dressed up as The Cat in the Hat.
She said children at Preston's school mocked him for going as a character from an 'actual book' rather than a superhero - clearly missing the point of the day.
Jodie Rose, from London, wrote a sad story about her son Preston, who dressed up as The Cat in the Hat from the famous Dr Seuss book
She said children at Preston's school mocked him for going as a character from an 'actual book' rather than a superhero - clearly missing the point of the day
Mrs Rose said her son was so upset he stuff the costume in his book bag for the rest of the day.
She wrote on Facebook: 'My son loves the Dr Seuss books and chose this character himself, only to be shot down by children whose parents allowed them to choose outfits of characters they obviously know from films.
'The total point of world book day missed, and my son teased and bullied in the process.'
More than a thousand people have shared Mrs Rose's post, with lots of people writing comments in support of Preston.
More than a thousand people have shared Mrs Rose's post, with lots of people writing comments in support of Preston'. Pictured: The Cat in a Hat pictured in a cartoon book
Mrs Rose told MailOnline: 'We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of positivity Preston has received today.
'I've showed him the many many comments and the ITV This morning program, which mentioned him, and his face lit up!
'He has found his smile again and has just asked to read his book again and fix his costume! Together we can stamp out bullying.'
Sarah Swift commented below Mrs Rose's original post: 'Your son looks amazing!.. Some kids can be so cruel.'
Vicky Hoare said: 'He looks amazing, such a good job. So sad that these days children can't just enjoy being themselves instead of following the crowd.'
Others said there children had also gone as characters from books.
Dale Taylor Dakota Smith said: 'Jodie, he looks incredible! I had exactly the same issue with my 4-year-old daughter yesterday.
'Arwen chose to go as the mad hatter from Alice in Wonderland - because she didn't go as a princess some of the girls teased her and she came home heartbroken.
'Took me three days of solid sewing to make her costume & she looked incredible & loved it yesterday morning.
Good effort: Preston, right, looked impressively like The Cat in the Hat.(left) His mother told MailOnline: 'We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of positivity Preston has received today.
Mrs Rose, seen with Preston (left) and her daughter, Darcie,(right), said: 'I've showed him the many many comments and his face lit up!'
Sarah Swift commented below Mrs Rose's original post: 'Your son looks amazing!.. Some kids can be so cruel.' Pictured: Mrs Rose with her husband, Grant, daughter Darcie and Preston (left) and just Preston and Darcie (right)
'By the afternoon she was so unhappy she didn't even want to go to her after school club.'
And Donna Marie Sterling pointed out that Preston's choice of The Cat In The Hat was very timely.
She wrote: 'He looks awesome and it would of been Dr Seuss's birthday yesterday!'
Ryan Counsell has been jailed for eight years for trying to join ISIS-linked jihadists
A terrorist who wanted to abandon his wife and child to fight with ISIS-linked jihadists in the Philippines has blamed Brexit as he was jailed for eight years.
Muslim convert Asda worker Ryan Counsell, 28, was seeking an 'idyllic life' under sharia law, Woolwich Crown Court heard.
He was in the advanced stages of planning his trip to fight with terrorist group 'Abu Sayyaf' when he was arrested last July.
Counsell claimed that after Brexit there was increased tension in the Muslim community in Nottingham so he decided to leave.
He was convicted last month of three counts of possessing documents with terrorist material, and one count engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts, after a four week trial.
The jury heard how he spent almost 900 on military-style boots, camouflage clothing, Kevlar boxer shorts and a cheek pad to be attached to the stock of a rifle 'to engage in combat.'
Some was found inside a 'bag for life' from the store where he worked.
Asda worker Counsell had also booked a return ticket from London to Manila and a connecting flight to Zamboanga, 20 miles from Basiland where ISIS-affiliated Abu Sayyaf regularly clash with the Philippine Army.
The Asda worker had bought supplies for the war zone and planned to abandon his pregnant wife and three-year-old daughter in order to join a group called Abu Sayyaf
The group wounded 14 Philippine soldiers today and a German hostage was beheaded by them on Sunday.
The married father-of-two was arrested at Stansted Airport on 11 July while waiting for a flight to Eindhoven in Holland.
Counsell, who worked as a floor assistant at his local supermarket in Nottingham, had booked a week off work and was due to leave for the Philippines two days later.
He was not expecting to return.
His barrister John Kearney said Counsell was 'a bit odd' but not violent or an extremist.
Among the equipment he had stockpiled was Kevlar-lined underpants called 'Blast Boxers'
Mr Kearney said: 'He wanted to leave the UK to live a humble, simple life, in a Muslim community.
'He discussed going to Somalia. He considered going to Bosnia, and he considered the Philippines.
'He wanted to live in a community under sharia law with what he saw as an idyllic way of life.
'After Brexit there were divisions in his community in Nottingham, he was concerned about the way ordinary people were reacting to ordinary Muslims. So with that background he was looking for a different way of life.
'He was convicted on the basis that was what he intended to do but it not something he would have been able to do.'
Counsell had also bought combat knee pads and kevlar underpants, the court was told
Police raided his home after they were alerted to his purchases of military equipment from a website called UKMC Pro Ltd, beginning in August 2014.
On their arrival at his home, Counsell asked: 'Are you the counter-terrorism police?'
They found military and camping equipment and a 'wealth of Islamic extremist material', including copies of the al-Qaeda magazine Inspire, the ISIS version called Dabiq, and lectures by Anwar al-Awlaki, an influential extremist preacher.
Police also found bomb-making instructions, a document of practical advice for travelling to join ISIS and videos showed showing the decapitation of prisoners by terrorists.
'The defendant had a profound and enduring interest in extremist Islam, jihad and the propaganda of Islamic State and other terrorist organisations,' said Dan Pawson-Pounds, prosecuting.
Bomb-making instructions and the equipment for his trip was found at his Nottingham home
Among the electronic documents found were 22 copies of 'Hijrah [migrate] to the Islamic State' from 2015 which provided practical advice for someone wanting to travel to Syria to join ISIS.
The material also included 10 copies of the first edition of the online magazine Inspire, published by al-Qaeda, included an article titled 'Make a bomb in the kitchen of your Mom' which showed how to make a homemade pipe bomb.
Counsell married his wife, Fatima, in May 2012, after meeting her through an Islamic matchmaking service.
Fatima was originally from Somalia and her parents lived in the Netherlands.
Counsell said he did not tell his wife about his plans for the Philippines as she was 'sceptical' about the life he wanted to live.
He claimed his interest in the country was prompted by watching the series 'Lives in the Wild' presented by Ben Fogle, about a man who had moved to the islands.
Police raided his home after a website supplying military equipment tipped them off
The graphic combat videos found on his devices, including one which showed an Al-Qaeda suicide attack on an army base, were part of a 'catalogue of propaganda' which he said he planned to 'tastefully edit' and post online.
Counsell joked in a WhatsApp group conversation with four others on 22 March 2016, the day of the Brussels terrorist attacks: 'I heard in Holland's cafes they're always on high alert.'
But he dismissed his gloating and told the jury: 'We tended to joke about terrorism a lot.
He claimed he was interested in the Philippines after watching the series Lives in the Wild by the TV presenter Ben Fogle
'If someone asks me about terrorism I'm going to tell them I like a bang in the morning too.'
Counsell claimed he downloaded Dabiq and Inspire - the 'official propaganda magazines' of ISIS and Al-Qaeda respectively - because they showed 'their policy and explicit ideology.'
The married father-of-two added: 'It isn't something that's unofficial, this is an official document that shows their ideology and beliefs.'
He was also asked about five videos he kept on crown green bowling, with titles such as 'Bowling Approaches' and 'Bowling Shot Techniques'.
Counsell said: 'I like bowling, so I wanted to try to learn something.'
Judge Andrew Lees told Counsell: 'In those circumstances together with your ongoing interest in Islamic extremism and researches into Abu Sayyaf and Basilan, and the fact that you had reserved a hotel in Zamboanga City, I am sure you would have gone.
'I am prepared to accept that it may have been difficult and personally dangerous for you to join Abu Sayyaf, but, in my judgment there is no doubt that you were intending to seek out and join Abu Sayyaf and participate in their activities.
'How far you would have got or whether you would have come back without fulfilling your intention is difficult for me to assess.'
Counsell, of Nottingham, was sentenced to eight years in jail for count four of engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts, and 18 months served concurrently for three counts of possessing a document containing terrorist information.
An injured puppy who was found dumped in a garbage can has been nursed back to health and is in foster care after her struggle went viral
An injured puppy who was found dumped in a garbage can has been nursed back to health and is in foster care after her struggle went viral.
Ivy was taken to a veterinary hospital in Delano, California last week after being found freezing and screaming in pain with a nasal and skull fracture and her right eye popped out.
Lorin Thomas, a volunteer who was at the hospital that day, posted a graphically heartbreaking video of Ivy in the hopes that someone would come forward with information about who was responsible for the crime.
The video has since been viewed over 200,000 times and has sparked outrage over the fact that someone would leave a puppy to die.
'Personally I don't think that you should have to tell someone that throwing a live puppy in the garbage is wrong but people need to know that there are other options,' Thomas told ABC 23.
Ivy was taken to a veterinary hospital in Delano, California last week after being found freezing and screaming in pain with a nasal and skull fracture and her right eye popped out
Lorin Thomas, a volunteer who was at the hospital that day, posted a graphically heartbreaking video of Ivy
She accompanied Ivy to be dropped off at pound puppy rescue in northern California on Thursday where she'll be cared for by Thomas and Kelli Hopper, who are fostering Ivy until she can be adopted.
After having stitches to close up her eye, she is doing better, but will need long-term support to make a full recovery.
In just a week, however, she has gone from squeals of pain to standing fully upright and even wagging her tail while playing with other dogs.
Thomas said on social media that they do not know if Ivy's medical bill is currently covered, but that donations are encouraged for her care in the future and for all animals that receive vital treatments from the veterinary hospital.
Those wishing to donate can do so by calling Delano Veterinary Hospital at 661-725-8614 and contributing to the Glenda Miller Memorial Fund.
A village in Nanjing has seen a rise in divorce rates as couples split in order to get better compensation for the demolition of their house.
A new hi-tech zone is set to be built in Jiangbei and the local government is compensating couples for their houses.
However residents discovered that if they divorced, one person would be entitled to a 220 square metre house while the other partner would be handed a 70 square metre home plus a handout of 130,000 yuan (15,378).
Citizens wait at the divorce registration centre in Shanghai (File photo)
Couples pose for photos during a group wedding ceremony in Wuhan (File photo)
According to China Daily, the majority of the 160 couples have filed for a divorce. However most of the couples still live together.
One man in his 80s has divorced his partner in order to get better compensation.
Another villager told reporters: 'Everybody is doing this, we will deal with other things later.'
However their efforts may all be in vain.
People line up to register for marriage or divorce in Shanghai (File photo)
Couples participate at a group wedding in Harbin, China (File photo)
According to housing demolition and relocation regulations in the area, if a divorce was issued locally, a couple will have to have been divorced for over five years to get the additional house and payout.
The villagers were advised by a law firm who told them that they would be eligible for the compensation and additional house. The law firm charges 15,000 yuan (1,770) to help couples obtain a divorce.
The demolition team told China Daily that they are aware of people trying to obtain the compensation.
This isn't the first time that people have divorced in order to get more compensation. There have been similar cases in Shanghai.
According to a report published by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, divorce rates are on the rise with four million couples divorcing in 2014.
Grant Muren, 24, was on Thursday sentenced to 20 years in prison for killing his roommate
A murderer convicted of strangling his roommate to death just hours after moving in delivered a rambling, hour-and-40-minute diatribe about Dr Jekyll, Hillary Clinton and Chris Christie as he was jailed for 20 years.
Grant Muren, 24, was on Thursday sentenced for the 2014 killing of his roommate Charles Clark, 55, in Naperville, Illinois, receiving the maximum penalty for his second-degree murder conviction.
The harsh sentence in the suburbs of Chicago followed Muren's rambling testimony at the hearing, in which the killer blamed the victim, judge, and prosecutor for his legal woes, the Chicago Tribune reported.
'There's no getting around it, Charles Clark was a vicious psychopath,' Muren said of the 55-year-old man he moved in with, allegedly had sexual relations with, and killed in the span of eight hours.
Muren launched into a detailed rebuttal and dissection of prior testimony in the case, claiming prosecutor Jim Scaliatine was 'desperate' to exaggerate his criminal history.
At one point, Muren pondered the fictional case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
'Obviously, the guy was a genius, but he had some personal issues,' Muren said. 'The power of being Mr. Hyde was intoxicating.'
The murder took place in this townhouse on a quiet cul-de-sac in Naperville, Illinois in 2014. Muren had just moved in with Charles Clark, 55, when he killed him and tried to burn the house
As the diatribe approached the 45 minute mark, Scaliatine objected to the length of the rambling testimony, but the judge noted that there was no time limit and allowed Muren to continue at leisure.
Muren heaped scorn on Scaliatine, saying the prosecutor 'lied more than Hillary Clinton and is fatter than Chris Christie'.
'So stipulated,' the prosecutor responded in wry deadpan.
The sentencing capped one of the most unusual cases in recent memory for the suburban town 30 miles southwest of Chicago.
In January of 2014, Clark, a self-employed computer specialist, posted a Craigslist ad seeking a roommate for his townhouse on a quiet tree-lined cul-de-sac, the Daily Herald reported.
Muren, who was 21 at the time, responded and moved in, and prosecutors believe the two men were sexually intimate, although Clark had a girlfriend at the time and publicly identified as straight.
Within hours of moving in, Muren beat Clark over the head with a chair or small table and bit the tip of the older man's right thumb off, prosecutors believe.
Clark had been drinking that night, and had some history of violence, according to court testimony.
However it began, the violent struggle ended in Clark's death by strangulation, the autopsy revealed.
Clark's girlfriend found the body on January 22, and noticed a strong odor of gas in the house.
Taking a page from the spy-thriller 'Bourne Identity,' Muren had apparently tried to destroy the murder scene by flooding the townhouse with natural gas from the oven and shoving the lease papers in a toaster oven.
He was arrested the following day during a traffic stop.
At Thursday's sentencing, Judge Brian Telander noted that Muren has refused to accept any responsibility for his crimes throughout the proceedings.
'You truly are your own worst enemy,' Telander told Muren. 'I have not been able to glean a glimmer of remorse or responsibility.'
Though prosecutors had pushed for a first-degree murder conviction, Telander ruled that Muren had believed, unreasonably, that the murder was in self-defense, and convicted him of second-degree murder and aggravated arson in the bench trial.
Illinois sentencing guidelines will make Muren eligible for parole in about nine years.
Mr Kaba (left), 24, was allegedly part of a group of five men who went to a Notting Hill Carnival after-party (inset) in east London in the early hours of August 30. They are suspected of conspiring to murder a 23-year-old rival who was shot on the dance floor at the Oval Space nightclub in Cambridge Heath. The victim was chased out of the nightclub and shot twice by a gunman before being taken to the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel. He was treated for gunshot wounds to both legs, but survived the attack. The four men appeared at Thames Magistrates Court on October 28 charged with conspiracy to murder. The newspaper reported that the prosecution will allege Mr Kaba helped plot the attack and was present at the incident. Mr Kaba, who died in Streatham Hill (right), south London, on September 5, was being followed by an unmarked police car with no lights or sirens turned on in the minutes before the shooting, Inner South London Coroner's Court was told last month.
Alistair Leiper has been jailed after pleading guilty to four counts of child sex offences
A police officer who prowled the web posing as a teenager and encouraged two 14-year-old girls to perform sex acts on Skype has been jailed for two years today.
Alistair Leiper, 37, told one victim he was 17-years-old before asking if she wanted to start a video chat and watch him masturbate on the internet chatting app in April 2014.
The serving officer began his advances by asking the child: 'Do you like older boys? Are you a virgin? How far you been?'
When the girl told him she hadn't 'even kissed a guy' the Leiper said: 'Want to see me w**king?
'Go on, you can finger yourself as you watch.'
In December 2013 the paedophile officer had contacted another girl asking: 'Hi sexy, what you up to?'
When she told him she was with her 15-year-old cousin, he replied: 'Do you want to both show boobs and I will show my d**k?'
Southwark Crown Court heard the youngster told the serving officer: 'Go jump off a cliff.'
Leiper's colleagues contacted the girls' mothers and later discovered three sex tapes on his computer when they raided his home in Streatham, south London, in February 2015.
The disgraced officer was suspended from duty at the Met's Westminster borough since his arrest in August 2015 and has since been thrown out of the force. He was charged in May 2016.
He pleaded guilty to three counts of attempting to engage in a sexual activity in the presence of a child and one count of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity on February 3.
Today, Leiper smiled at Southwark Crown Court as he was jailed for two years and ordered to sign the Sex Offenders' Register for 10 years.
Prosecutor Dingle Clark said: 'The case goes back to February 2015 when police executed a warrant at the defendant's home in southwest London and when they went there they entered and spoke with him.
'As a result of that a laptop computer was seized and it was interrogated and two particular pieces of chat log were found.'
Edmund Gritt, defending, said: 'He is dismissed as a police officer, his time in custody will be inevitably severe for him.'
Leiper was seen arriving at Southwark Crown Court in London today to be sentenced to two years in prison
The court heard Leiper has signed up to the 'Stop It Now' programme which provides 'counselling to enable individuals to address this sort of behaviour to prevent it in the future'.
Mr Gritt added: 'He is a man who could and should be rehabilitated.'
Jailing him for two years, Judge Alistair McCreath said Leiper's attempts to masturbate as the children watched via Skype only failed 'because the children that you tried to expose to this behaviour themselves rejected your offer'.
He continued: 'Such remorse as you expressed was remorse that came extremely late in the process.
'It appears a great deal less genuine than if it came much much earlier.'
Leiper claimed in mitigation he had become 'isolated' at work and was 'stressed' after performing CPR on a man who later died.
Judge McCreath said: 'Your service as a police officer, stained of course by what brings you here today, stained and undermined by it, but other than that was exemplary.'
Referring to the length of time it took to charge Leiper, the judge said: 'The unhappy reality is that there is such a lot of this happening, the use of electronic media, that the resources that are available to deal with it are understandably depleted.'
Leiper, of Tooting, south west London, was jailed for two years for three counts of attempting to engage in a sexual activity in the presence of a child and one count of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.
He must also sign the Sex Offenders' Register for ten years and was served with a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order barring him from unsupervised contact with children and monitoring his internet access and use of devices.
A further count of making indecent photos of a child and one count of attempting to engage in a sexual activity in the presence of a child will lie on file.
A Mexican congressman says Donald Trump's planned wall on the border of the US and Mexico is useless - and he has the selfies to prove it.
Braulio Guerra, a congressman from Queretaro, posted video and photos of himself and a couple of other people on Twitter Thursday casually climbing a 30-foot fence along the border of the US and Tijuana.
He called the proposed wall 'absurd and unnecessary spending ... that does wrong and harms our good neighborliness'.
'I was able to scale it, climb it, and sit myself right here,' Guerra said in the video, according to ABC News. 'It would be simple for me to jump into the United States, which shows that it is unnecessary and totally absurd to build a wall.'
Scroll down for video
Queretaro congressman Braulio Guerra said he climbed this 30-foot fence between Tijuana and the US to show how 'absurd' a wall between the two countries would be
Guerra said he scurried to the top of this 30-foot fence that separated Tijuana from the US
The congressman just happened to meet up with two people who he said were also climbing the fence
Guerro said the wall can be climbed 'in an instant' and said it would be 'simple' for people to climb a new wall
'You can climb it with great ease, one climbs in an instant,' he continued. 'I climbed it in Tijuana, one of the highest parts, even from a distance this looks very complex, but there are young people that go up and down, at all times.'
Mexican congressman Guerra climbed a 30-foot fence to prove a point
Guerra said the two other people sitting on the fence in the photo happened to be climbing the fence as he was there.
Some irritated responders on Twitter suggested this means the US should build a higher wall, or one that is electrified or topped with barbed wire.
Still others questioned whether he had really climbed the fence himself, as the video doesn't show him doing it.
But several people commented that they themselves had also climbed the fence, one person claiming it took him ten minutes.
A US Border Patrol agent drives along the steel wall separating the U.S. (left) from Mexico (right) May 14, 2006 in Nogales, Arizona
Still others were outraged that a politician would take time out of his day to climb a fence.
'Why don't you worry about making your country a place where your citizens want to stay instead of one they [are] desperate to escape?' asked Christopher Lee.
President Trump has said he wants to build a wall along the complete border of the US and Mexico, and that Mexico would pay for it. President has said Mexico will not pay for a wall.
An internal Department of Homeland security report put the cost of a wall at $21billion, far higher than Trump's recent estimate of $12billion, reported CNN Monday.
Morgan Banks, 18, brutally attacked 17-year-old Sophie Smith
A teenager has been jailed for life for beating his girlfriend to death because he wrongly believed she had cheated on him.
Morgan Banks, 18, brutally attacked 17-year-old Sophie Smith, beating a false confession out of her before killing her as he demanded to know names of men she was supposedly sleeping with.
Banks had become paranoid that the couple's month-old son wasn't his and had thought Miss Smith was having an affair with his brother and cousin.
Leeds Crown Court heard Miss Smith suffered a catalogue of horrific injuries, which medics likened to those sustained in a serious road crash or a fall from an extreme height.
She suffered 11 broken ribs, a broken eye socket, broken nose and bruises all over her body, during the attack at her house in Beeston, West Yorkshire in the early hours of October 14.
Michelle Colborne QC, prosecuting, said: 'This is not the first time he had been violent to her.
'There is nothing to support the defendant's contention that the baby was not his.
'He contends she was unfaithful to her and was pregnant with someone else's child.
'He beat her until she agreed and her again until she was unconscious.
'She was in a comatose state for some time before she died.
'She was subjected to a four-hour punishment beating.'
Describing the night of the attack, Ms Colborne said Miss Smith called the emergency services at 12:29am and said 'help me' to an operator before hanging up.
The operator contacted police who called Miss Smith but the teen told them nothing was wrong.
Ms Colborne said that four hours later Banks was spotted in the street covered in blood.
Tragic: Sophie Smith, 17, with boyfriend Morgan Banks and their baby Harrison
Leeds Crown Court heard Miss Smith (pictured) suffered a catalogue of horrific injuries, which medics likened to those sustained in a serious road crash or a fall from an extreme height
She said: 'He was in a frenzied state. He was bare chested and was covered in blood.'
Banks then demanded a passerby call an ambulance before he ran off.
Ms Colborne added: 'Police and paramedics found Sophie Smith lying on the floor of the bedroom.
'She was laid beside the bed with her head closest to the door and was naked apart from a bra round her waist and a duvet covering her lower half.'
The post mortem examination revealed she had died of multiple injuries caused by blunt trauma - blows caused by fists and feet.
Banks was arrested at his grandfather's house at 5.55am.
When interviewed by officers Banks admitted carrying out the attack and said he had kicked her in the head and ribs while she was on the floor and had headbutted her.
Sophie Smith who was murdered by her boyfriend
Ms Colborne said Sophie had got together with Banks when she was 13 and he was 14.
Due to the couple's tumultuous relationships, Miss Smith had been assigned a social worker after she became pregnant with the couple's young son.
She said: 'She [Miss Smith] was torn between the belief his behaviour would change when the baby was born.
'On October 3 Sophie's attitude had changed and that her belief his attitude would change was wrong.
'She said she felt safe at the flat and would dial 999 if he called round.'
Ms Colborne said Banks had a troubled upbringing and was taken into care aged 10 after his dad was jailed for 10 years for beating up his mum.
Banks, who has a substantial criminal record of 30 convictions for 49 offences, was first in court when he was 11.
The court also heard he had been found guilty of assault causing actual bodily harm in his absence.
In a brutal attack Banks bit a man in the face after he was refused a cigarette.
Banks admitted ABH, failure to surrender and murder.
Sentencing Banks to life in prison, with a minimum term of 17 years, the Recorder of Leeds, Peter Collier QC, said: 'You carried out a dreadful assault on her.
'I have no doubt you will live with the memories of what you did to her for the rest of your life.
'Quite clearly this is a case where mental and physical suffering was inflicted on Sophie before she died. It was a savage and dreadful attack. This case is a real tragedy of human relationships.'
A brave girl, four, walked five miles on a frozen river through wolf-infested forest in Siberia to beg for help after her grandmother suddenly died.
Little Saglana Salchak braved chest-deep snow and -24C temperatures to reach her family's nearest neighbours in their remote cattle-breeding outpost close to Mongolia.
She had woken up early and went to to hug her grandmother - her main carer - but realised the 60-year-old woman was 'cold'.
Brave Saglana Salchak walked five miles through treacherous terrain and freezing temperatures to get help after her grandmother died
The frozen river along which the four-year-old walked. Saglana braved chest-deep snow and wolf-infested forest to get help for her blind grandfather
She then woke up her completely blind grandfather who feared his wife was dead.
Not realising it was only 6am and pitch black, he told her to find help by walking along the course of a frozen river in Siberia's remote Tuva region.
Despite the freezing temperatures and the threat of wolves on the route, the heartbroken girl completed her sad mission.
One local said: 'She was lucky not to be killed by wolves as there are many along this route and they often attack cattle.'
It took Saglana three hours to complete her arduous walk, and - close to exhaustion - she told her neighbours: 'It seems my granny is dead.'
Saglana being taken care of in hospital. Doctors confirmed that her 60-year-old grandmother had died of a heart attack
Saglana with her mother Eleanora. The little girl had woken early in the morning to find her grandmother was 'cold'
Map showing the location of Saglana's home near the Mongolian border
The family had a satellite phone and alerted the authorities.
Doctors rushed to the scene but confirmed the grandmother had died of a heart attack.
'Saglana was sent to hospital, but found to be none the worse for her ordeal,' reported The Siberian Times.
The home which Saglana shares with her grandfather is close to the Por-Bajin fortress
Local politicians have lined up to visit her in hospital and praise her bravery.
The home shared with her grandparents lies some 155 miles southeast of Kyzyl, the capital of the Tuva Republic.
The area is exceptionally remote and close to one of Siberia's most mysterious landmarks, the Por-Bajin fortress, a 1,300 year old mountain palace rumoured to have been built 'for a tragic Chinese princess' .
An 18-year-old Connecticut college student has died after falling from the roof of a building that houses a bar.
Deputy Chief Brian Foley says Taylor Lavoie, of East Granby, fell from the roof of the four-story Hartford building at about 12.30am Friday.
She was a student at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain.
The Angry Bull Saloon is on the ground floor of the building, and Foley says it is believed she was at the bar before her fall.
Foley says alcohol was involved, but it's unclear if the victim herself had been drinking.
'They were drinking up on the roof of this establishment and it looks like a fall of some sort,' Foley told WFSB. 'So it is an untimely death so all possibilities exist at this point.'
Taylor Lavoie (above), of East Granby, Connecticut, fell from the roof of the four-story Hartford building at about 12:30am Friday, police said
The Angry Bull Saloon is on the ground floor of the building, and Foley says it is believed she was at the bar before her fall
Foley says the woman fell down a roughly five-foot wide alley between two buildings.
He says whether she simply fell or was the victim of foul play remains under investigation.
The roof of the building has been described by police as 'treacherous'.
While the floors above the bar are vacant, police say that Lavoie climbed to the roof using a staircase from inside the bar.
Lavoie was also reported to have a 'very good' fake ID, which is used by underage teens to illegally procure alcohol.
Lavoie was studying to become a veterinarian, according to The Hartford Courant.
The owner of a local animal hospital said that she had been working there for two years.
Lavoie was studying to become a veterinarian. The owner of a local animal hospital said that she had been working there for two years
Police say Lavoie fell down a roughly five-foot wide alley between two buildings
Police say alcohol was involved, but it's unclear if the victim herself had been drinking
Dr. Peter Korten said that Lavoie was an easygoing person and model employee who loved animals.
'It absolutely wiped out the staff here,' Korten said of the tragic news of her death.
'She was great. It's a horrific loss.'
Police in Hartford notified state authorities last week that the Angry Bull Saloon was serving alcohol to minors, according to the Courant.
Foley says that the bar has been warned in the past about serving alcohol to underage people, according to Fox 61.
The owner of the establishment has voluntarily surrendered his liquor license until late March.
The bar is believed to cater to college students.
On its Facebook page, it advertises a promotion known as 'Thirsty Thursdays' when beers are 25 cents per piece.
The bar is believed to cater to college students. On its Facebook page, it advertises a promotion known as 'Thirsty Thursdays' when beers are 25 cents per piece. The Facebook post includes hashtags of local colleges and universities, including CCSU, Lavoie's school
Interestingly enough, the Facebook post includes hashtags of local colleges and universities, including CCSU, Lavoie's school.
By law, alcohol consumption is legal in the state of Connecticut for those at least 21 years of age.
'Right now we're focused on the untimely death investigation at the same time we have already launched a congruent investigation that would obviously involve the liquor commission,' Foley said.
The state has now launched an investigation.
East Granby Public Schools issued a statement on Friday.
'Taylor Lavoie, the brilliant, beautiful, compassionate and loving daughter of Edward and Karen Lavoie, passed away unexpectedly this morning,' the statement read.
'Taylor was a valued member of the East Granby High School Class of 2016, and she shared her gifts and talents extensively in the school community.'
'Taylor had a beautiful voice and was often the lead in many school plays. She shared her musical talents with the East Granby High School music program and musical theater.'
'In addition to her intellectual prowess, Taylor demonstrated athletic abilities as a member of the East Granby High School basketball team and the highly prized softball team that set records for East Granby High School in the NCCC league.'
President Donald Trump tried to blow a hole in repeated revelations about his associates' ties to Moscow by tweeting a photo of rival Democratic Senator Charles Schumer and Vladimir Putin.
As reports swirled about his own campaign's Russia ties including an undisclosed meeting between son-in-law Jared Kushner and the Kremlin's ambassador to Washington Trump blasted out a photo of Schumer, the Democratic Senate leader.
'We should start an immediate investigation into and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite!' Trump wrote.
Attached was a photo of Schumer and President Vladimir Putin enjoying Krispy Kreme doughnuts and coffee.
HOW SWEET: President Donald Trump went after Democratic Senator Charles Schumer by retweeting this photo of Schumer and Russian President Vladimir Putin
The 2003 photo was taken in New York, as Schumer welcomed Putin for an event commemorating Lukoil's first gas station in Manhattan, Gateway Pundit revealed.
An AP photo included in the post shows the two men smiling over coffee and doughnuts.
Schumer commented at the time: 'When I showed the president of Russia a Krispy Kreme doughnut and he ate it and said it was good, that was one of the more surreal moments Ive had in politics.'
He tweeted back at the president Friday: 'Happily talk re: my contact w Mr. Putin & his associates, took place in '03 in full view of press & public under oath. Would you &your team?'
Trump sent out the tweet attacking Schumer as his own administration was under fire for Russia contacts during a year when Russia was believed to be behind hacking of the presidential election
Schumer responded that he would be happy to discuss his Putin contacts 'under oath. Would you & your team?'
Attorney General Jeff Sessions said he would sit out any decision on prosecutions which could arise from current investigations into whether Russia meddled in the election - but that he had not lied to the Senate
A series of reports have catalogued contacts between Trump associates and Russia's ambassador to the U.S., Sergey Kislyak
Schumer welcomed Putin to New York to promote a new gas station being opened by Lukoil, the Russian oil company
The Trump administration has come under fire for Russia contacts, at a time when the Kremlin was under sanction following the country's invasion of Ukraine.
In 2003, at the time the Schumer meeting occurred, Putin had not yet fully emerged into his role as perpetual adversary to U.S. policy goals. In 2001, President George W. Bush famously said after meeting Putin, 'I found him to be very straightforward and trustworthy. We had a very good dialogue. I was able to get a sense of his soul.'
In the intervening years he cracked down on the free press, helped engineer his departure and return to power, put down a rebellion in Chechnya, and interfered in the politics of its neighbors.
The U.S. intelligence community has concluded that Russia hacked the U.S. elections.
IT'S A GAS: Media and pedestrians gather during the opening of Lukoil's gasoline station September 26, 2003 in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. Lukoil, a Russian oil company, acquired Getty Petroleum Marketing Inc. and its 1, 300 stations in November 2000
FOREIGN INVESTMENT: Sen. Charles Schumer met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at an event commemorating a new Lukoil service station
Russian President Vladimir Putin (C) and Lukoil President Vagit Alekperov (L) listen as Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) (R) gestures as he speaks about U.S.-Russian relations during the opening of Lukoil's gasoline station September 26, 2003 in New York
Schumer has called for a special prosecutor to investigate Trump Russia ties and whether an investigation has already been compromised. He has called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign, and was among the first to call for Sessions to recuse himself from any investigation something Sessions did on Thursday in a dramatic announcement.
'Because the Department of Justice should be above reproach, for the good of the country, Attorney General Sessions should resign,' Schumer said.
In addition to Kushner, former national security advisor Mike Flynn met with Russia's ambassador, as did attorney general Jeff Sessions, a key endorser and campaign advisor for Trump.
The Daily Caller reported at least 22 visits by ambassador Sergey Kislyak to the White House during the Obama administration.
The number of advisors linked to President Donald Trump who met with Russia's ambassador to the U.S. has grown to five with two more acknowledging the contacts Thursday night.
Carter Page, who Trump identified as among his first foreign policy advisors, acknowledged the contact on MSNBC Thursday night when he didn't deny meeting with Kisklak.
Kislyak's role as the Kremlin's eyes and ears in Washington exploded onto the scene after it was revealed he met with a number of officials in Trump's inner circle during the campaign and after Trump won the presidency.
'I'm not going to deny that I talked with him," Page told MSBNC's Chris Hayes.
Deputy White House press secretary Sarah Sanders also brought up the Schumer incident when asked about Trump associates meeting with the Russian ambassador at a conference held during the Republican National Convention in Cleveland.
'Please explain to me how volunteers meeting at a conference where nearly 80 ambassadors attended is a story,' Sanders said.
'I guess its kind of lost on me where that would be newsworthy in any capacity. I mean Chuck Schumer sitting and having drinks with Putin and thats not a news story, but apparently a volunteer for a campaign bumping into one at a conference where theres again dozens of other ambassadors is newsworthy,' she continued.
Then she defended Sessions meeting with the ambassador, something she said occurred in his 'official capacity.'
'As a senator he obviously in his official capacity met with the ambassador. Again, that was as a senator not as a campaign official, so again, to try to muddy the waters in that way is I think pretty unfair to the attorney general,' she said.
Former President George W. Bush said on Thursday that he has no regrets about ordering the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan.
'I think it was the right decision,' Bush told NBC's Sunday TODAY show when asked about wounded veterans.
Bush is now working to promote the welfare of wounded war veterans.
He has been making the rounds on media in recent days to tout his latest undertaking - an exhibition of his oil paintings depicting US military veterans.
'I regret they got hurt,' the former president said of the veterans.
'I was heavy-hearted when I made the decision to both go into Afghanistan and Iraq because I knew there would be some dire consequences.'
The entire interview with Bush is scheduled to air this Sunday, March 5.
The US initially began to target Afghanistan almost one month after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
Former President George W. Bush said on Thursday that he has no regrets about ordering the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan
The Americans began bombing targets belonging to the Taliban, the movement in power in Afghanistan, which harbored Al-Qaeda and its leader, Osama bin Laden.
A year after the Afghanistan campaign began, Congress voted to authorize the use of force against Iraq.
On March 20, 2003, US-led forces invade Iraq from Kuwait to oust Saddam Hussein. The US-led effort crushed the Iraqi military and chased Saddam from power in a span of weeks.
Less than two months later, Bush had triumphantly declared that 'major combat operations in Iraq have ended' and that 'in the battle of Iraq, the United States and our allies have prevailed.'
The US initially began to target Afghanistan almost one month after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks (above)
On March 20, 2003, US-led forces invade Iraq from Kuwait to oust Saddam Hussein. The US-led effort crushed the Iraqi military and chased Saddam from power in a span of weeks. US troops are seen above toppling the statue of Saddam in central Baghdad on April 9, 2003
As he spoke aboard the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, a banner behind him stated, 'Mission Accomplished.'
But US forces had difficulty stabilizing the country as the newly installed government was beset by a violent insurgency.
As US and Iraqi casualties mounted and the death toll skyrocketed, the war's popularity dipped.
By the end of Bush's two terms in office, the president's approval rating declined to 22 percent, according to CBS News, making him one of the least liked commanders-in-chief to leave office in the nation's history.
Since the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts began, at least 8,000 US and allied soldiers have died, according to CNN.
Tens of thousands of civilians are believed to have been killed in Afghanistan since 2001, according to the United Nations.
The civilian death toll in Iraq is estimated to be somewhere between 170,000 and 190,000, according to Iraq Body Count.
A large flotilla of NATO warships arrived at Plymouth today for a week of advanced warfare training conducted by the Royal Navy.
The small fleet consists of nine frigates and nine countermeasure ships from around the world including Belgium, Spain, Germany and The Netherlands.
The Norwegian HNOMS Roald Amundsen was the first vessel to cruise into Devonport, arriving at 7am on Friday morning.
Dutch warship HNLMS Schiedham arriving into Devonport on Friday morning
HNOMS Hinnoy in the port. The flotilla consists of nine frigates and nine countermeasure ships
And crew members expected to meet with Royal Navy commanders.
The ships, from Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 (SNMG1) and Standing NATO Mine Counter-Measures Group One (SNMCMG1), are expected to stay in Plymouth for a week.
During this time they will be taking part in the Navy's Flag Officer Sea Training.
Norwegian Commodore Ole Morten Sandquist, who is leading SNMG1, told the Plymouth Herald: 'Our mission is first and foremost to provide NATO with a continuous maritime capability for operations and other activities in peacetime and periods of crisis and conflict.
'During the upcoming period, we will support Flag Officer Sea Training as a mock opposing force the ships undertaking their certification training.
Belgian Frigate BNS Louise-Marie from Standing NATO Maritime Group 1
German Tanker FGS Spessart. The NATO ships are expected to stay in the area for about a week
'We are looking forward to working closely with our allies in an advanced warfare training environment.'
Vessels were still arriving at the port on Friday evening with delays expected to ferry services across the River Tamar.
SNMG1 is one of four standing naval forces, operating mainly in the North Atlantic.
Kaela Eads, of Bristol, Tennessee, said she was just finishing her shift at a fast-food restaurant in Bristol when a woman ran up to the drive-thru window holding a small child
A teenage fast food drive-thru worker who learned CPR at school learned the training to save the life of an unresponsive toddler.
Kaela Eads, of Bristol, Tennessee, said she was just finishing her shift at a fast-food restaurant when a woman ran up to the drive-thru window holding a small child on Tuesday night.
The 18-year-old said that the woman told the workers at Pal's that her son wasn't breathing and asked if anyone knew CPR. Eads said instinct took over and she ran outside to help.
She told the Herald Courier: 'We were looking out the drive-thru window and saw a woman pulling up to the back dumpsters'.
Eads explained that it was pouring rain, and that with no umbrella the mother ran frantically up to the window to ask if anyone knew CPR.
Darrell Mears, a Bristol Tennessee Fire Department paramedic told the Bristol Herald Courier that the CPR administered by Eads saved the child's life.
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CCTV footage shows the moment that Kaela Eads (pictured, wearing purple) administered CPR to a toddler who had stopped breathing. His mother is pictured standing, and the toddler can be seen on the ground
Eads said that it was pouring rain, but that when she heard the mother ask if anyone knew CPR instinct took over and she ran outside to help
She explained that she quickly put the toddler on the ground, and began administering CPR.
Several other Pal's employees an the boy's mother stayed near the two while he continued to check for vitals and perform chest compressions.
Eads said that administering the CPR she was hoping for a miracle, and that she is considering a career in the medical field
Eads said that she was hoping for a miracle, and that after about two minutes the compressions became tighter.
She told the Courier that she could tell there were faint breaths.
She administered CPR until the paramedics arrived and brought the child to the hospital.
Eads said her instincts and confidence kicked in, and that she doesn't consider herself a hero.
'It definitely was an adrenaline rush. I had only performed CPR on a dummy and this was a real child.
'I said to myself that i was going to try and get him the help he needed because I didn't want to have to come face to face with the inevitable that he could pass away,' she told the Courier.
Eads visited the hospital with her family, and took the time to pray.
She says she's considering a career in the medical field.
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Any kid can own a Marine One replica toy, but little Joseph Kushner is one of the few lucky tots to get a chance to ride on the real thing.
Ivanka Trump's three-year-old son brought along his toy version of the presidential helicopter on Friday, as the Kushners boarded Marine One on the White House lawn.
The toddler held onto the toy in his left hand while Grandpa Donald held onto his right hand, leading him and sister Arabella into the aircraft, his daughter and her husband following.
The family then took a quick flight over to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, where Air Force One was waiting to take them to Florida.
Three-year-old Joseph Kushner clutched a mini Marine One model toy as he boarded the real thing on Friday
Joseph is Ivanka Trump's middle son with husband Jared Kushner, a white house advisor. He is pictured here with his grandpa
President Donald Trump led Joseph and sister Arabella out to Marine One on the White House lawn on Friday afternoon
President Donald Trump then helped his grandchildren to board the presidential helicopter on the South Lawn of the White House
First daughter Ivanka later posted a picture of the adorable moment her children boarded on Instagram
Ivanka and her husband followed the president and their two eldest children onto the helicopter
Noticeably missing from the pictures of the family getting onto Air Force One was Ivanka and Jared's youngest son, Theo, but Ivanka carried him out of the plane after they reached their final destination of Palm Beach.
First, the Trumps flew to Orlando, where the president visited St. Andrew Catholic School.
Trump visited the school in order to push his education agenda, which focuses on school choice.
He is spending the rest of the weekend with his family in Palm Beach, at the 'winter White House' Mar-a-Lago.
The Kushners' youngest son Theo was nowhere in sight as the family got on Air Force One to
The Kushners joined the president for a flight down to Florida, where he visited a private school in Orlando
The family will be spending the rest of the weekend at Trump's resort Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach
This is the fourth trip that Trump has made to Florida during his six weeks in the White House
Jared Kushner carries son Joseph as Ivanka and eldest daughter Arabella walk up the stares onto Air Force One
Joseph Kushner, center, hops into the presidential limo with his mother Ivanka Trump and President Donald Trump after arriving on Air Force One at Palm Beach
He started his tour of St. Andrew 's with a visit to a fourth-grade classroom, where he shook hands with students and talked about their history lesson.
He then joked to one girl who said she wanted to own her own business that she's 'gonna make a lot of money. But don't run for politics.'
Trump was joined on the tour by Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, Florida Senator Marco Rubio and Florida Gov. Rick Scott.
Teachers' unions were quick to criticize the visit, saying it shows Trump's hostility toward public schools and his intention to turn education into a profit-making industry.
After the school visit, Trump and his family got back on Air Force One and jetted down to Palm Beach.
Ivanka Trump, along with her husband Jared Kushner, disembark Air Force One with their children at Palm Beach International Airport in West Palm Beach
Jared Kushner walks down the stairs of Air Force One with Arabella Kushner, left, and Joseph Kushner, right, as his wife Ivanka Trump carries Theodore Kushner
Ivanka Trump steps off Air Force One with her son Theodore upon arrival in West Palm Beach, Florida, on March 3
The family later got back on Air Force One to jaunt down to Palm Beach, where they are spending the rest of the weekend. This time their youngest son Theo was seen in mom Ivanka's arms
Ivanka and her husband broke out in smiles as they arrived in Florida, holding onto Arabella
Ivanka blew a kiss after landing in Palm Beach on Friday
The family (Ivanka Trump and her family, husband Jared Kushner and children Joseph and Arabella Kushner left, and President Trump right) landed in Orlando just after 1pm Eastern Time on Friday
Ivanka Trump looks at her daughter Arabella as US President Donald Trump meets with parents and teachers at a school
The Keystone XL pipeline will not be constructed solely with U.S. manufactured steel despite President Donald Trump' decree that all future oil transportation projects would be built with American-made products.
Trump's administration is exempting Keystone company TransCanada from the clause on the grounds that the pipeline project Barack Obama's administration rejected was already under development.
'Since this one is already currently under construction, the steel is already literally sitting there, it would be hard to go back,' White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Friday.
The Keystone XL pipeline will not be constructed using U.S. manufactured steel despite President Donald Trump' decree that all future oil transportation projects would be built with American-made products
The president intimated on several occasions that the Keystone XL pipeline, as well as the Dakota Access pipeline, would be made will U.S. steel, creating thousands of manufacturing jobs.
He signed executive orders greenlighting the State Department to continue talks at the same time he issued a mandate that 'all new pipelines' be produced in the United States.
Press Secretary Sean Spicer said that the time that Trump was commanding his not-yet-confirmed commerce secretary, Wilbur Ross, to do a 'study looking into building the Keystone and Dakota Access pipelines, as well as any other future pipeline with U.S. made steel and pipe and accessories.'
Now the White House says the Trump order will not apply to the TransCanada project because the Keystone pipeline is already under construction.
'Well the way that executive order is written...its specific to new pipelines or those that are being repaired,' Sanders told reporters flying to Florida with the president on Air Force One.
'But I know that everything moving forward would fall under that executive order.'
The first two phases of the Keystone Pipeline project, and most of the third, are complete. But the fourth section, the XL portion, was rejected by Obama's State Department.
After years of delays, Congress passed legislation at the beginning of 2015 bypassing the executive branch, but Obama vetoed it. Later in the year he relied on a State Department claim that the pipeline was not in the national interest to indefinitely halt construction.
Trump's orders directed his administration to expedite new reviews of the Keystone and Dakota Access pipelines.
Trump insinuated that both pipelines would be made with American-manufactured steel at a Feb. 23 meeting with industry leaders, including U.S. Steel CEO Mario Longhi (far right)
A Jan. 24 order also instructed the secretary of Commerce to 'develop a plan under which all new pipelines, as well as retrofitted, repaired, or expanded pipelines, inside the borders of the United States, including portions of pipelines, use materials and equipment produced in the United States, to the maximum extent possible and to the extent permitted by law.'
Trump told Longhi: 'We put you heavy into the pipeline business because we approved, as you know, the Keystone Pipeline and Dakota. But they have to buy -- meaning, steel, so Ill say U.S. Steel -- but steel made in this country and pipelines made in this country'
'I am very insistent that if were going to build pipelines in the United States, the pipe should be made in the United States,' Trump said as he put his name on it. 'Companies are going to have to sort of gear up.'
Trump said too much pipeline is being purchased from other countries.
'From now on were going to start making pipeline in the United States,' he pledged. 'Its going to put a lot of workers, a lot of steelworkers back to work.'
Holding the signed document up, Trump announced, 'We will build our own pipeline, we will build our own pipes. Thats what it has to do with. Like we used to in the old days.'
At an on-camera briefing that day Spicer specifically stated that the memo directs 'the Commerce secretary to lead a study looking into building the Keystone and Dakota Access pipelines, as well as any other future pipeline with U.S. made steel and pipe and accessories.
'This is the first step, and the president really delivered on his campaign promise to put American steel back at the backbone of the U.S. economy,' Spicer said. 'We're going to rebuild our infrastructure, and we're going to do it with American workers and with American resources.'
Since then, Trump has twice insinuated that both pipelines would be made with American-manufactured steel.
On Tuesday Trump bragged in his joint address, 'We have cleared the way for the construction of the Keystone and Dakota Access Pipelines thereby creating tens of thousands of jobs. And I've issued a new directive that new American pipelines be made with American steel.'
He directly linked the memo to the pipelines during a meeting with industry leaders, including U.S. Steel CEO Mario Longhi, on Feb. 23.
'And youre going to be doing pipelines now. You know that, right? We put you heavy into the pipeline business because we approved, as you know, the Keystone Pipeline and Dakota,' Trump told Longhi. 'But they have to buy -- meaning, steel, so Ill say U.S. Steel -- but steel made in this country and pipelines made in this country.'
Longhi replied, '100 percent, Mr. President. Well be there.'
Trump then added, for emphasis, 'So the pipe is coming from the U.S.'
Most people giving up cigarettes tends to opt for nicotine patches or gum.
But one supermarket in Yeovil has suggested a risque alternative to get rid of the bad habit.
Tesco Extra in Somerset placed its condoms under the 'smoking alternatives' section.
Tesco Extra is Somerset offered condoms as part of their smoking alternatives. Joel Belbin, 28, spotted the sign which seemed to encourage the risque alternative to giving up cigarettes
Joel Belbin, 28, spotted the sign which seems to encourage customers to swap one cigarettes for sex.
Former jockey Joel uploaded the hilarious photo to social media, with the caption: 'Love a trip to Tesco #EveryLittleHelps.
He said: 'I was just going to buy some vitamins and just looked across and there was a smoking alternatives sign above some condoms.
'If sex helps you stop smoking, I would have stopped a long time ago.'
Joel gave up smoking after 14 years a few months ago but said he never tried condoms to help him quit.
The photo of the sign in a Tesco in Yeovil, Somerset has sent become a Twitter hit.
Henry Chibueze, 36, who was responsible for killing up to 200 people, was busted out of police custody in January
A Nigerian mass murderer dubbed 'the Vampire' has been killed in a dramatic shootout with police.
Henry Chibueze, 36, was responsible for killing up to 200 people in a vicious campaign of kidnap and murder, which he began at the tender age of 11.
Following his death, the killer's body was paraded through the streets as crowds gathered to watch.
One onlooker cried out: 'Look at you now. You will go to hellfire', as the murderer's corpse went past.
The ruthless killer's victims include an ex-girlfriend, who he killed by storming her house in the Nigerian capital Lagos, murdering her and six children.
Chibueze had been in police custody, but was busted out in January by members of his brutal gang.
He went into hiding in the south of the country, but was eventually tracked down to dense forest in Rivers state.
Officers displayed his corpse on a white sheet next to surviving gang members who had been taken into custody
He was engaged police in a gun battle, which culminated in his death on Thursday morning.
Officers displayed his corpse on a white sheet next to surviving gang members who had been taken into custody.
They then dragged his body through the streets, parading their victory over the notorious killer.
'The terror, fear and anxiety caused by Vampire's escape is now a thing of the past,' Chief Superintendent Jimoh Moshood said.
The El Salvadorian criminal enterprise MS-13 which saw two of its members sport sickening smiles in court for the 'satanic' kidnap and murder of two female teens in Houston is estimated to have between 10,000 and 20,000 members nationwide.
MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, is believed to have a presence in 46 states according to an independent study done by University of Pennsylvania.
The gang is thought to be behind a string of murders and violent crimes although the exact figures are not known.
Thirteen alleged members, ten of whom are illegal immigrants, were arrested in connection to seven slayings in Long Island over the last year.
The latest murders have begun to push into the public eye the decades of evil perpetuated by the group - and the terror of those living among it which sees female members inducted by being gang raped.
The first and only criminal organization in the United States to be named as 'transnational' by the FBI, MS-13 operates on the motto of 'Kill, Rape, Control,'
MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha has between 10,000 and 20,000 members nationwide, and have a presence in 46 states
Miguel Alvarez-Flores (right) smiles and waves at news cameras in Houston court on Wednesday, as the gang leader known as 'Diabolico' and his partner 18-year-old Diego Hernandez-Rivera (left) faced charges of aggravated kidnapping and murder
The MS-13 is the first and only criminal organization in the United States to be named as 'transnational' by the FBI and operates on the motto of 'Kill, Rape, Control,' Massachusetts Attorney Carmen Ortiz said.
The group was started nearly 20 years ago in Los Angeles after millions of immigrants from El Salvador came to the United States after a violent civil war left over 100,000 dead.
The gang has since spread all over the country, and are known widely as the best killers - due to their exceedingly brutal weapon of choice, a machete.
The group was started nearly 20 years ago in Los Angeles after millions of immigrants from El Salvador came to the United States after a violent civil war left over 100,000 dead
They have since spread all over the country, and are known widely as the best killers - due to their exceedingly brutal weapon of choice, a machete
Weapons on display at the U.S. Attorney's office following the arrests of gang members in Boston, in 2016, when 56 members of the MS-13 gang were charged on murder-related crimes
WHO ARE THE MS-13? The ultra-violent street gang MS-13 was the first to be designated as an international criminal group. With as many as 20,000 members in 46 states, the gang has expanded far beyond its initial roots. Members are accused of major crimes including murder, kidnapping, prostitution, drug smuggling and human trafficking. Major roundups of MS-13 members have taken place across the country since the early 2000s. In Charlotte, N.C., 53 gang members were arrested as part of Operation Fed Up, which targeted MS-13 members. In 2016, 58 members of MS-13 were rounded up as part of 'Operation Mean Streets'. Previously, two of their most notable killings include stabbing to death a federal witness in 2004 and chopping the hands off of a 16-year-old boy in 2005. Advertisement
The two young women killed by MS-13 in Long Island, Nisa Mickens, 15, and Kayla Cuevas, 16, were beat with bats and hacked with machetes so severely that their bodies were unrecognizable. They were both students at Brentwood High School.
On Wednesday, gang leader Miguel Angel Alvarez-Flores, 22, who also goes by 'Diabolico,' and 18-year-old Diego Alexan Hernandez-Rivera appeared in Houston court where they laughed, smiled and waved to cameras while facing charges of aggravated kidnapping and murder.
Prosecutors said the two kidnapped a 14-year-old girl after she left school around February 2, holding her in an apartment where she was raped by a gang member.
Authorities say she was held against her will there for two weeks, given drugs and alcohol to keep her disoriented, and sexually assaulted by some of the men.
She also said she was held down while Flores tattooed a giant grim reaper from her knee to her foot, the Houston Chronicle reported.
Nisa Mickens, 15, (left) Kayla Cuevas, 16, (right) from Long Island, New York, were were ambushed by a carload of other teens on September 13 and killed. Thirteen members of the MS-13 gang were arrested on Thursday in connection with the slayings
Two known MS-13 gang members, formerly of El Salvador, Miguel Alvarez-Flores, left, and Diego Hernandez-Rivera appear in court in Houston on Thursday for the murder of one young woman and kidnapping of another
The gang operates by targeting children as young as eight in urban areas heavily populated with Central American immigrants.
They use a complex system of identifying at-risk youths, usually who have difficult home-lives, to target, exploit, and turn them into killers.
Those who become part of the gang must first be 'jumped in,' which includes a savage beating for 13 seconds by all members of the gang.
Sin Nombre, a film which documented the reality of MS-13 gang members, showed the induction of a 13-year-old boy named 'Smiley,' who was picked up in Boston in 2016 when 56 members of the gang were arrested
If the hopeful inductee survives, then they will be welcomed with 'open arms,' according to an independent study done by University of Pennsylvania researcher Albert De Amicis.
Brenda Paz was a criminal informant for the FBI. She gave first-hand insight to authorities that allowed a better understanding of MS-13's complex operations
To build respect from fellow gang members, new inductees are encouraged to execute 'chavalas' - who are enemies of MS-13 and often rival gang member.
Sin Nombre, a film which documented the reality of MS-13 gang members, showed the induction of a 13-year-old boy named 'Smiley,' who was picked up in Boston in 2016 when 56 members of the gang were arrested.
In a particularly graphic scene, another gang member holds Smiley's hand steady while he shoots a chavala in the head. The gang leader then fed the victim's entrails to his dog.
In the case of the two Brentwood high school girls, Robert L. Capers, the United States attorney for the Eastern District of New York, told the New York Times how Kayla Cuevas had been 'feuding' with gang members at school and on social media.
It's possible they could have viewed her as a chavala and an outlet for retribution - and an opportunity for a new member to prove their stripes.
Women can also be inducted into the gang by being jumped in or 'sexed in,' which generally carries a lower social status.
Being 'sexed in' entails being raped by every member in the gang until they are sexually satisfied.
Many girls who undergo this horrific torture end up prostituting themselves for the gang across the country, according to Brenda Paz, who was a criminal informant for the FBI. She gave first-hand insight to authorities in the early 2000's that allowed a better understanding of their complex operations.
After being exposed as a 'rat,' she was stabbed to death on the alleged orders of her ex-lover Dennis Rivera, who was an imprisoned former gang leader. She was 17 years old and four months pregnant. He was later acquitted for the crime.
After being exposed as a 'rat,' Brenda was stabbed to death on the alleged orders of her ex-lover Dennis Rivera, who was an imprisoned former gang leader. She was 17 years old and four months pregnant. Rivera was later acquitted for her murder. This knife was shown preceding a news conference in Boston after 58 MS-13 members were arrested
To build respect from fellow gang members, new inductees are encouraged to execute 'chavalas' - who are enemies of MS-13 and often rival gang member
MS-13 has also reportedly been contracted by El Chapo to aid in his drug war and low-level distribution. De Amicis' research detailed statements that MS-13 and other Central American gangs have attempted to expand their own drug routes through collaborations with Mexican gangs like Los Zetas and the Sinaloa Federation drug cartel.
In addition to their lethal presence in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, MS-13 is also firmly rooted in their home of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Here in the US, Long Island, specifically Brentwood, seems to be receiving the brunt of MS-13's deadly force. Eleven gang killings in Suffolk County last year alone were attributed to MS-13.
Tensions have reached a breaking point between parents and school officials, as the recent deaths of Nisa Mickens and Kayla Cuevas have devastated the already gang-torn community.
In addition to their lethal presence in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, MS-13 is also firmly rooted in their home of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua
Evelyn Rodriguez, mother of Kayla Cuevas, 16, stops to talk members of the press gathered outside U.S. District Court Thursday, March 2
They worry that the increase of illegal immigrants from across the country's borders have indeed brought in a new wave of increasingly violent gang members.
'There's been a huge influx, to be honest with you,' said Ray Mayo, the president of the Brentwood Association of Concerned Citizens.
'It seems like a whole new set of gang members who have stirred the pot up.'
For El Salvadorian residents in Brentwood, it brings back old feelings of terror from the country's civil war that sparked their immigration two decades ago.
One woman who wished to be unnamed told the New York Times: 'It makes me feel bad that people think this of all Salvadorans,'
'Violence was the reason I left when they killed my brother. And now we are experiencing the same violence.'
The person who Facebook live-streamed a man after he was shot at a motel will not be charged in the incident.
North Carolina authorities say Facebook helped them track down the person who filmed Calvin Louis Blackshire Jr. suffering from a gunshot wound at a Fayetteville Motel 6 on January 19. He died the next morning at the hospital.
But that person will not be charged in the incident because they were not involved in the shooting and there is no law against filming an injured person instead of getting help.
It's something that the victim's mother, Pamela Blackshire, had a hard time understanding when she spoke at a news conference on Thursday.
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Calvin Louis Blackshire Jr. (pictured) was shot at Motel 6 in Fayetteville, North Carolina on January 19 and died the next day
A bystander filmed Blackshire while he lay dying at the motel instead of getting help
The victim's mother, Pamela Blackshire, says she can't understand why someone would be so heartless
'I just want to know who in the world with any kind of decency would do something like that?' his mother said. 'Its a shame they couldnt be arrested for watching someone dying and not assisting.'
She said of the video: 'You could see people standing over my son, taking pictures, as if he was on a slideshow.'
The video has since been removed from Facebook. Facebook helped police identify the person who took the video, and police interviewed him or her. Police say the person was not involved in the murder and let the person go without charges.
Police continued to hunt for the person or persons responsible for killing Blackshire.
They believe the 27-year-old went to meet someone at the Motel 6 on Cedar Creek Road that night, and ended up getting robbed since his cellphone and shoes were stolen.
The person who filmed Blackshire dying will not be charged. Blackshire pictured on left in a picture with his son. His 1-year-old son is pictured on the right
But they aren't sure whether he was shot at the time of the robbery or after, or who he was meeting with.
At some point, the man or woman who shot the Facebook live video came across the man's body and started Facebook live-streaming the scene for about 10 minutes.
Blackshire died the next morning, after being transported to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. It's unclear who got help for the man.
His death came as a shock to his family. He leaves behind a 1-year-old son.
'He was a hard-working, young man,' his mother said. 'He didnt get into any kind of trouble and he never gave us any kind of problems.'
Nigel Farage received an 'honorary knighthood' in a bizarre stunt on the Kremlin-backed news channel Russia Today.
Farage, fresh from addressing his feud with MP Douglas Carswell, dropped to one knee to let a young 'Majesty' knight him.
The former UKIP leader was on Russia Today for an interview with host Sam Delaney.
Delaney said that he was giving Nigel a knighthood because it was, 'the one thing that we feel that you have been dreaming of secretly all your life'.
He didn't stop their either. Delaney also made Farage 'honourary British ambassador to America' and 'honourary MP for South Thanet'.
But the segment takes a turn for the awkward when the little girl says to Farage: 'My mummy says you hate foreigners.'
Farage and Delaney do their best to laugh off the incident, waving their hands and shaking their heads.
Farage was in good spirits as he kneeled to receive his honorary knighthood from Russia Today
The moment became awkward when the young girl says: 'My mummy says you hate foreigners'
Delaney says: 'You're not supposed to say that, that's very naughty!'
Nigel quickly regains his composure and replies: 'The Queen has to be non-political!'
The stunt comes after allegations that UKIP MP Douglas Carswell blocked an attempt to get Nigel Farage a knighthood.
Nigel laughs off the awkward faux pax, reminding the young Queen that she can't be political
The former UKIP leader is in the middle of a bitter row with UKIP MP Douglas Carswell
In an email obtained by the Daily Telegraph between Carswell and former UKIP leader Malcolm Pearson, Carswell says they could 'try angling to get Nigel and OBE' for 'services to headline writers'.
There has been much speculation as to whether a knighthood is in-keeping with Farage's 'anti-establishment' politics.
President Donald Trump forcefully went after both prongs of the Democratic congressional leadership, demanding investigations of both congressional Demoratic leaders after photos purported to show their own Russia ties.
It wasn't immediately clear if the president was serious in his call for an investigation of his rivals. At the moment, it is his administration's own contacts with Russia, and Russia's alleged election hacking, that is the subject of investigations by the FBI and the House and Senate intelligence committees.
'I hereby demand a second investigation, after Schumer, of Pelosi for her close ties to Russia, and lying about it,' Trump tweeted Friday afternoon.
Earlier, Trump went after Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer after a photo surfaced of Schumer and Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2003. The two pols were enjoying donuts during an event for the opening of a Russian-owned gas station in Manhattan.
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President Trump demanded an 'investigation' of House minority leader Nancy Pelosi after a photo emerged showing her seated at a table with the Russian ambassador to the U.S.
President Donald Trump demanded an 'immediate' investigation of House minority leader Nancy Pelosi, after she said she hadn't met the current Russian ambassador, only to be revealed to have met him in a 2010 photo
'We should start an immediate investigation into and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite!' Trump wrote.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi appeared to give a gift to the Trump White House, which has been sent reeling by reports of Trump's Russia ties, when she fielded a question about at a Politico interview Friday about whether she had ever met the current Russian ambassador, Sergey Kisliak.
On Thursday, Attorney General Jeff Sessions recused himself from any investigations involving the presidential election after it was revealed he twice met the ambassador during the campaign.
'Not with this Russian ambassador, no,' was Pelosi's response.
Within hours, a photo surfaced showing Pelosi seated around the same table as the peripatetic ambassador.
It was during a 2010 meeting in the Capitol, where the ambassador accompanied then-president Dmitri Medvedev, who was considered a modernizer in between President Vladimir Putin's two stints in power.
She was accompanied by then-House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland. Also attending was Sergey Lavrov, who is Russia's foreign minister.
NOW LET ME THINK ... House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said Friday she hadn't met with the current Russian ambassador, only to be exposed in a seven-year old photo to have met him
The meeting was publicly acknowledged, and happened a day after Medvedev met with President Obama, and happened long before Russia was alleged to have hacked the U.S. elections.
But it's emergence was just the latest evidence that Russia's ambassador cultivated extensive contacts with multiple facets of the U.S. government and power structure, from both parties and that not everyone either disclosed or remembered those ties.
Pelosi's spokesman, Drew Hammill, told Politico, which published the photo, that Pelosi had meant she'd never met solo with the ambassador.
'Of course, that's what she meant,' said Hammill. 'She has never had a private one-on-one with him.'
HOW SWEET: President Donald Trump went after Democratic Senator Charles Schumer by retweeting this photo of Schumer and Russian President Vladimir Putin
THIRD TIME'S A CHARM: Trump tweeted and then deleted his tweet twice before getting the spelling right, while visiting a Florida school with his Education secretary
Earlier, Trump tried to blow a hole in repeated revelations about his associates' ties to Moscow by tweeting a photo of rival Democratic Senator Charles Schumer and Vladimir Putin.
As reports swirled about his own campaign's Russia ties including an undisclosed meeting between son-in-law Jared Kushner and the Kremlin's ambassador to Washington Trump blasted out a photo of Schumer, the Democratic Senate leader.
'We should start an immediate investigation into and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite!' Trump wrote.
Attached was a photo of Schumer and President Vladimir Putin enjoying Krispy Kreme doughnuts and coffee.
The 2003 photo was taken in New York, as Schumer welcomed Putin for an event commemorating Lukoil's first gas station in Manhattan, Gateway Pundit revealed.
An AP photo included in the post shows the two men smiling over coffee and doughnuts.
Schumer commented at the time: 'When I showed the president of Russia a Krispy Kreme doughnut and he ate it and said it was good, that was one of the more surreal moments I've had in politics.'
He tweeted back at the president Friday: 'Happily talk re: my contact w Mr. Putin & his associates, took place in '03 in full view of press & public under oath. Would you &your team?'
LET'S TALK: Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov, Russian Federation president Dmitry Medvedev (R) at a meeting with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California. The photo is credited to a photographer with the Russian TASS agency
Trump sent out the tweet attacking Schumer as his own administration was under fire for Russia contacts during a year when Russia was believed to be behind hacking of the presidential election
Schumer responded that he would be happy to discuss his Putin contacts 'under oath. Would you & your team?'
Attorney General Jeff Sessions said he would sit out any decision on prosecutions which could arise from current investigations into whether Russia meddled in the election - but that he had not lied to the Senate
A series of reports have catalogued contacts between Trump associates and Russia's ambassador to the U.S., Sergey Kislyak
Schumer welcomed Putin to New York to promote a new gas station being opened by Lukoil, the Russian oil company
The Trump administration has come under fire for Russia contacts, at a time when the Kremlin was under sanction following the country's invasion of Ukraine.
In 2003, at the time the Schumer meeting occurred, Putin had not yet fully emerged into his role as perpetual adversary to U.S. policy goals. In 2001, President George W. Bush famously said after meeting Putin, 'I found him to be very straightforward and trustworthy. We had a very good dialogue. I was able to get a sense of his soul.'
In the intervening years he cracked down on the free press, helped engineer his departure and return to power, put down a rebellion in Chechnya, and interfered in the politics of its neighbors.
The U.S. intelligence community has concluded that Russia hacked the U.S. elections.
IT'S A GAS: Media and pedestrians gather during the opening of Lukoil's gasoline station September 26, 2003 in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. Lukoil, a Russian oil company, acquired Getty Petroleum Marketing Inc. and its 1, 300 stations in November 2000
FOREIGN INVESTMENT: Sen. Charles Schumer met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at an event commemorating a new Lukoil service station
Schumer has called for a special prosecutor to investigate Trump Russia ties and whether an investigation has already been compromised. He has called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign, and was among the first to call for Sessions to recuse himself from any investigation something Sessions did on Thursday in a dramatic announcement.
'Because the Department of Justice should be above reproach, for the good of the country, Attorney General Sessions should resign,' Schumer said.
In addition to Kushner, former national security advisor Mike Flynn met with Russia's ambassador, as did attorney general Jeff Sessions, a key endorser and campaign advisor for Trump.
The Daily Caller reported at least 22 visits by ambassador Sergey Kislyak to the White House during the Obama administration.
The number of advisors linked to President Donald Trump who met with Russia's ambassador to the U.S. has grown to five with two more acknowledging the contacts Thursday night.
Carter Page, who Trump identified as among his first foreign policy advisors, acknowledged the contact on MSNBC Thursday night when he didn't deny meeting with Kisklak.
Kislyak's role as the Kremlin's eyes and ears in Washington exploded onto the scene after it was revealed he met with a number of officials in Trump's inner circle during the campaign and after Trump won the presidency.
'I'm not going to deny that I talked with him,' Page told MSBNC's Chris Hayes.
Deputy White House press secretary Sarah Sanders also brought up the Schumer incident when asked about Trump associates meeting with the Russian ambassador at a conference held during the Republican National Convention in Cleveland.
'Please explain to me how volunteers meeting at a conference where nearly 80 ambassadors attended is a story,' Sanders said.
'I guess it's kind of lost on me where that would be newsworthy in any capacity. I mean Chuck Schumer sitting and having drinks with Putin and that's not a news story, but apparently a volunteer for a campaign bumping into one at a conference where there's again dozens of other ambassadors is newsworthy,' she continued.
Then she defended Sessions meeting with the ambassador, something she said occurred in his 'official capacity.'
'As a senator he obviously in his official capacity met with the ambassador. Again, that was as a senator not as a campaign official, so again, to try to muddy the waters in that way is I think pretty unfair to the attorney general,' she said.
Gabby Kuhne and Vinnie, her West Highland White terrier
What price the loyalty of a canine companion? The average dog lover would, you imagine, say its priceless. Gabby and Florian Kuehn are certainly of that persuasion, though they can put an exact figure on it. In their case, it amounts to just south of 70,000 and its still climbing.
The eye-watering sum is the amount theyve paid in legal fees fighting to stop their Maltese-Yorkshire Terrier cross, Vinnie, being evicted from their spacious London flat.
As the Mail revealed earlier this week, the management company which oversees the Kuehns apartment complex maintains that it has a no pets policy and when its members realised that Vinnie was living in the 1 million penthouse, they started legal action to see him off.
And after a two-day hearing this week, a judge ruled in their favour: Vinnie, he said, had to go.
But make no mistake: Vinnie named after hard man actor Vinnie Jones, in defiance of his fluffy, runt-of-the-litter, 5kg frame is not heading for the dogs home any time soon.
The thought that anyone could think we would do that honestly makes me sick, says Gabby. My dog is my companion. He de-stresses me. I miss him if we go away for a weekend, so the idea that anyone could imagine I would give him away makes me feel ill.
Getting rid of the dog means all of us packing our bags and leaving. Vinnie is part of our family. We consider ourselves a family, as do most of our friends with dogs.
The management firm Victory Place said the couple knew of the no-pets policy before they bought the property. The block of flats is pictured above
And so, she and her husband plan to appeal against the judges decision; a process involving more money, more time, and given their vehement opposition to rehoming Vinnie an ongoing question mark over how long they will be allowed to stay in the property they bought three years ago, thinking it would be their forever home.
Is this, then, a case of animal crackers? In blunter terms, there are some who might see this as a textbook case of a couple having more money than sense. Its a notion 45-year-old Gabby vehemently disputes.
The idea that we would knowingly have put ourselves in this situation is ludicrous, she says.
A lot of emphasis has been put on the money spent but of course we never expected it to come to this. We didnt set out thinking, lets throw lots of money at this.
Gabby adds: But as time went on, it became a matter of standing up for what we believe in.
Theres a principle at stake. We bought our flat in good faith after making all the necessary checks and what has happened is unfair.
Arriving at the Kuehns splendid home, on a gated estate by the River Thames in East London, I am half expecting to find Vinnie lounging on a velvet chaise longue being hand-fed foie gras by his devoted mistress.
In fact, he is wolfing down a tin of Pedigree Chum. Gabby, while clearly besotted with Vinnie, comes across as calm and measured.
Moreover, she is at pains to point out that while she and her husband are well-off, they have worked hard to get where they are.
I dont take for granted what we have, she says. Through a combination of hard work and luck we are very privileged.
I know people see this as stupidly spending money on our dog. But we are spending money on what we believe in. Were not asking for pity just understanding.
Gabby, who was raised on a farm in Ireland and moved to London in her mid-twenties to take up a job in recruitment, met Florian, a German banker, when they were both working in the City.
They married ten years ago, settled in East London, near their current home, and assumed children would follow. And while that didnt happen, Gabby is keen to emphasise that their decision to get a dog was unrelated.
Gabby and Florian Kuehn lost a court fight to keep their dog Vinnie in their flat in east London
Rather, a stressful period in her life five years ago led her to realise that a canine companion would be helpful.
I had a lot going on and was under a lot of stress, she recalls. I was working from home a lot, and I had also got to know a lot of dog walkers locally. Everything just came together, and the circumstances seemed right.
And so, in May 2012, along came Vinnie, a three-month-old bundle of white fluff chosen, says Gabby, specifically because his size and demeanour meant he would suit urban living. Ive got friends who have bigger cats, she says.
Gabby and Florian were bowled over by Vinnie from the start. I guess it was love at first sight, she says. He was just this adorable little thing with a big personality.
There were no issues with dog ownership at the Kuehns previous apartment complex, but when the couple decided to in Gabbys words trade up for more space three years ago, they were aware they needed to make it clear they came as a trio.
They registered with estate agents who were, Gabby insists, aware that the Kuehns came with a dog. They saw a number of properties before, in 2014, settling on their current apartment in Victory Place.
Spread over two floors, with vast picture windows overlooking the marina, it had everything they were looking for. What about Vinnie?
Prior to purchasing, we made inquiries with the estate agent whether dogs would be permitted, says Gabby.
We were told it was not a problem, that all approval for consent was dealt with by the freeholder, and then it was countersigned by the board of directors who looked after the leasehold. Our understanding was that all this was a formality. We had no reason to doubt it.
The couple bought the property in September 2014 and promptly applied to the freeholder for a dog licence, which was granted a year later as they finished renovations and were getting ready to move in.
In October 2015, they took the licence to the management company comprising five directors, all resident at Victory Place assuming it would be signed off.
Instead, recalls Gabby, they came straight back to us saying absolutely no way, that the flats had a no-pets policy. I felt sick.
As far as we were concerned we had a licence. It hadnt crossed our mind there would be an issue.
And so, by the time the Kuehns moved into their sparkling new home in November 2015, the clock was already ticking for Vinnie.
His owners Gabby and Florian Kuehn, pictured with Vinnie, were told when they bought the 1 million property in Limehouse by the freeholder dogs were allowed
The same month, the couple received a letter from the management committee giving them 24 hours notice to remove Vinnie, followed, two days before Christmas, with a note telling them that the board had issued proceedings against them at Central London County Court. Merry Christmas, says Gabby, her eyebrows arching at the memory.
One can only imagine the atmosphere in the communal hallway on the odd occasion Gabby bumped into her neighbours when she went on her twice-daily dog walks. Was it difficult?
I am not going to get into a slanging match, but given that my neighbours took me to court over a 5kg dog, I think it is safe to say there were hostilities, she says.
What saddens me is that these people live in the same block, but no one came to knock on the door to say: Lets talk about this and see what we can work out.
Down the line, we offered to meet countless times, we offered mediation, but it was all rejected.
The ante was upped, meanwhile, when, in May last year, the Kuehns got a letter from the freeholder saying they were now revoking their licence following complaints that Vinnie was making too much noise. One resident, they were told, had kept a four-month diary of his barking, whining and growling. Two others had cited specific occasions in April last year when Vinnies barking had disturbed them.
All nonsense, insists Gabby, who is at pains to point out that not only does she never leave Vinnie alone for more than four hours at a time, but that when she does, he is confined to the kitchen and monitored by a camera to ensure he is not distressed.
Either Im there so I know hes not barking or Im not there and I know hes not barking, as the camera notifies me if he so much as blinks.
I can tell you categorically that my dog does not make any noise. This felt like part of an exercise to revoke our original licence.
Gabby says she had had to give up work because of the demands and stress of the case
It is true that Vinnie doesnt seem capable of making noise that would penetrate far, not least because the couples bedrooms are situated below their communal space, which in turn is surrounded by a spacious wraparound terrace.
In effect, we are our own neighbours, says Gabby.
Finally, after several agonising months and 15 months after they moved in the hearing unfolded this week. By then, Gabby says she had had to give up work because of the demands and stress of the case.
Were professional, so we tried to get on with it, but its very hard when you feel rather like youre at war, she says.
We just clung on to the fact that we were confident this would be overturned. We felt very strongly that the law was on our side and that a blanket ban was not democratic or fair.
As we have seen, however, things didnt go the couples way. The court heard that not only did the freeholder not have permission to authorise animals, but that in a residents vote over whether to change the no-animal policy, 75 voted to retain it against the Kuehns solitary vote in favour.
What does that tell you though? says Gabby.
Vinnie is named after Hollywood hard man actor Vinnie Jones
Seventy residents didnt vote, and the ones who did, I suspect, voted not really because they felt strongly about the pets issue but because they hoped to avoid a costly court battle.
Either way, the couple lost, with Judge Donald Cryan telling the couple that their defence had boiled down to little more than I love my dog.
Its an emotion which one can readily understand and indeed sympathise with, he said but they were still in breach of their lease.
Obviously, Gabby vehemently disagrees. At the end of the day we had a professional decision and I am not going to criticise the judge for that. But I dont agree with him, she says.
The couple are now deciding whether to appeal which will buy Vinnie more time at Victory Place, but will also cost more.
At the moment, the Kuehns costs stand at an estimated 49,000 and they have been ordered to cover 20,000 of their rivals legal fees. If we win our appeal, though, then we dont pay a bean, she says.
Of course, if they dont win, it will be several thousand more to add to the legal bill and Gabby admits it will hit them hard.
We are well off but we dont have a bottomless pit of money. A lot has been made of the fact we live in a 1 million flat but then so do the residents who have taken us to court.
We are going to have to regroup, make cuts. We might have to sell the car. But we believe in it strongly enough to carry on.
We have been inundated with emails from people who are in the same situation but who dont have the means to fight. A lot of people will think we are crazy but there are also a lot who will be waiting to see how this works out.
Losing money would, of course, be just one issue: if they lose the appeal, the couple and Vinnie will have to move out.
It is a thought that fills Gabby with dread. Cuddling Vinnie tightly, she maintains that she and Florian are the victims.
I think its absolutely dreadful that these kinds of narrow-minded policies can exist, she says.
This is about more than a dog in a penthouse. We are meant to be a nation of animal lovers. It doesnt feel that way to me.
Donald Trump hopped on Air Force I on Friday morning to head down to Florida, where he joined his embattled Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos in a visit to an Orlando religious institution.
The visit was meant to promote the administration's school choice agenda, with St. Andrew Catholic School being an example of an institution that contains a large number of students from the school voucher program in Florida.
It was the first school visit President Trump has made in his presidency, and during the time he spent inside the fourth-grade classroom of teacher Jane Jones he joked with students and complimented their work while urging them to avoid a career in politics.
When one young girl said she wanted to attend Johns Hopkin and become a doctor, President Trump told her: 'That's a good idea. Make a lot of money right? But don't run for politics after.'
President Trump was joined at the school by Senator Marco Rubio, his senior adviser Jared Kushner, who brought along daughter Arabella, and DeVos.
The most popular member of the group however was President Trump's daughter Ivanka, who made the dreams of one young boy come true by signing his leg cast.
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Catholic choice: President Trump visited St. Andrew Catholic School in Orlando on Friday (above with Betsy DeVos, Arabella Kushner and Ivanka Trump) to promote his school choice agenda
Sign away: Ivanka Trump also attended the visit, and took some time to sign one young boy's cast (above)
President's pet: President Trump joked around with the children, telling one girl (above with hr classmate) 'don't run for politics' and then later promising to make her and another boy (right) 'famous'
It is unclear why President Trump chose this school, especially since the journey by Helicopter from the White House to Joint Base Andrews where the group boarded Air Force I to Orlando International Airport to then drive to the school took close to four hours.
And while the group received a warm greeting inside the classroom, it was anything but outside the school where close to 150 protesters were outside awaiting President Trump's arrival.
Many held signs referencing President Trump's planned border wall between the United States and Mexico and his deportation programs.
There seemed to be an equal number of people who were genuinely excited to see President Trump as well, waving and snapping photos as he drove by in his Secret Service envoy.
Once inside, President Trump told a story about one of the students at the school, Denisha Merriweather, who he claimed turned her life around through the voucher program.
Denisha was failing at her other school he explained, but is now thriving at St. Andrew Catholic, where students are taught that life's two biggest goals are 'college and heaven.'
'We want millions more to have the chance to achieve the success that you're achieving,' said President Trump.
Backlash: It was the first school visit President Trump has made in his presidency, and some were upset he did not visit a public school, while numerous protesters stood outside (above)
Crowded house: President was joined at the school by Education Secretary DeVos (center), Senator Marco Rubio (left), and his senior adviser Jared Kushner (back center with ivanka), who brought along daughter Arabella (hidden)
DeVos wrote about Denisha in a letter that was published by USA Today on Friday, stating: 'Denisha is living proof that school choice can break the cycle of poverty and provide transformative change.
'As a result of Floridas Tax Credit Scholarship Program, Denisha became the first in her family to graduate high school, college and, later this May, with a masters degree in social work.
'Denishas story is but one example of the opportunity we should afford to millions of students across our country.'
Meanwhile, a young boy by the name of Landon took time to praise President Trump, telling him: 'We went to thank you for serving America.'
On his way out, President Trump asked Landon and the other young girl who welcomed him, Janayah, to pose for a photo.
'We're going to make you famous, OK?' said President Trump to the 10-year-old students.
He also made a point of commenting on the hair of two young girls in the class.
'Oh that hair is beautiful. I love that hair, right?' he said to the first young student, and then later stated as he walked about another young girl: 'I love her hair!'
President Trump also repeated the comment he made on Tuesday during his speech to a joint session of Congress, calling education the 'civil rights issue of our time.'
Disembark: DeVos and Senator Rubio exiting the plane in Orlando on Friday (above)
Family affair: Arabella, Jared, Joseph, Ivanka and Theodore exit Air Force I in Palm Beach (above)
That comment came one week after President Trump lifted bathroom protections for transgender students in school.
And after the four hour journey to a Catholic school in Orlando for a 40 minute visit, President Trump was back on the plane and off to Mar-a-Lago for his fourth weekend visit in the seven weeks since he took office.
He was joined by Ivanka and Jared along with their three children for the trip.
It is unclear if they will be joined by First Lady Melania and Barron, who were in New York on Friday morning.
Meanwhile, soon after the visit President Trump was mocked on Twitter when he posted a comment about his visit and the importance of education followed by a tweet where he misspelled 'hereby' as 'hear by' and then changed to 'hearby' before finally getting it right.
Shares in Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat, soared another 11 per cent to over $27 Friday after debuting to much fanfare on the New York Stock Exchange one day earlier.
Stock was at $27.09 at 4pm, having closed at $24.48 a share Thursday - 44 per cent higher than their IPO pricing of $17 a share.
Snapchat's IPO marked the biggest tech debut on the market since 2014, when Chinese online retailer Alibaba started trading.
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Shares in Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat , soared again Friday after debutin on the New York Stock Exchange one day earlier
The company's 26-year-old CEO Evan Spiegel and his co-founder Bobby Murphy, 28, rang the opening bell at the NYSE Thursday morning. But shy Spiegel quickly retreated to follow the day's trading in private.
His fiancee, model Miranda Kerr, proudly supported him from the trading room floor, where she took Snapchat selfies with friends during her soon-to-be-husband's big moment.
At the end of the Thursday, Spiegel was now worth more than $5.4billion, thanks to the more than 210 million shares he held onto and the 16 million he sold.
The wunderkind was still in shock when the final bell rang on Thursday, when the Los Angeles Times asked him how he felt.
'How do we feel? We were just thinking about how do we answer that question,' an 'exhausted' Spiegel told the paper. 'It's exciting.'
Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat, debuted on the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday. Co-founders Bobby Murphy, 28 (left), and Evan Spiegel, 26 (center), rang the opening bell
Spiegel (right), the company's 26-year-old CEO, is now worth more than $5.4billion after the company went public
Snapchat's IPO priced their stock at $17 a share, but the shares shot up to $24 in trading on Thursday. Above, a Snap Inc. banner covers the New York Stock Exchange building on Thursday
At the end of the day, Snap Inc's shares were valued at $24.48 a share - that's 44 per cent more than the company's IPO pricing
Los Angeles-born Spiegel got the idea for Snapchat while working on a school project at Stanford. He then dropped out of school in 2012, shortly before graduating, to focus on launching the app.
In 2013, Facebook offered to buy the company from Spiegel and his co-founders for $3billion - an offer they turned down. After the first day of trading, it seems that decision was a good idea.
The IPO has tested investor appetite for a social media app that is beloved by teenagers and people under 30 for applying bunny faces and vomiting rainbows onto selfies, but has yet to convert 'cool' into cash.
Despite a nearly seven-fold increase in revenue, Los Angeles-based Snap's net loss widened 38 percent last year. It faces intense competition from larger rivals such as Facebook's Instagram as it grapples with decelerating user growth.
Snap began trading into a market with keen hunger. The book was more than 10 times oversubscribed and Snap could have priced the IPO at as much as $19 a share, but the company wanted to focus on securing mutual funds as long-term investors rather than hedge funds looking to quickly sell, a source familiar with the matter said.
Spiegel's finacee, model Miranda Kerr, center, supporter her soon-to-be husband from the trading room floor on Thursday
Evan Spielgel's father John, left, is congratulated after shares in his son's company begin trading on Thursday
Underwriters often price their IPOs below demand in order to ensure a first day spike.
Such a pop, though positive for a company's momentum, does not ensure long-term success. Share of social media company Twitter Inc surged 93 percent when it first opened on the New York Stock Exchange in 2013, but are now trading at $15.84, down nearly 40 percent from its $26 IPO price and nearly 70 percent from its opening price of $50.09.
The New York Stock Exchange carried out a trial run last week to make sure the third-biggest technology IPO ever went smoothly.
Snap's offering was well timed, with investors clamoring for fresh opportunities after 2016 marked the slowest year for tech IPOs since 2008.
The broader market has also been buoyed in the months following the election of U.S. President Donald Trump, with the benchmark S&P 500 surging 10 percent since the Nov. 8 election amid optimism around the Republican administration's domestic proposals, including plans to reform taxes paid by businesses.
'The environment is terrific. Animal spirits are running through the streets here. What better time to price,' said Stephen Massocca, senior vice president at Wedbush Securities.
The launch could encourage debuts by other so-called unicorns, tech startups with private valuations of $1 billion or more.
Investors bought the shares despite them offering no voting power, an unprecedented feature for an IPO at odds with rising concerns about corporate governance from fund managers looking to gain influence over executives.
To justify its relatively high valuation and fend off concerns about slowing user growth, Snap has emphasized how important Snapchat is to its users, how long they spend on the app and the revenue potential of the emerging trend for young people to communicate with video rather than text.
Passengers faced huge delays after an easyJet plane was involved in a crash with a tow truck at Manchester Airport.
Flights were delayed by more than two hours after a tug, the vehicle that pushes the plane onto the runway, became stuck under a Copenhagen-bound flight earlier this evening.
EasyJet confirmed that passengers moved off the damaged plane will not get another flight tonight. A flight going to Basel, Switzerland was also cancelled.
Flights are delayed by up to an hour after a tow truck reportedly became stuck under a Copenhagen-bound plane at Manchester airport earlier this evening
Police and firefighters were called to help people off the runway.
Catherine Delve tweeted: 'Stuck on the tarmac at Manchester airport because an EasyJet plane's nose cone has fallen off behind us!
'2hrs30mins on the tarmac. Now feeling exceptionally grumpy & missing out on the @ccwinch weekend away.'
EasyJet said the flight is delayed until tomorrow because of an issue 'during pushback'.
A spokesman said: 'EasyJet can confirm that flight EZY1985 from Manchester to Copenhagen was unable to depart to due to an issue involving the tug.
'The flight is delayed overnight. All passengers disembarked normally and have been provided with refreshments in the terminal while we work on providing overnight accommodation for them.
'We would like to apologise for the delay and thank them for their patience.'
A passenger who was moved off the flight tweeted: Copenhagen flight cancelled, tow truck stuck under plane. Hope no one was hurt. Also disappointed that another flight not available
Catherine Delve tweeted: 'Stuck on the tarmac at Manchester airport because an EasyJet plane's nose cone has fallen off behind us! 2hrs30mins on the tarmac. Now feeling exceptionally grumpy & missing out on the @ccwinch weekend away'
A GMP spokesman said: 'Police and firefighters are there to assist with getting passengers back to the lounge.
'We have not received reports of any casualties. Police are involved as they would be with any other incident at the airport.'
A passenger who was moved off the flight tweeted: Copenhagen flight cancelled, tow truck stuck under plane. Hope no one was hurt. Also disappointed that another flight not available
More to follow.
An 88-year-old woman says she managed to talk herself out of being sexually assaulted after she lied to her would-be attacker that she had HIV.
Helen Reynolds was in her apartment on February 17 in Parkesburg, Pennsylvania when she told ABC-6 that a man came to her door dressed like an apartment complex worker.
When she opened the door, he pushed his way inside and then bound her mouth and hands with duct tape.
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Helen Reynolds, 88, said a man dressed as an apartment worker forced his way into her home
She said there he robbed her purse of $40 and was about to sexually assault her
She said he then took $40 from her purse and was about to rape her when she suddenly came up with a story. Despite having duct tape in her mouth, she said she was able to talk to him.
'I said to him, 'Well it's like this." You might as well know the truth. I have HIV and my husband died from it,' which is a lie,' she told the outlet.
She said as soon as she said that, the man left. 'That's the comment that saved my life,' she said.
Police say there have been a string of home invasions in Chester County, including a 72-year-old woman in nearby Brandywine Township who was assaulted, tied up, and left in a closet for four days.
Quick thinking Reynolds told the suspect she had HIV and he left immediately, she said
In that case, police arrested a 17-year-old who had escaped from a nearby behavioral health facility.
'Bless her heart. I know I thought of her ever since I heard about her,' Reynolds said of the other victim.
Asked by a reporter whether she had anything to say to the perpetrator, who hasn't been found, she said, 'I have nothing good to say about him. Nothing at all. Put him in jail, and leave the sucker there.'
Girlfriend arrested: Diamond Reynolds, 27, the girlfriend of the late Philando Castile, was arrested in Minnesota on Thursday in connection to a hammer attack
The girlfriend of Philandro Castile who livestreamed his fatal shooting during a traffic stop in Minnesota last year has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another woman.
St. Paul police say they arrested Diamond Reynolds and two other women Thursday after a 24-year-old woman reported being attacked and struck in the head with a hammer Tuesday.
The victim sustained what has been described as serious injuries and was transported to Regions Hospital, where she later identified her attackers.
Chnika Blair, 28, and Dyamond Richardson, 25, have been booked into the Ramsey County jail in connection to the incident, which took place at around 10.30am on Tuesday on Jessamine Lane near Hazelwood Street in St Paul, reported Twin Cities Pioneer Press.
Reynolds role in the alleged assault wasn't given in the police report. Police spokesman Steve Linders says charges are pending.
Reynolds, 27, made headlines last summer when she used Facebook Live to broadcast the bloody aftermath of the fatal shooting of her boyfriend.
Castile, a 32-year-old black man, was shot by a police officer during a July 6 traffic stop in the St. Paul suburb of Falcon Heights.
Suspects: Chnika Blair, 28 (left), and Dyamond Richardson, 25 (right), have been named as suspects in Tuesday's incident in St Paul that left another woman injured
Prosecutors say the officer, Jeronimo Yanez, of the St. Anthony Police Department, a Latino, shot Castile seven times after the elementary school cafeteria worker told him he was armed. Authorities later discovered Castile had a permit to carry a weapon.
After the final shot, Reynolds frantically yelled: 'You just killed my boyfriend!'
Castile moaned and uttered his final words: 'I wasn't reaching for it.'
On Monday, Yanez pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and other charges. His trial is scheduled to begin May 30.
His attorneys say he had no choice but to shoot Castile after he saw a gun and perceived a threat to his life.
Prosecutors dispute whether the officer saw the gun.
Philando Castile (pictured), 32, was shot and killed by cop Jeronimo Yanez during a traffic stop in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, on July 6
Minnesota cop Jeronimo Yanez (left, in his mugshot, and right, in his police uniform) has pleaded not guilty over the shooting death a black man who was in a car with his girlfriend
Castile had a permit to carry the weapon. Audio recordings, NBC News reported last year, also revealed the cop pulled the car over because Castile and his girlfriend: 'just look like people that were involved in a robbery'.
Yanez's lawyers argued their client feared for his life and had no choice but to shoot Castile.
The shooting garnered headlines around the world because Diamond Reynolds livestreamed the moments after the shooting on Facebook.
There were widespread protests after the shooting as a result of the footage being broadcast.
The shooting's gruesome aftermath was streamed on Facebook by Castile's girlfriend, who was with him in the car along with her young daughter. At first the cop's gun could be seen being pointed through the window (left), before Castile was then covered in blood after being shot
Castile slumped to the side after he was shot (left), as his girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, live streamed the moments after the shooting on Facebook
It was revealed for the first time what Castile's final words were moments before Reynolds started filming.
'I wasn't reaching for it,' Castile said seconds after he was hit with the bullets that would kill him.
Yanez was the first officer to have been charged in more than 150 police-involved deaths in Minnesota since 2000.
If convicted, he could face 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
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For some people, smiling comes naturally but if you're having trouble perfecting the perfect grin then China has the answer.
Images show tour guides wearing traditional clothes and holding a chopstick with their mouth in order to have the perfect grin, reports the People's Daily Online.
The tour guides underwent training at Qingming Grand River Park on March 2 in central China's Henan province.
Practice makes perfect! Photos show tour guides wearing traditional Chinese dress practicing smiling using a chopstick
Smiles all round: A tour guide takes part in training at Qingming Grand-River in Kaifeng central China's Henan province
Helping hand: A tour guide helps another place the chopstick in their mouth to exercise their facial muscles
How to achieve the perfect smile: According to reports, the key to a perfect smile involves showing eight of your teeth
The tour guides were pictured being trained how to perfect a good smile.
According to reports, the perfect smile involves showing at least eight of your teeth.
In 2014, Communist party officials said the country needed to put on a cheerier face especially with tourists.
According to reports, chopstick biting is an ancient art and is being introduced in the service industries in order to deliver service with a smile.
The idea behind using chopsticks means that the facial muscles are exercised, training the body how to smile perfectly.
Lining up for inspection: The communist party announced that people in service industries needed to train their smiles
Say Cheese: The tour guides wearing traditional Chinese dress practice smiling by biting chopsticks in Kaifeng, China
Let's take a selfie: The participants take a photo of themselves to show how they can smile while using the chopsticks
Nice work! The tour guides can then be seen putting what they've learnt into practice without using a chopstick
Getting in formation: Biting on a chopstick to achieve the perfect smile is reported to be an ancient Chinese art
The tour guides wearing traditional Chinese dress practice smiling by biting chopsticks at Qingming Grand River Park
The latest iPhone 8 rumor should ease the frustration of many iOS users.
This week it was speculated that Apple was set to drop the current Lightning connector in favor of the USB format sending some fans into an uproar.
However, the latest news about the iPhone 8 has suggested that it will keep the Lightning connector and add a USB-C Power Delivery for faster charging abilities.
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This week it was speculated that Apple was set to drop the current Lightning connector in favor of the USB format. Thee latest news about the iPhone 8 has suggested that the design will keep Lightning connector and add a USB-C Power Delivery (artist impression)
WHAT IS A USB-C? The USB Type-C connector was created for use with thinner, sleeker devices, such as tablets and ultra-books. It claims to be robust enough for laptops and slim enough for smartphones. It was built on existing USB 3.1 and USB 2.0 technologies. The plug is smaller than previous connectors, and more closely resembles the size of Micro USB 2.0 Crucially, it is reversible, meaning it will work whichever way it is plugged in. Advertisement
The statement was shared by KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo with MacRumors, who also revealed that all of the iPhones launching this year will support fast charging, as they will be fitted with a larger L-shaped battery - a prediction Kuo has shared before.
New 2H17 models may all support fast charging. We believe all three new iPhones launching in 2H17 will support fast charging by the adoption of Type-C Power Delivery technology (while still retaining the Lightning port), Kuo explained in a research note obtained by MacRumors.
A key technical challenge lies with ensuring product safety and stable data transmission during a fast charge.
In order to achieve that goal, we think Apple will adopt TI's power management and Cypress's Power Delivery chip solutions for the new iPhone models.
We note the OLED version may have a faster charging speed thanks to a 2-cell L shaped battery pack design.
However, on Tuesday, an anonymous source outraged many iOS users when they told The Wall Street Journal that the tech giant was considering ditching the connector in favor of the USB-C port in its 10th-anniversary handset.
USB-C and Lightning allow for transmitting both data and power and have no up or down facing direction like more traditional USB cables, and so can be plugged in from any direction.
On Tuesday, an anonymous source outraged many iOS users when they told The Wall Street Journal that the tech giant was considering ditching the connector in favor of the USB-C port in its 10th-anniversary handset
USB-C (pictured) and Lightning allow for transmitting both data and power and have no up or down facing direction like more traditional USB cables, and so can be plugged in from any direction
A step towards a universal connection type would be beneficial for all technology users in the long run.
But the short-term and potentially costly consequence of switching formats once more is likely to provoke the ire of some.
Following the emergence of the news, a number of users took to Twitter to vent their frustration.
User Hilde Gerhard Burgel expressed what is likely to be a common reaction.
She said: 'Rumors about iPhone with USB C. Really Apple?! Do we have to throw away lightning or buy expensive adapters? Again??!! Im out.'
As of Thursday, it seems users can rest assure that Apple will most-likely not toss out the Lightning port. Sticking with the Lightning port allows Apple to keep its slightly slimmer designed
IPHONE 8 RUMOURS Several rumors have been circulating about the iPhone 8, and suggest the next device may have: - Dual-lens 3D camera - Augmented reality to generate real-time views of surroundings - Curved glass casing - Plastic OLED screen - Wireless charging - A folding element - Removal of the home button - New 5 inch (12.7 centimeter) and 5.8 inch (14.7 centimeter) model, which will have a wraparound OLED screen - 5.8 inch will be designed with the Touch ID finger print sensor 'under the glass and in the active display area' - A new 'pure white' model - Aluminium back will be replaced with two reinforced glass panes and a metal frame in the middle - Facial recognition Advertisement
Another user Daniel Ensign expressed similar concerns.
He said: 'Pretty stoked about the switch to OLED but why the switch to USB C. Apple just made us get new headphones.'
But not everyone is convinced that Apple will make the switch.
John Christensen said: 'So the next iPhone redesign is gonna have USB C instead of lighting? I'm gonna call bull****.'
As of Thursday, it seems users can rest assure that Apple will most-likely not toss out the Lightning port.
Kuo also shared with MacRumors that sticking with the Lightning port allows Apple to keep its slightly slimmer designed compared to if they would have replaced it with a USB-C port.
He also suggested that Apple will take this route to sustain MFI program licensing income from Lightning accessories and because he believes USB-Cs high-speed data transmissions is still in niche application for iPhone, reports Joe Rossignol with MacRumors.
Earlier this month Kuo also made a prediction that Apple is planning to pack a larger battery inside its highly-anticipated iPhone 8.
A 2,700 mAh battery is set to be used in the 4.7-inch handset putting the battery capacity on par with the firm's current iPhone 7 Plus.
By keeping the Lightning connector and adding a USB-C Power Delivery, the iPhone 8 will be designing with faster charging abilities
COULD THE IPHONE 8 HAVE A LARGER BATTERY? Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI Securities has revealed to 9to5Mac that Apple plans to put a larger battery in the 4.7-inch iPhone 8. Kuo explained that it will be designed with a 2,700 mAh battery - putting its battery capacity on par with the iPhone 7 Plus. The iPhones launching this year will support fast charging, as they will be fitted with a larger L-shaped battery (middle) Will use a 'substrate-like PCB mainboard', which will allow the firm to implement an OLED display in the flagship handset. The new components are believed to be much more expensive in anything used in an iPhone before, which could increase manufacturing costs by 80 percent. However, it was revealed last week that iOS users should expect to pay a hefty price tag for their next iPhone. Advertisement
The report said that the new lower end handsets, which could be called the iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus, will use a new 'stacked' motherboard, which is smaller - leaving more room for a battery.
This will 'make it comparable to their iPhone 7 and 7 Plus counterparts,' reports 9to5Mac.
Thanks to stacked SLP, we expect the OLED iPhone to have similar dimensions to a 4.7' TFT-LCD iPhone, and have comparable battery capacity (equipped with around 2,700 mAh L-shaped 2-cell battery pack) to a 5.5' TFT-LCD iPhone.'
'The battery life of the OLED iPhone could be better than that of the 5.5' TFT-LCD model as OLED panels are more energy-efficient than their TFT-LCD counterparts.'
Google is about to make more Androids even smarter.
The tech giant is rolling out its Google Assistant to devices running on the Nougat and Marshmallow versions of its Android software.
The firm first revealed the expansion at the Mobile World Congress and users in the US will be the first to receive the update Australia, Canada, the UK and Germany are set to follow.
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Google is rolling out its Google Assistant to devices running on Nougat and Marshmallow. The firm first revealed the expansion at the Mobile World Congress and users in the US will be the first to receive the update Australia, Canada, the UK and Germany are set to follow.
IS YOUR ANDROID ON THE LIST? Google has yet to reveal a detailed list of Android devices that are eligible to download Google Assistant. However, the firm noted in the announcement that 'hundreds of millions of Android users' will now be able to try it. Google also stated that the Assistant will be available for a number of older handsets from its partners including HTC, Huawei, Samsung and Sony. But the Androids must also meet the hardware minimums of at least 1.5 GB of RAM and a 720p screen. Users on Google Play version 10.2.98 or higher should find that Google Assistant is now activated or will be sometime this week. Advertisement
'Whether you need to know how to say 'nice to meet you' in Korean or just a simple reminder to do laundry when you get home, your Assistant can help,' Gummi Hafsteinsson, product lead for Google Assistant, shared in an announcement.
'With the Google Assistant on Android phones, you have your own personal, helpful Google right in your pocket.'
Although the firm has yet to release a list of eligible devices, they do promise that 'hundreds of millions of Android users' will be able to use Google Assistant.
The Assistant is already available on Pixel, Google Home, Google Allo and Android Wear.
But is set to reach older devices that also meet the hardware minimums of at least 1.5 GB of RAM and a 720p screen.
And users on Google Play version 10.2.98 or higher should find that Google Assistant is now activated.
Google Assistant was the firm's weapon to take on the other tech giants of the world Amazon's Alexa, Apple's Siri and Microsoft's Cortana.
Google first unveiled the technology in 2016 when it launched its Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones, then Assistant to Google Home and then Android Wear 2.0.
And now, it is making its way to even more devices.
It seems Google is excited about the rollout as it suggests a few commands users can check out by pressing on the Home button of their device or by saying 'Ok Google'.
GOOGLE ASSISTANT Google announced at the Mobile World Congress that it will be rolling out Google Assistant for older handsets. Set to expand into devices running on Android 7.0 Nougat and Android 6.0 Marshmallow with Google Play Services. And meet the hardware minimums of at least 1.5 GB of RAM and a 720p screen. Will start in the US, with Australia, Canada, the UK and Germany set to follow after. Although the firm has yet to release a list of eligible devices, they do promise that 'hundreds of millions of Android users' will be able to use Google Assistant. Advertisement
For example, users can ask 'what's my confirmation number for my London flight?'
Or they can make commands list 'take me to the Museu Picasso' and 'show my photos of sunsets in Tahoe'.
The Google Assistant will begin rolling out this week to English users in the US, followed by English in Australia, Canada and the UK, as well as German speakers in Germany,' Hafsteinsson explained.
'We'll continue to add more languages over the coming year.'
The Assistant will automatically be added to eligible Android phones running on Android 7.0 Nougat and Android 6.0 Marshmallow with Google Play Services.
Although the firm has yet to release a list of eligible devices, they do promise that 'hundreds of millions of Android users' will be able to use Google Assistant
HOW DO WE REALLY FEEL ABOUT VOICE ASSISTANTS? Creative Strategies, a service that tracks trends and develops deeper insight into key industry topics, released their findings that looked at how consumers are using these virtual assistants and how they really feel about them. The firm ran two studies: Once looked at Alexa that covered 1,300 early adopters across the US and the UK. And the other focused on 500 mainstream consumers and their use of smartphones based digital assistants. Creative Strategies revealed that 21% of its panel never used Siri, 43% never touched OK Google and 72% have never asked Cortana anything. They also found that 2% of iPhone owners have never used Siri and only 4% of Android owners have never used OK Google, which suggests those who own the phone do indeed call on the powers of the digital personas. Approximately 395 of consumers use their voice assistant in their home, 51 percent in the car, but only 1.3 percent at work and 6 percent in public. Creative Strategies explains that the reason most usage is in the car is due to the hands-free law that regulates driving and texting. Those who have never used a voice assistant reported feeling uncomfortable with talking to their technology particularly in public. Advertisement
And it will also be available for some newly announced partner devices such as the LG G6.
'Our goal is to make the Assistant available anywhere you need it,' wrote Hafsteinsson.
'It came to Android Wear 2.0via new smartwatchesjust a few weeks ago and, as we previewed in January, the Assistant is also coming to TVs and cars.'
The tech giant unveiled its smart speaker in May 2016 that would be the new home for its assistant.
The Assistant will automatically be added to eligible Android phones running on Android 7.0 Nougat and Android 6.0 Marshmallow with Google Play Services - letting users reap the benefits of a virtual assistant
Called Google Home, the small speaker will be able to play music and access Google Assistant, a new AI system the search giant unveiled today.
It will harness the power of Google's search engine along with the AI technology the firm developed to beat a grandmaster at the ancient board game Go to create assistants people can talk and text with as if they were a human being.
'We want to be there for users, asking them 'Hi, how can I help',' said Google boss Sundar Pichai, who took over as the CEI when the firm reorganised as Alphabet earlier this year.
'We want users to have an ongoing 2 way dialogue with Google.'
GOOGLE VS. AMAZON Google's $130 Home speaker is triggered by the phrase 'Hey Google' while Amazon's Echo uses 'Alexa'. Amazon's smart speaker is available in two versions - the full sized $180 Echo shown here, and a smaller, $50 version called the Echo Dot. Google Home AI speaker (left) is triggered by the phrase 'Hey Google' . Amazon's Echo (right) uses 'Alexa' Amazon Echo relies on Microsoft's Bing search engine and Wikipedia, while Google Home uses the company's own Google Search. Both Home and Echo are continually listening for commands, though Google and Amazon say nothing gets passed back to them until the speakers hear a keyword 'OK, Google' for Home and 'Alexa' for Echo. Google's Assistant software is also able to answer follow-up questions on the same topic, in a near-conversation style, but Echo as yet cannot. However, Amazon's Alexa software has a wider range of skills on offer that enable it to link up with and control more third-party devices around the home. A light comes on to remind you that it's listening. You can turn off the microphone temporarily, too. Advertisement
In other recent new, it was revealed that Google Home was set to make its way across the Atlantic and into the homes of UK users later this year.
However, the company has now confirmed Home will go on sale in the UK during the 'second quarter' of this year, meaning it will be released before the end of June. The Google Home speaker costs $130, while Amazon's smart speaker is available in two versions - the full sized $180 Echo shown here, and a smaller, $50 version called the Echo Dot.
Google has yet to announce the official date or UK price for Home. Google's Assistant software is also able to answer follow-up questions on the same topic, in a near-conversation style, but Echo as yet cannot.
The Home speaker will give you the time, weather, estimated commute, the news and upcoming calendar appointments.
If trying to order dinner or find your hotel abroad fills you with fear due to your abysmal grasp of foreign languages, don't panic.
A new in-ear gadget claims to be able to translate speech like the Babel Fish in The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, or the Universal Translator gadget in Star Trek.
The system, dubbed the Pilot, will cost $249 and go on sale later this year.
It uses two earpieces, one worn by each person in the conversation.
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The Pilot system comprises two earpieces (shown in three colours above) to be worn by two people who don't speak the same language
HOW IT WORKS The Pilot works as a normal set of wireless earphones. However, the user can take one out and give it to someone else. It uses specially designed noise-canceling microphones to filter out ambient noise from the speech of someone talking. The speech is then passed through the Pilot app, where layers of speech translation technologies occur. The translated language is sent to the other user wearing the second earpiece . It all occurs simultaneously without interruption, as each person speaks to one another. Advertisement
It is claimed to be the first 'smart earpiece' capable of translating between two languages, and was shown off at the recent Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.
The company behind the technology, Waverly Labs, said: 'This little wearable uses translation technology to allow two people to speak different languages but still clearly understand each other.'
It will support five languages: English, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, with other being added as upgrades at a later date.
If someone does not wish to wear the second earpiece, you can use the smartphone app which is included as the app can be used on speaker mode, the firm says.
It all occurs simultaneously without interruption, as each person speaks to one another.'
The firm said the first generation does not translate everything happening around you.
'It only translates with people who also have the Pilot earpiece, but future generations will be developed to translate everything around you.'
It is designed to work offline so it won't incur data charges when used overseas.
The New York- based company behind the Pilot said both wireless earpieces can be used by one person for listening to music.
The gadget was invented by Waverly Labs founder Andrew Ochoa who said he had the idea for it 'after meeting a French girl'.
The company behind the device (pictured above) said: 'This little wearable uses translation technology to allow two people to speak different languages but still clearly understand each other'. They earphones will also work as normal bluetooth headphones when not translating.
It's thought an accompanying app (shown) enables both earpieces to toggle between languages and a video shows the Pilot translating a conversation between French and English with only a small lag.
The firm warned: 'Every language has various dialects and the earpiece is designed to translate common dialects, although thick accents could disrupt this.'
The product will include two earpieces, a portable charger and access to the app, where languages can be downloaded for the earpiece.
UNIVERSAL TRANSLATORS MAY NO LONGER BY A THING OF SCIENCE FICTION The universal translator (UT) is a device used in Star Trek to translate alien languages. In the early series of Star Trek, the UTs were shaped like tubes. In Star Trek: Enterprise the UTs looked similar to a flip phone. In Star Trek: Next Generation, UTs are built into the communication pins on Starfleet uniforms. Ferengis, including Quark from Deep Space Nine, have implants in their ear from birth. While the first generation device works only when speaking to someone wearing an earpiece, future generations could listen to everything happening nearby, so pairs of devices won't be needed. It could be likened to the Universal Translator device (shown above) in Star Trek One exception is the Klingon language, which mostly can't be translated. C-3PO from Star Wars has the capability to understand millions of languages. The forthcoming in-ear gadget is claimed to be able to translate speech like the Babelfish in The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (illustrated in a sreenshot) or the Universal Translator gadget in Star Trek High-tech translation devices also include the Babel Fish in The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy. In the Douglas Adam book a small fish is inserted into the ear of a person, allowing all alien languages to be translated into English Professor Farnsworth of Futurama also created a similar device - though it translated only French. Advertisement
Skype says in its blog: 'With the continued adoption of Skype Translator, we are working on rolling out new languages and platformsbringing the translation feature to more Skype apps and implementing an even wider selection of languages.
'We are dedicated to continue the growth of this new chapter in communication which has enabled people to connect globally, for free.'
The Google Translate App, launched last year, allows users to use their camera to translate text instantly in 26 languages, and offers two-way automatic speech translation in 40 languages.
If you want to know how a woman will age, you are advised to look at her mother.
But the secret to looking a decade younger is not just in the genes, it has emerged, as a third of women who appear younger may simply have lived more sensibly.
A study has found getting eight hours or more of sleep a night, taking a multi-vitamin and doing regular exercise all make women more likely to look younger.
But less organised women, who forget to moisturise, sometimes leave off the sunscreen and do not manage to stay at their target weight all damage their chances of ageing well.
A third of women who appear younger may simply have lived more sensibly. A study has found getting eight hours or more of sleep a night, taking a multi-vitamin and doing regular exercise all make women more likely to look younger
Research by Harvard University, with the skincare company Olay, previously found some women aged 20 to 74 were frequently told they looked more than 10 years younger, and that these women had genes which expressed themselves differently.
A follow-up study by the firm found however that only two-thirds of these women carry the two main genetic variations now found to affect skin.
Looking at the third without good genes, they found sensibly sleeping enough made someone 10 per cent more likely to appear younger. Taking multi-vitamins increased their chances by 18 per cent and regular exercise by 14 per cent.
Unsurprisingly, smoking and sunshine remain bad for your skin, the research with genetics company 23andMe found.
Of more than 155,000 women surveyed, those who reported sunbathing frequently in had around a third lower likelihood of looking a decade younger.
Despite the pollution, it means women in cities are better off than those in the countryside, who tend to spend more time outside exposed to damaging ultraviolet light.
Unsurprisingly, smoking and sunshine remain bad for your skin, the research with genetics company 23andMe found
But the results show that, despite the old adage that ageing women can save their body or their face, that being thin is not bad for your skin.
Women who are overweight, with a BMI above 25, were found to cut their chances of looking young by a fifth. The researchers said it may be that putting on weight affects overall health.
Dr Frauke Neuser, principal scientist for Olay, said: The results of the study tell us that exceptional skin ageing is overwhelmingly determined by external environmental and behavioural factors that are within our control, with genetic factors playing a much smaller role.
If you want to know how a woman will age, you are advised to look at her mother. But the secret to looking a decade younger is not just in the genes
It comes down to smart lifestyle choices, the most important ones being avoiding sun (UV) exposure, and daily sunscreen use to mitigate its ageing effects, keeping the skin well hydrated and having a positive mental attitude.
The study found women who often or always had dry skin had a 30 per cent lower likelihood of looking young. But the firm said this could include women who failed to moisturise or who naturally had dry skin as their skin type.
There are 2,000 epidermal genes thought to influence how the skin ages, including those involved with DNA repair and replication and cell survival.
The latest research, which judged exceptional agers based on whether they were frequently told or believed they looked 10 years younger, will be presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Its psychological impact on victims is well-documented since being classed as a criminal offence in 2015.
But despite this, new research reveals that a majority of people would endorse the use of revenge porn when punishing a former partner.
Perhaps surprisingly, it's women - not men - who most approve of publicly sharing explicit material without consent.
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Online threat: A greater propensity to engage in revenge porn also co-inced with psychopathy, Machiavellianism and narcissism, researchers from the University of Kent have found
KEY FINDINGS - A third of people reported a likelihood to engage in revenge porn activity - 99 per cent expressed at least some approval of revenge porn - 87 per cent expressed some excitement of amusement with revenge porn Advertisement
Psychologists at the University of Kent studied one hundred adults aged 18-54, 80 per cent of whom were female.
Nearly a third of participants (29 per cent) reported a likelihood to engage in revenge porn activity.
But a staggering 99 per cent expressed at least some approval of revenge porn being posted online when presented with a scenario about a partner walking out on them.
The researchers also found that 87 per cent of participants expressed at least some excitement or amusement with revenge porn.
Led by Dr Afroditi Pina at the University's School of Psychology, the team also established a link between revenge porn proclivity and specific psychological characteristics.
Specifically, a greater propensity to engage in revenge porn also co-inced with psychopathy, Machiavellianism and narcissism.
Specifically, a greater propensity to engage in revenge porn also co-inced with psychopathy, Machiavellianism and narcissism
The researchers concluded that, although most participants would be 'unlikely to commit an act of revenge porn themselves', there is an 'acceptance' among the majority of behaviour they know is 'frequently occurring online'.
This, they say, could have significant implications 'especially if one considers the facilitating role of online bystanders in the rapid dissemination of revenge porn materials'.
More than four decades after man last walked on the moon, space experts are delivering lunar equipment so we can set up a permanent home.
Jeff Bezos, the boss of Amazon, says he wants to start delivering equipment to the moon to help set up the first human settlement.
The Earth-to-Moon cargo delivery service would carry as much as 10,000 pounds of goods to the Moon's South Pole and could be lifting off in 2020.
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Jeff Bezos owns a private space company called Blue Origin which he hopes to use to deliver equipment for early settlers on the moon - it could be the lunar equivalent of Amazon Prime
MOON DELIVERY The boss of Amazon wants to be delivering packages to the moon in 2020. He has already reserved a parking spot near the Shackleton Crater on the south pole. It has constant sunlight and water nearby could be used as a source of hydrogen for rocket fuel. The rocket could carry 10,000 pounds of goods to help the first human settlements. Advertisement
Bezos owns a private space company called Blue Origin and he hopes it will provide the lunar equivalent of Amazon Prime.
It will mainly be delivering equipment that early moon settlers would need, he wrote in a white paper outlining his ideas.
Bezos has already reserved his parking spot near the Shackleton Crater on the South Pole.
It's a prime spot because it has constant sunlight and water nearby could be used as a source of hydrogen for rocket fuel, according to The Verge.
The sunny spots of the moon are quickly becoming valuable real estate.
Shackleton Crater could be turned into 'an oasis of warm sunlight surrounded by a desert of freezing cold darkness' Nasa said.
Some experts believe that that routinely parking a piece of equipment on one spot could mean they take ownership of that piece of land.
This cargo service would help to enable 'future human settlement' of the moon, Mr Bezos wrote in his white paper, which was obtained by the Washington Post.
Bezos (pictured) has already reserved his parking spot - near the Shackleton Crater on the south pole. It's a prime spot because it has constant sunlight and water nearby could be used as a source of hydrogen for rocket fuel
'It is time for America to return to the Moon this time to stay,' Bezos told Washington Post.
'A permanently inhabited lunar settlement is a difficult and worthy objective. I sense a lot of people are excited about this', he said.
This proposal came just days after Elon Musk said his company would fly two citizens around the moon next year.
This cargo service would help to enable 'future human settlement' of the moon. 'It is time for America to return to the Moon this time to stay,' Bezos said
The Earth-to-Moon cargo delivery service would carry as much as 10,000 pounds of goods to the Moon's South Pole and could be up and running by 2020
Rather than visiting and then leaving, Bezos' plans would mean actually leaving things on the moon for the first time.
He said the mission could only happen with partnership with Nasa.
'Our liquid hydrogen expertise and experience with precision vertical landing offer the fastest path to a lunar lander mission.
'I'm excited about this and am ready to invest my own money alongside NASA to make it happen', he wrote in the white paper.
With the help of Nasa, Bezos wants to develop 'incentives in the private sector to demonstrate a commercial lunar cargo delivery service'.
With the help of NASA, Bezos wants to develop a commercial lunar cargo delivery service
Blue Origin has a range of rockets. As well as sending goods to the moon in 2020, the firm has also confirmed that it is still on schedule to send paying customers into orbit as soon as 2018
BEZOS' ROCKETS Blue Origin and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos unveiled a new rocket in October last year that will launch payloads and people into orbit. Called 'New Glenn', this launcher comes in two stages that make it larger than SpaceX's future Heavy rocket. 'New Glenn 3-stage' is 23 feet in diameter and stands 313 feet tall. And 'New Glenn 2-stage' is also 23 feet in diameter, but measures 270 feet tall. Each stage lifts off with 3.85 million pounds of thrust from seven BE-4 engines. A single vacuum-optimized BE-3 engine, burning liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, will power New Glenn's third stage. However, the booster and the second stage are identical in both variants. Blue Origin plans to fly New Glen by the end of the decade from Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Advertisement
Just last month, Nasa's top staff were given instructions to assess the feasibility of sending humans to space with the first flight of the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft.
The mission was originally designed to be uncrewed, and was set to launch in 2018.
In a press conference in February, officials leading the study revealed the evaluations are now well underway, and they've already created a 'hard, crisp list' of everything that will need to change 'from a hardware standpoint' in order to add crew.
Blue Origin space firm has confirmed that it is still on schedule to send paying customers into orbit as soon as 2018.
The company completed a crucial in-flight escape pod test on its New Shepard rocket in October last year.
'We're still on track for flying people our test astronauts by the end of 2017, and then starting commercial flights in 2018,' said Blue Origin President Rob Meyerson, speaking at the International Symposium on Commercial and Personal Spaceflight (ISPCS) in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
The company expects to build six New Shepard vehicles, which are designed to autonomously fly six passengers to more than 62 miles (100 km) above Earth, high enough to experience a few minutes of weightlessness and see the planet set against the blackness of space.
Most people want their final journey to be dignified and understated.
But, for those preferring to make a big exit, there could soon be a flashier option which provides a technologically-advanced funeral.
Designed by Mumbai-based agency Lunatic Koncepts, the Aeternal is a modern-day hearse which relies on driverless technology.
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The Aeternal is one of the world's few concepts in modern funeral options and incorporates modern technology - specifically, driverless technology
THE AETERNAL HEARSE The futuristic hearse concept uses GPS technology to follow a pre-programmed route, using motion sensors to steer its way around obstacles. Other features include: - Refrigerated glass casket - Multi-media fittings, such as a surround-sound music system - Hologram projector which could stream images onto the floor Advertisement
Incorporating GPS technology, mourning relatives would be able to pre-program journey, speed and destination details into the product's dashboard.
Using motion sensors, it would also be able to steer its way around unforeseen obstacles.
Other features include a refrigerated glass casket and multi-media fittings, such as a surround-sound music system and hologram projector which could stream images onto the floor.
A description on the product's site boasts that the Aeternal is 'made to be maneuverable in places like the funeral home, the church, and the cemetery.
'It can slowly rotate and execute maneuvers in tight spots since its equipped with mecanum wheels which move independently from one another, giving a wider range of movement. It can fit in any space and wont damage the floors.'
Using motion sensors, the driverless hearse would steer its way around unforeseen obstacles
It adds: 'Aeternals concept simply tries to imagine how todays hearses could evolve with integrated driverless technology, robotics, and multimedia.
'It tries to celebrate the departed in a new way.'
The rather bizarre concept is based on an earlier prototype called the Korbiyor.
Other features include a refrigerated casket and multi-media fittings, such as a surround-sound music system and hologram projector
Previously, Lunatic Koncepts worked on developing the Antipode - a hypersonic business aircraft designed to fly from New York to London in 11 minutes.
That was based on rocket boosters lifting the aircraft to an altitude of 40,000 ft and then propelling it to Mach 5, when scramjets would ignite - accelerating the aircraft up to Mach 24.
A nozzle in the aircraft's nose would then apply NASA's Long Penetration Mode concept to scoop-up air to cool the aircraft.
Robot probes sent in to study Japan's Fukushima site keep failing during their recon missions.
The radiation levels at the site are so high that previous clean-up bots have struggled to withstand conditions within the reactor for long.
Now the head of decommissioning for the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant said on Thursday that the company's robots were not able to get close enough to the core area.
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Robot probes sent in to study Japan's Fukushima site keep failing during their recon missions. This image shows a photograph taken by a probe sent into Fukushima's No. 2 reactor
HOW THE ROBOT PROBE WORKS Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO), the company that owns the Fukushima plant, took radiation readings using a robot probe. The 60-centimeter (2-foot) -long robot has a lamp at the front and was designed to crawl like a snake through a 10-centimeter (4-inch) wide pipe into the containment vessel. From there it dangled and descended onto a platform just below the reactor core's bottom, an area known as the pedestal. There, the robot transformed into a U-shaped crawler and captured live images and temperature and radiation levels. It transmitted them to a control station outside the building. Advertisement
Robots have to be used to clean the site because the radiation is too dangerous for humans.
A probe failed its mission earlier this month after it was blocked by debris within the reactor, likely a mixture of melted fuel and broken pieces of the plant.
And two previous robots have also failed on missions after one got stuck in a small gap and another was abandoned after failing to find any fuel after six days.
New robot designs, built to deal with both the dangerously high radiation at the site and the debris, are needed as early as this summer.
Naohiro Masuda, president of Fukushima Dai-ichi decommissioning, claimed that more creativity is needed in developing robots to locate and assess the condition of melted fuel rods.
He said that more data, which must be collected by probes, was needed before a proper cleanup could begun.
'We should think out of the box so we can examine the bottom of the core and how melted fuel debris spread out,' Mr Masuda said.
A massive undersea earthquake on March 11, 2011 sent a huge tsunami barrelling into Japan's northeast coast leaving more than 18,000 people dead or missing.
Three reactors were sent into meltdown at the Fukushima plant in the worst such accident since Chernobyl in 1986.
Japan's government said in December that it expects the total costs to reach 152 billion ($190 billion) in a cleanup process likely to take decades.
After a manually operated camera (pictured) probed the deepest point yet within the reactor last month, Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) estimate that radiation levels inside the plant's No. 2 reactor have hit a record high of 530 sieverts per hour
High radiation levels have greatly slowed operations.
Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO), the company that owns the plant, has said it plans to eventually use robots to locate the fuel debris as part of the decommissioning process.
Mr Masuda said this week that at least one more robot must be sent in before they begin clearing the reactor's debris from the site.
TEPCO needs to know the melted fuel's exact location as well as structural damage in each of the three wrecked reactors to figure out the best and safest ways to remove the fuel.
The news comes after it was revealed last month that radiation levels inside a stricken reactor at Fukushima have hit a record high.
After a robot probe failed due to the stifling radiation, experts expressed concerns over how the disaster-hit facility will be safely dismantled in the future.
A manually operated camera probed the deepest point yet within the reactor in February.
Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) estimated that radiation levels inside the plant's No. 2 reactor have hit 530 sieverts per hour.
Radiation exposure at 530 sieverts per hour is enough to effectively shut down TEPCO's robot camera probes (pictured) in under two hours. TEPCO said last month that radiation is not leaking outside the reactor
The previous record at Fukushima was 73 sieverts per hour detected by sensors in 2012, TEPCO said. But TEPCO said the high reading focused on a single point with levels likely to be much lower at other spots
TEPCO said the radiation is not leaking outside the reactor.
The previous record at Fukushima was 73 sieverts per hour detected by sensors in 2012, TEPCO said.
But TEPCO said the high reading focused on a single point with levels likely to be much lower at other spots.
It added that future robot probes would not sustain severe damage because it was unlikely to linger for too long at a single point.
TEPCO's radiation readings were made by a radiation-resistant robot probe.
The three cameras mounted on the caterpillar-type robot are designed to withstand up to 1,000 sieverts in total.
The 60-centimetre (2-foot) long robot has lamps at the front and is designed to crawl like a snake through a 10-centimetre (4-inch) wide pipe into the containment vessel.
Once inside the reactor, the robot flips into a U-shaped crawler and captures live images and temperature and radiation levels.
The robot transmitted them to a control station outside the building.
The three cameras mounted on a caterpillar-type robot are designed to withstand up to 1,000 sieverts in total. The 60-centimeter (2-foot) long robot has a lamp at the front and was designed to crawl like a snake through a 10-centimeter (4-inch) wide pipe
Once inside the reactor, the robot transformed into a U-shaped crawler and captured live images and temperature and radiation levels
Images of the wreckage inside the No. 2 reactor show that the metal grating under the pressure vessel which contained nuclear fuel has largely sunken in, causing a hole about one metre wide.
Black debris that could be melted fuel is also seen in the images.
Fuel may have melted through the vessel and damaged the grating but the exact cause was not determined, TEPCO spokesman Tatsuhiro Yamagishi said Friday.
'It may have been caused by nuclear fuel that would have melted and made a hole in the vessel, but it is only a hypothesis at this stage,' he told AFP.
'We believe the captured images offer very useful information, but we still need to investigate given that it is very difficult to assume the actual condition inside,' he said.
A tragic house fire that killed a mother, five children and critically burned a father Wednesday in Riddle has affected friends and family who live in the Philomath and Monroe areas.
James Keith Howell, 39, was in critical condition in the burn center, Julie Reed, a spokeswoman for Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland, confirmed to The Associated Press Thursday.
Tabitha Annette Howell, 38, and Andrew Hall-Young, 13, died at a Portland hospital Thursday from injuries sustained in the fire. The fire earlier took the lives of Nicholas Lowe, 13, Isaiah Young, 10, Haley Maher, 7, and Gwendolyn Gracie Howell, 4.
Tabitha Howell graduated from Philomath High School in 1996; she was known then as Tabitha Maher. Her local past also included serving as the 1995 Philomath Frolic & Rodeo queen. James Howell is a 1996 Monroe High School graduate.
According to a Douglas County sheriffs deputy, Nicholas Lowe was a foster child. Tabitha Howell was the mother of all the other children and was married to James Howell, who is the father of the youngest victim.
Investigators were starting to put together a picture Thursday of what led to the devastating fire. Breaking out at around 2 a.m. Wednesday, Fire Protection District Chief Rich Holloway said in a social media post that combustible materials placed too close to a portable space heater ignited and started the fire.
Holloway wrote that a component of the homes fireplace had malfunctioned, and the family was using the space heater until they could get it repaired.
Holloway couldnt be reached but the authenticity of the post was confirmed by City Manager Kathy Wilson.
All the burn pattern indicators, witness statements and the statement from the father on first arrival, all collaborate, Holloway said.
Some members of the all-volunteer Fire Department knew the family, Wilson said. Riddle is located about 23 miles south of Roseburg.
In a small town like this, everyone knows each other, and this has been devastating, she said. It is just such a tragedy. It's something we've never seen before. It has affected everyone.
Community members held a candlelight vigil at a church late Wednesday that attracted more than 300 people.
Grief counselors were on hand at schools in the South Umpqua School District, where some of the children attended class, said Superintendent Tim Porter.
The district has just 1,450 students in all grades, he said.
In a statement released through Legacy Emanuel, family members at the hospital declined interview requests.
The community has been so generous in their response to our needs with prayer and offers of support, and we are very grateful, the statement read.
At this time, we are requesting continued prayers and your respect for our privacy, as we are grieving our loss.
An aunt of the children said in a phone interview that her nieces and nephews were always just so kind and outgoing and just so full of joy.
Heather Hendrick, who is married to Tabitha Howells stepbrother, said she last saw the family at a post-Christmas holiday dinner. Her son and Isaiah were born just 12 hours apart and shared a special bond, she said.
At the dinner, they wrestled and horsed around on the floor, she said.
They have always been just so kind and generous and outgoing and loving toward us, she said of the family.
Tabitha Howell was a U.S. Navy veteran and worked at a day care center with her mother, said Hendrick, of Roseburg. According to an article published in January in the Roseburg News-Review, Howell was a Navy hospital corpsman who served for 14 years. She was a preventive medicine technician who was deployed to Iraq twice and to Kuwait once. She spent nine years with the Seabees at Port Hueneme Naval Base in California.
A gofundme account has been set up for the family. All donations will go for expenses for medical bills and funeral costs. The account can be accessed at this web address: https://www.gofundme.com/tragic-fire-claims-children. The account was originally posted with a goal of $10,000 and as of 6:30 p.m. Thursday, it had generated donations of more than $32,000.
Want to get your hands on a mobile phone just as indestructible as your old trusty Nokia 3310?
If you've got 2,450 ($3,000) to spare, you can buy yourself a brand new 3310 coated in the world's toughest metal.
Luxury phone company Gresso has unveiled its own version of the retro Nokia classic called the Gresso 3310 - and the pricey new model is coated in grade five titanium.
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Luxury phone company Gresso has unveiled its own version of the retro Nokia classic called the Gresso 3310
GRESSO 3310 - Coated in 'indestructible' grade five titanium - 75-hour talk time - Three megapixel camera - 2,450 ($3,002) price tag Advertisement
It also features a three megapixel camera and its battery can last the length of 75-hour phone call.
The Moscow-based company behind the new phone said it could withstand a drop from 32 feet (ten metres) and is virtually 'indestructible'.
'The headlines from Mobile World Congress have focused on the release of the new Nokia 3310,' a spokesperson from Gresso said.
The pricey new model is coated in grade five titanium and its creators say it's virtually 'indestructible'
'The question on everyone's mind was if the new Nokia 3310 model would live up to the indestructible reputation of its 2000 predecessor.
'Crafted from grade 5 titanium, the Gresso 3310 is able to withstand a drop from 32 feet, making the world's 'unbreakable' phone actually indestructible.'
The new Nokia 3310, with a slick look that pays homage to its original design, was unveiled at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona.
The new Nokia 3310, a light plastic-based phone costing 41 ($51), was unveiled at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona
THE NOKIA 3310 - Thin, light and durable - 22-hour talk time - One month battery life - Four colours - red, yellow, dark blue and grey - Limited 2.5G internet capability - Costs 41 ($51) - Revamped version of Snake will come pre-installed - Expected to be released around April Advertisement
The iconic handset was a massive hit with users back in 2000 and now the mobile phone giant is relaunching it with a month-long battery, 22 hours of talk-time, and even its popular game, snake.
While the handset looks similar to its predecessor, Nokia has brought its new model up to date and instead of the original display, a monochrome 84 x 84, it has a colour screen.
However, it has limited internet capabilities, relying on 2.5G connectivity, with users browsing at speeds slower than if they were using 3G.
It also has a single camera which has just two megapixels.
The phone, which sold 126 million handsets until it was phased out in 2005, will be sold by Finish company HMD Global.
It may come as a shock to his wife Melania, but according to an AI, President Donald Trump uses social media 'like a bachelor'
A new algorithm that predicts user marital status by analyzing social media use has determined the US president tweets like a single man - identifying him as 'not-married' due to a string of late night messages.
However, researchers believe this is because Trump's assistants are also updating his Twitter account and they may be the ones that are not married.
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It may be common knowledge that President Donald Trump is married, but an AI has suggested otherwise. A new algorithm that predicts user marital status by analyzing social media use has determined he tweets like a bachelor - identifying him as 'not-married'
HOW WAS IT MADE? The algorithm was developed by mathematicians from ITMO in Saint Petersburg, Russia and National University of Singapore. The team gathered social media data from Twitter, Instagram and Four Square. They separated the data into sets, or vectors, of such parameters as an average tweet size, the most frequent objects in the photo, check-in distribution and so on. One of the researches fed the data to the algorithm and then input the information into the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. The scales describe a person in terms of how he or she interacts with the world, which is easiest to learn through their social media accounts. Advertisement
The algorithm was developed by mathematicians from ITMO in Saint Petersburg, Russia and National University of Singapore.
The team combined data from Twitter, Instagram and Foursquare to teach the system to make predictions.
And they found that the AI is capable of predicting marital status with 86 percent precision, which is 17 percent higher than using just one social network.
To demonstrate how the program operates, Andrey Filchenkov, associate professor of Computer Technology Department at ITMO University, collected and analyzed tweets of Barack Obama and Donald Trump, the 44th and 45th Presidents of the United States.
Using this data, the AI confirmed that Obama was married, but concluded that Trump was a bachelor.
However, the researchers said that this irregularity can be explained, as Trump himself does not always update his own social media accounts.
'We all know about his wife Melania,' said the researcher, 'But in this case, we are studying whether all Trump's assistants are married or not.'
'We are not guessing who Trump is, but who runs his social media.'
In order to train the algorithm to understand the data input, researches turned the social media activity of users in New York, Singapore and London into sets, or vectors, of such parameters as an average tweet size, the most frequent objects in the photo, check-in distribution and so on.
However, the researchers said that this irregularity can be explained, as Trump himself does not always update his own social media accounts. His assistants will share tweets on his behalf, which could mean they are the single ones
Then developers used these vectors in basic machine learning models.
One of the researches fed the data to the algorithm and then input the information into the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, which is a scale of psychological types based on Jung theses.
When analyzing the data, the scale describes a person in terms of how he or she interacts with the world, which is easiest to learn through their social media accounts.
Many of Donald Trump's tweets that are deemed outrageous have been shared in the early hours of the day. For example, this tweet was shared at 2:07 AM
The AI determined that Trump was unmarried because it believed his tweets sounded as if he was a bachelor
'Many scientific sources associate a person psychological type with his marital status,' said Kseniya Buraya, a researcher at ITMO University's and co-author of the paper.
'So, we decided to check how precisely we can predict this parameter to use it for making human psychological portraits in the future'.
User profiling, according to the scientists, can have a wide range of applications.
Researches fed data from Barack Obama's and Trump's twitter accounts. But Trump was found to be 'not-married' due to the style of his tweets
Although Trump's style of tweeting suggested he is a bachelor, the researchers explained that his assistants also post tweets from his account
For example, recruiters can learn more about people who are applying for a job.
More generally, characterizing personality through activity in social media will help discover illegal groups as well as find people prone to depression or suicide and support them.
Although the AI was wrong in predicting Trumps marital status, The Donald has shown behavior that has made people question his marriage.
To demonstrate how the program operates, the team collected and analyzed tweets of Barack Obama (pictured) and Donald Trump, the 44th and 45th Presidents of the United States. Using this data, the AI confirmed that Obama was married, but concluded that Trump was a bachelor
Earlier this month an incident occurred when Trump would not hold his wife Melanias hand in public, but body language expert believe it is his way to be seen as a presidential alpha.
'Typically a hand-hold shows a couple as a unit,' body language expert Patti Wood told the DailyMail.com.
'But to me, I think he's been saying, "I want to be seen as the president on my own", which is very much alpha. "I want to be just the powerful me." And it's clear that that's his choice.'
Footage from the trip to Florida earlier this month, shows first Lady Melania was at first all smiles as she waited patiently to be reunited with her husband after his whirlwind week in Washington.
She gave the president a kiss when he got off the plane, in what was her first public appearance since Trump's inauguration.
Melania went to hold his hand as they made their way across the tarmac, but Trump then appeared to drop his wife's hand twice.
The couple initially walked behind a car on the tarmac while holding hands.
'Holding hands can communicate so much about an individual and a couple, depending on the position of the hands, who reaches in first, who breaks it first,' Wood, who has written a book on body language and first impressions, said.
'What's fascinating, I think to all of us, is that they're holding hands at all.'
'They hold hands in private, so we know that there's a coupleness that we weren't seeing in public or at the inauguration.'
Last week, an eerie ring of fire rose over the Southern Hemisphere as the moon passed in front of the sun in an annular solar eclipse.
Stunning footage from space now reveals the phenomenon cast a shadow over Earths surface.
Images from NASAs Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer show the massive shadow as the moon blocked sunlight over the Atlantic Ocean, creating what appears like a large ink-blotch just off the coast of South America.
The animation from NASAs DSCOVR Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera shows what this phenomenon looked like from space
'RING OF FIRE' ECLIPSE While other eclipses see the moon temporarily block the sun's light completely, in an annular eclipse the moon is too far from Earth. This means it's positioned perfectly to allow a ring of light or 'fire' to burst through - to spectacular effect. Advertisement
The annular eclipse was visible from the southern tip of South America all the way to southern Africa.
In one of these events, the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking the light but, at this distance, it doesnt obscure it completely.
This creates the appearance of a ring of fire.
An animation from NASAs DSCOVR Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera shows what this phenomenon looked like from space.
While most of Earth appears normal, the waters between South America and Africa are marred by a large shadow.
While most of Earth appears normal, the waters between South America and Africa are marred by a large shadow. As seen in the animation, the clouds and surface below appear yellow-ish brown
Last week, an eerie ring of fire rose over the Southern Hemisphere as the moon passed in front of the sun in an annular solar eclipse. Stunning footage from space now reveals the phenomenon cast a shadow over Earths surface
Different views from the satellites show the shadows movement across the area.
An image from the Terra satellite caught the phenomenon over Patagonia at around 13:20 Universal Time (10:20 a.m. local time) on Feb. 26. 2017.
The surface and clouds beneath the huge shadow appear to be yellow-ish brown.
And, another view from the Aqua satellite shows the event over the South Atlantic Ocean at around 15:55 UT (12:55 p.m. local time).
An image from the Terra satellite caught the phenomenon over Patagonia at around 13:20 Universal Time (10:20 a.m. local time) on Feb. 26. 2017. The surface and clouds beneath the huge shadow appear to be yellow-ish brown
Another view from the Aqua satellite shows the event over the South Atlantic Ocean at around 15:55 UT (12:55 p.m. local time). Stargazers in South America were treated to the rare event on Sunday
Stargazers in South America were treated to the rare event on Sunday.
Stunning pictures from Brazil and Chile show the moon coming between the Earth and the sun to create the spectacular ring of fire.
More than half a billion people across the world had the opportunity to see the annular eclipse, which first passed through, Chile and Argentina before moving across the South Atlantic Ocean to Africa.
The moment of greatest eclipse occurred midway between the two continents at just before 10am ET (3pm GMT) when the moon covered more than 99 per cent of the sun.
More than half a billion people across the world had the opportunity to see the annular eclipse, which first passed through, Chile and Argentina before moving across the South Atlantic Ocean to Africa. The composite image shows the progression of the annular eclipse
These stunning pictures from Brazil and Chile show the moon coming between the Earth and the Sun, blocking most light of its light save for a 'ring of fire' around the moon. This picture was taken in Coyhaique, Chile
It ended just afte 5:30 p.m. GMT on Sunday in southern Africa - between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Later this year, the moon will completely block out the sun, in a total solar eclipse.
This will take place on August 21, 2017, and will cross the United States from Oregon to South Carolina.
Ride hailing company Uber Technologies has for years used a secret tool to deceive the authorities in markets where its service faced resistance by law enforcement or was banned, the New York Times reported, citing sources.
An Uber tool called Greyball used data collected from the Uber app and other methods to find and circumvent officials, the NYT reported on Friday.
The service was able to show them a fake app populated with 'ghost' cars and cancel their rides.
Uber has for years used a secret tool to deceive the authorities in markets where its service faced resistance by law enforcement or was banned, the New York Times has claimed.
HOW IT WORKS In one example, Uber was able to create a 'fake' service to fool investigators. Some of the digital cars they saw in the app did not represent actual vehicles, the NYT says. Uber drivers they were able to hail also quickly canceled, as Uber had 'greyballed' them as city officials based on data collected from the app and in other ways. The company then served up a fake version of the app populated with ghost cars, to evade capture. Advertisement
Asked about the existence of Greyball, Uber said in an email, 'This program denies ride requests to fraudulent users who are violating our terms of service - whether that's people aiming to physically harm drivers, competitors looking to disrupt our operations, or opponents who collude with officials on secret 'stings' meant to entrap drivers.'
A current Uber employee familiar with the program confirmed to Reuters that Uber had used antifraud techniques to hunt for suspected undercover law enforcement and regulators.
The person said Greyball had not been used in the United States in more than a year.
The New York Times said Uber used the methods to evade authorities in cities including Boston, Paris and Las Vegas, and in countries like Australia, China, Italy and South Korea.
Greyball, which began as early as 2014, was part of a program called 'Violation of terms of service' (VTOS), aimed at finding people the ride-hailing company thought were using the app improperly, the newspaper reported.
It said Greyballing started as a way to scramble the locations of UberX drivers to prevent competitors from finding them, and Uber said that was still the tools primary use.
It says Greyball was approved by Ubers legal team.
UBER'S PORTLAND GREYBALL Ubers use of Greyball was recorded on video in late 2014, when Erich England, a code enforcement inspector in Portland, Ore., tried to hail an Uber car downtown as part of a sting operation against the company. He found cars cancelled on him, and suddenly none were available. 'There were two drivers that were available, and they both cancelled on me,' he said in the Oregonian video. At the time, Uber had just started its ride-hailing service in Portland without seeking permission from the city, which later declared the service illegal. Advertisement
Greyball and the broader VTOS program were described by four current and former Uber employees, who also provided documents, the NYT said.
It is the latest in a series of problems for Uber.
The Uber driver who filmed his argument with the company's CEO, Travis Kalanick, this week spoke out to explain why he confronted the executive.
Fawzi Kamel, 37, picked up Uber CEO Travis Kalanick, 40, on Super Bowl Sunday in San Francisco, and once he realized who his passenger was, he took him to task for lowering rates for the company's drivers. In the confrontation, Kalanick snapped, saying the accusation was 'bulls***,' before getting out and slamming the door.
After the incident, Kamel turned the video over to Bloomberg, which published the clip on Tuesday.
Fawzi Kamel, right, recorded his argument with Uber CEO Travis Kalanick (center), while giving him a ride in San Francisco earlier this month
KALANICK'S APOLOGY TO STAFF Team, To say that I am ashamed is an extreme understatement. My job as your leader is to lead...and that starts with behaving in a way that makes us all proud. That is not what I did, and it cannot be explained away. Its clear this video is a reflection of meand the criticism weve received is a stark reminder that I must fundamentally change as a leader and grow up. This is the first time Ive been willing to admit that I need leadership help and I intend to get it. I want to profoundly apologize to Fawzi, as well as the driver and rider community, and to the Uber team. Advertisement
In an interview with NBC News, Fawzi explained what caused him to complain directly to the company's chief executive.
'Uber kept dropping prices every season to gain more ridership to satisfy their growth, and it didn't matter to Uber if the driver is not even making minimum wage,' he said. 'And the worst part is, they call us partners, [but] they make the rules, set the price and they even choose the cars you can use.'
Following the video's release, Kalanick was forced to issue an apology, saying he was 'ashamed' and needs to 'fundamentally change as a leader and grow up'.
Uber is already facing horrific allegations that sexism, racism and homophobia are commonplace throughout its offices from former female employees who say they were routinely harassed.
Kalanick has brought in former US Attorney General Eric Holder to investigate the accusations.
One woman, who aired her grievances anonymously in a blog post last week, said 'abusive attitudes' she was subjected to were fostered by the CEO.
On Monday it was revealed that one of Uber's senior executives failed to disclose a sexual assault allegation from his previous employer, Google. Kalanick asked for his resignation after discovering the allegation.
The company is also under fire from its Silicon Valley competitors. Google's self-driving car entity Waymo is suing Otto, Uber's version, for stealing its technology.
Allegations of sexual harassment were shared by former engineer Susan Fowler (left) earlier this month. Later it was revealed senior executive Amit Singhal had been accused of sexual assault at his previous job at Google. Kalanick asked for his resignation
In a lawsuit obtained by DailyMail.com, lawyers allege that Uber engineers stole 14,000 documents which map out Waymo's lidar technologies.
Lidar is the network of lasers which map out the world around self-driving cars, allowing them to navigate themselves without drivers.
Kalanick also bore the brunt of a user boycott earlier in the year. Thousands deleted the app en masse in protest of its response to demonstrations against Trump's immigration ban at New York's JFK Airport.
While New York taxis stopped running as a show of solidarity to the protesters, Uber carried on operating but lifted the surcharge it normally applies when demand is high.
Many viewed the move as an attempt to capitalize on the gap despite Uber's intention to do exactly the opposite.
Kalanick later stepped down from Trump's economic advisory council as a result of the row.
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Vertigo-inducing footage shows a mountaineer climbing a terrifyingly vertical peak.
Norwegian explorer Tormod Granheim filmed himself ascending Schreckhorn mountain in Switzerland - and the result is exhilarating.
Mr Granheim, 42, faces directly into the vertical rock face, a dramatic drop either side and below him, as he uses his bare hands to clamber upwards.
Norwegian explorer Tormod Granheim filmed himself ascending Schreckhorn mountain in Switzerland - and the result is exhilarating
Mr Granheim, 42, faces directly into the vertical rock face, a dramatic drop either side and below him, as he uses his bare hands to clamber upwards
As he pauses, the viewer is afforded a glimpse of the amazing scenery of the Bernese Alps before Mr Granheim continues with his challenge.
He places his hands on the summit and can be seen negotiating where to place his feet.
It's a precarious process and when he looks directly downwards the full extent of the dangerous feat is clear.
The short clip ends as the daredevil looks up at the rock ahead which towers above him.
Mr Granheim - who also describes himself as a skier, motivational speaker and defence consultant - uploaded the clip to Facebook, tagging his friend and fellow-daredevil with the post: 'Feeling adventurous with Jacob Waerness,' and a grinning emoji.
As he pauses the viewer is afforded a glimpse of the amazing scenery of the Bernese Alps before Granheim continues with his challenge
It's a precarious process and when he looks directly downwards the full extent of the dangerous feat is clear
Mr Granheim, who grew up in a small village outside of Oslo, has previously said: 'I've always been very inspired by people who are pushed to their limits'
He places his hands on the summit and can be seen negotiating where to place his feet
The short clip ends as Granheim looks up at the rock ahead which towers above him
The adventurer recently revealed at an event attended by MailOnline Travel where his passion for adventure started. Granheim, who grew up in a small village outside of Oslo, said: 'I've always been very inspired by people who are pushed to their limits.
'I remember one thing that really inspired me was this Rolex advert on the back of a National Geographic magazine.
'When I saw this ad I saw a man climbing into the unknown and I wanted to be this man.'
In a video for one of his main sponsors, Bergans of Norway, Granheim explains that mental strength is the main quality needed when traversing the unknown.
He also notes that it's important 'to have a very solid respect for the limits'.
His private life eclipsed his movie and political careers when it emerged he'd fathered a son with his housekeeper and kept it secret for 14 years.
The revelation cost Arnold Schwarzenegger his marriage of 25 years to Maria Shriver, but the 69-year-old says he's looking forward not back.
Arnold told April's Men's Journal he's focused on having a great relationship with Joseph Baena, 19, who was born to Schwarzenegger's former maid and ex-mistress Mildred Baena.
Looking forwards: Arnold Schwarzenegger told April's Men's Journal he's focused on having a great relationship with Joseph Baena, 19, who was born to his former maid and ex-mistress Mildred Baena
The Apprentice star, who covered the issue, explained of keeping the secret: 'You do think about it every so often. I can beat myself up as much as I want - it's not gonna change the situation. So the key thing is, how do you move forward? How do you have a great relationship with your kids?'
He admits regret over the affair, saying: 'You can't go back - if I could, in reality, be Terminator, of course I would go back in time and would say, 'Arnold... no.' '
He adds: 'You know, it's always easy to be smart in hindsight. That's not the way it works.'
Arnold shared a post celebrating the teen's 19th birthday, in October, on Instagram.
'Happy birthday, Joseph. Great student, great athlete. I'm proud of you and I love you!' the Terminator actor wrote at the time.
Modern family: Arnold shared a post celebrating the teen's 19th birthday, in October, on Instagram
In 2011, Schwarzenegger admitted to being Joseph's father after being confronted by Shriver.
Together the couple have four children - Katherine, 27, Christina, 25, Patrick, 23, and Christopher, 19.
Joseph was born just one week after Schwarzenegger's youngest son with Shriver, Christopher.
The bodybuilder claimed he had no idea Joseph was his son until he was about 7 or 8 and began to resemble him, he told 60 Minutes in 2012.
'You can't go back - if I could, in reality, be Terminator, of course I would go back in time and would say, 'Arnold ... no,'' he told Men's Journal, adding: 'You know, it's always easy to be smart in hindsight. That's not the way it works.'
Better hair though: Arnold Schwarzenegger took the helm of Celebrity Apprentice and found himself slated by President Trump for the ratings
More recently, Schwarzenegger found himself in the firing line of President Trump, after ratings with him as the replacement host on Celebrity Apprentice came in lower than the leader of the free world's.
'Wow, the ratings are in, and Arnold Schwarzenegger got 'swamped' (or destroyed) by comparison to the ratings machine, DJT,' Trump tweeted.
The President also wrote, despite being listed as an executive producer of the show: 'So much for....being a movie star - and that was season 1 compared to season 14. Now compare him to my season 1. But who cares, he supported Kasich & Hillary.'
The Kindergarten Cop star recalled to the publication his response to the criticism: 'Don't get into a stinking contest with a skunk.'
The former Governor of California also posted a video in response. saying: 'Hey Donald, I have a great idea. Why don't we switch jobs? You take over TV, because you're such an expert in ratings, and I take over your job and then people can finally sleep comfortably again.'
Marital split: With ex-wife Maria Shriver, he has Katherine, 27, Christina, 25, Patrick, 23, and Christopher, 19 (picture from December 2016)
Something memorable is about to go down with the funny females on Modern Family, as per usual.
Stars Sofia Vergara, Julie Bowen, Sarah Hyland, Ariel Winter and Aubrey Anderson-Emmons were spotted filming a scene on Wednesday for an upcoming episode of the popular ABC sitcom.
The ladies were supposedly on their way to a Women's March when Sofia's character's car breaks down, forcing them to all fix it.
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The ladies! The females of Modern Family got together on Wednesday to shoot a scene for the popular ABC sitcom
Girl power seemed to be the theme of the episode as Ariel, who plays Alex Dunphy on the show, was seen wearing a light blue sweatshirt with the writing: 'To Femininity & Beyond.'
The 26-year-old star, Sarah, was also dressed in warm clothing wearing distressed denim overalls, a bomber jacket and a pink winter hat.
The Colombian beauty, 44, had a big smile plastered across her face as she covered up in a cream-colored pea coat, dark jeans and bright pink heels.
Julie, 46, wore a striped shirt, jeans and a vest as Aubrey, nine, wore a heart-printed shirt, denim skirt and patterned leggings.
Girl power: The plot seemed to revolve around Sofia Vergara's character's car that broke down on their way to a Women's March
'Femininity and Beyond': Ariel Winter donned a light blue sweatshirt on set that read 'To Femininity & Beyond' as Sarah Hyland covered up in denim overalls, bomber jacket and pink winter hat
Fun: The 44-year-old Colombian beauty wore a cream-colored pea coat on set paired with dark denim jeans and hot pink heels
The ladies of the show were having a grand old time, evidenced by a snap on Wednesday shared by Sofia on Instagram.
'Girls shoot!! [heart emoji],' Vergara wrote, with an image of the ladies in a set van traveling to location.
Meanwhile, the cast is currently wrapping up season eight of filming.
Good times: The stars were shooting an episode for season eight, as it wraps this week
Co-star cuties: Nine-year-old Aubrey Anderson-Emmons smiled while on set wearing a heart-shaped shirt, denim skirt and patterned leggings
The Hollywood Reporter recently learned that six actors on the sitcom have yet to begin negotiating contracts as season nine has not been announced.
The outlet reported that the hold-up is between 20th Century Fox and ABC over the cost of the show.
Although the show has not win an Emmy in two years, it still remains primetime's No. 2 behind Big Bang Theory.
What will happen? Fans will await to see this upcoming episode on ABC
It's the show that sees everyday people critiquing the latest programs on television.
And on Thursday's Gogglebox Australia, the cast did not hold back when it came to judging the Real Housewives of Sydney's Matty Samaei's lips.
'She can't talk properly,' Grant Jackson said, while Matt Dalton added that the 43-year-old socialite looked 'like a cartoon character.'
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'She can't talk properly': Gogglebox Australia stars mocked RHOS' Matty Samaei's lips on Thursday's episode, claiming the 43-year-old socialite looked 'like a cartoon character'
'I'm Matty Samaei, and I'm from Double Bay,' the reality star shared to camera.
'Did she say she's from Batto Bay, or Dubbo Bay?' Britney Jackson joked.
'I don't know 'cause she can't talk properly, ' father Grant chimed in.
Not holding back: 'Did she say she's from Batto Bay, or Dubbo Bay?' Britney Jackson (left) joked
Antics: 'I don't know 'cause she can't talk properly, ' father Grant chimed in
'Her lips hit the door before she opens the door!' Keith noted.
'Like a cartoon character,' Matt Dalton is heard saying as well.
However it appears Matty has no qualms in talking about her altered appearance.
'I've had my lips done, but my hair is real,' Matty said playfully to camera.
Hilarious: 'Her lips hit the door before she opens the door!' Keith notes
'Like a cartoon character': Matt Dalton is also seen joking about the star's appearance
Confident: However it appears Matty has no qualms in talking about her altered appearance. 'I've had my lips done, but my hair is real,' the mother-of-two says playfully to camera
Matty stars in the highly-anticipated Sydney franchise of the Real Housewives.
Residing in Sydney's exclusive suburb of Bellevue Hill, she's a proud mother to two children and a beauty expert.
Matty stars alongside fellow housewives Athena X Levendi, Krissy Marsh, Lisa Oldfield, Melissa Tkautz, Nicole O'Neil and Victoria Rees.
He's the radio star renowned for never being afraid to ask a controversial question.
And now Kyle Sandilands' colleagues have revealed he actually has quite a temper on and off air.
The 45-year-old was sitting down with co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson and the face of Saturday night's Mardi Gras television coverage Joel Creasey, when he told of an incident from during his time at 2Day FM.
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Quite a temper! Kyle Sandilands' colleagues have revealed some of his hot headed moments in a hilarious segment on KIIS FM on Friday morning
Talking about Faye Dunaway and THAT epic Oscars moment, the conversation soon moved on to how she was a renowned Hollywood diva - much like Kyle.
'People say that about me, but Im a very nice guy,' the KIIS FM star said.
'People always come in and say "wow, I was terrified to meet you and you couldnt be nicer".'
Revealing: Kyle himself admitted to throwing a chair through a window during his time at 2Day FM, before a colleague told of a time he threw a coffee at a wall
Diva! Talking with comedian Joel Creasey (pictured) about Faye Dunaway and THAT epic Oscars moment, the conversation soon moved to he rbeing a Hollywood diva - much like Kyle
Throwing it open to his colleagues to challenge, Kyle told how his producers literally ran towards the microphone to prove him wrong.
'Yeah I think the first week I worked with you, you threw a full coffee at a wall,' his co-worker Bruno said.
It seemed at that stage, Kyle may realised he may not be as much of a saint as he first thought.
'There was that time at 2Day FM when I through the chair through the glass window,' he admitted with a laugh.
Colourful character: 'There was that time at 2Day FM when I through the chair through the glass window,' Kyle (pictured with girlfriend Imogen Anthony) admitted with a laugh
Curious: A day earlier Kyle (left) was back to asking the awkward questions during an interview with Richard Wilkins' (far right) son 'Prince' Christian (right) on Thursday
A day earlier Kyle was back to asking the awkward questions during an interview with Richard Wilkins' son 'Prince' Christian on Thursday.
The radio host appeared fascinated by rumours surrounding the impressive size of the Today reporter's manhood.
'Why is he so c*** shy, your father?' Kyle bluntly asked the 21-year-old on Thursday.
'I think it's one of those topics where it's more important what other people say about your asset than what you say about your own asset,' Prince answered coyly.
Awkward! Prince laughed at Kyle's bizarre line of questioning and revealed his dad had called him before the interview to give him a heads up
Rumours or truth? Last month, the 62-year-old's allegedly impressive manhood was discussed on-air when Kyle declared: 'Richard Wilkins is renowned for his huge penis'
Earlier in the conversation, Kyle was very forthright in questioning Prince regarding his father's allegedly large anatomy.
'What's the real go? Because it's legendary amongst the Australian-Italian business, who's got the biggest d**k? Richard Wilkins, hands down,' Kyle claimed.
'It's a two-hander!' he added in disbelief.
Prince laughed awkwardly at the thought of discussing his father's penis on radio, telling the hosts he'd been warned about their line of questioning by Richard himself.
Ladies' man: Richard has had a string of relationships with high-profile personalities in the past, and welcomed his son Christian (pictured) with his second wife Michelle Burke
'He called me five minutes ago and he was like, "So Kyle, he might ask you about my penis, what are you going to say?"' Prince revealed.
The bizarre conversation comes just weeks after Kyle gushed about the 62-year-old's 'huge penis' on the show.
'Richard Wilkins is renowned for his huge penis,' the shock jock said last month.
It's been 16 years since The Princess Diaries first hit movie screens, and following the success of its sequel, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement in 2004, Julie Andrews has revealed fans may be gifted with a third installment.
According to the veteran actress, both she and Anne Hathaway are keen on collaborating once again for the Disney fan favorite.
'Theres talk about it,' the 81-year-old star told BuzzFeed. 'And [Anne's] very keen to do it. I would very willingly and happily do it.'
The royal treatment: Julie Andrews reveals she and Anne Hathaway have spoken about reuniting for a third Princess Diaries movie
It's not the first time discussion of a sequel has emerged.
The film's late director, Garry Marshall, last year claimed he was onboard to make a third movie in the hit franchise.
'I was with Anne Hathaway a couple weeks ago, it looks like we want to do Princess Diaries 3 in Manhattan,' he told People in March last year. 'Anne Hathaway is very pregnant, so we have to wait until she has the baby and then I think were going to do it.'
Crowning glory: Fans of the hit movies will be thrilled by the news the film's stars are keen to make another sequel
Movie makeover: Julie and Anne - seen here with co-star Larry Miller - are keen to resume their royal duties on the big screen
However following the 81-year-old's sudden death in July last year, all plans for another sequel were seemingly shelved - until now.
'I think we might do it in honor of him,' added Julie. 'Annie had an idea that she wanted to pursue about it, and I'm all for it, so if she'd like to...'
While Anne has so far kept quiet on the reports of a sequel, she did mark Garry's death with a touching post on Instagram, proving the film and its cast and crew are never far from her heart.
Gone but not forgotten: The Oscar-winning actress shared this heartfelt post on Instagram following Garry Marshall's death last year
'I couldnt sleep last night,' the 34-year-old captioned a black and white photo of herself with the acclaimed director and Julie on Instagram. 'The moon was too bright and my heart was too full of fresh grief at Garrys passing.'
While it's still not known who would direct the third film instead, Grey's Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes, 47, wrote the script for The Princess Diaries 2.
The Princess Diaries follows Mia Thermopolis, an average high school student, who unexpectedly discovers she's a princess after her grandmother, the queen of Genovia appears in her life.
Londoner Cynthia Erivo certainly made a glittering impression at the Oscars.
On Saturday night, the RADA graduate (who won a best musical actress Tony for The Color Purple in 2016) joined American actor Chris Jackson to sing three numbers from Lin-Manuel Mirandas musical In The Heights, at Harvey Weinsteins annual pre-Oscar party at the Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills.
Weinsteins planning a screen version of the show that has played both Broadway and London.
Ms Erivo really let go with In The Heights infectious Latin rhythms, and I could see guests Nicole Kidman, Beyonce, Jay Z, Dev Patel (and Anita, his lovely mum) in fact the whole room moving to the beat.
Londoner Cynthia Erivo, pictured right, certainly made a glittering impression at the Oscars
The affair was sponsored by vodka firm Grey Goose, but I was amused to see Mr Carter (Jay Z) sipping a glass of Armand de Brignac . . . which he just happens to own. Apparently, he sent a few bottles of the champagne on to the hotel earlier in the day so he wouldnt be thirsty. I guess thats fine. I mean, I always travel with a supply of Fortnum & Masons Orange Pekoe tea bags.
Anyway, the next day Sunday Cynthia was on the Oscars red carpet, adorned with Tiffany gems. And a few hours later, she was in a gold lame gown, singing with the band at the Governors Ball.
The inexhaustible lady then hit the dance floor with Lucas Hedges (pictured left) the Oscar-nominated young actor from Manchester By The Sea, who was soon on the red eye back to New York to continue in the excellent production of Anna Jordans play Yen.
Meanwhile, Cynthias rehearsing with newly-minted Oscar winner Viola Davis, Daniel Kaluuya, Elizabeth Debicki, Andre Holland and Michelle Rodriguez for Steve McQueens big-screen version of the Lynda La Plante TV drama Widows. Iain Canning and Emile Sherman (the producers behind Lion) are putting it together with London-born director McQueen.
SWEENEY TODD IS PIPING HOT Jeremy Secomb and Siobhan McCarthy Stephen Sondheim led the cheers for Rachel Edwardss Tooting Arts Club production of Sweeney Todd. Its relocated to Barrow Street Theatre in Greenwich Village (transformed into a pie shop by designer Simon Kenny). It is a piping hot smash hit, starring Brits Jeremy Secomb and Siobhan McCarthy. Advertisement
WHY SALLY'S IN A FIELD OF HER OWN
Joe Mantello, the director returning to his acting roots, is compelling as Tom
Sally Field all 5ft 3in of her has to haul a wheelchair up from the stalls onto the stage of Broadways Belasco Theatre.
Its a brilliant moment that serves a dual purpose. It shows, for starters, that Fields Amanda Wingfield from Tennessee Williamss play The Glass Menagerie is indefatigable. And the wheelchair isnt an idle prop. Madison Ferris, playing Amandas daughter Laura, is disabled, like her character, which adds a layer of realism to the piece.
Sam Golds stripped-back production is riveting. Joe Mantello, the director returning to his acting roots, is compelling as Tom, as is Finn Wittrock as the gentleman caller. But its Field who commands. Watching her is like getting a shot of adrenaline.
Im lucky to have seen both Cherry Jones (now in the London production) and Ms Field play Amanda, and both were luminous. The best actress category for the Tony awards in June will be sizzling!
She's one of the most sought after Victoria's Secret Angels.
And Sara Sampaio, 25, lived up to her reputation as she led the glamour at the Vogue Thailand & Angelys Balek dinner as part of Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2017 on Thursday night.
The stunner posed up a storm on arrival at the Loulou Club in a luxurious black, gold and blue sequin minidress.
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Glamorous: Sara Sampaio, 25, lived up to her reputation as she led the glamour at the Vogue Thailand & Angelys Balek dinner as part of Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2017 on Thursday night
The plunging garment was decorated with two roaring golden lions and glistened underneath the bright lights.
The thigh-skimming dress showed off Sara's lithe limbs which were accentuated by a pair of black heels.
She wore her raven locks in a trio of plaits tied tightly back while her eyes were decorated with a heavy, smoky shadow.
Lavish: The stunner posed up a storm on arrival at the Loulou Club in a luxurious black, gold and blue sequin minidress
Glam: The plunging garment was decorated with two roaring golden lions and glistened underneath the bright lights
Smouldering: Sara wore her raven locks in a trio of plaits tied tightly back while her eyes were decorated with a heavy, smoky shadow
Taking a leaf out of Sara's book: French model Cindy Bruna looked to have chosen a dress from the same collection as Sara, with the item boasting a matching colour scheme and similar sequin work
Matching: The two beauties looked flawless stood side by side
Girl power: The pair looked fierce as they gazed intently into the camera
Centre of attention: Host Angelys Balek joined Sara as did Maxim Sapozhnikov
Her lips were coated in a pale pink shade and her defined cheekbones were contoured to exaggerate their shape.
Controversial rapper Azealia Banks made an appearance in a lively bandeau gown and black evening gloves.
French model Cindy Bruna looked to have chosen a dress from the same collection as Sara, with the item boasting a matching colour scheme and similar sequin work.
Standing out from the crowd: Controversial rapper Azealia Banks made an appearance in a lively bandeau gown and black evening gloves
Happy! Azealia looked to be in a good place, smiling brightly upon arrival
Dressed to impress: Azealia and Angelys both pulled out all the stops with their outfit choices
Sonia Ben Ammar wore a classy black ensemble with a vibrant slick of rouge on her lips
Classy: Actress Kat Graham looked great in an understated black dress which she matched with an equally stylish box clutch
Brooklyn Beckham's ex Sonia Ben Ammar wore a classy black ensemble with a vibrant slick of rouge on her lips.
Actress Kat Graham looked great in an understated black dress which she matched with an equally stylish box clutch.
Models Lauren de Graaf and Susanne Knipper dressed in edgy ensembles, with the former donning a black dress with cut out panels and heavy duty boots, while the latter wore red leather trousers and a metallic top.
He's modelling's 'It' boy, known just as much for his high-flying lifestyle as his impressive jawline.
And Jordan Barrett perfected the off-duty look as he arrived at Paris Fashion Week on Wednesday, ahead of H&M's women's runway show.
The 20-year-old Byron Bay-born star, sported an all-black ensemble of a round neck shirt, cuffed trousers, a zip-up jacket left undone, and coordinating sneakers.
He's got street cred! Modelling's 'It' boy Jordan Barrett, 20, perfected the off-duty look in an all-black ensemble, as he arrived at Paris Fashion Week on Wednesday
Jordan highlighted his model figure in head-to-toe black.
A round-neck T-shirt was teamed with a pair of cuffed trousers that accentuated his lean legs.
Accessorising with a black zip-up jacket left undone and coordinating sneakers, a delicate gold necklace added a touch of bling.
Sporting a blemish-free complexion, Jordan's volumised blonde locks worked as his best asset, framing his striking facial features.
In style: A round-neck T-shirt was teamed with a pair of cuffed trousers that accentuated his lean legs
Details: Accessorising with a black zip-up jacket left undone and coordinating sneakers, a delicate gold necklace added a touch of bling
Mane appeal: Sporting a blemish-free complexion, Jordan's volumised blonde locks worked as his best asset, framing his striking facial features
Jordan was discovered at age 14 by a model scout working for international agency IMG.
The chance meeting took place when he was caught stealing matches from a convenience store.
Jordan told New York Magazine about the incident: 'I wanted to have a cigarette, but I couldn't get a lighter because apparently you have to be over 18, so I decided I was gonna take matches from the counter.'
Taking the modelling industry by storm, the genetically blessed star graced the runway for Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino and Versace at Milan Fashion Week.
Jordan has also proved to be a hit with some of the world's leading ladies, spotted getting cosy with Megan Blake Irwin, Hailey Baldwin and Lara Stone.
Chance encounter: Jordan was discovered at age 14 by a model scout working for international modelling agency IMG
Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain and DJ Zoe Ball have been pictured as the new hosts of the BBC's newest cookery show - which will air later in the year.
Going directly up against Channel 4's reincarnation of The Great British Bake Off - after they bought the format from the BBC last summer - the show has been titled The Big Family Cooking Showdown.
Throwing baking to the wayside and opening the spectrum up much wider, the latest foodie series will pit families against one another, rather than individuals, and feature all types of cooking methods.
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Pictured: Nadiya Hussain and Zoe Ball pose for a promo shot for BBC's The Big Family Cooking Showdown to rival The Great British Bake Off... following its move to Channel 4
It will launch in the autumn on BBC Two and bring chefs Giorgio Locatelli and Rosemary Shrager in to judge.
Locatelli, 53, and Shrager, 66, are taking over from Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry and decide which families will be whittled down through a series of challenges.
Hussain, 32, has carved out a successful career in food programmes since winning The Great British Bake Off in 2015, and Ball is the annual face of Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two.
The Chronicles Of Nadiya star Hussain said: 'Family and food have always gone hand in hand and I'm looking forward to getting to know the recipes and traditions of the different families taking part.
They've turned up the heat: GBBO champ Nadiya has been a firm favourite for the line-up
New faces: Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two host Ball and chefs Giorgio Locatelli and Rosemary Shrager will judge
'Having been through a food competition as an amateur cook myself, I know exactly how tough it can get and so I'll be there for them, alongside Zoe, as the pressure really builds.'
The Big Family Cooking Showdown, which was first announced last year under the working title The Big Family Cooking Challenge, will see 16 families from around the UK compete against each other with challenges set in their kitchens at home and at the programme's studio.
Ball, 46, said: 'It's time to celebrate passionate foodie families all over the country and this series will show us home cooking at its best, even if it's using old pans and mismatched crockery.
From competitor to presenter: Hussain, who has carved out a successful career in food programmes since winning The Great British Bake Off in 2015, will present the competition
It's over: After the rival network bought the format for 25 million per year, Berry and presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins sensationally quit, pledging their allegiance to the BBC
'We're meeting 16 very different families over the course of the show and witnessing their team dynamics.
'I'm not the world's best cook as my kids will vouch but I'm learning so much from these families and from Nadiya.'
The families taking part will showcase their favourite home recipes during the series which will have 12 one-hour episodes.
Locatelli said: 'I strongly believe that cooking at home is at the base of healthy family relationships.
New format: The Big Family Cooking Showdown is the latest foodie series to be commissioned by the broadcaster and will launch in the autumn on BBC2 in a search to find the UK's best family of cooks
As they were: Locatelli, 53, and Shrager, 66, are taking over from Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry and decide which families will be whittled down through a series of challenges
'For Rosemary and I to be given the opportunity to taste people's family dishes within their home is such an honour.
'I am looking forward to exploring people's heritage through the dishes they prepare.'
Shrager said: 'It's wonderful to be meeting families with their own recipes and to be judging good honest family food.
'I'm hoping to be inspired and surprised by the dishes these families cook at home to put a smile on each other's faces.
Winning: The last ever winner of The Great British Bake Off while it aired on the BBC was Candice Brown
'We'll be searching for a household where food is at the heart of their family, with kitchen duties and recipes shared between the generations.'
The big wigs at the BBC will surely be hoping they're new show - which, in effect, is an expanded version of the Bake Off format - will become the nationally loved hit that its predecessor was.
A show insider said: It is a warm, old-fashioned family entertainment show, but has a strong competitive element just like Bake Off.
And in the same way the Great British Bake Off was a slow-burner, so the hope is that this series goes to viewers hearts and becomes a hit.
New girls: Zoe and Nadiya will be taking Mel and Sue's places as show hosts
Mary 2.0: Channel 4's version of The Great British Bake Off remains shrouded in mystery, with the likes of Prue Leith rumoured to be joining remaining judge Paul Hollywood on the show, in place of Mary Berry
Channel 4's version of The Great British Bake Off remains shrouded in mystery, with the likes of Prue Leith rumoured to be joining remaining judge Paul Hollywood on the show, in place of Mary Berry.
After the rival network bought the format for 25 million per year, Berry and presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins sensationally quit, pledging their allegiance to the BBC.
Hosts rumoured to be taking over from Mel & Sue include Davina McCall, Dawn French and Richard Ayoade.
He recently stormed off set after co-hosts mocked his 'stegosaurus' hairdo.
This time, Richard Wilkins, 62, has managed to keep his cool during an interview with Harry Potter actress Miriam Margolyes.
After the film star revealed she never used to like him, the Today reporter quipped: 'Thats all we have time for!' Before calming down enough to let the hilarious guest tell him what she really thought.
Shock! Harry Potter actress Miriam Margoyles shocked Today show host Richard Wilkins during an interview Friday, revealing she never used to like him
The hilarious interview took a turn after Miriam, 75, responded curiously to Richard complimenting her voice.
'I like your voice, actually. I like you better now than I used to,' she began her assessment.
The upfront comments caused co-hosts Karl Stefanovic and Lisa Wilkinson to erupt into laughter, as Richard turned his head in astonishment.
He then jokingly tried to cut the interview short before letting the guest continue.
Compliments to the host: The hilarious interview took a turn after Miriam, 75, responded curiously to Richard complimenting her voice.
'I like your voice': 'I like your voice, actually. I like you better now than I used to,' she began her assessment
'You mellowed and youre not just interested in you,' she said in a tone that implied that she didn't believe this was always the case.
Once again the co-hosts exploded into laughter as Richard stared at camera with a wry smile.
'Youve improved. You honestly have,' she also statement.
'He's like a fine wine!' Lisa joked in between laughs.
Erupted: 'You mellowed and youre not just interested in you,' she said as her co-hosts Karl Stefanovia and Lisa Wilkinson erupted into laughter
Keeping his cool, Richard replied: 'Well I always adored you, so there we go,' before his cast mates chose to change the subject.
They may have half-expected the Professor Sprout actress' unfiltered interview antics coming, after she had a strangely flirtatious interaction with Karl earlier in the chat.
'We've barely even scratched the surface,' the host said, after naming some of her career highlights.
'You can scratch my surface!' she quipped back with a cheeky smile.
Flirty: Earlier in the chat, Miriam replied to Karl saying they had only just 'scratched the surface' of her career, saying: 'You can scratch my surface!
The UK-born actress revealed that she now spends around half of her time living in Australia.
Her hilarious interview antics are better known in her home country, where she had earned several Graham Norton show call ups.
One conversation saw her slamming the film Mamma Mia for being 'dreadful' when she was sitting next to one of its stars in Dominic Cooper.
Well known: Her hilarious interview antics are better known in her home country, where she had earned several Graham Norton show call ups
Slammed! One conversation saw her slamming the film Mamma Mia for being 'dreadful' when she was sitting next to one of its stars in Dominic Cooper
Richard was impressive in his ability to take the honest feedback, after just recently storming off set in response to his co-hosts teasing him for his hair.
The awkward moment began after the show played a viral video of a toddler yelling at an apparent T-Rex visible off screen.
'Maybe it's Dickie's hair!' A giggling Sylvia said after the clip finished.
Impressive! Richard was impressive in his ability to take the honest feedback, after just recently storming off set in response to his co-hosts teasing him for his hair
She became a second-time mum just two months ago.
And it appears Teresa Palmer already has the juggling act down pat as she runs errands with sons Bodhi Rain, three, and Forest Sage, born in December.
The 31-year-old actress was spotted carrying her newborn in one arm while strolling with her firstborn in tow.
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Out with the boys! Teresa Palmer was spotted running errands in Hollywood with her toddler son Bodhi Rain and newborn Forest Sage
The Hacksaw Ridge star looked radiant in a ruffled yellow blouse as she was spotted in Hollywood on Thursday.
The stylish actress added jeans to her casual look, as well as a pair of light-coloured sandals.
Clutching onto her keys and a kid's jacket while carrying Forest on the same arm, the Adelaide-born beauty cut a relaxed figure as she crossed the street.
Juggling act: The 31-year-old actress balanced her two-month-old baby on one arm while also holding on to a jacket and keys
Teresa kept her eyes shielded from the bright sunshine with a pair of clear-framed sunglasses.
The new mum's blonde locks were worn out in natural waves, and she appeared to be makeup-free for the outing.
Young Bodhi wore a red T-shirt with light track pants as well as checkered Vans while walking alongside his mother.
Mum about town: The Hacksaw Ridge star and her husband Mark Webber welcomed their second son in December
Two-month-old Forest meanwhile, hung on his mother's arm while sporting a red one-piece suit.
Teresa and her husband Mark Webber, 36, welcomed their second son in December.
The blonde beauty recently took to her blog Your Zen Mama to encourage other women to embrace their mum bodies after giving birth.
Body confident: The Aussie actress shared a blog post to encourage women to embrace their post-pregnancy bodies
'Isn't it funny how easily we can forget to take a moment to celebrate our bodies!?' the actress began.
'We spend far too much time punishing ourselves over what we see as our sagging breasts, mum bums, cellulite, muffin tops, wobbly arms, thick thighs,' she added.
'In fact, take a moment right now to give your body thanks for creating life and nurturing that life,' the blonde encouraged.
The Australian actress turned 37 on Thursday.
And to celebrated her birthday, Rebel Wilson was attacked by stunt dogs on the set of Pitch Perfect 3.
The Hollywood star proudly took to social media to document the bizarre experience: 'My most hardcore stunt yet. I'm going to be attacked by dogs.'
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'My most hardcore stunt yet': Rebel Wilson celebrates her birthday by being attacked by dogs on set of Pitch Perfect 3 in a video posted to social media on Thursday
Happy birthday! The Australian actress turned 37 on Thursday
Willing to perform her own stunts, she was seen getting dressed in a large bite suit with sleeves to protect her from the dog's sharp teeth.
In the video she flailed her arms and shook her legs as she let out a scream while defending herself from two vicious German shepherds.
Exaggerating her actions for the rolling cameras, she yelled: 'Guys, a little help, seriously!'
Struggling to keep her balance as the police attack dogs dragged her to and fro, her face looked distressed as she kept readjusting her footing to remain standing.
'Guys, a little help, seriously!' In the video she flailed her arms and shook her legs as she let out a scream for help while defending herself from two vicious German shepherds
Distressed: Struggling to keep her balance as the police attack dogs dragged her to and fro, her face looked distressed as she kept readjusting her footing to remain standing
'Weighs like 80 pounds': It appears members of the military were on hand in case something went wrong, as the funnywoman put on a heavy protective suit before being set on by the trained dogs
It appears members of the military were on hand in case something went wrong, as they gave the order for the dogs to attack at the start of the brief clip.
Earlier on Snapchat the funnywoman showed a video of the cast and crew singing happy birthday to her from the outside set.
She later showed the process of getting dressed in her suit that she claimed 'weighs like 80 pounds.'
It followed with another video of the stunt scene being re-filmed, in which Rebel later joked to taking on the dangerous act: 'That's why I'm paid the big bucks.'
She has previously performed her own stunts, with a video emerging recently from the Pitch Perfect 3 set of Rebel kicking a stuntman in the groin.
Supporting cast: Rebel was sung happy birthday by the cast and crew on set, her trailer was decorated by her fellow Bellas and co-stars Shelly Regner, Elizabeth Banks and Ester Dean wrote touching posts on social media to the actress
While Rebel was working on her birthday, she claimed The Bellas decorated her trailer on set with balloons, streamers, posters and a pizza pinata.
Some of her fellow Bellas also took to Instagram to wish the Fat Amy star well wishes.
Shelly Regner (who plays Ashley in the Pitch Perfect series) posted a selfie with Rebel, writing: 'Crushing it with the birthday girl @rebelwilson . Happiest Day-o-Birth m'lady!'
Actress Elizabeth Banks (who plays Gail) captioned a colourful photo of the pair, with Rebel in pink angel wings: 'The happiest birthday to this OG Barden Bella and mermaid dancer. @rebelwilson.'
Ester Dean also happily shared a shout-out to the Australian actress: 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY My Main @rebelwilson.'
Pitch Perfect 3 is expected to be released in December 2017.
Coming soon: Pitch Perfect 3 is expected to be released in December 2017
She's midway through shooting the latest season of Made In Chelsea.
But Olivia Bentley was sure put her work to one side as she enjoyed a night without any of her cast-mates on Thursday night.
Nipping over to Raffles night club in London on the Kings' Road, Olivia was seen looking smart in an all-black ensemble to celebrate Ghost Vodka's latest promotional campaign.
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On the rocks: Made In Chelsea's Olivia Bentley teases her toned pins as she steps out in a tiny dress and thigh-high boots for Vodka launch party in London
Olivia looked chic in a short black dress, which revealed her leggy pins.
She wore velvet thigh-high heeled boots, also in black, and a sweeping pinstripe coat to complete the look.
Around her neck, the socialite slung a long silver chain, with a crucifix at the end of it.
She kept her make-up natural and wore her blonde locks loosely around her shoulders.
Suits you: Nipping over to Raffles night club in London on the Kings' Road, Olivia was seen looking smart in an all-black ensemble to party the night away
Plus one: Olivia attended the party with a chiseled-looking pal, who strutted alongside her in a loud jacket and ripped jeans as they made their way inside
Natural beauty: She kept her make-up natural and wore her blonde locks loosely around her shoulders as she posed with her friend Harry Baron
A pair of diamond earrings finished things off nicely.
Olivia attended the party with a chiseled-looking pal, who strutted alongside her in a loud jacket and ripped jeans as they made their way inside.
Also in attendance for ex-MIC star, Fran Newman Young, who has been absent from the series for a few seasons now.
She too kept it all black; her outfit echoed Olivia's in fact, with just a leather jacket and her sweeping brunette locks the only real difference to the look.
Mick Norcross, of TOWIE fame, was snapped popping in, also; as was Pandora Christie, who wore a navy blue number with feature gold buttons and a bright pink bag.
Former star: Also in attendance for ex-MIC star, Fran Newman Young, who has been absent from the series for a few seasons now
The Only Way Is Chelsea: Mick Norcross, of TOWIE fame, was snapped popping in, also
Olivia caused confusion last month as she was snapped shooting scenes for MIC, despite reportedly being banned from the reality series after getting caught up in a drugs scandal at the end of 2016.
But her appearance on set, surrounded by cast members, suggested the contrary, as the group were spotted on location in London filming for the upcoming season 13.
It was previously understood that the 22-year-old star - who burst onto the scene last year claiming to be an heiress to the Bentley cars dynasty (which turned out not to be accurate) - would not feature on any immediate new episodes.
Cheers! Pandora Christie wore a navy blue number with feature gold buttons
Slender: The Kiss DJ showed off her enviable figure in the strapless frock, which featured a saucy slit up the front
Sure to throw a spanner into the works where plot-lines were concerned, it was vaguely confirmed that the reality star would be reprimanded for her drug shame.
A representative for Made In Chelsea confirmed to MailOnline however that Olivia was indeed 'suspended from filming season 12' when the footage was leaked, meaning she would have missed out on certain scenes that were yet to be shot for that season.
Although the rep neither confirmed nor denied her appearance in the latest run of episodes, images from the set seem to suggest she will feature - meaning her blossoming relationship with Fredrik Ferrier will continue to be documented on the series.
Pastel dream: Meanwhile Olivia Cox brightened up the bash in a soft yellow shift dress with a quirky slit at the front, to tease at her red bra beneath
UGLY LITTLE LIES
(LYTTELTON, NATIONAL THEATRE)
VERDICT: FLIMSY LIES THE DRAMA
Rating:
Big performance. Small play. Whopping design. Terrible title.
In order of merit, Kate Fleetwood lays on a remarkable performance as Jess, a U.S. soldier returning to her small-town home in Florida. She is suffering from PTSD and extreme pain, thanks to severe burns sustained in Afghanistan.
The idea is that, with virtual reality therapy to help her explore fantasies of rejuvenation, Jess can learn to cope with the pain.
This is the tale of a big performance, small play, whopping design and terrible title
Indhu Rubasinghams production is perfectly likeable and there are charming performances
Until then, however, its down to Fleetwood to share with us what it might be like to suffer agonies every time you raise an arm; or live with disfiguring skin grafts over most of your body.
Hobbling gingerly on a walking frame, Fleetwood delivers an exceptional study of torment. Its an emotional journey, too; and Jess at first snippy and judgmental slowly learns to accept the dead-end town she abandoned for the army.
Fleetwood apart, I found Lindsey Ferrentinos play a rather slight sketch that belongs in a studio theatre. The themes dont match the central performance; and sweet as it is, the ending is too Disney-fied.
Ferrentinos strong suit is social awkwardness, so we get a lot of inept boyfriends, past and present. To justify the scale of the Lyttelton theatre, the drama really needs to take on the politics of the war on terror that lie behind Jesss injuries.
In lieu of something bigger, we get Es Devlins design, which seems to be on theatrical steroids. The piece de resistance is the virtual reality world of the Rocky Mountains, where Jess runs free of her agonies.
Indhu Rubasinghams production is perfectly likeable; and there are charming supporting performances from Ralf Little as Jesss ex, and Kris Marshall as her sisters idle boyfriend.
As for the title, it comes from an Albert Einstein rhyme about beauty being skin deep. All well and good; but Fleetwoods performance warrants bigger, tougher writing.
To give an indication of how raddled Hugh Jackman looks at the start of his valedictory outing as Wolverine, the mutant superhero with retractable claws and intractable melancholia, he could easily pass for Mel Gibson after a really heavy night out.
Thats the first sign that this will be an X-Men film like no other. And so it proves, but mostly in a good way.
I should add that there is grislier, more graphic violence than usual, not to mention an awful lot of effing and blinding, making it more like an XXXX-Men film.
The mutant superhero with retractable claws and intractable melancholia could easily pass for Mel Gibson after a really heavy night out
He is shaken out of his existential torpor when an intense, enigmatic young girl called Laura (brilliant newcomer Dafne Keen) is foisted upon him
Nonetheless, for anyone getting decidedly weary of superhero movies (hands up, your reviewer), this is the perfect antidote: a movie in which nobody is wearier than our superhero himself, and one which isnt in thrall to its own special effects.
Unusually in the Marvel universe, which tends to fudge references to time, we learn that it is 2029 and mutantkind is dying out.
Wolverine (or Logan to give him his human name) is down on his luck, battling an alcohol problem and reluctantly working as a limousine driver, ferrying hen parties round a dusty Texan town.
When some thugs try to pinch his hubcaps, he dispatches them almost reluctantly. He has to work much harder at invincibility these days.
Logans domestic life is no happier. His mutant mentor, Professor X (Patrick Stewart), is a shaky nonagenarian now, holed up in a ramshackle farmhouse near the Mexican border and cared for by a freakishly tall, goggle-eyed albino (played by freakishly tall, goggle-eyed Stephen Merchant).
His place is the nearest thing Logan has to a home. Its not much of a life, but he is shaken out of his existential torpor when an intense, enigmatic young girl called Laura (brilliant newcomer Dafne Keen) is foisted upon him by an anxious-looking nurse who has much to look anxious about.
The girl has special powers, too, but not, it seems, the power of speech.
I should add that there is grislier, more graphic violence than usual, not to mention an awful lot of effing and blinding, making it more like an XXXX-Men film
Logans domestic life is no happier. His mutant mentor, Professor X (Patrick Stewart), is a shaky nonagenarian now
She puts the mute in mutant. But this just adds to the air of mystery as, urged by the nurse, Logan takes her and Professor X from Texas to North Dakota in search of a fabled mutant sanctuary called Eden.
Logan is sceptical that such a place even exists. In one of many tongue-in-cheek nods at the superhero genre, he cites a reference to it in an old Marvel comic as proof that it cant be real. He also, incidentally, gives us the full Basil Fawlty when his car breaks down, frenziedly laying into it. This might not be the funniest X-Men film of all time (that would be last years Deadpool), but it has a pleasing air of irreverence. Thats not to say that it doesnt take itself seriously, however.
Maybe that is because it unfolds less like a superhero film and more like a western one in which an ageing gunslinger, in cahoots with a child, faces a final, defining shoot-out.
This is not just me being fanciful, by the way. Director James Mangold (who significantly made not only the second Wolverine film but also a very good western, 2007s 3:10 To Yuma) deliberately brings the analogy to life by sitting his characters in front of the television at one point, watching the 1953 Alan Ladd classic, Shane.
It is Mangolds only misstep in a film that, maybe more than anything else, showcases what a fine actor Jackman is
We also get a slyly capable baddy (Boyd Holbrook), who is chasing our unlikely band the length of America on behalf of evil scientist Richard E. Grant
And as in all good westerns, we also get a slyly capable baddy (Boyd Holbrook), who is chasing our unlikely band the length of America on behalf of evil scientist Richard E. Grant.
Did I just write evil scientist Richard E. Grant? It sounds ridiculous and, frankly, looks it, too. Grant was born to play many characters, all of them rather woodenly louche. Evil really doesnt suit him.
It is Mangolds only misstep in a film that, maybe more than anything else, showcases what a fine actor Jackman is. He gives a performance of genuine depth and poignancy.
Although it is set in Cider With Rosie country, Trespass Against Us is lit not by the warm glow of nostalgia, but of caravan-site braziers and burning cars. The Cutlers are a lawless traveller family living in rural Gloucestershire on the outer margins of society.
The commanding, track-suited patriarch, Colby, is given to sitting outdoors on an armchair, surveying his scrap of wasteland as if it were 20,000 acres of Capability Brown parkland, pontificating about God and evolution.
He is played, with his usual magnetism, by Brendan Gleeson. Michael Fassbender is similarly fine as Colbys eldest son, Chad, and really this is his story, as he tries in vain to escape his fathers influence.
Brendan Gleeson and Michael Fassbender in Trespass Against Us
The Cutlers are a lawless traveller family living in rural Gloucestershire on the outer margins of society
For director Adam Smith, making his first feature (though he has plenty of TV experience) and presumably working with a limited budget, its a real coup to land Fassbender and Gleeson
Chad has promised his wife Kelly (Lyndsey Marshal) they will get a house and bring up their two children in more respectable surroundings. He is illiterate but wants his kids to have the education he never did, much to Colbys bemusement. But the apple doesnt fall far from the tree.
There is a very good scene when Chad and Kelly are summoned to the childrens primary school, to be told by a teacher that the childrens absences and behaviour can no longer be tolerated.
Meanwhile, Colby needs to keep Chad close, mainly because hes better than anyone else at country-house robberies, and is such a fearless getaway driver that even with the police on his tail he finds time to light a cigarette.
Although it is set in Cider With Rosie country, Trespass Against Us is lit not by the warm glow of nostalgia, but of caravan-site braziers and burning cars
But in the end, and despite some well-choreographed chase scenes, this is a psychological study of a man trapped by his own degeneracy
There are faint echoes in all of this of much bigger-scale crime dramas.
I was even reminded of The Godfather when Chad tries to persuade his father that the real money is in internet crime, not house-breaking.
But in the end, and despite some well-choreographed chase scenes, this is a psychological study of a man trapped by his own degeneracy; trying, in the only way he knows, to be a responsible father.
For director Adam Smith, making his first feature (though he has plenty of TV experience) and presumably working with a limited budget, its a real coup to land Fassbender and Gleeson (its rather a surprise to find two Irishmen playing travellers yet speaking in broad Gloucestershire slang).
They get top-class support from the likes of Sean Harris and Rory Kinnear (as the local policeman, constantly outwitted by the Cutlers).
So there is much to admire here, but its still a tale of deeply unpleasant people. You wont find anyone with whom to even vaguely empathise, let alone actually like.
PORTLAND Albany resident Timothy Hagey of the Calapooia District of the Cascade Pacific Council of the Boy Scouts of America was recently recognized with the Silver Beaver Award for volunteerism.
The Silver Beaver is the highest award the local Boy Scout council can give to a volunteer mentor. Recipients are selected by confidential nominations of adult peers and only one award may be presented for every 60 troops.
Hagey is a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow and a Wood Badge Owl, who serves as adviser for Calapooia Chapter of the Order of the Arrow.
His career in scouting began as an assistant den leader with Pack 22, then assistant scoutmaster with Troop 22 in the Far East Council.
In 2006, Hagey became Troop 7099s scoutmaster and served in that role for eight years.
He has chaired the districts Webeloree, guiding the event's revitalization. He has also chaired the Klondike and Camporee on numerous occasions.
A retired Senior Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, Hagey works at the Naval ROTC program at Oregon State University.
He has knitted nearly 100 hats which have been donated to the Click for Babies campaign and the Chemo Center in Kaiser.
Hagey and his wife Cheryl enjoy square dancing and belong to two square dance clubs. In 2016 they chaired the Mid-Winter Square Dance Festival, which brought 1,100 dancers from Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana and California to Albany for a weekend of activities.
The Cascade Pacific Council has more than 10,000 adult mentors working with more than 25,000 young persons.
Billie Lourd snapped an elevator mirror selfie of herself and Taylor Lautner giving the camera their best smoldering stares on Thursday.
The Scream Queens co-stars and paramours were in London, and both bundled up to face the wintry chill.
Lourd emphasized her enviably trim midriff in a tight black top with a sloping neckline, adding a dash of glitz with an elaborate pendant.
Crossing the pond: Billie Lourd snapped an Instagram selfie of herself and Taylor Lautner giving the camera their best smoldering stares while in London on Thursday
The 24-year-old's blonde hair had been gathered into a messy updo, and she'd flung a glinting black jacket over a warm-looking hoodie in the same hue.
Charcoal skintight trousers accentuated her vertiginous legs as she stood legs akimbo and took the Instagram photo on her phone.
Beside her, the 25-year-old Twilight star had let a bit of scruff sprout onto his face and had spiked up his hair at the middle.
Making it work: Meanwhile, Lautner had posted the selfsame photo in black and white, writing: 'Do we have to be in Paris to participate in fashion week? #thelondonlook #closeenough'
A silver pea coat sat over a burgundy hoodie, which itself he'd pulled over a grey T-shirt that complemented his black trousers and black shoes.
Lourd's Instagram caption to the photo featured a string of hashtags: '#fashun #thelondonlook #sunsoutbunsout #sunglasswithclass #mateswhoelevate #blaseontheoutsideblessedontheinside'.
Meanwhile, Lautner had posted the selfsame photo in black and white, writing: 'Do we have to be in Paris to participate in fashion week? #thelondonlook #closeenough'.
Family tragedy: Lourd recently lost both her mother Carrie Fisher and grandmother Debbie Reynolds, who died on consecutive days in December
Lourd recently lost both her mother Carrie Fisher and grandmother Debbie Reynolds, who died on consecutive days in December.
Two days before Christmas, the 60-year-old Postcards From The Edge author went into cardiac arrest on a transcontinental flight. She was pronounced dead in hospital four days later.
A day after her daughter, the Singin' In The Rain star died after suffering a stroke. Her son Todd Fisher's told TMZ that she'd said that day: 'I want to be with Carrie.' She was 84 years old.
They co-created a fashion label that's solely devoted to the beach lifestyle.
And Devin Brugman, 27, and Natasha Oakley, 25, simply stunned in their latest campaign shots for Monday Swimwear, taken by Emily Abay.
The Instagram sensations flaunted their ample cleavage, taut torsos and slender legs, while on location in Fiji, in January.
Curves ahead! Devin Brugman, 27, left very little to the imagination in a campaign shot for Monday Swimwear, taken in Fiji, in January, that accentuated her ample cleavage, taut torso and slender legs in a skimpy two-piece
Devin left very little to the imagination as she stood underneath an outdoor shower in a skimpy two-piece.
The triangle-style top accentuated her ample chest and taut torso, while a pair of high-cut briefs drew attention to her lean legs.
Allowing her wet tresses to fall behind her toned shoulders, the curvaceous personality offered the camera a good look at her stunning side profile, that appeared to be makeup-free.
Flawless: Another stunning image saw the blogger perched on a wooden chair, sporting a very low-cut one-piece that once again flaunted her generous bust
Another stunning black-and-white image saw the brunette perched on a wooden chair while sporting a very low-cut one-piece.
The daring neckline showed off Devin's generous bust and delicate decolletage.
Pulling her svelte legs to her chest with her lithe arms, the blogger opted for a low-key beauty look, sweeping her dark locks into a messy top knot.
White hot: Devin's business partner Natasha Oakley (left) 25, posed alongside the busty brunette in a white two-piece ensemble, flaunting her incredibly tiny waist and lean legs
Also on the shoot was Devin's business partner Natasha Oakley.
Working their best angles for the camera, the close pals posed in skimpy two-piece ensembles outside an island hut.
Natasha flaunted every inch of her lean frame, with an emphasis placed on her tiny waist.
While Devin put the attention on her pert derriere in Brazilian-cut briefs, and offered a glimpse of sideboob in a triangle-style top.
In profile: Natasha also posed for a close-up shot in the same ensemble that zoomed in on her washboard stomach and toned legs
The girls' tresses were left to fall in relaxed waves around minimally made-up complexions.
Natasha also took to the sand for a sizzling shot, laying provocatively in a low-cut white one-piece.
The star's bronzed legs and cleavage were hard to miss, while a hibiscus flower placed behind her ear drew the eye to a glamorously made-up complexion.
Leggy lady: Natasha also took to the sand for a sizzling shot, laying provocatively in a low-cut white one-piece
The landmark El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood played host to the premiere of Disney's new live action Beauty And The Beast film on Thursday.
Matt Damon turned up looking rather casual, leaving a couple of buttons undone to reveal his white undershirt as he posed on the red carpet.
Meanwhile, his wife Luciana Barroso had slid into a flowing off-the-shoulder jumpsuit that was midnight blue above the bust and a lighter blue below.
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With their arms about each other: Matt Damon and his wife Luciana Barroso were among the celebrities in attendance when the landmark El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood played host to the premiere of Disney's new live action Beauty And The Beast film on Thursday
The 46-year-old had opted for a dress shirt that matched the top of his wife's outfit, leaving it untucked over a pair of dull grey trousers.
His grey shoes appeared to be made of suede, and he'd rolled up his sleeves halfway up his muscled forearms for his evening out.
Meanwhile, the 40-year-old had accessorized with a duo of necklaces and glinting earrings, letting her wavy hair tumble freely over her shoulders.
Relaxed look: Damon had turned up looking rather casual, leaving a couple of buttons undone to reveal his white undershirt as he posed on the red carpet
The pair have been married since 2005 and have got three biological daughters: 10-year-old Isabella, eight-year-old Gia and six-year-old Stella.
Barroso's also got a now 17-year-old daughter called Alexia by her first husband Arbello Barroso, whom she divorced in 2004.
Beauty And The Beast is adapted from the beloved 1991 cartoon version, the first of only three animated features ever nominated for a Best Picture Oscar.
Garnishing the look: Meanwhile, Barroso had accessorized with a duo of necklaces and glinting earrings, letting her wavy hair tumble freely over her shoulders
In the new version, Emma Watson will play leading lady Belle, voiced in 1991 by Paige O'Hara, while Dan Stevens will be the Beast, succeeding Robby Benson.
Other cast members include Ian McKellen, Ewan McGregor, Stanley Tucci, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Kevin Kline and Emma Thompson.
Directed by Bill Condon, the film enjoyed its world premiere in London last Thursday and will open to a wide release in both America and Britain on March 17.
Big shoes to fill: Beauty And The Beast is adapted from the beloved 1991 cartoon version, the first of only three animated features ever nominated for a Best Picture Oscar
Ireland Baldwin cut a patriotic figure on the set of a recent photo shoot in Palm Springs on Thursday.
Dressed in a red and white striped swimsuit, with a blue towel wrapped around her waist, the 21-year-old model shared a playful video of herself flipping her hair on Instagram, a photography light and boxes in the background.
Her left arm is covered with what appears to be a series of fake tattoos.
Busting out: Ireland Baldwin shared a series of sexy photos from a shoot in Palm Springs on Thursday
Beach babe: The 21-year-old model flaunted her curves in a red and white swimsuit, her left arm covered in tattoos
While Ireland is keeping quiet on what the photo shoot is for, cryptically captioning the video, 'bts from today,' she also shared a series of photos from the shoot.
In another picture, the statuesque blonde is seen leaping through the air in sneakers, black leggings, white shorts and an orange crop top.
Behind her is a rusty fence, windmills and mountains, while white sand covers the ground below her.
Leap of faith: The buxom blonde appeared to be flying through the air in one of the photos, which she posted on Instagram
She also shared another video of herself prancing across the sandy ground in a pair of white pants with green stripes down the side, a red and black striped crop top and silver metallic jacket.
She accessorized her futuristic look with a pair of matching green sandals and green sunglasses.
Clearly enamored with her surroundings, the rising star posted a photo of a picturesque street lined with shrubbery, the majestic mountains visible in the background.
Silver lining: In another video posted to Instagram, Ireland was seen sporting a metallic jacket and futuristic glasses
Picture perfect: The aspiring actress and model shared a photo of her serene surroundings with fans on Instagram
It comes just two weeks after the powerful storms in California left Ireland house bound in LA.
The blonde bombshell shared a photo of a giant fallen tree lying across her driveway, blocking the path to her home.
'So this is my drive way.... anyone expecting me to get anywhere this weekend it's not happening! thanks for understanding xo,' she captioned the photo.
Even when dressed down and heading onto a transatlantic flight, a model of Olivia Culpo's stature can't help looking fabulous.
The 24-year-old was radiant as she crossed LAX, skipping town to swing into Paris for Fashion Week, which began on Tuesday.
She'd slung on a largely black jacket by ALEXIS that featured striped zaffre sections curving about its neckline, as well as its hem.
On the move: Even when dressed down and heading onto a transatlantic flight, a model of Olivia Culpo's stature can't help looking fabulous
These stripes matched those that streaked down the side of each of her trouser legs, against fabric that draped about her vertiginous legs.
Her black top featured a sloping neckline, and she'd slicked her hair severely back, winding it behind her head. She flashed a peace sign to nearby cameras.
A large black leather purse was slung into the crook of her arm, and she clashed against the dark tenor of her outfit with bright white shoes.
L'Hexagone-bound: The 24-year-old looked radiant as she crossed LAX, skipping town to swing into Paris for Fashion Week, which began on Tuesday
She'd uploaded an Instagram photo of herself right outside the airport, holding her purse between her legs as she sat on one of six suitcases assembled around her.
'Just a few suitcases,' she quipped in her caption, adding a smiling face emoji before closing out: 'See you in Paris!! @lookfwrd @fwrd'.
Culpo stunned at the Academy Awards red carpet outside the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, wearing a glistening Marchesa gown.
Dashes of color: She'd slung on a largely black jacket that featured striped zaffre sections curving about its neckline, as well as its hem
Coordinated: These stripes matched those that streaked down the side of each of her trouser legs, against fabric that draped about her vertiginous legs
Miss Universe 2012's dress was made of Stella Artois chalices that had been melted, enabling the material to be refashioned into beads.
She'd told Ryan Seacrest on the carpet: 'It's in partnership with Stella Artois and Water.org. Stella Artois created chalices and for one chalice sold, five years of clean drinking water is provided for someone in the developing world.'
StyleCaster ran an interview on Thursday in which Culpo dished about how she readies herself in advance of an awards show gig.
Traveling light: She'd uploaded an Instagram photo of herself right outside the airport, holding her purse between her legs as she sat on one of six suitcases assembled around her
'I always do some kind of mask before, drink a ton of water, and lay off of caffeine and anything else that will dehydrate the skin,' said she.
She'd confided: 'I think its important to try your pose beforehand. Sitting is also another thing to think about.'
In her view, 'Its really important to stay in a good headspace and not get too stressed out and anxious. If youre not going to have fun, whats the point? When youre stressed or anxious it shows up on your face.'
He fronted the world-famous 'throw a shrimp on the barbie' Australian tourism advert in 1984.
But it's now been suggested Australian actor Paul Hogan wasn't paid for his role in the iconic campaign.
Speaking to Nova's Fitzy And Wippa on Friday, Kerri-Anne Kennerley revealed: 'He did it for nothing!'
'He did it for nothing!': Kerri-Anne Kennerley reveals actor Paul Hogan fronted the global 'throw a shrimp on the barbie' Australian tourism campaign for free during an interview with Nova's Fitzy And Wippa on Friday
Paul took the US by storm as the lovable ocker Aussie who urged Americans to 'put a shrimp on the barbie', a phrase still associated with Australians to this day.
Kerri-Anne expressed her shock at the star never being paid: 'Could you get a big star to do something for nothing these days? Especially on an international level like that?'
The Australian TV personality, 63, spoke highly of the star's involvement in the tourism campaign that reportedly saw the country soar from No.78 to No.1 on Americans' dream holiday list during the time.
'Could you get a big star to do something for nothing these days?': Kerri-Anne expressed her shock at the star reportedly never being paid for his involvement in the international ad (Pictured in the 1984 campaign commercial)
'It created jobs for Australia, it just started an enormous economic campaign and if you scratch the surface that was really Paul Hogan who was responsible for that,' she stated her opinion.
Kerri-Anne reminded the radio due that the Hollywood hunk 'wasn't even a star, he became a big international star with Crocodile Dundee he was 47' two years after the successful commercial aired.
The TV host said she first interviewed the 'fabulous bloke' the day Crocodile Dundee launched Down Under, saying he was 'so much fun then.'
'Paul Hogan who was responsible for that': Kerri-Anne spoke highly of the star's involvement in the tourism campaign that reportedly saw the country soar from No.78 to No.1 on Americans' dream holiday list during the time, saying he helped aid jobs and kick-started 'an enormous economic campaign'
'He has not lost what he's always had': Kerri-Anne says since meeting him more than 30 years ago he remains the same 'larrikin' he always was and is 'just Aussie to the bone'
She maintains more than 30 years 'he has not lost what he's always had' in terms of being a 'larrikin' and 'Aussie to the bone.'
A recent unauthorized biopic of Paul Hogan's life titled Hoges aired on Channel Seven to mix reviews of fans.
Paul himself even displayed his displeasure with the series to The Daily Telegraph before it aired in February: 'There are hardly any warts, it is lacking drama.'
She shot to fame as a '90s pop star, model and soap actress.
And Melissa Tkautz certainly wasn't shy about flaunting her figure in the past, with the 43-year-old seen stripping off for a nude photo shoot in her youth.
The reality star cut a sultry figure as she posed naked for a black-and-white shoot, taken before she joined the cast of The Real Housewives Of Sydney.
She's not shy! The Real Housewives Of Sydney's Melissa Tkautz wasn't shy about flashing skin when she posed for a nude photo shoot during her youth
The retro image shows the mother-of-two lying on a carpeted floor and leaning on one arm while concealing her nether regions with the other.
The blonde beauty oozed sex appeal as she shot a seductive gaze at the camera while nibbling on her finger.
The Read My Lips hitmaker channeled Old Hollywood glamour with her hair, styling her peroxide locks into a bouffant updo.
Triple threat: The 43-year-old was best known as a 90s pop star, model and soap actress
What's her secret? The age-defying beauty appears to have maintained her svelte figure and fresh-faced looks (pictured in 2004 on left and at the recent RHOS launch on right)
Before her foray into reality TV, Melissa was best known for her pop music career as well as role on the Australian series E Street.
Her 1991 hit song Read My Lips not only defined her career, but the video clip also starred The Mentalist hunk Simon Baker.
Speaking to Nova FM's Fitzy & Wippa, the housewife revealed that she dated Simon 'on and off for a year and a half.'
Read My Lips: The song and video clip for her 1991 hit became a career-defining highlight
Past fling: Simon Baker appeared as a greased-up boxer in the music video, and later dated the singer on-and-off
'I dated Simon,' she said. 'I was infatuated with him, he was gorgeous.'
And that's not the only high-profile hookup the blonde bombshell has enjoyed in her hayday.
She recently told The Daily Telegraph that her first kiss with was the late INXS frontman Michael Hutchence.
'I followed Michael pretty much everywhere': The reality TV star also confessed to sharing her first kiss with INXS frontman Michael Hutchence
The star confessed to being a 'huge fan' of the rock band when she was given a VIP pass to one of their Sydney concerts during the 1990s.
'I followed Michael pretty much everywhere and I ended up at [Darlinghurst] nightclub Kinsellas. We were walking through the crowd and Michael said, "youre Melissa, arent you?" and I went "[stares blankly]"... I just didnt have anything to say,' Melissa said.
Melissa is one of seven glamorous, outspoken ladies starring in the premiere season of The Real Housewives Of Sydney on Foxtel.
He once serenaded ex-Bachelor star Megan Marx during a TV interview.
And Dr. Chris Brown jokingly expressed his disappointment at failing to make it as the next Bachelor on Thursday night's edition of The Project.
The I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! host was doing a cross-over with The Project panel when Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald took a swipe at his love life.
Laughing it off: Dr. Chris Brown jokingly expressed his disappointment at failing to make it as the next Bachelor on Thursday night's edition of The Project
'Just before you go, commiserations to you Browny as well 'cause I know how much you wanted to be the next Bachelor, they announced today that Matty (J) was gonna be the next Bachelor,' Fitzy said drawing laughs.
Chris sarcastically replied: 'Thanks Fitzy and I guess this will just condemn me to another year of you speculating falsely over my relationship status and creating rumours around the Sydney district.'
Fitzy's dig appeared to be payback after he was left squirming last week over questions about his brief romance with Tziporah Malkah (previously Kate Fischer).
Taking a swipe: The I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! host was doing a cross-over with The Project panel when Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald took a swipe at his love life
The unsuspecting media personality was wrapping up a cross-over with hosts Chris and Julia Morris when he was suddenly bombarded with questions about James Packer's ex fiancee.
'Before you guys go, just one little thing. Tziporah has been very testy the last few days ... Fitzy would you have any clues as to how one might I guess placate Tziporah and make her feel good given your history?' a smirking Chris asked.
As Fitzy began to blush, co-host Carrie Bickmore asked: 'did you guys date?' to which he nervously replied: 'No!'
Awkward! Fitzy was left squirming as he abruptly ended an interview over questions about his brief romance with Tziporah Malkah (previously Kate Fischer)
Sneaky: The unsuspecting media personality was wrapping up a cross-over with Chris and Julia Morris when he was suddenly bombarded with questions about James Packer's ex fiancee
Shutting it down: 'Stuff you Browny! Browny we're losing you mate, have a great night. See you guys,' Fitzy said
Throwback: Tziporah (seen L, in 1994 and R, recently) had a brief romance with Fitzy after her split from James Packer in 1998
Amused and eager to draw out the awkward moment, Dr. Brown said: 'Please elaborate, what would I be talking about here?'
Adding to the awkwardness, Julia bluntly asked: 'Have you kissed her on the lips?'
A fed-up Fitzy laughed off the moment before quickly shutting it down.
'Stuff you Browny! Browny we're losing you mate, have a great night. See you guys,' he said.
Blast from the past: Fitzy and Tziporah are said to have 'kissed on the lips' during their time together
Reality star: Tziporah stars on the latest season of I'm A Celebrity...
Fitzy and Tziporah are said to have 'kissed on the lips' after she split from James in 1998 and Fitzy is now happily married to wife of eight years Belinda, with whom he shares two kids.
He previously spoke about his brief romance with Tziporah, who currently stars on I'm A Celebrity... .
'I got to know her...she sold her Bondi apartment that James gave her and she bought this amazing place down at Clovelly on the cliff, right down the road from Clovelly Hotel,' Fitzy said on his Nova radio show last year.
'And I used to be a bit of a local down there, the ladies used to know me down there. I met her one day and we became acquaintances and yeah...Kissing on the lips. Haven't spoken to her since.'
Case of the ex: James is seen here in January with his most recent ex Mariah Carey
She introduced her 10-foot pet python on the premiere of The Real Housewives Of Sydney.
And Lisa Oldfield has revealed her beloved snake 'has the run of the house'.
The 41-year-old spoke candidly to Daily Mail Australia about her pet's feeding and grooming habits, while also revealing that her young sons Harry, 6, and Bert, 4, often share a bath with the rescue serpent.
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Roams free: She introduced her 10-foot pet python on the premiere of The Real Housewives Of Sydney, explaining the snake has the run of the house
They do WHAT? Lisa Oldfield has revealed her young sons Bert, 4, and Harry, 6, often share a bath with her pet snake
'They get in the bath with her,' the reality star said of her snake named Shelley, adding that the boys also help to feed it.
The businesswoman went on to explain: 'When she's having a shed, she likes to be wet to help her loosen her skin.
'She loves the water and [the kids] love her.'
'They get in the bath with her': The Real Housewives Of Sydney star told Daily Mail Australia her sons love to bathe with the 10-foot python
Making yourself at home: Lisa shared this photo last week on Instagram while she had a wine with her unusual pet
It comes after the brunette beauty opened up about her parenting technique, admitting she's 'not a smacker'.
'I'm not really a smacker. It's more a threat,' the wife of former politician David Oldfield told Daily Mail Australia.
'I'm the typical parent who says "don't make me count to three",' she continued, before joking with a laugh: 'I prefer to f*** with them psychologically.'
'Not a smacker': The mother-of-two admitted she avoids smacking her sons, but does 'prefer to f*** with them psychologically'
Unique approach: It comes after the brunette beauty opened up about her parenting technique, admitting she's 'not a smacker'
It's no secret the reality star's blunt-speaking approach doesn't change when it comes to her children.
In an unedited clip from Sunday's episode obtained by News Corp, the mother-of-two was seen calling Bert, four, a 'd***head' for not jumping in the pool.
The toddler also didn't hold back, calling his mother a 'bloody f**king idiot'.
Rescue pet: Lisa rescued Shelley the serpent and the 10 foot long snake has become a part of the family
Speaking to the publication, the software company sales director admitted she wouldn't be surprised if she received backlash over her parenting technique.
'Oh yeah, I'm half expecting DOCS (Family and Community Services) to knock on my door,' she said.
'But they'd see a very well kept, very well loved little boy.'
She went on to say that despite the four-year-old being 'foul-mouthed,' he is in fact an 'honest and decent human being'.
Kate Beckinsale put her famed natural beauty on display Thursday as she ran errands in Santa Monica, California.
The English rose stepped out in skintight black leggings tucked into black leather boots paired with layers of a white tank over a pink top.
The 43-year-old Underworld star added a white knit cardigan and a pair of large sunglasses.
Stunner; Kate Beckinsale put her famed natural beauty on display Thursday as she ran errands in Santa Monica, California
She walked along with a black purse slung over one shoulder and her phone and another pair of glasses in one hand.
Kate still rocked the shiny nail polish she'd had done in her manicure before attending the Vanity Fair Oscars Party on Sunday night.
There, she had wowed in a breathtaking gown that featured dramatic netted shoulders and a plunging sequinned bodice.
The sheer embroidered skirt was embroidered with glittering silver beads and underneath, Kate wore just a pair of black underpants.
Casual: The 43-year-old Underworld star stepped out in skintight black leggings tucked into black leather boots paired with layers of a white tank over a pink top and a white knit cardigan
Headturner; On Sunday night, Kate had stunned at the Vanity Fair Oscars Party in a breathtaking gown that featured a plunging sequinned bodice and a sheer embroidered skirt
Next up for Kate will be the release of the movie The Only Living Boy In New York in which she stars with Pierce Brosnan and Jeff Bridges.
Last year, the actress's Underworld director husband Len Wiseman filed for divorced after 12 years of marriage.
She has a daughter Lily, born in 1999, whose father is her former partner, actor Michael Sheen.
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She's the blonde beauty who accompanied Shane Warne to Chris Martin's 40th birthday party.
But just who is Emily Sears, the busty glamour model from Australia?
Now based in Los Angeles, the 32-year-old 'social influencer' boasts more than 3.9million Instagram followers and campaigned in 2016 against men sending unsolicited 'dick pics'.
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Who is the buxom blonde on Shane Warne's arm? Meet glamour model Emily Sears, 32, the busty beauty who boasts 3.9million Instagram followers and campaigns against dick pics
Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Emily Sears grew up being teased by other school kids because of her sizable rear end.
'I used to be bullied for having a big butt but thankfully its now considered a good thing,' she told Maxim Australia.
Emily started modelling in Australia, appearing on the cover of lad's mag Zoo Magazine several times before moving to Los Angeles five years ago.
'I used to be bullied for having a big butt': Emily Sears grew up being teased by other school kids
It was in the United States where her career really took off, appearing in a music video clip for Dr Dre and a raunchy Carls Jr burger advertisement.
More recently she has been featured as one of the models for Khloe Kardashian's Good American denim line.
She also added the job title of 'social influencer', racking up millions of followers on Instagram thanks to her sexy snaps, which she often uses for paid promotional gigs.
American fame: It was in the United States where her career really took off, appearing in a music video clip for Dr Dre and a raunchy Carls Jr burger advertisement
In January last year, Emily made international headlines when she began contacting the wives and girlfriends of men who had sent her unwanted sexually explicit photos or texts.
Emily told Fairfax Media she decided to start exposing males who sent her dick pics because the harassment was something all women dealt with to some degree.
'It doesn't matter how many of these messages I receive, it's never any less appalling or shocking to see,' she said. 'It's a confronting thing and always leaves you feeling unsettled.'
Viral sensation: Emily made international headlines when she began contacting the wives and girlfriends of men who had sent her unwanted sexually explicit photos
Keeps it private: While she has had enormous success thanks to sharing her life on social media, Emily has stayed mum on any potential men in her life
While she has had enormous success thanks to sharing her life on social media, Emily has stayed mum on any romances.
However she has revealed on Twitter that she has never been married and an ex boyfriend had cheated on her and then tried to win her back for five years.
On Thursday night, Emily was photographed meeting up with Shane Warne to attend Chris Martin's birthday party together.
Previous partner was unfaithful: She did reveal on Twitter last November that an ex boyfriend had cheated on her and then tried to win her back for five years
The two appeared close as they arrived at the celebration, with Shane kissing the model affectionately and pulled her close for a warm embrace.
He later shared a photo of the two together on Instagram inside the party, captioning the photo: 'Aussie mates hanging in LA = awesome.'
She's used to having busy schedule, but PR queen Roxy Jacenko has had a nightmare week of a different nature.
Aside from running her public relations company Sweaty Betty, the 36-year-old has been busy taking care of her two-year-old son Hunter who has been struck down with a virus.
She told Daily Mail Australia that he has been sick all week and unable to get out of bed, open his eyes or sit up on his own, even after seeking the assistance of two doctors.
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Treat after a terrible week: After spending the day in hospital, PR maven Roxy Jacenko has taken her two-year-old son Hunter, who has been struck down with a virus all week, to McDonald's to get a Happy Meal
'[It's] very hard to see and not know how to solve for me,' the Sydney socialite said.
'He spent this morning in emergency after last night but come this afternoon and after seven terrible days he is finally getting colour back,' she added.
Amid the hustle between home, the hospital, work and a meeting, she said she stopped by McDonald's to get Hunter a Happy Meal to lift his spirits.
Doting mum: She told Daily Mail Australia, 'He spent this morning in emergency after last night but come this afternoon and after seven terrible days he is finally getting colour back'
Mummy's hugs! She shared a sweet photo of Hunter in her arms and holding his favourite blanket as they waited at Rose Bay's South Head Medical Centre
'I think the McNuggets certainly did the trick,' she said.
'He is finally smiling again! They say a mother's work is never done heck thats certainly true!'
Roxy took to Instagram to share an adorable snap of Hunter belted into his car seat with his favourite blanket on his lap, while digging into his nuggets and chips.
His hospital band is clearly visible on his wrist.
Sadly missing out on the treat was her eldest child, daughter Pixie, five, who was busy at school.
Just the trick! She said that the McNuggets put a smile back on his face after spending the day in the hospital
Her legions of followers liked and comended the mother for doing what she can to help Hunter feel better.
One said: 'Nuggets makes everything better! feel better Hunty xxxx'
Another commented: 'Best recovery food. Always know when they are on the mend if the can get it down!!'
While someone else wrote: 'A happy meal solves everything! I hope he improves quickly.'
Meanwhile, the busy mum of two couldn't resist sneaking in a quick selfie showing off her trademark blonde locks styled by her new client Toni And Guy Salons.
Sorry Pixie! Sadly missing out on the Happy Meal treat was her eldest child, daughter Pixie, five, who was busy at school
Earlier in the week Roxy took to her Instagram to post a picture herself with Hunter in her arms and holding his favourite blanket at Rose Bay's South Head Medical Centre.
She also shared snippets of her day with her social media followers and even tried to get him to wear the cute panda face mask to try and stop it from spreading to herself and Pixie.
'He thought it was so ridiculous it didnt last very long,' she said.
He's the restaurateur turned celebrity chef who has many a foodie batting their eyelids since joining My Kitchen Rules as a judge in 2013.
Now Colin Fassnidge has decided that 2017 is going to be the year he takes better care of himself, starting with his back and his teeth.
The Irish-born chef took to Instagram on Friday to reveal he was getting his teeth straightened with the help of braces, proudly including hashtags for 'braces nerd smile'
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Say cheese! MKR's Colin Fassnidge reveals he has gotten braces as part of a 2017 resolution to take better care of his health
The 44-year-old posted a picture on the social media site of the removable braces, explaining why he had made the decision to get work on his teeth.
'Day 1 and for the next year, it's the year of looking after my health,' Colin wrote.
'Stage 1 my back underway, stage 2 starts today my teeth #braces #nerd #smile.'
'It's the year of looking after my health': The 44-year-old posted a picture on the social media site of the removable braces, explaining why he had made the decision to get work on his teeth
Working on his smile: The Irish-born chef took to Instagram on Friday to reveal he was getting his teeth straightened with the help of removable braces
Colin's dentist work comes after the popular Channel Seven television personality revealed he was almost fired from My Kitchen Rules.
He told The Daily Telegraph that soon after he joined the hit Channel Seven show in 2013, he had some tense discussions with the show's producers.
The owner of popular restaurant Four In Hand, Colin was renowned for his brash and at times intimidating attitude in the kitchen.
But with the enormity of the job in front of him, he said he was afraid to be himself - leading to an awkward chat with executive producer Rikki Proost.
On the chopping block! Colin Fassnidge (pictured) has revealed he was almost sacked after his second episode on My Kitchen Rules
'I went in to My Kitchen Rules very blase, thinking it was easy and after the second episode I did, Rikki told me I was about to be evicted,' Colin said.
'It is not a very nice feeling being told you're not very good at something and you have 150 crew listening to that.'
Admitting that he needed to get back the attitude that he has in the kitchen, it did not take long for Colin to find his feet.
Now in his fifth season on the show, he has recently teamed up with fellow celebrity chef Darren Robertson to critique a new round of contestants.
He's a huge household name with his host of television shows on ITV - and Phillip Schofield says he met his wife, Stephanie when she worked in the business.
Talking to Christine Lampard on Lorraine on Friday, about brand new series Schofields South African Adventure, he said he was so pleased she joined him for filming.
Christine asked him if we would do another series with Stephanie and he said: 'She worked in television years ago, that was how we met, so she can do it, she just doesn't want to these days.
'I never forget how lucky I am': Phillip Schofield told Christine Lampard on Lorraine on Friday that he met wife Stephanie when she worked in TV
Sweet: Talking to Christine Lampard on Lorraine on Friday, about brand new series Schofields South African Adventure, he said he was so pleased she joined him for filming
'She told me, "I do trust you", so she will only film with me. She got more into it as we went along.'
Stephanie met Phil when she worked as a BBC production Assistant and he was working for the BBC Childrens television.
He said at the time: 'You'd have thought someone wouldn't be attracted to a man with a puppet and dodgy jumpers!'
He said of his wife: 'She worked in television years ago, that was how we met, so she can do it, she just doesn't want to these days'
He said at the time: 'You'd have thought someone wouldn't be attracted to a man with a puppet and dodgy jumpers!' - pictured in 1986
Lovely: Phillip and Stephanie have been keeping viewers abreast of their antics on social media
They married in 1993 and have two daughters together called Ruby and Molly.
The couple went diving with sharks for one instalment of the show which was intended for use on This Morning but was so successful, it has gone primetime.
Phillip said he wasn't at all scared at all and said it was important for him to highlight the sharks' beauty as well as their plight.
Doing good: On next week's episode, Phillip and Stephanie visit rhinos and help them
That's brave: Phillip also abseils down Table Mountain in the series
He also went diving with sharks and said he 'wasn't scared'
He said: 'They get a really bad press. There is a catastrophe happening in the seas with the killing that goes on.
'We could see a world without them in the future. They are very important to the food chain and very majestic.'
He also said playfully of their filming experience: 'I learned she can't drum. She is a very poor drummer. On tonight's episode, I abseil off Table Mountain and she said, "no thanks" to that.
'Next week, we do some work with rhinos. I really never forget how lucky I am.'
Back in the day: Stephanie met Phil when she worked as a BBC production Assistant and he was working for the BBC Childrens television
His love: Phillip and Stephanie married in 1993 and have two daughters together called Ruby and Molly
He concluded: 'Next week, we do some work with rhinos. I really never forget how lucky I am'
They have been a rumoured couple for almost a year, having first been spotted together at the Met Ball last May.
And Kristen Stewart and Stella Maxwell only added fuel to the fire on Thursday, as they stepped out for a low-key lunch together in Los Angeles.
The blonde model, 26, looked casually chic in a baggy Givenchy T-shirt as she headed for lunch with her rumoured girlfriend, also 26 - following her hectic Fashion Week stint in Europe.
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Loved-up? Kristen Stewart and Stella Maxwell fuelled rumours of a romance on Thursday, as they stepped out for a low-key lunch together in Los Angeles
The model perfectly achieved the shabby-chic look in her baggy designer T-shirt, which she paired with comfy leggings to show off her enviably slender figure.
Tying her look together in her trademark grungy style, Stella accessorised with a pair of chunky Doc Martens and a selection of silver stud earrings to add a rock-chic vibe to the look.
Sweeping half her hair into a messy bun and added only dark sunglasses to her face, the Belgian beauty appeared utterly relaxed, as she reunited with Kristen after a week of catwalk appearances in London and Milan.
Date day:The pair looked closer than ever as they spent a chilled out day off together - walking side by side to the restaurant and sharing a cigarette before heading off with their food
Meanwhile the Twilight actress put on a more colourful display in a sporty yellow bomber jacket, which she paired with low-rise boyfriend jeans to give a flash of her midriff.
Matching the edgy style of her companion, the brunette teamed the baggy strides with a classic pair of black Converse and a chunky gold chain around her neck.
The pair looked closer than ever as they spent a chilled out day off together - walking side by side to the restaurant and sharing a cigarette before heading off with their food.
Centre of attention: The pair were spotted leaving the Met Ball together in May - sparking initial rumours of a romance, although both parties have kept tight-lipped about their status
Although neither party has confirmed the relationship, Kristen and Stella have been nearly inseparable in recent months.
The pair were first spotted leaving the Met Ball together in May last year - sparking initial speculation of a romance.
Whilst they have kept their reported romance low-key, the pair have also been spotted kissing and out together on several occasions.
They are believed to have started dating in December, shortly after Kristen made her first public outing with then-girlfriend St. Vincent.
Busy bee: The Belgian beauty appeared utterly relaxed, as she reunited with Kristen after a week of catwalk appearances in Milan Fashion Week (Versace and Alberta Ferretti above, L-R)
Kristen was even seen supporting Stella at the Tommy Hilfiger catwalk show in LA last week from a coveted place on the FROW.
Back in July, Kristen Stewart came out as bisexual when she gushed about her then-girlfriend Alicia Cargyle to Elle magazine: 'I'm just really in love with my girlfriend,' she said.
'We've broken up a couple of times and gotten back together, and this time I was like: "Finally, I can feel again."'
The brunette then announced herself as 'so gay' during a skit on Saturday Night Live last month.
Joel Creasey will finally see Sydney's famous Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade for the first time on Saturday night.
And the comedian, a proud member of the gay community, will do so as host of SBS's coverage of the event alongside Em Rusciano, Patrick Abboud and Faustina Agolley.
The 26-year-old told Star Observer that he landed the gig despite never having attended the Mardi Gras showpiece.
At last: Comedian Joel Creasey will finally see Sydney's famous Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday night - as host of SBS's coverage
He said: 'I've never actually been to the parade which is crazy considering I'm hosting it, and I've only ever been to Mardi Gras one other time.'
While he missed the main event during his only previous visit to the LBGT festival, the Perth-born funnyman did meet his ex-boyfriend there.
And as he's currently single, Joel is hoping to meet someone special on his second visit to Sydney's famous celebration.
Big moment: Joel (pictured at the LGBTI Awards) told Star Observer that he landed the gig despite never having attended the Mardi Gras showpiece
Co-hosts: The comedian, a proud member of the gay community, will host SBS's coverage of the event alongside Em Rusciano (pictured), Patrick Abboud and Faustina Agolley
Fond memories: While he missed the main event during his only previous visit to the LBGT festival, the Perth-born funnyman did meet his ex-boyfriend there
He said: 'Because I missed the parade I went straight to the after party which is where I met my ex-boyfriend so Mardi Gras is hopefully an opportunity to meet a husband.'
The stand-up comic, who shot to national attention on the first season of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, also told the publication about coming out to his parents.
Joel said his mum and dad were 'cool' about the revelation he made at 16-years-old, and says he'd known for a long time about his sexuality.
On the prowl: As he's currently single, Joel is hoping to meet someone special on his second visit to Sydney's famous celebration
Moment of truth: The stand-up comic, who shot to national attention on the first season of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, also told the publication about coming out to his parents
He said: 'I think I always knew from a young age. I had a girlfriend for a week in grade nine but then I dumped her via text on my Nokia 3315.'
Joel has been performing gigs in the build-up to Mardi Gras in aid of just.equal, an organisation protesting for the legalisation of same-sex marriage.
You can see Joel and his co-hosts presenting live coverage of the parade on SBS On Demand from 7:30pm Saturday, or you can catch the full broadcast at 8:30pm Sunday on SBS.
Katherine Jackson's rumbling feud with her nephew-in-law Trent Lamar Jackson could come to a close with the help of her grandson TJ.
TMZ report that the mother of late superstar Michael and her relative to help mediate after it was claimed earlier in the week that she is 'too afraid of him to return to her home in Los Angeles, instead residing in London'.
The 86-year-old has been at loggerheads with her relative yet reports suggest that Trent has rallied with his lawyer Ron Rale to knock the feud of the head, with hopes to talk to TJ about the wrongdoing on either side.
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Living in fear: Katherine Jackson's rumbling feud with her nephew-in-law Trent Lamar Jackson could come to a close with the help of her grandson TJ
According to the NY Daily News, the Jackson matriarch said in legal documents filed Wednesday that she is 'under a doctor's care' in London, England, 'in part because of the stress this situation with Trent is causing me.'
It has now been claimed that TJ, who is lauded in the family for his unwavering loyalty, will sit down with Trent to decide which party is in the wrong - with Trent reportedly vowing to step back if he is proved to be in the wrong.
Trent and his lawyer are said to be suspicious of family members vying for Katherine's fortune - while believing the chat with TJ will expose opportunist relatives.
Katherine was granted a temporary restraining order February 9 against Trent after alleging she is the victim of elder abuse and that he has neglected her health needs.
Court order: TMZ report that the mother of late superstar Michael is calling in the singer's nephew to help mediate after it was claimed on Thursday that she is 'too afraid of to return to her home in Los Angeles, instead residing in London'
Trent, 52, who is related to Katherine via her husband Joe's side of the family, had been living in a guest house in the grounds of her Calabasas, California, home after serving for years as her personal driver.
Katherine states in her filing that she was bullied by Trent and resorted to desperate measures to escape his constant monitoring. 'I believe he has put cameras and bugs in my home, so the only place I can try and have a private conversation is in my bathroom,' she wrote.
She also claimed, according to TMZ, that she believes Trent has copied the key to her bedroom door, and she gets dressed in her closet out of fear he will walk in on her unexpectedly.
'I used to be very social with my friends, like playing Scrabble, walking around in the park, sharing meals, but Trent has given them various reasons why I am not available,' she added.
Trent, the son of Joe Jackson's half-brother, attended a court hearing in LA Wednesday seeking to have the TRO against him removed.
The temporary restraining order banned Trent from using Katherine's credit cards, staying in the guest house and coming within 100 yards of her.
He claimed through his lawyer he is not a threat to Katherine, the NY Daily News reported. The judge denied his motion to dismiss and set another court hearing for March 23.
It's complicated: Katherine is the mother of late superstar Michael Jackson and was by his side during his 2005 molestation trial as was his father Joe Jackson, pictured March that year
In a sworn statement, Katherine's daughter Rebbie, who is with her in London, said that Trent failed to call paramedics when her mother 'passed out' as Trent was driving her to Las Vegas.
'Instead of calling an ambulance, Trent called one of my nephews who told him to take her to the hospital,' Rebbie wrote.
'The doctors at the hospital said she was dehydrated and had high blood pressure. Instead of bringing her home where she wanted to be, Trent took her to a hotel in Santa Monica again away from her kids.'
Rebbie claims Trent is looking to control her mother for his own financial and personal benefit.
Cara Kilbey has revealed her boyfriend Daniel Harris has departed prison just weeks after he was slapped with a two year sentence for stashing ill-gained cash last month.
The former TOWIE star took to Instagram on Friday to share a selfie with their 13-month-old baby daughter in which she penned a caption to her 346,000 followers reading: 'Daddy we're waiting... it's hometime'.
Daniel, who served a year of his spell in Wandsworth prison, was accused of masterminding a drugs empire yet was cleared of drugs charges and found guilty of stashing 116,000 in ill-gotten gains hidden in his daughter's bedroom.
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Yay! Cara Kilbey has revealed her boyfriend Daniel Harris has returned home from prison after he was slapped with a two year sentence for smuggling cash last month
Cara, who starred on the ITVBe show for four seasons before departing in 2012, has been patiently waiting while her partner languished in jail, shortly after the birth of Penelope, who she brought to visit him one to two times a week.
In her latest snap, the pretty star posed in a car, pouting while her daughter sat peacefully behind her - with the view of a police van and bars in the rear.
The image comes shortly after her LA-based brother Tom, who also appeared on TOWIE, took to Instagram to applaud the news that Daniel was to be released.
With a sweet image of Cara and Penelope, he added the caption: 'I don't think I've ever had a phone call that has made me cry like that, you have your daddy back.
Happier than ever: The former TOWIE star took to Instagram on Friday to share a selfie with their 13-month-old baby daughter in which she penned a caption to her 346,000 followers reading: 'Daddy we're waiting... it's hometime'
Happier times: Cara, who starred on the ITVBe show for four seasons before departing in 2012, has been patiently waiting while her partner languished in jail, shortly after the birth of Penelope, who she brought to visit him one to two times a week
'I love you so much Cara the s**t they have put you through this whole year, no one will ever understand but the truth always come out in the end. Thank you @hannahgaboardihair @shaunasmithxx for putting a smile on everyone's faces. To you Penelope and Daniel I love you three x'
Daniel was accused of making 'vast profits' by sending drug couriers on mopeds disguised as trainee cab drivers around central London over three-and-a-half years.
He was also charged over a 200,000 heroin deal which was scuppered by police in May 2015.
Relieved: He was cleared of making 'vast profits' by sending drug couriers on mopeds disguised as trainee cab drivers around central London
On the hunt: When police searched the lavish apartment Harris shared with Ms Kilbey and their daughter Penelope Blu in Theydon Bois, Essex, officers found 116,000 in cash in an Asda shopping bag inside a black holdall in the child's bedroom
An Old Bailey jury deliberated for a day to clear him of plotting to supply cocaine and heroin, but found him guilty of stashing the money.
Police launched a covert surveillance operation tracking Harris's movements over the course of more than a year before swooping to arrest him in March 2016. The couple have been separated for almost a year when he was taken into custody in early 2016.
The couple met while Harris was living out in Spain with his father and she was on holiday there. They returned to the UK in September 2015 when she fell pregnant.
Other men, some of whom were his friends, went on to plead guilty to their part in the plots and have been jailed for more than 68 years.
That was then... He lived in a luxury flat with the star and their baby daughter surrounded by designer clothes and shoes
Just the two of us: Cara appeared on the first four seasons of The Only Way is Essex, has 458,000 followers on Twitter and 344,000 Instagram followers
Mastermind: Jay Tripp, 34, was jailed for 16 years and six months (left), along with his right hand man Joseph Maloney, 33, (right) who was jailed for 15 years
Evidence suggested the cocaine gang had a turnover of nearly 500,000 a week at the height of their activities.
They kept it under wraps by hiring an East End flat and lock-up where they stored six scooters and packaged the cocaine after it was cut with benzocaine.
He knew some of his friends were drug dealers and, after being let in on their secret during a ski holiday to Verbier in Switzerland, he made use of the moped delivery service once, he said.
DRUGS GANG JAILED FOR OVER 68 YEARS The other defendants have already been sentenced for their various involvement in either or both of the drugs plots. Joseph Maloney, 33, of Tower Hamlets, east London, received 15 years; Jay Tripp, 34, of Fyfield, Essex, 16-and-a-half years; Jack Lyman, 28, of Bexley, Kent, seven years; Danny Ward, 34, of Beckenham, Kent, 11 years; Nial Kellaghan, 29, of Greenwich, south-east London, seven years; Dean Standen, 34, of Sidcup, Kent, seven years and nine months; and Daniel Crook, 32, of HMP Peterborough, five years. Frederick Jennings, 20, of south-east London, was handed 21 months' detention suspended for 18 months with 200 hours of unpaid work. Advertisement
Daniel's father was arrested in December 2015 for allegedly smuggling drugs from Spain to the UK but he said that he in 'no way' had anything to do with it.
Prosecutor Peter Clement told the judge that he had been 'no mere custodian' of the money, but arranged for it to be gathered, collected it and kept it for weeks before it was discovered - 'all with a view to smuggling to another jurisdiction'.
He acknowledged the offence was not motivated by personal gain, instead arising 'out of his father's crisis rather than his own'.
But, he said, an aggravating factor was that the cash was tainted by organised crime and that its intended destination was outside the UK - Spain.
Defending, barrister David Whittaker told the court the unemployed defendant had no money and had not funded the costs of his trial.
Mr Cooke ordered him to pay 4,576 costs to be paid within 56 days and a victim surcharge of 120.
He said he was satisfied that, while Daniel may not be able to pay the sum himself, he could draw upon others for assistance. While three men watched proceedings from the public gallery, the defendant's TV star girlfriend was nowhere to be seen.
From left: Nial Kellaghan, 29, jailed for seven years; Jack Lyman, 28, jailed for seven years and Dean Standen, 34, jailed for seven years and nine months
From left: Frederick Jennings, 20, 21 months' detention suspended for 18 months with 200 hours of unpaid work; Daniel Ward, 34, jailed for 11 years; Danny Crooks, 32, jailed for five years
From a distance: Cara's father Gary, 58, was called to give evidence as part of the defence case
Helping hand: Cara's millionaire father bankrolled the luxury lifestyle of his daughter and Daniel the court heard
She recently shot down eyewitnesses' claims that she had a huge public row with her boyfriend Pete Wicks over the weekend.
But things seemed far from rosy for Megan McKenna and her tattooed beau, as he pulled out joining her for an interview on ITV's This Morning on Friday.
Struggling to contain her emotions as she spoke with Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford, she said of her ability to be in the same room as Pete: 'Its complicated at the moment with me and him. Its not the best time for us to be together.'
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It's complicated: An emotional Megan McKenna revealed during an interview on Friday's edition of This Morning that things are 'complicated' between her and boyfriend Pete Wicks
Apart: The pair's romance recently hit choppy waters - and they're now spending time apart
Ruth - who had previously shared the news that Pete had pulled out at the last minute - proceeded to question Megan on how she'd react if her beau had joined her for the interview.
With her lips quivering, the brunette responded: 'Id be professional. Out of respect for each other we wont speak about each other. But right now its complicated.'
While Pete changed his mind about appearing on the show for the live interview, Megan was accompanied by her TOWIE co-stars Bobby Norris Cole and Kate Wright.
Brave face: Visibly moved while talking about Pete, Megan struggled to maintain a smile
Squad: Megan was joined by her TOWIE co-stars Kate Wright and Bobby Norris Cole
Going it alone: While Pete was scheduled to be on the show with her, Megan was forced to sit for the interview without him as he pulled out at the last minute
Denied: Megan and Pete had reportedly been spotted rowing in public - which a spokesperson for the brunette beauty was quick to deny
Another day at the office: The trio promoted the new season of their popular ITV2 reality show
And things appeared to be complicated on the romantic front for Kate, who recently faced rumours of a romance with retired footballer Rio Ferdinand.
She said that dating under the glare of the spotlight was 'really awkward', while admitting that she and ex Dan Edgar are now 'avoiding each other'.
Megan and Pete appear to have called time on their relationship in more ways than once, as The Sun reported on Friday that the pair have unfollowed each other on social media.
Candid: They spoke candidly about what to expect on the show, as well as their past storylines
Consummate professional: Megan did admit that she'd have been 'professional' had Pete not reneged on his agreement to appear on This Morning alongside her
Cutting ties: Megan's interview took place as it was revealed that she and Pete have unfollowed each other on social media
Keeping things respectful: Megan revealed that she and Pete aren't speaking about each other publicly out of respect
Brunette Megan's revelations about the state of her romance come days after eyewitnesses claimed to see the pair furiously rowing in public.
However, when contacted by MailOnline for comment, a representative for Megan refuted the claims, stating: 'There was no row. The Uber they were waiting for had just cancelled.'
Jovial spirits: Despite her heart-wrenching times, Megan was all smiles during her interview
Staying mum: Megan wouldn't confirm outright whether she and Pete have actually split
Emotional: Megan fought back tears as she spoke about her turbulent relationship with Pete
Best face forward: Megan looked glam, appearing on the show wearing lashings on makeup
Yet, their romance could be set to face even more issues in the coming months - with Pete's ex Harriette Harper reportedly the next in line to join the TOWIE cast.
According to The Sun, the glamour model, who is currently starring on MTV's Ex On The Beach, has attracted show bosses due to the drama she could cause on the next series - after Megan's fiery reaction to Pete's infidelity in October.
A source told the newspaper: 'Megan has unleashed utter fury on Pete before when he rekindled a relationship with an ex.'
'Bosses know Harriette will ruffle a few feathers, while obviously adding to the show's glamour.'
Group shot: Following the interview, they made their way backstage to pose for a group shot
Enduring hit: Their BAFTA-winning reality TV show TOWIE is launching its 20th season
Not short on drama: Over the seven years their show has been on the air, fans have been entertained by countless showdowns, pairings and breakups among castmembers
Glaring spotlight: During her interview, Kate spoke about the complication of dating on TOWIE
The (p)lace to be: Kate wowed as she appeared on the show in a cream lace-up sweater
The insider added of the beauty, who dated Pete in 2015 prior to his arrival on the show: 'Once Ex On The Beach finishes, she'll be free to join TOWIE.'
If she does make an appearance, Harriette will no doubt stir up Megan's famously fiesty temper which fans saw during The Only Way Is Marbs last year, after news of his sexting scandal came to light.
The brunette embarked on a screeching rant at the tattooed hunk on the beach in Spain after discovering that he had sent explicit text messages to several women.
All smiles: Ever the professional, the reality TV star was back to her smiling self as she greeted photographers posted outside ITV's London studios
Tearing up: The brunette cut a casually cool figure in a pair of severely ripped skinny jeans
Stepping out: Her TOWIE co-star Kate Wright was seen leaving the studios at the same time
Flip-flops: Like Megan, she took some pressure off her feet by throwing on a pair of flip-flops
However, it was only on Valentine's Day that the pair had put on a loved-up display on social media, as they recreated their first date at Quaglino's in London.
Taking to Instagram, the TOWIE couple shared several snaps from their romantic evening, with Megan revealing that she'd been 'spoilt' by her man, after being gifted with a giant bouquet of red roses.
The former CBB star looked delighted in the shot, which she captioned: 'Valentines with my [love]. He spoilt me... like always.'
Cold shoulder? Things had reportedly been frosty between the couple for quite some time
Drama: The ups and downs of the couple's romance have been well documented on TOWIE
A storm is brewing: Megan and Pete's romance could be set to face more issues in the coming months - with Pete's ex Harriette Harper reportedly the next in line to join TOWIE (above)
She's known for her very sexy selfies - and Emily Ratajkowski showed off her sartorial style when she was pictured heading back to her hotel in Paris on Friday.
The 25-year-old, who is currently staying at The Ritz, looked beautiful wearing a white and pink floral gypsy top in chiffon before she later slipped into a stylish green silk duster coat with a skimpy T-shirt.
She teamed the pretty number with a pair of Mom jeans but smartened them up with a pair of low backless court shoes in lemon and RAEN sunglasses, just hours before she opted for yet more denim to go with her second look of the day.
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'Puttin' on the Ritz': Emily Ratajkowski who is currently staying at The Ritz, looked beautiful wearing a white and pink floral gypsy top in chiffon before she later slipped into a stylish green silk duster coat with a skimpy T-shirt
Draping a cream trench coat over her shoulders, she gave photographers a sassy smile before heading inside.
In Paris for Fashion Week, she jazzed up her look further, wearing a pair of thick framed white retro shades by RAEN and carried a pink box bag in her hand.
Borrowing from the Sixties in style, the stunner nailed the funky yet fresh look with the light and bright shades perfect for the burgeoning spring sunshine.
Her later ensemble was equally stylish yet contrasting in theme as she rocked the fur trimmed silk duster coat to give her T-shirt and jeans look a touch more drama.
All in the details: In Paris for Fashion Week, she jazzed up her look further, wearing a pair of thick framed white retro shades by RAEN and carried a pink box bag in her hand
Looking incredible: Emily posed up a storm while outside her hotel
Sensational: Her later ensemble was equally stylish yet contrasting in theme as she rocked the fur trimmed silk duster coat to give her T-shirt and jeans look a touch more drama
The night before, the brunette beauty went for a very different look at the Cocktail Reception For The LVMH Prize 2017, flaunting her incredibly midriff in a striped shirt.
Emily's trip comes after she attended the Vanity Fair post-Oscars party on Sunday night, wearing an incredible ball gown.
She recently said that she hoped fashion could provide a positive message during these highly political times.
The actress, who has campaigned for Bernie Sanders and women's rights, said that she hoped clothes could help people who feel 'hopeless' in an interview with W Magazine.
Green with envy: Passersby were no doubt astounded by Emily's famous beauty
'I think a lot of people feel really hopeless,' she told the W reporter.
'Anything that has a positive message probably has a good impact, ultimately.'
However, Emily insisted that rallies were more important than fashion for making a political statement.
'Messages are really important, but you know, really supporting causes and getting out there for rallies is even more important, still.'
Midriff baring: Emily flaunted her incredibly toned tummy in a midriff-baring silk blue, red and white blouse at a LMVH cocktail reception in Paris the night before
April 8, 1959 Feb. 25, 2017
On Feb. 25, 2017, Rocky lost a long battle to cancer.
Born in Lebanon in 1959, he went to high school in Dallas.
Rocky is survived by his longtime partner, Marsha Richardson; son Brock Blacklaw; daughter Brittany Blacklaw; stepson Sean Richardson; mother Marcia (Davis) Skelton; stepfather Ned Skelton; brother Todd Blacklaw; sister Nicole Weaver; stepsister Kim Skelton; four grandchildren, Easton, Kora, Taylor and Braedon; and several nieces and nephews.
Rocky was preceded in death by his father, Ron Blacklaw of Lebanon.
Rocky spent most of his career in designing and engineering of hitching and coupling for the commercial trucking industry. He was instrumental in helping write the safety standards for the commercial trucking industry. Everything and anything Rocky ever built, designed, created was done to perfection. He was a wizard at fabrication and working with metals; there was nothing he could not create.
He loved to travel and spend time in the summer with his grandkids on the water. He will be missed beyond words and will forever leave an empty spot in our hearts.
Rocky never liked attention being focused on him, therefore at his request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Oregon.
They're the loved up couple who are not afraid of showing their affection for one another.
And soon Ruby Rose, 30, will be reunited with the woman who's stolen her heart, Jessica Origliasso, 32, just in time for Sydney's Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival.
Ruby has flown home after a hectic week in Los Angeles filled with Oscars events, photo shoots and filming scenes for upcoming flicks Meg and Pitch Perfect 3 that prevented her being in Sydney to collect her LGBTI Celebrity Of The Year Award on Thursday.
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Mardi Gras homecoming! Actress Ruby Rose is returning to Sydney to watch girlfriend Jessica Origliasso perform for the LGBTI weekend celebration
She will fly in to Sydney watch The Veronicas perform for the LGBTI weekend celebration, according to a report by The Daily Telegraph.
Since going public with their romance last year, the Orange Is The New Black actress has been trying to make positive change for the Australian LGBTI community.
The Resident Evil star has even written, directed and played a starring role in The Veronica's music video On Your Side.
Beaming: Earlier in the week, Jessica accepted the LGBTI Celebrity Of The Year award on her Ruby's behalf and also revealed that they were living together
And on Thursday, Jessica accepted the LGBTI Celebrity Of The Year award on Ruby's behalf at the Sydney Opera House, taking the opportunity to reveal that the two were living together.
'We might not always be represented by our government, but it is such a huge victory when someone like Ruby is admired and embraced for her work and simply being herself,' the Hook Me Up songstress told the audience.
After thanking the crowds she said, 'I know Ruby will be so proud to put this front and centre in our home.'
Positive change: Jessica said, 'We might not always be represented by our government, but it is such a huge victory when someone like Ruby is admired and embraced for her work and simply being herself'
The 32-year-old looked radiant as she took the stage dressed in a floral kimono.
Wearing her brunette locks out, Jessica kept her signature makeup with a bold red lip teamed with a cat-flick eyeliner.
Meanwhile, Ruby will also attend the official ROVA drone launch party on March 6 at the Sydney Hilton but it's unclear if her 32-year-old love will accompany her.
Positive change: Jessica said, 'We might not always be represented by our government, but it is such a huge victory when someone like Ruby is admired and embraced for her work and simply being herself'
Heading home: According to a report in the Daily Telegraph Ruby will jet home to Sydney from her new base in LA to see Jessica perform at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mard Gras
Over the weekend the pair appeared hand in hand at a Kari Feinstein's Pre-Oscar Style Lounge at the Andaz Hotel in Los Angeles.
Meanwhile, the couple cemented their love with a touching Instagram tribute on Valentine's Day.
Out in LA: Over the weekend the pair appeared hand in hand at a Kari Feinstein's Pre-Oscar Style Lounge at the Andaz Hotel in Los Angeles
Loved up: The pair cemented their love with a touching Instagram tribute on Valentine's Day
Having known each other for more than a decade, Ruby uploaded a collage of four pictures spanning their time together.
The Orange Is The New Black star's comical caption began: 'We have made some pretty bad decisions in our lives... mostly fashion related.'
Within the photos, the svelte performers were seen wearing a range of different styles, haircuts and ensembles from years gone by.
Music to their ears: Jessica and Ruby rekindled their romance after starring in the video clip for The Veronicas' single On Your Side
'We just jam every night': The Orange Is The New Black star has also offered a glimpse of her domestic life with The Veronicas singer
Ruby tenderly added: 'but one decision we have never regretted is loving each other.. happy Valentine's Day my @jessicaveronica.'
Jessica showed her appreciation of the post in the comments section, by using six love-related emojis, including two girls kissing, a love heart and a lipstick kiss.
Jessica and Ruby first dated in 2008 and rekindled their romance after starring in the video clip for The Veronicas' single On Your Side.
Gerogia Love had an 'absolute hoot' as she took part in Sydney's famous Mardi Gras celebrations.
The Bachelorette joined fellow celebrities Joel Creasey, Rhys Nicholson, Gina Liano, Matt Mitcham Lucy Durack, Dolly Diamond and Gretel Killeen for a night of 'outrageously naughty games' at the Seymour Centre.
Georgia clearly enjoyed her time at the event, dubbed GAYmes Night, taking to Instagram to upload a picture of their 'squad'.
Squad: Georgia Love (bottom right) joined fellow celebrities Joel Creasey, Rhys Nicholson, Gina Liano, Matt Mitcham Lucy Durack, Dolly Diamond and Gretel Killeen for a night of 'outrageously naughty games' at the Seymour Centre on Friday
She wrote: 'What do you get when you mix 2 comedians, a TV host, 2 reality stars, a musical theatre icon, a drag queen and an Olympic gold medallist? Only the most fabulous squad in our nation's history!
'@joelcreasey & @rhysnicholson's GAYmes Night was an absolute hoot and the perfect warm up for #mardigras tomorrow!! (sic)'
In an apparent blow to boyfriend Lee Elliot, the 27-year-old then declared she'd found a new favourite person in musical theatre star Lucy.
Alongside a snap of the duo, she wrote: 'Sorry to everyone else I've ever met but @lucydurack is my favourite of all the humans.'
Replacement: In an apparent blow to boyfriend Lee Elliot, the 27-year-old (R) then declared she'd found a new favourite person in musical theatre star Lucy (L)
Joining the party: Georgia is set to take part in the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday, appearing on Melbourne nightclub Poof Doofs float. Pictured with boyfriend Lee
According to the event organisers, Georgia had to battle it out on stage with her fellow celebrities in a series of naughty games.
Georgia is set to take part in the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday, appearing on Melbourne nightclub Poof Doofs float.
While all seems well with the TV star's personal life, she recently opened up about her struggles professionally.
After leaving her job as a regional newsreader in Tasmania to search for love on national television, Georgia admitted the gamble could see her struggle to be employed as a journalist again.
'I'm loving being back in the media': Georgia fears she will struggle to find journalist work after Bachelorette stint but 'absolutely loves' her gig as a regular guest on Studio 10
Risked it for love: Georgia said she understands that her no-holds-barred reality TV appearance could be a turn off for news organisations
She told The Daily Telegraph that she believes being 'vulnerable' on the reality show could see her find it hard to get journalism work, but has fortunately fallen in love with her work as a regular guest on Studio 10.
Georgia said she appreciates that her no-holds-barred reality TV appearance last year could be a turn off for news organisations.
'News directors might have a hesitation in having seen me be so vulnerable on the show and talk about my opinions and my views and things like that,' she said, 'as journalists, were not meant to.'
Previous work: Georgia left her job as a newsreader for WIN News in Tasmania to appear on The Bachelorette
Behind the desk: She has guest hosted The Project on one occasion with popular results
'I understand that was a risk in going on the show for me, but I certainly still have a passion for (journalism) and Im loving being back in the media,' she said.
But since leaving her job as a newsreader for WIN News in Tasmania to appear on The Bachelorette, Georgia has found success as a television panel host and media personality.
She has guest hosted The Project on one occasion and appears as a regular guest on daytime chat show Studio 10 since the end of last year.
They are two of the most well-renowned actors on the planet at the moment - and are starring together in new blockbuster action movie Kong: Skull Island.
And British hunk Tom Hiddleston revealed he got to film some pretty romantic scenes - including one in an open-doored helicopter at sunset over the Pacific ocean - with his stunning co-star Brie Larson.
So BBC Radio 2 show host Chris Evans couldn't resist trying to find out if there was a budding love affair between the stars when Tom stopped by the radio studios on Friday morning.
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Love in the air? Chris Evans couldn't resist trying to find out if there was a budding attraction between Tom Hiddleston (right) and his Kong: Skull Island co-star Brie Larson (left) during a radio interview on Friday morning
The red-haired host was pushing his superstar guest to say something about his Academy Award-winning co-star's stunning looks - but the British actor would not be drawn.
Though Tom did admit a Huey helicopter ride with Brie over a sunlit ocean was 'one of the great gigs'.
The Eton-educated actor, who has been tipped as a possible replacement for Daniel Craig as James Bond, told The Chris Evans Breakfast Show: 'Brie Larson and I got to go in the island of Oahu in Hawaii, at four o'clock in the afternoon, with no doors on the helicopter, the blades running..'
Chris interjected and jokingly said: 'Brie Larson sitting next to you, that must have been terrible.'
No holds barred: Chris was pushing his superstar guest to say something about his stunning co-star Brie Larson's stunning looks - but the British actor would not be drawn
Enthusiastic: Tom appeared to have enjoyed the interview, despite Chris' teasing, and he grinned broadly as he left BBC Wogan House in London after the early morning show, wearing a pair of grey Aquatalia shoes
Tom laughed nervously in reply, then added: 'It was lovely', before explaining how the two actors then flew out into the Pacific Ocean together.
The presenter interjected, saying: 'Weren't you tempted to propose at that point? To just have a go? You might as well have a go!'
Tom laughed and merely answered: 'It was a bit loud up there, you know.'
Chris repeatedly pointed out how gorgeous Brie is throughout the interview - and Tom refused to be drawn every time.
Dewy eyed? The 36-year-old British star would not be drawn on Brie's beauty but did admit a Huey helicopter ride with the actress over a sunlit ocean was 'one of the great gigs'
Working out: Tom said he was working out at the gym a lot while filming for his active role in the new blockbuster action movie Kong: Skull Island
But Tom did bond with the radio host over their mutual love of the same film, Paul Thomas Anderson's 1999 masterpiece, Magnolia.
One of The Night Manager's co-stars in Kong: Skull Island is John C. Reilly, who also starred in the presenter and actor's favourite movie, which follows its Californian characters' interrelated experiences as they search for the meaning of life.
Chris said: '[John C. Reilly] is in my favourite film of all time.'
Tom asked: 'Which is?' and Chris replied: 'Magnolia'.
Tom, who sounded thrilled, said: 'I knew you were going to say that - mine too.' He then added: 'It's that great ensemble... Magnolia is amazing.'
Movie buffs: The actor and radio host both bonded over their mutual love of the same film, Paul Thomas Anderson's 1999 masterpiece, Magnolia
Before things could go any further into film buff discussions, star of the moment Ed Sheeran arrived at the BBC Radio 2 show studios to do a live session - on the day his new album Divide was released.
The flame-haired chart buster then revealed that he and Tom are friends - and that he even played songs from Divide to his fellow British star more than six months ago.
Ed told the programme: 'I played Tom the album last summer and he still remembers.'
Tom said: 'I got a little preview, didn't I?'
Ed then confirmed he had shown his pal the songs while they spent time together in Rome last summer, and said that although 70 per cent of his new 'family oriented' album was ready at that time, he was having 'too much fun' to complete it.
Old pals: Ed Sheeran revealed that he had shown Tom Hiddleston songs from his eagerly awaited album Divide, released on Friday, last summer in Rome
She's known for her very racy outfits - but Rihanna was sporting a rather conservative look when she attended the a Dior photocall and fashion show in Paris on Friday.
The 29-year-old was rather covered up for the occasion ahead at the Christian Dior Fall/Winter 2017 showcase, wearing a dark long black coat and leather hat.
Adding her own quirky twist to her look, she wore a slick of dark berry gothic lipstick which made sure all eyes were on her.
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B**** better have my lipstick: Rihanna wore gothic dark berry make-up with a conservative coat and leather hat as she attended the Dior fashion show in Paris on Friday
Working it: She hid her eyes behind a pair of dark sunglasses and added some further glamour to her look with chunky jewellery
She hid her eyes behind a pair of dark sunglasses and added some further glamour to her look with chunky jewellery.
Her talons were long and painted forest green as she smiled for a series of photographs. She carried a patent mini bag which she wore across her body.
No doubt Rihanna's coat covered up an haute couture outfit which was worn underneath.
Stunner: The 29-year-old was rather covered up for the occasion ahead at the Christian Dior Fall/Winter 2017 showcase, wearing a dark long black coat and leather hat
Nailed it! Her talons were long and painted forest green as she smiled for a series of photographs. She carried a patent mini bag which she wore across her body
Covering up: She's known for her very racy outfits - but Rihanna was sporting a rather conservative look when she attended the a Dior photocall and fashion show in Paris on Friday
But she did flash a glimpse of her black suede heeled thigh-high boots which poked out the end of her coat.
As well as the photocall, Rihanna also attended the show and sat in the FROW alongside a host of celebrities.
Kate Moss, Rosamund Pike, Sienna Miller and Karlie Kloss were also there as well as British model Daisy Lowe.
Dior have recently been pushing a stunning and unique style comprising of a sporty style waistband adorned with Christian Dior writing, with frothy sheer over layers.
Here she is! Rihanna was introduced to the room by a Dior associate
All eyes on her: Adding her own quirky twist to her look, she wore a slick of dark berry Gothic lipstick
Pillar of eduction: The outing comes two days after Rihanna was named Humanitarian of the Year by Harvard University
Sheer delight: The models looked incredible in the trademark style Dior of late
The outing comes two days after Rihanna was named Humanitarian of the Year by Harvard University.
The pop star made an appearance at the Ivy League school to accept a plaque given to her by Allen Counter, the director of the Harvard Foundation.
The star, who never graduated high school, earned the prestigious award thanks to her various charitable efforts, including her role in creating an oncology center in her birthplace of Barbados.
Jet set: The pop star made an appearance at the Ivy League school to accept a plaque given to her by Allen Counter, the director of the Harvard Foundation, the day before the show
The FROW: Rihanna sat pride of place at the show as she flashed a glimpse of her thigh-high boots
Chatting away: Rihanna's leather look was incredibly chic
After making a name for herself on international runways, she's become a front row regular at Europe's major Fashion Weeks.
And Daisy Lowe, 28, stayed true to form on Friday afternoon, when she joined a long list of VIPs to attend Christian Dior's autumn/winter 2017 show at Paris Fashion Week.
The brunette beauty wowed as she arrived at the hot ticket presentation wearing a flattering black minidress, which boasted a high neckline and asymmetrical buttons.
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Passion for fashion: Daisy Lowe was among the guests at Christian Dior's autumn/winter 2017 Paris Fashion Week presentation on Friday
She added extra height to her frame with a pair of black heels, while a soft metallic handbag added a burst of brightness to her ensemble.
Wearing her raven tresses in a half updo, her blunt bangs perfectly framed her pretty face, which was treated to a smudge of deep red lipstick.
And she was in good company at the show, joining the likes of Rihanna, Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Karlie Kloss and Rosamund Pike.
Mini: The 28-year-old beauty stepped out in style, wearing a black high-neckline minidress
Burst of brightness: A soft metallic handbag added a burst of brightness to her ensemble
The night before, Daisy turned heads once again at the Chloe AW/17 after-party, where she opted for a sexy but sophisticated plunging gown.
She flaunted both her natural beauty and sensational body as she first arrived in a petrol blue frock, which plunged all the way to her navel to give a saucy glimpse of her famous cleavage to all.
The dress fell into soft sleeves with vintage pleats on the shoulders, before it nipped in at her womanly waist and skimmed her slender figure to the floor, to keep the look both sexy and classy.
Plenty to smile about: Daisy looked excited at the prospect of attending the Dior show as she strutted inside the star-studded fashion event
Leggy lady: The model's fantastic figure was on full display as she strutted her stuff
When in Paris! Rihanna looked painfully stylish in a lengthy navy coat paired with black boots and a leather black beret. She wore her hair in long loose waves pulled into a ponytail
What row? Larking around on the front row, Sienna Miller and Kate Moss looked worlds away from their famous feud, in which they fell out over Sienna's relationship with Jude Law during the mid-noughties, after becoming engaged in December 2004
The girls: Kate was not the only Moss in attendance as her younger half-sister Lottie (right) sat alongside her on the FROW although dodged her sibling's shadow by sitting with Charlotte Le Bon, Sai Bennett and Ana Girardot (left-centre right)
Tying the look together in a typically effortless fashion, the recent Strictly star accessorised with a nude leather bag and a selection of shimmering necklaces - which alluded further to her bust.
She left her hair in its sleek, everyday style and added only a light sweeping of bronzer to her face, to showcase her naturally glowing complexion in all its glory.
Daisy has been getting back to her fashion duties after touring the country with her Strictly Come Dancing co-stars.
As the tour came to an end last month, the beauty took to Instagram to pay tribute to her partner Aljaz Skorjanec, who she has formed a close friendship with since first appearing on the beloved BBC show in September.
Fashion, darling! The raven-haired beauty rubbed shoulders with the style elite
Off they go! The march of the models was in full swing as they strutted along the runway in a graceful formation
Sheer delight: The models looked incredible in the trademark style Dior of late
Sharing a photo of the pair onstage together, she wrote to fans: 'For the last time last night.... our waltz- thank you @aljazskorjanec for truly being the greatest partner I could have ever wished for... it was such an honour.'
The 30-date tour kicked off on January 20, 2017 at the Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham and featured Louise with partner Kevin Clifton; Danny Mac with Oti Mabuse as well as winner Ore Oduba and Karen.
Ed Balls was reunited with Katya Jones, Daisy danced once again with Aljaz Skorjanec and Lesley was partnered with Gorka Marquez.
Strictly's tour culminated in a final show at London's O2 Arena on February 12.
Taking the plunge: The night before, Daisy lead the glamour at the Chloe AW/17 after-party
Peek-a-boob! She arrived in a petrol blue frock, which plunged all the way to her navel to give a saucy glimpse of her famous cleavage to all
Jeremy McConnell was pictured arriving in Liverpool on Wednesday ahead of his permanent move to the city to be closer to his son, Caben-Albi.
The 22-year-old was pictured arriving at the airport with seven big suitcases, after leaving his home in Dublin.
While a friend was pushing five giant cases, Jeremy lugged two smaller ones.
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He's got a lot of baggage: Jeremy McConnell arrived in Liverpool permanently on Wednesday... as ex Stephanie Davis revealed they are 'committed to co-parenting'
Getting better: Jeremy has been staying close to Stephanie (pictured) and their six week old son after he was confirmed to be the father following a recent DNA test
Looking breezy, the former flame of Stephanie Davis wore a tight white T-shirt with black skinny jeans, completing his look with a leather jacket.
He wore a pair of chunky boots as he flashed a host of inkings.
Jeremy has been staying close to Stephanie and their six week old son after he was confirmed to be the father following a recent DNA test.
Moving on: The 22-year-old was pictured arriving at the airport with seven big suitcases, after leaving his home in Dublin
Over your allowance: Jeremy's pal kindly wheeled along five giant suitcases for him
He recently tweeted how much he had been enjoying his trip to Liverpool, following a short visit, writing: 'Had an amazing few days, feel blessed'.
Jeremy and Stephanie have finally let sleeping dogs lie where their year-long disagreement over the paternity of their child Caben is involved.
And having reconnected following the news that Jeremy is indeed the father, he and Stephanie have been spotted out and about together, caring for their newborn son.
In high spirits: Jeremy has been staying close to Stephanie and their six week old son after he was confirmed to be the father following a recent DNA test
On his way: He recently tweeted about how much he had been enjoying his trip to Liverpool, following a short visit, writing: 'Had an amazing few days, feel blessed'
In turn, the rumour mill has been sent into overdrive, speculating that baby Caben has in fact brought the previously warring couple back together romantically.
But Stephanie has now come forward to iron out matters.
A statement released by her representation, on behalf of the former Celebrity Big Brother star, said: 'Stephanie wants to address the rumours that have been reported in the press over the last few days regarding herself and Jeremy.
Settling in: Jeremy managed to fit all his cases in a black cab
And he's off: He had a smile on his face as he prepared to be reunited with his boy
'At this present time they're co-parenting and it works.
'Together they're discussing Caben's wants and needs and deciding what's best. Caben will always be their number one priority and being the best parents to their little boy is paramount to them both.
'Stephanie would like to thank everyone for all the support that they continue to give.'
Stephanie gave birth six weeks ago, and Jeremy is thought to have been spending much of the last fortnight with her and Caben, in her native Liverpool.
'We're co-parenting and it works!' Stephanie blasted rumours that she and Jeremy McConnell have rekindled their romance and insists they are 'deciding what's best' for new baby Caben
Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Stephanie explained that she is truly finding her feet as a mother, noting the challenges and triumphs she has faced both before and after having her adorable son.
The 23-year-old former Hollyoaks actress divulged all about her changing body as she revealed she is using revolutionary 3D Lipo treatments to spring back into shape while shunning the gym to ensure she is with Caben as much as possible.
Stephanie's embattled 2016 was a hot topic in many headlines after she became involved in an ill-fated relationship with Irish hunk Jeremy when she met him in the Celebrity Big Brother house in January.
Bouncing back: The 23-year-old former Hollyoaks actress divulged all about her changing body as she revealed she is using revolutionary 3D Lipo treatments to spring back into shape while shunning the gym to ensure she is with Caben as much as possible
After a whirlwind and often toxic romance, the duo split shortly before the actress announced she was pregnant with their baby - despite Jeremy vehemently denying paternity - a claim obliterated by paternity test results released earlier this month.
Following her tough year, Stephanie proved she is on the up for 2017, after her ex-beau visited Caben for the first time last week - yet her independent woman stance and beautiful baby is what has given the Liverpudlian beauty a new lease of life.
In her exclusive chat with MailOnline, Stephanie said: 'There's nothing I regret because I've learned so many lessons and I wouldn't have Caben if I hadn't done everything. It's the way my life's panned out.
No big deal@ While she has certainly shaped her life up, the soap starlet insists shaping her body up is the last of her worries, although she revealed her 3D Lipo treatments are giving her the helping hand she needs without having to leave Caben's side
'I bought a house recently. Honest to God how boring is my life, I love picking the blinds and everything. I find it empowering, it was a tough year and I quickly had to get myself together and work hard and do what I can for Caben.'
While she has certainly shaped her life up, the soap starlet insists shaping her body up is the last of her worries, although she revealed her 3D Lipo treatments are giving her the helping hand she needs without having to leave Caben's side.
She said: 'When you see in the papers when people have babies people are so extreme with it. They're so quick to lose it and they're in the gym and they're too drastic with it. They go to the gym every day and they have a tummy tuck and keep it quiet.
'But I'm not doing (these treatments) because I want to be a size 8. I'm doing it for myself because when I look in the mirror it wasn't my body. I'm only young and summer's coming out and I want to feel confident again.
Lost love: Stephanie's embattled 2016 was a hot topic in many headlines after she became involved in an ill-fated relationship with Irish hunk Jeremy McConnell when she met him in the Celebrity Big Brother house in January
'I won't be losing drastic weight. Now I'm looking after a baby. I don't want to be bandaged up and not looking after him or going to the gym and not be with him. I can take him with me for the 3D Lipo and just lie there and I get a massage on my belly while getting fit at the same time.'
Of the changes her body went through, she admitted she struggled with her body evolving at the tender age of 23 - although was fond of her new found cleavage.
The star revealed: 'The biggest change is that I ended up with massive boobs which I never had before, that was nice. I had like G boobs, F boobs and now I don't know whats happened they've gone dead saggy.
'I always had such a flat stomach and looking back now I did have a flat stomach and I now have a belly. Now I wonder why I complain and wonder why I didn't have my belly out all the time!
'There's too much pressure on people to get back in shape. I've seen people pregnant in the gym every day. I've embraced my body and I love my stretch marks on my boobs and the way everything is is because I created him.
Stunner: The star revealed: 'The biggest change is that I ended up with massive boobs which I never had before, that was nice. I had like G boobs, F boobs and now I don't know whats happened they've gone dead saggy'
Her miracle: 'I love that I've created this miracle but I just wanna feel better in myself and just get rid of that flab a little bit quicker while i can be there constantly for Caben.'
'I love that I've created this miracle but I just wanna feel better in myself and just get rid of that flab a little bit quicker while I can be there constantly for Caben.
'Everyone's been so lovely and there saying they can't believe how good I look after six weeks already. I can see the difference. My mum said stop being so hard on yourself you had a baby six weeks ago and you look amazing but I think it's because I'm still young but I've got that saggy belly and stuff.'
After seven years in the spotlight, when she first appeared in Over The Rainbow in 2010 and later scooped her Hollyoaks role, she has naturally become accustomed to life in the glare or the public eye - and the negativity it carries.
She explained: 'My closest friends, I don't have a big circle. Some of them have babies and some don't. On new year we stayed in. Things change when they go out pulling but I say I've just changed five nappies. They love Caben like he's their own.
Hot stuff! After seven years in the spotlight, when she first appeared in Over The Rainbow in 2010 and later scooped her Hollyoaks role, she has naturally become accustomed to life in the glare or the public eye - and the negativity it carries
Star: She explained: 'My closest friends, I don't have a big circle. Some of them have babies and some don't. On new year we stayed in. Things change when they go out pulling but I say I've just changed five nappies. They love Caben like he's their own'
'In this industry there's a lot of hangers-on who want to take advantage but you have to grow up. I don't take for hangers-on and I could count on one hand my really close friends and that's it and I could trust them with my life. I like it that way. I've got my baby, my friends, my mum and my management and that's all need.
'You go out, you make mistakes, you party but it's a new life with Caben. That whole celeb going out thing is very shallow. I don't know how I did things without him. I'm loving being a working mum - just doing bits and bobs but focusing on Caben.'
Of her labour, Stephanie revealed the good and the bad as she said: 'I was working myself up with the birth - they were offering me a cesarean but I said no. I was so scared to get an epidural or getting a needle.
'You work yourself up but it's so natural you get through it. I was saying if I can have a baby anyone can. I can't believe I did it and I'd do it over again. I had moments where I panicked (about doing it alone). I had my mum there and my nan and my aunty but it wasn't the same. I was panicking a lot.
Done it! Of her labour, Stephanie revealed the good and the bad as she said: 'I was working myself up with the birth - they were offering me a cesarean but I said no. I was so scared to get an epidural or getting a needle'
Quick one: 'It was like getting on a rollercoaster and I was so scared. I can't believe how strong I was, I didn't even shout out in pain'
'It was like getting on a rollercoaster and I was so scared. I can't believe how strong I was, I didn't even shout out in pain. I got one of the midwives to film it and I didn't care what happened to me. I just gave everything to pushing him out. I pushed him out in 25 minutes! The whole labour was only 4 and a half hours.'
While she is evidently loving life with Caben, Stephanie insists the exhaustion is tough: 'I'm good just tired. He hasn't been sleeping through the night. The no sleep is killing me. It's been the best thing (having him). He's six weeks now and he's been smiling at me and he's quite advanced for his age.
'People say are you sure he's not older than he is because he's laughing away and he's trying to speak with little gurgles. I know all mums think their baby is gorgeous but he really is beautiful.
'Exhaustion is the hardest. When I was pregnant I was so tiny so I had this massive bump and I was never sleeping. People said to me: "Wait till you have the baby" and I thought: "It can't be worse than this" but literally I live off coffee and that is it and I'm so used to not sleeping and I can't remember what a hot coffee or tea is like as I'm so used to that being cold by the time I get to it. Cold coffee and no sleep that's how I'm rolling.
'I'm breastfeeding. I loved it as soon as he came out he found his way to my boob straight away. Over the past few days he's been working so hard on my boob that he's had a few bottles but I'm loving breast feeding.'
She's got the fashion world at her feet as she strikes up a career as a model.
Showcasing her sartorial ways, Anais Gallagher looked effortlessly chic in a Christian Dior mini dress as she attended the high fashion designer's AW17 fashion show in Paris, France on Friday.
The 17-year-old model's fashion choice featured darling embroidery detail throughout as she commanded attention at the star-studded runway presentation.
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Chic: Anais Gallagher looked effortlessly chic in a Christian Dior mini dress as she attended the high fashion designer's AW17 fashion show in Paris, France on Friday
Her nude coloured garment featured tulle overlay for a flirty feel as she posed for photos on the FROW.
The stylish teenager - who is pals with fellow celebrity offsprings Brooklyn Beckham, 17, and Rocco Ritchie, 16 - added inches to her petite frame as she slipped on a pair of patent nude heels while teetering to her seat at the show.
Anais - who the only child of legendary rocker Noel Gallagher, 49, and socialite Meg Mathews, 50 - let her dress do the talking as she offset her skin-toned number with an eye-catching powder blue clutch and sprinkling of silver rings across her hands.
Leaving her blonde locks loose, she worked her golden mane into a centre parting before letting it cascade down her shoulders in a loose wave.
Intricate: The 17-year-old model's fashion choice featured darling embroidery detail throughout as she commanded attention at the star-studded runway presentation
Pretty as a picture: The teen style queen looked lovely in her printed dress and nude heels
Model behaviour: Anais looked positively ethereal with her long blonde locks tumbling around her shoulders in loose curls and natural make-up emphasising her pretty features
Recently, the teen spoke to the London Evening Standard's ES Magazine about her relationship with hard-partying supermodel Kate Moss, 44.
Anais' mother and Kate have been firm friends for 20 years, with both of them members of the notorious Primrose Hill set.
The up-and-coming model recently called the supermodel her 'second mum' on Instagram.
When in Paris! Rihanna looked painfully stylish in a lengthy navy coat paired with black boots and a leather black beret. She wore her hair in long loose waves pulled into a ponytail
What row? Larking around on the front row, Sienna Miller and Kate Moss looked worlds away from their famous feud, in which they fell out over Sienna's relationship with Jude Law during the mid-noughties, after becoming engaged in December 2004
Close: Anais' mother and Kate have been firm friends for 20 years, with both of them members of the notorious Primrose Hill set
The girls: Kate was not the only Moss in attendance as her younger half-sister Lottie (right) sat alongside her on the FROW although dodged her sibling's shadow by sitting with Charlotte Le Bon, Sai Bennett and Ana Girardot (left-centre right)
Passion for fashion: Daisy Lowe was among the guests at Christian Dior
Anais said: 'She's hilarious - one of the funniest people I know. She is the most loving, motherly figure. She texts me at least once a week. It's a good relationship because she's not my mum.'
The fashion starlet added that the notoriously wild supermodel is keen to help Anais out on the town.
She explained: 'She sneaks me out so we can go out together, and she makes really good peanut butter on toast.'
Sheer delight: The models looked incredible in the trademark style Dior of late
She's been a creative consultant with skin care and make-up brand Neutrogena since 2013.
And on Friday morning the actress was pictured sitting in a make-up chair as artist Carola Gonzalez added the final touches of color to her flawless face before the launch of Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Cosmetics line in Los Angeles.
The sassy 40-year-old Scandal star was dressed in a white, scoop-neck T-shirt with long bell sleeves, white pants with a thin grey stripe and white platform sandals.
Star make-up: Make-up artist Carola Gonzalez added final touches to Kerry Washington's flawless face as she prepped for the bow of Neutrogena's new line in Los Angeles on Friday
Her raven tresses were styled straight to cascade down her back as Caroline applied foundation, blusher and lipstick.
Kerry owes her beauty to her mixed race background that includes African, Jamaican, Native American, English and Scottish ancestry.
She joined Neutrogena after discovering there was very little make-up for women with her darker skin coloring.
'I remember being a little girl at the drugstore with my mother, looking at stockings, and having a realization that when a package says "nude," they're not talking about me," ' she told Elle in February 2016.
Touch up: The 40-year-old has been a creative consultant with the skin care and make-up brand since 2013
Pucker up: The sassy Scandal star pursed her lips as Carola added color. The actress donned a white, scoop-neck T-shirt with long, bell sleeves plus white pants with a thin grey stripe
'That was traumatizing for me as a little girl. Like, "Oh, they're talking about someone else's nude body, they're not talking about women of color. " '
The Bronx-born star continued: 'When I first started [at Neutrogena] there was no foundation for me,' she said, adding that women wrote to the company asking, 'How could you hire Kerry Washington when you don't have a color for her.'
Things are very different now at Neutrogena, thanks to Kerry. The new cosmetics line includes lightweight foundation, concealer and hydrating lip shine.
The final touch: Carola fussed over her as Kerry got her phone ready to take a selfie
Say cheese: The award winner joined the brand after realizing as a little girl that there was very little make-up for women of color
Meanwhile, aside from Neutrogena, Kerry is busy both as a mother and actress.
She and her Crown Heights actor husband Nnamdi Asomugha, 35, welcomed baby Caleb on October 5, a brother for their two-year-old daughter, Isabelle.
The four-time Emmy nominee continues her role as crisis-management expert Olivia Pope on the sixth season of the Beltway melodrama Scandal, which airs Thursdays on ABC.
And Kerry is set to produce and star in an adaptation of Aimee Molloy's upcoming debut novel The Perfect Mother about a missing baby, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
These two have not been shy about their romance since putting on a romantic display last Thanksgiving.
And Mariah Carey and boyfriend Bryan Tanaka proudly held hands as the two stepped out for dinner at Nobu in West Hollywood.
At one point, the 46-year-old leaned into her beau and whispered something in his ear.
Date night: Mariah Carey, 46, and boyfriend Bryan Tanaka, 33, proudly held hands as the two stepped out for dinner at Nobu in Los Angeles
Mariah displayed her sporty side in bright blue bomber jacket complete with red and cobalt-coloured trimming.
The mum-of-two paired her top half with a set of distressed skinny jeans, fishnet stockings and sky high heels.
Boyfriend Bryan, 33, was casual in a black T-shirt, denim jacket, jeans and trainers.
Athletic chic: The singer displayed her sporty side in bright blue bomber jacket complete with red and cobalt-coloured trimming
Comfortable: Dancer Bryan was casual in a black T-shirt, denim jacket, jeans and trainers
Earlier in the week, loved-up Mariah took to Instagram to share a snap of them kissing.
'No one knows what it means, but it's provocative ... it gets the people going!' read the caption, a quote from the Will Ferrell film, Blades of Glory.
Despite an E! reality show documenting their romance, it was only last month that Mariah officially confirmed Bryan as her boyfriend.
'It gets the people going!: Earlier in the week, loved-up Mariah took to Instagram to share a snap of them kissing
In an interview with the Associated Press, the songstress confirmed the couple were indeed an item, but wasn't interested in discussing it further.
'I just don't feel comfortable talking about my personal life. ...Me and my boyfriend don't want to do that,' she said.
While she isn't interested in speaking about her romance with the press, she's not opposed to lavish date nights and cute selfies.
On Saturday, Bryan was Mariah's date to Floyd Mayweathers' 40th birthday, which included A-list guests such as Justin Bieber.
Prior to her relationship with the dancer, she was engaged to Australian businessman James Packer.
Shirley MacLaine has revealed she once accidentally sweetened a coffee with cocaine, while visiting Carrie Fisher.
In an interview with the Associated Press, the 82-year-old recalled hanging out at the late actress's house, when someone stopped her from stopped her from drinking the hot drug cocktail.
'I didn't even know what it was,' she admitted.
Whoops: Shirley MacLaine has revealed she one accidentally sweetened a coffee Carrie Fisher had made her with cocaine (pictured 2012)
Speaking about her life, she revealed that she was never into drugs.
'I think of those times when my buddies would go in the bathroom and I'm left alone in the living room. 'What are they doing? Why am I alone?' They were doing drugs.
'The word went around that I wasn't interested,' she said. 'I've smoked two joints. I'm a dumb-dumb when it comes to how you can enjoy yourself.'
Close one: In an interview with the Associated Press, the 82-year-old recalled hanging out at the late actress's house, when someone stopped her from stopped her from obliviously drinking the hot drug cocktail
MacLaine doesn't like to reflect on the scope of her career, because, she says, 'I think I'm going to live a long time.' Yet she'll tell stories for days about her films in the studio system and the icons she's worked with.
She smiled proudly recalling how she taught Audrey Hepburn how to swear and how Hepburn, in turn, taught her how to dress ('sort of'). She remembered getting a call from Paramount production head Don Hartman scolding her for gaining weight during the production of 'The Trouble With Harry' because of all the meals she was eating with Alfred Hitchcock.
'Look, I wasn't tall, thin, blonde, ethereal, and all that stuff that was essential for men to jump on. Hitch wasn't interested in me, but, he was interested in me as a food partner. So, he insisted I have every meal with him. I think I gained 20 pounds,' MacLaine said. 'I was just out of the chorus; I hadn't had a full meal in years!'
Missed: Fisher, who previously had problems with drugs, died in December aged 60
The only director she's ever had a problem with was Billy Wilder because, 'he had a problem with women.' And she was horrified that he wrote her character in 'The Apartment,' Fran, after observing her learning how to play gin with 'Dean and Frank' and the Rat Pack crew.
'God, is that what he really thought of me?' she wondered.
'He terrified Marilyn. That's why she was always late,' MacLaine says. 'He was Austrian and he wanted everything exactly his way.'
Sat on a patio at a sea view restaurant in Malibu, the actress discussed the onetime expectations of women of her generation.
Next: Shirley MacLaine stars with Amanda Seyfried and Ann'Jewel Lee in The Last Word
'I asked my own mother once, 'What are we supposed to be?'' MacLaine says. 'She said, 'You're supposed to have nice hair and nice clothes and look pretty.' She really said that to me.'
MacLaine defied those modest prospects at every turn. The gamine, natural beauty became a movie star when the popular look was lacquered glamour. She sued a studio when she knew she'd been wronged professionally. She demanded the best of everyone she worked with, sometimes leading to less-than-effusive assessments from co-stars.
And she has continued to remain relevant in the youth-obsessed industry at every stage of her career. As she matured, so did her characters.
She doesn't attribute it to ambition, however, but to dance.
Her mother famously enrolled her in dance classes at age 3 to strengthen her weak ankles. It was there that MacLaine fell in love, she says, with 'discipline, music, teamwork, pain, balance and strength.'
Crew: (standing L-R) Anne Heche, writer Stuart Ross Fink director Mark Pellington and actor Thomas Sadoski, join AnnJewel and Shirley during the Sundance Film Festival
'If you can get through a ballet class every day of your life when you start at 3 ... I'm just putting this together as a matter of fact ... If you can do that starting at 3, then you are confident,' she says. 'I wasn't like the other girls who were out there trying to be pleasing. I was in class trying to be strong and survive.'
Not unlike MacLaine and her journey, the character she plays in her new movie 'The Last Word,' now in theaters, is a woman (Harriet) who also rose above societal gender constraints to become successful in business. Now in her 80s, and lonely, Harriet is thinking about her legacy and impact on the world and hires a local obituary writer (Amanda Seyfried) to write hers.
'I love playing bitches,' MacLaine says with a smirk. 'I love the whole idea of being so impossible that it's funny.'
'I love playing bitches': the actress revealed she loves 'the whole idea of being so impossible that it's funny'
The actress much prefers the hands-off style of independent films like the 'The Last Word.' She has also found that the indie world is the only place where she can find character-driven films.
MacLaine will read any script that comes her way but studio tent-pole franchises hold no interest for her. She also wants to make films that service the senior community.
'I love getting older, I truly do,' she says. 'I like the wisdom of it, the complications of it. I do not like the invisibility. I notice with other people, who are not particularly famous, when they are old and no one notices they're there. That's awful. I want to do a movie about that. I've got one I'm thinking of.'
Working: MacLaine said she will read any script that comes her way but studio tent-pole franchises hold no interest for her. She also wants to make films that service the senior community.
MacLaine is grateful for her health - she eats whatever she wants, she says, and gave up smoking last year but thinks a lot of it has to do with her never having been a big drinker or doing drugs.
All in all, MacLaine is content with life. She lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She has her 'doggies' (three rat terriers), her friends, her writing, her publisher and her 'An Evening With...' shows. She sees films (her favorites of last year were 'Moonlight' and 'The Edge of Seventeen'). She travels to New York for a few weeks a year to see shows, and tries to do about two films a year on location.
She also sees her younger brother, Warren Beatty, and his family sometimes, too. She says stories about them having been estranged are just not true.
'I have a very full life and at the same time a life where nothing much happens,' MacLaine says. 'It's the best I've ever been.'
They are genetically-blessed lovebirds who recently sent fans into a spiral of fierce speculation when Gigi was spotted sporting a ring on her wedding finger.
And Zayn Malik and Gigi Hadid looked as gorgeous and loved-up as ever when they stepped out in Paris on Friday night.
The Victoria's Secret Angel put on a breathtaking display in a stylish gingham shirt dress and thigh-high heeled boots - but pulled her sleeve down to hide her finger from onlookers.
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The beautiful couple: Zayn Malik and Gigi Hadid looked as loved up as ever when they stepped out in Paris on Friday with Gigi sporting a dramatic gingham shirt dress and thigh-high boots
The Vogue cover girl, 21, oozed sex appeal in the fashion-forward blue gingham shirt dress which she unbuttoned to reveal her tanned chest and toned shoulder.
Gigi teamed the dress with a pair of seriously seductive thigh-high skin-tight pointed-toe black boots which offered a glimpse of her sun-kissed skin.
She tied a thick leather belt around her waist, accentuating her gym-honed figure.
Sun-kissed supermodel: Gigi unbuttoned her shirt dress and flaunted her toned and tanned chest and shoulder
Sex appeal: Gigi donned a pair of seriously sexy thigh-high boots and clung on to Zayn's hand as the couple made their way along one of the French capital's cobbled streets
The beauty, who is known for her blonde beachy waves, slicked her tresses into a chic chignon bun.
She swept on bronze eye shadow and painted her lips with a berry stain.
Gigi finished her outfit with a pair of large hooped earrings as she hung on to Zayn's hand as the couple made their way along the French capital's cobbled streets.
Photogenic: Zayn, 24, competed with his fashionista girlfriend in the style stakes, wearing a neon yellow hoodie, leather leggings and a pair of Doc Marten boots
Helping hand: Zayn was every inch the protective boyfriend as he watched over the model
The fashionista's beau looked equally stylish for their night-time jaunt.
Zayn, 24, donned a neon yellow hoodie and a pair of leather trousers as he led Gigi through the scrum of photographers.
He paired his statement trousers with Doc Marten boots and added a black suede jacket to keep out any chill in the Paris air.
The One Direction star's tattoos were clearly visible as he held Gigi's hand.
The model recently sparked engagement rumours when she was pictured wearing an emerald ring on her wedding finger at the Tommy X Gigi fashion event in Paris earlier in the week.
Keeping it casual: The tattooed hunk was casually clad for his evening jaunt in Paris
Thigh's the limit: Gigi's stunning dress made the most of her endless legs
Engagement? Gigi sparked rumours earlier this week when she was spotted at a Tommy Hilfiger event wearing an emerald ring on her wedding finger
Back in January, Gigi had ignited rumours that the pair had become engaged when she was spotted wearing a simple band on her wedding finger.
The Victoria's Secret Angel was seen out and about in New York wearing the simple accessory - just weeks after reports suggested she has turned down a pre-Christmas proposal from Zayn.
A source close to the pair reportedly told Life & Style magazine: 'Shes only 21 and doesnt feel ready to tie the knot, so she turned him down.'
Keeping an eye on her: Zayn shot his girlfriend an adoring look. The pop star has accompanied Gigi to Paris Fashion Week where she faces a hectic schedule of catwalk shows
Implicating Gigi's mother Yolanda Hadid, the source continued: 'She's seen her mom go through two messy divorces, so Gigi wants to make 100 per cent sure Zayn's the one before she makes a lifetime commitment.'
Zayn has accompanied his girlfriend of two years to the city of love as she faces a hectic schedule of Paris Fashion Week catwalk shows.
On Thursday she put on a futuristic display at the Balmain runway show, going bra-less in a bondage-inspired caged sheer top, while her proud boyfriend watched from the front row.
Futuristic: The blonde beauty looked unrecognisable in the Balmain show on Thursday, wearing a bondage-style caged top and a gold lip ring
The versatile model stunned in the avant-garde show with her blonde locks styled into a tight cornrows and her pillowy lips embellished with a gold lip ring.
She sported dramatic eye makeup at the show with streaks of eyeliner transforming the Tommy Hilfiger model into a Gothic vision.
Boyfriend Zayn watched as his supermodel girlfriend stormed the catwalk, donning a camouflage and black sheepskin jacket and letting his silky black locks fall across one eye.
Supportive boyfriend: Zayn watched from the front row as Gigi strutted her stuff on the runway
Catwalk superstar: Gigi stormed the Balmain catwalk in brown-and-gold fringed ensemble
Gigi's career soared this week as she was unveiled as the first model to grace the cover of brand new magazine Vogue Arabia.
She looked stunning in the image, which she shared on Instagram, wearing a bejewelled hijab.
However the model, who is half-Palestinian and whose father is Muslim, was the focus of harsh criticism on social media as commentators accused her of 'cultural appropriation' and complained that the hijab was a religious garment which should not be used as a 'fashion statement'.
Vogue cover girl: Gigi appeared on the first cover of Vogue Arabia, looking sultry in a bejewelled hijab. But she faced a backlash when commentators accused her of 'cultural appropriation' and complained that the hijab was a religious garment not a fashion accessory
The couple's loved-up display comes amid news that Zayn has provided the financial backing so his mum, Trisha, 47, can open a beauty salon in Bradford.
The millionaire pop star famously bought Trisha a house - worth around 280,000 - when he first found fame in One Direction.
But now he has gone one further and helped his mother set up her own business.
Trisha announced the news in a sweet snap on Instagram.
Mummy's Boy: Zayn's mum Trisha revealed on Instagram that she is opening a salon in Bradford - and sources say that Zayn's pop star millions are behind the new venture
She wrote that the salon would offer customers spray tans, acrylic nails, manicures and pedicures among other treatments.
An insider told The Sun that Zayn thought the salon made good business sense.
'Zayn is putting up the cash because he reckons it is a sound business idea,' a source told the publication.
'The family hope that this will be the first of many in the area and hopefully across the country.
'Zayn may be an international superstar, but he is incredibly close to his family and will do anything he can to help them.'
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She's the older sister of Cheyenne, known for her modelling and acting talents.
And Tahyna Tozzi has come to headlines again, this time on the property front.
The 30-year-old mother-of-one has purchased a $1.5 million Hampton's style home in Caringbah South, in Sydney's Sutherland Shire, with former professional dancer husband, Tristan MacManus, 34.
Model grounds! Tahyna Tozzi, 30, purchased a $1.5 million Hampton's style home in Sydney's Sutherland Shire with husband Tristan MacManus, 34, that features three bedrooms, a swimming pool and cabana
Tahyna's new renovated abode features three spacious bedrooms.
A moderate-sized kitchen takes on a predominately white aesthetic with marble bench-tops, tiling and carpentry.
Made for entertaining, the home features a large swimming pool, cabana and deck area.
Family nest: The renovated three-bedroom abode features lush greenery
Modern: A moderate-sized kitchen takes on a predominately white aesthetic with marble bench-tops, tiling and carpentry
In style: A living area features wooden floorboards and a white and taupe colour palette, following on from the kitchen
Currently at one-storey, an additional level would allow for picturesque views over Port Hacking.
Tahyna and Tristan returned from his native Ireland in February last year.
Two months later they welcomed their first child, daughter Echo Isolde.
Clean: A spacious bedroom continues with the white aesthetic with views onto the open road
Functional: Another room in the abode is perfect for an office or bedroom with a built-in wardrobe and ample space for a desk
Social: The entertaining area features a spacious desk, looking out onto a swimming pool
Tahyna announced the unusual baby name via Instagram, writing: 'Our baby girl Echo Isolde MacManus was born 05/04/2016 healthy and happy. Tristan & I are so thankful for everyone's support Xx,' alongside a snap of their baby's name, handwritten on a piece of paper.
The personality was understood to have given birth in Australia after being based in her hubby's native Ireland.
Meanwhile, younger sister Cheyenne was the first to congratulate Tahyna, posting an intimate snap of Tristan and Tahyna in hospital.
Picture-perfect: Lush greenery is perfect for children or guests to lounge on
Inspiration: The renovated abode has taken on a very Hampton's-style aesthetic
Bundle of joy: Tahyna welcomed her first child, a daughter Echo Isolde, with husband Tristan in April last year
Family: Tahyna is pictured here with mother Yvonne, who counts Lara Worthington's mother Sharon Bingle as a close friend
'Welcome baby girl Echo Isolde MacManus @tahynavalentina,' she wrote in a caption alongside it.
Tahyna and Tristan dated for five years, after having been set up by mutual friends at a Thai restaurant in Los Angeles in 2011.
They tied the knot in Sydney's Cronulla in 2014.
Sibling: Tahyna is the older sister of model and television personality Cheyenne Tozzi, 27
History: Tahyna met Tristan, a former professional dancer in 2011 at a Thai restaurant in Los Angeles, after being set up by mutual friends
Model Tahyna, has also had a brief stint in acting.
She featured as Perri Lawe in ABC drama Blue Water High in 2005, before taking on her first feature film Beautiful, in 2009.
Tahyna later had a small role in Hugh Jackman's X-Men Origins: Wolverine.
Husband Tristan is a former professional dancer, known for starring in Strictly Come Dancing.
The high-profile pair count Lara and Sam Worthington as friends.
Adele will perform two stadium-size concerts in Brisbane on March 4 and 5.
And to mark her first Australian tour, Brisbane comedian Mel Buttle took it upon herself to give the world-famous superstar some local tips.
The 35-year-old funnywoman took to Twitter on Friday with 15 hilarious nuggets of advice.
'Park at mine and uber in': Comedian Mel Buttle gives Adele hilarious advice to survive Brisbane like a local via Twitter tips on Friday
Within 140 characters or less, Mel wrote to Adele with quirky tales of parking, over-rated attractions, liquor stores and money-saving alternatives.
As it's been reported fans are expected to endure a three hour commute to The Gabba stadium for Adele's concert, the TV hosts first tweet appeared to poke fun of the unfortunate situation.
She wrote: 'Adele, you'll never get a park near the Gabba, park at mine and uber in, it be a nightmare otherwise.'
'Also, Adele, eat before, I know you'll be nervous, but everything is shut at 9pm, so grab a bite prior or you'll starve,' she continued her description of the Wooloongabba area.
'When you slay twitter over lunch': TV host and comic Mel Buttle appeared chuffed by fans reactions to her 15 tweets aimed at Adele
'It be a nightmare otherwise': As it's been reported fans are expected to endure a three hour commute to The Gabba stadium for Adele's concert and have been advised to leave the car at home, the TV hosts first tweet appeared to poke fun of the unfortunate situation
'Everything is shut at 9pm': Mel continued her description of the Wooloongabba area's dining scene
Mel didn't stop there though, as she continued by giving the English star money-saving advice, insisted to 'avoid Coles and Woolies' as they were 'too exey' and to avoid the Go Between Bridge and Clem 7 tunnel as they were 'a rip off.'
Helping her beat potentially hunger pains, she suggested a good local fruit shop for '49c a kilo' bananas, 'two for $10 deal on Rooster Rolls' and Red Rooster and how to get a cheaper chook at Coles for dinner.
One of the comic's highest liked posts, made reference to the rainy weather: 'Also Adele, if you want to write off a car that you're sick of, park it at Toombul outside, that car park always floods when it rains.'
'If you want to write off your car': One of the comic's highest liked posts, made reference to the rainy weather and how to ensure it gets totalled
Frugal superstar tips: Helping her beat potentially hunger pains, she suggested a good local fruit shop for '49c a kilo' bananas, 'two for $10 deal on Rooster Rolls' and Red Rooster and how to get a cheaper chook at Coles for dinner
'The sharks are actually tiny': Mel also thought it fitting to give Adele, who is in the country with her four-year-old son Angelo, advice to give Underwater World a miss, while suggesting some better places to visit, like Dan Murphy's bottle shop
Mel also thought it fitting to give Adele, who is in the country with her four-year-old son Angelo, some advice on attractions to avoid.
'Also, Adele, don't go to Underwater World, big queues, you can't get close to the glass for a good look, and the sharks are actually tiny,' she wrote.
Mel, clearly chuffed by the reaction of fans, took to Instagram later to announce: 'When you slay twitter over lunch.'
Lengthy commutes: Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor and transport committee chairman Adrian Schrinner advised Brisbane fans to leave 'between two or three hours early' to get to the event by its 7.30pm start time at Wooloongabba's stadium, The Gabba (pictured)
Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor and transport committee chairman Adrian Schrinner warned there would be major delays over the March weekend gigs due to limited transport resources in Brisbane.
He advised 'leaving between two or three hours early' to get to the event by its 7.30pm start time.
Adele kicked off her Aussie tour at Domain Stadium in Perth on February 28 and will perform shows in Brisbane on March 4 and 5, and Sydney on March 10 and 11.
Touring: Adele kicked off her Aussie tour in Perth on February 28 and will perform shows in Brisbane on March 4 and 5, and Sydney on March 10 and 11 (Pictured in Perth's Domain Stadium)
She wrapped up shooting the sixth season of Homeland earlier this week.
And on Friday, Claire Danes wore an off-duty look, shielding herself from the chilly New York City weather while out and about in her West Village neighborhood.
Spotted in front of The Greenwich Hotel, the 37-year-old four-time Golden Globe winner was inconspicuous, foregoing makeup and hiding in a puffer coat that reached well past her knees.
Covering up: Friday, Claire Danes, 37, wore an off-duty look, shielding herself from the chilly New York City weather while out and about in her West Village neighborhood
The talented actress looked furtive as she hurriedly made her way towards Robert De Niro's luxurious 5-star hotel.
Claire's navy blue puffer jacket was zipped half-way down and all the way up to the Little Women star's chin to protect her from the below 40F weather.
A fur-trimmed hood nearly concealed the mother-of-one's straight blonde tresses, and she wore blue skinny jeans with black Oxford shoes and red socks.
Prepared: Claire's navy blue puffer jacket was zipped half-way down and all the way up to the Little Women star's chin to protect her from the below 40F weather
For ease and comfort, Danes carried a black backpack and headphones peeked out from the pocket of her jacket, reaching around her neck and into her ears.
According to the Instagram account of Homeland newcomer James Mount - who plays Agent Thoms - the crew wrapped up filming the sixth season, which is currently airing, only earlier this week.
Danes leads the cast as bipolar ex-CIA Counterterrorism officer Carrie Mathison, a role which garnered the actress two Emmy Awards and two Golden Globes.
Homeland season six premiered on Showtime mid-January. Six episodes in with six to go, the show airs Sundays at 9 PM ET.
On Thursday they kissed in front of the cameras at the Hollywood premiere of Disney's Beauty And The Beast at the historic El Capitan Theatre.
On Friday, power couple Chrissy Teigen and John Legend were much more casually dressed as they held hands while walking across the concourse after jetting into Miami International Airport.
The 31-year-old model opted for a sheer, ankle-length white cardigan with frills around the neckline that she wore over a deep V-neck blouse plus distressed jeans, cropped at the ankle, and high-heeled white sandals.
Walking in lock step: Power couple Chrissy Teigen and John Legend held hands as they walked across the concourse after jetting into Miami International Airport on Friday
The co-host of Spike TV's Lip Sync Battle smoothed her brunette tresses into a chic updo and held hands with her 38-year-old husband as they made their way out of the airport.
John was dressed in black from head to toe in a jacket over a sweater and pants plus sneakers.
The All Of Me hitmaker and his lovely wife both hid their eyes behind pairs of celebrity must-have sunglasses.
Fashionista in flight: The 31-year-old model wore a sheer ankle-length white cardigan over a deep V-neck blouse plus distressed jeans, cropped at the ankle, and high-heeled white sandals
Monochrome crooner: John, 38, was dressed in black from head to toe in a jacket over a sweater and pants plus sneakers
Chrissy and John put on a similar PDA at the Beauty And The Beast premiere the previous day.
She was there to support the crooner who lends his voice to the remake of the titular song opposite Ariana Grande.
In keeping with the animated film's fairy tale story, Chrissy decided to go with the theme of the Gothic castle by donning a dark maroon tasseled dress by Raisa & Vanessa along with black lipstick.
Different view: The All Of Me hitmaker and his lovely wife both hid their eyes behind pairs of celebrity must-have sunglasses
Hair-raising: The Swimsuit Illustrated model styled her dark blonde hair into an updo
John suited up in a smart two piece with a crisp white shirt and a black bow tie.
The crooner snuggled up to his wife, kissing her on the cheek as they posed on the red carpet.
The couple share 10-month-old daughter Luna but there was no sign of her on Friday.
He's the former rock star who appears to have fallen on hard times in recent years.
And now the story behind Daniel Johns' epic party session that left him a little worse for wear on Sydney's streets have been revealed.
Friends of the 37-year-old former Silverchair frontman have told how before he was pictured staggering through the exclusive suburb of Double Bay last December, he'd been partying for days, the Daily Telegraph reports.
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Cutting loose: The story behind THAT Daniel Johns' party has been revealed by a friend. The Silverchair rocker was pictured staggering through an exclusive Sydney suburb last December
Johns was shirtless with makeup smeared all across his face when the infamous pics were taken of him walking alongside fellow rocker Joshua Mullane.
And now another of the Straight Line hitmaker's mates, who too was part of the wild celebrations that week, has given his account of proceedings.
'He had already been going for a little while when he arrived. He showed up really loose. I wasnt expecting to see him,' Anthony Lister claimed.
Big week? 'He had already been going for a little while when he arrived,' Anthony Lister, who partied with Johns that week, said
'I thought I should have ran with the I am haggard and Ive been up for four days look too.'
Lister, a professional street artist, was the host for one of the parties Johns attended.
However he admitted to not being able to keep up with the ARIA winner or Mullane, as the pair left his place and kicked on in Darlinghurst before the photos were taken.
'I was impressed with his whole rock n roll feel. He is living the part of an old-school rocker,' Lister claimed.
party pals: The Straight Lines hitmaker was seen stumbling through the streets alongside fellow rocker Joshua Mullane (right)
Fallen rocker: Friends of Johns have claimed he had been partying for days on end before the now infamous photos were taken
Rock 'n' roll: Johns was shirtless with makeup smeared all across his face when the infamous pics were taken
The revelations come little more than a month on from Johns' latest loose outing.
In late January, the musician promised to delete his social media accounts because of 'cruel people' and also shared selfies of himself pulling funny faces.
'A lot of you have been mean lately. To that I can only say I love you,' he captioned his first image.
'I'm gonna delete this account soon but thanks so much to the nice people!' he said alongside his second.
Disheveled: In January, less than a month on from his Double Bay outing, the ARIA winner took to social media to share a number of loose photos including this one of him 'flipping the bird'
'Really, really thanks ! And to the cruel people... it's been an absolute pressure (sic).'
Appearing to really be struggling with his time away from the limelight, a week prior Johns was pictured flipping the bird to the camera with both hands.
In a black and white image, he looked disheveled as he hunched over on a bench in a lopsided velvet top hat.
Quitting: 'I'm gonna delete this account soon but thanks so much to the nice people!' Johns threatened in one Instagram photo from January
The indie artist displayed his arm and neck tattoos in a black singlet partnered with oversized drop-crotch trousers.
Johns led his rock band Silverchair for two decades between 1992 and 2011.
He has won 21 ARIA awards during his time in the band and as a single artist.
A new expresso machine, gifted to the White House Press Corps by actor Tom Hanks, is set up in the kitchen area of the Brady Briefing Room of the White House on March 2, 2017
US actor Tom Hanks gave White House journalists a new espresso machine Thursday, calling their caffeine-addled plight to cover the news a fight for "truth, justice, and the American way."
The actor's gift comes amid President Donald Trump's feud with the US media, which he frequently blasts with insults and accuses of bias.
Hanks has previously brought the White House press corps espresso machines -- once under George W. Bush when the actor learned the journalists had no such apparatus and again in 2010 under Barack Obama when he learned the first had worn out.
But this time, he left the press corps with a special note of encouragement including an illustration at the top of American troops soldiering on.
"To the White House Press Corps," the note said. "Keep up the good fight for truth, justice, and the American way. Especially for the truth part."
Since his campaign days, Trump has repeatedly slammed the media, calling it "dishonest" and accusing major news outlets of fabricating sources and stories, while branding journalists "the enemy of the people."
Trump announced Saturday he will skip this year's annual White House Correspondents Association Dinner, a longstanding tradition that began in 1921 in which journalists invite the US president for a light-hearted roast.
The last time a president missed the event was in 1981, when Ronald Reagan was recovering after being shot in an assassination attempt. Reagan, however, phoned in with friendly remarks.
Richard Nixon, who despised the media, skipped the event in 1972.
North Korean national Ri Jong Chol (L) is escorted by police officers as he leaves the Sepang police headquaters, on March 3, 2017
Malaysia issued an arrest warrant for a North Korean airline employee Friday over the assassination of the half-brother of Pyongyang's leader, after frustrated police had to release their only other suspect from the isolated nation.
Ri Jong-Chol is among eight North Koreans suspected of involvement in the dramatic killing of Kim Jong-Nam, the half-brother of the reclusive nation's leader, who was poisoned with a banned nerve agent at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Malaysia's attorney general had announced there was insufficient evidence to charge 47-year-old Ri.
The North Korean was deported Friday night, a government official, who asked not to be named, confirmed to AFP.
"He will be escorted by two North Korean officials to Beijing and from Beijing to Pyongyang," deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi told reporters earlier. "We have also blacklisted him and he cannot enter this country again."
"The police probe showed he was not working as stated in his documents but was involved in illicit activities detrimental to our security."
Earlier, as he was led out of a police station outside the capital under tight security and handed over to immigration authorities, police chief Khalid Abu Bakar said he regretted the release.
Assassination of Kim Jong-Nam: political fallout
"We believe that Ri Jong Chol played a part in Kim Chol's murder but unfortunately we lack evidence to charge him," he told AFP, using the name given in the passport carried by Kim Jong-Nam.
"We are frustrated because of a lack of evidence," he said via text message from Saudi Arabia where he is on a religious pilgrimage.
However, he denied political or diplomatic pressure had been a factor in the release, saying it was purely an investigative issue.
Ri's release came two days after two women -- one Vietnamese and one Indonesian -- were charged with murdering Kim.
Seven other North Koreans are wanted in connection with the killing.
- Arrest warrants -
On Friday police issued an arrest warrant for a North Korean airline employee, Kim Uk Il, 37, in connection with the murder.
They also requested that Hyon Kwang Song, second secretary at the North Korean embassy, assist the probe.
Both are believed to be in Malaysia. Four others are thought to have fled to Pyongyang on the day of the murder.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un (right) ordered the killing of his half-brother Kim Jong-Nam, according to South Korea
Ri was arrested days after Kim suffered an agonising death when he was attacked as he waited to board a flight to Macau.
CCTV footage shows two women approaching the heavyset 45-year-old and apparently smearing his face with a cloth.
Police say he suffered a seizure and died less than 20 minutes later. Swabs of the dead man's face revealed traces of VX, a synthetic chemical so deadly that it is classed as a weapon of mass destruction.
Indonesian Siti Aisyah, 25, and Doan Thi Huong, 28, from Vietnam, face the death penalty if found guilty. Both women say they thought they were merely taking part in a prank video.
South Korea has pointed the finger of blame at North Korea, citing what they say was a standing order from leader Kim Jong-Un to kill his exiled half-brother who may have been seen as a potential rival.
North Korea, which has not acknowledged the dead man's identity, has vehemently protested the investigation, saying Malaysia is in cahoots with its enemies.
In response, Malaysia has cancelled a visa-free travel deal with North Korea -- a key conduit to the outside world -- and recalled its envoy to Pyongyang.
- 'The facts remain' -
Former North Korean deputy ambassador to the UN, Ri Tong Il, addresses journalists outside the N. Korean embassy in Kuala Lumpur, on March 2, 2017
On Thursday a senior North Korean diplomat leading a delegation to Kuala Lumpur reiterated Pyongyangs assertion that Kim had died of a heart attack, dismissing the use of a nerve agent, and urged Malaysia to release his body.
Police chief Khalid quashed the claims.
"Our investigations supported by expert reports confirmed that Kim was murdered. North Korea can say what they like but the facts remain," he told national news agency Bernama.
Malaysia on Friday also stepped up its criticism of the use of the banned nerve agent, condemning "the use of such a chemical weapon by anyone, anywhere and under any circumstances".
"Its use at a public place could have endangered the general public," the foreign ministry said, adding that the Hague-based Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons was helping it investigate.
Nepalese women Pabitra Giri (L) and Yum Kumari Giri sit by a fire as they live in a Chhaupadi hut during their menstruation period, in Surkhet District, some 520 km west of Kathmandu
The small thatched hut in western Nepal has no walls to keep out the cold. Inside is a raised platform where Pabitra Giri sleeps during her period, banished from her home by a centuries-old Hindu ritual.
Below the hut, known as a chhau goth, Giri lights a small fire to keep her warm. The smoke rises up to the small cramped area where she sleeps, making her eyes water.
"We think that if we don't follow chhaupadi bad things will happen and if we do, it (the gods) will favour us. I feel it does good, so I follow it during my periods," Giri, 23, explained.
"Now I am used to it. I used to be afraid in the beginning because I was away from my family during dark nights and the place is like this," Giri said gesturing around her.
The practice is linked to Hinduism and considers women untouchable when they menstruate.
They are banished from the home -- barred from touching food, religious icons, cattle and men -- and forced into a monthly exile sleeping in basic huts.
Nepalese woman Pabitra Giri checks her mobile phone inside a Chhaupadi hut during her menstruation period, in Surkhet District, some 520 km west of Kathmandu
In some areas, women are also made to spend up to a month in the chhau goth after they have given birth.
Two women recently died while following chhaupadi -- one of smoke inhalation after she lit a fire for warmth, while the other death is unexplained. These incidents have spurred fresh impetus to end the practice.
Chhaupadi was banned a decade ago, but new legislation currently before parliament will criminalise the practice, making it an imprisonable offence to force women to follow the ritual.
"Women were accepting chhaupadi as tradition. After defining chhaupadi an offence by law the tradition will be discouraged saving rights and lives of many women," Krishna Bhakta Pokhrel, a lawmaker pushing the bill, told AFP.
- For the gods -
Nepalese women Pabitra Giri (L) and Yum Kumari Giri prepare to have dinner outside their house during their menstruation period, in Surkhet District, some 520 km west of Kathmandu
But previous attempts to stop chhaupadi have failed to address the deep superstitious beliefs that underpin it.
Even in the capital Kathmandu, three in four homes practise some form of restriction on women during their periods, usually banning them from the kitchen and prayer room, said Pema Lhaki, a women's right activist who has campaigned for years to end chhaupadi.
Most attempts to end the ritual have focused on destroying the chhau goths but that hasn't stopped women being banned from their homes -- instead, in some areas, it has seen women forced to sleep in even more rudimentary huts or even outside, Lhaki said.
"Until we make the woman herself make the decision, the destruction of menstrual huts is more for external purposes. The menstrual huts should remain. Success is when they remain but they don't go into them," she said, accusing the government of encouraging the chhau goth to be destroyed to meet quotas set by international donors.
In a village a few miles from where Giri lives, Khagisara Regmi is considering building a chhau goth.
Nepalese shaman Keshar Giri (C) talks to AFP in Surkhet District, some 520 km west of Kathmandu
After her husband died eight years ago, the 40-year-old found it too difficult to follow chhaupadi -- which would bar her from cooking or touching her son when she was menstruating -- while bringing up her four young children.
But a few years ago, her only son started having fits. When a nearby hospital failed to cure them, Regmi turned to the local shaman who told her that her son's seizures where because she hadn't followed the ancient ritual.
"Because I didn't observe purity the gods were displeased. It wasn't favourable for my son," she said.
It is often the village shamans -- who fill a void left by woefully poor medical services in rural Nepal -- and the elderly who are the guardians of the ritual.
Sabitra Giri, 70, defiantly told AFP that the Maoists during Nepal's brutal civil war tried to end chhaupadi as part of an anti-religion drive -- but failed.
"You can cut me but while I'm alive this practice will continue," she said.
At a house on the edge of the village, shaman Keshar Giri, clad head to toe in white, explained that many illnesses were caused by women not following chhaupadi.
He often counselled women to follow the ritual if they came to him with problems, he said.
"It is not about individuals but the gods that we worship who ask women to not be near for those few days," he said.
"Its for the sake of the gods."
Balinese Hindu local security 'Pecalang' stand guard during a rehearsal ahead of the arrival of Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz, in Nusa Dua, on March 3, 2017
Luxury hotels have been booked out and security forces deployed across Bali as the resort island geared up Friday for the arrival of Saudi King Salman on the latest leg of his extravagant Indonesian tour.
Hundreds of top-end cars and SUVs are ready to transport the king, who arrives Saturday, and his vast entourage, while 396 tons of equipment have been flown in to the popular holiday island for the visit.
Salman is leading a 1,000-strong delegation, including princes and ministers, on the first visit by a Saudi Arabian monarch to the world's most populous Muslim-majority country in almost half a century.
He arrived in Jakarta Wednesday for a state visit to an elaborate welcome. After disembarking from his plane on a escalator, he was whisked in a convoy past cheering crowds and greeted at a presidential palace by a 21-gun salute and marching band.
He will spend a week on Bali, a Hindu-majority island famed for its palm-fringed beaches. Police said five luxury hotels have been booked around the upmarket Nusa Dua resort area for the monarch and his party.
Local media reported that among the king's baggage were his own luxury sofa and an 80-inch (200-centimetre) television to ensure he feels at home in his hotel.
Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdul Aziz (L) applauds next to parliament speaker Setyo Novanto, at the parliament in Jakarta, on March 2, 2017
About 2,500 police and military personnel, including snipers and bomb disposal experts, are being deployed around the island. The king's party will use 360 vehicles, including Mercedes, SUVs and buses, during the visit, according to local tourism official I Ketut Ardana.
Intelligence agency officials have checked over several tourist sites that Salman and his entourage might like to visit, including the sacred temple of Uluwatu and the island's cultural centre, Ubud.
"It is our obligation to ensure the safety of our guests and make them feel comfortable here," Bali senior police official Made Sudana told AFP.
Indonesia is one of the highlights on the king's three-week Asian tour, which is seeking investment opportunities as the country aims to diversify its economy away from oil.
He began the tour in Malaysia earlier this week and is also scheduled to visit Japan, China and the Maldives.
Bike rental costs can be as low as 1 yuan (15 US cents) per hour and the bikes can be left anywhere for the next user to come along
Shanghai has impounded thousands of brightly coloured bikes placed on city streets by cycle-sharing companies, in the latest sign of impatience with an explosion of the haphazardly-parked two-wheelers.
The bike-sharing sector has become one of the fastest-growing industries in the country, with users typically renting the bicycles for short periods by first unlocking them through the use of mobile phone apps.
Costs can be as low as 1 yuan (15 US cents) per hour and the bikes can be left anywhere for the next user to come along.
While hailed as a way to fight road traffic and pollution, the phenomenon has become viewed as a nuisance in some communities, with bikes often parked outside of designated parking areas, left in the middle of sidewalks or even on freeways.
Row upon row of mostly orange and silver bikes from the company Mobike sat collecting dust in a massive parking lot in Shanghai's Huangpu district near the city's famed riverfront Bund area.
They had been rounded up by a private firm hired by the government to oversee bicycle parking.
The bikes began to accumulate over the past month, said a woman whose balcony overlooks the crowded storage lot, declining to give her name.
Hundreds of thousands of bikes have been placed in dozens of Chinese cities
A Huangpu district government spokeswoman said shared bikes are not exempt from parking rules.
"Any vehicles that violate parking regulations will be impounded. It's the same for everyone," she said.
Mobike said in a statement that it was in touch with authorities and seeking to clarify what it called a "misunderstanding" by the company hired to round up the bikes.
The bike-share concept has attracted huge amounts of venture capital investment for key players Mobike and Ofo, who have funnelled that money into placing hundreds of thousands of bikes in dozens of Chinese cities.
China's state-run Xinhua news agency said Thursday that over the past two years more than 29 different providers have sprung up, placing more than three million bikes on streets around the country.
Impounded bicycles from the bike-sharing schemes Mobike and Ofo
A community in Beijing called Mentougou impounded hundreds of share bikes for similar reasons last month.
It later returned them to their providers.
More than 500 bicycles were dumped in huge piles on the streets of the southern city of Shenzhen in January, with images of the nearly three-metre-high jumbled stacks going viral.
Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi and German Chancellor Angela Merkel review a guard of honour in Tunis, on March 3, 2017
German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced a new agreement with Tunisia on tackling illegal migration during a visit Friday, following tensions over the case of the Tunisian suspect in the Berlin market attack.
Merkel, on a two-day trip to North Africa that also included a stop in Egypt, said Germany and Tunisia had agreed on faster repatriations for rejected asylum seekers and job training for Tunisians.
The German leader, who faces elections in September, is under pressure to reduce the number of asylum seekers coming to her country, which has taken in more than one million migrants since 2015.
Merkel, who also addressed Tunisia's parliament, has urged North African states to step up border controls and expedite procedures to repatriate migrants whose asylum applications are rejected.
Germany has said Tunisian bureaucratic delays meant it could not expel Anis Amri, the suspect in the truck rampage at a Berlin Christmas market that killed 12 people, even though his asylum application had been rejected six months earlier.
Merkel said the two countries had agreed that questions from Germany on the identities of Tunisian asylum seekers will be answered within 30 days.
"We will also help Tunisia to set up a registration system. Replacement passports are then meant to be issued within one week," she said at a joint news conference with President Beji Caid Essebsi.
Tens of thousands of asylum seekers use Tunisia and Libya as a launchpad to gain entry into Europe
This agreement "will satisfy Tunisia and will satisfy Germany", Essebsi said, adding that it concerned about 1,500 Tunisians whose residency requests have been turned down by Germany.
"Measures will be taken in the Tunisian consulates in Germany to help in their identification," he added.
Merkel's talks also covered ways to respond to years of instability exploited by people smugglers in neighbouring Libya, where winter departures on perilous boat crossings to Europe have spiked.
"We know the political situation in Libya is difficult," she said, welcoming Tunisia's efforts to help resolve the turmoil.
"No-one is more interested in political stability in Libya than its neighbours, but I'll say, because of the migration issue, it's also important for us Europeans."
- Aid funding pledge -
The migrants issue had already been contentious in Germany where sexual assaults by large groups of mostly North African men on New Year's Eve 2015-16 against women in Cologne provoked outrage.
Tunisian asylum seeker Anis Amri killed 12 people when he drove a hijacked truck through a Berlin Christmas market on December 19
Merkel's interior minister floated an idea for North African countries to build holding centres for returned migrants, but it was rejected by Merkel's centre-left coalition partners and rights groups.
The visit was also a chance for Merkel to pledge support for a country often hailed as a rare success story of the Arab Spring uprisings that shook the region and toppled autocrats including longtime Tunisian dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.
Since its 2011 revolution, Tunisia has passed a new constitution and held free parliamentary and presidential elections.
But the nation faces high unemployment, social tensions and the threat from jihadists who have killed dozens of soldiers and police as well as civilians including 59 foreign tourists.
Speaking in Tunis, Merkel announced 250 million euros ($264 million) in development aid.
"The funds are for rural development, small and medium enterprises, but mainly for youths... who especially need job training and employment opportunities," she said.
- 'Beacon of hope' -
She later told parliament that Tunisia is a "beacon of hope" for Europe, praising both the pro-democracy protests and the country's subsequent managing of the "rocky path" to democracy.
"The fact that you as a freely elected democratic parliament exist is a legacy of the great courage of the citizens of your country," Merkel said.
"Tunisia is going its way, and your country, as a young democracy, can bank on our full support and cooperation, politically, economically and socially."
Merkel, who left for home later Friday, had also planned a trip to Algeria last week but it was called off after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika fell ill.
Her North Africa visits were part of a larger diplomatic push which took her last year to Mali, Niger and Ethiopia.
Germany, which this year holds the G20 presidency, has also announced investment partnerships in Africa with the long-term goals of reducing poverty and deterring people from leaving.
Merkel was joined on her trip by a business delegation that could bring much-needed investments.
UN Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria Staffan de Mistura shows a picture during a press conference as part of the Intra-Syrian peace talks at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva, on March 3, 2017
The Syrian regime and opposition have agreed a "clear agenda" to seek to end the country's six-year-old war, the UN mediator said Friday at the end of sometimes fractious and slow-moving talks in Geneva.
Veteran envoy Staffan de Mistura said he hopes to invite both sides back to Geneva later this month for a new round of talks, which will include the issue of counter-terrorism at the request of Damascus.
"The train is ready, it is in the station, it is warming up the engine. Everything is ready, it just needs an accelerator," he said at the end of nine days of talks in the Swiss city.
"I believe that we have a clear agenda now in front of us," he told reporters, adding: "We did discuss procedure, .. but we also discussed substance."
- Seventh year of war -
More than 310,000 people have been killed in Syria's six-year civil war
The Geneva negotiations, the first since last April, were the latest effort to seek to end a conflict that began in March 2011 with protests against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Its seventh year begins on March 15.
Since then more than 310,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands have fled the country, fuelling instability in neighbouring countries and creating Europe's biggest migrant crisis since World War II.
The warring Syrian sides have been joined in Geneva by envoys of key parties including notably Russia, a major ally of Damascus.
But as in previous talks the focus was almost exclusively on the agenda.
Under UN Security Council Resolution 2254 they should be framed in three "baskets" or areas of discussion: governance, constitution and elections.
But Damascus pushed hard for counter-terrorism strategy to be added to the agenda, against fierce resistance from the opposition who said the Syrian regime was "stalling" the talks to avoid engaging with political transition.
- Astana, Geneva talks -
Syria's main opposition High Negotiations Committee (HNC) leader Nasr al-Hariri gives a press conference next to delegates during the Intra-Syrian peace talks at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva, on March 3, 2017
The Geneva peace talks are running in parallel with negotiations in Astana, Kazakhstan, which are focussed on maintaining a fragile ceasefire brokered in December.
A new Astana meeting is expected to take place before the next Geneva talks. "Astana and Geneva are complementing themselves, and reinforcing each other," said the UN envoy.
The main opposition High Negotiating Committee (HNC) said the latest Geneva talks were "more positive" than previous rounds.
"We are closing this round without (a) clear result... but I can say this time was more positive," HNC delegation chief Nasr al-Hariri told reporters.
"It was first time we discussed in an acceptable depth the issues of the future of Syria and political transition," he added after the talks, the fourth mediated by de Mistura.
Manbij Military Council forces, part of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), drive a humvee as they patrol the surrounding roads of in the northern Syrian town of Manbij on March 3, 2017
The antagonism has been clear in briefings after each session of talks with de Mistura, with the Syrian regime delegation chief Bashar al-Jaafari lashing out at "terrorists" in the HNC.
The HNC meanwhile lamented the lack of a genuine "partner for peace".
The talks had hardly begun last weekend when they were rocked by a suicide assault which killed dozens in Syria's third city Homs, triggerig a demand from al-Jaafari that terrorism be made a "priority" in Geneva.
- No direct talks yet -
Speaking at the end of the talks, the UN mediator conceded that for the moment face-to-face talks are unlikely. "We will pursue that when we feel the moment is right," he said.
But he held up a photograph of the opening ceremony of the talks last Thursday, when both sides gathered in the same room, albeit only to hear a welcome address by de Mistura.
"This picture is much more than iconic. It is highly symbolic. This was a very special moment," he said, adding: "A psychological barrier was broken".
And he added: "I know there are still people in Syria who still believe that there is a military option or a military solution.
"That is fantasy," he said, adding that only a "political solution that addresses the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people" would ultimately prevail.
The Belvedere Zoo in Tunis has been in need of maintenance for years and will increase security to stop stone-throwing visitors
A zoo in the Tunisian capital where visitors stoned a crocodile to death is to close temporarily, the local affairs and environment ministry said Friday.
It will close its gates from Monday for "emergency cleaning and maintenance works and to set up measures to manage visitors entering and exiting", the ministry said.
The public was up in arms this week after the municipality posted gory pictures of the reptile, which it said died of an internal haemorrhage after being stoned by visitors.
The images on Facebook showed the dead animal's head next to what appeared to be a bloodied paving slab and another large rock.
Environment Minister Riadh Mouakher has decided to "increase the number of guards and deploy three environmental police agents" at the zoo, the ministry said.
Tunisia aims to introduce the environmental police nationwide from April.
The capital's Belvedere Zoo has been in need of maintenance for years, and social media users have called on authorities to save its scrawny lions from cramped living conditions and stone-throwing visitors.
Pictures of the zoo filled with litter last year caused an outcry on social media.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel
Chancellor Angela Merkel is planning to hold her first meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington on March 14, a German government source told AFP Friday.
"Such a plan is in the works," the source said. Separately, government spokesman Steffen Seibert said that "we are not denying" reports of the planned meeting.
While former US president Barack Obama had labelled Merkel an "outstanding partner", there has been little known contact between the German leader and Trump since he took office.
Following Trump's shock election, Merkel reminded the billionaire of democratic values in their first phone conversation.
Any "close cooperation" must be on the basis of the "values of democracy, freedom, respect for the rule of law and human dignity, regardless of origin, skin colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation or political belief," she said then.
Merkel has also criticised Trump's decision seeking to ban citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States.
In turn, Trump has been a strident critic of Merkel's liberal refugee policy that has led more than a million asylum seekers to come to Germany since 2015.
Iraqi forces launched an operation to retake west Mosul, the largest population centre still held by the Islamic State group, on February 19
Seven people, among them five children, have been hospitalised over the past two days near Iraq's Mosul with injuries from chemical weapons, the Red Cross said on Friday.
The Islamic State jihadist group, which holds the majority of west Mosul, has periodically used rudimentary chemical weapons in the course of its more than two-year war with Iraqi forces.
"During the past two days, the hospital has admitted five children and two women showing clinical symptoms consistent with an exposure to a blistering chemical agent," Robert Mardini, the Red Cross Middle East director, said in a statement, referring to a facility near Mosul.
"The use of chemical weapons is absolutely prohibited under international humanitarian law. We are deeply alarmed by what our colleagues have seen, and we strongly condemn any use of chemical weapons, by any party, anywhere," Mardini said.
The statement did not specify whether the seven were injured in one or more attacks, how the chemical weapons were delivered, or who was responsible.
Several Iraqi military officers said they did not have information about recent chemical weapons attacks in the Mosul area.
IS overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, but Iraqi forces backed by US-led air strikes and other support have since regained much of the ground they lost to the jihadists.
IS has periodically used chemical weapons in the course of the conflict, but while this has garnered widespread attention, the jihadists' bullets and bombs are far deadlier weapons.
Iraqi forces launched an operation to retake west Mosul, the largest population centre still held by the jihadists, on February 19.
Vandalized stones are scattered at Stone Road or Waad Hakolel Cemetery in Rochester, New York on March 3, 2017
More than 100 bomb threats against US Jewish organizations and the desecration of three Jewish cemeteries are stoking fears of a rise of anti-Semitism, with some analysts blaming the politics of the Trump era.
On Friday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested former journalist Juan Thompson over a handful of the bomb threats, saying he made them to frame an ex-girlfriend in what they called a revenge case rather than a hate crime.
But that left unsolved more than 100 other threats made since the beginning of the year, some of which forced the evacuation of Jewish community centers (JCC) and schools.
The Anti-Defamation League has tabulated a total of 121 threats reported since January 1, labelling them an "epidemic."
Unlike Thompson's emailed threats, the majority were made by a person or people by telephone using voice-masking, automated calling and spoofing technologies to hide their identity and location.
All proved to be hoaxes and no one has been injured.
(L-R) Richard Markus, Sidney Markus (C)and Sandy Rosenthal look at a vandalized gravestone at Stone Road or Waad Hakolel Cemetery in Rochester, New York on March 3, 2017
But on February 16, police in South Carolina arrested a man allegedly tied to white supremacist groups for allegedly planning to attack a synagogue.
Law enforcement authorities are meanwhile investigating attacks on Jewish cemeteries in three cities which saw hundreds of gravestones tumbled and broken.
The latest took place in Rochester, New York late Wednesday.
"Just because there's been an arrest today doesn't mean that threats have disappear or will stop," Evan Bernstein, New York regional director for the Anti-Defamation League -- also a target of the bomb threats -- told a press conference Friday.
"There are many more JCC bomb threats that have not been solved... and we hope all law enforcement will continue to be diligent."
- 'Normalization' of anti-Semitism? -
The bomb threats to Jewish community centers
Mark Potok of the Southern Poverty Law Center in Montgomery, Alabama, which tracks racist and hate groups, said it is too early to say whether there is a real upsurge in anti-Semitic activity in the United States.
According to the ADL, there were more than 900 anti-Jewish incidents reported across the country in 2015.
But Potok says that the rise of Donald Trump to the White House has encouraged extreme right, neo-Nazi groups and boosted the confidence of activists with racist agendas.
A number of Trump advisors, particularly his chief strategist Steve Bannon, have had links to right-wing groups.
Bannon was previously head of Breitbart, which has been accused of being a focal point for the so-called "alt-right" -- an amorphous movement that comprises white nationalists, racists, anti-Semites, and anti-immigrant Americans who in large part fell in line behind the Trump campaign.
"Anti-Semitism is pervasive in the American radical right," Potok said.
"People feel the Trump campaign has brought their ideas into the mainstream.... This surge of anti-Semitic incidents reflects the normalization of these ideas."
He said the same force is behind the alleged torching of four Muslim mosques across the United States since the beginning of the year.
- Cyberstalking case -
People demonstrate at a Stand Against Hate rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on March 2, 2017
Investigations into the bomb threats have involved the Justice Department's anti-terror and hate crimes units. However, Thompson's case did not appear inspired by anti-Semitism or involve any racist group.
The 31-year-old African American, arrested Friday morning in St Louis, was blamed for eight emailed threats to Jewish organizations that were meant to implicate his former, white girlfriend.
The ADL said it had been monitoring Thompson's online activities, which it said had been strongly critical of white people.
He was charged with just one count of cyberstalking, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.
- Trump's role? -
President Donald Trump condemned the threats and vandalism, but earlier, Trump suggested the acts were aimed not at Jews but at making others look bad politically, according to Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro
The Jewish community has been nonplussed by the lack of a consistent and categoric denunciation of anti-Semitic acts from Trump.
Kenneth Stern, head of the Justus and Karin Rosenberg Foundation, which combats anti-Semitism, said the surge of anti-Semitic acts takes place in a "larger environment of xenophobia and racism engendered by Trump's political rise.
"The white supremacists felt empowered during and after the election," he said.
"What's different here is that, in the last few decades, you would have political leaders that reflexively, without prompting, react and condemn this."
On Tuesday, Trump did condemn the threats and vandalism in a speech before Congress.
Such acts "remind us that while we may be a nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all its forms," he said.
But earlier that day, according to Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, Trump told a group of state prosecutors that some of the threats could be "the reverse," implying they were not real anti-Jewish acts, but fake threats aimed at making others look bad politically.
Shapiro told NPR radio Thursday that such mixed messages from the president "stokes doubt" in the public about what is going on.
"I don't know what the president meant," he said. "But here's what I know, is that presidents must speak with moral clarity, not through mixed messages.... And this kind of wishy-washy speech leaves too much open to interpretation by the wrong people."
According to the UN, more than 440 people have died or gone missing in January and February while crossing to Europe from Libya in the depths of winter
The Libyan navy said it rescued 115 migrants Friday headed for Europe whose overloaded rubber boat was sinking off the coast near Tripoli, and that another 25 people were missing.
"We rescued 115 illegal immigrants, six of them women, all African nationals except for a Bangladeshi," navy spokesman General Ayoub Qassem told AFP.
Qassem said the survivors told of 140 passengers on board the boat that had run into problems on Thursday night after setting off from a beach east of the capital.
"Our search for the missing was unsuccessful," he said.
The navy and coastguard had responded to a distress call from the migrants aboard the boat that was "taking on water and about to sink", Qassem said.
Italy's coastguard said 970 migrants were rescued off the Libyan coast Thursday, as the numbers trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe continue to rise.
More than 13,400 people had already reached Italy so far this year -- an increase of 50 to 70 percent compared with 2016 and 2015.
According to the United Nations, more than 440 people have died or gone missing in January and February while crossing from Libya in the depths of winter.
Six years after the fall of dictator Moamer Kadhafi, Libya is still in chaos and the country has become a major launching pad for migrants seeking to enter Europe.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel was in neighbouring Tunisia on Friday where she announced a new agreement with the North African country on tackling illegal migration.
Her talks in Tunis also covered ways to respond to the instability exploited by people smugglers in Libya.
Migrant arrivals in Italy from Libya are up by between 57 and 81 percent this year in comparison to the opening two months of 2015 and 2016
The number of migrants rescued at sea this year in operations run by Italy's coastguard topped 15,000 Friday after another 900 people were saved, including eight-month-old Syrian twins and five other babies.
The latest operations confirm the pattern of a sharp upward spike in winter departures from troubled Libya.
Aid groups believe the exodus is being driven by worsening living conditions for migrants in the north African state and by fears the sea route to Europe could soon be closed to traffickers.
Migrant arrivals in Italy from its former colony are up by between 57 and 81 percent this year in comparison to the opening two months of 2015 and 2016, according to Italian interior ministry figures.
The coastguard said 10 rescue operations had taken place on Friday to help migrants aboard four large rubber dinghies and six smaller wooden vessels.
Norway's Siem Pilot, part of the European border agency Frontex's mission, and the Aquarius, operated by French NGO SOS Mediterranee and Doctors without Borders (MSF), carried out the rescue operations.
Amid relatively calm seas, there were no reports of fresh casualties. The United Nations refugee agency estimates 440 people have lost their lives trying to make the crossing from Libya to Italy since the start of 2017.
- Smoking humour -
More than half a million migrants have reached Italy from Libya since the current migrant crisis began to spiral out of control at the end of 2013.
The vast majority of them have been Africans but the latest batches have included scores of Syrians and Bangladeshis.
Migrants and refugees sit on a rubber boat during a rescue operation of the Topaz Responder, a rescue ship run by Maltese NGO "Moas" and the Italian Red Cross with the help of the Libyan coastguards, off the Libyan coast in November 2016
Crew on the Aquarius told AFP that the people it had picked up included 16 nationalities, including a Syrian family of six with the two twin babies.
They were among seven less than one-year-old infants rescued by the Aquarius, which also saved 12 toddlers aged one to four.
Tom Kington, a reporter for British newspaper The Times, was onboard the NGO-operated boat and recounted a lighter moment in the day's dramatic events.
"Syrian man with sense of humour picked up today on #Aquarius when told he couldn't smoke: 'I want to go back to Libya'" Kington posted on Twitter.
One of the Syrian survivors, who only wanted to be identified as M., told the crew that he had been living in Libya for three years before deciding he had to try and get to Europe, where he has a brother living in Germany.
"My family is still in the region of Aleppo. I called them yesterday before leaving," the 35-year-old English teacher said.
- 'Only the blacks' -
"In Libya, it is a catastrophic situation, the militias, no money, no government, wars between two cities... I think that by the end of this year, there will not be any Syrians left in Libya," he said.
"Myself, I was hoping to return to Syria, but I couldn't. I had no other choice."
A Bangladeshi, J., said conditions in Libya were worse than those he and his compatriots had fled.
"We all have left Bangladesh because of violence and poverty, the situation is very bad there," said the former Dhaka resident.
"But Libya is definitely worse. You can't go to the market without fear of being shot."
This photo taken on October 27, 2016 shows a rescuer standing up as migrants and refugees sit beside him on board of the Topaz Responder, a rescue ship run by Maltese NGO MOAS during its arrival at the Brindisi's harbour
A survivor from Cameroon said black Africans were even more vulnerable.
"The Libyans sell people. You don't even realise at first that it is a kidnapping, someone tells you to go there for work but then if you ask to be paid for your work they threaten to kill you.
"The situation is very bad. When they see a black, they will take him, call his family to send money. Only the blacks, not the other people. The only way out of it is to escape. You always have to hide when you're black in Libya."
Syria's main opposition High Negotiations Committee (HNC) leader Nasr al-Hariri gives a press conference next to delegates during the Intra-Syrian peace talks at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva, on March 3, 2017
More than a week of UN-sponsored peace talks ended in Geneva on Friday, the main opposition group said, calling the results "more positive" than previous rounds.
"We are closing this round without (a) clear result... but I can say this time was more positive," Nasr al-Hariri, delegation chief for the High Negotiating Committee (HNC), told reporters.
"It was first time we discussed in an acceptable depth the issues of the future of Syria and political transition," he added after the talks, the fourth mediated by UN envoy Staffan de Mistura.
As in previous rounds, Syrian regime and opposition negotiators did not meet face-to-face, with de Mistura shuttling between the delegations.
The talks were focussed on the agenda, rather than getting into the substance of negotiations, with three main "baskets" or areas of discussion: governance, the constitution and elections.
The Syrian regime has tried to get counter-terrorism onto the agenda, while the opposition wants more focus on political transition, specifically the fate of President Bashar al-Assad.
"The international silence must come to an end. The international community must speak out .. to put an end to the ongoing massacres that have been taking place in Syria for six years now," said al-Hariri.
Manbij Military Council forces, part of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), drive a humvee as they patrol the surrounding roads of in the northern Syrian town of Manbij on March 3, 2017
The Geneva negotiations, the first since last April, are aimed at ending a conflict that began in March 2011 with protests against Assad. Its seventh year begins on March 15.
Since then more than 310,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands have fled the country, fuelling instability in neighbouring countries and creating Europe's biggest migrant crisis since World War II.
The warring Syrian sides have been joined in Geneva by envoys of key parties including notably Russia, a major ally of Damascus.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, pictured in February 2017, will be visiting Kenya, a key country in the peace efforts taking place in Somalia and South Sudan
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will travel to Kenya on Sunday for talks with leaders on regional issues, his spokesman said Friday, as South Sudan and Somalia face famine.
Somalia is facing the threat of a famine while parts of northern South Sudan are already suffering from starvation.
Kenya is a key player in peace efforts in Somalia and has agreed to contribute troops to a new UN regional force for South Sudan.
Guterres, who took the UN helm in January, is pushing for a new strategy to end South Sudan's three-year war.
Manbij Military Council forces, part of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), prepare to head to the frontlines on the outskirts of the northern Syrian town of Manbij on March 3, 2017
US soldiers aboard Humvee armoured vehicles have been watching from a distance as two of their allies, Turkish-backed forces and a Kurd-Arab alliance, battle it out for control of Manbij in northern Syria.
An AFP correspondent on Friday saw the American soldiers on patrol north of the city of Manbij, just miles from the fierce clashes taking place further west.
Turkish forces and allied Syrian rebels have tried since Wednesday to capture Manbij, a former bastion of the Islamic State group, now under the control of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) alliance.
The SDF is dominated by fighters known as the Turkish People's Protection Units (YPG) which Ankara brands as "terrorists".
Turkey launched a military campaign inside Syria in August, backing opposition rebels who captured a number of towns from IS jihadists, including Al-Bab near the Turkish border.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan this week said the next target would be Manbij, in Aleppo province.
And on Thursday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu threatened to strike the YPG unless they pull out of the northern city.
On Friday, fighters from the SDF were on high alert in a farm near Arima, a village located half-way between Al-Bab and Manbij.
Heavy fighting and bombardment could be heard in the distance.
Serhaldan, a Kurdish commander who only gave his first name, told AFP that fighters from the Turkish-backed "Euphrates Shield" campaign "have attacked our forces but we repelled them".
He said the Turkish forces and their allies were using mortar rounds and heavy weapons as well as multiple rocket launchers.
The US-led "coalition is not helping us", he said, pointing towards the area of combat.
- 'High level coordination' -
Coalition aircraft have in the past carried out air strikes against IS and other jihadists in Syria, and provided cover for SDF forces in the past.
But on Friday, the AFP correspondent said no aircraft could be seen over the area.
Manbij Military Council forces, part of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), drive a humvee as they patrol the surrounding roads of in the northern Syrian town of Manbij on March 3, 2017
Last week, General Joseph Votel, who heads US Central Command (Centcom), made a secret visit to northern Syria where he met with SDF leaders.
According to a senior source in the SDF, "Votel confirmed the coalition's commitment to protecting Manbij from any attacks waged by Turkey or supported by it, as part of its previous commitment to protecting the area."
But Votel's spokesman, Colonel John Thomas, said that, while the general supported a peaceful transition of Manbij to a "thriving city", he did not say if the US would stop any Turkish move towards it.
The United States has special operations forces advising the SDF on the ground in Syria, but no combat units.
Sherfan Darwish, spokesman of the Manbij Military Council which is part of the SDF, tried to play down the absence of US forces in Manbij.
"The coalition is on patrol along the Sarjur river (north of Manbij) and there is coordination with the coalition at the highest level," Darwish told AFP.
"All our fighters in Manbij were trained by the Americans," he added.
The office of Dakar mayor Khalifa Sall, pictured here in March 2011, was unable to show receipts proving that $2.85 million of funds for rice and millet had been spent correctly
The mayor of Senegal's capital is facing a judicial probe into the disappearance of 1.83 billion CFA francs ($2.85 million) in city funds, the country's top prosecutor said Friday.
Khalifa Sall, a member of the coalition of ruling parties, has run Dakar since 2009 and has been seen as a probable contender in the 2019 presidential elections.
His office was unable to show receipts proving that funds earmarked for purchasing rice and millet for the city's population had been spent correctly, chief prosecutor Serigne Bassirou Gueye said.
"Next week I will refer to the judge of the court the case of Dakar city council regarding misappropriation of public funds, forgery and the use of forged documents," he said, before naming Sall specifically.
The money had been "taken from (city) coffers" over the last six years, Gueye said.
Almost half of the Senegalese population lives below the poverty line and many require assistance to feed their families.
Sall had repeatedly denied any malfeasance after a government monitor published a report raising a flag about missing funds.
Senegal is widely seen as one of Africa's most stable democracies.
But accusations of corruption have hit the brother of President Macky Sall -- who is unrelated to Khalifa Sall -- and plagued ministers in the administration of former president Abdoulaye Wade.
US-backed Manbij Military Council forces are seen March 3, 2017 as they patrol an area near Manbij, which has has become the center of geopolitical intrigue as multiple international powers with competing goals home in on the area
Russia and Syrian regime forces are moving "humanitarian" convoys carrying military equipment into the former Islamic State group's bastion of Manbij in northern Syria, the US Defense Department said Friday.
The move would likely make it more difficult for Turkish troops to strike Syrian Kurdish forces if they did not withdraw from Manbij.
"We have noticed and observed and are aware of the fact that these humanitarian convoys sponsored by the regime (of President Bashar al-Assad) and Russia have been moving into Manbij and that they have some armored equipment with them," Pentagon spokesman Navy Captain Jeff Davis said.
He said the military equipment included "up-armored vehicles" and another defense official said the materiel appeared to be for "force protection."
Manbij has become the center of geopolitical intrigue extending beyond the fight against the Islamic State, as multiple international powers with competing goals home in on the area.
The United States is backing a Kurdish-Arab alliance called the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to fight IS, and these fighters pushed the jihadists from Manbij last year.
Around the same time, Turkey crossed into northern Syria and joined the anti-IS fight, while also working to keep in check the Kurdish fighters, which it views as terrorists.
Turkey threatened Thursday to strike the Syrian Kurdish militia forces if they did not withdraw from Manbij.
Russian and Syrian regime troops entering Manbij might be beneficial for the United States, as it could stop Turkey and Kurdish forces -- both of whom are US allies -- from fighting there.
"All I would say is we just continue to want to see all parties on the ground continue to focus (on IS)," Davis said.
He added that Russia had informed the United States about the convoys ahead of time through a special hotline.
Uber is one of the largest investor-backed start-ups with a valuation estimated at $68 billion
Uber on Friday acknowledged the use of a secret software program to steer drivers away from trouble, including sting operations by local authorities to catch lawbreakers.
In the latest in a streak of damaging news for the ridesharing giant, Uber came forward about its "Greyball" software after a New York Times report which said the program aimed to deceive authorities in markets around the world.
According to an Uber statement, the tool was used in cities where it was not banned from operating, and the main intent was to protect drivers from disruption by competitors using the smartphone application to interfere instead of summon legitimate rides.
"This program denies ride requests to fraudulent users who are violating our terms of service," an Uber spokesperson said in an email reply to an AFP inquiry.
"Whether that's people aiming to physically harm drivers, competitors looking to disrupt our operations, or opponents who collude with officials on secret 'stings' meant to entrap drivers."
Uber said the program was used in locations where drivers feared for their safety, and "rarely" to avoid law enforcement.
The New York Times report, which said Greyball was used in several countries, cited interviews with current and former employees whose names were cloaked.
The report said Greyball was part of a broader program created to reveal people trying to us Uber in "violation of terms of service" and had the blessing of the company's legal team.
According to the report, the program raised ethical and potential concerns, and had been a closely guarded secret in Uber's toolbox as it expanded around the world, clashing with regulators and traditional taxi groups.
- 'Geofences' -
Data collected about agents of regulatory authorities was used by the software to "Greyball" them, or mark them as city officials, according to the Times.
Greyballed officials trying to use Uber would have rides cancelled and be shown fake versions of the app, complete with maps showing icons of ghost cars appearing to be on the move, the report said.
Tactics used included identifying locations of government offices and then making them off-limits with "geofences" erected in mapping software, according to the Times.
Ways of figuring out which users might be regulators or police included checking whether credit cards used for accounts were linked to governments or police credit unions, the report said.
"Uber clearly lost its moral compass if it ever had one," entrepreneur and journalist John Battelle said in a Twitter post referring to the Greyball news.
- Adding to Uber woes -
The "Greyball" disclosure comes as accusations of sexism, cutthroat management, and a toxic work environment have Uber trying to pull its image out of a skid as competition revs in the on-demand ride market.
Uber chief Travis Kalanick this week apologized, acknowledging that "I must fundamentally change as a leader and grow up," after a video showed him verbally abusing a driver for the service.
The incident, which circulated on social media, was another hit for the image of the global ridesharing giant, which faces accusations of sexual harassment and a lawsuit contending it misappropriated Google's self-driving car technology.
In the message to employees later, Kalanick wrote "To say that I am ashamed is an extreme understatement."
Uber is one of the largest investor-backed startups with a valuation estimated at $68 billion, and has operations in dozens of countries and hundreds of cities, even as it battles regulators and an established taxi industry.
Kalanick also faced criticism for agreeing to be part of a business advisory panel for President Donald Trump, but then quit the panel amid a campaign by Trump opponents to delete the Uber application.
Natalie Portman gave birth to a girl on March 3, 2017, six years after the birth of her first child Aleph
Hollywood star Natalie Portman has given birth to a girl, her representative said on Friday.
It is the second child for the 35-year-old Oscar-winning actress and her husband, French choreographer Benjamin Millepied, six years after the birth of their son Aleph.
"Natalie Portman and her husband Benjamin Millepied welcomed a baby girl, Amalia Millepied, on February 22. Mother and baby are happy and healthy," her representative said in a statement circulated to US media.
Portman attended the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards in January but skipped Sunday's Oscars, where she was nominated for best actress for her performance in "Jackie," about the late US First Lady Jackie Kennedy.
Critics raved about how accurately Portman managed to capture Kennedy's voice and personality.
Portman won a best actress Oscar for 2010's psychological ballet thriller "Black Swan," and it was on the set of the movie that she met Millepied.
A judge convicted a Chicago woman Thursday of first-degree murder for the horrific torture and strangulation death of her eight-year-old granddaughter.
Gizzell Ford, eight, was tied up and deprived of food and water for days while keeping track of the abuse in a journal later used as evidence.
Helen Ford, 55, could be sentenced to life in prison without parole for the 2013 slaying of the child. After the bench trial, Cook County Circuit Judge Evelyn Clay called the murder 'exceptionally brutal.'
Ford showed no emotion during the sentencing according to ABC7 News.
Helen Ford, 55, (right) was convicted of torturing and killing Gizzell Ford, 8, (left) in their Chicago home in 2013
'This murder was torture. That child suffered a slow and agonizing death,' Clay said as the victim's aunt sobbed in the packed courtroom. 'That little body looked like it had been pulverized from head to toe... Her treatment (of Gizzell) was evil.'
Eight months before Gizzell's death, a judge placed her in the custody of her father, Andre Ford, an unemployed felon who was living with his mother, Helen Ford, because of a chronic degenerative disease.
He also was charged in the girl's murder but died in Cook County Jail in August 2014 while awaiting trial.
The girl's father, Andre Ford, who died in jail in 2014, had been bedridden due to an autoimmune disease
Prosecutors in closing arguments cited the girl's journal entries before and after she moved in with the Fords.
'People say I'm smart, courageous and beautiful,' the honor roll student wrote when at the time she was a 'healthy, strong and vital' girl, prosecutors said. After she was taken to live with the Fords, her tone became more somber: 'I hate this life. I really think that I'm a jerk.'
On July 11, 2013, two days before her murder, Gizzy had written a journal entry stating: 'I hate this life because now I'm in super big trouble.'
Her body was discovered after a paramedic responded to a call of a girl who was having trouble breathing, the Chicago Tribune said.
When Ford blocked the woman from entering, the paramedic pushed through to find the Gizzell dead on the floor next to a bloody pillow.
Officials said the girl was found so badly beaten, most of the hair on the back of her head had been pulled out and medical examiners found maggots in a gaping head wound that had been left untreated.
Helen Ford (left) could be sentenced to life in prison without parole for the 2013 slaying of Gizzell Ford (right)
The apartment building where Gizzell lived with her grandmother and bedridden father
'She (Helen Ford) first broke her body, then she broke her spirit,' said Assistant State's Attorney Jennifer Coleman.
In asking for a conviction on involuntary manslaughter charges, Assistant Public Defender Jennifer Hodel said Helen Ford had 'too much on her plate' and only tied Gizzell up because she tried to attack her father and a cousin and tried to kill herself by jumping out the window.
'That was the way Helen was trying to keep order, if you will, in that home,' Hodel said.' Helen was overwhelmed. She was overworked. She was unable to overcome what was on her plate.'
Andre Ford had argued the girl's mother, Sandra Mercado, was homeless and failed to get their daughter to school regularly. Mercado was trying to regain custody of the girl at the time of her death. She has filed a lawsuit against the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, claiming a caseworker had visited the home where Gizzell was living and ignored obvious signs of abuse.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. (AP) - A mysterious odor at a Pennsylvania business park has sickened workers for the second time this week, sending several to the hospital with nausea and headaches.
About 400 people were made to leave businesses in Hanover Township just north of Bethlehem on Thursday morning.
Township Manager John Finnigan says five people went to the hospital with complaints of nausea and headaches.
By afternoon workers were being allowed back into the building.
The ordeal follows an odor complaint that caused evacuations and sent 31 people to hospitals for treatment of symptoms like vomiting and dizziness on Monday.
Finnigan says some complained of a gas smell when the heat turned on in the building Thursday.
Crews found no gas leak. Meters showed no signs of gases that could cause symptoms.
A rare clouded leopard's birth at the Nashville Zoo marks a milestone that could help rebuild the mysterious Asian cat's population, officials said Thursday.
The male cub is the first clouded leopard conceived through artificial insemination with frozen sperm, zoo officials said.
The birth is the result of a project between the Nashville Zoo and Smithsonian's National Zoo.
The father, named Hannibal, lives at the National Zoo in Washington. The mother, named Tula, was born and raised at the Nashville Zoo.
New arrival: A rare clouded leopard cub was born Wednesday at the Nashville Zoo. The cub is the first clouded leopard to be conceived through artificial insemination
Scientific breakthrough: The birth of the leopard cub is the result of a project between the Nashville Zoo and Smithsonian's National Zoo using artificial insemination
Hormones were used to induce ovulation in Tula, and semen was collected from Hannibal one week prior, Nashville Zoo officials said in a release.
'The team used a new technique depositing a very small volume of semen into the oviduct where the eggs normally rest after ovulation,' it said.
Dr. Heather Robertson, the director of veterinary services at the zoo, said in a statement: 'This is an enormous accomplishment for both Nashville Zoo and the team at the Smithsonian.
'It means we can collect and preserve semen from clouded leopard populations around the globe and improve pregnancy outcomes from AI procedures in this species.'
Clouded leopards are among the rarest of the world's cat species and have proved notoriously difficult to breed in captivity.
'It's been successful in other species,' Rick Schwartz, president of the Nashville Zoo, said of method of conception.
'But for some reason, clouded leopards just don't play by the same rules that other species do. It's probably the most difficult cat to breed in captivity.'
Pick a name: The cub, which was born Wednesday, has yet to be named. Nashville officials say the lead researchers at the National Zoo will name it
Hand-reared: The animal will be hand-raised by zookeepers in Nashville to ensure that it survives. It is seen in a photo taken by Amiee Stubbs
Zoo officials in Nashville and Washington hope the successful birth using the technique will increase the population of captive clouded leopards.
The cub, which was born Wednesday, has yet to be named.
Nashville officials say the lead researchers at the National Zoo will name it.
Dr. Adrienne Crosier with the Smithsonian Institute said in a statement: 'This cub, the first clouded leopard offspring produced with cryopreserved semen, is a symbol of how zoos and scientists can come together to make positive change for animals and preserving global biodiversity.
'Collaboration is the key to conservation of clouded leopards, along with so many other rare and endangered species we care for and study.'
The animal will be hand-raised by zookeepers in Nashville to ensure that it survives.
Nashville zoo officials said: 'This process also lowers animal stress for future hands-on care. The cub will stay at Nashville Zoo with plans to eventually introduce him to a potential mate.'
On Facebook, they wrote: 'because adult clouded leopards are known to be aggressive to potential mates to the point of severe injury or even death, clouded leopard cubs are hand raised to reduce parental predation as well as aggressiveness which allows us to pair breeding pairs at a young age.'
DALLAS (AP) - An immigration judge granted bond Thursday to a Salvadoran woman seeking asylum in the United States, allowing her to leave an immigration detention facility to seek treatment for a brain tumor.
Sara Beltran Hernandez's family in New York posted her $15,000 bond after the hearing and she was released late Thursday afternoon from the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, south of Fort Worth, an Amnesty International official said.
"She's going to get medical treatment hopefully in New York. She might get checked out here first to make sure she's OK to travel. Then she'll be treated there," Beltran Hernandez's lawyer, Fatma Marouf, said after the hearing in Dallas.
Dallas immigration attorney Fatma Marouf holds up a bond order in front of the federal building after leaving immigration court in Dallas, Thursday, March 2, 2017, from a federal immigration judge for Sara Beltran Hernandez, a Salvadoran woman seeking asylum. An immigration judge has granted bond to Hernandez so she can leave a detention facility to seek treatment for a brain tumor. (AP Photo/Claudia Lauer)
Amnesty officials said later Thursday that Beltran Hernandez was being seen by a doctor to make sure she would be OK to make the flight to New York.
Beltran Hernandez has been seeking asylum in the U.S. for almost a year and a half, saying she can't return to El Salvador because of the risk of domestic violence and threats of gang violence specific to her family. Beltran Hernandez has two small children in El Salvador who would be allowed to join her if she is granted asylum.
On Feb. 10, lawyers said Beltran Hernandez collapsed while talking to another detainee. Immigration agents took her to a Fort Worth-area hospital, where she was diagnosed with a brain tumor and remained for almost two weeks.
Her attorneys have said they had trouble visiting her and had difficulty reaching her by phone. Immigration and Custom Enforcement officials have said she was able to speak by phone with her family and her attorney of record while at the hospital.
Marouf said a specialist Monday confirmed that Beltran Hernandez has a large tumor on her pituitary gland. She said it was determined to not be cancerous and did not need to be immediately removed.
Marouf said the doctor recommended that the woman be monitored because the tumor had hemorrhaged, but was no longer bleeding, and that she return for scans every six weeks. She and the other attorneys said they were concerned that the necessary level of monitoring was not being done at the detention center's medical facility.
"I think she is just trying to absorb it all. I think she's going to be overwhelmingly happy to be with her family again. She really cries because she misses her family a lot," Marouf said.
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Follow Claudia Lauer on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ClaudiaLauer
GUATEMALA CITY (AP) - Five former Guatemalan army officers will face trial charged with the disappearance of a 14-year-old boy and the rape of his sister during the country's civil war.
Prosecutors say the 21-year-old woman was kidnapped in 1981 and taken to a military installation where she was tortured and sexually assaulted. She escaped eight days later.
The next day soldiers in civilian clothes went to her parents' home. She wasn't there so they took her brother, who was never heard from again.
A police officer frisks Benedicto Lucas Garcia, center, a former army commander before entering to a courtroom in Guatemala City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Lucas Garcia and four other high-ranking military officers will stand trial for the kidnapping of 14-year-old boy Marco Antonio Molina Theissen and the illegal detention, torture and rape of his sister in 1981. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
A judge on Thursday ordered the trial to determine the defendants' responsibility.
Retired officer Hugo Ramiro Zaldana Rojas is one of the accused. He denied the allegations, calling them "revenge from the (political) left."
The United Nations says about 250,000 people were killed or disappeared during Guatemala's 1960-1996 civil war.
Ana Lucrecia Molina Theissen wears a button with the image of his disappearance brother Marco Antonio before a hearing at a courtroom in Guatemala City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Five high-ranking military officers will stand trial for the kidnapping of Marco Antonio Molina and illegal detention, torture, and rape of his sister in 1981. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Emma Theissen, left, and Ana Lucrecia Molina Theissen, mother and sister of disappeared victim Marco Antonio Molina Theissen, wait for a hearing at a courtroom in Guatemala City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Five high-ranking military officers will stand trial for the kidnapping of then 14-year-old Marco Antonio Molina Theissen and the illegal detention, torture and rape of his sister in 1981. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Edilberto Letona Linares, a former army officer, is escorted by police at a courtroom in Guatemala City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Letona Linares and four other high-ranking military officers will stand trial for the kidnapping and of then 14-year-old Marco Antonio Molina Theissen and the illegal detention, torture and rape of his sister in 1981. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Benedicto Lucas Garcia, center, a former army commander, talks with a relative before entering to a courtroom in Guatemala City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Lucas Garcia and four other high-ranking military officers will stand trial for the kidnapping of 14-year-old boy Marco Antonio Molina Theissen and the illegal detention, torture and rape of his sister in 1981. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Emma Theissen, mother of the disappeared victim Marco Antonio Molina Theissen, center, accompanied by her daughter Ana Lucrecia, second from right, wait for a hearing at a courtroom in Guatemala City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Five high-ranking military officers will stand trial for the kidnapping and disappearance of 14-year-old boy Marco Antonio Molina Theissen and the illegal detention, torture and rape of his sister in 1981. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Francisco Gordillo Martinez, right, a former army officer, sits in a cell as he waits for a judge at a courtroom in Guatemala City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Gordillo Martinez and four other high-ranking military officers will stand trial for the kidnapping and disappearance of then 14-year-old boy Marco Antonio Molina Theissen and the illegal detention, torture and rape of his sister in 1981. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Former army officersBenedicto Lucas Garcia, left, and Edilberto Letona Linares, sit in a cell at a courtroom in Guatemala City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Lucas Garcia, Letona Linares and other three high-ranking military officers will stand trial for the kidnapping and disappearance of then 14-year-old boy Marco Antonio Molina Theissen and the illegal detention, torture and rape of his sister in 1981. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Trump administration's back-to-back controversies over its Russian ties now have at least one thing in common: Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Moscow's top diplomat in the U.S. has become the Kevin Bacon of the Trump White House's Russia imbroglio. A Washington fixture with a sprawling network, he has emerged as the central figure in the investigations into Trump advisers' connections with Russia. In a matter of weeks, contact with Kislyak led to the firing of a top adviser to the president and, on Thursday, prompted calls for the attorney general to resign.
Separately, a White House official confirmed Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and ousted national security adviser Michael Flynn met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in December for what the official called a brief courtesy meeting. Flynn was pushed out of the White House last month after officials said he misled Vice President Mike Pence about whether he and the ambassador had discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia in a phone call.
FILE- In this Sept. 6, 2013, file photo, Sergey Kislyak, Russia's ambassador to the U.S. speaks with reporters at the Center for the National Interest in Washington. Attorney General Jeff Sessions had two conversations with Kislyak during the presidential campaign season last year, contact likely to fuel calls for him to recuse himself from a Justice Department investigation into Russian interference in the election, the Justice Department said Wednesday, March 1, 2017. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen, File)
At issue Thursday were two meetings between Sessions and Kislyak - one in July and another in September, at the height of concern over Russia's involvement in hacking of Democratic officials' emails accounts. Intelligence officials have since concluded Moscow ordered the hacks to tilt the election toward Trump. In his confirmation hearing, the Alabama Republican denied having contact with any Russian officials, neglecting to mention the meetings with Kislyak, which were first reported by the Washington Post.
The Russian Embassy did not respond to a request for comment.
Although the White House dismissed the revelation as part of a political witch hunt, Sessions' former colleagues took the omission seriously. At the urging of some in his own party, Sessions recused himself from the Department of Justice's investigation. Still, Democrats called for him to step down.
Observers note Kislyak is a somewhat unlikely figure to cause controversy. Over the course of a long diplomatic career, he's led the life of a somewhat typical global envoy - making himself a reliable presence on the circuit of receptions, teas and forums that make up the calendar of any ambassador.
Kislyak, who was appointed to his post in 2008, is regularly spotted walking around town, heading to and from meetings. Early in his tenure, he often opened the doors of the Russian Embassy, hosting dinners for foreign policy professionals, Pentagon officials, journalists and Capitol Hill staffers.
Those who have attended the events describe him as a gracious and amiable diplomat, although perhaps not as polished - nor as confrontational - as his more famous boss, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
In 2015, when Kislyak invited a group of Washington-based journalists, including one from the Associated Press, to the Russian Embassy for tea, he used the meeting to push warmer relations between the two nations - despite the conflict over Russia's seizure of Crimea and the crisis in Ukraine.
Kislyak framed U.S.-Russian relations as salvageable and hoped specifically to combat what he considered cartoonish, anti-Russian depictions of his government in the American press.
At a press conference where he recused himself from the investigation into the Trump campaign's ties with Russia, Sessions said he discussed a number of things with Kislyak, including counterterrorism. He said the meeting became confrontational when the discussion turned to Ukraine.
Kislyak, 66, has bounced between the United States and Russia for most of his long career.
His first foreign posting was to New York where he worked at the Soviet delegation at the United Nations in the early 1980s. He spent the following years as the first secretary and then councilor at the Soviet Embassy in Washington before returning to Moscow in 1989, where he took a succession of senior jobs at the Foreign Ministry.
He did a stint as Russian ambassador to Belgium and simultaneously served as Moscow's envoy at NATO. He then returned to Moscow to serve as a deputy foreign minister, overseeing relations with the United States and arms control issues before being sent to Washington.
Kislyak's contacts have sparked questions about his role or involvement in the hacking, questions that are difficult to answer.
The U.S. and Russia, along with many other countries, have made it a practice to separate their top diplomats from espionage activities, although it is not uncommon for an intelligence agent to operate under the cover of a senior-level diplomat. Foreign diplomats to the United States likely expect that their activities will be monitored by U.S. authorities in the same manner that American diplomats are monitored in countries like Russia.
Russian ambassadors most likely are aware of the intelligence agents operating under diplomatic cover, but are not believed to part of the security services themselves.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Thursday ridiculed the claims of Kislyak's involvement in espionage as "total disinformation" and part of efforts to sway public opinion.
"I'll open a military secret for you: It's the diplomats' jobs to have contacts in the country they are posted to," she said sarcastically. "It's their obligation to meet with officials and members of the political establishment."
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Isachenkov reported from Moscow. Associated Press writer Bradley Klapper and Matthew Lee contributed to this report.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - The Latest on a bribery trial for a former Utah attorney general (all times local):
6:35 p.m.
A jury is acquitting a former Utah attorney general of bribery and evidence tampering charges in one of the highest-profile scandals in state history.
Former Utah Attorney General John Swallow looks on during his trial Wednesday, March 1, 2017. The jury has begun deliberations in a bribery trial for a former Utah attorney general. The jurors heard distinctly different characterizations of John Swallow's interactions with campaign donors and business people during closing arguments Wednesday. (Scott Sommerdorf/The Salt Lake Tribune, via AP, Pool)
The jury announced its verdict against John Swallow on Thursday in a Salt Lake City courtroom following a three-week trial. Swallow was found not guilty of nine counts. He had faced one to 30 years in prison.
Prosecutors accused Swallow of hanging a virtual "for sale" sign on the door to the state's top law enforcement office by taking campaign donations and gifts like beach vacations from fraudsters and businessmen in exchange for favorable treatment.
Swallow's defense attorneys argued that the case was a politically motivated smear campaign and that prosecutors were twisting the facts to fit the story they wanted to tell.
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6:25 p.m.
A jury has reached a verdict in the bribery trial of a former Utah attorney general that became one of the highest-profile scandals in state history.
State court spokesman Geoff Fattah tweeted Thursday that the jury has made a decision. The verdict will be read shortly in a Salt Lake City courtroom.
John Swallow is charged with nine counts, including bribery and evidence tampering. He faces one to 30 years in prison.
Prosecutors say Swallow played a key role in a bribery scheme that went well beyond relationships allowed between elected officials and campaign donors, including trading luxury trips for favorable treatment.
Swallow's defense called the case a desperate "house of cards" built on claims from an untrustworthy fraudster to try to make routine political dealings seem criminal.
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1:25 p.m.
A judge has denied a mistrial request by attorneys for a former Utah attorney general charged with bribery.
The request was made after the jury received erroneous instructions that included a money laundering charge that was dismissed during the trial.
Judge Elizabeth Hruby-Mills said Thursday in a written ruling that the mistake likely had a minimal impact on the jury taken in context with what was said during the trial and closing arguments. She said a note explaining the error that was given to the jury remedies the mistake.
Hruby-Mills says the mistake appears to be nothing more than a clerical error.
The 54-year-old John Swallow is charged with nine counts, including bribery and evidence tampering.
A jury of five men and three women has been went back into session Thursday morning after spending a couple of hours on the case Wednesday night after closing arguments.
Swallow's attorney, Scott Williams, argued that a mistrial was needed because there's no way to know how the money laundering charge influenced jury's deliberations.
Prosecutor Fred Burmester countered that the error doesn't warrant a mistrial because the charge was hardly discussed during trial and not mentioned in closing arguments.
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12:15 p.m.
Attorneys for a former Utah attorney general on trial for bribery are asking for a mistrial after the jury received erroneous instructions that included a money laundering charge that was dismissed during the trial.
Judge Elizabeth Hruby-Mills said Thursday she will make a decision soon.
The 54-year-old John Swallow is charged with nine counts, including bribery and evidence tampering.
His attorney, Scott Williams, says a mistrial is needed because there's no way to know how the money laundering charge influenced jury's deliberations. The jury went back into session Thursday morning after spending a couple of hours on the case Wednesday night after closing arguments.
Prosecutor Fred Burmester countered that the error doesn't warrant a mistrial because the charge was hardly discussed during trial and not mentioned in closing arguments.
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10:11 a.m.
A jury has resumed deliberating in the bribery trial of former Utah attorney general, one of the highest-profile scandals in state history.
A jury of five men and three women went back into session Thursday morning after spending a couple of hours on the case Wednesday night after closing arguments.
The 54-year-old John Swallow is charged with nine counts, including bribery and evidence tampering.
Prosecutors said during closing arguments that Swallow played key role in a bribery scheme that went well beyond relationships allowed between elected officials and campaign donors, including trading luxury trips for favorable treatment.
Swallow's defense called the case a desperate "house of cards" built on claims from an untrustworthy fraudster to try to make routine political dealings seem criminal.
The former top lawman did not testify during trial.
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Indonesians are by turns shocked and bemused by Donald Trump's volatile presidency, but many in the world's most populous Muslim nation say his personality and actions - including his controversial travel ban - haven't changed their positive view of the United States.
There is a reservoir of goodwill in Indonesia toward the U.S., which Indonesians often see as a beacon for values they hope will flourish in their own country. Perceptions were particularly positive during Barack Obama's administration because of Obama's personal links to Indonesia and his efforts to heal divisions with the Muslim world.
The U.S. is one of the largest foreign investors in Indonesia. Phoenix, Arizona-based Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc. operates one of the world's largest copper mines and the world's largest gold mine in Indonesia's easternmost province of Papua.
In this Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017, Rudy Madanir, an English teacher, poses for a photo during an interview with The Associated Press in Jakarta, Indonesia, Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017. Indonesians are by turns shocked and bemused by Donald Trump's volatile presidency, but many in the world's most populous Muslim nation say his personality and actions _ including his controversial travel ban _ haven't changed their positive view of the United States. There is a reservoir of goodwill in Indonesia toward the U.S., which Indonesians often see as a beacon for values they hope will flourish in their own country. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara)
Still, Trump's attempt to ban travel from seven predominantly Muslim nations is deeply unpopular with Indonesians, who see it as an anti-Muslim measure that could affect them even though their country is not one of the seven being targeted. Indonesia's foreign ministry warned that Trump's policy could undermine the global fight against terrorism, but President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo was sanguine, telling his country there was nothing to worry about.
In fact, some say, Trump just needs to visit Indonesia and learn more about Islam.
Despite the perceptions created by a vocal hard-line minority, Muslim Indonesians mainly practice a moderate faith and want their young but feisty democracy to remain headed by a secular government.
And like the U.S., Indonesia is a former colony that struggled for its independence and a nation of remarkable diversity, with hundreds of languages and ethnic groups.
A look at how some Indonesians view Trump:
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RUDY MADANIR, an English teacher in Jakarta, the capital, who has visited the U.S. as a tourist and wants to travel there again, said he was shocked by Trump's election, having never imagined that "this kind of man could be sitting in the White House."
But Madanir, 47, also said the protests against the travel ban showed there are many people in the U.S. who want to uphold values such as justice, freedom and nondiscrimination, and opened his eyes to how "beautiful" Americans are.
"Maybe tomorrow it will be Indonesia's turn (to be banned), who knows? With this weird and strange person sitting in the White House, anything can happen," he said. "I wish Trump can visit Indonesia, the world most populous Muslim country, so he will experience firsthand how Muslims are here. We are not as scary as he might think."
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TINGKA ADIATI, a 48-year-old housewife in Tangerang, a satellite city of Jakarta, said Trump's immigration policy did not change her image of America as a tolerant country open to people from around the world.
Trump is experiencing the "euphoria" of his victory, and given time, rather than Trump changing America, it will be him who is changed, Adiati said. His polices will also have to take into account the interests of American businesses in countries around the world, including Indonesia, she added.
"I'm sure Trump, with his life and business experience, he'll learn and become aware that what he was saying and policies he made were not always right, and he'll learn from that strong reaction from international society and his own people," she said. "He is bound to change. And do not forget, the U.S. also has a lot of interests in Indonesia. Surely he would not dare to issue such a ban to Indonesia."
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LUKAS CHRISTIAN, who owns a coffee shop in Tangerang, has a son at Wesleyan University in Connecticut who is planning to work in the U.S. after graduating this year.
Christian, 52, hopes his son's Indonesian nationality won't be a complicating factor. So far it hasn't, but the possibility still troubles him.
Indonesians consider America to be a tolerant society, and the travel ban shows Trump's own dislike of immigrants and Islam, he said.
Christian said Indonesia is "totally different" from the seven Muslim countries included in Trump's ban. "Although Muslims are predominant here, we have (the state ideology) Pancasila and a secular constitution that protects diversity. I myself respect diversity," he said.
"As a coffee seller, I can say this: There are many varieties of coffee in Indonesia, from Aceh to Papua, and people enjoy its variety, and it is just like the way of Indonesian thinking - tolerant," he said.
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MARIA KARTIKA SARI, a tour guide who lives in Jakarta, said she believes the majority of Americans disagree with Trump's travel ban. The 30-year-old said she has always considered the U.S. to be a tolerant nation of immigrants that is similar to Indonesia insofar as both countries have many different ethnic groups and religions.
"When I heard Trump banned the entry of nationals from seven Muslim nations, I considered it as his personal decision because Americans are not like that," she said.
The seven countries targeted by the ban are known as "troublemakers," she said, but that reputation stems from the actions of a few people, and it's unjust to impose punitive measures against an entire country on that basis.
"I want to say to Trump, he is a president now, no longer a businessman," she said. "I understand he's a stubborn old man, but it is good for him to know that today he leads the United States, not just a company. He should change."
In this Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017, photo, Maria Kartika Sari, a freelance tour guide, poses for a photo during an interview with The Associated Press in Jakarta, Indonesia. Indonesians are by turns shocked and bemused by Donald Trump's volatile presidency, but many in the world's most populous Muslim nation say his personality and actions _ including his controversial travel ban _ haven't changed their positive view of the United States. There is a reservoir of goodwill in Indonesia toward the U.S., which Indonesians often see as a beacon for values they hope will flourish in their own country. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara)
In this photo taken Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017, Tingka Adiati, a housewife, talks during an interview with The Associated Press at her residence in Tangerang, Indonesia. Indonesians are by turns shocked and bemused by Donald Trump's volatile presidency, but many in the world's most populous Muslim nation say his personality and actions _ including his controversial travel ban _ haven't changed their positive view of the United States. There is a reservoir of goodwill in Indonesia toward the U.S., which Indonesians often see as a beacon for values they hope will flourish in their own country. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana)
BEIJING (AP) - Instead of dramatic new reforms, Chinese leaders are likely to emphasize reining in surging debt and financial risks to keep growth steady at this year's meeting of the ceremonial national legislature.
The ruling Communist Party is trying to build an economy driven by consumer spending instead of trade and investment. But that could be complicated by trade tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump and slowing demand for export industries that support millions of jobs.
The meeting of the 3,000-plus members of the National People's Congress does little lawmaking. Instead, communist leaders use it to showcase themes for the year's government work.
FILE - In this Aug. 25, 2016 file photo, a couple walks in front of a work safety propaganda billboard in Beijing, China. Instead of dramatic new reforms, Chinese leaders are likely to emphasize reining in surging debt and financial risks to keep growth steady at this year's meeting of the ceremonial national legislature. Chinese character at right reads "Safe Production." (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan, File)
The meeting comes ahead of a party congress late this year that is expected to endorse another five-year term for President Xi Jinping as party leader. That increases pressure to avoid drastic change.
Analysts expect the legislature to focus on important but unglamorous goals such as controlling debt and beefing up regulation of financial markets.
"We believe maintaining steady growth, strengthening financial regulation and containing risks will be the overall policy emphasis," Citigroup economists Li-Gang Liu and Xiaowen Jin said in a report.
GROWTH TARGET: Chinese leaders are expected to announce an annual economic growth target of about 6.5 percent, among the world's strongest though slower than last year's 6.7 percent expansion. The leaders are trying to shift public attention to improvements in incomes, consumer spending and other indicators but the growth target still is closely watched. The leadership has warned the outlook is "L-shaped," meaning once the slowdown bottoms out, growth is unlikely to rebound to past double-digit rates. Last year's growth, the weakest since 1990, was supported by government spending and easy credit. Without a repeat of that this year, "the headwinds of painful structural reforms, tighter monetary policy and weak exports are likely to limit growth," said Diana Choyleva of Edono Economics in a report.
FINANCIAL RISKS: After a decade of credit-fueled growth, regulators are trying to control debt, clear unpaid loans off the books of state banks and reduce risk in financial markets. Total debt owed by Chinese companies and local governments has soared from the equivalent of 150 percent of annual economic output before the 2008 financial crisis to about 260 percent. That has prompted warnings it could drag on growth. Debt is "without a doubt the biggest challenge in the economy today," said IHS economist Brian Jackson. Regulators are hammering out deals for deeply indebted state companies to repay banks but borrowing still is rising. At a meeting Tuesday of the country's top economic planning body, President Xi Jinping said this year's economic work will stick to "seeking progress while maintaining stability," according to the official Xinhua News Agency. China's stock market regulator says this year's priority is to tighten oversight and eliminate risky trading.
ENTREPRENEURS: Reform advocates complain Beijing is moving too slowly on initiatives to open the state-dominated economy to private companies. The Cabinet has promised better foreign access to finance, insurance, telecoms, internet services and other areas but has yet to disclose details. Limits on foreign ownership and other hurdles have tempered enthusiasm for such pledges. Xi's government is promising to give market forces a bigger role and make the economy more productive. But reform advocates complain Beijing is failing to reduce the dominance of state companies that are a drag on the economy and benefit from monopolies, low-cost access to bank loans and other privileges.
TRUMP: A looming threat for Beijing is Trump's campaign promise to raise import duties on Chinese goods to 40 percent, potentially disrupting industries that support millions of jobs. American companies are frustrated with Chinese restrictions on market access and want Washington to be more assertive but worry Trump could disrupt an important trading relationship if he acts recklessly. The American president has proposed a "border adjustment tax" on imports that would make Chinese goods more expensive in hopes of compelling manufacturers to shift production to the United States. Chinese leaders want to reduce reliance on trade but need steady exports to preserve jobs.
OVERCAPACITY: Chinese leaders are shrinking bloated industries including steel and coal in which supply exceeds demand, but Washington and Europe want them to move faster. A supply glut has led to a flood of low-cost Chinese exports that are hurting foreign competitors and threatening jobs abroad. The government said last year it had eliminated 90 million tons of steel production capacity - 2015 production was 800 million tons, or half the world total - and planned to shut down another 150 million tons. Authorities said last year they planned to eliminate some 1.8 million jobs in steel and coal. This week, the labor minister said another 500,000 jobs in steel and coal would be cut this year but did not say if the reductions would include other industries like cement and glass. Foreign aluminum suppliers want Beijing to shrink that industry as well. Those reductions come at a cost: Beijing announced a 100 billion yuan ($15 billion) fund in February 2016 to cushion the hardships for laid-off workers and help them find new jobs.
FILE - In this Jan. 18, 2017 file photo, a woman comforts a child near replicas of gold bars at a mall in Beijing, China. After a credit-fueled growth boom, Chinese leaders are trying to rein in growth of debt, clear unpaid loans off the books of state banks and reduce risk in financial markets. Total debt owed by Chinese companies and local governments has soared from the equivalent of 150 percent of annual economic output before the 2008 financial crisis to about 260 percent, an almost unprecedented increase. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan, File)
FILE - In this July 17, 2016 file photo, a welder works at a construction site in Beijing. Chinese leaders are shrinking bloated industries including steel and coal in which supply exceeds demand, but Washington and Europe want them to move faster. A supply glut has led to a flood of low-cost Chinese exports that are hurting foreign competitors and threatening jobs abroad. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan, File)
FILE - In this Nov. 10, 2016 file photo, a Chinese man holds up a Chinese newspaper with the front page photo of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and the headline "Outsider counter attack" at a newsstand in Beijing, China. A looming threat for Beijing is Trump's campaign promise to raise import duties on Chinese goods to 40 percent, potentially disrupting industries that support millions of jobs. American companies are frustrated with Chinese restrictions on market access and want Washington to be more assertive but worry Trump could disrupt an important trading relationship if he acts recklessly. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan, File)
AG's recusal portends continued pressure on Russia meddling
WASHINGTON (AP) - Attorney General Jeff Sessions may not have been clear about his contacts with Russian officials during the 2016 election, but this much is: The controversy over any Kremlin involvement in American politics is not going to fade away anytime soon.
Sessions on Thursday became the second high-ranking member of the Trump administration to take a hit over conversations with Russia's envoy to the U.S., recusing himself from any probe that examines communications between Trump aides and Moscow but facing down calls for his resignation. An early backer and key adviser for Trump's campaign, Sessions said his staff recommended that he step aside from a probe.
"I feel I should not be involved in investigating a campaign I had a role in," he said.
Sessions' action followed revelations that he twice spoke with the Russian ambassador and didn't say so when pressed, under oath, by Congress. Though he rejected any suggestion that he tried to mislead anyone, he did allow that he should have been more careful in his testimony.
"I should have slowed down and said, 'But I did meet one Russian official a couple of times,'" he said.
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Russia's top diplomat in US in eye of political storm
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Trump administration's back-to-back controversies over its Russian ties now have at least one thing in common: Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Moscow's top diplomat is a Washington fixture with a sprawling network, and he has emerged as the central figure in the investigations into Trump advisers' connections with Russia. In a matter of weeks, contact with Kislyak led to the firing of a top adviser to the president and, on Thursday, prompted calls for the Attorney General Jeff Sessions l to resign.
Separately, a White House official confirmed that Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and ousted national security adviser Michael Flynn met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in December for what the official called a brief courtesy meeting. Flynn was pushed out of the White House last month after officials said he misled Vice President Mike Pence about whether he and the ambassador had discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia in a phone call.
At issue Thursday were two meetings between Sessions and Kislyak - one in July and another in September, at the height of concern over Russia's involvement in hacking of Democratic officials' emails accounts. Intelligence officials have since concluded that Moscow ordered the hacks to tilt the election toward Trump. In his confirmation hearing, the Alabama Republican denied having contact with any Russian officials, neglecting to mention the meetings with Kislyak, which were first reported by the Washington Post.
The Russian Embassy did not respond to a request for comment.
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Railroad thefts and guns: A deadly mix in Chicago
CHICAGO (AP) - When street-gang thieves slipped with ease into a Norfolk Southern rail yard on Chicago's South Side and ripped locks off one train, they likely expected to see merchandise like toys or tennis shoes. What they beheld instead was a gangster's jackpot: box after box of brand new guns.
The guns had been en route from New Hampshire weapon maker Sturm, Ruger & Co. to Spokane, Washington. Instead, the .45-caliber Ruger revolvers and other firearms spread quickly into surrounding high-crime neighborhoods. Along with two other major gun thefts within three years, the robbery helped fuel a wave of violence on Chicago's streets.
The 2015 heist of the 111 guns, preceded by one in 2014, and another last September from the same 63rd Street Rail Yard highlight a tragic confluence. Chicago's biggest rail yards are on the gang- and homicide-plagued South and West sides where most of the city's 762 killings happened last year.
Chicago's leaders regularly blame lax gun laws in Illinois and nearby states that enable a flow of illegal weapons to the city's gangs and criminals. But community leaders and security experts say no one seems to be taking responsibility for train-yard gun thefts.
Only 16 of the stolen Rugers have been recovered since the 2015 break-in, according to hundreds of recent court records reviewed by The Associated Press. One was used in a Jan. 22, 2016, shooting. Police woke an attempted-murder suspect and found one by his bed. Another was in a dealer's home amid 429 bags of heroin. Police recovered another during a traffic stop; the driver said his friend had just been shot 10 times and he had to protect himself. "It's a war going on over here," he told police.
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Rival groups race for control of Syria's Raqqa
BEIRUT (AP) - A major battle to liberate the Islamic State group's stronghold of Raqqa in northern Syria is looming, with U.S. officials looking to build on momentum from victories on the battlefields of Mosul in Iraq. The Pentagon has drawn up a secret plan to do that, likely leaning on local allies with stepped-up American support.
The question is: who are those local allies in the tangled mess that is Syria's conflict?
Syrian government forces, Turkish troops and their Syrian militia allies, and U.S.-backed Kurdish forces all have their eye on Raqqa. Each vehemently rejects letting the others capture the city and would likely react in anger should the United States support the others. And it is not clear that any has the resources to take the city on its own.
"Raqqa is more of an abstract goal: everyone wants it in principle, but no one is willing to commit the resources and bear the risks necessary," said Faysal Itani, an analyst at the Washington-based Atlantic Council.
The fall of Raqqa, the Islamic State group's de facto capital and largest remaining stronghold, would be the biggest defeat for the militants in Syria since they captured the northern city on the banks of the Euphrates River in January 2014.
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US steps up in Somalia as al-Shabab proves a stubborn foe
MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) - With frequent suicide bombings and assaults on Somalia's hotels and military targets, the Islamic extremist group al-Shabab has proved more resilient than expected, leading President Donald Trump's administration to pursue wider military involvement here as current strategies, including drone attacks, are not enough, security experts say.
Senior U.S. officials have said the Pentagon wants to expand the military's efforts to battle the al-Qaida-linked group. Recommendations sent to the White House would allow U.S special forces to increase assistance to the Somali National Army and give the U.S. military greater flexibility to launch more pre-emptive airstrikes.
The U.S. is likely to find counterterror efforts in Somalia difficult and expensive, analysts say - especially with the recent emergence of fighters pledging alliance to the Islamic State group.
"The concern in Washington has been mounting for some time now. The Trump administration is simply reiterating what has been policy, with slight variations," said Rashid Abdi, a Horn of Africa analyst with the International Crisis Group. "U.S. special forces are already on the ground. Drone attacks have been scaled up."
Currently about 50 U.S. commandos rotate in and out of this Horn of Africa nation to advise and assist local troops. The commandos have accompanied Somali forces in several raids against al-Shabab fighters in which dozens of militants were killed, according to Somali intelligence officials, who insisted on anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the press.
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Atlanta history teaches the violent toll of anti-Semitism
ATLANTA (AP) - Amid a surge of bomb threats and vandalism at Jewish institutions nationwide, members of Atlanta's Jewish community have felt a familiar wave of apprehension about what may come next.
Because all of that, and worse, has happened there before.
Six decades ago, during the civil rights era's turmoil, 50 sticks of dynamite blasted a ragged hole in Atlanta's largest synagogue. A generation earlier, in 1915, Jewish businessman Leo Frank was lynched during a wave of anti-Semitism.
Some in Atlanta fear history is once again arcing toward the viperous climate that set the stage for earlier violence.
"It's heartbreaking to see the attacks and threats and desecration of Jewish cemeteries in recent days," said playwright Jimmy Maize, whose play "The Temple Bombing" is on stage this month at Atlanta's Alliance Theatre. "I have to say that writing this play feels too much like history repeating itself."
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Pence used a private email account to conduct state business
WASHINGTON (AP) - Vice President Mike Pence used a private email account to conduct public business as Indiana's governor, according to public records obtained by the Indianapolis Star.
The newspaper reported Thursday that emails provided through a public records request show that Pence communicated with advisers through his personal AOL account on homeland security matters and security at the governor's residence during his four years as governor.
The governor also faced email security issues. Pence's AOL account was subjected to a phishing scheme last spring, before he was chosen by Donald Trump to join the GOP presidential ticket. Pence's contacts were sent an email falsely claiming that the governor and his wife were stranded in the Philippines and needed money.
The governor moved to a different AOL account with additional security measures, Pence spokesman Marc Lotter said, but has since stopped using the new personal account since he was sworn-in as vice president.
Lotter said Pence "maintained a state email account and a personal email account" like previous governors in the state. At the end of his term Pence directed outside counsel to review all of his communications to ensure that state-related emails were transferred and properly archived by the state, the spokesman said.
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Art of the parse: Politicians finely split rhetorical hairs
WASHINGTON (AP) - Call it the art of the parse.
Everyone splits rhetorical hairs from time to time, but politicians are especially adept at trying to dance their way out of a bind with carefully crafted explanations.
Now, here comes Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who met with the Russian ambassador twice last year, maintaining that he was truthful when he told a Senate committee during his January confirmation hearing that he "did not have communications with the Russians." He was an adviser to Donald Trump's campaign at the time.
Sessions said at a news conference Thursday that his statement was "honest and correct as I understood it at the time" but that he'd be sending senators a clarification of his remarks.
He said his answer was truthful because the question had focused on Trump campaign contacts with the Russians, while he had met with the ambassador in his role as a senator, not as a Trump supporter.
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One N. Korean freed, another sought in nerve-agent killing
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) - Malaysian police on Friday released the only North Korean detained in the killing of the half brother of North Korea's leader, and later said an arrest warrant had been issued for another whose whereabouts are unknown.
Malaysia is looking for seven North Korean suspects in all, four of whom are believed to have left the country Feb. 13, the day Kim Jong Nam died. The only people in custody are two women - one Indonesian, one Vietnamese - accused of smearing his face with the banned nerve agent VX.
Ri Jong Chol, who had been detained since Feb. 17, was handed over to immigration officials for deportation. Police never said what they thought his role was in the attack, but national police chief Khalid Abu Bakar confirmed Friday that Ri was released due to a lack of evidence against him.
Malaysian Attorney General Mohamad Apandi Ali earlier said Ri would be deported because he lacked valid travel documents. Immigration director Mustafar Ali said Ri would be escorted by two representatives from the North Korean Embassy.
The women charged with murdering Kim at an airport terminal were caught on grainy surveillance video smearing what Malaysian authorities say was VX nerve agent on his face and eyes, though both reportedly say they were duped into thinking they were playing a harmless prank.
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Indonesians shocked by Trump, but still admire US values
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Indonesians are by turns shocked and bemused by Donald Trump's volatile presidency, but many in the world's most populous Muslim nation say his personality and actions - including his controversial travel ban - haven't changed their positive view of the United States.
There is a reservoir of goodwill in Indonesia toward the U.S., which Indonesians often see as a beacon for values they hope will flourish in their own country. Perceptions were particularly positive during Barack Obama's administration because of Obama's personal links to Indonesia and his efforts to heal divisions with the Muslim world.
The U.S. is one of the largest foreign investors in Indonesia. Phoenix, Arizona-based Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc. operates one of the world's largest copper mines and the world's largest gold mine in Indonesia's easternmost province of Papua.
Still, Trump's attempt to ban travel from seven predominantly Muslim nations is deeply unpopular with Indonesians, who see it as an anti-Muslim measure that could affect them even though their country is not one of the seven being targeted. Indonesia's foreign ministry warned that Trump's policy could undermine the global fight against terrorism, but President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo was sanguine, telling his country there was nothing to worry about.
In fact, some say, Trump just needs to visit Indonesia and learn more about Islam.
BEIRUT (AP) - After the battlefield of Iraq's Mosul, the next major campaign against the Islamic State group will be to take its de facto capital, the Syrian city of Raqqa. The Pentagon has drawn up a secret plan to do that, likely leaning on local allies with stepped up American support.
The question is: In the tangled mess that is Syria's conflict, who are those local allies?
Syrian government forces, Turkish troops and their Syrian militia allies, and U.S.-backed Kurdish forces all have their eye on Raqqa. Each vehemently rejects letting the others capture the city and would likely react in anger should the United States support the others. And it is not clear that any has the resources to take the city on its own.
FILE - In this undated file photo released by a militant website, which has been verified and is consistent with other AP reporting, militants of the Islamic State group hold up their weapons and wave flags on their vehicles, in a convoy on a road leading to Iraq, from Raqqa, Syria. A major battle to liberate the northern Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants is looming, with U.S. officials looking to build on momentum from the battlefields in Mosul. Armed with a new Pentagon plan to "rapidly defeat" the militants in both countries, President Donald Trump is now mulling options for upping the fight, which a top U.S. commander says he expects to be concluded within six months. (Militant website via AP, File)
"Raqqa is more of an abstract goal: everyone wants it in principle, but no one is willing to commit the resources and bear the risks necessary," said Faysal Itani, an analyst at the Washington-based Atlantic Council.
The fall of Raqqa, the Islamic State group's de facto capital and largest remaining stronghold, would be the biggest defeat for the militants in Syria since they captured the northern city on the banks of the Euphrates River in January 2014.
President Donald Trump has vowed to "obliterate" the group. "We will work with our allies, including our friends and allies in the Muslim world, to extinguish this vile enemy from our planet," he told Congress on Tuesday.
The top U.S. commander in the campaign against IS, Lt. Gen. Stephen Townsend, has said he believes Raqqa and Mosul will be taken within six months. So far, the offensive on Mosul has been underway four months, with only half the city captured from the militants in ferocious street-to-street urban combat. And that is using a relatively intensively trained and united military, backed by heavy U.S. firepower and commandos on the ground - a contrast to the comparatively undisciplined and fragmented forces the U.S. has to choose from as allies in Syria.
Raqqa is a smaller city than Mosul, but the militants are believed to have dug in with powerful fortifications there.
In Syria, U.S-backed predominantly Kurdish fighters known as the Syria Democratic Forces, or SDF, remain Trump's best bet. Aided by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes and some 500 U.S. special forces troops deployed in an advisory role, the force has been marching toward Raqqa since November. Closing in on the city from different directions, it is now stationed some eight kilometers (five miles) north of the city.
The U.S. military recently provided a small number of armored vehicles to the U.S.-backed force to give better protection from small arms fire and roadside bombs as they get closer to Raqqa.
Further aid to the rag-tag group, however, raises sensitive questions over how to deal with Turkey, a NATO ally with much at stake in Syria. Turkey considers the main Kurdish militia in Syria - known as the YPG, and an affiliate of the U.S.-backed SDF - a terrorist organization, and has vowed to work with Syrian opposition fighters known as the Free Syrian Army to liberate Raqqa.
In a dramatic reversal of years of the Obama administration's calls for the ouster of President Bashar Assad, Trump has hinted he might be willing to work with Assad's army and Russia, whose year-and-a-half military intervention has propped up Assad's government.
Assad's forces are preoccupied with other battles, however, and would likely need significant U.S. military involvement to take on Raqqa. On Wednesday, the Syrian military recaptured the central town of Palmyra, a city located in the desert south of Raqqa that has gone back and forth between control of the military and the extremists several times. The government forces have also clashed with the Turkish-backed Syrian fighters, who block their path to Raqqa.
Syrians are sharply divided over who should enter Raqqa. Many opposition supporters consider the SDF, which maintains a tacit non-aggression pact with Assad's forces, to be a hostile group. There are also fears of tensions if Raqqa, home to a nearly 200,000 mainly Arab population, is taken by the SDF, a coalition of Kurdish, Arab and Christian fighters.
"Let us be frank that any force that will liberate Raqqa, other than the Free Syrian Army, is going to be a new occupation force with different flags and banners," said Mohammed Khodor of Sound and Picture Organization, which tracks atrocities by IS in Iraq and Syria.
Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim was even more blunt, warning that if the SDF enters Raqqa, it will hurt relations between Ankara and Washington.
"We have said that a terror organization cannot be used against another terror organization," the Turkish leader told the state-run Anadolu news agency.
The Kurds reject that notion and insist that only forces fighting under the SDF banner will liberate Raqqa.
"Turkey is an occupation force and has no legitimate right to enter Raqqa," said SDF spokeswoman Cihan Sheikh Ehmed. In a text message exchange from northern Syria, she said the SDF has the experience in fighting IS to finish the operation.
Battlefield victories by the SDF against the Islamic State group have brought growing Western support. Asked if adding more U.S. troops or better arming Syria's Kurds were options, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said he will "accommodate any request" from his field commanders.
In Mosul, the U.S.-led coalition is playing a greater role than ever before in the fight against IS and coalition forces have moved closer to front-line fighting.
U.S. Air Force Col. John Dorrian says the increased support is an effort to "accelerate the campaign" against the Islamic State group, noting that launching simultaneous operations in both Mosul and Raqqa "puts further strain on the enemy's command and control."
"It is a complicating factor when you don't have a partner government to work with," conceded Dorrian, adding that whoever the coalition partners with in the fight for Raqqa is "a subject of ongoing discussions."
Wladimir van Wilgenburg, a Middle East analyst at the Jamestown Foundation who closely follows Kurdish affairs, says the U.S.-led coalition wants to have a quick end to IS in Raqqa, from which external operations against the West are planned. That means it would prefer to work with the Kurdish-led SDF forces "since they are able to mobilize manpower unlike the Turks," he said.
In any case, the battle for Raqqa is sure to be a long and deadly one. It took the SDF nearly 10 weeks to capture the northern Syrian town of Manbij from IS last year. It took Turkish forces and allied groups more than three months to retake the town of al-Bab, a costly battle that killed dozens of Turkish soldiers and many civilians.
Raqqa is much larger than either Manbij or al-Bab. Some Syrian opposition activists say the extremists dug a trench around it to make it difficult for attackers to storm it.
"It would be difficult for any troops," said Itani of the Atlantic Council.
"Witness the slow and ugly progress in Mosul as well. Raqqa would be tough," he said.
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Associated Press writer Susannah George in Mosul, Iraq, contributed to this report.
FILE - In this Feb. 17, 2016 file photo, soldiers from the Syrian army fire a rocket at Islamic State group positions in the province of Raqqa, Syria. A major battle to liberate the northern Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants is looming, with U.S. officials looking to build on momentum from the battlefields in Mosul. Armed with a new Pentagon plan to "rapidly defeat" the militants in both countries, President Donald Trump is now mulling options for upping the fight, which a top U.S. commander says he expects to be concluded within six months. (Alexander Kots/Komsomolskaya Pravda via AP, File)
FILE - In this Feb. 17, 2016 file photo, a volunteer fighter with the Syrian Government forces gestures as he sits atop a tank in the province of Raqqa, Syria. A major battle to liberate the northern Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants is looming, with U.S. officials looking to build on momentum from the battlefields in Mosul. Armed with a new Pentagon plan to "rapidly defeat" the militants in both countries, President Donald Trump is now mulling options for upping the fight, which a top U.S. commander says he expects to be concluded within six months. (Alexander Kots/Komsomolskaya Pravda via AP, File)
FILE - In this Feb. 17, 2016 file photo, soldiers from the Syrian army carry a rocket as they prepare to fire at Islamic State group positions in the province of Raqqa, Syria. A major battle to liberate the northern Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants is looming, with U.S. officials looking to build on momentum from the battlefields in Mosul. Armed with a new Pentagon plan to "rapidly defeat" the militants in both countries, President Donald Trump is now mulling options for upping the fight, which a top U.S. commander says he expects to be concluded within six months .(Alexander Kots/Komsomolskaya Pravda via AP, File)
BEIRUT (AP) - A major assault on the Islamic State group's self-proclaimed capital of Raqqa is expected to begin in the coming weeks, but various military forces eyeing the northern Syrian city are bitterly divided.
Here's a look at the players:
SYRIAN KURDS
In this undated file image posted by the Raqqa Media Center, in Islamic State group-held territory, on Monday, June 30, 2014, which has been verified and is consistent with other AP reporting, fighters from the Islamic State group ride tanks during a parade in Raqqa, Syria. A major battle to liberate the northern Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants is looming, with U.S. officials looking to build on momentum from the battlefields in Mosul. Armed with a new Pentagon plan to "rapidly defeat" the militants in both countries, President Donald Trump is now mulling options for upping the fight, which a top U.S. commander says he expects to be concluded within six months. (Raqqa Media Center via AP, File)
The U.S.-backed Syria Democratic Forces - a Kurdish-led alliance that includes Arab tribesmen and Christian militias - is the most effective ground force battling the Islamic State group in Syria.
With the help of American advisers and U.S.-led coalition airstrikes, the SDF has captured much of northern Syria and since November has been working to isolate the city. But the main Kurdish militia in the group is seen as a terrorist organization by Turkey, a NATO member which also has its sights on Raqqa.
TURKEY
Ankara sent ground troops into northern Syria in August to help Syrian opposition forces drive Islamic State militants from the border and curb the advance of Kurdish forces, which it sees as an extension of the Kurdish insurgency in southeastern Turkey.
The Turkey-backed forces recently captured the former IS stronghold of al-Bab after three months of grueling fighting that killed scores of Turkish troops and allied Syrian fighters.
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said last month that his troops and allied Syrian fighters would eventually march on Raqqa, and his prime minister has warned that an SDF takeover of Raqqa would harm relations between Ankara and Washington.
SYRIAN GOVERNMENT
Syrian government forces have also been on the offensive against the IS group in northern Syria, capturing dozens of villages from the extremists in recent weeks.
The troops are backed by battle-hardened members of Lebanon's Hezbollah group and operate under the cover of Russian and Syrian airstrikes. Syrian President Bashar Assad has suggested that Raqqa could be their next target, but his troops are overstretched and lack the resources.
Syria's government is fiercely opposed to any involvement by Turkey, which is a leading sponsor of opposition forces battling to overthrow Assad.
U.S. AND RUSSIAN FORCES
Around 500 U.S. special operations forces are in Syria helping to organize, advise and assist local forces, mainly the SDF. The U.S. military has also provided a small number of armored vehicles to the Syria Arab Coalition, part of the SDF, for better protection as they get closer to Raqqa.
Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Monday gave the White House a plan to "rapidly defeat" the Islamic State group, a strategy that could potentially deepen U.S. military involvement in Syria.
That may elevate the risk of a confrontation with Russia, which has been waging an intensive air campaign in support of Assad's forces since 2015. A U.S. general said Wednesday that a Russian airstrike in northern Syria hit the Syria Arab Coalition, adding than an unspecified number of American military advisers were a few kilometers (miles) away. Russia denied responsibility.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - President Donald Trump toured a private religious school in Florida on Friday, praising it as an ideal institution for "disadvantaged children" while re-emphasizing that his education agenda will focus on school choice.
Trump visited St. Andrew Catholic School in Orlando, dropping in on a fourth-grade classroom and shaking hands with students who said they were learning about the history of Florida. When one girl said she wanted to own her own business, he said with a smile that she's "gonna make a lot of money. But don't run for politics."
The president, who was joined by Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, a longtime charter schools advocate, described St. Andrew as "one of the many parochial schools dedicated to educating some of our nation's most disadvantaged children."
President Donald Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos pose with fourth graders Janayah Chatelier, 10, left, Landon Fritz, 10, after they received cards from the children, during a tour of Saint Andrew Catholic School, Friday, March 3, 2017, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
"Education is the civil rights issue of our time," said Trump, repeating a line from his address to Congress this week.
Teachers unions were quick to criticize the visit, saying it showed hostility by Trump toward public schools and an intention to turn education into a profit-making industry.
Trump said he would ask lawmakers to pass a bill that would fund school choice for disadvantaged young people, including minority children. He did not offer any details.
Among his guests were Gov. Rick Scott, Sen. Marco Rubio and Denisha Merriweather, who used Florida's school voucher program to attend a private high school that she credits with turning her life around. Many of St. Andrew's students attend the school using the same voucher program as Merriweather, said White House spokesman Ninio Fetalvo.
"We want millions more to have the same chance to achieve the great success that you're achieving," Trump said. The president also told Latrina Peters-Gipson, the school principal, that "the love you have for what you do is really fantastic."
Despite being at the school, Trump also noted anew that he captured Florida in last year's election. After the visit, he flew to his coastal home in Palm Beach and later attended a Republican National Committee fundraiser that was closed to the news media. Trump was scheduled to return to the White House late Sunday.
DeVos has a long history of promoting charter schools and vouchers. Charter schools are funded with taxpayer dollars, but are run by private groups and have more freedom over curriculum, staff and budget. Vouchers are essentially publicly funded scholarships given to low-income families to help cover private-school tuition.
White House spokesman Sean Spicer said earlier in the week that education is "a top priority" for the president.
"He has said many times before that education has the ability to level the playing field for the next generation," Spicer said, adding that Trump "is determined to provide choice for every parent and opportunities for every child, regardless of their zip code."
St. Andrew Catholic School teaches 350 children from pre-K to eighth grade. The school defines its mission as "developing the students' spirituality and creativity in order to be disciples of Christ in the 21st century." A photo on the school's website shows a smiling boy in school uniform holding a sign that reads "My goals: College. Heaven."
"It's a very powerful message," said Samuel Abrams, director of the National Center for the Study of Privatization in Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, referring to Trump's choice of school to visit. "Advocates of traditional public schools should be worried because this means a diversion of funds from public coffers and thus support for public education."
Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, said that by visiting a private Catholic school, Trump is continuing an "ideological crusade."
Weingarten said that in many cases voucher programs have not improved children's academic outcomes. She added that voucher programs are often not transparent in how they spend public dollars and in what the kids are taught.
"To borrow a word from President Trump - it's so 'sad' that the president and his secretary of education have demonstrated such an antipathy toward public schools," Weingarten said in a statement. "Trump is in Florida to push choice and a backdoor voucher proposal as a way to turn education into a commodity."
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Lemire reported from New York. Associated Press writers Maria Danilova and Jill Colvin in Washington contributed to this report.
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This story has been corrected to show the expert's last name is Abrams, not Abramson.
President Donald Trump, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, his daughter Ivanka and Janayah Chatelier, 10, left, listen to Landon Fritz, 10, during a tour of Saint Andrew Catholic School, Friday, March 3, 2017, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
President Donald Trump walks with his grandchildren, Arabella Kushner and Joseph Kushner, across the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Friday, March 3, 2017, before boarding Marine One for the short flight to nearby Andrews Air Force Base, Friday, March 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)
Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos arrives in along with President Donald Trump in Air Force One at Orlando International Airport in Orlando, Fla., Friday, March 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Willie J. Allen Jr.)
DUBLIN (AP) - Sinn Fein, the Irish nationalist party, has fallen just short of becoming the largest party in elections for the Northern Ireland Assembly.
In results declared early Friday, the Democratic Unionist Party led with 28 seats, just one more than Sinn Fein's total.
At stake in the outcome from Thursday's snap election is the revival or demise of power-sharing between Irish Catholics and British Protestants, the central objective of the U.S.-brokered Good Friday peace accord nearly two decades ago.
Sinn Fein's party leader for Northern Ireland Michelle O'Neill celebrates with party members Francie Molloy, left, and Ian Milne, right, after toping the poll in Mid Ulster, Ballymena count centre, Northern Ireland, Friday, March 3, 2017. Counting has begun across Northern Ireland with Irish Nationalists seeking to boost their vote in an early election that could shape the fate of the Catholic-Protestant cooperation in Northern Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
Sinn Fein was seeking to overtake the Protestants of the Democratic Unionists and become the No. 1 party for the first time in Northern Ireland - an achievement that would have given Sinn Fein the right to the top government post of "first minister."
Sinn Fein's new leader in Northern Ireland, 40-year-old Michelle O'Neill, was mobbed by supporters as the results rolled in.
O'Neill, the daughter of an Irish Republican Army veteran with childhood memories of the conflict that claimed 3,700 lives, represents a leadership shift within Sinn Fein to the first post-war generation following the IRA's 1997 cease-fire and 2005 disarmament.
Friday's final Northern Ireland-wide total of first-preference votes - the core measure of party popularity - showed the Democratic Unionists narrowly on top with 28.1 percent, down 1 point from the last election 10 months ago. Sinn Fein trailed with 27.9 percent, up 4 points, the narrowest sectarian gap in Northern Ireland electoral history.
Commentators credited the Sinn Fein surge to Catholic voters' anger at the Democratic Unionists, especially outgoing First Minister Arlene Foster, who was blamed for overseeing a wasteful "green energy" program and for fostering a culture of insults and disrespect toward Sinn Fein.
Voter turnout reached nearly 65 percent, 10 points higher than last year.
Former Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness triggered the election by resigning in January, declaring the vote a referendum on Foster's leadership. McGuinness, a former IRA commander recently diagnosed with a rare and often fatal disease, didn't seek re-election.
Sinn Fein's party leader for Northern Ireland Michelle O'Neill talks to the media after toping the poll in Mid Ulster, Ballymena count centre, Northern Ireland, Friday, March 3, 2017. Counting has begun across Northern Ireland with Irish Nationalists seeking to boost their vote in an early election that could shape the fate of the Catholic-Protestant cooperation in Northern Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
Sinn Fein's party leader for Northern Ireland Michelle O'Neill celebrates with party members Francie Molloy, left, and Ian Milne, right, after toping the poll in Mid Ulster, Ballymena count centre, Northern Ireland, Friday, March 3, 2017. Counting has begun across Northern Ireland with Irish Nationalists seeking to boost their vote in an early election that could shape the fate of the Catholic-Protestant cooperation in Northern Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
Election workers continue to tally up votes in the count centre in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, Friday, March 3, 2017. Counting has begun across Northern Ireland with Irish Nationalists seeking to boost their vote in an early election that could shape the fate of the Catholic-Protestant cooperation in Northern Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
Election workers begin counting for the Mid Ulster area at the count centre in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, Friday, March 3, 2017. Counting has begun across Northern Ireland with Irish Nationalists seeking to boost their vote in an early election that could shape the fate of the Catholic-Protestant cooperation in Northern Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
Police officers patrol the count centre in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Friday, March 3, 2017. Counting has begun across Northern Ireland with Irish Nationalists seeking to boost their vote in an early election that could shape the fate of the Catholic-Protestant cooperation in Northern Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
People arrive to vote at a polling station in West Belfast, Northern Ireland, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Voting has begun Thursday in the British province of Northern Ireland to elect a new Stormont Assembly after the power-sharing government collapsed in January. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
A republican poster calling for people not to vote is displayed on a postbox in West Belfast, Northern Ireland, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Voting has begun Thursday in the British province of Northern Ireland to elect a new Stormont Assembly after the power-sharing government collapsed in Jan. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
Sinn Fein supporters arrive at a polling station in West Belfast, Northern Ireland, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Voting has begun Thursday in the British province of Northern Ireland to elect a new Stormont Assembly after the power-sharing government collapsed in January. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)
Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.
Morality cannot be legislated, but behavior can be regulated. Judicial decrees may not change the heart, but they can restrain the heartless.
A right delayed is a right denied.Like an unchecked cancer, hate corrodes the personality and eats away its vital unity. Hate destroys a man's sense of values and his objectivity. It causes him to describe the beautiful as ugly and the ugly as beautiful, and to confuse the true with the false and the false with the true.
Martin Luther King Jr.
No one is born hating another person People must learn to hate and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.
Nelson Mandela
We can disagree and still love each other, unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity and right to exist
James Baldwin
There is a fine line between free speech and hate speech. Free speech encourages debate whereas hate speech incites violence.
Newton Lee
The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything.
Albert Einstein
MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (AP) - Three suicide bombers set ablaze three fuel tankers in the center of Nigeria's northeastern city of Maiduguri before dawn Friday, officials said, just days before a planned visit by the U.N. Security Council.
Soldiers fired at one of the bombers, a teenage girl, to avert what could have been a major attack on the city's main fuel depot, according to the police chief and a witness.
"We are lucky. Today could have been another sad day for us in Maiduguri," police commissioner Damian Chukwu told reporters at the scene, where firefighters were dousing several fires.
The attack, outside a gas station opposite the northeastern headquarters of the Central Bank of Nigeria, killed only the three bombers, said Abdulkadir Ibrahim, spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency.
Officials blamed Boko Haram insurgents who many times have attacked Maiduguri, the birthplace of Nigeria's homegrown Islamic extremist group.
An elderly woman bomber blew herself up beside a stationary tanker loaded with fuel around 3 a.m., witness Mala Gajibo told The Associated Press.
She was accompanied by a teenage boy and girl who continued down the road toward the fuel depot until they were challenged by soldiers, Gajibo said. Chukwu also said soldiers fired at one of the bombers.
"They ordered them to stop but they chose to run," Gajibo said. "The male suicide bomber detonated his explosives near S. Baba (gas) filling station, while the girl was shot at by the military and ran under a parked truck loaded with petrol products which went up in flames" when her explosives detonated.
Increased security by Nigerian soldiers and civilian self-defense fighters has averted many suicide bombings in recent months.
The attack comes just days before the U.N. Security Council is expected in Maiduguri as part of a four-nation tour of countries in the Lake Chad Basin devastated by the seven-year Boko Haram uprising that has killed more than 20,000.
The uprising also has left 2.6 million homeless and created what the U.N. has called the continent's worst humanitarian crisis, with more than 5 million people in urgent need of food aid.
Council members began their tour Friday in Cameroon. A multinational force headquartered in Chad has driven Boko Haram out of towns and villages where the extremists had set up an Islamic caliphate. But suicide bombings and attacks on remote villages and military outposts continue.
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This story has been corrected to show that Chad, not Cameroon, is the headquarters of the multinational force.
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Faul reported from Johannesburg. Associated Press writer Joshua Ola contributed from Maiduguri.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) - A North Korean chemist deported from Malaysia accused police of threatening to kill his family unless he confessed to the assassination of the half-brother of North Korea's leader, calling it a plot to tarnish his country's honor.
Ri Jong Chol spoke to reporters in Beijing early Sunday while on his way to Pyongyang. Malaysian authorities have said there's insufficient evidence to charge Ri over Kim Jong Nam's killing at Kuala Lumpur's airport on Feb. 13.
Ri was detained four days after the attack but police never said what they believed his role was. Two women - one Indonesian, one Vietnamese - have been charged with murder after police said they smeared Kim's face with VX, a banned nerve agent considered a weapon of mass destruction.
North Korean Ri Jong Chol speaks in front of reporters at the North Korean Embassy in Beijing early Saturday, March 4, 2017. Malaysian authorities on Friday deported the only North Korean detained in the killing of the half brother of North Korea's leader after releasing him because of a lack of evidence to charge him. (Naohiko Hatta/Kyodo News via AP)
Ri said he wasn't at the airport the day Kim was killed but that police accused him of being a mastermind and presented him with "fake evidence." He said they showed him a picture of his wife and two children, who were staying with him in Kuala Lumpur, and threatened to kill them.
"These men kept telling me to admit to the crime, and if not, my whole family would be killed, and you too won't be safe. If you accept everything, you can live a good life in Malaysia," Ri said. "This is when I realized that it was a trap ... they were plotting to tarnish my country's reputation."
Police did not immediately respond to a request for comment Saturday.
Immigration Director-General Mustafar Ali said Friday that Ri has been blacklisted from re-entering Malaysia.
Malaysia is looking for seven other North Korean suspects, four of whom are believed to have left the country on the day of the killing. Three others, including an official at the North Korean Embassy and an employee of Air Koryo, North Korea's national carrier, are believed to still be in Malaysia.
Police on Friday issued an arrest warrant for the Air Koryo employee, Kim Uk Il, but didn't say why he is a suspect . Police say he arrived in Malaysia on Jan. 29, about two weeks before Kim was killed.
Kim's death has unleashed a diplomatic battle between Malaysia and North Korea. Malaysia said it was scraping visa-free entry for North Koreans, while the Foreign Ministry said it was "greatly concerned" about the use of the nerve agent.
Malaysia has not directly accused North Korea of being behind the killing, but the ministry statement came hours after a North Korean envoy rejected a Malaysian autopsy finding that VX killed Kim. Ri Tong Il, a former North Korean deputy ambassador to the United Nations, said that the man probably died of a heart attack because he suffered from heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
He said that if VX had been used, others besides Kim would have been killed or sickened. Malaysian police have brushed off Ri's claim of a heart attack and insisted he was murdered.
The two female suspects at an airport terminal were caught on grainy surveillance video smearing what Malaysian authorities say was VX on his face and eyes, though both reportedly say they were duped into thinking they were playing a harmless prank.
Kim died within 20 minutes, authorities say. No bystanders reported falling ill.
Police said the women had been trained to go immediately to the bathroom and wash their hands. Police said the four North Korean suspects who had left the country put the VX liquid on the women's hands.
Police can't confirm whether the two women may have been given antidotes before the attack. An antidote, atropine, can be injected after exposure and is carried by medics in war zones where weapons of mass destruction are suspected.
Malaysia's finding that VX killed Kim boosted speculation that North Korea orchestrated the attack. Experts say the oily poison was almost certainly produced in a sophisticated state weapons laboratory, and North Korea is widely believed to possess large quantities of chemical weapons including VX.
North Korea is trying to retrieve Kim's body, but has not acknowledged that the victim is Kim Jong Un's half brother.
North Korean Ri Jong Chol, right, speaks to reporters from behind a fence at the North Korean Embassy in Beijing early Saturday, March 4, 2017. Malaysian authorities on Friday deported the only North Korean detained in the killing of the half brother of North Korea's leader after releasing him because of a lack of evidence to charge him. (Minoru Iwasaki/Kyodo News via AP)
North Korean Ri Jong Chol criticizes Malaysian government's investigation, at the North Korean Embassy in Beijing early Saturday, March 4, 2017. Malaysian authorities on Friday deported the only North Korean detained in the killing of the half brother of North Korea's leader after releasing him because of a lack of evidence to charge him. (Minoru Iwasaki/Kyodo News via AP)
North Korean Ri Jong Chol speaks to reporters from behind a fence at the North Korean Embassy in Beijing early Saturday, March 4, 2017. Malaysian authorities on Friday deported the only North Korean detained in the killing of the half brother of North Korea's leader after releasing him because of a lack of evidence to charge him. (Naohiko Hatta/Kyodo News via AP)
North Korean Ri Jong Chol detained in the killing of the half brother of North Korea's leader, arrives at Beijing Capital International Airport in Beijing early Saturday, March 4, 2017. Malaysian authorities on Friday deported Ri after releasing him because of a lack of evidence to charge him. (Minoru Iwasaki/Kyodo News via AP)
In this Friday, March 3, 2017 photo, North Korean Ri Jong Chol, center, waits for the departure inside a plane bound for Beijing, China, at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia. Malaysian authorities on Friday deported the only North Korean detained in the killing of the half brother of North Korea's leader after releasing him because of a lack of evidence to charge him. (Daisuke Sato/Kyodo News via AP)
DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) - Police in Bangladesh's capital have arrested the spiritual leader of a banned militant group that is responsible for a series of attacks in the South Asian country, an official said Friday.
Maulana Abul Kashem was arrested Thursday night, said Monirul Islam, chief of the police Counterterrorism and Transnational Crimes Unit. Kashem was a teacher at an Islamic school in northern Bangladesh and was acting as chief of a faction of the Jumatul Mujahedeen Bangladesh, or JMB, Islam said.
Police say Kashem played a key role in a July 2016 attack in which 17 foreigners were killed when five militants stormed a restaurant in Dhaka's diplomatic zone. Kashem was allegedly connected with Tamim Chowdhury, a Bangladeshi-born Canadian who was killed in a raid in August. Police said Chowdhury was the main planner of the group.
Some 40 suspects have been killed since July in a crackdown on militants ordered by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government.
The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the July attack, but the government blamed the JMB.
Dozens of atheists, liberal writers, bloggers and publishers as well as members of minority communities and foreigners have been targeted by militants.
MOSCOW (AP) - The Russian Defense Ministry says the nation's top military officer has spoken to his NATO counterpart for the first time in several years.
The ministry said Gen. Valery Gerasimov, the chief of the General Staff of the Russian armed forces, had a phone call Friday with Czech Army Gen. Petr Pavel, the chairman of NATO's Military Committee.
It was the first such high-level contact since NATO suspended a dialogue with Russia in 2014 over Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea and support for a separatist insurgency in eastern Ukraine.
The ministry said Gerasimov and Pavel discussed prevention of incidents, prospects for restoring military cooperation and acute security issues. It said Gerasimov relayed Moscow's concerns about NATO's buildup near Russian borders and the generals confirmed the need for joint steps to reduce tensions.
BRUSSELS (AP) - The European Union is still waiting for a "solid outline" from the U.S. on its goals for trade with the 28-nation bloc, a senior EU official said after the bloc's trade ministers met Friday, insisting that trans-Atlantic relations must be in both sides' interest.
There is widespread concern in Europe about the possibility of a more protectionist U.S. approach under President Donald Trump and about the administration's wider view of the EU.
One of Trump's first actions as president was to withdraw the U.S. from a trans-Pacific trade agreement. Talks on the long-planned Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership between the U.S. and EU are currently frozen, and that accord also faces opposition in parts of Europe.
"We await to hear a solid outline of the United States' plans and goals for trade with the EU," Economy Minister Christian Cardona of Malta, which holds the 28-nation EU's presidency, said after hosting fellow trade ministers in Valletta.
"There are risks for the multilateral trading system if the United States had to consider any extreme action, as in pulling out of WTO," or World Trade Organization, said Cardona, who spoke in English. He added that trans-Atlantic relations "should be in both the EU and the U.S. mutual interest."
EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said there is still "a lot of uncertainties" about the new administration's direction.
She added that she was "very encouraged" to hear strong support for the EU's own trade agenda, which includes trade negotiations with Japan, Mexico and South America's Mercosur bloc.
They offer "a possibility for the European Union to show that we can do good trade deals, sustainable trade deals that are win-win," Malmstrom said.
MADRID (AP) - Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres was released from the hospital on Friday following a scary head-to-head clash which left him unconscious.
Atletico said a CAT scan did not reveal any damage to his head or neck.
Torres told local media shortly after being discharged that he was "all well."
"It all turned out to be a big scare, and I am counting the days and hours before I can be back with my teammates," he said.
Doctors have ordered the 32-year-old former Spain striker to wait 48 hours before practicing or playing again.
"In a couple of days I will be able to train again and be back ready," Torres said.
Torres collapsed and lost consciousness after knocking heads with Deportivo La Coruna midfielder Alex Bergantinos in the 85th minute of Thursday's 1-1 draw in La Coruna.
He was assisted for several minutes by doctors before being taken off on a stretcher and transferred to a hospital.
Torres will miss Sunday's Spanish league match against Valencia.
LONDON (AP) - Prime Minister Theresa May has told her Conservative Party's Scottish conference that preserving the unity of the United Kingdom is a key objective of her government.
She warned in Glasgow Friday that the Scottish National Party's focus on gaining independence for Scotland had become an obsession.
The prime minister told her supporters that the SNP led by Nicola Sturgeon suffers from "tunnel-vision nationalism which focuses only on independence at any cost".
Sturgeon has indicated she may push for a second referendum on Scottish independence because of Scottish opposition to Britain leaving the European Union. She says the May government has not listened to compromise proposals to maintain EU ties.
May said there is "no economic case for breaking up the United Kingdom."
Scottish voters rejected independence in a 2014 referendum.
ASIA:
CHINA-ECONOMY - China's top economic official trims its growth target and warns of dangers from global pressure for trade controls, as Beijing tries to build a consumer-driven economy and reduce reliance on exports and investment. By Joe McDonald. SENT: 940 words, photos. With CHINA-POLITICS-POLLUTION - China premier pledges: 'We will make our skies blue again.' By Louise Watt. SENT: 420 words, photos; CHINA-POLITICS-MILITARY - In break with past, China releases no exact defense budget. SENT: 130 words, photos. UPCOMING: 350 words by 0600 GMT.
JAPAN-POLITICS-ABE - Japan's ruling party approves a change in party rules that could pave the way for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to become the country's longest-serving leader in the post-World War II era. By Ken Moritsugu. SENT: 500 words, photos.
PHILIPPINES-GERMAN HOSTAGE - Philippine troops have found the remains of a German hostage who was beheaded by Abu Sayyaf militants in the country's south after a ransom deadline lapsed. SENT: 130 words. UPCOMING: 250 words by 0600 GMT.
NKOREA-SUSHI RESTAURANT - Sushi in Pyongyang? At a restaurant run by a Japanese sushi chef famous for working for North Korea's late leader Kim Jong Il? Kenji Fujimoto has opened his sushi restaurant in the North Korean capital, according to Canadian Michael Spavor, a consultant with a long record of working in the communist state. SENT: 440 words, photos.
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HOW TO REACH US:
The editor in charge at the AP Asia-Pacific Desk in Bangkok is Hrvoje Hranjski. Questions and story requests are welcome. The news desk can be reached at (66) 2632-6911 or by email at asia@ap.org. The Asia Photo Desk can be reached at (81-3) 6215-8941. Between 1600 GMT and 0000 GMT, please refer queries to the North America Desk in New York at (1) 212-621-1650.
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BRATISLAVA, Slovakia (AP) - Britain's top official negotiating an exit from the European Union says a future free trade agreement his country seeks with the European Union is crucial for both Britain sides.
Speaking after meeting Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico on Friday, Secretary David Davis says "this is massively important to both sides."
Davis says Britain exports goods worth 230 billion euros ($242 billion) to the EU while EU nations export goods for 290 billion euros ($305 billion) to U.K. He says a recent investment of Jaguar Land Rover in Slovakia is "a component of that co-process ... we want to preserve, enlarge and encourage."
Davis also says his government wants to assure Slovak citizens in Britain "they will have equally good arrangements in the future as they have now."
FREDERICK, Md. (AP) - A Maryland woman imprisoned last year while visiting her native Gambia is back with her family in the United States.
News outlets report that Fanta Jawara arrived at Dulles International Airport on Thursday night, embracing her husband and daughters and greeting a crowd of supporters. She says she's "happy to be home."
Jawara is a naturalized U.S. citizen from Frederick. She and 17 others were sentenced to three years in prison after their arrest on charges of unlawful assembly, conspiracy and incitement to violence during an April anti-government protest. Jawara contends she was a bystander.
Fanta Jawara, center, a Maryland woman imprisoned last year while visiting her native Gambia, breaks down upon being reunited with her family on Thursday evening March 2, 2017, at the international arrival area of Dulles International Airport, in Frederick, Md. From left are her children Aminata Jawara and Sarah Jawara and her husband, Ebrima Jawara. (Dan Gross /The Frederick News-Post via AP)
She was released on bond in December after strongman ruler Yahya Jammeh lost the presidential election to Adama Barrow.
Jammeh stepped down Jan. 21 after a tense political standoff, clearing the way for Jawara's return.
LANSING, Mich. (AP) - A Michigan lawmaker who quit office amid a sex scandal in 2015 is expected to face trial this spring on a perjury charge.
The Detroit News reports (http://detne.ws/2mSQYF0 ) Ingham County Circuit Court Judge William Collette set the May 22 trial, despite objections from Todd Courser's attorney who says the case is being rushed.
Courser is accused of lying under oath during a legislative hearing about misconduct. Collette dismissed charges accusing Courser of misconduct in office.
In 2015, Courser asked an aide to send a phony email to cover up his affair with fellow GOP state Rep. Cindy Gamrat. Lawmakers later expelled Gamrat, but Courser resigned before they could punish him too. Charges against Gamrat were dismissed.
Courser has been declared competent for trial.
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Information from: The Detroit News, http://detnews.com/
NEW YORK (AP) - The Fire Department of New York says it has put out an apartment fire at the Trump International Hotel and Tower in Manhattan.
There were no serious injuries reported. One person refused medical attention.
The fire was reported around 4:15 a.m. Friday in a 47th floor apartment at the hotel on Central Park West, near Columbus Circle.
The cause has not been officially determined. However, the Daily News says it appears there may have been an electrical short circuit.
HAGATNA, Guam (AP) - A former Guam police officer has been found guilty of negligent homicide in connection to the 2015 shooting death of a fellow officer, but more serious charges have been dropped.
A Superior Court of Guam jury on Thursday found Mark Torre Jr. guilty of negligent homicide but acquitted him of murder and manslaughter, The Pacific Daily News reported (http://bit.ly/2lHh8Ku). He was also found guilty of felony aggravated assault and two special allegations of possession and use of a deadly weapon in the commission of a felony.
Sgt. Elbert Piolo was shot with Torre's gun inside his truck at Torre's house on July 13, 2015.
Defense attorneys had argued Piolo was distraught over an extramarital affair and shot himself with Torre's weapon as the other officer tried to stop him.
Chief Prosecutor Phillip Tydingco said negligent homicide normally carries a sentence of zero to five years in prison, but because Torre is a first-time offender, they will recommend zero to three years. With the additional charges, Torre could be sentenced to a maximum of 28 years in prison.
Torre declined to comment after the verdict, but his attorney Joaquin Arriola Jr. thanked the jury.
"On behalf of the Torre family, we express our sincere thanks to the jury for taking the time and effort to sit through this very long and arduous process of trial and, most importantly, for deliberating over two days to make a decision in this case and not rush to judgment," he said.
Piolo's mother, Jerelyn Piolo, said she and the rest of her family had hoped Torre would be convicted of murder but that she has resigned herself to the outcome.
"I'm just leaving it to God," she said. "Karma will do the rest."
PHOENIX (AP) - Two years ago, Steve Ronnebeck's son was gunned down at work in a Phoenix-area convenience store over a pack of cigarettes. The man accused of pulling the trigger was an immigrant who was in the country illegally and had been released by federal authorities.
The suspected killer, captured on camera calmly stepping over the body of 21-year-old Grant Ronnebeck to grab a few more packs, faced deportation but was free on bond.
Ronnebeck and other families who have lost loved ones to crimes committed by immigrants now have a forceful advocate at the highest level with President Donald Trump in the White House. During his speech to Congress on Tuesday, Trump announced that he would create a new office to serve victims of immigrant crime and their relatives.
Mary Ann Mendoza poses for a photograph while holding a framed picture of herself and her son, Brandon Mendoza, on Thursday, March 2, 2017, at her home in Mesa, Ariz. Families who have lost loved ones to crimes committed by immigrants are praising President Donald Trump's announcement this week that he will create a new office to advocate on their behalf. Mendoza's son, a Mesa police officer, was killed on May 12, 2014, in a head-on collision with a man who authorities say was intoxicated and an immigrant in the country illegally. Both Brandon Mendoza and the other diver were killed in the crash. (AP Photo/Brian Skoloff)
Although immigrants are responsible for only a small fraction of the crimes committed daily around the country, the issue played an outsized role in the race for the White House. Trump repeatedly invoked such crimes at rallies and frequently appeared with victims on the campaign trail, pointing to case after case in which people were killed by immigrant assailants who slipped through the cracks.
Many of the families have doggedly pressed for changes in the immigration system for years, lobbying lawmakers in Washington and even disrupting congressional hearings to make their point.
"To lose a child, especially when it was preventable, you know there's no coming back from that. You don't ever recover, but to have a president that is putting Americans first and putting the victims' families first, it's amazing," Ronnebeck said. "Finally we're being heard. My family feels like we actually matter again."
The man charged in Grant Ronnebeck's slaying has pleaded not guilty to murder, armed robbery and other charges. Adolfo Altamirano is scheduled to go to trial Sept. 18 in Maricopa County.
Trump's new agency will be the office of Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement, or VOICE, and will be part of the Department of Homeland Security. Department Secretary John Kelly described the agency's planned work in a memo last month.
Under President Barack Obama, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency protected information about immigration cases from public inspection, including from victims. It also created a public advocate position in 2012 that helped immigrants facing deportation and answered complaints or offered explanations about the agency's work.
Opponents criticized the administration for using government money to advocate for immigrants in the country illegally.
Don Rosenberg said an office like VOICE would have been useful when he was trying to navigate the judicial system after an immigrant named Roberto Galo killed his 25-year-old son, Drew, in a car collision after striking the law student's motorcycle in San Francisco in late 2010.
Rosenberg struggled to keep track of hearings and did not know what his rights were as the father of a victim.
Galo did not have a driver's license and was in the country illegally, although he had temporary protected status, meaning he was shielded from deportation. He was sentenced to six months in jail but was let out after 43 days, Rosenberg said.
He was eventually deported to Honduras.
Rosenberg became vocal against policies protecting immigrants. He was detained by U.S. Capitol police in July 2015 after getting into an argument with another man at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing examining the Obama administration's approach to immigration. Rosenberg said he got loud but not violent while arguing with a man. He was not charged.
Several studies have concluded that immigrants are less likely to commit crime than native-born U.S. citizens. A 2014 study published in the journal Justice Quarterly concluded that immigrants "exhibit remarkably low levels of involvement in crime across their life course."
Not all relatives of crime victims agree with Trump.
Andy Ostroy, of New York, said it's wrong for the president and others to demonize a group of people based on the actions of a few.
Ostroy's wife, Adrienne Shelly, was an actor and filmmaker with a young daughter. She was killed in 2006 by an Ecuadorean immigrant who was working in construction without legal status. Diego Pillco strangled Shelly and staged her death as a suicide. He confessed, pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
Ostroy said a program such as VOICE will fuel anti-immigrant rhetoric.
"Let's just work on crime, period," he said. "Let's not go down a dark, dangerous path of demonizing whole segments of our population."
Mary Ann Mendoza is the mother of a Mesa, Arizona, police sergeant killed in 2014 in a head-on collision with a drunken driver who was suspected of being in the country illegally. The driver, Raul Silva Corona, who had been driving the wrong way, was killed in the crash.
Mendoza said she has been working with members of the Trump administration as they create VOICE and is grateful for the president's actions.
"So many times families are left grieving the loss of their loved ones, and they're left wondering what happened in the system," she said. "I wish we had leadership in our state that stood up for Americans and would reach out to our families."
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) - The sale of Trump Taj Mahal casino to Hard Rock International has left some winners and losers in Atlantic City.
The winners included a union whose members were willing to lose their own jobs to stand up to Taj owner and billionaire investor Carl Icahn. And, a Native American tribe that had been toying with the idea of expanding its gambling operations to New Jersey will finally get to the Jersey shore.
The losers in the deal could include competing casinos that are just beginning to see the benefits of a slimmed-down gambling market in the resort town. Icahn, too, because he took a large loss on his ownership of the casino.
This Oct. 5, 2016 photo shows a sign outside the Trump Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City N.J. warning that the casino is to shut down on Monday Oct. 10. On March 1, 2017, billionaire investor Carl Icahn sold the shuttered casino to Hard Rock International, which plans to rebrand and reopen it. (AP Photo/Wayne Parry)
On Wednesday, Icahn sold the Boardwalk casino that was opened by President Donald Trump in 1990 to the Florida-based Hard Rock. The sale came four months after Icahn shut it down amid a crippling strike.
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WINNERS
UNITE HERE LOCAL 54
The main Atlantic City casino workers' union went on strike July 1 against the Taj Mahal after it could not reach a deal with Icahn to restore employee health insurance and pension benefits that were terminated in bankruptcy court. With no end to the walkout in sight and losing millions of dollars a month, Icahn shut the casino down on Oct. 10. Many of the union members said they were prepared to lose their jobs rather than accept a two-tiered benefit system different from the city's other casinos. Now, many of the nearly 3,000 workers who lost their jobs could be rehired when Hard Rock Atlantic City opens in spring 2018.
HARD ROCK
The company, which manages gambling and resort operations for Florida's Seminole Indian tribe, has been toying with the idea of expanding to New Jersey for years. It announced a plan in 2011 for a small music-themed casino at the southern end of the Boardwalk - then soon abandoned it. It made an unsuccessful bid on the former Revel casino while it was in bankruptcy. And, it sought and received prequalification for a New Jersey casino license in 2015.
Hard Rock proposed building a casino at the site of the Meadowlands Racetrack with owner Jeffrey Gural, but a statewide referendum to allow casinos outside Atlantic City was crushed by voters last November. Language in the referendum would have given existing Atlantic City casino operators first crack at one of two casino licenses in northern New Jersey. On Thursday, state Sen. Paul Sarlo, one of the authors of that bill, would not commit to a similar clause in any future referendum.
THE SHOWBOAT (AND REVEL/TEN?)
Philadelphia developer Bart Blatstein last year reopened the former Showboat casino as a non-gambling hotel. But foot traffic on the northern end of the Boardwalk has been sparse since the Showboat and Revel closed in 2014 and the Taj Mahal joined them last year. A reopened casino at the former Taj site would bring new life and pedestrians to an area that has resembled a ghost town in recent years. (There's no indication when - or even if - Revel will reopen as the rebranded TEN resort, with owner Glenn Straub neck-deep in multiple disputes with state agencies.)
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LOSERS
CARL ICAHN
It's not a role the sharp-elbowed investor is accustomed to, but it is hard to see his association with the Taj Mahal as anything other than a swing and a miss. The idea was to have a second casino hotel to complement his Tropicana casino in Atlantic City. But it didn't go as envisioned; Icahn told The Associated Press in January he had lost $300 million on the Taj Mahal. (No sale price was revealed.)
COMPETING CASINOS
The seven casinos currently operating in Atlantic City (there were 12 three years ago) have just begun to adjust to the slimmed-down market, with revenue starting to inch up with less competition. The addition of another casino, particularly a successful one with a globally known brand, could upset that delicate equilibrium and revive talk of an oversaturated market. And even though it could benefit from additional foot traffic, Straub's TEN would be competing with Hard Rock for customers on the northern end of the Boardwalk.
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Follow Wayne Parry at http://twitter.com/WayneParryAC
This Oct. 5, 2016 photo shows the exterior of the Trump Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City, N.J. On March 1, 2017, billionaire investor Carl Icahn sold the shuttered casino to Hard Rock International, which plans to rebrand and reopen it. (AP Photo/Wayne Parry)
PODGORICA, Montenegro (AP) - Pro-Russian opposition leaders in Montenegro have asked the White House chief strategist to help block the Balkan country's NATO bid, saying the Obama administration has presented false facts about its readiness to join the Western military alliance.
Two opposition officials, Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, wrote in a letter to Steve Bannon, a senior adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump, that the U.S. Senate should vote against the accession. The vote has been stalled because of objections by two senators.
The Associated Press obtained a copy of the letter on Friday.
FILE - In this Friday, Sept. 23, 2016 file photo, two senior opposition leaders Andrija Mandic, left, and Milan Knezevic attend a press conference in Podgorica, Montenegro. Pro-Russian opposition leaders in Montenegro have asked the White House chief strategist to help block the Balkan country's NATO bid, saying the Obama administration has presented false facts about its readiness to join the Western military alliance. (AP Photo/Risto Bozovic, File)
So far, 25 of 28 NATO members have approved Montenegro's membership bid, but the U.S. endorsement is considered crucial.
Trump's stand on NATO, which he once described an "obsolete" organization, and his positive remarks about Russian President Vladimir Putin have caused worries in Montenegro that the small country could be left without U.S. support amid the Kremlin's expanding influence in the Balkan region.
The Montenegrin opposition has boycotted parliament since the October election, when the country's pro-Western government accused it of attempting a pro-Russian coup that allegedly included plans to take over power and kill the then-prime minister, Milo Djukanovic, because of his NATO bid.
The letter, written on behalf of a coalition of opposition parties called the Democratic Front, warned that the security situation in Montenegro is "very complex" and that "the matter of relations to NATO demands exceptional caution." It added that Bannon should gain a "clear picture" of the situation before the final approval.
Mandic and Knezevic alleged that the U.S. has been presented with "false facts and superficial information" about Montenegro by the Obama administration.
They said Montenegro has been deeply split between those who seek NATO membership and those who reject it.
"Montenegrin society does not have a unique attitude regarding the admission to NATO as falsely alleged by the former administration in Washington," the letter stated. "In reality, Montenegro does not meet the criteria for admission to the Euro-Atlantic alliance because it cannot ensure its own internal stability and democratic system."
Russia has strongly opposed NATO expansion in Europe, especially if it brings countries like Montenegro that were considered close allies of Moscow into the military alliance.
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Jovana Gec and Dusan Stojanovic contributed from Belgrade, Serbia.
FILE - In this Feb. 7, 2017 file photo, White House chief strategist Steve Bannon listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with county sheriffs in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington. Pro-Russian opposition leaders in Montenegro have asked the White House chief strategist to help block the Balkan country's NATO bid, saying the Obama administration has presented false facts about its readiness to join the Western military alliance. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)
BRUSSELS (AP) - European Union foreign ministers are to discuss whether to hold high-level talks with Israel soon amid concern over its settlement policy and commitment to a two-state solution, diplomats said Friday.
The diplomats said the EU must be clear in its dealings with Israel, especially given the U.S. administration's unclear position on the decades-long conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
One said that any future official talks with Israel could not be "business as usual. Things have to be said very clearly to the Israelis."
The diplomats briefed reporters about Monday's foreign affairs talks in Brussels on the condition that they are not named.
The Palestinians want the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and east Jerusalem - territories Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war - for their future state.
They and most of the international community consider outposts and settlements illegal and see them as an obstacle to creating that state.
EU-Israeli relations are governed by an "Association Agreement," which entered force in June 2000. It foresees routine ministerial-level meetings, or Association Councils.
Israeli media has reported that one such meeting was scheduled for Feb. 28, but EU officials deny a date was ever set.
"We want to have a unified and clear European Union position that takes into account developments on the ground," the diplomat said. "Once we have a clear position, then we can look at a date."
The EU is the biggest donor of aid to the Palestinians but holds little influence over Israel.
A senior EU official insisted that preparation for the talks goes on, despite suspicion that the Europeans might be stalling.
"It's not frozen, not at all. Work has started," she said.
She acknowledged that President Donald Trump's ambivalence about the two-state solution has caused concern in Europe.
"There is an ongoing policy review in the United States," she said. "So we will continue to use every opportunity, every occasion, also at the level of senior officials, to promote our views."
Dismayed by Israel's continued settlement expansion, EU lawmakers have called for a freeze on the agreement.
"The continued application of the agreement in spite of Israel's clear violation ... sends a message to Israel that its practices will be tolerated without any impact," Cypriot EU lawmaker Neoklis Sylikiotis said in the West Bank last week while leading a delegation of EU lawmakers.
NEPTUNE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (AP) - Authorities are trying to determine what caused a fast-moving fire that gutted four homes and damaged three other structures in a historic New Jersey shore community.
Police Capt. Michael McGhee says flames broke out just after 5 a.m. Friday in a vacant hotel in the Ocean Grove section of Neptune Township, where homes are close together.
Flames and embers spread to the upper floors of the La Pierre condominium, across from Asbury Park. Two other structures were also damaged.
Emergency personal and investigators at the scene of a five-alarm fire that ripped through seven buildings on Seaview and Beach avenues Friday, March 3, 2017, in Ocean Grove, N.J. Authorities are trying to determine what caused a fast-moving fire that gutted four homes and damaged three other structures in a historic New Jersey shore community. Police Capt. Michael McGhee says flames broke out just after 5 a.m. Friday in a vacant hotel in the Ocean Grove section of Neptune Township, where homes are close together. (AP Photo/Doug Hood)
McGhee says everyone is accounted for and it could have been worse. Two firefighters had minor injuries.
The Red Cross is helping displaced residents.
Ocean Grove was formed as a religious community in 1869. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its extensive collection of authentic Victorian architecture.
Firefighters battle a blaze Friday, March 3, 2017, in Ocean Grove, N.J. Authorities are trying to determine what caused a fast-moving fire that gutted four homes and damaged three other structures in a historic New Jersey shore community. Police Capt. Michael McGhee says flames broke out just after 5 a.m. Friday in a vacant hotel in the Ocean Grove section of Neptune Township, where homes are close together. (AP Photo/James J. Connolly)
Emergency personal and investigators at the scene of a five-alarm fire that ripped through seven buildings on Seaview and Beach avenues Friday morning. Ocean Grove, N.J., Friday, March 3, 2017. Authorities are trying to determine what caused a fast-moving fire that gutted four homes and damaged three other structures in a historic New Jersey shore community. Police Capt. Michael McGhee says flames broke out just after 5 a.m. Friday in a vacant hotel in the Ocean Grove section of Neptune Township, where homes are close together. (AP Photo/Doug Hood)
FITZGERALD, Ga. (AP) - A second man was arrested Friday in connection with the slaying of Georgia high school teacher who vanished nearly 12 years ago, with warrants saying the new suspect helped the woman's killer dispose of her body.
The Ben Hill County sheriff's office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation declined to comment on the arrest of 32-year-old Bo Dukes, citing a gag order imposed by a judge earlier in the week.
But Georgia news media reported that arrest warrants showed Dukes was charged with concealing a body, evidence tampering and hindering the apprehension of a criminal in connection with the disappearance of Tara Grinstead.
FILE - In this Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2006, file photo, missing teacher Tara Grinstead is displayed on a billboard in Ocilla, Ga. Georgia Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge J.T. Ricketson tells multiple news outlets that investigators returned to a pecan farm Wednesday, March 1, 2017, searching for Grinstead's remains. Investigators dug through a wooded area Tuesday for Grinstead, who went missing from her Ocilla home in 2005. (AP Photo/Elliott Minor, File)
Grinstead, a former beauty queen and teacher, went missing from her home in October 2005. The case stumped investigators for more than a decade. But the GBI announced last week it had charged 33-year-old Ryan Alexander Duke with murder in the case.
Duke and Dukes were classmates at Irwin County High School at the same time Grinstead taught history there, said Wendy McFarland, a close friend of Grinstead's who still teaches at the school. McFarland said the two suspects are not related and that Dukes still lives in the area, though she wasn't certain of which county.
"He was just an extremely intelligent kid," McFarland said of Dukes. "I would absolutely not expect either of those to have been involved in this crime."
The second arrest came after GBI investigators spent several days searching a pecan farm near Fitzgerald, about 9 miles north of the rural farm community of Ocilla where Grinstead lived. The GBI has not said whether it found Grinstead's remains.
A search warrant said Dukes had helped "conceal and destroy" Grinstead's body in 2005, WMAZ-TV reported (http://on.wmaz.com/2lDkEVs ).
Dukes was released from jail Friday after posting $15,000 bond and waiving his first appearance before a judge, media organizations reported.
Superior Court Judge Melanie Cross, who is presiding over the murder case against Duke in neighboring Irwin County, issued a gag order Tuesday prohibiting attorneys, law enforcement officers, potential witnesses and relatives of the suspect and victim from discussing the case outside the courtroom.
GBI spokeswoman Nelly Miles cited the gag order when she declined to release information on Dukes' arrest.
"We've been told not to make any comments at all," Miles told The Associated Press.
A woman who answered the phone at the Ben Hill County Sheriff's Office said reporters seeking information on Dukes' arrest must submit a written request for records in person. The Georgia Open Records Act does not require requests for public documents to be submitted in person or prohibit them from being submitted electronically via email.
The judge wrote in her order that Duke's "right to a fair trial may be prejudiced" by public statements made by parties in the case outside the courtroom.
Nancy Ross, Superior Court clerk for Irwin County, told The Telegraph (http://bit.ly/2mTXIm1) of Macon that she had been "verbally instructed" by the judge to seal court records in the case as well. The written order itself does not mention sealing court records from public view.
"The judge's order, however well intentioned, is overbroad," David Hudson, an attorney for the Georgia Press Association, told the Macon newspaper.
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - A United Nations official who visited North Dakota in the wake of months of protests over the Dakota Access pipeline believes the concerns and rights of Native Americans haven't been adequately addressed.
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz is the U.N. special rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples. She believes authorities used unnecessary force against protesters, that the Standing Rock Sioux tribe wasn't properly consulted, and that the issue of trash left by protesters has been overblown.
North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum says the state has respected legal protests. He says it focused on maintaining peace and protecting the environment. He says his administration is restoring relations with the Standing Rock Sioux.
Tauli-Corpuz will make a report in September to the U.N. Human Rights Council. It will have no force of law.
HAVANA (AP) - Cuba's tobacco farmers are celebrating a bumper crop after two bad years that coincided with a boom in demand set off by a surge of tourists and looser U.S. rules on cigar-buying.
One night of rain combined with a winter chill can ruin a tobacco crop, leaving farmers nervous until the growing season has ended and the harvest has begun. This spring, the fields in Pinar del Rio Province, some 90 miles (150 kilometers) west of Havana, are carpeted with healthy green tobacco plants.
"This year I can't complain," farmer Luis Martinez says. "The weather helped the harvest and I think it'll be the best crop in many years."
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, a picker collects tobacco leaves at the Martinez farm in Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. Cuban tobacco farmers are celebrating a bumper crop after two bad years that coincided with a boom in demand set off by a surge of tourists and looser U.S. rules on cigar-buying. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
Sales of Cuban cigars topped $430 million in 2016, with demand increasing both nationally and worldwide.
Cruise ship tourists, U.S. visitors and others are snapping up boxes of cigars in stores around the country. The Obama administration last year made it legal for travelers to bring unlimited quantities of rum and cigars back to the U.S.
Distributors abroad are also reporting record sales in an important source of foreign revenue for the cash-strapped government.
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, students pass through on a dirt road flanked by tobacco fields in Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. This spring, the fields in the province some 90 miles (150 kilometers) west of Havana are carpeted with healthy green tobacco plants. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, tobacco farm owner Luis Martinez watches as a worker clears the ground of lose tobacco leaves in Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. "This year I can't complain," Martinez says. "The weather helped the harvest and I think it'll be the best crop in many years." (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, farm hand Jorge Luis Leon Becerra uses a plow powered by oxen over an area where tobacco plants were recently harvested, at the Martinez tobacco farm in Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio, Cuba. Soaking rains that came too early, followed by drought conditions essentially wiped out last year's crop, following on the heels of bad yields in the previous year. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, tobacco picker Romerio Garcia collects leaves at the Alfredo Rojas farm in Vinales, Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. This year, officials and farmers say, will prove to be a bumper crop of tobacco for the island, with yields from the country's tobacco plantations in the north showing healthy gains.(AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, tobacco picker Romerio Garcia collects leaves at the Alfredo Rojas farm in Vinales, Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. The lush green fields are carpeted with healthy tobacco plants. One cooperative foreman says his workers have harvested three or four times what they were able to bring in last year. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, a tobacco picker moves freshly harvested tobacco leaves to a drying shed at the Martinez tobacco farm in Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. The drying sheds are full of tobacco leaves, waiting for the moment when they are transformed into hard currency for the country, a welcome development for Cuba's ailing economy.(AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, a tobacco worker takes his daughter to school on horseback in Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. Despite the flood of visitors since Cuba and the U.S. reestablished relations, some aspects of life in the provinces have changed little. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, tobacco curers play cards and video games during a work break at a state-run warehouse in San Luis, Cuba's western province of Pinar del Rio. Workers say they're eager to see more benefits of Cuba's increasing links to the outside world since the start of new relations with U.S., without losing the placid lifestyle of the last half-century. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, despalilladoras, who remove the central vein from tobacco leaves, take a work break, inside a state-run warehouse in San Luis, in Cuba's western province of Pinar del Rio. Cuban officials say this year's tobacco harvest will far surpass the last two years' yield, ending what had been a potentially disastrous shortfall in production at a time of soaring worldwide demand for the country's popular cigars. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, a worker hangs tobacco leaves in a drying shed, at the Martinez tobacco farm in Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. The tobacco leaves will be hung to dry for almost two months before being sent off for cleaning and eventually rolled into cigars. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, images of the late leader Fidel Castro, revolutionary hero Ernesto "Che" Guevara, and tobacco farm scenes, decorate a wall inside a state-run "drying room" where tobacco curers take a work break in San Luis, Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio, Cuba. The drying sheds are full of tobacco leaves, waiting for the moment when they are transformed into hard currency for the country, a welcome development for Cuba's ailing economy. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, a worker removes fermented tobacco leaves from a box in preparation for the "breathing" stage, at a state-run warehouse in San Luis, in Cuba's western province of Pinar del Rio. Depending on the leaf, tobacco is left to "breath" in a dark space from anywhere between two months to several years. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 11, 2017 photo, workers who are responsible for handling freshly cut tobacco leaves, change into their street clothes at the end of their work shift at a state-run warehouse in Alquizar, in Cuba's western province Artemisa. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
In this Feb. 28, 2017 photo, a "despalilladora" removes the central vein from a tobacco leaf inside a state-run warehouse in San Luis, in Cuba's western province Pinar del Rio. After the central vein is removed from each dried leaf, they're dipped in ammonium and water and dried again for at least two months. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
Rollers make cigars at La Corona cigar factory in Havana, Cuba, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Cuban officials say this year's tobacco harvest will far surpass the last two years' yield, ending what had been a potentially disastrous shortfall in production at a time of soaring worldwide demand for the country's popular cigars. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
A roller puffs on a cigar while working at La Corona cigar factory in Havana, Cuba, March 2, 2017. Exports of Cuban stogies reached more than 430 million US dollars per year in 2016, with demand increasing both nationally and worldwide. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
A sorter selects cigars at the H. Upmann cigar factory in Havana, Cuba, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Distributors abroad are reporting record sales, making cigar sales an important source of foreign revenue for the cash-strapped government. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
ACAPULCO, Mexico (AP) - A journalist was murdered in the troubled southern state of Guerrero, Mexican authorities said Friday, adding to a long list of reporter killings in what is considered one of the world's most dangerous countries for media professionals.
The Guerrero state prosecutor's office said in a statement that Cecilio Pineda Birto was shot dead Thursday evening in Ciudad Altamirano while in a hammock at a car wash waiting for his car to be serviced. Prosecutors said two attackers arrived on a motorcycle and one of them fired a handgun, according to eyewitness accounts.
Authorities were investigating, and there was no immediate word on whether his killing may have been related to his work.
Pineda was the founder of La Voz de Tierra Caliente, collaborated with various other media outlets and also published reports via Facebook, said Carlos Lauria, senior program coordinator for the Americas at the U.S.-based Committee to Protect Journalists, who has been working to document the case.
Lauria told The Associated Press that according to a witness, Pineda was shot at least 10 times, including once in the neck and four times in the chest.
Pineda was apparently receiving threats on a weekly basis, mostly through social media, according to Lauria. He added that Pineda escaped a previous attempt to kill him in September 2015 when a gunman shot at him at his home.
The man who shot at him then had apparently told Pineda's wife he was there to warn him that his boss didn't like what he was writing. Shortly after, Pineda said he received a phone call from the local organized crime boss nicknamed "El Tequilero" again warning him to lay off, according to government records.
One week after that attempt, a federal government unit that protects journalists had arranged for federal police to relocate Pineda and his family after judging his risk level to be "extraordinary," according to documents provided by the government. On the day of his scheduled departure, Pineda sent an email saying he was ill and unable to travel. Several more attempts were made to relocate him over the next year, but he never left.
Pineda told authorities that he had mainly covered crime and local politics since 2008. He complained of receiving threats from organized crime and politicians and began leaving names out of his stories.
In October 2016, officials from the unit met with Pineda again. He said he had changed homes and cars and had not received new threats. He declined to move to the government safe house because he said he would not be able to support his family. The unit decided to close his case.
Two weeks later, Pineda told them one of the Tequilero's hit men had called to tell him to be careful. Pineda said he was holed up in his house afraid to leave.
The unit again offered him and his family shelter outside the area, but he declined again and the case was closed.
Patricia Colchero, head of the interior ministry's human rights protection unit, said her entity had not found a way to protect Pineda if he would not leave the area.
"The area is very difficult and he was doing journalism calling out organized crime, calling out politicians who were tied to organized crime," Colchero said. "He received major threats."
Guerrero state security spokesman Roberto Alvarez Heredia called the Pineda "a model journalist" who "was very exposed" for his work reporting in a dangerous area.
According to the CPJ, at least 37 journalists have been killed in Mexico since 1992 for motives confirmed as directly related to their work. Forty-nine more were slain during the same period in circumstances that have not yet been fully explained.
"Mexico is clearly the worst, most dangerous place for journalists in the Western Hemisphere," Lauria said. "And what makes it worse is the impunity surrounding most of these cases that perpetuates a climate of violence where journalists are left wide open to attacks."
Ciudad Altamirano is in one of the most conflicted parts of Guerrero, an area where heroin-producing poppy crops are grown in a region disputed by several drug gangs.
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Associated Press writer Jose Antonio Rivera reported from Acapulco and Peter Orsi reported from Mexico City. AP writers Maria Verza and Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed.
NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - The world's first test-tube baby and America's first test-tube baby are going to meet face-to-face for the first time this year.
The Virginian-Pilot reports (http://bit.ly/2lDHyMg) that 38-year-old Louise Brown and 35-year-old Elizabeth Carr are scheduled to meet at a fertility conference in June in Chicago.
Brown became the world's first in vitro fertilization baby when she was born July 25, 1978, in Bristol, England.
Carr is the first IVF baby in the U.S. She was born Dec. 28, 1981, in Norfolk, Virginia.
Carr, who lives in Massachusetts and works for an organization that advocates for people with disabilities, said in a Facebook post that she's excited to meet Brown.
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Information from: The Virginian-Pilot, http://pilotonline.com
NORTH SOUND, Antigua (AP) - After Eoin Morgan's latest century, England squeezed the life out of the West Indies to win the opening one-day international of their cricket series by 45 runs on Friday.
Morgan's 10th ODI hundred anchored England to a competitive 296-6 after being sent in to bat.
The West Indies had to pull off its second highest run chase to win, and it was too much. The home side slumped to 39-3, then spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid, after a shaky start, drip fed runs. Halfway through the chase, West Indies' required run rate was at 8 an over and it was ultimately bowled for 251 in the 48th over.
England's captain Eoin Morgan celebrates scoring a century against West Indies during a one day international cricket match at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua, Friday, March 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)
The second match of three is on Sunday at the same Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
Morgan became the first England captain to score five ODI centuries, surpassing Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook. He came in after Joe Root was bowled for 4 and England was at 29-2 in the eighth over, and he stayed in until he was run out in the final over for 107.
He made the home side pay for dropping him on 4 and 69.
Morgan hit 10 boundaries, and his second six, over deep midwicket, brought up his second century in three ODIs. It took him 113 balls. He faced three more balls when Carlos Brathwaite, the bowler who missed the wicket on 4, pounced on his follow through and caught Morgan stranded.
Morgan enjoyed significant partnerships with Sam Billings (42) for the third wicket, with Ben Stokes (55) for the fifth, and with Ali (31 not out) for the sixth.
Stokes suffered at the hands of the West Indies the last time they met, in the World Twenty20 final a year ago in Kolkata, where he conceded four sixes to Brathwaite in the final over and West Indies won.
The reunion was an anticlimax. Stokes the batsman mustered only seven runs off 10 deliveries by Brathwaite, and didn't bowl. He wasn't needed.
The West Indies openers began well but it all unraveled from the 10th over, when Evin Lewis hit fast bowler Chris Woakes straight to a man on the midwicket fence. In the next over, Kieran Powell edged to point on 1 in his first ODI in three years, and in the over after that, Kraigg Brathwaite was caught in two minds, and sent a half-hearted pull to mid-on. The West Indies was 39-3 and Woakes was 2-10 off four overs.
Ali and Rashid then turned the screws.
Although they took only one wicket between them, they were responsible for the rising desperation in the home side's ranks.
Jason Mohammed scored a team-high 72 before he was run out by a nifty kick from Steven Finn, but the run rate rose past 9 and 10 while he was in.
Woakes and fellow fast bowler Liam Plunkett benefited with four wickets each.
England's captain Eoin Morgan screams during a one day international cricket match against West Indies at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua, Friday, March 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)
England's captain Eoin Morgan plays a shot against West Indies during a one day international cricket match at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua, Friday, March 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)
England's Ben Stokes plays a shot during a one day international cricket match agains West Indies at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua, Friday, March 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)
England's Steven Finn kicks the ball to hit the wicket and run out West Indies' Jason Mohammed during a one day international cricket match at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua, Friday, March 3, 2017. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)
PITTSBURGH (AP) - In a story March 3 about fraud charges against officials at a firm contracted to produce Humvee parts for the military, The Associated Press erroneously reported that a manager at the government facility that prosecutors said was defrauded, and a businessman friend, were also charged in the scheme. Former Defense Department employee Anthony Shaw, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, was charged in a separate case with receiving over $1 million in illegal gratuities from the firm's owners, and businessman David Buckner, of Warren, Michigan, with unlawfully acting as the intermediary in those payments. Though announced at the same time, the charges involving the gratuities were not related to the window fraud case.
A corrected version of the story is below:
Brothers accused of overcharging US for Humvee parts
Two brothers who own Pennsylvania military supplier accused of defrauding US of $6 million in contract for Humvee parts
By JOE MANDAK
Associated Press
PITTSBURGH (AP) - Two brothers who own a military-supply business have been charged with a $6 million scheme to overcharge the Defense Department for Humvee window kits, federal prosecutors said Friday.
Thomas Buckner, 65, of Gibsonia, and John Buckner, 67, of Lyndora, defrauded the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command out of the money with the help of a shell company, according to court documents filed Friday by federal prosecutors in Pittsburgh.
The Army agency, also known as TACOM, is based in Warren, Michigan.
In a separate case not related to the alleged window fraud scheme, Anthony Shaw, 55, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, a former civilian deputy project manager at TACOM, was charged with accepting more than $1 million in illegal gratuities from the brothers.
Defense attorneys for the five defendants didn't return calls or emails seeking comment on the charges.
Prosecutors filed the charges in criminal informations, documents that are typically used when defendants have agreed to plead guilty to the charges.
The window scheme worked this way, according to prosecutors' court filing:
The Buckners co-own Ibis Tek, a Butler company that had contracts to supply window kits for Humvees.
The brothers inflated their costs to manufacture the kits by creating another company called Alloy America. Instead of manufacturing the aluminum frames, Alloy America purchased them for $20 each from a Chinese firm, then created records to make it appear Ibis Tek had paid Alloy America $70 for each frame.
Ibis Tek then passed on the $70-per-frame cost to TACOM.
The Buckner brothers also sold scrap aluminum relating to the manufacture of the frames but kept the money. The Buckners and Ibis Tek were supposed to credit the scrap revenue to TACOM as a way of helping the government agency control costs.
In addition to charges of fraud, the brothers are accused of income tax evasion.
Ibis Tek's chief financial officer, Harry Kramer, 55, of Wexford, was charged with helping the brothers carry out the fraud scheme and filing false tax returns that understated Ibis Tek's income in 2009 and 2010.
The company itself was not charged with any violations. It was not immediately clear if it remains a government contractor. Nobody returned a call to the company Friday.
The Buckner brothers each face up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $1.5 million, while Kramer faces up to 16 years in prison and a $1.5 million fine
In the illegal gratuities case, the government alleged payments to Shaw were funneled through a Michigan motorcycle business, D & B Cycle Parts and Accessories. That business is owned by David Buckner, of Warren, Michigan, described as a friend of Shaw's who is not related to the Pennsylvania brothers.
Shaw faces up to 19 years in prison and a $1.25 million fine if convicted of receiving a gratuity as a public official, tax evasion and making false statements.
David Buckner faces up to three years in prison and a $250,000 fine on a charge of interfering with the Internal Revenue Service.
NEW YORK (AP) - The Latest on an arrest in connection with threats made to Jewish institutions nationwide and the Anti-Defamation League's headquarters in New York (all times local):
7 p.m.
A former journalist from St. Louis accused of making threats to at least eight Jewish community centers had been accused of bizarre behavior before.
Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, center, member of Congress's bipartisan task force combating anti-Semitism, speaks during a news conference addressing bomb treats against Jewish organizations and vandalism at Jewish cemeteries, Friday March 3, 2017, in New York. At background left is Jonathan Miller, NYPD deputy commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, and second from right is Arthur Schneier, senior rabbi at Park East Synagogue. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews)
Juan Thompson is facing a federal charge of cyberstalking an ex-girlfriend. Authorities say the threats were made in an effort to smear her. His supporters say he has no criminal record.
A reporter at an alternative weekly in St. Louis says he was subjected to social media harassment after writing about Thompson's firing from a news site for fabricating stories.
The Riverfront Times reporter Doyle Murphy says Thompson set up anonymous accounts on Twitter and other social media posing as a woman who claimed she had been sexually assaulted by Murphy. Murphy says he contacted Twitter but every time one fake account was taken down a new one popped up. He calls the harassment a "nightmare."
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4:55 p.m.
The Federal Communications Commission says Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer requested an emergency waiver to Jewish community centers and their phone carriers in the wake of threats nationwide.
The FCC said Friday that it will grant the waiver to allow the centers and carriers to track the numbers of callers who make threats, even if the caller tries to block the number.
Thirty-one-year-old Juan Thompson was arrested in St. Louis and accused of making at least eight of the scores of threats against Jewish institutions, including a bomb threat to New York's Anti-Defamation League. He appeared in court Friday.
Federal officials have been investigating 122 bomb threats called in to Jewish organizations in three dozen states since Jan. 9 as well as a rash of episodes of vandalism at Jewish cemeteries.
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4:20 p.m.
Missouri's governor is thanking law enforcers for their work in arresting a suspect in connection with threats against Jewish community centers nationwide.
Republican Gov. Eric Greitens says in a statement posted on Facebook that anti-Semitism has no place in Missouri.
Juan Thompson was arrested Friday in St. Louis on charges of making threats against Jewish institutions.
Authorities say the 31-year-old Thompson made the threats in an effort to harass a former girlfriend. They say some of the threats were made in the woman's name.
Greitens says it is shocking to learn that the "disgusting actions" might have originated in Missouri.
He says anyone who threatens religious institutions in the state will be found and brought to justice.
Thompson's lawyer declined to comment in court.
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3:40 p.m.
A former journalist accused of making threats to at least eight Jewish institutions as well as to the Anti-Defamation League's New York office has appeared before a federal judge.
Juan Thompson was handcuffed and wearing brown pants and a blue collarless shirt Friday in St. Louis. He politely answered questions.
He was charged with cyberstalking a former ex-girlfriend and was held without bail. Authorities say the threats were made in an effort to smear her.
Magistrate Judge David Noce asked if Thompson needed a public defender to represent him further. Thompson said he had "a little money" to hire a lawyer.
There were at least a half dozen supporters present who would say only that Thompson's record was clean. His lawyer refused to comment.
His next hearing is March 8.
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3:20 p.m.
A U.S. official says the Federal Communications Commission will grant an emergency waiver that allows Jewish community centers and their phone carriers to track the numbers of callers who make threats.
The official told The Associated Press the agency would issue the waiver that would allow JCCs nationwide and their phone carriers to obtain the phone numbers even when the caller tries to block the number.
The official was not authorized to speak publicly about the waiver and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.
The waiver follows a series of threats made to Jewish Community Centers across the United States. On Friday, federal agents arrested a man suspected of making threats to at least eight Jewish institutions nationwide and the Anti-Defamation League's headquarters in New York City.
- Associated Press writer Michael Balsamo in Los Angeles contributed to this report.
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2:35 p.m.
Jewish community leaders have met with the FBI director after a man was arrested in threats against at least eight Jewish institutions nationwide and the Anti-Defamation League's headquarters in New York City.
The JCC Association of North America says Friday's meeting included discussion of threats directed against Jewish institutions in the past two months.
The association says the Jewish community is deeply grateful for the FBI's "extraordinary effort." It says representatives left the meeting "with the highest confidence" that the agency will work to resolve the matter soon.
Authorities say 31-year-old Juan Thompson made the threats in an effort to harass and vilify his former girlfriend. They say some of the threats were made in the woman's name.
Thompson is due to appear in court in Missouri later Friday.
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12:55 p.m.
A Missouri police official says the man accused of threatening eight Jewish institutions and the Anti-Defamation League will also be questioned about the desecration of a Jewish cemetery.
Authorities say 31-year-old Juan Thompson made the threats in an effort to harass and vilify his former girlfriend. They say some of the threats against the institutions were made in the woman's name.
University City police Lt. Fredrick Lemons tells the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that detectives will question Juan Thompson about 154 headstones toppled at Chesed Shel Emeth (heh-SEHD' shehl EH'-meth) Cemetery in the St. Louis suburb.
Vice President Mike Pence visited the cemetery after the February vandalism and spoke out against acts of hatred, prejudice, violence and anti-Semitism.
There was no information on an attorney who could comment on Thompson's behalf.
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12:30 p.m.
The Anti-Defamation League says it's relieved and gratified after an arrest in connection with threats made against its New York headquarters and at least eight Jewish institutions nationwide.
The ADL said in a statement Friday that Juan Thompson, a fired former journalist, had been on its radar ever since he fabricated a story about Charleston, South Carolina, church shooter Dylann Roof.
Authorities say Thompson made the threats in an effort to harass and vilify his former girlfriend. They say some of the threats were made in the woman's name.
Thompson was arrested in St. Louis and will appear in federal court in Missouri on Friday afternoon on a charge of cyberstalking. There was no information on an attorney who could comment on his behalf.
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10:10 a.m.
An arrest has been made in connection with threats made to at least eight Jewish institutions nationwide and the Anti-Defamation League's headquarters in New York City.
Federal authorities in New York said Friday that Juan Thompson has been arrested.
According to a complaint, the threats were made to harass a former girlfriend. The caller used the victim's name while making some of the threats.
The phone threat to the ADL's Manhattan headquarters was made Feb. 22.
Thompson was expected to appear in a Missouri court later Friday on charges that include cyberstalking.
There was no immediate information on attorney who could comment on his behalf.
In this image taken from video, Oren Segal, Co-Director of the Anti-Defamation League's Center on Extremism, addresses the media at a news conference at ADL Headquarters in New York, Friday, March 3, 2017. Segal commented on the arrest of a Missouri man in connection with threats made to at least eight Jewish institutions nationwide and the Anti-Defamation League's headquarters in New York City. He also commented on the recent rise of anti-Semitic activity in general. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - Two former Utah attorneys general who avoided convictions in a bribery case that was one of the highest-profile scandals in state history said Friday they were naive and made missteps but that the justice system got it right in not convicting them.
The Utah Democratic party chair, meanwhile, said he worries that other Republican leaders in the mostly-GOP state will now believe they are above the law after seeing how John Swallow and Mark Shurtleff avoided prison time.
A jury found Swallow not guilty Thursday night of nine counts that included bribery, obstruction of justice and evidence tampering. Shurtleff's case was dismissed last summer.
Former Utah Attorney General John Swallow talks to members of the media after his trial Thursday, March 2, 2017, in Salt Lake City. Swallow was acquitted Thursday of bribery and evidence tampering charges in one of the highest-profile scandals in state history. (Chris Detrick/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP)
Prosecutors accused Swallow and Shurtleff of hanging a virtual "for sale" sign on the door to the state's top law enforcement office by taking campaign donations and gifts like beach vacations in exchange for favorable treatment.
The arrests of Swallow and Shurtleff culminated a shocking fall from grace for two men who vowed to root out fraud and uphold the laws of Utah as they served a combined 13 years as attorney general.
"I was naive and did some things I wish I hadn't have done, but nothing with any intent to be dishonorable in any way," said Swallow on KSL Radio's "Doug Wright Show" (http://bit.ly/2mjJGgn). "I believe the exoneration last night was an exoneration for his (Shurtleff's) administration and my administration."
Shurtleff, who was state's attorney general for more than a dozen years until his term ended at the end of 2012, said he also feels vindicated by the verdict. Though he wasn't on trial, his name was peppered throughout the trial as prosecutors told jurors he and Swallow worked together to carry out a "pay for play scheme."
Shurtleff said he realizes he was naive and arrogant and put himself in a position where convicted felons could make up stories about their interactions even if he never changed how he dealt with them.
Shurtleff said he plans to file state and federal lawsuits alleging abuse of power against authorities who investigated and charged him in the bribery case. He also plans to file a lawsuit on behalf of his family for the trauma they endured during a search warrant execution in the lead up to his arrest.
"It's not about getting revenge," Shurtleff said. "I'm just shocked and appalled at the unethical conduct."
But Utah Democratic Party Chairman Peter Corroon remains skeptical. He said the jury's acquittal of Swallow and prosecution's dismissal of Shurtleff's case doesn't mean they didn't commit ethical violations. Corroon still questions why the two top lawmen were associating at all with people like that.
He says the root problem is that Republicans dominate Utah's political leadership, creating a "one-party system" lacking in checks and balances. Swallow and Shurtleff are Republicans.
"The verdict gives license to the Republicans to believe that they are beyond the law, which is troubling," Corroon said.
Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said in a statement that it was a complex case where jurors were asked to consider matters that weren't black and white but "various shades of gray."
"This case fell squarely into the latter category," said Gill, a Democrat who repeatedly refuted allegations from Swallow and Shurtleff that charges were politically motivated.
Swallow resigned in late 2013 after spending nearly 11 months dogged by bribery and corruption allegations that emerged less than a week after he took the oath of office. Swallow adamantly denied breaking any laws and said he stepped down because the scrutiny had become too much for him and his family.
Shurtleff, who called it "twisted justice" in a tweet he sent out after the verdict was announced, echoed Swallow's comments by saying people should not believe everything authorities say.
"Be aware that there are those in the law enforcement and criminal justice system who will abuse your rights," Shurtleff said.
Former Utah Attorney General John Swallow listens, center, listens alongside his defense team, as the verdict is read during his trial in Salt Lake City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Swallow was acquitted Thursday of bribery and evidence tampering charges in one of the highest-profile scandals in state history. (Francisco Kjolseth/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool)
Former Utah Attorney General John Swallow talks to members of the media after his trial Thursday, March 2, 2017, in Salt Lake City. Swallow was acquitted Thursday of bribery and evidence tampering charges in one of the highest-profile scandals in state history. (Chris Detrick/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP)
Former Utah Attorney General John Swallow listens, center, listens alongside his defense team, as the verdict is read during his trial in Salt Lake City, Thursday, March 2, 2017. Swallow was acquitted Thursday of bribery and evidence tampering charges in one of the highest-profile scandals in state history. (Francisco Kjolseth/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool)
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on President Donald Trump (all times local):
2:45 p.m.
President Donald Trump is praising a Florida Catholic school as the kind of school that disadvantaged children should be able to choose for their education.
President Donald Trump and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos pose with fourth graders Janayah Chatelier, 10, left, Landon Fritz, 10, after they received cards from the children, during a tour of Saint Andrew Catholic School, Friday, March 3, 2017, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Trump visited St. Andrew Catholic School in Florida on Friday and told its principal that "the love you have for what you do is really fantastic."
The president was joined by Education Secretary Betsy DeVos. Trump repeated a line from his address to Congress on Tuesday, saying, "Education is the civil rights issue of our time."
He singled out Denisha Merriweather, a former failing student who turned her life around once she chose a new school, saying, "We want millions more to have the chance to achieve the success that you're achieving."
Trump also praised Florida, noting that he captured it in last fall's election.
Saint Andrew Catholic School principal Latrina Peters-Gipson listens at right as President Donald Trump speaks during a round table discussion at the school, Friday, March 3, 2017, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
President Donald Trump talks to children in Jane Jones fourth grade class during a tour of Saint Andrew Catholic School, Friday, March 3, 2017, in Orlando, Fla. At left is Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Education Secretary Betsy DeVos listens at left as President Donald Trump speaks during a round table discussion at Saint Andrew Catholic School, Friday, March 3, 2017, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
President Donald Trump, accompanied by, from left, Florida Gov. Rick Scott, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, and Saint Andrew Catholic School principal Latrina Peters-Gipson, speaks during a tour of Saint Andrew Catholic School, Friday, March 3, 2017, at Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
HOUSTON (AP) - Two MS-13 gang members from El Salvador, both in the United States illegally, held three teenage girls against their will and killed one of them in a satanic ritual, authorities in Houston said Friday.
Miguel Alvarez-Flores, 22, and Diego Hernandez-Rivera, 18, have been arrested and charged with aggravated kidnapping and murder - both first-degree felonies punishable by up to life imprisonment. Bonds totaling $300,000 have been set for each, but immigration detainers will keep both behind bars.
The 15-year-old girl's body was found Feb. 16 with gunshot wounds to the face and chest.
Two known MS-13 gang members, formerly of El Salvador, Miguel Alvarez-Flores, left, and Diego Hernandez-Rivera appear in court Thursday, March 2, 2017, in Houston. The pair, who had a Satanic shrine in their Houston apartment, are suspects in the killing of one teenager and the kidnapping of another. (Steve Gonzales/Houston Chronicle via AP)
Homicide detective Sgt. Chris Sturdivant said the girl's identity has not been officially determined but that investigators are confident they know who she is - a girl reported missing in January in nearby Jersey Village, Texas.
The captives were three "young, impressionable women" ranging in age from 14 to 16 who succumbed to the allure of gang life before being taken to an apartment and held there against their will, Sturdivant said. The 14-year-old girl told investigators that they were fed drugs and alcohol and forced to have sex.
The girl said the 15-year-old was killed in a satanic ritual because she had struck the gang's shrine to a satanic saint, according to investigators.
She told investigators that Alvarez-Flores made a peace offering to the figure in the form of a cigarette.
"He returned from the statue and told the entire group that the beast did not want a material offering but wanted a soul," state District Judge Maria Jackson said during the men's initial court appearance Wednesday.
The 14-year-old said she later awoke to find the 15-year-old gone, according to investigators.
The case comes as President Donald Trump is promoting concerns over criminal immigrants in the United States illegally. He has announced that he plans to create an agency, called Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement or VOICE, to serve victims of immigrant crime and their relatives. It will be part of the Department of Homeland Security.
"The majority of the MS-13 members we come into contact with are here illegally," Sturdivant said.
Attorneys for Alvarez-Flores and Hernandez-Rivera did not immediately return calls Friday night. Sturdivant said both men admitted their involvement in the abductions and killing after their arrests Monday. An FBI multijurisdictional anti-gang task force continues to investigate, and Sturdivant said authorities are seeking other gang members who were possibly involved in the crimes.
MS-13, also called Mara Salvatrucha, is believed to have been founded in Los Angeles in the mid-1980s by immigrants fleeing civil war in El Salvador. It is now a major international criminal enterprise.
DETROIT (AP) - French carmaker PSA Group is expected to announce Monday that it has purchased General Motors' money-losing European car business, according to two people briefed on the matter.
The announcement could still be delayed by last-minute snags but is likely to be made in France, said one of the people. Both people requested anonymity because the deal hasn't been formally announced.
The purchase price and exact terms of how the Opel and Vauxhall brands would be transferred to PSA were not available Friday afternoon. But a research-sharing agreement is likely to be included because numerous GM vehicles are at least partly engineered in Germany.
A PSA official on Friday would say only that "no communication on Opel is expected until Monday." Both companies confirmed last month that they were in talks about a sale.
GM has not turned a full-year profit in Europe since 1999, and since then has lost billions battling high labor costs and an intensely competitive auto sales market. The company has said it hopes to break even there next year.
PSA Chairman Carlos Tavares said in February that he hopes to create a "European car champion" with the combination and pledged to work with governments and unions that are worried about job cuts.
"Opel has been making red ink for 10 years, and burning approximately 1 billion in cash every year," Tavares said. "We believe we can help."
The move would give PSA access to technology and a larger scale to spread out engineering and other costs.
Pulling out of Western Europe, the world's third-largest auto market, is consistent with GM's plans to focus on bigger profit margins rather than sales and market share.
It's not clear whether GM would leave Europe entirely or still be able to sell some Chevrolet or Cadillac models.
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Charlton reported from Paris.
NEW YORK (AP) - Arnold Schwarzenegger said Friday that he's through with "The New Celebrity Apprentice," and he's blaming President Donald Trump for the television reality show's recent poor performance.
The former California governor said he wouldn't mind working with NBC and producer Mark Burnett again "on a show that doesn't have this baggage."
Schwarzenegger replaced the president as host of the show, but Trump remained as an executive producer. The president taunted Schwarzenegger for the show's recent poor performance in the ratings, even mocking him during an address at the National Prayer Breakfast.
This Dec. 9, 2016 image released by NBC shows Arnold Schwarzenegger, the new boss of "The New Celebrity Apprentice," at a press junket in Universal City, Calif. Schwarzenegger said Friday that he's through with "The New Celebrity Apprentice," and he's blaming President Donald Trump for the television reality show's recent poor performance. The former California governor said he wouldn't mind working with NBC and producer Mark Burnett again "on a show that doesn't have this baggage." (Paul Drinkwater/NBC via AP)
The show, which wrapped up its 15th season last month, averaged fewer than 5 million viewers per episode. That was lower than any other incarnation except for a 2010 Trump-hosted edition without celebrities, and the most poorly-rated edition among the youthful viewers NBC cares most about, the Nielsen company said.
Even if he were asked again, Schwarzenegger said he wouldn't want to do it.
"With Trump being involved in the show, people have a bad taste and don't want to participate as a spectator or as a sponsor or in any other way support the show," he said in an interview with the Empire website. "It's a very divisive period now, and I think this show got caught up in all that division."
Shannon Coulter, co-founder of the #GrabYourWallet Trump protest, agreed. The effort aims to spur consumer boycotts of companies doing business with the Trump family, including sponsors of "Apprentice."
"My impression is that 'The New Celebrity Apprentice's' poor performance has everything to do with Donald's continued presence and the accompanying 'baggage' Mr. Schwarzenegger mentioned," she said in an emailed comment. "We applaud Mr. Schwarzenegger's decision to leave the show and to distance himself from the toxic Trump brand."
After Schwarzenegger's debut in January, Trump took to Twitter to report the show had been swamped "in comparison to the ratings machine, DJT" - using his initials.
Schwarzenegger shot back on social media that he hoped Trump would work for the American people as aggressively as he did for his ratings. The actor, like Trump a Republican, did not endorse Trump and said during last fall's campaign that he would not vote for him.
When "The New Celebrity Apprentice" ended its season last month, Trump tweeted that Schwarzenegger "did a really bad job as governor of California and even worse on The Apprentice, but at least he tried hard."
NBC had no immediate comment about whether the show would return with a new host.
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AP Television Writer Lynn Elber in Los Angeles contributed to this report.
LAS VEGAS (AP) - A man accused of attacking a mannequin that Las Vegas police positioned to resemble a homeless person following two slayings remained jailed Friday.
A judge has set bail at $50,000 for Shane Schindler, who is charged with one count of carrying a concealed weapon, the Las Vegas Review-Journal (http://bit.ly/2lnlDOa ) reported. Schindler was arrested last week following the Feb. 22 incident.
Schindler's arrest report says police set up the mannequin resembling a sleeping man after detectives had no leads on the slayings of two homeless men earlier this year in downtown Las Vegas. Authorities hadn't ruled out the possibility of "thrill kills" and placed the blanket-covered mannequin on the same spot where one of the two men was killed.
The report says Schindler, 30, approached the "decoy," looked around for traffic and struck it with a 4-pound engineer's hammer he had in a bag. Surveillance video captured the incident.
According to the report, Schindler told police he "knew it was a mannequin" before hitting it. But police dispute that statement.
"The decoy mannequin was staged in a manner which would have made it impossible for Schindler to have determined the mannequin was not a human being before he struck," according to the arrest report. "Schindler swung the hammer using both arms to generate maximum force to his blow."
Deputy public defender Ashley Sisolak described Schindler's bail as excessive. She said her "client has proclaimed his innocence, and I look forward to fighting these allegations."
Daniel Aldape, 46, and David Dunn, 60, were bludgeoned to death within a month's time earlier this year. Both had suffered apparent head trauma.
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Information from: Las Vegas Review-Journal, http://www.lvrj.com
NEW YORK (AP) - President Donald Trump, his administration under siege for contacts with Russian officials, is calling for "an immediate investigation" into Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer's own ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump's evidence? A 14-year-old photo of Schumer and Putin holding coffee and doughnuts in a New York City gas station.
The president on Friday tweeted a photo of the two men, calling for a probe into Schumer's "ties to Russia and Putin" and called the New York senator "A total hypocrite!" Trump did not say where the photo came from, but Schumer quickly pointed out that it was taken in 2003 when Putin ventured to New York to celebrate the opening of a Russian-owned Lukoil gas station on Manhattan's west side.
FILE - In this Sept. 26, 2003, file photo, Russian President Vladimir Putin, center, and Sen. Charles Schumer D-N.Y., second from right, are escorted through New York's first Lukoil gas station by Lukoil President Vagit Alekperov, left, in New York City. Lukoil is the giant Russian oil company. Putin later traveled to meet with President George W. Bush at the Camp David presidential retreat. President Donald Trump, his administration under siege for contacts with Russian officials, is calling for "an immediate investigation" into Schumer tie's to Russian Putin. Trump's evidence? A 14-year-old photo of Schumer and Putin holding coffee and doughnuts in a New York City gas station. (AP Photo/Scout Tufankjian, File)
Several news organizations covered that event, which drew far more political star power than the average gas station opening.
Schumer, in his own tweet, said he would "happily talk" under oath about his meeting with Putin, which took place "in full view of press and public." He then challenged Trump to do the same. And, a short time later, he posted a follow-up in which he further poked fun at the photo, noting "And for the record, they were Krispy Kreme donuts."
On the same trip to the United States in 2003, Putin traveled to Camp David, Maryland, where he met with Republican President George W. Bush and the two held a joint news conference.
Trump's tweet came just hours after the conservative website Drudge Report made the photo its lead image. And that was a day after the photo was unearthed by the pro-Trump blog Gateway Pundit, which ran it with the headline "Where's the outrage?"
Trump targeted congressional Democrats for their encounters with Russians over the years even though the party's criticism of Attorney General Jeff Sessions centered on his failure to acknowledge his meetings when questioned at his Senate confirmation hearing and in written responses to the Judiciary Committee.
"I think he was asked a pretty straightforward question at his committee hearing and I do think he should resign," Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., said in an interview.
Trump also tweeted Friday about House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, who was among the first to call for Sessions to resign.
In his tweet, Trump linked to a 2010 photo in which Pelosi and other lawmakers, including Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, now the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, are shown meeting with Russian officials, including then-President Dmitry Medvedev and Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Trump demanded an investigation of the House minority leader. Pelosi had initially denied ever meeting Kislyak; her spokeswoman later clarified that they never had a one-on-one meeting.
Pelosi then needled Trump by saying he didn't "know the difference" between an official meeting photographed by the press and a "secret" meeting that Sessions "lied about under oath."
It is not improper for elected officials to meet with foreign diplomats.
Trump's White House has been battered by questions about his links to Russia, quashing any sort of political momentum he had earned from his highly praised address to Congress earlier this week.
Sessions on Thursday said he would recuse himself from Russia probes after it was revealed that he had conversed with Russia's ambassador twice during last year's campaign, a contradiction of his testimony during his Senate confirmation hearings. But that move has not satisfied many Democrats, who have called for Sessions' resignation. They also demand an independent investigation into the Trump campaign's ties to Russia.
Several other Trump allies have also faced questions about their ties to Russia, including former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who was ousted last month for misleading White House officials about his conversations with Kislyak before Trump took office.
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Donna Cassata contributed reporting from Washington.
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Follow Lemire on Twitter at http://twitter.com/@JonLemire
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US attorney general Jeff Sessions has recused himself from an investigation into any ties between Moscow and President Donald Trumps 2016 campaign after revelations that he talked with Russias ambassador to the United States twice during Mr Trumps successful bid for the White House.
Mr Sessions had faced mounting pressure from both parties on Capitol Hill that he step aside or resign.
Here is a look at the known contacts between Trump associates and Russia:
Jeff Sessions
Jeff Sessions
The justice department acknowledged on Wednesday that the attorney general twice spoke with the Russian envoy when Mr Sessions was a senator and involved in Trumps presidential campaign. Those discussions with ambassador Sergey Kislyak, first reported in The Washington Post, seem to contradict Mr Sessionss sworn statements during his confirmation hearings when asked what he would do if anyone affiliated with the campaign had been in contact with Russia. Mr Sessions said in a statement on Thursday he never met with any Russian officials to discuss issues of the campaign. Two top Democratic politicians have since called on Mr Sessions to resign.
And we need Attorney General Jeff Sessions who should have never been confirmed in the first place to resign. We need it now. Elizabeth Warren (@SenWarren) March 2, 2017
No spin from Trump admin can hide the fact that Sessions lied under oath and committed perjury about Russian ties. Sessions must resign. Tom Perez (@TomPerez) March 2, 2017
Michael Flynn
Mr Trumps national security adviser resigned on February 13 after reports he misled White House officials about his contacts with Russias ambassador to the US a situation Mr Trump was told about soon after he took office. Mr Flynn eventually lost the presidents trust after he said at first that he did not discuss sanctions with the Russian envoy during the transition, but later admitted he may have done so. Separately, in 2015, Mr Flynn gave a paid speech in Moscow and sat next to Russian President Vladimir Putin at a dinner.
Trump Organisation
Mr Flynn received a Ukrainian peace plan involving the Russian Crimea dispute just before he resigned. That plan was cobbled together by pro-Russian Ukrainian politician Andrii Artemenko and two men with ties to Mr Trumps namesake company longtime Trump lawyer Michael Cohen and former Trump Organisation business adviser Felix Sater, who confirmed the arrangement to the Associated Press. Mr Sater, a Russian-born former Mafia informant, was named by Mr Trump as an adviser to the Trump Organisation as recently as 2010, even though Mr Sater had been convicted in a major stock fraud scheme.
Paul Manafort
MUST WATCH: Paul Manafort doesn't sound very convincing here.
Interview was July 27, 2016 pic.twitter.com/N46Y2DOAJX Yashar Ali (@yashar) March 2, 2017
Mr Trumps former campaign chairman resigned in August after the AP disclosed his firms covert lobbying efforts on behalf of the former pro-Russian ruling political party in Ukraine. Those efforts, which occurred before Mr Manafort joined the Trump campaign, included attempts to get positive press coverage of Ukrainian officials and efforts to undercut sympathy for Yulia Tymoshenko, an imprisoned rival of then-Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych. More recently, The New York Times reported that Mr Manafort and other members of Mr Trumps campaign had repeated contacts with Russian intelligence officials; Mr Manafort said he had never knowingly spoken to Russian intelligence officers.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump
Mr Trump said during the election he did not have any deals in Russia, but he held the 2013 Miss Universe Pageant in Moscow. Mr Trump has been contradictory when describing his personal relationship with Mr Putin, insisting during the campaign he had no relationship with the Russian leader and no recollection of ever meeting him. But several times in prior years, he has said the opposite. Mr Trump has had conversations with Mr Putin since the election, speaking to him shortly after he won the presidency and again eight days after he took office.
Uber London Ltd has lost its High Court challenge over new language requirement rules planned for private-hire vehicles.
Opponents of the proposed Transport for London (TfL) package, which includes a requirement that drivers undertake tests in reading and writing basic English, claim it will lead to indirect racial discrimination and threaten the livelihood of around 30,000 drivers.
The company, which has a private-hire vehicle (PHV) operators licence, launched the action with three individually licensed drivers.
The Uber app (Lauren Hurley/PA)
On Friday in London, Mr Justice Mitting said TfL was entitled to require drivers to demonstrate compliance with the English language requirement and there was not any practical alternative.
The judge went on to quash other requirements relating to a telephone service to deal with complaints and insurance.
Tom de la Mare QC, for Uber and the drivers Hungarian national Sandor Balogh, Bulgarian Nikolay Dimitrov, and Imran Khan from Pakistan told the judge that the language requirement would over three years contribute to 70,000 applicants failing to obtain a licence.
The changes, involving insurance and the provision of call centre facilities, were also likely to lead to additional costs for PHV operators running into millions of pounds, he said.
The proposals would have a disproportionate impact on drivers from countries where English was not generally spoken and give rise to indirect discrimination on grounds of race and nationality.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (Mark Runnacles/PA)
TfL argued that the requirements were vital to ensure passenger safety and to raise standards.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: Im delighted that the courts have today backed my plans to drive up standards and improve passenger safety in London.
Drivers being able to speak English and understand information from passengers and licensing requirements is a vital part of ensuring passengers get the high standard of service they need and deserve.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are to make an official visit to Poland and Germany, Kensington Palace has announced.
William and Kate will tour the two European countries in July this year at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
The Duke and Duchess will make an official visit to Poland and Germany this July at the request of The Foreign and Commonwealth Office. pic.twitter.com/zf4pPyD5g7 The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 3, 2017
The royal couple are already planning to visit the continent with a two-day trip to Paris scheduled for later this month.
William travelled to Germany last summer, visiting Dusseldorf for a series of events honouring the role of British armed forces based in the country.
During a gala event, where the Duke gave a speech alongside Chancellor Angela Merkel, William claimed the depth of Britains friendship with Germany would not change after Brexit.
The Duke of Cambridge and German Chancellor Angela Merkel
The British monarchy has close ties with the European country, as a succession of sovereigns from George I, born in what is now modern Germany and who acceded to the throne in 1714, to William IV, who died in 1830, were also rulers of Hanover in Germany.
The 300th anniversary of what is known as the personal union was celebrated in 2014, and the year before the milestone, princesses Beatrice and Eugenie visited Germany to highlight the event.
During a state visit to Germany in 2015, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh visited the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp to mark the 70th anniversary of its liberation by British forces.
Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Kate has yet to make an official trip to Germany and the Cambridges have not toured Poland before on behalf of the Government.
Kensington Palace said full details of the visit would be released at a later date.
It is not thought William and Kate will be taking their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte with them to Germany and Poland.
Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale has been suspended for two LaLiga matches for his dismissal against Las Palmas on Wednesday night.
The Wales international was shown a straight red card in the 3-3 home draw for a second-half kick and shove at opponent Jonathan Viera.
Bale will miss Reals LaLiga clashes with Eibar on Saturday and Real Betis next weekend. He has also been fined 600 euros (517) and the club 700 euros (604).
Real Madrid unleashes a shot at goal
Real have 10 working days to appeal the decision.
Eoin Morgans 10th one-day international hundred was the key to Englands 45-run victory at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium as they went 1-0 up in their three-match series against West Indies.
Morgan (107), dropped on just four, was patient and resourceful to help eke out a total of 296 for six - which proved beyond the hosts on a slow surface.
Liam Plunkett with a career-best four for 40 and Chris Woakes (four for 47) did most damage to a chase undermined when West Indies first three wickets fell for the addition of only three runs after they had first reached 36 for none.
England win the opening ODI by 45 runs! Woakes and Plunkett prove the difference with the ball after Morgan's excellent #WIvENG pic.twitter.com/g2MOZGsxof England Cricket (@englandcricket) March 3, 2017
Jason Mohammed (72) responded with his maiden ODI half-century, in his third innings - putting on 82 in 14 overs with Jonathan Carter (52) - but England kept their composure to stay on top.
Morgans fine effort to overturn the disadvantage of losing the toss after a start delayed by heavy morning showers was therefore put into favourable context as his team began their final approach to this summers Champions Trophy with a reassuring success.
Eoin Morgan: "We produced everything we spoke about before the game. We've set a benchmark & have to continue on this upward curve." #WIvENG pic.twitter.com/oyWZ5uCrP3 England Cricket (@englandcricket) March 3, 2017
The captain figured in partnerships of 67 with Sam Billings (52), 110 with Ben Stokes (55) and 53 with Moeen Ali after coming to the crease at a sticky 29 for two.
England captain Eoin Morgan celebrates scoring a century
Morgan had to contend with a sluggish pitch and after being unperturbed when hit on the StemGuard by a Shannon Gabriel bouncer, he was rewarded with his second hundred in his last three ODI innings, completed with his second six over long-on off Carlos Brathwaite to add to 10 fours from 112 balls.
100 - Eoin Morgan has now recorded 100s in two of his last three ODI innings for @englandcricket. Leadership. OptaJim (@OptaJim) March 3, 2017
England had lost Jason Roy and Joe Root early to Gabriel near action-replay dismissals, the second a variation involving splayed off and middle-stumps rather than lbw but both batsmen defeated by marginal low bounce, a hint of movement and pace.
There was no cost for Jason Holders failure to hold a return chance from Roy on 13 but when Kieran Powell put down a straightforward slip catch, Morgans survival proved much more significant.
Billings unsurprisingly struggled as the new ball played plenty of tricks.
West Indies' wicket keeper Shai Hope misses a catch under the look of England batsman Sam Billings
He then played well for his near run-a-ball 50 but was rightly cross with himself for finding the man in the classic off-spinners position at straight midwicket.
Jos Buttler was promoted ahead of Stokes but could not muster his first significant score of the year, well-caught on 14 by Carter diving to his right at slip for Ashley Nurses second wicket.
Stokes was circumspect in his first international innings since sealing a record-breaking 1.7million Indian Premier League deal, taking 26 balls to reach double-figures but going on to make his first boundary from his 44th delivery Englands first six, over long-on off Mohammed at the end of the 40th over.
England's Ben Stokes plays a shot on his way to a half century
By then, there had been a second escape for Morgan this time on 69, when Shai Hope failed to gather a stumping chance off Mohammed and Stokes might also have gone but instead counted another leg-side six off Gabriel when Kraigg Brathwaite over-balanced beyond the rope and dropped the ball.
Stokes accelerated to his sixth 50 in his last nine ODI attempts but was caught at long-on, aiming for a fourth six.
50 up for Stokesy! Off just 56 balls, it's his 9th ODI half-century! England 235-4 with 6 to go
Follow LIVE: https://t.co/fXgJ7ebpzP pic.twitter.com/l53JarIzwf England Cricket (@englandcricket) March 3, 2017
Morgan saw his job through, until he was run-out with four balls remaining as 100 runs came in the last 10 overs of Englands necessarily back-loaded innings.
England did well there, after losing a tough toss. Without their first-choice attack, and better conditions for Windies, could be tight? David Clough (@DavidBClough) March 3, 2017
The gameplan for West Indies reply was to follow a similar method. But Brathwaite and Evin Lewis each holed out naively off Woakes - and Powell paid for closing the face in Plunketts first over.
4 - @Liam628 has just taken his best ever ODI figures for @englandcricket (4-40). Stellar. pic.twitter.com/P84AI3d5sZ OptaJim (@OptaJim) March 3, 2017
Hope and Mohammed put on 69 for the fourth wicket.
Then after the wicketkeeper cut Adil Rashid aerially to point, Mohammed and Carter kept England guessing with their twin 50s until the left-hander fell to a crucial, tumbling catch by Roy at deep square-leg off Plunkett.
Mohammed was still up for the chase only to be run-out by Steven Finn, kicking the ball on to the stumps in his follow-through to prevent a scampered single in the Windies eventual 251 all out in the 48th over.
By Huw Jones and Marc Jones
LONDON, March 2 (Reuters) - Banks based in Britain seeking to do business in the European Union after Brexit should apply early for a licence to set up actual operations and not "empty shells", European Central Bank supervisor Sabine Lautenschlaeger said on Thursday.
In the strongest comments yet on the subject from an ECB official, Lautenschlaeger warned lenders in Britain not to circumvent rules.
She declined to say how many staff a new banking operation should have, saying it would be looked at on a "case-by-case" basis.
She expected many of the 40 banks in Britain that currently serve continental customers to ask the ECB for a licence, and urged them to get in touch sooner rather than later.
"I do not see the ECB issuing banking licences to empty shell companies," Lautenschlaeger, who sits on the ECB's executive board, said in London.
"Our objective is to make the banking system safe and sound. I therefore expect banks which are seeking a licence in the euro area to meet our standards. There will be no race to the bottom in banking supervision," she said.
Weighing in on the contentious issue of keeping euro derivatives clearing in Britain, Lautenschlaeger said ECB consent would depend on whether the new, post-Brexit legal framework offered an unchanged level of involvement for the ECB, and ensured financial stability in the euro zone.
London dominates the clearing of derivatives denominated in euros, and the ECB is a member of the colleges of supervisors from different jurisdictions which oversees them.
Lautenschlaeger said that apart from remaining in supervisory colleges of euro clearers in London, other, unspecified conditions would have to be met which will depend on what sort of trading deal Britain and the EU agree after Brexit.
An attempt by the ECB to shift euro clearing to the euro zone was blocked by the EU court, but British Prime Minister Theresa May has said the UK will no longer come under the court after Brexit.
Banks in Britain that plan to permanently opt for "back-to-back" - trades transacted on the continent being booked in London to cut costs - will be disappointed, she said.
"This is not about a full ban of back-to-back booking. We rather aim at ensuring both an adequate local management of all material risks and the resolvability of the euro area entity," she said.
"Needless to say that I would certainly not accept banks booking all exposures with the euro area entity while having their risk management and internal control systems outside the euro area," she added.
Some banks are thinking of complementing or even replacing their licensed subsidiaries with investment firms or branches, which are supervised by national watchdogs or not supervised as banks, she said.
But regulators in Britain supervise such large firms as banks, and EU rules could be changed to allow its regulators to do likewise, she said.
"The current review of the European banking rules might provide an opportunity to do so," Lautenschlaeger said. (Additional reporting by Balazs Koranyi in Frankfurt; Editing by Robin Pomeroy and Ken Ferris)
KUALA LUMPUR, March 3 (Reuters) - Malaysia condemned the use of VX, the super toxic nerve agent that killed the estranged half-brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in a Kuala Lumpur airport last month, as authorities on Friday prepared to deport a North Korean suspect.
Kim Jong Nam was murdered on Feb. 13 at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, where he was assaulted by two women who allegedly smeared his face with VX, a chemical classified by the United Nations as a weapon of mass destruction.
"The Ministry strongly condemns the use of such a chemical weapon by anyone, anywhere and under any circumstances. Its use at a public place could have endangered the general public," it said in a statement.
The foreign ministry said it was in close contact with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, an inter-governmental organisation based in the Netherlands, regarding the incident.
"Malaysia does not produce, stockpile, import, export or use any Schedule 1 toxic chemicals including VX, and has made annual declarations to that effect to the OPCW," the statement said.
Relations between Malaysia and North Korea, who have maintained friendly ties for decades, have soured since the killing of Kim Jong Nam at the airport two weeks ago.
North Korea's envoy to Malaysia has said earlier that police investigations in the case cannot be trusted. North Korea has not accepted that the dead man is Kim Jong Nam, and said on Thursday that their citizen may have died of a heart attack.
South Korean intelligence and U.S. officials say the murder was an assassination organised by North Korean agents, though the only suspects charged in the case so far are an Indonesian woman and a Vietnamese woman.
A North Korean suspect held over the killing was released from a detention centre on Friday, and driven away in a police convoy, a Reuters witness said.
Ri Jong Chol, who had been detained a few days after the killing was taken to the immigration office to prepare his deportation to North Korea.
Malaysia's attorney-general told Reuters on Thursday that he would be released due to insufficient evidence.
Police have identified seven other North Koreans wanted in connection with the killing, including a senior embassy official in Kuala Lumpur. (Reporting by Praveen Menon and Angie Teo; writing by Jack Kim and Praveen Menon; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore)
Here are news stories, press reports and events to watch which may affect Romanian financial markets on Friday.
PPI
Romanian industrial producer prices rose 2.6 percent on the year and 1.0 percent on the month in January, data from the National Statistics Board showed on Thursday.
DEBT
Romania plans to sell about 2.5-3.0 billion euros worth of eurobonds from the international markets and an indicative 48-50 billion lei ($11.63 billion) worth of domestic leu debt this year, the finance ministry said on Thursday.
Romania sold a planned 700 million lei ($162.93 million) worth of Feb. 2019 treasury bonds on Thursday, with the average accepted yield at 1.59 percent, central bank data showed.
UNEMPLOYMENT
Romania's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate edged down to 5.4 percent in January from December's 5.5 percent, the National Statistics Board said on Thursday.
CEE CURRENCIES POLL
The Czech crown could firm up more than 4 percent against the euro in the next 12 months as the central bank is expected to remove its cap on the currency, a Reuters survey showed.
Romania's leu is expected to gain 1.1 percent and the zloty 0.4 percent on the same horizon, while the forint could ease 0.7 percent and the dinar 1.1 percent.
CEE MARKETS
Central European equities markets mostly eased slightly on Thursday, taking a breather after the biggest swings since Britain's vote to leave the European Union last June.
U.S. VISAS
The European Parliament called on the EU executive on Thursday to force Americans to apply for visas before visiting Europe this summer, stepping up pressure to resolve a long-running transatlantic dispute on the issue.
The European Commission stressed it was pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the row, leaving it unlikely that it would act on the vote by lawmakers setting a May deadline to impose visas - a move that could hurt Europe's tourism sector.
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Following are news stories, press reports and events to watch that may affect Poland's financial markets on Friday. ALL TIMES GMT (Poland: GMT + 1 hour): PGG Poland's state-owned coal producer PGG wants to award 1,200 zlotys ($293.92) to each employee on the back of the firm's improved financial situation, the daily Rzeczpospolita reported, citing sources. Talks between the company's managers and labour union about raising salaries start on Friday.
BANKS
The banking sub-index WIG-banki on the Warsaw Stock Exchange rose 30 percent in the last three months and should the recent market optimism prevail, banks will be the biggest growth drivers, the daily Rzeczpospolita reported, citing analysts.
LABOUR MARKET
A record-low unemployment in Poland is forcing many companies to raise salaries and is causing difficulties finding qualified employees, the business daily Puls Biznesu reported.
ENEA
The Polish state-run utility Enea is close to finalising the purchase of Engie Energia Polska, the owner of the Polaniec Power Plant, Enea's Chief Executive Officer Miroslaw Kowalik told the business daily Puls Biznesu in an interview. Enea is still working on how to finance the acquisition, but is not considering taking funds from the coal miner Bogdanka, an entity of the Enea group. MEDIA
Poland's Culture Ministry has created a working group to come up with a project on changes to media ownership in Poland, which would limit foreign ownership, the daily Wyborcza reported.
****Reuters has not verified stories reported by Polish media and does not vouch for their accuracy.****
For other related news, double click on: Polish equities E.Europe equities Polish money Polish debt Eastern Europe All emerging markets Hot stocks Stock markets Market debt news Forex news For real-time index quotes, double click on: Warsaw WIG20 Budapest BUX Prague PX ($1 = 4.0827 zlotys) (Reporting by Warsaw Bureau; Editing by Biju Dwarakanath)
By Emily Chow
KUALA LUMPUR, March 3 (Reuters) - Malaysia has stepped up security checks at all border crossings to stop North Koreans linked to the murder of the estranged half-brother to North Korean leader Kim Jung Un from leaving the country, Malaysia's police chief told Reuters.
So far, prosecutors have charged two women - an Indonesian and a Vietnamese - with the murder of Kim Jong Nam on Feb. 13, in an assassination using a super toxic VX nerve agent that killed the victim in minutes.
While two women were seen on security camera footage assaulting Kim Jong Nam in Kuala Lumpur International Airport, police are looking for others involved in the operation, including whoever supplied them with the VX, which is listed by the United Nations as a weapon of mass destruction.
U.S. officials and South Korean intelligence believe the assassination was run by agents from secretive, nuclear-armed North Korea.
Malaysian police identified eight North Koreans wanted in connection with the case, but the only one they apprehended, a man named Ri Jong Chol, was released on Friday due to insufficient evidence and was set to be deported after a week in custody.
Inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar told Reuters on Friday that "at least two of them" were believed to be still in Malaysia.
He did not name them, though police have said that they want to question 44-year-old Hyong Kwang Song, a second secretary at the North Korean embassy in Kuala Lumpur; 37-year-old Kim Uk Il, a staffer at North Korean airline Air Koryo; and an individual named Ri Ji U.
Khalid said Hyong has yet to contact the police despite a request sent to the embassy, and that an arrest warrant had been made for the Air Koryo staffer who "is missing too".
Shahriman Lockman, a senior analyst at the Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia, said it is possible that they were all hiding in the North Korean embassy - making them virtually untouchable.
North Korea has voiced outrage at the Malaysian investigation, and does not accept that the dead man is Kim Jong Nam though it has acknowledged the victim is North Korean.
"This can go on for some time," Shahriman said.
Meantime, officers have stepped up checks at all border checkpoints, including at jetties, airports and land routes to stop any of the suspects skipping the country, Khalid told Reuters via text messages.
The other four suspects are believed to have left the country on the day of the murder, and made their way back to North Korea by air, travelling via Indonesia, Dubai and Russia.
Malaysian police have requested help from Interpol to apprehend them.
Malaysia has cancelled visa-free entry for North Koreans entering the country from March 6 as ties between two countries that had maintained friendly relations for decades became increasingly strained. (Writing by Joseph Sipalan; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore)
By Pavel Polityuk and Natalia Zinets
KIEV, March 3 (Reuters) - Ukrainian state agencies sought to detain the head of the tax and customs service on Friday over the alleged embezzlement of around $75 million - a potentially landmark case after patchy anti-graft efforts from the Western-backed authorities.
Television footage showed an apparently unconscious Roman Nasirov being stretchered into an ambulance and taken to Kiev's Feofania hospital late on Thursday.
Reporters said he had suffered a heart attack. This could not be independently verified.
Anti-corruption prosecutor Nazar Kholodnytsky said investigators believe 38-year-old Nasirov helped exiled lawmaker Oleksandr Onishchenko deprive the state of 2 billion hryvnias ($75 million) in tax revenue linked to a gas deal.
"Detectives and a prosecutor went to Feofania," Kholodnytsky said on television channel 112. "Nasirov was notified of the allegation by a detective. I will find out if he was conscious or not."
Nasirov has previously denied all allegations of graft against him. His office would not immediately comment on the matter.
Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said Nasirov had been relieved of his duties while the case is pending. "It is in our interest that the investigation be impartial and effective. This issue is very important for Ukrainian society today," he said in a government meeting.
Prosecutor Kholodnytsky was openly sceptical about Nasirov's sudden hospitalisation.
"I, like many Ukrainian citizens, have doubts about the unexpected transfer to hospital, as this has become a historic tradition for the Ukrainian political elite and top management."
He cited the example of a former transport minister who in 2008 was found by investigators in a hospital after they sought to detain him on corruption charges.
If Nasirov is found guilty, it would be the first successful prosecution of a senior official for graft since the 2014 uprising that ushered in a Western-backed leadership promising to tackle endemic corruption.
FUR COATS, JEWELS AND CASH
"This is the destruction of the unwritten corrupt status quo in the country," said pro-European lawmaker Serhiy Leshchenko in a post on Facebook.
"Nasirov will be a valuable witness to the misuse of state money by those in the highest ranks."
Stop-start reforms over the past three years have raised concerns that Ukraine's political elite lacked the will to eradicate a deep-rooted system of cronyism and bribe-taking.
Nasirov's lawyer, Andriy Kuzmenko, confirmed that he was being investigated for embezzlement and said he could face up to six years in prison.
Opposition lawmakers and the finance ministry have previously called for Nasirov to be investigated for abuse of office.
In 2016, Nasirov clashed with an activist appointed to reform the graft-plagued customs of Odessa over her accusation that he had blocked her attempts to fire corrupt officials.
In an online wealth declaration tool aimed at boosting transparency, he disclosed last October that he and his wife held cash in euros and dollars worth $2.2 million and owned Swiss watches, diamond jewellery, fur coats and fine porcelain among other items. He told Reuters in an interview he had earned this money in the financial sector before taking office.
($1 = 27.0000 hryvnias) (Reporting by Pavel Polityuk and Natalia Zinets; Writing by Alessandra Prentice; Editing by Catherine Evans)
By Gabriela Baczynska
BRUSSELS, March 3 (Reuters) - European Union states will take the formal decision on Monday to create a joint command centre for the bloc's military missions, a symbolic step in the renewed quest for more security and defence cooperation, officials and diplomats in Brussels said.
The politically-sensitive issue of pulling EU states closer together on defence has been stalled for years, but the theme returned to the EU agenda following Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and amid a growing threat from Islamic militants.
Suggestions by the new U.S. President Donald Trump that he could be less committed to the security of Washington's NATO allies in Europe if they do not meet their defence spending goals have galvanised the EU, creating a new sense of urgency.
Last December, EU leaders agreed to explore ways to establish "a permanent operational planning and conduct capability at the strategic level".
On Monday, foreign and defence ministers of the 28 EU states meeting in Brussels will decide on creating the so-called Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC) so that it can take over this spring.
It would command the bloc's "non-executive military missions". These include the three military training missions the bloc now runs in Mali, Somalia and Central African Republic.
In the future, it would also cover any capacity-building, monitoring or demobilisation and disarmament military missions.
While symbolically significant, the MPCC would in practice consist of some 30 people and sit within the bloc's foreign policy service in Brussels. It will most likely be led by the current head of the military staff at the EU's foreign arm.
Highlighting how controversial the matter still is among EU states, they debated at length on whether the head of the new body should be called a "commander". They eventually settled for "director".
Any movement towards an "EU military headquarters" has long been opposed by Britain, the bloc's leading military power, but the idea has been revived by Germany and France since the British voted to leave the EU.
Another EU and NATO state Poland - which has for a long time based its hard security guarantees on Washington and the transatlantic military alliance - is worried that more defence cooperation in the European bloc could weaken NATO's resolve in Europe.
The incremental step is, therefore, a compromise.
"We are very excited, symbolically it is important. Whatever you want to call it, it is a step towards an EU military headquarters with a commander," a French diplomat said. (Additional reporting by Tom Koerkemeier; Editing by Toby Davis)
By Mark Weinraub
CHICAGO, March 3 (Reuters) - U.S. corn and soybean futures eased on Friday on profit-taking as the ongoing harvest of big crops in South America continued to weigh on the market.
Wheat futures also were lower, with concerns about additional supplies flooding the export market pressuring prices.
All three commodities were on track to post gains for the week, but Friday's bearish tone spurred investors to move money to the sidelines.
"Some traders (are) headed to the exits rather than get bruised by more volatile trading into the weekend," Farm Futures senior analyst Bryce Knorr said in a note to clients.
Soybeans notched the biggest declines as the South American export pace was expected to pick up after slowing this week.
At least 11 ships are facing delays in loading soybeans at Brazil's northern ports after rains washed out roads and disrupted the progress of trucks carrying beans from the center-west region, Brazilian officials said on Thursday.
"The export flow may pick up again next week, provided weather conditions have allowed enough road repairs to take place," said Tobin Gorey, director of agricultural strategy at Commonwealth Bank of Australia.
At 10:05 a.m. CST (1605 GMT), Chicago Board of Trade May soybean futures were down 5-3/4 cents at $10.31-1/2 a bushel. For the week, soybeans have risen 0.6 percent.
CBOT May corn was down 1/4 cent at $3.79-1/14 a bushel. Corn was on track for a weekly gain of 4.1 percent, its biggest weekly rally since mid-October.
Soybean and corn futures rose earlier this week, supported in part by reports of potential changes to U.S. biofuel policy to boost production. Corn is the primary U.S. feedstock for ethanol and soyoil is used in biodiesel.
"The biofuel rumors in the U.S. have thrown uncertainty and confusion back into the market. They come as U.S. farmers are deciding which spring crops to grow," said David Sheppard, managing director at UK merchant Gleadell.
CBOT May wheat was 2 cents lower at $4.50-3/4 a bushel. Wheat futures have risen 0.3 percent so far this week.
Russia, among the world's largest wheat exporters, is considering exporting part of its 4 million tonne state grain stockpile to free up storage space before the new crop arrives, industry sources said. (Additional reporting by Nigel Hunt in London and Naveen Thukral in Singapore Editing by W Simon)
By Ivana Sekularac and Gabriela Baczynska
BELGRADE/BRUSSELS, March 3 (Reuters) - Nationalist Serbian lawmakers booed the European Union's top diplomat Federica Mogherini on Friday as she addressed their parliament during tour aimed at addressing concerns about rising tensions in the Balkans.
Mogherini's trip to all six Western Balkans states, still scarred by wars fought in 1990s along political, ethnic and religious lines, is meant to lay the groundwork for an EU foreign ministers meeting on Monday and a summit on Thursday.
Several EU leaders have expressed alarm at a variety of problems there and some blame Russia for seeking to destabilise the region, EU officials say.
At Mogherini's speech to the Serbian parliament, members of the Serbian Radical party chanted: "Serbia! Russia! We don't need the (European) Union!"
Four deputies from the nationalist Dveri party held banners reading: "Serbia does not trust Brussels."
Playing down the heckles during a speech that focused on the EU accession talks which Serbia hopes to complete by 2019, Mogherini later told reporters: "It is not nice to be rude to a lady!"
Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic's pro-EU coalition has a comfortable majority in parliament but the popularity of pro-Russian nationalists is on the rise. In 2016, the Radicals returned to the Serbian assembly after several years.
At their summit next week, EU leaders are expected to reaffirm their commitment "to support stability and to deepen political and economic ties with and within the region," according to an early draft of their joint statement.
That is despite weariness in EU states including France and the Netherlands where eurosceptic parties pose a challenge to the status quo in their own elections in coming weeks.
The EU has made Serbia's accession conditional on normalising its ties with Kosovo but tensions have been on the rise this year. Serbia's ally Moscow refuses to recognise the 2008 independence of Kosovo, which has an association agreement with the EU.
Their neighbour Macedonia - which aspires to join both EU and NATO - has not been able to form a government since elections in December as the president has refused to give a mandate to a coalition that includes ethnic Albanians.
A genocide lawsuit that Bosnia lodged against Serbia at the International Court of Justice angered Bosnian Serbs as well as officials in neighbouring Serbia.
In Montenegro, both pro-Western and anti-Western opposition parties are boycotting the parliament following a recent vote in which they say people were intimidated to back the government.
Russia opposes the accession of Balkan states into the EU has accused Europe and NATO of meddling in Macedonia's political crisis.
The EU believes Moscow is encouraging Bosnia's Serbs to seek independence and may have encouraged a move to unseat Montenegro's leader as he seeks to join NATO.
A border dispute between ex-Yugoslav EU members Croatia and Slovenia, adds to the mix of instability, EU officials say. (Additional reporting by Alastair Macdonald in Brussels; Writing by Gabriela Baczynska; Editing by Robin Pomeroy)
By Tom Miles, John Irish and Stephanie Nebehay
GENEVA, March 3 (Reuters) - Syria's first U.N.-led peace talks in almost a year ended on Friday without breakthrough but the United Nations mediator said the warring parties now had a clear agenda to pursue a political solution to the country's six-year-long conflict.
Both sides could point to small victories. The opposition said that the question of political transition was seriously addressed for the first time, while U.N. envoy Staffan de Mistura said counter-terrorism - an issue pushed by President Bashar al-Assad's delegation - had been added to the agenda.
"What I saw ... gives me some feeling that we are moving in the right direction," de Mistura told reporters at the end of eight days of talks, adding that he aimed to hold another round of indirect negotiations later this month.
He said counter-terrorism had been added as a "fourth basket" to the talks, alongside efforts to establish a "credible, inclusive government", drafting a new constitution and holding free and fair elections.
In theory, those issues are supposed to be addressed in a six-month time frame, but peace talks in Geneva have achieved little since they were first convened just over three years ago.
"I believe...and expect that the sides should now pursue a framework agreement containing an agreed political package so that a negotiated transitional political process can be implemented as indicated by (U.N.) Resolution 2254," de Mistura said.
Assad's chief negotiator Bashar al-Ja'afari left the talks without speaking to reporters. "He has terrorism, but has to engage on transition," one Western diplomat said.
Terrorism has been a mantra for the Syrian government, which regards all the rebels as terrorists, and described members of the negotiating delegation on Thursday as terrorists backed by Israel, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
De Mistura said the United Nations recognised only two terrorist groups: Islamic State and the former Nusra front, once an al Qaeda affiliate. Neither is part of the U.N. peace process.
MINIMAL EXPECTATIONS
The talks aim to reach a political solution to a conflict which erupted in March 2011 and has killed hundreds of thousands of people and displaced many millions. They were convened last week with minimal expectations for success.
"Although we are closing this round without clear results ... I can say this time was more positive," chief opposition negotiator Nasr al-Hariri said.
"It was the first time we discussed in acceptable depth the future of Syria and the future of political transition in Syria.
The opposition says that "political transition" means an end to nearly 50 years of Assad family rule, something the government has ruled out giving away through negotiation.
Russia, seen as holding the balance of power, met both sides behind the scenes during the talks.
Late on Thursday, Russian diplomats met representatives of Syrian armed groups, diplomats and opposition sources said, the second such contact in the past few days.
Despite those contacts, Russia accused the main opposition of trying to sabotage the talks by refusing to unite with two smaller dissident groups which have no military muscle but have Moscow's blessing as opposition voices.
Creating a unified opposition delegation is seen as the key to holding face-to-face talks, but de Mistura said he was not yet ready to do so.
A Western diplomat said Russia's push to unify the opposition was an underhand tactic.
"Russia is trying to do that to destabilise the talks. They insist on the opposition becoming one. This is a tactic to weaken the process. I hope that Staffan can push back on it."
The scope of the negotiation is much narrower than a year ago, when de Mistura also had to hear demands for a ceasefire and release of prisoners. A shaky ceasefire has been in place since December and separate talks in Kazakhstan, sponsored by Russia, Turkey and Iran, are dealing with military matters.
De Mistura said the government delegation put forward a suggestion on exchanging prisoners and abducted people, which should be taken up in Astana.
A new round of Astana talks is due on March 14, and Russian officials have said the Geneva negotiations could resume on March 20. (Additional reporting by Yara Abi Nader; Editing by Dominic Evans)
Attorney General Jeff Sessions met with Russias ambassador twice last year during Donald Trumps campaign run, but claimed during Senate confirmation hearing he did not have communications with the Russians in his capacity as an adviser to then-candidate Trump.
Despite being asked by Senator Al Franken about contacts between Trumps campaign and Russian officials, Sessions declined to mention his private conversations with Sergey Kislyak during the Republican National Convention in July and subsequently in his office in September.
House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said Thursday Attorney General Jeff Sessions should recuse himself from investigations.
The growing chorus of Democratic lawmakers calling for Sessionss resignation or recusal marks the most serious demands yet to remove Sessions.
The talks came at the height of what U.S. intelligence officials say was a Russian cyber campaign to influence the presidential race.Sessions released a statement late Wednesday night in which he said he never met with any Russian officials to discuss issues of the [Trump] campaign. I have no idea what this allegation is about. It is false.
Washington Post, 2 March 2017 -
John Tory, the Mayor of Toronto, Canada, is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka as a part of a 10-day South Asian trip which would commence from March 15, the Star reported on Thursday.
The article published on the Star website said Toronto is paying for the Mayor, two city councillors and four city staff, while about 20 delegates from Torontos business and academic communities will be paying their own way.
The trade delegation is also scheduled to visit Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad in India.
The mayor will be attempting to lure offices and jobs to Toronto and promote trade between local firms and South Asian companies, with a focus on film, education, finance and innovation.
Tory, it says, is visiting Sri Lanka to learn more about where the Tamil community is from, why they left Sri Lanka, postwar developments, economic opportunities and to visit places of cultural interest to the Tamil community in Sri Lanka,
Toronto is home to the largest Tamil-speaking population outside of Sri Lanka.
The Rotary Club of Colombo West (RI District 3220 Sri Lanka & Maldives) held the Rotary Club weekly members luncheon meeting at the Galadari Hotel recently.
Several fellow Rotary members participated at the meeting chaired by Rotary Club President Roshan Perera. The head table also comprised of Senake Amarasinghe Governor District 3220 and Harsha Rajan Secretary Rotary Club of Colombo West.
It was the fifth meeting for the year 2017. The agenda was focused on building cordial relations and goodwill among Rotarians comprising of business and professional leaders with a view in providing humanitarian services to the community at large.
Roshan Perera in his welcome address invited Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka to speak to the gathering on the current economic status of the country and for an exchange of views.
After a general presentation of the recent Clubs activities, the meeting was then devoted to a presentation by Dr. Coomaraswamy.
Dr. Coomaraswamy in his speech, outlined the Governments policies which he stressed should be pro-active and not merely for short term political expedience. He drew the attention of the audience to continuing worrying situation of the twin deficits; the budget deficit and deficit on trade. He reiterated that economic reforms are necessary, but should be consistent and steered with commitment and a clear goal of the envisioned outcome. He also spelt out proposed plans for economic recovery through the twin pillars for economic transformation, namely Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) and Exports.
The speech was followed by a Q & A session enabling members to air their concerns and clarify doubts regarding the proposed roadmap for economic progress.
Rotary member Lalith Kahatapitiya in his vote of thanks on behalf of all the members, expressed satisfaction on the fruitful exchange of information and views during the meeting, and agreed that this type of discussion was useful and praised the Governor for his frank and genuine views and appraisal of the current economic status of the country.
As part of its long-term sustainability and CSR drive, DFCC Bank recently launched a commemorative staff tree-planting initiative where a tree is planted to celebrate each and every staff members birthday.
Additional trees are also planted at key sites, where reforestation is a priority and these programmes are carried out in collaboration with Reforest Lanka, a non-profit society committed to the protection and extension of forest cover in Sri Lanka.
Staff members whose birthdays are celebrated each month receive a personalised invitation to attend the tree-planting campaign. They also receive an e-tree dedication certificate after the tree planting campaign which provides the link to find the exact location of the planted tree on Google Maps.
In January alone, DFCC Bank planted a total of 960 trees in Aranayake, 160 of which were planted to commemorate staff birthdays in January. Furthermore, to coincide with Independence Day celebrations, a further 1,000 trees were planted alongside the Kaduwela Kadawatha Highway, out of which 100 seedlings were planted in commemoration of staff birthdays in February. In addition, DFCC Bank will plant 1,000 trees at the University of Jaffna during the latter part of February.
These tree-planting programmes were attended by staff members and their families, as well as members of the local community, who came together to support the Banks initiative.
Commenting on the initiative, Arjun Fernando, CEO DFCC Bank, stated, I would like to extend my congratulations to the DFCC Sustainability Unit and the entire team for successfully launching this initiative. In a short period of time, we have planted approximately 2,000 trees and actively engaged team members at every level of our organisation. This initiative has helped to instil a greater commitment towards protecting the planet and operating as a responsible corporate citizen internally which is in line with one of our core values; being socially responsible.
The trees planted will help to reforest key areas across the island, whilst giving back to the planet at large. The trees will help to improve soil quality in the areas and minimise soil erosion, whilst returning much-needed oxygen to the environment.
Two navy personnel including a commodore were arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) today over the abduction and disappearance of 11 students from Tamil schools around Colombo in 2006.
The two suspects were summoned to the CID this morning to record statements in connection with the incident. (Nirangi Abewickrama and Indika Ramanayake)
By D.B.S. Jeyaraj
Case No. B 85/17 concerning the assassination attempt targeting Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Jaffna district MP M. A. Sumanthiran was taken up at the Kilinochchi courts before Kilinochchi District Judge A. A. Anandarajah on February 27, 2017. Five ex-LTTE members were again produced in courts as the chief suspects by the Police Terrorism Investigation Department (TID). The five ex-Tigers are suspected of being involved in a plot instigated, devised and financed by overseas LTTE operatives to assassinate MP M.A. Sumanthiran.
At the outset, the TID officials filed a further report outlining the progress made by the Police in investigating the assassination plot against the high profile lawyer MP who is also the accredited spokesperson of the TNA as well as its chief constituent the Ilankai Thamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK). The Police report in essence comprised three parts.
The first part was about information gathered from one of the suspects Gnanasegaralingam Rajmathan who had been taken by the Police to specific areas in the north where the would be assassins had planned to slay the MP by exploding a claymore mine. Police had earlier obtained permission from courts to do so when the case was heard by Judge Anandarajah on Feb 13, in Kilinochchi. While the suspect had been willing to re-visit places with the Police and re-trace the contours of the assassination conspiracy, the other four suspects had not consented to do so.
The second part of the report was about the information gathered from the other four suspects being held at the Anuradhapura prisons. Police had obtained permission from courts to do so when the case was heard by Judge Anandarajah on Feb 13. Since the five suspects have been remanded to fiscal custody and are not being detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) the Police have to obtain court permission to record statements and must also do so in the presence of prisons officials. The Police report incorporated further statements recorded from Karalasingham Kulendran, Murugaiyah Thavaendran, Velayuthan Vijayakumar and Mariyanayagam Lewis Ajanthan.
As the anti-terrorism sleuths pursued investigations there emerged clear evidence that the unholy trinity spearheading a coordinated campaign to revive the LTTE comprised Gobi, Appan and Deiveegan
The third part of the Police report was a status update on further investigations made about the overseas LTTE operatives involved in the assassination plot.Three persons known as Amuthan, Maran and Vetri allegedly operating from Malaysia, France and Australia respectively are suspected of masterminding, coordinating and directing the assassination attempt on Sumanthiran MP. While Malaysian officials have said that Amuthan was no longer on Malaysian soil, Australian officials have indicated that Vetri had been identified. Maran from France is suspected of being a Swiss resident who operated out of Paris in recent times. The trail had turned cold in all three cases after the ex-Tigers in Sri Lanka were arrested.
After submitting the report to Kilinochchi court the Police requested permission from Judge Anandarajah to escort Rajmathan to designated areas once again and re-construct the assassination further. Police also sought court permission to interrogate the suspects Kulendran, Thavaendran, Vijayakumar and Ajanthan further at the Anuradhapura jail. Police also wanted courts to sanction their interacting with relevant authorities
in the USA to gain further information regarding communications among the five ex-LTTE cadres arrested in Lanka and the overseas Tiger trio of Amuthan, Vetri and Maran. Mobile access Apps (WhatsApp/Viber) had been used to communicate. Judge Anandarajah granted permission for all requests made by Police.He also re-remanded the five suspects and set the date of the next hearing for March 13, 2017.
TID Director DIG Nalaka de Silva
As stated in these columns earlier, the probe into the Sumanthiran-assassination attempt is being conducted solely by the Police. It is reliably learnt that while the knitty-gritty aspects of the case are being handled on ground by different TID officials, the overall thrust of the investigation is being overseen by TID director DIG Nalaka de Silva himself. Usually in a case such as this, with overtones of political terrorism, the TID would have invoked the draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and detained the suspects for a longer period. They would also have had unfettered access to the suspects in their custody and perhaps subjected them to an intensiveinterrogation.White vans would have scoured the north and east renditioning suspects particularly ex-LTTE cadres.
This however is not being done, as the Maithri-Ranil Govt has taken a policy decision to repeal and replace the PTA with new counter -terrorism laws. The old PTA is not operational any more,
Secretary General of the Secretariat for Coordinating Reconciliation Mechanisms (SCRM) Mano Tittawela stated in Geneva this week. The decision not to utilise the PTA has been welcomed by the victim concerned Sumanthiran himself. The TNA MP cum lawyer who has appeared in several landmark human rights cases has been strongly against the PTA in the past.
As such the Police are handling the assassination plot case under normal laws of the land.With the suspects remanded to judicial custody the Police have to obtain court permission to continue further investigations by questioning them. All this leads to some delay in the pace of the probe. The law enforcement machinery used to decades of excessive power under the PTA and emergency regulations finds it cumbersome to proceed under normal laws. Despite the delay it is indeed commendable that the investigation is being conducted under normal laws. It is time for the country at large to free itself of baggage such as the PTA and proceed positively towards a brighter future.
What is troubling however is the deeply-divided security structures particularly the intelligence gathering apparatus. Intelligence gathering and analysing is of crucial importance in combatting attempts by the overseas LTTE to foment violence in Sri Lanka. Intelligence is essential to maintain and ensure national security.When Mahinda Rajapaksa was in power his brother Gotabhaya was the all-powerful Defence Secretary. It was he who oversaw
the intelligence agencies. One of the arrangements he put into place was to hold a weekly meeting for all relevant intelligence agencies and divisions. Gota himself chaired the meeting while the then State Intelligence (SIS) Chief Kapila Hendavitharane functioned as secretary.
The SIS, Directorate of Military Intelligence (DMI) of the Army, Terrorism Investigation Department (TID) of the Police, Special intelligence branch of the Police and the multi - disciplinary Colombo intelligence unit were all part of this weekly briefing/meeting. It is well known that all reputed law enforcement and national security agencies are plagued by inter -departmental rivalry. From the CIA - FBI divide in the US to the RAW - CBI schism in India, these Tensions go with the territory.
Effective leadership is required to manage these inter-departmental contradictions and undertake a coordinated effort to combat potential terrorism revival and safeguard national security.
Hiatus between police and intelligence agencies
This spirit of cooperation and coordination is conspicuously absent at present. The armed forces are under the Defence ministry while the Police are under the Law and Order Ministry. Worse still is the prevailing hiatus between the Police and the intelligence agencies. This has led to inter-service enmity of a very high order. This is patently visible in the probe into the Sumanthiran- assassination attempt. The TID is conducting it alone without enlisting the support of intelligence agencies. The intelligence agencies remain aloof without extending any help to the investigation. Both sides are also engaged in an unofficial campaign to blacken each other. Thus we see media reports critical of each other. On the one hand there are reports suggesting a military intelligence link to arrested ex-Tigers while on the other, reports say, there was no LTTE revival attempt.
The assassination attempt was planned and coordinated by LTTE operatives in the global Tamil Diaspora.
Against this backdrop of a divided security apparatus the chances of the Sumanthiran- assassination attempt probe proceeding beyond a certain stage seems uncertain. The TID has apprehended the would be assassins on ground but they are virtually clueless about the overseas angle. The assassination attempt was planned and coordinated by LTTE operatives in the global Tamil Diaspora. The ex-LTTE cadres arrested by Police were to execute the task assigned by the overseas LTTE.
The intelligence agencies remain aloof without extending any help to the investigation
A comprehensive investigation therefore requires the capacity to delve deeply into both the internal and external dimensions. The TID is primarily a law enforcement agency confined to Sri Lanka. It is the State intelligence Service and Directorate of Military Intelligence who have the best information about the overseas Tigers. In fact the intelligence agencies have even infiltrated some of the overseas Tiger structures. The TID has no knowledge of these aspects.
The plot to assassinate Sumanthiran is not one which should be treated lightly. This is the first time after the war ended in May 2009, that there has been a planned attempt to assassinate a prominent Tamil political leader on Sri Lankan soil. Five ex-Tigers have been arrested and there is evidence of Diaspora Tiger involvement in the exercise. It is therefore very important that a comprehensive investigation be conducted. For this, close cooperation and coordination between the TID and intelligence agencies are necessary.
They would also have had unfettered access to the suspects in their custody and perhaps subjected them to an intensive interrogation.
There have been several attempts by overseas LTTE to foment violence in Sri Lanka after the Tigers were defeated in May 2009. The most serious and well-organized attempt to revive the LTTE was discovered and crushed in early 2014. This attempt was spearheaded by a trio comprising Suntharalingam Gajatheeban alias Theiveegan, Navaratnam Navaneethan alias Appan and Ponniah Selvanayagam Kajeepan alias Gobi.
Well-organized effort to resurrect LTTE
This was the most serious well-organized effort to resurrect the LTTE in Sri Lanka after May 2009. This was thwarted by the concerted efforts of the Police and Armed Forces. A crucial factor in this exercise was the close cooperation of State Intelligence, Military Intelligence and Police TID in combatting a common threat. I have written extensively about this in the past. A re-run of those events relying upon such writings would help to emphasise the importance of a united security apparatus in combating perceived threats to national security.
A five week period from March 6 to April 11 in 2014 saw a concerted drive by the police and security forces to combat the resurgence attempt of the LTTE in Sri Lanka. Many cordon-and-search operations were conducted. A large number of people were rounded up, questioned and released.
Many persons were detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) for intensive interrogation. As the anti-terrorism sleuths pursued investigations there emerged clear evidence that the unholy trinity spearheading a coordinated campaign to revive the LTTE comprised Gobi, Appan and Deiveegan. All three were members of the LTTE who had not undergone rehabilitation after the fall of the LTTE in May 2009 at Mullivaaikkaal. The highly motivated trio had the single-minded objective of reviving the LTTE again in Sri Lanka. All three had been in foreign countries after May 2009 and had the option of leading a comparatively safe and comfortable life abroad. Yet they had voluntarily returned to Lanka with the blinkered vision of reviving the LTTE and pursued their goal with missionary zeal.
What is troubling however is the deeply-divided security structures particularly the intelligence gathering apparatus.
Deiveegan was born in Manthuvil in the Thenmaratchy division of the Jaffna district on May 2, 1979. He joined the LTTE voluntarily in 1995 and his real name
is Suntharalingam Gajatheeban. Among his many noms de Guerre and noms de plume are Theiveegan, Thevian, Navaneethan, Vallan and Devan. He served for a long time as a bodyguard of LTTE Leader Veluppillai Prabhakaran and wife Mathivathani. He had also obtained a piloting licence and participated in air strikes by the LTTE air wing Vaanpuligal (Air Tigers). Deiveegan has reportedly been involved in the aerial attacks on Kerawalapitiya and Anuradhapura during the war.
After the war ended in May 2009, Deiveegan went clandestinely to India and established contact with Nediyavan in Norway and moved to South-east Asia and later went to Europe and shuttled among different countries. He then returned to India and was placed in charge of operations in India and Sri Lanka by the Nediyavan group. Deiveegan is believed to have been moving back and forth between India and Sri Lanka on a false passport or by using clandestine country boats. Ponniah Selvanayagam Kajeepan alias Gobi
Gobi; whose real name was Ponniah Selvavanayagam Kajeepan was around 31 years of age. His other alias is Kaseeyan. Gobi hailing from Iyakkachchi in the Pachilaippalli division of Kilinochchi district also joined the LTTE voluntarily while in his early teens and served in the Kittu Artillery unit of the LTTE. Later he functioned in the LTTE intelligence wing commanded by Pottu Ammaan.
Gobi worked as an intelligence operative in the LTTE under Perinbam master. He was stationed in Colombo for a long time and was engaged mainly in reconnaissance and logistical transport. He reportedly spoke Sinhala fluently. Gobi was married to Sharmila Balamurugan from Paalaiootru in Trincomalee. Both were in the Wanni when the war ended. Gobi with his then pregnant wife posed off as a civilian and was housed at the Ananda Coomaraswamy Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Chettikulam. They were allowed to relocate to Sharmilas fathers house in Paalaiootru when the baby was born in the camp. Gobi who had a heavy vehicle driving licence went abroad from Trinco to Saudi Arabia to work as a driver.
After his Saudi contract was over, Gobi went to Europe and travelled to different countries from there. He reportedly met with Irumporai - the de facto leader of the Nediyavan LTTE faction in Europe. Gobi then made contact with Deiveegan and returned to Sri Lanka. He cut off links with his mother and wife. Gobi bought a lorry and rented it out for transport as an owner/driver. He used this as a cover and moved around the North and travelled to and from Colombo, recruiting people and setting up clandestine cells.
Appan, whose real name was Navaratnam Navaneethan was born in Oorani in the Jaffna district on December 22, 1978. He joined the LTTE voluntarily in 1996. Among his other names were Abishan and Thiru. Appan worked under LTTE leader Gandhi who was supervising the LTTE prisons and detention camps for many years. Later he was moved to the intelligence wing under Pottu Ammaan.
In 2006, Appan was sent to Colombo and worked under an LTTE operative known as Kaanthan. Appan like Gobi, was used for reconnaissance and transport and he was in Colombo when the war ended. He then moved to Qatar and worked as a driver. Appan also was in contact with Gobi while in the Middle-East. He too returned to Sri Lanka like Gobi and set about the task of trying to revive the LTTE. He too cut off contact with his family.
Appan, Gobi and Deiveegan, though having the opportunity of residing outside Sri Lanka made the choice of returning to the Island and reviving the LTTE. Fortunately for the country, and all its peace-loving people, the LTTE renaissance project that was planned, coordinated and executed by the three was detected in its formative stages and nullified beforehand through adroit action. Although it was thought initially that Gobi was the live-wire behind the enterprise, fresh information gained subsequently indicated that Deiveegan was the brainy dynamo who was primarily responsible for this attempted resurgence.
Apparently, the three revivalists were in charge of three broad wings. Gobi was in charge of intelligence, while Appan was responsible for propaganda. Deiveegan was responsible for operations or military strikes and was the overall chief of the new entity.
Envisaged LTTE had short, mid and long-term goals
The nouveau LTTE that they envisaged had short, mid and long term goals. They went about recruiting people and setting up safe houses. They targeted mainly LTTE cadres who had not surrendered to the armed forces and therefore had not undergone rehabilitation for recruitment. Next of kin to dead LTTE cadres or family members of those who had disappeared were also recruited. In some instances they also enlisted the services of some people who were actually innocent of the sinister design but had got involved without realising the diabolical machinations at play.
What was frightening about the LTTE revival project was that it had ample support from Tiger elements cutting across intra-LTTE divisions. Members from the LTTE branches as well as front organisations had been backing the Deiveegan-Gobi-Appan triumvirate. The funding for LTTE revival attempts seem to have been channelled through money transfer agents as well as reputed banks. The five key figures who had been funding LTTE resurgent activities in Sri Lanka from abroad are Yathavan alias Santhosham master in Switzerland, Veeramani alias Regan in France, Shanthi in Germany, Deva in Canada and Soori in Britain.
The money sent from abroad has been used by the Deiveegan-Gobi-Appan trio to help finance the LTTE revival attempt in Lanka. Lands and houses were acquired and vehicles also had been purchased. Equipment such as computers and cameras had been bought. Leaflets and posters were printed. More importantly money was liberally used as an incentive to recruit people. The abject poverty of many former LTTE cadres and families of ex-LTTE operatives had been exploited. Some were co-opted through lure of financial rewards and remuneration.
The entire network was broken up into three or four cells and linked to each other via the net. Overseas contact was maintained through internet and telephone. Most of the people functioned compartmentally on a need-to-know only basis. The lynchpins however were Deiveegan, Gobi and Appan. Of these three persons, Deiveegan adopted a relatively low profile. Much of the spadework in widening contacts and setting up cells was done by Gobi and to a lesser extent by Appan. While Gobi posed as the owner/driver of a lorry, Appan had his own three-wheeler. Both vehicles were purchased through a reputed firm in Sri Lanka.
State Intelligence, Military Intelligence as well as the Terrorism Investigations division of the police worked together on the matter. Traditional inter-departmental rivalry was shelved and the different arms cooperated wholeheartedly with the common objective of preventing a tiger renaissance. As investigations progressed and more suspects were detained and interrogated, it became glaringly obvious that the three persons evading arrest were the most important figures in the LTTE revival exercise.
Investigation had been a constantly evolving one
The investigation itself had been a constantly evolving one with many an unexpected twist and turn. In the preliminary stages when the name of Gobi cropped up the police had published wanted posters with Gobis name only. Later when Appan was also implicated his name too was added. Posters and leaflets saying both Gobi and Appan were wanted were distributed and rewards for information offered. Subsequently when the name of Deiveegan emerged another notice was issued separately for him.
When it was clearly obvious that the three were the kingpins of the LTTE revival attempt another type of posters and leaflets were issued. The names, images and descriptions of all three were published in one notice. A reward of one million rupees leading to their capture was offered. Telephone numbers were publicised where members of the public could ring and supply information. Official sources said 42,000 such leaflets were distributed as well as pasted in public places throughout the North. This made a terrific impact on the people and evoked a positive response at many levels.
Several tipoff and leads were received about movements of suspicious individuals. Many of these were followed up and found to be erroneous or false alarms. Finally a positive lead was received from the Vedivaiththakallu area in the Vavuniya North division. It was reported that people engaged in wood-cutting had seen suspicious movements in the dense forest. One informant was positive that it was Gobi who was moving around there.
The Vavuniya North division also called Nedunkerni division is a sprawling region in the Wanni. The sparsely populated Southern areas of the region are infested with thick jungles. Vedivaithakallu was about 8 miles to the south of Nedunkerni. Acting on the information received a contingent of troops were stationed in the area on the outskirts of the jungle. Small teams of military trained in jungle warfare were deployed to penetrate the jungle interior and scout around.
It was around noon at about 1.00 pm on Thursday April 10, 2014, when a deep penetration patrol stumbled upon a secluded spot under a canopy of trees where a makeshift hearth and army mess tins were discovered. The burning embers suggested that the fugitives had heard sounds of the soldiers approaching and had quickly run away. A rapid search in the surrounding bushes resulted in four military backpacks being recovered.
Three of the backpacks had jungle-survival items like medicinal capsules, ointments, spirits, bug repellents, bandages, knives, flash lights, small mirrors, batteries, handy instruments, lighters, matches, tinderboxes, cords, candles, light apparel etc. The fourth backpack was stocked with dry rations and eatables like noodle packets, canned beef and fish, soup cans, tinned milk, biscuits, chocolates, nutrition bars and chewing gum packets. A thorough examination of the contents suggested that the trio could have survived on the food items for about 7-8 days in the jungle.
Overall command of Maj. Gen. Boniface Perera
Once these backpacks were detected, the security apparatus went to work expeditiously. Additional military personnel were hastily deployed. 3,000 soldiers from Vavuniya, Kilinochchi and Mullaitheevu districts were detailed for jungle combing operations. They were under the overall command of the then Wanni security forces commander Maj. Gen. Boniface Perera.
The soldiers were put through training drills and exercises that would have been helpful in the jungle terrain search operations. The exercises were conducted in batches at points far away from the target zone so as to prevent the fugitive trio from being alerted. Once the training exercise was over each batch was transported quietly up to a point from where they proceeded on foot to the target area. The training exercises went on throughout the night.
The military operation went ahead as planned. Under cover of darkness the soldiers were positioned around the jungle area with about one soldier for every five metres at most places. By first light at the crack of dawn, deployed military personnel had surrounded the tract of jungle in which the fugitive Tiger trio was hiding in. Silently the soldiers waited for their quarry to emerge from the jungle and walk into the military cordon.
It was about 6.45 am on Friday April 11, 2014, when the trio came out to the edge of the jungle slowly. Apparently the Tigers did not expect the soldiers to be lying in wait for them. Since the area was of a secondary forest type with dense shrubs and thick under-brush, visibility was somewhat obscured. Deiveegan and Appan were in front with Gobi following behind.
Suddenly Deiveegan spied the soldiers through the bushes at a distance less than 10 metres. He whipped out a pistol and the soldiers also opened fire. There was a sharp exchange of gunfire. Both Deiveegan and Appan were hit. Deiveegan fell down on the spot while Appan ran back and fell. Gobi ran back as the firing started and took cover in a clump of bushes. Then he tried to drag the fallen Appan back into the bushes. The soldiers opened fire when they thought Gobi was trying to throw a grenade. He too was killed. The skirmish ended with the three Tigers being killed and two soldiers getting slightly injured. Apparently the military gave no quarter and had taken no prisoners.
A total of six telephones, including two satellite phones and a Global Positioning System (GPS) were recovered from the fallen Tigers. A large amount of cash in Sri Lankan, Indian and US currency was also retrieved. So too was a notebook with addresses and telephone numbers. Contrary to expectations, the three Tigers were not heavily armed. There was only a 9mm pistol used by Deiveegan and some ammunition rounds plus four hand grenades. When the latters gun was examined, it was found that 14 of the 16 shots in the magazine had been fired through it; it was not clear as to whether all the shots were fired in this particular confrontation.
The Kebbithigollewa Magistrate visited the spot and held an inquiry. Thereafter the three bodies were first taken to the Padaviya hospital and from there to Anuradhapura where the Judicial Medical Officer conducted a postmortem examination.The bodies were identified by family members. The father, sister and brother-in-law of Deiveegan identified Suntharalingam Gajatheeban. The mother, wife and father-in-law of Gobi identified Ponniah Selvanayagam Kajeepan. There was however a hitch in the case of Appan whose old mother was unable to identify her son as she had not seen him for 10 years. This caused a delay. Finally, Appans two brothers came and identified Navaratnam Navaneethan. All three bodies were buried according to a Court Order at the Vijayapura burial grounds in Anuradhapura. The last rites were conducted by a Hindu priest from the Kathiresan temple in Anuradhapura. Only family members of Deiveegan, Gobi and Appan were allowed for the funeral. The media and public were forbidden to attend.
Adopting a compartmentalised approach
Thus ended in 2014 the saga of the Tiger trio, Deiveegan, Gobi and Appan who embarked upon the quixotic mission of reviving the LTTE in Sri Lanka. It is too early to say whether MP Sumanthirans assassination attempt was an isolated instance or part of a larger conspiracy to revive the LTTE in Sri Lanka. One thing, however, is certain. The current situation where a divided security apparatus is adopting a compartmentalised approach can only weaken the efforts to combat attempts by the Diaspora Tigers to foment violence in Sri Lanka.
D.B.S.Jeyaraj can be reached at dbsjeyaraj@yahoo.com
A workshop to discuss strategic aspects for developing a national system that supports innovation and entrepreneurship was held at the Development Strategies and International Trade Ministry recently.
Several distinguished personalities including government officials, representatives from the research and private sectors, investors, members of the startup community and World Bank experts marked their presence at the workshop. Among them were Science, Technology and Research Minister Susil Premajayantha and State Minister of International Trade Sujeewa Senasinghe.
Subject Minister Malik Samarawickrama addressed the gathering on the vision of the national economy as it liberalised trade with regional partners. Excerpts of the ministers speech:
It is well-understood that one of the key factors in establishing competitive advantage in aggressive markets is through the development and commercialisation of high-end products and services. To deliver such expectations, it is imperative that the country emphasises innovation and entrepreneurship. The successes of these two elements rely on research outcomes, be they funded publicly or privately.
The Sri Lankan Governments National Economic Development Plan (Balagathu Sri Lankawak) was unveiled in January this year, and it identifies that in order to create long-term employment and to improve income, we should move towards an export economy. Furthermore, it recognises the facilitating of business initiation and improvements, becoming a member of the global product chains and creating a powerful and modern digital economy as key aspects that need to be looked at in conjunction to achieve this objective.
In my opinion, innovation and entrepreneurship stand at the centre of all these components, thereby providing the basis to achieve our goal of creating a positive investment climate and trade regime which will generate more and better jobs for the countrys youth. Our plan to create development corridors that will be set up for investment in public and private sectors with the role of the private sector being duly recognised to offer additional exposure and opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals with the focus on digital economy, tourism, commercial agriculture as well as accelerating the process of industrialisation, is a highlight that shows the government has identified innovation as a key driver for progress.
However, given the size of the small market of a mere 21 million people, we understand that the growth potential of Sri Lanka inevitably lies in global integration. To benefit from opening itself for trade, local products and services should be able to compete in the international markets.
A handful of Sri Lankan enterprises have been selected as they have shown rapid growth in export-oriented products. For example, the apparel industry has moved from a commodity-export model in targeting niche markets to higher value-added production. There is also an emerging but growing digital industry reflecting greater export potential. However, these islands of success are few in number. Compared to countries like Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam, the export product mix in Sri Lanka has not seen a drastic change since the 90s. In fact, exports, as a percentage of GDP, have declined significantly in the recent years. The sluggish growth of exports is due to very little diversification. When Vietnam added 48 new products/line items and Thailand added 70 to their export baskets, Sri Lanka has added only seven new businesses during 2000-2015. Further, Sri Lankan exports tend to be commodity products rather than higher-value products and services.
We are very ambitious that the GSP+ preferences will make a significant contribution to the local economy through increasing exports to the EU market beyond traditional exports. After signing the three FTAs with India and China, we will have access to a market of Rs. 3 billion. These are the avenues for new businesses and quality products.
At the same time, we need to identify our challenges, what forces might prevent our small businesses gaining new opportunities from such avenues. The following are a few findings that came up in the rapid assessment the World Bank team conducted on the request of the government on Sri Lankas innovative and entrepreneurial environment.
There are a number of factors that inhibit the formation and development of innovative startup companies which are often the source of innovative business models, products and services that can have a transformative economic impact. These detrimental factors include a variety of policy, regulatory and tax issues, the lack of a robust innovative technology pipeline and a very nascent early stage venture capital and angel-funding network in Sri Lanka.
SMEs in Sri Lanka generally lack the knowledge and experience required to adopt and adapt new technologies and thereby develop newer/higher value products and services to address domestic and international market opportunities. It is also the case that these SMEs are removed from and unable to access global value chains which may offer them the opportunity to sell their products and services in international markets.
The focus of the R&D that is being undertaken would benefit from a less traditional, academic focus to one that focusses on creating economic value for Sri Lanka. As a middle-income country aspiring to embark on a knowledge-based growth trajectory, Sri Lankas expenditures on R&D at 0.16 per cent of GDP could be a lot higher.
Over several years, the ministries made efforts to address these issues. It is evident that we cannot tackle all these challenges in isolation, but instead we need to come into one platform where we could have a holistic approach. I believe todays discussion will be the first step towards this path.
We welcome the opportunity to work in close partnership with the World Bank and other organisations to help Sri Lanka become a highly-competitive economy and fast track to an upper middle-income country.
Despite the continuing crises such as the debt-ridden economy, the lack of direct foreign investments and the soaring cost of living, the national government to a large extent is restoring democratic rights.
Civic conscious citizens need to be aware of the moral law that rights are linked to responsibilities. To the extent we fulfil our responsibilities, only to that extent could we claim or fight for our rights. Similarly to the extent we fail in our responsibilities, to that extent we forfeit our rights.
Reflections on these lines are essential in view of the growing number of strikes, demonstrations or work-to-rule campaigns that often affect innocent people. For instance the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA), which proudly claims to be one of the most powerful trade unions in Asia, yesterday launched another unannounced strike at all public hospitals in the Western Province. The strike is part of the GMOAs growing campaign against the awarding of medical degrees to graduates of the South Asian Institute of Technology and Medicine (SAITM) at Malabe. The wildcat strike left thousands of patients, mostly poor people, stranded. At Kalubowilas Colombo South Teaching Hospital one patient said he had come on Thursday night all the way from Embilipitiya because yesterday was his clinic day.
President Maithripala Sirisena, who has personally intervened to resolve the SAITM crisis, says he is meeting all parties including the authorities, SAITM students and their families to find a solution that is just and fair to all concerned. But the GMOA, which is widely accused of sometimes playing party politics, appears to be unwilling to wait for this just and fair solution to be worked out. Yesterday the GMOA caused additional pain and suffering to thousands of mainly poor patients and it has been doing it on a regular basis since the SAITM crisis erupted last year though this private university was set up 2008.
Medicine or healing, in its highest sense, is a vocation where the well-being of patients is given top priority. Valid questions are being asked whether the doctors who suddenly struck work yesterday were aware or sincerely committed to the hallowed Hippocratic Oath which they took. Lest they forget a part of the oath is like this: I swear to fulfill, to the best of my ability and judgment, this covenant; I will respect the hard-won scientific gains of those physicians in whose steps I walk and gladly share such knowledge as is mine with those who are to follow; I will apply, for the benefit of the sick, all measures which are required, avoiding those twin traps of over-treatment and therapeutic nihilism; I will remember that there is art to medicine as well as science and that warmth, sympathy and understanding may outweigh the surgeons knife or the chemists drug
With the GMOA regularly breaking this oath and setting a bad example, we also see university students staging demonstrations on busy highways at peak times, causing delays and other problems to thousands of people including schoolchildren. This has led to calls even by civic rights activists that no group has a right to cause serious problems to thousands of innocent people -- and therefore there should be some restrictions on demonstrations at peak times on city highways.
Traditionally, most democratic countries have accepted the right to strike but it should be the last resort only when dialogue, consensus and other non-threatning means have failed. But now it appears that some organizations are resorting to the unacceptable position of striking first and talking later thereby causing all sorts of problems to thousands of people. When medical doctors resort to this it could amount to a death blow to democracy and also to poor patients.
If the physicians heal themselves we could see healing in many social justice issues that confront us today.
A strange sight awaited the residents of the Nawalapitiya Town yesterday when a man was found to have climbed an electrical post holding a high tension wire, carrying with him a pack of rice and a bottle of water.
Seeing the man climbing this post workers from the electrical department who had been in the vicinity had alerted the Ceylon Electricity Board who had acted quickly to cut off the power supply, thus averting a disaster.
The police, who were called in, together with the people in the town had managed to bring the man down from the electrical post and he was rushed him to the Nawalapitiya Hospital thereafter.
The man, believed to be around fifty years of age, was identified as a resident of Ulapone. (Suranga Rajanayake)
The great immigration debate has to become the great re-thinking and re-structuring debate. Charlie Brown is right when he says, No problem is too big and complicated that it cant be run away from.
In both the US and the EU the focus is increasingly on the problem of immigration. President Donald Trump talks of them being criminals, drug traffickers and scroungers. And then he wants to build a very expensive wall on the border separating countries that for a long time have not countenanced war or terrorism against each other. (By the way, there is a funny Mexican joke: Yes, its a good idea to build the wall- it will keep Trump out!)
There are good reasons for allowing low-skilled immigrants in. (In this column I use the word immigrants to include refugees.) Shika Dalmir has given eight good reasons why this should be so:
1) Americans are the customers of low-skilled immigrants, buying services from them, everything from hospital cleaning to childcare to repairs to the house.
2) These immigrants are mobile since they rent rather than own. So they can move to where the work is. Right now they are being encouraged to move to Detroit where much of the population has fled the citys decay and the mayor is trying to revitalise it.
3) They are good for American and European women. Often nannies, they enable many women to work. Many of these are high-skilled and therefore contribute a good deal to society.
4) Immigrants cost the state less than ordinary workers. They often dont qualify for benefits. Of course they cost the state when it comes to schooling or medical care. But then they pay taxes (unless they are illegals).
5) They create jobs. They reduce the costs of production and make American or European goods more competitive with Latin American, Chinese, Indian and African exports. Some economists argue that immigrants pull the wages of the host community down but Shakir Dalmir says they have got it wrong. She says that it is a win-win situation since immigration works to maximise the potential of the economy across the board. This lifts all boats.
6) As long ago as the 1960s research work done in London made the point, supported by academic work today, that immigrants, apart from refugees, only journey to a country if they hear on the grape vine that lots of jobs are available. If not they dont come.
7) A 2005 World Bank report found that if the wealthier countries allowed a 3% rise each year in the size of their labour forces through easier immigration the gains to Third World Countries over time would be about $300 billion. Fully open borders would double the national income of the world in a few decades, virtually eliminating global poverty.
John Stuart Mill, the great nineteenth century economist, wrote that migration was one of the primary sources of progress. Adam Smith also opposed restrictions on immigration. Ironically, it was Karl Marx who seemed to be against immigration. He wrote that Englands decision to absorb the surplus Irishmen driven out by the famine was a ploy by the English bourgeoisie to force down wages and lower the material and moral position of the English working class.
But there are arguments for limiting the flow in the future. If you fill an empty bottle with wine, it is good stuff until it overflows. Then it no longer is useful to the drinker.
In my book, Conundrums of Humanity -- The Big Foreign Policy Issues Of Our Day, I argue that there are enough immigrants already (apart from refugees who shouldnt be refused). Those who readily argue for more are the middle and upper middle class who not only benefit from their jobs but enjoy the food and music that immigrants bring with them. But it is the lower middle class and working class who often live cheek by jowl with immigrants. It is they who see their schools and health facilities becoming overcrowded.
Moreover, immigration put on hold older problems society should have been forced to confront earlier. It has put off the day when menial jobs should have been altered and improved and paid better to attract unemployed natives.
And why should older workers be thrown on the scrap heap when they are 65? There is plenty of work to be done for those with experience. If they are not put to good use, as the population ages millions of immigrants will be needed in Europe and the US. Can one expect societies to adjust uncomplainingly when they feel the country is slipping away from the natives?
Soon, sometime tomorrow, the bottle will be full. Now is the time to begin the necessary adjustment to stop it overflowing.
Note: For 17 years Jonathan Power was a foreign affairs columnist for the International Herald Tribune.
Kalutara Chief Magistrate Bharathi Wijeratne yesterday called for a report on telephone conversations that took place between individuals inside the prison and those outside on the day the Black Maria carrying inmates from the Kalutara Prison was ambushed, which led to the deaths of five prisoners and two prison officials.
The prisoners were being transported from the Kalutara Prison to the Kaduwela Courts when an unidentified gang attacked the bus.
She ordered the telecommunications companies to furnish the required details to court. Further Magisterial Inquiry was postponed for March 16. (Sunil Thanthriarachchi)
From left: Lanka Hospitals Chief Marketing Officer Nimal Ratnayake, Chairman Dr. Sarath Paranavitane and CEO Dr.Prasad Medawatte at the website re-launch
Pic by Waruna Wanniarachchi
Lanka Hospitals, the most accredited healthcare provider in Sri Lanka announced the relaunch of its web presence through URL www.lankahospitals.com with high-quality improvements and digital facets, beneficial for healthcare enthusiasts and patients.
The revamped Lanka Hospitals official web site is mobile responsive and delivers the identical user experience across devices, browsers and operating systems and is complete with content to support different individual user journeys.
www.lankahospitals.com was relaunched by Chairman Dr. Sarath Paranavitane, at an event held at Cinnamon Grand, Colombo recently. The new website of Lanka Hospitals is designed and developed to maximize medical tourism and aligns strategically with the Sri Lankan governments objective to promote the country as a medical tourism destination. Therefore this digital enhancement not only will benefit Lanka Hospitals but also Sri Lanka as a country, channeling in a lucrative avenue that could take Sri Lanka as the most preferred healthcare hub of Asia and the Asia Pacific region, said Dr. Paranavitane.
Chief Marketing Officer of Lanka Hospitals, Nimal Ratnayake noted that www.lankahospitals.com comprises Sinhala and Tamil language support and will launch in to more international languages in phase 2 of its continuous improvement plan.
The new website will host mini sites dedicated to centres of excellence such as womens wellness centre, gastroenterology centre, centre for blood disorders, IVF centre etc, which are targeted at stake holders specifically and generally looking for high quality information about these medical conditions, treatment options as well as facilities offered by Lanka Hospitals. He said.
The development of the new Lanka Hospitals website was carried out following thorough research on how individuals search for healthcare on the internet. More than the design aspect, we concentrated on the search engine optimization functionality based on how Google would rank the website and its pages over a period of time. It is developed to support 2K resolution and is completely moved away from the regular paradigm of web design as the website will continuously evolve according to the user behavior and the trends of the international and national healthcare markets, said Chief Information Officer of Lanka Hospitals, Ruwan Amarasekara.
www.lankahospitals.com, presents unique areas with unique user experiences designed for local and international patients, and will comprise more improvements in interactivity, social media integration and customer self-service facilities for obtaining medical services through the site for the benefit of all users in upcoming phases.
BRUSSELS AFP March2, 2017- The European Parliament on Thursday lifted French far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pens immunity from prosecution over her tweeting of images of Islamic State atrocities.
The move paves the way for France to pursue a case against the far right National Front leader, after prosecutors launched a probe in 2015 over the graphic pictures, which included the decapitated body of US journalist James Foley.
The result is clear, a big majority is in favour of the lifting of immunity, acting parliament speaker Dimitrios Papadimoulis said.
The ruling is effective immediately for Le Pen, a National Front MEP, European Parliament officials told AFP.
But the decision concerns only the tweets, and not a separate probe into allegations that Le Pen misused public funds when hiring a parliamentary aide, they said.
The development is the latest twist in Frances dramatic presidential election campaign, coming a day after rightwing candidate Francois Fillon vowed to continue his bid for power despite the fact he is to be charged over his own fake jobs scandal.
Le Pen addressed the tweets in 2015 to a French television journalist who had likened her party to the jihadist group.
What does Patali know about politics that Harini doesnt know?
Sri Lanka is going through great pains to get its economy in order after the
The Ceylon Motorcyclists Association (CMA) today said they would organize a major protest rally at the Galle face green on Sunday against the gazette issued making it compulsory for motorbike riders and pillion riders to wear protective helmets which do not conceal any part of the wearer's face.
Speaking to the Daily Mirror, CMA Secretary Chirantha Amarasinghe said around 5,000 motorcyclists are expected to attend the rally.
Facebook fans and members of other bike clubs have also confirmed their participation, he said. (Thilanka Kanakarathna)
The Norwegian Government Pension Fund Global has invested US $ 65 million in Sri Lankan stocks in 2016, compared to US $ 31 million in the previous year, a Royal Norwegian Embassy statement said.
The increase in investments is mostly a result of larger ownership in the companies they had already invested in, the statement said.
The Norwegian Government Pension Fund Global is a sovereign wealth fund, with a mandate to safeguard and administer the Norwegian governments revenue from the oil and gas sector.
Valued at US $ 890 billion, the fund is one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world, currently holding about 1.3 percent of the worlds stocks.
On appointment by the Norwegian Ministry of Finance, the fund is managed by the Norwegian Central Bank through the Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM).
NBIM made its first investments in Sri Lanka in 2015.
The fact that NBIM started to invest in Sri Lanka suggests that, the Sri Lankan investments opportunities and market standards have improved in the last couple of years, the embassy statement said.
In line with the goal to reduce risks, the Sri Lankan investments are diversified across several sectors. The biggest investments have been made in the industrial and financial services sectors with 63 percent of the total investment.
At present 16 percent of the funds investments are placed in Asia. Japan is the biggest market with 9 percent of the funds total equity placements, while emerging economies such as China and India have respectively 2.7 percent and 1 percent of the equity placements. Also, 0.6 percent of the equity is placed in Africa.
The fund historically has invested most money in highly developed countries. About 78 percent of its investments are currently placed in Europe and in North America.
However, this is likely to change as the Norwegian Central Bank has indicated that they will shift more of their investments toward emerging economies in the future.
As one of the largest sovereign funds, the Norwegian Government Pension Fund Global has received global attention, and Norway has been put on the map as an international investor.
The Fund is not only distinguished by its sheer size, but also by how it is administrated. NBIM conducts what they call responsible investments, meaning that all investments must be ethically justifiable.
Firms that are deemed unethical by the funds Council of Ethics are excluded from the fund.
One of the fundamental principles of the Norwegian fiscal policy is the so-called budgetary rule. It states, the government may only spend the expected real return of the fund, estimated at 4 percent per year.
This ensures that future generations will also benefit from the petroleum revenue.
Meanwhile, the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Colombo emphasized that the Norwegian Central Bank is completely independent from the Norwegian government and therefore, the fund is not used as an instrument of the Norwegian governments foreign policy, or as a tool in foreign aid.
The only mandate for the Norwegian Central Bank is to safeguard and ensure further growth of the fund.
Therefore, the investments in Sri Lanka from the Norwegian sovereign wealth fund are an indication of the investor confidence and the potential investment opportunities that are availab
Paris, (Daily MAil), 02.03.2017 - The Parisan home of French presidential candidate Francois Fillon was raided by police today as he prepared to make a campaign speech 450 miles away.
Mr Fillon faces prison over a burgeoning fake jobs scandal involving his British-born
wife Penelope.
The couple, both 62, have been summoned before a judge where they face being indicted for a range of charges including embezzlement, which is punishable by up to ten years in prison.
Judicial police working to the examining magistrates today entered Mr Fillons Paris flat and gathered evidence connected to the case, according to an investigating source.Mr Fillon was meanwhile in the southern city of Nimes, preparing to speak at an election meeting tonight.
Both the Fillons are expect to be charged on March 15th just five weeks before France goes to the polls to chose its next head of state.
REUTERS: The Sri Lankan rupee was slightly higher in dull trade yesterday as exporter dollar sales surpassed demand for the greenback by importers, dealers said.
Rupee forwards were active, with two-week forwards trading at 151.85/95 per dollar at 0602 GMT, compared with Thursdays close of 151.90/152.00.
However, dealers said the rupee would be under pressure due to dollar demand from importers ahead of the traditional Sinhala-Tamil New Year in mid-April, and as foreign investors continue to sell government securities.
Sentiment was also hit after ratings agency Moodys said in a report that lower agricultural exports and higher imports to make up for the loss in domestic production would weigh on the current account deficit and foreign exchange reserves.
The governments handouts to farming families affected by drought could make the fiscal deficit target a challenge, Moodys added.
Lower agricultural output due to the drought will force the government to increase imports, dealers said. For further imports, the government needs more U.S. currency while there will be fewer dollars coming in from agriculture commodity exports. Both will increase the demand for the greenback and put pressure on the rupee.
Sri Lankas fuel imports in January jumped to double the typical monthly levels, with the country rushing to plug an energy shortfall as severe drought hits its hydropower output, industry sources said.
Foreign investors sold a net Rs.15.37 billion ($101.62 million) of government securities in the week ended Feb. 22, extending the outflow from such instruments to Rs.64.5 billion.
Sri Lanka could face balance-of-payments pressure due to foreign outflows from government securities, a government document showed last month, even as the island nation was in the process of raising up to $2.5 billion from foreign borrowing.
The rupee has weakened 1 percent so far this year. It fell 3.9 percent last year, following a 10 percent drop in 2015.
Sri Lankan shares were down 0.06 percent at 6,123.57, as of 0606 GMT. Turnover stood at Rs.152.3 million ($1.01 million).
Social Empowerment and Welfare Deputy Minister Ranjan Ramanayake, who refused to issue a letter requesting the extension of a sand mining permit, said today that his secretary had issued it without his knowledge using the seal which has his signature.
A secretary in my office has issued that letter using the seal and my letter head when I was not in the office. I have given a seal which carries my signature to my office at Divulapitiya as I often go out of office. The secretary has been interdicted following the incident, he said.
The deputy minister said he would never issue such letters while fighting to protect the environment from illegal sand miners.
When asked whether he was against sand mining he said it should be done legally and under the supervision of the Geological and Mines Bureau.
This is a business. It should be done legally. We cannot stop it and import sand and stones. At least 48 people have died because of illegal sand mining in Divulapitiya. The government loses million of rupees because of such activities, the deputy minister said. (Ajith Siriwardana)
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1 JULY BDO STATE AND LOCAL TAX ALERT 1 SUBJECT CONNECTICUT ENACTS MANDATORY UNITARY COMBINED REPORTING, IMPOSES NEW LIMITATIONS ON NET OPERATING LOSSES AND TAX CREDITS, AND MAKES SALES AND USE AND PERSONAL INCOME TAX CHANGES SUMMARY On June 30, 2015, Connecticut Governor Dan Malloy (D) signed into law House Bill 7061 and Senate Bill 1502, which together enact significant changes to the corporate income tax law, including the adoption of mandatory unitary combined reporting for tax years beginning after December 31, 2015, more restrictive limitations on the use of net operating loss carryforwards and tax credits for tax years beginning after December 31, 2014, the extension of the 20% corporate income tax surcharge through 2017, and the adoption of a 10% surcharge beginning in The enactment of these bills also causes several changes to: (i) the sales and use tax law (e.g., a change to the payment and return due date for monthly filers, and the expansion of taxable services to include creation, development, hosting, and maintenance of a website); and (ii) the personal income tax law (e.g., increases in tax rates, and delays to the increase in the personal exemption and the income thresholds used for purposes of reducing personal income tax credits). DETAILS CORPORATE TAX CHANGES MANDATORY UNITARY COMBINED REPORTING Effective tax years beginning after December 31, 2015, a corporation with Connecticut nexus is required to report income on a unitary combined basis with its combined group. A combined group for these purposes, unless elected otherwise, is determined on a water s-edge basis and is generally CONTACT: WEST: ROCKY CUMMINGS, Tax Partner / PAUL MCGOVERN, Tax Senior Director / NORTHEAST: JANET BERNIER, Tax Partner / MATTHEW DYMENT, Tax Principal / SOUTHEAST: ASHLEY MORRIS, Tax Senior Director / SCOTT SMITH, Tax Senior Director / ATLANTIC: JONATHAN LISS, Tax Senior Director / JEREMY MIGLIARA, Tax Senior Director / CENTRAL: ANGELA ACOSTA, Tax Senior Director / NICK BOEGEL, Tax Senior Director / JOE CARR, Tax Principal / MARIANO SORI, Tax Partner / RICHARD SPENGLER, Tax Senior Director / SOUTHWEST: GENE HEATLY, Tax Senior Director / TOM SMITH, Tax Partner /
2 BDO STATE AND LOCAL TAX ALERT 2 comprised of the following types of corporations that have common ownership and are engaged in a unitary business : (i) U.S. corporations with 80% or more of their property and payroll located in the U.S.; (ii) non-u.s. corporations with 20% or more of their property and payroll in the U.S. or that are incorporated in tax haven jurisdictions; and (iii) corporations that derive more than 20% of their income from payments for intangible property or service-related activities deductible from the income of other members of the combined group (but only to the extent of the related income and the apportionment factors). Common Ownership and Unitary Reporting Two or more corporations are under common ownership where, when applying Section 318 of the Internal Revenue Code, more than 50% of the voting control of each corporation is directly or indirectly owned by the same owner or owners whether corporate or non-corporate, and regardless of whether the owner or owners are members of the combined group. Unitary business for these purposes means a single economic enterprise, whether separate parts of a single business entity or a group of business entities, that is sufficiently independent, integrated or interrelated through activities so as to provide mutual benefit and produce a significant sharing or exchange of value among such entities, or a significant flow of value among the separate parts. World-Wide and Affiliated Group Reporting Elections As an alternative to reporting on a water s-edge basis, a combined group may make an election on a timely filed, original return to report on a world-wide basis (generally disregarding the entity restrictions imposed on a water s-edge group) or as an affiliated group. Once made, the election is binding for the current and subsequent ten (10) taxable years. An affiliated group for Connecticut purposes is generally the same as a federal income tax affiliated group with certain modifications, including a requirement to include a corporation in the Connecticut affiliated group even if it is included in the federal consolidated return of a different group. A Connecticut affiliated group may even include a corporation formed in a tax haven jurisdiction. Income Tax Liability The Connecticut corporate income tax applies only to a corporation that is subject to the corporate income tax (a Taxable Member ). A taxable member s tax liability is a product of the combined group s net income, the taxable member s Connecticut apportionment factor, and the applicable tax rate (currently 7.5%). Combined Net Income A combined group s net income is determined by adding the net income of every taxable and nontaxable member and deferring/eliminating intercompany transactions in a manner similar to the federal consolidated return rules. For this purpose, each member s net income is its separate company federal taxable income, which is then subject to certain adjustments (in addition to the standard additions and subtractions). These adjustments include the elimination of intercompany dividends, removal of gain or loss from the sale or exchange of capital assets, property used in a trade or business (i.e., property described in Section 1231(a)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code), and property subject to an involuntary conversion. The net income (and apportionment) of a non-u.s. corporation that is not required to file a federal income tax return is determined on the basis of a profit and loss statement prepared in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ( GAAP ). This amount is then adjusted to take into account any book-tax differences required by federal or Connecticut law. Apportionment Formula A taxable member calculates its own apportionment percentage. The property, payroll, and sales factors of a taxable member are determined by dividing its Connecticut property, payroll, and sales by the combined group s everywhere property, payroll, and sales. The Connecticut sales of a taxable member includes its proportionate share of each nontaxable member s Connecticut sales factor as if the nontaxable member were subject to tax, which, in turn, is determined by the ratio of the taxable member s Connecticut sales to the Connecticut sales of the combined group. Transactions among combined group members are eliminated for purposes of determining the numerator and denominator of the apportionment factors.
3 BDO STATE AND LOCAL TAX ALERT 3 Net Deferred Tax Liability Deduction Publicly traded companies participating in the filing of a publicly traded company s GAAP financial statements as of January 1, 2016, are eligible for a net deferred tax liability deduction if the new unitary combined reporting requirements result in an aggregate increase or decrease in the members net deferred tax liability or net deferred tax asset, respectively. The deduction may be claimed in equal amounts for a seven-year period beginning in the combined group s first income year that begins in Any unused amount may be carried forward until fully utilized. To claim the deduction, a combined group must file a statement with the Department of Revenue Services by July 1, 2017, that specifies the total amount of the deduction to be claimed. NOLs and Credits Each taxable member of a combined group separately calculates its NOLs and credits, which it may carryforward to the extent allowed or share with another member of the combined group if the other member was a member of the combined group during the taxable year the NOL or credit was generated. A NOL or credit arising from a taxable year during which a corporation was not a member of the combined group may generally only be used by the corporation that generated it. Capital Gains and Losses Capital gains and losses removed from the income of a member are aggregated, apportioned to each member, and added to each taxable member s income. A loss apportioned to a member that is limited by Section 1211 of the Internal Revenue Code must be carried forward and treated as a short-term capital loss apportioned and incurred by that member for the year for which the carryover applies. Capital Base Tax Similar to the income tax, a combined group s capital base is the aggregate of the capital base of each taxable and nontaxable member. Intercorporate stockholdings are eliminated to avoid double counting. A taxable member s apportionment percentage is then applied to determine its apportioned capital base for purposes of computing its capital base tax. Also similar to the income tax, the numerator of a taxable member s capital base tax apportionment factor is comprised of its Connecticut property, and the denominator is comprised of the aggregated everywhere property of nontaxable and taxable members. If the aggregate amount of tax calculated on each taxable member s capital base exceeds the $1 million cap, each taxable member prorates its tax in proportion to the group's tax calculated without regard to the cap so that the group's aggregate additional tax equals $1 million. Designated Taxable Member The designated taxable member of the combined group makes all elections, files returns, and makes tax payments, including estimated tax payments, on behalf of the combined group. The designated taxable member is the common parent if it is a taxable member. If no such common parent exists, the designated taxable member is a taxable member selected by the combined group, notification of which must be made to the Department of Revenue Services by the due date (as extended) of the combined group s combined return for the initial taxable year that the return is required. NOL AND TAX CREDIT LIMITATIONS Effective for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2014, an NOL carryforward is subject to a new 50% of apportioned net income limitation, and the amount of tax credits that may be used may not exceed 50.01% of the amount of tax due. Under old law, the credit limitation was 70%. A combined group with over $6 billion in unutilized NOLs arising from taxable years beginning prior to January 1, 2013, may make a special election on its return for its taxable year beginning in 2015 regarding the utilization of NOLs.
4 BDO STATE AND LOCAL TAX ALERT 4 SURCHARGE AND PREFERENCE TAX The new law extends the 20% surcharge, which was previously set to expire for taxable years beginning before January 1, 2016, to taxable years beginning prior to January 1, For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017, corporations will be subject to a 10% surcharge. A corporation with less than $100 million in annual gross income during the taxable year will not be subject to the 10% surcharge, unless it files as part of a combined return. Effective for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2015, the new law repeals the preference tax that is intended to recapture some or all of the tax benefit derived from the filing of a combined return under the elective combined return regime. SALES AND USE TAX CHANGES Following are some of the more notable sales and use tax changes in the new law: Effective July 1, 2015, the tax rate on luxury goods, which applies to motor vehicles with a sales price exceeding $50,000, jewelry with a sales price exceeding $5,000, and clothing, footwear and certain accessories with a sales price exceeding $1,000, increased from 7% to 7.75%. Effective July 1, 2015, car wash services, including coin-operated car washes, are subject to tax. Effective October 1, 2015, taxable computer and data processing services are defined to include services related to the creation, development, hosting and maintenance of a website, and are, therefore, taxable. Effective October 1, 2015, the deadline for remitting and filing monthly sales and use tax returns will change from the 20 th day of the month to the last day of the month following the month covered by the return. PERSONAL INCOME TAX CHANGES Following are some of the more notable personal income tax changes in the new law: Effective January 1, 2015, a 6.99% marginal tax bracket has been added for single filers with more than $500,000 in Connecticut taxable income, head of household filers with more than $800,000 in Connecticut taxable income, and joint filers with more than $1 million in Connecticut taxable income. Effective January 1, 2015, the 6.7% marginal rate increased to 6.9% and the flat income tax rate for trusts and estates increased from 6.7% to 6.99%. The scheduled $500 increase for the personal exemption from $14,500 to $15,000 has been delayed until January 1, The scheduled increase for the income thresholds used for purposes of reducing personal income tax credits has been delayed until January 1, The increase to the earned income tax credit percentage from 27.5% to 30% has been delayed until January 1, Effective January 1, 2015, federally taxable military pay is fully exempt from Connecticut income tax.
5 BDO STATE AND LOCAL TAX ALERT 5 BDO INSIGHTS Connecticut s change to mandatory combined reporting will likely present a significant departure from current law for many taxpayers since, Connecticut has historically required separate reporting, unless a taxpayer elected to file on a federal consolidated or unitary combined basis. Regardless, taxpayers should consider modeling the tax impact of filing combined returns on a water s-edge, worldwide or an affiliated group basis to ascertain which reporting method may be most advantageous. But do note that an election to file on a worldwide or affiliated group basis is binding for the current and subsequent 10 tax years. Connecticut has provided taxpayers that are publicly traded companies with a unique net deferred tax liability deduction to mitigate the financial statement impact of the law changes. However, the benefit of the deduction applies only to a combined group that has a taxable member in Since the new law was enacted on June 30, 2015, taxpayers should assess what, if any, impact these law changes would have on their existing deferred tax balances and adjust accordingly as of the enactment date. Due to the sales and use tax changes, taxpayers that have not historically charged sales tax on car wash services or services related to creation, development, hosting, and maintenance of a website should implement procedures to ensure the collection and remittance of sales and use tax on such services. The increases to the personal income tax rates, which were made retroactively effective to January 1, 2015, may impact employers and individuals who have likely been withholding taxes and making estimated tax payments based on old tax rates. These taxpayers will likely be required to make adjustments to their withholdings and estimated taxes to compensate for the differences resulting from the rate increases. Connecticut has exempted individuals from interest assessments due to an underpayment in estimated taxes created by the rate changes. The Tax Practice at BDO is among the largest tax advisory practices in the United States. With 58 offices and more than 400 independent alliance firm locations in the United States, BDO has the bench strength and coverage to serve you. BDO is the brand name for BDO USA, LLP, a U.S. professional services firm providing assurance, tax, financial advisory and consulting services to a wide range of publicly traded and privately held companies. For more than 100 years, BDO has provided quality service through the active involvement of experienced and committed professionals. The firm serves clients through 58 offices and over 400 independent alliance firm locations nationwide. As an independent Member Firm of BDO International Limited, BDO serves multinational clients through a global network of 1,328 offices in 152 countries. BDO USA, LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership, is the U.S. member of BDO International Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, and forms part of the international BDO network of independent member firms. BDO is the brand name for the BDO network and for each of the BDO Member Firms. For more information, please visit Material discussed in this tax alert is meant to provide general information and should not be acted on without professional advice tailored to your firm's individual needs BDO USA, LLP. All rights reserved.
Syrian regime fighters take position as they advance to retake the ancient city of Palmyra, from Islamic State (IS)(AFP)
BEIRUT AFP March2, 2017- Syrian troops backed by Russian jets completed the recapture of the historic city of Palmyra from the Islamic State group Thursday, the Kremlin said, in another blow to the jihadists. Bolstered by air strikes and ground troops from their ally Moscow, Syrian government forces battled through the desert for weeks to reach Palmyra.
The oasis city has traded hands several times during Syrias six-year civil war and become a symbol of ISs wanton destruction of priceless cultural heritage in areas under its control.
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed President Vladimir Putin of Palmyras recapture, a Kremlin spokesman told news agencies in Moscow.
From right: Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC Managing Director S.R. Gnanam hands over the sponsorship contribution to The Music Project Trustee Shalini Wickramasuriya
Tokyo Cement announced partnering with The Music Project, a non-profit initiative dedicated to empowering and uplifting the lives of children through music.
The partnership will see Tokyo Cement sponsoring three schools two in Mullaitivu and another from Mawathagama, Kurunegala, to further their music education. Nearly 140 students from Yohapuram MV and Therankandal MV of Mullaitivu and 50 students from Gunananda MV of Kurunegala will benefit from this collaboration that will enhance their music education during the year 2017.
Speaking on the occasion of forming the funding partnership, Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC Managing Director S.R. Gnanam said, The Music Project aims to unite communities through children who love to learn music. By working with farming communities in the North and South of Sri Lanka who come from similar backgrounds, the project links these families who unanimously want to create better opportunities for their children, regardless of their race or religion.
Not just in music, the programme aspires to develop finer values in these children through respect for each other as they strive to achieve greater goals. We, at Tokyo Cement, are proud to be part of this far-reaching endeavour and hope to see these children reach their highest potential by tapping into their musical genius.
Now in its fifth year, The Music Project aims to make music accessible to children from all corners of the country who do not have access to required facilities. In addition to the many events and venues at which the children get to perform, it also conducts residential programmes alternatively in Kurunegala and Mullaitivu, giving the children of two formerly divided communities an opportunity to connect as a family united in music. The children of the North and South work alongside their peers, sharing musical scores and their lives while working and practicing together to make the orchestra happen.
At Therankandal MV in Mallavi, Mullaitivu currently 40 students practice during sessions conducted every Friday before the commencement of school. The heart-warming sight of young children accompanied by their parents from various walks of life, bustling to take their seats inside the meagre common room early morning is encouragement enough for the young teachers and volunteer instructors conducting the programme.
During the sessions, these students learn to play orchestral instruments including the recorder, flute, violin, cello, trumpet, clarinet and a wide variety percussion instruments. They have the benefit of learning from specialist instructors dedicated to the project as well as volunteers who visit from various parts of the world, who whet their appetite to learn the universal language that breaks all forms of barriers.
The Music Project, inspired by El Sisitema of Venezuela, aims to create opportunities for children to learn music through holistic teaching methods. We hope that the programme is a stepping stone for the children to be able to make choices or simply avail of a passion. We trust that orchestral participation instils valuable life skills such as collaboration, creativity, a sense of performance and thereby confidence and motivation.
We also feel that in the absence of an effective link language, the project has the potential, through music, to be platform to forge connections between the children of diverse communities. The programme has two locations in the north and south of Sri Lanka and we hope that the children of two farming communities would feel part of a global music community and their broadened horizons would enable them to fulfil a passion, said The Music Project Trustee Shalini Wickramasuriya, commenting on the benefits of the initiative.
The project is made possible by the generous contributions by philanthropists and leading corporations who believe in the power of music to heal and to bridge divides. Tokyo Cement comes forward as a sponsor this year, owing to their belief in building the foundation for tomorrows leaders through programmes such as this that encourage children to explore the world using exciting new tools and not be limited by standardised education.
Tokyo Cement has successfully integrated social welfare and environmental conservation into its corporate DNA and is on a continuous mission to enrich the country, its people and the environment. Its commitment to social responsibility breathes life through initiatives such as the Tokyo Cement Schools Super Quiz programme, the AYS Gnanam Construction Training Academy in Dambulla, which offers technical qualifications and accreditations to masons and builders and the partnership with the Foundation of Goodness, multiple environmental education programmes and impactful conservation drives such as Coral Reef Rehabilitation and Mangrove Reforestation.
Why chop ourselves to fit anywhere? Why not chop the world instead, stitch it, sew it and leave the hem unattended so it can give us the length and hope for freedom. Isnt that the ultimate salvation? Aren't we all fighting to be free? Aren't we all afraid of freedom, which is absolute and means not to be restricted by ideas of love or misplaced context of security via marriage and by defined limits of sexuality?
Former Harper's editor, the fashionably quirky Vreeland asked in 1936 for her Harpers Bazaar column, Why dont you paint a map of the world on all four walls of your boys nursery so they wont grow up with a provincial point of view?
Instead we painted the rooms pink and blue and stacked the shelves with pretty fragile looking dolls with porcelain complexion and flaxen fair or fighter jets and tankers. We only expressed ourselves in binaries of gender and never questioned why we played with a grown up Barbie and Ken as young girls. We never dared to ask ourselves what all of this meant and where it would lead us. We aspired to be Barbie.
We decided to feature her in our fashion special - The Song of Fire and Ice. Not as a charity case but nobody would have fit the bill better than her. Photo: India Today
We f*cked ourselves in the process, restricted ourselves and chained ourselves to stupid notions of beauty. Growing up, I didnt have a pink room. I never liked pink. It was too soft a shade for me. But then, we couldnt have afforded a pink room for a child then. And thank god for that.
In 2014, an Argentinian woman discovered that her toy doll had a little plastic penis, which could be moved up and down and even hidden depending on whether one wanted her to she or he or both and such gender situations cause disturbances in adults rather than children.
In any case, a transgender doll existing would help us a great deal in dispelling our biases and make lives easier for thousands of transgender people across the world.
I wish I had a trans doll. Many years later there appeared a drag Barbie called The Blonds Blond Diamond Barbie Doll modelled after drag artist Phillipe Blond.
In 2006, the CWA, a Christian conservative group, got after Barbies makers Mattel for offering a third gender option "I Dont Know" for barbie.com. Mattel later said the option should have been "I Dont Want to Say" and thats where the problem lies in taking up a stand. I wish Mattel had the guts.
On Facebook, "Transgender Barbie Acasia" exists but isnt avialble in shops. In any case, I dont play with dolls anymore. And if I had a girl, Id make her a customized trans doll so she doesnt grow up in a restrictive world of binaries of gender.
It took me many years to understand that there was some truth to what Virginia Woolf said in A Room of Ones Own that it is fatal to be a man or woman pure and simple; one must be woman-manly or man-womanly... and after my first assignment in New York where I was almost embedded with a transgender woman trying to understand why she would buy so many red lace bras, I knew what she meant when she said to me that freedom is painful and it leads to estrangement and hence, very few of us remain slaves to notions. But then, she said, try wearing the right shoe in the wrong foot.
I couldnt walk. I chose freedom. So did Frances and so did Anjali Lama, the first transgender model to walk the ramp at the recently concluded Lakme Fashion Week.
***
But that's just part of the problem. We don't have fashion editors like Diane Vreeland say important things that could mean a total dismantling of the status quo but we need people like her. We don't need sensationalism. We need stories that could empower people like me and Lama and anyone who seeks to break the label tags. We need hope.
I am extremely amused to see my own friends yearn for love and men as if it were the only natural corollary of being a woman. It makes me angry. They make the battle even more difficult.
And now, moving on to Lama, a beautiful transgender woman from Nepal, who is 32 and wants to make that one dream of hers come true. And in her dream, lies my ambition of breaking free from gender shackles. I am a single woman. Often I have wondered about what it means to be a woman. Is it to be oppressed by the ideas of beauty?
To be a woman is to be able to find an uninterrupted sky, a patch of grass and to walk without prejudices, without fear. It is to walk to nowhere and leave the pretensions of getting somewhere because it doesn't matter. And any of us could be a man or a woman or anybody else. Why must gender be the primary identity? Aren't we and what we hold enough for us to mark our place under the sun?
What does it mean to be me? Or is? It is to embrace the sudden glint of mercurial desire, to stare at ones body as if you could paint landscapes or write poetry on it, to see it as an artist would with a million possibilities and a million narratives. A person contains multitudes of worlds. We are the tesseracts. We are the light and the black hole, presence and absence, future and present and a reminder of the past. Sail on, sail on, we must tell ourselves.
A woman must be able to cup her breasts, feel her thighs and say to the world - Here I am and here is now and take me or leave me. I am contained within myself. A transgender should be able to cup her face and say to the world Look at me. I am beauty. I am freedom.
***
I stumbled upon Anjali Lama on social network first. Hailed by everyone as the first transgender model to walk the ramp for Lakme Fashion Week, she was media's darling androgynous and transgender model but having been around for a decade, I knew this was just a story, an initial fascination, a crash course journalists are prone to indulge in.
I looked for her, found her and spoke to her and of course like everyone else, we wrote her story. A limited edition kind of story. A cool kind of story for us, the reporters, who want to add offbeat stuff to their repertoire of stories of the usual kind. But Lama isnt breaking news. She needs work.
She is here to make it in the modeling world and beyond the initial infatuation of the media with her story and beyond the lines of activism, the larger narrative is about the biases all of us carry toward those who are born different or choose to step outside the norms.
We decided to feature her in our fashion special - The Song of Fire and Ice. Not as a charity case but nobody would have fit the bill better than her.
I thought gold is priceless because it is untarnished and resistant to oxidation and silver is resilient as it lets the maximum heat pass through it and who else but Lama could sing that song for us. We weren't trying to prove a point. We just thought gender roles and constructs like those are overrated. It doesn't matter in the spectrum of gender if you are a pure woman or man or others.
I dismissed notions of heteronormative constructs long ago. Sexuality is a personal choice. I am happy to see designers in the west take up causes and try and be more political.
It is disappointing that Indian designers, at least many of them, including stylists, are often led by the imposed notions of beauty and one of them had once said to me how he was good at making people beautiful and that's what he would do. It wasn't feasible for him to delve into political and social contexts. It was quite disappointing for a young gay man to talk in these safe ways.
We call our story Nemesis because Lama made it to the cover. Not because she is transgender and we were trying to be cool. But because she represents the amalgamation of the metals. Her song is rugged and pure.
She is innocent. She and I can both understand the pain of being a minority. Women is a caste. Transgender is another caste. We are on the margins still and if Lama can be courageous and walk the ramp with her head held high, we should see it as hope. We need all the allies that we can gather. She is one of us. She represents our dreams and failures. She is the Nemesis.
It is easy to dismiss any attempts by fashion at being earnest by saying it is all tokenism but we must never undermine the impact of aesthetics. Art reflects our era, our evolution and exposes us in our denials. I am no advocate for fashion. I'd rather look at fashion as a story of our collective expressions.
I am neither a stylist nor a fashion writer. What we worked with was a concept that let us work with metals and human spirit. Lama comes from a small village in Nepal where she had not known what it means to be a transgender. But at the end of it all, it is a story of courage against all odds, of betrayals and abandonment, of dreams and failures and of constantly reminding oneself that perhaps the world isn't ruthless enough to break the human spirit and that it can't. Some models and agencies refused to be shot with her calling her a nobody and a transgender and I wish they had been more dignified.
***
I was a stranger on the other end. But I guess it is easier to confide in strangers about loss and other such things. At the end of the day, women and those choosing to be are gutsy. We strive to be us and the first battle pitch should be against the impositions of beauty standards and gender roles and perhaps fashion needs to be more political and fight with us because body is memory and our memories define us. Clothes are our projections. Fashion is personal and personal is political. Why make it so frivolous and pretty? Can we be anti-pretty? Can we dare? Can we break free?
Lama told me all this one night.
"I remember my village. There were mountains and a mother and a father and brothers and sisters. I remember the last time I went to my village. That was when my mother passed away. I cried all the way. She had told me once that it didn't matter whether I was a son or a daughter. I was her child like the rest. She had known all along that I wanted to be a girl. She would come to meet me. My mother told me this world is a tough place and I should keep on trying in the face of failures. It was a terrible loss. She was the only one I had. My mother knew my heart.
I used to keep reminding myself "I am a boy" and try and behave like men.
But it made me sad. I suffered throughout my childhood. There was a deep anguish. I didn't know what ailed me. I wanted to be a girl but I was afraid. In that remote hamlet nestled in the mountains with four or five houses and about 150 kilometres away from Kathmandu, I knew I hadn't belonged. They made fun of me at school. I never said anything. In my village in those days, we knew you had to be what were born as.
They were innocent. There was no television. There was no window to the outside world. After my high school, I came to Kathmandu and started to work in a restaurant to fund my college. We were poor and I struggled with keeping jobs. The employers would taunt me. They would say that because of my ways they were losing customers. I went through so much rejection but that was only the beginning.
In 2005, I was watching a television show called Sangarsh with my neighbours and the particular episode was about transgender and I thought these were my people and I wasn't alone anymore. I had been suffering with low self-esteem. The men around me started taunting looking at the transponders in the show and suddenly I felt less lonely. I set out to look for them.
I always remembered my mother told me that courage is the only way out. One night when I was returning from work, I saw two transgendered women walking to a night club and I followed them and accosted them. I told them I wanted to be a woman all my life. I told them I wanted to be with them. I told them I wanted to put makeup.
They looked at me and said it was brave of me to say all of this and gave them a number. I called the next morning and went to meet them at the Blue Diamond Society, an LGBTS rights organisation working for sexual minorities in a conservative country like Nepal. They counselled me and I started to work with them as an activist and moved in with a friend. My adoptive mother rechristened me as Anjali Lama.
I had wanted to be called Sonali because I really liked Sonali Bendre, the Bollywood actress, but Mamta Khan, my other mother in the transgender community, said Anjali would be the perfect name for me and we laughed. I had left my lodgings.
My brothers found me and asked me if I was transgender and I said I was and they asked me never to come home. I was the fifth child among seven that my mother birthed. My sisters would keep in touch and my mother would talk over the phone and visit me sometimes when she came to the city. But my father never spoke to me after I came out. We still don't talk.
That's a loss I don't want to talk about. But I had to be brave. I had to live my life despite everything. I was a pretty boy. My friends often said I should be a model. But it was enough struggle to survive in a society that treated us like outcastes. Modelling was never on my mind.
But in 2009, a national magazine in Nepal called Voice of Women decided to do a feature on the transgender community of Kathmandu and put Anjali Lama on the cover and that's when I thought I could be a model. But nobody approached me. Nobody gave me any work. So I decided to join a school for modelling and did a one month course but when they came to audition models, I was never selected. I asked the owner of the school and she said it was because I was transgendered.
To come this far and get rejected made me sad. I used to go to this boutique called Crossroad where Subexya Bhadel, a designer, became a friend. and she was going to have a show and I asked her if I could model for her. She said I could. That was my first break but then I auditioned for Nepal Fashion Week thrice and got rejected. I had decided to be brave about my gender identity and I had told the press I was transgender and that's when I became Nepal's first transgender model.
The press wrote about me but a section of fashion designers were against me. In 2010 I went for breast augmentation in Bangkok with my savings. I felt very happy. At least I could have part of what I always wanted - to be a woman. I was lucky to have no facial hair. I had started growing my hair since 2006.
I always dreamed of becoming an international model. Nepal gave me a break but it was touch so I came to India after researching online about Lakme Fashion Week. I first came in February 2016 and was not selected.
I was broken and bent and returned to Nepal to my job as an activist and tried to forget about modelling as a career or a dream. I was past 30 years of age. But then I wanted it so badly that I was almost obsessed with becoming an international model. So, I saved up money and returned to Mumbai in June for the audition for the Autumn/Winter season at Lakme Fashion Week. I was rejected again.
I came back. Then I remembered what my mother had told me - never give up. My friend was going to Mumbai and I asked him if I could stay with him in Mumbai and figure out. He said yes. This was my final flight. I had heard that one must always take risks and I left my job and came to Mumbai in November last year. I wrote to modelling agencies.
I didn't have a portfolio shot by big photographers. I had very little money and it was running out. Nobody wrote back to me. I spent countless hours in dark room thinking about my life. And then, I saw that Lakme Fashion Week was again having its auditions in December. I had about two weeks. I started exercising.
I decided to understand why I had failed. I had been nervous to see the girls. My gender was hidden between my legs. I was honest. I had written to Lakme asking if a transgender could audition and they said I could. I downloaded the videos of audition, I practised my walk, I learned to hold my gaze.
This was the final frontier for me. For 10 days, I trained myself. I taught myself not to be daunted by anything. This time around I was going to make mistake. This time I wasn't going to care.
I wasn't rejected.
I have come a long way from being born as Nabin Wabia from Nuwakot in Nepal, a lost child who wept during the nights because he didn't know what was wrong with him.
China this week announced its ambitious plan to double the length of the countrys entire bullet train network already the worlds longest by 2020, which will involve laying 14,000km of new track.
Chinas bullet train network or high-speed rail (HSR) as it is known here is already the worlds longest. As of last year, the total track length crossed 16,000km a remarkable feat considering that the first HSR line, between Beijing and Tianjin, only went into operation in 2008. The new five-year plan (2016-2020) says the track length will reach 30,000km by 2020. The ambitious goal is to connect 113 cities by bullet train, and to link four out of every five cities with a one million-plus population.
The debate about how viable HSR trains are has been heated in India, which is slowly going forward with its first bullet train links. Land acquisition as HSR trains run on entirely separate track and costs have been cited as two obstacles. The first of the two, at least, shouldnt be a concern for India, Chinese planners say, citing their own experience where a large percentage of the network runs on elevated track that runs above farmland, thus alleviating the need for acquisitions along the routes.
China this week announced its ambitious plan to double the length of the countrys entire bullet train network.
The major acquisitions were for stations. Here, the argument is the stations will be hubs of development enveloped by surrounding development projects and will help create jobs and spur the local economy.
At the same time, China is making a heavy loss on its HSR investments. But the government argues this is a public investment that will bear fruits in the long run. Rapid connectivity and opening up hitherto inaccessible cities, the government hopes, will yield an economic dividend. Officials this week cited the example of tourism during the February Lunar New Year holiday, which they said grew 16 per cent domestically, largely facilitated by travel to newly opened up cities on the HSR network.
There are other indirect dividends. A study by Tencent, an Internet company that examined travel patterns of commuters, found an increasing number of people who were now moving not to already overcrowded tier-one cities but to satellite towns, and commuting using the HSR network.
The development of faster public transport is the key to this, and the high property prices in cities like Shanghai and Beijing are the main drivers, the study said. One of its case-studies was a pharmaceutical company employee in Shanghai, who because of high rents there found housing in the city of Kunshan, 55km away.
I take high-speed rails and subways, and thats not bad since I live near the highspeed train station in Kunshan, he said. It estimated that around one per cent of Shanghais population more than a quarter of a million people were commuting over 40km every day.
Based on our data, people who travel longer to work live near railways stations highspeed trains and subways, Liu Chang, the R&D Director of Tencent Location Based Services, told state media. The trend is growing.
News of the mysterious death of Army sahayak Roy Mathew, exactly a week after he appeared in a sting that showed soldiers like him doing menial jobs in Deolali Cantt of Maharashtra, has left a trail of uncomfortable questions about the pressures felt by those in the uniform.
Mathew went missing on February 25, a day after he and several other soldiers were seen attending to the children and dogs of senior officers in the sting which the website has removed since his death.
Roy Mathew was found hanging from the ceiling of a room in his garrison. Photo: Maharashtra Times
Mathew, recounting his buddy duties, had highlighted the deplorable conditions in which soldiers who are meant to serve the nation survive, much like the recent appeals made by other soldiers like BSF jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav as well as Lance Naik Yagya Pratap Singh.
Days after his video on how soldiers of his company were served far from nutritious, substandard food went viral on social media, BSF jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav made yet another appeal on March 3, claiming he is being harassed mentally and his phone compromised to show he has friends in Pakistan.
The veracity of their claims cannot be verified without independent investigations, but as more such harrowing disclosures emerge from serving soldiers, it is important to ask why no concrete proof of inspection or reports on their working conditions has been released by the defence ministry.
Defence ministry's press release says 'guilt' might have led to the soldier's death. Photo: Twitter
It is telling that these soldiers, recruited after rigorous training and often forced to work in the most trying circumstances, are increasingly taking to social media to appeal to the highest rungs of the government to focus on their terrible plight.
India has 1.3 million active military personnel engaged in the daunting task of not only protecting our borders but also effectively countering any national-level emergency.
From Chennai to Kashmir, we expect these soldiers to combat terror as well as natural calamities, but at what cost?
If a soldier is forced to commit suicide out of sheer guilt, as the defence ministry has suggested in Mathew's case, is it not alarming that the forces are succumbing to extraordinary pressure after speaking up for their dignity?
The brave forces of our country, those who take the oath to risk their lives in the face of monumental challenges, are now breaking down in front of the camera, literally begging to be treated as soldiers and not pawns.
Transcription
1 Reclaiming the Moral Case for Afghanistan By Jamie M. Fly Commentary Magazine April 2012 Following the killing of American soldiers and the recent protests sparked by the accidental burning of Korans by coalition forces, Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich went so far as to suggest that the United States should abandon Afghanistan unless the Afghans apologize, adding that we should tell them, figure out how to live your own miserable life. This is the increasingly frequent refrain of war-weary conservatives who question President Barack Obama s leadership in the conflict, are tired of the war s financial and human toll, and doubt that it is possible, in Gingrich s words, to fix Afghanistan. They are worn out and disheartened, in part because Obama and his administration long ago ceased making the moral case for victory in Afghanistan. It is an American tradition for our leaders to support or oppose America s wars in moral terms. The moral case endows the fight with a meaning beyond a narrow conception of the national interest or the understandable fear of what might happen to the country s standing in the world should we lose the war. But the moral case is one President Obama has barely made, even as he was lengthening and deepening the national commitment to the fight. Now, as the administration attempts to wind down the war in Afghanistan after more than a decade of U.S. involvement, it has left the nation without a clear sense of why America is there and has given the loyal opposition no good reason to argue a case that seems to discomfit the commander-in-chief himself. That is not only a shame; it is a world-historical tragedy in the making. America s commitment to this war was never solely or even primarily about how to fix Afghanistan. It was a response to the horrific September 11, 2001, attacks, plotted from the safety of the country that the Taliban had controlled since That said, even before 9/11, prominent Americans across the political spectrum understood the connection between America s moral and strategic interests in Afghanistan a country United Nations envoy Lakhdar Brahimi described in 1998 as a failed state which looks like an infected wound. You don t even know where to start cleaning it. As international forces toppled the Taliban in the fall of 2001, the coalition s leaders emphasized that, beyond defeating al-qaeda and the Taliban, this was an effort to create a new future for the Afghan people. They promised not to abandon Afghanistan once again, as the United States had done after supporting the mujahideen in their fight to expel the Soviets more than a decade prior. Despite the soaring rhetoric at the war s start, by the time President Obama took office in 2009, many in his party and the country had lost sense of the rationale for staying in Afghanistan and were looking for an exit strategy. Yet, faced with the inescapable logic that such an exit strategy would lead to a disastrous defeat and bolstered by the success of the counterinsurgency efforts in Iraq, the president bucked his base to send additional forces, increasing the number of U.S. troops on the ground by more than 60,000 by In doing so, he implemented although with far fewer boots on the ground than were really needed a strategy that combined America s moral and strategic interests. Where forces could protect the population from the Taliban,
2 saving lives and pushing the bad guys back, they could inoculate the people against future radicalization and strangle the life out of the insurgency. With his reelection looming in November 2012, however, Obama has succumbed to those in his administration who have counseled him to adopt more limited goals. He appears intent on extricating the country from its longest war, in part through a negotiated settlement with the Taliban. The fact that a murderous, backward movement straight out of the Middle Ages is being discussed as a legitimate negotiating partner says much about current U.S. views of the war. The Taliban were once understood by virtually all Americans as the quintessence of murderous barbarism. Now they are being portrayed by senior administration officials as reasonable interlocutors. This pessimism about Afghanistan s prospects on the right and the Pollyannaish fantasy of a reformed Taliban on the left have taken root in large measure because our leaders stopped making the moral case for the war in Afghanistan. What we are left with is an endless, pointless struggle in the dirt. With support for the war dangerously close to bottoming out altogether, it s worth reviewing how we got to this point. The year was 1998 and Hollywood was up in arms over a new social cause: the plight of Afghan women under the repressive rule of the Taliban. Mavis Leno, wife of Jay Leno and chair of the Feminist Majority Foundation s Campaign to Stop Gender Apartheid in Afghanistan, told members of Congress, The U.S. bears some responsibility for the conditions of women in Afghanistan. For years our country provided weapons to the mujahideen groups to fight the Soviets. Leno and the Feminist Majority pushed an extensive U.S. campaign to delegitimize the Taliban until the rights of female Afghans were recognized. The Taliban enforced a strict morality code for both men and women, but women and girls bore the brunt of the most brutal repression. Women were prohibited from working outside the home except in certain fields and, in many cases, from leaving their homes unless accompanied by a close male relative. As the group Physicians for Human Rights noted the same year that Leno gave her briefing, No other regime in the world has methodically and violently forced half of its population into virtual house arrest. In addition to enforcement of laws requiring women to wear a burka completely covering their bodies, schools for girls were closed and basic health care was often denied. It is not surprising that such a moral wasteland came to serve as the staging ground for Osama bin Laden and al-qaeda as they planned the attacks of 9/11. Bin Laden s ideology and that of his Taliban hosts sprang from the same vile swamp. It thus made sense that Western leaders, in preparing a coordinated response to the attacks, began to talk about the looming battle in terms of morality. Their forebears had done much the same in framing conflicts, from the two world wars to the interventions in the Balkans. British Prime Minister Tony Blair, speaking of the victims families he had recently met in New York, told the Labour Party conference three weeks after the terrorist attacks: I believe their memorial can and should be greater than simply the punishment of the guilty.... To the Afghan people we make this commitment. The conflict will not be the end. We will not walk away, as the outside world has done so many times before.
3 This message was also broadcast on the other side of the Atlantic, where the Bush administration highlighted the plight of the Afghan people. In December 2001, upon signing the Afghan Women and Children Relief Act introduced by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and cosponsored by a bipartisan group of all female senators, President Bush said: In Afghanistan, America not only fights for our security, but we fight for values we hold dear. We strongly reject the Taliban way. We strongly reject their brutality toward women and children. They not only violate basic human rights, they are barbaric in their indefensible meting of justice. It is wrong. Their attitude is wrong for any culture. Their attitude is wrong for any religion. This was not a partisan issue at the time. Then Senator Hillary Clinton wrote an article for Time magazine in November 2001 rejecting the notion that the conflict was divorced from our values. We cannot simply drop our bombs and depart with our best wishes, lest we find ourselves returning some years down the road to root out another terrorist, Clinton argued. It is not only the right thing to do; it is the smart thing to do. In August 2010, after years of both military gains and setbacks, Time ran a cover story about an 18-year-old Afghan woman named Aisha. Her nose and ears had been cut off by a Taliban commander for having fled abusive in-laws. Provocatively titled What Happens If We Leave Afghanistan, the article and attendant images provoked a discussion about whether the United States was about to abandon the women and girls of Afghanistan to renewed oppression under the Taliban. The story received significant attention, and members of the media pushed a number of the war s opponents to square their opposition with the plight of Afghan women so vividly exemplified by the photo of Aisha. Then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi did her best to skirt the issue: It s in our strategic national interests to be there for our own national security to stop terrorism and increase global security, she told ABC News, and she added that gains in women s education and health can t happen without security. One of the war s harshest critics, Rep. Dennis Kucinich, told MSNBC: It s just horrible how that young woman was treated. At the same time, we need to create a world where we try to make it safe for everyone, but America can t do it alone. We cannot be the policemen of the world. The moral case for helping Afghans had become too discomfiting for Democrats on the left. To raise the issue was to acknowledge its force, and for politicians eager to bring the war to a close, that meant ignoring it. Given the Obama administration s concerns about its base s objections to the war, it was only a matter of time until the case against the Taliban was scrapped as well. Sixteen months after the Aisha story was published, Vice President Joe Biden told Leslie Gelb, of Newsweek, that the Taliban per se is not our enemy. Weeks later, news leaked that the Obama administration had been pursuing secret talks with representatives of the Taliban with the goal of a negotiated settlement to the Afghanistan war. An ignoble, Taliban-negotiated exit from Afghanistan was not preordained. During his campaign for the White House in 2008, Obama famously called Afghanistan the good war in comparison with Iraq. He claimed, with some merit, that the Bush administration had not properly resourced the effort but that, as president, he would. Despite the hawkish campaign rhetoric, after an Afghanistan strategy review completed in mid- 2009, the Obama administration narrowed U.S. goals to make it clear the Taliban was not the
4 primary focus of American military efforts. Obama announced that the aim was to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al-qaeda and its safe havens in Pakistan, and to prevent their return to Pakistan or Afghanistan. While the president acceded, in part, to his commanders requests for additional forces, he coupled his surge announcement with a promise to begin drawing down that same surge by June That announcement, which came about before a single additional member of the military had been deployed as part of the surge, set the effort back considerably, undermining the confidence of our Afghan and regional allies, and emboldening the enemy. Still, the Army soldiers and Marines who were deployed in the surge to Afghanistan allowed the coalition to make significant gains. In previously neglected regions in the south, troops implemented a counterinsurgency strategy that cleared the Taliban and provided the locals with an alternative to their repressive rule. These successes allowed local populations, especially women and children, to enjoy the benefits that many of their fellow Afghans in other areas of the country had already begun to experience in the years since It is understandable that many Americans look at Afghanistan after a decade of war and fail to see past the violence and lawlessness that still rages. But there is another story to this war. Over the last decade, Afghanistan has experienced improvements in almost every area of life. By 2010, according to the U.S. State Department, 35 percent of the 6.2 million students enrolled in Afghan schools were girls, up from zero percent among the fewer than 900,000 students enrolled during Taliban rule. U.S.-funded efforts have assisted the building of schools, the incorporation of women into Afghanistan s police forces, and the training of female teachers, politicians, lawyers, and judges. There are now 69 female members of the Afghan parliament. Afghanistan has also experienced a sharp decrease in infant and child mortality rates and significant increases in life expectancy for both men and women. These achievements undermine the criticism that our efforts in Afghanistan must fail because we are attempting to change deeply held societal norms and the inherent nature of Islam as practiced in Afghanistan s tribal society. Given the Taliban s track record, and ours, it is no surprise that Afghan women have responded to America s obsession with Taliban negotiations by demanding a seat at the table to ensure that women s rights remain protected. As a former Afghan female presidential candidate recently told the Christian Science Monitor: If [the Taliban] are bad, why are you bringing them back? Once the Taliban gets power and they are assured they will stay in power, then they will introduce their own values and there won t be any space for women. Recent Taliban rhetoric reinforces this skepticism. In a statement issued on January 12, the group said that its willingness to talk does not mean a surrender from jihad, and neither is it connected to an acceptance of the constitution of the stooge Kabul administration. As Karl Inderfurth, who met with Taliban officials some 20 times during the Clinton administration, wrote recently in Foreign Policy magazine, On a scale of one to ten on good-faith negotiations, the Taliban proved to be a zero. An Afghanistan that does not protect the rights of women, children, and minorities would be a devastating failure for the United States. As Hillary Clinton noted back in 2001, A post-taliban Afghanistan where women s rights are respected is much less likely to harbor terrorists in the future. Why? Because a society that values all its members, including women, is also likely to put a higher premium on life, opportunity, and freedom values that run directly counter to the evil designs of the Osama bin Ladens of the world.
5 Given the Obama administration s race to the exits, largely made politically thinkable by the killing of Osama bin Laden, what should those who are skeptical of the administration s intentions do to correct this slow-motion train wreck of an Afghanistan policy? It is unlikely that a future president will have the fortitude of President Bush in 2007 when he sent the surge forces into Iraq, defying public and expert opinion claiming the war was lost. It is thus imperative that, at a minimum, our commanders be allowed to maintain post-surge force levels through Similarly, recent decisions to downsize the Afghan security forces need to be reconsidered; and the administration needs to devote a renewed sense of urgency to negotiations with the Afghan government, not the Taliban, over a strategic partnership agreement that makes clear America s long-term interests in the fate of Afghanistan and its people. American policymakers may very well decide to abandon the Afghan people, but few seem willing to admit how dishonorable that would be. On a trip to Afghanistan last fall, I saw young girls in Helmand province shouting Ma-rine, Ma-rine as they flocked to a woman in our group. They thought she was part of the highly successful (and popular) Marines female engagement teams that provide basic medical services to locals. On a Blackhawk helicopter on our way to Taliban leader Mullah Omar s recently cleared hometown in Kandahar province, an Army general told us that when you see the kids, you will realize we can succeed. In other words, the moral case for Afghanistan is not only a matter of our being virtuous for the sake of virtue. Because we increasingly have the heretofore neglected population on our side, we can still win. As a result of the heroic efforts of coalition forces, al-qaeda has largely been forced to relocate to the tribal areas of Pakistan or outposts in Yemen and Somalia. Still, the Afghan government s stability is threatened as Taliban forces struggle to retake many districts. They can be stopped. But only if our leaders give our troops free reign to do so and avoid the temptation to give up the fight. Rehabilitating the Taliban or writing off a supposedly backwards country may be attractive options for politicians eager to pacify the war-weary American public. But doing so would undermine everything we have fought so hard for over the last 10 years. And there is no reason to believe either solution will lead to anything but an end far more disastrous, and morally haunting, than we can presently imagine. On February 23, the New York Times ran an article with a headline that, in 2002, could have appeared only in a satirical paper such as the Onion: Beheadings Raise Doubts That Taliban Have Changed. The governing force in Afghanistan in the 1990s performed such beheadings, and bodily mutilations, and deadly stonings, in stadiums and compelled thousands to attend and watch. They are no different today. The moral and strategic imperatives in Afghanistan are one and the same: Defeat the Taliban. Any other course is not only harmful to our national interest but also dishonorable and will do long-term damage to our national character.
The looks and the side glares haven't died down. The hush conversations that go silent as I walk past groups of people, are slowly becoming a norm, and the recent spate of "terror attacks" haven't helped my case either.
Or do we call something a terror attack only when a brown person shoots and kills or blows himself up? Its not something white folks do. When it comes to them, they are "lone wolves", and all those incidents are simply put as "hate crimes".
At a time when this country is divided, I'm fortunate to call New York City home. But am I really?
The Kansas shooting, where an Indian techie died in a premeditated hate crime, has given rise to tension in the Indian community and the fear is palpable.
With graffiti on walls, slogans in schools, robbing of a Hijab-wearing lady among more than 200 such hate crimes reported in the recent past, the man recently elected to office and who claimed to be a friend of all "Hindus and Indians" had kept mum for far too long about the killing of Srinivas Kuchibhotla.
Living the immigrant life is something I'm quite used to and calling places outside of India home is something I've been doing since I was 22. I know what it means to adapt to the local culture and its people.
In the past, many of my Indian friends would try and speak with an accent and only speak in English when we were out of our homes. I used to find it quite unusual then and often checked them for doing so.
We cannot let racism be the standard.
But I think the current times have made it imperative for us to adapt to this way of living. Any foreign accent or language seems to frighten people and puts them on the edge. We are trying harder to adapt, and, in the bargain, losing our identity not for want or will, but out of the sheer desire to be considered as one of them. And still the bigotry continues.
From being denied entry to a nightclub, to an upscale restaurant that just happened to shut early that day, to being cursed from across the street in Times Square, where I work, is not the America I hoped for or want to live in.
I am chasing the American dream, one trim and haircut at a time. Gone are the days when I supported "no-shave November" and compared beards with colleagues and friends and spoke about advancements in cancer research.
Friends in other cities across America often tell me how lucky I am to live in the microcosm called New York City, where Chinese food is sold 20m from the Pakistani chicken and rice cart, where there is a true mix of race and culture. Where standup comedians openly take digs, make racist jokes and still find an audience day after day and fill their venues with a crowd of mixed nationalities.
But the events around me are having an impact at a subconscious level. I see how the reluctance of the current government to openly condemn hate crimes has, in a way, encouraged people to lash out more often and openly.
I, for one, am more conscious of my surroundings and extra cautious about what I say and whom I am saying it to. I am not as trusting of people as I used to be and I'm as wary of their intentions as they, probably, are of mine.
It's a sad state of affairs when George Bush starts making sense and demands that the current President speak up on things that are unfolding around us every day.
Last I checked, this country prided itself on being the land of the free and the home of the brave. Since when has it become bravery to put those less fortunate than you down, and when did bigotry and xenophobia become synonymous with freedom?
With people from outside the status quo come fresh ideas, new vigour and an unrelenting attitude to thrive and create an environment to prosper in.
We cannot let racism be the standard, normalise hate crimes and consider those different than us, the enemy. Immigrants built America and we must never forget that. But it's easy for me to say that - I am one.
I am a retired newspaperman. I am 69 and live in Poca, WV, with my wife of 45 years, Lou Ann. We grew up in Cleveland. Three kids. Grandfather.
More on who I am is here.
Report all errors to DonSurber@GMail.com
Look, I like a good harira and a sumptuous tagine as much as anyone. But I haven't been to Morocco more than a dozen times because of either. I first visited Morocco early in 1969; it was my first trip to a "non-Western" country. I loved everything about it, but it was the generosity and welcoming nature of the Moroccan people that blew my mind. That's not just why I keep returning but it was in part why I immediately embarked on a 2 year journey that took me through Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, all Muslim-majority countries (as well as India which has over 170 million Muslims-- considerably more people, of all faiths, that live in Russia or Mexico).
1969 was also the first time I visited Holland, though more briefly than my stay in Morocco. Eventually though, I settled down in Amsterdam, got a job and lived there for almost 4 years. I wasn't happy a couple weeks ago when Dutch Trumpist politician Geert Wilders referred to Moroccan immigrants as "scum" while campaigning among Dutch versions of the Trump voters. What always shocks me about racists like the average Trump supporter and like Wilders is that they feel perfectly comfortable chastising an entire race or ethnic group based on their experience with generally desperate impoverished immigrants.
Geert Wilders, far-right icon, is one of Europes unusual politicians, not least because he comes from the Netherlands, one of Europes most socially liberal countries, with a centuries-long tradition of promoting religious tolerance and welcoming immigrants.
How he and his party fare in the March 15 elections could well signal how the far right will do in pivotal elections in France, Germany and possibly Italy later this year, and ultimately determine the future of the European Union. Mr. Wilders (pronounced VIL-ders) has promised to demand a Nexit referendum on whether the Netherlands should follow Britains example and leave the union.
The Netherlands is kind of a bellwether, a lot of trends manifest themselves here first, said Hans Anker, a Dutch political strategist who has worked both in the Netherlands and the United States.
I wouldnt rule out that Wilders could be prime minister, he added. This one is fundamentally unpredictable.
Remarkably, Mr. Wilders, 53, has managed to build a movement despite his infrequent public appearances. Living under threat since the police discovered plots against him in 2004 has turned him into a politician ahead of his time, using the internet and later social media to talk to voters without the filter of journalists.
It has proved a particularly effective means of reaching disillusioned citizens. Other politicians have followed his lead but almost none have done it as effectively, Dutch experts said.
Hes the most strategic, smartest politician out there, said Sarah de Lange, a political science professor at the University of Amsterdam. Hes very skilled. Hes a very good debater. He has media savvy. Internationally, hes compared to Trump. But with Wilders every tweet is thought through, calculated. With Trump its emotional.
Right now Mr. Wilderss party looks set to win more seats than any other or to come in second. However, he has historically polled better before elections than he has performed in them. Still, after pollsters underestimated the likelihood of both Brexit and the victory of Donald Trump last year, no one is relying on predictions.
But whether Mr. Wilderss party wins the most votes, or enters a government, hardly matters. He has already succeeded in one of his main ambitions-- to push politics in the Netherlands to the right and make possible a conversation about shutting out immigrants and dismantling the European Union that was unthinkable not long ago.
...Wilders describes himself as an outsider. Yet he is the third-longest-sitting member of the Dutch Parliament and has spent his life in politics since he was about 28... He maintains the image of being present through carefully dispensing Twitter posts, videos and television interviews. His rare public appearances guarantee that every time he ventures out he attracts a media circus.
Last week, he suspended his campaign appearances altogether after reports that a member of his police security detail was suspected of leaking his movements to a Dutch-Moroccan criminal gang.
Still, he manages to travel to give speeches outside the Netherlands, including at the Republican convention in Cleveland, where he spoke at the Milo Yiannopoulos Wake Up Party, a gathering of [severely mentally ill] lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people for Mr. Trump... He is described by political compatriots as friendly with Benjamin Netanyahu, the right-wing Israeli prime minister... [He] seems to try to outdo himself more for shock value and to grab attention than for practical effect, particularly on immigration.
In 2012 his position was no new mosques in the Netherlands; now it is close all the mosques, said Michiel Servaes, a Labor Party member in Parliament who has served with him. In 2012 it was limit asylum seekers to 1,000 a year; now its no new asylum seekers.
Yet Mr. Wilderss stands have brought the mainstream right to advocate strict limits on aid for immigrants and helped spawn new small right-wing parties, all with strong positions against immigration and in support of stricter rules to push immigrants to accept Dutch culture, Mr. Servaes said.
I'm sure there will be endless debates about who is the worst of the worst in Trump's nasty little proto-fascist kleptocracy. There's Bannon , of course, who would be the hands down early fave, but let's not forget Stephen Miller , Betsy DeVos, Wilbur Ross , Tom Price, Scott Pruitt... and, yes... there's also the Hungarian neo-Nazi, Sebastian Gorka, who we took at look at last week. And we're not the only ones looking closely at the neo-Nazi from... well, no one really knows when he was born or where he was born but people who know him swear he's an earthling who once served as a British spy and, later, as a professional fascist in his ancestral home, Hungary. Eventually he married an unfortunate-looking somewhat older American heiress-- like him, a psychotic islamophobe and hate-monger-- and managed to acquire U.S. citizenship that way. They were bothbloggers who help Bannon drive Trump further and further from mainstream thought on national security issues.
Anyway, most people who know anything about him claim Gorka is certifiably insane. You'll probably come to the same conclusion by listening to the taped phone conversation (on the 2 YouTubes above) that he had with Republican South Carolina counterterrorism expert Michael Smith. Gorka doesn't like Smith's twitter feed and phoned him up to threaten him with a lawsuit. Listen as Smith, tapping the call after the first 5 minutes, draws him out; it's funny-- or chilling, depending on your perspective. At first Smith, who has been outspoken about Gorka's obvious lack of competence for his job, thought it was a prank call. Smith, who says he voted for Trump says he was "stunned that the administration would hire him to work in the White House on such critical issues as counterterrorism. This could blow up in our faces, to have basically an amateur working on such important policies and working with people like Steve Bannon."
You'll notice if you listen to the taped call that Gorka invited Smith-- over and over and over-- to meet him at the White House. The day after the call, though, he withdrew the invitation. "Given your statements for the latest attack piece and continued disparaging Tweets against not only myself but the administration and president, consider your invitation to meet withdrawn."
Gorka apparently used his personal cell phone, with a northern Virginia area code, rather than making the call from his White House office or government-issued cell phone, where it would be officially logged, Smith says. The terrorism expert says he suspected Gorka was trying to conceal the call.
Smith says he did not begin recording the call until after Gorka allegedly threatened to sue Smith. In an email to Newsweek, Smith said that, Gorka asserted my tweets about him merited examination by the White House legal counsel. In effect, he was threatening to entangle me in a legal battle for voicing my concerns on Twitter that he does not possess expertise sufficient to assist the president of the United States with formulating and guiding national security policies.
...Smith has kept up a steady stream of jabs at Gorka since he learned that the Hungarian born, British-educated terrorism specialist had been hired by President Donald Trumps top adviser Steve Bannon. Both Bannon and Gorka came from the far-right Breitbart News, where Bannon was editor-in-chief and Gorka was national security editor. On his Twitter page, Gorka describes himself as deputy assistant to the 45th president of America and an Irregular Warfare Strategist.
His views on the global jihadist movement, as he calls it, align with a small cadre of right-wing observers who depict Islamist militants and extremists as being driven principally by passages from the Koran, rather than by government repression, or sectarian, tribal, political or economic factors.
On Tuesday, Smith tweeted that Gorka doesn't know the enemies' ideologies well enough to combat them. In an earlier tweet directed at Trump, Smith wrote: You are endangering the lives of Americans by hiring fake terrorism experts.
...[Q]uestions about Gorkas views and credentials to speak authoritatively on Islam and terrorism were severely criticized in lengthy feature articles in the Washington Post and Wall Street Journal in recent days. He also received a wave of unfavorable publicity in January 2016 when he was arrested for trying to pass through a TSA checkpoint at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. carrying a loaded handgun. He was charged with a misdemeanor and sentenced to six months probation.
One of his most influential critics is Cindy Storer, a leading former CIA expert on the relationship between religious extremism and terrorism.
He thinks the government and intelligence agencies dont know anything about radicalization, but the government knows a lot and thinks hes nuts, Storer was quoted as saying in the Post.
Smith asked Gorka why he didnt telephone Storer, "who called you nuts in the Washington Post, to complain. Gorka responded that Storers remark wasnt in a Twitter feed that is being sent to people on Capitol Hill.
Gorkas scholarship has also come under scrutiny by Mia Bloom, an expert on transcultural violence at Georgia State University. He doesnt understand a fraction of what he pretends to know about Islam, Bloom was quoted as saying by the Journal. Bloom has participated in TV appearances with Gorka and at a panel last year at the Defense Intelligence Agency.
Nor has Gorka-- who does not speak Arabic and has never lived in a Muslim-majority nation, according to news accounts-- submitted any of his articles for review in scholarly journals, says Lawrence P. Rubin, associate editor of Terrorism and Political Violence, the leading journal in that field.
Gorka has not submitted anything to the journal in the last five or so years, according to my records and we have never used him as a reviewer, Rubin tells Newsweek. We would not have used him as a reviewer because he is not considered a terrorism expert by the academic or policy community.
A government expert on Middle East radical movements, who asked not to be named for fear of being fired, tells Newsweek she was disturbed to hear Gorka suggest at a talk he gave in Israel a few years ago that he knew of a specific person in the [Obama White House] who was deliberately misleading the government on terrorism issues. He said he wouldnt name the person on stage but would provide the particulars privately to anyone there who wanted to know, she said. Noting the audience was full of potential adversaries, she called Gorkas remark beyond the pale.
Several times during his call with Smith, Gorka invited him to the White House to hash out their differences face to face, man to man, as he put it in one exchange. They set a tentative date for March 8.
But Smith warned Gorka that in absolute fairness to you, what you will hear is that I have very serious concerns about our national security, and in particular Gorkas role as an adviser to the president of the United States.
If you make a devastating case, then so be it, Gorka said.
So be it? Smith answered. Then what, youll acknowledge you're out of your league?
Yeah, absolutely, Gorka said. Bring it on."
Late Wednesday, Gorka withdrew his invitation.
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Several area restaurants are pitching in to help out a local chef who is recovering from a severe workplace accident.
A GoFundMe page has been established for Allie Redshaw, a chef who suffered a traumatic injury Wednesday when her right hand was caught in a meat grinder at Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria. According to the page, Redshaw was rushed to the University of Virginia Medical Center, but doctors were unable to save her hand and had to amputate it up to her wrist.
Described as a phenomenal chef and mother to a 16-month-old girl, Redshaw is facing mounting medical expenses and a long road to recovery, the page reads. With hopes of raising $150,000 to cover bills, therapy, child care, a future prosthesis and more, the page has been able to raise more than $75,500 as of Friday evening.
Some of the highest donations to the fund have been made in the name of other area restaurants: Continental Divide on West Main Street and The Virginian on the Corner appear to have dished out hundreds of dollars to support their industry peer, for example.
Asked about whether Lampo had noticed the support coming from other eateries, co-owner Andrew Cole responded absolutely.
Weve had contact with almost everyone in town as far as scheduling meals and making sure that shes got the support that she needs right now, said Cole.
Pearls Bake Shoppe, Baggbys Gourmet Sandwiches and the Barbeque Exchange in Gordonsville also have contributed, according to a quick scan of the nearly 800 donations logged on the GoFundMe page.
A former sous chef for Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards and head chef for Timbercreek Market, Redshaw formed her own catering company, Sobo Catering & Production. Redshaws husband, Ian, is head chef at Lampo.
Lampo closed Wednesday after the accident but since has reopened.
Our only focus is her recovery, and our thoughts and prayers are with her and her family, Cole said.
Federal research grant funding at the University of Virginias School of Medicine rose almost 25 percent last year, bringing UVa to 35th nationwide.
UVa won a total of $126 million in grants from the National Institutes of Health in 2016, which doles out research funding to selected projects around the country. Thats a significant increase above the $101 million won in 2015.
Dr. David Wilkes, dean of the School of Medicine, reported the findings to the Board of Visitors on Thursday morning.
Wilkes said UVas efforts to invest in new technology and an aggressive faculty hiring push, pillars of a long-term plan passed in 2013, are beginning to pay off. UVa is attracting many applicants who want to bring their research to Charlottesville, Wilkes said.
The word is out that something is happening at UVa, Wilkes said. Its not just different, but something really extraordinary.
About 60 percent of the new funding was generated by existing faculty and staff, Wilkes said, while new recruits who brought their grant-funded projects with them accounted for about 40 percent.
Rector William H. Goodwin said he wants UVa to push harder and break into the top 20.
The first step, he said, is to gain the status of comprehensive cancer center from the National Cancer Institute. The institutions in this category must meet strict standards, but investigators from these comprehensive cancer centers win roughly three-quarters of the investigator-initiated grants from NCI.
I think youve done a great job but I think we ought to have some goals, Goodwin said. To get into the medical rankings, we have to face the fact that we need to be a comprehensive cancer center.
The UVa Cancer Center is trying to meet the goal of gaining NCIs top-tier designation by 2020.
The new partnership with Inova finalized in November will give UVa access to a wider pool of patients in Northern Virginia, which will improve UVas ability to run medical trials, Wilkes said.
But in the next few years, UVa could face a crunch in research space. That could be a pressing issue, Wilkes said, and the board will need to act soon.
Within the next 10 months, if we secure the next round of hires, space will become limited very quickly, he said.
Also on Thursday, the board voted to appoint third-year student Bryanna Miller, of Lewes, Delaware, as its student member for the next academic year.
Miller who currently serves as president of the Black Student Alliance and sits on Student Council was selected after interviews and discussion held in closed session.
The student member does not have a vote but acts as an ambassador between the board and UVas student body. The student member serves in an advisory role and is supposed to represent the interests of students during board discussions.
Current student member Phoebe Willis, a second-year student at the School of Law, has worked on bringing student voices into discussions on spending the annual payout from the $2.3 billion Strategic Investment Fund.
Connecting the board with the students they govern was one of Willis chief goals, and she said she hopes Miller continues her work.
I think that relationship has improved, but its not a perfect relationship, Willis said. Its an opportunity for Bryanna to come in and really make her own mark on it.
Millers term will begin June 1.
RICHMOND Former State Inspector General June Jennings, who was ousted recently by the General Assembly for her office's failure to thoroughly investigate the death of a mentally ill inmate, has been appointed to a new role in Gov. Terry McAuliffe's administration.
McAuliffe on Friday appointed Jennings to fill a vacant position as deputy secretary of finance. She will serve under Secretary of Finance Richard D. "Ric" Brown and alongside Gina Burgin, another deputy.
The position Jennings is filling had been vacant for months, said Brian Coy, McAuliffe's spokesman.
"Junes experience as an accountant and state government auditor will make her a valuable asset to the Secretary of Finances office," Coy said.
Deputy secretaries are not subject to the approval of the General Assembly, Coy said.
In February, the General Assembly voted to approve all but one of McAuliffe's hundreds of appointees.
Jennings was excluded, lawmakers said, because her office failed to get to the bottom of Jamycheal Mitchell's death at Hampton Roads Regional Jail in August 2015. A mentally ill Portsmouth resident, Mitchell lost 46 pounds behind bars and died of extreme weight loss and heart problems.
Jennings maintained that her office did not have the authority to investigate jails.
Del. Rob Bell, R-Albemarle, who led the charge for Jennings' ouster, disagreed with her assessment, but said even if that was the case, her office should have tried to dig deeper into the medical records kept by the private company that contracted with the jail to provide health care to inmates.
Bell said he wanted Jennings to be replaced with someone more suited to conducting death investigations.
She may be wonderful for other positions," he said from the floor of the House of Delegates in February. "But its clear from the evidence in front of us shes not right for this position.
He declined to comment on Jennings' new appointment Friday afternoon.
Prior to joining the Office of the State Inspector General, Jennings worked for the Virginia Department of Corrections as inspector general and internal audit director, according to the governor's office.
Jennings, a native of Chesterfield County, is a Certified Public Accountant who graduated from Radford University with a bachelor of science in accounting.
Amid criticism, Rep. Tom Garrett, R-5th, is changing the ticket distribution method for his in-person town hall in Charlottesville later this month.
According to a news release posted to his Twitter account Friday, tickets for the event, still set for 6:30 p.m. March 31 in Garrett Hall at the University of Virginias Frank D. Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, will be distributed through a lottery overseen and operated by a nonpartisan organization separate from Garretts office to maximize inclusion, diversity and convenience.
Details about the lottery will be released March 20, according to the statement, and no submissions will be accepted until that date.
According to Garrett spokesman Andrew Griffin, the event is still limited to 135 tickets. It was unclear if there is guaranteed seating for 45 Batten School students, as previously announced.
The release also said local political organizations will no longer be involved with ticket distribution. That aspect of the event had come under heavy criticism by area Democrats, who said Wednesday that they were not asked in advance to distribute tickets and that they did not agree to do so. Both the Charlottesville and Albemarle Democratic parties had said they would not participate. Griffin said at the time that those unaffiliated with a political party were more than welcome to call their local units they most identify with and request tickets."
David Singerman of Indivisible Charlottesville, a recently formed progressive political advocacy group, said Friday that while the group was glad that Garrett listened to his constituents, the 135-ticket limit is still totally inadequate for the thousands of people in Charlottesville and across the district who clearly have questions for him. He should move his event to a venue that will let him hear the concerns of as many people as possible.
A release sent Monday laid out several ground rules: As per the rules set forth by Batten, there will be no signs allowed. Furthermore, cheering, clapping, booing, and chanting are also not allowed. All questions will be addressed to the moderator/congressman and not to other attendees. All questions and answers will be respectful and professional. No topic is off limits.
A town hall meeting held without Garrett by Indivisible Charlottesville drew at least a thousand people last Sunday. Garrett, who held Facebook Live events in previous weeks, announced plans to hold two in-person town halls a few days prior to the event. Indivisible Charlottesville originally planned to hold its town hall the day before, but Garrett was unable to attend because he was in Germany fulfilling his responsibilities to both the House Foreign Affairs and Homeland Security committees, Griffin previously said.
To accommodate his travel schedule he was scheduled to return from Germany that Saturday the town hall was moved to Sunday, but Garrett still did not attend.
"There is an empty seat in a Sudanese prison because I did my job," Garrett said in a text message to The News & Advance of Lynchburg late Wednesday night, discussing his diplomatic efforts in Germany on behalf of a formerly imprisoned Czech national. "The next live town hall I have will be one more than my predecessor had in six years," he said, referring to former Rep. Robert Hurt.
Another in-person town hall is planned for May 9 in Moneta. Details for that event have not been announced.
CHARLOTTESVILLEA Charlottesville man has pleaded guilty to distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine.
According to evidence presented in the citys federal courthouse on Thursday, 35-year-old Ricco Jamel Harris distributed crack cocaine throughout the Central Virginia region between late 2012 and November 2015. The evidence established that Harris was a major supplier of cocaine in Charlottesville who gave cocaine to members of a major drug distribution ring operating out of the Culpeper area.
During that timeframe, agents from the Jefferson Area Drug Enforcement Task Force made a series of controlled buys from Harris and seized over 75 grams of crack cocaine during a traffic stop. It was ultimately determined that Harris was responsible for the distribution of over 4 kilograms of crack cocaine.
A Flat Run man died Thursday evening following an afternoon collision in Orange County.
Rescue personnel transported William Henry Day, 82, to Mary Washington Hospital following the crash which occurred at about 4:20 p.m. Day died about two hours later.
According to Virginia State Police spokesman Sgt. Les Tyler, Day was traveling north on Indiantown Road near the intersection of Russel Run Road when his 1997 four-door Acura crossed the center line and hit an oncoming vehicle head-on.
The southbound car, Tyler said, was a 2001 four-door Chevrolet operated by Megan Dodson, 26, of Unionville. Dodson was taken to Novant Health UVa Health System Culpeper Medical Center for treatment. The extent of her injuries is unknown at this time.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation by Trooper F.W. Stanley, Jr., said Tyler. Lake of the Woods Fire and Rescue assisted at the scene.
ELKO While Elko may often seem a bucolic place to live, our region has suffered its share of disasters.
According to historian Jan Petersen, many events from the past can be classified among the worst tragedies of our history as a community. However, the five that hold title as the most severe in terms of loss of life and property damage include the Great Pandemic, the Winter of White Death, the City of San Francisco train wreck, the TransLuxe Airline crash that killed all but one passenger, and the Stockmens Hotel fire.
The train wreck caused chaos, said Petersen. Twenty some people were killed and over 100 were injured.
Here is the list of northeastern Nevada disasters, in chronological order:
Winter of White Death
The Winter of White Death went down as one of the worst in the regions history. The winter of 188990 was devastating to ranchers here in Northern Nevada. Estimates claim that nearly 95 percent of the areas cattle died that year due to deep snows and frightfully cold temperatures. A legend from the time says that a person could walk a hundred miles along the Marys River and step from cow to cow without touching the ground.
Two important changes emerged from this tragedy. After that time ranchers decided it was best to have a ton of hay on hand over the winter for each brood cow. Prices for land where hay could be raised essentially rose. Devastation to the cattle industry opened way for the development of sheep ranching, which caused friction between these two forms of commerce due to grazing rights.
Spanish Flu
The Great Pandemic was the first of two pandemics involving the H1N1 influenza virus. It is recorded as one of the deadliest natural disasters in human history, infecting some 500 million people worldwide. People in the Arctic and as far flung as the Pacific Islands were stricken with the disease. Deaths are estimated to be between 50 and 100 million, nearly five percent of the worlds population at the time.
The Spanish Flu, as it was nicknamed, was atypical in that it predominantly killed healthy, young adults rather than youth and the elderly.
In Nevada reports of the illness were slow to be validated. Getting information to the Public Health Service was much more difficult in the rural areas.
On Oct. 15, 1918, health officials confirmed 38 cases of influenza in the state. Counts of infection and deaths increased.
In Elko County, teacher Eleanor Holland scoffed at wearing a then required face mask.
It didnt seem so funny when I came down with the flu and nearly died. Fortunately, none of the other teachers got it though they all helped take care of me.
The flu coincided with WWI and soldiers often made their way to and from service via train. A doctor was stationed in Montello to check the health of people on board. The town hotel was made into a makeshift hospital. There is a simple, granite monument in the graveyard stating that 10 unknown soldiers died there of the flu epidemic. They have never been identified.
The railroad contributed to the spread of the disease. Wendover, Halleck, Starr Valley, Deeth, Montello, Elko, Carlin, Battle Mountain, Winnemucca and Lovelock were highly impacted due to their location along the train route.
In all of Nevada, which had a very small population at the time, the State Board of Health reported 3,914 cases of flu. They recorded a total of 734 deaths, but the number is believed to be as high as 800.
City of San Francisco
Southern Pacifics steamliner, the City of San Francisco, was billed as the fastest and most powerful ever built. It was nearly a quarter of a mile in length and could travel from Chicago to the West Coast in about 40 hours. The locomotive was claimed as the safest engineering in rail travel.
The City of San Francisco wrecked after leaving Carlin in the evening of August 12, 1939. The westbound train derailed 40 miles west of Elko.
Engineer Ed Hecox said he saw a tumbleweed on the rails right before the accident. It was later believed that the train was sabotaged, but a guilt party was never discovered.
As the engine stopped I ran back, said Hecox. All I could hear was the screams and moans of the injured and dying. Everywhere there was dust. I could not see a single living person.
Passenger F.S. Foote Jr. said the train was hitting the curves uncomfortably after they left Carlin. He said two beers were propelled from a table and that a woman was hurled from her seat to the aisle, making everyone laugh. This was just a few minutes before the derailment.
The train lurched at around 9.33 p.m. and then jumped the tracks. It shot out from the rails about 900 feet with five cars ending up in the river.
Frantic rescue attempts ensued for the next couple of hours and with the addition of onlookers any evidence of wrongdoing was destroyed. Later, investigators discovered a couple of jackets and tools were found in the water near the crash. Some speculated that the railroad was at fault. Suspects were questioned and the railroad conducted a hearing but, in the end, no one was ever charged and the accident remains a mystery.
Trans-Luxury Crash
Tragedy struck once again on Sept. 5, 1946. During the early hours of the morning a San Francisco bound Trans-Luxury Airliner tried to land at the Elko airport. Heavy fog hung low along the ground and upon descent, the airliner crashed and burned.
Twenty-one people were killed, including one infant. Miraculously, there was one young survivor.
When help arrived after the crash rescue workers found 18 bodies thrown from the plane and three others inside the smoldering wreckage.
The plane was still burning, wrote Elko Daily Free Press editor Chris Sheerin. Bodies were strewn for more than 100 feet around. They thought all were dead. Then they heard a child crying.
The young child was found in the brush near a woman who was unconscious but later died.
I heard the baby crying, said mortician Robely Burns. He was bawling something awful. His crying was loud enough to be heard over the crackle of the flames.
The boy was taken to the hospital.
He was cold as ice when he came in, said nursing superintendent Marie Herbster.
The child was later determined to be Peter Link from Brooklyn. He complained of pain in his chest and arm but was later was determined to be physically fine. However, for the short time that Peter was in the hospital he continually cried for his mother. As it turned out, Peter lost his entire immediate family in the crash, including his 6- month-old sibling.
News of the devastating crash spread across the country amidst the gloom of a nation trying to recover from the horror of World War II.
While the nation received the news of the fatal crash near Elko this morning with its usual calm, being used to great disasters, it was electrified by the fact that a blue-eyed boy of 2 years had escaped miraculously from the wreck, Sheerin wrote.
Later, the boy was determined to be 3 years old.
Peter was soon deemed the miracle boy. Gifts poured in along with letters from the public offering to care for the orphan.
Blood relatives came forth and about a week after the crash Peters uncle arrived from Brooklyn and took the boy back to his grandmother.
The crash was later investigated and it was determined that headwinds between Sinclair and Rock Springs, Wyo. had caused too much fuel usage. The speed of the plane had dropped severely and the pilot made the decision to land at the nearest airport. The pilot was warned of the ground fog but he made an emergency judgement that turned out to be fatal for many.
Records show that as of 2002 Peter Link was 59 years old and living in New York City.
Stockmens Fire
In 1957 a blaze took a city landmark. The Stockmens hotel, location of many big band performances, caught fire causing extensive destruction and a number of people escaped death with the help of hotel employees and firemen.
According to an article in the Elko Daily Free Press, it was the most destructive blaze in Elkos history.
Manager Dick Toothman later told the newspaper that the fire started from an oil leak in one of the kitchen ranges at around 8:30 p.m. By 10:30 p.m. the entire building had been reduced to ruins. Onlookers feared the blaze would spread to nearby buildings.
The doomed hotel was an economic axe to the city. The hotel losses were estimated to be more than $1.7 million. The blaze also put 108 employees out of work.
The Future Farmers of America was holding a banquet at the hotel that evening with 212 people in attendance. When the blaze was learned of the attendees rushed throughout the hotel warning people to escape.
We were extremely fortunate that the fire broke out at the hour it did, said Toothman. There were some 50 or 60 people in the rooms. If it had been later there would have been more and it is almost a certainty that some lives would have been lost.
During the razing a huge sign at the top of the building crashed to the ground as the wall beneath it crumbled. National guardsmen were called out to maintain the hundreds of curious spectators and keep them from harm.
During the blaze there was concern that an explosion might occur if liquid gas storage containers caught fire. The gas was released without explosion but huge flames did shoot out.
As the building burned, owner Dan Bilbao announced that he would make immediate plans to erect a new building.
We will build again as soon as possible, he said about the disaster.
Last week, President Donald Trump erupted with fury over a series of public revelations of private facts some top-secret and some office gossip that painted him and his White House in a bad light. The president ordered the FBI to investigate some of these so-called leaks and his own White House counsel to investigate others.
There are numerous issues related to the leaking of government information. They include the leaking of classified information, the leaking of confidential communications and the publishing of leaked material.
Here is the back story.
It is a felony to reveal classified information to any person who lacks a classified clearance, as some in the intelligence community have recently done to embarrass, control, intimidate or infuriate the president. The National Security Agency employs over 60,000 domestic spies, but they work in compartmentalized areas. Thus, not all of them have access to all the data collected by all of their colleagues. Only about 100 spies have access to the top-secret data that was leaked about the president.
When members of the intelligence community leaked lurid allegations about the future presidents alleged behavior in a Moscow hotel room, which he has vehemently denied, and when some leaked the partial transcripts of telephone conversations between retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn and the Russian ambassador to the U.S. shortly before Flynn became the presidents national security adviser and when some leaked an intelligence report that contradicted the presidents publicly stated conclusions on the likelihood of dangerous people immigrating to the U.S. from the seven predominately Muslim countries named in the presidents now enjoined temporary travel ban, one can understand the presidential anger.
And leaks are a two-sided coin. Adding to Trumps woes caused by too much revealing is the other side of that coin too much concealing. This comes into play when one has a duty to reveal. That duty arises from the legal obligation of spies to pass on to their superiors and ultimately to the president all of the material information they have acquired about Americas friends and enemies.
Selectively concealing and revealing this type of intelligence data, thereby manipulating the presidential judgment, when one has a duty to reveal substantially all of it is a form of interference with a governmental function namely, the presidents exercise of his judgment and that is a felony.
As if all this were not enough for a young presidency to deal with, Trump finds himself with a White House staff leaking to the press Oval Office gossip about confidential conversations from within the White House that the participants in those conversations had every reason to believe would not be made public. This resulted in the temporary seizure of government-issued cellphones held by a dozen or so staffers so their bosses could learn whether any had spoken to the press. The cellphones episode was itself leaked, apparently by a participant not happy with it.
Whats going on here?
These events are either the growing pains of a new presidential administration, still partially staffed by those loyal to former President Barack Obama, or the product of sinister forces from people attempting to exercise their own judgment about Americas foes by frustrating and manipulating the judgment of the president whom the voters elected to exercise the constitutional powers to make those judgment calls. The latter situation would be perilous, as it would mean we have unelected, unaccountable and unnamed people pulling the levers of power in the field of national security.
The leaks of confidential communications from within the White House may be a pain in the neck for the president, but they are not criminal. And generally, a boss can look at an employees cellphone, as long as the employer of the boss and the employee owns the phone except when the employer is the government. The Fourth Amendment insulates government employees from governmental reach into its employees cellphones. Absent an employees waiving his Fourth Amendment rights, the government may not seize work-related (governmental) or personal phones without a search warrant.
Can the media publish these leaks?
In a word, yes. The media may publish anything that is of material interest to the public, notwithstanding its level of secrecy or how it was acquired. The First Amendment which the courts have construed to treat the media as the eyes and ears of the public protects absolutely the publication by the media of leaked data, whether gossip or top-secret, that the public wants to hear.
The courts have also ruled that everything about the president is of material public interest meaning no criminal or civil action can be taken against the media for the publication of any leaked materials that reflect on the president as a person or as a government official. When The New York Times published a probably stolen copy of Trumps tax returns, it did so with impunity.
One can see why Trump rails against the press. Yet he has taken an oath to preserve, protect and defend the very constitutional principles that protect and liberate a free press from the anger of the government, no matter how well-grounded that anger may be. One of his predecessors who was savaged by the press, Thomas Jefferson, wrote that accountability and transparency in government are of such overriding value that hed prefer newspapers without a government to a government without newspapers.
The environmental division of Spains State Attorneys office is to investigate the displaying of Iberian wolf cadavers in public places in the northern region of Asturias, where three cases have been reported in recent days, the last strung up from a traffic sign.
The wolf found in the Teverga municipality of Asturias. FAPAS
The investigation has been opened after the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) sent a letter on February 27 to the State Attorneys office saying that the killing and display of the animals was creating a situation of impunity and alarm.
The WWF says that over the last year up to nine Iberian wolf bodies have been found in the mountainous region by roadsides, on bridges, in a supermarket car park, and even in the vehicle of a regional park ranger.
This is an exercise in obscene exhibitionism, says Alberto Fernandez, a biologist with the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and a member of ASCEL, an association dedicated to the study and conservation of the Iberian wolf.
Who are they sending a message to? I dont know: society at large, he adds.
For park ranger Xurde Gayol, however, the answer is clear: I think the message is for the authorities and environmentalists. These [displays] have become a trend, he says.
Culling wolves is the sole responsibility of the authorities: hunters are forbidden from doing so, but to date nobody has been found responsible for the attacks on the animals.
This is an exercise in obscene exhibitionism Alberto Fernandez, biologist
Farmers and local mayors complain that authorities only killed 29 animals from January 2016 to February 2017 while the upper cut-off is 45 wolves. The latest census shows there are 38 packs or family groups in Asturias.
Farmers dont think we kill enough wolves, while for environmentalists the figure is too high, says Manuel Calvo, Director General of the Asturias National Resources Department.
Roberto Hartasanchez, president of Spains Fund for the Protection for Wild Animals (Fapas), accuses the regional environmental department of Asturias of failing to manage its wolf population. Everyone does what they want, says the environmentalist, who has filed complaints in the wake of earlier cases of dead animals being strung up along the regions roadsides.
Regional environmental authorities in Asturias passed the most recent appearance of a wolf cadaver, which was found on February 26 in Teverga, in the south of the region, to Seprona, the Civil Guards environmental department, but the agency did not investigate the incident, saying no complaint had been formally made.
Just days earlier, two other examples of the protected species were found dead in a parking lot in the village of Arriondas.
Seprona, has, however, formally questioned 20 people nine farmers and 11 park rangers as part of an investigation into the alleged falsification of wolf attacks carried out in order to fraudulently claim government compensation. Public prosecutors say defendants doctored photographs of damage that didnt actually exist in what authorities believe could constitute systematic criminal fraud.
The Civil Guard says some 200,000 was falsely claimed in compensation and that these false attacks could have played a role in generating an atmosphere of [social] rejection of Iberian wolves.
English version by George Mills and Nick Lyne.
The Madrid regional assembly on Thursday unanimously approved the final draft of a law regulating palliative care in the last stages of life. The new legislation stipulates that terminally ill and agonizing individuals may receive comprehensive palliative care in a hospital (either public or private), or in their own home, if they so wish. The law also sets out the duties of health professionals and provides for their legal security.
Madrid thus becomes the ninth Spanish region to pass this kind of legislation, following the example of Andalusia in 2010. The others are Galicia, Asturias, Catalonia, Basque Country, Navarre, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.
However, none of these laws contemplates either euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide.
These laws have not improved quality of life; only a voluntary death law will do that
Luis Montes, Right to Death With Dignity
The Madrid bill was first introduced in July by the Socialist Party (PSOE), and provides a legal framework for patients and health professionals alike. The former may reject treatment, palliative sedation and life support if they so wish. Patients will also have to be constantly appraised of the situation, so they can freely make informed decisions.
Palliative care is cross-disciplinary, extending not just to the patients but also to their families and other relevant individuals. The goal is to keep pain and other symptoms under control in people who are not responding to curative treatment, in order to preserve the best possible quality of life until the end.
Jose Manuel Freire, a Socialist assembly member and spokesman for health issues, said that this new law means all citizens will have the right to receive this kind of care. According to existing figures, in 2014 this kind of care was only reaching 20% of individuals in need of it, he added.
The law includes the right to leave instructions at relevant agencies in the event that patients should lose the ability to personally express their wishes following an accident or disease. This possibility already existed, but forms could only be filled out at a single office on Sagasta street. The Madrid Health Department will now create new offices where people may indicate their wishes, and this information will have to be added to a patients medical history.
A real death with dignity
But Luis Montes, president of the association Derecho a Morir Dignamente (Right to Death with Dignity), is asking for a voluntary death law that liberalizes the whole death period.
There are two pieces of national legislation covering the process of death, said Montes, who is himself a doctor. The Penal Code makes euthanasia and physician-assisted death a crime. The 2002 Patient Autonomy Law recognizes a patients right to refuse treatment.
Dr Luis Montes says the new law does not really create the right to a dignified death. Gorka Lejarcegi
Regional laws like the one just passed in Madrid do not allow patients to die when they desire, explains Montes. Instead, they stipulate that health professionals must inform patients about their options, that patients may leave early instructions regarding whether they wish to die in hospital or at home, and who should be with them at the moment of death. The laws also guarantee the right to palliative care.
But ultimately, these laws have not improved quality of life; only a voluntary death law will do that, said Montes.
In January, the leftist Unidos Podemos group introduced a proposal in Congress asking for voluntary death to be decriminalized. Such a move would bring Spain closer to Belgium or The Netherlands.
English version by Susana Urra.
South America continues to lead global cocaine production and consumption, according to the UNs 2016 International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) report, which was presented in Vienna and Bogota on Thursday. South America remained virtually the sole supplier of cocaine to drug abuse markets around the world, it notes, adding: The prevalence of cocaine consumption increased markedly in the region.
US Drug Enforcement Administration agents lead a suspect away. AP
More information Aumenta la produccion y el consumo de cocaina en Sudamerica
Referring to other studies by the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD), and the UNs Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the INCB report attributes the increase to the amount of land dedicated to coca plant cultivation in Colombia, which from 2014 to 2015 rose by almost 40%, from 69,000 to 96,000 hectares.
It attributes the rise, at least in the short term, to the peace process in Colombia.
The expectations surrounding negotiations on the peace process may have contributed to raising farmers hopes about the benefits of prospective alternative development programs and acted as motivators for further illicit cultivation, which, combined with the cessation of eradication by spraying of glyphosate by the authorities in 2015, accounted for the almost doubling of coca bush cultivation in the country, explain the authors of the report, adding that, at the same time, illegal cultivation in Bolivia and Peru has fallen.
The UN is concerned at the spread of plant-based psychoactive substances
The INCB report also addresses consumption, noting: The abuse of coca paste is concentrated in South America, and the annual prevalence of cocaine abuse continues to increase, although cannabis remains the most widely used controlled substance in the region.
According to CICAD: Last year, the annual prevalence rates of abuse of cocaine among secondary school students were higher in South America than in North America, Central America and the Caribbean.
Meanwhile, the UN body also expresses its concern at the spread of plant-based psychoactive substances such as Salvia divinorum, khat, hallucinogenic mushrooms, ayahuasca and Cacao sabanero, the psychoactive component of which is the alkaloid scopolamine, also known as burundanga.
In the past, they were destined solely and exclusively for the religious rites of the indigenous peoples of the Americas. However, data from the most recent surveys show that young people from other backgrounds were abusing such substances, it says, noting that in Colombia, the use of such substances was higher than that of LSD, ecstasy or methamphetamine.
The amount of land dedicated to coca cultivation has nearly doubled in Colombia
The INCB report takes a detailed look at the situation in Colombia. The UN is confident that in the longer term, the peace process, the incorporation of the guerrillas of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) into civilian life and the crop-replacement programs to end the cultivation of coca bushes will help to reduce drug production and use, of cocaine in particular.
One of the pillars of the agreement is related to drug matters and related crime, it notes, adding that it will continue to be at the disposal of the authorities in the implementation of the agreement, within the sphere of its mandate, regarding the implementation of the international drug control treaties.
English version by Nick Lyne.
Twelve months ago Honduran environmentalist Berta Caceres died after being shot three times in the stomach when armed men broke into her modest home in the city of La Esperanza. The murder of the woman who had won the Goldman Environmental Prize considered the green Nobel shocked the world.
A demonstration in Tegucigalpa in remembrance of Berta Caceres. REUTERS
More information La muerte inutil de la ecologista hondurena Berta Caceres
The United States, the United Nations, the Vatican and Venezuela all demanded that her killing be properly investigated, and Caceres has since become a symbol for environmentalists everywhere.
But a year after her death, the anger and the sadness have borne little fruit. The Agua Zarca hydroelectric dam project opposition to which cost Caceres her life remains in the hands of Honduran company Desarrollos Energetico SA (DESA), and plans that will see the draining of the River Gualcarque a sacred site for the indigenous Lenca people are still set to go ahead.
Honduras remains the worlds most dangerous country for environmentalists 123 activists have been killed in the last six years while those responsible for the murder of Caceres remain free despite eight arrests.
The economic elites of Honduras are behind Bertas death Gustavo Castro, friend of Caceres
At the same time, the activists killing has revealed the deep links between a handful of Honduran families, the army and the ruling party when it comes to several large hydroelectric dam projects. DESA itself is owned by the powerful Atala family and headed by Roberto David Castillo Mejia, a former military intelligence officer and employee of the state energy company of Honduras.
The project is going ahead despite indications from within the Caceres murder investigation that company director Sergio Ramon Rodriguez Orellana, also a former military man, ordered the activists death.
But the murder by military experts did not come off as planned. When assassins entered Caceres home on March 2, 2016 they discovered she was not alone; a friend, Gustavo Castro was staying with her. He was shot at point-blank range but the bullet only grazed his ear. However, he began to bleed profusely and was left for dead.
Gustavo Castro is the only witness to the murder of Berta Caceres. SAUL RUIZ
Behind Bertas death are the economic elites of Honduras; they are the ones with the most to gain from pushing ahead with these projects that threaten indigenous communities, Castro told EL PAIS from Barcelona. As the only witness to the killing, he has received death threats and is keeping out of the spotlight.
As the links with the army have become apparent, the investigation has become more opaque, he adds.
According to investigators, the DESA director asked one of his security chiefs, retired lieutenant Douglas Geovanny Bustillo, to organize the killing.
Caceres had publicly stated she had received deaths threats from Bustillo.
They have only arrested the middlemen while those guilty of ordering the killing my mother are still free. They havent investigated the factors that led to her death, the daughter of Caceres, 25-year-old Berta, told EL PAIS.
The message is clear: if you are involved with human rights and you annoy people in power, they will kill you, says Erika Guevara Rosas, Director for the Americas at the International Secretariat of Amnesty International.
The organization Global Witness has called on the Honduran government to arrest those responsible for ordering the death of Caceres and to set up mechanisms ensuring the security of environmentalists.
English version by George Mills.
Cecilio Pineda. FACEBOOK
Crusading journalist Cecilio Pineda Birto was gunned down on Thursday evening in Ciudad de Altamirano, in the southern Mexican state of Guerrero, federal police have confirmed.
The 38-year-old freelancer, who was a contributor to leading daily El Universal, was waiting while his car was being washed, when at around 7.30pm local time several armed individuals on motorcycles gunned him down and then fled. He died from his injuries before an ambulance arrived.
Pineda specialized in local news stories in Guerrero, one of Mexicos most violent states, where waves of grisly killings have taken place as cartels battle over drug-trafficking routes and clash with security forces.
More information Matan a otro periodista mexicano en el Estado de Guerrero
Active on Facebook, where he had more than 31,000 followers, Pineda had earlier on Thursday posted a video about El Tequilero, the alleged head of a gang of kidnappers that has been active in the region.
There will be more deaths, because the authorities dont want to do what they should be doing. It seems there is strong agreement between the government and this criminal leader, he said on the social network.
The authorities say they have begun an investigation into Pinedas slaying.
According to eldiario.mx, based in Ciudad Juarez on the US border, this was not the first time Pineda had been targeted. In September 2015, he was shot when he arrived at his house in Coyuca de Catalan, some 50 kilometers inland from the resort of Zihuataneco.
Mexico is widely considered to be the most dangerous country in the Americas to be a journalist
In 2014, 43 student teachers disappeared in Guerrero. According to an official investigation, they were arrested by corrupt police officers who handed them over to drug hitmen, who then killed them and burned their bodies.
But their families and human-rights groups believe that the army was involved in the death of the students and that the Mexican government is involved in a cover-up.
The International Court of Human Rights at the Hague says that Mexico is the most dangerous country in the Americas to be a journalist. The Committee for the Protection of Journalists say that at least 48 journalists were killed in the world in 2016, up from 72 the previous year. The UN, Reporters Without Borders, the Inter-American Human Rights Commission, and the Inter-American Press Society have all criticized the climate of impunity in Mexico.
With information from Pablo Ferri.
English version by Nick Lyne.
The fight over Madrids transphobic bus has moved to a new battleground or at least to a new vehicle. After a bus displaying a message viewed as a potential hate crime was impounded by local authorities, the ultraconservative group behind the campaign has rolled out a motor home with a similar ad.
The transphobic motor home gets ready to roll. Carlos Rosillo
This time, Hazte Oir (or, Make yourself heard) has modified the message to read: Do boys have penises? Do girls have vulvas? after a Madrid judge said on Thursday that the bus would not be allowed on the citys streets as long as it continued to bear the ad: Boys have penises. Girls have vulvas. Dont let them fool you. If you were born a man, youre a man. If youre a woman, you will continue to be one.
The bus was detained by municipal police, who fined organizers for violating a local ordinance banning advertising on any vehicles other than public transportation. A judge later ruled that the bus should be impounded as a preventive measure until the matter of whether its message constitutes a hate crime is cleared up.
I lament that the Gay Inquisition has imposed its dictatorship
Ignacio Arsuaga, president Hazte Oir
On Friday, Hazte Oir rolled out the motor home, which was stopped and fined on the same grounds.
But the president of the organization, Ignacio Arsuaga, has already warned that we will not be intimidated.
The Catholic group, which has campaigned against abortion and LGBT rights in the past, is portraying the matter as a fight over freedom of speech.
Adherents of Hazte Oir believe the group is being victimized by the leftist administration of Manuela Carmena, who secured the mayors seat thanks to support from the anti-establishment Podemos party.
A protester from Hazte Oir holds brochures titled 'The laws of 'Sexual indoctrination' during a Madrid protest on Wednesday. Paul White (AP)
Arsuaga claims that the bus has been hijacked and that authorities are violating their own right to express our ideas in public spaces.
The Hazte Oir campaign is widely viewed as a response to an earlier set of ads run by a transgender children support group called Chrysallis. Those ads said: There are girls with penises and boys with vulvas.
But the Catholic group denies that they are running a counter-campaign.
Our campaign is in favor of families fundamental right to educate their children freely, according to their own values, said Hazte Oir organizers on Friday.
The judge who decided that the bus should remain at the pound argued that its message was directly aimed at people with a different sexual orientation in order to deny and damage their dignity.
But the group has already filed an appeal against that decision, even as Arsuaga renewed his attacks against the LGBT community.
I lament that the Gay Inquisition has imposed its dictatorship, he said.
English version by Susana Urra.
Last month, aviation regulator DGCA had suspended Kathpalia's flying licence for three months for allegedly skipping the mandatory pre and post-flight alcohol test.
New Delhi: The government-owned Air India has shunted out its controversial head of operations, A K Kathpalia, replacing him with A K Govil.
Last month, aviation regulator DGCA had suspended Kathpalia's flying licence for three months for allegedly skipping the mandatory pre and post-flight alcohol test.
Kathpalia, who is also a senior executive pilot at the airline, has been made the Executive Director for Special Projects, in a major reshuffle of the top deck early this week, an Air India official said today.
Govil was earlier serving Air India as its ED, Inflight Services. As part of the major top management rejig, the national carrier has also replaced its ED Training AS Soman, the official said.
New Delhi: Budget carrier AirAsia India has scaled up its workforce by more than 50 per cent to 1,050 people in the last one year as the airline looks to fly overseas and expand its fleet.
The existing workforce not only meets the current requirement but will also cater to future demand, AirAsia India CEO and MD Amar Abrol said during an informal interaction here.
"We grew from 650 odd people to about 1,050 (since March 2016). It covers about 12 aircraft (operations) from cabin crew and engineers' perspective and about 10-11 aircraft from the pilots' perspective," Abrol said.
AirAsia India, which is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Malaysian airline group AirAsia, currently has a fleet of eight Airbus A320 planes.
It operates 58 flights per day to 13 domestic airports with Delhi and Bengaluru as its two bases.
Abrol also said that the airline plans to induct six more aircraft in this calendar year, while another six planes are expected to be added in the fleet by the middle of next year.
"We will expand from the current eight planes to fourteen by October depending on the business performance," he added.
Once the airline has 20 aircraft in its fleet it will qualify to fly international as per the regulations.
AirAsia India also plans to induct the latest single aisle aircraft from Airbus, the A 320 Neo, in its fleet next year.
Asserting that AirAsia India will fly overseas most likely from the second half of the next calendar year, Abrol said, "there is a whole host of work which we need to do before we start flying international."
"There is a project team which is already working to get AirAsia India ready for overseas operations, which is likely to commence either from next summer or at the most by autumn."
Abrol said the airline will look at international destinations which are in the radius of four to four-and-a -half hours from India to begin with, adding, "Naturally our strength lies in the east. So, look east will be the first port of call whenever we fly abroad".
On the domestic front, AirAsia India's strategy will be connecting tier-2 cities with metros he said, while emphasising that the domestic market offers ample opportunities for the airline.
AirAsia India has opened two new routes (Srinagar and Bagdogra from Delhi last month) and is also setting up Kolkata as its third base where it plans to station three planes.
There are also plans to connect the northeastern region with Kolkata and then potentially connect eastern region with the western region, he said.
Mumbai: A group of 17 public sector lenders have ratcheted up their efforts to recover around Rs 9,000 crore money granted to now defunct Kingfisher Airlines run by liquor baron Vijay Mallya.
Banks on Friday urged the Supreme Court to force Vijay Mallya to deposit $40 million in court. Banks also requested the apex court to ask Mallya to be present in court if he failed to deposit money, according to ET Now.
According to the filing by the consortium of banks in SC, Mallya "illegally transferred Diageo deal money outside India". Last year, Mallya reached a settlement with United Spirits that cleared him from claims of mismanagement.
Under Diageo deal, Vija Mallya was given $75 million which the banks wanted frozen at the Debt Recovery Tribunal through a plea. DRT in early 2017 allowed group of banks to start recovery process.
The total debt that Mallya owes to banks included interest payments as well that accrued to the principal amount over the years since Mallya failed to repay them.
The embattled businessman who has been living in a self-imposed exile in the UK was declared a wilful defaulter by the State Bank of India, that has been leading the consortium in pursuance of loan default case.
Apart form that a special PMLA court in Mumbai has labelled him as a proclaimed offender as he has failed to appear before court on several occasions despite many bailable and non-bailable warrants due against him.
Jamshedpur: Tata Sons Chairman Emeritus Ratan Tata today said the Tata Group is in the safe hands of N Chandrasekaran, who would take it to a new level of progress and growth.
Introducing Chadrasekaran to the people of Jamshedpur, Tata expressed confidence that Chandra (Chandrasekaran) will take the group as well as the city to a new level of progress and growth.
The Group and Jamshedpur city is in safe hand and it was a matter of pride that Chandra being an internal person of the group and had an impeccable record, Tata said after paying floral tributes to Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata on his 178th birth anniversary, here today.
Chandra has an immense record in term of performance and the progress made by TCS under his leadership, he said. "I am confident that Chandra would take the Tata group to a new height of progress and growth," Tata added Speaking on the occasion, Chandrasekaran said "I have been here in the steel city of Jamshedpur for last 36 hours witnessing, observing and feeling the impact of the city on human lives."
You can witness the Iconic brand Tata Steel and Jamshedpur almost inseparable being as one, which probably you could not have seen anywhere in the world, the Tata Sons Chairman said.
New Delhi: Vijay Mallya, the embattled businessman who is in the UK, today said faulty engines were one of the factors for the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines.
A group firm of Pratt & Whitney has been sued for supplying defective engines to Kingfisher Airlines, Mallya said amid aviation regulator DGCA ordering detailed inspection of P&W engines powering some Airbus 320 neo planes being operated in India.
Mallya has been declared a wilful defaulter and is wanted by Indian authorities for default in payment of loans related to Kingfisher Airlines that was grounded in 2012. He is also wanted in other cases.
"Not surprised at DGCA enquiry into Pratt & Whitney aircraft engines. Kingfisher Airlines sadly collapsed also due to faulty engines," he said in a tweet.
DGCA has ordered detailed inspection of 21 Airbus 320 neo planes of IndiGo and GoAir that are equipped with P&W engines, which have been frequently facing technical glitches.
"We have sued IAE, a Pratt & Whitney Group Company, for compensation towards defective aircraft engines supplied to Kingfisher Airlines," Mallya said in another tweet.
Response to queries sent to a P&W spokesperson on the issue was awaited. As many as 21 A320 neo planes that are using P&W engines would be examined and the exercise is expected to be completed in the next two weeks, a senior DGCA official had said on February 28.
The same day P&W said it is working with IndiGo and GoAir as well as the regulator over the issues.
JP Associates had last year announced the sale of its cement business to the Kumar Mangalam Birla-led Ultratech for around Rs 16,000 crore
New Delhi: Jaiprakash Associates today said it has got the approval of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for transfer of its cement plants to the Aditya Birla group firm, UltraTech Cement.
"NCLT Allahabad bench has sanctioned the scheme of arrangement whereby the company proposes to transfer identified cement plants owned by the company and its wholly owned subsidiary M/S Jaypee Cement Corporation to M/S UltraTech Cement on slump exchange basis," the company said in a BSE filing.
JP Associates had last year announced the sale of its cement business to the Kumar Mangalam Birla-led Ultratech for around Rs 16,000 crore, marking the biggest consolidation in the cement sector.
The deal will help the Jaypee Group firm to reduce debt, which runs into thousands of crores of rupees. The deal was subject to various regulatory approvals. The group's cement operations have a total capacity of 17.2 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) spread across Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Andhra Pradesh.
Mumbai: Tata Sons will split a dispute settlement payment of $1.18 billion owed to NTT DoCoMo (9437.T) over the Japanese firm's exit from a telecoms joint venture, leaving it with about two-thirds of the amount to invest in India, a source said.
Both companies are likely to approach India's central bank within 15 days with a plan that will offer to split the payment into two parts, the source, who has direct knowledge of the matter, said.
While Tata Sons will pay the fair value of DoCoMo's 26 percent stake outside India, or roughly $390 million according to Reuters calculations, DoCoMo would need to invest the balance of $790 million in India, either for expansion or other joint ventures, the source added.
It was not immediately clear how DoCoMo would use the money if the plan were formalised.
"DoCoMo at least gets control of the money and can use it for investment in India," said the source, who requested anonymity, as the decision is not final.
Another possible alternative could be that DoCoMo receives the entire payment in India and retains it for future investment instead of repatriating it, a second source close to Tata Sons said.
Any deal is subject to the Reserve Bank of India's approval.
Tata Sons declined to comment. DoCoMo did not immediately reply to an email seeking comment.
Tata Teleservices, a unit of salt-to-software conglomerate Tata Sons, and DoCoMo formed a telecoms partnership in 2009. In the event of an exit, that deal guaranteed DoCoMo the higher of either half its original investment, or its fair value.
When DoCoMo decided to get out in 2014, Tata Sons was unable to find a buyer for the Japanese firm's stake and offered to buy the stake itself, for half DoCoMo's investment of $2.2 billion.
India's central bank blocked Tata Sons' offer, saying a rule change the previous year prevented foreign investors from selling stakes in Indian firms at a pre-determined price.
DoCoMo took the case to a London court and won the arbitration. Tata Sons was asked to pay a penalty of $1.18 billion, which it has deposited with the Delhi High Court in the Indian capital, where the case is being heard.
On Tuesday, Tata Sons and DoCoMo agreed to settle out of court, after a new chairman took charge at the Indian conglomerate. DoCoMo has also agreed to end all legal proceedings against Tata Sons in Britain and the United States for a period of time.
Indian IT industry actually contributes immensely to the US economy in terms of jobs that are created in America, both directly and indirectly.
Washington: The debate in the US over H-1Bvisas has become a political and emotive issue as there is a "yawning gap" between the facts and perception, IT industry body NASSCOM has said, contending that Indian IT firms contribute immensely to the US economy and jobs creation.
"This narrative has been going on for a while now that Indian IT workers come to the US and that they take away jobs, that in general they simply displace American workers and that these are low-paid, not even necessarily high-skilled people who are actually taking away jobs from better paid and skilled American workers," NASSCOM president R Chandrashekhar told PTI.
Chandrashekhar was here this week leading a delegation of IT industry body to engage with members of the new US administration on issues like clampdown on work visas and flow of skilled manpower between the two nations.
"That's really the kind of narrative which has got built up, sort of anecdotal examples are being cited, which also are not necessarily accurate. Because it has been presented with a mix of emotive anecdotal stories, I think a counter narrative and facts have really not been recognised. If you look at the facts, then the facts actually tell you a very, very different story," he said.
He said, "The data, not just our data, but the US governments own data also tells a very, very different story." Chandrashekhar met a number of influential American lawmakers, opinion builders, members of think-tank community and the officials from the new Trump Administration and interacted with them on the H-1B visa issues.
The visit of the NASSCOM delegation came in the wake of the ongoing debate in the US and reported moves by the Trump Administration to bring out an executive order to curtail the use of H-1B visas, widely used by Indian IT majors.
"The purpose is to put across our point of view so that a more balanced approach is enabled," he noted.
Chandrashekhar said the Indian IT industry actually contributes immensely to the US economy in terms of jobs that are created in America, both directly and indirectly.
"Close to half a million jobs have been supported in the US as of 2015. The number of jobs have also been growing at 10 per cent per year as against a two per cent growth in the rest of the job market," he said.
"The biggest contribution to jobs, of course, is what the industry provides in terms of services to US corporates, 75 per cent of the Fortune 500 companies, which enable them to be more productive, more efficient, and more globally competitive, and thereby helps them to be the job creation engine in the US," the NASSCOM president said.
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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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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
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New Delhi: Labour Minister Bandaru Dattatreya today said he will soon discuss bringing back old General Provident Fund scheme with the Finance Minister as many employee organisations are unhappy with the new pension system.
A delegation of central government employees today called on Labour Minister Bandaru Dattatreya and demanded restoration of the old GPF scheme, which was replaced with the contributory pension scheme, NPS, from 2004.
Dattatreya said the Labour Ministry has been receiving such demands from all quarters across the country. The minister further said he will take up the issue with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley soon.
"A delegation of central government employees has given me a memorandum to bring back old General Provident Fund (GPF) scheme because they want retired government employees to avail social security like pension benefits, dependent benefits, insurance and other benefits," Dattatreya said.
From January 2004, the government replaced the earlier defined contribution pension system for retired employees, except for armed forces, with the contributory pension system under NPS.
The Labour Minister said employees are not happy with self contributory pension scheme under the National Pension System (NPS) post 2004 as they are deprived of social security.
Exerting commitment to address labour issues he said: "Our social benefits will reach the lowest level of society. We have provided security to construction, Aanganwai, Aasha, mid-day meal workers and we now plan to bring auto rickshaw drivers and domestic workers also under this fold".
Mumbai: World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva has backed November 8 note ban saying drive would leave a "profound and positive" effect on India's economy.
Georgieva told Hindustan Times that sudden recall of notes might have caused hardships in short term but in long term "demonetisation will help foster a clean and digitised economy".
What India has done will be studied (by other countries). There hasnt been such demonetisation in a country so big, HT quoted her as saying.
Last year, the International Monetary Fund also said words of compliment for demonetisation that was widely seen as a corruption control measure. The anti- black money step sucked out over 86 per cent of cash in circulation.
Georgieva drew parallels between Prime Minister Modi's money ban and calling back of high denomination bills by European Union, which is effecting note ban in a phased manner.
On November 8, last year the government announced it was scraping legal tender status of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 note effective midnight. The 50-day long drive saw people crowding at banks and staying in long queues to withdraw cash.
As per an estimate, currently only 65 per cent saving accounts are seeded with mobile numbers and only 50 per cent with Aadhaar.
New Delhi: The government has instructed banks to link all savings accounts with mobile and Aadhaar numbers by March 31, 2017, and enable mobile banking for such customers.
All banks have been advised to undertake this in campaign mode, an official statement today said. Mobile number seeding and enabling the same for m-banking are a pre-requisite for making mobile payments while Aadhaar number seeding is a pre-requisite for using Aadhaar Enabled Payments System (AEPS), it added.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), according to a recent Cabinet Secretariat notification, has been given the responsibility of promotion of digital transactions, including digital payments.
As per an estimate, currently only 65 per cent saving accounts are seeded with mobile numbers and only 50 per cent with Aadhaar. Out of the 65 per cent accounts already seeded with mobile numbers, only 20 per cent are enabled for mobile banking.
"To make this process convenient to customers, MeitY has advised the banks to explore 'Over the Air' customer consent instead of requiring customers to visit the bank branch or ATM as is required currently," the statement said.
The campaign is to be launched with immediate effect. The progress of seeding and mobile bank enabling will be monitored by MeitY along with the Department of Financial Services.
Banks will have to give adequate publicity in national, regional and local media, besides conducting camps for on-the-spot seeding of bank accounts. Also, they have been advised to utilise their extensive branch network as well as banking mitras or correspondents to carry out an effective outreach programme, especially in rural areas.
The process of enabling bank accounts for mobile and Aadhaar based banking is completely voluntary. "However, given the benefits of these banking channels, a large number of customers are expected to opt for it," it said.
Accordingly, banks have been advised to be prepared with adequate infrastructure to facilitate this process effectively with no inconvenience to customers.
Mumbai: After impressing everyone with the quirky trailer of Phillauri, Anushka Sharma is all set to release the party song from the same movie in a reality show. Sources say that she will launch Naughty Billo on Rishing Star. In fact, she and Diljit will perform to the song live!
The episode will also see the introduction of two wild card entrants those contestants who had to exit because they didnt get enough votes the first time round.
The film also stars Suraj Sharma of Life of Pi fame and is slated to release on March 24.
Mumbai: Kareena Kapoor Khan and Saif Ali Khans son Taimur has become quite the social media sensation. While a recent picture of the little one went viral for the adorable features he possessed, it had all started with Twitteratti welcoming him by trolling his name as it resembled the name of a 14th century autocratic tyrant.
This was followed by a report which said that Kareena referred to her first child as Little John. Kareena has finally responded to the reports and slammed them in style.
In an interview with Hindustan Times, the actress said, "No. I want to clarify that (referring to Taimur as Little John). How can anyone think that? Why would I call my son Little John? My sons name is Taimur. It is the most beautiful name, and he is the most beautiful and gorgeous man (smiles). And, no, I dont call him Little John. Please address him as Taimur Ali Khan."
The actress has also been saying that she is the best phase of her life and enjoying motherhood as she has started attending events and will soon begin shooting her next film Veere Di Wedding.
The actress will next be seen in Sonakshi Sinha's 'Noor'.
Mumbai: Bollywood diva Sunny Leone has partnered with Emojifi to release her series of sticker emoticons which can be used across chat applications i.e. whatsapp, fb messenger, hangout, hike, etc.
The stickers are designed so that her fans can use and share the stickers in their daily conversations with friends and family.
Stickers are suggested live as you type during your chat conversation.
All the stickers will be available on the emojifi app which is available on Google Playstore and App Store.
Sunny, who was last seen performing the iconic Laila O Laila in Shah Rukh Khans Raees, will next be seen in Sonakshi Sinhas Noor and Ajay Devgns Baadshaho doing special cameos.
Mumbai: The White House press corps recently got a special caffeine boost, courtesy of Tom Hanks.
In his very unique way to surprise the reporters covering the Trump administration, the ' Forest Gump' star sent a brand new espresso machine to them, adding a note of encouragement.
It read, "Keep up the good fight for Truth, Justice and the American way. Especially for the Truth part."
The note, typed in Hanks' signature style, includes an illustration with the caption, "Fresh, spirited American troops, flushed with victory, are bringing in thousands of hungry, ragged, battle-weary prisoners."
Journalist Peter Alexander took to Twitter to thank Hanks for the gift and wrote, "BREAKING: White House press corps receives brand-new espresso machine from @tomhanks. Come for the coffee... stay for his note."
Reportedly, this is the third espresso machine sent by the ' Sully' actor to journalists covering the White House, as part of a tradition he started in 2004.
The former frontman of the group Noise Addict explains the religion's core beliefs with references to the Koran. (Photo: AFP)
Distraught by the treatment of Muslims in Donald Trump's America, indie rocker Ben Lee felt he could seize on his own skills to encourage understanding.The former frontman of the group Noise Addict has recorded an album of songs about Islam and, hoping for the greatest impact, geared them toward children.
With chipper arrangements that would be at home in kindergarten classrooms, "Ben Lee Sings Songs About Islam for the Whole Family" explains the religion's core beliefs with references to the Koran.Lee, an Australian who lives in Los Angeles, said he knew the power of songs through his career and also by observing his seven-year-old daughter.
"That's the beauty of the pop song -- you can say anything, and if you say it in two and a half minutes with a catchy chorus, it becomes digestible," said the affable 38-year-old."I think I'm at the point in my life where you start realizing that any lasting effect that you're going to have on the human race is going to be through the influence you can make on the next generation," he told AFP with a chuckle.
Lee will donate all proceeds from the album to the American Civil Liberties Union which has aggressively challenged Trump on rights issues including his sweeping ban -- since suspended by the courts -- on travelers from seven Muslim-majority nations.
Non-literal take on faith
But Lee does not see his album, which comes out Friday, as political. Instead, he is hoping to bring a nuanced understanding of religion.Lee, who grew up Jewish, said he had reached a spiritual "fork in the road" where he could no longer take religions literally but wanted to appreciate them.
The album's goal "is to focus on the commonalities and on beginning to think mythologically about these cultural narratives -- and introducing children to thinking in that way as opposed to thinking literally," Lee said."All of these religions are like Greek myths or Shakespeare. They provide great insights into humanity."
The music on "Ben Lee Sings Songs About Islam for the Whole Family" is upbeat and direct.On "Ramadan," Lee strums a folk-rock guitar to maracas and a bit of jazzy piano as he explains the holy month of fasting."Ramadan, oh Ramadan / We're so happy when you come / And sad to leave you when you're gone / We'll miss you, Ramadan," he sings.
On "La Ilaha Il Allah," Lee turns the core Arabic-language creed of Islam -- "There is no God but God" -- into a campfire-like sing-along alongside religious stories. Lee then goes into a rocking chorus to tell the religion's meaning on "Islam Means Surrender."
Full respect intended
Lee said he has read much of the Koran and studied Sufism, Islam's mystical movement that embraces music as a spiritual path.More conservative Islamic schools, notably the Wahhabis who dominate Saudi Arabia, frown on music in religion.Lee said he fully intended his album to be respectful.
"I'm not depicting pictures of Mohammed," he said, in reference to Islam's general prohibition on images of its prophet, "I'm singing songs. I would never want to do something that's perceived as an insult."Lee has been working on five separate albums on major religions -- Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism -- but said he hurried out his latest work in light of current events.
Lee, who has collaborated with leading alternative rockers including Liz Phair and Dinosaur Jr.'s Lou Barlow, in 2013 put out an album on his experiences with ayahuasca, the psychedelic brew from Amazonian shamans."I've always been interested in taking fairly fringe concepts and making them palatable," he said.
In a political climate that some have described as "post-truth," Lee said his look into religion was all the more timely."All religions -- no matter how much they've been misinterpreted by fundamentalists and by orthodoxy and literalists -- at their core are about a search for truth," he said.
The patient's gallbladder was extremely inflamed and had grown six times its original size (Photo: AFP)
New Delhi: A 60-year-old woman, who was suffering from acute stomach pain, had over 830 stones removed from her gallbladder at a city hospital here, doctors said today.
The patient, suspected to be suffering from a cancerous tumour, had also been experiencing intermittent bouts of fever and was advised to go for an ultrasound and CT scan.
A team of specialists at Fortis Hospital in Shalimar Bagh performed a two-hour laparoscopic procedure on the patient in January to remove her gallbladder.
"The patient's gallbladder was extremely inflamed and had grown six times its original size. As per plan, this was a laparoscopic surgery wherein her gallbladder would be removed," said Amit Javed, consultant, gastrointestinal surgery at Fortis Hospital.
"However, after its removal, when we opened the gallbladder to look at what was inside before sending it for biopsy, to our astonishment, we found several hundred small and large gall stones inside it. In total, there were 838 gallstones," Javed said.
Gallstones cause inflammation of gall bladder, severe pain and symptoms of indigestion and complications like blockage of the bile duct, leading to jaundice, severe infection, and pancreatitis. They are also commonly found in patients with gall bladder cancer.
"The only remedy to both gallstones as well as cancer of the gallbladder is complete removal of the organ. Gallstones are masses formed abnormally in the gall bladder or bile ducts from bile pigments, cholesterol, and calcium salts.
"Gallstones can also develop when there is too much cholesterol in the bile secreted by the liver. The incidents of gallbladder cancer in North and Central India are very high, and commoner in women. Northern India is much more prone to gallbladder cancer than South India," Mahipal Bhanot, Facility Director at the hospital said.
New Delhi: With India Beach Fashion Week all set to hit Goa soon for its 4th season, here's a sneak peek at the thrilling ride ahead.
Crocs, is the associate sponsor for India's biggest resort-wear fashion event, where the brand will collaborate with six designers from the resort wear segment of the fashion industry.
The three-day extravaganza, which will kick-start from March 6 to March 8, will witness a wide variety of beach-friendly styles for men, women and kids in the collections from designers Asmita Marwa, Flirtacious, Ken Ferns, Sanjay Hingu and Asif Merchant.
Stylish mesh sneakers, heels, wedges, funky sandals, slides, beach flip flops and many more designs have been selected as a part of their runway collection for the ramp show.
Sanjay Hingu and Asif Merchant's blue and white range of resort wear will be going the casual way, while brand Flirtacious will be sporting fun wedges by Crocs to compliment their multi-coloured swimwear collection.
Ken Ferns' fun collection full of prints and twisted colors paired with the best of the shoes that Crocs has to offer will tempt you to get your hands on the complete look right away. Adding to the fun, celebrities like Lopamudra Raut and Rhea Chakraborty will be seen walking the ramp.
Crocs is all for promoting new talents and this will be showcased on the ramp by 8 Gen-Next designers on Day 2. Asmita Marwa will be sporting multiple styles from Crocs with a surprise element for the audience on Day 3.
Deepak Chhabra, Chief Executive Officer, Crocs India said: "India Beach Fashion Week has emerged as Asia's largest consortium of designers under the same category. We believe that this festival will be a good opportunity to connect with an engaged and targeted audience. We are excited that this collaboration will help us reiterate our brand's ethos of creativity, playful energy and love for fashion. I am confident that this show will be a spectacular success."
Azerbaijan escalated situation on the border to silence its people - Shahin Mirzoyev (video)
The recent tensions on the Karabakh-Azerbaijan border are resulted by Aliyev's domestic policies, says Shahin Mirzoyev, an activist and member of Azerbaijans ethnic Talysh minority, who fled Azerbaijan and was granted political asylum by the Armenian authorities. It is well known that Aliyev appointed his wife [Mehriban] as first vice-president and Minister of Internal Affairs appointed his son as his deputy, which caused public outcry. They aggravated the situation to silence their people, he said. Mirzoyev understands the Talysh families who have remained in Azerbaijan despite their great desire to leave the country. A needless word or step and it will mean an end not only for them but also for their relatives, he said adding that his relatives in Azerbaijan are also in danger. Shahin Mirzoyev says he is threatened every day. Even members of the Azerbaijani parliament offer to execute him as an enemy of the state. Mirzoyev says people in Armenia treated him very well and he is trying to adapt to local life. He thinks the karabakh conflict will be resolved only after the collapse of the Aliyev regime. The weapon of each and every leader is his people, but Aliyev does not have that weapon, he said in conclusion.
The tribute video to Baba Ramdev now has over nine lakh views on Youtube. (Photo: Youtube)
Baba Ramdev has amazed quite a few thousand people and with his regular antics we cant help but be amused with the yoga guru. A Youtuber has paid tribute to the Baba with a hilarious yoga dance that is also going viral.
The Youtuber Shraey Khanna along with a dance troupe is seen grooving to a fusion of yoga and contemporary dance moves. The video obviously has the popular voice of Baba Ramdev in the background during his yoga sessions and obviously that signature laugh.
The video also features some of Baba Ramdevs health tips mimicked by the dancers. The funny video now has over nine lakh views on Youtube and we bet even the yoga guru would enjoy watching it.
Watch the video here:
I was sitting with a 40-year-old woman in a burqa, talking to men about womens safety in Mandaveli in East Delhi, when a man said that it is becoming increasingly difficult for them to provide safety to women who are stepping out to work and they are all so sexy, it gets difficult. The woman in the burqa protested that she was grabbed a day ago! That is when I realised that these men are not even talking about real women. They are viewing women from a certain perspective due to a certain kind of porn that is circulating on social media, says filmmaker Madhureeta Anand.
Madhureeta is making a documentary on how porn is shaping mens thoughts about women. Even sex workers are complaining that men come and want to try all sorts of weird things. Sex workers tell them that there is a difference between pornography and real life. Ideas about BDSM have been messed up. A lot of porn is confusing young people. So, I have realised that teaching women about womens safety makes no sense. We need to reach out to men.
Madhureeta says that she enjoys porn as well but people need to understand what kind of porn is not right to watch. No, we do not want to ban porn at all. We recognise the fact that people want to watch porn and banning something is never the solution. Anyway, we are living in a digital age and no matter what you do, people will find a way around it. There can be policing for people who watch rape videos and child porn; but everything else is a useless pursuit. We want to work with people who are watching porn regularly.
The past four or five years has seen an explosion of male WhatsApp groups leading to a free sharing of porn. The person who is receiving it doesnt really have a choice. These videos dont consider factors like the state of the receivers mental health. Many people sharing and receiving these videos dont even know that its illegal to watch child porn and rape videos. I feel this a ticking time bomb and needs to be addressed at large. Young people do not know if there has been any manipulation in these videos and the figures are alarming, rues Madhureeta.
A 2014 study, by the NGO Rescue, showed that 80 per cent of college students are accessing porn on their phones. About 40 per cent of them watch rape porn regularly. Of the ones watching rape porn, 76 per cent said that they really feel like raping women after watching it. This is the kind of direct result that we have seen. Men are showing off porn videos now. It has gotten a sense of acceptance. Many youngsters want to be like the men in these videos. It is not just the safety of women but also the mental well being of men that is at stake here, she explains,
The awareness series that Madhureeta wants to make will be circulated on men-only WhatsApp groups and will also be given to schools if they want it. It will also be dubbed in several languages for a wider reach. We are dealing with factors like illiteracy and the fact that this series wont be watched with family. So we plan to have a direct communication, we will also be providing helpline numbers, she says.
While doing research for this documentary, a lot of information emerged about porn viewing habits in India, most of which happens to be illegal. But we dont want to put out messages that judge people who watch porn. The last thing you want to tell an addict is that it is morally wrong. It is a sure way of putting them off, she adds.
Madhureeta has also met men who say they are fed up of the overdose of explicit porn videos. I asked them why dont they get off these groups? I was told that the moment you get off these groups your friends call to ask what happened, you went soft? This sort of crude stuff occurs. So for an attitude change, someone from the inside will have to make a positive move. To make this happen, Madhureeta has tied up with some NGOs that work with men, who will take it to communities and schools and start talking about it.
Talking about the role of cyber cell to stop illegal videos from circulating, she says, They have banned quite a few websites that have child pornography. The efforts are real but not enough. The main issue is that people dont think it is really bad. They havent really understood the exact implications of something like this. If a cop is sitting with a guy who is watching a rape video, he is not likely to arrest him. It is because nobody has made the effort to make him understand that this kind of porn is totally illegal. No body has understood the legality and our position on matters relating to sex and sexuality is already very private. You can consume porn privately but you are not supposed to talk about it publicly. There are blurry lines. The court has given some really good judgements related to rape and child porn, but people dont know them.
Madhureeta is trying to tell people that they can differentiate between legal and illegal porn. For example, in the West if you are watching a rape video or child porn, you certainly know that you are doing a wrong thing. But in India we are not sure. Such is the mindset. Of course we are not telling people what to watch, everyone has different preferences when it comes to porn. But we will definitely tell people that if rape and child porn is found on you, you can go to jail for ten years. They should start to tell the difference themselves. In the documentary series she also plans to include quotes by people who many men look up to.
Crowdfunding for the project on Wishberry, Madhureeta adds, I am not only getting funders but partners in this movement too. The idea is to impact society. It is about people. Every person who puts in money for this is sort of committing to this cause. I hope this documentary will create enough awareness and let people choose their porn wisely.
New Delhi: On the basis of a complaint by a female Chinese student, who was allegedly molested by a pot vendor at her rented house in Kailash colony in South Delhi, the Delhi Police has arrested the accused.
In her complaint, the Lady Shri Ram College student alleged that a pot vendor had molested her, when she refused to buy his flower pot.
On the basis of her complaint, a case was registered under section 354 (molestation) against the culprit, identified as Avinish at the police station.
A manhunt was then launched to nab the accused on the basis of description given by the complainant.
Kohima: One kilogramme of a banned drug commonly know as 'Horse Drug' was seized and one person was arrested in this connection by police from the Nagaland-Manipur inter-state check gate.
Police seized one kilogramme of Horse Drug having composition of methamphetamine and caffeine from the possession of Hussain Ahmed (26) of Brahmanshsan Block-2, Karimganj district of Assam yesterday while conducting routine frisking of vehicles, said PRO Kohima Police Atu Zumvu.
The illegal drug was found neatly wrapped in four packets, he said.
As per preliminary statement of the accused, the drug was procured from Senapati in Manipur and was supposed to be delivered to a client at Dimapur in Nagaland.
This illegal drug is especially popular in Thailand, Indonesia and Philippines where it is imported from Burma or Laos.
In this connection a case has been registered at Khuzama Police Station under NDPS Act and further investigation is in progress, Police added.
Ludhiana: Two teenaged sisters, who were thrown into a canal by their parents over suspicion that they had boyfriends, were forced to write a note by their father, to make the murder look like a suicide.
According to a report in Hindustan Times, one of the sisters, 15-year-old Jyoti, died while her sibling Priti survived. They were found floating in the water by a passerby at the Sidhwan canal near Barewal bridge in Ludhiana.
It was the girls mother who cracked and told the police that she along with her husband had hatched a plan to murder their daughter by drowning them in a canal. The father forced them into writing a suicide note to escape police action. They had planned to file a missing persons report after getting rid of their daughters.
The couple had drugged their daughters and threw them into a canal, on suspicion of having boyfriends without their approval, police said.
According to the police, the girls had come late on Monday night, which 'confirmed' the parents doubts that they were in a relationship. Both of them were studying in Grade 10.
Her father offered them food laced with drugs. When they lost consciousness, their parents threw them in a canal, Sub-Inspector Davinder Sharma was quoted as saying.
He further added that the parents had tried to strangle Jyoti before throwing her into the canal.
Priti had first claimed that she was an orphan and used to beg for food. She also said that she used to beg for food at a nearby temple and became unconscious after eating food given by a stranger.
However, after persistent questioning, the girl narrated the incident.
The police are on the lookout for the parents -- Uday Chand and Laxmi who have been charged with murder and attempted murder.
The MLAs personal assistant J. Ashok Reddy not only abused the lineman but also hit him in the presence of Congress workers and leaders. (Representational image)
Hyderabad: Angry at Telangana State Transco department lineman D. Ramesh for disconnecting the power supply to his residence in Parigi town on Wednesday evening, local Congress MLA T. Rammohan Reddy abused and even threatened to take action against him.
Mr Rammohan Reddy went to the extent of telling Mr Ramesh that one day, he will be the minister for power or the chief minister when the Congress returns to power in the next elections to beheld in 2019.
The MLAs personal assistant J. Ashok Reddy not only abused the lineman but also hit him in the presence of Congress workers and leaders.
MLAs assistant booked for assault on lineman
Angry at power lineman D. Ramesh for disconnecting supply to his residence in Parigi town on Wednesday evening, Congress MLA T. Rammohan Reddy abused the linesman while his PA beat him up.
Mr Ramesh disconnected the power supply because the MLA had not paid his power bill of Rs 6,000 for January before the due date of February 25.
On a complaint from the lineman, Parigi police registered a case against the MLA's PA for assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharging his duty (353), voluntarily causing hurt (323) and intentionally insulting (504), of the IPC.
We are collecting evidence. Based on that we will proceed, sub-inspector Y. Nagesh told DC. Mr Ramesh had gone to the residence of Mr Rammohan Reddy on Wednesday to demand payment of the overdue power bill. The MLAs assistant was sitting with a group of Congress leaders and workers and when Mr Ramesh told him that he would have to disconnect the supply if the power bill was not paid, an angry Ashok Reddy told him: Is this how you demand payment? You want to defame the MLA in presence of his partymen? We wont pay you anything... go and do whatever you want to.
Mr Ramesh then spoke to his superior in the power department and immediately came back and disconnected the supply. Mr Ashok Reddy then attacked the lineman and beat him up.
The MLA, who was away at the time, called up Mr Ramesh and abused him, warning him he will one day be a minister or Chief Minister. At around 10 pm, Mr Ramesh lodged a police complaint against Mr Ashok Reddy. Neither the MLA nor his assistant responded to calls by this correspondent.
The head was completely detached from the torso. Police could not confirm if the victim was murdered or died of natural cause. (Representational image)
Hyderabad: The headless body of a middle-aged man was found at the polo ground in Secunderabad on Friday. The body was decomposed and was being dragged by a pack of dogs. Locals found the skull and torso of the victim when dogs were feeding on it. Police suspect the body is around five days old.
Begumpet police, who shifted the body to the morgue, said there are injuries on the hands and legs. The head was completely detached from the torso. Police could not confirm if the victim was murdered or died of natural cause. The body was found in a corner of the ground where bushes are there. No one had noticed it. We are not sure how the body ended up there, said a police officer from Begumpet. Police said the man has not yet been identified.
M. Abhishek, 22, and K. Samyuktha, 21, poured kerosene over their bodies and set fire to themselves at a flat in Ramnagar. (Representational image)
Hyderabad: A BTech student died and her boyfriend suffered serious injuries when they both set themselves ablaze at their friend's house at Musheerabad. The duo, engineering students of JNTU, visited their friend's house on Friday and when her friends went out, they set themselves ablaze.
M. Abhishek, 22, and K. Samyuktha, 21, poured kerosene over their bodies and set fire to themselves at a flat in Ramnagar. Neighbours and their friends broke into the house and tried to rescue them. While Samyuktha died on the spot, Abhishek is undergoing treatment at Gandhi Hospital with severe burns.
Police suspect they decided to end their lives as their families were against their marriage.
Police said Abhishek and Samyuktha belonged to Narsapur in Medak district. They have been in a relationship for a while. They frequently used to visit their friend's house in Ramnagar.
"On Friday, they came to their friend's house and stayed there saying they wanted to prepare for an upcoming examination. When their friend went out they committed suicide," said a police officer from Musheerabad.
Police officials said that Abhishek had undergone a kidney transplant surgery six months ago and both he and his girlfriend were worried about his health. Cops are investigating if this was one of the reason for their suicide. Musheerabad police booked a case and started an investigation.
The toddler was seen completely engrossed in playing with a paper boat she was holding. (Representational image)
Bhopal: A local court here on Thursday evening witnessed a heart-rending sight with a three-year-old girl, a rape victim, seen fiddling with a paper boat all through the proceedings involving her and her mothers deposition in the case, apparently being oblivious of the tragedy that had befallen on her.
The toddler was seen completely engrossed in playing with a paper boat she was holding. She occasionally also looked at the ink on her fingers applied by the court officials to take finger prints.
Her nervous looks and blank stares during her deposition turned the court proceedings into a somber affair.
She was a very lively and vivacious girl before the incident. She now appears completely nervous, the childs kin who were accompanied her told the media here.
We are devastated, they said. Her parents learnt about sexual abuse of their child, a nursery student, when they visited a doctor after they noticed her injuries.
They later approached the Kolar police station here to register FIR against the accused, Ashutosh Pratap Singh who ran the preschool.
But, they were turned away by the in-charge of the police station Gaurav Singh Bundela and the FIR was registered three days later on February 27 following intervention of a senior police officer. The accused was arrested on March 1 and remanded to police custody till March 14.
Incidentally, a video showing the accused in the company of the station house officer of the police station Bundela, has gone viral forcing the authorities to shun him.
According to the preliminary medical examinations the girl was raped. Meanwhile, the Madhya Pradesh human rights commission has sought a report from the police seeking an explanation on the delay in registering an FIR in the case.
Hyderabad: Following alleged harassment from senior officials and facing charges of corruption, sub-inspector G. Chittibabu, 55, shot his wife dead with his service revolver and killed himself in Siddipet district on Friday.
Chittibabu was recently attached to the ACP office from the police station at Dubbaka. DIG, Hyderabad range, Akun Sabharwal said the Medak assistant superintendent of police would inquire into the case.
The murder-suicide occurred less than an hour after senior police officials had addressed a press meet in Dubbaka regarding the arrest of some persons pretending to be journalists.
Chittibabu and his wife Sarojana had returned to their home at the police quarters in Dubbaka from Siddipet in the afternoon.
Siddipet commissoner insulted dad, says son
When his driver Prabhakar went to their house to arrange lunch, he found them lying in blood.
Prabhakar called his colleagues who rushed to the spot. They found Sarojana dead and Chittibabu gasping. They rushed him to a hospital where he died.
Chittibabus family alleged that he committed suicide as he was unable to bear the harassment of his superiors. His son Prem Kumar said the Siddipet commissioner, ACP and inspector had been harassing his father as he was a Dalit. Even yesterday he told me that the commissioner had insulted him, Mr Prem Kumar alleged.
Scores of villagers and Dalit activists staged a protest in front of the Dubbaka police station. Senior BJP leader Raghunandan Rao claimed it was a government murder.
Siddipet police commissioner Shivakumar said Chittibabu had been suspended on March 1 after complaints of irregularities and involvement in civil disputes, but the orders had not been served.
Civil activist enters 10th day of hunger strike
Activist Hayk Kyureghyan has entered the 10th day of his hunger strike in support of Artur Sargsyan (nicknamed Bringer of Bread). Artur Sargsyan drove his car through a police cordon on July 26 to take food to the members of the Sasna Dzrer group who remained barricaded in a police station they had seized two weeks ago. Sargsyan has been on hunger strike at the Convicts Hospital for more than 20 days in protest against a court decision to release him from pre-trial detention on his own recognizance. A1+ Company learned from the Penitentiary Department of the Justice Ministry that Kyureghyans condition is satisfactory and he is under medical supervision. In September 2015, civil activist Hayk Kyureghyan was sentenced to nine years in prison for firing an air pistol in the direction of police in July, 2014. He was detained following an incident that occurred on July 12, 2014 before a trial of opposition Tsekhakron Party leader Shant Harutyunyan and his friends. The young man climbed atop a car in a court yard and shot an air pistol off several times in the direction of the police to protest the way political trials are handled in Armenia. The prosecutor in the case had asked 14 years for the activist. Hayks father, Armenak Kyureghyan, does not have any news about his son. Hayk has not contacted his family since he started the hunger strike. Inmates usually make telephone calls to stay in contact with their family members. They phone in turn. Hayks turn has not come yet, says Armenak Kyureghyan. Hayk is serving his prison term in the Armavir penitentiary institution.
Kollam: Mathew Roy, a Lance Naik in the Indian Army who had been shown as part of a sting operation highlighting the controversial 'sahayak' system, was found dead a few days after he went 'missing' and his crushed family is crying out for justice.
Roy Mathew's decomposing body, indicating that he was dead for at least three days, was found in a barrack in Maharashtra's Deolali Cantonment late on Thursday.
In the sting operation earlier, Roy allegedly appeared and exposed the system in which jawans were often subjected to tasks by officers including walking dogs and taking children to school.
A troubled Roy had called his family after the sting operation was aired on the television, and had conveyed that his life was in danger, following which he mysteriously disappeared.
"He called me about what was being shown on the TV channels and was crying. I told him that everything will be alright and not to worry. After that I tried calling him again but his phone was switched off. I need to know what happened to my husband," said Roy's wife Fini amid tears.
After Roy's disturbing phone call, his family immediately filed a complaint in the local police station, alleging that the soldier was being harassed in his work place.
However, the Army has categorically ruled out murder and has asserted that it seems to be a clear case of 'suicide'.
"Preliminary investigations have now revealed that the suicide may be the result of a series of events which were triggered by media personnel managing to videograph the deceased by asking leading questions on his duties as a buddy, without his knowledge. It is very likely that the guilt factor of letting down his superiors or conveying the false impression to an unknown individual, led to take the extreme step," the Army said in a statement.
They also protested against the laxity on the part of the authorities in handling the case.
Madurai: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Thursday dismissed two PILs filed against supply of Thamirabarani water in the manufacture of the two popular colas of American multinational corporations.
The order also removed the interim stay passed by this court in November 2016 banning the co-packers of Pepsi and Coca-Cola from using the water from the river for their bottling plant. While the division bench comprising Justice A. Selvam and P. Kalai-yarasan in the order charged one of the PIL petitioners DA Prabakar, secretary of the Tirunelveli District Consumer Protection Association for approaching the court with malafide intention for vindictive enmity, they also recorded their anguish against the government for not taking steps to improve the irrigation system during the last 70 years after independence to avoid the surplus outflow of Thamirabarani river water into the sea.
Even after micro level study and recommendations to conserve the surface water in the upper reaches by forming new tanks/ponds according to the topography of the area to avoid surplus outlet into the seas as well as transferring the surplus water of Thamirabarani basin to adjoining basins, nothing has moved.
The managing director of South India Bottling Co (P) Ltd, co-packers for Coca-Cola Company, SIPCOT Industrial Growth Centre, Gangaikondan village, Tirunelveli, in his counter, told the court that Prabakar, who was dealing with the companys cases for nearly three years, was removed from service for unethical practices.
He had since then been filing petitions against them before various forums and also in National Green Tribunal, South Zone to settle personal grievances, and his writ petition does not involve any issue of public interest. Considering this, while the court condemned Prabakar it also observed that PIL shouldnt be allowed to be misused for enmity.
Prathishta Business Solution Pvt. Ltd, the co-packer of Pepsi Cola Company and South India Bottling Company, were operating in 30 acres each in Gangaikondan SIPCOT after signing a contract for a period of 99 years with the state government. The government also agreed to supply 9 lakh litres and 15 lakh liters of water daily to these two companies respectively at a rate of `37.50 per 1,000 litres.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the RSS leader who offered bounty for his head (Photo: PTI/ANI)
Ujjain: RSS leader Kundan Chandravat, who had announced a bounty of Rs 1 crore for beheading the Kerala Chief Minister, has retracted his statement after it drew condemnation from various quarters including the Sangh.
Chandravat, RSS Sah Prachar Pramukh in Ujjain, claimed he got some phone calls from Kerala threatening to kill him and was being targeted in social media.
"I was pained on the issue of murders of Swayamsevaks and therefore made an emotional statement. I retract it (statement) and express my regret," Chandravat said in a statement late last night.
"I also got some phone calls from Kerala in which an unidentified caller threatened to kill me," he claimed.
Chandravat, in a meeting here, had announced the bounty to avenge the killing of RSS workers in Kerala, allegedly by CPI-M workers.
His speech sparked an uproar, drawing condemnation from the RSS, the CPI(M) and the Congress on Friday.
In a video, which went viral, Chandravat is purportedly seen saying that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is behind the killing of RSS workers there and he will pay Rs 1 crore to anyone who beheads him and brings his (Vijayan's) head to him.
He also claimed that 300 innocent people belonging to the RSS had been killed but the Kerala Chief Minister was turning a blind eye.
The RSS was quick to condemn Chandravat's statement, stating the organisation did not believe in violence.
"The RSS strongly condemns such statement. The Sangh does not believe in violence. But we will continue to protest against attacks on our workers in Kerala in a democratic and peaceful manner," RSS national 'Sah Prachar Pramukh' (Joint Chief of Publicity) J Nandakumar had told PTI in Delhi.
Vijayan, however, dismissed the threat to his life, saying such calls would not prevent him from travelling around, while Kerala's ruling CPI(M) and Congress sought the arrest of Chandravat for his outrageous comments.
Kerala has been witnessing a series of political clashes between the cadres of BJP-RSS and the ruling CPI(M),especially in the northern Kannur district from where Vijayan hails, for a long time. Both parties have blamed each other for the cycle of violence which has claimed several lives on both sides.
New Delhi: The daughter of Pathankot martyr Lance Naik Moolraj on Friday urged Delhi University student Gurmehar Kaur not to insult her father Captain Mandeep Singhs sacrifice.
I just want to ask Gurmehar to stop insulting her fathers sacrifice. Please Gurmehar stop criticizing the people, who have given their lives for this country and the people, who have lost their sons and fathers, the girl Pooja said.
Gurmehar shot to limelight last week after her Facebook post taking on the RSS-backed Akhil Bharatiya Vidya Parishad (ABVP) went viral. She also drew flak after one of her older social media posts on her father, killed in Kashmir during the Kargil war, and her perceptions about Pakistan and war surfaced.
Pakistan did not kill my father. War killed him, read one part of the post.
Clashes had erupted last week after the ABVP allegedly manhandled and thrashed students protesting the cancellation of an event at Ramjas College at which controversial JNU student Umar Khalid was scheduled to speak.
New Delhi: Union Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi today pitched for "zero tolerance" for child begging.
"We have decided to come down heavily on children begging. I am planning a meeting with the Commissioner of Police and say zero tolerance (sic). I am not against begging but there should be no children on the street for begging," Gandhi said at a conclave hosted by FICCI Ladies Organisation.
She said she will also meet the Delhi Police Commissioner to curb child begging in the national capital.
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)- the apex body for children under the Women and Child Development Ministry- had recently released its 'Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Children in Street Situations'.
The SOP lays down a sequence of actions to be taken for restoration and rehabilitation of street children. It has assigned NGO 'Childline' to be "the first point of contact" for rescuing street children.
Children recovered by the NGO will next be produced before a Child Welfare Committee (CWC).
Thereafter, the CWC will pass an interim order for short-term care and will send the child to the nearest Child Care Institute (CCI) or a "fit person" until his or her family can be contacted.
The SOP also aims to provide these children with an Aadhaar card, a bank account, health insurance as well as a sponsorship scheme to help meet educational, nutritional and medical needs.
Save the Children, an NGO which helped NCPCR formulate these guidelines, had also announced last month that they plan to provide Aadhaar cards to all 50,000 street children in Delhi in the next six months.
Thiruvananthapuram: Opposition in Kerala Assembly staged a walkout on Friday after alleging that the government has leaked excerpts of the Budget for 2017-18 on Facebook.
Congress-led opposition legislators read out details of the state budget even as finance minister Thomas Isaac was presenting the document in the Assembly.
Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala said the finance minister should resign, because the budget was leaked from his office and its details were on social media before his speech.
The sanctity of the budget has been compromised. It has never happened in the legislative history of the country. The finance minister has no moral responsibility to continue in office, Congress spokesman Rajmohan Unnithan was reported as saying.
Meanwhile, Kerala government ordered a probe into the matter. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called it an unprecedented situation and Speaker Sreerama Krishanan said if the budget was leaked out it was a serious issue.
Isaac said that highlights of the Budget were sent to media by the Finance Minister's office and some of the announcement was released even before it was presented in the Assembly.
Only highlights meant for media were circulated, said Thomas Isaac.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the RSS leader who offered bounty for his head (Photo: PTI/ANI)
New Delhi: RSS leader Kundan Chandravat may have regretted announcing a bounty of Rs 1 crore for beheading the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, but the Sangh Parivar doesnt seem to think its enough. RSS sacked him from all posts in the organisation for his remarks that stirred a political storm in Kerala.
Kundan who made controversial statement at Ujjain protest mtg has been relieved of his responsibility in RSS, (sic) said a statement issued by the official Twitter handle of RSS.
Read: RSS leader 'regrets' offering Rs 1 cr for Kerala CMs head, retracts statement
Chandravat, 'Sah Prachar Pramukh' (Joint Chief of Publicity) of RSS in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain, announced the reward to avenge the killing of its workers in Kerala, but the Sangh had immediately distanced itself from the comments.
Facing massive backlash from all quarters, the leader said he regretted his statement.
"I was pained on the issue of murders of Swayamsevaks and therefore made an emotional statement. I retract it (statement) and express my regret," Chandravat said in a statement late Thursday night.
In a video, which went viral, Chandravat was purportedly seen saying that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is behind the killing of RSS workers there and he will pay Rs 1 crore to anyone who beheads him and brings his (Vijayan's) head to him.
He also claimed that 300 innocent people belonging to the RSS had been killed but the Kerala Chief Minister was turning a blind eye.
The RSS had condemned Chandravat's statement, stating the organisation did not believe in violence.
"The RSS strongly condemns such statement. The Sangh does not believe in violence. But we will continue to protest against attacks on our workers in Kerala in a democratic and peaceful manner," RSS national 'Sah Prachar Pramukh' J Nandakumar had told PTI in Delhi.
Vijayan, however, dismissed the threat to his life, saying such calls would not prevent him from travelling around, while Kerala's ruling CPI(M) and Congress sought the arrest of Chandravat for his outrageous comments.
Kerala has been witnessing a series of political clashes between the cadres of BJP-RSS and the ruling CPI(M),especially in the northern Kannur district from where Vijayan hails for a long time. Both parties have blamed each other for the cycle of violence which has claimed several lives on both sides.
RSS activists protest against attack on their office in Kerala. (Photo: ANI Twitter)
Kozhikode: A day after bomb was hurled at a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) office in Kallachy near Nadapuram, a Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) office at Vishnumangalam was set on fire by unidentified people on Thursday night.
No casualty has been reported so far in the incident.
In the attack at RSS office, four workers were injured after some unknown persons hurled a crude bomb. The injured have been identified as Babu, Vineesh, Sudhir and Sunil, police said.
While Babu and Vineesh, who suffered severe injuries in the abdomen and legs, have been admitted to the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (KMCH), the other two have been taken to a private hospital here, a senior police official said.
Investigation is underway to ascertain the motive behind the attack, he said.
The attack took place hours after an RSS functionary in Madhya Pradesh announced a Rs one crore bounty for beheading Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Kundan Chandravat, 'Sah Prachar Pramukh' of RSS in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain, announced the reward to avenge the killing of its workers in Kerala, allegedly by CPI-M workers.
"The Kerala Chief Minister is killing our RSS workers who want to take this country forward. I will pay Rs one crore to anyone who beheads him even if I have to sell my house," Chandravat was seen saying in a video, which has gone viral.
The RSS, however, distanced itself from Chandravat's remarks.
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday reviewed the security situation in the country, especially in Jammu and Kashmir and other border areas.
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi, Director of Intelligence Bureau Rajiv Jain and other senior officials briefed the him about the prevailing situation in the country, official sources said.
The situation in Jammu and Kashmir, other border areas and the hinterland was discussed threadbare, they said.
Busy with the electioneering in Uttar Pradesh, Singh attended his office in the North Block after nearly three weeks.
He has been campaigning for the BJP in Uttar Pradesh for a month and had last attended office more than a fortnight ago.
However, the home minister has been in touch with senior officials, who have kept him in the loop on various issues regularly, sources said.
Mr Juluri, a Indian-origin professor, teaches media studies and Asian studies at the University of San Francisco and is the author of Saraswatis Intelligence. (Photo: AP/Representational image)
Visakhapatnam: Is the caste system the very essence of Hinduism? Had the social hierarchies existed only in the Hindu society? Is Brahminism synonymous with Hinduism? At least, Californias education officials believe so. This has resulted in a lawsuit by a US-based Hindu group against the US officials.
According to the lawsuit, the official history curriculum in California has taken a lenient view of other religions by refusing negative examples, which could lead to prejudice against their followers. However, Hinduism was not viewed from the same lens.
It is unfortunate that state board officials have chosen to single out Hindu children for such negative treatment. We submitted many suggested revisions to the curriculum last year, but almost all were refused, leaving us with no choice but to file this case, said Arvind Kumar, a director of the California Parents for the Equalization of Educational Materials (CAPEEM), a Hindu-American advocacy organisation. The lawsuit was filed by CAPEEM and three community members.
Reacting to this, Professor Vamsee Juluri, who is not involved in the lawsuit, said: I do think it is (lawsuit) a needed step in order to demonstrate the inequities that still persist in the curriculum. The board backed off on the move to erase India last year, but many errors and discriminatory points on Hinduism have still remained there.
Mr Juluri, a Indian-origin professor, teaches media studies and Asian studies at the University of San Francisco and is the author of Saraswatis Intelligence.
The perspective of religions other than Hinduism is provided through each religions teachings, which include many virtues and characters central to those faiths. But Hinduism is not described as virtuous and the standards do not mention any traditional Hindu characters or narrative, read the lawsuit filed against California.
Join us! Armenian Civil Society Organizations Call to the Diaspora
With this open letter we, a group of civil society and human rights organizations from Armenia appeal to the Diaspora Armenians individuals, organizations and non-formal groups - to take an active stance in the political life of Armenia. We have always felt the great love of Diaspora for our country and are indeed grateful for immense and tireless support that our compatriots abroad were rendering to the people of Armenia throughout many years. However, since Armenias independence in 1991, we have lived and you have witnessed the heart-breaking conditions of our country: poverty, depopulation, and the slow surrender of our national sovereignty. Continuously rigged elections and political corruption have concentrated almost all socio economic power in the hands of an unrepresentative oligarchic elite. Natural resources are depleted to serve short-term and small group interests; poverty and social injustice grow in parallel with the remarkably improving welfare of a number of decision-makers. Civic and political rights of citizens are systematically violated, peaceful assemblies against the injustice are brutally cracked down and the controlled judiciary fails to ensure fair judgments, increasing the number of political prisoners. After all, the 4-day war of April 2016 revealed how the uncontrolled and unpunished corruption exhausts the resources of the Armenian Army and threatens the security of Armenia. Twenty-five years after the Independence, we can no longer consider these conditions to be the birth-pains of a new republic. Though it may not seem apparent upon first glance, the lack of democracy underpins nearly all other national issues. Indeed, democracy is at the heart of nation-building in the 21st century. We, the undersigned, have worked and fought tirelessly for rule of law and democracy in Armenia. We have developed the infrastructure and activated our citizens in monitoring elections the single most fundamental process of democracy. But our resources have been limited. We are writing to tell you that we need you. Not your donations or remittances, but you your spirit and physical presence in Armenia here on the ground, at the voting precincts engaging, observing, and taking ownership of your role in this historic quest for Armenian democracy. The upcoming Parliamentary Elections are of paramount importance for the country. As a result of the Constitutional Referendum of 2015, which was itself marred by rampant corruption, Armenia now begins its transition to a parliamentary republic. This means there will be no further presidential elections, and the upcoming Parliamentary Elections will decide the future of Armenia. We urge all the Diaspora organizations, institutions and active individuals to join us in our endeavors and render your support to promote justice, human rights, free and fair elections, accountable governance, civil rights and dignity. Get in touch with us, come to us and lets walk this path together. The future of Armenia is democratic, and that future begins today, with your participation and solidarity. Join us! Find out how to join our election observation efforts by visiting www.citizenobserver.am or emailing [email protected] We encourage all Armenians of the Diaspora to join, regardless of age, citizenship, political affiliation, or fluency in Armenian. Signed, Transparency International Anticorruption Center Journalists Club Asparez Europe in Law Association Helsinki Citizens Assembly Vanadzor Goris Journalists Club Centre for Community Mobilization and Support Sose NGO National Young Womens Christian Association of Armenia The Northern Branch of Eurasia Partnership Foundation Peace Dialogue NGO Womens Resource Center Public Information and Knowledge Center Foundation against Violations of Law Guarantee Center of Civil Society Lori Citizens Union LogoS NGO Regional Development and Research Center (RDRC) NGO Martuni Women's Community Council NGO "Farmers' movement" NGO Yerevan Press Club Urban Foundation Committee to Protect Freedom of Expression "Shogher" (Shines) Union New Generation Humanitarian NGO Media Initiatives Center Analytical Centre on Globalization and Regional Cooperation NGO Institute to Comprehensive Information For Equal Rights NGO Araza NGO Family and Community NGO Armenian Progressive Youth NGO Confidence healthcare NGO Havat Public Organization of Hard-of-Hearing Childrens Mothers Small and Medium Business Foundation Family Health Care Network Charitable NGO Blejan NGO World Vision Armenia Center for Economic Rights NGO Armenian Constitutional Right-Protective Center Women Support to Community NGO
New Delhi: The Election Commission has rejected the response filed by AIADMK on V.K. Sasikalas elevation as interim general secretary of the party. The reason cited was that the reply was submitted by Sasikalas nephew T.T.V. Dinakaran, who is not on the poll panels list of party office bearers.
The poll body said that a response should be submitted by Sasikala herself and it should come in by March 10. Since Dinakaran is not on the list of party office bearers, hence the reply should either be submitted under your own signature or you may duly or you may duly authorise somebody to do so in your behalf, the EC notice said.
The AIADMK has defended the decision to appoint Sasikala as its interim general secretary, saying the general council of the party has the authority to make such an appointment.
It further said that the functioning of the party would have come to a standstill had a new general secretary not been appointed after the demise of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa.
In its response to the February 17 notice by the EC, the AIADMK also said the reply was signed by Dinakaran who was hurriedly reinducted into the party and nominated AIADMK deputy general secretary just before she left for a Karnataka prison to serve her remaining sentence in a disproportionate assets case.
New Delhi: Airports across the country have been alerted about the possibility of UP minister Gayatri Prajapati, accused of rape, trying to flee the country. A Letter of Cancellation will soon be opened against him and all airports have been alerted to prevent the 49-year-old Prajapati from fleeing the country, official sources said.
A letter of cancellation is a technical term used for alerting immigration authorities about any possible move by a suspect to leave the country.
Whenever passport of the suspect comes for immigration clearance at any exit point of the country, the automated system warns the official to not let the person leave.
Senior government sources said that regular meetings of the Commission deal with technical matters concerned with implementation of the Treaty and do not amount to talks between the two governments.
New Delhi: In a major development highlighting some improvement in ties this year and triggering speculation of a re-think of sorts by New Delhi, India has accepted Pakistans invitation to attend a meeting on the 1960 Indus Water Treaty between the two countries that will take place in Lahore later this month but senior government sources said the move does not amount to talks between the two governments and that there is no shift in the Indian governments position.
New Delhi seems to be downplaying the acceptance of the invitation. Senior government sources said that regular meetings of the Indus Commissioners are only to discuss technical matters and not political issues. But it may be recalled that in the wake of the Uri terror attack last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had declared at an internal meeting to review the treaty last September that blood and water cannot flow together.
After the meeting back then, the government had reportedly decided to suspend further talks and increase the utilisation of rivers flowing through Jammu and Kashmir to fully exercise Indias rights under the pact.
Senior government sources said that regular meetings of the Commission deal with technical matters concerned with implementation of the Treaty and do not amount to talks between the two governments.
Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palanisamy on Friday urged Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar to exempt Tamil Nadu from the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
The Chief Minister "made a request" with Javadekar in this regard during a meeting in Chennai, a brief government release said.
The Chief Minister had taken up the matter during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this week.
He had urged Modi to approve two Tamil Nadu bills, allowing exemption for the students from the state from appearing in NEET to get admission into medical and dental colleges in the state.
Recently, Saudi police arrested him after the school van he was driving had an accident. (Representational image)
Hyderabad: Debts forced Srinivas, 26, from Parigi, to go to Saudi Arabia. Srinivas started working as the driver of a school bus three years ago. Recently, Saudi police arrested him after the school van he was driving had an accident.
On Thursday, his family received word that Srinivas had committed suicide three days ago. His family alleged that Srinivas was murdered by Saudi police. They demanded a thorough inquiry into his death and to bring his body home.
Oditha Srinivas was the third son of Oditha Govinda Naik and Manibai, farmers hailing from Ibrahimpur tanda in Vikarabad district. While his two elder brothers Shankar and Santosh took up farming, Srinivas went to school. But his poor finances forced him to quit studies after SSC. Since then, he had been helping his father and brother on the farm.
The situation became worse due to the monsoon failure four years ago. Srinivas, who had heard the stories of villagers who went to the Gulf, decided to go there so that he can clear his family's debts.
He always spoke about clearing debts first and then save something for the future. But he is dead in a distant land now. We are waiting to have a last look at him, his father said.
Nearly 10 days ago the school van which he was driving met with an accident and he was arrested. A court convicted him to 10 days imprisonment and fine. Three days ago he was found hanging in the prisons bathroom.
My brother is not likely to commit suicide. There is something suspicious behind his death. We appeal to the government to inquire into his death and ensure that his body reaches us, his brothers said.
Kollam: An Army man from Kollam who had alleged that he was mistreated in his Army camp, was found dead under mysterious circumstances. The body of gunner Roy Mathew, 33, of Cherukulathu Veedu at Karuvelil, Ezhukone here, was found from near the Army camp at Nasik in Maharashtra on Thursday.
Roy Mathew had joined the Indian Army about 13 years ago and was working as a gunner with the rocket regiment 214 in Nasik camp for the past one year.
The issues started as three Army men with the camp, including Roy Mathew, had given statements to a local channel there that the higher officials were mistreating them inside the camp, even forcing them to polish their shoes and wash the laundry. The visuals were taken with a hidden camera and aired with their faces masked. However, this was found out by the senior officers, allege the relatives of Roy Mathew. They said Roy Mathew had contacted his wife Fini Roy for the last time on February 25 after which he went missing. Roy had told his wife that he had some issues at his workplace. He was crying over phone, she said.
A commanding officer from the camp contacted us on Thursday morning and said a body similar to that of Roy was found from near the Army camp. It was three-day-old and was shifted for autopsy. The last time we heard from him was on February 25 when he was mentally disturbed, said Roys brother John Mathew. Thereafter, his phone remained switched off. The relatives also tried to contact the Army officers, but in vain. Roys wife has also filed a petition with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on the incident.
He hanged himself using a nylon rope when his parents were not at home on Thursday evening.
Chennai: A plus-2 student in Oorapkkam in Kancheepuram district committed suicide by hanging himself after he could not perform well in the Tamil language examination on Thursday.
Police identified the deceased as K Santhosh Kumar. He hanged himself using a nylon rope when his parents were not at home on Thursday evening.
The budget has virtually doubled the allocation for paddy cultivation from Rs 385 crore last year to Rs 700 crore but agriculture as a sector has not got the impetus it deserved. There will be little for the government to boast about the increase in funds unless it is able to ensure that the farmers get the money, and that too, on time. What is actually required is a revolving fund exclusively for paddy farmers. At present, the farmers get Rs 14.70 and Rs 7.80 per kg as central and state government subsidy, respectively. They now get is separately and it will be a big boon for them if the government makes arrangement to disburse them together.
The governments behave as if it is their mercy when it comes to paddy procurement. Farmers will feel contented if the government gives them the assurance that their welfare will be taken care of. The two villains which attack paddy farmers are weeds and pests that have brought down productivity by 30 to 40 per cent. The normal production from an acre is about 2000 2250 kgs of rice but the attack by weeds and pests has seen it come down by 500 kgs. Who will take efforts to ward off this loss?
The budget is silent on the insurance scheme for farmers. A farmer gets a paltry Rs 5,000 for the loss of crops in one acre while his actual loss is its several fold. The government should have included a natural calamity fund in the budget. The intrusion of salt water in to paddy fields in Kuttanad has also not been addressed in the insurance scheme. Similarly pumping subsidy which has been allocated to them before every harvest season has also been pending since 2015.
(Author is executive director, Kuttanad Vikasana Samithi, as told to Cynthia Chandran)
KOCHI: The Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) on Friday welcomed the Kerala governments allocation of five acres of land to set up a permanent venue for the Kochi-Muziris Biennale in recognition of its impact in popularising art. This is in addition to sanctioning of a working fund of Rs 2 crore for the Biennale for the 2017-18 fiscal year. Finance Minister Dr Thomas Isaac in his budget speech announced that the state government will acquire around five acres of land, including the current Biennale venues, Aspinwall House and the Cabral Yard in Fort Kochi, to create a permanent venue for the art event.
KBF president Bose Krishnamachari said he was heartened by the governments confidence in the project, noting that Kerala is the only state to recognise the soft power of art and culture. Our prime aim is to make art and culture a part of our education system and we have been rolling out a number of initiatives to achieve it. The latest Budget allocation shows the confidence the state has in us and that is a great recognition, he said. The budgetary provision is in line with Chief Minister Mr Pinayari Vijayans assurance at the inaugural ceremony of KMB 2016 in December that efforts were being made by his government to develop the Kochi event along the lines of the Venice Biennale. KBF secretary Riyas Komu said the move also reflects the perseverance of all stakeholders in proving to the government as well as the public that the Biennale is a celebration of art and culture that is worth promoting.
In the current scenario of widespread funding cuts for such programmes, the Kerala government is setting an example by investing back into art and culture, he said. This is now 'People's Biennale'. A permanent venue had always been a dream; it will now become a reality. We also welcome the governments commendable move to encourage artists by promising grants," he said. The state government had earlier allocated Rs 7.5 crore in the budget for the ongoing KMB, which is witnessing participation of 97 artists from over 31 countries. The third edition of the Biennale, which runs for 108 days, will end on March 29.
Guwahati: Terming the BJP-led Assam government as "courage-less", former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Friday demanded assurance from the Centre that the Naga Peace Accord will not affect the state.
"Has the Sarbananda Sonowal government informed the Centre that there has been widespread resentment against privatisation of oilfields? Have they told that it will go against the interest of the people? They simply do not have the courage," Gogoi said at a press conference at Assam Assembly complex.
He alleged that the proposed amendment to Citizenship Act will go against the people of the state as it will allow Bangladeshi immigrants to settle in Assam.
On the agreement signed with militants of Nagaland, Gogoi said, "The Naga Peace Accord has been kept under the wrap for so long. Why? Not make it public. It must be confined to constitutional boundary of Nagaland. Let Assam government make it clear and we want assurance from Modi government."
Nagaland peace accord was signed in August 2015 by the Government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) to end insurgency in Nagaland.
Talking about the law and order situation of Assam, Gogoi alleged it has deteriorated since the BJP-led coalition came to power in the state.
"When Sarbananda Sonowal became Chief Minister, he announced he would take minimum security and remain a common man. Now he has taken Z Plus security. Why? What does this mean?" the veteran Congress leader quizzed.
Gogoi also alleged that the BJP government working for big capitalists and privatisation at the expense of the poor people.
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Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan
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This criminal act is another proof that the Armenophobia policy. Tatoyan
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Varanasi: Known to be outspoken, Union Minister and senior BJP leader Uma Bharti on Friday launched a no holds barred attack on Rahul Gandhi for criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She challenged him to visit Varanasis river banks to see the clean-up work done by her government and told NDTV that either he can jump into the Ganga or I will."
She also mocked him over the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections and said that he would run away to Thailand after seeing the results.
"I urge Rahul Gandhi not to run away to Thailand as he is likely to once the assembly election results are out. He should come with me to the Ganga and if work to clean it has not started, either he can jump into the Ganga or I will," she told NDTV.
She also accused the Akhilesh Yadav government of posing hurdles to her mission to clean the river Ganga and adviced Rahul Gandhi to call off the alliance with Congress.
On Thursday, Rahul had hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and had accused him of making "conditional promises and deals" even with "Ganga maa".
"Modi told Maa Ganga that first make him the Prime Minister and then only he will carry out its cleaning works," said Gandhi while seeking votes for local party MLA Ajai Rai from Pindara assembly seat under Banaras Lok Sabha constituency.
While attacking Modi for allegedly making "conditional promises" to the people of Uttar Pradesh, Gandhi promised in the same vein if Congress-SP alliance forms government in UP it "will give Rs 20 lakh to youths for starting their own business."
"Modi strikes relationships with the Ganga maa saying he he is beta of Banaras and that Maa Ganga called him to Varanasi," said Rahul and asked, "Does Maa Ganga had only one son and that too from Gujarat??
"Ganga belongs to everyone and not to a single person." Referring to a slew of PM's alleged promises for Varanasi, Rahul said "Modi had promised Metro rail, did people get it?"
"Modi talked of making Benaras a Kyoto city, give each house clean drinking water, fly luxury planes over Ganga and to set up a Bhojpuri film city here," said Rahul asking if the city got any of these things till now despite lapse of over three years since he became the PM.
Exuding confidence that Congress-SP alliance would win the UP assembly elections, Gandhi said the polling in the last five phases has shown that voters favoured Congress-SP alliance while "Modi ji lost his smiles had looked sad as if he has already lost the polls."
Back in 1954, the Justice Munir Commission report into the anti-Ahmadi violence in Punjab complained that no two Pakistani clerics could agree on the definition of a Muslim. Today, President Donald Trump might be finding himself similarly frustrated. His White House staff cannot agree on how to describe violent jihadists. Last week, in his first speech to his staff, the Presidents national security adviser, Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, said the term radical Islamic terrorism wasnt helpful for US goals. His remark suggests he agrees with the approach taken by Trumps predecessor. When Barack Obama was in office, the grieving mother of a US soldier asked why the White House would not use the term Islamic terrorist. ...Al Qaeda and (Islamic State)... they have perverted and distorted and tried to claim the mantle of Islam forbarbarism and death, Obama said. ...If you had an organisation that was going around killing and blowing people up and said, Were on the vanguard of Christianity. As a Christian, Im not going to let them claim my religion and say, youre killing for Christ. I would say, thats ridiculous.
In the aftermath of the 2015 Charlie Hebdo attack in Paris, French President Francois Hollande took a similar line. Its a position that has sparked some debate amongst jihadists. Some have joked on social media platforms about being declared a non-Muslim or being takfired as one put it by Western politicians. After all, they ask, how can men such as Gen. McMaster, President Obama or President Hollande presume they have the credentials to declare who is and who isnt a Muslim? But its not just jihadists who reject the McMaster/Obama/Hollande line. Dr Sebastian Gorka, the deputy assistant to President Trump, has for some years lectured the US military on jihadism. Its about people who are fighting for the soul of Islam not a war with Islam, but a war inside Islam,
Gorka is not arguing that violent jihadism is the only valid interpretation of the religion. On the contrary, other Muslims, he says, are struggling for their own interpretations to prevail. There are people every day risking their lives on their blog sites, in North Africa, in the Middle East pushing back on this, saying, Im a Muslim, but I dont think an infidel needs to be killed. Violent jihadists, on Gorkas account, are not non-Muslim or even bad Muslims. Rather they are valid Muslims who believe in the use of violence. Others in the new White House team have similar views. President Trumps most trusted adviser, chief strategist Steve Bannon, has been speaking about these issues for some years. In a speech given in Rome in 2014 he spoke of a coming clash between Christianity and Islam. The extent to which religion can be used to justify jihadist attacks has also been debated in the UK. In 2014, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair complained that some Western commentators went to extraordinary lengths in their attempts to deny that these conflicts were about Islam, arguing instead that local or historic factors were more important.
It was odd, he said, to deny that Islam was the central element of the various struggles. Blairs successor David Cameron made similar remarks. In the aftermath of the 7/7 attacks on Londons transport system, before he was Prime Minister, Cameron said that: the Muslims in this country doesnt support what is happening. But later he modified that position arguing that some Muslims agree with jihadists. Simply denying any connection between Islam and the extremists doesnt work, he said. So what of the new American President? He may just have appointed McMaster as his national security adviser, but there is little doubt that Trumps views are more in line with those of Gorka and Bannon. In his remarks to the Conservative Political Action Conference last week, Mr Trump said, We are going to keep radical Islamic terrorists... out of our country.
By arrangement with Dawn
The discourse during the run-up to the state Assembly elections in Manipur has confined itself to critical local issues like corruption, the ongoing four-month-long economic blockade by a frontline Naga group, fears on whether a deal with Naga rebels could see the state losing some of its Naga-inhabited territory, development or the lack of it, and, of course, insurgency and law and order. But what is brand new for Manipurs politics is that two national parties the Congress and the BJP are battling it out, the only two parties contesting all the 60 seats. The other major player is the Naga Peoples Front (NPF), a BJP ally which is the dominant ruling coalition partner in adjoining Nagaland. The NPF had contested 12 seats in Manipur in 2002 and had won four. This time, the NPF has put up candidates in 15 seats. Adding interest to the contest is Manipurs iron lady and rights activist Irom Sharmila and her party, the Peoples Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA), which is engaged in a symbolic fight, contesting only three seats. Ms Sharmila, who had ended a 16-year-long fast against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, is pitted against veteran Congress leader and chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh in Thoubal constituency. There are a host of other regional and Left parties in the fray.
The Congress in the state, led by its mascot Ibobi Singh, had a near free run for the past 15 years in a row, having won three elections in the absence of a strong or determined Opposition. This is for the first time in 15 years that the Congress is faced with a real Opposition that is threatening to unseat the party. For the BJP, the Manipur elections are extremely important because if it manages a win, it would add one more north-eastern state in its kitty after the decisive victory in Assam in April last year. Arunachal Pradesh too has a BJP government now, but that has not come about after an electoral verdict. In Nagaland too, the BJP has a presence in the state government by way of the party being a part of the ruling NPF-led coalition. A victory for the BJP in Manipur will help the party establish its claim as a pan-Indian entity that is there to stay, and drive home the message that it is a party that appeals to Indians across the length and breadth of the diverse nation. Similarly, for the Congress, retaining Manipur is vital to rejuvenate the party whose electoral fortunes have not been on the high for long now. It is not surprising, therefore, to see leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, Union home minister Rajnath Singh and other bigwigs campaigning in Manipur, braving security threats from insurgents.
As the BJP geared up its efforts to wrest Manipur, and vested the responsibility on master strategist Himanta Biswa Sarma, Assam Cabinet minister and convenor of the BJP-led North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), chief minister Ibobi Singh came up with a masterstroke. In early December last year, the state government created seven new districts, six of which were carved out from the existing hill districts inhabited by Nagas, Kukis and other ethnic groups. The Congress must have done this with two objectives in mind enlist the support of the tribes people in the new districts as elevating these areas to districts would bring them some development and additional infrastructure, besides jobs, and to possibly alter the district-wise demographic balance. The Nagas got highly agitated by this move. Manipurs apex Naga body, the United Naga Council (UNC) had already launched an economic blockade on November 1, 2016 after the Manipur government announced plans to grant full-fledged district status to two subdivisions in the hill areas. When the Ibobi government went a step further and created seven new districts, the UNC intensified the blockade that is still on.
The genesis of this lies in the deep divide between the people in the hills and the Imphal Valley dominated by the Meiteis. The valley has 40 Assembly seats although it comprises only 11 per cent of Manipurs total geographical area. The hills with an area of 89 per cent have only 20 seats. Therefore, a section of Nagas in both Nagaland and Manipur has been hoping to break away from Manipur and perhaps merge with adjoining Nagaland. Politics, not surprisingly, has come into play with the Congress and Mr Ibobi Singh himself saying Manipur could be dismembered if the BJP comes to power because the NDA government at the Centre, he alleges, has entered into a secret pact with the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM). That is the reason why Rahul Gandhi too demanded in his Manipur campaign tour that New Delhi should make the August 2015 framework agreement with the NSCN(I-M) public. This forced Mr Modi to clarify in Imphal that Manipurs territorial integrity is under no threat and is not linked to a possible deal with the NSCN(I-M).
Aside from intricate issues as this, the Congress is facing a strong anti-incumbency wave. Charges of nepotism and favouritism by the Ibobi Singh government in matters of recruitment to state government jobs are flying thick and fast. Questions are also being raised on the degree of development that the Congress could usher in during the past decade and a half. Most importantly, the issue of fake encounter deaths (a case is pending at the Supreme Court on 1,528 such deaths in Manipur during Congress rule) will also weigh heavily on the mind of voters. The Congress has certainly conceded some ground to the BJP over all these, but the fact also remains that the BJPs organisational base in Manipur is not really strong so far. Moreover, the party has been forced to bear in mind that several of its candidates have been senior leaders in the Manipur Congress until recently. The BJPs only claim to success in the state in recent times was when it won 12 of the 30-odd seats in the Imphal municipal body. The Modi magic will be subject to scrutiny on Saturday when 38 seats go to the polls in the first phase. The second and last phase of voting on March 8 will determine whether the lotus blooms in Manipur or whether Mr Ibobi Singh is going to be fourth time lucky.
Masking appears to be the favourite term of pessimists who feel demonetisation had an adverse effect on growth and are sceptical of GDP figures claiming a surprising seven per cent growth rate for October-December. These analysts/economists had predicted 6-6.5 per cent growth. It is possible the December quarter is riding high on the October-November festive season sales, or even that third quarter GDP figures were revised downwards too drastically. The government, however, is thrilled that the pessimists were proved wrong, with finance minister Arun Jaitley hitting out at those who predicted dire consequences after demonetisation. The ground reality is that those with high cash transactions faced a problem that could have been partly offset by a rise in digital transactions and various incentives by the government to encourage use of digital payment methods.
The opening of bank accounts, particularly in rural areas through the Jan Dhan Yojana last year, helped to some extent to cushion the blow. The success of the digital mode is evident in the soaring revenues of one payment firm and many others who were suddenly in demand. The reality, however, is that labourers in rural and urban areas who are paid cash daily faced huge problems as employers had no cash to settle their dues. Labourers in rural areas, specially in textile and other hubs, mainly in South India, had to go back to their villages as their employers didnt have cash to pay them. Its not known how many have returned. Perhaps the GDP statistics didnt take these factors into account. What is intriguing is the silence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after Mr Jaitley lambasted the critics of demonetisation for painting a picture of factories closing down etc. One would have thought he would have harped on the suit-boot sarkar being uncaring of the distress to rural labourers after demonetisation.
Its true, agriculture didnt suffer much as farmers had already started sowing before the November 8 withdrawal of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes that saw the sucking out of nearly 80 per cent of the currency in circulation. But there are also stories of growers selling vegetables and produce at throwaway prices as traders didnt have cash to pay them. It would be prudent for the government to give details of all sections of the economic spectrum to get a truer picture. We still dont know how much currency has actually come back into the system, as both the Reserve Bank and the government have remained silent on this. The GDP figures for the January-March quarter may be more revealing of the true impact of demonetisation as the effects of the cash crunch could probably see some overhang. This would then indicate if the third quarter GDP figure was fact or fiction.
In the backdrop of the recent disturbances at Delhi University, in which the RSS-affiliated student body ABVP disrupted an academic seminar in the name of nationalism, President Pranab Mukherjee observed in Kochi on Thursday that there should be no room in India for the intolerant Indian... While delivering a lecture, the President said universities must engage in reasoned discussion and debate. But who is listening? Defence minister Manohar Parrikar, answering journalists questions, said he was for the freedom of expression within the legal framework, although he clarified that he was only making a general observation unrelated to the current controversy. Here is someone who has taken oath of office on the Constitution which guarantees every Indian freedom of expression, like it offers freedom to practise ones faith, but the minister is fighting shy of saying he will protect free expression, come what may.
Will he protect freedom to practise ones faith, or the freedom not to be part of any faith? We hope Indians never have to pass such a test. Finance minister Arun Jaitley rushed to the defence of the ABVP, his former organisation, in a less circuitous manner. He said it was only in India that nationalism was a bad word. Thats not true. Its the version of nationalism propagated by the ruling party more properly called majority-religion chauvinism which raises doubts as it questions the notion of national unity (of people of all faiths, regions, language groups and classes) that flowed out of the freedom movement, in which the RSS forgot to participate.
Chickens lay eggs and
Eggs breed chickens
We call it the vicious circle.
Get really vicious, smash the egg
Defy the karma start anew
Nothing in nature waits for you!
From The Jig Jig Proverbs
by Bachchoo
The elite of Britain are being silly and ask forgiveness for sounding like Donald Trump. I meant by that not the political elite but the elite-in-waiting of the British universities. First there was the no-platforming of speakers with whom some undergraduates disagreed. They banned the founding modern feminist Germaine Greer from speaking at a university because she had said that men who have their penises chopped off and undergo hormone treatment dont become women any more than humans who have their ears floppily extended become cocker spaniels. And now Pembroke College at Cambridge is changing its weekly menu for students who have to eat in Hall a compulsory part of keeping terms. One or two undergraduates have spent their time protesting about microaggressions and cultural misrepresentation! They were served a dish with mango and beef and the Pembroke chefs called it Jamaican stew. An undergraduate who identified him or herself as half-Jamaican posted something on the Internet saying show me where in the Caribbean they mix meat and fruit? Another undergraduate complained about a dish of cauliflower, tofu and date tagine with Tunisian rice and coriander yogurt. This complainant said: Sorry, but what is this, we dont eat these things in Tunisia.
The bursar of the college said s/he was taking the complaints seriously. I have no idea what the bursar means. Will the kitchens be instructed to refrain from serving up innovative multicultural dishes, which to me sound delicious and a far cry from what the Pembroke College kitchens dished out in Hall when I was an undergraduate there in the mid-1960s. I went straight from Poona on a Tata scholarship to Pembroke College, Cambridge, knew about eating in Hall a compulsory ritual, and inescapable anyway, as I didnt have any money to eat out or even buy a sustaining sausage. The college served a meat and two veg meal every evening which alternated between beef, pork, chicken, lamb, all minimally roasted or cooked; cabbage and some form of potato, roasted or boiled. That was it! No tagine or mango stewed with anything, my dear boys and girls! Hall was entertaining with the likes of Clive James holding forth on any and everything in politics, literature and pop and with the boys from public schools perpetuating their childish habit of throwing bread buns at each other across the Hall.
The food was dull, the lessons in the British differentiations of class and taste instructive. So what are these undergraduates complaining about? In our time we demonstrated against American involvement in Vietnam. We protested against discrimination against ethnic minorities in this, that and the other institutions of Britain. I can remember a number of protests and demonstrations when we faced and even fought, justifiably or not, the British police. I cant recollect any protest against the labelling of food on the Pembroke College kitchens menu. This is new. This is token and sissy politics. What is the person, protesting through a qualification of being half-Jamaican, saying? Should the dish, some attempt by the chefs to be multicultural, be banned or renamed? Will the banning or the renaming be a heroic revolutionary triumph? Was the complainant protesting against the amalgam of European and Jamaican cuisine as an act of miscegenation? Does this stricture against the cross-fertilisation of British and non-British cuisine apply to the promulgation of children? Should s/he have a word with his/her mixed parentage about it? Does s/he believe, out of ethnic cultural purity, in not existing?
Food (leave aside the more profound subject of the mixing of races) has traditionally in all cultures been cross-bred, transferred from continent to continent and amalgamated in very many ways into universal cuisine. It is common knowledge that Marco Polo brought pasta to Italy from China or that, chillies and potatoes came to India from America via the Portuguese and the British colonialists. Generations of Indians have cooked their signature dishes using chillies and aloo this and aloo that! Its time the undergraduates and bursar of Pembroke digested the fact that bastardisation is the essence of cuisines worldwide. My mother would feed us French toast something the French have never heard of and then there was on occasion a dish called Country Captain, which was clearly a jumble of ingredients that hadnt been thrown together before. On a trip to lecture at Bologna University I was taken by my professorial hosts to dinner at their favourite restaurant. When asked what Id like I naively said: I suppose that in Bologna one should eat spaghetti Bolognese.
The company didnt know what that was and asked the maitre if he did. He looked puzzled. They asked me to describe the dish and I did. They identified it immediately saying Ah! Raggu! I did point out that all over the world, in every Italian restaurant abroad, and no doubt even at Pembroke, spaghetti with meat sauce is known as Bolognese. The idea of cultural miscegenation of food is at best the product of idle minds and at worst an indication that a phalanx of the present university generation have lost any sense of what real political action means and are desperately in search of phrases to ban. Its humourless, futile and as any historian of food will tell you, ignorant. As is the concept of cultural expropriation another idle Western undergraduate shibboleth. Yes, even I think that Idi Amin in a kilt is an absurdity, but the undergrads who protested against a white musician who wore his hair in dreadlocks were guilty of the sin they condemned. No less than Bob Marleys granddaughter told me that she was journeying to Varanasi to trace the origin of the hairstyle among the ancient sadhus of India.
The case is scheduled to be argued on March 28, but the school board is seeking a delay.
Apple, IBM and Microsoft are among 53 companies urging the Supreme Court to rule that a transgender teenager has the right to use the boys' bathroom at his Virginia high school.
The businesses signed onto a brief filed Thursday in high school senior Gavin Grimm's lawsuit against the Gloucester (GLAH'-stur) County school board.
Grimm says he wants to use the bathroom that matches his chosen gender. He is challenging the board's policy that prohibits him from using the boys' bathroom.
Airbnb, eBay, PayPal, Tumblr and Williams-Sonoma also are part of the brief that argues that "transgender individuals deserve the same treatment and protections" as everyone else.
The case is scheduled to be argued on March 28, but the school board is seeking a delay.
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Samsung has reportedly begun mass production of Galaxy S8 at its production facility in Vietnam with over 10 million units set for initial production volume.
According to the report by a Korean website, Samsung will be producing 4.7 million units of Galaxy S8 smartphone in March and 7.8 million in April.
Samsung will be releasing two models of its next flagshipGalaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus. At a press conference held in Barcelona this week, the firm confirmed to unveil Galaxy S8 on March 29, which is speculated to be held in New York.
Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus could carry a price tag of $950 (approx. Rs 64,000) and $1050 (approx. Rs 70,000) respectively.
The two smartphones are rumoured to be launched in three colour variants, including Black, Gold, and Orchid Gray.
Also read: Samsung Galaxy S8 rumour round-up: Specs, price, release date
Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.
Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi, left, shakes hands with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, prior to their meeting at the presidential palace in Carthage, near Tunis, Tunisia. (Photo: AP)
Tunis: German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced a new agreement with Tunisia on tackling illegal migration during a visit on Friday, following tensions over the case of the Tunisian suspect in the Berlin market attack.
Merkel, on a two-day trip to North Africa that also included a stop in Egypt, said Germany and Tunisia had agreed on faster repatriations for rejected asylum seekers and job training for Tunisians.
The German leader, who faces elections in September, is under pressure to reduce the number of asylum seekers coming to her country, which has taken in more than one million migrants since 2015.
Merkel, who was also due to address Tunisia's parliament, has urged the North African states to step up border controls and speed up procedures to repatriate migrants whose asylum applications are turned down.
Germany has said that Tunisian bureaucratic delays meant it could not expel Anis Amri, the suspect in the truck rampage at a Berlin Christmas market that killed 12 people, even though his asylum application had been rejected six months earlier.
Merkel said that the two countries had agreed that questions from Germany on the identities of Tunisian asylum seekers will be answered within 30 days.
"We will also help Tunisia to set up a registration system. Replacement passports are then meant to be issued within one week," she said at a joint news conference with Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi.
This agreement "will satisfy Tunisia and will satisfy Germany," Essebsi said, adding that it concerned about 1,500 Tunisians whose residency requests have been refused by Germany.
"Measures will be taken in the Tunisian consulates in Germany to help in their identification," Essebsi said. Her talks also covered ways to respond to years of instability exploited by people smugglers in neighbouring Libya.
"We know the political situation in Libya is difficult," she said, welcoming Tunisia's efforts to help resolve the turmoil.
"No-one is more interested in political stability in Libya than its neighbours, but I'll say, because of the migration issue, it's also important for us Europeans."
The migrant issue had already been contentious in Germany where sexual assaults by large groups of mostly North African men on New Year's Eve 2015-16 against women in Cologne provoked outrage.
Merkel's interior minister floated an idea for North African countries to build holding centres for returned migrants but it was rejected by Merkel's centre-left coalition partners and rights groups.
The visit is also a chance for Merkel to pledge support for a country often hailed as a rare success story of the Arab Spring uprisings that shook the region and toppled autocrats including longtime Tunisian dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali
Since its 2011 revolution, Tunisia has passed a new constitution and held free parliamentary and presidential elections.
But the nation faces high unemployment, social tensions and the threat from jihadists who have killed dozens of soldiers and police as well as civilians including 59 foreign tourists.
Speaking in Tunis, Merkel announced 250 million euros ($264 million) in development aid.
"The funds are for rural development, small and medium enterprises, but mainly for youths... who especially need job training and employment opportunities," she said.
Her trip is part of a larger diplomatic push by the German leader, who last year visited Mali, Niger and Ethiopia.
She had also planned a trip to Algeria last week, but it was called off after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika fell ill.
Germany, which this year holds the G20 presidency, has also announced investment partnerships in Africa with the long-term goals of reducing poverty and deterring people from leaving.
Merkel was joined on her trip by a business delegation that could bring much-needed investments.
California: There is a lot that defies the norms when it comes to the two roommates in California -- Ben Stern and Lea Heitfeld. There is a sizable generation gap, the gender divide and mainly the fact that one of them is a Holocaust survivor and the other one is a granddaughter of Nazis.
According to a report by the Washington Post, 95-year-old Stern lived in ghettos and concentration camps, but never lost faith in human kindness. He and his family lost their home in Poland to the Nazis. 31-year-old Heitfeld is a German graduate student at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, whose grandparents were active members of the Nazi Party.
Unconventionally, she has decided to pursue a masters degree in Jewish studies and is also very keen on learning about Jewish culture.
Stern said sharing his house, with a kin of the very people who forced him from his childhood home, felt like an act of justice. "It was the right thing to do. I'm doing the opposite of what they did", he said.
Heitfeld gives company to Stern, whose wife of more than 70 years was recently admitted to nursing home because of her worsening dementia. The pair watch TV together, eat dinner together on most nights and enjoy snacking on herring salad and crackers before meals. They share similar interests and have conversations about history and current events.
HHK rep.: We are ready to cooperate with HAK (video)
The Republicans in Armenia do not see a great contradiction between the word security [used in their campaign slogan] and the notion peace envisioned by the electoral alliance formed by Armenian National Congress (HAK) and Peoples Party of Armenia (HZhK). If there's no peace, there's no security. Everything else - progress, development and democracy -depends on them, says Vahram Baghdasaryan, who heads the parliamentary group of the Republican Party of Armenia (HHK). He is not against normalizing relations with Azerbaijan but only after solving the issue of self-determination of the Artsakh people. The HHK is going to the elections with the slogan Security and Progress" which reflects the obvious concern given the background of the April War, and the staggering economic situation in the country. Should the HAK want to go with us under the same motto, we are ready to discuss possible cooperation, Mr Baghdasaryan says. The HAK-HZhK alliance has chosen Peace, Reconciliation and Good Neighborliness as its slogan in the election campaign. The ARF-Dashnaktsutyun sees a kind of defeatism in the slogan. Azerbaijan does not intend to compromise anything, says Dashnaks. How is the HAK going to achieve peace under these circumstances? The easiest way [to end the war] is to surrender [to the enemy]. Let us do it and say that it is what Azerbaijan longs for. It wants us to satisfy its whims, says Armen Rustamyan, Head of the ARF-Dashnaktsutyun parliamentary faction. Rustamyan has got the impression that HAK Leader Levon Ter-Petrosyan has not recognized the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic until now. He [Ter-Petrosyan] should call on the head of Azerbaijan to recognize the independence of Artsakh. Only after it can he speak about compromises. Saying the independence of Artsakh, Armen Rustamyan means the territory of Karabakh during the proclamation of independence, including Shahumyan region. Plus Sochi and Istanbul Why not? HAK member Aram Manukyan hints back at the Dashnak lawmaker. Dashnaktsutyun proposes a toast expressing its wishes. Mr Manukyan says they want their political platform for the April 2 parliamentary election to be approved by people, not by the Dashnaks. We recognize the right to self-determination of the Karabakh people. Armenia can take steps to get other countries to recognize that right. If you can be strong enough to do it, please act.
Washington: An Indian-American has been sentenced to nine years in prison for his role in a sophisticated and large-scale identity theft and credit card fraud resulting in a loss of USD 25 million.
Amit Chaudhry, 44, who was sentenced on Thursday by a US court in Virginia, has also been ordered to pay USD 4.1 million in restitution, and had pleaded guilty to the charges in September 2016, federal prosecutors said.
An Indian national, who became a US citizen in 2011, court documents said, was part of a large, international wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy that involved processing stolen credit card numbers and laundering the proceeds through hundreds of bank accounts.
Some of these bank accounts were set up in the name of shell companies, which did no real business. This fraud and money laundering conspiracy was carried out in part by teams of individuals working together in India, the US, Europe and elsewhere, the prosecutors said.
According to court documents, while some members of this group obtained the personal identifying information of real people; other members would obtain the credit card information from actual credit card customers, and yet others would be responsible for electronically processing the stolen credit card transactions.
Chaudhry helped launder the proceeds of the credit card fraud and assisting co-conspirators who would come to the US from India to open bank accounts used to hold and receive fraud proceeds.
There were more than 1,000 victims of this fraud, which used various sophisticated means to conceal the identities of the conspirators.
According to court documents, from 2001 to 2016, Chaudhry and others conspired to commit visa fraud by submitting false and fraudulent H-1B visa applications by and through various entities that the Chaudhry and others owned and controlled, including Networkxchange, Technologyxchange, Secure Networks, and the Knowledge Center.
The conspiracy involved the submission of false and fraudulent applications and supporting documentation to the US Department of Labour (DOL) and US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
"Some of these documents were signed using the name John King, a journalist who is CNN's chief national correspondent," federal prosecutors said.
Houston: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has sent a personal message to 24-year-old Ian Grillot, who was injured while trying to intervene during a shooting in which an Indian techie was killed in Kansas, and wished him a speedy recovery.
The Indian Consul-General in Houston, Anupam Ray, met Grillot and his family on Thursday at the University of Kansas Hospital and handed over the message from Swaraj.
"India salutes the heroism of Ian Grillot! Best wishes for speedy recovery," Ray wished Grillot on behalf of the minister and the people of India, KSHB-TV reported.
Grillot was released from the hospital on Tuesday. Ray also said that Sushma Swaraj has 7.3 million followers, who all conveyed their best wishes.
"We will stand with you, whatever you need," he said. Responding to this Grillot said, "I look forward to being able to go meet everybody."
Grillot and his family are invited to India as soon as he is able to travel, according to a news release from the University of Kansas Health System.
Grillot was shot in hand last week when 51-year-old American navy veteran Adam Purinton, prior to opening fire, uttered racial slurs and yelled, "get out of my country" at the two Indian victims.
Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla, 32, was killed while another Indian man and his colleague Alok Madasani were critically injured.
In a video from his hospital bed, Grillot had said: "I was just doing what anyone should have done for another human being. It's not about where he was from or his ethnicity."
Washington: Pakistan must crack down on terror groups like the LeT or hand over terrorists to international tribunals for trials so that justice is served, an influential US lawmaker has said.
"Pakistan needs to crack down on groups like the LeT, close down those campuses as well. Pakistan needs to understand that if they are not going to bring perpetrators of the terrorist attacks to justice they should turn them over to The Hague so that they can be tried in international tribunals and justice can be served," Congressman Ed Royce said on Thursday.
The Chairman of powerful House Foreign Relations Committee was speaking at an event hosted by Vivekananda International Foundation, New Delhi-based think-tank, at the US Capitol in Washington.
He also said that Pakistan needs to be serious about closing down 600 Deobandi madrassas in the country, underlining that there is a prevailing sentiment in the Congress and Trump administration that such schools are breeding ground for terrorists.
"I think, the sentiments are Pakistan needs to be serious about closing down the Deobandi schools, there are about 600 of them as they churn out people who do not know what to do except to really either argue for or carry out jihad," he said.
A founding member of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, Royce said the Congress and the new Administration is focused on some new issues.
"One is that concept of USD 500 billion in trade between India and the US. That is where we are trying to push the policies...So we need an effective bilateral trade agreement treaty with India. We are pushing to liberalise trade further," Royce said.
"At the same time, we are delighted that among the Indian-American population that we have in the United States, one-half of them have postgraduate degrees. When we think about what that pertains...we know that there is a very bright future for Indian-Americans," he said.
India and the US, he said, should form their policies on the "core values of rule of law, democracy, freedom of expression and freedom of belief".
"We do not always hit the mark in the US. Those are our goals. India does not always hit the mark. But those are Indias goals," he said. India, he said, is now the ninth largest trading partner of the US.
The counter-terrorism co-operation has also increased over the past several years and the defence ties have strengthened in the last one decade, he said.
22-year-old Miguel Alvarez-Flores and 18-year-old Diego Hernandez-Rivera appeared in court Wednesday on charges of aggravated kidnapping and murder. (Photo: AP)
Houston: Authorities say two MS-13 gang members from El Salvador who had a Satanic shrine in their Houston apartment are suspects in the killing of one teenager and the kidnapping of another. The members are also accused of gangraping one of their victims.
22-year-old Miguel Alvarez-Flores and 18-year-old Diego Hernandez-Rivera appeared in court Wednesday on charges of aggravated kidnapping and murder.
Prosecutors say a 14-year-old girl was kidnapped after leaving school early last month and taken to the apartment the men shared with others.
Authorities say she was held against her will for two weeks, given drugs and sexually assaulted by some of the men. The gang members also allegedly forcibly gave the teen a tattoo of a Satanic figure, prosecutors said, according to CBS affiliate KHOU.
Its not clear what led investigators to the kidnapped teen, the station reports. Alvarez-Flores and Hernandez-Rivera were reportedly arrested Monday at the aparment after a four-hour SWAT standoff.
The teen told investigators that a second girl also was held at the apartment who lashed out by destroying the makeshift shrine to a Satanic saint. A gang member who went by the name Diabolical took offense and made a peace offering of a cigarette to appease the saint.
But he then told the group, the beast did not want a material offering, it wanted a soul, a prosecutor said in court.
On Feb. 16, prosecutors say Diabolical and another gang member drove the second girl to a southwest Houston neighborhood where she was shot once my each man, in the head and chest and close range. The girls body was found dumped on the side of a Houston road two weeks ago by a man driving his children to school, reports KHOU.
The slaying victim remains unidentified. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has developed a composite image of how she would have appeared and Houston police released a photograph of three rings found with her body. Theyre asking anyone who may be able to help identify her come forward.
KHOU reports Alvarez-Flores and Hernandez-Rivera are undocumented immigrants from El Salvador. Bond was set at $300,000 for each, but federal immigration officials have reportedly placed a detainer on them.
Ian Grillot was released from the hospital, The University of Kansas Health System said in a statement. (Photo: Facebook)
Kansas City: A Kansas man who survived an apparently racially motivated shooting at a suburban Kansas City restaurant and bar is out of the hospital and has already visited the scene of the attack.
Ian Grillot, 24, was released from the hospital on Tuesday, The University of Kansas Health System said in a statement on Thursday. Grillot was one of three men shot February 22 at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas. One of the men, Srinivas Kuchibhotla, was killed, and his friend, Alok Madasani, was wounded.
Both Kuchibhotla and Madasani were natives of India working as engineers for GPS-maker Garmin in Olathe.
A bullet hit Grillot in the hand and entered his chest when he tried to stop the suspected gunman, 51-year-old Adam Purinton, of Olathe. Purinton is charged with murder and attempted murder.
Witnesses say Purinton shouted racial slurs before shooting Kuchibhotla and Madasani.
On Wednesday, Grillot went to church and then stopped at Austins for "closure," the hospital said in a statement. He returned to the hospital on Thursday for a meeting with three officials from the Consulate General of India in Houston.
The dignitaries told Grillot and his family they were grateful for his actions the night of the shooting and invited Grillot and his family to visit India when he is able to travel. Consul General Anupam Ray told Grillot that his bravery is more representative of America than the violence at Austins, the hospital said.
Online campaign 'Muslims Unite to Repair Jewish Cemetery', has raised more than USD 115,000 to repair the gravestones toppled over in Missouri. (Photo: AP)
Washington: In a show of inter-faith unity, Muslim military veterans in the US have offered to guard Jewish sites amid a spike in bomb threats against Jewish centres and vandalism targeting the community's cemeteries.
Many Muslim US military veterans have tweeted their support for Jewish people in the wake of threats and vandalism targeted at the community.
In a tweet, a former Muslim marine, Tayyib Rashid, pledged, "If your synagogue or Jewish cemetery needs someone to stand guard, count me in. Islam requires it."
Rashid, known by his Twitter handle @MuslimMarine, said in his Periscope video that, "I've seen a tremendous outpouring of love and support from all Americans, from Muslims, from my fellow Jewish Americans, from Christians, from atheists, from everyone".
His tweet has gone viral and has prompted other American Muslims to offer their support to the Jewish community. Another Muslim veteran tweeted, "I'm a Muslim Veteran in Arizona and will readily stand guard at any Jewish Synagogue or Cemetery at any hour. #WeAreOne."
"Houston area Jewish community, I spent ten years protecting our country and I will gladly protect Jewish places of worship if you need," another Muslim veteran said.
However, it was not just Muslim veterans tweeting support, other Muslims joined in too. Emmy Award-winning TV Broadcaster Momin Bhatti took to social media to pledge support in his call to protect Jewish sites.
"I'm a Muslim in #Harrisburg. If your synagogue or community centre needs someone 2 stand guard, I will stand guard for you. Islam requires it," he said.
This show of solidarity follows an online campaign called 'Muslims Unite to Repair Jewish Cemetery', which has raised more than USD 115,000 to repair the gravestones toppled over at the Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in the St. Louis suburb of University City, Missouri, Fox News reported.
Earlier this week, dozens of volunteers from various faiths helped clean up the Mount Carmel Cemetery in Philadelphia, which was vandalised over the weekend. President Donald Trump has condemned these types of attacks.
"We are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all of its very ugly forms," he had said. There has also been a surge of bomb threats against synagogues, Jewish centres and schools around the US.
This week alone, there were threats made against numerous Jewish centres and at least one school in California, Washington, Nevada and Arizona, The Huffington Post reported. The FBI and the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division are probing the threats.
The party enjoyed a 2,000-euro ($2,100) banquet at the Hotel Carmen restaurant in Bembibre, northern Spain, before promptly doing a runner. (Photo: Representational/Pixabay)
Madrid: Spanish police were on Friday hunting for more than a hundred restaurant customers who fled without paying the bill.
The party enjoyed a 2,000-euro ($2,100) banquet on Monday at the Hotel Carmen restaurant in Bembibre, northern Spain, before promptly doing a runner.
"They were dancing, then suddenly they had disappeared. In one minute, a hundred people had left," restaurant boss Antonio Rodriguez told Cadena Ser radio.
"They didn't leave in little groups -- no, they went all at once." The restaurant staff was unable to stop them, Rodriguez said. "You can't do anything when there's so many of them."
The Guardia Civil police declined to confirm media reports that the fleeing diners were from Eastern Europe, but an official from the force said they were not Spanish nationals. "We know roughly where they are," he added.
A Polish extreme-right MEP faced on Friday an inquiry over sexist remarks in the European Parliament after he said women should be paid less because they are weaker and less intelligent than men.
Janusz Korwin-Mikke, 74, has previously been sanctioned by the EU assembly for making racist comments and remarks about the Holocaust. Of course women must earn less than men, because they are weaker, they are smaller, they are less intelligent, they must earn less, thats all, Korwin-Mikke told parliament.
He previously courted controversy by claiming Nazi leader Adolf Hitler was not aware of the extermination of the Jews.
Beijing: China, on Friday, warned India against allowing the Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh, saying it would cause "serious damage" to the bilateral ties and peace in the disputed border region.
"China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai to visit Arunachal Pradesh," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told the media here.
China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of Tibet and routinely objects to any visits by top leaders, officials and diplomats to the area. China had also aired similar concerns in October 2016 when India granted permission to the Tibetan spiritual leader to visit Arunachal Pradesh at the invitation of the state government.
The visit is expected to take place this year. "China is strongly opposed to the Dalai visiting disputed areas," Geng said.
"China's position on the eastern section of China-India border dispute is consistent and clear. The Dalai clique has long been engaging in anti-China separatist activities and its record on the border question is not that good," he said.
Geng said China expressed its concern to India through formal channels. "India is fully aware of the seriousness of the Dalai issue and the sensitivity of China-India border question," he said.
"Under such a background if India invites the Dalai to visit to the mentioned territory, it will cause serious damage to peace and stability of border region and China-India relations," he said.
"We have expressed concerns to the Indian side, urged India to stick to its political commitments and abide by important consensus the two sides have reached on the boundary question, refrain from actions that might complicate the issue, not provide a platform to the Dalai clique and protect the sound and stable development of the Sino-India relations," he said.
Geng's comments came in the backdrop of an interview to the Chinese media by former Chinese Special Representative on boundary dispute Dai Bingguo in which he said the border dispute between the two nations can be resolved if India gives up claim over Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
Asked about Dai's comments, Geng said he has not seen the interview. He said China's principled position on the boundary question with India is to reach an early solution pending China-India border question is in the fundamental interest of the two countries.
"At present, the two sides have reached a roadmap to find a solution based on political parameters and guiding principles. They have also reached the important consensus that they are committed to an equitable, reasonable solution acceptable to the two sides," he said.
"China would like to work with India to work relentlessly on the negotiation process and find a solution that is equitable, reasonable to all parties," Geng said. Last year China also protested the visit of then American Ambassador to India, Richard Verma to the area.
The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488 km long Line of Actual Control (LAC). While China claims Arunachal Pradesh as Southern Tibet, India asserts that the dispute covered Aksai Chin area which was occupied by China during 1962 war.
Beijing: The border dispute between China and India can be resolved if New Delhi accepts Beijing's claim over strategically vital Tawang region in Arunachal Pradesh, China's former top diplomat has said, but Indian officials dismissed it as neither practical nor possible.
Dai Bingguo, who served as the China's boundary negotiator with India from 2003 to 2013, told Chinese media, "If the Indian side takes care of China's concerns in the eastern sector of their border, the Chinese side will respond accordingly and address India's concerns elsewhere."
Elaborating China's stand, Dai who conducted border talks with five Indian Special Representatives starting with Brajesh Mishra in 2003 said, "The disputed territory in the eastern sector of the China-India boundary, including Tawang, is inalienable from China's Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction."
He said that colonial British government which drew the "McMahon Line" accepted Beijing's claim on Tawang.
China has rejected "McMahon Line" in India's case but accepted it in settling the boundary dispute with Myanmar.
"Even British colonialists who drew the illegal McMahon Line respected China?s jurisdiction over Tawang and admitted that Tawang was part of China's Tibet," Dai told the China-India Dialogue magazine.
Dai was China's top diplomat and held the post of State Councillor in the previous Hu Jintao administration. His interview was published by the magazine in its January edition ahead of India-China Strategic Dialogue held in Beijing in February, co-chaired by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar.
Dai, regarded as a wily negotiator, did not specify where China is willing to make a concession along the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control (LAC).
He also did not specify this in the book he wrote in the Chinese language on the border talks. Indian officials, however, said Dai's proposal is neither practical nor possible for India to accept considering that Tawang is an integral part of Arunachal Pradesh and has sent representatives to Parliament in every election since 1950.
In his interview, Dai said essential nature of the China-India boundary question is the "need to correct wrongs" made by colonialists and to restore fairness and justice.
"For historical reasons, India now controls the majority of the disputed territory. The boundary question was not created by China or India, so we shouldnt be inheriting it and letting the ghosts of colonialism continue to haunt our bilateral relations," he said.
Though published afresh in Chinese media, Beijing has been making such a demand for a concession for long. Former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon who was India's Special Representative for border talks and held several rounds of talks with Dai until the present NSA Ajit Doval took over in 2014, has mentioned the issue in his recently released book "Choices: Inside the Making of Indias Foreign Policy".
Kathmandu: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, on Friday announced that Nepal would soon get exchange facilities for the demonetised high-value Indian currency notes to ease difficulties faced by Nepalese citizens.
Jaitley, who was here on a two-day visit to attend the Nepal Investment Summit, said necessary steps have been taken to facilitate the exchange of demonetised currency as per Nepal's request.
He said Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) would set a modality of exchange soon and settle the related issues.
The Indian currency is widely used in Nepal for day-to-day transactions, especially in the border areas.
Also, Nepalese citizens working in India send remittances to their families in Nepal in higher denomination notes. Nepal, a landlocked country, depends on India for trade and supplies.
According to the NRB, nearly 33.6 million Indian rupees in Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 banknotes are currently in the Nepali banking channel. However, it is not known how much such banknotes are in the hands of Nepali traders, families of migrant workers and the general public.
Earlier, Nepal's central bank had assured the RBI that it will introduce strong vetting process for those coming to exchange demonetised Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes in the country and ensure that the system is not misused.
A two-member RBI team had arrived in Kathmandu on Tuesday to hold talks on the management of demonetised Indian notes possessed by Nepali banks and financial institutions as well as the public.
The team held discussions with the officials of the NRB and representatives of commercial banks on a range of technical issues on providing exchange facility for demonetised Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 Indian currency notes in Nepal.
The Indian government on November 8 banned high-value currency notes as part of its efforts to combat corruption.
Islamabad: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Friday, vowed to eliminate terrorists without any "discrimination" and said action against them would continue until the "set targets" are achieved.
Sharif chaired a high-level security meeting at the Prime Minister's House where participants reviewed the military operation 'Radd-ul-Fasaad', which translates roughly to 'elimination of discord', and unanimously resolved to continue their action against terrorists.
"Pakistan has made immense sacrifices in its war against terrorism. We are fully determined to remain steadfast in our commitment and duty to undertake all steps for eliminating terrorists without any discrimination of geographic region, colour or sect," Sharif said.
The participants agreed to continue the offensive against terrorism and extremism in all its forms and manifestations with the fullest might of the state, and get rid of the irritants in the country's collective objective of ensuring a secured, peaceful and stable Pakistan.
They unanimously resolved that action would continue till the country achieved the "set targets" on combating terrorism. They further reiterated that national unity and support are indispensable for successful implementation of the anti-terror strategy.
The meeting was attended by Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan, Finance Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Advisor to Prime Minister Sartaj Aziz, Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, National Security Advisor Lt General (R) Nasser Khan Janjua and DG ISI Lt General Naveed Mukhtar.
Last month, Pakistan security forces killed at least 100 militants in a nationwide crackdown after an Islamic State suicide bombing at a crowded Sufi shrine in Sindh province claimed 80 lives and injured nearly 250.
The border dispute between China and India can be resolved if New Delhi accepts Beijing's claim over strategically vital Tawang region in Arunachal Pradesh, China's former top diplomat has said, but Indian officials dismissed it as neither practical nor possible.
Dai Bingguo, who served as the China's boundary negotiator with India from 2003 to 2013, told Chinese media, "If the Indian side takes care of China's concerns in the eastern sector of their border, the Chinese side will respond accordingly and address India's concerns elsewhere."
Elaborating China's stand, Dai who conducted border talks with five Indian Special Representatives starting with Brajesh Mishra in 2003 said, "The disputed territory in the eastern sector of the China-India boundary, including Tawang, is inalienable from China's Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction."
He said that colonial British government which drew the "McMahon Line" accepted Beijing's claim on Tawang.
China has rejected "McMahon Line" in India's case but accepted it in settling boundary dispute with Myanmar.
"Even British colonialists who drew the illegal McMahon Line respected Chinas jurisdiction over Tawang and admitted that Tawang was part of China's Tibet," Dai told the China-India Dialogue magazine.
Dai was China's top diplomat and held the post of State Councillor in the previous Hu Jintao administration.
His interview was published by the magazine in its January edition ahead of India-China Strategic Dialogue held here last month co-chaired by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar.
Dai, regarded as a wily negotiator, did not specify where China is willing to make a concession along the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control (LAC).
He also did not specify this in the book he wrote in Chinese language on the border talks.
Indian officials, however, said Dai's proposal is neither practical nor possible for India to accept considering that Tawang is an integral part of Arunachal Pradesh and has sent representatives to Parliament in every election since 1950.
In his interview, Dai said essential nature of the China-India boundary question is the "need to correct wrongs" made by colonialists and to restore fairness and justice.
"For historical reasons, India now controls the majority of the disputed territory. The boundary question was not created by China or India, so we shouldnt be inheriting it and letting the ghosts of colonialism continue to haunt our bilateral relations," he said.
Though published afresh in Chinese media, Beijing has been making such a demand for concession for long.
Former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon who was India's Special Representative for border talks and held several rounds of talks with Dai until the present NSA Ajit Doval took over in 2014, has mentioned the issue in his recently released book "Choices: Inside the Making of Indias Foreign Policy".
While China demanded concessions in the Western sector before the 1962 war, it changed the line to East after 1980s.
"Chinese officials began saying in the 1980s that Beijing would compromise only if India made major adjustments first, adding that once India indicated concessions in the East, China would indicate concessions in the West," Menon wrote in the book.
"In 1985, China specified that the concession it was seeking in the East was Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, something that any government of India would find difficult to accept, as this was settled area that had sent representatives to every Indian Parliament since 1950," he wrote.
"The Indian Supreme Court also held in the Berubari case in 1956 that the government could not cede sovereign territory to another government without a constitutional amendment, though it could made adjustments and rectifications in the boundaries of India," Menon wrote in the book, highlighting India's problem in accepting China's demand.
Apparently China's stand on the border settlement was different earlier lacking consistency.
Menon wrote that former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai during his visit to India in 1960 "suggested that China might recognise the McMahon line boundary in the East in return to India accepting Chinas claim in the West" to provide strategic depth for China along the Aksai Chin road between Xinjiang and Tibet, which is now China National Highway 219.
Menon said India for the first time had Chinese troops at the border only after the People's Liberation of Army (PLA) took control of Tibet.
After the occupation of Aksai Chin area in the 1962 war, China's stand reported to have changed.
While China says the border dispute covers Arunachal Pradesh which it claims as Southern Tibet, India asserts that the dispute covered Aksai Chin area.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, Rahul Gandhi and BSP supremo Mayawati will descend on Varanasi tomorrow making it their battleground ahead of the last phase of UP polls, a schedule that has put the administration on its toes.
According to the programme received by the district administration here, Modi is scheduled to arrive at his Lok Sabha constituency at about 3 PM and leave for the Kashi Vishwanath temple after resting for an hour at the guest house of the Benares Hindu University.
After offering prayers at Kashi Vishwanath, Modi will visit the Kaal Bhairav temple, situated a kilometre away.
Modi will then leave for the Kashi Vidyapith University where he is scheduled to address his first public meeting in the ancient temple city during the ongoing Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh.
In what is likely to cause jitters to the administration and badly affect traffic in the city known for its congested streets, the Prime Minister's tour will be coinciding with a joint road show by Gandhi and Yadav.
The road show was postponed twice last month and is now being held with two more days to go for campaigning in the final lap of seven-phase assembly polls.
A 10 km-long route has been finalised by the district administration in consultation with the elite Special Protection Group (SPG) which provides security cover to both Modi and Gandhi.
The road show will commence at the Kutchery and conclude at Girijaghar--a church situated in Godaulia locality--close to Kashi Vishwanath and Kaal Bhairav temples.
The SP-Congress alliance hopes to cause an upset in three of the five Assembly segments falling under Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency currently held by the BJP.
Fighting separately in 2012, the two parties had together polled more votes than the BJP in all the three seats, with the Congress finishing as the runner-up in two of these-- Varanasi South and Varanasi Cantt.
In Varanasi North, SP had finished third, behind BJP and BSP, and was followed closely by the Congress.
All the three seats--which cover almost the entire city-- are being contested by the Congress this time, while the SP is fighting the predominantly rural Rohaniya and Sevapuri.
The day will also be marked by a rally of Mayawati in Rohaniya.
The seat was wrested by the SP from the Apna Dal in a by-poll necessitated three years ago by sitting MLA Anupriya Patel's election to the Lok Sabha.
Patel is now a Union minister and her party has suffered a split.
The faction headed by her is contesting the polls in alliance with the BJP while the one led by her mother Krishna is fighting separately.
Although Modi's programme for March 5-6 is yet to reach the administration here, according to party sources, the PM is likely to return to his parliamentary constituency on Sunday evening to hold a rally.
He is likely to reach the rally's venue in a procession resembling a road show before going to the guest house of Diesel Locomotive Works where he might informally interact with nearly 2,000 distinguished citizens and, thereafter, retire for the day.
On Monday, the final day of campaigning for the seventh phase, Modi is expected to visit Ramnagar area across the Ganga, where Lal Bahadur Shastri had spent his early childhood, and garland a statue of the former Prime Minister.Then, Modi is likely to sign off with a rally in Rohaniya.
Stakes are particularly high for the BJP in the Prime Minister's Lok Sabha constituency.
Top leaders like party chief Amit Shah and vice president in-charge of UP Om Mathur have been conducting whirlwind tours of the city while Union ministers like Arun Jaitley, Smriti Irani and Piyush Goyal have been interacting with citizens from different walks of life
The debate in the US over H-1B visas has become a political and emotive issue as there is a "yawning gap" between the facts and perception, IT industry body NASSCOM has said, contending that Indian IT firms contribute immensely to the US economy and jobs creation.
"This narrative has been going on for a while now that Indian IT workers come to the US and that they take away jobs, that in general they simply displace American workers and that these are low-paid, not even necessarily high-skilled people who are actually taking away jobs from better paid and skilled American workers," NASSCOM president R Chandrashekhar told PTI.
Chandrashekhar was here this week leading a delegation of IT industry body to engage with members of the new US administration on issues like clampdown on work visas and flow of skilled manpower between the two nations.
"That's really the kind of narrative which has got built up, sort of anecdotal examples are being cited, which also are not necessarily accurate. Because it has been presented with a mix of emotive anecdotal stories, I think a counter narrative and facts have really not been recognised. If you look at the facts, then the facts actually tell you a very, very different story," he said.
He said, "The data, not just our data, but the US governments own data also tells a very, very different story."
Chandrashekhar met a number of influential American lawmakers, opinion builders, members of think-tank community and the officials from the new Trump Administration and interacted with them on the H-1B visa issues.
The visit of the NASSCOM delegation came in the wake of the ongoing debate in the US and reported moves by the Trump Administration to bring out an executive order to curtail the use of H-1B visas, widely used by Indian IT majors.
"The purpose is to put across our point of view so that a more balanced approach is enabled," he noted.
Chandrashekhar said the Indian IT industry actually contributes immensely to the US economy in terms of jobs that are created in America, both directly and indirectly.
"Close to half a million jobs have been supported in the US as of 2015. The number of jobs have also been growing at 10 per cent per year as against a two per cent growth in the rest of the job market," he said.
"The biggest contribution to jobs, of course, is what the industry provides in terms of services to US corporates, 75 per cent of the Fortune 500 companies, which enable them to be more productive, more efficient, and more globally competitive, and thereby helps them to be the job creation engine in the US," the NASSCOM president said.
The NASSCOM president argued that the services that the IT industry provides in the US actually create a lot of jobs.
"This in fact, aligns extremely well with President Trump's objective of having more jobs in the US. That's why the need to make this counter narrative well understood," he said.
"There is misperception that American workers and qualified American workers are being displaced by the recourse to a couple of anecdotal stories, whereas the reality is that there are 2.4 million jobs, which are unfilled in the US because they require STEM-qualified workers, and they simply arent available," he said.
By 2018, the projection is that the number will touch 3.4 million, and half of them will be computer and IT related areas, he observed, adding that the unemployment rate among STEM workers for computer and IT related skills is around two per cent.
"It is well known and recognised by all experts that anything under four per cent indicates a shortage. If it is around two per cent, then that indicates the extent of shortage. This myth that there are qualified people who are being deprived of a job is far from the truth," he asserted.
"The third aspect is, if you look at even the American universities, which are the source of skilled workers going forward, more than 70 per cent of the students in the STEM programmes are international students. Even if you wanted to hire from American universities, you'll still need a visa to hire those skill sets.
"These are the facts, and those are the perceptions. The gap between the two is wide, it's a yawning gap between the facts and the perceptions," said the top Indian IT leader.
In developed economies especially those experiencing slower growth, a certain level of unemployment among unskilled people, and at the same time, a shortage of skilled workers, he said is a "political dynamite".
"Because you are dealing with a shortage in one part and unemployment in another part of your workforce, and it requires extremely sagacious leadership to actually be able to formulate a more open-minded, balanced, far-sighted and pragmatic approach in dealing with this issue and differentiating between these two," he noted.
"From the perspective of an American worker who is being displaced it does not make a difference whether he is displaced by a visa-dependent company or a non-visa-dependent company or a 50-50 company or whatever.
"Why would such a provision, which is ostensibly to protect American workers be applied based on a definition which ultimately only singles out Indian companies. I think the argument is that this is not correct, and this is not even protecting American workers," Chandrashekhar said.
"I would argue that if the American workers are to be protected, then please protect them fully. Dont protect them by closing a side door and leaving the front door open," he said.
India today downplayed its participation in an upcoming meeting in Pakistan to discuss sharing of Indus river water, saying it does not amount to resumption of government-level Indo-Pak talks, which have been stalled over terrorist strikes by Pak-based groups.
Senior government officials insisted the Permanent Indus Commission, which will meet in Lahore later this month, deals with technical matters concerning implementation of the Indus Water Treaty and not with any political aspect.
India's participation comes nearly six months after New Delhi decided to suspend talks on the pact in the wake of the terror strikes by groups based across the border.
Noting that the commission has met 112 times since 1960, they said the Indian representative to the commission has accepted an invitation by his Pakistani counterpart for the meeting. No date has been set for the meeting.
"Mutually convenient dates and mutually agreeable agenda are worked out directly by the commissioners themselves and the government has no role in this regard," said a senior government official.
"The commission is not concerned with political aspects," he said, adding that "there is no shift" in the government's stance.
Declaring that "blood and water cannot flow together", Prime Minister Narendra Modi had held a meeting in September to review the treaty in the backdrop of the terror strikes, including the Uri attack.
After the meeting, officials had announced that the government has decided to suspend further talks and increase the utilisation of rivers flowing through Jammu and Kashmir to fully exercise India's rights under the pact.
The last meeting of the commission was held in May 2015. The commission, which has officials from both the countries as its members, was set up under the 57-year-old treaty to discuss and resolve issues relating to its implementation.
The commission is a body entrusted with everyday implementation of the IWT, which mandates it to meet at least once every year, alternately in India and Pakistan.
Malaysia issued an arrest warrant for a North Korean airline employee today over the assassination of the half-brother of Pyongyang's leader, after frustrated police had to release their only other suspect from the isolated nation.
Ri Jong-Chol is among eight North Koreans suspected of involvement in the dramatic killing of Kim Jong-Nam, the half-brother of the reclusive nation's leader, who was poisoned with a banned nerve agent at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Malaysia's attorney general had announced there was insufficient evidence to charge 47-year-old Ri.
The North Korean was deported Friday night, a government official, who asked not to be named, confirmed to AFP.
"He will be escorted by two North Korean officials to Beijing and from Beijing to Pyongyang," deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi told reporters earlier. "We have also blacklisted him and he cannot enter this country again."
"The police probe showed he was not working as stated in his documents but was involved in illicit activities detrimental to our security."
Earlier, as he was led out of a police station outside the capital under tight security and handed over to immigration authorities, police chief Khalid Abu Bakar said he regretted the release.
"We believe that Ri Jong Chol played a part in Kim Chol's murder but unfortunately we lack evidence to charge him," he told AFP, using the name given in the passport carried by Kim Jong-Nam.
"We are frustrated because of a lack of evidence," he said via text message from Saudi Arabia where he is on a religious pilgrimage.
However, he denied political or diplomatic pressure had been a factor in the release, saying it was purely an investigative issue.
Ri's release came two days after two women -- one Vietnamese and one Indonesian -- were charged with murdering Kim.
Seven other North Koreans are wanted in connection with the killing.
Today police issued an arrest warrant for a North Korean airline employee, Kim Uk Il, 37, in connection with the murder.
They also requested that Hyon Kwang Song, second secretary at the North Korean embassy, assist the probe.
Both are believed to be in Malaysia. Four others are thought to have fled to Pyongyang on the day of the murder.
Ri was arrested days after Kim suffered an agonising death when he was attacked as he waited to board a flight to Macau.
CCTV footage shows two women approaching the heavyset 45-year-old and apparently smearing his face with a cloth.
Airports across the country have been alerted about the possibility of UP Minister Gayatri Prajapati, accused of rape, trying to flee the country.
A Letter of Cancellation (LC) will soon be opened against him and all airports have been alerted to prevent the 49-year-old Prajapati from fleeing the country, official sources said.
A letter of cancellation is a technical term used for alerting immigration authorities about any possible move by a suspect to leave the country.
Whenever passport of the suspect comes for immigration clearance at any exit point of the country, the computer screen warns the official to not let the person leave.
The Sashtra Seema Bal (SSB), guarding Uttar Pradesh's border with Nepal, has also been alerted about the possiblity of such a move by Prajapati.
The UP Police has registered an FIR against the ruling Samajwadi Party politician, who continues to elude them, for allegedly gang-raping a woman and molesting her daughter with his aides. The FIR was filed recently following a directive of the Supreme Court after the alleged victim woman approached it.
A shuttered tailors shop, a nondescript bank, a former radio station. Often lost in the busy hum of todays Taipei, this is the time of the year when these buildings reverberate with violent echoes from 70 years ago, when Taiwans modern identity was born.
The 2/28 Incident, as it has come to be known, was an uprising that flared on February 28, 1947. It soon spread to other parts of the island, and was crushed in the massacre of up to 28,000 Taiwanese by the troops of Chiang Kai-shek, a Nationalist leader of China. The revolt was followed by four decades of martial law and divisions between Taiwanese whose roots in the island predated the Nationalists arrival in 1945 and the Chinese mainlanders who came after.
Yet it was the eventual willingness to confront these events that enabled Taiwans people to begin to heal those divisions and achieve the voice in their government that the protesters demanded seven decades ago.
In recent years, the quest to redress February 28 has been a very important development, said Su Ching-hsuan, executive secretary of the Taiwan Association for Truth and Reconciliation. Its had a major influence on Taiwans democracy movement.
And that quest continues. Last week, a committee of scholars released six new volumes of files related to the uprising, which they said reinforced the conclusion that ultimate responsibility for the massacre lay with Chiang.
The February 28 episode actually began a day before, outside the Pegasus Teahouse in Dadaocheng, old Taipeis commercial district. A widow selling cigarettes illegally was confronted by inspectors and police. After an inspector struck her head with his pistol, enraged passers-by surrounded the officers, one of whom shot and killed a bystander before the officers escaped into police protection.
Unable to pressure authorities into giving up the officer that night, hundreds of protesters gathered the next morning to march from Dadaocheng to the office of Taiwans governor, Chen Yi, to demand justice.
Taiwanese anger at the Nationalists had been building for months. Nationalist soldiers were originally greeted as liberators by Taiwanese, who had lived under Japanese colonial rule for 50 years. For a fleeting moment, there was optimism that Taiwan would enjoy greater self-determination. They wouldnt.
When the Chinese arrived, people thought their situation would improve, because many Taiwanese were of Chinese descent, but things became even worse, said Hsieh Tsai-Ming, who has been leading tours at the Taipei 228 Memorial Hall since it opened on February 28, 1997.
Chen had taken a ham-handed approach to ruling the Taiwanese, Hsieh said. By mid-1946, he had shut down all Japanese-language publications and had made Mandarin the official language of the local government, essentially shutting out many Taipei residents. Locals were aghast at the unruly behaviour of Nationalist troops, while Nationalist officials seized public and private property.
Besides that, residents simmered under corruption, mismanagement and the shifting of resources to the Chinese mainland, where the Nationalists were fighting Mao Zedongs Communists. The marchers of February 28 headed south from Dadaocheng toward the north gate of the old city wall, their numbers steadily multiplying.
Chou Ching, a local journalist, recorded the moment he arrived at the north gate. I saw a giant banner coming my way, he wrote in his 1993 book, Love and Hate: Feb. 28.
Written on it were eight big characters reading, Severely punish the killer a life for a life. A leather drum 2.5 chi (about 3 feet) across, following behind the banner, rattled eardrums behind the drum followed a trail of innumerable people joining the petition procession. There were men and women, elderly and children, but it was primarily youth.
The march took a violent turn after arriving at a Taiwan Monopoly Bureau office, Chung
Lee-ho, a novelist, wrote in his diaries, also published in 1993. Regardless of what it was, the crowd grabbed and carried everything they could from the Monopoly Bureau and burned it, even cars, bicycles and rickshaws, Chung wrote.
Shortly after the unarmed crowd reached the governors office, soldiers opened fire, killing several protesters and wounding dozens. A group fled and took over the provincial radio station, calling for an uprising against the Nationalists, an end to corruption, and a greater say in the islands economy.
Revolts broke out in all major cities. Taiwanese people were soon in charge, managing government offices and keeping order in the streets. Chen played along, biding his time until military reinforcements arrived from the Chinese mainland. Then the killing began. Streets were cleared by soldiers in jeeps with machine guns, who then rounded up Communists and anyone else considered suspect. Most were tortured and killed.
Although most victims were not Communists, a Communist presence in Taiwan was setting up an underground resistance. One party member, Xie Xuehong, had an important role in the uprising, an angle that Chinas Communist government has used over the years to lay a claim of solidarity with the people of Taiwan, which it considers the last Chinese province yet to be reclaimed from the vanquished Nationalists.
Ulterior motives
China has long commemorated February 28, usually quietly. This year, for the 70th anniversary, it took a more public approach, organising a symposium in Beijing on February 28 is a part of the Chinese peoples liberation struggle, said An Fengshan, a spokesman for Chinas Taiwan Affairs Office, at a news conference February 22. He added, For a long time, this incident has been used by certain Taiwan independence forces for ulterior motives.
During the martial law years, discussion of the February 28 uprising was banned. After martial law was lifted in 1987, some people found the confidence to speak up, with the tacit encouragement of President Lee Teng-hui, the first leader of modern Taiwan who was born there. In 1995, Lee became the first senior official to mention February 28 publicly, opening the floodgates for discussion.
Today, a small plaque where the Pegasus Teahouse once stood marks the location, most recently occupied by a tailors shop. The Monopoly Bureau office is today a bank. And the former radio station houses the Taipei 228 Memorial. In 2009, Ma Ying-jeou became the first president of Taiwan to visit the memorial to commemorate February 28, which he did in each of his eight years in office. On Tuesday last, Tsai Ing-wen made her first visit as president.
Hsiao Ming-Chih, a curator at the 228 memorial, said Mas visits were an acknowledgment of the Nationalists original sin. Seventy years on, as one of Asias freest democracies, Taiwan has made significant progress in eliminating the old Chinese-Taiwanese divisions. Most young people claim a Taiwanese identity, regardless of when their ancestors arrived. But for some, closure may never come.
Mas commemoration of the event, overseeing reparations to victims families and other displays of concern definitely had an impact, Hsiao said. But whether relatives, or people of different political stripes, find that acceptable, thats another matter.
International New York Times
Angered by his estranged wifes refusal to return to him, a man fatally stabbed her elderly parents on Friday night, police said.
Senthil Kumar (35), a native of Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu, had arrived in Bengaluru to take his wife, Sathyavathi (30), back home. His in-laws hail from Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, and have been living in Bengaluru.
Senthil and Sathyavathi, both working at a garment factory in Tirupattur, got married three years ago after dating for sometime and have a son. The marriage hit rough weather as the couple started quarrelling frequently.
Four months ago, Sathyavathi deserted Senthil and left his home to live with her parents. But he kept trying to bring her back. He often pleaded with her parents Kumar (60) and Murugamma (55) but they didnt relent.
Around 8.30 pm on Friday, Senthil arrived at his in-laws house at Konanakunte, south Bengaluru, and asked his wife to come back to him. Sathyavathi and her parents ignored his demand and asked him to get out of the house. He didnt take it lying down and picked a fight with them. He took out a knife he had carried along and pounced on all of them.
Sathyavathi raised an alarm and tried to keep him at bay. But he pinned her and stabbed her. He also knifed her parents who died later. Manjunath (34), a neighbour, heard the commotion and rushed into the house. He tried to stop Senthil but was overpowered and ended up being stabbed, too. Senthil then darted out of the house and fled.
Speaking to DH, DCP (South) Sharanappa S D said the jurisdictional Annapoorneshwari Nagar police had registered a case and were hunting for Senthil.
Satyadev IPS, dubbed into Kannada from Tamil and slated for release across the state, ran into rough weather on Friday.
Sporadic protests against dubbing prevented its screening. For decades, the Kannada film industry has resisted dubbing, but recent judicial verdicts have overruled the informal ban.
Producers of the dubbed version and the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce, a pro-dubbing film body, attributed the no-show to technical problems.
The film stars Ajith and is titled Yennai Arindhaal in Tamil. The film was not released in Bengaluru, while screening was cancelled in Hubballi and Davanagere because of protests and poor audience response. Krishne Gowda, chairman of the pro-dubbing chamber, said the film was screened successfully in 16 theatres across the state.
Twenty more theatres will start screening the movie from Sunday, he said, adding the film would hit screens in Bengaluru on March 10. G Krishnamurthy, producer of the dubbed version, said the movie had collected about Rs 4,000 for the morning show.
Some vested interests are spreading rumours that violence erupted at a few theatres. Owners of some theatres tore off the posters as they wanted to screen other movies, he said, adding he had spent Rs 45 lakh on replacing the Tamil dialogue with Kannada.
We wanted to release Satyadev IPS in at least one theatre in every district to know the audience reaction to dubbing, he said.
Satyadev IPS is the second film dubbed into Kannada after the ban was overruled. The first, Nanu Nanna Preethi, was dubbed from Hindi and released in October 2016.
Krishnamurthy said Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) president Sa Ra Govindu was behind the protests.
Govindu refused to comment, saying KFCC was already facing a case before the Competition Commission of India. Commenting at this point would amount to contempt of court, he said.
Rally on March 11
Leaders of some Kannada organisations in Bengaluru demonstrated against the release. Kannada Chalavali Paksha president Vatal Nagaraj demanded senior actors come out and protest.
We have called a meeting to discuss dubbing on March 6, and will take out a rally on March 11, he said.
Kannada stars role
Kannada industry stars should stop giving dates to producers of films in other languages. We should stop importing heroines, musicians and artistes. Collective efforts should be made to prevent dubbing, which Dr Rajkumar had opposed, said Munirathna Naidu, president, Kannada Film Producers Association.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj hailed the heroism of Ian Grillot and sent a message to the US citizen, who was injured while trying to save two Indian IT professionals in Kansas on February 22.
Anupam Ray, Consul General of India in Houston, travelled to Kansas to meet Grillot and his parents at Kansas University hospital. He conveyed to Grillot the message from the External Affairs Minister.
Grillot was hit by bullets when he tried to save Srinivas Kuchibhotla and Alok Madasani when they were targeted in an apparent hate crime at a bar in Kansas. Kuchibhotla was killed and Madasani injured.
Kuchibhotla and Madasani worked for multinational company Garmin Limited at Olathe in Kansas. They were shot at by a local resident Adam Purinton, who, according to some reports in US media, hurled racial slur at his victims.
Grillot was discharged from Kansas University hospital on Thursday. Kuchibhotla's wife Sunayana Dumala also thanked Grillot in a Facebook post. Meanwhile, a report from Houston Grillot has been released from the hospital.
The University of Kansas Health System said that Grillot was released from the hospital on Tuesday and has been invited to India to be recognised for his heroics.
Pakistan Rangers have raised an objection to the proposed installation of Indias largest tricolour on the tallest flagpole, a whopping 360-foot high (110 metres), close to the border zone in Attari near Amritsar.
The tricolour, measuring 36 metres in length and 24 metres in width will be inaugurated on Sunday, Amritsar district Public Relations Officer Sher Jung Singh told DH.
The flagpole which is at least 30 metres taller than the Qutab Minar and the flag will be under the care and supervision of the Border Security Force (BSF). It will be visible from Amritsar and Lahore in Pakistan, which is just about 20km from the Attari-Wagha international border.
Sources said the Pakistan Rangers, during a recent meeting with the BSF, expressed concern over such a tall structure being installed just 200 metres from the international border. The concern revolved around security and surveillance issues. The BSF for its part discounted the apprehensions as unfounded.
A special crane has been requisitioned from Mumbai for the installation of the flagpole. This assignment alone will cost about Rs 61 lakh. The entire project will cost at least Rs 4.5 crore and is being funded by the Amritsar Improvement Trust.
A whopping 55 tonnes of metal has been used in the gigantic flagpole which has a 20-foot deep foundation. The BSF has been provided with nearly 20 flags in case replacement is required due to damage.
The unit is capable of withstanding heavy winds and tremors. At present, the countrys largest national flag is located in Ranchi with a flagpole measuring 293 feet. It was hoisted last year by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.
Lance Naik Roy Mathew, who was part of a video criticising the sahayak system that went viral, was found dead at the Deolali Cantonment in Nashik district of Maharashtra.
Even as investigation was underway, the Pune-headquartered Southern Command blamed the media for the death of the soldier.
Mathew (33), a gunner, was an orderly attached to what is described as buddy duties with a Colonel at the School of Artillery in Deolali. He is from Kollam in Kerala. Lance Naik Mathew had joined army around 13 years ago and was posted in Deolali.
Mathew had reportedly given statements that higher officials were mistreating sahayaks inside the camp and they were made to do petty jobs, including polishing shoes, washing laundry and taking dogs for walks. Visuals were shot using hidden cameras and before posting them, faces were masked.
The soldier had contacted his wife on February 25 and thereafter he was reported missing. In the video, he had raised issues concerning the sahayak system. On Thursday, his body was found in a decomposed state in an abandoned barrack. Initial reports said that it could have been suicide.
India is weighing its options for restarting engagements with Pakistan, but is keen to keep low-key subtle moves it has been making to de-escalate tension in bilateral relations.
Though its representative to the India-Pakistan Permanent Indus Commission is set to attend the annual meeting of the panel in Lahore later this month, New Delhi insists that it should not be construed as a move towards resumption of its stalled dialogue with Islamabad.
The Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) comprises two commissioners, one each from India and Pakistan. The Indus Water Treaty of 1960 mandated the commission to discuss issues related to the sharing of waters of the cross-border rivers and manage implementation of the pact.
New Delhis commissioner at the PIC, P K Saxena, an officer of the Ministry of Water Resources, accepted an invitation from his counterpart in Pakistan to hold the meeting of the commission at Lahore later this month.
The PIC is set to meet just six months after India decided not to hold any meeting of the commission with Pakistan to protest cross-border terror from the neighbouring country.
Soon after the terror attack on an army camp at Uri in north Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 26 reviewed the implementation of the Indus Water Treaty and decided that India would not hold a meeting of the PIC with Pakistan, as long as the neighbouring country continued to export terror.
Not climbdown
India, however, insists that its commissioners recent decision to accept the invitation by his counterpart in Pakistan should not be seen as a climbdown or shift of stand.
New Delhi insists that the PIC met 112 times in the past and its meetings cannot be seen as parleys between the governments of India and Pakistan, because the commissioners are independently setting the agenda of the meeting and finalising the dates.
India is treading cautiously on restarting its stalled dialogues with Pakistan, because a similar move by New Delhi initiated in December 2015 had to be aborted due to a series of cross-border terror attacks in 2016, ceasefire violations and escalation of tension over Kashmir.
Indias Indus commissioner agreed to meet his counterpart in Pakistan, at a time when both New Delhi and Islamabad sent out several signs of a thaw in bilateral relations.
The Delhi University remained the epicentre of student politics for the 10th consecutive day as the Students Federation of India (SFI) took out a march and held demonstrations against the RSS and its affiliates, accusing them of disrupting education and democracy.
Hundreds of students from various states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and West Bengal, participated in the protest march on Friday amid heavy deployment of police.
The Delhi Police have tightened security in and around the campus in view of the protest at Ramjas College last week. We will protest until there is freedom of speech and expression on campuses, SFI president V P Sanu said.
Meanwhile, a delegation of Akhila Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad leaders called on Lt Governor Anil Baijal demanding an FIR against communist students who raised Azadi slogans at Ramjas College on February 21.
In its memorandum, the ABVP termed the slogans anti-national and said it spoiled the academic harmony of the university.
The raising of such slogans led to a scuffle among the students as the elected body of Ramjas College opposed it. Several complaints were lodged in this connection. Though video recordings and other evidence were submitted to the police, they did not lodge an FIR against the accused, an ABVP member said.
File charge sheet
The outfit also demanded that Baijal direct the Delhi Police to file a charge sheet against the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students who were booked for anti-national sloganeering at an event organised in memory of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru last year.
It described JNU research scholar Umar Khalid as the prime accused in the case. The accused are openly spreading intellectual vehemence in academic spaces, the memorandum read.
Meanwhile, the Congress-backed National Students Union of India held a campaign holding placards and roses in Delhi University, seeking peace.
China on Friday warned India against allowing the Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh, saying it would cause serious damage to the bilateral ties and peace in the disputed border region.
China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai to visit Arunachal Pradesh, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told the media here.
China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of Tibet and routinely objects to any visits by top leaders, officials and diplomats to the area. China had also aired similar concerns in October when India granted permission to the Tibetan spiritual leader to visit Arunachal Pradesh at the invitation of the state government.
The visit is expected to take place this year. China is strongly opposed to the Dalai visiting disputed areas, Geng said.
Chinas position on the eastern section of China-India border dispute is consistent and clear. The Dalai clique has long been engaging in anti-China separatist activities and its record on the border question is not that good, he said.
Geng said China expressed its concern to India through formal channels. India is fully aware of the seriousness of the Dalai issue and the sensitivity of China-India border question, he said.
Under such a background, if India invites the Dalai to visit the mentioned territory, it will cause serious damage to peace and stability of border region and China-India relations, he said.
We have expressed concerns to the Indian side, urged India to stick to its political commitments and abide by important consensus the two sides have reached on the boundary question, refrain from actions that might complicate the issue, not provide a platform to the Dalai clique and protect the sound and stable development of the Sino-India relations, he said.
Gengs comments came in the backdrop of an interview to the Chinese media by former Chinese Special Representative on boundary dispute Dai Bingguo in which he said the border dispute between the two nations can be resolved if India gives up claim over Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
Asked about Dais comments, Geng said he has not seen the interview.Geng said Chinas principled position on the boundary question with India is to reach an early solution. Finding a solution to the pending issue is in the fundamental interest of the two nations, he added.
In a development that gives a big boost to the aviation industry in Karnataka, aerospace major Boeing is holding talks with the state government on setting up a new aircraft manufacturing facility near Bengaluru.
Top officials of the state government held discussions with representatives of Boeing recently. Availability of land close to Bengaluru, tax incentives and special packages the government can offer to the company were discussed. But nothing has been finalised yet, nor has the company submitted a formal proposal to the government on its investment plans, sources in the government said.
We are holding talks with Boeing. The company has plans to set up a new manufacturing facility near Bengaluru. Talks are still in preliminary stages, Industries Minister R V Deshpande told DH. The minister, however, refused to divulge details on the companys investment plans. Boeing recently launched its Engineering and Technology Centre in Bengaluru.
A few months ago, the US aircraft manufacturer had revealed that it was keen on investing in a new futuristic Indian factory under the Make in India initiative. The company had said that it wants to create an entire aviation ecosystem for building its fighter aircraft, F/A-18 Super Hornet.
The F/A-18 Super Hornet is a twin-engine, supersonic, multirole fighter jet capable of landing and taking off from an aircraft carrier. But it is not clear whether the company is holding talks with the state government on establishing the factory near Bengaluru.
AP too is wooing
Sources in the Commerce and Industries department said that neighbouring Andhra Pradesh is also wooing Boeing to invest there. Andhra Pradesh has been aggressive in attracting investments. But, the Karnataka government is not lagging behind in this regard. Karnataka has an edge over other states as Bengaluru is an aviation hub, the sources added.
The sources said one of the reasons for the state government to hurriedly approve a proposal to relax land allotment rules for industrial purposes, is to compete with Andhra Pradesh in attracting Boeing. Projects coming in single unit complex bracket will get land on lease-cum-sale basis and absolute sale deed for the land will be issued to the investor after 15 years, as per the governments decision.
Hitherto, land for industrial purposes was given only on 99 years lease. The Andhra Pradesh government has already simplified its land allotment rules.
BJP state president B S Yeddyurappa on Friday said that by scrapping the steel flyover project in Bengaluru, the Congress government has admitted that kickbacks were received for the project.
Yeddyurappa told reporters here that scrapping of the controversial infrastructure project also proves the veracity of the entries in the Congress MLC K Govindarajs diary, which was seized by Income Tax officials from the bedroom of his house. He charged that Rs 65 crore was paid to the family members of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for the steel flyover project. Siddaramaiah should retire from politics if the allegations of bribe are proved or else I will retire from politics, he challenged.
The former chief minister said that an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will prove that Rs 450 crore to Rs 600 crore of taxpayers money was 'sent' to the Congress high command in Delhi. He demanded that the state government hand over the case to CBI if it is so sure of being innocent. As the scam spreads across states, the Union government can also ask the CBI to investigate the issue, he said.
Yeddyurappa said the Sahara papers and Govindaraj diary cannot be compared, as in the Sahara case it is just a piece of paper, while Govindaraj himself has accepted that the diary is his. The diary will stand the scrutiny of law, he added.
Cong MLAS to join BJP?
Meanwhile, Yeddyurappa said that a minister and more than 10 Congress MLAs are knocking on the doors of the BJP. We will welcome them only if they resign three to four months before the Assembly elections, he said and added that the ticket to such leaders to contest the Assembly polls will be considered only after consulting with the partys core committee.
BJP spreading lies about graft in govt: CM
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday said the BJP is spreading lies about corruption in his government and he will not respond to the charges. Siddaramaiah told reporters in Bengaluru that the BJP is repeatedly going to town spreading lies about the contents of the diary reportedly belonging to Congress MLC K Govindaraj.
The BJP on Thursday had claimed that the state government had scrapped the controversial steel flyover project following the exposure of the contents of the diary that purportedly has entries on kickbacks received by Siddaramaiah for sanctioning the project.
The BJP leaders have no documents to prove their charges. They are telling lies and I will not respond to them, Siddaramaih said.
The BJP seems to have emerged a favourite among politicians shifting their party affiliations with at least five former legislators set to join the saffron fold this month.
Party observers feel the trend is an indication of the growing clout of the party at the cost of the Congress at the grassroots. Besides, hundreds of supporters follow their leader into the party, increasing its base. The party, at this point, has not been selective when it comes to opening its doors to new comers. All those joining, except maybe former minister V Srinivas Prasad, are not imposing conditions, the sources said.
The trend of party-hopping started in January this year when Prasad quit the Congress to join the BJP. Prasad was unhappy that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had unceremoniously dropped him from his Cabinet. The Assembly elections are a good 14 months away. But the first litmus test for the party will be the outcome of the Nanjangud and Gundlupet Assembly byelections, dates for which are expected to be announced in the third week of March. Prasad will be contesting from his home constituency of Nanjangud on a BJP ticket.
On more familiar ground for the party in Uttara Kannada, former MP and Congress leader K Jayaprakash Hegde is likely to join the BJP on March 8. Hegde represented the Udupi-Chikkamagaluru Lok Sabha constituency and has a good rapport with voters from the Bunt community in the coastal region. Sitting MP Shobha Karandlaje is likely to quit the Lok Sabha constituency to contest the Assembly elections next year and Hegde, in all probability, will contest from the seat.
Kundapur MLA Haladi Srinivas Shetty, who had contested successfully as an independent candidate in the 2003 Assembly elections, has mended fences with the BJP and is likely to formally rejoin the party this month. Political churning is happening in the Malnad region too with party sources stating that former minister Kumar Bangarappa is likely to join the BJP within the next few days.
Down south, Parimala Nagappa, who had won the Hanur Assembly constituency in Chamarajanagar district in 2004, will join the BJP tentatively on March 16. Parimala Nagappa is at present with the Congress and the BJP has no presence in Hanur.
Congress leader and former Bhatkal MLA G D Naik will also join the BJP.
Earlier this week, former MLA and JD(S) leader from Uttara Kannada Dinakar Shetty and Congress leader from Yellapur Pramod Hegde joined the BJP.
They are likely to be given the ticket to contest from Kumta and Yellapur Assembly constituencies respectively, at present held by Sharada Mohan Shetty (Cong) and Arbail Shivaram Hebbar (Independent).
Jailed underworld don Arun Gawlis daughter will support the BJP in the mayoral polls of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.
A third-time corporator, Geeta Gawli (34) is the president of the Akhil Bharatiya Sena. Arun, who is currently lodged in the Nagpur central prison and serving life imprisonment in a murder case, has been a one-term MLA in Maharashtra.
On Thursday, Geeta met senior Shiv Sena leaders Eknath Shinde and Anil Desai and BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
During the separate meetings, Geeta put up two demands one-term chairmanship of the health committee and membership to the standing committee. Though BJP leaders have not yet commented officially, it is learnt that she would be supporting the party.
The Indian Institutes of Technology want the government to bear the tuition fee of students belonging to scheduled caste (SC), scheduled tribe (ST), besides persons with disability (PwD).
These students currently get a complete fee waiver at the IITs and the premier technical institutes bear the cost from their own resources. The elite engineering colleges now want the government to pay the tuition fee of these students, with the inclusion of newer categories of students in the fee waiver scheme last year.
The IITs, which have been expressing difficulty in bearing the additional financial burden thrust upon them, have urged the HRD Ministry to accord top priority to this issue at their meeting on IITs in April, sources in the IITs told DH. HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar will preside over the meeting.
Last year, the IITs increased their tuition fee for general category students from Rs 90,000 to Rs 2 lakh with approval of their Council. However, they also had to accept the HRD Ministrys proposal for full fee waive of special category students as well as those with annual family income of up to Rs 1 lakh, besides the existing fee waiver for SC/ST students.
The IIT Council also had to accede to the ministrys direction to waive two thirds of the tuition fee of students whose family income is between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 5 lakh. An interest-free loan scheme was simultaneously introduced to facilitate payment of the balance of the tuition fee entitled for waiver of two thirds of their fee.
This has strained our financial resources as the number of claimants of fee waiver increased with inclusion of newer categories. Increase in the general tuition fee did not help us ease our financial burden as the total spending on education of one student is three times higher than the fee we collect from the student, sources from one of the IIT administration said.
The government may nudge bankers to wait for sometime before imposing a fee on cash transactions beyond a certain limit. Some private sector banks have informed their customers that they will impose transaction charges after four or five transactions.
We will talk to banking management. I do not think any public sector bank has resorted to the move so far, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said.Though the government has not issued any directive to public sector banks, government-owned banks, too, will resort to the practice from April 1.
The countrys largest public sector lender, State Bank of India, said that it has already levied Rs 50 beyond three transactions, and will renew the same from April 1. The Oriental Bank of Commerce, however, resorted to the practice from March 1.
Withdrawals from ATMs are also likely to be charged in the same way as it existed before demonetisation. While SBI allows 10 free transactions from its ATMs, others give concession up to four or five.
It is not yet clear whether the government will ask bankers to completely withdraw the charges or increase the limit of transactions beyond which the levy should apply, but officials said Jaitley may ask them to give people more time to get used to digital transactions.
During an election rally in Varanasi on Thursday, Jaitley said that banks have been asked to procure more point of sale machines and make it available to traders in order to facilitate digital payments.
The Confederation of All India Traders has called the proposed levy a type of financial terrorism, adding that putting people through hardship was not the way to promote digital transactions.
On Friday, March 10, the Solana Beach Civic and Historical Society will present an evening with Richard Lederer. His presentation will be Fascinating Facts About Our Presidents. The program will begin at 5 p.m. at the Community Center at Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach.
Lederer is the author of more than 40 books about language, history and humor, including his best-selling Anguished English series and his current books, Amazing Words, Lederer on Language and Presidential Trivia. Lederers column Lederer on Language appears weekly in The San Diego Union-Tribune, and he is a founding co-host of A Way with Words on KPBS Public Radio. He has been named International Punster of the Year and Toastmasters Internationals Golden Gavel Award winner.
The Torrey Hills Community Planning Board is re-igniting its attempts to restripe the Carmel Mountain Road and El Camino Real intersection.
The board first made a request to the city back in 2009 to add a second northbound turn lane onto Carmel Mountain Road.
Currently traveling to Carmel Mountain Road from I-5, one lane turns right onto Carmel Mountain Road, one lane goes straight onto Carmel Creek Road and three lanes turn left onto El Camino Real.
According to planning board member Guy Ravad, due to the current lane configuration, a line of cars gets stacked up all the way back to the freeway and drivers are forced to cheat over to make illegal right turns from the straight-through lane. Drivers who want to head straight on Carmel Creek to the communities of Greenbriar, Monte Clare and Triology end up using the far left turn lane and sneaking in at the last minute to avoid those using the straight-through lane to turn right.
All activity is worse now more than ever, said Ravad at the boards Feb. 21 meeting.
In the past, the city had issues with what they perceived to be low traffic counts at the intersection as well as preserving the bike lane. The planning boards request would be to keep the bike lane and make one lane a straight and a right.
At the meeting, the board approved sending a letter to expedite the re-striping to Mayor Kevin Faulconer and San Diego City Council.
At its Feb. 23 meeting, the Carmel Valley Community Planning Board heard public input from local residents about a new 10-home housing development in Carmel Valley. Called Lighthouse Ridge, the development is planned on a vacant lot at the end of Lighthouse Way in a neighborhood behind Congregation Beth Am neighbors shared concerns about the impacts of building new homes on a steep slope above Chelterham Terrace.
According to Matt Semic of Latitude 33 Planning and Engineering, the developers could potentially break ground on the homes as soon as the end of the year. The project is in its second round of reviews with the city and developers hope to continue meeting with the neighbors and come back before the planning board in April for approval.
The existing owner took ownership a year ago before that, the property was owned by a trust.
Residents said they anticipated homes being built on the western side of the lot, where it is more flat but the eastern side is a steep slope and they never guessed there could be houses there.
Semic said the county is unfortunately seeing more pocket developments like this one, wedging new homes into already developed neighborhoods. He said because big homebuilders can no longer build 200 to 300 homes at a time as theres not hundreds of acres of land left, they must embark on what is considered a suburban infill development.
Neighbors on Chelterham Terrace below the proposed project said they are concerned about not only the massing of their homes but maintaining their privacy if the new homes will look down on their properties.
Semic said the view will be pretty challenging due to the grade difference and heavy tree coverage between the lots.
Just as valuable as your privacy is, its just as valuable for the potential homebuyer, Semic said.
Carmel Valley Planning Board Chair Frisco White made a request that the developers make an effort design-wise to respect the topography and not to use fill to make the pads any higher.
Residents also expressed concerns about the neighborhoods narrow streets and construction going on in their backyards for 18 months. White said the planning board can make construction conditions a part of the project approval.
Dont be surprised when you start to see more and more bestselling authors coming out of San Diego.
Over the past five years, the CCA Writers Conference the only free writers conference for high school students in the country has continued to grow and encourage aspiring young writers, drawing in hundreds of teens from more than 20 area high schools and attracting top names in publishing.
On Saturday, March 11, Canyon Crest Academys Creative Writing Club will present the sixth annual conference, and it looks to be the biggest one yet.
Twenty-two authors will lead workshops in a variety of subjects from screenwriting to poetry to comics and graphic novels. Students will have the opportunity to participate in six different sessions with a choice of four workshops per session.
The day will begin with a keynote address by Mary E. Pearson, author of several award-winning books for teens, including the bestselling Jenna Fox Chronicles.
The conference has gained recognition by both authors and publishers, and authors have actually started to reach out to us, requesting to speak, which is really great, said Julia Camilleri, president of the CCA Creative Writing Club. This year, we have the largest number of New York Times bestselling authors presenting, and attendance is soaring!
Camilleri, a senior at CCA, joined the Creative Writing Club during her freshman year, and took over after former president and conference founder, Devyn Krevat, graduated.
As a sophomore, Julia stepped into the role of president with poise and competence, said Kathy Krevat, author of the bestselling Chocolate Covered Mystery series and conference consultant. She balanced it all with a heavy academic workload and other extracurricular activities.
In fact, Camilleri not only founded an after-school writing club for middle school students but she also piloted a creative writing program for at-risk teens in partnership with Words Alive, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to literacy.
In addition, she is working on her Gold Award, the highest award that can be achieved in Girl Scouts.
Although all of these projects revolve around writing, Camilleri plans to pursue a pre-med course of study in college, with the goal of becoming a pediatrician.
Writing is a hobby and de-stressing activity that I enjoy on the side, she explained. It has and will continue to be a creative outlet for me and an important tool in my future endeavors.
Camilleri believes that any high school student considering a career in writing should take advantage of this conference.
Its a great learning opportunity, and students even have the chance to meet a literary agent in a workshop about getting published, she said. Every author has a unique experience to share about the process of becoming successful. Plus, theres something for everyone, whether youre interested in journalism, creative writing, poetry, graphic novels pretty much any genre related to writing.
Krevat agrees. As an author myself, I think there are three valuable takeaways from this conference. 1) Students learn how to navigate the publishing industry, which is more complex than they realized. 2) They see that the speakers were once just like them, which is empowering. 3) They get to be around people who love what they love. So many attendees said they found their tribe at this conference.
According to Camilleri, fantasy, action and horror tend to be the most popular genres among attendees. Top workshops have been Grand World Building in Fantasy, Writing Great Action Scenes, and College Essay Writing, and all are back by popular demand.
This years conference is bittersweet for Camilleri because it will be her last.
I love the excitement around the day, and the buzz you can feel during the whole event, she said. We start registration at 8 a.m. and there are always students turning up earlier because theyre so excited.
Camilleri remembers dozens of moments that stand out to her from past conferences.
One image that will always stay with me is of a student who had brought all his savings to the conference, she said. He was walking back to his car and his hands were piled high with 30 books he purchased and had signed by the authors at the conference. He looked so happy!
This year, Camilleri is looking forward to meeting keynote speaker Mary E. Pearson, whose book, The Adoration of Jenna Fox, will soon be heading to the big screen. Shes also excited about presenting an award to spoken word poet Viet Mai, who will close the conference with an inspirational performance.
Last year, we initiated a Jonathan Maberry Inspiring Teens Award to acknowledge the authors support of the conference and all that he does to promote teen literacy in San Diego, said Camilleri. It was such an honor to be able to present the award to him, and I cant wait to present it to Viet Mai this year.
Camilleri is grateful to have worked with all the authors whove donated their time to appear at the conference, Krevat, her fellow Creative Writing Club students and the CCA Administration, especially Brett Killeen, Milan Perisic and the CCA ASB.
Although Camilleri will soon be passing the baton to the new club president, you can bet she will be as busy as ever.
Once the conference is over, I am going to be focusing my time on enjoying my last few months in high school, she laughed. Oh, and deciding where Ill be going to college!
The 6th Annual CCA Writers Conference will take place on Saturday, March 11 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Canyon Crest Academy, Proscenium and Media Center, 5951 Village Center Loop Road, San Diego. The event is for high school students only. Admission is free and includes programs, handouts, paper, pens and a free lunch from Chipotle Carmel Valley. Preregistration is required.
For a donation of $50 or more, book clubs, organizations and individuals can sponsor a speaker and be acknowledged in the conference program.
For more information or to make a donation, visit ccawritersconference2017.weebly.com
Too many school board members regard their elected positions as full-time careers and have served on school boards far longer than is reasonable.
Term limits have been supported by citizens for many elected posts, including the president of the United States, state and federal office holders, and numerous county and city positions.
Mark Powell, in a San Diego Union-Tribune op-ed last year, wrote that polling consistently shows support for term limits for elected officials. Yet its not done for school board members.
Powell, who was just elected to the San Diego County Board of Education, wrote, Serving as a school board member should not be a career and that serving for decades can lead to stagnation and a lack of fresh decision-making.
He said, School boards thrive when new ideas are allowed to flourish and that a school board works best when people are allowed to infuse new ideas and come up with creative and innovative teaching strategies.
In this newspapers feature last August on the San Dieguito Union High School District candidates running for school board, incumbent Joyce Dalessandro is quoted as saying, I love my job!
Dalessandro was just elected last November to her sixth term.
No one will deny that experience counts for something. But as Powell said, its not supposed to be a job or career.
SDUHSD board member John Salazar agrees with Powell and supports the idea of term limits.
Salazar, who was first elected in 2010 and re-elected in 2014, said in a March 3, 2016 San Diego Union-Tribune article, It makes sense to get some turnover.
His proposal as envisioned would not apply to sitting trustees, only to future school board members.
Dalessandro, who has served on the San Dieguito board since 1996, said in the same U-T story that she would not support term limits for school board members.
Term limits limit the choice the public has, she is quoted as saying. If you have a great board member, they then can get termed out. What is the intelligence there?
It takes a long time to learn the ins and outs of a school district. Its a very long learning process, added Dalessandro, who if she finishes her term of office in 2020 will have served for 24 years as a San Dieguito trustee.
Unjustly vilified
That its a long learning process may be true. But almost all elected officials have a learning curve to get up to speed. No one walks in fully knowledgeable.
Yes, long-time board members may be more educated about how school districts operate, due to longevity, and they have historical perspective.
But school board members are not unique among all other elected positions. They do not require special knowledge or higher intelligence. Its nothing that smart, committed individuals cant learn.
After serving multiple terms in office, trustees feel protective of the legacy theyve helped to create and the need to preserve a particular ideological point of view. But this shuts out others who may have much to contribute and may be quick studies.
Encouraging potential candidates with similar views to run in their stead is a tactic frequently employed by veteran trustees who decide they want out.
This protects the long-time school board members agenda by ensuring that their pet issues remain intact and their particular ideology continues.
But does it cross the line when trustees hand-pick their successors, get the backing of special interests, and work behind the scenes to unduly influence the election?
Qualified candidates who can infuse a school district with fresh vitality, energy and new ideas are often discouraged when faced with the decision to challenge entrenched incumbents. It takes a special kind of person to take that on.
Last year, there was no more qualified, knowledgeable and energized San Dieguito school board candidate than Lucile Lynch. But because she was running against two long-time incumbents, Dalessandro and Beth Hergesheimer, she lost.
Perhaps the bigger reason she lost is because she was unjustly vilified by the San Dieguito teachers union which campaigned vigorously for the two incumbents who had just months before approved a huge raise for teachers.
Lynch is a woman who reasonably and very respectfully questioned board decisions about the budget, salary increases, spending priorities and vendor contracts.
She was not, as the union insisted, a rubber stamp for an anti-teacher agenda. She was an independent thinker who owed allegiance to no one, not least of all the board minority. She was engaged, articulate, dedicated and intelligent.
And yet she lost, a loss for students and parents in the district as well. Beating veteran incumbents, especially incumbents endorsed by the teachers union, can be an insurmountable challenge.
Fresh enthusiasm
For local school districts, the following trustees are serving three or more terms of four years each:
San Dieguito Union High School District:
*Joyce Dalessandro, first elected in 1996, now serving her sixth term which expires in 2020
*Beth Hergesheimer, first elected in 2004, now serving her fourth term which expires in 2020
Encinitas Union School District:
*Marla Strich, first elected in 1998, now serving her fifth term which expires in 2018
Cardiff School District :
*Nancy Orr, first elected in 1988, now serving her eighth term which expires in 2020
Solana Beach School District :
*Vicki King, first elected in 2006, now serving her third term which expires in 2018
*Rich Leib, first elected in 2008, now serving his third term which expires in 2020
*Debra Schade, first elected in 2002, now serving her fourth term which expires in 2018
The Rancho Santa Fe School District and the Del Mar Union School District each have five trustees, all serving either their first or second terms of office.
In the cases of Cardiff and Encinitas, its less of an issue when only one trustee out of five is a long-timer. But in San Dieguito and Solana Beach, its time for new blood.
No one would question that longevity offers advantages. But someone especially a younger board member who still has children attending district schools can offset the loss of a veteran by providing the district with new, exciting ways to think about problems and solutions and by contributing fresh enthusiasm that prevents school boards from becoming stagnant.
Maybe the limit is two terms, maybe three. But beyond that, it becomes tedious and even obstructionist, as newcomers who would like to contribute to the process as public servants are shut out.
At some point, veteran trustees need to step aside and step aside completely to give other voices a chance to be heard. Term limits may be the only way to force the issue.
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There is potential good news on the legislative front for proponents of later school start times.
On Feb. 13, Democratic state Sen. Anthony Portantino introduced Senate Bill 328 which would require all Calif. middle and high schools to start school no earlier than 8:30 a.m.
The science is clear, he said, that starting the school day later improves the quality of education, health and welfare of our children.
Portantinos news release cited studies that confirm that insufficient sleep in teens poses a public health risk and has an adverse effect on academic success.
In addition, later start times would improve attendance. Since funding is tied to attendance, Portantinos office said that the Los Angeles Unified School District, for example, would gain about $40 million per year if attendance improved by just 1 percent.
The benefits of later school start times for adolescents struggling with changing circadian rhythms have been irrefutably documented by leading scientific and medical professionals and organizations for so many years that its astonishing why districts like San Dieguito continue to be unresponsive.
Excuses like a disruption of bus schedules and after-school sports, and an inconvenience to parents and teachers ring hollow when districts claim to support their students health, well-being and academic success.
A 9 a.m. start time would be even better, but 8:30 a.m. is progress.
School districts have ignored the data on the benefits of later start times for decades now. Finally, they may be forced to act in students best interests.
Sr. Education Writer Marsha Sutton can be reached at suttonmarsha@gmail.com.
The Samoa Submarine Cable Company (SSCC) has commissioned two eCentre data centre solutions from Flexenclosure.
The solutions will be deployed as cable landing stations terminating the new submarine TUI-Samoa cable at Vavaisse and Tuasivi.
Following the contract signing in Hawaii in January, construction of the cable landing stations has already begun at Flexenclosures factory in Sweden and the ground breaking ceremonies have taken place in Samoa. Operational deployment and full commissioning of both eCentres is planned for June of this year.
The eCentres will terminate the new submarine TUI-Samoa cable, connecting Samoa, Fiji, and Wallis and Futuna. The TUI-Samoa cable will reduce the current dependence on satellite communications and accelerate the launch of innovative new services.
Samoan people and the region will benefit from fast, reliable and affordable Internet which will open up opportunities for social and economic development, said Emmanuel Delanoue, CEO, SSCC. Given the national importance of this project, we chose Flexenclosure to supply the cable landing stations as they have a very strong track-record in deploying turnkey, customised and ruggedised solutions able to withstand the harshest of weather conditions like those of the Pacific.
We are very excited to be a part of such a transformational project for the country and people of Samoa, said David King, CEO, Flexenclosure. eCentre is the worlds most versatile data centre building and we expect to see significant growth of our cable landing station business over the coming months and years.
Flexenclosure is a specialist in prefabricated eCentre cable landing stations specifically for the submarine cable industry. They can be built to accommodate permanent staff or to be unmanned 24 x7 facilities. With eCentres modular construction, facilities can easily be expanded to accommodate additional equipment as data traffic grows, without interrupting on-going operations.
KGI's Ming-Chi Kuo refutes an older claim that iPhones will switch to USB-C port like company's 2016 MacBook Pro lineup. Apple is also expected to support fast charging with the introduction of 2017 iPhone lineup
Apple's 2017 iPhone lineup will keep the lightning port, but switch to USB-C standard for power delivery. According to KGI's Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will finally bring fast charging to iPhones with the adoption of USB-C power delivery. Apple recently joined the Wireless Power Consortium and the company is likely to add wireless charging support to iPhones this year.
Earlier this week, a Wall Street Journal report claimed that iPhones will switch to USB-C port like the company's 2016 MacBook Pro lineup. Kuo refutes that claim stating Apple will keep the proprietary lightning port but the internal components will change to support 'Type C Power Delivery'. The design advantage and royalties program is seen as major reason to continue using the Lightning port.
Kuo has already revealed that Apple will adopt 2-cell L shaped battery design for the next-generation iPhone 8. The new report suggests Apple will source components from Texas Instruments and Cypress. The USB-C port supports faster data transfer rates than Apple's Lightning but the Cupertino-based company finds it a 'niche application' and not a compelling upgrade.
The proprietary Lightning port has a slimmer design when compared to a USB-C port. Apple also licenses Lightning port design under its MFi program to accessory makers. Apple's switch to USB-C port would make the next iPhone incompatible with thousands of Lightning accessories and could also draw criticism from companies part of the MFi program.
Apple is expected to launch three new iPhones later this year. Two of those models are expected to serve as an incremental updates to the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, while the third one could be a redesigned iPhone with an OLED display. Kuo predicts that Apple will include a Lightning to USB-C cable instead of the traditional USB-A cable with the next iPhone model.
Legendary Investments announced on Friday that its investee company VirtualStock had been appointed by the John Lewis Partnership to implement its supply chain management system The Edge.
The AIM-traded firm said John Lewis would be utilising The Edge platform's capabilities including its availability and order management functionality to develop the retailers supplier direct channel.
It said VS would connect suppliers with John Lewis' systems and processes, enabling improved real-time inventory updates through a centralised system, with The Edge providing a collaborative workspace enabling John Lewis and its suppliers to work together.
VS had previously deployed digital solutions to leading retailers including Tesco, Maplin, Sainsbury's Argos, Dixons Carphone and Office Depot.
The partnership is excited to be working with VirtualStock in building functionality to continue moving forward as Britain's leading omni-channel retailer, said John Lewis head of direct-to-consumer Edward Osborne.
Andrew Mills, chief executive of VS, described the firm asdelighted to welcome John Lewis as a client.
We look forward to delivering digital transformation, improving the customer experience and helping John Lewis to remain at the forefront of the market.
Zafar Karim, executive chairman of Legendary Investments, said the board there was also pleased with VirtualStock's continued progress.
Early last year, VirtualStock had three household retailers - Tesco, Sainsbury's Argos and MapIin as clients.
It now has more than double that number, including the John Lewis Partnership.
VirtualStock is now established as a leading supply chain solution in retail, and it is in discussion with several additional retail clients.
Karim said early last year, VirtualStock also had one NHS trust - Guy's and St Thomas' - as a client.
In February 2015, VirtualStock procurement solution was described as exemplary of best practice in employing digital technology to deliver significant cost reductions in Lord Carter's productivity review of the NHS.
VS's client portfolio now includes the Shelford Group, which comprises ten leading NHS multi-speciality academic healthcare organisations as clients, and it is in discussions with several additional NHS trusts.
Lighthouse Group has won a new one-year contract with the Money Advice Service to provide of financial advice to its employees.
The AIM-listed advisory firm will provide advice on savings, investments, pensions, protection and mortgages to employees of the Money Advice Service, an organisation that aims to enhance the general publics knowledge of financial issues.
This contract builds on its recent contract wins from UNISON, Unite, BA Clubs, Prospect, the Fire Brigades Union and the Royal College of Nursing.
Lighthouse chief executive Malcolm Streatfield said: "We look forward to developing our relationship over the coming months and working closely with the Money Advice Service employees, who themselves are dedicated to helping others, and assisting them with their financial planning requirements.
He added that the company remains committed to increasing its affinity partnerships throughout the UK.
Shares in Lighthouse Group were down 0.32% to 15.45p at 0806 GMT.
US citizens will no longer be able to travel to the European Union without a visa, after the EU's civil liberties committee voted to block free access to to its member states in response to the failure of the US to agree to a similar agreement with five European countries.
MEPs called on Washington to grant visa-free conditions to citizens fo Bulgaria, Croatia, Poland, Romania and Cyprus, as it does to the other 23 member states of the EU.
A visa waiver program which is currently in place allows US nationals to travel freely to any of the bloc nations, but the European Parliament vote on Friday now refers the policy to the European Commission.
A report published by the Commission in December said the EU was working towards a resolution of the visa standoff and "using all opportunities to explore the way ahead and all options or necessary actions to be taken to achieve this objective."
The US Department of Homeland Security has claimed that the five European nations concerned had not been upholding the requirements set out under the reciprocal agreement.
UK immigration minister Robert Goodwill called on the Eu to introduce an ESTA-style system for European travellers to the United States.
"British people are now used to the US ESTA scheme and, therefore, we view with interest how the European scheme might develop and what similarities, and differences, there may be to the US scheme," Mr Goodwill said.
"This type of scheme is generally there to help enhance security. To get to know as much as possible about the people who are intending to travel."
US President Donald Trump will oversee a massive overhaul of the Environmental Protection Agency 's funding, with the total budget for the regulatory body to be cut by 25%, and a key climate protection programme to lose 70% of its funding.
The White House has proposed the budget cuts for the EPA in order to reverse the Obama administration's push towards climate change regulation, but the President has promised that the funding cuts would not damage the air and water quality in the US.
According to Reuters, the EPA's annual budget will be slashed to $6.1bn, including 12,400 staff, when Trump presents his budget proposal for 2018.
The cuts will have to be approved by Congress however, such is its control over administration spending.
Trump's proposal will however be the first blow in a lengthy battle to push through widespread budget reductions in order to finance a huge increase in military spending.
EPA programmes that focus on lead cleanup and grants to aid Native American tribes will face heavy reductions, with the programme to battle greenhouse gas emissions facing the biggest reduction of 70% to $29m.
The EPA has played a crucial role in curbing the actions of companies who have overstepped the mark in relation to their emissions output.
Most notably, the agency uncovered the Volkswagen emissions cheating scandal, in which the German carmaker had fitted technology to vehicles in order to cheat tests on its harmful substance output.
Trump's plans to cut climate change funding have not gone down well among environmental organisations, with Sierra Club campaign director John Coequyt commenting that the cuts will not pass Congress.
"States and Congress won't go for this. They are proposing cutting programs that are connected to jobs in states and programs that address environmental issues," Coequyt said.
Markets in Asia finished lower on Friday, taking their cue from a red session overnight in the US as markets looked to price in the increasingly high risk of a rate rise from the Federal Reserve by the end of the month.
Japans Nikkei 225 lost 0.49% to 19,469.17, with banking stocks now on the back foot, as Mitsubishi UFJ lost 0.59% and Mizuho was 0.33% softer.
The yen strengthened against the greenback during the session, though it pared back slightly after hours and was last 0.04% weaker at JPY 114.15 per $1.
That led to a drop in the share price of some of the major exporters, with Mitsubishi Electric down 1.01% and Toyota off 0.23%.
On the mainland, the Shanghai Composite was down 0.34% at 3,219.18, while the smaller tech-focussed Shenzhen Composite was up 0.21% at 2,001.90.
South Koreas Kospi was down 1.14% to 2,078.75, with geopolitical tensions between China and South Korea reportedly rising.
The countrys retail sector suffered, with Hyundai Department Store off 3.37%, Lotte Shopping finishing down 0.93% and Shinsegae losing 4.92%.
Those falls came after reports emerged late on Thursday that a cyber attack originating from a Chinese IP address brought down the Lotte Duty Free website.
The attack came soon after Lotte International gave the go-ahead for a land swap, to allow the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defence System to be built on its now former property, in direct response to the missile threat from North Korea.
Reports in Seoul also told how Chinese authorities had ordered tour operators in that country to halt the sale of trips to South Korea, as a response to the US defence deployment.
Down in Hong Kong, the Hang Seng Index finished down 0.74% at 23,552.72.
Oil prices were slightly higher during late trading in Asia, with Brent crude last up 0.47% at $55.34 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate adding 0.34% to $52.79.
Australias S&P/ASX 200 lost 0.81% to finish at 5,729.60, with almost all subindexes closing the day in the red.
The weighty financial subindex was down 0.71% as most bank stocks dropped, with Australia and New Zealand Banking Group down 0.57%, Commonwealth Bank of Australia losing 0.79%, National Australia Bank off 0.93% and Westpac Banking Corporation 0.96% softer.
Gold miners were also lower in the sunburnt country as a stronger dollar pushed gold prices down.
Alacer Gold was off 5.16%, Evolution Mining lost 5.09% and Newcrest was 2.99% lower.
In New Zealand, the S&P/NZX 50 was off 0.2% to 7,160.86, led lower by subscription broadcaster Sky - unrelated to its London-listed namesake - the worst performer, down 2.7% a week after its proposed merger with Vodafones New Zealand operations was denied by the local competition regulator.
Manuka honey and health products exporter Comvita was the winner of the day adding 2.4%, while dairy products and infant food manufacturer A2 Milk was up 1.3%.
The down under dollars were both weaker, with the Kiwi last losing 0.54% to NZD 1.4237 against the greenback and the Aussie weakening 0.23% to AUD 1.3236 per $1.
Over a third of British manufacturers see no benefits to the government's proposed apprenticeship levy, a survey of the industry has found.
Many manufacturers see the apprenticeship levy -- where about companies with a payroll of 3m or more, which represents roughly the largest 2% of UK businesses, will from 6 April will be required to invest 0.5% of this payroll into the government's apprenticeship scheme -- as a tax on business, according to industry body the EEF.
The organisation said that although manufacturers were warming to the levy, with a quarter of those surveyed by the EEF believing it will increase the quality of apprenticeship and a further quarter expecting it to attract more young people, they have reservations about its viability and long-term prospects.
The levy will come into effect on the first day of the new tax year and the government hopes it will increase the number of apprenticeships in England to three million by 2020. Businesses that pay the levy will still have access to government funding to go towards costs for apprenticeships.
The report by EEF and Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking surveyed 114 senior company executive in the manufacturing and engineering sector and found that 75% are worried they will not get back what they put in.
While 61% were concerned about cost, half of those surveyed were concerned about the timescale to implement the levey and 44% had apprehensions over the uncertainty about the future rule and rate changes to levy.
However, EEF said that manufacturers that operate across the UK with employees in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland would lose out on funding because of an incompatibility between the levy and devolved skills policy across the country.
EEF chief executive Terry Scuoler said: Clearly the apprenticeship levy has the potential to bring benefits, but not enough to outweigh our sectors reservations. With skills such a high priority these fears are entirely understandable and must be swiftly addressed.
This report confirms that the apprenticeship levy remains a work-in-progress and must be treated as such - it requires further refining and we would urge the government to continue to engage with business in order to make some much-needed improvements.
But some were positive about the levy as 26% believed that it will increase the responsiveness of providers to deliver relevant training and 29% said they would be better able to buy the training their business really needs.
Amid doubts about the viability of the levy, EEF has called for an independent employer-led review of the roll-out of the levy by the end of 2018.
Dave Atkinson, UK head of manufacturing at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said manufacturers are firmly behind apprenticeships in securing business skills to drive productivity growth and have a long track record of providing high quality apprenticeship opportunities that lead to long-term careers, very often with the same employer.
But he stressed that it was important that the apprenticeship levy builds on this by supporting manufacturers training ambitions and acting as an enabler so that many more feel able to offer these valuable and aspirational roles.
BritVic , the owner of Robinson's juices and a bottler for PepsiCo brands, has completed the 56.8m acquisition of Brazilian drink firm Bela Ischia Alimentos.
Following the completion of the due diligence process, the FTSE 250 drinks company bought Bela Ischia for 218m Brazilian reals in order to strengthen BritVic's brand portfolio and distribution footprint in the country as the acquisitions complements its existing assets in Sao Paulo and the north east.
BritVic expects the acquisition to generate at least 10m Brazilian reals of cost from joint efficiencies in procurement, production, logistics and administration.
However, about 3.5m of exceptional costs will be incurred this year due to the acquisition and integration of Bela Ischia.
Bela Ischia generated revenue of 160m Brazilian reals and earnings before interest, tax depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of 18.5m Brazilian reals in 2016.
Phil Carroll, analyst at Shore Capital, said: "As we have stated previously, whilst not having any prior knowledge of Bela Ischia as a business but taking into account its strong brand position in certain important geographies, we see this as a sensible deal at a reasonable valuation based on revenue (1.4 times historic revenue).
"Assuming a cash/debt neutral position for the business, the enterprise value and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) ratio of 11.8 times is more punchy but we note the opportunity for significant synergies both in costs and revenues and the underlying double digit growth in the business."
Carroll calculated the deal would add roughly 40m of revenue to the group, taking the contribution from Brazil from near 8% to 10% of group revenue, "so not a game changer in any way but we do see this as management once again being pro-active in looking for opportunities to create shareholder value".
Global executive recruitment and professional services group Harvey Nash issued a trading update in advance of its final results for the full year to 31 January on Friday, which it confirmed would be announced on 27 April.
The London-listed firms board said it expected to report adjusted pre-tax profit for the year in line with market expectations.
Overall gross profit increased by 8%, though it dropped 1% on a constant currency basis.
While growth was held back in the UK and Ireland by Brexit uncertainty, the board said gross profit was up by 18% in Mainland Europe , or 4% on a constant currency basis.
The constant currency decline in its Rest of World market was reportedly due to challenging market conditions in Hong Kong, while in Offshore Services it was due to increased costs in Vietnam as a result of the depreciation in the value of sterling during the year, the board explained.
Net cash of 5.5m at the year-end was achieved due to tight control of working capital, the board added, and it confirmed the group held no term debt.
The group has delivered a resilient trading performance despite the significant uncertainty created by the referendum, said chief executive officer Albert Ellis.
Mainland Europe, which accounts for 40% of total gross profit, continued to make satisfactory progress.
Cash flow has materially exceeded expectations with the year ending in a positive net cash position, some 5 million higher than 31 January 2016.
Rio Tinto has appointed Philip Richards as its new group head of legal, replacing Debra Valentine.
Richards, who has been acting in the role since December on secondment from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, where he was a senior partner specialising in corporate law, will be responsible for all group legal services.
Rio said he has extensive experience in governance, corporate advisory and transactional work, including four years running Freshfields' office in Italy, and leading the firm's financial institutions group.
His previous experience includes acting for a broad range of global companies including Barclays, Tesco, Prudential, LSEG, Liberty Global and Swiss Re.
Chief executive Jean-Sebastien Jacques said: Philip has demonstrated in his time with us that his significant almost 40-year experience in legal affairs will be a real asset for our company. He has quickly embraced the strong Rio Tinto culture and I am very pleased to have him join our team."
News that Tanzania had banned exports of gold/copper concentrate has hit the shares of London-listed Acacia Mining , which is the east African country's largest gold miner.
On Friday, the President of Tanzania revealed the directive via a Ministry of Energy and Minerals press release.
Acacia, which has three producing mines in north-west Tanzania, last year generated around 30% of revenues from gold/copper concentrate.
"At this stage, Acacia has ceased exports of gold/copper concentrate and is urgently seeking further clarification from the Ministry of Energy and Minerals," the company said in a short statement.
The company's shares were already moving lower on Friday as the gold price dropped, but after the announcement emerged in London afternoon the shares dropped over 11% to 470.82p.
On Monday there were reports that the ban was part of a government effort to increase domestic beneficiation.
But Investec analysts said Tanzania hardly has the concentrate production to justify its own smelter.
"We expect this issue to be resolved but are concerned it is part of ongoing government attempts for a greater tax grab. ACA has a good balance sheet (cash of US$318m) so is able to withstand a concentrate inventory build-up although not indefinitely."
They noted that as concentrate amounted to 30% of 2016 revenue, or $316m or $26m per month, Acacias $363m decline in market cap on Friday was equivalent to more than an entire year of concentrate losses.
Prime Minister Theresa May has criticised Scottish National Party's drum beating for a second independence referendum to break away from UK as lacking an "economic case".
After last June's referendum, which saw Britain vote to quit the EU, Nicola Sturgeon's party has become increasingly vocal about the need for a new ballot on independence. A referendum in 2014 saw Scotland vote to remain in UK.
Brexit negotiations will begin soon after May triggers Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, which is expected to happen in March.
SNP representatives have said a so-called "hard Brexit" will leave Scotland with no choice but to call another referendum. Scotland voted 62% in favour of the UK remaining within the EU.
"Time and again the benefits of the union, of doing together, collectively, what would be impossible to do apart are clear," said May, speaking at the Scottish Conservative Party Conference.
"Indeed the economic case for the union has never been stronger. There is no economic case for breaking up the United Kingdom, or of loosening the ties which bind us together."
May also suggested that Sturgeon and her party should focus more on improving the livelihood of young Scottish people rather than talking up a referendum.
"As prime minister of the United Kingdom, I am just as concerned that young people in Dundee get a good start in life and receive the education they need to reach their full potential as I am about young people in Doncaster and Dartford," May said.
Sturgeon has argued that many of those Scots who voted to remain part of the UK in 2014 did so on the basis that it would still be a member of the EU, and lambasted the "Westminster diktat" espoused by the British government.
"The Scottish government's approach since the EU referendum has been to offer compromise and to seek consensus at every turn -- in return the UK government's has so far been one of obstinacy and intransigence," Sturgeon said in a statement.
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20% off ferries to France all year
: Source: DFDS Seaways & Polferries
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Q. An estimated five billion lives have been saved by the 105 scientists celebrated on the ScienceHeroes.com website. Can you name any of the top heroes or their discoveries?
A. No. 1 and No. 2 are German scientists Fritz Haber (1868-1935) and Carl Bosch (1874-1940), who developed a synthetic fertilizer that saved some 2.7 billion lives by helping the world grow nutritious food, says the website. Without their discovery, the expansion of the world's population from 1.6 billion in 1900 to over 7 billion today would not have been possible.
. . .
Do you know an outstanding young Donegal person between the age of 18 to 40 who you think deserves recognition for their achievements?
The local branch of Junior Chamber International (JCI) is currently seeking nominations for The Outstanding Young People (TOYP) of the year competition before the Friday, March 10 deadline.
JCI Donegal is part of a global organisation aimed at focusing on leadership, entrepreneurship and active citizenship. The organisation has a strong focus on developing young leaders by involving them in the running of many worthwhile projects which add to, and enhance, community life in Donegal.
The TOYP competition is a drive to identify young people for their dynamism and enthusiasm in their fields. There is a local awards ceremony in which winners will receive a commemorative trophy and be recognised by their peers. After the local awards, the Donegal winners may go on to be recognised nationally and possibly internationally for their achievements. Every year, JCI selects ten outstanding young people under 40 to be recognised for living the JCI Mission in extraordinary ways.
JCI Ireland shone last year with Ciara Judge from Cork bringing a world award back home after being recognised in an awards ceremony in Quebec, Canada. If you know someone who can follow in Ciaras footsteps, there are ten categories under which
nominations can be made, relating to the fields of business, politics, academic achievements, culture, moral/environmental leadership, contribution to children/world peace/human rights, humanitarian/voluntary leadership, scientific/technological development, personal improvement/accomplishment and medical innovation.
fREE TO ENTER
This competition is free to enter. Members of the public are now invited to take some time to show someone they admire and respect what he/she does and believe his/her contribution should be recognised.
Ms Ann-Louise McClintock, President of JCI Donegal, said the local branch is excited to be running the awards for the fourth year in a row.
In 2016 we had two national winners with Nikki Bradley and Seamus McGrory and our local winners were exceptional.
Donegal is full of incredible young people and we are privileged to recognise them, Ms McClintock said.
Send in your nominations now by filling in the online form on www.jciireland.ie/toyp, or email
info@jcidonegal.ie
Entries close on Friday, March 10, at 5pm. Make sure you check out JCI Donegal on facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
The Donegal Democrat has been informed of the following deaths:
- Raymond Taylor, Tullyvinney, Raphoe
- Charlie Roarty, Bunbeg
- Eileen Peoples, Letterkenny
- Breid Boyle, Narin, Portnoo
- Terence McDermott, Ballyshannon
- Archie Smith, Letterkenny
Raymond Taylor, Tullyvinney, Raphoe
The death has occurred of Raymond Taylor, Tullyvinney, Raphoe. Reposing privately at Gibson's Funeral Home, Convoy. Family and friends welcome between the hours of 6pm to 10pm. Funeral Service there on Friday, March 3rd, at 11am and afterwards to Lakeland Crematorium for cremation at 3pm.
Charlie Roarty, Knockastolar, Bunbeg
The death has occurred of Charlie Roarty, late of Knockastolar, Bunbeg, Gaoth Dobhair.
His remains are reposing at his home in Knockastolar. Removal from there to St Mary's Church, Derrybeg for Funeral Mass on Friday, March 3rd at 1pm followed by burial afterwards in Magheragallon Cemetery.
Eileen Peoples, Letterkenny
The death has taken place of Eileen Peoples, 81 The Grange, Letterkenny and formally of 57 Port Road, Letterkenny.
Remains will be reposing at her residence from 5pm on Thursday, March 2nd. Removal from residence on Saturday 4th at 10.20am going to St Eunan's Cathedral for requiem mass at 11 o' clock with interment at Conway cemetery in the family plot.
Family time from 10pm to 10am and on the morning of the funeral.
Breid Boyle, Narin, Portnoo
The death has taken place of Breid Boyle, Narin, Portnoo. Removal from Shovlin's Funeral Home Sandfield on Thursday afternoon, March 2nd, at 3pm, travelling to her late residence.
Funeral from there on Saturday morning at 10.30am to St Conal's Church, Kilclooney for 11am requiem Mass, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. Family flowers only, donations if desired to St Francis Hospice c/o any family member. House private from 10pm until 10am.
Terence McDermott, East Rock, Ballyshannon
The death has occurred of Terence McDermott late of East Rock, Ballyshannon. Mass of the Resurrection on Friday morning at 11am in St. Josephs Church with interment in the adjoining cemetery.
Family flowers only, donations in lieu if so desired to The Rock Nursing Unit Patients Comfort Fund c/o Patrick McKenna Funeral Directors, Ballyshannon.
Archie Smith, Letterkenny
The death has taken place of Archie Smith late of 74 Foxhills, Letterkenny and formerly of Scotland.
His remains are reposing at his late residence. House strictly private on Friday and on the morning of the funeral.
Removal from his home on Saturday morning at 10.30 to St. Mary's Chapel, Derrybeg for funeral service at 12 noon with burial afterwards in Magheragallon Cemetery.
Family flowers only. Donations in lieu to the Donegal Hospice.
* If you wish to have a death notice included, please e-mail: editorial@donegaldemocrat.com and include a contact telephone number for verification.
A 40-year-old Tyrone man suspected of being involved in the murder of a police officer in 2012 was arrested yesterday in Ramelton in an intelligence-led operation.
The swoop - carried out by the gardai with the assistance of the PSNI - saw Damien McLaughlin, a father of two from Dungannon - arrested at around three o'clock this afternoon amid dramatic scenes on Ramelton's famous bridge.
The van in which he was travelling along with a 59-year-old man was boxed in by unmarked garda vehicles with flashing lights.
Mr McLaughlin was taken to a Dublin garda station and is due to appear before the High Court in Dublin on foot of a European Arrest warrant this morning, Friday.
A 47-year-old woman was arrested in Belfast as part of the same operation and was taken to Musgrave Serious Crime Suite for questioning.
Mr McLaughlin is facing four charges in relation to the killing of David Black. The 52-year-old father of two was the first Northern Ireland prison officer to be murdered in nearly 20 years.
He had been on bail since May 2014, but had not been seen for months at an address in Belfast were he had agreed to reside as part of his bail conditions.
The PSNI and gardai had been working closely in relation to his whereabouts, and the gardai made their move yesterday afternoon after learning of his movements in the Ramelton area.
Already today there is a huge exodus from Ardara as up on 200 members of the closely knit community travel to Dublin to see one of their own honoured as the 2016 Donegal Person of the Year in the Regency Hotel on Saturday night.
The recipient of this year's award Stephen Mc Cahill told the Democrat this morning, the whole thing is really all surreal and I suppose it is only beginning to really sink in now.
As I said previously this accolade is for the great community in Ardara, I am only a symbol of the great spirit in this town.
Stephen, who is well known for his daily trips on his bicycle, had the famous two wheeled bike in reserve but perhaps wisely decided on the four-wheeled option for the trip to Dublin!
He added, We are heading up now and as far as I know many from the locality are heading today as well. In Ardara we like to celebrate whether at home or away!
No doubt there will be some great yarns and craic around the Harcourt and Cassidys pub this evening.
The man charged in connection with the murder of a Northern Ireland prison officer in 2012 who was arrested in Ramelton on Thursday afternoon appeared this morning at the High Court in Dublin on foot of a European Arrest Warrant.
Damien Joseph McLaughlin (40), with an address at Glenties Rd, Belfast, was arrested with another man by a member of the Special Detective Unit in an operation carried out by the gardai with assistance from the PSNI
Mr McLaughlin is wanted by the authorities in Northern Ireland to face allegations that he aided and abetted in the murder of David Black on November 1st, 2012, and was in possession of an article suspected of being for the commission of the act of murder.
Prison officer David Black (52) was shot dead on the M1 motorway by dissident republicans as he drove to work in Maghaberry jail.
Mr McLaughlin is also charged with engaging in conduct in preparation for acts of terrorism and of being a member of a proscribed organisation.
Detective Sergeant Padraig Boyce, of the Special Detective Unit, told counsel for the State Fiona Murphy BL on Friday that he arrested Mr McLaughlin on Thursday in Donegal.
He said that he asked the accused man if he was Damien McLaughlin.
Mr McLaughlin nodded, the court heard.
The detective cautioned the man and he replied that he wanted to speak to his solicitor.
He was conveyed to Letterkenny garda station and shown a copy of the European Arrest Warrant.
The detective read over a summary of the offences and asked the accused man if he knew what they were about, the court heard, and Mr McLaughlin said that he did.
Under cross-examination, Det Sgt Boyce told David Leonard BL, for Mr McLaughlin, that the accused man was a passenger in a vehicle when arrested.
The court heard that Mr McLaughlin was dragged out of the car, and his legs were crossed and cable-tied.
Det Sgt Boyce did not agree with the barrister that Mr McLaughlin had been treated with more force than necessary.
He was "dealt with in a prompt and appropriate fashion" and "not treated with any more force than necessary", the detective added.
Mr Leonard submitted to the court that excessive force was used and that "either disregard or insufficient weight was placed on the presumption of innocence".
In these circumstances the arrest was invalid, he said.
Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly rejected the application. She said that Mr McLaughlin is accused of offences of terrorism.
"It is also alleged that he had been released on bail in Northern Ireland and he failed to abide by the conditions of his bail," she said.
She added that it is important gardai carry out risk assessments before arresting somebody and that she did not consider that excessive force was used or that there was a breach of the presumption of innocence.
Mr McLaughlin was remanded in custody until March 20th, when his case is listed for mention again.
Could you use $763? The IRS could have that much or more just waiting for you.
It's yours as long as you don't miss the 2013 tax return tax deadline.
Photo by 401(k) 2012 courtesy Flickr Creative Commons
Nope, that's not a typo. More than 1 million taxpayers didn't file their federal returns three years ago and that oversight has left the Internal Revenue Service holding more than $1 billion in unclaimed refunds.
If some of that money is yours, the IRS wants to send it to you.
But you have to ask by filing a 2013 Form 1040 (or 1040A or 1040EZ). And you must get your three-year-old return to the tax agency by this filing deadline, which falls this year on April 18.
If you don't file for your unclaimed refund by that date, then by law the U.S. government gets to keep your money.
Smallest, biggest possible checks: Of the $1.06 billion sitting in the U.S. Treasury, the median amount of tax year 2013 unclaimed refunds is $763. That means that half of the checks will be less than that, but half will be more
The smallest median potential refund amount is $619. That amount goes to Idaho nonfilers in 2013.
Other states where late filers could get $600 or more are Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Utah and Wisconsin.
I don't know about you, but I wouldn't refuse more than 600 bucks!
Alaska and Wyoming residents are at the top end of 2013's unclaimed refunds. Both state's break the $900 mark, with the Last Frontier's median refund from three years ago hitting $917 and the Cowboy State's median unclaimed tax check is close behind at $911.
Now I definitely wouldn't turn down almost a grand from Uncle Sam.
Most negligent, diligent filers: As for actual amounts of nonfilers three years ago, my fellow Texans are once again the least diligent filers. There were 104,700 of us in 2013 who didn't send the IRS a tax return.
Now I know there are lots of tales about all the rich ranchers and oil rig owners in my native Lone Star State. Thanks, J.R.
But that's a myth. There are more of us who definitely could use any and all amounts of unexpected cash.
Overall, my nonfiling neighbors account for almost $116 million in tax year 2013 unclaimed refunds. If these Texans get their filing acts together by April 18, they could be the owners of one of the state's potential median refund checks of $829.
Vermont also was a repeat winner, relatively speaking, as the home to the most conscientious tax filers. Just 2,000 folks there failed to fill out a refund-producing federal tax return three years ago.
The Green Mountain State's total unclaimed refund amount from 2013 is almost $1.9 million, with a median potential refund of $747.
Yes, I know that there are a lot more people living in Texas than in Vermont, so the raw numbers are not necessarily the best number to use in gauging federal tax filing habits. But those are the figures the IRS provides.
You can see where your state stands in the ol' blog's special web page showing the state-by-state breakout of 2013 tax year unclaimed refunds.
Why folks don't file: Sometimes people get busy and simply don't get around to sending their returns to the IRS. Others think their refund is too small to mess with filing a 1040. (If that's you, let's talk!)
Some people don't even know they might be due a refund. That's why even if you aren't legally required to do so, it's sometimes a good idea to file a tax return anyway.
Whatever the reason, the IRS wants you to come and get your cash and soon.
"People across the nation havent filed tax returns to claim these refunds, and their window of opportunity is closing soon," said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen.
And if you're still hesitant to file now because you're worried about facing sanctions for not filing a return three years ago, don't be.
"Remember," noted Koskinen, "there's no penalty for filing a late return if youre due a refund."
Three-year window closing: But you have to do so by April 18.
The deadline is not just the IRS setting a time. It's the law, which says that if no return is filed to claim a refund within three years, the money becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury.
Since 2013 returns were due in April 2014, that three-year filing window closes forever on 2017's tax due date.
By then, 2013 forms must be filled out -- by hand as there's no e-filing of old returns -- properly addressed, and in the U.S. Postal system in time to be postmarked by April 18.
You can download prior year tax forms and instructions at IRS.gov's forms and publications page or call toll-free 1- 800-829-3676.
If you need old W-2, 1098, 1099 or 5498 forms to fill out your 2013 tax return, request copies from your employer, bank or other payer. If you can't get these documents that way, try the IRS' Get Transcript Online tool to obtain a Wage and Income transcript. You also can file Form 4506-T to request a transcript of 2013 income and use that information to file the old tax return.
Also double check that you filed your taxes for the 2014 and 2015 tax years. If you didn't, your belated 2013 refund claim might be held.
In addition, your old refund amount could be reduced if you owe any amounts to the IRS or other federal agencies, such as for a student loan, as well as have debts to a state tax agency for such things as unpaid child support.
Annual issue: As unbelievable as it may sound, unclaimed tax refunds are common. I've been writing about this tax phenomenon as long as I've been blogging.
You can see what the numbers were in prior years in my previous posts on nonfilers due refunds
And if in 2013 you lived in a state that has an income tax, chances are that if you overlooked your IRS filing, you also missed sending in your state return. Check with your state tax department about what you need to do about that oversight.
The extra (and old!) tax-filing effort could be quite rewarding.
Students of Enterprise State Community Colleges first graduating class, the Class of 1967, relived some of their most memorable moments on the campus during a luncheon for their 50th Homecoming celebration on Monday, February 27, 2017.
The luncheon was hosted by the Colleges Interim President, Dr. Vicky Ohlson. In attendance were 12 graduates and five instructors from the inaugural class. Dr. Joseph Talmadge, who served as the Dean of the College from 1965 to 1981 and the President from 1981 to 1994, was the keynote speaker.
Dr. Talmadge regaled the crowd with stories of improbable success in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles during the colleges infancy.
Dr. Talmadge credited the success of the college to the determination and creativity of the administration and faculty who could pull together and provide for the students using very limited resources.
ESCC Associate Dean of Students Dr. Kevin Ammons followed Dr. Talmadges speech with a presentation on the birth and history of the college.
It was incredible as an employee of the college and a former student to hear the stories of those first days, said ESCC Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning Andrew Davis. I think its a testament to the impact that a few competent, passionate people can have on a community and that legacy certainly lives on today at ESCC.
George Landingham, a member of the Class of 1967, said that this was the first time he had been back on ESCC campus in 50 years.
My wife and I had not been back on the campus since we graduated 50 years ago and our memories were refreshed of the great time we spent there, Landingham said. It was wonderful seeing some old classmates and former faculty.
It made me remember that Enterprise State Junior college gave me all the foundation I needed to go on to Auburn University and from there to a successful career. The college truly changed the course of my life.
Roy and Beverly Powell, graduates of the Class of 1967 who are now married and live in Samson, said it was great being back on campus as well.
It was enjoyable to be back on campus and to see our classmates and several of the professors who were there, Beverly said. The college opening when it did was unbelievably good for all of us who were graduating from high school at that time.
A lot of us probably would not have been able to have gone to a four-year school because of the cost in it. It was just a blessing to all of us to have such a wonderful experience with the amazing faculty that Dr. Talmadge had assembled.
Dr. Ohlson said that having the first graduating class back on campus after 50 years was a wonderful experience and reminded her of how great an impact the college has on the lives of its students, giving them the opportunity for a first-class college education close to home and at a fraction of the cost for the same courses at a state university.
Ohlson said that she is looking forward to having the Class of 1967 back on campus for this years graduation ceremony, where one of their own, Bill Carr, an extremely successful local entrepreneur and CEO of the 21st largest CPA firm in the nation Carr, Riggs and Ingram will deliver the commencement address.
Anyone who attended ESCC in the past and who is interested in becoming part of the ESCC alumni organization should contact Andrew Davis at the College alumni@escc.edu or 334-347-2623, ext. 2309.
Jurors are expected to start hearing opening statements next week in what will be the second trial for Ariton man, Willie James Dickerson, in the death of Willie David Pugh. Dickersons first trial was declared a mistrial after a hung jury was declared after almost six hours of deliberation over a two day span.
Jury selection is set for Monday morning at the Russell County Courthouse in Phenix City according to Barbour County District Attorney Ben Reeves. I look for the jurors to start hearing opening statements by Monday afternoon, Reeves commented.
Circuit Court Judge Albert. L. Johnson will preside over the trial for a second time, having taken the case after Barbour County Burt Smithart recused himself from presiding over Dickersons case in an effort to avoid the appearance of impropriety after being accused of illegal actions regarding the case by an internet blogger.
It took three years after his arrest for Dickerson to have his first trail in June of 2015, and after the resignation of several lawyers, he will go back to court next week to face a reduced charge of Murder instead of Capital Murder. A new attorney, Connie Cooper from Phenix City will represent Dickerson during the upcoming trial.
Dickerson was arrested by Barbour County Sheriffs officers in the death of Clio man, Willie David Pugh, on May 23, 2012, and charged with capital murder while incarcerated in the Houston County Jail on unrelated charges of two counts of second-degree sodomy and a single felony count of second-degree rape.
The victim, Pugh, who was 26 year-old at the time of his death, disappeared January 14, 2012, after dropping his girlfriend off at a relatives house in Clio to run a couple errands. When he failed to return, the girlfriend began looking for him. He was officially reported missing on January 15.
The vehicle Pugh had been driving was located approximately 500 yards from Dickersons residence in the Doster community in southern Barbour County on January 15, behind an abandoned mobile home. A search of the car conducted by investigators with the Barbour County Sheriffs Office turned up the victims bloody clothing inside the car.
An intense search for Pugh that involved multiple law enforcement agencies, search and rescue teams and volunteers was called off over a week later due to no evidence of the mans location being found, but within a couple days an individual found the body of Pugh.
The victim was located in a wooded area off of Sutton Dairy Road on January 24, 2012, and transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Montgomery for an autopsy. The autopsy revealed the victim died from stab wounds and blunt force trauma.
Dickerson has been out on bond since the end of the first trial, as Judge Johnson downgraded the charged against Dickerson, making him eligible for bond.
A Dale County man originally charged with murder, and who subsequently pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide, will serve his sentence through community corrections.
Circuit Judge P.B. McLauchlin sentenced James Hunter Jackson on Thursday to 12 months in jail to be served through community corrections. Hunter was charged in the 2014 shooting death of Anthony Roberts at the Holiday Village Mobile Home Park on Rucker Boulevard near Enterprise.
District Attorney Kirke Adams told the Dothan Eagle in January that the criminally negligent homicide plea was offered in part because of the wishes of the victims family and because there was no evidence the killing was intentional.
Hunter was also assessed a $2,500 fine and various court costs totaling more than $1,000. A restitution matter is pending in civil court.
In its nascence, every new presidential administration begins, it seems, with an overwhelming distraction hanging overhead. Bill Clinton had Whitewater. George W. Bush, nine months in, had 9/11 shape his legacy.
Now it appears more and more that Russia has become Donald Trumps grizzly bear. Questions about Russia toppled President Trumps choice for National Security Advisor, Michael Flynn, after information emerged linking Flynn to the Russians prior to Inauguration Day. Now information has come to light suggesting that Alabamas native son Jeff Sessions, the new administrations Attorney General, had conversations with a Russian ambassador, although he testified before the U.S. Senate that he didnt have communication with the Russians, when asked if about any member of the Trump campaign having communication with the Russians during the course of the campaigns.
On Thursday, Sessions took the high road, announcing his recusal from any potential investigation related in any way to the campaigns for president of the United States, and reiterated strongly that conversations with the Russian ambassador were not in contradiction to his testimony.
Partisan backlash is to be expected. Many Democrats called for Sessions to step down, and GOP lawmakers response was more measured, suggesting that he withdraw from any Department of Justice investigation. Thats the more prudent course, and we commend AG Sessions for responding quickly, and stepping aside in the best interest of the American public. While much of what goes on in Washington is borne of partisan bickering, theres no doubt that the interest of the nation should take priority.
We encourage Sessions, from a position of influence, to urge a swift investigation into every allegation involving foreign influence into U.S. government, regardless where it might lead.
America deserves the truth, and those who may be unfairly suspect should see their names cleared.
Ferrari has released a short film that pays tribute to the beauty of the Australian outback.
Part of an international series starring the California T, Night Into Day depicts the brand's classically-styled convertible in Sydney and the bush.
Shot near Broken Hill by an Australian ream led by Benjamin Gartland, the minute-long production is the result of several months' work.
Broken Hill mayor Darriea Turley says she is "absolutely thrilled by the outcome".
"Broken Hill has exceptional beauty and that's something the Australian team was able to capture in their imagery," she says.
"This will have a global impact on our image."
Ferrari Australasia chief executive Herbert Appleroth says the work highlights the diverse array of Australia's driving environments.
1. What is it?
The latest member of the Volkswagen family to get a special edition named after the company's hometown in Germany.
The formula is the same as before, with VW adding some extras, both mechanical and styling, to make it stand apart from the standard Passat Alltrack.
2. How much does it cost and what do you get?
Priced from $54,990 (plus on-road costs), it is $5700 more expensive than the regular Alltrack.
But the extra money does bring some meaningful goodies. For starters VW has included its Adaptive Chassis Control, which means you can adjust the powertrain and suspension settings across a variety of modes (Comfort, Normal, Sport and Off-Road).
It also gains 19-inch alloy wheels (up from 18s), LED headlights and taillights, darker rear window tint and a hands-free power tailgate that opens with the swipe of your foot under the bumper.
Inside, you get VW's Active Info Display (a fully digital instrument screen), black Nappa leather seats, black headlining, piano black interior highlights and ambient lighting as well as steering wheel gearshift paddles.
It also comes with an exclusive colour option - Crimson Red metallic - or standard options of white or grey metallic.
Home Four wheelers Honda Mobilio Production Ends What Went Wrong For Honda's MPV Dream? oi-Rajkamal
The Honda Mobilio production has come to an end, as demand for the MPV fell. Honda Cars India has stopped manufacturing the vehicle and has exhausted stocks.
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Home Four wheelers Hyundai Creta Crosses Another Milestone oi-Sreejith
South Korean car manufacturer Hyundai has been able to record sales of over 1.5 lakh units of Creta in India. The Hyundai Creta also claimed the title, the Indian Car of the Year in 2016. The popular SUV became the third consecutive car from Hyundai to win the title after the Grand i10 and Elite i20.
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Home Off beat Saudi King's Luggage Is 500 Tonnes Of Royal Opulence And Includes Two Limos oi-Rajkamal
Kings from the middle east are rich, like King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud, who is in Indonesia on an official trip. Unlike a regular traveller, the King has brought along with him some goodies, that will blow your mind away.
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OnePlus 5/ OnePlus 4 reportedly might retain its name as OnePlus 5 on its launch. The Chinese flagship phone will reportedly feature a glass and metal body. OnePlus is rumored to jump straight to OnePlus 5 naming ditching the OnePlus 4 branding as the number "four" considered unlucky in China.
According to Mobipicker, OnePlus 5 might feature a glass and metal body. With this feature, it is considerably noticeable that the OnePlus is heading towards a square off with the Samsung Galaxy S8. This would also mean that the affordable price consumers recently look forward to might be dropped in view of this feature, as glass and metal body does not come cheap.
However, a glass and metal finish on a smartphone could also mean that OnePlus 5 might support Qi wireless charging feature. If this speculation is true, then it might underwrite a higher release price at launch.
OnePlus 5 is also said to sport a Ceramic body just like the Xiaomi Mi MIX. On chipset side, the reports claim that the OnePlus may wait for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor.
Inside OnePlus 5 might feature 6GB RAM with 64GB internal memory and will run on the latest Android 7.0 Nougat. The device is also said to support USB Type-C for connectivity.
On the camera front, OnePlus 5 will have a 16MP front camera along with a 23MP rear camera. The device will pack a 4000mAH battery that will support company's Dash Charge technology for fast charging, according to Indian Express.
When OnePlus entered into the smartphone market, it gave users an absolute steal of a smartphone with a very affordable price. However, there is still no information about official launch date or pricing on the OnePlus 5. Of course, the details need to be taken with a pinch of salt as its authenticity can't be verified directly from the OnePlus.
It has been two months since the Android 7.0 Nougat update for the Moto G4 and Moto G4 Plus rolled out in India, and now Moto is bringing that same update to United State users. However the update also includes the old December 2016 Android security patch.
According to Republic Wireless, Motorola has started an Android 7.0 Nougat soak test for the Moto G4 and Moto G4 Plus, so it may start a nationwide rollout soon. It looks like the update, with build number NPJ25.93-13, will include the rather old December 2016 Android security patch, despite the fact that we're now in March 2017.
Motorola's official support page for the update shows that, they will include some exact additions just for Moto G4 and Moto G4 Plus devices. One is a way to shrink the screen with just a swipe that can be enabled by opening the Moto app, then tapping on "Actions" and then finally by tapping "Swipe to shrink the screen".
The other feature which is coming with the Nougat update is just for the Moto G4 Plus. The feature will allow G4 Plus owners to disable and enable locking the phone's screen when it is on and when they touch the phone's fingerprint sensor, according to Android Police.
Both Moto G4 and Moto G4 Plus can right now be bought unlocked in the US, being compatible with most relevant carriers. The two smartphones will soon be outshined by the brand new Moto G5 Plus, which should hit shelves in the coming weeks. Moto G5 and Moto G5 Plus will be running Android Nougat out of the box.
You should also keep in mind that this update is likely to be a large one, so you will want to use your Wi-Fi connection to download it. The Moto G4 or Moto G4 Plus should have at least a 50 percent charge before downloading and installing the update and it also takes up to 20 minutes for it to complete the install process. Yaou can also manually check your device's Settings menu and then choose about phone, and finally System update to see if the update is ready to be downloaded to your phone.
Deep Water Energy is about to install its first underwater hydropower Oryon Watermill on the Suriname River, near the village of Duwatra. The 30 kW off-grid power station will generate enough electricity to support the inhabitants of a total of three villages.
Installation is planned for July this year and, once fully operational, it will be passed on to the local population to replace the current polluting diesel generators.
The selected location on the Suriname river.
Suitable location
DWEs international sales manager Dolf Pasman and business partner Jaap Ory started talks on the project with the responsible Suriname government departments in January 2012.
The talks led to the choice of an off-grid location and recently the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) decided to support the project financially.
Increase of electrical output
The Oryon Watermill is an underwater construction consisting of a housing that directs the flow of the river water to a turbine.
The water pushes the turnable blades on one of the three wings that are connected to a vertical axis.
A special funnel shaped housing can accelerate the river water up to 80 percent, increasing the electrical output.
Lowering of the Oryon Watermill at the demonstration location at Ulft, the Netherlands in 2014.
Demonstration
DWE placed its first Oryon Watermill in the forced water of a weir at Ulft, the Netherlands, in 2014. Here the fish-friendliness and the actual power generation were tested.
This installation also served as demonstration location for interested parties to observe the performance of the watermill. The location has been visited by delegations from the Philippines and Suriname.
Growing interest
Dolf Pasman and Jaap Ory see a growing interest for their watermill all over the world: We receive new requests for information and quotations almost on a daily basis.
They realise these requests will not lead into orders straight away. We are talking about long and complicated processes. But this year we expect first substantial orders, said Pasman and Ory.
This news item was originally published on the website of Deep Water Energy.
Read also on this website
Unesco-IHE and RIVM trained management Suriname Water Company on Water Safety Plans, 9 January 2017
Conservation International Suriname halts coastal erosion with permeable dams of poles and bamboo, 21 June 2016
World Fish Migration Day 2016: Helping hydropower into the 21st century, 24 May 2016
Country: Suriname
More information
Deep Water Energy
Arnhem, the Netherlands
+31 26 20 20 299
www.oryonwatermill.com
Video presentation on the functioning and the numerous applications of the Oryon Watermill.
Testing of the Oryon Watermill on its fish-friendliness and constant and high return in Ulft, the Netherlands.
Mobile recruitment platform Found has closed its most recent funding round, bringing its total funding to $2.5 million. Red Bull Holden Supercars owner Roland Dane, Dimmi founder Stevan Premutico and MYOB CEO Tim Reed have come on board as investors, with the latter two joining Founds advisory board.
Established by Andrew Joyce and Peter Marchiori in 2015, the Sydney-based start-up enables job seekers to instantly apply for jobs on their mobile phone with a single tap, without having to prepare CVs, cover letters or email.
The co-founders will use the proceeds to improve the companys proprietary talent algorithms and support the rollout of the Found Talent employer platform, built specifically to connect larger employers and recruiters with mobile job-seekers.
Joyce spoke to Dynamic Business about Founds success to date and its approach to engaging investors.
Dynamic Business: How did you select your investors?
Joyce: Both Tim and Stevan are true experts in the Australian tech scene. Theyve both run (and grown) material players in the Australian market, and understand what it takes to build a business that spans a large part of the Australian small-business market. I also know them both personally, and am very excited about having them on the Advisory board.
Separately, Ive known Roland for some time hes an exceptionally successful guy in everything that he does, and has a track-record of again building and running high performing businesses all around the world. He also has one of the best business brains that Ive come across, and is a great supporter of what were doing at Found.
Our other investors (who want to stay private at this stage) include a major family office, current and former private equity executives, senior partners at global management consulting and big-four accounting firms, and a range of people whove been successful entrepreneurs and business-people in the own right. Its a great group, that Im both exceptionally flattered and excited to have involved in Found.
Dynamic Business: What attracted these investors to the business?
Joyce: Every one of our investors has at some stage been in the position of needing to hire staff and they can all relate to the pain that this causes businesses of all size every day around Australia. Many of them also have children, and so have first-hand understanding of the transition to mobile, and the changes in behaviour this is driving.
Dynamic Business: what support will they provide moving forward
Joyce: Given the breadth of our investor base, we have access to extensive professional networks, expertise in all aspects of scaling the business as we require it, as well as a great perspective on the pain-points and problems experienced by businesses looking to hire staff.
Dynamic Business: What does the latest capital raise say about Found?
The capital raise validates Founds business model, demonstrates market faith in the changing behaviour of modern job seekers, and the need for employers to evolve the way that they find and hire staff.
How would you qualify the companys success to date?
In the 12 months since launching, weve gone from a standing-start, to now being one of the major players in the Australian jobs market. Through the latter half of 2016 we were consistently one of the top three jobs-apps on the iOS app store (along with Seek and Indeed), and every month were processing over 200,000 job applications. Our apps have been downloaded over 250,000 times, and were consistently ranked by our candidates as the #1 most useful jobs platform in the market.
Seventeen businesswomen were inducted into the Businesswomens Hall of Fame this week. Now in its 19th year, the initiative celebrates female business owners, including social entrepreneurs, who are not only trailblazers in their industries but role models for other women.
The Businesswomens Hall of Fame was developed by Suzi Dafnis, the founder and CEO of HerBusiness a national community of 30,000 business owners.
The initiative recognises women business owners who are industry leads, champions of the community and quite achievers who are working towards creating great impact in business and in their customers lives, Dafnis told Dynamic Business.
Inductees are nominated for the Businesswomens Hall of Fame by alumni, industry and business groups and the HerBusiness advisory board. A highly-respected selection panel, which features a diverse group of women in business, past inductees, government and industry representatives are responsible for the selection process and review each year.
Dynamic Business spoke to five of the 2017 businesswomens Hall of Fame inductees about the secrets to their success, key motivators, challenges overcome and lessons learned. We put questions to:
Bronwen Healy , 2014 Australian of the Year finalist (QLD) plus founder and CEO of Hope Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation helping women wanting to be free from addiction and prostitution.
, 2014 Australian of the Year finalist (QLD) plus founder and CEO of Hope Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation helping women wanting to be free from addiction and prostitution. Emily McWaters , founder and CEO of the SOL Group (Gifts Australia) , an online giftware marketplace boasting five gifting websites. [See also: From rundown cafe to e-commerce giant: the rise and rise of Sol Groups Emily McWaters]
, founder and CEO of the , an online giftware marketplace boasting five gifting websites. [See also: From rundown cafe to e-commerce giant: the rise and rise of Sol Groups Emily McWaters] Kim Liddell, founder and managing director of NDEA, a non-destructive excavation services for construction industry.
a non-destructive excavation services for construction industry. Roslyn Campbell , founder of Tsuno, a social enterprise providing disposable, sustainable bamboo fibre sanitary pads.
, founder of Tsuno, a social enterprise providing disposable, sustainable bamboo fibre sanitary pads. Jodie Fox, co-founder and chief creative officer of Shoes of Prey, an online retailer enabling women to deisgn their own shoes.
Dynamic Business: What does this recognition mean to you?
Bronwen Healy: That years of hard work have been worth it. Great things are being achieved by truly incredible women in the NFP sector, so to be considered in their league is an honour.
Emily McWaters: It came as a very pleasant surprise. Running an online business, its easy to create a bubble around yourself. Being recognised like this has allowed us to pause and reflect on our accomplishments.
Kim Liddell: Not only is it an absolute honour and a privilege, its also validation of 12 years of triumphs and challenges in the civil construction industry.
Roslyn Campbell: Its an honour being recognised amongst a diverse line-up businesswomen. It proves hard work and perseverance are valued and that you dont need to be head of a multi-billion-dollar multinational to receive kudos for doing well in business.
Jodie Fox: This years inductees set the bar for their respective industries and fields, so I feel honoured to be counted amongst them. The recognition strengthens our resolve to continue providing women around the world with a unique shopping experience where they can design their own shoes. When we started, no one else did what we were doing (i.e. custom-designed shoes, at scale, in an online retail space) so it wasnt immediately clear whether we were serving a need in the market. Being inducted into the Businesswomens Hall of Fame demonstrates we are. It has also allowed us to consider how far weve come and how much more we can offer.
Dynamic Business: How did you respond to your greatest challenge?
Brownwen Healy: There have been many, including the launch of our Social Enterprise cafe, The LoveWell Project, in 2016. Ive learned to respond by leaning in to my faith and the incredible army of people around me who help The Hope Foundation flourish the Board, our staff, the volunteers, the donors and my husband.
Emily McWaters: Being a self-funded operation, a key challenge for SOL Group has been cash flow. The best decision I ever made was to move away from wholesale and focus entirely on online retail. Because there are multiple revenue streams (e.g. website, eBay, third party retailers, corporate gifting), payment is more consistent and timely. The refocus allowed us to reinvest smartly into the growth of the business.
Kim Liddell: Several years ago, there was a severe downturn in construction, by some accounts the worst the industry had seen in 30 years. To survive trying times, we had to build NDEA into a stronger, healthier company.
Roslyn Campbell: The biggest challenge, especially in the beginning, was striking a work/life balance. I am now settling into making sure that my health and relationships take equal priority, alongside running my business, by being disciplined with work hours, etc.
Jodie Fox: The biggest challenge I faced was right at the very beginning. It was incredibly scary leaving a stable job to create something that hadnt existed before because it meant there was no guidance. My co-founder Mike Knapp gave me advice that I still use to this very day: fail fast. Its easy to feel out of your depth and fall into the trap of trying to make everything perfect when starting a business and forging a new path. Informed decisions involve continuous research and laying the necessary ground but the best way to determine your strengths and weaknesses it to jump straight in youre able to identify, early on, where you need to invest your energy and what youre already doing well.
Dynamic Business: Whats the most valuable lesson youve learned?
Bronwen Healy: I am not alone. I might be the dreamer, visionary and pioneer BUT its the people around me who bring the dream to life!
Emily McWaters: Never ever rest on your laurels. I am fortunate to have a thriving business but weve been bitten once or twice before when weve become complacent. Its not necessarily about being fiercely competitive, its more about always striving to do better and not accepting the status quo.
Kim Liddell: Learn your strengths and weaknesses and then surround yourself with a team of experts, i.e. the right people for the right jobs.
Roslyn Campbell: If you are not physically and emotionally looking after yourself, it doesnt matter how many hours you put into your work it will suffer too.
Jodie Fox: Do everything before youre ready. Regardless of the industry, its always better to act sooner than later and not wait until youre ready. There arent courses that provide entrepreneurs with the lessons you can only learn by doing. You need to dive in, have confidence in your business idea and yourself and do what you love.
Dynamic Business: What key factor has fuelled your success?
Bronwen Healy: Never giving up! Even when times have been tough and its seemed like financial partners and donors have been pulling out left, right and centre weve believed in the vision and mission of Hope Foundation to come alongside women wanting life change, whether its from addictions and/or the sex industry, with the key message: you are loved, valued and created with a purpose. If it worked for me, it can work for them!
Emily McWaters: My two sisters, Amy and Libby, work in the business and together, we set a different trajectory for the business. It was never by design. Three years ago, the stars aligned and I realised we could all contribute in different ways and balance each others skills. Without my sisters, Sol Group would only have excelled at half the rate it has, I believe.
Kim Liddell: Persistence and resilience. Success is a staircase not a doorway.
Roslyn Campbell: The ability to engage a supportive customer base from day one. Without our customers, and the relationships I have formed with them, Tsuno would not be here today.
Jodie Fox: Our customers. From the beginning, we constantly looked to feedback from our customers who were taking the journey with Shoes of Prey to ensure our offering met their wants and needs. Feedback has alerted us to any gaps we need to fill. A perfect example is when we were making a big push into the US market, we realised how cold the weather can get and flats arent going to cut it! We listened and understood the demand from our customers and then launched our customisable boots range.
Dynamic Business: What inspires you to continue leading your business?
Bronwen Healy: The brave and courageous women we support they are CHOOSING life and they inspire me to keep going every day! Witnessing them be loved back to life and finding freedom is a truly remarkable thing!
Emily McWaters: When I first started out in business, my drive was wanting to prove myself I was young and inexperienced but I believed that if anyone could do it, I could. Today, my inspiration comes from an innate desire to achieve and better myself. I really, really want to become Australias leading online gift company.
Kim Liddell: Im motivated to make a positive difference in the world and to inspire and empower others in any path they choose.
Roslyn Campbell: Seeing an idea not only come to life but also start to work gives me such a buzz and I get so excited with every little win, and more determined any time a problem arises. In the end, I am trying to make the business work so I can help send girls in Sierra Leone to school, and the better the business does, the more girls will have the opportunity to change their lives, thats incredibly motivating.
Jodie Fox: Being able to empower women all over the world to design their own shoes inspires me to continue leading and growing the business. Shoes of Prey is all about embracing and feeling confident in your unique style, and I love that we allow women to do that.
Dynamic Business: Where to next for you and your business?
Bronwen Healy: We want to expand. Hope Haven is our drop-in space and we would love to see similar spaces pop-up in all the places across Australia where our women are currently located when there is contact they tend to flourish more. Eventually, wed like retreats for our women called Acres of Hope! One step at a time
Emily McWaters: Weve been focused on innovating our operating model by leveraging core products and infrastructure. Notably, weve created two new websites (now a total of five) and a corporate gifting platform, and weve launching a personalised product range, produced in-house. Our focus this year is to allow each of these new offerings to hit their stride.
Kim Liddell: As we continue to learn and grow we are continually focussed on achieving a better way of doing things. We have some exciting projects in the pipeline, so watch this space!
Roslyn Campbell: Growth! Being a low-value consumer goods brand, I really rely on selling in volume and at the moment Tsuno is doing well but it could be reaching more women all over the world and that is something I am focusing on quite heavily. Finding great retail partners and distributors to sell my product for me all over the world
Jodie Fox: Shoes of Prey is constantly evolving, and were always looking at what we can do to create the best user experience, whether thats launching new products, or evolving our platform. One day, Id like to see Shoes of Prey offer women an on-tap custom design printer. Id like to open my wardrobe, have a screen there thats checked my calendar, the weather and knows who Im meeting, and will print out my shoes while Im in the shower. If Shoes of Prey is just a website in the future, Ill be disappointed. Fashion should be fun and exciting, and the less time spent on having to worry about what youre going to wear, the better!
The news broke on January 20, 2017 that as many as 38 schools could be closed in Michigan, 24 of those in Detroit, due to poor academic performance. Parents in the city, and throughout the state, were understandably stunned, as this announcement represented an abrupt change in the states previous position on school closings:
Gov. Rick Snyders administration has switched its stance on how soon Detroits poorest performing schools can be closed. His administration previously said a massive $617 million Detroit Public Schools bailout legislation prevented officials from closing any of the citys worst schools prior to 2019 because of certain stipulations in the school rescue package.
Those who have paid close attention to Michigan politics will be able to trace the line between the mention of the school rescue package and the influence of our new Secretary of Education, West Michigan billionaire Betsy DeVos. As Ive written about previously, here, Ms. DeVos fingerprints were all over this rescue package:
After years of mismanagement by the Snyder administration, the financial crisis in the Detroit Public Schools could no longer be ignored, and state lawmakers decided that drastic measures needed to be taken. A solution that included a Detroit Education Commission with authority to open and close charters was approved in the state Senate, but was then voted down in the House, due almost entirely to DeVos-applied pressure: At one point, Rep. Henry Yanez (D-Sterling Heights) posted a picture on Facebook of [GLEPs Gary) Naeyaert watching the legislative action from the House gallery. Yanezs post said, The masters watch their minions from the gallery making sure they follow their orders on #DPS bill$. Asked about the post this week, Yanez said, Maybe I am a conspiracy theorist or maybe I just see whats placed in front of me. When I step out in the hallway and I see the people from GLEP and the people from the charter schools I know why theyre there, he added. I think its pretty clear. It became clear that Betsy and Dick DeVos were the major players in the negotiations to replace the Senate plan with a House version that carved out special protections for school choice and charter schools, even going so far as to freeze out a leading Republican senator and Detroits mayor from the deliberations: The role of donors and groups they fund has been so impactful in the ongoing Detroit Public Schools (DPS) debate that one lawmaker involved in the negotiations alleged this week that it was the only factor in a recent House vote. And some are even raising concerns about whos being given the chance to sway lawmakers on the matter. They note that the lead GOP senator on DPS and the mayor of Detroit requested but werent granted the opportunity to present to House Republicans in a closed-door caucus meeting. But the House GOP says that had to do with timing. According to campaign finance disclosures, six of the stakeholders trying to sway the future of education in Detroit and their relatives have given roughly $10 million over the last decade to sitting state lawmakers, their caucuses and their political parties. The contributions have touched just about everyone in the Legislature. The biggest donors have been members of the West Michigan-based DeVos family who are charter school proponents. Over the last 10 years, members of the family have given at least $6.1 million directly to the Michigan Republican Party, about $752,200 to the Senate Republican Campaign Committee and about $1.1 million to the House Republican Campaign Committee. And now, groups the DeVos family supports are urging lawmakers to safeguard charter schools and school choice in whatever DPS solution is reached. Its something House Republicans did when they voted on a package last week. Its crystal clear that had the DeVoses not been opposed to this, it would have had a different future, one source involved in the negotiations alleged.
It would appear that two things are true based on the previous account:
1. The complete lack of accountability with respect to Detroits charter schools is completely attributable to the financial influence of Betsy DeVos and her familys foundations and organizations, such as the Great Lakes Education Project.
2. The DPS rescue package was like throwing a dumbbell to a drowning person. The only thing it did was to exacerbate the problems in DPS schools by unfettered competition and choice by providing even morecompetition and choice.
A reasonable person might wonder at this point how closing schools would help improve them. Well, reasonable persons seem to be in short supply in Michigans school reform community. Consider, for instance, that the states Office of School Reform/Redesign was moved out of the Department of Education and into the Department of Technology, Management, and the Budget in 2015. Why?
Snyder has no direct control over the Michigan Department of Education, which has housed the state reform office since it was created by the Legislature in 2009. The department is run by the soon-to-retire State Superintendent Mike Flanagan, who is hired by an elected State Board of Education. That eight-member board has a strong Democratic majority, unlike the Legislature and governors office, which is controlled by Republicans.
The move garnered the predictable responses from the various stakeholders involved in education in the state. Then-President of the state school board, John Austin, was dubious of the move:
Moving the authority to a state agency with no educational abilities nor mandate will make it harder, not easier to improve educational outcomes for children in chronically failing schools, Austin said. He said it would also undermine the ability of the board, the governors office and the next state superintendent to work together.
Dan Quisenberry from the Michigan Association of Public School Academies, the states charter school booster group, was far more positive about the change:
Its important that we establish policies and take action to hold all schools accountable for their performance, and the governors decision is a step in that direction, Quisenberry said. Our students only have one shot at an education, so its vital that each of them is in a school thats delivering a quality education.
Even other local charter advocates, however, think the charter sector in Detroit is out of control. Excellent Schools Detroit, an education reform organization in the city, characterizes the situation like this:
Detroit has the third largest percentage of charter school students in the country at 37%. However, the ecosystem is chaotic with 32 separate authorizers and lots of operators but brand name operators are glaringly absent.
So, who is responsible for carrying out this draconian plan to close 24 Detroit schools? The Department of Technology, Management, and the Budgets Office of School Reform is led by Natasha Baker, and Ms. Bakers profile looks a lot like the typical fast-track school reformer.
After college, Ms. Baker taught for two years, and then began her dizzying ascent up the education reform food chain. She earned her masters degree from Howard University and then spent two years in New Orleans, post-Katrina, first as a middle school principal and then as the chief academic officer for FirstLine Schools where she oversaw four charters. From there she has rarely spent more than a year or two in any position, working her way up the ladder from principal, to chief academic officer, chief schools officer, school improvement consultant, deputy superintendent, and eventually, state school reform officer.
During this time, Ms. Baker was formulating a rather odd and troubling plan: to develop a public boarding school for black boys in Detroit: Ive done a lot of research on inner-city education, and Detroit has always been on the top of lists of problems with boys of color, she says. Higher death rates, higher illiteracy rates. Her model, such as it is, is based on two wildly different boarding schools: SEED, an inner-city charter boarding school in Washington, DC, and the Cranbrook School, a private college prep boarding school located in the upper middle class Detroit suburb of Bloomfield Hills.
Leaving aside the controversial and disturbing history of boarding schools in the United States, the model itself is extraordinarily expensive and difficult to implement:
Theres no doubt that the school Baker envisions would be an expensive proposition. At SEED, for example, the per-pupil annual cost is about $35,000, according to a New York Times report. Baker says there are feasible ways to reduce that cost, though she didnt refute the estimates. That compares to $7,580 per pupil Detroit charter schools receive from the state. Her school would have to raise funds for the difference. On top of all that, there is the cost of the school itself. For a location, Baker is targeting Southwest Detroit Hospital, abandoned since 1991. On the plus side, the facility is large enough to house and educate the 400 students DCPA would have (100 per each high school grade level). On the downside are the undeniably high renovation costs of turning an abandoned hospital into a school with dormitories, where students would receive three meals a day and be watched over by resident advisers.
The costs dont improve closer to Detroit, where the tuition for room and board for one year at the elite Cranbrook School is $45,200. Ms. Baker didnt seem to have many ideas for where the missing funding might come from.
Without a charter authorization in hand, Baker is having little luck in gaining attention from the philanthropists and grant providers whose support is crucial if something as expensive as a public boarding school is going to be financially feasible. Conversely, charter authorizers are reluctant to green-light a school that lacks secure funding.
In spite of lacking the funding needed to open her proposed boarding school, or even a charter authorizer, Ms. Baker went so far as to apply for a planning grant for $110,000 from the Michigan Department of Education in 2010, when she was working for a charter management company in New Orleans. As is far too common in the charter industry, the grant was approved, Baker received the $110,000, the boarding school never opened, and there was never even a feasibility report submitted to the Department of Education explaining how the money was spent.
Instead of being held accountable by the Department of Education for what was essentially a bad loan, Ms. Baker was hired in 2012 as the Chief Schools Officer for their Detroit Rising College Prep Schools. In 2013, Emergency Financial Manager Roy S. Roberts announced that she had been appointed to the position of Chief Innovation Officer of Charter Schools in DPS.
While Baker seems to have abandoned her plan for an inner-city boarding school in Detroit, she appears to be committed to closing as many of the citys schools as possible, as quickly as possibleperhaps to clear the way for even more charter, private, and religious schools in Detroit in anticipation of Ms. DeVos stated intention of expanding private school voucher programs across the nation.
Predictably, DeVos education reform watchdog group, the Great Lakes Education Project, tried to pour cold water on the criticisms of Bakers plans to close schools. GLEPs executive director, Gary Naeyeart, had the following to say as recently as last August:
The Governors office doesnt foresee the closure of more than 10 schools for chronically being within the states lowest 5 percent performing schools and that any that are closed will be after consultation with local officials (See SRO: No Priority Schools Closing Immediately, 8/17/16). However, the panic that has ensued among local officials has been so pronounced, Austin is calling on Gov. Rick SNYDER to rein her in and get sensible about bringing in resources and additional help to those schools where the students consistently perform poorly on state tests. Because the way he sees it, Bakers goal is to shut down large numbers of public schools so privately run charters can come in to skim profits off Michigan taxpayers to the detriment of the states poorest children.
In retrospect, Naeyaert (who has had more, ummpressing problems to deal with recently) was pretty much spectacularly wrong, and Austin was presciently correct: Bakers plan to close schools was much more far-reaching than GLEP had predicted, and the timeline was moved up by 2 years with zero advanced notice. The result has been to throw thousands of Detroits families into a state of chaos and uncertainty.
Many in Detroits education community are opposed to Ms. Bakers plans.
Alycia Meriweather, the districts interim superintendent, said shes thankful the board is willing to fight to keep our schools open. At the end of the day we are keenly aware that we have to make some improvements, Meriweather said. The management team, Meriweather said, is working around the clock to develop improvement plans for those schools. Within the next 10 days, she said, those plans will be finalized. There are going to be some very different approaches being made, under local control, Meriweather said. I dont work in this district to close schools, Meriweather said. I work in this district and I took this job to improve school Im confident that were going to be able to move that forward.
The states teachers unions also object to the school closing plan, and wonder why state officials havent worked harder to identify the causes for the challenges these schools have faced before turning to the radical solution of mass closings:
First, closing schools without finding out why those schools are struggling isnt a viable long-term strategy, said Steven Cook, Michigan Education Associations president. Why have these schools been struggling for so long? Whats the cause? For many years, MEA has advocated for rigorous educational audits of struggling schools to get to the bottom of why they arent succeeding. Simply closing schools and up-ending the lives of students wont fix any problems if the root causes arent adequately addressed.
Sec. DeVos, Gov. Snyder, and Ms. Baker dont seem to appear troubled by the fact that their approach to school reform is based on untested and unproven business practices more than educational or pedagogicalor even moral or ethicalprinciples, and the decision to close 38 schools is hardly designed to give parents and children more choice. They are playing a cruel game of educational whack-a-mole, indiscriminately shutting down schools across the city without any apparent concern for what these moves will mean for Detroits children.
Detroiter Leyonne Harrell, 29, said he recently moved into a house near Thirkell Elementary-Middle School because the school sits nearby. Now he has to consider the possibility of sending his son Andre, 8, to another school, with Thirkell being among the bottom 5 percent for the past three years.
Its bad because this is the local school for my son, Harrell said. This is like walking distance. Hopefully, well find another school and hope that one wont be another one on the list.
Ms. Baker, on the other hand, seems alarmingly aloof and unconcerned about the effects of her plan on Detroits citizens:
If a parent wants to stay in a chronically failing school, theyre well within their right, Baker said.
Ms. Baker appears not to have learned that there are two purposes for evaluation: accountability (she gets that one), and the improvement of instruction. Focusing on accountability without improving the capacity of schools and teachers to use the results of systematic school evaluation to improve their practice isnt educationits punishment.
When a school is closed, it creates more problems than when your local auto dealer or bank branch closes. While you may have to find a different place to buy a new car or cash your checks, closing a school disrupts an entire community. Closing a school fractures families, scatters colleagues, and damages neighborhoods. Schools are not just places that children go during the day when their parents go to workthey are complicated, complex ecological and social systems that provide spaces for learning communities to develop and flourish. Schools are places where children go to feel safe, and to feel valued. Schools are places full of music, movement, art, critical thinking, food, lively discussions and play. Closing a school is like ripping apart a family. When children struggle in public school, we teach them more, and we teach them harder. We dont punish them for what they dont know. We stay after school, or come in early, and we try new strategies in an attempt to reach them in different ways. We dont close the classroom door. We call home, and talk to their parents to try to find out if there is something happening at home thats getting in the way of their learning. We dont suspend them from school.
Closing a school is punishment, not improvement. Its educational malpractice, and indicative of an intellectually-barren approach to thinking about the problems faced by schools, teachers, and children.
Closing a school is never a viable option for helping communities, schools, and families.
Now, I can think of an educational institution whose closing would improve the quality of education in Detroit and in Michigan: the Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budgets Office of School Reform.
House Republicans plan to keep their repeal and disgrace plan secret until the last possible moment
First, the good news:
Showing up and getting all up in your Representatives grills, especially during Congress recess, left elected officials blown away.
Republicans still cant agree a plan to replace the Affordable Care Act because, according to Politico, the process has been bogged down by policy disputes over issues such as whether there should be refundable tax credits, whether a Medicaid expansion is going to be repealed and how to pay for it.
The ACA keeps getting more popular and even most Republicans dont want to repeal it until a replacement has been announced.
By forcing the GOP to come up with a replacement, we see the cruelty of what the GOP is proposing massive giveaways for the wealthy and abject cruelty for the sick, poor and older Americans, especially individuals ages 55 to 64, whose costs would increase by $5,118 per year. Okay, thats terrible news but its good we know it.
Now, the bad news:
Republicans are determined to go through repeal anyway.
They cannot back down because their donors want the massive tax breaks, $7 million a year for the richest 400 Americans, and their base, 81 percent of all Republicans, want the bill gone.
They can still pass a bill with only Republican votes as long as they do not lose more than 24 votes in the house and 2 votes in the Senate.
Just 3 conservative Senators can kill the bill and Rand Paul, Ted Cruz and Mike Lee are saying they will not vote for anything less than full repeal. So if a bill passes it will be probably the worst possible outcome for America the least generous approach to health insurance possible. Like 2009 but with 20+ Americans about to be stripped of their coverage.
So we have them on the run.
Like, literally. Theyre hiding the bill.
Jonathan Cohn reports:
For now, according to Bloomberg, leaders are planning to make the bill available only to committee members, who will have to view a printout in a dedicated reading room. No copies will be allowed out of the room. Committee rules call for making legislation public no less than three calendar days before hearings, which means that Republicans will have to post a version by 11:59 p.m. on Monday if they want markup to start sometime on Wednesday. But Rep. Chris Collins (R-N.Y.), who sits on the committee, told Bloomberg that the vote might take place before the Congressional Budget Office and Joint Committee on Taxation get a chance to produce formal estimates of the bills effects on insurance coverage and the federal budget.
Theyre going to vote on it without any details on the damage it will do to Americans or the deficit or the health care industry, all things Republicans have recently pretended to care about.
We have to note what a case of fuckery this is.
You know fuckery, right?
You cant miss it these days. Its Donald Trump deporting moms and dads while hiring guest workers to work at his winery and resorts. Its guys who wanted to lock Hillary Clinton up for imagined crimes lying to the FBI. Its Paul Ryan pretending to have a human heart.
The Urban Dictionary defines fuckery as absolute bullshit; utter nonsense; something rather suspicious that can bring forth uneasy, angry and irritated feelings. Shawn Hamilton succinctly notes, It makes a mockery of the very idea of truth.
The House GOP plan absorbs every complaint the GOP made about the passing of the ACA and enacts it as perfect parody designed to reveal how little Republicans care about the words that ooze from their mouths.
Luckily, the bill still has to pass the Senate, where Democrats have some control and Republicans have very thin margins.
Thats when the debate and the real trouble for Republicans begins, Paul Waldman explains:
Right now they cant agree on what a replacement should be, and the disagreements arent minor at all. It isnt as though one group of Republicans thinks there should be a $4,000 tax credit for people to buy insurance, and another group thinks it should be $5,000. The disagreements go much deeper.
Basically the disagreements come down to How much to we screw the poor and blow the rich? And you know which side theyll come down on.
So get your pitchforks ready.
In short:
Stay in your Reps faces and keep calling their local offices this site makes contacting your reps easy as hell.
Democrats need to start focusing on three-to-four huge messages to preserve this law so we can get on to the important work of actually insuring the rest of America. I favor pointing out that repealing the ACA gives the richest 400 Americans a $7 million tax break a year because it blows my bean brain every time I hear it.
Dont ever lose sight of this fight, not even for a day, as Andy Slavitt explained.
We need to focus on all of the wrongdoings of Trumps GOP but even as we focus on his potential collusion with Russia we have to note the bigger point.
What is that point?
Glad you asked.
I think it was me who once said, or wrote, that Trump is A minority president with a negative mandate under a cloud of inscrutable suspicion is pursuing a largely unpopular agenda with possibly irreparable consequences.
He must be stopped.
[Image by Ted Eytan | Flickr]
His first week in office, Pr*sident Trump met with top CEOs from around America and told them the hob-nailed boot of regulation were going to be removed from their neck so they could finally start earning some profits. Were going to be cutting regulation massively, he told them. Now, were going to have regulation, and itll be just as strong and just as good and just as protective of the people as the regulation we have right now.
What does this mean in terms of environmental protections? In a word: #SAD.
Trump has already rolled back an Obama-era protection of streams known as the Office of Surface Minings Stream Protection Rule which was put in place to protect streams that feed rivers that dump into lakes and oceans from coal mining waste. Trump called it a job-killing rule. Environmentalists and those who care about our nations waters call it something quite different.
He has also ordered his new EPA chief to look into getting rid of the Obama administrations Waters of the United States rule:
The Trump administration is moving to roll back an environmental rule intended to define which small bodies of water are subject to federal authority under the Clean Water Act. President Trump signed documents Tuesday directing the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to review the Obama administrations Waters of the United States rule. In doing so, Trump said he is paving the way for the elimination of the rule.
Trump claims the move is to help minimizing regulatory uncertainty. It should also serve to minimize how many streams, rivers, and lakes are free from pollution.
However, the most nefarious move yet appears to be in the making. Trump looks to be poised to slash funding for clean-up of the Great Lakes by a whopping 97%:
The White House is proposing to slash Environmental Protection Agency funding that pays for Great Lakes pollution cleanup by 97 percent, according to a budget document obtained by the National Association of Clean Air Agencies. The potential cuts are part of President Donald Trumps initial 2018 budget proposal, detailed in a U.S. Office of Management and Budget passback to the EPA that outlines drastic cuts to an agency Trump has called a job killer and promised to reduce to tidbits as a candidate. The proposal would virtually eliminate annual Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding, slashing it from $300 million to $10 million among other cuts that would altogether reduce the EPAs total budget by a quarter.
Its worth noting that the Great Lakes contain about 21% of the worlds supply of surface fresh water.
They are also delaying plans to fight an incredibly invasive species the notorious Asian Carp from entering the Great Lakes basin, as well:
The Trump administration has indefinitely delayed release of a long-awaited plan to keep invasive Asian carp from slipping into the Great Lakes after GOP congress members wrote to the president fretting that the plan might disrupt commerce on Chicago-area waterways. U.S. Rep. Bob Gibbs, a Holmes County Republican, was among those who signed the letter. On Feb. 28, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was scheduled to release a draft of a study launched two years ago on potential changes to keep the carp from passing through the Brandon Road Lock and Dam, near Joliet, Illinois, and harming Great Lakes fisheries. But shortly before that deadline, the Corps indefinitely postponed the reports release to allow further coordination between government and non-government stakeholders involved in its evaluation, according to Corps spokesman Allen Marshall.
All of this is, apparently, what Trump sees as good, strong, and protective regulations. It wont be long before hes calling for a repeal of the Lead and Copper Rule because, as anyone (from Flint, Michigan) knows, preventing the powerful neurotoxin lead from entering our drinking water supply is the true cause of our countrys economic stagnation.
Make no mistake, Donald Trump did not have eliminating the clean up of the Great Lakes as one of his campaign pledges. There are going to be some Trump-voting sportsman and recreational users of our nations abundant freshwater who are going to feel betrayed. And they SHOULD feel betrayed. This was NOT was Trump promised. He did NOT promise to make the Great Lakes not great again.
Oh, and if youre cool with polluted water but its the air you care about, hes got his sights on that, too:
One executive order which the Trump administration will couch as reducing U.S. dependence on other countries for energy will instruct the Environmental Protection Agency to begin rewriting the 2015 regulation that limits greenhouse-gas emissions from existing electric utilities. It also instructs the Interior Departments Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to lift a moratorium on federal coal leasing.
Like I said: #SAD.
UPDATE: Trump is also set to roll back fuel economy standards put in place by the EPA under the Obama administration:
The Environmental Protection Agency plans to announce its intent to withdraw final determination on strict fuel-efficiency standards for future cars and light trucks, the latest signal by the Trump administration that it is charting a new course on climate change. [] While automakers struck a 2009 deal with the Obama administration to set the first-ever carbon limits on cars and trucks, many of them now say it will be difficult to achieve these long-term targets given the lower price of gas and Americans preference for sport-utility vehicles. The EPA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration agreed to review the 2022-2025 standards when they set them five years ago, but the EPA concluded in December that no revision was necessary. It finalized the standards a week before Trump took office.
*Donald Trump is the biggest loser of the popular vote ever to win the U.S. presidency.
Facing growing pressure to respond to growing wireless data demands in the U.S. mobile phone market, Verizon finally relented. The company on Sunday announced its own unlimited smartphone option while keeping alternatives open for lighter data users.
Verizons new introductory plan provides unlimited data on smartphones or tablets, along with unlimited texts and phone calls, for US$80 per month. The deal is restricted to customers who sign up for autopay.
The Verizon plan includes HD video streaming, mobile hotspot service, calling and texting to Canada and Mexico, and 500 MB a day of roaming in those countries.
Customers also will have the option of adding a connected smartwatch, GizmoPal or other connected device for $5 a month, or an overseas TravelPass allowing up to 500 MB per day for $10 a month.
Customers will get 10 GB of 4G LTE data per month, and 3 GB after that, the company said. After 22 MB of data usage, Verizon may prioritize customers in the event of network congestion.
Weve built our network so we can manage all the activity customers undertake, said Ronan Dunne, president of Verizons wireless division.
Verizon customers who dont use a lot of data will have other options, including 5G small, medium and large plans, he said.
Bad Business?
Verizon, one of the leading wireless carriers in the U.S., has resisted offering unlimited plans for years last month, it even ran a full page ad touting the fact that it didnt have to so.
Most customers did not need unlimited plans, former CFO Fran Shammo told a Goldman Sachs investor conference last fall, warning that unlimited plan abusers can wreak havoc on your network and hurt cash flow.
All of the competing firms with unlimited plans eventually would show cracks in the armor, as tests showed problems due to the high usage of video under those plans, he also warned.
Verizon claims to have the nations largest 4G LTE network, covering 2.4 million square miles and 314 million people.
Resistance Was Futile
Verizon was forced to react to competing plans because new customers were choosing its competitors and some existing customers were jumping ship, suggested telecom analyst Jeff Kagan.
It was never a matter of it, only when Verizon Wireless would do this, he told the E-Commerce Times.
T-Mobile, considered the market leader in terms of promoting unlimited plans, reported last month that it added 8.2 million net customers in 2016, marking the third year in a row that it added more than 8 million customers.
Told You So
The CEO of T-Mobile took to his familiar practice of throwing shade on Twitter, blasting Verizon for coming late to the party.
OMG. FINALLY. Only took @Verizon 4 years to realize customers dont want limits. #bouttime #yourewelcome https://t.co/KARKmCmRGA
John Legere (@JohnLegere) February 12, 2017
Verizons unlimited plan might be the most expensive ever, Legere also tweeted, and he suggested they might want to include taxes and fees, as T-Mobile does.
Legere returned to social media Monday afternoon to announce that T-mobile would one-up Verizon by throwing in HD video and 10 GB of hotspot data.
6/ Starting Fri, #TMobileONE price includes HD video & 10GB high-speed hotspot data all at no extra charge. AND taxes & fees are included!
John Legere (@JohnLegere) February 13, 2017
The Verizon bashing didnt end with T-Mobile, as Sprint piled on.
Not much we can say to speculate on Verizons decision making, except theyre likely trying to catch up to Sprint, said John Votava, spokesperson for Sprint.
Verizon said time and time again that customers dont need unlimited. Now theyve changed their tune, he told the E-Commerce Times.
The Sprint unlimited plan offer allows customers to get unlimited talk, text and data for $50 per month, Votava said, noting that the deal is available until the end of March.
The Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission on Tuesday issued a joint statement following the FCCs temporary stay of data security regulations.
FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and FTC Acting Chairman Maureen K. Ohlhausen issued the statement to address the FCCs decision, in essence, to overturn rules designed to bolster broadband consumer privacy.
Both chairs had disagreed with the FCCs unilateral 2015 decision to strip the FTC of any authority over broadband providers privacy and data security practices.
Pai was one of the dissenting FCC commissioners, along with Michael ORielly, in last falls 3-2 vote that limited how much of Internet subscribers data companies could sell, share and trade.
The FTC has a long track record of having guarded privacy and security protection online, Pai and Ohlhausen noted, and the decision to remove it from that role did not serve consumers interest.
The stay will remain in place until the FCC is able to rule on a petition that would reconsider privacy rules online.
The federal government should not favor one set of companies over another, especially when it comes to a marketplace as dynamic as the Internet, the agencies maintained.
Winners and Losers
The FCCs recent privacy rulings have been controversial, and staying implementation of those rules likely will trigger more disagreement.
This is, in essence, a restoration of rules that favor Internet providers, said Roger Entner, principal analyst at Recon Analytics.
The new rules were meant to level the playing field for edge providers, including Google, Facebook and Amazon, he told the E-Commerce Times.
However, opponents viewed the new rules as distorting the market, so the losers now are Facebook and Google, and the winners are the ISPs, Entner said.
The negative consequences may not be limited to the tech giants, however.
Internet service providers benefit from this decision, and customers lose, suggested Steve Blum, principal analyst at Tellus Venture Associates.
At least they will if the FTC ultimately applies the same rules to ISPs as they currently do to run-of-the-mill websites, he told the E-Commerce Times.
Fair Competition
The agencies new stance met with enthusiasm from many who do business online.
Staying the data security provision will allow providers to avoid spending a potentially significant sum to retrain thousands of employees across the industry and alter their internal procedures in response to a regulation that might not even be on the books in a few months, said Ryan Radia, regulatory counsel at the Competitive Enterprise Institute.
Subscribers, in turn, will benefit from their provider investing more in services that actually matter to consumers, instead of complying with an unnecessary and legally dubious regulation, he told the E-Commerce Times.
Complying with last falls mandate could have caused irreparable injury to businesses and consumers, Radia maintained.
Privacy Concerns
Central to the rules is the issue of consumer privacy, a concern that is only likely to grow.
Its fine to say that everyone should play by the same rules, but thats only a valid argument if everyone is playing the same game, said Tellus Blum.
Theres a big difference between your ISP and, say, Facebook, which only has the information you voluntarily give it, he pointed out.
Users are the ones who choose to go to Facebook, pick a user name and password, and upload information about themselves, he suggested, but your ISP can see all that too and you should be able to decide whether or not your ISP can use that information.
Regardless of how companies acquire data, Americans should have their privacy protected equally, argued Recon Analytics Entner, and there should be no expectation that privacy will be protected differently by ISPs and edge providers.
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Charles Koch
Although many high-profile economic positions in the Trump administration have been filled with former Goldman Sachs partners, including Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin , Special Adviser to President Steve Bannon and National Economic Council Director Gary Cohn , the Koch brothers influence on the Trump administration should not be underestimated.Cohn just announced senior staff appointments at the NEC, three are former assoictaes of the Koch brothers.Cohn hired DJ Gribbin to oversee the presidents infrastructure policy, a major league position for potential cronyism.Gribbin previously headed the government advisory for Macquarie Capital, a role in which he led advisory teams structuring public-private partnership transactions for governmental clients. He has also worked for Koch Industries and HDR helping clients "develop innovative ways to deliver infrastructure."Brian Blase will oversee health policy at the NEC after working at the Koch-funded Mercatus Center, which has Charles Koch on its board.Geroge David Banks will serve as Special Assistant to the President for International Energy and Environment. He worked at the Koch-funded American Council for Capital Formation and according toalso lobbied for for energy corporations.He also worked as a diplomat for the U.S. State Department and analyst for the Central Intelligence Agency.
Chancellor Thomas Conway Installation Ceremony March 10
While Elizabeth City State University Chancellor Thomas Conway took office in January 2016, on Friday, March 10, 2017, he will be officially installed as the 11th Chief Executive Officer, and sixth Chancellor of ECSU.
The installation ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. in the Mickey L. Burnim Fine Arts Center, Floyd L. Robinson Auditorium. University of North Carolina President Margaret Spellings will lead the installation, while The Honorable J. Carlton Cole will give the oath of office.
Prior to joining ECSU, Dr. Conway was appointed in 2008 to serve as Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff at Fayetteville State University.
He came to Fayetteville State University after his 32 year tenure at North Carolina State University where he served as dean of Undergraduate Academic Programs. His responsibilities included increasing the quality of academic advising afforded to all students; the interpretation, review and revision of academic policy for the University; and, support for efforts by academic programs to develop balanced assessment-based environments for critical decision making. In addition, Dr. Conway, a veteran administrator of student success programs, was charged with developing an institutional framework for NC State's student success efforts.
Dr. Conway holds an undergraduate degree in agricultural education (1971) and a masters degree in guidance and counseling (1976) from NC A&T State University and earned a Ph.D. in counselor education from NC State in 1994.
A native of Louisburg, North Carolina, he is married to the former Mychele Jenkins of Hollywood, Florida, They have two adult children.
(Photo: Helen Putsman / WCC)Veronica Flachier, Ecuador, holds a bottle of water from Jerusalem and a glass of dirty water near Geneva in December 2014.
The Ecumenical Water Network of the World Council of Churches has urged churches and ecumenical organizations in Europe and North America to consider eliminating the use of bottled water due to the its adverse impact on the environment.
The International Reference Group of the EWN after a meeting in Geneva said in a 24 July statement that the use of bottled water is an impediment to realizing the human right to water.
It cited research reports that bottled water wastes fossil fuels in production and transport.
Rather than being recycled, about 75 percent of the empty plastic bottles end up in landfills, lakes, streams and oceans, where they may never fully decompose.
The EWN argues that many times governments shun their responsibilities to provide safe drinking water to the poor through their water distribution system, because people have the alternative of "bottled water."
The availability of bottled water allows the elites to ignore the government's failure to provide the necessary infrastructure to provide safe drinking water, they argue.
Through aggressive marketing strategies, bottled water industries have successfully captured the minds of people, particularly in the "developed" countries, to think that "bottled water" is safer and healthier than tap water.
Today not only people from countries where tap water is not safe to drink buy bottled water at much higher prices, but also people in developed countries in Europe and North America, where tap water is safe to drink.
The EWN, a project of the WCC, has been raising awareness among churches and ecumenical organizations about water and sanitation issues, including the use of bottled water.
EWN INTERNATIONAL REFERENCE GROUP
The meeting of the EWN's International Reference Group was held July 15-17 in Geneva.
The group also agreed to launch its Lenten campaign Seven Weeks for Water from Palestine in 2016 as a "pilgrimage of justice and peace in Jerusalem."
The campaign, which addresses water issues from a justice perspective, will also provide a focus for the EWN's upcoming meeting in Egypt.
The International Reference Group also welcomed the recently issued encyclical Laudato si by Pope Francis, singling out the document's specific attention to issues of water and sanitation and praising its "deep insight and timely commentary."
The group's response commends the way in which the papal encyclical connects crucial issues of water injustice, climate change and the loss of biodiversity.
"The encyclical manifests the Holy Father's deep concern about the water issues that are at the core of EWN's global advocacy efforts, including realization of the human right to water and sanitation, privatization and corporate water grabbing, water for food and attainment of the UN sustainable development goals," the EWN group said.
"We must learn to govern our lives by these values and extend them to the whole of creation.
"As Pope Francis indicates, we need to change our overly consumptive lifestyles, and profoundly alter our society's approach to water and other elements of nature, to address the critical water problems we have created," reads the response.
The EWN's International Reference Group includes representatives of the Catholic churches in Latin America and Africa, regional ecumenical organizations, specialized ministries and representatives of the WCC's Orthodox and Protestant member churches.
The group said it will participate in the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York in September, where a series of 17 post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals will be launched.
(Reuters/Maxim Shemetov)Patriarch Krill leading an Orthodox Easter service.
Orthodox Christians in Russia were the first to begin Lent this year on Feb. 27 beginning a 40-day period of fast and sacrifice followed by Western Christians on Ash Wednesday, March 1.
For some Christians the period of Lenten sacrifice will entail cyber sacrifices such as abstaining from using the social media application WhatsApp and others are being urged to have an iPhone fast.
This year is a special Easter.
Those Orthodox who follow the Julian calendar like the Russian Orthodox and those who follow the Gregorian calendar along with Western churches will celebrate Christianity's greatest feast day on the same day, April 16.
The last day before Great Lent for Russian Orthodox was Forgiveness Sunday, which rounds up the week of Maslenitsa or Pancake festival celebrations,
Lent is the longest and strictest fasting season of the year in the Eastern Orthodox Church, Tass news agency reported.
The Eastern Orthodox Lent always begins on a Monday, which is designated as "Clean Monday."
That is the day Orthodox faithful begin a spiritual and moral purification through fasting, prayer, meditations, repentance, attending Lenten religious services and partaking of the Sacraments of Confession and Communion.
For Russian Orthodox believer products of animal origin and bad habits can be prohibited during that time and believers are encouraged to work on uplifting and strengthening their character, visit churches more often, take communion
In Zimbabwe, however, Roman Catholic youths across the country have been encouraged to go on a fast of WhatsApp for 40 days during the Lenten season.
Tendai Karombo, a youth representative in the Catholic Church in Zimbabwe, implored youths to abstain from using the free messaging application which is wildly popular with young people in the Southern African nation.
Speaking on a pre-recorded video during the launch of the 2017 Roman Catholic Church Lenten DVD in Harare, she said this was an opportunity for youths to show their commitment.
"Lenten season is that time when we journey together with Jesus, the passion, His crucifixion and His resurrection that is the moment we show Christ our allegiance to Him.
"But as Catholic youths, the concept of fasting is something which is not clear to us. However we do fast. Those who fast mainly fast food following the dictates of their parents but this coming Lenten season we will try and fast WhatsApp. We have never done it but I want to believe that we can do it," said Karombo.
Father Reki Mashayamombe from Seke Rural parish said abstaining from WhatsApp as a form of fasting is a prudent idea because so many young people spend their time on the platform.
"If they abstain they will concentrate on God during the Lenten season and also it shows an act of sacrifice," he said.
iPHONE FAST
In the United States, many people fast everyday things like alcohol, soda and sweets. This year, certain dioceses of the Catholic Church have suggest an iPhone fast for parishioners to sacrifice for Lent.
Some church leaders have taken to Twitter, like Archbishop Leonard Blair in Hartford, Connecticut, who is promoting the "#iPhoneFast" campaign online, ABC News reported.
With the current political climate and the division on social media, Archbishop Blair is asking people to turn off their smart phones, if not for the entire month, at least for Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
In Sacramento the Downtown Cathedral was packed at noon Wednesday with parishioners waiting to receive ashes.
"This is just a reminder that we are from dust and dust we shall return so everything we do in between really matters," Cathedral Youth Director, Titi Kila said.
Young adults from the church were asked if they thought the #iPhoneFast was possible, with one girl told saying "no way" and Jose Esparza said definitely not.
"I mean I can give up social media but I can't give up my phone completely," Esparza said.
The broadcaster found 23-year-old Jheryssa Florintino who did the #iPhoneFast last year. She encourages other millennials to do the same.
"It was a great way to reconnect to my faith and take away my time from all the technology really," Florintino said.
The campaign slogan is, "Shut off your phone and let God call your heart."
It has been revealed that principal Chris Griffiths and deputy principal, Joumana Dennaoiu, who headed the largely Muslim Punchbowl Boys High School in Sydney, had barred female teachers from taking part in official events.
The NSW Education Department confirmed to The Educator that both school heads were removed from their roles following an investigation into the school.
As a result of a recent appraisal of Punchbowl Boys High, there has been a change in the leadership of the school, a Department spokesman said.
A new principal and deputy principal will commence work at the school today.
The spokesman added that, importantly, there is no disruption to teaching and learning and the education opportunities provided to students.
The removal of the two school heads comes as NSW Education Minister, Rob Stokes, seeks legal advice over Hurstville Boys School in Sydney permitting its students to decline to shake hands with women in accordance with an ancient Islamic practice.
The notion of making federal special education funding portable"allowing money to follow individual students with disabilities so they can pay for the schools and services they choosehas been on the drawing board in conservative circles for several years.
Now, the idea has at least one well-placed supporter: U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, who gave the concept a positive mention during a brief exchange at her confirmation hearing.
Much of the media focus during the run-up to DeVos razor-thin confirmation focused on her responses to questions about whether the rules of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act should apply to all schools that receive federal funds.
Less discussed was her response to Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who asked DeVos whether she would do anything to send more special education dollars to the states. That is an action that would help every single school district in this country, Collins said.
Determining the amount of money that is allotted for special education is actually the role of Congress, which determines the budgets of individual federal departments. Currently, about $11.9 billion is allocated for special education grants to states. But DeVos said that she would commit to looking into the issue.
I actually think this is an area that could be considered for an approach that would be somewhat different, in that maybe the money should follow individual students instead of going directly to the states. I think thats something we could discuss, and I would look forward to discussing with members of this committee, she said.
Previous Proposals
Such a change would have support among some lawmakers.
Sen. Tim Scott, a Republican from South Carolina, introduced a bill called the CHOICE Act that would allow states that already have voucher programs aimed at students with disabilities to add federal special education dollars to them. Currently, 12 of the 26 voucher programs operating nationwide are for students with disabilities. A bill with largely the same provisions has been introduced at least twice before by Republicans.
And, though President Donald Trump did not speak about such issues on the campaign trail, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney made IDEA and Title I portability a feature of his education plan when he was the GOP presidential nominee in 2012. Title I is a federal funding stream that supports schools with high numbers of disadvantaged students.
Allowing federal special education money to follow students would be a radical departure from the current funding mechanism, a complex formula that is tied to a states overall share of students as well as its population of students in poverty. And if a voucher program were financed only with federal money, each students share would be small based on current funding levels: about $1,800 per student for those ages 3 to 21 with disabilities, according to U.S. Department of Education figures.
The Complexity of Special Education Funding The funding formula for federal special education aid was last adjusted in 1999. That formula, however, has not kept up with population shifts, changes in the number of students with disabilities, or the types of disabilities that students have. Currently, the federal government pays about 16 percent of the cost of educating a student with disabilities, or less than $1,800 per student.
But having a vocal school choice advocate in a leadership position could garner additional consideration for the proposal. In a letter responding to questions from Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., DeVos said that parents of students with disabilities need more options.
Offering parents of students with disabilities the opportunity to choose between a private school, a different public school, or a nonpublic school setting empowers the parents to receive what works best for their child, she said.
The last time Congress touched special education funding was in 1997, during a reauthorization of the IDEA. (The special education law was also reauthorized in 2004, but the formula for distributing money did not change.) The formula is based on a states overall student enrollment and the number of students in poverty. Additional calculations come into play, based on factors such as how much a state received in a previous year or changes in year-to-year federal allocations.
The nearly 20-year-old formula has led to some inequities, according to New America, a Washington-based think tank that investigated it in 2014. Notably, New America found that small districts get proportionally more money per student than larger ones and that districts that are losing enrollment receive more money per student than growing districts.
Another, bigger problem from the perspective of school districts: Congress has never funded special education at the level that is authorized under the IDEA. Back in 1975, Congress said that it would fund special education at up to 40 percent of average per-pupil expenditure in public schools. But the federal contribution is hovering at around 16 percent.
Pushing Back on Portability
Special education funding is due for a re-examination, but unraveling the system through funding portability is not the answer, said Scott Sargrad, the managing director of the K-12 education policy team for Center for American Progress, a left-leaning Washington think tank.
This would be a massive shift in IDEA, not just in funding but in the way the program works, Sargrad said.
And a voucher system for students with disabilities is a risky proposition for many families, he said. For example, students with disabilities who enroll in private schools do not have the same individual special education rights as students in public schools.
They lose significant rights by taking on these vouchers and going to a school that doesnt have to comply with IDEA, Sargrad said.
Such policies also drain significant resources from the public school system, but they dont necessarily reduce costs by all that much. They still have services that they need to provide to all students, he said.
Lindsey Burke, who leads the Center for Education Policy for the conservative Heritage Foundation, said providing federal money to parents who have already chosen to place their children in private schools is an intermediate step that might garner less pushback than a wholesale reform of the present system.
Under the IDEA, private schools are entitled to some special education services, provided by the local district where those schools are located. That support from the district must be equitable among all the private schools, but individual private school students are not guaranteed a full range of services under current law.
That federal money is already there, so maybe we can make this a little more flexible, instead of running it through a formula, Burke said.
Former Los Angeles superintendent John E. Deasy is heading up a new magazine for school district leaders aimed at promoting civil discourse in education.
The magazine, called The Line, promises to examine some of the most vexing education issuesfrom school funding and school choice to the impacts of immigration and accountabilitybut to do so in a way that will cultivate consensus and learning rather than calcify differences, according to Deasy. Frontline Education, a technology company that markets its software to school administrators, helped found the magazine and is providing financial backing for the publication, which will be free to educators.
The magazine is neither left, right, nor center, Deasy said, and, in an increasingly polarized political environment, will endeavor to be a venue where educators can present ideas and learn from each otherparticularly from those who may hold ideologically different views.
Its an incredibly challenging point in the country, and I really think that without both using and modeling civil discourse in education, common ground is really going to erode under our feet, said Deasy, who is The Lines editor-in-chief. And thats going to have a profoundly detrimental effect on the young people in our public schools.
Deasy resigned from his post as schools chief in Los Angeles in 2014 after an at-times tumultuous tenure there.
The magazine made its debut in print and online last week. Some of its inaugural articles offer a glimpse into how the magazine intends to try to bridge divides.
Differing Viewpoints
One article, based on email correspondence between Deasy and Chester E. Finn Jr., a senior fellow and president emeritus at the conservative, Washington-based Thomas B. Fordham Institute, shows the two men discussing whether lawmakers and everyday Americans fully understand the economic impacts of a failing education system, the ways in which schools need to change, and how people from different regionsurban and rural, black and whitecan come together to think about K-12 schooling.
Deasy said he was surprised at how much they agreed.
Another article looks at a perennial K-12 concernschool fundingand approaches districts and states have taken to maximize their resources. And the issue includes discussions of the Every Student Succeeds Act implementation by Arne Duncan, the former education secretary; Michael Mcgee, the CEO of Chiefs for Change; and Hanna Skandera, the education secretary in New Mexico.
It also featured a leader spotlight, with Kaya Henderson, the former District of Columbia schools chancellor.
Members of the magazines editorial advisory board reflect its effort to represent political and geographic diversity, as well as the perspectives of individuals who serve in different education roles. Advisory board members include Frederick Hess, resident scholar and director of education policy studies at the conservative American Enterprise Institute; Tom Boasberg, the Denver superintendent; Paul Toner, the executive director of Teach Plus Massachusetts and the former president of the Massachusetts Teachers Association; Vicki Phillips, the former head of K-12 grants at The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; and Allen Grossman, a senior fellow at the Harvard Business School.
Toner, a longtime union leader, said the magazines approach to finding common ground was similar to the path that has guided his career.
I have found throughout my career that the unions that claim all the education reformers are ill-intentioned are misinformed, and all the ed-reformers who claim that all union leaders want to put up roadblocks and prevent good things from happening and are only focused on self-interest, are also incorrect, he said. I really think in a perfect world we would bring these people together and have a serious dialogue about how we work together.
William Hite, the Philadelphia superintendent, is a member of the editorial advisory board. He said the publication could be an essential resource.
This inability ... to be respectful when there is difference in our country right now is concerning, he said. I do think here is an opportunity for everyone to learn from those differences.
Less Yelling
Hess agreed that there should be less yelling and more listening in education debates.
But, he said later, actions are ultimately more important than words.
Its hard to create policies, routines, and systems that support teaching and learning when we are engaged in bitter fights and calling each other nasty names, he said. I think if we can talk about things, disagree about these questions in a more responsible, serious fashion, that lets us tackle things like accountability and choice and virtual learning and teacher-quality in a way that doesnt let us get stuck in some of the potholes that we have been stuck in in recent years.
The Line emerged from several discussions between Deasy and Tim Clifford, the CEO of Frontline Education, after the two met at a conference in Boston last year. Frontline had recently launched a research arm, Frontline Research & Learning Institute, and was looking to expand its role in districts beyond being a vendor to share insights from data it had amassed over the years from working with districts.
The magazine will be published twice in print this year, but will be updated more regularly online. Online users will be able to annotate articles as they read them and participate in discussions in what Clifford calls an online town green. The magazine will be available online at TheLineK12.com.
Ukraine's largest poultry integrator to use EMKA Incubators
Ukraine's Mironovsky Hliboprodukt, the largest poultry integrator in the country, has chosen to use Belgium's EMKA Incubators for its latest project.
The first stage will be delivered by mid-2017.
After visiting the EMKA headquarters in Kuurne, Belgium, Mr. Bezhynets Vasyl, Director of Production Department, decided to go with EMKA Incubators.
The main reason he cited is because of the unique cooling system "Teggnologic27" that is able to achieve superior uniform chick quality through a "Dry Hatch" and the "DECS" cooling and spraying system.
The Dry Hatch improves the drying time of the newly hatched chicks, resulting in faster closed navels and a healthier start to life while running the cooling water at a temperature of 27 degree Celsius. This temperature is above the dew point which means that there will be no condensation in the incubator. This provides a perfect humidity, temperature and ventilation control while reducing any possibility of mould, bacteria or fungal development.
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.
In an exclusive interview, Mexican Ambassador to the U.S. Carlos M. Sada said the Mexican government would take back Mexicans who are deported from the United States but emphasized that the Mexican government would refuse to reimburse the U.S. for the construction of a border wall.
In his first televised interview as president last month, President Trump told ABC that immediate construction of the border wall would first be funded by taxpayers "and we will be, in a form, reimbursed by Mexico."
"I'm just telling you there will be a payment," Trump said, vowing "100 percent" reimbursement from Mexico. "It will be in a form, perhaps a complicated form."
Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto said last month in a televised address, "I've said time and again: Mexico won't pay for any wall. I regret and condemn the decision of the United States to continue construction of a wall that, for years, has divided us instead of uniting us."
The Trump administration's draft deportation guidelines prioritize undocumented immigrants with criminal records for removal from the interior of the United States.
When asked the ambassador if the Mexican government would accept all deportations of migrants who have committed crimes while living illegally in the country.
"As long as they are Mexicans, yes. As long as they are not Mexicans, no," the ambassador said after his meetings at the National Governors Association winter meeting.
Drivers urged not to leave keys in car
Police are urging Manx motorists not to leave their keys in their vehicles following a series of car thefts.
Several cars have been reported stolen in the last couple of weeks.
Officers say a common factor in most cases was that the keys were left in the vehicles.
Police warn motorists should take their keys out of their car and make sure the vehicle is locked to deter thieves.
Dog attack owner urged to come forward to ensure pet's safety
Officers investigating a dog attack which left four sheep dead say they can guarantee to animal won't be destroyed if the owner comes forward.
The attack happened at Glen Dhoo near the Ballaugh Plantation, resulting in the deaths of four sheep and orphaning a lamb.
The Northern Neighbourhood Policing Team says police won't destroy a dog that has attacked livestock, but will prosecute the owner.
However, officers warn the farmer has the option to shoot the dog during an attack, so the animal could be at risk if it attacks again.
Anyone with information on the attack at Glen Dhoo is asked to contact Police Headquarters.
Hollywood actor, Brad Pitt, is reportedly in contact with his ex-wife, Jennifer Aniston, while going through the Brangelina divorce. Several reports have now confirmed that the actor is, in fact, speaking with the "Friends" actress.
E Online, through its unnamed source, has confirmed that Brad Pitt, 53, is in contact with Jennifer Aniston, 43, amid the messy Brangelina divorce. The former couple, as what noted, shares a "friendly but limited relationship."
The news of Brad Pitt reaching out to Jennifer Aniston first surfaced in the issue of Us Weekly. According to Us Magazine, the actor did not have Aniston's number but he tracked it down through "a tangled web" of contacts. He wanted to wish the "Mother's Day" actress a Happy Birthday on Feb. 11 and they started talking soon after, the anonymous source said.
The former couple exchanged several text messages talking about the Brangelina divorce and how he is "having a hard time," Us Magazine reported. Brad Pitt is currently battling Angelina Jolie, 41, for joint custody for their children: Maddox, 15, Pax, 13, Zahara, 12, Shiloh, 10, and 8-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne. The actress, filmmaker and humanitarian, first filed the divorce in September 2016.
This shouldn't really come off as much of a surprise, especially for the fans who have been following Jennifer Aniston over the years. The 43-year-old actress, in 2015, has openly revealed her relationship with the actor, a decade after their divorce in 2005.
Aniston, on her talk with The Hollywood Reporter, said then that she was in contact with Brad Pitt but not on a daily basis. "We wish nothing but wonderful things for each other. Nobody did anything wrong," she continued.
Meanwhile, Jolie has recently spoken with BBC to promote her upcoming film "First They Killed My Father" and to shed some light about the Brangelina divorce. She admitted that this is a "difficult time" for her and her family. Further noting that her focus at the moment is their children.
Samsung Galaxy Note 8 has been one of the anticipated handsets to arrive this year. Recently, a well-known tipser named Evan Blass has revealed that the upcoming flagship device from the South Korean tech company will be bearing SM-N950 model number.
According to ValueWalk, Evan Blass who has been known for being a great tipser has delivered interesting information about the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. Blass suggested that the upcoming phablet from the South Korean tech company will be bearing a model number of SM-N950.
Aside from that, it was also predicted that the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 may possibly outrank the iPhone 8 when it comes with the power. As a matter of fact, it was believed that it will boast an enormous 6.2-inch display. Samsung is possible to slim down the bezels of the handset which was something that Apple would do its upcoming iPhone 8.
The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 is also expected to be armed with Bixby AI assistant and an iris scanner. It might also be engineered with an Exynos series 9 chipset that will be paired by a gigantic 6 GB of RAM. Internal memory wise, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 can be equipped with 256 GB of inbuilt storage which will definitely make its patrons happy.
As for the release date, Expert Reviews has noted that the Samsung Galaxy Note will be launched in last quarter of this year. Tracking the release dated of its predecessors, it can be remembered that the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 was unveiled in September 2016; the Galaxy Note 5 in August 2015; the Galaxy Note 4 in October 2014 and the Galaxy Note 3 in September 2013. The last four members of the Galaxy Note family were launched in the second half of the year which might also happen to Galaxy Note 8.
The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 is expected to be tagged at a high price point, mainly its because the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 cost 749. Furthermore, it is suggested to wait for further details from Samsung as these data are just based on rumors and predictions.
"Prison Break" Season 2 will start to air on April 4 featuring Michael and Lincoln's return. The upcoming season of the TV series will reportedly showcase a darker storyline as hinted by a recently released poster of the show.
According to Den of Geek, the "Prison Break" Season 5 is now established to return on April 4 consisting of nine episodes. It also appears that Michael and Lincoln will be going through serious problems when they return to the screen.
Furthermore, The Christian Post has noted that the recently released poster of "Prison Break" Season 5 having a statement "First, it was a prison. Now, it's a nation" is actually teasing the avid viewers a darker storyline for the upcoming season. With this, it appears that the brothers will go through a lot more hurdles as Lincoln convince his friends to help with Michael's jail-breaking plan.
It is pretty obvious that the "Prison Break" Season 5 will be presenting the reunion of Michael with Lincoln. The patrons are also expecting to see Michael's reconsolidation with Sara (Sarah Wayne Callies) and his son. Nevertheless, this plot is not yet confirmed and should be taken with a grain of salt. After all, Sara is already wedded to someone else.
The audiences of "Prison Break" Season 5 could also look forward to the introduction of Inbar Lavi. It can be remembered that formerly it was revealed that Lavi will play the role of Sheba who is a Yemeni activist. Moreover, it is still uncertain how she will touch Michael's scrape but she is believed to be someone who will be involved with Lincoln.
Earlier this month, Lavi divulged that Sheba's story will be important. She even stated that Sheba's story is something that should be open to the world. "We have to give these people a voice now more than ever, and I am so, so, so delighted and proud to be able to be that voice for them," Lavi further added.
The "Prison Break" Season 5 which was previously expected to premiere in January is now confirmed to air starting April 4. This season is consists of nine exciting episodes to watch over.
Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe remains to be one of the most controversial relationship in Hollywood considering that neither of them has actually admitted that they were dating. Many of "Outlander" Season 3 fans who have been rooting for them since day one are wondering if there was really a relationship to begin with. Was it over even before it started?
It's a sad time for "Outlander" Season 3 fans as reports about Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe split has been making its round on the internet. For months, fans and loyal shippers of Jamie and Claire's "Outlander" tandem have been wishing and crossing their fingers for a real relationship to happen. According to still unconfirmed reports, Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe split have been caused by a third party.
Is there any truth to Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe split? Or were the "Outlander" Season 3 stars never a couple? According to Just Jared, Sam Heughan recently went public with alleged girlfriend, MacKenzie Mauzy in an Oscars weekend kick-off party hosted by The Weinstein's Company and Piaget. This was reportedly the first time that Sam Heughan and MacKenzi Mauzy appeared together as a couple.
With this in mind, many are wondering if MacKenzie Mauzy is the reason behind Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe split. According to sources, Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe are reportedly not in very good terms with each other for the past few weeks. Could the Oscars-party be the tipping point of their relationship not only as alleged lovers, but as co-stars as well?
It seems like a rift between Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe might make things awkward on the set of "Outlander" Season 3. According to ET Canada, the "Outlander" stars revealed that their characters, Jamie and Claire, are going to have more intimate scenes despite of the 20-year time jump in the upcoming season. As of of writing, the Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe split issues remain to be addressed by the parties involved.
Disney's announcement of not renewing "Girl Meets World" Season 4 brought sad news to the fans who were following the story of Maya and Riley. While the series sadly came to an end on Jan. 20, 2017, many of the fans are still hoping for a "Girl Meets World" renewal, be it on Disney or on another channel.
There have been reports that Disney has decided to cancel "Girl Meets World" Season 4 because of the plot is already going in a more mature direction. Given that the characters are real humans who are experiencing real life maturity both physically, emotionally and mentally, the characters that they play in "Girl Meets World" will be inevitably affected.
"Girl Meets World" stars, Sabrina Carpenter and Rowan Blanchard, have already expressed their sadness that their beloved Disney show had to come to an end. The three "Girl Meets World" Seasons proved to be a stage for the two young ladies to prove not only to the world, but also to their own selves that they can be successful actresses.
Starring in a hit show in Disney like "Girl Meets World" is definitely a big honor tucked under their belt for future projects that they would like to pursue. Now that the fate of "Girl Meets World" Season 4 remains floating in the air, how are Sabrina Carpenter and Rowan Blanchard doing with their careers?
According to Just Jared, Sabrina Carpented is venturing into the world of modeling, with Marc Jacobs as the stepping stone for her career in the catwalk. The 17-year old "Girl Meets World" actress reportedly made her modeling debut by walking in Marc Jacobs fashion show in the 2017 New York Fashion Week.
Meanwhile, fellow "Girl Meets World" star, Rowan Blanchard, has also made her presence known during the New York Fashion Week. According to Teen Vogue, the 15-year old "GMW" star attended the Milly Show during the 2017 NYFW.
As of writing, "Girl Meets World" Season 4 is still tittering on a continue or delete button, waiting for a green light for production and filming to begin again. Stay tuned to Enstars for more "Girl Meets World" Season 4 news and updates!
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reported to attend a wedding in Jamaica this weekend. Royal family fans are excited to know whether the young prince will also bring "Suits" actress to Pippa Middleton's wedding on May.
It was ironic that Prince Harry has broken up with Cressida Bonas over a row about attending a friend's wedding. With Meghan Markle, there was no confusion as the two lovebirds will attend a three-day party at a super-exclusive Round Hill Hotel and Villas according to a report by The Daily Beast. The location is private 110-acre plantation style resort with cottages built for the rich and famous in the 1950s.
Many are thrilled that Prince Harry is introducing his girlfriend Meghan Markle to a wider circle of friends. On January and February this year, the American actress was reported to have spent much of the time with the prince on his place in Kensington Palace.
According to sources of Daily Mail, Prince Harry is head over heels about Meghan Markle. The wedding in Jamaica will be the first time the couple will socialize openly. Some considered it as a significant step up in their relationship. "This one could go all the way," the source said.
The next big step on the relationship of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle is Pippa Middleton's wedding to James Matthews on May 20. Many are expecting that the 32 year old prince will bring the "Suits"star on one of the royal family's big event.
Pippa Middleton and James Matthews' wedding will be a great avenue for Prince Harry to introduce Meghan Markle to the royal family. However, rumours are rife that the Queen has forbid the prince to bring his actress girlfriend. Still, fans are hoping that Prince Harry will soon propose to Meghan Markle and the next wedding they will attend will be their own.
Among the new coinages that have gained currency in public debate in the Kerala of the new millennium, the most prominent one, undoubtedly is sadaachaara policing, or moral policing. The coinage gained velocity of circulation in and through the anti-Hindutva Kiss of Love protests in 2015, when young people protested at the rock-solid sexual conservatism that dominates public spaces in the state, reinforced by religious conservatisms. The Kiss of Love struggles gave a name to the widespread surveillance imposed and violence perpetrated against especially young people, or more broadly, against all those who transgress conservative sexual normsand it quickly became a part of youth vocabulary, as a synonym for a dirty practice. However, this practice is not new at all, though the sudden rise of media attention towards incidents of moral policing may convey the impression that it has suddenly reached grave proportions.
Indeed, if there is anything that is characteristic of Keralas moral policing, it is its very normality, its banalityit is certainly not something that follows in the wake of a moral panic. Also, moral policing need not involve the state at all, though both the police and judiciary here are enthusiastic proponents of moral policing, even in violation of the law. Typically, the perpetrators are gangs of men (though women are equally capable of it, particularly school and college teachers, and in a very recent incident, policewomen) who accost couples or groups, allege sexual impropriety, and go on to publicly humiliate, assault, or threaten them. Often they incarnate as naattukaar (local people)civil society, so to say, zealous of protecting decency and even the security of women in their localities. But the vigilante brigades may also be political party activists keen to target the leaders or prominent members of their rivals. So common, so normal, were these acts that they were even counted as evidence for the goodness of rural people, rescuing others and their localities from vice.
The case that rewrote a 145-year-old core law. The case that launched the first corruption investigation into Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The case that set up new yardsticks for corporate ethics in India. The case that helped clean up the polity. The case of what are known as the BirlaSahara Papers could have been any of these three. Instead, it became a case of quick burial by more than one branch of the administration, in a manner that most likely needs the legal equivalent of exhumation.
On 11 January 2017, Justices Arun Mishra and Amitava Roy of the Supreme Court dismissed interim appeals seeking investigation into the BirlaSahara Papersa set of documents, emails, spreadsheets, diaries, notebooks seized during raids on the Aditya Birla Group and the Sahara Group. The papers suggested that off-the-book payments were made to several senior politicians in India holding public office, including Prime Minister Modi. Justices Mishra and Roy wrote a 23-page order with a terse last sentence: "The applications deserve dismissal and are hereby dismissed" (Common Cause v Union of India 2017). With that, an important case appeared to have hit a wall triggering a host of questions, legal and political.
How It Came to This
The case is not merely that of the BirlaSahara Papers. It involves the merits, or lack of them, of India's central vigilance commissioner, the happenings in the scandal relating to allotment of coal blocks, the raids by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Income Tax (IT) department on two leading corporate houses in India, and possible leads into corruption in high places unearthed in those raids.
In 2015, a Delhi-based non-governmental organisation (NGO), Common Cause, and others filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court asking that the appointments of Central Vigilance Commissioner K V Chaudhary and Vigilance Commissioner T M Bhasin be set aside, because they were "not of impeccable integrity." The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the designated agency to receive allegations of corruption and misuse of public office in India. An important function of its chair is to oversee the working of the CBI about allegations of bribery and corruption by public servants.
In 2015, unrelated to the petition against the CVC, a set of papers from the IT department obtained as a result of two search-and-seizure raids in 2013 on the Aditya Birla Group and in 2014 on the Sahara Group reached a few journalists, some of whom reported on them. The IT raid on the Aditya Birla Group came after a CBI raid relating to coal block allocation. The CBI found about 25 crore unaccounted cash and several documents described as "incriminating" in a New Delhi office of an Aditya Birla Group firm. The CBI informed the IT department, who then conducted a raid the next day. The BirlaSahara Papers hadamong other thingsreferences to possible payoffs to senior politicians in clearly legible words. For instance, there are references to payments made to "Modiji" and "CM Gujarat" in the Sahara Papers.
Common Cause filed interim appeals asking for a special investigation into what the BirlaSahara Papers contained, in the context of what appeared to be links to Prime Minister Modi when he was chief minister of Gujarat. Why did Common Cause intervene? Its director Vipul Mudgal offers a rationale:
The case is among many others relating to probity in public life. We believed that the evidence was strong enough to merit an investigation. It was with a similar faith that we filed PILs [public interest litigations] in the coal block allocation and 2G spectrum cases which eventually transformed the way natural resources are allocated in India. Both these cases started similarly with fragments of strong though unconnected evidence but a court-monitored investigation made all the difference by connecting the dots. The case involving the BirlaSahara Papers is like the 2G and coal block cases.[1]
The case, thus, became important. Initially, Justices J S Khehar and Arun Mishra heard the first interim appeal of Common Cause. Senior Supreme Court Advocate Shanti Bhushan and his co-advocate Prashant Bhushan argued the case. Justice Khehar used the phrase "zero material" to trash Common Cause's case. Prashant Bhushan argued that Justice Khehar was (then) due to be appointed Chief Justice of India (CJI) and this might willy-nilly compromise his freedom to judge a case with possible links to the Prime Minister, who would approve his appointment as CJI. Justice Roy took Justice Khehar's place to hear the second appeal, when he co-authored the order dismissing the appeal as without merit. But, the dismissal of an appeal as meritless does not immediately mean that a case is equally meritless. The manner of this dismissal, thus, raises a few important questions.
What Constitutes Evidence?
The dismissal of the appeal hinged on the quality of evidence. Justices Mishra and Roy referred to Section 34 of the Indian Evidence Act of 1872 to dismiss the Common Cause interim appeals. The act is a core law that defines evidence in all crime, blue collar and white collar. Section 34 of this act deals with "Entries in books of account when relevant." It says: "Entries in books of account, regularly kept in the course of business, are relevant whenever they refer to a matter into which the court has to inquire, but such statements shall not alone be sufficient evidence to charge any person with liability." In 2003, the Government of India amended this section by replacing the phrase "such statements" with "such entries."
In paragraph 20 of their order, Justices Mishra and Roy say: "Loose sheets of papers are wholly irrelevant as evidence being not admissible under Section 34 to constitute evidence with respect to the transactions mentioned therein being of no evidentiary value" (Common Cause v Union of India 2017: 15). Justices Mishra and Roy referred to portions of a 1998 Supreme Court judgment in the Jain Hawala case (Central Bureau of Investigation v V C Shukla 1998). This case too hinged on the quality of evidence. The case was about the notebooks and diaries that the CBI found during a raid on businessman J K Jain's house in southeast Delhi. The diaries contained records of what appeared to be payments received and payoffs made to people in high places. These entries were in an abbreviated form. Hawala, in an Indian context, is a parallel and often illegal method of transferring and exchanging monies.
What Is a Book?
Justices Mishra and Roy quoted the portions of the 1998 judgment to explain what constitutes an account, a book, and thus evidence, which merits examination.
An account presupposes the existence of two persons such as a seller and a purchaser, creditor and debtor. Admittedly, the alleged diaries in the present case are not records of the entries arising out of a contract. They do not contain the debits and credits. They can at the most be described as a memorandum kept by a person for his own benefit which will enable him to consider the same whenever the need arises to do so for his future purpose. Admittedly the said diaries were not being maintained on day-to-day basis during business. There is no mention of the dates on which the alleged payments were made. In fact, the entries therein are on monthly basis. Even the names of the persons whom the alleged payments were made do not find a mention in full. They have been shown in abbreviated form. Only certain "letters" have been written against their names which are within the knowledge of only the scribe of the said diaries as to what they stand for and whom they refer to.
On what constitutes a book, the 1998 judgment said,
The term 'book' in Section 34 [of the Indian Evidence Act 1872] may properly be taken to signify, ordinarily, a collection of sheets of paper bound together with the intention that such binding shall be permanent and the papers used collectively in one volume. It is easier however to say what is not a book for the purposes of Section 34, and I have no hesitation in holding that unbound sheets of paper, in whatever quantity, though filled up with one continuous account, are not a book of account within the purview of Section 34.
Thus, the Common Cause appeals were dismissed because the BirlaSahara Papers did not have a spiral or permanent binding and because the documents were not part of official accounts. Corruption tends to be off-the-books, although at times official financial statements have been found as falsified to hide bribes. The Common Cause appeal rested entirely on the premise that unaccounted payments were made to politicians, possibly for favours done to the corporate houses in question. The chances of such payments being part of regular business accounts are minimal or non-existent.
What Is an Account?
Justices Mishra and Roy also quoted the argument on what constitutes an account put forth by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, who appeared for the Jains (he was later a minister in both the United Progressive Alliance governments headed by the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh). He said that in business parlance "account" means a formal statement of money transactions between parties, arising out of a contractual or fiduciary relationship. His view was that books of account need to reflect such a relationship and not merely contain entries of monies received from one set of persons and payment thereof to another set of persons. Sibal then said books of account relating to a business would not be admissible under Section 34 if they were not regularly kept. The words "regularly kept" mean that the entries in books are contemporaneously made at the time the transactions take place, and not long after.
Facts and Entries
And then, Justices Mishra and Roy referred to the evidentiary value of what Common Cause presented. In paragraph 19 of their order, they quoted the 1998 Supreme Court judgment on the Jain hawala case:
With respect to evidentiary value of [a] regular account book, this Court has laid down in V C Shukla, thus;
"37. In Beni v Bisan Dayal it was observed that entries in books of account are not by themselves sufficient to charge a person with liability, the reason being that a man cannot be allowed to make evidence for himself by what he chooses to write in his own books behind the back of the parties. There must be independent evidence of the transaction to which the entries relate and in absence of such evidence no relief can be given to the party who relies upon such entries to support his claim against another. In Hira Lal v Ram Rakha the High Court said that the rule as laid down in Section 34 of the Evidence Actthat entries in the books of account regularly kept during business are relevant whenever they refer to a matter in which the Court must enquirewas subject to the salient proviso that such entries shall not alone be sufficient evidence to charge any person with liability. It is not, therefore, enough merely to prove that the books have been regularly kept during business and the entries therein are correct. It is further incumbent upon the person relying upon those entries to prove that they were in accordance with facts."
Common Cause counsel Prashant Bhushan disagreed with this. In a statement after the judgment, he said,
Among the documents seized [in a raid by the IT department in November 2014] were detailed accounts maintained in spreadsheets in the computers of an employee of Sahara which contain details of 115 crores of cash received in the year 201314, out of which 113 crores had been paid out to various public servants.
The spreadsheets contained details of dates, amounts and source from which amounts were received, which is mostly from a marketing company of Sahara called Marcomm. It also contained details of payment of this cash on different dates of different amounts to different people at different places and through named delivery persons. This spreadsheet contains details of two payments amounting to 10 crore to [the Chief Minister] CM of Madhya Pradesh, one payment to [the] CM of Chhattisgarh, nine payments amounting to 40 crores to CM of Gujarat, who is also referred to as Modiji.
Before the IT Department, Sahara claimed that these were fictitious records created by a disgruntled employee to implicate another employee of Sahara. This explanation was disbelieved by IT, who came to the conclusion that these documents represented the true state of affairs for several reasons, most importantly because the cash received mentioned in these documents from Marcomm tallied with the entries and ledger books of Marcomm itself, which were also recovered. (CatchNews 2017)[2]
However, the IT Settlement Commission on 10 November 2016 had granted the Sahara Group immunity in this case, and brought it to an unusually speedy conclusion (Sarin 2017). In their dismissal order, Justices Mishra and Roy refer to the IT Settlement Commission's
10 November 2016 order saying the papers have no evidentiary value.
In case of Sahara, in addition we have the adjudication by the IT Settlement Commission. The Commission has held as well that the Principal Commissioner, IT [has] not been able to show and substantiate the nature and source of receipts as well as nature and reason of payments and have failed to prove evidentiary value of loose papers and electronic documents within the legal parameters.
Curiously, Justices Mishra and Roy referred to the immunity given to the Sahara Group as a factor in dismissing the Common Cause appeals, without questioning the nature of this immunity and the speedy conclusion of the case.
Holes in the Judgment
Justices Mishra and Roy, therefore, concluded that the BirlaSahara Papers do not meet the required yardsticks for books, accounts and evidentiary value as described in Section 34 of the Indian Evidence Act 1872. This implies that the processes of maintaining accounts and their evidentiary value have not evolved from 1872 and 1998. This cannot hold. Much has changed in how businesses maintain account books. It is an archaic, limited and unfair application of the mind to understand account books in 2017 as a collection of sheets of paperblank, written or printedbound together in a manner which cannot be disturbed or altered except by tearing apart. This is from a pre-internet era. Modern software understands account books differently. In the internet era, everything related to accounts is maintained on electronic devices. There are Excel spreadsheets, Tally software, "cloud" architecture and more. Justices Mishra and Roy may have applied the letter of the law but seemingly not its spirit.
Evidence of crime may come in various forms. Blue collar crime, say, murder, may be solved by investigating a trash bin where there is hardly formal evidence of the crime. White collar crimesay, corruption and briberyoften has evidence that does not fit the formal definition of evidence from 1872. Off-the-books entries are often in the form of codes meant to help the persons dealing with it, but not necessarily an accounts wing in a business house that deals with formal money matters. Laws need to evolve with crime. The Parliament of India has an opportunity here to amend the 1872 act to avoid future dismissal of cases of this nature.
The reference to the IT Settlement Commission order is a tad perplexing. The Supreme Court justices appear to have overlooked a few simple facts here. The accounts in the Sahara Papers seem like they have been maintained over a long period. They tally with entries in the ledgers of Marcomm, from where the money paid to politicians was received and distributed. And then, the Sahara Group agreed to pay taxes on the 137 crore unaccounted cash seized during the raid. Also, Section 132 of the Income Tax Act of 1961 lays down the legal presumption that documents seized during an IT raid are presumed to be genuine and belonging to the person or firm seized from, unless proven to be otherwise.
The use of the Jain Hawala case as precedent to dismiss the Common Cause appeal appears out of place here. The evidence in the BirlaSahara Papers is far stronger than in the Jain Hawala case. The BirlaSahara Papers have full names of the people to whom the money was paid, the names of the people who paid the money, the locations of the fund transfers, the quantum of monies, and the dates when the payments were made. The Jain Hawala case was dismissed after the CBI investigated and filed a charge sheet against the accused. The court then said that the CBI charge sheet was not able to establish the charges against the accused based on the coded entries of alleged payments. There is, thus, a fundamental difference. The Common Cause appeal sought an investigation to establish the veracity of the BirlaSahara Papers. If the Jain Hawala case was the yardstick, then Justices Mishra and Roy ought to have ordered an inquiry into the contents of the BirlaSahara Papers. The findings of an independent court-monitored inquiry would have been the appropriate basis of further action; not the mere appeal for an inquiry.
Now, we come to the yardstick of accounts as applied by Justices Mishra and Roy. The IT department considered the Birla Papers incriminating not because they refer to seller and purchaser or creditor and debtor, and not because they contain formal statements of money transactions between parties arising out of a contractual or fiduciary relationship. They are deemed incriminating because they seem to record off-the-books transactions, which basically cannot be accounted for in the formal sense. Allegations of corruption and bribery in public office almost never involve formal statements of accounts.
Periodically, courts worldwide have ruled on fraudulent activity to falsify financial statements, although it is not mandatory that such activity account for bribes. The Common Cause appeals asked for investigation into the BirlaSahara Papers because they seem to indicate serious corruption in high places. An investigation would have established the degree of incrimination in the documents seized. It was an opportunity to establish the spirit of law on allegations of corruption and bribery in public office. The application of yardsticks for accounted money to unaccounted money is self-defeating. It is a case of law writing unto itself that evidence does not hold even before establishing the veracity of the evidence.
Role of the Judges
Why, then, did the two judges act so? We could simply suppose that they applied their mind the best way they saw fit. Not every judgment can please everyone. But, there are strands of a chilling nature that do not allow us to apply this basic assumption. Justice Mishra missed elevation to the Supreme Court three times before he made it. There are reports saying the collegium, which appoints judges, asked for a background check on Justice Mishra (Balaji 2013). This was during the tenure of recently-deceased Justice Altamas Kabir as Chief Justice of India. The background check was apparently on Justice Mishra's proximity or otherwise to a right-wing NGO that treats the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as its political wing. After being passed over more than once, Justice Mishra was elevated to the Supreme Court in July 2014, six weeks after Modi took charge as Prime Minister.
In late 2016, Justice Mishra held wedding receptions for his nephew in New Delhi and Gwalior. Among the guests was Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Bhushan 2017), of whom there is an apparent reference in the Sahara Papers as the "CM MP" to whom 10 crore was allegedly paid through a person named Neeraj Vashisht. Also among the guests were union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, and a host of BJP seniors.
Should Chouhan's presence trigger concern about Justice Mishra's presence on the bench hearing the Common Cause appeal on the BirlaSahara Papers? Is there reasonable ground to believe that Justice Mishra presiding over the appeal contravenes the code of conduct for judges in India? This code, formally known as Restatement of Values of Judicial Life,[3] was adopted in a full court meeting of the Supreme Court in May 1997 and then adopted in December 1999 at a New Delhi conference of Chief Justices of High Courts (Venkatesan 2000). Point 6 of the 16-point code says, "A judge should practice a degree of aloofness consistent with the dignity of his office." Point 7 of the code says, "A judge shall not hear and decide a matter in which a member of his family, a close relation or a friend is concerned."
Justice Mishra's conduct appears to conflict with both points. Hosting and receiving many guests from the union government and the political party heading the government, at a nephew's wedding reception, is not aloofness consistent with the dignity of the office of a Supreme Court judge. Chouhan's presence indicates a level of proximity that might fall under the definition of "friend." Although Justice Mishra served as a judge in the Madhya Pradesh High Court and as Chief Justice in the Rajasthan High Court, he ought not to have anything to do with the chief ministers of those states in a personal capacity. His wedding reception was not an official event. It was purely personal. Justice Mishra, thus, behaved in a manner not consistent with point 7 of the code of conduct.
Of Justice Khehar, who presided over the Common Cause appeal until Prashant Bhushan said he should not, there is more. Chief ministers in India do not usually kill themselves. The suicide of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Kalikho Pul in August 2016 was, therefore, a shock (Press Trust of India 2016). He appears to have written a 60-page booklet in Hindi called "My Thoughts," in which the last entry is a day before he was found hanging in his official bungalow. Pul was chief minister for a few months in the first half of 2016. This happened after a revolt by members of the legislative assembly (MLAs) belonging to the Congress unseated chief minister Nabam Tuki. President's Rule was imposed after which Pul was sworn-in and proved his majority with the help of rebel Congress MLAs and BJP MLAs. Tuki went to the Supreme Court against the imposition of President's Rule.
In an exhaustive 329-page constitutional order on 13 July 2016, comprising three judgments of a five-judge bench, Justice Khehar's leading judgment restored the government of Nabam Tuki. On page 12 of his diary, Pul alleges, "I received phone calls asking for 86 crore to give a judgment in my favour. But my conscience did not permit this. I didn't want to hurl the state into a well. Why should I therefore misuse government and public money to save my government?" On page 38, Pul claims, "I lost faith in the courts after this Supreme Court judgment. The MLAs of Arunachal Pradesh can be bought. The Congress party is also up for sale. But I never thought that the judges of the Supreme Court can also be bought. They contacted my associates and I several times to discuss a judgment in my favour. They asked for a bribe of 86 crore. I don't have the kind of money to buy the Supreme Court, its judges and its judgments. Neither do I want to."
On page 39, Pul further alleges, "Virender Khehar, the younger son of Justice Khehar, contacted my associates and asked for 49 crore. And Aditya Misra, the brother of [the second-most senior judge of the Supreme Court] Justice Dipak Misra, asked me [for] 37 crore." On page 40, Pul contends, "I was contacted till 9 pm on 12 July 2016 that if I paid an advance of 9 crore, then the judgment would be deferred for a month and I could pay the rest of the 77 crore after a judgment in my favour was delivered. I did not agree to pay." On page 41, Pul says, "Until today, 25 July 2016, Ram Avtar Sharma has been contacting me on behalf of Justice Khehar. He is talking of how to get the judgment changed. He has taken the business of how and when to file a petition upon himself. He asked me 31 crore for this. ... People must learn to recognise these brokers and traders in law and these corrupt traitors. The government should keep a close watch on the orders of judges and they must draft a law to challenge the judgments of the Supreme Court. So that such a law may be used to stop corruption among the judges."
Pul's diary came into the public domain in February 2017, six months after his suicide. But the administration had it all the while. How much did Prime Minister Modi know of it when he signed the order appointing Justice Khehar as chief justice? How much did other seniors in the union government know? How much did Justices Khehar and Mishra know before they dismissed the Common Cause appeal? Is Pul's diary a dying declaration? Dying declarations have consequences. Are there grounds to reopen the case after Pul's diary and Justice Mishra's wedding reception? This is a case allegedly involving the Prime Minister, partly overseen by the chief justice and with allegations of corruption against the chief justice by a chief minister. Should this case not be reopened?
What the Birla Papers Say
The Birla Papersdocuments seized during raids in 2013 at the Aditya Birla Management Corporation Pvt Ltd (ABM- CPL)have testimonies and email conversations relating to unaccounted cash, hawala transactions and what appear to be corrupt practices involving investigative wings of the Government of India. The principal testimonies are from Anand Kumar Saxena, then deputy general manager (DGM), accounts, ABMCPL, and Shubhendu Amitabh, group executive president and in charge of ABMCPL. Saxena and Amitabh have signed on the documents. They affirm everything they say. There are signatures of IT officials Ankita Pandey and R D Verma corroborating this. These are statements recorded under Section 132(4) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Saxena says he was responsible for managing cash and accounts at the
ABMCPL, but he does not know how 25 crore was in the almirah only he had the keys to. He says that "no record is kept about receipt and payment or disbursal of said cash" and that "in view of this, we cannot produce any records or account in support of the availability of said cash."[4] Why are there no records of such a large sum of money? Was this normal practice?
Saxena says he has "no idea" how the ABMCPL keeps track of inward and outward movement of cash. He says that he receives cash from hawala operators (whom he describes as angarias) regularly and explains how this happens. He further says that,
we are instructed by Shubhendu Amitabh to disburse or make payment of a particular amount through our senior officers of the company to some persons but the purpose of such disbursal or payment is not communicated to us. The procedure adopted for making the disbursal or payment in cash is such that we cannot identify the persons to whom it is paid.
Saxena names four ABMCPL officers as conduits for unaccounted cash transactions: M Ravishankar, Assistant Vice-President; Vinod Verma, Assistant Vice-President; K M Sunil Kumar, DGM; and P R Seshamani, Advisor. Saxena refers to an incident where he "sat back in the car while my senior colleagues deliver the cash."[5]
Saxena says that he followed Amitabh's orders in making entries of unexplained cash transactions under various heads he did not understand. Nor, he says, did he know the source, nature and purpose of such cash and transactions. He says that the notebooks that contained the dates of unaccounted cash transactions before 2011 were destroyed, but that he knows of unaccounted cash transactions happening in the ABMCPL for five years and that he maintained records of some of them.[6]
Saxena says he used to collect unaccounted cash from hawala operators on occasion.[7] He provides details of virtually daily hawala transactions at ABMCPL in the range of 50 lakh to 1.5 crore. He gives names and contact details of the hawala operators and details the amounts of cash received from these hawala operators at the ABMCPL office. He explains how all this was done: with the hawala operators having code words for amounts and tallying the serial numbers of currency notes of 10 and 20 denominations, which would be matched and money exchanged.
Amitabh initially says that he cannot remember much. He says the coded account heads are "not known" to him. He repeats at several places that he does not remember anything. He then says he used codes so that no one in his office would know. He adds that he used formal office names as codes to "make Saxena feel comfortable and to keep guises under check." And finally, Amitabh says in an affidavit that the 25 crore unaccounted cash found in the October 2013 raid was his. He says this money came from his dealings in real estate and moneylending. He further says that the money for his dealings in real estate and moneylending came from a company called Sunbeam Trading & Investment Private Ltd.
Amitabh says Sunbeam Trading & Investment is an unlisted company of the Aditya Birla Group with its registered office at Kolkata and engaged in the business of iron ore trade from the years 200708 until 201011. He says this company also had an office in the same building as the ABMCPL on Parliament Street, New Delhi. He says Sunbeam told him that some money would be paid in cash at its Parliament Street office and asked Amitabh to take charge of the funds for "safekeeping." Amitabh says he used this money for his dealings in real estate and moneylending, through which he earned handsomely. A part of these earnings was the unaccounted 25 crore found in the October operation.[8]
Did Amitabh, as Group Executive President, ever inform his seniors at the Aditya Birla Group that he was keeping vast sums of unaccounted personal cash in the ABMCPL office? If so, what did the Aditya Birla Group say or do? Is it normal practice for the ABMCPL head, as Amitabh was, to store one company's cash in another company's office?
Amitabh explains his change in stance thus: "I was very very anxious in those moments when I sat down to pen my answers. Anxiety, apprehension, fear and a severely troubled mind had little reasoning [his word] to cheer about. In that moment of gross tension with a sinking worldmy office, home, etc, around meI had only a confused mind to offer. Though I did know of the coded entries but lacked the stability to reason through the maze. I never maintained a record of details and did all of this in a rather ad hoc unscientific manner."
IT Appraisal of the Birla Papers
The IT Appraisal Report says that the ABMCPL routinely used a network of hawala operators to receive and disburse huge amounts of unaccounted cash. It says that it has established how at least one hawala operator, Jalu Ram, conducted his business with the ABMCPL in which at least two officers of the ABMCPL are named, Saxena, DGM, Accounts, at ABMCPL, and G K Tulsian of Grasim Industries, who is also Director at Sunbeam.[9]
The report says that a search of Amitabh's residential premises resulted in seizure of "highly incriminating" documents that revealed "very largescale evasion of income tax."[10] It says that the ABMCPL explained the unaccounted 25 crore found in the October 2013 raid as solely belonging to Amitabh and not to the ABMCPL.[11]
The report says that Saxena and Amitabh "seem to have come out only with part truth about the true nature of transactions and appear to have made certain claims which do not seem to be true."[12] Amitabh was reporting directly to Aditya Birla Group President and Chairperson Kumaramangalam Birla.[13] Did Amitabh brief Birla of his unaccounted cash?
Amitabh said initially that he did not remember anything about the coded heads under which Saxena made unaccounted money entries. He said: "I reiterate that all entries, for obvious reasons, were coded. None other than myself knew of this. And, since this was being done in a state of guise, my accounts department too were not in [the] picture. I never maintained a record of such detail and did all of this in a rather ad hoc, unscientific manner." He also said: "I maintain that I do not remember names and other specifics of individuals or parties that I deployed funds with."[14]
The report states,
However, after a letter dated 25 December 2013 was filed by ABMCPL on 26 December 2013, he suddenly changed his mind and surprisingly his memory came back to remember all the alleged coded entries in respect of which he had earlier feigned ignorance. ... This sudden change in his stand, his reluctance to reveal the truth about the transactions and his theory of alleged moneylending and real estate business activities without any corroborative material whatsoever, other than his claim and similar uncorroborated supporting claim makes it obvious that while he has some inclination to pay taxes on undisclosed income, he is not inclined to come out with the full truth about the real nature of such transactions.[15]
The report refers to contradictions in Amitabh's stance on the alleged Sunbeam money when he refers to a Sunbeam Director, R P Pansari, as the person who told him to keep 34 crore of Sunbeam money safe, which was from the period 200708 to 201011. Pansari says he became a Sunbeam Director on 9 October 2013, which means he did not tell Amitabh anything about the 34 crore.[16]
The Gujarat CM Entry
Amitabh said that an entry found on his laptop, "Gujarat CM25 crore (12-done-rest?)," relates to Gujarat Alkali Chemicals. He explained it thus: "These were purely personal notes. The note was for my knowledge and consumptiona business development at Gujarat Alkali Chemicals, a company engaged in caustic soda as well. This was an update for my knowledge only. Only for personal consumption. I used abbreviations. Guj CM stands for Gujarat Alkali Chemicals."
The report states that Amitabh was asked if he used a similar abbreviation, Gujarat CM for Gujarat Alkali Chemicals, anywhere else and if it was used by anyone else in the Aditya Birla Group when referring to Gujarat Alkali Chemicals.[17] Amitabh says that he uses a lot of abbreviations in personal diaries and notings and that he wrote "WEF" about "Gujarat CM." If he was writing an email, Amitabh said, he might have written Gujarat Chemicals or World ECO Forum, but since it was a personal note, he did not expand. He adds that the "25 crore" and "12 done-rest?" referred to the reduction in Indian mutual funds shareholding in Gujarat Alkali Chemicals. "It very sharply reduced from 1225 crore. My personal random notes reflect this trend only." He does not expand on "coded names" when asked about entries saying, "Gujarat PCC Patel" and "6 crore friend for Bihar."
What exactly does "reduced from 12-25 crore" mean? How does "12 done-rest?" relate to a drop in mutual fund value? For what exactly is the reference to the WEF? What was "his team" doing in Gujarat?[18] Given that the report says Amitabh was evasive and made unbelievable turnarounds by turn, does the entry "Gujarat CM" not merit more attention?
The Sunbeam Puzzle
Sunbeam wrote to the IT authorities after the October 2013 raid that it is a private limited company with its registered office at Industry House, 10 Camac Street, Kolkata 700017. Sunbeam said that although the company was incorporated in 1997, its iron ore business occurred only between the financial years 200708 and 201011. Sunbeam said it conducted its iron ore trade through a broker, Vijay Mundhra, who "insisted" on making part payment in cash outside the books. Sunbeam said that it then arranged for the safe custody of its cash with Amitabh.
A search on Google for Sunbeam Trading & Investments Private Ltd at the Kolkata address it gave opens to a Non Banking Financial Company (NBFC) listing, where Sunbeam is listed as a chit fund company.[19] Its page further opens to a blank page.[20] A Google search of Sunbeam Trading & Investment Private Ltd Kolkata, without typing the full address, leads to a listing on the Zauba Corp website.[21] A point of interest in this listing is that G K Tulsian is listed as one of its four directors. Details of his association with other companies are also listed on this website.[22]
There are at least six Aditya Birla Group companies that Tulsian is associated with, including Aditya Birla Money Limited, Aditya Birla Power Company Limited, Aditya Birla Commodities Broking Limited, Aditya Birla Retail Limited, and Birla Telecom Limited. Of interest is that Tulsian is the name mentioned by hawala operator Jula Ram as the one who gave him the money in Mumbai to be handed to Saxena in New Delhi.[23] Also of interest is that Saxena said that one of the coded heads under which unaccounted cash entries were made was "Mr G K Tulsian." Under this head 6 crore was entered between 26 October and 18 December 2010, Saxena said. This amount was then transferred to another account coded as "HQ."[24] He describes Tulsian as an employee of Grasim Industries Ltd, an Aditya Birla Group company. Tulsian, thus, pops up as a Grasim employee, as the person who handed over unaccounted cash to a hawala operator in Mumbai for transfer to Delhi, as a director in Sunbeam, the company whose unaccounted cash Amitabh took charge of in the ABMCPL office on Parliament Street, and as a person associated with a clutch of other Birla companies.
The report says that Sunbeam owned up to 34.63 crore as undisclosed income, which was in Amitabh's custody.25 These suggest that there may be a chain that links the Aditya Birla Group to Sunbeam, to hawala transactions, to Amitabh, to Saxena, and so on.
The DRI Connection
The Birla Papers contain printouts of several emails that ought to interest an investigator. There is one in January 2013 from Bhuvan Chandra, who reported to Shubhendu Amitabh, that refers to ways of retrieving incriminating material and peddling influence on the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), a premier investigating wing of the Ministry of Finance, Government of India. It speaks of "preventing DRI investigations business operations of other group companies" and restricting a DRI probe into "iron ore only."
DRI officials would support our contention in Settlement Commission and request for settlement directives. Thereafter, we need to get back all the electronic devices and records from the possession of DRI to avoid any other action by any other agency. As per the arrangement, all records, electronic devices and other evidence would be returned to us. We can destroy the evidence immediately thus avoiding further penal action by any other agency which may be detrimental to our interests.
Another email from Chandra to Amitabh in July 2012 talks of DRI officers investigating a case of under-invoicing "seeking undue favours leading to precipitation of matters." There is talk here on how to scuttle probes, weaken investigations, and how they could go all the way to the "TOP." An April 2013 email from Chandra to Amitabh talks of how the "DRI would return evidence, not share its findings with other agencies, and bury the matter as they too would be exposed." There is a reference to the DRI letting the Aditya Birla Group "go with a rap on the knuckles" in an investigation into fake invoices.
A January 2013 email from Chandra to Amitabh lists five names of key officials, including Y Kumar of the Central Board of Direct Taxes, who is described as "Linkman and trusted aide of TOP." A September 2012 email from Chandra to Amitabh refers to deals with the DRI on limiting damage by limiting official information. It also lists officials who were likely to be appointed to top positions in the union finance ministry before they were appointed. All these mails have a code "Tourists," presumably for the DRI. An April 2013 email from Chandra to Amitabh talks of success in reducing penalty, "doctoring statements," and how "friendly officials trusted by the DRI and the Aditya Birla Group would complete obligations" and "take back records."
Birla Chairman's Diwali Gift List
An interesting email from K V Sunil (dated 16 October 2010), who reported to Amitabh, offers insights into whom Kumaramangalam Birla wanted to send Diwali gifts. It is a detailed list with subheads and is from the 201011
period with the subject line "Chairman's listDiwali gifts." The first subhead is "politicians": Manmohan Singh, Sonia Gandhi, Ahmed Patel, Pranab Mukherjee, A K Antony, P Chidambaram, S M Krishna, Kamal Nath, Anand Sharma, Veerappa Moily, B K Handique, Digvijaya Singh, Motilal Vora, Kapil Sibal, Salman Khurshid, Sri Prakash Jaiswal, Prithviraj Chavan, Jairam Ramesh, Shashi Tharoor, Sachin Pilot, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Jitin Prasada, Milind Deora, L K Advani, Nitin Gadkari, Venkaiah Naidu, Narendra Modi, Jaswant Singh, Arun Jaitley, Sushma Swaraj, Dina Nath Mishra, Amar Singh, Mamata Banerjee, Dayanidhi Maran, Kanimozhi, Sharad Pawar, Praful Patel, Lalu Prasad Yadav and Prem Chand Gupta.
The second subhead is "bureaucrats" and lists the [then] Cabinet Secretary
K M Chandrasekhar, T K A Nair prime minister's office [PMO], Christy Fernandez (secretary to president of India), G K Pillai (home secretary), Ashok Chawla (finance secretary), Sunil Mitra (Department of Revenue), R Gopalan (Department of Financial Services), P Umashanker (power secretary), Javed Usmani, Shatrughan Singh (PMO), Vini Mahajan (PMO), I S Chaturvedi (PMO), C Balakrishnan (coal), V Vijayakumar (mines secretary), Nirupama Rao (secretary, external affairs), Ajay Shankar (secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion), Rahul Khullar (secretary, commerce), Alok Perti (additional secretary, coal), P Dilipkumar (director general, forests), one Mahajan (joint secretary, coal), D S Chowdhary (private secretary to the coal minister), Alok Singh (private secretary to the corporate affairs minister) and I C P Kesasi (joint secretary, power).
A third subhead is "important target audience": Vincent George (10, Janpath), one Madhavan (10, Janpath), Mr Pillai (10, Janpath), and from the PMOMr Bala, Mr Punar, Mr Sundaram, |Mr Sudhankar, Mr Parmar. The last name in this list is Mr Mahajan (PS to Ahmed Patel).
This list shows how the Aditya Birla Group already had Narendra Modi in sight when he was Gujarat's chief minister in 201011.
Fight of the Lawmakers
While the court battle was on, two lawmakers clashed on the BirlaSahara Papers outside court. Rahul Gandhi announced that he had "bulletproof" information on the "personal corruption of Prime Minister Modi" and that there would be a political earthquake if he (Gandhi) spoke on it (Ansari 2016). Subsequently, Gandhi referred to the BirlaSahara Papers as his source. Modi then ridiculed Gandhi as a youngster "learning to speak" and that he was glad "there was no chance of earthquake" (Pandey 2016).
Ordinarily, this might come across as routine banter between politicians of opposing political parties. But this was no ordinary context. The BirlaSahara Papers seemed to indicate serious corruption and bribes in high places. The appeal to have them investigated was dismissed based on a law from 1872. Gandhi is an important lawmaker and Modi is the principal lawmaker in India. On them rests the task of forming and amending laws like the Indian Evidence Act. What they say and do, thus, becomes an important marker.
It is more incumbent on Modi to ask for an inquiry. In his 2014 election campaign, Modi spoke of a "Jayanthi Tax," a reference to the alleged bribes paid to Congress politician Jayanthi Natarajan during her stint in the Ministry of Environment and Forests (Times of India 2014). The Birla Papers refer to a 7.5 crore payment to "Project JMinistry of Environment and Forest." If the Birla Papers were good for Jayanthi Natarajan, they ought to be good for Modi too. The source is the same.
Conclusions
One day soon, Indian lawmakers would have to expand the scope of Section 34 of the Indian Evidence Act of 1872 so that it reflects contemporary times and business practices. This would then enable courts to adjudicate differently from the Supreme Court dismissal of the Common Cause appeal. The dismissal was about the nature of the evidence and not about the case itself. And then, other aspects of the case that came before the BirlaSahara Papers are alive: that of the CVC's integrity, the allegations of impropriety in coal block allocation, and so on. It should be remembered that the raid on the Aditya Birla Group company took place when the coal block allocation scandal was being investigated by the CBI under the direct supervision of the Supreme Court.
Also, the Supreme Court order hardly establishes the innocence of the Aditya Birla Group and the Sahara Group. Corporate ethics and the aggravating nature of relationships between top business groups and the legislature are important factors in how modern India is being shaped. On the face of it, therefore, there appears to be enough material to recall what the two-judge bench ruled.
Notes
[1] Email communication with the author, 2 February 2017.
[2] The EPW had published an article by Paranjoy Guha Thakurta (2016) detailing the alleged payments made by the Sahara Group and asking whether Modi received over 55 crore from them when he was Gujarat's chief minister.
[3] http://rajasthanjudicialacademy.nic.in/docs /3_s1.pdf (viewed on 28 February 2017).
[4] Page 23 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, answer to Question 27; p 25 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, answers to Questions 40, 43.
[5] Pages 2324 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, answers to Questions 29,30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39.
[6] Pages 2627 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, answers to Questions 45, 47, 48, 49, 50.
[7] Page 27 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, answer to Question 51.
[8] Pages 5254 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
[9] Pages 31, 4649 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
[10] Page 50 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, para 8.2.1.
[11] Page 51 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
[12] Page 62 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, sub-section 8.3.
[13] Page 84 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, sub-section 8.3.2.
[14] Page of Appraisal Report 277, 282, Vol I.
[15] Page 86 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
[16] Page 102 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
[17] Pages 11415 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV, answers to Questions 12225.
[18] Page 105, Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
[19] http://www.nbfc.biz/List.aspx?ct=NBFC&pnm=Kolkata&page=527 (viewed on 28 February 2017).
[20] http://www.nbfc.biz/details.aspx?typ =SUNB EAM%20TRADING%20&%20INVESTMENTS %20PRIVATE%20LIMITED, viewed on 28 February 2017.
[21] https://www.zaubacorp.com/company/SUNBEAM-TRADING-INVESTMENTS-PRIVATE-LIMITED/U67120MH1997PTC253259, viewed on 28 February 2017.
[22] https://www.zaubacorp.com/director/GOPIK RISHNA-KRISHNA-TULSIAN/00017786, viewed on 28 February 2017.
[23] Page 48 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
[24] Page 38 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
[25] Page 55 of Appraisal Report, Vol IV.
References
Ansari, Javed (2016): "Evidence against Modi Bullet-proof, Rahul Gandhi Assures Congress MPs," India Today, 15 December, viewed on
28 February 2017, http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/narendra-modi-rahul-gandhi-bulletproof-evidence/1/835160.html.
Balaji, R (2013): "Top Court Berth Eludes Judge," Telegraph, 31 August, viewed on 28 February 2017, https://www.telegraphindia.com/ 1130901/jsp/frontpage/story_17298108.jsp#.WLV4j9J 97IV.
Bhushan, Prashant (2017): Twitter post, 25 January, 3:40 pm, viewed on 28 February 2017, https://twitter.com/pbhushan1/status/82419775 4113167360?s=03.
CatchNews (2017): "SC Buries SaharaBirla Payoffs Case: 'No Probe on Basis of Flimsy Evidence,'" 11 January, viewed on 28 February 2017, http://www.catchnews.com/yahoo/india-news/sc-buries-sahara-birla-payoffs-case-quot-no-probe-on-basis-of-flimsy-evidence-quot-1484147848.html.
Common Cause v Union of India (2017): "Interlocutory Application Nos 3 and 4 of 2017 in Writ Petition(Civil) No 505 of 2015," judgment pronounced by Supreme Court on 11 January, viewed on 28 February 2017, http://judis.nic.in/supremecourt/imgs1.aspx?filename =444 8 6.
Central Bureau of Investigation v V C Shukla (1998): SCC, SC, 3, p 410.
Guha Thakurta, Paranjoy (2016): "Did Modi Receive Over 55 Crore from the Sahara Group as the Chief Minister of Gujarat?" with the assistance of Advait Rao Palepu, Economic & Political Weekly, Vol 51, No 47, viewed on 28 February 2017, http://www.epw.in/journal/2016/47/web-exclusives/did-modi-receive-rs-55-crore-sahara-group-gujarat-cm.html.
Press Trust of India (2016): "Kalikho Pul's Forensic Report Shows He Committed Suicide, Says Senior Cop," NDTV, 21 October, viewed on 28 February 2017, http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kalikho-puls-forensic-report-shows-he-committed-suicide-says-senior-cop-1477400.
Sarin, Ritu (2017): "Sahara Gets Immunity, Tax Panel Accepts Its Claim That Seized Papers Not Evidence," Indian Express, 5 January, viewed on 28 February 2017, http://indianexpress.com/article/india/sahara-gets-immunity-tax-panel-accepts-its-claim-that-seized-papers-not -evidence-kejriwal-rahul-gandhi-raid-445 9535/.
Pandey, Alok (2016): "No Chance of Earthquake Now That He Has Spoken, PM Narendra Modi Taunts Rahul Gandhi," NDTV, Deepshikha Ghosh (ed), 22 December, viewed on 28 February 2017, http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-counter-after-rahul-gandhis-charge-both-in-uttar-pradesh-today-164057 5.
Times of India (2014): "'Jayanthi Tax' Derailed Crucial Projects: Modi," 13 January, viewed on 28 February 2017, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Jayanthi-tax-derailed-crucial-projects-Modi/articleshow/28719671.cms.
Venkatesan, V (2000): "Of a Code of Conduct," Frontline, Vol 17, No 4, viewed on 28 February 2017, http://www.frontline.in/static/html/fl1 704/17041320.htm.
The European Union is seeking to counter the US President Donald Trump on his plan to tighten implementation of the 2015 Iranian nuclear agreement, hoping to convince him to stick to the deal. EU leaders are planning to present alternative solutions to their American counterparts in the coming weeks. However, President Trump has repeatedly criticized the deal and his administration has its own view on the agreement. EU policymakers, however, believe that if they proactively come up with solutions and B-plans, they will demonstrate their responsiveness to Mr. Trumps concerns.
The options that Europeans are now considering include, for example, stepped-up inspection of Iranian activities or stricter interpretations of key provisions of the accord, whose aim is to prevent Tehran from getting a nuclear weapon. However, although Brussels is trying to show its flexibility, Washington and Brussels might collide over the future of the Iranian deal, some analysts fear. The test of what will happen to the deal will come in May when President Trump will have to decide whether to extend Barack Obamas executive waivers that he had used to suspend some restrictive sanctions.
Meanwhile, Congress has started preparing new legislation that could expand sanctions over Irans activities in the region and charges of Iranian support for terrorism and of human rights abuses. Although the EU generally agrees that the nuclear deal does not preclude restrictive measures for other issues, they fear that Washington wants to impose economic pressure on Tehran. So far, the United Nations International Atomic Agency (IAEA), which oversees the Iranian nuclear deal on the ground, reported that Iran has been complying with the deal.
Illustration: Pete Ellis
There are few topics Abdul Hafiz Mansour will not address, but ask him if his line of work regularly makes him the target of threats and he will likely fall silent.
That should come as no surprise. As the head of Lebanons Special Investigation Commission (SIC), the countrys anti-money laundering unit, Mansour is seen as an enemy by those who have sought to use Lebanons financial institutions to hide illicit funds. Just last year, the SIC froze more than 60 bank accounts and investigated hundreds of suspicious transactions.
Asked again if he faces pressures because of his work, Mansour replies, evasively: Sometimes the nature of the business puts you through situations.
A stocky, austere man, Mansour meets Euromoney in early February, at a conference in Dubai dedicated to the fight against financial crime in the Middle East and north Africa.
As the head of the Middle Easts first anti-money laundering unit, he is well-known to the conference delegates: regulators, lawyers and bank compliance officers from across the region. The unit he leads is said to be the most powerful in the region.
Paraguays finance minister Santiago Pena
This year Paraguay is marking the 100th anniversary of the birth of one of its most famous writers, Augusto Roa Bastos, who once described his landlocked country as: An island surrounded by land. The small Latin American country, with a population below 7 million, has long been overshadowed by its large neighbours of Argentina and Brazil.
Paraguays finance minister Santiago Pena remembers attending a lecture on Latin America by economist Jeffrey Sachs as a post-graduate at Columbia University. He says Sachss lecture covered all of the Latin American countries before closing with the briefest remarks about Paraguay: About which he said he wouldnt give any details because he simply didnt know any. So you can either get upset about that or you can try to reverse this.
The country has been attempting the latter. It re-entered the international markets in 2013 with a $500 million 10-year bond and has been a regular issuer since (including a $1 billion 30-year benchmark in August 2014).
Santander Brasils CFO
Angel Santodomingo
Angel Santodomingo, Santander Brasils CFO, has had a ringside seat for the latest round of consolidation in the countrys retail banking sector. As HSBC and then Citi put their Brazilian retail operations up for sale, the Spanish-headquartered bank (although it is listed in Brazil) participated in both auctions. It was not to be successful in either of its bids, with the countrys two dominant private-sector banks each taking one apiece.
Analysts had been quick to point out that either would have been better for Santander, which is currently ranked third-largest private bank with its 12% market share, than it was for Itau or Bradesco. For these domestic players, neither acquisition can be labelled transformational.
But as Santodomingo greets Euromoney on the 27th floor of a shiny tower that casts its shadow over one of Sao Paulos newest, most expensive and not coincidentally emptiest shopping malls, he appears far from dismayed at being priced out of these opportunities for acquisitive growth.
Argentina wants to bring in regulations that will encourage Latin Americas private bankers to register to operate in the country.
The countrys securities commission, the CNV, is proposing to create a new financial classification of global investment adviser agent (agente asesor global de inversiones or AAGI). The motivation behind the move is to formalize the participation of foreign-based wealth managers, many of who operate across the border in Uruguay.
Once the AAGI becomes official (the CNV is still working out what the minimum requirements will be for authorization), foreign-based private bankers will be able to operate freely in Argentina, subject to local registration and taxation.
Miguel Sulichin, Advise
Miguel Sulichin, CEO and senior investment adviser at Advise Wealth Management based in Uruguay, says he is already looking at a big Argentinian acquisition to take advantage of the liberalization of the countrys broking laws.
We are waiting on both the senate and the congress to pass the law that would allow companies to provide wealth management advice, he says. We are also talking to large banks and investment managers (operating in Argentina) to provide their clients with investment allocation advice, while they continue to provide the custody services. They have no real appetite to deliver advisory as it brings them more risk than its worth which is where we come in.
Local lift
The CNV is drafting the new regulation with the explicit aim of enabling those wealth managers operating in Uruguay (and elsewhere) to participate in their local market by requiring registration and taxation. It will likely boost the local market for banking talent and office space, as well as encourage foreign exchange flows.
Argentinas successful 2016 tax amnesty led to an influx of private-client wealth into the country, and more is expected to follow in 2017. According to government statistics, almost $100 billion was declared by Argentine nationals in 2016, which provided the state with 1.3% of GDP in extra revenue. An additional $20 billion to $30 billion was expected to be declared in early 2017, according to Bank of America Merrill Lynch. That would add another 0.3% of GDP for this financial year.
According to Sulichin, most of the money that was declared was being held in Switzerland and did not negatively impact the private banking market in Uruguay. Last year Advise also bought a domestic Uruguayan operation, Global Wealth Management, as part of the markets continued domestic consolidation.
We expect the Argentine economy to grow at between 3% and 4%, says Sulichin, who adds that his firm saw a 20% increase in wealth management mandates in the last 12 months. Plus, now the money from the amnesty is clean, there is a huge opportunity to incorporate that AuM into the private banking industry.
Its already been two years since the signature of the Minsk 2 ceasefire agreement in Eastern Ukraine, yet the lack of genuine diplomatic advances at the last Normandy Format meeting in Munich speaks volume about the reality of the conflict in Donbas.
Forget about the Donbas coal blockade. Forget about the Artemenko scandal. Forget about the February 18 recognition of Peoples Republics passports by Russia. Not that these events are not important they are. Its just that they represent a setup to the bigger picture: the conflict in Eastern Ukraine is freezing up, Minsk 2 is stalling, and everybody seems to be happy and content about it.
Clausewitz would probably not approve but the fog of war surrounding the conflict in Donbas is still thick and heavy on many aspects, in three areas in particular.
First, military and tactical aspects. The battle of Avdiivka (January 28-February 5) perfectly embodies the current situation along the contact line in Donbas. For the past few months, both sides have been assertively trying to resorb the negative consequences of the Minsk 1/Minsk 2 conundrum by nibbling on the frontline for lack of a better word through targeted military operations aimed at gaining control of contested territory. Whereas Kyiv acknowledges the Minsk 1 (September 2014) frontline as the valid one, Russia insists on keeping the separatists territorial gains enshrined within Minsk 2 (February 2015). As two frontlines (un)officially exist, the situation cannot advance other than through low-level military escalation along the contact line, constant ceasefire violations, and tactical nibbling. This situation seems to rule out, at least for now, any potentially massive offensive coming from one side or the other aimed at changing the present status quo.
Second, the diplomatic side of things. If the war in Donbas is slowly freezing, conflict resolution at Minsk 2 has already reached an ice age. After several months of fruitless negotiations, the dialogue is completely mired, without any real hope the situation can be unlocked, due to maximalist positions and an unwillingness to compromise on both sides. The heart of the problem lies in the diverging narratives and interpretations of the sequence of implementation of the agreement. Kyiv insists on the prioritization of the implementation of the military clauses (withdrawal of troops and heavy weapons, a full and comprehensive ceasefire, and access to the border). Moscow and its separatist proxies seeks to impose a political settlement of the conflict and enshrine a special status for Donbass and the organization of local elections into Ukrainian law. Hence, both parties do not speak the same language nor do they compute on the same level of understanding. Without unwanted compromises, no advances will come from this stalemate.
Third, in terms of any possible evolution of the situation, both Ukraine and Russia offer competing narratives and have divergent expectations. Externally, Kyiv is operating a victimized persona, clearly playing for time in order to foster increased international assistance and generate overall interest and sympathy for the fate of Ukraine. Internally, the country at least in the Rada and among politicians is divided into three major currents that cancel each other out in terms of influence: those wanting to fight until full military victory; the disillusioned proponents of soft capitulation and compromise with Russia; and the positivists seeking isolation or de-occupation of Donbass [1] in order to pass the poisonous pill to Russia.
Moscow is using the full spectrum of its grey area diplomacy (namely the use of the territorial control as a weapon and the instrumentalization of separatism therein) and its shrewd knack at piloted chaos to fulfill its strategic objectives in Ukraine: keep Kyiv away from Euro-Atlantic structures. One might also wonder to what extent the war in Donbass is simply just a smokescreen aimed at shifting the attention of the international community away from the annexation of Crimea.
Ultimately, what could be the future of the conflict in Ukraine?
As the Minsk 2 process is now merely a self-sustaining diplomatic fiction, it has consequently become pointless; but it has also become indispensable. The present status quo and neither war nor peace scenario is benefiting everybody, including the international community, as it justifies its lack of deeper involvement.
The question remains whether Donbas will be inscribed into geopolitics textbooks as yet another frozen conflict in the post-Soviet space, certainly as a category of its own but alongside the likes of Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Transnistria or Nagorno-Karabakh.
Yet, talking about a Transnistrization of the conflict would be too much, or at least too early. The present neither war nor peace situation can go on for years, at least until the Kremlin decides that giving back the deadweight separatist territories to mainland Ukraine will not endanger its aforementioned strategy on Ukraine namely keeping Kyiv weak and away from NATO and the EU.
One thing is certain: conflict settlement in Donbass and the full implementation of Minsk 2 would be an inverted Pyrrhic victory, namely whoever will inherit the separatist territories will, in fact, have lost the conflict. The implementation of Minsk 2 will not mechanically bring a natural form of stabilization and pacification of Donbass. The region will undoubtedly remain a source of insecurity and instability. Certain political conditions of settlement such as political amnesty for separatist leaders, if applied, as well as the financial cost of rehabilitation and reabsorption might be prohibitory high, especially for Kyiv. The human cost of addressing grievances, starting confidence-building measures, and altogether healing a wounded country might also prove too much to bear.
****
[1] Pushed forward by the Samopomish party in the Rada, the deoccupation plan for Donbas envisions passing a law on occupied territories that would legally recognize the freezing of the conflict and subsequently stop any exchanges with the separatist entities by isolating them from the rest of Ukraine. This move aims at transferring the responsibility of the territories directly onto Russia.
The opinions articulated above represent the views of the author(s), and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Leadership Network or any of its members. The ELNs aim is to encourage debates that will help develop Europes capacity to address the pressing foreign, defence, and security challenges of our time.
Despite a minor dive to $1240, Bitcoin is holding close to lifetime highs of around $1280, a price that sees the crypto-currency now cost more than gold.
Since breaking out to new lifetime highs on 23 February, BTC has not looked back and has clocked seven consecutive closes above the previous highs as of March 01.
Speculation regarding the approval for the Bitcoin ETF is fuelling the rally.
What is the need for a Bitcoin ETF?
Over the years, cryptocurrencies are gaining widespread acceptance in the mainstream economy, with bitcoin being the most popular. Introduction of the bitcoin ETF makes it easy for the retail investor to grab a share of the bitcoin rally without having to worry about finding the legitimacy of the website offering a trading account and a vault to keep the bitcoins safe.
Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss have proposed a $300-million fund, the Winklevoss Bitcoin ETF (NYSEBATS:COIN), to allow the retail investors hassle free entry into trading bitcoins. If the Securities and Exchange Commission awards the approval, one can expect the IPO to come within a matter of a few months.
The ETF will follow the model used in SPDR Gold Trust ETF (NYSE Arca: GLD). With every investment, the fund will buy and store the bitcoins securely and charge a management fee for their services.
A SEC hearing is necessitated because the Winklevoss ETF is for a digital commodity unlike the usual practice of a physical commodity like gold or oil.
Two other proposals by bitcoin ETF candidates the Solid X Bitcoin Trust and the Bitcoin Investment Trust (OTCMKTS: GBTC) are pending with the SEC for approval.
Bitcoin expert Vinny Lingham, who serves on the board of the Bitcoin Foundation believes that the timing is not right for a bitcoin ETF, especially when the bitcoin is hitting new lifetime highs on a daily basis.
"The role of the SEC is really to protect the public," Lingham wrote in a recent blog post.
"I don't think that allowing an ETF as Bitcoin reaches the previous all-time high is a good idea, especially given the risks that Bitcoin still faces," reports Money Morning.
However, the markets certainly believe that the SEC will award the approval. Either way, we will know the result latest by March 11, hence, trade carefully with very close stop losses.
its no different from working as an employee in that there is no registration of any sorts required. As an independent contractor (self employer) you will likely be given a T4A from your client and you file taxes ay the end of the year. Thats all that will be required from you. If you earn more than $30,000 CAD in a year then you will be required to register with Canada Revenue Agency for GST/HST if the service you provide is taxable. Depending on your province and again the service you will be required to collect PST.
Registration comes in if you decide to incorporate your business, in which case the process varies by province.
Hi guys,
I have booked my theory driving tests for class 1(car) and class 6(motorcycle) in the coming weeks. The next steps for me would be to book for practical tests, i have been told by numerous people that people intentionally fail in spite of following all the rules.
Is there any specific testing center you recommend for the practical tests, please do let me know.
Hello,
I am on a quota work permit that will eventually expire. I am wondering if it is possible to apply for a new critical skills permit from inside South Africa. Does anyone have experience with a similar situation?
Additionally, I have also been told by an immigration consultant that if I do apply from within South Africa I will need to provide "compliance letters" with regards to my current quota work permit. Unfortunately I do not have such letters, but I have remained in the same position with the same company for which my original quota permit was issued, for the duration of my permit. Can I supply such confirmation in hindsight? It would be easy to prove...Is such confirmation even a requirement for Critical skills?
Finally, I was told that if I leave and apply from outside of South Africa, that such compliance letters are not required. Anyone familiar with this?
Thanks in advance.
London is now cheaper for businesses locating their employees from overseas due to Brexit, offering significantly better value than New York and Hong Kong, new research has found.It means that the gap between the UK capital and a second tier of cheaper cities including Paris, Tokyo and San Francisco is far less pronounced, according to the study from international real estate firm Savills. This time last year London was the most expensive world class city for international businesses to rent office and living space for their employees, but the devaluation of sterling means it now ranks closer to Paris and Tokyo.This leaves the two most expensive cities for expat employees, New York and Hong Kong in a league of their own with much higher accommodation costs at US$111,900 and $105,400 respectively with London in third place at $88,800.The impact of Brexit, driven by the fall of Sterling means that London is now 10% cheaper for accommodation costs per worker than it was in December 2008, the Live Work index shows.At the same time, Hong Kong has continued to close the gap on New York, as new stamp duty charges implemented in November encouraged more people to rent rather than buy and caused a demand shock and living and working costs increased by 4% in the second half of 2016.New York remains twice as expensive to locate employees as in rival US city of Los Angeles and 71% pricier than San Francisco. Similarly, Hong Kong is well over twice the price of rival Asian world class cities Singapore and Shanghai.The gap between London and Paris has closed from over $24,000 per person per year to under $14,000. However, Dublin and Berlin, both often cited as potential post Brexit alternatives to London, still represent savings of over $40,000 and almost $60,000 respectively, and this despite robust rental growth in Dublin across both residential and commercial sectors.The real test of whether a city is good value for occupiers lies in how productive an organisation can be in that city and how competitive a city is in attracting human capital to its job market, said Yolande Barnes, director of Savills World Research.In many cities, the cost of office accommodation pales into insignificance against the cost of personnel and residential rents will impact wage demands, hence the inclusion of housing in our live-work index, she added.On average, residential costs make up 75% of the total accommodation costs recorded in the survey and in some cities, like Dubai, Dublin and Paris, they are over 84%.While accommodation costs are only a small part of a companys decision making process when choosing where to locate teams of staff, this analysis is a guide to the shifting relationship between world cities on an annual basis, Barnes explained.Cities may become more or less competitive on a short term basis but it is their long term costs that need to be taken into consideration when signing leases or building accommodation, she pointed out.For successful organisations, business location is a long term play, not a short term decision so sound business fundamentals are of course far more important than decisions based on the cost of accommodation at a given point in time. Londons relative advantage may be eroded if sterling rallies but our view is that the appeal of London as a world city will continue, she concluded.
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Three companies have raised $1 billion to build a 730-mile oil pipeline from the heart of West Texas to the Gulf of Mexico in Corpus Christi in what would be the states longest pipeline since at least 2008.
The EPIC pipeline which stands for Eagle Ford, Permian, Ingleside and Corpus would transport upward of 440,000 barrels per day of crude oil and condensate out of the Permian Basin Shale field to the Corpus Christi region when it comes online in the first quarter of 2019.
Additionally, Eagle Ford connections could add upward of 150,000 barrels of capacity, bringing the total to 590,000 barrels a day.
The Permian production is growing at an incredible rate with lots of money being spent on acquiring acreage, and the rig counts continue to grow, said Jeff Dorrow, the vice president of business development for TexStar Midstream Logistics, the lead company on the project.
The pipeline to the port in Corpus Christi is necessary since the refineries in the Houston market all are full, Dorrow said.
The port has become increasingly important as U.S. production takes off. Almost $1.5 billion in oil was exported out of Corpus Christi last year, according to the website U.S. Trade Numbers.
The ports website says more than 29.7 million tons of crude oil was outbound from the port in 2015, which would equal more than 217 million barrels for the year or 600,000 barrels of oil a day.
With Texas drilling more oil than it can handle, the next barrel thats going to be produced is going to hit the water and be traded on the water borne market, Dorrow said. Corpus is the shortest distance and the most effective way to get a barrel from the Permian into an on-the-water.
The Sand Hills Pipeline, built by Denver-based DCP Midstream in 2011, is almost as long at 720 miles. It carries natural gas liquids from West Texas through South Texas, ending near Houston.
The EPIC pipeline is more than half the size of the Keystone XL pipeline extension that TransCanada Corp. has been trying to build since 2012. Keystone would be 1,179 miles long and would transport a maximum of 830,000 barrels of crude oil a day from Canada into Nebraska once built.
The EPIC pipeline project is being developed by San Antonio-based midstream company TexStar, Texas-based midstream company Ironwood Midstream Energy Partners and Stamford, Connecticut-based commodities trader Castleton Commodities International. Ironwood maintains its engineering and operations in Dallas, with business development and finance units in San Antonio.
Calls to Castleton were not returned.
Dorrow said the companies have obtained at least 10 percent of the right of way and that Castleton has permitted and engineered a brand-new waterborne terminal at the Port of Corpus Christis Inner Harbor. The terminal will have upward of 1 million barrels of storage capacity in addition to a 3 million-barrel storage facility near Taft, on the north side of Nueces Bay.
Construction is set to begin in June and is scheduled to be completed by March 2019.
The project is being funded by private equity investors, but Dorrow would not say who or what institutions may be involved.
An open season has been declared for bidding on the first 200,000 barrels of pipeline capacity that will be closed in the next 45 days. The companies are meeting with at least a dozen oil producers whom Darrow wouldnt identify, citing confidentiality agreements.
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.
The new pipeline will be the second Permian Basin-to-Corpus Christi regional project. Houston-based Plains All American owns and operates Cactus Pipeline, which moves 250,000 barrels of oil a day and is expanding to 390,000 barrels per day.
Jarl Pedersen, the chief commercial officer for the Port of Corpus Christi, said the EPIC pipe would more than double crude oil coming into the area.
Its great for us, for the port because we strongly believe that we have to find more flexibility for market access for oil from the Permian, Pedersen said.
The EPIC pipeline could export crude from the marine terminal in Corpus Christi or the terminal in Ingleside or feed it into one of the areas refineries.
It will run a batch system, meaning it will transport and store two types of crude from the Permian and one from the Eagle Ford, Dorrow said.
This is different than other pipelines such as ones running through Cushing, Oklahoma, a major oil and gas hub where incoming oil can be mixed with other crude types, potentially leading to dilution of the product.
San Antonio-based NuStar Energy operates crude oil pipelines and storage terminals in Corpus Christi, and the majority of the crude oil inputs come from South Texas Eagle Ford Shale play.
The company has seen declining usage as Eagle Ford production has slowed over the past year along with declining oil prices.
rdruzin@express-news.net
USAA recorded a historic year for catastrophe-related insurance claims in 2016, but the storms didnt dampen compensation for some of its top executives.
CEO and President Stuart Parker received more than $2.7 million in pay from four USAA insurance companies last year, up nearly 19 percent from about $2.3 million in 2015, figures reported this week to the Nebraska Department of Insurance show.
Parker received a salary, bonus and other compensation from four USAA property and casualty insurance companies that report to the Nebraska agency. They are USAA, USAA Casualty Insurance Co., USAA General Indemnity Co. and Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Co. He receives additional money from the companys investment services and banking operations that isnt publicly disclosed.
USAA Life Insurance Co. also reports executive compensation figures to Nebraska, but Parker wasnt among the listed executives.
Other USAA executives had big increases in pay from the four property and casualty companies, as well.
Chief Operating Officer Carl Liebert collected about $2.2 million in pay from those companies last year, a nearly 21 percent increase from his 2015 compensation of more than $1.8 million.
Alan Krapf, former president of USAA Property and Casualty Insurance Group, was paid $3.5 million last year a 42 percent increase over his 2015 compensation of $2.5 million. Krapf has been serving as special assistant to Parker but previously announced plans to retire early this year.
Wayne Peacock, who had been executive vice president of enterprise strategy and marketing before succeeding Krapf last summer, received almost $2.2 million in pay last year, up 29 percent from $1.7 million in 2015.
As stewards of a member-focused organization, USAA maintains strong governance and controls over its executive compensation program, USAA spokesman Roger Wildermuth said in a statement.
In Nebraska, where USAA conducts insurance business, the law requires public disclosure of insurance company executives pay.
USAA recently reported that its employees received a 16.8 percent annual performance bonus for 2016, a slight decline from the 17 percent award in 2015. It was the lowest payout since 2008. Eligible workers receive the extra pay as a percentage of their base salary.
At the time, the company said its 2016 financial performance one of the components used in calculating the bonus was impacted by several factors, including what it described as a historic year for catastrophe-related insurance claims.
Claims climbed 2 times last year over 2015, due in part to hailstorms in San Antonio and Colorado and Hurricane Matthew, which battered parts of the southeastern U.S. The company, which provides financial services to about 11.8 million members, has yet to report its 2016 financial results. It services veterans, active military and their families.
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Wildermuth said its in USAAs best interests to pay our employees and executives appropriate appropriately so we can recruit and retain the best talent.
USAA has about 30,000 employees, including 18,000 in San Antonio.
Parker took the helm at USAA in March 2015. He succeeded Joe Robles, who retired after a more than 20-year career at the company.
Records show USAA paid Robles a $535,632 bonus last year. His compensation package included some deferred pay. In 2014, his last full year on the job, Robles was paid more than $7.8 million from the companys insurance divisions.
Parkers compensation from the four property and casualty companies included almost $400,000 in salary and a $1.8 million bonus last year.
pdanner@express-news.net
Twitter: @AlamoPD
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Ricardo Romo is no longer president of the University of Texas at San Antonio, choosing to retire early just two weeks after he was placed on administrative leave during an investigation into his conduct.
I have been made aware that the manner in which I embraced women made them uncomfortable and was inappropriate, Romo said in a statement Friday. I understand and respect Chancellor (William) McRavens concerns about my behavior, and I deeply apologize for any conduct that offended anyone.
In a longer statement issued later, Romo called the embraces abrazos and indicated that he would have liked to apologize to the women who were offended personally.
That I had no improper intent giving or receiving abrazos is of no consequence, he said in the statement. If they were thought improper and offensive, then they were, and but for a prohibition in contacting anyone involved, I would have already directly apologized.
The announcement that Romo was retiring effective immediately instead of in August, as had been announced last year, was made by Steve Leslie, executive vice chancellor for academic affairs for the UT System.
Pedro Reyes, formerly the UT-Austin special assistant to the chancellor, will continue to serve as president until the university finds a replacement. Leslie said the university still plans to hire the next president by fall.
Romo was placed on leave Feb. 14 pending a review of allegations related to his conduct. Several sources close to the investigation said the review was related to sexual harassment allegations. UT System spokeswoman Jenny LaCoste-Caputo said the Office of General Counsel has closed the investigation. She declined to discuss details.
At the time he was put on leave, Romo said he looked forward to clearing his name.
Sources previously told the San Antonio Express-News that Romos chief of staff, Sonia Martinez, was placed on leave along with the president. They also said two staff members had been fired earlier, possibly in retaliation for some unnamed action, but were subsequently rehired. No information about Martinezs situation or the other two staff members was available Friday.
On Friday, Romo wrote off any accusations beyond unwanted abrazos as falsehoods and rumors. He said he had been prepared to wage a legal battle had he been accused of anything beyond that.
The chancellor is correct in establishing that there is no abrazo exception for a 73-year-old retiring university president. I accept that this is the world we live in. But he has taken no action giving any false rumor or accusation credence. This I would have fought without hesitation, he said in the second statement.
Romo had announced in September that he would retire in August after 18 years as head of UTSA. After retirement, he had planned to work for a year with the Institute of Texan Cultures as director of the Texas History Center. In his statement, Romo said he would no longer assume that position. Instead, he said, he would continue assisting with San Antonios World Heritage designation efforts and the citys upcoming Tricentennial Celebration.
Falsehoods did not drive my decision to retire now. I made it clear to the chancellor that I was not afraid of the truth, and that I would not run from a lie, he added in his second statement.
Last month, community leaders close to Romo told the Express-News that they were shocked by the allegations and said they would continue to support Romo. They also said they were disappointed by how the UT System had handled the situation.
Judge Nelson Wolff said Friday that he contacted Leslie to let him know his disappointment with how the whole process was handled.
Being so close to retirement, I thought he should have been able to retire and, well, thats what theyve done today. If thats what they had done to start with, it would have been better for everybody, he said.
Wolff is a close friend of Romo and remains loyal. Romos acknowledgment of embraces in the workplace made Wolff question whether the whole complaint was overblown.
I dont think its inappropriate to hug anybody. I do that all the time, women and men, he said. Its a tradition in the Hispanic community that you do that. The first thing you do when you come up to somebody is put your arm around them and give them a hug. Now, if theres anything else beyond that, I dont know. Its just a tradition, one that I participate in.
Theres nothing wrong with a hug. My god, if we get that far in society, we may end up never talking to each other, Wolff added.
Wolff said Romo told him they were harmless hugs, the result of a cultural miscommunication, and that he believes Romo.
But again, I dont know what the other side is. Theres always two sides to every issue, he said.
Meanwhile, Bonita Roberts, a St. Marys University law professor who specializes in sexual harassment, said there shouldnt be hugs or excessive touching in the workplace.
Im not talking about a pat on the back or shaking hands, but an embrace or a hug is readily misconstrued, regardless of the persons intent, and that can lead to what you might call unintended consequences, she said.
All employees ought to remember that behavior that is socially acceptable outside the workplace might not inevitably be appropriate inside the workplace, she added.
Wolff said Romo is still the same man he knew.
I hope to be able to get together with them soon and have dinner, he said.
On campus Friday afternoon, several UTSA students said they were shocked by the allegations and Romos apology. Junior Daniela Ruiz said she thought that it was appropriate for him to step down, considering the nature of the complaints and the effect they would have on campus culture if he had stayed.
Senior Ivan Cuervo said he had always perceived Romo as a friendly president with good intentions. Over his four years at UTSA, he said, he observed the school strengthen its academics, adding that he hopes the allegations do not tarnish Romos legacy.
Its just sad to see him go this way, Cuervo said.
In a statement released Friday, McRaven, the UT chancellor, thanked Romo for his 18 years of service to UTSA and credited him with changing the culture of education in San Antonio.
I wish him all the best, McRaven said.
lcaruba@express-news.net
sfosterfrau@express-news.net
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A federal judge denied bail Thursday to Sara Richford, who is charged with helping a man accused of robbing and shooting a mail carrier Feb. 11 and then shooting at pursuing law officers in the days that followed.
Magistrate Judge John Primomo found Richford, 26, a danger to the community. Suspect Bradley AHearn, 22, had been ordered held without bail last week.
The judge delayed ruling on bail for a third suspect, Piper Lee, 40, who is accused of helping Richford and AHearn three days into their alleged rash of crimes.
Federal agents revealed new allegations against Richford and Lee. Richford told investigators that she shot at pursuing officers during a car chase Feb. 13 as AHearn drove the wrong way on U.S. 281 while also shooting, Postal Inspector Robert Strande testified.
She said she got caught up in the moment, Strande said.
Including the officers return fire, more than 15 shots were fired before the pursuit was halted out of safety concerns, according to testimony.
Strande also said an officer identified Lee as having shot at police along with AHearn from a getaway vehicle during another wild pursuit Feb. 14 on the North Side. Lee shook his head in disagreement.
That chase lasted at least 20 minutes, left bullet casings near MacArthur High School and sent a bullet through a window and into a TV at a Jims Restaurant on Broadway, according to testimony.
Previously, authorities had alleged that AHearn, alone among the three, had done the shooting during the Feb. 11 robbery and the subsequent gunbattles with officers.
Lees lawyer, Don Flanary, objected to postponing his bail hearing, which Primomo said was to allow prosecutors to amend their criminal complaint. Primomo said the complaint appeared to charge Lee with being involved in the shooting of the mail carrier. But the judge also said he had heard no evidence to support that.
Primomo asked why state prosecutors didnt charge Lee for allegedly shooting at officers Feb. 14.
They could have charged him with attempted capital murder, from what Ive heard here, Primomo said.
The U.S. Postal Service mail carrier was shot in the legs in the Comal County community of Spring Branch during a robbery and carjacking. On Thursday, federal investigators, as they had at earlier hearings, placed AHearn there with Richford and said both were at the two other crime scenes.
Strande testified that Lee joined the pair Feb. 14 and drove them in a car that the trio abandoned at North Star Mall, eluding a police dragnet with a timely ride from a friend of Richfords who later told police their hiding place. The three were arrested at a motel on the South Side on Feb. 15.
Previous testimony had revealed that one of the guns the group possessed was given to a man known as Hot Wheels Mike after they left the mall. After prodding from the judge, Strande on Thursday identified the man as Mike Murchison. Inspectors recovered the Glock handgun from Murchison on Feb. 15, and tests show that it likely was used in all three shooting incidents, Strande said.
He said that during a search of Lees apartment, stolen mail was found everywhere inside it.
AHearn and Richford are charged with assault on a federal officer, carjacking, interfering with commerce by violence and mail theft. If convicted of all, they could get sentences totaling 65 years if theyre stacked.
Three people were arrested, two on warrants, after one man allegedly kidnapped his former spouse and their child during a hand off Wednesday evening in a South Side parking lot.
Jesus Longoria, 26, was charged with aggravated kidnapping, theft of a vehicle, and possession of a controlled substance, according to Bexar County records. His bail totaled $95,000.
San Antonio Police Department Sgt. Tom Alonzo said police were called after the 23-year-old woman and her child, under 3 years old, were kidnapped at about 7:45 p.m. from a parking lot at 3150 Southwest Military Drive.
Witnesses told police that Longoria had refused return one of their children to the woman during the exchange. He was then seen grabbing the woman and dragging her to into a 2004 Silver Jeep, according to Longorias arrest warrant affidavit.
The woman could be heard screaming and yelling for a friend who accompanied her to call police.
While the woman was in the car, she was able to text her friend for help, police said. Her friend told police that they were near Omaha Street on the East Side.
Two hours later, a disturbance was reported in the 100 block of Omaha involving a Jeep that resembled the one Longoria had been using, police said.
A witness told officers they saw Longoria entering a home on the block, adding that he sometimes stays at the home.
Officers from the East Patrol found the (Jeep), which was in fact stolen and had a weapon inside of it, Alonzo said.
At first, three people were taken into custody as police surrounded the home, he said.
Afterward, three more were placed in police vehicles as officers continued talking to the people inside.
We have to proceed with extreme caution when were dealing with children, Alonzo said. The safety of the victim and the children are our priority.
Longoria, the kidnapped mother and two children, both under three years old, were the last ones out of the house at about 11:45 p.m., Alonzo said.
Police arrested Longoria shortly afterward. He was to be charged with aggravated kidnapping, Alonzo said.
Two of the seven people who emerged, not including Longoria, were arrested on minor warrants, Alonzo said.
jbeltran@express-news.net
Twitter: @JBfromSA
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Mayor Ivy Taylor and Councilman Ron Nirenberg were part politician and part fact-checker Thursday at a mayoral debate, spending some of their time in front of a live studio audience correcting statements made by opponent Manuel Medina.
The three, running for mayor in the May 6 election among a field of 14 candidates, argued over issues ranging from ethics reform to transportation and planning.
At times, Nirenberg attacked Taylor, while she went on the offensive against him. But the two seemed in unison for part of the evening as they both turned their focus to comments from Medina they said were wholly inaccurate.
Referring to himself several times in the third person, Medina repeated his campaign promise that he would lead the way on constructing a commuter rail line between San Antonio and Austin an effort thats been under way by others for more than two decades.
He accused the mayor and council, however, of having been against the plan before coming around to support it after he made it a campaign promise now that theyre in election season.
Taylor bristled at the notion.
I have to step in and correct that. Everything the chairman just said, respectfully, is totally inaccurate, Taylor said, drawing laughter from the studio audience. The city of San Antonio provided funding for Lone Star Rail, to support that organization for many years, and we have been committed to this idea of rail to Austin.
Medina retorted that Taylor was partly accurate, that the city had funded some operating costs for the Lone Star Rail District, but had refused to spend big dollars to move the project forward.
Then Nirenberg, who sits on the board of the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, interjected.
Thats simply not the case, he said, responding to the assertion from Medina, who repeatedly has said he wants to be the transportation mayor, among other things. Even four years ago ... the situation with the funding at both ends of Lone Star Rail was Austin agreed to the planning process and San Antonio agreed to construction.
Everyone along this corridor wants to see this regional rail happen, he said.
When Medina said he would make it happen, Taylor retorted that shed be interested to see how hed accomplish it, given his complete lack of experience in such matters.
During their discussion on transportation, Medina repeated his promise that he would reduce drive times in the citys 50 most-congested corridors by 10 percent, though on Thursday he didnt include a time frame.
He also said he would push Councilman Rey Saldanas proposal to transfer some city dollars to VIA Metropolitan Transit to increase bus frequency on key routes.
Medina also said as mayor, he would push local businesses to increase the number of employees working from home and to change their work schedules to ease congestion during morning and evening rush hour.
Taylor and Nirenberg reiterated their positions on the need for expanded transit options, including various forms of public transportation.
KSATs Steve Spriester, who moderated the debate at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, asked the trio to stake out positions on the so-called bathroom bill currently under consideration by the Texas Legislature. The bill would require people to use the bathrooms associated with their sex at birth.
Its passage would wreak economic havoc in Texas, opponents say. San Antonio likely would lose the 2018 NCAA Final Four, estimated alone to have a $135 million economic impact, city officials have said.
Medina said it appears House Speaker Joe Straus already has largely killed the bill and stated that Republicans oppose it because of its harm to the economy while Democrats reject it on moral grounds.
I havent seen all the details and I dont have all the information, he said of Senate Bill 6. What I do know is Manuel Medina is pro-equality and Manuel Medina is anti-discrimination.
Taylor, meanwhile, said shes been working closely with the Bexar County delegation and Straus along with the local business community to shore up opposition.
Its important that the business community be engaged. We dont want it just coming from the city, she said. Lawmakers need to hear from the business community as well.
Nirenberg used the moment to allege failed leadership by Taylor, saying she didnt make her position clear on the matter until the business community said it would be economically detrimental.
Its also a human issue, he said. We need to make sure we stand up for nondiscrimination as well as negative effects on our community.
jbaugh@express-news.net
Federal authorities in San Antonio have indicted four more alleged members of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club and added charges for the killing of a man in Austin who reportedly tried to start a chapter of the California-based rival, the Hells Angels.
The Bandidos have long been suspected of the hit on Anthony W. Benesh III, who was gunned down by a sniper in 2006 in front of his girlfriend and two children as they left Saccones Pizza in Austin. When the three top Bandidos leaders were arrested last year, an FBI agent testified at a hearing in Houston for Bandidos national president Jeffrey Fay Pike that agents believed that the Bandidos carried out the murder, the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News reported at the time.
The new indictment, filed Wednesday in San Antonio and unsealed late Thursday, puts it in writing. It added San Antonio residents Johnny Downtown Johnny Romo, 47; Robert Romo, 45, Jesse James Kronic Benavidez, 40, and Norberto Hammer Serna Jr., 35, as defendants alongside Pike and the Bandidos national vice president, John Xavier Portillo.
The four new defendants were arrested Thursday three in San Antonio and one in Waco and ordered held without bond pending bail hearings next week. Portillo, 57, of San Antonio has remained in jail without bond since his arrest in January 2016, while Pike, 61, of Conroe, was released last year on bond. Their trial is scheduled for Aug. 7 in San Antonio.
The 12-count indictment identifies Johnny Romo as a national sergeant-at-arms who led a self-described enforcement arm of the Bandidos called the Fat Mexican Crew. The document also says the other three are members of the Bandidos San Antonio Centro Chapter, and identifies Benavidez as its sergeant-at-arms, a title that has carried out duties including being an enforcer, prosecutors have said.
The indictment charges the four new defendants with one count of discharging a firearm during a murder in aid of racketeering. Johnny Romo and Robert Romo are also charged with murder in aid of racketeering.
Benesh had been wearing a Hells Angels riding vest despite being told by the Bandidos that he could not do so in Texas, which is Bandidos territory, and that he would be killed if he didn't stop, the indictment said.
In a news release, the FBI, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Attorneys Office said the four murdered Benesh on March 18, 2006, to protect the power, reputation and territory of the Bandidos enterprise.
The Bandidos and Hells Angels are decades-long rivals and Hells Angels are forbidden from setting up chapters in Texas the same way Bandidos can't open up shop in California.
It is the second killing the feds have pegged on the Bandidos. The indictment also added new charges against Portillo of discharging a firearm during a murder in aid of racketeering for the slaying of Robert Lara in January 2002 in Atascosa County. Authorities said Lara killed Javier Negrete outside a San Antonio bar in October 2001.
Pike and Portillo are accused of directing, sanctioning, approving and permitting members of the Bandidos to carry out racketeering acts including murder, attempted murder, robbery, assault, intimidation, extortion and drug trafficking to protect and enhance the organizations power, territory, reputation and profits.
If convicted, all defendants face up to life in prison.
A San Antonio couple pleaded guilty Thursday to defrauding immigrants out of thousands of dollars that the pair used for luxuries that included prime Spurs tickets and designer shoes.
Eric Jon Alva, 39, and Jessica Rivas Alva, 37, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire theft and aggravated identity theft in a hearing before U.S. District Judge Xavier Rodriguez.
The pair admitted that between March 2015 and May 2015, they conspired to collect legal fees from incarcerated immigrants and their families using false pretenses. They face a maximum of five years in prison and up to $10,000 in restitution when Rodriguez sentences them in June.
Released on bond pending sentencing, the couple smiled and hugged outside court, but had no comment.
In April 2015, the Alvas faxed forged letters using the names and Texas State Bar numbers of two San Antonio lawyers to enable Jessica Alva to gain access to two immigration jails in Louisiana, prosecutors said in a news release. While at the jails, Jessica Alva met with detained immigrants and offered to have the attorneys provide legal services for a fee, the release said.
The immigrants families were instructed to pay those fees by depositing money in the Alvas bank accounts. Jessica Alva was not an attorney and was not working for either attorney at the time she made the false statements, the release said.
And at the time, she was prohibited by a Bexar County judge from entering any immigration facility unless she was accompanied by a lawyer for whom she worked. The pair also admitted that, during telephonic immigration court hearings for a detained immigrant, Eric Alva impersonated one of the San Antonio lawyers and claimed to represent the immigrant.
In 2015, a state district judge found that by accessing the jails and falsely claiming to work for immigration lawyers, Jessica Alva violated a 2014 injunction that stemmed from prior misrepresentations to immigrants. That judge found her in criminal and civil contempt and ordered her jailed for 18 months. She was also ordered to pay $1,500 for her violations of the injunction, $997,500 in civil penalties, and $5,450 in restitution, court records show.
gcontreras@express-news.net
Twitter: @gmaninfedland
The Cibolo City Council has given the green light to a Dallas firm that hopes to construct and operate a toll road called Cibolo Parkway leading south from FM 1103 in town to Interstate 10.
Although criticized by some locals and the group Texans for Toll-Free Highways, most residents are taking a wait-and-see attitude on the project thats far from a certainty at this point, Mayor Allen Dunn said Thursday.
The development agreement approved by a 6-0 city council vote on Tuesday clears the way for the would-be builder, Cibolo Turnpike L.P., to commission feasibility studies on the proposed seven-mile, four-lane expressway that would align with the existing FM 1103.
If the studies support proceeding with it, the firm could then solicit investors to fund the $125 million project, which could open to traffic as soon as 2020.
What were doing is helping them finance this road so their tax revenues can be used for other needs like water, sewer and police protection, said John Crew, company president.
Traveling the full distance in a private vehicle would cost $2 to $2.50 in tolls, according to preliminary estimates.
The firm would split revenues with the city after reaching a certain level of net income from tolls, according to people familiar with the 50-year agreement, which city officials said would be released publicly once last-minute amendments are incorporated into it.
The way this works is the city owns the road and all of the facilities associated with the road that are constructed as part of this project, Dunn said. The only things Cibolo Turnpike is getting out of this is the right to develop and operate it and collect tolls.
He added, Its very important for people to know that the city is not putting one red cent into this, and that any expenses the city has incurred to this point will be reimbursed. No local, state or federal taxpayer money is going into this project.
The new toll road would constitute the long-planned southern leg of FM 1103, which currently runs from Interstate 35 to just north of FM 78, for which the city has unsuccessfully tried for years to secure state funding to construct.
Although the city has committed itself to the venture, Dunn said the development agreement allows Cibolo Turnpike LP to walk away if the feasibility studies dont justify the project or if inadequate commitments are received from investors.
Crew and Dunn both disputed claims made by Texans For Toll-Free Highways in a press release issued Wednesday.
It accused city officials of keeping the project secret from the public before Tuesdays vote, of approving the project out of desperation for economic development and of seeking with the project to drive farmers off their land to allow construction of big-box stores.
This little town got completely out-lawyered, Terri Hall, president of the anti-toll group, said Thursday.
The only way the project could be stopped now is if Crews own feasibility study convinces him to halt it or discourages investors, but those feasibility studies always suffer from severe optimism bias, she said. He wouldnt lay down his money until he got an ironclad agreement that he wouldnt lose money when the local (opposition) gets too hot.
Dunn said the new road, which has been part of the citys thoroughfare plan since 2006, is needed to expedite traffic flow and to open up additional southern areas for development in the fast-growing city of nearly 30,000 residents.
Were doing something to alleviate traffic, not just the traffic that is here today, but what we know is coming in 20 or 30 years, Dunn said. Right now, if youre going to get out of Cibolo, youre pretty much stuck in traffic going to I-35, and only back country roads connect to I-10.
Besides building and operating the toll road, Cibolo Turnpike LP also plans to seek state permission to add two center express lanes to the existing northern leg of FM 1103, which the Texas Department of Transportation plans to soon expand from two to four lanes.
Although the proposed express lanes would not be tolled, they would in combination with the new toll road provide a direct link from I-35 to I-10.
Such a cut-through also would promote economic development, Dunn said, noting, Theres a lot of land for sale south of FM 78, but people arent buying it because you cant get to it.
Crew, who is also president of the Texas Turnpike Corp., said he made several concessions during closed-door negotiations to secure the city commitment.
They wanted a buyout clause so, if at any point at time they wanted to take it over, they can do so, he said. They also have exclusive rights to determine where the road path is, so it comports with the city thoroughfare plan.
The agreement removed the political risk so I can make a $12 million investment in soft costs and the feasibility studies, he said, estimating the studies will be done in seven months.
Crew said he expects to spend $30 million to add the two center lanes to the existing FM 1103, if TxDOT approves of that plan. Were fixing to meet with them shortly, he said Thursday.
Staff Writer Bruce Selcraig contributed to this report.
zeke@express-news.net
This election is different for John Courage.
In the past, Courage, a school teacher and longtime Democratic Party activist, had serious political ambitions. He carried those ambitions into two failed City Council races, two unsuccessful challenges to U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith and a 2012 loss in a state Senate race against Donna Campbell.
But as Courage approaches his 66th birthday and comes to the end of his 27-year teaching career, he's just a civic-minded North Side resident who wants to serve. Along those lines, Courage is trying to elbow his way into a crowded District 9 council race that features 10 candidates, resigned to the fact that this will be his last race if he falls short.
Before we consider the meaning of Courages underdog bid, we need to recognize two important facts about this plain-spoken Air Force veteran.
First, no San Antonio political candidate has ever been blessed with a more perfect surname. Courages name always felt like a divine gift to the makers of campaign signs.
He put that name to use most memorably in 2006, with a campaign slogan that tied his opponent, Smith, to the unpopular Republican administration of George W. Bush and Dick Cheney: Bush needs a brain, Cheney needs a heart and Congress needs Courage.
Second, no San Antonio political candidate has been so consistently cursed with an ideology at odds with the voters he needed to reach.
Time after time, Courage found himself trying to sell an unabashedly progressive agenda in a conservative district. Thats true again this year, as he campaigns in a district that has elected a string of fiscal-hawk Republicans such as Carroll Schubert and Elisa Chan.
Courage, however, believes that ideology and party preference are irrelevant in a council race that comes down to transportation, public safety and other basic needs.
It is a conservative district, no doubt about it, Courage said. But when it comes to city politics, I dont think the nature of the conservatism is the same. Is there a Republican or a Democratic way of filling in a pothole?
Courage said he drifted into the race after hearing that District 9 incumbent Joe Krier did not plan to seek another term.
I thought to myself, Courage said, Who do I know who lives in the north-central part of San Antonio whos been active in the community, whos pretty well known? I looked around and didnt see anything.
Courages presence guarantees District 9 a wild smorgasbord of candidates beyond anything that the district has seen in recent years. Youve got the chamber favorite (Marco Barros), the state legislative aide (Lynlie Wallace), the former military doctor (David Doc Cohen), the retired dentist (Bert Cecconi), the libertarian-leaning Republican (Patricia Gibbons), the Planned Parenthood-hating social conservative (Patrick Von Dohlen) and the mental-health clinician (Sandra Martinez-Deyarmond).
Courage, who teaches Technology and 8th-grade History at Little Flower Catholic School, made his strongest run in 1989, when he garnered more than 39 percent of the vote in a District 10 council race against incumbent Jimmy Hasslocher.
Some political watchers see Courages current candidacy as part of an effort by mayoral candidate Manuel Medina, the Bexar County Democratic Party chairman, to create a slate of like-minded council candidates. Courage, however, says he has not endorsed anyone in the mayors race and decided to launch his own campaign before he knew Medina was running.
He also differs with Medina on a key issue: revenue caps. Medina has favored the concept pushed by Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick as a way to bring tax relief to local property owners. But Courage shares the position held by city leaders, that revenue caps would stymie local control and cost the city much-needed revenue during boom years.
Courage also talks about incentivizing growth on the South Side, to reduce overcrowding at North Side schools and create more balance in school-district funding. He says there is too much group-think on the council, and too little willingness to question the recommendations of City Manager Sheryl Sculley and her staff. He defines himself as an independent voice who will question assumptions.
I would be a good neighbor for the people in my community, he said. The kind of guy that you can talk to over the fence about whats going on in your neighborhood.
If the talk centers on potholes and not party affiliation, Courage just might have a chance.
ggarcia@express-news.net
Twitter: @gilgamesh470
Spring begins the busiest time of year on the farm. Summer is chaos. Fall harvest is hectic. Winter is when farmers wrap-up the current season and plan for the next. We may spend less time on outdoor chores in winter, but we stay busy indoors; working on the farm business, networking at Ag conferences, and improving our skills with education.
Life on a farm is often referred to as the simple life. Agriculture evokes pleasant images of amber waves of grain, farm kids bottle-feeding a baby calves, and country folks passing time on the front porch. Make no mistake, there is simplicity in unpretentious life on the farm, especially when compared to commuting in back-to-back traffic to cubicle city, but referring to farming as simple is simply false.
Farming can be hard, stressful and lonely work. Long hours take a toll on family life. Low margins threaten our livelihood. Farmers are business people whom wear many hats. We are producers, marketers, finance officers, veterinarians, packers/processors, customer service representatives and distributors. We must navigate complicated food safety regulations, volatile markets and farm labor issues. Finding work-life balance on the farm is as big of a challenge as it is in other occupations.
A lifehack is a tip that makes life easier and more efficient. A time-flow worksheet, turning busyness into bonding, and support from family and friends are three farmhacks that can help you find balance in work and life on the farm.
Farmhack #1. Time-flow worksheet
Time management experts suggest identifying tasks, prioritizing, and scheduling time to work on each task. The system works in a controlled office environment, but not on the farm. On my farm in southern Ohio we make hay while the sun shines when the forecast shows three dry days of weather in a row.
Grain farmers say the same. Harvest consumes every minute of fieldwork days in fall. One farmer told me he might as well sleep in the tractor during harvest, because a few hours of sleep is really not worth the drive home before hes back at it.
A time-flow worksheet can help. I made a time-flow worksheet from a cash flow template. I modified the worksheet by replacing the word cash with time, and listed critical tasks under the months I will accomplish them. The result is a snapshot of my workload throughout the year. The time-flow worksheet helps me identify potential breaks when I can plan trips or events, and potential problems when I need to find help to prevent burnout.
Farmhack #2. Turn busyness into bonding
Farming is not a typical 9-5 job. There is always something requiring our attention on the farm. Plants and animals do not take weekends off, so we dont either. Instead of letting busyness take a toll on family life, I turn busyness to bonding.
On New Years Eve my husband promised hed take me out on a real date the kind you put-on clean jeans for. While enjoying our restaurant dinner, he used his phone to log-in to the barn cameras and saw one of our animals having difficulty giving birth. Our date ended before dessert.
A similar situation occurred this spring when I splurged on rodeo tickets at Nationwide Arena and planned a night out in downtown Columbus. Unfortunately, we had to cut that date short to treat an animal for mastitis. We spent the evening taking turns applying cool compresses and massaging a goat udder with Vics Vapor Rub.
Instead of stewing in disappointment, we turned busyness into bonding. We celebrated the birth of New Years twins, and the full recovery of our dairy doe. Often my husband and I reflect that we are building the farm together and willing to make sacrifices for it. I believe our marriage is made stronger by busyness we tackle together.
Farmhack #3. Support from farm family and friends
Support from family and friends makes farming possible. At a recent Ag conference, a farmertte and mother of three told me, My mom and dad have the kids tonight. The other set of grandparents will take them tomorrow night. We are lucky to have a great family that watches the kids so we can attend conferences and focus on the farm business.
Our neighbor offers assistance hauling our hay wagons from field to storage so we can keep baling. A friend volunteers his teenage son to help us stack bales. Family friends drop-off food on long hay-days when we dont have time to make ourselves a nourishing meal. Their encouragement keeps us working hard.
Relationships are a two way street. It is important to add value to others lives when they add value to ours. We return the favor by sharing labor and equipment with fellow farmers. We offer assistance with breakdowns and sick animals any way we can ease the difficulties of farm life.
Finding work-life balance on the farm is a challenge, but a time-flow worksheet, turning busyness to bonding, and support from family and friends are three farmhacks that help, and give greater meaning work and life on the farm.
We think weve got a great product that tastes great and it is so nice when customers say the same thing this is a really nice independent endorsement of the product when more than 14,000 customers across Australia have voted us the best gluten free product, Mr Wiese said.
Sir Patrick Stewart is applying for US citizenship so he can protest against President Donald Trump.
Sir Patrick Stewart
The British actor - who has lived in America for several years - is strongly opposed to the viewpoints of the new commander-in-chief but understands he can't make his voice heard in any significant way unless he undergoes the process to be recognised as a legal member of the country and plans to do so in order to "fight and oppose" the Republican regime.
Asked on 'The View' about a "fairly innocent" tweet he posted last month while staying in Washington D.C. - in which he stated he had the "worst sleep" he'd had but was "less than 300yds" from where the President sleeps - he said: "I did not directly insult your president."
Co-host Whoopi Goldberg interrupted to say: "Not mine."
The 76-year-old actor replied: "He's not mine either. We have our own problems. We have Brexit.
"I'm not a citizen. However, there is, maybe it's the only good thing as the result of this election: I am now applying for citizenship because I want to be an American too, because all of my friends in Washington said, 'There is one thing you can do. Fight, fight, oppose, oppose.' But I can't do it because I'm not a citizen."
The 'Logan' star - who has two children from his first marriage and wed third spouse Sunny Ozell in 2013 - likes to make fun of himself on social media but also sees it as a platform for making "serious" statements and has no desire to stop using Twitter any time soon.
He told The Rake magazine: "Of course, there is an individual in the United States who is giving Twitter a very bad name, but I think it would be a narrow-minded point of view to stop because of that.
"What I do on social media -- a lot of which is with the support and advice of my wife, who has a much more intensive and surefooted way of understanding social media than I have -- is meant for humour and for storytelling, and occasionally for making statements that are serious and on which we hope to have an impact."
Kit Harington has been announced as the face of Dolce and Gabbana's latest fragrance.
Kit Harington
The 30-year-old actor is the representative of the luxury Italian brand's new male scent titled The One, and the star will feature in the designer label's beauty campaigns in September this year.
The news of the 'Game of Thrones' star's upcoming venture was announced on social media by the fashion house.
Alongside a picture of the dark-haired hunk, which was shared on the Dolce and Gabbana Instagram account, it read: "The British actor #KitHarington will be the new face of Dolce&Gabbana's fragrance line #DGTheOne for Men starting September 2017 #DGBeauty (sic)."
The brand's founders and fashion designers Domenico Dolce, 58, and Stefano Gabbana, 54, have praised the British star for being the ideal figure to represent the brand because he is "young, naturally charming, charismatic" and has a "rich personality".
Speaking in a statement about the star, the creative masterminds said: "Kit Harington is exactly how we see the Dolce & Gabbana man: young, naturally charming, charismatic, with a personality rich in traits."
And they believe there is "no other face" more suitable for the position and to helm the labels campaigns.
They continued: "There could be no other face for The One for Men."
Kit will follow in the footsteps of fellow actors including Matthew McConaughey, 47, who previously fronted Dolce and Gabbana's fragrance commercials.
Meanwhile, the heartthrob, who is dating Rose Leslie after the pair met on set of the American drama series, found it "easy to fall in love" with his 30-year-old girlfriend.
When asked what his favourite series of 'Game of Thrones' to shoot was, he said previously: "Because the country [Iceland] is beautiful, because the Northern Lights are magical, and because it was there that I fell in love.
"If you're already attracted to someone, and then they play your love interest in the show, it becomes very easy to fall in love."
Screenwriter Chris Roessner teams with director Fernando Coimbra to bring new Netflix original movie Sand Castle to streamers across the globe later this year, with stars Nicholas Hoult (Mad Max: Fury Road), Henry Cavill (Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice) and Logan Marshall-Green (Spider-Man: Homecoming) leading the cast.
Credit: Netflix
Built on the foundations of Roessners real life experiences in Iraq, the film aims to present an honest look at the Second Gulf War, told through the eyes of a group of American soldiers fighting on the front line. Netflix have revealed the first official trailer for the movie, which you can see below:
Hoult plays Private Matt Ocre, a man whos sent with several other soldiers to the outskirts of Baqubah to repair a water pumping station damaged by American bombs. The journey ahead however is a dangerous one, with resentment and anger festering in areas the soldiers simply want to help. Here, he and his colleagues will discover the true cost of war.
Beau Knapp (The Nice Guys), Glen Powell (Everybody Wants Some!!) and Neil Brown Jr. (Straight Outta Compton) also star.
Sand Castle comes exclusively to Netflix around the world on April 21, 2017.
by Daniel Falconer for www.femalefirst.co.uk
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Buckingham Palace's 360 million repair bill be footed by the government, a temporary committee of MPs have decided.
Buckingham Palace
The Royal family will also reportedly benefit from their income being doubled after it took the group of politicians - named the Seventh Dedicated Legislation Committee - just 13 minutes to debate the funds being released.
The only party members to object against the decision was Tommy Sheppard and George Kerevan from the Scottish National Party.
According to Independent newspaper, Sheppard said: "We cannot support this decision and this statutory instrument being passed in this way.
"It is not a suggestion that Buckingham Palace is not a public asset of historic importance that deserved to be preserved.
"What we object is using a change in the Sovereign Grant to pay for an infrastructure project. If a major investment of 400m needs to be made, then that should be treated as a separate capital project.
"It would be similar to saying the works that needed to be conduced at the Palace of Westminster should be funded by doubling the salary of MPs and asking them to make a contribution."
Works on the property, which was built in 1703, are expected to start next month and will see the royal residence's refitted with 100 new electric cables, water pipes, electrical sockets, lights and thousands of new radiators.
Last year, Queen Elizabeth was urged to foot the bill for the renovations herself.
A petition of more than 100,000 people was signed demanding the 90-year-old monarch pay for the repairs, which will take 10 years to complete.
The campaign called 38 Degrees was headed up by Mark Johnson, who feels more money should be spent on education and health care rather than the upkeep of the royal residence in London.
He said: "There is a national housing crisis, the NHS is in crisis, austerity is forcing cuts in many frontline services.
"Now the Royals expect us to dig deeper to refurbish Buckingham Palace."
Several MPs have also had their say on whether public money should be spent on the project.
Labour shadow business secretary, Clive Lewis said: "I think the Queen could contribute quite a bit towards that - she's one of the wealthiest people in the country. Why not?"
A final decision is to be announced next week, with the SNP's objections and a potential 'deferred vote' not expected to change the plan of action.
Sir Ken Dodd received his knighthood on Thursday (02.03.17).
Ken Dodd
The 89-year-old veteran comedian from Knotty Ash in Liverpool, was honoured by Prince William at Buckingham Palace for outstanding his career his dedication to his art and his charity work.
Sir Ken - who found fame playing Diddy Men characters in the 60s and is known for his unruly hair and protruding teeth and his red, white and blue "tickling stick" - quipped that he felt "highly tickled" to be knighted by the Duke of Cambridge.
According to the Daily Mirror newspaper, he said: "Being a Sir is a curious feeling ... I feel the same. But It's lovely for my family and friends. I'm delighted and highly tickled."
The celebrated performer - who is now officially named Sir Ken Dodd - became popular in the 60s in the UK with his recording of Tears', which was the UK's third-best-selling single back then, rivalling The Beatles.
Sir Ken, who became an OBE in 1982, is still seen touring the country with shows which are famous for going on well past the curtain call.
Talking about his passion for performing live, he said: "One of the happiest things is the joy and pleasure it brings to your family and friends and then you say to yourself it is a great honour and I just hope I'll be worthy of it."
And he has vowed to continue performing despite turning 90 in November.
He said: "I won't hang up my tickling stick up, till I have to."
Meghan Markle has joined boyfriend Prince Harry in Jamaica for a close pal's wedding.
Meghan Markle
The 'Suits' actress will be introduced to the 32-year-old royal's inner "circle" of friends including groom, Tom 'Skippy' Inskip, who is marrying his agent fiancee Hon Lara Hughes-Young.
The flame-haired hunk flew from London's Gatwick airport to Montego Bay on Wednesday (01.03.17) and the 35-year-old beauty flew in last night (02.03.17) in time for the wedding, which is being held at a luxury 1,600-a-night resort, which has been sealed of just for guests of the groom and bride today (03.03.17).
A source told the MailOnline: "This the first time that she and Harry have socialised so openly as a couple and is a significant step up in their relationship.
"Make no mistake, he is heads over heels about her. This one could go all the way."
Harry - who is reportedly Tom's best man - and Meghan are believed to be staying in one of the pool-side villas on the resort and will have the option to order in breakfast by their own staff over the weekend.
It comes following rumours that Harry is set to propose to the brunette beauty by the "end of summer".
The couple have been dating for almost a year, and sources close to the pair believe he will pop the question later this year as they have openly discussed taking their relationship to the next step.
Speaking about the couple's relationship, a source recently said: "They will be engaged by the end of summer. [They] have spoken candidly about their future. They see a life together."
And Meghan has admitted she will have to move to London in the future because her beau will not be able to "uproot" to her hometown in Toronto.
The source added: "Meghan feels a move to London is inevitable. It's not like Harry can uproot."
The Disney Channel new animated series DuckTales will be coming to fans later this year, with Broadchurch and former Doctor Who actor David Tennant stepping into the recording booth to take on the iconic role of Scrooge McDuck. Disney Channel have today released some first look images from the show, which also showcase Huey, Dewey and Louie, voiced by Danny Pudi, Ben Schwartz and Bobby Moynihan respectively.
David Tennant voices Scrooge McDuck
Marc Buhaj, Senior Vice President of Programming and General Manager at Disney XD comments: Fans around the world are eager and were looking forward to introducing viewers to the all-new DuckTales. This early season two order is a testament to the quality work the creative team, led by Matt and Frank, and the cast are delivering.
Disney Channel have also released an exciting 90-second first look trailer for the series, which you can check out below:
Matt Youngberg serves as executive producer on the series, with Francisco Angones as story editor and co-producer, and Sean Jimenez as art director.
Kate Micucci voices Webby Vanderquack, with Beck Bennett as Launchpad McQuack and Toks Olagundoye as Mrs. Beakley.
Looking to recapture the original magic that make the DuckTales series such a staple of the Disney franchise, these first looks at the new series are very promising. We cant wait to see the show in full later this year.
DuckTales will premiere in the UK on Disney Channel in late 2017.
by Daniel Falconer for www.femalefirst.co.uk
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Despite the drudgery of daily life bogging you down, your paw-some buddy always gives you a reason to smile. However, your constant cheerleader can get also bored with its daily routine; be it life within the four walls, visits to the not-so-great outdoor park, a quick game of ball in the backyard or a leashed walk in the neighbourhood. So, why dont take your buddy on a vacation for a change? Heres how you can plan your travels with your pet:
Before setting out
Neerja Khede, campaign coordinator, PETA India, says, Its important to keep your pets temperaments and travel logistics in mind before you get packing. Dont travel with an ill, injured or pregnant pet. Leave your pet at home with a trusted caretaker.
Cats usually become apprehensive when put into unfamiliar surroundings and so its best to leave them at home.
Doctors visit
A visit to your vet to ensure that your pet is healthy enough is a must. Dr Hitesh Swali, a veterinary physician, shares, You may not be allowed to board without a certificate from a doctor. Its important to consult your vet on travel dos and donts and also about the mandates and list of vaccines that need to be administered prior to the journey.
The destination
While a number of hotels across the country claim to be pet-friendly, most of them cater to dogs. Before finalising on your accommodation, it is important to look up on the policies on animals with hotels, suggests Neerja.
You wouldnt want to finalise a place where your four-legged buddy wouldnt be welcomed.
Mode of travelling
Neerja informs that one can travel with their pets either in the AC first class or first class of the Indian Railways, after reserving two or four berths exclusively. Youll need to put a muzzle on your pet so that they dont disturb or scare their co-passengers.
Airlines offer options for pets to travel in the cabin if they meet certain specifications, or else, via cargo. However, you need to inform the airlines about your pet well in advance.
The perfect crate
Your crate should be IATA approved, have enough room, be durable and have your contact information on it, cautions Dr Swali. Dont forget to equip your pets crate with some of his/her favourite toys and enough water to ensure hydration. Blankets, toys, and treats make for the perfect illusion of a cozy den.
Your best days are the ones when you are a kid and your best friends are those who are always there with you.
Shalaka and I grew up together. We were neighbours and our homes were just opposite each other's. She belonged to an educated and well-to-do family. I would always consider her to be very lucky, the one who got everything in life and that too at the right time. Like any other kid, we also had our share of joys, jealousy and competitiveness. But I always remember her as a strong individual -- mature but at the same time naughty. As we grew up, she turned into a lady who was content, knew exactly what she wanted and did not get into unnecessary competition.
She got married at the age of 23 and moved to the United States. I really missed her during those years. However, as years passed by, I think the distance was well accepted and so was our reality of being busy. I really don't remember if we ever spoke over the phone for years. We briefly met each other whenever she was in India. We both were active on the social networking sites and I did see her enjoying her life to the fullest. I really admired her dedication and will power as she completed CPA and started working for one of the best government organisations in the US. She was a great cook, wife, daughter and a friend. All her friends would miss her presence if she didn't attend any of the get-togethers. I remember meeting her after she lost her father and she greeted me with a smile. I think she was strong-hearted and believed to live in present.
She moved back to India after 10 long years and I didn't find even the slightest of dissatisfaction, regret, or irritation in her even after leaving one of the best jobs or luxuries of life. She still was content and happy and wanted to work for an NGO.
I was happy that she moved to India. During the same period, I got married and she even came to attend my wedding. Post my marriage, I got too busy and didn't meet her even once until she was at the last stage of cancer in the hospital. I remember she asked me multiple times to meet her but I never knew that she was suffering from cancer and was going through a traumatic breast cancer treatment. I met her only when she reached the stage where she was unconscious and breathing her last. I just couldn't accept the reality. I was shocked, horrified and questioned god at least 1000 times.
Just 15 days before she passed away, she had sent me a text message saying, 'It's high time; you have not met me even once after your wedding'.
Even today and probably till I breathe my last, I will live with the guilt that I was not with my friend in her bad times. I can completely understand why she didn't disclose about her illness to her friends, but if I had met her even once in those last 6 months, probably I would have been able to support her emotionally. I think technology has taken over our lives and we assume that staying active on social media means we are in touch. I rarely remember calling any of my friends on their birthdays instead of sending a message to check about their well being.
This episode of my life has made me understand the importance of loved ones and spending time with them. Life is beautiful, especially with all your family and people around. However, sadly many of us understand this when it's too late.
(By Anjali Thorat)
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If you think grief over breaking up is a private, solitary affair, think again. In this age of bare-all, opinion-spewing social media, private has become public. So, apart from online PDA, expect some spectacular display of breaking up on internet as well. In the past few days, two such instances have raised a cyber storm. Recently, social media posts about a "break-up shoot" of a twenty-something ex-couple in the US drew a barrage of comments. Another video, featuring 23-year-old exes who were discussing why they split, went viral. In fact, the latter drew angry, exasperated comments. These make one wonder, do we need to make break-up an online spectacle? Also, what could be the social media etiquette to follow after a break-up? Here are some points:
Should you wash dirty linen in public?
If a break-up has been ugly, experts caution against spontaneous outpouring of hate and abuse against your ex on social media. By doing that, you can get some commiseration, but you are also exposing yourself to ridicule and hate.
Should you stalk your ex on social media?
And demand an explanation? Experts say no. In fact, after a break up, you should 'unfollow' your ex so that you won't be able to see posts from him. That can save you further heartache.
Should you celebrate break-up online?
Often one tends to bombard friends and followers on social with photos of how she is living it up after a break-up. It could be irritating to some while others would regard this excessive show of mirth after a break-up as disingenuous.
Should you make a video?
Videos showing you grieving or discussing reasons for your break-up can be termed ludicrous and mocked at. Channelise your energy into other creative pursuits. Keep yourself busy in your actual social life.
Pleading to get back together
Experts say that after a break-up, you should give yourself enough time to heal. Severing all ties with your ex can be helpful as well. Experts say there's no point in sending missives on social media for a reunion - it can only compound your grief and lead to more despair.
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The Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers (ACIMIT), a private body promoting Italian textile machinery, has announced that its member companies involved in the production of machines for nonwovens are set to participate in INDEX 2017, a leading nonwovens exhibition, from April 4, to 7, 2017, in Geneva, Switzerland, in booth 4145.INDEX is the main trade show for the nonwovens sector. For many Italian textile machinery companies involved in nonwovens sector, the show is usually an occasion to show the most updated technology for nonwovens sector to potential customers.
The Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers (ACIMIT), a private body promoting Italian textile machinery, has announced that its member companies involved in the production of machines for nonwovens are set to participate in INDEX 2017, a leading nonwovens exhibition, from April 4, to 7, 2017, in Geneva, Switzerland, in booth 4145.#
At INDEX 2017, for the first time, ACIMIT and ICE-Italian Trade Agency have organised a meeting point, where 6 Italian machinery manufacturers involved in the production of machines for nonwovens will show their innovative solutions. Among these companies ACIMIT members are Aigle, Durst, Testa, Ugolini, and Unitech.In recent years nonwovens sector has grown on a global scale, much more significantly than the traditional textile industry. The demand for nonwovens items in many end-markets has thus boosted production of technologies, characterised by a high level of innovative content in both end products and production processes. The increased demand for innovative solutions is precisely what enhances the role of Italian textile machinery manufacturers. (GK)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
The first Belarus-Pakistani forum of manufacturers of textile, apparel and footwear goods will be held to offer an opportunity for discussion of joint projects and networking of the international businesses. It will take place on the margins of the BelTEXlegprom Spring 2017 exhibition of textile, apparel and footwear goods from March 29-31 in Minsk, Belarus.
The two countries aim to look at new avenues for bilateral cooperation in the form of joint ventures and investment projects during the forum, according to a Belarusian news agency.
Andrei Yermolovich, Ambassador of Belarus to Pakistan recently met Hassan Iqbal, secretary of the ministry of textile industry of Pakistan to discuss their plans and reached an agreement to organise the forum.
The first Belarus-Pakistani forum of manufacturers of textile, apparel and footwear goods will be held to offer an opportunity for discussion of joint projects and networking of the international businesses. It will take place on the margins of the BelTEXlegprom Spring 2017 exhibition of textile, apparel and footwear goods from March 29-31 in Minsk, Belarus.#
The embassy of the Republic of Belarus in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has also invited Pakistani textile, apparel and footwear production enterprises to take part in the 40th BelTEXlegprom. (KD)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
More than 700 multi-brand outlets (MBO) and retaile chain stores attended the 10edition of a trade fair organised by the Apparel Manufacturers of India (AMI) in Chennai. About 111 brands participated in the event to showcase their upcoming spring summer 2017 collections. Visiting retailers placed orders worth more than Rs 500 million at the show.
The trade fair by AMI, a group of leading apparel manufacturers and traders, was a three-day event that took place in the presence of leading manufacturers and traders of readymade and unstitched garments of men, women and kids.
"We are very glad with the response we have received at our fair this time in Chennai. We had nearly 700 MBOs and retail chain stores attending our event and discussing the industry growth trends. We look forward to organise a garment conclave at a much higher scale and take the trade fairs across different cities. We want AMI to be a platform where members act as catalyst for each other's growth," said Nikhil Furia, key organiser, AMI.
More than 700 multi-brand outlets (MBO) and retaile chain stores attended the 10th edition of a trade fair organised by the Apparel Manufacturers of India (AMI) in Chennai. About 111 brands participated in the event to showcase their upcoming spring summer 2017 collections. Visiting retailers placed orders worth more than Rs 500 million at the show.#
Retailers like T Natarajan of Ram Silks, Pondicherry; the purchase team of Pothys; L Raveendran of S Nallaperumel & Sons, Nagercoil; Prabhuram, purchase head of Arrs Silks, Salem; Sudhakar from Hi Style; Ram, the sole buying agent for Sarvana Stores; Das of Nalli Silks and purchase manager of RMKV were present at the event, said the organiser in a press release.
AMI has already conducted 9 fairs in Kochi, Chennai and Hyderabad and for its 10th fair, it reached out to more than 3500 retailers, MBOs and chain stores across Tamil Nadu.
The association kicked off their first exhibition in January 2015 with the aim of bridging the gap between retailers, agents and suppliers. Its core purpose is 'to grow together' and build a strong network for mutual growth and it believes that entrepreneurs can easily make their dreams a reality if each one helped other, enough to achieve their goals. (KD)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
The US Government is carrying out a required five-year review of the Cotton Research and Promotion Act (Act) Amendments of 1990 to determine whether a referendum is needed on the continuation of these amendments. The government has invited comments from producers, importers and others interested to take a final decision, expected later in 2017.
The US Government is carrying out a required five-year review of the Cotton Research and Promotion Act (Act) Amendments of 1990 to determine whether a referendum is needed on the continuation of these amendments. The government has invited comments from producers, importers and others interested to take a final decision, expected later in 2017.#
The review is being carried out by the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service or AMS. In the referendum, producers and importers would determine whether they favour continuation of the amendments to the Cotton Research and Promotion Order or not.
The US Government is carrying out a required five-year review of the Cotton Research and Promotion Act (Act) Amendments of 1990 to determine whether a referendum is needed on the continuation of these amendments. The government has invited comments from producers, importers and others interested to take a final decision, expected later in 2017.#
Under the Cotton Research and Promotion Act, it is the Cotton Board which administers the national promotion and research programme to maintain and expand markets for upland cotton. AMS monitors the operations of the cotton research and promotion programme.
The US Government is carrying out a required five-year review of the Cotton Research and Promotion Act (Act) Amendments of 1990 to determine whether a referendum is needed on the continuation of these amendments. The government has invited comments from producers, importers and others interested to take a final decision, expected later in 2017.#
The department will accept comments on the matter till April 28, 2017. (SV)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
Wacker Chemie AG, the Munich-based technology leader in the chemical industry, has announced that it is expanding its silicone production at its Jandira site near Sao Paulo, Brazil. The multi-purpose facility for antifoam compounds and functional silicone fluids will help the company to solidify its position as a leading supplier of high-quality silicones.The expansion is Wackers response to growing regional demand for specialty silicones needed in the textile, paper, household and personal care, and cosmetics industry. Investments for the expansion will total around 7 million. While the reactor for silicone fluids is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2017, the plant for antifoam compounds is expected to come on stream by the end of the year. In Jandira, Wacker already manufactures silicone products for the construction, textile and pulp and paper industries.
Wacker Chemie AG, the Munich-based technology leader in the chemical industry, has announced that it is expanding its silicone production at its Jandira site near Sao Paulo, Brazil. The multi-purpose facility for antifoam compounds and functional silicone fluids will help the company to solidify its position as a leading supplier of high-quality silicones.#
The new production complex is a key addition to the Jandira sites supply chain. With the two new reactors for silicones fluids and antifoam compounds, Wacker is able to produce important precursors and starting materials for specialised antifoam, impregnating and release agents and for additives for the pulp and paper, cosmetics, and household care industries.Wacker executive board member Auguste Willems said, In South and Middle America, the market for our silicone solutions is growing, especially in the personal care, household, and textile sectors. In order to meet this increasing demand over the long term, we will extend our production in Jandira. After the completion of the polysilicon production site in Tennessee, the Group has concluded its major investments and is now focusing on plants for intermediates, sales products, and specialty products.Adriano Magalhaes, managing director of Wacker Quimica do Brasil said, With the expanded silicones production in the year of Wackers 40th anniversary in Brazil, we can offer considerable added value to our local customers and partners. The new facility makes it possible to enlarge our portfolio and adapt our products even better to customer needs and local industry requirements. (GK)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
Director : Deven Bhojani
Cast : Vidyut Jammwal, Adah Sharma, Freddy Daruwala and Esha Gupta
Quick take : High on action thriller with a bizarre storyline
Filmfare rating : 2.5/5
Vidyut Jammwal reprises his role here as Captain Karanvir Singh Dogra from the first Commando (2013). While the earlier was a high action romance carrying shades of Rambo, the present film is more on the lines of the Raid Redemption films, what with the hero entering the hide out of the bad guys on several occasions and single-handedly taking out all the goons. From a commando unit, our hero is transferred to a super secret command dedicated to carrying out black ops both in India and abroad and flush out the black money launderers. Given the rhetoric by the present government about bringing back the black money to India, the filmmakers have taken the right emotional track. They have even shown that people in the highest echelons of power are part of the nexus and given a chance, they can reform and turn a new leaf.
The plot has more twists than a jalebi. Writer Ritesh Shah must have developed a headache keeping track of it all at the end of the day. Indian government sends a high level team of officers to bring back a dreaded hawala racketeer from Malaysia. The job of course isn't easy as it sounds but after surmounting innumerable hurdles, being backstabbed at every step and made a fool of by a cunning female, our hero triumphs in the end.
The action sequences are mounted straight out of a first person shooter game, like the Call of Duty. It's shoot, load, repeat all the way with some kung fu kicks and punches thrown in. Vidyut Jammwal shines in sequences where he runs through crowded Bangkok streets Parkour style and almost catches up with the villain's car. His forte also is hand-to-hand combat and there is plenty of that to satisfy the lust of action buffs. The whole film is designed to keep Vidyut's strengths at play and as a result, Freddy Daruwala, who plays a hot-tempered policeman and Adah Sharma, who believe it or faint is an encounter specialist, are short charged. Involving them more in key action scenes would have added variety to the film.
Actor Deven Bhojani, known for his comic timing, impresses with his technical finesse over the action genre in his directorial debut. A little more attention to the plot would have turned it into a far better product than it is right now. But if the ultimate aim is to showcase your hero as a badass killing machine, should you really care about cohesive narration?
critic's rating: 1.5/5
Director: Keshhav Panneriy
Cast: Arbaaz Khan, Manjari Fadnnis, Himansh Kohli, Ashutosh Rana, Rati Agnihotri, Prem Chopra, Supriya Pathak
Quick take: Decent idea killed by shoddy exectuion
Rating: 1.5/5
Theres a difference between, knowing what to make and knowing how to make it. Unfortunately, in the world of cinema, good ideas are laid to waste all too often. Director Keshav Panneriys Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai is a perfect example of that fact. They wanted to make a film where a girl muster up the courage to stand up for herself in a mans world. Not just that, her journey takes her from the limiting environs of rural India to the more globalised setting of the US. While in theory, all of it looks fantastic, the jaded and downright stilted execution makes this well-intentioned movie seem like a major embarrassment.
Even though the idea of a girl proving herself against chauvinism, closeted mindsets and exploitation is cliched, it still retains a certain potential to tell a strongly feministic tale. But Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai chooses to take that concept and set it exotic locations, but apart from that everything about this storytelling effort seems woefully jaded. The screenplay and the editing of this film are frankly substandard. The story depicts Alias (Manjari Fadnis) journey growing up, falling in love, being forcibly married to an elitist chauvinist and then eventually finding her stride in the USA. Along the way, the camera captures some beautiful and exotic locations. Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai certainly looks like a slick film. But the use of dialogue and the design of situations is so passe that you just cant invest any emotion into the movie. The singular idea of a girl proving herself worthy and rightful goes on and on. It doesnt help that the likes of Ashutosh Rana and Supriya Pathak Kapur get such terribly corny lines. These truly great actors are reduced to caricatures thanks to the abysmal writing.
Manjari Fadnis Alia falls in love, nurses heart break and then discovers compassion again. But even that seemingly complete character arc doesnt allow her to rise above the mediocrity of the movie. Arbaaz Khan in a role of the gentleman and the proverbial Knight in shining armour is decent. Though his performances does not make the movie any better. At close to three hours, the film just keeps going on and on. And then you also have to deal with distasteful ideas like men fighting tigers and homosexual people raging on hormones.
Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai turns out to be as uninspiring as its unoriginal name. The only reason someone could sit through this movie is for the pretty visuals and the somewhat average performances of the cast. But even that will require insane levels of patience.
Chairman Nguyen Duc Chung and Ambassador Sugi Ryotaro (Photo: VOV)
Hanoi will work closely with the Japanese Embassy in Hanoi to carry out the sponsorship in the earliest time, he said.
Chairman Chung confirmed that the city paid great attention to preventing fires and natural disasters, especially as climate change leaves more and more negative impacts on Vietnam.
He added he hoped Japan would share more experience and advanced technologies in these areas. Hanoi has studied Japans models of firefighting teams at residential areas, and carried out them at residential areas and apartment buildings, he went on to say.
According to Ambassador Sugi Ryotaro, Japan plans to invite 500 people from 10 ASEAN member countries to Japan to join a training course providing skills on the prevention of fires, explosions, natural disasters and calamities.
The contents of the training course will be recorded in images to be disseminated in each country, according to the ambassador. I hope that Vietnamese students and experts will disseminate the knowledge among communities, contributing to creating a safe living environment for all, he said.
As agreed by the Japanese Government, the Ambassador has chosen some 100 large ladder firefighting trucks to present to Vietnam./.
Have Kareena Become Good Friend With Kangana?
When asked about the same, Bebo said, "Friend' is a term that is used so loosely these days. You are friends with people you've known for years. In the industry, you meet people, socialise and have fun. Having said that, of course, I have met Kangana, and she is a solid person. She is someone I can really relate to. She speaks her mind and heart. I always love people like that."
Kareena, indeed praised Kangana, for her outspoken nature but cleverly hinted that she and Kangana are not good friends!
Kareena On Changing Taimurs Name to Little John
When HT quizzed Kareena about the same, the actress denied the rumours and told, "No. I want to clarify that. How can anyone think that? Why would I call my son Little John? My son's name is Taimur. It is the most beautiful name, and he is the most beautiful and gorgeous man (smiles). And, no, I don't call him Little John. Please address him as Taimur Ali Khan."
Kareena On Getting Too Much Attention
If there's any actress whose name has been trending on the social media from past few months, then it has to be Kareena Kapoor Khan! Ever since, Kareena made her pregnancy official to the date she delivered her baby, the actress is constantly under the eyes of the paparazzi.
Is Kareena Finding It Difficult To Handle All The Attention?
On that, Kareena says, "I have been an actor for 17 years and I know that one should let certain things go. I am happy that people considered it inspiring. It's fine, and I have nothing to shy away from or hide. Of course, everyone wants to have a perfect figure, but I feel it's fine to start working two months after my delivery and look glamorous. That's the way I love it. I am enjoying every phase and every moment of it."
Kareena On Giving More Time To Taimur Than Saif..
"It's an extremely personal journey. It's a relationship that one develops over time, organically. I am still learning the ropes. In fact, Saif says my attention has completely shifted [to Taimur], and keeps complaining about it. I told him maybe [that will be the case] for a while . Now, I don't like leaving home too much," told Kareena.
Kareena On Working With Vishal Again..
"Saif and I have worked with Vishal in Omkara (2006), which is one of Vishal's greatest films. I would love to work with him, and it will be as great a role as the one I played in that film. I am a huge fan of him and his work. I hope we work together soon," said Kareena.
Kareena All Set To Kick-start Her Next Film
In the same interview, Kareena Kapoor Khan also revealed that she will kick-start the shooting of her next film, Veere Di Wedding in May, this year.
Years 1977 and 2002 are interlinked and provide an emotional recollection of incidents to the Kannada Thespian. Wondering what the article is about? Here is the story.
Kannada film industry was blessed with many popular stars during 70s era but it was Dr. Rajkumar who was largely adored, worshipped and celebrated by the film fans. Almost every artist and technician would have constructed a dream of working with "Annavru" (as he was fondly referred to by his fans, well-wishers and most industry insiders) at least once in a lifetime.
Such was the desire of a certain young lad as well who was just a 2-year-old toddler in the film fraternity. The young actor was offered a role for Dr. Rajkumar's Girikanye movie (1977) and the former had no bounds for his excitement and happiness.
Little did he know that he would be disappointed on the first day of shoot as the production house and direction team had other plans which eventually snatched the character from the young actor and was given to an already established actor, Thoogudeepa Srinivas.
Rajkumar, who witnessed the scene was moved by the dejection faced by the budding actor. He called on the latter, took out a small portion of 'Kumkuma' (vermillion), applied it on to the forehead of the actor and said "Don't be disappointed! You will be highly successful in the future. Millions of fans will follow you. You would be inundated with stack of cash. Who knows, I myself might ask for your call sheet one day". Dr. Raj remarked with this piece of motivation to keep up the spirit within him.
The young actor took the advice from his idol and was more than contented to have got the personal attention from the Nata Sarvabhowma himself.
The then young actor was none other than the Superstar of Indian Cinema who is loved by millions and millions of fans across the globe. He also is the second highest paid actor in Asia and his name is RAJINIKANTH!
Yes, Dr Rajkumar's prophecy became thoroughly factual in the year 2002. The Thespian actor's youngest son debuted into the Sandalwood, which created waves and went on to become a blockbuster. To commemorate the success of the movie, Dr Rajkumar's family had requested Superstar Rajinikanth to embrace the occasion as the Chief Guest and the invitation was accepted by the Superstar graciously.
The incident was said to be recollected by Dr. Rajkumar in the mid-2000s during a casual conversation with his close aide, Channa.
We all know both Dr Raj & Rajini are the epitome of simplicity and humility and it was once again proved with these connecting incidents. Rajkumar was modest in consoling and motivating the then budding actor in 1977 and Rajinikanth was modest enough in accepting the invitation cordially in 2002.
Young actor Tovino Thomas is all set to impress the audiences with the exciting projects that he has in his kitty. The actor's Oru Mexican Aparatha has hit the theatres today and he also has one more biggie scheduled for release in the first half of 2017.
Tovino Thomas's next big release will be Godha, directed by Basil Joseph. Now, reports are doing the rounds that the movie might hit the theatres in May 2017. Actor Tovino Thomas himself revealed this during an exclusive interview given to Manorama Online.
Earlier, the movie was planned as a February release and the first posters of the movie suggested the same. But later, they had to push forward the dates owing to the theatre strike.
The shoot of the film has been completed and post-production works of Godha is going at a full swing. The first teaser of the movie was released along with Prithviraj starrer Ezra and it opened to a grand reception.
In Godha, Tovino Thomas will appear as Anjaneya Das, who is a wrestler. Apart from him, the film also features Renji Panicker, Wamiqa Gabbi, Aju Varghese etc., in pivotal roles.
LONDON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
The Global Brands Magazine awards, among the world's most recognized branding awards, announced Institut Jantung Negara as the winner of 'Most Advanced Healthcare Brand in Malaysia for the year 2016'. The awards recognize the institute's excellence in setting a benchmark in offering medical expertise in cardiovascular and thoracic care.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160518/369255LOGO )
Global Brands Awards' honours hospitals that have set a benchmark for excellence and responded to changes quickly. The hospital was recognized as part of a study and was awarded for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance for cardiovascular and thoracic care. The data was collected and reviewed by an independent external agency to provide complete robustness to the study conducted.
Since its inception in 1992, IJN has been leading the way for cardiovascular healthcare in Malaysia. The institution has grown leaps and bounds over the last 25 years, with many accolades and awards under its belt. It also boasts of many firsts for the industry, be it locally or regionally, as it strives to be the best-of-the-best within the sector.
"We have made great stride as a relatively young organization along with our contributions to the healthcare sector, especially heart care in Malaysia. We are playing a role as a regional player in the field as well," says Dr. Mohd Azhari.
Jay Reddy, Head of Branding at Global Brands Magazine added, "While the award is designed to inspire better performance, we would like to congratulate Institut Jantung Negara for being pro-active in adapting new technology to deliver better care for patients and at the same time being consistent in delivering the best health care available to its clients. We wish the hospital all the best and more success in the near future."
About Global Brand Awards
Global Brands Awards was established with the aim of honouring excellence in performance and rewarding companies across different sectors. The award honors companies who have performed extraordinarily well in the field of finance, education, hospitality, automobiles, lifestyle, education, real estate and technology. The awards are given to acknowledge key players who strive for fineness & provide a platform for recognition. The award also aims to identify, create awareness about the significance of exceptional service delivery and reward their performance with the ultimate global recognition. More than 4000 Companies were evaluated as a part of the recent study conducted.
About Global Brands Magazine
Global Brands Magazine is the one of the world's best loved branding publication. A fully autonomous branding magazine, Global Brands Magazine represents an astute source of information from across the industry. The magazine provides the reader with up- to date news, reviews, opinions, polls on leading brands across the globe. The Magazine is head-quartered in United Kingdom. For More information please visit http://www.globalbrandsmagazine.com
About IJN
Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) was set up in 1992 and is dedicated to the management and treatment of heart diseases by providing cardiology, paediatric cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery services for adults and children.
Today, IJN is reckoned to be among the best medical centres for cardiovascular and thoracic care in Malaysia and the region. IJN has kept abreast with the latest medical advances, from handling a simple hole in the heart surgery to heart and lungs transplantations.
Media Contact:
Edwin Martin
Phone: +44-208-133-3927
MONTREAL, QUEBEC -- (Marketwired) -- 03/02/17 -- Aurvista Gold Corporation ("Aurvista" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: AVA)(OTCQB: ARVSF)(FRANKFURT: AV2) announces that the Board of Directors has approved the issuance of 475,000 incentive stock options (the "Options") to certain employees and consultants of the Company. The Options are exercisable at $0.40 per share for a period of five years from the date of grant. The Options will be subject to a vesting schedule with 1/4 to vest immediately and 1/4 to vest on each anniversary of the grant date until the Options are fully vested. The Options were granted pursuant to the Company's shareholder-approved stock option plan and are subject to the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange and any applicable regulatory hold periods.
Douay Gold Project and Company Profile
Aurvista Gold Corporation is a junior gold exploration and development Company advancing one of the largest undeveloped gold projects in Quebec. The Company has 134,034,900 shares outstanding trading on the TSX Venture Exchange in Canada, the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and OTCQB in the US. Aurvista's Douay Gold Project consists of a 100% owned interest in 250 contiguous claims totaling 133.1 km2, plus a 90% interest in 5 contiguous claims totaling 0.2 km2 and a 75% interest (25% held by SOQUEM) in 32 contiguous claims totaling 11.9 km2. In total, there are 287 claims covering 145.3 km2 located along a 20 km segment of the Casa Berardi Deformation Zone in the prolific Abitibi Belt of northern Quebec. Douay is located 40 km SW of the Matagami Base Metal Camp and 150 km N of the Val-d'Or-Malartic Gold Camp (both in Quebec). For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.aurvistagold.com.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PRESS RELEASE.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on assumptions, uncertainties and management's best estimate of future events. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations and projections. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. When used herein, words such as "anticipate", "will", "intend" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to Aurvista Gold Corporation's filings with Canadian securities regulators available on www.sedar.com or the Company's website at www.aurvistagold.com.
Contacts:
Mr. Jean Lafleur, P. Geo.
President and CEO, Director
Cell: +1 514 927 3633
Mr. Keith C Minty, P. Eng., MBA
Chief Operating Officer
Phone: +1 416 682 2671
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/02/17 -- Eagle Graphite Incorporated (TSX VENTURE: EGA)(FRANKFURT: NJGP)(OTC: APMFF) ("Eagle Graphite" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Torey Marshall, BSc(Hons), MSc (Geology) as Executive Vice President of Business Development effective immediately, subject to customary regulatory approvals. Working in conjunction with the existing Eagle Graphite team, Mr. Marshall's role is to help drive the business forward.
Mr. Marshall brings to the Company over 15 years of global resources experience, particularly in the project financing arena. He is presently the Principal at Vibrante Solutions Pty Ltd (his own consulting firm), and a Director of African Power & Coal (private company). His previous roles include those of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of WAMA Gold, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rampart Energy Ltd. and Earth Heat Resources Ltd. He has been involved in the identification of circa $500m in funding to progress various resources projects around the world. His particular area of expertise is assisting companies fully realize their asset base and opportunities, rebuild their market appeal, and accelerate growth on existing projects through achieving scalable financings when required.
Jamie Deith, CEO comments "Torey is exactly the sort of person we need on this team. He brings a powerful combination of technical aptitude and a successful track record of helping projects achieve their financing objectives."
Mr. Marshall adds, "I am excited to join Eagle at this juncture as I believe the next phase of growth is imminent. Through extensive due diligence conducted over the last year, I have been thoroughly impressed with what the team has achieved to date and what we, as an expanded team, will achieve in the near future. Eagle is well positioned for a changing economy and we are intent on exceeding expectations as this industry continues to evolve."
About Eagle Graphite
Eagle Graphite Incorporated is an Ontario company that owns one of only two natural flake graphite production facilities in North America, located 35 kilometres west of the city of Nelson in British Columbia, Canada, and 70 kilometres north of the state of Washington, USA, known as the Black Crystal graphite quarry. The Company's shares are listed on the TSXV under the symbol "EGA", on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "NJGP", and on the US OTC market under the symbol "APMFF".
Cautionary Statements
Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Such information is based on assumptions, estimates, opinions and analysis made by management in light of its experience, current conditions and its expectations of future developments as well as other factors which it believes to be reasonable and relevant. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking information and accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on such information. Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. In evaluating forward-looking information, readers should carefully consider the various factors which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward looking information. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this release. The Company undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of the Company or its securities, its financial or operating results, as applicable.
Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts:
Eagle Graphite Incorporated
Jamie Deith
Chief Executive Officer
(604) 909-4237
jdeith@eaglegraphite.com
DALLAS (dpa-AFX) - AT&T (T) said that AT&T Southwest wireline operations has reached a tentative agreement with the Communications Workers of America or CWA in wireline contract negotiations. The four-year agreement covers over 20,000 employees in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. It will be submitted to the union's membership for a vote in coming days. The two sides agreed to start negotiations early. The current contract expires on April 8, 2017. If the agreement is ratified on or before April 7, 2017, a ratification bonus of $1,000 will be paid to each eligible employee. The agreement would be effective April 9, 2017 and expire April 10, 2021. The agreement includes general wage increases in each year of the contract - 3 percent the first year, 2.5 percent the second year, 3 percent the third year, and 2.25 percent the fourth year. It maintains one of the most robust health care plans in the nation. The agreement also includes two weeks of paid parental leave to help mothers or fathers bond with a newborn or newly adopted child. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Hitachi Ltd Corporate Communications Tel: +81-3-3258-1111
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, Mar 3, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501) today announced the establishment of Hitachi Elevator (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. in Phnom Penh City, the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, to primarily stimulate sales and services of elevators and escalators in the country. Hitachi Elevator Cambodia is a joint venture between Hitachi, Siam-Hitachi Elevator Co., Ltd., the local subsidiary of Hitachi's elevator and escalator business in the Kingdom of Thailand, and CMED Group Co., Ltd. in the Kingdom of Cambodia. Hitachi Elevator Cambodia fosters engineers at the Asia Training Center, which was established by Hitachi and Hitachi Building Systems Co., Ltd. in January 2017 in Thailand. The company will provide safe, high-quality products and services to Cambodia and contribute to rich and comfortable living environments.Currently infrastructure development in Cambodia is rapidly progressing, including roads and electricity network, which are indispensable to development of the country. The GDP growth rate of Cambodia is expected to be more than 7% per year until 2020. In addition, investments from overseas are centered on the manufacturing industry and real estates. The demand for elevators and escalators in urban areas is also expected to expand at more than 10% a year.Since Hitachi delivered escalators to Cambodia in 1982, it has provided sales, installation, and maintenance services for high-quality elevators and escalators through Siam-Hitachi, including the case in 2014 when Hitachi delivered elevators and escalators for Royal Phnom Penh Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in Cambodia. Moving forward, in addition to sales to Cambodian customers, Hitachi will put efforts into sales for projects in the country by foreign companies, including Japanese-owned companies. Hitachi will aim to expand its shares in the elevator and escalator market in Cambodia, and accelerate the expansion of the business in Asia.About Hitachi, Ltd.Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, delivers innovations that answer society's challenges with our talented team and proven experience in global markets. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal 2014 (ended March 31, 2015) totaled 9,761 billion yen ($81.3 billion). Hitachi is focusing more than ever on the Social Innovation Business, which includes power & infrastructure systems, information & telecommunication systems, construction machinery, high functional materials & components, automotive systems, healthcare and others. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at www.hitachi.com.Source: Hitachi, Ltd.Contact:Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
GUIYANG, China, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --Guian New Area, a national-level economic zone in China's southwestern Guizhou Province, haslaunched the Huaxi University Town project to promote local innovation and entrepreneurship, which hasrealized US$4.65 billion inlocal investments.
Huaxi University Town will have a total area of 683 square feet. Nine universities have already settled in the town, which plans to house a total of twelve.The number of teachers and students in the town has already reached 150,000. In addition, backbone transportation networks currently cover an area of 9.65 square miles, and the town has witnessed US$4.65 billion worth of investment already made.
As part of a five-year blueprint, Huaxi University Town will explore a growth model that is based on the synergies between infrastructure, talent pools, big data and big ideas. Driven by innovation, Huaxi University Town will focus on setting up R&D centers, labs, and scientific institutes, as well as businesses in big data and healthcare.
Huaxi University Town was launched by Guian New Area to help fresh talents pave their career path and speed up the promoting oflocal small enterprises and innovative start-ups with full support. Huaxi University Town aims to form a vibrant ecosystem around universities, companies and the government to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Guian New Area won government approval to set up an innovation and entrepreneurship park inMay, 2016, one of the first zones in the country to be authorized. The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Park is composed of two buildings with total construction area of about 430,556 square feet.
Nine intermediary service firms and six big data companies have settled in Building A, which has adopted a business pattern of integrating big data with services, cultural and creative industries, education, management and analysis. In Building B, the second and third floor is home to the university town's incubator base, which has attracted over 60 startups, while the fourth and fifth floors have lured five companies that integrate big data with healthcare.
Under the Huaxi project, promising startups have established partnerships and cooperation agreementswith thelocalgovernment and institutions of higher education.
ChinaDataPay.com
The company has already set up close partnership with agencies including Jiaotong University, Peking University and theChina Smart Healthcare Industry Federation, and has built a team of 300+ to provide data pricing, asset management, security and other customized services.
Guian Big Data Service Co.
The company's business includes data collection, analysis, mining, and the development of data products. The company is currently developing a big data project with the Guizhou Supreme People's Court. The company's main products include financial big data platforms, investment research platforms and the CBN financial data terminal.
About Guian New Area
Guian New Area, the eighth national-level new area inChina, shoulders three major responsibilities - be a key driver of economic growth in western China, break new ground in the opening of new markets, and set thestandard forsound and vibrant eco-system zones.
Logo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/474352/GUIAN_NEW_AREA_Huaxi_Project.jpg
LINKOPING, Sweden, Mar 03, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
International medical imaging IT and cybersecurity company Sectra (STO: SECT B) has signed a ten-year contract with Isala Hospital, in the Netherlands. The contract comprises Sectra's IT solution for reviewing diagnostic images. The solution enables physicians at Isala Hospital to access and review medical images from any of its two hospitals, regardless of where current and prior images were taken. The joint solution also enables the two sites to efficiently share resources.
Isala Hospital's two facilities are located in the Dutch cities Zwolle and Meppel, and Sectra's solution will replace the two imaging solutions that are currently used at the two sites. It will handle approximately 400,000 examinations each year.
"With this joint solution from Sectra, information will follow the patient instead of the other way around. Sectra's proven track record of extremely high system availability was another important aspect for us in the choice of vendor and is also key in delivering efficient healthcare," says Roel Venema, member of the board of directors at Isala Hospital.
Sectra Enterprise Image Management
The solution ordered by Isala Hospital is part of Sectra's complete enterprise imaging offering which is modular and supports the most image-intense departments-radiology, pathology, cardiology and orthopaedics. Being built on the same technical platform, customers can easily extend a departmental solution to create a comprehensive VNA and enterprise image management solution without major investments or the replacement of existing components.
Meet Sectra at ECR 2017
Sectra's Enterprise Image Management solution will be showcased at booth #411 at ECR in Vienna, 2-5 March. Read more about Sectra at ECR and book a meeting at www.sectra.com/ecr.
For further information, please contact:
Dr. Torbjorn Kronander,
CEO and President Sectra AB,
Phone: 46 (0) 705-23-52-27
Marie Ekstrom Tragardh,
Executive Vice President Sectra AB and President Sectra Imaging IT Solutions,
Phone: 46 (0)708-23-56-10
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
http://news.cision.com/sectra/r/dutch-multi-site-hospital-invests-in-imaging-it-solution-from-sectra,c2203785
The following files are available for download:
Photo: VNA
The Minister Counsellor encouraged the flood victims, who were seriously affected by abnormal floods in early 2017 that caused major damage to people and property, disrupting the lives of millions people.
He affirmed that, with good feelings between the two peoples and responding to the call of the Government of Thailand, the Vietnamese Embassy called upon the Vietnamese community in Thailand to raise funds to support the flood victims.
The gift showed the sentiment and good heart of the Vietnamese community for residents in southern provinces of Thailand, as well as contributing to further promoting the Vietnam - Thailand strategic partnership.
On behalf of the Thai Red Cross Society and the Thai people, Ms. Priyangsri Watanakul expressed appreciation for the precious sentiment and mutual love of Vietnamese people and committed to transfer the gift to the flood victims as soon as possible./
The packed show floors of days two and three of the PV Expo in Tokyo were in stark contrast to the relatively subdued opening day, and perhaps a reflection of Japan's reticence to rushing in. Zero Energy Homes (ZEH) were 'a thing' at last year's show: a government-approved way of building new homes that places emphasis on a lower carbon footprint, namely by becoming 20% more energy-efficient. The vagaries that shroud the hows and whens of ZEH remain, but there could be no denying the impact that this government-backed 'plan' is having. Talk of ZEH opportunities was more prominent this year, particularly after the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Investment (METI) confirmed on the opening day that the FIT for residential-sized solar installations will fall from JPY 31-33/kWh ($.029/kWh) to JPY 21/kWh ($0.18/kWh). This cut had been widely anticipated, as evidenced by the sheer number of solar module and home energy management system (HEMS) solutions on display across the show floor. Wuxi Suntech exhibited its ZEH solution bundle that comprises a hybrid lithium battery inverter (3-4kWh), control management system and either rooftop-mounted or BIPV modules. Suntech Japan president Zhan Gao told pv magazine ...
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
VANCOUVER, BC--(Marketwired - March 03, 2017) - Zadar Ventures Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: ZAD) (OTCQB: ZADDF) (FRANKFURT: ZAV) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has increased its interests in lands prospective for lithium bearing petrobrines in Manitoba from 38,000 hectares to 51,000 hectares by way of newly filed claim applications. Manitoba is a jurisdiction well-known for its oil production in the southeast section of the Province and historic lithium production in east central Manitoba at the Tanco Mine at Bernic Lake, Manitoba.
In an effort to quickly assess the value potential of these prospective petrobrine lands, the Company plans to initiate testing waste water from the producing oil wells in the area of these claim applications within the next several weeks.
Company President Paul D. Gray, P.Geo. commented, "We are excited to get involved in a new area of lithium exploration in well-established petroleum production basins. The demand for low cost lithium production in stable jurisdictions is going to be the key driver in the ever growing energy storage space. These Manitoba petrobrine fields offer a rare opportunity to leverage on the existing handling of saline waters potentially enriched in lithium at surface, and Zadar will be determining if this is an economically viable opportunity."
Petrobrines are considered to be saline formational waters associated with petroleum production which could potentially be utilized as feedstock for mineral extraction, including lithium ("Li").
Production of Manitoba petroleum reservoirs has been consistent since the mid 1980's and many of these oil production reservoirs are either in direct contact with carbonates hosted within the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, such as within the prolific Bakken Formation or are hosted within the actual carbonate lithologies, such as with the Three Forks Formation oilfields. These sedimentary carbonate rocks are potential source rock for lithium brine accumulation.
In almost all cases oil production wells in these areas produce petroleum that is intimately associated with formational waters. This water is considered a waste by-product of petroleum production, and typically rich in dissolved mineral solids and of high salinity. These saline waters are, in normal course, disposed of by pumping the saline waters into other, usually deeper, sedimentary formations. As the production well nears its end of life, it is the cost of this water disposal that usually causes the well to be uneconomic to further produce. A normal well could produce 2000m 3 water per month, all of which could contain an elevated number of dissolved solids.
The determination of the lithium content of these saline waters within the producing petroleum fields is the next step in lithium exploration as these waters are being brought to the surface and handled on a regular basis. The potential to process these waters and extract any lithium is the target of petrobrine lithium exploration.
Lithium occurs naturally in granitic pegmatites and has historically been exploited in east central Manitoba from such sources. Original deposits underwent erosion, releasing Li + ions, and it is these lithium ions that would have entered the ground water system and potentially charged vast ground water reservoirs with elevated Li. During the Devonian period, carbonate rocks were forming in this part of modern day Manitoba and, due to lithium's affinity for carbonate, Lithium Carbonate (Li 2 CO 3 ) would have formed. Because of lithium's partial solubility at standard atmospheric temperatures and pressures, the lithium would have not likely migrated over great distances. The Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin's edge can be found in eastern Manitoba and it has been demonstrated that meteoric water recharges the Basin by underground migration in an east to west direction. The natural lithium deposits can be found just east of this Basinal edge and it is possible undiscovered lithium deposits lie buried west of the Basinal edge. It is this unique situation within east central Manitoba, proximal to the edge of the Western Sedimentary Basin that could potentially afford lithium groundwater interactions with the carbonate deposits of Western Manitoba.
Zadar Ventures Ltd. is a Resource Company focused on the acquisition and exploration of economically viable green energy resources in jurisdictions favorable to mining and industry. For more information we invite you to visit the company's website at www.zadarventures.com.
This news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Paul D. Gray, P.Geo., who is the Company's qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
Paul D. Gray, P. Geo.
President & CEO
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This press release may contain certain forward-looking information. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, forward-looking information and such information involves various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. A description of assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information and a description of risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in the company's disclosure documents on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. The company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Zadar Ventures Ltd.
Paul D. Gray
President
604-682-1634
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Maxtech Ventures Inc. (CSE: MVT)(CSE: MVT.CN)(OTC PINK: MTEHF)(FRANKFURT: M1N) ("Maxtech" or the "Company") is pleased to report that John Harper B. Sc., P. Geo. will be supervising the regional exploration programs.
Peter Wilson CEO said, "The market for manganese is three fold, in fertilizer it is an essential nutrient in photo synthesis creating greener crops, for steel production in the creation of alloys and of course in high-grade form it is becoming more prevalent in the battery market. Maxtech is well positioned to increase its licence holdings as it conducts these regional exploration programs."
Prospecting and mapping, combined with systematic geochemical soil surveys, and ground based geophysical surveys will be performed to identify and develop manganese mineralization and its trends. There are two styles of manganese mineralization and each method requires different techniques to explore and develop the resource. Mineralization occurs as local cobbles and clasts within the colluvium and saprolite horizons above weathered hydrothermal pyrolusite bearing veins and the hydrothermal veins themselves.
The current exploration program is designed to test the character and expand the size of colluvium showings that have been identified on the property. Close control for the dimensions and grade will be accomplished utilizing techniques including hand dug pits, mobile auger drills and trenching with backhoes.
Maxtech's green field exploration strategy for areas with extensive forest cover will be inexpensive, quick and effective while having the least surface disturbance of any exploration method. The hydrothermal vein mineralization is hosted beneath the surficial, weathered horizons. Development of these showings will require further geophysical surveys, both ground and airborne based. Follow up by traditional core drilling is expected as exploration advances.
The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. John Harper B.Sc., P. Geo. who is a Qualified Person with respect to Maxtech's manganese project as defined under National Instrument 43-101.
The Company also announces that pursuant to the Company's Stock Option Plan it is issuing 1,500,000 incentive stock options at an exercise price of $0.47 cents per share to certain officers, directors and consultants. In accordance with the Company's Stock Option Plan, the options granted are exercisable for up to five years from the issue date.
About Maxtech Ventures Inc.
Maxtech Ventures Inc. is a Canadian based diversified industries corporation with gold and manganese mineral properties. Its focus is on mining and the products that are derived therefrom.
Further information about the Company is available on www.SEDAR.com under the Company's profile.
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Certain statements contained in this release may constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively "forward-looking information") as those terms are used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and similar Canadian laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated", "anticipates" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to the business of the Company, the Property, financing and certain corporate changes. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.
Contacts:
Maxtech Ventures Inc.
Peter Wilson
Chief Executive Officer
604-484-8989
peter@maxtech-ventures.com
info@maxtech-ventures.com
http://www.maxtech-ventures.com
BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - At 3:45 am ET Friday, Markit Economics is due to release its services PMI figures for Italy. PMI reports for France and Germany are due at 3:50 am ET and 3:55 am ET, respectively. The services PMI for the Eurozone is due 4:00 am ET. Ahead of the reports, the euro traded mixed against the other major currencies. While the euro rose against the franc and the pound, it fell against the greenback and the yen. As of 3:42 am ET, the euro was trading at 0.8584 against the pound, 1.0655 against the Swiss franc, 1.0515 against the greenback and 120.16 against the yen. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Hong Kong International Jewellery Design Excellence Award Results
Rhythm
HKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department Joe Kainz Tel: +852 2584 4216 Email: joe.kainz@hktdc.org
HONG KONG, Mar 3, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - The biennial International Jewellery Design Excellence (IJDE) Award presentation was held yesterday (2 March) at the cocktail reception of the 34th Hong Kong international Jewellery Show. The Japanese designer Natsumi Odate won the highest honour "Champion of the Champions" with her necklace "Rhythm", which is made using 3D technology."Champion of the Champions" shows nature's beautyA total of 165 awarded designers from 27 countries and regions participated in the competition this year. The winning piece by Natsumi Odate called "Rhythm" was created using 3D technology. The necklace simulates the form of wild grape leaves. The leaf designs change shape throughout the piece, from real-life forms to more abstract designs, symbolising the rhythm of leaves transforming step by step. Using 3D technology, the designer cast in platinum to express the delicacy of a natural form. At the same time, the abstract designs show the accuracy of craftsmanship. A magnetic fastener makes the jewellery easy to wear.The Russian designers Natalia Tarasova and Tatiana Tarasova won the Innovative and Uniqueness in Design Award with their ring "For Form". The ring design was inspired by geometry, with the form of a whirl sucking the grain of jewel ember. Through the piece, the designers wish to express the important things that could be easily overlooked and lost in the whirl of life.Meanwhile, the Craftsmanship Award went to another Russian designer Viktor Moiseikin. His ring and earrings set "Firebird Feather" is a fabulous treasure full of glaring light and glittering gems made with excellent craftsmanship. The sparkling plumage is bejeweled with diamonds and demantoids. Artistically set by the Waltzing Brilliance(R) technology, the gems always whirl as if hovering in the air. Chatoyant and shining, they depict wing strokes and a fantastic flight. The sapphire drops decorate the inner side of the ring and earrings. The reflection of sapphires in diamonds gives a light sky-blue hue.The Aesthetics Award went to the Thai designer Alessio Boschi for his piece "Homage to the renaissance". Consisting of a pair of earrings and a necklace, this set of fine jewellery is a tribute to the magnificence of the Renaissance and especially to the Italian city of Florence, considered to be the birthplace of the Renaissance movement in the 14th century.Facilitating industry exchange through IJDEThe judging panel included Lawrence Ma, Chairman of HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show 2017 Fair Organising Committee; Michelle Ong, Founder and Design Director of Carnet; Jeff Chan, Specialist of Christie's Asia; Emme Wong, Executive Director of Galtiscopio; Irina Slesareva, Chief Editor of Jewellery Review; Fei Liu, Director of Fei Liu Fine Jewellery; Christina Ko, Editorial Director of Prestige Magazine; and Ruth Faulkner, Editor of Retail Jeweller.Lawrence Ma, Chief Judge of the IJDE, said the event has a rare ability to gather outstanding designs from many countries, facilitating cultural exchange as well as information sharing among the jewellery industry. He said, "The entries this year are excellent. The winning piece in the 'Champion of the Champions' category in particular is eye-catching and creative."Emme Wong, one of the judges of IJDE, said that excellent jewellery design requires a delicate balance between creativity and craftsmanship. It is even more important that the consumer can be inspired by the designer's idea through the piece, and in turn see the world through a wider perspective. "This is my first time as a judge of the IJDE. It was really eye-opening. The designers have made use of various materials to create delicate jewellery with extraordinary creativity."Awarding winning pieces showcased in Jewellery ShowThe IJDE Award is organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Jewellers' & Goldsmiths' Association, Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association, Hong Kong Jewelry Manufacturers' Association and Diamond Federation of Hong Kong, China Ltd. The award gathers award-winning designers from all over the world to compete for a number of accolades that honour outstanding jewellery designers as well as provide an opportunity for the industry to exchange experiences, expertise and craftsmanship. The winning entries are now on display at Hall 1D concourse during the 34th Hong Kong International Jewellery Show at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.Organised by the HKTDC, the International Jewellery Show runs from 2 to 6 March at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, while the fourth edition of Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show runs from 28 February to 4 March at the AsiaWorld-Expo. The two shows attracted a record of about 4,480 exhibitors from more than 50 countries and regions.Fair Websites:HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show: http://www.hktdc.com/hkjewelleryshowHKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show: http://www.hktdc.com/hkdgpPhotos Download: http://bit.ly/2mhlzPdMedia representatives wishing to cover the event may register on-site with their business cards and/or media identification.To view press releases in Chinese, please visit http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/tc(Photo 1:) The winning entries of the 2017 International Jewellery Design Excellence (IJDE) Award are announced. The award ceremony was held during the cocktail reception of the International Jewellery Show Gala Dinner on 2 March.(Photo 2:) Champion of the ChampionsTitle of Winning Design: RhythmDesigner: Natsumi Odate (Japan)Sponsoring Company: Kuwayama corporationCategory: NecklaceAbout HKTDCEstablished in 1966, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body dedicated to creating opportunities for Hong Kong's businesses. With more than 40 offices globally, including 13 on the Chinese mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a platform for doing business with China, Asia and the world. With 50 years of experience, the HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to provide companies, particularly SMEs, with business opportunities on the mainland and in international markets, while providing information via trade publications, research reports and digital channels including the media room. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Google+, Twitter @hktdc, LinkedIn.Google+: https://plus.google.com/+hktdcTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/hktdcLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/hong-kong-trade-development-councilSource: HKTDCContact:Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
PUNE, India, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
The report"UV Stabilizers Marketby Type (HALS, UV Absorbers, and Quenchers), Application (Automotive, Packaging, Agriculture, Building & Construction, Adhesives & Sealants), Region (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, and RoW) - Global Forecast to 2021", published by MarketsandMarkets, the global market is projected to reach USD 1.51 Billion by 2021, at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2016 to 2021.
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Browse 131 market data Tables and 48 Figures spread through 160 Pages and in-depth TOC on"UV Stabilizers Market"
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UV stabilizers find application in packaging and automotive industries, and are used with HALS and UV absorbers. The increasing demand for UV stabilizers from these industries has promoted the usage of UV stabilizers. The rise in demand for greenhouse films is expected to drive the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period.
Ask for PDF of the Report at http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownload.asp?id=122183376
Based on type, the HALS segment is expected to lead the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period
Based on type, the HALS (Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers) segment is expected to lead the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period, owing to their ability to protect polymers from degradation from UV light exposure while providing durability and long shelf life. HALS are used in thin and thick cross-section applications such as extrusion, blow molding, fibers, films, tapes, and injection molding, among others. The increasing demand for non-degradable, durable, and high-performance products in automotive, packaging, and furniture & construction industries has fueled the growth of the global UV stabilizers market for HALS.
The packaging application segment is expected to lead the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period
The packaging is the largest application segment of the UV stabilizers market, owing to the increasing demand for packaging from food and non-food industries in Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe regions. The ability to maintain the properties and quality of packaging materials even when exposed to UV radiations, weathering resistivity, and long-term durability is the major factor driving the UV stabilizers market in packaging.
Asia-Pacific is expected to lead the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period
The Asia-Pacific region is estimated to lead the UV stabilizers market. This dominance of the region can be attributed to the presence of a large number of UV stabilizers manufacturers, rising foreign investments, and growing demand for HALS and UV absorbers from plastics, polymers, and automotive industries in the region. China is leading the Asia-Pacific UV stabilizers market due to the growth in the use of UV stabilizers in packaging and automotive industries, among others, and numerous developmental strategies adopted by the manufacturers.
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The UV Stabilizers Market has several global players. These companies are actively investing in various strategies such as new product development, expansions, acquisitions, and joint ventures to increase their market shares. Major manufacturers such as Songwon Industrial Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Solvay SA (Belgium), ALTANA AG (Germany), BASF SE (Germany), Clariant AG (Switzerland), and Addivant (U.S.) have adopted various organic and inorganic strategies to expand their businesses.
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http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/functional-additives-and-barrier-coatings-market-86258744.html
Plastic Additives Market by Type (Plasticizers, Stabilizers, Flame Retardants, Impact Modifiers), Plastic (Commodity, Engineering, and High Performance Plastic), and by Application (Packaging, Construction, Consumer Goods, Automotive) - Global Trends & Forecasts to 2021
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Toronto, Canada--(Newsfile Corp. - March 7, 2017) - Nevada Zinc Corporation (TSXV: NZN) ("Nevada Zinc" or the "Company") announces that at the request of IIROC, this document retracts and updates in its entirety, the press release disseminated by the Company on March 3, 2017. The Company advises and cautions readers that the retracted disclosure may continue to be found in the public domain and the Company advises readers not to rely on such documents that are hereby superceded by the press release of this date.
The Company is pleased to report that it has correlated several lines of evidence including a new 2017 government report (Colpron et al, 20171) to define a significant bedrock gold target on its Livingstone gold project ("Livingstone Project") within the Tintina Gold Belt in Yukon. The Company has determined that a strong, steeply west dipping electromagnetic ("EM") conductor, identified in a comprehensive 2017 Yukon Geological Survey study (Colpron et al, 20171) coincides with soil geochemical anomalies identified by Nevada Zinc geologists. The anomaly also coincides with an area that covers the upstream portions of five active placer creeks, known for producing coarse placer gold (Colpron et al, 20171)(Colpron et al, 20162) for which no significant bedrock source has yet been discovered (Colpron et al, 20162). This is also the same area where Nevada Zinc geologists discovered gold values in outcrop that have geochemical indicator elements similar to those in the local placer creek gold nuggets (Stroink, L., 19923).
Bruce Durham, Nevada Zinc President and CEO, commented: "When we first identified Livingstone as a high priority bedrock gold target in 2010, we acquired the best available ground as a starting point for field investigations. Over the past six years our work produced positive results and we expanded our land position repeatedly based on those results. Now we have the targets defined and are ready to drill test some of these high priority targets. No drill holes have been reported in the district to test for the bedrock source of the estimated more than 50,000 ounces of placer gold that has been recovered (Colpron)1 in the Livingstone area. We have identified gold mineralization in bedrock at the head of one of those creeks, Cottoneva Creek, where Colpron1 postulates the placer gold may have originated, clearly identifying this largely overburden covered area as a prime drill target."
Yukon Gold Properties
Nevada Zinc controls a number of land package along the Tintina Gold Belt, a 2,000 kilometre gold district spanning Alaska and Yukon. Nevada Zinc's three priority projects in Yukon are the Livingstone Project, the VIP Project, and the Goodman Project, all in the Tintina Gold Belt. All three are 100% owned, have identified geochemical and geophysical targets, and have never been drilled.
Livingstone Project
The Livingstone Project (156 mineral claims) which covers an area of roughly 14 x 4 kilometres, is located 85 kilometres northeast of Whitehorse, Yukon and is accessible via a winter road and fixed wing aircraft and helicopter. Five west draining creeks, four of which have their headwaters on the Company's property, have produced some very large placer gold nuggets with individual nuggets reportedly weighing as much as 20.5 ounces4 and 39 ounces5 from Livingstone Creek and Summit Creek respectively (link to nugget photos). Colpron1 refers to the source of the placer gold as elusive. There has never been a hole drilled to test for gold in bedrock along the project's 14 kilometre length. Recently released 2016 and 2017 Yukon government reports highlight areas on the Company's property as a potential source for the placer gold (Colpron et al1,2). Airborne geophysical surveying, new geological mapping, age dating and interpretation point to the area along the western margin of an extensive felsic intrusion in contact with a strong conductive geophysical zone as an area likely to be a possible source of the placer gold (mostly on the Company's property). The Company has identified gold associated with galena bearing quartz veins in bedrock correlating to the target area identified by Colpron.
Colpron in the abstract for his recent Yukon Government report (Colpron, et al 20171) summarized as follows:
"The Livingstone Creek area, known for its coarse placer gold, is underlain by mid-Paleozoic metasedimentary, metavolcanic and metaplutonic rocks of the Yukon-Tanana terrane. These rocks were penetratively deformed, metamorphosed under high-pressure conditions in the Permian, and retrogressed to amphibolite facies before the Early Jurassic. A new VTEMTM Plus, helicopter-born geophysical survey over the area has helped to enhance the interpretation of the bedrock geology and to identify potential exploration targets. The lithological, geochemical and isotopic characteristics of metavolcanic rocks, as well as Early Mississippian U-Pb dates from two metagranitoid plutons in the Livingstone Creek area are consistent with the regional character of correlative assemblages in the Yukon-Tanana terrane. Mid Permian and Middle Triassic U-Pb dates from two granitic intrusions further constrain the timing of development of transposition foliation in the area. Magnetic anomalies and electromagnetic conductors define potential exploration targets for the source of placer gold in the centre of the Livingstone Creek area."
Much of this newly identified target identified by Colpron lies on land held by the Company. The full report and a presentation of the data (Colpron 2016) have been posted on the Company's website.
The Company has plans to carry out additional work on the Livingstone Project in 2017.
Any references to gold quantities or gold nugget size in this press release is historical in nature and as such could not be verified sufficiently by the Qualified Person.
VIP Project
The VIP Project (837 mineral claims) covers 17 kilometres west along the main structural trend from Goldcorp's recently acquired Coffee gold deposit (total indicated mineral resource of 63.7 million tonnes averaging 1.45 g/t Au for 2,968,000 ounces of contained gold, and a total inferred mineral resource of 52.4 million tonnes at an average grade of 1.31 g/t Au for 2,212,000 ounces of contained gold6) at a cost of approximately $520 million. The VIP Project contains the East Big Creek target, a 700 metre long northwest trending gold-in-soil and pathfinder element geochemical anomaly that remains untested and open in both directions along strike. The anomaly is up to 250 metres wide. An extensive, prominent magnetic low in airborne magnetic data defines a northwest trending structure directly associated with the East Big Creek target that remains open ended and unexplored along trend for several kilometres.
Goodman Project
The Goodman Project (379 mineral claims) covers 20 kilometres of favourable stratigraphy located along the projection of the Potato Hills Trend and immediately southwest of Victoria Gold's Eagle Gold Deposit (222,193,578 tonnes indicated mineral resource grading 0.68 g/t Au containing 4,992,821 ounces gold and 77,930,767 tonnes inferred mineral resource grading 0.60 g/t Au containing 1,578,707 ounces gold7). The Goodman Project covers the upper reaches of at least five current or historic placer creeks for which there is no known source for the gold. A recent Company airborne magnetic survey clearly outlines a 5 x 1.5 kilometre elongate felsic intrusion (termed the Murphy Intrusion) similar to the host felsic intrusion at the Eagle Gold Deposit. This magnetic anomaly correlates with numerous geochemical anomalies, particularly an extensive, prominent magnetic low in the airborne magnetic data along the southeast margin of the Murphy Intrusion that may reflect strong alteration, possibly the result of gold mineralizing fluids.
Bruce Durham (P.Geo), President and Chief Executive Officer of Nevada Zinc, is a Qualified Person, as the term is defined in Canadian regulatory guidelines under National Instrument 43-101, and has read and approved the technical information contained in this press release.
Early exploration activities and results are preliminary in nature and not conclusive evidence of the likelihood of a mineral deposit.
References
1Colpron, M., Carr, S., Hildes, D. and Piercey, S., 2017. Geophysical, geochemical and geochronological constraints on the geology and mineral potential of the Livingstone Creek area, south-central Yukon (NTS 105E/8). In: Yukon Exploration and Geology 2016, K.E. MacFarlane and L.H. Weston (eds.), Yukon Geological Survey, p. 47-86.
2 M. Colpron, D. Hildes, S. Casselman, J. Bond, 2016. Geophysical constraints on the geology and mineral potential of the Livingstone Creek area, south-central Yukon
3 Stroink, L. and Friedrich, G., 1992. Gold-sulphide quartz veins in metamorphic rocks as a possible source for placer gold in the Livingstone Creek area, Yukon Territory, Canada. In: Yukon Geology, vol. 3, Yukon Geological Survey, p. 87-98.
4Whitehorse Daily Star; July 26, 1974 $6000 Gold Nugget Found Near City
5 Lindsay, Mark, 2006. LIV Assessment Report Livingstone Creek Area Yukon Territory Yukon Mining Recorder Assessment file 094603
6Kaminak Gold Corporation press release January 6, 2016
7Victoria Gold Corp, MDA dated June 22, 2012 SEDAR
Note: The referenced materials referred to above by Colpron et al from 2016 and 2017 will be posted on the Company's website.
About Nevada Zinc
Nevada Zinc is a discovery driven mineral exploration company with a proven management team focused on identifying unique mineral exploration opportunities that can provide significant value to its shareholders. The Company's existing zinc and gold projects are located in Nevada and Yukon, respectively.
Nevada Zinc cordially invites everyone to meet with its management in the Investors Exchange during the upcoming Prospectors and Developers annual conference in Toronto. We look forward to discussing the progress of the Company at booth #2215 on Tuesday March 7, 2017 and Wednesday March 8, 2017. Registration to attend the Investor's Exchange is free.
For further information contact:
Nevada Zinc Corporation
Suite 1660, 141 Adelaide St.
West Toronto, Ontario M5H 3L5
Tel: 416-504-8821
Bruce Durham, President and CEO
bdurham@nevadazinc.com
www.nevadazinc.com
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.
Hodes clients across Europe can now activate their employer brand through Symphony Talent's next-generation recruitment technology while Hodes' distinct creative & brand offering rolls out globally
LONDON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --Hodes UK, a London-based full-service creative employer branding agency, announced today its position with Symphony Talent, a New York-based comprehensive talent acquisition solutions provider. This strategic realignment will bring together Hodes UK and the U.S.-based Hodes arm under a new Hodes Global brand within Symphony Talent. The synchronicity of the Hodes creative and employer brand capabilities with the solutions that sit under Symphony Talent -- from next-generation recruitment marketing to employee engagement technology -- will redefine how employers connect with talent. As part of the transition, Hodes UK Managing Director, Simon Phillips, will take on the role of chief creative & brand officer for Hodes globally, and will also serve as the managing director of Symphony Talent in Europe.
"Bringing Hodes under the Symphony Talent umbrella is an important step in our agency's evolution. Not only will we continue to provide our clients with the award-winning creative and strategy that we've become so well known for, but we'll also be able to activate Symphony Talent's candidate and employee technologies for a more powerful employer brand experience for our clients," stated Phillips. "This distinct combination of insight-based and intelligent creative, meeting industry-leading technology, sets Symphony Talent apart in serving companies looking to reach, attract and retain the best talent. We're already at work activating this additional firepower with some of our Hodes clients across Europe."
As part of the integration, Hodes clients can now leverage Symphony Talent's next-generation technology solutions to create more unified and more effective recruitment efforts, while Symphony Talent clients worldwide can now more seamlessly leverage the creative power of Hodes. Additionally, this move expands the global reach of Hodes' creative, brand and research staff throughout the United States, London and worldwide. Both in the UK and abroad, companies competing for the best talent possible can tap into a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to unify and improve the recruitment cycle:
Experience Cloud - an omni-channel platform that addresses recruitment marketing, candidate experience and employee engagement,
Media Cloud - an artificial intelligence-based media buying platform that automatically optimizes recruitment advertising efforts, and
Hodes - award-winning creative designed to build effective and engaging employer brands.
"Hodes has continually evolved to meet and exceed the employer branding needs of some of the world's most notable companies," stated Roopesh Nair, CEO of Symphony Talent. "Today, it serves as one of three critical capabilities in Symphony Talent's offering designed to help companies attract, engage and retain the best talent. We look forward to expanding our presence in Europe under Simon's leadership, arming companies across the region and around the world with a distinct and powerful combination of technology and creativity."
Hodes has updated its branding -- including its logo and website -- to reflect the transition into the Symphony Talent team. Operating in Europe since the mid-90's and having relaunched as a completely new agency at the end of 2014, Hodes UK works with major brands such as Unilever, Dixons Carphone, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, L'Oreal and The Body Shop. Most recently, the agency achieved acclaim as the 2016 CIPDrma Agency of the Year.
About Symphony Talent
Symphony Talent is redefining how employers and talent connect. Applying data-driven consumer marketing best practices to talent acquisition, we provide relevant, personalized engagement between employer brands and candidates through smart technology and creative solutions. At the same time, we simplify the process recruiters go through every day to find, engage and manage the right candidates. The result is a unified end-to-end experience for candidates, employers and employees alike. Companies such as Northwell Health, Chili's and UnitedHealth Group rely on Symphony Talent to hire the best talent possible. For more information, visit: www.symphonytalent.com.
About Hodes
As Symphony Talent's creative and brand agency, Hodes has earned a reputation for excellence in shaping and activating incredible employer brands. Blending passion and creativity with strategic thinking, Hodes provides creative and engaging solutions that span research, campaigns, internal communications, bespoke websites, social media and analytics. The exceptional creative and brand work Hodes delivers is embedded in all of the Symphony Talent technology solutions and products. This unique combination ensures that there's strategy and creativity in everything we do. For more information, visit: https://www.hodes.com/.
Press Contacts
Zinnia Gill
mPR, Inc. for Symphony Talent
zinnia@mpublicrelations.com
Maggie Habib
mPR, Inc. for Symphony Talent
310.916.6934
maggie@mpublicrelations.com
Logo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/474369/LOGOSymphonyTalent_Hodes_logo_Logo.jpg
DUBLIN, Mar 03, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "US Patent Practice " conference to their offering.
US and European patent practice differs in many essential ways.
The comprehensive programme of this course, with practical examples, will highlight and explain these differences from a US point of view, giving delegates a better understanding of the US system, and enabling them to work more effectively with their US counterparts
Key Topics To Be Covered At This Seminar
- US Patent Law Update
- Claim Interpretation
- Subject Matter Eligibility
- Sufficiency of Disclosure
- Novelty, Nonobviousness, Utility
- Inventorship
- Double Patenting
- Inequitable Conduct and the Duty of Candor
- Procedural aspects of US Patent Prosecution
- Interferences Post-grant Review under the AIA
- Reexamination and Supplemental Examination
- Reissues
- Direct and Indirect Infringement
- Patent Litigation
This interactive seminar will explain:
- The latest changes in statutory law
- Recent Federal Circuit and Supreme Court jurisprudence
- Claim construction
- Successful US claim drafting
- Subject Matter Eligibility
- Sufficiency of the specification
- Nonobviousness
- Double Patenting
- Fulfilling the Duty of Candor
- Patent prosecution: Rules, Regulations and Best practices
- Interference and derivation
- Post-grant procedures
- Direct and Indirect Infringement
- Patent Litigation
This seminar merits 12.5 hours under the UK Solicitors Regulatory Authority self accreditation scheme (refg. CJA/MAFO) and may also be relevant training under the IPREG CPD self accreditation scheme.
Agenda:
Day 1
09:00 Registration and refreshments
09:30 Introduction to the seminar
11:00 Refreshments
11:15 US patent prosecution - general flow
12.30 Lunch
13.30 Definiteness - Nautilus - the reasonable certainty' standard
14.45 Refreshments
15.00 Utility Patent Law Treaty Implementation
17.00 Close of day one
Day 2
08.30 Refreshments
09:00 Novelty/prior art (if necessary)
10.30 Refreshments
12.30 Lunch
13.30 Restriction practice
14.45 Refreshments
15.00 Post-issuance practice
17.00 Close of course
For more information about this conference visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/rkc3cp/us_patent
Media Contact:
Research and Markets
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
BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - Hungary's foreign trade surplus declined less-than-initially estimated in December, latest figures from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office showed Friday. The trade surplus for December was revised up slightly to EUR 579 million from EUR 556 million reported earlier. In the corresponding month last year, the surplus was EUR 637 million. Exports climbed 7.6 percent year-over-year in December, just below the 7.7 percent gain seen in the flash report published on February 9. Imports grew 9.3 percent annually in December, revised down from 9.9 percent. Separately, the statistical office revealed that flash retail sales increased at a faster pace of 3.7 percent yearly in January, following a 3.3 percent rise in the prior month. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Photo: VNA
With a capital of over VND1.5 trillion, the hospital will provide 100 boarding sick-beds and 250 sick-beds for outpatients. All the departments will meet global healthcare accreditation services provided by the Joint Commission International (JCI), in order to detect and give early diagnosis and treatment to cancer patients.
Covering around 5,000 square meters, this hospital will also operate in accordance with the model of Japan and US standard hi-tech hospitals, and be equipped with testing devices standard in these two countries modern hospitals. In particular, the hospitals pathological analysis and diagnosis centre has an Internet connection with Japanese and US partner hospitals for consultancy, to put forth the most exact medical results.
Addressing the groundbreaking ceremony, Minister of Health Nguyen Thi Kim Tien stressed that there was an increase in the number of non-infectious disease patients and deaths, including cancer patients and fatalities caused by cancer.
The increase puts pressure on the healthcare system as well as the cancer prevention network, with an overcrowding of cancer patients at hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city, according to Minister Tien.
She added that the building of the hospital reflected increased cooperation between the Vietnamese and Japanese governments. The hospital, once being put into operation, will help reduce the number of patients at medical foundations in Hanoi, provide better treatment to people, and restrict patients from having to go abroad for treatment, she said.
Chairman of the Hanoi Peoples Committee Nguyen Duc Chung asked the investor to carry out the project with the planned schedule and quality, ensuring that it would be put into use by the first quarter of 2018 as scheduled.
Statistics show that each year, the country reports an additional 200,000 cancer patients with some 100,000 fatalities. Cancer patients can be cured if their pathological signs are detected early and they follow appropriate treatment methods./.
TORONTO, ON -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Easton Pharmaceuticals Inc. (OTC PINK: EAPH) Announces it has closed on an interim financing with additional financing funds committed
Easton Pharmaceuticals has closed on an interim financing facility up to $2,000,000, of which it has been provided access to. This facility also provides for an additional commitment of funds depending upon the company's requirements. Terms of the facility are in the form of a loan, convertible to restricted common shares of Easton stock. Easton intends to use the funds to complete various acquisition targets of revenue generating companies that are strategic in the company's growth plan which includes possibly expanding its licensed products and the utilization of a possible sales force for further sales in Mexico, Central and Latin America.
Although moving slower than expected, the proposed acquisition of iBliss Inc. announced in early February is progressing well with negotiations on various terms and outstanding items nearing consensus. An anticipated closing is to be finalized shortly. There are currently several companies Easton has been in discussions with as target acquisition(s) and / or joint venture opportunities, which includes the Cannabis market. Easton expects to finalize and close on any number, which are expected to deliver millions of dollars in revenues for the company.
Evan Karras, CEO of Easton Pharmaceuticals, stated, "The financing facility is an important step to move the company forward allowing us to finalize some potentially lucrative acquisition(s) / joint ventures which includes a possible expansion of our licensed products and future sales force in Mexico, Central and Latin America as part of our strategic growth plans." Mr. Karras further commented, "We are optimistic with our recent 'Gynofit' product launch through our distribution partners Gedeon Richter and their Mexican subsidiary company, which would complement the anticipated closing of iBliss and their growing international sales of vaporizers, e-liquids and medical marijuana initiatives as drivers of success for 2017 and well into the future for Easton Pharmaceuticals."
Easton and its partner BMV Medica are nearing completion of its late stage negotiations with 2 multi-national pharmaceutical companies on a sub-licensing distribution agreement for 2 other women's diagnostic products which Easton / BMV hold licensing rights for in Mexico and other parts of Central and South America. AL-Sense, one of the 2 products, is an Amniotic Fluid Diagnostic Leak Test, which is a patented women's diagnostic product that is currently being sold in the United Kingdom, and has European Approval. It serves a huge market where the birth rate in Latin America is three times the birth rate of North America and most of Europe. The target market for BMV/Easton has a population exceeding 200 million people. Sales in Latin America for pharmaceutical and diagnostic products are expected to grow at a rate five times that of North America and Europe as a result of a much higher birthrate in the region including other factors.
About Easton Pharmaceuticals
Easton Pharmaceuticals is a diversified specialty pharmaceutical company involved in various pharmaceutical sectors and other growing industries. The Company previously developed and owned an FDA-approved wound-healing drug and currently owns topically delivered drugs to treat cancer and other therapeutic products to treat various conditions that are all in various stages of development and approval. Easton has partnered with BMV Medica SA de C.V. and together, own the exclusive distribution rights in Mexico and Latin America for patented women's diagnostic and preventative care products from CommonSense Of Israel, along with two generic cancer drugs, Paclitaxel and Docetaxel from BioLyse Pharma of St. Catherine's Ontario, Canada.
For More Information On Easton and Affiliated Company's Visit:
http://www.eastonpharmaceuticalsinc.com
http://www.bmvmedica.net
http://ecigmarkets.com
http://finance.yahoo.com/q's=eaph
https://twitter.com/eastonpharma
Safe Harbor
This news release may contain forward-looking statements or expressions within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (The "Act"). In particular, when certain words or phrases such as "hope", "positive", "anticipate," "pleased," "plan," "confident that," "believe," "expect," "possible" or "intent to" and similar conditional expressions are expressed, they are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Act and are subject to the safe harbor created by the Act. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and actual results could differ materially from those expressed in any of the forward-looking statements. Any investment made into Easton Pharmaceuticals would be classified as speculative and may contain risks. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, market conditions, general acceptance of the company's products and technologies, competitive factors, the ability to successfully complete additional or adequate financing, government approvals or changes to proposed laws and other risks and uncertainties further stated in the company's financial reports and filings.
Contact:
Evan Karras
CEO
Tel: +1(416) 619-0291
Tel: +1(347) 284-0192
Email: info@eastonpharmaceuticalsinc.com
Additional Phase 3 Study Data Show Significant Efficacy of Guselkumab in Patients Experiencing Inadequate Response to STELARA in the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis
Janssen Research Development, LLC (Janssen) announced today new findings from two pivotal Phase 3 studies reporting the efficacy and safety of guselkumab in the treatment of adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.1-3 Data from the VOYAGE 2 study showed that patients treated with guselkumab experienced significant improvements in skin clearance and other measures of disease activity compared with placebo, and significantly greater improvements compared with the anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha treatment Humira (adalimumab).1-2 VOYAGE 2 is the second Phase 3 study to demonstrate superior efficacy of guselkumab versus adalimumab following VOYAGE 1.4 Data from a third Phase 3 study (NAVIGATE) showed that patients who had an inadequate response following treatment with the anti-interleukin (IL)-12/23 monoclonal antibody (mAb) STELARA(ustekinumab) and who then switched to guselkumab, showed significantly greater improvements in skin clearance compared with patients who continued to receive ustekinumab.3 These Phase 3 data are being presented at the 2017 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida, 3-7 March.1-3 Guselkumab, a subcutaneously administered anti-IL-23 mAb, is currently under review by health authorities in the US and EU for the treatment of adults living with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
VOYAGE 2: Efficacy and safety of guselkumab compared with adalimumab for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
In the VOYAGE 2 study, the co-primary endpoints were met at week 16, with 84.1% of patients receiving guselkumab 100 mg at weeks 0 and 4 and then every 8 weeks achieving an Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) score of cleared (0) or minimal (1) disease compared with 8.5% of patients receiving placebo (P 0.001).1 In addition, 70.0% of patients receiving guselkumab achieved a Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) 90 score (near complete skin clearance) compared with 2.4% of patients receiving placebo (P 0.001).1
Major secondary endpoints in VOYAGE 2 achieved statistical significance in comparisons of guselkumab versus adalimumab administered subcutaneously at weeks 0 (80 mg), 1 (40 mg) and then 40 mg every other week (all P 0.001).1 At week 16, following three injections of guselkumab and ten injections of adalimumab, significantly higher proportions of patients receiving guselkumab versus adalimumab achieved IGA 0/1 (84.1% versus 67.7%, respectively) and PASI 90 (70.0% versus 46.8%, respectively).1 Guselkumab continued to demonstrate superiority versus adalimumab at week 24 for both the IGA 0/1 and PASI 90 scores.1 Among other secondary endpoints, significantly higher proportions of patients receiving guselkumab compared with adalimumab achieved Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores of 0/1 (indicating no impact of psoriasis on health-related quality of life) and PASI 100 scores (complete skin clearance) at week 24.1 Additionally, at week 16 and 24, 34.1% and 44.2% of patients receiving guselkumab achieved PASI 100 responses, respectively.1
"The majority of patients treated with guselkumab achieved high levels of skin improvement at week 16, while this was rarely seen in patients receiving placebo; a difference that was highly significant. Higher rates in efficacy in major secondary endpoints comparing guselkumab with adalimumab were also demonstrated and significant," said Kristian Reich, Ph.D., M.D., Dermatologikum Hamburg, VOYAGE 2 study investigator. "These findings are consistent with the previously presented Phase 3 VOYAGE 1 study results and further demonstrate the important role of selectively targeting IL-23 in an immune-mediated disease like plaque psoriasis."
Through week 16, the placebo-controlled period, 44.8%, 47.6% and 48.4% of patients receiving placebo, guselkumab and adalimumab, respectively, reported at least one adverse event (AE).1 Serious AEs were reported in 1.2% of patients receiving placebo, 1.6% of patients receiving guselkumab and 2.4% of patients receiving adalimumab.1 Serious infections occurred in one patient receiving placebo, one patient receiving guselkumab and two patients receiving adalimumab.1 During this period, no malignancies were reported, and one major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) was reported (in the adalimumab group).1
Through week 28, the active comparator period, 58.3% of patients receiving guselkumab and 62.9% of patients receiving adalimumab reported at least one AE. Serious AEs were reported in 3.6% of patients receiving guselkumab and 3.6% of patients receiving adalimumab. Infections and infections requiring treatment were also comparable between guselkumab and adalimumab groups.1 Three serious infections each were reported in the guselkumab and adalimumab groups. One malignancy of prostate cancer in the guselkumab group and two non-melanoma skin cancers (one squamous cell carcinoma in the guselkumab group and one basal cell carcinoma in the placebo to guselkumab group) were reported.1 Two MACE were reported (one myocardial infarction each in the guselkumab and adalimumab groups).
NAVIGATE: Efficacy and safety of switching to guselkumab in moderate to severe plaque psoriasis patients with an inadequate response to ustekinumab
The NAVIGATE study evaluated the efficacy and safety of guselkumab in patients who continued to experience mild to severe skin symptoms (IGA of 2 or more) following 16 weeks of treatment with ustekinumab.3 Patients who switched to guselkumab consistently showed greater improvement in their psoriasis between weeks 28 and 40, compared with patients who continued to receive ustekinumab, having twice as many office visits with at least a 2 point improvement in IGA from week 16, and an IGA score of 0 or 1, the study's primary endpoint (1.5 and 0.7 respectively; P 0.001).3 Guselkumab also demonstrated superiority across major secondary endpoints in comparisons with ustekinumab.3 Major secondary endpoints included the number of visits that patients achieved a PASI 90 response or IGA score of 0 between weeks 28 and 40, and the proportion of patients that achieved an IGA score of 0 or 1 with at least a 2 point improvement from week 16 at week 28 (all P 0.001).3 In addition, a significantly higher proportion of patients in the guselkumab group achieved an IGA score of 0 or 1 and at least a 2 point improvement from week 16 at week 52, and a PASI 90 response at weeks 28 and 52, compared with ustekinumab (all P 0.001).3
"Findings from NAVIGATE showed treatment with guselkumab provided significant benefit to patients who were not achieving clear or almost clear skin with ustekinumab treatment," said Richard Langley, MD, FRCPC, Professor, Division of Clinical Dermatology Cutaneous Science, Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, NAVIGATE study investigator. "These data show the effectiveness of guselkumab in patients who had an inadequate response to treatment with ustekinumab and provide further insights into the therapeutic profile of guselkumab in this patient population."
Through week 60, AEs were reported in 64.4% of patients receiving guselkumab and 55.6% of patients receiving ustekinumab.3 Serious AEs were reported in 6.7% of patients receiving guselkumab and 4.5% in patients treated with ustekinumab, including three myocardial infarctions (two from the guselkumab-treated group and one from the ustekinumab-treated group) and two malignancies (bladder carcinoma and a fatal squamous cell carcinoma of the neck, both in the guselkumab-treated group).3 A serious infection occurred in one patient receiving guselkumab.3
Results through week 48 for both the ongoing VOYAGE 1 and VOYAGE 2 studies were recently published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.5,6 Together with NAVIGATE, these three Phase 3 studies comprise the comprehensive clinical development programme evaluating guselkumab in the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
"At Janssen, we are committed to building upon our understanding of psoriasis and bringing forward innovative therapies that continue to meet the needs of people living with immune-mediated diseases like psoriasis," said Newman Yeilding, MD, Head of Immunology Development, Janssen Research Development, LLC. "Data from the Phase 3 VOYAGE 2 and NAVIGATE studies continue to demonstrate the potential that guselkumab may offer patients and physicians, and we are committed to working with health authorities around the world on our current and future applications."
About VOYAGE 2
The Phase 3 VOYAGE 2 trial is a randomised, double-blind, placebo- and active-comparator controlled study with randomised withdrawal and retreatment from weeks 28 to 76, data that will be presented in the future.1,7 The trial is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of guselkumab compared with placebo and adalimumab and of guselkumab maintenance therapy compared with withdrawal of therapy in adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.1,7 Patients (n=992) were randomised to receive subcutaneous (SC) injections of guselkumab 100 mg at weeks 0, 4, 12 and 20; placebo at weeks 0, 4, and 12 with crossover to guselkumab at weeks 16 and 20 or adalimumab 80 mg at week 0, followed by 40 mg at week one and every two weeks through to week 23.1,7
About NAVIGATE
The Phase 3 NAVIGATE trial was a randomised, double-blind, multicentre study evaluating the efficacy and safety of guselkumab compared with ustekinumab in adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who had an inadequate response to treatment with ustekinumab.3,8 Patients (n=871) received SC injections of ustekinumab 45 mg or 90 mg (based on weight) at weeks 0 and 4 during open-label treatment.3,8 At week 16, patients (n=268) with an IGA score greater than or equal to 2 were considered inadequate responders and were randomised to receive guselkumab 100 mg at weeks 16 and 20 and then every eight weeks through week 44, or to continue on ustekinumab every 12 weeks through to week 44; patients (n=585) who achieved an IGA score of 0/1 at week 16 continued to receive ustekinumab every 12 weeks.3,8 Safety results were monitored through to week 60.3,8
About guselkumab
Guselkumab is a human monoclonal antibody with a novel mechanism of action that specifically targets the protein interleukin (IL)-23 and is currently under review by health authorities in the US and EU as a subcutaneously administered therapy for the treatment of adults living with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Results of a Phase 2 study evaluating guselkumab in the treatment of patients with active psoriatic arthritis were presented for the first time at the 2016 American College of Rheumatology/Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ACR/ARHP) Annual Meeting and will also be presented at the AAD Annual Meeting 2017. A Phase 3 programme evaluating the efficacy and safety of guselkumab for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis is planned.
About ustekinumab
In the European Union, ustekinumab is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who failed to respond to, or who have a contraindication to, or are intolerant to other systemic therapies including ciclosporin, methotrexate (MTX) or psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA), and is also indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adolescent patients from the age of 12 years and older who are inadequately controlled by or are intolerant to other systemic therapies or phototherapies. In addition, ustekinumab is approved alone or in combination with MTX for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis in adult patients when the response to previous non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy has been inadequate. In November 2016, the European Commission approved ustekinumab for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease who have had an inadequate response with, lost response to, or were intolerant to either conventional therapy or a TNF-alpha antagonist or have medical contraindications to such therapies.
The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson Johnson maintain exclusive worldwide marketing rights to ustekinumab, which is currently approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in 89 countries, paediatric psoriasis in 39 countries, psoriatic arthritis in 79 countries and Crohn's disease in 33 countries.
Important safety information
For complete European Union (EU) prescribing information, please visit: http://www.ema.europa.eu/ema/index.jsp?curl=pages/medicines/human/medicines/000958/human_med_001065.jsp&mid=WC0b01ac058001d124
About Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune inflammatory disorder that results in the overproduction of skin cells, characterised by raised, inflamed, scaly, red lesions, or plaques, which can cause itching and physical pain.9 It is estimated that as many as 125 million people worldwide have psoriasis,10 including 14 million Europeans,11 and approximately 20% of people affected have cases that are considered moderate to severe.12
About the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies
At the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson Johnson, we are working to create a world without disease. Transforming lives by finding new and better ways to prevent, intercept, treat and cure disease inspires us. We bring together the best minds and pursue the most promising science. We are Janssen. We collaborate with the world for the health of everyone in it. Learn more at www.janssen.com/emea. Follow us at Twitter.com/JanssenEMEA.
Janssen-Cilag International NV, Janssen Research Development, LLC and Janssen Biotech, Inc. are part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson Johnson.
Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, regarding the potential benefits, and plans for continued development, of guselkumab. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialise, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Janssen Research Development, LLC and Johnson Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: challenges and uncertainties inherent in product research and development, including the uncertainty of clinical success and of obtaining regulatory approvals; uncertainty of commercial success; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges to patents; manufacturing difficulties or delays; product efficacy or safety concerns resulting in product recalls or regulatory action; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson Johnson's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2016, including in Exhibit 99 thereto, and the company's subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com or on request from Johnson Johnson. Neither Janssen Research Development, LLC nor Johnson Johnson undertakes to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.
Humira is a registered trademark of AbbVie Inc.
References
1. Reich K, et al. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD 2017); 3 Mar-7 Mar, 2017; Orlando, Florida; P4749.
2. Reich K, et al. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD 2017); 3 Mar-7 Mar, 2017; Orlando, Florida; P4827.
3. Langley R, et al. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD 2017); 3 Mar-7 Mar, 2017; Orlando, Florida; P4915.
4. Blauvelt A, et al. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD 2017); 3 Mar-7 Mar, 2017; Orlando, Florida; P4766.
5. Reich K, et al. J Am Acad Dermatol 2017;73(3):418-431.
6. Blauvelt A, et al. J Am Acad Dermatol 2017;76(3): 405-417.
7. A study of guselkumab in the treatment of participants with moderate to severe plaque-type psoriasis with randomized withdrawal and retreatment (VOYAGE 2). https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02207244. Accessed March 2017.
8. A Study of Guselkumab in Participants With Moderate to Severe Plaque-type Psoriasis and an Inadequate Response to Ustekinumab (NAVIGATE). https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02203032. Accessed March 2017.
9. National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriasis fact sheet. https://www.psoriasis.org/sites/default/files/psoriasis_fact_sheet.pdf. Accessed March 2017.
10. National Psoriasis Foundation. People of All Races Overcome Psoriatic Disease. https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/features/people-of-all-races-overcome-the-challenge-of-psoriatic-diseases. Accesssed March 2017.
11. Ortonne J, et al. Eur J Dermatol 2004;14:41-45.
12. The Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance (PAPAA). About Psoriasis. http://www.papaa.org/resources/about-psoriasis. Accessed March 2017.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170303005227/en/
Contacts:
Media Contacts:
Brian Kenney
Office: +1 215 628 7010
Mobile: +1 215 620 0111
or
Emily Bone
Mobile: +44 7876 394360
ebone1@its.jnj.com
or
Investor Contacts:
Johnson Johnson
Joseph J. Wolk
Office: +1 732 524 1142
or
Lesley Fishman
Office: +1 732 524 3922
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Toronto Real Estate Board President Larry Cerqua announced that TREB Commercial Network Members reported a combined 271,918 square feet of industrial, commercial/retail and office space leased through TREB's MLS System, on a per square foot net basis with pricing disclosed, in February 2017. This result was down by 25 per cent compared to 362,720 square feet of leased space reported in February 2016.
The year-over-year decline in leased space was driven entirely by the industrial segment, where the amount of space leased was down substantially compared to last year. The amount of commercial/retail and office space leased was up on a year-over-year basis.
Despite the annual decline in industrial space leased, the average lease rate was up over the same period by 13.5 per cent to $6.94 compared to $6.11 in February 2016. The average office lease rate was up by 12.1 per cent year-over-year to $17.03. The average commercial/retail lease rate was down compared to February 2016, largely due to a compositional shift in the size and location of deals this year compared to last year.
"The outlook for Canadian economic growth is positive. However, there does remain some concern surrounding the revival of exports, which obviously could impact some economic segments in the GTA and southern Ontario more broadly. The evolving economic trends over the next few months will be key in firms' decisions to take on more space," said Mr. Cerqua.
The total number of industrial, commercial/retail and office sales reported through TREB's MLS System with pricing disclosed, at 57, was up slightly compared to 55 transactions reported in February 2016. Changes in average selling prices, on a per square foot basis, were up on an annual basis for the industrial and office market segments, and down for the commercial/retail market segment. Changes in average selling prices from one year to the next can be due to both changes in market conditions and changes in the type and location of properties sold.
February 2017: Per Square Foot Net Commercial Leasing Summary
Lease Transactions Completed on a Per Square Foot Net Basis with Pricing Disclosed on TREB MLS System
Leased Square Feet Average Lease Rate Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. 2017 2016 % Change 2017 2016 % Change ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Industrial 142,402 280,517 -49.2% Industrial $6.94 $6.11 13.5% ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Commercial 90,332 53,516 68.8% Commercial $13.88 $20.16 -31.2% ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Office 39,184 28,687 36.6% Office $17.03 $15.20 12.1% ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Total 271,918 362,720 -25.0%
February 2017: Commercial Sales Completed with Pricing Disclosed on TREB MLS System
Sales Avg. Sale Price Per Sq. Ft. (Price Disclosed) (Pricing Disclosed) Feb. Feb. % Feb. Feb. % 2017 2016 Change 2017 2016 Change ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Industrial 10 17 -41.2% Industrial $129.42 $106.67 21.3% ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Commercial 30 21 42.9% Commercial $295.06 $355.58 -17.0% ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Office 17 17 0.0% Office $438.41 $347.91 26.0% ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Total 57 55 3.6% Source: TREB NOTE: Some table totals may differ due to conversion and rounding.
Greater Toronto REALTORS are passionate about their work. They are governed by a strict Code of Ethics and share a state-of-the-art Multiple Listing Service. Over 46,000 residential and commercial TREB Members serve consumers in the Greater Toronto Area. TREB is Canada's largest real estate board.
Contacts:
Media Inquiries:
Mary Gallagher
Senior Manager Public Affairs
(416) 443-8158
maryg@trebnet.com
www.TREBhome.com
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Nighthawk Gold Corp. ("Nighthawk") (TSX VENTURE: NHK) is pleased to announce commencement of its 2017 exploration program on its 100% owned Indin Lake Gold Property in the Northwest Territories.
Activities are expected to run from early March until late September and will include upwards of 25,000 metres ("m") of drilling at its Colomac Gold Project and select priority gold targets within its extensive regional land package. The objectives of this campaign are to better define and expand the dimensions of higher-grade mineralization intersected to-date, to test for the possible convergence of high-grade Zones 1.5 and 2.0, to explore for other potential new zones of near surface higher grade material, to expand the current resource leading to delivery of a resource update by late 2017, and to continue exploring throughout the extensive regional land package. Two drills are currently on site with delivery of a third expected shortly.
HIGHLIGHTS:
-- A 25,000 m drill program is to be completed by late September 2017, directed at Colomac Zones 1.0, 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5, and the Goldcrest sill; expanding known high-grade zones along strike and to depth and testing other potential zones of higher-grade mineralization within the sills. -- Phase 1 winter drilling will begin at Colomac Zone 1.5 (Figure 1) building on the success of Nighthawk's 2016 results where hole C16-03 intersected 52.07 m of 7.72 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold, including 25.47 m of 14.25 g/t gold (September 13, 2016 news release), and 72.65 m of 5.58 g/t gold, including 17.80 m of 17.72 g/t gold, from hole C16-03B (October 12, 2016 news release). Planned holes will test the high-grade zone further to depth along its current 125 m strike length. -- Phase 1 holes will also drill the resource gap between Zone 1.5 and high-grade Zone 2.0 (located immediately to the south / Figure 1) testing for a possible link between the two, that if present, may result in a single high-grade domain that extends for upwards of 300 m in strike. -- Drilling within the Goldcrest sill will continue to test shallow high- grade mineralization to depth and target new opportunities within untested regions along strike to the north and south. -- Extensive prospecting and mapping programs are planned for the summer field season and are directed at generating drill targets within the recently discovered Nice Lake sill (February 7, 2017 news release), and to advance Nighthawk's many regional showings and deposits to a drill ready status.
Nighthawk President and CEO, Dr. Michael Byron, commented, "2017 will be our most active and extensive exploration program to-date. The discovery and delineation of high-grade zone 1.5 not only validates the Colomac/Kalgoorlie analogue (June 20, 2012 news release), but emphasizes the incredible high-grade opportunities that have only recently been realized. Zones 1.5 and 2.0, have the capacity to host substantial ounces of gold, and given their impressive true widths, it's not surprising that the search for similar targets has quickly become Nighthawk's principal focus. We are confident that our new understanding of the Colomac system will lead to additional discoveries of magnitude, even beyond those ounces that will be delivered into the planned 2017 resource update. It's still very early in the growth of Colomac but we are confident in its multi-million ounce expansion potential".
Figure 1. Winter 2017 Phase 1 Drill Sites
To view Figure 1, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1087713_fig1.jpg
About Nighthawk
Nighthawk is a Canadian-based exploration company focused on acquiring and developing gold mineral properties in the Northwest Territories. Including the mineral claims and leases of the Colomac Gold Project, Nighthawk's Indin Lake Gold Property comprises a total land package of 222,203 acres in the Indin Lake Greenstone Belt, located approximately 200 kilometres north of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories and includes an Inferred Mineral Resource estimate, prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101"), of 39.815 million tonnes with an average grade of 1.64 g/t gold for 2.101 million ounces gold using a cut-off grade of 0.6 g/t gold. Nighthawk also holds a 100% interest in the property known as the Superior Project, which covers 39,015 acres approximately 85 kilometres north of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Nighthawk is well financed with approximately $38.4 million in working capital, of which $20.2 million in flow-through expenditure commitments remain to be spent by December 31, 2017 ($8.7 million) and December 31, 2018 ($11.5 million).
The technical aspects of this press release have been reviewed by Dr. Michael J. Byron, Ph.D., P.Geo., President & Chief Executive Officer of Nighthawk, who is the "Qualified Person" as defined by NI 43-101 for this project.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the timing of future drilling, the expansion of the mineralization, and the remediation of historic reclamation sites. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of Nighthawk, including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, volatility of commodity prices, risks associated with the uncertainty of exploration results and estimates, currency fluctuations, dependency upon regulatory approvals, the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing and exploration risk. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. This press release is not, and is not to be construed in any way as, an offer to buy or sell securities in the United States.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts:
Dr. Michael J. Byron
President and Chief Executive Officer
Nighthawk Gold Corp.
Tel: (705) 560-2382
mbyron@nighthawkgold.com
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Eloro Resources Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: ELO)(FRANKFURT: P2Q) ("Eloro") is pleased to announce it has signed a letter agreement (the "Agreement") with Cott Oil and Gas Limited ("Cott") (ASX: CMT), granting Cott an option to acquire up to a 25% interest in Eloro's wholly-owned La Victoria Gold Silver Project ("La Victoria" or the "Property"), by completing up to C$5 million in expenditures by July 31, 2018. The Property covers approximately 80.4 square kilometres and is held by a Peruvian-based Eloro subsidiary and is located in Huandoval District, Pallasca Province, Ancash Department, in the prolific North-Central Mineral Belt of Peru.
The Agreement
Under the terms of the Agreement, Cott can earn an initial 10% interest in the Property by expending C$2 million (exclusive of all applicable taxes) by or before October 30, 2017 ("Stage 1 Earn-in Period"), and a further 15% interest ("Stage 2 Earn-in Period") by expending an additional C$3 million (exclusive of all applicable taxes) by or before July 31, 2018. At the end of either the Stage 1 Earn-in Period or the Stage 2 Earn-in Period, a joint venture would be formed between Eloro and Cott on the basis of their respective interest in La Victoria on the typical terms for a joint venture, with Eloro being the operator and the typical dilution provisions.
Pursuant to the Agreement, Cott would grant Eloro a right of first refusal ("RFR") pursuant to which Cott would be obliged to give Eloro at least 60 days prior written notice of any proposed sale of any interest in the Property to a third party and Eloro would have the right to exercise its RFR within 30 days of receipt of such notice from Cott by matching the third party offer. Additionally, should Eloro propose to sell all or a majority of its interest in the Property to a third party, Eloro must first consult with Cott about the identity of the third party and the proposed terms of sale. If Eloro proceeds with the sale, Cott will be obliged to sell its interest to the third party on a pro rata basis in accordance with the terms of Eloro's sale to the third party.
Eloro and Cott have agreed to proceed to the execution and delivery of a definitive agreement ("Definitive Agreement"), incorporating the terms contained in the Agreement. The execution of the Definitive Agreement is subject to the satisfactory completion by Cott of its due diligence investigation of the Property and also subject to the approval by the Boards of Directors of Eloro and Cott, and in the case of Cott, the approval of the ASX Limited and if applicable, shareholders of Cott, and in the case of Eloro, the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.
Eloro Resources at the PDAC
Eloro will be participating at the PDAC 2017 convention in Toronto and invites you to visit us at Booth 2326 (Investors Exchange) in the South Building, Metro Toronto Convention Centre from March 5 - 8, 2017.
About Eloro Resources Ltd.
Eloro is an exploration and mine development company which holds a 100% undivided interest in the La Victoria Gold/Silver Project, located in the prolific North-Central Mineral Belt of Peru. The La Victoria Gold/Silver Project covers 80.4 square kilometers and is within 50 km of several large, low-cost producing gold mines, with three producers visible from the property. Infrastructure in the area is good with access to road, water, and electricity and is located at an altitude that ranges from 3,100m to 4,200m above sea level. Eloro also holds a portfolio of gold and base-metal properties in northern and western Quebec.
About Cott Oil and Gas Limited
Cott is an ASX publicly-listed company that sold its oil and gas interests in late 2016 and has since been looking to diversify into the mineral resource sector. The Chairman of Cott, Mr. Stephen Dennis, has been actively involved in the mining industry for over 30 years and is also Chairman of several listed resource companies in Australia. Mr. Dennis was for 8 years, up to 2015, Managing Director and CEO of CBH Resources Limited, a significant producer of silver, lead and zinc, which is the Australian-based subsidiary of Toho Zinc Co. Ltd., a Japanese company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Information in this news release may contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information express, as at the date of this new release, the Corporation's plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations, or beliefs as to future events of results and are believed to be reasonable based on information currently available to the Corporation. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
For additional technical information on the La Victoria Project, the reader is referred to the NI 43-101 Technical Report on the La Victoria Au-Ag Property, Ancash, Peru filed under Eloro's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com).
Contacts:
Thomas Larsen
President and CEO
(416) 868-9168
Jorge Estepa
Vice-President
(416) 868-9168
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Gowest Gold Ltd. ("Gowest" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: GWA) is pleased to announce that it has engaged Cementation Canada Inc. ("Cementation") as the mining contractor to assist in the underground development of the Bradshaw Gold Deposit ("Bradshaw") as part of the Company's Advanced Exploration - Bulk Sample program.
Greg Romain said, "We are extremely pleased to have Cementation, with their wealth of mine development knowledge and focus on safety, as a key partner in developing Bradshaw, the next new mine in Timmins."
Roy Slack, President of Cementation Canada Inc. also commented, "All of us at Cementation are pleased to be partnering with Gowest on the Bradshaw project. It is an exciting mine development with substantial potential."
Bradshaw Development Update:
-- Gowest is currently working on site development and construction of the water treatment ponds, which are expected to be completed in mid-April, with portal work beginning immediately afterwards. Please see Bradshaw Development Timeline (http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/gwa0303timeline.pdf). -- The Company has ordered an ore-sorter from Steinert US, which is to be used to sharply reduce handling costs and increase gold grades of ore sent for processing. Delivery of the unit is expected mid-year 2017.
The Company also announces the extension of its previously announced non-binding letter of intent with Northern Sun Mining Corp. ("Northern Sun") relating to the creation of a 50/50 joint venture corporation that will own and operate the Redstone Mill. It is now anticipated that definitive documentation in respect of the transaction will be completed on or prior to April 14, 2017, and closing will occur as soon as practicable thereafter. While negotiations are progressing positively, given time constraints on both the Company and Northern Sun, the parties require additional time to complete due diligence and complete definitive documentation. For additional details concerning the proposed joint venture, please refer to the Company's press release dated January 23, 2017.
About Gowest
Gowest is a Canadian gold exploration and development company focused on the delineation and development of its 100% owned Bradshaw Gold Deposit (Bradshaw), on the Frankfield Property, part of the Company's North Timmins Gold Project (NTGP). Gowest is exploring additional gold targets on its +100-square-kilometre NTGP land package and continues to evaluate the area, which is part of the prolific Timmins, Ontario gold camp. Currently, Bradshaw contains a National Instrument 43-101 Indicated Resource estimated at 2.1 million tonnes ("t") grading 6.19 g/t Au containing 422 thousand oz Au and an Inferred Resource of 3.6 million t grading 6.47 g/t Au containing 755 thousand oz Au. Further, based on the Pre-Feasibility Study produced by Stantec Mining and announced on June 9, 2015, Bradshaw contains Probable Mineral Reserves, using a 3 g/t Au cut-off and utilizing a gold price of US$1,200 / oz, totalling 1.8 million t grading 4.82 g/t Au for 277 thousand oz Au.
About Cementation
Cementation is a mine and facilities contracting and engineering company. The Cementation group of companies delivers underground mine development and infrastructure as well as surface material handling and processing facilities solutions for mining projects worldwide. Cementation Canada Inc., Cementation USA Inc., Cementation Sudamerica SpA, Cementation AG and Merit Consultants International are part of the Murray & Roberts group of companies with operations around the world. For more information on Cementation, visit www.cementation.com.
Qualified Person
The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Kevin Montgomery, P.Geo., Gowest's Manager of Exploration, who is the Qualified Person for the technical information in this news release under National Instrument 43-101 standards.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, all statements relating to the status and timing of on site development and construction, the time for delivery of ore sorter, and the entering into and timing of definitive documentation relating to the proposed joint venture, and the satisfaction of conditions precedent relating to the proposed Transaction. Words such as "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "expect", "intend", "potential" and similar expressions may be used to identify these forward-looking statements although not all forward-looking statements contain such words.
Forward-looking statements involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results, performance or achievements may vary materially from those expressed or implied by this press release. These factors should be considered carefully and reader should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and, other than as required by law, the Company does not intend to or assume any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Contacts:
Gowest Gold Ltd.
Greg Romain
President & CEO
(416) 363-1210
info@gowestgold.com
Gowest Gold Ltd.
Greg Taylor
Investor Relations
416 605-5120
gregt@gowestgold.com
DELRAY BEACH, FL -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Protext Mobility, Inc. (OTC PINK: TXTM) ("Protext" or "the Company"), a biotech company engaged in the development of pharmaceutical applications for the highly bioavailable Phytofare catechin complex, announced today that it conducted a series of meetings across the island country of Mauritius, capped off with a meeting at the State House where company Chief Executive Officer, Roger Baylis-Duffield, had a private meeting with Mauritian President, Professor Ameena Gurib-Fakim. Protext management had been in Mauritius evaluating the potential for conducting a forthcoming human clinical trial on Type II Diabetes.
Mauritius is being evaluated as a trial site because, according to the World Health Organization and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the prevalence of Type II Diabetes in Mauritius in 2015 was a world-leading 16.28%. Worldwide as of 2013, 382 million people, or 8.3% of the adult population have diabetes, with Type II Diabetes making up about 90% of the cases. In 2014, the IDF estimated that diabetes resulted in 4.9 million annual deaths.
Among the topics discussed with her excellency was the epidemic of diabetes plaguing the country and the potential for the Company's Phytofare extract to help manage blood-sugar levels in those afflicted. President Gurib-Fakim is a world-renowned scientist with a PhD in organic chemistry specializing in finding medical benefits from plant phytonutrients. Mr. Baylis-Duffield and Pres. Gurib-Fakim explored mutual common interests in developing plant based solutions to help address diabetes and other health concerns and the desire to grow the biotech industry in Mauritius through research and potential manufacturing opportunities.
In addition to meeting the President, the company met with executives of the St. Aubin tea estate, one of the country's oldest plantations dating back to 1798. The Company reviewed the extensive St. Aubin holdings and discussed various business development opportunities. Protext management also held extensive meetings with the Centre International de Development Pharmaceutique (CIDP) (www.cidp-cro.com) to review their research facilities and discuss human clinical trial opportunities in Mauritius.
Roger Baylis-Duffield, Protext Chief Executive, commented, "It was a tremendous honor to be invited to the State House to meet with President Gurib-Fakim, a scientist with a passion for plant research that marries perfectly with the objectives of Protext. We had very productive discussions and I am confident that she will be a tremendous ally as we move forward in our Diabetes research. We look forward to discussing further advancements of our meetings and business developments in the coming days."
Please visit us on social media for Company photos in Mauritius and South Africa:
www.instagram.com/protextm/
https://twitter.com/protxtm
About Protext Mobility, Inc.
Protext Mobility is engaged in the research and clinical testing of "bioceutical" products -- all natural ingredients formulated for pharmaceutical applications and processed under pharma-grade conditions. The Company has the exclusive worldwide license to develop pharmaceutical applications and products using the Phytofare catechin complex, which was developed by Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. Phytofare is a highly bioavailable extract produced from live green tea leaves. Our initial product, Phytofare Catechin Complex, has been clinically shown to have 10 times greater bioavailability over generic catechin extracts. What this means is that Phytofare can deliver a therapeutic level of catechins, which function as powerful antioxidants, to the system where they remain active for over 24 hours. Plandai grows the raw materials on its 7,500 acre Senteeko green tea estate in South Africa, where it produces the proprietary Phytofare extracts in-house, allowing the Company a continuity of supply as well as quality control throughout the entire process. Targeted applications for the Company's products include arthritis, inflammation, anti-viral, and diabetes-related metabolic syndromes.
Please visit http://www.protextm.co for further information.
Safe Harbor Statement
This release contains forward-looking statements that are based upon current expectations or beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions about future events. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and the assumptions upon which they are based are reasonable, we can give no assurance or guarantee that such expectations and assumptions will prove to have been correct. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by the use of words like "may," "will," "should," "could," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "intend," or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as these statements are subject to numerous factors and uncertainties, including but not limited to: adverse economic conditions, competition, adverse federal, state and local government regulation, international governmental regulation, inadequate capital, inability to carry out research, development and commercialization plans, loss or retirement of key executives and other specific risks. To the extent that statements in this press release are not strictly historical, including statements as to revenue projections, business strategy, outlook, objectives, future milestones, plans, intentions, goals, future financial conditions, events conditioned on stockholder or other approval, or otherwise as to future events, such statements are forward-looking, and are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. The company disclaims any obligation to update information contained in any forward-looking statement. This press release shall not be deemed a general solicitation.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Protext Mobility, Inc.
Info@protextm.co
(435) 881-3611
LONDON, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament for London North Centre, and Kate Young, Member of Parliament for London West, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario, will make an important announcement to support entrepreneurs in southwestern Ontario.
Media are invited to tour the company prior to the official announcement.
MP Fragiskatos and MP Young will be available to answer questions from the media, following the event.
Please note that all details are subject to change. All times are local.
DATE: Friday, March 3, 2017 TIME: Tour - 11:00 a.m. Announcement - 11:30 a.m. PLACE: Tour: Stiller Centre 700 Collip Circle London, Ontario N6G 4M3 Announcement: NRC Building 800 Collip Circle London, Ontario N6G 4M3
Contacts:
FOR INFORMATION (media only):
Media Relations Office
FedDev Ontario
416-954-6652
fdo.mediarel-relmedias.fdo@canada.ca
3. March 2017 Announcement no. 13/2017
Notice convening the Annual General Meeting of Topdanmark A/S on Tuesday 4 April 2017, 15:00 (CET), at Tivoli Congress Center, Arni Magnussons Gade 2-4, 1577 Copenhagen V.
The AGM will be broadcast live on Topdanmark's website www.topdanmark.com ? Investor. Following the AGM, the broadcast will also be available on the Company's website.
The Board of Directors will submit:
I. Report on the Company's activities in the past year.
II. Presentation of the audited Annual Report signed by the Board of Directors and the Executive Board.
III. Adoption of the Annual Report and decision on the appropriation of profits according to the Annual Report as adopted.
IV. Any proposals submitted by the Board of Directors or the shareholders.
Proposals from the Board of Directors:
A. Proposal for amendments of the Articles of Association A.1. Proposal for authorization of extraordinary dividend In order to enable the Board of Directors to prepare the Company's earnings distribu-tion policy in the most appropriate manner, it is proposed that, according to section 182(2) of the Danish Companies Act, the AGM authorizes the Board of Directors to decide to distribute extraordinary dividends in accordance with the provisions of the Danish Companies Act.
The Board of Directors proposes the following as new Article 8:
"Article 8 The Annual General Meeting has empowered the Board of Directors to decide on dis-tribution of extraordinary dividends in accordance with the provisions of the Danish Companies Act."
It is proposed to consequentially amend the former Article 8 to becoming Article 9 and so on.
A.2. Proposal for how to distribute dividends It is no longer possible to distribute dividends via cheques.
Consequently, it is proposed to amend Article 7 to:
"Article 7 (1) Dividends on shares registered in the name of the holder shall be paid by transfer to the shareholder's bank.
(2) Dividends on inscribed shares shall be paid by transfer to the shareholder's Nem-Konto."
Consequently, the Board of Directors proposes amendment of Article 10(1) (before adoption of item IVA.1 Article 9(1)), to:
"Article 10 (1) Dividend amounts remaining unclaimed three years after the relevant Annual General Meeting shall revert to the Company."
B. Proposal for reduction in share capital The Board of Directors proposes that the share capital be reduced by 5,000,000 own shares of DKK 1 each with a total nominal value of DKK 5,000,000. Subsequently the shares will be cancelled.
Pursuant to Section 188(1) of the Danish Companies Act, the reduction in capital is ef-fected by cancellation of previously acquired own shares, i.e. a capital reduction for payment to the shareholders. The reduction in share capital will be at a price of DKK 175.27 per share corresponding to the average buy-back price of the shares. Thus, a total of DKK 876,349,555 will be transferred.
After the expiry of the deadline for creditors to file their claims and the completion of the reduction in capital, Article 3(1) of the Articles of Association will be amended to read as follows:
"The share capital of the Company amounts to DKK 90,000,000 and is fully paid up."
C. Proposal for changes of the remuneration policy The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (DFSA) has decided that options granted to the Executive Board, Significant Risk Takers and the Friday Team under Topdan-mark's revolving option programme must be considered variable pay. Furthermore, the DFSA has issued executive order 2016-12-02 no. 1583 on salary policy and re-muneration in financial services companies and financial holding companies, accord-ing to which, the definition of employees whose activities have significant impact on the company's risk profile (Significant Risk Takers), is extended compared to previous provisions. The Board of Directors proposes a change of the Topdanmark Group's remuneration policy accordingly.
The full wording of the remuneration policy after the proposed changes is available at www.topdanmark.com - Investor - News and calendar - General meetings.
D. Proposal for remuneration of the Board of Directors The Board of Directors proposes that the ordinary basic remuneration to be paid to the Board of Directors remains at DKK 350,000 for the 2017 financial year.
Proposals from shareholders:
E. Proposal from shareholder, Sampo plc: E.1. Proposal to revoke the authorization granted to the Board of Directors to ac-quire the Company's own shares Sampo plc has submitted a proposal that the AGM, with effect from 5 April 2017, re-vokes the authorization granted at the AGM to the Board of Directors to acquire the Company's own shares until 15 April 2020.
Comment on the proposal by the Board of Directors: If the proposal is not adopted at the AGM, it is the intention of the Board of Directors that Topdanmark will switch to a combination of share buy-back and payment of dividend as earnings distribution.
E.2. Proposal for amendment of the Articles of Association regarding the casting vote for resolutions of the Board of Directors Sampo plc has submitted a proposal that the Deputy Chairman shall have the casting vote in the event of equality of votes in situations where the Chairman of the Board of Directors is absent.
Consequently, it is proposed that the wording of the last sentence of Article 17(6) be amended to:
"In the event of an equality of votes, the Chairman, or in his absence, the Deputy Chairman, shall have the casting vote."
Comment on the proposal by the Board of Directors: The Board of Directors supports the proposal.
F. Proposal from shareholder, Thomas Meinert Larsen: Thomas Meinert Larsen has submitted the following proposal:
The AGM urges the Board of Directors to conduct its business within overall limits en-suring support of the UN global climate agreement from 2015 (the Paris agreement) on keeping the increase in global average temperature to a maximum of 2C, and as close to 1.5C as possible.
In its reporting for 2017, Topdanmark is recommended to observe "the Recommenda-tions of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures", prepared at the re-quest of G20's Financial Stability Board.
Comment on the proposal by the Board of Directors: Topdanmark has chosen to join the UN Global Compact and i.a. reports on CO2 emissions and climate strategy via an annual climate report, in accordance with the Carbon Disclosure Project. It is the opin-ion of the Board of Directors that Topdanmark conducts its business within limits ensur-ing the necessary consideration of public interest, including climate and environment taking into account the relevant legislation for insurance groups. Consequently, it is the opinion of the Board of Directors that currently, further or other initiatives are not re-quired. Therefore, the Board of Directors does not support the proposal. The full word-ing of the comment on the proposal by the Board of Directors is available at www.topdanmark.com - Investor - News and calendar - General meetings.
V. Election of members to the Board of Directors
All Board members elected at the AGM are up for election.
Topdanmark's main shareholder, Sampo plc, wants to increase its number of mem-bers of Topdanmark's Board of Directors elected at the AGM from one to three.
The Board of Directors finds Sampo plc's proposal understandable and proposes accordingly election of: A. Torbjorn Magnusson B. Petri Niemisvirta C. Lone Mller Olsen D. Annette Sadolin E. Ricard Wennerklint F. Jens Aalse
A detailed description of each Board member is available on Topdanmark's website www.topdanmark.com - Investor - News and calendar - General meetings. These descrip-tions have also been sent to the shareholders who have requested a written invitation to the AGM.
VI. Election of one state-authorised public accountant to serve as auditor.
The re-election of Deloitte, Statsautoriseret Revisionspartnerselskab, is proposed according to the recommendation by the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee has not been impacted by third parties, and has not been subjected to any agreement with a third party, that limits the AGM's choice to certain auditors or auditing firms.
VII. Any other business
Conditions of adoption The adoption of the proposals referred to in items III, IVC, IVD, IVE.1, IVF, V and VI requires a simple majority of votes.
The adoption of the proposal referred to in items IVA.1, IVA.2, IVB and IVE.2 is conditional upon the affirmative votes of not less than two thirds of the votes cast as well as of the voting capital represented at the AGM.
The votes will be based on the principle of one vote per share.
Size of share capital, shareholders' voting rights and date of registration The share capital of Topdanmark totals DKK 95,000,000 divided into 95,000,000 shares of DKK 1 each. Topdanmark's holding of own shares, which do not entitle the holder to vote at the AGM, is 9,294,900 shares. Therefore, the number of voting rights at the AGM is 85,705,100. Danske Bank is the share issuing bank, through which shareholders may exercise their finan-cial rights.
The date of registration will be 28 March 2017.
Shareholders who own shares in the Company on the date of registration are entitled to attend the AGM and vote on their shares. A shareholder's shareholding is calculated on the date of registration based on the registration of the shareholder's shares in the Register of Owners and the information of ownership received by the Company for registration in the Register of Owners. The attendance of a shareholder is also dependent on the shareholder having obtained in a timely manner an admission card as described below.
Admission card Shareholders who want to attend the AGM should obtain admission cards no later than 31 March 2017 on www.topdanmark.com com - Investor - Investor service ? InvestorPortal or by applying to Topdanmark A/S, Share Administration Department, Borupvang 4, 2750 Ballerup, Denmark, telephone + 45 4468 4411, email aktieadm@topdanmark.dk.
It will be possible to receive the admission card by email. Shareholders who want to receive the admission card by email must state that when ordering the admission card. In order to do so, the shareholder's email address must be registered in InvestorPortalen. After registration, the shareholder will receive an electronic admission card that must be presented at the AGM using a smartphone or a tablet. If the shareholder has forgotten the admission card for the general meeting, it can be obtained against presentation of appropriate proof of identification. Ballot papers will be handed out at the entry point of the general meeting.
Proxy and vote by letter Shareholders may grant the Board of Directors a proxy. Proxies can by revoked at any time. Shareholders may vote in writing by letter. Votes by letter cannot be revoked. Shareholders may grant their electronic proxies and votes by letter on Topdanmark's investor portal available on www.topdanmark.com - Investor ? Investor service - InvestorPortal. Paper proxy forms and votes by letter forms can be downloaded from the Company's website www.topdanmark.com - Investor ? News and calendar - General meetings. Shareholders who want to grant the Board of Directors a proxy or vote by letter need to do so by post or email to aktieadm@topdanmark.dk to reach the Company by 31 March 2017.
Further information The Notice Convening the AGM, information on the total number of shares and voting rights on the date of the Notice, those documents to be presented at the AGM, the agenda and the complete proposals as well as those forms to be used for voting by proxy or letter will be available on the Company's website www.topdanmark.com - Investor - News and calendar - General meetings during the three weeks prior to the AGM. The material is also available from Topdanmark's Share Administration.
Questions from shareholders Pursuant to Section 102 of the Danish Companies Act, shareholders may ask questions about the agenda or about documents etc. to be used at the AGM or on matters important to the assessment of the Annual Report and the Company's position or to questions to be decided at the AGM. Prior to the AGM, such questions can be asked by contacting, in person or in writing, Topdanmark A/S, Share Administration Department, Borupvang 4, 2750 Ballerup, Denmark, telephone + 45 4468 4411, email aktieadm@topdanmark.dk.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Please direct any queries to: Steffen Heegaard, Group Communications and IR Director Tel: +45 44 74 40 17 Mobile tel: +45 40 25 35 24
Topdanmark A/S Reg.No. 78040017 Borupvang 4 2750 Ballerup
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FORT LAUDERDALE, FL -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- VPR Brands, LP (OTC PINK: VPRB) is proud to be a part of the 2017 SE Petro-Food Marketing Expo in Myrtle Beach, SC Wednesday, March 8-9th. The Company will showcase VAPORIN, it's national convenience store Electronic Cigarette brand at booth# 1615. Vaporin's innovative technology offers the look, feel and taste of traditional smoking, but without the tar, tobacco, ash, smoke, or odor. Vaporin offers a variety of vaporizer's and e-liquids focused toward the Convenience customer.
"Vaporin has one of the more modern and comprehensive display programs that brings a vape store selection to a shelf or counter top. The Vaporin display program offers a self-service display packed with high-end vape units and premium USA made e-liquids for the smokers as well as flavor chasers. Showcasing this brand at the Southeast Petro show will allow all of the gas stations and C-stores attending to take advantage of this great assortment of vaporizers that is our rapidly growing flagship C-store brand," says Dan Hoff COO of VPR Brands LP.
"Our C-store program is what originally made the company successful and after all these years our Brands are still some of the industry's most widely recognized; KRAVE, VAPORIN and VAPORX Brands have all been carried by many of the largest wholesale and retail distributors in the country. We are working to update our programs and re-introduce them back into the retail channels where they were successful. We offer high quality, features, and design while maintaining affordability and value to the consumer," says Kevin Frija CEO of VPR Brands LP.
About Southeast Petro-Food Marketing Exposition:
The 36th Year of the Petroleum/C-store Industry's Largest Regional Show! 2017 Southeast Petro-Food Marketing Expo is a two-day trade show and exposition that will feature the latest in retail and petroleum technology and marketing, educational seminars, as well as networking with industry leaders from throughout the region. Approximately 460 companies exhibit at the show with approximately 3000 reps and about 1700 buyers in attendance over the 2-day show. The show is sponsored by, North Carolina Petroleum & Convenience Marketers www.ncpcm.org, South Carolina Petroleum Marketers Association www.scpma.com, South Carolina Association of Convenience Stores www.scacs.org, Virginia Petroleum, Grocery & Convenience Association www.vpcga.com
About VPR Brands, LP:
VPR Brands is a technology company, whose assets include issued U.S. and Chinese patents for atomization related products including technology for medical marijuana vaporizers and electronic cigarette products and components. The company is also engaged in product development for the vapor or vaping market, including e-liquids, vaporizers and electronic cigarettes (also known as e-cigarettes) which are devices which deliver nicotine and or cannabis through atomization or vaping, and without smoke and other chemical constituents typically found in traditional products. For more information about VPR Brands, please visit the company on the web at www.vprbrands.com and http://www.vaporin.com
Forward-looking statements:
This news release contains statements that involve expectations, plans or intentions, and other factors discussed from time to time in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These statements are forward-looking and are subject to risks and uncertainties, so actual results may vary materially. The company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The company disclaims any obligation subsequently to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.
Contact Information:
VPR Brands, LP
Kevin Frija
CEO and CFO
(954) 715-7001
info@vprbrands.com
It is not a bad thing for us, that the route known as the Goldene Strae or the Golden Road as we will get to know it- has escaped the attention of so many. It has been spared being overrun by hordes of tourists and as you will discover the
CREVE COEUR (dpa-AFX) - China National Chemical Corp.'s or ChemChina's purchase of Syngenta (SYT) and the combination of Dow Chemical (DOW) and Dupont are heading towards European antitrust approval, an important hurdle for the first two of three politically charged mega mergers reshaping the global food industry, the Financial Times reported citing people familiar with the matter.
The $43 billion purchase of the Swiss seed company is China's largest cross-border transaction and is the second of three agribusiness deals, together worth nearly $250 billion, that Margrethe Vestager, EU competition commissioner, will examine this year.
Dow DuPont's $140 billion merger is on track for approval in March after the companies offered to sell some research and development capability. The sale will address the regulator's concern that a combined agri-company might launch fewer new crop protection products, the report said.
The third agri-deal, Bayer's $66 billion purchase of Monsanto, was announced last September and will start its European approval process before the summer. The US Department of Justice and the Committee on Foreign Investment in the US, Cfius, are both considering the deal.
The commission opened an in-depth probe because the companies did not offer any remedies to address its concerns at an early stage. However, the commission has not followed that up by sending a statement of objections, which lays out its formal case against a tie-up.
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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2017) - CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQB: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7N) ("CanAlaska" or the "Company") will be exhibiting at the PDAC mining conference in Toronto, March 5-9, and is pleased to provide this project update to shareholders.
Waterbury West Uranium Project
AREVA as operator of the Waterbury UEM joint venture with Cameco is currently drilling at the Waterbury West property. The Company sold the project to Cameco in early 2016, and the property was transferred to the joint venture. CanAlaska retains a 2% royalty interest. Discussions are underway with other uranium groups on the Company's other Waterbury properties.
Moon South Uranium Project
Denison has now completed line cutting in preparation of the DCIP Resistivity survey which is scheduled to commence in early April 2017. A second phase drill program is planned for the summer 2017. Work will be focussed along the CR-3 conductive trend which is located approximately 2 kilometres west of the K-trend which hosts the Gryphon deposit on Denison's adjacent Wheeler River property. An initial hole drilled at Moon South in 2016 (MS-16-01) on the CR-3 trend, near the southern boundary of the Moon South property, intersected 0.1% U 3 O 8 over 0.5 metres at the sub-Athabasca unconformity and was encompassed by a significant sandstone alteration and geochemical halo. The CR-3 trend has been interpreted over a distance of approximately five kilometres on the Moon South property and is completely untested to the northeast of drill hole MS-16-01.
West McArthur Uranium Project
Cameco has advised us that they expect to provide details of their 2017 drill program to us by March 14. It is expected that drilling will resume at Grid 5, and additional planning for a drill program at Grid 1.
NW Manitoba Uranium Project
We are awaiting drill program information from operator Northern Uranium. The details of a number of proposed targets can be found on their website presentation (http://www.northernuranium.com/projects/)
West Athabasca Diamond Project
We have received all property data from De Beers, and have commenced geophysical review of the targets which show potential for pipe-like features. Discussions have commenced with third parties concerning exploration of the targets.
Alberta Diamond Project
We have flown 40% of the property with low level, close spaced airborne magnetics. A number of positive and negative magnetic features have been identified, and modeling is currently being carried out on 30 of the most significant targets.
North Ruttan Copper-Zinc Project
We have two large geophysical targets adjacent to and northeast of the past producing Ruttan copper-zinc mine. This mine was the third largest mined VMS deposit in Canada (82 million tonnes). Our target immediately north of the mine has been outlined by 15 shallow drill holes along a 1.2 kilometre strike length. The next drill program on this target will be to test the VMS horizon between 100 metres and 500 metres depth. In March we expect to mobilize a diamond drill for two exploratory holes on a further large target located seven kilometres to east of the North Ruttan zone. This target, labeled "Nisku", shows evidence of a large magnetic and conductive target which is believed to be near surface for approximately 1,000 metres.
At the current time the Company has a cash position of $1.6 million. The current funding is sufficient for at least two years of operations and activities based on the Company's continued project generation and third party operations. The Company has a further seven uranium projects ready for third-party option. Further information about the Company's projects is available at www.canalaska.com.
Shareholders and interested parties are invited to meet management at the PDAC conference in Toronto March 5-9, at Booth 2140.
About CanAlaska Uranium
CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQB: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7N) holds interests in approximately 500,000 hectares (1.2 million acres), one of the largest land positions in Canada's Athabasca Basin region - the "Saudi Arabia of Uranium." CanAlaska's strategic holdings have attracted major international mining companies Cameco, Denison, KORES, and KEPCO. CanAlaska is a project generator positioned for discovery success in the world's richest uranium district. For further information visit www.canalaska.com.
The qualified technical person for this news release is Dr Karl Schimann, P. Geo, VP Exploration, for CanAlaska.
On behalf of the Board of Directors
"Peter Dasler"
Peter Dasler, M.Sc., P.Geo.
President & CEO
CanAlaska Uranium Ltd.
Contacts:
Peter Dasler, President
Tel: +1.604.688.3211 x 138
Email: info@canalaska.com
John Gomez, Corporate Development
Tel: +1.604.484.7118
Email: jgomez@canalaska.com
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward-looking information
All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events.
ATLANTA, GA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Atlanta Public Schools (APS) and 2020 On-site, the only company bringing state-of-the-art mobile vision centers on-site to schools and businesses, announced today that they have partnered to provide Atlanta students with eye exams and eyewear. 2020 On-site will bring its mobile optometry vehicle to schools throughout the city, beginning with a March 3 eye exam event at Booker T. Washington High School.
Students with uncorrected vision problems are at a disadvantage in the classroom. In many cases undiagnosed visual disorders and uncorrected vision is the cause of poor school performance. By law, public school students must undergo simple vision screening in school, but many families don't follow up with the comprehensive annual eye exams recommended by the American Optometric Association (AOA), which are necessary to correct visual disorders. Serving other school districts, 2020 On-site has found that more than half of students need vision correction (the company provides eyeglasses, which are shipped directly to school nurses after the exam for distribution directly to students).
"As APS continues to build our comprehensive health support strategy, we are excited for this partnership with 2020 On-site to provide eye exams and glasses to our students," said APS Superintendent Meria J. Carstarphen, Ed.D. "Poor vision can be a huge barrier to learning. We want to help our students gain access to the necessary health services so they can reach their highest academic potential."
Informational packets are provided to parents of APS students to grant permission for their child (ren) to receive a comprehensive eye exam. Forms can be found here: http://www.2020onsite.com/schools. Once a school can provide at least 30 signed parental forms, 2020 On-site schedules a date and time to visit the school site, to ensure they can see as many students as possible.
Howard Bornstein, founder of 2020 On-site, said that the APS partnership is modeled after a successful program established with the Boston Public Schools. In Boston, 2020 On-site has provided eye exams for nearly 1000 students, and put more than 500 pairs of glasses into those students' hands.
"We believe that students should have the same access to high-end vision care that we currently provide to companies throughout Atlanta," said Bornstein. "Many of the students we see are already being impacted by vision problems that they may not know they have. These children can't see a smartboard clearly, or the faces of their teachers or classmates. That's going to have an impact on them academically, socially and recreationally, and why it's critical to get them the care they need."
2020 On-site is headquartered in Boston, where it serves 300+ clients including Boston Public Schools, Wayfair, Microsoft, Ocean Spray and Pfizer. The company expanded to Atlanta in April 2016, and already more than 50 area businesses have signed up for the service, including Kimberly Clark, MailChimp, Jackson Healthcare, and Randstad.
To learn more about 2020 On-site's services or to schedule a vision care day at your business or school, visit www.2020onsite.com.
About Atlanta Public Schools
Atlanta Public Schools is one of the largest school districts in the state of Georgia, serving approximately 50,000 students across 98 learning sites. The district is organized into nine K-12 clusters with 87 schools, 16 charter schools and two citywide single-gender academies, where students are offered rigorous instructional programs that foster success in school and life. For more information, visit www.atlantapublicschools.us
About 2020 On-site
2020 On-site is revolutionizing how vision care is delivered. 2020 is the only company bringing state-of-the-art mobile vision centers to businesses and schools so employees and students can get a comprehensive digital eye exam right outside their front door. Each mobile vision center is outfitted with a retail store that enables customers to purchase contacts and glasses on board. 2020 On-Site has more than 300 clients in Boston, Atlanta and Chicago, and is continuing to expand across the country. For more information please visit, www.2020Onsite.com.
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APS Contact:
Latisha Gray
Director of Communications
+1 404-802-2816
Email Contact
2020 Contact:
Michelle Faulkner
+1 617-510-6998
Email Contact
DALLAS, TX -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Zen Technologies, Inc. (Zen), a wholly-owned subsidiary of The CHRON Organization, Inc. (OTC: CHRO), announced today a full suite of social media channels for its home services business, as well as the launch of a weekly blog entitled, 'Thank God It's Zen (TGIZEN).' This blog collection hosts content covering a range of topics relevant to the Smart Home industry. Among these topics are original articles by the Zen Team, Q&A's with employees, third-party articles, insights and trends, tips and tricks, and sometimes, fun, quirky "smart" things from around the web.
The purpose of this weekly blog is to educate consumers about the Smart Home industry and to build brand awareness so the consumer is better informed when ready to make a buying decision. Each Friday, the Zen Team posts new content on the blog, which is shared across the Company's social networks. Shareholders and the general public can subscribe to and access the blog by clicking here.
Over the past several months, the Company has been strategically developing its digital ecosystem, with creative assets based on branded content from the livewithzen.com website, the Company style guide, and other content marketing resources. Effective today, all of Zen's social media outlets are live and can be accessed via the following links:
Facebook: Zen Technologies
Twitter: @livewithzen
Instagram: @livewithzen
YouTube: Zen Technologies
Google+: Zen Technologies, Inc.
LinkedIn: Zen Technologies, Inc.
CHRON Chairman Byron Young remarked, "We understand that we live in a tech dependent society in which a vast majority of the world's population keeps up with the news via social media, more so than any other channel today. So, having a quality social media ecosystem is no longer a luxury for brands, but a necessity, which is why we've been so vested in establishing a vibrant social media presence for Zen."
Over the past few months, Zen has been using all of its social networking platforms to communicate its brand message as an innovative technology company poised to bring Smart Homes to the masses across the U.S. Some of Zen's social media posts include the popular customer testimonial YouTube video series dubbed, 'My Zen Story.'
"A strong, consistent online presence across social media platforms is arguably as integral to a forward-thinking brand like Zen as an entire traditional marketing department," stated CHRON President and Zen CEO, Alex Rodriguez. "Over the past few months, we've witnessed increasing awareness of the Zen brand among our shareholders and the general public, courtesy of strategic Facebook and Instagram posts, timely tweets, and creative YouTube videos."
The Company has been creating and sharing a host of content communicating its brand message of being the premier modern smart home services company converging home automation, home security, and energy conservation services, all in one affordable offering.
Young added, "We're encouraged by the level of engagement we are already seeing from the general public in response to our social media content -- from likes to comments and shares, a trend we expect to continue as we grow our audience. We invite all CHRON shareholders and investors to interact with Zen through the weekly blog and social media sites and help us share our collective Zen Story across the country."
To keep up with Company news, updates, milestones, and promos, shareholders and the general public are strongly encouraged to subscribe to the blog and follow the Company on its various social media sites.
ABOUT ZEN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Zen Technologies, Inc. (Zen) is a next-generation technology company committed to bringing all the benefits of the "Smart Home" to millions of homeowners and apartment dwellers across the US, at an affordable price. Zen provides consumers a custom suite of products and services to enrich their lifestyle, however they want. Zen offers home automation, security monitoring, and energy conservation services, so families and individuals can connect to their home to perform everyday functions from the comfort and convenience of their smartphones or internet-connected smart devices. Zen combines our exclusive and customizable product solutions with green energy services, which allows our consumers to save money on their monthly energy costs, while reducing their long-term carbon footprint. To learn more, visit www.livewithzen.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release may contain forward-looking statements. The words "believe," "expect," "should," "intend," "estimate," "projects," variations of such words and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, but their absence does not mean that a statement is not a forward-looking statement. These forward-looking statements are based upon the company's current expectations and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ significantly from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements are risks that are detailed in the company's filings at www.OTCMarkets.com
INVESTORS & MEDIA CONTACT:
The CHRON Organization, Inc.
Email: investors@chronhomeservices.com
Phone: (469) 626-5275
Fax: (469) 626-5277
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Eastmain Resources Inc. (TSX: ER) ("Eastmain" or the "Company") welcomes you to meet with management during the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada 2017 Convention held March 5 - 8, 2017, at the Metro Convention Centre South Building in Toronto.
Core Shack: Booth: #3100 Session B (Tuesday and Wednesday) Corporate Presentation: Claude Lemasson, President and CEO Tuesday March 7 @ 3:40pm Session in Room 803: Gold Development 2
About Eastmain Resources Inc. (TSX: ER)
Eastmain is a Canadian exploration company with 100% interest in the Eau Claire and Eastmain Mine gold deposits, both of which are located within the James Bay District of Quebec. Clearwater, host of the Eau Claire deposit, is the Company's core asset with access to superior infrastructure in a favourable mining jurisdiction. Eastmain also holds a pipeline of exploration projects in this new Canadian mining district, including being a partner in the Eleonore South Joint Venture.
Forward Looking Statements - Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of Eastmain, including, but not limited to details and timing of exploration programs of Eastmain currently proposed for 2016, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, dependence upon regulatory approvals and the availability of financing. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
Contacts:
Claude Lemasson
President and CEO
+1 647-347-3765
lemasson@eastmain.com
Alison Dwoskin
Manager Investor Relations
+1 647-347-3735
dwoskin@eastmain.com
MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario, will make an announcement in support of an innovative telecommunications company.
Minister Bains will be available to answer questions from the media, following the announcement.
Please note that all details are subject to change. All times are local.
DATE: Friday, March 3, 2017 TIME: 2:30 p.m. - Tour 3:00 p.m. - Announcement PLACE: iS5 Communications Inc. #1-1815 Meyerside Drive Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1G3
Contacts:
Media Relations Office
FedDev Ontario
416-954-6652
fdo.mediarel-relmedias.fdo@canada.ca
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - US President Donald Trump has announced plans to undertake a major expansion of the US Navy fleet, including a fleet of 12 aircraft carriers.
Speaking from the deck of America's newest aircraft carrier Thursday, Trump said he spoke with Navy and industry leaders and discussed his plans. 'In these troubled times, our Navy is the smallest it's been since World War I. Don't worry, it's going to soon be the largest.'
Currently, the US Navy has a fleet of 10 aircraft carriers, some of which are more than four decades old.
Trump said that after years of endless budget cuts that have impaired US defenses, he is calling for one of the largest defense-spending increases in history. 'And by eliminating the sequester and the uncertainty it creates, we will make it easier for the Navy to plan for the future and thus to control costs and get the best deals for the taxpayer,' he told sailors aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford.
Trump described the huge military vessel, which will carry 4,500 personnel and 70 aircraft, as a monument to American might that will provide the strength necessary to ensure peace.
The military requires sustained, stable funding to meet the growing needs placed on US Defense, according to him. 'Many of the aging frontline strike-fighters are often more likely to be downed for maintenance than they are to be up in the sky.'
Trump stressed the need for more aircraft, modernized capabilities, and greater force levels, as well as the need to vastly improve cyber capabilities. 'This great rebuilding effort will create many jobs in Virginia, and all across America, and it will also spur new technology and new innovation.'
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OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Northern Graphite Corporation ("Northern" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: NGC)(OTCQX: NGPHF) announces that it plans to complete a non-brokered private placement of up 8.33 million units at a price of $0.30 per unit for gross proceeds of up to $2.5 million. Each unit will consist of one common share and one half of one common share purchase warrant with each full warrant entitling the holder to purchase one common share at a price of $0.40 per share for a period of two years. The securities to be issued will be subject to a four month hold period from the date of closing and the placement is subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange. It is anticipated that the net proceeds of the placement will be used to:
1. Finalize operational permitting for the Bissett Creek graphite project; 2. Update the bankable feasibility study for the project to reflect a substantial decline in the CDN/US exchange rate, lower oil prices and more competitive equipment pricing, and to integrate some modifications to the flow sheet; 3. Conduct a pilot plant test of the Company's proprietary purification process which has the potential to provide a substantial competitive advantage in the manufacture of anode material for lithium ion batteries; and 4. Working capital and general corporate purposes.
Finders' fees will be payable on part of the placement and consist of 6.5% in cash, and warrants equal to 6.5% of the units issued with each warrant exercisable to acquire one common share at a price of $0.35 for a period of one year.
This press release is for informational purposes only and shall not be constituted as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the units nor shall there be any sale of the units in any jurisdiction in which such sale would be unlawful.
About Northern Graphite
Northern is a Canadian company that has a 100% interest in the Bissett Creek graphite deposit located in southern Canada, relatively close to all required infrastructure. Bissett Creek is an advanced stage project that has a Full Feasibility Study and its major environmental permit. Subject to the completion of operational and species at risk permitting, which are well advanced, Northern could commence construction in 2017 pending financing. The Company believes Bissett Creek has the highest margin, best flake size distribution and lowest marketing risk of any new graphite project, and has the added advantages of low capital costs and realistic production levels relative to the size of the market.
Gregory Bowes, B.Sc. MBA, P. Geo., a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101, has reviewed and is responsible for the technical information in this press release.
This press release contains forward-looking statements, which can be identified by the use of statements that include words such as "could", "potential", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "likely", "will" or other similar words or phrases. These statements are only current predictions and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our or our industry's actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts:
Northern Graphite Corporation
Gregory Bowes
CEO
(613) 241-9959
NEW YORK, NY -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- First Foods Group, Inc. (OTCQB: FIFG) (the "Company"), a fully reporting Company with planned diversified interests in the food and food service industry, is pleased to announce the effectuation of the Company's formal name change from Litera Group, LLC, to First Foods Group, Inc.
The name change was approved by the Company's Board of Directors and its majority shareholder on February 15, 2017 and the stock is now trading under the ticker "FIFG."
"We are most pleased to see our business model appropriately aligned with our corporate name and trading symbol," said Harold L. Kestenbaum, Chairman and interim CEO of First Foods Group, Inc. "I believe we have assembled an exceptional team of industry veterans and creative thinkers to explore an array of opportunities and I expect to provide updates on a number of projects in short order."
Kestenbaum brings to First Foods Group a wealth of experience and c-level relationships in the franchise industry. As a lawyer who has specialized in franchise law and other matters relating to franchising since 1977, Kestenbaum previously served as general counsel and Director to Sbarro, Inc., the national franchisor of more than 1,000 family-style Italian restaurants and served as president and chairman of the board of FranchiseIt Corporation, the first publicly traded company specializing in providing business franchise marketing and consulting services and equity financing to emerging franchise companies, which he also co-founded. He has also advanced the franchise successes of leading brands including Nathan's Famous, Five Guys Burgers, Bagel Boss and more. (For a full list of clients visit http://franchiseatty.com/clients/)
"We are also pleased to announce that Integrity Media has been retained to handle our interaction with current and prospective shareholders, financial media, and other members of the financial community. Integrity Media has a long history of increasing transparency, quality of communication, and assisting shareholders of their client companies," added Kestenbaum.
About First Foods Group, Inc.:
First Foods Group, Inc. ("1st Food") was formed to provide management services and funding options for new foodservice brands and menu concepts. First Foods Group, Inc. is also growing its own new concepts, both through proprietary development and through mergers, acquisitions, and licensing arrangements. 1st Food has assembled a team of distinguished food service professionals with experience and success at the highest levels of the industry.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In addition to statements which explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements labeled with the terms "believes", "belief", "expects", "intends", "anticipates", "will", or "plans" to be uncertain and forward looking. The forward-looking statements contained herein are also subject generally to other risks and uncertainties that are described from time to time in the company's reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
CONTACT:
Investor Relations & Financial Media
Integrity Media
888-216-3595
info@integrityir.com
COMPANY:
First Foods Group, Inc.
201-471-0988
info@firstfoodgrp.com
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Aumento Capital V Corporation (TSX VENTURE: AMN.P) ("Aumento") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive acquisition agreement (the "Agreement") with WeedMD RX Inc., a corporation existing under the federal laws of Canada ("WMD"), which outlines the terms and conditions pursuant to which Aumento and WMD will complete the transaction that will result in a reverse take-over of Aumento by the shareholders of WMD (the "Transaction"). The Agreement was negotiated at arm's length and is effective as of March 2, 2017.
The Transaction is subject to requisite regulatory approval, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV").
Aumento is incorporated under the provisions of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) with its registered and head office in Toronto, Ontario. It is a capital pool company and intends for the Transaction to constitute its "Qualifying Transaction" as such term is defined in the policies of the TSXV. Aumento is a "reporting issuer" in the provinces of Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta.
Since the Transaction is not a non-arm's length transaction, Aumento is not required to obtain shareholder approval for the Transaction.
Trading in the common shares of Aumento has been halted. It is unlikely that the common shares of Aumento will resume trading until the Transaction is completed and approved by the TSXV.
Conditions to Transaction
Prior to completion of the Transaction (and as conditions of closing, among other things):
-- The parties will prepare a filing statement in accordance with the rules of the TSXV, outlining the terms of the Transaction. -- WMD will obtain the requisite shareholder approvals for the Transaction. -- All requisite regulatory approvals relating to the Transaction, including, without limitation, TSXV approval, will have been obtained.
The Transaction
Pre-Closing Capitalization of Aumento
As of the date hereof, Aumento has 1,939,682 common shares ("Aumento Shares") issued and outstanding and options to acquire an aggregate of 184,832 additional Aumento Shares at an exercise price of $0.60 per Aumento Share.
Pre-Closing Capitalization of WMD
As of the date hereof, WMD's authorized capital consists of an unlimited number of common shares ("WMD Shares"), of which 36,738,573 are issued and outstanding, and another 900,000 which are contractually to be issued upon the occurrence of certain events. WMD also has outstanding securities exercisable or exchangeable for, or convertible into, or other rights to acquire, an aggregate of 1,759,990 WMD Shares at an exercise price of $1.00 per share. WMD has also granted 2,650,000 stock options held by officers, directors and consultants of WMD with each option exercisable into a WMD Share for a period of 10 years at an exercise price of $0.75 per WMD Share for 2,400,000 options and $1.00 per WMD Share for the other 250,000 options.
Concurrent Financing
In November 2016, WMD closed a principal amount $7,600,000 convertible debenture unit financing (the "Convertible Debenture Financing") with a syndicate of agents led by Dundee Securities Ltd., and including Canaccord Genuity Corp. and Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. (the "Agents"). Pursuant to the Convertible Debenture Financing, WMD issued 7,600 units (the "Units"), with each Unit comprised of one debenture (a "Debenture") with a principal amount of $1,000 and 1,333 warrants (the "Warrants"). Immediately prior to completion of the Transaction, the principal amount of the Debentures will be automatically convertible into common shares of WMD at a conversion price of $0.75 per share. The Warrants are exercisable into common shares of WMD at an exercise price of $1.00 per share (upon completion of the Transaction, such Warrants to be exercisable into common shares at an exercise price as adjusted by the Exchange Ratio (as defined below)) for a period of two years from the completion of the Transaction.
As partial consideration for their services, the Agents were issued 352,000 compensation options (the "Compensation Options"). Each Compensation Option will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one unit of WMD at an exercise price of $0.75 for a period of two years from the completion of the Transaction, with each unit being comprised of one common share of WMD and one Warrant (all as adjusted by the Exchange Ratio).
Terms of the Transaction
Aumento will acquire all of the common shares of WMD pursuant to the terms of the Definitive Agreement by exchanging 1.25 common shares of Aumento for each common share of WMD (the "Exchange Ratio").
Directors and Management of the Resulting Issuer
The following are summaries of those individuals considered Insiders of the Resulting Issuer. The summaries include each individual's expected positions with the Resulting Issuer and relevant work and educational backgrounds:
Bruce Dawson-Scully - Chief Executive Officer & Director - Bruce has worked in the Long-Term Care industry for 22 years, most recently for Leisureworld Senior Care Corporation. He brings both management and government relations expertise. Bruce has been the operations lead on 15 large company, government-regulated startups in long-term care and retirement industry. Bruce has experience in international healthcare consulting to Chinese government in Beijing. He is currently serving as Vice President of MICBA, a non-profit organization that supports seniors in Peel. Bruce has also had extensive experience in all aspects of the development of over 15 luxury retirement and long term care facilities across south western Ontario.
Keith Merker - Chief Financial Officer & Director - Keith holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and has over 15 years of experience working as a Finance Professional, with extensive emphasis on emerging growth public and private companies, corporate finance, accounting, business development, mergers/acquisitions and raising funding in the capital markets.
Dr. Luc C Duchesne - Chief Scientific Officer - Luc holds a PhD in plant biochemistry and has published 85 peer-reviewed scientific articles, book chapters and books. He enjoys 30 years' experience in the issues associated with the production and commercialization of natural products. He has taught as an adjunct professor in 8 universities and has acted on the editorial boards of scientific journals and has received multiple science and business awards including the 5NR Award for Leaders in Sustainability. He is a founding director of Autism Canada Foundation. He brings a unique understanding of regulatory compliance, experimental research and production.
Michael Kraft - Chairman & Director - Michael is a visionary and entrepreneur with more than 30 years of experience in sales, marketing and corporate management, with a strong record of success in both public and private company leadership. He has a formidable international network of industry and government leaders including 10 years of hands-on experience in China and other global markets. Michael has secured in excess of $100 Million in equity financing for projects in China, Latin America, Africa and abroad.
Gail Paech - Director - Gail is a highly focused, seasoned professional with over 25 years of senior executive experience in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. She is a former Associate Deputy Minister, Economic Development and Trade and Assistant Deputy Minister, Ministry of Health. During her tenure as a senior civil servant, Gail gained the reputation for her ability to head up large-scale, high-profile, provincial initiatives that resulted in system transformation and lasting change in the delivery of core public services. She possesses in-depth knowledge of government decision-making processes, having been responsible for policy formulation of both sector specific and government-wide policies, programs and the regulatory process. As interim CEO of the largest Long Term Care Association in Canada, Gail assisted in the development of consumer-oriented strategy that unleashed the innovation potential of the Long-Term Care sector while generating value for the healthcare system. As President and CEO of a large downtown Toronto hospital, Gail was responsible for implementing strategic direction which successfully repositioned the hospital during the province- wide restructuring program. Gail has considerable experience with a global consulting company where she was National Director responsible for the development and future direction of the healthcare practice across Canada. She conducted large scale health system redesign projects across the country.
David Danziger - Director - Mr. Danziger is a Chartered Professional Accountant and the Senior Vice President of Assurance Services at MNP LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, the fifth largest financial services and accounting firm in Canada. He also leads the firm's Public Markets practice. Mr. Danziger is experienced in management consulting and business advisory services. He was Chief Executive Officer and a director of Aumento Capital Corporation (now Annidis Corporation), a capital pool company that completed its qualifying transaction in June 2011, Aumento Capital II Corporation (now The Intertain Group), a capital pool company that completed its qualifying transaction in February 2014, Aumento Capital III Corporation (now Exo U Inc.), a capital pool company that completed its qualifying transaction in June 2013 and Aumento Capital IV Corporation (now GreenSpace Brands Inc.), a capital pool company that completed its qualifying transaction in April 2015. He is currently a director of Eurotin Inc. (TSXV), Euro Sun Mining Inc. (TSX), Era Resources Inc. (TSXV), Poydras Gaming Finance Inc. (TSXV) and Jackpotjoy PLC (LSE). He graduated with a B.Comm from the University of Toronto in 1978 and was designated a Chartered Accountant in 1983.
Rick Moscone - Director - Rick is a partner at the law firm of Fogler, Rubinoff LLP and acts for several public companies on the TSX and TSX Venture Exchange. Rick obtained an LL.B. from Queen's University and an MBA from Schulich School of Business.
About WeedMD RX Inc.
WeedMD is a licensed producer of medical cannabis pursuant to the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR). WeedMD operates a 25,000 square foot, scalable production facility in Aylmer, Ontario with four acres of property for future expansion. WeedMD is focused on providing consistent, quality medicine to the long-term care and assisted living markets in Canada through its comprehensive platform developed exclusively for that industry. WeedMD is dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners and furthering public understanding of the role medical cannabis can play as a viable alternative to prescription medication in relieving a variety of chronic medical conditions and illnesses.
Financial Information
Based on financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2015, audited in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards, WeedMD had a net loss of $2,581,425. As at December 31, 2015, WeedMD had total assets of $3,095,021 and total liabilities of $488,501 and negative shareholders' equity in the amount of $5,596,669.
Sponsorship
Eight Capital has been engaged by WeedMD to act as sponsor in respect of the Transaction.
All information contained in this news release with respect to Aumento and WMD was supplied by the parties respectively, for inclusion herein, and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.
Aumento will issue additional press releases related to the final legal structure of the Transaction, officers and directors of the resulting issuer, sponsorship and other material information as it becomes available.
Completion of the transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance and, if applicable, pursuant to the requirements of the TSXV, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.
Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the transaction, any information released or received with respect to the transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.
The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the terms and conditions of the proposed Transaction; the terms and conditions of the proposed Convertible Debenture Financing; future developments; use of funds; and the business and operations of the resulting issuer after the proposed transaction. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive shareholder or regulatory approvals; and the results of continued development, marketing and sales. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Aumento and WMD disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Contacts:
For further information regarding
the Transaction, please contact:
David Danziger
CEO
(416) 515-3923
david.danziger@mnp.ca
First Korean IT Services Solutions Provider Recognized for Its Mobile Solution Satisfying the Need for Enhanced Security and User Convenience
Samsung SDS announced it won the GSMA Global Mobile Award (Glomo) in recognition of the company's integrated mobile solution, Samsung Mobile Security Management Suite, at the MWC 2017 in Barcelona, Spain, on February 28 (local time).
This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170303005125/en/
Samsung SDS wins GSMA Glomo Award for Best Mobile Security or Anti-Fraud Solution. (Graphic: Business Wire)
Considered the Oscars of the IT industry, GSMA Glomo Awards are announced during the MWC event every year. This year's nominees were selected from a wide range of mobile solutions, services, and devices introduced to the market in 2016 and evaluated based on their level of innovation and contribution to the mobile industry. Rising above a crowded field, Samsung SDS was recognized as the "Best Mobile Security or Anti-Fraud Solution."
Samsung SDS Mobile Security Management Suite is a powerful, integrated offering that connects NexsignTM, a biometric authentication solution that verifies identity using fingerprint, voice, and facial information, to Enterprise Mobile Management (EMM) to enhance user convenience and tighten security on mobile devices at the same time.
Nexsign is the only PKI-based biometric authentication solution to have achieved Common Criteria certification, while Samsung SDS EMM received the first-ever U.S. Common Criteria certification for both AndroidTM and iOS.
Samsung SDS Mobile Security Management Suite continues to evolve as a leading solution in the public sector and financial services industry, further validating Samsung SDS's reliability, quality, and trustworthiness.
"SDS was honored to receive this world-renowned award for its competence in mobile security that global companies are focusing on," said Won-Pyo Hong, president of Solution Business at Samsung SDS. He added, "We hope to be a good example for many domestic and international businesses that are keen on promoting both security and user convenience."
To learn more about Samsung SDS visit our website.
About Samsung SDS America, Inc.
Samsung SDS America (SDSA) is the U.S. subsidiary of Samsung SDS, a global IT solutions company. SDSA provides purpose-built technology solutions in the areas of enterprise mobility, security, advanced analytics, mobile sales productivity, and training. We enable our customers in the public sector, finance, retail, and other industries to achieve greater freedom, more operational efficiency, and smarter decision making as the driving force for their competitive advantage. SDSA is headquartered in Ridgefield Park, NJ, with offices in Herndon, VA, and San Jose, CA.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170303005125/en/
Contacts:
Samsung SDS
Diane Carlson, 201-359-4102
d.carlson@samsung.com
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - U.S. forces conducted a series of precision strikes in Yemen against the al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula terrorist organization Thursday, Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. Jeff Davis said. In a statement, Davis said more than 20 strikes targeted militants, equipment and infrastructure in the Yemeni governorates of Abyan, Al Bayda and Shabwah. Conducted in partnership with Yemen's government, the strikes were coordinated with President Abd Rabuh Mansur Hadi, Davis said. The strikes will degrade the terrorist group's ability to coordinate external terror attacks and will limit its ability to use territory seized from Yemen's legitimate government as a safe space for terror plotting, the spokesman said, adding that targets of the strikes included militants, equipment, infrastructure, heavy weapons systems and fighting positions. Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula has taken advantage of ungoverned spaces in Yemen to plot, direct, and inspire terror attacks against the United States and its allies, and U.S. forces will continue to work with Yemen's government to defeat the organization and deny it the ability to operate in Yemen, Davis said. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2017) - Molori Energy Inc. (TSXV: MOL) (OTCQB: MOLOF) ("Molori" or the "Company") is pleased to report that it has entered into an agreement to acquire a 25% working interest in certain leases owned and operated by Ponderosa Energy, LLC. This acquisition is in addition to the 25% working interest in certain leases acquired on June 6, 2016 and further builds Molori's interest in the Texas Panhandle region to 79 leases.
The additional properties comprise of 24 leases and 156 wells of which 70 are presently producing. In January 2017 these leases produced an average of 108 barrels of oil equivalent per day ("BOEPD") and in February 2017, production increased to an average of 124 BOEPD.
The terms of the agreement require for Molori to pay 2,000,000 common shares and provide US $1,000,000 in cash at closing, which Ponderosa will apply to its ongoing program of work overs and enhanced production.
Joel Dumaresq, CEO of Molori stated: "In addition to increasing Molori's share of the Ponderosa Energy production, this latest acquisition further fortifies the Company's balance sheet and enhances cash flow. As operator, Ponderosa has outperformed our expectations and we are excited to be expanding our relationship."
The transaction is subject to TSX.V approval.
* Per BOE amounts have been calculated by using the conversion ratio of six thousand cubic feet (6 MCF) of natural gas to one barrel (1 bbl) of crude oil. The BOE conversion ratio of 6 mcf to 1 bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of natural gas as compared to oil is significantly different from the energy equivalent of 1:6, utilizing a conversion on a 1:6 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.
About Molori
Molori Energy Inc. is an oil and gas production company with current operations in the Texas Panhandle. Founded in 2011, the experienced management team is aggressively acquiring select properties which provide immediate cash flow and development opportunities, now and in the years ahead. Molori is seizing the opportunity, in the current oil & gas environment, to assemble oil and gas production in nearby and politically safe jurisdictions. Molori is pursuing a business plan, whereby the Company either purchases producing oil and gas assets at highly attractive rates, or in some cases simply takes on existing assets by way of purchasing or assuming default notes from small regional lenders and institutions.
Contact Information:
Joel Dumaresq
CEO and Director
Molori Energy Inc.
(604) 336 3193
joel@molorienergy.com
www.molorienergy.com
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEW RELEASE.
Cautionary Notes Regarding Forward Looking Statements
This News Release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include but are not limited to those with respect to the prices of oil and gas, the estimation of oil and gas resources and reserves, the realization of oil and gas reserve estimates, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, costs and timing of the development of new deposits, success of exploration activities, permitting time lines, currency fluctuations, requirements for additional capital, Government regulation of oil and gas operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims and limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes" or variations of such words and phrases, or statements 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. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the actual results of current exploration activities, conclusions or economic evaluations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, possible variations in grade and or recovery rates, failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, accidents, labour disputes or other risks of the oil & gas industry, delays in obtaining government approvals or financing or incompletion of development or construction activities, risks relating to the integration of acquisitions, to international operations, and to the prices of oil & gas. While the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. 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, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law.
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Positions the company to deliver next generation autonomous driving solutions
ON Semiconductor Corporation (Nasdaq: ON), driving energy efficient innovations, today announced it is establishing a new sensor fusion design center in Europe. This team has combined experience of more than 1,200 years in silicon design for digital and analog technologies. The center positions ON Semiconductor to extend its market leadership in image sensors for automotive ADAS and viewing applications with new capabilities in imaging and video signal processing for automated driving systems. By combining this design center with its recently acquired mmWave radar technology and design center in Israel, ON Semiconductor is uniquely positioned to provide sensor fusion solutions for next generation highly autonomous vehicles.
"The automotive image sensor market is growing rapidly driven through higher attach rates for ADAS and viewing systems and new applications for image sensors, such as driver monitoring, e-mirror and 360-degree sensing," said Ross Jatou, vice president and general manager Automotive Solutions Division of the Image Sensor Group. "Expanding our design capacity positions us to extend our leadership in established segments and to deliver new, world-class solutions for emerging segments."
The new United Kingdom design center for ON Semiconductor reports directly into the Automotive Solutions Division (ASD) within the Image Sensor Group. The new design center is located in Bracknell, England, and expands a global sensor design footprint that now includes major locations in the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, India and Israel.
About ON Semiconductor
ON Semiconductor (Nasdaq: ON) is driving energy efficient innovations, empowering customers to reduce global energy use. The company is a leading supplier of semiconductor-based solutions, offering a comprehensive portfolio of energy efficient power management, analog, sensors, logic, timing, connectivity, discrete, SoC and custom devices. The company's products help engineers solve their unique design challenges in automotive, communications, computing, consumer, industrial, medical, aerospace and defense applications. ON Semiconductor operates a responsive, reliable, world-class supply chain and quality program, a robust compliance and ethics program, and a network of manufacturing facilities, sales offices and design centers in key markets throughout North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific regions. For more information, visit http://www.onsemi.com.
Follow @onsemi on Twitter
ON Semiconductor and the ON Semiconductor logo are registered trademarks of Semiconductor Components Industries, LLC. All other brand and product names appearing in this document are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders. Although the company references its website in this news release, information on the website is not to be incorporated herein.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170307005341/en/
Contacts:
ON Semiconductor
Kris Pugsley, 312-909-0661
Corporate Communications Media Relations
kris.pugsley@onsemi.com
or
Parag Agarwal, 602-244-3437
Vice President Investor Relations and Corporate Development
investor@onsemi.com
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - A cross section of the US media hailed President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of the Congress which was marked by a shift in tone, even as he made no major policy changes.
Political observers say that Trump, after reaching the White House with fiery rhetorical attacks and a combative message, pitched his agenda to voters and Congress Tuesday night with language that was much more presidential and traditional in tone. He also issued a call for American renewal in stark contrast to the aggressively nationalist posture he outlined at his inauguration in January.
The White House released a compilation of editorials written on a number of newspapers analyzing the Trump speech.
New York post described it as the best speech of his life and the most remarkable speech in decades by a Chief Executive to a Joint Session of Congress.
'This was Trump's best day in the White House, because for the first time he expressed a desire to unify the country without baiting his speech with insults for his opponents. . This man looked presidential,' says Arizona Republic in its editorial, titled 'The Night Trump Became Our President.'
Springfield Republican wrote an editorial under the banner 'Trump Hits Reset Button With Address to Congress.'
What Americans will take away from Tuesday's address is a president who at last struck an inspiring, even bipartisan tone, according to Minneapolis Star Tribune.
In a welcome departure from his previous public speeches, President Donald Trump delivered a speech that was 'Poised and Disciplined,' Albuquerque Journal wrote.
In Lakeland Ledger's opinion, Trump delivered the most impressive speech of his fledgling political career.
The White House also quoted from the editorials of dailies such as Omaha World-Herald, Tulsa World, Charleston Daily Mail, Washington Times and Providence Journal.
Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE U.S.
Rubicon Minerals Corporation (TSX: RMX)(OTC PINK: RBYCD) ("Rubicon" or the "Company") announces it has closed its previously reported bought deal private placement financing of 3,895,000 flow-through common shares of the Company (the "Flow-Through Common Shares"), which includes the exercise of the underwriters' option in full, at a price of C$2.57 per Flow-Through Common Share for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of C$10,010,150 (the "Offering").
The Offering was conducted by a syndicate of underwriters led by BMO Capital Markets, Mackie Research Capital Corporation, and TD Securities Inc.
The gross proceeds from the Offering will be used for Canadian Exploration Expenses (("CEE")(within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada)), and the Company will renounce such CEE with an effective date of no later than December 31, 2017.
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to or for the account or benefit of a U.S. person (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
About Rubicon Minerals Corporation
Rubicon Minerals Corporation is an advanced gold exploration company that owns the Phoenix Gold Project, located in the prolific Red Lake gold district in northwestern Ontario, Canada. Additionally, Rubicon controls over 100 square miles of prime exploration ground in Red Lake and approximately 350 square miles of mineral property interests in the emerging Long Canyon gold district that straddles the Nevada-Utah border in the United States. Rubicon's shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (RMX).
RUBICON MINERALS CORPORATION
George Ogilvie, P.Eng., President and CEO
Cautionary Statement regarding Forward-Looking Statements and other Cautionary Notes
This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes", "intends", "may", "will", "should", "plans", "anticipates", "potential", "expects", "estimates", "forecasts", "budget", "likely", "goal" and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results may or may not be achieved or occur in the future. In some cases, forward-looking information may be stated in the present tense, such as in respect of current matters that may be continuing, or that may have a future impact or effect. Forward-looking statements reflect our current expectations and assumptions, and are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to statements regarding the anticipated use of proceeds of the Offering.
Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and represent management's best judgment based on facts and assumptions that management considers reasonable. If such opinions and estimates prove to be incorrect, actual and future results may be materially different than expressed in the forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Rubicon to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others: possible variations in mineralization, grade or recovery or throughput rates; uncertainty of mineral resources, inability to realize exploration potential, mineral grades and mineral recovery estimates; actual results of current exploration activities; actual results of reclamation activities; uncertainty of future operations, delays in completion of exploration plans for any reason including insufficient capital, delays in permitting, and labour issues; conclusions of future economic or geological evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; failure of equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents and other risks of the mining industry; delays and other risks related to operations; timing and receipt of regulatory approvals; the ability of Rubicon and other relevant parties to satisfy regulatory requirements; the ability of Rubicon to comply with its obligations under material agreements including financing agreements; the availability of financing for proposed programs and working capital requirements on reasonable terms; the ability of third-party service providers to deliver services on reasonable terms and in a timely manner; risks associated with the ability to retain key executives and key operating personnel; cost of environmental expenditures and potential environmental liabilities; dissatisfaction or disputes with local communities or First Nations or Aboriginal Communities; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; market conditions and general business, economic, competitive, political and social conditions; the implementation and impact of the Restructuring Transaction; our ability to generate sufficient cash flow from operations or obtain adequate financing to fund our capital expenditures and working capital needs and meet our other obligations; the volatility of our stock price, and the ability of our common stock to remain listed and traded on the TSX; our ability to maintain relationships with suppliers, customers, employees, stockholders and other third parties in light of our current liquidity situation and the CCAA proceedings.
Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and Rubicon disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Readers are advised to carefully review and consider the risk factors identified in the Company's annual information form dated March 21, 2016 under the heading "Risk Factors" and in other continuous disclosure documents of the Company filed at www.sedar.com for a discussion of the factors that could cause Rubicon's actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Readers are further cautioned that the foregoing list of assumptions and risk factors is not exhaustive and it is recommended that prospective investors consult the more complete discussion of Rubicon's business, financial condition and prospects that is included in this news release. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.
Contacts:
Rubicon Minerals Corporation
Allan Candelario
Director, Investor Relations and Corporate Development
+1 (416) 766-2804
ir@rubiconminerals.com
www.rubiconminerals.com
LONDON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
2016 saw a near-threefold rise in mobile malware detections compared to 2015 - with a total of 8.5 million malicious installations identified. This means that, in the space of just one year, a volume equivalent to 50 per cent of all the malware detected in the previous 11 years (15.77 million in 2004 - 2015) was released. Leading the way were mobile advertising Trojans which now make up 16 of the top 20 malicious programs, up from 12 in 2015. These are the findings of Kaspersky Lab's annual Mobile Virusology report, which also highlights the evolution of mobile banking Trojans. Specialist officers from INTERPOL's Global Complex for Innovation have contributed an analysis of mobile malware on the Dark Web to the report.
In 2016, Kaspersky Lab mobile security products reported:
Nearly 40 million attack attempts by mobile malware, with over 4 million users of Android-based devices protected (vs 2.6 million in 2015)
Over 260,000 detections of installation packages for mobile ransomware Trojans (an increase of almost 8.5 times, year-on-year)
More than 153,000 unique users targeted by mobile ransomware (an increase of 1.6 times compared with 2015)
Over 128,000 mobile banking Trojans detected (nearly 1.6 times more than in 2015)
Advertising Trojan: is your device already rooted?
The most widespread type of Trojan in 2016 was the advertising variety, accounting for 16 of the top 20 malware programs
These Trojans are capable of seizing rooting rights, allowing the malware to not only aggressively display ads on the infected device, often making it impossible to use, but also to secretly install other applications. These Trojans can also buy apps on Google Play.
In many cases, the Trojans were able to exploit previously patched vulnerabilities because the user had not installed the latest update.
Further, this malware simultaneously installs its modules in the system directory, which makes the treatment of the infected device very difficult. Some advertising Trojans are even able to infect the recovery image, making it impossible to solve the problem by restoring the device to factory settings.
Representatives of this class of malicious software have been repeatedly found in the official Google Play app store, for example, masquerading as a guide for Pokemon GO. In this case, the app was downloaded over 500,000 times, and is detected as a Trojan.AndroidOS.Ztorg.ad.
Mobile ransomware: further development
In 2016, 153,258 unique users from 167 countries were attacked by Trojan-Ransom programs; this is 1.6 times more than in 2015.
Modern ransomware overlays windows with demand messages, thus making it impossible to use the device. This principle was used by the most popular mobile ransomware program in 2016 - Trojan-Ransom.AndroidOS.Fusob.
This Trojan mostly attacks users in Germany, the US and the UK, but avoids users from the CIS and some neighboring countries. Once launched, it runs a check of the device language and, after achieving some results, it may stop execution. The cybercriminals behind the Trojan usually demand between $100 and $200 to unblock a device. The ransom has to be paid using codes from pre-paid iTunes cards.
Mobile banking Trojan: a skyrocketing threat
In 2016, over 305,000 users in 164 countries were attacked by mobile banking Trojans, compared with over 56,000 users in 137 countries the previous year.
Russia , Australia and Ukraine are the top 3 countries affected in terms of the percentage of users attacked by mobile banking Trojans relative to all users hit by mobile malware.
Mobile banking Trojans continued to evolve through the year. Many of them gained tools to bypass the new Android security mechanisms and were able to continue stealing user information from the most recent versions of the OS. At the same time, the developers of mobile banking Trojans repeatedly enhanced their creations with new capabilities. For instance, the Marcher family, in addition to implementing the usual banking applications' overlay, redirected users from financial institutions' websites to phishing pages.
The Dark Web delusion
According to specialist officers from INTERPOL's Global Complex for Innovation, who have also contributed to the report, the Dark Web remains an attractive medium for conducting illicit businesses and activities. Given its robust anonymity, low prices and client-oriented strategy, the Dark Web provides a means for criminal actors to communicate and engage in commercial transactions, buying and selling various products and services, including mobile malware kits. Mobile malware is offered for sale as software packages (e.g. remote access Trojans - RATs), individual solutions and sophisticated tools, like those developed by professional firms or, on a smaller scale, as part of a 'Bot as a Service' model. Mobile malware is also a 'subject of interest' on vendor shops, forums and social media.
"In 2016, the growth in the number of advertising Trojans capable of exploiting super-user rights continued. Throughout the year, it was the top threat and we see no sign of this trend changing. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the fact that most devices do not receive OS updates (or receive them late), and are thus vulnerable to old, well-known and readily available exploits. Moreover, we see that the mobile landscape is getting a little crowded for cybercriminals, and they are beginning to interact more with the world beyond smartphones. Perhaps in 2017 we will see major attacks on IoT components launched from mobile devices," concludes Roman Unuchek, Senior Malware Analyst at Kaspersky Lab USA.
To learn more about the mobile malware evolution in 2016, read the blog post available at Securelist.com.
About Kaspersky Lab
Kaspersky Lab is a global cybersecurity company founded in 1997. Kaspersky Lab's deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into security solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection and a number of specialised security solutions and services to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky Lab technologies and we help 270,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them.
Learn more at www.kaspersky.co.uk
Editorial contact:
BerkeleyGlobal
LaurenWhite
kasperskylab@berkeley.global
Telephone:+44-(0)-118-909-0909
1650ArlingtonBusinessPark
RG74SA,Reading
KasperskyLabUK
StephanieFergusson
Stephanie.Fergusson@kasperskylab.co.uk
Telephone:+44-(0)-771-410-7292
2KingdomStreet
W26BD,London
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Alset Energy Corp. (TSX VENTURE: ION) ("Alset" or "the Company") is pleased to report on recent laboratory results. This work tested leaching characteristics of soils, or unconsolidated salar infill material, collected at three of the Company's lithium-rich salars in Mexico. These tests were done to better understand the recovery potential of lithium. The results demonstrate 79%, 86%, and 97% Lithium ("Li") recovery using a weak acid leach and are summarized in Table 1.
Allan Barry Laboucan, President and CEO of Alset Energy stated: "After we received very encouraging lab results on the chemical compositions of 30 historical samples (see Alset PR December 7, 2016), our team is now delighted that we have passed another important milestone with the recovery of up to 97% of the lithium from soil samples using a weak acid leach. This shows that our salars soils are a promising source of lithium that warrants further investigation. Our next major milestone will be the granting of drill permits - these applications are well underway. The goal of drilling will be to better understand the historical work conducted to date, to explore for brines within the salars and provides an opportunity to collect new soil samples to further investigate the lithium recovery potential from this material. The body of historical results are significant to our investigation and are currently being interpreted. We are also excited to announce that we have entered into a consulting agreement with Synexus (Pty) Limited ("Synexus") as we move forward in investigating cost-effective process options for the recovery of lithium and other values from the salars."
Synexus is unique in their utilization of membrane separation technology for the selective recovery of lithium. Membrane technology has significant advantages compared to traditional evaporation pond-type lithium recovery methods, amongst others; dramatically reducing production time, higher recovery rates, mitigating challenges associated with higher Mg/Li ratios, and allows recovery of other values found at economic concentrations within our salars.
Table 1: Lithium Results
Activation Laboratories - Report Number: A16-13646 (report dates: 2/2/2017; 21/2/2017; 22/2/2017)
4-Acid Digestion Composite Sample Number Salar Li (ppm) -------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------- COMPOSITE A16-10795 (1-10) Santa Clara 464 COMPOSITE A16-10795 (11-20) La Salada 1460 COMPOSITE A16-10795 (21-30) Caliguey 1040 Weak Acid Leach Recovery Li (ppm) (%) ------------------------------- ------------------------------- 368 79 1250 86 1010 97
Lithium head assay results range from 464 to 1460ppm Li, which closely mirrors of recent and historical results. The weak acid leachate results range from 368 to 1250ppm Li representing 79 to 97% recovery of lithium from soils.
In addition to the encouraging lithium leach results potassium ("K") leach results, summarized in Table 2 indicate this value may represent a by-product with economic significance. The potassium head assays range from 24700 to 41000ppm K. The weak acid leach demonstrated a recovery of 40 to 82%, or 15500 to 20300ppm K.
Table 2: Potassium Results
Activation Laboratories - Report Number: A16-13646 (report dates: 2/2/2017; 21/2/2017; 22/2/2017)
4-Acid Digestion Composite Sample Number Salar K (%) K (ppm) ----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------- COMPOSITE A16-10795 (1-10) Santa Clara 4.1 41000 COMPOSITE A16-10795 (11-20) La Salada 2.47 24700 COMPOSITE A16-10795 (21-30) Caliguey 3.84 38400 Weak Acid Leach Recovery K (%) K (ppm) (%) -------------------------------- -------------------------------- 1.97 19700 48 2.03 20300 82 1.55 15500 40
These results are considered preliminary investigations into the leaching characteristics of the soils, or unconsolidated salar infill material. The favorable Li recoveries using a weak acid leach indicate further sampling and leach testing is warranted. Selected results of interest are reported; the complete table of results will be posted on Alset's website or can be obtained by request.
Methodology: In order to achieve representative leach results of material from the Santa Clara, La Salada and Caliguey salars, one composite sample was created for each salar. The composite sample was created by combining material from thirty historical samples that were collected during historical sampling efforts completed by LitioMex (2009-2011) and submitted to Activation Laboratories (Zacatecas, Mexico and Ancaster, Ontario) in 2016 for geochemical evaluation and X-ray diffraction analysis (see Alset NR October 4, 2016 and Alset NR December 7, 2016). Upon completion of these analyses, the remaining material was used to create composite samples by mixing and homogenizing ten samples from each salar into one composite sample to represent each salar. A portion of the sample was then analyzed using an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) procedure with a four-acid total digestion to determine the geochemical composition or "head" grade. The remaining material from each composite sample was divided into two aliquots, one was leached with hot water and the other with weak acid (aqua regia). Both leachates were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to determine their composition.
Emily Hanson, PGeo, Vice-President of Exploration for Alset Energy Corp., is the qualified person responsible for this release and has prepared, supervised and approved the preparation of the scientific and technical disclosure contained within the release.
About Alset Energy (ION.V)
Alset Energy is a TSX-V listed junior exploration company focused on exploring and acquiring mineral properties containing the metals needed by today's high-tech industries. The Company is actively exploring in Mexico and Canada.
On behalf of the Board of Directors of Alset Energy Corp.,
Allan Barry Laboucan, President and CEO
THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements."
Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to gold price and other commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections
Contacts:
Alset Energy Corp.
Allan Barry Laboucan
(604) 505-4753
www.alsetenergy.ca
LONDON, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)
A new incubation program, BURST, will provide 30 innovative technology entrepreneurs in southwestern Ontario with the skills they need to succeed now and in the future.
Today, Kate Young, Member of Parliament for London West, and Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament for London North Centre, announced that FedDev Ontario is providing TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario with up to $1.32 million to deliver the new program. Through TechAlliance's BURST, companies will receive mentoring and business guidance, seed funding, exposure to potential investors and access to a dedicated working space in Western University's Discovery Park.
As entrepreneurs establish and grow their businesses with help from this program, it is expected that up to 45 new full-time jobs will be created.
Building on London's history of innovation in health sciences, a unique partnership with the London Medical Network will also be established to help eligible medical technology companies receive funding.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario.
For more information on this program, funded through FedDev Ontario's Investing in Business Innovation initiative, please see the backgrounder.
Quotes
"The support that TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario provides for businesses in this region is invaluable. The Government of Canada is proud to help TechAlliance expand its offerings to include access to seed funding, which is critical for early-stage businesses."
-- Kate Young, Member of Parliament for London West
"FedDev Ontario's support for TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario is helping local entrepreneurs develop their business skills and launch promising start-up companies. With a focus on commercializing medical technologies, this incubation program builds on this region's strengths and resources in the life sciences sector."
-- Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament for London North Centre
"The BURST program will unite many of the services and resources available to the city's entrepreneurs in a whole new way, representing a unique and exciting opportunity for London. We appreciate the support from FedDev Ontario and the London Medical Network to help give 30 companies an opportunity to succeed, create jobs and bring new revenues into the city's economy."
-- Marilyn Sinclair, President & Chief Executive Officer, TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario
Quick Facts
-- TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario is a not-for-profit corporation that offers services to help start, grow and connect companies, at all stages of growth, in many industries including digital media, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and clean technology. -- TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario was founded in 2002, and in 2010 it was integrated as one of the 17 Regional Innovation Centres (RICs) established within the Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs (ONE) program. -- TechAlliance serves companies in its catchment area of Lambton, Huron, Elgin, Middlesex, and Oxford counties. -- This project will leverage up to $900,000 in matching funding from companies participating in the program. Eligible medical technology companies will receive the required matched funding from the London Medical Network.
Related Products
Backgrounder: FedDev Ontario's Contribution to TechAlliance's BURST Program
Associated Links
Investing in Business Innovation initiative TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario TechAlliance's BURST Program
Backgrounder
Through the Investing in Business Innovation initiative, FedDev Ontario is providing TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario with a non-repayable contribution of up to $1.32 million to deliver the BURST program. This new incubator program will provide skills development opportunities, mentorship and access to capital to innovative early-stage technology companies in southwestern Ontario. As entrepreneurs establish and grow their businesses with help from this program, it is expected that up to 45 new full-time jobs will be created.
TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario will run the BURST program in three cohorts.
Each BURST recipient will receive:
-- Up to $30,000 in seed financing, matched by the business; -- Up to $10,000 in training, mentoring and business guidance; and -- Access to dedicated working space at Western University's Discovery Park.
Eligible technology companies from the life science, medical device and health information fields will be provided with the required matched seed funding of up to $30,000 from the London Medical Network.
Mentoring and training will focus on four fundamental pillars needed for a successful company: market validation, company structure, intellectual property and investor readiness.
Local organizations, such as Leap Junction, the Centre for Imaging Technology and Commercialization, the Ivey International Centre for Health Innovation and the Southwestern Ontario Angel Group will refer start-up companies to the program and provide expertise to BURST participants.
Each cohort will conclude with a Demonstration Day, where participants will showcase their technologies to potential investors and industry representatives.
Applications are now being accepted for the first cohort. For further details, including how to apply, please see the BURST website.
About TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario
TechAlliance offers services to help start, grow and connect companies in many industries including digital media, the life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and clean technology. These services include access to valuable expertise, seed funding, educational programs and workshops, industry-specific events, and a comprehensive membership program.
London Medical Network
The London Medical Network is a new initiative, bringing together the city's world-class medical and healthcare practitioners, researchers and academics. The Network is a cross-discipline, world-class enterprise that will initiate and translate medical discoveries into market-ready health care solutions, contributing to a healthier world and a wealthier local economy.
FedDev Ontario's Investing in Business Innovation Initiative
The Investing in Business Innovation (IBI) initiative aims to strengthen the innovation ecosystem in southern Ontario. It helps new entrepreneurs become investment-ready through seed financing and skills development. It helps early-stage businesses with a product or service to further develop and bring it to market.
Related Products
News Release: FedDev Ontario Invests $1.32 Million to Support 30 Companies and Create Jobs
Contacts:
Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
416-954-6652
fdo.mediarel-relmedias.fdo@canada.ca
Toll Free: 1-866-593-5505
www.FedDevOntario.gc.ca
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- North Sea Energy Inc. ("NSE" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: NUK) announces the following:
At the request of IIROC the Company wishes to confirm that the Company's management is unaware of any material changes in the Company's operations that would account for the recent increase in market activity.
About NSE:
The Company, founded in February 2007, is a UK focused oil and gas exploration and appraisal company quoted on the TSX-V. NSE, along with its wholly owned subsidiary, North Sea Energy (UK NO2) Limited, holds a 20% interest in two high impact opportunities in the UK North Sea. These opportunities are the Bagpuss and Blofeld prospects located in blocks 13/24c and 13/25 of the UKCS.
Forward-looking statements
Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "forecast", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information.
In particular, there can be no certainty that analysis of the hydrocarbons and reservoir will result in commerciality being established. Factors which may cause commerciality not to be established include risks and uncertainties such as analysis concluding that the hydrocarbons are not of a commercially interesting grade, logistical challenges associated with extracting in the North Sea, oil prices, access to financing (for a full list of risks please refer to our financial statements and management discussion and analysis filed on www.sedar.com).
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts:
North Sea Energy Inc.
Ian Lambert
CEO
416-366-4700
ilambert@northseaenergy.ca
www.northseaenergy.ca
Technavio analysts forecast the global carbon nanotube (CNT) marketto grow at a staggering CAGR of almost 22% 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/20170303005030/en/
Technavio has published a new report on the global carbon nanotube (CNT) market from 2017-2021. (Graphic: Business Wire)
The research study covers the present scenario and growth prospects of the global CNTmarketfor 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the revenue generated from the sales of CNTs worldwide.
The production capacities of CNTs will expand due to their growing demand. Factors such as the need to enhance the efficiency of electronic and semiconductor products, high use of CNTs in the aerospace and defense sectors, and the need to increase the efficiency of energy-sector-related devices are driving the market.
Request a sample report: http://www.technavio.com/request-a-sample?report=56756
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 hardware and semiconductoranalysts highlight the following three factors that are contributing to the growth of the global CNT market:
Advantages due to physical properties
Potential to replace other materials
Rise in production capacities
Advantages due to physical properties
The structure of CNTs is closely related to graphite, which is traditionally made by stacking sheets of carbon on top of another. These sheets can easily slide over each other. CNTs are made by rolling these sheets into a cylinder, with their edges joined. This structure offers extraordinary electrical, mechanical, optical, thermal, and chemical properties to CNTs.
Sunil Kumar Singh, a lead embedded systems analyst at Technavio, says, "Being a carbon-based product, CNTs are not vulnerable to environmental or physical degradation issues. Due to this advantage, CNTs are in high demand and are used in multiple applications such as medicine, aerospace and defense, electronics, automotive, energy, construction, and sports
Potential to replace other materials
CNTs have the potential to replace the key materials in some industries such as semiconductor and energy. Research centers are developing CNTs that can be used in solar cells as an alternative to silicon, which is the key material used in producing electricity from solar energy. By using CNTs instead of silicon, the conversion efficiency of solar cells can be enhanced.
"CNTs have the potential to replace indium-tin-coated films, which are fragile and expensive. These films are used in liquid crystal displays, solar cells, organic light-emitting diodes, touchscreens, and high-strength materials like bulletproof vests and hydrogen fuel cells used to power cars," adds Sunil.
Rise in production capacities
Production capacity for CNTS for 2015 was 4,567 metric tons globally. MWCNT dominates this market space due to its low production cost and high-scalability. Whereas, SWCNT still has issues with scaling up the volume produced and reduced the cost. Techniques available for CNT production such as substrate-free growth and substrate-bound growth while deploying vapor-solid-solid (VSS) and vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) are widely adopted for catalyst-based synthesis.
Many CNT vendors are investing heavily in new production facilities to meet the growing demand from sectors such as consumer goods, electrical and electronics, energy, healthcare, automobile, and aerospace and defense. Among countries, China has increased the production of CNTs backed by high government funding for nanomaterials.
Top vendors:
Cnano Technology
Nanocyl
Showa Denko
Browse Related Reports:
Global Carbon Fiber Market 2016-2020
Global Advanced Composites Market 2016-2020
Global Nanofiber Market 2016-2020
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 displays,lighting, and sensors. 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 media@technavio.com.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170303005030/en/
Contacts:
Technavio Research
Jesse Maida
Media Marketing Executive
US: +1 630 333 9501
UK: +44 208 123 1770
www.technavio.com
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2017) - Grizzly Discoveries Inc. (TSXV: GZD) (OTCPK: GZDIF) (FSE: G6H) ("Grizzly" or the "Company") has issued the first payment of shares to AGORA Internet Relations Corp. ("AGORA") pursuant to a "shares for services" advertising agreement with AGORA (the "Agreement") announced on February 23, 2017. The TSX Venture Exchange has accepted the Agreement.
The Company issued 180,800 common shares to AGORA for a deemed value of $9,040 based on the closing price of the Company's common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange on March 1, 2017. The deemed value includes $1,040 in HST.
The Agreement requires additional share payments to AGORA in common shares of the Company with aggregate value of $32,000 plus HST in equal quarterly installments with the next payment due subsequent to June 1, 2017. The common shares have been issued to AGORA in reliance upon available prospectus exemptions and are subject to restrictions on trading until July 3, 2017 in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange.
About AGORACOM
AGORACOM is the pioneer of online investor relations, online conferences and online branding services to North American small and mid-cap public companies, with more than 250 companies served. More than just lip service, AGORACOM is the home of more than 808K investors that visited 5.6 million times and read 52.4 million pages of information every year (Average 2008 - 2015).
AGORACOM traffic ranks within the top 0.5% of all websites around the world. These traffic results are independently tracked and verified by Google analytics. AGORACOM traffic can be attributed to its strategy of maintaining the cleanest, moderated small-cap discussion as a result of implementing the first ever Investor Controlled Stock Discussion Forums.
AGORACOM Founder, George Tsiolis, publishes the leading blog on small to mid-cap investor relations. His 50 Small-Cap CEO Lessons are a must read for CEO's looking to increase their education and knowledge about online investor relations.
ABOUT GRIZZLY DISCOVERIES INC.
Grizzly is a diversified Canadian mineral exploration company with its primary listing on the TSX Venture Exchange with 52.6 million shares issued, focused on developing significant Potash assets in Alberta and its precious metals properties in southeastern British Columbia. The Company holds over 235,000 acres of precious-base metal properties in British Columbia; more than 205,000 acres of properties which host diamondiferous kimberlites in the Buffalo Head Hills region of Alberta; and metallic and industrial mineral permits for potash totaling more than 250,000 acres along the Alberta-Saskatchewan border.
On behalf of the Board,
GRIZZLY DISCOVERIES INC.
Brian Testo
CEO, President
Tel: (780) 693-2242
For further information, please visit our website at www.grizzlydiscoveries.com or contact:
Nancy Massicotte, Investor Relations
IR PRO COMMUNICATIONS INC.
Tel: 604-507-3377
Toll Free: 1-866-503-3377
Email: ir@grizzlydiscoveries.com
www.irprocommunications.com
or
Ian Lambert
COO, Grizzly Discoveries Inc.
Tel: 416-840-9843
Email: ilambert@grizzlydiscoveries.com
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Caution concerning forward-looking information
This press release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This information and statements address future activities, events, plans, developments and projections. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, constitute forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Such forward-looking information and statements are frequently identified by words such as "may," "will," "should," "anticipate," "plan," "expect," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and similar terminology, and reflect assumptions, estimates, opinions and analysis made by management of Grizzly in light of its experience, current conditions, expectations of future developments and other factors which it believes to be reasonable and relevant. Forward-looking information and statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause Grizzly's actual results, performance and achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information and statements and accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed thereon.
Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to vary include but are not limited to the availability of financing; fluctuations in commodity prices; changes to and compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including environmental laws and obtaining requisite permits; political, economic and other risks; as well as other risks and uncertainties which are more fully described in our annual and quarterly Management's Discussion and Analysis and in other filings made by us with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and available at www.sedar.com. Grizzly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements except as may be required by law.
MONCTON, NB -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Bulletproof's Quality Assurance (QA) and Testing Division has signed a Master Services Agreement (MSA) with Intralot USA. This deal will see Bulletproof's Moncton-based Software Quality Assurance & Testing division provide QA & Testing services to Intralot USA's lottery clients.
Bulletproof has a strong, world-wide portfolio of lottery and gaming-based testing clients. The addition of Intralot USA as an anchor client solidifies Bulletproof's market presence, especially in United States-based lottery operations.
Intralot USA Chief Operating Officer Christos Tzoumaras said, "We are happy to see this agreement signed and are eager to move forward. We were looking for a partner like Bulletproof to provide high caliber resources, not only in testing but in lottery domain knowledge, and a best-in-class testing program to increase the quality of our products and services to our clients. This partnership will drive new and repeat business for us while realizing bottom-line results."
Bulletproof Director of QA & Testing Kelly Black said, "We are excited about this partnership with Intralot USA. Securing a deal with a leading gaming solutions supplier and operator, who is active in 57 regulated jurisdictions around the globe, opens many doors and opportunities for Bulletproof to grow and expand operations in Moncton, NB. The opportunity to work on best-in-class gaming systems and product solutions and services from Intralot USA will allow us to further build upon our technical capabilities. This growth will enhance Bulletproof's ability to offer premium testing services to the lottery market."
"Bulletproof is growing. This deal, among others, has resulted in the need for us to expand our Moncton office. This is a further validation for our recent expansion into the United States, and we are excited for what lies ahead," said Bulletproof Vice President of Quality Assurance and Professional Services Greg Doucette. "The Software Quality Assurance & Testing division is currently building a new test lab to house our growing test team and to house test lab equipment. The space is expected to be fully functional in April 2017 and will allow our QA & Test team to double in size and provide full-service, end-to-end testing for all of the team's clients."
To learn more about Bulletproof and the company's current product offerings, please visit www.bulletproofsi.com.
ABOUT BULLETPROOF: Bulletproof was founded in 2000, began operations in 2001 as a Security Consulting Firm, and quickly diversified into offering a wider menu of Information Technology (IT) services with a focus on Professional and Managed Services. Bulletproof's competitive advantage is its agility and responsiveness to its clients, proven track record, and security-centric approach to delivery. Bulletproof executives are approachable, accountable, and committed to client success. For more information, visit www.bulletproofsi.com.
For more information:
Ashley Abernethy
Bulletproof
506-452-8558 ext. 6038
Email: Email Contact
CALGARY, ALBERTA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- International Frontier Resources Corporation ("IFR" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: IFR)(OTCQB: IFRTF) reported today that it has closed its previously announced private placement (see news release dated January 31, 2017) ("Financing") to raise aggregate gross proceeds of CAD$5,059,085 effective March 3, 2017, which consisted of the sale of 18,068,160 common shares at a price of CAD$0.28 per common share.
The brokered portion of the private placement led by PI Financial Corp. consisted of 8,094,445 shares for gross proceeds of CAD$2,266,445. PI Financial Corp. was paid a commission of 6% on the brokered portion of the Financing.
Concurrently, the Company announced the closing of a non-brokered private placement that consisted of 9,973,715 shares for gross proceeds of CAD$2,792,640. The Company will pay finders fees in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange in the amount of CAD$11,760.00 in respect of the non-brokered portion of the placement.
All shares issued under the brokered placement and non-brokered placement are subject to restrictions on resale expiring July 4, 2017.
"We have received significant interest from institutional and high net worth investors as well as strong support from our shareholders," said Steve Hanson, IFR's President and CEO. "IFR is now fully funded to meet its 2017 work commitments at Tecolutla. We look forward to advancing the development on the block and putting Tecolutla into production with workovers and new wells planned to be drilled this year."
The proceeds from the Financing will be used to fund the Company's minimum work program and under its previously announced license contract for the Tecolutla Block in Mexico (see news release dated August 26, 2016) and to earn into the block. Funds will also be used to participate in the 2.3 bid round auction and for general working capital.
The Tecolutla Block was awarded to joint venture company Tonalli Energia as part of the first round and third call of Mexico's oil and natural gas "mature fields" bid round ("Round 1.3"), the first in almost 80 years. Each of the blocks offered in Round 1.3 attracted multiple bids. (see news release dated May 12, 2016.)
About International Frontier Resources
International Frontier Resources Corporation (IFR) is a Canadian publicly traded company with a demonstrated track record of advancing oil and gas projects. Through its Mexican subsidiary, Petro Frontera S.A.P.I de CV (Frontera) and strategic joint ventures, it is advancing the development of petroleum and natural gas assets in Mexico. The Company also has projects in Canada and the United States, including the Northwest Territories, Alberta and Montana.
The Company's shares are listed on the TSX Venture, trading under the symbol IFR and on the OTCQB under the symbol IFRTF. For additional information please visit www.internationalfrontier.com.
"Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility or accuracy of this release". The Company seeks Safe Harbor.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This news release includes certain statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" for the purposes of Canadian securities regulation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). All forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs and assumptions based on information available at the time the assumption was made. IFR has tried to identify such forward-looking statements by use of such words as "could", "should", "can", "anticipate", "expect", "believe", "will", "may", "intend", "projected", "sustain", "continues", "strategy", "potential", "projects", "grow", "take advantage", "estimate", "well-positioned" and similar expressions, but these words are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements.
These forward-looking 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. IFR believes the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date specified in the statements. By their nature, such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, which could cause actual results or other expectations to differ materially from those anticipated, expressed or implied by such statements, including those material risks and assumptions discussed in our most recently filed annual Management's Discussion & Analysis and Annual Information Form.
Therefore, IFR's actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking estimates and if such actual results, performance or achievements transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, there can be no certainty as to what benefits IFR will derive therefrom. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required pursuant to applicable securities laws. All subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, attributable to IFR or persons acting on the Company's behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements.
Contacts:
International Frontier Resources Corporation
Steve Hanson
President and CEO
(403) 618-7346
shanson@internationalfrontier.com
International Frontier Resources Corporation
Tony Kinnon
Chairman
(403) 607-6591
tkinnon@internationalfrontier.com
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Cadillac Ventures Inc. (TSX VENTURE: CDC)(OTC: CADIF) ("Cadillac" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a proposed investment of $900,000 in Cadillac through a non-brokered private placement. The company has negotiated an offer from several independent investors for a total of $600,000 to acquire 12,000,000 units at $0.05 each, with each unit consisting of one common share and one warrant exercisable at $0.07 to acquire one common share for a period of 24 months from closing. A second $300,000 closing is planned for the end of March 2017 for an additional 4,615,385 units at $0.065 per each, with each unit consisting of one common share and one warrant exercisable at $0.08 to acquire one common share for a period of 24 months from closing. A four month hold period will apply to the securities issued. The proceeds from the private placement will be used for general working capital.
Cadillac before the issuance of the units has 52,669,881 common shares issued and outstanding. There will not be any new shareholder of over 10% on the basis of either the share issuance or the exercise of the associated warrants. No current insiders will be participating in the offering. The Company has been advised that no shareholders will be exercising their right of first refusal agreement to maintain their percentage holdings.
A finder's fee will be paid on each closing in cash equal to 7% of the gross proceeds raised and a number of warrants equal to 8% of the units issued, with 960,000 warrants exercisable at $0.07 and 369,231 warrants exercisable at $0.08, each for one shares for 24 months.
Closing of the offering is subject to receipt of all required documentation and TSX Venture Exchange approval. The private placement is scheduled to close in two tranches by March 31, 2016. "Cadillac is very pleased to have arranged this additional private placement with a Chinese investment group. This additional investment reflects we believe an existing Chinese investment base in Cadillac and the impact of improving copper prices. China is possibly the world's largest consumer of copper," stated Mr. Brewster, President and CEO of Cadillac.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts:
Cadillac Ventures Inc.
Norman Brewster
President and Chief Executive Officer
416 203-7722
www.cadillacventures.com
MITCHELL, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- "The members of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Processors Association (OFVPA) look forward to the changes announced by Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Minister Jeff Leal today. Working with our grower partners, we believe there is an excellent opportunity for improvement that will benefit the whole value chain," said Steve Lamoure, President of OFVPA.
According to Leal, the government took action to protect the industry, "one that produces high quality food for the consumers of Ontario, contributes positively to our economy, provide good jobs for Ontarians and ultimately, is a decision that supports farmers, processors and consumers for the well-being of the sector and the province of Ontario."
"We look forward to working jointly with the OPVG, their appointed trustee, and our grower partners in putting together the details for this progressive move," Lamoure stated.
Don Epp, Executive Director of the OFVPA added, "Ontario growers produce some of the best product in the world. This is a great opportunity to increase employment, economic investment, and grower tonnage. Working together truly works."
Contacts:
Don Epp, Executive Director
Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Processors Association (OFVPA)
519-498-8105
donaldjepp@gmail.com
WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwired - March 03, 2017) - Aviation Week & Space Technology has announced the winners of the 60 th Annual Laureate Awards, honoring extraordinary achievements in the global aerospace arena. The winners of the 2017 Laureate Awards were honored last evening at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC.
The winners are:
SPACE: Blue Origin, for successful reuse of the New Shepard suborbital booster on a total of five flights, culminating in an inflight abort test on the final mission. Blue Origin owner Jeff Bezos accepted the award on behalf of the company. See here for video link to interview with Jeff Bezos.
CIVIL AVIATION: Bombardier, for entry into service of the C Series, the first clean-sheet narrowbody airliner to enter service in more than 20 years.
DEFENSE: DARPA, Naval Air Systems Command and Lockheed Martin, for development of the stealthy Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile to meet an urgent U.S. Navy operational need.
MRO: Lufthansa Technik, for pioneering innovations in MRO, including launch of the Condition Analytics platform combining condition monitoring and predictive analytics.
BUSINESS AVIATION: Wheels Up, the membership air transportation provider, for expanding access to business aviation to a broad range of business and leisure travelers.
TECHNOLOGY: BAE Systems and Gulfstream, for the first commercial active side-stick controller, to be certified in the G500 and G600 business jets.
INNOVATION: Jaiwon Shin, NASA Associate Administrator for Aeronautics, for leadership in developing a compelling strategy to guide U.S. civil aviation research.
HEROISM: The Kenn Borek Air crews that, in a nine-day rescue operation in the extreme cold and darkness of an Antarctic winter, evacuated two people from the South Pole for medical treatment.
THE PHILIP J. KLASS AWARD for Lifetime Achievement
Maj. Gen. Charles Frank Bolden, Jr., (USMC-Ret.), for his nearly 50 years of service as a Marine Corps aviator and test pilot, astronaut and NASA administrator.
John Tracy, for leadership in developing composite primary structures for commercial aircraft during his 35-year career at Boeing, culminating as chief technology officer.
"These winners were selected by our senior editors after a rigorous review of nominations from within the Aviation Week Network and across the global aerospace aviation, aerospace and defense industries," said Aviation Week & Space Technology Editor-in-Chief Joseph C. Anselmo. "They embody the spirit of exploration, innovation and vision that will inspire others to strive for broad-reaching progress."
During the event, four cadets and midshipmen from U.S. military academies were recognized as Tomorrow's Leaders, honoring young men and women who have chosen career paths in the armed forces. They are: Cadet Lieutenant Michael Cremins of Burr Ridge, Illinois who is studying mechanical engineering with a focus in aeronautical engineering at the U.S. Military Academy; 2/c Cadet David Creswell of San Diego, who plans to attend flight school for the Coast Guard, building on the aviation-related activities he has pursued at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy; Midshipman First Class Ryan Speir of LaGrange, Illinois, who studied Aeronautical Engineering at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; and Cadet Colonel Young Yuyang Wu, a senior at the U.S. Air Force Academy majoring in aeronautical engineering.
In addition to the Laureates Awards, Aviation Week & Space Technology hosted a luncheon yesterday honoring the "20 Twenties" in partnership with American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). This program recognizes the accomplishments and drive of 20 science, technology, engineering and math students in their 20s and currently enrolled in a master's degree or bachelor's degree program.
First held in 1957, the Laureate Awards annually recognize great achievements in aviation, aerospace and defense. The event is one of the aerospace industries premier events, drawing several hundred pioneers and through leaders from around the world to honor today's innovators, tomorrow's leaders and individuals who are crossing the finish line of storied careers. For a list of previous winners, click here. Aviation Week & Space Technology is the event's official publication. Media support is provided by Air Transport World and SpeedNews.
Complete coverage of the Laureate Awards is available on http://www.aviationweek.com and in the next issue of Aviation Week & Space Technology. For more information on all Aviation Week events, visit http://events.aviationweek.com. On Twitter, follow @AvWeekEvents, @AviationWeek, AWLAUR.
ABOUT AVIATION WEEK NETWORK
Aviation Week Network is the largest multimedia information and services provider for the global aviation, aerospace and defense industries that has a database of 1.2 million professionals around the world. Industry professionals rely on Aviation Week Network for analysis, marketing and intelligence. Customers include the world's leading manufacturers, suppliers, airlines, business aviation operators, militaries, governments and other organizations that serve this global market. The product portfolio includes Air Transport World, Aviation Week & Space Technology, AC-U-KWIK, Aircraft Blue Book, Airportdata.com, Air Charter Guide, AviationWeek.com, Aviation Week Intelligence Network, Business & Commercial Aviation, ShowNews, SpeedNews, Fleet and MRO forecasts, global maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) tradeshows and aerospace & defense conferences.
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Aviation Week Network is part of Informa, the international business intelligence, academic publishing, knowledge and events group. Informa serves commercial, professional and academic communities, helping them connect and learn, and creating and providing access to content and intelligence that helps people and businesses work smarter and make better decisions faster.
Informa has over 7,500 colleagues in more than 20 countries and a presence in all major geographies. It is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a member of the FTSE 100.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Elizabeth Kelley Grace
Elizabeth@thebuzzagency.net
561.702.7471 (m)
MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)
Canadians working for a Mississauga-based manufacturer of telecommunications products will develop faster, more secure ethernet switches and other network equipment as a result of a $750,000 investment from the Government of Canada.
This investment in iS5 Communications Inc. is expected to create up to 12 skilled jobs - nearly doubling its workforce and allowing the company to develop new products that can be sold globally.
FedDev Ontario's funding, through the Investing in Business Innovation initiative, was announced today by the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario and Member of Parliament for Mississauga-Malton.
iS5 Communications provides mission-critical industrial ethernet products to industries, such as the utilities, defence and transportation sectors. The company produces network equipment that is resistant to extreme temperatures, signal interference and cyber attacks. The resilience of these products allows information and data to be transmitted faster and more securely. iS5 Communications Inc. to be the first of its kind to release a unique cyber security platform and technology to operate reliably in temperatures ranging from -40C to +85C without being affected by frequency interference from other sources.
The Government's Innovation Agenda aims to make Canada a global centre for innovation - one that drives economic growth by creating better jobs, opportunities and living standards for all Canadians. This investment is an example of that vision in action.
Quotes
"Where innovation happens matters because that's where the best jobs are located. When companies such as iS5 Communications innovate, they create well-paying, middle-class jobs. And those jobs spin off into more good jobs in every community where innovation happens. That's how innovation leads to a better Canada."
-- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
"I am very appreciative of our federal government's support of Canadian technology companies, which is helping us to thrive and grow as a company. The repayable contribution received from FedDev Ontario will help iS5 Communications Inc. to commercialize our products, including our latest innovation, "Raptor," and optimize our supply chain to improve our competitiveness in the global market."
-- Clive Dias, President and Chief Executive Officer, iS5 Communications Inc.
Quick Facts
-- iS5 Communications Inc., founded in 2012, provides telecommunications solutions for the utility, industrial, transportation, defence and surveillance industries to markets all over the world. -- FedDev Ontario's repayable contribution of up to $750,000 will attract an addition $1.5 million from accredited members registered with the Canadian Venture Capital Association and the York Angel Investors. -- As a result of increased sales and the development of new products, the company will be increasing the number of Ontario based suppliers by 30 percent.
Associated Links
Investing in Business Innovation initiative iS5 Communications Inc.
Subscribe to our news updates and follow us on Twitter @FedDevOntario
Contacts:
Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
416-954-6652
fdo.mediarel-relmedias.fdo@canada.ca
Toll Free: 1-866-593-5505
www.FedDevOntario.gc.ca
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - President Donald Trump took to Twitter once again Friday to lash out at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., accusing the Democratic leader of hypocrisy. Trump tweeted an old picture of Schumer eating doughnuts with Russian President Vladimir Putin and suggested there should be an investigation of the Senator's ties to Russia. 'We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite!' Trump tweeted. The tweet from Trump comes as Schumer has called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign following revelations of meetings with the Russian ambassador to the U.S. during the presidential campaign. Schumer has also urged Acting Deputy Attorney General Dana Boente to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate ties between the Trump campaign and Russia. Responding to Trump's tweet, Schumer noted that his meeting with Putin took place in 2003 in full view of the press and the public. Schumer said he would happily talk about his contact with Putin and his associates and questioned whether Trump and his team would do the same. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
The global cotton market is expected to have a more promising future after consecutive annual declines in overall production. Among all the latest news in the global cotton market, the forecasted world production growth, China's stock plummet and Vietnam's soaring imports are some of this week's hottest cotton topics on BizVibe. BizVibe is the world's smartest B2B marketplace and allows users to connect with over seven million companies around the globe.
This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170303005781/en/
The global cotton industry is expected to bounce back in the near future. (Graphic: Business Wire)
World cotton production is expected to rise in 2017/18
After a significant decline, world cotton production is expected to pick up as the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) forecasts that world cotton output will rise by 2% to 23.4 million tonnes in the upcoming financial year 2017/18, mainly due to an increase in cotton planted area around the world.
When it comes to cotton prices, ICAC predicts that average cotton prices are likely to be around 77 cents a pound, due to the downward pressure ahead on cotton prices which should shrink the country's stocks to the lowest in six years.
Connect with nearly 20,000 cotton companies listed on BizVibe
China cotton stocks plummet as government sets to sell its reserves
A huge volume of cotton stocks in China is set to be sold via auctions from March 6th to the end of August 2017. The Chinese government is expected to offer about 30,000 tonnes of cotton a day for sale over the next several months. ICAC predicts that around 2.6 million tonnes of China's cotton stocks will be sold by the government this year.
China's total stocks, including those in the private sector, are estimated to down to around 9.3 million tonnes at the end of this financial year, representing about 53% of world cotton stocks. China's ending stock is likely to further drop by 19% to 7.5 million tonnes by the end of 2017/18, representing for 45% of world stocks.
Connect with nearly 1,300 textiles companies in China listed on BizVibe
Vietnam's soaring cotton imports reflect a growing textile sector
Due to the staggering growth of Vietnam's textile and apparel industry, the demand of raw cotton in Vietnam has had a significant growth over the last six consecutive years, driving the imports of cotton totalling 5 million bales in the 2016/17 financial year, of which over 40% are imported from the US.
Much of Vietnam's growth in cotton product exports has been driven by declines in cotton spinning in China. Today, Vietnam is home to over 100 spinning mills with an estimated capacity of over 900,000 tonnes of cotton-based and man-made yarns. Up to two thirds of Vietnam's cotton imports are spun in foreign-owned mills, with much of it exported to China.
Connect with nearly 35,000 textiles companies listed on BizVibe
BizVibe is home to 50,000+ apparel and textile companies across 200+ countries, covering all sectors. The BizVibe platform allows you to discover the highest quality leads and make meaningful connections in real time. Claim your company profile for free and let the business come to you.
About BizVibe
BizVibe is home to over seven million company profiles across 700+ industries. The single minded focus of BizVibe's platform is to make networking easier. Over the years, we've searched far and wide to figure out how businesses connect and enable trade. That first interaction is usually fraught with the uncertainty of finding a potential partner vs. a potential nightmare. With this in mind, we've designed a robust set of tools to help companies generate leads, shortlist prospects, network with businesses from around the world and trade seamlessly.
BizVibe is headquartered in Toronto, and has offices in London, Bangalore and Beijing. For more information on the BizVibe network, please contact us
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170303005781/en/
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BizVibe Media Marketing Executive
media@bizvibe.com
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VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Avrupa Minerals Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: AVU) (FRANKFURT: 8AM) (OTC PINK: AVPMF) announces that its partner on the Alvalade VMS copper/zinc joint venture project in the Iberian Pyrite Belt of southern Portugal is in default of the earn-in agreement. Avrupa expects the partner, Colt Resources Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: GTP) ("Colt"), will also be unable to meet required government exploration expenditure requirements on the project, and Avrupa can now either re-purchase the project or dilute Colt.
Avrupa has been working with Colt for the past 14 months to eliminate the issues, but has continued to experience numerous delays in managing the expenditures. Avrupa's largest shareholder invested funds into Colt to pay the Alvalade property license fees in the spring of 2016, as Colt was unable to make that payment. A final extension for payment to Avrupa of all required expenditures was granted to Colt in September 2016, with deadlines set at the end of 2016. These deadlines were not met.
More recently, Colt replaced their president due to internal issues outlined in their news release of January 31, 2017. To date, Colt has still not provided funds for payment of Avrupa's fees, for suppliers' invoices, care/maintenance costs for the project, and now for the 2017 property fees. Colt has not met the 2015 and 2016 annual work plans and expenditure requirements set by the DGEG, the Portuguese mining bureau. Colt has now missed two periods of required project exploration expenditures under the earn-in agreement. In addition, Colt has not made the payments required under their assignment agreement with the former partner, and is in default under that agreement also.
Avrupa is working to ensure that Colt's defaults in funding the work expenditure commitments will not cause Avrupa to lose its interest in the Alvalade license.
Avrupa will provide its shareholders with further updates as the situation progresses.
Avrupa Minerals Ltd. is a growth-oriented junior exploration and development company focused on discovery, using a prospect generator model, of valuable mineral deposits in politically stable and prospective regions of Europe, including Portugal, Kosovo, and Germany.
The Company currently holds nine exploration licenses in three European countries, including six in Portugal covering 3,821 km2, two in Kosovo covering 47 km2, and one in Germany covering 307 km2. Avrupa has three joint ventures, two in Portugal and one in Kosovo, including:
-- The Alvalade JV, with Colt Resources, covering one license in the Iberian Pyrite Belt of southern Portugal, for Zn/Cu-rich massive sulfide deposits. The partner is currently in default under the terms of the JV agreement, and Avrupa is working on a route to consolidation of the program; -- The Covas JV, with Blackheath Resources, covering one license in northern Portugal, for intrusion-related W deposits; and -- Avrupa's partner at the Slivovo Gold Project in Kosovo is fully funding the program, allowing Avrupa to dilute its ownership in the JV operating company Peshter Mining JSC. If AVU ownership goes below 10%, the interest in the project converts to a 2% NSR.
Avrupa is currently upgrading precious and base metal targets to JV-ready status in a variety of districts on their other licenses, with the idea of attracting potential partners to project-specific and/or regional exploration programs.
On behalf of the Board,
Paul W. Kuhn, President & Director
This news release was prepared by Company management, who take full responsibility for its content. Paul W. Kuhn, President and CEO of Avrupa Minerals, a Licensed Professional Geologist and a Registered Member of the Society of Mining Engineers, is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 of the Canadian Securities Administrators. He has reviewed the technical disclosure in this release. Mr. Kuhn, the QP, has not only reviewed, but prepared and supervised the preparation or approval of the scientific and technical content in the news release.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts:
Avrupa Minerals Ltd.
1-604-687-3520
www.avrupaminerals.com
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- All amounts in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated
Onex Corporation ("Onex") (TSX: ONEX) today announced it has completed the acquisition of Parkdean Resorts for GBP 1.35 billion. Parkdean Resorts is a leading operator of caravan holiday parks in the United Kingdom. Onex Partners IV and certain limited partners as co-investors made an equity investment of $627 million. Onex' share of the investment as a Limited Partner in the Fund and as a co-investor was $170 million.
About Onex
Onex is one of the oldest and most successful private equity firms. Through its Onex Partners and ONCAP private equity funds, Onex acquires and builds high-quality businesses in partnership with talented management teams. At Onex Credit, Onex manages and invests in leveraged loans, collateralized loan obligations and other credit securities. The Company has approximately $24 billion of assets under management, including $6 billion of Onex proprietary capital, in private equity and credit securities. With offices in Toronto, New York, New Jersey and London, Onex invests alongside its fund investors and is the largest limited partner in each of its private equity funds.
Onex' businesses have assets of $44 billion, generate annual revenues of $29 billion and employ approximately 161,000 people worldwide. Onex shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the stock symbol ONEX. For more information on Onex, visit its website at www.onex.com. The Company's security filings can also be accessed at www.sedar.com.
This news release may contain forward-looking statements that are based on management's current expectations and are subject to known and unknown uncertainties and risks, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by such forward-looking statements. Onex is under no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein should material facts change due to new information, future events or otherwise.
Contacts:
Onex Corporation
Laura Carrigan
Director, Investor Relations
416.362.7711
TORONTO, ONTARIO and ZUG, SWITZERLAND -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- (Unless otherwise provided herein, all dollar amounts in this announcement are expressed in U.S. dollars)
Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited ("Fairfax") (TSX: FFH)(TSX: FFH.U) and Allied World Assurance Company Holdings, AG ("Allied World") (NYSE: AWH) today announced that they have agreed to extend to March 10, 2017 the deadline by which Fairfax has the option to increase the cash consideration, and correspondingly reduce the "Fixed Value Stock Consideration" under the terms of the previously announced definitive merger agreement entered into by Fairfax and Allied World on December 18, 2016, pursuant to which Fairfax agreed to make an exchange offer to acquire all of Allied World's outstanding ordinary shares.
In connection with the transaction, Allied World will hold a Special Shareholder Meeting on Wednesday, March 22, 2017 where holders of ordinary shares will be asked to consider and vote on: (i) a proposal to amend Articles 8 and 14 of Allied World's Articles of Association to remove the limitation on the voting rights of a holder of 10% or more of its ordinary shares; and (ii) a proposal for Allied World to pay, as soon as possible after the closing of the exchange offer, a special dividend of $5.00 per ordinary share to holders of outstanding ordinary shares as of immediately prior to the closing of the exchange offer and to forgo the $0.26 March 2017 quarterly dividend.
About Fairfax
Fairfax is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management.
About Allied World
Allied World, through its subsidiaries and brand known as Allied World, is a global provider of innovative property, casualty and specialty insurance and reinsurance solutions. Allied World offers superior client service through a global network of offices and branches. All of Allied World's rated insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries are rated A by A.M. Best Company, A by Standard & Poor's, and A2 by Moody's, and our Lloyd's Syndicate 2232 is rated A+ by Standard & Poor's and AA- by Fitch.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND WHERE TO FIND IT
This communication is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or form part of an offer to sell or exchange or the solicitation of an offer to buy, exchange or subscribe to any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, sale or exchange would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This communication is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. No offering of securities shall be made in the United States except pursuant to registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, or an exemption therefrom.
In connection with the exchange offer for all of the outstanding registered ordinary shares of Allied World, Fairfax has filed a registration statement on Form F-4, which includes a preliminary prospectus, and expects to file a Tender Offer statement on Schedule TO (the "Schedule TO"), and may file amendments thereto, and soon thereafter Allied World will file a Solicitation / Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 with respect to the exchange offer and may file amendments thereto. The exchange offer has not yet commenced. The exchange offer will be made exclusively by means of, and subject to, the terms and conditions set out in, an offer document containing and setting out the terms and conditions of the offer and a letter of transmittal to be delivered to Allied World, filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and mailed to Allied World shareholders. The exchange offer will be made by Fairfax or an affiliate of Fairfax and not by any other person.
The release, publication or distribution of this communication in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law and therefore persons in such jurisdictions into which this communication is released, published or distributed should inform themselves about and observe such restrictions.
SHAREHOLDERS OF ALLIED WORLD ARE URGED TO READ ANY DOCUMENTS REGARDING THE EXCHANGE OFFER CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE (INCLUDING THE EXHIBITS THERETO) AS THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXCHANGE OFFER.
The registration statement, the Schedule TO and other related documents in relation to the exchange offer, as well as Fairfax's other public filings with the SEC, may be obtained without charge at the SEC's website, www.sec.gov, after they have been filed. Any materials filed with the SEC may also be obtained without charge at Fairfax's website, www.fairfax.ca. This material is not a substitute for the registration statement, the Schedule TO and other related documents in relation to the exchange offer that will be filed with the SEC or sent to shareholders in connection with the proposed transactions.
Any proxy statement and any other relevant documents filed by Allied World with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents and Allied World's other public filings with the SEC, may be obtained without charge at the SEC's website, www.sec.gov, after they have been filed. Any materials filed with the SEC may also be obtained without charge at Allied World's website, www.awac.com.
This communication does not constitute an offer or a solicitation in any jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation is unlawful. An offer will not be made in, nor will deposits be accepted in, any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction. However, Fairfax may, in its sole discretion, take such action as it may deem necessary to extend an offer in any such jurisdiction.
Participants in the Solicitation
Fairfax and Allied World and their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in any solicitation of proxies from Allied World's and, if necessary, Fairfax's shareholders in favour of the proposed acquisition. Information about Allied World's directors and executive officers is available in Allied World's proxy statement dated March 10, 2016 for its 2016 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. Information about Fairfax's directors and executive officers is available in Fairfax's management proxy circular dated March 11, 2016 for its 2016 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. Other information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, are contained in the definitive proxy statement, the prospectus and other relevant materials filed with the SEC regarding the acquisition. Investors should read the definitive proxy statement and the prospectus carefully before making any voting or investment decisions.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained herein may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws and are made pursuant to the "safe harbour" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Fairfax, Allied World or the combined company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of management of Fairfax and Allied World and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic and market conditions, industry conditions, corporate approvals, regulatory approvals, operational factors and other factors. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. All forward-looking statements attributable to Fairfax and Allied World, or persons acting on their behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements set forth in this paragraph. Undue reliance should not be placed on such statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Such factors include, but are not limited to the risks and uncertainties described in: (i) Fairfax's most recently issued Annual Report which is available at www.fairfax.ca and in its Supplemental and Base Shelf Prospectus (under "Risk Factors") filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com; and (ii) Allied World's most recently issued Annual Report filed on Form 10-K, which is available on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Each of Fairfax and Allied World disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements and undertakes no obligation to release publicly the results of any future revisions to the forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
There can be no assurance that the offer and/or the merger will occur or that the anticipated benefits of the offer and merger will be realized. The completion of the offer and the merger is subject to various approvals, including competition, antitrust and insurance regulatory approvals.
Contacts:
Fairfax
Paul Rivett, President
John Varnell, Vice President, Corporate Development
(416) 367-4941
Allied World
Media: Faye Cook
Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications
(441) 278-5406
Allied World
Investors: Giuseppe Montefinese
Manager, Strategy & Investor Relations
(646) 794-0690
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/03/17 -- Revelo Resources Corp. ("Revelo" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: RVL) announces that its joint venture partner, Minera Newmont (Chile) Ltda. ("Newmont"), a subsidiary of Newmont Mining Corporation (NYSE: NEM), has elected to withdraw from the Montezuma copper project ("Montezuma") in northern Chile and return its earned interest to Revelo in exchange for a perpetual 1% NSR Royalty interest in the project. As a result of signing definitive documentation to this effect, Revelo, consequently, owns 100% of the Montezuma project.
Tim Beale, President and CEO of Revelo, commented: "We are grateful to Newmont for their efforts exploring the Montezuma project. Revelo will focus its efforts over the next calendar quarter to fully understand and reinterpret the extensive database of information available for Montezuma, including re-logging drill core and drill chips, in order to redefine targets for further work. We remain convinced that Montezuma has a series of exciting targets located in the heart of one of the world's principal porphyry copper districts."
For further details of the Montezuma Project please refer to the Montezuma Project page on Revelo's website (http://www.reveloresources.com/projects/montezuma).
Dr. Demetrius Pohl, Ph.D., Certified Professional Geoscientist (CPG), an independent consultant, is the Company's Qualified Person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosures for Mineral Projects of the Canadian Securities Administrators, and has approved the written disclosure of the technical information contained in this news release.
ABOUT REVELO
Revelo has consolidated an outstanding portfolio of 25 projects prospective for copper, gold and silver located along proven mineral belts in one of the world's top mining jurisdictions - Chile. Revelo's total exposure to mineral tenements in northern Chile is around 300,000 hectares, of which about 60,000 hectares (2 projects) are subject to 3rd party exploration expenditures.
Revelo is a Canadian company and is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX VENTURE: RVL). For more information, please visit Revelo's website at www.reveloresources.com.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
Timothy J. Beale, President & CEO
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT
This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events or developments that Revelo expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential", "indicate" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although Revelo believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements.
Contacts:
INVESTOR CONTACT: Revelo Resources Corp.
Chiara Orrigoni
Investor Relations Manager
+1 604 687-5544
info@reveloresources.com
www.reveloresources.com
CLEARWATER, Florida, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --Enigma Software Group USA, LLC ("ESG") announced that it reached a settlement in the lawsuit it filed last year against Bleeping Computer LLC. The case will now be dismissed. ESG filed suit against Bleeping Computer in federal court in New York on January 5, 2016. The complaint alleged false advertising, defamation, and related claims.
The terms of the settlement are confidential, but Bleeping Computer explained in its press release on the settlement that it has now removed the posts written by its staff member that gave rise to ESG's lawsuit. All of Bleeping Computer's counterclaims in the lawsuit will be dismissed by the court with prejudice, along with ESG's dismissal of the case.
Bleeping Computer had moved to dismiss ESG's lawsuit, alleging that its statements were protected by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. The court rejected that motion in a decision handed down last summer.
Ryan Gerding, a spokesman for ESG, said of the development, "ESG is pleased to put this matter behind us and to get back to making the best anti-malware products on the market. It is unfortunate when litigation becomes necessary, but ESG is grateful to the court for its assistance."
About Enigma Software Group USA, LLC
Enigma Software Group USA, LLC is a privately held international systems integrator and developer of PC security software, with offices in the United States and the European Union. The company's specialties are the development of PC security software, online security analysis, adaptive threat assessment, and detection of PC security threats, as well as malware custom fixes for its millions of subscribers worldwide. ESG is best known forSpyHunter, its anti-malware software product and service. To learn more about ESG, visit www.enigmasoftware.com.
Connect with ESG on Twitter|Facebook|Google+ | LinkedIn|YouTube
Logo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/452052/Enigma_Software_Logo.jpg
Matrix Analytics, a Denver, CO-based provider of a registry software system for hospitals to track pulmonary nodule patients, closes a seed funding round with Mark Cuban.
The amount of the deal was not disclosed.
The capital will be used to increase distribution of LungDirect.
Led by Christine Spraker, President, and Dr. Aki Alzubaidi, Founder and CMO, Matrix Analytics provides LungDirect, an automatic registry software system enabling hospitals to track lung cancer screening patients and other at-risk pulmonary nodule patients from detection through diagnosis.
LungDirect registers incidental pulmonary nodules and screening patients to a dashboard and makes a user aware of these patients so they can be followed and treated according to standard clinical care guidelines.
FinSMEs
03/03/2017
Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (OPC) (TYO: 4578), a global healthcare company headquartered in Japan, is to buy Neurovance, a Cambridge, Mass.-based clinical stage neuroscience-focused company that develops treatments for ADHD, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Under the terms of the deal, expected to close in the second quarter of 2017, subject to customary closing conditions, OPC will pay Neurovance $100m up front in cash, plus up to $150m in additional payments contingent on achievement of development and regulatory approval milestones, plus additional future payments contingent on achievement of sales milestones.
Led by Jeff Bailey, Chairman and CEO, and Brian Goff, COO, Neurovance discovered and developed centanafadine (CTN), a triple reuptake inhibitor that represents a novel approach to help adults and children with ADHD.
The company is funded in a venture capital investment by Novartis Venture Fund, Venture Investors, Tekla Capital Management, GBS Venture Partners, State of Wisconsin Investment Board (SWIB) and Timothy J. Barberich.
FinSMEs
03/03/2017
Sydney/Singapore: The man who last year made global headlines by claiming to be Satoshi Nakamoto, the creator of bitcoin, is working with a fugitive online gambling entrepreneur to file scores of patents relating to the digital currency and its underlying technology, blockchain.
Craig Wright, the Australian computer scientist who made the Satoshi claim, has the backing of Calvin Ayre, a wealthy Canadian entrepreneur, according to people close to Wright and documents reviewed by Reuters. Ayre has been indicted in the United States on charges of running online gambling operations that are illegal in many US states an accusation he rejects.
Wrights expertise combined with Ayres support make a potentially formidable force in shaping the future of bitcoin and blockchain, the ledger technology that underlies digital currencies. Wright and his associates have lodged more than 70 patent applications in Britain and have plans to file many more, according to documents and emails reviewed by Reuters and sources with knowledge of Wrights business. The patents range from the storage of medical documents to WiFi security, and reflect Wright's deep knowledge of how bitcoin and blockchain work.
Their total compares with 63 blockchain-related patents filed globally last year and 27 so far this year by multinationals from credit card companies to chipmakers, according to Thomson Innovation.
Neither Wright nor Ayre would comment for this story on their business relationship, details of which are revealed here for the first time, or their goals. But their interest in bitcoin and blockchain highlights two key trends.
First, an increasing number of entrepreneurs believe blockchain, which can circumvent the need for big financial intermediaries, will challenge traditional payment systems. Various banks are investing large sums to explore how blockchain could revolutionise payment systems and cut costs. Bitcoin involves sending payments directly, securely and potentially anonymously between two people's digital wallets, whereas all mainstream transactions, including those using intermediaries like Paypal and credit card lenders, run through banks and usually require named accounts and verification.
Second, blockchain has the potential to defy authorities trying to enforce borders and national regulations and it already does so in areas such as online gambling.
In internet chatrooms some online gamblers say that using bitcoin enables them to disguise their identity and transactions.
The confidentiality conveyed by the currency is one source of its popularity. Bitcoin hit a record high this week, partly because of speculation that the first bitcoin exchange-traded fund is set to receive US regulatory approval. After a sharp rise this year, the cryptocurrency reached more than $1,200 per bitcoin.
Ayre said last year that he saw a growing convergence of bitcoin and online gambling, according to the website CalvinAyre.com. Documents reviewed by Reuters show Wrights links to online gambling go back decades and that bitcoin grew out of code originally developed with gambling in mind. Early bitcoin code, seen by Reuters and analysed by a computer coding consultant with no ties to Wright or any blockchain-related project, contains unimplemented functions related to poker.
Wrights vision for bitcoin, though, goes much further than gambling, according to his research papers and interview transcripts. It remains unclear whether he is Satoshi Nakamoto or not, and even whether Satoshi is one person or a group of people. But some of the documents, including two folders of computer code for early versions of bitcoin, support Wrights claims that he was closely involved in the development of the cryptocurrency before it became public in 2009.
Whatever Wright's original role, he has suggested bitcoin could have widespread applications. In a paper from November 2015, also reviewed by Reuters, he wrote: The bitcoin blockchain can be scaled up to replace all existing payment system networks to become the world's single global economic infrastructure.
The paper is unpublished, but it gives an insight into the global scope of his plans for the technology. While it's far from clear the two will be successful in their patent applications, bitcoin and patent experts say Wright's project represents the single largest filing of bitcoin-related intellectual property they've seen. "It's certainly bullish," said Justin Hill, a patents expert with law firm Olswang. "With the ambition comes the risk."
The pat by World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva for the positive impact of demonetisation is perhaps the biggest international endorsement that Narendra Modi could have hoped for in recent times. Moreover, her suggestion that other countries should study this move literally makes it a global best practice.
While many economists predicted India would slow down drastically because of demonetisation, Georgieva has said that it will grow at seven percent, a figure close to what Modi government claims.
Georgievas praise is clearly a shot in the arm for Modi and his government; but what it also highlights in the process is the absolute undependability of economists, or rather the macroeconomists who decide our vital economic policies.
Barely a month ago, the World Banks twin, the IMF, had a totally opposite view to that of Georgieva: that demonetisation had hit Indian growth hard and that it would slow down to 6.6 percent from its earlier projection of 7.6 percent. The IMF claimed that it would decelerate the growth even during the next fiscal year by about 0.4 percentage point.
Its not just the IMF, but also many other international economists who had similar opinions. Nobel laureate Amartya Sen was rather harsh when he said that demonetisation was a gigantic mistake, a despotic decision, and Modis Napoleon moment. Former prime minister and an ex-IMF economist Manmohan Singh called it a mammoth tragedy and predicted that the economy would slow down by at least two percentage points, twice as much as the IMF had predicted. Another World Bank veteran, Kaushik Basu said it would fail. The Marxist government in Kerala said that demonetisation affected 56 percent of its economy.
On the other hand, there were a host of experts such as Jagdish Bhagwati, Arvind Panagariya, Arvind Virmani and Bibek Debroy, who studied and practised the same discipline of economics in similar national and international organisations, with a diametrically opposite view. According to them, it was a bold step and would only have a positive impact. They even questioned the facts and assumptions that the other camp relied on. The star professor-economist from Harvard, Gita Gopinath appeared unclear how it would pan out.
Even while factoring in the competing schools of thought, the politics, the changing variables and the inherent unpredictability of the subject, this division is disconcerting because ultimately our economic policies both national and provincial are formulated by economists. If the famed practitioners of a discipline that claims a fair amount of scientific rigour are way off the mark notwithstanding what they predict do we even need them to play with our policies, or rather our lives?
From the divided opinions, predictions and emerging data, all of their scientific premises look speculative - a bizarre equal probability game deciding the most vital aspect of our public policy. What Cambridge economist and popular author Ha-Joon Chang said a few years ago that economics, as it has been practised in the last three decades, has been positively harmful for most people" appears prophetic.
Its time that we took the modelling, calculations, predictions and opinions of the economists with a pinch of salt. Probably this is why the great American mathematician Norbert Wiener called economics a one or two digit science. According to him, one shouldnt take the mathematical formulae they use seriously. Just as primitive peoples adopt the Western modes of denationalised clothing and of parliamentarism out of a vague feeling that these magic rites and vestments will at once put them abreast of modern culture and technique, so the economists have developed the habit of dressing up their rather imprecise ideas in the language of the infinitesimal calculus.
What bothers one is the absolute authority with which one makes assertions, that too involving precise numbers. Stating the limitations upfront is an ethical prerequisite for any research, and statistical and methodological artifacts are unavoidable features of scientific studies; but none of these economists care even to nuance their predictions. Its strange that they jump into conclusions when the fact of the matter is that their science is extremely unreliable for many reasons such as the inability in undertaking controlled studies, bad data, excessive faith on a certain political philosophy and unpredictable behaviour of people. Thats why post-demonetisation, we get Manmohan Singh speculating a two percentage point reduction in growth and the World Bank predicting a positive impact.
And this chasm will make politicians smirk, exactly the way Modi did early this week when he made fun of intellectuals from Harvard and Oxford buoyed by the strong growth figures that maintained India as the worlds fastest growing economy. This fuzziness helps people like him manipulate our biases.
The real calamity in the process is the truth. In the end, who was right? The doomsayers or the Pollyanna? Or the uninformed vassals? Will we ever know? Are these growth figures for real and the science behind them sound? If its indeed a game of chances, as it turns out to be now, should we really trust these hallowed economists?
As Ha-Joon Chang wrote in his best seller "23 Things They Dont Tell You About Capitalism", Good economists are not required to run good economic policies. The economic bureaucrats that have been most successful are usually not economists. During their miracle years, economic policies in Japan and (to a lesser extent) Korea were run by lawyers. In Taiwan and China, economic policies have been run by engineersIn the old industrial countries such as Germany and France too, its the quality of engineers and designers, not economists.
New Delhi: The GST levy may go up to 40 percent after the GST Council proposed raising the peak rate in the Bill to 20 percent, from the current 14 percent, to obviate the need for approaching Parliament for any change in rates in future.
The model Goods and Services Tax Bill will replace the clause which states the tax rate "not exceeding 14 percent, with "not exceeding 20 percent" when it comes up for debate in Parliament during the second phase of Budget session beginning next week.
The change in the peak rate will not alter the 4-slab rate structure of 5, 12, 18 and 28 percent agreed upon last year for the moment, but is only a provision being built into the model law to take care of contingencies in future, two officials in the know told PTI.
The revised draft of model GST law, which was made public in November 2016, provides for a maximum rate of tax under the new regime at 14 percent (14 percent central GST and an equal state GST, taking the total to 28 percent).
"There shall be levied a tax called the central/state goods and services tax (CGST/SGST) on all intra-state supplies of goods and/or services... at such rates as may be notified by the central/state government... but not exceeding 14 percent on the recommendation of the Council and collected in such manner as may be prescribed," the draft law states.
Officials said this will now be changed to say the rate will not exceed "20 percent".
The GST Council, headed by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and comprising representatives of all states, has agreed to keep the upper band of the rate in the law at 20 percent.
"For the moment, we will not tinker with the rate structure of 5, 12, 18 and 28 percent. The GST Council has decided to keep the upper cap higher at 20 per cent so that in future in case of need to hike tax rate, there is no need to approach Parliament for a nod and the GST Council can raise it," the officials said.
This means the central GST and state GST can be up to 20 percent each, leaving the scope for a maximum levy at 40 percent.
"The 4-tier rate structure that has been decided will hold for now. By keeping the upper cap at 20 percent, we are just keeping an enabling provision which the Council can exercise at a later date after deliberation," the officials added.
Mirroring the model GST law, the CGST, the SGST and the UTGST law will be firmed up by the Centre, states and Union Territories, respectively.
The Centre plans to introduce in Parliament the Central GST (CGST) Bill in the forthcoming session beginning March 9.
After it is ratified, the states will introduce the State GST (SGST) Bill in their respective legislative Assemblies.
The central and state officials will soon start the exercise to determine which goods and services should fall in which tax bracket and the same will be taken to the Council for approval soon.
Together with this, they will also decide the goods and services that would attract a cess on top of the peak rate to create a corpus that can be used to compensate states for any loss of revenue from implementation of GST in the first five years.
The government is looking at GST rollout from July 1.
New Delhi: Chinese e-commerce major Alibaba, along with investment firm SAIF Partners, will pump in US $200 million in Paytm's online marketplace unit.
Alibaba Singapore E-Commerce Pvt Ltd will invest US $177 million in Paytm E-Commerce Pvt Ltd, the demerged unit of digital payments company, One97 Communications that operates under Paytm brand. The remaining amount will come from SAIF, an early investor in One97, according to a filing with the Registrar of Companies.
Post the investment, Alibaba Singapore E-Commerce will have a shareholding of 36.31 percent, while SAIF Partners India will own 4.66 percent in Paytm e-Commerce.
Paytm declined to comment on the matter.
This deal is expected to pave the way for the much-awaited entry of Alibaba into India, where the Chinese firm will go head-to-head with American online retail giant Amazon and homegrown player Flipkart.
Alibaba also has a stake in Indian online marketplace Snapdeal.
Earlier this week, Paytm launched a separate smartphone app and website for its online marketplace called Paytm Mall and is aggressively hiring people for expanding the operations.
One97 Communications has three units -- Paytm E-Commerce, Paytm Payments Bank (payments bank and mobile wallet service) and Paytm Mobile Solutions.
Tata Sons will split a dispute settlement payment of $1.18 billion owed to NTT DoCoMo over the Japanese firm's exit from a telecoms joint venture, leaving it with about two-thirds of the amount to invest in India, a source said.
Both companies are likely to approach India's central bank within 15 days with a plan that will offer to split the payment into two parts, the source, who has direct knowledge of the matter, said.
While Tata Sons will pay the fair value of DoCoMo's 26 percent stake outside India, or roughly $390 million according to Reuters calculations, DoCoMo would need to invest the balance of $790 million in India, either for expansion or other joint ventures, the source added.
It was not immediately clear how DoCoMo would use the money if the plan were formalised.
"DoCoMo at least gets control of the money and can use it for investment in India," said the source, who requested anonymity, as the decision is not final.
Another possible alternative could be that DoCoMo receives the entire payment in India and retains it for future investment instead of repatriating it, a second source close to Tata Sons said.
Any deal is subject to the Reserve Bank of India's approval.
Tata Sons declined to comment. DoCoMo did not immediately reply to an email seeking comment.
Tata Teleservices, a unit of salt-to-software conglomerate Tata Sons, and DoCoMo formed a telecoms partnership in 2009. In the event of an exit, that deal guaranteed DoCoMo the higher of either half its original investment, or its fair value.
When DoCoMo decided to get out in 2014, Tata Sons was unable to find a buyer for the Japanese firm's stake and offered to buy the stake itself, for half DoCoMo's investment of $2.2 billion.
India's central bank blocked Tata Sons' offer, saying a rule change the previous year prevented foreign investors from selling stakes in Indian firms at a pre-determined price.
DoCoMo took the case to a London court and won the arbitration. Tata Sons was asked to pay a penalty of $1.18 billion, which it has deposited with the Delhi High Court in the Indian capital, where the case is being heard.
On Tuesday, Tata Sons and DoCoMo agreed to settle out of court, after a new chairman took charge at the Indian conglomerate. DoCoMo has also agreed to end all legal proceedings against Tata Sons in Britain and the United States for a period of time.
Editor's note: Friday, 3 March 2017, could be the last day in office for Film and Television Institute of India chairman Gajendra Chauhan. His two-year stint was marked by a 139-day strike by students, who protested against what they felt was a politically-motivated appointment of a candidate who was ill-qualified to head the premier institute. As Chauhan's two-year term comes to an end at this time it is unclear if he will be granted an extension an FTII student looks back over what his tenure has meant.
The students strike began on 11 June 2015. The FTII I know has a very clear demarcation: Before Strike, and After Strike. And in the After Strike era, things have changed drastically.
When Mr Gajendra Chauhan visited the campus on 7 January 2016, we were protesting outside the gates. Students were arrested by the city police; we spent the whole day at the police station and some of us were beaten up. Now when we think about speaking up against something thats wrong, it is those horrific images that come back to us. Students who are currently on campus tell us that they dont feel free; in that sort of environment, I dont think anybody can work.
Our strike at FTII lasted for 139 days, and in many ways, we did achieve our objective which was to question what was happening. It was never about Hum iss bande ko hata kar hi rahenge! If something is wrong, we must ask questions. If you dont ask questions, you arent being a good citizen. And this is something we intend to continue doing in the future as well, with the films w emake and the stories we tell.
When we launched our strike in June 2015, there was a feeling that if we don't speak now, we'll never be allowed to speak again. It was an entirely new experience for us that if you say something, you're put in this zone, you're labeled as belonging to a particular ideology. Even you yourself don't know that you believe in this ideology, you're branded: Leftist or Naxalite or whatever It was a very disturbing experience. At the same time, it was also very liberating. Liberating, because that was when we found out that whenever we raise our voices, there will be forces that try to suppress us but there is no reason to fear those forces. We still need to ask questions, we still need to do the right thing.
Gajendra Chauhan's controversial 19-month tenure as FTII Chairman ends on 3 March
Were the fears we had when we decided to strike unfounded? No, I think those fears came true. (A little after Mr Chauhan took over) students requested permission to organise a film festival on gender equality. The director didnt give us approval. Instead, a festival on the Mahabharat was screened (Mr Chauhan has incidentally played Yudhishtir in the TV version of the epic). I have nothing against the Mahabharat, but I think looking at the current situation gender equality is more a topic on which people need to be sensitised.
Those of us who participated in the strike were targeted by the administration. The court case filed against 35 of us is still pending. Theres the abuse we faced when someone calls you an anti-national or a Naxalite, it doesnt feel very good. Of course, thats very common nowadays. But there were more practical issues as well students who were part of the strike were denied scholarships; they were denied opportunities for exchange programmes. And some faculty members who had supported the students found that their contracts were not renewed.
The independence and artistic liberty we once enjoyed at FTII is no longer there. For instance, the government council is proposing a new rule which seeks to do away with students involvement in the academic council. This is ridiculous. Since the beginning of FTII, students have had a major part to play in the academic council, in selecting, shaping and implementing the syllabus. It's basically the collaboration between students and experts that had made FTII so much better than other places.
Also, if your liberty is taken away, what is the point of a new syllabus or digital equipment? The first responsibility of any art form is that it must represent the truth of our society. If students are not free to do that, then I don't think the new syllabus can help. No matter how good the infrastructure is, when your ideas are not liberated, I don't think any good can come out of it.
If Mr Chauhan considers introducing the new syllabus and digital campus as his achievement, he can do so. But if anyone thinks that just focusing on digitisation will help the artistic work, they are being naive. Because the work of an artist is not based on equipment. Of course equipment provides you better results, but if the thoughts, ideas, ability of free thinking isnt there, how can we expect better quality of work to come out of FTII?
After the FTII protest, many other schools and colleges have raised their voices and questioned the government. And that is very much needed. Many people have asked us, What did your strike achieve? Aap logon ne hunger strike bhi kar liya, par kya mila? Gajendra Chauhan wahin ka wahin hai. Ive stopped explaining to them that the strike was never against one person, it was about a much larger issue. If we look at what is happening in the country right now from Delhi to Hyderabad its as though you cannot say a single word without courting controversy. It's not like everybody has a political agenda. We didn't. We didn't have any political affiliation at the time of our strike, or now. We were only fighting for what we believed was right.
Tracking FTII protests: From Gajendra Chauhan's appointment to midnight arrests
People may think that the debate we see going on around us now has nothing to do with FTII. But we feel that it is aligned with what we were saying at the time. It was about expressing your emotions, ideas, to make the films you want to make. Our intention was not to disturb anyone it was to create a cultural dialogue in which all ideologies can co-exist. Where people with different ideologies can talk to each other, differentiate from each other, without hating each other.
In my last month at FTII, we were celebrating the one-year anniversary of our strike. And we decided then that we would support every student who raises his or her voice in the country. We would stand with them in solidarity.
We do have a lot of expectations from whoever is appointed the next chairperson. We hope that whoever comes next has the right credentials, that they respect the institute and understand artistic sensibilities. There are lots of pending issues too that need resolving, pertaining to the staff, the cases against students and revising those new rules and norms that arent in the students best interests. Let's see what happens
With the case against us still pending, I dont know what will happen next. I'm personally proud of my participation in the strike. I believe it is the responsibility of every citizen to speak up when they feel something is wrong. If you stay quiet, if you don't speak up, then you'll see your freedoms being infringed. If not today, then tomorrow it will affect you. Even if you feel now, this is not my fight, this is not my argument, it is not affecting me, why should I speak about it? This was something we encountered as well, when we were trying to drum up support from students of other institutions for our strike: It's not our fight, it's just one institution, it's your chairman, why should we raise our voices? But now I'm very sure that if you look around, you will feel that it wasn't about one person, it was about a chain of events. Now when their freedoms are also being threatened, these other students also realise how important it is to raise your voice when something bad is happening.
The writer, an FTII student, was at the forefront of the 139-day strike that rocked the campus in 2015
Why is this film 170 minutes long?
Why is this factory worker father in blue overalls wearing so much make up?
Perhaps if father and mother Parker cut down on their make up expenses they would not have to downgrade their daughter Alias school and could afford her school fees, right?
Why do mama and papa Parker treat their oldest child and only daughter like a slave?
Which time period is this film set in?
What is the location? It is Udaipur? Is it Austria? Is Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai set in a fictional place located on the border between the two, where it is hot at one moment and suddenly snowing in another?
Why does princely Vikram Pratap Singhs (Ashutosh Rana) den look like (what I imagine) Totos Garage bar and pub (familiar to Mumbai residents) looks like with all lights on?
These were some questions that came to my mind in the first 40 minutes of watching director Keshav Panneriys film Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai. By the 49th minute, I had abandoned my quest for any real moments between the characters and for a semblance of logic in Amreetaa Roys script.
Admittedly I did question why Supriya Pathak played a Rajasthani royal handmaiden Laxmi with a Gujarati accent. But that was my last question. Thereafter I sank low into my seat and, like persecuted girl child Alia, began to accept my fate.
Suffice to say the action in Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai unfolds in some year and some place where there is a floating palace in a lake and a king who epitomises every chauvinistic male stereotype.
He has his own evil type background music following him as he covets college student Alia (Manjari Fadnnis) and virtually buys her hand in marriage from spineless father Patrick Parker (one bottle of scotch is all it takes).
There is nothing likable about said arrogant King, and Alia continues to be a victim who, with Laxmis help, finally manages to escape to Mumbai with a baby girl in her belly. Theres no return to her old life. No mention again of parents, brother or lost love Alex (Himansh Kohli).
In Mumbai, Alia is mentored by a poet played by Prem Chopra who runs a gossip rag where Alia lands a job. She also finds a guardian angel in NRI millionaire-type Aditya Kapoor (Arbaaz Khan) who takes a shine to Alia.
Luck seems to be on her side at last when Alia lands a job in New York City. We see the NYC skyline with the twin towers of the World Trade Center intact. Unless its a major faux pas, we finally have context its sometime before 9/11. This is reinforced when the editor of the Manhattan Times deputes Alia to go to the Middle East and report of the state of widows of the Gulf War. The tented military camp is so cute its almost glamping.
The production design team of Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai has pulled out all stops and bypassed all efforts in research and realism.
Do look out for the song shot partly against a green screen, and the chroma key graphics which is like Disneyland but on a hallucinogenic drug high.
A testing film that tries to deliver messages on womens rights, upliftment, female foeticide etc also resorts to dreadful and offensive attempts at comedy via characters such as Silly Lilly, a bimbo secretary, and an exaggeratedly effeminate waiter.
Clearly funds were not an issue for Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai since sections have been shot on location in Rajasthan and in the USA. But time and energy should have been devoted to script development, editing, directing and applying logic.
Theres only so much Fadnavis who works so hard to deliver a sincere performance and her two portly leading men, can do to distract us from all the flaws and the feeling of regret at having lost three precious hours of ones life.
Sanjay Dutt is currently in Agra, shooting for his upcoming film, Omung Kumar's Bhoomi. TV reports have now claimed that violence has erupted on the set of the film, near Taj Mahal.
A complaint has been filed against Dutt'a guards in Taj Ganj Police Station in Agra, for manhandling journalists who were present to cover the shoot. TV reports are claiming that atleast 5 journalists have been severely injured.
Sanjay Dutt's guards beat up journalists, 5 severely injured pic.twitter.com/TPhi46TOVl NewsX (@NewsX) March 3, 2017
According to sources from Firstpost Hindi, the row began due to the massive turnout on the sets of Bhoomi. The film was being shot in the VVIP lane of Taj Mahal, and a massive crowd had appeared. When journalists went to cover the chaos of the sets, reportedly Sanjay Dutt's guards and bouncers attacked them. Sources from the location have claimed that it was Dutt himself that signaled his guards to take charge, but this has not been documented yet.
A couple of days ago, Times of India reported that the shoot of the film had to be stalled due to massive, unruly crowds that had gathered on location.
It is being reported that the journalists who have been attacked have now filed an FIR against Dutt and his guards. Here is a copy of the letter:
A few videos have emerged from the location, where chaos broke out between Sanjay Dutt's guards, and the crowd gathered. In the video, Dutt is seen trying to take stock of the situation.
While the release date of Bhoomi has not been officially confirmed yet, it will be Sanjay Dutt's first film in years as his last outing was Rajkumar Hirani's science fiction satire PK, in which he played the supporting role of a traditional Rajasthani band member.
Indian Express reports that Bhoomi will be a revenge drama, and it costars Aditi Rao Hydari, who plays Dutt's daughter in the film.
BSF jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav, who in January triggered an uproar by posting a video on Facebook alleging the poor quality of food served, has posted another video. In the new video, Yadav claimed to have been persecuted by the forces for exposing the corruption and has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene.
Yadav alleged in the video that his phone was taken away on 10 January and it may have been tampered with to show that he has contacts in Pakistan. "However, I request you not to believe any of these false rumours until I make a video myself, BSF jawan said in the latest video.
He appealed to the prime minister to come out in his support as he is being targeted for exposing corruption. Yadav said, "I want to ask the prime minister that despite exposing the substandard quality of food, why am I am being tortured mentally?"
Yadav adds that he was following prime minister's goal of eradicating corruption when he uploaded the first video. I request all of you to ask the prime minister if this is what a jawan gets in return for exposing corruption?, Yadav said.
A BSF spokesperson said that a probe was still on, adding that no harassment was meted out to Yadav. He is not in any confinement or being tortured. An investigation is under way about his earlier claims and proper action will be taken after the probe is over, the spokesperson said, according to The Indian Express,
The new video started circulating on WhatsApp around five days ago. Now, it has found its way to social media. The video was shot when his wife went to meet him in Jammu, following a petition in this regard in the Delhi high court. The curtains shown in the video are the ones put on the windows of the Jammu guesthouse where the meeting took place in the second week of February, said a senior Border Security Force (BSF) official, according to Hindustan Times.
Hindustan Times reported the official saying, When his wife went to meet him, she presented him a new phone that he is using. No work has been assigned to him and there are no restrictions on his movement also. There is due process of inquiry and his voluntary retirement application cannot be processed now due to pending inquiry against him.
According to CNN-News18, both the BSF and the Ministry of Home Affairs have serious doubts about Tej Bahadur's motives behind airing his grievances on social media.
A top official in the Home Ministry, to which all paramilitary forces report, told CNN-News18 that he would have recommended the dismissal of Tej Bahadur for continually flouting the rules and posting videos on social media. "We don't interfere in the day-to-day management of the force. That is the BSF DGs prerogative. But if I were the DG, I would have dismissed him. You can't breach discipline repeatedly," the official said.
Tej Bahadur Yadav had on 9 January posted a video on Facebook which showed a meal box comprising a watery soup-like dal, which he said had only turmeric and salt and a burnt chapatti. He had said this is what jawans were served at mealtime on duty at places including the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and that jawans often went to bed on an empty stomach. He had also alleged that the senior officials illegally sold off the food supplies meant for the troopers.
Pursuant to the video going viral on the social media, the Prime Minister's Office had sought a detailed factual report on it from the Union Home Ministry and the Border Security Force (BSF).
A PIL was also filed in the Delhi High Court seeking a direction to the government to depute higher officers to supervise cooking of proper healthy food and its distribution. It sought a status report regarding the quality of food served to soldiers along the LoC.
The high court had issued notice on the petition to various paramilitary forces, including the BSF, seeking their stand on the allegation of poor quality of food being served to the troops. It had also directed BSF to produce before it the investigation report and the steps taken with regard to the allegations levelled by the BSF jawan.
Meanwhile, the Home Ministry has taken strong exception to the fresh video of Yadav and has asked the BSF to look into it as part of the inquiry. According to India.com, senior ministry official said Yadav has crossed the line of discipline and broken service rules by posting the second video.
The BSF in its preliminary enquiry had dismissed Bahadur's allegations. The final enquiry report is expected in three weeks.
The trooper faces an inquiry on various charges, including indiscipline. His plea for voluntary retirement was also rejected by the authorities.
With inputs from agencies
Almost three and half years after Narendra Dabholkar's murder, the CBI has announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for the two wanted accused and Sanatan sadhaks Sarang Akolkar and Vinay Pawar. The duo has been absconding ever since they were named in the 2009 Madgaon blast case. Interpol had even issued a Red-Corner notice against them. Meanwhile, SIT has questioned the founder of Sanatan Sanstha Jayant Athavale.
Dabholkar was shot dead on 20 August, 2013 by two men on motorcycle on Vitthal Ramji Shinde Bridge in Pune. Activists and family members of Dabholkar had demanded a probe into the role of the Right-wing extremist group Sanatan Sanstha. The case was initially being investigated by Pune police, but they failed to reach any conclusion. They had released the sketches of two suspects based on information from witnesses and CCTV footages. It was Dabholkar's son Hamid who noticed that the sketch of one of the suspects resembled Akolkar. The family moved the high court and filed a writ petition demanding that the investigation takes place under the supervision of the court. The case was then transferred to the CBI. However, there has been no significant development made in the investigation until now.
On 16 February, 2015, Govind Pansare and his wife Uma were shot near their home in Kolhapur when they were coming back from their morning walk. Pansare succumbed to his injuries on 20 February, 2015.
Sameer Gaikwad, a member of the Sanatan Sanstha, was arrested in Sangli by SIT in September. Though this brought the sanstha under scanner, there was no progress made in the case after the arrest. Kannada writer MM Kalburgi was shot dead last year in a similar manner. The families requested the court that all three agencies investigating these cases should work in collaboration. The investigators turned their focus on the Sanatan Sanstha, looking into their call record details, locations of sadhaks, their links etc.
In June last year, the CBI searched the houses of Sanatan sadhaks Virendra Tawade in Panvel and Akolkar in Pune. They retrieved some data from their emails and hard disks. Following these raids, Tawade who is also a member of the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, was arrested in connection to the Dabholkar murder case. This was the first arrest made in the case. Police soon found his links to the Pansare murder case. He became the prime accused in both the cases. A witness from Kolhapur, also a former member of the sanstha, met CBI officials and revealed the links it was a breakthrough moment in the case.
According to the chargesheet, Tawade an ENT specialist was associated with the sanstha since 2000. Tawade first worked as the district coordinator in 2000 and was later appointed as the district head. He went on to work as the state head of the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti from 2005. He had organised demonstrations against programmes organised by Dabholkar and Pansare. According to a witness account mentioned in the chargesheet, Tawade had asked Akolkar to show him firearms. He also asked the witness if he can produce similar firearms. He also ordered Akolkar and Pawar to conduct a recce and allegedly conspired the murder of Dabholkar and Pansare. The witness account further said that Akolkar and Pawar (who according to the NIA have been absconding since 2010) were residing in Kolhapur for almost one and half months. The chargesheet also revealed that Tawade has been communicating with the duo via emails and used code words like chocolate for bullets and books for firearms. He had also contacted Gaikwad on the day of Pansare's murder. The chargesheet also mentioned a list compiled by the suspects that included names of people doing 'anti-religious' work and whom they planned to murder. They have been charged under IPC 120(b) and 302.
Akolkar and Pawar were both residing at the santha's Goa ashram before the Madgaon blasts and have been absconding since their names came up in the investigation. According to the chargesheet, they are the ones who fired the shots at Dabholkar and Pansare. Dabholkar's picture with a cross mark on it was published in the Sanatan Sanstha's publication Sanatan Prabhat. A week after the killing, an article applauding the murder was published.
"We are probing into the whereabouts of the absconding accused. We have also questioned the sanstha chief and probed into the operations of the organisation," said Sanjay Kumar who is leading the special investigation team.
It has been a long wait for Dabholkar and Pansare's family. The CBI announcement has given them fresh hope. "We have been demanding that the CBI collaborate with the NIA and expand their search for Akolkar and Pawar. The authorities have finally published a notice. If they had expedited the investigation after murder, then Pansare and Kalburgi might have been alive today," Dabholkar's son Hamid told Firstpost. "We hope the investigating agencies nab them soon. It is an important development and the CBI should act fast. As long as they are roaming free, they remain a threat to the rational thinkers of the country," he added.
Pansare's daughter-in-law Medha said, "We have been constantly following up the case and things are moving because of the pressure from the court. They have finally declared Akolkar and Pawar as absconding in Dabholkar case. But SIT has still not done this in the Pansare case, though both of them have been named as the prime accused in the chargesheet. We hope that they do it soon now." She also expressed concern about the constantly changing investigating officers. " If a dedicated team is appointed, they will be able to concentrate on the investigation," she added.
Sanatan Sanstha has denied these allegations. Abhay Vartak, their spokesperson, said, "The SIT came to the sanstha ashram in Ramnathi (Goa). They held discussions with Virendra Marathe, a trustee of the sanstha. The sanstha has always cooperated with the investigations and will continue to do so."
The sanstha claims to be a non-profit organisation and their main objective is to present spirituality in scientific language and guide the seekers.
The next hearing of the case is scheduled for 17 March. Investigating agencies are likely to submit the details of the probe to the court. But will this lead to any conclusion? Not till these two absconding accused are arrested, say the family members.
The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) on Friday declared Vector Bank (Kyiv) insolvent, the central bank has reported on its website.
Decision No. 112-rsh/BT was made by the NBU board on March 2 over the large reduction of liquidity of the bank and submission of untrue statistics reports.
The NBU said, referring to the statistics report of Vector Bank, that ending stocks on its correspondent account in the central bank is critical: as of March 1, 2017 there were UAH 76,000 on it or 0.1% of the bank's liabilities.
The only owner of the bank did not provide for the financial support to prevent bank's insolvency.
When Vector Bank was placed on the list of troubled banks facts of hiding the unsettled transactions of clients in accounting reports were established.
"Thus, Vector Bank is not able to implement legal claims of creditors in the full amount and in the terms approved over a lack of funds," the NBU said.
The central bank said that 95% of depositors of the bank 852 depositors would receive their deposits in the full amount, as their size is equal or less than the guaranteed sum of UAH 200,000.
The Individuals Deposit Guarantee Fund will pay around UAH 77.7 million.
As reported, the NBU registered Vector Bank on January 31, 2014.
Early August 2016, the founder of Digital Space IT company Andriy Pekal became the full owner of the bank.
The bank ranked 86th among 93 operating banks as of January 1, 2017, in terms of total assets worth UAH 203.834 million, according to the National Bank of Ukraine.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday expressed grave concern over farmers' suicide due to indebtedness and crop failure and said it felt the government was going in a "wrong direction" in tackling the real problem. Asking the Centre to apprise it of the policy roadmap to address the burning issue, a bench headed by Chief Justice J S Khehar said the issue of farmers' suicide was of "extreme importance" and paying compensation to the families of such victims "post-facto" was not the real solution.
"This issue is of extreme importance. Tentatively, we feel that you are going in a wrong direction. Farmers take loan from banks and when they are unable to repay, they commit suicide. The remedy to the problem is not to pay money to farmers after the suicide, but you should have schemes to prevent this. "Farmers' suicides have been happening for so many decades and it is surprising that no action has been taken to address the causes behind suicides." The bench, also comprising Justices D Y Chandrachud and S K Kaul, said "if the matter is moved on a right track, a lot can be achieved" and fixed the plea for further hearing on 27 March.
Additional Solicitor General P S Narasimha, appearing for the Centre, told the bench that the government has initiated many schemes for farmers and the 2015 crop insurance scheme would drastically reduce such fateful incidents. The ASG said other schemes also needed to be strengthened to make farmers feel that the government would stand behind them in distress. The court was hearing the plea, filed by NGO 'Citizens Resource and Action and Initiative' on the plight of farmers in Gujarat and suicide committed by many there. The bench had expanded the scope of the petition to the entire country.
Advocate Colin Gonsalves, appearing for the NGO, said that government policies have been existing since long but the main issue was to implement the schemes on the ground. He also referred to the studies conducted by renowned agriculture scientist M S Swaminathan and eminent journalist P Sainath on farmer suicides and suggested that they may also be asked to put forth their recommendations and views. The PIL was confined to Gujarat had sought compensation to the families of 619 debt-ridden farmers who had allegedly committed suicide since 2003.
The NGO had also sought a direction to the state to pay compulsory financial aid of Rs 30,000 per hectare to the farmers who had suffered crop failure. It had challenged the July 10, 2013 order of the Gujarat High Court dismissing its plea for compensation and alleged that the farmers were being neglected by the state government. Earlier, the apex court had indicated that the suicides may be linked to certain inherent deficiencies in the National Policy for Farmers, 2007, which may be revisited.
President Pranab Mukherjee delivered the sixth KS Rajamony Memorial Lecture in Kochi on Wednesday.
The president talked about the importance of reasoned discussion and debate in universities in India, the country's growth rate and the importance of discussions in the Parliament and state legislatures.
Here is the full text of the president's speech:
I am happy to be in Kerala to deliver the 6th Memorial Lecture in honour of eminent lawyer and former Member of the Kerala Public Men Inquiry Commission, Shri KS Rajamony.
I have visited Kerala many times in different capacities during my public life. It has been the gateway to India for traders and religious missionaries from different parts of the globe. The people of Kerala are known for their progressive thinking. The States impressive achievements in the field of literacy, education, health, gender equality, tourism and culture have brought it global acclaim.
The Kerala High Court, its Judges as well as lawyers enjoy high reputation across the country. Luminaries like Justice VR Krishna Iyer made very valuable contributions in delivery of justice to the poor and underprivileged.
The topic of todays lecture is India at 70. This August 15, India will complete seventy years since we became independent. For 50 years before Independence, the economic growth rate of India was 0% to 1%. In the fifties, our growth rate rose to 1 2%, the sixties 3 4% and in the 90s, with economic reforms, to 6 to 7%. In the last decade, our growth rate has averaged around 8%, making us the fastest growing large economy of the world.
Indias population in 1950 was 360 million. Today, we are a 1.3 billion strong nation. Our annual per capita income has gone up from Rs 7,500 at the time of independence to over Rs 77,000. GDP growth rate has risen from 2.3 percent to 7.9 percent in 2015-16. Poverty ratio has declined from over 60 percent to less than 25 percent. Average life expectancy has gone up from 31.4 to 68.4 years. Literacy rate has gone up from 18 to 74 percent. Food grains production has gone up from 45 million to an estimated 272 million tonnes in 2016-17.
India led a ship to mouth existence in the early days of independence. We had to survive on import of food grains from abroad. Today, we not only produce enough food grains to feed ourselves but are also exporting the same.
In 1947, we had no industry worth its name. In contrast, today we are the 10th largest industrialised nation in the world. Our technological base as well as network of research laboratories and higher education institutions are looked upon by the world with admiration. Indias space, IT, bio-tech and pharma industries are of a global standard. Only two weeks back, Isro set a world record launching 104 satellites into space at one go, a feat no other country has achieved. We not only reached Mars in our very first attempt but also achieved it at a cost far lower than anyone else in the world.
In the last 70 years, tangible change can be seen in every aspect of our lives. India has transformed itself from a poor under-developed nation into the third largest economy in the world in PPP terms within a short span of seven decades.
Equally important is our success in consolidating the unity of our nation and our democracy in the midst of extraordinary challenges and tremendous diversity. We have firmly established within our country the rule of law, an independent judiciary and vibrant media as well as civil society. We have also created strong institutions like the Election Commission and the CAG who stand as pillars of our political system. Every known religion in the world, over hundred different languages used in everyday life, 1600 dialects and multiple cultures are united under one flag and one Constitution. Around 553 million people voted in the 2014 General Elections, an exercise matched in scale and scope by none else in the world.
Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen,
The most important legacy bequeathed to us by our founding fathers is our Constitution.
A Constitution is a charter for the governance of a nation. The notion of what is good governance must be defined by the need of the times and enriched by the experience of the decades. Yet, the Constitution enshrines certain timeless values that should never be compromised. It is against the touchstone of these values that we must constantly measure our performance.
The Preamble records the resolve of the people of India to secure to all citizens justice social, economic and political as well as liberty, equality and fraternity. It also establishes the principle of secularism.
Justice social, economic and political is in the life of any nation a journey more than a destination. To achieve social justice requires not mere governance but a recasting of mindsets and the transformation of social ethos. That is the job not just of the legislature, the executive or the courts, but of each one of us.
The ultimate goal of any democracy is the empowerment of the individual, irrespective of his economic, religious or social standing. This may appear to be a utopian dream for many, but the strength of a system lies in its capacity to ceaselessly work for its accomplishment. The goal of political justice requires the continuous empowerment of marginalised sections of our society. We owe ourselves to create a system in which access to politics is not limited to a privileged few but an average Indian also feels empowered enough to contribute.
Economic development is vital to good governance. We cannot distribute wealth which we do not possess. Therefore, production of wealth must necessarily be one of the predominant objectives of state policy. However, this must be imbued with the principle of equality on which there can be no compromise.
An egalitarian society can only be created when growth is inclusive. It is important to ensure that there is justice and equality of opportunity and the state does not create conditions in which the privileged few gain at the cost of the multitudes who suffer endemic poverty. A sustainable society can only be based on the principles of equity and justice. The Indian Constitution has been rightly described as a Magna Carta of socio economic transformation.
When India became independent, many in the world thought our democratic experiment would never succeed. They looked at our diversity, poverty as well as the lack of education of our people and predicted that India would lapse into authoritarian rule or military dictatorship. But, the people of India proved these prophets of doomsday wrong.
Yet, we must be conscious of the fact that our democracy requires constant nurturing. At no cost should we allow the exploitation of the fault lines. Those who spread violence must remember that Buddha, Ashoka and Akbar are remembered as heroes in history; not Hitler or Genghis Khan.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I do not consider a society or State to be civilised if its citizens behaviour towards women is uncivilised. When we brutalise a woman, we wound the soul of our civilisation. Not only does our Constitution guarantee equal rights to women but our culture and tradition also celebrate the feminine as divine. Protection and safety of our women and children must be a nationwide priority. The acid test of any society is its attitude towards women and children. India should not fail this test.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
There should be no room in India for the intolerant Indian. India has been since ancient times a bastion of free thought, speech and expression. Our society has always been characterised by the open contest of diverse schools of thought and debate as well as discussion. Freedom of speech and expression is one of the most important fundamental rights guaranteed by our Constitution. There must be space for legitimate criticism and dissent.
Friends,
India was a world leader in the field of education when our Universities like Nalanda and Takshshila were at the height of their glory. Nalanda and Takshshila are not mere geographical expressions but representations of the idea for free thought which flourished in these great Universities of the past. Our premier institutions of higher education are the vehicles on which India has to propel itself into a knowledge society. These temples of learning must resound with creativity and free thinking. Those in Universities must engage in reasoned discussion and debate rather than propagate a culture of unrest. It is tragic to see them caught in the vortex of violence and disquiet.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Our first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, believed that democracy was something deeper than voting, elections or a political form of government. He said, "In the ultimate analysis, it is a manner of thinking, a manner of action, a manner of behaviour to your neighbour and to your adversary and opponent."
Our leaders and political activists must listen to the people, engage with them, learn from them and respond to their needs and concerns. Our lawmakers must never take the people for granted. They must focus on the fundamental task of law making and raising of issues of concern to the people as well as finding solutions to their problems.
Legislation is the first and foremost responsibility of a Parliamentarian. It is most unfortunate that time devoted towards legislation has been gradually declining in our Parliament. To illustrate, the first Lok Sabha from 1952-57 had 677 sittings in which 319 bills were passed. In comparison, the fourteenth Lok Sabha from 2004-2009 had 332 sittings and passed just 247 bills. The fifteenth Lok Sabha had 357 sittings and passed 181 bills while the sixteenth Lok Sabha has had 197 sittings and passed only 111 bills (upto the 10th session).
Figures are available for the time lost due to interruptions/adjournments from the Tenth Lok Sabha (1991-96) onwards. 9.95% of total time was lost due to interruptions in the Tenth Lok Sabha, 5.28% in the Eleventh Lok Sabha, 11.93% in the Twelfth Lok Sabha, 18.95% in the Thirteenth Lok Sabha, 19.58% in the Fourteenth Lok Sabha, a shocking 41.6% in the Fifteenth Lok Sabha and about 16% in the Sixteenth Lok Sabha (upto the 10th session).
Ladies and Gentlemen:
No one who holds any elected office has been invited by the voters to occupy that office. Each one has gone to the voters and pleaded for their votes and support. The trust placed by the people in the political system and those elected should not be betrayed.
Our Legislatures and Parliament must not turn into arenas for combat. Floor tests are not meant to be muscle tests. The opportunity to represent the people is not a right or entitlement but a moral obligation and duty. Our elected representatives owe it to the people of our country to act as models of exemplary conduct.
Friends,
The Parliament of India and our Legislative Assemblies are central pillars on which the edifice of our democracy rests. They are the supreme institutions comprising of members directly elected by our people. It is through them that governments are held accountable by the people. If they become dysfunctional, it results in not just paralysis of those institutions but creates an adverse impact across the system. The debate and discussions which ought to take place in the open in the House of Parliament and Assemblies cannot be replicated elsewhere. When they cease to function effectively, issues spill out onto the streets. The very basis of our democracy gets undermined.
Let me read certain extracts from the well known speech made to a Constituent Assembly on November 25, 1949 by Dr BR Ambedkar. He said and I quote:
"however good a Constitution may be, it is sure to turn out bad because those who are called to work it, happen to be a bad lot. However bad a Constitution may be, it may turn out to be good if those who are called to work it, happen to be a good lot. The working of a Constitution does not depend wholly upon the nature of the Constitution. The Constitution can provide only the organs of State such as the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary. The factors on which the working of those organs of the State depend are the people and the political parties they will set up as their instruments to carry out their wishes and their politics.
"Will Indians place the country above their creed or will they place creed above country? I do not know. But this much is certain that if the parties place creed above country, our independence will be put in jeopardy a second time and probably be lost forever. This eventuality we must all resolutely guard against.
"..If we wish to maintain democracy not merely in form, but also in fact, what must we do? The first thing in my judgement we must do is to hold fast to constitutional methods of achieving our social and economic objectives. It means we must abandon the bloody methods of revolution. But where constitutional methods are open, there can be no justification for these unconstitutional methods. These methods are nothing but the Grammar of Anarchy and the sooner they are abandoned, the better for us. (Unquote)
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I recall a famous story of Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Walking out after conclusion of deliberations of the Constitution Convention of 1787, a lady, Ms. Pomel of Philadelphia asked him "Doctor, what have we got, a Republic or Monarchy? With no hesitation whatsoever, Benjamin Franklin responded, "A Republic, if you can keep it.
The time has come for collective efforts to re-discover the sense of national purpose and patriotism that alone can lift our nation on to the road of sustained progress and prosperity. The nation and the people must always come first. Let us strive to arrest the moral decline in our society and ensure that our core civilisational values find firm root. Let us exert ourselves to strengthen Indias pluralism and diversity. Let us be uncompromising in rooting out violence, prejudice and hatred.
Let us strive for rapid progress but even as we do so, ensure that the benefits of economic progress percolate down to the poorest of the poor and those living in the furthest corners of our country. Let us make the poorest in our land part of the story of a rising India. Let us embrace education, skill development and innovation which will enable us catapult India into the future and build a knowledge economy, riding the technological wave of the 21st century.
I see a very bright future for India. Our Constitutional values, young population and entrepreneurial abilities as well as capacity for hard work provide us the fundamentals required for rapid progress as well as the building of a caring and compassionate society. India has changed dramatically in the last 70 years. I am confident that in the next ten years, we will see even greater progress as we steer our nation, focused on further strengthening our open, democratic and inclusive society.
Thank you,
Jai Hind!
After years of subtle and not-so-subtle attempts to get India to cede control of the Tawang Tract (in Arunachal Pradesh), China has made another play for that territory. Former Chinese diplomat Dai Bingguo was quoted as having told a Chinese daily that India ceding the Tawang Tract to Beijing could set the wheels in motion for an early resolution of the India-China border. This is an offer that has been made to India in the past too, but New Delhi has always declined it.
The unsettled border is one of the biggest sources of disagreement between the two countries and after 19 rounds of talks a large number of which were chaired by Dai between special representatives of both countries, a solution appears no closer in sight. That said, this statement by Dai, that comes close on the heels of the first strategic dialogue between the two countries, requires further analysis.
Dai was quoted as having said, "If the Indian side takes care of Chinas concerns in the eastern sector of their border, the Chinese side will respond accordingly and address Indias concerns elsewhere... China and India are now standing in front of the gate towards a final settlement. The gate is a framework solution based on meaningful and mutually accepted adjustments. Now, the Indian side holds the key to the gate."
Which is all well and good for China. After all, Beijing refers to the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as South Tibet, claiming it to be "inalienable from Chinas Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction". Speaking of this cultural background aspect, it is believed that control of Tawang will tighten China's grip on Tibetan Buddhism.
There are a number of reasons India has rejected this offer in the past and is likely to continue to do so in the future for the following reasons:
First, there's a problem of nomenclature. To India, Tawang refers to a small town in Arunachal Pradesh. Just what China means by the 'Tawang Tract' is as-yet-unknown to India. It could mean the town or it could mean the entirety of Arunachal Pradesh.
Second, there's the strategic importance of the disputed area. Control of Tawang would give China the ability to cut India's North East from the rest of the country.
Third, there's the Bhutan factor. Thimphu has no diplomatic relations with Beijing, and remains one of New Delhi's closest partners in the region. Control of Tawang would give China the ability to flank Bhutan from the East, and allow it to put pressure on the country.
Fourth, there's the message that would go out to Pakistan. Seeing India cede territory to China would send Islamabad the message that New Delhi is in the mood to hand out swathes of land. And this will lead to more trouble in Kashmir.
It is primarily for these reasons that India is unlikely to take China up on this idea.
The number of Indian Muslims is projected to rise to more than 300 million by 2050, making India the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, according to the latest data released by the Pew Research Center, a US-based think tank. The estimated change in the population size worldwide from 2010 to 2050 is projected to be 73 percent for Muslims and 34 percent for Hindus. Indonesia is the largest Muslim country in terms of population currently.
By 2050, India will have the largest populations of two religions in the world: Hinduism and Islam. The actual number of Muslims in India will be about 311 million in 2050, about 11 percent of the global Muslim population. As per the research, rise in the Muslim population is high due to the young median age of 22 and high fertility rates, while 26 is the median age for Hindus in India. In India, Muslim women have 3.2 children per woman on average, while the figure for Hindu and Christian women is 2.5 and 2.3 children respectively.
These population trends may cause anxiety among non-Muslims worldwide, who already appear to be affected by issues involving Islam. For example, the rise of Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State in the Middle East has caused migrations to Europe, while there are concerns on the nature of Islam itself, as it affects communitarian relationships between Muslims and non-Muslims in many parts of the world. In the streets of London, groups of Islamist men stop non-Muslim couples from holding hands in public, saying it is un-Islamic; European cities are witnessing the emergence of Islamic enclaves where only Sharia laws are practised by Muslims who do not use the local policing and legal systems, and run their own courts.
India is already a Sharia-compliant State in many respects, notably on the issues of marriage, divorce, inheritance and a host of religious institutions as well as a large number of madrassas funded by the secular Indian State.
There are also cultural movements that are affecting the liberty of Muslim women. For example, there were no burqas in the villages and towns of India about two decades ago, but now there is a flourishing trend in favour of them, which appears to be altering the character of Indian society in a fundamental way. By 2050, India's towns will have social enclaves in which Muslims will have their own Islamic lifestyles and distinct Arab food and clothing, which will no longer resonate with the pluralism and co-existence of India of today.
Furthermore, no Indian think tank is presently studying the Arab influences brought in by Muslims working in the Gulf. The new population projection of Indian Muslims will also adversely affect the Muslim-Hindu relations.
India is already holding contentious debates about different issues involving Islam, especially with regards to the arbitrary practice of triple talaq sanctioned by the dominant sections of Islamic clergy in India. There is a fear that the rights to equality and liberty of Muslim women can no longer be protected by the Indian State due to the Muslim community's behaviour, which prevents the State from making substantive policies for Muslims.
Indian Muslims are opposing a movement for equal rights to be legislated as part of the Uniform Civil Code despite not knowing yet what specifics will constitute such a code finally. The rising population changes the Muslim community's political and cultural behaviour. There are regions in India which are being proudly described as "mini-Pakistan" by Muslims, not by Hindus. In the states of West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala and many other pockets, Muslims no longer behave as a minority community. In fact, this so-called minority community is electorally assertive and politically demanding, while forcing the majority Hindus to behave as a minority, notably at the election times by wearing caps and courting their minority votes.
Largely due to the incompetence of the Union Home Ministry, whose job it is to shape the country's rule of law, the Indian State too has learnt to bend its law enforcement to suit the Muslims. For example, Hindus such as Kamlesh Tiwari can be arrested for criticising the prophet of Islam, but the Indian State seems to be totally powerless against Islamic clerics who publicly announce rewards for beheading anyone who criticises Islam.
This political behaviour of Indian Muslims, emerging from their growing demography, is also disturbing for another reason: It is difficult for police officers to arrest Muslim criminals hiding in Muslim localities; for such an arrest to be made, the police need to have an entire battalion to enter the locality.
The behaviour of Indian Muslims is overwhelmingly shaped by Islamic clerics, not by mainstream Muslim intellectuals or non-governmental organisations (NGOs) run by Hindus who basically endorse the anti-liberty and anti-women positions of clerics, thereby bearing upon the character of the Indian State and its ability to manage communitarian relationships.
This is complicated by the fact that the world's largest Islamic movements have their headquarters in India. For example, the headquarters of the Barelvi-Sufi Islam is in the town of Bareilly. The global centre of the Deobandi-Wahhabi Islam is in the town of Deoband. The international headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslims is in the town of Qadian in Punjab. The global headquarters of the Tablighi Jamaat is situated in India's national capital. All of these are revivalist movements in Islam.
With the rising Muslim population, these Islamic groups are becoming more assertive and are also seeking to influence the country's politics by aligning with different political parties whose leaders go on to endorse the Muslim communal behaviour in the name of secularism which basically is pro-Muslim sectarianism in the Indian context.
The Congress party brought in the Right to Education Act, which could have allowed for madrassas to be declared as non-schools, thereby hoping that some educational reforms in the early 6-14 age group for Muslim children could have ensured progressive reform among Muslims.
However, to suit their so-called secularism, the Indian State again went down on its knees and exempted madrassas, which are centres of religious excellence and counter-liberty movements, not educational institutions. This surrender by the Indian State in the case of the RTE Act was similar to the Indian State's surrender before the Islamic clerics in the Shah Bano case, when the behaviour of Indian Muslims prevailed upon the Supreme Court, whose judgement in favour of maintenance for the destitute Muslim was quashed via a parliamentary legislation.
In the coming decades, Indian Muslims' rising population will force the State to behave repeatedly in a similar way, though the Narendra Modi government has signalled some fundamental change in the nature of the State, with its pro-liberty stance on the issues of triple talaq and UCC.
The Pew population projections are for 33 years later. If we look back for roughly the same period in history, we see some templates. Before the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Tehran, Iranian women could wear skirts and participate in public life alongside men. Today, women in Iran are forced wear chador, a type of burqa. Before the arrival of Soviet troops in Afghanistan, the liberal women of Kabul could walk in skirts to colleges and offices. Now, burqas are everywhere.
Freedom of women and minorities has been a major casualty of the Islamic Revolution in Tehran. As a consequence of the Afghan war in the 80s, a number of militant commanders went on to establish their own small militant groups in the Middle East.
The likelihood is that a number of militants fighting in Syria and Iraq will go on to form their own jihadi nuclei in different parts of the world. While democracy emerged from the debris of the World War II and began spreading to the rest of the world, it was only after the Islamic Revolution in Iran that it entered a serious competition against the State-backed theocratic system of Islam.
The rise of increasing overt religiosity among Muslims in India and elsewhere, the supporting role of Indian Islamic movements worldwide and the emergence of the next-generation of jihadis will likely change the character of democracies worldwide.
The problem is that in India, no political party shows any understanding of how to shape a modernist path for Muslims, while the Bharatiya Janata Party remains diffident in tackling Muslim issues.
Former BBC journalist, Tufail Ahmad is a contributing editor at Firstpost, and executive director of the Open Source Institute, New Delhi. He tweets @tufailelif
New Delhi: India on Friday downplayed its participation in an upcoming meeting in Pakistan to discuss various aspects of the Indus Waters Treaty, saying it does not amount to a resumption of government-level Indo-Pak talks, which have been stalled over terrorist strikes by Pak-based groups. Senior government officials insisted the Permanent Indus Commission, which will meet in Lahore later this month, deals with technical matters concerning the implementation of the Indus Water Treaty and not with any political aspect.
India's participation comes nearly six months after New Delhi decided to suspend talks on the pact in the wake of the terror strikes by groups based across the border. Noting that the commission has met 112 times since 1960, they said the Indian representative to the commission has accepted an invitation by his Pakistani counterpart for the meeting.
No date has been set for the meeting."Mutually convenient dates and mutually agreeable agenda are worked out directly by the commissioners themselves and the government has no role in this regard," said a senior government official.
"The commission is not concerned with political aspects," he said, adding that "there is no shift" in the government's stance. Declaring that "blood and water cannot flow together", Prime Minister Narendra Modi had held a meeting in September to review the treaty in the backdrop of the terror strikes, including the Uri attack. After the meeting, officials had announced that the government has decided to suspend further talks and increase the utilisation of rivers flowing through Jammu and Kashmir to fully exercise India's rights under the pact.
The last meeting of the commission was held in May 2015. The commission, which has officials from both the countries as its members, was set up under the 57-year-old treaty to discuss and resolve issues relating to its implementation. The commission is a body entrusted with everyday implementation of the IWT, which mandates it to meet at least once every year, alternately in India and Pakistan.
Srinagar: The Union Home Ministry's decision to authorise Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to procure additional 5000 pellet guns with whooping six lakh cartridges to be used on Kashmiri protesters would only "aggravate the situation" in Valley, noted human rights activists and academicians said.
"I don't think the weaponisation can control the situation in Kashmir, it will only aggravate it," human rights defender and coordinator of Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society, Khurram Parvez, told Firstpost.
He said that the central and state governments want to control dissent through violence.
"This shows that the government of India has not come out of the idea of controlling dissent through force and engage in a meaningful dialogue," Parvez said.
According to a report, after the Home Ministry's authorisation for 4,949 pellet guns for CRPF, their total number will rise to 5,589 which will be powered by 6 lakh cartridges. Every CRPF company will be equipped with nine pellet guns.
Hundreds of protesters were blinded partially or completely during last year's turmoil due to the indiscriminate use of pellets by forces. The people hit by pellets in their eyes have to undergo multiple surgeries to correct their vision. Over the years, at least six people have lost their lives by pellet guns.
"I don't understand the logic behind the idea of increasing the number of pellet guns in Kashmir when the use of this so-called non-lethal weapon has already backfired. Is India preparing to blind another generation of Kashmiris?" a political science professor at Kashmir University, who wished not to be named, told Firstpost over phone.
"The Government of India should shun the policy of meeting Kashmiri protestors with weapons. It is a failed policy. It seems that the policy corridors in Delhi are facing intellectual bankruptcy when it comes to think about Kashmir," the professor said.
The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir has banned the use of pellet guns in Valley last year. But both the Union and State Government dishonored the Court decision and went ahead with the use of pellets on protesters during the 2016 anti-India protests in Valley.
"We are yet to hear that the government wants to engage in a dialogue to resolve the dispute of Kashmir. They are worried about the upcoming summer but if they would engage Kashmiri leadership (Hurriyat) in a political dialogue why would people come out on roads?," Khurram said.
He said that the decision to increase the number of pellet guns in Kashmir was a clear policy of militarisation, weaponisation and not politics of resolution.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has also announced the use of modified or 'tweaked' pellet guns to minimise the impact of aluminum pellets on people. However, the people said the "modified" guns won't make any difference.
According to the protocol, the pellet guns or any other crowd control weapons should be aimed at the legs of the protesters to make them less lethal. However, the number of injuries caused by pellets last year in Kashmir only suggest that they were aimed above the waist height, to damage vital parts of the body including head.
"We should not be surprised if many more youth will be blinded by forces this year," a Kashmiri researcher based in New Delhi said.
The modified guns, according to CRPF, would have a 'deflector' fixed to the muzzle so that the shot does not go up the waist height of a protester.
"The pellet guns are one of the many options that we will use when we operate to control protesters in the coming days. PAVA (packed with chilli) shells have a long shelf life and they are good in certain situations. But we have made it clear that the CRPF man on ground will use whatever the situation demands," outgoing CRPF Director General, K Durga Prasad, told PTI.
By Shreya Shah
The economic blockade of the Imphal-Dimapur road and the Imphal-Silchar road, through which most goods are brought into the state, has overshadowed all other issues this election year in Manipur, the north-eastern state with one of Indias highest poverty rates, high youth unemployment, and low growth.
State elections in Manipur, a state half the size of Haryana, with one-third the population of Mumbai, over 30 tribal groups, and six active terrorist groups, will take place in two phases, on March 4 and March 8, 2017.
The economic blockadea manifestation of the states ethnic conflictis the burning problem right now, said Binod Kumai, a research associate with the Institute for Conflict Management, a New Delhi-based nonprofit. Prices of necessary commodities have skyrocketed, with cooking gas cylinders being sold for Rs 1,000 (Rs 651.50 in the national capital) and a litre of petrol for Rs 200 (Rs 71.33 in the national capital), he explained.
People are not able to see beyond the hope of peace, said Pradip Phanjoubam, editor of the Imphal Free Press, on the blockade ongoing since November 1, 2016.
On December 8, 2016, the Manipur government issued a gazette notification dividing seven districts into 14 districts.
The blockade has been imposed by the United Naga Council, which demands the government go back on its decision to create new districts in the hill areas of Manipur, Firstpost reported in February 2017. The group contends that Naga groups were not consulted before the decision, and some new districts divide what Nagas consider their ancestral land.
The government, led by chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh, said that new districts will help administer the region better, as the Hindustan Times reported in January 2017. The new districts do not change assembly constituencies.
But the focus on the blockade has pushed other important issues in Manipur to the background.
Low per capita income, unsteady growth
The per capita income of Manipur of Rs 24,042 is one of the lowest in the country, and trends over the last 10 years show a slow increase, and sometimes, even contraction in both the net domestic product and the per capita income of the state, according to information compiled by the NITI Aayog.
Source: NITI Aayog
Tepid growth is also one of the causes of high urban unemployment. As many as 188 out of 1,000 people between the ages of 18 and 29 years in urban areas of Manipur are unemployed, compared to the Indian average of 139 people per 1,000a challenge in a state with 23.3% of its population between the age of 18 and 29 years.
Unemployment should have been a big issue, but isnt because of the blockade, said Phanjoubam, editor of the Imphal Free Press. This election is removed from everyday realities.
Source: Report on Youth Unemployment, 2015-2016, Ministry of Labour and Employment; *Ages 18-29
A third of Manipuris live under poverty line, but good basic-health indicators
Two of those realities appear to be in conflict: Indias third-poorest state also has the countrys lowest infant mortality rate (IMR), which at nine deaths per 1,000 live births is better than Brazil, Argentina and Saudi Arabia, according to World Bank data.
Some reasons for low infant deaths include better medical facilities, more doctors and nurses and women empowerment, as IndiaSpend reported in February 2016. Manipur has one doctor for every 1,000 people, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), and better than the all India average of one doctor for 1,700 people. The trained nurse to population ratio is 1:600 compared to the India average of 1:638.
The number and proportion of people below the poverty line in Manipur has fallen since 2009, but, in 2011-12, over a third of Manipurs population still lived below the poverty line of Rs 1,118 per capita per month in rural areas and Rs 1,170 in urban areas.
Only two statesChhattisgarh and Jharkhandhave a higher proportion of people below the poverty line than Manipur.
Source: Planning Commission reports here and here, Ministry of Development of North-eastern Region estimates
Women in the state are also better off that most in India. A girl born is more likely to be educated; more likely to be working as an adult; more likely to survive childbirth and more likely to not be the victim of crime, than in most Indian states, as IndiaSpend reported in November 2016.
Source: Census 2011; Census 2011; The National Sample Survey Office Report; Regional Institute of Medical Sciences Manipur 2010-11; Sample Registration System Report 2010-12; NCRB Crime in India 2015 Report.
Note: Rankings are among 29 states; they do not include union territories.
These health and gender indicators are high in spite of the insurgency, which began in the 1960s, after Manipur, home to over thirty tribes, became a part of the Indian union.
There are broadly two insurgent demandsone from the Nagas who want Greater Nagaland, a state which would contain parts of Manipur. The Nagas are one of three major ethnic groups in Manipur, along with the valley-based Meiteis and the hill based-Kukis.
The other insurgent group, comprised of the majority Meiteis, wants to secede from India, and form a separate sovereign state. Despite the turmoil, deaths related to the insurgency have fallen.
Reduction in insurgency-related deaths: Down 90% over 10 years
Overall, since 2009, fatalities because of insurgent activity in Manipur have reduced, with a greater reduction since 2012. In 2016, 14 civilians and 11 security officers died, down from 107 civilians and 37 security officers in 2006, according to data from the South Asia Terrorism Portal.
Another issue of contention is the 59-year-old Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which provides special powers to Indian armed forces in disturbed areas of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. These include the power to fire, even if it causes death, at any person who breaks a law, including assemblies with more than five people.
The AFSPA also gives an officer the power to arrest without a warrant a person who has committed a cognisable offence (serious crimes for which a police officer can start investigation without permission of the court), or if the officer has suspicions that the person might commit one. An officer working under this Act cannot be prosecuted without the sanction of the central government.
Detractors say it gives armed forces too much power and allows them to act with impunity. Residents have demanded the act be rescinded from Manipur.
Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal
Irom Sharmila, a Manipuri activist who was on a hunger strike against AFSPA for the past 16 years, broke her fast this year, to form a political party with the aim of repealing the Act from Manipur. Her party, Peoples Resurgence and Justice Alliance, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the Naga Peoples Front, are some major parties contesting for a government that has been run by the Congress party for 15 years.
(Shah is a writer/editor with IndiaSpend.)
As campuses are in the midst of a debate on sedition, freedom of speech and expression, president Pranab Mukherjee made a few references to the importance of tolerance. Advocating free thinking in university campuses, President Pranab Mukherjee said students and faculties must engage in "reasoned discussion and debate rather than propagating a culture of unrest."
Giving a speech at the KS Rajamony Memorial Lecture in Kochi, Kerala, he said: "There should be no room in India for the intolerant Indian. India has been since ancient times a bastion of free thought, speech and expression."
His comments come in the backdrop of the ongoing tussle between RSS-affiliate ABVP and Left-backed AISA supporters in the Delhi University and a raging debate over free speech and nationalism following recent tweets of one of the varsity's students Gurmehar Kaur.
Mukherjee also cautioned against the exploitation of "fault lines" in the society, intolerance and attack on women. The views of Kaur, daughter of an army officer killed in action against militants, evoked sharp reaction from Union minister Kiren Rijiju who went on to ask, "who is polluting her mind". Kaur was allegedly threatened with rape on her Facebook page and was mocked by sportspersons and celebrities who questioned her pacifist approach.
He added that India has always been a place where "diverse schools of thought" existed and that "freedom of speech and expression" is one of the key rights given to Indians by the Constitution. "There must be space for legitimate criticism and dissent," he said.
As far as universities are concerned, he referred to Nalanda and Takshashila as "representations of the idea for free thought" and that it is through premier institutions that will help push India into a knowledge society.
"These temples of learning must resound with creativity and free thinking. Those in Universities must engage in reasoned discussion and debate rather than propagate a culture of unrest. It is tragic to see them caught in the vortex of violence and disquiet," he said.
The president invoked Jawaharlal Nehru and said, "In the ultimate analysis, it is a manner of thinking, a manner of action, a manner of behaviour to your neighbour and to your adversary and opponent.
Mukherjee, who has been in public life for almost six decades, advised lawmakers and political activists to listen, engage, learn from people and respond to their needs and concerns. Asking the lawmakers not to take the people for granted, he said they must focus on the fundamental task of law making and raising of issues of concern to the people as well as finding solutions to their problems. "No one who holds any elected office has been invited by the voters to occupy that office. Each one has gone to the voters and pleaded for their votes and support. The trust placed by the people in the political system and those elected should not be betrayed," he said.
"An egalitarian society can only be created when growth is inclusive. It is important to ensure that there is justice and equality of opportunity and the state does not create conditions in which the privileged few gain at the cost of the multitudes who suffer endemic poverty," he added.
Read the full text of the president's speech here.
With inputs from PTI
One civilian was killed and five others, including four CRPF jawans, were injured in a fresh attack on an army unit in South Kashmir's Pulwama district.
The incident was reported from the Muran Chowk area of the Pulwama district, when some militants lobbed a grenade targeting a police party in the area, in which one civilian succumbed to his injuries, while another trooper remains critical, according to The Greater Kashmir.
"Militants lobed a grenade at a security force party in Muran Chowk of Pulwama town," a police official said.
Muhammad Ayoub Wani, who was injured in the explosion, later died from his injuries.
The critically injured jawan has been moved to Srinagar for advanced treatment, while others injured are being treated at the local military hospital.
"The injured paramilitary trooper, identified as Constable Daljit Kiran of 182 battalion of CRPF, has been shifted to hospital," the official said.
Of late, there has been a perceived increase in the incidents of militancy in South Kashmir region in recent months after the end of the summer unrest of 2016. Just days before this incident, three army soldiers and a civilian were killed in the neighbouring Shopian district as militants ambushed an Army patrol party. More then 29 security personnel have been killed, including some in natural calamities, just in the last two months.
The police said that around 100 locals have joined militant ranks in last one year and 59 of them joined after Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Muzaffar Wani was killed.
With inputs from IANS
"Desh ke gaddaron ko, goli maaro saalon ko." This is one of the many such incendiary slogans chanted by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) workers at a North Campus rally held on Thursday.
Go ahead! Nominate a Nathuram Godse amongst you to shoot them all, hang them at public squares, threaten rape. And you if you can't pull the trigger yourself, put a bounty on their head; just like a RSS worker did on Thursday when he announced a reward of Rs one crore for Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan's head.
But first, we need to decide who the real gaddars (traitors) of India are; who are the real enemies, of not just this great nation, but of humanity?
For starters, here is what President Pranab Mukherjee said on Thursday, on the idea of India and its educational institutions: "They must reverberate with creativity and freethinking. They should promote free exchange of views and free expression of thought,"
"We have celebrated diversity. We have never attempted to constrain it, any attempt to replace diversity with uniformity has failed," Mukherjee said at an event on Thursday. He went on to castigate the culture of intolerance in India.
In essence, the president reminded us that India was founded on principles of tolerance, diversity, creativity, free-thinking, freedom of expression and the right to dissent and debate.
So, who then is trying to destroy the basic tenets of the 'idea of India'? Who is muzzling free-thinking, denying fellow countrymen the right to speak freely, disagree and debate? Who is trying to silence independent voices with threats of rape, violence and by using the might of a pliant state?
Who is the real gaddar of India?
India doesn't get weakened when a 20-year-old college student, Gurmehar Kaur, rises above her personal loss, biases and hatred, and speaks up for peace; when she rightly points out that soldiers are killed-in-action because nations fight each other, caught in a vortex of violence and hatred, and not because of the enemy (in this case, Pakistan).
In fact, a nation becomes stronger when people like Kaur show their courage of conviction, stand up for peace and harmony, and fight for ideals and principles they hold close to heart. It shows that India still has people with a conscience, critical thinking and integrity, the pre-requisites for robust growth of humanity.
India gets weakened from within when pseudo-nationalists attack its founding principles like termites. When students resort to thuggery, to disallow others to express their opinion, proving how their minds are closed to new ideas and opinions and that their education and thus intellectual growth has stopped.
When chants like ''goli maaro saalon ko" replace civilised, nuanced debates; when doctored videos are used to hound rivals and to brand them as anti-nationals; when wielding a jhanda (National Flag) and shouting 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' become the defining traits of a nationalist; such tendencies become the real threat to India... their perpetrators are the real traitors.
Unfortunately, the current lot of 'traitors' is not just destroying India from within but also attacking the core values of civilisation. In their rabid fury, they are inflicting incalculable harm on principles of equality and justice the two ideas that shape free, fair and fearless societies.
During his speech, Mukherjee pointed out that the acid test of any society is its attitude towards women and children. "I do not consider a society or state to be civilised if its citizens' behaviour towards women is uncivilised. When we brutalize a woman, we wound the soul of our civilisation," he said.
Consider how these traitors to humanity treated two women during the recent debate in Delhi University. First, they denied Shehla Masood a platform to express her opinion. Then, when Kaur stood up against their goonda-ism, they trolled her, tried to silence her voice with rape threats and jokes mocking her ideals and her father's death.
The defining moment of this cacophony of traitors was the concerted attack by ministers and parliamentarians of the ruling dispensation, questioning her ability to think and speak up independently, comparing her with Dawood Ibrahim. So much for respecting a woman and her rights.
In an Indian Express report, Pratap Bhanu Mehta argues that the Right is actually subverting institutes of higher learning. He writes: "... there is the organised attempt to delegitimise what remains of the public university system. An organised pattern is emerging. Use the 'JNU pretext', as it is now called, to unleash the ABVP or, in some cases, university administrations, to harass, intimidate and engage in violence."
This, Mehta argues, is being done to create a conflict and then use it politically. Mehta fears the demise of the Central universities because of the way the Right is asserting itself.
The ABVP and its ideological mentors are attacking the core foundations of India diversity, debate, dissent and freedom. They are attacking the basic principles of civilisation, of treating women with respect and equality. And, by becoming a political tool, they are destroying the very system public universities they claim to protect.
Who then is the real traitor? Perhaps the ABVP should keep a few mirrors handy when it chants the next time: 'Desh ke gaddaron ko, goli maaro saalon ko'.
The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) does not support the creation of the export-credit agency, NBU Governor Valeriya Gontareva has said.
"You know that the National Bank did not support the creation of this agency, as we have capitalized state-run export-import bank [Ukreximbank], which can provide all support and guarantees to our exporters and work with our importers," she said at a press conference in Kyiv on Thursday.
She said that the memorandum of cooperation between Ukraine and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) does not give direct instructions on the issue.
"As far as I know the memorandum would have brief information about it: if the agency does not have capital and there were no sources to finance it, there is a recommendation not to start active work until it is decided how it will work," she said.
As reported, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on December 28, 2016 enacted bill providing for the aggressive exports expansion of Ukrainian manufacturers via insuring, guaranteeing and cheapening of exports crediting No. 2142a and envisaging the creation of the export-credit agency.
The export-credit agency will support exports of Ukrainian labor and services and goods made by processing industry under some foreign activity codes.
The bill describes the procedure for creating the agency, its structure, goals and key tasks. The agency will protect Ukrainian exporters from a risk of payment failures and financial losses related to the implementation of foreign economic contracts using insurance, reinsurance and guarantee tools.
The agency is created in the form of a public joint-stock company. The state in the person of the government is the founder and a shareholder in the agency with at least 50% plus one share of the share capital.
An army jawan who had been part of a sting operation in February criticising the 'sahayak' (orderly) system was found dead under mysterious conditions on Thursday in a barrack in Deolali Cantonment in Maharashtra.
A report in The Times of India said that 33-year-old Sahayak Roy Mathew's decomposed body was found hanging from the ceiling of an abandoned barrack outside the unit lines in Devlavi Cantonment. Doctors said that Mathew could have died three days ago.
CNN-News18 has further reported that the army has said that Mathew committed suicide.
Mathew had gone missing on 25 February, after which he was declared "Absent without leave" by the army and a
According to the Indian Army's official Statement, the suicide could have been prompted by the feeling of "guilt for letting down his superiors or conveying false impression to an unknown individual."
Mathew was among several jawans seen in a video which showed soldiers walking officers' dogs and taking their children to school.
Another report in Hindustan Times says that Mathew's family members suspected foul play in his death and have demanded a probe into his demise.
The distraught family has said that Roy was upset after his videos were played on media channels, as they demanded to know the exact circumstances that lead to his death.
He (Roy) called & said channels are playing my visuals & was crying;want to know what happened to him: Fini Roy, wife of soldier Roy Mathew pic.twitter.com/kGU24EzbVl ANI (@ANI_news) March 3, 2017
Don't have wealth or political influence,there's no one to help; want to know what happened to my son: Mathew, Father of soldier Roy Mathew pic.twitter.com/1zpY5ShEJT ANI (@ANI_news) March 3, 2017
However, the Army in its statement has denied any sort of pressure post the alleged sting operation, stating that the "identities of the Army personnel in the clipping were hidden... hence there is no question of any enquiry against the deceased."
The Army has however, lodged a complaint with the local police and ordered an inquiry into the circumstances leading to his death.
Mathew's death comes after a spate of videos released on social media by BSF, CRPF and other armed forces personnel that alleged poor working conditions and harassment.
The first video was released by BSF jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav on 9 January. His social media post on sub-standard food quality had triggered a controversy.
On 15 January, addressing a function organized on the occasion of Army Day, army chief General Bipin Rawat had warned that those using social media to air their grievances could face disciplinary action.
With inputs from PTI
On 27 May 2015, the Supreme Court of India in the case of Shabnam vs Union of India gave a ruling which would have far-reaching consequences in so far as the procedural aspects of awarding the death penalty are concerned. The apex court held that trial courts should not issue death warrants unless the convicts had exhausted all legal remedies available to them- an appeal to the high court, then to the Supreme Court, then again review and curative petitions before the top court, and finally, an appeal for clemency to the President of India.
However, despite this dictum, it appears that trial courts in India are handing out the death sentence in undue haste, and without according all due process rights to convicts. In five cases, trial courts issued the death warrant without according the convicts the opportunity to appeal to higher courts.
A death warrant is formally known as a warrant for execution of a sentence of death. Form No. 42 in the Second Schedule of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973 contains the form of the death warrant or black warrant. It is addressed to the superintendent of the relevant prison who is supposed to return the warrant to the court after certifying that the death sentence has been carried out.
Sections 413 and 414 of the CrPC state that upon the high court confirming a death sentence, the sessions court shall cause that order to be carried into effect by issuing a warrant. In practice, however, since an appeal lies to the Supreme Court against a death sentence, a sessions court would normally refrain from issuing a death warrant.
In case of Javed Khan, the Sessions Judge in Aurangabad issued a death warrant only because the High Court had enhanced his life sentence to one of death. In another, that of Singraha, the warrant was issued within days of his death sentence being confirmed by the Madhya Pradesh High Court, without giving him the chance to appeal to the Supreme Court.
These find mention in the latest report of the National Law University, Delhis Centre for the Death Penalty. The report gives all the details of death sentences in India in 2016, and shows that almost the twice the number of death sentences were awarded in that year than in 2015. The numbers stood at 136 for 2016 as opposed to 70 for 2015. The figures are alarming, because as per available data, between the years 2000 and 2015, a total of 1790 death sentences were awarded, bringing the annual average to approximately 119.
Rarest of Rare doctrine going unheeded?
As per the settled law laid down by the Supreme Court, the death penalty is to be awarded only in the rarest of rare cases. Courts are also to follow all necessary safeguards to ensure that capital sentences are only sparingly given- they should be the exception, not the norm. The issue of trial courts handing out a proliferation of death sentences becomes both significant and worrisome because not all of them are executed- an overwhelming number of cases result in complete acquittals or commutations to life terms. This is borne out by numbers.
In 2016, high courts acquitted 14 people, and commuted the sentences of 44. The numbers of acquittals and commutations for the Supreme Court stand at 3 and 7 respectively. Thus, the data shows that adherence to the apex courts dictum lies in shambles. The year 2016 comes third in the line of annual number of death sentences awarded- it was 186 in 2007, followed by 164 in 2005. With a total number of 397 persons on death row at the end of the year, surely, it is high time for remedying this shambolic state of affairs?
Houston: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has sent a personal message to 24-year-old Ian Grillot, who was injured while trying to intervene during a shooting in which an Indian techie was killed in Kansas, and wished him a speedy recovery.
The Indian Consul-General in Houston, Anupam Ray, met Grillot and his family yesterday at the University of Kansas Hospital and handed over the message from Swaraj.
"India salutes the heroism of Ian Grillot! Best wishes for speedy recovery," Ray wished Grillot on behalf of the minister and the people of India, KSHB-TV reported.
Grillot was released from the hospital on Tuesday. Ray also said that Sushma Swaraj has 7.3 million followers, who all conveyed their best wishes.
"We will stand with you, whatever you need," he said. Responding to this Grillot said, "I look forward to being able to go meet everybody." Grillot and his family are invited to India as soon as he is able to travel, according to a news release from the University of Kansas Health System.
Grillot was shot in hand last week when 51-year-old American navy veteran Adam Purinton, prior to opening fire, uttered racial slurs and yelled "get out of my country" at the two Indian victims.
Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla, 32, was killed while another Indian man and his colleague Alok Madasani was critically injured.
In a video from his hospital bed, Grillot had said: "I was just doing what anyone should have done for another human being. It's not about where he was from or his ethnicity."
Agartala: After traces of formalin were found in fish imported from Bangladesh, the Tripura government has banned imports from that country through its seven Land Customs Stations (LCSs), a minister said here on Friday.
Health and Revenue Minister Badal Choudhury said the preservative -- formalin or formaldehyde, mixed with water and used for preservation of biological specimens -- was found in fish imported from Bangladesh. It is dangerous for human consumption.
"Health officials have been asked to take stringent legal action against those using formalin and other illegal preservatives.
"The government has asked customs and other authorities to prevent the import of fish from Bangladesh through the seven LCSs, except the Agartala-Akhaura Integrated Check Post (ICP)," Choudhury told IANS.
The seven LCSs are in Agartala, Srimantapur, Khowaighat (western Tripura), Kamalpur, Old Raghnabazar (northern Tripura), Belonia and Sabroom (in southern Tripura).
Agartala-Akhaura ICP is the second-largest trading point along the India-Bangladesh border after Petrapole-Benapole land border in West Bengal.
"Since no adequate infrastructure and manpower is present at the seven LCSs, import of fish through these border points would be risky," he said.
Choudhary said that following media reports, Health Department officials had collected 40 fish samples from Agartala, out of which formalin was found in 11.
Of these 11 samples, five were collected from two main fish markets of Agartala and six from fish imported from Bangladesh," Choudhury said.
Formalin, a poisonous and anti-decomposition chemical agent, is used as an antiseptic, disinfectant and preservative in various items.
The minister said food safety officers are collecting samples randomly from markets and getting them tested at laboratories.
Under the Food Safety Security Act and Rules, 2011, anyone found guilty faces a penalty of Rs 1 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, or imprisonment, or both.
An official of the Industries and Commerce Department said that, on average, 25,644 kg of fish are imported daily from Bangladesh and 26,180 kg bought from outside the state, including from Andhra Pradesh.
"These fish imported from Bangladesh and brought from other states are being sold in Tripura markets without any lab tests," the official told IANS on condition of anonymity.
Tripura is surrounded by Bangladesh on three sides, making up for 85 percent of the state's 856-km international border.
However, there are no LCSs or border fencing in many areas on the India-Bangladesh border along the northeastern states of Tripura, Meghalaya (443 km), Mizoram (318 km) and Assam (263 km) due to which informal trade and smuggling flourishes.
"Informal trade leads to supply of imported fish which are a health hazard," said Dr Chandan Sarkar, working at the government-run GB Panth Hospital.
Kolkata: The West Bengal Assembly on Thursday passed a bill to regulate functioning of private health facilities, providing for up to three-year jail terms and trials under the IPC for offenders and fines up to Rs 50 lakh in case of death of patients due to medical negligence.
The West Bengal Clinical Establishments (Registration, Regulation and Transparency) Bill, 2017l, tabled by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Partha Chatterjee, was passed by voice vote, with the government rejecting the opposition demand that it be sent to the standing committee for scrutiny.
The government also turned down amendments moved by opposition members.
The legislation, aimed at bringing transparency, ending harassment of patients and checking medical negligence in private hospitals and nursing homes, also brings clinics, dispensaries and polyclinics under its ambit.
The bill makes it mandatory for private hospitals to pay compensations in case of medical negligence. Hospitals violating the new law will be liable to pay fine of Rs 10 lakh or more.
"If there is medical negligence then compensation will be given by the establishment. For minor damages, Rs 3 lakh, for big damages, Rs 5 lakh and in case of death, minimum Rs. 10 lakh. However, the compensation amount will not be more than Rs 50 lakh. This compensation will be given within six months," said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee while addressing the House on the bill.
The bill has the provision to set up a 13 member West Bengal Clinical Establishment Regulatory Commission to monitor activities of private hospitals.
The high-powered commission, to be headed by a sitting or former judge and having the status of a civil court, is empowered to summon both parties in case of a dispute and examine the case before passing an order.
The penal measures range between compensation and scrapping the licence of the physician/hospital. The commission may also put the offender behind bars up to three years. It can also order trying the offender under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) provisions if it deems fit.
Banerjee also said hospitals will not be allowed to order unnecessary tests.
"Acid attack and rape victims and emergency patients must be given proper and prompt treatment. Hospitals will not be allowed to charge more than the designated amount specified in package for treatment. If there is additional cost then, they must provide an estimate for the additional cost. That estimate will not go beyond a certain limit and that limit will be decided by the Commission," she said.
Whether registered or not registered, private medical set-ups will be brought under the purview of the new law, she said.
"Dead bodies will not be held up. Hospitals will have to set up public grievances cell. FD certificate or PAN cards will not be taken up for submission by hospitals.
"Help desks must be set up to assist families of patients regarding any information about the bill or treatment. E-prescription systems have to be put in place. While discharging patients, proper documents will have to be given to the patient," she said.
Hospitals with more than 100 beds must start fair price medicine shops.
"If a hospital violates the new law, then a fine of Rs 10 lakh or more will be slapped," she said.
Hospitals are mandated to declare bed charges, ICU charges and package costs that can't be altered.
Mumbai: With just a day left for filing of nominations for the Mumbai mayoral poll, a senior state BJP leader on Friday said he is confident that his party and Shiv Sena will come together to govern India's richest civic body. "I am 200 percent sure that BJP and Shiv Sena will join hands in BMC," Maharashtra's Revenue Minister Chandrakant Patil said. "A formula which is acceptable to both the parties will be worked out," he said.
Patil's remarks came ahead of a crucial meeting of the state BJP core committee later on Friday where the party is expected to decide its strategy for the mayoral poll.
The minister had recently said his party and Shiv Sena are natural allies who should put aside their differences and join hands once again to rule the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), in the backdrop of the election to the civic body throwing up a fractured mandate. Patil had also said that there was no threat to the BJP-led government in the state.
The minister had recently said his party and Shiv Sena are natural allies who should put aside their differences and join hands once again to rule the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), in the backdrop of the election to the civic body throwing up a fractured mandate. Patil had also said that there was no threat to the BJP-led government in the state.
Suspense has been mounting over who will be the next Mayor of Mumbai, with the BJP and Sena eyeing the prestigious post though both the parties do not have majority of their own in the just elected House. The elections to the 227-member BMC threw up a hung verdict, with the Sena winning 84 seats and the BJP 82.
The Congress has said it will contest the mayoral poll in BMC, which has an annual budget of over Rs 37,000 crore. Ahead of the 21 February elections, the BJP and Shiv Sena split in BMC, which they had been ruling together for the last over two decades. However, they continue to be ruling allies at the state level and also at the Centre.
On Thursday, Kerala's Kannur traveled to Delhi University. Hoardings with photographs of BJP and RSS activists killed or maimed allegedly by CPM activists dotted North campus. Without a doubt, they were disturbing pictures but the intention was precisely that. To show that Kannur was the Wild West of Kerala. The occasion was the ABVP march to protest against it being blamed for the violence in Ramjas college last week and what it calls the anti-national utterances by Leftist groups.
On Friday, Kerala will be in Hyderabad where a mass protest has been organised against the "CPM-sponsored violence on nationalists in Kerala". It is obvious that the BJP has found in the nearly five decade old political violence of Kannur, an opportunity to hit several birds with one stone.
The beginning has already been made on social media. Given that universities, the new akhadas of confrontation, have largely been a right wing versus Left battle be it at JNU, Delhi University or Hyderabad Central University, any voice that is perceived as pro-Left is greeted with the "What about Kannur?" rhetorical question. The bloodied land of Malabar, the BJP reckons, can be showcased to establish that the party and its affiliate organisations are under attack.
Bringing Kerala to Delhi has worked in terms of shock value, especially with people outside the southern state largely ignorant about the realities on the ground and the history of political killings. A few years ago, I remember a news editor in Delhi asking me if Kannur, Coonoor and Kurnool are indeed different places and wondered why south Indians gave similar sounding names to their towns!
How does making India aware about Kannur help the BJP? On the face of it, it would seem strange for the BJP to give so much important to the Left, given it is a political force on the decline, with no presence beyond Kerala, Bengal and Tripura.
One, the right-wing is looking at the youth, the gen-next voters in the universities. It gives the ABVP an opening to make its template more acceptable to the younger crowd. To take on the more liberal way of thinking of the Left, the ABVP wants to push its brand of nationalism as an alternative. Where the dos and don'ts are clearly defined and wrapped in the tricolour, with the armed forces as a shield. It is this idea of India that the right wing wants to convey, is being targeted brutally by the Left in Kerala.
Two, it helps make inroads into the opposition space in Kerala at a time when the Congress is in comatose state after its defeat in the assembly polls last May. The BJP admittedly has a long way to go from the lone MLA it has in the Kerala assembly now but it would hope that projecting itself as the victim and the Reds as the aggressor, would help politically.
In April last year, when I was touring Kannur, a top cop in the district told me how when a CPM activist gets killed, only the state media picks up the news. But when a BJP activist is the victim, it invariably becomes a national issue because the saffron party projects as if only it is being targeted.
The facts on the ground are very different. It has been a scoreboard culture since 1968 when the first killing that of a RSS activist V Ramakrishnan took place. Over the years, without fail, a killing on one side is avenged within hours with a killing on the other side of the political divide. The CPM versus RSS rivalry in Kannur has seen over 250 people being killed and several hundreds maimed for life, since the late 1960s.
Professor T Sasidharan, who teaches political science at Kannur's Sree Narayana College has researched extensively on the political violence in the district and says the conflict arises out of Kannur being a CPM stronghold and the RSS attempt to capture it. Senseless as the murders may sound, for the party-worshipping brainwashed cadre of both outfits, revenge killings are seen as adding sheen to an activist's CV.
BJP Kerala general secretary K Surendran alluded to it while addressing a BJP function in Mangalore last week, pointing out that his party has retaliated to every murder of its workers by the CPM in Kerala. The right wing protest against Vijayan's visit to Mangalore was an attempt to broaden the geographical sweep of its political battle against the Left.
As if on cue, emerged the video of Madhya Pradesh-based RSS activist Kundan Chandrawat who announced a reward of Rs one crore to anyone who beheaded Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. While the RSS distanced itself from Chandrawat's remark, the BJP leaders from Madhya Pradesh saw it as an expression of the right wing anger and anguish at what was happening in Kerala.
Not that the BJP's upping the ante has had any effect on the ground. On Thursday night, country bombs were hurled at the RSS office in Nadapuram in Kozhikode district, injuring three activists. The needle of suspicion, as always, points to the CPM.
The political violence in Kannur is not a one-way street and both sides have displayed their worst side in the bloody war. It is not enough for Vijayan to blame the BJP-RSS alone. As chief minister, he is expected to behave like a statesman and get his party to engage in peace talks. But then, the political calculation in Kerala is that a BJP on the ascent will help divide the anti-Left vote. Which is why there is little attempt to ensure no more lives are lost at the altar of selfish politics.
At the RSS office in Thalassery, Sangh member N Suraj showed me the wall on which were mounted photographs of all activists who were hacked to death by CPM. This is the martyrs gallery, which the BJP is now showcasing to portray Vijayan as a murderer. The BJP believes it is targeted more when the LDF comes to power, accusing the police force of being subservient to the CPM leadership.
The CPM pleads innocence, a claim that rings hollow. Since the LDF came to power last year, the Kannur model of revenge politics has been replicated in other districts by both groups. If left unchecked, this will be Kerala's death knell. By attempting to reap political benefits in the killing fields of Kerala, the leadership of the two political parties have ensured that only they stand to gain by encouraging this dark underbelly of political violence.
The spurt in threats from Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, even from places outside Kerala, in the wake of a major move to end the political violence in Kannur district has raised eyebrows in the state.
The latest threat to Pinarayi has come from a little known RSS leader in Madhya Pradesh. While the RSS units in various parts of the country tried only to block the Kerala leader, Kundan Chandrawat who is the RSS saha prachar pramukh (joint publicity chief) at Ujjain, has gone a step further and called for his head.
Holding Pinarayi responsible for the killings of more than 300 RSS pracharaks and activists in the state, the RSS leader announced a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head and promised to offer a garland of three lakh human skulls to Bharat Mata in revenge while speaking at a public function in the temple town on Wednesday.
Many believe there was no ground for such a hyperactive reaction at this juncture when both the warring sides had resolved to give peace a chance in the violence-ridden district. There have been no major incidents of violence after the all-party peace meet convened by Vijayan on 14 February who had decided to make sincere efforts to end the three decades-old political hostility between the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Sangh Parivar.
RSS state chief Gopalan Kutty Master was all praise for the efforts made by Pinarayi for restoring peace in Kannur. State BJP general secretary AN Radhakrishnan also felt that the outburst of Chandrawat was uncalled for.
What then prompted the RSS leader to vitiate the atmosphere by making a Taliban-style speech? Political observers see more to the threat than meets the eye. While a section of the analysts view the threat as a clear indication that the Sangh Parivar does not want peace to prevail in Kannur, another smells a conspiracy behind the concerted personal attacks against the chief minister.
The RSS has grown in Kannur, the cradle of the communist movement in Kerala, by taking on the CPM for more than three decades. RSS leaders think that they can maintain the growth only by encountering the CPM so that there are no incursions into their bastions. Therefore, they dont want to drop arms until the hard-fought gains are translated into votes," says IV Babu, senior journalist from Kannur.
Even if the parties want peace, the criminals will not allow it since they have reaped huge benefits from the cycle of violence that began in the district in eighties. The criminals promoted by the parties have transformed themselves into mafias and are controlling not only politics but also economic and social spheres, Babu told Firstpost.
Leftist writer and thinker Umesh Babu agrees with him. He said there is a huge infrastructure for criminal activities in the district. Permanent peace in Kannur will not be possible without demolishing this infrastructure. Umesh told Firstpost that he was doubtful whether it will be possible in the near future.
However, he sees a deal behind the onslaught on the chief minister from the RSS outside Kerala. Umesh, who was active in the CPM till 2007, believes that it has got a lot to do with the SNC Lavalin corruption case hanging over Pinarayis head. He suspects the hand of the BJP government at the Centre behind the repeated adjournment of the hearing on a revision petition filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Kerala High Court challenging the CBI court verdict discharging Pinarayi and six others.
The hearing was adjourned thrice due to the absence of the CBI counsel in the last three months. I firmly believe that the CBI counsel was keeping away from the court because of a tacit understanding between the chief minister and the BJP government. There is every ground to believe that the CBI is giving Pinarayi time to influence the judge, says Umesh.
The CBI case was that Pinarayi, while serving as electricity minister from May 1996 to October 1998, along with the other accused, hatched a criminal conspiracy to award the contract for the renovation and modernisation of three power plants to SNC-Lavalin at an exorbitant cost resulting in a loss of Rs 273 crores to the state exchequer.
The case may mar the career of the Marxist leader if the high court orders a re-trial in the case. There is a strong possibility for the same since the Thiruvananthapuram CBI court had discharged him without a hearing of the final CBI report, says the writer.
Umesh, who was sacked from Purogamana Kalasahitya Sangham (Progressive Artists and Writers Forum), a highly influential body of Marxist writers and thinkers, for his sarcastic comments against certain party leaders alleged that Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was helping him in averting the legal setback.
The BJP leader is using the RSS to cover up the deal. The personal attack on the chief minister is to show that the BJP is fighting him nationally. Actually, they are not. The recent protests against him fall into a pattern. It is an orchestrated action to save Pinarayi, says Umesh.
He said that the protests against Pinarayi were spearheaded by little known RSS leaders, who had no knowledge of the ground realities in the state. Protests were mounted against him when he visited Delhi, Bhopal, Bengaluru and Mangalore, where the CPM is not at all a threat to the BJP.
The RSS in Mangalore had observed a hartal and threatened to block Pinarayi when he visited the city for addressing a peace rally for communal harmony organised by the CPM barely 10 days after the all party peace meet in Kannur. When Pinarayi defied the threat with the help of the Congress government in Karnataka, the RSS activists unleashed violence in several parts of the district.
Incidentally, a petition filed in the high court against the frequent postponement of the hearing has also alleged collusion between the lawyers representing the chief minister, the CBI and the central government. The petitioner contends that such postponement was against a Supreme Court ruling that stipulates criminal cases involving ministers and Members of Parliament and Legislature should be decided expeditiously.
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for 9 March. The CBI court had split the chargesheet in the case, leaving the SNC Lavalin and its representatives based in Canada, and discharged Pinarayi after he submitted that the case going on since 1996 had affected his political career.
Umesh feels that the double play by the BJP government was also evident in the case related to the brutal murder of CPM rebel leader TP Chandrashekharan. He said that the BJP government was sitting on the demand of the slain leaders widow K Rema for a CBI probe into the conspiracy in the murder despite assurances from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath Singh.
Rema, who had met both the leaders personally, believes that her husband was eliminated under a conspiracy hatched by senior CPM leaders, including Pinarayi. Chandrashekharan was hacked to death after he floated a parallel movement following his expulsion from CPM for questioning its ideological deviations.
Though 11 persons, including three CPM leaders, have been sentenced to life imprisonment in January 2014 in connection with murder, Rema feels that she will not get justice until those involved in the conspiracy are brought to the book.
Curiously, some of the convicts figure in the list of 1,750 prisoners sought to be released prematurely. Governor P Sathashivam has detained the list by raising several objections against the selection of the prisoners for remission.
Ujjain (MP): RSS sacked its functionary Kundan Chandravat who announced Rs 1 crore bounty on Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's head. Kundan Chandravat had retracted his statement after it drew condemnation from various quarters including the Sangh. Chandravat, a former RSS Sah Prachar Pramukh in Ujjain, claimed he got some phone calls from Kerala threatening to kill him and was being targetted in social media.
Sangh ka nirnaya mujhe maanya hai. Mai Sangh ka swayamsewak hoon aur hamesha rahunga: K Chandrawat on question of his expulsion from RSS pic.twitter.com/zU9KGnipV4 ANI (@ANI_news) March 3, 2017
"I was pained on the issue of murders of Swayamsevaks and therefore made an emotional statement. I retract it (statement) and express my regret," Chandravat said in a statement late last night. "I also got some phone calls from Kerala in which an unidentified caller threatened to kill me," he claimed. Chandravat, in a meeting here, had announced the bounty to avenge the killing of RSS workers in Kerala, allegedly by CPI-M workers. His speech sparked an uproar, drawing condemnation from the RSS, the CPI(M) and the Congress on Thursday.
In a video, which went viral, Chandravat is purportedly seen saying that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is behind the killing of RSS workers there and he will pay Rs 1 crore to anyone who beheads him and brings his (Vijayan's) head to him. He also claimed that 300 innocent people belonging to the RSS had been killed but the Kerala chief minister was turning a blind eye. The RSS was quick to condemn Chandravat's statement, stating the organisation did not believe in violence.
"The RSS strongly condemns such statement. The Sangh does not believe in violence. But we will continue to protest against attacks on our workers in Kerala in a democratic and peaceful manner," RSS national 'Sah Prachar Pramukh' (Joint Chief of Publicity) J Nandakumar had told PTI in Delhi. Vijayan, however, dismissed the threat to his life, saying such calls would not prevent him from travelling around, while Kerala's ruling CPI(M) and Congress sought the arrest of Chandravat for his outrageous comments.
Kerala has been witnessing a series of political clashes between the cadres of BJP-RSS and the ruling CPI(M), especially in the northern Kannur district from where Vijayan hails, for a long time. Both parties have blamed each other for the cycle of violence which has claimed several lives on both sides. (with inputs from the PTI)
National joint-stock company Naftogaz Ukrainy believes that the switch of its large debtor state-run Odesa Port-Side Plant to the tolling scheme is unlawful. The company is ready to challenge the step in court, Naftogaz Board Chairman Andriy Kobolev has said.
"This violates Ukrainian legislation and gas market regulation. We would have to appeal to court against the plant and the gas supplier/leaser/partner in the tolling scheme," he wrote in comments to the post of Head of the State Property Fund (SPF) of Ukraine Ihor Bilous on his Facebook page about the resumption of the operation of the plant using the tolling scheme.
The partner in the launch of the plant ERU Trading LLC selected by the fund is ready to discuss these claims of Naftogaz Ukrainy in court, the co-owner of ERU Trading Andriy Favorov wrote. The fund and the plant have not yet presented their position on the issue.
The Kerala state Assembly witnessed unprecedented scenes midway the finance minister's presentation of the state budget on Friday, as the Opposition led by the Congress party alleged that the budget had been leaked to television channels and social media.
What seemed like a usual day in the office for Finance Minister Thomas Isaac in the Assembly was interrupted by opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala, who was seen waving papers which he claimed were leaked excerpts of the budget before Isaac could even read it.
As chaos reigned inside the House, the minister's budget speech had to be stopped and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan assured the House that an inquiry would be conducted into allegations of a leak. Vijayan has even asked the chief secretary to immediately conduct an inquiry into the leak.
An agitated opposition staged a walk-out from the Assembly, amid demands for the resignation of Finance Minister Isaac, even as he continued with his speech. What then took place was perhaps unprecedented in the history of Kerala's legislative Assembly.
Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala read out what he called a "parallel budget" in the media room, which was telecast live by the Malayalam media along with the finance minister's speech on a split screen, putting the state government in an embarrassing position.
"We received these parts of the budget even before the finance minister had read it out. How can that happen, if someone hadn't leaked it out from his own office. The budget has a sanctity and that has been lost today," said Chennithala.
It was Chennithala's office that first flagged off the suspicion that those parts which are yet to read by the finance minister had been leaked. At the crux of the issue is an email sent allegedly from the finance minister's office at 10.26 am, an hour and 26 minutes into Isaac's speech.
Though the government claims that only the highlights were out and not the entire budget proposals, it was a 15-page PDF document that went to media houses, and contained every scheme that the government was proposing and their respective costs.
The media soon flashed it across television channels and the opposition pounced. More damaging perhaps for the Pinarayi Vijayan government is the fact that the PDF also revealed the figures from the budget. The numbers pertaining to total revenue, capital expenditure, revenue and fiscal deficit were all out in the open even before the minister had the time to say it himself on the floor of the house.
The only figures missing in the document were the tax proposals, which would have been the last nail in the LDF coffin. A visibly flustered finance minister soon cut his speech short, reading out only the major portions after taking permission from the speaker to skip various paragraphs of the budget.
"The budget as such has not been leaked. What came out in the media is a copy of the highlights section, which was prepared to be given to the media after the budget presentation. This was given in advance this time round, which should not have happened. This needs to be investigated," said Thomas Isaac in a press statement after the session.
Vijayan is reported to be furious at the turn of events that soured an otherwise "people centric" budget, which was also the first full-fledged budget his government has prepared after coming to power in May 2016.
Sources close to the Chief Minister's Office say that heads are likely to roll very soon and even the removal of the finance minister cannot be ruled out at this point. Meanwhile, the opposition has registered an official complaint with the Speaker of the House, who has assured them of a thorough probe into the issue. The opposition would also be meeting the governor over the issue.
Protest rallies have been planned across the state by the Congress, the BJP and the Indian Union Muslim League in the coming days. The state Assembly is also expected to witness uproarious scenes as the budget proposals would be taken up for discussion in days to come.
New Delhi: As many as 29 crorepati candidates are in the fray for the second phase of Manipur assembly elections to be held on 8 March, says a latest report.
Manipur Election Watch and the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) have analysed the self-sworn affidavits of all 98 candidates from 13 political parties, including five national parties, four state parties, four unrecognised parties and nine independent candidates who are contesting in the second phase of Manipur assembly elections to be held on 8 March, 2017.
According to the report, out of the 98 candidates analysed, 29 are crorepatis.
Among party wise crorepati candidates, Delhi-based ADR said that 10 of 22 fielded by INC, 8 of 22 from BJP, one of seven from NPP, five of 11 from Naga Peoples Front, one of four from Manipur National Democratic Front and two Independent candidates have declared assets worth more than Rs one crore.
The average assets per candidate contesting is Rs 1.33 crore, it added.
Among major parties, the average assets per candidate for 22 INC candidates is Rs 3.11 crore, 22 BJP candidates (Rs 1.29 crore), 7 NPP candidates (Rs 38.02 lakh), 5 LJP candidates (Rs 37.58 lakh), 6 AITC candidates (Rs 6.97 lakh), 11 Naga Peoples Front (Rs 90.37 lakh), 2 CPI candidates (Rs 24.25 lakh) and 9 Independent candidates (Rs 1.40 crore), it added.
The top five richest candidates contesting in the second phase are Alfred Kanngam S Arthur of INC with total assets worth over Rs 36 crore followed by Independent R Haba Pao (Rs 8 crore), Mayanglambam Rameshwar Singh of BJP (Rs 6 crore), INC's Jangamlung Panmei (Rs 5 crore) and Moirangthem Okendro also from INC (Rs 5 crore).
A total of 11 out of the 98 candidates have not declared their PAN details.
Eleven candidates have declared total annual income of more than Rs 15 lakh. Kangujam Ranjit Singh of INC has total income of over Rs 34 lakh, while that of Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh has over Rs 25 lakh, the report by the think-tank said.
Besides, out of the 98 candidates analysed, only one has declared criminal cases against himself.
On the education details of candidates, the report said that 24 have declared their qualification to be between 5th pass and 12th pass, while 72 having a qualification of graduate and above. One candidate has declared himself as just literate.
A total of 46 candidates have declared their age to be between 25 and 50 years, while 52 between 51 and 80 years.
In the second phase of Manipur assembly election this year, 4 women candidates are contesting, the report added.
Imphal: Election campaign for the first phase election of the 11th Manipur Legislative Assembly officially came to end on Thursday. The first phase of the election will be held in 38 assembly constituencies located in the districts of Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi and Phezerol districts.
A total of 168 candidates is in the fray for the first phase election. Among these candidates, six are women.
The total number of voters who can exercise their franchise in the first phase is 11,19,271, among whom 5,75,221 are women. The Election Commission had established 1,487 polling stations in the 38 assembly constituencies.
In this first phase election, BJP is fielding candidates in all the 38 assembly constituencies while the ruling Congress could field only in 37 seats.
One of the oldest regional parties of the state, Manipur Peoples Party which had even form a government in the state, this time could field only 13 candidates. Lok Jansakti Party, which has a legislator in the current Assembly is fielding candidates in 12 Assembly constituencies. The Trinamool Congress has fielded candidates in 10 Assembly constituencies while Manipur National Democratic Front has fielded candidates in 10 assembly constituencies. The North East India Democratic Party has fielded candidates in eight Assembly constituencies in this phase of the poll. Irom Chanu Sharmilas political party Peoples' Resurgence and Justice Alliance is also contesting in three assembly constituencies. However, only one candidate will fight in the first phase. Eighteen candidates are fighting the election as independent candidates in the first phase.
Among the candidates contesting in this phase of the poll is Congress candidate Th. Lokeshwar of Khundrakpam Assembly Constituency, who is also the speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly. Other Congress ministers, I Hemochandra of Singjamei Assembly constituency, Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee president TN Haokip, Public Works Minister KH Ratankumar, Commerce and Industries Minister K Govindas, IFCD Minister Ngamthang Haokip and Social Welfare Minister AK Mirabai, who is also one among the two lady candidates of
Congress party.
Among the BJP candidates, some of the prominent figures contesting in this phase are former Union minister Th Chaoba, former minister Y Erabot, former minister N Biren, former chairman of the HAC V Hankhalien, veteran politician Okram Joy.
Former Minister in the Okram Ibobi Singh-led Congress government Phunzathang Tonsing of Churachandpur assembly constituency, who had joined the NPP after his name has been announced as Congress candidate is also contesting as NPP candidate from the same assembly constituency. Former minister L Jayentakumar of Keishamthong Assembly constituency who was denied Congress ticket is also contesting as an NPP candidate.
The election is billed as a major test for the Okram Ibobi Singh-led Congress government in the state which has been in power for the last 15 years.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh were the star campaigners in the first phase, all of whom addressed multiple rallies.
During campaigning, there were bitter exchanges between the Congress and the BJP over the ongoing economic blockade in the state and the Naga Peace Accord.
The Congress accused the BJP of "compromising with the territorial integrity" of Manipur, an allegation the saffron party has vociferously denied.
The Naga Peace Accord, also called the "framework agreement", was signed between the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) and the Centre in August 2015.
The state has been saddled with an indefinite economic blockade since 1 November 2016, imposed by the United Naga Council, causing immense hardship to the people as the supply of essential commodities, especially fuel, in the land-locked state has choked.
The blockade has been imposed on Manipur's "lifelines" national highways 2 and 37, in protest against the state government's decision to carve out seven new districts from the existing ones.
The blockade has become a major poll plank in the north-eastern state.
The second and final phase of the Assembly polls is scheduled on 8 March and the results will be declared on 11 March.
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Autorickshaw rally for Congress party in Thoubal district, Manipur. The state goes to polls on 4 and 8 March.
Home Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking in Manipur ahead of the Assembly polls, accused the Congress and Chief Minister Okram Singh Ibobi of creating confusion and vowed that the territorial integrity of Manipur would not be affected. Singh said that there was no law and order situation in Manipur and the major evil was the corruption by the Congress. Manipur goes to the polls on 4 and 8 March.
The BJP has been on a tear in Manipur, on the last day of campaigning before the first phase of polling. Campaigning in Manipur officially ends at 3 pm.
Activists of Kangleipak Students Association on Thursday, demanding justice for extra-judicial killings in Manipur, burned effigies of Manipur Chief Minster Okram Ibobi Singh, Addl SP AK Jaljit and ex DGP Y Joykumark on Thursday. The Kangleipak Students Association (KSA) is demanding the repeal of Afspa and justice for fake encounter cases, including the 23 July, 2009 case, in which a pregnant woman and a former PLA militant were killed in broad daylight. On Wednesday, a group of irate student activists belonging to the association allegedly vandalised the state unit office of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) situated in the heart of Imphal city after being denied a meeting with BJP leaders.
The 33-year-old Harvard-educated Erendro Leichombam, was attacked by unknown people in Manipur on the day of the first phase of polls in the state. This US-returned former World Bank Fellow, who also served in the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is the convener of People's Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA), a party started by Irom Sharmila. Trained in Economics at the Soka University of America and in Mathematics at the University of California, Irvine, Erendro refused to live the life of an NRI and joined Irom Sharmila's party to bring about a social change in his home state.
Over 80 percent voter turnout was recorded in the first phase of polling in Manipur in 38 constituencies spread across six districts in the hill state. Officials said the final figure would go higher as this was only the preliminary report at 3 pm when polling officially ended. The second and final phase of polling will be held on 8 March.
The second and final phase of polling will be held on 8 March.
Haokip also said he was confident of the Congress winning 40 seats in Manipur Assembly polls. The second and final phase of polling will be held on 8 March.
State unit Congress president TN Haokip has said that the BJP and the United Naga Council are the two faces of the same coin.
A troop of 25 Assam Rifles apprehended four Kuki National Front (P) militants at Churachandpur on early Sunday morning. The militants were nabbed at 5.30 am. Two AK-56 rifles, two pistols, four cell phones and 148 rounds were recovered during the counter-insurgency operation. The militants were then handed over to the Churachandpur police.
HuffPost-CVoter poll has predicted that the Congress will win fewer seats than the BJP in Manipur. According to the poll, the BJP's voteshare in the state will see a huge increasefrom 2.1 percent in 2012 to 32.1 percent in this electionmeanwhile, the Congress' voteshare is estimated to fall from 42.4 percent in 2012 to 31.3 percent.
At least six persons including four women sustained injury in an IED blast near Kasturi Bridge in the hear of Imphal city on Wednesday evening at about 5.40 pm as the last phase Manipur polls ended. The police said that the two women among the five injured in the blast, which took place in the Kasturi Thong area in Imphal, were admitted to the Regional Institute of Medical Science, a government hospital.
Manipur unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to file a counter-FIR against the State Election Commission (SEC) for "mentally harassing" the party's office bearers, and for allegedly creating confusion with regards to advertisements that were published in local dailies in Imphal, Manipur, on 3 March.
There was tight security at the polling stations to ensure that there was no untoward incident.
Voters stand in queues at a polling booth in Manipur. PTIVoters stand in queues at a polling booth in Manipur. PTI State Chief Election Officer Vivek Kumar Dewangan disclosed that the repolls were being held as per directives of the Election Commission.
Peaceful repolls were reported in 34 polling stations in eight districts of Manipur on Thursday.
Voter turnout of 67% recorded till 1 pm in second & final phase of voting in #ManipurElection2017 pic.twitter.com/1QXIUaMmve
Polling ends at 3 pm in the second and last phase of #ManipurElection2017 pic.twitter.com/miuhmwwktJ
State Chief Electoral Officer VK Dewangan has ordered repoll in 34 polling stations which went to the hustings in the first phase on 4 March. The re-poll will take place on 9 March from 7am till 3pm in the 34 polling stations. CEO Manipur Vivekumar Dewangan said re-polling would be held in five polling stations of Andro AC, one each in Uripok, Saikot and Singhat AC, 12 in Saikul, three in Saitu, six in Thanlon and five in Henglep.
At least six persons including four women sustained injury in an IED blast near Kasturi Bridge in the hear of Imphal city on Wednesday evening at about 5.40 pm as the last phase Manipur polls ended. The police said that the two women among the five injured in the blast, which took place in the Kasturi Thong area in Imphal, were admitted to the Regional Institute of Medical Science, a government hospital.
Manipur unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to file a counter-FIR against the State Election Commission (SEC) for "mentally harassing" the party's office bearers, and for allegedly creating confusion with regards to advertisements that were published in local dailies in Imphal, Manipur, on 3 March.
There was tight security at the polling stations to ensure that there was no untoward incident.
Voters stand in queues at a polling booth in Manipur. PTIVoters stand in queues at a polling booth in Manipur. PTI State Chief Election Officer Vivek Kumar Dewangan disclosed that the repolls were being held as per directives of the Election Commission.
Peaceful repolls were reported in 34 polling stations in eight districts of Manipur on Thursday.
Elections in Manipur will be held in two phases on 4 March and 8 March with the results being declared on 11 March. Representatives from 60 constituencies will be elected.
The previous Assembly election, held in 2012, resulted in a landslide victory for the Congress, giving them 42 seats and allowing Okram Ibobi Singh to be re-elected as chief minister for an unprecedented third consecutive term.
While Manipur has been a Congress stronghold for over a decade, thanks to the leadership of Ibobi, a savvy political operator, the BJP has been upbeat about its chances, buoyed undoubtedly by its success in last year's Assam elections. All eyes are also on Irom Sharmila, who shocked many political observers by giving up her 16-year fast against the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (Afspa), and decided to enter politics.
Manipur's Iron Lady has formed the People's Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA) and will be taking on the chief minister in his own den Thoubal constituency only time will tell if this is a masterstroke or a blunder.
Sharmila, while announcing her decision, had said: "During his 15 years of leadership he has not done anything to repeal Afspa. Since I realise that no politician shall repeal it, I am planning to contest the election, become the chief minister and repeal it."
Here are some quick facts about the state:
Number of Parliamentary Constituencies: 2
Number of Assembly Constituencies: 60
The present ruling party: Indian National Congress
Opposition Party: Trinamool Congress
Chief Minister: Okram Ibobi Singh
Governor: Dr. Najma A. Heptulla
Chief Electoral Officer: Oinam Nabakishore Singh
Political Parties in Manipur
The Indian National Congress (INC)
The Bharatiya Janata Party
The Rashtriya Janata Dal
The Nationalist Congress Party
The main regional political parties are :
Democratic Revolutionary Peoples Party
Manipur State Congress party
Lok Jan Shakti Party
All India Trinamool Congress
Manipur People's Party (MPP)
Federal Party of Manipur
Manipur National Conference
Naga People's Front
National People's Party (India)
Nikhil Manipuri MahasabhaManipur Assembly Election 2017
Manipur, a state strife with communal conflicts and political violence, goes to polls on 4 and 8 March. Issues like economic blockade, Afspa and the anti-incumbency wave are likely to impact the poll outcome.
The major players in the state are the ruling Congress, BJP, Naga People's Front (NPF), Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Irom Sharmila's Peoples' Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA).
The state, which has the country's smallest population after Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, mainly comprises of three major communities: Meitei, Naga and Kuki. The three lived side by side for centuries and developed their heritage in parallel within their respective ethno-social boundaries. But today they engage in what can be loosely termed as tribal politics.
While most Nagas are Christians and Meiteis Hindu, their religion is not the talking point this election. So how does this diverse electorate decide upon a government, and which political party holds court with which tribe?
To understand this dynamics better, let's start with the geographical placement of the state.
Geographical location and division of states
Geographically, the state of Manipur is divided into two distinct parts the hills and the valley. The Nagas reside in the hills, the Meiteis in the valley. Between the hills and the valley, there are total 16 districts, seven of which were recently created by the Ibobi government (for political gains). The nine existing districts are Bishnupur, Thoubal, Imphal East, Imphal West, Chandel, Churachendpur, Senapati, Tamenglong and Ukhrul. The new districts are: Kangpokpi, Tengnoupal, Pherzawl, Noney, Kamjong, Jiribam and Kakching which are carved out of the existing districts.
Manipur is a land-locked state and shares its boundaries with three other states Nagaland, Assam and Mizoram and with Myanmar. The hill districts of Senapati and Tamenglong which have a greater population of the Naga community share their boundary with Nagaland. Tamenglong also shares its boundaries with Assam. Churachendpur is the only district which has proximity to Mizoram whereas Ukhrul and Chandel are the gateway to Myanmar.
Manipur has a population of around 2.3 million, majority of which are Meiteis living in the valley. The rest of the population is divided into Nagas, Kukis, Komrem and Meitei Pangal (Muslims).
Of the 60 seats in the state, 40 are in the hills and 20 are in the valley, hence the major political parties are trying to maintain a balancing act wooing the Nagas and the Meiteis.
Let's take a look at which tribe favours what party:
Meiteis: With a population of over 1.3 million, Meitei is the oldest tribe of Manipur, in fact the state was once known as Mitei-Leipak. According to 1891 census, the Meiteis were recorded as a forest tribe and they mainly inhabit the valley, although they have presence in some of the hill districts too. Meiteis is not a recognised Scheduled Tribe by India's Constitution, although they are wrongly categorised as tribe by the outsiders.
This indigenous tribe was converted into Hinduism in the 18th century, which is why a suffix of Devi/Singh is enforced to their names, at least by mainland India.
Politics of the valley
According to experts, the main political battle in the valley is between Congress and the BJP. Okram Ibobi Singh, the current chief minister of the state who has served three terms, is a Meitei and belongs to the Congress.
Since most of the Meiteis are confined to the valley, they have in the past held protests, demanding promulgation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in the state.
The ILP a system introduced by the British and already existent in Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland protects tribal people by preventing 'outsiders' from buying land or settling in their area.
The Meitei wanted the ILP to be introduced in the state to prevent unrestricted entry of 'outsiders'. One of their major grievance was that the they could never buy Naga land in the hills but that was not the case for their land.
During the Meitei protest, schools were shut for weeks, prices of basic commodities rose and the streets were filled with violent protesters. Witnessing this scene, the Manipur Assembly passed three bills aimed at giving more rights to indigenous groups who accuse "outsiders" of taking their land and jobs.
That eased the Meiteis, but upset the Nagas and Kukis, and hence a visible divide between the communities is visible.
The other tribes have often taken up arms to protest against the special treatment Meiteis get from the state government. Hence in all likelihood, the Meiteis of the valley are in support of the Congress government, despite the anti-incumbency.
With BJP's entry in the state, questions are raised whether the Hindu Meiteis will be swept away by the Modi wave. Too many Congress leaders have already jumped ship and alleged themselves to BJP, however, experts believe that the Meiteis still view the newcomers BJP with suspicion.
According to Firstpost writer Seema Guha, the Hindu Meiteis see the BJP as backing the Christian tribes living in the sparsely populated hill areas of the state. This is because of the Naga Peoples Front (NPF) ruling Nagaland is aligned to the BJP. Meiteis are also wary of the BJP giving in to the NSCN-IM demands.
However, the RSS-BJP workers have made inroads in the state with their work with the tribals, and pointed out the lack of development in the state by the Congress government. This is reflected in the act that in September 2016, when BJP president Amit Shah held a meeting in Imphal, there were reportedly about 30,000 booth level workers attending it. BJP leaders are promising a wave of development in the state with better infrastructure and better governance.
Manipuri people have historically chosen a parties based on leader representing their constituency as opposed to the face of the party, says a local expert. If the leader promises to work for the people and shows potential, he gets elected. With an increasing number of Congress leaders leaving the party to join the BJP, there is an uncertainty regarding which party the Meiteis will choose.
Nagas: The Nagas are an indigenous tribe which became a part of the British India in 1881 after the British annexed Assam in 1826.
The total population of Nagas in Manipur is more than three lakh. One of the oldest demands for this indigenous tribe is the creation of Greater Nagaland a state which would contain parts of Manipur.
This ethnic group is an amalgamation of various sub-tribes like the Tangkhul, Maram, Anal, Maring, etc. and also the old Kukis who like to be recognised as the new Nagas.
The Nagas mainly reside in the hills in districts like Senapati, Ukhrul and Tamenglong which have close proximity to the Naga state Nagaland.
Politics of Naga Peace Accord
On 3 August, 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a peace deal with Nagaland insurgents which rests on a breakthrough formula not involving redrawing of the states borders.
This was touted as the Naga Peace Accord, the contents of which were not revealed to the media. The deal allegedly involves creating a mechanism which would create institutions like allowing autonomy to Naga tribes living in Manipur.
Recently Congress leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Ibobi criticised the deal made between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM), which is the largest Naga rebel group, and asked the government to reveal the contents of that draft.
A report by The Indian Express suggested that a degree of autonomy in Naga homelands would be part of the Naga Peace Accord that hopes to please all factions in the state. This includes a majority of the Meitei people, who are also sensitive about territorial integrity
The BJP hopes to use the Naga Peace Accord as a means to prevail peace in the state and garner votes this election season.
Anti-incumbency politics
The anti-incumbency in Manipur is largely driven by the Naga community and its sub tribes. The United Naga Council (UNC), which claims to be a common platform for Nagas in Manipur, imposed a blockade of two key highways Imphal-Dimapur (NH2) and Imphal-Jiribam (NH37) from 1 November, 2016 to protest against the state government.
In December, 2016, Ibobi declared creation of seven new districts for better administrative purposes. The number of districts in Manipur from nine to 16. The Nagas living in Manipur took offence to this creation. A local Naga leader talking to us said, "This is our land. The decision to divide the land was taken without our permission."
The UNC called tripartite meetings with the Government of India and the state government to resolve the issue of creating new districts. However, the Ibobi government deferred claiming that no administrative decisions could be made till the assembly elections concluded.
Hence with the green signal from both the NSCN-IM, the UNC organised an economic blockade. Manipur, like many of the North Eastern states, is land-locked and the trucks are the mainstay for suppliers. As the national highway runs through Naga-dominated areas, the valley can be easily cut off.
The NDA-led government at the Centre has shown enthusiasm to resolve the economic blockade issue, however, the state government has not lifted a finger. The Nagas perceive this as a betrayal by the Congress govt and hence find themselves leaning towards the outsiders BJP who promise to bring peace and development.
Kukis: With a population of over 2 lakh, most of the Kuki sub-tribes reside in the Churachendpur district in south Manipur. Some Kukis also reside in Naga dominated Senapati and the old Kukis which have a small population of over 30,000 reside in Naga areas identifying themselves as the new Nagas.
The Kukis too have a history of violence in the state. On 1 September, 2015, nine civilians, including an 11-year-old boy, were killed in Churachandpur district, Manipur. But till date, the bodies of the dead have not been buried. The nine people killed in the firing are now called martyrs in Churachandpur.
The deaths were a consequence of the three bills passed by the Manipur Legislative Assembly the Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015, the Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (Seventh Amendment) Bill, 2015, and the Manipur Shops and Establishments (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015 on 31 August, 2015.
The bills were passed in response to the demand of the valley people demand for the implementation of the ILP system in the state.
The interpretation of these bills caused all the trouble in this Kuki-dominated area. While the valley people, who are predominantly Meiteis, viewed the bills as a mechanism to protect the state from outsiders, the Kukis (and also the Nagas) viewed it as a threat to their identity and land.
The non-burial of those nine bodies is viewed as Kukis silent protest against the Congress government for implementing the ILP. According to local experts, there is dissatisfaction among the tribe over the handling of state affairs by the Congress. Hence it is safe to assume that there is major anti-incumbency in these constituencies against the Congress.
New players with no footing: Human rights activist Irom Sharmila, who was on hunger strike for over a decade for the removal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (Afspa) from Manipur, is also in the fray. Her party, Peoples Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA), with little money or organisation has also fielded five candidates.
Irom Sharmila's popularity in the state could have won her a lot of support, however, her decision to end her hunger strike in 2016 turned a lot of people against her. She is also not viewed as a serious career politician by the people of Manipur.
The TMC is contesting in 24 seats in the 60-member Assembly. In the 2012 Assembly polls, the TMC had bagged seven seats, but later all of its MLAs switched sides joining either the Congress or the BJP.
Hence it can be safely concluded that the real fight this election will be between BJP and Congress, or whichever party which manages to buy the most amount of votes.
Ghazipur (Uttar Pradesh): Refuting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim of ISI's involvement in the Kanpur train accident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has alleged that BJP leaders were used to seeking votes by "misguiding" people.
"Our railway minister could not take care of the tracks in Kanpur and gave a false report to the prime minister that the ISI had damaged the tracks. I want to say that since the incident occurred in Uttar Pradesh, at least I should have been informed about it. But no information, no truth in it," he said during an election rally.
Akhilesh also alleged that the leaders of the saffron party were "used to seeking votes by misleading the people".
Ghazipur is the Lok Sabha constituency of Union Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha. As many as 150 people were killed in a train mishap in Kanpur on 20 November, 2016, and another train got derailed there on 28 December. It was said that Pakistan's ISI was responsible for the incidents.
Regarding Union ministers and senior BJP leaders campaigning for the ongoing Assembly election in the state, the chief minister said, "Had the prime minister brought his work here (in Uttar Pradesh), his ministers would not have been required to campaign for his party."
In a veiled reference to the ongoing campus row in Delhi University involving ABVP, Akhilesh asked, "I want to ask those patriotic people of the BJP, who are displaying their nationalism in Delhi, what have they done for the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country? What help was extended to their families? Only the SP government helps the families of soldiers who laid down their lives.
The Samajwadi Party chief claimed that his party has already secured a lead in the first five phases of the seven-phase Uttar Pradesh Assembly election due to the works of its government and added that the "demoralised faces of the BJP and BSP leaders" said it all.
The sixth phase of the polls will be held on Saturday, while the seventh and final phase will be on 8 March. Results will be declared on 11 March.
Leading up to the penultimate phase of polling in the Uttar Pradesh (UP) election, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief, Mayawatis speeches have turned more confident, scathing and at times condescending towards her opponents. From taunting the Samajwadi Party (SP) chief, Mulayam Singh Yadav, his son Akhilesh and the extended family members including Mulayams younger brother Shivpal Yadav for their family feud, she has gone on to term prime minister Narendra Modi a liar and called the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) a 'Bharatiya Jumla (sweet-talk) Party' with no substantial ground work to back the claims of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
While she is reserved in her verbal attacks, in contrast to the shamelessness many leaders from other parties have shown during the campaigning, her body language exudes a quiet triumphalism. She is smiling more and speaking impromptu at times. That is a good sign, says Parag Saini, a BSP worker from Chandauli who was at a rally she addressed recently. Workers from the party cadre claim this is a sign that victory can be achieved in these elections and that most of the work might have been done already.
Voters have spoken, but silently, says Basant Saini, a lawyer based in Amroha in western UP, who is also a member of the All India Backward and Minority Communities Employees Federation (Bamcef), the parent body of the BSP which was founded in 1978 by Kanshi Ram, much before a political plan for the Bahujan Samaj was even devised.
Political pundits across the media have also been talking of the 'silent vote' that Mayawati will be getting, but hardly any seem to allude to the possibility that substantial gains have been made by the party. With the BJP squirming ahead of the last two phases and resorting to last-ditch attempts through usual communal jibing, and with Modi claiming victory despite all practical predictions and terming the last phases the bonus that the electorate will give his party, BSP is claiming victory. While the BJP is set to make most of its gains in these very phases, eastern UP being its traditional strong base, BSP workers are confident of their own gains, most of which they say have already been achieved.
Is baar paschimi hawa chali hai (this time the wind rages from the west), says Basant Saini, referring to the fact that the assembly elections in 2012 began in eastern UP where SP made huge gains last time around, and swept the state subsequently. This time, with west UP beginning first and BSP expected to win substantially in the region, he says the trend will hold through till March 8.
The BSPs gains, if at all made, have been through smart strategies and consolidation of communities that have been at the receiving end of the SP rule over the past five years. The Gujjars have led the way in western UP, especially in the districts adjoining Delhi and Haryana, where they outnumber both Thakurs and Yadavs. While they have hardly found representation in SP earlier, the BJP has gone for Thakur candidates predominantly, with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singhs son Pankaj Singh, considered a rookie, being fielded from Noida to ensure him a safe victory. Gujjars have sided with the BSP as a result. It has been a similar story across the state, with communities like Kurmis and even Brahmins supporting the BSP openly.
These gains are not the result of the BSP cadres efforts alone. Bamcef has quietly thrown its weight behind the party, ensuring a serious political tilt across the social spectra. Members had not supported Mayawati in 2012 due to a failure in policies and had openly favoured Modi in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, but have been rooting for the BSP for more than a year now. With over one lakh members in its National General Body, most of whom are from UP, and many more in state and district level units, Bamcefs capabilities as a ground-level organizer can be matched up only by the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS), the parent body of the BJP. The difference between the two organizations, however, lies in Bamcefs largely multi-religious, multi-caste and mostly secular balance while the latter is a religious organization with caste and religious biases clogging its veins.
With the Bamcef standing up for Mayawati, the exchange of ideas gets a boost, most importantly in the hinterland. Mohammad Mustaqim, an electrical engineer with the state electricity department in Shahjahanpur who is also a member of the Bamcef, says, I travel to at least 25-30 villages in my district every week and members from both the Dalit and Muslim communities as well as from other communities come up asking what Behenji will be doing this time around. I quietly tell them that she is the only sane choice and whatever can be done will be done only by her and nobody else. We should all give her the chance to set things right. Mustaqims phone constantly rings during the evenings nowadays, and at times he cant even recognize people (through voices) yet keep(s) talking till they are convinced and disconnect.
The most important contributors to the gains made by the BSP through Bamcef, however, are the lawyers, judicial officers and even helpers posted at the various district courts across the state. With caste-consciousness and biases, both perceived and real, playing an important part in everyday life in the towns and cities, most people tend to approach lawyers who come from their communities or from communities they do not see as a threat to themselves. More than anything else, this binds us all together. We understand the turbulences that this society brings us and connect through that, says Atif Saifi, a judicial officer based in Meerut who says most of his clients are either Muslims or from the Dalit communities. These interactions, Saifi says, also help organize people into a broad thought process on deciding the best leader to vote for in the elections. Personal discussions ensure a dilemma is placed in the minds of the voters and they do not get swayed by appeasements from local leaders, rather swaying away from it at crunch moments, suspicion of their intents playing a crucial role when they go out to cast their votes.
This is the secret to the silent vote that goes to the BSP, many say. Arvind Kumar (name changed), who is a close relative of Mayawati but has formed his own small party after getting a snub from the BSP higher-ups, says, Bamcef does not work for Mayawati, it works for the Bahujan Samaj and decides keeping in mind what is the best for the communities at the receiving end of the caste and class bias in our society. This time the BSP is the best option. I too am relying on Bamcef support and contesting only from the seats where the BSP seems weak so as to only dent into opposition voter bases. The silent vote, he says, is the result of the call to consciousness of the poor and marginalised as well as the socially aware communities which leads to a coming together of seemingly incompatible and unimaginably distant castes and classes.
One such coup was achieved by the BSP when the Brahman Mahasabha decided to openly support the party in the state ahead of the assembly elections, declaring that it was under Mayawati during her previous rule that the community got the most representation and most respect. The BSP gave tickets to 86 Brahmin candidates in 2007, which fell to 72 in 2012 and has fallen to 66 this time around. The deal was brokered by Satish Chandra Mishra, Mayawatis legal counsel and considered her closest aide. He too used the links through the legal fraternity and court employees to approach the Brahmin leaders, insiders say.
There is good coordination between Bamcef members and people from the Brahmin communities who work in various government departments (state or Central). We approached a lot of people through those channels and it helped us. It must also be seen that Brahmins, despite being ahead in academics and government jobs, lack political representation. Mutual respect delivers favours to both negotiators, and it has done so for us, a senior BSP leader claimed on the condition of anonymity. Brahmins constitute around 10 percent of the total voter base in the state, and the BSP is banking on this, which the Brahman Mahasabha claims to represent in a big way.
The Muslim voter base is also divided and is expected to be the biggest gamble for the BSP since it is traditionally considered a SP stronghold. While the BSP has consistently garnered a good chunk of the votes from among the Muslims, especially those from the backward castes, this time around it is expecting an en masse vote in its favour barring the upper caste Muslims who have found safe refuge with the SP over the past two decades. Firstly, there is no space for Shias in SP since it is dominated by Sunnis. They would not even let us close. Secondly, the fiefdoms of leaders like Azam Khan suck away the benefits that should trickle down to the poor from the community. At least equal treatment can be expected, as the track record shows, from Behenji, says Atif Saifi.
The BSP cadres, on the other hand, have gained confidence of the people since the schemes announced by the party are village-centric and also focus on maintenance of law and order. The SP rule brings with it a backlash from the OBCs who are either in direct confrontation with the Dalit communities owing to local farming-level rivalries or simply because they own more land and hire Dalits to work on them. Either ways their dislike of the rise in the Dalits social and financial status fuels violence that is only withheld, not curtailed, over a long period under the SP. The promise of efficient policing and maintenance of law and order, even if uptight, gives the Dalit communities a sense of security which results in a strong favourable vote-fest for the BSP on polling day.
And the turnouts have been good till now, BSP workers say. We have received quiet confirmations from almost all regions till now that we have gained considerably; the people are with us. This will continue in the next phases too, hopefully. BJPs desperation shows they are losing and Behenjis confidence shows we are going to win. Whether or not we come to power, a strong BSP will benefit all, says Parag Saini.
Lucknow: Polling for 49 Uttar Pradesh Assembly seats, with SP patron Mulayam Singh Yadav's Azamgarh Lok Sabha constituency being in focus, will be held on Saturday in the sixth phase amid tight security arrangements.
Assembly segments of Gorakhpur Lok Sabha constituency of firebrand BJP leader Yogi Adityanath, and Mau, where jailed gangster-turned-MLA Mukhtar Ansari is in fray, also figure in this penultimate phase of polling that will also cover some districts bordering Nepal.
Around 1.72 crore voters, including 94.60 lakh men and 77.84 lakh women, are eligible to cast their votes in this round to decide the fate of 635 candidates.
The districts going to polls are Mau, Gorakhpur, Maharajganj, Kushinagar, Deoria, Azamgarh and Ballia. Azamgarh Lok Sabha constituency has 10 assembly seats, of which SP had won nine in 2012, but this time Mulayam has not addressed a single meeting in his parliamentary constituency.
The prestige of Union minister Kalraj Mishra, who represents Deoria in the Lok Sabha, too is at stake, besides that of Adityanath. BJP is contesting 45 seats and its ally Apna Dal one. Another BJP partner Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party is contesting 3 seats. While BSP has fielded candidates on all 49 seats, SP is contesting 40 seats and Congress 9 seats under an alliance.
Prominent candidates in this phase include BSP turncoat Swami Prasad Maurya from Padrauna (Kushinagar), former BJP state president Surya Pratap Shahi from Pathardeva (Deoria), Shyam Bahadur Yadav (SP), son of former Governor Ram Naresh Yadav from Fulpur Pawai (Azamgarh), SP turncoats Ambika Chowhdury and Narad Rai, who are contesting on BSP ticket from Fefna (Ballia) and Ballia Sadar respectively. Mukhtar is contesting from Mau and his son Abbas is in fray from adjoining Ghosi seat in Mau district.
In the 2012 Assembly polls, of the 49 seats, 27 were won by the SP, 9 by BSP, 7 by BJP, 4 by Congress and 2 by others. There will be 17,926 polling booths in this phase.
The highest number of 23 candidates are contesting from Gorakhpur and the least candidates, numbering seven are in pitted for Mohammadabad Gohna seat in Mau district.
Central Para Military Forces have already reached the constituencies and carried out flag march in sensitive areas.
Indo-Nepal border with Maharajganj and Gorakhpur, and border with Bihar have been sealed.
Police patrolling has been intensified along inter district borders and barriers have been erected on highways to keep an eye on movements of vehicles.
Campaigning for the sixth phase saw BJP state president KP Maurya likening rivals SP, Congress and BSP to different types of venomous "snakes" and "social cancer" and urging people to eliminate them by voting for the BJP.
Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav countered BJP saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conceded defeat in the polls by talking about a hung house. While mustering votes for BJP, Modi sought to prove wrong the prophets of doom after demonetisation saying the latest GDP data showed note-ban did not affect growth rate but rather improved it.
Mocking economists, he said, "Hard work, in fact, is much more powerful than Harvard."
Sounding highly optimistic of the poll outcome for BJP, Modi said the debate now is whether BJP will get two-third or three-fourth majority.
"Never have elections gone one way like this... there had been no dearth in enthusiasm of voters in all five phases," he said.
The PM also caught UP Chief Minister on the wrong foot and cited government website to nail him. "Life in Uttar Pradesh is short and uncertain... Uttar Pradesh resembles Saharan Africa," Modi said quoting a para from the state government's official website up.gov.in.
On the last day of campaigning BJP President Amit Shah held a road show in Gorakhpur. Similar road shows were organised at Kushinagar and Azamgarh.
During her campaign, BSP supremo Mayawati said the public is "disenchanted with BJP and SP" due to the "wrong policies" of the Union and the state governments, and accused Modi and Shah of "dreaming to destroy the state".
In my travels through the Muslim-dominated regions of Uttar Pradesh over the past few weeks, I have tried to understand the mindset of the community and assess whether the Muslim vote could swing in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the ongoing Assembly election in the state.
A senior Islamic cleric, who teaches at the Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama a world-famous seminary in Lucknow believes that the BJP is in a far better position than Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), whose inefficient rule in its previous regime made it fall out of favour with the Muslim community.
During the ongoing polls, the Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama has sent out contradictory messages to Muslim voters. Renowned Islamic scholar Maulana Salman Al-Husaini Al-Nadwi has expressed his support for the BSP, while another top cleric at the seminary criticised him for his "wrong decision."
On the other hand, the seminary's principal Maulana, Saidur Rahman, expressed support for the Samajwadi Party (SP). "I support SP because at this point the SP-Congress alliance is better for the country," Rahman said.
While the Nadwatul Ulama, as an institution, doesn't endorse any political party, statements made by its clerics have often confused the Muslim voters.
The situation is similar in different sects of Islam as Shia clerics, Kalbe Sadiq and Kalbe Jawwad of Lucknow, expressed support for the BSP while Sunni cleric Maulana Khalid Rasheed, of the Darul Uloom Farangi Mahal, lay his allegiance with the SP. Maulana Ashraf Miyan Kichhauchhvi, who belongs to the Sufi school of Islam, has also expressed his support for the BSP.
In Bareilly, Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, who has his own Ittehad-e-Millat Council party, is facing resistance from Muslims. He could not strike a deal with any party. It appears that local Muslims shunned him to vote for the SP.
Kulsum Mustafa, an independent journalist in Lucknow, says that varied appeals from the Islamic clerics have confused the Muslim voters in UP. Hasan Ibrahim, who works with the Urdu daily Roznama Inquilab, said that the clerics' appeals for votes had absolutely no impact on educated Muslims, but added that the common Muslims who read Urdu newspapers are heavily influenced by the clerics and Sufi mystics.
This point is relevant because educated Muslims no longer read Urdu newspapers, while for the common Muslims, the Urdu-Islamic media remains relevant. Islamic clerics have also grasped the use of television to advance their message by organising press conferences and other events geared to attract media headlines.
A quick reading of Urdu newspapers indicate that the bulk of Muslims in UP have voted in favour of the SP so far, while some have voted for the BSP.
Assessing BJP's position among the Muslim voters, Hasan Khalid, a writer from Aligarh, said, "The Muslim youth is definitely voting for the BJP but their numbers are miniscule. And even those who are voting for the BJP cannot say it publicly, because they will be shamed in the community."
In Lucknow, journalist Amit Srivastava says that most Muslims are voting for the SP but added that many have expressed their support for the BJP because of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's stand on the triple talaq issue. Modi's decision to give LPG cylinders to women has also helped the BJP's cause. Their numbers, however, may not be that consequential.
While many psephologists and commentators have argued in the past that BJP has indeed managed to attract a larger share of the Muslim votes, it was largely unbelievable in view of the mass mobilisation of Muslims by Islamic clerics, the Urdu press and the so-called secular parties to vote against the BJP.
So, the argument is not that Muslims are voting for the BJP in large numbers. The only party which Muslims are voting for in large numbers is the SP. This might be because educated Muslims are not in favour of Modi and often fear him; a stark contrast with Atal Bihari Vajpayee's era, when Muslims were receptive to him to an extent.
The BJP has not fielded a single Muslim candidate in the ongoing UP elections, thereby strengthening the view that Muslims are opposed to the BJP. Though it is understandable why Muslim candidates fielded by BJP cannot win in UP, Lucknow-based commentator Faizan Musanna said that all the parties use Muslims as tissue paper for electoral gains use them for the elections and trash them afterwards and wonders if BJP should have done the same. Faizan argues that if the political parties cannot field Muslim candidates due to electoral calculations, they could at least involve them in their organisational decision-making processes.
We know that Muslims in Gujarat and Assam had voted in favour of BJP in the recent past and that a section of Shia Muslims had publicly expressed support for the BJP. Mohsin Raza Alvi, of the BJP's UP unit, said that a certain percentage of Muslims are voting for the BJP and that has caused "fear" among the other parties. The bulk of the Muslim voters, however, are still casting their votes against the BJP.
Hriday Narayan Dikshit, BJP's UP spokesman, makes an interesting observation: "Earlier, Muslims would consider the Congress as a Hindu party, or the Muslim League as a Muslim party." His point highlights a shift in Muslim attitudes towards the Congress from the 1930s and 1940s to after the Partition, when Muslims started voting for the Congress. Dikshit points out that many Muslim writers and women have expressed support for the end of triple talaq.
On 23 February, polling day of the fourth phase of the Assembly polls, Roznama Inquilab carried four news headlines that must have stunned the Muslim readers. One headline quoted Asaduddin Owaisi as saying: "If Akhilesh Yadav can be forgiven for the Muzaffarnagar riots, then Narendra Modi too should be forgiven for the Gujarat riots."
Another headline quoted Dr Muhammad Ayub of the Peace Party as saying that 'Owaisi's All India Muslim Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen wanted to destroy the Muslim leadership.'
A third was a three-column news story as per which Lucknow-based Ulama Committee had urged Muslim voters to be aware of anti-Muslim policies of the Akhilesh Yadav government: "The Akhilesh government is anti-Muslim, and an enemy of Urdu," declared the headline.
A fourth item was a half-page advertisement by Varanasi-based Muslim leader Firoz Khan, which declared: "Fear Allah, not the BJP."
The Muslim votes for BJP are insignificant but the Muslim attitudes towards the party are changing for sure. "Why not BJP?" is a question running through Muslim minds, and if the BJP manage to win in UP, then the Muslims in the state will be forced to revisit their long-entrenched political attitudes towards the BJP.
The author, a former BBC journalist, is a contributing editor at Firstpost and executive director of the Open Source Institute, New Delhi. He tweets: @tufailelif
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Ukrainian businessman and President of DCH Group Oleksandr Yaroslavsky is interested in acquiring only a controlling stake in Turboatom (Kharkiv).
"I will participate in the open tender [to sell the controlling stake in Turboatom] Otherwise, who will?" he told reporters on Friday.
He also said that if a 20% stake is put up for sale, he does not intend to take part in the tender.
"20% - no. I like to do something myself. If I undertake something, I must respond," he said.
As reported, Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said on February 24 that he opposes the full privatization of public joint-stock company Turboatom. He said that some shares from the state-owned 75.224% stake could be sold.
"If we can attract global manufacturers of the same products during the public sale of some shares leaving the state control this is absolutely normal, I think," he said.
He said that in partnership with global leaders in the sector Turboatom would have a chance to enter the global market. He said that Ukraine has 3,500 state-run enterprises and the state is a bad manager.
Head of the State Property Fund (SPF) Ihor Bilous said in an interview with Business weekly earlier that an option to enlarge Turboatom via the transfer of the generator production complex of Electrotyazhmash plant (Kharkiv) is being considered. A new enterprise that would compete with global leaders as Alstom and Simens could be created.
"If Turboatom is sold as it is now, Alstom and Siemens would pay $500 million for it without batting [an eyelid] and actually stop the plant," Bilous said.
He said that first the plant should be expanded and its capitalization should be increased. Then 25% of its shares could be placed on an exchange, for example, the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE).
"Finally the state could leave a blocking stake and the rest of the shares will be diluted among various holders," he said.
Turboatom is the sole producer of turbine equipment in Ukraine for hydro, heat and nuclear electricity stations. Turboatom specializes in manufacturing turbines for thermal and nuclear power plants, hydraulic turbines for hydroelectric power plants and pumped storage power plants, gas turbines for thermal power plants, steam and gas equipment, and other power equipment.
One of the most fascinating segments of voters who will be going to the polls over the seven phases of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly election is the millenial voter. Parth MN, who is travelling through Uttar Pradesh, has filed a series of ground reports on millennial voters in the state, with a special focus on the concerns of young voters. This, the final part of the series, will focus on first-time voters of Varanasi.
Mehboob Ali says his business has been getting better. It is almost up to 40 percent of what it used to be prior to November last year. "We sat idle the next two months," he says. "It is gradually picking up over the past few weeks."
The famous weaver's community of Varanasi, numbering almost two lakhs in the district, is still grappling with the effects of demonetisation. Ali, 20, who is steering the business his grandfather started, says the family has been struggling to make ends meet. "We are still standing in bank queues for bearer cheques, on which our business runs," he says. "We have to pay salaries of Rs 2,000 every week to every laborer. Their bread and butter is in our hands. We know how guilty it feels to delay their payment."
Ali did not study beyond high school, and joined his father's business at the age of 10. He has four younger brothers in school, who he hopes would not join him. "I quit studies because I could help my father make more money and my younger brothers would be able to study," he says. "I want them to find better jobs. Move out of Varanasi, if possible, Uttar Pradesh."
Most of the millennial voters in the weaver community express their desire to break out of the family business, but mention lack of employment in the same breath. If they can afford better education and are lucky enough to get a job, they say, they would take it. Family business, which is not in the best of shapes, is a fallback option.
Unlike the rest of Uttar Pradesh, where Modi is hailed as a crusader against corruption, weavers in Varanasi question the motives and objectives behind demonetisation. Their vote is mostly going to Akhilesh Yadav. "Electricity rent for the machine is only Rs 85 a month," says Ali. "Akhilesh did that. We have done better under his government."
But Varanasi is a complex place, where Bismillah Khan played his eternal shehnai and, at the same time, thousands of devout Hindus take a dip in the Ganges.
Along with the weavers, Brahmins form a formidable votebank in the district. Brahmins who constitute about 13 percent of the state's population are pivotal in about 20 parliamentary seats, especially in eastern UP. Varanasi is one of them, which is why cries of reservation are louder among the millennial voters.
Bhumika Shukla, studying conflict management and development at BHU, says her father is in the Uttar Pradesh police, and transfers and promotions are extremely biased. "The Yadavs are favored above others," she says. "And it is true everywhere. It is much more difficult for me to get a government job as compared to a Yadav. There is a reason why they say 'yeh Yadavoki sarkar hai'. The reservation system has to be revisited."
Students say they don't think of caste or religion, but only of development ahead of casting their vote. But they are vocal about reservation and know which party has fielded how many Brahmin or OBC candidates across the state.
There is 27 percent reservation for OBCs and it's said the Yadav community benefits most from it, with the Samajwadi Party often accused of favoring them over others. There are murmurs of an anti-Yadav vote being consolidated behind BJP. However, even though it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's parliamentary constituency, it does not seem like a cakewalk for the BJP.
Eight constituencies from Varanasi will go to polls on 8 March. Three seats lie in the city of Varanasi, and five in the rural district. In the north Varanasi seat, two BJP leaders are contesting independently because they did not get the party ticket. If they eat into the BJP's voteshare, the SP-Congress alliance could sneak through. In the south, 55 percent are Muslims, who are likely to consolidate behind the alliance as well. In the cantonment seat, the contest is too close to call. Of the five rural constituencies, Ajay Rai and Surendra Patel of the gathbandhan are difficult to beat.
Apart from criticism of Modi and Akhilesh echoing through the rest of the state for communal and not being able to handle law and order, respectively, among the youth in Varanasi, there is a sense of disillusionment with the prime minister, for the city has hardly changed after he became an MP. It still suffers from the issues it suffered earlier. "There is no proper drainage facility, the city is full of dirt and filth," says Ankit Yadav, an MSW student at Kashi Vidyapeeth. "Modi has made a lot of promises but he hardly keeps them. The Rupee is falling. GDP has taken a hit. Where is 'achche din'?"
Further, the changing discourse at educational institutes in India is also a talking point among students at BHU. After appearing on Rajdeep Sardesai's show, Manesha Shukla and her three friends received rape threats for speaking out against gender injustice. "Girls cannot participate in protests or debates, there is injustice with the food we are served, and there are restrictions on clothes and timings as well," says Manesha, a BSC second year student at BHU. "They keep an eye on who we hang out with."
Students who have spent more than three years at BHU say the culture was liberal, and the discourse was free prior to the current vice-chancellor's appointment. Now, celebrating Valentine's Day can lead to cancellation of hostel. Even teachers say they hesitate expressing their socio-political views on social media, and the posts of students and teachers are monitored. Teachers with Right leanings have it easier, they say, and discussions on Gandhi have reduced, while those on Golwalkar have increased in seminars.
A 24-year-old girl, pleading anonymity, says she was happier with the earlier vice-chancellor, and lately feels claustrophobic because of increasing restrictions. "The ABVP is also getting belligerent at BHU," she says. "They ride around with their bikes and indulge in moral policing. We have seen what they did at Ramjas and JNU. Personally, I would not have minded voting for the BJP. But with the rising influence of ABVP and decreasing free space at universities, I will now think twice before voting for them."
Read the other reports in the series:
I. How Lucknow's first-time voters are gearing up for the polls
II. In Sonia Gandhi's adopted Udwa village, millennials are impressed with Modi's 'audaciousness'
III. In VIP constituency of Raebareli, millennial voters vexed with Congress, inclined to vote for Akhilesh
IV. In Amethi, millennial voters are looking beyond Rahul Gandhi
Indian elections, especially in northern states, have always been more captivating than the finest of Hollywood thrillers. This interesting contrast between a thriller movie and a close election arises from the fact that though the characters and the screenplay are largely predictable, the ending is not. The dynamic determinants in elections have always been sharp. One such determinant particular to the ongoing Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections is the caste factor.
Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) attempt to play their hand at caste politics had failed miserably in the 2015 Bihar Assembly election. In that regard, it is interesting to see if the party have rethought their strategy.
Surendra Yadav, a resident of Budhipur Village of Ghazipur constituency, represented by minister of state (Rail) Manoj Sinha, said: All the Mauryas, Chauhans and Binds of the constituency of this Assembly segment are voting for the BJP this time around... they had had voted for the Samajwadi Party (SP) in the 2012 elections."
No caste... only Modi. Bhumihars are voting for a Apna Dal (BJP alliance partner ) candidate, Neel Ratan Patel, in Sewapuri and the Patels are voting for a Bhumihar BJP candidate, Surendra Singh, in the adjoining Rohania constituency, said Manohar Patel, a Babupurwa village resident of Sewapuri constituency in Varanasi, represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a caste ridden state like Uttar Pradesh, BJPs management of different social segments without upsetting any others seems to be paying dividends. The party has diligently designed a model to defeat the caste champions SP, on their own turf.
The prelude to the battle lay in consolidating the traditional upper caste vote base by acknowledging them and in bringing non-Yadav OBCs and non-Jatav SC votes into the BJP fold, by igniting dissonance and attracting them using Modi's charisma.
BJP has always been perceived as a party belonging to a certain caste and class. Most of its national faces have for long been reinforcing this image. Kalyan Singh was an exception, as he managed to gain political power and position while effectively maintaining his status among the cadre as well as the masses. His support base, in contrast to today's BJP leaders, was strongly rooted among the OBCs.
After his withdrawal from the electoral landscape of UP, BJP were left with hardly any other OBC face someone who has had acceptability among the OBC masses.
Then came the era of 'Modi magic' in Indian politics. He not only presented himself as a mascot of development but also complemented his persona with modern day gadgets, an elegant dressing sense and his honesty about his humble background. This made Modi the tallest OBC leader in contemporary Indian politics. His likeability cut across social and economic classes and he soon developed a pan-India image.
Banking on his image, the BJP have been successful in implementing a three-pronged strategy in Uttar Pradesh:
Dethroning Mulayam Singh
Displacing the SP patriarch from the unstated position of an 'OBC messiah' has been the first accomplished agenda of the BJP. Mulayam, who till recently was the tallest OBC leader not just of UP but also the country has been reduced to a Yadav leader.
Mulayam has largely been (dis)credited with the superlative preference assigned to Yadavs for government appointments and premium postings. The BJP, using this, were successfully in instigating a feeling of dissonance and disgruntlement among non-Yadav OBCs.
The theory was successfully subscribed to by the target segment. Keshav Maurya was made UP BJP president and many of the OBC leaders joined the party with much fanfare. Alliances with two caste based political outfits further augmented the BJPs position among non-Yadav OBCs, especially in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Demonetisation
Unlike popular media perception, the note ban has been hugely beneficial for the BJP. The drastic decision was perceived as a step towards 'right wing communism'. The poor and the down trodden largely belonging to SC/ST and OBC categories found satisfaction in seeing the foul riches being stripped away from the corrupt.
Many in the state hope that a subsequent chunk of that money will be coming their way. The political merits of the move were repeatedly ratified in BJP's electoral engagements since demonetisation.
Primacy of non-Yadav OBCs
BJP's final masterstroke was to give preference to non-Yadav OBCs while distributing tickets for unreserved seats. Sections with higher population and higher voting percentages received a higher share in ticket distribution. This strengthened BJP's position among non-Yadav votes.
The strategy, though a risky proposition, helped the BJP significantly as other parties could not keep pace with the political dynamics and hence failed to leverage the opportunity. Naveen Pandey, a teacher, wrote on Facebook: Many of the Brahmins have approached me to vote for the Brahmin candidate contesting from my Assembly constituency of Jangipur and not for an OBC candidate fielded by the BJP. He further writes it is not just me and my family but 60-70 percent of the Brahmins in my village who are going to vote for BJP.
The net gain for BJP has been a wider acceptability among a majority of social groups of the state, that brings it closer to the finishing line. SP largely appear to be the favourites among Yadavs, Muslims and other traditional socialists, which restrict its prospects.
Bahujan Samaj Party, on the other hand, does not seem to be receiving the warmth of any social groups other than its traditional Jatav votes and Muslims, especially those from belonging to rural areas and the conservatives. A section of non-Jatav SC votes have moved to the BJP and the social groups that joined the BSP faction in the 2007 UP Assembly elections have largely deserted.
It is a tough race and any one can win. But at the macro level, 30 percent of the total polled vote is the minimum yardstick of winning the state. At constituency level, 60,000 is the minimum votes needed to win. This is possible only when a large group votes in favour of a particular party.
The social engineering employed by BJP appears to enjoy greater acceptability among the wider social groups and the party may have finally mastered the art of caste politics.
The author is professor, faculty of management studies, Banaras Hindu University.
Airports across the country have been alerted about the possibility of UP Minister Gayatri Prajapati, accused of rape, trying to flee the country. A Letter of Cancellation (LC) will soon be opened against him and all airports have been alerted to prevent the 49-year-old Prajapati from fleeing the country, official sources said. BJP on Friday accused Akhilesh Yadav of hiding rape accused minister Gayatri Prajapati at his residence and said the chief minister had become a "patron" of criminals in the state. "The chief minister has hidden Gayatri Prajapati in his residence and the police is enacting the drama of carrying out raids to arrest him," state unit president of the BJP Keshav Prasad Maurya claimed here.
"Can Akhilesh take a pledge in the name of the mother Ganga that Gayatri has not been kept at the CM's residence...if the chief minister really wants, Prajapati can be caught in ten minutes," he said. The BJP leader alleged that Akhilesh had become a patron of big criminals in the state, adding that CM house should not be allowed to become a "haven for criminals". Senior BJP leader Vijay Bahadur Pathak also charged the chief minister with campaigning for the gangrape accused and describing him as a capable leader before people. Besides, another minister Azam Khan had described the rape case as a conspiracy, he said.
"...such an attitude encourages people with criminal mentality. They show scant regard for women's safety and blatantly indulge in heinous crimes," Pathak said. Prajapati is accused in separate cases of gangrape and an attempt to rape another woman and her minor daughter. He has remained elusive and the Lucknow Police have initiated steps to withdraw his 'Y' category security. Acting on the Supreme Court's orders, police said they have been making efforts to nab him and they might even apply for cancellation of his passport so that the minister cannot escape from the country.
Interestingly, though, the minister was seen moving freely from one place to other in his constituency seeking votes. The last time Prajapati was seen in public was on 27 February, when he spoke to the media saying he will win by a huge margin and will work under Akhilesh once again. The 49-year-old is facing imminent arrest following an FIR lodged against him and six of his accomplices on the apex court's order at Gautampalli police station in the state capital on February 18 under various sections of the IPC and POCSO Act.
Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav on Friday promised full cooperation with regards to the case of rape-accused elusive minister Gayatri Prasad Prajapati as per the directions of the Supreme Court.
"The matter is in the Supreme Court...The government will fully cooperate and go by its order," Yadav said in response to a question at a hurriedly-convened press conference here. When his attention was drawn to the tweet by state BJP president Keshav Prasad Maurya, Akhilesh asked the mediapersons to follow him with their cameras to check for themselves.
By Ayman al-Warfalli
| BENGHAZI, Libya
BENGHAZI, Libya An armed faction entered a major Libyan oil terminal and an airport at the neighbouring one on Friday, after attacking forces that have controlled the terminals since September, officials and residents said.It was unclear who controlled the ports late on Friday as fighting continued. There was no statement from the Libyan National Oil Corporation (NOC), which reopened the ports after the eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA) took them over seven months ago.Since then the LNA's opponents have launched several unsuccessful attacks against the ports in Libya's eastern oil crescent. Earlier on Friday the LNA said it had used air strikes and ground troops to repel the attack by the Benghazi Defence Brigades (BDB). But port engineers and a Libyan oil source said the BDB entered Es Sider port, and the BDB posted pictures of its fighters at an airport in neighbouring Ras Lanuf.The oil source denied reports that workers at Es Sider had been evacuated, and port officials said operations had not been affected.
Later, the LNA said it had retaken control at Ras Lanuf airport. A medical source said at least three LNA troops had been killed and five wounded in the fighting. Es Sider and Ras Lanuf are among four ports that the LNA took control of in September. That allowed the NOC to reopen three of the ports which had long been blockaded, leading to a sharp boost in Libya's oil production. The Benghazi Defence Brigades are composed partly of fighters who were ousted from Benghazi by the LNA, where LNA commander Khalifa Haftar has been waging a military campaign for nearly three years against Islamists and other opponents.
The LNA brands its opponents as Islamist extremists, and both sides accuse the other of using mercenaries from Libya's sub-Saharan neighbours to the south. Libya has recently been producing about 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) of oil, more than double its output early last year but still far less than the 1.6 million bpd the OPEC member was pumping before the 2011 uprising.
But production remains vulnerable to political turmoil and continued insecurity, with factions based in the east and west of Libya repeatedly clashing in recent weeks in desert areas southwest of the Oil Crescent whose ports suffered major damage in previous rounds of fighting and are still operating well below capacity. Tankers have been loading at Es Sider since December, with the Amalthea due to arrive on March 7 to load 630,000 barrels for Austria's OMV (OMVV.VI).The NOC has been lobbying foreign firms to return to Libya and invest in the oil and gas sector as it tries to push production to 1.2 million bpd later this year. Es Sider and Ras Lanuf have a potential combined production capacity of about 600,000 bpd. (Additional reporting by Ahmad Ghaddar and Julia Payne in London; Writing by Aidan Lewis; Editing by Robin Pomeroy)
This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
There is no economic case for breaking up the United Kingdom, British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Friday, in a speech attacking Scottish nationalists for being "obsessed" with independence.
Since last year's Brexit vote, Scottish National Party leader and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has repeatedly said she could push for a new independence referendum if the country is forced into a clean break with the bloc.
"The economic case for the union has never been stronger," May told her Conservative Party's Scottish conference in Glasgow. "There is no economic case for breaking up the United Kingdom, or of loosening the ties which bind us together."
May also said that no decisions currently taken by the Scottish parliament will be removed from it when Britain leaves the EU.
Britain will trigger the legal process for leaving the European Union by the end of March, Brexit minister David Davis said on Friday.
"Are we going to trigger Article 50 by the end of the month? Yes," Davis told a news conference in Bratislava after meeting Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.
Beijing: China on Friday warned India against allowing the Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh, saying it would cause "serious damage" to the bilateral ties and peace in the disputed border region.
"China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai to visit Arunachal Pradesh," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told the media.
China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of Tibet and routinely objects to any visits by top leaders, officials and diplomats to the area.
China had also aired similar concerns in October last year when India granted permission to the Tibetan spiritual leader to visit Arunachal Pradesh at the invitation of the state government. The visit is expected to take place this year.
"China is strongly opposed to the Dalai visiting disputed areas," Geng said.
"China's position on the eastern section of China-India border dispute is consistent and clear. The Dalai clique has long been engaging in anti-China separatist activities and its record on the border question is not that good," he said.
Geng said China expressed its concern to India through formal channels.
"India is fully aware of the seriousness of the Dalai issue and the sensitivity of China-India border question," he said.
"Under such a background if India invites the Dalai to visit to the mentioned territory, it will cause serious damage to peace and stability of border region and China-India relations," he said.
"We have expressed concerns to the Indian side, urged India to stick to its political commitments and abide by important consensus the two sides have reached on the boundary question, refrain from actions that might complicate the issue, not provide a platform to the Dalai clique and protect the sound and stable development of the Sino-India relations," he said.
Geng's comments came in the backdrop of an interview to the Chinese media by former Chinese Special Representative on boundary dispute Dai Bingguo in which he said the border dispute between the two nations can be resolved if India gives up claim over Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
Asked about Dai's comments, Geng said he has not seen the interview.
He said China's principled position on the boundary question with India is to reach an early solution pending China-India border question is in the fundamental interest of the two countries.
In his address to the joint session of Congress, President Trump came through well. Gone were the barbs and blusters one saw in his speeches during the presidential election and even at the time of swearing-in ceremony just a month ago. Here he was addressing the members of Congress with respect the American legislators deserve. A CNN poll said 57 percent of the people found his speech satisfactory.
He sketched his administrations policy before the Congress. Largely he talked of how his administration will deal with the number one issue America, not unlike other democracies, faces today unemployment. However, unemployment caused by American manufacturers outsourcing American jobs, relocating their companies to countries like Mexico or China (because of lower wages in these countries) is a major problem for them. Trump has often expressed (in his campaign rallies or tweets) that he would like to stop this export of American jobs by giving large tax incentives to companies. He he enjoys the support of American labour and businesses on this issue.
Immigration was one of the biggest agenda of his presidential campaign. Soon after he took over the White House, he decreed a ban on immigration from seven Muslim countries. The judiciary objected to his decision and several states condemned it calling it discriminatory. Since then he has toned down his approach by permitting immigration on merit basis.
Trump has to reckon with the system of checks and balances of this sturdy democracy, now 251 years old. Trump is soon realising that his ideological zeal has little place in a system that has well established institutions and practices. His biggest climb down from his original election platform is on the issue of health. In March 2010, former US president Barack Obama had passed the Affordable Health Care act which was a first considering even Franklin Roosevelt, one of the most popular US presidents, failed to give the American people a public health system.
Since Obama achieved this fete in 2010, Republicans who dominated Congress during his tenure decided to block all legislation by the Democratic government. This was much similar to the Indian situation on the GST issue. A legislative-executive deadlock hurts people. Donald Trump who said during the election that he would demolish 'ObamaCare' now stated in his address to the Congress that he would put in its place a new health care measure. Whatever the name he gives it, its basically ObamaCare, and the Democrats in the Congress thunderously applauded it as their own.
The Trump administration has bluntly said no to Obama administrations move of creating a Pacific community, for free trade of 12 countries, consisting of American and East Asian Pacific countries. This they did on the grounds that such a policy would rob of American people of its jobs . Trump administration's foreign policy is majorly going to be governed by these factors immigration, jobs and health.
On two foreign policy issues the administration has reversed its policy: Nato and Russia. Before Trump took office he criticised Nato. Now in his address to the Congress he says Nato is of vital importance to the country. It is the lynch-pin of American security. He also reiterated his position on Russia at the time UK prime minister Theresa May's visit last month: sanctions of Nato countries on Russia remain. As long as Putins Russia appears to be a threat to the European members of Nato, the American commitments to the security of Europe remains, Trump reportedly said to Theresa May.
There is a new dimension to Americas relations thats going to make this relationship very choppy. Democrats and now increasing number of Republicans are asking for an impartial investigation into links, if any between the Trump's campaign team and Russian president Vladimir Putin. There are louder calls by members of both parties that the present Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, resigns from the investigation team looking into this affair. Earlier the presidents national security advisor Michael Flynn had to resign for his calls to the Russian embassy in Washington.
It should be recalled here that as a candidate of the Republican Party he expressed vicarious joy in Russian hacking of Hillary Clintons emails. Should any such links between the Trump's campaign team and the Putin administration be discovered, the Russia-America relations will crash. It was premature of foreign secretary S Jaishankar to say, as he did, at a recent MEA gathering, that Russian-American relations have never been as good as they are today a gross exaggeration.
There are no deeply divisive issues between us and Trumps America. The thing we need today is hard analysis of our own foreign relations and less of grand pronouncements.
By James Giahyue
| MONROVIA
MONROVIA The family of a Liberian Ebola nurse named Time magazine's "Person of the Year" in 2014 wants to sue a hospital whose staff they say were too scared to treat her when she died of complications around childbirth.The hospital in the capital Monrovia rejected that claim, saying staff had done all they could save Salome Karwah, who died after giving birth by caesarean section last week. Liberian authorities said this week they are investigating her death.Karwah worked with charity Doctors Without Borders as a nurse after herself recovering from the often deadly hemorrhagic fever. She was one of five people featured on the Time magazine cover for their work in fighting Ebola. "The ... family is going to take a lawsuit against the hospital," her brother Reginald Karwah told Reuters by telephone. "The mismanagement of our (sister's) condition was due to the fact that they had people on shift who did not handle her case professionally."Since her previous exposure -- when Ebola ravaged her village and killed a number of her relatives -- had rendered her immune, Karwah was able to make direct contact with sick patients that most carers could not.
Time reported that she could even "spoon-feed elderly sufferers, and rock feverish babies to sleep".In June last year the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Liberia free of active Ebola virus transmission, the last of four West African countries at the epicentre of the world's worst outbreak of the disease.Traces of Ebola can hide in survivors' bodies long after they have recovered, but health experts say the risk of Ebola re-emerging and being transmitted to others is extremely low. Despite that, there is a great deal of stigma around survivors of the virus in West Africa.
Liberia's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Francis Kateh told Reuters by telephone the family were "not looking at the reality"."I don't think [stigmatisation] is an issue. She stayed there for days before she was discharged, so if there was a stigma against someone with Ebola they would not have touched her or operated on her," when in fact they did, he said. "Had ... no one touched her, no one looked at her, then you could say stigmatisation (occurred)," he added, denying that this is what happened.
But Karwah's husband James Harris said he had argued with doctors and nurses at the hospital for three hours to let her in while she lay unattended in an ambulance."I feel very bad and angry. My wife fought Ebola, saved other people's lives and now this was the time for the healthcare workers in Liberia to pay back but they refused." The epidemic killed more than 11,300 people and infected some 28,600 from 2013, as it swept through Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia, according to WHO data. (Writing by Tim Cocks; Editing by Catherine Evans)
This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
New Delhi: The Indian Commissioner of the Permanent Indus Commission has accepted his Pakistani counterpart's invitation for talks on the Indus Waters Treaty scheduled to be held in Pakistan in the second half of March.
However, given the extremely strained relations between the two South Asian nuclear neighbours, the Indian establishment here does not see this as official talks of any sort with Pakistan, it is reliably learnt.
The Permanent Indus Commission is a bipartisan body entrusted with everyday implementation of the World Bank-brokered Indus Waters Treaty that was signed in 1960.
The Commission, which is mandated to meet at least once every year, alternately in India and Pakistan, comprises Indus Commissioners from both sides and discusses technical matters related to implementation of the Treaty. It has met 112 times since 1960.
It is learnt that mutually convenient dates and mutually agreeable agenda are being worked out directly by the Commissioners themselves and the Indian government has played no role in this regard.
New Delhi sees this as just another regular meeting of the Commission to deal with technical matters concerned with implementation of the Treaty and which does not amount to talks between India and Pakistan.
The Treaty had come close to be jeopardised following the cross-border terror attack on September 18 last year on an army base at Uri in Jammu and Kashmir that claimed the lives of 19 Indian soldiers.
Blaming the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed for the attack, New Delhi said it would consider revisiting the Indus Waters Treaty, which has withstood three wars and is seen as one of the most successful international agreements.
According to the agreement, India has control over three eastern rivers -- Beas, Ravi and Sutlej -- all flowing from Punjab.
Pakistan, as per the treaty, controls the western rivers of the Indus -- Chenab and Jhelum that flow from Jammu and Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir has been demanding a review of the treaty as it robs the state of its rights to use the water of the rivers.
The current processes under the treaty concern the Kishenganga (330 MW) and Ratle (850 MW) hydroelectric power plants, being built by India on the Kishenganga and Chenab rivers, respectively, to which Pakistan has raised objections.
In November last year, India had pointed out the legal untenability of the World Bank launching two simultaneous processes for appointment of a neutral expert -- requested by India -- and establishment of a court of arbitration -- requested by Pakistan -- to adjudicate technical differences.
In December, the World Bank announced a pause in the separate processes initiated by India and Pakistan to allow the two countries to consider alternative ways to resolve their disagreements.
"We are announcing this pause to protect the Indus Waters Treaty and to help India and Pakistan consider alternative approaches to resolving conflicting interests under the Treaty and its application to two hydroelectric power plants," World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim had said in a statement.
"This is an opportunity for the two countries to begin to resolve the issue in an amicable manner and in line with the spirit of the Treaty rather than pursuing concurrent processes that could make the treaty unworkable over time."
This year, weeks after discussing the Indus Waters Treaty issue with Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Islamabad, World Bank Chief Executive Officer Kristalina Georgieva met Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley here.
Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Rozenko has said the work on the memorandum with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) still continues, the draft document does not contain any specifics concerning the pension reform.
"The work on the memorandum is ongoing. I think we'll be able to speak about the completion of the work on the memorandum with the International Monetary Fund or a letter of intent with the International Monetary Fund only when the IMF will make a final decision to continue providing its financial assistance to Ukraine, when this will be approved by the IMF," Rozenko said on the air of 112.ua on Friday.
The deputy prime minister said the memorandum doesn't give any details about the pension reform, but only emphasizes the need for its implementation.
The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) is holding its first summit meeting in Jakarta on 5-7 March on the 20th anniversary of its formation. The regional organisation, which is a grouping of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean, has the unusual format of an annual conference in three sections with representatives of government, business and academia. Indonesia, the current chair of IORA, in an effort to energise the regional body has elevated the annual conference to summit level by inviting presidents and prime ministers.
Can Indonesia energise the slow moving, low profile grouping and set it on track to evolve into a dynamic regional organisation? The theme of the leaders' meeting is 'Strengthening Maritime Cooperation for a Peaceful, Stable, and Prosperous Indian Ocean'. There is a general view that IORA has tremendous potential as an economic organisation in a region where economic cooperation is still expanding. But IORA is yet to develop into an effective body. Unlike other high-profile regional organisations across the world, IORA has continued to function at the ministerial level. Indonesias move to upgrade to summit level has come just at a time when the Indian Ocean has gained greater strategic importance.
India has made an increased effort to engage with island countries of the Indian Ocean and with countries in Africa in recent years. India is strategically placed in the centre of the Indian Ocean and about 90 percent of its maritime trade travels across the Indian Ocean. About 16 leaders are expected to attend the annual meet in Jakarta, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be attending it. The prolonged election process for five states has held up the prime minister. India will be represented by Vice-President Hamid Ansari, who has been taking forward the governments foreign policy agenda during his travels. But Modis presence will be missed when a revitalised organisation is in the making.
An Indian Ocean grouping was first suggested by South Africa in the 1990s when it was transiting to multi-racial democracy. The clumsily named Indian Ocean Rim Arch of Cooperation (IOR-ARC), stretching from South Africa to Australia was founded in 1997 with India as one of its main backers. It was accepted as a good concept and there was a rush of countries seeking membership in the grouping. Its membership went up to 18 before a moratorium on new members was declared. However, further consolidation was slow as political issues bogged down the body, the tides of globalisation and economic reforms were slow to reach many parts of the region.
IORA membership has grown to 21 with seven dialogue partners but it remained a low-key, low-profile body, seeking to promote economic cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. The IORA membership includes India, Indonesia, Australia, Bangladesh, Comoros, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malyasia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. Its seven dialogue partners are the US, China, Egypt, France, Germany, Japan and the UK. The political rivalries have receded as the need for greater economic cooperation has increased.
The Indian Ocean region has seen many changes in the past 20 years since the IORA was set up. The African economies are being transformed; some of the fastest growing economies in the world are in Africa. Indonesia has shown greater interest in developing its maritime potential under President Joko Widodos vision of making Indonesia a maritime power. Trade, investment, and tourism are major items on the IORA agenda, but maritime security and disaster risk management are areas of primary concern to Indian Ocean Rim states as are management and conservation of fish and marine resources.
IORA still eschews politics, but the meeting of the Council of Ministers on 6 March, 2017 in Jakarta is expected to finalise a set of documents that aim to set out the future direction for the Indian Ocean Association. These documents comprise a draft accord, an action plan and a declaration. The summit of leaders of the region is expected to approve the documents and place the IORA in a faster track.
DAMASCUS Damage to the World Heritage site of Palymra by Islamic State militants may be less than earlier believed, Syria's antiquities chief said on Friday.Maamoun Abdulkarim told Reuters that video from Palmyra after it was recaptured by the Syrian army has shown less damage than archaeologists feared when pictures emerged at the beginning of the year suggesting Islamic State had smashed more monuments. Under heavy Russian air cover, the Syrian army and allied militias drove the jihadist group out of the UNESCO world heritage site on Thursday, two months after they had seized it in a surprise advance. Fears of a new assault on Palmyra's heritage were raised after pictures in January showed the group had destroyed parts of the Tetrapylon, one of the city's most iconic monuments, and the facade of the second-century Roman Theatre. They had already destroyed other landmarks, including a 1,800-year-old monumental arch, during their first occupation of the city which ended a year ago last March. But Abdulkarim said preliminary photographs and video from the city showed almost no further damage than what was already known. "Really, our hearts had been overwhelmed with fear of a complete explosion of the theatre," Abdulkarim said. "We thought the situation would be much worse, that there would be eradication, that they [Islamic State] would complete their crimes from the first occupation," he added.
Abdulkarim said he would visit the area soon for a better assessment, but added: "At least there is some sense of tranquility after we received the initial photos. The general situation is reassuring." Some of the damage could be repaired, he said. "Except for the previous destruction, the state of the theatre looks good," Abdulkarim said. "Even that destroyed section could be repaired. It had already been restored, and it will be again." Palmyra, known in Arabic as Tadmur, stood at the crossroads of the ancient world. "We had received terrifying information that there might have been a revenge crime against the entire citadel," Abdulkarim said. "There is some damage, but in general, the citadel is fine too."
FRONTLINES
Broadcasting live from inside Palmyra on Friday, Syrian state television showed pro-government forces and army troops celebrating atop the historic citadel on the outskirts of the city.
The army narrowed in on the militants from three different directions, a field commander said on state television. "We opened frontlines along all those directions," he said.In December, Islamic State swept into Palmyra as the army and its allies focused on defeating rebels in Aleppo. Eastern Aleppo fell to the government in its most important gain of the war, which has killed hundreds of thousands and created one of the world's worst refugee crises.Islamic State is now on the back foot in Syria after losing territory in the north to an alliance of U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led militias, and to Turkey-backed Syrian rebel groups. The Syrian army is also fighting Islamic State east of Aleppo city, where it is pushing to reach the Euphrates river, and in the city of Deir al-Zor, where it controls an enclave besieged by the militants.However, the jihadist group still holds swathes of territory in Syria, including around the Euphrates basin and the country's eastern deserts along the border with Iraq. (Reporting by Kinda Makieh in Damascus and Ellen Francis in Beirut Editing by Jeremy Gaunt)
This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
By Maher Chmaytelli and Isabel Coles
| BAGHDAD/ERBIL, Iraq
BAGHDAD/ERBIL, Iraq The number of civilians escaping the fighting in Mosul has increased significantly as battles intensify between U.S.-backed Iraqi forces and Islamic State militants, and some have been exposed to chemical agents, the Red Cross said on Friday. Iraqi armed forces meanwhile said they had captured another district as they push toward the densely packed old city centre where the fighting is expected to become tougher.Among casualties in the past 48 hours, five children and two women were treated for exposure to chemical agents, suffering blisters, eye redness, vomiting and coughing, said the International Committee of the Red Cross. The United States has warned that Islamic State could use weapons containing sulfur mustard agents to repel the offensive on the northern Iraqi city.Iraqi forces captured the eastern side of Mosul in January after 100 days of fighting and launched their attack on the districts that lie west of the Tigris river on Feb. 19.Defeating Islamic State in Mosul would crush the Iraqi wing of the caliphate declared by the group's leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, in 2014, over parts of Iraq and Syria, although the group is expected to continue a campaign of insurgent attacks.The Iraqi military believes several thousand militants, including many foreigners, are hunkered down in Mosul among the remaining civilian population, which aid agencies estimated to number 750,000 at the start of the latest phase of the battle.
The battle for Mosul has killed and wounded several thousand people since it started on Oct. 17, according to aid agencies."We have noted a significant increase in displacement in last week, 30,000 in west Mosul, 4,000 a day or so," Matthew Saltmarsh, a spokesman for the U.N. refugee agency UNHCR, told a news briefing in Geneva."Of course the military fighting is intensifying by the day," Bastien Vigneau, the emergency director for Mosul operations at the U.N children's agency UNICEF, told the briefing.Speaking from Erbil, east of Mosul, he said over 100,000 children are among the 191,000 who have been displaced in total from the city since October.
Among them, UNICEF identified 874 children who were unaccompanied or separated. More than half have been reunited with parents, and the rest are being taken care of by extended family.The militants are using suicide car bombers, snipers and booby traps to counter the offensive waged by the 100,000-strong force of Iraqi troops, Kurdish peshmerga fighters and Iranian-trained Shi'ite Muslim paramilitary groups.The Iraqi forces captured the Wadi Hajar district on Friday, an advance that allows them to link up all their forces in the south of the city, starting from the Tigris river and ending in the Mamoun district, according to military statements. Intra-Kurdish fighting erupted on the sidelines of the battle, highlighting the risk of conflict and turf war between the multiple forces arrayed against Islamic State, many of which lean on regional patrons for political support and arms.
The clash broke out when Peshmerga Rojava forces moved towards the border with Syria, encroaching on territory controlled by a local affiliate of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).The Peshmerga Rojava is made up of Kurds from Syria and was formed and trained in Iraq with the backing of Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdish Regional Government in northern Iraq.The clashes, which lasted several hours, pitted them against the YBS, which was set up there by the PKK after it came to the aid of the Yazidi population when the area was overrun by Islamic State in the summer of 2014.Most Yazidis are still displaced from their homes, but some families who returned to Sinjar fled again on Friday."It's a struggle between two political parties but the victims are the Yazidis," said 19-year from the town of Khanasor where the clashes took place. "Aren't they supposed to be fighting Daesh (Islamic State)? Let them go and get rid of them." (With additional reporting by Stephanie Nebehay in Geneva; Writing by Maher Chmaytelli)
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Jerusalem: National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has held talks with Israel's top leadership as part of preparations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's much-awaited visit, the first by an Indian premier to the Jewish country.
Modi is expected to visit Israel by the middle of this year.
Doval landed in Israel on Wednesday and met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his Jerusalem office. Doval also met his counterpart, Israel's acting National Security Adviser and Head of the National Security Council, Brig Gen (retd) Jacob Nagel.
The discussions "revolved around Prime Minister Modi's expected visit this summer", officials told PTI.
Doval left for India on Thursday morning after a short trip.
India's relations with Israel have made steady progress since the two countries established diplomatic relations 25 years ago in January 1992, irrespective of the party in power in New Delhi, but a prime ministerial visit to Israel has been long-awaited.
President Pranab Mukherjee visited Israel in October, 2015, in what was the first such visit by an Indian Head of State to the Jewish country.
Israeli President Reuven Rivlin made a reciprocal visit last year at Mukherjee's invitation in what was the second visit by an Israeli Head of State to New Delhi coming after a gap of almost 20 years.
The only visit of an Israeli Prime Minister to India happened in 2003 when Ariel Sharon visited New Delhi. BJP-led government under Atal Behari Vajpayee was in power at that time.
Modi's visit is being discussed amid talks of a "close chemistry" between him and Netanyahu.
The two leaders have already met twice on foreign soil on the sidelines of UN-related events and are said to have been in touch with each other over the phone.
"I am happy that often we can talk easily on telephone, we can discuss everything. It has very rarely happened. In your case it has happened," Modi had told Netanyahu during their meeting on the sidelines of Paris climate summit in 2015.
The Israeli premier had then promptly responded by saying, "in your case too".
India's abstention in a UNHRC vote in 2015 on a UN report critical of Israel's offensive in the Gaza war of 2014 was described by many as a sign of a "qualitative leap" in relations which had transformed into "completely normal" ties without any "hangups" with many crediting the closeness between the two prime Ministers for the "change in heart".
New Delhi, however, later clarified that the vote was a "principled" stand it had taken with the International Criminal Court having a reference in the resolution and did not mark "any shift in policy".
Starting with humble figures of USD 200 million in annual trade in 1992, the two countries registered bilateral trade of about USD 4.5 billion last year.
The defence ties between the two countries have often drawn worldwide attention and acquired strategic dimensions.
Modi's visit is expected to push Israeli defence companies to set up manufacturing units in India under the much publicised 'Make in India' campaign.
Washington: US President Donald Trump, who received five deferments from the Vietnam War draft, has angered military veterans by wearing a flight jacket and an Admiral's cap during a visit aboard an aircraft carrier.
Trump donned the olive military jacket and hat during a tour of the new Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier in Newport, Virginia, on Thursday as he pledged to boost defence spending, USA Today reported.
The jacket and hat, which were personalised with the words "POTUS 45" on the back, were a gift from the crew.
"They said, 'Here Mr President, take this home.' I said, 'Let me wear it'," Trump said during his address to the crew, drawing laughter.
"And then they gave me the beautiful hat, and I said, 'You know? Maybe I'll do that'."
Trump continued, "We have a great 'Make America Great Again' hat, but I said, 'This is a special day, we're wearing this'."
Though the items were a gift to the President, his choice to wear the clothing wasn't received well by veterans on the social media.
"As a Veteran watching a 5 time draft dodging COWARD saluting a Marine guard is the epitome of HYPOCRISY Impeach this cowardly b------ NOW!!!," tweeted one user.
"My skin crawls watching this man wear the uniform of my service. This is disgraceful," said another Twitter user.
Author and broadcaster Joy Reid tweeted: "Trump - who got five deferments from Vietnam - is currently cosplaying as a military man, complete with hat and jacket."
"As a vet, I am appalled to see draft-evading #trump donning a military cap & jacket on a naval aircraft carrier! Insult to navy seal who died," a user said.
Trump during his visit also met sailors and military leaders as he pledged to provide "the finest equipment in the world" and give the military the "tools you need to prevent war".
The President angered veterans last year also when he attacked Senator John McCain, saying: "I like people who weren't captured."
By Philip Wen and Benjamin Kang Lim
| BEIJING
BEIJING When China rejuvenates its top leadership team towards the end of the year, sources close to senior leaders say President Xi Jinping could reveal his grip on power with a possible leapfrog promotion for Guizhou Communist Party boss Chen Miner.Chen, a trusted confidant of Xi, has already ridden on the coat-tails of his former boss since they worked together in Zhejiang, where Xi was provincial party leader, and three sources with leadership ties think he could jump straight into the seven-member Politburo Standing Committee (PSC) during the 19th party congress in the autumn.In national politics, Chen is currently only a member of the 205-member Central Committee, and an elevation to the PSC, which has ultimate power over the world's second-largest economy, would involve a two-step promotion, missing out the 25-member Politburo."Chen Miner is a dark horse," said a Chinese official who has worked with Chen. "He has a good relationship with Xi and is very competent. He gets things done.""At the very least, Chen Miner will become a member of the Politburo," a source with ties to the leadership told Reuters.Chen spent the first three decades of his career steadily rising through the party ranks in his native Zhejiang, where his career began to dovetail with Xi's from 2002, when the latter secured his first top provincial-level appointment.An avid reader and Chinese calligraphy buff, Chen worked closely with Xi for more than four years as Zhejiang's propaganda chief, running Xi's regular column in the provincial newspaper and cultivating his growing profile.In 2012, he left Zhejiang for the first time in his career to become Guizhou deputy party secretary. Less than a year later, and within roughly a month of Xi becoming president, Chen was promoted to governor, before being promoted again to his current role as Guizhou party boss in 2015."This is a person you certainly should pay a lot of attention to ... Xi Jinping really paved the way for his promotion," said Cheng Li, an expert on Chinese elite politics at the Brookings Institution. "He's known not only for his close ties with Xi but he's also a popular leader both in Zhejiang and Guizhou, so that puts him on a very fast track for promotion."
China's State Council Information Office, which doubles as the spokesman's office for the cabinet and the party, and the Guizhou government did not respond to requests for comment.TOP PRIZE
For decades, Guizhou was one of China's most backward provinces, but in recent years the central government has poured in billions of yuan, with a focus on poverty alleviation and big data.
Guizhou's economy almost doubled between 2012 and last year, when it recorded the second-highest growth among China's 31 provinces and municipalities, and Chen has not been reticent in drawing attention to either his achievements or connections."Chen actually says he is close to Xi," said one China-based diplomat who has met him.Other allies of Xi seen as possible contenders include Li Zhanshu, who heads the party's general office, and Zhao Leji, head of the Organisation Department, which oversees personnel decisions.Another Xi lieutenant, top corruption buster Wang Qishan, who is already on the PSC, could be kept on despite having passed the unofficial retirement age of 68.The PSC is ostensibly chosen by a vote in the Central Committee, but results are typically preordained by an opaque process involving horsetrading between the president, outgoing standing committee members, and party elders who remain influential.
If Xi does prove strong enough to appoint Chen to the PSC, it could be at the expense of candidates from rival factions, such as Guangdong party chief Hu Chunhua, from the Communist Youth League grouping close to former-president Hu Jintao, or Sun Zhengcai, who runs the metropolis of Chongqing.Chongqing, however, was criticised by the party's anti-corruption watchdog this month for not doing enough to root out the influence of the city's former party chief Bo Xilai, jailed for life for a graft scandal in 2013.Two-time Politburo member Wang Yang, a vice-premier from the Youth League faction, is also a contender.Sun and Hu are also Politburo members, which puts them theoretically ahead of Chen in the pecking order, but there are plenty of high-profile examples of fast-rising cadres being groomed for the top with a jump from the Central Committee straight to PSC.Both Xi and Premier Li Keqiang were fast-tracked in this fashion at the 17th party congress in 2007, as was former president Hu at the 14th congress in 1992.If Chen makes the leap, that could leave the ultimate prize within his grasp when Xi steps down. (Reporting by Philip Wen and Benjamin Kang Lim; Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Will Waterman)
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Lahore: Police on Friday said that about 1,300 suspected militants were arrested in a sweep of hideouts in Pakistan's largest province of Punjab. The roughly two-week operation comes despite the provincial law minister's defence of some groups designated as terrorist organisations and banned by Pakistan but resurrected under new names. Rana Sanaullah also embraced some sectarian leaders whose groups have been accused of fomenting violence against minority Islamic sects, raising questions about his commitment to ridding Punjab of militants.
Two police officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the operations, said another 36 militants died in shootouts with police and in paramilitary operations since the sweep began last month. In an interview with The Associated Press, however, Sanaullah questioned the label of terrorist for anti-Indian militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, which has resurfaced as Jamaat-ud-Daawa.
Last month, Pakistan placed Hafiz Saeed, a declared terrorist with a US-imposed USD 10 million bounty on his head, under house arrest, yet Sanaullah questioned allegations against Saeed, who is connected mostly to militant attacks in Kashmir.
"They are related to Kashmir. They feel Indian brutality in Kashmir is unacceptable," he said of Saeed and his followers, adding that Pakistan's courts have twice freed Saeed saying there was no evidence of his involvement in terrorism activities. Saeed is among India's most wanted and is accused of masterminding attacks inside India and Kashmir. "Why is the world not concerned about India's violence in Kashmir?" Sanaullah asked. "There is no evidence of Saeed's involved in state terrorism."
In an interview, Saeed's spokesman Yahya Mujahed denied Saeed's affiliation with the outlawed Lashkar-e-Taiba. Analysts and critics say the Punjab provincial government is sheltering sectarian and jihadi groups headquartered in its most populous province, while using the crackdown to target ethnic Pashtuns from tribal regions that border Afghanistan.
Beirut: Syrian troops backed by Russian jets completed the recapture of the historic city of Palmyra from the Islamic State group on Thursday, the Kremlin and the army said, in another blow to the jihadists.
Bolstered by air strikes and ground troops from their ally Moscow, Syrian forces battled through the desert for weeks to reach Palmyra.
The oasis city has traded hands several times during Syria's six-year civil war and become a symbol of Islamic State's wanton destruction of priceless cultural heritage in areas under its control.
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed President Vladimir Putin of Palmyra's recapture, a Kremlin spokesman told news agencies in Moscow.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based monitoring group, said that the jihadists had totally withdrawn from the desert city but not before mining several areas.
"The Syrian army is still clearing neighbourhoods of mines and has not spread out into the whole city yet," said its director, Rami Abdel Rahman.
An army statement carried on state news agency SANA said its forces had "regained control over Palmyra and surrounding territory after a series of successful military operations".
Islamic State has suffered a string of setbacks since taking over swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria in 2014, and its two main strongholds of Mosul and Raqa both face assaults by forces backed by a US-led coalition.
The jihadists first seized Palmyra in May 2015 and began to systematically destroy and loot the Unesco world heritage site's monuments and temples.
They were driven out in March 2016 but recaptured the city in December when the government was focused on seizing rebel-held east Aleppo.
Before Islamic State first entered the city, Palmyra boasted temples, colonnaded alleys and elaborately decorated tombs that were among the best preserved classical monuments in the Middle East.
But many of the structures have been destroyed and much of the heritage looted for sale on the black market.
Moscow's support has been key in the Syrian army's Palmyra push, and its warplanes continued to bombard Islamic State positions inside and near the city today, the Observatory reported.
A decades-old ally of Damascus, Moscow launched an air campaign in September 2015 in support of President Bashar al-Assad's forces.
After losing ground in the early years of the war, Assad's regime has regained significant territory including by pushing rebel forces out of second city Aleppo last year thanks in large part to Russian support.
PARIS A teenager who attacked a Jewish teacher in France with a machete was sentenced to seven years in jail on Thursday by a French juvenile court, judicial sources said.The 17-year-old was convicted at a closed-doors trial for slightly wounding the teacher who was wearing a traditional Jewish skullcap, or yarmulke, while walking to school in January 2016 in the southern city of Marseille.Prosecutor Brice Robin said shortly after the attack that the teenager, who has not been identified because of his age, said he had acted in the name of the Islamic State militant group.The teenager, a Turkish citizen of Kurdish origin, was 15 at the time of the attack. He was charged with attempted murder in connection with a terrorist attack, with the aggravating factor of anti-semitism.
The head of the Jewish community in Marseille advised Jews in the city soon after the attack to avoid wearing the kippa (yarmulke) in the streets. "It really hurts to reach that point but I don't want anyone to die in Marseille because they have a kippa on their head," Zvi Ammar told La Provence daily.
France is home to both the largest Jewish and the largest Muslim populations in Europe.Islamic State has claimed responsibility for a number of large-scale attacks in France, including a truck attack that killed 86 people in the Riviera resort of Nice in July 2016 and a coordinated series of attacks in Paris in November 2015 in which 130 people were killed.
(Reporting by Chine Labbe; Editing by Adrian Croft and Pritha Sarkar)
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By Tulay Karadeniz
| ANKARA
ANKARA Turkish leaders condemned Germany on Friday for cancelling rallies of Turkish residents due to be addressed by Ankara's ministers and accused Berlin of giving "shelter" to Turkey's enemies.As the diplomatic spat between the two countries became increasingly angry, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said a German journalist being held in Turkey was a "German agent" and a member of an armed Kurdish militant group.A source in Germany's foreign ministry on Friday night told Reuters those accusations were "absurd". Earlier, comments in Berlin by Turkey's Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag, who had been scheduled to address a meeting in the southwestern town of Gaggenau until it was cancelled on Thursday, reflected a broader souring of relations between the two NATO allies. "Let them look back at their history," Bozdag said in a speech. "We see the old illnesses flaring up." The city of Cologne also blocked an event where Turkey's Economy Minister Nihat Zeybecki was to speak on Sunday. Police said shortly after that a second gathering he had been due to attend in the western town of Frechen was also cancelled.Zeybecki said he still planned to go to Germany."We say the victory is God's...I will go from cafe to cafe, house to house," he said. "Nobody should worry, we will still meet with our citizens in Germany."Chancellor Angela Merkel, speaking in Tunis, said her government had played no part in steps taken by city councils who, according to one mayor, acted purely on security grounds.She renewed her criticism of Turkey's arrest of Deniz Yucel, a correspondent for German newspaper Die Welt."We support freedom of expression and we can criticise Turkey," she told reporters.
The German foreign ministry urged Ankara to refrain from "pouring oil on the fire".GERMANY "ABETTING TERRORISM"
Erdogan said in Ankara the cause of the tensions between the two countries was Germany's support for Turkey's enemies."It isn't because a correspondent of Die Welt was arrested," Erdogan told an awards ceremony in Istanbul."It is because this person hid in the German embassy as a member of the PKK and a German agent for one month. When we told them to hand him over to be tried, they refused."
"So, they won't let our justice minister and economy minister speak," Erdogan added."They need to be tried for helping and abetting terrorism."Gaggenau would have been part of efforts to garner support among 1.5 million Turkish citizens for an April referendum expanding Erdogan's powers - something he has sought with increased urgency since an army bid to topple him.Erdogan has accused West European countries of failing to condemn the July putsch quickly or strongly enough. West European countries have expressed concern about his subsequent crackdown on journalists, judiciary, academics and others.On Friday evening the Dutch government said plans by Turkish authorities to hold a referendum campaign rally in Rotterdam were "undesirable".
The leader of an association of Dutch Turks said Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu was planning to attend the March 11 rally, hoping to persuade the Netherlands' hundreds of thousands of dual citizens to vote for the new constitution giving Erdogan greater powers.Authorities in Gaggenau evacuated the city hall for hours on Friday after receiving a bomb threat, its mayor told n-tv German television. Asked if it was linked to the cancellation, mayor Michael Pfeiffer said: "We presume this at the moment, but we don't know for sure."In a phone call between Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel, the ministers agreed to meet in Germany on March 8 to discuss tensions between the two countries, foreign ministry sources in Ankara said.Journalist Yucel, a German-Turkish dual national, is charged with propaganda in support of a terrorist organisation. The German foreign ministry said it had not yet been granted consular access to Yucel or five other Germans arrested since the July 15 coup attempt.German Justice Minister Heiko Maas sent Bozdag a sharply worded letter after Bozdag cancelled their Thursday meeting."When journalists, judges and attorneys are arrested simply because they are doing their jobs, simply because they are fulfilling their role in a constitutional state, then each arrest marks a degradation of the rule of law," he wrote. "It is the role of the state to protect journalists and not burden them with repressive measures."Erdogan accuses an exiled cleric of masterminding the coup, describing his organisation as the FETO terrorist group. Turkey also complains that Germany and other West European countries give succour to militant leftists and PKK Kurdish militants.Germany is wary of rising tensions, seeking continued Turkish commitment to arrangements preventing large movements of refugees from Turkey to Europe. (Additional reporting by Andrea Shalal in Berlin, Andreas Rinke in Tunis and Tuvan Gumrukcu in Ankara; editing by Andrew Roche)
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Kharkiv tractor factory is starting to emerge from the blockade of components supply organized by Russia, Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko has said.
"Today we have discussed in detail with the management [of Kharkiv tractor factory]: we are starting import substitution, we are beginning to emerge out of that blockade of the components supply which was organized by Russia," Poroshenko said at Kharkiv tractor factory on Friday.
According to the president, they discussed the possibility of replacing engines produced at Yaroslavl Motor Plant with German-produced DEUTZ engines and Chinese engines.
"Those who cannot afford DEUTZ, may be offered Chinese-produced [engines]. We talked about having a credit program with our Chinese partners for the supply of engineering products. Why not create synergy? So that they [engines] could be afforded by Ukrainian farmers and would help create orders for Ukrainian machine builders," Poroshenko said.
By Yeganeh Torbati
| WASHINGTON
WASHINGTON The U.S. State Department released its annual report on human rights around the world on Friday, but the release was overshadowed by criticism that Secretary of State Rex Tillerson gave the report little of the traditional attention or fanfare.Tillerson declined to unveil the report in person, breaking with precedent established during both Democratic and Republican administrations. A senior U.S. official answered reporters' questions by phone on condition of anonymity rather than appearing on camera, also a break with precedent."The report speaks for itself," the official said in response to a question about why Tillerson did not unveil it. "We're very, very proud of it. The facts should really be the story here."The report, mandated by Congress, documents human rights conditions in nearly 200 countries and territories and is put together by staff in U.S. embassies. This year's report was largely completed during former President Barack Obama's tenure.According to the report, Philippine police and vigilantes "killed more than 6,000 suspected drug dealers and users" since July and extrajudicial killings have "increased sharply" in the Philippines in the last year. Philippine officials say their government does not tolerate human rights violations or state-sponsored extrajudicial killings.The report's language on Russia remained broadly similar to that of years past, noting the country's "authoritarian political system dominated by President Vladimir Putin."President Donald Trump has said he would like to improve U.S. relations with Russia.
Traditionally, the secretary of state unveils the report with public comments emphasizing the centrality of human rights in U.S. foreign policy and highlighting specific findings.Tillerson's Democratic predecessors John Kerry and Hillary Clinton gave public comments on the report in 2013 and 2009, their first years in the post, respectively, and continued to present it throughout their tenures. In 2005, during Republican President George W. Bush's administration, the undersecretary of state for global affairs, Paula Dobriansky, presented the report on camera on behalf of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.So far in his one-month tenure, Tillerson has not held a news conference and has mostly refrained from answering questions from the media.
Human rights groups criticized the way the report was rolled out."It's just signalling a lack of basic interest and understanding in how support for human rights reflects what's best about America," said Rob Berschinski, senior vice president for policy at Human Rights First.Berschinski was deputy assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour until Jan. 20, and helped coordinate the report.
On Friday, the U.S. official quoted from Tillerson's confirmation hearing to offer proof that he views human rights conditions as crucial to U.S. interests, adding, "These statements are very clear about our commitment to human rights."In the introduction to this year's report, Tillerson wrote "our values are our interests when it comes to human rights."But in his confirmation hearing, Tillerson sidestepped questions on human rights conditions in other countries, declining to condemn countries like Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, saying he wanted to see the facts first.Republican Senator Marco Rubio on Thursday criticized the low-key rollout of the report."For 1st time in a long time @StateDept #humanrights report will not be presented by Secretary of State," Rubio tweeted. "I hope they reconsider." (Additional reporting by Matt Spetalnick and David Brunnstrom; Editing by Yara Bayoumy and Leslie Adler)
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By Phil Stewart, Mohammed and Mukhashaf
| WASHINGTON/ADEN, Yemen
WASHINGTON/ADEN, Yemen The United States carried out a second day of air strikes against al Qaeda in Yemen on Friday, U.S. officials said, in the latest sign of increasing U.S. military focus on a group whose strength has grown during Yemen's civil war.Since a January commando raid, the United States has shown a desire to both strike al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and to recover from what U.S. officials acknowledge has been an intelligence shortfall about the group since Yemen's civil war forced the closure of the U.S. Embassy in 2015. "We have a lot of gaps in our understanding of the organisation," a U.S. defence official said, adding the pullout of U.S. personnel two years ago "certainly did not help our understanding of the situation."Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis said at a news briefing that the United States had carried out more than 30 strikes over the past two days in Shabwah, Abyan and Al Bayda provinces. The U.S. military did not disclose how many al Qaeda fighters were killed on Friday although Reuters reported that Thursday's strikes, using manned and unmanned aircraft, left at least nine militants dead. The U.S. military did not rule out further strikes in the days ahead."I don't want to telegraph future operations but this is part of a plan to go after this very real threat and ensure they are defeated," Davis said at a Pentagon news briefing.VITAL INTELLIGENCE?America's military strategy in Yemen has become a political lightning rod issue after the late January raid against AQAP, authorized by President Donald Trump, resulted in the death of one of the commandos, U.S. Navy SEAL William "Ryan" Owens.
Critics questioned the value of the mission. That prompted a fierce rebuttal from Trump, who said during a televised address to Congress that "large amounts of vital intelligence" was seized in the operation. Trump's speech featured a standing ovation for Owens' widow.The U.S. defence official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity on Friday, shied away from describing the intelligence as "vital," saying that was a subjective term.The official said the intelligence was "good" and "potentially actionable," suggesting that phone numbers and other information about AQAP's network seized in January would require analysis or development before leading to new U.S. strikes or raids."It's definitely helping us understand the network and further develop it out ... This has been good information," the official said, adding the United States seized "an awful lot of telephone numbers."Strikes over the past two days have not been based on intelligence from the January raid, the Pentagon says.
After its pullout in 2015, the U.S. military started returning to Yemen in small numbers last year to support a successful April push orchestrated by the United Arab Emirates, with support from Saudi Arabia, that ejected AQAP from Mukalla, home of Yemen's third largest port, where AQAP had raised tens of millions of dollars. The U.S. defence official said losing Mukalla degraded AQAP but also cautioned the group did not leave its money or many of its recruits behind.GUN BATTLES
Residents told Reuters on Friday that U.S. air strikes were accompanied by gun battles, which they thought involved U.S. soldiers on the ground in Yemen.The Pentagon denied U.S. involvement in any ground combat and it was unclear if one of the United States' Gulf allies might have been engaged in gun battles.U.S. intelligence and military officials still view AQAP as a real threat to the United States, as do allies like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.The group has plotted to down U.S. airliners and claimed responsibility for 2015 attacks on the office of Charlie Hebdo magazine in Paris. AQAP also has boasted of the world's most feared bomb makers, Ibrahim Hassan al-Asiri, and the Pentagon estimates it has between about 2,000 and 3,000 fighters.The defence official said the group was well armed and U.S. strikes since Thursday have included AQAP's heavy weapons."We would expect that they certainly have light anti-aircraft and they possibly have MANPADS, that is a possibility we have seen," the official said, referring man-portable air defence systems.Davis noted that al Qaeda, even more than the Iraq- and Syria-based Islamic State, had U.S. blood on its hands.In 2000, al Qaeda bombers steered a boat full of explosives into the side of the USS Cole, a U.S. Navy destroyer, while it refuelled in the Yemeni port of Aden, killing 17 U.S. sailors and wounding about three dozen others. (Writing by Katie Paul and Phil Stewart; Reporting by Mohammed Mukhashaf in Aden and Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali in Washington; Editing by Bill Trott and James Dalgleish)
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Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has stated he is ready to help Kharkiv Tractor Plant seek new markets and restructure debts to the budget.
"This is the road to both ways. On our part, we help find new markets, define and restructure debts to the budget and repay it if there is a need for this. We do everything to return high-quality products to the Ukrainian market, while the investor has to face people and explain what he is doing," Poroshenko said.
He talked with the workers and they confirmed the investor, DCH President Oleksandr Yaroslavsky, has fully paid wage arrears.
"I walked along the conveyor, talked with the workers. All they said there are no wage arrears. Moreover, the advance money has been paid," Poroshenko said.
"The only thing I asked was what the wage is, but not everyone responded. But yet it is somewhat 'modest.' But we've agreed that there is the presidential order by the end of the year to double wages," the president added.
Apple has expanded its ongoing legal battle against Qualcomm by adding a new lawsuit in the U.K, according to a report from Bloomberg. This is the third patent lawsuit by Apple against Qualcomm this year.
At the beginning of this year, Apple filed a $1 billion lawsuit against Qualcomm saying that Qualcomm has been charging royalties for technologies they have nothing to do with. In the same month, the company filed second lawsuit against Qualcomm at the Beijing Intellectual Property Court in China seeking 1 billion yuan ($145.32 million) in damages.
The details about the latest UK lawsuit are minimal at the moment but as per the report are related to patents and design. Apple did not say anything about the latest lawsuit and provided the same statement as January.
Qualcomm built its business on older, legacy, standards but reinforces its dominance through exclusionary tactics and excessive royalties. Despite being just one of over a dozen companies who contributed to basic cellular standards, Qualcomm insists on charging Apple at least five times more in payments than all the other cellular patent licensors we have agreements with combined.
Source
Paytm E-Commerce, the online marketplace arm of One97 Communications is all set to raise $200 million from Chinese e-commerce major Alibaba, along with investment firm SAIF Partners, as per a latest PTI report.
Alibaba Singapore E-Commerce Pvt Ltd will invest $177 million in Paytm E-Commerce Pvt Ltd, the demerged unit of digital payments company, One 97 Communications that operates under Paytm brand. The remaining $23 million will be invested by SAIF Partners. The investment will give Alibaba access to Paytm merchants and logistics partners. Alibaba Singapore E-Commerce will have a shareholding of 36.31%, while SAIF Partners India will own 4.66 % in Paytm e-commerce, post the investment.
Last year, Paytm had split its e-commerce business from its larger payments unit to create two separate entities-Paytm E-Commerce and Paytm Payments Bank Ltd. One97 Communications has three units: Paytm e-commerce, Paytm Payments Bank (payments bank and mobile wallet service) and Paytm Mobile Solutions.
Alibaba has been expected to foray into Indian e-commerce market since last year. If the company enters India it will compete directly with Amazon India and Flipkart. The latest funding news comes only days after Paytm launched a standalone online shopping portal Paytm Mall.
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Employees of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) have detained the head of the State Fiscal Service Roman Nasirov in Feofaniya hospital. Nasirov is under investigation for corruption in the so-called "gas case."
"Yes, it's true. Nasirov was arrested as part of the investigation of the gas case," the NABU press service told Interfax-Ukraine.
Sources, close to the NABU, told the agency that the searches were carried out on Thursday at the State Fiscal Service by the NABU. The Specialized anti-corruption prosecutor's office (SAPO) is also involved in the probe, which is looking into the restructuring of rent payments for gas production companies associated with Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine deputy Oleksandr Onyshchenko.
MP Tetiana Chornovol earlier said orders for installment payments were personally signed by head of the State Fiscal Service Roman Nasirov.
Nasirov himself stated that it was common practice and such installments were received by more than half of participants of the oil and gas market.
Nasirov responsible for about UAH 2 bln in losses to state budget, PGO will call for his sacking
Investigators believe actions by the head of Ukraine's State Fiscal Service Roman Nasirov resulted in the loss of about UAH 2 billion to the state budget. Ukraine's Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) will recommend Nasirov's sacking, head of the PGO's Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) Nazar Kholodyntsky has said.
Kholodnytsky said Nasirov acted in the interests of Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine deputy Oleksandr Onyshchenko in the so-called "gas case" and authorized delayed payments for a number of enterprises.
He said SAPO will check the circumstances under which Nasirov was served a notice of suspicion on Thursday evening and why the doctor at the Feofaniya hospital, where Nasirov is currently located, did not permit SAPO agents from visiting him there.
"The SAPO prosecutor was not allowed access to Nasirov. An agent of the National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine served him notice. I am waiting for information from detectives about what happened. I read on the Internet reports that he was unconscious and am checking these reports," Kholodytsky said.
The SAPO chief said serving notice to Nasirov does not mean he is a suspect, adding that NABU has two months to conduct a pretrial investigation of the case.
SAPO's press service said that during the evening on March 2, 2017 NABU detectives, acting on an order received from SAPO, served Nasirov notice of suspicion of his involvement in crimes pursuant to Part 2 of Article 364 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (misuse of public office resulting in significant negative consequences).
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Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets since Donald Trump won the presidential election.
But a majority of voters would tell protesters: its time to move on. Thats according to a Fox News Poll of registered voters released Thursday.
The poll asks, What message would you like to send to people who are protesting President Trump and his policies? Over half, 53 percent, would tell them its time to move on, while 44 percent would implore them dont give up the fight.
Not surprisingly, these results are highly partisan. Fully 81 percent of Democrats want the protesters to keep fighting, while even more Republicans (87 percent) say its time to move on.
Some of the most widely publicized protests center on women, who voted for Hillary Clinton over Trump by a 13-point margin (54-41 percent), according to the Fox News exit poll. Those rallies include the Womens March the day after President Trump was inaugurated and next Wednesdays, A Day Without A Woman strike.
However, women are split on protesting Trump: 49 percent would tell protesters to move on and 48 percent would say dont give up. That divide comes from 83 percent of Democratic women falling in the keep fighting column, while 88 percent of Republican women feel the opposite.
By a 57-38 percent margin, men say its time to move on. Men backed Trump in the election by an 11-point margin (52-41 percent).
Overall, about one in seven voters (14 percent) say theyve taken part in a protest or demonstration since the election.
More voters have taken action in other ways. One in three has contacted a public official (33 percent) and about one in five has contributed money to a political cause or candidate (22 percent) since the election.
About three in ten Democrats (29 percent) and those backing Clinton (31 percent) have participated in a protest versus hardly any Republicans (2 percent) or Trump voters (1 percent).
Democrats are twice as likely (30 percent) as Republicans (15 percent) and independents (17 percent) to have made a political contribution. Similarly, 43 percent of Democrats report contacting a public official compared to about one quarter of Republicans (24 percent) and independents (26 percent).
The Fox News poll is based on landline and cellphone interviews with 1,013 randomly chosen registered voters nationwide and was conducted under the joint direction of Anderson Robbins Research (D) and Shaw & Company Research (R) from February 11-13, 2017. The poll has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus three percentage points for all registered voters.
Over the past day the militants shelled Ukrainian positions 116 times in the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) zone, which resulted in 15 wounded soldiers, seven injured, and one killed soldier, the press center of the ATO headquarters said on its Facebook page on Friday morning.
"A total of 116 attacks have been recorded. Some 15 Ukrainian military have been wounded, seven injured, one killed," a statement says.
In the Mariupol sector the enemy employed BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launchers in the direction of our positions in Vodiane. A tank was applied in Hnutove area, mortars fired on Krasnohorivka, Novotroyitske, Vodiane and Hnutove. Grenade launchers and small arms were used to attack Shyrokyne, Starohnativka, Lebedynske, Maryinka and Talakivka. Shyrokyne, Lebedynske and Maryinka were shot by a sniper, while Novohryhorivka and Hnutove - by infantry combat vehicles.
In the Luhansk sector, Novozvanivka and Lysychansk were under fire from 152-mm artillery. The militants used mortars of various calibres to shell Novo-Oleksandrivka, Novotoshkivske, Novozvanivka, Katerynivka, Krymske and Malynove.
In the Donetsk sector a tank and mortars of 120-mm and 82 mm calibers shelled at Avdiyivka, Novoluhanske, Zaitseve, Pisky and Butovka mine. Ukrainian positions in Opytne, Pisky and Kamyanka areas were fired on from rocket-propelled grenades. Infantry combat vehicle was used to attack Luhanske, firearms were applied to attack Mayorske and Nevelske. Kamyanka, Novhorodske and Novotroyitske were under the sniper's fire. Anti-aircraft guns fired on Troyitske and Avdiyivka.
When the nation is divided on seemingly every issue, its no surprise many voters feel the jitters.
Sixty percent say theyre nervous about American politics today. And thats after the election helped settle some anxieties: last March, 82 percent felt nervous.
On the flip side, the number saying theyre confident has tripled: 33 percent, compared to only 11 percent last year.
Thats according to a Fox News Poll conducted prior to President Trumps address to Congress Tuesday.
Check out this Trump effect: In 2016, roughly equal numbers, about 8 in 10, of both Democrats (80 percent) and Republicans (84 percent) felt uneasy about politics. Now, 92 percent of Democrats and just 29 percent of Republicans are nervous. Thats a 63-point gap.
Anxiety among independents is down 28 points, from 82 percent a year ago vs. 54 percent now.
In addition, more people are focusing on Washington these days. About nine times as many voters say theyre paying more attention to politics rather than less attention (52-6 percent). Another 42 percent say theres no change.
Meanwhile, three-in-four voters (77 percent) say the 2016 election made them more likely to vote in the next presidential election. That includes 80 percent of both Democrats and Republicans, and 66 percent of independents.
The Fox News poll is based on landline and cellphone interviews with 1,013 randomly chosen registered voters nationwide and was conducted under the joint direction of Anderson Robbins Research (D) and Shaw & Company Research (R) from February 11-13, 2017. The poll has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus three percentage points for all registered voters.
A group of law enforcement leaders are standing up to President Trumps immigration policy calling for local police to be excluded from enforcing immigration laws.
The 63 police chiefs and sheriffs that make up the Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force issued a letter saying the cities they police should not be penalized for sanctuary immigration policies.
Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke said the statement issued by the Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force is disappointing.
Sanctuary cities provide a safe haven for criminal illegal aliens involved in some very heinous crimes against members of the community. Look, you cant have it both ways if they dont want to participate, he said.
According to Clarke, it is part of the law enforcement officers code of ethics to cooperate with other law enforcement agencies in the pursuit of justice.
I have an obligation to protect the law-abiding people of my community. Weve had criminal illegal aliens in Milwaukee County that have been involved in some very serious crimes, including drunk driving that has led to deaths, things like that, he said.
When illegal immigrants commit crimes, Clarke said other illegals dont report them for fear of being discovered themselves.
Were seeing underreporting of domestic abuse, child abuse, sexual assaultthings like thatbecause if youre in the country illegally you say I cant call the police because they might discover me. That allows the criminal illegal alien to continue to victimize these folks over and over and over again, Clarke said.
The Milwaukee County Sheriff said the statement made by the Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force is a disservice to the communities and people they serve.
You cannot allow people to cross your borders, come into your country illegally and set up residence and thats what this is doing, he said.
When asked if he would consider a possible Senate run, Sheriff Clarke said, Thats a big decision. I havent made that decision. I never say never, but at the same time thats not real high on the priorities.
Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft says the political storm surrounding Attorney General Jeff Sessions reminds him of the way Democrats targeted his father, John Ashcroft, during his time as Attorney General in the administration of President George W. Bush.
"I think that weve had a prior [Obama] administration that is concerned that the truth is coming out about what theyve done and about how they acted. Now we have people that are focused on the truth and governing and the rule of law and theyre scared, Ashcroft told the FOX Business Networks Stuart Varney.
Sessions announced he would recuse himself from any potential investigation into Russias role in the 2016 presidential race and contacts with the Trump campaign team as the controversy mounts over Sessions' meetings with the Russian Ambassador.
Ashcroft said he believes the controversy is overblown. "This is the silly season of politics. The opposition party has been pushed out of power by a President thats focused on governing and making America greater for the people of the country and the opposition party just has to play partisan politics.
Politics, Ashcroft said, means Sessions' decision to recuse himself likely has not diminished Democratic opposition. "This has never been about truth or what logically should happen. Jeff Sessions, Attorney General Sessions, is an honorable individual that has done whats right for the people of this state, the people of this nation and he will continue to do that...this isnt about the truth, this is about appearances, this is about politics, partisan politics.
President Trump showed support for a merit-based immigration system used by Australia and Canada on Friday.
The president sent out a tweet showing his support for the immigration system after watching Green Card Warrior author Nick Adams on Fox News Channels Fox and Friends.
Nick Adams new book, Green Card Warrior, is a must read. The merit-based system is the way to go. Canada, Australia! @foxandfriends Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 3, 2017
During an interview on FOX Business Networks The Intelligence Report, Adams said he is in favor of a strategic immigration system that will reward individuals who will culturally assimilate and economically contribute to the United States.
If this is going to remain the best country in the world, we gotta make sure that only the best can come, he said.
The Australian-born author said the current immigration policy towards families of U.S. citizens should be changed to ensure America will no longer be used by immigrants.
We want people to come to America that are going to be American, that are going to understand and appreciate the virtues and the values that catapulted this nation to the pinnacle one on this earth, Adams said.
According to Adams, the merit-based system is a common sense approach that emphasizes patriotism and traditional values.
We are basically saying that this is our country. We are going to determine who comes to this country and the circumstances under which they come. We want to make it really, really easy for good people to come and impossible for bad people to come, he said.
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When Autumn Reeser was asked to play Leslie Bellcamp, a no-nonsense Hollywood agent who refuses to slow down despite being heavily pregnant, she jumped at the chance.
I thought the contrast between a woman whos very aggressively pursuing her career in this hyper-masculine world and was simultaneously eight months pregnant was a really fun contrast for me to play, explained the 36-year-old actress on her new role for E!s The Arrangement.
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It was fun," she told us. "It says a lot about who she is as a character and as a woman.
The new scripted series follows a young actress name Megan Morrison (Christine Evangelista), who auditions for a major summer movie alongside top Hollywood action movie star Kyle West (Josh Henderson). When Megans audition leads to a first date with Kyle, shes then presented with a marriage contract created by Terence (Michael Vartan), Kyles mentor and leader of the Institute for the Higher Mind.
LEAH REMINI SAYS TOM CRUISE COULD 'SINGLE-HANDEDLY' END SCIENTOLOGY
The upcoming series has since stirred headlines for reportedly being inspired by Scientology and Tom Cruises marriage to Katie Holmes, but the cast has since dismissed those claims. Reeser said the show has a different message that many people can easily identify with.
What I can say is that I think [The Arrangement] is exploring what is that line between truth and what people want you to believe is true, she said. Those can be two different things and I think we see that in social media all the time. Its a huge thing right now. I think this is something that affects peoples lives. Like, what are you putting out there to the world? Are you really putting out whats going on in your life or are you putting out a fake version of your life to be consumed? And thats the playing field were on in the show.
She added, This is something everyone is dealing with in their own lives. Everyone.
The show also helped Reeser discover something new, and it had nothing to do with the controversial religion.
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This woman [Leslie Bellcamp] is not afraid of what other people think of her and is extremely assertive, she said. Im not great with conflict in my own life, [but] you always learn something from the character when you are forced to stretch yourself in that way. Im actually more comfortable with conflict now after playing this character.
Reeser reminisced about another exciting time in her career. She previously starred in the popular teen drama The O.C., which ran from 2003 to 2007.
I think the writing on The O.C. was really, really smart, said Reeser, explaining why fans are still fascinated with the show even though it ended 10 years ago. And it was different for that time. I think for my character, she was awkward and didnt fit in, but was fully OK with who she was as a person, and to be able to put all those things in this character is what resonates with people.
'THE O.C.' CANCELLED DUE TO LOW RATINGS
Reeser said that she still sees her former castmates every now and then, but fans shouldnt hold their breath for a reboot anytime soon, as some classic sitcoms have experienced with the help of Netflix.
I dont think its likely, but I would certainly be open to it if it happens, she said.
"The Arrangement" debuts March 5 on E!.
Arnold Schwarzenegger has terminated his involvement with "Celebrity Apprentice."
Schwarzenegger said in an interview that he's riding off into the sunset after hosting a single season of the reality show, a lawyer for the actor told Fox News.
The news comes after Schwarzenegger's stint on the NBC show was plagued by poor ratings and recent reports that sponsors were ending their relationships with the show because of its continued links to it its former host, President Donald Trump, who remains a credited producer.
The "Terminator" star said he would not return to the show even if if he was asked to return, but NBC has yet to announce if they will even be renewing the show. The network did not return Fox News' request for comment.
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"With Trump being involved in the show people have a bad taste and don't want to participate as a spectator or as a sponsor or in any other way support the show," Schwarzenegger told EmpireOnline.com. "It's a very divisive period now and I think this show got caught up in all that division."
The Wrap reported that half of the show's sponsors have bailed out after recent boycott threats. An online campaign called #GrabYourWallet, which is encouraging sponsors to pass on the reality TV series due to President Trumps involvement, reportedly prompted six of the series 12 corporate backers from last season to not return.
"When people found out that Trump was still involved as executive producer and was still receiving money from the show, then half the people [started] boycotting it," Schwarzenegger said.
While Trump no longer hosts Celebrity Apprentice, he does hold the title of executive producer. His spokesperson Hope Hicks confirmed in 2016 that Trump also maintained a financial interest in the franchise.
Representatives of 17 countries have taken part in the main conference on the planning of the Ukrainian-American drills Sea Breeze 2017.
The purpose of this year drills is to conduct a multinational security operations in a crisis region, the press center of the command of the Naval Forces of Ukraine said on Friday.
"During the conference we have worked out a detailed plan and scenario of maneuvers, identified a potential of participants, coordinated interaction of sea, land and air components, reviewed the areas where the exercises will be conducted [...] We have worked out the structure of the staff with the involvement of foreign experts, which will be similar to the respective NATO headquarters'," the press center quoted the chief of exercises leadership Staff Sea Breeze - 2017 from the Ukrainian side, Kostiantyn Plakhotniuk, as saying.
The press center also stressed that the number of participants of the main conference surpassed similar events in previous years, reflecting an increase of interest in the series of drills Sea Breeze from the international community.
The event, which lasted four days in Odesa, was attended by representatives of Ukraine, the U.S., Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bulgaria, Greece, Georgia, Great Britain, France, Canada, Moldova, Germany, Norway, Poland, Romania, Sweden and Turkey.
Sea Breeze - 2017 is scheduled for this summer.
Ukrainian-American exercises of Sea Breeze series have been annually held since 1997 in accordance with the "Memorandum of understanding and cooperation on defense and military relations between the Ukrainian Defense Ministry and the U.S. Department of Defense" dated 1993. They are held for the purpose of training and capacity-readiness of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on a bilateral basis, but are also open to other countries.
Former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke is taking aim at Anthony Bourdain on Twitter-- but the outspoken celebrity chef is dishing it right back.
On Thursday night, the former Louisiana state representative retweeted a post originally shared by Counter Currents, a right-wing publishing house, in which they suggested that Bourdan made anti-white remarks during an episode of his Parts Unknown series on CNN.
NYC FOOD CRITIC BLASTS BOURDAIN FOR CITY'S FOOD TRUCK 'MENACES'
Exterminating the White race is the only hope, according to (((Anthony Bourdain))), wrote Duke, who then directed his followers to the original Counter Currents tweet, which contained a clip from the episode.
Exterminating the White race is the only hope, according to (((Anthony Bourdain))). For those who question #WhiteGenocide. Here it is. https://t.co/fnWV6Fkeev David Duke (@DrDavidDuke) March 3, 2017
Counter Currents original tweet contained a clip from the June 5, 2016 episode of Parts Unknown, which featured Bourdain chatting with German chef Rene Stessl about their countries respective attitudes toward accepting refugees. At one point, Stessl says his nation needs to be careful not to fall back into the same structure that gave birth to the Nazi regime.
But we kind of are, Bourdain replies. I dont mean here, necessarily, but [the U.S. is] well on our way.
Im allowed to be naive, and talk about Utiopia, said Stessl. Just the fact that the whole world will mix up with each other, that in, I dont know, 70, 80 years, there will be no white people anymore and only cappuccino-colored people. Its good.
THE WEEK IN PICTURES
Thats the only way, Bourdain responded. Its gonna take some time, but its really the only way. This sort of Singaporean model, where everybodys so mixed up that you really dont know who to hate, because everybodys so hopelessly intertwined. But were a long way from that.
In their original tweet, Counter Currents shared their own interpretation of Bourdains remarks, writing, #AnthonyBourdain tells the world that whites must replace Jews before Jews replace whites.
#AnthonyBourdain tells the world that whites must replace Jews before Jews replace whites. #NewRight https://t.co/vKL3vLDSVH Counter-Currents (@NewRightAmerica) March 3, 2017
Bourdain, meanwhile, became aware of Dukes retweet, and responded directly to Duke by clarifying his stance on genocide and extermination. Then, the 60-year-old chef and jiu-jitsu champion made his opinion of Duke very clear to his 5 million-plus Twitter following:
Genocide? Extermination? I'm against! But I'd be happy to rearrange your knee or other extremities. https://t.co/NrBDvlfc4u Anthony Bourdain (@Bourdain) March 3, 2017
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Duke has since responded on Twitter, accusing Bourdain of not actually being against genocide, solely based on his comments in the Parts Unknown episode.
You're not against it. In the clip you said the "only answer" was to breed the White race out of existence. That's genocide. Own it. https://t.co/jpgDfZwqiI David Duke (@DrDavidDuke) March 3, 2017
Bourdain has yet to respond to Duke's latest post on social media.
In recent weeks, Bourdain has also come under attack from New York City food critic Steve Cuozzo, who blames him for the influx of food carts within the city.
The latest cream flavor to come out of something called "the Oreo Wonder Vault" has consumers wondering why their poop suddenly looks like it could've come from a unicorn.
Two weeks ago, Oreo released a limited edition of its cookie with a vanilla shell and a filling flavored like the love-it-or-hate-it marshmallow candy Peeps, reports USA Today.
One reviewer claims the filling is the same one used in the Marshmallow Crispy Oreos, but with one major difference: It's bright pink and appears to turn your mouthand even your dungbright pink, too.
Parents Dont panic over pink poo or a bright pink tongue. Your kiddo probably ate those new Peeps flavored... https://t.co/2PFLiqqGhq 94.9 KLTY (@949KLTY) March 3, 2017
"My spit looks like Pepto-Bismol" hours after eating the cookies, one Twitter user complains, per Delish. Adds another, "My roommate ate a whole pack of Oreo Peeps and left a pink stain in the toilet." Indeed, some who ate a lot of cookies say the dye turned their feces various shades of pink, from "bright pink" to "reddish-pink," reports BuzzFeed; BuzzFeed employees who ate only one cookie say their bowel movements were no more colorful than usual.
While Oreo has yet to comment, USA Today previously reported that stuffing your face with foods heavy in dyes can produce "a greater spectrum in your rectal rainbow." In 2015, for example, people who ate a Halloween-themed Burger King Whopper with a black bun complained its concentrated dye made their excrement "as green as the Irish countryside." A doctor at the time suggested it was nothing to worry about.
Reddish stool should be checked by a doctor, though, as it could be a sign of internal bleeding. (Here are 5 ways to poop better.)
This article originally appeared on Newser: Peeps Oreos Have Rather Unfortunate Side Effects
Students from diverse ethnic backgrounds at the University of Cambridge have complained to the kitchen staff that some of the food served at the prestigious school misrepresents" their foreign culture.
Two dishes feeling the most heat outside the kitchen were a "Jamaican stew" and a "Tunisian rice," which students said were not typical of the dishes they ate at home, according to the Telegraph.
More than 20,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students attend Cambridge, with almost 8,000 international students representing over 120 different countries in that population.
8 'CULTURALLY APPROPRIATED' FOODS THAT ARE BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER
However, some students did not agree with the complaints and defended the universitys cuisine.
"You've got to be pretty privileged to have the time to sit and moan about the naming of the food you eat at one of the best universities in the world, said one student.
A minority student reportedly added, "While the Indian food in trough isn't straight from my Dadiki's karahi in a Mumbai highrise, I'm thankful to the Pembroke staff for at least trying.
"I urge people to look around and realise there's a lot more to life than complaining about fruity chicken. Grow up."
The comments first started on the schools Facebook page where one student wrote, "Dear Pembroke catering staff, stop mixing mango and beef and calling it 'Jamaican stew'. I'm actually half Jamaican pls show me where in the Caribbean they mix fruit and meat.
The student continued, "I'm used to as a minority student being constantly invalidated when flagging up specific issues but if people feel their cultures are misrepresented they have the right to address this.
"Microaggressions are a reality of the everyday existence of many people with colour [sic]."
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The complaints were again brought to light at a joint meeting with the universitys food committee and student representatives.
Pembroke College bursar Andrew Cates says the university will consider reevaluting its menu going forward.
As a college which prides itself on the high standard of its cuisine and wants all our students of diverse background to feel a valued part of our community, we encourage our catering staff to take the views of any of our students seriously, said Cates after the meeting.
The bottles might sport hula dancers, surfers and big waves but two California residents say the company that owns Kona Brewing Co. is misleading shoppers into believing theyre buying beer brewed in Hawaii.
In a lawsuit filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court of California Northern District, Sara Cilloni and Simone Zimmer allege that Craft Brew Alliance misleads consumers about the true origin of beers bearing the Kona Brewing Co. brand, reports West Hawaii Today.
SOME 'IMPORTED' BEERS ACTUALLY MADE IN THE US
In the suit, the plaintiffs say the company's use of hula dancers, surfers, the Kilauea volcano, Waikiki beach, and other images and phrases clearly associated with the Aloha State are deceiving customers into paying more for the craft ales.
The names of the beers such as Big Wave Golden Ale, Castaway IPA, Fire Rock Pale Ale and Longboard Island Lager also allegedly give off a deceptively Hawaiian vibe.
Despite the bottle imagery that hints at Hawaiian origin, nothing on the packaging makes it clear as to where the beer is actually brewed. According to the company's website, the fifth-largest U.S. craft brewer makes beer at facilities in New Hampshire, Oregon, Tennessee and Washington state-- and any beer sold in the upper 48 is brewed at one of these facilities.
However, Kona Brewing Co. does operate a flagship brew house in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii, but that facility only produces around 12,000 barrels of beer annually.
Although most of their beers are not brewed in Hawaii, according to Kona's website, the beer brewed at partner breweries is made with hops, malt and proprietary yeast from the island state. The mineral levels of the water used are also reportedly adjusted to replicate the water used in Hawaii. The website also claims that a sample from each batch of beer is sent to the Kailua-Kona brewery for sensory evaluation.
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The lawsuit is seeking class action status and unspecified damages for Kona purchasers in the state of California-- and nationwide-- over four years.
Kona isn't the only beermaker to come under fire for allegedly deceptive marketing practices. In Dec. 2015, a New York City man sued Fosters beer for allegedly deceiving him into thinking the company's beer brewed in Texas was actually made in Australia. And last summer, Anheuser-Busch agreed to settle a $50 million class action suit over allegations that it fooled customers into thinking Beck's beer was from Germany when the U.S. bottles are actually made in St. Louis now.
Craft Brew Alliance says it does not comment on pending litigation.
A French teen who underwent a first-of-its-kind procedure 15 months ago to change his DNA shows no signs of the sickle cell disease he had been suffering from. The procedure, which was performed at Necker Childrens Hospital in Paris, may offer hope to millions of patients who suffer from sickle cell disease, BBC News reported.
Sickle cell disease is a severe hereditary form of anemia, which causes patients to develop abnormal hemoglobin in red blood cells. The botched hemoglobin causes the cells to form a crescent or sickle shape, making it difficult to maneuver throughout the body. Sickle-shaped cells are less flexible, and may get stuck to vessel walls causing a blockage, which can stop blood flow to vital tissues.
Before undergoing the procedure, treatment for the unidentified teen included traveling to the hospital each month for a blood transfusion to dilute the defective blood, BBC News reported. According to the report, the excessive amount of treatment caused severe internal damage, and at age 13 he already needed a hip replacement and had his spleen removed.
In a world first, doctors at Necker Childrens Hospital removed his bone marrow and genetically altered it using a virus to compensate for the defect in his DNA responsible for sickle cell disease, BBC News reported. The results published in the New England Journal of Medicine said he no longer uses medication, and has been making normal blood for the past 15 months.
So far the patient has no sign of the disease, no pain, no hospitalization, Philippe Leboulch, professor of medicine at the University of Paris, told BBC News. He no longer requires a transfusion so we are quite pleased with that.
Doctors said the treatment will have to be repeated in other patients as the teen is the trials first, but that it does show powerful potential.
Ive worked in gene therapy for a long time and we make small steps and know theres years more work, Dr. Deborah Gill, of the gene medicine research group at the University of Oxford, told BBC News. But here you have someone who has received gene therapy and has complete clinical remission thats a huge step forward.
It was not clear how much the procedure would cost, or whether there are plans to expand to other countries.
It's no secret that people who have more sex are happier than those who rarely get lucky in the bedroom.
But, while you might think its obvious why, new research suggests another theory.
Youd be forgiven for thinking it was the joy of an orgasm that made those regularly getting laid happier but scientists have discovered thats not the whole answer.
While sex does make us happier, it is actually the post-coital cuddling that does the trick, rather than reaching climax itself.
A new study, published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, discovered that signs of affection and casual chatting was responsible for long-term happiness.
Psychologists in Canada and Switzerland looked beyond the bliss that orgasm brings to the expressions of affection both during and after sex.
It means couples who have sex even just once a week were happier, reports the British Psychological Society.
They surveyed 335 people who were in a relationship and asked them how often they had sex.
They were also quizzed on how much affection, such as hugging and kissing, was shown in their relationship.
And researchers asked them to rate their life satisfaction and how often they experienced joy and happiness.
Click for more from The Sun.
I just returned from a 2-week speaking tour of Asia. I spoke in front of hundreds of people in 5 countries about the Trump Phenomenon and what his election will mean for the world economy. I gave speeches in places such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Penang. What an experience of a lifetime!
First I must comment on the people of Asia. I met wonderful people. I was welcomed with open arms and treated like friends and family. This trip was one of the finest experiences of my life. The people I met will be friends for life. Many of my new friends are already making plans to visit me soon in Las Vegas.
This trip was proof positive that people all over the world want the same things as Americans- economic freedom, opportunity, mobility and prosperity. People all over the world crave lower taxes, less welfare and smaller government. Anyone who says otherwise is a liar.
Most importantly, this trip is proof positive that President Trump is on the right track and Democrats are in big trouble. Remember the movie, Big Trouble in Little China. That sums up my experience in Asia. Democrats are in big trouble- all over the world.
The world does not hate Trump. The media is lying. More of their fake news. The people I met in Asia love Trump. They love America. They want Trump to succeed. They think hes a breath of fresh air. They think hes the most exciting thing to happen to U.S. politics in their lifetimes. They are excited for the possibility of a Trump-like personality to run for president or prime minister of their countries. The people of Asia want their own Trump!
I was shocked to find the people of Asia are glued to the TV and Internet to watch American politics- because of their fascination with Donald Trump. I was shocked to find the people in my audiences knew more about Trump and American politics than many Americans do. They are following Trumps every word and move from thousands of miles away.
Asian businessmen and women understand America is the key to the global economy. If America succeeds, the world succeeds. If America sneezes, the entire world gets sick. They need us to succeed.
Here comes the important part. Even Asians thousands of miles away agree with President Trump on key issues. And they are turned off by the Democrats.
The audiences for my speeches throughout Asia were about 90% Chinese and 10% Muslim. After my speeches, I spoke to many of the Muslims in attendance to ask about their views of Trump. All of the Muslims I spoke to (not surprisingly) were negative about Trumps so-called Muslim travel ban. They are Muslim. I understand their concerns.
Yet even Muslims in far-away foreign lands think Democrats are badly wrong on the issue of immigration. Despite their negativity towards Trumps immigration plans as they relate to Muslims, every Muslim I spoke to thought it was bizarre and literally crazy that Democrats in America oppose building the wall, deportations, or stronger immigration laws.
Muslim business leaders said things to me like, How can anyone disagree with a wall to secure your border? Its your country. You decide who comes in. Every country decides who comes in.
I also heard, How can Democrats oppose deportations of illegal aliens. They came into your country illegally? Why would they get to stay?
I also heard, How can people illegally in your country be allowed to collect welfare, food stamps, free education and free healthcare? Your country is crazy. No wonder youre $20 trillion in debt. America makes no sense.
Yes, Muslims from outside the USA are concerned with bans or limitations on immigration as it relates to only Muslims. But even they understand that anyone inside America illegally has no rights and should get no sympathy. They desperately want the right to legally immigrate or travel in the USA. But they all- to a man and women- understood that America has every right to secure our borders, limit who comes in and kick out anyone that breaks the law.
They all agreed they want the exact same laws in place to protect their own countries. No one ANYWHERE wants millions of foreigners to illegally flood their country, then demand welfare, food stamps, free healthcare and free education.
None of the Asians or Muslims I met could or would dare support or defend those things. Yet Democrats in America do. Even Muslims outside America think Democrats are insane.
Finally, here is how foreigners see the Democrat Party. I met a 75-year old Chinese business owner who laughed out loud at the Democrat Response to Trump's State of Union. He called the former Kentucky Governor who was chosen to give the response old, lifeless, boring, and remarked "Was he alive? He seemed dead to me. Are you sure he had a pulse?"
When 75-year old Chinese men from Hong Kong laugh at the guy Democrats chose to reply to President Trump...you know Democrats are in big trouble!
Can you imagine? No one in leadership of the Democrat Party realized they couldnt possibly pick a boring, low-energy, old man to give their response to a great showman and entertainer like Trump.
I also sat with a group of Chinese businessmen watching the State of the Union in Hong Kong. All of them were shocked that many Democrats in Congress, including leaders like Debbie Wasserman and Keith Ellison, didn't stand or clap when the wife of a Navy Seal killed in action was honored. They found this negative reaction by Democrats disgusting and disgraceful.
Given what I saw and heard in 5 Asian countries...
President Trump is on the right track and...
the Democrat Party is in big trouble.
When I became mayor of my hometown, Gary, Indiana in 2012, we embarked on a journey to spark revitalization in our city. Gary had suffered decades of decline related to a changing economy and shifting property tax revenue.
This ultimately resulted in an exodus from the city, giving rise to vacant and abandoned buildings, a soaring poverty rate and concomitant crime. While we understood the importance of focusing on infrastructure, job creation and public safety, we also knew that in order to spur resurgence in the city, we needed to embrace creative placemaking using the arts to improve design and management of public places -- to transform the citys image among residents and outside entities. We quickly recognized the importance of public-private partnerships, and the investment of non-profit partners.
In the course of our planning, we embraced art as a viable tool to strengthen our local economy. We became eager partners for pop-up art initiatives, the promotion of emerging artists and the creation of special events to bring us together as well as attract visitors and new residents to our city.
Our administration also embraced opportunities to garner support from the philanthropic community, which could invest in areas that lacked public dollars. When Bloomberg Philanthropies announced its Public Art Challenge open to U.S. cities, we jumped at the opportunity to create a project unique to Gary and our needs.
The City of Gary collaborated with world-renowned artist Theaster Gates, PlaceLab, the University of Chicagos Harris School of Public Policy, and with support from Knight Cities Challenge, to create ArtHouse: A Social Kitchen.
The concept was to reimagine a vacant downtown city building as a public attraction, gathering space, and culinary incubator. Theaster has a penchant for turning unused buildings into cultural institutions, combining adaptive reuse and community-driven initiatives that support neighborhood revitalization. And we found early on that we all firmly believed in the role public art can play in creating partnerships, in providing more visibility for the arts and talent in Gary, and in positively promoting our city.
We also agreed public art--combined with design, community engagement and private and government investment--can transform the way we imagine a city.
In June 2015 it was announced that Gary was one of the four winning projects of the over 200 proposals to the Public Art Challenge.
Whats unique about this art initiative is that ArtHouses programming and offerings have been designed to directly address needs in our community.
ArtHouse will be a cultural hub offering culinary training, cultural and artistic programs as well as commissioned visual artworks. Arthouse is taking an underutilized building through a metamorphosis and helping us to develop more food entrepreneurs and jobs in the food industry, in addition to being a significant magnet to the neighborhood.
As a result of our collective efforts, ArtHouse will be both practical and symbolic at the same time. By cultivating local entrepreneurism, the city will be positioned to jump start an unusually small restaurant communitycreating employment in the city. It is one more effort to bring more life back to the citys hub.
The project will complement the Gary State Building renovation, the replacement of a 20 year abandoned hotel with a downtown plaza boasting innovative green infrastructure, and a new mural depicting the Jackson 5, arguably the citys most famous entertainers. However, the most vital outcome of ArtHouse is providing a source of pride for residents and evidence to others that Gary is determined to come back stronger than ever from the devastation caused by the steel industrys decline.
People often ask me what is the most difficult aspect of rebuilding Gary. It is without a doubt getting people to believe in our city again.
When we see projects like ArtHouse come to life, we have every reason to believe that Gary can recapture its place in the heartland.
I look forward to the activation of ArtHouse, and the hope and inspiration it will bring to our city.
President Trump says he wants to drain the swamp. His strategist Stephen Bannon calls for deconstructing the administrative state. They face fierce opposition. But their biggest obstacle may end up being of their own making. There are nearly 2,000 political vacancies within the Trump administration, most of which did not require Senate confirmation, according to the tracking service Leadership Directories.
There is no consensus inside the White House on how to make senior appointments in this administration, a longtime participant in presidential transitions told me. Secondly, the administration doesnt have a well-staffed, well led Office of Presidential Personnel. The result is you have only 35 officials named so far, and another three have had to withdraw.
The White House wont respond to inquiries about its Presidential Personnel Office, and there may be a good reason. It is headed by John DeStefano, who served as former House Speaker John Boehners political director and senior adviser. At age 38 his only major personnel experience has been advising newly elected 2010 Tea Party members on who to hire.
DeStefano is captaining what amounts to a ghost ship when compared to previous presidents. Im reliably told that only 18 people are currently working in his office. An official who has helped guide several presidential transitions told me that at this point in his presidency, Bill Clinton had nearly 100 people handling resumes inside the White House. There were desks spilling out into the hallways of the Old Executive Office Building, he recalls. Of course, Clinton's early White House wasn't always a model of efficiency.
Personnel are policy, and if you dont have key personnel and enough of them the home team of Washington bureaucrats will wear you down and win every time, a key Trump appointee awaiting confirmation told me.
The bottleneck inside the Trump White House has gotten so bad that some jobs such as who should serve as general counsels in agencies are being effectively handled by the White House Counsels office.
President Trump says critics misunderstand what he is doing in staffing his administration, because he doesnt plan to fill every vacancy. A lot of those jobs, I dont want to appoint someone because theyre unnecessary to have, he told Fox News last week. In government, we have too many people.
While admirable on some level, in practice such a stance amounts to being penny wise and pound foolish. The Washington Examiner reports that the White House has not submitted any names to fill the 10 jobs below Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin that will require confirmation. Theres no way President Trump can fulfill his promise to improve veterans health care without those officials.
At the Justice Department, an Obama appointee is still the deputy Attorney General and presiding over the investigations of Russian interference in the 2016 election. More than two dozen Justice positions havent been filled, including the Office of Civil Rights and the National Security Division.
I wish I had more of my staff on board, Attorney General Jeff Sessions plaintively said Thursday, as he recused himself from the Russia probe.
The Home Alone status of many Cabinet officials has attracted the attention of key Trump campaign donors. I know the president is proud that he won last November with only 130 people on his payroll versus 800 for Hillary, one told me. Hes proud of doing more with less, but in government you need your people in place or some interim Obama holdover stays on and influences the day-to-day operations. And that doesnt begin to address the issue of leaks.
As Kori Schake, a research fellow in government management at the conservative Hoover Institution, told the Washington Post: The president risks looking like he appointed an admirable Cabinet he intends to make ineffective by denying them staff.
And in some cases, the Cabinet department itself still lacks a head -- apart from any possible stalling tactics by Democratic senators. Sonny Perdue, the former Georgia governor, was tapped to be Agriculture Secretary over six weeks ago. But his paperwork hasnt yet been formally turned over so Senate confirmation can begin.
"I don't know yet," Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts, told the Associated Press on Wednesday when asked about Perdue's paperwork. "I wish to hell I did. We need a champion for agriculture, we need him on board."
In interviewing people throughout the Trump administration, I heard a variation of Senator Roberts lament over and over. Sources certainly didnt want to be quoted for fear of being viewed as off-message by the White House, but their critique was consistent.
Personnel are policy, and if you dont have key personnel and enough of them the home team of Washington bureaucrats will wear you down and win every time, a key Trump appointee awaiting confirmation told me.
A leading House Republican says the confusion over the administrations tax reform stems in part from the White House having no chain of command over its drafting and not enough staff to evaluate proposals.
If something is broken, you fix it, Donald Trump frequently said on the campaign trail.
Just before his speech to a joint session of Congress, he graded himself as having done only a C or C-plus job of communicating his message. He then delivered what even critics said was an effective speech.
If President Trump wants to have the last laugh on his critics, again, he needs to address an appointments process that is clogged, if not downright broken.
The Council of theEuropean Union has extended certain sanctions for a year taken by the EU against a number of former Ukrainian officials, who are considered responsible for embezzling government funds.
"On March 3, 2017, the Council expended until March 6, 2018 the decision to freeze the accounts of 15 individuals accountable for the illegal embezzlement of Ukrainian state funds or abuse of office resulting in damages to Ukrainian state assets. One individual has been removed from the list," the Council's press release says.
According to media reports, former MP from the Party of Regions, businessman Yuriy Ivaniuschenko was removed from the list.
Specific measures, including travel bans to the EU, and frozen accounts inEuropean banks, involving persons are on the so-called black list. Ex-president Viktor Yanukovych and his eldest son Oleksandr Yanukovych are included, as well as ex-PM Mykola Azarov and other former top officials, as well as well-known former Ukrainian politicians.
As earlier reported, sanctions against Yanukovych and his accomplices were introduced in March 2014 and extended twice, in March 2015 and in March 2016.
With anti-Semitism on the rise around the world, now is not the time to eliminate a State Department position dedicated to monitoring and combating this persistent social illness. But numerous reports indicate that is just what the White House is considering as it reviews budget options. This misguided step would have monumental repercussions in the global arena.
In 2004, the bipartisan Global Anti-Semitism Review Act created a State Department special envoy position to tackle the problem. It was an office created out of urgency as a wave of anti-Semitism swept across Europe. Our organizations fought to create this position, and we know first-hand the value it carries. World leaders charged with addressing anti-Semitism in their countries know that battling anti-Semitism is a priority for the United States government and that the U.S. is holding them accountable.
Its a position that allows our country to lead by example. And it has inspired other nations to follow suit in making the eradication of anti-Semitism a priority.
As an office of the United States government, the special envoy post has carried weight in world capitals. The State Department has called out violence and hateful language and inspired foreign leaders to condemn incidents of anti-Semitism among their own populations. Its been a model for other nations to emulate. Attendance by these envoys at global conferences sends a powerful message that the United States will not accept anti-Semitism as a norm.
If the United States steps back from the very model we created, what does that signal, both internationally and domestically, about our commitment to combat the pervasive social ill that is anti-Semitism? It sends a message that this is not an important issue.
This position has proven successful in getting other countries to look at their own problems with anti-Semitism and address them in a meaningful and effective way. A succession of U.S. envoys has travelled worldwide to bring attention to anti-Semitism, placing the power and prestige of the U.S. government behind fighting the problem. The worlds leaders have seen this as a priority of U.S. foreign policy. If we remove it, we lose a powerful tool and a public megaphone.
The world looks to the United States to be a leader.
If the United States steps back from the very model we created, what does that signal, both internationally and domestically, about our commitment to combat the pervasive social ill that is anti-Semitism? It sends a message that this is not an important issue. It sends a message that no one is watching to ensure anti-Semitic incidents are noticed, made public, investigated and castigated.
Now the same social illness we are trying to fight globally is raising its head anew in our own backyard. And though the State Departments Special Envoy is tasked with monitoring and fighting anti-Semitism abroad, we cant help but make the connection to what is happening at home. A frightening wave of anti-Semitism has been unleashed, and seems, at the moment, unchecked.
In recent months, scores of bomb threats have been called into Jewish Community Centers and day schools across the United States. In recent days, hundreds of headstones have been overturned at Jewish cemeteries. Swastikas have been carved into cars and on mass transit. Threats against Jewish college students are reported at alarming rates.
We have already proposed the creation of a Justice Department special coordinator to deal with anti-Semitism at home. Though the domestic context is different, the State Department special envoy position would serve as an example to the Justice Department of how focusing the U.S. governments attention on anti-Semitism can produce results. Removing this position would say the U.S. has left the stage at perhaps one of the most critical moments.
We call on the administration to raise the level of monitoring of anti-Semitism. We are ready to help provide our expertise in this area.
The Trump presidency was just days old when it recorded its first US combat casualty. Chief Special Warfare Operator William Ryan Owensa Navy SEAL, Illinois native, and father of fourdied of wounds sustained in a firefight during a raid on an al-Qaeda compound in Yemen.
The now controversial raid was designed to seize phones and laptops and gather other intelligence from the increasing threat of al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). In addition to the death of the Navy SEAL, the raid last month may have killed up to 24 innocent citizens, according to claims emerging from Yemen, including the eight-year-old daughter of American-citizen-turned-terrorist, Anwar al-Awlaki, who was himself killed in a drone strike in 2011 (that same year, Awlakis 16-year-old son was killed in another strike ordered by President Obama).
As the spokesman for US Central Command, Colonel John J. Thomas, said of the US raid on the al-Qaeda compound, AQAP has a horrifying history of hiding women and children within militant operating areas and terrorist camps, and continuously shows a callous disregard for innocent lives. Thats what makes cases like these so especially tragic.
Here the United States faced the dilemma that its ally Saudi Arabia and other members of the coalition have faced since they launched their war in March 2015 on Iranian-backed Houthi rebels who overthrew the legitimate, elected government of Yemen.
For Saudi Arabia, the Houthi-Iranian alliance and control of Yemen represented a serious threat. Left unchallenged, North Yemen could become another southern Lebanon, with an Iranian proxy actively working to subvert Saudi national security. Without intervention in Yemen, Saudi Arabias citizens faced the risk of a hostile militia with thousands of missiles aimed at them on the kingdoms southern border.
Some have claimed that Saudi Arabia has exaggerated the threat posed to its security by the Houthis and their Iranian backers, even arguing that evidence of this alliance is limited. This ignores the facts and the plentiful public evidence to the contrary.
In the last 18 months, the US Navy has intercepted four arms shipments from Iran to Yemen. Iran itself has claimed numerous times that it controls four Arab capitals, including Sanaa, and the Houthis have become closely tied to Hezbollah, Irans Lebanon-based political and military proxy.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has claimed the Houthi cause as his own, allowing Houthi communications and propaganda efforts to set up in the southern Hezbollah-controlled suburbs of Beirut. He has publicly welcomed Houthi fighters to train with his forces. Videos on YouTube show Lebanese Hezbollah trainers and Farsi-speaking targeting specialists inside Yemen helping Houthis fire missiles at Saudi military ships.
Despite these challenges, and nearly two years into one of the most difficult military operations taking place in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia and its coalition partners have largely achieved their objectives: to disrupt Iranian arms deliveries and to make clear to the Houthis that their alliance with Iran will be costly.
But success in war never comes without sacrifice. Unfortunately, Yemeni civilians have paid a high price, with an estimated 10,000 killed since the conflict began. Subsequently, Saudi Arabia has faced allegations that its forces are committing war crimes against the civilian population in Yemen. There have been suggestions that US military support for the war should be terminated.
This is a nonconventional war, where the enemy is not a formal army but a militia that deliberately hides among an innocent population, and where the enemy conceals its bases and facilities in close proximity to civilian facilities. Saudi forces must surely review their own tactics to avoid as many civilian casualties as possible. But its important to not gloss over the tactics of the Houthis, which include, as reported by Freedom House, indiscriminate shelling of populated areas, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detention, and enforced disappearances.
This is what Saudi Arabia faces doing battle against the Houthi rebels, a dangerous force that is guided, funded and armed by Iran. None of this diminishes the tragedy these civilian casualties represent. Rather, it reinforces the urgent need to defeat the Houthis, end the conflict in Yemen, and invest in a long-term political solution to peace.
Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and the Democrats continue to snub President Trump by slowing down Senate confirmation of his Cabinet appointments. Their underlying goal is to allow remaining Obama-appointed bureaucrats to do as much damage to the Trump administration as they can before leaving.
CNN reported last week that Trump is noticeably behind the last three presidents when it comes to securing the confirmation of his Cabinet and other top appointments that require Senate approval.
The Senate confirmed Governor Rick Perry on Thursday to lead the U.S. Department of Energy, leaving only former Governor Sonny Perdue and Alexander Acosta awaiting confirmation to lead the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Labor respectively.
But Schumer is only stalling top cabinet picks to further block the appointments of nearly 2,000 other political vacancies within the administration. CNN said as of February 23, Trump had 1,987 vacancies throughout his administration.
Many of these positions are empty. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said yesterday that much has happened at the Department of Justice in the three weeks hes been in office, and he wished more of his staff had been confirmed by now. To be clear: Senate Democrats are keeping the Department of Justice from functioning at full capacity.
But other seats are currently filled by Obama appointees quietly working behind the scenes to sabotage Trumps efforts by continuing their previous leaders agenda while Schumer works to hamstring Trumps presidency. These include deputies, managers, and political appointees who are meant to keep the government running while a new administration comes into power.
A clear example of this is occurring in the Department of Education, where bureaucrats are continuing what the Washington Post called Obamas ideological crusade on for-profit colleges.
During President Obamas term, his administration forced ITT Technical Institutes out of business after the school helped train American workers for half a century. This left about 40,000 students displaced and about 8,000 employees jobless, according to a September 20, 2016 Washington Post editorial.
And two months before the end of Obamas term, his education department abruptly stripped authority from the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, which is one of the oldest national accreditors of academic institutions in the country.
The Obama administration took this action without giving the ACICS a standard 12-month grace period to address the Department of Educations complaints and imposed intentionally unattainable deadlines on private colleges and work training programs accredited through ACICS.
Secretary Betsy DeVos is now leading the Department of Education, but Obama-appointed lawyers in the department are still enforcing these unreachable mandates for career training institutions.
One such deadline requires 690 privately-owned schools to prove they have applications to other accreditors by March 12. Not only is this forcing private schools to leave ACICS before its appeal is adjudicated, but not meeting this deadline will mean these schools will lose the ability to receive federal Title IV funding, which is bureaucrat-speak for federal student aid.
This means more than 600,000 students at 725 schools will have to either quickly find other educational programs and restart their degrees or certificates; pay off their federal loans with their own money; or find a private lender to accept their debt. All of these options are terrible and punish hard-working people. And the last resort is having taxpayers cover the cost of forgiving the now-useless loans.
The Obama administration made a mission out of demonizing private for-profit colleges and universities, but many of these students are single parents or people who were failed by college-focused federal education policies.
Pulling the rug out from under organizations like ACICS is a blatant, misguided effort by Obama administration bureaucrats who are focused on destroying this industry.
Many of these students are working adults who are trying to improve their lives for the sake of their children. Not only will these Obama-led efforts hurt Americans, but without these colleges and career training programs, our ability to fill the jobs President Trump is working to bring to this county will be severely hindered.
Senate Republicans should make every effort to break the Democrat blockade, so President Trump can swiftly fill these positions. And then the presidents cabinet members should take a close look at Obama staffers who have burrowed in by moving from appointed positions to career jobs.
The Washington Times reported in November that there were 69 Obama political appointees who moved into career jobs from 2010 to 2015, and 17 of them didnt receive the required approval from the Office of Personnel Management.
The bold changes President Trump is bringing to the federal system will require complete loyalty within the ranks of the executive branch. Republicans in the Congress and the Presidents cabinet should work doubly hard to ensure the administration is at top working order as soon as possible.
Editor's note: Newt Gingrich is an advisor to Career Education Colleges and Universities.
Many of those sounding the loudest alarm bells over Russian influence in U.S. politics were curiously silent when far greater concerns were raised about the Clintons.
Investigating the business ties between Russia and those in President Donald Trumps orbit is a legitimate exercise. One-time Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort was an advisor to the pro-Russian Ukrainian president. Former Trump advisor Carter Page had energy deals involving Russian companies. Former National Security Advisor General Michael Flynn gave a nicely paid speech in Moscow as a private citizen and was less than complete in explaining his conversations with Russian officials. And then there is the simple fact that Attorney General (former senator) Jeff Session, while a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, communicated with the Russian Ambassadorsomething senators do fairly regularly.
Examining these relationships is worth doing. Still, those pushing the narrative of troubling ties to Russia lose all credibility by wholly ignoring the far deeper and more troubling relationships the Clintons and their closest aides have maintained with Russian government officials for years, including while they were in public office. Unlike the revelations so far concerning Russian ties in the Trump camp, the Clinton deals involved hundreds of millions of dollars and enormous favors that benefitted Russian interests.
Bill and Hillary Clinton received large sums of money directly and indirectly from Russian officials while Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State. Bill Clinton was paid a cool $500,000 (well above his normal fee) for a speech in Moscow in 2010. Who footed the bill? An investment firm in Moscow called Renaissance Capital, which boasts deep ties to Russian intelligence. The Clinton Foundation itself took money from Russian officials and Putin-connected oligarchs. They also took donations from:
Viktor Vekselberg, a Putin confidant who gave through his company, Renova Group
Andrey Vavilov, a former Russian government official who was Chairman of SuperOx, a research company that was part of the nuclear Cluster at the Russian governments Skolkovo research facility
Elena Baturina, the wife of the former Mayor of Moscow, who apparently gave them money through JSC Inteco, an entity that she controls
Then there is the glaring fact that the Clinton Foundation also scored $145 million in donations from nine shareholders in a Canadian uranium company called Uranium One that was sold to the Russian government in 2010. The deal required the approval of several federal government agencies, including Hillary Clintons State Department. The deal allowed Rosatom, the Russian State Nuclear Agency, to buy assets that amounted to 20 percent of American uranium. Rosatom, by the way controls the Russian nuclear arsenal.
Equally troubling: some of those donations were hidden and not disclosed by the Clintons. President Obama required the Clinton Foundation to disclose all contributions as a condition of Hillary Clinton becoming Secretary of State. But that did not happen. The only reason the hidden donations ever came to light is because we uncovered them by combing through Canadian tax records.
Everyone got what they wanted in this deal: the uranium investors made a nice profit; the Russians acquired a strategic asset; and the Clinton Foundation bagged a lot of money.
Hillary Clinton says she was not involved in the decision to approve the sale of Uranium One. As proof, the Clinton campaign in 2015 trotted out her former aide, Assistant Secretary of State Fernandez, to say publicly that we should take his word for it that she was not involved in approving that deal. But as we now know from the leaked Podesta emails, Fernandez was all too eager to help Podesta kill the story, while getting other favors from Podesta. That raises questions about the veracity of his comments.
It seems strange that while some in Congress are eager to investigate the activities of General Mike Flynn and his contacts with Russia, they have no interest in looking into a transaction in which the Clinton Foundation received a staggering $145 million. Its that kind of inconsistency that saps all credibility from those raising these issues.
Beyond the Clintons themselves, there is also the troubling case of one of their closest aides, John Podesta. He served as Hillary Clintons 2016 campaign chairman. Podesta didnt just have conversations with Russian officials. He went into business with the Russian government while he was advising Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State.
In 2011, John Podesta joined the executive board of a small energy company called Joule Unlimited. Two months after he joined the board, the Russian government invested one billion rubles (approximately $35 million) into the company. The money came from a Russian government investment fund called Rusnano. What is Rusnano? It is a fund started in 2007 by Vladimir Putin and has been described by Russian Education and Science Minister Andrei Fursenko as Putins Child.
According to State Department cables leaked via Wikileaks, technology venture funds like Rusnano were considered a national security concern by U.S. officials because they could serve a dual use in their investments. That is, their investments in civilian technologies could have a military application.
In short, John Podesta was business partners with the Russian government and Vladimir Putin. When John Podesta went to the White House in January 2014 to serve as counselor to President Obama, he failed to disclose his board membership in one of the Joule entities on his financial disclosure form. According to the Podesta emails, Podesta transferred his 75,000 shares in the company to an LLC controlled by his family. But as the Wall Street Journal notes, the Podesta emails reveal he remained actively engaged in company business after that fact.
None of the individuals in Trumps orbit who have Russian tiesPaul Manafort, Carter Page, and General Mike Flynnare serving in the Trump White House. Had Hillary Clinton won the presidency, John Podesta would certainly have played a central role. Would the same people who are currently sounding the alarm bells about Russian influence in American politics have cared? I doubt it.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions has responded to a political hit piece from The Washington Post and a subsequent onslaught from Democrats over the fake news that he met with Russians before President Trump took office. Hell recuse himself from any related investigations.
This should put an end to the phony story ginned up by the radical, alt-left media. After all, Sessions never lied, never misled lawmakers and was going his job when, as senator from Alabama, he met with a foreign ambassador. Hell play no role in whatever unnecessary investigation ensues, and therefore, there will be no conflict.
Let me be clear, Sessions said Thursday. I never had meetings with Russian operatives or Russian intermediaries about the Trump campaign. And the idea that I was part of a, quote, continuing exchange of information during the campaign between Trump surrogates and intermediaries for the Russian government, is totally false.
Still, Sessions, who has built a reputation as a straight shooter, said he asked his staff for a recommendation and was told that, since he was an early supporter of Trump and an informal adviser during the campaign, he should recuse himself. He said the decision was reached over a matter of weeks and was not a reaction to a Washington Post story that claimed he met with the Russian ambassador twice and then lied to Congress about it during his confirmation hearings.
As a senator, Jeff Sessions was a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. It was not out of the ordinary that he talked to foreign ambassadors, and in fact, he spoke to dozens of them last year alone. He was doing his job.
The notion that the alt-radical left is pushing, that Sessions committed perjury during his confirmation hearing, is ridiculous. Heres the Jan. 10 exchange he had with Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., who you may remember as Saturday Night Lives Stuart Smalley.
CNN just published a story alleging that the intelligence community provided documents to the president-elect last week that included information that, quote, Russian operatives claim to have compromising personal and financial information about Mr. Trump," Senator Smalley said. These documents also allegedly stated, quote, There was a continuing exchange of information during the campaign between Trump surrogates and intermediaries for the Russian government.
If there is any evidence that anyone affiliated with the Trump campaign communicated with the Russian government in the course of this campaign, what will do you? Smalley pressed.
Sessions replied that he was unaware of such activity.
I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign, and I did not have communications with the Russians, Sessions said. And I'm unable to comment on it.
It was clear to anyone with a double-digit IQ that Sessions was responding to the "breaking news" Franken sited, which, by the way, turned out to not be true. Yet, Democrats are hyperventilating over the fact that Sessions - as a senator - met with the Russian ambassador and did not disclose it when he was asked about meetings in a completely different context.
These are the same Democrats who saw nothing wrong with President Obamas attorney general meeting secretly with Bill Clinton n a plane on a tarmac for over 30 minutes while Hillary Clinton was under investigation by the FBI. Loretta Lynch never recused herself from that investigation.
But unlike Lynch, Sessions clearly wanted to reassure the American people that all Russia investigations will be free of any political interference.
This whole smear campaign is really just part of the Democrats' larger fake news conspiracy theory that Russian hacking is the reason Hillary Clinton lost the election, and that somehow, members of the Trump campaign secretly coordinated the whole thing. They've been pushing this ever since President Trump won.
Too bad that back in January, James Clapper, President Obama's own director of national intelligence, said Russian interference did not impact vote tallies. And just yesterday, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan said there's zero evidence the Trump campaign ever coordinated with Russia.
We have seen no evidence, been presented with no evidence that anybody on the Trump campaign or an American was involved in colluding with the Russians, Ryan said.
Need more proof? The House Intelligence Committee chairman, Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Calif., said Sessions meeting with an ambassador in his capacity as senator is not only not unusual, its his job.
We've got to be very careful here, Nunes said. It's a slippery slope. All the countries in the world, basically, have embassies here. A lot of these countries are adversaries, but we all meet with those. Many senators and congressmen meet with those ambassadors on a regular basis.
If there's anything that shows that Russia and people from the Trump campaign somehow conspired and impacted votes in the election, well report it. But the alt-left propaganda media and the Democrats have for months been going ballistic over Russian election influence without any evidence.
They had nothing to say when President Obama meddled in the Israeli election to try to defeat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A 2014 congressional investigation found an Israeli political group used $300,000 of U.S. State Department grant money -- your tax dollars -- to create a political apparatus to defeat the Israeli prime minister. Where was the outrage about influencing elections then? Where was the wall-to-wall news coverage? Where was the hyperventilating and mass hysteria?
They didn't care because it was their guy, their ideological soulmate, who was doing it from the White House.
Adapted from Sean Hannity's monologue on "Hannity," March 2, 2017
The estranged wife of former Vice President Joe Biden's youngest son, Hunter Biden, claims he squandered the couple's money on drugs, alcohol and prostitutes since the couple separated in 2015.
In a court filing last week, Kathleen Buhle Biden asked a Washington, D.C. judge to order Hunter Biden to stop spending the couple's remaining assets.
"Throughout the parties' separation, Mr. Biden has created financial concerns for the family by spending extravagantly on his own interests (including drugs, alcohol, prostitutes, strip clubs, and gifts for women with whom he has sexual relations) while leaving the family with no funds to pay legitimate bills," wrote Rebekah Sullivan, a lawyer for Kathleen.
Sarah Mancinelli, an attorney for Hunter Biden, declined to directly address the allegations.
"Hunter and Kathleen have been separated for some time and are in the process of finalizing a divorce," Mancinelli wrote in an email. "Hunter loves and admires Kathleen as a person, a mother, and a friend. He hopes their privacy can be respected at this time."
Kathleen Biden filed for divorce in December and is seeking sole custody of the couple's 16-year-old daughter, the youngest of their three children. A status hearing is scheduled for March 30.
The New York Post reported this week that Hunter Biden, 47, is dating Hallie Biden, 43, the widow of his late brother, former Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden, who died of brain cancer in May 2015. In a statement to the Post, Hunter Biden said the pair was "incredibly lucky" to have found love and support from one another during a difficult time.
Court records indicate that Kathleen Biden asked her husband to leave the couple's Washington, D.C., home on July 5, 2015, prompted by his actions on the night of July Fourth. The filing doesn't offer details.
The couple agreed to separate three months later because of what Kathleen Biden describes as irreconcilable differences, including drug use and infidelity.
Hunter Biden, who has filed a counterclaim and is seeking joint custody, denies that his conduct resulted in the separation.
Biden, an attorney and former lobbyist who works at an investment firm, was discharged from the U.S. Navy Reserve in 2014 after testing positive for cocaine.
In the court filing, Kathleen said Hunter last year instructed his office to reduce monthly transfers to her to $7,500 per month, compared to the previous average of about $17,000. At the same time, she claims, he has spent lavishly, borrowed heavily and transferred money to himself.
Sullivan described the couple's outstanding debts as "shocking and overwhelming," with maxed-out credit cards, double mortgages on two homes, and tax debt of more than $313,000.
In what has been called a visa war, the European Unions parliament on Thursday called on the bloc to force American tourists visiting Europe to first obtain visas because the U.S. excludes five EU countries from its no-visa policy.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the request is unlikely to change policy, but reflects hostility among some European politicians to the Trump administration.
The report said Parliaments vote came six weeks into Trumps presidency and after the legislature publically slammed Trumps executive order banning travelers from seven Muslim-majority countries.
U.S. citizens can travel to all EU countries without visas but the U.S. hasnt granted visa-free travel to citizens of Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Poland and Romania.
NEW TRAVEL BAN COMING IN DAYS, PENCE SAYS
The legislature urged the European Commission to act within two months. The Commission was legally bound to propose by last April that visas be reintroduced for U.S. citizens for 12 months but the 28-nation blocs member countries preferred to take no action.
The Commission has cautioned that suspending the visa waiver for Americans would also hurt trade, tourism and the European economy.
Dimitris Avramopoulos, the European home-affairs commissioner, traveled to Washington last month to talk about the issue. He wrote to The Journal: As you know, our approach brought results with Canada. We will continue our engagement with the United States on this matter as well our broader cooperation on migration and security.
He was referring to Canadas decision to lift all remaining visa requirements for EU citizens by the end of the year.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
President Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn had a previous undisclosed meeting with the Russian ambassador in December at Trump Tower in New York, officials confirmed Thursday to Fox News.
The meeting between the Kushner, Flynn, and Sergey Kislyak, first reported by the New York Times, focused on establishing "a line of communication" between the new administration and Russian government, according to the paper.
Hope Hicks, a White House spokeswoman, told the New York Times the meeting lasted 20 minutes, and that Kushner has not met with Kislyak since.
They generally discussed the relationship and it made sense to establish a line of communication, Hicks said. Jared has had meetings with many other foreign countries and representatives as many as two dozen other foreign countries leaders and representatives.
A separate official told the Associated Press the sit down was a "brief courtesy meeting."
Flynn was fired last month because he misled Vice President Mike Pence and other White House officials about his contacts with Kislyak.
The disclosure came the same day Attorney General Jeff Sessions said he will recuse himself from any existing or future investigations regarding the 2016 presidential campaign, responding to bipartisan pressure to step aside from a probe into Moscow meddling amid revelations he spoke twice with Russias ambassador and didnt disclose it to Congress.
Fox News' John Roberts contributed to this report.
A Michigan lawmaker and professor are crafting a bill that would ban police officers from having sex with prostitutes during investigations, Michigan Radio reported.
The report, which was published on Monday, said that Michigan appears to be the only state that grants immunity to police officers.
The reason the law is structured the way it is is because of the way the prostitution laws are written, Bridgette Carr, a professor at the University of Michigan law School and director of the Human Trafficking Clinic there. So for law enforcement to have any poser to investigate with immunity, they got all the power. And no one thought to go back and carve out a prohibition against sexual intercourse.
Carr is reportedly working with Rep. Gary Glenn, R-Midland, on the bill.
It is unclear if police officers in the state ever take advantage of the exemption. Some police officers reportedly told Carr they did not know the law even existed.
What I do know from my own clients is that people who either say they are cops, who are cops or who are impersonating cops, know about this exemption and threaten my clients with it sometimes, she said. Its not rampant, but it happens.
The strangest sidebar of President Donald Trump's speech to a joint session of Congress Tuesday night involved a mysterious man handing an envelope to the president as he was glad-handing lawmakers on his way out of the House chamber.
Now, the mystery man has been identified -- as former New York Republican Rep. Daniel Frisa.
Fox News confirmed Frisa's identity after multiple inquiries, but that only answers one of the many questions surrounding the incident.
As Trump was about to depart the House chamber, the person now identified as Frisa approached him from behind.
"Good job, Mr. President. Nice job," Frisa said. He then attempted to hand the president an envelope, saying, "This is from your friend Noach Dear."
It is odd for someone to hand something off to the President after an address to Congress. Sources told Fox News security officials had told the president not to accept papers or other items from lawmakers while in the House chamber, and it was not immediately clear whether Trump took the envelope from Frisa. It was also not clear what was in the envelope.
Frisa served one term in the House, where he represented New York's 4th District encompassing part of Nassau County on Long Island. Elected in 1994 as part of the "Republican revolution," Frisa was defeated in his re-election bid by Democrat Carolyn McCarthy, who retired in 2015.
Former lawmakers are allowed on the House floor. However, Frisa was not a prominent figure during his one term in Congress and no one initially recognized him Tuesday night.
Dear, a former New York City Councilman who represented districts in Brooklyn, has a relationship with Trump dating back to the 1990s. He assisted Trump with city zoning issues, and the future president attended at least one fundraiser for Dear.
On one occasion when Trump ran into red tape in Manhattan, Dear proclaimed, If Manhattan doesnt want the project, Donald, you can build in my district."
In 2015, Dear was elected to a 15-year term as a judge on the New York Supreme Court, the state's trial-level court.
Frisa argued a foreclosure case involving Wells Fargo in front of Dear as recently as last November, but it's unclear why Frisa could potentially have served as an emissary between the president and the judge.
Efforts by Fox to reach Frisa and Dear have been unsuccessful.
Fox News' Virginia Nicolaidis contributed to this report.
Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers has suspended Roman Nasirov as the head of the State Fiscal Service for a period of investigation.
The corresponding decision was taken at an extraordinary government meeting in Kyiv on Friday, an Interfax-Ukraine correspondent reported.
Before presenting this decision of the government for consideration, Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said that the head of the Ministry of Finance of Ukraine "will make his proposals for the removal of Roman Mykhailovych Nasirov from his office in order to ensure an absolutely objective and impartial investigation."
The prime minister said that open and fair investigation against Nasirov is required.
"We would like the investigation to be entirely objective, transparent and effective. If a person is guilty, then he should be punished, if he is not guilty, then he should be acquitted. But it's only a matter of time and the effectiveness of the investigation," Groysman said.
On Friday morning, March 3, head of the PGO's Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) Nazar Kholodyntsky reported that Nasirov was handed a notice of suspicion of committing a crime under Part 2 of Article 364 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (abuse of power, resulting in grave consequences, is punishable by imprisonment from three to six years).
Investigators believe that the head of the State Fiscal Service of Ukraine Roman Nasirov during 2015-2016, acting in the interests of the people's deputy Oleksandr Onyshchenko, provided managers of regional and territorial authorities of the SFS with illegal instructions to take groundless decisions on the tax debt installment of Ltd. Khas Company, Ltd. Karpatnadrainvest, LLC Nadra Geocenter. During this period Nasirov alone took illegal decisions on installment of financial obligations of these companies, which had no legal grounds for it, and did not provide the documents required for this purpose. These decisions were taken with the violation of a specific legal procedure, namely in the absence of proper justification and legal basis.
According to Kholodnytsky, investigators believe actions by the head of Ukraine's State Fiscal Service Roman Nasirov resulted in the loss of about UAH 2 billion to the state budget. Ukraine's Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) will recommend Nasirov's sacking.
Vice President Pence allegedly used a personal email account, which was hacked, during his time serving as Indiana governor, according to a report released Thursday.
The Indianapolis Star reported Pence discussed homeland security issues and sensitive matters with top advisers while using his personal AOL account. Some of the topics included Indiana's response to terror attacks and security at the governor's mansion.
The newspaper also reported Pences account was hacked last summer, before becoming Trump's runningmate. The AOL account was subjected to a phishing scheme last spring and Pence's contacts were sent in an email falsely claiming that the governor and his wife were stranded in the Philippines and needed money.
Marc Lotter, a Pence spokesman, said the governor switched to a different AOL account with added security measures and has since stopped using the new account since he was sworn in as vice president.
As Trump's running mate, Pence frequently criticized rival Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server as President Obama's secretary of state, accusing her of purposely keeping her emails out of public reach and shielding her from scrutiny.
Lotter said "the comparison is absurd" because Clinton had set up a private server in her home at the start of her tenure at the State Department and, unlike Clinton, Pence did not handle any classified material as Indiana's governor.
Lotter said Pence "maintained a state email account and a personal email account" like previous governors in the state. A senior official from the vice presidents office told Fox News that political activities were not permitted on state email so that activity was on his personal email.
At the end of his term Pence directed outside counsel to review all of his communications to ensure that state-related emails were transferred and properly archived by the state, the spokesman said.
Public officials are not barred from using personal email accounts under Indiana law, but the law can interpreted to mean that any official business conducted on primate email must be retained to comply with public records law. Pences office said he ly complied with Indiana law regarding email use and retention."
At the end of his term, Pence hired the Indianapolis law firm of Barnes & Thornburg to conduct a review of all of his communications and that review is still ongoing, Lotter said. Any correspondence between Pence's AOL account and any aides using a state email account would have been automatically archived, he said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-S.C. told Fox News' "The First 100 Days" Thursday that Attorney General Jeff Sessions' failure to disclose two conversations he had with Russia's ambassador to Congress "is not tantamount to perjury."
"Attorney General Sessions incorrectly answered a question," Gowdy told host Martha MacCallum. "That happens almost every day in Congress and there arent perjury referrals. People do make mistakes."
Sessions announced earlier Thursday that he would recuse himself from any existing or future investigations regarding the 2016 presidential campaign after the Washington Post reported the discussions with Russian envoy Sergey Kislyak.
"The Jeff Sessions I know has always been a rule-follower," Gowdy said. "I dont think hes going to be talking about campaign-related matters on Capitol grounds, and if he said he forgot about it, he would be about the one millionth person who actually forgot about a fact."
However, Gowdy added that he was not "prejudging" the matter and noted, "The FBIs welcome to look at it. If the Senate feels that strongly about it, they can send a referral to the FBI. But simply making a factual error is not tantamount to perjury."
Gowdy also defended FBI Director James Comey, who briefed lawmakers about the federal investigation into Russian activities during last year's campaign. Following the briefing, Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., the ranking member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, claimed "the bureau has not given us a full counterintelligence briefing."
"I have never heard a federal law enforcement agent give with that degree of particularity and detail an update on an inquiry," said Gowdy, a former federal prosecutor. "I want to investigate all aspects of [Russian activity against the U.S.] ... But Congress does not run parallel criminal investigations with the FBI. Were not equipped to do it. Were not supposed to do it.
"For [Schiff] to treat it that way, that dismissively, clearly he and I were in two separate rooms this morning."
Attorney General Jeff Sessions told Fox News' "Tucker Carlson Tonight" in an exclusive interview Thursday that conversations between him and the Russian ambassador to the U.S. had been "hyped beyond reason" by the media and criticism of them was "unfair."
"I dont believe anybody that was in that meeting would have seen or believed I said one thing that was improper or unwise," Sessions told host Tucker Carlson. "It was really a sad thing to be attacked like that, but I think weve explained it and we intend to move forward."
Sessions spoke to Fox News hours after he recused himself from any existing or future investigations regarding the 2016 presidential campaign. Lawmakers from both parties had pressed Sessions to step away from an ongoing probe into Moscow meddling during last year's race for the White House.
Sessions has repeatedly denied meeting with Russian officials or operatives while a surrogate for then-candidate Donald Trump's campaign. He testified during his confirmation hearing in January that he had no communications with Russia during the campaign, an answer he later said was "honest and correct."
However, Sessions also said Thursday that he would submit a supplement to the record of his hearing that would cover his conversations with Russian envoy Sergey Kislyak
The attorney general told Carlson that he had intended to announce he was recusing himself from any investigation of the Trump campaign's connections with Russian figures even before the Washington Post revealed his meetings with Kislyak Wednesday night.
"I believe I should recuse myself," Sessions said, "because I was involved in the campaign to a degree [that] I think [it] would have been perceived that I wouldnt be objective[ly] participating in an investigation that might involve the campaign."
Sessions added that his recusal was "not an admission of any wrongdoing" and said that he had acted "exactly correctly" in the matter.
In the interview, Sessions detailed his two encounters last year with Kislyak, one of which happened during the Republican Convention in Cleveland this past July.
"I spoke at the Republican convention at a conference with some 50 ambassadors," Sessions recalled. "After I spoke, I walked down from the podium and mingled with a number of people and we met at that occasion and had a chat, and I left shortly thereafter."
Sessions said the other, more involved discussion with Kislyak took place Sept. 8 in his office and was one of several meetings he took with foreign ambassadors as a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.
"We talked about a number of issues. One of them was the Ukraine and we had a disagreement over that," the attorney general said. "The Ukrainian ambassador had been into my office for a meeting the day before, and so we had a little disagreement over the Ukrainian issue. So we had a number of discussions like that."
Sessions said the meeting with Kislyak in his office was witnessed by two of his senior staffers, whom he described as "non-political."
"I dont believe theres anything wrong with a United States senator meeting with an ambassador from Russia," he said. "I learned something perhaps in that meeting I usually did and so thats what happened. Ambassadors were coming by to see me pretty often."
Several top Democrats, for whom the revelations of any Russia discussions only served to fuel long-running accusations that Trump-tied officials have sought to conceal past contacts with Moscow, have called for Sessions' resignation, including the leaders in both the House and Senate. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., went so far as to say Sessions had lied to Congress and committed perjury.
Many Republicans jumped to Sessions defense, saying Democrats were engaged in political theater and describing Sessions meetings as routine.
President Trump defended Sessions as an "honest man" in a statement released late Thursday.
"He did not say anything wrong," Trump said. "He could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not intentional. This whole narrative is a way of saving face for Democrats losing an election that everyone thought they were supposed to win."
Attorney General Jeff Sessions Thursday offered details of his meetings with the Russian ambassador last year after failing to disclose them at his confirmation hearing, triggering Democratic calls for his resignation.
Sessions' hastily-called press conference, at which he announced he would recuse himself from any probes into campaign issues, followed a Washington Post report that he met in July and September 2016 with the Russian Ambassador to the U.S.
He did not disclose either of those contacts during his confirmation hearings.
When asked during the hearings about Trump campaign officials possibly having communications with Russian officials during the campaign, Sessions denied he had any meetings.
On Thursday, he said he had not misled the committee.
At the time [his statement] was honest and correct as I understood, said Sessions, who argued he was acting in his capacity as a senator at the September meeting with Russian ambassador Sergey I. Kislyak in his Senate office.
Asked about his September meeting, the attorney general said Kislyak sent a staffer who asked for a meeting, which was then arranged. As far as what was discussed, Sessions did not remember much, except a mention of a trip he took to Russia in 1991 as part of a church group.
The conversation, he said, touched on such issues as terrorism and the Ukraine, whose ambassador had visited his office the previous day, but they discussed nothing related to the campaign.
Sessions noted their interaction grew testy when the issue of Ukraine was discussed and that Kislyak extended an offer to meet for lunch at a later date but the meeting never occurred.
The former Alabama senator and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee joked that most of these ambassadors are pretty gossipy and that he did not recall any other particularly political discussions with Kislyak.
An arrest warrant has been issued for Anthony Silva, the former mayor of Stockton, California, who lost a re-election bid last year following accusations of inappropriate behavior with minors at a youth camp he runs.
The latest allegations have no relation to that case, said his lawyer Mark Reichel. Rather, he faces felony charges of money laundering, grand theft and misuse of public funds, according to the arrest warrant obtained by Fox News. Sources said the charges are in connection to a non-profit club that serves local youth.
Investigators with the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office are now combing through laptops, computers and financial documents seized Thursday from Silva's home, and from the Stockton Kids Club. Authorities were assisted by FBI agents, federal marshals, and Stockton police, according to Silva's lawyer.
"He is clearly the focus of the DA's office," Reichel told Fox News. "They want to get him."
The arrest warrant shows his bail was set for $1 million.
Reichel said officers conducted the search while Silva was out of the country. Reichel says Silva left Wednesday on a long-planned trip to Central and South America with other residents of Stockton. The former mayor posted an image on Facebook indicating he was flying to Panama, and referencing a song by John Denver.
"Apparently Stockton can manage without me for a while so I decided to go explore the world. I am leaving on a jet plane, don't know when I'll be back again," he wrote.
A second post was a video in which Silva indicated he was in Colombia. Both posts have since been removed.
A resident of Stockton familiar with the charges against the former mayor said, "Anthony Silva is a continuing embarrassment to the people of Stockton."
Since he lost his re-election bid last November, Silva appears to have devoted his time to running the Stockton Kids Club. His Facebook page contains numerous posts promoting the venue as a way to get Stockton youth into programs and services, and as rental space for birthday parties and other events.
Last year, at a summer camp in nearby Amador County, Silva was arrested and charged with four criminal counts, including recording confidential information, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and providing alcohol to a minor.
Those charges were based on information supplied by the FBI after agents seized his phone at the San Francisco Airport when Silva returned from China on Sept. 28th, 2016.
During the months-long federal investigation, recordings were also discovered apparently capturing Silva playing strip poker and drinking with camp counselors, including a 16-year-old boy.
In October, a judge reduced the charges to misdemeanors, and Silva, who has refused to settle the case, is scheduled to have a hearing on the matter by phone next Tuesday.
In a statement given to KCRA TV in Sacramento, Silva said he's baffled by the latest developments.
"The truth is, I don't know what they are after," he said, "and a few days before court? When and why won't it end?"
Silva also had a run-in with the law in 2015, when he failed to immediately report that two guns had been stolen from his house at separate times. Only after one of his weapons was used in the fatal shooting of a 13-year-old boy did Silva notify police.
As for the latest search warrants, the district attorney's office would only say they are part of an on-going investigation.
Reichel said he has not yet seen the arrest warrant or heard details about the charges beyond what he's seen on the local news. He says he will continue to represent Silva and insisted his client was innocent. "I'm not worried."
President Trumps love of Caterpillar, Inc. apparently wasn't deep enough to spare the Illinois-based manufacturer from a multi-agency federal raid linked to its overseas subsidiaries and tax practices.
The company, which makes mining and construction equipment, was slapped with three search warrants by the feds on Thursday.
On Friday, U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross confirmed that the raids were part of an ongoing probe against the company.
The Commerce Department has enforcement responsibilities both on imports and on exports, so its an important part of our function, Ross said on CNBC. Were going to be even stricter on enforcement, particularly on inbound goods that shouldnt be.
The escalation of the governments dispute with Caterpillar comes as the Trump administration promises to reform corporate taxes and design a system that makes it attractive for companies like Caterpillar to keep their businesses stateside.
Agents from the Internal Revenue Service, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and the U.S. Department of Commerce participated in Thursdays searches, according to a spokeswoman for the U.S. attorneys office for the Central District of Illinois. Federal officials searched three Caterpillar locations, including its headquarters in Peoria, Ill. The other two warrants were served at facilities in East Peoria and Morton.
No arrests were made.
Though details remain sketchy on what exactly the feds are after, the raids apparently are tied to Caterpillars overseas business practices and tax strategies.
Initially, Caterpillar only confirmed the raids had taken place. The company later acknowledged the raids were connected to its use of a parts subsidiary based in Switzerland as well as tax practices that sparked a Senate investigation and led to shareholder lawsuits and even a $1 billion penalty.
Caterpillar is currently contesting an Internal Revenue Service demand that it pay $2 billion in taxes and penalties for profits assigned to the subsidiary between 2007 and 2012.
What makes the raids all the more noteworthy is they stood in sharp contrast to the praise the manufacturing giant has drawn from Trump since the campaign.
Trump, as a candidate, repeatedly vowed to use Caterpillar and John Deere equipment to build his promised border wall.
A week ago, Trump praised Caterpillar for producing great bulldozers. At a meeting of manufacturing heads at the White House, the former construction magnate told outgoing company chairman Doug Oberhelman, I love Caterpillar. Ive been driving them for a long time.
Trump also touted the companys biggest bulldozer, the D11, and said he looked forward to an even bigger D12 in the works. Hes also tapped Caterpillar to lead his big manufacturer push.
Caterpillar also has seen its shares soar since Trumps White House win buoyed by the promise the president has made on pumping $1 trillion in infrastructure.
Shares of Caterpillar, though, fell more than 5 percent Thursday amid reports that federal agents were searching three of the companys offices. Caterpillars performance dragged down the Dow Thursday following the tax allegations.
New company CEO Jim Umpleby apologized to employees and pledged to continue cooperating with federal authorities after the raids.
Umpleby said he was surprised by the turn of events and that management, including himself, did not have enough information to determine what the feds were after.
Im sorry that we had to experience this today, he said in a statement to employees.
Calls to Caterpillar and the White House for comment were not immediately returned.
Caterpillars overseas ventures have long been the subject of scrutiny.
Over the past five years, the company has had to respond to concerns from the Securities and Exchange Commission over its operations in places that are subject to U.S. sanctions.
In 2011, Caterpillar was among a dozen blue chip companies under investigation by the SEC for dealings in Syria, Iran and Sudan.
In 2014, the SEC asked Caterpillar to explain its operations in Syria and Sudan as well as to respond to a news report that reportedly clocked a delivery of Caterpillar products from a Ukrainian tractor company to Cuba.
Caterpillar downplayed its sales in Syria and Sudan. The company also denied wrongdoing in Cuba and pushed back on the news article the SEC cited.
An Illinois congressman compared town hall meetings, which for many Republicans have turned into raucous affairs, to the practice of "cleansing" by "Orientals."
Republican Rep. Mike Bost made the assertion during a meeting with the editorial board of the Southern Illinoisan in Carbondale.
Bost visited his 12th District last week, hosting a tele-town hall instead of an in-person one.
"The amount of time that I have at home is minimal, I need to make sure that it's productive," Bost told the editorial board. "You know the cleansing that the Orientals used to do where you'd put one person out in front and 900 people yell at them? That's not what we need. We need to have meetings with people that are productive."
In a statement Thursday, Bost said he "used a poor choice of words" in describing "coordinated disruptions" he says are taking place across the country.
Bost spokesman George O'Connor said Bost's use of Orientals was a reference to sessions during China's Cultural Revolution when individuals were publicly humiliated and subjected to verbal abuse by a crowd.
"While there was no malicious intent, I regret that my words may have distracted from an important point," Bost said. "When the booing and shouting drowns out the conversation we're trying to have with our constituents, it becomes that much harder to govern."
Some Republicans in Congress have participated in rowdy town halls in which crowds have expressed concerns about President Donald Trump's policies. A few, like Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, have been shouted down and booed.
Bost described the town halls as "out of control, which means you don't actually get to talk to people and listen, and we're looking for ways to do that."
In an editorial, the Southern Illinoisan noted that the people of his district want to have their voices heard, and doing it over the phone or the internet just won't do.
It went on to say, "It is part of his job description to, from time to time, take the heat. A leader should not be reluctant to meet with his constituents personally."
In 2012, as a state representative, Bost screamed profanities and referenced the Bible during a tirade directed at powerful House Speaker Mike Madigan. The outburst, which created an internet stir, came as House members prepared to vote on a contentious pension bill without a chance for debate or amendment.
Even without a formal title, Ivanka Trump is steadily carving out an expanded role in her fathers White House which in the last few days alone has touched on everything from combating human trafficking to pushing affordable child care policies.
Her influence could be seen most recently in President Trumps address earlier this week to a joint session of Congress. Trumps call for affordable child care, paid family leave and help for women entrepreneurs was widely seen as bearing Ivankas signature.
A senior administration official told Axios that while policy guru and chief wordsmith Stephen Miller largely penned Trumps speech, Ivanka worked hard on it with him on many of the parts, especially affirming that the president's desire to have an uplifting and aspirational speech was right.
Ever since Ivanka Trump announced in January she was taking a formal leave of absence from The Trump Organization, moving to Washington, D.C., with husband Jared Kushner and their three children, speculation has been widespread over what her portfolio would look like.
Broadly speaking, ex-congressional aide and VP of the Keelen Group lobbying firm Frank McCarthy predicted on Fox News Strategy Room that she would soften the edges of her fathers agenda, in turn attracting greater bipartisan support.
Trumps husband, unlike her, is an official senior adviser to the president, expected to handle Middle East peace negotiations and other issues. But together, the two of them have advocated on additional policy matters.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the couple intervened to strike language about the [Obama-era] climate deal from an earlier draft of a pending executive order on climate change.
As early as Feb. 2, Politico reported the couple went to work on gay and transgender rights by advocating for the elimination of a proposed executive order that would reverse some protections in the workplace.
The White House later released a statement vowing that a 2014 order protecting employees from anti-LGBTQ workplace discrimination while working for federal contractors, will remain intact at the direction of President Donald J. Trump.
Ivanka Trump also has emerged as a fixture in high-level meetings.
On Feb. 3, she sat between Ernst & Young CEO Mark Weinberger and Global Infrastructure Partners Chairman Adebayo Ogunlesi at a Business Advisory Council Meeting, where they discussed tax and trade, regulation and women in the workforce.
At last week's Business Advisory Council meeting, leveling the playing field for women in the workforce was one of the key topics discussed. pic.twitter.com/2mygrK4dQv Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) February 7, 2017
She continued her crusade for working women on Feb. 13 when she joined her father in welcoming Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to the White House. She joined the two leaders in a roundtable discussion with female executives from the United States and Canada, which resulted in the establishment of the United States Canada Council for the Advancement of Women Business Leaders and Female Entrepreneurs.
Trump, who frequently includes the hashtag #WomenWhoWork in her social media posts, has been a longtime champion for gender equity in the workforce.
She also sat across from her father on Feb. 23 in a meeting as he vowed to crack down on human trafficking, in an effort involving the departments of Justice and Homeland Security.
However, Trumps unofficial role opens the door to continuing questions regarding her qualifications and potential ethical conflicts.
Jeremy Mayer, an associate professor at George Mason Universitys Schar School of Policy and Government, said while she clearly is a bright woman nothing in her background suggests an aptitude for policy or politics at this level.
He voiced concerns about her inclusion in non-social settings with prime ministers or in certain policy debates. Mayer also noted unintended consequences from making a family member point person on policy, such as when former President Bill Clinton put first lady Hillary Clinton in charge of health care reform.
[I]t prevented the normal White House policy process from happening. Nobody wanted to tell the president that his wife was leading the effort badly, when by several measures she was making bad political choices at various points, he said in an email.
As for Ivanka Trumps past with The Trump Organization, he noted she has largely severed those ties but suggested there could be problems with her benefiting from profits off her own brands.
White House Counselor Kellyanne Conway already got in hot water for promoting Ivanka Trumps brand during a Fox & Friends interview.
You know youve got a problem when the political world is debating whether you should recuse or resign.
And thats where Jeff Sessions found himself after the Washington Post story ignited a media firestorm over his past contacts with the Russian ambassador.
Donald Trumps unusual burst of good press over that speech to Congress lasted all of 24 hours.
Just as the president and his press secretary seemed to be digging in, the attorney general took some air out of the story by holding a news conference and announcing that after consulting with ethics officials, he has recused himself from any FBI investigation of Russia and the campaign. That is a whole lot better place to be than the bunker.
Its important to emphasize, as the Democrats go to Defcon 1, that Sessions conversations with the Russian envoy may turn out to be nothing.
But the question of whether the attorney general misled Congress is fueling the controversy that utterly dominated cable news yesterday, especially with Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi holding pressers to say Sessions should step down.
In an endless loop, TV has been replaying Sessions telling Al Franken during his confirmation hearing: I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians.
Absolutely nothing misleading in his answer, says his spokeswoman, Sarah Isgur Flores.
When Sessions maintains that his two contacts with Sergey Kislyak, one of them a meeting in his Senate office, had nothing to do with his role as a key Trump surrogate, it can sound like splitting hairs. But he was smart to take questions from reporters rather than just reading a statement before the cameras. That made it look like he had nothing to hide.
Sessions acted after Jason Chaffetz and other Republican lawmakers who said he should recuse himself from the probe, which is looking at a period when Moscow was involved in hacking the Democrats.
The previously undisclosed discussions could fuel new congressional calls for the appointment of a special counsel to investigate Russias alleged role in the 2016 presidential election, the Post story said. That happened immediately.
Sean Spicer told Fox & Friends that Sessions was 100 percent straight with the committee and that Democrats are pushing a false narrative for partisan purposes. And the president briefly told reporters he didnt know about Sessions contacts with Kislyak but didnt think he should recuse himself. So Sessions showed that on this matter, hes not following the White House line.
As the Post story hit, the New York Times reported that some Obama White House officials in the final days scrambled to spread information across the government about Trump associates contacts with Russia to ensure that such meddling isnt duplicated in future American or European elections, and to leave a clear trail of intelligence for government investigators.
There is still no proof that anything nefarious happened between Trump, his campaign or his associates and the Russian government.
But having covered every special prosecutor investigation, including Iran-contra and Clinton/Whitewater/Lewinsky, I know this:
One, if some kind of independent counsel is named, that person can take the probe in unexpected directions.
Two, had Sessions not acted, the political pressure for Sessions to bow out of the investigation would have built to a fever pitch.
Three, the media are going to be like a dog with a bone on this story and keep barking and digging.
Remember, Mike Flynn dug in on his own contacts with the ambassador, refusing to give an inch, and wound up losing his job. Jeff Sessions showed yesterday that he has better political instincts.
Democrats were aghast after learning Attorney General Jeff Sessions met twice, as a senator, with Russias ambassador to the U.S. without telling Congress at his confirmation hearing but it turns out Sergey Kislyak is no stranger to lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.
The longtime Russian ambassador met with seven then-Democratic senators in a single sit-down in 2013, among other discussions and reportedly was a frequent visitor to the Obama White House.
As House Speaker Paul Ryan put it Thursday, We meet with ambassadors all the time.
The central issue dogging Sessions is not so much that he met with the ambassador but that he claimed during his confirmation hearing he had no communications with Russian officials during his time as a Trump campaign surrogate. In a press conference, though, Sessions rejected claims he misled Congress and suggested he was answering in the context of campaign-related discussions, which he maintains he never had.
But some Sessions critics nevertheless portrayed meetings with Kislyak, whose country was accused of meddling in the 2016 campaign, as a rare summit, particularly for a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee like Sessions.
The most forceful such statement came from Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., who tweeted that she had been on the Armed Services Com for 10 years. No call or meeting w/Russian ambassador. Ever. Ambassadors call members of Foreign Rel Com.
That was quickly proven untrue.
A pair of tweets first unearthed by National Reviews Charles C.W. Cooke showed McCaskill twice wrote messages about meetings with Kislyak, in 2013 and 2015.
Off to meeting w/Russian Ambassador. Upset about the arbitrary/cruel decision to end all U.S. adoptions, even those in process, McCaskill tweeted on Jan. 30, 2013.
On Aug. 6, 2015, McCaskill wrote: Today calls with British, Russian, and German ambassadors re: Iran deal. #doingmyhomework.
McCaskill later blamed Twitter's character limit for the seeming disparity in her claims, suggesting the limit prevented her from being more specific in Thursday's tweet. She told The Weekly Standard there was no contradiction, and clarified she never had a one-on-one meeting with the ambassador.
FactCheck.org still labeled McCaskills claim as false.
McCaskills 2013 meeting was the one involving a total of seven Democratic senators. She joined several Republicans and six other Democratic senators that day in an appeal to Kislyak for Moscow to reverse its blockade of U.S. adoptions of Russian children.
Other Democratic senators in that meeting were: Sens. Mary Landrieu of Louisiana, Maria Cantwell of Washington, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Jack Reed of Rhode Island, Robert Casey of Pennsylvania and Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island.
Klobuchar said in a statement afterward that she was able to tell Kislyak the stories of families she met in Minnesota. Landrieu is no longer a senator after losing her seat in 2014.
President Trump also took a shot Friday at top Democrats seeking to expose his supposed Russia ties tweeting out a newly unearthed photo of a younger Sen. Chuck Schumer and Vladimir Putin enjoying coffee and donuts.
We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite! Trump tweeted.
We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite! pic.twitter.com/Ik3yqjHzsA Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 3, 2017
Schumer tweeted back: Happily talk re: my contact w Mr. Putin & his associates, took place in '03 in full view of press & public under oath. Would you &your team?
While Putin has had contact with U.S. officials for decades, Kislyak also would be a familiar face for longtime Washington lawmakers. Hes been the ambassador to the U.S. since 2008, and served in various posts representing the former Soviet Union in the 1980s.
Ive met with the Russian ambassador with a group, in my capacity, with a group of other senators, Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., told CNN. Thats in my official capacity. Thats nothing. Thats my job.
Republican Missouri Sen. Roy Blunt, defending Sessions, said hes spoken with the Russian ambassador as well.
Meanwhile, The Daily Caller reported that Kislyak is listed as visiting the White House at least 22 times between 2009 and 2016. They likely were a mix of personal meetings and group visits. Roughly half of the visits involved broader receptions with other visitors.
Sessions, at his press conference, downplayed any intrigue behind his meetings with the ambassador last year, including one in September at his office. He said they discussed terrorism and Ukraine, among other topics.
Sessions, in trying to tamp down the controversy, announced he would recuse himself from any investigations pertaining to the campaign, amid bipartisan pressure to separate himself from probes regarding Russian meddling in the race.
But some Democrats are still calling for his resignation, and a special prosecutor.
It is insufficient for Attorney General Sessions to recuse himself from any matters concerning the presidential campaign. He must resign, House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer said in a statement late Thursday.
President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko has said that the government will not allow the situation in the country to be destabilized.
"Someone is eager to sink the boat. Someone wants to walk along avenues carrying flags and shouting, "Get out." Why? Because they do no work. They have created nothing, not even a doghouse. So, they call for destabilizing the country. We won't let them succeed. We have different ways [of dealing with these scoundrels]," Poroshenko said during his visit to Kharkiv tractor factory on Friday.
A former CIA case officer who faced extradition to Italy for her alleged role in the rendition of a radical Egyptian Muslim cleric is now free after Trump administration officials intervened, according to a source close to the discussions.
CIA Director Mike Pompeo lobbied his counterparts in Portugal and Italy on behalf of Sabrina De Sousa who was convicted in absentia along with 25 other Americans after the post-9/11 rendition of an Egyptian cleric. He was later found guilty on terrorism charges. The CIA had no comment on the case.
The source said Friday that Pompeo worked behind the scenes to show that, on his watch, no CIA case officer would be left behind for executing a mission authorized at the highest levels of U.S. government.
De Sousa called her release "a huge and a very welcome development" in a statement Friday.
"I want to extend my deepest appreciation to the Trump administration for all their efforts on my behalf," she said. "Without their support I would be spending tonight in an Italian prison."
Former Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Mich., who was once the Republican chairman on the House Intelligence Committee and who lobbied hard on behalf of DeSousa, told Fox News, "The Obama administration and former CIA Director John Brennan abandoned De Sousa the last seven years, and in six weeks, the Trump team made her freedom possible."
A former senior intelligence official told Fox News, though, that there was an extensive effort by the entire U.S. government to push the Italians to pardon these individuals, and the allegation that the former CIA director abandoned U.S. personnel is unfounded.
The State Department declined to comment on several inquiries into the administration's role in De Sousa's release.
A White House official told Fox News on Friday the administration was "deeply disappointed in Ms. de Sousas conviction and sentence, and we, in conjunction with the State Department, followed her case closely and remained in touch."
"We appreciate the efforts of the Italian Government to challenge the prosecution before the Italian Constitutional Court," the official said. "The U.S. Government takes its obligation to assist U.S. citizens overseas seriously and we are pleased with the action the Italian Government decided to take."
De Sousa won a last-minute reprieve on Wednesday, hours before she was set to be extradited for the kidnapping and interrogation of the Egyptian cleric, whose name is Osama Mustapha Hassan Nasr. He is also known as Abu Omar.
The 61-year-old mother was working in Italy as an undercover CIA officer in 2003 when U.S. and Italian intelligence agents snatched Omar off the streets of Milan and transported him to his native Egypt for interrogation. There, he says, he was tortured.
The operation was part of the CIA's controversial "extraordinary rendition" program, implemented under President George W. Bush, which entailed taking terror suspects to countries where torture is allowed.
Omar -- who turned out to be a "nobody," according to De Sousa -- was held at an American military base in Germany before being flown to Cairo, Egypt. After interrogation, he was released from prison for lack of prosecutable evidence against him. The Italians, however, convicted him in absentia of "criminal association for the purposes of international terrorism" and sentenced him to six years in prison -- though he never served time.
De Sousa, meanwhile, said she was some 130 miles away in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy, chaperoning her son's school ski trip, on the day Omar was abducted -- and phone records obtained by Italian prosecutors corroborated that claim.
Still, Italy brought "broad charges" against her for a plot she says she had no direct part in.
The Italians also convicted in absentia 25 other Americans but several were since pardoned and none served time in prison.
De Sousa, who was born in India and holds both American and Portuguese passports, left the CIA in 2009 and moved to Portugal in April 2015 to be near family.
In October 2015, she was detained at Lisbon's airport on a European arrest warrant while attempting to travel to India. She was later released but ordered to remain in Portugal.
The series of events that followed amount to an international legal nightmare.
Italy first sought extradition of De Sousa with the guarantee of a retrial or appeal with new evidence, acknowledging she had been tried in absentia. Based on these guarantees, the Portuguese courts agreed to extradite.
But in June 2016, Italy sent Portugal a letter saying De Sousa's conviction was final, and no retrial would be granted. In a move that shocked De Sousa and others in the intelligence community, Portugal's high court ordered her immediate extradition.
Hoekstra, working on behalf of De Sousa, appealed to Trump administration officials for help.
On Tuesday, De Sousa received a "partial pardon" from Italian President Sergio Mattarella for her alleged part in the operation.
Under Italian law, the sentence reduction -- from four years to three -- meant De Sousa did not have to be extradited to Italy and imprisoned afterall. She was released Wednesday afternoon from a prison in Portugal.
"I had an arrest warrant issued against me 11 long years ago that prevented me from seeing members of my immediate family in Europe," De Sousa said in a statement to Fox News on Friday. "Finally, I can rest with the assurance there is no warrant hanging over my head."
"In six short weeks, the Trump administration has given me more hope and support than I ever received in the past eight years from the Obama Administration or the CIA, my former employer," she said. "I had feared that the country I signed up with in good faith to serve had abandoned me."
The top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee Thursday accused the FBI of stonewalling the committees efforts to find out more about the agencys investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., said that we know less than a fraction of what the FBI knows after an almost four hour meeting with FBI Director James Comey on allegations of Russian interference.
I appreciate the long briefing and testimony from Director Comey today, but in order for us to do our investigation in a thorough and thoughtful way we're going to need the FBI to fully cooperate and tell us the length and breadth of counterintelligence investigations they are conducting, he told reporters after the briefing. At this point the director was not willing to do that.
"On the areas he was willing to discuss, we had a very in-depth set of questions and answers," Schiff said. "But there were very large areas that were walled off and those walls are gonna have to come down if we're going to do our job."
Schiff went on to say that if the FBI continued not to cooperate, they would have to consider subpoenaing information from the agency.
However, Schiffs Republican counterpart and Chairman Devin Nunes, R-Calif., did not share Schiffs assessment of the meeting. Instead, Nunes said Comey was forthright and that the meeting was a good first step in the panels investigation. He did concede that more information from the intelligence community would be necessary.
Later, Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-S.C., defended Comey in an interview on Fox News The First 100 Days" Gowdy said he never heard a federal law enforcement agent give that degree of particularity and detail an update on an inquiry.
"I want to investigate all aspects of (Russian activity against the U.S.) ... But Congress does not run parallel criminal investigations with the FBI. Were not equipped to do it. Were not supposed to do it, Gowdy told Fox News' Martha MacCallum.
On Wednesday, the committee released a statement outlining the scope of its investigation, namely that it will include Russian cyber activity and links between Russia and members of political campaigns. It also said it was probing leaks of classified information.
The briefing came before Sessions announced he was recusing himself from an investigation into alleged ties between Donald Trumps campaign and Russia. The Washington Post first reported Wednesday Sessions met with the Russian ambassador twice last year and did not tell senators about the meetings during his confirmation hearing.
Fox News Jason Donner and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
President Trump on Friday morning revived his criticism of Senate Democrats for allegedly slow-walking his Cabinet picks, pressing them to allow his last remaining nominees through.
It is so pathetic that the Dems have still not approved my full Cabinet, Trump tweeted.
The Senate, after a significant delay, recently has picked up the pace, moving to confirm Ryan Zinke for interior secretary on Wednesday and Ben Carson for housing secretary and Rick Perry for energy secretary on Thursday.
Two more Cabinet secretary nominees, though, remain under consideration in the Senate, as Trump nears the halfway mark of his first 100 days.
Part of the blame may lie with the administration, which still hasnt formally sent the paperwork to the Senate for the nomination of former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue to lead the Agriculture Department.
The delay is frustrating farm-state senators, who represent many of the core voters responsible for helping elect Trump.
The Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee needs the paperwork before the chairman, Sen. Pat Roberts, can schedule a confirmation hearing.
"I don't know yet," Roberts, R-Kan., said Wednesday when asked about Perdue's information. "I wish to hell I did. We need a champion for agriculture, we need him on board."
Roberts also complained about the delay at a committee hearing in Kansas last week. He predicted that Perdue would be confirmed quickly once the Senate can get started on the nomination.
The White House said the paperwork, including ethics forms and an FBI background check, is coming soon. The only other nomination that hasn't been sent to Capitol Hill is that of Alexander Acosta, who was nominated to be labor secretary on Feb. 16 after the withdrawal of the original nominee, Andrew Puzder.
Senators say they haven't been given an explanation for the delay involving Perdue.
"They don't seem to have a reason as to why his name hasn't come up," Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, told reporters after asking around about the Perdue nomination.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
President Trump got to work exacting revenge Friday on top Democratic lawmakers for demanding his attorney general's resignation over past meetings with Russia's ambassador -- after pictures emerged of the same lawmakers in similar meetings, exposing them to "hypocrisy" charges.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., in particular, has egg on her face after she told Politico reporters that she had never met with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Not with this ambassador, no, she said.
But Politico unearthed a 2010 photo from a meeting of congressional lawmakers with then-Russian President Dmitriy Medvedev, at which both Pelosi and Kislyak were present.
Though a spokesman said she meant she has never had a private one-on-one with him, Republicans were quick to accuse her of misleading the public.
After earlier swiping at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., Trump tweeted: "I hereby demand a second investigation, after Schumer, of Pelosi for her close ties to Russia, and lying about it." (Trump posted three versions of the same tweet, after earlier versions included a misspelling.)
I hereby demand a second investigation, after Schumer, of Pelosi for her close ties to Russia, and lying about it. https://t.co/qCDljfF3wN Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 3, 2017
Nancy Pelosis hypocrisy and utter disregard for the truth has gummed up the Democratic Partys faux outrage machine. She owes an explanation for why she knowingly misled the American public, Jesse Hunt, spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee, said in a statement.
Both Pelosi and Schumer had called for Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign after it was revealed he met twice with Kislyak in 2016, despite telling lawmakers at his confirmation hearing he had no communications with Russian officials. Sessions has said he didnt mislead Congress as he was answering in the context of discussions related to the Trump campaign.
Trump also pounced on Schumer Friday after a picture made the rounds online showing the New York senator chowing down on a donut with President Vladimir Putin in 2003.
We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite! pic.twitter.com/Ik3yqjHzsA Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 3, 2017
The image had circulated as part of the conservative pushback against Democratic criticism of Sessions with outlets noting that a number of Democratic lawmakers also had met with the ambassador in the past.
Schumer quickly responded by saying that he would be happy to talk about his meeting with Putin, and threw the question back at Trump.
Days after urging Congress to fund education choice for low-income students, President Trump visited a private school in Florida where nearly 300 students are enrolled under a state program.
The choice of St. Andrews Catholic School in Orlando for his first presidential classroom visit was seen as a clear signal that Trumps educational agenda will place a priority on school choice. Accompanied by Florida Gov. Rick Scott, Sen. Marco Rubio, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and first daughter Ivanka Trump, the president toured a fourth-grade classroom.
College and heaven, the students, from mostly low-income households, replied in unison when Trump asked what goals they had set, according to the pool report.
Trump, who in a Tuesday address to Congress called education the civil rights issue of our time and urged a national school-choice bill, followed the classroom visit with a roundtable discussion on the issue with teachers and parents.
DeVos first trip to a school after being narrowly confirmed by the Senate came on Feb. 10, and was to a public school -- Jefferson Middle School Academy in Washington, D.C. Her reception was chilly, as protesters temporarily blocked her from going inside. DeVos, a vocal supporter of school choice and vouchers, is a frequent target of criticism by public school advocates and teachers unions.
White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer said Fridays visit by Trump and the entourage that accompanied him is the first in a series of important events related to the presidents education agenda.
Trumps choice of a Catholic school was not well-received by teachers unions. Randi Weingarten, American Federation of Teachers president, called it sad that Trumps first visit was to a private school.
Its sad that rather than listening to the public they are sworn to represent and who have a deep connection to public schools, Trump and DeVos first official joint trip is to a religious school, which they use as a backdrop for their ideological crusade, Weingarten said in a statement.
Trump is in Florida to push school choice and a backdoor voucher proposal as a way to turn education into a commodity, she added.
During the campaign, Trump floated the idea of a $20 billion block grant to be used to expand charter and private-school choice options, but his administration has yet to provide specifics on how that would be funded.
At St. Andrews, nearly 300 students are enrolled under the states tax credit scholarship program. Trump promoted the Florida model of school choice during his address to Congress when he invited a scholarship recipient, Denisha Merriweather, to sit in the gallery and recounted her success in his speech.
It is not clear whether the Florida model will serve as a basis for Trump. An administration official told Fox News it is too early to know exactly what [a Trump administration plan] will look like.
In Florida, 97,926 scholarships worth up to $5,886 were distributed in the current academic year under the Step Up program, which is entirely funded by corporate contributions given in exchange for dollar-for-dollar tax credits. Some 1,712 private schools admitted students whose average household income is $24,075.
Whatever the funding model, any effort to advance school choice faces opposition.
Lily Eskelsen Garcia, president of the National Education Association, charged Trumps Tuesday address is evidence he is pursuing a failed agenda that will steal taxpayer dollars from public education to fund private schools through a national voucher program.
But Ron Matus of the Step-Up Foundation, which oversees Floridas choice program, told Fox News the Florida model has actually saved money.
The actual value of this scholarship is less than educating a student in public schools, and eight different studies have shown that the fiscal impact of the program is that money is actually saved and can be invested in public schools, said Matus.
President Donald Trump will meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the White House later this month.
A White House official says the meeting will take place on March 14. It will be the first in-person meeting between Trump and the German chancellor since the U.S. election.
Trump frequently criticized Merkel during his presidential campaign, accusing her of "ruining Germany" by taking in large numbers of refugees. Merkel, who wields significant sway in Europe, was critical of Trump's refugee and immigration travel ban, which was blocked by the courts.
The White House official was not authorized to publicly confirm a visit that has not been formally announced and spoke on condition of anonymity.
The massive sewage spill in Tijuana, Mexico that polluted Southern California beaches last month appeared to be a deliberate move, a local official said.
More than 140 million gallons of sewage spilled into the Tijuana River in Mexico that flowed into the Pacific Ocean on the U.S. side of the border.
The spill, which spanned from Feb. 4 to Feb. 23, was caused during repairs to a major sewer pipe, the International Boundary and Water Commission said
Serge Dedina, the mayor of Imperial Beach which is located about 10 miles outside Tijuana, told the Los Angeles Times the spill looks like it was deliberate.
It saves (the Mexican agencies) a lot of money in pumping costs, and ultimately, they can get away with it and do it all the time, just on a much smaller scale, Dedina said.
He described the incident as the tsunami of sewage spills.
San Diego County beaches, which typically would be closed by such a spill, were already off-limits to swimmers and surfers due to runoff as a result of recent storms, Dedina said.
Imperial Beach, for example, was closed for days in 2012 after a pipe broke in Tijuana and spewed nearly 3 million gallons of sewage into the ocean.
Over the years, several large sewage spills on both sides of the border have worsened conditions in the Tijuana River, one of the most polluted waterways in the country, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. Old sewage infrastructure in Tijuana and the lack of any plumbing in some residences there have been blamed for the problem.
Dedina said last week his office will seek an investigation into the spill and its aftermath, adding that U.S. officials must make fixing sewage infrastructure a priority and issue of national security.
Dave Gibson, an executive officer of the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board, agreed with Dedina's assessment. He said, "at least a notification would be a good neighborly thing to do, to let us know what was coming down the river before it got here so we could alert the public."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Click for more from the Los Angeles Times.
A North Carolina congressman is calling for a probe into a potential $418 million contract between Kenya and a major U.S. defense contractor announced on President Obama's last day in office -- a deal the lawmaker claims reeks of cronyism.
Republican Rep. Ted Budd wants the Government Accountability Office to investigate a deal between the African nation and New York-based L3 Technologies for the sale of 12 weaponized border patrol planes. He said he wants to know why a veteran-owned small company in North Carolina which specializes in making such planes was not considered as the manufacturer.
IOMAX USA Inc., based in Mooresville and founded by a U.S. Army veteran, offered to build Kenya the weaponized planes for roughly $281 million far cheaper than what its competitor, L3, is selling them for.
"Something smells wrong here," Budd told Fox News. "The U.S. Air Force bypassed IOMAX, which has 50 of these planes already in service in the Middle East."
"They were given a raw deal," Budd said of Kenya, which had requested from the U.S. 12 weaponized planes in its fight against terrorist group Al-Shabaab near its northern border.
"We want to treat our allies like Kenya fairly," he said. "And we want to know why IOMAX was not considered."
A State Department spokesman did not respond to a request for comment about the deal.
A source with knowledge of the negotiations told Fox News the program was in development with the State Department for at least a year and its announcement on Obama's last day in office was "pure coincidence."
L3, meanwhile, strongly dismissed any claim of favoritism in its deal with Kenya -- which was approved by the State Department, not the White House -- and pushed back on reports it has never built such aircraft.
"Any allegations questioning L3s experience producing this equipment or the 'fairness' of the process are misinformed or being intentionally perpetuated for competitive reasons," the company said in a statement to Fox News.
"L3 recently received approval from the U.S. State Department for a possible sale to Kenya of aircraft and related support, including Air Tractor AT-802L planes," the big contractor said. "L3 has delivered multiple missionized Air Tractor aircraft, which were similar to our offering to Kenya and have been fully certified for airworthiness by both FAA Supplemental Type Certificate and U.S. Air Force military type certification."
"L3 is the only company with an aircraft that has these certifications," L3 said.
But Ron Howard, the U.S. Army veteran who started IOMAX in 2001, said, "We're the only ones" making the specific weaponized planes that Kenya has requested.
IOMAX's factory in Albany, Ga., modifies crop dusters into planes fortified with such weapons as Hellfire missiles as well as surveillance equipment. The weaponized plane is called the Archangel, Howard said, and can shoot or bomb with great precision from 20,000 feet.
"The airplane is especially designed to be quiet and cant be heard," Howard told Fox News. He said IOMAX has many already operating in the Middle East -- purchased by the United Arab Emirates and dispersed to other countries in the region, such as Jordan and Egypt.
IOMAX has 208 employees, half of whom are U.S. veterans, Howard said.
In February, Robert Godec, U.S. ambassador to Kenya, said, "The U.S. military sales process requires notification of the U.S. Congress and allows oversight committees and commercial competitors the opportunity to review the entire package before it is offered to a potential buyer."
Godec said the Kenyan government has not signed any agreement to purchase aircraft from the U.S. and called the process underway "transparent, open, and proper."
"This potential military sale would be carried out wholly in keeping with appropriate laws and regulations," he said. "The United States stands with Kenya in the fight against terrorism."
Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak travels the country, engaging with Americans other officials of his stature would otherwise ignore.
This is the job of Moscows top diplomat in the United States, and those who know him say he performs it well.
Kislyak has always done a good job making sure that hes kind of talking to everyone, so when Democrats are in power he talks to Democrats but he also talks to Republicans, said Matthew Rojansky, a Soviet and Russia scholar and the director of the Kennan Institute at the Woodrow Wilson Center.
It is that job proficiency that in the last few weeks led to intense controversy in Washington, first for ex-National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and most recently Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Their conversations with Kislyak, and subsequent denial of them, led President Trump to request Flynns resignation and Sessions to recuse himself from inquiries into Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign.
But while Kislyaks name suddenly was thrust into the headlines, he is no stranger to the Washington establishment.
Rojansky said he is unaware of any Russian policy official in Washington who has yet to speak with the Russian diplomat, noting he has also interacted with Kislyak. He travels a lot and gives lectures and he talks to students so hes clearly getting the sort of zeitgeist of whats going on in American society, which you know during the election very, very important, he said.
Kislyak has served as Russias ambassador to the United States since 2008 a long tenure among ambassadors though relatively modest for top Russian diplomats. He was born in 1950 in Moscow; earned a degree in nuclear physics and negotiated nuclear arms control agreements as a result; began working at the Soviet Foreign Ministry in 1977; and was posted to represent the Soviet Union and Russia at the United Nations, Belgium and NATO, according to his Russian Embassy biography.
Days after the election his government is accused of interfering in, Kislyak spoke at Stanford University. In a nearly 90-minute session, he described the U.S.-Russia relationship as at its lowest point since the Cold War.
Im frequently asked are we back in the Cold War? And in my view, no, said Kislyak. Because in the Cold War there were irreconcilable ideological differences and the military cultures of both sides that would threaten survival of the other. I hope we are not there.
He said the relationship between the United States is improved from the Cold War days because he claimed Russia is now a market economy and developing democracy.
There are no ideological divides, but difficulties still exist, he said. And they prove to be significantly more difficult than I would have expected when I came here after the events in 2008 with the conflict in Georgia.
Kislyak said there is potential for the U.S. and Russia to improve relations because of their commonality of challenges. He cited religious intolerance, climate change and terrorism.
He denied Russia initiated this latest tension and provided a list of offenses his government accuses the U.S. of committing. It was an address typical of Kislyak, according to several who said they know him, as he defended his government throughout the event.
A California high schools $15,000 investment in Snap five years ago is now worth $24 million following the companys IPO this week, with many millions more to come.
If every school in America had a kid who had a parent like Barry Eggers, our nations education problems would all be solved. On Thursday, thanks to Eggers advice, a California private school watched from the West Coast as its investment of $15,000 reaped a windfall on the New York Stock Exchange: $24 million.
This would not have happened if Eggers, a founding partner at a Silicon Valley venture capital firm called Lightspeed Venture Partners, hadnt come home from work five years ago, walked into his kitchen and found his daughter Natalie and some of her high school friends sitting at the table with their noses buried in their smartphones. They were laughing.
UBER CEO APOLOGIZES FOR OUTBURST AT DRIVER
Eggers asked them what they were up to, and, as he wrote on a blog post Thursday, My daughter looked up at me and said: Dad, have you seen this app?
Natalie explained that it was a new social media app that she and her friends were using to send pictures to each other, that the pictures would vanish a few seconds after they were viewed, that all the kids at school were using it.
It was called Snapchat, Natalie said.
DIGITALLY DESIRABLE: DATING APP LETS USERS UPLOAD FACE PICS THEY FIND ATTRACTIVE
When her brother Andrew came home, he told his dad that it wasnt just for girls. Boys were using it, too.
That was enough to persuade Eggers to meet with the apps co-founders, a couple of guys named Evan Spiegel and Bobby Murphy, who were working out of a dorm room at Stanford University.
Because geniuses deserve better housing, Eggers persuaded his partners to invest $500,000 in their fledgling business. On Thursday, five years later, their company, Snap, held its initial public offering. By the end of the day, the company was worth about $34 billion.
FOR THE LATEST TECH FEATURES FOLLOW FOX SCITECH ON FACEBOOK
And what does this have to do with Americas education system?
It turns out that Eggers actually persuaded his partners to cough up only $485,000 of the $500,000 investment. On his invitation, Natalie and Andrews school, St. Francis High School in Mountain View, Calif., chipped in the remaining $15,000.
The school held onto the investment until this week, when Snap shares sold for $17 each in an IPO. St. Francis sold 1.4 million shares at that price generating a gain of about $24 million. The stock since soared to about $29 as of Friday morning, making the remaining 600,000 shares that the school owns worth roughly $17 million.
THE WEEK IN PICTURES
So much for bake sales.
Saint Francis has been blessed to have parents who so passionately and generously share their gifts with the school, be it time, creativity, expertise or philosophy, the schools president, Simon Chiu, wrote in a letter to parents. Barry Eggers now joins the illustrious list of individuals and families whose foresight and generosity have enriched Saint Francis High School over the years.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
One Ukrainian soldier killed, over 20 injured in Donbas in past 24 hours
Ukrainian army casualties in Donbas over the past 24 hours have amounted to one serviceman killed and 22 injured, Ukrainian Defense Ministry spokesman Andriy Lysenko said.
"Over the past 24 hours, as result of fighting, one Ukrainian military serviceman has been killed, 22 sustained wounds and injuries," Lysenko said at a briefing in Kyiv on Friday.
In the Luhansk sector, 27 shell attacks on the Ukrainian positions, including 18 with heavy weapons, have been registered over the period, he said.
In the Donetsk sector, 30 enemy attacks were registered, including 13 with heavy weapons, Lysenko said.
In the Avdiyivka sector, the enemy launched over 200 mortar rounds and over 80 tank shells in the past 24 hours. A sniper was active in Kamianka.
Near the Donetsk airport, low-intensity hostilities continued, Lysenko said.
In the Mariupol sector, there were 59 shell attacks, including 12 with heavy weapons. Thus, in Krasnohorivka, a 70-year-old woman was injured, Lysenko said.
Delta will no longer fly its loudest planes at LaGuardia in response to repeated complaints from Queens residents, the company announced Thursday.
The airline replaced its MD-88 aircraft with quieter, more fuel-efficient Airbus A320 planes, Boeing 737s, and a handful of MD-90 mainline aircraft, company officials said. The new planes started their routes on Thursday.
Were committed to providing our customers an exceptional flying experience when traveling through New York airports while also considering our responsibility to the communities where we live and serve, said Henry Kuykendall, Deltas vice president for New York.
Delta flights on quieter, more efficient and larger aircraft are good for the community and will also support NextGen initiatives around more fuel-efficient GPS routes in New York airspace, the most congested in the world.
Queens residents, who have been bombarded with near-constant house-vibrating noise since the Federal Aviation Administration changed up flight paths four years ago, say they are thrilled by the news.
This story originally appeared on NYPost.com.
Joyce Stochmal was a 19-year-old college graduate and aspiring veterinarian when she was stabbed to death in August 1984 while walking to her job at an animal clinic in a small Connecticut town.
On Thursday, some 33 years after the murder, the man convicted of killing Stochmal was set free by a Connecticut judge in a move that stunned the woman's family, victims' rights advocates and state lawmakers.
"Justice is truly blind," the woman's parents, Charles and Mary Ann, said in a courtroom statement. "Our family still grieves Time should heal but in our case it intensifies now with an individual found guilty and convicted to 60 years is going free after not even half of his sentence."
David Weinberg, now 58, was convicted in 1989 of the murder of Stochmal, who was abducted, beaten and stabbed 17 times before her body was disposed in a lake in Newtown, Connecticut. Weinberg was sentenced to 60 years to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
But Weinberg's sentence was cut short Thursday -- after serving 26 years in prison -- and he emerged from the Waterbury District Superior Court able to live freely -- though he was not exonerated and his murder conviction remains intact.
Weinberg's "sentence modification" was made possible through the help of the Connecticut Innocence Project, a nonprofit, taxpayer-funded organization that works to exonerate wrongly convicted people through the use of DNA testing. Darcy McGraw, the group's director, told the judge Thursday that her client has always maintained his innocence and that there is no physical evidence linking him to the crime.
"The jury at the time of his conviction did not have before it the evidence that we have today," McGraw told the court. "The conviction in this case lacks integrity."
Stochmal's family, however, said state police and prosecutors launched an extensive investigation that proved Weinberg's guilt in a court of law -- and called Thursday's ruling "an atrocity." They also said the Connecticut Innocence Project has since presented no proof of his innocence.
"This was a complex circumstantial case that was diligently investigated by state police and prosecuted exceptionally well," the victim's older sister, Marianne Hefferman, told reporters outside the courthouse.
"David Weinberg was found guilty then. He is guilty still," she said. "The fact that he is about to walk out of this courthouse as a convicted murderer is something that every resident in this state should be upset about. And he used tax dollars to do it."
On Aug. 3, 1984, Stochmal had dinner with her family in Seymour before leaving home at around 10:30 p.m. for an overnight shift at the Silver Hills Kennel in Ansonia. The young woman had just completed her associate degree in veterinary science at Becker Junior College.
Authorities said Weinberg was driving along Route 188 when he spotted Stochmal walking alone -- her purse and duffel bag in hand, which included a small makeup case, Calvin Klein jeans and an orange T-shirt.
According to police, Weinberg grabbed Stochmal and took her to an area beneath Steel Bridge, where he stabbed her 17 times and left her for dead in the waters of Lake Zoar. Her body was found three days later by a man and two young boys fishing at the lake.
Weinberg's girlfriend told state police investigators that his behavior in the days following the murder was suspicious. The woman, identified as Debby Lester, said Weinberg painted the rims of his car wheels black from white and noted that he stopped carrying a buck knife on his belt as was his habit.
Lester also claimed Weinberg brought her to a small campfire near the Pomperaug River, where state police later recovered charred items belonging to Stochmal. Those items included orange fabric consistent with that of her T-shirt and a Calvin Klein button.
In May 1985, Weinberg was arrested and charged with murder. A jury found him guilty three years later after 10 hours of deliberations. His attorney, John R. Williams, immediately filed an appeal with the Connecticut Supreme Court. On Jan. 6, 1989, Weinberg was sentenced to 60 years to life in prison without the possibility of parole. After years of appeals, the state appellate court affirmed the murder conviction on Jan. 13, 2009.
After Weinberg's incarceration, a new defense attorney filed a habeas corpus action on his behalf, arguing Weinberg had "ineffective counsel" at his murder trial.
In 2010, the Connecticut Innocence Project (CTIP) -- one of five publicly funded Innocence Projects nationally -- filed a new habeas motion on Weinberg's behalf. Last month, State's Attorney Maureen Platt and McGraw signed off on a motion for "sentence modification."
That modification changes Weinberg's life sentence without possibility of parole to "time served." According to the court, Weinberg has served approximately 28 years of "real time" plus approximately 12 years of accrued "good time" credits -- totaling 40 years.
In testimony before Judge Roland Fasano of the Waterbury District Superior Court, both Platt and McGraw spoke about evidentiary problems in the case. Platt said, after speaking with CTIP, "We would have difficulty sustaining the conviction at the habeas level," noting there "wasn't just one problem" but several.
McGraw stressed the lack of physical evidence linking her client to the murder. She also said foreign DNA found underneath Stochmal's fingernail did not belong to Weinberg -- a finding she said "excludes" her client.
She also described Weinberg's then-girlfriend as "seriously mentally ill." Police reports from the time document the girlfriend as having a long history of mental illness, including delusions and hallucinations.
But Stochmal's family maintains the integrity of the investigation and the jury's 1989 conviction.
James Stochmal told the judge that in the case of Weinberg, CTIP "got it 100 percent wrong."
The judge, who called the resolution "appropriate," asked Weinberg Thursday if he agreed to waive any and all challenges to his murder conviction.
"Your standing is that of a convicted murderer -- do you understand that?" Fasano asked Weinberg, who stood expressionless, dressed in a dark suit with his hands folded.
"Yes, your Honor," he said.
Heffernan and her family -- who all wore pins saying "Justice for Joyce" -- said Weinberg's release reopened a wound her family has endured for 33 years. She also said she believes Weinberg -- who has a criminal record, including sexual assault -- poses a threat to the public.
"Now that the Innocence Project has facilitated the release of David Weinberg, it has opened the door for similar deals," Heffernan said.
"The Innocence Project did nothing to prove his innocence, but now David Weinberg can go anywhere, as a convicted murderer. No one will be watching him. He is free to harm again."
A transgender woman arrested by immigration agents while at a courthouse for a protective order hearing had admitted to a money order scheme weeks before, an affidavit shows.
Irvin Gonzalez, an undocumented immigrant from Mexico, was arrested on Feb. 9 in El Paso County Courthouse.
A criminal complaint with a supporting affidavit filed Tuesday by Border Patrol Agent Humberto Chavira states that Gonzalez admitted to the crime on Jan. 13, after she and her partner Mario De Avila were caught stealing mail from blue U.S. Post Office drop-off boxes.
ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT TAKES REFUGE IN DENVER CHURCH TO AVOID DEPORTATION
According to the affidavit, the scheme consisted in taking money orders, washing the name off with transmission fluid, adding De Avilas name and depositing the money into his bank account.
De Avila was arrested and charged with forgery.
A couple of weeks after the incident, El Paso Police Department Authorities alerted a Border Patrol agent of Gonzalezs presence in the country during a follow up interview she had openly admitted to cops that she was in the U.S. illegally. She had also volunteered that she had a protective order (against De Avila) hearing on Feb. 9.
AGENTS DETAIL 'DAILY' BORDER FENCE BATTLE, SEEK POST-OBAMA 'RESTART'
Federal officials used that information to look up her hearing and showed up to the courthouse, the affidavit says.
The case got attention from Congressman Beto ORourke and El Paso County leaders, who expressed concern over the fact that she was arrested inside a courthouse.
MAN SUSPECTED IN AMBER ALERT HAD BEEN PREVIOUSLY DEPORTED
The public defender representing Gonzalez filed a petition for her immediate release saying that a Border Patrol agent perjured himself because in a first version of the affidavit he wrote that the arrest happened outside the building. Security footage shows them escorting her out from the 10th floor of the courthouse.
Jail records show Gonzalez, who was charged with forgery on Feb. 15, remains in the El Paso County jail.
She was first arrested and voluntarily returned to Mexico on June 5, 2007. She was then deported again, twice in 2011, once in 2013, 2014, and 2016.
In 2011 she was sentenced to over a year in jail for crimes including domestic battery, illegal entry, and possession of stolen mail.
A Georgia woman was arrested Wednesday after she reportedly slammed into a chicken truck, fled and then told officers who tracked her down that she hit the vehicle because she was a vegan.
The investigation began when a truck driver told police he was traveling west on Highway 72 when a red four-door car hit his truck twice, WXIA-TV reported.
The unidentified truck driver called police as the car fled. Madison County deputies found the cars license plate in debris left in the wake of the crash. They were able to track the cars owner to Comer, Georgia, where they found the vehicle and a driver matching the drivers vague description.
The woman, identified as 26-year-old Judith Armstrong, refused to come out of her house unless deputies secured a warrant. But, she did speak with them through the windows and explained what happened.
Authorities said Armstrong faces charges of hit-and-run, aggressive driving, driving under the influence, and obstruction. It was unknown if shes represented by an attorney and bond information was not immediately available.
During questioning, Armstrong admitted being involved in an accident and fled for fear of what would happen to her license. She also told officers she hit the truck because she was vegan.
In addition, she denied having alcohol before making the drive but claimed to have taken a couple of shots when she arrived home.
Officers eventually obtained a warrant and she surrendered to police. She was tested for alcohol consumption and blew a .089, which is over the legal limit.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
The cost of Food Stamps, or SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), has ballooned the past two decades.
It went from having a price tag of $17 billion in 2000 to costing $71 billion last year.
Thats why President Trump said he wants to clamp down on government-subsidy programs.
Trump brought up the controversial issue during his speech to Congress on Tuesday, when he said over 43 million people are now living in poverty. And over 43 million Americans are on food stamps.
Trump has long been a proponent of scaling back welfare programs. In his 2011 book, Time to Get Tough, he wrote that while the programs are necessary, too many people become dependent on them.
"The food stamp program was originally created as temporary assistance for families with momentary times of need, he wrote in his book. And it shouldn't be needed often.
Many believe government assistance programs are too often abused and they need to be reformed to cut down on fraud.
But others say that any changes to SNAP could cut off access to people who really need it, and they vow to vehemently fight any effort to alter it.
About 45 percent of households headed by immigrants with children use food-assistance programs, according to a study by the National Academy of Sciences. Reports last month said Trump had drafted an executive order that would reduce the number of immigrants using government assistance. Its unclear, however, if Trump had approved the draft.
Kelly Brown, executive director of North Helpline, a Seattle food bank that serves 800 people a week, told Fox News that about 50 percent of the people they serve receive food stamps.
I think it's taking people a long time to adjust, Brown said, and food is definitely one of the staples that you need to make sure immediate needs are being met.
In 2000, there were 17 million people participating in SNAP. Last year, 44 million were participating. The increases greatly outnumber the rise in population.
The Department of Agriculture, which runs SNAP, has claimed trafficking (illegally selling SNAP benefits for cash) accounts for over 1 percent of every dollar spent on the program, and that improper payment rates for SNAP in recent years are close to 4 percent.
But some critics of the program estimate the amount of fraud alone is much higher.
Even using the lowest numbers, food stamp fraud and waste cost taxpayers billions of dollars every year.
How President Trump and Sonny Perdue, his nominee for Secretary of Agriculture, would tackle SNAP is unknown. When reached by Fox News, the USDA said it had no comment.
But one thing is almost certain: SNAP will likely be overhauled in the next few years.
The Akron Police Department is investigating a possible serial exposer.
Officers were called to the area of Delia and Greenwood avenues in Akron at about 8:30 a.m. Friday. A woman reported she was walking her dog when a man exposed himself to her.
The woman got his license plate and police were able to identify him as 27-year-old David Thomas, Jr. He was arrested and charged with one count of public indecency.
Akron police said he may have exposed himself to other women in the area over the last few months. The other incidents happened around the Forest Lodge Community Center in Elm Hill Park and Schneider Park.
Click here for more from Fox 8.
Two inmates were killed and others were injured in a Nebraska prison Thursday after inmates revolted against staff members and started a fire in a courtyard.
Prison officials offered few details about the deaths but said the disturbance at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution in southeast Nebraska involved about 40 inmates in a unit with 128 prisoners. The prison was placed on lockdown for several hours after the inmates refused to return to their cells.
No prison employees were injured. An unspecified number of inmates suffered injuries that weren't life-threatening, said Department of Correctional Services Director Scott Frakes. He said the two unidentified inmates killed were found inside the housing unit.
"This incident is a reminder that this is a dangerous business," Frakes said.
A department spokeswoman said an emergency response team secured the inmates and extinguished a fire in a prison yard. The incident was isolated to half of the housing unit and a small fenced-in yard, spokeswoman Dawn-Renee Smith said.
Smith announced the lockdown around 2:45 p.m. and said around 5:30 p.m. that the housing unit was "habitable and secure."
In a statement, Gov. Pete Ricketts said the incident was "swiftly resolved and public safety was never at risk."
"Director Frakes will thoroughly investigate this incident, and inmates involved in the incident and the loss of life will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law," Ricketts said.
The incident took place at the same housing unit where two other inmates were killed during a May 2015 riot that caused roughly $2 million in damage. That riot, which also left several staff members injured, involved several hundred inmates in three living units, a gym and a courtyard. An investigation later found that prisoners were trying to air grievances about what they viewed as perks given to certain inmates and not others and disrespect by inexperienced staff members.
On Thursday afternoon, inmates in gray hooded sweatshirts could be seen waving their arms in the yard as prison guards watched them from behind a razor wire fence. Smoke billowed from the open yard and a helicopter circled overhead. County and state officials were at the scene, along with a prison emergency response team.
Mike Marvin, who heads the union that represents corrections employees, said he was told that inmates had taken mattresses out into the prison yard and threw them into the fire. Marvin said he didn't know why the inmates were protesting.
Doug Koebernick, an inspector general who oversees the corrections department, said he plans to conduct "a full investigation into the circumstances and catalysts of the riot."
An Oregon judge is being investigated after she allegedly helped an illegal immigrant elude ICE agents in January by guiding the man through a private entrance at the courthouse.
Multnomah County Judge Monica Heeranz was notified by court staff that ICE agents were waiting outside her courtroom to possibly apprehend Diddier Pacheco Salazar, a 22-year-old Mexican national attending a DUI hearing, U.S. Attorney Billy Willaims said.
Specific details about what happend inside the courtroom next is not clear. But Salazar reportedly somehow managed to leave the room using an employee exit.
"I prepped my client. I said, 'I don't know if they're going to pick you up outside or what, but here's how to prepare,'" John Schlosser, Salazar's court appointed lawyer, told a local paper. "After the court appearance, I went out in the hallway and sat. My client never came out. I can't say that I'm surprised he didn't come out, but I gave him his options, and assume he had to have been escorted out some other way."
Salazar was arrested two weeks after the incident.
ICE agents decided not to investigate Herranz, who is also on the board of directors of the Oregon Hispanic Bar Association, but Chief Judge Nan Waller is conducting an internal investigation.
Waller told Fox 12 Oregon she wants to figure out what happened before discussing the situation.
Williams calls Herranzs alleged actions troubling.
When youre talking about the judicial system whether its federal or by state you have an expectation that people are going to abide by the law and not take steps based on their own motivations, their own politics whatever the motivation was.
Click for more from Fox 12 Oregon.
An Oregon woman and her 13-year-old son who were critically burned in a house fire that killed four others died Thursday at a Portland hospital.
Tabitha Howell, 38, and her son Andrew Hall-Young died within an hour of each other, an official with the Multnomah County Medical Examiner's Office said.'
The official said both died from injuries sustained in the fire on Wednesday that also killed her four children aged 4 to 13.
James Howell, 39, Tabitha's husband, was listed in critical condition in the Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland. Howell is the father of the youngest victim and the stepfather of the three victims.
Combustible materials placed too closely to the portable-space heater ignited and started the blaze, Fire Protection District Chief Rich Holloway said. The fire occured in Riddle, which is about 200 miles south of Portland.
"All the burn-pattern indicators, witness statements and the statement from the father on first arrival, all collaborate," Holloway wrote in a Facebook post.
Grief counselors were on hand at schools in the South Umpqua School District, where some of the children attended.
The other victims of the fire included 4-year-old Gwendolyn "Gracie" Howell, 7-year-old Haley Maher, 10-year-old Isaiah Young and 13-year-old Nicholas Lowe. Lowe was a foster child.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko believes that law enforcement agencies will be able to conduct a successful investigation of head of the State Fiscal Service Roman Nasirov.
"I think that everyone is equal before the law and that independent law enforcement agencies are able to do their work by the book," Poroshenko told Interfax-Ukraine in Kharkov on Friday.
In his opinion, the independent anti-corruption agencies have all they need to finish the job.
"I am confident that the creation of an independent anti-corruption infrastructure, in which the president took part, only proves that it is truly independent and has the ability to do their job. The only thing is that it should be brought to completion and the case should be solid," the president stressed.
Two sets of human remains were found at a Virginia park on Thursday, police said.
Fairfax County Police said they started searching for remains at Holmes Run Park in Lincolnia after receiving a tip that a crime had been committed there, FOX 5 DC reported.
No additional information was immediately available.
TEEN ARRESTED AFTER RAMMING INTO COP'S CAR DURING TRAFFIC STOP
On Thursday, detectives said evidence of a crime at the park had been found, but had not discovered remains.
"That is something that we can't release right now," said Fairfax County Police Lt. Brian Gaydos told FOX 5 DC at the time. Detectives are looking into where this information is coming from and the credibility of it. But we don't want to receive this information and do nothing, so we want to make sure we are out here and we are leaving no stone unturned in our search.
POLICE: POSTING MAN'S LAST MOMENTS ON FACEBOOK NOT ILLEGAL
According to reports, Holmes Run Park had been the scene of a previous search for remains in 2014. FBI discovered two bodies inside the park.
Investigators said the victims were gang members who were murdered and decapitated. Seven men were convicted for the crime, FOX 5 DC reported.
Click here for more news from FOX 5 DC.
San Francisco has taken its defiance of the feds to a new level, ending its cooperation with the FBI in an anti-terror initiative begun after 9/11 - a move crtitics say could get innocent people killed.
Critics say the sanctuary city by the bay's latest decision to forego cooperation with Washington, by dropping out of the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force, could put lives at risk. The JTTF has been credited with foiling 93 Islamist terrorist attacks and plots against the U.S. since 2001, including 12 this year, according to the Washington, D.C.-based Heritage Foundation. There are another 1,000 investigations into suspected terror activity nationwide.
These staggering statistics make the recent decision by the San Francisco police department to end the citys partnership with the JTTF, at the behest of local activist groups that alleged Arabs and Muslims are wrongly targeted by the FBI and will be more so under the Trump administration, all the more concerning, said retired federal law enforcement officials.
There is less chance of uncovering networks, plots, missing pieces of a puzzle, without cities participating in the JTTF." Claude Arnold, former ICE investigator
In my opinion, the decision by the mayor and the police chief to withdraw the San Francisco Police Department from the JTTF is really narrow-minded, said Mark Rossini, a retired FBI special agent, and founding executive of the National Counterterrorism Center, who served as a representative to the CIAs Counterterrorist Center. Politics aside, and the mayor and leaders of San Francisco have their right to their opinion, political opinion and beliefs. But when youre working in law enforcement, law enforcement should know no politics.
The FBI leads the 104 Joint Terrorism Task Force units across the country, but the majority of intelligence about crime and terror comes from local sources, said Claude Arnold, a former U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations, who worked in California.
There is less chance of uncovering networks, plots, missing pieces of a puzzle, without cities participating in the JTTF, Arnold said.
San Francisco police have dozens of undercover agents and contacts in immigrant communities helpful to federal law enforcement investigations. Conversely, two San Francisco police are federally deputized for the JTTF, and as a result have access to classified intelligence.
Information must flow both ways in these cases, Rossini said. By San Francisco pulling out, youre losing that vital link of data that the FBI and the other federal agencies and the Department of Justice will need in order to complete its cases and investigate them thoroughly.
If San Franciscos withdrawal from the JTTF is permanent, it could impact the safety of Americans throughout the nation, said Lauren Anderson, a former FBI agent who led the international terrorism program of the FBIs New York JTTF, and now runs LCAnderson International Consulting.
In virtually every terrorist prevention or incident, local law enforcement was the first point of interaction, Anderson said.
The 2010 Times Square would-be bomber Faisal Shahzad is an example.
Two street vendors noticed a vehicle with smoke and told New York Police Department officers. Because NYPD was physically present on the JTTF, the information was shared immediately and members of the JTTF were at the scene in minutes, Anderson said.
The JTTF has prevented a number of terrorist attacks, many which crossed state lines, said David Inserra of the Heritage Foundation.
In July 2012 in Alabama, Ulugbek Kodirov was sentenced to 15 years in prison for plotting to kill President Barack Obama. In November 2012, Rezwan Ferdaus was sentenced to 17 years in prison for planning to bomb the Pentagon. In March 2015, Raees Alam Qazi and Sheheryar Alam Qazi were sentenced in Florida for a scheme to use a weapon of mass destruction in New York City.
Whether the San Francisco police department will renegotiate the JTTF memorandum of understanding or simply refuse to participate, isnt clear. A police department spokesperson would only say the agreement has expired and is under review.
Local activists critical of the JTTF cheered the decision by the newly appointed San Francisco police chief, on the job for just a week before pulling the plug on the partnership.
Local police, whose salaries are paid by local tax dollars, are required to follow federal law when they are deputized for the JTTF. In some cases, California laws conflict with federal law, said John Crew, a retired attorney who works with activist groups, including the ACLU and Council on American-Islamic Relations on law enforcement and civil rights matters.
This issue is really about the need for local police officers to comply with state and local laws and policies even when they are working with the FBI JTTF, Crew said.
Neither Crew, nor his many allies in San Francisco, are apprehensive area residents may be in danger because of a lack of representation on the JTTF.
Im not the least bit concerned, Crew said.
San Francisco police work with the Northern California Regional Intelligence Center, a government program focusing on criminal and terrorist activity, Crew said. He also maintains there is no reason police cannot work with the FBI on pressing terrorism-related investigations as long as they dont violate California law.
But Rossini and other former federal law enforcement said they worry the conflict may prevent vital leads from surfacing.
Last time I checked, were all part of the 50 states.So let us continue to work together when it comes to the law, when it comes to law enforcement, Rossini said. You want to do politics another day.
A 16-year-old girl was arrested for driving under the influence on Friday after she allegedly rammed her car into a patrol vehicle during a traffic stop.
Georgia State Patrol told FOX 5 Atlanta that a vehicle with three female inside was pulled over on Interstate 75 northbound in Buckhead for failure to maintain a lane and driving without headlines.
Investigators said the driver initially stopped the car but sped off, initiated a chase.
TEEN HIT BY TRAIN IN GEORGIA, LOSES FEET
The vehicle eventually pulled over into a parking lot where a trooper tried to block them in. The teen driver rammed into the troopers car.
The driver was arrested and the other two female passengers took off running. A search in the surrounding area came up empty.
GSP said the teenage driver was registered as missing by the Hapeville Police Department. She is now in custody at a juvenile detention center.
The trooper sustained no serious injuries, though complained of neck pain, officials said.
Click here for more news from FOX 5 Atlanta.
A lawyer for a Mexican national sentenced to eight years in prison for voter fraud in Texas says she's been released as her appeal is pending.
Attorney Clark Birdsall said 37-year-old Rosa Maria Ortega was released Thursday after posting a more than $11,000 bond. Ortega was convicted in Fort Worth last month on two felony counts of illegal voting.
Ortega is accused of improperly casting a ballot five times between 2005 and 2014. Birdsall has said Ortega is a permanent resident and mistakenly thought her green card allowed her to vote.
Birdsall says a state district judge this week granted his request for an appeal bond.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement says Ortega's immigration detainer was canceled Thursday. The agency says it removes detainers during an appeal in some cases.
Police in the Philippines faked evidence to justify killing suspects in the drug trade, according to a new report.
President Rodrigo Dutertes violent campaign against drugs has claimed more than 7,000 lives, according to the report, entitled License to Kill: Philippine Police Killings in Dutertes War on Drugs. Human Rights Watch, which conducted the study, accused Duterte and other senior officials of being directly behind killings of mostly poor, urban people.
Our investigations into the Philippine drug war found that police routinely kill drug suspects in cold blood and then cover up their crime by planting drugs and guns at the scene, said Peter Bouckaert, emergencies director at Human Rights Watch and author of the report. President Dutertes role in these killings makes him ultimately responsible for the deaths of thousands.
The 117-page report draws heavily upon interviews in the Manila metropolitan area with family members of victims and witnesses to police-involved killings, as well as journalists and human rights activists. A picture emerges in the report of the Philippine National police repeatedly killings of drug suspects and then falsely claiming self-defense. Its alleged in the report that they planted guns, spent ammo and packets of drugs on their victims.
Under the veneer of anti-drug operations, the Philippine police at Dutertes urging have killed thousands of Filipinos, Bouckaert said. Many killings of drug suspects followed the same deadly routine and indicate a pattern of police abuse.
Its also alleged that the National Police forces have been working in tandem with masked gunmen -- casting doubt on the governments claims that the majority of killings have been committed by vigilantes or rival drug gangs.
Some of the more violent incidents, as presented in the report, include:
Six masked gunmen burst into a Manila home where several teenagers were watching television. The men arrested and beat drug suspects Aljon Mesa and Jimboy Bolasa, and then took them away on motorcycles. A half hour later, after hearing from a uniformed policeman, relatives rushed to a nearby bridge to find the suspects bodies, both with gunshot wounds to the head, their hands were tied with cloth. The gunmen were still at the scene, while uniformed police cordoned off the area.
Paquito Mejos, a 53-year old father of five in Manila, turned himself in to authorities in October, 2016 after he learned that he was on a watch list for methamphetamine use. Two days later a gunman came to his home and asked for Mejos who was napping in a room on the second floor of his home. The gunman walked upstairs and fired two shots, killing Mejos. In the report, the police referred to him as a suspected drug pusher.
Five masked armed men broke into a house in Bulacan province where Oliver Dela Cruz, 43, was playing cards. The men grabbed him and slammed him into a concrete wall several times before bringing him out of the house and executing him.
The HRW report documents 24 incidents which led to the deaths of 32 people. Most of the incidents occurred late at night on the street or inside shacks in the urban slums. The assailants would usually bang on doors and barge into rooms without identifying themselves or with a warrant. Locals said they often saw police officials set up a perimeter before the shooting even occurred and investigators and crime scene units would show up almost immediately after the killings.
Since taking office on June 30, 2016, Duterte and other senior officials have been outspoken in support of a nationwide campaign to kill drug dealers and users, while denying or downplaying the illegality of police actions.
My order is shoot to kill you, Duterte warned drug dealers in August. I dont care about human rights, you better believe me.
The mysterious disappearance of two inseparable sisters three decades ago has been solved by Canadian police, who found the women living in the U.S. with new identities.
Anna and Kym Hakze fled Edmonton in the mid-1980s. Their mother reported them missing in 2003 after she hadn't seen or heard from them in more than a decade. The Lethbridge Police Service in Canada explained on Facebook Thursday how the case was solved through old-fashioned detective work.
Without going into a lot of details and to protect their privacy, they had just left due to some family turmoil, and had moved on and were living their own life as a result of that, said Lethbridge Police Sgt. Scott Woods, according to The Lethbridge Herald. He didnt release their new identities or location.
At one point police suspected the women may have been the victims of a serial killer in Vancouver.
In 2012 a tipster told detectives that an author with a different name was Anna Hakze but the tip didnt pan out.
WOMAN REPORTED MISSING FOUND WALKING ALONG CALIFORNIA FREEWAY
In January detectives checked it out again after a Vancouver woman showed them a 1984 newspaper clipping with the authors name.
In performing new online searches of the authors name from the old Crime Stopper tip, police located a recent news story which included a photo and the area where she was living, the Facebook post says.
The searches yielded a document in which the author listed a sister as a next of kin.
Police subsequently confirmed that those two persons were Kym and Anna Hakze through fingerprints.
Lethbridge police said in the Facebook post that Anna Kakze is now 67 and Kym Hakze is 53.
The post says that U.S. police spoke to Kym Hakze last week and that she told the officers she didnt know she and her sister had been reported missing. She added that the pair had walked away from their lives decades earlier and still wanted to maintain their privacy.
Their mother died four years ago never knowing what happened to them, The Calgary Sun reported.
The end of the missing person case doesnt provide closure, their brother told the paper.
Theres a longing there to see them, Ken Hakze, 57, of Edmonton, said. Im very sad we lost all these years for some reason Im not quite sure of yet. I have a real desire to see them and communicate with them very badly. My heart goes out to have that opportunity if they would soften their hearts to that.
Czech lawmakers are weighing a proposal to amend their constitution to guarantee citizens the right to keep and bear arms, according to EURACTIV.
Social Democrats, the eastern European nation's main party, support the right to acquire and carry a gun for the sake of safety. But other political parties, particularly ANO 2011, firmly oppose the amendment.
Interior Minister Milan Chovanec, who drafted the proposal, is optimistic it will be passed by the Czech Parliament, EURACTIV reported.
I think that we have very good negotiating position to get 120 votes needed to pass in Chamber of Deputies, Chovanec said.
Three-fifths of the Parliaments deputies and three-fifths of its senators must vote for the measure for it to pass.
Martin Plisek, from the opposition TOP 09 party, balked at the idea of the measure, saying it was keyed to October elections.
It is pure pre-election populism, because there is no need to set the right to possession of weapon by a constitutional law, he was quoted as saying by EURACTIV.
The Czech debate comes ahead of a vote by the European Parliament this month on restricting gun rights. Czechs who want the gun ownership amendment in their constitution see the proposal as a pre-emptive strike against possible EU gun ownership restrictions.
Supporters of the Czech measure say that it will help make the country more secure. They describe it as a step they want to take before the European Parliament moves to tighten gun ownership rules, according to Intellinews.com. Chovanec maintains that the possible EU gun control move could take thousands of guns from Czechs, Intellinews.com reported.
Some 800,000 Czechs own guns, the news outlet said.
We will do our best to protect their rights, Chovanec said. "In the beginning Europe had good intentions, but the realization could be given an F-."
Malaysian police on Friday released the only North Korean it had detained in the killing of the half brother of North Korea's leader, as it condemned the use of a banned nerve agent in the attack and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Ri Jong Chol, who had been detained since Feb. 17, four days after Kim Jong Nam's death, was handed over to immigration officials for deportation. Police never said what they had thought his role had been in the attack, but national police chief Khalid Abu Bakar confirmed Friday that Ri was released due to a lack of evidence against him.
Malaysian Attorney General Mohamad Apandi Ali has said that Ri would be deported because he didn't have any valid travel documents.
Two women one Indonesian, one Vietnamese have been charged with murdering Kim at an airport terminal Feb. 13. They were caught on grainy surveillance video smearing what Malaysian authorities say was VX nerve agent on his face and eyes, though both reportedly say they were duped into thinking they were playing a harmless prank.
Police are searching for seven North Korean suspects, including four believed to have left Malaysia the day Kim, the estranged half brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, was killed. One of the suspects believed to still be in Malaysia is an official at the North Korean Embassy.
A statement from Malaysia's Foreign Ministry ramped up the pressure on Pyongyang on Friday, saying it was "greatly concerned" with the use of the toxic chemical and condemning the use of such a chemical weapon under any circumstances.
"Its use at a public place could have endangered the general public," the foreign ministry said.
Malaysia has not directly accused North Korea of being behind the killing, but the statement came hours after a North Korean envoy rejected a Malaysian autopsy finding that VX nerve agent killed Kim, saying the man probably died of a heart attack because he suffered from heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Ri Tong Il, a former North Korean deputy ambassador to the United Nations, also said that if VX had been used, others besides Kim would have been killed or sickened.
Kim's death has unleashed a diplomatic battle between Malaysia and North Korea. On Thursday, Malaysia announced it is scrapping visa-free entry for North Koreans.
Malaysian officials say the two female suspects smeared VX nerve agent a banned chemical weapon on Kim's face as he waited for a flight at Kuala Lumpur's airport. Kim died within 20 minutes, authorities say. No bystanders reported falling ill.
Malaysia's autopsy finding that VX nerve agent killed Kim boosted speculation that North Korea orchestrated the attack. Experts say the oily poison was almost certainly produced in a sophisticated state weapons laboratory, and North Korea is widely believed to possess large quantities of chemical weapons including VX.
North Korea is trying to retrieve Kim's body, but it has not acknowledged that the victim is Kim Jong Un's half brother, as Malaysian government officials have confirmed.
Pyongyang refers to the victim as Kim Chol, the name on the diplomatic passport he was carrying when he died. Malaysian police are doing the same; they are seeking next-of-kin who could provide a DNA sample and make a positive identification, steps they say are needed for authorities to give up the body. Kim is believed to have two sons and a daughter with two women living in Beijing and Macau.
Khalid, the national police chief, brushed off the North Korean envoy's claim of a heart attack.
"We have our experts who are qualified to determine the cause of death of Kim Chol. Our investigations, supported by expert reports, confirmed that Kim Chol was murdered. North Korea can say what they like but the facts remain," Khalid told The Associated Press.
Malaysian police said the female suspects had been trained to go immediately to the bathroom and wash their hands after attacking Kim. The police said the four North Korean suspects who left the country the day of the killing put the VX liquid on the women's hands.
Police can't confirm whether the two women may have been given antidotes before the attack. An antidote, atropine, can be injected after exposure and is carried by medics in war zones where weapons of mass destruction are suspected.
North Korea has a long history of ordering killings of people it views as threats to its regime. Kim Jong Nam was not known to be seeking political power, but his position as eldest son of the family that has ruled North Korea since it was founded could have made him appear to be a danger.
Kim Jong Nam reportedly fell out of favor with his father, the late Kim Jong Il, in 2001, when he was caught trying to enter Japan on a false passport to visit Tokyo Disneyland.
A woman from India who was cremated may have actually been alive when the procedure happened, local reports say.
Rachna Sisodia, a newly-married 24-year-old student, was initially declared dead of "cardiorespiratory arrest and acute respiratory distress syndrome on Feb. 25 at a hospital in northern India, The Times of India reported.
Her 23-year-old husband then drove her body to a funeral pyre and began the cremation. But police arrived and pulled her out, believing she was still alive. A postmortem report said ash was found in Sisodias lungs and windpipe.
The cause of death is shock due to being burnt alive, a local police spokesman told the Hindustan Times.
WOMAN BURNED ALIVE FOR WITCHCRAFT IN PERU JUNGLE, PROSECUTOR SAYS
This happens when someone is burnt alive, another police official told the newspaper. The particles go inside with the breath. If a person is dead, such particles cannot reach the lungs and the windpipe. So, the doctors concluded that the woman was burnt alive on the pyre.
The hospital in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday said it stood by its claims, as doctors stated that Sisodia died eight hours before being burned.
The husband also said he believes he is being framed by the wifes family, who disapproved of their marriage, the Hindustan Times reported.
Tesla Inc. is losing key personnel as it races to bring the Model 3 -- its most critical electric sedan yet -- to market later this year.
Chief Financial Officer Jason Wheeler's impending departure, announced just 15 months after he joined Tesla from Google, will be the latest in a raft of largely under-the-radar exits. Former executives, who spoke on the condition they not be identified, cited a range of reasons for their exits over the past year, including long hours in the rush to high-volume production, mission creep, and a tense culture that reflects their visionary but indefatigable chief executive officer, Elon Musk.
"Tesla looks like a company that is getting stretched to the limit," said Dave Sullivan, an analyst at industry researcher AutoPacific Inc. "The pressure of getting out the Model 3 is getting to everybody, from the people on the factory floor to the people at the top."
A Tesla spokesman in an emailed statement called attracting and retaining talent "one of our biggest assets" and said the company's attrition rate was below average among technology companies.
Long hours and job-hopping are routine at tech companies in California's Silicon Valley, and Palo Alto-based Tesla continues to make high-profile hires. Even so, analysts have flagged the departures as a risk to what will be Tesla's most challenging execution year in its short history. Musk plans to introduce the Model 3, is starting battery production at the Gigafactory and will integrate SolarCity, the recent acquisition that pushed Tesla's global workforce to roughly 30,000 people.
Like many companies, Tesla noted among risk factors in its just-filed annual report that it needs to attract and retain skilled workers. This year, however, it added a new phrase to the boilerplate, saying the efforts are needed "especially to support our expansion plans and ramp to high-volume manufacture of vehicles."
"Any time you're going through a big change it's important to have consistent management," Colin Langan, a UBS analyst who has a sell rating on the stock, said in an interview. "Jason Wheeler was a big hire and he's leaving, and there have been many other departures. If you're putting out aggressive targets and the people aren't there to meet them, it's a problem."
Wheeler, whose departure was first announced on last week's quarterly earnings call, said he wants to pursue work in public policy and praised what he called the "A-team" at Tesla. Deepak Ahuja, the CFO who led Tesla from the brink of bankruptcy through its 2010 initial public offering and retired in 2015, will return in April for a second tour of duty.
Bloomberg News compiled a list of more than two dozen management departures over the past year that include vice presidents of finance, communications, regulatory affairs, production, manufacturing, products and programs. Most recently Tesla has lost Mark Lipscomb, its vice president of human resources, and Satish Jeyachandran, the director of hardware engineering.
Tesla is generally opaque about its leadership beyond Musk and Chief Technical Officer J.B. Straubel, with no list of executives or vice presidents on its website, its investor relations page or in the annual report filed with the SEC this week.
Among Tesla's senior leadership team, three quarters have more than three years of tenure, 60 percent have been with the company at least six years and 20 percent have worked there a decade, according to its spokesman. Almost 60 percent of those who've had a leadership position at Tesla over its 14-year existence are still with the company, Tesla said.
None of the former managers Bloomberg News reached agreed to speak on the record.
Goldman Sachs this week downgraded Tesla to sell from neutral, with analyst David Tamberrino casting doubt on its ability to deliver the Model 3 on time. The Feb. 27 report contributed to the shares dropping about 11 percent from their 19-month closing high of $280.98 on Feb. 14. Of 23 analysts tracked by Bloomberg, eight have buy ratings on the shares, nine are neutral and six recommend selling.
Tesla's shares have jumped about 28 percent over the past year. Revenue surged 73 percent to more than $7 billion in 2016.
When Tesla announced in January it hired Chris Lattner from Apple as vice president of Autopilot software, it didn't mention that Sterling Anderson, the executive who ran the entire Autopilot program and reported directly to Musk, departed in late December. Tesla then sued Anderson, alleging he broke his confidentiality agreement with the company. Aurora Innovation, the company Anderson started with the former head of Google's self-driving project, said it would fight the "meritless" lawsuit.
Several former Tesla employees have landed at other auto companies, including Future Mobility Corp., Nio and Waymo, the self-driving car business spun off by Google parent Alphabet.
To be sure, Tesla's clean-energy mission and compelling products has attracted high-caliber people, regardless of its hard-driving reputation. The 45-year-old Musk has described himself as a "nano manager," has kept a sleeping bag at the company's car factory and works a second job running a rocket company.
About half of Musk's roughly $11.6 billion in estimated wealth comes from Tesla, where he takes no salary but is the largest shareholder with a 21 percent stake.
As of Dec. 31, Tesla had about 17,800 employees, not counting another 12,200 added with the $2 billion acquisition of SolarCity last year. Despite the growing headcount, more than 2,000 job postings at Tesla are listed on the recruiting website Taleo.
Tesla produced almost 84,000 vehicles in 2016 and plans to make half a million in 2018, then 1 million in 2020. It expects to pick locations for more gigafactories by the end of this year, and to introduce a semi truck and bus. Earlier this week it was named the highest-ranked domestic car brand by Consumer Reports magazine.
One worker at Tesla's Fremont, California, auto plant touched off a unionization effort last month, publishing a Medium post describing 60- to 70-hour work weeks, safety-related issues and mandatory overtime.
The unionization talk has drawn pushback from Musk. He promised employees free frozen yogurt stands, an electric pod-car roller coaster connecting parking lots to the factory and a "really amazing party once Model 3 reaches volume production later this year," according to an internal email Buzzfeed obtained last month.
Musk's moves to lighten the environment show the union threat has registered, AutoPacific's Sullivan said. "If Tesla has more than 2,000 job openings, does that mean that people are overloaded, or doubling up? You can't constantly ask for the impossible."
When a German Shepherd rescue organization posted Elmo's photo online last fall, it made no effort to mask the dog's problems. He wore a cone around his neck to prevent him from licking the large open sore on his hip. His fungus-ridden feet were swollen. His graying, 11-year-old face held a pathetic, ears-to-the-ground gaze.
Steve Frost, a retired fire captain in Northern California, said he saw the photo and thought Elmo "looked like hell." He immediately decided he wanted the dog.
Four months later, Frost sits by his fireplace every morning and evening and gives Elmo four pills for his various ailments, "like an old man." On Wednesday morning, he took Elmo in for prostate surgery. Frost, who had not owned a dog in several years, is now ushering one through its final years of life, which he says he figures will be "a lot better than living in a kennel."
Frost, 59, met Elmo through the Thulani Program, one of a growing number of animal organizations focusing on adopting out older dogs, or "senior dogs" that are typically 7 years or older. Their age makes them some of the hardest-to-place animals in a society that still adores romping puppies, although that is changing as books on elderly dogs and social media campaigns convince pet-seekers that the mature pooches often come with benefits, such as being house-trained, more sedate and less demanding of people with busy lifestyles.
But some of those adopters go further, selecting pets from programs for dogs in need of hospice care, or what amounts to assisted living for very ill or very old dogs. These programs usually commit to covering the cost of a dog's medical and dental care, which might otherwise be a major obstacle to finding them homes, said Lisa Lunghofer, executive director of the Maryland-based Grey Muzzle Organization. The donor-funded group gave $225,000 in grants last year to 38 senior dog programs nationwide, several of which now promote hospice adoptions.
Frost, who lives in Redding, California, and is a part-time professional pilot, said he knew he wasn't up to the task of raising a puppy. He also knew he wanted a German Shepherd. An Internet search led him to Thulani, and that led him to Elmo, one of the organization's hospice dogs.
Frost knows little about Elmo's past, other than that he was turned over to an animal shelter in Los Angeles and had clearly been neglected. His ears had mites, his innards had worms, his prostate had a tumor and he was puppy-like in one key way: At age 11, he wasn't house-trained. Now Elmo has two beds in Frost's home and a permanent place in the back seat of his four-door Ford F-150, and the two take what Frost called "a man shower" together every few days.
"This guy has just burrowed his way into my heart," Frost said.
Lunghofer stresses that most senior dogs do not require the kind of care Elmo does. The majority "just need a good home," she said, and many "regain their vitality and reward their families with years of unconditional love and devotion."
And more of them are finding those homes, she said. Grey Muzzle - which says it envisions "a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid" - recently surveyed its grantees, the majority of which said the situation for older dogs has improved in the past two years and that young people are more open to such adoptions. Nearly all said the main reason people adopt aging dogs is "altruism," although mellowness and potty skills were also cited.
"This is a great way to ease into dog ownership," said Erick Smith of Muttville Senior Dog Rescue in San Francisco, a Grey Muzzle grantee. "It's not this epic commitment that you're staring down."
David Writz, 34, said he's hoping his newly adopted 10-year-old black Lab mix, Dante - who is not a hospice case - will stick around for five years or so. Like Frost, Writz found his dog online after deciding he didn't have time for a puppy. When the two met in person at Bob's House for Dogs in Eleva, Wisconsin, Writz was smitten, despite the fact that Dante was about 20 pounds overweight. Then the shelter called and told Writz that the dog would be having emergency surgery to remove an eye with glaucoma. Did Writz still want him?
"I was like, 'Obviously,' " said Writz, who works in a payroll office. "I figured at the very least I'd just get him an eye patch."
Knowing that Dante won't be around for long "is the depressing aspect of it," said Writz, who regularly takes Dante to a local brewery, where the dog happily begs for pretzels. "But I figure he'll be happy the rest of his remaining years."
Russell Ulrey, a Muttville volunteer who helped start the shelter's hospice program, said he was initially worried that he wouldn't find takers. He was wrong. Last year, Muttville adopted out 85 hospice dogs, and Ulrey said demand is higher than supply.
Caring for a terminally ill dog is "a life-changing experience," said Ulrey, 41, but one he tells potential adopters to approach with flexibility. Ulrey, who has adopted several hospice dogs, said one lived 14 months until, one day, he charged up a hill to a favorite park and collapsed. A veterinarian euthanized him there. An Airedale mix named Ralph, in contrast, had multiple organ failure, rotten teeth and survived just a week.
"A dog like Ralph, we didn't take him out to the park. He didn't want to go," he said. "We made him cozy and made him feel really loved, maybe for the first time in his life."
These days, Ulrey and his partner, Marie Macaspac, are the parents of Chachito, a 20-pound mutt who qualified as a hospice dog because he is 16 years old, blind and deaf - exactly the kind of pet few adopters would be willing to take on. Chachito's regime involves homemade meals of brown rice pasta and chicken, supplements for his joints, arthritis medication and lots of hanging out at the couple's Fairfax, California, home.
"He has his route," Ulrey said. "He bonks into one wall and then knows he's going to turn right."
Farther north, in Redding, Elmo is recovering from his prostate surgery, which added hundreds of dollars to the $1,000 or more Frost has paid - with Thulani funds - to get the dog in shape. Soon, Frost said, he'll take Elmo for a ride in an airplane.
"The best you can do is make him have a great life, because his life up until this point has been hell," Frost said. As for the end? Frost said he doesn't focus on that. "If it didn't hurt, you've got to question the love that's involved."
To visit Berry Plain Farm is to step back in time. The well-preserved 18th century home and former plantation in the Dogue area of King George County was, in its heyday, a bustling village along the busy Rappahannock River.
Despite the Berry Plains subdivision of estate homes thats sprung up around the original property, Berry Plain itself remains 16 acres of early American history, with the oldest portion of the main house dating to about 1720.
William Berry and his bride, Margaret Doughty, received the land as part of a dowry in 1665. At the time the land was occupied by three tribes, including the Dogue Indians.
Fast forward to 1994, and the house was purchased by Joan and Thomas Poland. They continued the beginnings of a restoration initiated by previous owner Garry Hussion, the Fredericksburg orthodontist who used the property as a hunting lodge. Joan Poland recalled that unoccupied portions of the structure had been taken over by rodents and snakes. Broken windows had allowed the elements to infiltrate.
The Polands remarkable restoration has resulted in a home and property that is at once a museum and a comfortable family home. It is a classic Colonial with front portico, white clapboard siding, black shutters, red standing-seam metal roof and brick chimneys. Inside, there are 10-foot ceilings and beautifully refinished heart pine floors are original throughout, their differences owing to the periods in which they were milled.
Weve done nothing to disturb the original structure of the house, Joan Poland said during a tour of the property earlier this week. Now Im getting very emotional about leaving.
Thats because the Polands have decided to put the property on the market in hopes of finding a steward as committed to its historic authenticity as they have been. They have listed it with Janel OMalley and Robin Marine of Coldwell Banker Carriage House Realtors in Fredericksburg. The asking price is $699,000.
As it stands, the main house has 4,871 square feet of living space on three levels. There are four bedrooms, two full bathrooms and a half-bath. The half-bath is the only plumbing on the upper level, due partly to how the house was expanded and how it has evolved over nearly 300 years. And as Joan Poland noted, adding a full upstairs bathroom would take a toll on the homes historic integrityand would also be costly.
Nevertheless, work started prior to the Polands ownership unobtrusively added duct work to provide multi-zone central heating and air conditioning.
The house is located about 25 minutes from both downtown Fredericksburg and Dahlgren.
THE RESTORATION
The Polands proceeded with a restoration that involved every room in the house, and continued with the various surviving outbuildings that recall the propertys plantation history.
The original house was built in 1720, apparently by William Berrys grandson, Joseph. It was 1.5 stories plus a cellar and porch, and was the center portion of the house as it appears today. In 1778, another descendant, Thomas Berry, extended the house to the right of the main entry, in the process creating a full second story. That included raising the roof of the original structure, which had dormers.
Such additions became more popular and affordable as the taxing authority of the British over the American colonies diminished. Houses were taxed based on the number of rooms and closets, so the earliest structures had few rooms and virtually no closets.
The plantation continued to grow and by the time the property was sold out of the Berry family in 1845, it was well populated by slaves who were housed in several structures that no longer exist, and a couple that still do.
John and Virginia Dickinson bought the plantation in 1845 and built the two-story addition on the left end of the main house that provides more living space and a third upstairs bedroom. The sequence of the additions, Joan Poland explained, is shown in the location of the chimneys, built on the exterior early on and subsequently on the interior.
The Dickinsons also updated the homes interior in a Greek Revival style, reflected in much of the trim and the fireplace mantels with their Ionic-style columns. The couple is buried in a family plot on the property.
The property remained in the Dickinson family until 1959. In the latter stages of the familys ownership, the first inside kitchen was included in a main-level addition built in 1949 by Maxfield Brown, a carpentry contractor whose name will ring a bell with many in the Fredericksburg area.
The main level also has the formal living and dining rooms, a full bathroom and home office space.
In its early days the basement of the house was a rowdy tavern, according to Joan Polands research. With the river nearby and what is now State Route 3 a few miles north, travelers came to learn of the remote but much-appreciated stop. Having had their fills of food and drink, overnight guests would have slept several to a bed in a downstairs room.
Today the lower level is a comfortable space with its original exposed-beam ceilings. It has a family room, the fourth bedroom, the second full bathroom and a second, well-appointed kitchen.
THE OUTBUILDINGS
The collection of plantation outbuildings that remain help relate a story of antebellum America. They were generally built with materials from the farm and either hewn or milled on site. Included are:
a two-story slave quarters that dates to 1850 with two rooms over two rooms and four fireplaces feeding into a single flue.
a second, smaller surviving slave quarters that dates to the early 1800s.
an 1800 kitchen house that stands a short, but what would have been a fire-safe distance from the main house. It offers the best view of the original hand-hewn roofing shakes that were covered, thus protected, by the standing-seam metal roof.
a barn, equipment shed and paddock. There are no horse stalls, but there is probably room for four if a future owner wanted to add them.
In 2000, the Polands added an 1840s West Virginia miners cabin to the property and use it as a potting shed. Thomas Poland fashioned the interior space, which includes a loft. They also added the slate patio along the way.
The grounds are filled with mature boxwoods and pecan trees. Joan Poland learned that some original boxwoods were bought by John D. Rockefeller Jr. for use in his Colonial Williamsburg project. The Depression-era income was welcomed at plantations like Berry Plain and its contemporary, Marmion Plantation, in the Comorn area of King George.
Another historic nugget she learned in researching the Berry family is that another member, Benjamin Berry, founded the town of Berryville in Clarke County in 1798.
(Xinhua) 20:58, March 02, 2017
Guo Shuqing, chairman of China's banking regulator, specified the commission's major tasks for 2017, with controlling financial risks as the centerpiece.
Guo, three days on the job as chairman of China Banking Regulatory Commission (CBRC), said the commission will work with other financial authorities this year to tighten regulations, guard against financial risks and support supply-side structural reform.
Guo's remarks, at his first press conference after being named CBRC chairman, reinforced views that as the health of China's economy continued to improve, policy makers had more room to shift their focus to reforms and financial risk control.
To contain rising financial risks, CBRC is planning multiple measures, including regulating the shadow banking sector and a differentiated lending policy to curb property speculation.
Commercial banks, trusts, fund management firms, brokerages and insurers all have asset management businesses, but because they have different regulators and are subject to different rules, there has been some chaos, Guo said.
"We are working on a joint regulation to set basic standards that every institution can follow," he said.
In addition, the commission will tighten regulation of banks' wealth management products (WMPs), CBRC vice chairman Cao Yu said at the press conference.
China's fast-expanding wealth management industry is considered a source of financial risk, as off-balance-sheet WMPs channel deposits into risky investments without enough regulation.
According to Cao, the volume of WMPs totaled 30 trillion yuan (4.35 trillion U.S. dollars) as of the end of 2016.
Guo said CBRC will also pay close attention to property bubbles as 45 percent of the country's new loans went to mortgages last year.
Although the overall leverage level for the country's households was not high, its rapid increase in past years is worth monitoring, Guo said.
The country will continue to implement a differentiated housing loan policy, restricting lending used for property speculation while extending loans to support housing inventory reduction in smaller cities, said CBRC vice chairman Wang Zhaoxing.
Wang said the commission will help ensure stable and healthy development of the property market, preventing property bubbles and large market fluctuations.
CBRC will also focus on the handling of loss-making "zombie companies," exploring ways to tackle their debt problems in excess capacity cutting, Guo said.
According to Guo, more than 430 billion yuan in debt-to-equity swap deals had been signed as of early February.
Thursday's conference came after the country's securities and insurance regulators vowed to act hard against irregular market operations to rein in financial risks.
At the Central Economic Work Conference in December, the central leadership pledged to make a priority of preventing financial risks, saying that curbing asset bubbles would be more important in 2017.
In a further sign of the focus on risk prevention, China's central bank vowed to maintain a prudent and neutral monetary policy this year, after keeping prudent monetary policy for six consecutive years.
Guo, former governor of eastern Shandong Province, has considerable economic sector work experience. He used to work as chairman of China Securities Regulatory Commission and chairman of China Construction Bank, one of the nation's big four state-owned lenders.
(Xinhua) 08:18, March 03, 2017
China has expressed its determination to cooperate with the Namibian government on wildlife protection ahead of the World Wildlife Day which falls on March 3.
Speaking at a briefing at the Chinese Embassy in Namibia, Charge d'affaires Li Nan said that China will never give cover to lawless poachers and has zero tolerance for poachers.
Li noted that China also fully supports the Namibian government in amending environmental laws.
Namibian Deputy Minister of Environment and Tourism Tommy Nambahu also said that law enforcers need to be proactive in dealing with people who poach rhinos and elephants.
"It is all of us who are supposed to be ambassadors of preserving wildlife," said Nambahu.
China announced late last year a phased schedule to stop part of ivory processing and sales by March 31, 2017, and to eventually stop all ivory processing and sales by the end of 2017.
RICHMONDCassie Crouch of Bedford started hunting when she met the man whom she later would marry. It was one of our first dates, she said. In 2010, Crouch and her husband, Daniel, even celebrated their wedding anniversary by hunting wild hogs.
Crouch, who uses a variety of guns as well as a bow and arrow, likes the fact that female hunters soon may have a choice of colors for their hunting safety apparel: Hunters would be able to wear bright pink, instead of being limited to blaze orange, under a bill approved by the General Assembly during its recent session.
Another female hunterAmanda Bailey of Tazewell Countyalso is looking forward to the new law.
I would love having the option of wearing pink camouflage or orange, said Bailey, who hunts deer, elk, coyotes and bear, and uses a variety of firearms.
Crouch and Bailey are among a number of female hunters hoping Gov. Terry McAuliffe signs HB 1939 into law. If he does, the billwhich was approved unanimously by the House of Delegates and 355 by the Senatewill take effect July 1.
HB 1939, sponsored by Del. James Edmunds, RHalifax, states that every hunter and every person accompanying a hunter shall (i) wear a blaze orange or blaze pink hat or blaze orange or blaze pink upper body clothing, that is visible from 360 degrees or (ii) display at least 100 square inches of solid blaze orange or blaze pink material at shoulder level within body reach visible from 360 degrees.
Del. Kaye Kory, DFalls Church, voted for the bill.
My fellow House members who support the addition of blaze pink to be approved hunting clothing explained that blaze pink is more readily seen at a distance than the traditional hunters orange, Kory said.
Virginia is not the only state offering blaze pink as a substitute for blaze orange. Wisconsin was the first, and since then, New York, Colorado and Louisiana have followed suit.
Some believe that the color option will draw more women to hunting. About 13,000 women currently are registered to hunt in Virginia.
Hunter Tamala Doup, who lives in Midlothian, isnt a fan of pink camo.
I personally prefer the blaze orange from a safety aspect, she said. It seems much brighter and easily recognizable in the woods, especially in dense areas.
THE ceremonial first shovel of dirt will be turned at 11 a.m. Saturday near Stafford Courthouse, beginning construction of the countys long-anticipated Armed Services Memorial.
A veterans color guard as well as high school ROTC, choral and instrumental groups will take part in the ground-breaking of the memorial behind the Stafford Government Center. I hope the ceremony includes remarks from more veterans than posturing politicians who have never served, but Im not holding my breath.
With a revised cost of $838,000, the project still needs about $100,000 in donations. But the money is being well spent.
The edifice will consist of a main tribute wall with granite benches, a flagpole, a globe, and tribute lighting for nighttime safety. Stones for each of the nations conflicts will be encircled by bricks with names of veterans sponsored by citizens. The memorial will rightly remain nameless, honoring all veterans who have served, whether they live in Stafford or elsewhere. The site will cover an acre, allowing for future expansion.
Soon, our regionwhich is full of active-duty and retired veterans, including four veteran generations of my familywill have a fitting place of honor for quiet reflection and healing. The memorial will also show the communitys respect for those who serve and the families who support them.
Gov. Terry McAuliffe failed to show that same respect when he vetoed House Bill 1582, which would have allowed veterans and active-duty service members under age 21 to be eligible to apply for permits to carry concealed handguns in Virginia. The governor called the legislation an unwarranted expansion in the number of people allowed to carry handguns in the commonwealth. The current law prohibits anyone under the age of 21 to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer.
The connection between the Stafford memorial and the rejected concealed-carry legislation?
Dan Chichester, a Vietnam veteran and retired Stafford commonwealths attorney, cogently responded to the governors action with the question: How many under-21-year-olds are buried on Omaha Beach? Or consider the number of young service people whose names appear on that wall on the Mall in Washington that commemorates the 58,000 lost during the Vietnam War.
Yes, its a profound point by Chichester, chairman of the Armed Services Memorial Working Group. He has worked on the project with a Vietnam Marine hero, Lt. Gen. Ron Christmas, and county Supervisor Gary Snellings, an Air Force veteran.
During Vietnam, 35,198 of my brothers and sisters between the ages of 18 and 21 made up more than half of the 58,000 heroes found on the Vietnam Memorial.
Statistics from the Veterans Administration indicate about 112,500 Virginia veterans between the ages of 18 and 24 are presently serving. God forbid an attack from terrorists where our highly trained under-21 veterans are unable to carry a concealed handgun to deter our enemies because of McAuliffes veto.
Regardless of a veterans age, the panels and benches of the memorial will bear witness to those who served in various conflicts from the Revolutionary War to the present.
Men and women who have never served or seen a shot fired in anger often forget that millions who defended America were between the ages of 17 and 21.
Perhaps military and veterans issues would receive greater attention if more veterans served in public office. Theres a unique opportunity this fall when voters will elect new members of the House of Delegates in the 2nd and 28th districts to replace retiring Del. Mark Dudenhefer and House Speaker Bill Howell, both of Stafford.
Thanks to veterans, such as Chichester, Christmas and Snellings, Saturdays groundbreaking takes on a greater meaning for all who want to recognize service to our nation.
In the coming months, veterans, family members and average residents will be able to observe the memorials development. A dedication ceremony is anticipated on July 15.
Daniel P. Cortez of Stafford is a Northern Virginia writer and broadcaster active in veterans and political affairs. Email him at dpcortez1969@yahoo.com.
THE VIRGINIA Board of Medicine and the General Assembly have taken encouraging steps in the battle against an epidemic.
The state board recently approved emergency rules that will let it regulate the prescription of opioids for pain. Around the same time, the legislature passed four bills that activate needle-exchange programs, increase access to the overdose-reversal drug Naloxone, tighten opioid prescription policies and give aid to infants exposed to opioids in utero.
By now, most of us are painfully aware that opioids have nothing to do with Sheriff Taylors son on The Andy Griffith Show. Opioid overdose deaths have become a plague in Virginia and across the nation.
It is probable that more than 1,000 Virginians died of heroin and opioid overdose last year, compared with 811 in 2015 and 504 in 2009. According to a story in The Free LanceStar last fall, more people in the Fredericksburg area died from opiate overdoses in 2015 (75) than died in auto accidents (59). Last April, Spotsylvania County prosecutors threw out five criminal cases because each defendant had died of a drug overdose before the case got to court.
In addition to overdose deaths, the turn toward opioids led to more than a four-fold increase in hepatitis C cases in Virginia between 2010 and 2016. And the number of children exposed to drugs in utero is rising every year.
Under the new Board of Medicine rules, patients will have to undergo thorough physical examinations before being prescribed opioids. If the doctor determines that there is a history of substance abuse or other overdose risk factors, Naloxone must also be prescribed. Naloxone already was made available at all pharmacies last December without a prescription, at a cost of about $70.
Unfortunately, there always seems to be a new opportunity to abuse drugs. The board also is trying to get a grip on buprenorphine. Thats a drug designed to treat opioid addiction, but its now part of the problem. In Southwest Virginia, buprenorphine has become a very popular street drug. It is being prescribed at eight times the national average.
Before the opioid scourge that seemed to begin in Virginia around the turn of the century, there was crack cocaine. Some might have naively thought that the trend from crack to heroin and other opioids was a step in the right direction. Murder rates related to crack were soaring in the 1980s and 90s. Now, the murder rate in Virginia and elsewhere has fallen from the highs of those years (Richmonds murder rate last year was barely half what it was in 2003), but overdoses are soaring.
Treating addiction should be a top priority for communities here and elsewhere. Putting addicts in regional jails and prisons without treatment and recovery programs isnt likely to stem the problem. Been there, tried that.
Eventually (and sadly), something else will come along to replace opioids, and health officials, law enforcement agencies and legislators will try to stop another epidemic. In the meantime, though, we fight the battle in front of us with the tools we have.
Kudos to the Virginia Board of Medicine and the General Assembly for providing some useful tools.
Every trade has its master - in this case its billionaire - no matter how humble it is.
A self-made entrepreneur who once dashed between cities to deliver goods for clients has built an impressive courier empire and is now one of China's richest men.
Wang Wei, the boss of SF Express, has seen his personal worth rocketing to a whopping 22.5 billion (189.9 billion yuan) since his company went public last week.
Wang Wei is now the third richest man in China thanks to his company SF Express. He was pictured speaking during SF Express's listing ceremony on February 24
With 120,000 employees and 13,000 offices, SF Express is the biggest Chinese courier firm
Zep Lee (right), the International Business Unit CEO of SF and Ray Li (left), the International Business Unit CFO and CMO pose with SF courier envelope and courier box
This means the 46-year-old has become the third richest man in China, after property tycoon Wang Jianlin, worth 25.6 billion, and e-commerce mogul Jack Ma, worth 23.5 billion.
SF Express completed its back-door listing on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange on Friday.
The listing has made SF Express the biggest Chinese courier company by market capitalisation, surpassing its rival ZTO Express which went public in October on the New York Stock Exchange after raising 1.4 billion.
The move has also made Wang Wei, the chairman and founder of SF Express, a multi-billionaire.
The share price of SF Express was 5.93 (50.18 yuan) when the market opened at 9:30am on February 24.
Since then, the company has reached limit-up in five consecutive days. Its share price rose to 8.26 (70 yuan) when the market closed on Wednesday.
As a result, Wang Wei's assets have ballooned to 22.2 billion (188.6 billion yuan).
If SF Express's share price continues to grow at the current rate, Wang is expected to overtake Wang Jianlin and become the richest man in China.
Wang's fortune rose to 22.2 billion after SF Express went public on Shenzhen Stock Exchange
This means Wang, 46, is now the third richest man in China, after property tycoon Wang Jianlin (left) and e-commerce mogul Jack Ma (right)
SF Express's share price rose to 8.26 (70 yuan) when the market closed on Wednesday
Almost every resident in China has received or sent a SF Express package at one point in the past decade. Wang Wei's 120,000-strong delivery team zip around Chinese cities and towns, delivery anything from a million pound business contract to a bag of chicken feet.
The legend of the mega-rich man started 24 years ago when Wang Wei, a fabric dealer at the time, had trouble mailing his samples from Guangdong to neighbouring Hong Kong for his clients to see.
Two decades ago, the only way for Chinese people to send letters and parcels was to go through the state-owned postal system, which was slow and costly. Same-day courier was a concept unheard of even to the most ambitious businessmen.
Having seen an opportunity in the market, Wang, at the age of 22, reportedly borrowed 11,800 (10,000 yuan) from his father to start a courier company in the city of Shunde.
With six employees, SF Express helped factories in Guangdong mail business products to Hong Kong, which was still a British colony.
SF Express has its own airline which boasts a fleet of 38 Boeing aircraft. SF Airlines delivers 1,400 tonnes of goods every day
The company has over 120,000 employees, 13,000 offices, 150,000 vehicles and 36 planes
Wang was born in Shanghai to a Russian translator father and university teacher mother. He moved to Hong Kong at the age of seven and grew up there.
A low-profile man by nature, Wang rarely gives interviews.
In a 2011 interview with Guangzhou Daily, the man explained his motivation of building SF Express: 'Many Hong Kong people had factories in Guangdong at the time, and they had the demands (for courier service).
'So I thought: 'Why don't I start a courier company myself?' As a result, I founded SF in Shunde with some partners.'
He recalled that he had to deliver parcels himself in the early days of the company. '[We] carried our backpacks and our suitcases travelling between Hong Kong and Guangdong every day.'
By offering cheap and punctual service, SF Express quickly expanded.
By 1997, four years after SF Express's establishment, it had gained a monopoly on the courier market between Guangdong and Hong Kong, according to Shanghai-based financial media Yicai.com.
The year 1997 marked the hand-over of Hong Kong from British rulers to Chinese Communist Party. After that, the trade between two sides of the border grew dramatically, which propelled Wang's business to increase by leaps and bounds.
Meanwhile, Wang set up franchise branches throughout China.
Wang Wei started his delivery empire with a small company in Shenzhen with just six staff
Wang rang the bell last week on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange market as SF Express was listed
In 2003, Wang decided to speed up SF's delivery time by chartering cargo aeroplanes, something unprecedented to private courier companies in China.
Thanks to China's e-commerce boom since 2005, SF Express benefited from the huge market online shopping had created which saw billions of items needed to be delivered daily.
In 2009, chartered aeroplanes could no longer satisfy Wang's business appetite. He set up his own airline, SF Airlines, to dispatch packages.
To date, 1,400 tonnes of packages are sent by Wang's fleet of 38 Boeing aircraft on a daily basis, including five B767s, 16 B757s and 17 B737.
In explaining his road to wealth, the modest man said there is only one way to build a successful business, that is to be 'daring, creative and responsible'.
Having grown his fortune from 12,000 in debt to a staggering 22 billion, Wang has written an incredible rags-to-riches story - and it all started with his backpacks and suitcases.
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A press conference on the 5th session of the 12th CPPCC National Committee was held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on March 2. One journalist in attendance has drawn attention for using multi-channel live Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) equipment.
The so-called iron man equipment is a brand new media coverage tool from Guangming Online. It allows journalists to collect and publish information on site and offer live-streaming coverage. It also records and stores panoramic and virtual reality (VR) images.
The equipment is capable of simultaneously providing 3K frame, 4M streaming videos and VR signals to 15 different platforms. Viewers can watch HD VR live-streaming broadcasts with their naked eyes, accessing the footage through mobile phones. There is no need to install any special software. At the same time, unique multi-platform cloud technology makes it convenient for netizens to watch, share and participate in VR live-streaming interactions via popular social media platforms like WeChat.
Reports of detained Chinese lawyer Xie Yang having been tortured are groundless, the People's Procuratorate in Hunan Province confirmed with the Global Times.
Xie was put under compulsory custodial measures on July 11, 2015 for inciting subversion of State power and disrupting the court order. He was arrested on January 9, 2016.
The reports claiming that Xie was tortured during custody were fabricated by Jiang Tianyong, a former lawyer in Beijing, who was previously punished with "criminal compulsory measures" for illegally holding national secrets and subverting the State power, the Hunan procuratorate said.
The fabricated news catered to the "taste of Western media," in a bid to discredit the Chinese government and judicial authorities, Jiang told the Global Times.
Jiang said that he decided to pressure the police when Xie was put under custody and approached Xie's wife surnamed Chen to make up stories together. Xie must have been tortured as both his attorneys and family members were banned from visiting Xie, Jiang told Chen in September 2016.
According to the Law of Criminal Procedure, if a case involves State secrets, terrorism and huge bribes, lawyers need to obtain the approval from the investigative organs before meeting with suspects.
"It's legally possible that suspects who are involved in inciting subversion of State power are not allowed to be visited during investigation. But I didn't speak it out," Jiang noted.
He said that he started to instigate lawyers' family members to cause trouble and organize interviews with foreign media, when he felt he was in trouble after Zhou Shifeng, a lawyer formerly managing the Fengrui Law Firm, was arrested along with other lawyers.
"To make those reports more convincing, I told Chen how to write them: if some policemen smoke at nights, the story would be written like 'Xie being fumigated by police,'" Jiang told the Global Times.
Xie told the Global Times that his attorneys told him about foreign media reports fabricated by Jiang during their meeting in January.
Xie's co-inmate surnamed Ye also confirmed with the Global Times that he never heard Xie was tortured. "Instead, Xie always boasted that he had four dishes every day."
Xie Yang gives an interview.Provided To China Daily
Chinese authorities have refuted foreign media reports that a Chinese lawyer had been tortured in police detention, saying that these allegations were fabricated to tarnish China's image.
Xie Yang, a lawyer in Hunan province, was probed on suspicion of subversion and disrupting court order in July 2015. He then began living under surveillance and legal proceedings began in January, according to a report by Global Times on Wednesday.
However, since October, many foreign media organizations have reported that Xie was tortured by police in detention, including beatings and lengthy interrogations. But these allegations were made up by another Beijing lawyer, Jiang Tianyong, Global Times reported.
An independent investigation team set up by the Hunan Provincial People's Procuratorate also concluded that the allegations are fake, the report said.
Xie Yang, who is now awaiting trial, also said that he slept nine hours a day, and medical checks show that he is in good health.
Jiang, whose lawyer's license was revoked by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice in 2009, has been held under criminal detention since December on suspicion of subversion and illegally holding classified documents, the report said.
Jiang confessed that he deliberately fabricated the torture stories because he was unsatisfied with the Chinese government and wanted to change China's current political system.
"I'm willing to confess to my crime," he was quoted as saying.
Jiang said he's fully aware that such stories would cater to the taste of Western media, which is keen to report negative China stories, particularly relating to torture. By using the Western media, he could attack the Chinese government and tarnish the image of China's judicial organs, according to Global Times.
The report said Jiang managed to contact Xie's wife in September 2015 and won her trust to become Xie's attorney. Jiang then told her how to fabricate stories about Xie being tortured to exert pressure on Chinese authorities.
Jiang edited the piece and published it in a series, and also sent the stories to an activist overseas, as the man said he hoped to submit the piece to the European Commission of Human Rights, Jiang was quoted as saying.
"We've probed the police officers, people who stay together with Xie under residential surveillance and Xie himself, and concluded that the torture allegations are fake," an unnamed director of the investigation team was quoted as saying.
UK lamb will soon be back on dinner plates across Kuwait following a new deal worth up to 15m, Defra minister George Eustice has announced.
The re-opened trade route was confirmed during a visit to Kuwait by Mr Eustice to promote British food and strengthen the UKs trading relationship in what is a rapidly growing market.
Three major UK suppliers are already set to benefit from the five-year deal with shipments preparing to leave soon, said Defra.
See also: UK food and drink exports reach record levels
The UK exported food and drink worth 625m to the region last year, including 80m of cereal and 22m of cheese.
Kuwait had imposed a ban on UK lamb because of concerns about scrapie a degenerative disease that affects the nervous systems of sheep and goats.
However, the ban was lifted after UK government vets provided evidence to show the UK takes a world-leading approach to protecting animal health.
Reputation
Mr Eustice said: British lamb has a fantastic reputation around the world for its taste and quality and Im delighted that this export success will now be available for diners in Kuwait.
This move to re-open the market for UK-produced lamb is another example of how we are working hard to tap into new international markets and build stronger relationships with trading partners around the world.
Total lamb exports from the UK reached 330m in 2016, up from 300m the previous year.
The trade mission included a visit to Gulfood in Dubai, where 100 UK food and drink companies were exhibiting at what is the worlds largest annual trade show.
Jean-Pierre Garnier, head of export trade development at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), said: We have found for some time a high level of appetite from Kuwaiti importers and distributors for British lamb and are delighted to be able at last to supply this market.
We are committed to expanding sales of meat and dairy products in the Gulf region and support the governments export work.
Oh to be in England now that spring is here.
With the shooting season now a fading memory, the anguished echoes of Britains last expiring lapwings give way to the sound of a thousand diesel engines erupting into life, spewing their sullying noxious emissions into the clear spring air.
Britains arable farmers, having returned from a restorative week or three in the French Alps, are once again filling up their spray tanks in anticipation of this years campaign to systematically poison the nations food supply in pursuit of profit while, relentlessly destroying the countryside that they so clearly abhor.
See also: Farming needs bold renegades
Green and pleasant land
David Alvis is managing director of Yorkshire Dairy Goats
David Alvis is managing director of Yorkshire Dairy Goats
Meanwhile, their equally malign pastoral brethren prepare to unleash a new generation of that most virulent of environmental menaces, the sheep, on to the hills and pastures of not just Englands green and pleasant land, to scour the earth of any form of vegetation that might offer the merest soupcon of sustenance to the countrys oppressed wildlife.
And while their masters go about their ghastly business, the NFU those sycophantic vassals of this unholy alliance of rural miscreants hectors government on their behalf, their grubby hands outstretched, cynically proffering bottomless begging bowls in anticipation of ever more public money to sustain their apocalyptic practices.
Nonsense? Yes. Hyperbole? Certainly. But however ridiculously one-eyed a caricature of British farming this might seem, every slight contained within it has, in the past few months, been widely and openly promulgated in the mainstream and social media by prominent environmentalists.
As the world seemingly resigns itself to the post-truth era, upping the ante in terms of environmental doomsaying is fast becoming de rigueur for an environmental lobby emboldened by the prospect of some kind of a post-Brexit ecological enlightenment.
Nothing epitomises this more than the hysteria surrounding the as yet undetermined fate of glyphosate.
Last year I, naively as it turns out, suggested the arguments for banning this most benign of agrochemicals had finally been put to bed by the World Health Organization and European Food Safety Authority.
Both had categorically stated that, based on the overwhelming balance of evidence, there was no risk posed to human health from any realistic level of exposure to the chemical or its residues in food, water or the wider environment.
How wrong I was. Now, it seems, outdated or discredited science published in low-impact, open-access journals with questionable peer-review processes assumes a whole new level of credibility when presented via social media by celebrity environmentalists or badger-cuddling broadcasters.
For me, the nadir of this ludicrous saga was the recent tweeting by the Soil Association of an anti-glyphosate petition link, accompanied by a photo of a field of wheat, glowing iridescent yellowy-green in the immediate aftermath of what appeared to be an application of Roundup.
Challenged
When challenged over the picture by a farmer who was a former photographer and who considered the colours to be so totally out of line with reality, the SAs policy director, in a rather mealy-mouthed way, said that the picture was not fake but conceded the colour is odd but definitely not doctored. The tweet remains online, unaltered.
I would normally have laughed this off as merely nonsense from an organisation that was championing alternative facts long before they became fashionable. But when, only days later, I received a consumer enquiry from my milk buyer regarding the extent of glyphosate use in the production of feed crops used on the farm, it dawned on me that we are potentially sleepwalking into a disaster here.
The scale and extent of public misinformation in this debate is staggering, yet it continues largely unchallenged on a daily basis.
Forget post-CAP subsidies and free-trade deals if were not careful well have nothing left to trade apart from lapwings before long.
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The vast market for co-working spaces in China has welcomed a new, highly competent candidate in WeWork, a leading co-working space company from the U.S. WeWork is striding confidently into China, equipped with unique services and an ambition to serve more people.
WeWork was founded in New York City in 2010 by Adam Neumann and Miguel McKelvey, with the intention of creating a workspace centered on the idea of community. It now serves over 90,000 members in more than 120 locations across 30 cities and 12 countries. The company provides both working and living spaces, in addition to community services. Chinas capital city is just its latest stop.
(WeWork location on Weihai Lu in Shanghai Photo/Courtesy of WeWork)
Connecting China
In March 2016, the American company received an investment of over $400 million from Chinese investors led by Legend Holdings and Hony Capital a move that was widely seen as the official starting point of WeWorks China strategy. Four months later, the first Chinese WeWork location was opened in Shanghai.
Less than a year later, the company is ready to open two new locations in Beijing, putting its total number of spaces in China at four. In addition, four more locations in Beijing and Shanghai are to be announced in 2017.
Nevertheless, McKelvey denied that the companys expansion into China was contingent on its multimillion-dollar investment.
We were interested in China before we had investment from HONY capital. It was our plan to come here whether we had it or not But obviously having them as a partner facilitates our entry. We still have our ability to follow our business plan, the WeWork co-founder and chief creative officer said in an exclusive interview with Peoples Daily Online.
While he stressed that WeWork remains independent from investors influence, McKelvey did give credit to the Chinese investors for helping his team to understand the Chinese market and make business connections.
He said the investors have been helpful in the sense of [knowing] someone who can give you feedback on decision-making and informal conversation about whats happening and how to navigate certain situations. When we have meetings with government officials, theyve been there and taken part. That gives us a little credibility, to have a local partner.
Chinese investors also helped to assemble an investment round and facilitated WeWorks partnership with Sino-Ocean Group (SOG), which McKelvey called a great partner. He also said the company is looking to expand the partnership and pursue additional partnerships with real estate groups in China.
Although WeWork gave no specific number for the companys 2017 expansion goals, McKelvey pointed out that the company expects to double in size in the new year, and we see a lot of that growth coming in China.
We approach the market in a very humble way, feeling that we know how to do it and we will work with people to learn as much as we can about the local market, he added.
(WeWork location on Weihai Lu in Shanghai Photo/Courtesy of WeWork)
Booming industry
The Chinese market is very big and interesting in terms of how quickly business evolves within it, but also in terms of entrepreneurship, McKelvey noted.
Business models are indeed changing rapidly, and co-working spaces are on the rise in China, especially as the nation calls for expanded entrepreneurship. In addition to early birds such as UrWork, Nashwork and SOHO 3Q, which were all built by real estate giants, Chinas major internet companies, including Alibaba and Tencent, are also reportedly considering an expansion into the co-working industry.
McKelvey declined to comment on those potential competitors in China. Rather, he said the market still has a lot of room for different companies to try to support the new way of working more flexible, more interesting, more engaged and more connected to neighbors, friends and businesses.
We believe that work is changing so quickly what people want from their work life is changing much more quickly than any individual company could support. We think that as we grow, as other companies grow, they are inviting more businesses to think about the new way working space operates, he stated.
(A ping-pong table on WeWork location at Weihai Lu in Shanghai Photo/Courtesy of WeWork)
Unique offer
During the interview, McKelvey repeatedly expressed his confidence in the companys role in the Chinese market, despite the fact that several U.S. companies such as Amazon and Uber encountered serious obstacles while competing with Chinese counterparts.
We have great confidence in the China market and the future of Chinas economy. Certainly we are only touching a small part of business at this point. We believe there is so much room for us to grow, no matter how the market conditions are. So we have nothing but confidence. We believe we offer something unique in the market. We are super excited and we will continue to push forward with the same excitement and speed, McKelvey said, firmly pushing back against concerns over WeWorks future battles.
Over 50 percent of companies under the WeWork network engage in collaboration with other WeWork companies a unique and valuable service that is an undeniable advantage compared to domestic Chinese brands.
It is almost routine for co-working spaces to provide coffee or tea in addition to the rented space. Some also attract renters by offering free education for entrepreneurs.
But that is not enough for WeWork, according to Fred Lu Shucheng, the general manager of WeWork China. Lu noted that the company comes up with various ways to strengthen ties within the network, including offline interests groups and an exclusive global WeWork member network. Through the network, which connects thousands of companies, WeWork members are able to build both personal and business ties in an economical way that allows both sides to feel trusted.
Developing glocally across the world, the company also boasts specialized services that vary from country to country and custom location designs for each city. WeWork designers try to meet even the tiniest requests, from unconventional working habits to coffee consumption. WeWork also tries to localize their designs so that each building is instantly recognizable as a WeWork facility, yet also entirely unique, according to Lu.
Lu offered the example of seat arrangement. In the U.S. or other international markets, people are less sensitive [when it comes to] whether people work next to each other or facing each other or back to back. But for us, we have strong cultural awareness that we want to work face to face, he said, also noting that WeWork China furnishes its locations with espresso machines, while U.S. locations generally offer drip coffee.
Future of working space
Nearly a decade has passed since WeWorks launch, and already there is a clear ripple effect in co-working. As a co-founder, McKelvey said that he and Neumann imagine their company 100 years in the future, and believe that WeWork will remain competitive.
What we see is people are becoming more mobile, defining work in a more diverse way. But at the same time, you need places for human connection. There is potential for more decentralized organization for people to only come together at specific times, rather than [how it is done in] large corporate offices. I think especially as people become more interested in moving to cities, the efficiency must be greater. The solution must be more flexible and responsive to human connection, the CCO said..
(Miguel McKelvey, co-founder and chief creative officer of WeWork Photo/Courtesy of WeWork)
Readers, we need your help to prove a merry Christmas for victims of domestic violence.
In celebration of International Womens Day, we want to emphasize that girls are not for groping and other forms of abuse. Just like boys, they deserve kindness, respect, and an education, so they can bring their gifts and talents into the world. Educated girls are key to ending poverty worldwide.
I met Thyda in 2006, when she was in 10th grade and trying hard to stay in school in rural Cambodia. Her father died from an illness when she was young and her mother struggled to support the family. Every day, Thyda got up at 4 a.m. to start her chores. She fed the chickens, hauled water from the community well, cooked rice, and did her homework.
Each morning, Thydas mother, who was illiterate, ground rice into flour and made waffles to sell for their daily income. Without an education, she can only do manual labor jobs. When Thydas mother was sick and could not work, they did not eat that day. Women make up two-thirds of the worlds illiterate adults.
Thydas familys struggle is typical of the majority of families in developing countries. They barely get by. In contrast to people like myself, who have the luxury of deciding if we want dessert, these families often eat just one meal a day. They want their children to quit school and work to help the family survive.
Thydas older sister dropped out of primary school. By age 16 she was married and having children. This is common in developing countries. Every day, 37,000 girls under the age of 15 are having their arranged wedding ceremony. When girls are in school, they are much less likely to marry young.
In Cambodia, like most countries, boys have an advantage over girls. They are valued more and given more privileges. Families are more likely to send their boys to school than their girls. Girls are often expected to work as hard as servants and are seen as property, much like slaves.
The documentary film "Girl Rising" tells the stories of nine girls from around the world who struggled against the odds to pursue their dream of an education.
Millions of girls around the world face barriers to education that boys do not, such as early marriage, gender-based violence, domestic slavery, and sex trafficking. Supporting girls education means not only a better life for girls, but a safer, healthier and more prosperous world for all.
Some bright children are self-motivated. Thyda was determined to stay in school. She worked odd jobs so she could buy a school uniform, a bicycle, and pay teachers fees. In Cambodia, less than 20 percent of the students finish high school.
Thyda was on the verge of dropping out of school when Friendship with Cambodia started sponsoring her. She was able to graduate from high school and attend university, majoring in accounting. After graduation, she started working for an organization that helps the poor in Cambodia. According to the World Bank, education for girls is the best investment for ending poverty.
Friendship with Cambodia and the Corvallis Multicultural Literacy Center will be showing the documentary film "Girl Rising" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 8 at the First Presbyterian Church, 114 SW Eighth St. in Corvallis. We ask for a $10 donation to support girls education. This inspiring film is about the strength of the human spirit and the power of education to change the world.
In his Feb. 28 letter to the editor, Chris Foulke notes a troubling increase in autism. His concern for our children is laudable. But hes wrong about the cause: it isnt vaccines. We have clear evidence that vaccines are definitely not the cause. Autisms cause remains unknown.
The National Academies of Science show no vaccine-autism link; Institute of Medicine analyses in 2004 and 2011 of more than 1,000 studies show no vaccine-autism link; and a study of half a million children in Denmark (which does not mandate vaccines) shows equal autism rates in vaccinated and unvaccinated children.
Mr. Foulke supports a new federal government vaccine oversight agency with Robert Kennedy, Jr. as its director. The problem is that Mr. Kennedy has no expertise in vaccine science.
And we dont need it. Did you know that the U.S. already has at least two agencies overseeing vaccines?
One is the FDAs immunization safety program. Another is the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventions Advisory Committee for Immunization Practice. Pharmaceutical representatives may attend the quarterly meeting, like members of the general public, but only to observe. The 15 members of the committee all come from medical schools, research institutions, and state public health departments scientific experts. None is a politician.
Do we really need another federal agency? I hope instead that the new administration ensures that the existing, well-functioning agencies remain robust, nonpolitical, and well-funded.
Sandra J. Bean
Corvallis (Feb. 3)
The writer earned a doctorate in public health from Oregon State University.
A photo of Haruki Murakami's latest novel, "Killing Commendatore," composed of two volumes.
Japanese contemporary best-selling author Haruki Murakami has earned plaudits from many Chinese citizens after releasing his latest novel, "Killing Commendatore," which acknowledges the large-scale loss of civilian life during the Nanjing Massacre.
During the massacre, Japanese troops committed mass murder and rape in Nanjing, then the capital of the Republic of China, in December 1937. To the fury of many in China and around the world, some conservative Japanese politicians and historians now deny that the massacre took place, or they put the death toll at a much lower number.
In the novel, which was published in Japan on Feb. 24, Murakami writes: ...for the exact number of civilian victims [of the Nanjing Massacre], debates existed among historians. But generally, it is not in dispute that the majority of residents were embroiled and killed in the war.
Haruki Murakami
He adds that some put the Chinese death toll at 400,000, while others say it was 100,000. "But what is the difference? It was still a killing spree. he writes in the book.
The remarks have electrified Chinese netizens, leading some web users to hail Murakami as aconscientious and upright writer of integrity.
Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, the official hall memorializing those killed in the massacre, piled praises on the book on Weibo, a Twitter-like social networking site. It added thataccording to the verdict of the Tribunal for Tani in 1947, there were more than 300,000 victims in total. Eighty years have passed, yet many Japanese still eschew the appropriate reflection on and repentance of the country's militarism.
During a 2015 interview with Kyodo News, Murakami said Japan should repeatedly apologize for the atrocity to China, the Korean Peninsula and other countries involved in the conflict.
This is a community calendar. To accommodate demand for the print edition, we ask that items be brief and include time, date, place, address, admission cost and a contact number for publication. Inclusion of items is at the discretion of the newspaper. Further information is available at 541-758-9524 or jane.stoltz@lee.net.
Assistance
SATURDAY
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide tax preparation assistance. Individual tax returns prepared during tax season at various locations: Albany, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, appointments: 541-917-7760; Corvallis and Philomath, Mondays through Saturdays, appointments, 541-602-5829. Free, in-person tax service is open to anyone of any age, especially those 50 or over or who can't afford paid tax preparation. Information: 888-227-7669 or www.aarp.org/taxaide.
Stone Soup Breakfast, 10 to 11 a.m., McLean Hall, First Christian Church, 602 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis. A free meal to anyone in need.
Classes
SATURDAY
"Bonsai: Repotting for Beginners," 11 a.m., Garland Nursery, 5470 NE Highway 20, Corvallis. A Japanese maple, a pot, soil, instruction and guidance included. Cost: $45. Registration: 541-753-6601.
Community yoga, 5 p.m., Live Well Studio, 971 NW Spruce Ave., Corvallis. Apprentice teachers. Cost: $7. Information: 541-224-6566 or www.livewellstudio.com.
Events
SATURDAY
Brunch, 9 to 11:30 a.m., Albany American Legion Hall, 1215 Pacific Blvd. SE. Cost depends on purchase.
Linn County Flea Market, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Santiam Building, Linn County Fair & Expo Center, 3700 Knox Butte Road E., Albany. More than 90 vendors selling antiques, collectibles and more. Early shoppers, 7:30 to 9 a.m., $6; regular admission, $2; children 12 and under admitted free; free parking. Information: www.linncountyfleamarket.com.
League of Women Voters of Corvallis Legislative Town Hall, 10 a.m., main meeting room, Corvallis-Benton County Public Library, 645 NW Monroe Ave. Meet state legislators, hear about their work, ask questions and have conversations. Participants: Sen. Sara Gelser, Rep. Dan Rayfield, Rep. Mike Nearman.
"Saturday Stories," 10 a.m., youth activity room, Corvallis-Benton County Public Library, 645 NW Monroe Ave. Family story time for all ages. Information: 541-766-6794.
Dedication ceremony, 1 p.m., Philomath Community Library, 1050 Applegate St. The flagpole, children's area and meeting will be dedicated to donors. The event will include speakers, a flag dedication ceremony and treats. Dedications will be made to Floyd E. Burton, Beverly Cleary and Starker Forests.
Genealogical library open, 1 to 3:30 p.m., annex, Benton County Historical Museum, 1101 Main St., Philomath.
Dinner, 5 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 584, 1469 Timber St. SE, Albany. Information: 541-928-7925.
Bingo, 6 p.m., American Legion Post 184, 339 N. Main St., Brownsville. Cost: $1 a game.
Karaoke, 7:30 p.m., Lebanon Moose Lodge, 4070 S. Santiam Highway. Open to the public, all ages.
Fundraisers
SATURDAY
Beards and Brews Festival, 2 to 5 p.m., Calapooia Brewing, 140 Hill St. NE, Albany. Free admission; $20 to enter ones beard in the contest; votes, $1 and $5, with ballot-box stuffing encouraged; vote tickets double as raffle tickets. All proceeds go to the Santiam/Scio Youth Services Team.
Government
SATURDAY
Benton County Board of Commissioners breakfast meeting with state legislators, 8 a.m., McGrath's Fish House, 350 NW Circle Blvd., Corvallis.
Government Comment Corner, 10 a.m., lobby, Corvallis-Benton County Public Library, 645 NW Monroe Ave. Ward 5 Councilor Charlyn Ellis will be on hand.
Health
SATURDAY
Free breast and cervical cancer screenings, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Samaritan Obstetrics & Gynecology, 3640 NW Samaritan Drive, Suite 161, Corvallis. For women ages 21 to 65 who are uninsured or under-insured. Registration and transportation arrangements: 541-768-6053 or 541-768-5611.
Organizations
SATURDAY
The Mid-Valley Bicycle Club offers rides open to the adult public on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Information: www.mvbc.com.
Mid-Valley Singles, Inc., 9 a.m., Elmer's Restaurant, 1115 NW Ninth St., Corvallis. Breakfast. RSVP: 541-929-3422.
Santiam Spokes, 9 a.m., Lebanon. Bicycle ride. Information: www.santiamspokes.org.
Committees of Correspondence for Democracy and Socialism, 10 a.m., 101 NW 23rd St., Corvallis.
Corvallis Bicycle Collective, noon to 6 p.m., 707 NW 11th St. Fix up your bicycle with free use of tools and advice; affordable used bicycles and parts. Information: 541-224-6885 or www.corvallisbikes.org.
Albany Magic Club, 1 p.m., upstairs conference room, Albany Public Library, 2450 14th Ave. SE.
Linn Genealogical Society, 1:15 p.m., Albany Public Library, 2450 14th Ave. SE. Genealogical resource panel including Pat Munk of the Lebanon Genealogical Society, Jerry Duncan of the Scio Library and Museum, Carla Healey of the Sweet Home Genealogical Society, and a representative of Albany's new Family History Center. Information: 541-791-1618 or www.lgsoregon.org.
Corvallis Community Drum Circle, 7 p.m., 101 NW 23rd St., Corvallis. Open to all ages and skills levels. Instruments provided, or bring your own. Information: drumcircleconnection@gmail.com.
Plan ahead
Sustainability Town Hall 2017, 7 p.m. Thursday, CH2M Hill Alumni Center, 725 SW 26th St., Corvallis. Samantha Chisholm Hatfield of the Siletz Confederated Tribes will present "Traditional Ecological Knowledge: Groundwork for a Sustainable Community." Community scrapbook, activities to determine the direction of the community's sustainability efforts in the coming year. Registration: www.sustainablecorvallis.org, by Sunday.
Support groups
SATURDAY
Al-Anon, 10 a.m., Room 219, First United Methodist Church, 1165 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis. Support for families and friends of alcoholics. Message center: 541-967-6262.
Alcoholics Anonymous:
10 a.m., noon, Room 11, First Christian Church, 602 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis.
5:30 p.m., pastoral office, library, St. Marys Catholic Church, 501 NW 25th St., Corvallis.
6:30 p.m., upstairs classroom, west-side door, Monroe United Methodist Church, 648 Orchard St., Monroe.
8 p.m., conference room, Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, 3600 NW Samaritan Drive, Corvallis.
Information (24 hours): 541-967-4252 or www.aa-oregon.org.
Narcotics Anonymous, 6 p.m., Room 11, First Christian Church, 602 SW Madison Ave., Corvallis. Information (24 hours): 877-233-4287 or www.lblna.org.
[File photo]
A Chinese envoy has come into focus after castigating Western countries rebuke of Chinas stance on the crisis in Syria. Many Chinese people praised the envoy for showcasing the charisma of a true diplomat.
Liu Jieyi, Chinas permanent representative to the UN, delivered a seven-minute speech denouncing the accusations by Western countries that China has been irresponsible in its global security measures, after the country vetoed new UN sanctions against Syria on Feb. 28.
Reiterating Chinas stance on chemical weapons during the meeting, Liu said China used to be a victim of such weapons, and therefore has more say than other countries when it comes to condemning the use of chemical weapons.
Disagreeing with Liu, representatives from Western countries including the U.S. and U.K. minced no words in criticizing the outrageous, indefensible choice that China made, with new American envoy Nikki Haley stating that [China and Russia] turned away from defenseless people when Assads forces dropped their poisonous gas.
In response to such groundless accusations, Liu said its irresponsible to distort and attack other countries solemn positions, and that such accusations emphasized the "unjustifiable grounds and ulterior motives of the countries making the accusations.
As we can all recall, so-called weapons of mass destruction (WMD ) were used as an excuse by certain countries to launch wars in the past, which brought suffering to people in the Middle East. Today, countries in the Middle East are still beset by the legacies of such wars. Lessons from history must be learned; it is only in this way that mistakes can be avoided, said Liu.
Lius speech quickly went viral on Chinese social media, with many netizens lauding his words and praising his delivery.
Western countries should take much of the responsibility for Syrias chaos. Chinas voice should be heard by the world, and Lius speech is impartial and enlightening, showing Chinas wish for a peaceful Syria, one netizen wrote on Sina Weibo.
Chinese mainstream media outlets and scholars have also paid close attention to Lius speech. According to a Reference News report, Lius unprecedentedly long speech is quite rare, and was partially improvised.
Lius most recent speech was much longer than his previous ones. It shows that China has its own stance on the Syria issue, and that we are not just following Russia, said Zheng Qirong, an expert in UN Studies at China Foreign Affairs University.
To deliver a speech is not only a chance for Chinese diplomats to showcase their charisma, but also is a test of their flexibility and resourcefulness, Zheng added.
DT annual press conference : Brexit vote burdens Deutsche Telekom
CEO of Deutsche Telekom, Tim Hottges. Foto: Benjamin Westhoff
Bonn US business is booming, but depreciation in the UK as a result of the Brexit vote last year is significantly impacting Deutsche Telekoms balance sheet. The annual press conference of DT also took on a political accent.
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Depreciation in the UK as a result of the Brexit has burdened the balance sheet of Deutsche Telekom. As Deutsche Telekom reported yesterday at the annual press conference in Bonn, the full-year net profit declined 18 per cent to 2.7 billion euros. It holds a 12 per cent stake in the British BT Group, whose shares took a big hit after the UKs vote to leave the European Union last year. As well, there was a decline in the value of the British pound by almost ten percent.
In operational terms, the result was positive. Business in the US market was very strong, with sales rising by nearly six percent to 73.1 billion euros across the Group. The U.S. market remains a growth driver with T-Mobile having added 8 million customers and becoming the third largest provider. Telekom CEO Tim Hottges spoke yesterday of a "growth year 2016". The Group had reached or even exceeded forecasts for 2016. For the current year, Hottges expects a "continuation of the successful operating business." In both Europe and the US, the number of mobile customers rose.
The current political landscape means that no financial press conference can take place without a cautious glance in that direction, especially for a firm which builds its business on creating networks across borders. In a company produced film aimed at promoting a united and open Europe, populist politicians like Nigel Farage and Marine LePen could be seen on the screen. Hottges commented, We will not leave Europe to the populists. He further emphasized, We do not represent a divided Europe.
Body recovered in Unkel : Dead woman found in Rhine
Unkel A womans body was found at the edge of the Rhine River in Unkel on Thursday morning. Police said there were no indications of foul play.
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Police were called to Unkel for a recovery operation on Thursday morning. At the edge of the Rhine River, a body was found at around 11 am. Police had to retrieve the body from the river; it was reported to be a female. Further details are not yet known.
According to police, there is no information about the womans identity. It was also unclear as to how long the body had been in the river before it was found.
Chinese investor : Frankfurt-Hahn Airport is sold
Berlin Frankfurt-Hahn Airport is home to low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, Wizzair and SunExpress. The airport, which was previously an American military airfield, has been sold to a Chinese investor.
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The Frankfurt-Hahn Airport has been sold to Chinese investor HNA Group. The Interior Ministry in Mainz said a contract was signed on Wednesday evening, giving HNA 82.5 percent of the airport.
Located on the outskirts of Frankfurt, the airport previously belonged to the states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Hessen. Hessen still owns 17.5 percent of the airport and has been in talks to sell its share but so far no deal has been made. No information was available about the sales price to HNA Group.
Police search successful : Man who attacked girl in Tannenbusch has been identified
Bonn Police are investigating a case of attempted sexual abuse of an eight-year-old girl in Tannenbusch. A man has been identified in the case following a search.
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An eight-year-old girl was followed and attacked by the suspect in Tannenbusch on Thursday afternoon. Police are investigating the incident as suspected sexual abuse of a child. The man followed the girl from a bus stop on Riesengebirgstrae at around 1:50 pm to her address on the same street. According to police, he followed her into the building and onto the elevator.
On the elevator, he grabbed the girl and struck her with the flat of his hand in her face. After that, according to police, he pulled a cloth bag over her head and grabbed her by the neck. The child vigorously defended herself, and the perpetrator left her and fled.
The 11 March 2011 Tohoku-Oki earthquake was the largest and most destructive in the history of Japan. Japanese researchersand their Norwegian partnersare hard at work trying to understand just what made it so devastating.
The massive earthquake that rocked Japan on 11 March 2011 killed more than 20,000 people, making it one of the most deadly natural disasters in the countrys history. Virtually all of the victims drowned in a tsunami that in places was more than 30 metres high.
The tsunami also crippled the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, causing meltdowns in three of the plants six reactors and releasing record amounts of radiation to the ocean. The reactors were so unstable at one point that the former Prime Minister, Naoto Kan, later admitted he considered evacuating 50 million people from the greater Tokyo region. Eventually, 160,000 people had to leave their homes because of radiation.
This national disaster, Japans largest-ever earthquake, was a call to action for Japanese earth scientists. Their mission: to understand exactly what happened to make this quake so destructive. For this, they turned to JAMSTEC, the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology to probe the secrets in the 7000-metre deep Japan Trench, the epicentre of the temblor.
In the five years since the disaster, researchers have found intriguing clues as to what made the quake so dangerous. Norwegian petroleum expertise from working on the Norwegian Continental Shelf is now helping to uncover new details as scientists continue to try to understand what factors contribute to making an earthquake in this region really big. In doing so, they hope to be able to better predict the magnitude and location of future quakes and tsunamis.
A jumble of tectonic plates
Japan sits in what may be one of the most dangerous places possible when it comes to earthquakes. The northern part of the country lies on a piece of the North American plate, whereas the southern part of the country sits on the Eurasian plate. In the north, the Pacific plate is sliding underneath the North American plate, while to the south, the Eurasian plate is riding over the Philippine Sea plate. When one plate moves in relation to another, the movement can trigger an earthquake and tsunami.
The complex jumble of tectonic plates explains why roughly 1,500 earthquakes rattle the country every year, and why it is home to 40 active volcanoes10 per cent of the worlds total.
Given that Japan experiences so many earthquakes, the quake that shook the country on the afternoon of 11 March wasnt completely unexpected. In fact, researchers predicted that the region would see an earthquake of 7.5 magnitude or more over the next 30 years.
Earthquakes are routine enough in Japan that the country has strict building codes to prevent damage. Most large buildings wriggle and sway with the shaking of the earthone man in Tokyo told the BBC that the movements in his workplace skyscraper during the 2011 quake were so strong he felt seasickand even the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant was protected by 10-metre-high seawall.
Yet some combination of factors made the Tohoku-Oki earthquake bigger and with a more deadly tsunami than scientists expected. But what?
This is what we want to understandand to mitigate, says Shinichi Kuramoto, Director General for the Center for Deep Earth Exploration at JAMSTEC. Why do these big earthquakes occur?
A really big slip
JAMSTEC researchers mobilized almost immediately after the disaster, and sent their 106-metre-long research vessel RV Kairei to the quakes epicentre just a few days after it occurred.
For a little over two weeks, the ship cruised over the Japan Trench off the coast of Honshu. The purpose was to create a bathymetric picture of the sea bottom and to collect reflection seismic data, which allows researchers to peer into the sediments and rocks underneath the seafloor.
A subsequent cruise by JAMSTECs RV Kaiyo 7-8 months after the earthquake collected additional high-resolution reflection seismic images in the area. Fortunately, the researchers also had data from a similar study that had been done in 1999 in the same region.
The data showed them that the landward seafloor in the trench area slipped as much as 50 metres horizontally, said Yasuyuki Nakamura, Deputy Group leader in JAMSTECs Center for Earthquake and Tsunami Structural Seismology Group.
This was a big slip in the trench axis area, he said. For comparison, the 1995 Kobe earthquake, which killed more than 6000 people and was a magnitude 7.3, had an average slip of 2 metres.
Another magnitude 8 earthquake in 1946 in the Nankai area in southern Japan that destroyed 36,000 homes had a maximum slip of 10 metres, Nakamura said.
So you can see that 50 metres is a very huge slip, he said. That in itself partly explains why the tsunami wave was so big, he said.
Creating images using sound waves
When Martin Landr, a geophysicist at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), read about the Japanese earthquake and learned that his Japanese counterparts had collected seismic data from both before and after the quake, he thought he might be able to offer some help.
For more than 20 years, Landr has worked with interpreting and visualizing seismic data. Oil companies and geophysicists routinely use this approach to collect information about the geology under the seafloor. Landr has studied everything from putting seismic data to work to discover new undersea oil reservoirs to visualizing what happens to CO2 injected into an undersea reservoir, as is being done now in the Sleipner Field in the North Sea.
It works like this: a ship sails along a straight line for 100 kilometres or more, and uses airguns to send an acoustic signal every 50 metres while the ship sails along. The ship also tows a long cable behind it to record the acoustic signals that are reflected back by the sediments and bedrock under the sea floor. Simply stated, harder materials reflect signals back more quickly than softer materials.
Geologists can create a two-dimensional image, a cross section of the geology under the sea floor, by towing one long cable behind a ship. A three-dimensional image can be created by towing a number of cables with sensors on them and essentially combining a series of two-dimensional images into a three-dimensional one.
A very special type of seismic data, however, is called 4-D, where the fourth dimension is time. Here, geophysicists can combine 2-D images from different time periods, or 3-D images from different time periods to see how an area has changed over time. It can be highly complex, especially if different systems have been used to collect the seismic data from the two different time periods. But 4-D seismic analysis is Landrs special expertise.
From North Sea oil reservoirs to the Japan Trench
Landr contacted Shuichi Kodaira, director of JAMSTECs Center for Earthquake and Tsunami, and said that he wanted to see if some of the techniques that had been used for petroleum-related purposes could be used to understand stress changes related to earthquakes. Kodaira agreed.
Then it was just a matter of getting the data and reprocessing it, Landr said, to make the two different time periods as comparable as possible.
We could then estimate movements and changes caused by the earthquake at the seabed and below the seabed, Landr said.
After nearly a year of working remotely together on the data, Landr and his Norwegian colleagues flew to Japan in November 2016 to meet their Japanese counterparts for the first time. Theyre now in the process of jointly writing a scientific paper for publication, so he is reluctant to describe their new findings in detail before they are published.
The ultimate goal here is to understand what happened during the earthquake in as detailed a way as possible. The big picture is more or less the same, Landr said. It is more like we are looking at minor details that might be important using a technique that has been used in the oil industry for many years. Maybe we will see some details that havent been seen before.
An early warning system
Landr is also interested in a system that JAMSTEC has installed in the ocean off the southern part of the country, called the Dense Oceanfloor Network system for Earthquakes and Tsunamis, more commonly known as DONET.
The DONET system (of which there are now two) is a series of linked pressure sensors installed on the ocean floor in the Nankai Trough, an area that has been hit by repeated dangerous earthquakes, JAMSTECs Nakamura said.
The Nankai Trough is located where the Philippine Sea plate is sliding under the Eurasian plate at a rate of about 4 cm per year. In general, there have been large earthquakes along the trough every 100 to 150 years.
DONET 1 also includes a series of seismometers, tilt meters and strain indicators that were installed in a pit 980 metres below a known earthquake centre in the Nankai Trough. The sensors from the pit and from the seafloor above are all linked in a network of cables that sends real-time observations to monitoring stations and to local governments and businesses.
Essentially, if there is movement big enough to cause an earthquake and tsunami, the sensors will report it. JAMSTEC researchers have conducted studies that show that the DONET network could detect a coming tsunami as much as 10 to 15 minutes earlier than land-based detection stations along the coast. Those extra minutes could mean saving thousands of lives.
One of the main purposes here is to provide a tsunami early warning system, Nakamura said. Weve been collaborating with local governments to establish this.
Other applications a possibility
Landr says he thinks that using techniques from 4-D seismic imaging could also be used with the data collected by all the DONET sensors.
The DONET approach, or some variation of it, might also be useful in the future as Norway and other countries explore using oil reservoirs to store CO2. One of the biggest concerns about storing CO2 in subsea reservoirs is monitoring the storage area to make certain the CO2 stays in place. A DONET-style monitoring system might be of interest here, Landr said.
Landr also says he thinks that techniques from 4-D seismic imaging could be used with the data collected by all the DONET sensors to obtain a better understanding of how the area is changing over time.
DONET is passive data, listening to the rock, Landr said. But here you could also use some of the same techniques as for 4-D analysis to learn more.
Note: The above post is reprinted from materials provided by Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
A recent notice from the Ministry of Education mandates that homeschooling is not a valid replacement for compulsory education. This is the first time the authority has explicitly called for an end to homeschooling, according to the Worker's Daily.
As of February 2016, about 6,000 students were being homeschooled in China, and about 50,000 parents planned to try the alternative education method, according to Wang Jiajia, an associate professor at Jiangsu University. Wang estimates that the number of children being homeschooled increased by about 30 percent between 2013 and 2017.
Homeschooling instruction is often carried out by parents or tutors. It takes a variety of forms, including small, traditional private schools and and mini schools.
According to a survey by the 21st Century Education Research Institute, 80 percent of parents of homeschooled children have received higher education. Most live in urban areas, with 58.21 percent residing in major cities. Twenty percent have lived overseas for at least six months, and over 50 percent have teaching experience.
The parents do not agree with schools' ideas about education, and they also oppose their teaching methods. These are two main reasons why parents choose to homeschool their children, Wang explained.
Of the parents surveyed, 87.31 percent said they felt satisfied with the results of homeschooling and 80.6 percent thought homeschooled children's social networking abilities were "very good" or "fairly good."
At present, there is no final conclusion on the legitimacy of homeschooling. The Compulsory Education Law stipulates that children above the age of 6 receive an education in schools. Article 14 of the law further stipulates that those who implement the compulsory education independently should seek approval from the nearest county education department. Thus, the provision still leaves some room for homeschooling.
It is worth noting that the ministrys notice does not reference any legal means of stopping homeschooling in the case of parents who insist on it.
Article
Protecting the worlds oceans an important goal of Germanys climate diplomacy
The worlds oceans are vital to our survival. They regulate the global climate and are a source of food and income for billions of people. Only a very small part of the seas enjoys legal protection, however. Our diplomats are working in New York right now to change this state of affairs.
According to Fu Yong, head of China National Administration of GNSS and Applications, the BeiDou system has been working well since it was put into operation, and its civil user base now exceeds 10 million. In addition, BeiDou has finalized an inspection of 18,000 kilometers of gas pipe in Beijing, as Beijing Gas Group plans to replace its former GPS system with the BeiDou system.
Data shows that the overall function of the system meets design requirements. Key indices such as accuracy of positioning and timing services are better than design criteria demand.
The BeiDou system was independently established and is now independently operated by China. It provides positioning, navigation and timing services with high accuracy for users around the world. The first BeiDou satellite was launched in 2000 as a Chinese alternative to satellite navigation systems developed by other countries. In December 2012, it began providing positioning, navigation, timing and short message services to China and some parts of the Asia Pacific.
Amazon Web Services outage was caused by a typo News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu It was a typo that caused the issue!
The Amazon Web Services went down a few days back causing a number of websites such as Netflix, Quora, Spotify, Pinterest, Trello, Slack, Buzzfeed, etc go down. Even the website that is meant to check if the other sites are working fine was down due to the disruption in the service.
Following the outage, Amazon investigated the matter to find the root cause. Amazon didn't stop there but revealed the reason officially bringing clarity in the matter. As per Amazon, a single typo (a wrong command) executed by an employee is the prime cause of the cascading effect that took a number of websites down.
It was an employee of the Amazon S3 (Simple Storage Service) team, who caused the outage. While conducting a routine debugging operation, the employee meant to take down a few servers those handled the S3 billion process but a large number of servers were removed due to a typo one of the inputs in the given command.
Amazon Web Services outage creates chaos among internet users
While the four hours of disruption is said to have caused an estimated loss of $160 million, Amazon has announced that it is working on steps that will make sure a similar disruption does not happen again in future. The company has implemented automatic checks, where the capacity will be removed slowly. This way, any incorrect command will not disrupt the services in the future.
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Google Assistant is now coming to Android Marshmallow and Nougat devices News oi -Samden Sherpa Now all Android users can do a host of activities with Google Assistant.
Google earlier had suggested that it is going to make its Google Assistant the AI-powered virtual assistant available on a wider range of devices. And the recently launched smartphones such as LG G6, Moto G5, and Moto G5 Plus is said to come preloaded with the digital assistant.
However, according to a recent report apart from the pixel devices Android Nougat and Android Marshmallow devices will also be receiving the feature as the official Google Assistant rollout has just begun.
New Google Allo update brings GIF search, animated emoji, and one tap access to Assistant
The search giant has announced on its blog that Google Assistant will be made available automatically on "eligible Android devices" starting Thursday. As such, Google Assistant will be made available first for users in the US followed by Australia, Canada, and the UK.
Google has further stated that it is "rolling out the Android 7.0 Nougat and Android 6.0 Marshmallow devices with Google Play Services. To get started, users will need to "touch and hold the Home button."
Google 'Playables' will let you play paid games before buying them
Elaborating more about its plans Google has said, "Our goal is to make the Assistant available anywhere you need it. It came to Android Wear 2.0-via new smartwatches-just a few weeks ago and, as we previewed in January, the Assistant is also coming to TVs and cars. With this update, hundreds of millions of Android users will now be able to try out the Google Assistant."
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Chinas Domestic Violence Law should be revised to provide better protection for victims, and a more efficient mechanism should be established to ensure its implementation, an NPC deputy recently proposed.
Though Chinas first domestic violence law was passed swiftly, it still has many flaws, Sun Xiaomei, a national legislator and professor at China Womens University, told the Beijing News. Sun will submit her 10th proposal on the Domestic Violence Law to the National People's Congress.
Based on data collected by Sun from rural areas in China, the rate of domestic violence has not changed since the law was first issued in 2016. Though the situation is not promising, Sun noted that public awareness of the law is at a new high, and many victims have been able to use the law to protect their rights.
According to Sun, more malicious acts ought to fall into the category of domestic violence, including sexual violence and economic control. Sun also believes the law should cover more potential victims, expanding to including former spouses and gay couples that live together.
The law's lax implementation is also a major concern for Sun. Current law stipulates that public security organs should issue a written warning in cases of "light" domestic violence. Such warnings are meant to include the identity of the perpetrator and a prohibition against additional such acts in the future, However, according to Sun, many police stations have never issued even one written warning since the law took effect.
Core government sectors concerned with domestic violence protection, such as police and courts, should establish guidance on the Domestic Violence Laws implementation, while the current law should be revised to include a clearer definition of domestic violence and a procedure for the collection of evidence, suggested Sun.
Nokia 3310 (2017) to be made in India, confirm HMD News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu Nokia 3310 to be made in India.
Earlier this week, we had reported that the Nokia Android phones unveiled a few days back - Nokia 3, 5 and 6 will be made in India and released in the second quarter of the year. Now, it looks like the company is planning to make even the Nokia 3310 (2017) locally in the country.
HMD Mobile India's Vice President, Ajey Mehta says that they will attempt to make sure that all their products are made in India. HMD Global has teamed up with Foxconn to make the Nokia phones in India. The company is also evaluating the chances of developing a 4G feature phone that would make sense as Reliance Jio will be bringing such a phone in the near future at a disruptive price tag.
Nokia 3310 relaunch; this is how the internet reacts
Besides making the new Nokia 3310 in the country, HMD Global plans to release all the recent Nokia phone launches sometime in the second quarter in India, as claimed earlier. Mehta further added that India is a significant market for the company. The Nokia phones will be made available via both online and offline in the country. For now, Nokia has nearly 80,000 retailers, and they are in plans to increase the number in the future.
In an attempt to focus more on the after-sales service, the company plans to have a direct presence in a minimum of 250 towns in the country within the launch of the phones in the second quarter.
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Sony Xperia XZ Premium named the Best new smartphone at MWC 2017 News oi -Shilpa Achievement of Sony at MWC.
The GSMA hosts the Mobile World Congress every year in Barcelona and as a part it, they award the best tech companies in their annual Global Mobile Awards or GloMo event. This year, they awarded statuettes to over 40 winners from various categories.
Samsung grabbing the "Best Smartphone of 2016" prize is not a surprise to anyone because it was the best-selling handset from the last year. But now we learn that Sony has also won the "Best new smartphone" award for its Xperia XZ Premium.
Also Read: Jolla and Sony join hands to roll out Sailfish OS to Xperia phones
It can be considered as an achievement by the Japanese company because they have not changed its design and also were forced to disable few features in some markets. Sony also unveiled three other devices at MWC 2017 - Xperia XZs, Xperia XA1 and Xperia XA1 Ultra.
The winning device is the second 4K smartphone with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 and has an updated 19 MP camera in it. Though it is packed with such a powerful processor, it will not be available in the market until late spring.
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Xiaomi Mi 6 release date pegged for April 16, Specs and price are out News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu Xiaomi Mi 6 price and specs are out.
Lately, Xiaomi has been pretty busy with the launch of its Surge S1 processor, and Mi 5C and Redmi 4X smartphones. Still, the company is in the headlines for the launch of its upcoming flagship phone - Mi 6.
Now, it appears like we have a date for the Mi 6 launch from an undisclosed source. The source has revealed that the Xiaomi flagship could be released on April 16 and will be the first Chinese phone to sport the latest Snapdragon 835 SoC.
Besides the presence of the Snapdragon 835 processor, the Xiaomi will not under-clock the SoC, which is great news. The Xiaomi fans are well aware of the fact that the company releases one flagship variant featuring an under-clocked processor. So, this is definitely great news for the Mi fans.
Xiaomi Mi 6 live photos with Mi Mix like display leaked
The Xiaomi Mi 6 is also claimed to flaunt a 5.2-inch LCD display with 2.5D glass as well as a ceramic body. The camera will be pretty similar to the one we recently saw on the Sony Xperia XZ premium.
Interestingly, apart from the launch date and key specs, we also have details about the pricing of the upcoming Mi 6. The smartphone is said to be priced starting 1999 yuan (approx. Rs. 19,000) and go up to 2500 yuan (approx. Rs. 25,000) for the ceramic body variant. The latter is likely to arrive with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage capacity, while the regular one might arrive in two options - 4GB RAM and 32GB storage, and 4GB RAM and 64GB storage.
Source
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Apple to create more domestic jobs, pressure from Trump administration News oi -GizBot Bureau Apple, may give into pressure from Trump administration, to create more domestic jobs.
Apple may soon set-up manufacturing plant in the US, in an attempt to create more domestic jobs, this move is in light with the pressure from the Trump administration. The company is believed to expand its $50 billion US manufacturing and supplier base as stated in a media report.
"We love this country. We will continue to look for ways to expand and help in any way that we can," Cook was quoted as saying at the company's annual meeting in Cupertino.
Apple CEO, Tim Cook went on to further state that though the final assembly of the iPhones is done in China, the semiconductors, glass screens and adhesives for the device are made in the US.
He also pointed out that though only one-thirds of the company revenues comes from the US, it still maintains two-thirds of its employees in the US.
SEE ALSO: Apple's next generation iPhones will likely feature USB Type-C port
The company is still looking at options to expand its operations in the US and feels that Apple could only exist in the US. Though all of this may be due to the pressure from the Trump administration it will be interesting to see how things pan out.
Apple had recently shown interest and even confirmed to start manufacturing its iPhones in Bangalore, India. Though it is rather early to know for sure what Apple has planned we could very well see Apple operating from both India and the US owing to the relationship between the two nations. None-the-less we will keep you posted on the latest updates as and when we get them.
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What will you get in Jio prepaid plan
The Prime Programme starts at Rs. 19 in which users will get one day validity with 200 MB 4G data, while the non-prime members will get 100MB 4G data for one day; Rs 49 prime member will get 600MB 4G data for three days, and non-prime member will receive 300MB for three days; at Rs. 96 users will get 7GB data and FUP is 1GB per day.
Non-Prime members get the same thing, except the FUP, which is 0.6GB per day (FUP is basically a cap on bandwidth, known as Fair Use Policy.); Rs. 149 subscribers will get unlimited voice calls and 2GB 4G data without any daily cap for a month, the non-prime members will get only 1GB for 28 days; Rs 303 plan prime members will get unlimited data, while 28GB available at 4G speeds.
FUP in this is 1GB per day. Non-Prime members users will get 2.5GB data with no FUP for 28 days and for Rs. 499 subscribers will get 60GB 4G data with a 2GB daily data cap and unlimited voice calls, while the non-prime members will get 5GB data for 28 days.
The company is also offering long duration plans, which start from Rs. 999 with a validity of 60 days and data allowance of 60GB, non-prime members will get 12.5GB data for 30 days; Rs 1,999 for 90 days with 125GB data, non-Prime members will get access to 30GB data for 30 days; at Rs 4,999 users will get 350GB data for 180 days, non-Prime members will be getting 100GB data, which will be valid for 30 days, and Rs. 9,999 for 360 days with 750GB and non-prime members will get access to a total of 200GB data, valid for 30 days.
What will you get in Jio postpaid plan?
At Rs. 303 plan, Prime members are getting unlimited data, where 28GB is available at 4G speeds. FUP is 1GB per day. Non-Prime members will be getting 2.5GB data on the same plan. At Rs. 499 plan, the prime members will get unlimited data, where 56GB is available at 4G speeds.
SEE ALSO: Airtel rated as India's fastest network by Ookla
FUP remains at 2GB per day. While at the same cost, non-Prime members will receive 5GB data without FUP. At Rs 999, the prime members will get unlimited data, where 60GB is available at 4G speeds where non-Prime members will only get 12.5GB data without FUP.
The company has also launched Booster packs for users in case their data limit ends suddenly. Using these, they can add data and continue using the web.
What competitors are offering
Airtel
Airtel is providing 30GB of 4G data at Rs. 1,495 for three months, and postpaid users are getting 3 GB data per month with all MyPlan Infinity Plans. At Rs. 549, Infinity plan offers unlimited calling and also 6GB data per month including a 3GB free data plan. To make it further competitive, Airtel has also announced its plan for acquiring Telenor.
Vodafone
Vodafone, on the other hand, has recently announced its merger plans with Aditya Birla Group. Regarding its tariff plans, it is offering 6GB data per month at Rs. 349, with unlimited voice calls.
The company has also introduced new offerings, where users will get 4GB data with a validity of 28 days. Additionally, Vodafone will also give 22GB of data when you recharge your number with Rs. 999.
Idea
Aditya Birla Group-led Idea Cellular is offering 1GB data per month for Rs. 348, with unlimited calling feature and if someone wants to recharge with this pack on a new 4G-handset, then the person will get additional 3GB data for 28 days.
Click Here for New Smartphones Best Online Deals
Overall, dont let the bhoot mislead you, nothing bhootiya about this story. Had the makers tried to push the envelope, the idea could have been outstanding for a bhootiya comedy.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Counter-ISIS Strikes in Syria, Iraq
From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 2, 2017 U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
U.S. Central Command continues to work with partner nations to conduct targeted airstrikes in Iraq and Syria as part of the comprehensive strategy to degrade and defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or ISIS.
Officials reported details of the latest strikes, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.
Strikes in Syria
Coalition military forces conducted five strikes consisting of five engagements in Syria:
-- Near Dayr Az Zawr, a strike destroyed a wellhead and a pumpjack.
-- Near Raqqa, four strikes destroyed an ISIS training camp, an ISIS-held building, a weapons storage facility and a vehicle bomb factory.
Strikes in Iraq
Coalition military forces conducted five strikes consisting of 62 engagements in Iraq, coordinated with and in support of Iraq's government:
-- Near Mosul, four strikes engaged four ISIS tactical units; destroyed 19 fighting positions, four supply caches, four mortar systems, four vehicle bombs, three tunnels, two recoilless rifles, two vehicle bomb factories, an ISIS-held building, a command-and-control node and a barge; damaged 10 supply routes and two tunnels; and suppressed 14 mortar teams and three ISIS tactical units.
-- Near Tal Afar, a strike destroyed a tactical vehicle.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve
These strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to destroy ISIS in Iraq and Syria. The destruction of ISIS targets in Iraq and Syria also further limits the group's ability to project terror and conduct external operations throughout the region and the rest of the world, task force officials said.
The list above contains all strikes conducted by fighter, attack, bomber, rotary-wing or remotely piloted aircraft; rocket-propelled artillery; and some ground-based tactical artillery when fired on planned targets, officials noted.
Ground-based artillery fired in counterfire or in fire support to maneuver roles is not classified as a strike, they added. A strike, as defined by the coalition, refers to one or more kinetic engagements that occur in roughly the same geographic location to produce a single or cumulative effect. For example, task force officials explained, a single aircraft delivering a single weapon against a lone ISIS vehicle is one strike, but so is multiple aircraft delivering dozens of weapons against a group of ISIS-held buildings and weapon systems in a compound, having the cumulative effect of making that facility harder or impossible to use. Strike assessments are based on initial reports and may be refined, officials said.
The task force does not report the number or type of aircraft employed in a strike, the number of munitions dropped in each strike, or the number of individual munition impact points against a target.
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U.S. Department of Defense
Press Operations
News Release
No. NR-083-17 March 02, 2017
Statement by Pentagon Spokesman Capt. Jeff Davis on U.S. Strikes against AQAP in Yemen
U.S. forces conducted a series of precision strikes in Yemen against al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP, in the early morning of March 2 (Yemen time). More than 20 strikes targeted AQAP militants, equipment and infrastructure in the Yemeni governorates of Abyan, Al Bayda and Shabwah.
The strikes were conducted in partnership with the Government of Yemen, and were coordinated with President Hadi. The Government of Yemen is a valuable counter-terrorism partner, and we support its efforts to bring stability to the region by fighting known terrorist organizations like AQAP.
The strikes will degrade the AQAP's ability to coordinate external terror attacks and limit their ability to use territory seized from the legitimate government of Yemen as a safe space for terror plotting. Targets of the strikes included militants, equipment, infrastructure, heavy weapons systems and fighting positions.
AQAP has taken advantage of ungoverned spaces in Yemen to plot, direct, and inspire terror attacks against the United States and our allies. U.S. forces will continue to work with the Government of Yemen to defeat AQAP and deny it the ability to operate in Yemen.
http://www.defense.gov/News/News-Releases/News-Release-View/Article/1100244/
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(file photo)
China's National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC) issued a new guideline on March 2 allowing patients in poor rural areas to receive medical treatment without paying the treatment fees upfront. Provincial health and family planning administrative departments are required to finish the official plan by the end of March, and the program will be implemented before the end of April.
According to the program's description, only poor, rural patients who have basic medical insurance can take advantage of the favorable policy. Patients who do utilize the policy will receive their medical treatment in designated medical institutions around the county.
Hospitalized patients must meet strict requirements. They have to provide documents including a health insurance card, valid ID card and proof of their economic status before being admitted to any hospital. Patients can receive treatment after signing a "pay after treatment" agreement.
The program also offers flexible payment methods. When a patient is discharged from the hospital, the designated medical institution immediately subtracts the portion of the treatment fee covered by insurance from the patient's bill. The patient is only expected to pay for individual expenses, and the medical institution then returns the patient's documents in a timely manner. For those who cannot pay their treatment fees all at once, there is an option to pay in installments.
Another facet of the program requires the establishment of a county-level payment system for impoverished patients, which is intended to gradually promote the development of provincial and cross-provincial settlement systems.
The program will punish malicious debtors through a credit system. A blacklist of offenders will be maintained, and designated medical institutions have the right to stop favorable policy coverage for people on the list. They can also report the offenders to medical insurance departments.
Secretary General: Switzerland is a valued NATO partner
NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation
01 Mar. 2017 - 02 Mar. 2017
Last updated: 02 Mar. 2017 18:37
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stressed the value of the Alliance's partnership with Switzerland during a visit to Bern and Geneva on Wednesday and Thursday (1-2 March 2017).
Today, the Secretary General met with the Federal Councillor and Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Didier Burkhalter, and the Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport, Mr. Guy Parmelin, in Bern. The leaders discussed current security challenges and opportunities for closer cooperation between the Alliance and Switzerland, including on cyber defence. The Secretary General welcomed Switzerland's plans to become a contributing partner to NATO's Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence in Tallinn.
Mr. Stoltenberg also praised Switzerland's contributions to peace and security. Switzerland has helped many NATO partners in building democratic defence institutions and provides support for NATO's peace-keeping efforts in Kosovo. Within NATO, Switzerland has helped to shape thinking and policies on human security issues, including to promote the role of women in peace and security.
The Secretary General outlined the importance of projecting stability beyond NATO's borders during a Townhall address at the Maison de la Paix in Geneva. Speaking to an audience of students, diplomats and journalists, Mr Stoltenberg stressed that training local forces and building resilient defence institutions in partner countries is key in the fight against terrorism.
At the end of his visit, Mr. Stoltenberg visited the Headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Geneva, marking the first visit by a NATO Secretary General to its headquarters. He met with ICRC President Peter Maurer for talks on humanitarian issues and cooperation between NATO and the ICRC. Mr. Stoltenberg thanked the ICRC for its advice on the development of NATO's Policy for the Protection of Civilians, adopted by Allied leaders at the Warsaw Summit in July 2016. He also underscored that NATO's commitment to International Humanitarian Law is fundamental.
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Santa Fe Visits Yokosuka during Indo-Asia-Pacific Deployment
Navy News Service
Story Number: NNS170302-02
Release Date: 3/2/2017 8:14:00 AM
By Lt. j.g. Tajudeen Ismail, USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) Public Affairs
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka March 2 for a visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific patrol.
The visit strengthens the already positive alliance between the U.S. and Japan through the crew's interaction with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. It also demonstrates the U.S. Navy's commitment to regional stability and maritime security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
Santa Fe is optimistic about the opportunity for a port visit in Yokosuka and looks forward to strengthening the ties shared with close allies.
"Our crew has had the opportunity to meet our partner Japanese submarine crews that visit Pearl Harbor and are excited to visit their homeport," said Cmdr. Jacob A. Foret, commanding officer.
This submarine is capable of executing anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
"The crew has worked tirelessly at training and preparing for the western Pacific deployment and are eager to explore the many sights and sounds of Yokosuka," said Master Chief Electronics Technician (Navigation) Jorge Perez, chief of the boat. "The crew has many first-timers who have heard so many interesting stories about Japan and look forward to experiencing the Japanese culture firsthand during this port visit. They joined the Navy to see the world, and this is their first foreign port visit."
Many crew members are excited to experience the rich culture of Japan.
Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6,000 tons when submerged, Santa Fe is among the world's stealthiest platforms.
Santa Fe is homeported in Pearl Harbor and is assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron 7. It is named after the great city of Santa Fe, New Mexico.
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Bataan Amphibious Ready Group Deploys
Navy News Service
Story Number: NNS170302-19
Release Date: 3/2/2017 2:24:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Zak Grabill, USS Bataan (LHD 5) Public Affairs
NORFOLK (NNS) -- More than 4,000 Sailors and Marines from the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24 MEU) departed from Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 25 and March 1.
The deployment is part of a regular rotation of forces to support maritime security operations, provide crisis response capability, and increase theater security cooperation while providing a forward naval presence in Europe and the Middle East.
The Bataan ARG is commanded by Capt. Larry LeGree, commodore, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8 and is comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), amphibious transport dock USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), Tactical Air Control Squadron 21, and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, homeported at Naval Station Norfolk; amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), Assault Craft Unit 4 detachments, and Beach Master Unit 2, homeported at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia Beach.
Mesa Verde and Carter Hall departed Feb. 25, and the rest of the Bataan ARG departed March 1.
"After months of training, this Navy and Marine Corps team have come together and are a very capable amphibious force," said LeGree. "It's all about teamwork and maximizing the tremendous capabilities of our forces to provide the fleet commanders with scalable, ready, and resilient forces."
The 24 MEU consists of more than 2,200 Marines, which also includes a Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 24 and the MEU command element. The 24 MEU spent 26 weeks training in mission areas such as security operations, humanitarian relief, and amphibious raids.
The Bataan ARG/MEU team will provide combatant commanders a versatile sea-based force which can be tailored to a variety of missions, including quick reaction crisis response options on sea, shore, and land in support of the nation's maritime strategy.
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Israeli fighter jets, tanks carry out airstrikes, artillery shelling against Gaza Strip
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 6:59PM
Warplanes and tanks belonging to Israeli regime forces have carried out airstrikes and artillery shelling on the Gaza Strip in yet another act of aggression against the besieged Palestinian coastal enclave.
The Israeli military said in a statement on Thursday that aircraft and a tank targeted two posts belonging to the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas.
A source with Hamas confirmed that the Israeli aerial attacks had hit a lookout post in northern Gaza.
The attacks came after the Israeli army claimed that "shots were fired at (Israeli) forces carrying out routine activities" near Gaza.
Also on Monday, at least four people sustained injuries after Israeli military aircraft carried out a string of airstrikes on areas in the Gaza Strip.
The airstrikes came shortly after the Israeli military claimed that a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip had hit an open area in southern occupied territories, but caused no injuries or damage.
Last month, the Gaza-based al-Mezan Center for Human Rights expressed concern about Israeli airstrikes, saying the rise in the attacks could be leading up to a wide-scale military offensive.
It called on the international community to "act promptly against Israel's military escalation."
The Israeli military frequently targets the Gaza Strip, with civilians being the main victims of such attacks.
Israel has also launched several wars on the Palestinian sliver, the last of which began in early July 2014. The 50-day military aggression, which ended on August 26, 2014, killed nearly 2,200 Palestinians, including 577 children. Over 11,100 others -- including 3,374 children, 2,088 women and 410 elderly people -- were also wounded in the war.
The Gaza Strip has been under an Israeli siege since June 2007. The blockade has caused a decline in living standards as well as unprecedented unemployment and poverty.
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UN anti-drug body slams Philippines for 'extrajudicial' killings
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 6:26PM
The UN anti-drug body has censured the Philippines for the rampant use of extrajudicial killings in its war on narcotics.
The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) said in its annual report published on Thursday that killing people over their involvement in drug trade and use without providing them with judicial procedures was against international regulations on fighting drugs.
The report said "extrajudicial action, purportedly taken in pursuit of drug control objectives, is fundamentally contrary to the provisions and objectives" of international drug conventions.
It strongly condemned the practice as a "serious violation of human rights" and an "affront to the most basic standards of human dignity."
The report adds to increasing criticisms about an eight-month anti-drug campaign by the government of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Estimates about the ruthless campaign suggest that more than 6,500 people have been killed since Duterte took office in June.
Officials say more than 2,500 were killed while resisting police arrest while some 4,000 others were killed in unexplained circumstances.
The INCB, a quasi-judicial UN body which monitors the implementation of drug conventions, had urged Manila in August 2016 to immediately stop the killings.
It said in its new annual report that it would continue "to encourage states that retain capital punishment to consider the abolition of the death penalty for drug-related offences."
The report comes as the Philippines seeks to reinstate the death penalty for drug-related crimes.
Last week, the Filipino Parliament passed a second reading of a bill on capital punishment. A final reading is to be held next week but it is viewed as a formality.
Many had expected that increasing international criticism could force Duterte to tone down his rhetoric on drugs. However, the president announced on Tuesday that Philippine police, which had been suspended from the anti-drug campaign in January over corruption claims, would be recalled to the action.
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Kenya forces kill about 60 Shabab militants in Somalia
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 4:56PM
Kenyan troops have killed nearly 60 suspected members of the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab militant group during a fierce fighting in southern Somalia, a Kenya's military spokesman says.
Col. Joseph Owuoth said in a statement on Thursday that Kenyan soldiers under the African Union command used helicopter gunships and artillery against al-Shabab Takfiri militants in Afmadow, a town located about 100 kilometers inland from the port of Kismayo.
"In the onslaught, 57 al-Shabab militants were killed and unknown number injured," Owuoth said.
The spokesman added that at least five gun-mounted pickup trucks known as "technicals" were also destroyed in the offensive.
In January, al-Shabab militants targeted a Kenyan military base in the southern Somali town of Kulbiyow, near the Kenyan border.
Kenyan authorities said that nine soldiers lost their lives in the assault, while al-Shabab said it killed at least 66.
Last January, al-Shabab said it had killed over 100 Kenyan troops in El Adde, a Somali camp near the border with Kenya.
Suspected al-Shabab militants kidnap 3 teachers in Kenya
Meanwhile, Kenyan police said Thursday that gunmen had kidnapped at least three Kenyan teachers from Dadaab refugee camp in eastern Kenya.
Three men with pistols abducted the teachers with the Udha Academy in the Hagadera section of the world's largest refugee camp, which hosts more than 300,000 Somali refugees.
Mohamud Saleh, the northeastern regional security coordinator, said security forces sealed the route into neighboring Somalia, where the gunmen are suspected to have come from.
Kenyan authorities say the camp has become a recruitment and training ground for al-Shabab.
The government in Nairobi blamed al-Shabab for the kidnapping of two Spanish aid workers from Dadaab camp in October 2011.
In June 2012, four international aid workers were kidnapped from Dadaab in an assault that saw a Kenyan driver killed.
The militant group has vowed revenge on Kenya for sending soldiers to Somalia to fight it.
Kenya says multiple cross-border attacks led to its decision to send troops to Somalia.
The al-Shabab militant group, which once had control over many parts of Somalia, including the capital city Mogadishu, aims to topple the central government and push out the African Union mission to Somalia, known as AMISOM, which is made up of soldiers from Kenya, Djibouti, Uganda, Ethiopia, and other African countries.
AMISOM and Somali troops driven al-Shabab out of all major urban strongholds and ports, but the group still stages attacks on targets in smaller, more remote areas, posing a threat to peace.
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Sudan's Bashir appoints first premier since 1989 coup
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 4:11PM
Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir has appointed a prime minister for the first time since the post was abolished following a coup in 1989.
Bakri Hassan Saleh, 68, took the oath of office at the presidential palace in Khartoum on Thursday, a day after he was named as prime minister by the executive bureau of the president's National Congress Party (NCP).
A close confidante of Bashir, Saleh has served in several ministerial portfolios in the Sudanese government, including interior and defense. The army general, who is known as "Bashir's shadow," was head of Sudan's all powerful National Security and Intelligence Service in the 1990s.
Saleh was an influential military officer in the 1989 coup which brought Bashir to power. He has been a key aide to Bashir and served as first vice-president, a post he will continue to occupy in the future.
The appointment is part of reforms proposed by a year-long national dialogue between the Sudanese government and some opposition groups.
Bashir, who has faced criticism over his way of dealing with dissent, concluded in October last year a national dialogue involving his government and several opposition groups. The main aim of the initiative is to resolve insurgency in Sudan's border regions and heal the country's crisis-wracked economy.
Bashir scrapped the post of prime minister after he launched the 1989 coup against then premier Sadiq al-Mahdi.
Lawmakers approved constitutional amendments last year while Mahdi returned to Sudan from a two-year exile last month. The post of prime minister was created by constitutional amendments.
Many say the appointment of a new prime minister would help Bashir revive his decades-old rule and give it a new look.
Khaled Tigani, a senior journalist, said Sudan would hardly differ under Saleh's premiership as it would be a continuation of Bashir's rule.
"General Bakri's appointment is broadly a continuation of Bashir's rule rather than a new chapter in Sudan's politics," he told AFP, adding, "But at the end of the day it depends on the leadership that General Bakri manages to show."
Saleh said in a brief statement after taking oath that his cabinet would represent various political forces.
"Our country is at a historic moment as it harmonizes all political parties and powers who participated in the national dialogue," Saleh said.
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Egypt's top appeals court acquits Mubarak over killing protesters during 2011 revolution
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 2:51PM
Egypt's top appeals court has acquitted former dictator Hosni Mubarak of involvement in the killing of hundreds of protesters during the 2011 revolution that ended his nearly three-decade reign.
The former president was originally sentenced to life in prison in 2012 for conspiring to murder 239 demonstrators during an 18-day revolt which began in January 2011.He was also found guilty of sowing chaos and creating a security vacuum.
However, an appeals court later overturned the verdict and ordered a retrial, citing technical flaws in the prosecution.
The retrial resulted in dropping the case two years later, but the public prosecution appealed the decision and ordered another retrial by Egypt's top appeals court.
The Thursday ruling by Egypt's top appeals court -- the Court of Cassation -- is final.
During the court hearing, the judge read Mubarak the charges, in which he and his interior minister were accused of providing weapons and vehicles used to assault protesters.
Mubarak denied the charges as he was sitting in a wheelchair in the defendant's cage, saying, "It did not happen."
Hundreds of people died when security forces clashed with demonstrators in the weeks before Mubarak was ousted from power in 2011.
Lawyers representing the families of those killed in the 2011 revolution have called for the charges against Mubarak to be upgraded to murder. They have also demanded that the court summon current President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who was head of military intelligence at the time.
Mubarak-era figures are gradually being cleared of charges and a series of laws limiting freedoms have raised fears among activists that the old regime is back.
In an election after Mubarak's ouster, Muslim Brotherhood-backed Mohamed Morsi was elected president. Morsi was later ousted in a military coup led by Sisi in July 2013.
Since Morsi was toppled, the Egyptian government has been cracking down on any opposition.
Rights groups say the army's crackdown has led to the deaths of over 1,400 people and the arrest of 22,000 others, including some 200 people who have been sentenced to death in mass trials.
The UN Human Rights Council has repeatedly expressed concern over Egyptian security forces' heavy-handed crackdown and the killing of anti-government protesters.
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US drone strikes kill six in northwestern Pakistan, southern Yemen
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 11:15AM
At least six people have been killed in US drone strikes in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region near the border with Afghanistan and the southern regions of war-torn Yemen.
A drone strike claimed the lives of a pair riding a motorcycle in Pakistan's Kurram Agency, located in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, the country's lawless tribal areas, on Thursday, reported a government official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The official added that it was not yet clear who the victims were.
"A drone missile struck the motorcycle, which caught fire and then exploded," said Haji Zamin Hussain, a village elder from the area, without giving more information.
The area is said to be home to militants from both the Afghan and Pakistani Taliban militant groups as well as the al-Qaeda terrorist group.
The US has been conducting drone strikes in several countries. The aerial attacks, initiated by former US President George W. Bush in 2004, were escalated under former President Barack Obama.
The US claims the airstrikes target members of al-Qaeda and other militants, but according to local officials and witnesses, civilians have also been the victims of the attacks in many cases.
The people of Afghanistan have been suffering from violence and insecurity since the US and its allies invaded the country as part of Washington's so-called war on terror in 2001. Many parts of the country still remain plagued by militancy despite the presence of foreign troops.
The military invasion removed the Taliban from power, but militancy continues across the country.
Meanwhile, two US drone strikes killed at least four people, suspected to be al-Qaeda members, in the Yashbum Valley in Yemen's southern province of Shabwah.
A separate drone strike also hit an area in the eastern parts of the Shaqra town in the southern province of Abyan. However, there were no immediate reports of possible casualties from the latter strike.
The drone attacks in Yemen have continued alongside the Saudi military aggression against Yemen.
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Sweden To Bring Back Conscription
March 02, 2017
Sweden announced March 2 that it will reintroduce compulsory military service starting this summer to respond to global security challenges.
"The government wants a more stable staff supply system and to boost its military capability because the security situation has changed," Swedish Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist told local media.
Sweden ended conscription in 2010 because it had been considered unsatisfactory for meeting the needs of a modern army.
Sweden's government on March 2 is set to introduce to the parliament a bill to restore conscription this summer for all Swedes born after 1999. Compulsory military service is set to last for 11 months.
The measure is expected to be adopted by parliament.
Sweden is not a NATO member but has signed the alliance's Partnership for Peace program launched in 1994 to develop military cooperation between NATO and non-member countries.
The Nordic and Baltic region's only non-aligned countries, Finland and Sweden, have stepped up their military cooperation with the United States following concerns over Russia's increased military activity in northern Europe. Finland shares a 1,340 km-long border with Russia.
Russia has warned against Sweden and Finland joining NATO, an issue that has been debated in both countries.
Based on reporting by Reuters and AFP
Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/sweden-to-bring- back-conscription/28343112.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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(Photo/Courtesy of TRAFFIC, China office)
World Wildlife Dayin China was marked by a public pledge from Baidu, Alibaba and Tencentthe top three Internet service providers in Chinato create an industry-wide alliance to tackle illegal wildlife trade online.
The Baidu, Alibaba and Tencent BAT pledge was made during a Listen to the Young Voices eventthe theme chosen for this years World Wildlife Daywhere young people from government, associations, relevant private sector organizations and NGOs expressed their passion for protecting wildlife.
Between them, the three BAT internet giants have hundreds of millions of global users and a significant influence on daily life and consumption patterns in China through their social media, online trade and search engine services.
The BAT initiative to create the alliance was supported by of Chinas Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora of China Management Authority (CITES MA), the Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) and TRAFFIC.
WWF and TRAFFIC are delighted to see the three BAT companies go beyond their individual efforts to fulfill their corporate responsibilities and form an industry-wide partnership to take action against online illegal wildlife tradethis is another significant move following TRAFFICs signing of strategic MoUs with Alibaba in 2014 and Tencent in 2015, said Zhou Fei, Head of TRAFFICs China Office.
TRAFFICs regular online market monitoring in China has revealed an ongoing shift of illicit trade in wildlife products from physical markets to online platforms and onto social media, as a result of increasing law enforcement efforts. [LINK: www.traffic.org/storage/China-monitoring-report.pdf].
In response, Tencent has established applications whose popularity is rising rapidly on Wechat and their instant messaging platform QQto raise awareness about the issue and allow users to report suspected illegal wildlife trade. Last September, Tencent co-hosted a side event with Chinese government agencies, TRAFFIC and IFAW during the CITES meeting in South Africa, to encourage governments to take immediate action to rein in online illegal trade.
Youth are the major users of the internet and also the engine of the future. We welcome how the young generation is contributing their talents to counter illegal wildlife trade in cyber space, said Qin Qi, the Director of Security Liability Programme, Information Security Department of Tencent.
Alibaba has also worked to remove illegal wildlife trade advertisements from their platforms since the MoU with TRAFFIC was signed.
Zheng Qianru, Senior Security Operations Officer, Alibaba, said We are glad to see more young people initiating wildlife protection campaigns or advocacy through online or social media platforms. Our internal voluntary Wildlife Clubis one of the most popular employees clubs in Alibaba and we repeatedly try to engage the public and fulfill our responsibilities to counter online illegal trade through refining the internet environment.
Chen Hao, Director of the Information Security Center, Baidu, said: We hope to exchange further experiences with Alibaba and Tencent, to develop the most effective ways to combat illegal trade and initiate positive advocacy. We shall utilize our own knowledge, understanding and experience of online processes for animal protection!
As the first step in the alliance initiative, CWCA, WWF and TRAFFIC co-hosted a workshop where further internet companies were invited to discuss the risks of wildlife crime and draft Standard Operational Procedures (SoP)a practical manual for online service companies to ensure their operations are unified and legally compliant. A vital tool given the newly-revised Wild Animal Protection Law in China specifically puts responsibility onto internet companies whose services are being used by traders illegally buying and selling wildlife and wildlife products. The meeting also discussed techniques and methods to detect and combat online illegal wildlife trade and implications of relevant Decisions taken at the recent CITES meeting in South Africa.
The Listen to the Young Voices event in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, was co-hosted by Chinas CITES MA and Nanjing Forest Police College, supported by WWF and TRAFFIC.
It attracted some 300 participants from the National Inter-agency CITES Enforcement Collaboration Group (NICE-CG), including representatives from the State Forestry Administration, Forestry Police, Customs, Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Public Security, the State Administration for Industry & Commerce, and China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) and other domestic and international conservation organizations, together with relevant business and industry associations including the China Traditional Medicine Association.
TRAFFICs efforts to combat online illegal wildlife trade are kindly supported by WWF UK and GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the German Federal Ministry for Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety (BMUB).
Georgia Proposes Clever Way to Cheat Montreux Convention, Host NATO in Black Sea
Sputnik News
21:56 02.03.2017(updated 22:11 02.03.2017)
Georgian Chief of General Staff Vladimir Chachibaia says that NATO should create a coast guard base in the Georgian Black Sea port of Poti. This, he argues, would help the alliance evade the provisions established in the Montreux Convention, which limit non-Black Sea powers' access to the body of water.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, commander Chachibaia recalled that the Montreux Convention limits the frequency and duration of alliance warship visits to the Black Sea, and hinted that if NATO does not want to increase financial assistance to Georgia and Ukraine to grow their own flotillas, it could establish a coast guard base in Poti.
"Frequent visits by NATO warships to the Black Sea are one of the ways for the alliance to enhance its operations. But there is a constraint: the Montreux Convention," the officer explained. "There is another option: for NATO to help Georgia and Ukraine to strengthen their Naval flotillas, which would require high spending." Alternatively, Chachibaia hinted, "NATO could set up a coast guard base in Georgia's coastal zone."
They could do so "near Poti a port of strategic importance," the officer added.
Chachibaia didn't clarify how this would help the alliance strengthen its presence in the body of water. The Montreux Convention puts limits on tonnage of vessels belonging to non-Black Sea powers deployed in Black Sea, and the amount of time they can remain there (21 days). Furthermore, the Montreux Convention specifically restricts non-Black Sea nations from establishing a permanent presence in the body of water.
Chachibaia's remarks echoed those of Georgian Defense Minister Levan Izoria, who said Thursday that Tbilisi was ready to let NATO use its military facilities for training purposes as part of efforts to boost security in the Black Sea region.
"We express our full readiness to join a greater number of NATO marine drills, we express readiness to let NATO use our ground infrastructure for various training purposes, we express readiness to have two officers in Romania for coordination purposes," Izoria said, following a meeting with NATO Military Committee chairman Gen. Petr Pavel.
Members of the NATO Military Committee, the bloc's senior military authority, arrived in Georgia earlier on Thursday. According to the Georgian Defense Ministry, the visit will end Friday.
Georgia is not a NATO member, but has been seeking membership and cooperation with the alliance since the early 2000s. In 2008, NATO expressed support for Georgia's bid to join the alliance, and established a commission to oversee the process of Georgian NATO accession.
Sputnik
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Kenya Defense Forces Kill Over 55 Al-Shabab Militants in Somalia
Sputnik News
18:18 02.03.2017(updated 18:35 02.03.2017)
57 al-Shabab militants were killed and unknown number injured by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), operating within the framework of the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM), according to the KDF's spokesman.
MOSCOW (Sputnik) The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), operating within the framework of the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) on Thursday killed 57 militants of the al-Shabab militant group in the eastern African state, the KDF's spokesman said.
"In the onslaught, 57 al-Shabab militants were killed and unknown number injured KDF troops remain vigilant and will continue to relentlessly pursue the terrorists to ensure peace and security of our country Kenya as well as support Amisom operations in order to stabilise Somalia," Col. Joseph Owuoth said, as quoted by The Star newspaper.
He added that the Kenyan troops had also destroyed at least five pick-up trucks equipped with guns in the clash that started at 8:45 a.m. local time (05:45 GMT).
Kenyan troops are deployed in Somalia as part of the AMISOM mission launched in 2007. Kenya has sent its first servicemen to the crisis-torn Somalia in December 2013, according to the mission's website.
Sputnik
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Egypt's Court Acquits Ex-President Mubarak on Charges of 2011 Protester Killings
Sputnik News
18:13 02.03.2017(updated 20:45 02.03.2017)
Egypt's court of cassation finally acquitted ex-president Hosni Mubarak on charges of killing protesters in 2011.
The Egyptian Court of Cassation on Thursday acquitted ex-president Hosni Mubarak on charges of complicity in deaths of protesters during the unrest in 2011, local media reported.
This trial will be the last for Mubarak in this case, the verdict is final and not subject to appeal, the Youm7 newspaper reported.
In June, 2015, the court upheld the complaint of the Attorney General on the acquittal and ordered a retrial. All other defendants, including former Interior Minister Habib Adly, were finally acquitted.
On January 25, Egypt marked the fifth anniversary of the Arab spring uprising that led to the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak.
Unrest in Egypt started with a peace demonstration on January 25, 2011 over demands for minimum wage rises, the resignation of the internal affairs minister and the democratization of society. The demonstrations passed for the most part peacefully but clashes broke out in Suez where the first blood was spilled.
In the following days, hundreds of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets. Police were unable to keep the massive protests under control and effectively backed away.
President Hosni Mubarak imposed a curfew and troops entered Egyptian cities. Nevertheless, clashes continued, with protesters attacking police stations and smashing cars and looting and torching shops and government institutions.
After days of mass protests, President Mubarak resigned and handed over power to the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces on February 11, 2011.
At least 800 people were killed and several thousand injured during the protests and subsequent riots.
Former President Mubarak, his sons and the majority of the country's top officials were put on trial.
In June 2012, the Cairo Criminal Court found Mubarak guilty of involvement in the death of peaceful protesters during the January 2011 popular uprising and was sentenced to life in prison but in November 2014 the Cairo court dropped charges against him.
The ruling provoked a public outcry. The Prosecutor General's Office appealed the ruling over procedural violations. In June 2015, the Egyptian Court of Appeal granted the prosecutor's challenge. The retrial of Hosni Mubarak on charges of involvement in the killing of protesters will start on April 7, 2016. It will be the last trial for Mubarak on these charges, while the verdict will be final and not subject to appeal.
In May 2014, Mubarak was also found guilty of embezzling public funds for the modernization of the presidential palace. His sons Gamal and Alaa were prosecuted on the same charges. Mubarak was sentenced to three years in prison and his sons received four years each.
In January 2015, the Egyptian Court of Appeal overturned the May 2014 verdict for Mubarak and his sons and ordered a retrial on embezzlement charges.
On May 9, 2015, a Cairo court sentenced Mubarak and his sons to three years in a high-security prison for corruption-related crimes.
On May 13, 2015, despite his conviction on corruption charges, Mubarak was released from custody as the court found he had already served the term during pretrial detention.
Sputnik
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Hunger persists in chronic conflict zones despite strong global harvests - UN
2 March 2017 Despite robust food supply conditions, droughts are worsening food security across swathes of East Africa, and access to food has been dramatically reduced in areas suffering civil conflicts, a new United Nations report has found.
"This is an unprecedented situation. Never before have we been faced with four threats of famine in multiple countries simultaneously," Kostas Stamoulis, the Assistant Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), said in a news release issued today, noting that famine has been formally declared in South Sudan, and the food security situation is of grave concern in northern Nigeria, Somalia and Yemen.
According to the new edition of FAO's Crop Prospects and Food Situation report, some 37 countries require external assistance for food, 28 of them in Africa as a result of lingering effects of last year's El Nino-triggered droughts on harvests in 2016.
In South Sudan, 100,000 people were facing famine in Leer and Mayendit Counties, part of former Unity state. Overall, about 4.9 million people across the country were classified as facing crisis, emergency or famine.
In Yemen, 17 million people, or two-thirds of the population, are estimated to be food insecure. The report notes that "the risk of famine declaration in the country is very high."
In northern Nigeria, 8.1 million people are facing acute food insecurity conditions, and in Somalia, an estimated 2.9 million people have been severely food insecure from six months ago.
Conflicts and civil unrest in Afghanistan, Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Myanmar and Syria are also exacerbating food insecurity conditions for millions of people as well as affecting nearby countries hosting refugees.
Global food supply conditions robust
The report says, however, global food supply conditions are robust.
Cereal production made quite strong gains in the world overall in 2016, with a record recovery in Central America, and larger cereal crops in Asia, Europe and North America.
Prospects are favourable for the 2017 maize crop in Brazil and Argentina and the outlook is generally positive for coarse grains throughout the Southern Hemisphere. Prospects for rice are mixed, but it is still too early to make firm predictions for many of the world's major crops.
Maize harvests in Southern Africa, slashed by El Nino, are forecast to recover this year, with South Africa's output expected to increase by more than 50 per cent from 2016.
Although FAO's first global wheat production forecast for 2017 points to a 1.8 per cent decline from last year's record level, that is due mostly to a projected 20 per cent output drop in the United States.
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Perpetrators of terrorist attacks in Kabul must be brought to justice, stresses UN Security Council
2 March 2017 Strongly condemning yesterday's terrorist attacks in the Afghan capital, Kabul, the United Nations Security Council underscored the need to bring the perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of such "reprehensible" acts to justice.
At least 15 people were killed and dozens more injured in attacks in two areas of the capital. The Taliban has claimed responsibility for the incidents.
In a statement issued late yesterday, the 15-member Security Council stressed that terrorism in all its forms "is criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of its motivation and wherever, whenever and by whomsoever it is committed.
"[It] should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group," the Security Council highlighted.
Also in the statement, Council members voiced serious concern over threats posed by the Taliban, Al-Qaida, Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh) and other illegal and armed groups to the local population, National Defense and Security Forces and the international presence in the country.
"No violent or terrorist acts can reverse the Afghan-led process along the path towards peace, democracy and stability in Afghanistan, which is supported by the people and the Government of Afghanistan, and by the international community," the Council added.
It also stressed the need for all UN Member States to combat by all means, in accordance with the UN Charter and other obligations under international law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.
Further in the statement, the members of the Council expressed their deep sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the people and Government of Afghanistan. They also wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
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Trump Defense Budget Under Scrutiny
By Peter Heinlein March 02, 2017
U.S. President Donald Trump is visiting a Virginia shipyard Thursday to tour the most expensive warship ever built - a high-profile event designed to showcase his budget pledge this week to dramatically boost U.S. military spending.
"We're going to spend a lot more money on military," he told the Fox and Friends morning television show this week ahead of a major address to a joint session of Congress.
The president will lay out his defense budget priorities in Newport News, Virginia, aboard the $13-billion USS Gerald R. Ford, which has been plagued by cost overruns and delays.
The war vessel shifts from steam to electrical power and will be equipped with the best weaponry, communications and operating systems in the nation, according to the builder Huntington Ingalls Industries. It is expected to be commissioned later this year.
The president's initial request for a $54 billion hike boosts the Pentagon budget to more than $600 billion a year. Calling it one of the largest increases in history, Trump said he would even like $30 billion more than that to strengthen what he called a "depleted military". By contrast, the State Department receives roughly $50 billion a year for programs including foreign aid, assistance and development.
'Not the largest by any means'
At first glance, the figures suggest Trump is planning a much higher U.S. military profile in the world's hot spots. A diverse group of scholars and military analysts, however, say the proposed 10 percent hike won't make all that much difference in the grand scheme of things.
They note that the U.S. military is already the most powerful fighting force on the planet and the United States spends significantly more on defense than any other country.
Todd Harrison, director of defense budget analysis at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, disputed Trump's assertion that the Trump proposal would be one of the largest increases in history.
"That's a bit of an overstatement. It's certainly a significant increase, but keep in mind the Obama administration was already planning a 6-7% increase for 2018. The point is, if you look back at defense budgets over time, we had an increase of about this size in 2008 and 2002, and in several years in the early 1980s. So it's not as large as it seems, and by historical standards it's not the largest by any means."
Harrison points out that Congress had consistently appropriated significantly less for defense than what president Barack Obama had requested.
Veronique de Rugy, Senior Research Fellow at the Mercatus Center at Virginia's George Mason University and a nationally syndicated columnist, doubts that boosting spending will do much to improve military preparedness.
"This just perpetrates the myth that every extra dollar that the Pentagon spends enhances national security. It's not the case," de Rugy said.
She expressed concern that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, who are not necessarily experts on military affairs, often look at defense spending in black and white terms.
"I'm more than disappointed that people who claim to care so much about national security seem to have a wrong-headed definition of security," she said, "as if national security only means spending more money. Strategically spending money doesn't seem overall to matter that much in the end."
'Preparation for war with Congress'
Regardless of its actual impact, the massive spending proposal helps Trump to argue that he is making good on his campaign promise to "Make America Strong Again." It is also prompting both allies and foes to reassess their own defense strategies.
Former State Department official Joshua Walker, now a fellow at the German Marshall Fund, says countries such as Turkey see a stronger United States as a net plus in stabilizing the troubled Middle East.
"From an allied perception, Turkey would welcome this, saying it's about time America has a more robust military presence in our neighborhood". Walker described mainstream Turkish thinking as, "What's happening in Syria is unacceptable. America needs to be more involved. Look what's happening in Iraq. America has put troops there before and didn't get it done. Maybe they'll get it done this time".
On the other hand, Walker says many Asian countries see a bulked up U.S. military as "exactly the provocation that countries like China and Russia have been telling their people to expect for a long time". He contends talk of a buildup is also sending the impression abroad that the United States is no longer an inviting and welcoming place. "That becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy," he said.
While President Trump may get his way with a Congress controlled by Republicans, Todd Harrison of CSIS points out that the push for big military spending increases is only the first salvo in an administration budget offensive. "This is really the opening negotiations for the budget battle this year," he said. "This is not a preparation for war. If it's a preparation for war, it's a preparation for war with Congress."
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Aid Agencies Struggling to Provide Food to South Sudanese Refugees in Uganda
By Jill Craig March 02, 2017
Uganda has taken about half of the more than 1.5 million South Sudanese who have fled into neighboring countries, as South Sudan has become Africa's largest refugee crisis, resulting from more than three years of civil war.
As the refugees flee conflict, sexual violence, looting, and food insecurity highlighted by the recent announcement of famine in two counties of Unity State they're finding that aid agencies are struggling to provide them with enough food in the Ugandan refugee settlements.
Charlie Yaxley, the spokesperson for the United Nations refugee agency in Uganda, says resource constraints meant food rations had to be cut in half last year for all refugees who arrived in Uganda prior to mid-2015. He noted that exceptions were made for those who were considered vulnerable.
"We continue to operate in a context of chronic, severe underfunding. Last year, the humanitarian appeal for South Sudanese refugees in Uganda was $251 million U.S. dollars, and we received just 40 percent of that money," said Yaxley. "And that has a real, direct impact on humanitarian organizations' abilities to deliver critical live-saving aid."
More coming
With thousands of South Sudanese refugees continuing to arrive in Uganda every day, including more than 120,000 new arrivals in the first two months of this year, aid agencies are struggling to keep up.
"The resourcing situation is so bad, that it is possible that we will have to extend those cuts; we have been on the brink of having to do that several times in the last month but have managed to avoid it," said Challiss McDonough, a spokeswoman for the U.N. World Food Program in East Africa. "But we just are simply not getting the resources that we need to keep pace with the incredibly large number of refugees that have arrived in the country in the last six months."
It costs the U.N. about $13 million per month to feed the more than 700,000 primarily South Sudanese refugees now living in Uganda who depend on food assistance, a figure which McDonough says is not being met. Approximately 200,000 of the refugees are receiving the reduced rations.
A progressive approach
Despite the resource challenges, though, Yaxley says that Uganda has an "incredibly progressive" approach to asylum. It provides refugees with plots of land to build new homes and grow crops, and they live next to the Ugandan host community. They can find work, start a business, and are free to move around the country. He says the host community has "welcomed refugees with open arms," but that others need to do more.
"It's key to stress that this is not a crisis Uganda and neighboring countries can tackle alone," said Yaxley. "It's vital that the international community come together with their resources and expertise to first of all ensure the humanitarian appeals are fully funded but also to explore the reasons why people are fleeing in the first place."
And because refugee crises are impacting so many places around the world, including Syria and Afghanistan, resources are already stretched thin, observes McDonough.
"And we try very hard not to prioritize one hungry person over another, because of where they live," said McDonough, "but the problem is that the needs globally are so enormous that there just aren't right now the resources within the international community to meet those needs."
The government of Uganda and UNHCR, the U.N.'s refugee agency, work with humanitarian organizations to coordinate the refugee response at border entry points. They provide clean water and medical screenings that include examining children for malnutrition, and providing high-energy biscuits for people who are likely malnourished.
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Sessions Will Recuse Himself From Any Inquiry Into Trump Campaign
By Ken Bredemeier March 02, 2017
U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said he would recuse himself from any investigations into President Donald Trump's campaign or investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
Sessions spoke at an afternoon news conference Thursday after facing growing pressure to resign, or at least remove himself from his agency's investigation into allegations of Russian meddling in last year's presidential election.
Earlier Thursday, Trump said he has "total" confidence in Sessions.
The two top congressional Democrats, Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, both demanded the attorney general's resignation after it became known that Sessions met twice last year with Moscow's ambassador to Washington, even though he testified at his January confirmation hearing that he had no contact with Russians.
Sessions, recently sworn in as the country's top law enforcement official after being one of Trump's top surrogates during the presidential campaign, told NBC News that "whenever it is appropriate," he would recuse himself from his agency's investigation into the Trump campaign's alleged links with Russian officials during the long presidential campaign.
Trump voiced his support for Sessions while on a trip to a naval warship based in Virginia. Both opposition Democrats and Republican allies of Sessions called for him to remove himself from the probe of Russian interference in the election.
Trump spokesman Sean Spicer told Fox News that Sessions "was 100 percent straight" with senators questioning him at his confirmation hearing. Spicer said Sessions, as a senator at the time, met with Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak in his capacity as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, not as a representative of the Trump campaign.
Spicer accused Democrats of pushing "a false narrative for political purposes."
Sessions met Kislyak in July at an event on the sidelines of the Republican National Convention, and again in September at Sessions' Capitol Hill office.
Sessions' aides late Wednesday acknowledged the contacts with Kislyak, but said they were not meetings between the Trump campaign and Russia, but rather discussions Sessions held as a member of the Senate panel.
Sessions had testified under oath at his confirmation hearing, "I have been called a surrogate a time or two in that campaign and I didn't have, did not have communications with the Russians, and I'm unable to comment on it."
Democrats' reaction
Schumer said that because Sessions' agency, the Department of Justice, "should be above reproach, for the good of the country, Attorney General Sessions should resign." Pelosi accused Sessions of "lying under oath."
Senator Al Franken, a Minnesota Democrat who asked Sessions at the confirmation hearings about any Russian contacts he had had, told CNN, "He made a bald statement, that during the campaign he had not met with the Russians. That's not true. It's extremely misleading at the most charitable."
Republicans' reaction
Some Republicans agreed with Democrats that Sessions should remove himself from any oversight of the probe into alleged links between the Trump campaign and Russia.
A key Republican, Congressman Kevin McCarthy, said, "It would be easier" for an investigation into ties between the Russian government and Trump's campaign if Sessions recused himself from it.
Another Republican, Congressman Jason Chaffetz, said Sessions should clarify his testimony and remove himself from the investigation.
Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent Republican who served with Sessions on the Armed Services Committee, said during a CNN town hall event Wednesday that an independent investigator should be in charge of the probe.
"It is clear to me that Jeff Sessions, who is my dear friend, cannot make this decision about Trump," Graham said. "There may be nothing there, but if there's something there, if the FBI believes there's criminal nature, then for sure you need a special prosecutor."
Flynn and Russia links
Trump's new administration has already seen the resignation of his first national security adviser over alleged links to Russia. Trump ousted Michael Flynn after just 24 days on the job after information emerged that he had lied to top officials about the nature of his own conversations with the Russian ambassador.
Trump has denied multiple reports that people connected to his campaign had connections with members of the Russian government during the election season.
Aside from the White House, Sessions had other defenders, too.
Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, who unsuccessfully fought Trump for the Republican presidential nomination, told MSNBC that Sessions' testimony was "unfortunate. He didn't speak as clearly as he should have."
Cruz, however, said, "Context is important. The underlying meeting [with the Russian ambassador] is a nothing burger. The underlying meeting is simply doing his job. That's part of being a senator."
Russian probes
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is part of the Justice Department that Sessions heads, is probing alleged Russian activities aimed at disrupting the U.S. election to help Trump win, and any possible links between the Trump campaign and the government of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The Senate Intelligence Committee is carrying out its own probe, and the House Intelligence Committee announced parameters for its investigation Wednesday.
The U.S. intelligence community concluded last year that Russia interfered in the election to help Trump defeat former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the Democratic candidate.
They said Moscow hacked into the computer of Clinton's campaign chief. Then, the anti-secrecy group WikiLeaks released thousands of the emails found on the computer in the weeks before the election showing embarrassing, behind-the-scenes efforts by Democratic officials to help Clinton win the party's presidential nomination.
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US Ambassador: Macedonian President Violating Democratic Principles
By VOA News March 02, 2017
The United States ambassador to Macedonia is calling for President Gjorge Ivanov to reverse his decision to withhold from the opposition a mandate to form a new government with ethnic Albanians.
Ivanov on Wednesday defied parliament, saying he would not give such authority to anyone backing what he calls "a platform undermining Macedonia's sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence."
The leader of the opposition Social Democrats, Zoran Zaev, accused the president of a coup and pushing Macedonia into a "deep crisis with unforeseeable consequences for citizens and the state."
"The United States was disappointed to learn yesterday that President Ivanov declined to offer to representatives having a clear parliamentary majority the opportunity to form a new government," U.S. Ambassador Jess L. Baily said Thursday at a news conference in Skopje.
"We believe that this was inconsistent with basic democratic principles and the rule of law, which are core values of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization [NATO]," to which the Balkan country is seeking accession, he added.
"As a strategic partner of Macedonia, as a friend, and with full respect to Macedonia's sovereignty and unity, we urge President Ivanov to reconsider this decision. At the same time, we urge Macedonia's neighbors to exercise restraint and be constructive at this moment of heightened political sensitivity in the country," Baily said.
His comments came less than a day after European Enlargement Commissioner Johannes Hahn began pressuring Ivanov on social media, Tweeting: "In a #democracy, one must acknowledge #parliamentary #majorities, even if one doesn't like them."
Macedonia has been a candidate for accession to the European Union since 2005.
In December, Ivanov's conservatives won two more seats than the opposition, although neither party won enough seats to form a government on its own. The conservatives failed to put together a coalition while the Social Democrats succeeded with ethnic-Albanians by promising to expand the use of Albanian as an official language.
Ivanov is refusing to give Zaev a mandate to form a government despite a majority in parliament signing a letter backing a new coalition.
The pledge to expand the Albanian language triggered protests in the streets of Skopje that drew thousands.
Macedonia has been in a political limbo for two years since a surveillance scandal broke and eventually forced veteran VMRO-DPMNE leader Nikola Gruevski to resign a year ago.
Relations between Macedonians and the ethnic-Albanian minority have always been tense and had threatened to become civil war in 2001 when ethnic-Albanian militants began attacking Macedonian forces.
This report was produced in collaboration with VOA's Albanian Service.
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Kremlin Seeks to Expand Influence in Increasingly Unstable Balkans
By Jamie Dettmer March 02, 2017
Serbia's outgoing prime minister, Aleksandar Vucic, reassured European Union officials visiting Belgrade on Wednesday that his country remains committed to joining the European bloc but he cautioned that Serbs also want to pursue traditional ties with "friends from the East."
And in recent months, those friends in the Kremlin have been busy, say Western officials and analysts.
From offering help with disaster relief to supplying sophisticated weaponry, including warplanes, the Kremlin is seeking to expand its influence in the Balkans, a region Moscow has viewed historically as in its sphere of influence, they warn.
Moscow's diplomatic offensive apparently is paying off. A recent Gallup poll suggests a majority of Serbs views Russia as a more dependable ally than NATO, an organization Belgrade officially wants to join.
"Serbia is on its European path, because we think that we belong to this type of society; we would like to join the countries who believe in democracy, entrepreneurship, human rights," Vucic told the European officials.
He warned, though, that ordinary Serbs "often see the EU as a machine for pressure over Kosovo," a reference to the as-yet-unresolved status of the onetime Serbian province, which declared formal independence in 2008.
Serbia has withheld recognition of Kosovo as has Russia.
Many Serbs frowned on former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and cheered President Donald Trump's election, a reflection of their residual anger over NATO's bombing of Serbia in 1995 and 1999 during the Balkans War ordered by her husband, then-President Bill Clinton. They had hoped the new U.S. president would change course on U.S.-Balkans policy and favor Belgrade in the unresolved dispute over Kosovo's status.
American officials, though, have dashed Serbian hopes with recent statements indicating Washington's support for Kosovo will remain unwavering during the Trump presidency.
Those statements included a call by the new U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, for the breakaway province to become a full member of the U.N.
"In Kosovo, while more must be done to strengthen governance and the rule of law, the United States believes that the international community must recognize Kosovo's great strides since independence," Haley said February 21 at the U.N. Security Council.
Heightened tensions
Kosovo's status is just one issue dividing the Balkans. Others include whether to tilt geopolitically to the East or West, and border disputes. Ethnic tensions are on the rise in Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro. Bosnia remains split among Serbs, Bosnians and Croats, and the wounds of the vicious three-year-long war of the 1990s have not yet begun to heal.
All the issues are adding to tensions in the Balkans just as the region turns into a political battleground between a revanchist Russia and an uncertain West, say pro-West Balkan politicians.
Last week, neighboring Montenegro's former prime minister accused Russia of "destructive" politics in the Balkans. His comments came in the wake of startling allegations by Montenegro officials that the Kremlin was behind an attempt in October to overthrow the country's pro-Western government.
Milo Djukanovic, who resigned after the alleged pro-Russian plot, told Socialist Democratic Party members that Montenegro is now in the firing line of a newly assertive Russia eager to expand its influence in the Balkans. Pro-Russian opposition parties were ready to use "bloodshed and a coup" to install a pro-Kremlin government, he said.
The Kremlin has denied the allegations of Russian involvement in an election day plot that allegedly included plans to kill Djukanovic and take over the country's parliament. Prosecutors have accused some 20 people including two Russians of involvement.
Russian officials have recently said Serbia, Bosnia, Macedonia and Montenegro should be seen as in Moscow's sphere of interest and are opposed to any of them joining NATO. As with other parts of Europe, the Kremlin has been supporting openly anti-EU nationalist parties in the Balkans.
Russian 'autocracy'
In Serbia, analysts say a clear illustration of the Kremlin's efforts to expand its clout can be seen in the growing role Russian media are playing in the country.
In May, a report by the Center for Euro-Atlantic Studies, a pro-Western Belgrade-based policy research organization, found that 109 registered non-governmental organizations, associations and media outlets can be linked to pro-Russian lobbying efforts.
The increase in Russian media activity, according to the research group, started in 2008 in Serb areas of northern Kosovo, and increased dramatically in 2012, coinciding with pro-Serb demonstrations and the start of negotiations on the normalization of relations between Serb and Kosovo authorities under the auspices of the EU.
Pro-Russian advocacy "increased drastically in 2015 when it became clear that Serbia would begin formal negotiations with the EU, and when the intention of stronger cooperation with NATO within the Individual Partnership Action Plan [IPAP] was disclosed," according to the authors of the study, Eyes Wide Shut.
"The replacement of democracy with autocracy, under the current Russian model, is the main goal of Russian soft power in Serbia and in the region. Other goals are the reduction of support for European integration and the discrediting of the very concept of [EU] enlargement," the research group's authors assert.
There also has been a noticeable increase in the influx of content sponsored by state-run Russia media outlets, such as Russia Today and Sputnik, offered for free to cash-strapped Serbian media outlets.
With elections due this year in Serbia, and the first indictments expected from an international court established in The Hague for trials of alleged historical war crimes committed during the 1990s by the ethnic Albanian Kosovo Liberation Army, tensions are likely only to increase in the Balkans.
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A delegation of young journalists from Hebei province interviewed several CPPCC members on March 3. The journalists are all teenagers who believe that the Two Sessions meetings are an ideal opportunity to practice their skills and broaden their perspectives.
Du Wanying, a participant from Bolinzhuang Elementary School in Shijiazhuang, Heibei province, told Peoples Daily Online that the special activity has enriched her knowledge. She also noted that this is her third time taking part in Two Sessions news coverage as a member of the young journalist delegation.
The delegation, known as Heqing Young Journalists, was first organized in 2009 by Heibei Youth News. It was intended to improve the ability of teens to communicate, cooperate, innovate and reflect.
The fifth session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, started its annual session on March 3 in Beijing.
Type 001A Shandong
The Shandong (hull 17), China's second aircraft carrier as well as its first domestically built one, was commissioned 17 December 2019 into the People's Liberation Army Navy in Sanya, South China's Hainan Province. The carrier's hull number 17, indicates that it is a training carrier, as is her sister ship 16 Liaonang. Togther, these two carriers can train thousands of crew members each year, in preparation for an enourmous enlargement of China's carrier fleet with big deck carriers, twice as large as the first pair, later in the 2020s. Chinese experts stressed China's aircraft carrier development was defensive in nature, aims to safeguard national sovereignty and would not be used to seek hegemony.
China is projected to match the American fleet of 10 big-deck carriers before the year 2029, the centenary of the foundation of the People's Republic. China's third aircraft carrier could be launched within the next two years, be combat ready by 2025 and feature an electromagnetic catapult and stealth fighter jets. The third carrier might still be powered conventionally, as China's nuclear-powered vessel technology was likely to mature by 2025 to 2030 and so not keep up with the construction speed of the third carrier.
The commissioning coincided with the anniversary of the establishment of the Qing Dynasty's Beiyang Fleet on December 17, 1888. The fleet was wiped out in the First Sino-Japanese War, which was one representation of China being invaded due to its inability to master modern military equipment. Shandong is a large costal province and hosts China's first aircraft carrier base, which could be one of the reasons for the name. The Beiyang Fleet was established in Shandong.
China had been expected to launch its first domestically built aircraft carrier on the 68th anniversary of the founding of the PLA Navy on Sunday 23 April 2017. But it was reported that tidal conditions were not conducive for a launch to mark the navys birthday, and the ceremony was expected to take place in the next few days. China's first homegrown aircraft carrier was floated to a dry dock 25 April 2017, signaling that its official launch was fast approaching.
China was close to completing its second aircraft carrier, which will begin service by 2020, experts said 21 February 2017. China Central Television (CCTV) reported that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy's Type 001A class aircraft carrier's scaffold had been removed and red undercoat has been painted below the ship's waterline in Dalian, northeastern Liaoning Province, and that a launching ceremony will soon be held.
In the 30 March 2017 meeting of the Ministry of Defense at a regular press conference, a reporter asked: "The progress of domestic aircraft carrier is of much concern, and there is news that the domestic aircraft carrier will be launched on April 23. Can you confirm this?." China's Ministry of Defense spokesman said:" The domestic aircraft carrier is currently progressing well, and when to test the water, I believe will not let everyone wait!"
Photos of the first Chinese domestic aircraft carrier show it had been painted with red primer, the island had begun to install the glass and the front phased array radar and other equipment. Recent photos showed that the deck had begun to clean up, so it ws thought it would most likely in the near future be in the water. Reported speculation that the date may be the People's Liberation Army Navy foundation day that is, 23 April 2017.
"Unlike the Liaoning(Type 001), China's first aircraft carrier, a refitted ship built by Ukraine (under the former Soviet Union), the 001A is China-built, and its design, combat capability and technologies will be much more advanced," Song Zhongping, a military expert, told the Global Times.
On 31 December 2015 the Chinese defense ministry formally announced the construction of the 001A, and another spokesperson Yang Yujun said, "This carrier, with a displacement of 50,000 tons, will be the base for J-15 fighters and other types of aircraft." The design and construction of the second aircraft carrier is based on experience, research and training from the first carrier, the Liaoning, Yang added.
The US Defense Department reported in early 2009 that "Analysts in and out of government project that China will not have an operational, domestically-produced carrier and associated ships before 2015. However, changes in China's shipbuilding capability and degree of foreign assistance to the program could alter those projections. The PLA Navy is considering building multiple carriers by 2020."
The US Department of Defense reported on 06 May 2013 that "China also continues to pursue an indigenous aircraft carrier program ... and will likely build multiple aircraft carriers over the next decade. The first Chinese-built carrier will likely be operational sometime in the second half of this decade.... China will probably build several aircraft carriers over the next 15 years."
The 2016 Annual Report to Congress: Military and Security Developments Involving the Peoples Republic of China reported that "In 2015, China began construction of its first domestically produced aircraft carrier."
During the 2018 Two Sessions, Yuan Maorong, an NPC deputy from Taizhou city, East China's Zhejiang Province, suggested naming the carrier "Wei Wen", after a military general from the Three Kingdoms period (AD 184/220-280) who was the first man in history to arrive at Taiwan, according to cctv.com on March 13. Yuan said naming the carrier Wei Wen would show the historical fact of Taiwan being an integral part of China, and push the development of Cross-Straits relations.
The discussion of how the ship should be named has also been spreading in social media. Many Chinese netizens suggested simply naming the carrier "Taiwan," while others suggested naming it "Shi Lang", an admiral who recaptured Taiwan for the Qing Dynasty. "This displays the high expectations among the Chinese people over solving the Taiwan question, because they want the country to use the first domestically built aircraft carrier as a symbol to announce its determination and ability to achieve this aim, and also send a tough warning signal to the secessionists in Taiwan," Li noted.
However, the carrier is not targeting Taiwan, according to a military expert from a Beijing-based military academy who requested anonymity. He explained that if Beijing decided to use military measures to solve the Taiwan question, the PLA is fully capable of doing so without an aircraft carrier, and Type 001A was made for a greater purpose.
"The PLA Navy has regulations for naming large vessels like aircraft carriers, which generally use the names of provinces and municipalities," Song said. "Liaoning is primarily a platform for training personnel and collecting data through testing, while Type 001A is China's first carrier made for combat missions, so its name could be more special. It's impossible to name it with a person's name, for only vessels used for scientific research can use a person's name in China," said the anonymous military expert.
China's second aircraft carrier left a port outside the Dalian Shipyard on 13 May 2018 for its first sea trial, signaling that the production of this domestically built carrier was nearly complete. China's first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, which has served the navy for 13 months, underwent 10 sea trials. Some military experts suggest with the knowledge gained from the Liaoning the new aircraft carrier is likely to see smoother sea trials.
China's second aircraft carrier was transferred from dry dock into the water at a launch ceremony in Dalian shipyard of the China Shipbuilding Industry Corp. in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, at a launch ceremony, starting about 9 am April 26, 2017. The new carrier, the first domestically-built one, came after the Liaoning, a refitted former Soviet Union-made carrier that was put into commission in the Navy of the Chinese People's Liberation Army in 2012. The ceremony was attended by Fan Changlong, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, as well as leaders of the PLA Navy and China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation.
The Shandong is based in Sanya near the South China Sea, while the Liaoning is based in Qingdao, East China's Shandong Province near the East China Sea, Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea. Having one carrier in the east and another in the south will ensure fast reaction time when the presence of an aircraft carrier is needed.
The second aircraft carrier based in the south can effectively patrol the South China Sea, protect islands and reefs there and act as a strategic foothold at sea. While the Liaoning could go from the East China Sea to the Pacific Ocean and train more pilots and officers, the Shandongcould sail from the South China Sea into the Pacific Ocean and even go to the Indian Ocean. One carrier could also stay near the mainland for alert missions, while the other could sail farther away into high seas for long-range missions.
In terms of time, regular maintenance is needed for a carrier to stay combat ready. When one carrier is under maintenance or repair, the other could take over its missions so China will always have a carrier to deploy. Another new choice is to let the two carriers form a dual-carrier battle group for maximum combat capability. A dual-carrier battle group will boost China's maritime combat capability, because a moderate or more intensive regional conflict, especially in high seas, requires at least 45 carrier-based aircraft to achieve regional air and sea superiority, which is not possible with a single Chinese aircraft carrier.
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Malaysia to release DPRK suspect in airport killing
People's Daily Online
(Xinhua) 14:24, March 02, 2017
Malaysia's attorney general said on Thursday that a Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) man, who was arrested as a suspect following the airport killing, will be released and deported.
Ri Jong Chol, the 47-year-old DPRK man who worked at a local anti-cancer drug company in Malaysia, was arrested by the police on Feb. 17 for suspected involvement in the airport case, in which a DPRK man with the passport name of "Kim Chol" was poisoned with lethal VX nerve agent. Ri was remanded for two weeks in police custody. The remand will expire on Friday.
Malaysia's Attorney-General Mohamed Apandi Ali did not elaborate on the reasons of the release, but local media said it was due to a lack of evidence. During the investigation, the police did not reveal the connections between him and four other suspects believed to have fled the country.
On Wednesday, the two female suspects who carried out the attack, one from Indonesia and one Vietnamese, were charged with murder. If convicted, the two will face death sentence.
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North Korea vows to 'nuke aggressors' amid US-South Korea drills
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 9:50AM
North Korea has lambasted the ongoing joint military exercises by South Korea and the United States with fiery rhetoric, warning of "merciless nuclear counter-action" in case of military aggression by the two countries.
"Now that the US imperialists and the south Korean puppet forces again kicked off the dangerous nuclear war drills against the DPRK [the Democratic People's Republic of Korea] at its doorstep, our army will counter them with the toughest counter-actions as it had already declared," North Korea's official KCNA cited a statement by an unidentified military spokesman as saying on Thursday.
The North's strong reaction came a day after the war games began in the region. Some 15,000 US and 90,000 South Korean troops are expected to participate in the two-phased joint exercises, known as Key Resolve and Foal Eagle, which will stretch over two months.
A group of demonstrators convened outside the US Embassy in Seoul on Wednesday to protest the drills, saying the exercises would push the Korean Peninsula closer to the brink of a nuclear war.
Seoul and its key ally Washington hold the annual joint military exercises as a signal to Pyongyang, which has been rapidly developing a missile and nuclear program. The North, however, perceives the maneuvers as a direct threat against its security and planned rehearsals for an invasion on its territory.
The US currently has 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea as a presumed deterrent force against North Korea.
"The forces of vassal countries will be targets of our strikes as they are imprudently involved in the ongoing saber-rattling, toeing the US imperialists' hostile policy toward the DPRK," the North Korean statement further warned.
The United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) have already imposed an array of crippling sanctions on the North over its nuclear tests and missiles launches. On Monday, the EU also imposed additional sanctions on the country. The fresh measures included restrictions on trade in coal, iron, and iron ore, plus a ban on imports of copper, nickel, silver, and zinc from North Korea.
Despite the sanctions and other forms of international pressure, Pyongyang declared itself a nuclear power in 2005 and has pledged to strengthen its military capability to protect itself from the threat posed by the presence of the US forces in the region.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un also accuses the US of plotting with regional allies to topple his government.
Pyongyang said on February 13 that it had successfully test-fired a new type of medium- to long-range ballistic missile the previous day, its first such test in 2017. The missile reportedly flew about 500 kilometers toward Japan, landing off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula.
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Malaysia stops visa-free entry of North Koreans
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 6:43AM
Malaysia is canceling arrangements for the visa-free entry of nationals from North Korea as the diplomatic relations between the two Asian countries growingly strain over the recent assassination of the North Korean leader's exiled half-brother in Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia's state news agency Bernama cited Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi as announcing the decision on Thursday. He said Kuala Lumpur had made the decision due to national security reasons.
As of Monday, when the decision will be enforced, North Koreans will be required to obtain a visa to enter Malaysia.
Kim Jong-nam, the North Korean leader's half-brother, was attacked by two female assailants at the departure hall of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport on February 13. The attackers, both of whom have been arrested, wiped some form of toxic liquid over Kim's face. He died en route to the hospital.
Later forensic research and autopsy on Kim's body revealed that the female attackers had wiped the extremely toxic VX nerve agent over the victim's face. The UN has declared VX a weapon of mass destruction.
Malaysia also detained two men, one of them a North Korean national, identified as Ri Jong Chol, in connection with the killing. However, Mohamed Apandi Ali, Malaysia's attorney general, said on Thursday that Ri would be released and deported to his home country on Friday, some two weeks after he was arrested, because there were "insufficient evidence to charge him."
Malaysia also said that it "strongly" believed that four North Korean suspects, who fled Malaysia on the day of the killing, had arrived in the North Korean capital of Pyongyang. South Korea's intelligence service claims that the four suspects are "spies" working for North Korea's Ministry of State Security.
South Korean police have already claimed that Kim was killed by North Korean agents, an allegation that Kuala Lumpur has yet neither confirmed nor denied.
Pyongyang, however, flatly denied Seoul's allegations last Thursday.
Malaysia has refused to turn over Kim's body to North Korea and has sought to question a North Korean diplomat in connection with the killing. Malaysian police also seek to question an employee of the North Korean airliner Air Koryo.
On Wednesday, the magistrates' court in Kuala Lumpur announced murder charges against the two women attackers over the assassination. The two, identified as Siti Aisyah from Indonesia and Doan Thi Huong, a Vietnamese national, will face the death penalty if they are convicted of the murder charge.
The assassination and subsequent developments have soured relations between Malaysia and North Korea and seem likely to lead to an all-out diplomatic rift.
Jong-nam, who studied in Russia and Switzerland, was a computer enthusiast and fluent Japanese speaker. After completing his overseas studies, he oversaw North Korea's information technology policy. He fell from grace in 2001, however, and had been living in exile since 2003. He was reportedly an occasional critic of Pyongyang, advocating reform.
His death is the second most high-profile death during the reign of his younger brother, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, since the execution of Jang Song-thaek, the brothers' once powerful uncle, in December 2013.
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US, S Korean Financial Regulators Discuss Expanding Sanctions Against N Korea
Sputnik News
08:49 02.03.2017(updated 08:57 02.03.2017)
South Korea's Minister of Strategy and Finance Yoo Il-ho held a telephone conversation with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to discuss ways to expand sanctions against Pyongyang in the aftermath of the murder of Kim Jong Nam, the reputed half-brother of North Korea's leader, the South Korean finance ministry said Thursday.
TOKYO (Sputnik) According to the ministry's press release, it was the first conversation of the two ministers following the inauguration of US President Donald Trump and formation of his administration. The sides expressed commitment to expanding the bilateral cooperation in different spheres.
"The sides have agreed to cooperate over the issue of toughening of financial sanctions against North Korea, as well as to monitor the implementation of the current sanction regime both with regard to the UN Security Council and unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States and South Korea," the ministry said.
The ministers have also agreed to hold a more detailed dialogue on the sidelines of the G20 finance ministers' meeting, which is expected to take place in Germany on March 17-18.
North Korea's nuclear program has been a source for concern for its closest neighbor, South Korea, as well as for the international community. On February 12, Pyongyang launched a medium-range ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan and declared the test successful. This and a number of previous launches were considered to be in violation of the UNSC resolutions by the United Nations.
On February 13, Kim Jong Nam, the alleged half-brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, was killed at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The highly toxic gas was smeared on his face as he was about to board a flight to Macau. Kim is believed to be killed by a VX nerve agent classified by the United Nations as a weapon of mass destruction.
On Monday, the South Korean National Intelligence Service (NIS) said that four of the eight suspects involved in the murder worked for North Korea's Ministry of State Security and Foreign Ministry.
Sputnik
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After Alleged VX Nerve Agent Use by North Korea, What Response Should Follow?
By Steve Miller March 02, 2017
Kim Jong Nam, the half-brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, was killed February 13 when two women smeared a liquid that Malaysian authorities say is VX nerve agent on his face at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Indonesian Siti Aisyah and Vietnamese Doan Thi Huong have been charged with murder, a crime that carries with it the death penalty. The two women say they thought they were participating in a televised prank.
But how does this attack in Kuala Lumpur compare with other North Korean moves to consolidate power?
"The use of deadly force or the use of violence to purge any challengers or potential challengers, that's not new," said Daniel Pinkston, Lecturer on International Relations at Troy University in Seoul, South Korea. "But the new element in this is, of course, the VX [nerve agent], if the reports are true, and I have no reason to disbelieve the report. So that is a brand new development."
Stratfor Vice President of Strategic Analysis Rodger Baker observed, "Certainly the way in which they carried out this assassination using VX [nerve agent] is different than what we've seen in the recent past."
Baker recalled an incident in which North Korea tried to eliminate the South Korean Cabinet in Myanmar. "So they've done extreme things, but this is certainly something very different than what we've seen," he said.
Seriousness of VX use
So how serious of an issue is it for the international community that a state like North Korea would use a substance like VX nerve agent in a public space?
Baker says that when examining the assassination method, the attack suggests the VX nerve agent was put together during the assassination.
"So it just wasn't the general release of VX in the space. So in that sense, we could say that this was very targeted in the application and didn't have a major ripple effect to the airport or to other people in the airport ... or apparently even significantly to the two individuals who engaged in the assassination," said Baker.
He continues to say the attack itself is a clear signal North Korea not only is willing to use substances like VX, but do so far from home.
Pinkston reiterates that VX is an extremely deadly substance.
"Only a single drop of it, if it were to get on your skin, will kill you," said Pinkston. "Anyone who would introduce that substance into a public area, in the international airport, I think it's extremely brazen and completely unacceptable, and crosses a red line that's beyond the acceptable international norms."
North Korea continues to develop nuclear weapons and test ballistic missiles, despite several international sanctions put in place and condemnation by the U.N. Security Council.
Options?
How might the international community respond in this instance?
"I think that North Korea must pay a very high price for this, and to not to impose serious costs upon North Korea, I believe, would invite further and more brazen transgressions, and I think it would be the wrong signal to send to North Korea that they could engage in this type of behavior with impunity," said Pinkston.
He recommends that a "menu of options" be made available to the international community, including banning all of their aircraft from international airports, placing greater sanctions on individuals and entities, placing North Korea once more on the list of state-terrorism sponsors, and a proportional use of force directed at chemical weapons facilities.
In Washington, United States lawmakers have called for North Korea to be listed once more as a sponsor of state terrorism.
Baker adds that a question often asked about North Korea is, "What more can be done?" He says that boils down to basically three action items: negotiate with North Korea, further isolate Pyongyang, or carry out some sort of military action.
"There's a growing change of view, for example in China, and the debate in China is growing stronger over whether the risk of a destabilized North Korea is still a greater risk than an uncontrolled North Korea pursuing these weapons and carrying out these actions. That would be the most significant change, if it occurs. And China is the one country, I think, that could really alter the balance," said Baker.
Furthermore, he says that as the United States completes its review of North Korean policy, one can't rule out that military options won't be included in the review.
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France's Next President? Former Investment Banker Soars Amid Rivals' Woes
By Lisa Bryant March 02, 2017
France's next president may be a 39-year-old maverick former economy minister, affiliated with no mainstream political party and with no experience running for office. Until now.
On Thursday, and with less than two months to go before the first round of voting, independent centrist Emmanuel Macron finally unveiled his full political platform, outlining proposals ranging from downsizing France's parliament and slashing government bureaucracy, to embracing closer European Union cooperation, fighting nepotism and rewarding businesses that hire from low-income neighborhoods.
The former investment banker also positioned himself as a champion of the middle and working classes, as he described growing up in a midsize French town and being educated in "the schools of the Republic."
Once dismissed as a passing fad with no tangible proposals, Macron is now in second place behind far-right National Front candidate Marine Le Pen ahead of the first round of voting April 23, but according to many surveys, he could win the May 7 runoff.
Macron's 'young but he really listens'
New polls out this week confirm the trend, with the latest by Elabe finding Macron behind far-right front runner Le Pen 24 percent to 27 percent in the first round, with former conservative prime minister Francois Fillon trailing in third place, with 19 percent. It found Macron beating Le Pen in the second-round with 62 percent of the vote.
Wading into a farm fair outside Paris earlier this week, a must-attend event for all presidential wannabes, Macron got a taste of deep voter discontent, as he wiped off the goo from an egg pelted at his head during the visit.
But he gets the vote of 71-year-old Joseph Rolland, whose son is a cattle farmer near Nantes, in western France.
"He's young but he really listens," Rolland said. "People say he has no political experience, but he'll surround himself with competent people. We need change."
Hiring scandal hurts Fillon
Fillon, once-considered a shoe-in to become France's next president, is struggling for survival amid a parliamentary jobs hiring scandal involving his family.
With Fillon's support base vanishing, some conservatives are calling for another ex-prime minister, Alain Juppe, to step up and take his place. A Harris Interactive poll finds three-quarters of French want Fillon to abandon a race that 80 percent believe he will lose.
Le Pen's immunity lifted
Le Pen and her party also face a corruption investigation regarding questionable hiring practices, in this case involving European Parliament funds. She refuses to pay a $300,000 parliament fine or to appear before magistrates before the elections, citing her immunity as an European Union lawmaker.
Thursday, the parliament voted to lift Le Pen's immunity on a separate matter involving tweeting graphic images of Islamic State militant group killings in 2015.
"Emmanuel Macron wants to situate himself in the intersection of the right and left," French analyst Bruno Cautres told Le Midi Libre in an overall assessment of his platform. "His program offers economic measures of the center right ... and also social dimensions and investments in the future, like training and the environmental transition."
Favors European Union
Macron also calls for closer ties to the European Union and for shoring up the eurozone, in sharp contrast with Le Pen, who wants to hold a Frexit referendum on leaving the bloc if it doesn't renegotiate French membership.
"For the European Union, the best candidate is Macron," said analyst Philippe Moreau Defarges of the French Institute of International Relations in Paris. "But can he be elected? There are a lot of question marks. He's got no political machine. He's a young man. He's inexperienced, he's never been elected."
Macron, who speaks fluent English, also drew sharp differences with the U.S. administration on free trade and climate change.
But Macron also outlined areas of cooperation with the U.S., including intelligence sharing on Iraq and Syria and said he would pursue a strategic relationship with Washington as president.
Former investment banker
A former investment banker, Macron has long rebelled being pigeon-holed, joining the leftist government of President Francois Hollande as economy minister. His legislation to make France more business friendly, voted in as the "Macron law," and new labor reform proposals were watered down amid protests and strikes.
Last April, he launched his "En Marche!" or "Forward!" movement, which he describes as neither right nor left. A few months later, he resigned to prepare for his presidential candidacy, a move critics called a betrayal to Hollande, his former mentor. The deeply unpopular Hollande ultimately chose not to run for re-election.
Macron is the son of a doctor, who studied philosophy before graduating from the elite Ecole Nationale d'Administration, he is married to his high school French teacher, who is 20 years his senior.
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Germany Says Its Troops Will Stay In Baltics 'As Long As Needed'
RFE/RL March 02, 2017
German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel has described a military buildup by Russia along its borders with the Baltic states as "completely irrational" and has vowed to keep German forces in the region as long as necessary.
Speaking during a March 2 visit to Lithuania's Rukla military base, where about 400 German soldiers are stationed, Gabriel said "the military potential that the Russian Federation has built up here at the border is completely irrational in my view because there is zero threat emanating from these countries."
The German troops are part of a 1,000-soldier battle group that eventually is to be integrated with U.S., British, French, Canadian, and other NATO forces.
Gabriel said the German troops will remain at the Lithuanian base "as long as needed" but did not provide further details.
NATO countries have been increasing force deployments in the Baltics to reassure allies about support from the alliance in the face of aggressive actions by Russia since early 2014 when the Kremlin seized and illegally annexed Ukraine's Crimea region and began supporting pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Moscow has defended its troop movements near the Baltic borders, saying they are defensive in nature and part of efforts to modernize its overall forces.
In a statement on March 2, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova described the arrival of U.S. troops in the region as "dubious" and "provocative actions."
"It could not escape us that the U.S. troops that recently arrived in Poland and the Baltic states have already managed to mark themselves...with a clear anti-Russian focus," Zakharova said in a statement.
Another German official, Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen, told reporters at an air base in Amari, Estonia, that the Baltic states and other countries can "rely" on support from Germany.
"Estonia, and our friends from Lithuania, Latvia and Poland, can rely on us," von der Leyen said. "We Germans know what it means to be at the eastern border and to have the solid protection of the alliance."
Gabriel and von der Leyen both have also discussed concerns about Russia's growing disinformation and cybercampaigns described under Russia's military doctrine as "hybrid warfare."
"No one expects a real military confrontation to happen here," Gabriel said on March 2.
"But what there is, and what has been reported in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, are attempts at massive disinformation and influence campaigns," Gabriel said.
With reporting by Reuters, Interfax and dw.com
Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/germany-baltics -russian-troops-buildup-sigmar -gabriel/28344021.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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Indian Navy All Smiles After Testing Anti-Ship Missile From Submarine
Sputnik News
15:13 02.03.2017
The first two French Scorpene-class submarines are not equipped with torpedoes, a submarine's primary weapon. The Indian government has put on hold the acquisition of 98 Black Shark heavyweight torpedoes due to a bribery scandal that erupted last year.
New Delhi (Sputnik) The Indian Navy has successfully conducted the maiden firing of an anti-ship missile from the first of the indigenously built Kalvari-class submarines.
The submarine is said to have launched MBDA's Exocet SM 39 missiles during the test firing in the Arabian Sea, said sources in the Indian Navy. Undergoing sea trials, the Kalvari is expected to be commissioned by the middle of this year.
"The missile successfully hit a surface target at extended ranges during the trial firing held this morning. This missile launch is a significant milestone, not only for the Kalvari, which is the first in a series of Scorpene-class submarines being built in India, but also in enhancing the Indian Navy's sub-surface warfare capability," said a Navy statement.
India launched the INS Khanderi, the second Scorpene-class submarine in January this year. It is expected to be commissioned into the Navy by the end of this year. Indian Navy has said that all six Scorpene (Kalvari) class submarines being built in India will be equipped with EXOCET SM 39 anti-ship missile.
Weighing 650 kg, the subsonic EXOCET SM 39 is a long-range missile, capable of all-weather operation against all classes of warships. MBDA claimed that the missile can hit targets in extremely short time with full freedom to maneuver for the submarine after firing. It has a high hit probability against moving targets.
The Indian Navy has collaborated with DCNS of France in 2004 for construction of six Scorpene class submarine under the $3.5-billion contract. But the program has been delayed for more than four years with cost escalation of more than one billion dollars due to low-level of technological absorption capacity and purchase of materials in early years by Indian shipbuilder MDL.
Sputnik
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Indian Navy to Set Up Met Facilities for Myanmar Navy
Sputnik News
13:04 02.03.2017
In recent past, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are playing the China card to get best techno-commercial defense deals from India.
New Delhi (Sputnik) The Indian Navy will set up meteorological facilities for the Myanmar Navy in its bid to counter Chinese influence in the Bay of Bengal. Until now, China had been the leading contributor to capacity building in the Myanmar Navy.
The Navy will also train personnel of the Myanmar Navy to operate the facilities. The decision came on a request made by a visiting delegation of the Myanmar Navy which is in the Indian capital.
An Indian Navy statement said the delegation has been asked to send a proposal to the Southern Naval Command to take up the request with higher authorities.
The Myanmar Navy is also exploring avenues for defense cooperation. The Myanmar Navy officers visited other training/simulator facilities at Kochi, including Flight and Tactical Simulator, Water Survival Training Facility and other training schools, as well as the Hydrographic Survey Unit.
"Towards fostering closer and warmer relations with Myanmar, the Indian Navy has always tried to strengthen defence cooperation with the Myanmar Navy by providing assistance, especially in the fields of training, weapon/ equipment sales and hydrographic assistance," release said.
To counteract Chinese influence, Indian Navy has expedited collaboration with its Myanmar counterpart. It is likely to supply OPVs to Myanmar. A Damage Control Simulator built by the Goa Shipyard Limited was commissioned last year in Myanmar Navy. Myanmar Navy has chosen Indian sensors for its indigenously-built ship UMS Aung Zeya. For 3,000 ton Kyan Sittha-class frigates, Myanmar Navy has opted for sonar from Indian defense research agency DRDO. The HMS-X hull-mounted sonar is an export version of the HUMSA-NG meant for major Indian Navy ships.
Sputnik
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Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
By Anakhanum Hidayatova Trend:
Negotiations on strategic partnership agreement between the European Union and Azerbaijan have started, Head of EU Delegation to Azerbaijan Malena Mard told reporters in Baku March 3.
Mard noted that the new round of negotiations will be held soon and cover a wide range of issues, including such spheres as migration and trade.
Touching upon the recent tensions on the line of contact between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Mard said that the status quo is unsustainable and expressed the EUs support for the activity of the OSCE Minsk Group.
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.
Indian Army To Invest $2.5B in Israeli Missile System
Sputnik News
03:10 02.03.2017(updated 06:35 02.03.2017)
In a sign that Israel and India are strengthening ties, the two nations have agreed to a huge weapons deal to jointly expand India's aerial defense systems.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has agreed to a deal for a medium-range surface-to-air (MRSAM) missile system to be produced by Israeli Aerospace Industries and India's Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), the Mail Today reports.
The deal marks 25 years of cooperative diplomatic ties, The Algemeiner pointed out.
"The formal clearance for the MRSAM project has been given by the Cabinet committee on security headed by the prime minister last week," according to an Indian ministry of defense official. The formal contract will be awarded later in March, the official said.
Initial reports indicate that the missile system will protect Indian air space from hostile aircraft and drones flying within a range of 30 to 45 miles. "The Indian Army wants to use the MRSAM to provide air defense to the mechanized formations operating in the plains, semi-desert and desert sections of the country," an Indian Army official told DefenseNews.
Amid the positive development between the two nations, however, lurks the pressing issue of who will have full intellectual property rights, Defense News noted. The IP rights to the missile technology belong to Israel Aerospace Industries, according to retired Indian Army Maj. Gen. Bhupinder Yadav, "with the exception of those subsystems developed by DRDO." The missile platform "will be manufactured in India," and will feature "80 percent indigenous content," Yadav said.
A 2008 attempt by the Indian Army to acquire MRSAM missiles proved futile when "none of the bidders met the technology transfer requirements," DefenseNews reported.
The Indian Army will add 40 MRSAM missiles to its stockpile. The weapons are slated to be operational by 2023, the Algemeiner reported. Israeli Aerospace Industries and India's Defense Research and Development Organization previously completed three flight tests of the weapons system. "The missile successfully intercepted a moving aerial target in all three tests," an Indian Ministry of Defense official said.
Sputnik
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Iraqi army force thwart Daesh assault in western Mosul
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 11:24AM
Iraqi government forces have frustrated an attack by Takfiri Daesh militants in Mosul as they press ahead with their operation to drive the terrorists out of their last urban stronghold in the Arab state.
An unnamed senior officer told the Reuters news agency that a number of militants had managed to get near elite Iraqi units in the southwestern part of Mosul, located some 400 kilometers north of the capital Baghdad, early on Thursday, posing as internally displaced people.
The Takfiris were neutralized before they could carry out any act of terror.
The development came only hours after a local source, requesting anonymity, said two children had sustained injuries after mortar shells fired by Daesh terrorists slammed into Karaj district northeast of Mosul.
The victims were taken to a local hospital to receive medical treatment.
Commander of Federal Police Forces Lieutenant General Raed Shaker Jawdat also announced in a statement that security forces had launched a series of surprise attacks against Daesh fortifications west of Mosul.
He said federal police soldiers have evacuated dozens of displaced families from the area, and moved them to refugee camps in the town of Hammam al-Alil, situated about 30 kilometers south of Mosul.
Moreover, the commander of Nineveh Liberation Operation, Lieutenant General Abdul Amir Yarallah, said Counter Terrorism Service (CTS) members wrested control over Shaqaq al-Ma'moun area in western Mosul on Wednesday.
Additionally, the media bureau of Popular Mobilization Units commonly known by the Arabic name Hashd al-Sha'abi said the pro-government fighters had repelled Daesh attacks on Sada and Bawiza areas north of Mosul.
An Iraqi air force combat drone also struck a parked car in the Wadi Akab industrial area of western Mosul, leaving four Daesh terrorists dead.
On February 19, Iraqi soldiers and Hashd al-Sha'abi fighters mounted a new offensive to liberate western Mosul.
Daesh abducts over two dozen civilians in Kirkuk
Meanwhile, Daesh Takfiris have abducted 25 civilians in the northern oil-rich province of Kirkuk on charges of fleeing a militant-held area in the Zab district.
A Hashd al-Sha'abi source said the terror group accused the civilians of departing the militant-held Zab district, located 95 kilometers west of the provincial capital city of Kirkuk, and crossing into the "land of infidels."
385 civilians killed in Iraq violence: UN
Furthermore, the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) said in a statement on Wednesday that a total of 385 Iraqi civilians lost their lives in the month of February, while 609 others were injured.
The UN mission said the number of casualties does not include security members after Iraqi military authorities criticized UNAMI last December for figures about the deaths of police personnel announced for November.
The northern province of Nineveh, of which Mosul is the capital, is the worst affected area with 201 civilians killed and 250 others injured, followed the capital province of Baghdad, where 120 civilians were and 300 others injured in acts of terrorism and armed conflict.
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Islamabad Approves Plan To 'Mainstream' Federally Administered Tribal Areas
RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal March 02, 2017
ISLAMABAD -- Pakistan's government has approved plans to bring the country's semiautonomous tribal areas into the political mainstream -- a move that would end federal rule of the region and extend the jurisdiction of Pakistan's national courts there.
The Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) along Pakistan's volatile border with Afghanistan have long been a stronghold for Taliban fighters and Haqqani network militants.
Sartaj Aziz, head of the government's reform committee, said the government in Islamabad had approved the reforms "in principle" on March 2.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif told his cabinet the government wants "to bring tribesmen into the national mainstream so that their deprivations can end."
Aziz said FATA would be merged into neighboring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province within five years.
Key reforms would include extending the jurisdiction of Pakistan's national courts, incorporating tribal law enforcement into the national security forces, establishing parliamentary representation for the tribal areas, and ending collective-punishment laws that date from the British colonial era.
For the reforms to take effect, the plan approved by the government on March 2 must now be codified as a draft constitutional amendment that requires approval by two-thirds of the lawmakers in both chambers of Pakistan's bicameral legislature.
There are 104 members of the upper chamber of Pakistan's parliament, the Senate, and 342 lawmakers in the lower chamber, the National Assembly.
In 2016, both chambers of Pakistan's legislature approved a draft version of the plan.
FATA's seven tribal agencies -- Bajaur, Khyber, Kurram, Mohmand, North Waziristan, South Waziristan, and Orakzai -- are home to about 8 million people, most of them Pashtuns.
The Pashtun tribes that inhabit the region are semiautonomous and had maintained good relations with Islamabad until the collapse of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan in late 2001.
FATA was created in the 19th century by British Colonial India authorities.
Since the partition of British Colonial India into two separate states, Pakistan and India, the areas of Pakistan known as FATA have been administered centrally according to a mixture of local tribal traditions -- known as Pashtunwali -- and by civil laws.
Some local tribal leaders have long demanded reform to FATA, saying its status has fueled violence and poverty.
With reporting by Dawn and Geo News
Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/pakistan-mainstream- federally-administered-tribal-areas/28343777.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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Russia's Navalny Claims Medvedev Tied To 'Secret' Property Empire In New Investigation
Tom Balmforth March 02, 2017
MOSCOW -- Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has long styled himself as a liberal-leaning lawyer who loathes corruption, having launched an initiative to combat rampant graft in 2008 -- one of his first acts as president during his four-year stint in the Kremlin.
But now Medvedev is taking fresh fire on the issue from opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, who is accusing the former president of being one of Russia's richest men and one of its "most corrupt" bureaucrats.
In Navalny's latest investigation, released online on March 2 and delivered in his trademark caustic style, the Kremlin opponent accuses Medvedev of using an array of charity and nonprofit organizations to collect donations from oligarchs and state banks and then redirecting the funds to purchase pricey assets.
Navalny called these donations naked bribes. "The only recipients of this 'help' are Medvedev and his family," he said.
The report, accompanied by an explanatory video, alleges that at least 70 billion rubles ($1.2 billion) in funds and assets have been transferred to organizations controlled by people close to Medvedev. It claims that this alleged empire includes palaces, elite residences, estates, yachts, and vineyards in Russia and abroad.
"The real owner of the assets is almost impossible to trace because by being registered to charity foundations, they essentially belong to no one. Medvedev's property is managed by his friends, schoolmates, and trusted people," Navalny alleges in the investigation.
He called Medvedev "one of the richest people in the country and one of the most corrupt bureaucrats."
The investigation was quickly dismissed by Medvedev's office as political bluster and "propaganda."
'Nothing To Do With Charity'
Citing public property records, the investigation alleges that Alisher Usmanov, a billionaire with deep connections in Russia's ruling elite, donated a property in the wealthy Rublyovka village outside Moscow worth 5 billion rubles ($85 million) to a nonprofit fund for state social projects reportedly led by two former university classmates of Medvedev.
"This fund has nothing to do with charity," Navalny said.
Usmanov had not responded publicly to the report as of March 2, and the respected Russian daily RBK reported that his company, Metalloinvest, declined to comment when reached by the newspaper.
The investigation did not uncover any assets linked on paper to Medvedev. Navalny alleges that the organizations cited in the report are managed by people close to Medvedev who oversee "personal" property for the prime minister.
Navalny drew attention to properties that include a vineyard in the Black Sea town of Anapa and one in Italy's Tuscany region; a residence in the western Kursk region; a dacha in the central Ivanovo region investigated by Navalny in September; an estate in Rublyokva; a house in Krasnaya Polyana near Sochi; a house in St. Petersburg; and two plots of land on the Black Sea.
The investigation comes as Navalny tries to raise his profile in order to take part in the 2018 presidential election despite his conviction last month on embezzlement charges that he and his followers say were trumped up to eliminate him from the race.
Medvedev's spokeswoman, Natalya Timakova, said on March 2 that the investigation looked "distinctly like election campaigning" and that commenting on "propaganda attacks" by a convicted man was "pointless," the Interfax news agency reported.
The allegations were reported in several influential newspapers and online news portals, but were ignored by most pro-Kremlin media. As the investigation circulated widely on social media, state news agencies on March 2 reported Medvedev's message of support to farmers that the trade embargo on European Union produce is here to stay.
Navalny rose to prominence during antigovernment protests over allegations of parliamentary election fraud in 2011, and he has emerged as the de facto opposition leader. He carved out an online following as a slick social-media operator and by harrying President Vladimir Putin's allies, whom he has accused of corruption in a series of hard-hitting investigations.
In December, Navalny announced his bid to run for president next year, although the authorities consider him to be barred from the race after he received a suspended sentence last month. He has said he intends to run anyway and has been drawing attention by opening regional election-campaign offices.
A recent poll by the independent Levada Center found that the percentage of Russians prepared to vote for Navalny had fallen from 33 percent in 2011 to around 10 percent this year.
In liberal opposition circles, reactions to the investigation ranged from praise to downbeat skepticism
Roman Dobrokhotov, a journalist and former opposition activist, suggested the investigation might indeed land a blow to Medvedev, but that it could lead to him getting replaced by someone with a tougher reputation, such as Putin's longtime close associate, Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin.
"Now Putin is like: Medvedev has lost my trust, I'll replace him with Sechin. Enjoy," Dobrokhotov wrote on Twitter.
Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/russia-navalny -investigation-medvedev-secret- property-empire/28343861.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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Russian Spokesman Unaware of Meetings Between Sessions and Russian Ambassador
By VOA News March 02, 2017
A Russian spokesman said Thursday he is not aware of any meetings between U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, then a U.S. senator, and Russia's ambassador during last year's U.S. presidential campaign.
"I don't know about any meetings," Dmitry Peskov told reporters when asked whether Sessions and Ambassador Sergei Kislyak met last year.
Sessions is under intense scrutiny after a revelation he had spoken twice with Russia's U.S. envoy while he served as an adviser for Donald Trump's presidential campaign while serving in the U.S. Senate.
Sessions met Kislyak in July at an event on the sidelines of the Republican National Convention and again in September at his Capitol Hill office.
The meetings have fueled the controversy over allegations Russia may have improperly interfered in the presidential election in Trump's favor, and they have prompted some calls in Congress for Sessions to recuse himself from two congressional investigations into the allegations.
Sessions' office has said the meetings occurred in his capacity as a senator, not as a Trump campaign adviser.
Peskov said Thursday it was not unusual for Russian diplomats to meet with U.S. lawmakers.
"The fact is that the overall job of the ambassador is to hold as many meetings as possible" with representatives of the "host country."
Trump, who has repeatedly expressed a desire to strengthen relations with Russia, has accused former officials in former President Barack Obama's administration of trying to discredit him.
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Syria reserves right to use force against Turkey: Envoy
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 7:11PM
Syria's ambassador to the United Nations says Damascus reserves the right to use force against Turkey's military invasion of the Arab country.
Bashar al-Ja'afari, who also serves as the head of the Syrian delegation to current peace talks, made the remarks after meeting with UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura in the Swiss city of Geneva on Thursday.
In August 2016, Turkey launched a major military incursion into Syria with the express aim of pushing back Daesh terrorists from the joint border with Syria and stopping Kurdish advances, which Damascus denounced as a breach of its sovereignty.
Turkey recently said its armed forces and allied militants were almost in full control of the Syrian city of al-Bab and planned to advance further to the nearby city of Manbij.
Ja'afari further accused the Riyadh-based High Negotiations Committee (HNC), Syria's main opposition group, of taking peace talks "hostage" by refusing to include terrorism on the agenda of Geneva talks.
"Progress in the Geneva round must not be held hostage by the Riyadh platform," he said, stressing that the opposition "will be responsible for any failure of the Geneva talks."
HNC's refusal to discuss the issue of terrorism in the peace talks "did not come as a surprise" as some of the group's members are terrorist armed outfits, the Syrian official noted.
The latest round of intra-Syrian negotiations began in Geneva on February 23 aimed at finding a solution to the foreign-sponsored crisis gripping the Middle Eastern country since 2011.
Commenting on Syria's fight against foreign-backed terrorists, Ja'afari said the battle would go on until the whole country was purged of militants.
"Counter-terrorism operations will continue until the last inch of territory from our country is retaken from these foreign terrorists who are wreaking havoc," he said.
Syrian forces have recently liberated many areas from the grip of Takfiri elements, who have suffered major blows on the battlefield.
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Syrian army says has liberated Palmyra from Daesh terrorists
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 4:26PM
The Syrian army says it has fully liberated Palmyra from the grip of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, marking the second recapture of the ancient city.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Syrian army announced that the government forces were in control of Palmyra after a series of military operations and with the help of Russia's air cover as well as "allied and friendly troops."
The announcement came after the Kremlin said the Syrian military, backed by Russian aircraft, had managed to fully retake the city.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu informed President Vladimir Putin of the completion of the Palmyra operation, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying.
Additionally, Russian lawmaker Andrey Krasov said the Daesh flag had been removed from the historic oasis city, adding, "It should be viewed as a joint success of the Russian Air Force and the Syrian military. Shortly, the whole territory of Syria will be liberated from the terrorists."
Meanwhile, the so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), which is sympathetic with foreign-backed militants, said Daesh terrorists had completely retreated from Palmyra.
Daesh "has fully withdrawn from Palmyra, but the Syrian army is still clearing neighborhoods of mines and has not spread out into the whole city yet," said SOHR Director Rami Abdel Rahman.
Earlier on Thursday, Syria's official SANA news agency said army units had established control over the Palmyra Citadel, the Communications Hill and the Dedeman Palmyra after inflicting heavy losses on Daesh terrorists.
Daesh first seized Palmyra, also known in Arabic as Tadmur, in May 2015 and began looting and demolishing the UNESCO world heritage site's monuments and temples.
The Syrian army purged the Takfiri elements from the 2,000-year-old city in March 2016.
However, Daesh recaptured Palmyra once again in December 2016 after days of intense fighting as the Syrian military focused mainly on defeating terrorists in eastern Aleppo.
Syrian government forces have recently made sweeping gains against Takfiri terrorists, who have increased their acts of violence across the Arab country following a series of defeats in Aleppo and elsewhere.
The Palmyra battle comes at a critical time when negotiations are underway between Syria's warring sides in the Swiss city of Geneva aimed at finding a solution to the foreign-sponsored crisis gripping the Arab country since 2011.
HNC 'sabotaging' Syria peace talks
Separately on Thursday, Russia accused the Riyadh-based High Negotiations Committee (HNC), Syria's main opposition group, of disrupting the Geneva talks.
"The results of the first days of the intra-Syrian dialogues, as before, raise questions over the ability of the Syrian opposition representatives to reach a deal," said Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova.
HNC's refusal to cooperate on an equal footing with two Russian-backed opposition groups meant that it was "de facto sabotaging the full dialogue with both the Syrian government delegation and with other opposition groups," she added.
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Daesh pulls back from much of Syrian ancient city: Report
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 8:52AM
Daesh Takfiri militants reportedly withdrew from much of Palmyra overnight amid a major push by the Syrian army to rid the ancient city of the terrorists.
The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Daesh had pulled back to residential areas in the east of Palmyra by Thursday morning.
The terror group "withdrew from most of Palmyra after laying mines across the city," said Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman, adding that there are still Daesh bombers in the city's eastern neighborhoods.
"Government forces have not yet been able to enter the heart of the city or the eastern parts," he noted.
Syrian forces, backed by the Russian air force, pushed into a western neighborhood of the city late on Wednesday after heavy clashes with Daesh.
The Syrian troops also managed to retake a palace complex to the city's southwest.
Earlier in the day, an unnamed Syrian military source told Reuters that the Syrian troops, backed by Russia's air cover, had advanced to the outskirts of Palmyra, also known in Arabic as Tadmur, in the last few days and their "entry to the city will begin very soon."
The developments came on the same day as the Syrian military announced the recapture of an area called the "Palmyra triangle" a few kilometers west of the city. Earlier reports had said the Syrian army and its allies had retaken the Palmyra citadel, on the city's western outskirts.
Meanwhile, Syria's official SANA news agency reported that the gain followed fierce clashes between Daesh militants and the Syrian army and its allied fighters, leaving scores of the terrorists dead or injured.
The Syrian army, backed by Russia's counter-terrorism airstrikes, liberated Palmyra in March 2016, ending Daesh's 10-month grip over the city.
However, Daesh managed to seize the historic city once again in December 2016 after days of intense fighting as the Syrian military focused mainly on defeating terrorist groups in eastern Aleppo.
During both of its spells in control of Palmyra, Daesh razed ancient monuments and dismantled key parts of the city's UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The Syrian forces have been fighting different foreign-backed militant groups wreaking havoc in the Middle Eastern country since 2011.
Over the past few months, troops have made sweeping gains against Takfiri terrorists who have lately increased their acts of violence across Syria following a series of defeats in Aleppo and elsewhere.
US-allied militants turn to Damascus
In another development elsewhere in Syria, US-backed Kurdish militants said Thursday that they had reached an agreement with Russia, a Damascus ally, to hand over the villages on the front line with Turkish-allied militants to Syrian government forces.
Those villages are situated west of the Kurdish-held town of Manbij in northern Syria, which has been the scene of fierce fighting between Kurdish forces and Turkish troops and their allied militants.
Manbij was liberated from Daesh last year by Kurdish forces, mainly the Democratic Union Party, also known as the PYD, and its military wing the YPG.
On Tuesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that after Ankara's forces completed their operations in Syria's al-Bab, they will move towards the Manbij.
Ankara views the YPG as a terrorist organization, accusing it of having links with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) militant group that has been fighting for an autonomous Kurdish region inside Turkey since the 1980s.
Last August, Turkey began a major military intervention in Syria, in move strongly denounced by Syria an act of aggression and a violation of its sovereignty. Ankara claims the offensive is aimed at pushing Daesh from Turkey's border with Syria and stopping the advance of Kurdish forces there.
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UN Panel Alleges Aleppo War Crimes
RFE/RL March 02, 2017
A UN panel has said the evacuation of eastern Aleppo, after months of siege and bombardments by Russian and Syrian forces, was one of many war crimes committed by those fighting for control of Syria's second-largest city.
The Commission of Inquiry on Syria on March 1 unveiled a report looking at violations by all parties in last year's battle for Aleppo, including the indiscriminate bombing of civilian areas, the use of chemical weapons and cluster munitions, and forced evacuations.
The deal to evacuate rebel-held eastern Aleppo allowed no civilians to remain in the city at the end of the protracted campaign, something the commission concluded amounted to "the war crime of forced displacement."
"The scale of what happened in Aleppo is unprecedented in the Syrian conflict," said the commission's chairman, Paulo Pinheiro.
The report looked at violations committed between July 21, when the siege of the rebel-held part of Aleppo started, and December 22, when Syrian troops and allied forces assumed full control of the city.
The commission said war crimes were committed by both sides from July until the city fell on 22 December.
However, it levelled extensive criticism at the government of President Bashar al-Assad, which was backed by Russian jets and Iranian-backed militias throughout the campaign.
A focal point of the probe was the accusation that Syrian war planes had conducted air strikes on September 19 targeting an aid convoy, which had been permitted by the government to deliver food and medicines to the Urum al-Kubra area west of Aleppo.
The report said the evidence strongly suggested that the attack which resulted in the killing of 20 civilians and aid workers was "meticulously planned and ruthlessly carried out."
The attack on the convoy, followed by the suspension of aid deliveries served as a "starve or surrender" policy pursued by the regime in east Aleppo and other opposition-held areas of Syria, the commission said.
The UN also accused Assad's government of repeatedly using chemical weapons and cluster munitions, and systematically destroying hospitals.
With reporting by AP, dpa, and theguardian.com
Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/aleppo-evacuation-un-war- crime-russia-iran-syria/28342914.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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HNC Hopes 'Russia Will Play an Important Role in Syrian Settlement'
Sputnik News
22:55 02.03.2017(updated 23:19 02.03.2017)
The Syrian opposition High Negotiations Committee (HNC) delegation on Thursday expressed hope that Russia will play an important role in restoring peace in Syria.
GENEVA (Sputnik) The HNC delegation hopes that the United States will play a more positive role and Russia will provide more support to the Syrian settlement at Geneva talks, HNC delegation head Nasr Hariri said.
"A peace process to be successful needs a strong international engine. We are waiting to see a positive role from the US administration. We are also hopeful Russia will play an important role. We are still waiting for a more positive role and more support," Hariri told reporters.
Earlier in the day, the HNC delegation and UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura discussed political transition in Syria and went into details on the issue.
"We have continued our discussions with de Mistura. They all focus on political transition. Today we went into further details," Hariri remerkeds after the meeting.
The next meeting between the HNC and de Mistura, aimed at going into further details, is scheduled for Friday, Hariri added.
The fourth round of UN-backed intra-Syrian talks between the government and opposition factions kicked off in Geneva on February 23.
Sputnik
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Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
By Elmira Tariverdiyeva Trend:
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the OSCE thanks the member states and leadership of the European Union (EU) for non-recognition of the illegal referendum held in the occupied Azerbaijani territories, says the missions statement issued on March 3.
The Permanent Mission welcomes the recent statement of President of the European Council Donald Tusk, in which he emphasized that the EU supports Azerbaijans territorial integrity and sovereignty.
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.
Jaafari: Syria Counterterror Operation to Continue Until Country Fully Liberated
Sputnik News
20:30 02.03.2017(updated 20:40 02.03.2017)
Bashar Jaafari, the head of the Syrian government delegation to the intra-Syria talks in Geneva, said that the operation against the terrorists in Syria would be continued until the country is fully freed from terrorism.
GENEVA (Sputnik) The operation to liberate Syria from terrorists will continue until the country is fully freed from terrorism, Bashar Jaafari, the head of the Syrian government delegation to the intra-Syria talks in Geneva, said Thursday.
The Syrian army regained control over Palmyra earlier on Thursday with support of the Russian aircraft operating in Syria.
"I would like to announce the historic city of Palmyra has been liberated from hands of terrorists. You are all invited to visit beautiful city yourself. Counterterrorism operations will continue," Jaafari told reporters.
Sputnik
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Russia-Backed Syrian Army Completely Liberates Palmyra From Daesh
Sputnik News
17:24 02.03.2017(updated 18:33 02.03.2017)
The Syrian Army, supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces, has completed the operation to liberate the historic city of Palmyra from Daesh terrorists, according to the Kremlin spokesman citing Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu's report to President Vladimir Putin.
Earlier reports indicated that Daesh (terrorist group banned in Russia) militants had largely withdrawn from the city following a fierce offensive by the government forces, which led to the recapture of the strategic hills around Palmyra and the Palmyra citadel on Wednesday.
The Syrian army began on Thursday fortifying defensive positions around the ancient city of Palmyra and preparing the demining of the historical part of the city following its liberation from Daesh, a Sputnik correspondent reported.
No explosive devices have been found in the Roman Theater after a preliminary search, although the cables discovered in the ruins and around the columns indicate that the terrorists planned to blow up the remains of the monument before leaving the city.
Daesh seized Palmyra, which was the capital of the Palmyrene Empire and one of the richest cities of the Roman Empire, in May 2015. Terrorists destroyed a number of historic sights designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Arch of Triumph, the Temple of Baalshamin and the Temple of Bel. Jihadists also looted the national museum and the famous Palmyra's necropolis.
Less than a year after that the Syrian army supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces managed to liberate Palmyra. Russian specialists demined the historic center as well as residential areas of the city. Russian historians and renovators visited Palmyra in early July 2016 and prepared a report assessing the condition of the damaged sites and costs of the renovation works. However, in December 2016, the city was retaken by jihadists.
Putin commented on the December Daesh offensive on Palmyra. According to the Russian leader, the situation in Palmyra was a result of discordant actions of different players in Syria.
Since 2011, Syria has been engulfed in a civil war, with government forces fighting against numerous opposition and terrorist groups, including al-Nusra Front and Daesh, banned in a range of countries, including Russia.
Moscow has been conducting a counter-terrorist campaign in Syria since September 30, 2015, at President Bashar Assad's request.
Sputnik
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Taiwan keeping close eye on China's military drill: MND
ROC Central News Agency
2017/03/02 20:53:12
Taipei, March 2 (CNA) Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Thursday that it was closely monitoring a military exercise being conducted by China near the Japanese island of Miyako-jima.
The naval and air exercise Thursday morning included drills by a range of fighter aircraft, early warning and air surveillance planes, H-6K bombers, frigates, destroyers and supply ships in an area south of Miyako-jima, the MND said.
Although the drill was being held outside Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ), the military is staying on top the development and closely monitoring the exercise, the defense ministry said.
Miyako-jima is located approximately 300 kilometers southwest of Okinawa Island.
(By Lu Hsin-huei and Ko Lin)
Enditem/pc
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Cabinet plans travel ban on retired military officers
ROC Central News Agency
2017/03/02 22:19:13
Taipei, March 2 (CNA) The Cabinet plans to amend the existing law governing cross-Taiwan Strait ties to ban political appointees and senior military officers from traveling to China for a minimum of three years after retiring, a spokesman said on Thursday.
The decision to revise the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area was made at a meeting between Premier Lin Chuan () and legislators from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, according to spokesperson Hsu Kuo-yung ().
The proposed ban would apply to political appointees; military officers at the rank of lieutenant-general and higher in the Army and Air Force, and vice admiral and higher in the Navy; officials involved in highly confidential work and intelligence officers, Hsu said.
The travel restrictions would remain in place for a minimum of three years and could be extended based on the nature of work undertaken, he added.
Individuals who formerly worked with highly confidential information would be required to report to the agencies they worked for if they plan to travel to China even after the restricted period, Hsu said.
While in China, the retired officials would not be allowed to take part in activities attended by China's top leaders or behave in a way that adversely impacts the dignity of Taiwan, including bowing to China's national flag and singing China's national anthem, according to Hsu.
Political appointees and senior military officers violating the rule could have their pensions slashed by 30 percent to 100 percent, while those who receive a one-time retirement payment could be fined between NT$500,000 and NT$3 million, he said.
Offenders in other categories would have to return 10 percent to 100 percent of their pensions or pay a fine of between NT$200,000 and NT$2 million, he added.
Calls for the government to amend the law were made after dozens of retired Taiwanese generals attended a gathering organized by the Chinese government in Beijing on Nov. 11 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Republic of China founding father Dr. Sun Yat-sen ().
The ex-generals were reported to have stood up for the playing of the national anthem of the People's Republic of China. They then listened to a speech by Chinese President and General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Xi Jinping ().
Commenting on the issue, retired Navy Vice Admiral Lan Ning-li () on Thursday likened the government's planned travel ban to McCarthyism in the United States during the 1950s.
While it is reasonable to require retired senior military officers to report their plans to attend forums and seminars in China, it would go too far if they are required to also report their private travel plans, he suggested.
Wu Sze-huai (), a retired Army lieutenant general who attended the Nov. 11 gathering in Beijing, said he will abide by whatever is stipulated in the law, but expressed his opposition to targeting retired generals.
He also questioned why the government only restricts retired military officers and political appointees from traveling to China and not other countries.
(By Lu Hsin-hui and Y.F. Low)
ENDITEM/AW/
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Turkey seizes Kurdish-held villages in northern Syria
Iran Press TV
Wed Mar 1, 2017 10:40PM
Turkish-backed militants have seized two Kurdish-held villages in Syria, inching closer to Manbij, which Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to capture.
According to a statement released by the Turkish-backed militants, who are part of Turkey's Euphrates Shield military campaign in Syria, the villages of Tal Turin and Qara, located to the east of al-Bab, were seized following heavy clashes with the so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
The SDF is a coalition of Arab fighters and forces from the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), who are currently in control of nearly all of Syria's entire northern border with Turkey.
On Tuesday, Erdogan announced that after Turkey's forces complete their operations in al-Bab, they will move towards the Kurdish-held city of Manbij.
Kurdish forces, mainly the Democratic Union Party (PYD), and its military wing, the YPG, liberated the northern Syrian city of Manbij from Daesh last year.
Turkish authorities first announced the capture of al-Bab last month. They have made similar claims at least twice since then.
Turkey began its military intervention in Syria in August 2016, sending tanks and warplanes across the border. Ankara claimed that its military campaign was aimed at pushing Daesh from Turkey's border with Syria and stopping the advance of Kurdish forces, but Damascus denounced the operation as a breach of its sovereignty.
Russia denies bombing US-backed militants in Syria
Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry rejected claims made by Washington that Russian and Syrian aircraft had bombed positions held by US-backed Syrian militants.
"We had some Russian aircraft Syrian aircraft bomb some villages that I believe they thought were held by Daesh," said US Army Lieutenant General Stephen Townsend, adding that the airstrikes were carried out on villages close to al-Bab, where "some of our Syrian Arab coalition forces" are located.
"Not a single airstrike on the regions specified by the US side was conducted by Russian or Syrian air forces," said a statement released by Russia.
"To avoid any incidents, the US representative has provided exact coordinates of the US-backed opposition forces in the region to a Russian officer," it added.
Russian air force fighters have been striking armed terrorists across Syria, including Daesh and Jabhat Fateh al-Sham terror groups, at the official request of the government of President Bashar al-Assad since September 30, 2015.
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German officials block pro-Erdogan rally by Turkish minister
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 6:56PM
German officials have forbidden Turkish Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag from addressing President Tayyip Erdogan's supporters in the town of Gaggenau amid a diplomatic row between the two countries.
They withdrew permission on Thursday for an event where Bozdag had planned to address a campaign rally in support of a controversial constitutional referendum to boost Erdogan's executive powers.
Gaggenau officials said the venue chosen for the rally was too small for the expected crowd, citing security and parking concerns as reasons for scrapping the permission for the event.
Bozdag called the decision to withdraw the permit as "unacceptable," reported Turkey's state-run Anadolu news agency.
The Turkish minister also protested to the cancellation of the pro-Erdogan rally in Gaggenau by dropping his planned meeting with German Justice Minister Heiko Maas, reports said.
In a related development, Cologne city officials said they had pulled the permit for Turkey's Economy Minister Nihat Zeybekci to address a separate pro-Erdogan rally in the western city on Sunday.
The planned rallies to gain support from 1.4 million Turks in Germany eligible to vote in an April 16 referendum on expanding Erdogan's powers caused ire amid public outrage over Ankara's arrest of a Turkish-German journalist Deniz Yucel.
Berlin-Ankara dispute
Germany is pressing Turkey to release Yucel, who works for German national daily newspaper Die Welt. He was detained in Istanbul in mid-February over a report about a hacker attack on the Turkish energy minister's email account.
Yucel's detainment has caused grave damage to bilateral relations, German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said on Thursday in Kiev during a visit to Ukraine.
The Turkish ambassador to Germany was "summoned" to the German Foreign Ministry after a court in Istanbul ordered provisional detention for Yucel, urging Ankara to release the correspondent.
Gabriel said the German Foreign Ministry had spoken to the Turkish ambassador again, relaying to him the need for dialog.
In an open letter last month, some 170 German parliamentary lawmakers demanded the "quick" release of Yucel.
Relations between Berlin and Ankara have been strained by a series of disputes since a failed military coup that sought to oust Erdogan last July.
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Turkey tells Kurds to leave Syria's Manbij or face attack
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 1:35PM
Turkey has threatened to strike Syrian Kurdish forces if they do not withdraw from the northern city of Manbij near the Turkish border.
"We have said before we will strike the YPG if they do not retreat" from Manbij, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told journalists in Ankara on Thursday, referring to the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).
Ankara views the YPG as a terrorist organization over its alleged links to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), but Washington supports the group and uses it in its operations in Syria.
The so-called Syria Democratic Forces (SDF), which are led by the YPG, captured Manbij in August 2016 with the help of the US military.
Cavusoglu said once the capture of the Syrian city of al-Bab is complete, Manbij would be the next target of the Turkish troops. Turkey said in late February that its armed forces and allied militants were almost in full control of al-Bab.
Cavusoglu added that despite skirmishes between pro-Ankara militants and Kurdish forces, the Manbij operation had not started yet. He also renewed calls for the new US administration to abandon its support for Kurdish forces operating in Syria.
Kurds to give Manbij villages to Damascus
Meanwhile, an official from the Manbij Military Council announced that the body would hand over villages under its control to the Syrian government in the coming days.
The council, which is part of the SDF, said the handover will be made possible under a deal agreed with Russia in a bid to avoid clashes, adding that its forces would withdraw from the frontline as rival Turkish-backed militants come closer to the Euphrates River.
Cavusoglu, however, claimed that there was no such agreement between Russia and Syrian Kurds.
Turkey launched its incursion into Syria in August 2016, sending tanks and warplanes across the border in what was condemned by Damascus as an act of aggression.
Ankara claimed its military campaign was aimed at pushing Daesh from Turkey's border with Syria and stopping the advance of Kurdish forces.
Turkey is one of the key countries in the Syria conflict, which has raged on since March 2011, allowing militants from around the world to freely enter the Arab nation and wreak havoc there.
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Turkey Sets Up Military Bases in Syrian Cities of al-Bab, Azaz
Sputnik News
18:44 02.03.2017
Reliable sources in the Middle East have told Sputnik that Turkey continues setting up military bases in the north of Syria. Kurdish politician Rezan Hiddo spoke to Sputnik Turkiye about what Turkey's Armed Forces are up to in the area.
Reliable sources in the Middle East have told Sputnik that after setting up a military base in the Aktarin district to the north of Aleppo, Turkey has now set up another military facility in the city of al-Bab which was recently liberated from Daesh.
The base was set up near the Akil hill which is considered to be a strategic height. The sources also said that Turkey is setting up a facility near the city of Azaz.
Kurdish politician Rezan Hiddo, the Chairman of the Syrian Democratic Council, which also includes the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD), commented to Sputnik Turkiye on the above reports.
"We have no intention to advance towards al-Bab as it is the area of deployment of the Turkish Armed Forces and the Forces of the Free Syrian Army operating within the Operation Euphrates Shield," he told Sputnik.
Meanwhile, he said, the residents of al-Bab and its environs have told us that Turkey has set up a military base on the strategic hill of Akil and is gradually stepping up its presence there. Ankara has also set up a military base in close vicinity to the city of Azaz, he said.
By setting up the bases, the politician said, Turkey is not fighting against terrorism but is rather trying to annex the captured Syrian territories.
"Turkey is trying to present the cities of Jarabulus, Al-Rai and Azaz as Turkish territories. Ankara is constantly talking about the borders set up in the National Pact of 1920, a document adopted at the last session of the Ottoman parliament in Istanbul on February 17, 1920, and which considered the territories of the northern Syria and Iraq as Turkish.
Turkey wants to annex the territories of Aleppo, Manbij, Jarabulus and Al-Shaykh, which we think is its ultimate goal, the politician finally stated.
Sputnik
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Erdogan: Turkey Ready to Crush Daesh in Syria Jointly With Russia
Sputnik News
13:31 02.03.2017(updated 14:50 02.03.2017)
The Turkish leader said Ankara was ready to fight Daesh jointly with Russia if Moscow sent a corresponding request.
ANKARA (Sputnik) Turkey is ready to fight the outlawed in Russia Daesh jihadist group in Syria jointly with Russia if it receives a proposal from Moscow, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Thursday.
"If Russia requests the continued joint fight against Daesh, then this fight can be carried out," Erdogan said as quoted by the Haber7 broadcaster on his return trip from Pakistan.
Erdogan said he planned to discuss the subject in Russia later this month. He is expected in Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 9-10, according to the Turkish diplomatic mission in Russia.
Liberation
The next phase of Turkey's Euphrates Shield military campaign in northern Syria will target the Kurdish-controlled city of Manbij, the Turkish head of state confirmed.
He said Tuesday that the Turkish Armed Forces would advance toward Manbij and Raqqa if a mutual understanding with Russia and the US-led coalition was reached, calling on the Democratic Union Party (PYD) and Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) to leave Manbij.
Since 2011, Syria has been engulfed in a civil war, with government forces fighting against numerous opposition and terrorist groups, including al-Nusra Front and Daesh, banned in a range of countries, including Russia.
Moscow has been conducting a counter-terrorist campaign in Syria since September 30, 2015, at President Bashar Assad's request.
On August 24, the Turkish army launched Operation Euphrates Shield against militants of the Daesh group, which is outlawed in Russia and many other countries. Since then the Turkish-led forces have driven Daesh from a number of settlements in northern Syria. The Turkish forces, with assistance from Syrian opposition fighters, occupied the city of Jarablus in northern Syria.
Erdogan said that the aim of the operation is to clear the territory of 5,000 square kilometers (1,930 square miles) in Syria as part of the operation and create a safe zone for refugees.
The operation has been widely criticized both by the Syrian Kurds and Damascus, who have accused Ankara of violating Syria's territorial integrity.
Sputnik
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May should protect EU nationals before Brexit: UK lawmakers
Iran Press TV
Thu Mar 2, 2017 8:27AM
British lawmakers have further delayed the country's withdrawal from the European Union by requiring the government to address concerns regarding the rights of EU citizens living in the country.
The House of Lords voted 358 to 256 on Wednesday for a change to Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plan, stating she can only trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty and begin EU talks by promising to protect the rights of over 3 million EU citizens that reside in the country.
Introduced by the opposition Labour Party and Liberal Democrats, the amendment postpones the passing of May's plan and pushes back the earliest date she can set Brexit in motion to around March 13.
Government sources told British media that May would fight the new mandate once it reaches the lower house of Parliament, where the ruling Conservatives are in majority.
"We are disappointed the Lords (upper chamber) have chosen to amend a bill that the Commons (lower chamber) passed without amendment," a spokeswoman for the Brexit department said in a statement.
"Our position on EU nationals has repeatedly been made clear. We want to guarantee the rights of EU citizens who are already living in Britain, and the rights of British nationals living in other member states, as early as we can."
May has stated that she would protect EU nationals only if other European countries agree to do the same for UK nationals who are living abroad.
Labour defended the move, however, saying May needed to address the issue.
"Labour believe that EU nationals should not be used as bargaining chips in Brexit negotiations," said the party's Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer.
"There is a growing consensus that this must be resolved before Article 50 is triggered, and the Prime Minister is now increasingly isolated," he added.
The British media reported over the weekend that May was likely to revoke the right of European nationals to stay permanently in the UK after initiating Brexit.
Migrants who arrive after the initiation date in mid-March are expected to undergo a regime of post-Brexit restrictions instead, which involves a new visa process as well as limited access to benefits.
A government source told The Daily Telegraph that the decision was necessary because otherwise "half of Romania and Bulgaria" might come to Britain before Brexit.
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Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 3
By Azad Hasanli Trend:
Financial Monitoring Service of Azerbaijans Financial Market Supervisory Authority has added four persons to the list of those subject to international sanctions for their support of terrorism, said a report of the service posted on its website.
Nayif Salih Salim al-Qaysi, senior official and a financial supporter of the Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) militant Islamist group, Bassam Ahmad al-Hasri and Iyad Nazmi Salih Khalil, who are the leaders of the Al-Nusrah Front for the People of the Levant radical Islamist group, as well as Ghalib Abdullah al-Zaidi, the leader of the AQAP, have been added to the list.
This is the 5th change made to the list in 2017. The list is updated in accordance with the UN Security Councils decisions and the information received from regional organizations.
According to an order of the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan, the international list is approved and updated by the Financial Monitoring Service based on the information received from the countrys Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The service also makes the approved list available for the monitoring and supervisory bodies. In the case of detection of properties and money belonging to legal entities and individuals specified in the list, the monitoring and supervisory bodies must inform the Financial Monitoring Service of Azerbaijan without performing any operations with these properties and funds.
The Financial Monitoring Service of Azerbaijan was established Feb. 23, 2009.
The monitoring of the service covers activities of credit, insurance and reinsurance organizations, professional participants of the securities market, pawn shops, investment funds, transactions with precious metals and stones, as well as purchase of products from them.
The monitoring of the service also covers activities of non-governmental and religious organizations, organizers of lotteries, people providing services of the real estate sales, as well as lawyers, accountants, real estate transactions, client money, securities and property, client bank and deposit accounts.
EU Ambassadors Agree To Prolong Sanctions On Yanukovych, Associates
Rikard Jozwiak March 02, 2017
BRUSSELS -- European Union ambassadors have decided to prolong asset freezes imposed by Brussels against Ukraine's former President Viktor Yanukovych and 14 of his associates.
The decision on March 2 by the ambassadors sets up a vote by EU ministers who are expected to confirm the one-year extension when they meet in Brussels on March 3.
One politician who previously had been sanctioned by the EU, Yuriy Ivanyushchenko from Yanukovych's former party, the Party of the Regions, has been removed from the sanctions list that was approved by the EU ambassadors on March 2.
Ivanyushchenko recently was cleared of any wrongdoing by Ukraine's high court.
The EU sanctions were imposed shortly after the collapse of Yanukovych's government in February 2014 against people who, according to the EU, "were responsible for the misappropriation of Ukrainian state funds or for abuse of office causing a loss to Ukrainian public funds."
Apart from Yanukovych, the list includes his son Oleksandr Yanukovych, former Prime Ministers Mykola Azarov and Serhiy Arbuzov, and the head of Yanukovych's administration, Andriy Kliuiev.
Ukraine's former Prosecutor-General Viktor Pshonka, former Justice Minister Olena Lukash, and former Interior Minister Vitaliy Zakharchenko remain on the EU sanctions list.
The European Court of Justice in 2016 rejected challenges filed against the sanctions by Yanukovych and others on the list.
The court ruled that the reason for imposing sanctions against them was lawful.
Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/eu-ambassadors -agree-to-prolong-sanctions-yanukovych -associates/28343979.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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Contact Group Agrees to Guaranty Security of Donetsk Filtration Station
Sputnik News
20:30 02.03.2017
Martin Sajdik, a special representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine stated that the Trilateral Contact Group's (TCG) agreed on the need to halt attacks on the Donetsk water filtration station (DFS).
MOSCOW (Sputnik) The parties to the Trilateral Contact Group's (TCG) meeting in Minsk on Wednesday agreed on the need to halt attacks on the Donetsk water filtration station (DFS) and enable safe and secure access for the station's staff, repair teams and the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM), a special representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine said Thursday.
"Today particular attention was paid to the operation and safety of Donetsk Filtration Station (DFS). Based on the proposal of [Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine] Ambassador Ertugrul Apakan, the parties agreed on the following: no shelling or other attack on the DFS; demining of the DFS area and its access roads; security guarantees (facilitated by the Joint Control for Control and Co-ordination) in order to enable safe, secure and unfettered access for the DFS staff, repair teams and the SMM," Martin Sajdik said in a statement.
According to the OSCE envoy, the parties also appealed to the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine to facilitate the implementation of the disengagement of forces and hardware in the planned area of Stanytsia Luhanska on March 7.
"In addition, the sides reiterated their commitment to the full withdrawal of heavy weapons," Sajdik added.
The participants of the Contact Group's meeting and its working groups also discussed the humanitarian issues, noting a substantial discussion between Ukrainian authorities and representatives from Donetsk and Luhansk on the lists of detainees in relation to the conflict.
"The lists will now be verified by the sides. A mechanism to ensure that such decisions are respected will be developed with the support of a third party. Furthermore, a neutral organization will be involved to return personal documents to released detainees in the future," Sajdik noted.
The OSCE special representatives confirmed on Wednesday that the Trilateral Contact Group group's next meeting will take place on March 15.
Sputnik
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Bargain Basement Gunboats: Ukraine Hopes to Rebuild Navy Using Old NATO Ships
Sputnik News
14:37 02.03.2017(updated 15:14 02.03.2017)
Lacking the financial resources to beef up its Black Sea presence with new, domestically produced ships, the Ukrainian Navy is considering buying decommissioned NATO warships on the cheap instead. The only problem, experts say, is that even if NATO gave Ukraine its old ships for free, it would still cost more money than Kiev has to modernize them.
Speaking to Ukraine's Channel 5 earlier this week, Vice Admiral Ihor Voronchenko, commander of the Ukrainian Navy, confirmed that Ukraine was negotiating the purchase of decommissioned NATO vessels to reinforce its Black Sea fleet. A group of Ukrainian officials has recently returned from such negotiations, he said.
The senior officer noted that while he could not name the country or countries that Ukraine was negotiating with, he could say that one deal has already been negotiated. A second group of officers will embark for further negotiations this fall, Voronchenko added.
"Partner countries those that currently provide us with assistance, are considering this issue to be promising," the vice admiral said. Kiev, he added, is looking to get decommissioned ships whose age is satisfactory to the Navy, and "according to certain payment methods."
Voronchenko explained that Ukraine needed the ships because it is "a transit state, and we are obligedto ensure the peaceful navigation of all vessels in the Black Sea. We cannot fulfill the full spectrum of this work with only one minesweeper, the Henichesk, which we obtained."
Accordingly, he said, Kiev is now looking to get another mine-sweeper, and possibly other vessels, from NATO member countries.
Commenting on Voronchenko's remarks, Russian observers suggested that it was a sign of the sorry state of Ukraine's Navy, as well as the country's economic and industrial potential in general. After all, experts noted, less than a quarter century ago, before the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine was home to some of the largest and most advanced shipyards in the world, building everything from small frigates to aircraft carriers. Since 1991, independent Ukraine has built only a handful of small corvettes, anti-submarine vessels and patrol ships.
Furthermore, after the Soviet collapse, much of Ukraine's shipbuilding industry, concentrated in massive shipyards in places like the port city of Mykolaiv in southern Ukraine, remained dependent on cooperation with their Russian counterparts. However, since the downturn in Russian-Ukrainian relations in 2014, cooperation has declined significantly, with Russian shipbuilders turning to domestic producers for things like diesel engines and other advanced components.
Other experts suggested that even if Ukraine received the old NATO vessels for free, the money necessary to reequip the ships, retrain crews, and find the necessary spare parts would cost the Navy more than the ships are worth.
Speaking to the Russian news portal Economics Today, Boris Rozhin, editor-in-chief of the information-analytical center Kassad, suggested that Ukraine is looking for the new ships "purely for the sake of showing the flag and a [hypothetical] 'increase in capabilities' of the Navy."
"But buying a decommissioned ship is only half the battle," Rozhin explained. "One also needs to spend money on repairs, fine-tuning and upgrades, on retraining the crew to different standards, on reequipping the ship, and on incorporating it into a single fleet supply system."
Therefore, the expert noted that Voronchenko's announcement seems to be little more than a PR campaign. "Decommissioned ships cannot change the balance of forces in the Black Sea. It's worth recalling that Ukraine has not even been able to put the ships from Sevastopol handed over to them by Russia in order. Ukraine's fleet is financed from the leftovers [of the military budget] they'll buy a ship, show it off and then leave it docked; but its actual usefulness will be very small."
For his part, independent military expert Prokhor Tebin explained the scheme he believes is likely to be used for Ukraine's purchase of NATO vessels: "The US Congress allocates a conditional $300 million to Kiev. With these funds, Kiev receives not actual money, but old ships, the cost of which is then written off as assistance. The US has a lot of ships in storage all across the globe, and given the necessary political decision, it wouldn't be a problem to reactivate them and send them to Ukraine. But they would be delivered without weapons onboard."
Earlier this week, Voronchenko accused Russia of "looting" its leftover naval assets in Crimea, and using these vessels as donors for parts. Russia denied the accusations, pointing to the fact that its Black Sea Fleet is being equipped with the latest vessels, and that new parts are being used supply its vessels.
The vast majority of the Ukrainian ships left in Crimea after the peninsula's return to Russia (35 mostly small, mostly auxiliary, mostly obsolete vessels) were returned to Kiev in the summer of 2014 under an agreement between the two countries. The return of the other 16 minor ships was halted when Kiev failed to renew its ceasefire in the civil war in the east and most are now believed to be in storage at bases across the peninsula.
Following the Maidan coup and Crimea's return to Russia, the size of Ukraine's Navy was cut in half, with many of its officers and seamen leaving the Navy and volunteering to join the Russian Black Sea Fleet instead. The Navy's size dropped from about 15,000 to 6,500 men, and its center of operations moved from Crimea to Odessa. Many senior officers, including vice admirals and rear admirals, joined the Russian Navy.
Ukraine's Navy is currently equipped with one frigate, the Hetman Sahaydachniy, commissioned in 1993, one corvette, one landing cutter, and several dozen small patrol and missile boats, minesweepers, command, reconnaissance and support ships.
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Edge data centres will account for most of the telecom server market growth and is projected to reach US$14 billion by 2026 according to a new report from DellOro Group.
NORCROSS, Ga., March 02, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vega Biofuels, Inc. (OTCPink:VGPR) announced today that it has signed a five year Agreement to provide the Companys Biochar to legal cannabis growers in Alaska. The state of Alaska is the most recent state to legalize both medical and recreational cannabis use.
The Agreement with AK Provisions, Inc. located in Anchorage is Vegas largest single order for Biochar. Biochar is a highly absorbent specially designed charcoal-type product primarily used as a soil enhancement for the agricultural industry to significantly increase crop yields. Biochar offers a powerfully simple solution to some of todays most urgent environmental concerns. The production of Biochar for carbon sequestration in the soil is a carbon-negative process. Biochar is made from timber waste using torrefaction technology and the Companys patent pending manufacturing machine. When put back into the soil, biochar can stabilize the carbon in the soil for hundreds of years. The introduction of biochar into soil is not like applying fertilizer; it is the beginning of a process. Most of the benefit is achieved through microbes and fungi. They colonize its massive surface area and integrate into the char and the surrounding soil, dramatically increasing the soils ability to nurture plant growth and provide increased crop yield.
AK Provisions, Inc. plans to use Vegas Biochar in its own grow facilities as well as market the product to other growers throughout the state of Alaska through a reseller agreement with Vega Biofuels. The initial order is for 75 super sacks of Biochar. Each super sack holds approximately 400 pounds. Indoor grow facilities harvest their plants four times per year and start with new soil each time.
By the pound, Biochar is much more profitable to the Company than our Bio-coal energy product and will have a noticeable impact on the Companys bottom line. The products are similar but each has its own unique qualities, stated Michael K. Molen, Chairman/CEO of Vega Biofuels, Inc. We sell Bio-coal by the ton and Biochar is sold by the pound. Growers in other states are reporting significant increases in their crop yields when using Biochar as their soil enhancement. We plan to use the AK Provisions model as we increase our marketing efforts in other states that have recently approved growing legal cannabis. Our goal is to have the first shipment to Anchorage in time for AK Provisions first planting this spring.
For plants that require high potash and elevated pH, Biochar can be used as a soil amendment to significantly improve yield. Biochar can improve water quality, reduce soil emissions of greenhouse gases, reduce nutrient leaching, reduce soil acidity, and reduce irrigation and fertilizer requirements. Biochar was also found under certain circumstances to induce plant systemic responses to foliar fungal diseases and to improve plant responses to diseases caused by soil-borne pathogens. The various impacts of Biochar can be dependent on the properties of the Biochar, as well as the amount applied. Biochar impact may depend on regional conditions including soil type, soil condition (depleted or healthy), temperature, and humidity. Modest additions of Biochar to soil reduces nitrous oxide N2O emissions by up to 80% and eliminates methane emissions, which are both more potent greenhouse gases than CO2.
About Vega Biofuels, Inc. (OTCPink: VGPR):
Vega Biofuels, Inc. is a cutting-edge energy company that manufactures and markets a renewable energy product called Bio-Coal and a soil enhancement called Biochar, both made from timber waste using unique technology called torrefaction. Torrefaction is the treatment of biomass at high temperatures under low oxygen conditions. For more information, please visit our website at vegabiofuels.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the following words: "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "ongoing," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "will," "would," or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time the statements are made and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainty and other factors that may cause our results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements in this press release.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
Trend:
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has congratulated President of the Republic of Bulgaria Rumen Radev.
On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my most sincere congratulations to you and your country on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Bulgaria, said President Aliyev in his congratulatory letter.
Azerbaijan and Bulgaria are bound together by ties of traditional friendship and cooperation, he noted.
Dynamic development of our relations is conditioned by ever-expanding political, economic and cultural ties, and our mutually beneficial cooperation, said the president. I believe that friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria will continue to develop and strengthen in a comprehensive and consistent manner in the best interests of our peoples.
On this remarkable day, I wish you robust health, success in your activities and the friendly people of Bulgaria lasting peace and prosperity, added President Aliyev.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 3
By Seba Aghayeva Trend:
Position of Kyrgyzstan, which didnt accede to the political clauses in the declaration adopted at the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit in Islamabad, is absolutely incomprehensible, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hikmat Hajiyev told Trend.
In the declaration, the member states [of the ECO] openly declared that the existence of conflicts in the ECO space hinders economic development and cooperation. Besides, the declaration emphasizes that progress, peace and security in the region are directly related to sustainable development and stability, he said.
In general, the links between economic development, regional cooperation, peace and security is a principle accepted by the entire international community, and this is the basis of the UN concept of sustainable development.
Therefore, Kyrgyzstans position is absolutely incomprehensible, Hajiyev said, adding such a position raises a serious question which side is Kyrgyzstan on?
In the declaration, heads of the ECO member countries express concern that the unresolved conflicts in the ECO area, particularly the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, hamper economic development and realization of the regions potential to the full, as well as regional cooperation and that of a wider format.
Importance of the efforts to resolve these conflicts in line with norms and principles of international law, particularly taking into consideration the territorial integrity and sovereignty of countries, is stated in the declaration.
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.
Virginia Tech's 2017 spring commencement speaker will be Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, the university announced Thursday.
Sandberg, who oversees all of Facebook's business operations, has been with the company since 2008 and previously worked for Google and was chief of staff for United States Secretary of the Treasury Lawrence Summers.
She is also founder of Leanin.org, named for her 2013 bestseller book "Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead," which examines why women's progress in the workplace has stalled and offers solutions for the problem.
Her speech will be at Lane Stadium on May 12, with the commencement ceremony beginning at 8:30 a.m.
She will be introduced by Tech alumna Regina Dugan, who is vice president of engineering for Facebook. Before working at Facebook, Dugan was head of Google's "moonshot" team, which attempted to develop new technology.
Our graduating students will have an unbelievable opportunity to hear from two of the most influential and inspiring women leaders in American industry today, Tech President Timothy Sands said in a written statement. Sheryl Sandbergs many professional accomplishments in both the private and public sectors are remarkable and inspirational in their own right. In addition to that, she has had to face the devastating and sudden loss of her husband. Her open and honest public dialog on loss and resilience will surely inspire our graduates as they prepare for the next step in their lifes journey.
Tech estimates about 5,000 students will graduate during the ceremony.
Danville police on Wednesday released the identities of three of the multiple people arrested last week on West James Street.
Dwight Montel Harris was arrested along with Mariah Leslie Conway and four minors at an abandoned building on the 200 block of West James Street on Feb. 23 by members of the Danville Police Departments special investigations division, with assistance from the Virginia State Police. Conway's name had been released earlier.
A police department news release said open containers of alcohol were on the scene, and all six individuals were found in possession of firearms, some of which police believe were stolen.
Further investigation led Danville police to two more arrests later in the day, Danville Police Lt. Mike Wallace said. Lisa Rene Barley, 24, and Bernard Gene Francis, 46, were arrested after search warrants were served at 122 West James St.
Barley is charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute; Francis is charged with possession of cocaine and marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of a stolen firearm and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Conway, 20, was denied bond Monday in Danville General District Court on charges of possession or transport of a firearm after having been convicted of a violent felony and carrying a concealed weapon, second offense.
Harris, 20, is charged with possession of a stolen firearm and possession of a concealed firearm.
According to an email from Wallace earlier this week, the minors were charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, two counts of possession of a stolen firearm, two counts of possession of a firearm by a juvenile and littering.
Conways next court appearance is in Danville General District Court in April, while Barley, Francis and Harris appearances are set for May in the same court.
The cases against the juveniles will be handled in Danville Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
Livingston reports for the Danville Register & Bee.
CHATHAM Two new restaurants will spring to life in Chatham this month Le Petite Rebelle and the Chatham Public House.
Both are the handiwork of Danville entrepreneur Steve DelGiorno, who along with his management team will morph 33 N. Main St. into the restaurant and bakery after some renovations. The building originally was an auto parts store, and then an antique store before Ron and Suzanne Brown purchased it in 2009. Until Tuesday, it served as the ChathaMooCa restaurant.
The team plans to knock out parts of the walls that separated it from the lawyers office next door to allow people to walk between the restaurant and bakery, as well as a walkthrough for restaurant staff. They plan to upgrade the stove and fire suppression system in the current kitchen, and add bakery ovens.
DelGiorno said the only way hes able to pull it off is with his culinary team General Manager Derek Anderson, who will be in charge of the Public House; Catering and Marketing Manager Joe Scott, and master baker and chef Drew Bryant.
Bryant graduated from Le Cordon Bleu, and worked as the head chef and owner of Porter Bistro House in Nashville. Anderson served as the catering manager at Berry Hill Resort in South Boston, and trained at the Art Institute of Charlotte.
Half of the restaurant staff will be familiar faces for ChathaMooCa regulars, as DelGiorno is keeping all five ChathaMooCa staff members and plans to hire at least six more people.
The owners asked us to consider keeping the staff on, DelGiorno said. After meeting the staff, theyre friends with all of the customers. After getting to know them better and seeing how hard theyve been working, it was an easy decision.
Chatham Public House will start out serving just breakfast and lunch, though DelGiorno hopes to eventually have a weekly chef-inspired dinner with different themes. The Public House will offer beer and wine.
He plans to decorate the Public House with history-themed decor, and is having a 15-foot community table custom built using 125-year-old timbers from the American Tobacco Company in Reidsville, North Carolina.
Anderson said while the menu isnt set in stone, they plan to have dressed up, but not upscale food. Waffles, French toast, omelets and egg plates will be mainstays of the breakfast menu. Lunch will feature artisan sandwiches like paninis, soups and salads, featuring some of Le Petite Rebelles artisan breads. Both breakfast and lunch will offer some build-your-own sandwich options, as well as what Anderson and DelGiorno hope will be the best burger youve ever had.
The menu will include some unusual sides, like carrot salads and a different kind of coleslaw.
We want our food to be simple and delicious, but still different.
Le Petite Rebelle will be an artisan bakery storefront, run by Bryant, with space in the back for both private and semi-private dining. It will also reuse many of the familiar parts of ChathaMooCas display counters, though DelGiorno said he has been out buying antiques and other items in order to fill the space and make it their own.
The private rooms will have large screen televisions, in order to facilitate business meetings and dinners, similar to what The 616 Restaurant has in Danville.
Well be able to produce all of our artisan breads and sweet goods right here onsite, and then sell them on the bakery side. DelGiorno said.
Some of the products will be sold wholesale to other local establishments, Bryant said, adding some of the breads for the restaurant will be purchased elsewhere. Bryant plans to make some mainstays a really good baguette, some artisan breads, sweet and savory tarts, as well as homemade New York Bagels and his bacon cinnamon rolls.
What stays on the menu will depend on what the customers want, Bryant said.
If there is good local ingredients, then of course well buy it, DelGiorno said. We want to source the best ingredients we can at the best price. Therell be no frozen, out-of-the box stuff, I can tell you that.
The restaurant hours arent quite set yet, but both establishments will be open seven days per week. DelGiorno said the weekday schedule will be from 7 a.m. to 5ish p.m., Saturday hours will be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays will be 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the brunch crowd.
Its kind of hard to drive into Chatham and not fall in love with it, DelGiorno said. The environment of downtown Chatham is its just the quintessential Main Street. Its Americana at its best, and I think its an opportunity to bring this in and expand what were bringing into it.
DelGiorno hopes to open both establishments by mid-March, though he joked, Im the only one that thinks we can do it.
We have a lot of work to do, DelGiorno said. but were very excited.
Simkiss reports for the Danville Register & Bee.
NEW YORK (AP) McDonald's acknowledged that it lost 500 million customer transactions in the U.S. since 2012, and said it plans to use tempting value deals to help win people back.
The world's biggest burger chain said Wednesday during its investor day in Chicago that much of that business was lost after it did away with its Dollar Menu. It noted that an upside was that the majority of those customer visits were lost to other major fast-food chains, rather than to newer rivals.
"Those are the easiest customers to get back," said CEO Steve Easterbrook, who took over in March 2015 and has been working to revive the company's image.
McDonald's outlined its plans after having recorded its fourth straight year of declining guest counts at established U.S. locations in 2016, despite the fanfare over the rollout of an all-day breakfast menu. The company also trimmed its domestic store base for the second year in a row.
To get more customers in the door, McDonald's said it will also more aggressively market coffee and pastries and offer mobile order-and-pay by the end of the year. Easterbrook also noted the huge potential of delivery, and that 75 percent of the population in the company's top five markets including the U.S. living within three miles of a McDonald's.
Asked by an analyst why a person would order McDonald's once delivery is widely available in the restaurant industry, Easterbrook said the chain's expansive footprint gives it the advantage of being able to get food to people more quickly.
Richard Adams, a restaurant industry consultant and former McDonald's franchisee, noted that the restaurant industry has never been more competitive. While McDonald's may be able to spur more customer visits, he questioned whether the company will be able to get back to the level of total transactions it had four years ago.
"If you look at the eating out options, it's just so much more than 10 years ago," Adams said.
McDonald's is being pressured not just from other big fast-food players like Burger King and Taco Bell, but from newer rivals that largely emphasize freshness and taste, as well as the availability of food at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and supermarkets. So even if people are still going to McDonald's, they may be going less often than they used to. The NPD Group has said it expects overall customer traffic in the restaurant industry to remain "stalled" this year, as it was last year.
McDonald's, meanwhile, has touted the changes it is making to improve its core menu, such as cooking its Chicken McNuggets without artificial preservatives and testing fresh beef for some burgers. On Wednesday, the company noted that it wants to focus on serving "delicious, unpretentious food."
For the near future, the company plans to launch a limited-time offer in April for $1 sodas of any size. That may offer a quick fix for bringing customers into stores.
For 2019 and beyond, McDonald's said it expects to expand its operating margin from the high-20 percent range to the mid-40 percent range, as it sells more of its restaurants to franchisees and relies more heavily on royalty fees. By the end of this year, the company expects 93 percent of its restaurants to be franchised.
Other chains such as Burger King and Dunkin' Donuts are almost entirely franchised, while Starbucks and Chipotle own most their restaurants.
VANCOUVER, March 2, 2017 /CNW/ - Eco Oro Minerals Corp. ("Eco Oro" or the "Company") (TSX: EOM) announces that it has set April 25, 2017 as the date of the general meeting of shareholders in response to the requisition by Courtenay Wolfe and Harrington Global Opportunities Fund Ltd. (the "Dissidents"). The record date for determining shareholders entitled to vote at the meeting has been set as March 24, 2017.
The Company will provide further information about the meeting in a management information circular that will be mailed to shareholders and posted on SEDAR in due course.
Based on the substantial expressions of support from shareholders, the board of directors of Eco Oro (the "Board") remains confident that the Dissidents' attempt to take control of the Board will fail. The Board believes that the Dissidents' actions will only continue to force the Company to incur unnecessary expense and distraction.
Company Profile
Eco Oro Minerals Corp. is a publicly-traded precious metals exploration and development company with a portfolio of projects in Colombia. Eco Oro has been focused on its wholly-owned, multi-million ounce Angostura gold-silver deposit, located in northeastern Colombia.
The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release are "forward-looking" within the meaning of Canadian and United States securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Requisition and a potential shareholder meeting. Forward-looking statements are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "in the event", "if", "believes", "asserts", "position", "intends", "envisages", "assumes", "recommends", "estimates", "approximate", "projects", "potential", "indicate" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon the current belief, opinions and expectations of management that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant litigation, business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and other contingencies. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, uncertainties related to the Requisition and the calling of a shareholder meeting, as well as other risk factors set out under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Annual Information Form dated March 11, 2016, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.
RELATED LINKS
http://eco-oro.com
SOURCE Eco Oro Minerals Corp.
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - March 3, 2017) - Eloro Resources Ltd. (TSX VENTURE:ELO)(FRANKFURT:P2Q) ("Eloro") is pleased to announce it has signed a letter agreement (the "Agreement") with Cott Oil and Gas Limited ("Cott") (ASX:CMT), granting Cott an option to acquire up to a 25% interest in Eloro's wholly-owned La Victoria Gold Silver Project ("La Victoria" or the "Property"), by completing up to C$5 million in expenditures by July 31, 2018. The Property covers approximately 80.4 square kilometres and is held by a Peruvian-based Eloro subsidiary and is located in Huandoval District, Pallasca Province, Ancash Department, in the prolific North-Central Mineral Belt of Peru.
The Agreement
Under the terms of the Agreement, Cott can earn an initial 10% interest in the Property by expending C$2 million (exclusive of all applicable taxes) by or before October 30, 2017 ("Stage 1 Earn-in Period"), and a further 15% interest ("Stage 2 Earn-in Period") by expending an additional C$3 million (exclusive of all applicable taxes) by or before July 31, 2018. At the end of either the Stage 1 Earn-in Period or the Stage 2 Earn-in Period, a joint venture would be formed between Eloro and Cott on the basis of their respective interest in La Victoria on the typical terms for a joint venture, with Eloro being the operator and the typical dilution provisions.
Pursuant to the Agreement, Cott would grant Eloro a right of first refusal ("RFR") pursuant to which Cott would be obliged to give Eloro at least 60 days prior written notice of any proposed sale of any interest in the Property to a third party and Eloro would have the right to exercise its RFR within 30 days of receipt of such notice from Cott by matching the third party offer. Additionally, should Eloro propose to sell all or a majority of its interest in the Property to a third party, Eloro must first consult with Cott about the identity of the third party and the proposed terms of sale. If Eloro proceeds with the sale, Cott will be obliged to sell its interest to the third party on a pro rata basis in accordance with the terms of Eloro's sale to the third party.
Eloro and Cott have agreed to proceed to the execution and delivery of a definitive agreement ("Definitive Agreement"), incorporating the terms contained in the Agreement. The execution of the Definitive Agreement is subject to the satisfactory completion by Cott of its due diligence investigation of the Property and also subject to the approval by the Boards of Directors of Eloro and Cott, and in the case of Cott, the approval of the ASX Limited and if applicable, shareholders of Cott, and in the case of Eloro, the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.
Eloro Resources at the PDAC
Eloro will be participating at the PDAC 2017 convention in Toronto and invites you to visit us at Booth 2326 (Investors Exchange) in the South Building, Metro Toronto Convention Centre from March 5 - 8, 2017.
About Eloro Resources Ltd.
Eloro is an exploration and mine development company which holds a 100% undivided interest in the La Victoria Gold/Silver Project, located in the prolific North-Central Mineral Belt of Peru. The La Victoria Gold/Silver Project covers 80.4 square kilometers and is within 50 km of several large, low-cost producing gold mines, with three producers visible from the property. Infrastructure in the area is good with access to road, water, and electricity and is located at an altitude that ranges from 3,100m to 4,200m above sea level. Eloro also holds a portfolio of gold and base-metal properties in northern and western Quebec.
About Cott Oil and Gas Limited
Cott is an ASX publicly-listed company that sold its oil and gas interests in late 2016 and has since been looking to diversify into the mineral resource sector. The Chairman of Cott, Mr. Stephen Dennis, has been actively involved in the mining industry for over 30 years and is also Chairman of several listed resource companies in Australia. Mr. Dennis was for 8 years, up to 2015, Managing Director and CEO of CBH Resources Ltd., a significant producer of silver, lead and zinc, which is the Australian-based subsidiary of Toho Zinc Co. Ltd., a Japanese company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Information in this news release may contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information express, as at the date of this new release, the Corporation's plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations, or beliefs as to future events of results and are believed to be reasonable based on information currently available to the Corporation. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
For additional technical information on the La Victoria Project, the reader is referred to the NI 43-101 Technical Report on the La Victoria Au-Ag Property, Ancash, Peru filed under Eloro's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com).
Vancouver, BC (FSCwire) - Voltaic Minerals Corp. (TSXV: VLT, FSE: 2P6) (the Company or Voltaic) announces that a key condition precedent to entering into a 50/50 joint venture agreement with Equitorial Exploration Corp. (TSX: EXX) (Equitorial) for the Green Energy Project in Utah has not been fulfilled, and the joint venture agreement has been terminated. The agreement was announced in a Voltaic news release dated January 27, 2017.
As disclosed in our January 27, 2017 news release, Voltaic is working to finalize an exclusive right to use a lithium from brine extraction process for the Companys Green Energy Lithium Project in Utah. The process is still in the developmental stage. To date, Voltaic has been working to sign the definitive agreement with the inventors of the process, but some important points have not been agreed upon. However, Voltaic is still negotiating with the inventors and believes that an agreement permitting Voltaic to use the process is still very much achievable.
About Voltaic Minerals Corp.
Voltaic Minerals Corp. is a Vancouver-based Lithium exploration company which owns 100% of the Green Energy Lithium Property that encompasses 4,160 acres of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) claims and is located in Grand County, 15 km west of the city of Moab, Utah. Lithium and other minerals occur at the property in an over-saturated brine (40% minerals, 60% water) discovered during oil exploration when drill wells intercepted Clastic Bed #14 of the Paradox formation.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
VOLTAIC MINERALS CORP.
Darryl Jones
Darryl Jones
President & CEO
Tel: 604.681.1568
info@voltaicminerals.com
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking information which is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements in this release include that we will obtain a right to use the developmental stage lithium extraction process; and that we believe the process will be of benefit to Voltaic. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Risks that could change or prevent these statements from coming to fruition include that the Company the lithium extraction process owner may not agree on the final agreement terms, aspects or all of the process development may not be successful, the process may not be cost effective, the Company may not raise sufficient funds to
carry out our plans, costs for mining and processing may increase; increased capital costs; the timing and content of upcoming work programs; geological interpretations based on current data may change with more detailed information; potential process methods and mineral recoveries assumption based on limited test work and by comparison to what are considered analogous deposits with further test work may not be comparable or feasible; the availability of labour, equipment and markets for the products produced; and despite the current expected viability of the project, that the minerals on our property cannot be economically mined, or that the required permits to build and operate the envisaged project cannot be obtained. We may be unsuccessful in completing our private placement and therefore unable to use fund as intended. The forward-looking information contained herein is given as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.
To view this press release as a PDF file, click onto the following link:public://news_release_pdf/voltaic03032017.pdfSource: Voltaic Minerals Corp. (TSX Venture:VLT, FWB:2P61)
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Copyright 2017 Filing Services Canada Inc.
Toronto, March 3, 2017 - Alturas Minerals Corp (TSXV:ALT) ("Alturas") is pleased to announce that Alturas has entered into a definitive agreement (the "Agreement") with Compania Minera Milpo S.A.A. ("Milpo"), a member of the Brazilian international Votorantim Group, to option the Alturas' 100% owned, 4,675 hectare, zinc-gold-copper-rare earth elements project Huajoto property mining concessions, located 22 kilometers northwest of the historical mining town of Huancavelica in Central Peru.
Miguel Cardozo, President and CEO of Alturas commented: "The Company welcomes this definitive agreement with Milpo, a major international mining house and one of Peru's principal mineral producers, in order to continue the exploration and development of its Huajoto project, which had been partially drilled by Alturas with very encouraging zinc-rare earth mineralized intercepts. This agreement is consistent with our ongoing strategy to share exploration and development expense and risk at some of our key projects".
Under the terms of the Agreement dated on January 18th, 2017, Alturas grants Milpo:
1.A conditional 3-year option (the "Option") to acquire 80% of the Huajoto concessions for a total payment of US$2 million (the "Acquisition Price"). The Option period will start as soon as Milpo obtains all authorizations, permits and licenses required to initiate its exploration activities.
2.A mining assignment of the concessions (the "Assignment"), for Milpo to execute its exploration activities. The Assignment starts on the date of execution of the Agreement (the "Effective Date") and will last until the Option terminates.
In addition, in order to exercise the Option and acquire a participating interests ("Interest") for 80% of the Huajoto concessions, Milpo should advance the project and prepare within the 3-year period corresponding to the Option a 43-101-compliant Preliminary Economic Assessment (Scoping Study) as defined by the Canadian Securities Administration.
During the Assignment period, Milpo will make annual cash payments of US$200,000 each out of which Alturas agrees to cover Alturas?s commitments with previous owners of the properties and also to pay for the properties? annual fees, the balance being considered as payments in advance of the Acquisition Price.
Upon Milpo having completed its requirements to earn an 80% interest in the Huajoto Project, the parties shall form a customary 80:20 joint venture vehicle ("Newco") with the parties contributing pro-rata to all expenses and investments needed for the development of the project. In case any of the parties dilutes its interest to less than 10%, it will be converted to a 1% net smelter royalty (NSR).
About the Huajoto Zinc-Gold-Copper-Rare Earth Element project
The Huajoto Project is situated 22 kilometers northwest of the historical mining town of Huancavelica in Central Peru. The project is comprised of eight contiguous mineral concessions totaling 3,700 hectares. The property includes over 7.0 x 5.0 kilometers of strong hydrothermal alteration centered on a Late Tertiary felsic eruptive center. The system is the northernmost of several alteration centers distributed along a well-defined, NNW-SSE striking, +20 kilometer long belt of skarn, polymetallic and epithermal deposits.
Geologically, the Huajoto Volcanic Complex (HVC) is a sill and flow complex of felsic to intermediate composition cutting the Mesozoic Pucara limestone dominated basement. Small diatreme breccia pipes attest to explosive felsic eruptive activity. Airfall tuffs appear to represent a synchronous or possibly later pyroclastic phase. Faulting is complex and intense, probably reflecting strong extension in the roof of a sub-circular, sub-volcanic/plutonic complex, which measures around 10 x 10 kilometers in dimension.
There are surface and drilling reports of two different styles of mineralization on the Huajoto Property: high-sulfidation epithermal gold mineralization (La Virgen target) that may represent a mineralized lithocap overlying a porphyry-related mineralization center and zinc-skarn and -replacement (Cathy-Pablo target) in the peripheral volcanic and sedimentary sequence.
Alturas initiated an intensive surface exploration program in August 2007 followed up by a first phase drilling campaign of these targets comprising 2,501 meters that was executed in the third quarter of 2008.
Best results reported were from drill hole JOT-08-01, which intersected a near surface 106.5 meter thick polymetallic mineralized package between 11.5 and 118.0 meters averaged 1.64% zinc and 0.09% copper. This package includes an upper section of 48.5 meters assaying 2.24% zinc and 0.13% copper from 11.5 to 60.0 meters and a lower section of 17.0 meters assaying 3.26% zinc and 0.18% copper from 101.0 to 118.0 meters. Within these two sections, higher grade intervals of 5.80 meters assaying 3.48% zinc and 0.18% copper, and 4.40 meters assaying 7.28% zinc and 0.37% copper, were encountered. Alturas has recognized that strongly anomalous rare earth element (REE) values exist within the alkaline volcanic rocks hosting the zinc mineralization.
For further information on the Huajoto project, please refer to Alturas' 43-101 report at www.sedar.com prepared by Dr. Paul Pearson in 2010 as Alturas's designated Qualified Person for the supervision of exploration of the project.
About Milpo
Compania Minera Milpo S.A.A. is part of Votorantim Metais, the corporation's metals and mining division of Votorantim Group, a solid global industrial conglomerate which has more than 90 years of history and presence in key economic sectors, in more than 20 countries. Milpo is one producer of zinc, copper, silver and lead in Peru, developing and operating three mining units: Cerro Lindo, El Porvenir and Atacocha.
About Alturas Minerals
Alturas is a Canadian corporation, and is the indirect parent of the Peruvian company, Alturas Minerals S.A. ("Alturas Peru") and of the Chilean company, Alturas Chile Limitada ("Alturas Chile"). Alturas Peru has been exploring various mineral projects in Peru since January 2004 and has three mineral exploration projects in drilling-stage, including the Utupara, Sombrero and Huajoto projects. Alturas also entered into a transfer agreement on its Pampa Colorada property in northern Peru with Origen Group S.A.C. but maintains royalty rights and a claw back clause on 60-100% of the mining rights under certain conditions (see press release dated January 5th, 2012). In 2014, Alturas interrupted its exploration activities in Chile and is focused in maintaining its exploration projects in Peru.
For further information, please visit the Company's website at www.alturasminerals.com or contact Alturas at:
Phone: + 51-1- 476-1410 (Lima, Peru)
+ 1-416-363-4900 (Toronto, Canada)
Email: investor@alturasminerals.com
The TSX Venture Exchange and the Bolsa de Valores de Lima do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Cautionary Language and Forward Looking Statements
This press release may contain "forward-looking statements", which are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Investors are cautioned that such statements are not guarantees of future performance and results. Risks and uncertainties about the Company's business are more fully discussed in the Company's disclosure documents filed from time to time with the Canadian securities authorities.
Copyright (c) 2017 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
(AIM Ticker: LND.L)
LONDON, March 3, 2017 /CNW/ - Landore Resources Ltd. (AIM:LND) ("Landore Resources" or "the Company") is pleased to announce it has raised gross proceeds of approximately C$3.3 million (2 million) through a subscription of 74,075,000 new ordinary shares of no par value in the Company ("New Ordinary Shares") at a price of 2.7 pence per New Ordinary Share (the "Issue Price") (the "Subscription").
The Issue Price represents a discount of approximately 7.5 per cent. to the closing middle market price of 2.92 pence per ordinary share on 2 March 2017, being the last trading day prior to this announcement and the New Ordinary Shares represent approximately 9.5 per cent. of the enlarged issued share capital (as enlarged by the New Ordinary Shares).
The net proceeds of the Subscription will, albeit on a more focused basis, be used by the Company to finance drilling and exploration at the BAM East Gold Deposit and working capital, as outlined in the announcement made by the Company on 17 February 2017.
As announced on 17 February 2017, the Company had intended to raise between 3 million to 4.5 million. However, in consultation with existing and potential shareholders it was agreed that a smaller fundraise at the current time maximises shareholder value.
Changes in Directors' disclosable interests pursuant to the Subscription are as set out below.
Director New Ordinary Shares subscribed Shareholding immediately following Admission Percentage of enlarged issued share capital William Humphries 4,580,000 68,894,119 8.8% Richard Prickett 1,000,000 12,144,876 1.6% Helen Green 740,000 2,357,583 0.3%
Commenting on today's announcement, Bill Humphries, Chief Executive of Landore Resources, said:
"The Directors and Management are delighted with the strong support for this fundraise by both existing and new Investors.
Drilling is scheduled to commence in early April on the BAM East Gold deposit aimed at upgrading and expanding the newly defined resource with further exploration along the highly prospective Junior Lake Shear. Shareholders can look forward to regular progress reports."
Further details on the Subscription
The Subscription is conditional on admission of the New Ordinary Shares to trading on AIM ("Admission"). The New Ordinary Shares will be fully paid and will rank pari passu in all respects with the Company's existing ordinary shares of no par value ("Ordinary Shares"). Application will be made to the London Stock Exchange for Admission. It is expected that Admission of the New Ordinary Shares will become effective and that dealings in such New Ordinary Shares will commence at 8.00 a.m. on 13 March 2017. Following Admission of the New Ordinary Shares the Company's issued share capital will consist of 781,563,001 Ordinary Shares with voting rights. Landore Resources does not hold any Ordinary Shares in treasury.
The aforementioned figure of 781,563,001 Ordinary Shares may be used by shareholders in the Company as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, Landore Resources under the Financial Service Authority's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.
Related Party Transactions
As Directors of the Company, the participation of William Humphries, Richard Prickett and Helen Green in the Subscription (the "Director Subscription") is deemed to be a related party transaction pursuant to Rule 13 of the AIM Rules for Companies.
In addition, Arconas International Limited and Taheh International Holdings, which currently have interests in the Company of 13.9 per cent. and 13.4 per cent respectively, have subscribed for 5,555,000 New Ordinary Shares and 9,630,000 New Ordinary Shares respectively pursuant to the Subscription (the "Shareholder Subscription"), which, as Substantial Shareholders in the Company, are also deemed to be related party transactions pursuant to Rule 13 of the AIM Rules for Companies.
Charles Wilkinson, Independent Director, having consulted with the Company's Nominated Adviser, Strand Hanson Limited, considers that the terms of the Director Subscription and the Shareholder Subscription are fair and reasonable insofar as the Company's shareholders are concerned.
About Landore Resources
Landore Resources is an exploration company that seeks to grow shareholder value through the acquisition, exploration and development of precious and base metal projects in eastern Canada. The Company is primarily focused on the development of the Junior Lake Project. Landore Resources has mineral rights to 5 properties in eastern Canada. The Company is headquartered in Guernsey, with an exploration office located in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
This announcement contains inside information as defined in Article 7 of the Market Abuse Regulation No 596/2014.
SOURCE Landore Resources Ltd.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
By Elchin Mehdiyev Trend:
More than 2,000 civilians were killed as a result of 373 terrorism acts committed by Armenians in Azerbaijan, said Head of the Azerbaijans State Security Service Lieutenant-General Madat Guliyev.
He made the remarks addressing the conference titled The role of the youth in fight against terrorism, extremism and radicalism in Baku on March 3.
Guliyev noted that Azerbaijan faced the consequences of terror a few centuries ago.
Even in the previous century, Armenian terrorists committed terrorist acts against Azerbaijan. Armenian terror regained a wide scope in 1980s. Twenty percent of Azerbaijani territories were occupied, he said.
The head of the State Security Service emphasized that Azerbaijan is in a difficult geopolitical environment, noted Guliyev adding that however, Azerbaijan is the most stable country not only in the South Caucasus.
This became possible thanks to the policy, the foundation of which was laid by great leader Heydar Aliyev. Today the political course, the foundation of which was laid by the national leader, is being successfully continued by President Ilham Aliyev by considering the requirements of modern times, stated Guliyev.
He added that thanks to the policy of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has taken a worthy place in the international security system, by gaining the status of a reliable partner.
UTSA will play five games in three days this weekend at the Texas A&M Invitational, March 3-5, at the Aggie Softball Complex in College Station.The Roadrunners (6-9) will take on Prairie View A&M (1-11) at 12:15 p.m. on Friday before a 3 p.m. tilt against No. 5 Texas A&M (15-1). Saturday will see UTSA face the Panthers again at 10 a.m. and that will be followed by a 5:15 p.m. matchup with Georgetown (3-11). The Roadrunners will conclude play at the tournament at 12:15 p.m. on Sunday against the Aggies.UTSA will look to bounce back from a 3-2 setback on Wednesday night against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. The Roadrunners erased a 2-0 deficit with a two-run bottom of the fifth, but the Islanders picked up an unearned run behind two UTSA errors to take the 3-2 victory.went 2-for-4 on Wednesday night and drove in a run with the first double of her collegiate career. The freshman ranks second on the team with a .386 batting average and she has stolen nine bases in as many attempts to lead the squad.The Roadrunners' offense continues to rank among the best in Conference USA as the team ranks in the league's top five in 10 different offensive categories.sits second in C-USA with 18 RBIs, while her five homers rank third.UTSA leads the all-time series against Prairie View A&M, 3-0, while Texas A&M owns a 33-6 advantage against the Roadrunners. Meanwhile, UTSA and Georgetown will meet for the first time this weekend.
For students whose families can't afford to help pay for college, Florida International University is making a promise: The school will pick up the tab.FIU has launched a new program guaranteeing incoming freshmen that if their parents can't help with tuition, the university will cover any gaps in financial aid through four years of college.The goal of the program, dubbed the Golden Promise, is to help low-income students earn a college degree without going into debt, FIU said in a statement. To qualify, students have to be Florida residents whose expected family contribution on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is listed as zero. In most cases, this means their family makes less than $33,000 a year, according to the university."FIU's Golden Promise removes economic barriers for students who are academically qualified and ready to work hard at FIU," FIU President Mark Rosenberg said in a statement. "We want them to be successful and graduate in four years."The university predicts that 1,200 freshmen will qualify for the program in 2017.Miami Dade College has a similar program, called the American Dream Scholarship, that covers tuition costs for the first two years that are not covered by financial aid and other scholarships. Students have to graduate from high school or get a GED in Miami-Dade County and meet certain academic requirements to qualify.Even when they don't cover room and board, programs like these can make college more accessible for low-income students, said Troy Miller, the associate director for Research and Policy at the Florida College Access Network, a nonpartisan research and advocacy organization."Money should never be the reason why students decide not to go to college," he said. "For students throughout the state, especially students in South Florida, knowing they have a major university right in their backyard that will meet their needs is very powerful."Nationwide, other universities have made similar promises to students with financial need. Stanford University announced in 2015 that students whose parents earn less than $65,000 a year would not have to pay anything for tuition, room or board, for example.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
By Anvar Mammadov Trend:
Azerbaijan needs to accelerate the restructuring of the banking sector, Chief of the International Monetary Funds (IMF) Mission in Azerbaijan Mohammed El Qorchi, who is on a visit in Baku, said in an interview with Trend.
He noted that the sooner the banking sector is stabilized, the sooner the situation will be normalized in the economy as a whole.
"The restructuring has been going on for some time and the authorities, I believe, have taken it seriously, especially recently with the establishment of FIMSA [Financial Market Supervisory Authority]," noted El Qorchi.
"Our recommendation is that it is important to bring the banking sector to a normal and more stable situation," he said, adding that instability in the banking sector has implications on many things, including the confidence in the economy and in the exchange market.
Chief of the IMF mission said that despite the difficult situation in the banking sector of Azerbaijan, the country's government was able to achieve success in the issue of banks restructuring.
"The situation in the banking sector is challenging. As you know, the authorities have been restructuring the banking sector for some time. They were dealing with IBA [International Bank of Azerbaijan], the biggest bank, but also with other banks," he noted.
During the past year, 11 banks were closed in the country and the government is working diligently to restructure other banks that need support or may not be viable, said El Qorchi.
"So, this time we feel that the authorities are making progress," he said, adding that the Azerbaijani authorities have informed the IMF mission that they have a good plan and this year they will complete the banking sectors restructuring.
"And that involves not only the IBA, but also other small banks," added El Qorchi.
He also noted that during the visit, the IMF mission will have a meeting with officials of Azerbaijans leading banks, where the sides will discuss the current banking sector restructuring.
Firstly, the IMF mission wants to understand exactly the situation in the market, main challenges being faced by banks, and how they prepare themselves for the restructuring, said El Qorchi.
Meanwhile, he added, the mission wants to get acquainted with the banks plans, their recommendations for the IMF and monetary authorities, discuss with them the ongoing reform and hear their views.
The IMF missions visit to Azerbaijan will last until the end of this week.
The mission has already had meetings in Azerbaijans Economy Ministry, Finance Ministry, Central Bank (CBA), State Oil Fund (SOFAZ) and Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FIMSA).
The IMF mission is also expected to have meetings in Azerbaijans Ministry of Taxes, Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population, State Oil Company (SOCAR), State Statistics Committee, as well as with leading commercial banks of the country.
The previous IMF mission led by Mohammed El Qorchi visited Azerbaijan in May-June 2016. During the visit, the sides discussed economic processes in Azerbaijan and reforms being conducted in the country.
The International Monetary Fund opened its office in Baku in 1992.
'Who do you tax?'
'A Herculean task'
Efforts to oust justices
Replacing block grants
Kansas school funding is inadequate and unconstitutional, shortchanging at least a fourth of the state's public school students, the Kansas Supreme Court ruled Thursday.The court sided unanimously with school districts that complained that Gov. Sam Brownback's block grant funding system for schools underfunded their operations.It gave lawmakers until June 30 to craft a new school finance formula that meets constitutional funding requirements or potentially face statewide school closures.The court said current funding isn't enough to ensure that all students receive access to the suitable education the state Constitution mandates the Legislature to provide."Plaintiffs (the school districts) have shown through the evidence from trial -- and through updated results on standardized testing since then -- that not only is the State failing to provide approximately one-fourth of all its public school K-12 students with the basic skills of both reading and math, but that it is also leaving behind significant groups of harder-to-educate students," the ruling said.Although the court struck down Brownback's block-grant concept, the governor pointed to the education system and the previous finance formula for struggling schools and students."The Kansas Supreme Court correctly observes that our education system has failed to provide a suitable education for the lowest performing 25 percent of students," Brownback said in a statement issued six hours after the ruling. "The old funding formula failed our students, particularly those that struggle most. The new funding system must right this wrong."Brownback called for "transformative educational reform" and for the Legislature to pass a funding system that "puts students first."In his annual state of the state speech in January, he proposed expanding an existing program of tax breaks for businesses and individuals who fund scholarships for students to attend private and religious schools.Meeting the court's mandate will make it more difficult for state lawmakers to fix projected budget deficits of about $1 billion for the next two and a half years.John Robb, a lawyer representing Wichita and other plaintiff districts, said adopting a new formula that better serves students' needs could cost between $431 million and $893 million, depending where lawmakers set the base state aid per pupil."The lawsuit wasn't about the (previous) formula being bad. The lawsuit was about how the formula wasn't funded," Robb said. "Today the Supreme Court has held exactly that. ... The court says kids aren't getting what they're due."Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, whose office defended the state and lost the case, called on the Legislature to enact a new formula and leave "ample time" for the Supreme Court to review it before the June 30 deadline."The State's interest in bringing this litigation to an end can best be met by a bold legislative response, enacted swiftly, squarely targeting the constitutional defects the court identified," Schmidt said in a statement. "Today's ruling implies that the main focus needs to be on better educating those kids who are performing most poorly."He advised the Legislature to "show its work" to demonstrate how its actions will help students "meet or exceed performance standards adopted by the Supreme Court."The case that led to the Supreme Court decision is called Gannon v. Kansas and began in November 2010. It was filed by four school districts -- Wichita, Hutchinson, Kansas City and Dodge City -- but the decision applies to all school districts."We've lost a whole generation of kids with inadequate funding, and hopefully this will communicate to the state how important it is not to lose a single kid, and that we need to do better than what we've done," said State Sen. Lynn Rogers, D-Wichita, who also serves on the Wichita school board.Rep. Brenda Landwehr, R-Wichita and a member of the House Education Budget Committee, said the Legislature will probably have to raise about $1 billion a year either through tax increases or cuts in other services -- or a combination -- to cover the court-ordered increase for schools."So who do you you tax?" Landwehr said. "You tax business too much and they don't have to stay in Kansas." The tax plan recently approved by the Legislature, but vetoed by the governor, also would have put a substantial burden on the middle class, she said.Landwehr, who is chairwoman of the Social Services Budget Committee, said she worries that lawmakers might look to make further cuts there, although those budgets are already getting trimmed.Medicaid reimbursements for hospitals and doctors and mental-health programs are already being cut by about 4 to 4.5 percent, she said."Do you just fund the schools and you don't fund those other services, only for them (the school districts) to come back and sue us again in a few years?" Landwehr said.Landwehr said she's looking into the possibility of relieving school districts of some of their support costs in areas such as medical and psychological services, with those services to be provided by community health and mental-health departments.House Minority Leader Jim Ward, D-Wichita, called Thursday's ruling "a big victory for schoolkids across Kansas" and said the Legislature should act quickly -- on Monday or earlier -- to begin crafting a new finance formula. Lawmakers are on a break this week."For the Legislature it creates a Herculean task because historically, school finance formulas have taken a couple years to draft in a way that gets it right," Ward said.Any new formula should recognize that "all students are entitled to a public education, all kids aren't the same and some kids cost more than others," he said.He blasted Brownback's block grant system, which he said was "drafted in a back room" and rushed to approval two years ago."I don't think there's any support for that kind of process in this year's Legislature, so I hope we don't waste time proving that," Ward said.Thursday's ruling comes after a special three-judge school finance court ruled against the state and for the school districts. The state appealed to the Supreme Court.Last year, the Supreme Court upheld part of the districts' case and agreed that school funding was unfairly divided among wealthy and poor districts. It ordered the state to fix that or face a shutdown of schools on July 1. Lawmakers met in a special session in June and shifted $38 million to comply with the court order.Lawmakers also turned aside an effort to pass a constitutional amendment stripping the court of its authority over school finance and leaving all school funding decisions to the Legislature and governor.That kept the schools open for another school year, while justices contemplated the second part of the "suitable" equation, whether the state was providing enough money overall.That's the "adequacy" portion of the litigation decided Thursday.School finance has been a highly controversial issue in the state for the past 20 years or more, repeatedly ping-ponging back and forth to the courts and influencing state politics.After last year's special session, groups aligned with the governor tried to oust four Supreme Court justices who had sided with the school districts. That would have slowed the case and given the governor the chance to appoint a court majority that might see things his way.But voters opted in November to retain all the justices who were targeted -- Chief Justice Lawton Nuss and associate justices Marla J. Luckert, Carol Beier and Dan Biles.Then Democrats and moderate Republicans, running on pro-school platforms, defeated or replaced about two dozen Brownback-allied legislators.Even without the Supreme Court ruling, lawmakers would have no choice but to deal with school funding in the current legislative session.Brownback and his allies in the Legislature successfully repealed the state's school finance formula in 2015, replacing it with two years of "block grants." That essentially froze funding at 2014 levels while loosening some rules on how districts can spend their state aid.The idea was the Legislature would have two years to develop a new finance formula.Those two years are up this year, meaning that the Legislature has to come up with a new formula for funding schools this year or risk shutting down the education system for lack of spending authority.Unless lawmakers and Brownback restore the former school funding formula, which the Supreme Court had already approved as constitutional, whatever plan emerges from the Legislature is likely to face another round of litigation.Thus far, Brownback remains staunchly opposed to reinstating the previous school-finance formula.
No one who works in health care would dispute the need to keep hospital patients safe. But theres plenty of debate over how best to achieve that and over whether the federal approach is the right one, particularly for hospitals that treat the most vulnerable Americans.In December, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) handed down its list of hospitals that would be penalized in the current fiscal year for patient safety violations. In all, 769 hospitals were dinged for preventable conditions such as blood clots, falls and the presence of antibiotic-resistant germs. The hospitals will have 1 percent of their payments from CMS cut, which for a large hospital can exceed a million dollars.CMS has another program with even stiffer punishments, penalizing hospitals that have whats considered an excessive number of readmissions within 30 days of hospitalization. In August, CMS announced that nearly 2,600 hospitals would have up to 3 percent of their reimbursements withheld this fiscal year.The penalities handed down by CMS are part of the Affordable Care Act. Theyre meant to motivate hospitals to correct procedures so as to avoid patient safety violations. But the problem with these penalities, some health policy experts say, is that they dont take into account the particular challenges that individual hospitals face. Most of the penalized hospitals take care of the poorest and sickest, says Ashish Jha, a professor at Harvard University who focuses on patient safety. Jha and others argue that CMS should add a risk adjustment factor. Until then, safety-net and academic-centered hospitals will continue to get slapped with the most penalties.We all want patients to be healthy once they leave, but we need to understand that patients in certain areas have a harder time achieving proper health, adds Michael Consuelos, vice president for clinical integration at the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania. For a struggling rural hospital, reduced payments from CMS can equal a death spiral, he says.Providers say that the more thorough reporting required under the CMS patient safety programs also has been a major administrative burden. Weve spent hundreds of thousands of dollars and an enormous amount of time managing the process, says Saul Weingart, chief medical officer at Tufts Medical Center and a National Patient Safety Foundation board member. Its a lot of combing over doctors notes, clarifying things written down, trying to determine if its clinically significant.Adding to the hospitals exasperation is the fact that there is little information about whether the penalties have actually improved health outcomes. We have no real idea if patient safety has gotten better because none of that data has been subject to peer review, says Jha. We do know that readmissions have fallen, but the problem with that metric is a good chunk of readmissions are often necessary.Still, hospitals say they do put a lot of effort into addressing issues theyre penalized for. The Pennsylvania association, like many state hospital groups, works to facilitate data sharing among hospitals, Consuelos says. Organizations know what they scored low on, and they do try to really focus in on those areas. And, Tufts Weingart notes, because the hospital star ratings that CMS releases every year are partially tied to the penalty programs, hospital executives feel it can be a reputational issue.All of this is playing out, of course, at a time when the future of the Affordable Care Act and the mandates it imposes are very much up in the air in Washington. These patient safety programs, says Jha, require a lot of subtlety. Thats a quality that few would associate with the debate over the federal health law.
Oil State Woes
Securing Secure Choice
Still No Fiscal Clarity From Trump
Oklahoma's credit rating was downgraded this week, making it the third oil state in just one month to suffer such a blow. S&P Global Ratings pushed Oklahoma's rating down to AA, citing the state's chronically weak revenue. The downgrade comes as news broke this week that the state is facing a nearly $900 million shortfall."Collectively the state's financial position has deteriorated to a point that further precludes the state from building up reserves in subsequent fiscal years, says S&P credit analyst Oscar Padilla, who adds the state is now more vulnerable to regional or national economic weakness.This is Oklahoma's third consecutive year with a deficit, and the second straight year of a so-called revenue failure, when collections fall more than 5 percent below estimates.The action follows downgrades in two other oil states last month: Moodys Investors Service downgraded West Virginia and Louisiana one notch each. States that rely on oil and energy for significant portions of their economy have had to grapple with revenue shortfalls since the price of oil dropped drastically a year and a half ago.Most oil states dipped into a recession last year and it's taken a toll on ratings. Alaska was downgraded by all three ratings agencies, New Mexico by Moodys and S&P, North Dakota by S&P and West Virginia by Fitch Ratings and S&P. Only Texas and Wyoming have kept their credit ratings intact since prices dropped. That's because Texas has a fairly diversified economy while Wyoming is more reliant on coal mining than oil extraction.Solving these revenue gaps will be difficult. Governors in these red states have proposed sales tax increases to help close the gap. But any tax increase in a conservative state faces long odds. Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin, for instance, is proposing an expansion of the states sales tax. Only last year, however, voters rejected a small sales tax increase to help end the states teacher shortage crisis.With Congress poised to derail state programs that would ensure all workers have access to a pre-tax retirement savings plan, state lawmakers are talking backup plans.The U.S. House resolution in question would overturn a Department of Labor rule that gave states the OK to create private-sector savings programs for small businesses. The House passed it last month and the Senate could take up the resolution as early as today.In California, officials are considering modifying their Secure Choice program to fit a previous Labor Department rule from 1975. Among other changes, that would mean dropping a feature that automatically enrolls workers into the program. Research shows that automatically enrolling workers makes it 15 times more likely employees will save.At a National Institute for Retirement Security conference this week in Washington, D.C., retirement attorney Michael P. Kreps said the Labor Department's rule allowing Secure Choice programs created certainty for the more than 20 states and cities creating a program or considering one. Overturning that would essentially "take the thumb off the scale." That could have a chilling effect on places still considering a program.Liberal-leaning states are farther along in the Secure Choice process, but the issue is bipartisan. A letter signed by 19 Republican and Democrat finance officials is asking the Senate to reject the House measure.Still, the House measure has largely been along partisan lines. Its also in keeping with prior Republican efforts to insert federal control into state public pension plans. Particularly telling is that House lawmakers have cited severely underfunded pension plans in warning that Secure Choice might somehow put taxpayers on the hook to foot the bill. In reality, the plans are independently managed and funded through fees.President Trump released details about his upcoming budget proposal and delivered his first joint address to Congress this week, but state and local governments are still largely in the dark about their fiscal futures.While the speech announced a few new programs targeting illegal immigrants, it did little to flesh out the specifics of the president's domestic policy agenda.And on Monday, the administration announced budget plan details that elicited more questions than answers. Trump plans to take $54 billion from discretionary spending -- where states get most of their federal aid -- and move it into defense spending. (Medicaid would be exempt from reductions. However, the president has expressed a desire to change it into a block grant program, which leaves the door open for cuts.)Meanwhile, Fitch reports the largest single discretionary program potentially subject to cuts is federal highway aid ($40 billion). But given Trumps pledge to boost infrastructure investment through public and private capital, its hard to imagine that happening with major cuts in highway funding. Absent highway aid cuts, Fitch said, it remains unclear how the president's budget plan would affect state and local governments.For states and locals, its unnerving to set budgets and move forward on significant policy when theres no clear idea of how changes in Washington could potentially affect federal aid. Add to that the fact that many states are grappling with budget shortfallsmany experts are expecting an economic slowdown in the next two years , and its an incredibly uncertain time for government budgets.
On Wednesday, in the afternoon, at Government House, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC and Mrs Kaye de Jersey received His Excellency Mr Kyoung-ha Woo, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Australia and Dr Jinah Lee Woo.
Following, at Government House, the Governor and Mrs de Jersey hosted a reception in support of The Lady Musgrave Trust where His Excellency addressed guests.
In the evening, at Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, the Governor attended a reception celebrating the 116th birthday of the Australian Army.
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GIS - 03 March, 2017: Professors Francois Sztark and Dominique Dallay from the University of Bordeaux paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Health and Quality of Life, Dr Anwar Husnoo in his office in Port Louis yesterday. The Executive Director of the Mauritius Institute of Health (MIH), Dr Geeta Daby was also present. Professors Francois Sztark and Dominique Dallay from the University of Bordeaux paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Health and Quality of Life, Dr Anwar Husnoo in his office in Port Louis yesterday. The Executive Director of the Mauritius Institute of Health (MIH), Dr Geeta Daby was also present.
Discussions centred around the prospects of further collaboration between the Ministry of Health and Quality of Life, through the MIH, and the University of Bordeaux for capacity building of local health care professionals. The running of a programme of specialisation in obstetrics and gynaecology is thus being envisaged for local health care professionals.
The courtesy call was followed by an award ceremony during which 16 ambulance drivers of the SAMU (Service d'aide medicale urgente - Emergency Medical Assistance) received their certificate of skills proficiency, Certificat de Competences de Chauffeur Ambulancier SAMU/SMUR (Services mobiles durgence et de reanimation - mobile emergency medical service) after having successfully completed a programme jointly organised by the MIH and the University of Bordeaux. The training course Formation dAdaptation a lEmploi de Chauffeur Ambulancier SAMU/SMUR was held in November and December 2016 and delivered by two facilitators from Bordeaux.
In his address on this occasion, the Minister of Health and Quality of Life recalled that the University of Bordeaux has been providing training and its expertise to the Mauritian health sector since 1984. Since then, he said, numerous health care professionals have been trained in Mauritius by the University or have undergone further training in Bordeaux.
Commending the University of Bordeaux for its assistance and support, Dr Husnoo highlighted the importance of continuous professional development in achieving Governments vision of providing a high level of health care quality and services to the population.
The Minister also congratulated the 16 awardees, saluting their efforts to improve their knowledge and skills for better intervention. Emergency medical services have a crucial role to play, and their effectiveness within a few minutes on site can make a difference, stressed Dr Husnoo.
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GIS - 03 March, 2017: Governmental and institutional decision makers play a crucial role in setting policies that shape the direction of education systems, and we must advocate for policies that can accelerate the adoption and the creation of more Open Educational Resources (OER). Governmental and institutional decision makers play a crucial role in setting policies that shape the direction of education systems, and we must advocate for policies that can accelerate the adoption and the creation of more Open Educational Resources (OER).
This statement was made by the Minister of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research, Mrs Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun, at the opening of the Africa Regional Consultation on Open Educational Resources on 2 March 2017 at Le Voila Hotel, Bagatelle. The theme of the meeting was OER for Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education: From Commitment to Action.
OER is the fourth regional consultation after those held in Malaysia, Malta and Qatar, and will be followed by two more, in Brazil and in New Zealand respectively. These regional consultations are a lead-up to the 2nd World OER Congress to be organised by UNESCO and the Government of Slovenia in September 2017 in partnership with Commonwealth of Learning.
This meeting, which brought together Government officials and key stakeholders in the Africa Region, aimed at sharing policy initiatives and OER practices and discussing concerns and issues for inclusive and equitable quality education in view of coming up with a Global report on OER for the Africa region, which will be used at the 2nd World OER Congress.
The Minister highlighted that the Paris OER Declaration adopted at the World OER Congress, held at the UNESCO. Headquarters in June 2012 has informed Governments and Educational Leaders about the potential of OERs to combat inequality in education.
Referring to lifelong learning process, she said that the promotion and use of OERs help to both increase and widen access to education at all levels. This is applicable to both formal education set-ups as well as to non-formal ones, and the spinoffs for the individual and the society at large are enormous, she pointed out.
According to Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun, it is highly pertinent for policy makers to ensure that educational materials developed with public funds are not available exclusively to the recipients of public funds. She reiterated Governments commitment to support OERs internationally so that quality educational resources reach those most in need of them.
Furthermore, she made mention of two programmes that her Ministry has embarked upon. The first one relates to the Inclusion Concept which ensures that learners with disabilities have access to appropriate educational opportunities. Free quality education would be made accessible to all irrespective of their physical, economic, social or psychological situation.
The second one is Equity-Related which entails the Student Support Programme for the lower secondary sub-sector. The aim is to provide free additional support to students after school hours so as to consolidate their learning. The flexible mode of delivery will enable the students to learn, at their own pace, and from home. Additional materials will be available to them and the OERs, both existing and new, will be part of the programme. Moreover, along with a dedicated website, full-time educators will be recruited to prepare materials that will be quality-assured prior to on-line delivery.
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GIS 03 March 2017 : Some 100 young women aged between 18 and 35 years gathered at a Youth Forum yesterday morning at the Gold Crest Hotel in Quatre Bornes in order to exchange views, share concerns and aspirations, and make proposals on strategies to be implemented to bring about an equitable and gender inclusive society.
The Forum on the theme Fostering a new generation of young women advocating for gender equality and women empowerment was organised by the National Womens Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender Equality, Child Development and Family Welfare in the context of the 2017 International Womens Day. Talks on Young Womens Movement, its historical background and relevance, as well as on ways to engage young women and girls to advocate gender equality and women empowerment were held.
On this occasion, the Minister of Gender Equality, Child Development and Family Welfare, Mrs Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo, explained that attaining gender equality necessitates a cultural approach that focuses on a change of mindsets and attitudes for a fairer and more just society. Gender equality can never be achieved without the contribution of everyone, both the public and private sectors, civil society and every citizen of the country, she underlined.
Highlighting the importance of giving both girls and boys equal access to education, the Minister stated that education is the path to women empowerment and makes them more independent and self-reliant. She added that education enables women to develop their skills and abilities so that they can stand on their own feet.
The Minister also stressed the importance of providing advice and guidance to young people in the wake of scourges and challenges faced by them namely drugs, prostitution, road accidents and ecology. Mrs Jeewa-Daureeawoo thus urged parents to spend quality time and engage in dialogue with their children.
The 2017 International Womens Day celebrations are geared towards raising awareness of both men and women from all walks of life on the importance of working together to achieve gender equality. The theme chosen by the Ministry is Working towards a gender inclusive society.
Following the interactive session with three generations of women in Pointe aux Piments, and the Youth Forum, the Ministry will organise a workshop on the theme Young Motherhood on 4 March 2017. The workshop aims at enhancing knowledge and providing information on the incidence of teenage pregnancy, its causes, consequences and implications from a medical and socio-economic perspective.
Federal Report: 18F Disregarded IT Security Requirements
18F used IT that was not approved by General Services Administration IT.
18F failed to get proper authorizations to operate information systems.
18F circumvented General Services Administration IT assessment and authorization processes.
18F acquired new IT without the required CIO review and approval.
18F staff used unofficial email accounts to conduct GSA business.
18Fs leadership failed to ensure compliance.
Department of Defense Launches Open Source Initiative
The Berkman Klein Center Releases Open Data Privacy Playbook
Los Angeles Dashboard Visualizes Homeless Shelter Demand
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) for the U.S. General Services Administration has found that 18F , a federal digital consultancy that helps governmental agencies make better use of tech, had disregarded security rules and other procedures choices that at times made sensitive information vulnerable to security breaches. The report , dubbed, was released Tuesday, Feb. 21, and the investigation was conducted by the OIGs Office of Inspections and Forensic Auditing. Its genesis comes from another report in May 2016, which examined a data breach within the General Services Administration, where 18F is housed.The key findings are as follows:The report paints a picture of 18F as a young agency, filled with technologists, that has grown quickly, without always familiarizing its staff and leadership with procedural rules, all of which has led to standard security practices being ignored.The report also offers six recommendations, which all come back to making sure that 18F is aware of and always following the General Services Administration IT regulations, rules and practices. Donna Garland, a spokesperson for the GSA, said in a statement that the organization fully accepts the report's recommendations.The Department of Defense has launched Code.mil , an open source initiative aimed at encouraging technologists to use unclassified agency code in support of projects to bolster national security.The Code.mil URL redirects visitors to the department's GitHub page, an open source online repository of code for Defense Department projects, which programmers can then review before suggesting helpful changes.In a statement , the program is described as a direct avenue for the department to tap into a worldwide community of developers to collectively speed up and strengthen the software development process. Any program code from the Department of Defense will now be hosted on GitHub, where it can be reused for other projects. Basically, the project is likely to serve both the government and the public, with the Defense Department being given access to a massive breadth of technical knowledge, while at the same time offering its governmental software tools for public use.Currently, Code.mil stands as an experiment in open source collaboration, but has not yet been made official. The Defense Department will be taking public comments on its proposed open source strategy before it finalizes its team up with GitHub at the end of March.This is not the first time the Defense Department has looked outside its walls for help with technology. In August 2016 , it turned to a team from Carnegie Mellon University to help build self-destructing drones. And in April 2016 , the department began hosting Hack the Pentagon, an initiative designed to shore up cyberdefense by encouraging people to expose them.A new open data privacy playbook seeks to aid cities and other government agencies undergoing open data initiatives from releasing information that can violate individual privacies.The Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University created the book, which is available for free download . In a statement , the center described the goal of the document as intended to codify responsible privacy-protective approaches and processes that could be adopted by cities and other government organizations that are publicly releasing data.The relationship between open data and individual privacy has been a concern for many state and local agencies as they establish digital resources to make government more transparent. For some agencies it is still a new concept, while others have been grappling with finding a balance for years. In November 2014 , Seattle launched a data privacy initiative to show the public how it collects and uses data. During that announcement, Michael Mattmiller, Seattles chief technology officer, emphasized the importance of collaborating with the public to ensure privacy in the open data era.The trick that we really need to work on as part of our privacy efforts here in the city is to help the public trust in what were doing, Mattmiller toldat the time. There were some issues over the past couple years where the city made some decisions around technology, and we didnt take that step of engaging the public to help them understand what were trying to achieve, and thats created a bit of a gap at the moment.The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) has built an occupancy dashboard that tracks daily capacity at the citys winter shelters in an effort to better visualize demand for such facilities in the city.During Southern Californias winter season, the LAHSAs Winter Shelters Program provides respite for those who are in need of shelter, expanding the citys homeless shelter program in order to meet increased demand from late November through early March. The occupancy dashboard aims to increase civic understanding of the level of need for such shelters.With this platform, users can customize the data sets that appear, with customizable options that include date, service planning area, L.A. County Supervisor District, L.A. City Council District, program and program bed capacity. The graphs this dashboard generates also display the mean temperature.This effort is powered by DataLA, the citys effort to increase transparency, accountability and customer service through open data. Other efforts include Clean Streets Index, Street Wize and Road to 2400, among others.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. Receiving a speeding ticket or any sort of traffic violation is generally not a pleasant experience. But it is one form of a government-to-customer transaction. Instead of receiving a product or service, however, you receive a fine ... and possibly traffic school. While it is not a novel idea that governments be more customer-centric, in practice it is much more difficult to accomplish. The reason? Because agencies generally do not think of issuing tickets or permits as providing customer service.But serving residents in any government service function requires agencies to understand what the entire process looks like holistically, said Peter Kelly, chief deputy director for Californias Child Welfare Digital Services, during a panel discussion at the California Public Sector CIO Academy* on March 2.In thinking about the customer experience, he said, "agencies need to know what other steps are needed to complete the process. In order to provide the best services, he added, it is necessary to know what other agencies are doing and how the residents have been treated.Providing the best services, to which customers have grown accustomed in the private sector, typically entails digital services. Because many agency's legacy systems are not capable of handling these sorts of services, the transition to digital customer delivery often involves procuring systems.And if we have a better method of procurement, Kelly said, the services offered also will be improved. One strategy is to be open and honest about what you are able to provide. We have to be honest upfront, he said.Creating user-centric services for residents is crucial to how government services are rendered. In response to the passage of the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (ACA), California launched Covered California, a health insurance marketplace for state residents and small businesses to purchase health insurance at federally subsidized rates.In the portal's original iterations, the application process was confusing and the site was not optimized for mobile. In a separate panel at the CIO Academy, Covered California Chief Technology and Information Officer Karen Ruiz talked about overhauling the application so that it was more user friendly.Were not here to just to sell insurance, said Ruiz. We want to make sure Californians get the right care at right time. The agency partnered with Accenture and Fjord to update a section of the application as a proof of concept.The firms were tasked with one of the most complicated sections: income. People will often get confused about certain terms and enter inaccurate information, barring them from receiving health benefits, said Fei Collier, program director for California's Department of Health Care Services.Kenzie Haynes, who worked on the application redesign that was released in February, explained that the process of overhauling and optimizing the application is to understand who your target audience is. In this case, said Haynes, "we wanted to design for those who were not the most technologically apt."The redesigned section features much less text and is more humanized. We really tried focusing on being an inviting process so you werent scared off, she said, adding that if chunks of text that may be necessary to know were included, chances are, they wont read it anyway.Additionally, the redesign focused on mobile-first because of the growing population that's reliant on mobile phones as their only source of Internet access. It is also easier to scale a mobile site up to desktop than vice versa, said Haynes.Though there was a constant push and pull between the design firm and the state agencies over what information to highlight or what should be available via a mouse hover, the product ultimately came together because at the end of the day, both entities' goals were centered on providing the best health-care coverage possible.The income section redesign served as a proof of concept, and the agency will continue to redesign other sections of the application to make them more user-friendly. The next round of updates is slated for September, said Ruiz, just before the next open enrollment period.Public CIOGovernment Technology
In collaboration with the private sector, the California Department of Justice (CalDOJ) is going forward with implementing a new protocol designed to support local law enforcement agencies in deploying cloud solutions for criminal justice data.Under state government code, CalDOJ is mandated to maintain a network backbone for use by law enforcement agencies. Supporting this responsibility, the department created the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) and the CLETS Advisory Committee (CAC).The need for a group like CAC trickles down from the FBI, which has a group called the Advisory Policy Board. Its the responsibility of the board to provide national standards for agencies across the U.S. to access Criminal Justice Information Services or national criminal justice data. In California, CAC is charged with ensuring data being sent across local, state and federal agencies meets those FBI requirements.However, technology has come leaps and bounds since CLETS became operational in the 1960s, when it primarily applied to securing data running on dedicated lines via one-way, text-based machines. Following the request of one local police department, DOJ and CAC have been making moves to ensure it keeps up with modern advancements, particularly in the area of cloud technology.CAC counsels the California Attorney General on the appropriate methods of collecting, storing and disseminating CLETS data. When a local law enforcement entity wishes to implement technology not already approved by the committee, it must first go through an application process explaining how the solution meets security requirements. A CLETS auditor is then assigned to the application, who decides whether the technology is legitimate.Last year, when the Chula Vista, Calif., Police Department requested approval to deploy Microsoft Office 365 and Azure, the agencys technology manager, Eric Wood, found a missing piece in the CLETS approval processes. He also learned that there were several neighboring agencies that had submitted requests to deploy cloud services a year prior to his application, all of which never received a response from CAC.We discovered that the CLETS agency did not have a protocol to follow on how to authorize a law enforcement agency in the state to use Office 365, Azure or any cloud service for that matter, Woods said in an interview with. They had not gone through and approved it for any agency because they didnt know how without a protocol.Recognizing the potential impacts his discovery could have on the private sector, Wood engaged with Microsoft to explain how the missing protocol was likely a significant reason why law enforcement agencies in California werent deploying the companys cloud services. Prompted by Woods application, the company began assessing how to remedy the issue.Microsoft had begun working with CalDOJ more than five years prior to Woods discovery, looking to ensure that CLETS and agencies at both a state and national level understood where the evolution of technology is and where its going, an effort Stuart McKee, Microsofts chief technology officer of state and local government, was heavily involved in.Although CLETS historically was developed for teletypes, we have a fiduciary responsibility to embrace it and work through it in such a way that you mitigate the risk for all the parties involved, McKee said.At the time Wood submitted his application for cloud services, Microsoft already had a contractual commitment to CalDOJ in place since 2013, stating the company would provide a level of access to auditing of environments used by agencies, as well as fingerprint-based background checks of employees involved in the development and deployment of those solutions. However, without a CLETS procedure in place to approve Microsoft cloud technology, Wood referred to the agreement as more of an empty nod of approval.Beginning in March 2016, CalDOJ CLETS auditors and engineers held conference calls on a near weekly basis with Microsoft for more than six months, during which the group worked through a list of roles, requirements and responsibilities that would go into law enforcement deploying Microsoft cloud solutions. McKee said the conversations primarily revolved around education.Most of the work that went on, from Microsofts standpoint, was about trying to get educated and understand CLETS, its history, policies and processes, [as well as] understand Eric [Wood], Chula Vista, their requirements and how they operate as an organization, McKee said. Then trying to reconcile that, very often, with what other organizations across California are doing to create some consistency, if you will.Conference calls between CalDOJ and Microsoft closed in October. The end product of the collaboration is a security matrix that gives CLETS auditors a framework to review how security issues involving Microsoft Office 365 and Azure would be managed.Once the security matrix was established, they agreed that it encompassed essentially A to Z of everything we need to be covered, Wood said. Then [CAC] can provide that to an agency who wants to apply and say, In your application complete this security matrix. That was the missing piece.Agencies that had previously requested to implement Microsoft cloud products were asked to re-submit their applications. Following evaluation from CLETS auditors, the Chula Vista Police Departments updated proposal was approved by CAC on Dec. 14. Wood said they contracted with Winbourne Consulting to help develop the submission.In this day and age, many public-sector agencies are strapped for resources and funding, a concept that the Chula Vista PD hasnt been immune to. However, with the protocol to approve cloud resources now in place with CLETS, Woods department and other law enforcement organizations in California have the ability shift their attention away from specific activities, such as racking on-premise servers.Me and my staff are now freed up to really focus on the particular needs of our agency, not just the foundational plumbing of having documents flowing and where are they stored on a file server, Wood elucidated, elaborating on how the changes have helped his department. You can now enable your people to really keep up with a smaller, more manageable set of compliance [rules].As for the private sector, McKee gave insight on how he thinks the CLETS process and the approval for Chula Vista PD is going to impact the market.Getting this milestone completed is going to release a lot of pent up demand. Most of these agencies have already embraced the technology, but they now have an additional level of confidence that what theyre doing is right. At a national level, it really acknowledges Californias leadership and how it is continuing to evolve and embrace emerging technologies responsibly.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
By Leman Zeynalova Trend:
The importance of Southern Gas Corridor for energy diversification and its overall role in political transformation of the region was discussed during the annual conference of the US-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce (USACC) in Washington March 1-2.
During the event, USACC Honorary Advisor John Sununu praised cooperation with Azerbaijan, stressed the strategic importance to the US and prospects of moving the bilateral relations forward, said the message from the USACC.
Azerbaijans ambassador to the US Elin Suleymanov, for his part, outlined key issues that both countries face today and emphasized the importance of future strategic relations. Ambassador then read the congratulatory letter to USACC members from President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Deputy Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Sahib Mammadov highlighted the importance of economic diversification away from oil and gas and noted that Azerbaijan is the largest trade partner of the US in the South Caucasus.
Acting Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairs at US Department of State Mary Warlick called Azerbaijan a reliable partner and touched upon the third meeting of the Advisory Council of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC), recently held in Baku.
She then highlighted the priority role of Azerbaijan in diversification of energy routes, bringing additional gas sources and volumes to Europe and progressing relations with Azerbaijan.
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce Holly Vineyard noted that the US is ready to support the modernization and diversification of Azerbaijans economy.
On Feb. 23, Baku hosted the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Third Ministerial Meeting.
The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for the EU. It envisages the transportation of gas from the Caspian region to the European countries through Georgia and Turkey.
At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage.
As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans Adriatic Pipeline.
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(TNS) -- A national trade group has asked the Federal Communications Commission to overturn a San Francisco ordinance intended to keep landlords from interfering with their tenants ability to choose their Internet service provider.The Multifamily Broadband Council contends that the ordinance, which says landlords must give Internet providers access to existing wiring in their buildings in most circumstances, is unfair because it would force smaller companies to relinquish control of their cables and other infrastructure. The council represents independent Internet providers.Smaller providers in particular rely on their ability to assure investors and creditors theyre able to maintain exclusive and undisturbed access to their wiring. Not being able to provide those assurances puts their finances at risk and cedes a competitive advantage to larger competitors that dont depend on third-party funding, the trade group says.This ordinance creates a free-for-all amongst various competing service providers, said Bob Grosz, a council member and executive vice president of Elauwit Networks, a telecommunications provider that caters to multiunit buildings in 40 states.The unintended consequence is service disruption and vandalization of cable infrastructure, whether intended or unintended, he said.The San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously passed the ordinance in December. The broadband council sent a letter to supervisors in November saying that effective competition will cease to exist among Internet providers if the ordinance became law.The council has one member in the Bay Area Internet provider Satel in San Francisco though a spokeswoman for the group said other regional providers are considering joining. The organizations website lists more than 40 Internet providers and telecommunications companies as members, including Dish Network and DirecTV, which was bought by AT&T in 2015 for $67 billion.Supervisor Mark Farrell, who introduced the ordinance to provide apartment dwellers with more Internet options, fired back against the broadband council Wednesday, accusing the group of using tortured logic to make a case for greater competition.Its a joke. This is a shell organization for large cable companies, Farrell said. This unequivocally demonstrates that the large cable industry organizations are scared stiff about competing in San Francisco. They should be embarrassed.He added that he was wholly confident in the legal basis for our ordinance.Multifamily Broadband Council President Dan Terheggen denied that his organization was advocating for major corporations.In terms of operators, we are all relatively small businesses, said Terheggen, who also works as the CEO of broadband provider Consolidated Smart Systems. Were not a joke. The FCC doesnt see us as a joke.Dish and DirecTV, Terheggen said, were vendor members that worked alongside the groups core of Internet providers.Dane Jasper, the CEO of Sonic, a Santa Rosa high-speed broadband provider that is not a Multifamily Broadband Council member, was puzzled by the groups arguments that the ordinance will hobble regional companies like his from competing. The effect so far has been just the opposite, he said.The ordinance, he said, is essential for competitive access. The economic harm we suffer is if were not allowed to enter and service the customers who have signed up for our service. Sonic, he said, has already benefited from the ordinance, having gained entry to apartment buildings where landlords had previously denied access.The broadband councils petition to the FCC, Jasper said, just seems backward.The FCC, which has some authority over the cables that telecom companies use to connect customers to the Internet, is expected to review the broadband councils petition, but its unclear if the agency will ultimately move to change or overturn the citys ordinance.
(TNS) -- A push to scrap requirements to run public notices in newspapers pits Gov. Scott Walker, who says the move would bring government into the 21st century, against critics who say it would hurt the publics right to know.Walker, in his proposal for the states 2017-2019 budget, offers what he describes as a government reform measure affecting legal requirements for printing, mailing and publishing public notices.It would give state and local agencies the option to publish certain public notices on their websites instead of in a local newspaper. Some lawmakers are offering a separate bill that would extend an online-only publishing option just to local governments.Proponents say the measures would save money for taxpayers while updating how government disseminates information in the digital age. Walker spokesman Tom Evenson said in a statement that the governors proposal would modernize government services, create efficiencies, and cost savings for taxpayers.More people are sharing more information digitally every day, and government should be expected to keep up with these basic technological advancements, Evenson said.Critics say the changes would be a blow to the publics ability to learn about government business. Beth Bennett, executive director of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association, said the internet far from being what birthed these proposals is only the latest means some are using toward the end of jettisoning newspapers as independent stewards of public information.Way before the internet was an issue, it was just a cost issue, Bennett said. Thats the reason that newspapers were entrusted (with public notices) so government doesnt have to report on itself.Thats what this legislation would do: it would allow government to report on itself.Not all public notices are affected by the proposed changes. Walkers plan would not apply to notices of upcoming public meetings or hearings, or to court-ordered notices for foreclosure and unclaimed property, according to the newspaper association.Types of notices that would be affected include so-called proceedings notices of public meeting minutes, budgets and ordinances. Current law generally requires governmental units to print such notices in a newspaper published in the affected jurisdiction. The Wisconsin Newspaper Association collects and publishes all public notices online at the wisconsinpublicnotices.org website.Sen. Duey Stroebel, R-Saukville, and Rep. Jeremy Thiesfeldt, R-Fond du Lac, are sponsoring companion bills that would give the online-only publishing option to local governments.The proposals are part of a national effort to roll back publishing requirements for public notices. At least 12 states are considering legislation that would move all or most of their official notices from newspapers to websites operated or controlled by government units, the Public Notice Resource Center reported last month Local government advocacy groups are among the supporters of the Stroebel-Thiesfeldt bill. Dan Rossmiller, a spokesman for the Wisconsin Association of School Boards, said it could results in cost savings for districts, albeit on a scale that is not huge. The issue is more about local control, he said.Our intent, really, is to let school boards decide how they want to distribute the information, Rossmiller said.Senate Democratic Leader Jennifer Shilling, of La Crosse, has spoken out against Walkers proposed changes.The Legislature should remove this policy change from the budget and force Gov. Walker to explain why he wants to limit public oversight, Shilling said in a statement.State Rep. Todd Novak is uniquely positioned to address the issue, having served both as a newspaper editor for 25 years and as mayor of Dodgeville.In a recent Wisconsin State Journal op-ed piece, Novak, R-Dodgeville, argued against Walkers proposed changes. Novak said they could cause particular harm in parts of rural Wisconsin, where he wrote that newspapers are the lifeblood of a community and sometimes the only convenient source of information.By allowing the electronic option, we are cutting off a source of information to our constituents, our taxpayers and the people who hold us accountable, Novak wrote. At this time, the savings obtained by not publishing notices does not outweigh the publics right to know.The Legislature should remove this policy change from the budget and force Gov. Walker to explain why he wants to limit public oversight.
Valtteri Bottas has played down the significance of ending the week as the 'champion' of Barcelona testing.
The Mercedes newcomer clocked the fastest lap over the four days of the first pre-season test, despite switching at the last minute from Williams.
Asked if that 'win' means anything, the Finn responded: "This has no special meaning for me. We are here to test so there are no prizes.
"For me it was extremely important to get as much driving as possible, so it was a good week for me."
However, 27-year-old Bottas said the difficulty of the Mercedes switch - having spent his entire career to date at Williams - caught him by surprise.
"The team change was a bigger deal than I thought," he said. "It will still take some time, because the team is much bigger than Williams.
"But this morning I came to the track, looked forward to breakfast and everything felt normal -- as though I had been here for a while. That was a nice feeling," said Bottas.
Bottas was not only the fastest driver overall in Barcelona, but also the one who did the most laps.
Asked if that is important, he agreed: "Very important. Because every lap, every minute, in my new team is important. This was my goal for the first test and we achieved that."
(GMM)
Force India's livery could soon turn pink, according to a German source.
The specialist publication Auto Bild claims the Silverstone based team is in talks with BWT, an Austrian water technology company.
BWT is no stranger to motor racing, having coloured Lucas Auer's Mercedes DTM car pink from 2015. The company is also involved in Formula 4 with a pink car in 2017.
"A condition of BWT's sponsor agreements is always that the cars are painted pink," Auto Bild said.
(GMM)
Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 3
By Anakhanum Hidayatova Trend:
The European Union is committed to implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) project, Head of the EU Delegation to Azerbaijan Malena Mard told Trend March 3.
Mard said Europe, Azerbaijan and other partners in the project proved this once again during the SGC Advisory Councils Third Ministerial Meeting, held in Baku in February.
The diplomat expressed hope that the Azerbaijani gas will be delivered to Europe in 2020.
She noted that the EU has remained over many years the largest trade partner of Azerbaijan and the largest investor of its economy, and in spring the two sides will hold the next business forum, which will be a continuation of the sides meeting held in May 2016.
During the upcoming meetings of businessmen, the sides will analyze the work done as well as the results of economic reforms carried out by Azerbaijan, said Mard.
The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for the EU. It envisages the transportation of gas from the Caspian region to the European countries through Georgia and Turkey.
At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage.
As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans Adriatic Pipeline.
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Follow the author on Twitter: @Anahanum
Pirelli has vowed to keep working on the effectiveness of its wet-weather tyres.
On Thursday, the sight of trucks dumping thousands of litres of water on the Barcelona circuit was widely criticised, as F1's official supplier attempted to test its modified wets for 2017.
Some wondered why Pirelli didn't arrange to run instead at Paul Ricard, where a sprinkler system is in place.
"There's also Fiorano," Pirelli's Paul Hembery said, "but these conditions are different so in Barcelona you have to use these trucks which, as you know, is not the most advanced technology.
"As such, the conditions are constantly changing. But we can still see there are problems with the tyre warming so we're going to continue to search for solutions."
Lewis Hamilton opted out of the 'wet' testing completely, joking on Wednesday that he would "fake a pulled muscle" before his car mysteriously developed an electrical problem on Thursday morning.
But Kimi Raikkonen - a critic of Pirelli's wets last year - was duly in action.
Asked if Pirelli has improved, the Ferrari driver answered: "Hard to say. The conditions when you wet the track are never like when it rains, so it's not easy for them.
"It's hard to make wet tyres without being able to test them properly," he added.
Haas' Romain Grosjean said: "I think Pirelli has made progress, but the intermediates lost their effectiveness after one lap so it's necessary to do something more.
"But in general, this is progress compared to last year."
(GMM)
Toto Wolff says it is too soon to say Mercedes is still ahead of the field in 2017.
After the first of just two pre-season tests, the conventional wisdom is that Mercedes leads, Ferrari is close behind, and Red Bull is the third force.
But Mercedes team boss Wolff said: "Since we have these new rules, the teams are just trying to get a lot of mileage to know their cars.
"At Red Bull, we probably haven't seen the car that will be in Melbourne. But Ferrari is really fast," he admitted to Osterreich newspaper.
McLaren chief Eric Boullier admits that a pecking order is not possible to assess after four days of running, but he said Ferrari's pace has been "surprising".
"We did not expect to see them on the pace with the Mercedes. Red Bull seems a little behind, but we do not have all of the information to judge," he is quoted by France's Auto Hebdo.
"We may know a little more next week, but we really have to wait until Australia."
Boullier may be surprised with what he saw in Barcelona, but Red Bull's Max Verstappen seemed calm.
"Actually, nothing surprised me here," he is quoted by Het Laatste Nieuws. "And I think everything is still within reach for us."
(GMM)
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
By Leman Zeynalova Trend:
Israel has started exporting gas to Jordan from Its offshore Tamar gas field, marking the countrys first ever exports of natural gas.
The exports to Jordan began in January, Delek Drilling part of a consortium leading the development of Israels offshore gas reserves told AFP.
Reportedly, gas from the Tamar field is being supplied to two Jordanian customers, namely the Jordan Bromine Company and the Arab Potash Company.
The Tamar gas field is a natural gas field in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Israel. Tamar field is considered to have proven reserves of 200 billion cubic meters of natural gas, while the adjoining Tamar South field has 23 billion cubic meters.
Israel has also been developing the recently discovered Leviathan gas field, which will be more export-oriented than Tamar. Jordans National Electric Power Company (NEPCO) and Noble Energy signed a 15-year $10-billion Leviathan gas field deal in September.
Natural gas in Israel is a primary energy source in the country. As of 2014, Israel produced over 7.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas a year.
The US Energy Information Administration listed Israel as having 7 trillion cubic feet of proved reserves as of January 1, 2015.
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Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
Trend:
Azercell Telecom LLC has participated in the 5th Career Fair at ADA University, on March 2, 2017. The company had a separate stand in the fair. Azeronline company also took part in this fair.
Azercell Telecom LLC representatives held information sessions for graduates and briefed the visitors about active vacancies in the company. They also instructed about the recruitment process and the Student Bursary and Internship Programs at Azercell and answered a number of questions of the career fair visitors.
The students also got an opportunity to be informed about the existing demand for his/her field of specialization in labor market, build up first relations with employers while the latter had a chance to shortlist potential employees.
The event was aimed to provide some advice to the jobseekers in their field of specialization and help them build their future career.
It should be noted that Azercell Telecom continuously helps talented youth to build career and find their places in the labor market. With its own initiative, Azercell has organized Career Days on a regular basis.
During such events, the youth striving to join the company meet with Azercell representatives and get broad information about company activities. Under the Student Bursary program of the company, capable youth studying at Azerbaijani universities get a great opportunity to receive special bursary from Azercell and take internship at various divisions of the company.
A lot of social projects conducted by the company are related to education. In this way Azercell cooperates with the leading universities and helps to improve their material and technical bases.
For more information, please contact [email protected]
The leader of the mobile communication industry of Azerbaijan and the biggest investor in the non-oil sector Azercell Telecom LLC was founded in 1996. With 48% share of Azerbaijans mobile market Azercells network covers 80% of the territory and 99,8% of population of the country.
Currently, 4,5 million subscribers choose Azercell services. Azercell has pioneered an important number of innovations in Azerbaijan, including GSM technology, advance payment system, 24/7 Customer Care, online customer services, GPRS/EDGE, M2M, MobilBank, one-stop- shop service offices Azercell Express, mobile e-service ASAN signature, etc. Azercell deployed first 4G LTE services in Azerbaijan in 2012.
According to the results of mobile network quality surveys of Global Wireless Solutions company and international systems specialized in wireless coverage mapping such as Opensignal and Testmy.net, Azercells network demonstrated the best results among the mobile operators of Azerbaijan.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
By Elena Kosolapova Trend:
Kazakh Airlines Air Astana will increase frequency of flights to Georgia since June, the press-service of the company said in a message March 3.
In June, we will be increasing flights to Tbilisi. Almaty-Tbilisi will become a daily service; Astana-Tbilisi will operate 4 times a week, the company said.
Currently Air Astana operates two flights per week on both Almaty-Tbilisi and Astana- Tbilisi destinations.
In June-September 2017 Kazakhstan will host EXPO-2017 exhibition. Over 100 countries will take part in the exhibition. Kazakhstan plans to launch a number of new flights and increase the frequency of existing flights in period of EXPO.
Follow the author on Twitter: @E_Kosolapova
Their report on quantum-controlled fusion suggests that rather than heating atoms to temperatures found inside the sun or smashing them in a collider, it might be possible to nudge them close enough to fuse by using shaped laser pulses: ultrashort, tuned bursts of coherent light.
Scientists at Rice University, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Chile are proposing that quantum-controlled motion of nuclei, starting from the nanometer-size ground state of a molecule, can potentially overcome some of the difficulties of thermonuclear fusion by compression of a fuel pellet or in a bulk plasma.
Nuclear reactions involving the close approach of charged particles have much smaller cross sections than do chemical reactions at ambient thermal energy. Obtaining reasonable reaction rates for nuclear fusion by thermal means thus requires achieving simultaneously high densities and temperatures. Such extreme conditions are difficult to control in thermal plasmas, laser-compressed fuel pellets, or within small clusters of ordinary molecules subject to intense laser excitation. Even in a molecular cluster, much of the absorbed laser energy is thermalized through intra-cluster collisions. As a result, the cluster is blown apart, decreasing fusion yields. A novel approach to circumvent the confinement problem in thermal plasmas has been suggested: a solid state plasma confined by the quantum pinch effect in a semiconducting wire.
Fusion reactions also can be induced by non-thermal means. For example, charged particle beams can be collided at appropriately high energy to carry out fusion reactions in the laboratory. Alternatively, fusion can be catalyzed by achieving a high spatial density, as happens for the nuclei within a muonic molecule. When a muon replaces the electron, it brings the nuclei ~200 times closer together than in an ordinary molecule, greatly enhancing the spontaneous nuclear reaction rate even at low temperature. In many ways, the ground state of such a molecule is the ideal situation for fusion because the phase space density of the reacting species takes on the largest possible value consistent with quantum mechanics. While greeted by much excitement when it was discovered in the 1950s, muon-catalyzed fusion still just falls a bit short of practicality because of the insufficient lifetime of the muon.
Fusion does not occur to a measurable extent in the ground state of normal molecules bound by electrons because of the lower density of nuclei (~ 1/A3, not 1/pm3) and the low vibrational energy (meV, not keV) compared to muonic molecules. In this paper we will explore whether laser pulse shaping could allow quantum control to enhance intramolecular nuclear collision rates, starting from normal internuclear distances. Berrios et al.
Peter Wolynes of Rice, Martin Gruebele of Illinois and Illinois alumnus Eduardo Berrios of Chile simulated reactions in two dimensions that, if extrapolated to three, might just produce energy efficiently from deuterium and tritium or other elements.
Their paper appears in the festschrift edition of Chemical Physical Letters dedicated to Ahmed Zewail, Gruebeles postdoctoral adviser and a Nobel laureate for his work on femtochemistry, in which femtosecond-long laser flashes trigger chemical reactions.
The femtochemical technique is central to the new idea that nuclei can be pushed close enough to overcome the Coulomb barrier that forces atoms of like charge to repel each other. When that is accomplished, atoms can fuse and release heat through neutron scattering. When more energy is created than it takes to sustain the reaction, sustained fusion becomes viable.
Using shaped laser pulses might make it possible to nudge atoms in a deuterium/tritium molecule close enough to fuse, according to a new study. Researchers at Rice University, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Chile suggested that quantum-controlled fusion may provide a possible new path toward the production of energy through nuclear fusion. (Credit: Gruebele Group/University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign) Click to enlarge.
The trick is to do all this in a controlled way, and scientists have been pursuing such a trick for decades, primarily by containing hydrogen plasmas at sun-like temperatures (at the US Department of Energys National Ignition Facility and the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor effort in France) and in large facilities.
The new paper describes a basic proof-of-principle simulation that shows how, in two dimensions, a shaped-laser pulse would push a molecule of deuterium and tritium, its nuclei already poised at a much smaller internuclear distance than in a plasma, nearly close enough to fuse.
we performed quantum wavepacket propagation in a 2-D toy model of two field-bound nuclei in the presence of a time-dependent 800 nm laser pulse that was shaped to exert coherent control over the nuclear wavepacket. The collision probability is enhanced by about 3 orders of magnitude by the best coherent control pulse, and by up to 20 orders of magnitude relative to an electron-bound molecule. Since muonic fusion is already not far from break-even for net energy production, shaped VUV laser pulses, when they become available, could also be an efficient means of enhancing muonic fusion by coherent control. Berrios et al.
Wolynes said 2-D simulations were necessary to keep the iterative computations practical, even though doing so required stripping electrons from the model molecules.
The best way to do it would be to leave the electrons on to help the process and control their motions, but that is a higher-dimensional problem that weor someonewill tackle in the future Peter Wolynes
Without the electrons, it was still possible to bring nuclei within a small fraction of an angstrom by simulating the effects of shaped 5-femtosecond, near-infrared laser pulses, which held the nuclei together in a field-bound molecule.
For decades, researchers have also investigated muon-catalyzed fusion, where the electron in the deuterium/tritium molecule is replaced by a muon. Think of it as a 208-times heavier electron. As a result, the molecular bond distance shrinks by a factor of 200, poising the nuclei even better for fusion.
Sadly, muons dont live forever, and the increased fusion efficiency just falls short of breaking even in energy output. But when shaped vacuum ultraviolet laser pulses become as available as the near-infrared ones we simulated here, quantum control of muonic fusion may get it over the threshold. Martin Gruebele
Because the model works at the quantum levelwhere subatomic particles are subject to different rules and have the characteristics of both particles and wavesthe Heisenberg uncertainty principle comes into play. That makes it impossible to know the precise location of particles and makes tuning the lasers a challenge, Wolynes said.
Its clear the kind of pulses you need have to be highly sculpted and have many frequencies in them. It will probably take experimentation to figure out what the best pulse shape should be, but tritium is radioactive, so no one ever wants to put tritium in their apparatus until theyre sure its going to work. Peter Wolynes
Wolynes said he and Gruebele, whose lab studies protein folding, cell dynamics, nanostructure microscopy, fish swimming behavior and other topics, have been thinking about the possibilities for about a decade, even though nuclear fusion is more of a hobby than a profession for both.
Were not starting a company yet. But there may be angles here other people can think through that would lead to something practical even in the short term, such as production of short alpha particle pulses that could be useful in research applications. Peter Wolynes
Berrios, lead author of the paper, is a research scientist at the University of Chile, Santiago. Wolynes is the D.R. Bullard-Welch Foundation Professor of Science, a professor of chemistry, of biochemistry and cell biology, of physics and astronomy and of materials science and nanoengineering at Rice and a senior investigator at Rice's National Science Foundation-funded Center for Theoretical Biological Physics. Gruebele is the head of chemistry, the James R. Eiszner Endowed Chair in Chemistry and a professor of physics, biophysics and computational biology at Illinois.
The National Science Foundation supported the research.
Resources
The new advanced safety research vehicle is the first autonomous testing platform developed entirely by TRI, and reflects the rapid progress of its autonomous driving program, said TRI CEO Gill Pratt. The system is computationally rich and perception-rich, focusing heavily on machine vision and machine learning. The layered and overlapping LiDAR, radar and camera sensor array reduce the need to depend too heavily on high-definition mapsespecially for near-term systems which will be designed for use in areas where such maps dont yet exist.
The Toyota Research Institute (TRI) displayed its 2.0 generation advanced safety research vehicle at the companys Prius Challenge event in Sonoma California. ( Earlier post .)The all-new test vehicle will be used to explore a full range of autonomous driving capabilities.
The platform is the second generation of the advanced safety research vehicle revealed to the public by Toyota at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show. It is built on a current generation Lexus LS 600hL, which features a robust drive-by-wire interface. The 2.0 is designed to be a flexible, plug-and-play test platform that can be upgraded continuously and often. Its technology stack will be used to develop both of TRIs core research paths: Chauffeur and Guardian systems.
Chauffeur refers to the always deployed, fully autonomous system classified by SAE as unrestricted Level 5 autonomy and Level 4 restricted and geo-fenced operation.
Guardian is a high-level driver assist system, constantly monitoring the driving environment inside and outside the vehicle, ready to alert the driver of potential dangers and stepping in when needed to assist in crash avoidance.
Basically, it is a smart vehicle designed to get smarter over time. It will learn individual driver habits and abilities and will benefit from shared intelligence from other cars as data gathering, sharing and connectivity technologies advance. We believe Guardian can probably be deployed sooner and more widely than Chauffeur, providing high-level driver-assist features capable of helping mitigate collisions and save lives, sooner rather than later. Gil Pratt
Toyotas approach to Automatic Emergency Braking shows a similar commitment. It will be standard equipment on nearly every model and trim level of Lexus and Toyota vehicles in the US by the end of 2017, five years ahead of NHTSAs 2022 target date.
The Prius Challenge brought together a select group of entrepreneurs, technologists and Silicon Valley automotive enthusiasts to engage with the Toyota Research Institute while having some fun at the Sonoma Raceway. The goal: to increase dialogue and build a community around the topics of mobility, data science, artificial intelligence and robotics.
Toyotas work on autonomous vehicles in the United States began in 2005 at its technical center in Ann Arbor, Mich. The company secured its first U.S. patents in the field in 2006. According to a report last year by the Intellectual Property and Science division of Thomson Reuters, Toyota holds more patents in the field than any other company. About Toyota Research Institute
Toyota Research Institute is a wholly owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor North America under the direction of Dr. Gill Pratt. The company, established in 2015, aims to strengthen Toyotas research structure and has four initial mandates: 1) enhance the safety of automobiles; 2) increase access to cars to those who otherwise cannot drive; 3) translate Toyotas expertise in creating products for outdoor mobility into products for indoor mobility; and 4) accelerate scientific discovery by applying techniques from artificial intelligence and machine learning.
TRI plans to employ approximately 250 employees and is based in the United States, with offices in Stanford Research Park in Palo Alto, CA (TRI-PAL), in Kendall Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts (TRI-CAM), and in Ann Arbor, Michigan, near the University of Michigan campus (TRI-ANN).
The Volkswagen brand has established a "Sub-Saharan Africa region to develop and strengthen its activities in the African market. Sub-Saharan Africa refers to the area of the African continent south of the Sahara. The new fourth region joins Volkswagens existing regions of North America, South America and China and is the next step in the Volkswagen brands strategy to position itself in focus areas. Sub-Sahara comprises 49 African states with a total population of some 920 million.
The region will be headed by Thomas Schafer, Chairman and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group South Africa. Organizational details will be elaborated in the coming weeks.
Africa is still one of the blank spots on the Volkswagen map. There is, however, enormous potential in the region to meet the mobility needs of a burgeoning middle class. We will drive forward the development of these new markets in cooperation with various African governmentsand gradually strengthen and expand the new Sub-Saharan Africa region. Thomas Schafer
The Volkswagen brand currently has three operations in the region: the company has been building cars in South Africa since 1951. Vehicle assembly began in Nigeria in 2015, with assembly in Kenya getting underway in December 2016.
In addition, Volkswagen plans to launch an integrated mobility concept in Rwanda at the end of this year. The concept provides for app-based mobility solutions such as car sharing and ride hailing. For this purpose, an environmentally compatible local vehicle production facility is to be established in the capital city Kigali to cover vehicle demand for the integrated mobility concept.
Schafer began his career with Volkswagen AG in 2012 as Head of Group Production (Foreign plants). Prior to joining Volkswagen, he held senior management posts at Daimler AG in South Africa and Malaysia. Since February 2015, Thomas Schafer has headed the Volkswagen Group South Africa.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 3
By Elena Kosolapova Trend:
Kazakhstans National Fund will transfer over 1.092 trillion tenges (over $3.4 billion) to the state budget for the recovery of the countrys banking sector.
A corresponding decree was signed by Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev. The text of the decree was published on the website of Kazakhstans Legal information system of Regulatory Legal Acts.
Thirty-four banks were operating in Kazakhstan as of Jan. 1, 2017. The international rating agencies say that short-term outlook of Kazakh banking sector is negative.
Follow the author on Twitter: @E_Kosolapova
By DAVID MARTIN
Editor
A former Sublette County Sheriff was found guilty of four charges filed against him as a result of actions he took immediately following his election in 2014.
According to the Pinedale Roundup, a jury found Stephen Haskell guilty of three felonies, which were obtaining property under false pretenses, unlawfully receiving property and making a false claim Friday afternoon. He was also found guilty of a misdemeanor charge of performing an official duty before qualified to do so.
A fifth charge of committing an authorized act as an officer was dismissed. The Pinedale R...
Rock Springs-Sweetwater County Airport plays a critical role in fostering business and economic growth in Southwest Wyoming with over $31 million in annual economic output.
The airport handled more than 1.2 million pounds of cargo, 16,600 aircraft operations, and 50,000 travelers in 2016 and is poised for growth in 2017.
With an airport in their backyard, Sweetwater County companies are able to access the global marketplace. Hundreds of companies have major operations here, and they rely on quality air transportation services to transport their goods and products to the marketplace.
The a...
Dear Editor,
This bill, which would allow private game farming of greater sage grouse, is both misguided and dangerous to our Wyoming lifestyle. The most damaging provision would be the loss of Wyomings legacy of disallowing the privatization of native species. Disallowing private citizens to propagate, breed, possess, release, kill, hunt, sell...farmed sage grouse, or any other native wild species, has been a pillar of Wyoming conservation and management efforts, and has been upheld by the citizens of Wyoming many times.
Privatization of native species drastically increases risk...
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, March 3
By Huseyn Hasanov Trend:
The preparation process is underway for Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyevs visit to Turkmenistan, said the Turkmen Foreign Ministry in a message March 3.
The issue on the visits preparation was discussed during negotiations between Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and Uzbek Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, Investments and Trade Elyor Ganiev in Ashgabat.
The sides also expressed satisfaction with the current state of fruitful cooperation and noted the necessity of further intensification of mutually beneficial partnership, which is based on principles of mutual respect and trust, says the message.
In particular, the sides viewed bilateral documents, which are planned to be signed during Mirziyoyevs above-mentioned visit.
Regional issues and the ways of expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation within international organizations were also discussed during the meeting.
The energy sphere is one of strategic directions of partnership between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Turkmenistan has been delivering natural gas to China through Uzbekistan.
You didnt have to be Nostradamus to predict that sexism and misogyny would thrive under a Donald Trump presidency.
And, boy, did it happen fast.
The day after his inauguration, when more than 3 million people in America and another 300,000 around the world joined the Womens March on Washington, public officials, including several in North Carolina, posted sexist and demeaning comments regarding the participants.
Among the most widely circulated was a Facebook post that credited Donald Trump with getting more fat women out walking than (former first lady) Michelle Obama did in 8 years. Among those sharing that little gem was North Carolinas new insurance commissioner, Republican Mike Causey.
Nebraska state Sen. Bill Kintner, who had admitted to having cybersex on a state computer, retweeted a joke implying that three womens march demonstrators were too unattractive to sexually assault.
If that sounds familiar, its because Trump said essentially the same thing, about women who had accused him of sexual assault, during a campaign stop in Greensboro last fall.
In North Carolina, Rep. Michael Speciale, a Republican from New Bern, shared a video produced by conservative TV personality Steven Crowder, who dressed in drag to infiltrate a Womens March in Texas because, he says in the video, no one questions, criticizes nor conducts security background checks on trannies.
Proving that sexism is not confined to men, state Sen. Joyce Krawiec of Kernersville tweeted to the crazies at the Womens March: If Brains were lard, you couldnt grease a small skillet.
Sticks and stones, right? Except that sexist statements like these both reflect and promote the attitude that a womans value is based solely on physical attributes and ridicules the idea that women have the right and responsibility to voice their ideas and beliefs.
The mindset that produces remarks like these also produces policies that reflect a view of women as objects, second-class citizens or the property of men.
As soon as state legislatures convened after Trumps election, a flurry of anti-abortion bills were filed at least 46 bills in a little more than a week, according to Vice News. Many of those bills sought to ban abortion after 20 weeks.
In North Carolina, House Bill 62 would require multiple doctors visits and multiple ultrasounds for administering abortion pills, making the process more expensive and placing women at higher risk of infection, all based on unproven science suggesting that the process could be reversed.
Like many legislators around the country, N.C. Rep. Beverly Boswell (R-Dare) introduced a bill declaring that life begins at conception, which would ban abortion altogether. These so-called personhood bills give a fertilized egg the same constitutional rights as a grown woman.
In other words, the right to life and liberty would begin at conception for the fetus and end at conception for the woman. Once pregnant, her rights would be transferred to a bundle of cells that may or may not successfully develop into a human being. By this definition, anything else a woman might want or achieve is secondary to her role as a procreator.
I understand that they feel like that is their body, Oklahoma Rep. Justin Humphrey (R) said of women. In the case of pregnancy, he explained, a woman is more like a host.
Humphreys bill would require a woman to get written consent from the man who fathered the child before obtaining an abortion, ceding her life decisions to a man who may not have her interests at heart. Such a bill would turn pregnancy into a weapon and women into chattel.
This harkens back to the day when women were consigned to child-rearing and housekeeping while men pursued careers and made decisions.
That sentiment also was reflected in a billboard on Interstate 40 near Winston-Salem, which made national news last week with its message: Real men provide. Real women appreciate it.
Whatever its intent, the message women received was distinctly patriarchal and insulting.
Nearly 100 people, predominantly women, protested the billboard this past weekend, using bed sheets to make signs that promoted gender equality.
Its not a subtle message at all, Tracy Stottler of Kernersville told the Winston-Salem Journal. The underlying message is for women to know their place. We have more rights than to be in the kitchen making a sandwich.
Or having babies.
Increasingly, women are not just joining but leading the resistance against policies that disadvantage not only women, but immigrants, minorities and religious groups. Women are fighting against policies that would harm the environment or stifle scientific research.
If 100 people will come out to protest a billboard, imagine how many more will stand against laws that directly attack womens rights.
Because beneath the signs and chants and pink hats lies a firm conviction:
We are not your property.
We do not exist for your gratification.
We will lead fully realized lives in which childbirth may or may not play a part.
And our vision of a better world extends beyond our own self-interest.
We can speak louder if you didnt hear us the first time.
Winston-Salem Just two months after a dispute briefly took WXII off DirecTV, the station is off another satellite television providers lineup.
On Friday, Dish Network Corp. removed Hearst Television, which owns and operates WXII and 25 other local TV stations in markets across the country, from its lineup.
The two sides could not agree on what is known as retransmission consent, which allows a television provider to carry a channels programs on its service for a fee.
Both sides issued statements blaming the other for the impasse. Dish Network said Hearst seeks above-market rate increases nearly double the current Dish rate, and other unreasonable demands. Hearst has also refused Dishs offer to match the rates paid by other pay-TV providers.
Hearst Television countered that it has made significant investments to deliver top quality programming to our viewers and Dish is seeking the right to carry our stations at below market rates, which is neither fair nor reasonable.
During the negotiations, Hearst had granted Dish an extension, saying that it was done in hopes of concluding a renewal of its carriage agreement by Friday.
When that did not come to fruition, Dish took the Hearst stations off its lineup, saying that Hearst is blacking out millions of Americans for the second time since January.
We have not blacked out our station, said Michelle Butt, the president and general manager of WXII. You may continue to receive our station for free, over the air, and, where available, from your local cable or satellite operators.
Warren Schlichting, Dishs executive vice president of programming, said, We are actively working to negotiate an agreement that promptly returns this content to Dishs programming lineup.
In the meantime, for some of our customers a simple indoor antenna can be a great way to receive these channels for free, over the air, Schlichting said. Well work with our customers to find alternative ways to watch programming.
Retransmission consent disputes are often resolved without service interruption for viewers, but occasionally some disruptions do occur. In 2012, for example, WXII was removed from Time Warner Cable for 10 days during a dispute; at that time, TWC briefly used another NBC affiliate from a Pennsylvania market in place of WXII.
In 2014, a dispute between Hearst and Dish took WXII off the service for less than a day before a deal was reached.
The dispute between Hearst and DirecTV in January was resolved after six days. Details of the deal were not disclosed.
Kristen Yntemas mother was a nurse, so it seemed a natural choice for Yntema to follow in her footsteps. She became a nursing assistant, a job she held from age 15 to 23.
It didnt take Yntema long, though, to discern that nursing wasnt for her.
I realized I didnt have the mindset for the chemistry and biology involved in becoming a nurse, said Yntema, 43.
But she wanted to stay in the health care field, so Yntema decided to go into hospital administration.
Yntema, the new president and chief executive officer of Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, earned two advanced degrees and has worked in hospital and health care administration ever since.
She started in her new position Feb. 20, succeeding Patricia Soenksen, who will retire this month after nearly 10 years with the organization.
I think for people that go into health care, its a calling, Yntema said. Health care is a passion for me.
Serving an average of 350 patients a day, Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro is a nonprofit that has served Guilford County and its surrounding counties since 1980.
Hospice provides physical, spiritual and emotional support for children and adults faced with terminal illness, as well as support for their caregivers and families.
Before joining Hospice, Yntema served as the vice president of regional development and innovation at Advanced Home Care in High Point, where she managed a $175 million sales budget, providing leadership across five regions in two states.
A native of Leesburg, Va., Yntema double majored in public administration and business at Elon University and then spent a year in Washington working for then-U.S. Rep. David Dreier, a California Republican.
Yntema then went on to get an MBA and masters degree in health services administration from Xavier University
In 1998 she came back to North Carolina, first working as an executive fellow at Cone Health, where she interviewed with Soenksen.
Yntema spent 10 years at Cone in various administrative positions, including as the director of Care Link, before going to Advanced Home Care.
The local Hospice has experienced tremendous growth for nearly 10 years, and Mary Magrinat, the chairwoman of the organizationss board of directors, said she believes continuing that growth will get more challenging in the evolving health care environment.
It will require business acumen, strategic thinking and successful partnerships. In addition, and equally important, it will require a leader who is dedicated to quality patient care, Magrinat said. Our board is confident that Kristen has the skills and qualities to meet those needs and is the ideal person to lead our organization at this time.
Because she doesnt come from a Hospice background, Yntema said she is looking forward to learning from the experts.
Im excited to join a team with great leaders and co-workers who provide wonderful care, she said. I will shadow employees and learn what they love, what barriers they face.
She said she plans to connect with all the employees and board members, as well as with physicians in the community.
Pat Soenksen was an amazing leader; I have big shoes to fill, Yntema said. Its humbling and an honor to follow in her footsteps.
In her spare time, Yntema enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, Brady, a lawyer, and children, 12-year-old Evan and 9-year-old Whitley.
She said she is excited to see her career come full circle, and because her beloved grandmother and a dear friend received hospice care, now working for Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro is even more special.
I love to create new value for an organization, and I think Hospice is a valuable part of the health care continuum, Yntema said. Im excited to add on to the great work already being done and allow the mission of Hospice to be lived as broadly as possible in our community.
Two war refugees who immigrated to the United States were recognized for their fashion designs during Triad Goodwills eighth annual Rock the Runway fundraiser Feb. 24.
During the show, seven designers showcased collections of seven looks each, created from reconstructed Triad Goodwill store items, at the Elm Street Center in downtown Greensboro.
Florence Wallace, who was born in Liberia, won the Audience Choice award for her entire collection, as well as the News & Record Unconventional Material Challenge award for the best outfit made of newsprint. Wallace fled Liberias civil war and lived as a refugee in Nigeria and Ghana before moving to the United States.
The Judges Choice award went to Sanja Grgic with the top score for her collections originality, construction and creative use of materials. Grgic emigrated from the former Yugoslavia to Germany before moving to the United States.
Additional Rock the Runway designers were Lakeasha McCrimmon, Jessica Perry, Anndrea Robinson, Michelle Teague and Drew Waller.
Judges were Ashley Carter, creator and editor of FabEllis, a beauty, life and style blog; Susan Ladd, a News & Record columnist; and Lynn Wooten, a vice president at Well-Spring Services. WFMY News 2s Tracey McCain was the hostess for the event.
Proceeds benefit Triad Goodwills mission of providing free career development services for the unemployed and underemployed in Alamance, Caswell, Guilford, Randolph and Rockingham counties.
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, March 3
By Demir Azizov Trend:
Uzbekistans President Shavkat Mirziyoyev intends to take part in the next session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), to be held in September 2017 in New York.
Mirziyoyev expressed his intention in a message to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the occasion of 25th anniversary of Uzbekistans joining the UN that is marked on March 2.
The message also says that the membership at the United Nations gave Uzbekistan an opportunity to participate more actively and promote peace agenda, development and cooperation, to address a number of global and regional issues of our time at the global level.
Mirziyoyev received UN Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs Miroslav Jenca on March 2. During the meeting, the president affirmed Uzbekistans commitment to the strengthening of partnership relations with the UN and its organizations.
The Uzbek president also called on the UN to take part more actively in ongoing development processes in Uzbekistan and Central Asia.
The UN General Assembly holds annual sessions and the next 71st session will be held in September 2017.
Last time, Uzbekistan was represented at the UN General Assembly session by the countrys former president in 2010. Then, the countrys first President Islam Karimov delivered a speech at the UN summit on Millennium Development Goals.
GREENSBORO Any state-mandated class-size reductions should be paid for by the state, Gov. Roy Cooper said during a stop here Thursday afternoon.
You cant tell these local school districts to do this and that, and this and that, and not provide the right kind of funding, he said.
Cooper visited Guilford Child Developments Elm Street Center to tour the facility, meet with staff and promote the investments to early childhood education in his recently released state budget plan. The Democrats proposals which include 4,700 more spots in NC Pre-K, a state program designed to prepare at-risk 4-year-olds for school are just suggestions unless the Republican-dominated state legislature approves money for them.
Cooper took a wide range of questions from reporters, including one from the News & Record about the K-3 class-size reduction passed by state legislators last budget season and scheduled to take effect next school year.
Some school systems are worried about how they can hire enough teachers in time or pay for the change without significant budget cuts. Projecting $16.6 million in new costs and the need for 242 more teachers, the Guilford County Board of Education on Tuesday unanimously approved a resolution asking that any class-size reductions come with full funding, some flexibility and planning time.
I believe in smaller class size. I think it helps educational outcomes, but Im also ready to do what we need to do to fund public schools, Cooper said Thursday.
However, he said he didnt tackle the issue in his budget plan, released Wednesday.
Were ready to talk about it though, he said.
He touted his Best and Brightest budget proposal that would give $10,000 annual scholarships to students who agree to work in North Carolinas public schools for four years after graduation. That, he said, would help ensure additional teachers are available for hire if class sizes are decreased.
Legislators, hearing concerns from local school systems, seem interested in lessening the reductions required for next year.
Guilford County school board member Pat Tillman said during Tuesdays meeting that he thought the board could be encouraged by what he had heard in conversations with state legislators as of that afternoon. In February, legislators passed House Bill 13, a compromise bill that would make class-size decreases for 2017-18 less severe than the ones approved in 2016. The proposed legislation is still in flux, Tillman said, adding that he heard the rewrites were moving toward more flexibility for school systems.
Cooper held his media availability session Thursday in a preschool classroom with 4- and 5-year-old students.
I used to color paper plates, he told a group of children doing just that. He said hello to the children taking part in story time in the other corner too, but they seemed more interested in Howard B. Wigglebottom Learns to Listen than chatting up the governor.
The classroom is a blended Head Start-NC Pre-K classroom. Its mostly financed by Head Start, a federal program promoting school readiness for children in low-income families, but NC Pre-K pitches in enough money to pay for the higher quality standards of its program.
Guilford County has the largest number of prekindergarten slots of any county in the state even though its the third largest county, said Robin Britt, the executive director of Guilford Child Development, one of the countys largest nonprofits. He said thats because the countys child care community aggressively picks up slots other counties dont fill. Theres a waiting list here for families wanting to get in.
We would take as many as they would give us, he said.
The South Asian Fishermen Federation (SAFF) and International Fishermen Development Trust (INFIDET) have appealed to the Centre and the State governments to take immediate action to bring back 35 Tamil Nadu fishermen detained by the Iranian Coast Guard, The Hindu reported.
SAFF General Secretary Fr. Churchil along with the family members of the detained fishermen submitted a memorandum to Collector Sajjansingh R. Chavan here on Thursday.
They have sought for a pro-active action to bring back the fishermen who have been detained at the Iranian harbour Bhadher Resthani.
The fishermen 12 hailing from Kanniyakumari, seven from Tirunelveli and 16 from Ramanathapuram were detained in three batches on August 7, September 22 and December 27 last year by the Iranian Coast Guard when they ventured into sea in boats owned by the sponsors based at Saudi, Bahrain and Dubai on charges of crossing the International Maritime Border Line and entering into Iran waters.
Even though, the Indian fishermen paid the fine of Rs. 13.5 lakh as per the order of the Iran court, the Iranian Coast Guard refused to release the fishermen and their boats, alleged Fr. Churchil.
Fr. Churchil also alleged that the fishermen were denied food, clothing, shelter and medicine.
The fishermen were not even given drinking water, he alleged.
Earlier, INFIDET founder-president P. Justin Antony wrote a mail to the Iranian authorities, the Indian Embassy in Iran, the State and the Centre urging them to take quick action for the release of the fishermen.
Heading into March, 2017 has already been marked as a strange year for weather in Greenwich.
Prolonged drought conditions caused water shortages in the latter part of 2016, and normal rainfall in these early months isnt a sure sign that summer will bring Connecticuts water supply back on track, said Denise Savageau, Greenwichs Director of Conservation.
But the state is on the extreme end of the spectrum.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, only 7 percent of the United States was suffering from moderate to extreme drought conditions at the end of January.
The same measuring system, the Palmer Drought Index, also found that 12 percent of the United States is experiencing the opposite.
December of 2016 was Californias wettest month since 2010, as measured by the National Weather Service, and the state currently is experiencing record rain and snowfall.
But while California is coming out of drought conditions, the East Coast has been warming up faster than usual and maintaining dry conditions, the experts said.
More News State extends water restrictions in Stamford area
It has to do with the fact that we havent had a very active weather pattern for the eastern U.S. during the winter season, Andrew Orrison, an NWS meteorologist, told the Greenwich Time. Much of the active weather has been in the western United States. Storms are coming from the Pacific and not really the Atlantic or Gulf Coast.
Tom Di Liberto, in an article for the NOAA, explained that changes in wind patterns are making the area warmer.
The article states that mild winds that usually move farther south have been warming the northeastern regions of the country, and that the waters in the western Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico have been warmer than usual.
Looking forward, higher-than-normal temperatures should be expected this spring in Connecticut, according to the NSW Climate Prediction Center, but rainfall shouldnt bring the region out of the drought.
The way it looks right now, it doesnt look like we are going to get real wet anytime soon, Orrison said.
Riyadh and Kuala Lumpur expressed serious concerns over the Iranian interference in the internal affairs of countries in the region," as the Saudi king wrapped up his lavish trip to Malaysia on the first leg of a month-long Asia journey, PressTV reported.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi on Thursday rejected those accusations as "delusional," saying they are in line with Saudi Arabia's "improper, totally false, and targeted campaign, which is being waged at a very high cost" against the Islamic Republic.
The cultural influence and presence of a country has roots in its history, culture and civilization and is an inherent, cultural and quite natural and popular issue, which is basically not achievable through any military, economic and even political leverage, Qassemi said.
"The principled policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as an effective and peaceful country, is based on mutual respect and non-interference in the affairs of other countries," he said.
Iran's policy, he added, is also based on "coexistence and cooperation with all neighbors and countries of the region and the world in order to strengthen stability, security and peace and a relentless fight on terrorism."
Qassemi further stated that Iran's "advice to all Islamic countries is that they should analyze regional and global situations with more vigilance and care and avoid being drawn into disputes, which are against the principle of friendship and peaceful relationship."
Baku, Azerbaijan, Mar. 3
By Orkhan Quluzade Trend:
It is necessary to build the Kars-Igdir-Nakhchivan railway in addition to the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway in order to transport cargos from east to west, Ahmet Arslan, Turkeys minister of transport, maritime and communication, said Mar. 3, Turkish media reported.
The Kars-Igdir-Nakhchivan railway will be an additional corridor connecting Turkey with Iran and Pakistan, Arslan noted.
The minister added that the prospect of development of these railway corridors was discussed during the 13th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) held in Pakistan.
Arslan said the construction of the BTK has neared its final stage, adding that new railway projects will attract additional investments to Turkey.
The BTK railway is being constructed on the basis of the Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkey intergovernmental agreement.
Peak capacity of the railway will be 17 million tons of cargo per year. At the initial stage, it will serve one million passengers and transport 6.5 million tons of cargo.
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Follow the author on Twitter: @o_quluzade
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According to the Pajhwok news agency, 149 militants were killed and 73 others were injured during the operations carried out in eight provinces of the country.
The security forces also killed three Taliban commanders in eastern Laghman and central Logar provinces, the agency reported.
There were no casualties reported among the Afghan security forces.
Afghanistan is in a state of political and social turmoil, with government forces fighting the continuing Taliban insurgency. The instability has persisted in the country since the 2001 US-led invasion to defeat the Taliban and al-Qaeda in the wake of the 9/11 attacks in the United States.
The lack of control and instability turned the country into home to the largest opium poppy production and distribution network in the world.
The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, as well as the Afghanistan-based US forces are currently conducting joint offensive operations to combat terrorism across the country.
Haiti - FLASH : Prime Minister filled his documents in the Senate
Thursday, Prime Minister Jack Guy Lafontant, after his appointment https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20176-haiti-flash-jovenel-moise-chosen-dr-jack-guy-lafontant-as-prime-minister.html and his presentation https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20195-haiti-flash-error-of-protocol-office-pm-not-inaugurated.html , has reached a new stage. Accompanied by the former Minister of the Interior, Ardouin Zepherin, he filled shortly after 3 p.m., the documents required by the Constitution, to the General Secretariat of the Senate.
According to Dr. Rony Gilot, Secretary General of the Upper House, the Prime Minister appointed filled a dozen documents "We received this afternoon the Prime Minister appointed. He deposited a set of documents required by the Constitution. According to the law, there will be a Commission [to examine the conformity of the documents submitted by the PM appointed under Article 157 of the Constitution] to be formed at the next plenary meeting, Tuesday, March 7," specifying "There are no missing pieces, all the pieces have been deposited" underlining that everything will be done according to the procedures.
If the documents are in conformity, Jack Guy Lafontant will be invited to present his statement of General Policy, accompanied by his ministerial cabinet.
The Prime Minister appointed, filled among other things, a copy of Le Moniteur officially appointing him as Prime Minister, his National Identification Card (CIN), his Tax Registration Number (NIF), his certificate of nationality, his residence certificate, travel documents, final declaration of taxes, birth certificate, birth certificate of mother and father...
For his part, the Prime Minister appointed in a statement to the media said, "In accordance with the Constitution, I am here in Parliament, the People's House, to deposit the documents required by the Constitution. Very soon I will come for my statement of General Policy [...]"
It should be noted that the Commission's report must be submitted to the Assembly during the ratification session before the General Policy Statement.
HL/ HaitiLibre
Haiti - NOTICE : Call for proposals of the Disability Rights Fund
The Disability Rights Fund is a grantmaking collaborative that provides grants to disabled persons organizations (DPOs) to strengthen their participation in the advancement of human rights and disability-inclusive development.
The Disability Rights Fund has two funding rounds per year: Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are publicized in February (Round 1) and July (Round 2). Each round addresses a different set of countries. For some countries, there is a two-step process that requires a Letter of Interest be submitted for review before organizations are asked to submit a full proposal.
2017 Countries
Round 1 countries: Ghana (by invitation only), Haiti, Indonesia (by invitation only), Malawi, and Myanmar.
A Letter of Interest (LoI) process was opened on January 5, 2017 to applicants from Indonesia who did not receive any DRF or DRAF funding in 2016. Successful LoI applicants from Indonesia, current Indonesian grantees, invited DRF/DRAF grantees from Ghana, and any DPOs from Haiti, Malawi, and Myanmar can submit full proposals following publication of the Request for Proposals (RFP) on February 9, 2017. Information about the RFP is described in more details bellow.
Deadline for submission of an application for funding is March 16, 2017.
Interested organizations are invited to read the eligibility criteria and all the details of the application as soon as possible on the Fund's website : https://www.disabilityrightsfund.org/for-grantseekers/
All questions about the application process should be directed to : info@disabilityrightsfund.org
HL/ HaitiLibre
Haiti - News : Zapping politics...
FLASH State Lottery recruits
The State Lottery of Haiti wants to recruit young people of both sexes for the sale of the tickets of the "LOTO 90" on the occasion of its 90th anniversary on on April 6. Interested parties may go to the premises of the lottery at # 37 Rue Pacot in Port-au-Prince. They must bring their national identification card and two recent photos. Deadline March 6, 2017
Seizure of used cooking oil
From 13th to 18th February, a search and seizure operation of used cooking oil (huile de poule) was carried out in the warehouses and communal markets of the department of the North-West considered as a bastion of distribution and the sale of this product. This operation, carried out in the North-West, follows the notice on the prohibition of the sale of used oil in the territory issued by the Ministries of Trade, Health, Agriculture and the Economy https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-19994-haiti-notice-sale-of-adulterated-products-and-used-cooking-oil.html
See also :
https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-19994-haiti-notice-sale-of-adulterated-products-and-used-cooking-oil.html
https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-18248-haiti-flash-danger-used-cooking-oil-imported-into-the-country.html
Results Special session of the Bac for soon
The correction of the copies of the exams of the special session of the permanent baccalaureate organized from February 20 to 23, 2017 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-19991-haiti-education-d-17-special-session-permanent-bac-for-students-that-failed.html , for the unsuccessful candidates of the Terminale (Philo), ends, the Ministry of Education is preparing to publish the results no later than Monday, March 6, 2017 according to Renan Michel, Director of the National Office of the State Exams (BUNEXE) https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20136-haiti-reminder-d-2-permanent-bac-2017-instructions-to-follow.html to follow on HaitiLibre next Monday.
Sandra Honore wishes the fast installation of the government
Sandra Honore, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Haiti, welcomed the appointment of Jack Guy Lafontant as Prime Minister, whose general policy still needs to be ratified by Parliament. She called for the establishment of a government as soon as possible in order to create a climate of stability in Haiti and to promote essential elements that could improve the living conditions of Haitians. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20244-haiti-flash-prime-minister-filled-his-documents-in-the-senate.html
Passing of Tierry Gardere : Messages of sympathy
Embassy of Haiti in Washington :
"It is with great regret that we learned of the passing away of Thierry Gardere, the General Director of Rhum Barbancourt on March 1, 2017. We, at the Embassy of Haiti in Washington, DC offer our deepest condolences and ceases this opportunity to honor the life of the man behind Haiti's best known export and celebrate his contributions in the Haitian community and beyond. May you rest in peace."
The Association of Industries of Haiti (ADIH) :
"It is with great shock and sadness that we learned of the passing of Mr Thierry Gardere - Chairman and CEO of Rhum Barbancourt. Mr Thierry Gardere, a founding member and former President of ADIH, was a pillar of the private sector and a great patron of Haitian cultural activities. He represented the 4th generation of Rhum Barbancourt company which is the oldest agro-industrial company in the country (more than 150 years) and the largest producer of rum. We present our sincere condolences to his family, the business and cultural sectors," wrote in a note Georges B. Sassine, President of the ADIH.
See also :
https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20236-haiti-flash-thierry-gardere-dg-of-barbancourt-passed-away.html
HL/ HaitiLibre
The fourth round of UN-backed intra-Syrian talks between the government and opposition factions kicked off in Geneva last week and concluded on Friday, Sputnik reported.
On the basis of the indications that I will be getting both from the Secretary General [UN] and the Security Council, I am planning to invite the Syrian invitees back here in March for a fifth round, De Mistura said at a press briefing.
In this round of talks, de Mistura said, the participants agreed to discuss at settlement negotiations all four "baskets" of topical issues for crisis resolution governance, constitution, elections and counterterrorism in parallel.
"We have a clear methodology to proceed and we have agreed on that within the intra-Syrian talks process the baskets will be addressed in a parallel way," de Mistura told reporters.
He added he had no plans to invite new participants to a fresh round of Syria proximity talks in Geneva in March.
"My inclination is not to invite new groups in order to make my job more complicated, but actually to stimulate those who would like to be part of it to come into one common umbrella," de Mistura said at a news briefing following the closure of the fourth round of intra-Syrian talks in Geneva.
Published on 2017/03/02 | Source
Middle aged actor Min Wook passed away due to cancer.
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He was diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago and passed away on the 1st of March. He made his debut through KBS in 1969 and starred in various dramas. His recent drama was the 2010 KBS 2TV drama "Marry Me, Please".
He has a son and three daughters. His funeral will be held at the Sunchunhyang Hospital VIP hall in Seoul.
Turkey will attack the terrorist PKK/PYD in Manbij, northern Syria "unless the group withdraws," Turkeys foreign minister said Thursday, Anadolu reported.
Speaking to journalists outside the Turkish parliament in Ankara, Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Turkey and the United States "must not face off against each other because of Turkey's fight against other terrorist groups," meaning groups besides Daesh, the main focus of Turkeys Operation Euphrates Shield in northern Iraq.
"We do not wish any of our allies to stand with terrorist groups," Cavusoglu said. "We stated earlier that Turkey will hit the YPG unless they withdraw from Manbij."
The YPG is the armed wing of the terrorist group PKK/PYD in Syria.
Cavusoglu also said that with an operation on Manbij, the aim is to leave the area to "its true owners."
Cavusoglu said Ankara and Washington are currently discussing how to implement a possible Raqqah operation and how Turkey would support the operation.
"There are other coalition countries that are active in the field like France, Germany, and the United Kingdom," Cavusoglu said. "We are discussing issues such as how we will do air support."
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had said that Turkish-backed Free Syrian Army fighters could lead the Raqqa offensive.
While the Obama administration saw the PYD as a reliable ally, Turkey has consistently stressed that it is part and parcel of the terrorist PKK.
The new Trump administrations policy on the PYD is still emerging.
Since it resumed its armed campaign in July 2015, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of approximately 1,200 security personnel and civilians, including women and children.
The PKK/PYD has been accused by human rights groups of committing significant human rights violations in northern and northeastern Syria, including "ethnic cleansing" massacres.
The Turkish-led Operation Euphrates Shield began last August to improve security, support coalition forces, and eliminate the terror threat along the Turkish border using Free Syrian Army fighters backed by Turkish artillery and jets.
Turkish foreign minister will meet his German counterpart on March 8 in Germany, a Turkish diplomatic source said Friday, Anadolu reported.
According to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on talking to the media, Sigmar Gabriel phoned Mevlut Cavusoglu on Friday to discuss a decision by a German local authority to cancel permission for a Thursday meeting where Turkey's justice minister was scheduled to address the Turkish community.
During the phone conservation, Cavusoglu expressed Turkey's discomfort over the incident, the source said.
On Thursday, the municipality of Gaggenau in southwest Germany revoked its permission for Bekir Bozdag's meeting, citing concerns about overcrowding. This prompted Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag to cancel his planned visit to Germany.
Cavusoglu also had a phone conversation with British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, and the two discussed current political and international developments, and humanitarian aid to Syria, the same source added.
Watches are not rocket science. Or are they? Watches are not rocket...
Perhaps you dont have a PhD. Well, thats a shame, because with some watches, youll need one to understand how to tell the time. Perhaps you dont have a PhD. Well,...
Use the CRA to Repeal Dept. of Interior Rule that Tries to Create Unconstitutional Native Hawaiian Government
From Judicial Watch, February 22, 2017
The Department of the Interior (DOI) last year promulgated a rule intended to provide a way to organize a Native Hawaiian government that could seek a government-to-government relationship with the United States. In plain English, this is an attempt to grant tribal status to Native Hawaiians by executive decree. The means for accomplishing this would be a vote, restricted by the regulation to those who had at least one drop of Native Hawaiian blood.
This atrocious rule, which is almost certainly unconstitutional, should immediately be repealed. Congress has the power to do so now under the Congressional Review Act (CRA). This law allows Congress a certain time to object to any new rule if it believes, for example, that an agency has overstepped its legal authority. If the President agrees, the rule is repealed.
The DOIs regulation amounts to (another) attempt by the now-departed Obama Administration to use an executive order to circumvent Congress and the Constitution. Under art. I, 8, Congress is vested with the authority to regulate commerce with Indian tribes. This has been interpreted to mean that Congress has complete power to make this decision. Starting in 2000 and for more than a decade, Hawaiis Senator Akaka tried to convince Congress to pass the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act, popularly known as the Akaka Bill. The Akaka Bill would have granted Native Hawaiians a pathway to federal tribal status. But Congress never passed the bill.
Switching tactics, the Obama Administration decided to try to accomplish the same thing by executive action. Relying on a hodgepodge of federal statutes, the DOI argued that a special or trust relationship existed between the U.S. government and Native Hawaiians, and that this provided the basis for the DOI to adopt a regulation creating a pathway to Native Hawaiian tribal status. This approach is dishonest. The federal government has never recognized Native Hawaiians as a sovereign entity like other Indian tribes. If it had, there would have been no need for the Akaka Bill. When members of Congress expended political energy for more than a decade trying to pass that bill, were they wasting their time? The DOIs regulation is based on a fiction and ignores the obvious: Native Hawaiians have not been granted federal tribal status because Congress rejected the effort to do so.
Even worse is what the DOIs regulation does. It requires members of the Native Hawaiian community to adopt a governing document meaning a constitution and then to submit that document to a ratification vote. Under the DOIs regulation, that ratification vote would be restricted to voters who can prove that they were descendants of the aboriginal people who, prior to 1778, occupied and exercised sovereignty in the area that now constitutes the State of Hawaii. A single drop of blood is enough to be allowed to vote. This is the same ugly standard applied during the Jim Crow era to define a person as black for the purposes of the segregation statutes.
Such a rule would define more than 500,000 Americans as Native Hawaiian. (Only 1.3 million people live in Hawaii.) If such a tribe ever were formed, it would instantly become the largest tribe in the United States, by a wide margin. Indeed, this looks more like a secession movement that the designation of a tribe. When Hawaii tried to take advantage of this regulation by holding an election restricted to Native Hawaiians, using the same definition as the DOI, Judicial Watch sued on the grounds that this constituted racial discrimination in violation of the Constitution. (Akina v. State of Hawaii, No. 15-322.) The Supreme Court appeared to agree when it granted an injunction in December 2015 stopping the election. Hawaii later abandoned its efforts to hold such an election.
This is a strong sign that the Supreme Court would also enjoin any other attempt to hold a racially exclusive, Native Hawaiian election. The DOIs rule is nothing but an invitation to violate the Constitution. It should be repealed now under the CRA.
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WARD CALLS LEGISLATORS "SITTING DUCKS" AT THE STATE CAPITOL
News Release from Office of Rep Gene Ward, March 3, 2017
Representative Gene Ward (R District 17, Hawaii Kai) today requested the Department of Accounting and General Services for more security protection at the State Capitol because of its total lack of any security measures. (See attached letter.)
"Not a single employee or visitor is ever asked to show an ID, questioned, searched, or put through a metal detector to enter the building to visit a senator, a representative, or even the governor. With absolutely no security measures at the State Capitol it is time to stop pretending that we're safe just because we're in Hawaii, Ward said.
For example, last month there was a constant stream of states leaders, department heads and community and business leaders to listen to the "State of the State" or the "State of the Judiciary" address. Every one of these leaders could have been wiped out by a single vehicle speeding by the Father Damien statue and crashing into the House or Senate Chamber and detonating a truckload of explosives.
Ward is calling for more security measures and has offered an immediate and cost-free solution to prevent this. He is proposing to move the tree planters adjacent to the Capitol reflecting pools and move them in a row next to the Father Damien statute as a means of preventing any vehicles from breaching the Capitol's perimeter. (See attached photo).
There is a tendency for us to think we are safe and immune from any possible attack because we live on a beautiful peaceful island. But we cannot afford to be complacent about our security anymore. We're sitting ducks at the Capitol and no one seems to be paying attention, especially the legislature," Ward concluded.
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KITV: Lawmaker calls for increased security at Hawaii State Capitol
2-year-old man has died after a heavy metal beam fell on his torso and crushed him while he was working on a barge at Sydneys Darling Harbour.Rigger Tim Macpherson from Newcastle had been working at the at the Barangaroo Ferry Hub worksite for at least six months.The Maritime Union of Australia spokesman Paul Keating said he attempted to inspect the site in November 2016. At the time, he was notified about concerns that the barge being used did not comply with maritime standards."At the time I came down with another official to speak with the workers to have a look at the barge to assess if it was up to maritime standard and to make sure that the operation was safe," he said."I was met with opposition from the contractor, McConnell Dowell, in accessing the site, after which I contacted Roads and Maritime Services to find out whether the vessel was up to standard."These companies refuse our right on entry even when we raise these issues of safety with them."McConnell Dowell's Australian managing director, Jim Frith, said in a statement that the company's thoughts were with the man's family."We are providing his employer with all the assistance they need to support his family, and all affected staff are being offered support and counselling,'' the statement said."The full circumstances are unknown at this time and McConnell Dowell will continue to work with the authorities as they investigate the incident."Moreover, the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union's (CFMEU) state secretary Brian Parker said the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC), was making work sites more dangerous by preventing unions from visiting them.However, Minister for Employment Michaelia Cash said the CFMEU was dishonest to claim any link between the ABCC and yesterday's workplace death."The ABCC is not a safety regulator and it is highly dishonest for the CFMEU to claim that it is in any way related to this matter," she said in a statement."It is utterly disgraceful that any union would seek to politicise a workplace death, particularly given the incident occurred less than 24 hours ago."Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull also rejected claims government changes are to blame for MacPhersons death and sent his condolences to his family.Every industrial accident is a tragedy and our condolences go, our sympathies go to the family, said Turnbull.SafeWork NSW is investigating the accident.
Citing practical considerations, China reminded India that it needs to be more enterprising in its approach to allow their relations to grow further. (Photo : Getty Images)
Chinese state media called on India to accept its unequal position in its bilateral ties with China, citing China's own experience in relenting its own interests to gain more from its relations with the U.S. This comes amid India's current lamentations over unresolved issues with China.
India is currently contesting China's block against its admission to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), as well as the technical hold on Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammad leader Masood Azhar's designation as a terrorist by the UN Security Council, which China justified based on procedural rules.
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Citing practical considerations, China reminded India that it needs to be more enterprising in its approach to allow their relations to grow further. Mending differences should be India's goal in its interaction with China, state-run Global Times reported.
China acknowledges the state of India's self-esteem considering its relatively marginalized position in their relations, saying that its disparity with its economically stronger neighbor may prove to be a bane to its confidence as it plays "second fiddle" in their bilateral ties.
Such has taken off from the dialogue held by China's Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui and Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar, both of which discussed topics on China-India bilateral ties that include India's impending NSG membership and Azhar's status before the U.N. Security Council.
Nonetheless, China has encouraged India not to take its weaker position as a disadvantage, and instead use it as an opportunity to grow as the world becomes increasingly multipolar. China-India bilateral ties, in that sense, should be built on convergences rather than be hindered by divergences.
Although India still expects resolutions for its demands, building its relationship with China beyond those problems is a move imbued with great importance, as the world braces for their growing economic power. A cooperative relationship between the two emerges is increasingly becoming more significant.
(Bloomberg) Bets on marijuana companies helped an Australian manager soar 145 percent last year to become the worlds best-performing hedge fund.
Stock and credit investments in North American marijuana producers contributed to 22 percentage points of last years gain for the $200 million Tribeca Global Natural Resources Fund, said Sydney-based Ben Cleary, who co-manages the pool with Craig Evans. The fund has advanced 4 percent this year through February, Cleary said.
To read the entire article, click here.
The Guardian took an in-depth look at Europes growing wolf population, using Finlands situation as a case in point. Legalizing euthanasia was a talking point in parliament, while President Sauli Niinisto voiced his security concerns to the rest of Europe. Finally, education in Finland is making a technological shift and men in Florida carry their wives on their back.
Wolves on the rise in Finlands forests
The Guardian
Finland has a wolf problem. Five and a half million humans share the country with an estimated 235 wolves, and thats too many, say rural Finns, whose livestock and hunting dogs are being killed."
"Some parents are scared that wolves will attack their children. For the past three years, the government has assuaged these fears with a wolf cull. Last winter, 43 wolves were killed in a management hunt, while total fatalities numbered 78, including problem wolves shot by police and road casualties.
This winter, Helsinki authorised another cull, permitting the death of 53 wolves, to include those shot by police and traffic fatalities. The cull is controversial: the wolf is a protected, endangered species. Critics say Finland is in breach of EU law. A candlelit vigil for slaughtered wolves took place in Helsinki last month, and a wolf hunt saboteur group has sprung up on social media."
In this apparently calm and phlegmatic country, the wolf polarises opinion.
Original article was published by on 25/02/2017 and can be found here.
Parliament considers legalizing euthanasia
Expatica
Finland's parliament on Thursday debated a citizens' initiative to make euthanasia legal, a widely supported cause in the Nordic country.
""A law on euthanasia is needed to add an alternative at life's end for those who cannot get sufficient relief to their unbearable agonies even from the finest of palliative treatment," the initiative read.
In Finland, citizens can require parliament to debate an issue by gathering a minimum of 50,000 signatures.
Thursday's debate was just the first step in the parliamentary process. A special committee will draft a more detailed memorandum for lawmakers to consider at a later, undisclosed date.
Original article was published by on 02/03/2017 and can be found here.
President Sauli Niinisto urges EU to boost security
BloombergQuint
Finland is urging Europe to increase NATO contributions and focus more on security as the continent grapples with political turmoil from all sides, including from within.
Once the UK has quit the European Union, the 27 nations left behind need to double down on the blocs founding principle and give the remaining 444 million citizens what they most crave: security, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said in an interview at his seaside residence in Helsinki on Friday.
The comments come as a spate of elections threatens to deepen the EUs biggest existential crisis in its 60-year history. The bloc is also being challenged in the east by Russia and in the west by a new US administration that has predicted its disintegration, just over four years after it won the Nobel Peace Prize.
Original article was published by on 27/02/2017 and can be found here.
Finnish curriculum adapts to changing technology
Channel NewsAsia
Finland, an economy once dominated by forestry-based industries, has redesigned its education system to embrace the digital age and the more collaborative working world of the future.
Ms Anita Lehikoinen, permanent secretary of Finlands Ministry of Education and Culture, estimated that a third of the jobs today would be replaced by automation, robotics and artificial intelligence in the near future.
She said: Robots, automation, digital devices, they can take care of much of the work today. But where we need human beings are actually the soft skills. This is the new idea behind the new curriculum.
Original article was published by on 26/02/2017 and can be found here.
Finlands centenary celebrated in Florida
Palm Beach Post
The Midnight Sun festival takes place every year in Lake Worth, the American city with the highest concentration of people of Finnish descent. Due to this year being Finland's 100th anniversary, organizers are doing everything they can to make the 2017 festival an extra special one.
This year's lineup will include Hanna Pakarinen, winner of Finnish Idol in 2004. Finnair is sponsoring the event and will fly the performers and their crew from Finland to Florida for the festival.
It appears the event will also include a wife carrying contest, with the article claiming that no Finnish festival is complete without a man hoisting his wife over his shoulder and running through an obstacle course.
Original article was published by on 01/03/2017 and can be found here.
Dan Anderson
Helsinki Times
Photo Lehtikuva
The bromance between South Korean superstars Park Go Bum and Song Joong Ki is undeniable. The former is known for playing Lee Yeong in "Moonlight Drawn by Clouds" while the latter is known for playing Yoo Shi Jin in "Descendants of the Sun" opposite Song Hye Kyo as Kang Mo Yeon.
It will be interesting to see Park and Joong Ki star in a bromance film. To make it even more interesting, Hye Kyo should be included in the cast as the third wheel.
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Park has yet to make a big screen comeback since the 2015 drama film "Coin Locker Girl." Written and directed by Han Jun Hee, the film also stars Lee Sang Hee, Go Kyung Pyo, Eom Tae Goo, Ryu Yong Hwa, Kim Go Eun and Kim Hye Su, among others.
The days before Valentine's Day, Park was in Thailand for a fan meeting. Prior to the event, almost 4,000 fans welcomed him at the airport.
"Although it was late when I arrived in Thailand, there were so many fans at the airport that I was surprised," Soompi quoted Park as saying. Expressing his gratitude for the fans' intentions to welcome him, he suggested that it would be good if they do not stay out late and go home early instead although he could fully feel their hearts.
Park went on to praise the smiles of his Thai fans calling them extremely memorable. His fans enthusiastically cheered when he showed his photos from visits to several places in Thailand.
One of the highlights of the fan meeting was the surprise appearance of Joong Ki. Before the audience, the two South Korean actors did not hesitate to display their affection for each other, which make their fans fancy a film starring the two.
After the 2012 romantic fantasy film "A Werewolf Boy," Joong Ki is returning to the big screen in the upcoming film "Battleship Island." He is also set to make a cameo in "Man to Man," according to Officially KMusic.
Watch Park at the Asia Artist Awards 2016 here:
Song Joong-ki thinks Park Go Bum is handsome? Descendants of the Sun star to appear in Man to Man
Song Joong-Ki and Park Bo-Gum laugh during the fan meeting of the latter in Bangkok, Thailand on Feb. 11, 2017. (Photo : YouTube/Ruhi Le)
Fans of "Descendants of the Sun" star Song Joong Ki and "Moonlight Drawn by Clouds" star Park Go Bum know that the two South Korean superstars are great friends. The two were both in Thailand on Feb. 11 for an event.
The event was a meeting of Park and his fans. Song appeared as a surprise guest and the fans were treated to a live view of the bromance between the two actors.
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"Lee Young in 'Moonlight Drawn By Clouds' was really handsome and interesting," Soompi quoted Song as saying. Before this, Park showered the "Descendants of the Sun" star with praises and kind words.
Before the fan meeting ended, Park thanked his Thai fans and promised to work hard to become a person who can positively influence the lives of everyone who has given me warm strength. He emphasized that he wanted the positive influence to last for a long time.
There are still no details about Park's next TV project after playing Lee Yeong in "Moonlight Drawn by Clouds." On the other hand, Joong Ki is set to make a cameo in "Man to Man," a drama series about a popular actor (Park Sung Woong) and his bodyguard (Park Hae Jin).
Written by Kim Won Suk and directed Lee Chang Min, "Man to Man" will premiere in South Korea on April 21 and it will air Fridays and Saturdays on JTBC. The upcoming series will also star Oh Na Ra, Lee Si Un, Jeong Man Sik, Tae In Ho, Jang Hyun Sung, Cheon Ho Jin, Chae Jung An, Yeon Jeong Hun and Kim Min Jung.
On Dec. 13, 2016, still images were published by Asian Wiki showing Hae Jin filming prison scenes in Budapest, Hungary. Watch behind-the-scenes clips here:
The Legend of the Blue Sea star Lee Min Ho is Actor of the Year
Lee Min Ho attends a press conference for a commercial event on September 11, 2014 in Taipei, Taiwan. (Photo : Getty Images/Ashley Pon)
Lee Min Ho is still the top actor in South Korea. Recently, he played Heo Joon Jae in "The Legend of the Blue Sea" opposite Jun Ji Hyun as Shim Chung.
At the 12th Annual Soompi Awards, Lee was declared the Actor of the Year. Voted by hallyu fans from 139 countries across the globe, the winners of the annual survey were announced on March 2, Thursday, by Soompi.
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With Fuse and ZANYBROS as partners, the United States-based online news provider specializing in Korean pop culture received almost 100 million votes from Dec. 19, 2016 to Jan. 16. There were 29 categories in the survey.
Before winner the Actor of the Year award at the 12th Annual Soompi Awards, Lee was awarded the grand prize at the 2017 National Brand Awards. The actor attended the awarding ceremony at the National Assembly Hall in Seoul, South Korea, on Feb. 22, Wednesday.
"I traveled around the globe so many times over the past few years. I was so touched to see people (overseas) trying to write or speak Korean to me," Korea Herald quoted Lee as saying during his acceptance speech. "I will further try to contribute to Korea's brand image."
Lee was given the 2017 National Brand Awards recognition for his contribution to the international promotion of the Korean Wave. "The Legend of the Blue Sea" actor is also a goodwill ambassador for the 2016-18 Visit Korea Year promotion.
Before starring in "The Legend of the Blue Sea," Lee appeared as himself in "Seven First Kisses." On the big screen, he played Li San in "Bounty Hounters," which also starred Wallace Chung, Yan Tang, Jones Xu, Karena Ng and Siu-Wong Fan.
In 2015, Lee starred in "Gangnam Blues" with Kim Rae Won and Kim Ji Su. It was written and directed by Ha Yoo.
Watch a video of 12th Annual Soompi Awards here:
Mob boss John Gilligan has contacted gardai claiming that he had to be hospitalised after his heart stopped three times in a brazen bid not to be evicted from his home, the Herald has learned.
Gilligan went to Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown on Sunday complaining of chest pains and remained in the facility until Tuesday, when he was discharged.
Sources have revealed that Gilligan has since contacted gardai to say that his "heart stopped three times".
Armed
Gardai were forced to increase armed patrols around the hospital in case there was another attempt to murder the pint-sized thug, who has survived two previous attempts on his life.
"It is understood that Gilligan is attempting to use his so-called health problems as a ruse to stay in his property," a source said last night.
"It is just more whingeing out of him."
Earlier this week, the Herald revealed that the twisted 65-year-old wants the country's taxpayers to fund a new home for him after he lost three properties to the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB).
The convicted drug trafficker presented himself at council offices in Blanchardstown, claiming that he is facing homelessness.
It has also emerged that he is to take his case to the European Court of Human Rights in a bid to hang on to the three seized properties.
Last month, the crime lord lost a Supreme Court appeal, in which he challenged proceeds of crime orders in relation to some of his assets.
Seize
The five-judge court ruled that the CAB is entitled to seize the three properties linked to Gilligan, including the Jessbrook Equestrian Centre in Enfield, Co Meath.
The criminal has been living in the grounds but CAB is preparing to seize it.
Other property owned by his former wife Geraldine, daughter Tracy and son Darren were also found to be the proceeds of crime.
Gilligan is believed to have raked in millions during the 1990s, when he was flooding the country with drugs.
He spent 17 years in prison for drug trafficking and is widely believed to have ordered the murder of Sunday Independent journalist Veronica Guerin in 1996.
Last week, the Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal by Brian Meehan over the rejection of his claim that his conviction for the murder of the journalist was a miscarriage of justice.
In a published determination, a three-judge Supreme Court ruled that Meehan (48), from Crumlin, Dublin, had not met the criteria for an appeal to the court.
Meehan sought an appeal against the Court of Appeal's April 2016 judgment rejecting his claim that his conviction for the murder of Ms Guerin was a miscarriage of justice.
He was convicted in 1999 of the murder of the journalist after the Special Criminal Court found that Meehan was the driver of a motorcycle that pulled up alongside Ms Guerin's car on June 26, 1996.
She died after the pillion passenger shot her.
The helicopter was destroyed in seconds in the crash in 2015
The pilot of a helicopter was "focused on a bollard" when his blades ripped into a bar and restaurant in Longford.
The owner of the restaurant was caught on video trying to move tables as the helicopter pilot closed in on the "unsuitable" landing space in July 2015.
It then slammed into a timber-clad wall of the Rustic Inn in Abbeyshrule, Co Longford.
The helicopter was destroyed in a matter of seconds and significant damage was caused to the building.
There were three people in the function room on the other side of the wall. One suffered a cut under his eye and another fell as a group of onlookers ran from the crash scene.
Neither the pilot nor his passenger was harmed.
Hazards
A report was released yesterday by the Air Accident Investigation Unit, which found that the pilot tried to land in an "inappropriate" area that was "very confined".
He was trying to land on a narrow canal bank between the Rustic Inn and the Royal Canal, which was said to have many hazards.
Investigators said that neither Waterways Ireland nor the owner of the Rustic Inn was asked for permission to land.
The owner of the inn said he heard a bang and everyone in the function room ended up on the floor.
A window on the ground floor was broken and glass and debris were strewn across the room.
A radiator in the first floor bedroom was also said to have been torn from its wall mountings.
The pilot said he was "completely aware" where the helicopter's blades were in relation to the building.
He told the investigation team he was "concentrating on a bollard, which I knew was there for tying down the boats on the side of the canal, and I was concentrating on where that was to the skid".
He said he "turned over to look for it and lost concentration".
The tail of the helicopter was severed and landed in the canal.
The helicopter was allowed to fly by the UK's Civil Aviation Authority, which would have allowed it to operate in Ireland for up to 28 days without specific permission. However, because it was an ex-military aircraft, it needed permission.
The report said that the Irish Aviation Authority had told the investigation it had not received a request for the helicopter to operate in Ireland.
Filmmaker Louis Theroux immersed himself in some of the most "dysfunctional and disturbing aspects of American society" for three new documentaries airing later this year.
The broadcaster uncovered and learned about some of the major difficulties faced by the US population, including sex trafficking, opiate use and murder, in the cities of Houston, Huntington and Milwaukee.
The "challenging" films will air on BBC Two and follow on from Theroux's successful 2016 feature-length effort My Scientology Movie.
"I immerse myself in some of the most dysfunctional and disturbing aspects of American society," said Theroux.
"They combine hard-hitting actuality with intimate interviews.
Perpetrators
"I have been granted access to the police in several states. I've got to know the people affected by crime and I've also spent time with the perpetrators of crime, with the idea of understanding the causes of it, both on a systemic level and also in a very personal way," he added.
Houston, Texas, is thought to be the main location for human trafficking in North America, and in one film Theroux spends time with women working in the city's sex industry.
As well as working with local law enforcement, Theroux goes to the county jail and learns about the criminal justice system's struggles to help the women caught within their often exploitative lifestyle.
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, considered one of America's most racially divided and impoverished cities, Theroux spends time with the local police department on patrol.
The third film is based on Theroux's travels to Huntington, West Virginia - a city that sees one in 10 babies born addicted to opiates and which has a fatal overdose rate 13 times the national average.
BBC Two controller Patrick Holland said the forthcoming films will be a "real event".
"This trilogy promises to be hugely timely and challenging, it has never been more important to engage with the forces shaping modern America."
Fuqing Nuclear Power Plant when completed (concept). (Photo : NEA)
China has built or will build 21 new nuclear reactors over the next decade as it strives to wean itself away from coal whose pollution is making many of its major cities unlivable and health hazards for its residents.
Of this total, the construction of five should be finished within the year. The construction of eight more reactors will start this year while planning for eight more will be advanced, also this year, according to China's National Energy Administration (NEA) in its Energy Work Guidance Opinion for 2017 published in February.
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NEA expects completion within the year of the Sanmen 1 reactor for the Sanmen Nuclear Power Station; the Haiyang 1 AP1000 units at the Haiyang Nuclear Power Plant; the Taishan 1 European Pressurized Reactor at the Taishan Nuclear Power Plant; the Fuqing 4 reactor at the Fuqing Power Plant and the CPR-1000 units at the Yanjiang Nuclear Power Station.
Together with "other projects," these rectors will add some 6.41 GWe of nuclear generating capacity to the national grid. NEA's plan calls for the safe development of nuclear power throughout China.
NEA plans to begin construction of eight nuclear reactors this year, but did not name them or what type of reactors these will be.
Preparatory work will also to be carried out this year on eight other units. These include units 3 and 4 of Sanmen; Ningde units 5 and 6 and two units each at new plants at Zhangzhou in Fujian and Huizhou in Guangdong. These will add 9.86 GWe of nuclear generating capacity to the grid together with the other projects.
NEA will actively promote the construction of "qualified" nuclear power projects and push for an orderly approval of power plants built along the coast. NEA also said it will continue to implement major nuclear power science and technology projects.
It will also push the construction of the high-temperature gas-cooled demonstration project in Shidaowan in Shandong.
China to Fire 2.3 Million Coal and Steel Workers in Two Years
Since labor unions are forbidden in China, Wu and other Longhua miners have taken to WeChat, a social media app, to organize and let their demands be heard. (Photo : Weibo)
China will again flirt with massive social unrest after it announced new plans to slash 500,000 more jobs in the steel industry that's producing more steel than the market needs, and the coal industry whose product is causing the massive pollution endangering the health of millions of Chinese.
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Triggering the cuts is China's rapidly slowing economy, which is having difficulty transitioning from a maker of cheap goods powered by cheap labor to a technological economy where innovation and technology guarantee economic growth.
China makes more than half the world's steel, but the stubborn economic slowdown and weak global demand has left the industry with a massive over supply.
Yin Weimin, Minister of Human Resources and Social Security, announced the new cuts and said the laid-off workers will enter a job placement program or be offered early retirement.
The communist government in 2016 announced plans to do away with a total of 1.8 million steel and coal jobs. It cut about 726,000 jobs in 2016.
"The whole process was smooth and orderly," said Yin of last year's firings.
"There were no major conflicts or issues."
But there have been protests and street rallies slamming the lay-offs. In April 2016, hundreds of steelworkers in northern Hebei province took to the streets after being fired from their jobs.
A year ago, China said it intends to cut almost two million jobs in the steel and coal sectors as part of a bid to cut overcapacity and re-start the slowing economy.
Yin at the time said 1.3 million workers will be fired in the coal industry, along with 500,000 workers in the steel industry. Most of these workers came from state-owned enterprises, which are notorious for their inefficiency and inferior products.
The move came after a fall in coal consumption to 3.7% in 2015 compared to a reduction of 2.9% in 2014.
Four militants were killed during a police raid in in the town of Kerdasa, on the outskirts of Cairo, state news agency MENA reported on Thursday.
In statements to MENA, a Giza security directorate source said that police forces killed the wanted terrorists while attempting to arrest them, adding that police opened fire after the militants initiated a shootout.
The source added that ammunition and several shell casings were found with the four men.
It is unclear what charges the men were wanted for by the prosecution, or with which group they were affiliated.
Kerdasa has been known to be a stronghold for supporters of the now-banned Muslim Brotherhood and ousted president Mohamed Morsi.
Following the dispersal of pro-Morsi sit in camps in August 2013, 11 police officers were killed during an attack on the Kerdasa police station.
Attacks against security forces have become common in recent years but are mostly concentrated in North Sinai, where Egypt's army and police are battling an entrenched Islamist insurgency.
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Freedom of speech is a privilege. We need to treat it that way.
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The committee supervising the Egyptian press syndicates electoral process has decided on Friday to postpone the syndicates general assembly to 17 March due to the lack of a quorum.
The general assembly was set to witness the election of a new syndicate head and six board members.
Seven journalists, including syndicate head Yehia Kalash, are competing for the top post, while around 70 others are seeking posts in the syndicates council.
The syndicate has around 10,000 members with full voting rights, half of whom must be present for the general assembly to take place
Only 1,300 journalists of the required 4,300 were present on Friday.
At least 25 percent of members must be present on 17 March for the assembly to convene.
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Related German town that cancelled Turkish event receives bomb threat
Turkey told NATO partner Germany on Friday it must "learn how to behave" if it wanted to maintain relations after two German towns stopped Turkish ministers speaking at meetings of supporters of President Tayyip Erdogan.
The comments by Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu reflected a broader souring of ties between the two countries, tested most recently by Turkey's arrest on Monday of Deniz Yucel, a correspondent for the prominent Die Welt newspaper.
Germany said on Thursday the arrest, the first of a German correspondent under the crackdown that followed a failed July coup, had caused grave damage to ties.
Cavusoglu, talking to reporters in Ankara, said that "if necessary we will give a response in every way", but did not elaborate.
"The obstruction of meetings in Germany is a sign of how much Germany and the West are displaying double standards," Cavusoglu said.
The town of Gaggenau withdrew permission on Thursday for a meeting where Turkish minister Bekir Bozdag had been due to speak. The address would have been part of efforts to garner support among Germany's 1.5 million Turkish citizens for an April referendum on expanding Erdogan's presidential powers.
City authorities cited a lack of space in the car park designated for the meeting.
Bozdag cancelled a meeting with his German counterpart and flew back to Turkey. In Ankara, the Turkish foreign ministry summoned the German ambassador for an explanation, ministry sources said.
The city of Cologne also blocked an event where Turkish Economy Minister Nihat Zeybecki was to speak on Sunday, amid security concerns.
"German officials say that when Turkish ministers come to Germany they must speak with German ministers. With such pressure we will not speak with you," Cavusoglu said. "If you want to maintain relations with us, you have to learn how to behave. That is our message to Germany."
Ankara's relations with Berlin have soured especially since the attempted coup in July where Turkey said west European countries had failed to condemned the military putschists quickly and emphatically enough.
Erdogan's crackdown after the coup, mass arrests and dismissals, have also draw sharp ciriticism in the European Union.
But Germany is wary of rising tensions, seeking continued Turkish commitment to procedures preventing large movements of refugees from Turkey to Europe.
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The chancellor's six hour visit will also include discussions on combating terrorism, the Libyan crisis and boosting German aid to the Tunisian economy
German Chancellor Angela Merkel is set to fly Friday from Cairo to Tunisia for a six hour official visit where she will meet Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi and other top officials, including Prime Minister Youssef Chahed.
Sources in Tunisia told Ahram Online that the meetings will mainly focus on four issues: illegal migration, combating terrorism, the Libyan crisis and boosting German aid to the Tunisian economy.
The chancellor is scheduled to give an "extraordinary speech" addressed to the Tunisian people, a spokesperson for the country's parliament, Hasan Fathaley, told Ahram Online.
There will be talks with parliament speaker Mohamed Al-Nasser during her visit to Parliament headquarters, Fathaley said.
Fathaley added that the Tunisian parliament speaker will visit Berlin in April.
The spokesperson said the visit has created big expectations among Tunisians, with the upcoming visits between high ranking German and Tunisian officials expected to boost cooperation between the countries.
Tunisia and Germany are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations this year.
Illegal Immigration: 'No accord reached yet
Illegal immigration, a key concern for European countries facing a growing migrant crisis, will be top on the list of issues Merkel will discuss with Tunisian officials, according to Fathaley.
The German leader was in Cairo for talks with President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, in which both leaders discussed ongoing efforts to curb illegal immigration.
Egypt has recently opposed proposals to build refugee camps to house illegal migrants on the African continent.
Tunisian sources told Ahram Online that the parliament has not yet reached an accord with Germany over the proposed deportation of illegal Tunisian immigrants from the European country to Tunisia.
During a visit by Chahed to Berlin in February, reports emerged that the countries had reached an agreement on this issue.
However, Chahed told German media at the time that his government had rejected German demands to open refugee camps on Tunisian territory, and that no agreement had been reached.
Germany called for such camps after a terrorist attack on a Berlin market in December was claimed by Tunisian migrant Anis AL Emary.
Shortly after the attack, German officials hinted that Berlin would cut economic aid to Tunisia if the country did not accept the return of 1,500 illegal migrants, sparking anger from Tunisian politicians and media.
However, shortly after Chaheds visit, Germany pledged $1 billion in economic aid to the country.
Speaking to Ahram Online, Tunisian Foreign Ministry Media Director Bouraoui Limam said there was mutual understanding between Tunisia and Germany on the return of illegal immigrants. He emphasised, however, that this was not an agreement.
Tunisian foreign policy applies a framework consisting of three elements to deal with this issue. The vision is to support joint development and immigration. We already established such an agreement with France, Limam said.
Limam said the elements of the framework include "proof that any yet-to-be-deported migrant is a Tunisian national, that he/she was residing illegally, and the condition that any Tunisians meeting these criteria be deported in small groups to preserve their dignity.
We will not concede to Germany collecting a group and just putting them [all] together on a plane.Three or four persons per trip will be enough, he said.
The Tunisian official also said that as his country has made agreements similar to this one with France and Italy, Tunis was seeking a collective agreement on the issue with the EU.
Accompanying Merkel on her trip to Tunisia is a delegation of German businessmen and company directors, who will attend a conference with their Tunisian counterparts.
The two countries are expected to ink a final agreement on building a new Volkswagen automobile factory in Tunisia.
The factory is expected to be an unprecedented investment of this kind in the region, making Germany Tunisia's third largest European trade partner.
Merkel's visit is very important. Our relationship with Germany is excellent. We deal in confidence with a country that really supports us, Limam said.
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Russia said on Friday it was ready to help unify Libya and wanted to foster dialogue between rival authorities in Tripoli and factions in the east of the country.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held talks in Moscow with Fayez Seraj, the head of the U.N.-backed government in Tripoli, on Thursday.
The Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Friday that the talks had focused on how efforts to unite Libya could best be advanced. Moscow was ready to mediate and wanted to cooperate with all sides in the oil-rich country, it said.
"Moscow confirmed its readiness to work closely with all sides in Libya with the aim of seeking mutually acceptable solutions to create the grounds for the stable development of Libya as a united, sovereign and independent state," the ministry said in a statement.
Seraj's visit was seen as part of efforts to overcome a deadlock in the country between the Tripoli government and Khalifa Haftar, a military commander supported by factions in the east of the country.
A statement from Seraj's office quoted him as saying that Russia could play a positive role in Libya "thanks to its ties with various Libyan parties."
On Feb. 19, Seraj told Reuters he hoped Moscow might act as an intermediary between him and Haftar.
"The passage of time does not allow for the political manoeuvres that (some) Libyan groups are trying to play," Seraj's office said.
It said the Libyan political delegation had been accompanied by officials representing the National Oil Corporation and the defence ministry.
Lavrov and Seraj had discussed the progress of the U.N.-sponsored reconciliation dialogue, theRussian Foreign Ministry said.
"The Russian side stressed the need for an inclusive intra-Libyan dialogue aimed at setting up unified organs of power, including an army and police force capable of maintaining security and law and order and of effectively countering a terrorist threat," it said.
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The Russian Defence Ministry said on Friday that Russian military advisers had planned and overseen the Syrian army's recapture of the city of Palmyra and that Russian warplanes and special forces had played a decisive role.
The Syrian army said on Thursday it had retaken the ancient city from Islamic State group for the second time in a year, with help from allied forces.
Lieutenant-General Sergei Rudskoi, a senior Russian Defence Ministry official, told a news briefing in Moscow more than a thousand Islamic State fighters had been killed or wounded in the Palmyra operation.
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German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced a new agreement with Tunisia on tackling illegal migration during a visit Friday, following tensions over the case of the Tunisian suspect in the Berlin market attack.
Merkel, on a two-day trip to North Africa that also included a stop in Egypt, said Germany and Tunisia had agreed on faster repatriations for rejected asylum seekers and job training for Tunisians.
The German leader, who faces elections in September, is under pressure to reduce the number of asylum seekers coming to her country, which has taken in more than one million migrants since 2015.
Merkel, who also addressed Tunisia's parliament, has urged North African states to step up border controls and expedite procedures to repatriate migrants whose asylum applications are rejected.
Germany has said that Tunisian bureaucratic delays meant it could not expel Anis Amri, the suspect in the truck rampage at a Berlin Christmas market that killed 12 people, even though his asylum application had been turned down six months earlier.
Merkel said that the two countries had agreed that questions from Germany on the identities of Tunisian asylum seekers will be answered within 30 days.
"We will also help Tunisia to set up a registration system. Replacement passports are then meant to be issued within one week," she said at a joint news conference with President Beji Caid Essebsi.
This agreement "will satisfy Tunisia and will satisfy Germany", Essebsi said, adding that it concerned about 1,500 Tunisians whose residency requests have been refused by Germany.
"Measures will be taken in the Tunisian consulates in Germany to help in their identification," he added.
Merkel's talks also covered ways to respond to years of instability exploited by people smugglers in neighbouring Libya.
"We know the political situation in Libya is difficult," she said, welcoming Tunisia's efforts to help resolve the turmoil.
"No-one is more interested in political stability in Libya than its neighbours, but I'll say, because of the migration issue, it's also important for us Europeans."
The migrants issue had already been contentious in Germany where sexual assaults by large groups of mostly North African men on New Year's Eve 2015-16 against women in Cologne provoked outrage.
Merkel's interior minister floated an idea for North African countries to build holding centres for returned migrants, but it was rejected by Merkel's centre-left coalition partners and rights groups.
The visit was also a chance for Merkel to pledge support for a country often hailed as a rare success story of the Arab Spring uprisings that shook the region and toppled autocrats including longtime Tunisian dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.
Since its 2011 revolution, Tunisia has passed a new constitution and held free parliamentary and presidential elections.
But the nation faces high unemployment, social tensions and the threat from jihadists who have killed dozens of soldiers and police as well as civilians including 59 foreign tourists.
Speaking in Tunis, Merkel announced 250 million euros ($264 million) in development aid.
"The funds are for rural development, small and medium enterprises, but mainly for youths... who especially need job training and employment opportunities," she said.
She later told parliament that Tunisia is a "beacon of hope" for Europe, praising both the pro-democracy protests and the country's subsequent managing of the "rocky path" to democracy.
"The fact that you as a freely elected democratic parliament exist is a legacy of the great courage of the citizens of your country," Merkel said.
"Tunisia is going its way, and your country, as a young democracy, can bank on our full support and cooperation, politically, economically and socially."
Her trip is part of a larger diplomatic push by the German leader, who last year visited Mali, Niger and Ethiopia.
She had also planned a trip to Algeria last week, but it was called off after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika fell ill.
Germany, which this year holds the G20 presidency, has also announced investment partnerships in Africa with the long-term goals of reducing poverty and deterring people from leaving.
Merkel was joined on her trip by a business delegation that could bring much-needed investments.
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The Syrian regime and opposition agreed a "clear agenda" to seek peace for the war-scarred country at talks which ended on Friday, the negotiations' UN mediator said.
Veteran envoy Staffan de Mistura said he plans to invite both sides back to Geneva later this month for a new round of talks, which will include the issue of counter-terrorism at the request of Damascus.
"The train is ready, it is in the station, it is warming up the engine. Everything is ready, it just needs an accelerator," he said at the end of nine days of talks in the Swiss city.
"I believe that we have a clear agenda now in front of us," he told reporters.
The Geneva negotiations, the first since last April, aimed at ending a conflict that began in March 2011 with protests against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Its seventh year begins on March 15.
Since then more than 310,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands have fled the country, fuelling instability in neighbouring countries and creating Europe's biggest migrant crisis since World War II.
The warring Syrian sides have been joined in Geneva by envoys of key parties including notably Russia, a major ally of Damascus.
But as in previous talks the focus was almost exclusively on the agenda.
Under UN Security Council Resolution 2254 they should be framed in three "baskets" or areas of discussion: governance, constitution and elections.
But Damascus pushed hard for counter-terrorism to be added to the agenda, against fierce resistance from the opposition who said the Syrian regime was "stalling" the talks to avoid engaging with political transition.
The main opposition High Negotiating Committee (HNC) said the latest Geneva talks were "more positive" than previous rounds.
"We are closing this round without (a) clear result... but I can say this time was more positive," HNC delegation chief Nasr al-Hariri told reporters.
"It was first time we discussed in an acceptable depth the issues of the future of Syria and political transition," he added after the talks, the fourth mediated by de Mistura.
The antagonism has been clear in briefings after each session of talks with de Mistura, with the Syrian regime delegation chief Bashar al-Jaafari lashing out at "terrorists" in the HNC.
The HNC meanwhile lamented the lack of a genuine "partner for peace".
The talks had hardly begun last weekend when they were rocked by a suicide assault which killed dozens in Syria's third city Homs.
Al-Jaafari demanded after the attacks that terrorism be made a "priority" in Geneva.
Speaking at the end of the talks Friday, the UN mediator conceded that for the moment face-to-face talks are unlikely.
But he held up a photograph of the opening ceremony of the talks last Thursday, when both sides gathered in the same room, albeit only to hear a welcome address by de Mistura.
"This picture is much more than iconic. It is highly symbolic. This was a very special moment," he said, adding: "A psychological barrier was broken".
And he added: "I know there are still people in Syria who still believe that there is a military option or a military solution.
"That is fantasy," he said, adding that only a "political solution that addresses the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people" would ultimately prevail.
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When the 18th round of talks between Indian and Chinese special representatives on boundary question took place in New Delhi on March 23, 2015, the first since Narendra Modi government came to power, state councillor Yang Jiechi played an old card to national security adviser Ajit Doval. Parroting an old move by his predecessor Dai Binggou, who headed the dialogue till 2013 for over a decade, Yang put Tawang on the table and said if India would compromise on this Arunachal Pradesh track, Beijing would make similar compromises in the western sector, thus paving a way for a boundary settlement.
It is said Doval told his Chinese counterpart that it was better to permanently close the boundary dialogue for the future rather than for Beijing to raise the issue of Tawang.
What Doval said in blunt terms was no different from what his predecessor, NSA Shiv Shankar Menon, said in a diplomatic fashion. Menon told that India would assume that China was not interested in settling the 3,488 kilometre-Line of Actual Control (LAC) if Tawang was ever brought to the table.
This was in consonance with the 2005 political parameters and guiding principles signed by the two sides with India led by then foreign secretary Shyam Saran. The documents made it clear that settled populations like in Tawang will not be touched in the run up to a final settlement. Even Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs second NSA MK Narayanan refused to go back on Tawang and made it clear that only adjustments could be made for boundary resolution.
Dais interview to a Chinese publication where he is quoted as saying that if New Delhi takes care of Beijings concern on the eastern sector, the Chinese side would respond in kind elsewhere is nothing new, as he had reiterated in his memoir published last year. What should be of concern is that Dai is reiterating the hardline view of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA), which is currently being cleaned by President Xi Jinping of alleged corrupt generals.
Dais interview will further deepen Indian suspicions about China as the latter refuses to budge an inch over any issue raised by New Delhi. Beijing is aggressive in its demands, be it on the One-China policy, the status of the Dalai Lama, Taiwan, the South China Sea, Masood Azhars designation as terrorist or membership of the UNSC or NSG.
The fact is that the Chinese position on boundary resolution has been shifting depending on Bejings convenience and its strategic ambitions.
In 1960, then Chinese premier Zhou Enlai came to New Delhi and conveyed that Bejing would recognise the McMahon line in the eastern sector if India accepted its claims on the western sector. That the Chinese withdrew behind the McMahon demarcation in the eastern sector but stuck to its positions in west after the 1962 border war clearly indicated that Beijing wanted depth for its Tibet-Xinjiang highway (called 219) which was running through Aksai Chin and made in 1950s while Indian intelligence was in the dark.
This Chinese position was articulated by paramount leader Deng Xiaoping to G Parthasarthi, Indian ambassador to China, in 1982. There was no question of the Indian side accepting the proposal as the PLA had moved beyond the 1959 line and occupied new positions in Galwan, Pangong Tso, Track junction and Spanggur Gap in the western sector after the 1962 war.
Further the compromise would mean that the boundary would move from Kunlun to Karakoram watershed and pass through Kongka La in Ladakh. The Chinese position changed again in 1985 after the Wangdung incident that led to the Sumdorong Chu stand-off with the Indian Army baring its teeth for the first time in the eastern sector. The Chinese interlocutors during the border talks conveyed that India would have to make concessions on both sides for a boundary settlement as by now the eastern sector had become important for Beijing with Nyingchi city coming up across the Arunachal border and the hardening of the middle kingdoms control over the Tibet Autonomous Region.
Given the importance of Tawang in the four Buddhist schools in Tibet, particularly the Gelug-pa school to which the 14th Dalai Lama belongs, India cannot even think of giving it up to China. Further it will have to go through a constitutional amendment requiring the nod of two-thirds of Parliament, which will be politically disastrous for the government that moves the proposal.
Even though its foolish to assume that the Chinese rulers have a monolithic view when it comes to either foreign policy or the PLA, Dais interview shows that nothing has changed in Beijings thinking towards India.
When China has gone ahead with an economic corridor through Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), it wants India to keep away from Taiwan or Tibet citing the One China policy. It is now openly dabbling in Afghanistan to undermine Indian interests with support from Pakistan, Russia and Iran in order to push Taliban towards Kabul.
Dais interview has ominous portents for the future of the India-China relationship.
shishir.gupta@hindustantimes.com
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Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav has been one of the busiest campaigners in the 2017 assembly elections addressing four to seven rallies every day since January 28.
He has already attended nearly 170 rallies in as many assembly constituencies.
But despite my busy schedule, I do not take my eyes off my kids exams. I ask them about their preparation and wish them luck. They too wish me luck.
Since the Yadav family feud erupted, Akhilesh has been calling the election as his pariksha (test). Incidentally, his test and the annual examinations of his three children have coincided. And this time, his wife and SP MP Dimple Yadav is also the star campaigner of the party second only to Akhilesh.
The ruling Samajwadi Party (SP) is locked in what many believe is a tough contest with the BJP and the BSP for control of the countrys most populous and politically crucial state. But the chief minister is relishing the challenge.
Yes, it is their (childrens) examination time too. But my kids understand the atmosphere. Normally, it is Dimple who pays attention to kids. But despite my busy schedule, I do not take my eyes off my kids exams. Every day, after I return home from whichever part of the state I had been to, I freshen up and get a low-down on their next days examination. Before leaving next morning, I ask them about their preparation and wish them luck. They too wish me luck, says Yadav while talking to Hindustan Times in an interview aboard his poll helicopter.
This way they also feel a bit independent. They have grown up now and it doesnt make much of a difference if parents are with them all the time or not, he says.
Speaking about his own test, he says: Wherever I go, the energy of the crowd inspires me to do more for the people of UP. We are coming back to power. After the fourth phase, the BJP has realised this and their leaders are comparatively quiet now.
Perhaps, nothing gives him more pleasure than listing out what all his government has done. Metro is a reality in Lucknow and three more cities will have it. Prime Minister Narendra Modis bullet train is nowhere to be seen though three years of his tenure have lapsed, Yadav says.
In 30 months, the Agra-Lucknow Expressway will reach the eastern end of the state. We are building facilities for farmers and will open skill development centres along the Expressway. Wouldnt it be great to get fresh vegetables from Ghazipur to Lucknow within 6-7 hours? he asks.
The CM does not forget to mention free laptops, smartphones, Samajwadi pension and Kanya Vidyadhan.
Claiming that the results of Mumbai Municipal Corporation election will not reflect on the outcome of UP polls, Yadav says: Those (BMC) were local while UP election is desh ka election. This election will decide the direction of countrys politics.
Though Akhilesh is upbeat about the SP-Congress alliance, he is non-committal on the relationship with the partner. We are together. We will come to power but we have not discussed the nitty-gritty of the composition of the government. We will sit together again after the results. So far as the future of the alliance is concerned, things change according to circumstances. If we have come together, the alliance may not fall apart easily. Let us see how long and how far we go together, he says.
All praise for Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, Yadav says, He is doing good in politics and corners the BJP and the PM with full responsibility.
Asked About the feud in Yadav family, he remarks: I cannot change history. Why look back?
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Airports across the country were on Friday alerted about the possibility of rape-accused UP minister Gayatri Prasad Prajapati trying to flee the country even as chief minister Akhilesh Yadav promised all help in the case.
While the minister continues to elude police, a relative of the woman has said a UP Police officer who recorded the victims statement threatened to kill them.
Yadav and his Samajwadi Party are facing the heat over the missing minister as the state holds sixth round of voting on Saturday.
The case, the BJP said, was a pointer to the worsening law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh.
A letter of cancellation would soon be opened against Prajapati and all airports were alerted to prevent the 49-year-old from fleeing the country, official sources said.
A letter of cancellation is a technical term for alerting immigration authorities about the possibility of a suspect leaving the country.
The Sashastra Seema Bal, which guards Uttar Pradeshs border with Nepal, too, was on an alert.
An FIR was recently registered against the minister for allegedly gang-raping a woman and molesting her daughter. The FIR was filed on the directions of the Supreme Court.
CM promises help
The matter is in the Supreme Court...The government will fully cooperate and go by its order, Akhilesh Yadav said to a question at a hurriedly convened press conference in Lucknow.
When his attention was drawn to a tweet by state BJP president Keshav Prasad Maurya that said Prajapati was hiding in the chief ministers house, Yadav asked the mediapersons to check for themselves.
Prajapati is the SPs candidate from Amethi, which voted on February 27.
Murder threat
A relative of the woman allegedly raped by Prajapati and his aides alleged that a police officer who came to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Delhi to record the victims statement, threatened to kill them in a fake encounter.
In a complaint filed at the citys Hauz Khas police station, the relative alleged that a DSP-rank officer on Thursday barged into the ward where the victims 16-year-old daughter is admitted and threatened them. The officer also snatched their mobile phones.
The victims daughter, who was also allegedly sexually assaulted by the minister, is being treated in a restricted ward of AIIMS.
The lady officer pushed the girl who is undergoing treatment and pestered the mother to record the statement.
When we objected to it, the officer threatened to get us killed in a fake encounter, said the complainant, who claimed to be a cousin of the victim.
Delhi Police sources said a team went to AIIMS but found nothing to back the claims made in the complaint.
We have received a complaint from them and it is being examined. In case something comes out in the investigation, we will register an FIR, a Delhi Police officer said.
Deputy superintendent of police Amita Singh had recorded the statement of the victim and her daughter amid opposition by their family members at AIIMS.
A new film that releases this Friday has a burly hero on a mission to destroy a dark evil. But instead of the usual corrupt politician or mafia don often seen in Bollywood, the villain is an elusive entity which is also being pursued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi - black money.
With a nationalist party in power and frequent tensions with neighbour Pakistan, Bollywood is increasingly trying to cash in on a new wave of nationalism and take a cue from the governments agenda for a films storyline.
Action films are getting limited in terms of subject. There is just a villain and a hero or a police officer who fights against him. But that has become very common. We wanted a story that was relevant to India and worked for audiences emotionally, Vipul Shah, who produced Commando 2 The Black Money Trail, told Reuters.
In Deven Bhojwanis action film, the hero hunts for people who stash large sums of unaccounted money abroad, commonly known in India as black money.
Modi has repeatedly vowed to bring back billions of dollars of ill-gotten wealth his party claims are stashed by Indians in banks and tax havens abroad. The government is also targeting tax evaders inside the country it abolished high-value banknotes last November, making black money the conversation starter at almost every dinner table in the country.
Vidyut Jammwal in a still from the film.
After demonetization, the entire country has started talking about black money and how it affects the poorest of the poor. This is like a mix of fantasy and reality. What our government cannot do, Commando can, Shah said.
If the promos are anything to go by, Commando aka Vidyut Jammwal certainly leaves no stone unturned in his mission to bring back Indias untaxed wealth. Jammwal plays a disgraced army officer who goes on a mission to bring back the man who helped launder money for some of Indias richest men.
Towards the end, the Prime Minister, who looks uncannily similar to Modi, asks the hero to transfer all the black money that he retrieved to the poor farmers in our country.
The film is the latest in a string of Bollywood films which have discovered that it pays to show a bit of patriotism on screen. In October last year, as the debate surrounding Pakistani artistes in Bollywood reached its peak amid tensions along the border, the makers of espionage thriller Force 2 released a promotional song dedicated to the Indian army.
Aamir Khans 2016 film Dangal, the highest-grossing Hindi movie of all time, had the national anthem playing at crucial moments during the film. Ditto with last months war film The Ghazi Attack. In last years Dishoom, actor Varun Dhawan played a self-confessed fan of the Prime Minister.
If you can inject some sort of national pride in a subtle way, then it is always a good thing, said Shah.
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Over the past few months, Deepika Padukone has been busy on multiple fronts including the shooting for film-maker Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmavati and whirlwind global promotions of her debut Hollywood film, xXx: Return Of Xander Cage. Apart from this, she also made news thanks to rumours about her being part of various films.
Myriad conjectures
Yes, there have been a lot of speculations as far as my name is concerned in connection with certain films. And I can say that a lot of it is untrue. But fortunately or unfortunately, at this point, I wouldnt go out of my way to clarify any of those specific rumours, says Deepika.
Deepika Padukone is rumoured to be dating Ranveer Singh.
In fact, Deepika adds that sometimes, she gets to know about her association with certain films when the media asks her about it. So, suppose, I am at the airport and I am asked, We have heard that you are doing this film. And I am like, I am hearing about it for the first time myself. Where has it [the information] come from? she says.
Watch xXx: Return of Xander Cage | Trailer
Keeping mum
Ask Deepika if rumours of her association with various films gets annoying and she says, Let me put it this way: its disappointing when its untrue and especially, if it comes out in a way thats absolutely contrary to what might be the actual case. But its not my place to sit and talk about what happened and why.
Deepika Padukone starred alongside Vin Diesel in XXX: Return of Xander Cage.
And what about Iranian film-maker Majid Majidis upcoming movie, Beyond The Clouds, which led to myriad conjectures and stories? I can only say that its disappointing when things come out [in the media] and are projected in a way thats completely contrary to what really happened, says the actor, whose name has also been doing the rounds vis-a-vis Aanand L Rais next, starring Shah Rukh Khan.
Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra have worked in mainstream global projects.
Not juggling
I think theres a certain code or certain way that might be unsaid with which actors, writers or directors come together to make a film. Sometimes, things work out and sometimes, they dont. But I am not the one to speak of a film if I am not doing it for whatever reasons, says the Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013) actor.
Watch Deewani Mastani song
Deepika insists that she would never talk about films that she is approached for, got a narration for, met the director or if she didnt like it for whatever reasons. The actor adds that even if she hasnt liked a script, it doesnt mean that the film isnt good, its just that I didnt connect with it.
The same instinct
Deepikas next release, in all likelihood, will be Padmavati. She says that all of it (being approached for a film to it working out) has a process, and that should be dealt with in a certain manner. She says,I personally dont like to talk about a film until I know I am doing it. So, right now, I cant say what I am doing.
Deepika Padukone starred as Mastani in Bajirao Mastani.
Talking shop, after XXX, is she looking at more work in Hollywood? I am looking at films. Period. I cant differentiate between my works. How is one [film] different from another? At the same time, Deepika adds that right now, theres nothing. I havent liked anything yet but hopefully, I will like something soon. Having said that, I would love to do another Hollywood film. I dont consider them (Hollywood and Bollywood) as two separate careers. So, I dont think of them as having to juggle two different things, says the actor.
Deepika Padukone has worked with film-maker Sanjay Leela Bhansali multiple times.
Deepika, however, adds that her instinct to choose work in both industries is the same. I will choose my films exactly the same way I chose XXX, Padmavati, Piku (2015), Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013) or Chennai Express (2013). Its the same instinct that I always use [to choose work in Hollywood as well as Bollywood], she says.
Deepika Padukone got a lot of critical acclaim for her outing in Love Aaj Kal.
Fashion outing
The Om Shanti Om (2007) actor, who attended the New York Fashion Week recently, calls it an amazing experience. As a girl, I love fashion regardless of whether I am fashionable or not (laughs). Most people think I am fashionable while some might think I am not. But at the end of the day, I am a girl and I love my clothes with my basic understanding of fashion and style. In that capacity, it was fun to watch all the models walk the runway, see all the amazing clothes, and soak in the entire experience, she says.
Deepika Padukone starred alongside Ranbir Kapoor in Tamasha.
In January, Deepika also saw the release of her debut Hollywood venture, XXX, and is happy to see how well the film has been received. She says: The move to take on challenges to defy everything that one might think of actors from India; or defy the fact that we [Indian actors] are expected to do only that much, has been gratifying. Even in terms of the result, peoples expectations, and the way the film and I have been personally received, its great.
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It was a moment of pride for Indians when the 89th Academy Awards paid tribute to late actor Om Puri,who died at the age of 66, on January 6, this year. But back home, actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui slammed Bollywood award functions for not having a single mention of the late actor. Ever since, twitter has been abuzz with mixed reactions.
Actor Huma Qureshi,who was fortunate to have worked with Puri in her debut international project Viceroys House, feels that the senior actor deserved this adulation by all means, though she refused to comment on her Gang of Wasseypur co-star Nawazs angry tweet. I dont really know in what context he (Nawaz) said that, so it wont be fair for me to comment. But it wasnt a surprise at all when Omji was remembered at the Oscars. It was so overwhelming to watch his mention in the remembrance video, says Huma.
The actor feels proud to see the kind of love and respect Puri earned internationally for the man he was and the work he had done as an artist. He (Omji) was the best actor not just in our industry but even in the West. I was very lucky that I got to work with him. I have so many scenes with him because he plays my father. He was immensely talented and I could perform better because of him, adds the actor, who was last seen in Jolly LLB 2 alongside Akshay Kumar.
Posers at #AOLBuild interview @gurinder.chadha @manishdayal Promotions for #ViceroysHouse A post shared by Huma Qureshi (@iamhumaq) on Feb 24, 2017 at 5:10am PST
Full of praises for the veteran, Huma says that while people are lauding Indian actors making a mark in the West today, Puri was among the pioneers. We all know about his work in Indian cinema but globally too he has given some remarkable performances and done legendary roles.
I feel in each scene, he (Om Puri) contributed way more than I could ever do. He led by example and has definitely left a mark on everybodys mind that has worked with or has met him.
Talking about the filming days, the 30-year-old actor recalls several emotional scenes she shot with Puri . One of my conflicts in the film is to choose between the man I love and the father I have to take care of, as Omji plays a blind freedom fighter in the film. There were some heart breaking scenes in the film. I feel, in each scene, he contributed way more than I could ever do. He led by example and has definitely left a mark on everybodys mind that has worked with or has met him.
Ask her if she has learned a thing or two from the award-winning actor and Huma says that besides acting, his humility in unforgettable. She narrates, Last year on Eid, although he was a pure vegetarian, he invited himself over to my house for Eid celebrations and it was the best day we had. I used to call him Abba, because he plays my father in the film. Even off the sets, I used to address him like that. He said, You can call me whatever you want to but now I want to come to your house and meet your (real) Abba. My parents loved him. When he died, they couldnt believe that such a man, who was so full of life, is suddenly gone.
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Islamist militias on Friday attacked Libya's main oil-production area in the east, prompting the forces of strongman Khalifa Haftar who control it to retaliate with air strikes, military sources said.
The attack was spearheaded by the Benghazi Defence Brigades, a coalition of mostly Islamist militias and armed groups, and was backed by tribal fighters and former petroleum installation guards.
They "advanced towards the oil crescent and are 15 kilometres (nine miles) south of the town of Nofliya," said Colonel Moftah al-Megarief, who heads an oil facilities guard controlled by Haftar.
Nofliya is on the edge of the North African country's strategic oil crescent, home to the main export terminals of Al-Sidra, Brega, Ras Lanuf and Zuwaytina which Haftar's forces seized in September last year.
"We are trying to repel them and the air force has carried out several sorties," Megarief said, declining to elaborate.
However, an officer on Haftar's staff told AFP that MiG-23 warplanes and Mi-35 attack helicopters bombarded a convoy of Benghazi Defence Brigades vehicles south of Nofliya.
"Several vehicles were destroyed," said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Libya's oil-exporting region is bitterly contested between the country's internationally recognised and Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA) and a rival administration in the east backed by Haftar.
In December, the Benghazi Defence Brigades carried out a similar attack on the oil crescent, but were repelled by Haftar's forces.
And in January, powerful militias from the western city of Misrata had joined another such attack on the oil crescent.
Megarief said Friday's assault was launched from Al-Jufra air base in southern Libya.
Rocked by chaos since the fall of dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011, Libya desperately needs to relaunch its oil exports, the backbone of its economy.
The GNA has struggled to impose its authority as it faces a multitude of battle-hardened fighters who took part in the uprising that ousted Kadhafi.
On Friday it released a statement saying it was not involved in the "military escalation" and had "not instructed any group" to try to retake the oil crescent.
However, the embattled government denounced the violence and warned of unspecified action "if clashes continue there or anywhere else" in Libya.
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Irrfan Khan had a surprise waiting for him when he arrived in Gangtok, Sikkim, to shoot for a film. To his pleasant surprise, the actor was greeted by a huge number of people on reaching the city, according to a source.
On arriving in Gangtok, Irrfan was greeted by a huge number of people. The actor was surprised to see so many of them, as Gangtok is not a huge market for Hindi movies. So, once the crowd settled, the actor met the fans, some of whom have written to him on social media in the past.
They even told Irrfan that they had seen his Hollywood movies on DVDs, and most of his other works on celluloid, says the source.
Such a happy crowd in Gangtok!!!Crowd celebrating me , I'm celebrating the crowd pic.twitter.com/lSq9nuJ5He Irrfan (@irrfank) March 1, 2017
The actor also interacted with some of the fans on the sets of his film. Irrfan says, The welcome in Gangtok was fantastic. It was great to be in a place where people have such limited access to movies, and still get such a good response. Much like the place, the people of Gangtok are wonderful and beautiful.
The actor will next be seen in Hindi Medium co-starring Saba Qamar, Doob: No Bed Of Roses and Tanuja Chandras next.
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Agra Cine actor Sanjay Dutt, who is shooting for his comeback movie Bhoomi in Agra, has apologised for the incident in which his bouncers manhandled media persons. In the film, the actor is playing father to young Aditi Rao Hydari and currently shooting is on in villages on the outskirts.
Addressing a press conference in Agra on Friday, Dutt clarified that he was not present when the alleged brawl took place and had he been there, the incident would have been averted.
Actor Sanjay Dutt during a press conference of film Bhoomi in Agra on Friday. (IANS)
Had I been there, I would have resolved the matter with a jaadu ki jhappi (magic hug). Yet I tendered an apology yesterday and offer the same again, said a rather toned down Dutt.
Replying to a question about how Agra had changed since the days when he came here for shooting of Vidhata a few decades earlier, he said, Tab Agra ke log pyar se maan jaate the magar ab maafi se maante hain (earlier Agra residents were pacified with love but now seek apology).
Although Vidhata was shot in the Taj city, there was no Agra in the film. But this time it is the story of Agra for an issue which is pan India, said Dutt, adding that the portrayal on celluloid promoted both city and state and so any unpleasant incident should not take place.
To recall, on Thursday evening when the shooting was taking place near Kalakriti Convention Hall in Agra and a major road, 500 metres away from Taj Mahal was cordoned off with rope, media men tried to click the shooting and bouncers allegedly roughed them up. The media persons later reached Tajganj police station with a complaint. They alleged that they were manhandled and their cameras taken away.
Dutt, who has four decades of experience and nearly 200 films under his belt, said that the film industry was his family and he had missed it while in jail. He lauded newcomers but said that earlier film making was more from the heart and now more from the mind.
When asked about parenting, the actor turned nostalgic, recalling his father saying, I am your father and not your friend.
Actors Sanjay Dutt, Aditi Rao Hydari and director Omung Kumar during a press conference of film Bhoomi in Agra on Friday. (IANS)
Asked about similarities or differences between on-screen daughter Aditi and off-screen daughter Trishala, Dutt said, Yes, there is a difference as I thought of breaking Trishalas legs when she wanted to work in movies which I cant do to Aditi. But he added smilingly, I had a beautiful relationship with my children.
His co-star Shekhar Suman praised Dutt for his compassion and held that Indian cinema had grown as an industry. Actors now take their role seriously, he said.
Aditi Rao Hydari said that it was a memorable experience playing screen daughter to Sanjay Dutt.
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Drug pricing regulator NPPA will meet stent manufacturers next week to discuss issues like pricing and availability of the medical device.
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) also said it has so far received complaints against 24 hospitals for overcharging on stents, out of which nine have been issued show cause notices.
It added that non compliance with its instructions on stent prices may lead to prosecution.
In a notification, the NPPA said it has called for a meeting with stent makers on March 7 to discuss issues related to availability of stents and monitoring of ceiling prices and other issues.
The regulator has been monitoring the situation ever since it announced price cap on stents on February 14. It has asked manufacturers, importers, distributors and hospitals to ensure availability at the revised prices.
Total 24 complaints of overcharging on stents, nine hospitals issued show cause notices, copy of bills awaited in other cases, the NPPA said in a tweet.
It said in overcharging cases, the name of the concerned stent companies can be ascertained only after receiving replies from hospitals.
The 24 hospitals under scrutiny are also accountable on not mentioning the name of the company, brand and specifications of stents billed, the regulator added.
So far in the complaints received, it has been observed from the bill copies that hospitals are not complying with instructions specified in its price cap order, it said.
This a serious non-compliance of government orders, the NPPA said, adding non-compliance of these instructions shall now be treated as deliberated distortion of evidence along with charges of overpricing. Such cases may also be taken up prosecution under EC Act.
The NPPA also warned the hospitals that non compliance with its instructions on stent prices may lead to prosecution.
The hospitals against which complaints have been received include Max Hospital in Saket, New Delhi, Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, Metro Hospital in Faridabad, PGI Hospital Chandigarh and Bharat Heart Institute in Dehradun, among others.
Max Healthcare and Lilavati have denied overcharging patients for stents and insisted they were complying with NPPA guidelines.
The regulator said hospitals, nursing homes and clinics utilising stents shall specifically and separately mention the cost of the stent along with its brand, name of the manufacturer, importer, batch number and other details in their billing.
In a major relief to lakhs of cardiac patients, the NPPA had slashed prices of life-saving coronary stents by up to 85% by capping them at Rs 7,260 for bare metal ones and Rs 29,600 for drug eluting variety.
The government has instructed banks to link all savings accounts with mobile and Aadhaar numbers by March 31, 2017, and enable mobile banking for such customers.
All banks have been advised to undertake this in campaign mode, an official statement said on Friday.
Mobile number seeding and enabling the same for m-banking are a pre-requisite for making mobile payments while Aadhaar number seeding is a pre-requisite for using Aadhaar Enabled Payments System (AEPS), it added.
The ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY), according to a recent Cabinet Secretariat notification, has been given the responsibility of promotion of digital transactions, including digital payments.
As per an estimate, currently only 65% saving accounts are seeded with mobile numbers and only 50% with Aadhaar.
Out of the 65% accounts already seeded with mobile numbers, only 20% are enabled for mobile banking.
To make this process convenient to customers, MeitY has advised the banks to explore Over the Air customer consent instead of requiring customers to visit the bank branch or ATM as is required currently, the statement said.
The campaign is to be launched with immediate effect.
The progress of seeding and mobile bank enabling will be monitored by MeitY along with the department of financial services.
Banks will have to give adequate publicity in national, regional and local media, besides conducting camps for on-the-spot seeding of bank accounts.
Also, they have been advised to utilise their extensive branch network as well as banking mitras or correspondents to carry out an effective outreach programme, especially in rural areas.
The process of enabling bank accounts for mobile and Aadhaar based banking is completely voluntary.
However, given the benefits of these banking channels, a large number of customers are expected to opt for it, it said.
Accordingly, banks have been advised to be prepared with adequate infrastructure to facilitate this process effectively with no inconvenience to customers.
The debate in the US over H-1B visas has become a political and emotive issue as there is a yawning gap between the facts and perception, IT industry body NASSCOM has said, contending that Indian IT firms contribute immensely to the US economy and jobs creation.
This narrative has been going on for a while now that Indian IT workers come to the US and that they take away jobs, that in general they simply displace American workers and that these are low-paid, not even necessarily high-skilled people who are actually taking away jobs from better paid and skilled American workers, NASSCOM president R Chandrashekhar told PTI.
Chandrashekhar was here this week leading a delegation of IT industry body to engage with members of the new US administration on issues like clampdown on work visas and flow of skilled manpower between the two nations.
Thats really the kind of narrative which has got built up, sort of anecdotal examples are being cited, which also are not necessarily accurate. Because it has been presented with a mix of emotive anecdotal stories, I think a counter narrative and facts have really not been recognised. If you look at the facts, then the facts actually tell you a very, very different story, he said.
He said, The data, not just our data, but the US governments own data also tells a very, very different story.
Chandrashekhar met a number of influential American lawmakers, opinion builders, members of think-tank community and the officials from the new Trump Administration and interacted with them on the H-1B visa issues.
The visit of the NASSCOM delegation came in the wake of the ongoing debate in the US and reported moves by the Trump Administration to bring out an executive order to curtail the use of H-1B visas, widely used by Indian IT majors.
The purpose is to put across our point of view so that a more balanced approach is enabled, he noted.
Chandrashekhar said the Indian IT industry actually contributes immensely to the US economy in terms of jobs that are created in America, both directly and indirectly.
Close to half a million jobs have been supported in the US as of 2015. The number of jobs have also been growing at 10 per cent per year as against a two per cent growth in the rest of the job market, he said.
The biggest contribution to jobs, of course, is what the industry provides in terms of services to US corporates, 75 per cent of the Fortune 500 companies, which enable them to be more productive, more efficient, and more globally competitive, and thereby helps them to be the job creation engine in the US, the NASSCOM president said.
Indias leading engineering firm Larsen and Toubro (L&T) on Friday said it has won projects worth Rs 2,170 crore including one in Oman.
L&T, the $16 billion conglomerate that operates in over 30 countries, has secured orders worth Rs 1,169 crore from Oman Electricity Transmission Company SAOC for turnkey construction of the 400/132 kV Qabel Grid Station and associated works, the company said informed bourses.
The company has secured two more orders from reputed customers for design, supply, construction and commissioning of five 132 kV substations in UAE.
On the domestic front, the business has won a contract from West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd for strengthening the sub-transmission & distribution network in the urban area of Nadia district, West Bengal under the Integrated Power Development scheme.
In the water and effluent treatment business, L&T has won an order worth Rs 360 crore from Rajasthan Urban Drinking Water Sewerage and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (RUDSICO), Government of Rajasthan, under AMRUT for the execution of a sewerage project with treatment facilities spread across three towns namely Bharatpur, Gangapur and Hindaun.
The scope of the project includes constructing 354 km of sewerage network, providing more than 40,000 house connections and building eight sewage treatment plants of total capacity 24.75 million litre per day (MLD) using Sequential Batch Reactor (SBR) Technology.
The business has secured an order worth Rs 320 crore from a renowned client to construct commercial and residential towers in Mumbai.
L&T has secured additional orders worth Rs 321 crore from the existing clients across various business segments.
Weeks after Uber and Ola drivers protested against falling incomes and long working hours, Uber Indias president Amit Jain said in a blog that the company is committed to its drivers, and will continues to invest in its people, product and programme.
While Jain admitted that driver earnings vary widely, depending on individual driver behaviour where, when and how much they drive. He also said that it is difficult to estimate average income, but he gave a range. Currently, 80% of drivers across India who are online for more than six hours a day make between Rs 1,500 and Rs 2,500 net, after Ubers service fee, Jain wrote.
Uber charges 20% commission on drivers fare.
Jain even apologised for the disruption in commute that customers faced. It has been a difficult time, and we are grateful for the strong support weve received from riders and drivers across the country, and to the courts and law enforcement in condemning the use of violence and intimidation, he said.
Drivers in Delhi and Karnataka went on a strike as they claimed that their income had fallen due to the changing incentive structure. Jain said that they movement was taken ahead by a small set of people, and not the majority of drivers.
Uber has over 4,00,000 driver partners. Small numbers of individuals, who do not represent the majority of the driver community, have been preventing drivers who want to work from doing so, Jain said, adding that the company is working to resolve their concerns, and reduce confusion, to avoid protests in the future.
For the American cab-hailing company, India is an important country, where it plans to pump in billions of dollars, especially after exiting China, where it has consolidated its business with Didi Chuxing, its Chinese competitor.
So far, Uber has invested over a billion dollars into India, and is expected to invest another billion, once the dust over regulatory issues and driver protests settle down.
Caught in a market share battle, Uber and Ola doled out heavy incentives, benefitting drivers and consumers. Driver sign-ups has gone up by 60% year over year. At its peak drivers earned up to Rs 1 lakh a month. That, many drivers claim has fallen down to Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000.
According to Jains claims a driver makes anything between Rs 45,000 to Rs 75,000 a month. While some drivers do earn less than three years ago, we believe that driver earnings in India are attractive for the majority even after reductions in incentives and drivers costs are taken into account, Jain said.
However, the company did signal that it would steer itself away from incentives in major cities, as the programme is to seed ground in new cities Uber launches its service. Without doing this, its hard to ensure drivers are compensated for their time when few riders are aware of the service. As more riders use Uber, drivers are busier and can earn more, said Jain.
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The opposition BJP disrupted the Bihar assemblys proceedings for the third consecutive day on Friday, demanding dismissal of Congress minister Abdul Jalil Mastan over a video clip, which showed him asking his supporters to beat Prime Minister Narendra Modis photograph with shoes.
As soon as the house assembled, slogan-shouting Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators created a ruckus and made it clear that assembly would not be allowed to function unless chief minister Nitish Kumar sacked Mastan, who is the excise and prohibition minister.
Leader of opposition Prem Kumar said the BJP would not compromise on the issue and continue its protest to expose Mastan and Nitish Kumars reluctance in sacking him.
Mastan is the only minister from the backward and under-developed Seemanchal belt, which comprises Purnia, Kishanganj, Araria and Katihar districts with sizeable Muslim population.
READ:MLA levels sedition charge against Bihar Cong minister
However, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), a constituent of the ruling Grand Alliance (GA) in Bihar, on Friday demanded speaker Vijay Kumar Choudhary take action against BJP legislator Lal Babu Gupta for allegedly abusing RJD MLA Faraz Fatmi and his father and former union minister Mohammad Ali Ashraf Fatmi in the assembly on Thursday.
Action should be taken against Lal Babu who abused and used unparliamentary language against Ashraf Fatmi, RJD legislator Bhai Virender said.
According to the RJD, Mastan would not be sacked from Nitish Kumars council of ministers.
First BJP take action against union minister Griraj Singh and others for publicly abusing RJD chief Lalu Prasad repeatedly, they said.
Earlier, Bihar Congress president Ashok Choudhary, who is also the education minister, said the BJPs demand for the sacking of Mastan was baseless.
After much hue and cry over his controversial statement, Mastan on Wednesday apologised to put an end to the row.
The Congress, Janata Dal(United) and the RJD are all partners in the GA.
Mastans video, aired on regional news channels, also condemned the Centres November 8 demonetisation move. The video also went viral on the social media.
In the video, Mastan was seen addressing a rally in Purnea districts Amour constituency, and saying that it was Modi who had promised to face punishment if he failed to end peoples woes within 50 days. At the rally, organised on February 22, Mastan had allegedly suggested the crowd to beat Modis photograph with shoes and called the Prime Minister a Naxalite, terrorist and a dacoit.
A young Indian-American man stepped out for a drink and one racially motivated incident later, he was dead. A woman from the community wondered aloud to the New York Times: Why do they want to hurt the Indians? We want to make America beautiful. We dont want to spoil it.
This may sound eerily familiar to those tracking the murder of 32-year-old Srinivas Kuchibhotla in Olathe, Kansas, on February 22, but the incident referred to occurred almost 30 years earlier. In 1987, Navroze Mody, just 30, was mugged in Hoboken, New Jersey, by a gang of youth. His crime lay in his identity, at a time when the Dotbusters terrorised immigrants from India in parts of the state that were more like suburbs of New York City. The brutal assault left Mody in a coma, and four days later, he succumbed to the injuries. His parents were stunned just as Kuchibhotlas in Hyderabad.
Days after the latest tragedy, US President Donald Trump gave his first speech to the United States Congress. His administration has been listening to the anguish expressed by New Delhi. That may be partly why he began the hour-long oration with a reference to last weeks shooting in Kansas.
Trump himself has lauded Indian-Americans for supporting him, and the community is considered a model minority, but all that obviously didnt factor into disarming Kuchibhotlas killer. That hate criminal, an alcoholic with a gun, shattered a young family and its aspirations while shell shocking a community. Kuchibhotla was a victim of what I once described as trickle-down xenophobia.
Trumps speech may have begun with condemnation of hate and evil in all of its very ugly forms but it aggravated concerns over immigration, even among those seeking a legal pathway to America. The immigrant, regardless of documentation, is either a jobs thief or wage depressor, in this worldview. It is in the context of that thinking that the H1B and L1 visas, used by the majority of Indians, are in danger of being clipped.
To be fair, Trump did approvingly cite Canadas merit-based immigration system, one that has seen Indians among the top three source countries for immigration over the past decade. But at one-tenth of the US population, the numbers Canada deals with are paltry compared to Americas annual intake. Critics have disparaged the employer-based visa system as creating a culture of cybercoolies in the US. Permanent residency in America is a process so prolonged that it feeds into that sense of captivity to the capriciousness of the hiring firm. And even that green card, as Trumps recent executive order proved, is a glorified visa minus the security that citizenship offers. A fix is merited and if delivered, will be liberating for future immigrants.
The problem is that while Trump has promised a big, beautiful door in the wall he has pledged to build on Americas southern border, he could well erect many other barriers elsewhere in the system, closing windows of opportunity for immigrants from nations like India.
The Dotbusters gang of the 1980s got its name from the bindi worn by many Indian women of the area. Over the next three decades, New Jerseys Indian-American community shook aside the attempts to terrorise them and now form a thriving presence in the region. In Jersey City, for instance, where Mody lived, you can actually find shopkeepers who will prepare a fresh paan, and stores selling 110-volt versions of idli grinders. But that change occurred during a period when immigration hadnt turned into a word of invective. This may be baking a loaf out of breadcrumbs, but the current situation isnt likely to improve imminently.
Even so, the American magnet will lose some attraction, but will not repel incomers just as Kuchibhotlas wife has said she wants to return to the US as soon as possible. But new immigrants, if drawn in by a more efficient system, may find themselves warier in a land that has become stranger. Security of status has two flavours not being prey to workplace whims or to bigotry. Fixing one flaw may not be enough.
Anirudh Bhattacharyya is a Toronto-based commentator on American affairs
The views expressed are personal
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The Akhil Bharatiya Vidhyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the students wing of the RSS, reacted strongly after a Doon University student, associated with the CPI(M)-affiliated Students Federation of India (SFI), allegedly dubbed the army in Kashmir as rapist.
Priyanka Negi, the SFI leader and president of the students council of Doon University, allegedly made the statement on the campus on March 1 after her attempt to invite Left leaders to a seminar on Kashmir was opposed by a majority of the council members.
She immediately apologised, but a video of her alleged statement against the army went viral, prompting the ABVP to register protests and file a police complaint against her, raising fears of another campus showdown.
The controversy comes close on the heels of Gurmehar Kaur, a Delhi University student, speaking up against the ABVP over violence in Ramjas College. Gurmehar, the daughter of an army captain killed in Kashmir in 1999, has been trolled and threatened with rape since she stood up to ABVP and condemned campus violence.
The Ramjas College violence was a sequel to turmoil in New Delhis Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) earlier in the University of Hyderabad over what the ABVP called anti-national activities on campuses. Violence in Ramjas erupted following cancellation of a literary festival after the ABVP objected to inviting JNU scholar Umar Khalid, who is an accused in the JNU sedition case of February 9 last year.
Paras Goyal, a former DAV (PG) College president associated with the ABVP, reported the alleged remark on the army to Dehradun senior superintendent of police (SSP) Sweety Agarwal.
How can she accuse our Indian Army of being rapist? When she cannot value the sacrifice and efforts of the army that is safeguarding the entire nation, she has no right to be a citizen of this country, Goyal said.
We will thoroughly investigate the case, the SSP said.
She (Priyanka Negi) used inappropriate words for the Indian Army, vice chancellor VK Jain told HT on Friday, adding that she had apologised.
HT could not independently verify the contents of the video. Attempts to contact the SFI leader failed as her phone remained switched off. Nitesh Khantwal, SFIs Uttarakhand joint secretary, backed Negis statement. He said his organisation will soon chalk out a strategy to counter the ABVP.
We are busy in Delhi for a national meet. But, we will back Priyanka for what she had said, Khantwal said.
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German authorities in the southwestern town of Gaggenau evacuated the city hall on Friday after receiving a bomb threat, its mayor told German television, one day after he cancelled an event where Turkey's justice minister was to speak.
Asked by n-tv broadcaster if the bomb threat was linked to the cancellation, mayor Michael Pfeiffer said: "We presume this at the moment, but we don't know for sure. We presume there is a direct link."
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Seventeen prisoners in Delhis Tihar jail were injured on Thursday night when a clash broke out between two groups. Senior jail officers, however, denied reports of the clash. They claimed that the prisoners had asked to be let out of their cells and on being denied permission, they inflicted injuries on themselves.
Jail sources said that around 1am they received a call from Tihars jail number 3 about a fight among prisoners. Six prisoners, who sustained minor injuries, were rushed to the jail hospital while 11 others who had cuts on their ears and hands were rushed to Safdarjung Hospital. Police suspect the prisoners used surgical blades in the clash.
The 11 prisoners who had reportedly received injuries were discharged on Friday morning. DCP (west) Vijay Kumar said, We have just received a complaint from jail authorities. We will look into it and register a case.
Explaining the sequence of events, director general prisons Sudhir Yadav said, There was no clash. At around 11pm, a prisoner in Kasturi Ward called jail officers claiming he was unwell. When our officer went to open the gate and get him out, others also joined in and demanded that they be let off. When our officer refused they banged their heads and self inflicted injuries. It is not a clash and no blades were used.
Yadav said that most prisoners in Kasturi Ward are those who cause trouble in jail. Prisoners in the ward are punished under the jail rules and are not allowed to interact with others. All the 17 prisoners were serving their time for crimes such as murder, robbery. Jail officers said they have also ordered an internal inquiry to probe if there were any administration lapses.
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Khan Market traders approached the New Delhi Municipal Council on Friday and said that individual structural safety certificate, as directed by the civic agency after the two roof collapses in Connaught Place on February 2 and 11, will not be possible.
In 1950, when the shop spaces were constructed, each individual space was 998 sq. ft, both upstairs and downstairs. When people came from Pakistan, the Land and Development Office (L&DO) divided these shop units. With a pardi (temporary) wall, smaller units were formed. So there is a lone load bearing wall in every shop. When it was constructed there were two walls. After allotment, every shop has a single wall, Sanjeev Mehra, president of the Khan Market Traders Association, told HT.
Read: Is Delhis posh shopping hub Khan Market a disaster waiting to happen?
According to him, the traders consulted a structural engineer, who said that for a structure like Khan Market, individual safety certificates were not possible.
We met the NDMC chairman and submitted a representation telling him that individual safety certificates wont be possible. He said we will get it reassessed on how to get it done in a consolidated manner, Mehra said.
There are 156 shops and 74 residential spaces in Khan Market, which was set up as a neighbourhood market in 1950 and is now one of the most expensive commercial spaces in the world. Of the 74 residential spaces on the first and second floors, 44 are engaged in commercial activities housing 30 restaurants, while another 10 eateries are located on the ground floor.
On February 14, NDMC had also asked Connaught Place traders to submit similar documents. The CP traders, however, have submitted a memorandum asking for more time.
Read: Delhi roof collapse: CP eateries at risk, survey to identify dangerous buildings
The notices to the shops of these iconic Central Delhi markets have been issued under Section 258 (1) of the NDMC Act 1994. All the shopowners and residents were to provide these safety certificates by March 6. It was a self declaration by the owners, attested by a structural engineer that a particular shop or flat space doesnt deviate from the sanctioned building plan and items on rooftop are there with necessary permission.
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Around 2,000 members of Student Federation of India (SFI) gathered at Mandi House in Delhi and marched towards Jantar Mantar against Rashtriya Swayamsewal Sangh (RSS) and its student wing Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) on Friday.
The communist student group condemned the ABVP for allegedly attacking free speech in universities and triggering violence and RSS for influencing the National Education Policy.
As SFI students from Delhi, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Tripura, Rajasthan, Kerala, Telengana, and Haryana staged a sit in Jantar Mantar, traffic on several roads around the venue slowed down.
The SFI protest comes a day after ABVP carried out a march in Delhi Universitys North Campus for saving DU from anti-nationals. Another Left organisation All India Students Association has planned a protest at Mandi House on Saturday.
This is part of a series of protests organised after a seminar in Ramjas College was cancelled following ABVPs objection to inviting controversial JNU student Umar Khalid. AISAs protest on the following day led to clashes between student groups. Two ABVP members were later arrested by Delhi Police.
SFI students protesting at Jantar Mantar on Friday were joined by CPI general secretary Sitaram Yechury at Jantar Mantar.
Prasant Mukherjee, president of Delhi state SFI unit said, As per new education policy draft, various colleges are being forced to become autonomous because of the agenda of privatisation and commercialisation. In Delhi, six colleges are on the verge of becoming autonomous.To hide this in the draft policy and its negative points, the RSS and AVBP are manufacturing incidents.
He said the group will bring together other like-minded sections to raise the pitch against saffronisation of education. We will forge the unity of all progressive and democratic sections and wherever required we will challenge the government and will fight the on slaughter of education system and social injustice, he added further.
The SFI has planned related events and activities in other university. One such even will take place in Delhi University on Saturday.
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Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal assured a five-member delegation of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) that he will speak to Delhi Police about their demands. The ABVP team had met the L-G in Delhi on Friday demanding action by the police over the alleged anti-national slogans raised in Ramjas College on February 21 and the violence which took place on February 22.
Violence had erupted after a literary festival at Delhi Universitys Ramjas College was cancelled. The event had to be called off after ABVP objected to inviting JNU scholar Umar Khalid, who is an accused in the JNU sedition case of February 9 last year. We were assured that he will speak to Delhi Police about the matter, said Saket Bahuguna, ABVP national media convener.
They complained to the L-G that no separate FIR has been filed in the Ramjas incident by the police. The RSS-affiliated student body also asked L-G for a probe into the alleged rape threats to Gurmehar Kaur, a student of Lady Shri Ram College and martyrs daughter who had started a campaign against ABVP. She had alleged that she had receiving rape threats for her campaign.
They also raised the issue of February 9 Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) sedition case, in which Delhi Police is yet to file a chargesheet. We want them (police) to identify other sloganeers as well as the organisers of the event where anti-national slogans were raised, said Bahuguna.
Other members in the team were ABVP Delhi unit secretary Bharat Katana, national secretary (Delhi) Monika Chaudhary, state president Avneesh Mittal and Delhi University Student Union president Amit Tanwar. The group also submitted a memorandum to the L-G about the killing of ABVP activists in Kerala.
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A 22-year-old Chinese student from a Delhi University college was allegedly molested by a plant seller at her residence in Delhi on Monday.
Initially in the dark about the identity of the suspect, police nabbed 42-year-old Mahavir after a two-day long hunt. For three consecutive days before the crime, the accused had been visiting the complainant trying to sell flower pots and plants to her.
She told the police, that on Monday, when she asked him to leave, Mahavir allegedly touched her inappropriately. The woman raised an alarm after which the accused allegedly fled. The woman then informed her roommate who encouraged her to report the matter to the police.
A case was registered at GK-1 police station and several teams formed to identify the accused. No one in the locality seemed to know of the accused as he would only deliver flowers at the doorstep, said a senior police officer.
Door-to-door visits by the police teams finally yielded results on Thursday when one of his customers was able to reveal his identity. Mahavir was finally nabbed from South Delhis Badarpur area, not far from where he lives. Police said he had stopped visiting the area since the day of the crime.
Delhis solar policy will come into effect from April, eight months after it received the Aam Aadmi Party governments approval.
The move will not only help households avail the 30% subsidy offered by the ministry of new and renewable energy (MNRE) but also prevent dubious vendors from hawking substandard solar panels in the capital.
Starting April, residents planning to install solar energy generation systems on their rooftops will receive a list of 75 government-certified vendors to choose from. Next week, we will start accepting applications from interested people. Advertisements will also be issued in this regard. We aim to have solar panels capable of generating 75 MW of power installed at private residences and buildings run by trusts, said Varsha Joshi, secretary (power).
Though the MNRE scheme offering 30% subsidy to those installing solar systems on their rooftops was launched in November 2015, city residents were unable to take advantage due to the Delhi governments delay in tendering the list of eligible vendors.
Under the scheme, people who wish to install solar panels of 1-5 kW will have to invest only between Rs 70,000 and Rs 2 lakh. The price would further plummet once they start generating power, with consumers getting an additional generation-based incentive of Rs 2 per kW of solar power for a period of three years.
Once the policy comes into effect, consumers will be able to fix rates through a competitive process and choose vendors as per the capacity of the solar plant they wish to install. At present, manufacturing and installation of small-sized solar plants are mostly carried out by Chinese companies that offer no service warranty or performance guarantee. While they are cheap, most stop working just months after installation.
The new process will build confidence in the people because prices will be kept under check, and quality as well as post-installation services will be guaranteed, an official said.
A study by the power department has revealed that the rooftops of most households in the capital have 10 to 50 square metres of shadow-free area.
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A relative of the woman who was allegedly raped by Uttar Pradesh minister Gayatri Prajapati and his aides on Thursday filed a complaint with the Delhi Police and alleged that a UP Police officer who had come to AIIMS to record the victims statement threatened to kill them in a fake encounter.
In a complaint filed at the Hauz Khas police station, the relative has alleged that a DSP-rank woman officer of the UP Police on Thursday barged into a ward at AIIMS, where the victims 16-year-old daughter is admitted, threatened them and snatched their mobile phones.
Read: Threatened by own security men, UP minister Prajapati goes missing
The victims daughter, who was also allegedly sexually assaulted by the minister, is undergoing treatment in a restricted ward of AIIMS. The officer pushed the girl who is undergoing treatment and pestered the mother to record the statement. When we objected to it, the officer threatened to get us killed in a fake encounter, alleged the complainant, who claimed to be a cousin of the victim.
Chinmoy Biswal, additional DCP (south), confirmed that the complaint was filed by the womans relative. The allegations levelled in the complaint have prima facie found not substantiated as of now, said Biswal. He said that prior to the written complaint, a call regarding alleged threat by UP police official in a ward at AIIMS was also received by the police control room. No evidence of any threat or intimidation could be found as alleged in the call, added Biswal.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Amita Singh had on Thursday recorded the statement of the victim and her daughter amid opposition by their family members at AIIMS. The statement was videographed as per the rules under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, said police sources.
The UP Police has filed an FIR against Prajapati and his accomplices on an order from the Supreme Court. The statement of the victim was recorded before a chief metropolitan magistrate in Lucknow last week.
Read: File case against UP minister Prajapati on rape charges, SC orders police
However, since the mother had certain reservations, she had called over Mahmood Pracha, advocate, who is representing the minor in Supreme Court. Pracha had arrived at AIIMS and the remaining statement was carried out in his presence.
Last month, the minor victim had gone missing on February 11 before her medical examination at AIIMS. She was staying here with her mother, in a hotel in Nabi Karim in central Delhi. After she went missing, her mother lodged a complaint, following which an FIR under section 363 (Punishment for kidnapping) of IPC was lodged at Nabi Karim police station, police said. The victim returned after a couple of days and she said that she was fine and nothing untoward had happened to her, they added.
The JNU administration in Delhi on Thursday ordered removal of a controversial poster which sprang up on its campus demanding freedom for Kashmir and Palestine.
The poster with Freedom for Kashmir! Free Palestine! Right to Self Determination Long Live! DSU written on it was pasted on the wall by the Left-leaning Democratic Students Union (DSU).
DSUs former members Umar Khalid, Anirban Bhattacharya and others had organized the controversial event last year against the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru at the JNU during which anti-national slogans were allegedly raised.
Khalid, Bhattacharya and former student union president Kanhaiya Kumar are out on bail in a sedition case over the event.
Some students noticed the poster on the wall of the new block of the School of Social Sciences (SSS) and informed the administration.
The JNU authorities asked the university security to remove the poster in the evening.
The university has already lost precious time and energy in such unnecessary controversies. Unfortunately a small group of people are still trying to create another ruckus and vitiate the academic environment.
We dont know who put up the poster as this has been the pattern in JNU. However, the administration has asked the staff to bring it down, a senior university official said.
The administration was unable to function for over 17 days due to the blockade of the administrative building by students in protest against changes in the admission policy and it was only early this week that the staff got access to the building and resumed work
In Delhis Jantar Mantar, a 600 strong Police force kept an eye on protesters on Thursday, as members of the Jat community undertook a peaceful agitation to demand reservation.
There were no untoward incidents or violence reported. Every time the situation threatened to spiral out of control, a bunch of Jat personnel from the police force stepped in to diffuse the tension.
By the time the protest came to an end around 5pm, the agitators were cheering some of the Jat policemen and urging them to join them on stage. While most policemen politely refused, an inspector was compelled to address the huge gathering. The officer, in turn, kept his address short and sweet, thanking the agitators for keeping the protest peaceful.
Sources said Thursdays protest saw several thousand agitators participating in it, but the situation was always under control, at least early on.
The Jat leaders had appealed to the gatherers to maintain discipline and not misbehave with the police and the journalists present.
But as the crowd swelled, a leader addressing them accused the police of stopping community members from entering the Delhi at the citys borders. It led to an aggressive response from the protesters, immediately sending the police on alert.
We suggested that one of our colleagues from the Jat community talk to the leaders and assure them that no one was stopped. When they got to know he belonged to their community, they immediately believed him, a senior police officer told HT.
So, the next time another Jat leader threatened peace by making inflammatory statements against the police, another Jat policeman was sent to pacify them. When some of the protesters threatened to break the barricades while attempting to march to Parliament, again it was some Jat policemen who came forward to calm them down.
Aware of how quickly things could go out of hand, the Delhi Police had kept around 3,500 additional personnel on standby. Early in the day, three special commissioners of Delhi Police had visited the protest site and spoken to the leaders and overseen the arrangements.
While the agitation did not affect traffic movement in other parts of the city, Sansad Marg was closed for vehicles from 10am till late in the evening. Roads around Jantar Mantar witnessed slow vehicular movement throughout the day, especially during the evening when the agitators dispersed.
The protesters had begun trickling in to Jantar Mantar as early as 8am. While most took Metro trains, buses and MUVs to reach the site, some arrived in expensive cars like Audis and Fortuners.
Comprising mostly of elderly men, the protesters had brought along their hookahs, tobacco and some cow dung cakes for keeping the hookah burning.
The organizers had arranged for food, water and tea for agitators, but the public facilities at Jantar Mantar appeared insufficient to cater to the high turnout.
Thursdays protest passing off peacefully might have come as a major relief to the Delhi Police, but they may already be worried about the next agitation after Holi in which Jat leaders have threatened to enter Delhi with their tractors, trolleys and cattle if their demands are not met.
The Delhi government has raised questions over the ownership of the land where Aurobindo Ashram, Mirambika School and Mothers International schools are built. They have also found that the society has encroached upon the government land.
Following this, deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, who is also Delhis education minister, has asked the district magistrate to conduct a survey of the land owned by Shri Aurobindo Education Society (SAES) by March 8.
The society is in possession of 30 acres of land at Aurobindo Marg in South Delhi.
In the inspection report submitted by the Delhi Development Authority, it has come to our notice that the society has not submitted ownership documents of the land. Also, instead of having separate boundary for the ashram, Mothers International and Mirambika School as per the government rule, the three institutions have just one boundary. There are portions of land within this boundary that belong to the government. This is encroachment, said a government official.
Sisodia has written a letter on this issue to the divisional commissioner and secretary education. HT is in possession of the letter, which states, The DDA has stated that it has no record of how much land has been in possession of the society. Give a detailed report on how and when the possession of government-owned land got transferred to Aurobindo Ashram.
The official said that these irregularities came to light after parents moved court against Mirambika School in 2015. The parents had opposed the school managements decision in April 2015 to shift children from the original school premises, for which recognition was given in 1988.
The 36-year-old Mirambika Free Progress School is at present running from a building above a kitchen and adjacent to a grocery store within the Aurobindo shram area. It was in July 2015 the school was first shifted to this space, after first shifting the children inside the Ashram in April 2015.
The SAES had shifted the school saying that the land was allotted to build an engineering college and not a school. But the government said that the Delhi Development Authority was aware that instead of a college a free progress school was started.
If the society does not have ownership papers, it is clear that the entire construction is unauthorised, because the MCD does not give sanction for building plans which has been captured, said the official.
The chairman of the SAES and the head of the two schools did not respond to phone calls, text messages and email sent by HT.
Earlier, the government has asked for a CBI investigation in this case after it found several discrepancies in the affidavit submitted to the Delhi High Court, which was also withdrawn.
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A controversial European Union military headquarters to coordinate the bloc's overseas security operations will open in the coming months, EU diplomatic sources said Friday.
Brexit and doubts about US President Donald Trump's commitment to European security have given fresh impetus to EU ambitions to step up military cooperation, with France and Germany taking the lead.
"This is a big leap forward. It is supposed to start working initially in March and fully in June," one of the sources said.
EU foreign and defence ministers meeting Monday in Brussels will approve what is known as a Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC) unit, the sources said.
It will oversee the European Union's "non-executive" operations -- those that do not use force -- such as civil-military training missions in Mali, the Central African Republic and Somalia.
The EU also runs Operation Sophia in the central Mediterranean, which can use force to stop migrant smugglers, and Atalanta, part of international anti-piracy forces off the Horn of Africa.
These "executive" operations have their own command centres which will remain separate.
The diplomatic sources said the MPCC would show the EU was prepared to do more to contribute to international security but also stressed its limited role, at least for now.
"So, no smoking guns, just training. For us it is important to bring together civil and military capabilities," the source said.
European Commission head Jean-Claude Juncker called for a common EU defence HQ in September after the Brexit vote, resurrecting an idea that had circulated in the EU for years.
But some EU nations such as Britain and the former communist states in eastern Europe, are reluctant to do anything that might undercut NATO's collective defence role, believing the US-led alliance is still the only real option in face of a more assertive Russia.
The MPCC, based in Brussels, will have a small staff and be headed by a "director" not a commander, to avoid overt military connotations, another EU source said.
"We are not looking at an enormous new building for the new structure... this is not about executive missions," the source said.
"The general intention is to explore ways of how to use our capabilities more effectively," the source added.
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More than 150 police personnel will be deployed at the Delhi University to maintain the peace at North Campus, which has been inundated by protests by different student groups over the last week. A series of demonstrations have been carried out in Delhi by students from the RSS-backed Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and other DU students, led by Left groups such as AISA.
Though no incidence of violence has been reported since an anti-ABVP rally near Ramjas College on February 22 was allegedly disrupted by ABVP members, the police dont want to take any chances.
One section of these policemen will be deployed in and around the Arts Faculty. The other group will patrol the campus. This will go on for the next one week to ensure there is no further trouble, a senior police officer told HT.
The cops stationed there have been instructed to immediately call for additional forces at the first sign of trouble. The police force will be deployed 24 hours at the campus till we decide that the situation is normalised, said the officer.
Ever since violence erupted at DUs Ramjas College on February 22, the universitys North Campus has resembled a fortress with as many as 800 police personnel deployed there on certain days.
St Stephens College principal John Varghese has agreed to the students and teachers demand to hold consultations on the autonomy issue.
Varghese has said that he will write to the governing body to rescind the decision on applying for autonomy. He has also said that he will ask the body to begin the consultation process with all stakeholders.
The college had on February 25 held a governing body meet and said that they have decided to apply for autonomy in principle.
Autonomy for St Stephens would mean that it will cease to be a Delhi University (DU) constituent college and will be free to take its own decisions in framing syllabus, fee structure, starting new college branches and will enjoy other academic freedom.
Teachers and students are opposed to the move alleging it will disintegrate DU and it is a move towards privatisation.
Teachers and students have been protesting for a process of consultation and consensus on the issue before the college moves the application process. The students had started an #OccupyAndrewsCourt movement.
The decision was taken on Friday after the five-hour long staff council meeting. A resolution signed by 31 teachers was handed to the principal, which stated We express strong opposition to the decision of the governing body to seek autonomous status for the college. The staff council demands that the governing body rescind the decision that has grave implications for the financial stability, academic viability, fee structure, service conditions of employees and the basic character of the college as a public-funded institution that has provided affordable quality education to diverse sections of society.
Varghese gave a written assurance which said, The chair (principal) decided to carry the concerns of the teachers to the governing body and will urge the members to permit the principal to have the discussion with all stakeholders and then decide whether or not application for autonomy is made to DU and University Grants Commission.
With the principal agreeing to their demand, the teachers have decided to hold back the resignations from voluntary administrative positions, which they had threatened earlier.
The principal also addressed the students who had been sitting outside the venue of the staff council meeting.
We appreciate the principal for the stance he has taken. This is only the beginning of a monumental movement for upholding the spirit of democracy, debate and discussion the college has traditionally stood for, the students of the college said in a written statement.
The Tata-run Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) will challenge the New Delhi Municipal Councils (NDMC) decision to e-auction the iconic five-star Taj Mansingh Hotel.
Senior advocate Rajiv Nayyar, appearing for IHCL, told a bench headed by Justice PC Ghose that his client had serious objection to NDMCs decision and would file objections against it soon.
Read: NDMC cancels Le Meridiens licence, reaffirms decision to auction Taj Mansingh
The bench fixed March 22 to hear IHCLs petition, saying its licence to run the hotel should be renewed.
NDMC counsel, additional solicitor general Sanjay Jain told the court that e-auction would provide equal opportunity to IHCL to bid for the hotel. He said the auction would be live and transparent. IHCL would know which company is bidding for how much. Accordingly, they can also place their bid, he said.
However, the court said it wanted to hear IHCL on the NDMCs proposal and adjourned the matter. On IHCLs plea, the top court had in November last year directed NDMC to maintain status quo.
Read: Taj Mansingh hotel can run for now: SC stays order allowing auction of property
The property, owned by NDMC, was given to IHCL on a lease of 33 years, which ended in 2011. Nine temporary extensions were given to the company on various grounds with three of them granted last year itself.
The RSS is not known for being circumspect in its remarks on the minorities, but even by its standards the speech made by Kundan Chandrawat, prachar pramukh from Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is appalling.
In a rabid address, he not only spoke glowingly of the courage of Hindus in whom Shivajis blood runs in killing over 2,000 Muslims in the 2002 Gujarat riots, but also promised more reprisals. The most shocking part of his speech, however, was the offer of a Rs 1 crore bounty to anyone who would bring him the head of Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
After this statement, the RSS scrambled for cover saying that the organisation does not advocate violence. The BJP MP from Ujjain Chintamani Malviya sought to cover up the whole thing saying that Chandrawat was distraught at the killing of RSS workers in Kerala and was expressing his pent up feelings. While it is true that clashes between the CPI(M) and RSS are common in north Kerala with casualties on both sides, nothing justifies advocating murder.
Chandrawat has since expressed regret but this is not good enough. He should be arrested and charged with making a hate speech and inciting people to murder. His open praise of the Hindu mobs that killed Muslims during the fateful riots does no credit to the BJP, which was in power in the state at that time under the stewardship of then chief minister Narendra Modi. This is positively embarrassing for the party, which has distanced itself from those events.
The RSS has all too often made intemperate remarks and then retreated in the face of public outrage. The fact that offenders are let off lightly is what has encouraged the likes of Chandrawat to come up with such incendiary remarks. That they come during these volatile elections make it all the worse. This is a time when the minorities are feeling insecure, thanks to the often ugly political polarisation, especially in Uttar Pradesh.
The RSS is the mentor organisation of the party of governance. It has to take this issue of its leaders justifying communal violence and advocating murder far more seriously. The government should have issued a strong statement by now, but so far it has not. The argument that this was a personal opinion does not wash; he was addressing leaders and workers from both the RSS and BJP, and his remarks were apparently lauded.
He must feel the full force of the law. This will send out a signal to others of his ilk, and there are many, that this sort of intolerance will not be permitted.
Ranking at the top of the class is nothing new for Shubh Agrawal. He has been a topper ever since he entered school. But with a score of 1,590 out of 1,600, he is probably Indias highest scorer in the January 2017 SAT, conducted by the College Board, USA.
Sanjeev Kumar Pandey, centre coordinator and Shubhs mentor at the USA UnivQuest here in Lucknow, told this to HT as he shared some interesting insights on the 16-year-old who has now become the talk of town.
If you thought Shubh only browses science books, it is not true. Shubh is an avid reader of science fiction. At the moment he is reading Ninefox Gambit by Yoon Ha Lee. However, his favourite author is Stephen Hawking, said Pandey, who has been mentoring him for nearly three years now.
Shubh Agrawal with his parents and sister. (Handout image)
Stephen Hawking has had a profound influence on Shubh. The boys teacher quoted him as saying: After reading Hawkings bestselling book A Brief History of Time, I have aligned my goals with that of Hawkins. To repeat the words of Hawking My goal is simple. It is a complete understanding of the universe, why it is as it is, and why it exists at all. I therefore dream of being an astro-physicist.
Shubh has an exceptional grasp on the basic concepts of the sciences and mathematics. His lucid understanding of the complex topics in both subjects is reflected in his achievements, said Pandey.
Studying in class 11 of the City Montessori Schools Gomti Nagar branch, Shubh is the proud recipient of the National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) award from the government of India. He has also qualified for the KVPY (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana) test, and the results of his interviews are awaited.
An alumnus of St Francis College, Shubh is well liked by his teachers not only due to his diligence in studies but also because he is a great role model for other students. He is soft-spoken, composed, and communicates his opinion in a humble but clear way.
Abha Anant, principal of CMS Gomti Nagar, said, Shubh is extremely focused, disciplined and dogged in his efforts. Not just in academics, he is equally pro-active in co-curricular activities. He played a key role in organising the Model United Nations we had in our school.
Shubhs mother, Dr Mridula Agrawal, said he is a subdued and shy guy but self-driven when it comes to academics. He clearly knows what he wishes to study and why. Till he achieves his goal, he is relentless in his efforts, she added.
Shubh looks forward to studying at one of the best-ranked universities in the world. (Handout image)
His mothers observations were corroborated by his teacher-mentor Sanjeev Pandey, who has mentored Shubh over the previous year. USA UnivQuest is proud to have polished this gem for the world. Till date, he is yet to miss a scheduled class. He deserves to study in the best of universities, he said.
In his free time, Shubh can often be seen handling a huge telescope with his sister, Sukanya, on the terrace of their house. Together, they scan the skies in the hope of discovering a celestial body or indication of life on another planet. He now looks forward to studying at one of the best-ranked universities in the world.
Shubh Agarwal has made us proud by scoring 1,590 out of 1,600 marks in the SAT-R exam. This is the highest score in India for the SAT Test held on January 21, 2017. He scored 800 out of 800 in the mathematics section, and 790 out of 800 at evidence-based reading and writing in the English section.
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Fashion graduate Eshan Hilals love for gender fluid dressing is something he takes pride in. Clothes dont define someones gender. Girls wear mens clothing and are never questioned. Then why arent men allowed to do that, too?, says Hilal.
He recently impressed all as he walked down the ramp in a gender fluid creation by NIFTs student designers Devanshi Tuli, Tamanna Mehra, Sonal Bhardwaj, Mansi Dua. The 24 year-old, Indias first male belly dancer was invited at the NIFTs annual cultural fest, Spectrum. Ive never walked on the ramp before, hence I was nervous. I was apprehensive about wearing a lampshade like dress where, I had to bare my legs. But, I was told that Ill be able to rock it, says Hilal. The idea of wearing heels clicked, as it goes with his gender fluid sartorial choices.
He describes his childhood to be messed up, and says that once he understood and accepted himself as he was, there was no looking back. My family calls it a phase and thinks Ill get over it. I remember getting a septum piercing and was ridiculed. But, when actor Ranveer Singh wore a septum ring for a magazine cover, same people told me that maybe I was trying to copy him (laughs), he says.
Fashion education was another reason for his love for gender fluid dressing, as he learned that heels (his love as he defines them) were a thing men wore much before women.
Eshan Hilal strikes a pose during his ramp walk. (Abhishek Lal)
There is nothing that waivers Hilals confidence now and he says that his sartorial choices are not meant for just a show. Ive built my confidence over years and nothing shakes it now. I love wearing heels, skirts and accessories and always balance them well with masculine choices, too. I do it because it comes from within and I do not try to impose my choice on anyone. My fashion inspiration comes from designers like Marc Jacobs, Jean Paul Gaultier, Yohji Yamamoto and others who have always gone beyond the usual style in fashion and create art that they just dont endorse but also wear, he says.
In fact, Belly dancing helped me become more confident. When I walked on the ramp at NIFT, I without speaking, told the crowd that I am something. Look at me. You can love me or hate me, but you cant ignore me. And that worked wonderfully! I am now addicted and want to be a fashion gender fluid model, he adds.
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Police arrested four men, suspected to be gangsters, from a farmhouse near Ansal crossing, Sohna town, on Thursday evening. Sources said the accused were planning a murder at the instance of a jailed gangster.
The men allegedly fired at the police before they were overpowered and arrested. They allegedly belong to a gang led by Rakesh alias Pannu, who carries a reward of Rs 50,000 on his arrest. The arrested men were identified as Pawan alias Pouna , Gaurav , Sanjay and Vinod. All have several cases against them, the police said.
The police said they were active in Sohna and Gurgaon for the past two years.
Earlier, they were arrested by the Panipat police after they had fired on the police team during a night patrolling when they were asked to stop their vehicle for a routine check at the barricade. They came out on bail recently, the police said.
Police said that the gang is involved in more than 50 incidents of kidnapping, robberies, dacoity and car-jacking in Gurgaon, Rajasthan and Delhi.
Four pistols, a revolver, a countrymade pistol and 40 live cartridges were recovered from their possession along with two stolen motorbikes.
Crime branch team-5 of Sohna arrested the quartet after a brief encounter in which a police officer suffered minor injuries.
Inspector Arun Kumar, in charge, crime investigation agency, Sohna, said the accused are being questioned and more arrests are likely soon. They were waiting for their accomplices and planning something big. Pannu was arrested earlier as well when I was with the crime investigation agency in Palam Vihar, Kumar said.
The police also claimed that one of their officers was also injured, when they were trying to nab the gang.
According to the police, they got a tip-off about some suspicious activity in a farmhouse near Ansal crossing on Thursday. A crime team rushed to the spot around 5pm and apprehended the men.
When the police team raided the spot, these men tried to flee but were nabbed. They are professional criminals and used to steal vehicles from the same area before executing a crime, Kumar said.
Meanwhile, the Sohna crime branch also arrested two thieves from Indri Morh, Sohna. The two accused are involved in a number of thefts and have been identified as Nafees (29), a resident of Nuh, and Nissar, also a resident of Nuh.
One Maruti 800 and seven motorcycles were recovered from them.
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The crime branch team of the Gurgaon police arrested two more accused in the Farrukhnagar double murder case from near Uttam Nagar metro station in Delhi on Thursday.
On February 23, two men were killed and one seriously injured in a shooting at Fazilpur morh in Farrukhnagar town, 25km from Gurgaon. The murders were allegedly carried out at the behest of Ved Saini, a property dealer, who had sold a plot to the victims. When the victims found that the plot was disputed they demanded the money back, which led to them being killed.
Two persons, identified as Sandeep and Ram Avtar, were shot dead while Sunil alias Sinu was critically injured. It was at the instance of Sinu, who gave his statement to the police, that the accused were identified and arrested.
The duo Yuvraj (32), a resident of Bamdola, Jhajjar, and Rajesh (37), a resident of Badhani, Jhajjar were arrested while trying to escape from the national capital, the police said. They will be produced in a court on Saturday and the police might seek a two-day remand of the duo.
Teenu is said to be the main shooter in the double murder and has a criminal record.
Police investigation had revealed that a 1,000 square yard plot was sold by Saini to the victims, who paid Rs 48 lakh for it. However, when the buyers found that it was a fraudulent deal, they demanded that their money be returned and managed to get Rs 12 lakh. Saini then invited the three men to his office to give them the remaining amount on February 23. They were gunned down when they reached the office.
We arrested the accused from Uttam Nagar and now one more is left to be arrested. They were planning to flee from the city, Sanjeev Balhara, ACP (crime), said.
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Urban noise pollution and hearing loss are closely linked, according to rankings of 50 large cities in both categories released on Friday.
High-decibel urban areas such as Guangzhou, New Delhi, Cairo and Istanbul topped the list of cities where hearing was most degraded, researchers reported.
Likewise, cities least afflicted by noise pollution including Zurich, Vienna, Oslo and Munich registered the lowest levels of decline in hearing.
This statistical link does not necessarily mean the constant din of city life is the main driver of hearing loss, which can also be caused by infections, genetic disorders, premature birth, and even some medicines.
The findings are also preliminary, and have yet to be submitted for peer-reviewed publication.
But this is a robust result, said Henrik Matthies, managing director of Mimi Hearing Technologies, a German company that has amassed data on 200,000 people drawn from a hearing test administered via cell phones.
New Delhi, Guangzhou, Cairo and Istanbul topped the list of high-decibel cities where hearing was most degraded. (In picture) A crowded street in the Chandni Chowk area of Old Delhi. (Shutterstock)
The fact that noise pollution and hearing loss have such a tight correlation points to an intricate relationship, he said. Researchers at Mimi and Charite University Hospital in Berlin explored the link by constructing two separate databases.
The first combined information from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Norwegian-based technology research group SINTEF to create a noise pollution ranking for cities around the world.
Stockholm, Seoul, Amsterdam and Stuttgart were also among the least likely to assault ones ears, while Shanghai, Hong Kong and Barcelona came out as big noise makers.
Paris one of the most densely populated major cities in Europe scored as the third most cacophonous.
The ranking for hearing loss drew from Mimis phone-based test, in which respondents indicated age and sex. Geo-location technology pinpointed the cities.
Silent epidemic
The results were measured against a standard for age-adjusted hearing. On average, people in the loudest cities were ten years older in terms of hearing loss than those in the quietest cities, the study found.
Stacked side-by-side, the two city rankings are remarkably similar, suggesting more than an incidental link. The findings highlight the need for better monitoring, the researchers said.
While eye and sight checks are routine, ear and hearing exams are not, said Manfred Gross, head of the department of Audiology and Phoniatrics at Charite University Hospital.
The earlier hearing loss is detected, the better the chances are for preventing further damage.
Collaborations between scientists and private companies that collect health-related information from consumers are becoming more common in the era of Big Data. California-based DNA genetic testing company 23andMe, for example, has worked extensively with university researchers to ferret out rare genetic disorders by combing through mountains of anonymous data from its clients.
Also on Friday, World Hearing Day, the WHO released figures showing annual costs of unaddressed hearing loss of between $750 billion and $790 billion globally.
Direct health care costs were calculated to be up to $107 billion, with loss of productivity due to unemployment or early retirement about the same.
Heavy traffic on El-Orouba street, one of the main roads leading to the Cairo International Airport. (Shutterstock)
Societal costs stemming from social isolation, inability to communicate and stigma were estimated at more than $500 billion.
In a recent editorial, the medical journal The Lancet said hearing loss is a silent epidemic, noting that proper care remains out of reach for millions of people.
Mimi Hearing Technologies develops music applications that adjust to the individual hearing deficiencies of listeners.
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Virtual reality headsets are often associated with video games and fun, but companies are also working to use them for mental health therapies, to treat phobias, anxiety or addictions.
Some phobias, for instance, can be effectively treated by gradually exposing a patient to his or her worst fear, be it spiders, plane travel or small, enclosed spaces.
TeleSoftas, a Lithuanian firm that develops mobile apps, believes this exposure therapy can easily be achieved from the safety of a health professionals consulting room using the headsets.
With virtual reality you can create audiovisual therapies in a safe environment for phobics, Algirdas Stonys, CEO TeleSoftas, said at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the phone industrys largest annual trade fair.
So for instance, someone who is scared of speaking in public would find himself in front of a room full of people, virtually.
TeleSoftas has just received EU funding to finance the development of mental health apps for virtual reality headsets, in collaboration with academics. Psious, a Spanish start-up, is also in a similar field.
Exposure therapies are designed to encourage the individual to enter feared situations, either in the real world or through imagined exercises. But we thought that in this digital age, there had to be something more, said CEO Xavier Palomer Ripoll.
Created three years ago because one of its founders was scared of flying, the firm develops apps for psychotherapists who can download them and use them on virtual reality headsets. The doctor then choses an adequate environment.
For instance, once kitted out with the headset, a person with vertigo will find him- or herself in a lift going up or down a skyscraper. Using a computer, the psychotherapist can propel the lift higher and higher, or make the floor transparent to increase the difficulty of the exercise.
Some phobias can be effectively treated by gradually exposing a patient to his or her worst fear, be it spiders, plane travel or small, enclosed spaces. (Shutterstock)
They can also gauge how well the patient is doing by seeing, for example, if they are able to look down.
Psious raised close to a million euros (over Rs 7 crore) in 2015, and provides the technology to some 600 doctors, mostly in Spain. In parallel, it is currently going through nine clinical trials with universities to get long-term efficacy data.
TeleSoftas, meanwhile, hopes to eventually be able to offer virtual environments to treat obsessive-compulsive disorders, post-traumatic syndromes, alcoholism or smoking. Several American start-ups are working on similar applications as well.
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Investment minister Nasr said half the money would go to the governments reform programme, and half to sectors including SMEs and micro-enterprises
Germany plans to provide Egypt with $500 million in support of the country's economic reform programme and local micro, small, and medium sized enterprises, the countrys Minister of International Cooperation and Investment Sahar Nasr announced on Friday.
We have reached agreement with Germany on the offer of $250 million in support of the governments economic programme, and another $250 million to support several sectors including SMEs and micro-enterprises, the minister said in a statement.
Nasr announced Berlin's offer at the Egyptian-German Business Forum, held during German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit to Cairo this week, on which she was accompanied by a delegation of German investors.
Merkel promised the $250 million to support the country's economic reform programme during a prior joint press conference with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi.
Nasr said she was looking forward to more German investment in Cairo, assuring attendees of the forum that her ministry had finalised an investment law, currently under discussion in parliament.
The minister's statements come a few days after Germanys Ambassador to Egypt Julius Georg Luy said that German investors would be interested in investing in Egypt, but still had questions about assurances in the sector.
Luy said that his country was waiting for the investment law to be approved so that it could be presented to investors.
German investments in Egypt are estimated to total 1.5 billion, according to the ambassador, and provide around 22,000 jobs.
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You think you are a Hollywood know-it-all? You think you know all the biggest stars? Well, here is a test to test your faith in yourself.
Below is a picture of a female actor shooting for her upcoming film. The catch here is that the make-up and costume make her look nothing like her real self.
A post shared by (@kinoproo) on Mar 2, 2017 at 8:57pm PST
Any idea?
A post shared by showbuzz.hr (@showbuzzhr) on Mar 2, 2017 at 12:33pm PST
We can tell you she is a known master of disguise.
A post shared by Dakota Johnson fan account (@gorgeousdakota) on Mar 2, 2017 at 10:57am PST
OK fine, well reveal it to you....
*Drum roll *
Its Tilda Swinton!
A post shared by HELLO! Russia (@hello__ru) on Mar 3, 2017 at 12:50am PST
The British actor is currently shooting for the remake of 1977 Italian triller, Suspiria. But as to why has she donned the elderly man make up is still a mystery.
Tilda has previously also experimented with different looks for her films. Here she is in The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe playing the White Witch.
In Trainwreck
In The Grand Budapest Hotel
In Snowpiercer
And in her last film, Doctor Strange
Suspiria is about a newcomer to a fancy ballet academy who gradually realises that the school is a front for something far more sinister and supernatural because of a series of grisly murders. It also stars Fifty Shades of Greys Dakota Johnson and Kick-Asss Chloe Grace Moretz.
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Seventeen persons were killed when their jeep collided with a truck in Rajasthans Hanumangarh district on Friday, police said.
The mishap occurred in Hanumangarh town police station area on Rawatsar-Hanumangarh mega highway.
The bodies have been shifted to a local hospital, SHO Anwar Khan said, adding that further details are awaited.
An office of the ruling CPM was set afire in Keralas Kozhikkode district early on Friday in what is seen as a retaliation to an attack on four RSS activists, police said.
The CPI (M)s Kozhikkode district committee blamed the Sangh Parivar for the attack on the ruling partys Vishnumangalam branch office.
The offices of both the RSS and CPI (M) are situated in a five-km radius.
Police said they are keeping a tight vigil in the area to contain escalation of violence between the fierce political rivals.
Four activists of the BJP-RSS were injured in trouble-torn Nadapuram in the same district on Thursday night in an alleged attack by a group of CPI (M) cadres with country-made bombs.
According to police the incident occurred when the BJP workers were coming out of the RSS office in the area. Of the injured, the condition of a worker is said to be serious. The RSS office also suffered minor damage in the attack.
The latest incident took place hours after an RSS leader from Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh announced a reward of Rs one crore on the head Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
The state has been witnessing a series of clashes between the two cadre-based parties that have claimed hundreds of lives over the years.
In neighbouring Kannur district, clashes between the two have claimed the lives of at least 300 lives in last three decades.
The RSS Kerala unit on Thursday night described the government of Pinarayi Vijayan a cabinet of killers.
The violent attacks are being done at the behest of the chief minister of Kerala. He is the initiator of the attacks. He is presiding a cabinet of killers. They are not innocents, ANI quoted RSS ideologue Rakesh Sinha as saying.
It is time for the home ministry to intervene, he added.
He said Vijayan was first accused of killing of an RSS worker in the 1960s. Technically he is free, but morally and politically he is an accused, he added.
(With agency inputs)
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Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav on Friday refuted PM Narendra Modis claim that last years Kanpur train accident was a conspiracy hatched across the border. Yadav alleged that BJP leaders were used to seeking votes by misguiding the people.
Prime minister Modi had made the claim at an election rally last week in Uttar Pradeshs Gonda after the arrest of four men in Nepal and Bihar in January, who allegedly told police that the Pakistani spy agency, Inter Services Intelligence (ISI), was behind the Kanpur accident.
Our railway minister could not take care of the tracks in Kanpur and gave a false report to the prime minister that the ISI had damaged the tracks. I want to say that since the incident occurred in Uttar Pradesh, at least I should have been informed about it...But, no information...no truth in it, Yadav told an election rally in Ghazipur, the Lok Sabha constituency of Union minister of state for railways Manoj Sinha.
The sixth phase of the Uttar Pradesh elections will be held on Saturday and the seventh and final phase on March 8. Results will be declared on March 11.
Akhilesh also alleged that the leaders of the saffron party were used to seeking votes by misleading the people.
As many as 150 people were killed in a train mishap in Kanpur on November 20, 2016, and on December 28, another train got derailed there. It was said that Pakistans ISI was responsible for the incidents.
Regarding Union ministers and senior BJP leaders campaigning for the polls, the chief minister said, Had the prime minister brought his work here (in Uttar Pradesh), his ministers would not have been required to campaign for his party.
In a veiled reference to the ongoing campus row in Delhi University involving ABVP, the RSS-linked students body, Yadav said, I want to ask those patriotic people of the BJP, who are displaying their nationalism in Delhi, what have they done for the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country? What help was extended to their families?
He added: Only the SP government helps the families of soldiers who laid down their lives.
The Samajwadi Party chief claimed that his party has already secured a lead in the first five phases of the seven-phase Uttar Pradesh Assembly election due to the works of its government and added that the demoralised faces of the BJP and BSP leaders said it all.
An army jawan from Kerala was found dead near his camp in Nashik, barely a few days after he accused senior officers of harassment, his family members said on Friday.
The body of gunner Roy Mathew was recovered on Thursday near his camp in Maharashtra.
Though the army believes it to be a case of suicide, family members of 33-year-old Mathew said they suspect foul play. They have demanded a probe into the circumstances leading to his death.
The alleged suicide comes amid of a spate of allegations of poor working conditions and harassment faced by jawans in the armed forces.
Roy went missing on Monday, a day after calling up his wife at Kollam to say that he had made a big mistake, an apparent reference to an interview he had given to a local television channel accusing senior officers of mistreatment at the Nashik camp.
His interview to a Marathi language channel was aired on Monday.
Though the channel had promised to keep his identity a secret, Roy told his wife, his senior officials came to know about it. Roys wife, Fini Mathew, said after the call he was incommunicado for last three days.
The CO (commanding officer) informed us that a body similar to that of Roy has been found and it was shifted to a hospital for post-mortem. Other than this we havent received any other information, Roys brother John Mathew said.
Family members said they had contacted Nashik district administration but were told it was yet to receive any official communication from the army on his death.
According to family members of Mathew Roy he often complained to his wife about the alleged slavery prevailing in the unit. Often junior level employees were forced to do domestic work at officers residences.
Though the army had made it clear last year that it was planning to stop the sahayak post the system continued without any hindrance, he told his wife. He also said though some of the employees were happy do all errands including gardening and rearing dogs of the officers he simply hated to do such menial jobs.
Roys wife has petitioned chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan seeking his intervention over the issue.
Roy had travelled to his home on December 3 and returned to Nashik on December 23.
He joined army 13 years ago and was working as a gunner with the 214 Rocket Regiment in Nashik for the past one year.
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The Chhattisgarh high court on Thursday asked the Bastar administration to exhume the bodies of two tribals who were killed allegedly in a fake police encounter and conduct a post-mortem again.
The court also issued a notice to the state government seeking its reply to a petition that claimed the tribals were killed in a fake encounter on January 28.
The court has instructed the officials of Bastar, including collector Dantewada, to exhume the two bodies and conduct a second autopsy. The court further said that the autopsy should be video recorded in the presence of the officials and a detailed report of the case should be submitted to the court within a week, said Kishore Nayaran, the victims counsel.
On January 28, police allegedly shot Bhima Kudati and Sukmati Hemla in the jungles of Hairauli Paurangal in Dantewada district. Police said both were Maoists and that a rifle along with other weapons was recovered from the encounter site.
Villagers accused the police of sexually assaulting Hemla before killing her and sought an independent inquiry as well as a second autopsy on her body. They also claimed that eyes of the two had been gouged out.
The family member of the dead tribals alleged that the police abducted them on January 27 when they were returning from the weekly Kirandul market and killed them saying they were Maoists.
For 20 days, villagers refused to bury the bodies and staged a protest outside Kirandul police station against the killing. They also demanded a registration of the case against the accused policemen.
Special director general (Naxals), DM Awasthi had sought a report from the Bastar police, who maintained that the allegations were baseless.
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The mom-and-pop stores have stopped selling them. So have other bigger chains. But a ban on aerated foreign cola drinks clamped by Tamil Nadus traders have not stopped many stores from still selling the preferred brands of a large section of the people Coke and Pepsi.
In Beasant Nagar, an upmarket sea-side residential colony in south Chennai, Adyar Bakery is a popular and busy confectionary, coffee and soft drink shop and always bustling with customers. The filter coffee machine is located outside the shop and adjacent to it is a cigarette kiosk all part of the shop that also stocks Pepsi and Coke in company-provided refrigerators.
Responding to a call by the Federation of Tamil Nadu Traders Associations, thousands of commercial outlets across the state are boycotting cola products of PepsiCo and Coca Cola since Wednesday in a move that could cost the two soft drink giants an estimated Rs 1,400 crore in losses.
Late on Thursday evening, a senior worker said the boycott was fifty-fifty. But he was a trifle nervous and wanted no pictures taken of his shop or himself. He would not even reveal his name for.
Across the city, at the all-the-time-busy T Nagar, a commercial area, many shops are still stocking the offending drinks which are accused of depleting water from the states rivers and reservoirs.
It is another matter that Indian companies will also need as much water for the desi soft drinks
A roadside storekeeper said he was having no problem in getting supplies of Coke. As long as people want and we are able to sell, we will continue, he said.
At Walltax Road in Sowcarpet, thickly populated by Rajasthani and Gujarati trading communities, it is business as usual for the soft drink majors.
If the experience of Murugan of Murugan Snacks, a small kiosk selling soft drinks and snacks, is any indication, the cola majors have nothing to worry about.
Firstly, they were very popular with the regulars to TASMAC liquor shops, Murugan said, elaborating why he preferred to sell these MNC brands.
The young ones come here, pick up a Pepsi and something to munch, along with their quota of the sprits that cheer. Coke and Pepsi are cheaper than local brands, and are available in different sizes, even smaller throwaway bottles. The lesser quantity, smaller ones are the more popular items, Murugan said.
But this sentiment is not shared by everyone.
For some, like S Kumaran, who runs a big grocery store in a residential colony of Gandhi Nagar at Adyar in south Chennai, the boycott is a good thing.
I have not ordered any fresh stock and these are the only few bottles left. I have also asked the companies (Coke and Pepsi) to take back their refrigerators, he said. Already, he has planned what to do with the space he would get once the fridges were gone.
In neighboring Mylapore residential-cum-commercial area, nearly half the shopkeepers dont want to stock the soft drinks of the cola majors. The big grocery store, Farida Stores, on Raghavachari street, will no longer give you a Pepsi.
Instead he has Bovonto, a local cola drink. Similarly, if you are in the locality that hosts the largest vegetable wholesale market Koyambedu many shops have put up signboards saying No to Pepsi and Coke.
S Kamesh, a class XII student, summed up the situation.
It would be a tad difficult, but not impossible to get hold of a Pepsi if you are determined, he said.
We might have to go across to couple of shops, may have to go to a different colony. It is not as if Coke and Pepsi are completely gone.
Then there are others who are against all aerated drinks.
Tender coconut or fresh fruit juices are good for health, said Radha Shekhar. If the boycott leads to a rise in number of people taking to fruit juices, it would be a welcome development.
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Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, the American actor and humanitarian activist Richard Gere and the 17th Karmapa, the head of Karma Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism Ogyen, Trinley Dorje , will be at Nalanda to discuss relevance of Buddhism in the 21st Century, considered widely as the age of aggression and violence.
Buddhists from over 30 countries, including the supreme Buddhist patriarchs from Mongolia, Russia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Vietnam and Bangladesh, are expected to attend the discussion, which will be part of the three-day international Buddhist conference, hosted jointly by the ministry of culture and the Nav Nalanda Mahavihara, beginning March 17.
While the Dalai Lama will inaugurate the event, President Pranab Mukherjee is expected to attend the valedictory function.
The session would focus on issues like perspectives and responses to global challenges and crisis, conflicts, peace building and Buddhist responses, environment and nature conservation and Buddhist perspectives, women and Buddhism, among others.
The 40-volume of Pali Tripitaka, which has been reprinted by the Nav Nalanda Mahavihara after a gap of nearly six decades, will also be released on the occasion.
Very soon we will also publish the Hindi translation of this book. The ministry of culture has already approved the proposal, registrar of the Nav Nalanda Mahavihara, Sunil Kumar Sinha, said.
Buddhist scholars will also discuss how Buddhist philosophy could be helpful in creating a balance between economic development and conservation of nature and environment and in maintaining secular ethics.
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The Election Commission rejected on Friday the response of Tamil Nadus ruling AIADMK party on the elevation of VK Sasikala as its general secretary, saying TTV Dinakaran, who signed the letter, was not in its list of the partys office-bearers.
It has now asked Sasikala to either sign the response herself or by an authorised signatory who is in the commissions list of AIADMK office bearers and send it again by March 10.
... Dinakaran (Sasikalas nephew, who was hurriedly reinducted into the party and nominated AIADMK deputy general secretary) is not an office bearer of your party as per the Commissions record... The reply should either be submitted under your own signature or you may duly authorise somebody to do so on your behalf, the poll watchdog said.
Sasikala is at present lodged in a Bengaluru jail.
The AIADMK had defended the decision to appoint Sasikala as its interim general secretary, saying the general council of the party has the authority to make such an appointment.
In its response to the February 17 notice by the Election Commission, the AIADMK also said those who later complained against Sasikalas elevation had initially signed the resolution in her support.
The party had told the Commission that its functioning would have come to a standstill had a new general secretary not been appointed after the demise of J Jayalalithaa.
Eminent progressive thinker and Ambedkarite Dr Krishna Kirwale (62) was stabbed to death in his house near Shivaji Vidyapeeth in Kolhapur this evening. Police have arrested a suspect in this connection. Police suspect that the murder might be a fallout of a financial dispute.
After senior police officials rushed to the spot, the suspect was tracked down and arrested within hours of the murder. He has been identified as Pritam Patil. The police said Patil is a resident of Kolhapur but refused to divulge any further details.
However, sources in Kolhapur police said suspect had worked as a carpenter at Dr Kirwales house a few days ago. He reportedly had a dispute with him over payment for the work done.
A large number of people gathered outside Dr Kirwales, suspecting the murder took place on ideological grounds. But the crowd dispersed after realising the real motive behind the murder.
The body of Dr Kirwale was found in a pool of in his Rajendra Nagar area residence near Shivaji Vidyapeeth. The body has been sent for postmortem.
Additional police force was deployed in some parts of Kolhapur as Dr Kirwale was a respected personality among the followers of Dr B R Ambedkar. Given the states past record and killing of a number of Dalit activists and whistleblowers, the police swung into action and nabbed a suspect hours after the incident.
Dr Kirwales muder come three years after the killing of another well-know Kolhapur resident, Govind Pansare, a veteran Communist leader and thinker.
Dr Kirwale had retired as Head of Department of Marathi in the Shivaji Vidyapeeth just a few months ago. Known for his progressive thoughts, Dr Kirwale was chief of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Centre for Research and Development.
Dr Kirwale had authored a special dictionary on words used by Dr Ambedkar in his writings and speeches. Popular among the students, Dr Kirwale was known for his study on progressive movements and Dalit literature in Maharashtra. He had written several books and used to write for newspapers.
Born in May 1954 in Beed district of Marathwada region, Dr Kirwale had completed his PhD from Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in 1987.
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India on Friday downplayed its participation in an upcoming meeting in Pakistan to discuss various aspects of the Indus Waters Treaty, saying it does not amount to resumption of government-level Indo-Pak talks, which have been stalled over terrorist strikes by Pak-based groups.
Senior government officials insisted that the Permanent Indus Commission, which will meet in Lahore later this month, deals with technical matters concerning implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty and not with any political aspect.
Indias participation comes nearly six months after New Delhi decided to suspend talks on the pact in the wake of the terror strikes by groups based across the border.
Noting that the commission has met 112 times since 1960, they said the Indian representative to the commission has accepted an invitation by his Pakistani counterpart for the meeting. No date has been set for the meeting.
Mutually convenient dates and mutually agreeable agenda are worked out directly by the commissioners themselves and the government has no role in this regard, said a senior government official.
The commission is not concerned with political aspects, he said, adding that there is no shift in the governments stance.
Declaring that blood and water cannot flow together, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had held a meeting in September to review the treaty in the backdrop of the terror strikes, including the Uri attack.
After the meeting, officials had announced that the government has decided to suspend further talks and increase the utilisation of rivers flowing through Jammu and Kashmir to fully exercise Indias rights under the pact.
The last meeting of the commission was held in May 2015.
The commission, which has officials from both the countries as its members, was set up under the 57-year-old treaty to discuss and resolve issues relating to its implementation.
The commission is a body entrusted with everyday implementation of the IWT, which mandates it to meet at least once every year, alternately in India and Pakistan.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has dismissed a widely-cited international report which said India recorded the highest number of deaths because of exposure to surface-level ozone and that it has surpassed China as the deadliest in the world.
The State of Global Air report 2017, released in February, said the number of deaths due to ozone pollution increased from 43,480 in 1990 to 107,770 in 2015.
As the most populous countries, India and China account for most of the ozone-attributable COPD ( chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) deaths across all years, but India accounts for much (about 67%) of the global increase since 1990. Over the last 25 years, India experienced a nearly 150% increase in ozone-attributable deaths, while Chinas number remained about the same, the study said.
The death toll in India was 13 times higher than Bangladeshs, and 21 times higher than Pakistans, it claimed.
The same study also said Indias rapidly worsening air pollution is causing over 1 million people to die prematurely each year and is catching up fast with China in terms of deaths linked to dangerous air particles, known as PM2.5.
A senior scientist at the CPCB, Indias top pollution regulator, countered the studys findings saying that surface ozone levels in India are within safe limits, adding that they had, in fact, fallen because of a dip in solar radiation.
There is no violation of our standards. Anyone can say anything. I am not aware of their methodology but Ozone level is not exceeding so seriously in India, Dipankar Saha, who is in charge of CPCBs air lab, told Press Trust of India.
It is exceeding in some places, some day. But it is not a routine phenomenon. You cannot link early deaths to Ozone. Moreover, solar radiation is reducing so Ozone formation will be less, he said.
The CPCB is preparing its own report on the issue, according to Saha.
Last month, Union minister for state for environment Anil Madhav Dave also expressed scepticism over the findings by foreign studies, insisting that India should rely on data generated within the country.
Surface-level ozone is not the same as the ozone layer that protects the earth from the suns radiation but is formed because of a chemical reaction between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. The main sources of these two reactants are industrial facilities, power plants and vehicular exhaust.
It is particularly harmful to children, the elderly and those suffering from respiratory ailments.
The permissible limit for ozone levels according to CPCB standards is 100 micrograms per metre cube (g/m3) over eight hours. Data from the pollution control authoritys monitoring stations revealed that at two sites, Shadipur and Dwarka, ozone levels peaked at 164 (ug/m3) in May last year.
The State of Global Air report was issued jointly by the Health Effects Institute, a US-based research institute focused on the health impacts of air pollution, and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, a population health research centre in Seattle.
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Motoihari A teenage murder witness was injured in a hit-and-run case two days before she was supposed to depose in a Motihari court, on Thursday.
Shweta Kumari, 19, an undergraduate student of the Mahatma Gandhi Central University of Bihar, Motihari, complained to the police that a person accused in her brothers murder had attacked her.
She claimed the motorcyclist hit her from behind, with an intention to kill her, when she was going to write her exam.
In her complaint to the police, Kumari said she had been receiving threats not to pursue the murder case of her brother. The police have lodged a criminal case in this connection.
Siddharth Raj, brother of the witness who was killed last year. (HT photo)
Kumaris brother, Siddharth Raj, 13, was shot in August 2015. Raj had reportedly developed intimacy with a girl a relationship her brother did not approve of.
Kumari, who claims to be a witness to the murder of her brother, has accused the girls brother, Prince Pandey, and five others to have killed Raj. The other accused are Vishal Kumar Dubey, Rajen Sahni, Prashant Kumar, Raja Kumar and Mani Kumar, all believed to be Pandeys friends
Of the six accused, the police have so far been able to nab Pandey and Dubey, both minors. The remaining four are still absconding.
Pandey escaped going to correction home on the basis of a doctors certificate, stating that he was under treatment for mental illness. Dubey, languishing in a correction facility, reportedly threatened the superintendent of Motihari remand home, after which he was shifted to Muzaffarpur last week.
Town police station inspector, Ajay Kumar, said: We have registered a case on the basis of the girls complaint. The girl has alleged that she was receiving threats to stay away from deposing in court in connection with the murder case of her brother. The girl has complained that the person who tried to bump her off is also an accused in the killing of her brother.
East Champaran superintendent of police (SP) Jitendra Rana ordered the arrest of those absconding in the Raj murder case and also ensure that Pandey was sent to the correction facility.
Considering the gravity of the matter, the juvenile justice board will be requested to cancel the relief granted to Pandey on medical grounds, Rana said. The police would also ensure Kumaris deposition in the court amidst adequate protection, he added.
In a somewhat similar case in Gaya, 107 kms south of Patna, a physically challenged eyewitness in a murder case was burnt alive at Narawat village in Atari police station area on Tuesday, a day before he was to depose in court.
ALLEGATION Victim girl says she had been receiving threats not to pursue the murder case of her brother
BLURB
Kumaris brother, Siddharth Raj, 13, was shot in August 2015. He had reportedly developed intimacy with a girl a relationship her brother did not approve of
The groundwork has begun for Prime Minister Narendra Modis historic visit to Israel in July this year with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on a quiet two-day visit to Tel Aviv. Doval left for Israel on February 28 and is expected back on March 3.
The Modi government remains tight-lipped about the NSAs tour, but Doval is understood to have met Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as well his counterpart Yosef Cohen who also heads the intelligence agency Mossad. Dovals visit will lay the foundation for Modis visitthe first ever by an Indian prime ministerto celebrate 25 years of diplomatic ties and take the bilateral relationship to a new level. Doval will be followed by Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar and Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar in the run-up to Modis visit.
South Block officials told Hindustan Times that Doval is not only expected to finalize the dates of Modis visitthe first week of July appears likelybut also discuss the security and defence agenda for the visit. It is learnt that both sides have exchanged views of regional developments, including those in Syria, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, with Tel Aviv worried at the role of Tehran in destabilizing West Asia. The involvement of China-Pakistan-Russia-Iran axis in supporting the Taliban against the Islamic State in the Af-Pak region has also been a cause for concern for both India and Israel as well as the Western powers.
During the visit, Modi is expected to ink a $2.5-billion deal to jointly develop medium-range surface-to-air missiles for the Indian Army. Other projects in the pipeline include third generation Spike anti-tank guided missile systems, Spyder quick reaction surface-to-air missiles as well as the acquisition of two more of the PHALCON Airborne Warning and Control System. India and Israel have institutionalized ties at the security agency level with both sides sharing critical information related to terrorism.
Modis visit will move beyond the security relationship with Israel and into close bilateral cooperation in trade, agriculture and top-end technology. A free trade agreement is also being looked at as a possibility.
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The Supreme Court expressed concern on Friday over farmers suicide due to crop failure and asked the government to come up with a concrete roadmap within three weeks to eliminate the reasons for the agrarian crisis.
A bench headed by Chief Justice JS Khehar felt the government was working in a wrong direction in tackling the real problem.
This issue is of extreme importance. Paying compensation to the families of such victims post-facto is not the real solution, the bench said.
Farmers take loan from banks and when they are unable to repay, they commit suicide. The remedy to the problem is not to pay money to farmers after the suicide, but you should have schemes to prevent this, the bench said, fixing March 27 to hear a public interest litigation that has drawn the courts attention to the crisis.
Additional solicitor general PS Narasimha, appearing for the Centre, apprised the bench about the schemes the government has initiated, including the 2016 crop insurance scheme.
This would be a game-changer and would drastically reduce such fateful incidents, he submitted, requesting the bench to give him time to file a detailed affidavit.
Narasimha admitted there was a need to strengthen the existing schemes to make farmers feel that the government would stand behind them in distress.
Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, appearing for the petitioner non-profit organisation Citizens Resource and Action and Initiative -- said government policies have existed for long, but have never been implemented effectively.
He suggested the court to constitute a committee of experts who could examine the various studies held on the issue and place quick-fix solutions.
A local court on Thursday summoned yoga guru Ramdev as an accused under Section 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for April 29, almost a year after his beheading remark in the district.
Courting controversy, Ramdev had, on April 3 last year, said if not for law, he would have beheaded lakhs of people refusing to chant Bharat Mata Ki Jai.
He was addressing a gathering at the RSS-backed Sadbhawana Rally. The rally was organised to promote peace in a city that had witnessed unprecedented violence during Jat stir and Ramdev was responding to the comment made by AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi who had said he will not chant Bharat Mata Ki Jai even if a knife is put to his throat.
A day after he gave the statement, local Congress leader Subhash Batra submitted a complaint to the police to book him for sedition. Batra later moved court, seeking an FIR when the police didnt act. During the hearing on February 27, Supreme Court lawyer RK Anand argued the case from Congress leaders side, when the court had asked for a precedent in such case. During todays hearing, Anand sent Supreme Court judgements as reference after which court of Harish Goyal summoned Ramdev as accused for April 29. He will have to seek bail on the same day, Batras counsel OP Chugh said.
Notably, Ramdev had already been booked under Section 295 A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings) in Hyderabad for the same comment made in Rohtak. Earlier, the Congress leader had accused the police for not booking Ramdev as he was appointed as the brand ambassador of Haryana by the BJP government.
Congress president Sonia Gandhis son-in-law Robert Vadra on Friday slammed private banks for announcing fresh charges for cash withdrawals and deposits, saying they were unfair.
Banks are using the governments move towards a cashless economy post-demonetisation, to levy these charges to fatten their bottom lines, he posted on Facebook.
Indias leading private banks said on Wednesday they will charge a minimum of Rs 150 for cash deposits and withdrawals at bank branches after four free transactions in a month, revising charges that were kept in abeyance briefly after the government demonetisation on November 8.
HDFC, ICICI and Axis will calculate the fee aimed at reducing cash transactions at banks at the rate of Rs 5 for every Rs 1,000 transacted or Rs 150, whichever is higher.
Vadra said the finance ministry and the Reserve Bank of India should step in to offer relief to the common man and reverse the extra charges.
Who is the sufferer? Of course, the common man. Small-savings & salaried people are easy targets (sic), the businessman said.
Vadra is not a member of any party but he frequently expresses opinions on political matters and current issues. He has often campaigned for his mother-in-law and brother in law Rahul Gandhi during their election campaigns.
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has written a letter to Union minister of defence Manohar Parrikar seeking revival of the Chamar regiment in the Indian Army. This was, as NCSC said, after three veterans from Haryana who were part of the regiment showed up before the commission and requested for its revival.
They are Chunni Lal from Mahendragarh, Jogi Ram from Bhiwani and Dharma Singh from Sonepat all 95-year-old and served in the Chamar Regiment from 1943 to 1946.
The Chamar Regiment was officially constituted in 1943 by the Indian British government with Jabalpur as its headquarters. It was, however, disbanded in 1946 due to unforeseen circumstances.
The Commission, in its letter to the ministry of defence, had asked for reasons why the Chamar regiment should not be reinstated when regiments formed on the basis of caste, religion continued to exist.
It is strange that all the other regiments, such as Sikh Regiment, Jat Regiment, Dogra Regiment etc, formed on the basis of caste/religion continue to exist while Chamar Regiment was disbanded, the letter stated.
The Commission further said that they were informed there was no reservation for the scheduled caste in the Army, due to which Dalit boys were not getting commissioned. If Chamar Regiment is restored, Dalit boys will also be able to serve the country.
Commission sought a reply from the ministry of defence within 15 days, asking them to examine all the facts as the matter related to the deprived members of the society.
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Edappadi K. Palanisamy, who took oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister last month, will chair his maiden cabinet meeting at the State Secretariat in Chennai on Friday.
Palanisamy had won the vote of confidence by a steep 122-11 margin after eviction of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) members and walkout by its allies from a chaotic assembly session following a political stalemate in the state.
Palanisamy is the third All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) leader, who took charge as the Chief Minister in the last nine months.
Late AIADMK supremo and Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa had powered the party to a rare successive term in office in the state in the May, 2016 Assembly Polls. After her demise, Tamil Nadus politics faced a major struggle of power with her aide, V.K. Sasikala and former chief minister O. Panneerselvam vying for the chief ministerial chair.
Sasikalas loyalist Palanisamy eventually ascended to the throne after she was sentenced to serve the rest of her jail term in a 19-year-old disproportionate assets case.
Kansas resident Ian Grillot, who was shot and wounded when he tried to intervene in an attack on two Indian engineers last month, has been invited to visit India by the government.
The invitation was conveyed to Grillot by Anupam Ray, Indias consul general in Houston, during a meeting at the University of Kansas Hospital on Thursday. At the meeting, Ray read out a tweet from external affairs minister Swaraj.
India salutes the heroism of Ian Grillot ! Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) February 27, 2017
Ray, who was accompanied by consul RD Joshi and vice consul Harpal Singh, told 24-year-old Grillot his bravery and kindness speaks louder for and is more representative of America than the violence on the night that Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla was shot and killed in Olathe city of Kansas state.
The diplomats also told Grillot and his family how grateful they were for his act of heroism the night of the shootings at Austins Bar & Grill on February 22, according to a statement from the University of Kansas Health System.
Grillot and his family were invited to India as soon as Grillot is able to travel, Ray said. Grillot replied he looked forward to meeting Swaraj.
Ray said, on behalf of India, they would celebrate Grillot and forever remember his actions.
Grillot was discharged from the hospital late on Tuesday. On Wednesday, he went to church and then stopped by Austins Bar & Grill for closure.
He and his family came to the hospital on Thursday to meet the Indian diplomats.
Kuchibhotla was killed and his colleague, Alok Madasani, was injured when US Navy veteran Adam Purinton opened fire at them at the bar after shouting get out of my country. Grillot was hit in the chest by a bullet when he tried to tackle Purinton, who was later arrested in adjoining Missouri state.
In his first interview after the shooting with Hindustan Times, Grillot had said he plans to visit India, a country that has long interested him.
Its the one place I always found very interesting growing up as a kid the heritage and the culture. Ive always wanted to take a journey there. I think Ive found myself a good reason to go there now. So Id definitely have to be making a trip there sometime in the near future, he said.
Read our continuing coverage of the Kansas Shooting.
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Punjab University (PU) bristled with tension on Friday as ABVP members assembled at the campus to foil a seminar on fascism scheduled to be addressed by activist Seema Azad.
The district administration deployed police personnel at the three gates of the varsity apprehending trouble with the right-wing ABVP warning the organisers, the Students for Society (SFS), against inviting Azad to the seminar.
PU has denied permission to the SFS for holding the seminar titled Rising head of Fascism but the society leaders said they will go ahead despite the risk.
The developments at PU came days after ABVP members allegedly attacked activists of left-leaning students groups at Ramjas College over inviting JNU student Umar Khalid to a seminar, re-igniting a debate on free speech and nationalism.
Sources said the ABVP members who have assembled at the PU campus are not associated with the university.
On Thursday, ABVP leaders had warned of using swords or lathis if SFS invited Seema Azad to the campus.
ABVP and SFS members had clashed in the university campus on February 27 over the violence at Ramjas College.
PUs Dean of students welfare Emanuel Nahar had said that the institution was not a political platform, where students can hold any such programmes or seminars.
What if the speakers say something anti-national? We will be in a difficult situation, the dean had said.
The Hyderabad police on Friday arrested two persons, including a newly-recruited constable, for allegedly molesting a 20-year old woman inside a cab which she took to go to Guntur on National Highway 65.
According to Rachakonda police commissioner Mahesh Bhagawat, the woman, who works as a hair stylist at Madhapur, was waiting for a bus at L B Nagar crossing in the city early on Thursday to go to her native place Guntur.
Immanuel, who was recruited as a constable recently and hails from Neredmet, and his friend Venu, a jobless youth from Nagole, approached her in a cab. Venu, who was driving, said he was looking for passengers to Guntur and promised to drop her safely for a low rate.
Since Immanuel was sitting in the passengers seat in civilian clothes, the woman, who travels regularly in cabs, thought he was another traveller, and unsuspectingly got into the back seat alone.
After about 45 km on the national highway, after having crossed Choutuppal town in Nalgonda district, one of them got into the back seat and started molesting her. She shouted loudly but there was none to listen to her as the windows were closed and there was hardly any traffic on the highway.
However, within minutes, the cab reached the toll gate at Panthangi village, where the woman banged the door from inside raising an alarm. Immediately, people in the area approached the cab and tried to apprehend the accused, but they pushed her out of the car, took a U-turn and fled towards Hyderabad.
With the help of locals, the woman alerted the Choutuppal police and gave the registration number of the cab. And they, in turn, brought to the notice of the Rachakonda police. A special operations team swung into action and arrested Venu and Immanuel from two different places in the city, Bhagawat said.
As the woman had to go to Guntur for important work, police sent an escort with her to Guntur.
In an advice to women, Bhagawat said almost all cabs in the city are registered with the police and have stickers provided by the police. The passengers, especially women, should take a picture of this sticker and forward the same to their relatives, in case of emergency.
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A man was hacked to death and his body cut to pieces for allegedly stealing toddy in Bihars Vaishali district, 15km from Patna.
Police said Madai Majhi, 45, had been stealthily drinking toddy from palm trees in his neighbourhood for the last many days. Ranjit Paswan, whose campus housed the toddy trees, caught hold of Majhi, a Mahadalit, and reportedly hacked him to death.
Majhis mutilated body, with head and limbs severed, was found lying in a pool of blood by women grazers at Balwakauri village.
Police said Paswan was apparently annoyed over theft of toddy, which had been fetching him good money ever since the ban on its sale and consumption was lifted in dry Bihar last July.
It seems as if Paswan lay in wait for the thief at his grove of palm trees. An unsuspecting Majhi climbed one of the trees and removed the pot in which toddy was being collected. While he was taking away the toddy pot, Paswan could have caught hold of Majhi and killed him with a sickle, the police said.
Police said Paswan was absconding and raids were being carried out to apprehend him.
After sunset there is hectic activity in Mohabbatpur village in Malda district near the Indo-Bangladesh border, around 330 kms from Kolkata. Neatly wrapped brick-sized packets are lobbed from the Bangladesh side across the border fence. A young man waiting in the shadows catches those.
After a quick phone call, the youth jumps on his motorbike and carries the packet for about a kilometre before handing it to another person, who in turn, carries it forward like a relay race.
The notes found in Malda had a number of security features compromised (most security features had been copied). They were also printed on Bangladesh stamp paper. It is difficult for the common man to spot the notes as fake,
Within 30 minutes the packet reaches Farakka railway station. It can reach the Kaliachak bus stand on National Highway 34 in even less time. Within 24 hours the packet reaches various parts of the country including Delhi. It contains counterfeit high value Indian currency.
Within 100 days of demonetisation, Bengals Malda district, known for its mangoes, has become the prime entry point of fake currency of new notes into India. The National Investigation Agency and the Border Security Force have indicated that printing bases for fake notes have been established in Bangladesh. Until now, most fake notes used to come from Pakistan.
BSF officers point out that unlike the ones seized from other parts of the country, the ones found in Malda were not mere colour photocopies, but counterfeits printed in proper presses.
According to sources, as many as 10 out of 17 security features of a Rs 2000 note have been copied in the FICN, including the design, colour pattern, number pattern, see through water mark, portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, Swachh Bharat logo and slogan and motif of Mangalayan.
Out of the six seizures in Malda till February 28, the biggest one was on February 15 when BSF seized a consignment of 100 notes of Rs 2,000.
Security agencies have arrested a total of five men in the drive against fake currency in Malda.
Why Malda?
The notes found in Malda had a number of security features compromised (most security features had been copied). They were also printed on Bangladesh stamp paper. It is difficult for the common man to spot the notes as fake, said P S R Anjaneyulu, BSF inspector general of police (South Bengal).
We are co-ordinating with state police and NIA to fight against the menace of fake notes in Malda. We are also getting full co-operation from the Bangladesh government, he added.
RBI estimates about 80% of the total counterfeit notes seized in the country enter through three Indo-Bangladesh border districts of Malda, Murshidabad and Nadia. Malda accounts for 80% of that amount .
Good rail and road connectivity with the rest of the country, proximity to the Bangladesh border, rising fundamentalism --- all make a heady mix to put this district of Bengal as the FICN (fake Indian currency notes) capital of the country.
On the other side of the border is Chapai-Nawabgunj, a district of Bangladesh which is equally notorious as FICN hub. NIA and BSF officers say the Bangladeshi district was earlier a launch pad to push fake currency from Pakistan into India.
Malda, a gateway of fake currencies 80% of fake notes is pumped into India through Indo-Bangladesh border from three districts of Malda, Murshidabad and Nadia in Bengal. Malda accounts for 80% of the fake currency which enters through West Bengal. of fake notes is pumped into India through Indo-Bangladesh border from three districts of Malda, Murshidabad and Nadia in Bengal. Malda accounts for 80% of the fake currency which enters through West Bengal.
Now since we have found counterfeit Indian currency printed on Bangladesh stamp paper, we have information that fake currency printing units have mushroomed in Chapai-Nawabgunj, said a senior BSF officer.
Malda has direct rail links with Delhi, southern states and Bihar and UP. It takes about 30 minutes to get into rail or take a road transport and head for various parts of the country. Crossing the Ganga it is also an easy way to reach Jharkhand quickly.
The Reserve Bank of India estimates that about 80% of the total counterfeit notes seized in the country enter through three Indo-Bangladesh border districts of Malda, Murshidabad and Nadia. Malda accounts for 80% of that amount that are pushed from these three districts.
Isha Khan Choudhury is now a Congress MLA from Sujapur, one of the places that act as a conduit for fake currency in Malda.
A sizeable section of people (from Malda) migrate to Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Haryana and Gujarat for work. But family members prefer a youth to stay in the village and earn some quick money by working as a courier.
This is the situation for years. The kingpins are seldom arrested, but the couriers, who are mostly poor youths, are put behind bars. There is need of political will of the ruling party which controls the police. Opium farming, gun running and fake notes are controlled by a few crime kingpins, Choudhury told HT.
With 51.27% of Muslim population, Malda is one of the three Muslim majority districts of Bengal. Most of the people work outside the state.
A sizeable section of people migrate to Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Haryana and Gujarat for work. But family members prefer a youth to stay in the village and earn some quick money by working as a courier. There are villages under Baishnabnagar and Kaliachak police stations where the majority of the population, mainly youths, act as couriers of FICN. The ruling partys policy of appeasing minorities has led to the growth of the menace here. said Swadhin Sarkar BJP MLA who won from Baishnabnagar seat in 2016.
On January 3, 2016, a mob of protesters torched BSF and government vehicles and vandalized the police station in Kaliachak. The police later found out that fake currency racketeers had an active part in the vandalism and they set the record room of the police station on fire.
Modus operandi
A well-oiled machinery props up the couriers who deliver the FICN. A group of youths receive the money thrown from the other side of the border. Another group of youths divide the money in small consignments and courier it.
One courier covers around a km before he passes it on to another. Each one makes around Rs 1000 to Rs 1500 for one trip, which is good money considering they are poor people. Bigger consignments are divided into smaller parts of Rs 2 to 3 lakh, so that if one gets caught others are delivered and profit is made, said an NIA officer.
FICN dealers operate on both sides of the border. The rate for buying fake currency before demonetisation was Rs 40,000 for a wad of Rs 1 lakh face value.
But the rates have risen since the new batch of fake currency has started to hit the market. Now Rs 1 lakh of FICN is sold for Rs 60,000 to 70,000.
The almost real fake notes of Rs 2000
Printing fake Rs 2000 note is driven by economics. It fetches more profit, said a senior BSF officer posted in Malda.
There is also a psychological angle. The Rs 2000 is a new concept and people are less skeptical about fakes. Many think that it is difficult to copy Rs 2000 notes.
According to BSF Bangladesh Government stamp paper is now being used to print fake notes of Rs 2,000. The paper is of good quality for printing fakes, since it allows colours, design and some security features to fit properly. The paper also lasts long in circulation.
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A proposed ecologically sensitive no mining zone in the Western Ghats, a green hotspot, would shrink to around 56,825 square kilometers, down from around 77,000 sq kms recommended by a high level panel.
A draft notification by the environment ministry this week allows the ongoing mining for the next five years and development of small residential complexes within the proposed ecological area, which will be 20% less than what the expert panel had recommended.
All new and expansion projects of building and construction with built up area of 20,000 square metres and above and all new and expansion townships and area development projects with an area of 50 hectares and above or with built up area of 1,50,000 square metres and above shall be prohibited and there shall be no restriction on repair or extension or renovation of existing residential houses in the eco-sensitive area, the draft rule says.
The high level panel headed by former planning commission member K Kasturirangan had recommended a complete ban on mining and zero tolerance towards construction activity in the Western Ghats, considered as one of the worlds best ecological hotspots.
The rule also provides life-line to the existing highly polluting industries categorised as red by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and existing thermal power plants, saying their expansion will not be allowed. However, new red category industries and thermal power plants will not be allowed in the zone spread across six states on the western coastline of India, the rule says.
The dilution has been done to appease the state governments which had opposed the recommendations of the Kasturirangan panel in 2013.
The proposed rule also accepts the demand of the state governments to allow hydro-power projects in the ecologically sensitive area with a condition of maintaining 30% water flow during lean (summer) season.
Karnataka and Maharashtra had proposed hundreds of small hydro power projects in the Western Ghats which environment experts say could have adverse impact on local marine population. The rule asks the states to conduct a comprehensive study to establish a baseline for each hydro power project.
The eco sensitive zone in the Western Ghats is important to ensure living space for highly unexplored animal and plant species. Around 80 new species of frogs, 30 of fresh water marine and several plants have been discovered there in the last decade. Many more are to be discovered in the vast space of 1,60,000 sq kms, said Madhav Gadgil, who headed the first panel on the Western Ghats constituted by the UPA government.
The rule will be notified once people submit their response within next 90 days.
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It remains uncertain whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to Palestine when he goes to Israel, possibly in June.
If Modi doesnt travel to Palestine it will be a break from the past; senior leaders who have so far travelled to the region have had both Israel and Palestine in their itinerary.
The last two high-profile visits to the region under Modis premiership President Pranab Mukherjee in October 2015 and external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in January 2016 had visited the two countries.
Mukherjee even became the first Indian president to visit Israel on his trip.
According to sources, the visit to Israel as a stand-alone one will be more befitting to mark the 25th year of the two countries diplomatic ties.
Read | PM Modi has done more foreign trips in 2 years than Vajpayee did in 5
Meanwhile, there is also a possibility of India hosting Palestine president Mahmoud Abbas before Modi visits Israel. But a source said the visit has not been locked yet.
Indian officials have been insisting that there is no change in the countrys position on the Palestine question; it was the Modi government which hosted the first ever India-Palestine joint commission, and New Delhi believes in two-state solution to the conflict.
Though India remains wary of how the Arab world will see its ties with Israel, the Modi government has been more open about its ties with the Jewish state.
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The ministry of electronics and information technology is in the final stages of crafting a women-special startup programme in the information technology space.
To be launched in ten cities by April 1, the initiative would aim at providing dedicated incubators, mentors and venture funds for aspiring women entrepreneurs.
In talks with top industry bodies like Nasscom and Internet & Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), the ministry would partner with top information technology companies Facebook, Google, Sysco, Intel and others, the MoEIT secretary Aruna Sundarajan has said.
The ministry contends that the aspiring women entrepreneurs planning startup ventures face a lot of barriers in terms of support and resources.
When it comes to facilitation for women entrepreneurs, incubators are hardly industry friendly, and therefore ministry is trying to reorient them so that they will able to reach out to women with women orientation in their working, Sundarajan said on the sidelines of Facebooks She Means Business event in New Delhi on Wednesday .
We are starting a separate programme to open up more space for the women in technology, young talented people where they will find the support groups, access the resources. We will roll it out before April 1, she said.
We plan to partner with Facebook, Google, Sysco, Intel and others to specifically see how women and their livelihood programmes can be bettered through. Each one of these companies has their platforms and we will see how we can be bundled as part of this, Sundarajan said.
The proposed plan, which the IT secretary said, will be launched in 10 cities including all metros and non-metros such as Pune, Jaipur and others, would have dedicated start-up incubator for women entrepreneurs.
As current start up incubators are very women unfriendly, and they dont feel comfortable here. Most of the incubators are in IITs or in engineering colleges, but we want to design special spaces for women, she said.
The programs also proposes to have dedicated venture fund for women where they will get people on the board who are more receptive and understand the kind of unique value the women bring to the table, Sundarajan said.
Justifying why he got removed a chapter on Akbar replacing it with the heroics of Maharana Pratap, Rajasthan education minister Vasudev Devnani Friday reiterated that it was the Rajput ruler of Mewar who had emerged victorious in the battle of Haldighati against the Mughal emperor.
There could be no doubt that Maharana Pratap won the battle of Haldighati. If Akbar had won the battle, then why would he attack Mewar six times even after that? Does a winner need to do that?, asked Devnani.
He was speaking at the launch of the latest edition of Pathay Kan, a fortnightly magazine with known leanings towards RSS ideology. The cover story of the March issue of the magazine is on the battle of Haldighati fought in 1576 where the existing narrative on the outcome has been altered. The story details Maharana Pratap defeated Mughal emperor Akbar the very first time their forces clashed.
A BJP MLA, Mohanlal Gupta, had last month proposed at Rajasthan Universitys syndicate to rewrite the history of the battle of Haldighati in Maharana Prataps favour. State health minister Kali Charan Saraf was first to support the move saying there was an immediate need to change the distorted version of history that was being taught to the students. Later,Devnani too had come out in Guptas support.
Students need to learn about nationalism and the heroics of historical figures such as Maharana Pratap. Akbar is considered as great but we also speak of Maharana Pratap as a great man. It is obvious that only one of them could be great. That is why after becoming education minister, I removed the chapter on Akbars greatness and included the one on the heroics of Maharana Pratap, Devnani said after launching the magazines latest edition.
The minister also reiterated that a chapter on Emergency would soon be added in the textbook for class 10 students. In the new class 10 book, I have included a chapter on the Emergency. It is to make children understand how freedom was curtailed during the period and people fought bravely for their freedom, said Devnani.
In an apparent dig at Congress, Devnani said, When I was a child, I read in text books that the fight for independence started in 1885. There was no mention of the war of 1857. This is because a political party was formed in the year (1885) by a British. said Devnani, alluding to the Congress.
The minister said that an ideological battle was currently on between the nationalist and the anti-national forces. This battle will only end when nationalists ensure complete victory, said Devnani.
He also spoke in the favour of changing the name of Akbar museum and fort in Ajmer to Ajmer fort.
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Soon, patients dying or suffering at private hospitals and nursing homes in Bengal because of negligence or bad management will have to be financially compensated. And, health establishments will face penal action, ranging from criminal proceedings to cancellation of licence, if found guilty of negligence and extortion.
Taking a major step towards bringing private hospitals, nursing homes, maternity homes et al under strict government surveillance, the Bengal government placed the West Bengal Clinical Establishments (Registration, Regulation and Transparency) Bill, 2017 at the Assembly on Friday and got it passed after a brief debate. This bill will become the national model some day. I had no intention to interfere in the business of private hospitals. But enough is enough. I couldnt have taken this step without public support, chief minister Mamata Banerjee, who is also in charge of the health department, said in her long reply to the debate.
Surprising the House, Banerjee said similar regulations would soon be introduced to stop private schools, colleges and universities from charging excessive fee and donation from students. Educating our children and youth should be their only priority but I keep getting complaints, she said, adding that she would meet heads of educational institutions after state and central board examinations are over.
The 25-page bill has introduced severe penalty - ranging from monetary compensation to proceedings under the Indian Penal Code and seizure of property - if patients suffer or die because of negligence or bad management or, forced to pay inflated bills. Doctors and staff at state-run hospitals face action when they are at fault. The same should apply to their counterparts in private hospitals. If these institutions ask doctors to violate medical ethics they should put in their papers and join government hospitals, said Banerjee.
It is logical that the clinical establishments would levy fees and charges for the services. But such charges should be reasonable with the objective of covering the cost of provision of services besides generating a decent surplus. The government is of the view that health care services is not a commercial proposition; it is a service or seva which should be delivered to service recipients with humility and human touch. Life is precious and there can be no monetary value attached to human health, says the bill.
The commission will be headed by an acting or former high court judge or acting or former chief secretary. Citizens will also have representatives among 12 other members. (Subhankar Chakraborty/HT Photo)
While meeting CEOs of Kolkatas top private hospitals two weeks ago, Banerjee had promised that she would introduce a new bill and set up a regulatory body. The move was welcomed by millions across the state. On Friday, she mentioned in the House specific cases of negligence and extortion by private institutions and named Apollo Hospital in Kolkata several times in her speech. When I was admitted at a nursing home, an MRI test showed my appendix though it had been removed years ago. I was shocked, she said, refusing to name the establishment.
The existing West Bengal Clinical Establishment (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010, which was introduced by the erstwhile Left Front government would be repealed. Your law stood neither here nor there. It was useless, Banerjee told CPI(M) legislators who claimed that the new bill was nothing but a rehashed version of the old one.
The most salient feature of the new bill is formation of the West Bengal Clinical Establishment Regulatory Commission which will not only work as the watchdog body but will also address complaints from patients and order action against private institutions. Significantly, the bill says that the commissions orders cannot be challenged in any civil court. This is being done to establish accountability and transparency, to stop hospitals from shifting patients to ICU, ICCU and ventilation rooms purely to inflate bills. They have stopped treating patients as humans. The line is now being drawn, said Banerjee.
The commission will be headed by an acting or former high court judge or acting or former chief secretary. Citizens will also have representatives among 12 other members. The commission has been given the power to slap fine of up to Rs 50 lakh if charges of negligence or malpractice are proved.
The bill has proposed compensation of at least Rs 10 lakh in case of deaths caused by negligence, Rs 5 lakh for major injury and Rs 3 lakh for not-so-severe injury.
No private establishment will be allowed to refuse treatment to victims of rape, acid attack accident and natural disaster, says the bill. Also, in cases like these, hospitals cannot ask for money during admission. The bill also states that treatment cannot be stopped if patients run out of money and in cases like these hospitals will have to bear the cost of life-saving drugs.
For diagnosed patients, hospitals will have to provide fixed monetary packages for treatment of specific disease or an operation and cannot charge more than what has been promised in the package. I know that treatment cant come free. But there has to some logic. Bills for pathological tests cannot run into lakhs. Hospitals will have to set up grievance cells to tackle complaints, said Banerjee.
Interestingly, Rupali Basu, CEO of Apollo Hospital, one of the states biggest private establishments that is facing probe following the death of a patient, resigned on Thursday. The victim, 32-year-old Sanjay Roy, died at SSKM hospital on February 23 shortly after he was shifted there from Apollo where his family was forced to keep property deeds and fixed deposit certificates as security since they had no more money. The family alleged that Roy died because of the delay in his release. Doctors at Apollo have informed me that their CEO has resigned. Alls well that ends well, said the chief minister, mentioning the death of Roy and alleging that another patient at Apollo was charged Rs 24,000 for a drug that retails for Rs 10,000.
The governments new bill also states that hospitals cannot stop dead bodies from being released under any circumstance. I vividly remember how the body of an actor was not given to the family. I had to intervene, said the chief minister.
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A woman lodged a police complaint against fast food chain McDonalds after allegedly finding a lizard in her food at an outlet in Kolkata, police said on Friday.
Priyanka Moitra, a resident of Kolkata, visited the outlet on Eastern Metropolitan bypass with her daughter and ordered French fries only to find the lizard in her snack, deep fried at that.
Moitra lodged a complaint on February 28 as she and her daughter allegedly found a dead lizard in their packet of French fries at the MacDonalds outlet in an E.M. bypass-based shopping mall here. She also gave a picture of the contaminated food item, an officer from Phoolbagan police station said.
The woman, who is pregnant, fell ill at the sight of the lizard and also became concerned about the health of her daughter who accompanied her, police added.
The American fast-food giant responded to the complaint, saying it would look into the matter.
(We are) taking (the) situation seriously; launched a thorough investigation immediately upon being aware of complaint, McDonalds said, according to ANI.
On the eve of 2011 Assembly polls - the most crucial election Bengal witnessed since 1977 when Marxists overthrew the Congress and settled down for 34 years - social networking sites became an integral part of campaign for both Trinamool Congress and the CPI(M).
Six years later, the same social media is turning out to be a bane for not only the arch enemies but even the administration headed by chief minister Mamata Banerjee. And, everybody is blaming trolls, religious propaganda groups, tech-savvy pranksters and individuals eager to vent anger.
Read: Social media the other battleground for political parties
Witnessing a sharp rise in communally sensitive and politically motivated posts on Facebook and Twitter during and after some violent incidents at Kaliachak (Malda) and Golabari (Howrah) and Bhangar (South 24 Parganas), the government has decided to take counter-measures. The state police already has a cyber security cell. It will be strengthened to focus more on social media, director general of police, Surajit Kar Purakayastha, told HT.
Our party is also aware of the mischief being played by CPI(M) and BJP workers who want to malign the government. This has to be countered, said a senior Trinamool leader. Incidentally, after Trinamool came to power, Ambikesh Mahapatra, a Jadavpur University professor, was the first to be arrested under cyber crime law for sharing a cartoon of Banerjee.
In May 2016 the Facebook users in India stood at 195.16 million, the highest in the world. (HT Photo)
Posts on Facebook - more popular in India than Twitter - are troubling politicians on both sides of the divide. Though Banerjee receives mostly compliments from fans posting on her timeline, there are pages managed by individuals or groups where she is attacked. CPI(M) leaders, including general secretary, Sitaram Yechury, are however not lucky enough to be spared by trolls even on their own Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Read: How AAP uses social media to dominate political discourse outside Parliament
Interestingly, trolling in Bengal started much before Singur and Nandigram changed the political status quo. Orkut became the first cyber platform for Marxist leaders as well as Banerjee with their supporters running numerous fan clubs. One of them opened an account masquerading as the then chief minister, furnishing information about the real Buddhadeb Bhattacharjees personal life and family. The CPI(M) had a tough time tracking him down. Left Front chairman Biman Bose, too, found his clone on Facebook in 2010. Posing as Bose, an over-enthusiastic supporter accepted hundreds of friend requests.
But the recent controversial posts on CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP, Ritabrata Banerjee, is forcing the party to draft social media guidelines for members. On February 23, Banerjee was censured at a meeting in Kolkata for writing a threat mail to the employer of a party supporter who raised questions on Facebook about the source of the MPs Apple watch and Monc Blanc pen. In his defence, Banerjee told the leadership that he was being stalked and showed Facebook posts as evidence.
Read: If you are on social media, you should be prepared for abuse: Amitabh Bachchan
Realising that face-offs on social media is affecting discipline in the cadre-based organisation, the CPI(M) has decided to frame rules and ban selfies taken purely for self-publicity.
If someone has specific complaint against a leader, no matter how highly-placed, he or she cannot vent it on social media. People have to come to the party which deals with such complaints, said Yechury.
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Trinamool Congress stated that Bengal BJP is highlighting non-issues to target its leaders after the latter drew a flak trying to corner Derek OBrien. After the arrest of its leader Juhi Choudhury, Bengal BJP is also unsuccessful in targeting Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Derek OBrien over morphed picture issue.
Tit-for-tat moves in Bengal politics, came thick and fast on March 1 after BJP womens wing leader Juhi Chowdhurys arrest on the night of February 28 with BJP leaders moving court against Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Derek O Brien. BJP targeted OBrien for alleged morphing a picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and showing it in a press conference before the Bengal assembly elections last year.
However, later court turned their appeal down and asked them to approach appropriate authority.
The issue was a closed chapter ten months ago but BJP is so desperate in Bengal that they are looking for non-issues. Not surprised that it (appeal in court) was summarily not even admitted. Simply thrown out, said Sukhendu Sekhar Roy Trinamool Congress chief whip Rajya Sabha.
The political waters of Bengal turned murky on Tuesday with prime accused in the child trafficking case, Chandana Chakravarty, alleging to the media that Juhi Chowdhury spoke to BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and Rajya Sabha MP Roopa Ganguly to lobby for the Bimala Sishu Griho, the welfare home in the eye of the storm.
We will approach the Calcutta High Court in due time. Our party leader had filed a case in Bankshal court against Trinamool Congress Rajya MP for morphing a picture of the Prime minister and union home minister Rajnath Singh. Earlier we lodged a complaint with Kolkata police but they have failed to act so far. We are compelled to move court. But the appeal was turned down, said Jay Prakash Majumder , vice president state BJP. who appealed to the court.
On March 1, Jay Prakash Majumder filed a petition with the chief metropolitan magistrate, Bankshal court against O Brien.
On April 23 last year, OBrien addressed a press conference in which he showed four photographs, including one that showed union home minister Rajnath Singh offering a laddoo to former CPI-M general secretary Prakash Karat.
It prompted Karat to lodge a police complaint in Delhi, whereas BJP lodged a complaint with Kolkata police.
The entire controversy comes against the bigger backdrop of worsening relations between Trinamool Congress and BJP. Mamata Banerjee has alleged that TMC MPs Sudip Bandyopadhyay and Tapas Paul was arrested by CBI purely as an act of political vendetta in connection with the Rose Valley chit fund scam.
In the next few days, complaints poured in from different areas in the state and police registered FIRs against BJP leaders and MPs including Babul Supriyo, Dilip Ghosh and Kailash Vijayvargiya.
In 2015, Cameron Perry came to India as a backpacking tourist. I met a child in Dharamsala. He was running a street-side store but spoke fluent English. I easily struck a conversation with him. His smile made me keep talking. I asked him what he wants to do when he grows up. He said: I want to be a nurse, shares Cameron, who having been a nurse himself was touched by the childs simplicity and honest urge to make progress from his current state of living.
That was when I decided to come back to India and do something for the kids here, adds the 25-year-old, whos back in the country. But this time around, three friends Scott Grills, Ben Butcher and Taylor Hogan have come along. The quartet will start a nation-wide journey on their motorbikes for a campaign called, Ride for Rights An Indian Odyssey. They will start from Delhi on March 4, and return after visiting places such as Mumbai, Goa, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Leh.
Its our effort to understand the lives of children in India, document their stories and the issues they face. We want to understand their lives better and bring about a change, says Scott, who started volunteering for such work at a very young age.
Taylor adds, We decided to embark on this journey to ensure that the kids can create and chase their dreams. We want to give hope to every child and empower them. To raise funds for the same, and give people an opportunity to donate for children, we have associated with the NGO CRY (Child Rights and You).
Besides documenting the lives and hardships of the children, they will also film their own journey. India is a culturally rich and diverse place. So we will capture our experiences during the ride through a documentary, says Ben, a freelance photographer and filmmaker. Documentaries have the capability to be uncontrollably violent. A lot of documentaries start from a negative aspect. We will focus on the emotional aspects and make our film a positive one... to give hope to the children we meet and mentor, adds Ben, 21.
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Kuttram 23
Director: Arivazhagan
Cast: Arun Vijay, Mahima Nambiar, Thambi Ramaiah, Vamsi Krishna, Aishwarya
Rating: 4/5
Arun Vijay plays Sherlock Holmes and Thambi Ramaiah his Dr Watson in director Arivazhagans gripping murder mystery, Kuttram 23 (Crime Number 23) that despite tackling a whole lot of issues, like uncontrollable male ego, blackmail and unethical medical practice, remains firmly grounded and believable.
Essaying a cop, Vetrimaaran, Vijay is asked to probe the strange death of Jessica, the wife of a leading television channel owner. She is found dead along with a church priest one night. In fact, the film begins on an eerie night outside a deserted church where we see Jessica getting off a fancy car and walking up to the priest for confession. No sooner had she confessed than the priest is murdered, and a panicky Jessica tries to flee.
Coincidentally, the first to walk into the scene of the crime is Thendral (a beautiful Mahima Nambiar), who becomes the obvious first reference of police investigation, with Vetrimaaran soon swooning over her.
But I must give it to the director, who steers his work from needless romantic distractions with just about one song, and enriches his work with taut editing (by Bhuvan Srinivasan) to get Kuttram 23 on a much higher plane than most other Tamil movies. With fantastic intercuts and minimal background score (what a relief), Kuttram 23 (referring to the 23 male chromosomes that help a woman conceive a child) may be seen as a powerful indictment of criminal methods used in the medical practice of artificial insemination.
The film flies higher with some memorable performances. Vijay is extraordinarily controlled when he could have gone overboard in a role that provided all the excuses for him to do so. Even in some of the most charged sequences, the actor maintains a certain dignified presence that is hard to come by in Tamil cinema. And even Ramaiah offers a toned down version of his usual self and what a welcome change this is. Though Nambiar has no meaty role, she engages us with her dilemma which swings between extreme fear (watch that scene where she shuts herself in her flat with the killers prowling outside) and anger at having been sucked into a crime she has no clue about. Or role to play.
Yes, there are a few minuses like Arivazhagans tendency to play to the gallery by turning his cop into a superman. Look at his bravado when he walks into every conflict point without his men. No top policeman will do this unless he has this irresistible urge to commit suicide. And Vetrimaraan does not even use his firearm. He relies on his bare fists!
In spite of these weaknesses, I would still go with four stars, because Kuttram 23 is brilliantly scripted and directed and of course ably acted out by especially Vijay.
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As many as 32 of the 72 dance bars that had applied for fresh licences have failed to comply with the conditions imposed by the police, who may now turn down their requests.
These bars have not complied with all the 26 (modified) guidelines imposed in the licence. Some have failed to follow conditions such as maintaining a five-foot distance between customers and performance area, while others have not installed CCTV cameras at the entrances, sources in the Mumbai police said.
In December 2015, the Supreme Court ordered that licences to dance bars must be cleared. Following this, the state government came out with 26 conditions to regulate the functioning of these bars. These included sharing a live feed of the dancing area with the local police station, a ban on serving alcohol in the dancing area and closing the bar at 11.30 pm.
The police issued an order, asking senior police inspectors to conduct an audit of the bars that had applied for licences under their respective jurisdictions and verify whether they had followed the conditions. Licences were to be allotted only if the local police issued a positive compliance report.
The auditing procedure met with controversy after it was found that four police officers from as many police stations had prepared false compliance reports. These men three inspectors and an assistant police inspector (API) were suspended by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Bar owners challenged the tough conditions, following which the Apex Court struck down conditions such as the ban on serving alcohol in dancing area and sharing live CCTV camera footage, while relaxing some others. In March, three dance bars were issued licenses after they fulfilled those conditions. The order prompted a flood of applications for licences. In the meantime, the state government came out with a special legislation Maharashtra Prohibition of Obscene Dance in Hotels, Restaurants and Bar Rooms and Protection of Dignity of Women (working therein) Act making the conditions tougher.
In November last year, the Supreme Court asked the state to consider granting licences to applicants that were at par with the three licenced dance bars.
Following this, the police received 72 applications by February. They are in the process of inspecting the applicants premises. The dance bars will have to comply with the modified guidelines. If they dont, they will not be considered while we are granting licences, said a senior official from the licensing branch of Mumbai police, who did not wish to be identified.
The counsel for the dance bar owners association in the Supreme Court, advocate Satyajit Shah, told HT that the petition challenging the 2005 ban on dance bars, which was scheduled to be heard on Thursday, will be heard on April 20.
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Despite demonetisation, Mumbai police get 64 applications for new dance bar licences
Issue licences to dance bars as per old rules: SC to Maharashtra govt
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Underworld don Arun Gawlis daughter Geeta, who won the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections from Byculla, has now decided to back the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the civic body. She will head to Konkan Bhavan on Friday to register her support for the party.
Geetas announcement came after she held a late-night meeting with chief minister Devendra Fadnavis at his residence, Varsha, in south Mumbai. Sources said the BJP promised to make Geeta who was elected from ward 212 a member of the prestigious standing committee.
This move comes as the setback to the Shiv Sena, which was aggressively wooing Geeta. With 84 corporators in its ranks, the party has garnered the support of four independents.
In her previous two terms, Geeta had supported the Shiv Sena in the civic body. In return, she was made the chairman of the health committee and also accommodated in the standing committee.
On Thursday, Geeta went to Sena Bhavan to meet party chief Uddhav Thackeray. As he was not present, she spoke to Shiv Sena leaders Eknath Shinde and Anil Desai, who promised to make her a membership of various committees, and give her additional funds for her ward. However, Geeta allegedly insisted on becoming a member of the standing committee. She left without making a commitment to the party.
Her decision comes as boost to the BJP in its numbers game against the Shiv Sena.
Geetas party, the Akhil Bharatiya Sena (ABS), contested 30 seats, but was able win just one. Geetas aunt Vandana, who has been a corporator for the past 10 years, was also defeated.
Arun Gawli, who founded the ABS in 1997, worked hard for the residents of his ward. This earned him goodwill among Byculla residents, who elected him to the Maharashtra assembly in 2004. However, his luck ran out when he was arrested in 2008 for the murder of Shiv Sena corporator Kamlakar Jamsandekar. He is currently serving a life term in Nagpur Jail.
Read
BMC polls: Arun Gawlis party Akhil Bharatiya Sena faces turf challenge
Geeta Gawlis party withdraws support to Sena in BMC
Arun Gawlis daughter to fight polls, keep his party alive
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Eminent progressive thinker and Ambedkarite Dr Krishna Kirwale, 62, was stabbed to death in his house near Shivaji Vidyapeeth in Kolhapur on Friday. The police have arrested a suspect in this connection. They suspect the murder might be the fall-out of a financial dispute.
Senior police arrested Pritam Patil hours after the murder. The Kolhapur police said Patil is a resident of the city, but refused to divulge any details.
Sources in the Kolhapur police said the suspect had worked as a carpenter at Kirwales house a few days ago. The suspect reportedly fought with him over payment, the police said.
The police are recording statements of his family members and a post-mortem will be conducted on Kirwales body.
Additional police force has been deployed in a few parts of Kolhapur as Kirwale was respected among the followers of Dr BR Ambedkar. Born in May 1954 in the Beed district of Marathwada, Kirwale completed his PhD from Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in 1987.
He retired as head of department of Marathi at Shivaji Vidhyapeeth a few months ago.
Known for his progressive thoughts, he was chief of the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Centre for Research and Development. Kirwale authored a special dictionary on words used by Dr Ambedkar in his writings and speeches. Popular among students, Kirwale was known for is study on progressive movements and Dalit literature in Maharashtra. He has written several books and wrote often for newspapers.
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A day after images of Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exams Marathi paper were leaked on social media minutes before it was handed out to examinees, the Maharashtra state board on Friday submitted a complaint with the Vashi police station but hasnt taken any step to beef up security for the upcoming exams. It has ruled out a re-exam saying that the students were inside the exam hall when the images were released.
Officials from the Mumbai divisional board, which includes Thane, Palghar and Raigad, approached the police on Friday evening, to complain against the question paper being leaked on social networking app WhatsApp. The images received by the board show that students received the pictures at 10.46 am, minutes before the exam paper has handed out to them at 10:50 am. We have filed a complaint with the police and submitted all the images that we received, said Dattatray Jagtap, divisional chairperson of the board.
The police said they have received an application from the board but no FIR has been registered till now. The board officials have submitted a complaint. So we will do an inquiry and then register a case accordingly, said Sanjay Chavan, sub-inspector, Vashi police station.
Although the board suspects that the images were taken at an exam centre, it is unclear if they were taken in Mumbai or outside. We have asked the cops to find out where the paper came from, it might not have necessarily been from Mumbai, said Siddheshwar Chandekar, divisional secretary, Maharashtra state board .
The board believes the paper didnt reach many students, as they were inside the exam hall by 10. 30 am. This means that chances of students having received the leaked paper are slim, said Chandekar.
Even after Thursdays incident, the board has not given any instructions to improve the security at exam centres. As of now, students and teachers have orally been told to not carry their phones to the exam hall, but they are not frisked. We ask teachers to frisk students only if they suspect that some thing is amiss, said Chandekar. Adding that it is also not possible to install CCTVs at all exam centres, he said, Students are finding newer hi-tech ways to cheat, it is difficult to compete with them.
New pattern could be reason for leak
Students and teachers in Mumbai are surprised that the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) Marathi paper was leaked on WhatsApp on Thursday, as it is easy to pass due to its new activity-based format. But they agree that the format could just have been the reason behind the leak.
This was the first time that the activity-based format was introduced for Marathi. The new pattern doesnt require students to memorise answers, instead they are tested on their application of the language. Even when the English paper was turned to activity-based format last year, students had complained that it was tough.
Teachers admitted there is a possibility that since the paper contained lots of objective questions, it might have been easy for students to copy, said teachers. The only reason this paper might have leaked is because the pattern was new and students were apprehensive about it, said Uday Nare, a teacher with Hansraj Morarji Public School and Junior College, Andheri.
Till last year, papers like book-keeping and accountancy were leaked, which are considered tough, but Marathi doesnt usually fall in the same category. It records above 90% pass rate every year, and those opting for it are mostly students who have learned the language in schools.
Teachers said 20 out of 100 marks are for oral tests conducted by schools or colleges. Since the oral exams are conducted internally, students score at least 15 marks in it. So its not tough for them to meet the minimum passing criteria, said Shantilal D Shah, principal, MVM Junior College, Andheri.
READ MORE
In Maharashtra: HSC Marathi paper out on social media
Second day of HSC in Mumbai: Reaching Kandivli centre real test for students
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Salesman Sandeep Sahu, 24, who was arrested by a special task force (STF) team from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on Thursday for allegedly making extortion calls to Bollywood director Mahesh Bhatt, confessed that he had made similar calls to actors Shahrukh Khan and Akshay Kumar.
Sahu worked at an investment company for a few years. He then opened two shoe shops at Aminabad at Lucknow after borrowing funds from private investors. However, his businesses failed and he became bankrupt.
During interrogation, Sahu said he would visit Mumbai often. As he had heard of film personalities who would lend money to fans in need, he tried to seek financial aid from them. When no one took him seriously, he thought of extorting actors by posing gangster Bablu Srivastav, said a police officer who interrogated Sahu.
Sahu found the mobile numbers of Bollywood actors and directors on the internet. He posed as Srivastav and started making threatening calls to them.
He called Bhatt several times and threatened to kill the producers family if he did not pay Rs50 lakh. He reiterated this through text messages and WhatsApp messages. Sahu gave Bhatt his Lucknow-based bank account number for the funds transfer.
The police traced Sahus address using his bank account number. Bhatt registered a police complaint with the Juhu police on Wednesday, following which the anti-extortion cell (AEC) of the Mumbai crime branch took over the probe. It shared the information about Sahu with the STF.
The STF caught Sahu from Gomati Nagar in Lucknow. A team from Mumbai left for Lucknow to bring Sahu to the city.
The Juhu police registered a case under section 387 (putting person in fear of death or of grievous hurt in order to commit extortion) of the Indian Penal Code. Bhatt took to Twitter to congratulate the Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh police for nabbing the extortionist.
A bolt from the blue in the form of an extortion call & threat to my family was nipped in the bud by the MH & UP police in tandem.Gratitude! Mahesh Bhatt (@MaheshNBhatt) March 2, 2017
This is not the first time that Bhatt has been threatened. In November 2015, the Mumbai police arrested 13 people, allegedly from the Ravi Pujari gang, for hatching a plan to harm Bhatt. They recovered arms from the accused. A few of them were part of a gang that fired outside producer Karim Moranis house. Bhatts security was stepped up after the arrests.
In June 2006, an unidentified man opened fire at Bhatts office in Juhu. Bhatt was not in the building at the time. Ravi Pujari later called the office, claiming that his henchmen were behind the firing.
Bhatt has made several award-winning films such as Naam, Kassh, Daddy, Aashiqui, Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin and Zakhma. His daughters, Pooja and Alia, have acted in several movies.
Read
Mahesh Bhatt, Alia Bhatt, Soni Razdan receive death threat, one arrested in UP
The Byculla police have arrested a woman for throwing her four-and-a-half-year-old neighbour from the fifteen floor of a Mhada building on December 19. The police arrested her after her DNA samples matched with the samples found on the victims body. The girls mother is a police constable.
According to the police, Rekha Suthar threw the girl, Manvi Ingale, from the common gallerys window at New Hind Mill colony around 1pm.
The police had registered the case under section 302 (punishment for murder) of the Indian Penal Code.
Two of the girls neighbours were brought to the police station on the basis of suspicion. After a preliminary inquiry, however, both were let off. The police did, however, take DNA samples of the two and on Friday, the report confirmed the sample found on the girls body matched Suthars DNA.
The police said Suthar lost her six-year-old son six months ago was suffering from severe depression. On the day of the murder, her husband had sent her divorce papers.
An officer from Byculla police station, on the condition of anonymity, said, After Suthar refused to take the divorce papers from the postman, he went to Manvis residence. The victims father Ashok Ingale then took the papers to Suthars residence and scolded her for not receiving the documents despite being at home and that triggered the incident.
Ten minutes later, Suthar threw Manvi from the 15th floor and went back to her residence.
The father suspected she was responsible for his daughters death because he had seen Suthar entering her residence in a rush while he was looking for his daughter in the common gallery to feed her. But we didnt have any concrete evidence against her and she never confessed to the crime, said an officer.
The accused was arrested on Friday. She will be produced in Mazgaon court on Saturday.
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Dadars Shivaji Park has three new selfie spots specific spots reserved for you to take your phone out and click a selfie. Rewind three days to find out why.
What started out as one selfie point closing down because of lack of funds to maintain it, ended up giving Dadar three more in just three days, with three political parties trying to outdo each other.
On Wednesday, the MNS former corporator Sandeep Deshpande said he will shut the popular selfie point as he lacked funds. Soon after, the BJPs Mumbai unit chief Ashish Shelar tweeted that the BJP will take over and that the party has permissions from the BMC to re-instate it by Thursday evening.
The Shiv Senas newly-elected corporator Vishaka Raut also jumped into the competition, putting up a hoarding on Thursday saying the Sena will make a more cultural selfie spot.
By Friday, all three parties had applied for permissions from the G/North ward office to set up selfie points in Shivaji Park. Ramakant Biradar, the assistant commissioner of the G/North ward office (which includes Dadar) said the existing spot on the eastern side of the park will be divided between the MNS and BJP, and a spot on the western side will be alloted to the Sena.
I received applications from all three parties. There is enough space for everyone to set up selfie spots at Shivaji Park. I have already given permission to BJP and will issue permissions to MNS and Sena, Biradar said.
When on Wednesday, the BJP said it would take over the spot, the MNS retorted saying that its chief, Raj Thackeray, wanted to continue mainitaining the selfie point. A day later, in a letter to the ward office, Deshpande said the party kept changing themes at the spot regularly. The material for the current theme had been removed because we have ordered for new material, the letter read. It is our brainchild, which other parties are now trying to steal. They cannot come up with their own ideas, Deshpande said.
Ajit Kadam, the Sena shakha pramukh from Dadar said, We have opposed the BJPs demand, as our corporator has been elected in this area. We have applied because we do not want teenagers in the area to suffer.
By evening, the selfie wars had caught the attention of rival political parties and residents alike.
The NCPs Mumbai unit chief Sachin Ahir said instead of a selfie point, there should be a study point at Shivaji Park. A lot of people can use this spot for reading, so we are demanding a study point instead of a selfie point, Ahir said.
Residents of the area are not happy with the decision either. Vrishali Namjoshi, who goes to Shivaji Park for walks every day said, Walking there is already cumbersome as youngsters block the area. Now, with three selfie points, senior citizens and people who bring their children for an evening walk here will have to face a lot of hindrances.
Dr Sarita Kulkarni, a member of the Shivaji Park ALM, said Dadar would have improved drastically if political parties had pursued other issues.
They should make footpaths super-selfie points because they are in a pathetic condition. I think MNS also lost in the elections because they concentrated on selfie points that look good, but there are other pressing issues in the area.
Read: In Mumbai: BJP, Sena, MNS fight over a selfie spot
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After realising that offering hawking and taxi licences to owners and operators of horse-carriages or Victorias is unfeasible, the state is now mulling cash compensation for them.
Acting on the directives issued by the Bombay high court (HC), the state appointed a cabinet sub-committee headed by finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar to look into the rehabilitation of 191 Victoria owners and 30 operators. After three meetings with the stake holders, including carriage operators and NGOs, the committee is expected to take a final decision next week.
We were considering giving taxi or hawking licences to operators and owners, but the departments concerned have said it may not be possible. We may now finalise the option of cash compensation between Rs1 lakh and Rs3 lakh to the operators and owners. The stakeholders are positive about the new formula, said an official from the animal husbandry department.
The home department, on Wednesday, filed an affidavit apprising the HC about the plan underway for rehabilitation.
We will be happy if carriage operators and owners are rehabilitated by the government. The Delhi municipal corporation has effectively implemented the rehabilitation plan by phasing out the carriages. We can help the owners in rehabilitating the horses if they do not want to keep them, said Ambika Nijjar, legal advisor, People for Animals, one of the petitioners.
Read
HC directs state to list steps taken to rehabilitate Victoria owners
Victoria horse with multiple injuries rescued from south Mumbai
Victoria era ends: The rein is over for Mumbais horse-drawn carriages
It takes a whole semester for college students to study their curriculum, but the University of Mumbai (MU) wanted teachers to prepare it in just two weeks.
Anxious to put in place new syllabi for various courses before a new law the Maharashtra Public Universities Act 2016 came into effect, the university sought to wrap up the exercise in record time. After facing backlash from teachers and realising that the act would not have any bearing on the syllabus formation process, the university allowed teachers to prepare the curriculum at their own pace.
The process to gradually change the syllabi of all the undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) courses offered by MU was started last year. However, with no statutory body in place at the university thanks to a state government directive prohibiting elections for these bodies till August the varsity relied on temporary committees to come up with new syllabi in a short span. This irked teachers unions, which suggested that the syllabus formation needs to be more deliberative and consultative.
The curriculum usually passes through a number of statutory bodies namely syllabus sub-committees, boards of studies, faculties and academic council before it is adopted.
On February 14, the varsitys academic authorities unit sent a letter to the members of a special task force set up to frame the new syllabi, as well as various board of studies under faculty of Arts, asking them to promptly arrange meetings to finalise the new syllabi for second and third years of UG and the second year of PG courses by the end of February. The first year syllabi of UG and PG courses were changed last year.
After the new act is enforced, all the authorities and bodies may be dissolved and it may take four to six months to constitute the new authorities and bodies. This may lead to a delay in taking academic decisions, including approving the new syllabi, reads the letter explaining the haste.
However, as MU later realised, its apprehensions were unfounded. The new act had provided for the continuation of existing authorities and bodies in the transition period.
Many teachers who were tasked with changing the curriculum, were flummoxed by the varsitys directive. Professor SP Dubey, a member of one of the sub-committees under board of study for Hindi, said, MU has jurisdiction over a large area and one must know the needs of various parts before forming the syllabus. At our first meeting on February 17, we decided that it was impossible to meet the universitys deadline. The authorities still insisted that we complete the process before varsity academic councils meeting at the end of the month.
Bombay University and College Teachers Association (BUCTU) targeted MU vice-chancellor (V-C) Sanjay Deshmukh for hastily pushing the new syllabus through the boards of studies and other bodies. It added that it was unprecedented for the V-C to be directly involved in changing the syllabi. He is impinging on the powers and duties of the boards of studies, with which lie the primary responsibility and power to formulate changes to the syllabi, upon prescribed and necessary consultation and deliberation, read a letter by BUCTU to Deshmukh.
The university sought to downplay the teachers concerns. The directive was issued for the courses for which new syllabi have not been finalised yet. These are ad-hoc committees, so some adjustments have to be made. The teachers should continue working on the curriculum according to their own wisdom, said MA Khan, MU registrar.
Read
In Maharashtra: New universities law comes into effect
Mumbai University invites bids for digital assessment of answer sheets
Students name changed from Kite to Patang and Mumbai University software is to blame
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The 57-year-old Afghan national from whose abdomen seven plastic pouches of heroin were extracted by the doctors of a city hospital will be arrested when he gains consciousness, the police said.
Abdul Ali Noori was admitted in Metro Hospital on Tuesday night in an unconscious state by his son and a local guide. He had been complaining of severe abdominal pain and loss of consciousness. After conducting CT scan, the doctors found foreign bodies in his abdomen which led them to conduct a surgery on the patient.
A total of seven heroin capsules, packed in plastic pouches were extracted from his abdomen by the doctors till Thursday afternoon. It has been reported that the seized capsules of heroin are worth lakhs of rupees. However, neither the police nor the narcotics department could confirm the market value of the seized drugs.
After examining the samples, the narcotics department has confirmed that the patient had been carrying a contraband substance. We have registered a case under Narcotic Drug and Psychotropic Substances Act 18/20 against Noori. We have deployed personnel at the hospital and Noori will be arrested whenever he gains consciousness, Vinay Singh, station house officer, Sector 24 police station, said.
Read I Delhi: Afghan national with Rs 2-cr heroin in his stomach caught
The police have also arrested his son Abdul Wali Noori. He is 26-years-old. However, the police have not disclosed much on the criminal history and modus operandi of Noori.
Investigations are going on and till now we can confirm that Noori arrived in India on February 25 and had been staying at a hotel in Malviya Nagar, Delhi. Whether he had a history of criminal activity in Afghanistan or India will be declared after the investigation, Singh said.
Noori has remained in critical state for the past two days and doctors havent yet been able to trace whether he is carrying any more drugs in his body.
He is still on ventilator and doctors have not been able to conduct CT scan on him. Unless, he gains consciousness, we wont be able to tell whether he is carrying any more capsules in his body, Chhaya Malhotra, spokesperson, Metro Hospital, said.
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The city police has detained a 17-year-old boy who faces allegations of raping his tenants eight-year-old daughter at his house in a locality under Sahibabad police stations jurisdiction. The girls family had lodged an FIR of rape, criminal intimidation and under the provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act at Sahibabad police station on Thursday.
The family has alleged that the girl was subjected to sexual assault by their landlords son several times over the last month and he also threatened her not to tell anyone about it.
She used to remain home on Sundays and the boy assaulted her after calling her inside a room. She did not tell me first, but only gathered the courage to do so when some of her friends came home to visit. She had also told them to stay away from the boy as he is not a good person, said the girls mother.
Her father is out of town. He will be returning soon. Initially, she was afraid and did not tell her mother. But she often complained of pain in her abdomen. It was only when her friends had come that she told her mother about it. Such instances have happened with her three to four times. Now, they are trying to pressurise us into taking the case back, said the girls uncle.
The boy is a student of a reputed school in Sahibabad and turns 17 on Saturday. His family said the allegations are motivated as the family has been unable to pay rent.
They did not pay rent despite our repeated reminders as the girls father has lost his job and is not keeping well. My son has undergone three brain surgeries since 2014 on account of a blood clot in his brain due to a previous accident. Thereafter, he also suffered a paralytic attack. He has told us that he is not involved in any such act and has been preparing for his board examinations that are scheduled to start on March 8, said the boys father.
Police officials said the girl was sent for medical examination on Friday.
We are awaiting reports of the medical examination. That will help us decide the course of the investigation. The boy has also told us about his medical history and claims innocence. We have detained him and are questioning him about the incident, said Anup Singh, circle officer, Sahibabad.
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A team from the Ghaziabad crime branch reached Bareilly on Friday to investigate into the Audi car crash incident in which four people were killed on the intervening night of January 27 and 28 at the Hindon canal road in Indirapuram. The team recorded statements and also issued summons to persons concerned to record their statements at the earliest.
Investigators of the crime branch met Ishaq Ahmad, a truck driver who was allegedly impersonated by his former co-tenant Syed Imtiyaz Qadri in a court on the basis of his driving licence. Qadri had surrendered before a court in Ghaziabad on January 31 claiming to be Ishaq Ahmad and the driver of the Audi on the night of the incident.
We have asked him to come to Ghaziabad and record his statements. He said he will come with his lawyer, said Jaipal Singh, inspector (crime branch).
The team also visited Peewada where Ahmad and Qadri lived as co-tenants in the house of a woman named Shabnam. She informed the team that Qadri was in Bareilly on the day of the incident.
The team also went to the house of case pursuer Raj Kumar in Jogi Nawada, but his house was locked. The team later left summons requiring his presence in Ghaziabad for his statements.
Qadri was bailed out on January 31 after he provided two sureties, including that of Suraj Tiwari who is an accountant with a rural bank branch in Bareilly. Tiwari told investigators that he will require some time and will come to Ghaziabad soon for his statements to be recorded.
After allegations of lax investigation by the Indirapuram police, the probe in the case was handed over to the crime branch.
On the night of the incident, an Audi Q7 owned by neurosurgeon Dr Manish Rawat had crashed into an autorickshaw, killing four persons on the spot. Dr Rawat appeared before Ghaziabad police a week later saying that he was present in the car, but the vehicle was driven by Ishaq Ahmad.
Later, Ishaq Ahmad surrendered before court and obtained bail. When an HT team reached Bareilly on the address provided on the surrender application, the real Ishaq Ahmad turned out to be a truck driver who was in Gujarat on the night of the incident.
Read more: Ghaziabad Audi accident: Man who claimed to be driving the car missing, neighbours say was honest
He said his driving licence was used fraudulently by his former co-tenant Syed Imtiyaz Qadri. The latter later fled his Bareilly house and is absconding as yet.
HT has learnt from investigators, who reportedly scanned Qadris call records data and phone location, that he was in Bareilly till around 9pm on January 27. The accident had taken place around 12.15am on the Hindon canal road near Delhi-UP border on the same night in Ghaziabad, nearly 240 km from Bareilly.
Police officers privy to the probe said that Qadri was in Ghaziabad for the first time on January 30 and January 31 when he surrendered in court and reached Bareilly on the night of the January 31.
In yet another case of alleged online fraud, the Ghaziabad police have registered an FIR for cheating and criminal breach of trust against the four officials of a firm named ADS, which allegedly paid its members in lieu of clicking likes to online links they offered.
The police have filed an FIR against four officials Sandeep Garg, Shishu Pal, Lokesh and Pintu who ran the firms office at Raj Nagar District Centre. The FIR was lodged on March 2 following a complaint filed by Nawazish Hussain, a Delhi resident.
We have started an investigation into the case and are also on lookout of the four persons named in the FIR. Our officials visited their office at RDC, Raj Nagar but it was found locked. A search is on for the accused, Manish Mishra, circle officer (city), said.
The complainant alleged that the firm offered Rs 504 a day for clicking like to certain online links sent to registered members. But, they stopped sending the money after some time, he said.
The members were given log-in ids and passwords and were registered after paying Rs 55,200. We were told have other members registered within 15-20 days. I registered myself and later my family members, too, joined. Initially, we received money in our accounts but the amounts stopped coming in after the first week of February, Nawazish said.
Read I After Ablaze, Delhi-based firms under SIT scanner in Noida Ponzi scam
We went to the RDC office at Raj Nagar, but it was found locked. Finally, I had to file an FIR with Ghaziabad police. All the mobile phones of the firms officials are switched off and I am not being able to get in touch with them. Their mode of operation was the same as another firm being probed for a scam in Noida, he added.
When HT tried to contact the four persons in connection with the FIR filed, their mobile phones were found switched off. A copy of the FIR is available with HT.
In a similar modus operandi, Anubhav Mittals firm, Ablaze Info Solutions, had also come under scanner for allegedly running a Ponzi scam in Noida. Ablaze offered its members money for clicking Likes to certain online links and told them to add other members.
A special investigating team is probing the Noida scam while three top officials of Ablaze Anubhav Mittal, Sreedhar Prasad and Mukesh Kumar were arrested by the UP special task force on February 2.
The complainant in the Ghaziabad case said that the firm at RDC, Raj Nagar suspended operation after the Ablaze Info incident came to light.
The husband of the Noida-based woman who was allegedly cremated alive in Aligarh on February 27 claimed innocence saying that he has been framed by powerful people.
The 24-year-old newlywed woman, who belonged to Bulandshahr, was declared dead on the night of February 26 by doctors of Sharda Hospital, citing multiple organ failure. Her husband, from Aligarh, had eloped with her last year and the duo had been staying in Noida. He is currently on the run from the police.
I loved my wife a lot. We had married recently and this tragedy proved catastrophic for our lives. Not only is my wife gone, I am now being framed for her abduction and rape, which is baseless, he said in a telephonic conversation with HT.
On February 27, acting on a complaint, Aligarh police had seized the womans almost-charred body from the pyre and sent it for a post-mortem exam. The report said that she had died due to shock by burning and not due to multiple organ failure as stated by Sharda Hospitals doctors. However, in a press conference on Thursday, the hospitals doctors reiterated that the woman had died at the hospital, almost eight hours before her body was cremated.
Notwithstanding that, the husband has been on the run since the polices post-mortem report came out. A First Information Report (FIR) for rape and abduction has been lodged against him and 10 other men from his village in Aligarh.
In his defence, the man said he did his best to save his wife, but she died due to unfortunate circumstances.
On the night of February 22, my wife complained of high fever and vomiting. I took her to Sharda Hospital the next morning for treatment. I was there by her side for three days, but there was nothing I could do to save her, he said.
He also reiterated that his wife had died in the Greater Noida-based Sharda Hospital.
She was in the car with me for four hours (on the way to the cremation) and we never felt that she showed any movement or sign of life. She had died in the hospital, he said.
On being asked as to why he didnt wait for his wifes family to arrive and cremated the body within eight hours of death, he said, I am an orphan and I have never had any familial support since the beginning. From the day we eloped, we had decided that we are not going to seek support from any family member. Still, I informed her brother of her death since they have a right to know.
The man believes he has been framed by the powerful family of his wife since they were against their marriage.
Even when I eloped with her in December last year, I received threats from some unknown people. I had always been their target and the day they came to know about my wife, they must have concluded that I am the culprit, he said.
I have not done anything wrong and still I am on the run because I am scared of the police. I will surrender the day I am assured that justice will be delivered, he said.
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A 14-month-old boy drowned inside a bucket filled with water at the terrace of his house at Ashok Vihar area in Loni town of Ghaziabad on Wednesday evening. The boys father rushed him to several hospitals, but he was declared dead.
The family lived on the first floor of a house. The incident took place at around 3.45pm on Thursday, when the toddler Azam and his mother Fatma Abbasi were alone at home. The other children had gone for tuition. Fatma was busy in sweeping the house when Azam climbed the stairs and reached the roof.
It was around 3.45pm when my son climbed the stairs and got close to the 15-litre water bucket, which was half filled. He had learnt to walk and climbed to the roof during the incident. My wife got to know about the incident four to five minutes later and she ran to the roof. May be my son peeped into the bucket and fell inside head first, said boys father Musharraf Abbasi, a TV mechanic running a workshop close to his house.
I rushed him to four hospitals nearby and he was breathing hard. Later, he could not survive. He was the youngest among his five siblings, Abbasi added.
The family has got a tap installed on the roof and a bucket was kept for daily chores. Abbasi, who originally hails from Muzaffarnagar, had been staying in Loni for the past 30 years. Azam was the youngest of his five siblings. The other siblings were aged between 4 and 14 years.
The incident comes close to a similar incident in Delhis Rohini on February 25, where twins got drowned after allegedly having a head first fall into a washing machine at their house. The horrific accident occurred when the three-year-old boys mother had stepped out to buy household items after having set up the machine and filled it with water.
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One of the basic principles of the criminal justice system in India is that crimes are wrongs against the State, but our overemphasis on this principle leads us to a situation where we focus primarily on punishing the accused, ignoring the plight of the victims and their dependents who suffer grave loss and deprivation in cases of death caused by negligence, murder, rape, acid attack and other heinous crimes.
Acknowledging the fact that victims (and their dependants) need to be provided relief and rehabilitation and that this is the responsibility of the State, the United Nations Declaration on Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power, 1985, led member states to make provision for victim compensation in their laws.
India already had a law in this regard (the Code of Criminal Procedure 1973) empowering courts to order compensation if needed. But this enabling provision in the law, intended to provide relief, failed to do so because of three major reasons the court could not order the accused person to pay fine or compensation if he did not have the resources, or was found not guilty, and no interim compensation could to be ordered to be paid while the case was pending in the court.
In line with the UN Declaration, this Code of Criminal Procedure, which granted powers to the courts to award compensation to victims was amended in 2009, with the insertion of Section 357. This new clause mandated states to enact Crime Victim Compensation Schemes (VCS). As a follow-up, most states created District Legal Services Authority and State Legal Services Authority, charged with the job of providing compensation to victims and their dependents.
Although the amendment and various victim compensation schemes, set up in response, by various states governments, were well-intended, they have unfortunately not been able to provide victims the required relief because of a number of shortcomings in the way these schemes were devised and in their implementation.
The foremost is the restrictive eligibility criteria. Next is the long and vague procedure for processing of applications and the disbursement of funds. Another major infirmity is that the word dependent has not been defined anywhere in the code or in the VCSs, thus creating ambiguity within the system.
Various states and UTs have come up with their own definitions of victim, legal heir and dependents. There is no uniformity even in the time limit for applying for compensation and for getting relief.
Different states have come up with different income qualification to be eligible for compensation. In Haryana it is Rs 4.5 lakh while in Mizoram only below poverty line families can apply for compensation. In Tripura, a victim cannot claim compensation if there is an earning member in the family. There are even more restrictive clauses in several other states
States have laid down different time limits for reporting the crime to the police or magistrate, failing which the application for compensation is not to be accepted. States like Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have a time limit of 48 hours, but in Jammu and Kashmir it is six months. Many states require claimants to cooperate with the police without which their application would be rejected.
There is great disparity also in the amount of compensation offered under the Victim Compensation Scheme in different states. For instance, Rajasthan gives Rs 2 for acid attack victims; Bihar gives Rs 25, 000. For rape victims the compensation in most states is from Rs 0- 50,000. But in Haryana, Karnataka, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and UTs it is Rs 1 lakh or above. Goa provides an exceptional amount of Rs 10 lakh for rape victims.
Similarly while the handling of funds for compensation, in most states is done by the district collector, it is the legal department in Gujarat and the director of police in Uttarakhand and Tamil Nadu that is entrusted with the task.
Clearly there is a lot of ambiguity, arbitrariness, disparity, red tape in the schemes and the procedure followed that prevent the victim from receiving timely relief. The schemes are also plagued by an element of subjectivity.
The heartless and indifferent attitude of the authorities and public apathy deepens the grief of victims and dependents. It is about time they were given a sympathetic relook and issues were resolved to ensure speedy relief and justice with a degree of uniformity across states.
Perhaps, the best way to do it is to enact a central legislation overriding individual state victim compensation schemes. This would help in streamlining the process of application for compensation and remove the disparities created by different schemes offered by various state governments.
Sanjeev P Sahni is principal director, Jindal Institute of Behavioural Sciences
The views expressed are personal
After Bokaro, now a fresh examination cheating racket was busted in the state capital on Thursday when education department officials nabbed six students including two girls, who were writing class 12 examination in a room instead of an examination centre.
Ranchi police arrested all six of them and forwarded them to court on Friday. Ratu Road police station in-charge Ramod Narayan Singh said, We have arrested six students on complaints of district education officer and forwarded them to court.
The education department officials led by the district education officer (DEO) raided a house, around 500 metres away from the examination centre Adivasi Bal Vikas Vidyalaya (ABVV), Ratu Road where they were writing the maths paper of class12 examination in a locked room.
The Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) board exams for matriculation (class 10) and intermediate (class 12) began on February 18. The exams will end on March 7. Nearly eight lakh students are appearing at the exams across 1385 centres in the state.
The centre superintendent Sarju Kumar Singh said, This is a very serious issue. We are surprised how the question papers went outside the examination centre.
However, the education department removed Singh from his job on Friday on suspicion of his involvement in the racket.
The district education officer Ratan Kumar Mahavar said, We suspecting involvement of few teachers in the cheating case. Investigation is on.
This is the second incident of writing exam papers from outside the examination centre.
Bokaro police had busted an exam racket with the arrest of one Pradyuman Pandey, who was carrying answer sheets from homes of two intermediate examinees for submission at the examination centre at Industrial Area High School, Balidih on Tuesday.
The middleman on Thursday revealed that the racket was going on with help of some schools teachers for money.
Police were interrogating Pandey, who hinted at involvement of some education and administrative officials. Based on Pandeys statement, police have also lodged FIR against two students, who allegedly wrote the chemistry paper of class 12 from home on Tuesday.
Pandey runs a private school in Balidih and he divulged that he was involved in the racket for money with help of some school teachers. He said a teacher of the school Madan Sao used to help him in the job, said Balidih police station incharge A K Singh, adding atht Pandey was yet to reveal the money he used to charge the students.
Police, however, have not yet arrested the centre superintendent and two students. We will go for arrest as per procedures, Singh said, adding, interrogation of Pandey is still going on and the police expected more revelations.
Meanwhile, all teachers of the schools have been removed from the examination job after Pandeys revelation of teachers involvement in the racket.
There were 22 teachers in the school. We have removed all from examination duty and new teachers from other schools of Bokaro have been deputed for the job, Bokaro district education officer, Mahip Kumar Singh said.
Use of unfair means has been reported since the beginning of the examinations in Jharkhand. More than 300 students have been expelled so far across the state.
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Around two weeks after stray dogs mauled a four-year-old child to death at Kaironwal village in the district, a five-year-old boy was injured after a canine attack at Sarhali Kalan village, 25 km from here, on Thursday.
The victim has been identified as Karandeep Singh, who belongs to a family of farm labourers.
Sources said Karandeep and his brother had accompanied their father Baldev Singh and mother Simranjit Kaur when the latter went to a field for work. As their parents got busy in work, Karandeep, who was playing around, went to a place quite far from the field. Two stray dogs attacked him and started biting him. The dogs mauled the childs face badly and he sustained serious injuries on his head, forehead and ear.
People from a nearby farmhouse heard him crying and rushed to the spot. They rescued the child from the dogs and took him to a nearby hospital from where he was referred to the district civil hospital, said his father Baldev Singh.
Victim Karandeep sustains serious injuries as dogs bite his face and head; a 4-yr-old child was mauled to death by dogs in the district two weeks ago
With the attorney general of India clarifying that the supreme courts order on ban of sale of liquor within 500 metre of state highways applies only to liquor vends and shops, the citys bars, clubs and hotels may escape the ban. However, the UT administration is considering ways to save its liquor vends, all of which face a shutdown from April 1.
The administration has received the report from the four-member committee set up to suggest a solution to prevent a situation akin to prohibition in the city.
The committee has suggested that the verdict wouldnt apply if some of the state highways are converted into district roads.
If the highways become normal roads, the SC verdict will only affect the vends around the national highway. But the key question is whether the administration is authorised to classify state highways as district roads especially with Supreme Court being seized of the matter.
We have received the report of the committee and are studying it, says UT home secretary Anurag Agarwal who also heads the excise department. We need to take a call on how to take the suggestions forward.
On whether its within the administrations purview to declassify state highways, he said, We need to examine that.
Disturbing, says petitioner
Meanwhile, the petitioner in the case, Harman Sidhu of NGO ArriveSAFE has written to the UT administrator VP Singh Badnore that the move of UT administration to denotify state highways as district roads is disturbing and is an attempt to dodge the implications of the historic order.
HT has reported on Sunday how each liquor shop in the city whether in a five-star hotel, a restaurant or a vend is staring at closure from April 1, when the December judgment of the Supreme Court on closure of liquor shops on state highways and national highways takes effect.
The reason. On record, all major roads in the city are state highways and fall within the ambit of the judgment. The road categorisation was done around 20 years so that the UT administration could maintain these roads, with the municipal corporation short of funds at the time.
Clarification by AG
The attorney general, Mukul Rohatgis advice that the order doesnt apply on hotels and other bars has come in response to the Haryana government writing in for clarification. Official sources say that this should apply across the country then. Home secretary Anurag Agarwal said he hasnt seen the advice as the administration never sought any clarification from the AG office.
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After failing to pay salaries to teachers for February, Panjab University (PU) on Thursday moved the Punjab and Haryana high court, seeking contempt proceedings against the University Grants Commission (UGC) for its failure to release pending grant worth Rs 30 crore. On January 19, the HC had ordered the UGC to release the grant within four weeks.
UGC is a grant-giving agency that provides funds and works towards coordination, determination and maintenance of standards in institutions of higher education.
The varsity spends approximately Rs 25-26 crore on the salaries of PU staff (teaching + non-teaching) plus Rs 6 crore on pensions a month. So, Rs 32 crore is spent on salaries a month, of which 45% is spent on the salaries of the teaching staff at PU.
PU had released the salaries of the non-teaching staff and pensions worth Rs 14 crore on Wednesday night. After releasing this amount, PU is left with Rs 15-20 crore to manage routine expenditure.
PU vice-chancellor Arun Kumar Grover said, Since the Supreme Court website shows that the UGC has filed a petition on this, we are also moving the HC.
Previously, we had told the court that we will not be able to pay the salaries. Now, we have failed to pay salaries of everyone. We must inform court about the situation. Our apprehensions were not ill-founded, he said.
The V-C added, By Friday evening, we will get to know how much income we have. We cannot use the entire income, as we have electricity bills and water bills to be paid. Examination material has to be transported and papers have to be marked.
A few senators have raised questions on PUs failure to release salaries. They have blamed the decision of extending the date of the examination fee. One of the senators said that had the syndicate not extended the date for depositing examination fee by 15 days, salaries could have been released by now.
Teachers could get salary by March
Sources in the varsitys finance department said, We are receiving examination fees on a daily basis and depending on the inflow, we may release salaries of teaching faculty on March 6.
Sharing one of the reasons of the financial crisis, Professor Grover said, Over the past six years, PU has not hiked the tuition fee.
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Excess of everything is bad but a sensible use of anything can prove beneficial. With final examinations underway, social networking platforms that are generally considered a bane have turned into a boon for many students who prefer using them as a constructive tool for exchanging notes and clarifying doubts during final revision hours. Not only the students residing in urban areas prefer using social media tools like Facebook and WhatsApp for exam preparation but its popularity is also increasing among students coming from rural areas.
Students resort to them mainly to exchange notes and clear doubts instantly as they feel it saves a lot of time and is very convenient. On WhatsApp, students have created groups with their classmates and keep each other updated with how much syllabus they have revised. Some ask questions to clear their doubts while some seek better alternatives while revising tough chapters.
This is for the first time that I am using these social networking platforms for study. Best part is that you can instantly exchange notes and clear any doubts. Luckily, in my WhatsApp group, there are classmates who are top scorers and their guidance is very helpful, says a Class-12 student Jaskaran Singh of AS Modern Senior Secondary School, Khanna who daily comes from a nearby village.
Similarly, Parambir Kaur, a Class-10 student of Government Senior Secondary School, Dakha adds, On WhatsApp, everyone is easily approachable and most importantly, no one feels hesitant in putting up queries as all are our classmates only. In the class room, one often feels shy or nervous to approach the teachers again and again for clearing some doubts. Wish we all could have thought about taking support of WhatsApp and other social media platforms in our earlier exams as well.
On being asked as to what inspired them to take support of technology for their revision, majority of them credited their friends studying in urban areas where these social media tools are already popular.
Although, social media tools are often criticised by teachers and parents since youngsters excessively use them, I feel they can also be positively used. I personally exchanged many of my notes with my friends on WhatsApp. Had such tools not been there, I would have wasted a lot of time heading to different photocopy shops, shares Amandeep Singh, a Class-10 student of Government Senior Secondary School for Boys of Mansuran village.
On the other hand, experts including teachers and psychologists while appreciating the use of the social media tools cautioned that parents should also keep a tab on the children while these tools are being used.
Since one can also indulge in chatting that has nothing to do with study, it is important for parents to keep an eye on their children when they are using their phone for clearing any doubts on social media, said Jatinder Kaur Gulati, former head of human development department at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU).
Strap: Turning a bane into boon: Students exchange notes on WhatsApp, Facebook; find them convenient and fast methods to clarify doubts during exams
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Recently appointed chairman of Tata Sons, Natarajan Chandrasekaran began his journey with the group at a board of directors meeting at the Tata Steel premises in Jamshedpur, on the eve of founder, Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tatas 178th birth anniversary.
The board meeting was organised to reinforce the message that the company is committed to follow JN Tatas industrial vision and principles. The last such meeting was held in the early 1990s.
A monthly affair,the board meeting here did not adopt any major decision, the only significance being its iteration to stick to the founders guidelines.
Director Ishaat Hussain said, No major decision was supposed to be taken at the meeting as it was meant to re-dedicate the company to the founders ideals while running the company in days to come. It was a routine monthly meeting, otherwise organised in Mumbai. Under the leadership of new chairman, the company will move forward to new horizons in steel industry.
Directors including DK Mehrotra, Andrew Robb and others had flown to Jamshedpur to attend the meeting and celebrate Founders Day programme commencing from March 3. Former chairman Rata Tata also reached the town on Thursday to attend the grand celebrations.
Tata Steel had started production at Jamshedpur on February 16 in 1912 and board members were willing to start a fresh journey with the new chairman from the place that made the company pioneers of the steel industry. Company sources said the board of directors meeting was organised in the town that was late JN Tatas favourite.
U.S. Consul General Craig Hall has announced that U.S. Consulate Kolkata-sponsored anti-Trafficking in Persons (TIP) caravan which will start in Kolkata in late March, will travel through the districts of West Bengal, cross Ranchi on April 6 and reach Patna on May 11 to focus on issues related to fighting human trafficking in the eastern states of India.
In Jharkhand, the caravan will pass through trafficking-hit Khunti, Gumla, Lohardanga and Chaibhasa districts.
The TIP caravan will be a big mobilization and convergence of civil society, government agencies in combatting human trafficking at grass root level, Hall said while addressing a workshop in Ranchi on Thursday.
The U.S. Consulate Kolkata in partnership with New Delhi based non-governmental organization Shakti Vahini and Kolkata based social enterprise Banglanatakdotcom organized the workshop in Ranchi titled woMEn: Understanding my Responsibility in Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Inequality to address issues related to gender based violence and inequality.
The workshop was attended by 60 students belonging to various universities and colleges of Jharkhand, Bihar and north India.
The workshop empowered youth to transform their ideas into actionable projects through capacity building and mentorship.
Students went through structured training on how to use theater as well as digital media to create effective messaging.
Participants also got the opportunity to virtually connect with student leaders from the University of Texas at Austin. They shared best practices from the universitys on-campus programmes with their Indian counterparts.
In addition to key activists and resource persons from India, the workshop hosted Raymond O. Caldwell, Resident-director and full-time Theatre professor in the Department of Theatre Arts at Howard University and Johamy Morales, an artist, from Colorado. During the workshop they interacted with the university students teaching them how to use art to address issues related to gender based violence.
The Madras high court on Thursday stayed the proceedings on a paternity claim over actor Dhanush made by an elderly couple in a magistrate court as it posted their plea for a DNA test for hearing on March 9.
Justice G Chockalingam ordered the stay, valid till further orders, during the hearing of a petition by the actor seeking to quash the proceedings pending in the judicial magistrate court in nearby Melur.
The judge was allowing the plea of Dhanush, son-in-law of superstar Rajinikanth, for a stay on the proceedings.
On the plea for DNA test, the judge wondered why the couples advocate did not file the miscellaneous petition for the test for such a long time since moving the Melur court.
In his petition, Kathiresan, who has claimed himself to be the father of Dhanush, contended that it was necessary to hold the DNA test to know the truth about his parentage.
We are ready to undergo the DNA test. And the same should be ordered for Dhanush also, he said.
Earlier, the Dean of Government Rajaji Hospital submitted in the court a report on verification of personal identification marks of Dhanush conducted by a team headed by him, complying with its February 28 order.
Hospital Dean Dr Vairamuthu Raju along with his team had on March 1 verified the identification marks for about half an hour in the presence of the judicial registrar of the high court.
On February 28, the actor had appeared before the judge along with his mother Vijayalakshmi and father Kasthuri Raja, a film director.
Justice Chockalingam had then ordered the verification after Kathiresan and his wife Meenakshi submitted a set of school documents mentioning the birth marks of their son.
Opposing the actors petition, the couple also claimed that the documents filed by his parents such as birth and transfer certificates and ID marks were fake and fabricated.
The couple has claimed in the Melur court that Dhanush was their third son and also sought a monthly maintenance of Rs 65,000 as they were in a very poor financial position.
They have submitted that Dhanush was a school boy when he ran away to Chennai to get into the film world. They could not trace him then and recognised him while watching movies. Their efforts to meet him in Chennai did not succeed, they said.
However, the actor has denied the submissions saying their entire statements were false.
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Thala Ajiths Vivegam, which marks his third successive collaboration with director Siva after Veeram and Vedalam, is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated Tamil releases of 2017. With over 50% of the shooting already wrapped up, the makers are planning to release the film in August, most likely on the second Thursday of the month.
However, the team hasnt officially locked the release date yet, leaving the fans in a state of uncertainty.
A source informs HT that the producers are in a state of dilemma as they have two release dates in mind. While the initial plan was to release on August 10, the team also has plans to push the release by two weeks and bring out the film on August 25. Unfortunately, Sivakarthikeyans Velaikkaran, too, is planning to release on August 25 as their team has locked the date long back. Hence, the release date of Vivegam, which also stars Kajal Aggarwal and Akshara Haasan, remains a mystery.
In the film, Ajith plays an Interpol agent and will be seen taking on Vivek Oberoi, who is being introduced as the antagonist. Having predominantly shot abroad, the makers will return to Bulgaria later this month to shoot the final schedule.
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Director Jayan Cherians Malayalam film Ka Bodyscapes has been denied certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) which said that the movie is glorifying the subject of gay and homosexual relationships.
The director shared the letter in which the second revising committee from the CBFC said that they have unanimously decided not to certify the film as the religion of Hindu is portrayed in a derogatory manner.
It is official, Mr.Pahalaj Nihalani put the final nail in my coffin! Cherian posted on Twitter.
Ka Bodyscapes is about three young people in Calicut -- Haris, a gay painter; Vishnu, a rural kabaddi player, and their friend Sia and their struggle to find space and happiness in a conservative Indian city. It stars Adhithi, Tinto Arayani and Arundhathi.
Last month, Prakash Jhas upcoming production Lipstick Under My Burkha was denied certification by the CBFC for being lady oriented and containing abusive words.
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If youve spent the past week wondering why a lady-oriented film is a bad thing or how being a pacifist could be construed as being unpatriotic, check out the 12th Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards (META) festival. The issues that some of the plays highlight will make you reflect deeper on the nuances that are often lost in public debates.
The festival opens with Apna Manch Drama Companys Lassanwalla, a tragi-comedy that narrates a Brahmin garlic sellers discovery of the idea of social equality. Then there is Awddyo Shesh Rajani based on Bengali theatre personality Ashim Chakraborty. The play, produced by Kolkatas Paikpara Indraranga and directed by the states IT minister Bratya Basu, also looks at the controversy around Chakrabortys iconic 1972 play Barbadhu (The Prostitute). Barbadhu ran to full houses for 1,800 shows and faced state censorship. In one of the scenes between a zamindars son and the protagonist, a prostitutes bra was shown onstage. It offended some sensibilties, says producer Indrajit Chakraborty. Though the court ruled against this policing of art, the long-drawn ostracisation, is said to have contributed to the directors early demise.
While Katkatha Puppet Arts Trusts play Mahabharata meditates on war and peace through the dilemmas of 13 characters, Kochi-based theatre group Lokadharmis Malayalam play Kaali Naadakam explores caste relations and ideas of power and justice through a murder that takes place during the performance of a traditional temple play.
Also part of this years shortlist is actor-director Rajat Kapoors adaptation of Shakespeares pastoral comedy As You Like It enacted by clowns. (Photo: Vidya Subramanian / HT )
The 10 plays, showcasing a diversity of languages and subjects, have been shortlisted from 300 entries received from across the country. The performances will be judged across 13 categories and the winners announced on the fests finale, March 10. The jury -- theatre actors Dolly Thakore, Seema Biswas and Sachin Khedekar, playwright-actor Mahesh Dattani, actor Avijit Dutt and performer Maya K Rao. Marathi theatre doyen Arun Kakade, 85, who co-founded the famous Awishkar Theatre Group best known for its experimental theatre will receive the META 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Also part of this years shortlist is actor-director Rajat Kapoors adaptation of Shakespeares pastoral comedy As You Like It enacted by clowns. Kapoor says Shakespeares experimentation with the idea of gender a boy actor pretends to be a woman who pretends to be man only to play act being a woman before her lover drew him to the story. The director of the troupe of clowns in my play decides that boys will play girls and girls will play boys. So that became my central idea gender roles and what it means to be a man or a woman today, says Kapoor. I Dont Like It, As You Like It also stars actors Vinay Pathak and Cyrus Sahukar.
Akarsh Khuranas office drama Dhumrapaan, produced in collaboration with Kumud Mishras D for Drama company, will be performed in Delhi for the first time. The play, set in the smoking room of a corporate office, looks at how equations change when the company declares it will downsize at the end of a surprise assessment week. That, says Khurana, becomes a catalyst for peoples true colours to be revealed.
QUICK FACTS
What: 12th Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards and Festival 2017
When: March 4 to 9. Check out the schedule and book tickets at http://metawards.com/schedule/
Timing: 6-8 pm
Venue: Kamani Auditorium, Shri Ram Centre for Arts and LTG Auditorium, Mandi House
Nearest metro station: Mandi House
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Two more members of US President Donald Trumps campaign team spoke to Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak at an event held during the Republican National Convention last July, a media report said.
Retired US Navy officer Jeffrey D. Gordon and oil industry consultant Carter Page spoke with Kislyak at the event in Cleveland, but the contents of their discussion remains unknown, the USA Today said the report on Thursday.
Gordon, who managed the advisory committee as the Trump campaigns director of national security, said that while he also spoke with Kislyak in Cleveland, it was not unusual for a presidential campaign to interact with diplomats.
Id consider it an informal conversation just like my interactions with dozens of other ambassadors and senior diplomats in Cleveland, Gordon told USA Today.
Page, also a member of the Trump campaigns national security advisory committee, cited confidentiality rules in declining to say what he discussed with the ambassador.
I had no substantive discussions with him, said Page, who left the campaign later in the summer amid controversy over a speech he gave in Moscow also in July criticising American foreign policy and sanctions against Russia.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions also met with Kislyak during the event, The Hill magazine reported.
The former Alabama senator came under fire on Wednesday night amid Justice Department claims that he spoke with the ambassador twice during the campaign, once at the Heritage event and another time privately in September, encounters he which he did not disclose during his Congressional confirmation hearing to become the Attorney General in January.
Sessions announced at a press conference Thursday afternoon that would recuse himself from any existing or future investigations that relate to the Trump campaign.
Probes into Russias attempts to meddle with the election reportedly involve examining Trump aides contacts with Moscow.
The revelation that Gordon and Page spoke with Kislyak is the latest in a series of reports involving the Russian diplomat, the magazine said.
Trumps first National Security Adviser Michael Flynn resigned last month after it was revealed that he discussed sanctions with Kislyak in the month before Trump took office.
The New York Times also reported on Thursday that Flynn attended a meeting between Kislyak and Trumps son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner in December.
A White House spokesperson said the meeting was meant to establish a line of communication between the incoming administration and the Kremlin.
A taxi stops in the small town of Champlain. Loaded down with belongings, a family with two children gets out and hurries to the roads end at a stream marking the US-Canada border.
We are coming all the way from Jersey City, says the father, Mohammed Ahmed. The city near New York is more than 300 miles (500 km) to the south.
Talking while walking, he and his wife explain how they left Pakistan 11 months ago after getting death threats.
We came to the US to ask for asylum, he said. But with new President Donald Trumps anti-immigrant policy we are very much scared from deportation.
Across the New York state border in Quebec, two Canadian police officers warn them they will all be arrested for entering Canada illegally.
It is all right, said the father. We just need to cross the border.
He crosses the stream, shows his passport, and turns back to help their three-year-old daughter, then his wife who is carrying their three-month-old baby in a pouch, cross the rock-filled water.
Conditions for making the crossing are good: Its cold but the sun is shining, and last weeks snow has melted away.
A few minutes later the family finds itself, visibly relieved, in Canada.
The Canadian police bring them to the official border post of Lacolle, about 10 minutes away, where they will be questioned and their asylum request will be registered.
If all goes well, the family will then head to Montreal, 40 miles (65 km) north.
This week, in less than two days, more than 70 people have crossed the stream into Canada, according to a tally by AFP and local police -- among them Haitian families, Colombians and many Muslims.
A Syrian family, who lived in the United States for 18 months and whose oldest daughter was to finish high school in June, left in a hurry after Trump banned entry of nationals of seven Muslim-majority countries, including Syria, for 90 days and barred entry by Syrian refugees indefinitely.
Constant migrant flow
Trumps January 27 order, just a week after he took office, has been blocked by the courts, but his administration is working to amend it to address the legal objections.
Melissa Beshaw, a grandmother who lives in a small house about 165 feet (50 metres) from the stream on the US side, said that since Trump has been in office, its constant... Its traffic all the time.
I used to get out and look to see what was going on, she said. I dont anymore because I know.
Some migrants arrive by car to Plattsburgh, the last stop in New York state before the border. For the final 25 miles to the stream, they take a taxi, which costs them between $200 and $300, said Denise Quinte, an employee at a motel near where the cars stop.
Since early February, the motel has seen 10 to 25 people a week, she said, often heading to the border at dawn, leaving behind some belongings.
Others come directly by car from New York City and neighboring states such as Massachusetts and New Jersey.
The numbers of migrants is a trickle compared to the thousands who cross the Mediterranean each month to reach Europe.
While Canadian authorities dont directly link the flow to Trump administration policies, they acknowledge that the number of migrants from the United States has increased since January, especially through the Quebec border.
The trend is striking, because until now the United States has seemed welcoming to foreigners.
The banks of the border stream bear the litter of hasty crossings: water bottles, lost gloves and hats, an abandoned stroller, fragments of boarding passes -- several from Arab companies -- and even a cellphone.
A discarded plastic bag reveals the journey of a Sudanese couple. Inside, two soggy pages, in poor English, explain how Asma Elyas and her husband Ayman fled Sudan to avoid the female circumcision of their daughter who was born in 2014.
After several months in Saudi Arabia, they flew to Washington on September 7, 2016, two months before Trumps election.
A document shows that they agreed in late September to pay a law firm in neighbouring Virginia $3,500 to handle their asylum request. Several pamphlets and a Virginia maternity booklet indicate the woman was pregnant.
These personal effects do not explain why the Sudanese couple left the US for Canada. But a Quebec police officer is sure he knows the reason: The arrivals truly began with Trumps immigration crackdown in late January, he said.
Now, there are a lot of people. As if it took time for that to sink in.
Indias exports to China rebounded to show a 42% increase in January, latest figures have revealed, sending a signal that China should not ignore its neighbours increasing competitiveness in the manufacturing sector, a state media report said on Friday.
Data from Indias ministry of commerce showed that there was marked increase in Indian exports to China in January (year-to-year comparison) 52% increase in cotton, more than 810% in inorganic chemicals and nearly 200% in iron and steel.
The data also revealed that China continues to hold a huge advantage in bilateral trade; the total value of bilateral trade was around $6.83 billion in January and Indias export share was around $1.34 billion.
The nationalistic tabloid Global Times said it was important for China to analyse the data to see whether this trend will continue.
Official data showing Indias January exports to China soared 42% year-on-year was overlooked by most Chinese analysts, but it will be a very dangerous venture if China adopts an arrogant attitude toward Indias increasing competitiveness, the state-controlled tabloid said.
Scholars should make a careful analysis about the soaring growth to find out whether this is merely a flash in the pan or a result of subtle changes in competition in the manufacturing sector, it said.
The article doubted whether Indias higher-than-expected economic growth of 7% from October to December 2016 is authentic and reliable.
Meanwhile, less attention is being paid to bright points in the countrys economy. What cannot be overlooked is the increasing competitiveness of the manufacturing sector in India, it said.
The article added Indias manufacturing sector grew by 8.3% in the third quarter of 2016 and that it was a great achievement for India, even if the growth figure may be exaggerated as some analysts suggest.
It mentioned that rising labour costs in China will work in favour of countries like India and Vietnam.
Although India is still in its initial stage of developing export-oriented manufacturing industries, the country has great potential to emerge as a regional hub for labour-intensive industries. One recent analysis showed Chinas manufacturing hourly wage in 2016 was roughly five times that in India, the GT article headlined China should pay more attention to Indias increasing manufacturing competitiveness said.
It argued that Chinese manufacturers will face more competition and pressure from a large country like India more than from Vietnam.
As labour costs climb in China, Vietnam has become an emerging manufacturing nation, but China doesnt need to panic. However, manufacturing development in a large country like India means more pressure on China. The increasing competitiveness of Indias manufacturing sector is an issue of strategic importance and deserves more attention, it said.
On the whole, rapid economic expansion in India is a good thing for China as Chinas consumer market matures, but Chinese manufacturers will inevitably face increased competition from Indian firms at the same time.
South Korean firms are being squeezed in China, in suspected retaliation for Seouls deployment of a US missile defence system, highlighting the tools China can deploy to hit back at the corporate interests of trade partners it disagrees with.
The chill facing Korea Inc, from cosmetics and supermarket chains to autos and tourism, points to a potential risk for American companies, amid a more confrontational stance taken by new US President Donald Trump
In China, state media and grassroots political groups have led angry calls to boycott popular Korean products. Photos on social media and local news websites showed crowds vandalising a Hyundai Motor Co car, and some Chinese tourism firms moved to cancel Korean tours.
Beijing is furious over a joint plan by South Korea and the United States to set up the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) missile system in South Korea. Seoul and Washington say it will defend against nuclear-armed North Korean missiles. But Beijing says its far-reaching radar is targeted at China.
Read | N Korea missile launch: US pledges nuclear defence for Japan, S Korea if needed
The furore echoes protests in 2012 against Japanese firms during a row with Tokyo over disputed islands in the East China Sea. The dispute flared on Monday when Lotte approved a land-swap deal that moved the THAAD system closer to deployment.
On Thursday, Lotte Duty Free, an affiliate of Korean conglomerate Lotte Group, said it had been the target of a suspected Chinese cyber attack.
Whats happening to Korean companies now is a pretty good playbook for what might happen to US firms over the next year, said Andrew Gilholm, director of analysis for China and North Asia at risk consultancy Control Risks.
Rather than the big dramatic trade war, everything goes to hell scenario under Trump, its probably more likely to be manifested as regulatory harassment of companies - one of the lower intensity tools for China.
Korean stocks plunged on Friday, hitting cosmetics giant Amorepacific Corp, carmaker Hyundai, and airlines Jeju Air Co Ltd, Korean Air Lines Co Ltd and Asiana Airlines Inc.
Political pressure
Some companies hinted at feeling political pressure to loosen or cut ties with South Korea. Korean media reported China had ordered tour operators in Beijing to stop selling trips to the country.
Three major Chinese tour operators Reuters spoke to, including China Youth Travel Service, said they were still offering Korean tours. A customer service worker at Tuniu Corp, however, said the firm had stopped providing tours to Korea, citing the THAAD controversy. Tuniu did not respond to requests for comment.
Lotte also said searches for its products had been disrupted on major e-commerce platform JD.com Inc, though it did not directly say this was due to diplomatic tensions. JD.com declined to comment.
The CEO of Chinese retailer Jumei.com posted on his official microblog that his firm would no longer sell Lotte products. The firm did not respond to Reuters requests for comment.
Some retailers have removed Lotte sales channels over the last week as a result of political pressure, said a senior China-based retail industry executive, asking not to be named because of the sensitivity of the issues.
The Communist Party Youth League at central and local levels also fanned the flames online, calling for consumers not to buy products including cars, cosmetics and electronics.
We say no to Lotte! the national-level Communist Youth League wrote in a post on its official microblog page.
Chinese firms have pledged to invest $8.3 billion in different sectors during the two-day Nepal Investment Summit 2017 in Kathmandu, far higher than the Indian commitment of $317 million.
The investments pledged by Indian companies during the summit that concluded on Friday was below the figures for Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Japan and the UK, officials said.
The investment by the Chinese firms reflected the economic muscle-flexing by China, which holds the top slot in total foreign direct investments in Nepal. Chinas FDI commitment jumped 28% in the first half of the current fiscal year.
FDI commitments from mainland China swelled more than threefold to Nepalese Rs 3.48 billion during the period from mid-July to mid-January, according to the latest data from Nepals department of industry.
However, FDI commitments from India plunged 76% during the same period. Indias FDI pledges amounted to Nepalese Rs 439.65 million in the first half of the current fiscal, down from Rs 1.87 billion during the same period last year.
China fielded the largest delegation of 89 firms at the investment summit. Jin Liqun, president of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, participated in the meeting and announced that Nepal will start getting loans for his institution in 2018.
During the summit, a total of $13.52 billion was pledged as foreign investments, according to an official statement.
Indias finance minister Arun Jaitley participated in the summit as a key note speaker and 21 Indian firms made commitments to invest in hydropower, the service sector and IT. Jaitley said more soft loans will be provided for new infrastructure projects and called for a better regulatory framework.
Bangladesh committed to invest $2.4 billion, Japan and the UK each pledged $1 billion and Sri Lanka $500 million.
Investment Board Nepal CEO Maha Prasad Adhikari said the government will work to creating a conducive environment and simplify the process for foreign investors.
The investment summit was held for the second time and attracted more than 1,000 domestic and foreign companies.
The border dispute between China and India can be resolved if New Delhi accepts Beijings claim over strategically vital Tawang region in Arunachal Pradesh, Chinas former top diplomat has said, but Indian officials dismissed it as neither practical nor possible.
Dai Bingguo, who served as the Chinas boundary negotiator with India from 2003 to 2013, told Chinese media, If the Indian side takes care of Chinas concerns in the eastern sector of their border, the Chinese side will respond accordingly and address Indias concerns elsewhere.
Elaborating Chinas stand, Dai who conducted border talks with five Indian Special Representatives starting with Brajesh Mishra in 2003 said, The disputed territory in the eastern sector of the China-India boundary, including Tawang, is inalienable from Chinas Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction.
He said that colonial British government which drew the McMahon Line accepted Beijings claim on Tawang.
China has rejected McMahon Line in Indias case but accepted it in settling boundary dispute with Myanmar.
Even British colonialists who drew the illegal McMahon Line respected Chinas jurisdiction over Tawang and admitted that Tawang was part of Chinas Tibet, Dai told the China-India Dialogue magazine.
Dai was Chinas top diplomat and held the post of State Councillor in the previous Hu Jintao administration.
His interview was published by the magazine in its January edition ahead of India-China Strategic Dialogue held here last month co-chaired by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar.
Dai, regarded as a wily negotiator, did not specify where China is willing to make a concession along the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control (LAC).
He also did not specify this in the book he wrote in Chinese language on the border talks.
Indian officials, however, said Dais proposal is neither practical nor possible for India to accept considering that Tawang is an integral part of Arunachal Pradesh and has sent representatives to Parliament in every election since 1950.
In his interview, Dai said essential nature of the China-India boundary question is the need to correct wrongs made by colonialists and to restore fairness and justice.
For historical reasons, India now controls the majority of the disputed territory. The boundary question was not created by China or India, so we shouldnt be inheriting it and letting the ghosts of colonialism continue to haunt our bilateral relations, he said.
Though published afresh in Chinese media, Beijing has been making such a demand for concession for long.
Former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon who was Indias Special Representative for border talks and held several rounds of talks with Dai until the present NSA Ajit Doval took over in 2014, has mentioned the issue in his recently released book Choices: Inside the Making of Indias Foreign Policy.
While China demanded concessions in the Western sector before the 1962 war, it changed the line to East after 1980s.
Chinese officials began saying in the 1980s that Beijing would compromise only if India made major adjustments first, adding that once India indicated concessions in the East, China would indicate concessions in the West, Menon wrote in the book.
In 1985, China specified that the concession it was seeking in the East was Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, something that any government of India would find difficult to accept, as this was settled area that had sent representatives to every Indian Parliament since 1950, he wrote.
The Indian Supreme Court also held in the Berubari case in 1956 that the government could not cede sovereign territory to another government without a constitutional amendment, though it could made adjustments and rectifications in the boundaries of India, Menon wrote in the book, highlighting Indias problem in accepting Chinas demand.
Apparently Chinas stand on the border settlement was different earlier lacking consistency.
Menon wrote that former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai during his visit to India in 1960 suggested that China might recognise the McMahon line boundary in the East in return to India accepting Chinas claim in the West to provide strategic depth for China along the Aksai Chin road between Xinjiang and Tibet, which is now China National Highway 219.
Menon said India for the first time had Chinese troops at the border only after the Peoples Liberation of Army (PLA) took control of Tibet.
After the occupation of Aksai Chin area in the 1962 war, Chinas stand reported to have changed.
While China says the border dispute covers Arunachal Pradesh which it claims as Southern Tibet, India asserts that the dispute covered Aksai Chin area.
Bilateral ties will be seriously damaged if India allows the Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh in the coming weeks, China warned on Friday while reiterating its contention that the Tibetan spiritual leader is a separatist.
The warning from Chinas foreign ministry came soon after the countrys former chief negotiator on the border issue, Dai Bingguo, said there should be some give and take to settle the dragging boundary dispute.
The foreign ministry said it is gravely concerned about reports that the Dalai Lama will visit the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh in the near future.
The Dalai Lamas visit will cause serious damage to China-India ties, foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang told a regular news briefing. China is strongly opposed to Dalai Lama visiting disputed areas, he said.
Chinas position on eastern section of China-India border dispute is consistent and clear. The Dalai-clique has long been engaging in anti-China separatist activities and its record on the border question is not that good, Geng said.
Meanwhile, India on Friday dismissed Chinas warning over the Dalai Lamas proposed visit to Arunachal Pradesh, saying that New Delhis position on the matter is well known.
The governments position is well known and has not changed, external affairs ministry spokesperson Gopal Baglay said in response to a query.
China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of its territory, calling it south Tibet. The state comprises the eastern sector of the nearly 3,500-km disputed border between India and China. The town of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is an important seat of Tibetan Buddhism and is located 400 km from Lhasa, the capital of Chinas Tibet Autonomous Region.
Geng avoided a direct comment on an interview by Dai Bingguo, Chinas Special Representative for border talks with India till 2013, in which Dai had said: If the Indian side takes care of Chinas concerns on the eastern section of the border, the Chinese side will respond accordingly and address Indias concerns elsewhere.
Dai didnt mention specific sections of the border where China could address Indias concerns.
The disputed territory in the eastern sector of the China-India boundary including Tawang (in Arunachal Pradesh) is inalienable from Chinas Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction, Dai told China-India Dialogue magazine that is part of the official China International Publishing Group.
Dai was the Special Representative for 15 rounds of talks with four Indian counterparts Brajesh Mishra, JN Dixit, MK Narayanan and Shivshankar Menon.
Without directly commenting on the interview, Geng said it is in the fundamental interest of the two countries to reach an early solution to the border issue. This is also an important consensus reached by the two sides, he added.
At present the two sides have reached a roadmap to find a solution based on political parameters and guiding principles. They have also reached the important consensus that they are committed to an equitable, reasonable solution acceptable to the two sides, Geng said.
China would like to work with India to work relentlessly on negotiation process and find a solution that is equitable, reasonable to all parties, he added.
Geng was more emphatic about Chinas displeasure on the Dalai Lamas visit to Arunchal Pradesh. Indicating that India is deliberately allowing the Dalai Lama to visit the region despite knowing Chinas expected reaction, Geng said India is aware of the sensitivity of the matter.
India is fully aware of the seriousness of the Dalai issue and the sensitivity of China-India border question, he said.
Under such a background if India invites Dalai to visit the mentioned territory it will cause serious damage to peace and stability of the border region and China-India relations.
Geng said China had conveyed its displeasure and concerns to India about the impending visit through formal channels.
We have expressed concerns to the Indian side, urged India to stick to its political commitments and abide by important consensus the two sides have reached on the boundary question, refrain from actions that might complicate the issue, not provide a platform to the Dalai-clique and protect the sound and stable development of China-India relations, he said.
China had strongly protested against the Dalai Lamas meeting with President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in December, saying it opposes any form of contact between the Tibetan leader and officials of other countries.
(With agency inputs)
A high school in Germanys western Wuppertal city has banned Muslim students from praying within the premises.
A circular was issued to teachers at the Gymnasium Johannes Rau school asking them to identify names and report any cases of Muslim students praying in school to management.
The circular further read that the ban should be pointed out to students in a friendly manner.
In recent weeks, it has been increasingly observed that Muslim pupils in the school building are praying, clearly visible to others, signalled by ritual washings in the toilets, the rolling out of prayer mats and taking up certain postures. This is not permitted, DW news quoted the document as saying.
This is not the first time a school has asked its Muslim students to stop from praying.
In 2011, a high-school student from Berlin-Wedding approached a court after he was not allowed to pray publicly.
Germanys Administrative Court rejected his complaint on the grounds that his prayers would disturb the school peace.
The vandalism of more than a dozen headstones at a Jewish cemetery in Rochester is being investigated by a New York hate crime task force, the third known case of a Jewish cemetery desecration in the country in the last two weeks.
Democratic New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said he ordered the investigation at Waad Hakolel Cemetery given the wave of bomb threats that later proved hoaxes targeting Jewish community centres and vandalism at Jewish cemeteries in Philadelphia and St. Louis.
U.S. President Donald Trump, a Republican, has condemned the threats and attacks, although he has at times also questioned whether some perpetrators might be opponents of his seeking to link his new presidency with a rise in anti-Semitism.
Trumps election campaign last year drew support from some white nationalists and right-wing groups, despite his disavowals of them.
Besides the toppling of headstones at the Rochester cemetery, images of the deceased embedded on at least half a dozen headstones had been scratched away, although it was not clear how long ago, said Karen Elam, the director of community relations at the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester.
Its clear vandalism, she said in a telephone interview after touring the cemetery on Thursday afternoon to photograph the damage. Any vandalism of a Jewish cemetery is de facto anti-Semitism.
Michael Phillips, president of the non-profit organization that oversees the cemetery, told the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle newspaper that there was no proof the vandalisation was a case of anti-Semitism, citing the smaller scale of the damage in Rochester.
About 100 headstones were knocked over at a Jewish cemetery in Philadelphia last weekend, and about 170 headstones were knocked over in a Jewish cemetery in St. Louis.
Officials at the cemetery in Rochester did not return calls seeking comment. In 2014, vandals toppled more than 40 headstones at another Jewish cemetery near Rochester, but local police concluded the vandalism was not motivated by anti-Semitism, the Democrat & Chronicle reported.
Ninety-year-old Khatla Ali Abdallah has survived decades of turbulence in northern Iraq, but the frail grandmother who fled the battle for Mosul this week says the fighting there is the worst she has ever seen.
Carried across the desert by her grandsons, under sniper and mortar fire, she was one of thousands who braved the difficult and dangerous journey out of Islamic States shrinking stronghold in the west of the city.
Im a 90-year-old woman and I havent seen such a war, she said in a camp for displaced people south of Mosul, where she was taken by Iraqi security forces.
Khatla lived through Saddam Husseins quarter century in power, when Iraq fought wars with neighbouring Iran and Kuwait and endured a decade of devastating sanctions. That was followed by a U.S.-led invasion which toppled Saddam and led to years of sectarian war across the country.
Even under the Saddam era, we were afraid because of the atrocities and the people killed, she said. But nothing is compared to this phase.
Since the launch of the military campaign in October to retake Mosul from Islamic State, Khatla remained in her home in the citys southwestern al-Mamoun district, now in the hands of Iraqs U.S.-backed Counter Terrorism Service (CTS).
At times she took shelter in her basement with the 20 chickens that she looked after - reminders, she said, of her youth when she also herded sheep and cattle.
I havent lost any chickens, not even a one little chick, she said. We were trapped in the basement and we could hear the bullets hitting the metal roof of the chicken pen.
Her grandsons carried her for miles in the desert to reach the CTS lines, and then she was taken on a bus to a camp for internally displaced people.
We just want to make it through this war, she said. This one will make stories for generations to tell.
A Kansas man who survived an apparently racially motivated shooting at a suburban Kansas City restaurant and bar is out of the hospital and has already visited the scene of the attack.
Ian Grillot, 24, was released from the hospital Tuesday, The University of Kansas Health System said in a statement Thursday. Grillot was one of three men shot Feb. 22 at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas. One of the men, Srinivas Kuchibhotla, was killed, and his friend, Alok Madasani, was wounded.
Both Kuchibhotla and Madasani were natives of India working as engineers for GPS-maker Garmin in Olathe.
A bullet hit Grillot in the hand and entered his chest when he tried to stop the suspected gunman, 51-year-old Adam Puriton, of Olathe. Puriton is charged with murder and attempted murder.
Witnesses say Puriton shouted racial slurs before shooting Kuchibhotla and Madasani.
On Wednesday, Grillot went to church and then stopped at Austins for closure, the hospital said in a statement. He also returned to the hospital for a meeting with three officials from the Consulate General of India in Houston.
The dignitaries told Grillot and his family they were grateful for his actions the night of the shooting and invited Grillot and his family to visit India when he is able to travel. Consul General Anupam Ray told Grillot that his bravery is more representative of America than the violence at Austins, the hospital said.
An Indian-origin woman in the US has been allegedly racially abused by an African-American man who called her inappropriate names and yelled get out of here when she was travelling in a busy commuter train.
Ekta Desai, who lives in New York, took a video of the incident that occurred on February 23.
The video was then shared by a website The Voice Raiser and has since then gone viral and viewed by hundreds of thousands of people.
In the video, the African-American man is seen abusing the woman, saying words like Freedom of speech and Black Power. Using expletives, he tells her to get out of here.
As the woman is recording the video, the man gets visibly angry and is seen shouting at her.
This man was on the same PATH train as me along with 100 other passengers, I had my headphones on and it was like any other day. Next thing I know he is yelling on my face (Did not bother to listen/react), Desai wrote on social media.
Desai said she did not react to the man but he continued shouting and questioned as to why she was taking his photo and pictures. Several people have reacted sympathetically towards the woman after the video was posted online.
Desai said she reported the matter to police authorities, who allegedly said the man appears to be emotionally unstable and she should be careful.
Desai then contacted Kundan Srivastava, a Human Rights activist and founder of The Voice Raiser, who said the US government should punish the man for harassing and abusing women and also insulting our nation.
We would also like to say that being a girl does not make anyone less capable or helpless. As you can see in the video, people are just standing as a mere spectator. He yelled disgusting things and used unacceptable words. A person should abide by the civic rules and does not slut shame a woman. Keep Fighting!, Srivastavas organisation said.
The incident comes close on the heels of the shooting in Kansas of a 32-year-old Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla who was killed when 51-year-old US Navy veteran Adam Purinton opened fire at him and his friend Alok Madasani at a bar before yelling get out of my country.
The shooting sent shock waves across the Indian-American community here with people expressing concerns over their safety in an environment of xenophobic and racist rhetoric in the country.
Malaysia released on Friday a North Korean suspect in the murder of the estranged half-brother of North Koreas leader and prepared to deport him, while police issued an arrest warrant for another North Korean wanted in connection with the killing.
Kim Jong Nam was murdered on February 13 at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, after being assaulted by two women who Malaysian police believe smeared his face with VX, a chemical classified by the United Nations as a weapon of mass destruction.
The women, one from Indonesia and the other from Vietnam, were later detained and were charged this week with murder.
A North Korean man, Ri Jong Chol, was also arrested days after the murder, but he was released from police detention on Friday. He was taken from detention to an immigration office wearing a bullet proof vest to be processed before being sent back to Pyongyang.
He, accompanied by two representatives of the North Korean embassy, are scheduled to depart to their native country today, Mustafar Ali, director general of the Immigration Department said in a statement.
Malaysias attorney-general told Reuters on Thursday he was being released due to insufficient evidence.
The murder of Kim Jong Nam, 47, has soured relations between Malaysia and North Korea, which had maintained friendly ties for decades.
South Korean intelligence and U.S. officials say the murder was an assassination organised by North Korean agents.
Kim, who had been living in the Chinese territory of Macau under Beijings protection, had spoken out publicly against his familys dynastic control of isolated, nuclear-armed North Korea.
South Korean legislators cited their spy agency as saying the young and unpredictable North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un, had issued a standing order for his half-brothers assassination, and that there had been a failed attempt in 2012.
SUSPECTS
Police have identified seven other North Koreans wanted in connection with the killing, including a senior embassy official and a member of staff at the North Korean airline Air Koryo. Four of them are known to have left Malaysia.
An arrest warrant was issued on Friday for the 37-year old airline worker, Kim Uk Il. Malaysia has stepped up checks at all border crossings for North Koreans linked to the case, police have said.
Malaysias deputy prime minister and home minister, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, said authorities would also investigate a North Korea-linked company that is suspected of operating a sanctions-busting arms business in Malaysia.
Reuters reported this week that a front company run by North Korean intelligence agents ran an arms operation out of Malaysia.
Definitely we are going to investigate any such incidences, Zahid said when asked about the arms operation.
North Korea has not commented on its suspected involvement in the arms operation.
It has also not confirmed the death of Kim Jong Nam.
It has acknowledged the death of a North Korean but its ambassador said earlier that Malaysian police investigations could not be trusted.
North Korea said that its citizen may have died of a heart attack.
Kim Jong Nam was in the airport departure hall when he was assaulted by the women, who wiped his face with a liquid, identified in an autopsy as VX. He died within 20 minutes.
The women have told diplomats from their home countries that they thought they were participating in a prank for reality television.
Malaysia condemned the use of VX and has said it is in close contact with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, an inter-governmental organisation based in the Netherlands, regarding the incident.
US forces on Thursday conducted a series of air strikes in Yemen against Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, the Pentagon said.
More than 20 strikes targeted AQAP militants, equipment and infrastructure in the Yemeni governorates of Abyan, Baida and Shabwa, Pentagon spokesman Navy Captain Jeff Davis said in a statement.
The strikes were conducted in partnership with the government of Yemen, and were coordinated with President (Abedrabbo Mansour) Hadi.
The strikes come barely a month after a controversial American commando raid against the jihadists that left multiple civilians dead and killed a US Navy SEAL.
A US official told AFP that Thursdays strikes had been planned months ago and were unrelated to the botched raid, which the White House has repeatedly claimed was a success that yielded crucial intelligence.
The raid was valuable, but the strikes were not directly related to it, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Davis said the strikes targeted militants, equipment, infrastructure, heavy weapons systems and fighting positions.
The strikes will degrade the AQAPs ability to coordinate external terror attacks and limit their ability to use territory seized from the legitimate government of Yemen as a safe space for terror plotting, he said.
Pakistan has no plans to hand over Kulbhushan Jadhav, arrested on charges of espionage, to India and he will be prosecuted under the countrys laws, foreign policy chief Sartaj Aziz said on Friday.
Aziz, who was speaking in the Senate or upper house of Parliament on the issue of Jadhav, said the government is not considering any option to extradite Jadhav. An FIR had been registered against him, he said.
We have prepared an FIR and a case is in the process of registration to prosecute the Indian state actor for involvement in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan, he told the House, according to Pakistani media reports.
The Pakistan government has sent a list of questions on this matter to its Indian counterpart, he added.
Read| India, Pakistan exchange barbs over arrest of alleged spy Jadhav
Aziz, who is the advisor on foreign affairs to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, was responding to a question from lawmaker Talha Mehmood, who asked whether the government planned to give the same red carpet treatment to Jadhav which was given to CIA contractor Raymond Davis.
There is no such possibility, Aziz said.
Davis was arrested after he shot dead two men in Lahore in January 2011. He was freed and allowed to leave Pakistan about two months later after $2.4 million was paid as blood money to the families of the dead men.
Sartaz Aziz said the Pakistan government has sent a list of questions about Jadhav to India. (AFP)
Aziz also said it has never been said that there was any lack of evidence against Jadhav. Pakistan has shared a dossier with the UN Secretary General on Indias alleged involvement in the countrys internal affairs and in subversive and terrorist activities.
This dossier includes details about Kulbashan Jadhav and his activities, Aziz said. The government, he added, is examining the possibility of sharing the dossier with other countries and international organisations.
The dossier is not the only route to deal with the issue as the case for prosecuting Jadhav is being prepared, he said. This is a very delicate and sensitive issue and requires detailed preparations and home work as it relates to direct or indirect involvement of Indian state actor in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan, he added.
Opposition Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Aitzaz Ahsan said he had challenged Prime Minister Sharif to mention Jadhav in a speech and questioned if the premier had done this. Aziz replied: When the time is appropriate, the PM will speak about Kulbashan Jadhav.
Jadhav, a former Indian Navy officer, was arrested in Balochistan in March last year. Pakistani authorities claimed he had confessed he was working for the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) but this was rejected by India.
Pakistan boycotted a two-day meeting of the Saarc grouping on animal diseases held in New Delhi this week, apparently in response to a similar action by India last year.
The first Saarc Epidemiology Networking Forum meeting, held in the national capital on February 27-28, was attended by representatives of all member countries with the exception of Pakistan.
The epidemiology focal points from the 7 member states, except Pakistan, participated in the meeting, the department of animal husbandry, dairying and fisheries, which is under the agriculture ministry, said in an official statement.
The Saarc summit in September last year was cancelled after five member states, including India, decided against attending the meet.
The objective of this first meeting was primarily to operationalise a sustainable and functioning veterinary epidemiology network among the eight Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation) member states to build collaboration to achieve a more effective and efficient control of trans-boundary animal diseases, including zoonoses.
The meeting was jointly organised by the government of India, the Saarc Secretariat and FAO.
During the meeting, animal husbandry secretary Devendra Chaudhary emphasised on the economic upgradation of Saarc member states through control of TADs (Trans-boundary Animal Diseases) and suggested to make disease-free zones.
He highlighted the significance of harmonising the reporting systems of the member states of the Saarc.
Chaudhary also expressed Indias commitment towards strengthening this forum and building collaborations through joint R&D programmes and joint disease surveillance and control programmes.
In the meeting, it was decided to hold regular meetings using ICT tools to develop specific agenda and build further trust till the next physical interaction. The forum agreed to make India as Secretariat for the forum for one year till the next face-to-face meeting of the forum.
Senior Russian and Nato military chiefs on Friday held their first phone talks since ties between the two sides collapsed over the crisis in Ukraine, the defence ministry in Moscow said.
The chairman of the Nato Military Committee Petr Pavel called Russias chief of staff Valery Gerasimov to discuss the possible restarting of military coordination and avoiding clashes, a statement from the ministry said.
This is the first high-level military contact since the Nato council took the decision to freeze relations with Russia, it said.
The two sides exchanged opinions about current security issues, the prospects of reestablishing military cooperation and avoiding incidents.
Moscow said Gerasimov used the opportunity to complain about the significant increased military activity of the alliance near the Russian border.
Nato headquarters in Brussels confirmed the talks and said active military to military lines of communications are in the mutual interest of Nato and Russia and they remain open.
The two generals agreed that they would remain in contact, it said, without giving any details about what was discussed.
Nato is beefing up its presence in eastern European allies badly rattled by a more assertive Russia following the seizure of Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014.
Nato severed military contacts with Moscow over its meddling in Ukraine but diplomats and civilian leaders from the two sides have met.
The talks come as the new US administration under Donald Trump seeks to reassure Nato allies that it remains fully committed to the alliance despite pushing other members to spend more on defence.
Syrian troops backed by Russian jets completed the recapture of the historic city of Palmyra from the Islamic State group Thursday, the Kremlin and the army said, in another blow to the jihadists.
Bolstered by air strikes and ground troops from their ally Moscow, Syrian forces battled through the desert for weeks to reach Palmyra.
The oasis city has traded hands several times during Syrias six-year civil war and become a symbol of ISs wanton destruction of priceless cultural heritage in areas under its control.
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu informed President Vladimir Putin of Palmyras recapture, a Kremlin spokesman told news agencies in Moscow.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based monitoring group, said the jihadists had totally withdrawn from the desert city but not before mining several areas.
The Syrian army is still clearing neighbourhoods of mines and has not spread out into the whole city yet, said its director, Rami Abdel Rahman.
An army statement carried on state news agency SANA said its forces had regained control over Palmyra and surrounding territory after a series of successful military operations.
IS has suffered a string of setbacks since taking over swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria in 2014, and its two main strongholds of Mosul and Raqa both face assaults by forces backed by a US-led coalition.
The jihadists first seized Palmyra in May 2015 and began to systematically destroy and loot the UNESCO world heritage sites monuments and temples.
They were driven out in March 2016 but recaptured the city in December when the government was focused on seizing rebel-held east Aleppo.
Before IS first entered the city, Palmyra boasted temples, colonnaded alleys and elaborately decorated tombs that were among the best preserved classical monuments in the Middle East.
But many of the structures have been destroyed and much of the heritage looted for sale on the black market.
Moscows support has been key in the Syrian armys Palmyra push, and its warplanes continued to bombard IS positions inside and near the city on Thursday, the Observatory reported.
A decades-old ally of Damascus, Moscow launched an air campaign in September 2015 in support of President Bashar al-Assads forces.
After losing ground in the early years of the war, Assads regime has regained significant territory -- including by pushing rebel forces out of second city Aleppo last year -- thanks in large part to Russian support.
- Turkey threatens US allies -
On another battle front against IS, fighters of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced they would cede several villages to the government as part of a deal brokered by Russia to avoid conflict with Turkey.
Turkey launched a cross-border operation in late August that it said aimed to counter both IS and the SDF, which is dominated by Kurdish fighters that Ankara sees as terrorists.
The surprise announcement by the SDF marks the first time that US-supported fighters has offered to cede territory to Assads forces.
It said the territory to be handed over lay between the towns of Manbij and Al-Bab, which Turkish-backed fighters captured last week from IS, to create a buffer zone between them.
Ankara meanwhile renewed its threat to bomb Kurdish fighters unless they withdrew from Manbij, a former bastion of IS that is now under SDF control.
The Turkey-backed rebels launched their advance on Manbij on Wednesday, initially seizing two villages but losing them to the SDF by Thursday.
The Observatory said clashes were ongoing southwest of Manbij late Thursday.
The profusion of forces operating in Syria has muddled the battlefield and on Wednesday a US general said Russian warplanes had bombed SDF fighters mistakenly believing they were IS.
The Russian defence ministry denied carrying out the air strikes.
- Sputtering peace talks -
Russia on Thursday accused Syrias main opposition group, the High Negotiations Committee (HNC), of sabotaging sputtering UN-led Syrian peace talks in Geneva and questioned their ability to reach a deal.
The results of the first days of the intra-Syrian dialogues, as before, raise questions over the ability of the Syrian opposition representatives to reach a deal, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.
Moscow had earlier called for terrorism to be added to the agenda of the talks, which have so far focused on three topics: governance, the constitution, and elections.
But the HNC late Wednesday refused, having previously accused Assads regime of wanting to turn the focus to terrorism as a distraction from political questions.
Progress in the Geneva round must not be held hostage by the Riyadh platform, lead Syrian negotiator Bashar al-Jaafari told reporters, referring to the Saudi-backed HNC.
The Geneva talks, the fourth round of UN-sponsored negotiations in the war, are expected to end by the weekend, though no formal timeframe has been set.
President Donald Trump is praising his attorney general, Jeff Sessions, and accusing Democrats of conducting a witch hunt in their criticism of Sessions testimony about his contact with the Russian ambassador during the presidential campaign.
Jeff Sessions is an honest man. He did not say anything wrong. He could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not.... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 3, 2017
Trump says Democrats are trying to save face after losing the election, are overplaying their hand and have lost their grip on reality.
Sessions on Thursday recused himself from any investigation into Russian meddling in Americas 2016 presidential election. He acted after it was revealed that he twice spoke with the Russian ambassador during the campaign and failed to say so when pressed by Congress. Some Democrats are accusing him of lying and calling for him to step down.
Read more | US attorney general Jeff Sessions quits Trump campaign probe under pressure
However, Trump conceded that Sessions -- who failed to disclose recent contact with Russias ambassador to the United States during his confirmation hearing -- could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not intentional.
- Focus on Russian diplomat -
Trump has come under increasing pressure over Russias interference in the election and alleged contacts between his entourage and Moscow.
According to officials, US intelligence agencies and the Federal Bureau of Investigation continue to investigate just how and how much Moscow intruded into US politics, and whether that effort -- which US intelligence chiefs say was directed by President Vladimir Putin -- involved collusion with the Trump campaign.
Four congressional committees have opened probes into the issue, although Democrats fear that Republicans will seek to bury their investigations to protect Trumps young administration.
Two weeks ago, Trumps newly appointed national security advisor Michael Flynn was forced to resign amid controversy over his discussions with Kislyak in late December, when the Obama administration was hitting Moscow with retaliatory sanctions and expulsions for its election interference.
On Thursday, The New York Times reported that Flynn had also met the diplomat in Trump Tower in December, with Trump son-in-law and senior advisor Jared Kushner also in attendance.
While meetings between political campaigns and diplomats are generally common, on Thursday a Clinton spokesman said there were no meetings or calls between her team and any Russian official during the campaign.
- Sessions met Russian envoy twice -
Sessionss own meetings with the envoy took place much earlier, in July and September, just as accusations of Russian interference in the election were mounting, according to The Washington Post.
However, Sessions had told his confirmation hearing in January that he did not have communications with the Russians and did not know of any by other campaign staff.
Sessions on Thursday clarified that his denial referred to contacts made on behalf of the campaign. He said he met Kislyak in his capacity as a senator, and discussed mainly global politics with him.
Nevertheless, after reviewing ethics rules for his office, he said: I have decided to recuse myself from any existing or future investigations of any matters related in any way to the campaigns for president of the United States.
Speaking to Fox News Wednesday evening, he reiterated that he did not discuss the campaign with Kislyak.
When I campaigned for Trump, I was not involved with anything like that, he said. You can be sure.
- Democrats press independent probe -
Despite the swirling controversy, few hard facts are publicly available on what US investigators know and suspect about the contacts and about Russias alleged operation to disrupt the election last year.
The New York Times reported two weeks ago, citing US intelligence sources, that three Trump campaign staff had communicated with Russian intelligence officers over the past year.
The White House labeled that report false and has accused Democrats, the media and the intelligence community of a political effort to undermine the Trump administration.
Trumps White House has lobbied the FBI, reportedly the CIA and two Republicans who head committees leading investigations into Russias election meddling, to knock down media reports on the alleged links.
That added to Democrats worries that investigations could be tainted, and lawmakers were pressing for an independent counsel to be named to study the web of allegations about Trump and Russia free from political interference.
President Donald Trump declared total confidence in his attorney general Thursday in the face of mounting calls for his resignation over undisclosed contacts with Russia during the US election campaign.
Revelations that attorney general Jeff Sessions met twice last year with the US ambassador to Russia -- a direct contradiction of his Senate confirmation testimony -- appeared to come as a surprise to the White House.
Speaking to reporters aboard the new aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford, Trump said he wasnt aware of Sessions meetings with the Russian envoy, Sergey Kislyak.
But asked whether he retained confidence in Sessions, Trump responded: Total.
The revelations ignited calls by Democratic leaders for the attorney generals resignation, and the naming of a special prosecutor to investigate possible connections between Trumps entourage, Moscow, and Russian interference in last years election.
The fact that the attorney general, the top cop in our country, lied under oath to the American people is grounds for him to resign, Nancy Pelosi, the House minority leader, said. He has proved that he is unqualified and unfit to serve in that position of trust.
The Department of Justice should be above reproach, said senate minority leader Chuck Schumer. For the good of the country, attorney general Sessions should resign.
Even some prominent Republican lawmakers joined in calling for Sessions to recuse himself from Justice Department and FBI investigations into allegations of Russian election meddling and contacts with Trump campaign advisers.
AG Sessions should clarify his testimony and recuse himself, Jason Chaffetz, a member of the House Government Oversight Committee, tweeted.
But Trump said Sessions was probably truthful when he told the Senate January 10 that he did not have communications with the Russians.
And asked whether Sessions should recuse himself, Trump said, I dont think so.
Sessions denied any wrongdoing but told NBC News: I have said whenever its appropriate, I will recuse myself. Theres no doubt about that.
I have not met with any Russians at any time to discuss any political campaign, and those remarks are unbelievable to me and are false. And I dont have anything else to say about that.
House Speaker Paul Ryan said he saw no purpose in Sessions recusing himself unless he becomes a subject of investigation.
He insisted that no evidence has been presented so far that any Americans were involved in the campaign meddling by the Russians.
Dashed after-glow
Dashing administration hopes for a feel-good reboot after a chaotic start, the latest controversy erupted as the White House was basking in the after-glow of Trumps well-received speech to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday.
Trumps softer tone in the address was seen as a tactical retreat from the whirlwind of conflicts and controversies that unsettled his first 40 days in office.
The Washington Post revealed late Wednesday for the first time that Sessions met Kislyak in July and September, just as accusations of Russian interference in the election were mounting.
That directly contradicted Sessions statement during his Senate confirmation hearing January 10.
When asked about the Trump campaigns alleged contacts with the Russians, Sessions said, I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign and I didnt have -- did not have communications with the Russians, and Im unable to comment on it.
A White House official rejected the Post report as the latest attack against the Trump administration by partisan Democrats.
Sessions met with the ambassador in an official capacity as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, which is entirely consistent with his testimony.
In Moscow, the Kremlin said it was unaware of any specific meetings between Sessions and the Russian ambassador ahead of the US election, but that any such encounters would have been routine.
US President Donald Trumps son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner now finds himself in the spotlight for a 20-minute meeting with him. Attorney general Jeff Sessions met him twice during the course of 2016 and is in all sorts of trouble. And Michael Flynn lost his job as National Security Adviser for phone calls with him.
How could one man cause so much trouble for the US government? And in such a short span of time? And all that man Sergey Kislyak, the 66-year-old Russian ambassador to the United States has said in his defence is that he was only doing his job, what all diplomats do.
Indian diplomats have had similar meetings with Trump transition team officials and now with members of the administration, and could have easily done with a few more, but India is not Russia and India has not been accused by the US of meddling with the presidential election to help one of the nominees win.
Kushner, accompanied by Flynn, had a previously undisclosed meeting with Kislyak at Trump Tower in December to establish a line of communication with Russia, the White House has said while confirming reports of the meeting. Trump has repeatedly said he would like engage Russia to improve relations.
It was not known if Kushner, who is married to Trumps daughter Ivanka and is part of the presidents inner circle of officials, could face questions about impropriety similar to those that were raised about Sessions and Flynns interactions with Kislyak.
The crucial difference: Flynn and Sessions were less than forthcoming about their meetings while under scrutiny, and had even denied them altogether. The White House immediately confirmed Kushners meeting.
Sessions, meanwhile, facing a barrage of criticism for misleading a Senate committee conducting his confirmation hearing, announced on Thursday he was recusing himself from the FBI investigation of the Trump campaigns contacts with Russians. The FBI is part of the justice department and reports to Sessions. His troubles may be not be over yet as Democratic lawmakers are demanding his resignation or ouster.
Flynn was fired by Trump, who continues to still defend him, after it was revealed he had lied to vice-president Mike Pence about his phone calls with Kislyak, in which he discussed sanctions slapped against Russia by then president Barack Obama for alleged interference in the US elections.
Kislyak, a career diplomat who started out in the Soviet Union, has been Russias envoy to the US since 2008. But the US, or at least Washington DC, is getting to know him better for the troubles he seems to have caused the Trump administration. And the first reports about him tended to portray him as a shadowy spymaster, a wily recruiter to fit the narrative of him making backroom deals with some of the incoming administrations similarly disposed people. Flynn was a long-time officer and head of the Defense Intelligence Agency.
Moscow reacted with anger and exasperation. Holding CNN responsible for that mischaracterisation, foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said, according to the network, He was deputy minister of foreign affairs in Russia, who has communicated with American colleagues for decades in different fields, and CNN accused him of being a Russian spy...of recruiting? Oh my God!
The portly Kislyak, whom senior Democratic senator Dianne Feinstein said in an interview is a difficult figure to miss or forget meeting with, was deputy foreign minister before he was sent to Washington as ambassador. In the 1990s, he was deputy head of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics then foreign ministrys department of international scientific and technical cooperation. He also served in the departments of security affairs and disarmament, and the latter continues to be his speciality.
As a Ukrainian who decided to stay on in Russia after the break up of the USSR, Kislyak is considered somewhat of a traitor in Ukraine, which is at the heart of the resistance to Russian President Vladimir Putins apparent designs to recapture the lost glory associated with the Soviet Union that he saw collapse before his eyes as a member of the KGB, now called the FSB.
Kislyak has kept to himself through these controversies, refusing media requests for comments and interviews. But he did tell The Washington Post, which broke stories about Flynn and Sessionss Russia contacts, what he did - meeting officials of an incoming administration. Its something all diplomats do, he said. That was before reports surfaced of his contacts with Sessions and Kushner.
In the first project of its kind, Britains earth observation community is linking with Indian experts to assess the impact of climate change and the associated greenhouse gas emissions on agriculture in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
The project, funded by the UK-India Education and Research Initiative and the Department of Science and Technology, brings together experts from the University of Leicester and Indian Institute of Technology (Kanpur) to set up a new international research network.
The use of novel earth observation datasets used in the project is expected to provide a much better understanding of regional and long-term changes across the plains and how they impact agricultural yield.
The project links with researchers from the Centre for Climate and Landscape Research through the Leicester Institute for Space and Earth Observation and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology in Wallingford through the National Centre for Earth Observation Science.
The plains extends across northern India, connecting to Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal, and is region of large scientific and economic interest.
The projects context is the increasing agricultural production and industrialisation to meet the demands of a growing population, which means human-induced disturbances which threaten the natural ecosystem in this region.
Such changes have been observed to impact the quality of air and emissions of greenhouse gases and therefore the need to monitor land-use and the regional greenhouse gas budget is becoming critical, a release from the University of Leicester said.
In addition to these pressures, large climatic variations such as extreme changes in rainfall or temperature can also significantly impact crop productivity, food and water security in the future.
The project will focus on combining expert knowledge in Earth observation space sensors, highly accurate ground-based measurements with state-of-the-art models of the land surface to determine the climatic drivers of yield modulations and its relation to greenhouse gas emissions.
The project is led by Hartmut Boesch and Harjinder Sembhi in the United Kingdom and by Sachchidanand Tripathi of IIT (Kanpur) in India.
Boesch of the University of Leicester said: The Indo-Gangetic Plain is a very important region for the regional food supply and the use of earth observation data will give us novel means of studying the sensitivity of this area to environmental changes.
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Embattled US attorney general Jeff Sessions announced Thursday that he would recuse himself from any investigation into Donald Trumps election campaign, which faces intense scrutiny over contacts with Russia.
But after receiving a strong endorsement from Trump, Sessions did not bow to pressure to step down over charges he lied to Congress about his own meetings with the Russian ambassador before the election.
After reviewing ethics rules for his office, Sessions said, I have decided to recuse myself from any existing or future investigations of any matters related in any way to the campaigns for president of the United States.
When you evaluate the rules, I feel that I should not be involved in investigating a campaign I had a role in, he told a news conference in the US capital.
The move came as the White House struggled to tamp down fresh revelations of contacts by Trump associates with Russia that threaten to snowball into a full-blown crisis for the new administration.
Democrats are pressing for an independent investigation to study all sides of the controversy, from Russian meddling in the presidential race, to whether Trump campaign aides colluded with the Russian effort.
Earlier Thursday Sessions admitted that he had met Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak twice last year while he was still a US senator and actively supporting Trumps fight to win the White House.
Trump responded by declaring his total confidence in Sessions, while adding that he wasnt aware of the meetings between Sessions and Moscows envoy.
Multiple probes
The encounters came while US intelligence agencies were probing Moscows alleged operation to hack Democratic Party computers and release materials that would hurt the campaign of Trumps rival Hillary Clinton.
In January, Sessions told a Senate panel that he had no contacts with the Russians during the campaign.
Sessions clarified Thursday that his Senate confirmation hearing statement addressed whether there were any contacts with the Russians on behalf of and about the campaign.
He said he had mainly discussed international politics with Kislyak.
In retrospect, I should have slowed down and said, but I did meet one Russian official a couple times, that would be the ambassador.
Already, one member of Trumps top team -- short-lived national security adviser Mike Flynn -- has been forced to resign over controversy over his contacts with Kislyak.
The White House has rejected suggestions that Trump campaign aides colluded with Moscow to skew the election.
US intelligence agencies continue to probe the contacts, and although the Justice Department will not confirm it, both the White House and members of Congress have said the Federal Bureau of Investigation is examining the issue as well.
Meanwhile four congressional committees are investigating the issue. Fearing that Republicans and the White House could try to bury the matter, Democrats have called for an independent probe and were pushing for Sessions to step down.
New York City police are investigating a threatening note signed Muslim Slayer that was sent to a mosque.
Imam Ibrahim Yavas of the American Turkish Eyup (EYE-oop) Sultan Cultural Center in Brooklyn told police he got the letter Tuesday, mailed to his residence at the center.
The letter said the writer had a dirty little secret and fantasized about killing nonwhites, including the recipient.
The hate crimes task force is assigned to the case. No arrests have been made.
Read more | Two US mosques get hate notes calling for slaughter of Muslims
In a show of inter-faith unity, Muslim military veterans in the US have offered to guard Jewish sites amid a spike in bomb threats against Jewish centres and vandalism targeting the communitys cemeteries.
Many Muslim US military veterans have tweeted their support for Jewish people in the wake of threats and vandalism targeted at the community.
In a tweet, a former Muslim marine, Tayyib Rashid, pledged, If your synagogue or Jewish cemetery needs someone to stand guard, count me in. Islam requires it.
Rashid, known by his Twitter handle @MuslimMarine, said in his Periscope video that, Ive seen a tremendous outpouring of love and support from all Americans, from Muslims, from my fellow Jewish Americans, from Christians, from atheists, from everyone.
His tweet has gone viral and has prompted other American Muslims to offer their support to the Jewish community.
Another Muslim veteran tweeted, Im a Muslim Veteran in Arizona and will readily stand guard at any Jewish Synagogue or Cemetery at any hour. #WeAreOne.
Houston area Jewish community, I spent ten years protecting our country and I will gladly protect Jewish places of worship if you need, another Muslim veteran said.
However, it was not just Muslim veterans tweeting support, other Muslims joined in too.
Emmy Award-winning TV Broadcaster Momin Bhatti took to social media to pledge support in his call to protect Jewish sites.
Im a Muslim in #Harrisburg. If your synagogue or community centre needs someone 2 stand guard, I will stand guard for you. Islam requires it, he said.
This show of solidarity follows an online campaign called Muslims Unite to Repair Jewish Cemetery, which has raised more than USD 115,000 to repair the gravestones toppled over at the Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in the St. Louis suburb of University City, Missouri, Fox News reported.
Earlier this week, dozens of volunteers from various faiths helped clean up the Mount Carmel Cemetery in Philadelphia, which was vandalised over the weekend.
President Donald Trump has condemned these types of attacks.
We are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all of its very ugly forms, he had said.
There has also been a surge of bomb threats against synagogues, Jewish centres and schools around the US.
This week alone, there were threats made against numerous Jewish centres and at least one school in California, Washington, Nevada and Arizona, The Huffington Post reported.
The FBI and the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division are probing the threats.
Britains secret intelligence service is using a movie-theater ad in its push for more agents.
The goal is to attract more women and ethnic minorities into the ranks of agents made famous by the fictional spy James Bond.
The 30-second spot marks the first time MI6 has advertised in cinemas.
Officials say they are seeking to promote more diversity in the service.
Alex Younger, head of the agency also known as MI6, told the Guardian newspaper he wanted the agency to reach communities who were selecting themselves out.
We have to go out and ask these people to join us, said Younger, who rarely makes public comments, in the interview published on Thursday.
I want everyone to know that, regardless of background, if you have the skills we need and share our values, there is a future for you in MI6.
In its push to take its numbers to 3,500, the largest in its history, the spy agency is launching a recruitment campaign next week, the Guardian said.
MI6 spy agency will also go back to its old, informal tap on the shoulder method of hiring new agents.
That was the only way of recruiting people, a tap on the shoulder. That was the way I was recruited, Younger said.
We have to go to people that would not have thought of being recruited to MI6. We have to make a conscious effort. We need to reflect the society we live in.
In 2015, Britain announced it would recruit another 1,900 spies to deal with the threat posed by Islamist militants.
MI6, however, said it battled with the enduring image that its officers were all like its greatest fictional agent James Bond, currently portrayed by actor Daniel Craig.
There is a perception out there that we want Daniel Craig, or Daniel Craig on steroids. He would not get into MI6, said the agencys female head of recruitment, who like all its agents apart from Younger is anonymous.
We need to get that message across because it is so embedded, and we have to get around that. They may well be able to use a revolver. But that is not really what we are looking for.
The Guardian said Younger would not be drawn on specific dangers Britain faced, but had warned the agency needed to be upstream of the threats.
The terrorist threat has grown but that has not resulted in a diminution of threats posed by hostile states, he said. They have ways of posing a threat to us that they did not have before.
The days of the rustler are ended, said John Kinney, whose failure to pay import duties played a hand in his downfall.
Prohibition-era crime boss Al Capone could have learned a valuable lesson from 19th- century boss rustler John Kinney: Be sure to pay the taxman. Capone was famously convicted in 1931 not for illegal bootlegging or murder but for failure to file his tax returns. Riding as high in the American Southwest as Capone would in Chicago a half-century later, Kinney was on the verge of escaping justice when federal Treasury agents, investigating his failure to pay import duties on smuggled cattle, alerted New Mexico Territorys militia to the rustler kings whereabouts. Instead of the high life he was planning to enjoy, Kinney would spend three years in the slammer.
Kinney was a young man in a hurry. He was but 22 when he first exhibited a taste for mayhem, just 24 when he displayed a talent for violence on a scale surpassing his peers, perhaps only 27 when he turned his organizational skills to his own benefit rather than others. He was but 30 when his misdeeds caught up with him.
John Kinneys place and date of birth are uncertain, but family tradition, prison records and Kinneys own statements suggest he was born in Massachusetts sometime in 1853. His widowed mother moved the family to Chicago, and there the teenage Kinney enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1868.
The Army marched Kinney through much of the West during his five-year tour. After his discharge, he chose to make his mark in New Mexico Territory. There he threw in with a bunch of lawless and homicidal desperadoes that included such career criminals as Jessie Evans, Jim McDaniels and Charles Ray (aka Pony Diehl) and quickly learned the trade of rustler. Sooninevitablythey and other criminals like them became infamous members of what historian Frederick Nolan has called the Chain Gang, a small army of interlinked bands of rustlers working from the Great Plains to California and on both sides of the Mexican border.
Reckless men like these soon found themselves sharing another profession. Repeatedly during the decade after Kinneys arrival in the American Southwest, corrupt movers and shakers discovered a need for his type. Here the law too often wilted before the power tucked in scabbards and holsters. Southeast New Mexico Territory warehoused scores of young men with testosterone to burn. Hardscrabble farmers, ranchers squatting on watered land, merchants one mistake away from dashed dreams and saddlers with no particular purpose in life provided the muscle that unscrupulous authorities and monopolistic businessmen needed to lock out their would-be replacements.
Between 1877 and 1882 any borderlands county sheriff from El Paso, Texas, to Lincoln, New Mexico Territory, to Tombstone, Arizona Territoryneeding a small army of gunmen to enforce order could hire such men as killers. What set John Kinney apart from his equally lawless friends were his leadership and organizational skills. More than once it was Kinney who got the assignment to commit under-color-of-law mayhem on a scale useful to corrupt politicians up and down the Rio Grande.
His first opportunity came in December 1877 during the El Paso Salt War. Kinney was in Silver City, New Mexico Territory, when El Paso County Sheriff Charles Kerber sent him an urgent telegram asking him to raise volunteers to rescue the Texas Ranger detachment besieged in San Elizario, Texas. Within the day Kinney raised a posse of 25 men and rode east. He picked up more men in Mesilla, New Mexico Territory, including Jessie Evans. Grant County Deputy Sheriff Dangerous Dan Tucker was ostensibly in charge of the Silver City men, but the worst of the bunch, the ones who raped and plundered in El Paso, were identified as Kinney men. They were a gang with badges, perhaps the first Southwest border area criminals to be sworn in on a large scale to fight a local war. The activities of the Kinney gang in the Rio Grande Valley established a precedent for future wars in places as widespread as Lincoln and Tombstone.
Kinney stayed on in El Paso, dually occupied as a saloonkeeper and Kerbers deputy sheriff, until he abruptly departed for Lincoln County. The trigger, according to rumor and tradition, was a summons from District Attorney William Rynerson to fight in the Lincoln County War. Kinney and his Rio Grande posse took the side of the Lawrence MurphyJames Dolan House, the business monopoly supported by corrupt politicians of the Santa Fe Ring. The Kinney gangs dramatic gallop into Lincoln on the first day of the climactic five-day battle (July 15 19, 1878) turned a developing victory by Alexander McSweens Regulators into a standoff, broken only by the Armys intervention.
The war petered out following the Lincoln fight. Billy the Kid and many other unemployed hard cases turned to hit-and-run thievery, but Kinney had grander ideas. He and his followers returned to El Paso, where they attempted to hijack the November 1878 elections and secure virtual control of county government. Kinney and ally Charles Kerber, the unpopular incumbent sheriff, expected little opposition from the only other armed force in town. The Texas Rangers charged with keeping the election honest had racked up a sorry record since their surrender to the insurgent Tejano militia in the El Paso Salt War. But Sergeant Marcus Ludwick was in charge that day. He and 10 Rangers backed down Kinneys men, granting El Paso its first honest election since the end of the Civil War.
Kinney returned to New Mexico Territory. During the next few years he cleared up old criminal charges, briefly pinned on another deputys badge to escort the Kid from the jail in Mesilla to the one in Lincoln and may have found time to scout for the Army in the Victorio campaign. But hiring out his services to others was losing its attraction. Kinneys expansive imagination soon conjured up designs much more lucrative than protecting someone elses empire.
In March 1879 Kinney opened up a butcher shop in Mesilla, the harbinger of a much larger scheme already germinating in his mind. Under the radar he began constructing the early Southwests most organized criminal enterprise. His operations surpassed anything ever witnessed in neighboring Arizona Territory. There rustling was largely the work of the so-called Cowboys, small gangs with ever-changing lineups bandits acting as independent contractors, hiring themselves out like Caribbean pirates for each raiding voyage.
Kinney operated on a wholly different scale, using scores of rustlers who routed both livestock and profits to just one man Kinney himself. His operations ranged from Socorro, New Mexico Territory, south to the Mexican state of Chihuahua, and from El Paso west toward Silver City and down into Sonora, Mexico. While other rustlers worked closely with cooperative butchers to quickly eliminate evidence of their crimes, Kinney was savvy and systematic enough to eliminate the middleman whenever he could. His ranch just south of Rincon, New Mexico Territory, locally dubbed Kinneyville, included a slaughterhouse and dressing station. This gave Kinney the flexibility to ship either beeves or choice cuts by rail to wherever he could find buyers. With no middleman taking a cut of his profits, Kinney made the most of an operation that reportedly stole thousands of horses and cattle from honest ranchers. Eventually, people began to talk, and the press took notice. The Santa Fe New Mexican took to calling Kinney King of the Rustlers.
Threats of violence and violence itself were tools of Kinneys trade. Like any effective crime boss, he, as author Nolan put it, played the role of holy terror to the hilt. Fear of crossing the rustler boss and his private army rendered the various lawmen in his kingdom impotent, though friendship with Kinney, rather than fear, seems to have motivated Grant County Sheriff Harvey Whitehill. The sheriffs cozy support of the rustler, even after Kinneys kingdom fell apart, is otherwise unfathomable.
As 1883 opened, reported thefts of livestock skyrocketed. The New Mexican claimed Kinneys men rustled an estimated 10,000 head in January alone. The number was doubtlessly exaggerated. When later arrested, Kinney henchman Margarito Sierra confessed to knowledge of 17 separate thefts of 171 horses, cattle and oxen over six months. At that rate Kinneys men would have had to carry out 1,000 thefts in January to meet the New Mexicans estimate. No matter how dubious the figures, however, other reports indicated Kinneys wife and brother were banking huge sums for him in El Paso.
Anger and frustration over mounting thefts of livestock convinced Territorial Governor Lionel A. Sheldon it was time to eradicate Kinneys operation. Short of a presidential finding of insurrection, the U.S. Army was forbidden by the 1878 Posse Comitatus Law from taking out such criminals. Fortunately, Sheldon had another force at hand: New Mexicos volunteer militia. On February 12, 1883, he ordered the militias commander, Major Albert Jennings Fountain, to take the field and treat the rustlers as public enemies.
Throughout his life as a soldier, lawyer, crusading newspaperman and rough-and-tumble politician, 44-year-old Fountains accomplishments were many. Sheldons orders handed him a fresh opportunity for further glory, this time against an old adversary, John Kinney. Fountain quickly got to work, putting three companies into action in a series of sweeps up and down the Rio Grande Valley and west into Lake Valley. So effective were these measures that by the end of March the militia had broken the back of largescale organized rustling in the territory. And among the first to fall prey to Governor Sheldons offensive was Kinney himself.
The rustler king fled west across New Mexico Territory to escape capture, but not even Arizona Territory was a safe haven. On March 7, 1883, the Shakespeare Guards under Captain James F. Black apprehended the fugitive. Kinney and brother Tom were taken completely by surprise on the Gila River, five miles into Arizona Territory, beyond present-day Duncan. Kinneys wife, Juana, was also present, which perhaps explains why Kinney offered no real resistance when confronted by Captain Blacks force. The circumstances that led Black to Kinneys camp have never been fully explained. Historian Philip J. Rasch stated, Sheldon learned that Kinney himself was on the Gila and ordered Black to capture him at any hazard.
Although Rasch did not identify the source of Sheldons information, Sheriff Whitehills biographer, Bob Alexander, provides the added detail that Frank Cartwright, superintendent of the Sierra Grande Co. at Lake Valley, one way or the other learned of John Kinneys visit and promptly telegraphed Fountain, who at the time had not a precious clue as to the slippery fugitives whereabouts. By the time Blacks Shakespeare Guards reached Silver City, they began cutting for meaningful sign west of town. Obviously, then, they knew where to hunt, but how they knew has been until now a mystery.
A newly discovered report to Secretary of the Treasury Charles J. Folger by acting Special Agent William Penn Howland of the U.S. Customs Service describes how federal agents located John Kinney on the Gila and assisted in organizing the columns necessary to surround the rustler and prevent his escape.
Howlands involvement in the search for Kinney began on Thursday, March 1, in Benson, Arizona Territory, where he and U.S. Customs Collector Abner Tibbets met to investigate the smuggling of cattle from Sonora. They determined that rustlers had brought a smuggled herd across the border, tracing the cattle to Lordsburg, New Mexico Territory, and from there north to the Gila River. Tibbets dispatched a mounted inspector named Wilson, who knew the country well, to find the herd. What Wilson and other unidentified scouts found on the Gila was a party under Kinney reportedly in possession of several hundred animals. Wilson needed reinforcements.
Wilson got word to Howland at Lordsburg. The special agent immediately wired Kinneys whereabouts to Tibbets, who was already at El Paso. Tibbets lost no time in telegraphing Governor Sheldon before heading for Lordsburg, reaching town on Sunday, March 4. A day was lost as Tibbets, Howland and Deputy U.S. Marshal S.L. Sanders waited for the governors men to arrive. At last, on Monday, Captain Black, a saloonkeeper by trade, and 17 other men of the Shakespeare Guards arrived on Sheldons orders. That night they started with Sanders for the point on the Gila where Wilson had spotted Kinney.
Meanwhile, Howland and Wilson rode all night across the Burro Mountains to Silver City, arriving there at 4 a.m. on March 6. They hoped to raise a force in town but could not find men they could trust. As Howland reported, Men ordered out promiscuously would be worse than none as nine-tenths of them would be in league with Kinney and would betray and frustrate any plan. Silver Citys leading men offered no help. All were said to be in mortal fear of Kinney and his gang. The customs men split up. Wilson rode down the Gila to meet Deputy Sanders and Captain Black. Howland rode to Fort Bayard to plead for the Armys help. Colonel William Bedford Royal was apologetic, but he could not bring his 4th Cavalry into play without orders from Brig. Gen. Ranald S. MacKenzie, the department commander at Santa Fe.
Sanders and Black had also ridden all night after leaving Lordsburg. As they approached the Gila, the deputy marshal led one party in a long detour into Arizona Territory, passing through the Peloncillo Mountains to Whitlocks Cienega, then turning north and east, hitting the Gila at a point beyond where Kinney was expected. The other party, led by Captain Black, took a more direct path but split up, with half going down each bank of the river.
On the morning of Wednesday, March 7, Kinneys party relaxed at Ash Springs, five miles inside Arizona Territory, not far from Yorks Ranch, to water the horses and mules. The water hole lay in a hollow with high rocks on either side, too narrow for cattle, so Kinney pushed them downriver to an open pasture. For the unwary traveler the hollow was also a natural ambush site, as the late George York discovered during the Apache outbreak 17 months earlier. Kinney, brother Tom, wife Juana and their companions were just breaking camp at about 8 a.m. when Blacks Shakespeares Guards took them by surprise. At almost the same moment Sanders enveloping party, weary from their 30-mile march through Arizona Territory, appeared from the west, closing the trap. Kinney surrendered without a struggle. Instead, he tried to talk his way out, but nobody, not even Harvey Whitehill, who some reports placed at the scene, was buying what Kinney had to sell.
The militiamen escorted Kinneys party, along with three-dozen horses and mules, back to Lordsburg. There the rustler king was thrown unceremoniously into a sidetracked boxcar to await the arrival of A.J. Fountain and transportation to Las Cruces for trial.
Special Agent Howland begged his superiors for an Army escort to Arizona to gather up Kinneys great number of smuggled stolen cattle on the Gila and its canons. Howland also urged the Treasury secretary to remain on the offensive. With Kinney and his lieutenants captured or killed, continued pressure, according to Nolan, would so crush the combination of CowBoys and desperadoes that [they] would hardly rally again this summer, and if so, feebly, as the great combination which now extends from the Pecos River in Texas to Arizona would be without leaders for a time at least.
Kinney faced 17 separate indictments for larceny and buying stolen cattle, handed down by the grand jury of New Mexicos 3rd Judicial District. Fountain, now the governments attorney, concentrated on prosecuting the territorys best case, a single charge of stealing 16 beeves. Fountain did the job in two days, and on April 13, 1883, Kinneys jury took just eight minutes to convict the surprised crime boss.
Fountain escorted Kinney to prison at Leavenworth, Kan. As the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe train carrying the deposed king, eight other prisoners and Fountains guards rolled into Kansas City on May 2, an Illustrated Police News reporter was there to greet them. The journalist reported that Kinney expressed himself freely and did not appear to worry over his fate. Kinney told the reporter: The days of the Rustler are ended anyway in New Mexico. All his property have [sic] been swept away, and he might as well be in Leavenworth prison as out of it without money.
When his conviction was reversed less than three years later, he went home for a retrial that never took place. From this point on, says author Nolan, Kinney sinned no more. He may have served in Cuba during the Spanish American War as a civilian scout and quartermaster, although the Army rejected his pension claims. He owned a couple of mines and lived comfortablyperhaps on his ill-gotten savings accounts in El Paso.
By the time John Kinney died of Brights disease at age 66 on August 25, 1919, he had thoroughly rewritten his life story. His obituary in the Prescott Journal-Miner proclaimed that he was known in the Southwest as one of the most daring and courageous in the annals of men who were sacrificing and unflinching to preserve law and order. In death, if not life, he became one of the most generous and best loved men ever to grace the early life of the thrilling days of the border. Not bad for the Southwests first crime boss.
The Pima County Public Library [www.library.pima.gov] in Tucson named Salt Warriors: Insurgency on the Rio Grande, by Paul Cool [www .paulcoolbooks.com], a Southwest Book of the Year. For further reading: The Lincoln County War: A Documentary History, by Frederick Nolan, and Sheriff Harvey Whitehill: Silver City Stalwart, by Bob Alexander.
Originally published in the April 2014 issue of Wild West. To subscribe, click here.
Pippa Middleton's wedding is all set to be held in May and along with the high profile guests, it also includes her elder sister, Kate Middleton and Prince William along with their kids Prince George and Princess Charlotte; and also Prince Harry who might have his lady love, Meghan Markle by his side at the wedding.
According to reports The Sun, to avoid all the limelight on her, Kate Middleton has volunteered to act at the official nanny at Pippa Middleton wedding. She wants her little sister to be in the limelight at her wedding and this motivated her to volunteer. So, along with her kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, the Duchess of Cambridge will also be babysitting the other kids.
Moreover, to ensure a smooth day for the bride, Pippa Middleton, Kate Middleton's kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte will also not be making an appearance as the page boy and the flower girl. The Duchess has said that they are too young to play the role.
In other news, it is being suggested that since Prince Harry and Pippa Middleton are close friends, she has also invited him to the wedding along with his girlfriend. So, it is speculated that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be attending the event together and it will also be their first public appearance, Mirror reported. Considering that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are pretty serious about their relationship, it gives him the perfect opportunity to declare to the world that they are together.
Moreover, rumors are rife that even before Pippa Middleton's wedding, Prince Harry may propose the Suits actress. If this so happens, it goes without saying that the entire spotlight will be on Meghan Markle and not the bride, Pippa Middleton.
Well, it remains to be seen how things take shape and who get the spotlight at Pippa Middleton and James Matthews wedding in May.
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Fans of Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson have been looking forward to their reunion in the next "Twilight" movie and now Stewart has said that she would be the first to read "Twilight" book if Stephanie Meyer comes up with one.
There are millions of fans who want Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson to reprise their "Twilight" characters Bella and Swan and though the stars have not said anything, Stewart did express interest in another book, Metro claimed. When asked if she would like to return to the "Twilight" set, the 26-year-old actress replied that the "Twilight" team kind of finished the series as they made five movies on it and therefore, she thinks they kind of did justice to it.
However, another reply was little different. When asked if she would be tempted to return if there was another book, she said that she would definitely be the first to read it. Does that mean she would be also taking a look at her character? It could be and therefore, there is a section of fans that feels Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson's reunion is a possibility.
Speaking of Robert Pattinson, the 30-year-old-actor was seen with his fiancee FKA Twigs at the recent European premiere of his movie "Lost city of Z" in London. According to E! News, the couple walked the red carpet hand in hand and looked completely besotted with each other, thereby, dousing all the stories that had been predicting their split for about a year.
Notably, rumors of the duo's breakup had been rife for some time and it was also said that Kristen Stewart is the reason behind their split. However, all of that stands quashed as FKA Twigs is still with the "Twilight" actor and as far as Kristen Stewart is concerned, she is said to be seeing model Stella Maxwell. So, it may not be unlikely if the ex-lovers bury their hatchet and star in a successful franchise like "Twilight" once again.
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Sweden has decided to reintroduce military conscription, the Scandinavian country is worried because of Russia. The decision means that 4,000 men and women will be called up for service from 1 January 2018, who will be selected among 13,000 young people born in 1999. Sweden brings back conscription to increase security.
In September, a Swedish garrison was restored to Gotland, a big island between the Swedish mainland and the three former Soviet Baltic states. Ms Nyh Radebo stated the return to conscription was prompted by the security changes.
She added that the Russian annexation of Crimea, the conflict in Ukraine and the increased military activity in the neighbourhood are some of the reasons. The BBC reports that the 13,000 who undergo the military tests will be a mixture of conscripts and volunteers.
Impact on regional security
Ms Nyh Radebo stated that 70% of parliament is behind the decision to increase the military and co-operation with the countries, the closest co-operation is with Finland. Sweden and Finland do not belong to Nato, but co-operate closely with the alliance. The Swedish recruitment system will be modelled on Norway's.
A Swedish government report on defence priorities states that recruitment of reserve squad leaders, soldiers and sailors has proved to be problematic. According to a 2015 research paper by Barbara Kunz of the IFRI Security Studies Center, Sweden has about 52,000 full-time military personnel.
Military service in other countries
France and the UK made their armed forces fully professional, France in 2001 and the UK in 1963. Germany suspended conscription in 2011, but there is a debate about reintroducing some type of national service. Turkey has conscription for all men over the age of 20, Greece and Cyprus also have conscription.
Denmark, Norway and Finland have limited conscription, but their forces are overwhelmingly professional. Estonia and Lithuania have similar recruitment policies. In Russia, all men aged 18-27 have to spend a year in the military.
Ukraine brought back conscription in 2014 because of Russia. In Switzerland, men have to serve periods in the armed forces from 19 to 34 years, and keep their equipment at home.
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T oday is the big reveal for a second collection at Habitat by fashion designer Henry Holland, crashing on to duvets, rugs, cushions and a chair. He calls it gypsy Bohemia, a mash-up of florals, gingham and embroidery, triggered by archive photos of the Roma of Eastern Europe.
And take a sneaky peak at an OTT suite at the Hoxton Holborn hotel kitted out with Henry Holland all this month.
Londons pattern people are in overdrive, colour bombing the capital with their brilliant hues, palm prints and authentic folk motifs from around the world.
Maoming collection fabrics, from 98.40 to 312 a metre at Pierre Frey, Chelsea Harbour
The Paris team of Pierre Frey go posh ethnic (in London at Chelsea Harbour) paying tribute to the Miao people shielded by the Moon mountains in south west China. Here is a perfect pile of ikats, batiks, pleats and embroideries. And Manuel Canovas, another Paris brand, has sent us a fresh clutch of equally posh-ethnic cloths. No one clashes colours quite so well (at Colefax and Fowler, SW3, and Chelsea Harbour, SW6).
Also in the Harbour, the stunning Africalia edit by Spaniards Gaston y Daniela (at Abbott & Boyd). And round the corner in Worlds End Studios, Justin Van Breda has put pattern on to cabinets (a big trend) a vivid leafy Fromental silk, reminiscent of African wax resists and carefully coated it in lacquer.
Creative leader Karin Gustavsson with vibrant fabrics from the limited-edition Jassa collection at IKEA
Affordable folk brights come in a limited edition this month at Ikea, where Dutch maverick Piet Hein Eek and his team have delved deep into the batiks of Indonesia, to make fabrics, handmade furniture and splattered ceramics. You can get a hefty hank of cloth for 12 enough for a bedspread or a small pair of curtains. And the chunky square floor cushions are great to cheer up that rented flat.
Thai brand Jim Thompson looks to China with Leo de Janeiro cloths to celebrate the famous lion dance in happy hues, with a nod to carnivals everywhere.
Back home, in a south London ethnic chic pioneer Sarah Campbell, (of famous fabric duo Collier Campbell) says.We always looked around the world for inspiration. Shes re-coloured an on-trend 80s classic, Bedouin Stripe, as a cushion, and as fabric by the metre. The 70s and early 80s were the great times for colour, she says - think Habitat green trolleys and our Bauhaus print for Liberty. But minimalism was the death knell. Now colour is back, bringing joy and surprise . And her tip for an instant colour fix? Take a blue jug, fill it with marigolds, and prop up a postcard by Matisse.
Simple colour pops can quickly lift a room .Its so easy to make a bright table with runner, napkins, and a few plates. Good cheap homeware is new in H&M in Oxford Street and Westfield. Also try Homesense expanding rapidly with 33 shops nationwide, including at Staples Corner and Watford.
Catch Dutch stores Hema when next at Victoria or Euston stations. And the inimitable Danish Tiger is now on most London High Streets, and on Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road, W1; uk.flyingtiger.com.
Moving up market, try a brightly coloured kettle, mixer or toaster, a table lamp, or silk shade. Do a chair in a sophisticated plain velvet (so of the moment) - that lustrous pile will add an extra glow.
The Varese edit at Designers Guild is an industry staple - 71 colours with six shades of green alone , You can even have a coloured tap in rainbow hues from a new Grohe range, and bright coloured cookers are just launched by Smeg.
Paint is the quick fix and a big uplift of spirits. Marianne Shillingford, Dulux colour consultant has the science: shocking pink, lime, emerald and citron pack a punch because they have a high LRV (light reflective value) and strong chroma (colour intensity).
T RAUMATA AT SOTHEBYS
Weve always enjoyed Sothebys S|2 space which puts on museum-quality exhibitions with free entry, behind the Mayfair auction house.
Its a direct selling space, so theres no bidding for the artworks, and theres currently a terrific show called Traumata, celebrating two of the greatest artists of their generation the late Louise Bourgeois and Yayoi Kusama.
Both women emerged on to the famously macho Fifties NY art scene, the era of abstract expressionism, both laid bare their own psychological traumas, which continue to inspire artists.
Kusama has voluntarily lived in a psychiatric facility for 40 years but still journeys to her studio to continue her lifes work. Bourgeoiss Spider, 1994, pictured above, is among works on show.
*Traumata runs at Sothebys until April 13.
FIND YOUR EDEN IN THE CITY
How do we feel a city? What do we see and hear as we go about our lives?
Laura Oldfield Ford is interested in how people negotiate and experience the city space. She has created Alpha, Isis, Eden, an installation and audio work, pictured, at The Showroom, based on walks in the gallerys Edgware Road location, creating layers of personal and public experience and history.
This Saturday from 3.30pm-8pm theres a free discussion session attached to the show with artists, writers and activists participating in a listening event, with a drinks/DJ set towards the end.
*Alpha, Isis, Eden, at The Showroom until March 18. Free entry. Booking essential.
CLOSE TO THE EDGE WITH MAGGI
Maggi Hambling, pictured, is one of Britains most important artists. Edge, her eighth solo exhibition with the Marlborough Gallery, opens tomorrow.
The title gives a clue. Hambling has been quoted as saying: We are living on the edge all of the time. She wants us to consider the fragility of existence, both ours and that of the planet.
Hambling created the first public monument to Oscar Wilde, the green granite sarcophagus opposite Charing Cross station, with its quote from Lady Windermeres Fan: We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
*Maggi Hambling: Edge, at the Marlborough Gallery, March 2-April 13.
THE PAPER AVIARY: TWEETING THE SECRETS OF ST JAMESS MARKET
We knew about the three fashionable restaurants in St Jamess Market, and those hot Danish chefs whove launched Ole & Steen, the 2017 bakery of choice. But we didnt know about The Paper Aviary, a shop window installation in the new St Jamess Market Pavilion.
Argentine studio Guardabosques, working with design specialists dn&co, created paper birds out of traditional menswear patterns. The birds chirrup and tweet through speakers as you pass.
Its a homage to nearby Birdcage Walk where Charles II installed a birdcage full of exotic species.
Also at St Jamess Market, Smeg is soon to open a three-floor flagship store. Check out its Dolce & Gabbana-designed fridges.
*The Paper Aviary, at St Jamess Market, until May. Free.
AN ARCHITECTURAL DETECTIVE IN KINGS CROSS
If you are visiting Borough Market, take a detour to the Art Bermondsey Project Space for Minnie Weiszs new show, Time Present Time Future.
Weisz sister of actress Rachel has a studio in Kings Cross and for the past 15 years has been photographing abandoned buildings in the area.
Hidden chapel: from Minnie Weiszs new show, Time Present Time Future
She revisits the spaces before and during their development, and the photos have an ethereal, dreamlike quality.
Art Bermondsey Project Space is a not-for-profit platform. The artists sell directly to the viewer, and its a great place to find art, for first-time buyers in particular.
*Until March 12, Tuesday-Saturday 11am- 6pm, at Art Bermondsey Project Space.
E xquisite lace-paper Valentines and embossed playing cards used to be made at a Victorian printworks in Hoxton but the factory has now made way for Hoxton Press, two hexagonal towers with 198 apartments that are a fitting tribute to the site's craftworking origins.
Clad in neat Belgian bricks, the towers' robust yet elegant design is the work of celebrated architect David Chipperfield, and these homes are among London's best examples of space-efficient apartment blocks.
Each tower incorporates a rhythmic pattern of deep-and-wide recessed, double-aspect balconies. These highly useable, year-round spaces, accessed by a wall of sliding glass, provide fresh air and protection from the elements. Inside, the studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom flats have more space and higher ceilings than required by the Mayor's London Plan regulations. Pocket doors slide back into the wall cavity, while there is cleverly concealed storage space.
Underfloor heating means walls are radiator free, and with oak floors throughout, white lacquered kitchens and shadow-gap skirting boards, the interiors are clean-cut, contemporary and comfortable.
Moreover, being 16 and 20 storeys high, the towers respect the area's historic architectural context next to Regent's Canal and are far less obtrusive than the shiny steel-and-glass skyscrapers along nearby City Road. The development overlooks Shoreditch Park and Gainsborough Studios, an arty enclave of flats and workspaces.
Firms of architects, designers and digital start-ups are settling into the neighbourhood's quiet backstreets, while there is a sprinkling of gastropubs, one with a noted theatre. The marketing suite across the road from the towers cost 1.5 million to build and eventually will be converted into a local primary school. Prices at Hoxton Press start from 615,000. Call Anthology on 020 3308 9813.
News, events, history, and other mid-week tidbits.
Tuesday, October 25, 4:30 7 p.m.
Orr Area EMS Open House
Brats and burgers will be served. Event includes a new ambulance tour and blood pressure screenings. For more info: 218-780-3798.
Orr Fire Hall
4540 Lake St., Orr
Tuesday, October 25, 12 6 p.m.
Essentia Health Job Fair
Talent recruiters and department managers will be on-site at Essentia Health-Virginia. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to attendnurses, nursing and clinical assistants, surgery technicians, radiology technicians, respiratory therapists, human resource professionals, and those interested in environmental services or nutrition services. Essentia staff will greet candidates, conduct an initial screening and filter them to appropriate hiring managers for interviews. Select candidates will be verbally offered a position before leaving. Candidates are asked to bring a resume, but its not required. Attire is business casual. For more info: www.essentiacareers.org.
901 9th St. N., Virginia
Maybe Ryan Zinke wanted to make sure everyone knew that he was from Montana.
Zinke is the new Secretary of the Interior and today, March 2, was his first day on the job. Surrounded by the suits and ties of Washington, D.C., he showed up on horseback, outfitted in jeans and a cowboy hat.
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Ryan Zinke rode a horse to work on his first day as Secretary of the Interior pic.twitter.com/NFigUPREEK Joe Perticone (@JoePerticone) March 2, 2017
Honored to stand with the brave officers of @USParkPolice these professionals put their lives on the line for us pic.twitter.com/QbtojcfvLV Secretary Ryan Zinke (@SecretaryZinke) March 2, 2017
The Billings Gazette reports that the horse Secretary Zinke rode in on is a 17-year-old, 17-hand Irish Sport Horse named Tonto. He was accompanied by nine U.S. Park Police officers. The U.S. Park Police department has a stable on the National Mall.
Secretary Zinkes unusual arrival certainly brought him some media attention today, but hell have responsibilities ahead of him that riders and horse enthusiasts will be watching closely. The fate and future of National Parks, public lands, and wild horse habitats fall under the Department of the Interior.
In his first day on the job, Secretary Zinke issued two secretarial orders focused on hunters and anglers. The first overturns the Use of Nontoxic Ammunition and Fishing Tackle order, which had banned lead bullets and fish tackle on Fish and Wildlife Service lands. The second prioritizes expanding access to hunting and fishing opportunities.
How hell manage the concerns of both trail riders and wild horse advocates remains to be seen.
Leslie Potter is a writer and photographer based in Lexington, Kentucky. www.lesliepotterphoto.com
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Ireland's favourite brass ensemble are getting set to head off on a nationwide tour.
After a hugely busy and successful 2016 with the release of their debut album Chilled Milk, along with enjoying their biggest Irish tour to date, once more taking in shows in Vicar Street, Cork Opera House, Bow St. Sessions and festivals all over Ireland, the UK and Europe, Booka Brass prepare to tour small towns all over Ireland, bringing their unique brand of musical energy off the beaten track throughout the countryside.
Chilled Milk has been widely hailed as one of Ireland's top albums in 2016, by radio DJ's and journalists alike.
This will be a chance to see the lads in an intimate setting. Full tour dates below, with more to be announced.
March
24th - Judge Roy Beans, Kildare
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30th - The Sugar Club, Dublin
April
6th - Kenny's Bar, Lahinch
7th - 5th on Teeling, Sligo
16th - Spirit Store, Dundalk
22nd - Balor Theatre, Donegal
28th - Connolly's, West Cork
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29th - Coughlan's, Cork City
30th - Coughlan's, Cork City
May
5th - Smiddy's, Mullingar
6th - Campbell's Tavern, Headford, Galway
13th - Kavanagh's Bar, Portlaoise 2
20th - Dolan's, Limerick
Carolyn Kaster/STF
JACKSON, Miss. - A federal workplace safety agency wants to fine Nissan more than $21,000, saying the company's Mississippi plant should have better trained a maintenance worker who lost three fingers in July.
The citations were issued weeks before a Saturday rally to support unionization by the United Auto Workers, where pro-union speakers are likely to denounce the Japanese company's safety record. Nissan, though, defends its safety record as "significantly" better than average.
WASHINGTON - Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry made his official return to government Thursday when the U.S. Senate confirmed his nomination as secretary of energy.
With a controversial new president in Donald Trump and a heated debate around how to address climate change underway, Perry will be tested quickly as he takes over an agency that manages billions of dollars in federal research funding.
Trump has promised to slash government spending, and the former governor will likely be under pressure to overhaul a department that spent $29.6 billion in 2016. At the same time Republicans are eager to roll back efforts under former President Barack Obama to expand research into areas such as renewable power and energy efficiency.
"This department, like so many others, has fallen victim to excessive bureaucracy and bloated government spending accounts that detract from its original mission," Rep. Joe Barton, R-Ennis, who attended Texas A&M University with Perry, said in a statement. "Fortunately, we now have a man who possesses a very strong energy background and has a track record of proven executive leadership."
At a swearing-in ceremony with Vice President Mike Pence on Thursday evening, Perry recounted how Trump had told him, "I want you to do for American energy what you did for Texas."
"That's exactly what we intend to do," Perry said. "American energy can lead a revolution economically in this country like we've never seen before."
Perry has long been a favorite son of Texas' oil and gas industry, presiding over a hydraulic fracturing boom that revived what had been an industry in decline. While in the governor's office, he described climate science as a "contrived, phony mess."
But in his recent political comeback - seemingly on hiatus as he made appearances on the television program "Dancing With the Stars" - Perry has taken a more centrist tone. During his confirmation hearing in January, Perry walked back his controversial past statements on climate change - and another suggesting the Department of Energy itself be disbanded - promising an "all of the above" strategy that would promote research into everything from fossil fuels to solar panels to geothermal energy.
That centrist approach won him bipartisan support lacking among many of Trump's Cabinet nominees. As opposition from Democrats slowed confirmation votes, Perry's own confirmation was delayed until six weeks after the inauguration.
Ten Democrats, including Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Sen. Claire McCaskill of Missouri and Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, joined Republicans in voting to confirm Perry's nomination. Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, also voted for Perry.
Even environmental groups, no fans of the former governor, seemed to avoid the hard-line attacks directed at EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt and took Perry's confirmation as a chance to press him to continue his support for renewable energy while in the governor's office. Perry's embrace of wind power helped Texas to become by far the largest generator of wind energy in the nation.
"Perry, who saw firsthand the rise of wind generation in Texas, needs to be an aggressive champion of pioneering advancements," Abigail Dillen, an attorney at the advocacy group EarthJustice, said in a statement. "At a time when we need to be making a wholesale shift from coal, oil and gas to renewable energy, we look to the Department of Energy for the crucial clean energy research and innovation that is absolutely essential to our energy transformation."
At the same time, pressure is mounting from Democrats and Republicans alike to speed up development on advanced nuclear reactors that can be built more cheaply and do not produce the radioactive waste that the government has long struggled to find a repository for. And then there is the question of finding an economic way to capture carbon emitted by power plants and industrial facilities that burn fossil fuels.
Perry is the second member of Trump's Cabinet from Texas, following former Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson as secretary of state, raising expectations that this administration will place a priority on helping the oil and gas industry, which drives the Houston economy.
To what point Perry will hold true to his "all of the above" strategy remains to be seen.
Some Democrats remain skeptical. Since his confirmation, Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., the ranking Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, questioned Perry's commitment to renewable power and energy efficiency.
"We've had the last two presidents make energy efficiency a key priority - President Bush by advocating for plug-in vehicles and President Obama who made a major investment in smart grids, efficiency and clean energy jobs," she said. "Gov. Perry has not committed to those same principles that are going to move us towards those 21st-century jobs."
That's not necessarily a bad thing for many GOP lawmakers. Rep. Lamar Smith, R-San Antonio, is leading a group of Republicans attacking the Department of Energy's loan guarantee program, which aims to speed up the transition of new energy technology onto the marketplace.
Smith argues such a program interferes with the energy markets, allowing the government to give its preferred sources of energy a leg up over those it does not favor. Rather, Smith argues, the department needs to focus on putting money into new technologies that the private sector is unwilling to commit research funding to.
"We will work with Secretary Perry to prioritize basic research that will lead to innovative technologies and develop affordable energy for Americans," Smith said in a statement Thursday.
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On the last afternoon in February, dozens of students crowd the auditorium at Woodson K-8 School in south Houston. At Woodson, Black History Month means a little something extra.
The chorus of students and teachers sing "Lift Every Voice and Sing," often called the Black National Anthem. Earlier, there'd been a dramatic reading of Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise." And second graders had presented a PowerPoint highlighting famous quotes by African-American pioneers like educator and philanthropist Mary McLeod Bethune. Most of the names on the slide are familiar.
But one name Carter G. Woodson is less familiar, even though it runs across the front of the school in large black letters.
But Woodson deserves to be better known: Close to a century ago, he brought black history into the American conscious. Without him, Black History Month and departments of African-American studies might not exist.
THE HOUSTON HANDBOOK: "So much more than 'white-man' history"
Carter Godwin Woodson was an African-American historian, author and journalist, known as one of the first scholars to study African-American history. Born in 1875 to parents who were both enslaved and illiterate, Woodson was raised in Virginia before attending college in Kentucky. He would earn his Ph.D. in history from Harvard University, eventually teaching in places from Chicago to the Philippines.
Woodson's name should be synonymous with cultural influence, says Kimberly Brown, assistant professor of history at Texas Southern University.
"It's important to center him," she said. "If you celebrate Christmas, it's kind of important to know who Jesus is, right?"
Brown notes that celebrating icons like Martin Luther King Jr. or Rosa Parks would not be possible without Woodson's foundation. Neither would black studies books, departments or museums.
"In short, he helped legitimize 'woke' culture today," she said, adding that he laid the foundation for future acknowledgement.
Throughout his life, Woodson was adamant about professionalizing black studies at a time when it was thought that African-Americans didn't have a history.
Brown depicts a younger, resolute Woodson. He endures stout resistance from his professors at Harvard who claimed that African-Americans made meager, if any, contributions to American society. They laughed at the idea that black people contributed to the Revolutionary War, for instance.
Woodson made it his mission legitimize black history, exhuming the facts and figures from the past to formalize that history for the first time. He led a team that gleaned this history through meticulous research, building grassroots connections in communities to help find additional pieces to the puzzle of the black un-image in the American narrative. Woodson lived the life of a scholar-activist, Brown said, even selling his publications at a loss.
In 1915, he helped found the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History and, a year later, began publishing the Journal of Negro History, quarterly. In 1926, Woodson launched the annual observance of Negro History Week, which became Black History Month in 1976.
During that week, organizations like the YMCA, NAACP and black fraternities and sororities held pageants, programs and dinners to commemorate the past.
HOUSTON LEGEND: Barbara Jordan's lasting legacy
Contrary to some beliefs, Woodson chose February because of two prominent birthdays: Abraham Lincoln (Feb. 12) and Frederick Douglass (Feb. 14). Another criticism has been that the selection of just one month the shortest at that still allows others to marginalize black history throughout the rest of the year. But Woodson hoped the initial acknowledgment would proliferate so that others would understand the past more wholly.
His work is more relevant than ever today, as the legacies of pioneering Americans like journalist Ida B. Wells, Harlem renaissance man James Baldwin and March on Washington organizer Baynard Rustin glow brighter in the historical spotlight.
Woodson's legacy is perhaps most evident in his academic influence, however. He established the graduate history program at my alma mater, Howard University, in Washington, D.C. That influenced Toni Morrison, who graduated from Howard in the early 1950s before briefly teaching at Texas Southern. The literary savant has won Nobel and Pulitzer Prizes among many others for her writing.
In the 1960s, alumnus Kwame Ture (born Stokely Carmichael) helped popularize the term "Black Power" as a call for black agency. Later, alumni Isabel Wilkerson and Ta-Nehisi Coates would expand the American conscious through their award-winning works on the Great Migration and America's long history of housing discrimination against African Americans, respectively.
The necessity to incorporate these black histories an American history, really is no less crucial now than when Woodson pushed for its initial acknowledgment, particularly as revisionist policies and textbooks threaten to paint a less-honest American past in Texas and elsewhere.
"You can't celebrate black history without thinking of the person who started it," Brown said.
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Project Joy & Hope has a goal to meet.
The Pasadena-based organization, established in 2000, offers pediatric palliative care for children with live with life-limiting conditions.
Some children served by Project Joy & Hope stay with their families in one of six on-site homes while they receive care. Since 2014, the organization has been able to raise money for six additional residences which are now under construction and expected to open in the fall.
However, that's not all Jan Wheeler, the nonprofit's founder, hopes to accomplish. She has plans to debut a 5,000-square-foot Palliative Care Center to serve the broader needs of anyone, not just children, needing palliative care.
That's where her goal comes in.
The J. E. and L. E. Mabee Foundation, a private charitable organization, has promised to complete Project Joy & Hope's capital campaign if 80 percent of the $1.95 million needed to fund the six new homes and center is raised by June.
Wheeler is reaching out to the Pasadena community and beyond to ensure the 80 percent is raised.
She said it's necessary if she and her organization are to continue to provide the kind of care they deem essential to those they serve.
"To palliate means to comfort, and we comfort people in many ways," she said. "Sometimes we do that by getting them out of pain, or providing emotional support, or psychological support or by improving their living conditions and thereby easing their pain."
The existing residential duplexes and the ones under construction are located in Pasadena on Tulip Street.
Wheeler said families may choose to live there for a number of reasons.
"We have people there who have children in hospice care or receiving end-of-life services. They may be pre- or post-transplant, or they are there because they're undergoing treatment for a life-threatening condition," she said.
Katrina Mena is one parent who's benefitted from Project Joy & Hope's residential facilities.
In a promotional video for the organization she described what having access to secure housing meant to her and her family.
"Not just are they giving you a place to stay, they're giving you a beautiful home to live in while you're going through such a hard time with your child," Mena said. "It was such a relief."
The planned Palliative Care Center would be the first such facility in Texas, Wheeler said. It will be located in front of the residences on Tulip Street.
"The center will be for the entire community, that's what makes it unique," she explained. "We'll have spaces for end-of-life-care planning, for establishing medical power of attorney, for making wills and other services."
Wheeler said many people do not have such protections in place nor do they know where to get them done, hence the need for a one-stop center for anyone looking for that type of information.
She added the center will also provide space for art therapy, children's activities, a parent support center, a business center, an exercise facility, a volunteer work room and private and public meeting rooms.
"The center will also be a place for education and training where the community will be able to have programs there and where we can train palliative care professionals to provide their services better," Wheeler said. "As soon as we complete this capital campaign we can break ground on the center, and we can be a source of information for anyone who needs palliative care."
The organization is well on its way to reaching its goal with help from its community partners such as local philanthropists Jon and Jackie Hodges of Pasadena and the Rotary Club of Pasadena, which committed to building one home.
Rotary president Brad French said his group's involvement helped to create a ripple effect and inspire others to contribute, as well.
Wheeler agreed.
"Many people who share our vision have stepped up and joined us," she said.
For more information about Project Joy & Hope or how to contribute to its fundraising campaign, go to www.joyandhope.org.
MCSO Submitted Photo
A 33-year-old Spring man has been arrested for two counts of felony injury to a child, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.
Detectives with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit were dispatched to Texas Children's Hospital in Houston in reference to an injury to two children. MCSO Detectives, with the assistance of Texas Children's Hospital and the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office, applied for and received two arrest warrants for Jackie Brent Nance who was arrested yesterday by deputies with MCSO SWAT on Wednesday.
When police arrested 19-year-old Jacobe Dante Payton this week, a longtime family friend thought it was for unpaid traffic tickets.
Until recently, the Houston resident had been a student at Willowridge High School, in the southwest portion of the city. After class, he watched his 8-month-old son and 2-year-old daughter while their mother, his high school sweetheart, worked.
"He didn't have a mean streak in his body," said Karla Barnes, the longtime friend. Barnes said she is the daughter of Payton's former guardian.
On Wednesday, the Houston Police Department identified the teen as the alleged killer of 8-year-old De'Maree Adkins, who died last Saturday.
Early morning crash
As De'Maree's family plans the third-grader's funeral, Payton's friend and lawyer are questioning how the father and student they knew could have shot a child.
"I can't imagine how he could get mixed up in something like this," said Tiffany Hill, a lawyer the court appointed to represent Payton for two unrelated charges. "He seemed like one of those students that stays on top of himself."
Payton had been out of the house that Saturday with friends, Barnes said.
Early Saturday morning, De'Maree's mother, Latoyia Thomas, crashed into a Pontiac at the intersection of Beltway 8 and West Fuqua, while driving herself and De'Maree home from a hair appointment. After the collision, a person opened fire at Thomas' Honda and hit De'Maree, according to police reports. A four-door sedan fled the scene. Thomas, who was uninjured, held De'Maree in her arms and begged her daughter to stay alive.
Paramedics transported De'Maree to a hospital, where she died of her injuries.
The Houston Police Department is still investigating the case.
Pending assault cases
This isn't Payton's first brush with law enforcement.
In September, he was arrested in Harris County and accused of stealing 15 flash drives, three hard drives, a laptop, a computer bag and cash, valued between $2,500 and $50,000. He was released on bond and then arrested again in January for failing to appear in court. He appears to have been released on bond again in early February, according to court records.
He also has two assault cases pending in Fort Bend County, both of which Hill said happened at school. One alleges he got in a fight in January 2015 and struck another student. The second, filed about a year later, alleges he slapped his girlfriend.
Both were misunderstandings, Hill said. Payton pled not guilty to both in his arraignment. He was scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday for both charges.
By then, he had already been taken into police custody for De'Maree's murder.
Because the shooting happened in the portion of Houston that is in Fort Bend, not Harris, County, Payton is being held in the Fort Bend County jail with a $500,000 bail. He was charged in the 240th State District Court in Fort Bend County.
De'Maree's family announced her funeral will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday at Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church at 3015 N. MacGregor Way, Houston.
Houston Police Department
A Houston man was charged Friday with human trafficking after allegedly heading a prostitution ring in which women were forced into sexual slavery through beatings and threats to their lives, according to the Harris County District Attorney's Office.
Anthony Gardner is believed to be the first person charged by the the Harris County District Attorney's office with the crime of "continuing trafficking of persons." He also faces one charge of aggravated promotion of prostitution and two counts of compelling prostitution by force. The 27-year-old forced eight women, including two minors to work for him on Houston streets from November 2014 until his recent arrest.
For years, Roberta Gibson dreaded working with her boss, the Texas Southern University police chief.
Unwanted touches and hugs were common, she said. He also made comments about her legs and body.
Remon Green resigned this week after a university investigation of Gibson's allegations found an "offensive, hostile and uncomfortable work environment" created by the police chief's "unwanted and unwelcomed" hugs and touches, and his suggestive comments about female employees' attire, according to a summary of the investigation's findings obtained by the Houston Chronicle. An attorney representing Green called the accusations false and "malicious."
Despite police chief's resignation, Gibson said the investigation Texas Southern conducted of her sexual harassment claims proceeded too slowly and didn't give her accusations enough weight.
TSU found Green responsible for her allegations that could be corroborated by a third party, but his viewpoint was given more credence regarding her accusations of harassment that occurred in private, said Casey Jordan, Gibson's attorney. Many universities, including TSU, use a "preponderance of the evidence" standard, meaning the accused is found responsible if an allegation such as Gibson's is more likely than not to have occurred, Jordan said.
During its probe of Green's conduct, TSU also learned that its police chief had contacted at least one member of the police force, claiming that Gibson was trying to ruin his family and career. That contact violated a directive from TSU President Austin Lane, Green's manager who told him not to discuss the case with anyone while the university investigated Gibson's claims. The university's Title IX coordinator Keisha David recommended on Feb. 15 that Green either be terminated from his job or removed from a leadership position and suspended without pay.
Lane declined comment on Thursday regarding Green, saying personnel matters are confidential. The university confirmed its police chief resigned on Wednesday, but officials declined further comment.
Green had worked at TSU in Houston for about 15 years as sergeant, lieutenant, captain and deputy chief, before assuming the chief position last year. He declined comment regarding his resignation when reached by the Chronicle on Wednesday.
Gibson, TSU's department of public safety project coordinator, said Green's harassment began when she started working for the police department in 2008. She feared retaliation and so did not report it until October 2016, she said.
Unwanted sexual advances and inappropriate touching, she said, escalated when Green was promoted to chief in February 2016.
"He got very cocky; he got very arrogant; he got even more entitled," she said in an interview this week with the Chronicle.
Last spring, she said Green showed her a picture of his penis on his cellphone and asked her to show him nude photos of her. Although TSU investigated this allegation, the university's report said only that Gibson told a colleague about this accusation.
Green denied making sexually overt comments or gestures toward Gibson or other employees, according to the college's report of its investigation. His hugs, he told investigators, were meant to promote a "family atmosphere" in his department and he said he thought Gibson filed a complaint against him because she did not receive a pay raise in 2016.
However, Gibson said the tipping point prompting her to report Green to TSU came when she saw the infamous video of then-Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump describing grabbing and kissing women while using crude, explicit language. After the national media reported about the Trump video, women on social media began sharing their stories of harassment and sexual assault - and explained why they didn't report the crimes.
"I just decided that I'm not going to be that woman. I have to say something, enough is enough," she said. Gibson also filed a complaint Feb. 20 with the Texas Workforce Commission alleging gender-based workplace discrimination. The agency has not yet responded to Gibson or her attorney.
Green, who had been on administrative leave before resigning, retained Houston attorney Vic Bonner after tendering his resignation.
"We're through with it. He resigned," Bonner said Thursday. Green's resignation "doesn't necessarily mean he's guilty of anything," Bonner said.
Just 10 months after he was released from prison, a 25-year-old Houston man with gang ties and a laundry list of prior convictions was identified as the man killed earlier this week after shooting two Houston police officers.
Before the latest outburst of violence, Earl Donnell Riley had been arrested for multiple burglaries, marijuana, driving while intoxicated, felon in possession of a weapon, criminal mischief, trespassing and evading arrest - and that was just in the past eight years since he reached majority age.
The Louisiana native - who boasted a "Most Hated" tattoo across his back, according to prison records - has been linked to a criminal gang called the 52 Hoovers, a subset of the Crips with members in northeast, south and east Houston, a police union official said Wednesday.
Riley's series of crimes ended Tuesday morning, when he was fatally shot after opening fire on officers Ronny Cortez and Jose Munoz.
Police had been in the area investigating a rash of burglaries plaguing the neighborhood when a woman on Sterlingame Road flagged them down after noticing her backyard shed door cracked open. The two officers discovered a man hiding inside, a struggle ensued and gunfire erupted.
Riley was fatally shot by Sgt. J. Garza after emerging from the shed with a 9mm handgun, police said.
Both officers were wounded. Munoz was shot in the foot and released from the hospital the next day.
Cortez, a 24-year veteran of the force, was hit three times, including one shot that left a bullet lodged near his spine, leaving family members wondering if he will be able to walk again.
"We ask that everyone continue to send prayers our way as Ronny continues his recovery," the family said in a statement Thursday evening. "Ronny is a protector and has always been there to help those in need. Right now, we are making sure he gets the best care possible since he is the one in need."
Could have been in jail
A second burglary suspect is still on the loose, though Police Chief Art Acevedo said the man was not involved in the shooting.
If the stars had aligned differently, Riley might have been behind bars that day.
He was arrested on Valentine's Day for drunk driving, charged with DWI and keeping an open drink in his passenger seat.
But two days later, prosecutors asked a judge to dismiss the DWI charge due to a lack of probable cause for the arrest, and the judge ordered Riley's release.
Six years earlier, Riley was arrested under circumstances similar to Tuesday's incident.
HPD officers were hot on the trail of the then-18-year-old in April 2010 after he was suspected in a string of burglaries in a Spring Branch West neighborhood, about 10 miles north of Tuesday's shooting.
After a short chase, police arrested him in a neighbor's backyard, according to an officer's sworn statement.
Although his fingerprints were found on a stolen 32-inch television taken from the crime scene, a judge tossed the case because prosecutors couldn't prove he'd taken the TV; his prints only proved he came into contact with it later.
Prison sentence
Tamara Penberthy watched as the scene unfolded.
"That morning they just went on a rampage and robbed everyone whose fences back up to each other and had a flatscreen TV," Penberthy, 37, recalled Thursday.
She said her husband leapt over a fence to tackle one of the fleeing burglars.
"It was very evident that he was on a lot of drugs," she said. "He couldn't even look us in the eyes when he was caught."
Before that case finished winding its way through the legal system, however, Riley was sentenced to prison for another break-in the same day.
He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years in prison, with 19 months' credit given for time spent in jail awaiting trial.
He was released in August 2011 on mandatory supervision, according to prison records.
In 2013, he pleaded guilty to another home burglary as well as being a felon in possession of a weapon after stealing a gun from a Houston home. That netted him another three-year sentence. He was released from state prison in May.
One lawyer who represented him in an earlier case said he remembered nothing about the future shooter.
"The name sounds vaguely familiar," said another.
Interfaith leaders gathered Friday at the Catholic Chancery in downtown Houston in an urgent plea to Congress to stop separating families and push for a path to citizenship for immigrants in the country illegally
The coalition of religious leaders, who are part of The Metropolitan Organization, says they have grown frustrated in the first months of President Donald Trump's administration after a series of executive orders and policy changes targeting immigrants in the country illegally.
"We've put them in an untenable position," said Lutheran Bishop Michael Rinehart. "We've been stuck in this situation for years, and these are very good people who are contributing to our tax base and our economy."
Under the Obama administration Immigration and Customs Enforcement focused their priorities on deporting felons and criminals. But the recent deportation of a Houston-area man without a criminal record and a college student who spoke out against the new policies at a news conference have stunned immigrant communities throughout the country.
Advocates are highlighting the case of Jose Escobar, a Houston father who had been granted temporary protection in 2012 and was deported Thursday. They say his case is in sharp contrast to the drug dealers and gang members Trump said the administration was having great success in deporting.
The father of two and husband to a United States citizen was detained during a check-in last month with immigration officials. Escobar's legal status was essentially lost when his mother believed he was automatically included in her visa renewal application. He was deported back to his home country of El Salvador, a country he hasn't seen in 16 years.
Cardinal Daniel DiNardo said the outlook deported immigrants face is bleak. The process of legally coming back to the United States involves returning to a country many no longer know, applying for a green card remotely and waiting, in some cases, for years to have their cases heard.
"It is impacting the lives of real people in our congregations," Rinehart said. "We have seen the turmoil in our own communities that has already been created."
The group urged Congress to consider a "compassionate" path to citizenship for the estimated 11 million immigrants illegally in the United States, including 1.4 million who came to the U.S. without authorization as children known as "Dreamers."
The federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program does not provide legal status, but lets those who came to the United States as minors obtain a renewable two-year work permit.
"Our DACA children, our Dreamers, should be given the ability to fully embrace the American dream with access to citizenship," said the Rev. John Ogletree of the First Metropolitan Church.
There's a sense of urgency at Houston's first and biggest Mexican-American church, said Father Tim Gray.
Gray said between 80 and 90 percent of Our Lady of Guadalupe's congregation are of a vulnerable legal status and could be affected by the recent shift in immigration policy.
"I'm here to show our concern for the status of the people that have been living here for many years and are now being threatened," Gray said. "People that consider themselves residents they have families, they have homes, they have jobs. They're here for many years and suddenly they're realizing that that could all disappear."
Rinehart said individual parishes are educating their members on emergency plans in case they are detained, but can do little to actually prevent it from happening or provide resources after they have been deported.
At his first address to a joint Congress on Tuesday, Trump hinted at a softer stance on immigration law. The possibility of a path to citizenship is a significant pivot from his previously bold stance, anchored by his campaign promise to build a wall on the Mexican border.
The interfaith group began meeting almost a decade ago. DiNardo, the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, said their primary focus is to advocate for immigration reform.
"We first spoke out because we thought there was a real chance something could be done," DiNardo said. "We think religiously it's important, and morally it's important."
The cardinal said the softened rhetoric gave the coalition hope that reform could be more attainable than they previously thought.
"The fact that the president mentioned the other night that Congress should work on this is a sign of hope," DiNardo said. "That's the only place where it can be done."
Dueling Houston law schools reached a settlement Thursday in a federal trademark spat over the name and branding at the older institution.
After hitting an impasse in settlement talks earlier this year, the University of Houston and South Texas College of Law Houston hammered out a draft agreement after two days of mediation this week before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena Hanovice Palermo.
Officials at both schools said they are still waiting for the UH Chancellor and the South Texas board to sign off on the deal.
The schools agreed not to comment on the terms of the agreement or their feelings about the nine-month detente, officials said.
UH regents filed a federal lawsuit in June after crosstown rival South Texas College of Law changed its name to Houston College of Law and switched to a red color scheme for branding and marketing. A high-powered team of UH lawyers said potential law students would be confused by the similarities of the names and colors.
The UH Law Center owned the rights to the word "Houston" in an educational setting, the university contended.
The private law school fought back with its own top-tier lawyers, arguing the schools were too different to cause confusion.
But in October, U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison ruled that UH was likely to win at trial and he ordered South Texas to stop using the name starting with "Houston."
South Texas reverted to its original name, but adding the word Houston at the end, a revision UH officials said they approved.
It appeared the major conflicts had been resolved, and Ellison suggested the parties work out the final details privately. In January, however, the discussions halted over monetary issues and the status of various trademark applications and registrations still pending.
The judge sent the case to formal mediation, which resulted in the agreement after talks this week.
Officials with both schools declined to comment on the potential settlement.
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Jose Escobar lost his legal status in a paperwork gaffe more than a decade ago when he was still a teen in Houston.
That slip-up, the fault of his mother who thought her child would be automatically included in her own renewal application, has trailed him ever since. Thursday it led to his surprise deportation to El Salvador, a country he hasn't seen in 16 years.
The government's decision to remove the 31-year-old father, who has no criminal record and is married to an American citizen, is the latest indication that President Donald Trump's administration plans to deport practically any immigrant here illegally, even some like Escobar who were temporarily protected, who happens to fall into its cross hairs.
It comes just days after the president told Congress that he was removing gang members and drug dealers just as he had promised.
"Bad ones are going out as I speak," Trump said.
Left behind now is Escobar's wife Rose, a receptionist at Texas Children's Hospital, and their two small children. It escalates the fear felt by many immigrants across the nation as they realize they are increasingly at risk.
"What the president is doing is going after everyone," said David Leopold, an Ohio immigration attorney and past president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. "This case is a tragic example of what's happening on the ground."
Jose called Rose at around 2:30 p.m. Thursday to tell her that he was in the San Salvador airport and too terrified to step outside. The removal came after their lawyer, Raed Gonzalez, requested a stay of deportation to reopen Jose's case. The government never responded, he said.
Cesar Espinosa, executive director of the advocacy group FIEL Houston, said Jose's deportation would heighten anxiety across the city.
"It just sends a shock wave through the community," he said. "It's all coming to fruition and it's very scary."
The Escobars had thought they were safe. Since 2012, Jose has had a temporary reprieve from deportation and a work permit. He checked in with immigration authorities every year.
Then Trump's administration last week issued its new guidelines, making almost every immigrant here illegally a priority for deportation. When the Escobars showed up at their routine appointment on Feb. 22, immigration agents told Rose to bid her husband goodbye.
She went outside and sobbed. Then she vowed to fight. She comforted herself that she had been here before, when Jose was first detained in 2011, and that she had won that battle. After an intense 7-month media and congressional campaign, immigration agents released Jose, granting him the reprieve.
His was part of a wave of provisional stays announced that year by the administration of former President Barack Obama, who said he wanted to focus the government's limited resources on deporting violent criminals, rather than people like Jose with clean records who had been here for years and have American children.
Jose came here when he was 15, qualifying for temporary protected status for people fleeing widespread disasters in certain countries. Then his mother assumed her renewal application covered him.
When he finally figured out that his permit had instead expired, it was too late. The government had already initiated deportation proceedings. His lawyer told him not to show up at the court hearing and in his absence, a judge ordered him removed in 2006.
By then, Jose was married to Rose, his childhood sweetheart whom he met in a Houston middle school. They tried to apply for his green card through his marriage to an American citizen, but lawyers said that he might risk waiting years in El Salvador because he had been here illegally.
Not knowing what to do, they carried on with their lives. They had a son, Walter. Then in 2011, immigration agents arrested Jose on the old deportation order.
Rose recruited the help of U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Houston Democrat, and in January 2012, Jose was released on an order of supervision, a provisional stay of deportation in a process known broadly as prosecutorial discretion.
But now the previous focus on violent criminals has been widened to almost anyone here illegally.
The change has swept fear across the country that has been heightened by widespread raids and incidents like the arrest this week of 22-year-old Daniela Vargas in Mississippi. Vargas previously had a protected status for young immigrants who were brought here illegally as children. Her permit expired last November, though she had since filed to renew it.
"This clearly sends a message," said Bill Stock, president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. "Now the dragnet is meant to capture whomever it captures."
Some argue that is a good thing, in keeping with Trump's promises during the campaign to stop illegal immigration.
"They are facing consequences for their choices," said Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies for the Center for Immigration Studies, a Washington D.C. think tank advocating for reduced immigration, in an email. "Some people think it's not fair, but many others think it's not fair to ... look the other way when people remain here illegally."
Rose doesn't think it's fair to take her husband away from her children, especially when he was complying with immigration instructions and not committing any crimes beyond being here illegally - a situation he couldn't fix.
"I'm begging President Donald Trump to look into my case and see if my husband is really destroying America," Rose said at an emotional press conference.
She said her husband is shuttered in her grandmother's house in San Salvador, afraid to go outside in case the capital city's many gangs attacked him when they recognized his American clothes.
She worries about how she will explain it all to Walter, who is 7.
"He just went somewhere boring," she told him last week.
Since then, she's said that Jose is actually on vacation. But she knows she will have to explain it to her son soon. Her daughter Carmen, who is 2, is too young to understand.
Once again, Rose promised not to give up.
"My husband is coming back and he's coming back legally," she said. "I'm going to be his voice and my children's voice and the voice of those families who are being torn apart."
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AUSTIN - A federal judge tossed out civil securities fraud charges against Ken Paxton for the second time Thursday, giving the Texas attorney general a major win as he braces for high-stakes criminal trials on similar charges that have the potential to unravel his political career.
While Paxton's victory in federal civil court has no official bearing on the state criminal case, it hints at the likely arguments the embattled politician will lean on when his criminal trial begins May 1.
While the criminal case requires a higher standard of proof, one of the prosecutors involved said Thursday's dismissal would have no bearing on the state's case because it involves different laws.
"That has no relevance at all," special prosecutor Kent Schaffer said of the dismissal of the SEC claims.
U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant dismissed the charges against Paxton Thursday, ruling the attorney general had "no plausible legal duty" to disclose to investors he would make a commission off of their purchase of stock in a North Texas tech company.
This is the second time Mazzant has dismissed charges brought by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission against Paxton, who was charged with two counts of securities fraud and one count of failing to register with the state. After the first dismissal, Mazzant gave the SEC a chance to amend its complaint and try again.
He dismissed the case with prejudice Thursday, which means the SEC cannot bring an action on the same claim again.
"The question before the Court is not whether Paxton should have disclosed his compensation arrangement, but whether Paxton had a legal duty under federal securities law to disclose," Mazzant said in his ruling.
He touched on the ethical undertones of the case, but said "it is not the province of the Court to stretch federal securities laws beyond their scope to prescribe liability based on moral considerations or policy concerns."
Paxton chided the SEC for bringing the charges, calling the case a "travesty" and calling for the federal agency to be held accountable.
"I have maintained all along this whole saga is a political witch hunt," the attorney general said. "Today's ruling to dismiss the charges with prejudice confirms that these charges were baseless when the SEC initially brought them and they were without merit when the SEC re-filed them."
First case simplest to try
The win gives Paxton momentum as he heads to criminal court where the standard of proof is higher than in civil court. Paxton, a Republican and first-term attorney general, faces similar charges in state criminal court and is expected to go to trial May 1 on a third-degree felony charge he failed to register as an investment advisor. Paxton was reprimanded and fined $1,000 in 2014 for failing to register with the state for soliciting clients for Mowery Capital Management LLC. He paid the fine without contest and prosecutors say the case will be the simplest to try.
A second trial is expected to follow, with the state's special prosecutors trying Paxton on two first-degree felony securities fraud charges. The heavier charges allege Paxton committed securities fraud when he recruited investors without disclosing he was making a commission. He raised $840,000 in investments in Servergy, a tech company that paid him 100,000 shares of stock valued at $1 for recruiting investors. If found guilty, Paxton could face up to 99 years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines.
Paxton has tried to get the criminal case thrown out. Unlike in federal court, state district and appellate courts have refused to dismiss the criminal case.
'Different law, different court'
The federal court's decision to trash the civil case "doesn't affect the criminal case one bit," said Schaffer, a Houston defense lawyer appointed as a special prosecutor who will try Paxton in Collin County this spring. "We've alleged fraud and a material omission. If that omission is one that led to the victims investing in this company, then that would be fraudulent" under state law, Schaffer said. "It's a different law, it's a different court."
While the charges are similar, the linchpin to the state criminal case could be whether Paxton truly was an investment advisor, said James Spindler, a law and business professor at the University of Texas at Austin.
Texas has a "very aggressive" securities law which makes it easy to nail a person for failing to register as an investment advisor if paid for financial advice, he said.
"The relationship between an investment advisor and a client is one of trust," Spindler said. If Paxton is found not to have been an investment advisor, his alleged failure to disclose that he would profit from convincing people to buy stock would not amount to fraud, Spindler said.
Another difference between the cases is a jury, not a judge, will decide Paxton's criminal case.
The special prosecutors have argued Paxton's team has "tainted" the jury pool by flooding Collin County with various media in favor of the attorney general, but the judge has said he will try to seat a jury before deciding whether to change the trial's location. Critics say they look forward to a jury deciding Paxton's fate.
"Ken Paxton may have slipped the snare in federal civil court, but he remains in deep trouble, and a prison cell may be waiting for him on state criminal felony fraud charges," said Matt Angle, director of the Lone Star Project, a left-leaning political action committee. "Paxton knows that facing a jury who hears how he swindled honest Texans out of their money could mean big trouble for him."
Even in a supposed "sanctuary city," morale among Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents is the highest in at least a decade, former senior agency officials in Houston said, as the rank and file adjust to a loosening of restrictions imposed by the Obama administration.
Agents who, just weeks ago, weren't allowed to arrest people merely because they broke immigration laws, say they no longer feel hamstrung and are freer to follow their training and instincts and act on initiative especially when it comes to what the agency calls collateral arrests, picking up immigration violators who weren't the original targets of an operation.
Under Obama, such arrests were discouraged. The priority was on immigrants with the worst criminal records, not catching low-level violators who might be tagging along with intended targets.
"In the past, you could get in trouble for who you arrested," said Steven Boll, retired Houston field office director for ICE. "Now you could potentially get in trouble for who you didn't arrest."
Current ICE officials in Houston declined an interview request.
The new directives mean agents can take steps that had been prohibited before. For example, if they go to a house to arrest a known gang member, and see other suspected gang members present, they can now detain those people for immigration law violations in an effort to gain intelligence about bigger crimes like human trafficking. It would almost defy common sense not to, Boll said, but that's how things went under the old priorities.
He noted that just because an agent arrests someone, that doesn't mean discretion ends there. Higher-ranking officials may decide later to release the person, if bed space is needed or if the detainee has a sensitive situation, like caring for children. What's important, he said, is that their biometric information is entered into a database, so immigration officers know who is in the country.
It had long riled agents that they couldn't even do that much.
Boll said it was never so much an issue of being in a sanctuary city. He said the agency always got the backup it needed from Houston police, even though they've operated under a policy of not inquiring about immigration status.
"What's hard is when you don't feel like you have the support within your own ranks," he said. "The onset of this administration seems much more supportive."
For immigrants living in the United States illegally, the new ICE marching orders have translated into fears of indiscriminately wide dragnets. Software developers are even working on an app to alert people to immigration raids. They've heard the stories: Agents asking people for ID while getting off of a domestic flight. A woman detained while getting a court order to protect her from domestic abuse. People arrested on their way out of a church homeless shelter. And, in Houston, a young father being deported after a routine check-in with immigration officials, sending him back to a country he hasn't seen since he was in middle school 16 years ago.
Yet, with the exception of the Houston case, these incidents began not with a random sweep, but with an investigation and a court order directing federal agents to detain a specific person.
Even in the Houston incident, it's not part of a widening trend, at least not yet.
"Mostly I've heard rumors which turned out not to be true," immigration attorney Nancy Falgout said in an email. "We're just waiting for what may be coming. People are scared, but I have a friend who accompanied his client to a check-in with ICE a couple of days ago, and there was no problem. The attorney mentioned that everyone seemed to be checking in and leaving out the front door afterwards."
Boll always has been troubled by the way the word "raid" gets thrown around, conjuring up images of random sweeps at workplaces, something immigration officials haven't done routinely in decades.
"It's not a good use of resources, it's disruptive to the community, and it creates panic," said Robert Rutt, retired special agent in charge for ICE in Houston. He notes there are about 34,000 beds funded for U.S. immigration detention while there are an estimated 11 million people living here illegally. "So management is not going to allow officers to go out and just do indiscriminate roundups."
Worksite enforcement usually targets places that have been under investigation for widespread abuse of immigration laws, the officials said. Immigration advocates saw this week's arrests at eight Mississippi restaurants as a sign that old-style raids were back. But ICE officials said those searches were the culmination of a multi-year criminal investigation.
Yet it is unquestionable that officers are exercising powers in ways they haven't for years.
On Wednesday, in Jackson, Miss., a 22-year-old woman who was in the process of renewing her legal status was arrested after speaking out alongside immigrant rights advocates at a news conference. The activists said the timing of Daniela Vargas' arrest indicated she was being silenced for her speech. ICE officials said her family had overstayed a travel visa years ago and reiterated that they do not make indiscriminate arrests.
It's unlikely she would have been targeted under Obama. A so-called Dreamer, she had twice been granted a reprieve under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, since she arrived from Argentina with her parents at age 7. President Trump's comments about the DACA program have been ambiguous.
Under executive orders signed last month by Trump and implementation guidelines released last week, experts say that every immigrant here illegally is now a priority for deportation, no matter how long they have lived here or if they have committed no crimes beyond violating immigration laws.
Despite the high-profile arrests in recent weeks, it's unclear what enforcement will look like long-term.
"The pendulum is going to swing back and forth," Boll said. "It's very political."
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She was a sacrificial offering to the "Beast."
Dumped on a southwest Houston street, the young woman known only as Genesis was killed in a satanic ritual by two members of the violent MS-13 Salvadoran gang after she disrespected their shrine to Satanism, prosecutors said Thursday in court.
"The Beast didn't want a material offering. It wanted a soul," a witness told police.
When the witness woke up the next day, the prosecutor said, "Genesis was gone."
The chilling allegation is at the center of a still-unfolding case that includes murder and kidnapping, massive cocaine dealing and sex trafficking by two members of a street gang that prides itself on violence.
The two men - both of whom are living in the U.S. illegally, prosecutors said - have been charged with murder in the death of Genesis and with kidnapping the teenage witness, who was held and abused for weeks. Officials are asking for the public's help in identifying the dead woman, who is believed to have been in her late teens or early 20s.
Miguel Alvarez-Flores, 22, also known as "Diabolico," told police that he was the leader of a local set of the infamous Salvadoran gang MS-13, prosecutors said in court.
He is accused of directing another member, 18-year-old Diego Hernandez-Rivera, to kill Genesis, who was shot in the face and chest and whose body was found lying along the curb in the 9900 block of Sharpcrest Street on Feb. 16.
Police investigating the slaying were aided by the witness, a 14-year-old girl who apparently escaped from the gang after being held against her will, traded between men and used for sex for weeks.
The teen ran away from school around Feb. 2 to an apartment on Glenmont, where gang members were packaging up large amounts of cocaine. She eventually was taken to an apartment on Gessner with about six MS-13 gang members who assaulted her again. She was forced to ingest drugs and alcohol to keep her intoxicated before escaping after about two weeks, prosecutors said.
While she was there, she told police, Alvarez-Flores tattooed the image of the Grim Reaper from her knee to her foot.
The teen knew Genesis and told police what happened.
Alvarez-Flores and Hernandez-Rivera were arrested this week, charged with murder and aggravated kidnapping. They appeared in court Thursday before state District Judge Maria Jackson and are being held in the Harris County Jail in lieu of $300,000 bail.
Jackson appointed lawyers for both men. One of the appointed lawyers, Emily DeToto said she was waiting to see the statements to police before calling them "confessions."
Both men, formerly of El Salvador, are not in the country legally. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency has placed an immigration hold on them, and they would be held by federal authorities if they make bail, according to Harris County prosecutor Lisa Collins.
The men appeared laughing and smiling at cameras in an overnight appearance at a magistrate court, where a night judge read them their rights.
The case is reminiscent of the 2014 murder of 15-year-old Corriann Cervantes, who was killed by two friends who told police they did it to sell their souls to the Devil.
Teenagers Victor Alas and Jose E. Reyes were both sentenced to life in prison without parole after being convicted of strangling, stabbing and sexually assaulting the teen. They had carved an upside-down cross in the girl's abdomen after fatally bludgeoning her with the heavy porcelain lid of a toilet tank after the three did drugs and drank alcohol together in a vacant apartment.
The case, with its connections to the occult, drew comparisons to La Santa Muerte, a ghostly female character believed to be the spirit of death.
It is not unusual for gang members and other violent criminals to light candles and pray to La Santa Muerte, who is sometimes portrayed as a Grim Reaper in women's black robes.
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COPENHAGEN, Denmark - Sweden's left-leaning government instituted a military draft for both men and women Thursday because of what its defense minister called a deteriorating security environment in Europe and around Sweden.
Sweden abolished compulsory military service for men in 2010 because there were enough volunteers to meet its military needs. It has never had a military draft for women.
The government said "the all-volunteer recruitment hasn't provided the Armed Forces with enough trained personnel. The re-activating of conscription is needed for military readiness."
In September, non-NATO-member Sweden stationed permanent troops on the Baltic Sea island of Gotland. Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist described the move as sending a signal after Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and its "increasing pressure" on the neighboring Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
There also have been reports of airspace violations by Russia's military aircraft in the Baltics and a military buildup in the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, which sits across the Baltic Sea from Sweden.
About 20,000 people now work for the Swedish armed forces, 84 percent of them men and 16 percent women, according to the forces' website. But the armed forces lack 1,000 active troops as well as 7,000 reservists, according to Sweden's coalition government of Social Democrats and Greens.
Under the plan approved Thursday, at least 4,000 18-year-olds could be called up each year. Swedes still will be able to volunteer for military service.
The Swedish government, which often has described itself as "feminist," said "modern conscription is gender neutral and will include both women and men."
Hultqvist said he had been inspired by neighboring Norway, which in 2013 introduced a law applying military conscription to both sexes. That made Norway the first NATO member to draft both men and women, joining a tiny group of countries around the world, including Israel.
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There are roughly two dozen tents - even a few couches - beneath a portion of the U.S. 59 overpass that has become James Davis' roof, at the edge of Midtown.
Davis, a 56-year-old originally from Arkansas, has been living in a homeless camp for three years, he said, having struggled to secure housing or other social services, like mental health care, after serving time.
"The system just don't work for us, because we got numbers on our backs," Davis said. "I pushed myself out, now I can't get back in."
Seeking to eliminate tent encampments and help people like Davis transition into housing, Mayor Sylvester Turner announced Thursday what he called a "holistic" approach to reducing homelessness and panhandling that includes a pledge to house 500 chronically homeless people within the next six months and an ordinance banning tents on public property.
Turner also plans to construct alternative, professionally staffed "low-level shelters" under designated highway overpasses or on private property.
The rollout follows a steady stream of complaints from residents and City Council members in recent months, even as data shows Houston-area homelessness is at its lowest level in years.
"It is simply not acceptable for people to live on the streets. It is not good for them, and it is not good for our city," Turner said. "This is a complicated issue that we will tackle humanely with a meaningful approach that balances the needs of the homeless and the concerns of neighborhoods that they impact."
The city initiative also features an anti-panhandling awareness campaign, a plan to encourage groups who feed the homeless to coordinate with the city, and an expansion of the city's legislative agenda to include mental health and substance abuse treatment.
The mayor expects to bring ordinances to City Council this month that would ban tents and other structures on public property, and make it a Class C misdemeanor to obstruct city streets - an effort to curb panhandling.
Meanwhile, Turner said he is negotiating an agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation to allow parking and other business ventures under freeway overpasses, where homeless people often congregate, and the nonprofit Star of Hope plans to add 215 shelter beds by August, with the help of $800,000 in city funding approved in January.
To accommodate those displaced by the city's new rules, Turner intends to construct "low-level shelters" where people could sleep on mats in a fenced-in area with a roof. The plan was inspired by the outdoor sleeping space maintained by a San Antonio non-profit, Haven for Hope.
The mayor has not selected the sites for these shelters, saying he expects council members and their constituents to identify suitable locations.
"We don't want to go to Midtown and tell folk 'go' without at least having another place where we can direct them to," Turner said in a Wednesday meeting with the Chronicle's editorial board. "I think it's important for people who are saying 'we don't want them here' to join in with us in helping to identify acceptable locations."
Homeless population drops
Marc Eichenbaum, special assistant to the mayor for homeless initiatives, said the city does not yet have a cost estimate for its plan.
The city already faces a sizable budget deficit next year - though it has not released a specific estimate - and there is no evidence to suggest homelessness or panhandling is worsening in Houston.
In fact, the homeless population in Harris and Fort Bend counties fell 57 percent between 2011 and 2016 to roughly 3,600, according to the Coalition for the Homeless.
With less than 1 homeless person per 1,000 residents, the Houston area has the lowest homelessness rate of the nation's 10 largest metro areas, according a city analysis of federal data.
"The data reveals that there aren't more individuals on our streets, but, rather, the homeless that are there are now more concentrated and in more highly public, visible areas than before," Eichenbaum said. "The more that homeless individuals are prohibited from being in certain areas, then that unintentionally can consolidate homeless individuals in groups."
Asked how his homelessness plan would fit into the city's budget, Turner pointed to federal disaster relief money and local affordable housing dollars as potential funding sources.
"I know we've got limited funds coming in," he said. "We make do with what we have."
Houston allocated nearly $20 million federal, state and local funds to address homelessness in 2015.
Some council members worried about homelessness and panhandling cheered the mayor's response to their frustrations.
"The concerns that our neighborhoods have are real. The concerns that our drivers on our intersections (have) are real, particularly with the really aggressive window washers," said Councilman Mike Laster, who represents District J in southwest Houston.
Neighborhood civic leaders were more circumspect, however, saying it likely will be difficult to find neighborhoods willing to volunteer sites for the proposed "low-level shelters."
"When you think about a community that already feels like they're heavily saturated, like us in 77009, then adding another 75 is not attractive," said Diana Lerma Pfeifer, past president of the Lindale Park Civic Club, on the city's Northside. "It would be difficult to consider it as an option."
Residents have been vocal
Northside residents have been particularly vocal in calling for the mayor to address homelessness after an 11-year-old was stabbed to death last year, allegedly by homeless veteran.
"When you talk about putting in an encampment, you're definitely going to get pushback," said Tomaro Bell, chair of the Super Neighborhood Alliance's health and public safety committee. "Council members honestly should look at their entire district and then talk to their constituency and sit down with them before they offer up any ideas or suggestions."
Turner brushed off questions about residents' potential unwillingness to welcome a "low-level shelter" to their neighborhood.
"This is a can-do city with a can-do spirit," he said. "I think that if you make the ask, I think people will respond."
Megan Hustings, interim director of the National Coalition for the Homeless, praised the city's plan to increase its permanent supportive housing and shelter capacity but criticized its proposals to ban tents on public property and discourage residents from giving to panhandlers.
"You are outlawing sleeping when you outlaw tents. You can't separate the two. You have to understand that people are going to have a structure. Shelter is a basic human need," Hustings said.
She called giving money to homeless people or panhandlers "an act of human compassion."
"Once you have a city starting to say, 'Don't give to homeless people,' you're sending a message that these folks don't deserve your compassion or that they're dangerous," Hustings said.
A man who lives with Davis under U.S. 59 and referred to himself as "Mr. Wheeler Station" encouraged patience.
"This is going to be a trial and error thing, so don't think y'all going to solve this homeless thing overnight," he said. "Just like it's a process to get into things, it's a process to get out of things."
Jon Shapley contributed to this story.
HOGP
The search for alien life may be over! Well, maybe that's a stretch, but we are as close as we've ever been, according to the team of astronomers who discovered another solar system that could, maybe, support life similar to Earth's. A mere 40 light years away, seven terrestrial planets about the same size as our own beautiful blue marble orbit an ultra-cool, dwarf red star known as Trappist-1. Thanks to NASA's space-based telescopes, astronomers were able to calculate the number and size of the planets and are continuing to peer across 750 trillion miles of space looking for tell-tale signs of life. The accomplishment is a mind-bending testament to the wonder of scientific ingenuity and the importance of NASA's work.
Scientists from Galileo (astronomy) and Isaac Newton (celestial mechanics) right up through Albert Einstein (E=MC2) and Alan Turing (computers) and Marie Curie (radioactivity) and Watson and Crick (DNA double helix) and on and on have been following their curiosity and determination to understand how our world works. Science eradicated smallpox and developed the internet, put men on the moon and at the bottom of the ocean, described the genetics of cancer and blue eyes and calico cats, explained hurricanes and gravity and snowflakes, developed antibiotics, airplanes, machines that can look inside a living body, calculate faster than a roomful of humans, drive cars, fly airplanes. Science is at the center of all that makes our lives safe and rich and interesting.
EL PASO - In 2000, George W. Bush, the governor of Texas, was elected to the presidency on a pro-border, pro-trade platform that included support for comprehensive immigration reform. Although I didn't vote for him, I was impressed by his respect for Mexico - and I know many Latinos here in El Paso who felt the same.
In 2016, though, many of those same voters fled the Republican Party and its candidate, Donald J. Trump. It's not just his pandering to anti-immigrant xenophobia, or his nonsensical wall. It's that we know, close up, the impact that the Trump agenda could have on our economy - here in El Paso and nationwide.
In the national imagination, visits to the border are like visiting a war zone, and politicians swarm to it for photo ops. Odd, then, that they don't come to a place like El Paso. If they did, they'd get a much different story. Contrary to the mythical border narrative, El Paso is one of the safest cities in America, with a thriving cross-border economy. (Of course, that didn't stop the Department of Homeland Security from recently announcing that El Paso would be one of the first sites for Trump's border wall - nor did the fact that El Paso already has a wall.)
Politicians from both sides also like to harp on the impact of the North American Free Trade Agreement, and cross-border trade generally, on our economy. And there's no denying that the advent of NAFTA cost Americans jobs and brought with it a host of economic and social challenges.
But again, they'd get a different story if they came to El Paso. We felt the blow swiftly and severely when manufacturing jobs left for Mexico. But El Paso adapted to make our location on the border work to our advantage - for example by building state-of-the-art shipment and distribution centers.
In El Paso alone, $90 billion in goods travels through our ports of entry annually (nationally, the value of cross-border trade is $400 billion). The El Paso-Santa Teresa, N.M., region has become the 11th-largest exporter of goods in the nation, and Mexico is Texas' No. 1 trading partner.
Unfortunately, too few Americans understand that cross-border trade creates jobs, not just in our region and state but in the rest of the country. In fact, trade with Mexico supports nearly 5 million American jobs - so it's not just the border that will lose if Trump fulfills his promises.
El Pasoans also know the cost that Trump's policies and rhetoric will have in terms of human capital. There's a moral case for humane immigration reform, but there's an economic one as well. So far Trump has said he will preserve protections for so-called Dreamers - immigrants living in the United States illegally who came to the country as children - but his blunt talk, and the stepped-up arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, say otherwise.
These young people have pursued an education in the United States, and they've helped us increase our local tax base. We've invested in them, and they are investing in our country. Over the next decade, if Dreamers are allowed to legally work in jobs that reflect their skill level, they will raise government revenues by $2.3 billion. El Paso stands to benefit enormously, but so does every state with a large Dreamer population.
While the wall may never be built, and while many immigrants living in the country without legal permission will remain - a lot depends on congressional purse strings - Trump's words are already having unmistakable economic consequences. The Mexican peso, for example, was dealt a heavy blow on election night, and its value has continued to plummet. That means that Mexicans will spend less money in El Paso and other border regions, which in turn decreases border communities' and states' revenues and jobs. Investments and the flow of commerce have also slowed significantly.
The question for many of us during the presidential election was whether communities like mine would hold 2016 general election candidates accountable. Would Hispanics in border communities reject the harmful anti-border and anti-Mexico rhetoric?
I can proudly say that El Paso did. Voter turnout in El Paso broke records - early voting and Election Day numbers soared, with a 32 percent increase in turnout, handily breaking the 2008 record locally. Hillary Clinton carried El Paso by a wider margin than Barack Obama did in 2008.
El Pasoans may have finally had enough of the misrepresentation of our people and communities and decided to create our own "border surge." That surge helped Clinton close the gap in Texas. In 2012, there was a 19-point spread between Obama and Mitt Romney in our state. In 2016, thanks to border communities like El Paso, it was shaved down to 9 points between Clinton and Trump - closer than Iowa!
While many of us have grown wearily accustomed to politicians' talk of "securing" the border, for many, this election became more about securing our identity. In the coming years, those of us who live on the border must rise above the bad policies that will hurt our communities - but more important, we must sustain and expand that sense of identity, and show our neighbors the impact their votes can have. We need to do it for El Paso, and for the country.
Escobar, a Democrat, is the El Paso County judge. This commentary was first published in the New York Times.
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China's government says it will support the World Trade Organization, arguing that an "open and unbiased" trading system benefits global economic growth and is in everyone's interest.
Beijing's comments come just a day after the Trump administration said it might not comply with WTO rulings it judged to violate American national sovereignty.
Wednesday, the administration sent its formal trade agenda to Congress and the document's authors pledged a "more aggressive" stance on trade issues. President Donald Trump has accused China of unfair trade practices, such as manipulating its currency and stealing U.S. trade secrets. He has also said he wants to renegotiate a free trade deal with Mexico and Canada.
Living a productive life with asthma isn't a new phenomenon, however Hollywood doesn't always do the best job of showcasing those with the chronic disease as the warriors they are.
Superdrug Online Doctor, an online medical platform, recently conducted a study to prove how off-base the stereotypes for people with asthma are.
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Surveying more than 2,000 participants, the firm found that more than 500 of the interviewees best described asthmatics as "weak," "tired" and "sickly." Furthermore, the group with the most negative perceptions were mainly young people (ages 18 to 29), non-asthmatics and people in their 30s to 60s.
Women proved to leave the least negative impressions.
But while these views couldn't be further from the truth, it's difficult to put all the blame on society, as Hollywood has played a major role in perpetuating these damaging stereotypes.
According to the study, people with asthma are rarely shown as protagonists in movies and television, and are often seen as the one "bullied by larger individuals due to their lack of physical prowess."
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Characters like Stevie from "Malcolm in the Middle," Wheezy from "Toy Story 2" and Albert from "Hitch" all fit the above description, which can potentially train viewers to see the ailment as a form of fragility.
But in contrast, entertainers like rocker Alice Cooper and legendary late actress Elizabeth Taylor both suffered from asthma and went on to be the cream of the crop in their respective fields, proving that the condition bears no weight on an individual's potential for success.
Some of the greatest athletes of all time like David Beckham and Mike Tyson both have asthma, and the late political leaders John F. Kennedy and Che Guevara also lived with the disease.
Mike Tyson lands a punch to Donovan Ruddock during the fight at Mirage Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mike Tyson won by a UD 12. (Photo by: The Ring Magazine/Getty Images)
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Jillian Johnson's son Landon died five years ago, but she's only talking about it now.
"I wanted to share for a long time about what happened to Landon, but I always feared what others would say and how Id be judged," Johnson wrote in a blog for The Fed Is Best Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on the complexities of infant feeding.
As a first-time mom, Johnson said she read every book and took every class she could, most of which emphasized the importance of breastfeeding. "Landon was on my breast ALL OF THE TIME," she wrote. "The lactation consultants would come in and see that 'he had a great latch and was doing fine' but there was one who mentioned I may have a problem producing milk."
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Johnson explained that the nurse was concerned about her PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) diagnosis, which makes it harder for mothers to produce milk. Instead of suggesting formula, the nurse recommended herbs to help with milk production.
"He cried unless he was on the breast and I began to nurse him continuously," Johnson recalled. On his first day of life Landon nursed for nine hours but within two days he lost nearly 10 per cent of his weight.
Did you know newborns arent supposed to cry all the time?," she wrote. "I had no idea that he was inconsolable because he was starving literally."
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While it is normal for breastfeeding babies to lose 10 per cent of their weight after birth what happened next was extremely rare. 12 hours after being discharged from the hospital at only 2.5-days-old Landon went into cardiac arrest caused by dehydration.
"I had no idea that he was inconsolable because he was starving literally."
Though Johnson's PCOS diagnosis may have affected her ability to produce milk, it can sometimes take between three and four days for breast milk to come in for first-time moms, midwife Emma Dufficy tells The Baby Centre. "You may have noticed that your breasts leaked a little milk during pregnancy. This is the rich, creamy first milk (colostrum) that's in your breasts from the middle of pregnancy. In the days before your milk comes in, this will provide your baby with all the nourishment she needs. Babies only need a few millilitres per feed at this early stage."
While Landon was on life support a NICU doctor told Johnson, "breast is best, but follow with the bottle." Landon was taken off life support 15 days later.
"I still have many, many days of guilt and questions what if I wouldve just given him a bottle? And anger because how would I have known," Johnson confessed.
According to Australian parenting website Kidspot.com, 1 in 5 infants are at risk of starvation as a result of being exclusively breastfed from birth.
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A virtual petition calling on the Liberal government to keep its promise to reform Canadas electoral system has formally closed this week with the signatures of more than 130,000 Canadians.
NDP MP Nathan Cullen who blasted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a liar last month for abandoning plans to move away from the first-past-the-post system released a statement Friday lauding the results.
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Cullen, his partys critic for democratic reform, sponsored e-petition 616 on behalf of Ontarian Jonathan Cassels last November. But the veteran MP from B.C. said in a release that it surged after Trudeau and new Democratic Institutions Minister Karina Gould broke the promise to reform Canadas system in time for the 2019 election.
The petition was originally launched to pressure the Liberals to keep their promise, Cullen said. But a few weeks after it was online the Liberals announced they would be breaking that key platform commitment, and thats when it went viral.
Cullen said E-616, with 130,498 signatures in total, is "one of the most signed petitions ever sent to the federal government."
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People are angry. They were told these Liberals were going to be different, that they would restore faith in our politics and our democracy, he said. The Liberals have chosen cynicism over doing what is right, and theyll have to answer to voters.
After Cullen tables a certified copy of the petition in the House of Commons, Liberals will have 45 days to provide a written response, which will be posted online.
The Liberals have chosen cynicism over doing what is right, and theyll have to answer to voters. Nathan Cullen
Trudeau and Gould have both argued that lengthy electoral reform consultations on the matter yielded no consensus on the best way to move forward. New Democrats have accused Liberals of taking a pass after the special all-party electoral reform committee provided a clear path to reform.
The committee recommended in December that the government create a proportional system and hold a national referendum to test support from Canadians. In perhaps the first sign that Liberals were poised to hit the brakes, Grits on the committee urged Trudeau to scrap his pledge.
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Trudeau has since said that a referendum would be too divisive for the country. He has also contended that a proportional system would elevate extremist voices in the Commons and appeared to blame New Democrats last month for being absolutely locked into proportional representation, no matter what, at any cost.
Those digs led NDP House Leader Murray Rankin to accuse the prime minister of spreading alternative facts.
Conservative immigration critic Michelle Rempel says people who illegally enter Canada from a safe country where they are not "facing direct persecution" should be charged.
And Rempel is calling on the Liberal government to state clearly if it believes the United States is a safe country.
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Rempel took to Facebook Friday to share her reaction to a report from The Globe and Mail that said the RCMP has yet to charge hundreds of asylum seekers who have come into Canada by foot in recent months to claim refugee status.
According to The Canadian Press, 435 people have crossed the Canada-U.S. border illegally in places such as Emerson, Man. since Jan. 1.
They have been arrested by the RCMP or local police and transferred to the Canada Border Services Agency for criminal background checks. CBSA then determines if they are eligible to make a refugee claim. If ineligible, a removal order is issued and they are released on condition they report for further removal proceedings.
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Persons coming from a safe country and not directly fleeing persecution should not be able to ignore our laws and enter Canada illegally, Rempel wrote. If they do, they should be charged.
Rempel said leaders across the political spectrum recognize the U.S. as one of the worlds most vibrant democracies.
The Globe reported that the RCMP aren't charging illegal border crossers. Here are my thoughts: https://t.co/kY7oh6h39x Michelle Rempel, MP (@MichelleRempel) March 3, 2017
It is not helpful for the Liberals to imply, through silence, that there is no penalty for crossing the border illegally, she said in her post. The Liberals need to firmly state whether they believe the US is a safe country or not and act accordingly.
While it is against the law to attempt to get into Canada outside an official border point, Section 133 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act makes an exception for asylum seekers.
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Nearly 1,700 people have also sought refugee protection at Canada-U.S. border crossings this year, compared to 728 people in the same period last year, CP reports.
The increasing number of claimants, as well as a loophole in the Safe Third Country Agreement between Canada and the U.S., have become hot topics for Conservative leadership hopefuls.
"It is not helpful for the Liberals to imply, through silence, that there is no penalty for crossing the border illegally."
The Safe Third Country Agreement spells out that asylum seekers must make their claim in the country in which they first arrived, but that only applies when claims are made at official border points. If asylum seekers reach Canadian territory, they are entitled to go through a claims process after being arrested because Canada is a signatory of the U.N. Refugee Convention.
At a Tory leadership debate in Edmonton this week, Kellie Leitch scored applause for saying those who cross the Canada-U.S. border illegally should be detained, questioned, and sent back to the United States immediately.
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Michael Chong called on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to delete a much-discussed "Welcome to Canada" tweet that he said indicated people could cross the border illegally.
And Chris Alexander, a former immigration minister, seemingly attempted to downplay the link being made between the spike in claimants and U.S. President Donald Trumps controversial bid to ban travellers from seven Muslim-majority nations.
Alexander said illegal, irregular, dangerous migration also happened when former U.S. president Barack Obama was in the White House.
People came to Canada, sometimes in large numbers. Did the media pay any attention at that time? People fleeing Obamas America? No, Alexander said. Theyre paying attention now for different reasons.
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Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale will head to Emerson Saturday to learn more about the situation.
With files from The Canadian Press
Also on HuffPost
The comment section can be a hotbed of opinion and attacks, filled with questions and rants from people who haven't actually read the article being discussed.
To stem the habit of readers preemptively commenting on articles before actually reading them, a Norwegian news site is now forcing users to pass a test before they drop their two cents.
NRKbeta, the tech offshoot of Norwegian public broadcaster NRK, launched the new feature last month. It requires readers to answer a few basic multiple-choice questions before leaving a comment.
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An algorithm randomizes questions for each user. The quiz tool was built by developer Henrik Lied using a Wordpress plugin, according to Nieman Lab.
Journalist Stale Grut says NRKbeta is hoping the quiz will help improve the comment section.
"Hopefully, it'll contribute to people making a bit of time to think about what they're going to write before they do it," Grut told CBC's As It Happens.
Editor Marius Arnesen told Nieman Lab while NRKbeta typically has a good comment section with dedicated readers, featured articles on the NRK homepage can generate a lot of unsavoury threads.
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Hopefully, it'll contribute to people making a bit of time to think about what they're going to write before they do it.
Arnesan told CNN a lot of site visitors read the headline of an article and rush to the comment section.
"The aim is to make people take 30 seconds before they comment, to take the edge off," he said.
To close or not to close comments?
NRKbeta is one of many news outlets looking to improve its articles by improving reader conversation.
In the U.S., the Boston Globe launched a Facebook group for subscribers to start discussions about everything from news coverage to crossword puzzles, interacting directly with reporters and customer service staff.
Meanwhile, Canada's largest daily newspaper, the Toronto Star, shut down its online comment section altogether. Other outlets including CBC News and the Toronto Sun have cut back on the number of stories it allows comments on.
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Wrapping his arms around an entrance pillar, he noted that the ever-changing city has a history of devouring its own landmarks. "There's so little of what we've known as iconic New York left, and as soon as you say the Waldorf Astoria, that's like saying the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty. It's huge!"
The exterior is protected by law as a New York City landmark, but some fans are still nervous about the future. "I've been watching New York disappear in front of my eyes," lamented Shade Rupe, 48, an author and actor who visited the hotel's lobby this week for one last look around.
When the building reopens it will still have a hotel, but hundreds of its 1,400 guest rooms will have been converted into privately owned condominiums, according to a spokesman for the Anbang Insurance Group, the Chinese company that bought the storied hotel for nearly $2 billion in 2015.
Wednesday was the last day that guests could enjoy the rich Art Deco style of the old Waldorf one last time.
The word "grand" matched few hotels in the world better than New York City's Waldorf Astoria, but this bastion of gilded splendor is now closing for two to three years for a makeover.
The Waldorf Astoria's history dates to 1893, but its original home was torn down to make way for the Empire State Building. The "new" Waldorf Astoria's more than 40 stories opened on Park Avenue in 1931, built at a cost topping $40 million ($639 million in today's dollars) making it one of the world's largest and most expensive hotels at the time.
It has welcomed well-heeled guests, including American presidents -- in the Presidential Suite, of course, behind bulletproof glass windows. Those who slept in luxury at the Waldorf over the years have included such celebrities as Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly and Cole Porter, who left his Steinway ivories behind. It was a regular stop for foreign heads of state, royalty and corporate kings. Long-term residents have included former Presidents Herbert Hoover and Dwight Eisenhower and U.S. General Douglas MacArthur.
The hotel also lent its name to the Waldorf salad, a mix of dressed apples, celery, grapes and walnuts that's become an American standard.
Plans for the renovation are still not finalized, but a New York-based Anbang representative said the new Waldorf would mirror the concept of New York's Plaza hotel, which was renovated a decade ago into a mix of private apartments and a smaller hotel. Anbang bought the Waldorf in 2015 from Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc., which continues to operate it.
"This can be a great real estate transaction, if they can get enough money selling the condominium units to cover the purchase price," said Bjorn Hanson, professor of hospitality and tourism management at New York University.
About 1,500 hotel employees are being laid off because of the closure. Two hotel regulars, Rebecca Ward, 50, and her fiance, Martin Murphy, 51, of Orlando, Florida, returned for two days before the closure to celebrate their engagement. Murphy proposed to Ward in front of the hotel's giant lobby clock a month earlier. "We wanted to stay here for the last night of the Waldorf," said Murphy.
As renovation starts, the city's Landmarks Preservation Commission must vote on whether to officially preserve certain interior details of the building, including the "wheel of life," created from 140,000 marble tiles, above the Park Avenue entrance; the grand ballroom; and the Art Deco lobby with its huge, chiseled tower supporting a diminutive Statue of Liberty. The exterior already is landmarked.
As for the upcoming changes under Chinese ownership, Ward said, "I'm very sad. I think this is an American institution and I think it should stay American." But the couple said the modernization wouldn't keep them from returning to the Waldorf when it reopened.
Viola Davis may be on cloud nine after winning her first Oscar for her role in "Fences," but the actress refuses to forget about her humble beginnings.
Opening up to People magazine for their latest cover story, Davis got personal as she revealed that her upbringing wasn't exactly easy.
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"I was the kind of poor where I knew right away I had less than everyone around me," she said. "Our environment, our physical space reflected our income."
"At home, the boards were coming off the walls, the 51-year-old later added. "Shoddy plumbing and no phone and no food and rats and all of that. That very much was visible to me."
But this isn't the first time the "How To Get Away With Murder" star has opened up about her childhood.
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Born in a one-room home in South Carolina, Davis' parents, who worked as sharecroppers, had trouble making ends meet, and as a result often couldn't afford to feed their six children.
"Most of the time, the school lunch was the only meal I had," Davis told AARP in 2015. "I would befriend kids whose mothers cooked three meals a day and go to their homes when I could."
She also explained how she used to go through garbage dumps and steal from grocery stores to get food.
As for her only childhood photo (seriously, there's just one), it now serves the actress as a reminder to always be grateful.
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The heartbreaking reason Viola Davis only has one photo of herself as a child https://t.co/quGBwLbwrLpic.twitter.com/rFPLo7Xm35 People Magazine (@people) March 2, 2017
Hundreds looked on as proud young men, decked out in crisp uniforms, led their parents onto the campus that will help unlock their future.
This January, the Kisaruni group of girls' schools in Kenya's Maasai Mara unveiled its first all-boys high school. After the opening ceremony, village elders christened it with a name. They chose Ngulot, Swahili for "strength." They want their sons to be as strong as their daughters.
Ngulot High School's first lesson: When empowering women, we must include men. Leading up to International Women's Day on March 8, it's a vital message.
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Sadly, women still march in the streets for the same fundamental rights men take for granted. In developing communities especially, huge gaps remain in areas like women's education, health and economic opportunity. Closing those gaps means creating resources, like all-girls' schools and female entrepreneurship programs. But equality is more than an economic problem; it involves changing minds.
In Canada, many men now march alongside women as allies, an act that helps shift social dynamics and recognizes gender equity as a human rights issue that effects everyone. This mindset shift is also crucial in developing communities.
"We must also empower men [...] to challenge prevailing norms and change their behaviors," writes Maria Correia, World Bank Manager for Social Development.
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Overlooking men can actually worsen inequality, according to a 2013 World Bank study that examined two decades of research on gender equity programs.
Before the boys' school, local community leaders like Willy Cheres were concerned about that very problem. Donors had lined up to fund two Kisaruni schools for girls, but there was little support to build a school for boys -- until Mitch Kurylowicz, a 12-year old from Ottawa, began raising funds in 2011 to address the gap.
"Our girls were rising up, but our boys were being left behind," says Cheres.
In the six years since its opening, Kisaruni has created new opportunities for girls, who now dream about becoming doctors and engineers. With men's traditional roles -- hunting, tending cattle -- dependent on a land threatened by climate change, boys too must be able to dream bigger. Otherwise, a generation of men will grow to resent female empowerment. Ngulot will create new opportunities.
The new school will also offer education about culture-specific gender norms.
Kurylowicz, now 18, says classes at Ngulot will include presentations from local mothers about their daily routines -- fetching water, cooking, collecting firewood -- and how these tasks contribute to their families and the community. Boys will be encouraged to take part in these chores, breaking down the social construct of "women's work."
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This isn't just boys taking home economics. Valuing unpaid household work, and sharing those jobs between genders, is critical to gender equity, according to the UN Secretary General's High-Level Panel on Women's Economic Empowerment.
If we're going to win the long-term battle for women's empowerment, we must ensure that girls and boys learn a new paradigm together, so that future teachers, leaders, presidents, farmers, and parents all support women's rights.
Craig and Marc Kielburger are the co-founders of the WE movement, which includes WE Charity, ME to WE Social Enterprise and WE Day.
Nova Scotia Provincial Judge Gregory Lenehan could likely have been the judge had my daughter Rehtaeh Parsons' case gone to court as a sexual assault trial while she was alive. Watching what unfolded in a Halifax courtroom this week is how that trial would have ended.
The case in Halifax can be summed up like this: on May 22, 2015, a young woman, 26, clearly intoxicated, gets in a cab after drinking with friends, passes out and urinates in her pants. At 1:20 a.m., Halifax Regional Police officers testified they saw the cab and it appeared "suspicious." One of the officers said she could see an unconscious female lying in the backseat, wearing only a pink tank top pulled up over her breasts. Her clothes and belongings were spread around inside the cab.
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The officers testified that the driver of the cab allegedly appeared to be trying to conceal the woman's underwear and noted that when he exited the cab, his pants were allegedly undone.
Bassam Al-Rawi was arrested at the scene and charged with sexual assault. This week he was acquitted of the charge when the Crown failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the woman did not consent to sexual activity.
You'd think this was as winnable as a sexual assault case can get. She was unconscious. The direct witnesses to what happened are two Halifax police officers. So, how do you get from him being caught literally pulling up his pants to a finding of not guilty of sexual assault?
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You turn "sexual assault" into "sex," add some alcohol, and spend the entire trial wondering if sex was or wasn't what she wanted.
The woman in Lenehan's case, due to her level of intoxication, remembers very little about the night. She can't even recall getting into the cab. Given that, how did Lenehan allow this case to become an issue of consent? Are we supposed to believe, for no reason, that the woman just happened to want to have sex with a complete stranger during a cab ride home?
Why did Judge Lenehan believe she was a willing participant in what happened at all? What made the starting point in this case consent and not the available evidence?
Alcohol and biased views did.
"Clearly, a drunk can consent." -- Nova Scotia Provincial Judge Gregory Lenehan
The defence argued she consented but forgot because she was too intoxicated (BTW -- being too intoxicated makes a person unable to consent). That's how the case went, and it went there only because Lenehan was willing to first believe this young intoxicated woman wanted to have sex with pretty much anyone.
That's old-dog thinking, and it's right there in his ruling. Lenehan noted that intoxication tends to reduce inhibition and "increase risk-taking behaviour."
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"This often leads to people agreeing and to sometimes initiate sexual encounters only to regret them later when they are sober," Lenehan said. You couldn't put victim blaming more blatantly in a courtroom like that if you used spray paint.
Lenehan stated that, "In testimony, [the woman] could not provide any information, any details on whether she agreed to be naked in the taxi or initiated any sexual activity. The Crown failed to produce any evidence of lack of consent at any time."
In other words, with no evidence either way with the exception of DNA and two police eyewitnesses, the case rested entirely on Lenehan's personal opinion of women and alcohol.
"Clearly, a drunk can consent," is how that ended. I've talked to kids in Grade 8 with a better grasp of consent than that.
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There's no doubt the complainant was unconscious when she was found by police so at that moment she was unable to consent, Lenehan ruled -- but added that it's "important" to know exactly when she passed out.
No, what's important is finding out how Lenehan concluded she was consenting in the first place.
If sexual assault charges were laid in Rehtaeh's case while she was alive, that case may very well have ended up in Judge Lenehan's courtroom. I can't imagine how she'd react to a man sitting behind a bench telling her he's not sure when she stopped consenting to having sex with four boys she didn't even know while vomiting, and that as a result his verdict is a finding of not guilty.
When consent was allowed to be entered as a defence, as in the Halifax case, it opened a door to Lenehan's outdated myths and stereotypes about women and drinking. In order to rule in the defendant's favour, the judge first had to believe that an average, everyday 26-year-old Canadian woman would head downtown for a few drinks with friends and have sex with the cab driver right at the moment she passed out and peed her pants in what was supposed to be a safe ride home.
When it comes to an unconscious woman, despite this ridiculous ruling, consent can't be present.
The reality is she headed downtown with some friends and woke up in an ambulance.
Rehtaeh went to a sleepover and woke up suicidal.
Neither deserves, or would have deserved, their cases being influenced or judged by such an awful opinion of women.
A photograph of Rehtaeh being raped wasn't enough. Two police officers catching a man sexually assaulting an unconscious woman wasn't enough.
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It isn't enough because these cases weren't judged based on the evidence, they were judged based on an outdated view of women and alcohol.
What happened in Halifax is but an example of what's wrong with our criminal justice system -- it turns "sexual assault" into "sex" and debates consent the entire trial while not once stopping to ask, "Does it make sense to anyone that this woman, in this state, would consent to having sex with anyone, let alone a total stranger?"
Judge Gregory Lenehan believed it made sense and, in essence, gave consent on a young woman's behalf to something she doesn't even remember.
Lenehan added that, "A lack of memory does not equate to a lack of consent."
A lack of memory does not equate to a lack of consent? Consent isn't about what's lacking, it's about what's present. When it comes to an unconscious woman, despite this ridiculous ruling, consent can't be present.
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Kind of like how the Criminal Code of Canada says you can't give consent on behalf of someone else.
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As Elder Clarence Wolfleg sat and dedicated the teepee recently at Mount Royal University in Calgary, he said to all of us, "We have to bring our children home, so that they no longer need to be afraid."
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was dedicated to the "Child that was taken and the parent left behind." The Commissioners rightly chose to place reforms to the Child Welfare system as the very first section of their Calls to Action. The percentage of indigenous children in foster care right now is staggering -- almost 50 per cent of all kids in care -- even though indigenous people represent only four per cent of the population of Canada. In fact there are more First Nations children and youth in foster care now than at the height of residential schools.
Children are being taken from their families and their communities and removed from their language and culture.
Our government has set aside $200-million this year to end discrimination against First Nations children in our child welfare system -- and Budget 2016 committed to increasing that amount for the next five years. Next year we are investing almost $250-million to end discrimination.
But putting more money into the existing system simply isn't enough. The system is broken and needs to be overhauled.
The fact is the current system discriminates against First Nations children. Children are being taken from their families and their communities and removed from their language and culture. The children suffer as do the parents and communities.
As Grand Chief Ed John exposed in his recent report on Indigenous child welfare in B.C., there are many perverse incentives in the system. It is just not right that the more children that are apprehended -- the more money the agencies receive. We need to turn this around, the funding needs to go to supporting families and their communities instead of an army of lawyers retained to apprehend children.
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And with dire consequences.
I have been honoured to be a part of the Feathers of Hope recent annual summit where youth share their experiences in the child welfare system with one another and, at the end of the week, present to leaders of Child Welfare Agencies and other decision-makers; a chance for experts to hear from those who have lived the experience.
The stories these young people shared were heartbreaking. They felt they were just a "meal-ticket," extra revenue for an urban family. One described being placed with three other "kids-in-care" as unpaid farm-hands. One told his story of running away to find his sibling who had been placed in another family 100 km away. Many shared stories of being told their indigenous culture was inferior to the religion of their foster-care household.
It was so upsettingly similar to the testimony we had heard during the Truth and Reconciliation Commission from survivors about their experience in residential schools.
Throughout our gatherings on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, we heard consistently about the intergenerational effects of residential schools. We heard about child abuse and the impact of the child welfare system on both victims and perpetrators. Hurt people hurt people. Child abuse leads to anger and shame, which leads often to addictions, violence, and suicide or incarceration.
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We must put resources into communities to address healing needs, and prevent children entering "the system" at all.
There has been an unconscionable disconnect between the federal government, who funds the child welfare system for First Nations children, and the provinces and territories and agencies who deliver it. This has meant too many federal dollars are being used to remove children from their families and their communities; federal dollars resulting in children losing their personal and cultural identity instead of promoting and protecting it; federal dollars delivering unacceptable outcomes for indigenous children.
I believe the federal government needs to be accountable for the results. Too many indigenous children are taken into care, too many are harmed and too many have died.
In January 2016 we welcomed the decision of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal. Our government committed to fully implementing its orders, and to working with First Nations' leadership, front line workers, provinces and experts to refocus our efforts on improving the well-being of every indigenous child and to deliver the essential reforms.
The Ministerial Special Representative, Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, is travelling from coast to coast to coast listening to youth who have aged out of care, First Nation communities, agencies and experts to ensure reforms will respect the local wisdom and knowledge and reflect different regional needs. There is a common message: We must focus on the well-being of indigenous children and youth and the young people ageing out of the system. We must focus on results. We must put resources into communities to address healing needs, and prevent children entering "the system" at all.
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Some communities such as Beausoleil First Nation are able to deal with child well-being issues within their own community. No children are taken away. Other communities are heartbroken so many children are apprehended and taken away, contributing to more family vulnerability. There are best and promising practices; Kinship care, customary care, the Maori Family Conferencing model. The status quo is unacceptable and there is huge willingness to make the necessary changes.
A decade after the launch of the Tribunal hearings, it's important to take stock. We believe we have made significant progress. The Canada Child Benefit is lifting children out of poverty. Historic investments in housing and indigenous education, especially the language and culture component are important. There is a genuine commitment to promote healing in families and raise children in their communities as proud indigenous people. By changing the definition of Jordan's Principle in July, more than 3200 First Nations children with special needs are now receiving the care they need.
Going forward, we will ensure the voices of children and youth are heard. They are courageous. They are telling us their truths. As has been said -- once you know the truth, you can't 'unknow' the truth. The children and youth are counting on us to make things right, so the truths for their children, and for their grandchildren will be proud and healthy indigenous families and communities.
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Last week, the Quebec government announced a handful of measures designed to, among other things, encourage companies to keep their head offices in the province. The predictable response from certain quarters: The rich need to fund more, not less, of our public expenditures through higher taxes.
The measures announced include tax relief for the transfer of businesses to family members, tax payment deferrals when selling shares of a listed company, and raising the tax deduction for capital gains from 25 to 50 per cent, bringing it in line with the rest of Canada. There's also a task force to monitor markets and try to prevent hostile takeovers of Quebec companies.
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While the business community overwhelmingly applauded the announced changes, several prominent Quebec politicians condemned them. The Leader of the Official Opposition, Jean-Francois Lisee, said that Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard was giving the wealthiest members of society a "gift." Quebec solidaire MNA Amir Khadir, for his part, thought that the changes showed that the government was working "for a minority of exceptionally wealthy people."
Regardless of the specific merits of each of the measures announced, some part of the predictable opposition aroused by them is due to a knee-jerk, anti-rich bias that remains all too common. Some of this bias is itself due to the notion that the wealth of the rich comes at the expense of the poor. Yet nothing could be further from the truth.
Keeping the rich from buying that second SUV contributes nothing constructive to serious discussions of public policy.
In the past, it's true, conquest was often a source of riches, and these were indeed stolen from the conquered. And today, crony capitalists who survive on government handouts and privileges are guilty of a form of legalized theft of taxpayers' hard-earned cash.
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But to assume that the poor always suffer when the rich get richer is to assume that there is a fixed amount of wealth in the world, a fixed pie. There isn't, and much of the wealth that exists today was created, without harming anyone, through hard work and innovation.
The CEOs of companies that provide the best goods and services they can, at prices people want to pay, are not robbing anyone. On the contrary, by running successful companies, they are providing value for a wide range of people, including their customers, their employees, their suppliers and their investors. The fact that they themselves should share in the wealth they've created is entirely appropriate.
And it's not as if the wealthy did not already pay a disproportionately large amount of taxes. According to the latest edition of the Bilan de la fiscalite au Quebec, the richest one per cent of taxpayers may earn 10 per cent of total income, but they pay 17 per cent of all personal income tax collected by the provincial government.
Having competitive tax policies that encourage wealthy individuals who own and run businesses to keep those businesses here -- and keep paying taxes here -- is good for all Quebecers. It helps grow the pie, and when the pie gets bigger, everyone can end up earning bigger and bigger slices.
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Those who still think that with a growing pie and bigger slices for all, that some slices are just too big and no one should have them, are not really concerned about helping the less fortunate. They are more concerned with keeping the rich from buying that second SUV and stoking people's envy, which contributes nothing constructive to serious discussions of public policy.
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by Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of Oxfam International
A brave woman was taken from us a year ago. Berta Caceres was shot and killed in the middle of the night by assassins for opposing an illegitimate hydroelectric project which threatened her people's way of life and violated international human rights law. Her family, her fellow indigenous rights activists at COPINH, and the international community is still watching and waiting for justice to be done.
Berta's murder drew international attention and condemnation. Facing mounting criticism and outrage, Honduran authorities were left with no choice but to act. In the last 12 months, they've made several arrests, including of the alleged gunmen and other individuals linked to DESA, the construction company behind the Agua Zarca project.
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But her family and her colleagues know that the trail does not end there. We at Oxfam continue to stand by them and demand that those behind her murder be found and brought to justice.
The international human rights watchdog, Global Witness, recently published an investigation into Berta's murder, where they revealed deep links between DESA, the Honduran military and others. Berta and her allies were taking on powerful, rich, and well-connected interests by opposing the Agua Zarca project.
This kind of activism is dangerous and, as we saw with Berta, can be fatal. Just in Honduras, at least 109 land defenders were killed between 2010 and 2015. For women, the risks skyrocket. Patriarchal cultural norms still rule over large swaths of Latin America, and women who defy them are ostracized and face very real threats of violence.
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The rate of violence against women and girls in Honduras is intolerably high. A report published by the country's major newspapers, La Prensa, showed that in the last decade, over 4,500 women have been killed, and over 85 per cent of these crimes went unpunished. In 2014, the prominent activist Margarita Murillo was shot and killed. Her murder remains unsolved.
I visited Berta's family in La Esperanza last year and was left humbled and amazed by their courage. Berta was never deterred by the death threats she received. Likewise, her family refuses to live in fear and carries on her work to improve their country and the world.
They've seen first-hand how extractive industries, big agribusinesses and tourism companies are richly rewarded for their destructive policies; how money corrupts politicians and institutions, and how all this leads to rampant economic inequality and gross human rights abuses.
Inequality is inextricably linked with distribution of land and natural resources. Latin America and the Caribbean is the most unequal region in the world; it's no surprise that just one per cent of "super farms" here have as much farmland as the other 99 per cent.
With enough pressure, things can change.
It's good news, then, that the plights and rights of indigenous people, Afro-descendants and other communities are in the general public's consciousness now more than ever.
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Pope Francis, a powerful ally in our fight against inequality and poverty, recently met in Rome with indigenous leaders from around the world and in no uncertain terms said that communities have a right to decide what gets built and what doesn't on their lands. Governments should take heed.
In the United States, the Dakota Access Pipeline brought together thousands of activists who braved the freezing cold and stood in solidarity with Native American tribes opposing the project.
Finally, hundreds of civil society groups, academics and other international organizations, including Oxfam, have joined the Land Rights Now campaign to push governments to legally protect these rights.
With enough pressure, things can change; the Agua Zarca project is currently suspended after Oxfam and others lobbied the financiers to back off the project.
Berta was murdered the day before her 45 birthday. She spent a great part of her life defending the rights of her people. Her cause is our cause. A year later, we honour her, and again demand justice for her, her family and her people.
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Oxfam believes that discrimination against women from heinous forms of violence to unequal access to land or public services constitute the most widespread and systemic forms of human rights violations around the world. Women's rights are at the heart of everything we do.
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India's Swachh Bharat sanitation campaign has triggered many novel schemes aiming to improve the country's sanitation. Now, tech giant Google has joined the battle to clean up India's toilet habits, by mapping public toilets. Anil Cherukupalli, Media and Communications Manager at WaterAid India, put the app to the test.
India has the dubious distinction of being home to the most number of open defecators, a whopping 560 million of them, in the world! The country also has the highest number of urban dwellers in the world (more than 157 million) without access to safe, private toilets.
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Child from Mahadev Pura village in India. The village is now open defecation free with all households owning a toilet and using them appropriately.
But India is seemingly entering a golden age of sanitation. Airwaves and public spaces across the country are inundated with messages urging everyone to keep their surroundings clean, build toilets and help end open defecation. Governments across the country are on a mission to build millions of toilets to make India open defecation free by 2019. Toilets, cleanliness and sanitation have suddenly become buzzwords. This is largely due to the Government's flagship Swachh Bharat (Clean India) campaign, which has brought a much-needed spotlight to the dismal state of sanitation in the country.
This massive campaign has led to many interesting ideas coming to the fore to help improve India's sanitation situation. From promotion of low-cost toilet technologies to hiring distinctive mascots to deter people from open defecation and urination in Delhi, governments, NGOs and the media across India are all doing their bit to solve the complex challenges of ending open defecation and encouraging people to use toilets and adopt hygienic practices.
Google maps toilets
Recently, global search giant Google also threw its strength behind this endeavour. In partnership with the federal government's Ministry of Urban Development it has launched a toilet search feature in its popular app Google Maps. The idea is to make searching for a toilet as easy as searching for a restaurant, bank or petrol station. Initially launched in the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), it is expected to be rolled out in phases to cover other Indian cities.
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At first glance, this is one of those simple ideas that makes you wonder why no one thought of it before. Finding a clean and hygienic public toilet in India is almost as difficult as trying to find water on Mars! Public toilets are usually very poorly maintained and not easily accessible. It gets even worse when one is traveling. On Indian highways, toilets are mostly found in petrol stations or in restaurants, where maintenance is again a hit or miss affair, mostly a miss in reality.
Women line up outside the community toilet, restored with support from WaterAid and the HSBC Water Programme in India.
Women especially bear the brunt of this lack of clean public toilets as many public toilets are too dirty or unhygienic to use or lack water or do not offer adequate privacy with broken doors or latches. This compels them to either restrict their water or food intake or risk open urination and defecation, all of which can lead to adverse health outcomes. A recent study found that open defecation by pregnant women leads to a higher risk of adverse birth outcomes in India.
Crowd-sourcing cleanliness
The Google Maps public toilet search feature will primarily rely on crowd-sourced data for opening hours and cleanliness status of the toilets. Allowing users to share this information will hopefully help keep the feature up-to-date and reliable, and help people to choose whether to use a particular facility or not. It may also help push providers of such facilities, whether publicly or privately owned, to offer easily accessible and cleaner toilets.
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However, like all new technology initiatives in a country where only a few affluent sections of society have access to smart phones and internet, how effective this feature will be in practice remains to be seen.
I decided to try out the feature from two locations. The first location was Sector 63 of Noida, a burgeoning satellite city adjoining Delhi in the neighbouring state of Uttar Pradesh. Sector 63 primarily consists of offices of small- and medium-scale firms. When I searched Google Maps for a public toilet there, the nearest available was shown to be about 3.5km away, 15 minutes to drive or about 45 minutes to walk. Other toilets shown were further away. Although opening hours were listed for almost all of them, reviews and photos were practically non-existent.
For my second search I chose my place of work -- the WaterAid India office, in south Delhi. The closest public toilet was shown to be about seven minutes away on foot, but the photo of the exterior did not mark it out to be well maintained. Other toilets listed were further away. At this location, a few of the toilets also carried user reviews and photos.
Although I could not go and check any of the toilets, it was good to see the search at least working and throwing up some options. However, the distances involved in most cases were not very practical to compel their use. There is a need for provision of more public toilets in India's cities and towns. If more toilets begin to show up and at closer distances the search feature will become more practical to use.
But how to reach everyone?
To reach everyone this feature should be available to slum residents too, those who are mostly dependent on community toilets. The issue is access for people who cannot afford smartphones or access the internet. Perhaps Google could address this by starting another pilot project to provide inexpensive smartphones in public and community toilets and encourage people to use them to rate the toilets immediately after use, displaying the ratings prominently on the toilets themselves as well as online.
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Ratings to improve
Ultimately, the toilet search feature will work best when large numbers of people, including poor people, can use it to push for improvement of public and community toilet facilities by regular sharing of ratings and photos. This would put pressure on those providing or managing those toilets to make them better.
While it is still early days, with increasing usage by people from different sections of the society the feature might become more reliable and accurate over time. But it should not become yet another technology feature that is available to only those on the right side of the digital divide. The true success of this feature will be when the poor, the marginalised, women and people with disabilities can make use of it to demand safe, clean, reliable and accessible toilet facilities in their localities.
By Anil Cherukupalli , Media and Communications Manager at WaterAid India. He tweets as @anilcheruk.
POOL New / Reuters
There seems to be a good deal of disagreement about whether Donald Trump became president on Inauguration Day, 20 January 2017 or days ago on February 28th in his Joint Address to Congress. It could not have been so on the first occasion, the story goes, because the sound of doom, gloom and carnage which pervaded the inaugural address was so unlike any before, and was not seen as 'presidential'. However, the other night before Congress, Trump struck a lighter note, read correctly from the teleprompter and stuck to script, quoting from the Bible and invoking the memory of a fallen hero, Navy Seal Ryan Owens, killed on 29 January in a special forces raid in Yemen. That moment of recognition of his wife's loss managed to tease out every ounce of pain and sorrow from the hero's grieving widow for that tragic loss, and from those watching, to maximum emotional effect. However you view the means and purpose of this way of honouring the hero, it was heart-breaking.
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Following the address, pundits rushed to dissect the address including well-respected activist and commentator Van Jones on CNN , who intoned effectively that Trump "became president of the United States in that moment, period", when he lead that two minute standing ovation. Many viewers begged to differ with that pronouncement tweeting their disagreement, causing Van Jones to further explain himself and elaborate on what he really meant. You need to hear it to get it, but at least he knew what he was trying to say.
Yet, whether you think the president is a Wolf of Wall Street in sheep's clothing, or is on the right track and 'presidential', this brings me to my next point.
Whilst Democrats sat stony faced in the audience, many congresswomen dressed in white representing the Suffragettes, and honouring women's rights, Speaker of the House Republican Paul Ryan declared the Congressional address to be absolutely a "home run".
Which president did you see? Was the channel setting of your vision tuned to "shock, horror, who is he kidding?" or to "this is the president we have been waiting for"?
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Because it is obvious we are all not seeing and hearing the same thing, no matter what it is, these days. Listening to the Trump team of Sean Spicer, Kellyanne and Reince Priebus, we are experiencing the craziest case of cognitive dissonance since the dawn of time. We are being told not just what is the truth about what we read and hear but what we actually see. Because if, for example you saw with your own eyes lots of empty spaces in the Mall on Inauguration Day, then you saw wrongly. Get some glasses.
So, as night follows day, after watching Trump's address to Congress, we hear one version of what it was, how it was and what it meant, coming from the left and quite another coming from the right. And some commentators, trying to be fair and balanced, are not sure what to make of it at all. Has the President done a pivot? Has he become presidential? To the right, this was a home run, and to the left there were 51 lies told in 61 minutes.
If the progressive's fears are true that Trump's policies will poison America's waterways, hasten climate change, design immigration reform that is divisive and exclusive, build a wall, deport thousands, cause tens of millions to lose healthcare coverage, and starve state schools, etc....only time will tell. At this point we just cannot know. Supporters and protesters will continue to have eyes tuned to different channels, seeing and foreseeing different things, in speeches, policies and their effects. But one thing is true:
History, and time, will judge the real Donald Trump. Like being in the midst of a tsunami, we can't know the full extent of the damage, of the good or bad that took place, til after the storm has passed. .. and sometimes for a very long time. Unless we can discern with a very keen eye, we cannot see the forest from the trees. Some people at the time thought Hitler was a good guy (see David Lloyd George) and some people thought Gandhi was very bad (ask his assassin).
MLK has said, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice". Whether we think that is true or not, it is a fact that the long arc of history will eventually unveil the truth of these times. The good or bad that has been done to hasten or impede the progress of the United States, Europe and humanity as a whole, will be known, will be in textbooks, documented , studied by children and eventually, more fully understood, even if, as is often the case, after the fact.
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Imgorthand via Getty Images
It terrifies me to say this, but in 10 year's time, my son will be leaving school.
Over this period, the UK will set sail for the economic unknown and leave its European Union membership behind; technology too will bring further, seismic changes to the world of work.
In this context, what is the one thing that matters to today's eight year olds?
Twenty years ago, New Labour swept to power with the mantra 'education, education, education.' Ever since then, the UK has been spending an increasing proportion of its national wealth on schools and funding has largely kept pace with increasing pupil numbers and rising costs.
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Even as recently as 2015, politicians felt the need to reassure parents of their commitment to education. The last Conservative Party Manifesto, published only two years ago, said 'Under a future Conservative Government, the amount of money following your child into school will be protected. As the number of pupils increases, so will the amount of money in our schools.'
All well and good, but the government of Theresa May is reneging on this promise.
According to the a report published by the Institute for Fiscal Studies this week, under current government spending plans, by the time my son is in the final year of his primary education in 2020, his school will be receiving 300 less per pupil per year. This represents a real terms annual cut of around 60,000 for his school. That is approximately one whole teacher's salary plus costs or probably a couple of valuable teaching assistants.
The picture is worse for secondary schools. According to the IFS, by 2019/20 they will face real terms cuts of 400 per pupil per year. In a report published last year, the government's own auditors, the National Audit Office, published projections that forecast an 8% real terms cut in school funding over the same period of time once unavoidable factors like increasing pupil numbers and rising costs are taken into account.
Despite its manifesto promises, the Conservative government, elected in 2015 on the promise that 'the amount of money following your child into school will be protected' is cutting funding for our children. At any moment in history, that would anger parents, but in the current political context it is reckless and shoddy.
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But real terms budget cuts over the next three years are only half of the story, because on top of that, the government is also proposing to change the formula by which the funding of specific schools is determined. Their consultation proposes to shift funding away from schools in metropolitan areas and into shire counties.
Schools in cities, where educating children is often more expensive anyway, therefore face a horrific double whammy. Not only will they have to cut the NAO's estimated 8% from their core budgets, but they will also have to find further savings of up to 3% because of the changes to the funding formula.
I doubt any parent or education authority in a city is against the idea of county schools getting more funding, but to achieve this by taking money away from children in cities is truly gruesome. And the fact is that county schools will not emerge as winners anyway. They will receive a boost from the proposed funding formula change, but that will be more than wiped out by the core budget cuts.
Every child in England faces a poorer education unless the Government changes its plans fast. And every parent in England should be angry. Increasingly they are.
Campaigning groups are popping up all over the country, often led by angry and determined parents. The Department for Education faces a deluge of responses from hoards of middle class families who rightly don't want their children to be the first in two generations to face school budget cuts.
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On Tuesday night, the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, which has launched a valiant Support our Schools campaign, filled its largest conference room with hundreds of mums and dads from the borough. There were jeers and cheers as councillors ran through the facts and urged people to become active.
A fellow parent, playing devil's advocate, asked me whether the real terms reductions mattered now after two decades of sustained investment in schools. The answer is a simple yes.
Of course it's hard to account for every pound, but the evidence is pretty clear. It's there factually and anecdotally and in improved school leadership, better facilities and in particular in the 170,000 thousand teaching assistants who now provide indispensable support to our children - especially the most vulnerable. And it's there in the results.
United States citizens should be denied visa-free access to the European Union before summer because Washington does not allow some EU nationals to enter there without visa, EU lawmakers said in a vote on Thursday.
The European Parliament vote is set to put pressure on the European Commission, the EU's executive, to enforce a one-year suspension as a tit-for-tat measure for Washington's denial of visa-free access to citizens of Poland, Croatia, Cyprus, Romania and Bulgaria, all members of the 28-country bloc.
A Commission official said contacts are ongoing with the U.S. administration "to push for full visa reciprocity," but fell short of saying that immediate action will be taken.
Throwing caution to the wind, I'm going to jump in here, because there's a lot of misinformation around on both sides of this issue.
In short, last May, the Obama Justice and Education departments put out a joint letter telling schools what they had to do about transgender students in order to conform to Title IX protections. Title IX is about not allowing schools to discriminate on the basis of sex. Here's a Wikilink for you if you want to know more about it.
The joint letter, which is a "non-legal binding guideline", tells schools that for the purposes of Title IX, they are going to treat discrimination on the basis of gender identity as a subset of discrimination on the basis of sex. "Non-legal" means that it isn't the result of a law being passed. "Binding guideline" means that they're telling you the interpretation of an already existing law that's going to be used from now on.
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If you'd like to see the whole letter, it's here. I looked it up, because it seems to me that most people only know about this what they've read online, and leftist sources are saying, "It's defending the poor kids", and rightist sources are saying, "It's shoving an agenda down our throats", and both sides are kind of stupid if they don't actually look to see what the letter said.
First of all, it's not just about bathrooms. It's also about access to gender-segregated classes. If there's a boys-only class, can the child be in it or not? Ditto for girls-only classes. But it's the bathrooms and locker rooms that have people all up in arms, because no one wants their little girl to have to go into a locker room with other kids who have penises. And I know, there are people on the far left who say that this is judgmental. Fine. But it's normal.
Here's the money quote from the letter:
The Departments interpret Title IX to require that when a student or the student's parent or guardian, as appropriate, notifies the school administration that the student will assert a gender identity that differs from previous representations or records, the school will begin treating the student consistent with the student's gender identity. Under Title IX, there is no medical diagnosis or treatment requirement that students must meet as a prerequisite to being treated consistent with their gender identity. Because transgender students often are unable to obtain identification documents that reflect their gender identity (e.g., due to restrictions imposed by state or local law in their place of birth or residence), requiring students to produce such identification documents in order to treat them consistent with their gender identity may violate Title IX when doing so has the practical effect of limiting or denying students equal access to an educational program or activity.
Basically, no standard whatsoever exists for a claim of having a different gender identity. A student can literally, according to this guideline, walk into school one day, go to the office and say, "I'm a boy now" or "I'm a girl now", without changing anything about themselves, and the school has to accept it or be in violation of Title IX. A boy can have facial hair and look like a jock, but if he says he's a girl, everyone has to go along with it. A girl can wear dresses and makeup every day, but if she says she's a boy, that's it.
Of course that's not what sane people who care about the welfare of trans kids want. And it's not what children who are actually transsexual would do. But the Obama administration pushed this thing to the furthest extreme possible. They could have put in criteria for determining if someone is just messing around or is the real deal, but since the modern "trans" agenda is more about breaking down societal gender norms and less about actual people with actual gender dysphoria who actually need to transition, they didn't do that.
So the Trump administration issued a new letter that withdraws the one from the Obama administration. But here's the money quote from that one:
These guidance documents do not, however, contain extensive legal analysis or explain how the position is consistent with the express language of Title IX, nor did they undergo any formal public process. ... In addition, the Departments believe that, in this context, there must be due regard for the primary role of the States and local school districts in establishing educational policy. In these circumstances, the Department of Education and the Department of Justice have decided to withdraw and rescind the above-referenced guidance documents in order to further and more completely consider the legal issues involved. The Departments thus will not rely on the views expressed within them. Please note that this withdrawal of these guidance documents does not leave students without protections from discrimination, bullying, or harassment. All schools must ensure that all students, including LGBT students, are able to learn and thrive in a safe environment.
This isn't going to get President Trump chosen as Grand Marshall for this year's Pride Parade, but it's also not exactly the "lynch the trannies" position that the anti-Trump folks are painting it as. And they should consider that if the Obama administration had gone less bonkers to the extreme left, this act by the Trump administration might never have been necessary. I hope that the Trump administration will issue a new guideline that's more moderate than the gonzo Obama one.
Isabel Infantes/EMPICS Entertainment
We are all now Brexiteers since the referendum vote last year - but democracy didn't stop on the 23rd June 2016 just because those in favour of the hardest form of Brexit wish it was so.
Scrutiny and debate - in parliament, in the media, and even in the House of Lords - is as important as ever since we face so many uncertainties in the years ahead.
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Most of the uncertainties are around how we will prosper economically - and this will surely have serious implications for many people in this country if we don't prosper in trade with other countries.
If the economy shrinks because we do not have favourable trading terms with other countries then the Government will have less money coming in and there will be less money to pay for all the things we expect our taxes to pay for - for benefits payments for the most vulnerable; for the NHS; for the armed forces and all the other services we rely on.
The Brexit leaders want the UK to not only leave the EU but also the single market and the customs union. This would remove all the trading advantages we currently enjoy with the EU - the advantages which surely helped become the 5th largest economy in the world.
Of course everything may turn out well - other countries outside of the EU might be very keen to make advantages trade deals with us - ones that help us prosper. But surely no one actually knows that will happen because until we leave the EU and know how that will look we can't even start negotiating trade deals with other countries.
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It looks like we will be very keen to make a trade deal with Donald Trump's administration - the one that is going to put 'America First'. Judging by Theresa May's visit to Turkey we will also have to rely on some benevolence from Turkey's President Erdogan - this the man busily closing down free speech in his own country. Again none of this means that things will work out badly for us post Brexit - but it surely means there will be a great deal of uncertainty and no one really knows what will happen.
So, instead of any certainty, what we are left with is waffle and hopeful statements from people like Boris Johnson and Michael Gove about our economic future. In reply to warnings about the Government's Brexit strategy by former Prime Minister Sir John Major Johnson said "I think it's very important that as we set out in this journey we are positive about the outcome for the the very good reason the outcome will be fantastic for this country" Michael Gove has made similarly optimistic comments. In April last year Gove said "Those of us who want to leave believe that Britain's best days lie ahead, that our country has tremendous untapped potential which independence would unleash."
So according to people like Boris Johnson and Michael Gove - there is no uncertainty - there is no doubt - our future is going to be 'fantastic'.
Are their words of optimism so reassuring that we should just let them get on with the hardest of Brexits - without challenge or debate?
Obviously the answer is no. Given the track record of these two we should be very slow to bet our economic future on their blind optimism - especially given their lack of success in becoming the leader of their own Party and how they cocked that up.
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As I approach the final weeks of Year 13 and struggle through the last push for A-levels, my friends and I have been reflecting on our years at my school with a deep sense of nostalgia. We're grateful to our teachers and classmates, for the memories and opportunities.
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Something else we should be thankful for, but which often skips our minds, is the standard of Sex and Relationships Education (SRE) we've received. It can seem a bit weird to show gratitude for the awkward biology videos and the demonstrations of applying condoms by embarrassed teachers, but it's something that we've probably taken for granted.
Fortunately, I've been taught about a range of topics from contraception to healthy and equal relationships which I know has been a massive privilege that's prepared me well for the future.
However, high quality SRE should not be a privilege. It should be a right to ensure that every young person can make safe and responsible decisions about their own bodies and lives and respect and care for others in equal relationships.
I know other students who've not been fully-informed about STDs, not been told about the options they have if they become pregnant and who see controlling and manipulative behaviours from partners as 'normal.' High quality SRE seems to be a luxury only available to young people by the grace of switched-on school leaders and that is like treating autonomy over our health and wellbeing as a luxury.
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As the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK, Girlguiding amplifies the voices of young women. I am part of the Girlguiding Advocate Panel, a group of young women aged 14-25, who campaign for the rights of young women in the UK. Since 2014, we have been calling for high quality SRE as part of Girls Matter, our campaign to get girls and young women's voices heard by those in power on the issues that matter to them.
Girlguiding's annual Girls' Attitudes Survey collects the views of thousands of young women, aged 7 to 21, across the UK and provides evidence for what young people actually care about.
Only 49% of girls aged 11 to 16 say they are taught what consent means - even though 84% of girls feel that education on this subject is vital. Our research also showed how three quarters of girls (74%) aged 11 to 21 want SRE to be taught in schools.
The news then from Justine Greening that Sex and Relationships Education will be made compulsory for all schools across England is obviously brilliant to hear.
In her statement, Greening said that "The statutory guidance for sex and relationships education was introduced in 2000 and is becoming increasingly outdated. It fails to address risks to children that have grown in prevalence over the last 17 years, including cyber bullying, 'sexting' and staying safe online."
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It was a comfort to hear that the redundant nature of the previous policy will be addressed and it gives me hope that younger pupils will receive better- because frankly, they deserve better.
All of us on the Girlguiding Advocate Panel were ecstatic when we found out about the Government's decision, mainly because it demonstrated how those leading the country had actually listened to young people and had finally acted on what we had to say. It proves that campaigning works and that when girls speak out together they have the power to make positive change happen.
However, we're not going to quieten down now. We need to make sure the education students receive is up to date. We need to ensure our Government continues to listen to young people, especially now in terms of the content of mandatory SRE. And we need to continue to call on the devolved administrations to make sure SRE is up to scratch in every school right across the UK, not only in England.
We want to make sure this education policy is enforced effectively with age-appropriate lessons and a curriculum that includes consent, tackling violence against women and girls, online abuse, gender equality and LGBTQ topics, and healthy relationships.
This new policy is a reassuring step in the right direction though and I'm excited to think that my positive SRE experience will no longer be a privilege, but will be a right for the next generation of students.
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Charlotte Forrester, 17, is a member of the Girlguiding Advocate Panel made up of 18 young women aged 14 to 25. They meet throughout the year to talk about issues that are important to them, such as body confidence, representation of girls and women in the media, access to better sex and relationships education and role models for girls
HuffPost UK is running a month-long project in March called All Women Everywhere, providing a platform to reflect the diverse mix of female experience and voices in Britain today
The strike for union recognition at Grunwick Film Processing, which started in August 1976, signified both the apotheosis of trade union solidarity and nadir of British pluralist industrial relations in the 1970s.
It began as a little noticed dispute of "strikers in saris" and stayed that way for twelve months, eventually prompting massive media coverage when sympathisers joined a campaign of mass picketing in the summer of 1977.
Eventually, trade unionists from every sector of UK employment rallied to the cause of an exploited group of Asian workers facing an employer rejecting what most people regarded as basic, decent conditions. Having walked out in protest, the workers were sacked and all attempts to gain their reinstatement met with implacable resistance.
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By any yardstick, it was an episode of extraordinary industrial conflict. Protagonists included the Labour Government and liberal establishment urging consensus; while a wooden and inflexible management were egged on by right wing elements gathering confidence as the months passed.
In the middle were the strikers, supported locally by Brent Trades Council (comprising voluntary activists and only loosely connected with the official trade union movement). Through some serendipitous route, the strikers became members of the moderate union, APEX, rarely known to strike in anger. It was the most unlikely of scenarios.
At the time I was working as a London Area Organiser of APEX, and while I was inevitably drawn in to help I was never in the driving seat. Indeed, it is a good question to ask, "who was in the driving seat?"
Arguably the union, at least formally, but local presence on the ground often carried more sway and the dispute became a cause celebre' drawing support from many disparate elements.
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Some observers, including the former TUC General Secretary Lionel Murray, believe this was a fatal mistake, but they have never explained how a lower profile might have succeeded, when it had failed so conspicuously for twelve months.
In so many ways this dispute was unvisited territory. Strikes were relatively rare in APEX and unofficial disputes virtually unheard of. I recall heated discussions in the office where some of my colleagues suffered crises of doubt. Emotionally they were there but it seemed boarding on anarchic, in contrast to their cautious, constitutional default-instincts.
In a way it was remarkable that the strike happened at all. The strikers were not APEX members at the outset but recruited to the union as they stood outside the factory gate. They were a group of tyro protesters, ill-prepared for any kind of campaign and with no idea of what they had committed themselves to.
Moving from such unpromising beginnings to command media attention for weeks on end and win the support of the whole trade union movement, was no mean achievement.
A key factor was the marginalised position of the strikers and their position in British society.
They represented the tip of an iceberg of unprotected ethnic minority workers. It was to the credit of APEX that it opened its arms to them - after all, they had not previously paid a penny in union dues.
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With hindsight though, the union's generous motives were skewered by a misplaced faith in the power of liberal, pluralist institutions facing a rapacious anti-union culture and rejecting consensual notions.
Until then the UK trade union movement had made little impact on Asian workers. Many worked in ghettos of iniquity, where language barriers and weak regulation allowed shameful conditions to prevail.
The unions were largely male and white. London dockers, to their eternal shame, had marched in sympathy with Enoch Powell's inflammatory "rivers of blood" racist speech in 1968. The official movement was not similarly tarred but its anti-racist credentials were lacking at this point.
For many months the strikers sat and stood around, trying ineffectually to stop people and goods going in and out of the factories. Vainly we drew attention to the scandalous impasse of their situation.
At length they had no normal recourse. Their employer rejected overtures from ACAS, the legal establishment (in a court of enquiry) the local council, Members of Parliament and innumerable others.
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Through all this, the strikers patiently waited, conspicuous in their saris, playing on the consciences of onlookers, contrasting their own humility with the perfidy of their sweatshop employer.
For me, it was closer to home than others knew. As a former teacher, I had taught physics to pupils in a local school, including (it transpired) the Secretary of the Strike Committee, Mahmood Ahmed.
I remembered him as one of many, arriving with their parents to join the queue outside the headmaster's door, wearing his Ugandan school blazer and seeking a place as a refugee from the African dictator Idi Amin.
Grunwick's owner, George Ward (himself an Anglo-Indian) found in these Asians a compliant and cheap form of labour. Bullying and harsh treatment were their everyday experience; sackings and humiliation the daily regime. Women were not permitted to attend ante-natal appointments. Permission had to be sought to visit the toilet.
After the strike began, with no experience of unions, the strikers turned to the local Trades Council, whose secretary Jack Dromey (now a Birmingham MP) worked close by. They joined APEX, a claim for recognition was submitted and the workers were promptly sacked for their pains.
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Over months hundreds of chemists' shops were contacted to discourage the collection of films for Grunwick. Requests were sent to workers in other unions to stem the supply of chemicals and materials used in processing the films. Efforts were made to withdraw essential services to the Grunwick factories but none of this changed the mind of the employer.
By now the company was being advised by an anti-union organisation, the National Association for Freedom and George Ward was if anything, even more implacable in his stance.
Questions were raised in Parliament. Labour MPs including Cabinet members attended the picket line to show solidarity with the sacked workers, but none of this made an impression.
A new legal procedure to deal with union recognition claims through the newly created ACAS was initiated, but the company used every delaying tactic in the book in the knowledge that time was on their side. Employment tribunal claims for unfair dismissal were filed, but these failed because a legal loophole allowed wholesale dismissals of strikers en masse. Our collective trade union rights had more holes than a colander, it seemed.
Hence, after more than a year, the dispute was catapulted into the news by weeks of sensational mass picketing, mostly organised by the "unofficial trade union movement," through networks of shop stewards and activists up and down the country.
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I was little more than as fly on the wall, but from where I stood, the APEX leadership was a novice surfer on a giant tsunami, never in control and sitting on something that felt more like a revolution than a strike.
A court of enquiry led by Lord Scarman, supported the strikers and urged settlement of their claims but none of this moved the implacable Grunwick management.
Injunctions were sought against public sector workers who were effectively choking off mail deliveries and threatening to cut off the company's water supplies. Hundreds of pickets were arrested, accusations made of police harassment of strikers and in the background the sinister National Association for Freedom lurked, collaborating with the police in ensuring that George Ward, walked away victorious.
At the time, the Grunwick defeat was a blow, not just for the strikers who were left without jobs, but for the British trade union movement and the Labour Government's new law, the Employment Protection Act 1975. Discovery that a small employer like Grunwick could thumb his nose to the legisation was a major embarrassment.
The election of Mrs Thatcher's Conservative Government in 1979, used the Grunwick dispute as a pretext for new restrictive rules on picketing and the repeal of the flawed union recognition process, without replacing it in any form. There were no winners - not on the union side anyway.
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Whilst the Grunwick strike went down as a "glorious defeat," the unions' attempted defence of vulnerable migrant workers expressed values that had hitherto not been voiced. If it achieved anything, the strike sent a message that unions were not just white, male bastions in the UK and that whoever they were, whatever their ethnicity or colour, "solidarity" meant something.
An exhibition is showing archive material of the Grunwick Strike, is showing at Willesden Green Library until the 2nd April 2017. A video of the Strike can be obtained from the Secretary of Brent Trades Council, pete.firmin@btinternet.com . Grunwick 40 is a programme of events during 2016 and 2017.
Chris Ball
Jean Claude Juncker could well go down in history as the last President of the European Commission. He can see that the European Union is falling apart in his hands and so, like any good European, he offers the solution: more Europe.
Juncker presented his White Paper to the European Parliament on Wednesday March 1st, entitled "The Future of Europe."
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Why did he feel it necessary to launch such a paper? Simply because Euroscepticism is on the march across Europe; last year the United Kingdom voted Leave, in the Netherlands the Party for Freedom (PVV) could well become the largest party in this month's general election, France's Front National are ahead in the polls for the Presidential election, and in Italy 5Star are likely to sweep the board once the election is staged. In Finland the True Finns, the Danish People's Party, and the German Alternative for Germany are all rising in popularity and taking seats. The ruling Law and Justice Party in Poland have refused to back arch federalist Pole Donald Tusk for a second term as President of the European Council. Other non-Eurosceptic parties such as Syriza in Greece and Podemos in Spain are actively campaigning against an EU whose policies have brought austerity.
All is clearly not well with the EU. For a variety of reasons and representing a wide range of politics, both Left and Right, the authority of Brussels and the very existence of the EU are under threat from all sides.
How has Juncker responded to this? By offering more control for Brussels, and deeper integration.
He offered 5 solutions for the future for the EU:
1.Stay as we are. But with the treaty bound objective of 'ever closer union,' the status quo means keep expanding, keep integrating, and increase controls.
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2.Keeping nothing but the Single Market. But a single market like this requires centralised control, central planning, high compliance thresholds and costs, and the free movements of peoples, services, and capital. It also requires border controls. In fact option 2 is identical to option 1.
3.An opt-in to greater integration. This two tier EU is an impossibility. The EU can only function at the pace and direction determined by the French-German axis. So the lower tier of co-operation is an illusion. So, option 3 is simply option 1 in better clothes.
4.What the Telegraph calls "Doing Less More Efficiently." The EU cannot do less, its purpose is broadening and deepening its controls. The Commission cannot nor will not give up any of its competences, its momentum is irreversible according to its own Treaties and founding principles. This option is a pipe dream.
5.Doing much more together. Bang! That's the option that Juncker wants us to choose, which, in fact is identical to option one; keep rolling on the process of expansion, integration, and taking further decision-making away from the sovereign member states.
At least with reference to Option Five Mr Juncker concedes the risk that "alienating parts of society which feel that the EU lacks legitimacy or has taken too much power away from national authorities." But the reality is that all five options are not options at all, they are five ways of making the EU 27 choose more Europe despite calls across the Continent for a return of sovereignty.
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And this is what the post-Juncker EU would look like by 2025 according to Euractiv.com:
The EU's European Border and Coast Guard would have fully taken over management of the EU's external borders.
All asylum claims will be processed by a single European Asylum Agency
Joint defence capabilities will be established in a EU European Defence Union
The EU would speak with one voice on all foreign policy issues
Trade deals would be dealt with exclusively at EU level, removing the need for each agreement to be ratified by national parliaments
Co-operation between police and judicial authorities on terrorism issues would be systematic and facilitated by common Europe Counter-Terrorism agency.
And of course, full monetary union, taxation strategy and financial controls
Next weekend sees the Raw Wine Fair return to London for its sixth year. Over those years natural wine (plus organic and biodynamic wine) has gone from being an unknown quantity to a growing movement. This year Raw Wine will feature artisan growers from 18 countries and its sister fairs in New York and Berlin have proved hugely popular. Master of Wine Isabelle Legeron, creator of the Raw Wine fair, tells us why drinking bog standard wine is like eating battery chicken.
"Even those who are big foodies, who watch what they eat, don't actually think about what is in their wine glass. The wine industry is full of the same big brand issues that exist in the rest of the food world, it's just that most people have never thought about it," says Legeron, who has written one of the definitive books on natural wines.
Thanks to somewhat opaque legislation, what goes into mainstream wine is often undocumented but includes a range of sulphites.
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"Dozens of winemaking additives, processing aids and manipulations are permitted by law. Anti-foaming agents (which are added to wine vats so that the liquid can be pumped faster), for example, are regularly used and in some countries even the use of hydrogen peroxide is legal!" says Legeron.
Credit: Raw Wine Fair
And then there's the environmental cost, which often sees drought wrecked areas like California draining water tables to water vines, that can thrive perfectly well without irrigation.
"Vines can absolutely thrive with dry-farming," explains Legeron. "As one producer told me, 'They're like the cockroaches of the plant world and isn't that wonderful? Natural wine can only be born of the living as you need a healthy, biodiverse microflora in the vineyard to help produce healthy grapes and a healthy fermentation, so clean, pesticide-free farming and natural wine are obligatory bedfellows."
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There's no getting away from it thought, natural, organic or bio wine can look and taste different. That shouldn't put you off says Legeron - it's about relearning your love of wine. Forget the Tesco aisle stuff and crack open a cloudy bottle.
"Makers of low-intervention wine tend to force things less - they let aromas develop naturally over time - so you tend to find wines that are a lot less oaked, and often a lot lower in alcohol," she says. "And since natural wines are usually unfiltered and unfined, the resulting wine can sometimes be cloudy, which certainly is no bad thing, just think about how we've got used to cloudy apple juice being a sign of quality."
For more info on natural wines and to learn the difference between natural, organic and biodynamic click here.
Drought in Somaliland, a region of Somalia where ActionAid works
Six years ago famine gripped Somalia. The famine came as no surprise. Agencies on the ground had been warning for months about the severity of the situation. But by the time the world woke up to the danger and launched a global disaster response, the famine was already devastating the region. The aid that arrived came too late to save thousands of lives. In total the famine led to the deaths of an estimated 250,000 people.
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Six years on and we are at risk of repeating exactly the same mistake once again. And this time the scale of the disaster is even more daunting. There are now 20 million people across East Africa facing hunger in Ethiopia, South Sudan, Kenya and Somalia. In South Sudan an official famine has been declared. Both Somalia and Kenya have announced national emergencies and across East Africa thousands of children are malnourished. Meanwhile women and girls are likely to bear the brunt of the emergency. They are trying to survive and care for their children whilst at risk of increased sexual violence and exploitation.
If it doesn't rain soon - and long-term forecasts suggest it won't - the situation will deteriorate further. We are standing on the brink of a catastrophe that could turn into the worst humanitarian disaster of this century.
Once again aid agencies such as our own are scaling up their response and the United Nations is appealing for funds for a series of crises across the region - and once again the response has been sluggish. There is a risk that a global response may only happen once these crises have already reached a stage where thousands of people are dying. Or to put it another way - if we don't act now we may fail to stop thousands of, what are currently, preventable deaths.
But we could do it differently this time.
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Parched landscape in West Pokot in Kenya currently affected by drought
That is why international development organisations like ours are appealing for the world to act now to stop the hunger crisis from getting worse. We must not wait. The UK Government has already committed millions of pounds to the region and other countries must also join in. At present the United Nations is reporting that it has received only a tiny fraction of the money required.
We need governments to be agile and show political leadership. Pledges need to be turned into real money which reaches agencies on the ground as rapidly as possible.
For people who are already hungry, immediate action to provide aid will prevent many more serious health problems such as severe malnutrition. For people who are currently at risk, early action and preparedness is needed to build their ability to cope now and reduce the need for emergency aid in the future.
We must also work to help the women at girls. Women have to travel ever further distances away from the protection of their communities in search of water, meaning they can expose themselves to increased risk of sexual attacks.
They are sometimes last to eat in the family and may miss meals. Pregnant and lactating mothers face particular challenges.
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We do not what to wait for the appearance of shocking television images of emaciated children - before anything is done. To do so would show that the world has learned nothing from the famine six years ago and a string of other disasters where the same pattern has been repeated.
As Jan Egeland, former UN emergency relief co-ordinator, wrote in the aftermath of the 2011 Somalia disaster "How come, more than a generation after man walked on the moon, we would let fellow human beings die needlessly because we would not give priority to their most basic human needs in time? That the needless haemorrhage of human lives took place ... in spite of all our knowledge and experience is an outrage."
Blaring through our kitchen speakers, from the CD played in my car and on the screen of my phone are the scenes and songs from Disney's new film Moana. My little sister at the moment is living and breathing Moana. From the constant pleas to play 'No One Knows' on the computer and the requests to watch her dance [just like Moana does in the film] you might think it is driving me crazy; however, I absolutely love it!
I love the songs and the characters, I love the fact that my sister watches the footage of the film and tries to copy Moana dancing with the water. It is this stuff that makes my heart warm. Compared to a year ago when all my sister did was run around screeching Frozen's 'Let it Go' and all I wanted to do was run around pull my ear drums out. Let's just say that Moana is a definite Disney improvement, and not just in the song department.
I have to admit I was a little bit gutted when Moana lost out to best animation feature and best song at the Oscars. The inner Disney in me was all fired up, and I realised that it was not just because of the fantastic songs I had been humming for weeks. Moana was a new kind of character to the ones my sister had seen on screen before. Moana is not the usual waif like, slightly bug eyed princess that we have all been accustomed to, but a resilient and natural depiction of girl sailing off to save the world. Not since showing her the film Mulan had my little sister been so excited by a strong female character. My little sister was aspiring to be like Moana and I am so grateful for this.
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I am thankful for a Disney film in which they have given us a heroine and not a princess. When Moana encounters Maui [the tattooed demi-god] she says "I am not a princess" to which Maui replies [in a kind of Disney-esque mansplaining tone] "If you wear a dress and you have an animal sidekick, you're a princess". Much like the character my sister was very quick to defend and explained to me that Moana is most definitely not a princess but the daughter of a village chief. Touche. She is also badass, I might add. Navigating the ocean and defeating all kinds of obstacles put in her way.
Not only does the film promote a coming of age story without a whiff of a love interest in sight, but it also brings up lots of interesting topics that kids might not have been introduced to. Since watching the film my sister and I have talked about death and spirits because Moana's grandmother is reincarnated in the movie. We have also talked about different cultures, discussing the pan-Pacific place that the film is set; which is a mixture of Fijian, Samoan and Tongan [amongst others]. Speaking about traditions, ancestors and Polynesian explorers. We have also talked together about the language in the film because to my knowledge this is one of the first Disney productions [apart from the opening of the Lion King] where bi-lingual lyrics have been married together in such a beautiful and seamless way. Listening to the soundtrack together in the car there are songs which also feature no English at all. I looked in my rear view mirror, having stopped at a traffic light, to see my little sister transfixed. I asked her if she was alright, to which she replied "I just love listening to the language in this song."
Getty
Despite having only been an MP for less than two years it seems that the build up to every Budget and Autumn Statement so far has been dominated by calls for more funding for the NHS and social care. On each occasion campaigners have come away disappointed, but surely, after the worst winter on record and headlines proclaiming a "humanitarian crisis" the Chancellor will now act?
So far the signs have not been good. Despite everyone from the British Medical Association to the Conservative Chair of the Health Select Committee saying otherwise, the mantra from Ministers so far has been that the NHS has got everything it asked for. This claim has been comprehensively refuted and now even the head of the NHS says their funding per patient will decrease over the next few years.
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Just about every organisation involved in the health sector believes that social care needs a funding boost as a priority. With an ageing population it was inevitable that removing 4.5 billion from social care would have disastrous consequences.
The calls for a cross party commission into the future of the health service allow politicians to yet again duck the big decisions. Every time there is another crisis, the response will simply be "we have a cross party commission looking into this". At the end of the process there is no guarantee agreement can be reached; Andy Burnham knows from his bitter experience trying to achieve consensus in social care that politicians cannot be trusted to work cross party on issues like this. It would also be an abrogation of our responsibility as the official opposition to outsource such critical work on something that so many of our supporters consider a fundamental element of our party's platform.
The fact is that whatever health and social care service you decide to have, significant political decisions would still need to be made. Continuing with a speedy, safe and free health service is going to cost more money and I am not persuaded that the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats who have repeatedly voted for the tightest funding squeeze in history the sector will all accept that premise. There appears to be a wilful denial by Ministers that the current funding settlement is sufficient. By the end of the decade we could well be spending less per person on health than Costa Rica. I cannot see there being much agreement with that as the direction of travel.
The debate of course isn't just about money but it is an essential prerequisite for the kind of service I want to see. 38 degrees have crowd sourced a whole range of ideas about how extra funding could be found; they are all of course political decisions. Those decisions need to be taken in conjunction with a meaningful conversation about what people are prepared to pay for; how long is it reasonable to expect people to wait for an operation, how easy should it be to see your GP, where is the line drawn between individual and state responsibility in social care? These are questions of priority. At the moment the Government is eroding people's expectations in all these areas with no mandate.
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As the official opposition it is the Labour Party's duty to take a lead in beginning the conversations about what the priorities should be and shaping the debate about what the NHS and social care sector should look like in the future. In the past there has been a tendency for politicians of all persuasions to tinker with the structures and believe that is the panacea. I would agree that the current set up is far from perfect but our focus should start with an acceptance that with the inexorable rise in demand we are going to need to make the political case for the health and social care sector to be a priority.
President Trump thinks torture "absolutely" works and Prime Minister Theresa May has failed to condemn his stance. But every day clinicians at my charity, Freedom from Torture, see how torture is used to silence people and destroy lives. Today, 2 March, MPs will debate UK policy on torture.
The pressure is building for the UK to stand up as a champion for the absolute ban on torture across the world as well as survivors' rights here in the UK.
As the co-founder and Co-ordinator of Survivors Speak OUT, a network of torture survivors, every day I meet individuals - asylum seekers and refugees - who have escaped tortuous regimes and sought sanctuary in the UK. We come from many countries and backgrounds and we all have our own story of detention, torture and flight. But a common theme is our search for safety and security, free from torture, and a wish to regain our dignity and humanity.
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Sadly, you might think that our torture ends when we reach the UK. But many of us find the UK asylum system another form of torture. Far too often torture survivors find themselves trapped in a hostile and bureaucratic asylum system where Home Office decision-makers will not believe our accounts of torture, even when it is backed by expert evidence.
Last year, I interviewed over 100 survivors of torture who are current or former clients of Freedom from Torture. Over and over, I heard how the best efforts of therapists, lawyers, social workers and others trying to help them, are hindered by their experiences in the asylum system.
One torture survivor told me: "Back home, we are tortured physically but what I have noticed is that the Home Office in this country, they are trying to torture us mentally, and I think it is worse than the physical torture that I have been through."
Another explained how his life was literally on hold: "The situation is like a movie and you press pause, you're not moving forward, you're just standing there and waiting for the Home Office." Another survivor expressed his frustration: "Freedom from Torture is trying to boost our morale and restore everything that we lost, but on the other side the Home Office is pushing us down."
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We at Freedom from Torture are especially concerned about the difficulties experienced by torture survivors in proving that they have been tortured.
Contrary to common perception, gaining asylum is not a matter of telling a sob-story to a credulous civil servant. It is not easy for a torture survivor to talk of their ordeal, even to an expert therapist. Imagine how much more difficult it is to disclose your experiences when you are in a crowded, noisy and hostile office to a total stranger.
The process involves a huge amount of complex form filling, numerous appointments with lawyers and case workers, and appearances before immigration tribunals. And this process can continue for months and years, all the while with survivors living in limbo on the margins of society.
Freedom from Torture produces medical evidence of torture in the form of detailed medico-legal reports. Our Proving Torture report analysed 50 cases and found that existing Home Office policy guidance was not being followed and that expert medico-legal reports were poorly handled. In almost three-quarters of the cases, asylum caseworkers replaced the expert opinion of a medical doctor with their own speculation about clinical matters.
Yet when these cases went to appeal at a higher tribunal a different story emerges. In 76% of cases where the final outcome was known, evidence was reassessed and asylum was granted. A good outcome, but only at a huge personal cost to the torture survivors in terms of misery and mental distress, and also at a cost to the taxpayer's purse.
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Today's debate will be led by my friend Dr Tania Mathias, MP for Twickenham and a medical doctor with personal experience of working with torture survivors. Beforehand she will be joined by anti-torture campaigners, including members of Survivors Speak OUT, to deliver a petition, signed by over 40,000 individuals. It calls on Home Secretary Amber Rudd to give people who have been tortured the protection they deserve, by assessing expert evidence to avoid delays and errors in their asylum claim.
Malaysia on Thursday abruptly scrapped visa-free entry for North Koreans over the assassination of Kim Jong- nam at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Feb. 13.
Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the move was motivated by concerns for national security, according to the Bernama news agency.
On Feb. 20 Malaysia recalled its ambassador from Pyongyang. The North has infuriated Malaysians by denouncing the police investigation after four suspects fled to Pyongyang while two others remain holed up in the embassy.
Pyongyang sent a high-level delegation led by its deputy ambassador to the UN Ri Tong-il to press for the handover of Kim Jong-nam's body. Ri told reporters Kim died of "a heart attack" and that there was "no proof about the use of nerve agent VX," which is classified as a weapon of mass destruction and has been identified as the poison that killed Kim.
Malaysian prosecutors said they will deport Ri Jong-chol, the only North Korean who was arrested as a suspect in the killing, to Pyongyang on Friday. Attorney-General Mohamed Apandi Ali said there is "not enough evidence to prosecute him."
Local Labour Party leads the way in bringing democracy to a seaside town in East Sussex.
Bexhill on Sea is a small, delightful coastal town in East Sussex, notable for several reasons. One reason being that it has been home to such names as Spike Milligan, John Logie Baird, Fanny Craddock and Eddie Izzard.
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However there is another, less positive, reason why Bexhill stands out. It is one of a few towns in Britain (and the only town in East Sussex) without a Town Council.
Back in 1974, Bexhill's Town Council was dismembered and replaced by Charter Trustees from Rother District Council. These Charter Trustees, however, do not serve the democratic purpose that a Town Council or other forms of area committee do.
Since then, there has been a growing movement in the seaside town to reinstate a Town Council, thus giving the residents of Bexhill a democratic say in how their town is run and where funds are spent.
This movement picked up steam in 2015 when over four thousand Bexhill residents called on Rother County Council to hold a 'Community Governance Review' or a public consultation with the people of Bexhill. A review to decide on how the town should be run.
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It's no secret that the local Conservative Party have long resisted calls for a Bexhill Town Council and their reluctance to promote the review and a lack lustre launch led to the foundation of local campaign group "Democracy4Bexhill" in October 2016. As one of the founders of this cross party campaign group, Bexhill Labour Party are set to put pressure on Rother District Council to make sure everyone in the town has the opportunity to take part in the consultation. Making sure that the council holds a fair and open referendum of the preferred outcomes.
Its fair to say the Constituency Labour Party are baring the torch for this movement and thus for democracy. A great example of this progressive action is that, on Tuesday the 28th of February 2017, the Bexhill branch of the Labour Party handed in their detailed plan to Rother District Council, spearheading the movement with a clear and well laid out set of proposals.
The key proposals in the Bexhill and Battle Labour Party's response are:
Reintroduction of a Town Council to restore civic pride and build on the strength of Bexhill's vibrant voluntary community.
Locate the Town Council offices in an empty shop or office in the Town Centre as a cost effective solution to bringing governance closer to local people.
Rotate council meetings around the town so that local communities in Little Common, Sidley and Pebsham can access local democracy.
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A town council should start by looking after services currently paid for by Bexhill's special expenses (Parks, Recreation Grounds, allotments) and draw up a Neighbourhood Plan to set high development standards for house builders.
Party members argue that Bexhill lost out when its council was abolished in 1974 and that the current arrangements are remote, commanding no loyalty from residents. This may seem like a small town problem but it is endemic of issues up and down the country where Conservative led areas are suffering from a lack of democratic power.
Once the British people realise this and realise that they are being duped by the current government, they will look for an alternative flag barer for this great nation. No matter your opinion of Labour's leadership or current selection of MPs, you cannot deny that in places like Bexhill, up and down the country, it is the local Labour Councillors and constituency party members that are rallying the charge for democracy and fairness.
You can read the Bexhill and Battle Constituency Labour Party's official press release here.
Lite Productions via Getty Images
At the heart of Britain's NHS and Social Care crisis is an increase in demand for services from our ageing population. The right housing models can play a critical part in preventing a cycle of demand from starting and allow older people to return to their own homes after treatment, thus freeing up NHS and social care resources.
Social Care services are insufficient to provide the care that older people need in their homes. This leaves many older people without the crucial support that could stop avoidable health conditions from escalating into emergencies that unnecessarily drive them towards NHS services unable to deal with demand.
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Once an older patient is in hospital they often cannot be discharged because they're unable to care for themselves at home whilst they recover. The inability of a hospital to discharge an older patient blocks a bed and costs the NHS hundreds of pounds per patient per day.
Often the only solution is to discharge the older person to an expensive residential care setting, taking them away from their home. This causes great distress and a loss of confidence and skills. The resulting strain on social care budgets reduces the resources available to care for older people in their own homes, and the cycle is set in motion again.
Here are five housing models that can help to break the deadlock and which I hope will receive support in the upcoming budget:
1. Adapted personal homes
Poor quality and unsuitable housing impacts on older peoples' physical and mental well-being and can directly lead to injury through slips and falls, costing the NHS an estimated 1.4 Billion a year.
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750,000 older people's homes in the UK require adaptations because of a medical condition or disability. For older people who cannot afford to make adaptations there is help available from the Disabled Facilities Grant. However, take up of adaptations - both self-funded and supported by the DFG - is far lower than it could be. The reasons for this are hard to pin down, but one pre-eminent barrier is the stress and anxiety caused to older people when work disrupts them in their homes. There is an undoubted fear of being unfairly treated by 'cowboy builders'.
One innovative solution has been developed by the Home Improvement Agency of the Year, WE Care & Repair, who offer a service that takes all the stress and anxiety away from older people having to deal with builders. WE Care & Repair will assess home adaptation needs, commission the adaptations and manage the payment to the builders on behalf of the customer, but only once the work has been inspected by one of their assessors.
2. Sheltered housing
Sheltered housing is a model operated by a range of housing associations and almshouses across the country. The model offers affordable housing with support in the form of housing officers who either float between schemes or are based on site. Sheltered homes typically provide an emergency alarm system in the form of a pull cord or a wearable pendant and many employ further assistive technology.
Multiple benefits of sheltered housing have been identified by National Housing Federation research, including:
Lower levels of social isolation
Better physical and mental health
Help to downsize homes, freeing up larger homes
Reduces and delays the need for primary care and social care
Reduces hospital admissions
Enables timely discharge from hospital and prevents re-admissions
3. Extra Care Housing
Extra Care is the provision of sheltered housing with 24/7 care available on-site. Older people live in their own homes within a facility and have control over their care plans and daily activities which they would lose in a residential care setting.
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Research has demonstrated that residents living in properties run by the Extra Care Charitable Trust cost the NHS 1,115 less per person, per year, compared to costs incurred by comparable residents in the surrounding area.
The Department of Health's Extra Care Housing Capital Fund invested in excess of 227 million into 88 extra care schemes between 2004-10, and continues as the 'Care and Support Specialised Housing Fund 2015-18'. However, according to Housing Lin, by 2030 there will be an estimated shortfall of 61,000 units of Extra Care housing in England - so the model needs further investment.
4. Specialist homes for Dementia sufferers
Dementia Care forecast that by 2025 the UK will have 1.14 million dementia sufferers, which will put a growing strain on social care services.
Supported housing providers are increasingly developing solutions to help dementia sufferers remain as independent as possible in their own homes. A variety of approaches have been developed focusing on either integrating dementia sufferers within a wider community, or separating their housing into designated areas where higher care needs are easier to service.
Dementia-friendly design principles are also gaining prominence in the sector and specialist home adaptations are being considered by organisations such as Foundations (the national body for home improvement agencies).
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5. Intergenerational living
Intergenerational living schemes are on the rise. The concept is founded on the idea that older people's needs won't be best met if they're housed in 'elderly ghettos'. Instead, older people should be placed at the centre of vibrant mixed communities with inbuilt support structures that combat social isolation and ensure older people are referred for greater support before their needs escalate to an emergency.
One such scheme in the Netherlands called Care Centre Humanitas houses six students alongside 160 older people aged over 55. In return for 30 hours of voluntary support per month, the students get to live rent free. There's a good BBC video about the project here.
How can we help these housing solutions gain greater traction?
Often the challenge for innovative and ambitious housing providers is in developing the right commercial models that will allow a new scheme to operate sustainably, and then to raise the capital required to finance construction. At Baxendale we're helping a range of housing providers to develop their models and to access the right forms of investment to support them in their growth.
State prosecutors are reassembling a special team to probe the massive corruption scandal that has brought down President Park Geun-hye after independent counsel Park Young-soo officially ended his mandate on Tuesday.
Prosecutors will now investigate the president on corruption charges as well as looking into suspicions that former presidential secretary Woo Byung-woo, who has miraculously escaped close scrutiny so far, led the cover-up.
Several prosecutors who handled the initial investigation before the independent counsel was empowered by the National Assembly are expected to join the new team.
The initial investigation late last year led to the indictments of President Parks longtime confidante Choi Soon-sil and presidential aides An Chong-bum and Jeong Ho-seong, and the naming of Park herself as an accomplice to their crimes.
The independent counsel later arrested de facto Samsung chief Lee Jae-yong on charges of bribing Choi and Park, which will alter the direction of the fresh investigation.
Williamstown Elementary School Committee Chairman Joe Bergeron, left, and interim Superintendent Kim Grady explained the budget to the rest of the School Committee.
Williamstown Elementary Now Looking at 4 Percent Hike
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. The Williamstown Elementary School budget again has ticked upward, the School Committee learned on Wednesday night.
With three weeks left before the district presents its fiscal 2018 budget request to the town's Finance Committee, Interim Superintendent Kim Grady and School Committee Chairman Joe Bergeron told the committee that the latest iteration of the spending plan sees the appropriation to the town up by 4.12 percent from FY17.
The current total proposed appropriation to the town is $6.4 million, up $253,218 from the $6.1 million FY17 appropriation.
That is still an increase of less than the "hair under 5 percent" Bergeron warned of back in January but is more than the 3.5 percent hike the elementary school district contemplated as recently as Feb. 15 and was reported informally to the town's Finance Committee later that night.
Bergeron said there are several reasons why the school's appropriated budget has crept upward.
"Part of that is shifting spending from school choice [revenue] into the appropriated budget so we're not spending down a school-choice reserve we don't have, and part of that is that there are actuals that have been tucked into school choice in the past," Bergeron said. "Part three is contractual increases and trying to avoid having to decrease staff. Another portion is educational priorities.
"The remainder are student needs we need to meet that trigger slightly higher costs next year versus the costs we see this year. Those are not coming out of the budget."
At the same time, the district's anticipated revenue from school choice revenue and pre-kindergarten tuition have dropped since that Feb. 15 meeting by $18,000 and $7,000, respectively, Bergeron reported on Wednesday night.
And the district's FY17 actual expenses, or "actuals," are now projected to be $47,000 higher than the numbers used in the Feb. 15 meeting. That includes $19,000 in an unanticipated increase in payments to the county retirement system and substitute teacher/paraprofessional expenses that are running $13,000 higher than the numbers used in calculating the Feb. 15 budget projections.
For the most part, school officials say the FY18 spending plan is a level-funded budget with no significant new spending. There are a couple of exceptions that the School Committee has, to date, supported: making the school's assistant principal a full-time position and purchasing new textbooks.
"We're upgrading our reading program and obtaining materials to support our transition to the new science standard," Principal Joelle Brookner told the committee on Wednesday. "That would not be a yearly increase. The majority of that would be a one-time increase to purchase new teacher's manuals, which are more expensive. You won't see that kind of number in FY19."
Likewise, the district's push to stop relying on school choice revenue to fund operating costs an initiative begun under former Superintendent Douglas Dias has driven appropriation increases the last two funding cycles. Bergeron indicated that now that the appropriated budget more accurately reflects the cost of education, that upward pressure should ease.
"This is probably not a budget year when we're going to walk into Town Hall and say 2.5 percent is all we're asking for," Bergeron said. "The question can and should be: 'Are you going to always ask for 4.1 percent?' And the answer is no.
"If we already made sure we're mapping the actuals we know exist, we don't need to bump it up in FY19 to meet costs we can't pay for out of school choice."
School districts in Massachusetts receive about $5,000 per year for each non-resident student enrolled under the commonwealth's school choice program. Although that figure is far below the cost per pupil, Williamstown Elementary historically has accepted school choice pupils to help to help fill empty seats in classrooms.
In general, the district gets more pupils "choicing in" from neighboring communities than it sees leaving to attend other area elementary schools.
The revenue is outside of the appropriated budget, i.e. what the district receives from local property taxes.
School districts are allowed to carry reserve funds essentially surplus or "rainy day" funds generated by school choice revenue, and the school did just that as recently as five years ago, when its reserve account was more than $300,000 . This year's carryover was about $38,000
Toward the end of Wednesday's three-hour School Committee meeting, Bergeron highlighted the importance of reserve accounts during a discussion of a line-item increase for special education. Grady, who was the district's director of pupil personnel services before her job title was changed to assistant superintendent (and currently interim superintendent) was explaining that based on her expectation of student needs, she added $65,105 to the line item for out-of-district placement.
"If we don't need to use it, great but I will feel safer knowing I have funds in the budget to meet the needs of students," Grady said. "Our reserves have become incredibly low, and I needed to make sure we have funds."
Bergeron elaborated.
"School choice has traditionally been a way to absorb some of the unexpected costs to educate a student or a couple of students [with special needs]," Bergeron said. "That is the primary reason, for me, to have school choice funds or to have a fund from year to year that can be carried over.
"[The SPED budget] is what has true variability. Other things, we can predict better and can be more conservative in how we budget, but that's an area where you may have a $50,000 or $60,000 expense we didn't anticipate. When people say, 'Why do you need a reserve?' that's an area where you need a release valve."
The School Committee's Finance Subcommittee, which consists of Bergeron and Dan Caplinger, is scheduled to take another look at the budget on Thursday, March 16, at the elementary school.
The committee will hold its annual public hearing on the FY18 budget on Tuesday, March 21, at 6 p.m., prior to its 7 p.m. business meeting, at the elementary school. The next night, the district is scheduled to present its budget to the town Finance Committee at Town Hall.
In the meantime, Bergeron suggested on Wednesday that the committee hold a workshop or public listening session to invite public comments and questions perhaps during the March 16 subcommittee meeting or at another time and place prior to the March 21 hearing.
"I feel as though it would be a chance for us all to be a group of parents in a room talking about these issues," Bergeron said. "The very ready answer will probably be, I cannot answer that question definitively, but I'll go and find the answer.' "
Bergeron said Wednesday night he would survey the School Committee members by email and try to find a date and time that would work to hold the informal public forum.
In other business on Wednesday, the committee:
Approved adding eight additional school choice slots for the 2017-18 academic year: four in kindergarten, three in first grade and one in fourth grade. Brookner said those recommendations take into account class sizes at Lanesborough Elementary School and the sizes of classes that ultimately will matriculate up to Mount Greylock Regional School, which has identified 92 as an ideal class size for classes entering the renovated junior-senior high school. The eight slots will help balance the six school choice students graduating in this year's sixth-grade class. This year, the school has 34 school choice pupils.
Approved the job description for a food service director position to be shared with Mount Greylock. The new position replaces a retiring cafeteria manager and eliminates a part-time bookkeeper post shared by the two schools. The administration asked for the change to ensure that the cafeterias at the two schools are managed by someone with the qualifications currently required under the law.
Discussed a policy change that will allow the school to provide free milk to students eligible for free and reduced lunches. Currently, those students cannot receive free milk under the federal program if they bring a bagged lunch from home. "What I learned from working with the cafeteria workers and [Brookner] is that free or reduced lunch means the whole meal," Grady told the committee. "If you're on free or reduced lunch and just want the milk, you're required to pay for it."
Learned that the districts FY18 budget shows a reduction in the cost of bus transportation because WES is cutting from five bus routes to four. We have done a thorough analysis of bus ridership and done a thorough look at the bus routes, and were confident we can reduce to four buses, Brookner said. She cited low ridership numbers as well as current routes that have buses crossing paths and sometimes passing the same house two or three times. Officials predict the new routes may add at most 10 minutes to the rides of those children who are affected; the change does not affect the bus to South Williamstown.
Looked at a school calendar for next year that would set the first student day at Sept. 5 and have a projected final day (barring snow days) of June 15. Brookner said the calendar would align with those at Mount Greylock, where the teachers' contract prohibits starting school before Labor Day, and Lanesborough Elementary. School Committee member John Skavlem urged the district to consider eliminating the February vacation week in the future considering how snow days (this year there have been five) push the school year closer and closer to the end of June.
Encouraged families with children who will enter kindergarten in the fall to register March 8 and 9 at the school. The school is hoping to avoid last-minute registrations in August that could, at worst, force it to open an additional classroom it does not anticipate.
Heard from Brookner that the 2017 Renzi Award for citizenship honoring former teacher and administrator Helen Renzi will be given on Friday to sixth-graders Annabelle Art, Lucy Igoe, Krish Sharma and Jacob Stokes. "It's not a recognition for academics or anything else," Brookner said. "It's an award for children who go above and beyond reaching out to others and being incredibly good friends."
This story was updated on Friday, March 3, to clarify the impact of the planned change in bus routes.
A U.K. pharmacy chain will land in Korea in the second half of this year.
E-Mart said Thursday it signed an agreement with Walgreens Boots Alliance, which owns about 13,100 outlets of Boots and other global drugstore chains in 11 countries.
Family Nurse Practitioner Joins CHP Health Center
PITTSFIELD, Mass. Family nurse practitioner Rebecca Gamache has joined the primary care team at Community Health Centers Neighborhood Health Center in Pittsfield.
Gamache earned her undergraduate degree in nursing from UMass-Amherst and a masters degree in nursing from Sage Graduate School in Troy, N.Y.
A Berkshire County native, she previously worked as a registered nurse at Berkshire Medical Center and for Berkshire County ARC. Her primary focus is health promotion and disease prevention, and she has a strong interest in incorporating holistic treatment options into her practice, which includes patients of all ages.
Southern Berkshire Regional Selects New Superintendent
Beth Regulbuto via LinkedIn
SHEFFIELD, Mass. The School Committee of the Southern Berkshire Regional School District voted Thursday to enter into negotiations with Beth Regulbuto to become its next superintendent.
Regulbuto is currently the associate superintendent of schools at the Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District, where she has worked in different capacities since 2007. She has an undergraduate degree in accounting and a master's of education degree in organizational management.
Prior to her administrative work at Hampden-Wilbraham, she was an early childhood and performing arts teacher for several decades. It is expected that a contract will be brought to the School Committee for ratification within a few weeks. Regulbuto will start her new role on July 1, upon the retirement of David Hastings on June 30. Hastings has held the position of superintendent since July 2013.
"It will be an honor to work closely with the School Committee, teachers and administrators, students, parents and community members to help lead the Southern Berkshire Regional School District into its next phase," said Regulbuto. "I'm drawn to the unmitigated enthusiasm of the people I've met since I first came to interview in January and am so impressed with the quality of the team of leaders here. I look forward to getting to work this summer on the full range of issues ahead of us building on the great strengths of the District."
Hastings was confident he was leaving the school district "in wonderful hands."
China has intensified a crackdown so-called zero-dollar tours to Korea, where big tour groups are herded through the country for little money but heavily pushed into shopping.
The move comes after Lotte Group on Wednesday signed a deal with the government here to hand over a site for the deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense battery from the U.S.
According to tourism industry sources in Beijing, the China National Tourism Administration told the top 20 Chinese travel agencies to stop offering group tours to Korea.
Meanwhile, China's biggest state-run travel agency, CTS, has reportedly scrapped visits to Lotte duty-free shops, a prime destination for the shopping trips, and Lotte Hotel from its package tours. Chinese tourists account for more than 70 percent of revenues in Lotte duty-free shops.
Beijing says the crackdown has nothing to do with the deployment of the THAAD battery, whose radar China fears will be used to spy on its military activities, but the timing is striking. Some 30 to 40 percent of the 8 million Chinese tourists who visited Korea last year came through state-run travel agencies.
After it was revealed that the North used VX nerve agent to assassinate Kim Jong-un, the estranged half-brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, the North's representative to the UN claimed at the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva that it "has never produced or stockpiled or used chemical weapons." No one believes that for a moment.
North Korea is one of only four countries not to join the Chemical Weapons Convention banning the use of such weapons of mass destruction. If it is telling the truth, why not join the CWD immediately and agree to international inspections?
Since its nuclear weapons program was exposed, the North has variously claimed over the past decade that it has no plans to develop nuclear weapons, tested them, and finally declared itself a nuclear-armed state. Seoul estimates that North Korea has up to 5,000 tons of chemical weapons in its arsenal, more than enough to annihilate the entire South Korean population.
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, which was established in 1997 and has 192 member nations, said last year that one of its biggest concerns is North Korea's chemical weapons program. The UN in a resolution has demanded that the North scrap its chemical and biological weapons.
North Korea is once again trying to escape blame by telling lies and making threats. That worked for the longest time but will work no longer. It is preposterous that a violent criminal state like North Korea is part of the UN Conference on Disarmament. In fact, the North no longer has any right to the privileges of UN membership after persistently snubbing and ignoring the global body.
The international community must give serious thought to whether the North should remain a member of the UN at all.
Creating jobs always tops Premier Li Keqiangs public policy agenda, which can been seen in VAT reform, support for small- and-medium-sized companies, and setting economy growth targets.
The Premier previously listed employment as the top responsibility of the government and the fundament of peoples lives.
When he visited the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security in May 2016, he said employment data is a significant basis for macroeconomic control.
As a developing country, Chinas economy is still not balanced compared to different regions, so more work should be done to create jobs and raise the populations average income, making sure everyone can benefit from economic development, the Premier said at a symposium.
If employment is a big problem, it will hurt the economy as well as social stability, he warned.
In 2016, 1.3 million jobs were created in Chinas urban areas, making it the fourth consecutive year of such achievement even in the midst of a slowing economy.
At a news conference on March 1, 2017, Yin Weimin, minister of Human Resources and Social Security, appreciated it as one of the major achievements in Chinas social-economic development last year.
International institutions also paid attention to the employment rate in China. Tom Orlik, Bloombergs Asian chief economist, recently said that employment is on an upward track in Chinas high-tech and service industry.
According to a report issued by the European Commission, Chinas strong employment data will promote continuous economic growth.
New Immigrant: Israel Is My Real Home
The Fellowship | March 3, 2017 New Immigrant: "Israel Is My Real Home"
Natalia, 44, always dreamed of making aliyah (immigrating to Israel) one day. She believed living in the Holy Land would allow her to return to her Jewish roots. I always thought that Israel is my real home, says Natalia. I felt that eventually I would make it to the Holy Land.
But she was born in Ukraine, and had built her life there, marrying her husband, Alexander, 45, and raising her 9-year-old son, Mykyta. She felt she had a stable family life so the hope of beginning a new life in Israel slowly seemed like too big of a risk. She didnt want to uproot her family.
Until war broke out in her hometown, and everything changed.
Since 2014, when the Russian-backed separatists took power in Donetsk, and in other surrounding parts of the region, the city has turned into a war zone. Once hostilities started, the frequent bombing and shelling hurt the economy. Donetsk is an industrial city, says Alexander. Since the war started, many enterprises have shut down. People have lost their jobs. Thats what happened to me.
The familys apartment was partially damaged. That forced us to leave the city for some time, says Alexander. Once we came back, things were exactly the same as they had been when we left. Things didnt get any better. The sound of exploding shells can still be heard in Donetsk.
The family decided to take a Fellowship Freedom Flight to the Holy Land.
It was the thought of moving to Israel that gave our family the strength to survive under the tough conditions, says Natalia.
Its a new life adventure, says Mykyta.
This Fellowship Freedom Flight is an opportunity to start a new life after experiencing the horrors of war, adds Alexander.
Alexander plans to learn Hebrew and find a job right away. Were not afraid of taking any job that comes our way, says Alexander.
What I also like about Israel is the fact that you can start your own business. My son has a dream of opening his own small cafe. Ill help him when he opens it, says Natalia.
They feel blessed by The Fellowship and our wonderful donors for providing so much support to their family. Im amazed that the donors are so willing to help people while not asking for anything in return, says Natalia. Its simply priceless. Thank you.
Safe drinking water in disadvantaged communities
Sacramento, California - The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will be discussing issues related to safe drinking water in disadvantaged communities at its upcoming meeting on Tuesday, March 7th. The meeting will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 N Street Main Auditorium, Sacramento.
All Californians have a right to safe drinking water, said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. Finding broad long-term solutions for impacted communities is critical and involves many stakeholders. The agricultural community is an active participant in those discussions and farmers and ranchers continue to use the latest research findings and best practices to protect groundwater supplies.
Invited speakers include: Darrin Polhemus, State Water Resources Control Board; Laurel Firestone, Community Water Center; Wade Crowfoot, Water Foundation; Cindy Tuck, Association of California Water Agencies; Gail Delihant, Western Growers; Tim Johnson, California Rice Commission; Emily Rooney, Agricultural Council of California; David Cory, Consultant and Ismael Herrera, California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley.
Water quality issues associated with drinking water are taken very seriously by agriculture, said President Craig McNamara, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. Long term solutions to water quality challenges should include consideration of a public role at the state and federal levels.
The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and the CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs. The state board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials, agricultural representatives and citizens to discuss current issues of concern to California agriculture.
All meetings are open to the public and attendance is welcome.
This Isnt Our Last Love Letter
Dear Don Don,
Way back in 92
I walked into the room and knew
Never felt this way before
I shook your hand while gazing into your eyes
And the feeling grew
As I took a seat I knew
A love that would have my heart
Forever
I knew
Way back in 92
They say love at first sight doesnt always last or isnt true
We were the exception to that rule
Our love had no where to hide
A spark set fire
As if this is how the universe started
I never doubted our love or what we could do
Together we grew
Forming a bond everlasting
That became our glue
My euphoria was YOU
Im eternally grateful for the love and life we shared
For how fortunate we were :
to have and to hold
through sickness and in health
Til death do us part
Until we are together again
This isnt our last love letter
I love you with all my heart and soul
Yours forever,
Deirdre (Mrs. Hank Snow)
Im fortunate to have fallen in love with, marry and make a life with the sharpest, coolest, funniest, most rare, bad ass, tender loving, loyal man on the planet, my husband Don Imus.
A True American Hero
I dont know why it has been so hard for me to write about my dear friend Don Imus.
I certainly know what he meant to me, my family, my charity, my hospital and the millions of fans that listened and loved him for so many years.
I keep reading all the beautiful condolences that people are writing about how much a part of their lives were effected by listening to him over the years.
But what most people dont talk enough about is what he did for all of us.
In every sense of the word, he was an American Hero. His work with children with so many different illnesses and his dedication to their future was unmatched by anyone I have ever known or heard about.
Besides raising over $100,000,000 for so many causes, he took care of young people for over 20 years in a state where he could not breathe. Along with his incredible wife Deirdre, he created a world where children were not defined by their disease. That was a miracle! He was a miracle.
I will miss him ever day for the rest of my life.
I was blessed to be a part of his and Deirdes life.
No one will ever do what he did.
I love you Don Imus - A TRUE AMERICAN HERO
David Jurist
IMUS IN THE MORNING
FIRST DAY BACK!
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From Dismaland to The Son of a Migrant from Syria, Banksy has created some of the most thought-provoking artworks in recent history.
In another bold statement, the famed graffiti artist has opened a hotel just metres away from the controversial barrier wall that separates the Israeli and Palestinian territory in the West Bank.
Titled The Walled Off Hotel, the nine-bedroom building based in Bethlehem is staffed by local people - none of whom knew Banksy was the one setting up the hotel - and aims to bring tourists to the destination.
While the anonymous artists team are insisting the hotel is a real business venture, not an art stunt according to The Guardian, there are dozens of Banksy works within, as well as a themed bar and interactive exhibits.
The signing of the Balfour Declaration - which helped establish Israel 100 year ago - is depicted in one, while the hotel is decorated to resemble an English gentlemens club from colonial times to represent Britains role in the region.
Inside Banksy's Dismaland Show all 13 1 /13 Inside Banksy's Dismaland Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park "Seagull Attack" by Banksy sits near the entrance, proved to be a bit of a photo opportunity, a taxidermied seagull perches on the other side of the bench Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park The Bill Barminski - Cardboard security entrance, visitors must first get through security to enter the park. This can include being searched, emptying bags and even being instructed to touch your toes. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park Dismaland opened to the general public this weekend and everyone seems to be talking about it. Many have speculated whether long queues and website crashing issues are purposeful in order to make Dismaland that little bit more dismal. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland Dismaland19.jpg The Bill Barminski - Cardboard security entrance, visitors must first get through security to enter the park. This can include being searched, emptying bags and even being instructed to touch your toes. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park Visitors are handed their very own guide to the park inside, featuring the names of the installations and show-times. On the front it brands Dismaland "the UK's most disappointing visitor attraction". Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park An overview of the park, set on the former site of Tropicana. Tropicana was closed in the 1990's and since then has had rumours of regeneration. The exhibition will be the first major event on site since its heyday as a seaside attraction. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park "Topple the anvil and win the anvil" - just one of the many disappointing games visitors can try their hand at. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park "What its really like to be a princess" the scene of Cinderella hanging lifeless outside her pumpkin carriage as paparazzi surround it inside the castle in the center of the park. A dark reference to the death of Princess Diana. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park Mushroom Cloud made of Cotton by Artist Dietrich Wegner Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park A twist on theme park boating games the white cliffs of dover provide a backdrop to boats of migrants and faceless bodies float in the black water. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park "Killer Whale jumping from a toilet" a piece by Banksy as a reference to the treatment of orca's in seaworld parks. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park In classic Banksy style he applies his stencilling technique to a mural named "woman showering" when talking about the exhibition Banksy declared that he was aiming for something very different to street art. Reuters Inside Banksy's Dismaland A Look Inside Dismaland Bemusement Park Another piece by banksy looms above a lake referencing Jeffrey Archer Reuters
Channel 4 news detail how Banksy wants people from all sides of the Middle East conflict to stay, and that he has no affiliation with any political party.
Banksy first visited Bethlehem in 2005, when he stenciled some of his best-known works on the West Bank wall. One depicted a man wearing a balaclava throwing flowers, while the other featured a girl frisking a soldier.
The hotel marks the artist's first major installation since Dismaland, the temporary theme park that appeared in 2015 at Weston-super-Mare.
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We are the children of history. When we tell the stories of our forefathers, we speak also of how weve been moulded. The deep wounds left behind by the division of British India in 1947, forming the independent dominions of India and Pakistan, mark not only a crucial moment in each countrys history but in the personal stories of its people.
It shaped the story of Gurinder Chadha, certainly. After partition, her family were forced to flee their homes, her fathers youngest sister starving to death on the journey.
Though her film, Viceroys House, may embrace the greater political machinations at work, it becomes also an intimate reflection of the pain suffered by her relatives, their friends and all people caught in the midst of an agonising birth of nations.
The British had occupied India for more than 300 years. In August 1947, however, they decided to leave for the simplest of reasons: the Second World War had stripped them of the resources needed to sustain control over the territory. What they left behind was a nightmare of their own making, one seemingly impossible to repair by this point.
Britains empire, of course, lived by the phrase divide and rule and India proved no outlier, with a great divide slowly carved between the major religions in the country Hinduism and Sikhism vs Islam to keep them all weak and under their will, too busy fighting each other instead of their oppressors.
These were people who had peacefully coexisted for several millennia before an empire had begun to define communities by religious population, separated by different schools, textbooks and elections, slowly building the myth that a free, united India could exist only as a dream.
When independence finally loomed, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the leader of the Muslim League, began to demand a separate Pakistan out of fear his people would become second-class citizens in an independent India; while in turn promising Pakistan would grant religious freedom to all.
Where would the border between a separate Pakistan and India fall, however? Especially when both the Punjab and Bengal shared a near-equal mix of Muslims and Hindus. Furthermore, relations between Jinnah and the other two prominent leaders, Mohandas Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru of the Hindu-dominated Congress Party, had become particularly poisonous.
Viceroy's House - Trailer
Chadhas film leaps into the midst of this conflict, specifically in the arrival of Lord Louis Mounbatten to Viceroys House in March, 1947; instructed to fill in the role as the last Viceroy to India, tasked with ensuring a smooth transfer of imperial power.
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What he arrived to, however, was a nightmare: a ticking time bomb that saw sectarian violence increasing by the day, though too swift an exit would threaten to destroy any chance of healing those wounds. Mountbatten would leave behind, too, a nation with a woefully neglected infrastructure, in which 92 per cent of its population was illiterate and around half its children would die before their fifth birthday.
The trauma of such unspeakable violence concentrated itself in the contested states of the Punjab and Bengal, places where massacres, arson, forced conversion, mass abductions, and brutal sexual violence became a daily occurrence.
Gurinder Chadha poses for photographers during a photocall for the film 'Viceroys House' in competition at the 67th Berlinale film festival in Berlin (Getty)
An estimated 75,000 women were raped, with many also disfigured and dismembered. In 1946, a massacre in Calcutta cost 5,000 lives. With the added pressure of the British, Gandhi and Nehru eventually agreed partition to be the only solution to end such chaos.
In June 1947 an announcement was suddenly made that 15 August would mark the official transfer of power, 10 months earlier than expected. Cyril Radcliffe, the British judge enlisted to draw the borderline, was given only 40 days to complete such a momentous task; with the final border eventually being revealed two days after Indias independence.
It was a hastened compromise that would leave all parties dissatisfied, particularly in how carelessly the Punjab and Bengal had been divided.
Viceroy's House Clip - Dickie Gets Dressed
The border struck itself across maps like the scar it embedded deep within both countries, even in the moment of their birth; sparking one of the greatest migrations in human history, seeing 14 million people displaced and more than a million die, as Muslims trekked to Pakistan and Hindus and Sikhs to India.
The partition did not bring an immediate end to the violence either, as trains of refugees fleeing the violence were met with only more violence, their carriages repeatedly ambushed and their passengers slaughtered.
Viceroys House itself focuses on individual stories, not only of Mountbatten but of a fictional love affair between a Hindu man and a Muslim woman threatened to be torn to shreds when the partition descends and they must choose their love for each other and their loyalty to their family.
In a way, Chadhas focused vision is a way of digesting a horror which can seem so incomprehensible, but which has become so central to the modern identity of the Indian subcontinent.
Viceroy's House is out now
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Tom Hanks has been a vocal opponent of Donald Trumps ever since the Republican announced his run for Presidency.
With the current administration attempting to label respectable news sources Fake News, Hanks has is doing his part to keep the press caffeinated.
The Forest Gump actor sent an espresso machine to the White House press corps with a wonderful message: Keep up the good fight for Truth, Justice and the American way. Especially for the Truth part.
Alongside the note, a drawing of wounded soldiers captioned: Fresh, spirited American troops, flushed with victory, are bringing in thousands of hungry, ragged, battle-weary prisoners.
The Academy Award winner previously sent an espresso machine to the press corps in 2004 during George W. Bushs presidency. In 2010, he checked up on the machine, joking to the press: You know you are supposed to clean this after every use. You are supposed to wipe that off. Look at the buildup there.
Trump recently came under fire after banning various publications - including CNN, the BBC, and The New York Times - from attending an off-camera White House gaggle. Soon after, The Washington Post changed their slogan to Democracy Dies in Darkness in protest.
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
Hanks - who endorsed Hilary Clinton - has been a vocal critic of Trumps, previously saying he was personally offended by his lewd grab her by the p***y comments.
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Former president George W. Bush stopped in to Jimmy Kimmel Live! this week (hes got a book coming out) and conversation quickly turned to last weekends Kimmel-hosted Oscars.
Bush thought it was damn good, but in particular Kimmels intro monologue.
I watched the replay, I actually watched - Im going to pander - I thought your opening was damn good, Bush told him.
Thatll be the one in which Kimmel said I want to say thank you to President Trump. I mean, remember last year when it seemed like the Oscars were racist? then.
Oscars 2017: Jimmy Kimmel on Trump
The pair didnt talk specifically about the new president on the show, but spent most of the interview talking around him, with Kimmel asking Bush if he watched TV while in the White House (Trump, notoriously, is a TV addict).
No, never really did, Bush replied, concurring with Kimmel when he suggested a president probably shouldnt.
You got a lot to do, youre busy, Bush added.
It was generally quite a surreal piece of television, the world having got to a point where a TV audience will now clap and cheer George W. Bush.
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The Walking Dead season seven continues with what seems to be something of a departure episode focusing largely on Rick and Michonne's attempts to acquire weaponry for their war against The Saviours.
It seems that this episode - titled 'Say Yes' - will see the couple come across a horde of walkers at what was once a fairground pre-apocalypse. Discovering bullets on the floor, Rick - bolstered by his newly-acquired allies - uses the opportunity to seek out more guns in the upcoming all-out war.
You can watch a clip from the new episode above, and the trailer below.
The Walking Dead Season 7 Episode 12 Promo
This being The Walking Dead, disaster soon strikes and the duo soon find themselves in mortal danger.
Elsewhere, Rosita (Christian Serratos) is growing frustrated with the group's inability to strike against Negan immediately. Will her refusal to wait spell disaster for the group once again?
The episode synopsis reads: Members of the group scavenge for supplies. Meanwhile, back in Alexandria, someone must make a morally challenging decision.
The most shocking Walking Dead moments Show all 10 1 /10 The most shocking Walking Dead moments The most shocking Walking Dead moments Sophie's a walker (season 2, episode 7) Much of season two's opening half is spent looking for Sophia, the missing daughter of Carol (Melissa McBride). Turns out she was locked up in Hershel's barn as a zombie all along. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Shane reanimates without being bitten (season 2, episode 12) When Carl (Chandler Riggs) guns down a deranged Shane (Jon Bernthal) to protect his father, the shock arrives when he manifests into a walker despite not being bitten; turns out everyone's infected with the virus and will turn whichever way they die. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Axel's bullet to the eye (season 3, episode 10) A character introduced in the show's prison arc, Axel is a reformed prisoner who strikes up a friendship with Carol - until he's gunned down mid-sentence. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Carl kills Lori after she gives birth (season 3, episode 4) Lori (Sarah Wayne Callies) goes into labour at the very moment a zombie siege breaks out at the prison. Unfortunately, she doesn't make it through the procedure with her son Carl being the one to put a bullet to her head. The most shocking Walking Dead moments The Governor slays Hershel (season 4, episode 8) The Governor makes his dramatic return for a showdown at the prison after he captures Michonne (Danai Gurira) and Hershel (Scott Wilson). Rick reaches out, attempting to reason with him - but The Governor starts a war when he proceeds to decapitate poor old Hershel instead. The most shocking Walking Dead moments "Look at the flowers" (season 4, episode 14) In a standout episode from the show's fourth season, Carol is forced to take drastic measures when young teenager Lizzie murders her sister Mika in the belief that she'll live on as a zombie. Realising Lizzie's depraved mind would endanger those around her, Carol puts a gun to the young girl's head and, telling her to "look at the flowers," pulls the trigger, fighting back the tears. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Carl's bullet to the eye (season 6, episode 9) Season six returned from its mid-season break in typically dramatic fashion when an iconic moment from the graphic novels came to life: Carl takes a bullet to the eye. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Beth is killed (season 5, episode 8) Upon being kidnapped, Beth (Emily Kinney) is taken to Grady Memorial Hospital managed by Atlanta Law Enforcement. Forced to reside there against her will, the group - including Rick and Daryl (Norman Reedus) - eventually find her - only for her to be accidentally shot in the head by her captor. The worst thing? Her sister Maggie (Lauren Cohan) had just arrived outside. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Negan kills Abraham Season seven opened in brutal form as we discovered it was Abraham (Michael Cudlitz) at the opposite end of Negan's baseball bat. "Suck my nuts," the soldier growls as the Saviours' leader brings Lucille raining down on his head until nothing remains but a pulpy mess. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Negan kills Glenn Negan decides to punish the group once more after getting clocked round the face by Daryl. Without expectation, he thwacks Lucille round the head of poor Glenn. With his eyeball popping out of his head, he manages: "I'll find you, Maggie before Negan proceeds to finish the job ending the former pizza delivery boy's life.
This week, we spoke to Daryl actor Norman Reedus as well as Seth Gilliam, the latter detailing his 'upset' over the initial backlash against his character, Father Gabriel.
The Walking Dead continues in the US this Sunday (5 March) with its UK premiere following as day later (6 March) at 9pm on FOX.
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Out of all the things fans have discovered thus far in The Walking Dead season seven, it's that - if picked correctly - music can be the perfect form of torture.
No character knows this more than Daryl Dixon; earlier this season, we saw the fan favourite locked in a cell by The Saviours subjected to torture in the form of earworm Easy Street being blasted into his cell on repeat.
We spoke to actor Norman Reedus about the show's latest run of episodes, and couldn't resist finding out what he thought about the particular track.
It turns out he didn't hear it until you did.
Reedus said: "You know, I didn't hear that song until the episode came out. We didn't hear that song while we were filming. We were just imagining a song. Then in the script, it was like a kids song, and that's what I expected it to be and then that 'Easy Street' came on and I was like, 'God this song sucks.' "
Following the first showing of the episode, we spoke to the song's writer Jim Bianco who told us he branded its usage as genius.
The Walking Dead Season 7 Episode 12 Promo
The track - performed by The Collapsable Hearts Club - could be heard again in the show's latest episode Hostiles and Calamities which saw what happened when Eugene (Josh McDermitt) arrived at the Sanctuary as Negan's prisoner. Read our review of the episode here.
The Walking Dead continues in the US this Sunday (5 March) with its UK premiere following as day later (6 March) at 9pm on FOX.
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The Walking Dead actor Seth Gilliam, who plays Father Gabriel on the show, has detailed how he found the initial fan backlash to his character to be somewhat upsetting.
Gilliam - whose most famous role previous to the AMC drama was as Ellis Carver in The Wire - first appeared in season five depicted as a coward who wasn't liked by the show's lead character Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln).
It was only towards the end of last season where fans became much more attuned to the character, and while season seven has seen him become one of Rick's most trusted allies, Gilliam told us during the show's UK press tour how the initial backlash he received was, at times, quite tough to bear.
The Walking Dead Season 7 Episode 12 Promo
He said: I've kind of let go of the popularity contest thing that gets tied into the show. At first, I was taken aback by the amount of negative response I got as the character so it was somewhat upsetting for me. Then I found the tide had turned when my character sermonised over an unarmed man and shot him in the face, he added in reference to season six episode, 'Not Tomorrow Yet.'
The most shocking Walking Dead moments Show all 10 1 /10 The most shocking Walking Dead moments The most shocking Walking Dead moments Sophie's a walker (season 2, episode 7) Much of season two's opening half is spent looking for Sophia, the missing daughter of Carol (Melissa McBride). Turns out she was locked up in Hershel's barn as a zombie all along. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Shane reanimates without being bitten (season 2, episode 12) When Carl (Chandler Riggs) guns down a deranged Shane (Jon Bernthal) to protect his father, the shock arrives when he manifests into a walker despite not being bitten; turns out everyone's infected with the virus and will turn whichever way they die. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Axel's bullet to the eye (season 3, episode 10) A character introduced in the show's prison arc, Axel is a reformed prisoner who strikes up a friendship with Carol - until he's gunned down mid-sentence. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Carl kills Lori after she gives birth (season 3, episode 4) Lori (Sarah Wayne Callies) goes into labour at the very moment a zombie siege breaks out at the prison. Unfortunately, she doesn't make it through the procedure with her son Carl being the one to put a bullet to her head. The most shocking Walking Dead moments The Governor slays Hershel (season 4, episode 8) The Governor makes his dramatic return for a showdown at the prison after he captures Michonne (Danai Gurira) and Hershel (Scott Wilson). Rick reaches out, attempting to reason with him - but The Governor starts a war when he proceeds to decapitate poor old Hershel instead. The most shocking Walking Dead moments "Look at the flowers" (season 4, episode 14) In a standout episode from the show's fourth season, Carol is forced to take drastic measures when young teenager Lizzie murders her sister Mika in the belief that she'll live on as a zombie. Realising Lizzie's depraved mind would endanger those around her, Carol puts a gun to the young girl's head and, telling her to "look at the flowers," pulls the trigger, fighting back the tears. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Carl's bullet to the eye (season 6, episode 9) Season six returned from its mid-season break in typically dramatic fashion when an iconic moment from the graphic novels came to life: Carl takes a bullet to the eye. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Beth is killed (season 5, episode 8) Upon being kidnapped, Beth (Emily Kinney) is taken to Grady Memorial Hospital managed by Atlanta Law Enforcement. Forced to reside there against her will, the group - including Rick and Daryl (Norman Reedus) - eventually find her - only for her to be accidentally shot in the head by her captor. The worst thing? Her sister Maggie (Lauren Cohan) had just arrived outside. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Negan kills Abraham Season seven opened in brutal form as we discovered it was Abraham (Michael Cudlitz) at the opposite end of Negan's baseball bat. "Suck my nuts," the soldier growls as the Saviours' leader brings Lucille raining down on his head until nothing remains but a pulpy mess. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Negan kills Glenn Negan decides to punish the group once more after getting clocked round the face by Daryl. Without expectation, he thwacks Lucille round the head of poor Glenn. With his eyeball popping out of his head, he manages: "I'll find you, Maggie before Negan proceeds to finish the job ending the former pizza delivery boy's life.
Gilliam continued: I find that if you're playing a character with the hopes of being liked, you're already lost; people are going to have their response. Hopefully, they'll understand what moments you want them to. I realised that long before I got on the show.
"The size of this show is what was somewhat offputting - the amount of the response. But I realised very early on as an actor that you can't act wanting to be loved - you have to be true to the character and the story."
Elsewhere, we spoke to actor Norman Reedus about his views on 'Easy Street,' the song used by The Saviours to torture his character, Daryl.
The Walking Dead continues in the US this Sunday (5 March) with its UK premiere following as day later (6 March) at 9pm on FOX.
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In an industry first, one of the worlds biggest oil companies has warned it could face legal action over climate change.
Chevron, the California-based multinational, admitted it could be the subject of governmental investigations and, potentially, private litigation because of its role in causing global warming.
And the firm added that regulations designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions might also render the extraction of the companys oil and gas resources economically infeasible.
Environmentalists suggested the decision to admit the threat to the company could be a reaction to legal case brought last year against Exxon Mobil by the Boston-based Conservation Law Foundation, which alleges the fossil fuel company tried to discredit climate science despite knowing the risks in order to make money.
Chevron was one of a number of oil firms targeted in a campaign by the Union of Concerned Scientists in the US to stop funding climate disinformation.
And, in an official filing about the state of its financial health to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the company lays out possible reasons why it might have been in its interest to cast doubt on scientific evidence that its products are causing a problem.
Laws requiring the reduction of emissions like legislation that could be in the UK Governments long-delayed Emissions Reduction Plan may result in increased and substantial costs and could, among other things, reduce demand for hydrocarbons, Chevron said in a section called risk factors.
In the years ahead, companies in the energy industry, like Chevron, may be challenged by an increase in international and domestic regulation relating to greenhouse gas emissions," it said.
Such regulation could have the impact of curtailing profitability in the oil and gas sector or rendering the extraction of the companys oil and gas resources economically infeasible.
The firm said that even if greenhouse gases were constrained, experts were still predicting significant demand for petroleum and natural gas.
But it added: If a new onset of regulation contributes to a decline in the demand for the companys products, this could have a material adverse effect on the company and its financial condition.
There was, Chevron admitted, a danger that the firm could be sued over global warming given its production of fossil fuels.
Increasing attention to climate change risks has resulted in an increased possibility of governmental investigations and, potentially, private litigation against the company, Chevron said.
ClientEarth, a group of activist environmental lawyers which has twice successfully sued the UK Government to force it to come up with a decent plan to reduce air pollution, said it was investigating British companies and legal action may well be on the cards.
Alice Garton, a corporate lawyer with the group, said: Fossil fuel giants face an increasing threat of legal action in relation to the physical and economic risks associated with climate change. This is called liability risk.
For fossil fuel companies it poses a material threat to financial performance and those companies must report on it.
She said it was significant that Chevron had formally recognised the risks.
But Chevron is in a real minority in acknowledging it. We expect other carbon majors to follow suit, Ms Garton said.
The future is not bright for fossil fuels. Any oil or coal major claiming a rosy financial forecast is pulling the wool over investors eyes.
10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Show all 10 1 /10 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A group of emperor penguins face a crack in the sea ice, near McMurdo Station, Antarctica Kira Morris 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Floods destroyed eight bridges and ruined crops such as wheat, maize and peas in the Karimabad valley in northern Pakistan, a mountainous region with many glaciers. In many parts of the world, glaciers have been in retreat, creating dangerously large lakes that can cause devastating flooding when the banks break. Climate change can also increase rainfall in some areas, while bringing drought to others. Hira Ali 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Smoke filled with the carbon that is driving climate change drifts across a field in Colombia. Sandra Rondon 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Amid a flood in Islampur, Jamalpur, Bangladesh, a woman on a raft searches for somewhere dry to take shelter. Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable places in the world to sea level rise, which is expected to make tens of millions of people homeless by 2050. Probal Rashid 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Sindh province in Pakistan has experienced a grim mix of two consequences of climate change. Because of climate change either we have floods or not enough water to irrigate our crop and feed our animals, says the photographer. Picture clearly indicates that the extreme drought makes wide cracks in clay. Crops are very difficult to grow. Rizwan Dharejo 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Hanna Petursdottir examines a cave inside the Svinafellsjokull glacier in Iceland, which she said had been growing rapidly. Since 2000, the size of glaciers on Iceland has reduced by 12 per cent. Tom Schifanella 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A river once flowed along the depression in the dry earth of this part of Bangladesh, but it has disappeared amid rising temperatures. Abrar Hossain 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A shepherd moves his herd as he looks for green pasture near the village of Sirohi in Rajasthan, northern India. The region has been badly affected by heatwaves and drought, making local people nervous about further predicted increases in temperature. Riddhima Singh Bhati 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A factory in China is shrouded by a haze of air pollution. The World Health Organisation has warned such pollution, much of which is from the fossil fuels that cause climate change, is a public health emergency. Leung Ka Wa 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Water levels in reservoirs, like this one in Gers, France, have been getting perilously low in areas across the world affected by drought, forcing authorities to introduce water restrictions. Mahtuf Ikhsan
If these companies want to avoid being sued, they need to start taking climate change seriously, adapt their business models in line with the Paris Agreement, stop funding climate denialism and withdraw from trade associations who actively undermine strong climate policy.
If they dont, they can expect liability risk to translate to reality. ClientEarth is looking into how far UK-listed companies are addressing these issues. Legal action may well be on the cards.
She also noted that Chevron was accepting that investors money could end up being lost as regulations restrict greenhouse gas emissions.
Chevron has also admitted that changes in climate law could result in stranded assets, she said.
This is another giant risk faced by fossil fuel companies, but even after years of it being in public discourse, it has yet to be taken seriously enough by fossil fuel companies or stock markets or communicated to investors.
Greenpeace UK's senior climate adviser Charlie Kronick noted Chevrons position had shifted from barely acknowledging the dangers of climate change to being the first oil major to explicitly warn investors about the material risk from potential climate lawsuits against the company in just a few years.
The combined effect of the Paris Agreement and the Exxon investigation seems to have brought home for Chevron the financial and legal implications of their denial, he said.
Like other oil giants, Chevron has to face the fact that its entire business model is predicated on extremely dangerous levels of climate change.
Chevron has to decide whether it wants to be part of the problem or be part of the solution, because it cannot be both.
Chevron said in an email that it had no additional comments beyond its SEC filing.
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There has been a lot going on in the States of late.
Naturally, Congress has been discussing the big issues, including abortion, Obamacare and, well, almond milk.
A new bill has been created that seeks to ban dairy alternatives from using the term milk.
Recommended Donald Trump ended his first address to Congress by signing autographs
Titled the DAIRY PRIDE Act, the name is a tenuous acronym for defending against imitations and replacements of yogurt, milk, and cheese to promote regular intake of dairy every day.
The bill was introduced in January by two democrats, Sen. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Rep. Peter Welch of Vermont.
It argues that the dairy industry is struggling as a result of all the dairy-free alternatives on the market and the public are being duped too.
Of course, its not just almond milk - there are all sorts of dairy-free milks (also known as mylks) widely available, including soya, oat, coconut, hemp, hazelnut and cashew.
According to the bill, the fact that said alternatives are allowed to call themselves milk hurts dairy farmers that work tirelessly to ensure their dairy products meet FDA standards and provide the public with nutritious food.
It has also led to the proliferation of mislabeled plant-based alternative products that contain a range of ingredients and nutrients that are often not equivalent to the nutrition content of dairy products.
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According to Baldwin, Wisconsin dairy farmers work tirelessly every day to ensure that their milk meets high standards for nutritional value and quality, but imitation products have gotten away with using dairys good name for their own benefit, which is against the law and must be enforced.
As interest in veganism increases, consumption of plant-based milks is equally on the up.
But farmers have been complaining for some time now.
While imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, the increasingly common practice of labeling beverages as milk when they quite obviously are not is wrong and misleading, said Brad Nevin, Dairy farmer and member-owner of Associated Milk Producers Inc. (AMPI) in Rice Lake, Wisconsin.
Dairy has built a strong reputation as a reliable source of important nutrients we need daily, added Janet Clark of Vision Aire Farms in Eldorado.
To use these dairy terms on plant-based products undermines the real value that dairy provides in the form of naturally occurring Calcium, Vitamin D, Vitamin A among others. Consumers associate dairy with the nutrients they need, and those are naturally occurring in milk from cows.
However if plant-based milks shouldnt be allowed to call themselves milk, you could also argue that peanut butter shouldnt call itself butter and the same goes for cornbread and bread.
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Amazon accidentally took down large swathes of the internet with just one typo.
This week, many of the world's biggest websites and services stopped working because of a problem with Amazon Web Services, the platform that the retailer provides to power people's websites. One of its sites went offline because of the issue and since thousands of websites rely on it, including many of the world's biggest, they immediately went competely offline or stopped working.
Websites like Quora, Trello and some of the world's biggest news sites went offline or stopped working properly when the issue happened. It even emerged that people's houses broke down internet-enabled ovens, lights and front gates stopped working as a result of the outage.
Gadget and tech news: In pictures Show all 25 1 /25 Gadget and tech news: In pictures Gadget and tech news: In pictures Gun-toting humanoid robot sent into space Russia has launched a humanoid robot into space on a rocket bound for the International Space Station (ISS). The robot Fedor will spend 10 days aboard the ISS practising skills such as using tools to fix issues onboard. Russia's deputy prime minister Dmitry Rogozin has previously shared videos of Fedor handling and shooting guns at a firing range with deadly accuracy. Dmitry Rogozin/Twitter Gadget and tech news: In pictures Google turns 21 Google celebrates its 21st birthday on September 27. The The search engine was founded in September 1998 by two PhD students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, in their dormitories at Californias Stanford University. Page and Brin chose the name google as it recalled the mathematic term 'googol', meaning 10 raised to the power of 100 Google Gadget and tech news: In pictures Hexa drone lifts off Chief engineer of LIFT aircraft Balazs Kerulo demonstrates the company's "Hexa" personal drone craft in Lago Vista, Texas on June 3 2019 Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures Project Scarlett to succeed Xbox One Microsoft announced Project Scarlett, the successor to the Xbox One, at E3 2019. The company said that the new console will be 4 times as powerful as the Xbox One and is slated for a release date of Christmas 2020 Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures First new iPod in four years Apple has announced the new iPod Touch, the first new iPod in four years. The device will have the option of adding more storage, up to 256GB Apple Gadget and tech news: In pictures Folding phone may flop Samsung will cancel orders of its Galaxy Fold phone at the end of May if the phone is not then ready for sale. The $2000 folding phone has been found to break easily with review copies being recalled after backlash PA Gadget and tech news: In pictures Charging mat non-starter Apple has cancelled its AirPower wireless charging mat, which was slated as a way to charge numerous apple products at once AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures "Super league" India shoots down satellite India has claimed status as part of a "super league" of nations after shooting down a live satellite in a test of new missile technology EPA Gadget and tech news: In pictures 5G incoming 5G wireless internet is expected to launch in 2019, with the potential to reach speeds of 50mb/s Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Uber halts driverless testing after death Uber has halted testing of driverless vehicles after a woman was killed by one of their cars in Tempe, Arizona. March 19 2018 Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A humanoid robot gestures during a demo at a stall in the Indian Machine Tools Expo, IMTEX/Tooltech 2017 held in Bangalore Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A humanoid robot gestures during a demo at a stall in the Indian Machine Tools Expo, IMTEX/Tooltech 2017 held in Bangalore Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures The giant human-like robot bears a striking resemblance to the military robots starring in the movie 'Avatar' and is claimed as a world first by its creators from a South Korean robotic company Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Waseda University's saxophonist robot WAS-5, developed by professor Atsuo Takanishi Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures Waseda University's saxophonist robot WAS-5, developed by professor Atsuo Takanishi and Kaptain Rock playing one string light saber guitar perform jam session Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures A test line of a new energy suspension railway resembling the giant panda is seen in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A test line of a new energy suspension railway, resembling a giant panda, is seen in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A concept car by Trumpchi from GAC Group is shown at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures A Mirai fuel cell vehicle by Toyota is displayed at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A visitor tries a Nissan VR experience at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A man looks at an exhibit entitled 'Mimus' a giant industrial robot which has been reprogrammed to interact with humans during a photocall at the new Design Museum in South Kensington, London Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A new Israeli Da-Vinci unmanned aerial vehicle manufactured by Elbit Systems is displayed during the 4th International conference on Home Land Security and Cyber in the Israeli coastal city of Tel Aviv Getty
Now it has emerged that all of those problems were the result of just one small typo on a set of servers.
The team at Amazon's Simple Storage Service were working to remove a small set of servers from its system, according to a technical report into the incident. As it did so, someone entered the wrong command and removed "a larger set of servers was removed than intended".
One of the two servers that were affected was one that manages the "metadata and location information of all S3 objects" in the Virginia data centre, according to the post. That meant that many of the core processes broke down and the server centre could no longer be used.
To fix that problem, Amazon had to fully restart all of the affected systems. But that was a huge operation Amazon said it hadn't done one for "many years and it took even longer than expected, meaning the problem couldn't be fixed quickly.
The company says it has now added a range of fixes to stop the issue happening again. It has modified the tools that deal with such problems to cope more efficiently, and is auditing the rest of the systems, it said.
It also announced that it would make changes to the page that shows whether the service is actually online. Even as Amazon Web Services and the websites that rely on it were falling over, its update page said that everything was fine because that same page relied on S3 and so was affected by its own outage. It will now rely on different data centres so that it wouldn't buckle if just one went down, it said.
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The little loved outsourcing company Capita has just reported an ugly set of results. It's parting company with its chief executive, has seen 300m wiped from its market value, and is set to get booted out of the FTSE 100.
I image most people can bear its misfortunes with a great deal of fortitude. The company is in the middle of a nasty scandal over its collection of TV licence money on behalf of the BBC, which is investigating allegations that collectors, motivated by an aggressive incentive scheme, targeted vulnerable people.
It also runs much criticised assessments of the eligibility of disabled people for personal independence payments on behalf of the Department for Work & Pensions. That business led to calls for an investigation last year after Channel Four caught one assessor on film dismissing a claimants disability known as fat.
The broadcaster's Dispatches team sent a psychiatric nurse through Capitas disability assessment training, where a senior staff member urged him to do as many assessments a day as you can possibly manage. Drag 'em in, get 'em rejected, and put another penny on the shareholders' dividend.
Oh and it looks after the London Congestion Charge too.
For one company to perform just those three wildly disparate functions well would be quite something. But Capita does far more than that.
Heres a list of operations culled from its website: business process management, business transformation, corporate and administration services, customer management, debt solutions, digital and software solutions, financial services, HR and recruitment, information technology, legal services, procurement, property and infrastructure, travel and events.
With all that on its plate, is it any wonder scandals keep on emerging? The ones I referred to above are just the most recent.
The phrase jack of all trades, master of none springs to mind. The companys results certainly bear that out. Pre tax profits fell by a third. Underlying profits, predicted to be 515m in the most recent profit warning, landed at 475m.
Chief executive Andy Parker, who will depart later this year, described 2016 as a challenging year. No kidding. He says the company has streamlined its structure, improved accountability. Its pulling out of some areas, but still boasts about a bid pipeline of 3.8bn.
That might provide some consolation for Capita shareholders. Its highly debatable whether the same is true for the public, if and when people end up encountering Capita either directly or indirectly through the services the Government contracts with it to provide.
For their contracts companies like Capita bid against other companies, and cost seems to be the only criteria that matters when it comes to selecting the winners.
Driven to provide services cheaply, and turn as much of a profit as possible when so doing, is it any wonder that scandals such as those Ive just referred to emerge with such regularity?
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.
It isnt just Capita, of course. There is a long and sorry list of outsourcing outfits that have hit problems in recent times. Governments, of all colours, never seem to see the problem. The companies they do business with try to do to much, are spread to thin, and are often managed badly.
The appointment of an external successor (to Mr Parker) will revive discussion regarding whether Capita needs to shrink back to a higher quality core, opined analysts at Jeffries. Again, no kidding.
A no less pertinent discussion should be held over whether companies like it should be allowed to play such a key role in the provision of state services. But I very much doubt whether it will be held. So Capita will survive to win more Government contracts.
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Two pharmaceutical firms have been accused of signing an illegal deal with each other, driving up prices of a life-saving drug.
The UKs Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) alleges that Concordia and Actavis UK entered into agreements under which the latter incentivised the former not to enter the market with its own competing version of hydrocortisone tablets.
Hydrocortisone tablets are used by people with adrenal insufficiency, a life-threatening condition where their adrenal glands do not produce enough natural steroid hormones. Around 943,000 packets of the tablets were distributed over the last year, according to the CMA.
The CMA on Friday said that both companies broke competition law by reaching these anti-competitive agreements and that Actavis UK abused its dominant position by inducing Concordia to delay its independent entry into the market.
Under the deal, Actavis UK supplied Concordia with a fixed supply of its own 10mg tablets for a very low price for Concordia to resell to UK customers.
The cost of the NHS drug rose from 49 to 88 per pack between January 2013 and June 2016 when the agreements between the companies were in place, according to the CMA.
"We allege these agreements were intended to keep Actavis UK as the sole supplier of a drug relied on by thousands of patients - and in a position which could allow it to dictate and prolong high prices, Andrew Groves, senior responsible officer at the CMA said.
Mr Grove added that for now the findings were only provisional and that no conclusion should be drawn at this stage.
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The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has more than 100 officials investigating the cause of the mystery illness, and has warned citizens against smoking e-cigarette products until more is known, particularly if modified or bought off the street Getty Health news in pictures Baldness cure looks to be a step closer Researchers in the US claim to have overcome one of the major hurdles to cultivating human follicles from stem cells. The new system allows cells to grow in a structured tuft and emerge from the skin Sanford Burnham Preybs Health news in pictures Two hours a week spent in nature can improve health A study in the journal Scientific Reports suggests that a dose of nature of just two hours a week is associated with better health and psychological wellbeing Shutterstock Health news in pictures Air pollution linked to fertility issues in women Exposure to air from traffic-clogged streets could leave women with fewer years to have children, a study has found. Italian researchers found women living in the most polluted areas were three times more likely to show signs they were running low on eggs than those who lived in cleaner surroundings, potentially triggering an earlier menopause Getty/iStock Health news in pictures Junk food ads could be banned before watershed Junk food adverts on TV and online could be banned before 9pm as part of Government plans to fight the "epidemic" of childhood obesity. Plans for the new watershed have been put out for public consultation in a bid to combat the growing crisis, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said PA Health news in pictures Breeding with neanderthals helped humans fight diseases On migrating from Africa around 70,000 years ago, humans bumped into the neanderthals of Eurasia. While humans were weak to the diseases of the new lands, breeding with the resident neanderthals made for a better equipped immune system PA Health news in pictures Cancer breath test to be trialled in Britain The breath biopsy device is designed to detect cancer hallmarks in molecules exhaled by patients Getty Health news in pictures Average 10 year old has consumed the recommended amount of sugar for an adult By their 10th birthdy, children have on average already eaten more sugar than the recommended amount for an 18 year old. The average 10 year old consumes the equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day, 8 more than is recommended PA Health news in pictures Child health experts advise switching off screens an hour before bed While there is not enough evidence of harm to recommend UK-wide limits on screen use, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have advised that children should avoid screens for an hour before bed time to avoid disrupting their sleep Getty Health news in pictures Daily aspirin is unnecessary for older people in good health, study finds A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that many elderly people are taking daily aspirin to little or no avail Getty Health news in pictures Vaping could lead to cancer, US study finds A study by the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Centre has found that the carcinogenic chemicals formaldehyde, acrolein, and methylglyoxal are present in the saliva of E-cigarette users Reuters Health news in pictures More children are obese and diabetic There has been a 41% increase in children with type 2 diabetes since 2014, the National Paediatric Diabetes Audit has found. Obesity is a leading cause Reuters Health news in pictures Most child antidepressants are ineffective and can lead to suicidal thoughts The majority of antidepressants are ineffective and may be unsafe, for children and teenager with major depression, experts have warned. In what is the most comprehensive comparison of 14 commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs to date, researchers found that only one brand was more effective at relieving symptoms of depression than a placebo. Another popular drug, venlafaxine, was shown increase the risk users engaging in suicidal thoughts and attempts at suicide Getty Health news in pictures Gay, lesbian and bisexual adults at higher risk of heart disease, study claims Researchers at the Baptist Health South Florida Clinic in Miami focused on seven areas of controllable heart health and found these minority groups were particularly likely to be smokers and to have poorly controlled blood sugar iStock Health news in pictures Breakfast cereals targeted at children contain 'steadily high' sugar levels since 1992 despite producer claims A major pressure group has issued a fresh warning about perilously high amounts of sugar in breakfast cereals, specifically those designed for children, and has said that levels have barely been cut at all in the last two and a half decades Getty Health news in pictures Potholes are making us fat, NHS watchdog warns New guidance by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the body which determines what treatment the NHS should fund, said lax road repairs and car-dominated streets were contributing to the obesity epidemic by preventing members of the public from keeping active PA Health news in pictures New menopause drugs offer women relief from 'debilitating' hot flushes A new class of treatments for women going through the menopause is able to reduce numbers of debilitating hot flushes by as much as three quarters in a matter of days, a trial has found. The drug used in the trial belongs to a group known as NKB antagonists (blockers), which were developed as a treatment for schizophrenia but have been sitting on a shelf unused, according to Professor Waljit Dhillo, a professor of endocrinology and metabolism REX Health news in pictures Doctors should prescribe more antidepressants for people with mental health problems, study finds Research from Oxford University found that more than one million extra people suffering from mental health problems would benefit from being prescribed drugs and criticised ideological reasons doctors use to avoid doing so. Getty Health news in pictures Student dies of flu after NHS advice to stay at home and avoid A&E The family of a teenager who died from flu has urged people not to delay going to A&E if they are worried about their symptoms. Melissa Whiteley, an 18-year-old engineering student from Hanford in Stoke-on-Trent, fell ill at Christmas and died in hospital a month later. Just Giving Health news in pictures Government to review thousands of harmful vaginal mesh implants The Government has pledged to review tens of thousands of cases where women have been given harmful vaginal mesh implants. Getty Health news in pictures Jeremy Hunt announces 'zero suicides ambition' for the NHS The NHS will be asked to go further to prevent the deaths of patients in its care as part of a zero suicide ambition being launched today Getty Health news in pictures Human trials start with cancer treatment that primes immune system to kill off tumours Human trials have begun with a new cancer therapy that can prime the immune system to eradicate tumours. The treatment, that works similarly to a vaccine, is a combination of two existing drugs, of which tiny amounts are injected into the solid bulk of a tumour. Nephron Health news in pictures Babies' health suffers from being born near fracking sites, finds major study Mothers living within a kilometre of a fracking site were 25 per cent more likely to have a child born at low birth weight, which increase their chances of asthma, ADHD and other issues Getty Health news in pictures NHS reviewing thousands of cervical cancer smear tests after women wrongly given all-clear Thousands of cervical cancer screening results are under review after failings at a laboratory meant some women were incorrectly given the all-clear. A number of women have already been told to contact their doctors following the identification of procedural issues in the service provided by Pathology First Laboratory. Rex Health news in pictures Potential key to halting breast cancer's spread discovered by scientists Most breast cancer patients do not die from their initial tumour, but from secondary malignant growths (metastases), where cancer cells are able to enter the blood and survive to invade new sites. Asparagine, a molecule named after asparagus where it was first identified in high quantities, has now been shown to be an essential ingredient for tumour cells to gain these migratory properties. Getty Health news in pictures NHS nursing vacancies at record high with more than 34,000 roles advertised A record number of nursing and midwifery positions are currently being advertised by the NHS, with more than 34,000 positions currently vacant, according to the latest data. Demand for nurses was 19 per cent higher between July and September 2017 than the same period two years ago. REX Health news in pictures Cannabis extract could provide new class of treatment for psychosis CBD has a broadly opposite effect to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active component in cannabis and the substance that causes paranoia and anxiety. Getty Health news in pictures Over 75,000 sign petition calling for Richard Branson's Virgin Care to hand settlement money back to NHS Mr Bransons company sued the NHS last year after it lost out on an 82m contract to provide childrens health services across Surrey, citing concerns over serious flaws in the way the contract was awarded PA Health news in pictures More than 700 fewer nurses training in England in first year after NHS bursary scrapped The numbers of people accepted to study nursing in England fell 3 per cent in 2017, while the numbers accepted in Wales and Scotland, where the bursaries were kept, increased 8.4 per cent and 8 per cent respectively Getty Health news in pictures Landmark study links Tory austerity to 120,000 deaths The paper found that there were 45,000 more deaths in the first four years of Tory-led efficiencies than would have been expected if funding had stayed at pre-election levels. On this trajectory that could rise to nearly 200,000 excess deaths by the end of 2020, even with the extra funding that has been earmarked for public sector services this year. Reuters Health news in pictures Long commutes carry health risks Hours of commuting may be mind-numbingly dull, but new research shows that it might also be having an adverse effect on both your health and performance at work. Longer commutes also appear to have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, with those commuting longer 33 per cent more likely to suffer from depression Shutterstock Health news in pictures You cannot be fit and fat It is not possible to be overweight and healthy, a major new study has concluded. The study of 3.5 million Britons found that even metabolically healthy obese people are still at a higher risk of heart disease or a stroke than those with a normal weight range Getty Health news in pictures Sleep deprivation When you feel particularly exhausted, it can definitely feel like you are also lacking in brain capacity. Now, a new study has suggested this could be because chronic sleep deprivation can actually cause the brain to eat itself Shutterstock Health news in pictures Exercise classes offering 45 minute naps launch David Lloyd Gyms have launched a new health and fitness class which is essentially a bunch of people taking a nap for 45 minutes. The fitness group was spurred to launch the napercise class after research revealed 86 per cent of parents said they were fatigued. The class is therefore predominantly aimed at parents but you actually do not have to have children to take part Getty Health news in pictures 'Fundamental right to health' to be axed after Brexit, lawyers warn Tobacco and alcohol companies could win more easily in court cases such as the recent battle over plain cigarette packaging if the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is abandoned, a barrister and public health professor have said Getty Health news in pictures 'Thousands dying' due to fear over non-existent statin side-effects A major new study into the side effects of the cholesterol-lowering medicine suggests common symptoms such as muscle pain and weakness are not caused by the drugs themselves Getty Health news in pictures Babies born to fathers aged under 25 have higher risk of autism New research has found that babies born to fathers under the age of 25 or over 51 are at higher risk of developing autism and other social disorders. The study, conducted by the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai, found that these children are actually more advanced than their peers as infants, but then fall behind by the time they hit their teenage years Getty Health news in pictures Cycling to work could halve risk of cancer and heart disease Commuters who swap their car or bus pass for a bike could cut their risk of developing heart disease and cancer by almost half, new research suggests but campaigners have warned there is still an urgent need to improve road conditions for cyclists. Cycling to work is linked to a lower risk of developing cancer by 45 per cent and cardiovascular disease by 46 per cent, according to a study of a quarter of a million people. Walking to work also brought health benefits, the University of Glasgow researchers found, but not to the same degree as cycling. Getty
We will carefully consider any representations of the companies under investigation before determining whether the law has been infringed, he said.
The findings come as after a separate investigation by the CMA investigation in December accused Actavis UK of charging excessive prices to the NHS for the tablets following a 12,000 per cent price rise over the course of several years.
Pharmaceutical firm Teva confirmed Actavis UK was the subject of "allegations of anti-competitive conduct" from the CMA.
Concordia was not immediately available for comment.
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Ted Malloch, a professor tipped to become Donald Trumps ambassador to the EU, reportedly made false statements to deceive two US banks into giving him multimillion-dollar loans, then later declared himself bankrupt.
Mr Malloch and his wife Beth falsely stated they had 36.3m in assets in order to take out the loans, according to court documents seen by the Financial Times.
When the couple filed for bankruptcy in 2013, the couple said they had just $152,000 and therefore could not repay the outstanding debt of $5.9m.
The US court ruled in favour of the banks and said that the couple had acted with the intent to deceive when making their applications.
The bank reportedly said in court documents that the couple had failed to explain satisfactorily the loss of assets or deficiency of assets. They had falsely represented . . . the nature and value of their assets and did so for the purpose of deceiving [the bank] and/or obtaining loan approval and subsequent modifications thereof.
In February, Oxford University accused Mr Malloch of falsely claiming to be a fellow at two of its colleges. Mr Mallochs autobiography also contains a number of misleading claims, including that he was called a genius by Margaret Thatcher and knighted by the Queen.
Mr Malloch also said last month that Greece is contemplating leaving the euro in favour of the US dollar.
According to the transcript of a translated interview with Greek local online news site ekathimerini.com, Mr Malloch claimed Greek economists are looking into taking on the US banknotes in a move that he said would freak out Germany.
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.
He said: I know some Greek economists who have even gone to leading think tanks in the US to discuss this topic and the question of dollarisation.
Mr Malloch, a strident Brexiteer, has indicated he is no fan of Brussels on several occasions.
In February, on BBC One's This Week, when asked why he wanted to be US ambassador to the EU, he said: "I had in a previous career a diplomatic post where I helped bring down the Soviet Union. So maybe there's another union that needs a little taming."
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The UKs top private schools have experienced a rush of applicants from the worlds richest families since the fall in sterling following last years Brexit vote.
In its annual Wealth Report, real estate consultancy group Knight Frank reported that while rich foreign families have traditionally preferred to send their children to the US for their education, the cheap pound means private education in the UK has become more competitive.
The report details the habits of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) those who have $30m (24m) or more in net assets.
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Commenting on evidence published in the report, Ed Richardson, director of education at Keystone Tutors, said that although the US, Switzerland and Australia along with a number of other countries all attract students from overseas, the UKs private boarding schools are still seen as the gold standard.
Currency, quality of life and access to the best universities are the key trends boosting demand for a British education, he added.
Ambitious families in Singapore have traditionally sent their children to schools in the US, not necessarily because they think they are better, but because of the cost.
Now, they are telling me that the fall in the value of the pound is making the UK look much better value. That sentiment will be echoed in many other places.
Pound sterling has fallen to a 31-year low following the UKs referendum vote to leave the EU last year.
Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Show all 20 1 /20 Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Singapore Singapore was the top performing country across all three subjects (maths, science and reading) in the 2015 PISA tables. The small Asian country is renowned for its high academic standards and produces excellent results, particularly in mathematics. Pupils here learn maths by what is known as the mastery method, which teaches children how to solve problems as a class and errs away from more traditional recitations of formulae. Singapore selects its teachers from the top 5 per cent of graduates, and teachers are very highly regarded as societal influencers. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Japan Japanese schools came in 2nd for Science, 5th in the world for maths and 8th for reading skills. Japan has one of the best-education populations, with zero illiteracy recorded and strong emphasis on arithmetic and geography. While children around the world typically learn between 26 and 33 letters of the alphabet, Japanese pupils will know 1,006 kanji characters by the time they leave primary school. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Estonia Dubbed the new Finland by some, Estonia has risen rapidly towards the top of the Pisa rankings despite being one of the worlds youngest countries. Estonia spends around 4 per cent of GDP on education. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Taipei Taiwan has been known as a centre for technical excellence for decades and its students perform consistently well in technology, maths and sciences. Education is compulsory from age six, and some 95 per cent of all students continue their education after age 15. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Finland Children in Finland dont start school under age seven, yet consistently produce some of the best results in the world. The countrys education system has a somewhat alternative approach to that of most OECD countries, placing emphasis on playtime and creative learning. Pupils dont sit tests until they reach 16. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Macau Most schools in Macau are private or subsidized. There are only a handful of government or state schools, which tend to teach in Portuguese or have a strong emphasis on pupils learning the language. The majority of schools are also selective grammar schools which focus heavily on languages, mathematics and sciences over vocational subjects. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Hong Kong A former UK colony, Hong Kong education has been closely modelled on the British system in the past,. Education is free and compulsory in primary and junior secondary schools. Independent schools follow the International Baccalaureate, UK or US curricula. The territory participates separately from China (Shanghai, Beijing, Jiangsu, Guangdong) in the Pisa league tables. Rex Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education South Korea South Korea has long been one of the worlds top academic achievers, but at the price of very long school days for students. Many start school by 8am, and carry on until late at night at private study clubs. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education New Zealand While the New Zealand school curriculum is not dissimilar to the UKs, children here are not required to start school until age six. The country also has eight state-funded universities offering degrees in a range of subjects. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education China Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Slovenia Slovenia scored highly in this years maths and science results. Basic education for children ages six to 15 is compulsory and free for children in Slovenia. International citizens are taught the Slovenian language at the beginning of school. Rex Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Australia Australian Pisa candidates came in 14th place for Science, 15th place for reading and 23rd place for Maths slipping down in the ranks on previous years. Australia has the third highest number of international students in the world behind the UK and US, despite having a much lower population overall. The school system is split mainly into government state-funded schools, Catholic faith schools and independent fee-paying schools. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education United Kingdom The UK jumped to 15th place for science in this years Pisa tables, up from 21st in 2012. According to the report, teachers in the UK are among the youngest across all developed countries. The total amount spent on British education exceeds that of most other participating countries and critics argue the education system should provide better results because of this. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Germany Schooling in Germany is governed by individual states, which each have their own education departments and policies. Normally, children begin primary school at age six but secondary school options vary widely. Germany increased its expenditure on educational institutions from primary to post-secondary non-tertiary levels, despite declining enrolments, and teachers have competitive salaries compared to others as a result. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Netherlands Dutch children were found to be the happiest in the world in a 2013 Unicef study. Schools typically don't give much homework until secondary level and students report little pressure and stress. Rex Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Switzerland Just five per cent of children attend private schools in Switzerland. Lessons are taught in different languages depending on the region of Switzerland, with German, French or Italian the most common languages of instruction. From secondary onwards students are separated by ability. Rex Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Ireland The majority of secondary schools in Ireland are privately owned and managed but state-funded, but there are also state comprehensives and vocational schools. The country performed especially well in Pisa reading tests - coming in fifth place globally. Rex Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Belgium Belgian schools came in 15th place for science in this years Pisa table. Schools here are free, and regulated and financed by three separate communities Flemish, French and German-speaking. Boys in Belgium perform significantly better than girls in school according the latest OECD reports. Rex Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Vietnam Education in Vietnam is state run system of public and private schools. The country took part in the Pisa tests for the first time in 2012 and scored higher in reading, maths and science than the UK and US. This is believed to be partly a result of high spending levels on education and hardworking culture instilled in children from a young age. Getty Pisa rankings 2015: The best countries in the world for education Canada Education is compulsory up the age of 16 in most Canadian provinces, apart from Manitoba, Ontario and New Brunswick where pupils must stay on until 18 or when high school diploma is achieved. The education system varies between French and English-speaking provinces. Rex
This week economists warned the pound would stay at record lows even after Article 50 is triggered which the Prime Minister said she intends to do later this month to begin formal exit proceedings.
Chinese students make up the highest proportion of overseas pupils by far, with the number of Chinese pupils in UK private schools increasing by more than 190 per cent in the past ten years.
Its not just about the teaching, its about quality of life and the extent of extra-curricular activities available, said Mr Richardson.
Certainly in China there is a feeling that if youre going to spend money on Western luxuries it is better to buy them in the West. More credit will be given to Harrow itself than Harrow Beijing.
Education secretary Betsy DeVos wants to 'advance God's kingdom' through US school system
Middle Eastern families also value the fact that British schools provide access to the best universities in both the UK and the US, he added.
There is a feeling that schools in the US are really only focused on getting people into US universities, Mr Richardson said.
Many top performing public and independent schools run recruitment campaigns in countries with growing numbers of affluent middle-class families such as China and Hong Kong.
Figures published by the Independent School Council last year suggested five per cent of pupil come from abroad* a number that is expected to rise over the next few years.
Commenting within the Knight Frank report, William Petty, a director of Bonas MacFarlane, said one of the first questions many overseas parents asked schools was how many people from their own country were already in attendance.
While most schools try to keep the level of overseas students at under 20 per cent, he said, they are also keen to ensure a diverse mix.
In a world where business is becoming increasingly global, having your children make friends with people from lots of different nationalities is considered very attractive, he added.
*This article has been corrected after previously stating that "one new pupil in every five now comes from abroad".
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Arnold Schwarzenegger has quit the Celebrity Apprentice citing Donald Trump as part of the reason why.
The former Governor of California has said his first season will be his last and blamed the President for the shows poor ratings.
He claimed people were choosing to boycott the show due to its connections with Mr Trump and said he doesnt want to do it again.
Even if asked, I would decline, Schwarzenegger told Empire magazine. "I learned a lot, I had a great time, it was a really great opportunity. But under the circumstances, I dont want to do it again.
With Trump being involved in the show people have a bad taste and dont want to participate as a spectator or sponsor or in any other way support the show.
Its a very divisive period right now and I think the show got caught up in all that division," he added.
He also blamed Mr Trump for the shows poor performance.
Its not about the show. Because everyone I ran into came up to me and said I love the showbut I turned it off as I read Trumps name Im out of there, Schwarzenegger said.
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When people found out that Trump was still involved as executive producer and was still receiving money from the show, then half the people [started] boycotting it."
Schwarzenegger has since clarified his comments in a statement via Variety, stating: I loved every second of working with NBC and Mark Burnett. Everyone - from the celebrities to the crew to the marketing department - was a straight 10, and I would absolutely work with all of them again on a show that doesnt have this baggage."
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The pair have clashed over the show in recent months and Mr Trump criticised the Terminator actor for his performance as the host of the Celebrity Apprentice.
Wow, the ratings are in and Arnold Schwarzenegger got swamped (or destroyed) by comparison to the ratings machine, DJT, Mr Trump wrote.
So much for being a movie star-and that was season 1 compared to season 14. Now compare him to my season 1. But who cares, he supported Kasich & Hillary.
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
Schwarzenegger responded to the tweets by posting a video of himself quoting Abraham Lincolns 1861 inaugural address.
I wish you the best of luck and I hope you'll work for ALL of the American people as aggressively as you worked for your ratings, Schwarzenegger tweeted.
Please study this quote from Lincoln's inaugural, @realDonaldTrump. It inspired me every day I was Governor, and I hope it inspires you.
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Senior detectives failed to properly investigate the case of a toddler who may have been sexually abused before she died, a police watchdog has concluded.
Poppi Worthington was 13 months old when she died suddenly and unexpectedly in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, in December 2012.
A family court judge subsequently ruled that her father, Paul Worthington, had probably sexually assaulted her. Mr Worthington, however, has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and has never been charged with any offence.
Now, in a report said to have left Poppis mother profoundly distressed, the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has concluded that senior detectives did not adequately investigate whether Poppi had been abused, despite concerns being raised from the moment she died.
It is clear from the evidence presented, said IPCC commissioner Carl Gumsley, that Cumbria Constabularys original inquiry was not fit for purpose.
The hospital doctor who pronounced Poppi dead on the morning of 12 December 2012 mentioned anal injuries which he stated could not rule out something having been inserted.
At a post-mortem five days later, Home Office pathologist Dr Alison Armour raised concerns that Poppis injuries may have been caused by sexual abuse although another pathologist said they could have been consistent with constipation.
The IPCC accepted that detectives were hampered by a six-month delay in receiving a full post-mortem report, but concluded there was enough evidence to have justified an arrest either on the day of Poppis death or shortly after the post-mortem.
In a report, published on Thursday, the IPCCs lead investigator Tim Kimber stated: Not only were there suspicious circumstances, there was also a suspect on day one.
Despite the level of suspicion, and there being a suspect, a crime was not recorded until 28 August 2013, which is the day [the father] was arrested.
He said there were concerns that Poppis father was the last person in her care before her death, and that protecting the girls siblings would have satisfied the necessity grounds for arrest.
The IPCC also found evidence that the family home on the morning of the death was not adequately preserved and searched, resulting in a nappy that Poppi had been wearing being lost as potential crucial evidence.
The IPCC said the post-mortem, at which the cause of death was unascertained, was the pivotal point of the inquiry. That was when the then lead officer Detective Inspector Amanda Sadler considered the conflicting pathologists opinions about possible abuse or constipation.
The IPCC said it was arguable that the result of Ms Sadler not seeking clarification while she was in the room with the two pathologists led to unclear lines of inquiry.
When Detective Superintendent Mike Forrester subsequently took on the investigation, he was effectively faced with two possibilities, one of them being the possibility of sex abuse.
But, the IPCC report stated: There is substantial evidence upon which it could be concluded that these two lines of inquiry were not pursued equally and appropriately and that there was more focus on establishing a natural cause of death.
Then in March 2014, in a civil fact-finding judgement, High Court family judge Justice Peter Jackson concluded on the balance of probabilities which is the civil, but not the criminal standard of proof that the 13-month-old had been sexually assaulted by her father.
The judge stated: The father is not called upon to prove anything [but] the sequence of events that the father describes is unconvincing.
He reaffirmed his conclusion in January 2016, despite Mr Worthington continuing to protest his innocence and calling three medical experts who said evidence to support a finding of abuse was lacking.
By this point, though, Cumbria Police had announced in March 2015 that Mr Worthington would not face any criminal proceedings. In July 2016, the Crown Prosecution Service also said there was insufficient evidence to charge Mr Worthington.
The IPCC report concluded: There is substantial evidence available to support the contention that this case has still not reached a resolution more than two years on from the death of Poppi because of the unstructured and disorganised approach taken by Det Supt Forrester and DI Sadler, coupled with the argument that prior to the pathologist report being received they did not conduct a criminal investigation despite there being significant suspicious circumstances from the outset.
Mr Kimber concluded that both Mr Forrester and Ms Sadler had cases to answer for gross misconduct.
Mr Forrester retired so no further action could be taken.
In November 2015 he told the BBC: I'm not saying we get it right all the time but none of us on this case have done anything intentionally wrong.
We havent done anything dishonest. Weve done the best we can with the information we had [and] with the resources we had at the time.
Ms Sadler was subjected to a disciplinary hearing last year where gross incompetency was proven and she was demoted in rank. She too has since retired from the force.
Fiona McGhie, an expert civil liberties lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, speaking on behalf of Poppis mother who cannot be named for legal reasons said: Poppis mother is understandably deeply concerned by the findings of the IPCC.
She has anxiously awaited answers as to what happened to Poppi on that fateful day.
To learn that the actions of senior investigators within Cumbria Constabulary may have contributed to the agonising delays she has endured has left her deeply and profoundly disappointed and distressed.
She hopes that the long-delayed inquest, now scheduled for May this year, will give her the answers she deserves and allow her to access justice so Poppi can be at peace.
Responding to the IPCC report, Jerry Graham, the Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary, said: I unreservedly accept the criticisms contained within the report.
I am absolutely clear that the Constabulary's initial investigation fell well short of the standard that could, and should, have been expected.
I profoundly regret that we let Poppi and her family down and I offer a heartfelt apology for this.
Cumbria Constabulary became aware of the deficiencies in the initial investigation in 2014.
The public can be reassured that we have used the intervening time to ensure that our officers and staff are properly trained and equipped to undertake serious and complex investigations of this type when called upon to do so.
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Actress Emma Thompson has written a letter to MPs expressing her disappointment at the shockingly low number of refugee children the UK has taken from Europe under the Dubs amendment, and urging them to take action.
In a highly personal message, the Oscar winner describes the joys of bringing up her adopted son, Tindyebwa Agaba, who she took in as a child refugee 14 years ago. She writes that he has brought nothing but joy and the deepest possible rewards to her family, and urges many more like him be helped in this way.
But Thompson warns that following the Government's decision to close the Dubs amendment one of the few legal passages for unaccompanied minors to the UK an increasing number of these children are instead putting themselves at risk as they embark on reaching the country through illegal routes.
Describing her experience raising Tindyebwa, the Love Actually star writes: Fourteen years ago I met one of these children at the Refugee Council. He was a traumatised 16-year old Rwandan refugee who had seen untold suffering as a child soldier and who only needed help and support from a loving group of people to flourish into the extraordinary, empathic and talented member of our family he is today.
Our family have experienced nothing but joy and reaped the deepest possible rewards from witnessing the development and happiness of the refugee who became our brave and kind son. Those we choose to help often end up helping us in ways we cannot imagine.
I am certain there are many like him out there that we can help to become part of other family or community groups where they could grow into active and fulfilled citizens with much to offer.
Thompson, who has long been an advocate for helping unaccompanied minors arriving in Europe, urges MPs in the letter to consider an amendment to the Childrens Bill being put forward for parliamentary consideration next week, which has the aim of providing a passage for child refugees to reach the UK.
The amendment, which is being put forward in Parliament by Conservative MP Heidi Allen on 7 March, will ask that local authorities identify their capacity to resettle unaccompanied refugee children and to report this to the Secretary of State annually.
In the letter, Thompson rejects claims made by Home Secretary Amber Rudd that the Dubs amendment acted as a pull for more unaccompanied refugee children to make dangerous journeys to Calais, instead turning it on its head to say the opposite is true.
Children do not fling themselves into the dangerous unknown for anything but the most severe reasons of survival, Thompson says.
Hundreds of teenagers, some as young as 13, are now attempting to survive in the freezing snows of Northern France.
"Since the eviction of the Calais camp, they are still trying to reach the UK, putting their lives in the hands of people smugglers, climbing into refrigerated lorries because without safe and legal routes, they feel that this is their only option.
They deserve our help and above all, our compassion. How can we turn our backs on them simply because of the largely unsubstantiated fear that others might come?
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
Finishing her letter, Thompson makes an appeal to MPs to use their position to provide safety for more children, saying: "Members of Parliament, you are in the position to save many more than 350 of these children and to put them on a road to a brighter future."
Ahead of the parliamentary vote, Josie Naughton of Help Refugees told The Independent: "The non binding vote in parliament last week (254-1) in favour of child refugees highlighted MPs coming together across party lines to support bringing vulnerable unaccompanied minors to the UK.
"This is a humanitarian issue and not a political one. We hope the amendment vote next week reflects that."
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A former policy aide to Gordon Brown has lost a landmark divorce case, in the latest stage of proceedings which have taken in three countries over five years.
A judge in London ruled yesterday that a divorce granted to the British woman in the UK was not valid and instead recognised a divorce made four years earlier in Dubai.
Afsana Lachaux claimed she had been attacked, degraded, stalked and spied on by her husband, French aerospace engineer Bruno Lachaux.
She claimed Mr Lachaux had sought a divorce and custody of their six-year-old son Louis under sharia law in the United Arab Emirates.
However, at the High Court in London, Mr Justice Mostyn dismissed Mrs Lachauxs case and said she had lied during a four-day hearing. He found the Dubai divorce was valid and dismissed Mrs Lachauxs claims of coercion, saying she gave as good as she got.
The judge also found that Mr Lachaux had lied and that he had snooped in order to access Mrs Lachauxs emails and texts but said he preferred his account of a confrontation at the family home.
Louis is now in his fathers custody in Dubai and his mother has been granted limited contact.
The judge warned Mr Lachaux he could still order him to bring the boy to the UK if Mrs Lachaux was cut out of his life and urged the couple to set aside their differences. The pair met in India in 2008 and married two years later at a ceremony in London but relations quickly soured. Mrs Lachaux claimed she was being controlled by her spouse but the judge said: The mother was a free spirit, doing exactly what she wanted, where she wanted, with whom she wanted.
It is a far cry from the case of grinding depression and coercive control painted in her carefully prepared witness statements.
He also found that Mrs Lachaux had attempted to sabotage her husbands job, saying: It is plain to me that the mothers strategy was to obtain the dismissal of the father so that he would be deported. The judge found that both parties had invaded each others privacy during the dispute.
He concluded both parties have told me lies from the witness box, although the mothers lies have been more extensive than those of the father.
The judge ruled that Louis was lawfully removed from Mrs Lachaux following his disappearance for 19 months. He added that her suspended sentence for kidnapping was lenient in the circumstances and also concluded that he did not accept Mrs Lachaux was a victim of abuse, threats and violence from the father.
He went on: I do not accept that she was fearful of him. I do not accept that her complaints were not investigated or taken seriously by the police and the court. I do not accept that she was mistreated by the police.
I do not accept that she was trapped in Dubai as a result of travel bans or confiscation of her passport. I do not accept that she did not have notice of the divorce proceedings or the opportunity to participate in them.
I do not accept that the proceedings were unfair. The mother was not divorced on traditional Islamic grounds and sharia judges did not steal her son.
He said it was true Mrs Lachaux has been denied access to her son.
The father failed to promote the relationship between mother and Louis, added the judge. However, that failure must be set against the mothers conduct.
I have made strong findings against both parties. They should act as a form of closure between them.
I reiterate that Louis wellbeing will be seriously compromised if he does not have a meaningful relationship with each of his parents.
The judge ruled that the Dubai divorce was valid and a subsequent English divorce was invalid.
A spokesman for Mrs Lachaux said: Although she is disappointed with the judgment she is pleased that Mr Justice Mostyn recognised it is vitally important for Louis to have a relationship with both parents as he grows up.
Mr Lachaux said the judgment had vindicated him and he was looking forward to supporting his son in re-building the boys relationship with his mother.
He also referred to ongoing libel claims he has brought against various publishers, including The Independent, who reported Mrs Lachauxs allegations. He said he intends to continue these actions.
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A former alcoholic and drug addict was buried at a parish church in Belfast on Wednesdayexcept he is still alive and is broadcasting online from beyond the grave.
John Edwards, 72, is performing the stunt as part of his Walking Free project, which gives support to people suffering addiction or suicidal thoughts. He is spending three days underground at Willowfield parish church to promote the cause, and will take calls throughout.
"We are trying to get across the message that you need not be in a coffin prematurely, there is help there and you can overcome addiction and illness. I was locked into addiction for 25 years," he told the Belfast Telegraph.
UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 5 November 2022 Demonstrators with placards calling for a General Election march near the Houses of Parliament AFP via Getty Images 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 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male 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news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images
Round-the-clock security is in place for Mr Edwards, who admitted being buried alive, even voluntarily, was "very freaky".
Food, air and water are supplied by tubes leading down from the surface and Mr Edwards' coffin is better appointed than most, featuring a small light, a caravan toilet and his hot water bottle.
It is the second time he has been buried alive, the Telegraph reported, the first stunt having taken place in Halifax last year.
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Power-sharing in Northern Ireland has been plunged into uncertainty after Sinn Fein secured its strongest ever electoral performance after they pulled out of the devolved parliament at Stormont.
The election was called in a bid to break a stalemate between Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) after they refused to share power. Yet rather than returning resolving the impasse, the electorate appears to have produced even starker division, raising concerns that direct rule of Northern Ireland from London may now be inevitable.
Sinn Fein has beaten even the most optimistic polling predictions behind the DUP by only 1,168 first-preference votes. The DUP came into the election with 10 more seats, but finished the count with only one more, 28 to 27. The parties have until later this month to agree to re-enter power-sharing, otherwise direct rule will have to be imposed from London.
Follow our live blog of the election results here.
Recommended Polls close in Northern Ireland assembly elections
The election was sparked after Sinn Fein refused to share power with their counterparts in the DUP, causing Stormont to collapse after a decade of functioning devolution.
Emergency elections were called in the hope of electing a fresh government that would agree to share power, but Sinn Fein and the DUP have been returned as the leading nationalist and unionist parties respectively, pushing power-sharing into deep uncertainty.
The DUP emerged from the vote count with 28 seats, Sinn Fein had 27, SDLP 12, the UUP 10, the Alliance party eight, the Greens two, People Before Profit one, the Traditional Unionist Voice one and one independent unionist.
Sinn Fein has said it will not work with the DUP while their leader Arlene Foster remains in charge and she continues to refuse to resign, making a period of direct rule all but inevitable bar a last-minute change of heart or strategy.
Speaking to The Independent following the result, Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams said he hoped the DUP had now learnt their lesson that power-sharing in Northern Ireland is not guaranteed but relies on Sinn Fein cooperation.
(Getty Images (Getty Images)
He said: We couldnt take a position in that office without the consent of the other partner, and they cant take the position without our consent. We hope theyve learnt that lesson.
Mr Adams reiterated calls for DUP leader Arlene Foster to step aside pending an independent inquiry into the cash for ash affair: Its a very serious allegation, half a billion pounds of taxpayers money as a result of corruption or fraud. It needs to be investigated, and while thats going on, she needs to step to one side.
He added that the ball was now in the DUPs court whether to keep Ms Foster as leader and said he and Sinn Fein figures had extended an invitation for the two parties to meet for negotiations to determine whether they would return to power-sharing.
The republican party walked away from power-sharing in January in protest at how the DUP had handled allegations of a major financial scandal. The Renewable Heat Incentive, known locally as the cash for ash scandal, was a renewable energy scheme designed to encourage businesses to use environmentally friendly heat sources. However, the scheme appears to have been badly mismanaged and in fact paid companies money to burn fuel pointlessly.
The botched scheme is estimated to have cost the Northern Irish taxpayer 480m. Ms Foster was the minister in charge of the scheme at the time and has denied all wrongdoing. But she has refused to step aside as DUP leader or Northern Ireland First Minister while an independent inquiry ascertains responsibility, prompting Sinn Fein to pull out of power-sharing, citing concerns about DUP arrogance.
Northern Ireland: Snap election announced for Stormont Assembly
However, first-preference votes highlighted a very strong showing for Sinn Fein, at the expense of more moderate nationalist party the Social Democratic and Labour Party.
The DUP appears to have suffered palpable but not excessive losses at the polls after public outcry over the cash for ash scandal, with candidates seeing considerable vote drops but still meeting quotas and managing to be elected in key areas.
Northern Ireland uses an electoral system of single transferable vote, which means that votes are transferred between candidates until they reach a stipulated quota for election. The final result is therefore not expected to be calculated until Saturday afternoon.
A period of intense negotiations is now set to begin to determine whether the DUP and Sinn Fein will agree to return to power-sharing or if direct rule now must be imposed, resulting in Westminster running Northern Ireland directly from London over an indefinite period.
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Peers say Theresa May is heading for another thumping Brexit defeat in the House of Lords, to prevent her crashing Britain out of the EU with no deal.
Both Labour and the Liberal Democrats believe they comfortably have the numbers to win a crunch vote next Tuesday to ensure Parliament has a meaningful vote on the Prime Ministers exit terms.
Crucially, a new amendment to the Article 50 bill would bind Ms May to obtain Parliaments approval to leave the EU without an agreement as to the applicable terms.
It would prevent her unilaterally carrying out her threat to walk away if EU leaders offer only a bad deal leaving Britain out of the EU on punishing World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules.
The determination of peers has been bolstered by the commanding majority that defeated the Government this week over the future rights of EU citizens in the UK.
A Labour source in the Lords told The Independent: Given the scale of the previous defeat and the building up of a cross party campaign on this issue we are again likely to see the government defeated handsomely'.
And Tim Farron, the Liberal Democrat leader, said, emphatically: The Government will be defeated again.
Theresa May must accept the strength of feeling both in the Lords and across the country. She has already faced a humiliating defeat on the Brexit bill and will face more if she refuses to make concessions.
The amendment has been tabled by Labour, with support from the Lib Dems and two prominent crossbench or independent peers, raising the likelihood it will be passed.
The likelihood of Britain going over the cliff-edge appears to be growing, after Brexit Secretary David Davis told Cabinet colleagues this week to prepare for it although he claimed it was still an unlikely scenario.
WTO rules would mean hefty export tariffs on, for example, dairy products (36 per cent), cars (ten per cent), food and drink (20 per cent) and clothing and textiles (10-20 per cent).
But this ultimate hard Brexit could also see billions of pounds having to be spent on new IT systems for customs declarations, on holding facilities at big ports and on a new immigration system to process applications for work permits.
The British Chambers of Commerce has called for Brexit to be delayed if necessary, to sort out a trade deal and the CBI has branded the Prime Minister not only wrong but irresponsible to threaten to walk away.
Defeat next week would see growing pressure on Remain-backing Conservative MPs to join forces with the opposition parties to prevent the amendment being thrown out in the Commons.
Just seven rebelled when the controversy was voted upon last month but others were angry at alleged dirty-dealing by Downing Street on the exact nature of the meaningful vote.
No 10 promised the vote would take place before any deal reaches the European Parliament, but was unclear if it would take place if there were no deal and the assurances were verbal only.
On that occasion, Ms May won with a majority of 33, suggesting at least 25 Tory rebels will be needed when the clash returns to the Commons, probably on 13 March.
The Lib Dems say they are preparing for an all-night stand-off the week after next, when MPs and peers will also go into battle over EU citizens rights.
If that means pizza and food delivery at 3am then so be it. We have plans in place for sleeping bags and beds, a party source said.
Meanwhile, Labour believes the Government will give way on a second amendment up for debate next week requiring quarterly updates on the Brexit negotiations.
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The Prime Ministers Industrial Strategy will not deliver on its promise of an economy that works for all without more co-ordination across government departments, according to a new report by MPs.
The report, published by the Business, Enterprise and Industrial Strategy Select Committee, also warns that a 'lack of ambition' coul prevent the Industrial Strategy from delivering on the promise to get the "whole economy firing."
It concludes that the much-vaunted Industrial Strategy Green Paper is in fact very similar to the 2015 Productivity Plan, aimed at improving the UK's appalling performance in national productivity league tables, and does not represent a new, meaningful, cross-departmental strategy.
"After six months in development we expected more than a disappointing combination of re-announcements, continuations of existing policy, and vague aspirations," the report said.
The committee also warned that skilled workers could continue to need to be brought in from abroad after Britain has left the EU.
"In the context of negotiations over free movement as part of withdrawal from the EU, Government must ensure that businesses continue to be able to access the skills they need," it said.
The committee said Ms May's promise to build an economy that "works for everyone", appeared at first to represent a "significant shift", and that the government was prepared to sacrifice some short-term economic growth for "more evenly distributed and resilient growth".
But the plans do not match the rhetoric.
"It provides a long list of policy interventions but little by way of ground rules to provide a framework for future decision-making which, we would argue, should be the core of any long-term strategy," it said.
"While the Prime Minister's rhetoric suggests an intention to approach this with a welcome and renewed vigour, the incremental proposals outlined in the green paper leave us sceptical about whether the fresh thinking or political will is present across Government to deliver the Prime Minister's objectives."
Committee chairman Iain Wright said: "As a committee, we are concerned that with Government announcements the approach seems to be 'business as usual' and a silo-based approach in Whitehall which will not achieve the step change the Prime Minister aspires to."
Democratic Unionist Party leader Arlene Foster arrives to cast her vote at a polling station in Brookeborough, Northern Ireland (AP)
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Ballot counting is taking place across Northern Ireland today, to ascertain the result of an emergency election called in a bid to save power-sharing in the region.
A higher than average turn-out is understood to have cast their ballots in the crucial vote for the Northern Ireland election.
First results are expected late this afternoon.
Emergency elections called after Sinn Fein pulled out of power-sharing in January
Vote attempts to elect fresh government willing to return to power-sharing and restore devolution
If unsuccessful, Northern Ireland faces being run directly from London for the first time in a decade
Please wait a moment for the live blog to load
Voting takes place using a Proportional Representation system of Single Transferable Vote. This means that rather than marking ballot papers with an 'x' by the name of a preferred candidate, voters in Northern Ireland assign preferences by ranking candidates 1, 2, 3 etc. Vote counting therefore takes longer than in Westminster elections.
The election was sparked by nationalist party Sinn Fein's decision to pull out of power-sharing at Stormont. They were protesting their unionist counterpart's behaviour in how they handled allegations of a major financial scandal.
The Renewable Heat Incentive scheme, presided over by Democratic Unionist Party leader Arlene Foster, appears to have cost the taxpayer some 480 million due to gross mismanagement. She strongly denies any wrong doing. After she refused to step down, Sinn Fein resigned from power-sharing, meaning the DUP also lost their positions.
The elections are an attempt to elect a fresh government which will be willing to resurrect power-sharing. If this does not happen, Northern Ireland may have to be ruled directly from London in lieu of devolution.
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Barack Obama has been named the forthcoming recipient of the coveted John F Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.
The 44th US President will follow in the footsteps of George HW Bush, black civil rights leader John Lewis and, the 2016 honouree, Connecticut governor Dan Malloy.
Mr Kennedy's family say Mr Obama will be honoured because of his Obamacare expansion and climate change leadership - two policies Donald Trump has lambasted and is expected to change - and his diplomatic relations with Cuba.
Humbled to be recognised by a family with a legacy of service, said Mr Obama.
Mr Kennedys daughter Caroline Kennedy and her son Jack Schlossberg will hand over the trophy, which is a sterling silver lantern designed by Ms Kennedys husband, on 7 May at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.
"President Kennedy called on a new generation of Americans to give their talents to the service of the country," said Ms Kennedy in a statement.
Donald Trump blames Obama for 'some leaks'
"With exceptional dignity and courage, President Obama has carried that torch into our own time, providing young people of all backgrounds with an example they can emulate in their own lives."
The award is presented annually by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation to public servants who have made courageous decisions of conscience without regard for personal or professional consequences.
It is named after Mr Kennedy's 1957 Pulitzer Prize-winning book Profiles in Courage.
The book tells the stories of eight US senators who risked their careers by taking principled stands for unpopular positions.
"Faced with unrelenting political opposition, President Obama has embodied the definition of courage that my grandfather cites in the opening lines of Profiles in Courage: grace under pressure," said Mr Schlossberg.
"Throughout his two terms in office, he represented all Americans with decency, integrity, and an unshakeable commitment to the greater good."
The foundation also said Mr Obama was being recognised for enduring commitment to democratic ideals and elevating the standard of political courage in a new century.
Last year's recipient, Mr Malloy, said: "From expanding access to affordable healthcare for millions of people, to reforming our criminal justice system, to restoring diplomatic ties with Cuba, to efforts to combat global warming - our nation and the world are forever changed for the better because of his work."
The award has been given out annually since 1990.
It sometimes awards groups of people, such as the public servants of September 11 and the people of Egypt amid the Arab Spring.
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Breitbarts merchandise reflects its style of journalism. From T-shirts telling migrants to get in line to hefty silver belt buckles which say Unapologetically American to beer holders which declare Breitbart border control, the far-right news sites burgeoning merchandise collection is as inflammatory in tone as its headlines.
For this reason, Shopify, a Canadian e-commerce platform which hosts Breitbart News shop on their platform, is coming under strain from its employees and campaigners.
Roughly two dozen protesters gathered outside Shopifys headquarters in Ottawa on Thursday to deliver a petition with almost 200,000 signatures. Presenting the tech company with an open letter, SumOfUs, a consumer-watchdog organisation leading the campaign, accused the tech company of bankrolling hate speech.
Shopify is literally profiting off the merchandise sold in Breitbart's store, and thus profiting off Breitbart's message, Emma Pullman, lead campaign strategist of SumOfUs, told The Independent.
It has a simple choice to make: be complicit in white supremacy or hate, or not. Right now it's choosing to be complicit.
Breitbart News, the most widely-read Conservative site in the US, was founded by conservative commentator Andrew Breitbart in 2007 and was later expanded by senior Trump aide Steve Bannon.
The chief strategist, who is a former executive chairman of the site, declared the publication "the platform for the alt-right after taking the reins around four years ago and transforming the agenda from ultra-conservatism to anti-establishment, anti-immigrant, nationalist and overtly pro-Trump during the presidential election.
Breitbart is a platform for white nationalists who are trying to rebrand themselves as the alt-right, and has ambitions to export this hateful rhetoric around the world, Ms Pullman said. This rhetoric denigrates women, trans people, people of colour, refugees and immigrants.
Shopify CEO, Tobias Lutke, has pushed back at pressure for the company to pull its links with Breitbart. Writing in a Medium post last month, Lutke said that while he does not support the opinions espoused by the site, he believes in protecting their right to free speech.
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 dont like Breitbart, but products are speech and we are pro free speech, he said. This means protecting the right of organisations to use our platform even if they are unpopular or if we disagree with their premise, as long as they are within the law. That being said, if Breitbart calls us tomorrow and tells us that they are going to switch to another platform, we would be delighted.
Lutke said he had received more than 10,000 emails, tweets and messages urging him to stop letting Breitbart sell merchandise via its platform. The Delete Shopify hashtag has gained increasing traction on Twitter in recent weeks as opposition to the partnership has mounted.
According to SumOfUs open letter, Breitbart is using its merchandise to fund its global expansion in the lead up to pivotal 2017 European elections. The controversial news site has been planning its European expansion for a while and hopes to set up outlets in France and Germany, where far-right parties are growing.
SumOfUs said 19,000 of the signatories on the petition were customers, while 790 were shareholders, and just over 100 were employees. However, the numbers are yet to be confirmed.
I'm impressed that at a company of Shopify's size, 100 signed this petition. That's considerable and should be a big flag for the company, Ms Pullman said.
There have been reports of internal conflict within Shopify, which has over 1,900 employees, as some staff are said to be upset about the Breitbart partnership.
I've actually spoken to two former Shopify employees who have painted a picture of quite significant internal struggle over Shopify's refusal to ditch Breitbart, an unnamed source said.
Critics argue the companys decision to host the news site is at odds with its ethos. Several of the companys executives have proudly applauded their immigrant roots and its executives openly condemned President Donald Trumps hard-line immigration ban.
Shopify supports the rights of citizens to engage in free speech and peaceful protest, a spokesperson for the company told The Independent.
Shopify is a platform that provides software to help businesses sell their products. The use of our platform by merchants is not an endorsement. Shopify does not endorse, fund or advertise with Breitbart.
Breitbart, which has mounting access to the White House, was dubbed Trumpbart before Mr Trump entered the White House. The President gave numerous interviews to the site in the build-up to the election, boosting its traffic to a 124 per cent spike in 2016.
Comment pieces published on the site include Political Correctness Protects Muslim Rape Culture and Birth Control Makes Women Unattractive and Crazy.
Donald Trump with Steve Bannon, former executive of Breitbart News and the President's chief strategist (Reuters)
Hundreds of advertisers have cut their links with the ultra-conservative site in recent weeks. According to Ms Pullman, in just a few months 1,300 companies and organisations have blacklisted Breitbart.
According to Sleeping Giants, the group behind the grassroots campaign, Audi, Visa, T-Mobile and Lufthansa have joined the growing list of companies to boycott the site. Campaigners have urged people on Twitter to oust the companies who advertise on the site by sharing screenshots of Breitbart ads.
Fox News reported the mounting boycott campaign is having a detrimental impact on Breitbarts revenues, with advertising dollars shrinking significantly".
A representative for Breitbart did not immediately respond to request for comment.
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Donald Trumps election victory is driving domestic terrorism in the US that is expected to continue amid anger over issues including gun control and abortion, officials have warned.
A field report by the Department of Homeland Securitys (DHS) intelligence branch and analysts in North Carolina found that negative adverts and political rhetoric during the campaign contributed to the incitement of violent and criminal incidents.
The unclassified report, obtained by The Intercept and seen by The Independent, listed events including post-election rioting in Portland and vandalism in Washington on inauguration day.
Windows smashed as protests turn violent in Washington ahead of Trump inauguration
DHS assesses that anger over the results of the 2016 Presidential election continues to be a driver of domestic terrorist violence throughout the United States, it said.
While criticism and dissenting views of the government is protected activity, some individuals have engaged in violent or unlawful action to express these views.
Incidents highlighted in North Carolina included an arson attack on a Republican campaign office in Hillsborough, the firing of a BB gun at another headquarters and graffiti reading Nazi Republicans leave town or else.
A man was arrested on federal terrorism charges for allegedly phoning a Republican Party office in Henderson County with a bomb threat, which sparked a security lockdown.
The report did not list locally reported incidents targeting a Democratic office in Carrboro, which was tagged with the words death to capitalism, or the appearance of a message reading Black Lives Dont Matter and neither does your votes on a wall in Durham.
Analysts said that although the election was considered the main driver of violence, they could not discount the possibility of a variety of political targets being affected throughout 2017.
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
We assess there may be other factors or occurrences that could foment further criminal acts and violence against political entities, the report warned, listing factors including legislation on abortion rights, LGBT rights, environmental concerns, gun control and Obamacare, as well as negative publicity surrounding voting registration in North Carolina during the presidential election.
The US Code of Federal Regulations defines terrorism as the unlawful use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.
Mr Trump has not used the term to refer to his opponents while hitting out at demonstrations, accusing participants of being professional anarchists, thugs and paid protesters.
After millions of people joined the worldwide Womens March in protests stretching from Washington to Sydney, the President jibed: Was under the impression that we just had an electioncelebs hurt cause badly.
He later backtracked, tweeting: Peaceful protests are a hallmark of our democracy. Even if I dont always agree, I recognise the rights of people to express their views.
Several demonstrations in the wake of his election victory have turned violent, with participants blaming a minority of black bloc activists for vandalism and police making several arrests.
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Donald Trump has branded the campaign pressuring Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign a total witch hunt.
The US President, in a series of four tweets, also said his fellow Republican did not say anything wrong but could have stated his response more accurately.
Mr Sessions told his Senate confirmation hearing he did not have communications with the Russians despite two conversations with ambassador Sergei Kislyak last year.
Recommended Jeff Sessions steps aside from all future Russia investigations
It came as George Bushs ethics lawyer has suggested Mr Sessions should be jailed and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is calling for a perjury investigation.
Jeff Sessions is an honest man, wrote Mr Trump at around 9.30pm Washington DC time on Thursday.
He did not say anything wrong. He could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not intentional.
This whole narrative is a way of saving face for Democrats losing an election that everyone thought they were supposed to win. The Democrats are overplaying their hand.
They lost the election, and now they have lost their grip on reality. The real story is all of the illegal leaks of classified and other information. It is a total witch hunt!
The billionaire leader of the free world has previously said leaks from his administration about ties to Russia are real but that the news is fake.
A spokesman for Mr Sessions, who was an early champion of Mr Trump during his wildcard bid for the White House, confirmed Mr Sessions had two meetings with Mr Kislyak following a Washington Post article.
Jeff Sessions says under oath that he has not had any contact with Russia
But during his confirmation hearing, to replace acting Attorney General Sally Yates, the 76-year-old said: I didnt have, did not have communications with the Russians, and Im unable to comment on it.
House of Representatives Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi has said he lied under oath and must resign.
Richard Painter, who was chief White House ethics lawyer under Mr Bushs administration between 2005 and 2007, has published a stream of incendiary tweets about Mr Sessions.
Misleading the Senate in sworn testimony about one own (sic) own contacts with the Russians is a good way to go to jail, wrote the lawyer, who is now a professor at the University of Minnesota.
ACLU executive director Anthony Romero also said yesterday: The American people deserve a full investigation into whether Sessions perjured himself and if he is indeed fit to serve as our nations highest law enforcement official.
No one is above the law, certainly not those sworn to uphold it.
Mr Sessions has since said he will completely step away from the FBI investigation into Russias links to the election.
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The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) could face cuts of up to 70 per cent to its climate change programmes under a new White House proposal.
President Donald Trump has long made clear his intention to reverse his predecessor Barack Obama's green legacy, however he also pledged that any changes would not jeopardise America's water and air quality.
The 23-page budget proposal for 2018 aims to slice the environmental regulator's overall budget by 25 per cent to $6.1 billion (5bn) and staffing by 20 per cent to 12,400 as part of a broader effort to fund increased military spending.
It would also cut deeply into programmes like climate protection, environmental justice and enforcement.
The Washington Post was first to report cuts to staffing and budget, however a source disclosed new details to Reuters on the potential impact of cuts on EPA programmes, including to grants that support American Indian tribes and energy efficiency initiatives.
The proposal would cut state grants for lead cleanup by 30 per cent to $9.8 million (7.9m).
It would also see grants to help native tribes combat pollution reduced by 30 per cent to $45.8 million (37m).
An EPA climate protection programme on cutting emissions of greenhouse gases like methane that contribute to global warming would be cut by 70 per cent to $29 million (23.6m).
The EPA announced it is withdrawing an Obama-era request that oil and natural gas companies provide information on methane emissions at oil and gas operations on Thursday.
EPA head Scott Pruitt said the withdrawal would be effective immediately, adding that he wants to assess the need for the information the agency has been collecting under a directive issued in November.
Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and eight other states had questioned the reporting request as overly burdensome.
Mr Pruitt, who until last month was Oklahoma attorney general, said removing the reporting request signals that EPA under his leadership takes seriously the concerns of state officials.
"We are committed to strengthening our partnership with the states," he said in a statement. "Today's action will reduce burdens on businesses while we take a closer look at the need for additional information from this industry."
The Trump administration proposal would cut funding for the brownfields industrial site cleanup program by 42 per cent to $14.7 million (11.9m). It would also reduce funding for enforcing pollution laws by 11 per cent to $153 million (125m).
The budget did not cut state revolving funds for programmes that Congress tapped last year to provide aid to Flint, Michigan, for its lead pollution crisis.
All staff at a research program, called Global Change Research, as well as 37 other programmes would be cut under the plan.
Bill Nye to Bernie Sanders: The effects of Trump's climate change denial could be catastrophic
The Republican-led Congress would have to approve any EPA cuts. Some of the cuts are unlikely to pass as they will be unpopular with both Democrats and Republicans.
Congress would be unlikely to approve a proposal to cut all staff in a diesel emissions program, for example.
Mr Pruitt told US mayors he would make a priority of cleanups of industrial and hazardous waste sites and improving water infrastructure, even as the White House proposed severe cuts to those programmes.
"In this budget discussion that is ongoing with Congress that is just starting, there are some concerns about some of these grant programmes that EPA has been a part of historically," he said.
"I want you to know that with the White House and also with Congress, I am communicating a message that the brownfields programme, the Superfund programme and the water infrastructure grants and state revolving funds are essential to protect."
A state air pollution expert said the programme cuts, if enacted, would harm some of the people most at risk from particulate and lead contamination.
"Any of these programmes where they've cut air pollution or water pollution is going to have a direct effect on inner cities," said Bill Becker, director of the National Association of Clean Air.
Recommended More than 700 species facing extinction hit by climate change
It came as the Trump administration forced the EPA to delete all of its pages on climate change last month.
The move came as part of a broader crackdown on postings by all agencies who track the effects of global warming on the environment.
All of those organisations as well as others, like the National Parks Service were banned from talking to the public by the US government.
Now scientists are scrambling to save some of the most important parts of the EPA's website before they are deleted off the internet entirely.
"If the website goes dark, years of work we have done on climate change will disappear," one official told Reuters soon after the order to shut down the website was sent.
Additional reporting by Reuters
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A UN human rights expert voiced alarm on Friday that US President Donald Trump might allow torture in interrogations, and called for senior officials from George W Bush's administration to be prosecuted for allowing the illegal practice.
US officials responsible for the secret detention, rendition and torture programmes run by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) included "those in the most senior positions" under Bush, said Ben Emmerson, UN special rapporteur on protecting human rights while countering terrorism.
"To hear President Trump, in the first days after his inauguration, glibly extolling the virtues of torture as a weapon in the fight against terrorism, and confirming his personal willingness to authorise the use of torture if asked to do so, was enough to make my blood run cold," Mr Emmerson said.
Mr Trump has acknowledged that US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis disagrees with him about the usefulness of torture in interrogation and said he would defer to him on the issue.
There was no immediate response from the US delegation to the 47-member state forum in Geneva.
Mr Emmerson, a British barrister and international criminal justice expert, said that Mr Trump's comments showed a "staggering level of ill-preparedness to govern." He was making his final speech to the UN Human Rights Council after six years in the independent post.
A veteran CIA clandestine service officer who ran one of the agency's "black site" prisons set up after the 9/11 attacks has been named deputy director of the US spy agency.
Mr Trump's nominee to be the director of national intelligence, former Republican Senator Dan Coats, has raised concerns over his record on the previous US use of so-called enhanced interrogation techniques, such as waterboarding, which are widely seen as torture.
"If one of the most powerful nations in the world, a permanent member of the Security Council, is once again prepared to abandon our collective values on the pretext of defending them, then one is left to wonder whether anything at all has been achieved in the last 15 years," Emmerson said.
Reuters
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Donald Trumps son-in-law and his former security adviser met the Russian ambassador to establish a line of communication, the White House has said.
Jared Kushner and Michael Flynn, who resigned last month after his contact with Sergey Kislyak was revealed, sat down with the official in Trump Tower in December.
The New Yorker reported the meeting earlier this week and it has now been confirmed by the White House.
The development comes amid pressure for Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign over his two conversations with Mr Kislyak during Mr Trumps election campaign.
Six of Mr Trumps team including Paul Manafort, Carter Page and Michael Cohen have allegedly had undisclosed contact with Russia officials.
They generally discussed the relationship and it made sense to establish a line of communication, said White House director of strategic communications Hope Hicks, as reported by the New York Times.
Jared has had meetings with many other foreign countries and representatives as many as two dozen other foreign countries leaders and representatives.
The meeting lasted 20 minutes and that Mr Kushner has not met with Mr Kislyak since, said Ms Hicks.
The brief encounter was held at a time when the US was expelling 35 people suspected of being Russian spies.
When first asked in January, the White House said Mr Flynn only shared a text message and phone call with the Kremlin diplomat.
Mr Flynn resigned, making him the shortest holder of White House office ever, after giving Vice President Mike Pence "incomplete information". Mr Flynn allegedly reassured Mr Kislyak that Russia would be given softer treatment following Mr Trump's inauguration.
Michael Flynn resigns as national security adviser over Russia row
Mr Kislyak, an engineering graduate and previous ambassador to Belgium, is considered to be a spy by US intelligence officials.
The Independent has contacted Ms Hicks for further comment.
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Jeff Sessions is accused of using political funds to travel to an event where he met Russias ambassador to the US, despite the White Houses claim he was acting solely in his role as a senator.
The Attorney General has removed himself from investigations into alleged Russian interference in the US election amid mounting pressure over two encounters with Sergey Kislyak.
One of them occurred at an event held by the Heritage Foundation on the sidelines of the Republican National Convention July.
Sessions denies any wrongdoing
Donald Trumps administration admitted that Mr Sessions met the Russian ambassador but insisted any discussions were in his former role as a senator for Alabama.
But financial records uncovered by the Wall Street Journal and ABC News show he used political funds from his re-election account for the trip, while sources said he discussed Mr Trumps campaign with Mr Kislyak.
I never met with any Russian officials to discuss issues of the campaign, he said in a statement on Wednesday night.
At that same event, the ambassador also spoke with Carter Page, who briefly advised Mr Trump's campaign on foreign policy, a source told the Associated Press.
Mr Sessions failed to disclose his conversations with the Russian ambassador during his confirmation hearing in Congress but rejected suggestions he attempted to mislead anyone.
But he did admit that he should have been more careful in his testimony, adding: "I should have slowed down and said, 'But I did meet one Russian official a couple of times.'"
When specifically asked whether there was evidence of anyone affiliated with Mr Trumps campaign communicating with the Russian government, he had replied: I'm not aware of any of those activities.
Protesters called for Mr Sessions' resignation in front of the justice department in Washington (Nicholas Kamm/AFP/Getty)
I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians and I'm unable to comment on it.
He also answered no in a written questionnaire when asked about contacts regarding the election.
Sarah Isgur Flores, a spokesperson for Mr Sessions, said there was absolutely nothing misleading about his answer.
She added that Mr Sessions had more than 25 conversations with foreign ambassadors as a senior member of the Armed Services Committee in 2016, continuing: He was asked during the hearing about communications between Russia and the Trump campaign - not about meetings he took as a senator and a member of the committee.
Some Democrats have called on Mr Sessions not only to recuse himself from the investigation but to resign, accusing him of lying under oath.
Dmitry Peskov, Mr Putins spokesman, said it was normal for Russian diplomats to meet with American politicians and a foreign ministry representative described the meetings as everyday business.
The President backed his Attorney General on Thursday night, calling him an honest man and claiming the scandal was a witch hunt mounted by Democrats.
In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Show all 30 1 /30 In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President-elect Donald Trump acknowledges guests as he arrives on the platform at the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Donald Trump is sworn in as the 45th president of the United States by Chief Justice John Roberts as Melania Trump looks on during the 58th Presidential Inauguration at the U.S. Capitol in Washington AP In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President Donald Trump shakes hands with Justice John Roberts after taking the oath at inauguration ceremonies swearing in Trump as the 45th president of the United States Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President Donald Trump raises his fists after his inauguration on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Getty In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. President-elect Donald Trump greets outgoing President Barack Obama before Trump is inaugurated during ceremonies on the Capitol in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump resident-elect Donald Trump arrives on the platform of the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Attendees partake in the inauguration ceremonies to swear in Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United States at the U.S. Capitol in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump US President Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address during ceremonies at the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. President Donald Trump waves with wife Melania during the Inaugural Parade in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters registered their rage against the new president Friday in a chaotic confrontation with police who used pepper spray and stun grenades in a melee just blocks from Donald Trump's inaugural parade route. Scores were arrested for trashing property and attacking officers AP In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators protest against US President Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A woman holds a sign before the start of the Presidential Inauguration of Donald Trump at Freedom Plaza in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Anti-Trump protesters prepare banners for a protest against the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, in Berlin REUTERS In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators shout slogans against US President-elect Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators march, block foot traffic and clash with U.S. Capitol Police at the entry checkpoints for the Inauguration of Donald Trump Alamy Live News In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators display a banner as people arrive for US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A man displays a placard as people lineup to get into the National Mall for the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump raise their hands as they are surrounded by police on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A demonstrator wearing a mask depicting Donald Trump protests outside the US Embassy in London Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators hold placards as they protest outside the US Embassy in London Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Former US President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush arrive for the Presidential Inauguration at the US Capitol Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden share an umbrella as President Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address at the inauguration in Washington DC Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton arrive on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. Vice President Mike Pence takes the oath of office on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Advisors to President-elect Donald Trump, Kellyanne Conway and Steve Bannon depart from services at St. John's Church during the Presidential Inauguration in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump take cover as they are hit by pepper spray by police on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump An activist demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump is helped after being hit by pepper spray on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A police officer tries to tackle a protester demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump Reuters/Adrees Latif In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Police arrest and detain a protester in the street in Washington DC Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A police officer falls to the ground as another shoots pepper spray at protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters
He did not say anything wrong, Mr Trump wrote on Twitter. He could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not intentional.
Conversations with Mr Kislyak were the cause of another blow to Mr Trumps administration last month, when his national security adviser was forced to resign.
Michael Flynn admitted giving incomplete information to the Vice President over whether sanctions were discussed during phone calls in December.
A White House official said Mr Flynn met the Russian ambassador with Mr Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, at Trump Tower in New York in December, describing the sit-down as a brief courtesy meeting.
Barack Obamas administration had slapped successive rounds of penalties on the Russian government and selected individuals over the wars in Ukraine and Syria, which brought US-Russia relations down to the worst level since the Cold War.
Mr Trump has taken a markedly different approach to his predecessor, repeatedly praising Vladimir Putin during his election campaign and aiming to improve ties.
The President has dismissed a report by his own intelligence agencies after it found evidence of Kremlin involvement in cyber attacks that damaged Hillary Clintons campaign, and has claimed he has no deals or links in Russia.
But his continued refusal to disclose his tax returns, defying decades of precedent, has fuelled calls for the Senate Finance Committee to launch a formal review.
Democrats are also mounting a push for a wider investigation into alleged links between the Russian government and Mr Trumps administration, transition and campaign teams.
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Following a spate of attacks and threats on Jewish establishments, Muslim Americans have been offering to stand guard at sites across the US in a show of solidarity between people of Islamic and Jewish faiths.
In addition to documented vandalism such as the desecration graves in Missouri and elsewhere at least 100 bomb threats against Jewish sites across the country were reported by the religions JCC Association in January and February.
Outraged by the growing climate of anti-Semitism, former US Marine Tayyib Rashib tweeted: "If your synagogue or Jewish cemetery needs someone to stand guard, count me in. Islam requires it."
Mr Rashib, who refers to himself on social media as The Muslim Marine, added a series of comments which underpinned his stance.
Our God reminds us that we can achieve peace & security ONLY when we wish for others what we wish for ourselves, he said.
If we care to establish peace and justice we must learn to see the world thru the eyes of the oppressed. I, Muslim Marine, stand with you.
He also offered to meet in a coffee shop with members of the Jewish community and wider public to talk about their concerns.
Mr Rashibs message quickly went viral and sparked a series of similar offers.
Two Muslim American veterans, whose tweets are protected so not visible to all users, also expressed solidarity.
"I echo Muslim Marine - Im a Muslim Veteran in Arizona and will readily stand guard at any Jewish Synagogue or Cemetery at ANY hour. #WeAreOne," said Nate Terani.
In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Show all 30 1 /30 In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President-elect Donald Trump acknowledges guests as he arrives on the platform at the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Donald Trump is sworn in as the 45th president of the United States by Chief Justice John Roberts as Melania Trump looks on during the 58th Presidential Inauguration at the U.S. Capitol in Washington AP In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President Donald Trump shakes hands with Justice John Roberts after taking the oath at inauguration ceremonies swearing in Trump as the 45th president of the United States Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President Donald Trump raises his fists after his inauguration on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Getty In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. President-elect Donald Trump greets outgoing President Barack Obama before Trump is inaugurated during ceremonies on the Capitol in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump resident-elect Donald Trump arrives on the platform of the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Attendees partake in the inauguration ceremonies to swear in Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United States at the U.S. Capitol in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump US President Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address during ceremonies at the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. President Donald Trump waves with wife Melania during the Inaugural Parade in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters registered their rage against the new president Friday in a chaotic confrontation with police who used pepper spray and stun grenades in a melee just blocks from Donald Trump's inaugural parade route. Scores were arrested for trashing property and attacking officers AP In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators protest against US President Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A woman holds a sign before the start of the Presidential Inauguration of Donald Trump at Freedom Plaza in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Anti-Trump protesters prepare banners for a protest against the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, in Berlin REUTERS In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators shout slogans against US President-elect Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators march, block foot traffic and clash with U.S. Capitol Police at the entry checkpoints for the Inauguration of Donald Trump Alamy Live News In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators display a banner as people arrive for US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A man displays a placard as people lineup to get into the National Mall for the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump raise their hands as they are surrounded by police on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A demonstrator wearing a mask depicting Donald Trump protests outside the US Embassy in London Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators hold placards as they protest outside the US Embassy in London Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Former US President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush arrive for the Presidential Inauguration at the US Capitol Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden share an umbrella as President Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address at the inauguration in Washington DC Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton arrive on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. Vice President Mike Pence takes the oath of office on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Advisors to President-elect Donald Trump, Kellyanne Conway and Steve Bannon depart from services at St. John's Church during the Presidential Inauguration in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump take cover as they are hit by pepper spray by police on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump An activist demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump is helped after being hit by pepper spray on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A police officer tries to tackle a protester demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump Reuters/Adrees Latif In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Police arrest and detain a protester in the street in Washington DC Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A police officer falls to the ground as another shoots pepper spray at protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters
Khalid Whalid said: "Houston area Jewish community I spent ten years protecting our country and I will gladly protect Jewish places of worship if you need me!"
The JCC Association also tweeted a letter of support it received from the Valley Ranch Islamic Centre in Texas.
Muslim Americans have already been contributing to the effort to clean up vandalised Jewish cemeteries.
After an attack on a cemetery in Rochester, New York state, a group of local Muslims went directly to the site to help.
A fund set up by Islamic activists Linda Sarsour and Tarek El-Messidi to support the repair work quickly reached over $150,000, with donations still coming in.
Muslims raise thousands to repair Jewish cemetery vandalised near St. Louis
In Florida, Muslim students showed solidarity with their Jewish peers by sending them flowers.
Some critics have suggested the apparent rising atmosphere of anti-Semitism is connected to the rhetoric of President Donald Trump.
After a long period of silence regarding the attacks, the President appeared to suggest they may have been committed by members of the Jewish community themselves to undermine his administration.
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By now, the story hardly needs telling among Jourdan Duncan's family and friends.
Late one night last September, the teenager had been walking back to his parents' home from work, a seven-mile trip from Benecia to Vallejo, Calif.
Duncan had been making the long commute on foot each day since July, after the timing belt and an engine valve on his 2001 Volvo had broken. Without enough money for repairs, he at first got a few rides from friends and co-workers - but soon decided he would try to walk to avoid burdening others.
"To me, it was like a challenge to see if I was willing to do whatever it takes to get to work," Duncan, now 19, told The Washington Post then.
Day by day the walk became easier, and gradually he thought little of the two-hour-and-15-minute journey each way. He would have no way of knowing that his daily routine would first prompt a surprise gift from the local police - then inspire thousands of people to give far more.
But to Cpl. Kirk Keffer of the Benicia Police Department, who was patrolling that area that September night, the sight of a lone pedestrian in that part of town after 11 p.m. was startling.
"Usually in the industrial area there's no foot traffic, so it was kind of weird to see someone walking around on foot," Keffer told The Post then.
He stopped his patrol car and called out to Duncan to ask if he was OK.
Duncan admitted later that he was nervous.
"I thought, OK, um, did I do anything wrong?" he said in September. "Is he going to put me in cuffs? I didn't do anything bad."
Duncan explained to Keffer he was walking seven miles home, just as he did every day. Shocked, Keffer cleared out the passenger seat in his patrol car and offered Duncan a ride home.
On the ride home, Keffer got to know the teenager: Duncan had just graduated from Jesse Bethel High School in 2015. He had gotten a job at Pro-Form Laboratories in May, where he worked on the packaging line from 3 p.m. until about midnight. He was saving money for college and enjoyed being around his co-workers, he said - but really wanted to be an officer with the California Highway Patrol, to follow in the footsteps of some relatives who were in law enforcement.
By the time Keffer pulled up to Duncan's parents' house that night - all of 15 minutes later, by car - the police officer was impressed. He commended Duncan on his work ethic, dropped him off and drove back to the station.
Still, he couldn't get Duncan's commute out of his head. Keffer mentioned his interaction to his shift supervisor, who, like Keffer, happened to be a board member of the Benicia Police Officers' Association.
"So I hit him up and say, 'I just had this contact with this young man,' " Keffer said then. " 'He's walking five hours a day, and I think it should be rewarded. What if we help him out?' "
They emailed the rest of the board to seek approval to buy a bicycle. It was, he said, one of the fastest votes they've ever taken: Within an hour, enough board members wrote back in agreement. And so, the following day, Keffer visited Wheels in Motion, a local bike shop, to pick out a $500 bike with a reliable gearing system that could handle Benicia's steep hills. The bike shop's owner loved the teen's story so much that he also donated a lighting system, brake light and helmet.
Keffer and some other Benecia police offers surprised Duncan after work a few days later.
"We would like to acknowledge your hard work and dedication for what you do and setting the example for kids your age," Keffer said they told him. "Hopefully this'll make your trip easier."
Duncan said he was bowled over by the gift, but also stymied by the attention. Several local news stations wanted him on their shows. Normally reserved, he shyly agreed to talk to all of them - "I was so nervous; I've never been on TV" - but couldn't help but think: They want to interview me for walking?
This newspaper interviewed him. CNN came calling.
His commute was cut down to an hour. That, as far as most people were concerned, was where his story came to a happy ending.
But the police officers weren't done with Duncan. A few days after The Post's story ran, the police association started a GoFundMe account to raise money for the teenager to repair his car.
They set their initial goal at $5,000.
Within a day or two, donors had met the limit. So they moved the goal to $10,000. Then, a few days after that, to $25,000.
The donations kept rolling in.
"The community just had an outpouring of love for him," Keffer said Tuesday. "It was something the community needed, something positive at the time."
They moved the goal one last time.
"We have now raised the goal to $50,000 with hopes that Jourdan can use this gift to help him achieve his dreams beyond fixing his car," the association posted in an update on the GoFundMe account about a month after it was started. "Fund his educational aspirations and dreams."
It has raised more than $42,000.
If Duncan was shocked by the bike, he was nearly speechless at the GoFundMe donations that continued pouring in last fall.
"I never imagined that it would go from $5,000 to $20,000 to $40,000," Duncan said Tuesday. "It's just amazing."
According to Keffer, Duncan's friends half-jokingly suggested that he take the money and buy a BMW. His father said he should stick to a reliable car, such as a Honda.
At some point, Duncan consulted Keffer.
"It's your money," he said he told the teen. "I would never tell you not to, but just do what you want."
Duncan soon spotted a 2003 Volkswagen Passat for sale on Craigslist. It was gray, with 112,000 miles on it and "seemed like my type of car," he said. He went to check it out.
"It was in perfect condition," Duncan said. He bought it for $2,900.
Keffer was proud of his decision.
"Just something sensible, something he can maintain. He owns it outright," Keffer said. "He kept the money in the bank . . . It feels good to know that Jourdan trusts me."
In January, Duncan also started his first semester at Solano Community College. His first month, he was overwhelmed with how different it was from high school.
"I was so used to kids my age and everything," he said. "Here, they carry themselves more with pride, with care and everything. It just made me feel like, okay, I have to step up to the plate."
Duncan's class schedule keeps him busy most days, but he has continued to work his night shift at Pro-Form Laboratories. The car, he said, is what makes it possible to zip between his classes at two of Solano's campuses - in Fairfield and Vallejo - and his job in Benicia.
Duncan's ultimate goal is to transfer to a four-year college, major in engineering and then try out for the police academy. And every so often, he still stops by the Benicia police headquarters to catch up with Keffer.
"I'm just super proud of him. He could have went so many different ways with that money," Keffer said. "He stopped and asked for my opinion, which meant a lot. . . . He's got a bright future ahead of him. I just hope that he continues down this path."
c) 2017, The Washington Post
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Officials are investigating the cause of a fire that started at the Trump International Hotel and Tower in New York.
The blaze started on the 47th floor of the building, which overlooks Central Park, in the early hours of Friday morning.
The fire brigade was called at around 4.30am local time (9.30am GMT) and the fire was extinguished at around 5.20am (10.20am GMT), local television reported.
The Fire Department of New York is investigating the cause of the blaze but have not found any indication it was "suspicious".
A protester attempted to set himself on fire outside one of Mr Trump's hotels in Washington in January.
I was trying to light myself on fire as an act of protest, the man said, before being taken for medical treatment. Protesting the fact that we've elected someone who is completely incapable of respecting the Constitution of the United States.
In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Show all 30 1 /30 In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President-elect Donald Trump acknowledges guests as he arrives on the platform at the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Donald Trump is sworn in as the 45th president of the United States by Chief Justice John Roberts as Melania Trump looks on during the 58th Presidential Inauguration at the U.S. Capitol in Washington AP In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President Donald Trump shakes hands with Justice John Roberts after taking the oath at inauguration ceremonies swearing in Trump as the 45th president of the United States Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President Donald Trump raises his fists after his inauguration on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Getty In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. President-elect Donald Trump greets outgoing President Barack Obama before Trump is inaugurated during ceremonies on the Capitol in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump resident-elect Donald Trump arrives on the platform of the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Attendees partake in the inauguration ceremonies to swear in Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United States at the U.S. Capitol in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump US President Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address during ceremonies at the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. President Donald Trump waves with wife Melania during the Inaugural Parade in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters registered their rage against the new president Friday in a chaotic confrontation with police who used pepper spray and stun grenades in a melee just blocks from Donald Trump's inaugural parade route. Scores were arrested for trashing property and attacking officers AP In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators protest against US President Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A woman holds a sign before the start of the Presidential Inauguration of Donald Trump at Freedom Plaza in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Anti-Trump protesters prepare banners for a protest against the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, in Berlin REUTERS In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators shout slogans against US President-elect Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators march, block foot traffic and clash with U.S. Capitol Police at the entry checkpoints for the Inauguration of Donald Trump Alamy Live News In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators display a banner as people arrive for US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A man displays a placard as people lineup to get into the National Mall for the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump raise their hands as they are surrounded by police on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A demonstrator wearing a mask depicting Donald Trump protests outside the US Embassy in London Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators hold placards as they protest outside the US Embassy in London Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Former US President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush arrive for the Presidential Inauguration at the US Capitol Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden share an umbrella as President Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address at the inauguration in Washington DC Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton arrive on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. Vice President Mike Pence takes the oath of office on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Advisors to President-elect Donald Trump, Kellyanne Conway and Steve Bannon depart from services at St. John's Church during the Presidential Inauguration in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump take cover as they are hit by pepper spray by police on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump An activist demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump is helped after being hit by pepper spray on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A police officer tries to tackle a protester demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump Reuters/Adrees Latif In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Police arrest and detain a protester in the street in Washington DC Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A police officer falls to the ground as another shoots pepper spray at protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters
The President is distancing himself from his hotel and real estate empire to avoid potential conflicts of interest that raised have raised concern among opponents.
He and his daughter Ivanka have resigned all roles with the Trump Organisation, which is being run by the President's two eldest sons.
But his continued refusal to disclose his tax returns, defying decades of precedent, has fuelled calls for the Senate Finance Committee to launch a formal review.
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US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, a former oil industry mogul, is reportedly one of the main obstacles to Clexit Americas climate exit from the Paris Agreement within the Trump administration.
Mr Tillerson, former chief executive of Exxon Mobil, and the Presidents daughter Ivanka believe the move could damage diplomatic relations with important allies, The New York Times reported.
However senior Trump adviser Steve Bannon, former head of the far-right news website Breitbart which has published articles dismissing climate science, is leading those within the administration who want the President to live up to his pre-election promise to withdraw the US from the international treaty.
Exxon Mobil endorsed the Paris Agreement despite once having denied fossil fuel emissions were causing global warming.
It is thought Mr Tillerson believes it is important the US retains influence on the rest of the world that would be lost if it withdraws from the agreement.
Marc Morano, an ex-Republican Senate staffer who now runs the fossil-fuel funded website Climate Depot, told the Times: The two greatest obstacles to a Clexit are probably Ivanka and Tillerson.
Tillerson with his seat at the table views could be biggest proponent of not withdrawing the US from the agreement.
Another climate sceptic, Thomas Pyle, the president of the Institute for Energy Research, expressed the kind of case being made by Mr Bannon.
If the goal is to fulfill the presidents campaign promises and implement his agenda, there is no value in staying in Paris, he said.
However a number of Republicans believe the US could potentially remain a token member of the Paris Agreement.
Senator Bob Corker, who chairs the Foreign Relations Committee, told the Times: Theres really no obligation. It doesnt require us to do anything.
I think they may take a little time to assess whether pulling out makes sense now.
10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Show all 10 1 /10 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A group of emperor penguins face a crack in the sea ice, near McMurdo Station, Antarctica Kira Morris 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Floods destroyed eight bridges and ruined crops such as wheat, maize and peas in the Karimabad valley in northern Pakistan, a mountainous region with many glaciers. In many parts of the world, glaciers have been in retreat, creating dangerously large lakes that can cause devastating flooding when the banks break. Climate change can also increase rainfall in some areas, while bringing drought to others. Hira Ali 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Smoke filled with the carbon that is driving climate change drifts across a field in Colombia. Sandra Rondon 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Amid a flood in Islampur, Jamalpur, Bangladesh, a woman on a raft searches for somewhere dry to take shelter. Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable places in the world to sea level rise, which is expected to make tens of millions of people homeless by 2050. Probal Rashid 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Sindh province in Pakistan has experienced a grim mix of two consequences of climate change. Because of climate change either we have floods or not enough water to irrigate our crop and feed our animals, says the photographer. Picture clearly indicates that the extreme drought makes wide cracks in clay. Crops are very difficult to grow. Rizwan Dharejo 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Hanna Petursdottir examines a cave inside the Svinafellsjokull glacier in Iceland, which she said had been growing rapidly. Since 2000, the size of glaciers on Iceland has reduced by 12 per cent. Tom Schifanella 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A river once flowed along the depression in the dry earth of this part of Bangladesh, but it has disappeared amid rising temperatures. Abrar Hossain 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A shepherd moves his herd as he looks for green pasture near the village of Sirohi in Rajasthan, northern India. The region has been badly affected by heatwaves and drought, making local people nervous about further predicted increases in temperature. Riddhima Singh Bhati 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A factory in China is shrouded by a haze of air pollution. The World Health Organisation has warned such pollution, much of which is from the fossil fuels that cause climate change, is a public health emergency. Leung Ka Wa 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Water levels in reservoirs, like this one in Gers, France, have been getting perilously low in areas across the world affected by drought, forcing authorities to introduce water restrictions. Mahtuf Ikhsan
And Nicholas Burns, who was Under Secretary of State in George W Bushs administration, said: I think it would be a major mistake, even a historic mistake, to disavow the Paris deal.
In international politics, trust, reliability and keeping your commitments, thats a big part of how other countries view our country.
I cant think of an issue, except perhaps Nato, where if the US simply walks away, it would have such a major negative impact on how we are seen.
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Former Texas governor Rick Perry has been sworn in as Donald Trump's energy secretary despite having once pledged to scrap the department he will now run.
The appointment was confirmed by a vote in the Senate. He was approved by 62-37.
Mr Perry has promised to protect Americas nuclear stockpile and is an advocate of all forms of US energy production, including coal and oil.
During his bid for the Republican presidential nomination in 2011, he said he planned to scrap the energy department.
Recommended Trump picks climate change denier Rick Perry as Energy Secretary
But Democrats, whose votes were needed in the Senate to approve his nomination, said they had accepted Mr Perry's disavowal of that pledge.
Mr Perry will replace Ernest Moniz, who was chairman of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology physics department.
Mr Perrys appointment will do little to assuage fears among environmentalists that the Trump administration plans to roll back Obama-era policies to limit the impact of global warming.
The new energy secretary has acknowledged that man-made climate change is real but also said combating it should not come at the expense of economic growth.
Rick Perry forgets agencies of government during debate,
I believe some of it is naturally occurring, but some of it is also caused by man-made activity, he said.
The question is how do we address it in a thoughtful way that doesnt compromise economic growth, the affordability of energy or American jobs.
During Mr Perry's 14-years as governor, Texas was one of Americas top drillers for oil and gas.
But the state also emerged as a leading producer of wind power and a top 10 provider of solar power.
The 66-year-old left office in 2015 and went on to launch his second bid for the Republican nomination.
He was very critical of Mr Trump, calling him a cancer on conservatism, but later endorsed the New York tycoon.
His confirmation came as Ben Carson was sworn in as the next secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The retired neurosurgeon and Republican presidential candidate was confirmed by a separate vote in the Senate.
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Donald Trumps father was arrested after a Ku Klux Klan riot in the 1920s, news reports from the time suggest.
An article from a June 1927 edition of the New York Times records seven men being arrested after a brawl in New York, including Fred Trump of 175-24 Devonshire Road, Jamaica the same name and address as the current US Presidents father.
The fight was said to have been between members of the white supremacist Klan and supporters of the Italian fascist movement.
Under the headline Klan assails policemen, the article, first uncovered by the BoingBoing blog, details how Mr Trump was one of those detained after a battle in which 1,000 Klansmen and 100 policemen staged a free-for-all.
It quotes the then New York Police Commissioner, Joseph Warren, saying the Klansmen wore gowns and had hoods covering their faces.
Having been represented by the same lawyer as the six other men, Fred Trump was discharged the only one of the seven not to be charged with a criminal offence.
It is unclear what role, if any, Mr Trump played in the brawl. Some reports at the time suggested he was arrested for refusing to disperse.
Another news story on the fight claimed that all seven men arrested were wearing KKK gowns and hoods.
In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Show all 30 1 /30 In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President-elect Donald Trump acknowledges guests as he arrives on the platform at the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Donald Trump is sworn in as the 45th president of the United States by Chief Justice John Roberts as Melania Trump looks on during the 58th Presidential Inauguration at the U.S. Capitol in Washington AP In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President Donald Trump shakes hands with Justice John Roberts after taking the oath at inauguration ceremonies swearing in Trump as the 45th president of the United States Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump President Donald Trump raises his fists after his inauguration on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Getty In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. President-elect Donald Trump greets outgoing President Barack Obama before Trump is inaugurated during ceremonies on the Capitol in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump resident-elect Donald Trump arrives on the platform of the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Attendees partake in the inauguration ceremonies to swear in Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United States at the U.S. Capitol in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump US President Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address during ceremonies at the US Capitol in Washington DC Getty In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. President Donald Trump waves with wife Melania during the Inaugural Parade in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters registered their rage against the new president Friday in a chaotic confrontation with police who used pepper spray and stun grenades in a melee just blocks from Donald Trump's inaugural parade route. Scores were arrested for trashing property and attacking officers AP In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators protest against US President Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A woman holds a sign before the start of the Presidential Inauguration of Donald Trump at Freedom Plaza in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Anti-Trump protesters prepare banners for a protest against the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, in Berlin REUTERS In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators shout slogans against US President-elect Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators march, block foot traffic and clash with U.S. Capitol Police at the entry checkpoints for the Inauguration of Donald Trump Alamy Live News In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators display a banner as people arrive for US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A man displays a placard as people lineup to get into the National Mall for the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump in Washington DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump raise their hands as they are surrounded by police on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A demonstrator wearing a mask depicting Donald Trump protests outside the US Embassy in London Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Demonstrators hold placards as they protest outside the US Embassy in London Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Former US President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush arrive for the Presidential Inauguration at the US Capitol Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden share an umbrella as President Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address at the inauguration in Washington DC Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Former Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton arrive on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump U.S. Vice President Mike Pence takes the oath of office on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC Getty Images In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Advisors to President-elect Donald Trump, Kellyanne Conway and Steve Bannon depart from services at St. John's Church during the Presidential Inauguration in Washington Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump take cover as they are hit by pepper spray by police on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump An activist demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump is helped after being hit by pepper spray on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A police officer tries to tackle a protester demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump Reuters/Adrees Latif In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump Police arrest and detain a protester in the street in Washington DC Rex In pictures: Protests, pomp and Donald Trump A police officer falls to the ground as another shoots pepper spray at protesters demonstrating against U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the inauguration in Washington DC Reuters
Mr Trumps father would have been 21 at the time of his arrest. He later became a multi-millionaire property developer after starting out building houses in New York.
The fight took place on 29 May 1927 the US Memorial Day - at a time when New York authorities were trying to halt the KKKs growing presence in the city. Originally founded in the 19th Century, the Klan was reformed in 1915 and became a violent organisation that promoted white nationalism and targeted black Americans.
Asked by the New York Times last year whether his father had been arrested at a Klan event, Donald Trump repeatedly denied it, insisting it never happened and saying it was totally false that his father lived on Devonshire Road, despite records appearing to confirm it to be true.
"We lived on Wareham," he said. "The DevonshireI know there is a road 'Devonshire,' but I don't think my father ever lived on Devonshire.
Donald Trump refuses to condemn KKK endorsement
The President and his team have been unable to quell speculation about his fathers alleged links with the Klu Klux Klan.
Donald Trump has also faced questions over the fact he was endorsed by the Klan during the presidential election campaign and has consistently been praised by the organisations former leader, or Imperial Wizard, David Duke.
Asked by CNN last year whether he would distance himself from Mr Dukes endorsement, the Republican replied: "I dont know anything about David Duke, okay?"
"I dont know anything about what youre even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists.
I don't know, did he endorse me? Or what's going on. Because I know nothing about David Duke. I know nothing about white supremacists."
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In what was either an attempt to raise a laugh, or more likely distract attention from his own woes, Donald Trump has suggested that Chuck Schumer should be investigated for his links to Russia.
He made the suggestion by posting an image of the Democratic senator eating a doughnut - or a donut according in American English - with Russian president Vladimir Putin.
We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin, he said. A total hypocrite.
Mr Trumps administration is under intense attention amid allegations of its links to Russian officials.
This week, Mr Trumps Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, was forced to recuse himself from an overseeing an ongoing probe into those alleged links after it emerged he had twice met with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the 2016 election campaign.
Trump says he still has 'total' confidence in Jeff Sessions
He had previously said under sworn testimony to senators on Capitol Hill that he had not had any meetings with Russian officials.
Mr Schumer, the Democratic leader in the senate, was among those who said the recusal was insufficient.
He has called both for Mr Sessions to resign, and for the appointment of an independent prosecutor to lead a probe of alleged Russian interference in the election and links between Moscow and Mr Trumps campaign. Mr Trump has repeatedly denied any such links.
The photograph tweeted on Friday - apparently from an iPhone used by Mr Trumps senior aides rather than his own Android phone - was of Mr Schumer welcoming Mr Putin during a visit to New York in 2003.
Mr Schumer was quick to respond to Mr Trumps jibe. Happily talk re: my contact w Mr Putin & his associates, took place in 03 in full view of press & public under oath. Would you &your team, he wrote.
He added: And for the record, they were Krispy Kreme donuts.
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Donald Trump appears to have pushed for the Republicans to adopt a pro-Moscow policy over Ukraine just as his senior aides were meeting with Russias US Ambassador.
At the Republican National Convention last summer, the party agreed to insert language into its platform that opposed arming or providing Ukraine with weapons to take on pro-Russian rebels. At the time, Mr Trump told an interviewer he wasnt involved in it.
But now, a former adviser to Mr Trump has revealed that the push to change the platform came after the direct intervention of the New York tycoon. Mr Trump had hinted as to his views on Ukraine during a speech in the spring of 2016, where the Russian Ambassador, Sergey Kislyak, was among the guests.
CNN said that a Republican advisor, JD Gordon, had said the move to push the change in the partys policy was to make it align with Mr Trumps personal views.
Mr Gordon previously said that he did not speak publicly at the GOP national security sub-committee meeting, where the amendment was discussed. Originally the policy called for providing lethal defence weapons to the Ukrainian army to fend off Russian-backed rebels. It was changed to providing appropriate assistance to Ukraine.
The broadcaster said that Mr Gordon had now revealed that he and others advocated for the GOP platform to include language against arming Ukrainians against pro-Russian rebels because this was in line with Trump's views.
Gordon says Trump said at the meetingthat he didnt want to go to World War Three over Ukraine, CNN said.
Trump says he still has 'total' confidence in Jeff Sessions
Mr Gordon also confirmed that he and another policy advisor to Mr Trump, Carter Page, met Mr Kislyak at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Cleveland last July. Mr Gordon did not respond to inquiries on Friday.
The development comes as Mr Trumps administration is facing further scrutiny over its alleged links to Russia.
This week, Mr Trumps Attorney General was forced to recuse himself from overseeing the federal inquiry into Russsias alleged interference in the US election and its possible links to members of Mr Triumps team, after it emerged he had twice met with Mr Kislyak. He had previously told senators while under oath that he had never done so. One of the meeting was at the RNC.
It also emerged that two other senior members of Mr Trumps team, former general Mike Flynn and policy adviser Jared Kushner, had met Mr Kislyak in December to establish initial contacts with the Russian government. Mr Flynn was in January forced to resign as his national security adviser after he lied about a conversation he had with Mr Kislyak - prior to Mr Trumps taking office - at which the issue of sanctions was discussed.
Trump denies involvement in softening the GOP stance on Ukraine
Mr Trump has never hidden his wish to try and reset the US-Russia relationship.
At the speech he delivered at Washington DCs Mayflower Hotel in April, Mr Trump said: I believe an easing of tensions and improved relations with Russia- from a position of strength only - is possible, absolutely possible. Some say the Russians wont be reasonable. I intend to find out.
Yet after the Republican position on Ukraine was changed that summer, Mr Trump he claimed he had nothing to do with it.
I wasn't involved in that, Mr Trump said in an interview with ABC. Honestly, I was not involved.
Several investigations are underway into Russias alleged interference in the 2016 election - an operation supposedly undertaken to benefit Mr Trump. Mr Trump has repeatedly denied that either he or any members of his team have had any contact with Russia, or colluded in anyway in its efforts to influence the election.
An unverified dossier presented to Trump in January by top US intelligence officials alleged that Mr Trump agreed to sideline the issue of Russian intervention in Ukraine during his campaign after Russia promised to feed the emails it stole from prominent Democrats inboxes to WikiLeaks.
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Pressure is mounting for the appointment of a special prosecutor to investigate Russias alleged meddling in the US presidential election and possible contacts between Donald Trumps campaign and Moscow. Experts say the circumstances of Jeff Sessions standing aside increase the chances for such a development.
Mr Sessions, the Attorney General, has recused himself from ongoing investigations that the Department of Justice is already overseeing. He did so after it emerged he had met with the Russian Ambassador to Washington, Sergey Kislyak, having previously testified to senators that he had not.
Mr Trump had earlier said he did not think Mr Sessions one of his earliest supporters on Capitol Hill needed to remove himself from the probe and said he had done nothing wrong.
But Democrats have said Mr Sessions should resign, and that the government should appoint a special prosecutor to lead the probe of possible links with Russia.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Mr Sessions acting deputy, Dana Boente, should appoint a special prosecutor to oversee the investigation.
He also raised the prospect of reviving a decades-old independent counsel law, introduced in the aftermath of Watergate, that could allow a three-judge panel the authority to appoint an independent counsel.
Sessions denies any wrongdoing
If the Justice Department drags its feet and refuses to appoint a special prosecutor or select someone with insufficient independence, there is another route, Mr Schumer said.
Meanwhile, The Intercept reported that the recusal of Mr Sessions and the fact that Mr Boente is only operating in an acting position, opens a way for Democratic senators to exert unusual influence over the issue.
Mr Trumps nominee for Mr Sessions deputy, Rod Rosenstein, will undergo confirmation hearings with the Senate Judiciary Committee this month. Those Judiciary Committee members can now ask Mr Rosenstein to commit to naming a special prosecutor before voting whether to send his nomination to the full senate.
At least seven of the nine Democrats on the Judiciary Committee, have publicly called for a special prosecutor to investigate potential criminal actions by Russian officials and any of Mr Trumps associates, the website wrote. South Carolina senator Lindsay Graham, one of the 11 Republicans on the committee, has said that if there is something there that the FBI believes is criminal in nature, then for sure you need a special prosecutor. If the nine Democrats and Mr Graham acted as a block, they would have the power to prevent Mr Rosensteins nomination from being voted out of committee, it said.
There may be nothing there, Mr Graham said this week. But if there is something there that the FBI believes is criminal in nature, then for sure you need a special prosecutor.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis also said it might make sense to bring in a special prosecutor should more facts come to light.
Well let the facts speak for themselves, he said. You just want to nip that because we dont want this to be a distraction at the expense of so many things that need to be corrected at the Department of Justice.
Mr Trump may be loath to allow a wide-ranging special prosecutor take charge. The law that allowed for the creation special counsel fell into disuse after Kenneth Starrs lengthy investigation into President Bill Clinton.
Larry Sabato, Professor of politics at the University of Virginia, said it was unclear at this point how bad things might get for Mr Sessions.
Sessions has been caught in a clear misrepresentation under oath and maybe an out-and-out lie. This cant help his image, he told The Independent.
But its too soon to say hes fighting for his political life. General Flynn had few allies and was unknown to many. Sessions benefits from having many friends in Congress and elsewhere.
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There is an echo at the highest levels of Russian and American politics. Donald Trump has described the increasing pressure on his attorney general, Jeff Sessions, as a "witch hunt", and the Kremlin's foreign minister later used exactly the same phrase.
Mr Sessions has recused himself from any probe that examines communications between President Trump's aides and Moscow following revelations that he spoke twice with the Russian ambassador, Sergey Kislyak, during the campaign and failed to say so to Congress.
The President tweeted his support for the attorney general and said on Friday: "This whole narrative is a way of saving face for Democrats losing an election that everyone thought they were supposed to win.
"Now they have lost their grip on reality. The real story is all of the illegal leaks of classified and other information. It is a total 'witch hunt!'"
Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural Show all 14 1 /14 Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural A lesbian couple kisses in front of mural depicting Russian President Vladimir Putin and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, on the walls of a barbecue bar 'Keule Ruke' on May 19, 2016 in Vilnius, Lithuania. Barcroft Media/Getty Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural A lesbian couple kisses in front of mural depicting Russian President Vladimir Putin and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, on the walls of a barbecue bar 'Keule Ruke' on May 19, 2016 in Vilnius, Lithuania. Barcroft Media/Getty Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural VILNIUS, LITHUANIA - NOVEMBER 23: A woman walks past a mural showing U.S. President-elect Donald Trump (R) blowing marijuana smoke into the mouth of Russian President Vladimir Putin on the wall of a bar-b-que restaurant on November 23, 2016 in Vilnius, Lithuania. Many people in the three Baltic nations of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are concerned that Russia, because Trump has expressed both admiration for Putin and doubt over defending NATO member states, will be emboldened to intervene militarily in the Baltics. Sean Gallup/Getty Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural A woman walks past a mural on a restaurant wall depicting US Presidential hopeful Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin greeting each other with a kiss in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius on May 13, 2016. Kestutis Girnius, associate professor of the Institute of International Relations and Political Science in Vilnius university, told AFP -This graffiti expresses the fear of some Lithuanians that Donald Trump is likely to kowtow to Vladimir Putin and be indifferent to Lithuanias security concerns. Trump has notoriously stated that Putin is a strong leader, and that NATO is obsolete and expensive. Petras Malukas/AFP/Getty Images Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural AP Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural A child walks past a graffiti depicting Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, on the walls of a bar in the old town in Vilnius, Lithuania, Saturday, May 14, 2016. (AP Photo/Mindaugas Kulbis) AP Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural People walk past a mural on a restaurant wall depicting US Presidential hopeful Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin greeting each other with a kiss in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius on May 13, 2016. Kestutis Girnius, associate professor of the Institute of International Relations and Political Science in Vilnius university, told AFP -This graffiti expresses the fear of some Lithuanians that Donald Trump is likely to kowtow to Vladimir Putin and be indifferent to Lithuanias security concerns. Trump has notoriously stated that Putin is a strong leader, and that NATO is obsolete and expensive. Petras Malukas/AFP/Getty Images Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural A man photographs a mural on a restaurant wall depicting US Presidential hopeful Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin greeting each other with a kiss in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius on May 13, 2016. Kestutis Girnius, associate professor of the Institute of International Relations and Political Science in Vilnius university, told AFP -This graffiti expresses the fear of some Lithuanians that Donald Trump is likely to kowtow to Vladimir Putin and be indifferent to Lithuanias security concerns. Trump has notoriously stated that Putin is a strong leader, and that NATO is obsolete and expensive. Petras Malukas/AFP/Getty Images Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural AP Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural A young woman walks past a mural showing U.S. President-elect Donald Trump (R) blowing marijuana smoke into the mouth of Russian President Vladimir Putin with the slogan "make everything great again," in reference to Trump's campaign slogan of "Make America Great Again," on the wall of a bar-b-que restaurant on November 23, 2016 in Vilnius, Lithuania. Many people in the three Baltic nations of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are concerned that Russia, because Trump has expressed both admiration for Putin and doubt over defending NATO member states, will be emboldened to intervene militarily in the Baltics. Sean Gallup/Getty Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural A morning commuter stops to look at a mural on a restaurant wall depicting US Presidential hopeful Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin greeting each other with a kiss in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius on May 13, 2016. Kestutis Girnius, associate professor of the Institute of International Relations and Political Science in Vilnius university, told AFP -This graffiti expresses the fear of some Lithuanians that Donald Trump is likely to kowtow to Vladimir Putin and be indifferent to Lithuanias security concerns. Trump has notoriously stated that Putin is a strong leader, and that NATO is obsolete and expensive. Petras Malukas/AFP/Getty Images Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural Restaurant owner Dominykas Ceckauskas pose next to a mural on the wall of his establishment depicting US Presidential hopeful Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin greeting each other with a kiss in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius on May 13, 2016. Kestutis Girnius, associate professor of the Institute of International Relations and Political Science in Vilnius university, told AFP -This graffiti expresses the fear of some Lithuanians that Donald Trump is likely to kowtow to Vladimir Putin and be indifferent to Lithuanias security concerns. Trump has notoriously stated that Putin is a strong leader, and that NATO is obsolete and expensive. / AFP / Petras Malukas (Photo credit should read PETRAS MALUKAS/AFP/Getty Images) Petras Malukas/AFP/Getty Images Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural A passerby photographs a mural showing U.S. President-elect Donald Trump (R) blowing marijuana smoke into the mouth of Russian President Vladimir Putin on the wall of a bar-b-que restaurant on November 23, 2016 in Vilnius, Lithuania. Many people in the three Baltic nations of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are concerned that Russia, because Trump has expressed both admiration for Putin and doubt over defending NATO member states, will be emboldened to intervene militarily in the Baltics. Sean Gallup/Getty Trump and Putin passionately kiss in street mural Getty
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the pressure on Mr Sessions "strongly resembles a witch hunt or the times of McCarthyism, which we thought were long over in the United States as a civilised country."
Contacts with officials and lawmakers are part of any ambassador's duties, he added.
Dmitry Peskov, Vladimir Putin's spokesman, agreed with the President's statement. He told Russian state media Mr Trump's characterisation of the furore surrounding Mr Sessions was "comprehensive" and that he had "nothing to add".
Mr Peskov has used the "witch hunt" phrase beforeechoing Mr Trumpto describe the storm that followed US intelligence agencies' assessment that Russia was involved in hacking during the Presidential election.
In a press conference on Thursday evening Mr Sessions said he would not oversee any investigation into links between the Trump Presidential campaign team and Russian representatives, following reports he had spoken twice with Mr Kislyak, but did not disclose the contact to senators at his confirmation hearing.
Mr Sessions is also now accused of using political funds to travel to an event where he met Mr Kislyak, despite the White Houses claim he was acting solely in his role as a senator.
He said at the press conference: "I never had meetings with Russian operatives or Russian intermediaries about the Trump campaign."
He rejected suggestions he lied under oath during his January confirmation hearing but admitted his answer to a question by Senator Al Franken could have been more comprehensive. He added: "I should have slowed down and said, 'But I did meet one Russian official a couple of times.'"
Asked what he would have done if he discovered "anyone affiliated" with Mr Trump's campaign had been in contact with Russian representatives, Mr Sessions had said: "Im not aware of any of those activities. I have been called a surrogate at a time or two during that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians and Im unable to comment on it."
White House press secretary Sean Spicer called the controversy "partisan politics" and said Mr Sessions was "100 per cent straight with the committee".
Leading Democrats have nonetheless called for the former Alabama senator to resign. Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer said: "His integrity and independence have been questioned, it would be better for the country if he resigns."
Lawyers have ordered Mr Trumps administration to save any potential evidence of alleged Russian interference in the US election.
Instructions were sent to White House staff after Democrats in the US Senate requested the administration and security agencies to keep all material on links between Mr Trumps aides, campaign or transition team and the Kremlin.
As part of its investigation into Russias possible role in the presidential election, the Senate intelligence committee has also asked more than a dozen groups, agencies and individuals to preserve relevant records.
Additional reporting by agencies
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US Vice President Mike Pence used a private email as governor of Indiana to discuss sensitive matters - and the account was hacked - according to reports.
The Indianapolis Star said it had seen emails that showed Donald Trumps deputy had used his personal AOL account to communicate with advisers on topics ranging from security gates at the governor's residence to the state's response to terrorism attacks.
In one email, Indianas top security adviser messaged Mr Pence with an update from the FBI regarding the arrests of several men being held on terror charges.
Almost every big claim Trump made at address to Congress was false
The newspaper said the Vice Presidents account was hacked last summer. Mr Pence served as governor from January 2013 until January this year.
But the report did not make clear whether any sensitive information was compromised during the hack.
Indiana law does not prohibit public officials from using personal email accounts, the Star reported.
However the claims, if proven to be true, will come as a huge embarrassment for the Republican party, and Mr Trumps inner circle in particular, who strongly criticised Hillary Clinton for using a private email while she was secretary of state.
A statement issued by the Vice Presidents office said: "Similar to previous governors, during his time as Governor of Indiana, Mike Pence maintained a state email account and a personal email account.
As Governor, Mr Pence fully complied with Indiana law regarding email use and retention.
Recommended Trump praises FBI director who reopened Clinton email probe
Government emails involving his state and personal accounts are being archived by the state consistent with Indiana law, and are being managed according to Indianas Access to Public Records Act.
An unspecified number of emails were not released to the paper because they were deemed to be confidential.
Mr Pence called a decision last summer by the FBI not to investigate Ms Clintons use of private emails troubling.
After the FBI announced it was going to conduct a probe into the Democrat candidate last October, he said: We commend the FBI and the director on their decision to keep their word to the Congress and move forward now that theres new information.
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A student who was pronounced dead in hospital may actually have been alive at the time and only later burned to death on a funeral pyre, Indian police say.
The family of Rachna Sisodia, 21, have alleged her partner, Devesh Chaudhary, 23, raped and murdered her.
She was reportedly admitted to Sharda University Hospital in Noida, Uttar Pradesh on 23 February with a respiratory condition, causing feverish symptoms and abdominal pain.
Doctors announced her death shortly before midnight on 25 February, the Times of India reported.
CCTV shows men molesting woman on New Year's Eve in India
Ms Sisodias body was released to her husband, who carried out a traditional cremation with a small group of his own friends and family.
But when Ms Sisodias family became aware of this, they became suspicious and contacted the police, who interrupted the cremation and pulled the body from the pyre.
The corpse which was more than 70 per cent burned was turned over to forensic investigators, who found ash in the lungs and windpipe and concluded she wasn't dead as her body was being cremated.
This happens when someone is burnt alive, an official told the Hindustan Times.
The particles go inside with the breath. If a person is dead, such particles cannot reach the lungs and the windpipe. So, the doctors concluded that the woman was burnt alive on the pyre.
Such was the condition of the body that police couldnt be certain it even belonged to Ms Sisodia, but a sample of bone was sent for analysis.
Ms Sisodias uncle has filed a complaint with the police, accusing Mr Chaudhary of deliberately killing her.
Police have launched a search for him, but he remains in hiding, though he has spoken to local media by phone.
Mr Chaudhary told the Times: "Rachna had fallen ill and I tried my best to provide better medical treatment. The Greater Noida Hospital had declared her dead upon which we performed cremation."
He has maintained Ms Sisodias family are trying to frame him.
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
Meanwhile, the hospital is standing by its original verdict.
A spokesman said: "We conducted a CPR at 11pm. The blood pressure and pulse were non-functional. We did not receive any symptom of life in the body. We conducted all required medical tests before declaring her clinically dead at 11.45pm.
The patient was brought in extremely critical condition and our doctors tried their best to save her. We stick to our stand that the patient had died due to lung infection on Sunday night.
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An an airline employee accused of colluding in the assassination of Kim Jong-nam is being hunted by detectives investigating his death.
Kim Uk-il, 37, works for North Koreas national carrier Air Koryo and arrived in Malaysia around a fortnight before the assassination.
Malaysian police issued an arrest warrant for the new suspect on Friday morning as border security checks were stepped up to prevent anyone fleeing to North Korea.
Three arrests amid probe into death of North Korean leader's half-brother
Two women have so far been charged with murdering Kim, who died just minutes after the toxic VX nerve agent was wiped on his face at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
The two suspects, of Indonesian and Vietnamese nationality, were caught on CCTV appearing to attack their victim on 13 February.
As the brother-in-law of Kim Jong-un, he had been living in exile for several years and had begged the North Korean leader to spare his life after a previous assassination attempt.
Police are searching for others involved in the operation, including whoever supplied them with the VX, which is listed by the United Nations as a weapon of mass destruction.
American and South Korean intelligence officials believe the assassination was masterminded by North Korean spies and eight suspects from the secretive state have been identified by police.
Only one has been apprehended, a man named Ri Jong Chol, who was released on Friday due to insufficient evidence and set to be deported after a week in custody.
Inside the daily life in North Korea Show all 19 1 /19 Inside the daily life in North Korea Inside the daily life in North Korea People reading a newspaper at the metro station Inside the daily life in North Korea Thoughts of the leaders on the tram. They have about a dozen of these on every tram, all with different thoughts Inside the daily life in North Korea Young people training for a big upcoming festival Inside the daily life in North Korea People at the Pyongyang's annual marathon Inside the daily life in North Korea Many stars on one of the trolleys in Pyongyang Inside the daily life in North Korea An intimidating poster in a primary school in North Korea. Inside the daily life in North Korea Solar panels installed on a street lamp. Inside the daily life in North Korea A poster on the window next to one of the venues we visited in Pyongyang Inside the daily life in North Korea Kids playing football next to the Arch of Triumph. After a while tourists were allowed to join, so some of us did Inside the daily life in North Korea Class in an educational center in Pyongyang (where people over 17 years old can attend any classes they choose after school, for free) Inside the daily life in North Korea People waving at me during the Pyongyang marathon Inside the daily life in North Korea People having a great time dancing at a public park Inside the daily life in North Korea A metro driver in a metro station in Pyongyang Inside the daily life in North Korea Fireworks to mark the birthday of the Eternal President Kim Il Sung on our last night in Pyongyang Inside the daily life in North Korea My wonderful tour guide at a public park Inside the daily life in North Korea One of the parks in Pyongyang Inside the daily life in North Korea A person rowing some boats for the day at a river in Pyongyang Inside the daily life in North Korea The National War Museum Inside the daily life in North Korea Public park in Pyongyang
Khalid Abu Bakar, a police inspector, told Reuters that at least two North Korean suspects were believed to be still in Malaysia.
Officials previously said that they want to question 44-year-old Hyong Kwang Song, a secretary at the North Korean embassy in Kuala Lumpur; Kim Uk-il and an individual named Ri Ji U.
Mr Khalid said Hyong has yet to contact the police despite a request sent to the embassy, and that the Air Koryo employee is missing too.
The other four suspects are believed to have left the country on the day of the murder, and made their way back to North Korea by air, travelling via Indonesia, Dubai and Russia.
Malaysian police have requested help from Interpol to apprehend them and cancelled visa-free entry for North Koreans from 6 March as relations worsen between the two previously friendly countries.
North Korea has voiced outrage at the Malaysian investigation, and does not accept that the dead man is Kim Jong-nam.
The Malaysian foreign ministry condemned the use of VX in the murder, saying it does not produce, import or use the weapon and is in contact with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
North Korea, the US and Syria are among the countries believed to own the nerve agent, which is tightly controlled by international treaties.
The Ministry strongly condemns the use of such a chemical weapon by anyone, anywhere and under any circumstances, the Malaysian foreign ministry said. Its use at a public place could have endangered the general public.
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A supermarket shopper has been hailed an absolute champion after he paid for an elderly womans shopping when her card was declined.
Ryan ODonnell noticed the woman in front of him was having difficulty paying at the Wyoming Coles store in New South Wales so stepped in to settle her AUS$44 (27) bill.
The father-of-two told Channel 9 News he intervened because thats how my mum and dad brought me up.
Recommended Turning goodwill into good deeds through the kindness of strangers
I was just there in the grocery aisle or checkout with my kids and I saw the old lady having some trouble with the card," the 34-year-old said.
She swiped it quite a number of times and then they took her around to the front cigarette counter and got her to keep trying.
"By that stage my groceries had gone through and I went around and spoke to the young lady and said how much is it and they said $44 or something...her card kept being declined due to insufficient funds so I said Look, heres $50 just take it out of that.
The heartwarming moment was captured by fellow shopper Luke, who posted a photo to Twitter.
He wrote: This guy at Wyoming Coles who just went through the register with his two kids paid for this ladies groceries when her card kept declining
He later added: I couldn't fit this in the original tweet but she wanted to pay him back eventually and he just said Don't worry, have a good day
Mr ODonnell said the lady had wished to pay him back and was concerned about how she was going to return the money.
I said Oh look, dont worry about it its only $44, youll be right and enjoy your day. With that I walked off and I think I went and bought myself a coffee from Gloria Jeans, he told Channel 9 News.
Social media users have praised the stay-at-home dad as a "legend", good samaritan and awesome guy.
"Absolute Champion. Should be more people like him in this world. If we all knew how to give, think of how amazing life would be?" one user wrote on Twitter.
Another wrote: "What a nice person! Humans at their best."
One user said: "The world, while seemingly drowning in paranoia and hate, just keeps giving. Thanks for sharing."
Mr O'Donnell said the public reaction to his random act of kindness was "overwhelming".
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Refugee charities in northern France have issued a robust response to the Calais Mayors decision to ban food distribution in a large part of the town, vowing to continue to provide aid to refugees in spite of the mayoral decree.
Seven organisations that offer support for refugees in Calais have signed a statement expressing their determination to continue their action, stating that the reason they do this work is because the authorities do not fulfil their own obligations in terms of law and humanity.
A decree issued on Wednesday by Mayor Natacha Bouchart prohibits organisations from distributing aid in Dunes, a large industrial zone in Calais close to where the Jungle camp was located before it was demolished in October, ordering for a ban on abusive, prolonged and repeated occupants of the industrial zone. It was not clear how such a ban would be implemented.
In the joint statement signed by LAuberge des Migrants, Care4Calais, Help Refugees, RCK, Salam, Secours Catholique and Utopia 56 the charities state that their aid distributions contribute to vital needs [...] not only in terms of food, but also to supply blankets and warm clothes to avoid the possibility of death on the street.
It proceeds to state that the distributions are important because they help ensure the safety of Calais residents and traders and provide an opportunity to identify medical problems, especially for minors who are victims of the cold, as well as making it possible for refugees to receive legal advice.
The statement reads: After attempting to prevent Catholic Relief to allow the migrants present on Calais to wash, the Mayor of Calais wants to prohibit associations, on the pretext of disturbing public order, to distribute meals.
The decree produced by the Mayor is inhuman and unworthy. The associations do this work because the State and public authorities do not fulfil their own obligations in terms of laws and humanity.
The signatory organisations declare their determination to continue their action. We will continue our distributions.
Following the announcement of the ban, Annie Gavrilescu of Help Refugees told The Independent: Were publishing this response in the least provocative way possible. We just want legal and safe places where we can continue our work.
We dont want to create more animosity with the authorities or with the police. We are just trying to keep people fed but from a legal and safe place, which is obviously proving more and more difficult.
The decree specifies the industrial zone, so what were trying to do is go outside it, and trying to keep people safe outside it. But we dont know how the enforcement of this ban will take shape, so were just evermore careful.
Asked whether she was shocked by the ban, Ms Gavrilescu said: From a humanitarian perspective, its obviously shocking that a mayor is trying to prevent us from feeding children.
But from a realistic perspective, having been here a long time, the actions of this mayor are not surprising.
The ban has been issued in the area where the Jungle camp used to be located (Clare Mosely)
A volunteer at the Legal Shelter, an organisation in Calais that provides legal support to refugees, told The Independent the mayors order would not discourage refugees from coming to Calais.
This will absolutely not work for stopping people from coming to Calais. They dont come thinking that they will have food from organisations. They come for other reasons than just the distribution of food. Its just an accessory.
Its not the reason why refugees are coming to Calais, and of course they will continue to come even if there is no food distribution. There have always been people in Calais, many of them hidden without asking for any food distribution. It will never change.
If there are police controls when there are food distributions, of course people will just hide themselves more to avoid being arrested.
In 2015 they passed an order to stop people pitching tents in public spaces. Its the kind of decision they always try to take, just to try to make it more difficult for everyone. But in 20 years this has never worked.
Calais refugee camp evacuation Show all 15 1 /15 Calais refugee camp evacuation Calais refugee camp evacuation Refugees run past a fire in the makeshift migrant camp known as 'the jungle' in Calais, October 2016 AP Calais refugee camp evacuation French authorities say the closure of the slum-like camp in Calais will last approximately a week in what they describe as a "humanitarian" operation, October 2016 AP Calais refugee camp evacuation A painted message saying 'Bye Jungle' on a tent in the camp in Calais, October 2016 Getty Calais refugee camp evacuation Refugees set rubbish bins alight as a protest in the makeshift camp 'the Jungle' in Calais, France, October 2016 EPA Calais refugee camp evacuation French riot police advance through tear gas and smoke from a fire to disperse refugees throwing stones and lighting fires at the Jungle migrant camp Getty Calais refugee camp evacuation French CRS riot police secure an area on the eve of the evacuation and transfer of refugees to reception centers in France Reuters Calais refugee camp evacuation Journalists run away from smoke during clashes near a makeshift refugee camp known as 'the jungle' in Calais AP Calais refugee camp evacuation French CRS riot police secure an area on the eve of the evacuation and transfer of refugees to reception centers in Franc Reuters Calais refugee camp evacuation Migrants queue for transportation by bus to reception centres across France, from the 'Jungle' refugee camp in Calais Getty Calais refugee camp evacuation Refugees line-up to register at a processing centre in the 'jungle' near Calais, northern France, as the mass exodus from the migrant camp begins PA wire Calais refugee camp evacuation Refugees 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 Calais refugee camp evacuation French far-right Front National (FN) party's member of parliament Marion Marechal-Le Pen (L) delivers a speech next to a banner reading "They arrive in Vaucluse, no migrants in our place" as she attends a rally against the hosting of refugees in La Tour d'Aigues Getty Images Calais refugee camp evacuation French police forces secure the area near the 'Jungle' refugee camp in Calais Getty Calais refugee camp evacuation Refugees leave messages on their tents in the Jungle migrant camp Getty Calais refugee camp evacuation Refugees carry their belongings and transfer to reception centers in France
The charities will probably just move the point of distribution. If many more orders like this come into effect, we are likely to take legal action.
Sue Jex, head of UK operations for refugee support charity Care4Calais, said in a statement: We are appalled at the ban on distributing food to refugees in Calais, which deprives the most vulnerable people including unaccompanied minors of the basic human right to food.
This humanitarian crisis is far from resolved and we should not be turning our backs on those who need our support most. We would urge those in positions of authority to lift bans on food distribution, and act now to secure the lives of refugees urgently.
Reasons given for the ban in the mayoral decree include the regular presence of individuals and groups in the industrial zone for the purposes of meal distribution to migrants and concern that the continued and massive occupation in the area are of the nature that they could trouble the tranquillity, health and public security.
The mayoral decree has been put up warning that distributing food is no longer permitted in the area
Ms Bouchart stated her reasoning for the ban in a press statement on Friday, saying she would not accept seeing the economy of Calais damaged again.
In recent days, a regular and massive presence of individuals has been noted in the industrial zone of Dunes due to the distribution of meals to migrants, the statement read.
I was alerted by people who use the area, notably business bosses and people in the economic world, following tensions arising with organisations and migrants at the time of these distributions.
As I have indicated to the director of the cabinet of the Prime Minister during a meeting on 25 January, I will not accept that our economy be damaged again, just as it is beginning to arise from serious difficulties that it confronted last year.
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
The Mayor went on to say that former settlements of refugees in Calais have caused trauma for residents of the town, and asserted that she must consequently take necessary measures to avoid a repeat of the situation.
Over the months, or indeed years, everyone has been able to see all the humanity that the Calaisian population has shown despite a unique situation in France, which has been a traumatic experience for many Calaisians,she said.
Because we have suffered so much, because I have been fighting on behalf of industry players to defend the interests of Calais, I must take all necessary measures to prevent a repeat of a situation that has gone on for far too long.
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The European Parliament has voted to end visa-free travel for Americans within the EU.
It comes after the US failed to agree visa-free travel for citizens of five EU countries Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Poland and Romania as part of a reciprocity agreement. US citizens can normally travel to all countries in the bloc without a visa.
The vote urges the revocation of the scheme within two months, meaning Americans will have to apply for extra documents for 12 months after the European Commission implements a delegated act to bring the change into effect.
The Commission discovered three years ago that the US was not meeting its obligations under the reciprocity agreement but has not yet taken any legal action. The latest vote, prepared by the civil liberties committee and approved by a plenary session of parliament, gives the Commission two months to act before MEPs can consider action in the European Court of Justice.
Australia, Brunei, Japan and Canada were also failing in their obligations, but all four have lifted, or are soon to lift, any visa restrictions on travel for EU citizens.
The Commission is legally obliged to act to suspend the visa waiver for Americans, but the European Parliament or the Council of the European Union have the chance to object to the delegated act it uses to do so.
In December, MEPs pressed for the move in order to encourage Washington to play its part, according to a statement by the parliament.
But Migration Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos warned of consequences, including potential retaliation and a drop in visitor numbers precipitating substantial losses for the continents tourism industry.
Recommended I will not be used as a bargaining chip in the Brexit negotiations
Just days ago the Council said it would liberalise the visa regime for citizens of Georgia travelling into the EU.
Georgians can now, subject to final approval of the regulation, stay in any EU country for 90 days in any period of 180 days without needing a visa.
Carmelo Abela, Maltas minister for national security, said: This agreement will bring the people of Georgia and the EU closer together and will strengthen tourism and business ties. It follows the completion of the necessary reforms by Georgia, addressing document security, border management, migration and asylum.
Last month it was reported that the EU was considering the adoption of a US-style electronic travel permit scheme a move that could create a new administrative hurdle for British tourists after Brexit.
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. 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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. 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Immigration minister Robert Goodwill told Parliament the EU was discussing the possibility of introducing a version of Americas Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).
Currently foreign travellers must pay a fee of $14 (11) when they complete ESTA, an automated online system that determines their eligibility to travel to the US.
British people are now used to the US ESTA scheme and, therefore, we view with interest how the European scheme might develop and what similarities, and differences, there may be to the US scheme, Mr Goodwill said.
MEP says women 'must earn less than men' because they are 'weaker and less intelligent'
This type of scheme is generally there to help enhance security. To get to know as much as possible about the people who are intending to travel.
It isnt just flights, it could be people using ferries, or other border crossings into the European Union.
Alan Brown, an SNP member of the European Scrutiny Committee, pointed out that Leave advocates in the referendum campaign had said there would be no need for visa-like travel schemes after Brexit.
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A significant quantity of human remains has been discovered in underground chambers at a former home for unmarried mothers and their babies in Ireland.
A commission set up to investigate alleged abuse at religious-run so-called mother and baby homes has been carrying out an excavation at the former Catholic Church institution in Tuam, Co Galway.
It said it was shocked by the discovery of significant quantities of human remains in at least 17 of 20 underground chambers being excavated in recent weeks.
Recommended Polls close in Northern Ireland assembly elections
A small number of remains were recovered for the purpose of analysis, the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes said.
These remains involved a number of individuals with age-at-death ranges from approximately 35 foetal weeks to 2-3 years.
Radiocarbon dating of the samples recovered suggest that the remains date from the time frame relevant to the operation of the mother and baby home.
The Tuam home operated from 1925 to 1961.
A number of the samples are likely to date from the 1950s, according to the commission.
The Commission is shocked by this discovery and is continuing its investigation into who was responsible for the disposal of human remains in this way, it said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the commission has asked that the relevant State authorities take responsibility for the appropriate treatment of the remains.
A coroner has been notified.
Irelands Childrens Minister Katherine Zappone TD described the discovery as very sad and disturbing news.
It was not unexpected as there were claims about human remains on the site over the last number of years, she said.
Up to now we had rumours. Now we have confirmation that the remains are there, and that they date back to the time of the mother and baby home, which operated in Tuam from 1925 to 1961.
The minister urged a sensitive and respectful response to the discovery.
The commission was set up two years ago by the Irish Government to probe state sanctioned, religious-run institutions used to house pregnant mothers.
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
It was charged with investigating high mortality rates at mother and baby homes across several decades of the 20th century, the burial practises at these sites and also secret and illegal adoptions and vaccine trials on children.
It is thought about 35,000 unmarried mothers spent time in one of 10 homes run by religious orders in Ireland.
An inquiry was ordered after massive national and international focus on the story of the Sisters of the Bon Secours in Tuam, where the remains of 796 infants are believed to be buried.
Outside of Tuam, three other mother and baby homes have little angels plots believed to hold the remains of another 3,200 babies and infants.
They are Sean Ross Abbey, Tipperary where the story of Philomena Lee began Bessborough, Co Cork, and Castlepollard, Co Westmeath.
Infant mortality rates ranged from 30-50 per cent in some of the homes in the 1930s and 1940s.
Joan Burton, Labour Party TD, said the findings at Tuam are truly gruesome and no doubt deeply upsetting to anyone associated with the Tuam home.
The grim discovery also highlights the important work of local historian Catherine Corless in bringing this case to light, she added.
It now appears as though these children were interred in some kind of mass grave, possibly without normal funeral rights, and maybe even without their wider families having been made aware.
There have also been allegations that there may have been similar instances with other mother and baby homes around the country.
I believe the government should resource the commission so that all such allegations can be included.
Ms Burton added: It is now incumbent upon the Catholic Church to assist in whatever way they can, so that the truth should be set out in relation to these matters.
PA
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Natos most senior British officer has claimed that alleged Russian cyber attacks could be deemed an act of aggression and trigger the military alliances principle of collective defence.
General Sir Adrian Bradshaw, the Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe, said allegations of interference in American and European elections and an international disinformation campaign could cause the definition of an attack to be widened.
Natos founding treaty states that an armed attack against on or more [members] shall be considered an attack against them and allow allies to take any action deemed necessary in self defence.
General Bradshaw said the article, number five, would come into effect when its declared to be.
It is a political decision, but it is not out of the question that aggression, blatant aggression, in a domain other than conventional warfare might be deemed to be Article Five, he told The Times.
The measure was used for the first time after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York and Nato has also invoked collective defence over the Ukrainian and Syrian civil wars.
When the treaty was drawn up, Natos primary aim was to counter the risk of the Soviet Union expanding through Europe.
Nato has increased the troops deployed along its eastern flank (Getty) (NATALIA DOBRYSZYCKA/AFP/Getty Images)
But almost 70 years on, the alliances focus has expanded to hybrid warfare, including cyber attacks and hacking, which has sparked the creation of a dedicated Nato online defence force.
General Bradshaw said Nato has declared cyber as a domain in warfare, alongside air, maritime, special forces and land.
Its a growing area, he told an event held by the Council on Foreign Relations in January.
It is hard to imagine any future conflict that doesnt include a substantial cyber element.
Its certainly a big part of our potential threat from both Russia and from Islamist extremists.
The commander, who is to be replaced by Lieutenant General Sir James Everard later this month, said Russia posed a hybrid threat to Nato members.
Russian military activity in Crimea Show all 11 1 /11 Russian military activity in Crimea Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian13-ap_1.jpg AP Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian9-ap.jpg AP Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian12-ap.jpg AP Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian11-rtp.jpg Reuters Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian10-afpgt.jpg AFP/Getty Images Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian7-rt.jpg Reuters Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian6-afpgt.jpg AFP/Getty Images Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian8-rt_1.jpg Reuters Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian-navy1-rt.jpg Reuters Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian4-ap_1.jpg AP Russian military activity in Crimea Ukraine-russian3-ap.jpg AP
Its not just the threat of overt military attack, but its a raft of other measures, including covert, paramilitary, and non-military activities, some of which will be coordinated by the intelligence arms of Russia, General Bradshaw added.
And we as Nato need to have our antenna tuned to the signs that this sort of hostile activity is going on.
He accused the Kremlin of showing a proclivity to disobey the rules of international relations with its military incursion into Crimea and alleged backing for rebels in eastern Ukraine.
We need to put in place thoroughly effective and convincing deterrence so that everybody knows where the red lines are, General Bradshaw said.
We are effectively building and sustaining military capability so that we never have to use it.
His comments came amid an ongoing storm over Russias alleged interference in the US election in favour of Donald Trump.
The President has defended Russia against his own intelligence agencies allegations of involvement in the Democratic National Committee cyber attacks, and other leaks and fake news spread to damage Hillary Clinton.
Jeff Sessions steps aside from Russia investigations
We assess Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered an influence campaign in 2016 aimed at the US presidential election, said a report released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
Russias goals were to undermine public faith in the US democratic process, denigrate Secretary Clinton and harm her electability and potential presidency.
We further assess Putin and the Russian Government developed a clear preference for President-elect Trump.
European intelligence agencies have warned attempts could also be made to influence upcoming votes in France, the Netherlands and Germany.
A recent report by the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee said the rise of fake news emanating from Russia was also a concern, questioning the impartiality of state-owned outlets Russia Today and Sputnik.
The Kremlin has denied all allegations of attempting to influence international elections or waging a disinformation campaign, while accusing Nato and the West of engaging in a propaganda war against it and warmongering with increasing military deployments and drills in eastern Europe.
When contacted for a comment on General Bradshaws remarks, the Russian embassy in London referred The Independent to its tweets.
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A right-wing politician provoked a furious response after saying women should earn less money than men because they are weaker", "smaller" and "less intelligent.
Polish MEP Janusz Korwin-Mikke, who has repeatedly courted controversy with his opinions, was speaking to a near-empty European Parliament during a gender pay-gap debate.
The Eurosceptic started by explaining that no women are ranked in the top 800 of a physics olympiad in Poland.
Spanish socialist MEP Iratxe Garcia Perez was a little confused when Mr Korwin-Mikke talked about chess EPTV (EPTV)
The 74-year-old then said there are no women in the top 100 world chess players.
Of course women must earn less than men because they are weaker, they are smaller, they are less intelligent, they must earn less, thats all, said Mr Korwin-Mikke.
Spanish socialist MEP Iratxe Garcia Perez can be seen grimacing at Mr Korwin-Mikkes chess explanation.
She responded: According to what you're saying and your theory I wouldn't have the right to be here as a member of parliament.
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"I know you're very upset and very concerned about the fact we women can represent citizens on an equal footing with you.
I think I need to defend European women against men like you.
Mr Korwin-Mikke, the creator of the Coalition for the Renewal of the Republic Liberty and Hope, who was born into Nazi-occupied Warsaw, has previously referred to black people as n******.
He once told The Observer newspaper that womens attitudes are influenced by the men they sleep with, because semen penetrates the tissue.
Mr Korwin-Mikke has previously been fined for using racist language at a debate.
Full video:
"European Parliament President Antonio Tajani has started an investigation which may result in sanctions against Polish MEP Janusz Korwin-Mikke for sexist remarks made during the plenary session on Wednesday night," said a European Parliament spokesman.
"Penalties range from a reprimand to a fine and temporary suspension."
London Labour MEP Seb Dance, who last month held up a sign accusing Nigel Farage of being a liar, told The Independent: The tenets of free speech and parliamentary privilege are important, but so too is respect for the right for everyone to be treated equally. He (Mr Korwin-Mikke) undermined the value and worth of his colleagues because of their gender and in so doing demeaned not just them but himself. He has crossed a line and must lose the right to be taken seriously on anything.
Too often, nationalists and extremists hide behind free speech when spewing out their hatred and bile. They must be held to account and there must be consequences.
If theres a rule thats been broken, he should be punished accordingly. If not, then its the chairs discretion who gets called to speak - there should be an agreement to exclude him.
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The looming defeat of Isis in northern Syria is pushing the countrys six-year civil war into a new and dangerous phase as warring parties turn on each other, analysts have warned.
The battle to defeat jihadis has made uneasy allies out of forces backed by countries including Britain, the US, Russia, Turkey and Iran but as victorious groups fill territory the so-called Islamic State once controlled, old enemies are coming face-to-face with deadly consequences.
Fighting has erupted along converging frontlines between Bashar al-Assads army, opposition groups and Kurdish forces around the northern city of al-Bab, where the US-led coalition and Russian air force have been providing air support to allies.
Turkish-backed rebels are fighting Kurdish groups supported by the US-led coalition (Reuters)
Jean-Marc Rickli, a research fellow at King's College London and the Geneva Centre for Security Policy said the shared interest in eradicating Isis is not enough to quash long-standing rivalries.
Isis is about to collapse but what next? he asked.
Once Isis has lost the fight, the other coalitions that were formed to beat it will dissolve into open conflicts on the ground.
The skirmishes risk drawing in international actors backing ground forces on opposite sides. In one incident this week, Russia is accused of hitting US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in villages taken from Isis, causing several casualties.
Lt-Gen Stephen Townsend, the commander of Operation Inherent Resolve, said several casualties were reported after bombing just two miles away from American troops. Some quick calls were made through our deconfliction channels and the Russians acknowledged and stopped bombing there, he added.
The Kremlin denied striking the positions as part of its campaign supporting Assad, saying the US provided it with coordinates as part of communications set up to avoid international conflict in Syrias crowded airspace.
Meanwhile, fighting has erupted between opposition groups backed by Turkey as part of its Operation Euphrates Shield and the Kurdish-led SDF, which is supported by the US.
The US is backing the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which has had huge success against Isis but is regarded as a terrorist group by Turkey (AFP/Getty Images)
At least seven fighters from both sides were killed in battles and shelling, the UK-Based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported.
Both rebel alliances have been battling Isis but Turkey also considers the Kurdish Peoples Protection Units (YPG) a terrorist group and has made its intention to push it back from border areas clear.
In efforts to create a buffer zone between the two sides, the Manbij Military Council claimed Kurdish fighters would turn over frontline villages to the Syrian army.
But the deal, brokered by Russia, has met with resistance from SDF soldiers reluctant to withdraw from territory they won from Isis.
Dr Rickli told The Independent completely ludicrous situations were emerging seeing rebel groups backed by the US government fighting each other.
This is the problem of using proxies, he added. As you get closer to reaching your primary objective, the secondary ones come in.
Because the Americans have relied on so many different groups they are now in a difficult situation where they have to decide who to prioritise.
The converging frontlines near al-Bab between parties in the Syrian civil war. Territory controlled by Isis is seen in black, the Syrian government in red, Turkey-backed opposition in blue/green, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic forces in yellow and Kurdish territory occupied by government forces in orange (Liveuamap)
Both the CIA and Pentagon ran programmes to support vetted opposition forces at the start of the civil war, but attempts to train groups abroad and redeploy them in Syria failed when an entire unit was seized by al-Qaeda.
The embarrassment provoked a tactical shift to arm and support established anti-Isis groups already on the ground, with a limited role for American special forces and military advisers.
The US-led coalitions most prominent ally is the SDF, which has seen huge success retaking former jihadi strongholds including Jarablus, but the predominantly Kurdish group is the enemy of other Syrian rebels formerly supported by the US.
Many are now being backed by Turkey, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made it clear his priority is to reverse the growth of the de-facto autonomous region of Rojava along the border, which has been administered by Kurdish groups since 2013.
Haid Haid, an associate fellow in the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House, said that with Isis driven out of the region, no side could move advance without clashing with each another.
Fighting will increase unless theres some kind of deal between Turkey, the US and SDF to find a solution, which I think is unlikely at this point, he told The Independent.
The tension is there and armed groups on the ground are ready to fight, but the question is in what direction and how.
Mr Haid said that although eradicating Isis has been a common goal, the main aim of all sides is to gain more territory, making battles unavoidable.
In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij Show all 11 1 /11 In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij Women and children celebrating after being freed from Isis in Manbij, Syria, on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij A man cuts the beard of a civilian who was freed from Isis by the SDF in Manbij on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij Women carry newborn babies while running after being freed from Isis in Manbij, Syria, on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij A woman freed from Isis hugs an SDF fighter in Manbij on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij A woman adding her veil to a pile of niqabs burning in Manbij, Syria, after being freed from Isis on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij Children celebrating on top of a lorry after being freed from Isis in Manbij, Syria, on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij A man and child freed from Isis by the SDF in Manbij on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij A woman carrying her children walks towards SDF fighters after being freed from Isis in Manbij, Syria, on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij A woman and child freed from Isis in Manbij, Syria, on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij An SDF fighter kisses a crying man who was freed from Isis in Manbij, Syria, on 12 August Reuters In pictures: Civilians freed from Isis in Manbij Hundreds of civilians freed from Isis in Manbij, Syria, on 12 August Reuters
He warned of an emerging proxy war between opposition factions variously backed by the US-led coalition and Turkey, and pro-Assad forces supported by Russia, Iran and the Lebanese Shia Islamist group Hezbollah.
Attempts by international supporters to deescalate fighting may fail as the focus on Isis gives way to the original divisions of the Syrian civil war, which a new round of talks in Geneva have failed to overcome.
The position on the ground has turned into people being in favour or against Assad so the moderate voice is less and less important after six years of fighting, Dr Rickli warned.
He drew comparisons to the Bosnian civil war, where European nations offered massive funding for reconstruction efforts and EU membership in exchange for democracy and a lasting ceasefire.
But in the muddied waters of Syria, the way forward is less clear.
What are the hopes of Syria? Dr Rickli asked. Who is willing to provide money?
There is no carrot, no stick and worse than that, some groups on the ground are benefiting from the chaos because it gives them money and power.
They have absolutely no interest in settling the conflict.
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Two transgender people were packed in sacks, thrashed with sticks and tortured to death, according to human rights activists.
Police allegedly killed 35-year-old Amna, and Meeno, 26, both Pakistanis, after raiding a house in Saudi Arabia and arresting 35 transgender people.
Activists in Pakistan are demanding clarification from Saudi Arabia over the deaths and the 22 people reportedly still in custody.
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We want information because right now this is a very confusing situation and many in the transgender community in Saudi Arabia are feeling delicate and scared, said Qamar Naseem, a feminism and social rights activist from the Blue Veins group, speaking to The Independent.
They are not treated fairly even by criminal law in Saudi Arabia, and its not just people from Pakistan, its people from different parts of the world.
Gender fluid people are treated badly, sometimes flogged, and if someone is arrested on the same law for a second time they can be executed.
Mr Naseem said he and TransAction Pakistan president Farzana Jan were told by a transgender contact in Saudi Arabia about the raid.
They were allegedly arrested for cross-dressing and for having same-sex relationships in the capital of Riyadh.
Homosexuality is punishable by death while any sex-change surgery is illegal.
Mr Qamar said the group were hosting a Guru Chela Chalan gathering, a Pakistani ceremony celebrated in the transgender community, in which they choose their 'guru' leader.
Eleven were reportedly arrested after paying a 150,000 riyals fine (33,000) while 22 were kept in custody.
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He said the two victims, from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa in Parkistan, were kicked and beaten in bags.
The Travel Agents Association of Pakistan was reportedly told last year not to grant visas to transgender people planning the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia last year insisted the United Nations keeps LGBT rights out of its development goals.
"Amnesty International has been unable to verify this information, but urges the Saudi Arabian authorities to comply with their duty to conduct a thorough and independent investigation into any allegation of torture and extra-judicial executions and bring those suspected of criminal responsibility, including state agents, before ordinary courts in proceedings that meet international standards of fair trial and without the recourse to the death penalty," said an Amnesty International spokesman.
"The authorities must diligently investigate any possible discriminatory motive in these crimes, including discrimination on the basis of gender identity and expression."
The Independent has contacted the House of Saud and Pakistans Ministry of Human Rights for further comment.
Update. A graphic which previously accompanied this report included Lithuania among a list of countries in which homosexuality remains a criminal offence. In fact, homosexuality was decriminalised in Lithuania in the 1990s. We are glad to clarify matters.
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A US Congressional delegation will visit Israel tomorrow to look into the option of relocating the American embassy to Jerusalem.
President Donald Trump has previously said he would "love" to see the embassy moved from its current location in Tel Aviv. He made the comments during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, and added: "We're looking at that very, very strongly, we're looking at that with great care, and we'll see what happens."
Critics have said the move, which Mr Trump first raised during his Presidential campaign, would damage the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
US officials and Israeli Foreign Ministry sources had said that the incoming US ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, could be based in Jerusalem while the official embassy building remained in Tel Aviv.
Israel annexed east Jerusalem in a move not recognised by the international community in the 1967 Six Day War, and both the Israelis and Palestinians claim the city as their capital.
Almost all countries diplomatic missions to Israel are located in Tel Aviv. The proposed move has been strongly criticised by Palestinian Authority officials including President Mahmoud Abbas, liberal Israeli groups, and the US allies throughout the Arab and wider world.
More follows
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It is purported to be the happiest country in the world, but if there is one subject guaranteed to flare tensions in the Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan, its meat.
It is okay because the animal was not killed in Bhutan, explains my guide Kinley, when I question whether it is socially acceptable for us to be sitting down to a chicken curry in a country where butchering animals for consumption is outright banned. This reasoning might seem bizarre, but it goes a long way to explain the complex issues surrounding the consumption of meat in Bhutan.
Buddhism teaches that it is wrong to kill animals, which are seen to be part of the divine creation. But while this teaching is not taken particularly seriously in other Buddhist majority countries outside monastic circles, it is law in Bhutan, where Buddhist leaders enjoy an influential voice in public policy.
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Problem is, most Bhutanese even many monks enjoy eating meat. So much, in fact, that Bhutan is the highest consumer of meat per capita in South Asia. As it is not illegal to consume meat in Bhutan, its all imported. Yet Bhutans meat-eating community is increasingly under threat from the wrath of the nations vegetarian right a growing movement led by religious figures that are calling for sanctions on the importation, sale and consumption of meat on religious grounds, despite Buddha himself well documented to have eaten meat.
Bhutan is renowned for its rich Buddhist culture (Getty)
This hardline approach jars a little in the context of a country that measures its success not by economics, but by a Gross National Happiness Index. And its true that during my 10-day visit, I found Bhutanese people to be among the worlds most welcoming. Its easy to see why Bhutan has become such a bucket list destination: the famous Tigers Nest monastery perched on a misty mountaintop near Paro looks just as magical in the flesh as it does in the pictures, and the phallus-emblazoned houses of the Punakha district an ode to a monk known as the Divine Madman for his, er, unconventional methods of enlightening women have to be seen to be believed.
But if you like your meat, eating it does feel a little more political here. I felt a bit put off consuming anything non-veggie despite my guide having no issue with it.
The Tigers Nest monastery has become the most recognisable symbol of Bhutan (Getty)
To illustrate just how seriously the vegetarian right takes the issue, in 2015, the announcement of government plans to build a series of plants to process imported meat (in an effort to control quality and hygiene) outraged them enough that the Zhung Dratshang Bhutans central monastic body ultimately called for the projects to be halted.
Last year, Bhutans Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority moved to appease religious leaders by proposing a ban on the sale of meat during the holy first and fourth Bhutanese months, with heavy penalties for commercial vendors caught storing or selling meat during these sacred periods.
Some towns, including all hotels in the northern district of Bumthang, have since signed agreements among themselves to stop storing or selling meat during the auspicious months, while also agreeing to submit to surprise inspections from vegetarian committees.
Imagine my surprise, then, when I spotted a group of farmers slicing up a cow in broad daylight as my tour bus bumped along a pretty country road en route to a rural homestay. The cow must have died of old age, Kinley shrugged when I queried what was going on. They harvest the meat before it spoils. Now, I'm not a huge carnivore, but as someone who enjoys a juicy burger now and then, I sympathise with anyone who has to wait for a cow to die to enjoy a bit of steak.
The gorgeous Haa district of Western Bhutan (Wiki Commons) (Wikicommons)
In Bhutan, however, it is easy for tourists, at least to go without meat. Never, except perhaps in southern India, have I found it such a delight to go vego than I did here. Tourist meals in Bhutan are typically served banquet-style, and while theres usually at least one meat dish, the vegetarian options are the highlight.
The local red rice is as healthy as it is deliciously nutty, fresh organic vegetables burst with flavour, and the buckwheat momos (dumplings) served in Western Bhutans Haa district are next-level good. It is said that a Bhutanese meal isnt complete without a serving of ema datshi or chilli cheese (literally hot green chillies cooked with local cheese), and I couldnt resist sampling this eye-wateringly spicy dish at least once a day. The key flavouring agent in Bhutanese cuisine, chilli, poses a greater challenge for many tourists than the availability of meat.
Favourite local dish ema datshi literally just chillies and cheese (Wiki Commons) (Wikicommons)
But that said, it has been a somewhat bland culinary start to 2017 for locals in Bhutan. The government has been forced to rethink a 2016 ban on the import of toxic chillies from India that has seen the price of local chillies skyrocket. Poor families without the land to grow their own have thus faced flavourless mealtimes thanks to reduced access to their key source for taste.
The challenges of maintaining a self-sufficient chilli crop is just one of many hurdles Bhutan has faced while ploughing ahead to become the worlds first wholly organic country by 2020, an ambitious goal in an era when youth in developing nations like Bhutan are more reluctant to follow in the farming footsteps of their parents.
Despite its status as a poster child for sustainable development, Bhutan has not been left untouched by the effects of climate change either, with erratic weather over recent years having left some farmers struggling to reap a viable harvest without the use of chemicals.
While I thoroughly enjoyed being a pseudo-vegetarian during my trip to Bhutan, Im grateful my choice to sink my chops into a juicy piece of meat sometimes isnt under threat from a hardline vegetarian sect. If Buddha was okay with eating meat, surely Bhutans meat-lovers deserve a bit of slack?
Travel essentials
Getting there
British Airways (0870 850 9 850; ba.com) flies to Delhi from about 480 return, from where connecting flights are available to Paro with Druk Air (00 975 8 271 856; drukair.com.bt) from about 445 return. UK citizens transiting via Delhi also need to obtain a double-entry Indian visa (in.vfsglobal.co.uk).
Staying there
Tourist hotels run from the quaint and comfortable (such as Gangtey Palace in Paro; hotel.bt) to sheer luxury (such as the Aman groups five Amankora lodges scattered throughout the country; amankora.com). Many organised tours include at least one night at a basic village homestay.
Visiting there
All travellers to Bhutan need to book a package with either an international or local tour operator. British passport holders require a visa to visit Bhutan, which is issued upon arrival applications are submitted in advance by the tour operator. The writer travelled with G Adventures (gadventures.com).
More information
tourism.gov.bt
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Mixed Fleet staff have been recruited since 2010, at the conclusion of the last big cabin crew dispute, and now make up around 30 per cent of Heathrow crew. They work on a range of domestic, European and long-haul routes.
They are employed on less favourable terms than longer-serving cabin crew. The union says their earnings constitute poverty pay. British Airways rejects this, and says its pay rates are competitive with the industry.
Just before Christmas it appeared a deal had been reached, when BA made an improved pay offer. But in a ballot conducted just before the New Year, cabin crew rejected the deal. Since then Unite members have taken 26 days of industrial action.
A BA spokesperson said: Once again we will be able to fly all customers to their destinations, despite industrial action by Mixed Fleet Unite. We will operate a full schedule at Gatwick and London City airports as well as the vast majority of our Heathrow schedule.
We will merge a very small number of Heathrow services, and all affected customers will be rebooked to alternative flights.The airline will 'wet-lease' aircraft and crew from other carriers to cover gaps in the schedule.
In addition, over the first four days of the strike, British Airways expected to cancel 14 flights out of a total of 3,300 departures corresponding to 0.4 per cent of the airline's total schedule.
During the most recent four-day strike, BA flew its normal timetable with no wet-leased aircraft.
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A Unite spokesman said: A key part of the industrial action has been raising awareness among passengers and the public over the issue of low pay and the effect it has on British Airways mixed fleet cabin crew. Weve seen the issue raised in Parliament and received a positive response from the public.
In addition there has been unseen disruption to the airline which has been forced to put additional time and resources into trying to minimise the impact and cost of industrial action.
The union claims the current pay levels are jeopardising safety. Two-thirds of Mixed Fleet cabin crew who responded to a union survey said they had reported for duty when they were unfit to fly. They are paid a 3-per-hour elapsed hourly rate when on duty, and said they could not afford to be off sick and lose the allowances involved.
Five out of six Mixed Fleet cabin crew reported that their financial circumstances since joining BA have caused stress and depression.
Some staff said they had been sleeping in cars between flights because they could not afford the petrol to get home.
British Airways strike: what it's about, and the possible effects
Ryanair has offered passengers on BAs sister airline, Vueling, rescue fares to and from Barcelona.
Vueling, a Spanish budget carrier, is cutting routes from Leeds-Bradford and Newcastle to the Catalan capital this month. Ryanair is offering 9.99 one-way fares to affected travellers but to Girona airport, 60 miles from Barcelona.
Robin Kiely of Ryanair said: Customers should book quickly because these fares will be gone very soon just like Vuelings Leeds and Newcastle routes to Barcelona.
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The auxiliary power unit (a small engine that sits near the tail) was broken, which was inconvenient because it is the usual method for starting the real engines. By the time some reliable ground power was found, slots had slipped and we arrived at the Sussex airport an hour behind schedule. Which, on the scale of disruption endured by some passengers this week, was almost imperceptible.
You may have read about the very expensive mouse that checked in for a trip to California, by boarding a British Airways Boeing 777 at Heathrow, destination San Francisco. A new plane had to be found, and the passengers were over four hours late leaving London. It was a narrow squeak, but the captain managed to make up time over the Atlantic meaning that the plane arrived a whisker under four hours late, triggering a lower rate of compensation for the passengers: 300 rather than 600. Hard cheese.
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I imagine the German airline, Air Berlin, will face some interesting claims as a result of last Saturdays flight from Dusseldorf to Cancun in Mexico.
The Airbus was flying off the Florida coast when the crew decided to divert due to suspected smoke on the flight deck and in the cabin. Don the oxygen masks and land first, ask questions later is wisely the order of the day in such circumstances. The nearest suitable runway was at Daytona Beach, so that was where they went on what the airline describes quaintly as an out-of-course landing.
After a safe arrival, it became clear that the passengers problems were only just beginning.
Those European delay and disruption rules also cover customer care, and specify that for overnight stays they must be provided with hotel rooms. But theory and practice are different things.
For a start, as none of the passengers were expecting to visit the US, few of them were in possession of an Esta electronic permission to apply for entry to America. That should not constitute an insurmountable problem, because the practice in such circumstances is to revert to the old analogue days when everyone filled out a green form, known as an I-94W.
Unfortunately it also happened to be spring break in Daytona Beach, as well as Daytona 500 race weekend. Every room in town, and for miles around, was occupied (or at least booked; my limited experience of the February tradition where college students go wild suggests that the guests were probably out partying until dawn). So the unfortunate 217 Air Berlin passengers were obliged to spend the night in the terminal of one of Floridas smaller airports.
The airline says they were provided with meals and hygiene products and had access to internet and television. With that sort of night in prospect, who wants to be sipping a sundowner on Mexicos Riviera Maya?
It was not until Sunday afternoon that a replacement plane arrived to convey them to Mexico, in the shape of an American Airlines jet flown down from Philadelphia.
What more could possibly go wrong? Well, Daytona Beach is a small airport with limited equipment. Since the Airbus A330 is not an aircraft type normally on the ground handlers radar, it lacked the right equipment to open and unload the cargo holds. So while they flew south, their cases stayed put. Only when the plane was mended could it finally convey the luggage to Cancun.
The episode will already have cost Air Berlin hundreds of thousands of euros in flight operations, but it remains to be seen how much the German airline will pay out in compensation. My sole experience with an Air Berlin late-night cancellation from Belfast left me 260 out of pocket, because the airline refused to pay for a hotel and a replacement flight. Then the carrier successfully stonewalled a claim for the stipulated 250 compensation for years, until the statute of limitations kicked in.
So let me wish the delayed passengers good luck which in German, I believe, is Gluck auf. Which seems, on reflection, to resonate with Air Berlins attitude to me.
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The now-traditional summer season of wrecked air travel plans begins early in March this year. Tens of thousands of passengers are likely to be grounded by the first strike of the year by discontented French air-traffic controllers, which runs from 6 to 10 March.
The industrial action starting on Monday involves members of a small union, ICNA, working at air-traffic control centres in Bordeaux, Brest and Aix-en-Provence.
The controllers are angry over a range of issues from roster patterns to pay. They say they are overstretched and under-rewarded, which has led union members to experience reduced self-esteem.
Our German colleagues who work less than us and earn much more do not seem to be affected by this feeling, says the union.
It is telling members: You have the opportunity to send a strong message to our administration: We do not tolerate injustice.
Eurocontrol in Brussels says the Brest and Bordeaux control centres will be affected from 5am on Monday until 7pm on Friday, with the action in the south of France running from 5am on Tuesday until 5am on Friday.
Flights serving the main Paris airports Charles de Gaulle and Orly are likely to be affected, along with Toulouse, Beauvais and Nantes. A much wider impact will be felt, though, on services overflying France, including links from the UK and Italy, Switzerland and Spain.
Plans are already in hand to re-route many flights away from France, but changing flight plans puts extra pressure on busy areas such as southern England, the eastern Atlantic and northern Spain.
Some flights between Britain and the Canary Islands will use so-called Tango routes, which involves giving France a wide berth; extra radio and navigation equipment is obligatory for these oceanic routings, which also take longer and burn more fuel.
To exacerbate the problems for airlines and their passengers, the strike coincides with two long-planned projects: a re-sectorisation programme at Zurich that will reduce capacity in eastern Switzerland by 20 per cent on Monday and 10 per cent thereafter; and a large-scale military exercise called Real Thaw, which is taking place in Portuguese airspace.
Eurocontrol has asked air forces in other nations to moderate the amount of airspace that is closed for military flying.
The French civil aviation authority, the DGCA, mandates a certain level of service to be maintained during strikes. It is expected to tell airlines 24 hours in advance of each days strike what proportion of their services must be cancelled.
In addition, there are often short-notice delays and groundings because of the walk-out.
The worst-affected airline could be easyJet 60 per cent of its flights normally touch French airspace. A spokesperson for easyJet said: Like all airlines, our flights to and from French airports, as well as those flying in French airspace, might be affected.
Should strike action go ahead, easyJet will advise affected customers of any flight changes via email and SMS.
Monarch told The Independent: Whilst we anticipate that there may be disruption, we plan to operate a full schedule.
Thomas Reynaert, managing director of the aviation forum, Airlines For Europe, has condemned striking air-traffic controllers for infringing on peoples rights and destroying their holiday plans.
Passengers are not entitled to cash compensation for delays and cancellations. But airlines must provide meals and accommodation to disrupted travellers, and in the event of cancellations re-book them on the first available flight even if it is operated by a rival carrier.
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Government spin doctors are busy planting stories that the nice caring Prime Minister who wants all Europeans here to live happily ever after amongst us has been stopped by the wicked witch of Berlin who wont grant reciprocal rights to Brits in Europe.
Nothing could be further from the truth. To begin with, Angela Merkel cannot dictate to other EU countries what their rules should be for the registration of foreigners. For example, in Spain there are 300,000 British citizens who are empadronados registered on the electoral rolls as full time residents in Spain.
But British embassy officials in Madrid reckon there are up to one million Brits who own a property in Spain, have retired there, come and go doing business, or who study in the country.
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October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected 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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 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news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images
Do they all get permanent resident rights? And if so, who lists them and checks on their eligibility?
That is the point every official and politician politely makes in Berlin when asked about reciprocal citizenship rights.
Please tell us how, they say, how many Germans, let alone other EU citizens there are in the UK?
And Theresa May cannot answer this question as we have no register of foreigners and no identity card system as is normal in all other EU member states and Switzerland.
We dont count people in or people out. So the puzzled Berlin advisor to Merkel on these matters has to report: The Brits cannot give us any figures, they have no lists, they dont know if European citizens have been there for one week, one year, or more than a decade. And now they are blaming you, Frau Chancellor, because of the Brexit vote has exposed the failings of British administration.
Government suffers defeat in Lords over plan to begin Brexit negotiations
The question of Europeans chez nous and Brits over there is also unbalanced. If there are up to one million Brits in Spain, we do not know how many Spanish there are in Britain. We know there are nearly 900,000 Poles here but the number of British citizens living full time in Poland is not a tenth of that number.
So the problem is a bilateral Madrid-London or London-Warsaw one and not a matter for Angela Merkel to decide.
EU capitals are also aware of the extraordinary complexity of applying for British residency with the now legendary 85-page form to fill in and Home Office jobsworths gleefully rejecting European spouses of British citizens who have lived here for years, raised British children, but fail on some minor bureaucratic point.
The Migration Observatory reckons it will take 140 years to process the up to 3.5 million EU citizens here who may seek permanent residence.
So blaming Berlin, the favourite game of eurosceptics for decades, wont convince a single German politician until we can tell them who is here. We cannot do that and Theresa May should take unilateral action to say Europeans are welcome to stay.
For once, a unilateral British action on a sensitive EU issue would get a warm response.
Denis MacShane is the former Minister of Europe and a senior advisor at Avisa Partners, Brussels.
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After Isis captured Mosul in June 2014, people in Baghdad waited in terror to see if its fighters would go on to storm the capital. There was very little to stop them as the Iraqi army in northern Iraq broke up and fled south. Many government ministers and MPs rushed to the airport and took refuge in Jordan. When an American military delegation arrived to review the defences of Baghdad, they were told by a senior Iraq official to look to see which ministers had put fresh sandbags around their ministries. Those that have done so like myself will stay and fight; where you see old sandbags it means the minister doesnt care because he is intending to run.
Two and a half years later, it is Isis fighters who are battling street-to-street to hold onto west Mosul, their last big stronghold in Iraq, in the face of multiple assaults by a revived Iraqi army backed by US airpower. The last road out of the city to the west was cut by Iraqi government forces on 1 March and they have also captured one of the half-ruined bridges over the Tigris River that bisects Mosul, which they are planning to repair using US-supplied pontoons. Iraqi military units backed by some 50 US airstrikes a day are getting close to the complex of buildings that used to house the government headquarters in the centre of the city.
Iraqi officials and officers announce only advances and victories, reports that often turn out to be premature or untrue. But there is no doubt that the Iraqi security services are winning the struggle for Mosul, though fighting could go on for a long time amid the close-packed buildings and narrow, twisting alleyways. Already shelling and airstrikes are causing heavy casualties among families sheltering in cellars or beneath the stairs in their houses.
UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 5 November 2022 Demonstrators with placards calling for a General Election march near the Houses of Parliament AFP via Getty Images 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 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images
The battle will probably continue for a long time, but the capture of Mosul looks inevitable and will be a calamitous defeat for Isis. When its few thousand fighters seized the city and defeated a government garrison of 60,000 in 2014, it portrayed its victory as a sign that God was on its side. But the same logic works in reverse and today all Isis can offer its followers is a series of hard-fought defeats and withdrawals.
The crucial question concerns whether or not the fall of Mosul means the effective end of the caliphate declared by its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. The caliphates significance was that at one time it ruled territory with a population of five or six million people in Iraq and Syria, where it sought to establish a truly Islamic State. It is this dream or nightmare that is now being shattered. Isis may still control some territory in Iraq and more in Syria, but it has nothing like the human and material resources it enjoyed at the height of its power when it controlled territory stretching from the Iranian border almost to the Mediterranean coast.
Isis still has some strengths, including experienced and skilful commanders leading a core of fanatical fighters numbering as many as 4,000 in west Mosul alone. They have already killed 500 and wounded 3,000 of the Iraqi security services best soldiers in the struggle for east Mosul, which was meant to last a few weeks and instead took three months. There is a no reason the same thing should not happen in the west of the city where the warren of streets gives the defence an advantage. Foreign fighters know they cannot blend into the population and escape, so they have no choice but to fight to the death.
Iraqi forces launch push to retake western Mosul from IS
Other factors work in favour of Isis: it is fighting a vast array of enemies forced into an unwilling coalition against Isis because they fear and hate it just a little bit more than they hate and fear each other. As Isis weakens and becomes less of a threat, the edgy detente between different anti-Isis forces, such as the Iraqi government and the Iraqi Kurds, will begin to fray. People in Baghdad recall that the Kurds took advantage of the defeat of the Iraqi army in 2014 to grab extensive lands long disputed between themselves and the Arabs. Once freed of the menace of Isis, non-Kurdish Iraqis will want these territories back.
In Syria, there is an even more complicated three-cornered fight between the Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the Syrian Kurds and Turkey for the areas from which Isis is retreating. Turkish troops and their local proxies have just taken al-Bab, northeast of Aleppo, from Isis after a hard fought siege, and have started attacking the town of Manbij nearby, which was taken from Isis after a long battle late last year by the Syrian Kurdish Peoples Mobilisation Units (YPG) and its Arab allies. As Isis is driven out, the YPG and Turkish-backed forces are left facing each other in what might be the beginning of a new Kurdish-Turkish war waged across northern Syria.
Even those familiar with the complexities and shifting alliances of the Syrian civil war are baffled by the likely outcome as the different players in Syria position themselves to take advantage of a likely attack on Raqqa, the de facto Syrian capital of Isis. Will the US continue to use the devastating firepower of its air force to support a YPG-led ground offensive? Or could the US administration under Trump take a more pro-Turkish stance and, if it did so, would the Syrian Kurds look for an alternative military alliance with Assad and his Russian backers?
Recommended Iraq army makes big gains in battle to oust Isis from Mosul stronghold
The answers to such questions will decide if we are really getting towards the end of the terrible wars in Iraq and Syria that have ravaged the region since 2003 or if we are only seeing an end to a phase in the conflict. In Iraq, the government has survived the disasters of 2014 and is about to defeat Isis in Mosul, though the Baghdad administration remains spectacularly corrupt, sectarian and dysfunctional. Assad in Syria has already won a crucial victory by capturing east Aleppo, the last big urban stronghold of the armed opposition in Syria, and is evidently intending to win back the whole country.
These successes give an exaggerated idea of the real power of the Iraqi army, which owes the reversal in the military tide to the support of foreign powers and, above all, to US airpower. The same is true of the Syrian army in its reliance on Russia and Russian airstrikes. So far, the mix of cooperation and rivalry between the US and Russia in Syria that developed under President Obama has not changed much under Donald Trump.
Yet the war is not quite over. Isis has a tradition of responding to defeats on the battlefield by carrying out terrorist attacks in the region, Europe, Turkey or other parts of the world. Some spectacular atrocities would enable it once again to dominate the news agenda and show it is not beaten.
Isis may want to test the Trump administration and see if it can provoke it into an overreaction by some act of terror, just as al-Qaeda was able to do at the time of 9/11.
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All over Europe, compulsory military service has gradually been phased out, but given recent terrorist attacks and an increasingly aggressive Russia could it be time for a rethink?
Sweden has followed Norway, announcing plans to introduce military conscription for both sexes: 13,000 recruits will be called up each year, from which 4,000 will be selected for service. Currently, most EU countries rely on volunteers, and there are few penalties for refusing to serve when asked.
Public opinion started to change following the Russian annexation of Crimea and the Charlie Hebdo attack in Paris in 2015. In Switzerland, a referendum in 2013 revealed that 73 per cent favoured conscription; there, young people have a choice between joining the military or the civil protection force.
In France, polls show 80 per cent of the public would like compulsory military service to return (it ended in 2002), whereas in Germany only 36 per cent are in favour. The arrival of millions of refugees and an increasing number of attacks on civilians by groups claiming to be acting as part of an army in the name of radical Islam have placed new strains on security services, particularly in France and Germany.
In some EU countries, youth unemployment is so high that compulsory service has been proposed as a solution. Perhaps the UK might consider a different form of youth service not military which relies on volunteers, properly funded and lasting one or two years. It could be residential, but thats not essential.
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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. 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City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images
At the moment, too many working-class boys are underperforming, lacking in motivation, technical and social skills. In short, many are unemployable. Its all very well to create apprenticeships, but there arent enough and some of the jobs sound pretty grim. These young men need to learn confidence and the realities of life before we start urging them to become plumbers and electricians. In the meantime, they collect benefits and just fester.
A youth force might tackle jobs that councils are finding tough to finance, like litter clearance, helping with basic tasks in the production and delivery of meals on wheels, cleaning in old peoples homes, and maintaining parks and open spaces. This work neednt be demeaning. A carefully targeted youth force paid the living wage could inspire leadership, provide education and create the leaders of tomorrow. Otherwise, where will the next generation of politicians come from?
Industrial action in a row over cost-cutting at Bus Eireann had threatened to cripple the nationwide network from Monday
A planned all-out indefinite strike at Bus Eireann has been called off as bosses and unions agreed to attend talks.
Industrial action in a row over cost-cutting at the carrier had threatened to cripple the nationwide bus network from Monday.
But both the National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU) and Siptu said they would sit down with company bosses at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
The strike action has been "suspended" to allow for the negotiations to take place.
Dermot O'Leary, general secretary of the NBRU, said the decision to call off action was made possible after Bus Eireann agreed to shelve some cutbacks.
He added: "We will of course endeavour, on behalf of commuters and our members, to work towards resolving this crisis.
"However, the attitude displayed by Bus Eireann management to-date has left us with no option but to advise our members that they should remain on a war-footing and be prepared to engage in an immediate all-out strike, should the company plough ahead with its Irish Ferries-style attack on bus workers' moderate terms and conditions."
Willie Noone, of Siptu, said it postponed strike action "in deference to a request by the WRC" to do so.
"Siptu representatives will continue to play their part in trying to avert a national public transport dispute but we rely on the management of Bus Eireann making genuine efforts to reach a resolution," he said.
Bus Eireann said it was deferring recently announced cost-cutting measures to allow the talks take place.
These measures included the axing of routes between Dublin and Derry, Clonmel and Westport within weeks while services between the capital and Limerick and Galway were to be curtailed.
The cutbacks were expected to impact on pay and jobs.
Earlier this week, Transport Minister Shane Ross insisted he would not make an 11th-hour intervention to resolve the row.
Bus Eireann says it lost up to 9 million euro (7.7 million) last year and will be insolvent by the end of this year - its 30th anniversary - with the loss of all 2,600 jobs unless an emergency survival plan is agreed.
Unions claim cost-cutting measures being proposed by the company will result in effective pay cuts of up to 30%.
The European Parliament's president has thrown his backing behind Ireland in future Brexit talks.
After meeting the Taoiseach in Brussels yesterday, Antonio Tajani said Brexit would be "a particular challenge" for Ireland and he would "take into account Ireland's concerns".
"Firstly, Ireland must ensure that its economy and trade, that is deeply linked to the UK, is protected," Mr Tajani told reporters.
"Secondly, it must ensure that the achievements of the Good Friday Agreement, which gave us peace in Northern Ireland, are included in any future agreement between the UK and the European Union. Both issues will have the full attention of the European Parliament."
Taoiseach Enda Kenny was on his second whistle-stop tour of Brussels in as many weeks, which took in the EU's three main institutions.
He met the commission's lead negotiator Michel Barnier, who - according to a government spokesman - agreed to "intensify the already close engagement" with Ireland ahead of the UK's notice to quit the EU, due by the end of the month.
Donald Tusk, who chairs the meetings of the 27 EU leaders, was more circumspect, tweeting - in Irish - that he had a "worthwhile" meeting with Mr Kenny.
Disruption
Meanwhile, Moody's Investors Service has warned that Brexit could be worse for Ireland than initially thought, with lower export growth and a deeper disruption to business.
Added to that, potential changes in tax policies in the United States also risk harming the State's public finances as the majority of corporate tax receipts come from US multinationals, the body said.
Some form of Border controls were likely to be put in place between Northern Ireland and the Republic post-Brexit, Moody's said, and any upsides in terms of increased financial services investment could be dented by the housing crisis.
"The impact on Ireland's medium-term growth prospects could be significant," Moody's said. "Most of the negative impact would be felt within the first three years after the UK's actual exit. The impact on Ireland's medium-term economic growth prospects could well be larger than what had been assumed initially."
Moody's pointed out that supply chains were deeply integrated between Ireland and the UK, and could face disruption.
Read more: Colm McCarthy - Brexit talks will force us to make some difficult choices
In many manufacturing sectors, nearly half of all imported intermediate goods, for use in Irish production processes, were sourced from the UK, Moody's said.
"Some form of border controls will likely have to be reintroduced between the Republic and Northern Ireland, adding to the trade disruption," it said.
Moody's also said that plans for US corporate tax reform under President Donald Trump could be an "immediate and relevant" risk for Ireland.
When Irish farmers hear a Dublin accent critiquing their stock its not always welcome, Allan Morris admits, but the man from Drimnagh has been working with meat on plates for 27 years and knows a thing or two about what the worlds top chefs are looking for.
Morris, originally from Drimnagh in Dublin but now living in Roscommon trained and worked as a butcher for years and is part owner of John Stone, a joint venture with Kepak, which supplies Irish beef to high end restaurants worldwide.
Its a niche business we only sell at the top end of the market, mainly to Asia and the Middle East and into to four-star plus chefs that want fat and intermarbelling muscled beef.
These fat cuts come from primarily R4H fat steers or heifers under 30 months, which he says would not be acceptable by the likes of Tesco.
I select the fat ones, which is a downgrade, and not acceptable for the likes of Tesco and its the loin cuts Im after. I dont sell top sides, or briskets, just loin cuts rib eye, striploin, fillet and rump. The rest I have no market for.
Allan also says he has no particular favourite breed. Many chefs are brainwashed with Angus, but after 27 years experience not all Angus are perfect, or Hereford. The skill is down to the farmer.
Just because they are Angus or Hereford does not make them great, they may not be finished right.
My team are looking for 320-380kg, with a fat score of 4 upwards and R grades. People are always surprised I dont select all Angus or Hereford, but its all about the meat underneath not what looks good in a field.
From Drimnagh to Dubai
In Dubai for Gulfood, Morris explains that John Stone evolved through his work with Russel Meats, which is owned by John Stone, and Kepak. Morris started work as a butcher in Ireland when he left school at 15 before moving to the Channel Island where he met John Stone and worked in his specialist meat catering group Russel Meats.
Russel Meats was one of the first meat companies to offer mail order meat, which it started in 1997 and when looking to expand into more markets it teamed up with Kepak in 2002. Today, the John Stone company operates within the Kepak Group and sells Irish beef to top chefs around the world.
Dry aged beef
According to Allan, the benefits of dry aged beef mean that if its done right the moisture is removed and the flavour concentrated in the beef.
A lot of people in the market are using salt walls and other gimmicks, but we dont need salt walls as it removes moisture, but we use humidity control, temperature and air flow.
And how long it takes, he says, depends on each piece of meat. Once its ready, it can be different amount of days, depending on the beef. Its down to the butchers touch.
John Stone beef, he says, is known around the world for its kitchen-ready format, with minimal preparation left for chefs.
It supplies more than 3,500 restaurants, including The Merrion hotel, the Marker, the Westbury, Thyme and The Fatted Calf in Athlone, while internationally the company sells into Switzerlands premium and largest supermarket chain Migros.
Grass-fed Beef
While John Stone is selling Irish grass-fed beef into top end restaurants worldwide, Allan says that while chefs outside of Ireland do not have the same selection of beef available to them, the competition for the business of such chefs is intense.
Ireland is competing against the biggest beef producers in the world and we have to make sure the beef consistently performs time and time again and we have to innovate and bring new products to make chefs lives easier.
The consumer wants a lean meat that also has fat and thats where grass-fed beef works. But, he says, grass-fed beef has a poor reputation as it traditionally has been associated with other countries and has come from the dairy herd or older animals and thats a challenge that faces the industry here, he says, coupled with more beef from the dairy herd coming on stream.
And the whole industry has a role to play in this, he says.
US President Donald Trump has signalled his intention to support US farmers and ranchers as his administration mulls over a decision to hit EU exports with tariffs as high as 100pc.
The Trumps administration has this week announced its trade agenda, which said it would be strongly advocating for all US farmers and ranchers large and small to assure the "fairest possible treatment of American interests in the US market and in other markets around the world".
To achieve this objective the administration said it has identified four major priorities:
Defend US national sovereignty over trade policy; Strictly enforce US trade laws; Use all possible sources of leverage to encourage other countries to open their markets to US exports of goods and services, and provide adequate and effective protection and enforcement of US intellectual property rights Negotiate new and better trade deals with countries in key markets around the world.
It comes as the US Trade representative is examining the the possibility of imposing a tariff on certain imported products, including beef, called for submissions on the situation and received more than 11,500 responses prior to the deadline.
The US has said it is taking action against what it calls the EU's unfair trade practices, which it says discriminate against the US beef industry.
It says the EU's ban on hormone-treated US beef is not based on sound science and discriminates against American beef farmers, ranchers and producers.
The US National Cattlemen's Beef Association and the US Meat Export Federation wrote to the Office of the US Trade Representative before Christmas calling for an end to tariff concessions on EU exports and said that the US domestic beef industry would benefit from such a move.
The ban has been in place for around 20 years, and led the US to tackle the EU at the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
The EU bans the import of beef and beef products produced from animals to which any of six hormones have been administered for growth-promotion purposes in the US.
That case resulted in a 2009 deal with the EU agreeing to a hormone-free beef quota of 62,660 tonnes in carcass weight equivalent.
But the US says that agreement is not working as it should.
Other EU products under consideration for the imposition of increased duties include Roquefort cheese, hair clippers and Vespa scooters.
The European Commission had argued that this issue should be resolved through TTIP.
However, given that European officials decided after their trade ministers' meeting in September not to complete TTIP this year, the US has decided that now is the time to take action.
The US beef industry exports an average $6bn per year. These exports produce an estimated $7.6bn in economic activity and support 50,000 jobs in the US.
The food standards regulations which set compositional requirements for ice-cream, and specifically its minimum milk-fat, milk solids and sugar content are set to be changed.
The Minister of State for Health Promotion, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy, has proposed to revoke the current Food Standards (Ice-Cream) Regulations dating from 1952.
In a statement by the FSAI, the ice cream industry, in an effort to make food healthier and to meet some of the objectives set in the Department of Healths Strategy, is seeking to reformulate high fat, salt, sugar foods and drinks.
In particular, the stipulation that ice-cream contain at least 10% by weight of sugar presents problems for any company wishing to reduce the sugar content of its ice-cream products, according to the FSAI.
It says the purpose of the proposed Regulations is to revoke these compositional standards as soon as possible.
Having consulted other relevant government departments and official agencies, it is considered that is no longer fit for purpose and has largely been superseded by EU legislation, she said.
Recent research found that Ireland has the third highest consumption of ice cream per capita in Europe and the product has a retail market value of approximately 75.8m, according to Bord Bia.
Harry Hughes, one of the directors at Co Mayo firm Portwest
Irish protective clothing company Portwest has completed the takeover of Australian Prime Mover Workwear in a deal worth 7.5m.
Mayo-based Portwest also confirmed it is to open a new factory in Myanmar this year that will cost in the region of 10m and employ 1,200 people.
Portwest recently made headlines when the Hughes family behind the brand bought the historic Westport House in Mayo for around 10m. Plans are underway to develop the 450-acre site.
The company currently employs 1,700 people at a manufacturing site in Bangladesh.
Portwest currently has warehousing facilities in the US, Dubai, the UK, Poland and Ireland. The company's protective clothing is widely used in mining, building and security industries.
Prime Mover is the largest privately owned workwear company in Australia. It was founded in 2004 by Brett Birkill who will remain with the company as ceo for Australia and New Zealand.
"This marks an exciting new phase of development for Portwest and we look forward to working with Brett in expanding our reach in this area," said Owen Hughes, acquisition and financial director at Portwest.
The deal is the latest in a slew of investments being undertaken by the company which is led by brothers Cathal, Harry and Owen Hughes of Westport.
"We were looking at another investment in Australia when Prime Mover came to our attention," said Owen Hughes. "Having talked with them it became clear that their business model is very similar to our own. We are going to leave the current management structure in place and we believe we can add a lot of value to the business."
Birkill said Portwest came along at just the right time. "I feel confident that the Portwest team will continue to uphold the quality and service I've spent 13 years building. They actually care," he said.
Meanwhile, around 200 jobs are expected to be created at Westport House, when the development is completed.
Portwest says that it expects turnover at the company to hit 350m by 2020. "We have a strong affinity to the area in that we are locals. That said, we are businesspeople and we invested in Westport House because we believe in its potential to generate returns," said Mr Hughes.
He said the upcoming expansion in Myanmar would harness the group's growth potential in the coming years.
Irish low-cost carrier Ryanair said its traffic rose by 10pc in February to 8.2 million passengers.
The airline announced that traffic last month grew by 800,000 passengers compared to the same period in 2016.
On an annual basis, the company said traffic had risen by 14.1pc to 119 million customers.
Ryanair said that an improvement in its customer services policy had contributed to the increase in numbers.
Ryanairs lower fares and Always Getting Better services are leading to slightly higher than expected load factors in Q4 and accordingly we now expect full year traffic to just about hit 120m, up almost 13pc over the 106.4m customers we carried in full year 2016, said Ryanair's Kenny Jacobs.
Total Produce remains on the hunt for acquisitions, having just boosted its holding in Canadian fresh produce distributor Oppy by paying 28.4m for an additional 30pc stake in the business.
Total Produce chairman Carl McCann said the company had spent 60m on acquisitions last year, including 17m in contingent consideration. They included the purchase of a 65pc stake in Los Angeles-based Progressive Produce for an initial 28m, with a contingent consideration of 10.5m.
He was speaking as Total Produce posted a 16.8pc increase in adjusted pre-tax profits to 67.7m for 2016, and revenue of 3.7bn, a 9pc rise. Excluding acquisitions, revenue was 4pc higher.
The group also said that it's increasing its share in Oppy to 65pc. It acquired its initial 35pc stake in the company behind the Oppy business in 2013 for 15m.
Oppy has annual sales of about C$1bn (720m), and provides fresh produce to retailers, wholesalers and food services customers throughout the United States and Canada. As part of a wider transaction, Oppy has also signed a strategic deal with New Zealand-based T&G Global, the country's largest grower, packer, distributor, marketer and exporter of fresh produce, in volume terms.
T&G Global's majority shareholder is Germany's Baywa, a company whose activities stretch across agriculture, energy and building materials.
Under the deal struck with Oppy, T&G Global will increase its shareholding in Oppy's largest subsidiary, US-based David Oppenheimer & Co (DOC), to 39.4pc from the 15pc share it has held since 1997.
The enlarged T&G holding in DOC will be equivalent to the share in DOC held by Total Produce.
Oppy will also acquire from T&G Global a 50pc share in T&G Global's California-based export business, T&G Global North America, which trades in the market as Delica North America.
It primarily exports fresh produce to China and south east Asia.
Total Produce made acquisitions last year in the UK, the United States, Holland and Chile as it expanded its global footprint.
But it still has significant financial headroom to make further acquisitions. At the end of 2016, it had net debt of 48.4m compared to 18.1m at the end of 2015.
But its ratio of net debt to earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) stood at just 0.5 times at end of 2016.
Total Produce was spun off from Fyffes in 2006. Fyffes has just been sold for 751m to Japan's Sumitomo Corporation. Shares in Total Produce were trading 2.4pc higher after the open yesterday, valuing it at 609m.
The amount of tax collected so far this year is 44m better than expected, even though income tax has fallen short.
Income tax is 6pc below the target for February, which runs counter to data showing a steady fall in unemployment.
But the Department of Finance said this was due to exit taxes on life assurance policies coming in below target.
So far this year, 7.47bn has been collected in taxes - 44m, or 0.6pc, ahead of target.
The total has been boosted by better-than-projected VAT receipts, which are 212m ahead of profile even though February was a non-VAT month.
The better-than-expected performance was helped in part by lower than projected repayments to companies.
Strong
Peter Vale, tax partner at Grant Thornton, said Finance Minister Michael Noonan would be hoping that ongoing strong VAT receipts and corporation tax collections prop up any further underperformances.
"However, longer term, both VAT and corporation tax receipts remain susceptible to developments elsewhere, including Brexit and potential US tax reform," he said.
Davy Stockbrokers struck a more upbeat tone, saying the data paints an encouraging picture.
"The highlight so far is VAT receipts, up 17pc on last year," Davy economist Conall Mac Coille said.
"The public finances are already 130m ahead of the Government's 1.2bn deficit target for 2017."
So far this year, income tax is 3.8pc below target, corporation tax is 4.7pc lower, excise is 7.3pc below, and stamp duty is 12.9pc under. VAT is 8.1pc above target.
PLANS for a mega merger of Munster credit unions have hit a stumbling block, with members of the financially-stronger lender opposing the tie-up.
Angry members of Tipperary's Clonmel Credit Union attended a meeting on Tuesday night opposing plans for their lender to take over troubled Charleville CU.
Regulators and representative bodies are urging Cork's Charleville to allow itself be taken over by Clonmel.
However, Charleville has a historic problem with bad debts and needs funding of 4m from a League of Credit Unions rescue fund to shore up its balance sheet.
There was universal opposition to the merger plans at the Clonmel meeting, which was attended by 130 members after being convened at short notice. Members said they first heard of the planned merger when it was reported in the Irish Independent last week.
And they were disappointed there was so little information provided by their lender since, according to Cllr Catherine Carey, of Sinn Fein, who organised and chaired the meeting.
Clonmel CU pays a healthy dividend every Christmas and offers generous interest rebates, she said. There are fears that linking up with Charleville will impact on these benefits.
"People were angry. They don't want a merger to create a high-falutin bank with huge costs, where you have to queue up to use machines," said Cllr Carey, who is deputy mayor of Clonmel.
She added that people were questioning why a link-up with Charleville was being proposed when the towns are at least 50 miles apart. "We don't want to take on the debts of other people and those at the meeting were annoyed they had to open the newspaper to find out about this," she added.
Ninety of those in attendance voted to exercise the right of credit union members to force the board of Clonmel Credit Union to hold a special general meeting with them to provide information on the proposed merger.
More than 50 members have to sign a petition for this.
Tipperary's Clonmel lender is conducting due diligence ahead of a merger, with the Central Bank closely involved in monitoring developments.
Charleville has been hit by a big fall in the value of its offices in the town - a large former bank branch. No annual general meeting has been held since August 2012, according to the Irish League of Credit Unions.
Charleville has in the past aggressively gone after people who failed to repay loans.
In 2013, it secured 1m in court judgments against 16 individuals, the highest of any credit union that year.
It has been hit by high levels of bad debt despite operating in the wealthy Golden Vale hinterland.
Although they are a considerable distance apart from each other, Clonmel was chosen to take over the Charleville lender due to its financial strength.
The manager of Clonmel CU, Paul Davey, was unavailable for comment, but a joint statement issued by Mr Davey and Charleville manager Annette Kiely earlier this week said exploratory talks were taking place.
"If a merger or transfer of engagement should take place, we will inform the members of both credit unions directly," it said.
By mid-2016, two-and-a-half years after the scheme closed, no housing units had been completed. Stock Image: PA
Just 19 out of 73 sites taken over by a "mini-Nama" scheme to help debt-ridden local authorities have housing construction projects in the pipeline.
Questions were raised at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) about the apparent lack of progress to develop the sites three years after the Land Aggregation Scheme closed.
It allowed councils to offload residential development land, with outstanding debt, to the State.
By mid-2016, two-and-a-half years after the scheme closed, no housing units had been completed, the Comptroller and Auditor General, Seamus McCarthy, told the PAC.
He also said that at the time, 93pc of the sites had either no proposed development in place or the sites had not yet transferred to the Housing Agency.
Fianna Fail TD Shane Cassells said it was positive this "mini-Nama" scheme got "bad land deals" off the books of councils.
But he asked Department of Housing secretary general John McCarthy why there has been a three-year delay in building houses on the sites, given the seriousness of the housing crisis.
Read more: 'We demand answers' - Councillors hold 'closed meeting' to examine why 446 NAMA homes were rejected
Mr McCarthy said use of the sites was determined by the availability of resources and he said that "significantly greater amounts" of funding had only become available since 2015.
He said that 659 housing units on 19 of the sites were now "in our construction pipeline".
Elsewhere, Housing Minister Simon Coveney announced that the European Investment Bank (EIB) is backing a 405m social housing investment programme.
The EIB financing of 200m is being matched by the Housing Finance Agency (HFA) here.
Under the plan, it is expected that 1,400 homes will be built and a further 700 properties will be upgraded.
Mr Coveney made the announcement at a development of 68 homes in Beaumont, Dublin, which were funded under a previous HFA/EIB deal.
Earlier, homeless charity Simon Communities proposed taxing vacant properties as a means of opening up some of the 200,000 empty units for use.
Spokeswoman Niamh Randall said it was "unacceptable" that 198,358 homes lie empty.
She pointed out this was 27 times the number of people in emergency accommodation - 7,167 men, women and children.
Mr Coveney said his strategy for getting vacant properties back into use would involve incentives rather than penalties.
He said measures he had already implemented were "starting to work".
He said the Government had committed 140m to a repair and leasing initiative to encourage property owners to bring empty properties back into use for social housing. He also said the Housing Agency has been given 70m to purchase vacant properties.
Amazon has blamed a typo for a massive cloud-computing outage that caused problems for thousands of websites and apps.
The web giant has apologised for the five-hour outage of some Amazon Web Services that took down websites including Slack, Trello and Medium.
Amazon has now revealed exactly what went wrong, explaining that an incorrectly typed command during a routine debugging of its billing system was to blame, also known as a fat-finger typo.
The employee only intended to remove a small number of servers, but instead the typo caused unprecedented performance problems for thousands of companies that rely on Amazons cloud-computing service.
Unfortunately, one of the inputs to the command was entered incorrectly and a larger set of servers was removed than intended, the Seattle company explained.
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Amazon added its Simple Storage Service had experienced massive growth over the past few years, adding that the process of restarting these services and running the necessary safety checks to validate the integrity of the metadata took longer than expected.
The Jeff Bezos company said it was making several changes to prevent a similar incident from happening again.
We want to apologise for the impact this event caused for our customers, the company said.
We know how critical this service is to our customers, their applications and end users, and their businesses. We will do everything we can to learn from this event and use it to improve our availability even further.
Last year, this lucky man became $123m richer after a banking error.
While another Redditor asked the internet for help on what do with $400,000 (265,000) that appeared in their bank account.
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Cloud data provider Interxion has opened a third data centre in Dublin in a 28m development.
The Dutch company said it had also purchased additional land at the Grange Castle Business Park site for future expansion.
Since Interxion opened its first data centre in Ireland in 2001 demand for our services has continued to grow and evolve as Irelands economy changed, said Tanya Duncan, managing director of Interxion Ireland
The data centre industry in Ireland continues to thrive and the Grange Castle Business Park has become a strategic location for businesses looking to interconnect mission critical services in Ireland.
Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald thanked the company for their continued investment in her constituency.
This development is evidence of the companys continuing commitment to Ireland and to the community here, Ms Fitzgerald said.
With data increasingly becoming the lifeblood of the global economy, Ireland is well positioned to thrive as a location for the worlds best and most efficient data centres well into the future, the minister added.
The corporate headquarters of Caterpillar Inc. the world's largest manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, and industrial gas turbines, based in Peoria, Illinois August 5, 2009. REUTERS/Jeff Haynes
Federal law enforcement officials conducting a criminal probe of heavy machinery manufacturer Caterpillar searched three of its facilities on Thursday, prompting a sharp sell-off in the company's stock.
A spokeswoman for the US Attorney Office for the Central District of Illinois, Sharon Paul, confirmed that federal law enforcement officials conducted searches at locations in Peoria, East Peoria and Morton, Illinois, but did not say why agents raided the three facilities.
Caterpillar, in a statement issued on Thursday afternoon, said it believed the search was part of an Internal Revenue Service investigation related to profits earned by a Swiss parts subsidiary, Caterpillar SARL, or CSARL.
It said that "while the warrant is broadly drafted, we believe the execution of this search warrant is regarding, among other things, export filings that relate to the CSARL matter first disclosed in Caterpillar's Form 10-K filed on February 17, 2015, and updated in Caterpillar's most recent Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 15, 2017."
Agencies involved in the search included the IRS' Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security's Office of Export Enforcement, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.'s Office of Inspector General, Paul said.
Officials at the agencies could not be reached for comment.
Caterpillar shares fell 4.3 percent to close at $94.36 on the New York Stock Exchange after trading as low as $92.84.
Three arrests were carried out here and in the North as part of a joint intelligence-led operation between gardai and the PSNI linked to the murder of David Black. (Stock image)
Garda Special Branch officers have arrested a man wanted in connection with the murder of a Northern Ireland prison officer more than four years ago.
Three arrests were carried out here and in the North as part of a joint intelligence-led operation between gardai and the PSNI linked to the murder of David Black. The prison officer was shot dead when his car was ambushed by New IRA terrorists on the M1 motorway near Lurgan, Co Armagh, as he drove to work in Maghaberry jail in November 2012.
Two men, aged 40 and 59, were arrested yesterday by gardai in Donegal while a 47-year-old woman was detained in Belfast.
The 40-year-old man was named last night by the PSNI as Damien McLaughlin, from Kilmascally Road, Ardboe, Co Tyrone. He had been charged previously with aiding and abetting murder as well as possession of items to be used in terrorism and being a member of an illegal organisation.
Mr McLaughlin was granted bail in May 2014 and had not been seen since last November. He was detained by gardai under a European arrest warrant on a street at Ramelton, Co Donegal, and taken to Dublin. He is due to appear on the warrant before the High Court in Dublin this morning.
Gardai arrested the 59-year-old man, who is from Derry, at the same time in Ramelton and he was held under section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act.
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He was being questioned last night at Letterkenny station.
Senior Garda officers said last night that the arrests followed an extensive intelligence gathering operation and said the Special Branch and other Garda units worked closely with their PSNI counterparts.
PSNI officers last night were questioning the female suspect at Musgrave serious crime suite.
Det Chief Supt Raymond Murray said senior PSNI officers contacted members of the Black family to inform them of the latest developments.
The High Court has quashed, on consent, findings of the planning tribunal against the chairman of Joseph Murphy Structural Engineering (JMSE).
Joseph Murphy junior took proceedings against the tribunal over adverse findings against him in its second and third interim reports.
Yesterday the tribunal acknowledged some material had not been disclosed to Mr Murphy, his late father Joseph Murphy senior and others associated with Murphy interests.
This was unlawful and breached Mr Murphy's Constitutional rights, it said.
The material in question would have enabled the Murphys to conduct an effective and comprehensive cross-examination of the tribunal's main witness, the late James Gogarty.
Following the court's order, Mr Murphy said he was delighted with the outcome.
What the tribunal had found was "far removed" from the values he and his late father had in business, he said.
The tribunal was set up 20 years ago and made findings in 2002 which had "huge consequences" for his business.
Asked if he is to receive any damages as part of the case, he said no, but he was happy with the result and he wanted to "get on with my life".
Reports
A number of statements taken during the tribunal's private investigations were either not disclosed or only disclosed in redacted form and were subsequently the subject of findings in the tribunal's second and third interim reports.
In February last year, the tribunal furnished Mr Murphy with further material which had not been made available and which the tribunal said ought to have been disclosed.
The tribunal acknowledged the findings were made in circumstances which breached the Murphys' rights to fair procedures.
It also acknowledged the findings were unlawful and that they received "enormous publicity which has been extremely damaging to them".
Mr Justice Seamus Noonan, who was also told Ireland and the Attorney General was consenting to a strike out of the case, granted the orders as sought.
Derry McCann, who has admitted to the "terrifying, violent and prolonged" rape of a stranger. Photo: Metropolitan Police/PA Wire
A GROOM has admitted to the "terrifying, violent and prolonged" rape of a stranger hours before he was due to marry his pregnant partner.
Predatory Derry McCann, 28, launched his horrific, two-hour assault as his victim was "within sight" of her front door in an east London park on January 13.
He played "mind games" after dragging the woman into the undergrowth - taunting her by asking what she thought he would do next, Snaresbrook Crown Court was told.
In a further depraved effort to humiliate his victim, he took photos of her following the attack, warning she was lucky that he did not video the ordeal, police said.
Hours later, he tied the knot with his girlfriend, prosecutors said.
His conviction comes a decade after a teenage McCann was jailed for carrying out a similar prolonged rape.
He was handed a life sentence in 2006 for the violent act, which was also committed in a London park, it is understood
The defendant, of Hackney, east London, fixed his eyes on the ground as he pleaded guilty to three counts of rape, one count of assault by penetration and one count of robbery.
Honorary Recorder Martyn Zeidman told the rapist he had carried out a "terrible" crime and faced a "very, very long time" in prison.
Kate Bex, prosecuting, told the court the defendant was "recently released" from jail, adding: "The oldest conviction on Mr McCann's record might also be of some relevance."
McCann's "unusual" behaviour saw him also snatch the woman's mobile phone and bra, the court heard.
Detectives believe he had been stalking another woman in the area before targeting his eventual victim.
Ms Bex said: "It was about midnight, just a little after, and the victim was walking a short distance home having been out to an art gallery, socialising with friends
"She was almost within sight of her own front door when she skirted round the side of the park on her usual route home.
"She avoided walking through the middle of it because that was too dangerous, she walked around the side, but unfortunately when near the exit of the park the defendant grabbed her arm and pulled her to one side."
Police said the panicked woman tried to reason with her attacker - but was punched in the face and threatened with further violence.
"He began a sustained and systematic attack... accompanied by unusual conversation with the victim, best described as mind games in an attempt to control her," Ms Bex said.
"Asking the victim what she thought he was going to do to her before actually carrying out the acts.
"He behaved oddly in other respects in interacting with the victim concerning the condom he used..."
The sex offender was arrested by police on January 18 and charged the following day.
The recorder told him: "You have done the most terrible things and you will be going to prison, as you understand, for a very, very long time."
McCann will be sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on April 28.
Crown Prosecution Service London reviewing lawyer Andrew Held said: "This was a terrifying, violent and prolonged attack involving rapes committed by a man intent on inflicting fear and psychological suffering.
"The strong prosecution case which led to today's guilty pleas included victim testimony, an ID parade, CCTV footage, and bad character evidence based on a similar rape committed by McCann in 2006.
"I would like to thank McCann's victim for her courage in helping bring this prosecution and hope his conviction provides some sense of justice for her."
The Killarney Plaza Hotel where the lift fell four floors. (Stock photo)
The engineering company that installed a hotel lift that suffered a "catastrophic collapse" and crashed down four floors has been found guilty of "shoddy and unsafe" practice.
The lift hurtled down the elevator shaft at the Killarney Plaza Hotel in July 2011 and seriously injured some of the five family members who were inside.
The unanimous verdict by the jury of five women and seven men came after just an hour of deliberations at the Circuit Criminal Court in Tralee on the third day of the trial.
The Meehan family were at a wedding in Killarney at the time of the accident.
Judge Thomas E O'Donnell commended the Meehan family on their dignity and resilience after the "horror movie" experience from which they were still recovering.
There had been no appearance by the accused lift installation company Ellickson Engineering Ltd, Kilmurry, Co Waterford.
The trial had to proceed with a not guilty plea. The matter had been investigated by the Health and Safety Authority, not gardai.
Tom Rice, prosecuting barrister for the DPP, told Judge Thomas O'Donnell that Ellickson Engineering Ltd's "assets or a portion of its assets" had been seized by a receiver and sold to another limited liability company.
He was seeking an adjournment of sentencing to find out from the receiver what assets were available so the fine could be determined.
A company called Kilell Ltd now operated part of the business previously operated by Ellickson - but not the lift department, the trial also heard.
In a statement given outside court, Kilell said it acquired the trading name Ellickson and Waterford premises in 2011 from receivers Grant Thornton and stressed that the company was not being prosecuted.
Read more: 'It was like a horror movie' - Family's terror after hotel lift plunged through four floors
Ellickson Engineering Ltd was tried for a single count of a breach of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act to do with the installation at the hotel in and around April 2004.
The Daldoss Easy Life Lift was installed into what was an existing building because of space constraints.
It had special features for a refuge space so it could be safely maintained, the trial heard.
However, wiring, brackets and switches in the electrics for the lift had not been installed, lift specialist Simon Nicholas Lancaster said.
It was "an unsafe and hazardous" environment for workmen.
Anyone working on a breakdown of the lift "could potentially be crushed" should the lift move, he said. The lift could never be properly inspected.
On July 9, 2011, at around 2pm the main sheave house collapsed as the lift approached the fourth level of the hotel.
The Meehan family were trapped inside. They had been coming from the wedding ceremony of a cousin at St Mary's Cathedral and were going for a quick bite to eat, before going on to the wedding reception at another hotel.
Paul Meehan, a garda, said his life flashed in front of him.
It was like "living in a horror movie", he said.
A man charged in connection with the murder of Northern Ireland prison officer David Black has appeared at the High Court in Dublin on foot of a European Arrest Warrant.
Damien Joseph McLaughlin (40), with an address at Glenties Rd, Belfast, was arrested yesterday in County Donegal by a member of the Special Detective Unit.
Mr McLaughlin is wanted by the authorities in Northern Ireland to face allegations that he aided and abetted in the murder of David Black on November 1, 2012, and was in possession of an article suspected of being for the commission of the act of murder.
Mr Black (52) was shot dead on the M1 motorway by dissident republicans as he drove to work in Maghaberry jail.
Mr McLaughlin is also charged with engaging in conduct in preparation for acts of terrorism and of being a member of a proscribed organisation.
Detective Sergeant Padraig Boyce, of the Special Detective Unit, told counsel for the State Fiona Murphy BL today that he arrested Mr McLaughlin on Thursday in Donegal.
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He said that he asked the accused man if he was Damien McLaughlin.
Mr McLaughlin nodded, the court heard.
The detective cautioned the man and he replied that he wanted to speak to his solicitor.
He was conveyed to Letterkenny garda station and shown a copy of the European Arrest Warrant.
The detective read over a summary of the offences and asked the accused man if he knew what they were about, the court heard, and Mr McLaughlin said that he did.
Under cross-examination, Det Sgt Boyce told David Leonard BL, for Mr McLaughlin, that the accused man was a passenger in a vehicle when arrested.
The court heard that Mr McLaughlin was dragged out of the car, and his legs were crossed and cable-tied.
Det Sgt Boyce did not agree with the barrister that Mr McLaughlin had been treated with more force than necessary.
The detective said that Mr McLoughlin is "a high-risk person" and that there was a "strong and real possibility" he had a firearm.
He was "dealt with in a prompt and appropriate fashion" and "not treated with any more force than necessary", the detective added.
Mr Leonard submitted to the court that excessive force was used and that "either disregard or insufficient weight was placed on the presumption of innocence".
In these circumstances the arrest was invalid, he said.
Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly rejected the application.
She said that Mr McLaughlin is accused of offences of terrorism.
"It is also alleged that he had been released on bail in Northern Ireland and he failed to abide by the conditions of his bail," she said.
She added that it is important gardai carry out risk assessments before arresting somebody and that she did not consider that excessive force was used or that there was a breach of the presumption of innocence
Mr McLaughlin was remanded in custody until March 20th, when his case is listed for mention again.
Garda Whistleblower Sgt. Maurice McCabe and his wife Lorraine photographed at their home in Mount Nugent on the Cavan/Meath border
Maurice McCabe and his family have issued proceedings against the HSE and Tusla seeking damages over the creation of a file containing false sexual abuse allegations against the garda whistleblower.
Sgt McCabe, his wife Lorraine, and their four children initiated proceedings earlier this week for malicious falsehood, breach of privacy and breach of constitutional rights, Independent.ie has learned.
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Reliefs are also being sought to compel the HSE and Tusla provide information and documents to the family.
It is understood that certain injunctions may also be sought as part of the proceedings.
The High Court proceedings were initiated on Wednesday.
However, statements of claim have yet to be served on the HSE and Tusla.
A counsellor who filed false accusations of sexual abuse against Sgt McCabe was working for the HSEs National Counselling Service when the claims were made in August 2013.
The following May Tusla was told the accusation was the result of a clerical error.
However, the untrue sexual abuse claim remained on a Tusla file until at least January 2016 when a member of its staff, unaware there was no substance to it, contacted Sgt McCabe.
The Tusla file, which included details of Sgt McCabe, his wife and his children, was also shared with gardai.
Both Tusla and the HSE have issued apologies to the McCabes.
However, the McCabes rejected the HSE apology.
They said the HSE statement in which the apology was issued was wrong and that information in it did not coincide with information released to the McCabes by Tusla under the Freedom of Information Act.
The HSE statement said that once the alleged error was discovered all proper procedures were taken by the HSE.
However, the McCabes said their FOI file showed the opposite.
The lawsuit was filed just two days after the Disclosure Tribunal, which will investigate claims of an alleged smear campaign against Sgt McCabe, opened at Dublin Castle.
The tribunal is currently seeking submissions from anyone with information about matters covered by its terms of reference.
Parties have until March 13 to make submissions and hand over any evidence they have to the tribunal, which is headed by Mr Justice Peter Charleton.
A mother-of-two was filmed jogging across a road after telling a consultant she could not move her right leg and ankle and was suffering serious back pain.
Circuit Civil Court President Mr Justice Raymond Groarke said that Stephen Bothma, private investigator with Core Group Investigations, had also filmed Esther Lamidi getting into her car without "any bother or restriction of movement".
Barrister Lisa Kelly, counsel for Zurich Insurance, and motorist John Lowry in a personal injuries claim against them for 60,000 said Ms Lamidi had told defence medical consultant Aidan Gleeson, on the day of the video recording, that she was "unable to function in any way".
"You told him that you struggled to move about and pain was restricting your movements," Ms Kelly told Ms Lamidi, of North Strand Road, North Strand, Dublin 3.
Ms Lamidi (33) had claimed in evidence that Mr Lowry, a bus driver travelling home after a night shift, had driven across a stop line at Mountjoy Square traffic junction and crashed into her car.
Ms Kelly told Ms Lamidi, an unaccompanied provisional licence holder, that she had ignored Mr Lowry twice beeping the horn at her and that she had failed to yield while his vehicle was in control of the junction.
"With regard to your injuries you have at the very least exaggerated your evidence," Ms Kelly said.
She told Ms Lamidi, who said she could not remember if she had failed four, five or six driving tests, that her evidence had been totally inconsistent with what she had said to the insurer's medical expert and the court.
Ms Lamidi said she had been driving on a provisional licence for the past 17 years.
Judge Groarke, throwing out Ms Lamidi's claim with costs against her, said impact damage was not consistent with her evidence that Mr Lowry had driven into the junction at speed. He said Ms Lamidi, who wept almost continuously throughout her evidence, had not complained to her GP of back pain until almost 18 months after the accident.
Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan has stepped down from an important internal panel that determines senior promotions within the force.
Ms O'Sullivan is to be replaced by one of her deputies, Donal O Cualain, on the panel that appoints assistant commissioners.
The commissioner has said she has taken the decision for "work-related reasons".
But sources point out that she must now prepare for the fact that she will be a key witness at the Charleton Inquiry, which is examining the alleged smear campaign against Garda whistleblower Maurice McCabe.
The move to step down from the board was taken this week following communication between the force and the Policing Authority.
Ms O'Sullivan has strongly rejected concerns about her capacity to lead the force while also dealing with the tribunal.
The chairperson of the Policing Authority, Josephine Feehily, said last week it had concerns about her ability to do both.
The commissioner rejected these concerns, saying she had put a team in place to drive planned reforms of the force while also dealing with the needs of the tribunal.
"We are already on record as saying we will fully co-operate with the tribunal in every way, and we look forward to being able to do that," she said.
Referring to vacancies that previously existed at senior management level in the force, she said: "In the last three years I as an individual, as both an interim commissioner of An Garda Siochana and the Commissioner of An Garda Siochana, have had to operate on a very limited capacity, so I am no stranger at having to operate at a limited capacity."
Asked if she was surprised by Ms Feehily's comments, the Commissioner said: "We discussed in detail at both private and public meetings with the authority and at no stage did the authority express anything other than confidence in our capacity to do the job."
Smears
Separately, Alan Shatter refused to say if he was aware, when he was justice minister, of false smears allegedly circulated by senior gardai about whistleblower Sgt McCabe.
Mr Shatter resigned from the cabinet in May 2014, a month after a file was created by Tusla containing a false sexual abuse allegation against Sgt McCabe.
The former TD told the Irish Independent the first he learned of the file was when he saw a report last month on RTE.
He said he was "reflecting" on whether he would make a submission to the Disclosure Tribunal, which is investigating the treatment of Sgt McCabe and other whistleblowers by Garda management.
Asked if he had information that would be relevant to the work of the tribunal, Mr Shatter said: "The first I learned of the bizarre conduct of the HSE and Tusla, and I can say this without any fear of contradiction, was when I watched the 'Prime Time' programme. I think Judge Charleton is an excellent judge. I wish him well with the tribunal. I am reflecting on whether there is anything that I might submit to him that would assist him in his work."
Asked if he was aware of any attempts to smear Sgt McCabe, Mr Shatter said: "I am simply not going to get into that today."
The breakthrough has been described as a masterpiece in bioengineering
Artificial human life could soon be grown from scratch in the lab, after scientists successfully created a mammal embryo using only stem cells.
Cambridge University mixed two kinds of mouse stem cells and placed them on a 3D scaffold.
After four days of growth in a tank of chemicals designed to mimic conditions inside the womb, the cells formed the structure of a living mouse embryo.
The breakthrough has been described as a 'masterpiece' in bioengineering, which could eventually allow scientists to grow artificial human embryos in the lab without the need for a sperm or an egg.
Pregnancy
Growing embryos would help researchers to study the very early stages of human life so they could understand why so many pregnancies fail, but is likely to prove controversial and raise ethical questions about what constitutes human life.
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Whatsapp Cambridge University mixed two kinds of mouse stem cells and placed them on a 3D scaffold. After four days of growth in a tank of chemicals designed to mimic conditions inside the womb, the cells formed the structure of a living mouse embryo.
Currently scientists can carry out experiments on leftover embryos from IVF treatments, but they are in short supply and must be destroyed after 14 days.
Scientists say that being able to create unlimited artificial embryos in the lab could speed up research while potentially removing some of the ethical boundaries.
"We think that it will be possible to mimic a lot of the developmental events occurring before 14 days using human stem cells using a similar approach to our technique using mouse stem cells," said Professor Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz from the department of physiology, development and neuroscience at Cambridge, who led the research.
"We are very optimistic that this will allow us to study key events of this critical stage of human development without actually having to work on (IVF) embryos.
"Knowing how development normally occurs will allow us to understand why it so often goes wrong."
The embryos were created using genetically engineered stem cells coupled with extra-embryonic trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) which form the placenta in a normal pregnancy.
Previous attempts to grow embryos using only one kind of stem cell proved unsuccessful because the cells would not assemble into their correct positions.
But scientists discovered that when they added the second 'placental' stem cell, the two types began to talk to each other, effectively telling each other where to go.
Together they eventually melded to form an embryonic structure, with two distinct clusters of cells at each end, and a cavity in the middle in which the embryo would continue to develop.
The embryo would not grow into a mouse because it lacks the stem cells which make a yolk sack.
However, such work raises ethical questions about the sanctity of human life and whether it should be manipulated or created in the lab at all.
Critics warn that allowing embryos to be grown for science opens the door to designer babies and genetically modified humans.
But the study was welcomed by the scientific community who said it was a significant breakthrough.
Dr Dusko Ilic, Reader in stem cell science, King's College London, described the research as a "masterpiece" in creating the earliest steps of life in a lab.
"This report is significant. The group from Cambridge is actually making the embryos de novo, using two different cell types, mixing them in a specific ratio and letting them to assemble together the embryo. This is science at its best."
The research was published in the journal 'Science' and was funded by the Wellcome Trust and the European Research Council.
Children who desperately need spinal surgery to treat scoliosis may have to travel to the UK for the procedure.
Health Minister Simon Harris has said this was among the options being examined as part of a new scoliosis plan, which he has just received from the HSE.
The aim is to have no child waiting for surgery for more than four months at the end of the year.
The plight of scores of children, whose spines are deteriorating, causing them pain and damage to organs, has been compounded by the inability to fully open a new state-of -the-art theatre at Our Lady's Hospital, Crumlin.
The minister, who was before the Oireachtas Health Committee yesterday to outline how the 14.1bn allocation to the health service will be spent this year, reiterated that it will be able to do more operations from April and this will be escalated further from July when a new surgeon arrives.
Referring to spiralling waiting lists for children and adults, he said the aim was to have nobody waiting longer than 15 months by October.
The concentration will be on those who are waiting longest, he said.
"The HSE is currently working on the development of a waiting list action plan," he said.
In the past year, hospitals have hired an additional 135 new consultants and although it is hard to fill vacancies in some specialties, the picture overall is "improving".
Questioned on the trolley crisis in emergency departments, Mr Harris said work is to begin this month on next winter's plan.
He has asked the HSE to look at what worked and the failures in the last winter initiative.
He told the committee members that the strain of flu circulating this year was particularly impacting on older people and it has not been seen here since 2009.
The death toll from flu rose to 76 yesterday with most of its victims over 65.
Questioned about the fact that there are just 5,000 public nursing home beds currently available, he said this was due to the need to upgrade services and considerable investment was being made to bring facilities in old buildings up to 21st century standards.
A public consultation process will begin in May to pave the way towards devising a statutory scheme for home care services for the elderly and people with a disability.
The minister said another focus this year will be GP services.
He would like to see a system where some GPs in rural and disadvantaged areas are salaried - rather than self-employed.
This may be the only way of getting around the shortage of family doctors in these areas, he said.
The committee's chairman, Dr Michael Harty, who is a GP in Co Clare, said many out-of-hours GPs have co-ops, because there are not enough doctors.
An "extremely ill" Limerick girl who was scheduled to have surgery to help correct a massive double curvature on her spine has had her operation delayed again.
Thirteen-year-old Megan Halvey-Ryan's plight sparked national outrage after she appeared on 'The Late Late Show' last month to highlight delays in her surgery.
Despite being on a surgical waiting list for the past 18 months, Megan received word from the HSE a few hours before her 'Late Late Show' appearance that her operation was booked for Thursday, March 9.
However, Megan's mother Sharon said that she received communication from the HSE on Tuesday, informing her that her daughter's surgery had been cancelled due to a high number of emergency surgeries scheduled at Crumlin Children's Hospital, Dublin.
Ms Halvey-Ryan said they have now been told Megan's surgery is rescheduled for March 23.
"Were devastated," she said.
Outlining her daughter's present condition, she said: "Megan is not great, she's very upset. She can't eat and she is finding it very hard to breathe and sleep at night."
Photos of Megan's twisted spine were shown with her permission on the 'Late Late Show' in order to raise awareness about scandalous delays on surgical waiting lists for scoliosis sufferers.
"She has an 83 degree thoracic curve on the top of her spine, and a 65 degree lumbar curve on the base of her spine," Ms Halvey-Ryan said.
Effect
"She has extreme high rib rotation and it is now having major effect on her organs - her bowel; her stomach; her lungs."
Yesterday the family were travelling to Crumlin children's hospital for an assessment.
Read more: 'Please minister, can I have my op?' - desperate plea of 12-year-old in pain
She said Megan's spinal curve is likely to be far worse than what it was eight months ago - the last time her daughter was assessed for surgery.
"She did the post-op assessment eight months ago; it's a medical assessment which will examine her respiratory system, and her bloods, and she'll undergo more X-rays on her spine," she said.
"We only found out two days ago that her surgery for March 9 was cancelled. We understand emergencies happening at the hospital, but if my daughter's scoliosis is not an emergency I don't know what is - in my opinion she is extremely ill.
"Scoliosis is considered an elective surgery so whenever there are a lot of emergency surgeries to be performed at the hospital the scoliosis patients get bumped down the list.
"It happens all the time."
Ms Halvey-Ryan added: "This has happened to us before. That's why I said (on the 'Late Late') that I was sceptical about Megan's surgery going ahead on March 9.
"I'll only believe it when she is actually on the operating table in the surgical theatre."
Fianna Fail TD Niall Collins said the news was "shocking".
INMO general secretary Liam Doran said yesterday the difficulties facing the recruitment and retention of nurses amount to a 'critical situation' and the union did not want to be in dispute. Photo: Tom Burke
Patients and hospitals will have to wait until tomorrow to find out if next week's threatened work-to-rule by nurses will go ahead.
The executive council of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO), whose 30,000 members are due to begin the action on Tuesday, will meet tomorrow afternoon to make a decision on the issue.
It follows the resumption of talks on the dispute that began at the Workplace Relations Commission yesterday.
The union is demanding incentives to ease the crisis in the recruitment and retention of nurses.
However, the oversight body on the Lansdowne Road Agreement has warned that industrial action would lead to a breach of the terms of the deal.
Some issues may have to be referred to the Labour Court for binding arbitration.
This would have implications for the 1,000 pay increase which nurses, along with other public services, are due to receive in April.
Health Minister Simon Harris said yesterday he hoped progress will be made in the talks but he also warned that there is "no new pot of money" for pay increases.
"If we have to find additional resources for pay measures above and beyond the Lansdowne Road Agreement measures agreed by Government, there is no new pot of money," he said.
It is estimated that the nurses' demands - which include payments for meal breaks, the return of the twilight allowance and the restoration of other allowances - would cost around 120m.
INMO general secretary Liam Doran said yesterday the difficulties facing the recruitment and retention of nurses amount to a "critical situation" and the union did not want to be in dispute.
Hospitals were continuing to draw up contingency plans yesterday in advance of the threatened action.
If the action goes ahead patients will be contacted about cancellations of surgery and other procedures from Monday.
The work-to-rule will mean nurses would refuse to move to replace shortages in various parts of the hospital and remain in their own wards or departments. This would lead to bed closures in order to ensure safety for patients.
An Irish missionary nun has been injured in an assault at a convent in the Philippines. Photo: GETTY
An Irish missionary nun has been injured in an assault at a convent in the Philippines, it has been reported.
According to the 'Sun Star' the victim was serving at the San Jose Parish Church in Midsalip town in the Zamboanga region when the attack took place.
Zamboanga del Sur Police Director Sofronio Ecaldre told the newspaper the victim was about to close the window of the convent shortly before 9.30pm yesterday when she was attacked by an unidentified person.
Mr Ecaldre said the nun told them that the man, who was wearing a mask, tried to cover her mouth and punched her in the face and chest.
She sustained multiple injuries and fell to the ground unconscious.
Police said the victim was hospitalised.
The investigation is ongoing to identify the person responsible for the attack.
The Irish Independent has attempted to contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Filipino police.
An Irish mother has described how her 17-month-old daughter fell ill and died from meningitis in a matter of hours. Limerick woman Ruth Melling lost her daughter Lola Jane Nagle just over two years ago. Next month her family and friends will host the second annual Lola's Ball in Limerick. This is her story:
"Lola Jane was a very happy, healthy little girl. On the night of the 14th of April 2015, Lola woke with a temperature. I brought her into bed with me as she was incredibly restless. She wasn't crying just wide awake staring at me and breathing funny. I couldn't seem to get her temperature down. She was just lying there.
The next morning, after no sleep, I knew she needed to go to the doctor. It was a crazy time at work for me as my boss was away so I had to get in and open up for everyone. So I left Lola with my husband went out to work, opened up, rang the doctor and headed straight back home for Lola.
When I got home she was still lying there and I noticed her breathing had got worse and a few purple marks on her neck. I immediately thought chicken pox, how wrong I was.
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I put Lola into the car and headed for the doctors, it's a drive I will never forget. I still see the way she was looking at me in the mirror sometimes when I close my eyes, I will never be able to describe it but I knew there was something seriously wrong with my little girl.
As her breathing became worse, I began to panic. I rushed into the doctors with her and I was shaking. Once I sat in the waiting room, I watched these purple spots take over her body and then her lips went blue. I ran to reception screaming her lips are blue her lips are blue.
I was rushed into nurses room and two doctors appeared. They put an oxygen mask on Lola, I kept crying what's wrong with her? They mentioned meningitis and I told them no, it can't be sure she's had all her injections.
They made me go outside for air and told me they were ringing an ambulance and to phone somebody to meet me at the hospital. At this stage I was numb I had no idea what was happening I just kept saying it couldn't be meningitis.
The ambulance arrived at the surgery and I took my little girl into my arms while they tried to control her breathing. This was the last time I held my baby alive.
The sirens went on and they told me it was only because of traffic. How naive I was to think everything was okay.
We got to the hospital where a team of doctors were waiting, she was whipped out of my arms and I was asked to sit while I watched them all around my baby. A lot of what happen after this is a blur. I sat alone in the room watching and still not realising what was going on. A few doctors tried to speak to me to tell me how serious it was but I heard nothing I was just numb.
I remember my husband arriving and trying to talk to me to tell me to say goodbye to our little girl. I couldn't move I couldn't get off the chair, and then she was gone. From 10am in the doctors surgery to 12pm in the hospital my baby was gone. How? Why? I don't think I will ever understand it, she was perfect only the day before so happy and full of life, my angel Lola Jane.
It's so strange. Lola was born six weeks premature and fought hard to stay with us. She had no lashes when she was born but by the time she left hospital to come home she was called Lola Lashes by all the nurses, they were beyond long.
I'm not sure if it was a sixth sense or maybe somehow I knew to protect her but I was a crazy overprotective mom when it came to Lola. Everyone that knows me knows how laid back I am, but with Lola I was constantly watching her, following her, she was never out of my sight.
I was so paranoid about her choking, that I did two first aid courses and wouldn't dare even give her a sausage. You would think I would be like that now with my son Scott, but no it was only Lola. I adored her, she was with my every minute, my special girl.
We had a very special bond and I miss her terribly. I can still hear her breathing and see the way she was looking at me in the car on the way to the doctors. I don't think it will ever leave my mind how scared she must have been.
Act for Meningitis have been an amazing support to our whole family, I have built a strong friendship with them and will continue to help in any way, to prevent this happening to someone else."
Lola's Ball will take place on April 22 at the Greenhills Hotel in Limerick. 'A gift for Lola' was set up to prevent another family going through the nightmare of losing a child by raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of Meningitis. To date it has raised over 35,000
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WHAT IS MENINGITIS?
Meningitis is inflammation of the lining around the spinal cord and the brain, caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
It is easily misdiagnosed as the symptoms can be flu-like, appear in any order and some may not appear at all, therefore we urge people to trust your instincts. Meningitis does not always produce a rash, if it does appear it will not fade under pressure.
While children aged under five are most at-risk, with 16-24 year olds the second highest at risk age group.
Symptoms of Meningitis can include: Fever, vomiting, headache, limb pain, neck stiffness, sensitivity to bright lights, confusion and in some cases a rash may appear.
For more information on Meningitis, our support services or to download the signs and symptoms card please visit here
The centenary of the sinking of the RMS Connaught by German torpedoes was commemorated in Dun Laoghaire today.
A brief ceremony was held at the First World War memorial in the Royal St George Yacht Club to remember those who died in the sinking on March 3, 1917.
The ship regularly brought passengers and mail between Dun Laoghaire and Britain until it was commandeered to carry troops from Southhampton to the battlefields of France during World War One.
Crew members from Dun Laoghaire, Dublin, and other parts of Ireland as well as Britain were on board the ship when it was struck by two torpedoes fired by a German submarine in the English Channel.
Father-of-four John Moran (33) from Crofton Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, was killed in the explosion caused by the first torpedo strike, along with two crew mates from Wales and the Channel Islands.
Among the 74 survivors were a large number of Irish crew members.
Two of the survivors, Joseph Inglis (41) from Dublin and Denis Whelan (45) from Dun Laoghaire lost their lives when the RMS Leinster was sunk by German torpedoes shortly after leaving Dun Laoghaire harbour the following year. The two men were among more than 550 people who died in the Leinster sinking.
The memorial ceremony was held at 1.45pm, the exact time of the attack 100 years ago, at the yacht club in Dun Laoghaire where Morans name is inscribed on the World War One memorial in the club. Moran was a member of the clubs staff before becoming a volunteer with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve.
Philip Lecane, author of Torpedoed! The RMS Leinster Disaster, spoke of the sinking in a lecture at the National Maritime Museum in Dun Laoghaire on Thursday.
He led the memorial ceremony tdoay. A guest at the ceremony was Robert Moran, a grandson of victim John Moran.
Though people are beginning to become aware of the sinking of the RMS Leinster, few are aware of the sinking of her sister ship," said Mr Lecane, a maritime historian who works as a volunteer at the museum.
"It is important to remember such events in Irelands maritime history," he said.
Plans are being made for the centenary of the sinking of the RMS Leinster on October 10 next year.. Relatives of those who sailed on the Leinsters final voyage can contact Philip Lecane through the website www.rmsleinster.com to be kept informed of plans for the centenary.
The RMS Connaught was sunk by German submarine U-48, under the command of Kapitanleutnant Berndt Buss (24). Buss and the submarines navigating officer were killed a few days later when the ship East Point rammed the U-48s conning tower.
The submarine torpedoed the East Point, dived and was coming up to torpedo another ship, when she was struck by the East Point, which was still afloat. After burying Buss and the navigating officer at sea, the U-48 returned to Germany.
An Irish missionary nun who was injured in an assault in the Philippines has been hospitalised in the city of Ozamiz and will require surgery in Manilla.
Sister Kathleen Melia (70), who is originally from Co Leitrim, has worked as a missionary in the Philippines for over 30 years.
She has been living in Subaneen Ministry of Midsalip since 1983 and only visits home once every three years.
According to local reports Sr Melia was serving at the San Jose Parish Church in Midsalip town in the Zamboanga region when the attack took place.
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Local Police Director Sofronio Ecaldre told a local newspaper that the victim was about to close the window of the convent shortly before 9.30pm on Wednesday when she was attacked by an unidentified person.
Mr Ecaldre said the nun told them that the man, who was wearing a mask, tried to cover her mouth and punched her in the face and chest.
She sustained multiple injuries and fell to the ground unconscious.
Sister Ann Gray who knows Sr Melia from her work with the Sisters of St Columban in Wicklow said her colleagues were shocked and very concerned.
She has been working in that area for over 30 years with the indigenous populations and she was very close to the people there.
She has always loved the people there. She always worked with a very mixed group of people in education, livelihood programmes and human rights programmes, she said.
Sr Brady said that Sr Melia is currently in her nearest city of Ozamiz where facilities are limited and is waiting to be transferred to Manilla where she will require surgery.
The procedure and transfer is completely normal, according to Sr Gray.
This hasnt really ever happened before and it will take her time to recover, she said.
However Sr Brady is confident that Sr Melia will be able to bounce back from the terrible incident.
She will make a recovery as she is in very good hands over there with the help of other sisters. She is very well looked after, she said.
The investigation is ongoing to identify the person responsible for the attack.
A spokeswoman for the Department of Foreign Affairs said this morning: "We are aware of the case and are providing consular assistance through our Honorary Consulate in Manila and the Embassy in Singapore which is accredited to the Philippines."
A teenager was rushed to hospital this morning after he was stabbed during an assault in a housing estate.
Gardai in Tallaght responded to an emergency call in Knockmore Grove at approximately 6am.
Here they discovered the man, aged in his late teens, who had received a single stab wound.
He was taken by ambulance to Tallaght Hospital where he was treated for non life-threatening injuries.
He was alone when gardai arrived on the scenes and officers are now searching for the assailant.
A garda spokeswoman confirmed that no arrests had been made.
She appealed for witnesses to contact Tallaght garda station on 01-6666000
The attack comes just over a week after an 85-year-old man was pulled from his car by a man and a woman in Tallaght. He received substantial injuries from a bread knife to his throat and face.
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Surgeons were also forced to remove half of his finger because of nerve damage caused during the attack when it was partially severed. The man also needed a blood transfusion during a five day hospital stay according to reports.
The attack on the innocent man happened in Tallaght on Wednesday, February 22.
A total of 886,716 households were paid the grant in 2015, accounting for 88,671,600. Stock Image
Households are still being paid the 100 Water Conservation Grant almost a year-and-a-half after the deadline for applications.
As Fine Gael and Fianna Fail remain at war over water, it emerged that payments of the grant, once branded a "sop" to "soften the blow" of charges, are still taking place.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has heard that payments continue to be made to householders who have an entitlement dating back to 2015.
John McCarthy, the secretary general of the Housing Department - which also has responsibility for water - told the PAC that water programme expenditure in 2015 included 94m for the Water Conservation Grant.
He said that as of June 20, 2015, the 1.3 million households registered with Irish Water were eligible for the 2015 grant.
The Social Protection Department - which administers the scheme - has made payments totalling just over 89m to 890,104 households.
"A small number of residual payments continue to be made to householders who have an entitlement to the 2015 Water Conservation Grant," Mr McCarthy added.
Last night, a spokesman for the Housing Department could not say how many households remain eligible to claim the grant.
"The Department of Social Protection processes the Water Conservation Grant on behalf of this department so we do not have immediate access to the data requested," he said.
"We understand that there is a small number of claims currently being processed... for reasons including appeals and out-of-date cheques."
The grant was announced in 2014 ahead of the introduction of water charges the following year. While the then-government insisted at the time it was a grant to assist with water conservation, Roisin Shortall argued in the Dail that the grant "has nothing whatsoever to do with conservation".
"It is, in fact, a sop to try to soften the blow and obtain some kind of political acceptance in respect of these charges," she said.
Householders could spend the grant on whatever they chose and it was also payable to people on group water schemes or with their own private supplies.
Payment of a Water Conservation Grant for 2016 did not take place due to the suspension of water charges under the confidence and supply agreement between Fine Gael and Fianna Fail.
Last night, the Department of Social Protection said that 886,716 households were paid the grant in 2015, accounting for 88,671,600.
In 2016, 3,387 households were paid 338,700, while so far in 2017, 16 months after the October 2015 closing date for applications, three households have been paid the grant.
Eligibility
A Social Protection spokeswoman said it continued to process outstanding payments from 2015 in cases where "the customer could satisfactorily demonstrate eligibility" in line the regulations governing the payment of the grant.
Any agreement on refunds of water charges thrashed out by the Oireachtas committee examining the future of water services would likely see repayments of the charges minus the 100 grant.
Mr McCarthy was appearing at the PAC to answer questions on his department's 2015 accounts. He told TDs that 222m was provided to Irish Water for spending on infrastructure projects.
A further 399m was allocated to Irish Water from the Local Government Fund as an "operational subvention".
He said this funded the allowance of 21,000 litres of free water provided to households per child. It also funded the cost of capping water charges, a decision that was made by the government the previous year. That subvention rose to 652.1m in 2016.
Almost one million households can expect water charge refunds of up to 325 as part of a compromise between Fine Gael and Fianna Fail.
The two parties remain at loggerheads over the total abolition of charges - but Housing Minister Simon Coveney now accepts there is no point chasing people with unpaid bills.
Mr Coveney previously said non-payers should be pursued because refunds would set "a dangerous precedent".
However, the Irish Independent understands he will cede ground on this issue as an olive branch to Fianna Fail.
One source estimated the cost of refunding bill payers at 162m.
Mr Coveney is also prepared to sign a ministerial order to extend the current suspension of water charges beyond March 31.
This would happen if a consensus on their abolition cannot be found in the coming days.
Read more: Niall O'Connor: FF keeps the rural vote on tap as water charge anger streams out
In a formal submission to be made to the Committee on the Future Funding of Water today, Fine Gael will continue to argue that charges must be retained for people who waste water.
In line with Mr Coveney's public statements over recent days, the party's negotiating team will state that some form of charging is necessary to avoid massive fines from the EU.
They want the 900,000 water meters already in the ground to be maintained, all newly built homes to have a meter installed and 'opt-in' opportunities for home owners who want to get a meter.
However, Fianna Fail's water spokesman Barry Cowen has told the Irish Independent his party believes Fine Gael "wants to retain the billing system as a method of capture". He said domestic meters should be considered redundant because "the regime is going and everything to do with it".
There is growing expectation that the water committee, chaired by Independent senator Padraig O Ceidigh, will not be able to reach a compromise on charges.
Sources on both sides of the debate expect the 20 members of the cross-party committee to be split down the middle on the issue.
Read more: Coveney hatches plan to turn tables on FF in battle over water bills
Crucially, Fianna Fail is insisting that excessive usage be dealt with through the 2007 Water Services Act, which provides for punishment for people who wilfully abuse and overuse water.
Mr Cowen said his party would be willing for amendments to be made to the act if necessary.
However, Mr Coveney believes this will not satisfy Ireland's legal requirements under the EU's Water Framework Directive.
Abolished
"Water charges are gone. They are going to be abolished," the minister admitted yesterday.
"Normal usage for households across the country will be paid for through normal taxation.
"But there needs to be consequences for people who waste large quantities of water.
"There's a legal obligation for that to happen but it's also the right thing to do."
He added that it "makes sense" to use existing meters to catch households wasting water.
Fine Gael's submission will state that the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) should be responsible for deciding what is considered excessive usage, but Fianna Fail wants the figure set by politicians.
"If the CER estimated the average person uses 123 litres a day, then excessive use should be set at three times.
"But that's just me having a stab at it," Mr Cowen said.
"That's us engaging with it, they're not."
The minister said he wanted to find "a middle ground that everybody can live with politically".
"I think there has been enough debate and division and angst on water without this being scaled up into something it shouldn't be," said Mr Coveney.
Despite protests, around 975,000 people paid domestic water charges at some stage during the five billing cycles before charges were suspended last summer.
The maximum paid by a single person under the scheme is 200, while a family paid up to 325.
Chloe Bolger is considering moving back to her hometown of Lille, France
A mother-of-one who had to wait almost two hours for an ambulance after falling seriously ill ten days after giving birth has made an emotional plea to Health Minister Simon Harris.
Chloe Bolger, who is now pregnant with her second child, says she is considering moving to France as she fears the same thing happening again.
Ms Bolger, originally from Lille, posted a video on YouTube explaining her ordeal - which was shown to Simon Harris when he visited University Hospital College Galway last Monday.
"When I finally recovered, the doctors in Mayo General told me that another 20 minutes' delay and I was gone, and that just shocked me to the core," she said.
Chloe was at home resting when she started to haemorrhage badly, ten days after giving birth to her daughter Lily.
Her husband Conor phoned an ambulance and she said when he asked how long it would be, the woman on the phone couldn't tell him.
"I wasn't in much pain, but I was losing that much blood I was really, really weak. The 999 operator, to be fair to her, recognised the seriousness of it and dispatched a Garda car to escort the ambulance on the way to the hospital in Castlebar," she said.
The ambulance eventually arrived one hour and 40 minutes after Conor's initial 999 call.
A delegation from the North West Connemara Ambulance Group along with local representatives met with the Health Minister.
In a statement following the meeting, the group described it as "constructive" and added that the minister appeared to be "shocked" at the details presented.
Minister Harris, they said, was to contact the National Ambulance Service, the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council, The Red Cross and was to reconvene with the Ambulance Group in a few weeks.
Ms Bolger was due to meet face-to-face with Mr Harris on Monday but her daughter Lily fell ill, so she uploaded a video to YouTube instead.
"Now that I am due to have my second child I am scared that this could all happen again.
"I don't want to leave Ireland. I love it here, but my safety and my baby's safety comes first".
Five men have been arrested over the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old girl.
The alleged attack took place in a Midlands town in December after she was offered a lift home.
Detectives arrested the five suspects on Wednesday.
All five males, who are aged between 17 and 20, were released without charge yesterday and a file on the case will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The alleged victim has been described as "extremely distraught and vulnerable" since the attack and is understood to come from a "loving and respectable family", sources said.
It is believed the girl got into a car in the town centre that was occupied by a man known to her.
She is not believed to have been forced into the vehicle.
It is alleged the girl was taken to another location and attacked by the men there.
The majority of the suspected attacks took place in this location. After the alleged gang rape, it is understood that the girl sought help and gardai were then notified of the incident.
A major investigation involving officers based in the Midlands then took place and CCTV footage was gathered and studied.
Forensic and other evidence was obtained by gardai.
It is understood that when all this evidence was gathered, senior officers decided to make the arrests this week.
The suspects - one 17-year-old, two 20-year-olds and two 19-year-olds - were all picked up by gardai on Wednesday and questioned at different stations in the Midlands before being released without charge yesterday evening.
They all live in the Midlands area and were not previously known for this type of offence.
The Central Statistics Office (CSO) said last year gardai recorded 2,442 sex offences - a rise of 13pc in the 12 months from June 2015 to June 2016.
A woman who helped save more than 1,000 migrants from the Mediterranean Sea was brought to tears when she described how she witnessed a young child being told her mother was dead.
Jill Hamilton (37), a communications operator, served on LE Roisin on a three-month humanitarian mission to aid migrants fleeing Syria and other Middle Eastern and African countries.
A month after the ship's departure, it responded to a request for help from the Italian Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre.
The flimsy rubber dinghy was located 37 nautical miles off the coast of Tripoli with 111 migrants on board.
Speaking from South Lebanon, the Co Cork native told the Irish Independent that the operation was particularly traumatic for her.
"What sticks out to me was that there was a child up on deck with her auntie looking for her mother. Unfortunately, that lady never made it.
"When they told the child and her auntie that the mother didn't make it, it was just traumatic," she said.
Ms Hamilton added that she feels the migration crisis deserves "a hell of a lot more attention".
Ms Hamilton, who has served 19 years in the Irish Naval Service, is now stationed in South Lebanon as part of the UN mandate force UNIFIL.
Traffic chaos on the roads this Friday evening. Stock picture
A number of collisions and widespread flooding are leading to traffic chaos throughout the country this evening.
AA Roadwatch is reporting a number of collisions leading to delays on some of Ireland's busiest roads.
In Dublin city, there are delays from Prospect Road inbound before the Whitworth Road junction due to an earlier crash.
There is also a crash partially blocking the Pearse Street/ Macken Street junction. Traffic can get by with extreme care.
The M50 is also very busy with slow-moving traffic.
There is a crash on the M50 northbound at J10 Ballymount, blocking the right lane. Delays from J12 Firhouse to J7 Lucan.
WEXFORD: Gardai have cleared a crash from the N11 Wexford/Dublin Rd on the Wexford side of Oilgate. https://t.co/xIOpAblVS1 AA Roadwatch (@aaroadwatch) March 3, 2017
Traffic is slow on the M50 southbound as far as J4 Ballymun and from the M50/M11 merge to J5 Bray North on the M11.
There is heavy traffic throughout Dublin city with delays on the Phibsborough Road, Swords Road, Amiens Street and along the canals.
CORK: Crash on the N40 South Ring Rd westbound at J8 Douglas has been cleared. Long delays on approach are easing. https://t.co/qvBPcgxUj8 AA Roadwatch (@aaroadwatch) March 3, 2017
In Kildare/Meath there are reports of a crash on the Enfield/Kinnegad Road (R148/Old N4) at Mother Hubbards. Traffic is down to one lane and gardai are directing traffic.
Meanwhile in Wexford, gardai are dealing with a crash northbound on the N11 Wexford/Dublin Road on the Wexford side of Oilgate.
DUBLIN: There is a breakdown at the top of the M50 southbound off ramp at J7 Lucan. https://t.co/qvBPcgxUj8 AA Roadwatch (@aaroadwatch) March 3, 2017
Also in Wexford, gardai are to close the N30 Enniscorthy/New Ross Rd from 7 to 9pm to deal with overturned truck on Enniscorthy side of Clonroche.
In Cork, there is a fuel spill on Station Road in Blarney that has reportedly been treated.
AA Roadwatch are reporting that in Westmeath, the Kilbeggan/Dalystown Road has reopened at Ballynagore following a crash.
Motorists are being warned to slow down and keep a safe distance as flooding and surface water has been reported on roads throughout the country.
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AA Roadwatch are asking drivers to reduce speed and increase the braking distance between you and the vehicle in front when driving on wet roads.
Met Eireann has issued a Status Yellow Rainfall Warning for Connacht and counties Donegal, Clare, Limerick, Kerry and Cork. This warning is valid until midday tomorrow.
There is also a Status Yellow Weather Advisory in place for Ireland with periods of heavy rain and some severe downpours forecast at times, especially in southwestern, western and northwestern counties with spot flooding. This warning is valid until 6pm today.
The site of a mass grave for children who died in the Tuam mother and baby home
Significant quantities of human remains have been discovered at a Galway site excavated by the Mother and Baby Homes Commission. This follows work by the Mother and Baby Homes Commission of Investigation which carried out planned excavations there.
What is the Commission?
The Mother and Baby Homes Commission of Investigation is currently probing how unmarried mothers and their babies were treated between 1922 and 1998 at 18 State-linked religious institutions.
It was established by the last government on February 17, 2015 and is chaired by Judge Yvonne Murphy.
The Commission was set up to establish the circumstances and arrangements for the entry of single women into mother and baby homes and to establish the living conditions they experienced there.
It has also been asked to examine mortality amongst mothers and children residing in these institutions and to compare it to the records on mortality amongst other relevant groups of women and children.
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Deaths
A small number of the remains discovered in Tuam were recovered for the purpose of analysis.
These remains involved a number of individuals with age-at-death ranges from approximately 35 foetal weeks to 2-3 years, said the Mother and Baby Homes Commission of Investigation.
Radiocarbon dating of the samples recovered suggest that the remains date from the time-frame relevant to the operation of the Mother and Baby Home. The homes ran from 1925 to 1961."
Burial of remains
A stratigraphic survey of the site which was conducted in October 2015 identified a particular area of interest and identified a number of sub surface anomalies that were considered worthy of further investigation.
These were further investigated by a test excavation in November/December 2016 and in January/February 2017.
Test trenches were dug revealing two large structures. One structure appears to be a large sewage containment system or septic tank that had been decommissioned and filled with rubble and debris and then covered with top soil.
The second structure is a long structure which is divided into 20 chambers.
The Commission has not yet determined what the purpose of this structure was but it appears to be related to the treatment/containment of sewage and/or waste water. The Commission has also not yet determined if it was ever used for this purpose.
Survivors
A confidential committee, which meets survivor groups and those who worked in the homes, was set up to shape the Commissions work.
Over 6,000 adoptions were recorded as having taken place in six mother and baby homes between 1950 and 1973.
The children went to a range of destinations including the US, Britain and Germany, as well as to homes across Ireland.
A caller named Thomas told RTE's Liveline that he was in the Tuam Mother and Baby Home.
"I was in The Mother and Baby Home June 3 1942. I was there until I was 5-years-old and I was fostered. I met my mother some years later after a long search. She kept her life in the home hidden from me. My understanding is that they had to work there until the baby was adopted or fostered. When you become six or seven you were sent elsewhere.
"Babies might be buried there that never came on the record."
Relatives
It has emerged that the relatives of children who died at the home were not informed that remains had been recovered.
A woman whose brother died in the home says the only official confirmation that remains were found came through the media today.
Anna Corrigan told The Irish Examiner she lost one brother in Tuam, and believes another was given for adoption in America.
Ms Corrigan said: "There was tweets up on social media that human remains had been found, the digger is in, photographs of the digger.
"I had to send these to judge Murphy and say 'is this the correct way to actually inform family members of what's happened with their family?'"
Government reaction
Responding to the development, Children's Minister Katherine Zappone said it was "very sad and disturbing news".
"It was not unexpected as there were claims about human remains on the site over the last number of years.
"Up to now we had rumours. Now we have confirmation that the remains are there, and that they date back to the time of the Mother and Baby Home, which operated in Tuam from 1925 to 1961," she said.
The Minister said that everybody involved must respond sensitively and respectfully to the situation.
What's next?
Minister Zappone's Department have brought together all of the key Departments and agencies to set out a way forward.
This will include the following:
- The Commission will continue its work under its terms of reference, including such matters as post mortem practices and procedures, reporting and burial arrangements for residents of Mother and Baby Homes.
- The Coroner for North Galway will take the steps he deems necessary under his independent statutory functions
- Galway County Council will engage with the Commission in relation to the immediate next steps on the site.
- Galway County Council will engage with local residents and other interested parties on what should happen next in relation to the remains.
- There will be an information line for factual information, and a service for those who feel personally affected by the news.
Ms Zappone said:Today is about remembering and respecting the dignity of the children who lived their short lives in this Home.
"We will honour their memory and make sure that we take the right actions now to treat their remains appropriately.
*Information and Counselling Services
There is dedicated telephone Information line being made available for people seeking further information over the coming days. Those seeking factual information may contact the Information Line @ Telephone 01-6473118 / 01-6473232 during Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm and Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.
Anyone affected can also directly contact the HSE information line on 1850-241-850.
Those seeking adoption information and tracing information may wish to visit the following sites:
Tusla (the Child and Family Agency) - www.tusla.ie or
The Adoption Authority of Ireland - www.aai.gov.ie.
Most people, when ordering a 50, 28 day dry-aged steak would want to savour the unique taste and get their money's worth. Though, as we're all aware, President Donald Trump is not most people.
Donald Trump likes his steak well done. Plenty of people like their steak well done and, by itself, this isn't really anything of note. But, in true Donald Trump form, he has to go one step further and has turned what originally started as a fairly average meal into nothing short of an abomination.
Not only does Trump like his steak extremely well done, he also allegedly likes it slathered in ketchup.
According to the Independent Journal Review while dining at BLT Steak by David Burke with Nigel Farage, Trump ordered: "A well-done steak. An aged New York strip. He ate it with catsup as he always does."
Twitter, understandably, was outraged by Trump's questionable dining choices but, in the grand scheme of things, eating well done steak with ketchup isn't even the weirdest thing Trump has done when it comes to food.
Eating KFC with a knife and fork, inventing items on the McDonald's menu, and skinning pizza before eating it, here are just a few of the times Trump has managed to turn the simple task of eating into something so much more...
Fried chicken
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In what was presumably an attempt to convince the rest of us mere mortals that his incredibly privileged life means nothing and that he is just like the rest of us, Trump once posted an image on Twitter of him tucking into a bucket of KFC.
Sadly, whatever press aide concocted this brilliant plan to make Trump more likeable neglected to send him a memo informing him that KFC supposed to be eaten with your fingers until they're slick enough with grease that you can see your own, mildly disgusted reflection staring right back at you.
It may be a bit of a stretch to state that Trump is a fan of KFC, but he did once describe it as "not the worst thing in the world" which is...something at least.
Pizza toppings
via GIPHY
Trump's love of pizza has been fairly well documented over the years. Do a quick YouTube search and you'll find advertisements from the 90s and early 2000s of Trump singing the praises of high-street pizza brands and, more recently, making a spectacle of himself on the internet (once again) by using a knife and fork to eat a slice.
Trumps explanation for his bizarre pizza eating habits? "I don't walk around with forks and knives and, frankly it was very comfortable. Plus this way you can take the top of the pizza off and you're not just eating the crust. I like not to eat the crust so we keep the weight down at least as good as possible." Which is a dramatic policy U-turn, considering he appeared in the first TV ads for Pizza Hut's Stuffed Crust.
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There you have it. Not only does Trump apparently skin the pizza before eating, he also, for some reason I can't quite make out, doesn't think it's possible to simply avoid eating the crust without the use of a knife and fork.
Either Trump's staff are involved in an extremely elaborate and amusing game of 'How Weird Can We Make Our Boss Look Before He Notices' or Trump genuinely doesn't know how to eat with his hands. Both seem like perfectly plausible options.
Very fried eggs
Everyone knows breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Everyone except Trump who actually goes out of his way to avoid it. Speaking to Fox News in 2016 he said: "If I can avoid breakfast, in terms of that, I will have a lunch but my big thing is dinner. Breakfast, Jesse, if I can avoid it, I'm very happy to do that."
On the rare occasion he does eat in the morning he keeps away from caffeine and instead indulges in either cereal or bacon and eggs. And, in true Donald Trump form, he has a special way of cooking his breakfast that most people would probably balk at: "I love bacon and eggs...Bacon medium and the eggs over-well."
That's eggs fried, flipped, fried again, flipped once more, and then fried again. No runny yolk. So sad!
Fish Delight
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Despite being a staple on the McDonald's menu since the early 60s, and arguably one of the best features on it, apparently millennials aren't all that familiar with the Filet-o-Fish. But never fear millennials, because it turns out you're not alone.
Leader of the Free World, Donald J. Trump, doesn't know what a Filet-o-Fish is. Technically.
At a press conference in 2016 he was asked to answer some "fun" quick-fire questions from a journalist. One of the questions involved fast-food chains and, obviously continuing on his foolhardy quest to seem like your Average Joe, Trump revealed he "enjoys the Fish Delight at McDonald's."
A simple and harmless answer to a simple and harmless question, right? Well yes, except the Fish Delight doesn't actually exist.
We have to assume Trump meant the Filet-o-Fish, a piece of breaded fish fillet, topped with cheese and tartar sauce on a grilled bun, or maybe he has access to a secret menu there rest of us aren't privy to and the Fish Delight really does exist...
Meatloaf sandwiches
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If you're ever invited to a picnic with Trump, make sure to pack a meatloaf sandwich because it's his favourite. Allegedly, on his birthday, his sister even will make him a special meatloaf using the Trump secret recipe.
While Trump's eating habits when it comes to meatloaf aren't that strange, his insistence on making those around him eat it is a little odd. According to Tom Barrack, a longtime friend of Trump's, he is making all his friends who visit the White House try his favourite dish.
Jersey Governor Chris Christie also confirmed this, giving the White House kitchen's meatloaf a stamp of approval: "This is what it's like to be with Trump. He says 'there's the menu, you guys order whatever you want,' and then he says 'Chris, you and I are going to have the meatloaf.' The meatloaf was good."
Pork chop lollipops
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Furthering the 'Donald Trump Doesn't Know How To Eat With His Hands' agenda, here we look at Trump's love of foods skewered on a stick.
Not kebabs - that would be too normal - but great big slabs of meat pierced with a wooden stick for Trump to gnaw on the way you might enjoy a lollipop.
Apparently pork on a stick is a specialty in Iowa, where Trump is pictured eating, but it's still a little odd.
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Fiona Morris (28) has lived with an eating disorder for more than 12 years but is now in a healthy place.
An Irish woman who survived anorexia nervosa has criticised media organisations who publish photographs and information about sufferers at their lowest weight.
Fiona Morris (28) from Greystones battled with anorexia for more than 12 years and said that publishing photographs of those living with eating disorders at their sickest is "dangerous".
The Greystones local said she has often been asked what she weighed when she was ill and said the focus on weight gives the impression that all sufferers are extremely thin, which isnt the case.
Speaking to Independent.ie, Fiona said: "I really believe in the importance of getting rid of this idea that someone has to be stick thin or morbidly obese in order to have an eating disorder."
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"You cant tell whether or not someone has an eating disorder just by looking at them because eating disorders can appear in so many shapes and sizes. The perception that only people who are stick thin have real eating disorders is actually dangerous," she said.
The Wicklow woman said that publishing before photos of people battling with eating disorders can prove as aspiration to those struggling, and convince others that their behaviours are normal when they might not be.
"By publishing 'before' pictures, someone who doesnt look like the sufferers in these images might continue on with their behaviours, either convincing themselves that they dont have a problem because they dont look unwell, or that in order to get help, they must continue to the point when they look like they have an eating disorder."
Fiona's battle with multiple eating disorders eroded every aspect of her life for 12 years, but now, she is in a healthy place. Fiona said the showcasing of 'before and after' photographs by the media is something that needs to be changed.
"Expressing my own eating disorder through pictures, food diaries and weights is not helpful.
"If someone doesn't eat what I did, doesnt look the way I looked or doesnt weigh what I weighed, that doesnt mean they don't have an eating disorder.
"Eating disorders are disorders of the mind, a mental illness that manifest in food and weight behaviours. Food and weight are a byproduct of an inner turmoil, a compulsion, a security blanket and a strategy system for dealing with the internal pain and outside world.
"The body is just an injured bystander."
For information and support on Anorexia Nervosa or other eating disorders visit www.seechange.ie or www.bodywhys.ie or call the Irish Helpline on: 1890 200 444
Some years ago, I attended a stand-up comedy gig in Dublin during which the comedian began picking on different members of the audience.
Upon selecting one well-scrubbed youngster who looked like his mother had knitted him, the comic asked: "So what do you do, sir?"
He replied: "I'm an estate agent actually."
Upon hearing this, the audience simply erupted - into loud booing and hissing at a genuinely heated level. The cacophony of abject hostility rattled both the poor young lad and his tormentor on stage.
For a variety of reasons, Ireland doesn't like estate agents. And we're not alone. A survey last year in the UK showed that the most universally unpopular jobs were (predictably), No 1 most hated - politicians, No 2 most hated - journalists! and in the No 3 most hated spot came estate agents... ahead of bankers, lawyers, taxi drivers, car clampers, bouncers and debt collectors.
A long serving Dublin-based estate agent in his 40s said: "The hardest part of the job is the almost universally held perception that you are some sort of crook, no matter what. There's also the idea that your profession is to blame for property prices being high. There's also a lot of misunderstanding about what we actually do. So when you go to the pub on a Saturday and someone asks you what you do, you will spend the next three hours being verbally lynched. I have to admit that I often lie about my job in order to have a peaceful night out."
That's why your average estate agent sometimes tells you they're "in computers" rather than reveal what they really do.
Property, particularly if you are selling your own home or trying to buy one, is an emotive issue. This serves to heighten and personalise the feelings experienced by those involved as both buyers and vendors. And when emotion collides with the myriad misconceptions that hover around the profession of estate agency, the mix can be an unfortunate one for the incumbent.
First up comes the fact that those viewing a house for sale almost always forget that the estate agent showing them the property does not actually work for them. He or she is employed by the vendor of the house and their job is to get the highest price they can on behalf of their client. They are not put site to cater for the needs of the home viewer, although they will help when they can.
Then comes the skewed idea that houses 'sell themselves' and that the estate agent on the scene does nothing more than smile and open and close the door to let you in and out. But the agent is also there to gauge your kudos as a house buyer - how serious you are and whether you have your financial affairs in order, whether your current house is soundly sold or not and, generally, if all your ducks are in a row. Because once again, the estate agent is working solely for the vendor. Assessing individual viewers and buyers and selecting the best option from them is a particular skill set that goes largely unrecognised by both vendor and buyer. The agent must also negotiate and go back and forth to generate a deal, and later (people forget) keep it alive. The estate agent spends more than half of his or her time patching together deals which have already been agreed. Diplomatic skills are paramount.
And lately, the age thing has come into it.
Many vendors are particularly irked when a young chap in a suit turns up to show their house. In a profession that has seen its ranks decimated after the property crash, it has become increasingly difficult for estate agencies to get staff. While entrants to the profession must latterly have a relevant third level qualification, they also get paid a hell of a lot less than they did in the boom years.
Back then, a successful junior could make 40,000 per annum plus 3pc commission. Today, they enter their trade at 12,000 per annum for the first six or 12 months. If they're any good, they might end up on a 25,000 basic for the first few years with commission of 10pc on the agency's earning from the sale. It's not a whole lot of money if you're planning to buy a home of your own and raise a family.
For this money, most estate agents work six 12-hour days per week. Because Saturday is a big viewing day, they will also work it and, if they sell new homes, then they're on site on Sundays as well. They must deal with emotionally charged and paranoid potential buyers who think they're the baddie out to swindle them.
Another estate agent I know says: "A difficult part of the job is to let bidders go. You will know why they are being ruled out and you know why the rival is presenting a superior package. But often confidentiality rules which govern the profession mean you can't tell people what's going on behind the scenes. They simply assume you have shafted them."
Agents spend hours in traffic - a big issue if you are relying on commission to pay your bills. They must be immaculately turned out every day. Most agencies are now understaffed so staff must cover more viewings. And most of all, they must keep smiling - whatever we think of them.
IRISH people are good with words. And we're especially good at adjusting them so that they mean what we want them to mean. Take the word "contemporary" for example. It's bandied around a great deal, especially regarding kitchen design.
According to the most recent Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, more than half the Irish people who changed the style of their kitchen in 2016 updated to a "contemporary" style. Or at least that's what they said when they filled in the survey. But what does "contemporary" actually mean?
As it turns out, it means different things in different countries. An interior designer with IKEA once talked me through this. In mainland Europe, he explained, the word "contemporary" is used to describe severely minimalist kitchens. If a German couple want a "contemporary" kitchen, they expect straight lines and clean edges.
Then IKEA opened its Ballymun outlet in 2009 and Irish people flocked in. Many of them asked to see "contemporary" kitchens. When they were shown the European model, they backed away in horror.
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It was all just too stark.
Fairly rapidly, the retail team at IKEA Ireland copped on that the problem was in the terminology. When Irish people said that they wanted a "contemporary" kitchen, they weren't looking for hard core modernism. What they really wanted was a less embellished version of a traditional kitchen.
What people mean when they refer to a "traditional" kitchen isn't any better defined. In the Houzz survey, 36pc of Irish respondents said that they'd updated their kitchen in a "traditional" style. That could mean anything! Most people know what sort of kitchen they like - it's usually an updated version of the one that they grew up with - they just don't know what to call it.
The language used in kitchen brochures doesn't help at all. Here's an example. The kitchen manufacturer Neptune describes their updated Henley kitchen as a "traditional" kitchen "re-imagined in contemporary industrial style." If that's not confusing enough, their website gets completely bogged down: "Whatever you like to call it: organic modernism, a contemporary classic or clean rustic" Actually, the Henley is an unfussy kitchen design that will set you back between 20,000 and 25,000 (on average and excluding appliances). It looks smart, it's made of oak, and it won't annoy the mammy.
"People here will often say that they've got a "contemporary" kitchen - and all they mean is that they've got a new one!" says Lisa Johnston. She's one half of the cabinet-making studio, Cillian Johnston - her husband Cillian is the other half.
All Cillian Johnston kitchens are bespoke, individually designed for the client and made by hand. Their clients would typically spend between 45,000 and 50,000 on an entire kitchen project - that includes an estimated 15,000 on appliances. According to the Houzz report, more than one in 10 Irish homeowners spent more than 50,000 on their kitchen renovation in 2016 and another fifth spent between 25,000 and 50,000.
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But the big spenders are no more fans of high modernism than the rest of us. Johnston's perception is that most of her clients' tastes fall somewhere "country" - that's your traditional rustic kitchen with lots of natural wood - and a style that she describes as "Hamptons."
The "Hamptons" style is named for the New England coastal villages and distinguished by handmade Shaker-style cabinetry, often painted white. The Shakers were known for their creative cabinetmaking. In a modern context, this can include pocket-door systems - the door slides back into the cabinet instead of swinging from a hinge - and sliding countertops, which pull out to create a temporary extended workspace. Johnston finds that the simple but dignified style sits well in Georgian houses. Once again, Irish people know what they like - they just don't know the terminology. "A Hamptons style kitchen would be described as contemporary here!" she explains.
According to the Houzz survey, the predominant colours of Irish kitchen cabinets are conservative: grey (26pc), white (24pc), and beige (10pc). Yawn. Internationally, kitchen colours are a bit more varied and Johnston has noticed a trend for kitchen cabinets in racing car green. "It's often themed with gold lacquered fittings, but it's not really hit Ireland yet," she says.
One emerging trend, although it's not mentioned in the survey, is for black kitchen cabinets. "We've been pushing it for years," says Johnston. "People think that it's going to be intimidating but it's very do-able." Rather than a flat painted surface, which would be too black for most tastes, she favours a stain that combines depth with a sense of luxury. "It's not very, very black. There's warmth and there's comfort."
If you like black but can't afford handmade cabinetry the new Kungsbacka kitchen from IKEA comes in a matt black finish described as anthracite. But the kitchen's main selling point isn't blackness. The cabinet fronts, which also come in other colours, are made from reclaimed industrial wood and recycled plastic bottles.
Stockists for Neptune are listed on neptune.com and will soon include a new outlet at Trevor Morrow Furnishings in Ballina, County Mayo, which will open in April 2017. See also cillianjohnston.com, ikea.ie and houzz.ie.
WIN: A trip for two to cheer on Ireland at the Six Nations in Cardiff with Aer Lingus!
In our fifth RBS Six Nations competition in partnership with Aer Lingus on bringing #HomeAdvantage wherever Ireland play, we have another fantastic competition with the prize of return flights, airport transfers in Cardiff to and from your 4 star hotel where you will receive two nights accommodation and two match tickets to cheer Ireland taking on Wales in Cardiff for one lucky rugby lover and their guest!
The winner will receive this amazing package for two and must be available to depart for Cardiff on Friday 10th March at 10am, returning on Sunday March 12th at 3:10pm.
Winners are responsible for their own transport to and from Dublin airport. Further terms and conditions apply, these are available within the rules section of the below form. Competition closes Wednesday March 8th at 2pm.
To be in with a chance of winning this great prize, simply enter your details and answer the question within the following form.
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Jane Fonda has given an interview to mark International Women's Day
Actress Jane Fonda has revealed she is a rape survivor and suffered sexual abuse as a child.
The two-time Oscar-winner said she was also fired once because she refused to have sex with her boss.
Fonda, 79, made the revelations in an interview with Academy Award-winning actress Brie Larson to mark International Women's Day on March 8.
She told The Edit magazine: "To show you the extent to which a patriarchy takes a toll on females, I've been raped, I've been sexually abused as a child and I've been fired because I wouldn't sleep with my boss and I always thought it was my fault - that I didn't do or say the right thing.
"I know young girls who've been raped and didn't even know it was rape. They think, 'It must have been because I said no the wrong way'.
"One of the great things the women's movement has done is to make us realise that (rape and abuse is) not our fault. We were violated and it's not right."
Barbarella star Fonda also spoke about her regrets as a mother to three children - Vanessa, Troy and Mary.
She told The Edit: "I regret that I wasn't a better parent.
"I didn't know how to do it. But you can learn, so I studied how to be a parent.
"It's never too late. I am trying to make up for what I didn't know before.
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"When I die, I want my family to be around me. I want them to love me and I have to earn that. I'm still working at it."
Fonda, who won best actress Oscars for her roles in Klute and Coming Home in the 1970s, b ecame an activist at the age of 31 to oppose the Vietnam War.
She told Larson she had concerns that a Hollywood "blacklist" could return.
"When I found out what was really happening in Vietnam I didn't care if I ever worked again. I considered leaving the business to become a full-time activist," Fonda said.
"My father was terrified for me. He remembered the 50s when people's careers were destroyed.
"It's possible the (Hollywood) blacklist will be brought back."
Meghan Markle attends the 12th annual CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Awards at Spring Studios on November 2, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew Toth/Getty Images)
Things appear to be heating up for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry as she has travelled to Jamaica to join him for his best friend's wedding, it has been reported.
Harry jetted to Montego Bay on Wednesday to take part in the celebrations, while the Suits star followed him over on Thursday, according to the Daily Mail.
The three-day event is set to be "the mother of all parties," according to a source, and is the ideal opportunity for Meghan to meet Harry's close friends.
"This the first time that she and Harry have socialised so openly as a couple and is a significant step up in their relationship," said a source.
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"Make no mistake, he is heads over heels about her. This one could go all the way."
The Toronto-based actress has been dating the fifth in line to the throne for the past nine months, and they are said to be "practically living together" in London.
Harry (32) confirmed he was dating Meghan in an official Kensington Palace statement in November and the pair was photographed hand-in-hand for the first time in December.
Met Eireann has issued two national weather warnings ahead of the weekend as heavy rainfall and bitterly cold conditions are set to continue from today onwards.
Donegal, Clare, Cork, Kerry and Limerick are set to be the worst affected - with about 30 to 40mm of rain expected.
The weather warning is in place until 12pm on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the national forecaster has also issued a weather warning for the entire country as cold and very unsettled weather is set to hit all counties.
Snowy conditions could spread from Donegal as far as Kerry today - with heavy rain expected to wash out the rest of the country this weekend.
Forecasters at Met Eireann expect snow and sleet in hilly areas across the western side of the country over the course of today.
And while the rest of the country will avoid the brunt of this wintery weather, rain is certain to be a regular presence all over for the remainder of the weekend.
Met Eireann forecaster John Eagleton told the Independent.ie that remaining indoors may be the best option over the next couple of days.
"If you're going out, prepare for it. It's not going to be too windy though," Mr Eagleton said.
"Maybe just Friday (snow), more in the high ground in the west, it'll be coldest there. There'll be a slight bit of wet snow, it's possible."
While some dry spells are anticipated over the course of Saturday, Sunday's weather will be a write-off.
"It's not going to be a great weekend. There's a lot of low pressure so we're going to get a lot of rain at times, though there'll be some dry periods too," Mr Eagleton said.
"There'll be a bit of sunshine, but there'll also be a lot of rain around throughout both Saturday and Sunday, it'll be quite unsettled," he added.
Temperatures in the east of the country will range between six and eight degrees, but will drop to as low as two degrees in the west over the course of the next three days.
This is not uncommon for this time of the year, according to Mr Eagleton.
"You know March itself, you can get anything, so I wouldn't say it's unusual for March," he said.
"You think of St Patrick's Day, they've varied a lot haven't they? Some cold ones and some lovely ones.
"I think Monday will be a good day but it's changeable for the rest of the week."
The Black Country Ale Tairsters celebrate visiting their 20,000th pub after setting off on a pub-crawl three dacades ago, at the Knot and Plough in Stafford.
The Black Country Ale Tairsters celebrate visiting their 20,000th pub at the Knot and Plough in Stafford after setting off on a pub-crawl three dacades ago
Britain's most committed pub-crawlers have chalked off their 20,000th boozer - three decades after setting off to tour just 300 inns listed on a brewery map.
Members of the Black Country Ale Tairsters - who dossed down in a graveyard following their inaugural visit to a pub in Wales in 1984 - arrived in a minibus to toast their latest milestone at the Knot and Plough in Stafford.
The group's co-founder Pete Hill was among those who considered calling time on the epic odyssey in 1985 after successfully ticking off hundreds of ale houses run by Wolverhampton-based Banks's.
But the friends decided to press on - darkening the door of more than 1,000 pubs in Herefordshire and Worcestershire before embarking on a tour of Britain's coastline and then every bar in Wales.
As more than a dozen members of the group raised a glass to their 20,000th pub, Mr Hill celebrated with a pint of Marston's 61 Deep pale ale.
The retired engineer - whose father Joe died in 2014 after fulfilling his ambition of "conquering" Wales - has knocked back 46,632 pints during the Tairsters' journey.
The 60-year-old said: "Last May when we'd done 19,000 I took my lump sum out of my pension to get to 20,000 and I have spent the bloody lot.
"Today is a bit emotional to be honest because it was my dad's ambition to get to 20,000 and it would have been his birthday tomorrow."
Mr Hill, who has collected around 24,000 for charity from licensees around Britain by asking for a 1 donation at each pub, joked: "I am the Samuel Pepys of my day. On every pub crawl everything is documented - from the beers in the pub to the decor.
"Every detail is recorded."
The unofficial group leader regards an ability to drink a gallon of beer as a minimum requirement for membership and advises drinkers to make a will before joining up.
"You never know when you might go the way of Oliver Reed," he said. "He's the hero - though I try not to go over 1,500 pints a year.
"If I'm in danger of going over the annual limit I stop in for a couple of days.
"And I had to keep to my local for the past two weeks to make sure today was the 20,000th different pub."
The West Bromwich-based Tairsters (Black Country dialect for tasters) moved its focus to 12 Midlands counties in 1991 before embarking on a seven-year tour of Wales in 2006.
Several veterans of the group, including stalwarts John Drew, 53, and 72-year-old Malcolm Maynard, attended the event at the Knot and Plough, where they were given free beer.
A spokesman for Marston's, which runs the two-year-old pub, said: "Pete and his friends' journey is a brilliant achievement.
"The fact he's raised thousands for good causes while having a great time is a tribute to him and the Great British pub."
The full list of people targeted will be published in the EU's official journal on Saturday
The European Union has extended sanctions against 15 people in Ukraine accused of misusing state funds.
The EU said in a statement that the asset freezes are being prolonged for a year for people "identified as responsible for the misappropriation of Ukrainian state funds or for the abuse of office causing a loss to Ukrainian public funds".
Sanctions against former Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych and senior members of his administration were first introduced in March 2014 and have been extended annually since.
Mr Yanukovych fled to Russia in February 2014 after protests in which more than 100 people died.
The full list of people targeted will be published in the EU's official journal on Saturday.
AP
MYSTERY AT SEA: IT consultant Daniel Belling and his wife Li Yinglei, who vanished during a family cruise in the Med on board the MSC Magnifica Picture: Kyran O'Brien
Italian prosecutors investigating the disappearance of a woman from a Mediterranean cruise have alleged that she was killed by her husband on the second night of the trip.
Dublin-based IT worker Daniel Belling (45) is being held in custody in connection with the disappearance of his Chinese wife Xiang Lei Li.
The Irish Daily Star reports that police have also alleged that the German national killed Ms Li as they were having severe financial difficulties in Dublin.
State prosecutor Maria Tamburelli, according to Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, claims Mr Belling killed his wife on board on February 10 - a day after they embarked on the MSC Magnifica cruise ship.
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Whatsapp Li Yinglei (inset) disappeared during a Mediterranean cruise with her husband and two young children. Credit: Facebook
She also claims the couple and their kids dined together at the Four Winds restaurant on board but did not turn up for breakfast the next morning.
On February 20, Mr Belling disembarked the ship with his two children, but without Ms Li.
Police arrested Mr Belling at Ciampino Airport in Rome as he was about to board a Ryanair flight home with his children.
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Staff working on board the ship say there was no trace of Ms Li after February 10 - nor was there any sign of her on the ship's CCTV system.
Efforts are now being made to repatriate the two children who are currently in the care of Italian social services.
Mr Belling and Ms Li had been living in an apartment block near the Clare Hall shopping centre in Dublin for several years.
Mr Belling worked as an IT consultant to firms such as Apple while Ms Li set up her own wedding planning business targeted at the Chinese community in the city.
Their two young sons were born here.
Mr Belling's lawyer Luigi Conti claims his client did not kill his wife and that Ms Li was a missing person.
FORMER French prime minister Alain Juppe was poised to replace Francois Fillon yesterday as investigators searched the home of the scandal-hit centre-right presidential candidate and allies deserted him.
Sources close to Mr Juppe, who had previously ruled out being a "plan B", told 'Liberation' newspaper he had reconsidered because of the deepening crisis in the Republicains party provoked by Mr Fillon's refusal to stand aside.
A day after Mr Fillon revealed that judges will place him under formal investigation later this month over allegations that he illegally employed his British wife and children at taxpayers' expense, detectives searched his home in the capital's elegant 7th arrondissement.
His presidential bid appeared close to collapse as more than 20 centre-right MPs and councillors publicly withdrew support for him and key members of his campaign team quit.
About 20 mayors also urged him to stand aside in favour of another candidate better placed to regain the Elysee Palace.
Allies of Mr Juppe, who came second to Mr Fillon in the primaries, said he was "ready but loyal" and would only step in if asked to do so by the beleaguered candidate.
With an opinion poll indicating that three-quarters of voters would prefer Mr Fillon to withdraw, senior figures in his party fear that he will be knocked out in the first round of voting at the end of next month.
Polls suggest that would leave Marine Le Pen, the Front National leader, to face Emmanuel Macron, an independent centrist, in a second-round showdown.
Still defiant, Mr Fillon responded that his "support base is holding" as he addressed a rally of 3,000 supporters in the southern city of Nimes last night. "You see before you a fighter," he declared. "I will never give up."
Mr Juppe had previously been blocked from seeking to take over by Nicolas Sarkozy, the former president.
Mr Sarkozy yesterday appeared to suspend his objections. His ally, the MP Georges Fenech, said he was now supporting Mr Juppe because he could not accept "his political family being taken hostage".
The Republicains party was thrown into chaos after Mr Fillon vowed to fight on until the election in less than two months. In a defiant speech on Wednesday, he attacked the justice system for seeking his "political assassination".
Some of Mr Fillon's supporters were alarmed by his plan to hold a rally in Paris on Sunday to protest against "the coup d'etat by the judges".
President Francois Hollande warned him not to turn his meetings into demonstrations against the judiciary.
Mr Macron announced a full manifesto yesterday while Ms Le Pen gave a speech on "intelligent protectionism", calling for the nationalisation of France's public debt. "Everywhere, from Donald Trump's America, to Narendra Modi's India, from Xi Jinping's China to Theresa May's United Kingdom, economic patriotism is prevailing," she said.
One of the first opinion polls partly taken after Mr Fillon's legal woes deepened on Wednesday - when adviser Bruno Le Maire quit his campaign - showed his support dipping below 20pc for the first time in a week.
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Two major newspaper representative groups have condemned the arrest in Turkey of a German newspaper correspondent.
The World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA) and the World Editors Forum (WEF) have called for the immediate release of Deniz Yucel.
Mr Yucel, a dual national Turkish-German journalist for Die Welt, was arrested in Turkey on charges of spreading propaganda in support of a terrorist organisation and inciting the public to violence.
The journalist was initally detained on February 14 after reporting on the hacking of Turkish Energy Minister Berat Albayraks private emails. Mr Albayrak is also the son-in-law of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
On Monday, an Istanbul judge filed for Mr Yucel to be remanded in custody and, later that evening, the court ordered him to be detained pending trial.
According to reports, the court has also accused the journalist of propaganda on behalf of the Kurdistan Workers party (PKK), a designated terror group fighting an insurgency against the Turkish state, partly because of an interview he conducted two years ago with Cemil Bayk, one of the PKKs founders.
Mr Yucel has regularly written about the Turkish government's treatment of ethnic Kurds.
According to WAN-IFRA and WEF the Turkish media has been victim of a crackdown on fundamental freedoms in recent years, in particular following a failed coup attempt in July 2016.
According to local reports over 150 journalists have been jailed as a result of the authorities actions, with many thousands more now unemployed as a result of the enforced closure of numerous media outlets.
In a statement WAN-IFRA said: Under the pretext of protecting national security, it is clear that the Turkish authorities in fact aim to shut down critical debate in the country and further entrench the increasingly authoritarian rule of President Erdogan.
The statement continued: We deplore the situation facing our Turkish colleagues, while this latest step of jailing a foreign correspondent only serves to further underline the desperate need for the Turkish government to stop its deliberate and targeted campaign against the press. WAN-IFRA calls for the immediate release of Deniz Yucel and all journalists imprisoned or facing trial in Turkey simply for carrying out their professional duties.
The statement from WAN-IFRA comes on the back of a meeting with Antonio Guterres, the new Secretary General of the United Nations on February 23.
WAN-IFRA, RSF and CPJ urged the Secretary General to consider the creation of a Special Representative for the Protection of Journalists, part of whose role would be to act as an emergency response mechanism wherever, and whenever journalists may be threatened.
At this time, there is a growing need for solidarity around the issues affecting the safety and protection of journalists, particularly within the context of the UN Action Plan on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
"The Plan itself calls for a more cohesive, multi-stakeholder approach to tacking and addressing the issues; this includes state actors, and the Turkish authorities are sending all the wrong signals that they do not take these efforts seriously. By continuing to jail and harass journalists, shut down media outlets and undermine press freedom, Turkey is in fact working against common efforts to better protect the profession of journalism.
Former Haitian president Rene Preval, the only democratically elected president of Haiti to win and complete two terms, has died at the age of 74.
Current President Jovenel Moise confirmed Preval's death in a Tweet on Friday.
"I learned with sadness the death of former president Rene Preval," Moise said on his Twitter account. "I prostrate myself before the remains of this worthy son of Haiti."
The cause of death was not given. Preval had been treated for prostate cancer in Cuba in 2001.
Preval was elected by a landslide in 1995 as the chosen successor of Jean-Bertrand Aristide.
His second term, which started in 2006, was marred by the disastrous earthquake of January 12 2010, which reportedly killed more than 310,000 people and displaced more than one million. Many Haitians accused him of a fumbling response to the tragedy.
Preval was born on in the rural Haitian town of Marmelade in 1943 and trained as an agronomist before his career in politics.
His survivors include his third wife, Elisabeth "Babette" Delatour, and two adult daughters.
AP
Calais Mayor Natacha Bouchart signed an order on Thursday declaring the area near the closed camp off-limits, in part to prevent "violent acts"
Aid groups feeding migrants in the northern French port city of Calais are defying a municipal order to stop.
Hundreds of migrants have trickled back to Calais since authorities evacuated the makeshift camp housing thousands in October.
Aid organisations have been feeding them near the old camp site.
Seven aid groups said on Friday that they are distributing meals because authorities "don't respect their own (humanitarian) obligations".
They said the meals can prevent "eventual desperate acts" that Calais City Hall fears.
Calais Mayor Natacha Bouchart signed an order on Thursday declaring the area near the closed camp off-limits, in part to prevent "violent acts".
Francois Guennoc of aid organisation Auberge des Migrants said the groups have changed meal distribution spots and would do so nightly, if needed, to evade police.
AP
President Donald Trump has called for "an immediate investigation" into senior Democrat Charles Schumer's ties to Russian resident Vladimir Putin.
The president tweeted a photo of the two men holding coffee and doughnuts at a New York City petrol station and called the Senate Minority Leader "a total hypocrite".
Mr Trump did not say where the photo came from but Mr Schumer quickly pointed out that it was taken in 2003 when Mr Putin ventured to New York to celebrate the opening of a Russian-owned Lukoil petrol station in Manhattan.
Mr Schumer, in his own tweet, said he would "happily talk" under oath about his meeting with Mr Putin, which took place "in full view of press and public".
He then challenged Mr Trump to do the same and a short time later posted a follow-up in which he further poked fun at the photo, noting: "And for the record, they were Krispy Kreme donuts."
On the same trip to the United States in 2003, Mr Putin travelled to Camp David, Maryland, where he met with Republican president George W Bush and the two held a joint news conference.
Mr Trump's tweet came just hours after the conservative website Drudge Report made the photo its lead image.
And that was a day after the photo was unearthed by the pro-Trump blog Gateway Pundit, which ran it with the headline "Where's the outrage?"
Trump targeted congressional Democrats for their encounters with Russians over the years even though the party's criticism of Attorney General Jeff Sessions centred on his failure to acknowledge his meetings when questioned at his Senate confirmation hearing and in written responses to the Judiciary Committee.
"I think he was asked a pretty straightforward question at his committee hearing and I do think he should resign," Senator Bernie Sanders said in an interview.
Mr Trump also tweeted on Friday about House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, who was among the first to call for Mr Sessions to resign.
In his tweet, Mr Trump linked to a 2010 photo in which Ms Pelosi and other lawmakers are shown meeting with Russian officials, including then-president Dmitry Medvedev and ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Mr Trump demanded an investigation of the House minority leader. Ms Pelosi had initially denied ever meeting Mr Kislyak but her spokeswoman later clarified that they never had a one-on-one meeting.
Ms Pelosi then needled Trump by saying he did not "know the difference" between an official meeting photographed by the press and a "secret" meeting that Mr Sessions "lied about under oath".
Mr Sessions said on Thursday he would recuse himself from Russia probes after it was revealed that he had conversed with Russia's ambassador twice during last year's campaign, a contradiction of his testimony during his Senate confirmation hearings.
But that move has not satisfied many Democrats, who have called for Mr Sessions's resignation. They also demanded an independent investigation into the Trump campaign's ties to Russia.
AP
The aftermath of the shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando (AP)
The wife of the Orlando nightclub gunman has been ordered to remain in jail for the time being.
A federal judge issued the ruling in Florida, a day after a magistrate in California said Noor Salman could be released.
US District Judge Paul Byron, sitting in Orlando, made an order saying Salman should stay in jail while he decides if she should be detained or released pending her trial on charges that she helped her husband scout out potential targets and created a cover story for him.
A federal magistrate in Oakland, California, had ordered Salman's release as early as Friday, saying it was "debatable" whether the government had enough evidence to convict her.
US Magistrate Judge Donna Ryu also said Salman, 31, was not dangerous and there was no proof she had ties to the Islamic State group or held extremist views.
The criminal charges were filed in Florida, but the detention hearing was held in California because Salman was living in the Bay Area at the time she was taken into custody.
Salman has pleaded not guilty to charges of aiding and abetting, and obstruction of justice. She faces life in prison if she is convicted.
Salman's husband, Omar Mateen, pledged allegiance to IS during the attack at the Pulse gay nightclub on June 12.
The deadliest mass shooting in recent US history left 49 people dead and dozens injured. Mateen was eventually killed by police.
In their motion asking that she be detained, prosecutors said there is a presumption in the law for Salman to be held in jail since the crime involves terrorism, and that prosecutors need not show anything more than an indictment to back up their request.
"Here, the defendant proffered evidence of her husband's alleged abuse, the affidavits of friends and family, and her lack of overall danger in support of an argument that she does not constitute a flight risk or danger to the community," the prosecutors said.
"Such proffered evidence falls far short of justifying a finding in favour of release, particularly in light of the nature of the charged offence."
Salman's lawyer Linda Moreno said the motion seemed to be a rehash of what was argued in the California court.
"The court found that the evidence they claim supports these allegations was debatable," Ms Moreno said. "It's far more than debatable. It's groundless."
AP
North Korean Ri Jong Chol who was arrested in connection with the death of Kim Jong Un's half-brother
Malaysian authorities have deported the only North Korean detained over the killing of Kim Jong Nam, and issued an arrest warrant for another man whose whereabouts are unknown.
Ri Jong Chol, who had been held since February 17, was released because of a lack of evidence to charge him and was handed over to immigration officials for deportation because he did not have valid travel documents, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.
Immigration director-general Mustafar Ali confirmed that Ri had flown out of the country, escorted by two North Korean Embassy officials, and that "he is blacklisted from entering Malaysia".
Police never said what they believed Ri's role was in the attack on the half-brother of North Korea's leader at Kuala Lumpur's airport.
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Malaysia is looking for seven other North Korean suspects, four of whom are believed to have left the country on February 13, the day Kim died.
Two other people remain in custody, both women - one Indonesian, one Vietnamese - accused of smearing Kim's face with VX, a banned nerve agent considered a weapon of mass destruction.
Police have said three other North Korean suspects, including an official at the North Korean Embassy and an employee of Air Koryo, North Korea's national carrier, are believed to still be in the country.
National police chief Khalid Abu Bakar said an arrest warrant was issued on Friday for the Air Koryo employee, Kim Uk Il.
Police say he arrived in Malaysia on January 29, about two weeks before Kim was killed.
Malaysian authorities have not said why they want to arrest Kim Uk Il.
Kim Yong Nam's death has unleashed a diplomatic battle between Malaysia and North Korea.
On Thursday, Malaysia announced it is scrapping visa-free entry for North Koreans.
Malaysia's foreign ministry ramped up the pressure on Friday, saying it was "greatly concerned" about the use of the nerve agent.
"Its use at a public place could have endangered the general public," the ministry said in a statement.
Malaysia has not directly accused North Korea of being behind the killing, but the statement came hours after a North Korean envoy rejected a Malaysian autopsy finding that VX killed Kim, saying the man probably died of a heart attack because he suffered from heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Ri Tong Il, a former North Korean deputy ambassador to the United Nations, also said that if VX had been used, others besides Kim would have been killed or sickened.
The women charged with murdering Kim at an airport terminal were caught on grainy surveillance video smearing what Malaysian authorities say was VX on his face and eyes, though both reportedly say they were duped into thinking they were playing a harmless prank.
Kim died within 20 minutes, authorities say. No bystanders reported falling ill.
Malaysia's finding that VX killed Kim boosted speculation that North Korea orchestrated the attack.
Experts say the oily poison was almost certainly produced in a sophisticated state weapons laboratory, and North Korea is widely believed to possess large quantities of chemical weapons including VX.
North Korea is trying to retrieve Kim's body, but has not acknowledged that the victim is Kim Jong Un's half-brother, as Malaysian government officials have confirmed.
North Korea refers to the victim as Kim Chol, the name on the diplomatic passport he was carrying when he died.
Malaysian police are doing the same; they are seeking next-of-kin who could provide a DNA sample and make a positive identification, steps they say are needed for authorities to give up the body.
Kim is believed to have two sons and a daughter with two women living in Beijing and Macau.
Khalid Abu Bakar, the national police chief, brushed off the North Korean envoy's claim of a heart attack.
"We have our experts who are qualified to determine the cause of death of Kim Chol.
"Our investigations, supported by expert reports, confirmed that Kim Chol was murdered.
"North Korea can say what they like but the facts remain," he told the AP.
Malaysian police said the female suspects had been trained to go immediately to the bathroom and wash their hands after attacking Kim.
The police said the four North Korean suspects who left the country on the day of the killing put the VX liquid on the women's hands.
Police cannot confirm whether the two women may have been given antidotes before the attack.
An antidote, atropine, can be injected after exposure and is carried by medics in war zones where weapons of mass destruction are suspected.
North Korea has a long history of ordering killings of people it views as threats to its regime.
Kim Jong Nam was not known to be seeking political power, but his position as eldest son of the family that has ruled North Korea since it was founded could have made him appear to be a danger.
Kim Jong Nam reportedly fell out of favour with his father, the late Kim Jong Il, in 2001, when he was caught trying to enter Japan on a false passport to visit Tokyo Disneyland.
AP
Syrian regime fighters take position as they advance on the ancient city of Palmyra yesterday
SYRIAN forces and their allies were celebrating the recapture of Palmyra from Isil yesterday, after the militants appeared to have been driven out of the ancient city for a second time.
Syrian soldiers, backed by Russian air raids and ground troops, pushed into the city overnight on Wednesday after days of fierce battles with Isil.
They paused before entering the site of the ancient ruins in the southwest, which they feared had been rigged with mines.
"Isil withdrew from most of Palmyra after laying mines across the city," Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said. "There are no fighters left in most of the Old City, but it is heavily mined."
Dozens of militants were reported to have fled in a convoy towards the nearby town of al-Sukhnah, but were targeted by air strikes.
Photographs showed Russian soldiers standing in front of Palmyra's Roman amphitheatre, which was partly damaged and strewn with debris.
The historic oasis city, listed by Unesco as a World Heritage Site, has traded hands several times in six years of civil war and became a symbol of Isil's destruction of cultural heritage.
The jihadists first took Palmyra in May 2015 before it fell to forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad after a Russian-backed offensive in March 2016. However, Isil managed to recapture the city last December after a surprise assault that severely embarrassed the Damascus regime.
Satellite images last month suggested Isil had carried out further desecration - dynamiting the Tetrapylon monument and blowing up the front of the amphitheatre. The new photographs confirmed the destruction and showed fresh damage to the citadel, which seemed to be crumbling on one side.
"I prepared for the eventuality that the barbarians had blown the whole thing up, so there is some small relief that the citadel and amphitheatre are still standing," Maamoun Abdulkarim, Syria's antiquities chief, said. "The second nightmare is over now, I pray there isn't a third."
Before Isil, the city boasted temples, colonnaded alleys and elaborately decorated tombs that were among the best preserved classical monuments in the Middle East.
Mr Abdulkarim said he would travel to Palmyra to assess the damage and looting early next week.
Meanwhile, in northern Iraq, dozens of civilians were reportedly killed in a suspected US air strike on a historic mosque being used as an Isil base in Mosul.
Residents said a number of militants, as well as civilians sheltering in the Ottoman-era Omar al-Aswad mosque, were killed. Several more died as nearby houses collapsed.
A spokesman for the US-led coalition said he was not aware of such an air strike.
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
A US state which is reportedly the only state giving police immunity from prosecution if they have sex with prostitutes during an investigation is now seeking to draft a bill to get rid of the law.
Bridgette Carr, a director of the Human Trafficking Clinic at the University of Michigan Law School, is now working to get rid of the exemption in Michigan.
Ms Carr told Michigan Radio she became aware of the exemption a couple of years ago when Hawaii was "phasing out their exemption".
"And a number of folks in the human trafficking community were upset that Michigan retained the exemption," she told the station.
The exemption potentially allows police officers to have sex with human trafficking victims without facing punishment.
"The reason the law is structured the way it is is because of the way the prostitution laws are written," she said.
"So for law enforcement to have any power to investigate with immunity, they got all the power. And no one thought to go back and carve out a prohibition against sexual intercourse."
Ms Carr said none of the officers she spoke to said they take advantage of the prosecution.
She added: "What I do know from my own clients is that people who either say they are cops, who are cops or who are impersonating cops, know about this exemption and threaten my clients with it sometimes.
"Its not rampant, but it happens. And I think it says something about us as a community that we would allow this type of exemption for law enforcement, whether its used very often or not."
Jeff Sessions recused himself from any investigation into communications between aides to President Donald Trump and Moscow (AP)
Russia has decried the uproar in the United States over Attorney General Jeff Sessions' meetings with the Russian ambassador as a replay of McCarthyism, voicing regret over the lack of any substantive dialogue with Washington.
Mr Sessions recused himself from any investigation into communications between aides to President Donald Trump and Moscow on Thursday following revelations that as senator, Mr Sessions twice spoke with Ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the 2016 election campaign and failed to say so when pressed by Congress.
Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov argued that contacts with officials and lawmakers are part of any ambassador's duties.
He added that the pressure on Mr Sessions "strongly resembles a witch hunt or the times of McCarthyism, which we thought were long over in the United States as a civilised country".
In the 1950s, Senator Joseph McCarthy led a hunt for purported communist infiltrators in the US government, often involving unfounded accusations.
Mr Trump blamed Democrats for the controversy in a statement on Thursday night.
He said: "They lost the election and now, they have lost their grip on reality. The real story is all of the illegal leaks of classified and other information. It is a total witch hunt!"
At a news conference, Mr Lavrov said Russia is not going to mimic the US, but added that "if we applied the same principle to Ambassador (John) Tefft's activities in Russia and his contacts, it would have made quite a funny picture".
In a sarcastic Facebook post, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said she met Mr Tefft in the ministry's lobby and warned him that he was putting himself in danger by meeting with Russian diplomats.
Asked to comment on the situation, President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov cited the US leader: "We have nothing to add to the expansive definition given by President Trump."
The Sessions case is widely seen in Moscow as part of efforts by Mr Trump's foes to block any possible rapprochement with Moscow.
Russia-US ties plummeted to their lowest level since the Cold War times during Barack Obama's presidency over the Ukrainian crisis, the war in Syria and other issues.
Mr Trump had come into office hoping to mend ties with Russia, expressing admiration for Mr Putin.
Russian lawmakers and political commentators said the allegations by US intelligence that Russia meddled in the election to help Mr Trump defeat Hillary Clinton will likely continue to weigh over his administration and prevent it from launching a meaningful dialogue with the Kremlin any time soon.
In a conference call with reporters, Mr Peskov lamented the lack of co-operation with the US on the Syrian settlement beyond the US diplomatic presence at peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital of Astana that Russia and Turkey brokered earlier this year.
"Similarly, there has been no movement forward regarding co-operation in the fight against terrorism, which causes regret," he said.
"Without waiting for these contacts to start, Russia has been consistently contributing to the fight against terrorism and scoring results," Mr Peskov said, pointing at the Russian military's role in driving the Islamic State group from the historic town of Palmyra.
Mr Trump has repeatedly promised to co-operate with Russia in fighting IS in Syria.
Mr Obama's administration had ruled out such co-operation because of Moscow's support for Syrian president Bashar Assad.
Other issues on the crowded Russian-US agenda leave little hope for any quick progress.
On Ukraine, any Trump move to soften the stance on Russia's annexation of the Crimean Peninsula and its support for a separatist insurgency in eastern Ukraine would anger his Congressional foes and put him in an even more precarious position.
If Mr Trump makes any attempt to ease the sanctions imposed on Russia by Mr Obama's administration, it could face strong resistance in Congress.
On the nuclear arms control, Mr Trump's intentions to modernise the US arsenals and his criticism of the 2010 New START nuclear arms treaty would potentially put him on a collision course with Moscow, which has signalled its desire to extend the deal after it expires in 2021.
But for now, the Kremlin is trying to show patience.
Mr Peskov sought to play down Mr Trump's proposal to raise military spending by 9%, saying that it is a domestic matter for Washington.
"It would hardly concern us until a rise in spending upsets the existing balance of strategic deterrence," he said.
AP
Families walk past an Islamic State sign while fleeing clashes between Iraqi forces and Islamic State group militants in western Mosul (AP)
Thousands of civilians fled Mosul overnight as Iraqi forces advanced north of a sprawling military base near the city's airport on Friday.
Iraq's special forces pushed into the Wadi Hajar district in western Mosul and retook the area from the Islamic State group, according to Brigadier General Yahya Rasool, spokesman of the Joint Military Operations.
Special forces Brigadier General Haider al-Obeidi said clearing operations were ongoing in the area and his forces were close to linking up with the militarised federal police forces who were pushing up along the western bank of the Tigris river.
Iraqi forces, including special operations forces and federal police units, launched an attack on the western part of Mosul nearly two weeks ago to dislodge IS.
Since the offensive began, more than 28,000 people have been displaced by the fighting, according to the United Nations.
Nahla Ahmed, 50 fled Mosul late on Thursday night, walking more than five kilometres (three miles) from her home in the Shuhada neighbourhood.
"All the families were hiding behind a wall," she said, explaining how they escaped an IS-held part of the city.
"We gave the children Valium so they wouldn't cry and (the IS fighters) wouldn't catch us."
Ms Ahmed, like most of the civilians who have escaped Mosul in the past week, fled through Mamun neighbourhood.
The district is partially controlled by Iraq's special forces.
Major Saif Ali, who is stationed in Mamun, said huge crowds of civilians began pouring into the area from neighbouring districts just after midnight.
Mr Ali said civilians in western Mosul are becoming increasingly desperate as food and water supplies begin to run out.
"In total 7,000 people fled through this area last night," he said. "We were up all night trying to control the crowds."
By late morning nearly all the families had been moved out of Mamun.
The neighbourhood was littered with discarded clothing and blankets piled up in empty lots and on street corners.
Iraqi forces deployed east of Mamun advanced into Wadi Hajar, a neighbourhood north of the Ghazlani military base.
The US-led coalition dropped more than 15 munitions in Mosul on Friday, Mr Ali said, saying they targeted car bombs, sniper positions and small IS mortar units.
At a screening centre south of the city, hundreds of women and children were gathered on the cement ground of an old petrol station as men were screened in a parking lot next door.
An Iraqi intelligence officer walked with an informant past the rows of men and boys sitting on the ground before they had their names checked against a database.
Muthana Younis also fled Mosul late on Thursday night.
"We waited until all the IS fighters left the streets," he said, his track suit covered in mud from the journey.
Mr Younis walked for hours, crossing more than five kilometres with his mother, father, brother and sister.
"There were mortars and we could hear gunfire," he said.
Mr Younis said his younger siblings were so scared at times he had to carry them.
He added: "But we had to flee, we had run out of food."
AP
CONCORD- When Ashley Garcia-Riveria met Liz Benstead, she knew the two of them were meant to become a family. As a 15-year-old in foster care, Garcia-Riveria said she was terrified that she would never be adopted.
But when they met each other, Garcia-Riveria knew Benstead was going to be her mother.
It was very, very scary. I was terrified and nervous. I obviously didnt think I would get adopted, Garcia-Riveria said. When I first met my mom Liz; I had a gut feeling. I thought, this is my mom.
They had their first meeting at a Friendlys near Garcia-Riverias foster home in western Massachusetts. They both clicked and began talking during the week.
Benstead adopted Garcia-Riveria on National Adoption Day in 2012.
The 15-year-old was on Cloud 9, but she couldnt forget so many other teenagers that werent as fortunate.
Not many teenagers get adopted from foster care. People usually want young children, Garcia-Riveria said. They end up either homeless, pregnant or in jail. The year after I got adopted, I felt the need that I had to do something about it.
So she established Suitcases of Hope, a nonprofit that provides duffel bags to children and youth in foster care.
Suitcases of Hope
Since 2013, the nonprofit has donated 700 suitcases and duffel bags to foster children. Garcia-Riveria began making the donations with the help of local churches and businesses in Massachusetts. Then she and her mother moved to Cabarrus County a year-and-half ago and began collecting items here.
Garcia-Riveria, now 20, donates the bags because when foster children are moved to foster homes, they are given trash bags to put their belongings in.
My whole point of the Suitcases of Hope is making the kids feel like they arent trash, she said. I go to Walmart and other stores to buy supplies for the suitcases, like teddy bears, toothbrushes and sheets for beds. Whatever the child needs.
Also included in the bag is a copy of The Suitcases by Anne Hall Whitt, which depicts the life of a foster child in 1936 during the Great Depression.
Garcia-Riveria also includes a personal letter of encouragement with advice for the foster child in the future.
She delivers them to the Cabarrus County and the Mecklenburg County department of social services.
They go so quickly. They only last a good three weeks at the office and then they are gone, she said.
Ashleys story of service
When Garcia-Riveria was a junior in high school she had a decision to make. Did she want to apply for colleges or did she want to take a year off.
Working with her guidance counselor, she came up with a plan to help her give back instead. She joined AmeriCorps, the national community service program.
She was accepted into the AmeriCorps City Year program and assigned to serve as a teachers assistant in a fourth-grade classroom in South Carolina. Garcia-Riveria said she spent over 40 hours a week mentoring and tutoring the students.
It was an amazing experience and I miss it, she said.
Garcia-Riveria is also a spokesperson for AdoptUSKids, a project of the US Childrens Bureau that provides tools and technical assistance to help child welfare systems connect children in foster care with families.
She also speaks to local students about Suitcases of Hope. She recently spoke to students at Rocky River Elementary School where Benstead works.
I went there for Service Learning Day to speak to all fifth-graders to tell them what service is really about. Its because you actually want to help people, she said. Im hoping the kids really did listen to me that day and changed what they think about service.
She is currently a student at Central Piedmont Community College and hopes to transfer to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte for its social work program.
Adopting an older child
Garcia-Riveria has some advice to parents who may be considering adopting a foster child. She urges them not to count teenagers out.
Dont be scared to approach a teenager. Its not their fault they were placed in the situation, she said. All they want is love and support. They just want to be in a great family.
Anyone interested in making a donation to Suitcases of Hope can email Garcia-Riveria at anmir015@gmail.com or send checks to 755 Dover Mill Drive, Concord NC 28025.
RALEIGH Modern American conservatism weaves several strands of thought constitutionally limited government, free-market economics, time-honored virtues, and prudent statesmanship into a fabric that is both large enough to encompass a majority coalition and strong enough to withstand that coalitions inevitable twists and strains.
Two thinkers whose ideas inspire American conservatism, Edmund Burke and Friedrich Hayek, were neither Americans nor self-described conservatives. Burke, an 18th-century member of Parliament, defended the American Revolution, criticized the French Revolution, and was associated with the Old Whig faction of classical liberalism in the British politics of the day. Hayek, the 20th-century Austrian economist who spent some of his career in United States, described himself as an Old Whig or classical liberal.
Yet both are venerated by todays conservatives, in part because of their careful, historically grounded arguments for prudence. Circumstances, Burke wrote, give in reality to every political principle its distinguishing color, and discriminating effect. The circumstances are what render every civil and political scheme beneficial or noxious to mankind. In Hayeks case, he counseled his fellow advocates of individual freedom to recognize that human civilization has a life of its own, that all our efforts to improve things must operate within a working whole which we cannot entirely control, and the operation of whose forces we can hope merely to facilitate and assist so far as we can understand them.
At the present moment, North Carolina conservatives are confronted with a prudential question: what to do about House Bill 2. Enacted nearly a year ago in response to Charlottes passage of a poorly constructed anti-discrimination ordinance, H.B. 2 has come to dominate the states political discourse.
Some like it that way. Roy Cooper and his team actively lobbied Democrats during the 2016 campaign not to discuss any accommodations with Republicans on the issue, while also encouraging boycotts against the state and raising campaign funds from concerned business leaders to use against then-Gov. Pat McCrory. On the other side, there are Republicans who believe H.B. 2 was a reasonable response to Charlottes provocation and ought to remain intact, as well as out-of-state conservative groups that see North Carolina as a pivotal battleground in a twilight struggle to defend traditional values.
But most North Carolinians do not agree with either side. Surveys from both liberal and conservative pollsters find majorities of voters oppose H.B. 2. They are tired of hearing about it, unconvinced that it was narrowly tailored to address an imminent problem, and concerned about its effects on politics, business, and sports. In a survey taken just before the November election, the Civitas Institute found that even 43 percent of Republicans and 41 percent of self-described conservatives either opposed H.B. 2 or were ambivalent about it.
That doesnt mean, however, that they or most other North Carolinians favor the approach of the Charlotte ordinance or the Obama administration on access to showers and locker rooms. In that same Civitas poll, 49 percent of voters agreed with the relevant provisions of H.B. 2 on the matter, while 35 percent thought the Charlotte/Obama stance was reasonable.
Rep. Chuck McGrady (R-Henderson) and a bipartisan coalition have devised a new repeal and replace response, H.B. 186, to the ongoing dispute. It repeals H.B. 2 and explicitly grants municipalities the authority to enact anti-discrimination ordinances that go beyond state law to include such categories as sexual orientation or gender identity. However, it explicitly excludes access to multi-occupancy bathrooms, showers, and locker rooms on non-municipal property from such ordinances describing it as a matter of general, statewide concern.
In response to concerns about overly broad anti-discrimination ordinances intruding on the religious conscience of private individuals and institutions, the bill excludes religious groups and nonprofits while allowing citizens to initiate a referendum to challenge any newly enacted ordinance, just as some city charters allow citizens to challenge other city actions.
The McGrady bill wont make everyone happy. It doesnt fully comport with my own preferences. But for conservatives, it has at least one compelling virtue: it is prudent.
John Hood is chairman of the John Locke Foundation and appears on the talk show NC SPIN. You can follow him @JohnHoodNC.
By Pritesh Samuel
In line with the governments digital push, two cashback schemes associated with the Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) app are expected to be released in the coming month. The BHIM app is available on both android and iOS platforms, and has recorded over 17 million downloads.
BHIM app: Quick primer
BHIM integrates the United Payments Interface (UPI) based services offered by all banks on a single platform.
Users can receive and send money and settle bills using a vendors Quick Response (QR) code.
Customers can check their bank balance on the app. All you need is a smartphone, a bank account, and a four-digit passcode at the time of registering.
At the moment, around 37 banks are integrated into the app, including public and private such as State Bank of India, HDFC, ICICI, Kotak Mahindra, and Standard Chartered. All public sector banks are eventually expected to be on the app.
Users can also send money to banks not on the app, using an IFSC code and an account number.
RELATED: Pre-Investment, Market Entry Strategy Advisory from Dezan Shira & Associates
Government incentives on the BHIM app
Cashback: To avail of this scheme, users have to download the BHIM app and create a UPI address. Following that, users will need to link their phone number and address along with their bank account. Once this is done, any transaction done via the app will result in the user getting cashbacks. However, this scheme will only be available for merchants.
Referral bonus scheme: A referral code is given to the user who can use the code to refer others. If another user downloads the app using the referral code, the original user gets the referral bonus.
The above two schemes were announced by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley as part of Indias 2017 budget. The government has also integrated Aadhaar based transactions with BHIM.
The BHIM app provides thee modes of payment: through Aadhaar, a users mobile number/virtual payment address, and bank account. BHIM has been developed by the National Payments Corporation of India.
RELATED: Foxconn Investments in India Show New Regional Dynamic
Takeaways
The incentives underline the governments continued push towards building a cashless economy. The BHIM app has the potential to replace individual apps from banks, wallets, and other fintech startups, and will boost the growth of digital payments in the country. A recent study done by Google and the Boston Consultancy Group (BCG) forecasts that digital payments will contribute towards 15 percent of Indias GDP by 2020.
The BHIM app is among several others, which the government has launched including Aadhaar pay, DigiLocker, BharatQR code, and eTaal. The adoption of digital services will reduce costs of running Indias cash-based economy. Downloads of such apps have already witnessed a temporary boost following the governments November 2016 demonetization move. The government hopes to make this transition more habitual by incentivizing the usage of digital alternatives and penalizing large cash transactions. Such moves will also go a long way in promoting transparency, retracting the parallel black market economy, and ultimately, reducing the countrys excessive and costly dependence on cash.
Needless to say, India must ramp up its internet and digital infrastructure, and ensure a progressive regulatory climate to effectively meet these cashless goals.
About Us Asia Briefing Ltd. is a subsidiary of Dezan Shira & Associates. Dezan Shira is a specialist foreign direct investment practice, providing corporate establishment, business advisory, tax advisory and compliance, accounting, payroll, due diligence and financial review services to multinationals investing in China, Hong Kong, India, Vietnam, Singapore and the rest of ASEAN. For further information, please email india@dezshira.com or visit www.dezshira.com. Stay up to date with the latest business and investment trends in Asia by subscribing to our complimentary update service featuring news, commentary and regulatory insight.
Dezan Shira & Associates Brochure Dezan Shira & Associates is a pan-Asia, multi-disciplinary professional services firm, providing legal, tax and operational advisory to international corporate investors. Operational throughout China, ASEAN and India, our mission is to guide foreign companies through Asias complex regulatory environment and assist them with all aspects of establishing, maintaining and growing their business operations in the region. This brochure provides an overview of the services and expertise Dezan Shira & Associates can provide. An Introduction to Doing Business in India 2017 An Introduction to Doing Business in India 2017 is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in India. As such, this comprehensive guide is ideal not only for businesses looking to enter the Indian market, but also for companies who already have a presence here and want to stay up-to-date with the most recent and relevant policy changes.
New Delhi, Mar 3 (IBNS): India, on Friday, is observing World Wildlife Day with the rest of the world, through various programmes to spread the message of nature conservation and wildlife preservation.
Every year, Mar 3 is observed as World Wildlife Day ever since the decision was taken on Dec 20, 2013, at the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the day the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was signed.
With almost one quarter of the worlds population aged between 10 and 24, vigorous efforts need to be made to encourage young people, as the future leaders and decision makers of the world, to act at both local and global levels to protect endangered wildlife.
Therefore the theme for 2017 is 'Listen to the Young Voices'.
Anil Madhav Dave, Union Minister of State (I/C) for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, tweeted, "MoEF&CC remains committed to conserving wildlife. Budget allocation increased from Rs. 475 Cr last year to Rs. 522.50 Cr. #WorldWildlifeDay."
In another tweet, he said, "Young citizens must take the lead in protecting the denizens of wild. Let us roar into action to the call of the wild #SaveWildlife."
CITES Secretary-General, John E. Scanlon, said, "Given the current rate of poaching and smuggling, will future generations one day speak of elephants, rhinoceros and many other endangered species as we speak of mammoths: magnificent creatures belonging to the past? We must not and will not allow this to happen."
It is the responsibility of each generation to safeguard wildlife for the following generation. We have not yet succeeded in securing the future of the worlds wildlife. Meeting this challenge will now be shared with the next generation. To succeed we must fully harness the innovation and energy of youth, and combine it with the wisdom that comes with experience, if we are to make the change we need to happen," said Scanlon.
Image: Anil M Dave Twitter
New Delhi, Mar 3 (IBNS): In its efforts to enhance disaster preparedness, mitigation and response measures by building capacity at the local level through engagement with the paramilitary and armed forces, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) conducted a training conference here on Friday on capacity building of the various organisations of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and other stakeholders.
Lt. Gen. N. C. Marwah (Retd.), Member, NDMA, who chaired the meeting, said it is very important for NDMA and CAPFs to work together for disaster preparedness and mitigation. Underlining the fact that the capabilities of our forces are not being optimally utilised, he urged them to proactively engage with the local administration and help in strengthening the overall capacity of the first responders.
Speaking on the occasion, he said, "A lot more needs to be done than what is being done today. With better planning, coordination, involvement and commitment, we would be able to make the country disaster resilient."
Sharing their experiences on Training of Trainers (ToT) programmes conducted by their respective organisations, participants highlighted the need for standardization of courses across CAPFs. They also underlined the need to upgrade training equipment and modernise training centres. Besides the need for maintaining a database of such trainers, a detailed deployment plan to fully utilise their capabilities for further trainings was also emphasised upon.
A discussion was held on strengthening the Disaster Management wings of CAPFs by retaining their personnel who have had a stint at National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) as trainers in their DM training institutes.
The need to train volunteers right up to the village level and equipping them to act as first responders in the event of a disaster was also discussed. NDMA's 'Aapda Mitra' is one such volunteer training programme which aims to train at least 200 volunteers at the district level across the country.
Discussions at this conference will form a part of the deliberations at the upcoming National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (NPDRR) which will bring together all stakeholders to review the progress made so far in the field of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and suggest ways to improve disaster resilience in the country. The NPDRR, being jointly organised by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), NDMA and National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), will be held next month.
Senior officials from NDMA, MHA, NDRF, NIDM, Fire Services, Home Guards and Civil Defence, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), National Cadet Corps (NCC), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and Indian Coast Guard attended the conference.
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Paris, Mar 3 (IBNS): French investigators have raided conservative presidential candidate Francoise Fillon's home in Paris over a fake job scandal, the BBC reported.
Though Fillon has dismissed any wrongdoing, the law enforcers are investigating him over an allegedly fake job given to his wife.
The politician, who is facing tremendous pressure to resign however said he will continue his campaign.
Fillon was a front-runner in the race until the scandal emerged, following which his rating has taken a hit.
His wife too is facing an investigation.
Image: Creative Commons
Neduvasal, a village in the district of Pudukkottai is becoming the hotbed of revolt, as villagers, youngsters and environmentalists are protesting against the 'Hydrocarbon Project' proposed by the Union Govt. The project is feared to detriment agriculture and pose environmental damage.
Yesterday, Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami assured the Neduvasal delegation that the Govt. will not encourage any scheme that causes a loss to the farmers. Yet, popular music director and rising actor, G V Prakash Kumar has announced his partake in the protest for Neduvasal. The 'Nachiyaar' hero, who will reach Neduvasal on Sunday, will fight for the farmers for a second time, after having avidly fought for Jallikattu. Much like his previous track 'Kombu Vacha Singamda' for Jallikattu, GVP is set to make another song dedicated to the farmers of Neduvasal.
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This week I attended my first Dr. Umar Johnson lecture. It was interesting, to say the least. For those who are unaware, Johnson, known as the Prince of Pan-Africanism, is a lecturer and self-appointed expert on mental health.
The topics that serve as subject to his verbose extrapolations include examinations of racism against Blacks in America, the influence of the prison industrial complex on our nations education system, the necessity (or lack thereof) of the Black Church, homosexuality and interracial relationships. Johnson has been a consistently outspoken opponent of those last two.
Monday night, after showing up nearly an hour late, Johnson stepped on stage to rousing applause. The room, filled to capacity, was primed and ready to go. These folks, some of whom had traveled from Chicago and elsewhere, were no doubt anticipating something worth listening to. The energy coming from the crowd was worshipful and reverent as he walked through the room, two security guards in tow, clad in a dashiki, crisp white sneakers and a black and gold Phillies ball cap.
While his lecture had a couple gems namely his rebuke of the American education system and its treatment of children of color, as well as a pretty spot-on breakdown of how Black people have been unjustly and systematically shut out of economic advancement through redlining, gentrification and the like a fair amount of it was disappointing. As anyone who has listened to him before knows, some of his most outrageous statements were par for the course. Here are just two examples:
Though Johnson stated that he loves our LGBTQ brothers and sisters, he cannot condone their actions because not only is homosexuality a cancer on the Black community, it also, along with abortion and interracial marriage, is a tool that will ultimately dismantle the Black race. Also, to be accepting and/or tolerant of the LGBTQ movement is to simultaneously be in compliance with criminal acts such as bestiality and pedophilia.
Johnson stated that Black people (or Sun People as he called them) lived in a land of complete and utter harmony similar to Eden before white people (or Ice People) walked their hairy, barbaric, cannibalistic selves down to Africa and ruined everything. While colonialism did deal an awful blow to the continent of Africa, this simplistic view of a fairy tale land is incorrect. War, corruption and slavery in some form or another existed on the continent well before this period in history.
I am of the opinion that we cannot accept hatred in any form toward anyone. It is a detriment to us and serves no productive purpose. Black gay youth are consistently victims of violence in their homes, schools and places of worship. Trans women of color are also being slaughtered, and their murders are often neglected not only by the police and investigators (these crimes often go unsolved), but also by our community.
It is my belief that hate and ignorance are more of a cancerous condition on us than homosexuality could ever be.
The lecture, which was titled 21st Century Afrikan Holocaust: The End of Racial Justice for Blacks & What We Must Do Now! lasted over two hours and was all over the place. In all, I took him to be a glittering balloon speckled with brilliance, but ultimately filled with a lot of hot air.
I had the opportunity to speak with Johnson over the phone before his lecture in Indy. It was our second time conversing; the first was prior to his last visit to Nap two years ago.
Both times we spoke, I was impressed with the passion with which he spoke about the plight of Black children in the public education system. He was dead on in his assertions that Black kids are more likely than others to be suspended from school, unjustly punished for minor offenses and misdiagnosed with mental disorders. Statistics back this up, and studies have shown that at least part of the cause is that too many teachers are working off an assumption that Black children are more dangerous and must be ruled with an iron fist. Many of these educators, even the ones with good intentions, lack the cultural sensitivity required to adequately reach children who are in their care. These steps have dire implications, as many of those same children find themselves behind bars years later.
This topic is especially personal to me, because I lived it. Nearly two decades ago, I went to a predominantly white elementary school on the citys far west side. My home life was troubled. My parents, though they loved me dearly and did their best, had fallen into a rough patch. My daddy, my hero, was addicted to heroin, and he and my mother got a divorce when I was in the first grade. The years after were a struggle for me. I acted out in school and was consistently suspended and sent to the principals office. It was not uncommon for me to spend almost eight hours a day in complete solitude, a special form of torture they called ISS (in-school suspension). In the fourth grade, I was placed, without my parents knowledge or permission, in a special education classroom. I had not been tested or evaluated; it was based strictly on my record of misbehavior. As soon as my mother found out, I was swiftly moved to another class the most advanced fourth grade class. In hindsight, I believe this decision was made by the administrators intentionally to set me up to fail.
I tried my absolute best. I excelled in my classwork and was praised for it. There were days, however, when little Ebony wasnt feeling it. On those days, I was put out of class or sent to the ISS hole.
Eventually I had teachers who didnt see me as a problem that needed to be solved, but a child that needed to be nurtured. Two of these people in particular were my fifth and sixth grade teachers, Mr. Skorjanc and Ms. Chambers.
Mr. Skorjanc was one of the first to let me know there was nothing wrong with me. He expected excellence and refused to accept anything less. Ms. Chambers was a revelation. She was one of the first Black women I met outside my own family who exuded that whole knowledge of self vibe. Her classroom was covered in affirmations and inspiring images of Black people. Above the blackboard, each letter of the alphabet was accompanied by a Swahili word and she, like many of the women Ive grown to love and admire over the years, was unapologetically herself. She was degreed, affluent and down to Earth. She wore what she wanted (lots of Afrocentric garb) and spoke her own language the Kings English seasoned with a New Orleans flair. She took her time with each one of us kids and did not allow misperceptions and prejudice to have a place in the world shed created. She exposed me to Maya Angelou and challenged my assumptions about race, the world and my place in it as a young Black woman. She awakened in me a fierce yearning for more.
This is the same sort of feeling that Johnson says he wants to create in and for Black youth through his annual Black college tours and his yet-to-be-opened schools, the Frederick Douglass Marcus Garvey Leadership Academy (for boys) and the Anna M. Douglass Amy J. Garvey Leadership Academy (for girls).
While on one hand, I applaud some of his efforts, I cannot ignore that his message was full of many of the inaccuracies and hateful statements that pervade much of the Pan-African movement. I also have concerns of his legitimacy. His credentials as a school psychologist, doctor of psychology and school principal have yet to be confirmed. The receipts, as far as I can tell, are non-existent. His fundraisers to open the aforementioned academies have been scrutinized, as many donors claim to have been defrauded. There are entire websites and social media pages dedicated to proving this man is a well-spoken liar, and even one local business owner shared with me his own sheisty Dr. Umar story.
I hate to believe that Johnson is nothing more than a charlatan dressed in colorful clothing. Despite the misgivings of the messenger, I want to believe that the message still has a purpose.
So, do we throw out the possibly well-intentioned baby with the vile bathwater? That answer, I believe, is a bit more nuanced than black and white.
Hero of Mollywood's first musical hit 'Thiramala' shares his Hollywood stint, directing Prem Nazir and more
For all those self-proclaimed alpha males out there who love bragging about their performance under the sheetheres a device that can now quantify just how well you fare.
thesun.co.uk
British condom maker i.Con Smart Condom has developed a wearable that you can wear over your wearable (your condom). i.Con is a ring that will sit over your condoms base while you thrust on it.
Heres a little preview of what the company claims i.Con has to offer.
The features
Its lightweight, water-resistant, and even bleach resistant (because otherwise, you may have to spend time cleaning it incessantly).
keywordsuggest.org
It's embedded with a nano-chip and sensors that can connect to an app on your smartphone.
Comes with a one-year warranty, will have a micro-USB charging port to provide six-to-eight hours of use, and has a one-size-fits-all band adjustment feature.
urbangeekz
Antibody filters on the ring that sends alerts to your phone app if it detects proteins or antigens found in STIs. Theres always a chance of it giving erroneous information, which can then become one its significant drawbacks.
What i.Con promises to track
The total calories burnt during sexual intercourse, which will test the current average of about 100 calories per session put out by a study conducted by the University of Montreal.
The total number of thrusts. So, we will now hopefully be able to get an aggregate of the number of thrusts we can aim to achieve every daysimilar to the daily count of steps you should take.
atrl.net
The frequency of your sessions. If you use a wearable to count the number of times youre having sex, youre probably getting enough anyway.
The total time your session lasted. Just in case you wanted to check your endurance under the sheets.
Measure the girth of your smaller member.
The average speed of your thrust; to measure if youre a cheetah under the hood. Although, faster is not necessarily better.
lowyat.net
The different kind of positions you get into in bed, which is subject to the results of the BETA testing.
The average temperature of your skin. Were not sure how this can help, but a fun fact nonetheless.
The only thing it probably doesnt record the steps you takeunless of course, you dont (somehow) use your feet to walk.
You may now be able to have sexual endurance stand-off with your buddies!
Although the website states that all the data will be kept anonymous, the users will have the option to share their data with friends or even people across the world. This, of course, depends on the number of people willing to adopt the device worldwide, to begin with.
beckymoore.wordpress.com
The also brings into context the question of whether we need another reason to see if we measure up to your buddies or strangersespecially if someone were to put this on a dogs nose just to get ahead of his friends in the race under the sheets.
The credibility of the device remains questionable, however
Since the source of the testing hasnt been mentioned on the website, the reliability of the device is still in question. It does not negate the need to test for STI's medically; if and when you need to.
vanityfair
Besides, its hard to say just how they intend to fit all this technology into a tiny ring of this nature without even a picture of the device in sight, but whats more important is if people will be able to trust the anonymity and validity of such data. The device is due to come out this later this year as the company claims it is in the final stages of testing.
Indian government representatives will meet the Dalai Lama when he visits a sensitive border region controlled by India but claimed by China, officials said, despite a warning from Beijing that it would damage ties.
BCCL
India says the Tibetan spiritual leader will make a religious trip to Arunachal Pradesh next month, and as a secular democracy it would not stop him from travelling to any part of the country.
Also Read: Ahead Of Dalai Lama's Visit, Karmapa Visits Arunachal Pradesh And China Is Not Going To Like It
China claims the state in the eastern Himalayas as "South Tibet", and has denounced foreign and even Indian leaders' visits to the region as attempts to bolster New Delhi's territorial claims.
A trip by the Dalai Lama, whom the Chinese regard as a dangerous separatist, would ratchet up tensions at a time when New Delhi is at odds with China on strategic and security issues and unnerved by Beijing's growing ties with arch-rival Pakistan.
BCCL
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration is raising its public engagement with the Tibetan leader, a change from earlier governments' reluctance to anger Beijing by sharing a public platform with him.
Also Read: China Seizes Passports Of Thousands Of Tibetans, Bars Them From Travelling To Dalai Lama Event In Bodhgaya
"It's a behavioural change you are seeing. India is more assertive," junior home minister Kiren Rijiju told Reuters in an interview.
Rijiju, who is from Arunachal and is Modi's point man on Tibetan issues, said he would meet the Dalai Lama, who is visiting the Buddhist Tawang monastery after an eight-year interval.
"He is going there as a religious leader, there is no reason to stop him. His devotees are demanding he should come, what harm can he do? He is a lama."
BCCL
The Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Friday the Dalai Lama's trip would cause serious damage to India-China ties, and warned New Delhi not to provide him a platform for anti-China activities.
Also Read: Dalai Lama Surprises Everyone, Says He Hopes Putin And Trump May Unite For Peace
"The Dalai clique has for a long time carried out anti-China separatist activities and on the issue of the China-India border has a history of disgraceful performances," spokesman Geng Shuang told a daily news briefing.
Visits of the Dalai Lama are initiated months, if not years in advance, and approval for the April 4-13 trip predates recent disagreements between the neighbours.
But the decision to go ahead at a time of strained relations signals Modi's readiness to use diplomatic tools at a time when China's economic and political clout across South Asia is growing.
Just 12 hours after producer-director Mahesh Bhatt lodged a complaint about receiving repeated calls for ransom, the city crime branch's anti-extortion cell arrested a jobless 24-year-old man from Lucknow for the crime on Thursday.
instagram
The accused, Sandeep Sahu, posed as underworld gangster Babloo Srivastava and threatened to kill Bhatt's wife Soni Razdan and daughter Alia Bhatt if the filmmaker failed to pay up Rs 50 lakh.
In one of the messages, Sahu had asked Bhatt to deposit the sum in a bank account with a Lucknow address through wire transfer. It gave cops their lead who then took help from UP's special task force to track him down. They will bring Sahu to Mumbai on Friday on a transit remand.
ANI
Sahu had planned the offence to repay Rs 6 lakh he had borrowed from his relatives to set up a shoe shop. He had to close shop after incurring losses. He came to Mumbai in 2016 with the hope of becoming an actor, but that dream did not materialise.
"Sahu said he planned the offence when his relatives began to harass him for money upon his return to Lucknow three months ago. After getting hold of Bhatt's contact, he impersonated Srivastava, who was once Dawood's aide and is in jail," said an officer.
instagram
Bhatt received the first threat call on February 26. He initially thought it was a prank, but the caller made a few more calls and then texted and sent WhatsApp messages telling him not to take his threats lightly.
After being trolled by writer Shobhaa De on twitter, MP police inspector Daulatram Jogawat, went under the knife to shed weight.
ANI
"I am hurt with Shobhaa De's tweet poking fun at me. I have put on weight due to insulin imbalance, followed by my gall bladder operation in 1993," Inspector Jogewat, who weighs around 180 kg, had told PTI.
On Thursday morning, Jogawat, underwent a bariatric surgery at Mumbai's Saifee Hospital. Reports state that the surgery lasted for one and half hours.
ANI
Jogawat, went through a Gastric Bypass surgery which curbs food intake and absorption of nutrients. The medical procedure could help him shed close to 80 kgs in the next one year.
"I am thankful to my senior officers and media for this. A wrong tweet has changed my life," he told PTI.
Heavy police bandobast in Mumbai today! pic.twitter.com/sY0H3xzXl3 Shobhaa De (@DeShobhaa) 21 February 2017
De had posted the image on February 21 after the polling for the Mumbai civic body.
Her tweet read, "Heavy police bandobast in Mumbai today," and wrongly identified Jogewat as a personnel of the Mumbai Police who was deployed for the BMC polls. As the inappropriate tweet went viral, De was slammed by netizens.
And more recently, she tweeted saying that her statement 'helped a good cause' and that 'police need to take fitness far more seriously.'
Glad my tweet has helped a good cause. The police need to take fitness far more seriously. Shobhaa De (@DeShobhaa) 27 February 2017
For which she got trolled again:
Heights of shamelessness @DeShobhaa! You body shamed a man with illness & gloat over it!
& I knw this tweet wont make U cure shamelessness Thought Gun (@ShootinThoughts) 27 February 2017
Soon after this incident sparked outrage, Dr Lakdawala, who is also helping a 36-year-old Egyptian woman, Eman Ahmed, to lose weight, came forward to help Daulatram Jogawat.
Expenses of Jogawats treatment have been taken up by the Madhya Pradesh polices welfare fund.
With PTI Inputs
An Army jawan who was seen in a sting operation by a news website criticising the 'sahayak' (orderly) system last month was found dead in mysterious conditions in an abandoned barrack in Deolali Cantonment in Maharashtra on Thursday.
Roy Mathew, a gunner, was found hanging from the ceiling of a room. Doctors said 33-year-old Mathew, whose body was decomposed, might have died three days ago.
AP/representational image
Police sources said Mathew, who had served the Army for around 13 years, was among several jawans in Deolali seen in the video which featured soldiers walking dogs of officers and taking their children to school. The sting operation had sparked an uproar against the British-era sahayak system.
Mathew, who had been missing from his artillery unit since February 25, was facing an inquiry after the sting operation was posted online, sources said.
AP/representational image
It is being probed if Mathew, who was attached for 'buddy duties' with a Colonel rank officer posted as an additional officer at the Artillery Centre in Deolali, had felt tortured or harassed after appearing in the video," said a police source, adding that after the video was widely circulated on various social media platforms, Mathew was questioned by several officials.
AP/representational image
The source said Mathew had run away from the unit on February 25 and had remained missing since. "He had come under huge pressure," the source added. On being contacted, the Army, however, said Mathew had gone "AWOL (absent without official leave)" within 24 hours of the video being aired on February 24.
Two families in Southern Kerala's Kollam district were struggling to get their swapped babies back. they have finally got a relief after six months of struggle.
screengrab
Ramsy-Aneesh and Naushad-Jazeera underwent a DNA test at the Child Welfare Committee before getting their babies back. Both Ramsy and Jazeera gave birth to their babies at Medicity Hospital in Kollam on October 22.
The families alleged that their babies got swapped while they returned from medical examination.
Screengrab
According to Ramsy's family, they had given the hospital staff a green towel, but when they got the baby back, it was wrapped in a yellow cloth.
The family alleged that they had immediately raised suspicion of a possible swap, but the hospital refused to listen to their complaint.
It was only after three months when Naushad and Jazeera took their baby for vaccination it was found that the toddler's blood group was O+ and not A+ as mentioned in the hospital records.
screengrab
Even after this, the family Alleged the hospital refused to accept their mistake, forcing them to approach police and Child Welfare Committee.
The two couples underwent DNA test and their doubts turned out to be true - the babies had in fact been swapped.
Noushad claimed that the hospital management had offered him money to give a statement that the babies were swapped outside.
All thanks to the modern world that everyone these days claims to be a photographer. And while it's easy to roam around with a luxury camera hanging around your neck, it's extremely difficult to chase it like an art.
Some 70 finalists have been shortlisted for the coveted 14th Annual Smithsonian Photo Contest and the list has been announced, and 4 of them are Indians.
(Also read: 16 Of The World's Best Photographs Prove That Drone Photography Is The Next Big Thing!)
The breathtaking final list of photographs was chosen from over 48,000 submissions from photographers across 146 countries and territories. To help your favourite contestant win, you can vote here.
The voting is now open for the Reader's Choice winner and it closes on March 27. All the winners will be announced alongside the Grand Prize and category winners the following day.
1. Karthik AK
Father Calling, Natural World Finalist
smithsonianmag
This is how the artist described it- This night frog, endemic to the Western Ghats of India, exhibits a unique breeding behaviour. The males call for females, the females come and lay the eggs, then the males fertilise them. In this image, the male has successfully fertilised a clutch of eggs from a female. He is calling out for other females to lay eggs.
2. Vickson Dasan
Into The Woods, Mobile Finalist
smithsonianmag
This is how the artist described it- A tree house in the woods. I was travelling to Bangalore for a week to visit some of my friends. There we went to Nandi Hills for a sunrise view.
3. Mustafa AbdulHadiv
Munnar, Travel Finalist
smithsonianmag
This is how the artist described it- Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala, India. It is a haven during the monsoon season as nature surprises you with amazing clouds and mists
4. Swaroop Singha Roy
The Hidden Murder, Natural World Finalist
smithsonianmag
This is how the artist described it- A spider with a housefly kills, hiding under the petals of a Madagascar periwinkle flower.
The list comprises of 66 more finalists and you can check them out here.
(Also read: Indian Bags 1st Prize In Animal Portraits Category Of National Geographic's Photography Contest)
The sensational child trafficking case in West Bengal appears to have larger political implications than expected. In interesting turn of events, name of BJPs top leaders surfaced, claims the Criminal Investigation Department of West Bengal police.
AFP
The investigators did not even rule out the possibilities of bringing the national leaders of BJP in the purview of investigation. Among the top rung leaders of the ruling party at centre, two names BJPs national general secretary Kailash Vijaywargiya and Rajya Sabha MP, Rupa Ganguly are already under scanner, added the investigators.
BCCL
The case started in January following a complaint forwarded to the CID by a central agency. The investigating team was apparently chasing Chandana Chakrabarty, owner of the NGO and the unauthorised adoption centres, though the investigation later led them to Juhi Chowdhury, a 30-year-old member of BJP.
She was then general secretary of Bengal BJPs Mahila Morcha. The investigators accessed the CCTV footage of Juhi taking Chandana to the office of the union minister of the concerned department.
According to sources, Chandana who has been running three such adoption centres received a suspension notice for one centre Ashray (shelter). Of threes homes, Ashray was the only one to have the license under the state governments adoption agency.
BCCL
Following the cancellation of states license, Chandana requested Juhi to fix an appointment with the union minister to manage a central license bypassing the regular process. The CID sources further added that Juhi was promised a resort in north Bengal in exchange of the political favour to Chandana and she was well-informed about her business.
Emboldened by a witnesss confession before a magistrate, the CID is now likely to include both the senior leaders of BJP in the investigation.
One of our witnesses in her confession under section 164 of CRPC took the name of two top BJP leaders.
But, an immediate action might be taken against Rabindranath Choudhury, Juhis father and a BJ veteran. Rabindranath Chowdhury is absconding, said sources. Evidence against him were collected. Charges of harbouring criminal can also be slapped against him, added sources.
AP
We are looking into all aspects. We are also examining the role of influential people and collecting adequate evidence. We will take required actions in due course, Rajesh Kumar, additional DGP, CID said
The CID is presently dealing with 17 cases of baby-selling through Chandanas home. Of 17 such cases, in at least four cases babies were sold to foreign nationals of Spain, Singapore, France and USA. The problem for Chandana cropped up when the foreign nationals could not take the babies in possession in absence of the fit for adoption certificate.
During the course of the investigation, CID seized the documents, computers and accessed the bank accounts. Each baby has been sold at a price between Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2 lakh, said a senior CID official. The babies were brought to the home by duping their biological parent.
AFP
Three local nursing homes are under scanner for fixing deals with Chandanas home. Sleuths arrested her brother Manas Bhowmick, a government employee known for his cultural activities in North Bengal. The investigators are also examining the money laundering angle, said a senior CID official.
This is a multifaceted case and has serious implications. We are looking into all aspects, said Akash Magharia, Special SP (Operations), CID.
At least three RSS activists and two CPIM members have been injured in separate clashes in Kerala. The RSS activists sustained injuries after a bomb was hurled at an office of the outfit in Vishnumangalam, Kozhikode.
Two workers of the Democratic Youth Front of India (DYFI), the youth wing of CPIM were attacked at Elappully in Palakkad district by five unidentified men on motorbikes. Read more
1. Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar Asks Forces To Be Ready For Chemical And Biological Warfare
With Biological and Chemical warfare a possibility in the future, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has warned the forces to be ready for any eventuality. He said that India should be prepared to face any threat arising out of nuclear or chemical weapons.
He said India should have an effective system in place to prevent potential consequences against use of chemical or biological weapons on Thursday. Read more
2. BSF Soldier Tej Bahadur Yadav Posts New Video, Asks PM Modi If He's Being Punished For Exposing Corruption
BSF jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav, who kicked up a controversy for his video on bad food being served to soldiers at a border post, is back in the news with another recording in which he alleges that the accounts of Pakistani "friends" on his Facebook page are a conspiracy against him.
Yadav's new video has appeared on social media where he is also heard posing questions to PM Narendra Modi whether he is being punished for exposing corruption. Read more
3. To Keep Touts Away, Govt Will Soon Make Aadhaar Mandatory To Book Railway Tickets Online
The railways will soon move towards Aadhaar-based online ticketing system to prevent touts from blocking bulk tickets, end fraudulent bookings and curb cases of impersonation.
Aadhaar number has been made mandatory for senior citizens to avail concessions in train tickets from April 1. A three-month trial run for this is going on. Read more
4. With Hafiz Saeed Under House Arrest, His Son Hafiz Talha Saeed Steps In, Asks People To Become Like Dawood Ibrahim
A video shot on "Kashmir Day" in Pakistan on February 5 has had Indian intelligence agencies on their toes. In the video, accessed by TOI, Jamat-Ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed's son, Talha, is seen inciting a crowd to wage war against India using Dawood Ibrahim's name.
This is the first time that a Pakistan-based terror outfit has made a direct reference to the don. Read more
5. PM Modi Compared Kerala To Somalia, But Government Data Shows The State's Infant Mortality Rate Is As Good As US
Kerala's infant mortality rate (IMR) the number of children under the age of 1 who die for every 1,000 born has been brought down to 6, a level equal to that of the US and the average for developed nations, according to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) of 2015-16.
To put it in perspective, if India, with a current IMR of 41 could get it down to 6, around seven lakh children would be saved each year. Read more
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The head of the EuroWorking Group Thomas Wieser pointed directly to last Decembers abrupt announcement of a 617-million-euro "holiday bonus" by the leftist Greek government for 1.6 million pensioners as recently straining relations with institutional creditors.
US ambassador to Greece Geoffrey Pyatt on Friday expressed concern over a possible "accident" in the Aegean , a statement referring directly to resurgent tension between Ankara and Athens focused in the eastern Aegean , and punctuated over the past week by jingoistic comments uttered by a handful of Turkish politicians before cheering supporters.
Well-known Greek-Russian businessman and investor Ivan Savvidis partially "resurrected" the now defunct television license tender issue , months after the controversial procedure was declared illegal by Greece's high court last year, by sending main opposition New Democracy (ND) Kyriakos Mitsotakis an out-of-court notice on Thursday
The Spring Coal Forum has been one of the highlights of the coal industry calendar and will attract senior industry executives from companies that produce, supply, transport, ship, trade and consume coal. The program features presentations from coal suppliers, utilities, railroads and energy traders, along with industry-wide perspectives from leading consultants and government representatives.
The coming of Tinubu has brought various revolutionary changes to Nigerian politics, first of which is the emergence of a once-upon a time opposition party, the APC, as the ruling party at the centre. Either you love Tinubu, or you despise his brand of politics, there are some things that should be said about this astute and shrewd politician.
1. Education
Bola Tinubu attended St Johns Primary School in Lagos and Childrens Home School in Ibadan. He thereafter left for Richard Daley College, Chicago, Illinois, and later Chicago state University, both in the USA. He obtained a degree in Business Administration in 1979.
2. Achievements in education
The former Lagos state governor was always on the Deans list and was a Custodian of the Outstanding Students Award, also the University Scholars Award and a Certificate of Merit in Accounting and Finance, after he scored 3.54 out of a possible 4.0 Grade Point Average.
3. Career experience
The APC national leader worked with Arthur Anderson, Deloitte and Sells and GTE Services Corporation. He worked with Mobil Oil, Nigeria in 1983.
4. Political journey
He joined active politics in the early 1990s. He joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where he clinched the partys primary ticket to contest the Lagos West Senatorial District election, which he won against the candidate of the National Republican Convention (NRC).
5. Experience with the IBB government
Tinubu was assaulted and arrested for his anti-government stance many times. He constantly criticised the government.
6. Experience with Sani Abachas government
The former senator was forced to leave the shores of the country due to frequent assassination attempts on his life. He went on exile and thereafter joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), with other critics of the Abacha regime. It was there other pro-NADECO members and Tinubu came up with Radio Kudirat, which later became a thorn in the flesh of the Abacha government.
7. Life as a governor
He became the third democratically elected governor of Lagos state under the Alliance for Democracy (AD), after the return of democracy in 1999. He served two terms. He helped to increase the internally generated revenue (IGR) of the state to billions of naira.
8. Students of Tinubus school of politics
The number of politicians who served under the tutelage of the number one Yoruba political stalwart are numerous. They include: Prof Yemi Osinbajo, the vice president of Nigeria; Babatunde Raji Fashola, Minster of Power, Works and Housing and one time governor of Lagos state, Rauf Aregbesola, Osun state governor, among others.
9. Surpassing Chief Obafemi Awolowos political record
Although, Chief Awolowo gave life to the Yoruba race, through his free education programme, while he was the Premier of the Western Region in the late 1950s. However, Tinubu is the first Yoruba politician, whose party while in the opposition defeated a ruling party in a presidential election, thereby controlling the central government.
10. Surviving the PDPs onslaught
When the other AD governors of Ondo, Osun, Ekiti, Ogun and Oyo all lost their second term re-election in 2003 to the PDP, it was only Tinubu, who used his political wits to win his second term. He survived as the only AD governor in the whole of the 36 states of the federation, thereby becoming a lone ranger. However, he never got discouraged or overwhelmed, as he galvanised forces and resources together, with other politicians of like minds to change the face of opposition party politics. In a matter of a few years, he and others formed the APC, which now has 22 state governors under its belt
The Nigerian Army has built 16 Brigade in Yenagoa with the bid to reduce the rate of crime and criminality in the Niger Delta region, the Nigerian Army says it is planting more military brigades across the country.
Speaking during the commissioning of a temporary accommodation for the newly created 16 Brigade in Yenagoa, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, said the army is ready to deal with the state of insecurity within the Niger Delta region.
General Buratai highlighted the reasons behind the setting up of the new brigade while appreciating Governor Seriake Dickson for support given to the Army in Bayelsa State.
In his response, Governor Dickson lauded the temporary office of the 16 Brigade and described it as the best in the federation.
He, however, appealed for more support from the Army authorities to the newly established brigade.
In his address, the Commander of the Brigade, Brigadier General Kelvin Aligbe, outlined the achievements they have made in the absence of a temporary site.
Pleased by the accolades received, the commander and officers of the 16 Brigade stated their commitment to protecting the citizens, waterways and national assets in the state.
( Channels Television)
Kaduna state Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, speaking at the on-going Social Media Week 2017 on Thursday, said the music mogul will face the full brunt of the law for publishing fake stories and pictures.
We are going to prosecute him. He was arrested. His statement has been taken. He is on bail. He is going to be prosecuted. His fate will be decided by a judge, El-Rufai said.
While insisting that he had no personal grouse against Audu, the governor noted that prosecuting him would serve as a deterrent to people who spread untrue information on social media and would help rein in the scourge of fake news.
He said, It is not personal. I have nothing against him. In fact, he has worked with the state government in the past. But Im not going to sit as the governor of Kaduna state and allow anyone to post or tweet anything that leads to loss of lives without consequences.
Audu, El-Rufai said, was informed about the untrue nature of his posts but still doubled down on them.
He posted fake pictures of Boko Haram attacks, Rwandan genocide, as Southern Kaduna killings. It is totally irresponsible to do that.
Even when it was pointed out to him that the information was untrue, he still posted that he stood by his story. He questioned the authenticity of the press statement. He was totally and completely irresponsible.
The music mogul and lawyer was arrested on February 17, by policemen attached to the inspector-generals monitoring and intelligence team, over inciting comments he made on social media on Southern Kaduna killings.
In a series of tweets on January 23, he alleged that five students of Kaduna State College of Education, Gidan Waya, Kafanchan, were murdered by Fulani herdsmen.
My drivers younger brother and five others students of College of Education, Gidan Waya, were ambushed and killed by herdsmen yesterday #SouthernKaduna, he said in one of the tweets.
A Federal High Court in Abuja has declared that every Nigerian child has the constitutional right to free and compulsory primary education, and free junior secondary education.
In a suit filed by a non-governmental organisation, Legal Defence and Assistance Project (LEDAP), against the Federal Ministry of Education and the Attorney General of the Federation, Justice John Tsoho also declared that the Federal and State governments have constitutional duties to provide adequate funds for it.
In the suit, LEDAP asked the court to determine whether by the combined effect of Section 18 (3)(a) of the 1999 Constitution and Section 2 (1) of the Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act, (UBE) 2004, the right to free and compulsory primary education and free junior secondary education for all qualified Nigerian citizens are enforceable rights in Nigeria.
Justice Tsoho, who relied on a 2002 decision of the Supreme Court, held that by enacting the UBE Act, the National Assembly has made the right to free and compulsory primary and free junior secondary education contained in Chapter 2 an enforceable or justiciable right.
Reacting to the judgment, the lead counsel to LEDAP, Mr Chino Obiagwu, said that the court on Wednesday gave life and hope to over 28 million Nigerian children who are currently out of primary and junior secondary school, or who are at risk of being withdrawn from school because of the inability of their parents or guardians to pay the tuition fees and school expenses, or who are withdrawn from school so that they can be given out in early marriage or be sent to the streets to hawk or beg for alms.
By this judgment, any child not enrolled in school or who is withdrawn from school can exercise his or her constitutional rights against the parent, guardian or government.
And failure by any government to fund free primary and junior secondary education will constitute a breach of the constitution.
It was a day of protest in Edo State as hundreds of pensioners on Thursday in Benin marched on Edo Government House to protest non-payment of arrears of pensioners ranging from five to 42 months.
The pensioners carried placards with inscriptions such as EFCC come and rescue Edo pensioners; Gov. Obaseki pay pensioners their pension arrears; Mr Governor use the N11.38 billion bailout funds to pay pensioners; and Oga Governor please pay all our entitlement o Edo state and Local Government Pensioners.
The pensioners spokesman, Mr Gabriel Osemwenkhai, told newsmen that some of the pensioners now sleep in churches.
Osemwenkhai said that the pensioners need their entitlement to pay their childrens school fees.
He alleged that some of the local government pensioners had not been enrolled into the state pension scheme, while others had died as a result of hardship.
He urged Governor Godwin Obaseki to emulate other sta tes who had used bailout funds to pay their senior citizens.
Deputy Governor of the state, Mr Philip Shaibu, who addressed the protesting pensioners, lauded the peaceful manner of the protest.
He said that some of the issues raised by the pensioners have been received and measures already being put in place to address them.
(NAN)
A Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday, fixed March 7 to hear arguments in a suit filed by Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN) seeking an order to unfreeze his account. Justice Abdulazeez Anka, had on Feb. 7, ordered temporary forfeiture of N75 million found in Ozekhomes Guarantee Trust Bank account.
The order followed an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which prayed the court to freeze Ozekhomes account temporarily on the ground that the funds was suspected to be proceeds of crime. When the case was called, counsel to the EFCC, Mr Rotimi Oyedepo, informed the court of a counter affidavit filed in response to the suit.
He added that affidavit had been served on the plaintiff. In his response, plaintiff told the court that he had yet to look at the document and asked for time to respond to same. Consequently, Justice Abdulazeez Anka fixed March 7 for hearing of the application.
seeking an order, discharging forthwith, the interim order made ex-parte, which ordered temporary attachment of the money for 120 days. He sought an order restraining the EFCC, whether by themselves or their privies, from dealing in anyway and manner as to the operation or the proprietary rights of the ownership of the account. In his application, Ozekhome isseeking an order, discharging forthwith, the interim order made ex-parte, which ordered temporary attachment of the money for 120 days. He sought an order restraining the EFCC, whether by themselves or their privies, from dealing in anyway and manner as to the operation or the proprietary rights of the ownership of the account.
Ozekhome said that the application for an order of interim forfeiture of his account was done in bad faith by EFCC. He added that the EFCC did not comply with statutory authorities in obtaining an interim order vide a motion exparte. According to him, the respondent allegedly suppressed material facts in obtaining the order, adding that the action was unconstitutional as it offends sections 36, 37 and 41 of the 1999 Constitution.
In his application, Ozekhome argued that the money was paid to his law firm by Gov. Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti as legal fees. He added that Fayoses account had been unfrozen by a courts order before the funds were drawn. In the counter affidavit deposed to by an EFCC prosecutor, Mr Idris Mohammed, the commission asked the court not to allow the plaintiff access to his account in GTB which has a balance of N75 million.
The commission claimed that the money, paid to Ozekhome as legal fee by Fayose, was part of the N2.26 billion arms procurement fund, allegedly looted by former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd.). The EFCC also claimed that it had traced about N1.22 billion out of the N2.26 billion to Fayose. It said the money was routed to Fayose through a former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has recovered jewelleries worth millions of Naira from the house of one Akka Babba Danagundi, brother- in -law to a former National Security Adviser to Late President, Umar Musa Yaraduwa, Major General Abdullahi Sarki Mukhtar.
According to an EFCC source, the jewelleries were found in a fireproof safe hidden in a house belonging to one Akka Babba Danagundi at No. 375, Gwangwazo quarters of Kano Municipal, Kano State.
About 50 documents in respect of landed properties bearing the name of the former NSA and his wife, Binta Sarki Mukhtar were also discovered.
The discovery was sequel to an intelligence report alleging that huge sums of money including foreign currencies were hidden in the premises, Uwujaren noted.
The source further noted that during the operation, Aiko Fireproof safe and seven suspects including the house owner, Danagundi were arrested and brought to EFCC s Kano Zonal Office where their statements was taken.
On arriving at the commissions Kano Zonal Office, the safe was opened and jewelleries such as necklaces and wristwatches including 50 Certificates of Occupancy for properties located in Kano, Kaduna and Abuja were found.
The jewelleries found includes 55 wristwatches, including three gold watches. Also, 37 gold jewellery weighing 1,907.9g and another 15 pieces of fashion jewelleries were found, the source noted.
All the suspects arrested during the operation were released on administrative bail with the exception of Danagundi who is still in custody, assisting the investigation.
Source: Leadership
The Governor of Adamawa State, Muhammadu Bindow said at the technical training centre in Mayo-Belwa Local Government Area on Thursday as he warned against vandalising or tampering with equipment at the technical training centres spread across the state.
Government Area. He said that anybody or group caught vandalising or tampering with the equipment would face the full wrath of the law. The Governor gave the warning shortly after inspecting the technical training centre in Mayo-Belwa LocalGovernment Area. He said that anybody or group caught vandalising or tampering with the equipment would face the full wrath of the law.
He said that inspection of the centre was aimed at ensuring that the facilities were being put to use. He noted that former Gov. Murtala Nyako had invested a huge amount of money in the centres, adding that he would not allow the investments to waste.
The story has been told of a pastor who allegedly let his pregnant wife die after he refused to let her undergo necessary medical procedure.
Popular Nigerian OAP, Daddy Freeze has shared a story of how a woman died after her pastor husband refused to let doctors operate on her.
According to Freeze, the story was sent to him this morning and has left him disheartened.
The pastor allegedly caused the death of his wife by refusing doctors to evacuate the dead baby his wife was carrying in her womb.
Read the full narration below:
Continue the story below:
They went there and he refused to release the womans body for Burial that she is coming back. They Prayed the what are you waiting for Prayer and she didnt come back. Now she is in Mortuary. The man killed his Wife. Simple.
The woman is not buried till now, the man insisted she will wake up.
And the father in law have rejected her corpse that so far he took law into his hands by disregarding doctors advise. He should eat the corpse.
Reacting to the story, Daddy Freeze wrote this:
I got this disheartening message this morning.
I must say that Nigeria is at a point, where Religious stupidity is at an all time high! This foolishness is fueled by the doltish teachings ofcallous Yahoo boy pastors, along with our constant quest to remain ignorant and brainwashed.
I hold responsible that cretin of a husband, who should be in the confines of a prison cell, if there were any justice in the world. ~FRZ
There was jubilation in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital on Thursday as Workers in the state were handed over keys of 72 housing unit constructed by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMGN).
The Acting Managing Director of the Bank, Mr Richard Esin said the project known as the FMBN/Ebonyi State Housing Development Corporations housing estate, has a total of 240 housing units with 72 units completed.
Mr. Esin who disclosed this during the inauguration of houses at Ezzambgo, Ohaukwu LGA of Ebonyi by the Minister of State for Power, Works and Housing, Alhaji Mustapha Shehuri the housing units consist of 5 units of 3-bedroom fully detached bungalows, 30 units of 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalows and 12 units of 2-bedroom terrace.
It also consists of 20 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalows and 5 units of 1-bedroom terrace, he said.
Esin noted that the FMBN in its desire to positively impact on the housing sector of Ebonyi, invested a total of N431million towards the project.
The development of this housing estate is an affirmation of the tangible achievement of the federal government in providing affordable housing for all Nigerians and the crucial role we play in achieving it, he said.
He remarked the minister of power, works and housing has graciously approved that National Housing Fund (NHF) loans of N5million and below will attract 100 per cent funding.
This is to further lower the affordability bar, as the loan applicants will not be required to make down payments of 10 per cent of the house.
Alhaji Mustapha Shehuri, Minister of State for Power, Works and Housing noted that the President Muhammadu Buharis led administration prioritizes the provision of affordable housing for Nigerians.
The federal ministry of power, works and housing will continue striving at ensuring that the challenge of housing deficit in Nigeria, put at 16-17million units is surmounted.
The ministry plans to construct mass housing units in every state of the federation for public workers and individuals, over the next three years under a Public-Private partnership arrangement.
Governor David Umahi noted that the agreement for the construction was signed by the state government and FMBN on July 11, 2005 for the bank to offer 422million in developing 240 housing units.
The agreement stipulated that the fund be released in three tranches but the first tranch of 168milllion released that july was only accessed in 2006.
The FMBN did not release any other fund for the project till 2011 when it released N126m that was accessed in 2014, he said.
Dr Chamberlain Nwele, State Head of Service noted that in adherence to the governors directive, all 72 housing units have been allotted to beneficiaries through due balloting process.
Source: Leadership
A former Attorney-General of the Federation, Bello Adoke, allegedly exchanged more than $2.2 million in a bureau de change in Abuja as part of his share in the controversial $1.1 billion Malabu Oil deal, court documents show.
The revelations were contained in a five-count fresh money laundering charges slammed on Mr. Adoke at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court Thursday.
Also charged alongside Mr. Adoke is controversial businessman Aliyu Abubakar, who is believed to have acted as middleman in the deal.
The EFCC said in the court filings that Mr. Adoke took delivery of exactly $2,267,400 on September 16, 2013, and immediately enlisted the service of money changers to have it converted to the local currency.
Based on the prevailing exchange rate at the time, Mr. Adoke made N345,200,000 after successfully converting the funds. He subsequently deposited all the money in a Unity Bank account to offset an outstanding overdraft of N300 million, court documents showed.
The EFCC also filed charges against Mr. Adoke for carrying out a transaction of such magnitude without going through the countrys financial institutions.
All the offences contradicted Section 15(2) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 (as amended in 2012) and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act, prosecutors said.
Mr. Adoke was instrumental to Nigerian governments involvement in the suspicious Malabu Oil deal, which saw Shell and Agip-Eni paying money into an escrow account of the Nigerian government to settle a firm with a questionable history.
He authorised the transfer of the $1.1 billion paid by Shell and Eni into private accounts of Dan Etete, Nigerias former petroleum minister, who further transferred a large percentage to Mr. Abubakar. Mr. Abubakar is believed to have been a front for officials of the Goodluck Jonathan administration including Mr. Adoke.
Shell, Agip-Eni, Mr. Adoke and Mr. Etete, who also approved the lease award of the OPL 245, have all denied wrongdoings.
But Italian prosecutors said late last year they had enough grounds to charge Shell, Agip-Eni, and their executives alongside other Nigerians involved in the controversial deal for fraud in Milan.
In separate charges filed late 2016, the EFCC accused Mr. Adoke and Mr. Etete of defrauding Nigeria in the OPL 245 deal.
The Department of Petroleum Resources said last December that Mr. Adoke and other officials of the Jonathan administration who participated in the concession of the lucrative oil field to Shell and Agip-Eni did not follow due process.
Mr. Adoke, who is currently in the Netherlands for study, has denied any wrongdoing and pledged to make himself available for trial.
Source: PremiumTimes
A prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Rashidi Ladoja on Thursday told the Federal High Court in Lagos how the former governor brought 22 cars as gift for members of the State House of Assembly to stop his Impeachment in 2005.
The witness, Adewale Atanda also told the trial judge, Justice Mohammed Idris that eventually only 14 cars out of the 22 cars brought was distributed to Ladojas loyalists in the States Assembly while the remaining eight were shared to his family members.
Ladoja was arraigned before the court alongside one of his aides, Waheed Akanbi by the anti-graft agency on an amended eight count charge of money laundering and unlawful conversion of funds belonging to Oyo State to their personal use.
Ladoja and Akanbi however l pleaded not guilty to the charges.
During Thursday proceeds, Atanda, who claimed to be a political associate of Senator Ladoja also informed the court due to his close relationship with the former governor, he was appointed as the Chairman of the Oyo State Housing Corporation in 2005.
The witness while speaking about events during Ladojas tenure said, quite a few things took place during his tenure, but the most memorable thing was his impeachment.
I dont know how the impeachment started but it appeared there was a rift between members of the House of Assembly on one hand and some political actors in the state like Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu, Senator Rashidi Ladoja and to some extent, there were some other external influences from Abuja at the material time.
Many attempts were made to remove Senator Ladoja from office. Petitions were written and at the end of the day, an impeachment process was set in motion.
There were 32 members of the House of Assembly in the state and to successfully impeach the governor, it would require two-third majority support of the members.
It later became obvious that the numbers required will be secured by the opposition and in order to prevent this from happening, promises were made to the lawmakers.
One of such promises is that loyal members of the House of Assembly will be given vehicles.
In the course of all these, I had discussions with Senator Ladoja and I explained to him that it was important that this promise be kept.
At this material time, it was rather impossible to buy these vehicles because they were not included in the budget for the year and we started looking for alternative ways to accommodate these requests.
I then took a loan from Wema Bank in the sum of N80milion which initially was meant to be secured in part by a lien of the funds of Oyo State. But, at the material time, the Commissioner for Finance was unable to deliver on the lien.
So, I had to use my assets and personal guarantee to secure the loan. The vehicles were bought and collected from the various dealers by the drivers of Oyo State Government and delivered to the government house.
20 vehicles were delivered and their brand included Nissan Sunny, Toyota Corrola and Honda Accord. 14 of these vehicles were distributed to some members of the House of Assembly while the other vehicles were put into use by other people, notably, members of Senator Ladojas family.
Inspite of all these, by December 2005, Governor Ladoja was impeached from office, the witness said.
He said after he was impeached, Ladoja and his allies, including the 14 lawmakers loyal to him fled and regrouped in Lagos, where Ladoja continued to take responsibility for the welfare of the lawmakers, who demanded to be paid a monthly income of N1m each after their salaries and allowances had been stopped.
He added that also assembled a team of lawyers, who demanded a fee of N370m to challenge the impeachment up to the Supreme Court.
However, the witness could not conclude his evidence due to time and Justice Idris, adjourned the case till March 27 for continuation of trial.
He further narrated the sequence of events that culminated in Ladojas reclaiming his position in December 2006, when his impeachment was finally nullified by the Supreme Court.
Earlier during yesterdays proceedings, the judge admitted a petition from the office of Secretary to the Oyo State Government (SSG), in which the names of the two accused persons were mentioned.
The document was admitted by the court following the service of copies on the defence lawyers by the EFCCs lawyer.
A prosecution witness, Abdullahi Lawal, who is an investigative officer with the commission, had also earlier informed the court that Adewale Atanda, had in one of his statements indicated a refund of N38.8 million.
Source: Leadership
This true life story was sent to and published by a Facebook user Cynthia Valerian Raphaels
Read below and my opinion afterwards:
Madam I feel so betrayed by my friend. I have a man I am dating and we have always got along with each other, eating fast food and he doesnt complain. It is not that I cant cook, but I cant cook traditional foods at all. I cook light food, spaghetti and white yams and all that.
In my house we have cooks and my mother never cooked for my father, yet they are together. We were good to go till this my friend escorted me to my mans house, we got there and there was no food and my man said we should go out and eat, but my friend said no, that she hates fast food, that if we can give her the money, she will go to the market and buy soup items, which my boyfriend gave her 7k and she went, bought soup and stew items, cooked and stored the rest in my mans freezer, she helped me clean the house and did some washing, so after that we left. My man called me the next weekend that we should come cook for him. so that weekend, he gave us 25k and she bought three soup with banga for stew and that made us to sleep in his house and left the next day, Saturday afternoon.
I didnt know when numbers were exchanged and they started talking at my back and she started going to his house without my knowledge. This my friend, she is always the last to pay departmental dues but since two years now, she pays before I even ask her not knowing my boyfriend is the person behind all her new development.
At the moment, we are in our final year and she is pregnant, she didnt tell me, my boyfriend was the person that called me saying that he cant marry someone that cant cook, that he thank God that we havent been intimate at all, because he believes that no sex before marriage.
He said he is so sorry but he wish to settle down with my friend. Since one month now he said this to me, I have been sober, looks as if he never loved me. My friend too was living in my house all these while, I have told her to leave.
The worse part is that my boyfriend came to pick her with her belongings, took her to his house, where she now resides and my boyfriends driver brings her to school and wait till sh is done at school to take her back.
Her bride price will be paid this Saturday, so I heard.
Madam please Please let me ask please, a woman that cant cook, cant she be a wife material?
Help me ask the men in your forum, Men cant you people marry a woman who cant cook? I am of good character, if he loves me, he should have sent me to catering school. She is 24 years and I am 26 years, jamb messed me up that is why I entered school late and he is 34 years.
***********
Reading the above story caused a little argument between my friend and I, and I told her I was going to write about this. I am sure she is waiting to read.
Before stating my opinion, I will like to note that this relationship was never meant to lead to marriage and whoever the sender is should get herself together (as hard as it sounds) and move one. Your man is on the way.
Reading through comments on the post made clear how shallow minded many people are. Thinking is free but most times, we forget to think.
Its sad that most people who read and reacted to the story above could only think of the fact that a woman should cook, a woman should know how to cook, a woman should be a cook, feminists are telling women not to cook and ruining a womans sole purpose in a marriage cooking. All na cooking cooking cooking and I am wondering, warapin? Sadly, the sender also thought that way as all she really asked was about cooking.
I think it will be better to number my point, so stay with me. For Clarity, I will call the sender Lady B, her friend Lady C and the man Mr. A
1. Food/Cooking is not the reason he did not marry lady B and not enough reason for a man not to marry a woman: Lets note and understand that in marriage or any form of relationship, it involves two individuals from different backgrounds, coming together to co-habit and make things work. It takes a lot of understanding, love and communication to make any relationship stand the test of time. Lady B come from a home where her own mother did not have to cook.
Note that the inability of her mother to cook may not mean that she doesnt know how to cook, it may simply mean that they have an understanding in their home and she just has other important things to do that leaving the cooking to a chef isnt a big deal especially when the man in the house is totally fine by the arrangement.
Now, her not cooking did not break the home and if Lady B still talked about her parents and used them as reference then its safe to say the marriage is still very ok.
Also note that Lady B never said it is not her place to cook neither did I get that impression from her message. Mr. A never complained about it and was very comfortable with his relationship with Lady B until he saw something he thought he wanted or needed in his life in Lady C. which takes me to the next point:
2. Communication the importance of communication in a relationship cannot be over emphasized. You have to communicate and make sure you are communicating. In my relationships, I do not fail to speak and be sure whoever I am speaking to understands what I have said. If as a woman, I expect you to do some of the cooking for me, help me in the kitchen or cook breakfast for me sometimes and you is not doing them, I put it to you direct. And I am happy to say I have never been with jerks. But have I gotten married to them? No! No be all boyfriend go turn husband. And this takes me to my 3rd point.
3. Be real we are hypocrites and its sad that we take this hypocritical part of ourselves into our relationships. If you are or decide to be a hypocrite everywhere, when and where do you get to be real? Is being hypocritical and fake not exhausting? I dey ask o.
Now read this paragraph carefully:
Now we are in final year , she is pregnant, she didnt tell me, my boyfriend was the person that called me saying that he cant marry who that cant cook, that he thank God that we havent been intimate at all, because he believes that no sex before marriage.
How do you believe in no sex before marriage but Lady C is pregnant with your baby? How does that work? This simply shows that the relationship is one based on hypocrisy, fake lifestyle and lies. Or is there a new way of conceiving without sex? Dont even mention IVF. The relationship is one filled with lies, deceit and show off, that they both Lady B and Mr. A were not very sincere with each other or there was never a real discussion and if there was, someone wasnt being real.
4. Lady C is not in love with Mr. B This part of my opinion may not be true but this is how I feel. If Lady C accompanied Lady B to visit Mr. A who turns out to be poor and needy, will Lady C exchange contact behind Lady Bs back? Will she even encourage her friend to chill and grow with her own or tell her to find her level? Of course, she saw a man who was comfortably coughing out 25,000 for 3pots of soup Husband material don plenty na. I feel its Mr. As loss and if he ever gets to face financial challenges in his life, Lady C will either leave his sorry ass or show him the true definition of pepper gang.
5. You were not just betrayed by your friend you see, this is also what happens when a married woman catches her cheating husband in the act. They refuse to focus on the real culprit the so called husband but put all the blame on the other woman. If Lady B has any thinking ability, then she should pick herself up and be grateful to God she did not end up with such man. You were not only betrayed by your friend Lady C but also by Mr. A. It takes two to tangle. Lady B started a relationship with Mr. A who claims to believe in no sex before marriage but was busy consummating other women (yes other women, I do not want to believe he was bedding Lady C by chance), this is not the kind of man you want to spend the rest of your life with because he will continue cheating. He is not going to stop. But what do I know? As most Nigerian women now believe every man cheatssigh* Matter for another day sha
6. You do not have to become a chef to get married I saw some comments insulting her and pointing out why she should be a good cook to keep her husband and I shook my head. All you need to do is know the basics, once you do, there is nothing you cannot cook with the help of a friend, the internet and websites like my friends Nigerialazychef.com
Kindly erase the thought of being a full blown chef before getting married biko. As in every other thing in life, you learn more as you grow. A full grown human being, be you a man or a woman must learn the basics of cooking. Thats all that is needed. I hate hearing a woman is better at kitchen activities than a man. If that is the case, then why are most successful chefs in the world men? We all can do whatever we want to do except it is impossible by natural order, e.g. A man getting pregnant.
7. I do not believe in guarding a man jealously but I saw comments where people blamed Lady B for taking Lady C to her mans home. If we were to be in a sane society, or if humans were not wicked than devil, I would not blame lady B for being very open with her friend.
However, we dey naija o, Lady B, even if she no know, she don dey watch Nollywood, why take a lady to your mans house and then invite her the second time to cook 3 pots of soup for your man? Were you paying her for her services? If you were, were you being professional with her? Did your mother invite her friends to cook for your father? Common! If you cant do the cooking then be professional about it. Order a pot of soup or call a professional cook to prepare the meals and bounce. Its sad that it is that way but like I said, be happy you are not marrying this man because even if you do not invite her to your mans house, he will meet someone else thatd still blow his mind with something as mundane as cooking.
HE IS NOT YOUR MAN! QED!
Culled from elsieisy.com
The national president of Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORAN), Alhaji Muhammad Sani Hassan, has said no fewer than 3o million Nigerians will be rendered jobless if the federal government implements the proposed nationwide ban of commercial motorcycles by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, yesterday, Alhaji Hassan said the Corps Marsha of FRSC, Boboye Oyeyemi, ought to bury his face in shame and resign his position over policy failure as it concerned road safety in Nigeria, noting that the Corps had never organised any form of training for Okada riders in the country.
It is unfortunate the way government agencies treat us. They just wake up and come up with policies that affect us without consulting with us. The FRSC has never organised any training for Okada riders; and they just woke one day and said commercial motorcycles should be banned. What is the offence of Okada riders, he said.
This is even as Alhaji Hassan has the alarm over a faction of ACOMORAN which held an illegal meeting with the minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi at the Shehu Musa YarAdua Centre in Abuja last Tuesday.
He alleged that the faction led by one Alhaji Shehu Maihula Babangida unlawfully changed the registered name of the association from Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORAN) to Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycles Owners, Repairs and Riders Association and adopting its CAC registration number, without due recourse to the Board of Trustees (BoT), an act which he described as criminal.
He, therefore, called on the minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, the Inspector General of Police and the general public from dealing with the Babangida faction as it is a criminal assembly of like minds bent on fomenting and no regards for the law.
Source: Leadership
Exhibitors and traders have lamented low patronage at ongoing 38th edition of the Kaduna International Trade Fair attributing it to the nations economic recession.
The one-week fair, organised by the Kaduna State Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which declared open on February 25 and is expected to close on March 5.
Our correspondent visit to the Kaduna Trade Fair Complex on Zaria-Kano Road, the venue of the event, observed the low presence of customers and visitors, although many school children who came on excursion were seen in some stands.
Most of the traders and exhibitors were seen sitting in front of their stands anxiously waiting for customers that were not much available on ground for business.
In an interview with some of the participants,they blamed the low turnout and patronage on the economic crisis the country is facing and lack of publicity by the trade fair organisers.
Mr Gabriel Uzu, a gas cylinder exhibitor, who compared the ongoing fair with previous ones described the 38th edition as been the worst.
Since I came in here last sunday but as I speak to you I have not seen up to 40 customers. I will not come the next because I cannot by using my money to pay organisers and use it again to feed myself here. It is better I stay in my shop in Kaduna central market. I believe is the economic recession Uzu said.
A pop-corn vendor, Mary Gambo, lamented that: One hundred naira pop corn nobody is buying. I came last monday and up till now I have not make up to N5,000 in four days. Economy is really affecting us here. Last year I made N20,000 in four days
Another exhibitor, Spark James, who hawks toiletries said he ate food with all the money: I sold my things for N500 and I have eaten with the money. Even as I dont have customers because the trade fair is very dry as you can see,i cant die of hunger. I dont have anything to take home because for now I sell and eat with the money he lamented.
When contacted some of the trade fair organisers were not happy and declined comment over the incident as the economy affected exhibitors and traders.
Source: Leadership
The House of Representatives on Thursday decried the high cost fee paid by students of the Nigerian Law School.
Sequel to this, the House mandated its committee on Justice, Tertiary Education and services and Finance to interface with the Director General of Nigerian Law School and other relevant stake holders on the challenge and requirements of the law school.
This member representing Gwer East/Gwer West federal constituency of Benue state, Hon. Mark Gbillah had in a motion
lamented the exponential increase in Law school fees over the last couple of years was alarming.
The increase in law school fees over the last couple of years for the 2016/2017 session of 250,000 and 295,000 for bar part I and bar II Nigeria Law graduate which with additional compulsory payment usually increase to between 320,000 to 350,000 respectively and basic school fees of 1,145,000 and 629,000 for bar part I and bar part II for law graduate from abroad which increases to between 120,000 to 700,000 respectively inclusive of other compulsory payment, is alarming.
He added that the prevailing economic circumstances in the country and the insistence by some legal luminaries that the profession is elitist and the training capital intensive, there is need for quick intervention by the federal government to address the issue.
It is important the federal government and all stockholders stop paying lip service to the problem and initiate an emergency national discourse to safeguard the future of this Nobel profession, he said.
Source: Leadership
The Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC, has said that an estimated three million Nigerians lost N18 billion in the MavrodiMundial Movement, MMM, ponzi scheme.
While speaking at the NDIC day at the ongoing 38th KadunaInternational Trade Fair on Thursday,the Managing Director of thecorporation, Umaru Ibrahim, decried the development.
Over three million Nigerians were participating in MMM before December 2016 when organisers suspended payment to investors due to its system experiencing heavy workload.
By the time the scheme returned in January, few new investors joined and the millions waiting for their payments were left disappointed with majority never paid.
Mr. Ibrahim noted that despite repeated warnings by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and other agencies like the anti-graft EFCC, Nigerians still patronised theponzi scheme.
Mr. Ibrahim, who was represented by NDICs Deputy Director CorporateAffairs, Hadi Suleiman, noted that any financial deal done through any ponzi scheme in form of virtual currencies such as Bitcoin,Ripples, Litecoin, and Onecoin as currencies for medium of exchange, is an Internet-based transaction not authorised by the CBN becauseof the risks involved in its operations.
The NDIC boss cautioned that any person or groups of persons who invest their money in the Phonzi scheme do so at their own risk,adding that such schemes often defraud people of their money.
The ponzi scheme is the phenomenon of illegal fundmanagers,popularly called WonderBanks which have continued to defraud unsuspecting members of thepublic of their hard earned money, he said.This phenomenon has been a source for concern because despite our repeated warnings over the years, some members of the public havecontinued to fall victims of their fraudulent practices.We would like to reiterate the fact that these fund managers are illegal as they are neither licenced by the CBN to take deposits from members of the public nor are those who patronise them covered by the NDIC deposit insurance scheme, he said.
Source: PremiumTimes
Two fraudsters who posed as pastors to defraud innocent citizens have been nabbed by security agents hiding inside a shrine.
It is the end of the road for two self-styled pastors arrested by the police for allegedly defrauding more than 400 people by giving them fake prophecies.
According to reports in Ghana, the two suspects identified as Joseph Braimah, 22, and Derick Kweku Sakyi Baisie, 31 (alias Kweku Money), are said to target well-established traders and other personalities, mainly in the Greater Accra Region and other parts of the country.
They were nabbed after some victims reported their activities to the police. So far, the police have received reports from five victims who have been duped to the tune of GH298,000.
Narrating her ordeal in the hands of the fake pastors, one of the victims, a trader at Tudu, who first reported to the police, is said to have given the false prophets GH75,000, while her son parted with GH220,000, an Apple mobile phone, a KIA Optima and a Mercedes C Class saloon car.
A sister of the trader was also made to part with GH6,000 for prayers to help her overcome her infertility issues, while two other victims were duped of GH4,500 and GH2,500 and an Infinix mobile phone to avert accidents and death.
They are said to have used prophecies of death, accidents, spiritual attacks on businesses and family members, among other dangers to extort money from their victims in the name of saying special prayers for them.
According to Daily Graphic, the Public Relations Officer of the Accra Regional Police Command, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mrs Afia Tenge, said following complaints, the police arrested Braimah in Accra, while his accomplice Baisie was arrested at a shrine at Akyem Abirem in the Eastern Region
She said Baisie was consulting the services of Nana Boame, a renowned fetish priest in the Eastern Region, for protection and powers to avoid arrest.
Mrs Tenge said one of the victims, a trader at Tudu in Accra, told the police that about six months ago she was approached by Braimah, who had been preaching for some time near her shop.
During the encounter, Mrs Tenge said, Braimah requested for the mobile phone contact of the trader and the names of her children, which he claimed he would include in his prayer list. He also promised to assist her with prayers and prophetic direction.
After a few days, she said Braimah connived with Baisie to extort money from the trader.
Mrs Tenge said Baisie dressed as a pastor and visited the traders shop under the guise of buying some of her goods in a bid to establish contact with her.
While in the shop, Baisie is said to have made shocking spiritual revelations about his victim, which unknown to her were based on information provided by Braimah.
Subsequently, Baisie advised that a special prayer must be offered for the victim.
He is also said to have claimed that it had been revealed to him that a young pastor had been visiting the trader and that he was a true man of God who could help her to overcome her spiritual challenges.
Baisie later managed to convince the trader accommodate Braimah in her house to offer intense prayers at all times.
Mrs Tenge said police investigations showed that while in the traders house, Braimah gave more information on the trader and her family to Baisie, who called the trader regularly to claim he had seen those things in revelations.
At a point, she said, the fake prophets gave false prophecies of foreseen accidents which would result in the death of the trader and her family members.
They also claimed a sister of the trader suffering from stroke could be healed, while the infertility problem of another could be overturned with prayers.
After arresting the two suspects, Mrs Tenge said, the police retrieved a list with more than 400 names believed to be victims of the fake prophets.
She said the police had since retrieved the KIA Optima, while the suspects could not produce the money they had allegedly collected from the victims, as they claimed they had given a greater part of it to Nana Boame, the fetish priest.
Cattle and Hog support and resistance for the week ONE44 Analytics - 42 minutes ago You take care of the growing and we will take care of where it's going!
Lean Hogs Weekly Forecast Kolhanov.com - Sun Nov 6, 2:01PM CST The downtrend may be expected to continue, while market is trading below resistance level 84.675, which will be followed by reaching support level 80.675 and if it keeps on moving down below that level,...
Feeder Cattle Weekly Forecast Kolhanov.com - Sun Nov 6, 2:00PM CST The uptrend may be expected to continue, while market is trading above support level 177.700, which will be followed by reaching resistance level 182.375 and 188.250
Live Cattle Weekly Forecast Kolhanov.com - Sun Nov 6, 1:59PM CST The downtrend may be expected to continue, while market is trading below resistance level 152.375, which will be followed by reaching support level 148.325
Soybean Oil Weekly Forecast Kolhanov.com - Sun Nov 6, 1:59PM CST The uptrend may be expected to continue, while market is trading above support level 72.70, which will be followed by reaching resistance level 79.29
Soybean Meal Weekly Forecast Kolhanov.com - Sun Nov 6, 1:58PM CST The uptrend may be expected to continue, while market is trading above support level 419.1, which will be followed by reaching resistance level 431 and 439
Soybean Weekly Forecast Kolhanov.com - Sun Nov 6, 1:57PM CST The uptrend may be expected to continue, while market is trading above support level 1423.2, which will be followed by reaching resistance level 1512.2
Corn Weekly Forecast Kolhanov.com - Sun Nov 6, 1:57PM CST The downtrend may be expected to continue, while market is trading below resistance level 688, which will be followed by reaching support level 674 and if it keeps on moving down below that level, we may...
Wheat Weekly Forecast Kolhanov.com - Sun Nov 6, 1:56PM CST An uptrend will start as soon, as the market rises above resistance level 854.2, which will be followed by moving up to resistance level 904 and 947
Police recently interrupted a burglary in progress at a self-storage facility in Berkeley, Calif., after noticing a suspiciously parked car in front of the property. Three people were arrested on multiple charges in connection with the break in at the Extra Space Storage, according to the source.
Officers were passing the facility at 601 Cedar St. on Feb. 25 when they spotted a vehicle parked in a handicapped spot after 9 p.m. While speaking with a woman who was sitting in the car, the officers saw in plain sight a substance they suspected to be drugs. They then discovered a man and a woman inside the storage facility.
The vehicle contained 59 grams of methamphetamine. Upon searching the suspects homes, investigators gathered evidence of additional crimes, the source reported.
Leah J. Pollack, a 34-year-old dog groomer, was charged with burglary, felony firearm possession, forgery, false impersonation, grand theft, identity theft, possession of burglary tools, receiving stolen property and willful cruelty to a child. Police also recovered an illicit gun at her home. Pollack, who was on probation for a prior conviction, is being held at Berkeley City Jail on a $395,000 bond, the source reported.
Antonia Samaguey, 46, allegedly had stolen property in hands when arrested, the source reported. Shes been charged with attempted burglary, possession of burglary tools, possession of a controlled substance and receiving stolen property. Shes being held on a $330,000 bond at Berkeley City Jail.
Gerardo Vega, 38, was charged with burglary, felony possession of ammunition, possession of a controlled substance for sale, possession of burglary tools, receiving stolen property and transporting a controlled substance. Hes being held at Berkeley City Jail on a $465,000 bond.
Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Extra Space is a self-storage real estate investment trust that owns or operates 1,427 self-storage properties in 38 states; Washington, D.C.; and Puerto Rico. The companys properties comprise approximately 960,000 units and 107 million square feet of rentable space.
The Tennessee Self Storage Association (TNSSA) has named Allen Baxter, manager of the Nolensville, Tenn., location for A+ Storage of Tennessee LLC, as its 2016 Manager of the Year. Its the second consecutive year and fourth time in five years that an A+ Storage manager has received the award. Ashley Dawn, the former manager of the companys Mt. Juliet, Tenn., property, received the award in 2015; Betsi Jackson, manager of A+ in Murfreesboro, Tenn., was honored in 2013; and Stephanie Tharpe, the companys senior vice president of operations, won it in 2012.
Baxter had been previously nominated by A+ executives twice, according to the TNNSA website. Under his stewardship, the Nolensville site increased its revenue by 22 percent in 2016. He also lowered delinquencies to $961 in receivables over 10 days past due, according to an association press release. A+ also gave him its own Highest Net Rentals award last year.
Baxter works with several organizations in his community, including the Town Events Committee, the Nolensville Historical Society and the Nolensville Area Business Council. As a facility manager, he actively supports his community by sponsoring the citys July 4 Celebration, Nolensville Farmers Market and local schools, among other events and organizations. His community outreach earned him the A+ 2016 Community Service Award.
It has been my delight to continue to watch him grow in success each year, and it is my honor to nominate such a deserving candidate for this award, Tharpe wrote as part of Baxters nomination.
TNSSA also honored runner-up Amy Calixte, a manager at StorPlace Self Storage in Murfreesboro, Tenn., for Outstanding Management and Customer Service in 2016. Calixte, whos been with the company for five years, increased the average rental rate at her property by more than $30 per unit while maintaining an average occupancy above 94 percent. She also kept an accounts-receivable average of 8 percent for the year. In addition, the property underwent an office remodel, new gate installation and construction of a new building.
StorPlace operates one property in Bowling Green, Ky., and 17 in Tennessee, with a heavy concentration in Nashville.
Founded in 2003, A+ Storage operates seven facilities in Fortress, La Vergne, Mt. Juliet/Providence, Murfreesboro, Nashville, Nolensville and Spring Hill/Columbia, Tenn.
Swiss activist investor RBR Capital Advisors thinks 2019 is too long to wait for asset manager GAM Holding to improve the firm which has suffered client outflows on the back of dismal performance for two years running and the dissident shareholder is pressuring GAM to make big changes, fast.
GAM has been slashing costs and revamping funds in an attempt to slow clients withdrawals from its products. The firm revealed in its annual report yesterday that investors pulled 10.7 billion swiss francs ($10.6 billion) from its funds last year, while performance fee income plummeted from 82.8 million francs to 3 million francs. The firms assets under management rose 1 percent, to 120.7 billion francs.
GAM, like many asset managers who operate hedge funds, has been suffering as investors have become skeptical of the sector amid disappointing returns and high fees. GAM CEO Alexander Friedman has been restructuring the investment manager, saying in a statement accompanying the results, Our 2016 earnings were disappointing on two fronts: we recorded net outflows for the year and realized very low performance fees. We are addressing both issues through our strategic initiatives, many of which have started to bear fruit, while our unrelenting focus on cost discipline is showing results.
But Friedman said the changes wont be complete until 2019, with the firm aiming to cut $30 million in additional expenses by then. That isnt fast enough for RBR.
In our view, if you need to put in place a change program, you need to act quickly, says Kasia Robinski, a partner with Hanover Investors in London and a veteran private equity executive whom the RBR Strategic Value fund, which owns 2.1 percent of GAM, has proposed to replace GAMs current chairman. There is not a sufficient sense of urgency at the company. If you look back at performance over the past three years, it paints a picture of issues not being addressed.
RBR says it has been engaged in behind-the-scenes meetings and written correspondence with the company about strategy. A GAM spokeswoman says the company doesnt disclose the content of private meetings with investors.
RBR proposed three new members for GAMs board: Robinski, William Raynar, and Rudolph Bohli, founder and chief investment officer of RBR. GAMs board chairman, Johannes de Gier, is retiring, but GAM proposed that current board member Hugh-Scott Barrett be elected to chairman and a new board member, David Jacob, CEO of fixed income asset manager Rogge Global Partners, join the board.
Our view is that teams that have not delivered need to be strengthened; whereas we welcome a change in the chairman and the appointment of one new individual to the board of directors, we do not consider that these changes go far enough, adds Robinski.
Upcoming disclosures will show that RBRs stake in GAM will rise to more than 3 percent, according to one person familiar with RBRs holdings. Robinski would only confirm the 2.1 percent ownership stake.
The federal government has been called on to address the concerns of Far North Queensland homeowners on exorbitant home insurance premiums.A campaign has been launched by Roger Ward of Cairns Mortgage Brokers that encourages the government to review the merits of resurrecting the State Government Insurance Office ( SGIO ) to offer consumers more affordable policies for natural disasters.SGIO was sold off in 1996, leaving Far North residents paying thousands of dollars more for insurance as compared to those in southern cities.The member for Mulgrave said he wrote to Kelly ODwyer, federal minister for revenue and financial services, to urge the Commonwealth to make a critically overdue response to a report by the Northern Australia Insurance Premiums Taskforce.Like other locals I know, insurance affordability in Far North Queensland is a major concern, he told the Cairns Post. I know that the rapid increases weve seen in insurance premiums are in some cases over 1,000% in recent years.Queensland treasurer Curtis Pitt claimed the state government will only be capable of operating a general insurance business if it diverts funds from health and education, Cairns Post reported.Pitt cited findings by the Northern Australia Insurance Premium Taskforce that listed mitigating premiums, such as cyclone-proofing households, as the key to lowering consumer costs.Clearly we cannot influence where, when, or how hard a cyclone will hit, but we can do things to reduce its impact, he said.Barron River MP Craig Crawford said he was not opposed to reviving SGIO and planned to discuss the idea with his departmental staff.
IBC is encouraging all MHAs to support these important changes, Dean explained. Our industry will keep working with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to help reduce this senseless, dangerous, and completely avoidable crime.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) issued a release yesterday, congratulating the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for announcing legislation that amends portions of the Highway Traffic Act.
The proposed changes impose stiffer penalties for motorists charged with impaired driving.
IBC fully supports the governments proposed changes and we welcome this fantastic announcement, said IBC Atlantic vice-
president Amanda Dean. Impaired driving takes far too many lives and its something that can be easily avoided. Property and casualty insurers are committed to working with governments across Canada to reduce impaired driving and to keep our roads safe for everyone. This is an important step and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is to be commended for this legislation.
The government said that the proposed amendments would expand the provinces vehicle impoundment program. In particular, it would make it mandatory for officers to order the vehicle of an impaired driver to be impounded immediately. Another change proposed is the introduction of a mandatory ignition interlock program as a condition for a convicted drivers licence reinstatement. Also, drivers younger than 22 years of age will be required to maintain a blood alcohol content of 0% under the new legislation.
IBC is encouraging all MHAs to support these important changes, Dean explained. Our industry will keep working with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to help reduce this senseless, dangerous, and completely avoidable crime.
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Sanford Heisler, LLP has filed a $50 million amended complaint in the US District Court on behalf of claims specialists Debra Julian and Stephanie McKinney, against MetLife , Inc., the nations largest insurance company, and two of its subsidiaries, Metropolitan Life Insurance Company and MetLife Insurance Company USA.Julian and McKinney both worked for the insurer on long term disability insurance claims as Claim Specialists (LTD Claim Specialists). Both allege that they and other LTD Claim Specialists regularly worked between 45 and 60 hours per week, yet havent received overtime compensation since November of 2013 when MetLife, according to the complaint, misclassified them as exempt, salaried employees.Julian and McKinney originally filed separate actions. McKinney, who worked for MetLife in Connecticut, first filed a nationwide collective action on February 7, 2017 under the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act and a class action of Connecticut employees. Julian, who worked for MetLife in New York, filed her first Complaint on February 8, 2017 as an overtime class action under New York law on behalf of a class of New York employees. The new lawsuit consolidates McKinneys and Julians claims in one action.Combining Ms. McKinneys and Ms. Julians actions will result significant litigation efficiencies, explained Jeremy Heisler, Managing Partner of Sanford Heislers New York Office. Those efficiencies will benefit the Plaintiffs and the classes of employees they seek to represent.The Amended Complaint alleges MetLife misclassified LTD Claim Specialists in all of its offices, explained Andrew Melzer, Co-Chair of Sanford Heislers Wage & Hour Practice. This misclassification affected employees in New York, in Connecticut, and in other states, including Illinois. We are seeking nationwide relief for these current and former MetLife employees.
Georgias insurance commissioner is pleading the cause of insurance agents to the newly appointed federal health secretary and fellow Georgian Tom Price.Commissioner Ralph Hudgens argued in a February letter that the current medical loss ratio (MLR) rule has dramatically reduced the commissions insurance agents receive from the sale of health insurance products.The rule stipulates that insurers must spend 80% to 85% of premiums on medical care and efforts to improve the quality of care, or refund a portion of the premiums that exceed this limit, a report by the Albany Herald explained.Neither the current law nor any reform effort will be successful unless a large number of healthy Georgians decide to sign up for coverage. However, the previous administration had a fundamental distrust of the role agents play in the orderly delivery of health insurance, his letter was further quoted as saying.However, Cindy Zeldin of Georgians for a Healthy Future, an organization that supports the Affordable Care Act, which provides for the MLR rule, said it plays an essential role in holding insurance companies accountable for how they spend the premium dollars they collect from consumers.
USAA gave president and chief executive Stuart Parker 19% more in salaries from its businesses in 2016, which the company described as historic due to catastrophe-related claims.
Data from the Nebraska Department of Insurance revealed that USAAs four businesses paid Parker $2.7 million in 2016 compared with $2.3 million in 2015.
MySA added in a report that the companys 2016 financial performance was affected by several factors, including what it said was a historic year for catastrophe related claims.
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Claims rose more than 200% last year due partly to hailstorms and Hurricane Matthew, the publication reported.
Its other employees also got an across the board 16.8% annual performance bonus in 2016, reflecting a marginal decline from the 17% paid out in 2015. It was the lowest payout since 2008, the report added.
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The European Unions market watchdog is investigating ways to stop national regulators competing unfairly with each other as they try to attract firms from Britain after Brexit in a beauty parade of financial centers.
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) told Reuters it is studying the risk of regulatory arbitrage where some EU states might offer financial firms lighter supervision than other member states in return for the jobs and high tax revenue they would bring.
While the issue concerns business coming from any non-EU country, ESMAs move is an early sign of how some regulators believe there may be a particular need for precautionary measures for when Britain leaves the bloc.
Regulators in a number of EU countries have made clear they will not tolerate brass plate arrangements, where business is officially routed through an office in a member state but senior executives and IT systems remain in London, Europes dominant financial center.
However, the risk is that some EU states might be tempted to break ranks and allow such front operations after Brexit.
The issue is particularly likely to affect asset management; Britain is the second largest center for this after the United States, managing 5.7 trillion pounds ($7 trillion) on behalf of clients, many of them in continental Europe.
Financial firms in the UK, worried they will lose access to the blocs capital market, are deciding whether to move some operations and staff to new bases on the continent or in Ireland.
Frankfurt, Paris, Luxembourg and Dublin are vying to attract banks, market infrastructure firms, insurers or asset managers.
A spokesman for Paris-based ESMA said its inquiries concerned issues that a national regulator in the EU may face when financial firms from another country show an interest or make an application for a license.
It is not focused on efficiency issues of different financial centers, but rather looking at issues around outsourcing and delegation which could lead to regulatory arbitrage, an ESMA spokesman said.
Outsourcing and delegation refers to when key functions of operations in an EU state are being carried out in a country outside the bloc, such as in fund management. Worries could center around, for example, a firm being granted a license to operate a subsidiary in an EU country but being allowed to run much of units operations from its office in Britain.
EU rules require safeguards to ensure continuity of service and clear lines of management responsibilities.
Financial watchdogs have told banks they will have to have a certain amount of capital, senior staff on the ground and approved risk models to get a license to operate across the EU.
The European Central Bank has considerable powers to clamp down, as it must first grant the license for, say, a London-based bank that wants to move operations to Frankfurt.
This is not necessarily the case in other areas like markets, which lack such powerful pan-European regulators.
A financial industry official in London said that it made sense to have some sort of common approach among regulators across the EU for the authorisation of new firms.
But ESMA is hamstrung as they can only provide a non-legally binding recommendation, which the national regulators can freely ignore, the official said.
Discussions of Brexit-related moves are already well underway.
Hiscox, an insurance underwriter in London, said on Monday it was in talks with regulators in Luxembourg and Malta about setting up a new insurance base in one of the countries.
Lloyds of London, the insurance market that Hiscox trades on, has also looked at several locations for a new EU unit.
Andreas Dombret, a Bundesbank board member, said last week that regulators must not try to undercut each other by offering firms discounts or incentives to relocate operations and staff to their financial center.
There are market participants talking about this, I dont have any direct evidence, Dombret said.
($1 = 0.8149 pounds) (Editing by David Stamp)
Related:
Topics Europe London
Italys biggest insurer Generali has hired BNP Paribas to sell its Dutch business as part of a plan to cut costs in weaker markets and boost profits, sources told Reuters.
Generali, which generates most of its revenues and earnings in Italy, France and Germany, is looking to auction off its subsidiary Generali Nederland N.V., which has been active in the Netherlands for more than 140 years covering risks from damage to income, pensions and life insurance.
If successful, the deal would be the first in a series of divestments that Generali announced in November in a bid to raise about 1 billion euros ($1 billion) by leaving 13 to 15 countries.
Representatives of Generali and BNP Paribas declined to comment.
Generali more than tripled its overall net profit in the Netherlands between 2014 and 2015, generating 5.4 million euros in 2015. But its non-life insurance unit, Generali Schade, was hit by shrinking demand with net profits plunging from 4.5 million euros in 2014 to 1.9 million euros in 2015.
Generalis French boss Philippe Donnet recently came under pressure as he tried to fend off a takeover attempt by Italys biggest retail bank, Intesa Sanpaolo, which was hoping to create a financial giant with a market value of around 60 billion euros.
On Feb. 24 Intesa decided against launching a takeover bid for Generali, arguing the deal would not create enough value for its investors.
Generali, whose biggest shareholder is influential investment bank Mediobanca, is seen by Rome as a strategic asset because of its large holdings of Italian government bonds.
Yet the insurer, which ranks as Europes third biggest, remains vulnerable to declining profits and possible approaches by larger rivals Allianz and Axa, the sources said.
Generali is more focused than its main competitors on capital-intensive traditional life products, rather than on unit-linked or index-linked policies.
Two of the sources said Generali will announce an acceleration in its cost-cutting efforts at its annual results on March 16.
Generali, with a market value of 21.4 billion euros, has seen its share price tumble almost 27 percent over the past 24 months.
Its chief financial officer and general manager Alberto Minali quit in January leaving Donnet, who took over as CEO a year ago, to pursue a pledge to cut operating costs in mature markets by 200 million euros over the 2016-19 period.
The sources said the insurer has put a number of countries under review, including Belgium and Portugal where it lacks scale.
In South America it is looking to sell its local subsidiaries in Colombia, Panama and Ecuador, they said, although it has yet to pick banks to manage the process. But Argentina and Brazil are seen as core markets.
The Trieste-based insurer may need up to 18 months to finalize all the planned divestments, one of the sources said, pointing to lackluster appetite among industry players due to Generalis marginal presence in most of these countries.
Insurers that recently fled Latin American markets include Britains RSA, which sold its local business to Colombias Grupo Sura in 2015 for 403 million pounds.
($1 = 0.9507 euros) (Additional reporting by Stephen Jewkes and Gianluca Semeraro in Milan; Editing by Ruth Pitchford)
Topics Generali Life Assurance (Thailand) Plc.
Dozens of public workers gathered on March 1 at the Iowa Capitol in opposition to a bill that would reduce compensation for getting injured on the job, just weeks after legislators voted to severely limit their collective bargaining rights.
The proposed legislation, which was introduced on Feb. 27, cuts off worker benefits at 67, minimizes late fees for employers and reduces benefits for injuries tied to a pre-existing condition, among other provisions that critics say will overhaul the current system to burden employees and favor businesses.
The bill cleared House and Senate commerce subcommittees on March 1, with full committee consideration expected the following day. The legislation will need approval from a committee before the end of the week to survive a legislative deadline for policy bills.
Morgan Miller, a spokeswoman for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Iowa Council 61, said the workers compensation bill discriminates against older people, decreases employer liability for injuries and reduces employer incentives to pay claims on time. If passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor, the bill would take effect immediately.
It removes protections that our workers have on the job right now, Miller said. In general, the bill tips the scales in favor of employers and away from hardworking Iowans and those who are very vulnerable because they have suffered workplace injuries.
John Stineman, executive director for the Iowa Chamber Alliance, defended businesses in favor of the legislation. He said many companies support the Iowas Workers Compensation Act but object to rising benefit costs and legal efforts that target employers.
The reality is that we have seen great increases and it needs to be addressed, he said. Its not so much that this legislation is a radical departure from what todays law is. Its more that the interpretation and application of todays statute is a radical departure from what its original intent was.
Jason Neifert, a workers compensation lawyer with the Iowa Association for Justice, warned that medical costs for injured workers would simply be transferred from businesses to taxpayers if the measure becomes law.
These are not tweaks. These are not little fixes, he said. This is a major overhaul of our workers compensation system.
Thomas Jochum, from the Central Iowa Building Construction Trades Council, criticized lawmakers for rushing to introduce the bill without asking workers groups for input on its impact.
If were going to work together to solve problems, then you have to bring everybody to the table, Jochum said. You missed an opportunity here.
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Legislation Claims Workers' Compensation Talent Iowa
More extreme weather has led to more extreme insurance claims in the U.S. over the past few years.
In a review of more than 100,000 commercial catastrophe claims during a 10-year period, Mark A. Anderson, a claims executive at Nationwide Insurance, noticed a steady climb in claims severity.
Nationwide saw a 26-percent increase in average severity over the three-year period of 2014 to 2016 compared with the seven-year period between 2007 and 2013.
The total number of claims is also on the rise.
The number of claims that we have seen the last three years is up about 14 percent compared to seven years prior, said Anderson, who works out of Nationwides headquarters with an official title of associate vice president of commercial lines property technical claims.
The Columbus, Ohio-based carrier has also seen a 14-percent increase in unique commercial catastrophe events when comparing those same time periods.
Anderson has been looking at claims figures a long time. Hes been with Nationwide since 2014. Prior to that, he was at Liberty Mutual Insurance for 36 years.
The last three years obviously we have had much warmer than normal winters, Anderson said. In 2016 and 2017 here in the Midwest, we had the warmest February in history. I think any time that you have that warm of weather in the winter and you see the major swing in the weather patterns, the cold fronts, it has a tendency to increase the frequency and the severity of the storms.
Is this climate change at work?
Anderson is a good company man and when asked that, it was clear he didnt wish to hop into a political grinder by offending those who dont believe in climate change, so he steered away from attributing the more frequent extreme weather events to global warming.
I dont know that Im in a position to comment on that, but certainly theres no question that the winters that weve seen in the Midwest and east of the Mississippi are much warmer than we have seen in many years, Anderson said. And I think anytime we see that type of warm weather, especially the Midwest and East, its going to make for some very disruptive weather patterns, which are very difficult to forecast.
He added with a hint of amazement in his tone: Theres tornadoes forecast for the Chicago area this evening.
He spoke about this with Insurance Journal on Tuesday. The following day a storm system killed at least three people as it spawned tornadoes and damaged dozens of homes in the central U.S. One person was killed when a tree was uprooted by a tornado in Ottawa, which is roughly 70 miles southwest of Chicago, the Chicago Tribune reported.
Nationwide has so far seen roughly 260 commercial catastrophe claims related to the recent severe weather in the Midwest.
Theres no denying there has been some perplexing weather recently, which Anderson had no issue pointing out.
This past 12 to 18 months weve seen storms that we have not seen in the past or would expect to normally see, he said.
One example he offered was the recent flooding in California that follows a prolonged drought.
Heavy rains last month prompted fears of flooding from the Oroville Dam east of the Sacramento Valley. Water from the storm-swollen lake behind the dam spilled down the unpaved slope, eroding the slope to the point that authorities ordered evacuations for nearly 200,000 people.
Data provider CoreLogic estimated at the time that roughly 50,047 single- and multi-family residential homes could be damaged with an estimated reconstruction cost value of $13.3 billion if the 770-foot dam the nations tallest were to fail completely.
On Tuesday the San Jose City Council ratified an emergency declaration in response to historic flooding last week in that area. The declaration followed estimates from city officials that flooding caused $50 million in private property damage and $23 million in public property damage.
Some experts think such events could become more frequent.
NPR in a report on Monday interviewed a Stanford University professor who said California is likely to see more extreme flooding with climate change because warmer storms produce more rain instead of snow.
Noah Diffenbaugh, a climate scientist at Stanford University, said Californias water system wasnt built for the current climate the state is experiencing when it was designed a century ago.
The states flood system can handle a slow melt from the Sierra Mountains, but not a huge amount of rain all at once, he said.
Our water system was really built in an old climate, Diffenbaugh told NPR. Its a climate that is no longer the climate of California.
With extreme weather and claims severity on the rise, Anderson was most interested in speaking about Nationwides second annual Small Business Indicator.
The survey, which also highlights the increased claims severity figures, was conducted online with 502 U.S. small-business owners with fewer than 300 employees by Harris Poll on behalf of Nationwide from June 10 through 23.
It showed a lot of small business owners arent well prepared for natural catastrophes.
A majority (68 percent) of small-business owners dont have a written disaster recovery plan even though nearly half those surveyed said it would take their business at least three months to recover from a natural disaster.
The survey also showed that many small business owners dont take disaster preparedness as seriously as they should.
Of the small business owners that indicated they did not have a disaster recovery plan for their business, there was also 68 percent that indicated they do have a family evacuation plan at home, Anderson said. I think that what were trying to get across is that when a business owner feels that a disaster plan is important enough for their family and the protection of their family, they should have that same concern for the safety and health and well-being of their employees.
Herein lies an opportunity, in Andersons view.
He thinks these Nationwide figures, and the recent wacky weather, are good tools for insurance agents to use to talk to customers about business interruption and other forms of insurance that go above and beyond basic property insurance.
Heres a good place to note that the Nationwide survey shows 71 percent of small businesses dont have business interruption insurance.
Imagine an extreme weather event plows through a small town yet misses a small business. The storm, however, knocked out the areas electrical grid for two or three weeks. Insurance policies only cover direct physical loss, so a policy or endorsement that provides coverage for a power outage away from the premises would have been a wise choice for that now powerless company.
Anderson, in offering his hypothetical scenario, took the opportunity to pitch Nationwides Utility Interruption Insurance, an additional coverage under a standard BOP or commercial property policy.
Basic business interruption insurance and property insurance can be expanded to include this coverage with two specific endorsements:
Utility services time element, which is an endorsement that covers losses for an event in which winds break down a power line or a water main is broken, including loss of income and expenses, up to a predetermined time limit or until the power or water service is restored.
Utility services direct damage is an endorsement thats an extension of property insurance, providing protection against damage to property resulting from an interruption of any of the utility services named in the policy as a result of a covered cause, such as a windstorm.
To end on a high note, Anderson did point out that disaster planning awareness appears to be on the rise.
In the previous survey, 34 percent of small businesses polled did not feel that a disaster preparedness plan was high priority. Only 21 percent said such a plan was not a high priority in the latest survey.
I think that theres a greater recognition that there is a need to be prepared, Anderson said.
Past columns:
Topics California Catastrophe USA Claims Flood Climate Change Property
A federal judge on Thursday dismissed a whistleblower lawsuit by a former Moodys Investors Service managing director and said he deserves none of the $863.8 million that Moodys agreed to pay to settle claims it inflated mortgage ratings prior to the 2008 financial crisis.
U.S. District Judge William Pauley said Ilya Eric Kolchinsky could not show that the Moodys Corp. unit violated the federal False Claims Act, given how the government kept paying for its ratings even after learning they might be compromised.
The Manhattan judge said this barred Kolchinsky from sharing in Moodys Jan 13 settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice and the attorneys general of 21 states and the District of Columbia, though the terms left open that prospect.
This court acknowledges that this a harsh result, Pauley wrote. Kolchinsky provided enormously helpful information to various congressional committees and government investigators.
Stephen Weiss, a lawyer for Kolchinsky, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Moodys said: We are pleased that the court has dismissed the case in its entirety.
Kolchinsky accused Moodys of issuing bogus ratings for mortgage securities, credit default swaps and collateralized debt obligations in a push to win more fees.
Moodys has received wide criticism for such practices, as have its main rivals Standard & Poors and Fitch.
In its settlement, Moodys acknowledged it did not follow its own rating standards, though the New York-based company did not admit liability.
The accord resolved claims under the federal Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act, or FIRREA, and various state laws.
Pauley nonetheless concluded that even if the claims did overlap Kolchinskys, he could not financially benefit.
This court is particularly sympathetic to Kolchinskys position in light of the serious and far-reaching effects that Moodys conduct had on the American economy, Pauley wrote.
This observation does not, however, cure the deficiencies in Kolchinskys pleadings or enable him to collect a share of the FIRREA settlement.
The government decided in 2014 not to join Kolchinskys lawsuit, leaving him to pursue it on his own.
S&P, part of S&P Global Inc, reached its own $1.375 billion settlement with federal and state authorities in 2015 to settle similar allegations.
Pauley dismissed an earlier version of Kolchinskys lawsuit in February 2016. Thursdays dismissal was with prejudice, meaning the case cannot be brought again.
The case is U.S. ex rel Kolchinsky v. Moodys Corp. et al, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 12-01399.
(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Cynthia Osterman
Topics USA New York
XL Catlins insurance companies and Professional Governmental Underwriters Inc. (PGU) have entered into an underwriting agreement to offer public entity management and employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) to public officials, educators and law enforcement agencies in the US.
Under the agreement, PGU will offer the following coverages through XL Catlin insurance companies:
Educators legal liability and employment practices liability: Designed for colleges, universities as well as public and charter, parochial and private K-12 school systems, the policy provides protection against a range of employment practices and educators professional liability claims, including hire discrimination, defense of non-monetary actions related to special education, redistricting and employment practices.
Police professional liability insurance: This insurance policy provides coverage for acts, errors, and omissions that occur while officers perform their professional duties.
Public officials liability and employment practices liability: This policy is tailored for any municipal governmental entity including, but not limited to, cities, towns, townships, boroughs, counties, villages, special service districts, authorities and commissions. The coverage offers protection against claims related to discrimination in selecting, promoting, disciplining or dismissing employees as well as mismanagement or improper administration of funds, grants, or budgets and improper granting or denying of franchises, permits or licenses, among other disputes.
Teachers, school board members, police officers and public officials are held to very high standards, said Frank Palermo, underwriting manager of XL Catlins Commercial Errors & Omissions (E&O) business in North America.
He added that XL Catlin is pleased to team up with PGU, which understands risks unique to public officials and can help us deliver the robust insurance protection and risk management guidance they need to protect their livelihoods and their commitment to public service.
Those who dedicate themselves to public service have very unique professional liability exposures, said Martin H. Kanipe, president of the Richmond, Virginia-based PGU.
Teachers and school boards, for instance, can find themselves facing claims alleging failure to educate, discrimination, denial of special education services, among others, he added.
On the other hand, police officers and their departments can face claims of negligence, failure to protect, false arrest or civil rights violations, Kanipe went on to say. For the last two decades, weve focused solely on crafting insurance and loss prevention to protect these professionals and were pleased to enlist XL Catlin to support this growing market.
Source: XL Catlin
Topics Law Enforcement AXA XL
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLPs epic screw-up at the Oscars could carry a high cost if jurors arrive at a malpractice trial next week suspecting the global accounting firm is error-prone.
Until a PwC accountant handed Warren Beatty the wrong envelope for the Best Picture award, its lawyers only had to worry about adversary MF Global Holdings Ltd. Now, PwCs attorneys will also be concerned that jurors who watched the Feb. 26 awards ceremony will begin the trial doubting the firms expertise, jury consultants said.
Thats particularly worrisome in a case where New York-based PwC is accused of contributing to the 2011 collapse of MF Global, the N.Y. brokerage formerly run by Jon Corzine. MF Global is seeking as much as $3 billion.
The MF Global meltdown is entirely unrelated to what happened at the Oscars, said Leticia Ostler, a jury consultant in San Diego. Yet jurors may ask whats to say theyre not making the same mistake in other areas?
Richard Marooney, a lawyer for PwC, declined through a spokesman to comment on how PwCs lawyers will handle the Oscars issue.
Bad Address
PwC accountants Brian Cullinan and Martha Ruiz were backstage at the Oscars, tasked with safeguarding the envelopes with the names of the winners and handed over the wrong one, triggering a globally televised fiasco. The firm, which has collected and counted votes since 1935, apologized for the error.
Potential jurors may have seen Cullinan on the cover of the New York Post or the Daily News, the citys two tabloid newspapers, smiling broadly in his tuxedo and holding a PwC briefcase. A Post headline called him The Twit who blew the Oscars. A Daily News article began, Dont let this guy do your taxes.
Most people know about the screw-up, said Thaddeus Hoffmeister, an expert on juries who teaches law at the University of Dayton. I dont know if they necessarily connect it with PwC. Theres a concern that you actually bring the topic up and then theyre like Oh, I did not know that.'
Jury experts said lawyers may snoop into potential jurors social-media accounts to see if theyve commented about the flub. And while they are instructed not to seek out information outside the courtroom, Hoffmeister said its common for jurors to do research on the internet.
His advice: dont put millennials on the jury.
They have more faith in Google than they do a witness on the witness stand, he said.
Settlement Hopes
U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero delayed the case last month in hopes the parties would settle. They didnt. Corzine is expected to testify at the trial scheduled to start March 6 and is projected to last four to five weeks.
The trial will focus on a strategy pushed by Corzine when he took over leadership of MF Global in early 2010. Corzine had the firm make bets on European sovereign debt, financed through a type of bond repurchase agreement called a repurchase-to-maturity or RTM transaction.
MF Global claims PwC negligently signed off on its faulty RTM accounting, which in turn contributed to MF Globals meltdown. Daniel Fetterman, a lawyer for MF Global, declined to comment on the trial.
PwC says its accounting was correct and MF Global is wrongly trying to blame it for the failure of a strategy designed by Corzine and blessed by the firms in-house accountants. Marooney, the lawyer for PwC, called the case a lottery-ticket lawsuit, a long-shot attempt to force it to pay for MF Globals disastrous mistakes.
The case is MF Global Holdings LTD. v. Pricewaterhousecoopers, 14-cv-02197, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York (Manhattan).
Related:
Copyright 2022 Bloomberg.
Topics Trends New York Medical Professional Liability
Major business interests are lining up against one of Lt. Gov. Dan Patricks top priorities a bill that would make it harder for Texans to force their insurance companies to pay up when calamity strikes.
Patrick and his allies say the bill, Senate Bill 10, is needed to stop greedy trial lawyers from cashing in on hail damage lawsuits. But the word hail doesnt appear anywhere in the legislation, and this week businesses ranging from 7-Eleven to Ryan LLC founded and led by Republican mega-donor Brint Ryan conveyed their deep opposition to it in a letter sent to Patrick and other top Republican leaders.
The blistering critique of the bill, which has a companion, House Bill 1774, in the House, was sent on behalf of the major corporate interests by Haynes & Boone lawyer Ernest Martin. He warns it greatly harms businesses by making it harder for anyone who insures property in Texas to get paid after filing a claim. Trial lawyer interests have been making the same argument about the impact on average Texans, but they dont have the kind of political stroke business groups enjoy at the Capitol.
This insurance bill does more harm to Texas business policyholders than it does to prevent litigation abuses by homeowners or their storm chasing lawyers, Martin wrote. He said the legislation would thwart Texas businesses from recovering legitimate claims under insurance policies they purchased at great cost.
Texans for Lawsuit Reform, which is pushing the bill, said consumers and businesses would still have remedies to pursue claims if the measure passes.
SB 10 puts in place common-sense reforms to stop the worst lawyer-driven lawsuit abuse that currently exists in Texas, while protecting the right of every Texas property owner residential or commercial to sue his or her insurance company if it fails to pay a claim on time or in full, said spokeswoman Lucy Nashed.
Besides Ryan LLC and 7-Eleven, the companies named in the letter include La Quinta Inns & Suites, Sovereign Bank, pipeline company EnLink Midstream, EXCO Resources and others.
The opposition mirrors the business blowback that killed a similar effort two years ago. Patrick and other supporters are pushing a new version of the legislation this session, again saying its about hailstorm lawsuits even though the bill would enact sweeping changes for Texans with all kinds of claims against their own insurance companies.
The lawyers found another way to try to make a lot of money, Patrick said in a video posted on Facebook a couple of weeks ago. We need to end these skyrocketing claims weve seen over the last several years dealing with hailstorms.
Patricks media office did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday.
One key provision in the bill would make it harder to force insurers to pay claims under the states prompt pay rules designed to penalize foot-dragging by insurance companies. The Texas Trial Lawyers Association leveled that same criticism in a position paper which screams This is not a HAIL BILL! provided to legislators.
The bill seeks to reward insurance companies when they delay payments on ANY first-party claim on all lines of insurance, including life, health, disability, property, liability, business and any other type of first party insurance, the trial lawyers group said.
Martin, the Haynes and Boone lawyer, pointed to that provision in his four-page analysis of the bills impact on business.
The insurance bill guts the effectiveness of the Prompt Pay statute, which is to incentivize insurance companies to err on the side of paying claims timely, he wrote. Martin also criticized the burdensome notice requirements imposed on policyholders and provisions that would force many insurance claims into federal court and erect new hurdles for recovering attorney fees when lawsuits are filed.
Nashed said the bill is about protecting consumers from spiking insurance rates. As a result of this abusive litigation, some Texas property insurance consumers have already begun to see reduced or lost coverage or higher insurance rates, she said, which will continue to spread if this abuse isnt stopped soon.
Note: This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2017/03/01/businesses-line-against-dan-patricks-pet-insurance-bill/.The Texas Tribune is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans and engages with them about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues. The Texas Trial Lawyers Association has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune. For a full list of donors and sponsors, click here.
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Topics Lawsuits Carriers Legislation Texas Claims
Firefighters have more fully contained two large wildfires in West Texas, including one that destroyed four homes and prompted the evacuation of nearly 1,200 others.
Texas A&M Forest Service spokesman Phillip Truitt said March 1 that a fire in Swisher County is now 85 percent contained after burning about 2,200 acres and threatening the town of Tulia, about 50 miles south of Amarillo.
Truitt says two of the four homes destroyed in Tulia werent occupied and bulldozers saved 20 other residences.
He says a fire in Hockley County, west of Lubbock, also is 85 percent contained after burning about 8,500 acres and spreading near the town of Sundown.
A high fire danger remained in place Wednesday for parts of Texas, including the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Texas Wildfire
Authorities are investigating a miners death in McDowell County, W. Va., at an operation owned by Gov. Jim Justice.
Patrick Graham, vice president for Southern Coal Corp., says a worker at its Bishop Preparation plant near Squire died shortly before 10:30 p.m. Monday from injuries suffered in a fall.
He says the exact cause of the accident wasnt immediately known, and both the company and mine safety agencies are investigating.
The miners name wasnt immediately disclosed.
Gov. Jim Justice, who owns Southern Coal, issued a statement asking West Virginians to pray for the lost miner and his family.
The Justice administration says the new governor has established a trust to run his businesses while hes in office.
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Virginia Mining
The Florida insurance market has been a hotbed of controversy over the last year, and many are looking at the Florida State Legislature to alleviate some of the concerns coming from consumers, businesses and the industry itself.
From insurance fraud to workers compensation to the escalating assignment of benefits (AOB) issue, there is no shortage of insurance topics for lawmakers to discuss when the 2017 session begins March 7.
Some of the current proposals lawmakers will consider in the upcoming session include:
Workers Comp
Legislation addressing the tailspin of Floridas workers compensation market is considered a top priority, thanks to several 2016 decisions from the Florida Supreme Court.
The most significant was an April ruling that found the states workers comp attorney fees cap is unconstitutional. Rates went up 14.5 percent in response on Dec. 1, and that is just the tip of iceberg, experts say.
Florida will consider bills on the attorney fees cap and workers comp alternatives such as an opt-out system.
Insurance industry advocate group Property Casualty Insurance Association of America (PCI) said it is in favor of a bill proposed by the Associated Industries of Florida that proposes injured workers would be responsible for their own attorney fees and that judges could not award attorney fees that are to be paid by employers or insurance carriers.
We believe the proposal effectively addresses the constitutional issues identified by the courts in Castellanos v. Next Door Company and Miles v. City of Edgewater, said Logan McFaddin, PCIs Regional manager. In addition, the proposal would create new efficiencies for dispute resolution while restoring stability to the Florida workers compensation system.
The 12-page proposal would make several other changes to the workers comp system, including revising the criteria requiring the Office of the Judges of Compensation Claims to dismiss a petition for benefits and requiring the claimant or attorney to make a good faith effort to resolve a dispute before filing a petition.
AIF said that under this proposal employees are free to retain their own attorneys; The Workers Compensation Act will remain intact, expediting resolution of outstanding cases/issues to avoid a costly and prolonged litigation process; injured workers will be attended to by the appropriate medical providers quicker based on mandatory state oversight; unnecessary litigation will be avoided; and personal information of injured workers will not be publicized.
We believe that under this united business effort, this product will deal with the catastrophic threat head on that has been created by the current legal environment that is hurting the workers compensation system, which has worked since the 2003 reforms, said Tom Feeney, CEO of AIF and chair of its Florida Workers Compensation Strategic Task Force.
The bill was yet to be sponsored or officially filed as of March 2.
AOB
The industry is backing a bill (Senate Bill 1038) drafted by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation and sponsored by State Senators Dorothy Hukill and Kathleen Passsidomo to address the abuse of assignment of benefits in Florida, particularly related to water claims.
The bill defines the term assignment agreement and would prohibit certain awards of attorney fees to certain persons or entities in suits based on claims arising under property insurance policies.
The bill also stipulates that an assignment agreement will not be valid unless it meets the following conditions:
Agreement is in writing and is executed by all named insureds
Allows insureds to rescind the assignment agreement within seven business days without penalty
Requires the assignee to provide a copy of the assigned agreement to the insured no later than three business days after the agreement is executed
And includes a written, itemized, per-unit cost estimate of the work to be performed by the assignee.
Under provisions of the bill, consumers would be held harmless, assignment of benefits could still be utilized and incentives to file unnecessary litigation would be eliminated, said Florida Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier. We look forward to working with the Legislature this session on this important issue and are in full support of this bill.
Insurance Fraud
Florida CFO Jeff Atwater announced that he is working with State Sen. Jeff Brandes and Rep. Holly Raschien to tackle the ever-evolving issue of insurance fraud in Florida.
Several bills have been filed, including Senate Bill 1012, 1014, and House Bill 1007 and 1009.
Atwater said the goal is to further improve our processes and hone our techniques so that the Department of Financial Services can continue to stay a step ahead of the criminals who seek to defraud Floridians.
The legislation, if passed, would aim to reduce fraud through several measures, including: requiring insurers to designate primary anti-fraud employees; create an Insurance Fraud Dedicated Prosecutor Program; require insurers to adopt an anti-fraud plan; and require that anti-fraud plans and statistics be filed annually with the Florida Department of Financial Services.
This legislative change will strengthen our fight by more closely aligning our fraud investigators with those who work within these in-house fraud-fighting units. Well provide in-depth training on how to spot fraud to industry members, and they will provide important data about the fraud each company is facing specifically, Atwater said. By gathering better data, [DFS] will be armed with the information needed to make strategic staffing decisions that place resources where the hot beds for fraud are happening.
Other proposals related to the insurance industry include repealing the personal injury protection mandate and instead requiring bodily injury coverage; further revising provisions to encourage the states private flood insurance market; and reforming Floridas Hurricane Cat Fund to give insurers more choice between the Cat Fund and private market options for their insurance needs.
Topics Florida Legislation Workers' Compensation Fraud Market
Uber Technologies Inc.'s (UBER) explosive growth and constant controversy make it one of the most fascinating companies to emerge over the past decade. The global ride-sharing application, founded in 2009, disrupted modern transportation as we know it and at one point grew to become the highest-valued private startup company in the world.
Ten years after its founding, Uber went public on May 9, 2019. Though the road has been bumpy, Uber remains a major company in the ride-sharing space. In its most recent quarterly earnings release, for Q2 fiscal year (FY) 2021, Uber reported a net income of $1.1 billion, $3.9 billion in revenue, and 1.5 billion trips on its platform.
Key Takeaways The world's largest ride-sharing company, Uber Technologies, was founded in 2009 and quickly grew to become the world's most valuable startup.
Ubers disruptive technology, explosive growth, and constant involvement in controversy make it one of the most fascinating companies to emerge in recent years.
Uber's IPO was one of the most highly anticipated of the year, and the company was valued as high as $120 billion by Wall Street investors. The company went public on May 9, 2019, but fell flat: Uber made history with the biggest first-day dollar loss in U.S. history.
Since then, Uber has worked on becoming profitable and has completed some high-profile acquisitions of companies including JUMP, Postmates, and Drizly, as well as a partnership deal with Lime. It also sold its highly anticipated self-driving car division in 2020.
In 2017, Uber's corporate culture was outed for being highly hostile, sexist, and offensive, resulting in a company-wide investigation. CEO Travis Kalanick was forced to resign, along with more than 20 employees.
Uber History: Paris and Rapid Growth
Ubers story began in Paris in 2008. Two friends, Travis Kalanick and Garrett Camp, were attending LeWeb, an annual tech conference The Economist describes as where revolutionaries gather to plot the future." In 2007, both men had sold startups they co-founded for large sums. Kalanick sold Red Swoosh to Akamai Technologies for $19 million while Camp sold StumbleUpon to eBay (EBAY) for $75 million.
The concept for Uber was born one winter night during the conference when the pair was unable to get a cab. Uber was founded on a single idea: "What if you could request a ride from your phone?" Initially, the idea was for a timeshare limo service that could be ordered via an app. After the conference, the entrepreneurs went their separate ways. However, when Camp returned to San Francisco, he continued to be fixated on the idea and bought the domain name UberCab.com.
UberCab: The Beginning
In 2009, Camp was still CEO of StumbleUpon, but he began working on a prototype for UberCab as a side project. By summer of that year, Camp had persuaded Kalanick to join as UberCabs "chief incubator." The service was tested in New York in early 2010 using only three cars, and the official launch took place in San Francisco in May.
Ryan Graves, who was Uber's general manager and an important figure in the early stages of the company, became CEO of Uber in early 2010. In December 2010, Kalanick took over as CEO, while Graves took on the title of general manager and senior vice president of Global Operations.
The ease and simplicity of ordering a car fueled the apps rising popularity. With the tap of a button, a ride could be ordered, a GPS identified the location, and the cost was automatically charged to the card on the user account. The San Francisco-based startup quickly became one of the hottest companies and grew quickly. The first Uber ride was requested in 2010 and less than two years later, in 2011, Uber had already launched internationally in Paris, where the idea for it first took root.
Uber's Valuation: Funding Rounds
First five years: 2009 to 2013
After starting in 2009 and launching its first ride in 2010, the company received its first major funding, a $1.25 million round led by First Round Capital. 2011 was a crucial year for Ubers growth. Early in the year, the company raised an $11 million Series A funding round led by Benchmark, and it went on to expand to New York, Seattle, Boston, Chicago, and Washington D.C., as well as abroad in Paris.
In December at the 2011 LeWeb conference, Kalanick announced that Uber raised $37 million in Series B funding from Menlo Ventures, Jeff Bezos, and Goldman Sachs. In 2012, the company broadened its offering by launching UberX, which provided a less expensive hybrid car as an alternative to black car service.
Additional funding and setbacks: 2014 to present
In July 2015, Uber became the most valuable startup in the world, valued at $51 billion after its funding rounds. In June 2016, Uber then raised a further $3.5 billion from Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund.
With Uber's rapid growth came many controversies. In April 2017, Uber opened up about its finances for the first time to Bloomberg and reported a global loss of $3.8 billion for 2016. This included losses from its China business, which it sold in the summer of 2016without it, net adjusted losses were $2.8 billion.
By the following year, the firm's valuation had been knocked down from a lofty $68 billion to $48 billion. In 2018, Japanese conglomerate SoftBank Group, along with a group of investors including Dragoneer Investment Group, successfully bid for 20% of Uber's stock at this lower valuation, a 30% discount on the last valuation figure. The deal reportedly gave SoftBank 15% in the ride-share company while Uber got a powerful ally in Asia that could help turn the tide for the company after a few very public missteps. The remaining shares reportedly went to other investors in the group.
This period was also marked by other challenges, including the fatal crash of a self-driving vehicle from Uber's fleet. Additionally, on Aug. 8, 2018, New York City Council voted to put a pause on new licenses issued to ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft.
Uber IPO: Disappointing Feat
Uber's IPO made history as the biggest first-day dollar loss in IPO history in the United States. At one point, Uber was valued at $120 billion by Wall Street analysts, which would have made it the largest company ever to debut on the stock market. After its IPO, it was only valued at about $69 billionjust over half of its high-hopes IPO.
$85.314 billion Uber's current market capitalization, as of September 2021
Uber Culture Controversy: Kalanick Out, Khosrowshahi In
2017 was a rough year for Uber. The troubles began in February when a former female Uber engineer outed the company for its sexist culture in a 3,000-word blog post. It was alleged that Uber's corporate culture was highly hostile, sexist, and quite offensive to most people.
The post quickly went viral and a number of high-level employees were let go or resigned for reasons relating to the allegations in the following months. Following the blog post, the board called for an internal investigation, which became known as the "Holder Investigation" (it was lead by former Attorney General Eric Holder). The investigation resulted in 47 recommendations intended to improve the culture and work environment, and according to Uber, the firing of more than 20 staff members.
In the following months, scandals seemed to haunt both the company and its CEO. Letters were released to the press which confirmed that sexist attitudes came from the top downincluding from Kalanick himself. Kalanick was also caught on video arguing with an Uber driver about lowering fares, which did not strengthen his image in the public eye.
On June 21, 2017, Kalanick resigned after a shareholder revolt. After a little more than two months, it was announced that Dara Khosrowshahithen-CEO of Expedia (EXPE)would take over. Khosrowshahi came to New York in 1978 with his parents to escape the Iranian revolution. He started his career in finance at an investment bank and eventually became the CFO of IAC/InterActiveCorp (IAC), a position he held for seven years before becoming the CEO of Expedia.
As of Sept. 3, 2021, Dara Khosrowshahi remains the CEO of Uber.
Uber's History of Legal and Policy Challenges
During its expansion, Uber has met fierce resistance from the taxi industry and government regulators. As part of its strategy to mitigate the opposition, the company hired David Plouffe, a high-profile political and corporate strategist who worked on Obama's 2008 presidential campaign. Here, we chronicle some high-profile moments of Uber's challenges.
Surge pricing backlash
Uber uses an automated algorithm to increase prices based on supply and demand in the market. On New Year's Eve 2011, prices soared to as much as seven times standard rates, fueling negative feedback from users. Surge pricing triggered outrage again during a snowstorm in New York in December 2013. More recently, Uber committed to capping surge pricing during several blizzards in New York City.
In 2014, taxi drivers in London, Berlin, Paris, and Madrid staged a large-scale protest against Uber. Taxi companies have claimed that because Uber avoids their expensive license fees and bypasses local laws, it creates unfair competition. The case was heard by Europe's top court in November 2016. Uber lost its license to operate in London, where the company had 40,000 registered drivers in September 2017. On June 26, 2018, a London judge overturned the ban, effectively allowing Uber to operate under a 15-month license along with conditions. In September 2020, Uber was granted a new license to operate in London. The current license lasts for 18 months and is conditional on Uber providing periodic safety reports.
Fair pay and driver benefits
In New York, it became known that Uber had mistakenly charged drivers commission based on pretax earnings as opposed to after-tax earningsat a cost of tens of millions of dollars to New York drivers. The company said it was an accounting error, and that it was committed to paying its drivers back in full as quickly as possible.
The issue does raise questions about the fairness of who ends up paying the taxes. Driver advocacy groups have argued for some time that Uber is avoiding a tax at the expense of its drivers, something The New York Times found evidence to support. The paper estimated it could have cost drivers hundreds of millions of dollars.
On June 13, 2017, a New York judge ruled that Uber drivers should be considered employees as opposed to independent contractors at least in certain cases. This decision opens up for drivers to receive employee benefits, which would likely have a significant impact on the bottom line. Later, restrictions on licenses by the New York City Council were introduced, which represented a blow for Uber and meant a pause on any new licenses for the ride-sharing service in the city for a 12-month period.
Meanwhile, California passed Proposition 22 during its November 2020 election, allowing companies like Uber to classify their workers as independent contractors in the gig economy, and not as full-time employees. The Uber-backed ballot measure is now the costliest in California history, with over $200 million spent in campaigning for it.
On Aug. 20, 2021, Alameda County Superior Court Judge Frank Roesch ruled that two sections of Proposition 22 were unconstitutional and that the measure as a whole was unenforceable. However, it remains in effect while its proponents appeal his ruling.
Settlement on claims of discrimination, harassment, and hostile work environment
In 2018, Uber paid approximately $7 million to more than 480 current and former employees to settle a 2017 lawsuit alleging gender discrimination, harassment, and a hostile work environment. The lawsuit claimed that Uber used a discriminatory ranking system that undervalued female employees and employees of color.
Discrimination against a blind customer
An arbitrator ordered Uber in April 2021 to pay $1.1 million to Lisa Irving, a blind customer. The arbitrator ruled that Uber's drivers had discriminated against Irving by denying her rides or verbally abusing her more than a dozen times. Uber had argued that it was not responsible for the drivers' actions because of their independent contractor status.
Uber vs. Lyft Competition
Competition has been ferocious between Uber and its closest rival, Lyft. In 2014, both Uber and Lyft claimed that drivers and employees engaged in sabotage by regularly hailing and canceling rides on each others services. Kalanick also openly admitted to trying to undermine Lyfts fundraising efforts in a Vanity Fair article.
Uber's Acquisitions and Business Units
Uber Eats, UberPool, and credit card
Uber has a merchant delivery program for food deliveries called Uber Eats. Uber previously offered a service named UberPool, which allowed drivers to pick up multiple riders on one scheduled ride, making it a cheaper option compared to UberX and Uber Black. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the service has been temporarily suspended in many regions, including the U.S. and Canada. Uber has been testing a new ride-pooling service in Africa under the name Pool Chance. Uber said that this service is similar to UberPool but not identical. In 2017, the company, in partnership with Barclays, also rolled out a co-branded rewards credit card in the U.S.
Lime
On July 9, 2018, Uber announced it would be investing in the electric scooter rental company, Lime, in collaboration with Alphabet Inc.'s GV (GOOG). Lime's lightweight scooters are available for rent all over a number of major cities, and customers leave them on the sidewalk for the next rider, making for a convenient and clean-energy-based business model.
The deal is part of a $335 million investment round, and the business is valued at $1.1 billion. Uber promotes Lime through its app and also provides a separate Lime app that customers can use to locate a scooter. Uber made similar efforts with bike-share startup JUMP before acquiring the business for reportedly close to $200 million in April 2018.
Postmates
Another high-profile acquisition occurred in July 2020, when Uber announced that it was acquiring food delivery app Postmates for $2.65 billion in an all-stock deal. As the food delivery business continued to grow, the acquisition (along with the creation of Uber Eats) was a strategic one in order to offset losses from the ride-sharing portion of the business, which has been struggling, especially during the pandemic. After the Postmates acquisition, Uber's stock hit an all-time high.
Uber self-driving cars
Like Google, Apple Inc. (AAPL), and Tesla Inc. (TSLA), Uber is also a front-runner in the future of driverless cars. However, the road has been bumpy, starting with Alphabet Inc.'s Waymo suing Uber in 2018 for theft of its self-driving technology.
Uber hit perhaps its worst snag yet in March 2018, when a self-driving car fatally struck a pedestrian, causing the company to temporarily suspend all testing. In May 2018, Uber announced that it would halt its Arizona testing program and go elsewhere. In July 2018, Uber's self-driving cars made their return in Pittsburgh, but business lagged.
In December 2020, it was announced that Uber would sell its autonomous vehicle business to Aurora, a startup in San Francisco that was started by the former head engineer of Waymo. Uber had invested more than $1 billion in the business at the time of the sale.
The Bottom Line
Uber is one of the most closely followed companies in the world, once going down in history as once the world's most valuable startup and disrupting the modern ride-sharing and transportation industry as we know it. Though the COVID-19 pandemic has thrown a wrench into Uber's plans to become profitable, marking large losses in its ride-hailing business, the company's strategic investments in its food delivery arm Uber Eats as well as its recent California Proposition 22 win bode well for the company. Perhaps soon, time will tell if Khosrowshahi can lift Uber's valuation to its originally projected $120 billion.
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The University Of California Fires Their Entire IT Team To Save $30M. In the midst of Donald Trump drove against movement and hostile to outsourcing talk, a news about a straightforward outsourcing venture in the US has activated phenomenal backfire and mayhem among local people.
US citizens are angry that their jobs are being outsourced to India, and Indian H1-B visa holders are being asked to do their jobs, thereby bringing in unemployment for them.
Situated in San Francisco, University of California has chosen to flame their whole IT division and outsource the employments to HCL in India.
Around 79 workers from the IT Department, has been given pink slips, out of which 49 were lasting representatives.
In spite of the fact that this is a little outsourcing venture, however, the matter has gotten steam since the University of California is a state funded college, and keeps running on citizens cash.
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The Mekong River Basin is one of the most contested rivers in the world as six countries with unequal political power and differing degrees of social, scientific, and institutional capacity have been implementing projects with inadequate regard for their neighboring states development plans.
Until recently, the 1995 Mekong River Agreement, created to promote cooperation and coordinate development in the basin, was relatively successful at guiding the member states toward common goals. But now, weaknesses in the Agreement have been exposed as cumulative hydropower and other developments have reach a critical stage. China, the main engine for regional economic growth, has also been a role model for unilateral hydropower development on the Mekong. Laos is constructing the first two of multiple dams planned for the mainstream Mekong, despite concerns over projected losses of wild-capture fisheries that millions of rural poor in the Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) depend upon. Vietnam and Cambodia, while protesting Laos dams, are also investing in their own Mekong projects. In December 2016, Thailand expects to release plans for a huge water diversion from the Mekong that would remove enough water to irrigate 5 million hectares of farmland (Thu, 2016).
Hovering over all these projects is climate change. In spring 2016, the Mekong experienced the worst drought in some 90 years; this event may portend a glimpse of future extreme events as virtually all regional climate models project increasing impacts into the coming decades.
While the Mekong Agreement was never designed to be an international treaty to guide the sharing of transboundary resources, it is clear that tipping points around the Mekongs hydrological and social systems are now close at hand. It is also apparent that, despite its importance as a shared transboundary river basin where water and other resources are fundamental to the ecological, economic, and political stability of all the Mekong states, they are still searching for a way forward.
Environmental security may offer answers to the transboundary common pool resource dilemmas of Mekong River states.
Since the 1990s, driven by environmental and economic change in an increasingly interdependent world, an environmental security framework linking national security with resource scarcity has become more influential. Security is no longer just about maintaining state borders through military means; it now includes non-traditional components such as managing ecological degradation, maintaining energy and water security, and aiding human adaptation to climate change (Grumbine, 2014). Major goals of environmental security are to maintain the critical ecosystem services that people depend upon, reduce the ecological and social risks from new water, food and energy developments, and support humans capacity to adapt to change in the uncertain world of the 21st century. Environmental security goals become all the more important when shared natural and social resources create degrees of dependency across state borders. This is exactly the state of affairs in the Mekong.
But environmental security in the Mekong is not just about hydrology, hydropower, and hydropolitics. There are six drivers of change ecosystem degradation, food, energy, and water issues, human development, and climate change that have to be cooperatively managed.
Ecological Degradation
Biodiversity and ecosystem functions across Mekong ecosystems are under growing pressure. From 1973-2009, forest cover in the region (excluding China) was reduced by about 30 percent. A primary cause in every country is the broad land-use transition away from smallholder, swidden-based agriculture to commercial cash crops. For freshwater ecosystems, plans to build many more dams on both the mainstream and tributaries of the Mekong yield a poor prognosis for aquatic and floodplain health.
Food
Given that the Mekong accounts for about 13 percent of the worlds wild-capture fisheries with tens of millions of people dependent to some degree on this resource, the key driver of food insecurity is dam development. If all mainstream dams are constructed, Mekong fisheries are projected to decrease by 27-44 percent (Ward and Smagjl, 2013).
Energy
Energy demand is projected to increase dramatically for all Mekong countries. Demand in Thailand is projected to double by 2030, while demand in Vietnam may triple (Middleton and Dore, 2015). Today, Thailand uses natural gas for about 70 percent of its electricity, but domestic supplies of this fuel may be exhausted by 2020. Laos remains committed to building over 100 hydropower projects. China is often blamed for downstream impacts due to its many Mekong dams, yet there are complex energy export and investment links between all Mekong states.
Water
Water security in the Mekong is paramount. Major issues are: impacts of hydropower development on riverine hydrology; effects of dams on local peoples livelihoods; and lack of integrated analysis of cost/benefit tradeoffs within and between countries. If all of the proposed dams are built, projections show a 96 percent loss in sediment load in the Mekong Delta (Kondolf et al., 2014) with serious impacts on downstream fish and food production. And by 2050, agricultural demand for water may reach 32-50 percent of the Mekongs total flow, creating competition with fisheries livelihoods and hydropower operations.
Human Development
Over the next decade, the human population in the five Mekong basin countries (excluding China) is projected to increase by 23.6 million with most of this growth in cities. However, except for Thailand and China, the Mekong countries rank low in their capacity to manage change. The Asian Development Bank has funded roads, railways, and pipelines across the Mekong to stimulate economic growth. But these efforts have been poorly coordinated with environmental and social planning.
Climate Change
Climate projections show mean temperature increases over 20C by 2050 for the Mekong region (Zomer et al., 2016). River flows will likely increase at least to midcentury, but runoff may interact with the greater likelihood of extreme events (i.e. flooding). Due to the high risk of sea level rise and salinization, the Mekong Delta is of particular concern as it is so important for global rice production.
Of course, there are many links between these six drivers of change. But one thing is certain as was made clear in spring 2016 due to drought across the region, change is already causing alterations to the clean air, water, and hydrological and nutrient cycles that people in the Mekong depend on.
Much can be done by the countries in the Mekong to strengthen environmental security. Here are some promising management strategies keyed to each stressor mentioned above.
To reverse ecosystem degradation, more transboundary environmental impact assessment would establish a strong basis to improve regional ecosystem conditions. Given the Mekong nations commitment to economic development, various payments for ecosystem services schemes are obvious candidates for reducing loss of ecosystem functioning.
With demand growing and farmers shifting from subsistence to cash crops, increasing food security in the Mekong means using less water to produce more food. More emphasis should be placed on local water storage, not just large-scale plans to divert Mekong water for irrigation schemes. Projections of dam impacts leading to reduced food security must be explicitly factored in to policy decisions. And policy coordination between the food and water sectors needs to be improved throughout the region.
The dynamism in demand forecasts and supply options create great uncertainty in energy management. Some scenarios show that by 2025, 25 percent of Mekong energy could come from renewables. Meanwhile, the Greater Mekong Subregion program seeks to build traditional electricity grids spanning the region. New energy from hydropower development will require coordinated dam operations among and between countries but this cannot occur without more collaborative planning.
Because transboundary water resources are key to environmental security in the Mekong, there are abundant ideas about more cooperative ways to manage waters. All observers emphasize greater sharing of flow data and dam building/operations. New efforts are exploring how to allow sediments behind Mekong dams to pass on downstream. There is a Hydropower By Design planning framework being tested in Myanmar that holds great promise for public-private management.
Low development capacity and closed systems of governance make progress difficult in strengthening the human elements of environmental security in the Mekong. But security is about managing, not eliminating change. Recent studies show how China can better manage the costs and benefits of hydropower to support human livelihoods (Tilt and Gerkey, 2016). Links between improved land-use planning and reduced human livelihood vulnerability have been mapped in Laos and Myanmar. To manage urban human security, research from Vietnam has established ways to couple city planning with flood control measures. Many innovative practices to manage the social elements of environmental security are beginning to be tested in the Mekong.
To build climate change resilience, the Mekong states need to increase their capacity to do integrated planning. Studies from Thailand and Vietnam show that local governments can support peoples climate adaptations through building farmers technical capacity, subsidizing credit, and linking products with market demand. However, in the Mekong, solutions to climate issues are often less a matter of technical capacity and more an issue of governance choices and political will.
The problem-solving power of an environmental security framework threads together human and ecological issues to showcase the importance of coordinated action across multiple sectors. Environmental security focuses on managing ecosystem, political, economic, and social risks that can undermine state stability in the face of change. This may better capture the attention of regional governments intent on maintaining power. Other planning frameworks such as Integrated River Basin Management do not consider politics. Environmental security also situates the shifts that are occurring in the Mekongs natural and human resources within the shared economic growth and development goals of the transboundary neighbors. But environmental security is not a panacea and remains untested in the Mekong. And governance barriers in the region continue to act as strong constraints on transboundary cooperation.
References
Grumbine, R.E. (2014). Assessing environmental security in China. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, 12, 403-411.
Kondolf, G.M., Rubin, Z.K., and Minear, J.T. (2014). Dams on the Mekong: Cumulative sediment starvation. Water Resources Research, 506), 5158-5169.
Middleton, C., and Dore, J. (2015). Transboundary water and electricity governance in mainland Southeast Asia. International Journal of Water Governance, 3, 93-120.
Thu, S. (2016). Mekong basin stirs up region: Thai water diversion project could have mega risks. Mekongeye. Retrieved from http://www.mekongeye.com/2016/07/08/mekong-basin-stirs-up-region-thai-water-diversion-project-could-have-mega-risks/
Tilt, B., and Gerkey, D. (2016). Dams and population displacement on Chinas Upper Mekong River: Implications for social capital and social-ecological resilience. Global Environmental Change, 36, 153-162.
Ward, J., and Smajgl, A. (eds.) (2013). The Water-Food-Energy Nexus in the Mekong Region: Assessing Development Strategies Considering Cross-Sectoral and Transboundary Impacts. New York, Heidelberg, Dordrecht, and London: Springer.
Zomer, R.J., Trabucco, A., Wang, M. C., and Xu, J.C. (2016). Projected climate change impact on hydrology, bioclimatic conditions, and terrestriale in the Asian Highlands. ICRAF Working Paper 222, World Agroforestry Centre East and Central Asia, Kunming, China. doi:10.5716/WP16006.PDF
The annual Chinese Lianghui of 2016, or plenary meetings of China's top legislative and consultative organs, the National People's Congress (NPC) and the National People's Consultative Conference (CPPCC), was convened on March 3, 2016. This annual session is significant for the observation of Chinas political, economic and social trends.
Of late, Chinas politics and economy has sent out confusing and alarming signals. In particular, there have been heated discussions on Chinas ideological direction and considerable economic slowdown. While the annual NPC and CPPCC meetings are still ongoing, IPP Review has interviewed Professor Yongnian Zheng, Director of East Asian Institute at the National University of Singapore, to address questions related to the meetings.
IPP Review: The annual Chinese Lianghui of 2016 has begun. In your opinion, what could be the highlights of the 2016 Lianghui and what are the immediate tasks of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) this time round?
The annual NPC and CPPCC meetings of 2016 are important. It has been four years since Xi Jinping came to power. These meetings are politically significant and important to the CCP because the 19th Party Congress will be held next year. In addition, the 13th Five-Year Plan has been approved by the 18th CCP Central Committee in the Fifth Plenary Session in 2015.
According to Chinas political procedure, the Fifth Plenary Session in 2015 has decided the themes to be discussed in the 2016 Lianghui. The CCP set out its planning and vision in the Fifth Plenary Session and through the NPC and CPPCC in 2016, it will transform the partys planning into the states planning. Lianghui in the Chinese context is a state affair, not a party affair. Some Western scholars have reckoned Lianghui as a rubber stamp legislature to carry out pre-ordained decisions by the CCP. That is not really the case. While a lot has been discussed during the 2015 Fifth Plenary Session, the NPC and CPPCC involve the participation of different social groups. As such, the discussion base of Lianghui is much larger than the 2015 Fifth Plenary Session even though both have a consistent theme. In that sense, Lianghui is important.
The purpose of Lianghui is to discuss Chinas social and economic issues. That is why people regard Lianghui as the platform of the Chinese Premier, and the National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party as the platform of the Chinese President who is concurrently the General Secretary of the CCP Central Committee.
There are a number of important issues to be discussed in the Lianghui of 2016. First, the building of a moderately prosperous society or what China calls xiaokang society had been proposed last year. The 13th Five-Year Plan has defined clearly the concept of a moderately prosperous society, which is to increase Chinas per capita GDP from US$7,800 today to US$12,000 by 2020. In order to achieve this goal, annual GDP expansion should be no less than 6.5 percent in 2016-2020.
The second task proposed in the 13th Five-Year Plan is to reduce poverty. Despite being the worlds second largest economy today, China has around 70 million and 10 million people living below the poverty line of US$1 in its rural and urban areas. If we calculate according to the international standard, China has 300 million people living under the poverty line (below US$1.25). According to the 13th Five-Year Plan, China aims to lift 10 million people out of poverty every year from 2016 to 2020, achieving the 2020 poverty relief target.
These two goals are mapped out under the pressure of fulfilling the two centenary goals. The first centenary goal marks the 100th anniversary of the CCP's founding in 1921, while the second centenary goal commemorates the 100th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. The first centenary goal to complete the building of a moderately prosperous society is an immediate task for Xi Jinping during his reign. It could be critical for both China and Xis personal standing in the Chinese history. Xi is under pressure to realize the first centenary goal and so has made it a planned and must-be accomplished task.
Moreover, China is facing an economic slowdown. I recalled that before the 18th Party Congress, people had spent almost two years discussing the possibility of China falling into the dreaded middle income trap. Recently, due to economic downward pressure, people have started to discuss this topic again. It will be troublesome if China falls into the middle income trap. Take East Asian economies for example, Japan and Asias Four Little Dragons successfully avoided falling into the middle income trap and become high-income economies. On the other hand, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and others failed to escape the middle-income trap and experienced stagnation in terms of per capita GDP. Empirically speaking, a society that successfully avoids falling into the middle-income trap and attains sustainable economic growth is one that is able to establish a clean government and an open society. However, once it slips into the middle-income trap, problems such as corruption, social instability, and environmental problem will surface.
China is currently facing substantial downward economic pressures. The 2015 financial market turmoil triggered by the stock market crash was due to failed financial market reforms. Of late, the unprecedented Chinese housing boom has also caused fear among many Chinese people. The middle income trap, poverty, and the financial crisis are the aspects which concern the people the most and would have to be discussed in the Lianghui.
IPP Review: What are your view on the anti-corruption campaign and Xis initiative on building the rule of law?
The anti-corruption campaign is significant for Chinese politics and the economy since the widespread corruption undermines the legitimacy of the CCP. However, the peoples perceptions of the campaign have changed. While people seemed to be supportive of the anti-corruption campaign at the beginning, they might start questioning what they have gained from it. The large-scale anti-corruption campaign has caused bureaucrats to become paranoid and inactive, resulting in inefficiency of the government sector, causing inconvenience to the general public. Businessmen are also wary of the political situation and face difficulties doing business in China. As a result, the popularity of the anti-corruption campaign is starting to dwindle away.
Also, in the West, criticism and concerns have abounded as China has been perceived to have cracked down on human rights lawyers and NGOs. Ultimately, can the anti-corruption campaign and crackdowns lead to the building of the rule of law which has been emphasized since the Fourth Plenary Session two years ago? What kind of institution is the party intending to construct? That is what concerns Chinese people the most. The party should try to address these concerns.
IPP Review: China revealed on Friday, March 5, 2016, that its military spending will grow by 7.6 percent in 2016, the smallest increase in six years and a lower figure than many experts had expected due to a slowing economy How do you anticipate the direction of Chinas foreign policy?
During Dengs era, China embraced the keep a low profile policy and maintained its military spending at a lower rate. As China emerges as a world economy, it has experienced rapid military modernization with an increasingly larger military budget. This is in particular with regard to Xis extensive military reforms proposed last year and people are starting to question if the military budget will increase along with the military reforms. Apart from that, militarization in the South China Sea has been a contentious issue especially between the United States and China. It is likely that people will associate the increase in Chinas military budget with military conflict in the South China Sea.
The 7.6 percentage growth is the lowest in six years. In my opinion, the increase of military spending on certain aspect would be inevitable. As a country evolves to become economically strong, it is inevitable that it will push forward its national defence and military modernization. The problem is whether Chinas military modernization will lead to imperialism and aggression as deemed by the West. While some have exaggerated Chinas military modernization, others believe that it is mainly for Chinas self-defence and deterrent purposes, not for offensive purposes. The proportional growth of Chinas military spending is much less than the US absolute spending amount on military defence.
Some in the West have perceived Chinas actions in the East China Sea and South China Sea as aggressive. However, from Chinas perspective, it is a defensive and reactive response. We should view this objectively. China is being reactive in both the East China Sea and South China Sea issues. For example, it was the Japanese government which attempted to nationalize the Diaoyu/Senkaku Island that caused a stir in the East China Sea. China was merely reacting to Japans action in the East China Sea. In term of the criticism on Chinas construction and reclamation of islands in the South China Sea, both Vietnam and Philippines have long constructed islands in the South China Sea. Indeed, China can be viewed as a late-comer to the construction of islands in these contested waterways. However, due to Chinas state capacity, China is able to complete the building of islands at a larger scale and within a shorter time as compared to the other claimant countries. This has drawn strong international criticism.
The US is aware of this situation but it has reprimanded China for being a bully of small nations in the South China Sea. China on the other hand would argue that while a big country is not supposed to bully small nations, small nations should not be challenging big countries at will either.
The Chinese government is facing a dilemma between rationalism and nationalism. Xi Jinping, in my opinion, is more of a rationalist. On one hand, he covets a new type of major power relations with the US to avoid falling into the Thucydides trap and unnecessary conflict. On the other hand, he needs to tackle rising domestic nationalism. He has to strike a balance between rationalism and nationalism. If he does not respond to the East China Sea or South China Sea issues, he will face rising tension from the domestic front. However, overreaction to the issues will deteriorate relations between China and the US. Overall, Xi is able to maintain an equilibrium between the two. Chinas and the US concerns over the South China Sea are not necessarily in conflict. What the US is concerned with the most is freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. Similarly, freedom of navigation is the biggest national interest of China. In fact, the South China Sea is far more important to China than to the US. More than 85 percent of Chinas trade goes through the South China Sea, and so if anything happens to the South China Sea, it is likely that it will affect Chinas entire national economy. Thus, China and the US have a common interest in term of freedom of navigation.
The Chinese government is facing a dilemma between rationalism and nationalism. Overall, Xi is able to maintain an equilibrium between the two.
While China has promised to safeguard freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, the issue of asymmetric power between big country and small nations remains unsolved. The US might side with the Philippines and Vietnam, but both could have different takes on the South China Sea issue. Small nations like the ASEAN countries would like to establish an amicable relationship with China. The joint statement of the 2016 ASEAN-US Summit did not include Washingtons assertive pursuit of territory in the South China Sea. Many of Chinas neighboring countries prefer not have a confrontational relationship with China. China too, despite reclaiming land and constructing islands in the South China Sea, does not intend to turn hostile to the ASEAN countries.
For instance, amid growing political tensions between China and the Philippines, economic and trade development between the two countries has been vigorous. This is similar to Vietnam, where both countries have resorted to party-to-party (i.e. between their two communist parties) relations to stabilize their bilateral relations. Basically, we can see efforts from both sides in thawing political relations. China is hoping that the incoming President of the Philippines can help improve their bilateral relations too. All three countriesChina, Vietnam, and the Philippinesare looking for opportunities to normalize their political relations.
It is impossible for China as a rising power to give up the South China Sea. It is likely that this issue will have to be resolved through negotiation. In my opinion, China, the US and the ASEAN claimant countries have restrained themselves in the South China Sea dispute, and so overall it should not be a big problem. In view of Chinas slowing economy, China will continue to regard maintaining a peaceful international environment as its top priority.
Furthermore, there is a lot of common ground between China and the US, for instance, in tackling the issue of North Korea. China has also been cooperating with the US and other major powers to address the issue of Iran. Overall, Chinas foreign policy will not be confrontational and it will focus on promoting stability.
IPP Review: What are the major challenges that are currently faced by Xi Jinping and Li Keqiang? Just last month, Chinas cyberspace watchdog closed the microblog account of a former property tycoon, Ren Zhiqiang. The West and other critics regard this as Chinas attempt to impose ideological control and enforce party loyalty. What is your opinion on this issue?
China today is very different from the China of Dengs era. Today, Chinas society is pluralistic and overflowing with a myriad of social ideologies. One can find any -ismi.e. liberalism, democratism, nationalism, Maoism, Marxismin Chinese society today. This has beset the CCP under the leadership of Xi.
It is a pity that the CCP has yet to develop its own ideology after so many years. The official ideology, Marxism, has seen a decline in popularity and people are losing faith in it. In order for the CCP to achieve sustainable development, two conditions need to be fulfilledan effective organizational system and an effective ideology. For many years, the CCP has made progress in reforming its organization/system, but encountered problems in producing an effective ideology. After the 18th Party Congress, Xi has taken action in party reform, including the large-scale anti-corruption campaign and the tightening of party discipline and rules. But the CCP still does not have an effective ideology.
In the ideological front, the party has become an opportunist since Deng adopted the ideology of pragmatism. Different ideologies have been adopted to cater to the partys interests. As Xi tries to call for ideological control, he is facing big challenges. Traditional Marxism is no longer in good standing. With globalization, it is harder to control the flow and influx of ideologies. Even if the CCP is able to carry out ideological control, it is difficult to remake a unique ideology of its own. The new ideology remains an unknown even to the CCP. This is the first challenge that the CCP is encountering.
The second challenge is the slowing of Chinas economy. Despite huge efforts made in the past, China has not fully adjusted to its structural reform, to transform from an investment and export driven economy to a consumer-driven economy. Domestic consumption is not rising as fast as we have expected. Instead, Chinese people are spending extravagantly overseas (Japan, Europe, etc.) for quality products, boosting external consumption.
After China has weaned itself off the investment-driven growth model, what should be the new sources of economic growth? If China cannot achieve the 6.5 percent growth target, it will not become a moderately prosperous society by 2020. Chinas large scale infrastructure building and housing boom in the past have resulted in severe overcapacity. In order to achieve 6.5 percent growth, a number of reform plans have been unveiled, including supply-side reform to reduce overcapacity. The main problems lie in how China combats with its overcapacity. For example, the city of Shenyang is unveiling an unorthodox plan to ease its property glut to expand its pool of home buyers by removing the down payment requirement for fresh college graduates. Such policies are risky and people are starting to worry if they could lead to a sub-prime mortgage crisis. China is also trying to export its excess capital through the One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative. However, the OBOR initiative is facing a lot of impediments. Chinas attempt to export its excess capital to developing countries for massive and vital infrastructure building is regarded as politically sensitive. Myanmar, Sri Lanka and other countries have raised concerns about national security and have choked off a few Chinese mega projects. The absence of rule of law in these countries could lead to bumpy OBOR projects with hidden political risks awaiting China. Hence, it is questionable whether the OBOR initiative is able to fully digest Chinas excess capacity.
In fact, there is room for absorption of overcapacity in the domestic market. As Xi has proposed to turn China from a quantity economy to a quality economy, China should focus on industrial upgrading and technological innovation. The recent Chinese spending craze in Japan has seen Chinese consumers purchasing Japanese electric rice-cookers, smart-toilets, and medical products in bulk. In order to boost domestic consumption, China should push ahead with technological advancement and industrial upgrading, to make progress in product innovation, so as to cater to the consumption patterns of local Chinese.
Second, a new wave of investment can help resuscitate the economy, and we should not ignore the importance of investment. While the stimulus plan to inject RMB 4 trillion into the economy in 2008 has distorted the Chinese economy, investment will continue to be an important source for growth. There is still room for investment in China. For example, urban redevelopment, sewage management, car-park buildings and environmental protection projects are all in need of capital. Most importantly, China should encourage what I called social investment. The concept of social investment has not been deployed. China categorized social security, medical welfare, public housing, etc. as consumption, but this should be regarded as social investment. The construction of hospitals, elderly care centers, kindergartens, and parking lots alone should be able to digest a large proportion of Chinas overcapacity. Unlike the nation-wide stimulus package introduced in 2008, China should place emphasis on the second and third tier cities for better infrastructure building. By allowing local governments to come up with their own stimulus packages, of course this should be under the supervision of the central government, there is ample room for Chinas social investment.
Third, an inactive bureaucracy has exacerbated the slowdown of Chinas economy. Four actorsthe state, local government, the private sector, and foreign capitalhave played instrumental roles in driving Chinas economy in the past. The anti-corruption drive and centralization program have caused local government and the public sector to become inactive; the private and foreign sectors have also been affected by the rise of left-wing ideology. Without the practice of rule of law, ideological change has become the most important factor for entrepreneurs to judge the stability of Chinese politics. The rise of Maoism has caused an outflow of capital especially private and foreign capital.
Politically, China is in the post strongman age, and thus should reduce populism. Populism may be a legacy of the strong statesmen of the past, but it will not be effective in solving problems. Instead, the Chinese leadership should pay attention to motivating the bureaucracy, as populism will only scare domestic and foreign investors off.
Foreign policy is the third challenge for the CCP. Domestically, the CCP should restrain populism; externally, it should restrain nationalism. As a big power, nationalism is somehow inevitable. Chinese nationalism is however not a state mobilized nationalism as deemed by the West. The major source of Chinese nationalism today is due to the economic rise of China. While excessive nationalism on the international platform could generate negative impact, a stable external environment is crucial for China as it still has a long way to go with its current per capita GDP at US$7,800. Moreover, China is now part of the global economy, and any changes on its domestic front could easily affect the external environment and vice-versa. Hence, the Chinese leadership should take into consideration both internal and external developments.
IPP Review: After the 2008 global financial crisis, China made great contributions to the world economy. Today, with its economic slowdown, will China be able to continue to do so?
Chinas contribution to the world economy has been significant. In the 80s and 90s, Chinas efforts in reducing poverty contributed positively to the world economy. In the following years, Chinas participation in the WTO generated positive impacts on the world economy. After 2008, due to the financial crisis in the West, China introduced a RMB 4 trillion stimulus package to bolster economic expansion and sustain global growth. In that sense, China should continue to contribute to the world economy. Among all, Chinas stable economic development itself is an important contribution. Second, the internationalization of the RMB, financial reform, and increasing the transparency of financial institutions, will help to bridge the gap between China and the rest of the world. Third, OBOR and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) can introduce new economic dynamism to the region and the world. With the founding of the AIIB, an action plan to identify potential projects will be carried out.
This interview was conducted by Wen Xin Lim.
Some economic progress is, of course, to be expected in light of the tens of billions of dollars worth of sanctions relief that Iran received under the 2015 nuclear agreement, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. But that agreement was negotiated according to the leadership of a different American presidential administration, and the Trump administration and its supporters have aggressively decried the JCPOA and Obama administrations former handling of Iran in general.
President Donald Trump set a new tone for dealings with Iran very earlier in his presidency. After the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducted a new test of ballistic missiles that could be used to carry nuclear warheads, the administration issued a statement putting Iran on notice, and instituted new economic sanctions against 25 individuals and groups with links to the missile program.
This is something that many opponents of the Iranian regime hopefully regard as a first step toward a broader confrontational strategy, to include more such economic sanctions. In an editorial at The Hill, Professor Raymond Tanter suggests that the Trump administration could intensify sanctions related to Irans human rights violations and support for terrorism, all without directly undermining the JCPOA.
However, the expectation among most observers is that a broad range of pressures exerted on the Islamic Republic would ultimately lead to its walking away from the nuclear deal, or else to an overall increase in tensions that would make the deal unsustainable. These prospects are the very things that have lead the IMF to determine that Iran could still slip into a major recession, if its current access to foreign capital and trade begins to dry up.
To some extent, this has already happened. Western companies like the French energy giant Total have slowed down their pursuit of agreements that were already tentatively established among Iranian partners. Others whose dealings with Iran had not progress passed the theoretical stage have set the notion aside until it is clear whether the JCPOA will remain in force and the US government will reauthorize the suspension of key sanctions.
Of course, the persistence of uncertainty indicates that it is not yet clear that the Trump White House is committed to any particular course of action, other than a general intensification of pressure on the Islamic Republic. The nature and extent of that intensification may still be substantially affected by actions that the Iranians might take to justify further enforcement measures.
An article in the National Interest observes that Tehran has done a notoriously poor job of dispelling the suspicions of such figures as Donald Trump. The article emphasizes Irans desperate need for Western investment as a way of staving off the recession that the IMF has warned about. But it also says that the Islamic Republic itself has made that difficult, first through its intrinsic opposition to the notion of opening up relations with traditional Western adversaries, and secondly by way of its refusal to compromise the hardline positions that made it an international pariah in the first place.
Critics of the Iranian theocracy, among them the National Council of Resistance of Iran, have determined that the vast majority of the Iranian economy is controlled by hardline entities such as front companies for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. This means that some of Irans fiercest opponents of foreign engagement wield considerable influence over economic policy, and also that wide-ranging relief from international economic sanctions threatens to provide those hardliners with financial resources that could be used for the support of international terrorism or the perpetuation of domestic human rights abuses.
The National Interest notes that those hardline entities do hope to acquire access to foreign capital, but would prefer to do so without compromising their power in any measure. This arguably makes the continuation of sanctions relief and economic engagement difficult to justify in the West, especially among allies of the current US president.
That presidents new policies have been answered with renewed rhetoric on the part of the Iranian regime, and this is certainly no help if Tehran wishes to alter its habit of making it difficult for foreign entities to do business with or in Iran.
Iran Front Page News reported on Tuesday that Ali Larijani, the speaker of the Iranian parliament had spoken at a ceremony to commemorate Iranians killed in the Syrian Civil War, and had used the occasion to heap praise upon the IRGC for its foreign interventionist activities and its unique preoccupation with the defense and advancement of the regimes interpretation of Islamic ideology.
Larijanis statements would be disturbing enough to critics of the regime under normal circumstances, but his public embrace of escalating IRGC power comes at a time when the hardline paramilitary organization has recently completed multi-day exercises and demonstrations of new weapons systems, accompanied by explicit statements of readiness for war with enemies such as the United States.
Whats more, the website Liberty Unyielding pointed to reports on Tuesday that a high-ranking IRGC officer named Hassan Abbassi, who is also the head of an influential Iranian think tank, declared that he believed the IRGC would be capable of raising a guerilla army from among the two million Iranians presently living in Iran.
Abbassis rhetoric ignores the fact that a great many of those Iranians relocated to the US specifically in order to flee from the oppressive Iranian theocracy, and that many are active participants in political groups like the National Council of Resistance of Iran, which openly advocates for regime change and the establishment of a truly democratic system of governance in Tehran. Nevertheless, the IRGC officials statement underscores the hardline positions that are prominent among his colleagues and that have the continued support of leading government officials such as Speaker Larijani.
It goes without saying that the ongoing expression and support of such positions makes it exceptionally unlikely that the Trump administration will back down from its assertive policies, which could threaten the Iranian regimes efforts to reclaim economic stability.
Update - 11.52pm: The Stormont election is set to deliver a significant boost to nationalism at the expense of unionists.
Sinn Fein's vote has surged and the republicans could come within a seat or two of drawing level with the DUP - a party that came into the snap election holding 10 more seats.
Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt announced his resignation after his party suffered losses in a poll he predicted would deliver big gains.
Whatever the final shakedown when the counts conclude on Saturday, unionist representatives are unlikely to hold a symbolic overall majority in the slimmed-down Assembly chamber. They are still set to secure more seats than nationalists and republicans - given the number of cross-community Assembly members - but the gap will have narrowed sharply.
While Mr Nesbitt held his Assembly seat, other high-profile MLAs were not so lucky.
The SDLP's Alex Attwood, the UUP's Danny Kennedy, and the DUP's Nelson McCausland and Lord Morrow were four former Executive ministers who failed to secure a return to a Stormont legislature that is being cut from 108 to 90 members.
Away from Mr Nesbitt's dramatic announcement, the story of the election has been the surge in support for Sinn Fein.
The republican party came extremely close to securing more first preference votes than the long-time largest party, the DUP.
While the DUP saw its vote dip, the travails of the UUP means it is still set to reaffirm its position as the main voice of unionism.
Party insiders will take some solace from that, given so much of the election campaign was focused on the party's handling of a botched green energy scheme.
With the UUP failing to make any ground on the DUP, former TV anchor Mr Nesbitt fell on his sword.
His campaign pledge to transfer a second preference vote to the nationalist SDLP appears to have been his undoing, with unionist voters clearly not keen on him voicing support for any candidate who favoured a united Ireland.
Indicating that he will remain in position while his successor is found, Mr Nesbitt said it had been an "absolute honour" to lead the party.
"In pure terms, the buck stops here," he said.
He said his real regret was that Northern Ireland society appeared to have emerged from the election more polarised.
Mr Nesbitt said the electorate had rejected his hope for a post-sectarian vote.
"We will get there," he said. "Some day Northern Ireland will vote as a normal democracy. We will vote in a post-sectarian election, but it's now clear it will not happen during the duration of my political career."
Mr Nesbitt will remain a Strangford MLA.
Sinn Fein's northern leader Michelle O'Neill said: "I think it's a brilliant day for equality, I think it's a great day for democracy.
"I want to particularly commend all of our candidates that have been elected.
"The vote has increased. I think that is because people knew that action needed to be taken, they have had their say, we now need to get down to the business of fixing what's wrong and delivering for all citizens."
The poll was forced after Sinn Fein pulled the plug on the powersharing institutions in protest at DUP first minister Arlene Foster's handling of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) - an error-ridden scheme that left Stormont facing a potential overspend of almost 500 million.
The campaign exposed other major policy disputes between the parties.
After being elected in her Fermanagh and South Tyrone constituency, Mrs Foster said: "I think it's very clear that was absolutely not about RHI. It may have been the excuse but it certainly wasn't the cause of the election.
"The cause of the election was Sinn Fein and republicanism wanting to rerun the election, they have mobilised their vote in a very effective way.
"I am pleased that the DUP has come out as the largest party in terms of votes. It is very clear in terms of unionism that it is the Democratic Unionist Party that speaks for unionism."
She added: "I do hope devolution will get back up and running as quickly as possible."
The DUP and Sinn Fein will have three weeks to resolve their multiple differences and form a new administration.
The re-imposition of direct rule from London is on the cards if the post-election talks fail.
If the three-week post-election deadline passes, Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire is legally obliged to call yet another election.
In those circumstances, the Government may pass emergency legislation to suspend devolution for the first time in 10 years ahead of more lengthy negotiations.
Update - 8.10pm: Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt has quit after his party's poor showing in the Assembly election.
With the UUP failing to make any ground on the Democratic Unionists, and losing a number of high-profile seats, the former TV anchor fell on his sword.
His campaign pledge to transfer a second preference vote to the nationalist SDLP appears to have been his undoing, with unionist voters clearly not keen on him voicing support for any candidate that favoured a united Ireland.
He said that he will remain in position while his successor is found.
Update -7.50pm: Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionists are on course to reinforce their power at Stormont.
Counting is still under way in Northern Ireland's Assembly election but DUP Leader Arlene Foster says it appears to have been a "very good day" for Sinn Fein.
So far, 42 of the 90 available seats have been filled.
Update - 6.15pm: Arlene Foster has been formally elected in Fermanagh South Tyrone.
One of the most significant moments of the furore around the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) was when former DUP minister Jonathan Bell broke party ranks to level a series of explosive allegations against Mrs Foster and party special advisers - accusations they denied.
He was subsequently suspended by the party and stood in the election as an independent in the Strangford constituency. It was a move that did not pay off, as he was eliminated at stage seven of Friday's count.
Update - 5.55pm: In Belfast West Alex Maskey (Sinn Fein) and Gerry Carroll (People Before Profit) both retained their seats after an interim declaration in round three of the count.
Update - 5.45pm: SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said Sinn Fein were the "net beneficiaries" of a huge nationalist turnout intent on punishing Mrs Foster.
"The Sinn Fein vote has gone up very highly, which is a result of the overall context of this election, which has been pitched as a battle between the DUP and Sinn Fein," he said.
"Those of us in the middle have been clearly squeezed."
Mr Eastwood failed to top the poll in his Foyle constituency - cradle of the SDLP - where Sinn Fein's Elisha McCallion romped home almost 2,000 votes over the quota.
Putting a brave face on the result, Mr Eastwood claimed his party was not interested in topping polls but will be happy to increase its vote and retain its two seats in Derry.
The SDLP leader believes his party support will remain steady.
"Our overall vote is probably in and around where it was, it is just that Sinn Fein have been the net beneficiaries of a huge nationalist turnout to punish Arlene Foster.
"That seems very, very clear now."
Mr Eastwood also paid tribute to SDLP stalwart Mr Attwood who lost his seat in West Belfast.
(left to right) SDLP member Margaret Walsh, SDLP candidate Alex Attwood, and SDLP candidate Nicola Mallon walking into the Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast, today.
"Alex has given decades of service to Ireland and he has done an amazing job and given an enormous contribution to our peace process and to our politics .
"We'll miss him very much."
DUP East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson said the party's vote had held up well across the constituencies so far.
"All the circumstances were stacked against us. You will see people want to see a return to Stormont and they believe that we are the right party to lead unionism."
He said Arlene Foster was the right person to lead the DUP.
"Despite the torrents of abuse and smears and innuendo that was levelled against her, the people are sticking with her," he said.
Update - 5.20pm: In a major blow to the UUP, party stalwart Danny Kennedy lost his seat in Newry and Armagh.
His elimination followed the loss of another Stormont veteran - the SDLP's Alex Attwood in west Belfast.
Update - 4.55pm: Sinn Fein has come within touching distance of polling the most first preference votes in the Northern Ireland Assembly election.
The Democratic Unionists maintained the top spot, despite their vote share falling as the Sinn Fein share surged.
The DUP notched 225,413 first preferences, down 1.11 percentage points on last year, to Sinn Fein's 224,245 - an increase of 3.89 percentage points.
In terms of the overall picture, the DUP secured 28.06% of first preferences to Sinn Fein's 27.91%.
Sinn Fein candidates for West Tyrone Barry McElduff (right) and Michaela Boyle celebrate having been deemed elected at the Omagh count centre.
The final break-down of seats may not be as close, as results in the proportional representation contest rely on transfers from other parties, but the republicans were nevertheless buoyed by the result.
Arriving at the Belfast count centre, Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams said: "It is a vote and mandate that will have to be respected by the two governments (UK and Irish), by all the other parties, for a step change, for an end to the old status quo, for a new beginning as to how we do our business here."
It will be hours before the wider picture is confirmed, but it is clear that the DUP and Sinn Fein are on course to retain their positions as Stormont's two largest parties.
The Ulster Unionists and nationalist SDLP have failed to make the inroads they predicted.
However, the vote share of the cross-community Alliance Party rose significantly.
Update - 4pm: DUP leader Arlene Foster has topped the poll in Fermanagh South Tyrone, but fallen short of passing the quota required for election on the first count.
In the Foyle constituency, where Elisha McCallion's poll-topping performance for Sinn Fein delivered a blow to the SDLP in its traditional heartland, she has called former Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness "a giant".
The decision by Mr McGuinness to stand down and his ongoing battle with illness is being seen as factor in boosting the party's vote.
Ms McCallion said: "Martin McGuinness in this town is a giant, he is a legend and a hero and I have no doubt that the position he took in January has meant that the Sinn Fein vote throughout the six counties has increased in the way that it has.
"We are absolutely delighted that for the first time ever Sinn Fein have out-polled the SDLP here in Foyle.
"But it doesn't come as a surprise. We have been hearing this very clearly on the doors , people understand the politics and what we are about."
Update - 3.15pm: So far 12 of the 90 available seats have been filled, with Sinn Fein's northern leader Michelle O'Neill and Alliance Party leader Naomi Long among them.
Former Democratic Unionist communities minister Paul Givan was elected in Lagan Valley while Sinn Fein's former economy minister Mairtin O Muilleoir also secured his return to the Assembly chamber, romping home in south Belfast.
Alliance Party leader Naomi Long was later elected in east Belfast.
Among other confirmed results, Democratic Unionist Alex Easton, Alliance's Stephen Farry and Ulster Unionist Alan Chambers were elected in North Down while Sinn Fein's Elisha McCallion was elected in Foyle.
Long-standing SDLP Assembly member Alex Attwood has lost his seat in West Belfast after a strong performance from Sinn Fein.
Update - 2.30pm: First results are coming in the Northern Ireland Assembly election, with a big win for Sinn Fein in Belfast West.
Sinn Feins Orlaithi Flynn topped the poll there, while the partys Mairtin O Muilleoir was also elected in South Belfast.
Orlaithi Flynn after being elected as the new Sinn Fein MLA for West Belfast at the Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast,
Three other seats have been filled in the North Down constituency - with one seat each for the UUP, DUP and Alliance parties.
Earlier: Turnout in the Northern Ireland Assembly election has hit its highest level since the year of the Good Friday peace agreement.
Almost two thirds of the electorate voted in yesterday's poll - with the future of powersharing hanging in the balance.
The number taking to the ballot boxes swelled to 64.78%, 10% higher than last year's Stormont poll.
A total of 812,783 votes were cast.
Northern Ireland election fought along "tribal lines" and could still lead to "stalemate" says @endamcclafferty pic.twitter.com/xVck5vXDum BBC Daily Politics and Sunday Politics (@daily_politics) March 3, 2017
The snap Stormont Assembly election was called following January's collapse of the ministerial coalition with the DUP and Sinn Fen at its helm in a row over a botched green energy scheme.
Soaring viewing figures for the two main TV leaders' debates had hinted at a surge in voter engagement, something borne out on polling day.
What impact the increased turnout will have on the results will only start to become clear when the first returns start to filter through during Friday afternoon.
In the first Assembly election after devolution began, in June 1998, 69.88% turned out.
It came just months after the Belfast Agreement, which largely ended the 30-year conflict.
Some of the 18 constituency counts are set to extend into Saturday.
A total of 228 candidates are vying for the 90 seats in Stormont's slimmed-down devolved legislature.
The Assembly poll was the second in 10 months.
The last coalition executive led by the two largest parties at Stormont - the Democratic Unionists and Sinn Fein - collapsed in January, only eight months after last May's election.
Michelle O'Neill, leader of Sinn Fein in Northern Ireland, (left) arrives at the Seven Towers Leisure Centre, Ballymena.
They fell out over the unionist party's handling of a botched green energy scheme and are also at odds on a host of other issues.
If the former partners in government are again returned as the main players, they will have three weeks to resolve their multiple differences and form a new administration.
The reimposition of direct rule from London is on the cards if the post-election talks fail.
The Ulster Unionists and nationalist Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), which have presented themselves as an alternative partnership, are bidding to wrest control away from the fractious former allies.
The cross-community Alliance Party is also hopeful of a strengthened mandate.
If the three-week post-election deadline passes, Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire is legally obliged to call yet another election.
However, in those circumstances, the Government may pass emergency legislation to suspend devolution for the first time in 10 years ahead of more lengthy negotiations.
While the Assembly ballot will not change how Theresa May's Government treats talks to leave the European Union, the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is a key Brexit issue.
Five Assembly seats are up for grabs in each constituency, with the overall number returned falling from 108 to 90 as a consequence of the implementation of previously agreed reform measures.
Northern Ireland uses the single transferable vote (STV) proportional representation electoral system.
Owen Callan, analyst at Investec Ireland, said the banks decision to restart paying a dividend for the first time since the financial crisis had smoothed the path for the Government to confirm it will sell a 25% stake in AIB.
Potential investors will view the dividend payment as a signal the regulator is confident that AIB has a grip over its still elevated level of non-performing loans, the analyst said.
In its 2016 results, released yesterday, AIB said it had net interest income of over 2.01bn, up 4% from a year earlier. At 294m, it reported a much lower level of write back in loan provisions and posted a 12% drop in pre-tax profit to over 1.68bn.
Its net interest margina key measure of performance for banksclimbed to 2.25% from 1.97%.
Chief executive Bernard Byrne said the proposed payment of 250m in a dividend payment was evidence of the banks profit ability and marked progress in returning the bank to financial health.
The bank said it was ready for a shares sales whenever Finance Minister Michael Noonan decides that should be.
Mr Byrne told reporters the lender had made much progress in reducing the non-performing levels in recent years and had the wherewithal and much more comfort in ways of dealing with non-performing loans in the future.
Analysts said there was only a small risk signs of political tensions at home would deflect the Government from selling AIB shares in the early summer. Mr Callan said market concerns about continental European politics, including the Dutch and French elections, had eased.
Darren McKinley, analyst at Merrion Capital, said that the market was ripe for the sale of bank stocks. He predicted the Government could slot a sale of shares in late April at the earliest.
On the ongoing industry-wide investigation into tracker mortgages, AIB said it had compensated 2,600 customers so far.
The analysts said Brexit could disrupt trade across the Irish Sea more than initially thought as the UK seeks to stay out of the single market and warned some form of border controls between the North and the Republic will likely re-emerge to disrupt trade.
An overhaul of US corporate taxes could reduce the flow of investments by US multinationals and harm the public finances here.
It is the first time that a credit rating agency has clearly detailed the risks facing the economy from Brexit and from the election of US president Donald Trump.
Moodys nonetheless expects Ireland to continue to post very strong growth though the effects on the economy in the longer term could be significant.
But a hard Brexit and more recently the prospect of major corporate tax reforms in the US now constitute the biggest risks to the countrys otherwise very positive growth prospects, it said. While these risks are not exclusive to Ireland, we believe it is the European country most exposed to them.
On Brexit, the analysts are concerned that the risk to Ireland have ratcheted up, if the UK were to adopt a trade agreement under World Tarde Organisation rules.
It notes that in terms of exports that the UK is Irelands second largest market overall. Supply chains between Britain and Ireland could be disrupted because some manufacturing industries in Ireland rely heavily on imports from Britain, if the UK and the EU fail to strike a trade deal.
It also highlights sectors such as food and beverages and tourism that are exposed more than others. And financial services firms relocating to Ireland from Britain and the countrys potential to lure investment projects that would otherwise have gone to the UK may offset some but not all of the negative trade impact.
It finds that shortages of housing in Ireland could limit the ability to attract large amounts of foreign direct investment from any Brexit fallout.
Also any positive Brexit effects wold be undermined if the UK lowered its own corporate tax rate beyond its current target rate of 17% by April 2020, compared to the current rate of 20%, said Moodys. The UK prime minister recently pointed to this option in case its negotiations with the EU did not result in a favourable new trade agreement.
In saying that existing investments would unlikely be affected, Ireland could in time be exposed more than most to proposals for US tax reforms due to the huge level of US investments here.
It is unclear whether the current US proposals including a reduction in the corporate tax rate to 20% from 35% currently, tax incentives for corporate investment in the US and the repatriation of profits currently held abroad as well as changes to discourage tax inversion transactions will be implemented in full and over what timeframe, Moodys said.
But, if implemented, they would be detrimental to Ireland and other low-tax jurisdictions with a large presence of US multinationals.
American Chamber of Commerce Ireland president James OConnor yesterday told a gathering of the industry group that 2017 is likely to be a year of both challenge and opportunity for the US-Ireland relationship.
The Dublin company is the former general produce arm of Fyffes. It has also increased its investment in Canadian produce group Oppenheimer. The 28.4m spend on another 30% of Oppenheimer takes Totals stake to 65% and its investment in the company to 43.4m.
As a result, Total Produce has around a 1% share of the north American produce market and a growing international presence.
Oppenheimer has also announced a strategic investment in a joint-venture with New Zealand group T&G Global, which will focus on exporting fresh produce from the US into Asia.
The Canadian companys sales have doubled since Total Produces initial investment in 2011. The Irish company will still however, keep looking for further international growth opportunities.
The group is continuing to actively pursue additional acquisitions, chairman Carl McCann said yesterday on the back of the groups 2016 annual results presentation.
Total Produce spent 60m on acquisitions last year in Europe and North America, with those buys expected to boost group revenues to over 4bn by the end of this year.
We expect US revenue to ramp up over the next two-to-three years as investment and management and distribution channels start to bear fruit, said Darren McKinley of Merrion Stockbrokers.
The group continues to pursue value- enhancing opportunities in new and existing markets, and to this end, it retains significant financial flexibility with net debt to earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of 0.5 times at year-end, said Declan Morrissey at Davy Stockbrokers.
On the back of last years acquisition spree, Total Produce ended 2016 with net debt of 48.4m, compared to 18.1m 12 months earlier.
Yesterdays results showed a near 9% increase in revenues to 3.76bn and a 17% rise in adjusted pre-tax profits to 67.7m. Adjusted fully diluted earnings per share rose by just over 14% to 12.07c and management is targeting earnings per share of 12c to 13c for 2017.
Total Produces international arm which covers its north American and Indian businesses increased revenue by 69.5% to 544m. The eurozone division including Ireland saw revenues rise 6.1% to 1.75bn, but the rest of Europe saw a 1% sales fall to 1.52bn.
Total Produces shares increased by over 3% in trade yesterday.
Speaking on World Book Day, James Daunt said sales at the Irish business of Waterstones continue to strengthen and sales have gone up a few notches recently and we are making a reasonable amount of money to be able to re-invest in the business.
Mr Daunt said the companys Cork store is doing brilliantly. However, he said disruption caused by the Luas works on Dawson St in Dublin has been a nightmare for the firms flagship Hodges Figgis store.
A pony was also left to decompose on the farm.
Thomas Doyle, a single man, of Fourhane, Listowel, had been sent forward from the District Court for trial on 89 counts and has now pleaded guilty to 11.
Prosecutor Tom Rice for the DPP said what was involved were sample charges. The offences relate to the period December 23 to 30, 2015, and were breaches of the Animal Cruelty and Animal Welfare Act 2013.
The offences include failing to care for a female collie dog, leaving a Jack Russell dog unattended; causing unnecessary suffering to a black miniature piglet; failing to feed and water a brown and white hamster; a yellow canary had been left without water; and there was unnecessary suffering to a white rat. Other neglected animals include a beige goat and a two ponies.
A dead foal had also been left on the ground and was left in a place where a dog could gain access to it.
The mans barrister Katie OConnell asked for legal aid to be extended to include psychiatric and medical reports. Judge Thomas E ODonnell agreed to this request, if necessary, and adjourned the matter to April.
Speaking in Brussels after a meeting with EU Parliament president, Antonio Tajani, Mr Kenny said he will suggest the matter in his talks with US president Trump; vice-president Mike Pence; and speaker of the House, Paul Ryan.
When I go to America and I speak with president Trump, vice-president Pence and speaker Ryan it is important the American Congress should have discussions and have the opportunity to talk things through with the European Union. President Tajani is willing to travel to America and play his part, he said.
Mr Kenny also held meetings with Michel Barnier, the EUs chief Brexit negotiator, and president Donald Tusk in which he raised Irelands main concerns about Britains pending departure.
We are facing a huge political challenge, but we want an orderly discussion with Britain. I assured Antonio and Donald Tusk [president of European Council] that Ireland will remain a member of the European Union and will address those issues from the position of sitting in with the 27.
I had a good meeting with president Donald Tusk earlier today and we discussed the question of the future of the European Union in particular in relation to Brexit and our specific concerns in regard to Northern Ireland, the peace process, and the relationship with the United Kingdom.
"I met with a number of the Irish MEPs and had a discussion with them, mostly about Brexit and its impact on Northern Ireland and the peace process, he said.
Mr Kenny also said yesterdays elections in Northern Ireland formed part of his discussions.
I have made it clear for quite some time now, before these elections, the Good Friday Agreement contains the opportunity to put in these negotiations language that has already been agreed in internationally binding agreement, that at some future time were that position to arise, that if the people by consent were to form a united Ireland that that could be a seamless transfer as happened in the case of East Germany and West Germany when the Berlin Wall came down, he said.
Mr Kenny said he wants the wording of the Good Friday Agreement included in any final Brexit deal between Britain and the EU.
Mr Tajani said the Irish concerns about the peace process and trade links with Britain have the full attention of the parliament.
I understand the deep political, economic and historical ties that link Ireland to the UK. Brexit will be a particular challenge for Ireland and it has two main issues. Ireland must ensure that its economic links to the UK are protected.
Secondly, it must ensure that the terms of the Good Friday Agreement which has given peace in Northern Ireland are included in any future agreement between the UK and the EU, he said.
The Federation of Irish Beekeepers Associations along with Birdwatch Ireland, the Hedge Laying Association of Ireland, the Irish Wildlife Trust, and An Taisce were protesting against the Heritage Bill which was debated in the Seanad yesterday afternoon.
Existing legislation allows for hedge-cutting and upland burning from September 1 until the last day of February.
However, the new legislation, if passed, would allow the cutting, grubbing and otherwise destroying of hedgerows in August and burning in the uplands in March.
The president of the Federation of Irish Beekeepers Association, Gerry Ryan, said the extension by an extra month of the permitted period for both these activities will have serious adverse consequences for Irelands already threatened and declining biodiversity.
This bill totally ignores sectors such as the beekeeping and fruit sectors which rely heavily if not exclusively on pollinators, who in turn rely on pollen in August, to survive throughout the winter.
"Irelands hedgerows are a vital source of pollen and permitting a blanket cutting of hedgerows in August will greatly endanger the bee population he said.
Oonagh Duggan of Birdwatch Ireland said the proposals would cut into the bird breeding season and pointed to a petition of 26,000 names rejecting the legislation: We ask senators to listen to these voices and to reject Section 8 of the Heritage Bill on the basis that it ignores the science which says that it could seriously impact on nesting birds and could be the death knell for some species already in trouble.
But it will also impact bees, which need all the help they can get, not Government-condoned habitat destruction. If this bill is passed it will send a clear message that Ireland is not serious about protecting its natural heritage for generations to come.
Speaking ahead of the protest, Senator Alice-Mary Higgins said the plan is not backed up by any research or scientific data.
Gary Walsh, 31, pleaded guilty to the robbery of 3,800 at Blarney Post Office at Monacnappa, on January 24 last.
Originally, from Blarney, the accused had addresses at Mill Lane, Ballincollig, Co Cork, and an apartment in a retail park at Kilmallock, Co Limerick.
CCTV evidence tracked his journey to Kilmallock as the Toyota Avensis he was driving had a number of distinguishing features including bright silvery handles and hub caps.
He admitted his involvement in the robbery and acknowledged that the money found in his jacket amounting to 1,600 was some of the proceeds. The remaining 2,200 was not recovered.
Detective Sergeant Maurice Leahy said Walsh waited in a queue until a woman customer left. He then produced a note from his pocket.
The teller noticed Walsh had something up his sleeve which she believed was the barrel of a gun. Walsh would later tell gardai it was an iron bar and not a gun.
The detective said: There was no roaring and shouting, he did not physically threaten her. If anything he was very discreet and quiet about what he was doing.
He handed over a plastic bag to be filled with money, he then went to his car which was parked 50 metres away and drove to his home in Kilmallock.
Walsh was out on licence from prison when he carried out the crime in Blarney.
Peter OFlynn, defence barrister, outlined domestic matters and said it was the defendants belief he has done the wrong thing for the right reason.
He said Walsh had an addiction to cocaine in the past and went on to develop an addiction to prescription tablets.
Walsh wrote a letter of apology to the post office worker.
Judge David Riordan, imposing a five-year sentence, with the last year suspended, said if the defendant was truthful about using the proceeds of the crime for domestic reasons, there should be some receipts to show the missing 2,200 had gone for that purpose.
He offered to adjourn sentencing for receipts but Mr OFlynn said there was no application for an adjournment.
Three Irish children are currently residing at St Andrews in Northampton by order of the Irish High Court, while a number of other Irish young people have been in similar placements there in recent years.
On Wednesday, a Channel 4 documentary entitled Under Lock and Key featured the stories of some UK residents who had stayed there, with many of those interviewed for the programme raising serious concerns about how their relatives were cared for.
The aunt of one girl, Fauzia Yasmin Hussain, who spent 22 months in St Andrews, told the programme: I was very concerned she would die there, really.
The documentary makers were told she spent much of her time at the facility in segregation, and sometimes in a room with little natural daylight.
The parents of Matthew Garnett, another child who had been placed in the centre, also expressed misgivings about the care offered to their son. He was restrained and placed in seclusion 11 times over a five-month period, with his parents claiming that they were not properly consulted.
A separate report also indicated that face-down (prone) restraint was used at St Andrews, particularly in its child and adolescent wards.
St Andrews defended the standard of care on offer, said measures are taken to protect patients and others at the facility, and told the programme-makers that prone restraint is only used as a last resort.
Responding to the programme, Tusla said there are currently three children in Tusla placements in St Andrews Healthcare.
Fauzia Yasmin Hussain, a former patient at St Andrews. Yasmins case featured in the programme.
Whilst Tusla is satisfied with the care provided to the young people currently placed at the facility, we will be meeting with St Andrews Healthcare and seeking further assurances in relation to the current practices at the facility, a Tusla spokesperson said.
Each child was placed in St Andrews Healthcare under an order of the High Court, which retains oversight of the placement.
"St Andrews Healthcare is highly regulated. However, these children remain in the care of Tusla and to ensure their safety and wellbeing, we receive regular detailed reports on the child, they have regular visits from their allocated social worker, an up-to-date written care plan, access to their families/carers where this is in their best interests, and aftercare planning with an allocated aftercare worker.
Tusla said each young person in such a placement has a court-appointed Guardian Ad Litem and the ultimate goal was to have them return home to Ireland.
The spokesperson said that St Andrews Healthcare is a secure mental health facility and in making such placements, the High Court here required a clinical recommendation by a HSE/Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service psychiatrist, with stipulations that arrangements are in place to ensure ongoing clinical oversight by a psychiatrist from the mental health service in Ireland.
The courts will ask that the psychiatrist provides reports on the childs progress in the care facility, the spokesperson said. These arrangements are put in place to ensure clinical continuity for the young person and their family and to assist in planning for the young persons return to Ireland when clinically indicated.
In 2015, a judge granted the wishes of a young Irish woman who applied to return to Ireland from the 400,000 a year facility.
ONE of Britains most distinguished baritones leads a macabre dance in Dublin. Simon Keenlyside is the baritone soloist in Totentanz, a new work by Thomas Ades which will have its Irish premiere at the National Concert Hall tonight.
A glance through Keenlysides biography gives an idea of just how far reaching a career the London born baritone has had. It lists no less than 50 roles performed in major houses all over the world over the last three decades. It is an incredible diversity of characters in his long time crashing around as a gypsy as he self-deprecatingly puts it.
He arrives for his first Dublin appearance hotfoot from playing the legendary serial seducer, Don Giovanni for Opera de Bilbao, a role he played at the Met Opera, New York earlier this season.
Totentanz is described by Ades as an existential battle between life and death. The British composer has set to music a sequence of 15th century German verses known as the Lubecker Totentanz, originally composed to accompany an artwork created the same year at the Marienkirche in Lubeck.
Sadly, the artwork was destroyed during World War II, but images of it remain, as do the texts, depicting a gleefully macabre grim reaper here played by the baritone interacting with a cavalcade of characters, including a baby, a monk, a maiden and even the Pope, voiced by the soprano.
Ades will be reunited with both soloists who premiered the work with him at the 2013 Proms. Dutch soprano Christianne Stotijn performs the mezzo-soprano role. The singers will be supported by the full might of the RTE NSO with up a beefed percussion section including an assortment of instruments that read like the accoutrements of a torture chamber; bamboo canes, ratchets , snake rattles, whips and clappers.
Keenlyside famously created the role of Prospero in Ades opera, The Tempest.
Having come across Tom almost by chance, I am devoted to him. It doesnt take genius to recognise genius. The music is stunning. Its extreme but worth the struggle and I try my hardest to do justice to his incredible score. The play is everything and you are a merely a texture in it. You do as much homework as you can. Then you strap in and go for a ride
Keenleyside reveals he has fascinating Irish roots. His Russian Jewish forebears were en route from Riga to New York when they were put ashore in Dublin. His grandfather Leonard Hirsch was born in South Great Georges Street in 1902. The 1911 census shows the family of Maurice Hirsch, a draper living in Leeson Street.
His son, Leonard Hirsch went on to be a distinguished figure operating at every level of string playing in Britain, a leader of the Halle Orchestra and revered teacher of generations of British violinists. He had his first violin lessons in Dublin before the family relocated to Britain.
I am looking forward to seeing where my grandfather was born. He was very proud of his Irish connection.
It seems appropriate that Keenlyside comes to perform in Dublin as he has recently taken Irish citizenship as a statement of his European credentials following Brexit.
He prefaced his first appearance in Ireland with a masterclass for six of Irelands best young professional singers. He bristles at the term masterclass. Its the wrong word. It is just my turn to give back. My grandfather always said that as long as you are a couple of steps ahead you have something to offer. Im further down the road and I am just sharing with my next group of colleagues.
Simon Keenlyside performs in Totentanz at the NCH tonight as part of New Music Dublin
Howre oo goin on? Herself had a few glasses of wine on Wednesday night and didnt she log into one of them porn sites by mistake. Two things have happened as a result of this, one more shocking than the other. The first is we have started getting a lot of emails from a woman in Russia who can hardly see out over her boobs. The second is my wife is after signing up for a bit of work with one of these porn sites, where she has described herself as a milf. What is a man like myself to do in this situation? Din Dan Dinny Dan, Dunmanway, whats a milf?
Not something I could explain in a family newspaper. But if youre wife is a milf, then Im Melania Trump. I think your experience proves one thing beyond a shadow of a doubt, Din Dan Dinny Dan. It isnt necessarily a good idea to give broadband to people in rural areas.
Hey, dude, now that you have direct flights to and from America, Im like totally planning to open a Cork office for my software company. We have this app that detects illegal immigrants and like shouts Hey man, get back to Mexico. Were seeing some awesome sales for it right now in Washington and London. Would you guys like to work for me? Josh, Boston, Im single.
Im not surprised. Let me put it this way, in terms of working for your company. Id rather buy a bag of used underpants from a shop in Kilmallock. (Google man from Kilmallock and youll see what I mean.) That said, youll have no problem attracting an army of 20 somethings to work for you. Just give them a free smartphone and a fridge full of doughnuts. My uncle has his own IT recruitment company on the South Mall (Posh weather.) He says the young crowd have the scruples of a contestant at the Conman of the Year Festival in Sneem.
Hello dear. I am having some trouble with my new neighbours. They are away a lot and their online shopping deliveries end up in my house. My grandson took one sniff of the latest package today and said its cannabis (hes a drummer.) Im afraid to drop it next door, in case I run into one of the other neighbours. Id be the talk of the bridge club. What should I do? Pauline, Monkstown, Im well into my 90s.
Im well into my Botox so people have trouble guessing my age. Its like a new religion out here in Ballinlough. You are in an awkward situation alright. Walking down the street with a bag of cannabis is bound to get you noticed, except maybe in Galway. Heres my advice: Keep the drugs for yourself; my guess is youll probably give up playing bridge.
I dropped my Sophie to school yesterday wearing gym gear I bought in TK Maxx. I know, I know, Im an awful Mom. I usually only wear stuff I bought in Matthews, but just this once I was in a rush. Anyway, dont ask how they knew, but the girls in Sophies class spotted my cut-price gear and started mocking her, saying were poor now and will have probably have to move to Turners Cross (Imagine!) How can I show them were still loaded? Monica, Blackrock Road, Id hate it if I actually had to move to Turners Cross.
So would the people in Turners Cross. I hear the school-drop is getting more competitive alright. My posh cousin said she could hardly hear herself think when she dropped her Sophie (do ye all have Sophies?) to school in Douglas. Apparently, all the Moms were roaring at each other in French to show they were in the Alps for mid-term. One of the Moms foolishly admitted she went to Bulgaria. The rest blocked her on Facebook, faster than you could say my eldest two are in Scoil Mhuire at a coffee morning for charity.
Cmere, whats the story with the Dublin Airport Authority? They got every politician south of Horse and Jockey to campaign for those Norwegian flights from Cork. And then they announce 12 sly flights from Dublin, just to rub our noses in it. Worse again, they gave four flights to Shannon, which is basically Belgooly with a runway. How much more of this do we have to take down here in Cork? Dowcha Donie, Blackpool, I finish a lot of my sentences with do you know that kind of way?
Dont we all, boy. If its any consolation the new flights arent exactly going to Boston. Theyre going to Providence, Rhode Island, which is basically Belgooly with two runways. So it might still be an attractive proposition to drive to Shannon. As long as you wind up your window going through Charleville; the smell is like a cross between a dead horse and Essence de Dungarvan.
In his determination to implement his policy of restoration, Pope John Paul II, throughout his 26-year pontificate (the second longest in the history of the Catholic Church), assiduously used the appointment of bishops throughout the world as a key mechanism to achieve his objective.
His aim was to restore the Church to where it had been before the reforms introduced by the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), reforms that alarmed him, not least because they created what the late Peter Hebblethwaite, one of the very best Vatican-watchers, memorably called a runaway church.
John Paul II saw it as his mission to bring this runaway institution back under firm centralised control, and he used the appointment of conservative bishops across the globe as a central element in this process.
The key criterion that all new bishops had to meet was this: Absolute fealty to him and his vision of what he wanted the Church to be in the aftermath of Vatican II. So strictly was this policy insisted upon that one American bishop, emerging from a meeting with John Paul II, was heard to complain: He treats us like messenger boys.
Hebblethwaite, author of acclaimed biographies of Pope John XXIII and Pope Paul VI, noted that the appointments of bishops remained firmly in the hands of Rome.
He explained the modus operandi: Talk of consultation made little practical difference, and the role of papal nuncios or apostolic delegates remained decisive. The appointment of bishops remained the principal means of control over the local churches.
From the time in the early 1980s that John Paul II rolled out his restoration blueprint, the system of appointing safe but often mediocre candidates men who were content to be managers rather than leaders became one of its defining characteristics. And Ireland was no exception.
The policy was continued by Pope Benedict XVI and, surprisingly, has not significantly changed under Pope Francis, despite his reputation as a great reformer (the sub-title of a book by one of his biographers).
The preference for loyal bishops who could be relied upon to do the bidding of the Congregations of the Roman Curia (they have what canon lawyers call the power of governance) sometimes led to the elevation of people clearly unsuited to be bishops.
Two glaring examples of this were the appointment of John Magee to Cloyne in 1987, and that of Desmond Connell (who died recently at the age of 90) as Archbishop of Dublin in 1988.
The Magee appointment was also a blatant example of the bureaucratic indifference to the consequences of a decision made in Rome: The good of the Diocese of Cloyne was not the primary consideration when that appointment was made.
Those of us in the media who were in Rome for Magees episcopal ordination believed that, because he had been English-language secretary to three popes (Paul VI, John Paul I, and John Paul II), Cloyne would be a stepping-stone to Armagh.
We were wrong. Magee was, in effect, being banished from Rome by the Polish mafia around the Pope; they were tired of his sanctimoniousness, and the vacancy in Cloyne happened to provide a convenient excuse, and so he was shipped out.
You dont have to believe everything about the Vatican and papal court in a book such as The Power and the Glory: Inside the Dark Heart of John Paul IIs Vatican by David Yallop, but, at the same time, it would be naive to believe that all episcopal appointments are made for the best of motives. They most assuredly are not. And it was ever thus.
Bishops are appointed by the Pope; Canon 377 of the Code of Canon Law stipulates that The Supreme Pontiff freely appoints bishops... Section 5 of that canon also states: For the future, no rights or privileges of election, appointment, presentation or designation of Bishops are conceded to civil authorities.
Such rights and privileges were indeed conceded in the past, so to say that bishops were always appointed by the Pope is historically incorrect.
Even today, in appointing bishops, the Pope, in perhaps 95% of the cases, merely rubber-stamps the nominations prepared by the Congregation for Bishops, one of the key Vatican departments. This shouldnt surprise us.
With almost 3,000 diocesan bishops in the world, no pope can be expected to have first-hand or even third-hand knowledge of leading candidates when vacancies occur. Popes have a myriad other matters to attend to, so they must rely on the bureaucrats of the Roman Curia. And thats where the power and influence of papal nuncios comes into play.
They are meant to be the eyes and ears of the pope in the countries to which they have been assigned. In his book All the Popes Men, John Allen, now religion editor for the Boston Globe, reminds us that nuncios have the responsibility for preparing the terna, or list of three names of candidates for the appointment of new bishops.
Allen goes on to quote Cardinal Jorge Mejia, former secretary of the Congregation of Bishops, as saying that between 80% and 90% of the time the first candidate on the terna prepared by the nuncio ends up getting the job. This makes the nuncios role often a decisive one.
There would, of course, be more direct papal involvement when it comes to appointments to the major sees places such as New York, Boston, and San Francisco in the USA, Munich and Cologne in Germany, and Paris and Lyons in France, as well as key places in the Third World. And every pope has a special interest in appointments to places such as Milan, Turin, and Bologna in his own back yard.
If you are Jorge Mario Bergoglio, then you naturally have a keen interest in appointments to Buenos Aires and other major dioceses in Argentina, just as Joseph Ratzinger had a special interest in German appointments and Karol Wojtyla in all the key Polish appointments.
The big prizes in Ireland Armagh and Dublin would rarely show on the papal radar, though that was probably not the case in the appointment of Diarmuid Martin to Dublin because of his previous career in the Vatican.
When Connell was appointed to Dublin in 1988, he was plucked from the relative obscurity of the philosophy department in UCD and had virtually no pastoral experience.
Not only was the appointment disastrous, but, in February 2001, John Paul II decided to make him a Cardinal at a time when Rome could hardly claim to be unaware of the scandal of clerical sex abuse in Ireland.
Indeed, on January 28, 2001 in the gap between the announcement from the Vatican of the Red Hat for Dublin and the actual Consistory the Sunday Tribune carried a front page story alongside a large photograph of Connell with the heading Cardinal failed to move abuse priest from parish. Yet the Red Hat went to him.
This was another example of Rome not caring one whit for local feeling or the pastoral implications of its ultra-conservative appointments.
The late Fr Andrew Greeley, the Chicago-based sociologist, in his 2005 book The Making of the Pope, said this about episcopal appointments: The extremely conservative bishops John Paul appointed, usually on curial recommendation, further offended many of the laity and the lower clergy. He rarely engaged in serious consultation with the bishops of the world and listened only to the laity that he knew agreed with him.
As Hans Kung put it in his book Infallible?, new bishops were selected preferably according to two tried and tested principles of sound moral standards and the uncritical loyalty to Rome which is called obedience .
Selecting men who are safe often means choosing mediocrities, candidates who are conformists and assuredly will not rock any Roman boats.
Hebblethwaite once put it bluntly: Bishops have been parachuted down on dioceses about which they know nothing and where they are doomed to unpopularity. The frustration this can cause in the local churches can build up and occasionally boil over.
A recent example of this was the call by Fr Tony Flannery, one of the founder members of the Association of Catholic Priests, for the papal nuncio, Archbishop Charles Browne, to be removed.
Fr Flannery, who was disciplined by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith for views he expressed on aspects of Catholic teaching, said the nuncio was doing great damage to the Irish Church by the policies by which he is appointing bishops.
This is never going to happen, of course; in any case, even if Archbishop Browne were removed he would just be replaced by another Vatican functionary operating on the basis of the same set of instructions from Rome.
The system is the problem; and there is not much likelihood of that being changed, even under a pope as open to institutional reform as Francis. It will only change when a powerful (and wealthy) national church, such as the German church, reclaims its legitimate autonomy when it comes to the appointment of bishops.
In his book, The Making of the Pope, Fr Andrew Greeley asked the pertinent question: Why does the Roman Curia continue to lord it over the resident bishops?
As for the appointment of such bishops, he cited the methods prescribed by two of the most important early popes Leo the Great and Gregory the Great for the election of bishops for all dioceses, Rome included.
These methods were summed up in the succinct Latin dictum Qui praesidet super omnes, ab omnibus eligatur. For those unfamiliar with the mother tongue, that means who presides over all must be chosen by all.
It will go ahead because we need America far, far more than America needs us.
However, had Mr Kenny chosen to travel in the grand style of Saudi Arabias Salman the criticism would be shrill and entirely justified. Despite imposing cutbacks, just like Mr Kenny, the king arrived in Indonesia on Wednesday leading a retinue of about 1,500 people.
Friday, March 3rd, 2017 (1:44 pm) - Score 1,463
The European Commission has released their 2017 Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), which uses data from 2016 to reveal the United Kingdoms progress towards the EUs Digital Agenda goals (e.g. NGA 30Mbps+ broadband for all by 2020). Sadly weve dropped from 6th to 7th place.
On the surface this might seem like bad news but overall the UK continues to more than beat the EU average and we do better than most of the major member states. The good news is that were also particularly strong in the all-important area of digital connectivity, where we rank 6th overall (unchanged from last years report).
The 2010 EU Digital Agenda goals, which among other things aimed to ensure that every home could access a 30Mbps+ capable Next Generation Access (NGA) broadband connection by the year 2020 (plus 50% subscribed to a 100Mbps+ service), actually cover much more than just Internet connectivity but our focus here mostly on infrastructure.
Overall the UK coverage of 30Mbps+ broadband has increased to 92.3% (compared with 76% across the EU), which puts us well ahead of Germany, France, Italy and Spain but behind several other countries. Similarly 4G (Mobile Broadband) coverage reached 93% in the UK, which compares with 84% across the EU.
Meanwhile the European Commission (note: were still full members of the EU for another 2 years or so) has already proposed a new Gigabit Society target for all European households to get a minimum Internet download speed of 100Mbps+ by 2025, with businesses and the public sector being told to expect 1Gbps+ (here).
The ECs proposal is currently still being developed and would not be mandatory, although many EU states are still a long way from achieving the original target and would clearly struggle to be prepared for the latest one.
Andrus Ansip, Vice-President for the Digital Single Market, said: Europe is gradually becoming more digital but many countries need to step up their efforts. All Member States should invest more to fully benefit from the Digital Single Market. We do not want a two-speed digital Europe. We should work together to make the EU a digital world leader.
We should point out that some of the data for this report was collected during mid-2016 and as such it does not represent the most current information, although this is true for all countries in the ranking and so its still a useful gauge. Furthermore some data has been re-calculated since 2016 and we note that the main reason for dropping a place this year is because a few of our closest rivals are improving at a faster pace.
As the report states, The United Kingdom ranks 7th in DESI 2017. While its ranking decreased somewhat over 2016, its score increased due to an improved performance in all domains. In particular, important improvements have been made in NGA subscriptions (Connectivity), Internet use (Human Capital), and Open Data (Digital Public Services). Conversely, use of Electronic Information Sharing, RFID and eInvoices (Integration of Digital Technologies) remains very low.
Weve edited together a general summary of the results below. However readers should be cautious about using any of the chart tools and broadband related data on the EUs Digital Single Market page because most of those are still using the information from last years (old) report. We expect them to be updated before the summer.
The changes everyone expected to come at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are here.
In one sign of the new times, chairman Ajit Pai said this week that no oversight from the FCC was necessary in the AT&T-Time Warner merger. The Hill reports that the FCC will step back because no licenses will be exchanged as part of the $85 million deal. Mignon Clyburn, the only Democratic commissioner, objected.
The deal must be cleared by the Justice Department. The FCC played a much more stringent role in telecommunications mergers and acquisitions during the Obama Administration.
On February 23, the FCC voted to restore the Small Provider Exemption from the Commissions Open Internet rules. CommLaw Monitor reported that the 2-1 party line vote reestablished an exemption that former Chairman Tom Wheeler had allowed to expire.
In 2015, the FCC exempted internet service providers (ISPs) with fewer than 100,000 subscribers from disclosure rules on, according to the story, promotional rates, all fees and/or surcharges, all data caps and allowances, and additional network performance metrics (e.g., packet loss).
Wheeler allowed the exemption to expire last year. The move on February 23 does two things: It reestablishes the exemption for five years and expands the definition of small carrier from 100,000 subscribers to 250,000 subscribers. The new rule is retroactive to January 17.
Another 2-1 party line vote resulted in a stay to one part of privacy rules passed in October, according to Computerworld. The stayed rules would have provided consumers with control on how their data is used:
The rules include the requirement that internet service providers should obtain opt-in consent from consumers to use and share sensitive information such as geolocation and web browsing history, and also give customers the option to opt out from the sharing of non-sensitive information such as email addresses or service tier information.
The sidelined rules included a mandate to use reasonable data security practices and provide breach notifications. They would have gone into effect today, the story says.
Not all the indications of change were actions by the commission. In a speech at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona this week, Chairman Pai called net neutrality a mistake and, according to the report at Engadget, endorsed light touch internet regulation. It is clear that such an approach doesnt include the current set of regulations.
Finally, the FCC list of commissioners may be moving to the right as a group. One of the Democratic commissioners, Jessica Rosenworcel, submitted her resignation at the end of 2016. President Obama re-nominated her before he left open. Variety said that the apparent expectation was that President Trump would pair her nomination with one of a Republican. The pair would go through the confirmation process in tandem. President Trump has not re-nominated her. That, the story says:
has led to speculation that he would put forward another Republican and perhaps an independent or other Democrat more favorable to administration policy. In the past, the White House has deferred to Senate leadership in the selection of nominees from the opposing party. Democrats have already been vowing to push back if the administration tries to buck that tradition.
None of these moves (with the possible exception of not re-nominating Rosenworcel) is a surprise. Taken together, however, they show how quickly and decisively the new administration is setting a new course.
Carl Weinschenk covers telecom for IT Business Edge. He writes about wireless technology, disaster recovery/business continuity, cellular services, the Internet of Things, machine-to-machine communications and other emerging technologies and platforms. He also covers net neutrality and related regulatory issues. Weinschenk has written about the phone companies, cable operators and related companies for decades and is senior editor of Broadband Technology Report. He can be reached at [email protected] and via twitter at @DailyMusicBrk.
According to a recent report released by Hewlett-Packard Enterprise, a large majority of security operations centers, or SOCs, have not attained the requisite level of maturity to enable them to adequately protect their organizations against cyberattacks.
HPEs State of Security Operations Report 2017, the fourth annual assessment of its kind, found that 82 percent of SOCs are falling below target maturity levels, due in large part to difficulties in attracting and retaining skilled IT security talent. I had the opportunity to discuss the report with Chandra Rangan, vice president of product marketing for HPE Software, who indicated that getting SOCs to where they need to be is a monumental task:
Security operations really started off as a means for compliance, 15 years back. With everything thats happened since the Target breach, more and more security operations are getting serious about protecting the organization as their primary goal not just compliance. That shift is tough to make, because its like setting up an ERP system from scratch, with all the processes and everything thats involved thats kind of what youre looking at. To do a decent job of protecting the organization, youve got to start with the business side: What are the real objectives? Where is the important data? What am I trying to protect? What is the risk that Im willing to take on as an organization? Thats not a security operations role thats a business role. And then security operations needs to work with IT to collect the data; build use cases to understand whats happening across all of these data sets; put a very robust process in place to be able to monitor and investigate; and then hire the right analysts with the right skillsets who can do that.
One of the findings that came out of the report was that SOC maturity decreases with hunt-only programs, and that programs that focus solely on hunt teams have an adverse effect. I asked Rangan to what he would attribute the fact that this approach has been adopted as widely as it has, and he explained it this way:
These arent the sophisticated security operations centers these are maybe five or eight people, maybe a couple of folks who are part-time, and they need to have some sort of security operation. So what do they start with? They start with the network guy finding a problem, or they find a bunch of infected PCs. They need an answer quickly, so you have your few precious security analysts trying to firefight, and go back and investigate what has already happened. And it becomes a never-ending cycle. Once you solve one of these problems, you feel like a hero, and it perpetuates itself. Once you get in that mode, in the short term you feel great you feel youre driving value. But really what is happening is, youre finding issues after the fact youre not proactively protecting the organization. It is those security operations centers that were not very mature to start with, and were trying to get them to a higher level of maturity trying to staff up without falling into the trap of firefighting mode. There are quite a few euphemistically termed security operations groups who are not really doing security operations theyre doing hunting.
I asked Rangan if HPE learned anything from the report that has prompted it to make any internal changes in terms of mitigating its own risk. He opted to focus his response more on HPEs security operations prowess:
We actually do have one of the most sophisticated security operations on the planet. In fact, we have two security operations teams. One manages HPEs own security posture we have a huge footprint, and they do it with a very small team. They do it with tens of people, not hundreds. They are just phenomenally effective, because they have done a lot of automation. We are actually very, very efficient internally. And we have a second security operations team that does managed security services. It has more than 10 security operations centers globally. These security operations that we have internally are part and parcel of the assessments that we do. We actually learn from them, and we give back, as well.
In the context of that response, I brought up the well-publicized incident in October, in which the United States Navy announced that the names and Social Security numbers of 134,000 current and former service members were accessed as the result of the compromise of the laptop of an HPE employee. I asked Rangan what lessons HPE has learned from that incident. He thanked me for bringing it up, but said he wasnt the right person to talk about that topic. He steered me to an HPE spokesperson who could put me in touch with the right people, but the spokesperson was only able to provide the following statement from HPE:
The security and privacy of our clients is a top priority for Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE). This event has been reported to the Navy and because this is an ongoing investigation, HPE will not be commenting further out of respect for the privacy of our Navy personnel.
That was a shame, because The Navy Times had reported that the Navy was pressing HPE to pay for credit monitoring services for sailors affected by the data breach, and I was eager to find out if that issue had been resolved. My hope is that by the time HPE comes out with its next State of Security Operations Report 2018, it will have been able to share some lessons learned from this incident.
A contributing writer on IT management and career topics with IT Business Edge since 2009, Don Tennant began his technology journalism career in 1990 in Hong Kong, where he served as editor of the Hong Kong edition of Computerworld. After returning to the U.S. in 2000, he became Editor in Chief of the U.S. edition of Computerworld, and later assumed the editorial directorship of Computerworld and InfoWorld. Don was presented with the 2007 Timothy White Award for Editorial Integrity by American Business Media, and he is a recipient of the Jesse H. Neal National Business Journalism Award for editorial excellence in news coverage. Follow him on Twitter @dontennant.
For fans of "Star Wars," the origin of the Knights of Ren is shrouded with mystery. They briefly showed up in "The Force Awakens" but that's all. There were no introductions or explanations about where they came from. However, there are recent "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" spoilers that might explain their mysterious origins.
Their Origin Might Have Been Revealed In Some "Star Wars" Books
Some inquisitive and enterprising fans of "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" might have found some clues about where the Knights of Ren came from. They say that it may have been revealed already in a series of "Star Wars" related books. Fans would recall that these Knights briefly appeared in Rey's vision when she picked up Luke's lightsaber.
"Aftermath" Might Have Revealed Their Origin
Furthermore, these fans of "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" believe that the Knights of Ren could have a connection with the Acolytes of the Beyond. This latter group is featured in the new book "Aftermath," a post-"Return of the Jedi" trilogy. It tells about the war between the remnants of the Empire and the New Republic. The title of the last book in this trilogy is "Aftermath: Empire's End."
The Acolytes Of The Beyond Might Be Their Progenitors
The Acolytes are led by Yupe Tashu, the former advisor of the Emperor. One of his objectives is to find the lightsaber of Darth Vader. Fans of "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" suggest that as they were retrieving Sith artifacts, they saw visions of the ancient Sith lords and the dark side. Members of this group also love to wear masks just like Kylo Ren and Darth Vader. Did the Acolytes spawn the Knights of Ren?
J.J. Abrams Said Hamill Should Win An Oscar For His Work In "The Last Jedi"
In a related note, J.J. Abrams, the director of episode 7 is predicting that Mark Hamill might win the Oscar for his role in "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." Abrams, who is also the Executive Producer of episode 8 has all praises to the actor. In his Oscar Wilde Awards speech, he said that Mark Hamill deserves to win an Oscar for his work in episode 8. He added that they will be disappointed if he wouldn't.
It seems like Oprah Winfrey is finally reconsidering to run for U.S. president in the next election race. The notion was brought up just recently when she went on Bloombergs The David Rubenstein Show: Peer-to-Peer Conversations. Probably everyone has been begging her to run for years now and their wish might just come true.
Oprah Winfrey Rethinks Possibility of Running for President
The Bloomberg show premiered its second season with Oprah Winfrey opening to an idea that everybody will probably welcome. It was brought up that if Oprah decided to run, she would most likely get elected because of her influence and immense popularity. As soon as the word was out, a lot has already expressed their support for her and would even back her up in the next presidential race against Donald Trump.
The American talk show host and philanthropist admitted that she is actually reconsidering it now because it turns out, she doesnt even need experience in governing to be elected president of the United States. This was the case with the current U.S. president. Trump was elected into office without having any solid political background. He expressed his interest in running for president for several years and even as governor of New York but he never did.
President Oprah Winfrey Sounds And Looks Good
Many important figures have asked, begged even, for Oprah to run for president but she never did as she never thought of its possibility. She is one of the most influential people and was even dubbed as the most powerful woman in the world. Her show, The Oprah Winfrey Show is one of the longest-running shows in history and is the highest rated talk show in America, reaching more than 4,000 episodes and attracting millions of loyal viewers all over the world.
But Oprah Winfrey didnt get to be one of the most powerful and influential person in the world by simply being on TV but because she has admirable qualities that make her a great leader. Aside from dreaming big and making it happen, she values community and ensures that people can relate to her just like the way she understands others and their situations. As a humanitarian, she is open about her principles on justice, education, and more. Given her past, she leads by example and she makes sure to convey her visions and ideals to continuously inspire people and give hope.
Yahoo has been through a whirlwind of events in the past years. The company has been hacked multiple times and it has also gone through a roller coaster ride with Verizon. The two companies' supposed merger is no longer big news but Verizon had to reduce its offer multiple times due to the discovered breaches.
Yahoo Executives Face Consequences
Now, things are getting more intense as Yahoo's top lawyer resigns from the company and Yahoo's CEO has to redistribute her own bonus. This is following the company's internal investigations regarding the recorded hacks. As per Business Insider, Yahoo conducted an internal investigation and has led to the conclusion that its executives did not handle the security breaches properly. This certain breach resulted in the theft of users' information that includes their names, phone numbers and even dates of birth.
Just this Wednesday, Yahoo has disclosed on its yearly report that the company could be facing criminal penalties due to the incident. Apparently, several government agencies are now looking into the matter. Additionally, Yahoo is already facing 43 putative consumer class action lawsuits in relation to the hackings.
Yahoo CEO Surrenders Own Bonus
As a result to all these, Marissa Mayer, Yahoo's CEO, did not get her 2016 bonus amounting to up to $2 million. On top of that, she voluntarily surrenders her 2017 bonus alongside her approximately $12 million equity grants. This money will be redistributed to Yahoo employees. Ronald Bell, on the other hand, terminated his job as Yahoo's general counsel.
Yahoo's Mishandling Of Hacking Incidents
The problem with Yahoo's handling of the security breaches was that its executives did not properly investigate the attacks. Recode said that Mayer actually did mean to run such loose security ship. Also, the company's security department has known of the hacks in 2015 and 2016 but the Yahoo did not disclose it to the public immediately. Nevertheless, the findings also clarified that there was no intentional suppression of relevant information. This means that Yahoo did not maliciously hide the breaches both from the users and Verizon. The company even had to suffer the consequences of Verizon reducing its offer by hundreds of millions.
Last Sunday, Google has announced that the Google Assistant will be rolled out to Android handsets "this week." Now, the company has made another announcement and confirmed that the Google Assistant will be arriving today.
The Google Assistant Is Now Available
The Google Assistant will be made available to Android handsets that run on Android Marshmallow and Nougat only. Based on the recent news, it will be launched in the United States followed by Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Germany will have it as well, for the German speaker. There were also reports suggesting that the Android Wear 2 will also get the feature, and TVs and cars will follow.
Where To Get The Google Assistant
In case you're wondering on how to get the Google Assistant and if there will be some kind of "special tasks" needed in order to get it, there isn't any. Updating the Google Play Services will be the only step required and the Google Assistant will come to you. You can even disable the Google Assistant if you want to do so.
Capabilities Of The Google Assistant
According to an article at Tech Crunch, the Google Assistant was first unveiled at last year's Google I/O conference where it became a flagship feature on the Google Pixel phones. What makes it slightly more powerful is the fact that there is a lot of back-and-forth dialogue that users can do when interacting with the Google Assistant, something that makes it more human compared to some of the virtual assistants available today.
Just like any other virtual assistants, it is capable of various tasks. Simply summon it by saying, "OK Google," then followed by a command it will do kinds of stuff, like setting reminders, taking photos, assist with translations, operating smart home devices, and much more.
The Google Assistant has third-party integrations called "Actions" which is the company's version of Alexa skills. In Actions, it will connect the Google Assistant to a larger app ecosystem.
Facebook is adding more suicide prevention tools on its live-stream video this month. The move has been decided after a series of suicide incidents took place on live video. Included in the new self-harm prevention tools are options for people to report if someone might harm themselves while broadcasting on Facebook Live.
Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook have said that he created the popular social media platform to help people connect to each other. On Wednesday, the company stated its modified stand about helping people in distress through personal connection, such as preventing the suicide of someone on Facebook. The company have also said that it's in a "unique position" to help those who have mental health issues.
So now, people watching a Facebook Live broadcast will be able use the suicide prevention tools by reporting the video. Facebook can reach out to emergency workers if the person is in imminent danger. Additionally, the person live-streaming will also be provided a set of resources pop up on their phone screen, so they can contact a friend or a helpline, the ABC News reports.
Facebook offers these options by using algorithms, trained to report data from the networks two billion users. The artificial intelligence is constantly on the lookout for warning signs in content that users post, as well as replies that are received. Once a red flag is raised, a Facebook team is alerted and can contact the user so that help may be offered, the Forbes reports.
Facebook's suicide prevention team is connected with charities and helplines to develop methods for putting those at risk instantly in contact with an advisor. The social network began monitoring suicidal behavior a decade ago. However, this marks the first involvement of AI (or machine learning) in the process since it has previously only relied on its user base in flagging up potentially dangerous situations.
When Honda launched the 2017 CR-V last year, the automaker expected it to be the top seller in its segment. The automaker's hopes were certainly not disappointed as the 2017 Honda CR-V has picked up its pace in sales and gained a serious momentum in the month of February leading up to March.
2017 Honda CR-V: Picking Up The Pace
According to a report, Honda models such as the Accord and Civic have seen decline in sales by 9.0 and 2.4 percent respectively. However, things are different with the 2017 Honda CR-V as it gained a double-digit sales increase for the second consecutive month of the year. It was mentioned that Honda was able to sell a total of 31,896 units in February and this is equivalent to 26.3 percent increase from its sales during the same month of the previous year.
2017 Honda CR-V: Hitting The Sweet Spot
Following the success of the 2017 Honda CR-V, the Japanese automaker's expectations have already been exceeded. "It's clearly hitting a sweet spot in the market and complemented by HR-V at the entry level," said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of the Honda division. The 2017 Honda CR-V is expected to carry the momentum over to the following months.
2017 Honda CR-V: Carrying The Momentum For The Next Month
According to Automotive News, the 2017 Honda CR-V is not the only one that was able to set the pace for the automaker during the previous month. It was mentioned that the light-truck variants of the Japanese automaker has also seen an increase of 12 percent in sales that makes up for the 6.9 percent decline in the car segment. In total, Honda has been able to sell a total of 63,989 units to date.
2017 Honda CR-V: Trims And Prices
The 2017 Honda CR-V is considered to be one of the most affordable and reliable compact SUVs in the market and is available in three trim levels. The 2017 Honda CR-V has a price of $24,925 for the base trim LX as reported. This is followed by $25,575 and $33,275 for the EX and Touring trims respectively.
In the past, scientists have pinpointed cats, or cat litter, as the main reason for schizophrenia. They think that having pet cats might increase a kid's risk of developing schizophrenia. However, a growing field of research which focuses on the links between owning a cat and mental health disorders have found that there is no such link.
Initially thought to be the culprit for schizophrenia, the cat-borne parasite that causes toxoplasmosis have previously gained attention, making scientists warn pregnant women to stay away from cat poo. Now, a new study of about 5,000 children in Britain finds no evidence that cat ownership during gestation or childhood is associated with psychotic experiences. The study, published in the journal Psychological Medicine, is the latest research that have debunked previously held beliefs that are based on correlations, but not concrete conclusions, about cats making people crazy.
Researchers are now saying that cat ownership does not cause schizophrenia. "Our findings should reassure people that owning a cat in pregnancy or childhood is not related to later risk of psychotic symptoms," co-author James Kirkbride, a psychiatric epidemiologist at University College London, says. The infectious bacteria that has been thought to cause the mental health disorder, Toxoplasma gondii, is hardly well understood, the Daily Journal reports.
In the 1970s, when psychiatrist E. Fuller Torrey looked into previously published research, he found studies that show schizophrenics had higher toxoplasma antibody levels than people without the mental illness. The theory about schizophrenia-causing cats stuck. Plenty of past researchers even support it, the Wired reports.
However, establishing cat poop as the source for schizophrenia is incredibly difficult. The disease rarely has been reported, and scientists still dont know a lot about its biological, or genetic, roots. Therefore, you can keep your cat and stop worrying if it can make others go crazy.
Motorola has been owned by Lenovo for some time now and so far, the "Motorola" phone lineup is still present in the smartphone market. However, last year, Lenovo mentioned that they are eventually getting rid of the "Motorola" name. The company said that they will instead go by the "Moto by Lenovo" moniker for their smartphone lineup. Needless to say, the company has changed its mind and Motorola will keep its name as is.
Motorola Branding By Lenovo
As it turns out, the company was in a confused stage when they shared their plan to get rid of the Motorola branding. Aymar de Lencquesaing, Chairman and President of Motorola, says that they just finished transforming themselves last year. Now, de Lencquesaing shares that they have a clearer vision as to how they want to present themselves. With that, the Motorola branding won't be phased out anytime soon.
The Chairman says that they will be reinvigorating their most forward-looking product which is the Moto Z. This phone brings the modular concept and Moto Mods to the market and makes a very valid option to the people who love the idea of Mods. De Lencquesaing says that Moto Z will soon have an expanded scope and will come to more carriers in the US.
Lenovo To Motorola Shifting
As per CNET, Lenovo will soon migrate to the Motorola brand in all its markets. However, de Lencquesaing says that the timing will have to depend on each of the regions' demand. For instance, in Brazil, Motorola is going strong as a brand. In Russia on the other hand, Lenovo performs better in the market.
Chief Marketing Officer of the company, Jan Huckfeldt, says that it was foolish to throw the Motorola name overboard. His plan is to use the original DNA of the brand and bring Motorola back to being a premium smartphone name. In the US, Huckfeldt hopes that expanding the phones' distribution will do the trick. He proclaims that all that the company needs is 12 months and they'll be able to re-introduce the new Motorola into the market.
A new report from South Korea said that the production of the Galaxy S8 is now ramping up. It has already been confirmed that the long awaited Samsung flagship will be made official at the end of this month. As per the new report, Samsung expects a healthy demand for its new phones. This is why more than 12 million units are being produced and aimed to finish before April ends.
Twelve Million Galaxy S8 Units Coming Up
As per Sam Mobile, 4.7 million Galaxy S8 units will be produced this March alone. In April, 7.8 million more will be added to the stocks. Past reports have already mentioned Samsung's plans to exceed 10 million Galaxy S8 units and the new report backs this up. It was said that the mass production of the devices are being done in Samsung's facility in Vietnam.
Samsung's 2017 Smartphone Plans
Phone Arena said that Samsung is prepping up for a global launch of the Galaxy S8 series. It was said that the company will sell the new flagship phones in most of its target markets all at the same time. This means no more waiting for South Korea's demand to slow down before other countries can get their units. Nevertheless, there's still no clarity as to whether or not Samsung prioritized one S8 model over the other in terms of production quantity, but there have been past reports saying that the S8 Plus will likely be more in-demand than the smaller S8 model.
Do take note however, that Samsung hasn't confirmed the above figures. The company doesn't usually share details regarding production schedules. The only certain thing right now is that Samsung will finally unveil the Galaxy S8 on March 29 after skipping its usual MWC launch. This phone series will be Samsung's only flagship phones for 2017 up until the new Galaxy Note series gets released in H2 of the year.
The latest chapter of One Piece manga has just unveiled an unexpected plot twist. With the Straw Hats Pirates out to rescue Sanji and his family, Jinbe proposes something that Luffy cant refuse. Meanwhile, the anime will be heading on to a new arc in a few weeks.
One Piece Chapter 857 Spoilers: Luffy Turns To Gang Benge For Help
Luffy and Sanji are stranded but they're able to communicate with the others through a mirror. Sanji has not decided to return to the crew yet. Disappointed, the Straw Hats Pirates tries to convince Sanji to come back by rescuing his family. Sanji has been forced to marry one of Big Moms daughters while his family is being held, hostage.
Jinbe revealed that the wedding was only a plot to get all the Vinsmokes together so Big Mom can kill them off and claim Germa. She had always wanted the kingdom because it had the strongest army. Despite being outnumbered, the Straw Hats decide to fight Big Mom. Jinbe said they would be able to fight one of the Yonkos with the help of Gang Benge.
One Piece Chapter 858 Predictions: Gang Benge Helps, Vinsmokes Saved, But Will Luffy Live?
After Jinbe told Luffy about the proposal to team up with Gang Benge, Luffy reconsiders and agrees to meet with them. It's most likely that Luffy will team up with Gang Benge, since the latter, whos Big Moms ally, was also in charge of the weddings security, which is an advantage for them. With that, the Vinsmokes will be saved and the wedding will be called off.
Though the fight against Big Mom will be difficult, Luffy must also be on guard that Gang Benge will not betray him, too. Luffy, who detests Benges doings will probably stop him from killing Big Mom and this will give Benge the reason to target Luffy. Benge's infamous for killing leaders of every organization out of leisure. But given Eiichiro Odas reputation, anything can happen.
One Piece Anime Enters Supernova Arc
The anime series of will be entering a new arc on March 19 and it will focus on the Supernovas. The story will be about the young pirates, Luffy and Sanji as they travel to save Sanji and his family. The new arc will be an original story and will introduce new characters, who will likely be villains.
The new characters are Grant, Bonam, Sappa, and Vice-Admiral Prodi. One notable thing about the Supernova Arc is that Luffy is wearing a marines coat, which is unlikely of him since he is a pirate. One Piece will end the Zou Arc after two more episodes.
BARCELONA -- Venerable smartphone brands Motorola, Nokia and BlackBerry got new life at Mobile World Congress 2017, but that was primarily due to the influence of Chinese and Finnish manufacturers that have licensed the names.
One new Android smartphone, the BlackBerry KEYone, was launched by TCL Communication, based in Huizhou, China. The phone has both a touchscreen and a physical keyboard, with 52 keys that can be used as shortcuts to find apps and functions. It goes on sale in April for $549.
HMD Global of Espoo, Finland, launched three budget Android phones under the Nokia brand the Nokia 3, 5 and 6, starting at $147 with screens ranging from 5 inches to 5.5 inches in size. A 2000 classic handset was revised the Nokia 3310 but with a slimmer size and a color screen.
[ See Computerworlds roundup of Mobile World Congress. ]
Chinese vendor Lenovo announced the Moto G5 and G5 Plus with prices starting at $178. Only the G5 Plus will be sold in the U.S. It will be available on Motorolas website for $229 for the 16GB version.
The business model for the Lenovo- and HMD-throwback branded phones seems to be to gain market share with low-cost devices, much as Huawei of Shenzhen, China, has done for years, said Kevin Burden, an analyst at 451 Research. Huawei pursued a model of introducing low cost phones for years, and has now grown to become the third-largest phone maker in the world. In the U.S. however, the company is in 10th place, according to market research firm IDC.
In addition to its low-cost approach, Huawei in January announced the Mate 9 smartphone at a pricey $600; and at MWC launched the P10 and P10 Plus featuring Leica camera optics. The P10 starts at 650 ($687) with 64GB of storage. Neither will be sold in the U.S., but could be purchased unlocked. They have radio bands that work with some U.S. carriers.
[ To comment on this story, visit Computerworld's Facebook page. ]
Burden said it will be difficult for Huawei to be a challenger to Apple and Samsung in the U.S. smartphone market any time soon. However, he said Huawei could reach the top market share globally in a few years, given its aggressive marketing, design and manufacturing approach.
Amazon Web Services said today its outage earlier this week that affected major websites and apps was caused by human error.
Sites including Netflix, Reddit and the Associated Press struggled for hours on Tuesday -- all because of a simple typo.
"While we are proud of our long track record of availability with Amazon S3, we know how critical this service is to our customers, their applications and end users, and their businesses," the company wrote in an online message. "We will do everything we can to learn from this event and use it to improve our availability even further."
On Tuesday morning, AWS reported on its Service Health Dashboard that it was having problems with its S3, or Simple Storage Service, in its data centers located in northern Virginia.
The issue, which even affected the AWS dashboard, was not cleared up until about 5 p.m. ET that day.
Now, AWS is offering an explanation of what happened.
"The Amazon Simple Storage Service (S3) team was debugging an issue causing the S3 billing system to progress more slowly than expected," the company noted. "At [12:37 p.m. ET], an authorized S3 team member using an established playbook executed a command which was intended to remove a small number of servers for one of the S3 subsystems that is used by the S3 billing process.
[ To comment on this story, visit Computerworld's Facebook page. ]
"Unfortunately, one of the inputs to the command was entered incorrectly and a larger set of servers was removed than intended," the message added.
Zeus Kerravala, an analyst with ZK Research, said it's not surprising that such a major issue was caused by human error.
"My research shows that 37% of IT outages are from human error," he said. "It's scary and shows that despite so many advancements in technology, we are still largely beholden to manual processes. This is an example of where better automation and machine learning could help."
AWS noted in its online message today that its engineers have learned from the outage Tuesday and are making changes to try to keep it from happening again.
"While removal of capacity is a key operational practice, in this instance, the tool used allowed too much capacity to be removed too quickly," the company explained. "We have modified this tool to remove capacity more slowly and added safeguards to prevent capacity from being removed when it will take any subsystem below its minimum required capacity level."
That, according to AWS, should prevent an incorrect input from triggering another outage.
The company also noted that engineers are auditing other operational tools to ensure they have similar safety checks.
"We will also make changes to improve the recovery time of key S3 subsystems," AWS noted. "We employ multiple techniques to allow our services to recover from any failure quickly."
Patrick Moorhead, an analyst with Moor Insights & Strategy, said he thinksS this incident will give AWS a black eye in the short term.
"It's incredible to think that one mistake by one person on one command can take down millions of users," he said. "People should expect more from AWS... This incident will make enterprises think twice about moving certain workloads and apps to the public cloud and motivate them to look closely at the private cloud."
For his part, Kerravala said he expects cloud rivals Google and Microsoft to hop on this AWS incident and try to drive any lost business their way.
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.
Most people wish that they could go back in time to share some much-needed advice with their younger selves just to make things a bit better. Even Bill Gates, who is one of the most successful industry leaders in the whole world, has a thing or two to say to his 19-year-old self.
On his fifth Reddit Ask Me Anything session earlier this week, the 61-year-old was asked this question.
If you could give 19-year-old Bill Gates some advice, what would it be?
The Microsoft co-founder said that he wishes he could tell his younger self that there are various ways that a person can be smart and that IQ isnt as important as he thought it was.
I would explain that smartness is not single dimensional and not quite as important as I thought it was back then, he said.
Gates also wishes that he could encourage teenage Bill to get out and travel more.
I would say you might explore the developing world before you get into your forties, he continued. Nowadays, Gates and his wife, Melinda, often travel the world to give foreign aid to poor countries through their foundation.
Lastly, the father-of-three said that he wishes he was less awkward back then.
I wasnt very good socially back then but I am not sure there is advice that would fix that, said Gates. Maybe I had to be awkward and just grow up
Apart from being awkward, it appears that the philanthropist was also quite troublesome in his youth. Last year, Herald Scotland reported that Gates revealed how he was disruptive as a teenager, forcing his parents to send him to a psychologist.
But mostly, Gates has been passionate about computers since he was a young boy. He discovered his love of computers by writing a computer code for a version of tic-tac-toe when he attended the prestigious Lakeside prep school in Seattle, according to Business Insider.
By high school, Gates and fellow student, Paul Allen, who also happens to be his Microsoft co-founder, went into business for the first time. When Gates was 15, the two created Traf-O-Data, a tool for tracking traffic flow in the area.
Gates attended Harvard University but dropped out in 1975 to devote his time to Microsoft. Now, Gates is one of the wealthiest men in the world, and according to reports, is set to become the worlds first trillionaire within 25 years.
For more, check out Jobs & Hires report on how Bill Gates stays incognito in public.
Every week, it appears that people in different parts of the world experience getting hacked in one way or another. While you think that this could never happen to you, it is completely possible as hackers have become even better at stealing information.
Robert Herjavec, founder and CEO of cybersecurity firm Herjavec Group, and star of ABCs Shark Tank told CNBC that most people assume that theyre safe from being hacked.
People assume that theyre exempt from the risks of cybersecurity, said Herjavec. Similarly, businesses assume it will never happen to them.
Herjavec says that in todays uncertain times, all of us can be potentially targeted by hackers as they use identity information, passwords, corporate IP secrets, and payment information for political and financial gain.
No matter what it is, theyre either putting it up for sale on the deep dark web, holding files for ransom, or leveraging the data to influence markets, politics, and business, added the 54-year-old.
However, there are ways that you can decrease the chance of a hacker stealing your information. Herjavec said that one way to do this is to avoid using public wi-fi. The entrepreneur said that one should never do personal banking in a public place. Moreover, financial transactions shouldnt be done at all on public wi-fi.
The Shark Tank star also notes that we should all look for the "https://" when doing anything financial as that connection meets the basic SSL certification level of encrypted security.
Herjavec also said that people shouldnt open emails or attachments from strangers. This means that if you get an email from the prince of Nigeria who wants to give you money, be educated and skeptical.
Hackers are also evolving phishing emails to make it seem like they are coming from someone you know, he said. Dont input any personal information on links from emails youre not sure about.
Apart from Herjavecs tips, another way to avoid getting hacked is to change your passwords. Dont be lazy and use 123456 or password as your password, and never use your birthday as a password. To protect yourself, ensure that your password has more than eight characters, has a combination of letters and numbers, and never use one password for all of your accounts. You can also use an easily remembered sentence as a password rather than a single word.
For more, check out Jobs & Hires report on the toy company that leaked personal information of over half a million customers.
New Zealand is currently on the radar of some of the wealthiest people in the world. According to reports, tech billionaires are investing in real estate in the country due to its healthy environment and scenic views.
If youre looking to move to New Zealand country but you dont have the funds, then this is the right time to do so as the tech industry in Wellington is trying to recruit tech experts from all over the world to their community. Moreover, the company is offering a free trip if you prove that youre right for the job and deserve an interview.
According to Good Housekeeping, LookSee Wellington is calling this opportunity as a global talent attraction program, and 100 potential recruits will be invited to stay in the country for free. All you have to do is prove that you can serve as a creative director, solution architect, software developer, product manager, analyst, or digital strategist to get a free ticket to New Zealand.
The application process starts by registering online with LookSee Wellington and creating a profile. Wellington employees will review all applications and nominate their chosen candidates. Candidates with the highest nominations are selected to fly to Wellington.
After that, travel details and itineraries are confirmed, and candidates will fly to Wellington to meet with employers. Job offers are made to successful candidates, and if you get an offer, you get to move into the community.
Once youve settled in Wellington, be prepared to take in the sights, sounds, and cuisine of the tech community. There are over 750 bars, restaurants, and cafes in the areasaid to be more per capita than New York City. You also get to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
Theres no lack of culture as well as Wellington is home to over 55 galleries and museums. Most of all, you get to experience the countrys great weather as the community enjoys around 2,000 hours of sunshine each year.
For more information, visit the LookSee Wellington website here.
For more, check out Jobs & Hires report on the hardest interview questions you might be asked.
South Korean appliance maker LG Electronics Inc. will be spending millions of dollars in a new factory in the United States. The announcement comes on the heels of President Donald Trump's threat to impose heavy taxes on products made outside of the country.
The International Business Times reported that LG set aside $250 million to build a manufacturing facility in the state of Tennessee in the United States. The new factory will be used for the production of washing machines that have technologies that are state of the art.
Producing washing machines is just the starting point for the manufacturing facility. LG has plans to expand the scope of the Tennessee factory to other appliances as well.
LG has picked Tennessee as the location of the manufacturing facility because the state has offered to give it an attractive package, according to a report by Salon. Details of the package remain under tight wraps because the South Korean appliance maker and the state government of Tennessee have not finalized the agreement yet.
However, the state government might offer monetary and other forms of support in order for the project to push through. The manufacturing facility is expected to create jobs in the state, so the project could get support when it comes to improving construction and infrastructure, as well as hiring.
Bill Haslam, governor of Tennessee, welcomed LG's decision to build the manufacturing facility in the state. He sees the action as an acknowledgment and expression of confidence that the state is friendly to businesses.
Aside from the Tennessee project, LG is also planning to create thousands of jobs in New Jersey with the construction of a building. The project will cost $300 million.
Jobs & Hire previously reported that the South Korean appliance maker is working on its LG G Pad III 10.1.
LONG BEACH, California International Longshoremens Association president Harold Daggett urged US East and Gulf coast dockworkers to heed their contracts no-strike clause and avoid unauthorized work stoppages for a Washington protest.
In a statement issued at the opening session of the JOCs 17th annual Trans-Pacific Maritime Conference, Daggett said, I strongly urge all ILA members not to engage in any work stoppage or any other violations of our current master contract.
Importers and exporters had expressed concern about talk of a one-day coastwide work stoppage for a Washington march to protest what the union claims is state-level government interference in collective bargaining.
The planned protest was aimed at the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor, the anticrime agency that oversees dockworker hiring in the Port of New York and New Jersey, and at the employment of non-union state employees for dockworker jobs at state-owned South Atlantic ports.
Daggett said the ILA will seek emergency meetings with members of Congress to address ILA concerns he said had reached a boiling point. No dates have been set for the meetings.
We hear your anger, we hear your frustration, and we intend to address it, Daggett said in a statement to ILA members. With a delegation of ILA leaders, I will be heading to Washington to seek help for our industry from Congress.
Meanwhile, he urged ILA members to stay on the job. Let the leadership of the ILA meet with Congress in Washington. I am confident Congress will understand the urgency of our issues and help us resolve any and all problems.
After talk of a coastwide work stoppage following informal meetings this month between ILA and employer representatives, United States Maritime Alliance reminded the union of its no-strike clause and warned, If the ILA engages in any unilateral walkout, USMX will enforce the contractual rights of its members to the fullest.
The work-stoppage talk cast a cloud over the impending start of formal negotiations between the ILA and USMX on a new Maine-to-Texas master contract to replace the one that expires Sept. 30, 2018.
Contract bargaining is expected to begin soon after Daggett asks union locals to elect more than 150 wage-scale delegates who will be present for the negotiations.
Top issues in the next negotiations are expected to include technology and work jurisdiction. Several ILA local leaders also have called for creation of a coastwide plan to shore up underfunded pension plans, which are negotiated port-by-port.
The union hasnt had a coastwide strike since 1977 but came close to one during the last negotiations. The current six-year agreement was settled after repeated strike threats, two extensions, and help from a federal mediator.
Contact Joseph Bonney at joseph.bonney@ihsmarkit.com and follow him on Twitter: @JosephBonney.
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"Abundant Acreage Available," a drama that was filmed in East Bend, will have its world premiere in April at the Tribeca Film Festival, festival organizers announced Thursday.
The movie was written and directed by local filmmaker Angus MacLachlan, who is an alumnus of the UNC School of the Arts.
"It's fantastic to return to Tribeca after 2014's 'Goodbye To All That,'" MacLachlan said. "I'm really looking forward to the whole experience."
The 2017 Tribeca Film Festival will run April 19 to 30 in New York.
"Acreage" revolves around siblings settling their father's estate, a tobacco farm in East Bend. They meet three aging brothers with a connection to the land. The cast includes Amy Ryan, Terry Kinney and Max Gail. Martin Scorsese is an executive producer on the film.
WASHINGTON President Trump addressed Congress on Tuesday night.
Or was it the state Duma?
And how can you tell the difference?
Trump uttered some 5,000 words and spoke for 60 minutes, but not one of those words was Russia, and not one of those minutes was devoted to the so-far successful effort by our geopolitical adversary to undermine American democracy.
The FBI and intelligence community have unanimously charged that Vladimir Putins government interfered in the U.S. elections in its successful attempt to get Trump elected. Ties between Trump and his team and Russia have been well established, right up through contacts with the Russian ambassador during the transition that led to the resignation of Trumps national security adviser, Michael Flynn all while Trump has promised a friendly new approach to Russia.
It was hard to ignore this elephant, even in a room as large as the House chamber. And yet Trump excised it, like Trotsky from Soviet photos.
Putin could not have done better nor could he have appointed better men to investigate Russias interference in the U.S. election than those now charged with doing it.
Consider Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.), chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and head of the House investigation into Russia.
Last Friday, The Washington Post reported that Nunes participated in a White House-led effort to knock down a New York Times story asserting the Trump campaign had contacts with Russian intelligence. On Saturday, Nunes said at a forum in California that Flynn, who was pushed out over the Russia controversy, is an American hero, and he was doing his job. On Monday, Nunes, the man responsible for overseeing the Houses probe into the Russia matter, assembled reporters and declared: The way it sounds to me is its been looked into and theres no evidence of anything. Of contacts between Russia and Trump lieutenants, he said, What Ive been told ... by many folks is that theres nothing there.
Nunes even offered Trump and Flynn an alibi, saying they were so busy that Trump couldnt have possibly directed Flynn to call the Russian ambassador to talk about sanctions. And Nunes said a special prosecutor should be called in only if serious crimes have been committed. ... But at this point, we dont have that.
It was a trip through the looking glass: The very purpose of an investigation is to determine whether crimes have been committed; if you have proof, you dont need an investigation.
Nunes, who served on Trumps transition committee, has already said executive privilege prevents him from examining discussions between Trump and Flynn. And Nunes echoed Trumps claim that the real scandal isnt about contacts with Russia but about the unauthorized leaks about such contacts.
And this man is supposed to lead an impartial investigation? You might as well ask the Kremlin to conduct one.
You dont need to be a partisan Democrat to know that, as former president George W. Bush told NBC, we all need answers on Trumps Russia ties. But the congressional Republicans leading the investigation have already declared their partiality. Richard Burr (R-N.C.), chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, also participated in the White House campaign to debunk the Times report.
During the previous administration, seven congressional committees issued eight reports on the Benghazi affair and that was before the two-year Select Committee investigation concluded. Now we have the White House pressuring the FBI and senior intelligence officials to debunk allegations against Trump.
So where are these crack investigators now?
Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah), chairman of the House Oversight Committee, has offered a bevy of excuses: He doesnt need to probe the Flynn affair because its taking care of itself; other panels could better protect sources and methods; he didnt want to pry into the private systems of a political party; and he wont personally target the president.
The pressure not to probe must be considerable. Last Friday, Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) told HBOs Bill Maher that youre going to need to use the special prosecutors statute and office to probe the Russia-Trump matter. But on Monday, Issa retreated, saying he would support an independent review but not a special prosecutor because theres no individual under suspicion.
Nunes, serving as judge and jury, told reporters Monday that it was ridiculous to suggest Flynns transition talks with the Russian ambassador violated the law prohibiting private citizens from conducting foreign policy. We should be thanking him, Nunes declared, not going after him.
Good idea. And after they thank Flynn, the Duma investigators should send chocolates to Putin.
WASHINGTON The dyspeptic Henry Adams was not nice but not wrong when he described what now is named the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, adjacent to the White House, as an architectural infant asylum. The granite pile, which once housed the State, War and Navy departments, was, Harry Truman said, the greatest monstrosity in America. Actually, todays premier monstrosity is the federal budget, which is Mick Mulvaneys headache as the new head of the Office of Management and Budget, which is housed in the EEOB.
If the dictionary had an entry for deficit hawk, it would have Mulvaneys picture next to it: In 2011, he opposed raising the debt ceiling unless it was linked to deep spending cuts and a constitutional amendment requiring a balanced budget. Now 49, he became a South Carolina congressman by defeating a 14-term Democrat who was chairman of the House Budget Committee. Mulvaney was about to begin his fourth term when the new president nominated him to be budget director. This detonated Sen. John McCain, who voted against Mulvaney, whose fiscal stringency extends to defense spending.
Mulvaney represented upstate South Carolina, where Andrew Jackson might or might not have been born (southern North Carolina also claims him) and where Jacksons military spirit still lives. Mulvaney and McCain both oppose the budget slush fund used to evade spending caps by paying for some military operations outside the regular defense budget, as Overseas Contingency Operations. McCain has derided OCO as a gimmick. In 2016, it was 10 percent of defense spending; bringing those operations into regular budgeting will further complicate Mulvaneys task of solving this budgetary Rubiks cube: How to accommodate preserving the sequesters spending caps, cutting tax revenues by upward of $6 trillion over a decade, reforming the tax code, substantially increasing defense spending, finding $1 trillion for infrastructure projects and leaving untouched entitlements while every day 10,000 more baby boomers become eligible for Social Security and Medicare. Today AARP is running television ads urging support for the new presidents promise to protect and save both programs. While Mulvaney stresses the guarantee that no one in or near retirement will ever be affected by entitlement reforms, he also insists that there must be changes if the two programs are to be protected and saved.
It is an old joke: Two people, an economist and a normal person, fall into a deep pit with steep, unscalable sides. Dont worry, says the economist, well just assume a ladder. It is an old budgeting practice: Assume rapid economic growth. What OMB decides to assume will depend, Mulvaney says, on finding the sweet spot among various public- and private-sector growth projections.
Although since 2000 average GDP growth has been an anemic 1.9 percent, and America just completed a decade without a single year of 3 percent growth, Steven Mnuchin, the new treasury secretary, has signaled what the administration will assume: He believes 3 percent growth can be normal. Never mind that growth was 1.8 percent last year, and the Federal Reserve sees 1.8 percent for many years, and the Congressional Budget Office projects 1.9 percent for five years.
Mulvaney notes that someone 35 years old has spent his or her entire working life experiencing nothing but economic sluggishness. The political rewards for delivering the novelty of economic dynamism could be transformative. He insists that 1.9 percent is not the new normal and 230 years of American history are more indicative of what America is capable of. Whatever his shop proposes will reflect dynamic scoring, which estimates the growth effects of tax reform and, even more, regulatory relief, which he thinks can have two to three times the growth effect of tax policy.
The list of prior budget directors includes many luminous names: George Shultz, Caspar Weinberger, Leon Panetta, Alice Rivlin, Mitch Daniels, Rob Portman. None faced a challenge as daunting as Mulvaneys, with much depending on tax reform at a moment when Republicans are sharply divided about various proposals.
Confirmed later than any of his predecessors, Mulvaney is just getting organized in his ornate 19th-century office. The French writer Guy de Maupassant so loathed the Eiffel Tower that he frequently lunched in its restaurant because there he could not see the tower. As Mulvaney struggles to reconcile Americans appetite for government services and their aversion to paying for them, one consolation is that he cannot see the EEOB from his office in it.
KEVIN FIELDS, Winston-Salem
Join together
President Trump spoke before Congress on Tuesday night with courage and dignity, inviting all Americans to join him in making our nation great again, as it was in our parents and grandparents days (More-restrained Trump: Join forces for new greatness, March 1).
The time for division and protest is over. Its time to join together to move forward.
Im sure not everyone will. Some people are so full of bitterness and hatred that theyre willing to let America suffer rather than join their neighbors.
I pray they will be few, and that God will continue to show his mercy and grace on the rest of us as we turn this country from lawlessness and crime and a give me free stuff mentality.
We can be great again if we work together!
***
BEVERLY M. BURTON, Winston-Salem
Winning
On Monday, President Trump said, Win. We have to win. We have to start winning wars again.
I cant help thinking it would be news to our Armed Forces that theyve been losing.
Trump continued: I have to say, when I was young, in high school and college, everybody used to say that we never lost a war. We never lost a war. You remember.
Oh, God. Is Trump going to have to start a war now just so he can say he won it? Voting for this child may be the worst mistake any living American ever made.
Trump has insulted our military, our allies, journalists, Congress, immigrants, minorities is there anyone he hasnt insulted? Besides white supremacists, that is. Doesnt it say something that theyre perfectly happy with him?
This man is a disgrace to America. Please, please, somebody impeach him before he gets us all killed.
******
BARNEY HARPER, Winston-Salem
Disconnect from reality
President Trumps disconnect from reality is nothing new. Former White House adviser Karl Rove once claimed that political power allows you to create your own reality, which is the practice of oppressive regimes like North Korea, China and the USSR, where the state tells people what to believe and any dissent is punished.
This philosophy has gained traction in the Republican Party, which is the only major political party in the modern world including parties in Canada, Mexico, England, Spain, France and many others, including China that denies the truth of climate change. Think about that: The Republican Party thinks it can define reality better than any scientific organization or political party in the 21st century, despite all evidence to the contrary.
Trump is the perfect Republican president for this time. His whole life, his money has allowed him to believe whatever absurdity he wants even the absurd claim that for him, sleeping around was an equivalent sacrifice to fighting in Vietnam with few to challenge him. His administrations preference for friendly propaganda sources like The Washington Times and Brietbart could have been predicted.
The Democratic Party has spun the facts at times, but it never made a whole policy out of living in fantasy like the GOP has.
Theres a price to pay for basing ones life philosophy on lies rather than objective truth.
******
KEVIN LAWRENCE, Winston-Salem
Trumps language
President Trump has branded mainstream media as the enemy of the American people. The Journal recently attempted a balanced response to this Stalinesque insult.
On the left side of the op-ed page (Trump and the press, Feb. 24), Dana Milbank pointed out that American journalists are Americans themselves, with all kinds of American backgrounds and histories. On the right side of the page, Marc Thiessen complained of the lefts hypocrisy, noting that President Obama and Hillary Clinton both called Republicans their enemies.
Its no surprise that Obama and Clinton saw Republicans as enemies, given the way many Republicans spoke about them. But Trump goes much further. Ultimately he claims he is entitled to decide who is really American. Trumps language here is as sinister as his contention that 3-5 million people voted illegally in the 2016 election. No American president has ever spoken like this.
A few Republican friends of mine, and some Journal correspondents, seem puzzled by strong objections to such comments of Trump and his team. We read about liberals who are crybabies, hysterical, etc. Since Trump won the election promising to shake things up, some may find it exciting to hear a phrase like enemies of the people, an appellation that became a death sentence in revolutionary France and Stalinist Russia.
I certainly dont think America needs this kind of excitement. I value our free press, protected by the First Amendment, faithful to what America stands for, serving the truth, our country and all its people.
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Fans of the namaste bow or tree pose will soon have a new studio to practice their regular stretching and breathing techniques, as Essential Yoga recently held its soft opening at 140 West Richardson Street (upstairs from Katie Mae's) in Summerville's historic downtown area. Read moreEssential Yoga debuts in Summerville
[JURIST] The Kansas Supreme Court [official website] ruled [opinion, PDF] on Thursday that the state failed to ensure sufficient funding for public schools. The court found that approximately one-fourth of Kansass public school students have not been provided with basic reading and math skills. If the state does not create a new, adequate funding system by June 30, then schools will begin to be shut down as the school system will be deemed unconstitutional under Article 6 of the Kansas Constitution [text]. The court did not specify exactly how much extra funding is necessary, but an attorney for the plaintiff school districts estimates that the cost would be approximately $800 million.
Education funding has led to numerous legal challenges across the US. Last month the Illinois State Board of Education voted to approve [JURIST report] a settlement of a lawsuit claiming discriminatory school funding. In September the Supreme Court of Nevada ruled [JURIST report] that the states school funding system was unconstitutional. Earlier that month the Kentucky Supreme Court ruled that Governor Matt Bevin did not have the authority to unilaterally cut the budget [JURIST report] for state universities. In 2015 the Supreme Court of Washington ordered [JURIST report] the state to pay a fine of $100,000 per day for each day that it fails to comply with a previous court ruling mandating adequate funding of public schools. Also in August of that year the US Senate passed a bill [JURIST report] to revamp the 2001 No Child Left Behind Act.
[JURIST] The Mississippi Senate [official website] on Thursday voted in favor [official website, bill history] of adding more ways to carry out the death penalty. House Bill 638 [text], which passed [JURIST report] in the Mississippi House of Representatives on February 8, would expand Mississippis methods of execution to include firing squad, gas chamber and electrocution in case the courts rule lethal injection unconstitutional. The Senate rejected [AP report] the firing squad option but retained the options of gas chamber and electrocution. The amended bill has been sent back to the House.
The death penalty has been a pressing issue across the country. Last month the Supreme Court denied review [JURIST report] in a death penalty case. A week earlier the Supreme Court ruled [JURIST report] in favor of a death row inmate over racial bias. Also in February a judge for the US District Court for the Southern District of Ohio refused to lift [JURIST report] a preliminary injunction that delays executions in Ohio. In January Judge Michael Merz rejected [JURIST report] Ohios lethal injection protocol by deeming it unconstitutional under the Eighth Amendment. Also in January the US Supreme Court refused [JURIST report] to consider a challenge to Alabamas death penalty system. In December a report by the Death Penalty Information Center found that the use of capital punishment in the US is at a 20-year low [JURIST report].
[JURIST] The Egypt Court of Cassation [official website, in Arabic] on Thursday acquitted [Reuters report] former president Hosni Mubarak [BBC profile] in a retrial of charges that he killed protesters during the civil uprising in 2011 that ended his 30-year reign. Mubarak was initially convicted on these charges and sentenced to life in prison in 2012. But Mubarak strenuously maintained his innocence over the years, and an appeals court later ordered a retrial that ultimately brought the case to the Cassation Court. The retrial was postponed [JURIST report] in November as it was moved from the High Court building in Cairo to a different location. The Court rejected demands from lawyers for the victims and their families to initiate to reopen civil suits, which would mean that any remaining option for appeal or retrial is now closed.
Mubarak and other members of his administration have been consistently involved in some form of judicial proceeding since the Egyptian Revolution [JURIST backgrounder]. In October 2015 another Egypt court ordered [JURIST report] the release of Mubaraks sons, Gamal and Alaa Mubarak, after holding that they have completed their three-year prison sentences for embezzlement. In January 2015 a court in Egypt overturned [JURIST report] the May 2014 convictions of Mubarak on embezzlement charges and ordered a retrial. In December 2013 an Egypt court acquitted [JURIST report] former prime minister and presidential candidate Ahmed Shafiq and Alaa and Gamal Mubarak of charges of embezzling public funds.
A London high court judge ruled on Friday that all drivers applying for a minicab or private hire vehicle license must pass a English reading and writing test [Independent report] that includes a 120-word short essay. The case was taken to court by Uber Technologies [corporate website], the ride-share app company, which protested the new language test rules of Transport for London (TFL) [official website], Londons transport authority. Uber, representing the drivers, argued that the language requirement would cause 33,000 drivers to lose their livelihoods and have a disproportionate impact on drivers from countries where English was not predominantly spoken and thereby amounts to an indirect discrimination on grounds of race and nationality. Judge John Mitting, acknowledged that the requirement could cause 40,000 drivers to either fail the test or be deterred from applying for a private hire vehicle license over a three-year period. Nevertheless, Mitting rejected the argument that the standards were too high and ruled that the requirements were essential for ensuring passenger safety, and raising standards. Londons Mayor Sadiq Khan [official website] applauded the decision stating: Im delighted that the courts have today backed my plans to drive up standards and improve passenger safety in London. However, the lawyer for Uber and the drivers termed the decision as deeply disappointing [Guardian report] stating that while Uber has always supported spoken English skills, it fails to see the relevance of writing an essay to communicating with passengers or getting them safely from one location to another. Uber has announced its intention to appeal the decision.
Uber has been involved in an increasing number of legal proceedings in the last year. In January, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) [official website] announced [JURIST report] that Uber agreed to pay $20 million to settle a claim that the ride-hailing company had engaged in misleading tactics to recruit new drivers. In December the European wing of Uber was indicted [JURIST report] in Denmark on charges of assisting drivers in their violation of taxi laws, although Copenhagen prosecutor Vibeke Thorkil-Jensen stated that that was just a test case seeking judicial assessment of Ubers involvement in the illegal acts of two of its drivers. In November a UK employment tribunal ruled [JURIST report] that Uber can no longer treat its drivers as self-employed and must provide certain workers rights to its drivers, including minimum wage. In September the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit [official website] ruled [JURIST report] that Uber drivers may not join in a class action suit to pursue employment claims against the transportation company but must resolve their disputes individually. In April Uber reached a settlement [JURIST report] with 385,000 of its drivers in Massachusetts and California in a case surrounding the drivers status as independent contractors. The California Labor Commission [official website] ruled [JURIST report] in June 2015 that drivers for the personal transportation service Uber are considered employees, not contractors.
[JURIST] A judge for US District Court for the Northern District of Iowa [official website] on Thursday sentenced a man who lied about his participation in the Rwandan genocide to 15 years imprisonment followed by deportation. Gervais Ngombwa [case materials] was convicted [North Iowa Today report] on charges of immigration fraud, with the prosecution asserting that Ngombwa was a participant in the genocide and a leader in an extremist Hutu party that actively killed minority Tutsis. He is also under indictment in Rwanda, and Judge Linda Reade [official profile] decided to let him stand trial in Rwanda on genocide charges after his US prison term. Ngombwa had told authorities that he was subject to persecution in Rwanda as the brother of an exiled Rwandan prime minister, which allowed his family to resettle in the US.
Last year two former Rwandan mayors went on trial in the Assize Court of Paris [JURIST report] on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The two men, Tito Barahira and Octavien Ngenzi, are accused of supervis[ing] and participat[ing] in the attack on [Tutsis], even going as far as killing wounded survivors in a clinic. In January of last year the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda formally closed [JURIST report] after issuing 45 judgments. In September 2015 a court in Toulouse, France, refused extradition requests [JURIST report] for Joseph Habyarimana, a Rwandan man, facing charges of genocide and crimes against humanity.
Track product launches by FMCG companies to get an understanding of the product-level strategies including geographic concentrations, innovation types, product claim, category focus and more
Monitoring the advertising strategies of various brands and gain insights into channel focus, regional focus, and more
Perform company-level analysis to understand business model, size, and geographic focus
Unilever product advertising is mainly through mainstream TV channels. Out of the products advertised so far at least 50% (over 850) of ads have been run on TV, while print media comes second with 496 ads. Unilever also utilizes social media platforms for advertisement. Unilever products are categorized by innovation ratings and tags in our product launch database. The North American region consists of almost 74 products with innovations related to the formulation of the product. Europe and other regions also have more products categorized under formulation-related innovation, followed by the packaging and positioning of the products. Most Unilever products are tagged with High Vitamins, Recyclable, and Natural tags to understand what the product differentiator is from other products available in the market. The majority of products belong to the personal care industry with a total of 5,788 products to date. This report, through the Unilever Example, illustrates how GlobalData Explorer enables you to:Dont miss out on key market insights that can help optimize your next investment read the report now.
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The UK arm of Denmark-based meat co-operative Danish Crown has acquired UK foodservice company Leivers Brothers for an undisclosed sum.
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Danish Crown said the takeover of the Nottingham-based firm is with immediate effect from 1 March and does not require approval from competition authorities. The company said the move will double its UK foodservice business revenue.
Danish Crown Group CEO Jais Valeur said: Wanting to get closer to the end-users of our products is part and parcel of our 4WD strategy. This is by no means a major acquisition, but it is an important step in our efforts to create the right conditions for our UK foodservice business to be able to grow organically.
Leivers, which was founded in 1880, has been a supplier of bacon, fresh meat, cheese, sausages and meat to butchers, restaurants and canteens for many decades, Danish Crown said.
CEO of Danish Crown UK Lars Albertsen added: This is a very exciting step for the UK. While foodservice is a new business area for us, in which our pioneering spirit has brought us far in a relatively short time, next on the agenda is the integration of Leivers Brothers with the rest of our business. The synergies are obvious. I would go so far as to describe this as a major development for our foodservice division.
Foodservice has been part of Danish Crowns business in the UK since 2014. The group said it has succeeded in establishing a stable base in and around London and Manchester and this is now being further expanded in the Midlands with the acquisition of Leivers Brothers.
Earlier this week Tulip, the UK subsidiary of Danish Crown, warned more than 100 jobs could be axed at its Redruth site as a result of changes to shift patterns.
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KEARNEY Connecting with patients, whether its at their bedside or from behind his desk, is what matters to Danny Van Ranken.
Thats what its about, he said. For me, I love taking care of patients.
Its that attitude, and caring for patients, that earned Van Ranken the outstate award for Respiratory Therapist of the Year from the Nebraska Society for Respiratory Care.
Every year, the society honors three respiratory therapists for being outstanding in their regions at the Great Plains Conference for Respiratory Care in Lincoln. The awards are given to one respiratory therapist in Lincoln, one in Omaha and one outstate.
Respiratory therapists specialize in the cardiopulmonary system and in breathing issues.
Van Ranken was nominated for the award for what he and his team accomplished at Kearney Regional Medical Center where he is the respiratory therapy manager.
Jill Sand, a former co-worker and director for the Respiratory Care Program at Southeast Community College in Lincoln and president of the Nebraska Society of Respiratory Care, nominated him for the award.
Sand, a Bertrand native, worked with Van Ranken while the two were respiratory therapists on staff at Bryan Health East Campus.
Ive watched Danny really grow as a therapist, take on new responsibility, really without needing a lot of direction. He just takes it and runs with it, and whatever he does he makes it into a new and innovative, really neat working environment, she said. For me personally, its important that Danny does what he does in the area he does because my parents and those that I love, that is where they will receive care. Its important that Danny is as innovative as he can be because someday he or his staff or the things hes implemented may impact the lives of my family more than I can ever imagine.
Van Ranken gives credit to his staff and co-workers for his success.
Having been nominated was an honor. Then to go ahead and win it was an even bigger honor because you know it came from peers who do the exact same thing as you every day. It was nice to be able to receive that recognition from so many different peers in the state, he said.
A Colby, Kan., native, Van Ranken graduated from Colby High School in 1997, graduated from Colby Community College and later Southeast Community College at Lincoln. He now serves on the board of directors for the respiratory therapy program.
Van Ranken worked at CHI Health Good Samaritan for one year, returned to Lincoln and worked at Bryan Health East Campus where he became a supervisor. During his 15-year career there, Van Ranken specialized in adult critical care, was on the neonatal transport team and worked in the neonatal intensive care unit.
In 2014, Van Ranken moved his wife, Nellie, an Amherst native, and their three young daughters back to Kearney and started at KRMC. In addition to managing the program and 15 other therapists, Van Ranken also sees patients.
I do not ever want to get to the point in my career that Im so far removed from practice that I cant go take care of a patient. Patient care is what I love, he said. Honestly, if I had to give up patient care or give up being in management, Id give up being in management.
I enjoy taking care of people and seeing patients get better.
@HubChic
KEARNEY The Buffalo County Republican Party will be visited by Kenny Zoeller, the newly appointed executive director of the Nebraska Republican Party, at its upcoming monthly meeting.
Zoeller will speak about his vision for the future of the Nebraska GOP and how Republicans can continue to grow the party. In January, Gov. Pete Ricketts appointed Zoeller as executive director to the state Republican Party.
The meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday at Kearney Public Library. The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
ALMA Law enforcement is searching for a man in Harlan County who allegedly shot himself Thursday evening in a dispute over cigarettes.
The Harlan County Sheriffs Office was called around 10:45 p.m. Thursday for a person who was possibly shot in Alma.
Officers met with a 22-year-old man who stated he and his brother, 26, had been in an argument over cigarettes when it escalated to a gun being involved, according to a press release from the Harlan County Sheriffs Office.
According to a Harlan County dispatcher, during the scuffle the 26-year-old man shot himself and fled.
Sheriffs officers, the Nebraska State Patrol and a K9 unit searched the immediate area and were unable to find the suspect. The extent of his injuries was unknown earlier today.
A search warrant was conducted on a residence and controlled substances were recovered.
One man was taken into custody for felony possession of a controlled substance and is being held at Phelps County Jail.
If anyone has information regarding the alleged shooting victim, they are asked to contact the Harlan County Sheriffs Office at (308) 928-2147.
LINCOLN (AP) A bill that would require drug screenings for Nebraska welfare recipients raised objections Thursday from civil liberties groups and advocates for low-income residents.
The measure presented to a committee would require applicants to complete substance abuse and job skills programs if they test positive for illegal drugs.
The bill is intended not to punish individuals but to provide treatment for people with a substance abuse problem, said state Sen. Dan Hughes of Venango, the bills sponsor.
Hughes said he introduced the bill at the urging of constituents in his southwest Nebraska district, who voiced concerns that welfare recipients might be abusing the benefit.
Under the bill, applicants who test positive would have to complete substance abuse and job skills training programs. Those who fail or refuse to complete either program would become ineligible for cash assistance for a year, or until both programs are completed.
The Department of Health and Human Services could assign a protective payee to handle finances for a parent or guardian who gets disqualified.
Nebraska has an average of 5,710 recipients per month, according to the department. The drug tests could cost an estimated $50,200 a year in state and federal money, based on the assumption that 11 percent of current adult recipients are suspected of drug abuse. If 4 percent of those tested are declared ineligible, the state and federal government would see a combined savings of $21,300.
Additionally, state officials say theyd have to hire a new program specialist at a cost of more than $73,000 in state and federal money.
Applicants would have to take a test if caseworkers suspect theyre abusing drugs, which Hughes acknowledged is a subjective standard. Hughes said the measure has problems that need to be fixed but argued the state should do more to help people who are abusing illegal drugs.
We want people to live meaningful lives, and I feel dependency on drugs is a barrier, he said.
Critics said the bill violates recipients constitutional rights by subjecting them to invasive tests. Unlike drug screenings required by employers, state tests for parolees usually require a test-taker to urinate in front of another person, said Amy Miller, legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska.
There is nothing more invasive or more concerning ... than literally making poor people expose themselves, Miller said.
Additionally, Miller said a false positive could force recipients to take a second test at their own expense just to clear their name.
We have no examples, no studies, no proof that this is even happening in Nebraska, she said.
Its also not clear whether the state has enough resources to test every suspected drug user, said Becky Gould, executive director of the group Nebraska Appleseed.
I think there are a lot of questions there about whether treatment will actually be provided, Gould said.
At least 15 states have passed laws that relate to drug testing or screening to qualify for public assistance, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Some apply to all applicants, while others target people with a history of drug abuse or those who are believed to be using.
Other states that required tests have found little evidence of drug abuse among recipients.
In the four months after Florida enacted its program, the state tested 4,086 applicants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and 108 about 2.6 percent of the total tested positive for illegal narcotics. Hughes noted that nearly 1,600 applicants declined to take the test, which makes it difficult to draw conclusions.
In the 1950s the Communist Party was resolved in making inroads into the Western Hemisphere. Concerted efforts were put upon Central and South America. These countries were controlled by dictators. The Communist Peoples Party agitated the lower classes and the workers to rebel, while putting their own leaders into positions of power.
This was played nightly on our televisions in the United States. Riots, destruction, mayhem and organized devastation. What kind of people has the disrespect for their country to act with such lawlessness? No one imagined the conflict that was happening in these undeveloped countries could happen in our country.
Since our last election, there has been unprecedented discord. After 46 peaceful transitions of political change in our nation, there is a revolt from a bitter and unaccountable Democrat Party. With organized riots in the streets, and with obstinate obstruction in Congress, they destroy in place of debate and terrorize instead of talk.
Many people have been observing that the two political parties have been growing farther apart. The Democrat Party was diverted significantly to the left by Hillary Clinton, billionaire George Soros, and the labor union bosses during Clintons campaign for New York Senate. This exploit was the establishment of The Shadow Party. It was a huge liberal shift of power and direction within the party. Google The Shadow Party and find out. Barack Obama is staying in Washington, D.C., with intentions to obstruct the current administration, which has never in history been done by a president.
The Republican Party follows the principles of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. They want every citizen to prosper, and they do not separate people into different groups.
To understand the radical movement of the Democrats is to compare two of the recent presidents.
One president proclaimed in his inaugural address, Do not ask what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. One president announced falsely, prior to a presidential election, that terrorism had been defeated and that an obscure Internet video was to blame for a savage attack on our consulate in Benghazi, Libya. This resulted in the murder and mutilation of four Americans, including our ambassador.
One president was the first Catholic ever to be elected president of the United States.
One president, within the White House, had prayer rugs and crescent moons for secretive rituals, and ordered silence for Islamic prayer five times a day.
John F. Kennedy and his integrity would not be welcome in the Democrat Party today.
Kim Phillips, Pleasanton
FILE- In this Sept. 21, 2016 file photo, school district attorney Alan Rupe, left, presents his arguments in a school funding case at the Kansas Supreme Court in Topeka, Kan. Kansas' highest court on Thursday, March 2, 2017, ordered the state to increase its spending on public schools, which could further complicate the state's dire budget problems and increase pressure to undo large tax cuts championed by Republican Gov. Sam Brownback. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)
Train derails in central Seoul, injuring 30 passengers A train derailed in central Seoul on Sunday, injuring some 30 passengers, the operator said. The derailment occurred at 8:52 p.m., when the Mugunghwa train with 275 passengers o...
More than 117,000 visit mourning altars set up across Seoul for Itaewon victims More than 117,000 people paid their respects at mourning altars set up across Seoul for the victims of the Halloween crowd crush that killed at least 156 people in the city's night...
File photo
A simple Facebook search reunited a mother and son who were separated without contact for 33 years, the pair said on Thursday.
Vipavadee Thisorn, 54, and Parinya Thisorn, 36, met each other for
the first time in three decades in an emotional encounter on Wednesday
at Thailands southern city of Hat Yai.
Their meeting came three days after Vipavadee searched for her son
on Facebook and found him, after several previous unsuccessful attempts.
I tried searching his nickname Oat and his full name many times and never found him, Vipavadee said.
Parinya just recently bought a smartphone and joined Facebook.
Vipavadee, who separated from her husband, Parinyas father, when
he was 3-years-old, said she was too young at the time to take
responsibility.
She had tried to reconnect with her son over the years.
For the past few years, I kept seeing Parinyas father, who
died in 2011, in my vision, he would sit next to my bed when I was
sleeping. I think this is the sign that it is the right time to try to
find my son again.
I started the conversation on Facebook with my son. He was not
sure who I was at first and asked personal questions like his fathers
name and my nickname. Once we both realised we are mother and son, we
both burst into tears, Vipavadee said.
Parinya, who travelled 1,700 kilometres from the northern city of Chiang Rai, asked his mother to live with him and his son. I will never let her go again, he said.
A man has shocked people by reportedly exchanging his wife for beer inside a beer parlour.
According to reports, a Zimbabwean man got into trouble after exchanging his wife for extra drinks in a beer parlour.
The man identified as Bulala, reportedly has a reputation for loving beer more than he loves his own wife. He shocked
people by allowing a man touch his wife inappropriately, in exchange for more beer.
According to B Metro, Bulala had offered his wife to a man known as
Andrew Mali, after he offered to pay for more drinks and meat for him.
Bulala was said to have ignored Mali when he started touching his wife.
They had drank from about 4pm to 7pm, before moving on to another beer
parlour. He eventually reacted when they got to the bus stop, by
stabbing Mali in the face with a broken beer bottle.
Bulala reportedly took his wife and abandoned Mali to bleed out. Mali
was taken to the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) where he regained
consciousness. Bulala was eventually arrested after police discovered
that he was with Mali before he was stabbed.
Bulala pleaded not guilty when he appeared before the magistrate in court.
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We long for the moments in our life that justify our course, that illuminate the banalities of our daily routine, and that instill within us a mission that suddenly harmonizes all that you have done and all that you hope to do.
My first year as a physician-in-training consisted of an insurmountable study load, a constant quarrel with the torturous alliance of fatigue and self-doubt, and the simple reality being a 22-year old uncertain of himself and his future. When I was accepted into medical school, I committed myself to becoming a holistic, politically aware, and multifaceted physician advocate who is as proficient in the socioeconomic context of disease as he is in biochemistry and pathology.
With the obligation to stare at notes on my computer screen and find seemingly non-existent anatomical features in cadaver lab, this persona I strived to attain for so long had become an enigma that I was holding onto by a thread.
Then, I witnessed a silent, yet egregious injustice that turned this feeble thread into a strong grasp.
I had the privilege of assisting a lawyer, physician, and translator with a medical forensic evaluation on an asylum seeker detained in one of our countrys 300 privately contracted immigration detention facilities. This asylum seeker, Jemal, was also a physician but from Ethiopia, specializing in HIV/AIDS. He is an ethnic Oromo, a group in Ethiopia often persecuted by a government that seeks to admonish political dissent and free speech.
His work played an instrumental role in the lives of so many of his countrymen, yet he was imprisoned and tortured simply for holding different views from his government overseers. He escaped Ethiopia, arrived in the United States, expressed his desire to seek asylum, and was immediately detained. This man is not a criminal, yet the country that he sought as his protector from torture and persecution would be the arbiter of further injustice.
Jemal was transferred to the Immigration Center for Americas detention center in Farmville, Virginia. This is remote location is hours away from potential legal representation, medical care, immigration courts, and anyone who can provide this man with the slightest optimism and ease of mind. A significant number of immigration detention centers are intentionally placed in remote locations to distance themselves from legal and social assistance. Fortunately, for my team, this barrier did not stop us, and we embarked on a four-hour trip from Washington, D.C. to Farmville.
When we arrived, we checked in with the security personnel. Our visit had been authorized by the Immigration Detention Center days prior to our arrival, and my supervisor and I were ready to conduct the medical evaluation. We expected to simply fulfill our roles as health care professionals and provide this man with a service that he is entitled to. Instead, we were met with our second barriers: illogical and arbitrary policy, hostility, and broken promises. We were forbidden from conducting a medical evaluation, and our medical equipment, necessary documents and medical records, and even pens were confiscated.
In the face of arbitrary decisions made by those subverting government regulations and Jemals fundamental rights, we were motivated to find any way in. So, we improvised. We were now visitors desiring a simple conversation with Jemal. Finally, the prison staff budged and we were allowed to see Jemal empty-handed. When we were granted admission, we were confronted with our third and quite literally, our most palpable barrier, a 6-inch thick piece soundproof glass that separated us from Jemal. Still determined to conduct the evaluation, I witnessed one of the most skillful demonstrations of medicine I have ever seen. I witnessed my supervising physician conduct an entire medical evaluation where she documented Jemals physical and psychological sequelae of torture through a telephone and dirty piece of glass. When she was done, she affirmed that we will do everything in our power as health professionals to get him out of detention and get him the assistance he needs. Jemals look of relief unleashed a shiver within me that continues to resonate.
At the end of the day, I witnessed a sample of the greater injustice that is asylum seeker and refugee detainment. But, for me, the greater lesson is clear: the mission to improve the lives of those who have been victim to torture, persecution, and indignity does not end with an inspirational shiver. The practice of medicine goes hand in hand with the advancement of humanity. For every medical student or career physician struggling to find a purpose of their work, let us reaffirm our obligation to those who have been denied the right to pursue the greatest state of physical, social, and mental well being. Jemals story is unfortunately shared by too many in this world. For this medical student, the process of ameliorating each one of them begins with a call to action. This is a call to integrate the trials of my medical education with the goal of using these skills to stand with Jemal and those everywhere who need a voice and healing hand.
Kevin Diasti is a medical student.
Image credit: Shutterstock.com
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Amazing, A man transform himself into ALIEN
A man has spent $50,000 on plastic surgery to become an alien - and could soon have his genitalia removed. Vinny Ohh, 22, from Los Angeles in California, has had over 110 procedures to transform into a 'genderless' extra-terrestrial. The make-up artist believes he's neither male nor female and so his extreme look is a way to mirror how he feels inside. Vinny has had two rhinoplasties at 19 and 21 to fix his nose and over 90 procedures to become an alien.
He started with lip fillers at the age of 17, before having two rhinoplasties, multiple cheeks and brow bone fillers and more.
The part-time model also wears large blackened contact lenses, alien like talons and unusual hair dye colours.
Read More...
Kilkenny student Eilish Lawlor from Castlecomer last week joined other food and agriculture students from University College Dublin and Waterford Institute of Technology in UCDs Garret Fitzgerald Debating Chamber for a debate on the possible impact of Brexit on the Irish agri-food industry.
The second Annual 'Great Agri-Food Debate' pitted teams against each other on the motion: 'Brexit will be good for the Irish Agri-Food Industry'. The event was hosted by Dawn Meats and McDonalds Ireland.
Irish agri-food exports to the UK account for one third of the countrys total merchandise exports to the UK, and just under half of Irish beef exports are destined for the UK market.
Following an energetic and informative debate, with both teams having accounted for themselves extremely well, the team from UCD opposing the motion won the debate on a very tight split decision.
The Irish agri-food industry, without demand from the UK, would be completely rudderless. Like it or not, for hundreds of years, Ireland and the UK have had close ties and a trading relationship, argued team captain Niall Walsh.
Its very hard to see how barriers and tariffs in this relationship could be a good thing.
A brave mother is walking through North Kilkenny this afternoon in a bid to get her daughter treatment for a medical condition that is causing up to twenty seizures a day.
Vera Twomey walked through Urlingford earlier today and is expected to arrive in Johnstown shortly. She is travelling on foot to Dail Eireann in the hope that the Minister for Health, Simon Harris will find a way to enable her daughter, Ava to use medicinal cannabis.
Last week the HSE refused to approve the drug for Ava, her six-year-old who suffers from Dravets syndrome which manifests itself through multiple epileptic fits and seizures on a daily basis.
Vera said that while the Charlottes Web cannabis oil is not a cure for the condition it has already offered significant hope for her daughter.
Vera is walking the 255 kilometre journey from Cork to the Dail in Dublin to highlight the importance of allowing medicinal cannabis to be used to treat medical conditions.
Tomorrow she will continue her walk starting from Cullahill. All are welcome to join her for part of her walk.
For the 21st time already, the Karlsruhe Dialogues take place from March 3 to 5. (Illustration: ZAK)
As a result of nationalism, xenophobia, populism, disenchantment with politics, or mistrust, open society increasingly finds itself in difficulty. From March 3 to 5, 2017, experts, creative artists, and activists from many countries and cultures will meet for the 21st Karlsruhe Dialogues to discuss the future of a pluralistic society. The 21st Karlsruhe Dialogues on Pluralistic Society and Its Enemies are conceived and organized by ZAK | Centre for Applied and General Studies of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT).
[...]
For more information in German, registration, and the program, click here: http://www.zak.kit.edu/english/5124.php
Being The Research University in the Helmholtz Association, KIT creates and imparts knowledge for the society and the environment. It is the objective to make significant contributions to the global challenges in the fields of energy, mobility, and information. For this, about 9,800 employees cooperate in a broad range of disciplines in natural sciences, engineering sciences, economics, and the humanities and social sciences. KIT prepares its 22,300 students for responsible tasks in society, industry, and science by offering research-based study programs. Innovation efforts at KIT build a bridge between important scientific findings and their application for the benefit of society, economic prosperity, and the preservation of our natural basis of life. KIT is one of the German universities of excellence.
The current 2016 Grundungsradar ranking by the Stifterverband for Promoting Science and Education reflects exemplary support of startups by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Of the 34 big German universities, KIT is in second place, thus confirming the good results of previous years.
Parallel to research and education, innovation is one of the core tasks of KIT, Professor Holger Hanselka, President of KIT, says. At the interface of science and industry, KITs innovations contribute to benefit for society and added values. I am very happy about the good result and the recognition of our work by the Grundungsradar.
Support of startups is an important element of KITs innovation culture, Professor Thomas Hirth, Vice President for Innovation and International Affairs of KIT, emphasizes. All KIT members consider the transfer of findings to application their commitment to solving challenges facing society. The good Grundungsradar ranking, hence, is a high recognition of all founders and innovators at KIT.
Innovation at KIT
KIT attaches high importance to transferring research results to added values through startups, participations, licenses, and services for industry. Industry partners, students, and employees are offered customized services by KIT, such as the KIT Business Club, KIT Campus Transfer GmbH, and KIT Founders Forge, the first partner to be contacted in case of questions regarding startups and funding. At its high-tech incubator, KIT offers perfect conditions for the spinoffs to grow. KIT NEULAND, the annual innovation day, represents a platform for technologies and startups to present themselves.
More information is provided at:
http://www.innovation.kit.edu/english/index.php
www.kit-gruenderschmiede.de (in German only)
The Grundungsradar, the Germany-wide ranking of startup support services by the Stiferverband for Promoting Science and Education places Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in second place together with the University of Potsdam in the category of Big Universities with more than 15,000 students. The Technical University of Munich and Munich University of Applied Sciences are in first place. For the third time now, the Grundungsradar ranking was issued by the Stifterverband in cooperation with the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. The ranking reflects support of startups and spinoffs by German universities through awareness building and support services as well as through establishment of a sustainable startup culture. However, the ranking also reflects the startup activities realized in the end, i.e. the outcome of startup support services.
Find more information at:
www.stifterverband.org/medien/gruendungsradar-2016
(in German only)
Being The Research University in the Helmholtz Association, KIT creates and imparts knowledge for the society and the environment. It is the objective to make significant contributions to the global challenges in the fields of energy, mobility, and information. For this, about 9,800 employees cooperate in a broad range of disciplines in natural sciences, engineering sciences, economics, and the humanities and social sciences. KIT prepares its 22,300 students for responsible tasks in society, industry, and science by offering research-based study programs. Innovation efforts at KIT build a bridge between important scientific findings and their application for the benefit of society, economic prosperity, and the preservation of our natural basis of life. KIT is one of the German universities of excellence.
The image above is the 18th century home of friends in Colonia, Uruguay. Today, sitting on their back patio on the Rio de la Plata, I looked out at a small yellow buoy in the harbor that marks the final resting place of the Lord Clive, a large, 60-gun British warship from the 18th century.
In 1763, we British, already at war with Spain, decided to expand the venture to the New World. The Lord Clive arrived in Colonia, Uruguay and began firing into the tiny town. With her heavy contingent of cannon, her captain was confident that he could do enough damage to make the Spanish inhabitants surrender. After extensive bombardment, the Spanish had still not raised the white flag; however, the crew of the Lord Clive had managed to set fire to their own ship. The fire spread quickly and it soon became apparent that the crew must abandon ship, which they did.
Swimming ashore, local accounts of the event have it that, the English crew apologized for bombarding the town and asked for mercy. Not surprisingly, the Spanish killed them all.
Of course, this is not the outcome thats described in English history books. Although the defeat of the British on that day is acknowledged, the folly is not. Although historians will generally acknowledge a defeat, theyre often reluctant to mention any idiocy on the part of their own military. And so any English language version of the story tells a different tale from the account above.
This is a great pity, as much can be learned from historical idiocy. Since its rarely taught, military leaders often make the same idiotic mistakes that their predecessors made.
As an example, we can look at the adventures of the US today and observe their serial invasions over the last fifteen years in the Middle East and elsewhere. These adventures are being pursued ostensibly to make the world safe for democracy. However, whenever the US takes over a foreign country, it puts in place a puppet government not exactly the textbook definition of democracy.
And, of course, warfare is very costly. Choosing to invade multiple countries at the same time, as the US has been doing over the last fifteen years, is quite a bit more costly.
Worse, the US government never misses an opportunity to portray the Russians as evil aggressors an appellation far more suited to the US. On one occasion after another, Russia has sought to tone down the level of aggression, whilst the US has been conducting a shoving match with the Russians, goading them into a conflict.
This is extraordinarily foolish, as it would take very little to light the fuse of direct warfare between the US and Russia. Over the centuries, quite a few countries have challenged Russia, but Russia has always proven to be a very hard country to defeat. Although American films about World War II tend to portray the US of having won the war against the Germans, it was the Russians that did the lions share of the job. Even when poorly armed and poorly prepared, Russia simply throws another ten or twenty million men at the problem and ultimately wears out any attacker. Russians dont like war any more than any other people, but they do have astonishing staying-power. Theyll grimly see a war through, long after their opponents have lost heart.
In addition, China and others have stated their support for Russia, should the US get carried away with its aggression in the Middle East. Both China and Russia have stated that, should the US move on Iran, they will join the fray on Irans side.
It would be foolhardy in the extreme for the US government to assume that it could take these powers on and come out of the fight victorious.
But what does this have to do with the burning of the Lord Clive?
Well, as stated above, the Captain of the Lord Clive had a massive warship, capable of doing a great deal of damage as he bombarded houses including the one pictured above. But the crew became so caught up in their zeal for destruction that they failed to extinguish a fire on board the ship and had to dive overboard, surrendering to the Spanish who, by that time were understandably not feeling particularly merciful.
The US is in a similar situation. Its not exactly in the best shape at home. The economy is on the ropes and a financial collapse may be imminent. The government is rapidly becoming more autocratic and a police state is likely to be instituted in the near future. It will be needed, as funds for entitlements dry up and those who now praise the nanny-state will find that theyve been lied to all this time. Pension funds also are beginning to fail and people in both the private and public sectors will be more than a bit peevish when they discover that this rug, too, has been pulled out from under them.
If we were to imagine the worst possible future for the US, it might go something like this:
The US invades Iran, or directly attacks Russian forces in Syria or another third country.
Russia retaliates and the world takes up sides as World War III begins.
For the first time in history, the American people are angrier at their own government than they are at the trumped-up enemy their government has chosen to oppose.
The US government finds that it must fight a full-blown foreign war at a time when its fighting a second one at home.
All of the above takes place at a time when the US is broke and is economically unable to sustain a fight on either front.
The world turns against the US for causing this fiasco and for the first time, theres no one standing on the same side as the US.
The US effort collapses and, like the crew of the Lord Clive, the US, in effect, abandons ship and asks for forgiveness from those it has invaded.
In the above scenario, we can imagine that the US would have created a situation that would maximize enmity from the rest of the world. (In 1919, Europe forced the Treaty of Versailles on Germany, not out of necessity, but out of vengeance. It served to cripple the German people for decades thereafter both socially and economically.)
A final thought: Every night on American television news programmes, pundits, politicians and retired generals perform their sabre-rattling, stating that the world at large had better cooperate with the US or else. Whilst this bravado may appeal to a segment of the American population, the programming is also available to the rest of the world. We who arent American and dont reside in the US, listen to the threatening rhetoric and find it decidedly unsettling. More to the point, the worlds leaders are also observing the programmes. It has a similar tone to the Nazi buildup in the 1930s. To those outside the US, US leaders are becoming increasingly dangerous.
If this does play out along the lines of the sinking of the Lord Clive, it will be the American people who will pay the price for their leaders reckless behaviour.
SHANGHAI, March 3 (Reuters) - China's Ministry of Finance said on Friday it would auction 10 billion yuan ($1.45 billion) in 182-day bills on March 10. After the auction, the bonds will be issued from March 10 to March 13, and start trading on the secondary market on March 15, the ministry said in a statement. For stories on Chinese debt issues, click on .
($1 = 6.8992 Chinese yuan )
(Reporting by Shanghai Newsroom; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips)
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.
LONDON, March 3 (Reuters) - Ukraine's former Prime Minister Arseny Yatseniuk said on Friday he had declined to become the country's next central bank governor, adding he believed the post should be filled with a professional banker or economist.
The country's current central bank chief, Valeriia Gontareva, suggested on Thursday she may not stay in her post for much longer. Having headed the bank since mid-2014, Gontareva has overseen a clean-up of the banking sector and the floating of the hryvina, but also faced repeated calls from members of parliament to be sacked. Speaking during a visit to London, Yatseniuk told an audience at Chatham House "I refused (the post of central bank governor)".
The CEO of Ukraine's subsidiary of Raiffeisen Bank was "a very good guy", Yatseniuk then added.
(Reporting by Marc Jones, writing by Karin Strohecker)
Editor's Note: Kitco News has officially launched its 2017 Outlook where we ask if this is the start of a new Raging Bull market. Be sure to catch all our coverage here, which includes gold forecasts, special technical reports and of course, our popular Invest Like The Experts Series. We will also be launching a new feature so be sure to stay tuned!
(Kitco News) - Just when it was time to unpack lighter clothes after the BMO Metals and Mining conferenceits time to prepare for chillier Toronto temperatures as the PDAC 2017 kicks off this weekend.
One takeaway from the BMO conference and the Gold Stock Analyst Inevstor Day, which the Kitco News team attended in Florida this week, is that the sentiment is bullish for gold, silver and the mining stocks.
Now granted, mining CEOs tend to lean on the bullish side, but the feeling in the room was one of genuine optimism for the sector a far cry from the gloomy feeling of PDAC circa 2012 - 2015. In fact, in our chat with Randgolds chief Mark Bristow, he explained how in the past twenty years, he has never seen the stars so perfectly aligned for the price of gold.
However, most CEOs did caution for the industry to not get ahead of itself, with the warning being, lets use the current gold price to clean up the sector, but lets not get too excited.
And then there was our chat with Sandstorms (SAND) Nolan Watson we received many emails after this one, most applauding Watson for shedding light on an unspoken industry issue. During the interview, Watson said "... There are a lot of assets out there that are fundamentally wrong and broken, and CEOs are lying to their shareholders about it and I think something needs to be addressed. 43-101 attempts to do it, but it's still not working." Watch the full interview.
While the majority of CEOs seemed unfazed by rate hike talks, possibly putting a kink in golds stride, the marketplace was definitely feeling it this Friday. The metals complex succumbed to the growing reality that the Fed is raising rates, possibly as early as March. Gold lost the $1,237 level and promptly traded to the next support line of $1,225The March Fed meeting may prove a buying opportunity, as traders price in the hike in advance, but the key will be forward guidance, Peter Hug, Kitcos global trading director, wrote in his morning commentary.
And this afternoon, Fed Chair Janet Yellen basically sealed the fate of a March rate hike. She noted that recent economic improvements will be a big part of the discussion at the March 14-15 Federal Open Market Committee meeting.
Following Yellens address at the Executives' Club of Chicago, April Comex gold futures settled at $1226.50 an ounce, down $6.40 on the day.
As we prepare for a heavy week of PDAC coverage the worlds largest mining gathering I would like to thank the Kitco News team that makes these conferences come together: from our world-class production team of Sarah Benali and Louie Perez; our dedicated editor Neils Christensen; content support from Hong Pan; our advertising manager Carlos Madruga and last but not least, our relentless and visionary media director, John Dourekas..Un gros MERCI! A special thanks to mining brainiac David Erfle for all his help and suggestions. It really does take a village to bring it all to you, our cherished readers and viewers!
We hope you enjoyed the coverage and love next weeks more so!
Off to Toronto,
BRATISLAVA, March 3 (Reuters) - Slovakia will look to issue another syndicated eurobond in a benchmark size of 1 billion euros and with a maturity of around 10 years in the autumn, the head of the state debt agency Daniel Bytcanek said on Friday.
He told reporters the financing plan this year was set at 6.5 billion euros, and added it would adjust the size of domestic auctions accepting more bids than planned on Thursday when it issued a 20-year eurobond.
On Thursday, Slovakia sold a 2 billion euros of the new paper, pricing it at 68 basis points over mid-swaps and garnering demand of 3.2 billion euros. (Reporting by Tatiana Jancarikova; Editing by Jason Hovet)
ZURICH, March 3 (Reuters) - The Swiss blue-chip SMI was seen opening down 0.25 percent at 8,640 points on Friday, according to premarket indications by bank Julius Baer .
The following are some of the main factors expected to affect Swiss stocks.
SWISS LIFE The Swiss life insurer on Friday proposed to boost its dividend to 11 Swiss francs per share for 2016 after full-year net profit rose 5 percent to 926 million Swiss francs ($914.6 million). For more click ZURICH INSURANCE The Swiss insurer paid Chief Executive Mario Greco 7.8 million francs in compensation for 2016 after he joined in March last year, Zurich said in its annual report published on Friday. Greco is also getting a separate 4.2 million franc payment, vesting in 2019, for forfeiting an incentive package with his previous employer. For more click COMPANY STATEMENTS ** Coltene said it proposed Astrid Waser as a new director, to replace Robert Heberlein who is resigning. ** Swissquote said net profit in 2016 rose to 20.8 million francs, up from 2.1 million francs. It proposed an unchanged distribution of 0.60 francs per share. ** Calida said it boosted 2016 sales by 3 percent to 370.9 million francs, with its operating result rising 3.3 percent to 22.3 million francs. It said 2017 will be a "year of transition." ** Allreal Holding AG said it issued a 160 million Swiss francs ($158.24 million) bond to refinance existing liabilities. ** Kudelski SA said its OpenTV, Inc. and Nagravision S.A. subsidiaries have filed a patent infringement suit against Shaw Communications, Inc. in federal court in Canada. ** VP Bank had its rating confirmed "A" by Standard & Poor's, which boosted its outlook to "positive" from "stable." ECONOMY (Reporting by Zurich newsroom)
Daily Swiss stock market report in German................ All SMI constituent stocks............................ News on major Swiss stock price moves.................. FTSE Eurotop 300 index................................ DJ STOXX index........................................ Top 10 STOXX sectors............................. Top 10 EUROSTOXX sectors........................ Top 10 Eurotop 300 sectors....................... Top 25 European pct gainers... , losers... Swiss mid-cap index SMI futures Swiss all-share index Market statistics Swiss market digest Sector overview All Swiss news Swiss research news All equity news INTERNET ADDRESSES: Swiss Exchange / Eurex STOXX Ltd SPEED GUIDES: ))
Keywords: MARKETS SWISS STOCKS/
(Updates throughout with details, context)
By Marcela Ayres
BRASILIA, March 3 (Reuters) - The head of Brazil's lower house of Congress spoke in defense of the government's pension reform plan on Friday, dialing back recent criticism and fueling hopes of swift passage of the bill.
Speaking to journalists after meeting with the finance minister and the pension secretary, House Speaker Rodrigo Maia called the proposal from President Michel Temer's administration the best way to rebalance government accounts.
The pension reform is at the heart of Temer's efforts to cut government spending and regain investor trust as Latin America's largest economy edges closer to recovering from its worst recession on record. All male workers under 50 years of age and female workers under 45 would be subject to the new rules, which aim to reduce retirement benefits for both public and private employees. Older workers would fall under a transition plan.
Maia acknowledged the transition rules were "controversial," but said Pension Secretary Marcelo Caetano had convinced him of their merits. "Up until last week, I believed that we should consider expanding (the transition program)," he said. "Now I'm convinced that is not the case."
After passing a constitutional amendment last year limiting growth of public spending, Temer is racing to get approval of proposals that would allow the government to meet the new budget cap.
Maia said the lower house would probably vote on the pension bill in the second half of April, paving the way for a final Senate vote.
He said he would also speak with leading lawmakers about voting next week on a bill to shore up the finances of states suffering a crippling fiscal crisis. (Reporting by Marcela Ayres; Writing by Bruno Federowski; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Lisa Von Ahn)
* Cenbank is already buying FX for finmin
* To halve purchases this month to $54 mln/day
* Finmin starts to set aside forex this month separately
* Forex to be used to meet budget external obligations
(Adds details, quotes, background)
By Darya Korsunskaya and Elena Fabrichnaya
MOSCOW, March 3 (Reuters) - Russia's finance ministry started saving foreign currency this month to meet non-rouble budget liabilities, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said on Friday.
Russia had already resumed buying dollars and euros last month, part of an effort to replenish the country's depleted reserves. It had not previously bought foreign currency since 2015.
The central bank buys currency on behalf of the finance ministry, which, in turn, has said it will be used to rebuild the Reserve Fund, one of two Russian sovereign wealth funds. "The rouble rate is attractive now from the point of view of meeting budget liabilities in foreign currency. So since the start of March, we have started to accumulate forex liquidity in treasury accounts," Siluanov said on Friday.
Siluanov did not say how much the finance ministry had already set aside and which tool it was using to get the foreign currency. The Russian budget receives revenues in roubles.
"These are funds which we need to meet the budget's current liabilities in forex in 2017," Siluanov said. He did not provide other details and the finance ministry declined additional comments.
A source close to the finance ministry said that the foreign currency accumulation and the central bank purchases were separate. The ministry was setting apart forex liquidity to meet the budget's external obligations in the past as well, he said.
The source added that the ministry, which oversees the rouble-denominated budget, needs foreign currency to make external debt repayments, as well contributions to international organisations of which Russia is a member.
"Technically, the treasury is writing up a letter to the central bank, saying how much forex it needs. The central bank will decide on its own whether to buy this forex on the market or make an internal conversion," the source said.
The central bank did not immediately reply to Reuters' request seeking a comment.
Separately, the ministry said on Friday that the central bank will nearly halve its daily forex purchases in March, buying the equivalent of 3.2 billion roubles a day ($54.3 million) after purchasing around $106 million a day in Feb. The rouble was slightly up after the ministry announced the reduction of daily forex purchases, to trade at 58.85 versus the U.S. dollar at 1208 GMT, down 0.08 percent.
(Writing by Andrey Ostroukh/Katya Golubkova; Editing by)
USA Today reports:
Canadas immigration system, which President Trump praised Tuesday night, has served as a model for countries around the world because it focuses more on immigrants who can contribute to the economy than those with little more than family ties.
About 63% of those granted legal permanent residence in Canada the final step before becoming citizens are admitted for their economic skills, with only 24% admitted based on having family members living in the country. The U.S. system is reversed: 63% of green cards are given to immigrants with family connections, and only 13% given based on economic reasons.
Canada was also the first country to use a point system to grade economic immigrants a 100-point scale that rewards foreigners with PhDs and extensive work experience in specialized fields.
During Trumps address to a joint session of Congress, he praised the system used by Canada, Australia and many other nations during a portion of his speech that called for reforming an outdated legal immigration system that hurts American workers.
Switching away from this current system of lower-skilled immigration, and instead adopting a merit-based system, will have many benefits, Trump said. It will save countless dollars, raise workers wages, and help struggling families including immigrant families enter the middle class.
Stuff reports:
The tills will be quiet in Wellington this Easter Sunday when thousands of cruise ship passengers are in town. Wellington City Council ran out of time to consult on new trading laws, leaving some retailers angry they wont be allowed to open this year. Retail NZ spokesman Greg Harford said the delay meant both retailers and visitors would miss out.
They didnt run out of time to consult. They failed to consult. Other Councils managed to do so. The law change was known long ago.
Spokesman for the council, Clayton Anderson, said there wasnt enough time to consult on Easter opening for next month but it would review the laws and consult retailers later this year. In August 2016, Government gave councils the power to decide if shops can open on Easter Sunday.
Is the Council saying seven months is not enough time?
Wellington Chamber of Commerce chief executive John Milford said the Easter closure was a missed opportunity for city retailers but sympathised with the council. Earthquake strengthening and other, more important, issues had to be dealt with first, he said. Under normal circumstances it would have gone through the process.
Surely the Council can do more than one thing at a time?
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Shenandoah, IA (51601)
Today
Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low around 30F. Winds light and variable..
Tonight
Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low around 30F. Winds light and variable.
By Kang Seung-woo
In the wake of China's ban on tours to Korea via travel agencies, the local tourism industry, including duty-free stores and hotels, is increasingly showing concern.
As Beijing's retaliatory measures against Seoul's decision to deploy a U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery here are at an early stage, it is too early to gauge how much the fallout will affect the industry.
But given that some 70 percent of Chinese tourists visiting Korea are presumed to use travel agencies, there are growing concerns that the relevant businesses inevitably will be hit hard if China continues such actions.
The China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) instructed travel agencies in Beijing, Thursday, to suspend sales of all travel packages - both online and offline - to Korea, ordering them to expedite those that have already been sold by mid-March.
According to the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), 8.06 million Chinese tourists visited Korea last year, accounting for 46.8 percent of the all foreign visitors (17.2 million). They are estimated to have spent an average of $2,391 (2.76 million won) per person. Should Korea lose half of its Chinese tourists, it is expected to see its tourism revenue decrease by $9.63 billion.
"Considering the Chinese government's control on free trips sold by travel agencies, more than 60 percent of Chinese tourists visiting Korea are estimated to be affected," said Yoo Sung-man, an analyst at HMC Investment Securities.
Amid the escalating concern over the fallout from China's retaliation, the nation's duty-free industry is expected to take the hardest hit as their business is heavily dependent on Chinese tourists who spend big on shopping.
Last year, local duty-free stores raked in 12.27 trillion won ($10.6 billion) in total sales, of which about 70 percent, or 8.6 trillion won, came from Chinese travelers.
By Yoon Ja-young
Korea's trade minister is scheduled to meet his U.S. counterpart to stress how the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS-FTA) has benefited the two countries following a report by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) that added concerns the U.S. may demand a renegotiation of the pact.
According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, Minister Joo Hyung-hwan will visit Washington D.C. next week, where he will meet U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, U.S. Senate Committee on Finance member Ron Wyden, Heritage Foundation former President Edwin Feulner and other key figures.
The ministry explained that they will share views on how the KORUS-FTA mutually benefited the two parties, as well as seeking further cooperation.
The minister's visit to the U.S. comes amid growing controversy over a USTR report, which is leading to speculation that the U.S. may demand a renegotiation of the pact. In the President's 2017 Trade Policy Agenda, the USTR noted that the trade deficit in goods with Korea more than doubled following the FTA.
It cited statistics, according to which the total value of U.S. goods exported to Korea fell by $1.2 billion, while U.S. imports of goods from Korea grew by more than $13 billion from 2011 to 2016.
"Needless to say, this is not the outcome the American people expected from that agreement," it noted.
By Nam Hyun-woo
Woori Bank's plan to transform into a holding firm is picking up momentum with it selecting advisers for legal and accounting issues.
According to the Seoul-based lender Friday, it appointed Kim & Chang and Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers as its consultants to introduce a holding firm system.
"The two advisers will study the feasibility of our transformation into a holding company format," a Woori official said.
The move came after the Feb. 28 meeting between Woori Bank's officials and outside directors, who oversee the bank's management. They are newly appointed by new shareholders, who bought 4 percent-plus stakes in the bank previously owned by the government.
According to sources, the bank has conducted its own feasibility study to explain the results to outside directors.
"What is clear is that outside directors were on the same page as Woori regarding the holding firm scheme," an outside director of Woori told The Korea Times. "We have carried out a reality check on the idea to learn its potential benefits."
According to him, the Korea Deposit Insurance Corporation (KDIC) holds "the key" in the decision making process, because the government-run deposit insurer still has the largest 21.4 percent stake in the bank, though it sold its 29.7 percent stake to seven entities in 4 to 6 percent lots last year.
The KDIC has to sell its shares at 15,000 won at least, in order to fully retrieve taxpayers' money poured into the bank. Woori was trading at 13,400 won as of 3 p.m. Friday.
Given that a company's transformation into a holding firm generally brings a rise in its stock price, observers speculate that the KDIC has no reason to oppose the plan.
With the plan picking up speed, some anticipated that the bank may apply for the change to the financial regulator as early as next month, but the bank stressed that it will not hurry.
"The board meeting held today (Friday) was about setting an agenda for a March 24 general shareholders' meeting and it did not include the issue of the holding firm plan, because it is not concrete now," the Woori official said.
According to the official, the bank wants to wrap up the restructuring by the end of this year. After finishing internal talks, it will make an application for preliminary approval by the Financial Services Commission (FSC). It will take up to 60 days for the FSC to review it. After that, the bank is supposed to apply for final approval, which the regulator will take up to 30 days for review.
Fans of Japanese best-selling author Haruki Murakami line up next to a display of the new book "Kishidancho Goroshi," or "Killing Commendatore," at Kinokuniya bookstore in Shinjuku district, Tokyo, Japan, just after midnight on Feb. 24. / EPA-Yonhap
Advance royalties expected to reach 2 billion won
By Kwon Mee-yoo
Haruki Murakami
Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami is off and running again. His latest full-length novel, "Killing Commendatore," was released in Japan Feb. 24 and people have queued to get their hands on the highly anticipated book.
The novel, in two parts "Arawareru Idea" (Emerging Idea) and "Utsurou Metaphor" (Moving Metaphor) is Murakami's first multi-volume novel in seven years, following "1Q84" in 2009
Shinchosha Publishing printed 1.3 million copies of the first edition 700,000 copies of part 1 and 600,000 copies of part 2.
According to AP, the novel is a two-part story about a portrait painter, 36, and what happens after his wife divorces him and he moves into an old house on a mountainside west of Tokyo.
The mysterious events include meeting a neighbor and finding a painting that shares the book's title. Murakami, 67, has described it as a very strange story.
Murakami's popularity is not limited to Asia. He is often mentioned as a possible candidate for the Nobel Prize in Literature.
He also won the Frank O'Connor International Short Story Award in 2006, the Jerusalem Prize in 2009 and the Hans Christian Andersen Literature Award in 2015. Murakami was named one of the TIME 100's most influential people in the world in 2015.
Shinchosha Publishing said overseas availability has not yet been decided on, but the esoteric novel will surely be available to international readers soon.
Murakami boom in Korea
Murakami is one of Korea's most-read foreign novelists The Murakami boom, known as the "Haruki Syndrome" here, is backed by strong sales.
Recently, a redesigned, limited edition of "Norwegian Wood," celebrating the 30th anniversary of the book's release, topped the best-sellers chart. His previous book "Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage" has sold 400,000 copies and accumulated sales of the three-volume "1Q84" reached 2 million.
Previously, major publishers such as Minumsa, Munhaksasang, Munhakdongne and Viche have printed Murakami books in Korea and many publishing companies will be racing to secure the Korean edition.
According to publishing insiders, the two previous Murakami books received around 1 to 1.5 billion won in advance against royalties and they expect the advance for "Killing Commendatore" might reach 2 billion won because the Murakami book will be a big event in the depressed Korean book market.
The Korean licensing agency will receive the amount of advance, design concept and promotion plan from the publishers and Murakami will decide which company gets the Korean rights.
The Korean edition of "Killing Commendatore" is expected to be published in summer.
Ri Tong Il addresses journalists outside the North Korean embassy in Kuala Lumpur on Mar. 2. / AFP-Yonhap
By Ko Dong-hwan
A North Korean representative has denied the Malaysian health authority's latest statement that the half-brother of the military regime's leader died from a poisonous chemical, arguing that he had a heart attack.
Ri Tong-il, the former North Korean deputy ambassador to the United Nations, said on Mar. 2 that Kim Jong-nam, whom he instead referred to as Kim Chol as shown on his passport, had a history of heart disease.
He said Kim "had treatment from time to time while being hospitalized" and "under normal conditions, he cannot travel without medicine for heart disease, as well as for diabetes and high blood pressure," according to Malaysian daily New Straits Times.
"This is a strong indication that the cause of death was a heart attack," Ri told reporters outside the North Korean embassy.
Ri denied the Malaysian health ministry's conclusion after conducting an autopsy that Kim died after two woman attacked him with VX nerve agent.
Indonesian Siti Aisyah and Vietnamese Doan Thi Huong attacked Kim at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Feb. 13 in a hit-and-run assassination with what was allegedly a poisonous chemical. Waiting for a flight to Macau alone at that time, he had sought medical help at the airport but died in less than half an hour.
This photo, from a Japanese news outlet, reportedly was taken at a club in the Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore in 2013. Kim Jong-nam has the same tattoo on his stomach, (circled) as the tattoo on the male body that has been in the Kuala Lumpur Hospital morgue since Feb. 15. The man was attacked with the deadly VX chemical agent at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. / Courtesy of online community
Ri's denial of the Malaysian ministry's toxicology report was based on an inference that no others who could have been in contact with VX had died.
Referring to the agent as "an extremely toxic material categorized as a chemical weapon by the Organizations for the Prohibition for Chemical Weapons," he said none of the tens of thousands of people at the airport was reportedly contaminated or affected by the airborne agent.
"There were policemen and doctors who escorted the deceased to the hospital but none of them were affected by this very toxic material," he said.
He further questioned how the two suspects who manually delivered the material on to Kim's face could have survived the agent.
The Malaysian daily, meanwhile, has unearthed a new photograph that confirms Kim's identity. The photo of Kim with his friends shows a tattoo on his stomach and another on his left arm. The one on his stomach particularly shows an Asian man reeling in a Japanese carp.
The photo, taken in 2013 at a club in the Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore, was sent to a female Japanese journalist named Mizumi Fujita, who has known Kim for more than 10 years.
The tattoos are identical to those on the man whose body has been in the Kuala Lumpur Hospital morgue since Feb. 15 after the airport attack.
The latest evidence is expected to add weight to the belief that the dead man is Kim Jong-nam.
The U.S. State Department expressed concern Thursday about a series of retaliatory measures China has been taking against South Korean businesses over Seoul's decision to host the U.S. THAAD missile defense system, calling the reaction "unreasonable and inappropriate."
"We are concerned and closely monitoring reports that China has taken actions against South Korean private sector entities for the U.S.-ROK (South Korea) decision to deploy THAAD in the ROK," a State Department spokesperson told Yonhap News Agency on background.
"As THAAD is a prudent and limited self-defense measure designed to respond to a clear, reckless and unlawful North Korean military threat, criticism or pressure on the ROK to abandon its self-defense would be unreasonable and inappropriate," the official said.
The spokesperson also said that the U.S. stands by its "ironclad commitment" to the defense of allies, and will "continue to develop a comprehensive set of alliance capabilities to counter the growing North Korean ballistic missile threat."
Asked if the U.S. has any plans to talk to China about the issue, the official said, "We remain in contact with the Chinese at the highest levels."
It was the first time that the U.S. has officially denounced China's reprisal measures against THAAD's deployment. That shows the administration of President Donald Trump has been taking a tougher stance on Beijing than the previous Barack Obama administration.
By Kim Ji-soo
Kim Su-gyeom, 53, head of Ginseng Biotechnology in Dangjin, South Chungcheong Province, remembers eating grilled ginseng while he was helping his parents grow ginseng on their farm. Grilling over a fire took away the bitter taste, and heightened the sweetness of the popular health food. Now as head of Ginseng Biotechnology, he has signed a contract with a distributor in China to sell his baked ginseng. The amount is small at the moment, 10 boxes of 200 ginseng products, all worth about $6,000.
Ginseng is a popular export of Korea, but by carving out a niche product, Kim is looking to increase trade volume in the coming days.
"My parents and I have been ginseng farmers all our lives, so I thought about how I could make ginseng more available," he said.
Kim, who has a farm 99,000 square meters in size, said he was also focused on sending his ginseng overseas, where the demand is while the domestic market is saturated. Unlike the broadly consumed red ginseng, which is simply steamed, Kim says he "bakes" the ginseng harvested from his farm at 200 degrees Celsius or higher with special equipment. His firm shares a patent with Chungnam National University. Baked at such a temperature, the ginseng is able to retain its beneficial elements, most notably saponin. Also baked ginseng tastes sweeter, "sweeter than strawberry," Kim said over the telephone. "Our product is called baked red ginseng."
Kim said while the exports to China were the first for his firm, he recently had buyers who came in from Australia and Dubai interested in his products.
The ginseng agricultural cooperatives in North Chungcheong Province also said they were loading ginseng for a $3.6 million export contract signed with Japanese companies last year, and that they were looking to export $4 million this year.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs said Feb. 21 it signed a memorandum of understanding between Hadong County, known for its green tea growers in South Gyeongsang Province, and an export company to send more premium green tea to the U.S. and EU markets. Hadong has been exporting ground green tea for a while to eight countries including Mexico and Singapore.
"Our contract is estimated at 100 tons, which we will start exporting the new tea in summer," said Lee Jong-gug, head of the Institute of Hadong Green Tea. Korean green tea growing operations are not large. Compared to some 1.2 million hectares of tea-growing land in China and around 40,000 hectares in Japan, Korea's tea growing is estimated at around 2,500 hectares, Lee said. But known for its organically grown tea, the county's product has been sought since 2010 and 2011, in particular end-buyers that include Starbucks noticed the quality of its tea and management. The tea market in United States based on wholesale terms was estimated at $10 billion in 2014 and is expected to grow by 30 percent in 2017. The expansion of the world's tea market buoys hopes for further exports.
"I think overseas buyers have realized we are able to produce quality tea," Lee said.
People working in the green tea fields in Hadong, South Gyeongsang Province, which is a region known for its organically grown green tea laves. / Courtesy of Institute of Hadong Gree Tea
The city of Tongyeong, South Gyeongsang Province, said it was exporting oysters to Russia. The southeastern city has joined hands with Russian fisheries goods supplier Nordlat to promote and export fisheries goods. A city delegation was in Russia this week, leading to the signing of an export order for 200 tons of oysters, Yonhap reported. As Korea imports large quantities of Russian pollack,cod and king crab, it is looking to expand its export base to oysters.
To date, Korean frozen fishery and seaweed products have been exported to Russia in insignificant amounts. In 2015, Korea exported $16.5 million of fishery products to Russia while importing $670 million.
Export of Korean agricultural food products is not large. In 2016, it posted $6.5 billion. Because different government agencies tally up respective statistics, that figure excludes the fisheries exports. Also, the sales of food products such as Korean instant noodles are included in the export tally. These showed a 5.9 percent increase when the national exports decreased by 5.9 percent in 2016, posting $495.5 billion according to WTO numbers and giving a reason why agricultural and food produce are considered a rising export item.
By Choi Ha-young
Rep. Shim Jae-kwon
Korea may have to shoulder a bigger financial burden than expected to deploy and operate a United States-made anti-ballistic missile system on its soil, opposition lawmakers said.
Since the country decided to install the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery, doubts on transport expenses and the costs to install it here have not faded away.
Originally, Defense Minister Han Min-koo said Korea would bear no additional cost except for providing the site. However, some opposition lawmakers have pointed out that the U.S. has not allocated a budget for it. Regarding this, Rep. Shim Jae-kwon of the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) and chairman of the National Assembly Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee presented three possible scenarios.
"First, the U.S. may not be fully prepared to deploy it on time for practical reasons," Shim said in an interview with The Korea Times, Feb. 22. "Secondly, it may demand Korea share the expense unlike the previous agreement. Last, it may use money deposited in the Community Bank."
The Community Bank is a Department of Defense-owned bank in charge of managing the cost of U.S. forces stationed overseas, including U.S. Forces Korea (USFK).
Acting Constitutional Court President Lee Jung-mi gets out of her car on her way to the court, in Jongno, downtown Seoul, Friday. Supreme Court Chief Justice Yang Seung-tae will soon recommend a new justice to succeed the outgoing Lee, who retires March 13. / Yonhap
By Lee Kyung-min
Supreme Court Chief Justice Yang Seung-tae will soon recommend a new constitutional court judge to succeed the outgoing acting court President Lee Jung-mi, according to legal circles, Friday.
A number of former and incumbent district court heads and senior judges, both men and women, are under consideration.
Lee, who is set to retire March 13, was recommended in March 2011 by former Supreme Court Chief Justice Lee Yong-hoon, who was appointed by the liberal ex-President Roh Moo-hyun.
As Lee was among the three justices recommended by Supreme Court chief justice, the vacancy can be filled by sitting Chief Justice Yang who was appointed by former President Lee Myung-bak, a conservative.
Under the law, of the nine justices, the president, Supreme Court chief justice and the National Assembly recommend three each. All nine are the appointed by the president.
The recommend figure by Yang will undergo a National Assembly confirmation hearing before acting President and Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn finalizes the appointment.
This is likely to trigger opposition from the ruling Liberty Korea Party members, loyal to President Park Geun-hye, who earlier came under heavy criticism for demanding that Hwang recommend a Constitutional Court justice to fill the vacancy left by the retirement of former court President Park Han-chul, who was recommended by former President Lee.
The demand was interpreted as part of Park's strategic moves to increase the chances of her impeachment being overturned by adding a justice loyal to her.
Meanwhile, the Korean Bar Association issued a statement, Thursday, stressing the need for a woman to fill Lee's vacancy.
"We demand that at least one out of nine justices be a woman who will defend women's rights, as it is deemed the minimum requirement for the court to uphold the constitutional spirit," it said in the statement.
By Kim Bo-eun
Independent counsel Park Young-soo said Friday former presidential secretary Woo Byung-woo exerted influence on investigations into the Sewol ferry disaster in 2014.
Park also said that if another arrest warrant is sought for Woo, it will definitely be approved.
The counsel team requested a warrant to arrest Woo last week, but the court denied approval.
Park said the team was unable to seek a second warrant, due to time constraints. The team's 90-day mandate expired Tuesday.
Meanwhile, a controversy is stirring after it was disclosed that Woo made frequent contact with high-level officials at the prosecution and Ministry of Justice even after he became a target of investigations by the prosecution last year.
Independent presidential investigator Lee Seok-soo requested the prosecution to look into charges Woo faces such as embezzling funds of a family-run company and exerting influence for his son to get a "soft" position while serving his military duty.
The local daily Hankyoreh reported that the counsel team confirmed Woo made around 20 calls to Prosecutor General Kim Soo-nam from July to October last year.
Woo and Kim spoke on the phone the day Woo's son and his family-run company, Jeonggang, reportedly became the target of an investigation Aug. 16.
They made calls also three days before the prosecution's search of Jeonggang on Aug. 29. The search did not find any evidence of allegations that Woo embezzled company funds.
Woo and Lee Young-ryeol, head of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office spoke over the phone after the report that President Park Geun-hye's speech drafts were found on a tablet computer belonging to her confidant Choi Soon-sil, Oct. 25.
The counsel team secured Woo's call records during its investigations into the former presidential secretary.
The prosecution said the calls were made for work purposes, and did not concern the ongoing investigation of Woo.
However, there are views that it is inappropriate for someone being investigated to make calls to high-ranking officials at the prosecution.
Woo also allegedly made around 1,000 calls to An Tae-geun, a high ranking official at the justice ministry in charge of overseeing the prosecution's investigations, from July to October last year.
On certain days, as many as several dozen calls were made between Woo and An.
At the National Assembly's audit of the justice ministry last October, lawmakers questioned An about whether he had made contact with Woo with regards to his investigations, but An denied it.
Kim Chong-in
By Rachel Lee
Rep. Kim Chong-in, the former interim leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), said Friday that he was "deceived" by the party, which has not been active in promoting his signature initiative of "economic democratization."
He hinted that he could leave the party, probably after the Constitutional Court makes a ruling about President Park Geun-hye's impeachment. Sources close to Kim said that he could seek to run for the presidency himself.
The move comes as the opposition party has shown a rather lukewarm attitude toward the economic democratisation policies long pursued by the lawmaker.
The DPK has pledged to push for economic democratization in an attempt to ease polarization between top conglomerates and smaller companies, and the rich and the poor. However, the party's revision bill to the Commercial Law to achieve economic democratization failed to pass at a plenary session at the National Assembly, Thursday.
Kim expressed his disappointment over the failure of the passage and criticized both the ruling and the main opposition parties for skipping out on their promise to realize economic democratization.
"I was deceived," Kim told reporters, expressing dissatisfaction at the party leadership including former leader and leading presidential contender Moon Jae-in.
"The party said it would pass the bill for sure, but none of the party members showed enthusiasm about it," he said.
Apparently targeting Moon, Kim said economic democratization cannot be achieved without the country's leader's "consciousness and will."
"Some say economic democratization is a populist policy. But they have no idea what economic democratization means and what populism means."
Kim also criticized the influx of text messages from Moon supporters to a group of DPK lawmakers that seeks constitutional reform ahead of the presidential election. Moon has been reluctant on the reform, which is aimed at the current single-term, five-year presidency, and a group of lawmakers has demanded he clarify his stance over the issue.
Rumors about Kim leaving the DPK have been around for a long time, but there had been no particular sign recently, which raised speculation that Kim could remain in the party backing South Chungcheong Province Governor An Hee-jung, one of the leading presidential contenders.
About this, Kim said, "We'll see after the impeachment ruling."
By Jun Ji-hye
The government should open dialogue with China at various levels as a first step to resolve an escalating conflict over South Korea's plan to deploy a U.S. anti-missile system here, analysts said Friday.
The suggestion comes amid growing expectations that Beijing's economic and cultural retaliations against Seoul will intensify further especially after Lotte Group signed a land swap deal with the Ministry of National Defense, Feb. 28, to provide the government with a site for hosting the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery.
China has already begun various retaliatory actions including halting Lotte's theme park construction in Shenyang as well as subjecting its Chinese affiliates to unusual tax audits and surprise fire safety inspections.
Besides Lotte, concerns are growing that other South Korean companies such as Samsung and Hyundai could also become the target of China's retaliation.
Sejong University Prof. Lee Moon-ki said China's actions are becoming more and more explicit, and it could be very difficult for the two sides to resolve the escalating conflict.
"The government needs to make efforts to expand dialogue," he said. "If it is hard to hold government-to-government talks, diplomacy by lawmakers as well as semi-official talks needs to be utilized."
As part of those efforts, the government will bring the issue up at the Seoul and Beijing high-level talks and the free trade agreement (FTA) working-level negotiations, which are scheduled for sometime in March and April, according to the ruling Liberty Korea Party (LKP) spokesman Rep. Kim Myung-yeon.
"THAAD deployment is just a self-defense measure not aimed at any countries apart from North Korea," Kim said after a meeting between officials from the government and the LKP. "South Korea will stress that China's actions using trade matters are just unreasonable."
During the meeting, acting President and Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn stressed that the THAAD battery is a vital defense measure to meet national security needs, making it clear once again that Seoul will push forward with the installation as planned despite objections raised by Beijing.
He then vowed to "prepare necessary countermeasures at the appropriate time," referring to China's actions.
Ahn Cheol-soo, right, the former co-chairman and presidential hopeful of the opposition People's Party, shakes hands with the another party presidential contender, Sohn Hak-kyu, while attending a gathering of the Federation of Professional Economic Person Societies in central Seoul, Friday. The two have had a disagreement over how to select the party's presidential candidate, and the party suspended talks on this following dispute between the two. / Korea Times photo by Oh Dae-geun
By Walt Gardner
Pressure to prepare children for the realities of the global economy has turned nursery schools in South Korea and the United States into mini test-preparation factories. In the process, great harm is unwittingly being done.
In Seoul's affluent neighborhoods, two-year-olds are tutored in math, science and writing in the belief that doing so provides them with a leg up. But research has shown that this strategy is counterproductive. Toddlers need time to engage in unsupervised play. It's there that they learn invaluable social and emotional skills.
The U.S. is no less guilty. A major evaluation of Tennessee's publicly funded preschool system found that children exposed to academic skills so early in life performed worse on tests measuring literacy, language and math by the time they entered the second grade. The over reliance on drilling destroyed their enthusiasm. In short, emphasis on academic skills too early had unintended consequences.
Despite the evidence, parents in South Korea and the U.S. can't shake the guilt they feel if they don't join in the frenzy. It takes courage to resist. Complicating matters are cultural beliefs and values. What influences parents in one country does not necessarily play a role in another.
If there is one factor, however, that transcends national borders, it's the importance of the interaction between teacher and child. That's largely dependent on the kind of training teachers receive. For example, Finland, which is known for the quality of its schools, doesn't begin formal reading instruction until children are seven. Teachers there believe that the basis for the beginnings of literacy is that children have been spoken to and have been listened to.
Whether teachers in South Korea and the U.S. can resist the pressure to produce quantifiable outcomes in nursery school is another question. The obsession with accountability continues to grow.
Walt Gardner writes the Reality Check blog for Education Week in the U.S. Write to walt.gard@verizon.net.
By Jason Lim
Back in 2001, I visited China to go to Mount Baekdu, which sits along the border between northeastern China and North Korea and is considered the mythical birthplace of the Korean nation. Its place in the Korean creation myth is so important that Kim Jong-il's official bio claims that he was born on the mountain, although Soviet records say that he was really born in the village of Vyatskoye, near Khabarovsk in Russia.
In any case, I actually wanted to talk about getting on a bus in Jilin to ride for four hours along a brand new highway to reach Mount Baekdu. While the highway was new, everything else was still old, including what passed for roadside bathrooms that should have been more accurately named organic fertilizer storage facilities. But what struck me was that everyone carried a cell phone, even the old Korean-Chinese owner of the pork barbeque restaurant that we stopped at for a quick bite. Seeing that cellphones were still not commoditized even back in the U.S., this was a bit surprising. In fact, the guide told me that China wasn't laying down any phone line since the future was cellular communications. China was all about putting up cell towers and skipping phone lines altogether.
I tell this story to make the point that today's infrastructure is not tomorrow's infrastructure. Take autonomous driving, for example. If autonomous driving vehicles become the norm in a few decades and revolutionize how we travel by car, what's critical infrastructure then?
Do you still need traffic lights when cars would be able to sense each other's locations and adjust accordingly in real time to avoid collisions? After all, what's a traffic light if not a crude means of communication between groups of human drivers? Would you still need parking lots in an autonomous Uber-like environment when you won't need to own cars anymore since autonomous cars will be at your digital beck and call, customized to your life patterns?
What about all the pipelines that we need to transport crude oil to refineries, in addition to tanker trucks, underground gas storage facilities, gas stations, and numerous other subcomponents of the huge infrastructure that we have built around our society's dependence on petroleum for energy? If Elon Musk's electric cars, home battery packs, and solar roofs become the new norm, do we still need to pump oil and transport it to somewhere else?
On the other hand, you would still definitely need Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity _ this would definitely be considered critical infrastructure since everything will stop functioning without that constant connectivity. The connectivity speed will be just as important because it would literally be a matter of life or death when your car is crossing that intersection at 80mph.
What about banking? Bitcoin just passed the price of gold in the stock market for the first time this week. If blockchain technology becomes the new norm in financial dealings, as well as any type of informational exchange between entities, what is the critical infrastructure that we would need to support that new transaction model? Certainly cybersecurity, resiliency, and robustness that support any such transactions would have to be considered critical infrastructure. In this case, infrastructure is not just physical constructs, but would include people, processes, and technology.
What about social media? If social media becomes the standard platform for connecting people, can it be considered critical infrastructure, rather than just an application running on a critical infrastructure? How widely does a technology have to be adopted in order for it to graduate from being nice to have to critical to have?
These changes are coming. No one knows for sure what will disappear as a one-hit wonder and what will stick around to define the new normal. One thing we know, however, is that today's infrastructure isn't tomorrow's infrastructure. And tomorrow's critical infrastructure won't be solely made up of physical "things."
Correctly predicting what tomorrow's infrastructure will be and investing accordingly will be the competitive edge that municipalities and even nations will have to come out ahead in the next decades. If you are still laying down telephone lines while everyone's talking on the cellphone, then you are Western Union in the world of Bell. Or Pony Express in the era of FedEx. And so on.
Jason Lim is a Washington D.C.-based expert on innovation, leadership and organizational culture. He has been writing for The Korea Times since 2006. Reach him at jasonlim@msn.com, facebook.com/jasonlimkoreatimes or @jasonlim2012.
By Oh Young-jin
What are the odds of the next president getting impeached?
If we put the weathermen's probability to the extreme, it would be safe to say that the odds are greater than before. If you insist on knowing "before what," what here is the traumatic experience we are now undergoing in connection with the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye.
Here is one very subjective call involved.
Would people want to relive this excoriating period?
They don't but it is unavoidable. After all, humans are creatures of habit.
There is proof of sorts already. Hwang Kyo-an, prime minister who acts as president, decided not to grant an extension on the special prosecutor's probe into the so-called Choi Soon-sil-gate, named after Park's alter ego, the central figure of the scandal that has shaken the nation to its foundation. The opposition parties threatened to impeach Hwang as well.
Numbers can play a role in that political apocalyptical scenario.
Polls show that any candidate who wins the ticket of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) will likely win the presidential election, whether it is frontrunner Moon Jae-in, a losing candidate in the previous election, dark horse An Hee-jung, governor of South Cheongchung Province, or maverick Seongnam Mayor Lee Jae-myung. The impeachment saga has put the conservatives in total disarray.
Not factored in is the likelihood that the winning candidate gains a "true majority."
The total eligible voters for the election likely in May is about 42 million, calculated for the general elections last year. If 70 percent cast ballots, it would be about 29 million. One can win the election on anything over the majority or about 15 million. But one can dispute the victory by arguing that the true majority requires more than 20 million votes, half of the eligible voters or close to 70 percent of votes cast. .
Sounds surreal? You may be right in a perfect world that democracy works perfectly but we don't.
Take the example of candlelit protestors vs. "Taegukgi units."
The candlelight started to condemn Park's governing idiosyncrasies that, among other things, dealt with presidential mandate like personal property. It was and still is the case of people power prevailing over the unworthy leader.
But it is now often portrayed as a liberal movement, in contrast to a growing turnout of people who wrap them with national flags and demand the Constitutional Court dismiss the Park case. They are led by renegade pro-Park lawmakers, belong to the older generations, draw in conservative support and gets bigger.
Throw in the do-or-die ideological confrontation that is finding its outlet in the Park case and it is likely that these conservatives may dismiss the progressive election winner unless he wins the true majority. Even if he wins the true majority, it is quite possible that the naysayers call him "not my president" or "half president."
Then, spoiling the DPK's chance of shoo-in president is that any conservative standard bearer turns into a lightning rod and tighten the election. Optimists point out that there is less than three months left before the election, considering that it should be held within two months after Park is disqualified as president. The ruling is expected around the second week of March so the election should be held in May. (The Constitutional Court is widely expected to back the impeachment against Park. Even if it doesn't, it is widely believed that Park couldn't come back to office.) Prime Minister Hwang came in second with 16.9 percent against Moon's 45.8 percent in a simulated duel, according to the recent survey by Hankook Ilbo, the sister paper of The Korea Times. Hwang has not even declared his candidacy.
The real challenge for the nation may come after the election.
The illiberals of Korean variety would get organized and try to throw the wrench in every governing action by the liberal president.
Perhaps, they may feel revanchist, doing what was done against Park on him.
In that sense, the Park case is worth a second look.
True, she has been a terrible president for her imperial modus operandi. But just imagine what if Choi's tablet PC containing evidence of illegal power sharing was not found? The nation could have been under Park's rule, complaining about her tactless governance.
There was another case of candlelit protests that almost toppled the government of Lee Myung-bak, Park's predecessor. Then, for months, the protesters occupied Gwangwhamun Boulevard to demand the resumption of U.S. beef imports halted amid mad cow fears. It turned out to be a case of much ado about nothing : a misguided report that triggered a nationwide civil disobedience movement.
As shown in the latest candlelit protests and counter-protests, now the mass is more highly mobilized thanks to the ever-present SNS. But what boils the pot is the zeitgeist of the post-truth era that we are living in where the borderline between truth and falsity gets blurred and the borderline itself shifts as well and where we want to believe what we want to believe and it magically turns into truth.
In other words, the next president should be made aware that even before election he is running the risk of being impeached, considering he takes office at a time when the nation is highly divided and ideological conflict of the proportion of candlelit protests can be the striking of a match away, so to speak. Some now say that the biggest achievement for the next president would be complete his term, pointing out that through Park's impeachment, the people has tasted the most addictive aphrodisiac, named power, and may want to have it again and again.
Then, how would he avoid the repeat of Park's fate?
The answer is as simple as politics involving impeachment is complicated.
He can survive by giving half of his power to the other side: appointing a prime minister with conservative credentials and giving him a big power to him. It is easier said than done. Power is like a question that is in search for answer he who has it wants to have it all to himself.
Oh Young-jin is The Korea Times' chief editorial writer. Contact foolsdie5@ktimes.com and foolsdie@gmail.com.
By Yoon Sung-won
Samsung has stopped all group-wide internal communication channels following the disbandment of the conglomerate's strategy-setting control tower, group officials said Friday.
The nation's largest conglomerate dissolved its 28-year-old in-house broadcaster Samsung Broadcasting Center (SBC) as of Thursday.
"Now that the Corporate Strategy Office is gone, we are closing in-house broadcasting," a Samsung official said. "Affiliates will continue their own respective in-house broadcasts."
The group introduced the SBC in 1989. Broadcasts were aired twice a week in the morning for 10 to 15 minutes. They mainly introduced affiliates, their diverse departments and occupational groups.
"The broadcast facilitated communication among affiliates and employees," said an office worker at a Samsung Group affiliate, Friday. "Most employees stay in an office to work, and so it was good to know what other workers at group affiliates did."
The in-house broadcasting has also been used as a channel for whistle-blowing. In 1993, the SBC reporting team filmed a video of Samsung Electronics' washing machine manufacturing plant workers fabricating defective products as ones with fair quality. In the video, the workers tried to shape a defective lid of a washing machine with a knife.
Responding to the whistle-blowing broadcast, Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hee summoned about 200 executives to Frankfurt, Germany, on June 7 in 2013 to deliver what the conglomerate called its New Management Initiative.
"We won't survive without painful changes," Lee said in a speech, which was also called the Frankfurt Declaration. "Advanced countries, companies will dominate the market in the coming four to five years." At that time, Lee also famously said, "Change everything except for your wife and children."
Later in June and July last year, the SBC released a White Paper on Samsung's software competitiveness and argued that the Korean conglomerate lagged far behind global giants such as Google in terms of software development capability.
The group's other communication channels face the same fate as the SBC. The group's new letter service was stopped as of Thursday. Its website and official blog are scheduled to close April 3.
Samsung Group said it will no longer provide the Samsung Campus Talk, a career counseling program for collegians. The group will also discontinue overseas study programs or transfers of managers to other affiliates.
The Samsung affiliate source said many working-level employees will miss the in-house broadcast.
"Besides introducing the work of other affiliates, the broadcast offered other useful and interesting information such as tips for simple exercises that we could do while working," he said. "It also helped us learn about the company that we work at, which I believe was good."
Another employee at Samsung Electronics said, "I understand that such decisions have been made for a good purpose. The changes may not have a significant influence on our daily work, but the overseas training opportunities and recreational events will be missed by many employees."
By Lee Hyo-sik
Korean Air has been grappling with a series of maintenance lapses in recent weeks, which have forced some of its planes to return to airports after takeoff.
These incidents have greatly inconvenienced passengers and raised public concern over the carrier's operational safety, dealing a blow to company President Walter Cho who took control of Korea's largest carrier Jan. 11.
Industry analysts say a wide range of problems could occur during flights as planes are composed of hundreds of thousands of electronic and mechanical parts.
Korean Air's aging fleet has become more prone to various safety-related malfunctions, according to the analysts, who said poor maintenance makes things go from bad to worse.
On Feb. 28, a Korean Air flight bound for Fiji was forced to return to Incheon International Airport about six hours after takeoff, inconveniencing 115 passengers.
The pilots of the Airbus 330-200 decided to return to Incheon after a warning alert about the plane's hydraulic system. Upon arrival, passengers had to board another airplane and arrived in Fiji, 10 hours and 30 minutes later than initially scheduled.
On the same day, a Korean Air Boeing 777-300 aircraft bound for Singapore had to return to Manila International Airport, nearly three hours after takeoff, because some passengers complained about the smell of something burning. It was later found that the smell was caused by excessive heat in the internal heating system.
On Feb. 20, a Korean Air Boeing 747-400 bound for Bangkok was forced to abort takeoff at Incheon airport after detecting a problem with the landing gear.
The carrier's low-cost unit, Jin Air, has been no exception to maintenance lapses in recent months.
For instance, Jin Air ordered a Boeing 777-200 plane bound for the Philippines to return to Incheon Feb. 8 after a fire alarm sensor malfunctioned. The aircraft was manufactured in May 2005.
"It is not unusual for planes to abort flights for various mechanical problems because some parts among the hundreds of thousands of the plane may not function properly," said an airline industry official, who declined to be named. "The carriers these days are beginning to deal with a growing number of maintenance-related problems in line with the aging of their airplanes."
The analyst also said Korean Air and other airlines have become more sensitive toward safety-related issues. "In the past, minor troubles could have been ignored if they posed no flight risks. But these days, pilots act more cautiously and prefer to ground planes whenever something goes wrong, regardless of the extent of the severity."
A Korean Air official said that "Among hundreds of thousands of parts making up an airplane, some may not work properly at times."
"Nonetheless, we are doing everything we can to ensure the safety of every single flight and provide on-time, pleasant flight services to our customers. We will continue to remain vigilant," he said.
This is the fourth in a series highlighting operations of foreign luxury brands in Korea. ED.
By Park Jae-hyuk
Chanel Chairman Alain Wertheimer
Chanel has enjoyed long-lasting popularity among Korean consumers as one of the top three luxury brands, along with Hermes and Louis Vuitton. The fate of its employees in Korea, however, may not be luxurious at all.
According to Chanel Korea, Friday, the company carried out large-scale restructuring last year, which appears to have caused a mass resignation of employees who were working for its marketing and sales departments.
Back then, the Korean branch of the French fashion house said it integrated the department store and duty free divisions into a single unit, which it says was designed to keep up with the rapidly evolving business environment.
"This integration impacted very few positions," a Chanel Korea spokesman said. "As a responsible employer, we supported the people with the highest standards following our usual social policy."
The spokesman denied the possibility of additional restructuring, but industry sources expect that another large-scale shuffle will take place this year. The sources said that employees in finance and personnel divisions are highly likely to be the next targets.
To the chagrin of Chanel Korea employees, the massive payroll cut was not because the Seoul affiliate yielded poor results. Over the past few years, the firm has enjoyed increases in sales at major department stores here and last year it chalked up a double-digit growth.
China plans to bolster its defences in cyberspace while keeping a close eye on the US government's review of its own strengths.
Policy document also pledges to prevent an arms race in the cyber realm amid US claims that Chinese hackers have attacked American government targets
By Catherine Wong
China plans to bolster its defences in cyberspace while keeping a close eye on the US government's review of its own strengths, a senior foreign ministry official said on Thursday.
Cybersecurity has been a flashpoint for Sino-US ties, with the US accusing the Chinese government and military of cyberattacks against US targets. Beijing denies the claims and says it is a victim of hacking.
Since taking office, US President Donald Trump has not commented on the cybersecurity feud with China, but last month he scrapped plans to sign an executive order for a US cybersecurity overhaul.
China, meanwhile, released a blueprint on Wednesday to increase international cooperation in cyberspace and to strengthen its own cybersecurity systems. "Enhanced defence capability in cyberspace is an important part of China's endeavour to modernise its national defences and armed forces," the document said.
China would also "prevent cyberspace from becoming a new battlefield" and "prevent an arms race in cyberspace", according to the blueprint released by the foreign ministry and the national internet regulator.
Beijing would "expedite the development of a cyber force" and take preventive diplomatic measures by stepping up dialogue with other countries to study new threats that affected international peace and security.
Long Zhou, the foreign ministry's coordinator for cyber affairs, said China was paying close attention to the US review of its cybersecurity defences. Beijing also hoped to resume dialogue with the US in the area.
"The US policy on cybersecurity is still unclear. So we will wait to find out [if the dialogue will resume]," Long said.
When asked about long-standing US accusations of attacks by Chinese hackers, he underscored Beijing's position that it was the "major victim" of hacking.
"[China is] unlike other people who always portray themselves as the victim and point the finger at other countries," he said.
Long also warned against the risks of an arms race in cyberspace.
"We are concerned about the emerging trend of enhanced deterrence [among other countries]. This is not conducive to international security and mutual trust," he said.
Beijing suspended a cybersecurity working group with the US three years ago after Washington accused five Chinese military officers of stealing trade secrets. The talks resumed a year later.
State Councillor Yang Jiechi and Public Security Minister Guo Shengkun met US officials in Washington in December and discussed tackling cybercrime.
China, home to the world's biggest number of internet users, routinely censors online content, including blocking international social networking sites such as Facebook.
Long said China advocated freedom of speech for its citizens, but stressed the need for regulation in cyberspace.
Qin An, director of the China Institute of Cyberspace Strategy, said Trump's America-first agenda and his plans to pull Washington back from its role as the "world's policeman" could mean the US was unlikely to lecture China on its domestic regulation of the internet.
But cybersecurity could still be a source of tension between the two countries under the Trump administration, Qin said.
He also said the growing importance of cybersecurity to national sovereignty meant there was a need to institutionalise defences against cyber attack.
"China and the US should formally establish a cyber force as part of the military, but it should not lead to an arm race," Qin said.
'Descendants of the Sun' actor Song Joong-ki will be returning in a new drama! Instead of being a leading role, he is lending his acting skills for another cameo. Recently, he made a cameo appearance in the Netflix original 'The Sound Of Your Heart' playing a famous webtoon creator. This time, he will be making a cameo in the Park Hae-jin drama, 'Man to Man'.
Joong-ki was photographed on set by local reporters, looking dapper in a business suit. Leading actor Hae-jin was also seen on set as well. The plot of 'Man to Man' is about a mysterious man who get swept up in a whirlwind of events after he becomes the bodyguard to a top star.
Expect to see beautiful production on this drama, for it have been reviled that some scenes were filmed in Budapest! The drama is set to premier on April 21st on JTBC!
Are you excited to see Song Joong-ki back on the small screen? Let us know in the comments below!
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Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha, Sri Lanka's Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva delivered the Statement on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka as the country concerned during the Clustered Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, Dr. Nils Melzer, at the 34th Session of the Human Rights Council today (02 March 2017). The statement followed the presentation of the Report (A/HRC/34/54/Add.2) on the visit of previous Special Rapporteur on Torture, Mr. Juan E. Mendez to Sri Lanka from 29 April to 7 May 2016.
Full Statement
Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka
Geneva
02 March 2017
These transcripts appear in the March 3, 2017 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.
On Composing a New Future
[Print version of these transcripts]
The following are edited transcripts from two sources. The first part is from a discussion which Lyndon LaRouche conducted with members of the LaRouche PAC Science Team on Feb. 23, 2017, and the second part consists of edited remarks from the Feb. 23 LaRouche PAC National Activist Call, delivered by John Sigerson, member of the Board of Directors of Schiller Institute, Inc., and National Music Director of Schiller Institute.
Jason Ross: What is it to be productive? People are so divorced from an idea of productivity, young people have no idea what productivity means. . . . The general theme has got to be, how do we increase productivity, what is productivity, what are the ways that that gets fostered both through Glass Steagall and National Banking, to make it possible for manufacturing to returnincluding the public works aspect of iton the science front, the fusion front, and on the infrastructure platform front. The potential productivity of the whole nation takes a tremendous leap with a high speed rail network, the maglev rail network, and there is this problem that people have in thinking about this when they are looking at it piece by piece rather than the platform that is generated as the whole. So those are some of the things I want to change.
Lyndon LaRouche: Well, some of these things you might not want to changeif you think carefully, because these issues dont come in numbers. They arent simple quantities. What they do is they represent an action of the mind of people and it is the action of the mind of people that determines what action is in reality. So, therefore, you dont go to a quantity directly. You have an effect, which looks like something otherwise. But what you have to do is, you have to get to the gut of the issue itself. Hmm? You cant, in other words, make different kinds of combinations or work them out. That doesnt work. If its serious, you have to discover what the meaning of what you just saw, was. In other words, you cannot go by deduction, simple deduction. You have to actually develop a conception of how the whole system might work, and then work down to discover what that system means.
Its the creation of the creation of an idea, which apparently came from nowhere, but was just suddenly there. Then you have to find out what that meant. You have to investigate what was the way in which this thing happened. You cant do it by anatomic dissection. Some will do that dissection, but. . . . I dont think we want to do that in the public streets.
Ben Deniston: Can you say more about what you mean when you say discover how the system works as a whole?
LaRouche: Yes, the idea is, you cannot make a deductive approach to accomplish any system. It has to be something which evolves with the independent character, distinct from other characters which have been experienced otherwise. Therefore, it has to be a justification for this characterization.
Real discoveryall real discoveryis not pragmatic. Its always creative. You create something, in action, which would not have happened otherwise. In other words, everything that fits in, that comes in by definition itself, and it does not come because its a combination of thingsit becomes a servant of an idea. But the servant of the idea is not something which was composed in a formal way. Thats why the so-called practical approaches to scientific work become a disaster. Because you have to deal with something which you can make this somethingyou can change it without changing the character of the thing.
So you get something which is independent of the particular thing, because the particular thing is not the solution. But youve got to find something that is so important to what you are trying to do, that youll stick to that and not drift off into another direction. And that characteristic, these same kinds of discoveries, are not discoveries which can be quantified. They can appear to be quantified, but theyre not of that character. Its like creating a solar system, or a stellar system. It is not something you make by composing it, as such. Its something that you have to call upon in order to create, to stimulate the creation of an idea which otherwise would not exist.
Ross: Composition without components.
LaRouche: Thats right! But composition with composition. So there has to be a relationship between the composition and what could have been otherwise the component. It is like making babies! You can sit it there in the crib all the way through life. But this crib does not define the baby! I hope it does not. What you are looking for is something, an idea which is necessary for a purpose, that is not something you simply deduce. Deduction process is not the means of dealing with that.
Megan Beets: Rather than making babies, I was going to say it is like making music, because the notes are necessitated by the idea.
LaRouche: Would we hope thats the way it is going to work out. Like our friend we discussed a time ago . . . the composer you liked in the particular way, we discussed it. Kepler. Because its a completely different composition. It does not have compositions as such. It has something which has a higher order of composition as such. And thats how all good things generally come about. Furtwangler was the man who made a very important turn in the understanding of composition, musical composition. Thats an example of what we mean in creativity. Its not something you can add in numerically or any other way like that. It is something that you have to feel and create. And nothing else will do. And Furtwanglers case is typical of thatin the latter years of his life when he came to the greatest degree of development of his powers.
Thats the difference between what you can makeby making some kind of dough or somethingand creating a new idea which had no anticipation as such. Somebody did, somebody saw the idea, but they didnt make the idea. They adapted themselves to the idea, because it is something they understood, something they had understood, only lately. Thats how great ideas come about. Like Furtwangler. Furtwangler was a very important figure in my life time.
Societe Wilhelm Furtwangler/furtwangler.net
Everything that is really good is of that same nature, is composed not by putting parts together. . . The important thing is what is necessary to create a new reality in the world, as Furtwangler did. Just take the closing end of Furtwanglers famous composition. Thats what makes the music. Not the parts. So thats what I think our problem is, is to get a conception which is inherently intrinsic, and when the composer or the person who is functioning as if he were a composer, and effectively so, that you get a special kind of reaction in the composition as such. And thats what I think is in real scientific workthe location of the scientific principle, just like a musical principle, like Furtwangler, and put that together. Now you have something which comes alive; alive in its own way, its own characteristics. Anybody can make a poem but very few people are competent to develop compositions. So you want to have compositionsan inherently, intrinsic characteristic of something which is composed. And the ability that this thing represents for a productive achievementthat is what the point is you have to shoot for.
That is what Krafft Ehricke did. If you look at what Krafft Ehricke did in the United States, for example, it was unique. The way he died reminded us, those of us who knew himrealized that this was a composition made by a human being, Krafft Ehricke. And the whole thing was something unique, and you would turn around and say, well, Krafft EhrickeWhat does Krafft Ehricke mean? Krafft Ehricke means the creative powers of a person, a highly developed person, who elevated mankind to a higher level of development.
So the fact that this idea of composition was situated in those terms is exactly what you have to do if you want to do what we are doing here. You cant synthesize something. You have to actually create it. And the creation is based on something which is inside what you are doing, but you could never interpret it. It could interpret you, but you cannot interpret it. This is the best way to get something worthwhile. Concentrate on that objective. If you want to cook something, always cook a composition. A composition is cooked, it is not made. . . I mean what are we doing here? We are taking a phenomenon, it is really strange, it is a phenomenon! Thats why it is thereits a phenomenon. It is not a factits a phenomenon, in the same way that Furtwangler set up his programs. So you want to create something that in and of itself has power, the power of creativity. And you will never get a simple answer. That would be wrong. If you did the right thing, then you would create something. But you wouldnt make it out of parts. Musical composition, the same thing. And its fun. Thats the other part. If its not fun, dont do it!
San Diego Air and Space Museum Archives
Deniston: One aspect of this is what you went after very early on, the whole information theory fraud. You have often said that was a major part of your economic work, the fallacy of information theory as a methodological approach to any kind of system, like an economy. It seems like it has also permeated science and fundamental physics, to a degree I didnt even realize. It seems like information theoryliterally breaking down the universe into a digitalized fundamental framework of yes/no informationappears to be actually a fundamental tenet of modern physics. It seems like thats another angle on the permeation of this completely fallacious methodological, epistemological view, not just in the economics as you cited then, but in science more generally.
LaRouche: It is not the action. It is the effect. And it is the effect you createits what makes the meaning of a text . . . what makes it work. It does not work by composition as such. It functions itself by being able to repeat or to develop something out of an idea, but an idea which is in itself creative. And thats the formulation which is crucial. And people fail because they try to make things up. Its when they realize that something has come over them, it has an intrinsic value. It has no literal composition; it just has itself and thats what makes history great.
Like Furtwangler. He had an innovation, a capacity for innovation in a certain part of his life and thats the way it worked. And if you listen to Furtwanglers performances in life, thats what you see, thats what you get. There is no piece. There is a composition, a composition in a very special meaningthat you have an idea and this idea which flows from you on the basis of your discovery, is something unique, and is precious to you, its precious to mankind. Thats like the Furtwangler composition, his. . . composition, in the leading edges of what he did.
But Furtwanglers practice, and what he said about things, and what he did in response to this idea, is clear. It can be accessed. So the idea that music, composition, that the same thing is applied to all kinds of important things which are composition. When something comes out of your mind and suddenly says something that mind has never spoken beforeand yet on a second thought, the person who is expressing that thing will respond to what he or she had intended. The meaning of that experience suddenly becomes somethinga force more powerful than any mere idea. And thats what mankind has to achieve, the necessity is to get mankind to grasp this idea. Where do great ideas come from, what are great ideas, what do they represent? And thats the secret of science.
The same thing is discovering what Krafft Ehricke did in his work. He created things, new things, entirely new things coherent with the coherent systematic quality. Out of this thing, a whole story begins to evolve as something which has never been seen before. The point is to get rid of the amateurs. The amateurs are no use to science. When all the stars you want to study represent mankind as a whole, thats what you have to do. The problem is that most of the great politicians have no intellect. They only have bad. But the Furtwangler case is really a very good example of what the issue is. It is the idea of how do you create something which is beautiful. What is beauty? There is no such thing as beauty in the simple sense. Its the effect. Beauty lies in the effect it represents. I think by now you probably see more clearly what my argument is. And for me thats the principle of composition. It has many aspects and expressions but they all have one quality.
The National Activist Call
John Sigerson: Hello everybody. I wanted to approach what were doing from a standpoint which I hope will make you happy. What were doing is not just protecting the presidency; were actually composing the presidencythats our job. When I say composing, I mean composing from the standpoint of, say, a poetic composition. Just today, Lyndon LaRouche was having a discussion with some of our people and he pointed out along these lines, and I quote, Anyone can make a poem, but very few people can make a real composition, that is, a composition that has an underlying idea, a principle behind it. And this began to strike me with the Trump Presidency the other day, when he gave his very combative press conference to the media, attacking the media, which Im sure you heard about, and probably listened to. At last Saturdays Manhattan Meeting, I pointed out something which struck me, which is the way he used the term the failing New York Times. And I sensed a note of poetry in what the President was doing there, because he said it a number of times, and it created a kind of breath of fresh air for me, and I think for everybody, because it broke a taboo, which is youre never supposed to say anything bad about the New York Times. It changed the whole attitude of the population, without people even knowing about it. Weve seen the results of that even in our organizing over the last week, and Im sure were going to hear reports about that.
There was another incident with the President that I wanted to point out, which is even more amazing, which was theyou may have heard about thisthe comments that Trump made in commemorating Black History Month. He was talking about Frederick Douglass, who of course was an incredible fighter in the 19th Century against slavery. President Trump said the following, Frederick Douglass is an example of someone who has done an amazing job and is getting recognized more and more, I notice.
The liberal media went absolutely wild over what Trump said. Why? You would say, well, why is that? Let me read you what the Washington Post said. The world may never know whether President Trump just got a little sloppy with his verb tenses on Wednesday morning, or simply had no idea that the famous black abolitionist Frederick Douglass was in fact dead. In other words, what they are quibbling over is the fact that he used the verb is rather than was.
This is exactly the kind of violation of rules which is the core of anything having to do with poetry. There is a book called the New York Times Manual of Style and there is also a similar book by Strunk and White called Elements of Style which may have been inflicted on many of you in your studies, which outline all the rules you are supposed to follow in order to communicate something, and all of these rules are, especially with commasyoure not supposed to use a comma except grammatically in order to throw off certain kinds of phrases. And youre not supposed to use is if youre talking about something in the pastand all of these kinds of crazy rules. Obviously, what President Trump was sayingand thats what his press spokesman said later onthat obviously Trump was thinking of Frederick Douglass legacy as being completely alive and growing, which I think is a wonderful idea. Whats the problem with that?
That brings me to this question of poetry, and I think that we all have to be thinking, as were doing all of the things that were doingwe have to be thinking that ultimately it is poetry, a certain kind of poetrypolemical poetrythat actually changes the entire paradigm of the population.
I just wanted to read something from Percy Shelley. Its his essay, A Defense of Poetry. If youve ever read this essay, its not that long but its incredibly packed, and you may have heard bits and pieces of it. I just wanted to read one passage here, where he says:
Painting by Alfred Clint
At such periodsand I would say such periods as the one that were living through right now[John Sigerson]there is an accumulation of the power of communicating and receiving intense and impassioned conceptions respecting man and nature. The persons in whom this power resides, may often, as far as regards many portions of their nature, have little apparent correspondence with that spirit of good of which they are the ministers, but even while they deny and abjure, they are yet compelled to serve, the power which is seated on the throne of their own soul. It is impossible to read the compositions of the most celebrated writers of the present day without being startled with the electric life which burns within their words
Okay. Let me read that according to the way that the New York Times Manual of Style would read it. [Reads it again as described.] I guess you can get the idea that also it is very important that things are presented in an emphatic way; and the key there of course is that I eliminated all the commas, which is exactly what is usually done nowadays. And that is what the liberals like. They dont like commas, at all.
What is this thing called poetry? I just want to read a little bit more from earlier on, where Shelley says something about what poetry is. He says:
Poetry, in a general sense, may be defined to be the expression of the imagination: and poetry is connate with the origin of man. Man is an instrument over which a series of external and internal impressions are driven, like the alternations of an ever-changing wind over an olian lyre, [thats a musical instrument], which move it by their motion to ever-changing melody. But there is a principle within the human being, and perhaps within all sentient beings, which acts otherwise than in the lyre, and produces not melody alone, but harmony, by an internal adjustment of the sounds or motions thus excited to the impressions which excite them. It is as if the lyre could accommodate its chords to the motions of that which strikes them, in a determined proportion of sound; even as the musician can accommodate his voice to the sound of the lyre. [And skipping a little bit, he talks about the childs delight in these things, and he says,] In relation to the objects which delight a child, these expressions are what poetry is to higher objects.
And indeed, what we are talking about is that higher object.
Over the recent period, weve been re-issuing a number of wonderful written pieces by Lyndon LaRouche, which if you have not worked on, you really should work through. I would just point out that there are a couple of pieces that are very, very critical, which you could listen to or study in order to get a sense of that. These are pieces which Ill probably be working on, giving a class series, as well. One of them is a piece by Mozart, which is called Ave Verum Corpus. Its a seemingly very simple piece. It means Hail True Body. Its a song to the Virgin Mary, but it has embedded in it this exact same principle that Im getting at here, and it also points to an incredible piece that was later written by Beethoven which is a string quartet, which is Opus 132, which has in it something that harkens back to Mozart, whom of course Beethoven revered. Its a holy song of thanks to the Godhead of one who has been cured, and that is also something very beautiful.
The other thing that I would like (again, just for time, we cant really work these things through here, but I will) is to work through something that has preoccupied me for many years, and ought to preoccupy everyone, which is the work of the great conductor Wilhelm Furtwangler, who was a German conductor and German music director; and who, if you want to understand what really is motivating Lyndon LaRoucheand I say is and will continue to motivate Lyndon LaRoucheyou must work through the effect that Furtwanglers work, and the pieces that he conducted had on LaRouche, as he was growing up. I will just point out that there was one point, in 1946, when Lyndon LaRouche was in India and he heard for the first time a recordingwhich I actually dug upits a 1938 recording by Furtwangler, doing a piece by Tchaikovsky, the Russian composer; and in a footnote, in another work which we will probably be publishing, called Mans Original Creations, which he wrote in 2005, that is, at the age of 83, he said:
As I have often, on occasion, referred to this experience, the first time I experienced Furtwanglers conducting was in 1946, in hearing a recording of his directing of a Tchaikovsky performance. It was like a Damascus Road experience, in which I recognized that the effect I experienced, of the transparency of the performance, lay in a gripping cross-voice movement throughout the performance, to the effect of the relentlessness of a compelling sense of a seamless intellectual development underlying the heard music which is heard not with the ear, but with the mind.
And it is precisely that musical sense which if we are able to get that across and communicate this in everything that we do, we will win. With that, I will hand it over to questions and answers.
In response to a question concerning the political organizing in New York City, John said the following:
Sigerson: OK. Well, A__, I just have to keep hammering away at this question of irony. This wonderful article that Lyn wrote called Mans Original Creations which we quoted before, talks about this thing, because thats the way to put it into words. Let me just read the paragraph that Lyn wrote:
As Schiller emphasizes, the man from the street should leave the theater as virtually a different person than had entered a few hours before. Irony! This effect is not, like the experience of some fundamentalist parsons rant, some maudlin sort of edifying moral effect upon the audience. It is the effect on the citizen of looking over the shoulder of a history different than that of his own experience of life in his own time and place. [Were talking about great drama, like Shakespeare now.] Irony! Why could they not see the rottenness of their culture? Could I do something about a tragic error in the culture of my own society today? What kind of a fool I would be, if I could not look at my own culture as I could now see so clearly the insanity of that other culture presented to me by that play? Irony! He is not such a fool that he would attempt to deduce a principle for his culture from the other culture on stage.
But then later on, a wonderful paragraph that I really love, Lyn says,
The orbit of the planets is not circular, but elliptical. Irony! Fermat demonstrated that the pathway of least action is not the shortest distance, but the pathway of the quickest time. Irony! Huyghens thought this pathway was defined by the cycloid; but Leibniz and Bernoulli demonstrated that it is the catenary-defined principle of the Leibniz calculus, the principle of universal least action. Irony!
And indeed, the more ironical juxtapositions that youre able to do, when youre even talking to people, it requires a little bit more concentration, a little bit more effort, but thats why I brought up this ironyearlier on hereabout this crazy thing with Frederick Douglass, because it points out the ironical juxtaposition of how crazy all the media are at this point, so that people can actually laugh at itas Trump was laughing at it.
The Activist Call concluded with these final comments:
Sigerson: I want to add one thing to what Dennis just said, on a political note, which is something that Lyndon LaRouche was very emphatic about earlier on, this week, which is Obama personally. Lyndon said very explicitly, We have to destroy Obama. That doesnt mean physically, but right now we have an opportunity to destroy his credibility, destroy everything that he represents. And Lyndon was very explicit on saying that we should focus also on the Tuesday kill sessions, that Obama was doing: He is a murderer. He continues to be a murderer, and everything that hes doing right now is pushing towards murder even of the sitting President of the United States. And I think that we should not be nice to Obama. We should really pile it on with this guy, because he should get everything that he deserves. He should be discredited and a good part of the population now may actually be able to take that Damascus Road. People who up to now have been sort of dumb supporters.
And I think some of these meetings, especially the one that P__ just mentioned, is a perfect example of that kind of thing. Theyre ripe for conversion, and almost like, I would say, deprogramming.
Otherwise, I just want to urge people not to ignore these incredible works that now were re-issuing in Executive Intelligence Review, on these incredibly, for some of you, possibly quite difficult to read, longer pieces by Lyndon. Because if you want sticking power, which is what this movement has had for now almost 50 years, if you want sticking power, youve got to learn to know Mr. LaRouche in the deepest way possible. Hes still around, hes 94 years old now, and you can still talk to him, but its these papers that really reveal as deeply as youre going to get, his soul. And really, avail yourself of this opportunity; Mr. LaRouche is one of the greatest thinkers of the past millennium and a lot of us, reading these papers, and re-reading these papers myself, have reinforced that idea. Its not an exaggeration: future generations will, I think, bear this out. Thank you.
This editorial appears in the March 3, 2017 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.
The Denial of Reality by Narcissistic Democrat s Take s O n Clinica l Dimensions
[Print version of this editorial]
Feb. 25The collective hysteria seizing the neoliberal, vulture globalist trans-Atlantic Establishmentin the face of far-reaching strategic changes manifest in the Trump Presidency and the New Silk Road dynamicrepresents a new kind of mass-psychological phenomenon. In a symbiotic conflation of group-think and group-narcissism, these advocates of the oh-so-democratic western community of values indulge in diatribes of the basest sort against those who think otherwise, so much so that it doesnt even occur to them that they are acting dictatorially.
The most dramatic example of this clinical loss of touch with reality is surely the pathological excitement with which every statement by President Trump is commented upon. A recent example is Trumps Feb. 24 speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference at National Harbor in Maryland. He pointed out the obvious, that the United States has spent six trillion dollars or more over the last fifteen years for wars in the Middle East and Libya, and the region is much the worse for it today. If the former presidents had instead gone to the beach during that time, we would all be much better off today, he said, and added that we could have rebuilt our country three times over with that money.
But the media found these views unworthy of comment, and instead hyperventilated over the fact that several of their number, who had previously distinguished themselves with particularly vicious reporting against Trump, were not invited to be part of the White House media pool. And where were these media and their co-thinker politicians, when the Bush and Obama governmentssupported by the same western community of valueswere bombing countries in the Middle East for years, and arming terrorist groups, actions which cost more than a million lives and brought unspeakable suffering to many millions of families, without which the refugee crisis would not have erupted as it has?
Did they simply oppose Trumps demand that Europe must spend more money for rearmamentbecause there is no threat, there is no Warsaw Pact any more, and Russia has no plans for conquest, neither of the Baltic states, or Poland, or anywhere else, while NATO and the European Union (EU) have expanded right up to Russias borders? No. These media are reacting no less hysterically with demands for the nuclear rearmament of Germany and the European Union. Does the EU Need the Bomb? wrote co-authors Peter Dausend and Michael Thumann of the oh-so-liberal Zeit recently; they thus betrayed where the real warmongers residenamely, in the editorial offices of their newspaper.
The neoliberal, neoconservative Establishment just cant manage to analyze the failure of its paradigm and correct it accordingly.
Sabotaging the Silk Road
Another example of the absurdity of this behavior is the most recent EU action against the Chinese-financed stretch of high-speed rail between Belgrade and Budapest. This 350 kilometer rail segment, first proposed by President Xi Jinping in 2013, will reduce travel time between the two capitals from 8 to 3 hours and will obviously be very beneficial for the countries concerned, Serbia and Hungary, as well as for the entire Balkan region. But the EU has now launched an investigation into whether the project will pay for itself (!) and whether it conforms to EU guidelines. Yet Serbia is not even a member of the EU!
The people of the Balkan states are painfully aware that the EU has not built a single one of the transport corridors originally decided upon at the conference of EU Transport Ministers in 1994 in Crete, but which then fell victim to the austerity policy of the EU Commission and the European Central Bank. So no one should be surprised that the Central and Eastern European countries, and the Balkan countries, see their future in the expansion of the New Silk Road, Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, which opens to them the prospect of participating in the most dynamic and most gigantic infrastructure projects the world has ever seen. Instead of responding positively to Chinas many offers of cooperation and seizing the enormous economic opportunities which lie in the win-win cooperation of all of Eurasia, the neoliberal EU bureaucracy is attempting, from a position of weakness, to exert a control which it has long since lost, as the desolate situation of the EU shows.
Chinas Global Times wrote this about the EU action on Feb. 23: The EU is experiencing a tough time and may seek to assert its authority by ramping up inspections and reviews, but the EU may have hit a dead end. It is unknown whose interest the EUs investigation represents. Nevertheless, it added, China will try to persuade the EU of the advantages of cooperation.
Less dim-witted is PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the worlds second largest accounting firm, which is based in London and operates in 152 countries, with 756 subsidiaries and 223,000 employees. It published a comprehensive overview under its rubric, PwC B&R Watch, under the headline: China and Belt & Road Infrastructure: 2016 Review and Outlook (February 2017), in which, with the aid of many maps and illustrations, it demonstrates the enormous potential of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative. The Initiative already involves three continents and 66 countries, and stretches from Lithuania to Indonesia, it notes; all have profited from explosive growth, which is bringing enormous benefits in transportation, energy production, communications, health care, and many other areas.
The EUs strange attitude has long since become a subject of discussion in Asia. The S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore raised the question almost a year ago as to whether the EU had already missed the train of the New Silk Road. The European media have focused exclusively on Chinese takeovers, it noted, while entirely neglecting to explain the enormous potential that cooperation with China would bring to all sides. As a result, Europes citizens are extremely poorly informed.
Evil Humor
Even though the famous annual carnival program in Mainz is not as important as one or another of its proponents might think, this years version lends itself well to demonstrating the evil character of the group narcissism of the Establishment, which was at least selectively gathered in the audience. Several of the skits, such as those of Hans-Peter Betz and Lars Reichow, for example, had nothing to do with humor, being simply poisonous insults of the lowest level against Trump, to whichjudging from the camera workthe audience responded with approval.
These skits not only betrayed bad taste, but reflect a hostility that shows how fragile the political situation is, and how flimsy the facade of the western community of values has become. Behind this facade we find that same claim to being the sole legitimate authoritya link to the unipolar world orderthat meant there were no demonstrations against the wars based on lies in the Middle East. It is for precisely this reason that the neoliberal neocons are whining for the nice Obama. And it is less likely that Trump would have a problem finding Germany on the mapas one of the so-called comics claimedthan that they themselves would have trouble locating Yemen.
The world will continue to change dramatically over the next months, just as we have seen it do over the last year. If we are lucky, it will turn out the way it did the last time a system came to an end: There will be many about-faces and some people will keep on being blockheads. The difference is that this time, a large majority of countries is ready to set up an entirely new kind of cooperation among nation-states. The nations of Europe have the choice of either cooperating for a common destiny for the future of mankind, or soon be among the also-rans.
PRESS RELEASE
Syrian Army Liberates Palmyra for the Second Time
Mar. 2, 2017 (EIRNS)After a blitz offensive with Russian air support yesterday, that brought troops to the heights overlooking the city and to the southwestern edge of the city itself, units of the Syrian Arab Army entered Palmyra today, liberating it for the second time after ISIS had captured it in December of 2016. Al Masdar News, citing military sources, reported early this morning that indications were that ISIS had largely withdrawn from the city overnight, but that Syrian troops had refrained from entering the city itself, because of the fear that ISIS insurgents had scattered booby traps and mines across it. According to a report in TASS, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu informed President Vladimir Putin that the Syrian army had completed the operation to seize Palmyra. Al Masdar subsequently published video showing columns of Syrian troops and armored vehicles entering the city. Syrian combat engineers, trained by the same Russian sappers who cleared eastern Aleppo city after it was liberated, are now sweeping Palmyra for bombs left behind by ISIS.
The Syrian army General Command affirmed, in a statement reported by SANA, the importance of the liberation of Palmyra in conjunction with army victories in eastern Aleppo province. This achievement, the General Command said, confirms that the Syrian Arab Army, in collaboration with friends, is the only active force to fight terrorism and eradicate it, adding that the restoration of Tadmur (Palmyra) forms a basis to expand the military operations against ISIS on many axes and to tighten the grip around the terrorists and break off their supply routes. The Syrian army, the statement concluded,
PRESS RELEASE
Vietnam To Join Chinas One Belt, One Road Project
March 2, 2017 (EIRNS)In an exclusive interview with the state-owned Chinese news agency Xinhua, Do Tien Sam, editor-in-chief of the China Research Journal published by the Institute for Chinese Studies in the Vietnam Academy of Social Science, made clear that Vietnam, one of the 57 founding member-nations of the AIIB, will be joining Chinas "One Belt, One Road" (OBOR) initiative.
"In the joint communiques between two parties chiefs during their respective visits to each country, Vietnam and China have determined that strategic connectivity between Chinas Belt and Road and Vietnams Two Corridors and One Economic Circle should be boosted,"
Do Tien Sam said in the interview. He also said that Vietnam will be attending the May "Belt and Road" Summit in Beijing. In addition to attending the summit, Do Tien Sam added that "Vietnam will contribute its ideas towards the success of the meeting."
Another Vietnamese official, Tran Viet Thai, deputy director of the Institute for Foreign Policy and Strategic Studies under Vietnams Ministry of Foreign Affairs Diplomatic Academy, endorsed Do Tien Sams statement, saying Vietnam will join the summit "even at a high level" as "the country has always said it is interested in the initiative," Xinhua reported today.
During his interview, Do Tien Sam said,
"Despite being a developing country, China has rapidly advanced more than other countries. China should share its development opportunities and accomplishments with other countries. "Following Chinas terms of connectivity in five areas, namely, connectivity of policy, transportation, trade, currency and the heart of the peoples, the summit should stress the importance of economic sharing, which is also in line with Chinas neighborly diplomacy that brings favorable opportunities and results to neighboring countries,"
Do Tien Sam said.
When news surfaced a few weeks ago that Carolyn Bryant, the white woman responsible for the 1955 murder of Emmett Till, had confessed to having made up the most glaring part of her testimony, it felt almost like the whole thing had been orchestrated if not to play into a grieving, post-Ferguson climate in which we now have a new president boasting a white supremacist agenda, then into my own life and work. Last fall, as part of a larger piece of commentary on black life in America, I spoke at length with Samaria Rice. She is, as most people know, the mother of 12-year-old Tamir, who was fatally shot by police in 2014. Tamir was only 12 years old, she told me. America robbed me of my sons life. It was impossible then, as now, to not be reminded of Emmett Till, who was 14 when he was thrown into Mississippis Tallahatchie River with an iron fan fastened to his neck with barbed wire, and America robbed Mamie Till of her sons life.
The platform for Bryants confession is The Blood of Emmett Till, a new book by Duke professor Timothy B. Tyson about the Till lynching and, among other things, how it set the modern civil rights movement into motion. As first reported by Vanity Fair, Bryant broke her decades-long silence to tell Tyson that although she had previously stated in her original testimony (under oath) that Till physically and verbally assaulted her on that wretched day in August over half a century ago, as it turns out, That parts not true. Her admittance would be shocking if not for its precise and poignant illustration of what Samaria Rice meant when she said mere months ago that America robbed me of my sons life, and what Mamie Till sought to expose over 50 years ago when she insisted on an open-casket funeral for her slain and mutilated son.
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In painstaking, often difficult to read detail, Tyson reaches into the chest cavity of America and pulls out its bloody heart with this acute retelling of Tills barbaric murder. Even if his own Southern white do-gooder bias occasionally peeks out from behind the otherwise elegant and sophisticated prose, Tyson effectively recasts the killing of an innocent black boy, re-investigates the subsequent trial that took place during the heat of a Mississippi summer when each day the county sheriff would greet the black press on his way into court with a cheerful good morning and a racial epithet. Tyson outlines the inevitable acquittal of the two white men charged with the murder, who would later confess to the crime and brag about it as a badge of honor.
Emmett Louis Till was born near Chicago on July 25, 1941 to Mamie, nearly a child herself at 18. Mamie split from Emmetts abusive father after a brief and tumultuous marriage, and moved in with her mother, where the three generations created a close and loving bond. Like many Southern black Americans, Mamie and her family had fled Mississippi for Illinois on the chicken bone express during the Great Migration. There was of course segregation, racist violence and bigotry in Chicago too, but it paled in comparison to Mississippi, which outstripped the nation in virtually every measure of lynching: the greatest number of lynchings, the most lynchings per capita, the most lynchings without an arrest or conviction, the most female victims, the most multiple lynchings, and on and on. Mamie grew up just outside of Chicago in Argo, Ill., where she recalls fond memories of a tight-knit extended family, and a childhood where it really seemed like almost everybody from Mississippi was coming through our house the Ellis Island of Chicago.
That is the environment into which Emmett was born and also, where he flourished. Despite a monthlong bout with polio at the age of 6 that resulted in a lingering stutter, Emmett was a bright, resilient and playful boy who grew into a well-mannered and curious young man. By 14, Emmett had assumed household duties and responsibilities, loved to laugh and joke, and was known for wearing a straw hat and tie to church, which he scarcely missed. He also had a crew of cousin-friends who went to the beach on hot days, sang doo-wop on warm nights, and loved to be outside in the world. Mamies uncle, a preacher named Moses Wright who still lived in Mississippi, suggested the boys come back down South with him after a visit in Chicago.
From here, most people know some variation of what happened next: An overconfident black boy from the urban North walks into a grocery store in the rural South one afternoon, doesnt know his place, shoots off at the mouth, smiles or whistles at a white woman, and that night the white womans husband along with two other men abduct the boy, torture and kill him. Perhaps more important than the details of the actual incident is the culture in which it occurred, and which has not just survived but thrived a quintessentially American backdrop that allows white men to kill a black boy with impunity in, as Tyson writes, an atmosphere created by the Citizens Councils, the Ku Klux Klan, and the mass of white public opinion, all of which demanded that African Americans remain the subservient mudsill of Mississippi or die.
The reality, though, was not just about black people remaining subservient, but also embodying and actively playing out the assigned stereotype, specifically black boys and men, whether true or not. After the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling in Brown v. Board of Education in 1954, Mississippi Circuit Court judge Thomas Brady gave a speech called Black Monday that foretold the circumstances of the vicious intent of Tills murder: the supercilious, glib young negro, who sojourned in Chicago or New York, and who considers the counsel of his elders archaic. Said boy will say the wrong thing to a white woman, the flowers of our universe and then, Brady cautioned, its over violence, mayhem and murder. And it was always and ever about protecting white women.
Bradys manifesto, which he later expanded on and published as a book, lays this premise out clearly: The loveliest and purest of Gods creatures, the nearest thing to an angelic being that threads this celestial ball is a well-bred, cultured Southern white woman. The maintenance of peaceful and harmonious relationships, which have been conducive to the well-being of both the White and Negro races of the South, has been possible because of the inviolability of Southern womanhood. At all costs, white women were to be protected specifically against the ramped-up sexualized threat of black men.
When you combine this fear of black men with what Tyson writes as the Souths disquieting sense that it no longer possessed the political high ground, it makes for a toxic, fear-mongering social system that breeds and condones white terrorism. Sound familiar? Tyson successfully connects the dots, and without actually saying so (he worked on the book for years prior to Nov. 8, 2016), draws a resolute if symbolic line between Emmett Till and Tamir Rice, and the white supremacist foreground of this country.
Carroll is editor of special projects at WNYC radio in New York and the author of several books of narrative nonfiction about race in the United States. She is one of The Times critics at large.
The Blood of Emmett Till
By Timothy B. Tyson
Simon & Schuster: 304 pp., $27
I have been waiting all my life for what 2014 has brought, Rebecca Solnit writes in The Mother of All Questions, a new collection of feminist essays that follows her 2014 hit Men Explain Things to Me. That year, she celebrated a thunderous wave of womens empowerment, an enormous change in the collective consciousness, which played out in, for example, the outpouring of stories from survivors of harassment and sexual violence under the hashtag #yesallwomen after the Isla Vista killings, the arrest of Jian Ghomeshi and public conversations about Dylan Farrow, Ray Rice and kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls. It was a watershed year for women, and for feminism, she writes, as we refused to accept the pandemic of violence against women the rape, the murder, the beatings, the harassment on the streets and the threats online.
In 2017, as we contend with a president elected by 52% of white female voters, even after a recording of him boasting about groping women surfaced during the campaign, this sticks in the throat somewhat. Yet Solnits own work provides a remedy to the sometimes jarring experience of reading, in 2017, these essays from the last few tumultuous years in the womens movement. Her vision of progress holds that history is neither linear nor predictable; that trying matters and often yields results, even if theyre not exactly the ones you wanted or expected; and, crucially, that as progressives face such uncertainty, they must celebrate their victories. This is an invaluable vision for activists wishing to avoid burnout in the current climate, and many have flocked to it: Solnits manifesto Hope in the Dark sold out after the election. In its content, The Mother of All Questions reinforces Solnits gift of hope; in the circumstances of its publication in this bleak year, it obliges readers to put it to use.
Solnit is the author of 17 books, and in the variety of their topics you see the connective nature of her imagination: They focus on landscape, politics, empathy, hope, art and feminism, among other subjects. Shes often described as a writer, historian and activist, but you could equally think of her as a poet of the ineffable. In her best moments, she takes readers to dark, unmapped places, where she doesnt turn on the light so much as rejoice in the darkness, the potential of the as-yet unknown.
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For instance: The Mother of All Questions begins with a long meditation on silence. Who has been unheard? Solnit asks. The sea of the unheard, she answers, is vast, and the surface of the ocean unmappable. The drops in this sea of silence are overwhelmingly womens stories, though there are men in there too, because under patriarchy, everybody loses somehow. Many of those silenced narratives are now lost to history, but Solnit wades into the waters to celebrate the stories that are beginning to emerge; Bill Cosby recurs, as does the #yesallwomen phenomenon.
In the second half of the collection, Solnit turns her attention from the sea of silence to some of the narratives that have successfully emerged from it: Theres the man the hunter myth, which falsely holds that the role of woman-as-homemaker is hardwired into humanity; theres 80 Books No Woman Should Read, which riffs on an odious Esquire article to prod at the misogyny of Ernest Hemingway, Norman Mailer, William S. Burroughs and others; theres the story with no protagonist: the way in which society pins rape on women, rather than rapists.
Solnits connective imagination often functions by boiling things down to essences, and in The Mother of All Questions, the key essence is silence, the universal condition of oppression. There are the silences that spring readily to mind those imposed by social norms and by law but in Solnits reckoning, shame, humiliation, politeness, trauma and discrediting, as well as violence, rape, and the threat of them, work by the same mechanism. Solnit brings everyday aggressions into new focus, and outlines a cohesive phenomenon where we might have seen a series of isolated events.
Notably absent, however, are the silences perpetrated by women against other women: the ways in which privileged women often straight, white and cisgender (identifying with the sex they were born with) silence gay, bisexual and trans women and women of color, even and sometimes especially within the feminist movement. In 2014, while Solnit celebrated that enormous change in the collective consciousness, women of color repeatedly pointed out that mainstream feminism often failed to recognize their experiences. In August 2013, writer Mikki Kendall launched the hashtag #solidarityisforwhitewomen, partly out of frustration with some of the feminists Solnit had championed. It trended worldwide.
This kind of privileged feminism is sometimes at play in The Mother of All Questions. For instance, Solnit writes: Women who are assaulted by celebrities matter. So do the Native women in the United States and Canada who face exceptionally high rates of sexual assault, rape, and murder. In a book that focuses heavily on sexual violence, this is the only reference to the disproportionate dangers faced by Native women.
Celebrating victories is important, but it must be balanced by a strong sense of all that remains to be done, and all those who have yet to benefit. Solnit often notes the importance of an intersectional view, yet she rarely centers the experiences of women dealing with multiple forms of oppression. This is important: If you happen to be privileged, the fear and hatred others face sit in your blind spot, which can cause celebrating victories to stall into the sort of liberal complacency that made Nov. 8 a terrible shock to so many.
As described in Men Explain Things to Me, Solnit subscribes to a Pandoras box vision of progress, in which an idea, once released, can never be put back in its box. She works to bear witness to what comes out of the box, naming ideas and linking events into stories of progress. The project champions narrative, and the narrative she claims in The Mother of All Questions is one of some progress amid limitations and setbacks. It would benefit from a more vivid sense of those who will be most gravely affected by those limitations and setbacks namely immigrant women, women of color, trans women, gay women and others frequently neglected by mainstream feminism for whom those in positions of relative privilege and safety must take Solnits gift of hope and keep pushing.
Robins is a writer and translator who lives in Los Angeles.
The Mother of All Questions
Rebecca Solnit
Haymarket Books: 180pp., $14.95 paper
Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) long has reigned as Congresss preeminent climate change denier. From his perch as chairman of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology, hes harassed government officials, Earth scientists and other academics whose work refutes his position that the human role in climate change is a myth.
Lately, hes moved on from trying to bully scientists by issuing subpoenas for their data and emails, to trying to bully state attorneys general investigating Exxon Mobil over allegations that it fraudulently undermined public understanding of climate change while possessing scientific evidence that the problem is real. The investigations stem in part from reporting by The Times and InsideClimate News into the companys decades-long campaign, via misinformation and disinformation, to cast doubt on climate change science.
Two weeks ago, Smith subpoenaed Eric Schneiderman and Maura Healey, the attorneys general of New York and Massachusetts, respectively, for documents of their contacts with 25 climate activists, scientists and legal experts among them former Vice President Al Gore and California billionaire Tom Steyer. The subpoenas were returnable on Thursday, but on that day Smiths inbox was bare, except for messages from the attorneys general advising him, essentially, to stuff it.
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The Subpoena oversteps the boundaries imposed by federalism, separation of powers, Committee jurisdiction, and pertinency requirements. New York Atty. Gen. Eric Schneiderman sends Rep. Lamar Smith packing
Smith didnt need Schneiderman or Healey to tell him that his quest to defend Exxon Mobil from legitimate government investigations was more than quixotic, but idiotic: His committee received testimony to that effect back in September from the Congressional Research Service and from Charles Tiefer, a former legal advisor to the House and Senate. Tiefer told the committee that the House had never issued a subpoena in two hundred years to a State Attorney General. With good reason: The action signaled a potential breach of state sovereignty as enshrined in the Bill of Rights.
Heres some background on Smith, whose credentials as a climate change denier are unassailable. He has dismissed a 2104 report by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which stated that human interference with the climate system is occurring and causes negative impacts on natural and human systems on all continents and across the oceans as nothing new and more political than scientific.
Responding to a White House report in May 2014 about the urgency of taking steps to address climate change, Smith said it was designed merely to frighten Americans into believing that any abnormal weather we experience is the direct result of human CO2 emissions. He added: In reality, there is little science to support any connection between climate change and more frequent or extreme storms.
In 2015, Smith presided over a move to slash NASAs Earth science budget, a move disguised as a gift for space exploration. I described Smiths announcement of the vote as a model of misdirection and deceit. It mentioned space and space exploration a couple of dozen times. Earth science got one mention, and that one was an undisguised political slam: The Obama administration has consistently cut funding for ... human space exploration programs, while increasing funding for the Earth Science Division by more than 63 percent.
Smiths motivation for dismissing established climate change science and protecting fossil fuel companies such as Exxon Mobil isnt hard to discern. If one adheres to the precept to follow the money, one discovers that pantsfuls of it flow from the oil and gas industry into Smiths campaign accounts. Oil and gas contributors have directed nearly $700,000 in Smiths direction since he entered in Congress in 1987; in the two congressional election cycles since 2013, when he became chairman of the science committee, oil and gas has been his top industrial source of campaign funding.
Smiths efforts to protect Exxon Mobil from state investigators began in May, when he issued identical letters to 17 state attorneys general, including Schneiderman, Healey and Californias Kamala D. Harris (now a U.S. senator). The letter, signed by Smith and nine Republican colleagues on the committee, denounced the states cooperative unprecedented effort against those who have questioned the causes, magnitude or best ways to address climate change.
The letter said their efforts to silence speech are based on political theater rather than legal or scientific arguments on how to combat climate change. Smith demanded that they turn over within 12 days documents dating back to 2012 having to do with their contacts related to climate change with such organizations as the Union of Concerned Scientists and the Rockefeller Family Fund, as well as with the U.S. Department of Justice, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Obama White House. The attorneys general told him then to stuff it, too.
New York and Massachusetts are the only states to actually issue subpoenas thus far to Exxon Mobil, which may be what inspired Smiths February subpoena. Schneiderman, in refusing to comply, delivered the back of his hand to Smiths assertion that he had narrowed the scope of his demand to make things easier for the states. In fact, Schneiderman observed, the new subpoena is broader than the original demand it targets not merely New Yorks investigation of Exxon Mobil, but all communications with other attorneys general and the 25 named individuals. The Subpoena oversteps the boundaries imposed by federalism, separation of powers, Committee jurisdiction, and pertinency requirements, he wrote. Worse, Smith appears to be trying to do Exxon a big favor by demanding documents that the company itself has sought to obtain from Schneiderman in court, so far to no avail.
How long does Lamar Smith intend to embarrass himself, his committee and Congress in this ridiculous quest to shut down investigations that could harm his patrons in the petroleum industry? Thats hard to know, but whats clear is that the interest hes protecting in this quest isnt the public interest, but Exxon Mobils.
Keep up to date with Michael Hiltzik. Follow @hiltzikm on Twitter, see his Facebook page, or email michael.hiltzik@latimes.com.
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When we first examined the potential flashpoints between the incoming Trump administration and California, marijuana ranked fairly low on the list, below climate policy, immigration and Obamacare.
That was in November. Since then, the divergence between state and federal policy on marijuana has come to look very real. The White House and Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions are talking tough about enforcing federal law, under which the cultivation, possession and distribution of pot are illegal just at the point when California officials are pondering how to make good on the voters directive to legalize the drug.
Approval of Proposition 64 made California one of eight states, plus the District of Columbia, to have legalized recreational use. In some respects, Californias law, which takes effect next Jan. 1, is more liberal than the others; it allows the public consumption of the drug, albeit only on the premises of a retailer and if the local municipality approves.
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Wed like to know whos making the decisions [about federal marijuana policy]. Is it Congress? The president? The attorney general? California Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom
Whether the Trump administration is serious about enforcing federal law is unclear; on the campaign trail, Trump often expressed the view that marijuana enforcement should be left to the states. But its that very murkiness thats creating problems for states such as California wishing to subject their newly legalized pot industries to regulation. Under Sessions, who is renowned as a hawk on marijuana enforcement, it appears unlikely that the administration will take proactive steps to assist the legalization movement spreading nationwide.
In a news conference last week, Sessions failed to clear the air. I dont think America is going to be a better place when more people of all ages and particularly young people start smoking pot, he said. States ... can pass the laws they choose. I would just say it does remain a violation of federal law to distribute marijuana throughout any place in the United States, whether a state legalizes it or not.
Any deliberate federal effort to strip the legal and publicly supported industry of its business, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a supporter of Proposition 64, wrote to Trump on Feb. 24, would hand it back to drug cartels and criminals. But inaction and confusion within Congress and Trumps inner circle create just as much of a problem.
Wed like to know whos making the decisions about marijuana policy, Newsom told me. Is it Congress? The president? The attorney general?
Federal law also has made it almost impossible for states to wean the industry from its cash-only roots, another obstacle to effective regulation. Under the so-called Cole memo issued by the Obama administration in 2013, the Department of Justice professed a hands-off approach to marijuana enforcement in legalizing states, except for efforts to keep the drug away from minors and keeping criminal gangs and cartels out of the industry. A few months later, the Treasury Department issued guidelines stating, in effect, that it would be legal for banks to provide financial services to marijuana-related businesses.
But those informal assurances havent quelled the banking industrys skittishness about opening accounts for cannabis companies and providing them with credit, California Treasurer John Chiang said in a letter to Trump prior to the inauguration. Proposition 64, Chiang wrote, might exacerbate the banking problem even more by immensely expanding the size of an industry accumulating a hoard of cash.
White House spokesman Sean Spicer addressed the issue at a Feb. 23 press briefing, but he delivered a jumble of ambiguities, misconceptions and misstatements that left doubt about whether the Trump administration has a policy and if so what it is, and whether it understands much about the legal and public health issues.
Spicer made a distinction between medical and recreational use of marijuana, implying that the legalizing states regulate the former rigorously and the latter sloppily. Its hard to know where he got that impression, given that legalized medical marijuana flowed virtually unimpeded into the recreational market in many states (including California), and those that have legalized recreational use have strived to create a workable regulatory system to standardize drug quality and keep it out of the hands of children.
Spicer linked marijuana use to the opiate crisis: When you see something like the opiate addiction crisis blossoming in so many states around this country, the last thing that we should be doing is encouraging people. That made many addiction experts cringe, since theres no evidence that marijuana use leads to opiate abuse, and emerging evidence indicates that opiate abuse is, if anything, lower in states that have legalized marijuana.
The press secretary left a muddled impression of what the Department of Justice actually will do. There is still a federal law that we need to abide by, Spicer said. He referred further questions to the DOJ, but said he believed youll see greater enforcement of the law against recreational use and that thats something the Department of Justice will be further looking into.
There isnt much question that the government could destroy the legal cannabis industry if it wished, says drug policy expert Mark A.R. Kleiman of New York University. U.S. attorneys could examine license applications from pot businesses in legalization states and obtain injunctions against the applicants in federal court, charging them with contempt if they flouted the injunctions.
But that would simply force the business back underground, re-creating the Prohibition-style headache that prevailed in the past. With 4,000 agents assigned nationwide to the Drug Enforcement Administration, Kleiman asks, How much of that DEA capacity do you want to use on marijuana, when you have a huge opiates problem?
Some experts are skeptical that administration talk about marijuana enforcement is anything more than puffery and typical right-wing Im-a-hard-line-drug-warrior rhetoric, in the words of Hilary Bricken, a Seattle lawyer who represents marijuana entrepreneurs. Her opinion would change, she says, if and when they repeal or replace the Cole memo. As it happens, 11 senators from marijuana legalization states including two Republicans on Thursday called on Sessions to uphold the Cole memo explicitly.
States that have legalized recreational marijuana are sailing amid numerous uncharted shoals. Newsom says the drafters of Proposition 64 learned from the experience of Washington and Colorado, in part by standardizing the potency of edible products and keeping them from being marketed in ways that appeal to children. But he acknowledges that effective state regulation depends on a spirit of collaboration and cooperation with the federal government, especially on efforts to wipe out the black market in pot even after legalization takes hold.
The best option plainly would be for the federal government to accept the inevitability of wider state legalization and remove the uncertainties created by the mismatch of state and federal law. If we had grown-ups in charge in Washington, Kleiman says, there would be a change in federal law, perhaps to grant waiver from marijuana enforcement to states that submitted reasonable regulatory proposals. Its ridiculous to have a situation where California has legalized a federal felony.
Keep up to date with Michael Hiltzik. Follow @hiltzikm on Twitter, see his Facebook page, or email michael.hiltzik@latimes.com.
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The Oscars saw in surge a viewership among African American households Sunday, a year after the motion picture academy came under fire for the lack of diversity among its nominees.
Nielsen data shows an average of 4.17 million black viewers were tuned into the 89th Academy Awards telecast, an increase of 30% over last year. The overall audience for the Oscars was 32.9 million, a 4% decline from the previous year and the lowest since 2008.
The Oscars averaged an 18.68 rating in African American homes, which is the highest number among the segment since 2014. The rating among black homes was higher than the overall rating of 18.39.
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A rating point represents a percentage of homes watching a program.
African Americans accounted for 13% of the audience for the Oscars. For the last four years that figure was 9%.
The sizable increases reflect the motion picture academys push to diversify the slates of all-white nominees that filled the major Oscar categories in recent years.
In 2016, the academy broadened its membership ranks by inviting 683 film industry professionals to join, 41% of whom were people of color. The result was a far more diverse lineup of nominees and winners for the 2017 awards.
Mahershala Ali won best supporting actor for his performance in Moonlight, which also won best picture. Viola Davis was honored as best supporting actress for Fences. Producer Ezra Edelman shared a best documentary Oscar for O.J.: Made In America. And Moonlight director Barry Jenkins won for the screenplay he co-wrote.
Other black acting nominees included Octavia Spencer for Hidden Figures, a best picture contender that told the story of African American women mathematicians who worked for NASA in the early 1960s, and Denzel Washington for Fences.
stephen.battaglio@latimes.com
Twitter: @SteveBattaglio
More than four decades after the last man walked on the lunar surface, several upstart space entrepreneurs are looking to capitalize on NASAs renewed interest in returning to the moon, offering a variety of proposals with the ultimate goal of establishing a lasting human presence there.
The commercial sectors interest comes as many anticipate support from the Trump administration, which is eager for a first-term triumph to rally the nation the way the Apollo flights did in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
The latest to offer a proposal is Jeff Bezos, whose space company Blue Origin has been circulating a seven-page white paper to NASA leadership and President Trumps transition team about the companys interest in developing a lunar spacecraft with a lander that would touch down near a crater at the south pole where there is water and near continuous sunlight for solar energy.
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The memo urges the space agency to back an Amazon-like shipment service for the moon that would deliver gear for experiments, cargo and habitats by mid-2020, helping to enable future human settlement of the moon. (Bezos, the founder of Amazon.com, owns The Washington Post.)
It is time for America to return to the moon this time to stay, Bezos said in response to emailed questions from The Post. A permanently inhabited lunar settlement is a difficult and worthy objective. I sense a lot of people are excited about this.
The Post obtained a copy of the white paper, marked proprietary and confidential, and the company then confirmed its authenticity and agreed to answer questions about it.
Bezos proposal comes as SpaceX founder Elon Musk made a stunning announcement this week that his company plans to fly two unnamed, private citizens on a tourist trip around the moon by next year an ambitious timeline that, if met, could beat a similar mission by NASA.
Anticipating that the Trump administration is focusing on the moon, the space agency recently announced it is considering adding astronauts to the first flight of its Space Launch System rocket and Orion crew capsule.
That flight, originally scheduled to fly without humans in 2018, would also circle the moon. But as the space agency seeks to move faster under the Trump administration, it is now studying the feasibility of adding crew for a mission that would then occur by 2019.
Blue Moon is all about cost-effective delivery of mass to the surface of the moon. Any credible first lunar settlement will require that capability. Jeff Bezos, Amazon founder
Obama killed plans for a lunar mission, saying in 2010 that weve been there before. But the administrations Mars plan was still far from actually delivering humans there, and critics grew frustrated that NASA has not been able to fly humans out of low Earth orbit since the 1970s. A shot around the moon, however, could be feasible, even within a few years.
Blue Origins proposal, dated Jan. 4, doesnt involve flying humans, but rather is focused on a series of cargo missions. Those could deliver the equipment necessary to help establish a human colony on the moon, unlike the Apollo missions, in which the astronauts left flags and footprints and then came home.
NASA already has shown a willingness to work closely with the commercial sector, hiring companies to fly supplies and eventually astronauts to the International Space Station. It is providing technical expertise, but no funding, as part of SpaceXs plan to fly an uncrewed spacecraft to Mars by 2020.
The prospect of a lunar mission has several companies lining up to provide not just transportation, but also habitats, science experiments and even the ability to mine the moon for resources.
The United Launch Alliance, the joint venture of Boeing and Lockheed Martin, has also been working on plans to create a transportation network to the area around the moon, known as cislunar space.
Im excited by the possibilities, said Tory Bruno, ULA chief executive. This administration, near as we can tell, feels a sense of urgency to go out and make things happen, and to have high-profile demonstrations that are along the road map to accomplish these broad goals. There is an opportunity to begin building that infrastructure right now within the next four years.
Robert Bigelow, the founder of Bigelow Aerospace, a maker of inflatable space habitats, said his company could create a depot that could orbit the moon by 2020, housing supplies and medial facilities, as well as humans. A smaller version of the possible habitats, known as the BEAM, is currently docked to the International Space Station, where astronauts have been testing it.
In an interview, Bigelow said he was glad the administration seems to be refocusing on the moon.
Mars is premature at this time. The moon is not, he said. We have the technology. We have the ability, and the potential for a terrific business case.
After remaining quiet and obsessively secretive for years, Blue Origins attempt to partner with NASA is a huge coming out of sorts for the company, which has been funded almost exclusively by Bezos. The paper urges NASA to develop a program that provides incentives to the private sector to demonstrate a commercial lunar cargo delivery service.
Blue Origin could perform the first lunar mission as early as July 2020, Bezos wrote, but he emphasized that it could only be done in partnership with NASA. Our liquid hydrogen expertise and experience with precision vertical landing offer the fastest path to a lunar lander mission. Im excited about this and am ready to invest my own money alongside NASA to make it happen.
Last year, Blue Origin successfully launched and landed its suborbital rocket, the New Shepard, five times within less than a year, flying just past the 62-mile edge of space and then landing vertically on a landing pad at the companys west Texas facility.
That same technology could be used to land the Blue Moon vehicle on the lunar surface, the company said. Its white paper shows what looks like a modified New Shepard rocket, standing on the moon with an American flag, a NASA logo and Blue Origins feather symbol.
The company said it plans to land its Blue Moon lunar lander at Shackleton Crater on the moons south pole. The site has near continuous sunlight to provide power through the spacecrafts solar arrays. The company also chose to land there because of the water ice in the perpetual shadow of the craters deep crevices.
Water is vital not just for human survival, but because hydrogen and oxygen in water could also be transformed into rocket fuel. The moon, then, is seen as a massive gas station in space.
The Blue Moon spacecraft could carry as much as 10,000 pounds of material and fly atop several different rockets, including NASAs Space Launch System, the United Launch Alliances Atlas V or its own New Glenn rocket, which is under development and expected to fly by the end of the decade, the company said.
Once on the surface, the landers useful payload can be used to conduct science or deploy rovers, the company said. A robotic arm attached to the lander will deploy to examine the lunar surface with an array of instruments.
The initial landing is envisioned as the first in a series of increasingly capable missions, including flying samples of lunar ice back to Earth for study.
The company said it could also help deliver the cargo and supplies needed for human settlements.
Blue Moon is all about cost-effective delivery of mass to the surface of the Moon, Bezos wrote. Any credible first lunar settlement will require that capability.
Christian Davenport writes for the Washington Post.
For some residents of this small city, there was something familiar about Foxconns recently announced plan to hire up to 50,000 U.S. workers, one of the many hiring pledges from companies rounded up by President Trump in the first weeks of his administration.
The only difference was the scale.
In 2013, Foxconns chairman sent a jolt through this state capital when he said his company best known for making Apple iPhones in China would invest $30 million and hire 500 workers for a new high-tech factory in central Pennsylvania.
Locals were giddy. Foxconn had a small office here, but this seemed like the start of an entire new industry. Pennsylvanias governor boasted about the deal. The Brookings Institution think tank hailed Foxconns decision as a sign of U.S. manufacturings strength.
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But the factory was never built. The jobs never came. It just seemed to fade to black after the announcement, recalled a local official. It was the start of a mystery, created by a chief executive known to promise projects all over the world that never quite pan out. Yet few people seem to notice. Foxconn and others continue to get credit for deals that never take place.
What happened in Harrisburg provides a skeptical lens for viewing the waves of corporate investment promises being used by Trump as evidence that he is following through on his campaign pledge to reinvigorate U.S. manufacturing.
Im delivering on everything we promised, Trump said Thursday during a meeting with manufacturing executives at the White House, noting how firms have announced new hiring and factories. People are saying theyve never seen so much happen in 30 days of a presidency.
Foxconn, for example, announced shortly after Trumps election that it plans to invest $7 billion and hire up to 50,000 workers in the United States. Such a hiring spree would catapult Foxconn from a couple thousand U.S. workers to a major employer on par with Chrysler.
Other companies, including SoftBank, Alibaba, Intel and IBM, have also made an unusual display of loudly announcing their intentions to invest in the United States all with price tags in the billions of dollars and the promise of tens of thousands of jobs much to Trumps delight.
But, as Harrisburg learned, the gulf between these eye-popping announcements and what takes place on the ground can be huge.
They are scrambling to look good, said Mark Selden, senior research associate at Cornell Universitys East Asian program. Its a sign of the pressure that Trump is placing on everyone in the world to deliver on his agenda.
Companies tend to view these announcements as an opening bid in a negotiation, said Alberto Moel, a senior analyst with Bernstein Research in Hong Kong. Firms know politicians like the splashy headlines. And if everything falls into place the business climate improves, they extract enough concessions such as tax breaks and free land they might be able to make it happen.
It actually puts the onus on the U.S. in a way, Moel said. They are saying: Im along for the ride. Heres my proposal.
If the deal falls apart, as it often does, no one is going to talk about it.
The government themselves arent going to remind you of that, Trump has no intention of helping you remember that, Moel said. Whats the downside?
Trump is far from alone in using corporate announcements as political backdrops. Its why ribbon-cuttings and ceremonial shovels exist.
In 2012, President Obama visited a new $5-billion Intel computer chip plant in Chandler, Ariz., citing it as an example of an America that is within our reach. But the facility, known as Fab 42, was never completed. Last week, Intel Chief Executive Brian Krzanich stood in the Oval Office with Trump to announce a $7-billion investment essentially, Fab 42 was back on track, with a new price tag and a new president. Trump tweeted his praise.
Two days after Trumps inauguration, Foxconn Chief Executive Terry Gou told reporters in Taiwan that his company planned to spend $7 billion on a U.S. factory to make computer displays. It wasnt iPhones which Trump has said he wants to be Made in the USA but Gou said the factory could create 30,000 to 50,000 U.S. jobs.
Foxconn said in a statement that it is exploring a potential investment that would represent an expansion of our current U.S. operations. But the company could not confirm the number of jobs that might be created.
Foxconn is a coveted hardware manufacturer because of its size. Last year, it reported $136 billion in revenue. It has more than 1 million employees, mostly in China. A single factory making iPhones or LCD screens can employ tens of thousands of workers.
Gou, Foxconns founder, for years has described the United States as a must-go market.
In 2014, as the Pennsylvania deal was quietly dying, Gou teased the opening of a LCD display factory in the U.S. His company talked with officials in Colorado and Arizona. Nothing happened.
That same year, the company signed a letter of intent to invest up to $1 billion in Indonesia. That investment still has not occurred.
Foxconn said it would invest $5 billion over five years in India as part of an ambitious expansion in 2014. The deal would create up to 50,000 jobs, Gou said. But Foxconns investment in India has amounted to only a small fraction of what it originally promised.
Similar results were seen in Vietnam, where Foxconn committed to a $5-billion investment in 2007, and in Brazil, where Foxconn spoke of a $10-billion plan in 2011. The company made its first major foray in Vietnam only last year. In Brazil, Foxconn has an iPhone factory, but its investment has fallen far short of expectations.
Theres a pattern here, said Moel, the analyst.
Gous plans for Harrisburg were revealed in 2013 while he was in the United States on a tour with other Taiwanese business officials to, in part, drum up support for Taiwans bid to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership, known as TPP. (Coincidentally, Trump pulled the United States out of the trade treaty in his first days in office.)
It was a surprise when Gou said Foxconn planned to invest $30 million over two years in a factory to make technology equipment and servers. Gou noted his companys history in Harrisburg. He said the goal was to create high-precision, high-tech, high-value-added manufacturing in the U.S.
Gou also said Foxconn would donate $10 million to Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh for robotics research.
IPhone maker Foxconn to invest $40 million in the US, wrote the China Post. Foxconn to build plant in Pennsylvania, CNN said. Local media quoted state officials as saying Gou would sign a memorandum of understanding and that the company was busy scouting sites.
There was this intense buzz, recalled David Black, president of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber.
Lots of us were excited by the opportunity, said Bub Manning, who at the time co-owned a local construction firm. Anytime something of that size comes along in central Pennsylvania, thats a big deal.
For years, Foxconn has maintained an office with about 50 workers in Harrisburg, a hub of the computer connector industry. The office is in an old brick warehouse. On a recent visit, the building was filled by a half-empty warren of cubicles. A worker declined to comment to a reporter with the Washington Post. According to local government officials, Foxconn has not done any permitted alterations to the building in 15 years.
Manning recalled how his firm tried to chase down information about the planned $30-million factory.
It felt like I was grabbing Jell-O. It never got any traction, Manning said.
The $30-million factory faded from view.
Foxconn said its $10-million donation to Carnegie Mellon was moving forward very successfully, with half of the funds having been spent four years later. The school declined to comment.
None of this has stopped the praise for Foxconns investment in Pennsylvania. Recent stories have referred to the phantom factory as a sign of Foxconns U.S. beachhead. A state economic development official wrote about Foxconns $30-million factory as evidence of foreign companies that operate in the Keystone State. (The piece was fixed after the Washington Post inquired about it.)
State officials toured potential sites with Foxconn representatives, the state Department of Community and Economic Development said in a statement, but "[u]nfortunately, a project did not come to fruition. Foxconn attributed the failure to material changes to the business and operating climate at that time.
The proof is always in the pudding, said Scott Andes, a senior policy analyst at Brookings.
The assumption is that companies follow through on major announcements. But it is important to be skeptical, Andes said. I would hope its not just smoke and mirrors with Foxconn or any other of these companies.
Todd C. Frankel writes for the Washington Post
Along many Los Angeles thoroughfares, large apartment complexes are replacing parking lots, strip malls and warehouses, as builders provide new homes in a city grappling with a persistent housing shortage.
In downtown, dozens of mixed-use condo and apartment towers are rising in the largest development boom since the 1920s. Other prominent neighborhoods, including Hollywood and Koreatown, are awash in residential construction.
This decade the city, in fact, will easily surpass the number of new homes built in the 1990s and possibly even during the 2000s with its housing bubble gains that have caused a backlash and spurred Measure S, an initiative on next weeks municipal ballot that would halt developments that receive certain zoning exemptions.
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But to many housing experts, the development wave isnt a wave, but rather a ripple.
L.A. keeps building near freeways, even though living there makes people sick
Thats because the city and region have long built too few homes for all the people who live, or want to live here, they say. And due to a recent surge in population, the city of Los Angeles this decade has been adding housing, relative to resident growth, at the lowest rate in at least 40 years, state records show.
We are so far behind, said Shane Phillips, policy director with the advocacy group Abundant Housing L.A., which is opposing Measure S.
The regions booming economy is exacerbating the problem.
From 2010 to 2015, L.A. added 157,900 new jobs and 236,318 residents greater than the population gains seen in the 1990s or 2000s. In 2015 alone, Los Angeles experienced the largest annual percentage growth in population of any major California city and surpassed 4 million residents.
The number of homes added didnt keep up: 40,014 units from 2010 to 2015 or one new home for about every 5.9 new residents.
Jordan Levine, an economist with the California Assn. of Realtors, said that if an area doesnt want housing costs to soar, it should roughly build inline with its current average household size.
That size has increased over the last 40 or so years in Los Angeles, but still remains fewer than three per household, according to data from the state Department of Finance.
That means housing production in Los Angeles has not kept up. Between 1975 and 2015, one new housing unit was constructed for every 3.7 new residents, the data show.
During most of that period, housing production sharply lagged relative to population growth. The exception was in the 2000s, when one unit was constructed for every 1.5 new residents as construction jumped and the city, in some years, lost residents.
Demographic experts said the gains in population this decade probably came from births and, to a lesser extent, immigration.
The population of 25-to-34-year-olds has also grown more than other age groups, said Dowell Myers, professor of policy, planning and demography at USC.
Baby boomers are holding on to the housing they already have and not giving it up. And these new people are coming in [to the housing market] and there is not enough housing units.
Brian Uhler, principal fiscal and policy analyst with the nonpartisan state Legislative Analysts Office, recently co-authored a report that found from 1980 to 2010, L.A. County needed to build three times the number of homes than it did to have stopped rent and home prices from significantly outpacing the rest of the country.
For the city of L.A., that rate was probably even higher. The problem definition is simple, he said. There are more people who want to live in L.A. than housing that gets built.
Thats not to say there isnt substantial construction, and it may be more noticeable as developers target property in older neighborhoods, rather than undeveloped land in the citys outskirts.
In some neighborhoods with a flood of new buildings, the supply is starting to affect rents, at least at the high end of the market. In downtown and Koreatown, some landlords of new complexes are offering move-in incentives such as a months free rent.
Century West Partners, for example, is paying renters $1,500, in addition to a month free on some units at its new Koreatown complex K2LA, where a one-bedroom starts at just over $2,000 a month.
Citywide, the median apartment rent for all units was $2,483 in January. Although that was up 5.6% from a year earlier, according to real estate firm Zillow, its less than the double-digit increases seen for most of 2015.
And even more housing is on the way.
Over the last two years, the citys Department of Building and Safety has approved tens of thousands of additional units, giving the city a decent shot at surpassing last decades housing construction.
But much of the building has been confined to a limited number of central neighborhoods and total production is far below the 1970s or 1980s, when more than 100,000 homes were built in each decade, according to state and census data.
Thats partly because fewer units can easily be built, said University of Calgary professor Greg Morrow, whose UCLA doctoral dissertation covered the history of Los Angeles zoning.
Amid concerns over traffic congestion and other environmental issues, the city and voters over the years slashed the number of homes that could be built without special approvals a time consuming process that involves public hearings and offers a prime target for lawsuits.
In 1960, Los Angeles planning rules would have allowed for a population of 10 million, according to Morrows research. By 2012, the city had reduced residential capacity to 4.3 million people.
You can downsize all you want, Morrow said. It doesnt stop people from having kids and we dont have a wall around the city, so people will come.
Voters next week could make it even harder to build more than current rules allow.
Measure S would place a two-year moratorium on zone changes or height district changes, while permanently barring, for individual projects, general plan amendments, which are typically needed for a land use change such as building homes in a manufacturing district.
A recent Times analysis found Measure S would stop the kinds of projects that tend to add lots of new units, but require few demolitions of older homes.
In 2015 alone, developers asked to build more than 8,000 units through general plan amendments, zone changes or height district changes, city records show. If those were all approved, fewer than 150 rent controlled units would be demolished.
But stopping exemptions is a good thing, according to Measure S proponents, who say the projects that receive them are too often out-of-scale luxury developments that dont soften rents in older buildings nearby, but instead fuel gentrification, while grid-locking traffic.
We are talking about wholesale evaporation and gentrification of communities, said Damien Goodmon, deputy campaign manager for the Yes on S campaign.
Or the opposite could happen as older, less desirable housing units are left vacant. Consider Normandie Avenue in Koreatown.
Logan Alexander, who manages a 1930s building there, said new complexes nearby are limiting his ability to lift rents.
When a tenant moved out last fall who was paying $1,450 for a one-bedroom unit, Alexander said he tried to get $1,575, then $1,525. Hes now seeking $1,495, just above what the previous tenant was paying.
Ive lost some tenants to new buildings, he said. Units are sitting vacant for a longer time.
andrew.khouri@latimes.com
Follow me @khouriandrew on Twitter
ALSO
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You might own Snaps non-voting stock soon, like it or not
The new shares of stock that Snapchat parent Snap Inc. priced at $17 apiece Wednesday dont have the voting rights that customarily come with public company stock.
If you dont like that arrangement and many big investment firms dont you can simply choose not to buy Snap shares when they start trading on Thursday.
But you probably wont be able to avoid non-voting Snap stock for long.
Not today, and not this month, but eventually, many investors, even ones who bristle at Snap Inc.s share structure, will wind up owning a piece of the Venice company.
Snap is so large and so valuable that, barring an immense decline in its share price, it will almost certainly be included in many of the stock indices that determine where retirement savers and other passive investors put their money. That means that if you have a 401(k), an IRA or a pension plan, you will own some Snap shares, even if youd rather not.
Take, for instance, the California State Teachers Retirement System. The massive pension fund one of the nations largest is a member of the Investor Stewardship Group, a new coalition of pension and investment firms that advocates for, among other things, shareholder voting rights.
Aeisha Mastagni, a CalSTRS investment officer, doesnt like that Snap shares have no voting power, but she also acknowledges that, because CalSTRS invests much of its assets in index funds, the pension giant will wind up owning some Snap shares anyway.
We dont want to encourage this kind of bad behavior, Mastagni said, referring to Snaps non-voting share structure. But at the end of the day, CalSTRS will ultimately own Snap if it ends up in the index.
Snap could be added to indices managed by London Stock Exchange operator FTSE Russell as early as June. Snap will have a market capitalization large enough to be part of the widely followed Russell 1000 and Russell 3000 indices, which track the nations largest 1,000 and 3,000 public companies, respectively.
S&P Global, the company that manages the benchmark S&P 500 index, generally waits at least a year and often longer to add newly public companies to its stock indices. Companies must be worth at least $5.3 billion to be added to the S&P 500, so as long as Snap shares dont tank over the next year or two, the company could be in line to join the index sometime in 2018.
When companies are added to big indices, their stocks tend to gain as investment funds that track those indices must buy shares, boosting demand.
Corporate culture has long been the sort of squishy management consultant term thats hard to define, even harder to change, and the recipient of lots of lip service yet little action by chief executives.
But its importance was stamped into stark relief after a former Uber engineer recently made allegations about its sexist, chaotic and aggressive culture a game-of-thrones political war, she called it at the San Francisco company in a deeply unsettling blog post about her experience there.
The viral essay spawned devastating follow-up stories by journalists about the companys Hobbesian environment and its human resources mess. It revived a #DeleteUber social-media boycott of the ride-sharing app that cropped up following President Trumps travel ban. On CNBC, one venture capitalist called the allegations a huge deal as the company moves toward an expected initial public stock offering.
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More and more, stories depicting aggressive corporate cultures are both the source of fascination in a social-media-driven world and a potential reputation risk that goes well beyond what a companys current employees and future recruits think of it.
Uber is the latest example. The fake accounts scandal at Wells Fargo laid bare a toxic sales environment fueled by high-pressure sales goals. A widely read story about Amazons hard-charging corporate culture in the New York Times in 2015 prompted pushback from the company months later.
A companys culture has long been an underlying actor in any story about its successes, its struggles or its failures. (Enron, anyone?) But human resources and corporate reputation experts say that shifting expectations of consumers and employees, the role of social media and increasing interest from investors in corporate culture have driven the topic to the forefront, making exposure of a companys how we do things around here approach more salient and precarious than ever.
People and analysts, in particular, are starting to say how a company treats its employees needs to be factored into valuations of the company, said Brian Kropp, the human resources practice leader of the consultancy CEB. A lot of them are starting to look at this issue and say thats going to have material impact on the company.
Social media is a big driver. And growth of sites like Glassdoor give anyone with an Internet connection the chance to offer unvarnished reviews of what its like to work for a company as easily as theyd review a movie.
That makes it harder for companies to stay ahead of any negative impressions online. Youve got to respond quicker, says Bob Sutton, a professor at Stanford Universitys Graduate School of Business. Its higher risk and harder to control than it used to be.
Expectations by employees and consumers, meanwhile, have also shifted.
Research has shown that consumers dont need to experience bad treatment themselves to think twice about buying from a company. Christine Porath, a professor at Georgetown Universitys McDonough School of Business, found in lab experiments that when customers witness uncivil behavior between two employees, not only do they think badly of those employees, but they generalize really dramatically to the organization and the brand, she said. Just 20% of participants in her study said they would do business with the firm again, she found.
Investors are also more focused on culture. Kropp said analysts he interviewed told him that companies that had a better grasp of how their employees were doing were more successful navigating the financial crisis, which spurred their interest in tracking the issue more closely.
He says that could be a factor for Uber, which is reported to have a valuation of nearly $70 billion and is expected to go public in 2018. My guess is investors are taking a step back and saying those are real risks, Kropp said.
Johndrow says corporate reputation is less likely to take a hit if consumers dont feel the effects directly, as they did with the Wells Fargo scandal. The biggest reputation risk for Uber, he says, will be its ability to attract and retain the best employees in the fallout of the most recent news. But consumers may not be far behind. The repeated bad headlines, he says from viral video of the CEOs angry encounter with an Uber driver to what people misperceived as an effort to profit after Trumps travel ban means that for some consumers, were nearing the 1,000th cut.
McGregor writes a column analyzing leadership in the news for the Washington Posts On Leadership section.
Television producer and Friends co-creator Marta Kauffman used to call this oceanfront spot in Malibu home when she owned a 4,400-square-foot house on the site.
She and former husband, Emmy-winning composer Michael Skloff, parted with the property a decade ago for $10.725 million and the house was torn down. Standing in its place is a newly built, Cape Cod-inspired compound that now lists for sale at $57.5 million.
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Sitting behind gates on nearly two acres of grounds, the Doug Burdge-designed house is reached by a long, sloping drive that passes by a guesthouse and swimming pool before ending at a large motor court.
Inside, wide-plank oak floors, white-painted ceilings and sets of French doors give the interiors a breezy coastal vibe. Among features is an elevator, an open-plan living room, a chefs kitchen with a marble-topped island and an office.
On the second floor, an ocean-facing balcony extends from the master suite. Including the guesthouse, there are six bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms.
A sunken lounge and an open-air pavilion with a pizza oven and two stone-topped bars accompany the pool. At the edge of the property, steps lead down to the shore below.
Chris Cortazzo of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage holds the listing. The property is also being marketed by REX, an alternative real estate brokerage.
neal.leitereg@latimes.com
Twitter: @NJLeitereg
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Its no secret that Uber has a sometimes tense relationship with policymakers around the world; much of the San Francisco ride-hailing companys explosive rise has been attributed to its willingness to defy regulation. But now it seems that in some places, Uber may have resorted to extraordinary measures to identify and defeat law enforcement officers in a years-long game of cat and mouse.
In what some employees have questioned as an ethically and legally murky maneuver, Uber has mined some customers geolocation data, credit card information, app usage habits and social media profiles to determine whether they may be working for city governments or rival ride-hailing services or intend to harm Uber drivers, according to a report by the New York Times.
The program, code-named Greyball, surfaced in 2014 when Portland, Ore., officials posing as regular customers tried to request rides on Uber to gather evidence that the company was operating illegally in the city, according to the report. But rather than procuring a driver for the customer, the service showed officials a fake version of the app with drivers who didnt really exist. Any drivers who did respond would quickly cancel the rides, sometimes through direct intervention from Uber itself via phone calls to a driver who had mistakenly picked up a fake fare.
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This program denies ride requests to fraudulent users who are violating our terms of service, said Uber in a statement, whether thats people aiming to physically harm drivers, competitors looking to disrupt our operations, or opponents who collude with officials on secret stings meant to entrap drivers.
The report on Ubers covert activities is the latest blow for a company that has suffered a growing backlash in recent weeks. It adds to accusations of sexual harassment by a former engineer, widespread defections by customers upset over Chief Executive Travis Kalanicks handling of the company and an apology by Kalanick after a video showed him getting into an argument with an Uber driver about driver wages.
Greyball reportedly began as a tool to flag abusive riders in countries where violence against Uber drivers is common. But the company eventually discovered its utility as a way to identify problematic government officials, the report said. To determine whether a user warrants special treatment, Greyball reportedly looks at roughly a dozen factors, such as whether a customer who spends a lot of time around government buildings frequently opens and closes the app.
Once it believes it has found an offending user, Uber tags the individual with a bit of code, according to the report. In addition to regulators, Greyball has also been used to prevent taxi drivers from getting a fix on Uber drivers locations. The practice was approved by Ubers lawyers, according to the report.
This would not be the first time Uber has covertly taken aim at rivals; the company was said in 2014 to have engaged in corporate warfare with its U.S. competitor Lyft by secretly poaching Lyfts drivers. It has also run grass-roots organizing campaigns designed to influence state legislatures. In other cases, Uber executives have suggested digging up opposition research on journalists to get its way, and another information-gathering tool named God View enabled Uber to track the locations of its users without their knowledge.
In Portland, officials sought to gather evidence for Ubers illegal operations by having the authorities request rides on the app. But, having been flagged by Greyball, law enforcement officials were left hanging the fake version of the app failed to get them any rides. Soon after, the city began to allow Uber to operate legally in the city.
Security analysts say that with the amount of personal information freely available on the Internet, it is almost inevitable that a company such as Uber would move to exploit it.
Greyballing is an acceptable business risk in the poorly governed realm of cyberspace, said Kenneth Geers, a former analyst at the National Security Agency and a senior research scientist at Comodo, a global cybersecurity firm.
But unlike its other efforts at shaping policy, Ubers Greyball appears to be a far more technologically sophisticated and systematic approach to outmaneuvering the opposition. And it may be one of Ubers most closely held trump cards.
Now that policymakers are aware of Greyball, other analysts say, they could take steps to make the tool illegal forcing Uber to adapt again in its push to expand into new markets.
Fung writes for the Washington Post.
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It all started in a city with a taste for single malt whiskey and classical music and an obliging beverage company. Suntory Hall opened here 30 years ago, transforming the musical and to some extent city life of Tokyo and leading to a concert hall building boom that extended throughout Japan and eventually the world.
Suntory, tucked away in a fancy shopping complex, makes no statement on the street, as you might expect from its corporate benefactor. The statement was left to a young acoustician named Yasuhisa Toyota, who put the listener in the middle of the music. This was Toyotas, and Japans, first vineyard-style hall.
Conservative Japanese audiences were quick to complain. A hall layout where neither the listener nor the musician has any place to hide visually or audibly was a bit too in your face. But Suntory had the blessing of the conductor the Japanese most admired. The Berlin Philharmonics music director, Herbert von Karajan, had overseen the construction of his own early vineyard-style concert hall, the celebrated 1963 Philharmonie.
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Japanese acoustician Yasuhisa Toyota speaks during an interview at Suntory Hall in Tokyo. (Eugene Hoshiko / AP)
Tokyo was already Asias classical music capital, with a couple of decent and not-so-decent halls, but music felt newly alive in Suntory. Once the hall began presenting all the great names and ensembles in classical music more year in and year out than any other venue, Carnegie Hall included greater Tokyo couldnt help but notice. Over the next two decades, dozens of concert halls, big and small, were built throughout the country, many driven by Toyota.
These days, the shiny new halls in America and Europe, beginning with what may still be Toyotas greatest masterpiece, the vineyard-style Walt Disney Concert Hall, get the attention. Toyotas first Berlin venue, the Frank Gehry-designed Pierre Boulez Saal, is debuting. In California, we boast Toyota acoustics in, along with Disney and REDCAT, four outstanding college concert halls (at Stanford, USC, Chapman in Orange and Soka in Aliso Viejo).
Over the last year, Ive visited several of Toyotas halls in Japan to sense the effect theyve had on the musical and, perhaps, civic life of their communities.
Suntory, which has just closed for maintenance after celebrating its 30th anniversary season, remains far and away the most prestigious concert address in the East, no matter the architecturally stunning opera houses and concert halls popping up in China, Indonesia, the Emirates and the Southern Caucasus.
Although Suntory may not have all the sophistication of Toyotas latest designs, its sound remains engagingly immediate. The Vienna Philharmonic, an annual visitor that helped lead off the anniversary celebrations in the fall, sounds remarkably comfortable here despite the radical difference between modern Suntory and the orchestras heavenly 19th century home, the Musikverein.
Zubin Mehta conducted standard repertory, not always with a lot of spunk. A downside to Suntorys prominence is that famous orchestras, knowing the Japanese reverence for tradition, too easily get away with the same old, same old.
Finlands Pietari Inkinen conducts the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra during their concert at Suntory Hall in Tokyo. (Koji Sasahara / AP)
Mehta did not push the Viennese, and Mozart and Brahms succumbed to blandness. But an opulent Bruckners Seventh Symphony and a sometimes radiant Beethovens Ninth felt, in this environment, as Viennese as a Sacher torte rushed overnight to Tokyo.
The dozen professional orchestras in the greater Tokyo area dont have quite so much to thank Suntory for, what with the worlds great orchestras coming to town on a regular basis and playing in the citys best space. Neither the New York Philharmonic nor the London orchestras have this much competition.
Yet when some of these Tokyo orchestras repeat their most important concerts in Suntory, their stature grows. Im not sure why anyone would want to hear Japans most stellar orchestra, the NHK, play in its home multipurpose barn if the program is to repeat in Suntory.
Most of Toyotas best halls resemble Suntory, but Triphony Hall, in the Sumida section of Tokyo, is ideal for the connoisseur of fragile sounds. That surely accounts for the resident Japan Philharmonics ability to play so quietly that, yes, you can imagine hearing a pin drop. All Toyota halls train audiences as well as musicians, but the Triphony regulars are special, even for Japanese devotees.
Still, a great hall remains but a tool and ultimately is only as good as its management. The same can be true of orchestras. The acoustical designs for Sapporos Kitara hall, now turning 20, were made around the same time Toyota was working on Disney, and there is a certain similarity to the sound. But the Sapporo Symphony has little to show for its two decades in Kitara, likely due to a lack of hall access for rehearsal and a management fondness for tired European conductors with a penchant for phoning it in.
The opposite tale is told in the ancient capital, Kyoto. Its seductively elegant hall by Arata Isozaki, the architect of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, is hidden away like one of Kyotos incomparable temples, which it in some ways resembles.
When the hall opened in 1995, the Kyoto Symphony was not up to the challenge of performing Mahlers gargantuan Eighth Symphony, and the venue was deemed a failure. In fact, it is anything but. Its my second favorite Toyota hall after Disney. The combination of an immaculate acoustic in a Zen-like environment requires unpretentious refinement, and that is what the Kyoto Symphony has now begun to acquire.
It so happens that the Kyoto Symphony will try again with Mahlers Eighth on March 27. A month later, former L.A. Opera Music Director Kent Nagano will lead the Eighth with his Hamburg Philharmonic State Orchestra in Toyotas hall. There is little to worry about anymore.
mark.swed@latimes.com
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The often emotionally wrenching drama Fair Haven pushes back against the faulty practice of ex-gay conversion therapy without turning overly didactic or heavy-handed. Its a testament to Jack Bryants lovely script and Kerstin Karlhubers thoughtful direction that this controversial concept is handled with such even-handedness and grace.
Set in rural Vermont, the movie opens as 19-year-old James (Michael Grant), a handsome pianist, returns home from a stay at a Christian-based reparative therapy clinic led by a resolute doctor (Gregory Harrison, in unsettling flashbacks). Back at his familys longtime apple farm, Fair Haven, its just James and his father, Richard (Tom Wopat), a sad, seemingly lost widower who sent James away to change and is now thwarting his sons plan to attend a Boston music college.
For the record: An earlier version of this review transposed the first name of actor Josh Green with that of his character, Charlie.
James struggles with life on the ailing farm, the dispiriting prospect of community college and the romantic advances of a preachers daughter (Lily Anne Harrison, Gregorys daughter), all while attempting to keep his distance from his ex-boyfriend, Charlie (Josh Green), a kindly guy still carrying a torch for James.
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The palpable, yet guarded, longing here between James and Charlie added to the bucolic locale suggests a mini-Brokeback Mountain, but with somewhat younger, less tragic men. The result is a stirring, well-acted, tenderly wrought story of fathers and sons and sons and lovers.
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Fair Haven
No rating
Running time: 1 hour, 32 minutes
Playing: Laemmle Monica Film Center, Santa Monica
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The Oscars best-picture winners tend to come in waves, sometimes in keeping with the culture but certainly in tune with trends in the movie industry. Its denizens, after all, are the ones who vote for them.
The early 1970s saw The French Connection, The Sting and two Godfather movies win over a four-year period. Those are the kinds of finely tuned, character-driven genre films that marked the era, and they were rewarded by Oscar voters at the time.
Then there was the upscale commercialism call it art-house-lite of the late 1990s and early 2000s. These were the movies most epitomized by Miramax The English Patient, Chicago, Shakespeare in Love and American Beauty. OK, the last one isnt actually a Miramax film. Its an honorary one, though.
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A similarly distinct chapter seems to be upon us now. We already appeared to be there in the wake of last years Oscars. But after the surprising events of this past Sunday, with Moonlight shocking front-runner La La Land, were really in the thick of it: an era in which small, gritty dramas with a certain conviction of purpose almost always seem to prevail.
The past four best pictures have been, in order, 12 Years a Slave, Birdman, Spotlight and Moonlight. These winners have more than a few elements in common. All deal with difficult subjects. All are very much the result of the singular vision of a director; swap in another and they look almost entirely different. And none (this is very much a product of the first point) cost much more than $20 million to make.
Challenging movies, in Hollywood parlance. Or just indie movies, even though technically thats true for only some of them. (Indeed, two of the four come from Brad Pitts production company, which speaks volumes about how far ahead of this trend hes been.)
In nearly any other Oscar era, just one of the above four movies winning would be a triumph. Heck, if you go back a few decades, even getting one of these movies nominated would have been a huge victory. And now we have a four-year streak in which those films have all won, and almost always defeating a movie with far more resources and commercial appeal your Gravitys, your Revenants your La La Lands. The lone exception was the year of Birdman that season there were actually two small movies at the finish line, with Boyhood also right there. Its clearly a sea change.
Heres the most telling stat: In the first quarter-century of the Film Independent Spirit Awards, that ceremonys best movie won Oscars best picture just once. In the past six years, its happened five times.
In explaining this shift, you could talk about a lot of factors: the fact that studios these days tend to go for hyper-commercial, globally appealing, effects-driven franchises that dont tend to win awards, for instance, leaving the field open for these sorts of smaller pictures.
You could talk about a Motion Picture Academy of shifting demographics, which is why best-picture winners tend to be more socially aware now, filled with people of color, dealing with issues of race and sexual politics. Even Birdman, the player in the quartet that least fits this definition, was made by a Mexican-born director and confronted issues of white privilege and identity.
You could even talk about the generation that grew up in the salad days of independent film those who were in college when Tarantino and Soderbergh and various Andersons (Wes and Paul Thomas) were making their mark a couple decades back now having a larger foothold in Hollywood.
But the biggest factor may be how the academy chooses best pictures using a system called preferential voting, or ranked voting. That system, it turns out, is very kind to small, gritty movies.
First, some quick math. Before 2010, when the academy just had five best-picture nominees, it used a straight up-and-down vote, as it does for all other major categories. But when it expanded to 10 (later changed to be a variable number that went up to 10), it also switched to preferential voting.
In essence, it works like this: Voters rank their best pictures from 1 to 8 or 9 (however many nominees there are that year). Votes are then counted through a series of staged runoffs: Each ballot is placed in a pile according to which film is ranked first.
But thats only when the fun starts.
If one stack doesnt nab 50% of the total votes (this almost never happens), the shortest stack is thrown out and its ballots redistributed to the pile of those ballots second choices. If the 50% threshold isnt reached for any stack after this process (again, rare), tabulators go to the next shortest stack and do it again going to the second choice and, if thats already been discarded, to the third, and redistributing it there. And so on, until one stack reaches 50% and is declared the winner. (This post explains it well.)
There are various theories about the effect this has, but almost all experts agree that under this system youre better off being liked by many than loved by a few or, in numerical terms, youre nearly always better off being everybodys second favorite and getting no top votes than being No. 1 with, say, a third of the voters and the middle of the pack with everyone else.
The reason is simple: By the time youre working your way down to the third or fourth choice in the short stacks, one pile almost certainly gets to 50%.
This is a major shift from when the race was about just five best-picture candidates and a straight up-or-down vote. Then, if you were a producer with a movie that snagged a third of peoples choices, youd have a pretty good chance of winning, since the other four nominees would be left to split the remaining 66%, and what single movie was going to get more than half that? But with ranked voting, you can neutralize a solid amount of No. 1 votes with a plethora of No. 2 and No. 3 votes.
Thats why smaller gems do so well in this system. Because you dont need to be a lot of peoples favorite you dont need to be a juggernaut. You just have to be sure youre close enough with a wide swath of people to neutralize the favorites advantage.
Put another way, you dont want to be the broader, more front-runnery movie, with all the divisiveness that often entails. You want to be the smaller movie that almost everyone has fondness for. They may not put you No. 1, but they sure as heck will put you No. 2. And thats enough.
Youd rather be Moonlight or Spotlight, in other words, than La La or Revenant.
Its why, in 2010, the first year of the system, one of the smallest, grittiest movies ever to win best picture, The Hurt Locker, took the prize defeating the behemoth that was Avatar.
There were a few years when things reverted, in large part because those smaller, widely liked films werent much in competition. But in 2014 this trend asserted itself with a vengeance. In a pretty clear two-way heat between 12 Years and Gravity essentially that seasons version of Hurt Locker and Avatar the smaller, grittier film won. In the last two years, its happened again.
(It is, of course, no guarantee that a smaller film wont be divisive, and a big commercial movie can build consensus. Generally, though, smaller films, more serious films, less 800-pound gorilla films, tend to garner more goodwill, and thus more No. 2 and No. 3 votes, than the bigger-budgeted, lighter-minded commercial beasts, which tend to generate a decent-sized Oscar backlash.)
Lets look more specifically at how that plausibly played out this year. Well never know for sure, of course not unless the Pricewaterhouse gatekeepers start tweeting a lot more selfies but this is a reasonable scenario.
At more than $300 million globally, La La was clearly a favorite. But it wasnt everyones favorite. Were the academy folks who werent putting it first putting it second? Ive talked to a lot of voters in the past few weeks, and if they didnt like La La whether because it was a juggernaut or it was too light, or for whatever reason they didnt like it they werent putting it No. 2. They were very likely dropping it down to 6, or 7, or 8. A movie is almost never getting counted on those ballots.
Alternately, I talked to a lot of voters about Moonlight. Plenty didnt put it at No. 1. But so, so many of them put it at No. 2. A bunch more put it at No. 3. No one I talked to was putting it lower than four. Literally, no one. There was simply too much good feeling for this small, intimate indie. That means its stack kept growing. It also means it actually may well have scored best picture (again, well never know for sure) even though it had fewer No. 1 votes than La La Land.
And, of course, the system perpetuates itself. The more of these smaller, hard-nosed films win, the more get made. (The luckiest person in town Monday morning was the producer trying to get funding for a tender and subtle drama.) And the more that get made, the deeper the pool; the deeper the pool, the more likely they are to win best picture in future years.
It remains to be seen where this goes. Some Oscar eras manage to endure. The Miramax/Harvey Weinstein era lasted a long time and then recurred again nearly a decade later with The Kings Speech and The Artist. Other patterns are blips. Eras change; trends fade.Its hard to know where the Spotlight/Moonlight period will take us.
But this much is known. After the last couple years, it makes sense to follow the light. Or at least the smaller, handmade auteur movies into it.
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steve.zeitchik@latimes.com
Twitter: @ZeitchikLAT
Zoey Deutch has been going to Arts Delicatessen since she was 1 week old. Her friends have tried to get her to go to Canters, but she refuses to cheat on her beloved Studio City haunt.
Which explains why shes cozied up to Tony who has been a waiter at Arts for decades inside one of the delis booths. They are showing each other photos of their dogs. Tony has a West Highland Terrier named Yogi; Deutch has a pit bull named Maybelle.
Did you send Yogi the photo we took of ourselves? Deutch asks. He does have a phone, right?
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Tony laughs and scoots out of the booth, asking if he could get his babe anything to eat. Deutch requests a cup of matzo ball soup and a plate of potato latkes, and off Tony goes.
Its slightly jarring to see the 22-year-old being so chummy with the waiter after watching Before I Fall, her new movie in which she plays a high school mean girl. Based on Lauren Olivers 2010 young adult novel, the film is a kind of Groundhog Day for teenagers.
Deutch stars as Samantha, a 17-year-old who seems to have it all: a hot boyfriend, the coolest group of friends and really good hair to boot. One night, after she and her fabulous posse are leaving a party, they get into a car accident that magically freezes Samantha in a time loop, making it so that she wakes up every morning and is forced to relive the same day of high school over and over again. Not surprisingly, the experience leads the protagonist to do some serious reflecting about the way she treats people.
Out Friday, Before I Fall marks the first lead role for Deutch. Though shes had prominent supporting parts before in Richard Linklaters Everybody Wants Some! and opposite James Franco in Why Him?, this is her first starring vehicle this is her first movie where the poster features only her face.
So shes been getting a lot of attention lately. When Before I Fall premiered in January at the Sundance Film Festival where she also had a small role in the J.D. Salinger biopic Rebel in the Rye critics were quick to anoint her the latest It girl, a title she despises.
We never hear the term It guy, Deutch said. But putting that aside, Im very ambitious, and I hate the way that theres a negative connotation for ambition. Because I think it means youre just willing to work hard for something you want and love. I have no delusions of grandeur of how this goes. I know its a really difficult and up and down path, so that It girl thing just bugs me.
Deutch gets her hair and makeup touched up during a photoshoot. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)
Shes a power lady. Shes not just a Hollywood starlet. Shes a force in her own right. Director Ry Russo-Young on Zoey Deutch
Deutch is well-acquainted with the realities of Hollywood thanks to her parents, Lea Thompson and Howard Deutch, who have been working in the business since she was born. Her mother is an actress best known for her roles in the Back to the Future films and the NBC sitcom Caroline in the City; her father is a director (Pretty in Pink, Some Kind of Wonderful).
I have a lot of friends with famous parents who, when theyre doing press, have their publicists say its off-limits to talk about their parents, she says. That never even crossed my mind. First of all, Im too much of a loose cannon to try to censor myself. But Im also not ashamed of them. Im proud of them. Im lucky to have parents that support and love and encourage me, and I have zero say in that privilege. Thats luck. But me being in Before I Fall is working hard. I have no complex about that.
Bryan Cranston, who played the father to Deutchs character in Why Him?, says he had no idea who the actress parents were until production was underway. When they visited the set, he made sure to tell them what a wonderful job he thought theyd done in raising her.
I said, Youve got a very special girl here. If you guys are out of town for Thanksgiving, send her over, the actor says. I just fell in fatherly love with her, almost as much as my own. Id adopt her.
Ry Russo-Young, who directed Before I Fall, describes a similar love affair with the actress. Before the 24-day shoot began, the two women spent weeks together blocking out how to film the movie a confusing process that called for Deutch to act out the same scene on different days from one take to the next.
She would say to me on set, Should we try it this way? Do we need that? We got into it together, says Russo-Young, 35. She pushed me to fight for whats important. Shes one of those people where youre like, You do sleep, dont ya, honey? Shes a maniac. I guess Im old, but shes a true millennial. Im like, How are you tweeting and looking at photos and Photoshopping at the same time? Shes a power lady. Shes not just a Hollywood starlet. Shes a force in her own right.
Deutch says she aspires to have a career like Sandra Bullocks to be the kind of actress who you dont immediately associate with either drama or comedy. Shed also like to go to college, and is currently paying tutors to help her learn about political science. At Sundance, she took part in the womens march and is vocal about her support of Planned Parenthood on social media.
Look, she says, lifting up her sweatshirt to reveal a T-shirt that says a womans womb is more controlled than guns. Before I was an actor, I was a human and a citizen. People have told me to stop posting that stuff. But people also told me to tweeze my eyebrows.
Zoey Deutch, center, and others march down Main Street during the March on Main event during the Sundance Film Festival. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times)
We never hear the term It guy . . . so that It girl thing just bugs me. Zoey Deutch
She takes out the designer purse shed inherited from her mother and starts to dig through it, searching for her credit card.
Also, what is wrong with me? she says, holding up a ragged plastic sandwich baggie containing her money. I cant afford a wallet, apparently. I also have, like, a lollipop and a shirt in here.
She dumps out the contents of her bag: The lollipop shed taken from the jar at the front of the deli. A rumpled crop top. A disposable camera, as if it were 1999. A tin full of Altoids and oil of oregano, which, she says, is just good for everything in general.
After she sorts her things, she looks out the window across the street. Theres a building with gleaming, golden onion domes, which might seem out of place alongside the Urban Outfitters and California Pizza Kitchen on Ventura Boulevard.
Ive never seen anyone go in there once in my life, she says. Maybe its a klerb. (Thats club, for all of us older than 22.)
Would you like to go? she asks. I want to do, like, an undercover mission. Investigative journalism! Lets go find whats going on over there.
She rounds up her herbal supplements and money baggie, hugs Tony goodbye and heads for the door. I bet this is going to be so anticlimactic, she says, crossing the street.
A few minutes later, shes standing below a sign that reads Romanov. Later, a quick Google search would reveal that Romanov is a Russian restaurant that boasts an environment that is reminiscent of the Tsars Winter Palace. But Deutch is unaware of this information at 5 p.m. on this Thursday, when she takes an elevator up to the space and finds a lone server wiping down tables.
Hello? the actress inquires. Is this a restaurant?
Um, yeah? the employee responds.
OK! Deutch said. Im leaving now!
She returns to the elevator, a giddy smile overtaking her face. Well, now I know.
amy.kaufman@latimes.com
Follow me on Twitter @AmyKinLA
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Hollywood is often accused of existing in its own bubble that bears little resemblance to the world at large. So when it comes to the film industrys biggest night, its no surprise that hosts of the Academy Awards often go to great lengths to prove its just like the rest of America.
Jimmy Kimmel, host of Sundays Oscars, put his own spin on this trend by setting up a stunt that tricked a busload of Tinseltown tourists into stumbling into the Dolby Theatre with the ceremony already in progress.
His stunt wasnt exactly new, though. In 2014, host Ellen DeGeneres had an unsuspecting delivery man distribute pizza in the auditorium and he ended up with a $1,000 tip for his efforts. And Chris Rock, who hosted last year, brought out a local Girl Scout troop to sell cookies to hungry millionaires.
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In Kimmels version, the unsuspecting tourists came into the ceremony and were immediately brought in front of the crowd. The host asked their name and where they were from, introduced them to celebrities and offered to let them touch Mahershala Alis Oscar.
Some thought it was a charming display of Hollywoods star power, but for others it was unclear who was the butt of the joke.
When DeGeneres ordered pizza, she was ribbing herself and the audacity of following through with a live pizza delivery. When Rock brought in Girl Scouts to shake down the Hollywood elite, the joke was on the attendees, who got a taste of what the rest of us experience with every trip to Ralphs. (The taste? Thin Mint.)
The success of Kimmels stunt depends on whom you consider the rube in this situation. Was it Jennifer Aniston, who was shamed into giving a stranger her sunglasses? Was it Gary From Chicago whose charming antics garnered him instant Internet fame followed by immediate public scrutiny? Or was it Kimmel for trying to pierce Hollywoods bubble with a dose of common folk?
When an ordinary person becomes the punchline to Hollywoods joke, there are consequences that Kimmel and his ilk arent equipped to handle.
For Gary Alan Coe, that meant the overnight revelation that he was newly out of prison and a prominent public appraisal of his criminal background. Ted Williams met a similar fate when the homeless man with the golden voice was plucked from obscurity via a YouTube video and paraded around the morning shows before having his criminal history and ongoing struggle with drug and alcohol addictions revealed to the world.
The punchlines might be murky, but the reality isnt: When it comes to injecting live drama into the Oscars, its better to deliver food, not tourists.
See the most-read stories in Entertainment this hour
libby.hill@latimes.com
@midwestspitfire
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Oscar Sunday for a designer is usually reserved for last-minute adjustments, fittings and final send-offs; for Georgina Chapman of Marchesa, it involved her own turn on the red carpet.
In addition to dressing Octavia Spencer and Olivia Culpo, Chapman wore her own Marchesa creation a fall gown that was only shown in New York two weeks before to accompany her husband Harvey Weinstein to Sundays Academy Awards ceremony on behalf of his film, Lion, which he executive produced.
Im so proud of Lion and Harveys work with the film, Chapman said. We named our daughter India, so it is a place that will always hold special meaning to us. After we got married I started a foundation that helps children in India and since then Ive become involved with the nonprofit organization Magic Bus. Through Magic Bus, Ive been fortunate enough to support the community of Mankhurd in eastern Mumbai and will be visiting on a trip later this year.
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Her work with Magic Bus and her affinity for the country made Lion hit particularly close to home and led her to walk the carpet at the Oscars, a rare moment for the designer (for those interested in the dress, it can be pre-ordered on Moda Operandi).
My work with Magic Bus allows me to give back to the families and communities that have contributed to the success of Marchesa, she said. We do a lot of our embroideries in India and Im constantly inspired by the rich culture and the colors; it has had a huge influence on many of our collections. This is a cause that Im truly passionate about as I have a deep connection with the country. It played an important role in my childhood as my mothers side of the family lived in India for several generations and my grandmother was born there. Ive been fascinated with the country since a young age and have traveled there many times since.
Lion, which was up for six awards, did not emerge victorious Sunday, but safe to say, the film isnt the last of Chapmans involvement with the films country of origin.
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Smashbox has a new editor in chief. Today, beauty influencer Vlada Haggerty, a Los Angeles-based makeup artist with 651,000 Instagram followers, will kick off her newly created role as the brands Lip Editor in Chief. Under her 18-month contract with Smashbox, 32-year-old Haggerty known for her liquid lip art will advise on everything lip, according to Beth Dinardo, brand president at Smashbox. This includes: deciding on colors for upcoming product, trend forecasting, how-to videos, creating lip looks, taking existing products and showing them in their best light and showing customers how to highlight a certain lip style.
Haggertys deal is just the latest in a slew of successful influencer partnerships Smashbox has introduced over the past year.
Weve had a really aggressive season of trying out new approaches, Dinardo said, noting the brand started working with Haggerty on a project basis about nine months ago. It all started with Lilly Singh Theres a real theme to who we collaborate with.
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For starters, the release last month of two highlighting palettes Smashbox cocreated with YouTuber Casey Holmes yielded more sales in its first day on Smashbox.com than Cyber Monday.
The $35 Casey Spotlight Palettes, available in two colorways that each contain three highlighters, went live exclusively on smashbox.com and both sold out within 12 hours. The brand declined to give figures, but an industry source said first-day sales from the collaboration with Holmes drove well over $100,000 in revenue to Smashboxs e-commerce site. Holmes collection has just been restocked on Smashbox.com and hits Sephora today, and expectations are high. Holmes, who has 1.3 million subscribers on her YouTube channel and 848,000 Instagram followers, teased the partnership through Instagram posts on Feb. 10 and Feb. 13 to generate buzz for the palettes launch on Feb. 22.
In January, a collaboration with actress Shay Mitchell who has 15.7 million followers on Instagram became the largest launch in Smashbox history. Dinardo said the collection of seven Cover Shot: Eye Palettes quadrupled the brands eyeshadow business in one month.
It was these two partnerships, as well as the liquid Bawse red lipstick Smashbox cocreated with Singh last summer, that gave the brand all the ammunition it needed to ink its first long-term deal with Haggerty.
For her first project as Lip Editor in Chief, Haggerty was instrumental in the launch of Smashboxs new Legendary Liquid Metal and Legendary Liquid Pigment lip gels, which hit retailers and smashbox.com March 8. Haggerty helped the team bring the two products to life from the original inspiration of car paint, and she narrowed down the final shades and worked on all creative surrounding the lip gels. Dinardo was vague about future plans with Haggerty, but a source said that product cocreation a la Holmes and Mitchell is already in the works.
We definitely took a very artistic approach with the campaign[but] there are a lot of very wearable colors, Haggerty said, admitting that when Smashbox first reached out to her, she had a slight fear that the lip color wouldnt be as pigmented as she normally likes.
At the first swatch I was like, I will support this completely. Im in. It combines what a makeup artist expects from product and what a regular woman expects from product. They are wearable but superpigmented, Haggerty said.
Starting in April, Haggerty will headline a Lip Art World Tour with Refinery29 where she will make stops at Ulta and Sephora doors in top-performing markets in New York, Chicago and San Francisco. Exact locations for global stops are still to be determined, but Haggerty will definitely make appearances in the U.K. and Canada.
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USC names retired aerospace executive Wanda Austin as acting president, announces Nikias departure By Harriet Ryan USC appointed a retired aerospace executive as interim president and laid out a detailed plan for selecting a permanent leader Tuesday, ending speculation about whether outgoing President C.L. Max Nikias might remain in the post. Nikias, embattled over his administrations handling of a campus gynecologist accused of sexually abusing patients, relinquished his duties after a meeting of USCs board. The trustees tapped one of their own, Wanda Austin, an alumna and former president of the Aerospace Corp., to temporarily run the university. The trustees also approved the formation of a search committee and the hiring of firm Isaacson, Miller to coordinate the selection of a successor. A second search company, Heidrick & Struggles, will also advise trustees. Read More Facebook
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Ex-student sues elite Brentwood School after teacher is charged with sexually abusing him By Richard Winton A former student sued the elite Brentwood School on Monday in the wake of a female teacher being charged with repeatedly having sex with the minor, alleging that other faculty members encouraged the unlawful behavior and failed to report it to authorities. The lawsuit accuses the private school, whose students include the children of many of Hollywoods elite and L.A.s powerful, of acting negligently and allowing Aimee Palmitessa to abuse and batter the teenager sexually. The suit alleges that the student was abused in summer 2017 after one of the schools counselors offered words of encouragement to the then-17-year-old, identified in the suit as only John Doe, to engage in an illegal relationship with the teacher. Read More Facebook
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Civil jury vindicates fired Montebello school executives in whistleblower case By Howard Blume The Montebello school district is in dire straits at risk of insolvency and under apparent criminal investigation. An outside audit in July found some teachers earning more than $200,000 a year, as well as improper raises, excess paid vacation time and inappropriate overtime, sick leave and car allowances. Fixing the district and pinpointing blame could take time. Read More Facebook
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L.A. schools fall short on safety measures, new report warns By Howard Blume After the mass shooting at Floridas Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in February, Los Angeles school officials reassured parents that much had been done to keep local schools safe. California had tougher gun laws, after all, and the school district paid close attention to students mental health. But a new report issued Monday by a panel convened to take a close look offers some cause for concern, flagging inconsistent campus safety measures, thinly spread mental health staff and inadequate coordination between the school district and other public agencies. With the stakes this high, we must strive to do better, said L.A. City Atty. Mike Feuer, who assembled the panel. Read More Facebook
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L.A. school district says more are graduating, but rate may not show it By Howard Blume The L.A. Unified School District has hopes of continuing its winning streak this year with another record graduation rate, but the official numbers may not show it. A senior district administrator warned the board Tuesday that graduation rates were likely to decline 2% to 3% across the state, even though L.A. Unified is likely doing better than ever in producing graduates, he said. The issue is that the state will now count high school students who transfer to adult school as dropouts, said Oscar Lafarga, who heads the districts office of data and accountability. Previously, schools treated these students as though they had simply enrolled in another high school, he said. Read More Facebook
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Betsy DeVos to California: Not so fast on that federal education plan By Joy Resmovits In April, Californias top education officials breathed a sigh of relief. After months of debate and back-and-forth with Betsy DeVos staff, they had finalized a plan to satisfy a major education law that aims to make sure all students get a decent education. The state focused on aligning its plan to fulfill the requirements of the federal Every Student Succeeds Act with Californias Local Control Funding Formula, which gives extra money to districts to help students who come from low-income families, are in the foster system or are English learners. But this week, DeVos team said not so fast. Jason Botel, the U.S. Department of Educations principal deputy assistant secretary, sent California education officials a letter asking for more information in such areas as measuring student progress, graduation rates and English learners. In an unsigned statement, the California Department of Education declared itself surprised and disappointed because officials thought after a meeting with federal officials in Washington that they were on the right track to get approval. Now the Every Student Succeeds Act plan will be up for discussion once again at the July meeting of the State Board of Education. The U.S. Department of Education has already approved most state plans. Every Student Succeeds is the Obama administrations 2015 replacement for the No Child Left Behind Act. Facebook
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L.A. school board sets a new goal: prepare every grad to be eligible to apply for Cal State or UC By Sonali Kohli Last month, Los Angeles school board president proposed a spate of highly ambitious mandates aimed at ensuring that every district graduate be eligible to apply to one of the states public four-year universities by 2023. By the time the L.A. Unified school board unanimously approved the resolution Tuesday, the original language had been watered down. The goal is no longer that in five years 100% of students meet the long list of benchmarks, which include not just college eligibility for graduates but first-grade reading proficiency and English fluency by sixth grade for all students who enter the district in kindergarten or first grade speaking another language. The original college-readiness goal, for example, called for 100% of all high school students to be eligible to apply to one of the states four-year universities. Now the goal seems to offer more wiggle room: Prepare all high school graduates to be eligible to apply to a California four-year university. Read More Facebook
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We have been hurt. More women say they were mistreated by USC gynecologist By Richard Winton USC student Anika Narayanan says she vividly recalls her first appointment with Dr. George Tyndall at the campus health center, alleging that he made several explicit comments during an examination she felt was inappropriate and invasive. When she came back for a second visit in 2016 after a nonconsensual sexual encounter, he allegedly chastised her, she said in a civil lawsuit and at a press conference Tuesday. He asked me if I had forgotten to use a condom again, said Narayanan, 21. At one point, she said, Tyndall asked if I did a lot of doggy style, she said. Read More Facebook
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L.A. Unified gives inspector general brief contract extension By Howard Blume The Los Angeles school board on Tuesday extended the contract of Ken Bramlett, its inspector general, by three months, though his job is far from secure and questions remain about the future direction of his watchdog office. Board members also unanimously promoted Vivian Ekchian, who had been the runner-up for the superintendents job, to deputy superintendent the districts No. 2 position. Both moves had elements of peacemaking between different factions on the board. Read More Facebook
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USCs handling of complaints about campus gynecologist is being investigated by federal government By Harriet Ryan The U.S. Department of Education announced Monday that it has launched an investigation into how the University of Southern California handled misconduct complaints against a campus gynecologist, the latest fallout in a scandal that has prompted the resignation of USCs president, two law enforcement investigations and dozens of lawsuits. In revealing the inquiry by the departments Office of Civil Rights, officials rebuked USC for what they alleged was improper withholding of information about Dr. George Tyndall during a previous federal investigation. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, who has been criticized for taking a less vigorous approach to examining sexual misconduct than predecessors, called for a systemic examination of USC and urged administrators to fully cooperate. Read More Facebook
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Judge to sentence woman and her boyfriend for the murder of an 8-year-old that led to L.A. child welfare reforms By Marisa Gerber A woman and her boyfriend are expected to be sentenced Thursday for the torture and murder of an 8-year-old boy whose killing in 2013 provoked public outrage, prompted sweeping reform of Los Angeles Countys child welfare system, and led to unprecedented criminal charges against social workers who handled the childs case. Pearl Sinthia Fernandez, 34, faces life in prison without the possibility of parole for her role in the death of her son, Gabriel. A jury decided last year that her boyfriend, Isauro Aguirre, 37, should be executed. When paramedics arrived at the boys Palmdale home in May 2013, Gabriel had slipped out of consciousness. He had a fractured skull, broken ribs, burned skin, missing teeth and BB pellets embedded in his groin. A paramedic would later testify that every inch of the boys small body had been abused. Read More Facebook
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L.A. Unifieds spending out of step with similar school systems, task force says By Howard Blume The Los Angeles school district is out of step with similar school systems, spending more on teachers pay and health benefits and less on activities that could enhance student learning, according to a new report by an outside task force. The L.A. Unified School District Advisory Task Force did not make specific recommendations, but instead posed a series of questions it said the district needs to answer to make sure its funding is aimed at providing a full opportunity for all students to succeed. What were trying to say is: Lets put the data on the table. Lets look at the truth. Lets be transparent and here are the numbers, said task force member Renata Simril. This is not to say that we should cut teachers salaries. Read More Facebook
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Top USC medical school official feared dean was doing drugs and alerted administration, he testifies By Paul Pringle A former vice dean of USCs Keck School of Medicine testified Tuesday that he feared the schools then-dean, Dr. Carmen A. Puliafito, could be doing drugs and expressed concerns about his general well-being to the universitys No. 2 administrator before Puliafito abruptly left his job in 2016. Dr. Henri Fords testimony at a hearing of the state Medical Board marks the first suggestion that any USC administrator had suspicions about Puliafitos possible drug use before he stepped down. A Times investigation in 2017 found Puliafito led a secret second life of using illegal drugs with a circle of young criminals and addicts. Puliafito testified about his behavior at the hearing Tuesday, saying he took drugs with one young woman on a weekly basis. Ford said that he decided to alert USC Provost Michael Quick after receiving reports in early 2016 that Puliafito was partying in hotels with people of questionable reputation, and that he came to worry about his mental stability. Read More Facebook
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Why L.A. Unified may face financial crisis even with a giant surplus this year By Jessica Calefati With more than half a billion dollars socked away for next school year, the Los Angeles Unified School District hardly seems just two years from financial ruin. Its a scenario that is especially tough to swallow if youre a low-wage worker seeking a raise or a teacher who wants smaller classes. But budget documents show that todays $548-million surplus cannot be sustained and that even basic services face steep, seemingly unavoidable cuts because of massive problems barreling the districts way. Theres a disconnect between the rosy short-term picture and what we know is coming, said board member Kelly Gonez. Read More Facebook
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We have failed: Top USC officials try to reassure students amid gynecologist scandal By Joy Resmovits Top administrators at USC are reaching out to students in the wake of misconduct allegations against the universitys longtime gynecologist, acknowledging failings and vowing reforms as they try to address growing outrage over the revelations. Several USC deans have sent out messages trying to reassure students and faculty that the university is committed to changing. We have failed, wrote Jack H. Knott, dean of USCs Sol Price School of Public Policy, in a May 24 letter. What happened is antithetical to everything we know is right. Read More Facebook
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Rick Caruso is named chair of USCs trustees, vows swift investigation of gynecologist scandal By Thomas Curwen The University of Southern Californias board of trustees has elected mall magnate Rick Caruso to be the new chair of the board, giving fresh leadership as the university navigates a widening scandal involving a longtime campus gynecologist. The move marks the latest effort by USC to address the case, which has sparked a criminal investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department and dozens of civil lawsuits. More than 400 people have contacted a hotline that the university established for patients to make reports about their experience with Dr. George Tyndall. In his first act as chairman, Caruso announced that the white-shoe L.A. law firm OMelveny & Myers would conduct a thorough and independent investigation into the gynecologists conduct and reporting failures at the clinic. He set an ambitious timeline for the review, pledging it would conclude before students return for the fall semester. Read More Facebook
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UC Berkeley students persistence helps win more liberal rules for in-state tuition By Teresa Watanabe Ifechukwu Okeke thought shed be a shoo-in for in-state tuition when she was admitted to UC Berkeley for fall 2016. She had moved to the United States from Nigeria in 2012 to go to Chaffey College in Rancho Cucamonga. By the time she got her acceptance to transfer to UC to study molecular and cell biology, she had lived in California four years. She had a California drivers license, bank account and rental records as proof. UC Berkeley, however, ruled she was a nonresident which meant she would have to pay nearly $27,000 more. Read More Facebook
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State medical board calls former County-USC doctor a sexual predator, suspends his license By Matt Hamilton A UCLA cardiologist has been temporarily stripped of his medical license after state regulators described him as a sexual predator who assaulted three female colleagues when he was working and training at L.A. County-USC Medical Center. Read More Facebook
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Global California 2030 aims to get more students learning more languages By Joy Resmovits Tom Torlakson (Andrew Seng / Associated Press) Outgoing state Supt. of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson on Wednesday announced a new statewide effort to encourage students to learn more languages. Called Global California 2030, its goal is to help more students become fluent in multiple tongues. Torlakson said that by 2030, he wants half of the states 6.2 million K-12 students to participate in classes or programs that lead to proficiency in two or more languages. By 2040, he wants three out of four students to be proficient enough to earn the State Seal of Biliteracy. Torlakson announced the initiative at Cahuenga Elementary School, which offers a dual-language immersion program in English and Korean. Californias public school students speak more than 60 languages at home, and 40% come to school with knowledge of a language other than English. Torlakson called his plan a call to action that invites parents, legislators, educators and community members to pool resources to expand language offerings in schools and get more bilingual teachers trained. He said the state already is working with Mexico and Spain to expand a teacher-exchange program. Fluency, the plan argues, can help students succeed economically and language acquisition can help their overall critical thinking. The initiative builds on Proposition 58, a ballot initiative passed in 2016 that undid an earlier requirement that English learners be taught in English-immersion classes unless their parents signed waivers. Torlakson recently visited Mexico and met with that countrys education secretary. They later signed a pact to increase collaboration, particularly in language education. This [Global California 2030] is great follow-through on Toms part and very important, Patricia Gandara, a UCLA education professor who hosted the Mexico meeting, said in an email. It hands over a plan to move forward in an area in which California has a unique advantage, but must seize the opportunity. Facebook
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Jury convicts man of murder in 2015 slaying of UCLA student found inside her burning apartment By Marisa Gerber A jury on Tuesday convicted a man in the 2015 slaying of a UCLA student found dead inside her burning apartment a gruesome stabbing case that led to a fierce rebuke of the police response amid concerns that the killing could have been prevented. The panel deliberated for about six hours before finding Alberto Medina, 24, guilty of murder, arson, burglary and animal cruelty. On Sept. 21, 2015, firefighters found the charred body of Andrea DelVesco inside her apartment after responding to the complex a block from campus. The 21-year-old student an Austin, Texas, native known to her sorority sisters as a fearless giver who befriended others with ease was stabbed at least 19 times, authorities said. Read More Facebook
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LAPD begins sweeping criminal probe of former USC gynecologist while urging patients to come forward By Adam Elmahrek The Los Angeles Police Department said Tuesday it is investigating 52 complaints of misconduct filed by former patients of USCs longtime campus gynecologist as detectives launch a sweeping criminal probe into the scandal that has rocked the university. LAPD detectives also made an appeal for other patients who feel mistreated to come forward, noting that thousands of students were examined by Dr. George Tyndall during his nearly 30-year career at USC. More than 410 people have contacted a university hotline about the physician since The Times revealed the allegations this month. Tyndalls behavior and practices appear to go beyond the norms of the medical profession and gynecological examinations, said Asst. Chief Beatrice Girmala. We sincerely realize that victims may have difficulty recounting such details to investigators. We are empathetic and ready to listen. Read More Facebook
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At L.A.'s only school for the deaf, parents want leaders who speak the same language By Anna M. Phillips Ever since her son was 6 months old, Juliet Hidalgo has been bringing him to the Marlton School, a low-slung building in Baldwin Hills that for generations has been a second home for deaf and hard-of-hearing students in Los Angeles. Marlton staff taught Hidalgos brother and sister, both of whom are deaf. The school was where her deaf son learned to make the signs for milk and food. Hidalgo had planned to enroll her daughter, taking advantage of a popular program that allows hearing children to learn American Sign Language alongside their deaf siblings. But after more than a decade of involvement, she and other family members are considering withdrawing their children. They are not alone. Read More Facebook
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Fueled by unlimited donations, independent groups play their biggest role yet in a California primary for governor By Ryan Menezes An unprecedented amount of money from wealthy donors, unions and corporations is flowing into the California governors race, giving independent groups unrestricted by contribution limits a greater say in picking the states chief executive than ever before. The groups have already spent more than $26 million through Thursday, the most ever spent by noncandidate committees in a gubernatorial primary, according to a Times analysis of campaign finance reports. California elections have always been expensive, and the future is even more expensive, said Jack Pitney, a political science professor at Claremont McKenna College and a former state Republican leader. The stakes are very real. Read More Facebook
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2 hurt in Indiana middle school shooting; suspect in custody, authorities say By Associated Press Authorities say two victims in a shooting at a suburban Indianapolis school are being taken to a hospital and the lone suspect is in custody. Bryant Orem, a spokesman for the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office, said in a news release that the victims in Friday mornings attack at Noblesville West Middle School are being taken to Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis and their families have been notified. He says no other information is available about the victims. Orem said the suspect is believed to have acted alone and was taken into custody. No additional information about the suspect was made public. Read More Facebook
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For new L.A. schools chief Austin Beutner, some key unions are giving no honeymoon period By Howard Blume In the less than two weeks since Austin Beutner took charge of Los Angeles schools, unions representing teachers and administrators have staged a job action and a protest. Theyve made it clear that they will not give the new superintendent the traditional honeymoon period, and they are bashing him for his wealth and lack of experience running either a school or a school district. Beutner is a billionaire investment banker with zero qualifications, local teachers union President Alex Caputo-Pearl told members in a phone alert urging them to participate in a Thursday afternoon rally in Grand Park. The board is saying that billionaires who made their money blowing institutions up and making money off it know best not the education professionals who have dedicated our careers to working with students. Read More Facebook
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Pressure grows on Board of Trustees amid USC gynecologist scandal By Paul Pringle USCs large and powerful Board of Trustees is coming under growing pressure to provide a stronger hand as the university faces a crisis over misconduct allegations against the campus longtime gynecologist that has prompted calls for President C.L. Max Nikias to step down. Allegations that Dr. George Tyndall mistreated students during his nearly 30 years at USC have roiled the campus, with about 300 people coming forward to make reports to the university and the Los Angeles Police Department launching a criminal investigation. USC is already beginning to face what is expected to be costly litigation by women who say they were victimized by the physician. So far, the trustees to whom Nikias reports have expressed sympathy for the women who have come forward and launched an independent investigation while also publicly backing the president. Read More Facebook
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UC regents approve leaner budget for Janet Napolitano By Teresa Watanabe University of California regents on Thursday unanimously approved a leaner, more transparent budget for President Janet Napolitano, moving to address political criticism over the systems central office operations. The $876.4-million budget for 2018-19 reflects spending cuts of 2%, including reductions in staffing, travel and such systemwide programs as public service law fellowships, carbon neutrality and food security. Napolitano shifted $30 million to campuses for housing needs and $10 million to UC Riverside to support its five-year-old medical school. She also permanently redirected $8.5 million annually to help enroll more California students, as required by the state. Read More Facebook
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USCs Academic Senate calls on university president to resign after a series of scandals By Matt Hamilton The body that represents USCs faculty called on President C.L. Max Nikias to resign Wednesday in the wake of relevations that the universitys longtime gynecologist faced years of accusations of misconduct by students and colleagues at the campus health clinic. The Academic Senate took the vote late Wednesday afternoon after a fiery town hall meeting attended by more than 100 faculty members, many of whom voiced outrage over Nikias and the Board of Trustees leadership. The vote came a day after the trustees executive committee stood firmly behind Nikias, saying it has full confidence in his leadership, ethics and values. At the town hall meeting, Senate President Paul Rosenbloom said he did not think Nikias or Provost Michael Quick committed wrongdoing but that the university president deserved criticism for a lack of transparency. Read More Facebook
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Californias public universities on the way to getting a big longed-for boost in funding By Teresa Watanabe The University of California and California State University systems are poised to get major funding boosts that will help them enroll thousands of additional state students and eliminate the need for tuition increases in the coming school year. A key Assembly budget panel on Wednesday approved $117.5 million in new funds for the UC. A Senate panel approved a similar sum last week. The same committees recently approved even more funding for the Cal State system. Read More Facebook
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UC regents to scrutinize Janet Napolitanos office budget in a step toward stronger oversight By Teresa Watanabe University of California regents this week plan to scrutinize the budget of President Janet Napolitano, whose office came under political fire last year for questionable spending and murky accounting. Regents will vote on the proposed $876.4-million budget for 2018-19 during their two-day meeting, which starts Wednesday, at UC San Francisco. They also will discuss state funding, financial aid, online education and transfer student policies. Board Chairman George Kieffer said regents are stepping up to exert stronger oversight of the presidents office after a blistering state audit last year found financial problems including an unreported $175 million budget reserve. Read More Facebook
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State legislative panels approve major funding boost for Cal State By Teresa Watanabe After months of intensive lobbying, Cal State University has convinced two key legislative panels to approve funding to enroll nearly 11,000 more students, hire more faculty and expand housing aid to those without shelter this fall. An Assembly budget panel on Tuesday approved $215.7 million more for Cal State, adding to Gov. Jerry Browns proposed $92.1 million general fund increase. A Senate budget panel approved a similar increase last week. The extra funding which went beyond Cal States own request to the Legislature of $171 million is still subject to final budget negotiations with Brown. But the actions by the Senate and Assembly panels amount to a demand from Democrats that the governor hike higher education spending. Cal State University is the workhorse undergraduate university serving hundreds of thousands of Californians, said Assemblyman Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), who heads the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance. We need more graduates for the California workforce and higher education is the ticket to the middle class. Cal State Chancellor Timothy P. White hailed the actions, but said it was too soon to celebrate. The CSU has a singular focus on helping students earn high-quality degrees sooner, and the entire university community has rallied to reinforce that message to our states lawmakers, he said in a statement. The actions taken thus far by the Assembly and Senate are promising and show that our message is being received, but there is still work to be done. Funding for the University of California was not taken up Tuesday as originally scheduled. McCarty would not comment on sticking points but said he was confident that a resolution would be reached this week. Were looking to provide resources above whats in the governors budget, but negotiations are ongoing, he said in an interview. State per-student funding is not what it once was, leaving both Cal State and the UC in a tough financial squeeze. Both systems raised tuition last year after a six-year freeze on higher costs. For this year, Cal State had asked for funding to enroll an additional 3,621 students, but both the Senate and Assembly panels approved three times that amount. Cal State, the largest public university system in the nation, turned away 32,000 eligible students last year because its campuses werent able to accommodate them. The panels asked that at least $50 million of the extra funding be used to hire more tenure-track faculty to help boost graduation rates. The Assembly panel also approved one-time funding of $5 million to ease hunger on campuses and $14 million for rapid rehousing pilot projects at three campuses, offering needy students rental support and short-term case management. Other items approved include $5 million to support the CSU Long Beach Shark Labs research on sharks and beach safety and $2 million for equal employment opportunity practices. This post has been updated to include comments from Assemblyman Kevin McCarty and Cal State Chancellor Timothy P. White. Facebook
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Faculty members call for USC president to step down: He has lost the moral authority to lead By Matt Hamilton Two hundred USC professors on Tuesday demanded the resignation of university President C. L. Max Nikias, saying he had lost the moral authority to lead in the wake of revelations that a campus gynecologist was kept on staff for decades despite repeated complaints of misconduct. Read More Facebook
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Gun battle, negotiations lasted 15 minutes before Texas school shooter was apprehended, sheriff says By Molly Hennessy-Fiske Minutes after a school shooter opened fire in an art class last week, killing 10 people and wounding 13, including a local police officer, fellow officers returned fire in a protracted gun battle before isolating the suspect, the local sheriff said Monday. Galveston County Sheriff Henry Trochesset praised first responders as well as Santa Fe Police Officer John Barnes, who was working as a resource officer at the school the day of the shooting. Their actions, he said, prevented the attack from spreading to other classrooms and potentially claiming additional victims. As officials continue to probe last Fridays shooting at Santa Fe High School, students are worried about returning to the scene of the attack when classes resume next week. Read More Facebook
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6 women sue USC, alleging they were victimized by campus gynecologist By Richard Winton Six women filed civil lawsuits Monday alleging that a longtime gynecologist at the University of Southern California sexually victimized them under the pretext of medical care and that USC failed to address complaints from clinic staff about the doctors behavior. One woman alleged Dr. George Tyndall forced his entire ungloved hand into her vagina during an appointment in 2003 while making vulgar remarks about her genitalia, according to one of the lawsuits. Another woman alleged that Tyndall groped her breasts in a 2008 visit and that later he falsely told her she likely had AIDS. A third woman accused the doctor of grazing his ungloved fingers over her nude body and leering at her during a purported skin exam, the lawsuit states. The wave of litigation comes as USC continues to grapple with the scandal, which legal experts said could prove costly to the university as scores of former patients come forward about their experiences with the gynecologist. Read More Facebook
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Fatalities reported in Texas high school shooting; suspect arrested, officials say By Associated Press Houston-area media citing unnamed law enforcement officials are reporting that there are fatalities following a shooting at a local high school Friday morning. Television station KHOU and the Houston Chronicle are citing unnamed federal, county and police officials following the shooting at Santa Fe High School, which went on lockdown around 8 a.m. The Associated Press has not been able to confirm the reports. The school district has confirmed an unspecified number of injuries but said it wouldnt immediately release further details. Assistant Principal Cris Richardson said a suspect has been arrested and secured. Read More Facebook
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This student followed the new L.A. schools chief on his first-day tour Melissa Barales-Lopez, a senior at Garfield High School followed Supt. Austin Beutner on his first day on the job, as he toured a variety of programs around the Los Angeles Unified School District. Heres what she took from the experience. LAUSD students and staff alike are looking for a personal champion, someone who will address and improve the difficulties afflicting their education. What LAUSD students need is someone whos willing to listen and learn, someone who can understand the current issues affecting their schools and act to efficiently amend them, someone who can unlock the full potential of LAUSD students and enable them to reach their goals. During the entirety of his first day, superintendent Austin Beutner did indeed demonstrate a willingness to learn. Posing questions to teachers and students, Beutner engaged with the student communities he encountered to gain a better comprehension of the minutiae and nuances that distinguish each school inside an overwhelmingly large district. From inquiries about Grand View Boulevard Elementary Schools dual language program to questions regarding the services of LAUSDs after-school program, Beyond the Bell, Beutner revealed he has a lot to learn about the system. But, Beutner also showcased a willingness to tackle challenges head-on on his first day. Read More Facebook
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USC let a gynecologist continue treating students despite years of misconduct allegations By Matt Hamilton For nearly 30 years, the University of Southern Californias student health clinic had one full-time gynecologist: Dr. George Tyndall. Tall and garrulous with distinctive jet black hair, he treated tens of thousands of female students, many of them teenagers seeing a gynecologist for the first time. Few who lay down on Tyndalls exam table at the Engemann Student Health Center knew that he had been accused repeatedly of misconduct toward young patients. The complaints began in the 1990s, when co-workers alleged he was improperly photographing students genitals. In the years that followed, patients and nursing staff accused him again and again of creepy behavior, including touching women inappropriately during pelvic exams and making sexually suggestive remarks about their bodies. Read More Facebook
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Cal State trustees to discuss Browns latest budget proposal, which they say still falls $171 million short By Joy Resmovits Just how much money does California State University need to serve its students? In recent years, this question has been front and center for the nations largest public university system. Cal States leaders say that to keep their campuses quality from slipping, they need much more money than the state is giving them. This year, theyre also at odds with Gov. Jerry Brown on the question of whether any extra money should come in one-time bursts or be ongoing. Read More Facebook
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On his first day as L.A. schools chief, Beutner plans a day of visits across the district By Howard Blume L.A. Unifieds new superintendent, Austin Beutner, will kick off his first day of work on Tuesday with a choreographed tour of the nations second-largest school district, from the San Fernando Valley to Carson. His day is scheduled to begin at 5:15 a.m. at a school bus depot and end more than 12 hours later at a parent meeting at Garfield High School. Along the way, Beutner is expected to be joined by school district administrators, L.A. Unified board members and the vice president of the union that represents school bus drivers. Though he will be covering a lot of ground, Beutners tour has him skipping Tuesdays school board meeting, when board members are expected to discuss labor negotiations in closed session. Read More Facebook
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Cal State trustees to discuss Browns latest budget proposal, which they say still falls $171 million short By Joy Resmovits Just how much money does California State University need to serve its students? In recent years, this question has been front and center for the nations largest public university system. Cal States leaders say that to keep their campuses quality from slipping, they need much more money than the state is giving them. This year, theyre also at odds with Gov. Jerry Brown on the question of whether any extra money should come in one-time bursts or be ongoing. Read More Facebook
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Why a handful of rich charter school supporters are spending millions to elect Antonio Villaraigosa as governor By Ryan Menezes California voters have seen a barrage of sunny television ads in recent weeks touting former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosas record on finances, crime and education, aired by Families & Teachers for Antonio Villaraigosa for Governor 2018. But the group is, in fact, largely funded by a handful of wealthy charter-school supporters. Together they have spent more than $13 million in less than a month to boost Villaraigosas chances in the June 5 primary at a time when his fundraising and poll numbers are lagging. Reed Hastings, the founder of Netflix, jump-started the group with a $7-million check, by far the largest donation to support any candidate in the election. Their efforts are part of a broader proxy war among Democrats between teachers unions longtime stalwarts of the party and those who argue that the groups have failed low-income and minority schoolchildren. Read More Facebook
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Talking schools with L.A. Unifieds new superintendent By Anna M. Phillips Austin Beutner, who officially starts Tuesday as the new superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, is taking on a famously difficult job at a particularly difficult time. The school board is divided and did not back him unanimously. The nations second-largest school district has deep-seated problems, including declining enrollment, lagging academic achievement and rising pension and healthcare costs that eat away at its budget. The 58-year-old former investment banker and former L.A. Times publisher has years of experience in the financial world but none as an educator. Earlier this week, he sat down with the Times education team to discuss the challenges facing the district, which has about 60,000 employees and 500,000 students in traditional public schools. He did not talk about his plans saying repeatedly, stay tuned but he spoke in broad terms about his mindset in approaching the tough decisions ahead. Read More Facebook
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Suspect detained, authorities search campus after reports of armed man at Palmdale high school By James Queally One person has been detained after a report of an armed man at a Palmdale high school sparked a massive law enforcement response Friday morning. The suspect was spotted at 7:05 a.m. on the campus of Highland High School in Palmdale, according to Sheriffs Department spokeswoman Nicole Nishida. The person was detained in a nearby parking lot, according to Nishida, who did not know whether that person was an adult or juvenile. Deputies at the scene are clearing the school methodically, and students will be transported home via school buses once the campus is deemed safe, Nishida said. Read More Facebook
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The education of Bertha Perez: How a UC Merced custodians disenchantment led to a political awakening By Robin Abcarian Its the third day of a three-day strike, and UC Merced custodian Bertha Perez is taking a break from a picket line at the universitys unremarkable entrance, an intersection with stop lights. Photos from other UC campuses this week have shown big crowds of striking service workers members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees marching and chanting pro-labor slogans as they try to force the University of California back to the negotiating table. But here, at UC Merced, whose handful of big buildings rise from a flat expanse of farmland, the picket line is tiny, maybe two dozen workers and a few students. Its not a big-city-style show of force. Then again, a union sympathizer is banging relentlessly on a snare drum, so its noisier than youd expect. Read More Facebook
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Ref Rodriguez resigns from teacher credentialing commission By Howard Blume Ref Rodriguez appears during a court appearance. (Al Seib/Los Angeles Times) Los Angeles school board member Ref Rodriguez has resigned from the states Commission on Teacher Credentialing, which oversees the integrity and quality of Californias teachers. Rodriguez faces felony and misdemeanor charges for political money laundering. Separately, his former employer, a charter school organization, has accused him of improperly authorizing checks to a nonprofit under his control. Rodriguez has denied wrongdoing. Rodriguezs resignation from the state body was effective May 4, days after he cast a crucial vote as part of a narrow majority that voted to authorize contract negotiations with Austin Beutner to become superintendent of the L.A. Unified School District. Beutners first official day on the job is Tuesday. Rodriguez remains in his $125,000-a-year position on the Los Angeles Board of Education. The mission of the state body is to ensure integrity, relevance, and high quality in the preparation, certification, and discipline of Californias teachers. Critics had questioned Rodriguezs continued service on the commission, given that teachers can be suspended from work if they face criminal charges. They also can lose their jobs for lapses in personal behavior, such as excessive drinking, with the potential to affect their performance. Police in Pasadena arrested Rodriguez on a Friday afternoon in March for public drunkenness. He was not charged in the incident and has apologized. The state commission reviews teacher discipline cases and can take action to remove a teachers credential to work in a California classroom. The commission has 15 members. Rodriguezs departure was disclosed in a one-sentence announcement on the agencys website. Facebook
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School board members request for restraining order against blogger is rejected By Priscella Vega An Orange County Superior Court judge on Wednesday denied a school board members petition for a permanent restraining order against a Huntington Beach blogger. Attorney Jeffrey W. Shields filed the petition on behalf of Ocean View School District trustee Gina Clayton-Tarvin, 46, who alleged in court documents that Charles Keeler Johnson, 56, has threatened her on social media and at school board meetings, causing her to fear for my own safety and for that of my immediate family members. Johnson, who goes by Chuck and publishes HBSledgehammer.com, said the trustee tried to stifle his freedom of speech. He also contended that Clayton-Tarvin took his blog posts and Facebook comments too seriously and out of context, saying anyone who is afraid of metaphors has serious issues. Read More Facebook
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Deal with workers averts one-day strike that could have shut down L.A. schools By Howard Blume Los Angeles school district and union officials announced a contract agreement Tuesday night that averted a one-day strike planned for next week. The pact, which runs through June 2020, removes one labor problem from the desk of incoming Supt. Austin Beutner whose first day on the job would have coincided with the strike. Plenty of other challenges remain. Read More Facebook
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UC labor strike expands with show of support from more unions By Teresa Watanabe Fong Chuu is a registered nurse who has assisted with countless liver transplants, kidney surgeries and gastric bypasses during 34 years at UCLA. Working with her are scrub technicians who sterilize equipment, hand medical instruments to the surgeon and dress patient wounds. They are a team, Chuu says, which is why she walked off her job Tuesday in support of those technicians and other members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 3299. The 25,000 member AFSCME local, the University of Californias largest employee union, launched a three-day strike Monday. Read More Facebook
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We are humans too: Voices of UCLAs striking custodians, hospital aides and imaging technicians By Joy Resmovits Demonstrators parade in front of Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) This week, thousands of UC employees are staging a three-day strike for better pay and working conditions. On Monday, more than 20,000 custodians, cooks, lab technicians, nurse aides and other members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 3299 walked off their jobs. By Tuesday, two more unions joined in sympathy strikes. The union and UC reached a bargaining impasse last year. The university has said it wont meet the workers demands. The strikers said they wanted better pay, more equity in the allocation of work, stable healthcare premiums and an end to the universitys use of contract workers. These are their stories. Read More Facebook
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Massive UC workers strike disrupts dining, classes and medical services By Joy Resmovits A massive labor strike across the University of California on Monday forced medical centers to reschedule more than 12,000 surgeries, cancer treatments and appointments, and campuses to cancel some classes and limit dining services. More than 20,000 members of UCs largest employee union, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 3299, walked off their jobs on the first day of a three-day strike. They include custodians, gardeners, cooks, truck drivers, lab technicians and nurse aides. Two altercations involving protesters and people driving near the rallies were reported at UCLA and UC Santa Cruz. At UCLA, police took a man into custody Monday after he drove his vehicle into a crowd, hitting three staff members. They were treated for minor injuries at the scene and released, said Lt. Kevin Kilgore of the UCLA Police Department. Read More Facebook
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Sen. Kamala Harris to skip UC Berkeley commencement in support of striking workers By Teresa Watanabe California Sen. Kamala Harris has canceled plans to deliver UC Berkeleys commencement address this weekend in support of UC workers who are on strike over wages and health benefits. Due to the ongoing labor dispute, Sen. Harris regretfully cannot attend and speak at this years commencement ceremony at UC Berkeley, said a statement from Harris office issued Monday. She wishes the graduates and their families a joyous commencement weekend and success for the future. They are bright young leaders and our country is counting on them. UCs largest employee union, the 25,000-member American Federation of County, State and Municipal Employees Local 3299, launched a three-day strike Monday and had earlier called for a speakers boycott. The union and university reached a bargaining impasse last year and subsequent mediation efforts have failed to produce an agreement. The union is asking for a multiyear contract with a 6% annual pay increase while the university is offering 3% annual increases over four years. UC Berkeley Chancellor Carol Christ will deliver the keynote address instead, the university announced. About 5,800 students are expected to participate in the ceremony Saturday. Facebook
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School mural depicting Trumps bloody, severed head sparks controversy By Gary Warth A Chula Vista school mural that depicts the bloody, severed head of President Trump on a spear sparked a controversy that prompted officials to cover it and issue a response distancing themselves from the work. The statement also said the artist will alter the painting. We understand that there was a mural painted at the event this past weekend that does not align with our schools philosophy of non-violence, read the statement from MAAC Community Charter School director Tommy Ramirez. We have been in communication with the artist who has agreed to modify the artwork to better align with the schools philosophy. Read More Facebook
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New blackface incident at Cal Poly prompts calls for state investigation By Kim Christensen Cal Poly San Luis Obispo officials have asked the state attorney generals office to investigate after a new photo of a white student in blackface surfaced on a fraternity groups private Snapchat. I am outraged, Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong said in a video address Friday to the campus. These vile and absolutely unacceptable acts cannot continue. We must not allow these acts to define us as an institution. Armstrong said the latest photo was intended to imitate an incident last month in which a white member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity was photographed at a party wearing blackface. Read More Facebook
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More than 50,000 UC workers set to strike this week but campuses will remain open By Teresa Watanabe More than 50,000 workers across the University of California are set to strike this week, causing potential disruptions to surgery schedules, food preparation and campus maintenance. The systems 10 campuses and five medical centers are to remain open, with classes scheduled as planned. UCs largest employee union, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 3299, plans to begin a three-day strike Monday involving 25,000 workers, including custodians, gardeners, cooks, truck drivers, lab technicians and nurse aides. Read More Facebook
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New L.A. schools chief Beutner pledges to listen, learn and take action By Howard Blume New Los Angeles schools Supt. Austin Beutner proved Wednesday that hes a quick learner even without an education background. Like countless public officials before him, he appeared at an important event his first speech and news conference with a photogenic background of students. His message that he would put those students first seemed heartfelt if hardly original. Nor was it a huge surprise that he pledged to push cooperatively but unflinchingly to improve the districts academic performance and stabilize its finances. As an introduction, Beutner, a former investment banker who made a fortune on Wall Street, offered little flash, but that was partly the point. Read More Facebook
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In a school lockdown, one student takes stock of the stressful scene At the beginning of lunch one day late last month, Duarte High School, Northview Middle School, and California School of the Arts-San Gabriel Valley were advised by the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department to go into lockdown mode due to police activity in the immediate area. Phalaen Chang, a junior at the California School of the Arts, wrote a series of notes on her iPhone while she sat in a room with her classmates. By the time the lockdown ended an hour later, she wrote, she knew which of her friends would hold open the door for others, be the ones calming others down, be the ones barricading the doors. She knew that all of them have the potential to be such strong people. Read More Facebook
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Tale as old as time: L.A. Unified superintendent pick follows a historical pattern of outside-the-box choices By Joy Resmovits L.A. Unified has long gone back and forth between picking insiders and outsiders to run the nations second largest school district. The choice of Austin Beutner, announced Tuesday, places the district squarely back in the outsider camp months after a consummate insider, Supt. Michelle King, announced that she had cancer and would not return to the job. Check out this timeline of former L.A. superintendents to see how the school board members have changed their minds, sometimes favoring leaders who come from the world of education and sometimes executives from elsewhere, recruited to shock the system into change. At one point, the district hired someone from the military retired Navy Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, who served as superintendent from 2006-2008. In hiring Brewer, board members had opted for a non-educator largely because they sought a fresh thinker, unwedded to the bureaucracy, unafraid to make bold, even unorthodox moves, reads a 2008 Times story. Facebook
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Austin Beutner named superintendent of Los Angeles schools By Howard Blume Austin Beutner, a philanthropist and former investment banker, on Tuesday was named superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, the nations second-largest school system. His selection was the biggest move yet by a Los Angeles school board majority elected with major support from charter school advocates. The decision came after lengthy public testimony, most of it in support of the other remaining finalist, interim Supt. Vivian Ekchian, who is well known within the school system. Beutner, 58, has no background leading a school or school district. Less than 2 years ago, a school board with a very different balance of power named Michelle King, a former teacher who rose through the district throughout her career, to L.A. Unifieds top job. Read More Facebook
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Hearing delay gives both sides more time in Ref Rodriguezs potential trial By Howard Blume Ref Rodriguez and his attorneys will have more time to prepare their defense against charges of political money laundering, a judge ruled Monday. The preliminary hearing in the case had been scheduled to begin May 9, but that date will now be pushed back to July 23 per the ruling from L.A. Superior Court Judge Deborah S. Brazil. Rodriguez, 46, faces three felony charges of conspiracy, perjury and procuring and offering a false or forged instrument, as well as 25 misdemeanor counts related to the alleged campaign money laundering. Read More Facebook
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L.A. school board poised to name Beutner as superintendent By Howard Blume The Los Angeles Board of Education is poised to select philanthropist and former investment banker Austin Beutner to be the next superintendent of the nations second-largest school system. Barring a last-minute development, the only mystery is whether Beutner emerges with four or five votes from the boards seven members. Terms of his contract already have been under discussion, according to sources close to the process who requested anonymity because they are not authorized to speak. The selection of Beutner, 58, who has no experience managing a school or a school district, would be a signal that the board majority that took control nearly a year ago wants to rely on business management skills instead of insider educational expertise. Read More Facebook
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Teacher walkouts in Arizona and Colorado continue national debate on money for schools By Michael Livingston Following the lead of teachers who walked off the job in other states in recent weeks, thousands of teachers and their supporters took to the streets in Arizona and Colorado for the second day in a row to demand better pay and more funding for education. Read More Facebook
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Three decades before the #MeToo movement, UC San Diego led the way against sexual assault By Teresa Watanabe When Nancy Wahlig first started her fight against sexual assault, one company was marketing a capsule for women to stash in their bras and then smash to release a vile odor. Because of the very nature of society, the only person who can prevent rape is the woman herself, read a 1981 advertisement for the Repulse rape deterrent. Ideas about how to prevent sexual violence have come a long way since then, and Wahlig has helped lead that evolution on college campuses. In 1988, she started UC San Diegos Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC), the first stand-alone program at the University of California. Today, she remains the systems most senior specialist. Read More Facebook
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Andres Alonso withdraws from consideration for L.A. schools job By Howard Blume Andres Alonso, believed to be one of three remaining finalists to lead the Los Angeles school system, has withdrawn from consideration. The remaining known candidates in the confidential search are former investment banker Austin Beutner and interim Supt. Vivian Ekchian. Alonso, 60, announced his decision on Twitter on Thursday night, saying he had notified the L.A. Unified School District on Monday. The exit of Alonso, the former Baltimore schools chief, seems to solidify the front-runner status of Beutner, who also was a former L.A. Times publisher and a Los Angeles deputy mayor. He held each of those positions for about a year. Read More Facebook
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Heres why the apparent increase in autism spectrum disorders may be good for U.S. children By Karen Kaplan The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among American children continues to rise, new government data suggest. And that may be a good thing. Among 11 sites across the U.S. where records of 8-year-olds are scrutinized in detail, 1 in 59 kids was deemed to have ASD in 2014. Thats up from 1 in 68 in 2012. Normally, health officials would prefer to see less of a disease, not more of it. But in this case, the higher number is probably a sign that more children of color who are on the autism spectrum are being recognized as such and getting services to help them, according to a report published Thursday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read More Facebook
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UC shelves tuition increase for now, in hopes of getting more state funding By Teresa Watanabe University of California regents will not vote on a tuition increase next month, shelving the plan for now in hopes that state lawmakers will come through with more funding. Raising tuition is always a last resort and one we take very seriously, UC President Janet Napolitano said Thursday in a statement. We will continue to advocate with our students who are doing a tremendous job of educating legislators about the necessity of adequately funding the university to ensure UC remains a world-class institution and engine of economic growth for our state. Last week, Cal State Chancellor Timothy P. White said the 23-campus system no longer would consider a plan to raise tuition for the 2018-19 academic year. But unlike Cal State, UC officials have not taken a tuition increase off the table entirely. Read More Facebook
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A chemical spill, unchecked eyewash stations, poor training: Audit details Cal States lax lab safety By Joy Resmovits In May 2016, two bottles tumbled off a poorly supported shelf and broke, leading to a chemical spill in a Sacramento State University lab. The liquid got onto one students legs and soaked anothers feet. Five employees cleaned up the mess, even though no one knew for sure what it was and whether it was dangerous. They called fellow employee Kim Harrington, their union representative, to let her know what happened. Read More Facebook
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After blackface incident, minority students at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo say they dont feel welcome By Hailey Branson-Potts Aaliyah Ramos was walking through the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo campus last year when a prospective student approached her. Ramos was the only black person, the young woman said, that she and her mother had seen that day. They asked about the quality of education and the diversity of the student body. Ramos, a mechanical engineering student, didnt want to sugarcoat the truth: Cal Poly long has been predominantly white. But she told the young woman who also was black that she didnt want to discourage her from applying, because that wouldnt help with diversity at a school where only 0.7% of students are African American the lowest percentage of any university in the California State system. Read More Facebook
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El Camino Real Charter High School in Woodland Hills wins the 2018 U.S. Academic Decathlon By Carlos Lozano El Camino Real Charter High School in Woodland Hills has won the 2018 U.S. Academic Decathlon, officials said. The winner was announced early Saturday at a ceremony in Frisco, Texas. More than 600 students from the U.S., Canada, China and the United Kingdom gathered there over the last three days to compete in the 37th annual U.S. Academic Decathlon. Congratulations to El Camino Real Charter High School for another impressive victory, said Vivian Ekchian, interim superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District. Your academic stamina and competitive spirit to win is remarkable. The entire L.A. Unified family is so proud of you. Read More Facebook
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Anticipation mounts as L.A. school board meets over superintendent selection By Howard Blume The Los Angeles Board of Education is reconvening in closed session Friday at noon as anticipation mounts about the choice of the next leader of the nations second-largest school system. The presumed front-runner is former investment banker and philanthropist Austin Beutner, but interim Supt. Vivian Ekchian and former Baltimore Supt. Andres Alonso also are in the running. Most district insiders appear to be rooting for Ekchian, who has spent her entire career in education within the school system. After her 10 years as a teacher, her roles have included head of human resources, chief labor negotiator and regional administrator for campuses in the west San Fernando Valley. Shes managed the district since September, when then-Supt. Michelle King went on medical leave and chose Ekchian to fill in for her. King, who is battling cancer, never returned and announced her retirement in January. Numerous influential civic leaders have urged and pressured the board to select Beutner. Also lending their weight have been advocates for charter schools, which are independently operated, growing in number and competing for students with district-operated campuses. Four of the seven board members enough to control the outcome were elected with major financial support from charter supporters. Beutner has two ongoing connections with the L.A. Unified School District. The first is his leadership of an outside task force that is making recommendations on how to improve the school system. The second is his charity, Vision to Learn, which supplies glasses to low-income students. The charity and the school system are in a dispute at the moment over who is responsible for delays in providing services to students as part of a $6 million contract, half of which is paid for by L.A. Unified. Unlike Ekchian and Buetner, Alonso, who currently teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, has no deep-seated local constituency, but the prospect of his selection has generated some excitement. While in Baltimore, Alonso was recognized for pushing for progress at low-performing schools, and for being willing to take strong action. While in Baltimore, he also weathered a test-score cheating scandal and occasionally rocky relations with the teachers union. But by the time he resigned, after six years, he and union leaders seemed to be working together without rancor. Leaders of some community groups have split from the pro-Beutner camp. They worry that Beutners approach to confronting the districts financial problems could shut out their voices or involve severe economic cutbacks that would undermine programs that are helping students. Some prefer Ekchian; some Alonso. Theyve been reluctant to speak out publicly because theyll have to work with whoever is selected, but they have tried to get the ear of board members. On Friday morning, one leader of a community group decided to come out in favor of Alonso. L.A. Unified has the opportunity to bring in an instructional leader of color with a history of success, said Alberto Retana, president and chief executive of Community Coalition, which works on behalf of low-income students and families in South Los Angeles. If we have a shot at that, we should go for it because its in the best interests of our kids and of our community. Retana said his statement was not meant to criticize Beutner or Ekchian but to alert board members that there also is community support for Alonso. Facebook
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Cal State leader shelves proposed tuition hike: Its the right thing to do, but its not without risk By Joy Resmovits Cal State, the nations largest public university system, will no longer consider a plan to raise tuition for the 2018-19 academic year, Chancellor Timothy P. White announced Friday. The decision is a bet that Sacramento will come through in the end. If Cal State loses that bet, it could mean cuts to campus programs. White said in an interview that Californias economy is strong enough that families should not be shouldering the burden of higher college costs. Read More Facebook
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L.A. students to participate in national walkout activities on Friday By Joy Resmovits Students are taking to the streets again Friday to protest gun violence on the 19th anniversary of the Columbine school shooting. Starting at 10 a.m., students at many schools will spend 13 seconds honoring the 13 people 12 students and one teacher killed on that day in Littleton, Colo. After that, theyll participate in a host of different activities. Within L.A. Unified, one school is having an open-mic event for students to talk about school violence, and lawmakers are visiting campuses to hear students thoughts. According to a central hub for organizing the protests written by the students of Ridgefield High School in Connecticut the walkouts are intended to drive the political change necessary to curb school violence. The day is also a time for students to interact on an elevated platform they have never had before, the site states. It is a day of discourse and thoughtful sharing. Bringing together communities and students to get a national discussion rolling. Organizers have suggested using the event to convey the importance of curbing gun violence to legislators. They are encouraging students to push legislation that would ban assault weapons and tighten up rules around who can buy guns and how. Over 2,500 schools nationwide are expected to participate. In L.A., some students at campuses including Eagle Rock High School, the Ramon C. Cortines School of Visual and Performing Arts and Bravo Medical Magnet plan to walk out. Students from various schools expect to join area marches, including those in Santa Monica and Huntington Park. Other schools are hosting career days and voter registration drives. At 1 p.m., students plan to start a rally in front of L.A. Unified headquarters. For the record: An earlier version of this article stated that 12 teachers and one student were killed in the Columbine shooting. The opposite is true: twelve students and one teacher died. Facebook
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Stabbing of popular student devastates South El Monte High School; teen friend suspected in slaying By Sonali Kohli When administrators at South El Monte High School called Jeremy Sanchezs parents to say he never showed up for class Wednesday, his father began to worry. It was unusual for the 17-year-old junior to miss school, so his father filed a missing persons report and assembled two of Jeremys close friends to look for the popular student-athlete. Their search took them to a scenic stretch of the San Gabriel River Trail, where one of the friends a 16-year-old boy made a tragic discovery. Among the bushes in the riverbed near Thienes Avenue and Parkway Drive was Jeremys body, punctured with stab wounds, according to Lt. John Corina of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Read More Facebook
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Racist fliers spark outrage at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo By Alene Tchekmedyian Soon after Neal MacDougall arrived on the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo campus Tuesday, the professor noticed university police standing outside a restroom near his office. A racial slur against African Americans had been scrawled in red marker on a stall wall. Later, he discovered a series of racist fliers pinned up next to his door. Someone had also slashed posters hed hung outside his office supporting students in the country illegally. The discovery was the latest controversy on the prestigious campus which the president said is less than 55% white that MacDougall said demonstrates a culture of racism at the university. Last week, photographs emerged of white fraternity members, including one in blackface, flashing gang signs. Read More Facebook
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The superintendent waiting game, paying for L.A.'s College Promise, Princetons slave history: Whats new in education By Joy Resmovits Acting LAUSD superintendent Vivian Ekchian is a finalist for the permanent job. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) In and around Los Angeles: The L.A. Unified school board spent 10 hours interviewing and discussing candidates for superintendent. When they adjourned after 10 p.m., they said they would reconvene on Friday. Who is paying for Mayor Eric Garcettis much-touted College Promise, a program that promises two years of community college for LAUSD grads? In California: The Legislature is considering a proposal that would boost K-12 education funding for black students. When the cost of living is taken into account, California has the highest rate of child poverty. Nationwide: The families of two children killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School are suing Alex Jones and Infowars for saying the school massacre never occurred. Princeton will name two spaces an arch and a garden after slaves who lived or worked on the campus. Facebook
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L.A. school board meets privately with finalists and debates choice for school district leader By Howard Blume The Los Angeles Board of Education adjourned late Tuesday after spending more than 10 hours interviewing candidates and trying to reach a decision on who would be the next leader of the nations second-largest school system. When the meeting finally recessed at 10:11 p.m., a spokesman announced only that the school board would reconvene Friday at noon. Going into the days meetings, there were apparently four finalists, according to sources who could not be named because they were unauthorized to speak. Read More Facebook
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Two Sandy Hook families sue Alex Jones and Infowars for saying the school massacre never happened By David Altimari Families of two children killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School have filed lawsuits in Texas against controversial radio host Alex Jones for continually claiming the massacre never happened. Neil Heslin, the father of Jesse Lewis, and Leonard Pozner and Veronique De La Rosa, whose son Noah Pozner died in the massacre, filed separate lawsuits late Monday in Travis County, Texas. The lawsuits allege that Jones defamed the parents by constantly calling them crisis actors and insisting the shooting was a false flag operation; they also claim Jones accusations have led to death threats against the Sandy Hook families by Jones followers. Read More Facebook
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Beutner emerges as a top pick for L.A. schools superintendent amid last-minute jockeying By Howard Blume Austin Beutner has emerged as a leading contender to run the Los Angeles school district, with backers saying he is smart enough and tough enough to confront its financial and academic struggles. Though he does not have a background in education, the former investment banker has in the last year examined some of the districts intractable problems, serving as co-chair of an outside task force with the support of then-Supt. Michelle King. Sources inside and outside the school district said Beutner appears to have more support on the seven-member board than other finalists, and his name could come up for a vote as early as Tuesday. Read More Facebook
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Challenge at Chicago school construction site: Watch for 38,000 unmarked graves By Nereida Moreno A 15-year effort to build a school in Chicagos Dunning neighborhood is underway with an unusual complication: Construction workers are taking careful steps to avoid disturbing human remains that may lie beneath the soil. The $70-million school is to be built on the grounds of a former Cook County Poor House, where an estimated 38,000 people were buried in unmarked graves. Among the dead are residents who were too poor to afford funeral costs, unclaimed bodies and patients from the countys insane asylum. There can be and there have been bodies found all over the place, said Barry Fleig, a genealogist and cemetery researcher who began investigating the site in 1989. Its a spooky, scary place. Read More Facebook
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Oklahoma teacher walkout winds down despite lawmakers failure to meet demands By Washington Post Oklahomas largest teachers union has announced an end to a walkout that has drawn thousands of educators out of classrooms and to the state Capitol demanding greater investment in the states schools, which have endured the nations steepest funding cuts. The announcement Thursday from the Oklahoma Education Assn. does not necessarily end the protests at the Capitol, as teachers not affiliated with the union vowed to stay longer. Instead of a walkout, the union and school districts across the state have said they plan to send delegations of teachers to Oklahoma City to keep the pressure on lawmakers. Teachers and their supporters have also promised to push education issues to the forefront of November elections, when the state chooses a new governor. As school districts begin to reopen, the protests may lose steam. The Legislature is not in session Friday, and observers are waiting to see what happens Monday, when lawmakers return. Read More Facebook
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Most Californians are worried about school shooting threats and oppose arming teachers, survey finds By Joy Resmovits Hamilton High School student Aiyana Dabriel holds a sign during a March 14 walkout in support of the Parkland shooting victims. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) Most Californians are worried that a school shooting like the one that occurred in Parkland, Fla., in February could shed blood closer to home, a new survey found. Some 73% percent of adults and 82% of public school parents said they were very concerned or somewhat concerned about school shootings. The Public Policy Institute of California surveyed 1,704 adults in the state by phone just after the March for Our Lives protest against gun violence. Latino and black respondents were significantly more likely to be concerned about school violence than white or Asian respondents, the institute found. Two-thirds of adults and public school parents said they opposed letting more educators carry weapons in school. The response differed across party lines, with 86% of Democrats and 69% of independents voicing their opposition, while 60% percent of Republicans said they would support a measure to arm educators. The poll, which had a margin of error of 3.2% in either direction, also asked Californians about school funding, educational issues in the governors race and the impact of immigration enforcement on students. You can find the full results here. Facebook
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Californias largest virtual charter school network agrees to contract with its teachers By Anna M. Phillips Nearly four years after teachers at Californias largest online charter school voted to unionize, they have reached a deal to increase pay and create job protections, according to a spokesman for the California Teachers Assn. The contract, which is still tentative and subject to ratification, is a victory for the teachers union. Although charter schools are publicly funded, most are privately managed and their employees arent protected by labor contracts. Under the terms of the contract the result of years of negotiation and legal wrangling approximately 500 teachers working for California Virtual Academies will no longer be at-will employees who can be dismissed for almost any reason. Their average salary will rise to just over $45,000, according to union estimates, a figure that remains far below the norm for traditional public school teachers. Still, it is an improvement over the previous average of $38,000. The accord also places a limit on the number of students each teacher is responsible for monitoring in online homeroom classes. Were very satisfied with the gains we made, said teacher Brianna Carroll, president of California Virtual Educators United. I think were going to see some extraordinary changes in our schools. According to Carroll, teachers at California Virtual Academies better known as CAVA had grown frustrated with the organizations foot-dragging and were making preparations to go on strike when CAVAs leadership agreed to the deal. CAVA and K12, the Virginia-based for-profit company linked to its schools, did not immediately respond to an email Tuesday asking for comment. The network currently operates nine virtual charter schools across California. In 2016, the charter network agreed to pay $8.5 million to settle claims of false advertising, misleading parents and inadequate instruction. The state attorney generals office had also accused K12 of controlling the charters for its own financial benefit. Neither CAVA nor K12 admitted to wrongdoing in the settlement. A year later, the state imposed a $2-million fine on CAVA after an audit found that it had misspent public funds. The network disputed the findings. Facebook
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School board approves a new formula for funding high-need schools By Sonali Kohli L.A. schools will soon get more money if they are located in neighborhoods with such problems as high levels of gun violence and asthma. The Los Angeles Unified school board voted unanimously Tuesday to adopt a new formula to determine how to dole out some funding to schools, based not only on the characteristics of the student populations but on the traumas that affect the communities around campuses. The new formula will be applied to $25 million in funding next fiscal year and about $263 million annually in future years a small part of the districts $7.5 billion annual budget. Read More Facebook
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Protesters demand Ref Rodriguez resignation outside school board meeting By Sonali Kohli Students, parents, teachers and UTLA marching outside the board meeting chanting "Ref resign" pic.twitter.com/W0LRWZSIXY Sonali Kohli (@Sonali_Kohli) April 10, 2018 A few dozen parents, students and teachers marched outside the Los Angeles Unified School Board meeting Tuesday, some calling for board member Ref Rodriguez to resign the week after news broke that he was taken into custody on suspicion of being drunk in public at a Pasadena bar and restaurant. Rodriguez was not cited or charged in that incident, but was held for more than five and a half hours before being released. The school board member faces felony and misdemeanor charges for political money laundering. He is accused of getting more than two dozen people people to donate to his campaign for his school board seat with the understanding that he would reimburse them. He stepped down from his post as school board president after he was charged last fall, but he did not give up his seat on the board. He has pleaded not guilty to three felony counts of conspiracy, perjury, and procuring and offering a false or forged instrument, as well as 25 misdemeanor counts related to the alleged campaign money laundering. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May. He cant give his full focus to our students, said Rebecca LaFond, a Highland Park parent whose three children marched with her as she chanted, Ref resign. One daughter marched in front of her, using a drum stick to hit the bottom of a gallon-size empty water jug. Our kids deserve someone who has the utmost ethical standards representing them, LaFond said. The protests continued into the board meeting, where some addressed Rodriguez directly, calling on him to step down during public comment portions of the meeting. Rodriguez, through his chief of staff, declined to comment. Some parents outside the board meeting did not know about the charges against Rodriguez but came out to protest the possibility of sharing their school campuses with charter schools. Protesters also oppose colocation not all of the parents are here to ask Ref Rodriguez to step down pic.twitter.com/1Co8zQ9zSi Sonali Kohli (@Sonali_Kohli) April 10, 2018 Cynthia Martinez said her son, who goes to Christopher Dena Elementary School in Boyle Heights, has been bullied in the past by students from a charter school sharing the campus. She said she didnt know who Rodriguez was. Some parents and teachers are worried about losing computer labs, robotics rooms and fitness centers if they are required to share their campus with charter schools, said Ilse Escobar, a parent community organizer for United Teachers Los Angeles. The issues of Rodriguez and colocation are related, Escobar said. Rodriguez is part of a majority on the school board elected with financial backing from charter school supporters, and many parents, she said, feel that the school board is compromised if he is a part of it. Staff reporter Howard Blume contributed to this post. Facebook
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Delaine Eastin tries to gain momentum in the California governors race, one voter at a time By Seema Mehta Delaine Eastin was a sophomore in high school when a drama teacher urged her to try out for a part in The Man Who Came to Dinner. She hesitated until he told her: This is a metaphor for your whole life. If you never try out, you will never get the part. Eastin auditioned and won the role. Decades later, the advice sticks with the former state schools chief, this time in her unlikely run for governor. Despite calls for more women in leadership roles in state politics following sexual misconduct allegations in Sacramento, Eastin has been largely overlooked in the race, lagging far behind her Democratic rivals in fundraising and the polls. Read More Facebook
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Arizona high court rejects in-state tuition for DACA recipients By Associated Press Young immigrants granted deferred deportation status under a program started by President Obama are not eligible for lower in-state college tuition, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled Monday. The unanimous ruling will affect at least 2,000 students attending the states largest community college district and hundreds more at other colleges and the states three public universities. The Maricopa County Community Colleges District and state universities said they would begin raising tuition immediately for the coming school year. Read More Facebook
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New York high school students injured when bus strikes overpass By Associated Press A charter bus carrying teenagers returning from a spring break trip Sunday night struck a bridge overpass on Long Island, seriously injuring six passengers and mangling the entire length of the top of the bus. The crash happened shortly after 9 p.m. Sunday on the Southern State Parkway in Lakeview, according to New York State Police. One of the six injured passengers had very serious injuries, said State Police Maj. David Candelaria. Thirty-seven other passengers suffered minor injuries. Read More Facebook
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Some good news for California in national student test scores By Joy Resmovits Every two years, the nations fourth- and eighth-graders are tested in math and reading and newly released results from last years tests give California at least a little reason to be pleased. The 2017 results out Monday night were mostly flat nationwide compared with 2015, though the average score in eighth-grade reading went up. But while that improvement largely came from the increased scores of the highest-performing students, California eighth-graders showed some reading progress from the lowest levels to the highest. Read More Facebook
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Under state control, Inglewood school districts financial picture worsened By Anna M. Phillips When Eugenio Villa agreed to return to the Inglewood schools for a second tour last summer, he knew the district remained one of Californias most troubled. Inglewood Unified had been nearly insolvent when it was taken over by the state Department of Education in 2012. Six years later, its enrollment was still declining. Its school buildings were tired some edging into decrepitude. Its test scores and graduation rates were still below the state average. And the public was out of patience. Still, Villa, who had signed back on as the districts chief business official, was shocked at what he found when he arrived in June 2017. Two years earlier, he had left the school system on what he thought was firm ground. Read More Facebook
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Charter school group drops two lawsuits against L.A. Unified By Howard Blume A charter schools advocacy group last week announced that it would end two long-running lawsuits in which it was seeking more classroom space and construction money from the Los Angeles school district. The decision, the California Charter Schools Assn. said, reflects better relations between charter schools and the L.A. Unified School District. But the move also suggests that the litigation, which already contributed to significant gains for area charters, was unlikely to produce much more. It takes time, money and effort to litigate, said Ricardo Soto, general counsel for the charter group. Maybe its better to see if we can find the time and opportunity for collaboration. Read More Facebook
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L.A. school board member Ref Rodriguez is arrested on suspicion of public intoxication By Richard Winton Los Angeles school board member Ref Rodriguez was arrested recently on suspicion of being drunk in public at a Pasadena restaurant, the latest trouble for an elected official who faces political money-laundering charges. Pasadena police took Rodriguez into custody on March 16, according to city spokeswoman Lisa Derderian. Officers arrested Rodriguez at about 4:30 p.m. at the Yard House restaurant and bar at the Paseo Mall and held him in jail for more than five-and-a-half hours. Rodriguez was ultimately released without being cited or charged, Derderian told The Times. Other details about the arrest were not available, she said. Read More Facebook
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Kentucky teachers rally at Capitol over state budget By Associated Press Thousands of Kentucky teachers filled the streets near the state Capitol in Frankfort on a cold, overcast Monday to rally for education funding. Teachers and other school employees gathered outside the Kentucky Education Assn. a couple of blocks from the Capitol chanting, Stop the war on public education and holding or posting signs that say, Weve Had Enough. Were madder than hornets, and the hornets are swarming today, said Claudette Green, a retired teacher and principal. Read More Facebook
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Los Angeles Unified School District has spent more than $1 million in the last three years cleaning lead and arsenic from the soil at David Starr Jordan High School in Watts.
Now the school district is suing the citys housing authority to get those costs covered.
The district says that the contamination seeped into the soil from a neighboring parcel of land that the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles bought in 2008 to develop.
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The school district says the schools arsenic and lead levels are currently safe but that the housing authority needs to take responsibility for the work thats already been done as well as for any future work.
This is an environmental cleanup cost recovery action, said L.A. Unified general counsel Dave Holmquist. We have not been able to get the housing authority to step up and do what their responsibility is.
The site was used for heavy industry from the 1930s to the 1970s. Scrap metal was stored there, and furnaces melted scrap iron for use in steel products.
Some of our own investigation showed that the very identical contamination at the property had spread way beyond the border of that wall onto the high school property, said Barry Groveman, an attorney who filed the lawsuit on behalf of the school district.
The housing authority has done nothing to address the hazardous contamination that has migrated from the site to the school site, despite the sensitive nature of the schools occupants and the daily exposure for eight hours a day to the contaminants at issue, the suit alleges.
Housing officials say the lawsuit surprised them. Doug Guthrie, the housing authoritys president and CEO, said the school district has not proved that the contamination on campus spread from the industrial site next door, and hasnt itemized its costs or said how much money it is asking for.
I have no idea what theyve excavated, Guthrie said. I have no idea what any of their bills are.
According to the lawsuit, the housing authority told the school district in 2016 that it would not investigate contaminant levels beyond its property line because such an investigation could put potential federal funding at risk.
Guthrie said that he would have preferred a solution that didnt involve court, and that school officials have not returned his emails for weeks. School district lawyers said L.A. Unified employees had not ignored any such emails.
State regulators ordered the housing authority in 2014 to test for and clean lead contamination and harmful metals at the Jordan Downs housing project homes near its plot of land.
But Guthrie said no one had determined if the housing authority also was responsible for the school property.
We want to be good neighbors. Were the ones who stepped in to clean up this 50-year-old site. And we spent a lot of money on it, Guthrie said. Were not the bad guys here. We never polluted any of this site.
To read the article in Spanish, click here
Reach Sonali Kohli at Sonali.Kohli@latimes.com or on Twitter @Sonali_Kohli.
State oil and gas regulators have found dozens of violations at the Newport Banning Ranch oil field that developers want to turn into a large hotel and housing complex.
Notices issued by Californias Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources on Feb. 28 list nearly a dozen pages of violations, including wellhead and pipeline leaks, small chemical spills and discarded equipment.
The state directed the field operators, West Newport Oil Co. and Armstrong Petroleum Corp., to correct the problems by March 31 or face enforcement actions.
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The documents include photographs taken last year by oil and gas division inspectors who found piles of rusting, abandoned equipment and debris scattered across the 401-acre site, one of the largest privately owned, undeveloped parcels on the Southern California coast.
The proposal to build a resort and 895 homes on the Orange County property has fueled an ongoing development fight.
The California Coastal Commission rejected the project last year after commission scientists concluded that the land, though disturbed by decades of oil production, was home to ecosystems and wildlife that have all but vanished from the regions coastline.
The developers, who are challenging the denial in Orange County Superior Court, frequently cited the fields messy conditions during their commission appearances.
As part of the project, they argued, they would clean up the fenced-off tract and set aside much of it as a nature preserve open to the public.
Opponents pointed out that one of the development partners, Aera Energy, has long held a 50% interest in Banning Ranch and could have cleaned it up long ago, even though it has never been involved in oil operations at the site.
Aera is not named in the new violation notices. But as a landowner it has been named, along with Armstrong and West Newport Oil, in previous federal and state orders involving the destruction of wetlands and wildlife habitats.
Representatives of West Newport Oil and Armstrong could not be reached for comment on the new violation notices, which were made public Thursday.
According to the state documents, inspectors who visited Banning Ranch in September and October found fluids bubbling in the cellar of a well that also had a casing that was moving from side to side.
Inspectors noted numerous wellhead leaks, dilapidated fencing, debris, inadequate covers on well cellars and a dozen tanks that had not been properly taken out of service.
bettina.boxall@latimes.com
Twitter: @boxall
A federal judge has tentatively approved the U.S. governments offer to pay $1 million to the children of a Mexican man who died after being beaten and shocked with a stun gun at the San Ysidro Port of Entry.
The settlement will be dispersed among the five children of Anastasio Hernandez Rojas, 42, who had lived and worked in the U.S. illegally since he was a teen. U.S. Magistrate Judge Louisa Porter, whose approval was needed because two of the children are minors, delayed signing the final order until she was certain the funds didnt need to go through probate.
This agreement is not justice, Hernandez Rojas wife, Maria Puga, said after the hearing Thursday. My husbands life does not have a price. The decision had to be taken and it was difficult. We had to turn the page.
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A spokesman for U.S. Customs and Border Protection in San Diego declined to discuss the settlement. The U.S. attorneys office in Phoenix, which handled the case, also declined to make a statement.
I hope you use the funds so you can have a good life going forward, Porter told Hernandez Rojas two 10-year-old children, who were at the hearing. The judge said that their father came to this country to improve his life, and hed like to see your lives improved by virtue of all the sacrifices he made for you.
The 7-year case shined a spotlight on use of force at the border and what critics say is a lack of transparency at CBP, the nations largest law enforcement agency.
Because of the familys persistence, said Pedro Rios of the U.S.-Mexico Border Program at American Friends Service Committee, an immigrant rights group, Customs and Border Protections use-of-force manual was made public and studies were launched looking at the issue.
Attorney Eugene Iredale, who represented the family, said the case highlighted the critical need for public awareness and involvement to prevent brutality. He lauded the two witnesses who stopped to record the beating on their cellphones.
Unfortunately, the attitude that was so prevalent in what happened to Anastasio has now received a renaissance because of a new [Trump] administration, Iredale said.
Hernandez Rojas had just crossed the border illegally near Otay Mesa with his brother in May 2010 when they were caught by Border Patrol agents.
According to the lawsuit, an agent told Hernandez Rojas to throw away a water jug he was holding and then slapped it out of his hand when he appeared to misunderstand the command. The agent threw him against a wall and kicked his legs apart, hitting metal pins in his ankle from a previous injury.
Hernandez Rojas requested medical attention and told a supervisor he had been roughed up but was ignored, according to the suit. Authorities later took him to the San Ysidro Port of Entry, where they took off his handcuffs. Hernandez Rojas put his arms down instead of behind his head, prompting agents to try to restrain him.
During the struggle, Hernandez Rojas could be heard on a witnesses video pleading for help and asking why he was being treated like an animal. He resisted efforts to put him into a vehicle to take him for booking, authorities said. One CBP officer shot him with a Taser and others held him face down and grabbed his legs.
After they discovered that Hernandez Rojas had stopped breathing, they took him to a hospital, where he was put on a ventilator for two days before he died.
An autopsy concluded that Hernandez Rojas had died of a heart attack and listed contributing factors, including methamphetamine intoxication, heart disease, the Taser shocks, the physical exertion and restraints. The autopsy stated that he would not have died if he hadnt been under the influence of drugs, the Justice Department said.
Federal agencies, including the Justice Department and FBI, investigated the death but found there was not enough evidence to justify criminal charges against any of the 12 agents or officers involved.
Its an embarrassment to this agency to continue to have the 12 agents working, the agents who killed my husband, said Puga, 46, who lives in San Diego with four of her children.
kristina.davis@sduniontribune.com
Davis writes for the San Diego Union-Tribune
A mother and her 3-year-old son were killed when their car plunged into an aqueduct in Hesperia on Thursday night and another child who was in the vehicle remains unaccounted for, authorities said.
The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department and paramedics responded to a report at 6:40 p.m. of a car that was fully submerged in the California Aqueduct in the 13000 block of Main Street, the coroners department said in a release.
Christina Estrada, 31, and her 3-year-old son, Jeremiah Abbott, were pulled from the water. Estrada was pronounced dead at the scene and Jeremiah was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
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The San Bernardino County Fire Department tweeted Thursday night that one child remained unaccounted for. The sheriffs dive team continued the search for the 2-year-old Friday morning, a spokeswoman tweeted.
News outlets reported that there had been three children in the car and that one remained hospitalized.
brittny.mejia@latimes.com
Twitter: @Brittny_Mejia
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UPDATES:
10:05 a.m.: This article was updated with the age of the missing child.
This article was originally published at 8:35 a.m.
A 35-year-old man upset over a recent divorce set a Santa Ana home on fire Thursday night, authorities said.
Police responded to the home in the 1000 block of West Washington Avenue around 7 p.m. on a family-disturbance call, said Cpl. Anthony Bertagna of the Santa Ana Police Department. Police had been to the home numerous times previously, he said.
When officers arrived, they found the suspect, who was despondent over a recent divorce, Bertagna said. He added that the man was breaking things inside his family home and when officers tried to speak with him he retreated to the back of the house.
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At that point, Bertagna said, the suspect allegedly set the house on fire, ran out of the home and was then taken into custody by police.
When firefighters arrived on the scene, the fire at the two-story Craftsman-style home was so intense that they could not make entry into the residence, authorities said. Eight people were displaced from the home, according to Capt. Larry Kurtz of the Orange County Fire Authority.
The suspect is facing two counts of intentional arson, Kurtz said. One count deals with the suspects home itself; the other deals with a house next door that was damaged.
brittny.mejia@latimes.com
Twitter: @Brittny_Mejia
When thieves broke into Dennis DiBiases Woodland Hills home two days before Christmas, they swiped $30,000 in jewelry, including a diamond ring DiBiase planned to give his wife for the holiday. They even hauled off a Sparkletts water bottle filled with three decades worth of coins.
The midday intrusion was the latest jolt to this San Fernando Valley neighborhood. Property crime has risen 24% since 2014 in the Los Angeles Police Department division that oversees Woodland Hills, an uptick that has residents calling for more police patrols.
Citywide, violent crime was up in 2016 for the third consecutive year. Property crime jumped for the second year in a row, with a double-digit increase for car-related thefts.
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Reversing that trend has proved elusive for Mayor Eric Garcetti, who is seeking reelection. When he took office, the mayor vowed to use analytics and data to help improve city services and by some measures, such as making streets cleaner, hes been successful.
But the citys efforts to reduce crime are complicated by rising homelessness, gang activity and the effects of Proposition 47, which downgraded some crimes to misdemeanors.
Garcetti is the first Los Angeles mayor faced with rising crime in more than a decade. After 12 years of declines, violent crime climbed for the first time in 2014 Garcettis first full year in office.
The next year, both violent and property crime increased. Those numbers crept higher in 2016.
Residents say more crime along with increasing homelessness has changed their neighborhoods. And some are frustrated by what they believe is a lack of urgency, and leadership, at City Hall.
Brent Page, head of the Southwest Area Neighborhood Development Council, regularly sees police cruisers in his South L.A. neighborhood, but he said response times are an issue. Residents tell him that officers react quickly to a call only if theres a shooting or a weapon is involved.
I want to know what Garcettis plan is for the LAPD and crime, Page said. Its something that we need to look at during budget time.
Despite the uptick, Los Angeles remains far safer than in the 1980s and 1990s, when gang wars and a crack epidemic roiled neighborhoods. Nearly 1,100 people were killed in 1992 in the city, compared with 294 last year.
Politicians take credit when the crime goes down, so naturally theyre going to take some heat when crime is up, said Raphael Sonenshein, executive director of the Pat Brown Institute for Public Affairs at Cal State L.A. But its worth keeping in mind how high crime was 20 years ago.
Its the only thing he should be doing: police and fire, No. 1 and No. 2. David Lasher, Porter Ranch resident
For big-city mayors, bringing down crime is a major resume-booster.
Garcettis predecessor, Antonio Villaraigosa, expanded the LAPD and ended his two terms with a decrease in crime. He now touts his work making L.A. safer as he campaigns for governor.
Drawing criticism, Garcetti broke tradition in January by not holding an annual news event to talk about 2016 crime numbers. His office cited a scheduling conflict and stated that crime statistics are available on the LAPDs website.
Mayoral candidate Mitchell Schwartz held a news conference last month to accuse Garcetti of ducking the issue during the election season.
Garcetti said in an interview this year that the city acted aggressively to address the crime increase, which he believed had stabilized. The mayor said data show crime flattening in latter 2016 and early 2017.
We are at a place where this year we can expect it to be flat or coming back down, Garcetti said. And given how historically low it is and how much different this town is than before, I think thats a pretty significant accomplishment.
Although crime rose again in 2016, LAPD statistics show the pace of the increase slowed in the second half of the year. Midyear, violent crime was up 16.3%, and it finished the year with a 10.2% increase.
Overall, crime went from a 6.6% increase in June to a 5.5% increase at the end of the year.
People dont want things to go back to the way they were. Jorja Leap, UCLA professor
Statistics through Feb. 18 show that overall crime is up 1.2% in 2017 compared with the same period last year. LAPD officials caution that the numbers can fluctuate early in the year.
When asked about the most recent crime figures, Garcetti said Thursday that he was encouraged by the positive trend so far this year, but we have more work to do.
The mayors low-profile response to this years crime statistics contrasts with how visible he was following a surge in 2015. This is bad news, Garcetti said at a news conference that year to detail crime stats. Let me be clear: Any uptick in crime is unacceptable.
The 2015 expansion of the LAPDs Metropolitan Division a strategy unveiled by Garcetti in his State of the City address allowed the department to send more officers to neighborhoods hit hardest by violent crime.
Jeff Gorell, Garcettis deputy for public safety, said the mayor intends to add more officers to housing units in South L.A. this year and will continue work on crime-fighting programs that he said had proved successful in the past.
DiBiase, whose home was burglarized, said residents in his neighborhood need to install security systems amid what he believes is a lack of police presence in the area.
We need more officers, he said.
LAPD data show that crime rose last year in some parts of the city that are traditionally considered safer, such as West L.A., where robberies jumped by 17% and motor vehicle thefts by 27%. In the Topanga Division, which encompasses Woodland Hills, violent crime rose almost 20%.
Porter Ranch resident David Lasher said he plans to vote for Schwartz. He wants more attention paid to public safety, adding that he had to wait 45 minutes for police to arrive after his home was burglarized in 2015.
He criticized Garcetti for focusing on issues related to immigrants in the country without legal permission.
Its the only thing he should be doing: police and fire, No. 1 and No. 2, Lasher said. I dont care about the street-vending stuff. If you cant live in your home in happiness, in peace, you have nothing.
After persistent complaints from his Westside constituents about a lack of police patrols, City Councilman Mike Bonin unveiled a plan in January to get more officers on the streets by shifting officers to neighborhoods from desk jobs and other nonpatrol assignments.
His proposal mirrors one by the Los Angeles Police Protective League, the union that represents rank-and-file LAPD officers. In a recent survey of union members, 87% said their stations did not have enough officers to respond to 911 calls in a timely manner.
The police union, which endorsed Garcetti, wants to hire civilians for jobs now assigned to sworn officers. They also want to address what they describe as a flawed workers compensation system that keeps officers out of work for too long.
Dustin DeRollo, a union spokesman, said theres been progress in dealing with crime under Garcetti, but more needs to be done.
The crime problem in Los Angeles and the staffing problems that we have, theyre not simple to fix, DeRollo said.
UCLA professor Jorja Leap, who helps run a leadership program in Watts, believes finding employment and deportation fears are more of an issue for South L.A. residents than crime.
But theres concern among locals about the uptick, she said, and residents want to continue working with the LAPD on community initiatives.
People dont want things to go back to the way they were, Leap said.
Times staff writers Michael Finnegan and Ben Poston contributed to this report.
dakota.smith@latimes.com
Twitter: @dakotacdsmith
kate.mather@latimes.com
Twitter: @katemather
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Less than a week before Election Day, millions of dollars have poured into the bitter fight over a ballot measure that would restrict real estate development in Los Angeles.
And two of the biggest spenders are familiar foes, already locked in a legal battle over a Hollywood building project.
Real estate development company Crescent Heights has been at odds with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation over its plans to build two towers next to the foundation headquarters on Sunset Boulevard. So far, Crescent Heights has contributed more than $2.5 million to oppose Measure S. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in turn, has chipped in more than $5.5 million to support it.
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The ballot measure would impose a moratorium on building projects that require zoning changes and other alterations to city rules. It would also target spot zoning by banning amendments to the General Plan a document that governs development across the city that allow individual projects in areas they would otherwise be prohibited.
Supporters say it will thwart out-of-scale development that spoils neighborhoods and displaces residents; opponents say it will exacerbate the housing crisis and eliminate jobs.
Backers of the controversial measure argue that the Crescent Heights project, known as the Palladium Residences, is a prime example of the problems they are trying to stop. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation contends that the 30-story residential towers will be too tall and too dense for their location and will worsen traffic and accelerate gentrification.
The foundation has sued the company and the city over the Palladium Residences project, arguing that L.A. violated the California Environmental Quality Act and other laws when it approved changes in city planning rules to enable the Sunset Boulevard towers.
Its Exhibit A of how City Hall operates and gives spot zoning and exemptions to billionaire developers without considering the rules, Yes on S spokeswoman Ileana Wachtel said Wednesday outside the Century City offices of Crescent Heights, at a news conference spotlighting the money that the Miami-based firm had spent.
The millions spent fighting the ballot measure are cheap insurance to make sure that they can get special favors, added Debra Hockemeyer of the Brentwood Hills Homeowners Assn.
Steve Afriat, a spokesman for the project, countered that Crescent Heights was spending money to preserve opportunities to create housing in Los Angeles. The company and its representatives argue that the Sunset Boulevard project will provide needed housing without tearing down any existing apartments, and stress that 5% of units will pay rents below market rates. Supporters point out that there are other buildings in the area including the one that houses the foundation that reach or exceed 20 stories.
Opponents of the ballot measure contend that AIDS Healthcare Foundation executive Michael Weinstein is simply trying to preserve the views from his Hollywood office and have criticized him for spending nonprofit funds to support Measure S.
Its a shame that prosecuting his personal vendetta uses funds for HIV/AIDS care to block affordable housing and eliminate jobs, said Josh Kamensky, a spokesman for ballot measure opponents.
Weinstein has denied that his concerns have anything to do with his office view and bristled at arguments that the nonprofit should not be funding the ballot measure, contending that people with HIV and AIDS are among the victims of gentrification that it will help. At a Tuesday news conference, he argued that his opponents were trying to distract from the billionaire developers who are financing the No campaign.
Other real estate interests that have ponied up money to fight Measure S include the Westfield shopping center company, which is seeking to redevelop a Woodland Hills mall as a vast complex with apartments, shops and offices; Century City Realty, which won city approval for a Century City office tower; and a company affiliated with Frank McCourt, a former owner of the Dodgers who has retained half interest in the stadium parking lot.
In addition, the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and other groups tied to labor unions have given roughly $1.7 million to oppose the measure.
While backers of Measure S have attacked developers and corporations who are fighting the ballot measure, opponents have continued to take aim at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, which has provided almost all of the funding for the Yes on S campaign.
The opposition campaign recently sent out a mailer calling the nonprofit a corporation with a history of misusing taxpayer money, reiterating concerns with its political spending and citing a lawsuit that alleged it had defrauded federal programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Foundation spokesman Ged Kenslea said those were baseless claims.
Los Angeles voters will go to the polls to weigh in on Measure S and other local issues on Tuesday.
emily.alpert@latimes.com
Twitter: @LATimesEmily
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Montclair police are crediting a quick-thinking 14-year-old girl with protecting herself and her 4-year-old niece when a burglar broke into her familys home this week.
I was very scared. Not so much for myself but for Zoyee, Savannah Jones told KTLA-TV Channel 5, referring to her niece.
It was about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday when police said Savannah heard someone knock on the door of the familys home in the 10200 block of Monte Vista Avenue.
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Savannah said she looked through the peephole and didnt recognize the man on the other side.
The man jiggled the door knob. It was locked, Montclair police said.
Savannah grabbed her niece, ran upstairs into a bathroom and locked the door.
Then I heard one or two more loud bangs. Thats when I realized he was in the house, she said. I could hear him going through my moms room. He came toward the door where we were hiding. I was just hoping he wouldnt know we were in there.
Afraid the burglar would hear her if she called 911, Savannah texted her mother instead.
He is inside mom hes gonna here me, she wrote. U call or come home or something mom.
Savannahs mother texted back that she had called a neighbor, who rushed over to help.
But the man had gotten away after ransacking two rooms, though he never found the girls, police said.
Montclair police officers including a K-9 officer, conducted an extensive search for the suspect, however he was not located and remains outstanding, police said in a statement.
joseph.serna@latimes.com
For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter.
First, undercover police officers bought cocaine, PCP and meth from street dealers in southwest Los Angeles.
Then, investigators worked their way up the hierarchy of the Black P-Stone gang, gathering enough intelligence to prepare search or arrest warrants for alleged mid- to high-level gang leaders.
And in the pre-dawn hours Thursday morning, Los Angeles Police Department officers fanned out across Baldwin Village and nearby areas, arresting 15 people and seizing an array of guns, drugs and body armor, as well as more than $12,000 in cash.
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The operation, called No Stone Love, began in December after an increase in shootings, robberies and burglaries, and was completed in under three months. Those arrested included 79-year-old Clyde Bailey, nicknamed Pops, and three men in their 60s.
Investigators will try to link the assault weapons, handguns, shotguns and rifles to recent homicides and shootings. They believe the Black P-Stones are responsible for a quarter of the gang-related crimes in the area.
The drugs seized included two kilos of rock and powder cocaine valued at $50,000, along with a pound of marijuana and three ounces of PCP.
Weve made the community safer. These guns will no longer be used in other crimes, Capt. Darnell Davenport of the LAPDs Southwest Division said at a news conference Thursday. The marijuana and cocaine and other drugs you see here will not be sold to community members.
Those arrested Thursday morning are suspected of controlling the narcotics trade in the Baldwin Village area, which has long been Black P-Stones turf and is also known as Lower Baldwin Hills or the Jungle.
The suspects were arrested on gun or drug charges, but LAPD officials expect to add more serious charges for some of them.
Since these people will be in jail, we hope, for a long period of time, we will see a significant reduction in violent crime in that community and the sales of narcotics, Davenport said.
The weapons and armor seized in the raids demonstrate a high level of sophistication and include shields capable of deflecting ammunition from high-powered firearms, LAPD officials said.
The undercover drug buys that launched the operation were higher-end, too about $200 each, said Officer James Moon, who works narcotics in the Southwest Division.
Some high-level Black P-Stone leaders are still at large, but officials said the arrests have created gaps in the leadership structure of the gang, which has about 250 active members.
This has a significant impact, Moon said. Some of those supplying narcotics and guns are completely out of the equation.
The group picked up Thursday was noteworthy for the advanced age of some members. In addition to Bailey, those arrested included Vincent Pheine, 66; Michael Money Mike Lofton, 62; and Kenneth Popeye Harrison, 61.
Michael Tank Boddie, 37, was one of the leaders despite being a younger member, Moon said. Court records show that in 2006, Boddie was sentenced to four years in prison for an assault with a firearm.
Lt. Byron Roberts, who is in charge of the Southwest Gang Impact Team, said older crews like this one tend to focus on running criminal business enterprises rather than engaging in gang feuds.
These were the ones making the money, Roberts said. Theyre not doing the drive-bys, the gangbanging.
cindy.chang@latimes.com
Twitter: @cindychangLA
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Paula Fox, a prizewinning author who created high art out of imagined chaos in such novels as Poor George and Desperate Characters and out of real-life upheavals in her memoir, Borrowed Finery, has died at 93.
Her daughter, Linda Carroll, said Fox died Wednesday at Brooklyn Methodist Hospital. She had been in failing health.
Abandoned as a girl by her parents, a single mother before age 20, Fox used the most finely crafted prose to write again and again about breakdown and disruption, what happens under the surface of things.
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In Poor George, her debut novel, Fox told of a bored school teacher and the teen vagrant who upends his life. Desperate Characters, her most highly regarded work of fiction, is a portrait of New York Citys civic and domestic decline in the 1960s, a plague symbolized by the bite of a stray cat.
It seems to me that in life, behind all these names and things and people and forces, theres a dark energy, Fox told the Associated Press in 2011.
Her work was out of print for years, but she enjoyed a late-life revival thanks to the admiration of such younger authors as Jonathan Franzen, David Foster Wallace and Jonathan Lethem.
Her other books included the novels A Servants Tale, 'The Western Coast and a memoir about living in Europe after World War II, The Coldest Winter.
Courtney Love is the granddaughter of author Paula Fox. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)
Fox also wrote more than a dozen childrens books, including The Slave Dancer, winner of the Newbery Medal in 1974. Borrowed Finery, published in 2001, was nominated for the National Book Critics Circle award.
She might have written more novels, but a head injury after she was mugged in Jerusalem in the 1990s left her unable to write long fiction. She instead began working on memoirs and shorter pieces.
Born in New York City in 1923, Fox was the daughter of novelist-screenwriter Paul Fox and fellow screenwriter Elsie Fox.
Paula Fox remembered her father as a drunk given to interminable, stumbling descriptions of the ways in which he and fellow writers tried to elude domesticity. Her mother was a sociopath who kicked her out of the house as a young girl. Fox lived everywhere from a plantation in Cuba to a boarding school in Montreal.
My life was incoherent to me, Fox wrote in Borrowed Finery. 'I felt it quivering, spitting out broken teeth.
If only she could have gathered all the people she met and placed them in a single room. Living in Hollywood in the 1930s and 40s, she danced with John Wayne and encountered John Barrymore, yellowing with age like the ivory keys of a very old piano.
Marlon Brando was a friend, and Courtney Love is her granddaughter. Loves mother, Carroll, was given up for adoption by a 19-year-old Fox. Foxs brother-in-law, Clement Greenberg, was among the 20th centurys most influential art critics.
Although a devoted reader since childhood, she didnt publish until past 40. She worked for years as a teacher and as a tutor for troubled children and was married briefly for a second time, to Richard Sigerson, with whom she had two sons.
She finally settled down with her third husband, translator and commentary editor Martin Greenberg, whom she met after he had rejected a story she submitted for the magazine.
In The Coldest Winter, Fox wrote that living abroad had liberated her mind, showing me something other than myself. Her early fiction included the stories Lord Randall and The Living, narrated in colloquial style by black characters and published in the mid-1960s by Negro Digest. In The Slave Dancer, a young boy is captured and forced onto a slave ship.
Ive never been a slave. Ive never been black. I was never on a ship. But I have a certain narrow understanding of certain kinds of characters, and of evil and kindness and goodness and tenderness, Fox told the AP.
But by the 1990s, her work was forgotten by all but her most determined admirers one of them was Franzen. The future author of Freedom and The Corrections came upon Desperate Characters, which he called an overlooked masterpiece in a Harpers magazine essay about American fiction.
Author Tom Bissell, then a paperback editor at W.W. Norton, read the essay and wondered why he hadnt heard of the novel. He looked in stores, without luck, and finally got in touch with Fox, who sent him one of her copies. Norton since has reissued all of Foxs adult novels, with introductory essays by Franzen and others.
Veteran Israeli photographer David Rubinger, whose photo of Israeli paratroopers at the Western Wall holy site became an iconic image of the 1967 Mideast war, has died at 92, his children said Thursday.
Rubinger worked as a photojournalist for Time-Life magazine for nearly half a century. His portraits span the history of Israel, from the front lines of the countrys major wars to intimate photos of Israeli prime ministers and Jewish immigrants.
His most famous photo was of the paratroopers after Israeli forces captured the Western Wall and east Jerusalem in 1967.
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In an iconic image, Israeli paratroopers stand at the Western Wall in 1967. (David Rubinger/AFP/Getty Images)
Frequently these days, when looking back over the years, I find myself asking how I could have been so lucky, Rubinger wrote in his biography, Israel Through My Lens: Sixty Years as a Photojournalist.
I went through 10 wars unscathed and survived countless other high-risk situations, and I have reached the peak of the photographic profession, with worldwide recognition for my work, being the oldest person on the masthead of Time, one of the worlds most prestigious magazines, he said.
Rubinger was born in Vienna in 1924 and immigrated to Palestine in 1939. He discovered photography while serving in the British armys Jewish Brigade in World War II. He was the first photographer to be awarded Israels highest honor, the Israel Prize, in 1997.
There are those who write the pages of history, and there are those who illustrate them through their cameras lens. Through his photography, David eternalized history as it will be forever etched in our memories, Israeli President Reuven Rivlin said.
More than a month after he became Americas top diplomat, Rex Tillerson is like no other modern secretary of State: Hes largely invisible.
Tillersons absence was conspicuous Friday at the release of States annual report on human rights around the world, a normally high-profile event that other governments closely monitor and previous secretaries rarely missed.
But Tillerson has given no media interviews and has not held a single news conference. He has made two brief trips abroad and was overshadowed both times by other Cabinet officials. His news releases are chiefly independence day greetings to other nations.
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The White House blocked him from appointing his choice for a deputy, so he still has none. Dozens of assistant secretary positions, the diplomats who head bureaus for specific regions and issues, also are unfilled.
Foreign diplomats who previously studied the near-daily State Department briefings for guidance on U.S. policy on matters large and small have little to go on. The last public briefing was on Jan. 19, the day before Trump took office; they are set to resume on March 6, but on an irregular schedule.
Tillerson had dinner with President Trump last week but his influence at the White House is difficult to discern. He appears to be competing with Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law, and Stephen Bannon, the presidents chief strategist, both of whom have Trumps ear on foreign policy.
One test of Tillersons influence is looming. The White House is considering deep budget cuts for State that could significantly curtail his ability to conduct the global diplomacy that has been the backbone of U.S. foreign policy under previous administrations.
At least in public, Tillerson has yet to explain his view on those cuts. Opposition already is growing in Congress, however. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said last week that sharp cuts to foreign aid and the State Department are unlikely to clear the Senate.
Previous secretaries of State John F. Kerry, Hillary Clinton, Condoleezza Rice, Colin Powell, among others were global celebrities.
It might be argued how much power each ultimately wielded, but all were highly visible, frequently seen at his or her presidents side or in top-level encounters with world leaders.
Aaron David Miller, a former U.S. diplomat who served under six secretaries of State, described a marginalized Tillerson heading an incredibly shrinking State Department.
A way has to be found to empower Tillerson, Miller said. Without that, it takes five seconds for allies or adversaries to understand that the secretary of State does not have a whole lot of weight.
Other foreign policy experts worry that the administration has been so slow to fill scores of policy and operational positions at State, leaving acting appointees in charge.
Some are very good, but it still means none have any authority, said Henri Barkey, a former State Department official who now heads the Middle East program at the non-partisan Wilson Center think tank.
There is no policy out there, and it is not clear Tillerson knows what hes supposed to do, he added.
In Washington, foreign diplomats and non-governmental organizations that routinely work with the State Department say it appears rudderless.
There is no one under him, said a Western diplomat who asked not to be identified because the diplomats embassy must deal with the State Department. Visiting delegations have meetings but find everyone in listening mode.
Clearly no one below Tillerson is making any decisions, and people are trying to figure out what he wants, said the representative of an advocacy group who also asked not to be identified because the group is partially funded by the State Department.
Its unclear if Tillersons under-the-radar style reflects his personality, or if he is following a script from a White House that has taken control of foreign policy in the Middle East and with Mexico, and has stressed a robust military buildup over diplomacy and foreign aid.
At a news conference last week, White House spokesman Sean Spicer defended Tillersons relationship with Trump, saying the president regularly seeks and receives the diplomats input in terms of foreign policy interaction.
Stephen Hadley, former national security advisor for President George W. Bush, said the new secretary is moving carefully in a challenging new environment.
Hes an engineer and engineers learn the facts and follow where they lead, Hadley said. Hes a systems guy, a step-by-step guy Hes starting out slow as he learns the job. People need to give him some time.
As a CEO of the global energy conglomerate Exxon Mobil before he joined the administration, Tillerson preferred flying to global capitals with a small entourage, swooping in to make deals. He answered to a corporate board of directors and shareholders.
With the FBI and several congressional committees investigating whether the Trump team had improper contacts with Russian authorities, perhaps its not surprising that Tillerson who was close to Russian President Vladimir Putin several years ago has kept his head down.
But his semi-disappearing act at State after decades of high-profile, globe-trotting secretaries of State could have far-reaching implications for Americas position in the world.
Since taking office, Trump has alarmed allies by deriding the role of international institutions and trade pacts, squabbling with leaders of Mexico and Australia, challenging decades of policy with China and announcing a neo-isolationist America First policy toward the rest of the world.
My job is not to represent the world, Trump said Tuesday night in his first speech to Congress. My job is to represent the United States of America.
Tillerson felt compelled to weigh in the next day, issuing a statement that seemed aimed at salvaging his role as well as Americas use of soft power and persuasion around the world.
The State Department will continue to engage to advance U.S. interests in the world in cooperation with our partners and allies, Tillerson said. American foreign policy must promote our core values of freedom, democracy, and stability.
Tillersons defenders say he is methodical in his approach to diplomacy and is not concerned about making what he views as media splashes.
The silver-haired Texan prefers not to make pronouncements unless he really [has] something to say, according to a senior State Department official familiar with his thinking.
But he also appears cut out of the White House loop at times.
When Michael Flynn, then the national security advisor, announced last month that the administration was putting Iran on notice for testing a ballistic missile, Tillerson had not been consulted on what normally would involve the State Department.
Early in the administration, analysts had predicted that Tillerson would join forces with Defense Secretary James Mattis and Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly, both retired generals, in creating a troika of steady hands to help guide the inexperienced president and his team.
Instead, Tillerson faded from view on his debut trip to a G-20 ministerial meeting in Bonn, Germany. While he was there, Mattis and Vice President Pence drew global attention when they spoke to a high-profile security conference in Munich.
Tillerson brought only a skeleton staff to Bonn. A photograph showed him beside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, where the Russian was flanked by numerous aides while Tillerson sat with three.
Tillersons other trip was an overnight visit with Kelly to repair a diplomatic rift with Mexico City about Trumps insistence that Mexico pay to build a border wall. Mexican officials have flatly refused.
But Kelly grabbed the headlines when he announced that Homeland Security would not carry out mass deportations or use the U.S. military to enforce immigration laws hours after Trump had boasted of a military-style roundup of undocumented immigrants.
Neither Tillerson nor Kelly took questions from a salon full of U.S. and Mexican reporters, some of whom had flown from Washington and who waited hours for what turned out to be the reading of prepared statements.
tracy.wilkinson@latimes.com
For more on international affairs, follow @TracyKWilkinson on Twitter
Ailing asylum seeker Sara Beltran-Hernandez was released Thursday after 15 months in federal detention in a case that was highlighted by opponents of President Trumps crackdown on immigrants in the country illegally.
The 26-year-old mother from El Salvador, detained in November 2015, was being held in the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, when she was diagnosed last month with a brain tumor.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, known as ICE, came under criticism for having her removed last week from a hospital and returned to the detention center.
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The government did not contest Beltran-Hernandezs request to be released on bond at the brief hearing Thursday in front of immigration Judge James Nugent in Dallas. Bond was set at $15,000.
Beltran-Hernandez was to undergo medical evaluations later in the day to determine whether she would be well enough to fly to New York to join her family.
Immigration agents arrested Beltran-Hernandez in November 2015 as she crossed the border from Mexico into Hidalgo, Texas, in an attempt to eventually reach New York. She made a petition for asylum, claiming that she had been badly abused by the father of her two young children and threatened with death by a gang.
Two other attempts to be released on bond were denied.
She has been locked up for 450 days while her asylum claim is pending, said Eric Ferrero, a spokesman for Amnesty International, which had taken up her case. Asylum claims should be treated promptly and fairly, and while they are processed people should be treated fairly.
Although her plight has been linked to Trumps crackdown on illegal immigration, Amnesty International officials say her troubles started under the Obama administration, which was using detentions as a way to discourage illegal border crossings.
This case spans two administrations, Ferrero said. We are concerned that the Trump administration is taking a bad situation and making it worse with overly aggressive enforcement.
Beltran-Hernandezs asylum case most likely would not have attracted attention if not for her sudden medical emergency. She collapsed Feb. 10 at the detention center and was diagnosed afterward with a large pituitary adenoma that was bleeding into the brain, according to her lawyer, Fatma E. Marouf.
Marouf said that Beltran-Hernandez was able to avoid immediate surgery because the bleeding had stopped, but that she needed to be closely monitored in case it resumed.
She is feeling terrible. She has constant pain in her head, Marouf said. These kinds of tumors are mostly benign, but as they grow that can put pressure on other parts of the brain.
Immigration officials have disputed the lawyers claims. In a statement, they said she was not so ill as to require surgery and that she was not shackled during medical visits, as human rights advocates have said.
During her hospital stay, ICE officers ensured that Beltran-Hernandez was able to speak to her family and to her attorney of record by phone, the agency said in a statement Thursday. She also met with her attorney of record and consular representative in person Feb. 23. Like all detainees in our care, Beltran-Hernandez will continue to have access to 24-hour emergency medical care and access to any required specialized treatment at an outside facility.
barbara.demick@latimes.com
Twitter: @BarbaraDemick
Good morning. Its Friday, March 3, and heres whats happening across California:
TOP STORIES
The dangers of living near the freeway
If you live near a freeway in Los Angeles, youre more likely to get a heart attack, a stroke or lung cancer. Despite these health risks, more apartments are being built and more people are moving in, even though living there makes people sick. Los Angeles Times
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We want your stories: Do you live near a freeway? Tell us your story. Los Angeles Times
The changing city
The evolving face of Los Angeles more vertical and less about bungalows with orange trees is on the ballot next week. The outcome of Measure S is not just about a two-year moratorium on projects that require Los Angeles City Council approval. Its about L.A.s changing identity. Los Angeles Times
Open it up
Californias highest court decided unanimously Thursday that government officials may be required to make public what they said about official business on their private telephones and personal computers. Advocates for public access have long complained that government officials were deliberately using private devices to shield their communications from public records requests. Los Angeles Times
The big IPO
We built our business on creativity,. And were going to have to go through an education process for the next five years to explain to people how our users and that creativity creates value. After a whirlwind month of IPO preparations and investor discussions, Evan Spiegel popped off his tie and sat down for a black coffee in a brick-walled Brooklyn cafe. The 26-year-old Snap Inc. chief executive is one of the youngest entrepreneurs in history to a take a company public and perhaps the youngest-ever to lead a $30-billion enterprise. Los Angeles Times
Plus: When is the right time to invest in L.A.s hottest company? Los Angeles Times
And in Venice: They held a protest hoping Snapchat leaves the beach. Curbed Los Angeles
L.A. STORIES
Hoping for a reunion: A sick Syrian boy is in L.A. His parents are in Syria and cant get here. So they see each other on the phone. Theres a push to get the parents to L.A. Eyewitness News ABC 7
More dirty air: Flaring from a controversial refinery in Torrance has caused high amounts of pollution compared with other local refineries. Daily Breeze
Hot property: What does it mean when a home in El Sereno yes, El Sereno sells for nearly $1 million? LAist
Time capsule: In 1938 this week, a catastrophic flood of the Los Angeles River devastated the city. Check out these images of the damage. NBC Los Angeles
Vegas train talk: A new report estimates that a high-speed train route linking Las Vegas and Anaheim would attract 11 million round-trip riders a year by the year 2035. Las Vegas Review-Journal
IMMIGRATION AND THE BORDER
Ground floor of the wall: President Trumps border wall might be bad for Southern Californias immigrant population, but it could be good for some of the regions construction businesses. There are about 50 entities from California that signed on to the pre-solicitation notice put out by the Department of Homeland Security last Friday concerning the walls construction. Los Angeles Times
Uncertain future: Heres the story of two young Latina Dreamers from San Diego who are graduating from high school and college, respectively, as students who benefited from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program question their futures. NBC News
POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT
Not-so-easy pickings: Councilman Paul Koretzs quest to be reelected for a third time is proving to be no walk in the park. Los Angeles Times
Your tax dollars at work: A recent state audit found some curious evidence on state employees. An example: A library employee at California State University Fresno may have cost taxpayers $22,200 in time he wasted using his work computer to visit 48,000 Web pages for online videos and games unrelated to his duties during a 13-month period. San Diego Union-Tribune
Rail money: Gov. Jerry Brown has asked the Trump administration to reverse itself on a key decision to withhold a $647-million grant for a state passenger rail project. Los Angeles Times
Not gonna happen: Not so fast on the Oprah for president rumor. Los Angeles Times
CRIME AND COURTS
Joining the fight: The city of Los Angeles has joined an amicus brief supporting transgender bathroom rights for students in a case thats before the Supreme Court. CBS LA
DROUGHT AND CLIMATE
Hot doc: Theres a new documentary out about Californias historic drought. Its called Water & Power: A California Heist, and its on National Geographic. Los Angeles Times
Cat killed: A California coyote hunter killed a mountain lion after the cat pounced on him near the northern shore of Mono Lake. Authorities say he was mimicking a wounded rabbit. Sacramento Bee
Testing, testing: A power plant at the foot of the Oroville Dam, closed last month after a portion of the reservoir was overwhelmed by rising waters, could begin tests as early as today in anticipation of reopening. Los Angeles Times
Too early for St. Patricks Day: Why a creek in Placerville suddenly turned bright green. Sacramento Bee
CALIFORNIA CULTURE
Rap time: When I say my community, Im talking about Compton, Long Beach, L.A., the Bay Area, San Francisco, Oakland. For them to be like: Hes the champ! He knows what we go through and what we dealing with Im talking about growing up in a gang-infested community in L.A. So the album comes out and then I go on tour and Im rockin, Im on stage and I see that the energy is the same as it was when I was at home in Compton. Read more about Kendrick Lamars artistic inspiration. The New York Times
At the DQ: Dairy Queen is making a comeback in Southern California with fast-food focused restaurants. Orange County Register
Remaking magic? How Disneyland is being remade in the image of Marvel Comics. Los Angeles Times
CALIFORNIA ALMANAC
San Diego and Los Angeles area: sunny Friday, partly cloudy Saturday. Sacramento and San Francisco area: partly cloudy Friday, rainy Saturday. More weather is here.
AND FINALLY
Todays California memory comes from Cynthia Tanner:
I have been coming to California for over 30 years, and in the past few years have visited every Christmas. We pack our standard poodle in the car, take a ferry to Washington state from Vancouver and then begin the multi-day drive to Northern California. Because of the traffic, a two-day trip becomes a five-day drive! Every time we leave southern Oregon we are first greeted by the golden bears on the bridge at Klamath River. A few more miles south we enter the first of the Redwoods, and its a sight that never fails to take my breath away. A few months ago we stopped to admire one of the largest redwood trees in the world over 1,500 years old and there was no one around us, just these majestic trees and the sound of the wind. I will never forget the beauty and peace of that moment, and I cant wait to return.
If you have a memory or story about the Golden State, share it with us. Send us an email to let us know what you love or fondly remember about our state. (Please keep your story to 100 words.)
Please let us know what we can do to make this newsletter more useful to you. Send comments, complaints and ideas to Benjamin Oreskes and Shelby Grad. Also follow them on Twitter @boreskes and @shelbygrad.
Partisans cherish a persistent illusion: Everything would be fantastic if it wasnt for those dopes in the other party. Yet, as one side gains power, its ability to pass the buck invariably wanes.
In Washington, where Republicans now control the White House, the Senate and the House of Representatives, there is no one else to blame if the healthcare system, the tax code and the economy do not improve, or if the environment deteriorates and our foreign enemies assert themselves. For the next two years, the GOP owns every federal policy success and failure.
Many Californians fear the worst from the GOPs virtual monopoly. President Trump is unpopular here. So are the Republicans. In fact, Golden State officials have positioned themselves as a bulwark of resistance to significant parts of their agenda.
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Gov. Jerry Brown is defiant on environmental policy. Sheila Kuehl of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has encouraged people to engage in any way they can to slow down anything that might come from the federal departments and Congress, declaring that you cant just be dormant when fascism is growing.
Were a case study in what a political community looks like when Republicans wield little or no power.
On many matters, state and local officials ought to oppose the Trump administrations populist nationalism, in accordance with the United States federalist system and the 10th Amendment.
At the same time, California Democrats cannot cast themselves as a mere resistance movement, for the simple reason that, in the Golden State, their power far surpasses the Republican advantage in Washington.
California voters have elected a Democratic governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, treasurer, controller and insurance commissioner. The state Senate has more than twice as many Democrats as Republicans. So does the state Assembly. Democratic mayors preside in San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Long Beach and Los Angeles.
Were a case study in what a political community looks like when Republicans wield little or no power and an ongoing refutation of the conceit that but for the GOP, the United States would be free of dysfunction.
Sure, the Golden State gets a lot right. Its the sixth-largest economy in the world.
But California ranks in the lowest fifth of states in education. Housing costs are out of control. Our major cities face a crisis of homelessness. Our police officers kill citizens at rates comparable to the rest of the country. Our infrastructure is severely overstressed due to underinvestment. The bullet train project meant to connect L.A. to the Bay Area is a national joke. Our counties, cities and schools are being crushed by an unsustainable pension burden. Our taxes are already among the nations highest.
And it is no longer plausible to blame any of this on Republicans. For the foreseeable future, Democrats own every Golden State success and failure.
That ought to be a wake-up call, even if the California GOP remains too incompetent to win.
Most California public servants are nothing if not earnest in their horror at the direction President Trump is taking the country. Few seem to realize that theyre in a position to oppose Trumpism in a manner much more powerful than defiant statements and fleeting acts of resistance. They are in a position to govern well in the nations biggest state.
They can be the change they want to see in government and demonstrate to the country that Democrats know how to improve American communities.
To govern badly is always a failure of the publics trust. To do so now, as a public servant in California to ignore dysfunction in deference to a special interest group or kick problems down the road to avoid the difficulty of solving them isnt just a betrayal of the public, it is high-octane fuel for the ascendant Trump coalition.
The national GOP is deeply flawed. Until Democrats acknowledge that those flaws are mostly inconsequential when it comes to what ails California, the Golden State will fall short of its potential, and the rest of the country will reject even the best of what we have to offer.
Positive leadership by example will always be more compelling than mere opposition.
Conor Friedersdorf is a contributing writer to Opinion, a staff writer at the Atlantic and founding editor of the Best of Journalism, a newsletter that curates exceptional nonfiction.
Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook
MORE FROM OPINION
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L.A. finally has the money to fight homelessness. Heres how architecture can help the cause
I first landed at the Kansas City airport in the wee hours of Jan. 7, 2003. Id soon be starting university at a small liberal arts school in Kirksville, Mo., a three-hour road journey from Kansas City. It was my first time in the Midwest. It was my first time in America. I was sleep-deprived. The airline had lost my bags. I didnt want to spend money on a hotel room. Id have to wait at the airport until it was light. The school shuttle was scheduled to pick me up at 11 a.m.
Friends and family in India often asked me why Id go to the American Midwest for college. My reasons were simple. My high school grades were awful; theyd never get me into a good college in India. Id Googled some combination of award-winning+student+newspaper, and Truman State University came up. It was the only school I had looked into. Without letting my parents know, I applied to it and was offered a scholarship.
I told my parents about my plans only after I had been accepted. They were concerned. They would have been fine were I heading to the East or West Coast. They had heard stories horror stories about the American Midwest. They claimed these stories became more gruesome the farther you went from a big city. Kirksville was far from any big city one had to drive an hour and a half to get to an Indian restaurant. My parents were afraid of racism. They were afraid of guns. They were afraid for me. I told them they had nothing to worry about, but 9/11 was still fresh in everyones mind.
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It wasnt Islamic terrorism as much as the treatment of brown-skinned people that caused my family concern. My Hindu parents were afraid Id be mistaken for a Muslim.
Indians worst fears about our brownness being a liability have been realized.
But I was in a college hungry for diversity. Most of my peers were from small-town America, the kind of people who responded to Do you like Indian food? with Ive never eaten Indian, but Id like to try it. Many were the kind who gave you a ride to Wal-Mart and asked that you repay the favor by accompanying them to church next Sunday. Many had never been on a plane. Some had never been outside the state. All were accepting. All were curious. All wanted to know more about other cultures. I showed some of these people how to eat with their fingers.
On our weekly phone calls, my parents often asked about racial discrimination. Theres none, Id say. A few minor incidents had occurred when a cohorts computer stopped working in the middle of a PowerPoint presentation, she asked me, and no one else in the 30-strong class, if Id be able to help but they came from ignorance, not malice. If anything, they were good conversation fodder. Soon, my parents stopped asking me about racism.
My senior year of college, I interviewed for an account executive position at the Olathe Daily News. Id heard of Olathe, a Kansas City suburb that was safe, wealthy and idyllic. I was happy to start my career there. To celebrate a successful interview, a few friends and I went out. A number of us had just turned 21, so we had started going to bars. Id graduate soon. I had a well-paying job lined up. Life was great, I reflected, as I ordered another drink.
Thats when the comment came. Its source was a tattooed man in shorts. He may have had only half his teeth, but I could be wrong. [Damn] 9/11 people what are we doing allowing them in the bar? he spat out, using an expletive unfit for publication. His friends laughed. My friends were horrified. Lets leave, someone said. We are so sorry, another remarked. Naah. Lets stay, I said. Hes entitled to an opinion. Its not like he will shoot me.
That was 2006, a different time. We were naive. Last week, some maniac in Olathe, the place I was supposed to start my career, killed an Indian thinking he was Middle Eastern. The president of America finally deigned to condemn the incident. In India, we are all pretty shaken. Our worst fears about our brownness being a liability have been realized.
A few days ago, I took an international flight. The morning of my journey, I did something I had promised myself Id never do: I shaved my beard so I wouldnt be mistaken for a Muslim. I felt like a coward, but I shaved. I yearn for an era when I thought racism meant someone asking me if I was good at fixing computers because I was Indian. I yearn for a time when victims of racist comments had the confidence to linger in bars because they were sure no one would shoot them.
Prajwal Parajuly is the author of Land Where I Flee and The Gurkhas Daughter. He lives in New York, London and Kolkata, India.
Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook.
To the editor: Democratic operatives continue to rearrange deck furniture on the Titanic that is their party. In electing a favorite of the Clintons and the Obama White House in the form of former Labor Secretary Tom Perez to lead the party, the corporate wing still thinks it can rebuild the party by branding itself as progressive. (New Democratic Party chief Tom Perez, with Ellison as deputy, vows to take the fight to Trump, Feb. 25)
Party insiders have learned nothing from Sen. Bernie Sanders near-upset of Hillary Clintons coronation. The party also recommitted to accepting corporate donations. This reflects Clintons big-donor fundraising model, embracing the hypocrisy and corruption embedded in it.
Also, entrenched Democratic political operatives will keep their jobs. They stood to lose lucrative party contracts if the progressive wing had prevailed.
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President Trump didnt win; the Democrats lost by continuing Bill and Hillary Clintons fake left, move right opportunism. This will not fix the broken Democratic Party or win elections.
David M. Dozier, Encinitas
..
To the editor: I thought journalism school taught that the opening sentence of a news article should go to the heart of the story, yet this time that wasnt disclosed until the articles final sentence. The more I read about politics and the establishment always prevailing, the more nauseous I become.
The final sentence reads, Perez was encouraged to run against [Rep. Keith] Ellison by some Obama allies who stood to lose lucrative party contracts in a takeover by the Sanders faction.
Trumps congratulatory tweet could not have been more apt: I could not be happier for him, or for the Republican Party!
Roger Schwarz, Los Angeles
Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
To the editor: President Trumps reprehensible statement Tuesday blaming the epidemic of bomb threats against Jewish community centers and desecrations of Jewish cemeteries on a possible reverse (false flag) operation suggests that he cannot distinguish fact from fiction. (More bomb threats at Jewish schools and community centers, and another Jewish cemetery is vandalized, Feb. 27)
Presidential inaugural addresses often set the theme for a presidency. Thomas Jefferson, extolling American liberty, lauded the safety with which error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it. Abraham Lincoln, facing civil war, asked Americans to be guided by the better angels of our nature. Franklin D. Roosevelt, defying the Great Depression, insisted that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.
Trump, by contrast, evoked American carnage. His improved tone in Tuesday nights speech didnt moderate the message.
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Stephen A. Silver, San Francisco
..
To the editor: The point is not that Trump is anti-Semitic. It is that he enables it, accepts it in his supporters and thus spreads it and other forms of bigotry.
Paul Malykont, Los Osos
Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
The Trump administrations plan for putting hundreds of thousands of recent migrants in the country illegally onto a fast track for deportation is likely to trigger the next major legal battle over immigration enforcement.
Judges have put on hold the presidents temporary ban on travel to the U.S. from seven Muslim-majority countries. That executive order, as originally proposed, could have affected tens of thousands of travelers and U.S. visa holders.
But the administrations efforts to step up immigration enforcement and streamline deportation outlined in memos from Homeland Security Secretary John F. Kelly could affect far more people, including potentially most of the estimated 11 million immigrants living illegally in the United States.
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One part of that effort the expanded use of what the law refers to as expedited removal is almost certain to face a constitutional challenge in the courts.
Until now, this fast-track process has been used to hold and quickly send back migrants who were picked up within days of having crossed the border. The legal justification has been that those people, having just entered the country illegally, had no legal rights, except perhaps to request asylum from persecution in their home country.
Noncitizens living in the country illegally can be arrested and held for deportation, but they have had a right to a full hearing before an immigration judge before they can be removed from the U.S. At such a hearing, they may rely on the help of a lawyer and can argue they have family and work ties here. If a ruling goes against them, they may appeal in the immigration courts and in federal court. The process typically takes years.
In his Feb. 20 memo, however, Kelly complained the immigration courts were clogged and the removal process was too cumbersome, and he called for a new approach.
The surge of illegal immigration at the southern border has overwhelmed the system, he said. There are more than 534,000 cases currently pending on immigration courts dockets nationwide a record high. In some areas, he said, it takes as long as five years for a case to be heard by an immigration judge.
To speed up deportations, Kelly proposed to use expedited removal, with no hearings before a judge, for those immigrants who cannot prove they have been continuously present in the United States for a two-year period prior to their arrest. The new procedures would not be limited to border areas and could be used to deport immigrants living in the interior of the country.
Kelly said the law since 1996 has authorized the government to remove aliens expeditiously, and he said his agents shall make full use of these authorities.
Immigrants rights advocates voiced alarm. The American Immigration Council said this approach means a Homeland Security agent operates as prosecutor and judge and often arrests an individual and orders him or her deported on the same day. With limited exceptions, the government takes the position that noncitizens subject to expedited removal have no right to appeal.
Civil liberties lawyers also call that proposal unconstitutional, and they expect to sue if the Trump administration puts the new policy into effect.
We believe expedited removal fails to afford a meaningful opportunity to defend oneself, and that, whatever its validity when employed at the border, it would be unconstitutional as applied to those living among us who are entitled to full due process protection, said David D. Cole, national legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union.
The Supreme Court has repeatedly said that immigrants, even those who are here illegally, are protected by the Constitutions guarantee of due process of law.
The justices cite the 5th Amendment, which says, No person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property, without due process of law. Because the language refers to no person, not to no citizen, its protections cover even one whose presence in this country is unlawful, involuntary or transitory, the court said unanimously in 1976.
But how much process is due for immigrants who entered illegally or overstayed their visas remains a gray area, said UCLA law professor Hiroshi Motomura.
Its possible that a court might find that a full immigration court hearing isnt constitutionally required, he said. But it is also possible that a single field agent making the decision is constitutionally deficient.
Jessica Vaughan, policy director for the Center for Immigration Studies, which advocates for reducing the level of immigration to the U.S., said the Trump administration is simply following the law.
Expedited removal is a form of due process provided by Congress, she said. People who did not enter the country legally have no plausible claim to be able to stay. It doesnt make sense to let them prolong their stay by asking for a court date.
But Peter Margulies, who teaches immigration law at Roger Williams University in Rhode Island, said due process of law usually refers to the right to a hearing. An immigrant who is arrested should get a fair chance to present her case. And that means an adversarial hearing before an immigration judge, he said. The expanded expedited removal contemplated by the DHS memo is a recipe for runaway discretion.
Still, he said he was not confident the Supreme Court would see it that way. This could be a 4-4 split, and it will be up to Justice (Anthony M.) Kennedy, he said.
By coincidence, the high court has two pending cases that turn on the constitutional rights of noncitizens. In a Los Angeles case, Jennings vs. Rodriguez, the justices will decide whether immigrants who are held for deportation have a right to a bail hearing after six months. The government is appealing a 9th Circuit Court ruling that these people have a right to be released on bond if they are not a flight risk and pose no danger.
And in Hernandez vs. Mesa, the court will decide whether the parents of a Mexican teenager can sue the U.S. agent who shot and killed their son as he stood in the concrete culvert that marks the border.
The rulings, due by June, may clarify the constitutional protections for immigrants, but that would be just a start, said Cornell law professor Stephen Yale-Loehr.
These executive orders have not received the same media attention as the presidents travel bans. But they will eventually impact millions of more people. Many more people will be detained and deported, he said.
And we will be litigating this for years.
david.savage@latimes.com
On Twitter: DavidGSavage
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Working from a 24th-floor office in Manhattans Trump Tower, Felix Sater spent years trying to line up lucrative deals in the United States, Russia and elsewhere in Europe with Donald Trumps real estate organization.
For much of that time, according to court records and U.S. officials, Sater also worked as a confidential informant for the FBI, and he says U.S. intelligence.
I was building Trump Towers by day and hunting Bin Laden by night, Sater, now 50, told the Los Angeles Times in a phone interview from New York.
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As managing director of Bayrock Group LLC, a real estate development firm, the Russian-born businessman met Trump in 2003, court records show, when Trump was looking to expand his business and branding organization around the globe.
Although few projects were built, Sater worked on hotel and condominium deals with the Trump Organization through 2010 in New York, Florida, Arizona, London, Moscow and elsewhere even as he secretly helped the FBI infiltrate and take down organized crime figures, according to court records.
Trump has denied they were close, but Sater had access to Trumps inner circle as recently as this year.
In January, Sater and Trumps personal attorney, Michael Cohen, met in a New York hotel with a Ukrainian lawmaker who asked them to bring the White House a pro-Russian peace deal for Ukraine.
I was only trying to stop a war, Sater said of his role linking the lawmaker, Andrei Artemenko, with Cohen.
The New York Times, which first reported the meeting, quoted Cohen as saying he gave the envelope containing the proposal to Michael Flynn, then Trumps national security advisor, but Cohen now denies delivering it.
I acknowledge that the brief meeting took place, but emphatically deny discussing this topic or delivering any documents to the White House and/or General Flynn, Cohen wrote in an email to the Los Angeles Times.
The White House has no record of receiving the Ukraine peace proposal, according to spokesman Michael Short. He also said that no one in the White House had discussed the matter with Cohen.
There is no question that Sater led a double life during the years he worked with the Trump Organization.
In 1998, Sater pleaded guilty to a federal charge of racketeering for his role in a Mafia-linked $40-million stock fraud scheme. He quickly cut a deal, agreeing to become a secret FBI informant in hopes of getting a lenient sentence.
Court records were sealed to protect Saters identity, so his role in the fraud case stayed secret for a decade while he was at Bayrock. After a court hearing in 2009, he was fined $25,000 but was not sent to prison or ordered to pay restitution.
At his sentencing hearing, several FBI officials vouched for Saters help. He got his biggest endorsement in January 2015 when Loretta Lynch was asked at her Senate confirmation hearing for U.S. attorney general why court records had been sealed in the fraud case.
Sater had secretly worked with federal prosecutors and the FBI for more than 10 years, providing information crucial to national security and the conviction of over 20 individuals, including those responsible for committing massive financial fraud and members of La Cosa Nostra the Mafia according to Lynch, who had served as U.S. attorney in the Eastern District in New York.
Saters lawyer, Robert W. Wolf, gives his client more credit, saying he worked with numerous U.S. national security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies. Sater says he helped hunt Americas greatest enemies in Afghanistan and elsewhere.
There is no independent verification of those assertions.
Former CIA officials who worked in counter-terrorism and Russian affairs said they never heard of Sater and doubt his cloak-and-dagger claims of chasing down terrorists.
We should not take this guys statements at face value, said Glenn Carle, a former CIA operations officer who retired in 2007. There are all sorts of people who seek protection by wrapping themselves in the American and CIA flags.
A spokesman for the CIA declined to comment.
Saters business history with Trump is well documented, however.
In their first deal, in November 2003, the Trump Organization and Bayrock announced plans to build a 19-story condominium tower and hotel complex in Phoenix.
Residents who objected that the project was too large forced a citywide referendum to block construction, however. Trump pulled out in 2005, and the project was never built.
The following year, Bayrock licensed Trumps name and began construction of a 24-story hotel and condominium complex in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
The project ran out of money and was hit by lawsuits and claims of fraud by buyers. Trump was dropped from the lawsuits after asserting he was not the developer and was not responsible for the problems.
The Trump Organization and Bayrock developed the Trump Soho hotel in Lower Manhattan starting in 2006. Sater appeared with Trump at a launch party in September 2007.
Sater left Bayrock the following year after news stories first revealed his criminal record. He continued to work with the Trump Organization he had business cards that called him a special advisor and kept his offices in Trump Tower trying to put together real estate deals through 2010.
Sater said he had signed several development deals with Trumps company, including one for a Trump Tower in Moscow, but none were built.
We were looking to do deals in various capitals, in London, Paris we had no special affinity for Moscow, Sater said in the interview.
Sater says he was still pitching deals to the Trump Organization in 2015. A lawyer for the Trump company did not return requests for comment.
In a sworn deposition in 2013 in a civil suit, Trump said he barely knew Sater.
If he were sitting in the room right now, I really wouldnt know what he looked like, Trump said.
Short, the White House spokesman, declined to comment on Saters role as an FBI informant or on Trumps relationship with him.
Born in Russia, Sater grew up in Brighton Beach, a gritty Brooklyn neighborhood known for its large Russian community, after his father emigrated from the Soviet Union in 1972.
Sater became a licensed stock broker, but he stabbed a man with a broken margarita glass during a bar fight in 1991. He was convicted of felony assault and served about a year in prison.
During his years as an informant, Sater sometimes confided in his rabbi who thought he was making up his exploits.
I thought perhaps he had watched too many James Bond movies and read one too many Tom Clancy novels, Rabbi Shalom M. Paltiel said in a 2014 speech naming Sater man of the year for his service to his Chabad congregation on Long Island.
Paltiel said Sater then invited him to a secret thank-you ceremony at a federal building in New York.
To my amazement I see dozens of U.S. intelligence officers, from all the various three-letter intelligence agencies of this country, including some I had never even known existed, Paltiel said in a video posted by Sater. Their accounts were more fantastic and more unbelievable than anything hed been telling me.
Several lawsuits paint a less flattering portrait of Sater, however.
In one, Ernest Mennes, an investor in the Phoenix project, sued Sater and Bayrock in Arizona Superior Court in 2007, alleging that they had skimmed an unspecified amount of money and that Sater had threatened to kill Mennes if he disclosed Saters criminal record.
Sater angrily denied the allegation. You think Im doing Trump Towers [deals] and telling someone I would cut their legs off? Are you crazy? he said in the interview
Bayrock settled the case for an undisclosed amount. In an interview, Mennes praised Sater, saying he served the U.S. well and was a great partner.
joseph.tanfani@latimes.com
Twitter: @jtanfani
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Clad in an olive-green flight jacket, President Trump strode onto the sprawling flight deck of the Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier docked off of Newport News, Va., calling the new $12.9-billion ship an emblem for his plans to pump $54 billion into the military.
It is a monument to American might that will provide the strength necessary to ensure peace, he told a cheering crowd of uniformed sailors and Marines this week.
Yet even as Trump invokes former President Reagans peace through strength doctrine, few in the military policy community know what Trump really wants to do with the proposed 10% annual budget increase or what vision he holds for the armed forces.
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Though Trump repeatedly has called for a military buildup, he spent much of his campaign promising to pull back from the type of expensive commitments and endeavors that would require such a large expansion. He pledged an America First policy and complained bitterly that trillions of dollars spent fighting wars in the Middle East could have been used to rebuild the homeland.
This is a fairly raw grab for money, said Gordon Adams, a senior budget official for national security under President Clinton who worked on the issue for President Obamas transition after the 2008 election. It is based largely on symbolism.
Trump floated some spending ideas promoted by a conservative think tank during his campaign, including troop increases of more than 100,000. And the military has several costly projects that could put the cash to use. But if Trump really wants to force allies in Europe and Asia to shoulder more of their own defense burden as he asserted during the campaign he may not need all these projects, analysts say.
This is a strategy-budget mismatch within the Trump administration, said Todd Harrison, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. A lot of the rhetoric suggests he wants to do less, but in the budget says he wants to do more. Which is it?
Trumps discourse on the topic has vexed observers. During the campaign, Trump called the North Atlantic Treaty Organization designed to protect European allies obsolete and demanded repeatedly that member nations pay a larger share of their defense expenses. He made similar demands of Japan and other Asian allies. He also criticized both Democrats and Republicans for spending trillions of dollars on operations in the Middle East and southwest Asia.
If I become president, the era of nation-building will be brought to a very swift and decisive end, he said during an August policy address in Ohio.
At the same time, Trump has called for a bigger military that can start winning wars again.
Meanwhile, Trump has repeatedly said he wants to limit foreign engagement in order to avoid costly ground wars but believes a more muscular military will deter foes.
Hopefully, its power we dont have to use, Trump said aboard the aircraft carrier Thursday, praising the ships size and strength. But if we do, theyre in big, big trouble.
He backed NATO more strongly in an address to Congress on Tuesday night, adding further complications to his ambitions.
Trump has compared his peace through strength mantra to Reagans. But Reagan engaged deeply in the world stage during the Cold War. And todays threats from Russia, China and non-state terrorist organizations differ from the singular threat posed by the former Soviet Union, which was met by a long-term deterrence strategy. The U.S. already has the worlds strongest and costliest military.
Does a larger military deter ISIS? I dont think so, Harrison said, using an acronym for the Islamic State militant group.
Harrison said that Trumps recent embrace of NATO coupled with his spending plans for the Pentagon could mean that Trump, whose Cabinet is stocked with former generals, is shifting toward more engagement in the world.
Obama, who held a more traditional foreign policy view, also requested more money to rebuild the military, though not as much as Trump, and demanded that it be coupled with increases in domestic spending.
Trumps $54 billion request is viewed by many as an opening bid. Analysts expect Congress will indeed increase the Pentagons budget, though no one knows the final number.
Hawks in the GOP, led by Arizona Sen. John McCain, have said Trump is not spending enough.
The U.S. Army has spent the last 16 years fighting terrorists and guerrillas, said Loren Thompson, the chief operating officer of the Lexington Institute, who shares McCains view. It just doesnt have the items it needs to fight a tank war or an air war against the Russians in Europe. Its tanks need to be upgraded. Its air defenses need to be better. It needs to be able to counter Russian cyber-attacks.
The extent of the needs would be the subject of fierce debate under any circumstances. Though many Democrats would also like to spend more on the military, they and many Republicans would be unlikely to go along with Trumps demand that it be paid for with sharp cuts to domestic programs that protect the environment, help local communities and serve the poor. Some conservative Republicans may resist attempts to spend more money on any government programs.
Defense Secretary James Mattis is expected to complete a spending plan outlining specific needs over the next few months. He will have plenty of options.
The Pentagon is headlong into the decade-long process of developing a new stealth bomber, dubbed the B-21 Raider, and replacing the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine. The Air Force late last year started assessments of a new intercontinental ballistic missile.
The cost of the modernization is estimated to approach $1 trillion over the next 30 years, with much of it coming within the next decade.
The Navy completed an assessment late last year that concluded it needed to increase the current fleet size to 355 in order to meet the rising number of mission requirements across the globe. The Navy would have to spend $25 billion a year for 30 years to reach that goal, according to a Congressional Budget Office report released last month.
The Navy currently has 274 ships in its inventory, which includes 11 carriers once the Gerald R. Ford joins the fleet. It last had 350 ships in 1998, when it also had 12 carriers. The decrease is due in part to advancing technologies and capabilities, but also rising costs of maintaining the ships.
noah.bierman@latimes.com
Twitter: @noahbierman
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Shortly after Jeff Sessions swore his oath as attorney general, former staffers gathered in the Oval Office alongside him and President Trump for a photo. Missing, one noticed, was Stephen Miller, whod left Sessions Senate office to join Trumps campaign and is now the presidents chief policy advisor.
Trump enthusiastically summoned Miller to join them, saying that without this aide whod worked at Sessions side for years, he wouldnt have been elected president.
That a former aide is now in a powerful West Wing position demonstrates how Sessions has so stocked Trumps administration with allies and loyalists that his influence is unlikely to be diminished, even as he finds himself under fire for failing to disclose meetings last year with a Russian official. Sessions said Thursday that he would recuse himself from the investigation of Russian interference in the presidential election.
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Sessions swearing-in marked the culmination of an unlikely partnership between Trump, the brash and burly New York businessman, and Sessions, an elfin Southerner, that brought each from the fringes of the Republican Party to the center of national power.
And though Sessions doesnt approach you as someone whos going to deliver a knockout punch, he and Trump share a commitment to advancing their agenda of economic populism and tough immigration enforcement, said David Horowitz, a conservative author and head of the Los Angeles-based Freedom Center, who has grown close to Miller and Sessions.
The Republican modus operandi was to get out of the way when you were attacked, he said. Weve reached a turning point in which people are fed up with it and are tired of it.
Early in the campaign, Sessions saw in Trump a willingness to unapologetically express hard-line views on immigration, as Sessions himself had for years, and the potential for Trumps charisma and message to win him the presidency. He endorsed Trump before anyone else in the Senate, amid the heat of the primary season in early 2016, giving Trump the credibility that came from a senators backing. It came just before the so-called SEC Primary of mostly Southern states in which Texas Sen. Ted Cruz was thought to have the edge among Republicans.
Sessions also brought to the relationship deep knowledge of the inner workings of Washington and Congress, as well as a roster of staff who understood the machinery of the Justice Department and immigration agencies well enough to bend the bureaucracy to their will.
In addition to Miller, whom Trump hired in January of last year, Sessions former chief of staff, Rick Dearborn, is running the White Houses legislative outreach to Capitol Hill. The Sessions orbit also extends into federal agencies; former staffer Gene Hamilton is crafting the plans for implementing Trumps immigration orders at the Department of Homeland Security.
Though the two men joined forces only a year ago, Sessions and Trump first met more than a decade earlier, in 2005. Then, it was the Alabama senator who needed Trumps expertise.
The price tag for a planned renovation of the United Nations headquarters, estimated at $1.2 billion, seemed well beyond what U.S. taxpayers should be asked to guarantee, in Sessions view. And in researching the issue, he discovered that the citys most prominent real estate developer had himself cast doubt on the sky-high figure. Sessions invited Trump to join him in testifying before a Senate subcommittee investigating the issue.
Mr. Trump built the brand-new, top-of-the-line, state-of-the-art, 90-story Trump World Tower almost across the street for $350 million, Sessions said, injecting a bit of Trump-esque hyperbole into the proceeding. How could this renovation cost $1.2 billion?
Trump followed soon after and delivered what Sessions later called a tutorial over the nuts and bolts of New York real estate and construction, a perspective that led him to conclude the project could be done for just over half the price.
Trump, who was gaining greater prominence beyond New York by then for his new and successful prime-time reality show, The Apprentice, said he had raised his concerns directly with the U.N.s leadership, and was pleased to have been summoned to meet with then-Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
I felt like a head of state, Trump said.
But Trump said he recognized he had been invited by Annan mainly for a photo op, and his offers for experienced counsel went unheeded.
It would be 2013 that marked a turning point for Trump and Sessions. After President Obamas reelection, the Republican National Committee commissioned a review of the campaign that recommended, among other things, that the partys path back to the White House depended on more moderate approaches to policy first and foremost, immigration.
Leading Republicans partnered with Democrats in the Senate that year on a comprehensive reform bill that spelled out conditions for a 10-year path to legal status for undocumented immigrants while also enhancing border security. But as it gained momentum on both sides of the aisle, Sessions emerged as its chief critic.
By years end, no other lawmaker would log as much time speaking on the Senate floor as Sessions. At the same time, Trump, discreetly testing a presidential run, was seizing on the issue in new forums of his own. In one interview that summer with Breitbart News an emerging force for opponents to the bill and the website whose executive chairman, Stephen K. Bannon, would become chief White House strategist Trump said that supporting the proposal was a death wish for Republicans.
A country that does not control or respect its own borders is a country destined for failure, he tweeted as the legislation was nearing the finish line. Secure our borders!
But politics still wasnt his primary focus. The next night Trump posted this: The Miss Universe Pageant will be broadcast live from MOSCOW, RUSSIA on November 9th. A big deal that will bring our countries together!
Times staff writers Del Quentin Wilber and Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report.
michael.memoli@latimes.com
Twitter: @mikememoli
brian.bennett@latimes.com
Twitter: @bybrianbennett
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For the second time in a month, evasiveness over meetings with Russias ambassador to Washington, D.C., has complicated life for the Trump administration.
Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions failure to disclose his meetings with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak closely paralleled a similar lapse by former national security advisor Michael Flynn.
In both cases, a major question remains: Since the meetings, themselves, appear not to have been illegal or inappropriate, why dissemble about them?
Good afternoon, Im David Lauter, Washington bureau chief. Welcome to the Friday edition of our Essential Politics newsletter, in which we look at the events of the week in Washington, D.C., and elsewhere in national politics and highlight some particularly insightful stories.
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EVASION TAKES A TOLL
This week started out well for President Trump. His address to a joint session of Congress, notably less divisive in tone than his last two major speeches, got warm reviews, reassured nervous Republican members of Congress and, to the relief of White House aides, left a sometimes fretful president in a good mood. [Heres an annotated transcript, and Mark Barabaks look at how red and blue America heard very different speeches.]
The speech left a lot of important questions unanswered, as Cathy Decker wrote, but nonetheless, White House officials considered it a hit. Hoping to ride a wave of good publicity something theyve not had much of White House officials postponed plans for a Wednesday release of the revised version of the presidents temporary ban on travel from seven mostly Muslim countries. The day, they hoped, would be dominated by reprises of Trumps speech.
That hope lasted a few hours.
Wednesday evening, the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal both reported that Sessions had met at least twice with Kislyak, contradicting his statement to the Senate Judiciary Committee at his confirmation hearing that I did not have communications with the Russians. [Want to know more about Kislyak? Check out Laura Kings profile of the Russian ambassador.]
With leading Democrats accusing Sessions of lying under oath and nervous Republicans offering tentative defenses, the story quickly dominated Washington. [Need a refresher on the basic facts of the case? Noah Bierman wrote this helpful Q and A. And Sarah Wire wrote this about why Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Vista) has gone further than other Republicans in calling for an independent investigation.]
By Thursday afternoon, Sessions had announced his decision to step aside from any further involvement in the investigation of Russian interference in last years presidential election.
In one sense, Sessions and the administration escaped the storm with little damage Justice Department rules made clear that even without the Kislyak meetings, the attorney general sooner or later was going to have to recuse himself from the case.
Sessions himself summed up the reason succinctly: I should not be involved in investigating a campaign I had a role in, he said.
The recusal decision fended off much worse outcomes for the administration blunting calls for an independent counsel to lead the investigation or for Sessions resignation. Losing him would have been a huge blow.
Still, the incident clearly did damage. Beyond blotting out the presidents speech, it added more impetus to Democratic calls for a free-ranging congressional investigation into what Russia did in the election and whether any Trump associates colluded with Moscow.
[Among the Trump associates whose name keeps popping up is a Russian-born businessman named Felix Sater with a complex past. Joe Tanfani and David Cloud took a close look at a man who has hovered near Trump for years and whose connections have intrigued investigators.]
Sessions statements also damaged his reputation.
All of which raises the question: Why didnt Sessions simply disclose the meetings with Kislyak in the first place?
The attorney generals explanation on Thursday that he was taken aback by the question he was asked by Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) and responded too hastily left a lot unanswered.
To start, Frankens question, about what Sessions would do if he discovered that any of Trumps associates had been communicating with the Russians during the campaign, hardly came out of left field. By the time of Sessions confirmation hearing, on Jan. 10, the issue of Russian involvement in the campaign had been a matter of heated public debate for at least two months.
The hearing came less than two weeks after President Obama had expelled 35 Russian diplomats and imposed other sanctions to punish Russia for its actions during the election.
And even if Sessions was caught off guard by the question, he had two opportunities to correct the misleading impression he provided the Judiciary committee: Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) sent Sessions written follow-up questions, and witnesses in confirmation hearings always have a period of time to correct the official record after a hearing. Thats done precisely in order to take care of situations in which a momentary lapse causes a witness to misstate an important fact.
Sessions could have told the committee what his spokesperson, Sarah Flores, said on Wednesday night that as a senator, he had met with two dozen ambassadors during 2016, and Kislyak was one of them. That would have generated some headlines, of course, but they would have been far milder than what happened this week.
Sessions failure to straightforwardly account for his meetings is where his conduct resembles Flynns. The former national security advisor met with Kislyak on Dec. 29, the day the Obama sanctions were announced. When the fact of that meeting became public in a Washington Post column on Jan. 12, Flynn misled his colleagues about what he discussed. He stuck to his false story for weeks until news reports left Trump little choice but to fire him.
In both cases, the known facts leave a key question unanswered: If nothing nefarious happened in the meetings and no evidence indicates otherwise why dissemble?
Neither Sessions nor Flynn, nor the White House, has provided a convincing explanation of their actions, so were left to speculate. Whatever the answer whether hubris, inattention to detail, lack of experienced staff or a desire to skirt the truth when possible senior Trump administration have now made questions about their judgment and truthfulness relevant twice in a month. Its a risky pattern.
A KEY ADVISOR AND A WEB OF FORMER AIDES
As Mike Memoli and Brian Bennett reported, Sessions is more than just the administrations chief legal officer, hes one of Trumps closest and most influential advisors on a wide range of policies. To see why Sessions has such influence, check out this visualization of how a network of his former aides is spread across key parts of the administration.
His influence is especially strong on immigration, the issue on which Sessions had the most impact in his final years in the Senate. Trumps key aide, domestic policy advisor Stephen Miller, came from Sessions staff.
As Bennett wrote, Miller and Trumps chief strategist, Steve Bannon, believe that current high levels of immigration are dangerous for the U.S. The ultimate goal of the immigration policies they have pushed is to reverse long-standing trends that have made the U.S. less white and more ethnically diverse.
Meantime, Trump, who sees himself as a deal maker, has been suggesting he might be angling for a deal on immigration. Bennett sifted through the presidents recent statements to look at the possibilities.
And as we await the administrations new version of its travel ban, David Savage examined whats likely to be the next major legal battleground over the administrations immigration policies: Trumps effort to put hundreds of thousands of deportation proceedings on a fast track.
OBAMACARE 101
The debate over how or whether to repeal Obamas signature healthcare law is moving toward a potentially decisive state. House Republicans plan to unveil their proposal next week.
As Noam Levey wrote, the plans include some potential political time bombs for the GOP. That realization has started to spread on Capitol Hill, making the Republican majority increasingly nervous about the whole idea.
Congressional Republicans are anxiously looking to the White House to publicly provide them both leadership and a heat shield on the issue. So far, theyre not seeing much, which has increased their anxiety level, Lisa Mascaro reported.
As the debate heats up, Levey has been writing a series of pieces explaining key issues. This weeks installment: What might happen to benefits for millions of Americans on Medicaid?
DISMANTLING ENVIRONMENTAL RULES
The new EPA chief, Scott Pruitt, is moving quickly to start dismantling key environmental policies. At the top of the list, Evan Halper wrote, is a rule designed to protect streams and wetlands.
Farm groups, developers and other business interests have long argued the rule would give Washington too much power over local land-use decisions. But as Halper noted, dismantling the rule could take years.
Halper also looked at a special election coming up in Georgia that could be an important barometer of Trumps standing with voters. The election will fill the vacancy left in Congress because of Tom Prices appointment to be secretary of Health and Human Services. Democrats believe they have a shot in Prices old district, a suburban area that has long been Republican, but which has soured on Trump.
ALL THE PRESIDENTS TWEETS
Twitter has long been Trumps favored means of pushing his message. Were compiling all of Trumps tweets. Its a great resource. Take a look.
LOGISTICS
That wraps up this week. My colleague Sarah Wire will be back Monday with the weekday edition of Essential Politics. Until then, keep track of all the developments in national politics and the Trump administration with our Essential Washington blog, at our Politics page and on Twitter @latimespolitics.
Send your comments, suggestions and news tips to politics@latimes.com.
If you like this newsletter, tell your friends to sign up.
David.lauter@latimes.com
@davidlauter
Its a time of looming tuition bumps, soaring student debt and a national debate on free college thats lingered beyond the 2016 presidential race and lawmakers in Sacramento have taken notice.
California legislators have introduced at least three dozen bills this year that aim to make college more affordable, including proposals to freeze tuition, demystify student loan statements and make textbooks cheaper.
The breadth of ideas points to an unusual degree of attention being paid in the Capitol to higher education costs.
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I dont think weve ever seen more focus on college affordability than we do now, said Debbie Cochrane, vice president of the Institute for College Access & Success, a nonprofit advocacy group.
The attention from lawmakers reflects a growing worry from their constituents over the price of a higher education.
A survey in December from the Public Policy Institute of California found that 57% of adults believed affordability was a big problem for the states public colleges and universities. Nearly three-quarters of those polled said they believed the high costs were preventing qualified and motivated students from going to college.
Mark Baldassare, president of PPIC, said the sentiments could be seen as echoes of the 2016 presidential race, particularly the Democratic primary in which Bernie Sanders made calls for tuition-free public colleges and universities a centerpiece of his campaign.
This was a year in which people heard a lot of things about the need for college and the need for free community college, Baldassare said.
The issue became even more visible as California institutions considered their first tuition hikes in six years. University of California regents approved a 2.5% tuition increase in January. California State University trustees are examining boosting tuition on their campuses by 5%.
In response, Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) introduced AB 393, a measure that would freeze Cal State and community college tuition, and encourage UC campuses to do the same.
Other legislators want to increase state-funded aid such as Cal Grants, a three-tiered system that comprises a mix of entitlements for certain eligible students and competitive awards.
Californias existing aid programs currently top $2 billion, according to the Legislative Analysts Office. More than 60% of Cal State students have their full tuition covered, as do around half of UC and community college students.
Assemblyman Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) wants to eliminate community college tuition in the first year for all full-time students. Santiago said his proposal, AB 19, was inspired by his own background as the child of immigrant parents whose time at Moorpark College enabled him to transfer to UCLA.
There are a lot of students with histories and backgrounds like mine, Santiago said. Community college is really that one opportunity theyre going to have to make something out of their lives and share in the California dream.
The affordability debate extends beyond the sticker price of tuition. The spate of proposals this year reflects a more holistic conversation about the numerous living expenses and equipment costs that are part of a college education.
Its almost taken as a given that the cost of college was about a lot more than tuition. I dont know if we wouldve had the same discussion years ago in the same way, said Jacob Jackson, a higher education research fellow at PPIC.
The broader focus is a good thing, Jackson added. Tuition is about 30 to 40% of attending public college in California.
Prompted by a request last year by Assemblyman Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), the Legislative Analysts Office examined what it would take to make Cal State and UC schools entirely debt-free for students. Researchers estimated it would take $3.3 billion to ensure students would not have to take on debt for tuition or living expenses.
While no measures this year take such a sweeping step, several legislators seek to chip away at some of the costs associated with college. One measure, AB 960 by Assemblyman William P. Brough (R-Dana Point), would exempt higher education textbooks from sales tax. And Assemblyman David Chiu (D-San Francisco) plans to push for emergency financial assistance for students to offset unexpected housing and other living costs.
Other lawmakers hope to assist those already burdened with debt. With SB 674, state Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) wants to create a public program for refinancing high-interest private student loans. A measure by Assemblyman Ian Calderon (D-Whittier), AB 1178, would require colleges to send students personalized reports detailing their cumulative loan amounts and the percentage of federal borrowing limits they have reached.
Calderon, 31, said student loans which have topped $1 trillion nationally are the top policy concern for millennial lawmakers like himself.
Were just watching a financial crisis getting ready to smack us in the face, he said.
Creative policymaking aside, legislators acknowledge the college affordability dilemma largely boils down to money in the state budget.
Theres been a relentless disinvestment in higher education, said Allen, who chairs the Senate Education Committee. Its a travesty.
Gov. Jerry Browns initial budget plan unveiled in January modestly boosts overall higher education spending. But it would phase out a scholarship geared toward middle-class families, arguing that aid should be directed toward Californias neediest students. The spending plan also would decrease Cal Grants for private institutions by 11%.
With the states fiscal outlook potentially strained, advocates say lawmakers will have to wrestle with what kind of aid programs should be prioritized a debate that is significantly more nuanced than the rallying cry of free college.
The things that are going to help students most are not the things that are easiest to grasp. A good policy is often thorny, Cochrane said.
Attention on the problem is a really good thing, she added. But its incumbent upon all of us to work toward what are the real solutions and not just the soundbites.
melanie.mason@latimes.com
Follow @melmason on Twitter for the latest on California politics.
Heres what would it take to give California students a debt-free college education
UC regents approve first tuition increase after six-year freeze; some students infuriated
If Brown phases out college scholarships for middle-class students, stressed parents wonder: How are we going to make this work?
Adam Schiff views documents White House says back Trump surveillance claim By Michael A. Memoli (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / Associated Press) Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) traveled to the White House Friday to view documents President Trump has said partially vindicate his claim that his predecessor ordered surveillance of him during the campaign. In a statement, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee said he was told they were precisely the same materials viewed previously by the committees chairman, Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare), which Schiff said should now be shared with the full panel membership. Nothing I could see today warranted a departure from the normal review procedures, Schiff said, adding that he could not discuss the contents of the documents, which remain classified. Nunes was shown the documents last week by White House officials surreptitiously, then announced to reporters the next day that he needed urgently to go to the White House to brief Trump about them. Schiff, in his statement, said that the White House has yet to explain why senior White House staff apparently shared these materials with but one member of either [Intelligence] committee, only for their contents to be briefed back to the White House. Schiff also had a brief but cordial meeting with Trump during his time at the White House, a spokesman said. White House spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters earlier Friday that other Democrats have been invited to the White House to view the materials, which he said would shed light on their investigation. Both the House and Senate Intelligence Committees are conducting separate reviews of Russian interference into the 2016 election; Trump has asked each panel to also probe his own claim that his predecessor engaged in wire tapping of his phones at Trump Tower during the campaign, an assertion that has been denied by Nunes as well as the heads of the FBI and intelligence agencies. Facebook
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Mnuchin regrets plugging The Lego Batman Movie, pledges to exercise greater caution in the future By Jim Puzzanghera Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Friday told a top government ethics official he should not have publicly plugged The Lego Batman Movie a film in which he has a financial stake and promised to exercise greater caution in the future. I take very seriously my ethical responsibilities as a presidential appointee and the head of the Department of the Treasury, Mnuchin wrote to Walter Shaub, director of the U.S. Office of Government Ethics. On Monday, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) asked Shaub to determine whether Mnuchin had committed an ethics violation last week when he discussed the movie during an event hosted by the Axios news website that aired on C-SPAN2. Read More Facebook
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Rep. Adam Schiff says its too early to consider an immunity deal for Michael Flynn By Associated Press The top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee says its too early to consider an immunity deal for President Trumps former national security advisor. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) says that Michael Flynn even discussing possible immunity in exchange for protection from prosecution is a grave and momentous step because of the seniority of his former position. Schiff says the House Intelligence Committee is interested in hearing Flynns story, but there would have to be coordination with the Senate Intelligence Committee and the Justice Department on the terms. The House and Senate intelligence committees and the FBI are investigating Russias meddling in the 2016 election. The investigation includes scrutiny of Flynns ties with Russia. Read More Facebook
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Trump administration admonishes California chief justice over claim that agents are stalking immigrants By Del Quentin Wilber U.S. Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions (Mark Wilson / Getty Images) The Trump administration on Friday fired back at Californias top judge, disputing her characterization this month that federal immigration agents were stalking courthouses to make arrests. In a letter to Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye, leaders of Trumps Justice Department and Department of Homeland Security objected to her description of federal agents conduct. As the chief judicial officer of the state of California, your characterization of federal law enforcement is particularly troubling, wrote Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions and Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly, objecting to Cantil-Sakauyes use of the word stalking. They said agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) were using courthouses to arrest immigrants in the U.S. illegally, in part, because California and some of its local jurisdictions prohibit their officials from cooperating with federal agencies in detaining such immigrants under most conditions. Sessions and Kelly told Californias top judge that she should consider taking her concerns to Gov. Jerry Brown and the cities and counties that limit local law enforcements involvement with immigration agents. Cantil-Sakauye, a former prosecutor who rose through the judicial ranks as an appointee of Republican governors, said through a spokesman that she appreciated the Trump administrations admission that they are in state courthouses making federal arrests. Making arrests at courthouses, in my view, undermines public safety because victims and witnesses will fear coming to courthouses to help enforce the law, she said Friday. She expressed disappointment that courthouses, given local and state public safety concerns, were not listed as sensitive areas offlimits to agents. Federal policy lists schools, churches and hospitals as sensitive areas. The letter from the Justice Department officials defended the arrests of immigrants at courthouses. By apprehending suspects after they have passed through security screening at courthouses, federal agents are less likely to encounter anyone who is armed, the letter said. The arrest of individuals by ICE officers and agents is predicated on investigation and targeting of specific persons who have been identified by ICE and other law enforcement agencies as subject to arrest, they wrote. Cantil-Sakauye had asked the Trump administration on March 16 to stop immigration agents from seeking immigrants at the states courthouses. Courthouses should not be used as bait in the necessary enforcement of our countrys immigration laws, she wrote in a letter to Sessions and Kelly. Her letter did not say which courthouses had been the location of such stalking, but judges and lawyers in Southern California have complained of seeing immigration agents posted near courts. She said she feared the practice would erode public trust in the state courts. Sessions and Kelly urged Cantil-Sakauye to speak to Brown and other officials who have enacted policies that occasionally necessitate ICE officers and agents to make arrests at courthouses and other public places. Facebook
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Back in the spotlight, Hillary Clinton takes aim at Trumps budget By Evan Halper Hillary Clinton stepped back into the spotlight this week after laying relatively low since the election, and she had some advice for President Trump: Tear up the White House budget plan. Clinton was at the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security to bestow an award named in her honor to Colombian leaders who helped bring an end to war in that country and elevate the role of women in the peace process. She spoke of the progress the world has made in advancing womens rights since she spoke forcefully on the issue two decades ago when the U.N. gathered world leaders to address it in Beijing. But she warned that progress is threatened by Trump. We are seeing signals of a shift that should alarm us all, Clinton said. This administrations proposed cuts to international health, development and diplomacy would be a blow to women and children and a grave mistake for our country. Clinton then raised the letter signed by 120 former generals and admirals beseeching the Trump administration not to make the cuts. These distinguished men and women who have served in uniform recognize that turning our back on diplomacy wont make our country safer. It will undermine our security and our standing in the world. A lot has changed since Clinton was on the campaign trail, but some things about her style on the stump havent. She pulled out a favorite line from last year as she began to talk about a study that backed up her point about the damage Trumps budget plan could do. Here I go again, Clinton said to whooping and cheering from an audience of mostly female students, talking about research evidence and facts. Facebook
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Seeking a way forward, Trump increasingly finds himself at odds with his own party By Michael A. Memoli (Evan Vucci / Associated Press ) President Trump won his office in spite of the best efforts of some in his party. Now, the tenuous nature of the bonds between Trump and the GOP are increasingly on public display as the president openly feuds with conservatives and White House officials debate whether to reach out to Democrats in order to restart his domestic agenda. The latest and strongest evidence came Thursday as Trump escalated his political battle against the members of the House Freedom Caucus, the conservative lawmakers who helped block the healthcare bill he backed. Early in the morning, he said on Twitter that the caucus would hurt the entire Republican agenda if they dont get on the team. We must fight them, & Dems, in 2018! he added. It was an extraordinary message, suggesting that Trump might try to back challengers in primaries against lawmakers of his own party something few presidents have tried, none with much success. Read More Facebook
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Tillerson tells NATO allies to pay more, do more to fight terrorism By Catherine Stupp Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Friday promised NATO allies that the United States will stand by their side but also expected them to spend more on defense and do more to fight terrorism. Tillerson participated in a day of discussions with foreign ministers from the 27 other NATO member nations, his first with the full roster of allies, who were sent scrambling last week to accommodate the top U.S. diplomat after he said he could not attend the meeting originally planned for early April. The United States is committed to ensuring NATO has the capabilities to support our collective defense. We understand that a threat against one of us is a threat against all of us, Tillerson said. But, he added, as President Trump has made clear, it is no longer sustainable for the U.S. to maintain a disproportionate share of NATOs defense expenditures. The United States is amping up pressure on NATO members to increase their defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product, in line with a 2014 agreement among the alliances 28 member countries to meet the target by 2024. Only five NATO countries meet the 2% threshold. The U.S. spends 3.61% of its GDP on defense, more than any other member of the alliance. Tillerson said that if countries have not met the 2% spending goal by the end of the year, they should at least have a concrete plan that clearly articulates how, with annual milestone progress commitments, the pledge will be fulfilled. Pressure to meet that strict deadline is likely to upset some allies. German Vice Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel told reporters before Fridays meeting that he thinks it would be completely unrealistic for Germany to bring its military defense spending up to 2% of GDP. I dont know any politician in Germany who thinks that this would be reachable or desirable, Gabriel said. Germany is increasing its military spending this year to $39 billion, or 1.2% of its GDP. Gabriel rejected the Trump administrations focus on military expenditures, arguing that humanitarian aid and Germanys spending to take in refugees should be considered part of the defense budget. Tillerson also called on allies to take a greater role in the fight against terrorism. NATO can and should do more, he said. Fighting terrorism is the top national security priority for the United States, as it should be for all of us. Tillersons earlier announcement that he would skip the meeting struck a nerve among the alliance members, coming at a sensitive time when tensions between the Trump administration and NATO allies have soared. The schedule change caused an awkward protocol shuffle, with a handful of foreign ministers unable to make it to Brussels. What was supposed to be a two-day meeting was compressed into half of a day. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg tried to cast optimism on the last-minute schedule change, calling it a sign of the strong transatlantic unity and flexibility of our alliance that we were able to find a date. The foreign ministers meeting is crucial because it lays the groundwork for a NATO summit with heads of state in May, which will be President Trumps first overseas trip since taking office. Tillersons day of talks at NATO headquarters in Brussels follows visits from Defense Secretary James Mattis and Vice President Mike Pence, who attempted to dispel fears that the Trump administration will seek to loosen ties with the alliance. Trump called NATO obsolete in an interview published days before his inauguration. He later insisted, during German Chancellor Angela Merkels visit to the White House earlier this month, that the U.S. will maintain its strong commitment to the alliance. Tillerson arrived in Brussels on Friday morning after meeting Thursday in Ankara, Turkey, with that countrys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu to discuss terrorism and Syria, though the leaders failed to reach an agreement on how to combat Islamic State. Facebook
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Trump weighs in on Michael Flynns request for immunity President Trumps former national security advisor, retired Army Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, is seeking immunity from prosecution in return for testifying to the House and Senate intelligence committees, a congressional aide said. The development was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. Gen. Flynn certainly had a story to tell, and he very much wants to tell it, should the circumstances permit, his lawyer, Robert Kelner, said in a statement. No reasonable person, who has the benefit of advice from counsel, would submit to questioning in such a highly politicized, witch-hunt environment without assurances from unfair prosecution. On Friday morning, Trump tweeted his support for Flynns request. Flynn was ousted as Trumps national security advisor last month after news reports disclosed that he had misled Vice President Mike Pence about phone conversations with Sergey Kislyak, Russias ambassador to the U.S. The calls were picked up by U.S. surveillance targeting the Russian envoy, and a description of the contents was leaked to the Washington Post after the Justice Department warned the White House that Flynn could be subject to blackmail. Read More Facebook
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Former national security advisor Michael Flynn seeks immunity By David S. Cloud President Trumps former national security advisor, retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, has been seeking immunity from prosecution in return for testifying to the House and Senate intelligence committees, a congressional official confirmed Thursday. The negotiations were first reported by the Wall Street Journal. In a statement, Flynns lawyer, Robert Kelner, said Gen. Flynn certainly had a story to tell and he very much wants to tell it, should the circumstances permit. No reasonable person, who has the benefit of advice from counsel, would submit to questioning in such a highly politicized, witch-hunt environment without assurances from unfair prosecution. Trump fired Flynn three weeks into the new administration after news reports disclosed that he had lied to White House colleagues, including Vice President Mike Pence, about his contacts with Sergey Kislyak, Russias ambassador to the U.S. In December, Flynn had telephone conversations with Kislyak in which he discussed sanctions that the Obama administration had recently imposed on Russia to punish Moscow for its interference in the 2016 presidential election. Flynn denied to Pence and other officials that he had discussed the sanctions with Kislyak. So far, the committees, which are investigating Russian interference and whether anyone close to Trump colluded with Moscow, have not taken Flynn up on his offer, the Journal reported. Facebook
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Trump administration appeals Hawaii judges order against travel ban By Jaweed Kaleem The Department of Justice has appealed a Hawaii court order that brought President Trumps travel ban to a national halt. The government has argued that the president was well within his authority to restrict travel from six Muslim-majority countries and put a pause on refugee resettlement. The appeal Thursday to the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals came a day after U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson in Honolulu refused to dismiss his temporary block of the travel ban that he issued on March 15. With the appeal, the government is now fighting to reinstate the travel ban in two appeals courts on opposite ends of the country. That increases the likelihood that one of the cases will make it to the U.S. Supreme Court. Earlier this month, the Department of Justice appealed a Maryland district judges order against the travel ban to the U.S. 4th District Court of Appeals in Richmond, Va. Both rulings in Hawaii and Maryland said Trumps executive order discriminated against Muslims. Watson and U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang in Maryland cited Trumps campaign promises to suspend Muslim travel to the U.S. as proof of his orders anti-Muslim bias. The Hawaii ruling is broader than the Maryland one. It blocks a 90-day pause on travel to the U.S. from nationals of six majority-Muslim countries and a 120-day moratorium on new refugee resettlement. The Maryland ruling only halted the ban on travel into the U.S. by citizens of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. The 9th Circuit, which has jurisdiction over nine Western states, is the same court where a panel of three judges denied a government request last month to reverse ruling against the first travel ban by a federal judge in Washington state. Trump, in turn, lambasted the bad court and signed a new executive order on travel on March 6 that was modified in an attempt to survive court challenges. Facebook
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Senate heads for nuclear option if Democrats filibuster Gorsuch nomination By Lisa Mascaro One of the Senates most serious jobs confirming the presidents choice for a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court has devolved into a game of political chicken. Senators are heading toward an institution-defining showdown next week as Democrats promise to try to block President Trumps nominee, Judge Neil M. Gorsuch, with a filibuster, a rarely seen maneuver for high court appointments. Republicans are threatening to respond by changing long-standing Senate rules to circumvent the 60 votes that would be needed to overcome a filibuster. Instead they would allow confirmation with a simple majority. The outcome has the potential to not only shape the future of the Supreme Court which has been without a full bench since the sudden death of Justice Antonin Scalia last year it also could crush one final vestige of bipartisanship in the Senate, altering the upper chamber for years to come. The battle over the Supreme Court seat was always expected to be a partisan affair in todays heated political climate. But the polemics intensified after the Republican majority denied President Obamas nominee, Judge Merrick Garland, a confirmation hearing ahead of last years presidential election. Read More Facebook
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Scalias seat has been vacant longer than any Supreme Court justices in nearly 50 years By Colleen Shalby (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) Its been more than 400 days since Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalias death left his seat vacant. With Republicans having blocked a vote on then-President Obamas nominee, Judge Merrick Garland, and with Senate Democrats now making plans to filibuster President Trumps nominee, Judge Neil M. Gorsuch, it could take even longer to replace Scalia. Its not unheard of for a justices seat to remain empty for a considerable amount of time. Pew Research Center did the math and found that the longest gap was 841 days, in the mid-1840s, from the time of Henry Baldwins death to his replacement Robert Griers confirmation. But the last time in recent history that a vacancys duration in this range occurred was after Abe Fortas resigned in 1969. It took 391 days to fill that seat, an interval that ended in 1970 when Harry Blackmun the justice who authored the courts landmark opinion in Roe vs. Wade was confirmed. Blackmun was President Nixons third pick to fill that seat. The second-longest vacancy in recent years occurred in 1988. It took 237 days to fill Lewis Powells seat after he retired, with Anthony Kennedy succeeding him. Its been 58 days and counting since Trump nominated Gorsuch. Heres how his waiting time from nomination to confirmation stacks up against the current justices: Elena Kagan: 87 days
Sonia Sotomayor: 66 days
Samuel A. Alito Jr.: 82 days
John G. Roberts Jr.: 23 days
Stephen G. Breyer: 73 days
Ruth Bader Ginsburg: 50 days
Clarence Thomas: 99 days
Anthony M. Kennedy: 65 days If Gorsuch is confirmed soon, he wont start considering cases until the courts new term in October.
And if hes not confirmed? Trump would nominate another successor to Scalia theres no limit on how many times he can do that. Until Scalias seat is filled, lower courts decisions serve as tie-breakers. Facebook
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Sens. Manchin and Heitkamp become first Democrats to announce support for Gorsuch By David Savage Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota became the first Democrats to say they will vote for Judge Neil Gorsuch and not support the effort to filibuster his confirmation to the Supreme Court. Their announcements came as no surprise. Both are centrists who have to run for reelection next year in states that voted overwhelmingly for Trump. After considering his record, watching his testimony in front of the Judiciary Committee and meeting with him twice, I will vote to confirm him to be the ninth justice on the Supreme Court, Manchin said. I have found him to be an honest and thoughtful man.... I have not found any reasons why this jurist should not be a Supreme Court justice. Heitkamp said she was impressed with Gorsuchs record as a judge. This vote does not diminish how disturbed I am by what the Republicans did to Judge [Merrick] Garland, referring to the GOP-led Senates refusal last year to consider President Obamas choice to fill the seat of the late Justice Antonin Scalia. But I was taught that two wrongs dont make a right, she said. The Republican majority in the Senate needs six more Democrats to join with them if they hope to stop the expected filibuster of President Trumps Supreme Court nominee. It takes 60 votes to end the debate under the Senates current rules. But the 52 Republicans may vote to simply eliminate this requirement if the Democrats stand firm against Gorsuch. On Monday, the Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to approve Gorsuch on a party line vote and send the nomination to the Senate floor. A final vote is expected April 7. Facebook
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White House invites lawmakers to see intelligence material after New York Times report By Noah Bierman The White House has invited House and Senate intelligence committee chairs to review documents that it says were recently discovered by national security staff that could help determine whether information gathered about American citizens was mishandled. White House spokesman Sean Spicer would not say whether these are the same documents that Rep. Devin Nunes, the Tulare Republican who chairs the House intelligence committee, said he reviewed last week. Nunes has refused to identify his sources. Some saw his disclosure as an attempt to give credence to President Trumps widely refuted claim that President Obama had ordered wiretaps on his phone during the campaign. Nunes said the material he reviewed suggested that intelligence agencies had incidentally collected information about Trump or his associates. He has declined to be more specific or share the information with the committee. But the New York Times reported Thursday, citing unnamed sources, that two White House officials helped Nunes get access to the documents. And now the same information may be provided to other members of the Intelligence committee. In a letter to the bipartisan group of intelligence leaders sent Thursday, White House Counsel Donald McGhan said administration lawyers would supervise the review given the sensitivity of the documents to protect the extremely sensitive intelligence sources and methods. The letter calls on the committee to investigate the possibility that classified information was inappropriately gathered and handled and whether civil liberties of American citizens were violated. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank), the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, told reporters that he welcomed the chance to review the materials, though he said he would be obligated to share them with the rest of his committee. More troubling to Schiff, he said, was the cloak and dagger stuff and circuitous route that the White House national security staff appears to have used to disseminate the materials in that secret meeting with Nunes. Schiff said White House staff may have been trying to launder information through the committee, rather than simply providing it directly to the president. If that was designed to hide the origin of the materials, that raises profound questions about just what the White House is doing, Schiff said. We need to get to the bottom of whether this was some sort of stratagem by the White House. In a letter to McGhan, Schiff said answering the White Houses questions would require asking intelligence agencies how the information in the documents was gathered. I hope you will confirm to the committee whether these materials are the same as those first shared with Nunes, Schiff wrote. 2:11: This story was updated with staff reporting Facebook
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Trumps team: A network of ties to Russia By Angelica Quintero The FBI is investigating possible coordination between people associated with the Trump campaign and Russian authorities during the 2016 election. The U.S. intelligence community has said it is confident that the Russian government directed hacking operations and intended to interfere with the U.S. election process. Take a look at how some high-profile people have been drawn into the investigation. See the graphic Facebook
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Former RNC official is first to depart senior West Wing staff By Michael A. Memoli A former top Republican National Committee official and ally of White House chief of staff Reince Priebus will depart her West Wing post in the first significant shake-up of President Trumps senior staff. Politico first reported that Katie Walsh, the deputy White House chief of staff, will leave to take on an advisory position with political groups that were formed to support the presidents agenda from the outside. Walsh had served as chief of staff at the RNC when Priebus was party chair. At the White House, she served in a similar capacity under Priebus, tasked with overseeing the senior staff and the scheduling operation. Though White House officials denied the move was a signal of disharmony within the senior ranks, her departure spoke to issues dogging the new administration a top-heavy operation in the West Wing and also the inability of the president to sustain the kind of grassroots support for his agenda that proved key to his electoral win. It was abundantly clear we didnt have air cover when it came to the calls coming into lawmakers, and nobody can fix this problem like Katie Walsh, Priebus told reporters later, according to Time. Facebook
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Putin: Read my lips, there was no Russian meddling in U.S. vote By Ann M. Simmons Russian President Vladimir Putin meets with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto during the International Arctic Forum in Arkhangelsk, Russia, on Thursday. (Sergei Karpukhim / AFP/Getty Images) Calling the accusations lies, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday denied that Moscow meddled in last years U.S. elections. Read my lips, no, Putin said during a panel moderated by CNBC, according to a report on the news agencys website. All those things are fictional, illusory and provocations, lies, the Russian president said. All these are used for domestic American political agendas. The anti-Russian card is played by different political forces inside the United States to trade on that and consolidate their positions inside. Putins comments came as the Senate Intelligence Committee was set to begin a hearing entitled Disinformation: A Primer in Russian Active Measures and Influence Campaigns, which will focus on understanding the method of Russias active disinformation campaign and assess the extent of Moscows interference. FBI Director James Comey confirmed earlier this month that his agency was investigating Russias intrusion into the 2016 poll and whether there was any collusion between Moscow and President Trumps campaign. Read More Facebook
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Trump levels extraordinary threat against GOP conservatives; Ryan says he understands presidents frustration By Noah Bierman House Speaker Paul D. Ryan commiserated with President Trump Thursday after the president launched a Twitter assault on the group of rebellious Republicans known as the Freedom Caucus. I understand the frustration, I share the frustration, Ryan told reporters Thursday, when asked to respond to Trumps threat to campaign against fellow Republicans. Freedom Caucus members, who back limited government and have defined themselves in opposition to the Washington establishment, have been a major headache for GOP leaders. Ever since the Republicans took control of the House in 2010, conservative refusal to back key bills to fund government agencies has forced GOP leaders to negotiate with Democrats for the votes they need. Freedom Caucus members helped lead the charge against former Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio). The caucus was blamed by many Republicans last week for torpedoing the leaderships plan, backed by Trump, to make significant changes to Obamacare. Still, Trumps threat to fight them in the 2018 elections was an extraordinary step. Trump had previously made electoral threats against wayward members of his party, but Thursdays tweet was especially direct, threatening to treat them the same way as Democrats. The Freedom Caucus will hurt the entire Republican agenda if they don't get on the team, & fast. We must fight them, & Dems, in 2018! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 30, 2017 Freedom Caucus members have begun pushing back aggressively. A spokeswoman for the group argued on Twitter that Trump did not have his facts right and that Republican moderates were equally responsible for sinking the healthcare bill. View Twitter post Finding Trump supporters to challenge Republicans in a primary would be hard and could further thrust the GOP into civil war. Trump, despite low poll numbers nationally, remains popular in core Republican districts. Many members of Congress, however, ran ahead of him in their districts in the last election. The president has also suggested he might be open to cutting deals with Democrats, something the White House has discussed but not followed through on. That would also be difficult, given the rancor on the left. Ryan said Thursday that the best path is for Republicans to come together on healthcare and other issues About 90% of our conference is for this bill to repeal and replace Obamcare, and about 10% are not. And thats not enough to pass a bill, he said. What I am encouraging our members to do is to keep talking with each other until we can get the consensus to pass this bill. But its very understandable that the president is frustrated that we havent gotten to where we need to go, because this is something that we all said we would do. Facebook
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Pence casts tie-breaking vote to advance bill that would let states withhold federal funds from Planned Parenthood By Lisa Mascaro Republicans needed Vice President Mike Pence to cast a tie-breaking vote Thursday in the Senate to advance legislation that rolls back rules preventing states from withholding certain federal funds to Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers. With opposition from two Republican women, Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Republicans did not have enough votes with their slim 52-seat majority to advance the bill. Pence, a longtime opponent of abortion, arrived to cast the vote breaking the 50-50 tie and will be expected to do so later Thursday on final passage. We just saw a historic moment, said Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) It is a sad day for the United States Senate. The measure rolls back a regulation finalized at the end of President Obamas administration that explicitly prevented states from denying federal Title X family planning funds to clinics, like Planned Parenthood, that also provide abortion services. Under longstanding practice, no federal funds can be used for abortions, but federal family planning money can flow to the clinics to provide other healthcare services. Some Republican-led state governments had been moving in recent years to choke off Title X funds from any clinics that offered abortion service. The Obama rule sought to prohibit such practices. The bill Thursday, sponsored by Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), has already cleared the House. It is part of a series of bills being passed by Congress under the so-called Congressional Review Act, which allows federal regulations put in place during the final days of the previous administration to be undone by simple majority passage. Passage by the Senate later Thursday would send it to the White House for President Trumps signature. Busy day in D.C., but always happy to make time to meet visitors touring the Capitol. pic.twitter.com/4q6JG8wP0E Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) March 30, 2017 Facebook
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Senate committee narrowly approves Acostas nomination to be Labor secretary By Jim Puzzanghera (Manuel Balce Ceneta / AP) A Senate committee on Thursday narrowly approved R. Alexander Acosta to be Labor secretary, moving to fill one of President Trumps few remaining vacant Cabinet posts. The nomination of Acosta, a law school dean and former Justice Department official, was approved by a 12-11 vote by the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. All of the panels Republicans supported the nomination; all of the Democrats were opposed. If confirmed in a full Senate vote, which is expected soon, Acosta will be the only Latino in Trumps Cabinet. A date for the final vote hasnt been set. Read More Facebook
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Follow the money and the trail of dead Russians, expert urges senators By Del Quentin Wilber (Susan Walsh / Associated Press) The Senate Intelligence Committee hearing Thursday into Russian efforts to influence the November elections has been a long history lesson, tracing Moscows decades-long efforts to use misinformation to undermine democracies. But Clinton Watts, of the Center for Cyber and Homeland Security at George Washington University, provided a roadmap to better understanding the Kremlins efforts. He urged senators and the U.S. government to follow the money to figure out how misinformation websites and social media outlets are being funded. While the Russians conducted their hacking in the Internets shadows, their efforts to influence the election was hardly a secret, he said. You can hack stuff and be covert, but you cant influence and be covert, he said. You have to ultimately show your hand. And thats why we have been able to discover it online. The second way to trace Russian influence was more ominous: Follow the trail of dead Russians, he said. There have been more dead Russians in the past three months that are tied to this investigation, he added. They are dropping dead, even in Western countries. Watts didnt finish the thought but was likely referring to a spate of deaths of high-profile Russians, some of which appeared to be assassinations although others appear to have been from natural causes. With the daytime execution of a Russian politician in Ukraine last week, at least eight Russian politicians, activists, ambassadors and a former intelligence official have died since the U.S. election. Facebook
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Russia has stepped up efforts to influence elections, experts tell Senate panel By David S. Cloud (Susan Walsh / Associated Press) Moscow has stepped up its interference in U.S. and European elections, using social media, hacking and other tools to undermine public confidence and to raise doubts about the U.S as an ally, Russia experts told the Senate Intelligence Committee on Thursday. The committee was taking testimony from experts in Russian propaganda and intelligence operations as part of its investigation into Moscows meddling in the 2016 election. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), the top Democrat on the panel, emphasized that in addition to examining the broad topic of Russian efforts to influence the election, the panel also must seek to answer whether President Trumps campaign had contact with Russian officials last year, noting the the FBI has opened its own probe. I will not prejudge the outcome of our investigation. We are seeking to determine if there is an actual fire, but there is clearly a lot of smoke, Warner said. Dr. Eugene Rumer, Director of the Russia and Eurasia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, told the panel that Russian President Vladimir Putin probably viewed Moscows meddling in the U.S. election as an unqualified success. Facebook
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Tillerson meets Turkish officials to seek support for battle against Islamic State in Syria By Umar Farooq Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Thursday met for more than two hours with Turkeys president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, as they hoped to shore up troubled relations between their nations. Making his first trip to Turkey, Tillerson became the highest-ranking Trump administration official to hold a face-to-face session with Erdogan, an increasingly authoritarian leader who is also a NATO member and key ally in the fight against Islamic State in Syria. The meeting went longer than planned. Turkey and the United States disagree sharply on how to combat Islamic State: Washington supports Kurdish militias that Erdogan regards as an arm of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which Turkey and the U.S. consider a terrorist organization. Trying to fight against Daesh through terrorist organizations such as ... extensions of the PKK, would be like shooting yourself in the foot, Erdogans senior advisor, Ibrahim Kalin, said ahead of Thursdays meeting. Daesh is a pejorative Arabic acronym for Islamic State. Read More Facebook
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Hawaii judge extends national halt on Trumps travel ban By Jaweed Kaleem Donald Trump in San Diego in May. (John Gastaldo / San Diego Union-Tribune)) The Hawaii federal judge who brought President Trumps revised travel ban to a national halt this month extended his order blocking the bans enforcement. The move Wednesday sets the stage for the Justice Department to appeal to the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to reverse the ruling. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watsons original order halting the travel ban was issued March 15, a day before the ban was to go into effect, in the form of a temporary restraining order. At a hearing in Honolulu on Wednesday, federal lawyers asked Watson to either dismiss that order or narrow the restrictions to apply to fewer parts of the travel ban. Instead, Watson said he would turn the order into a preliminary injunction, which has the effect of extending his order blocking the travel ban for a longer period. Watson said he would keep intact the restrictions on the travel ban -- a block of its 90-day moratorium on travel to the U.S. from nationals of six majority-Muslim countries and its 120-day pause on new refugee resettlement. If the Justice Department appeals the case, it will be heard in the same court that upheld a national halt to Trumps first travel ban last month after a Seattle federal judge ruled against it. The administration has already appealed to the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals a Maryland judges more limited March 16 ruling that stopped enforcement of the travel orders country-specific ban. Both the Hawaii and Maryland judges found Trumps executive order to discriminate against Muslims. They used the presidents campaign statements promising to suspend Muslim travel to the U.S. as evidence of the orders anti-Muslim bias. Government lawyers have argued that the president is not singling out Muslims but instead acting within his power to restrict immigration and safeguard national security while better vetting procedures are developed to prevent potential terrorists from entering the U.S. Trump has said hell take the case over the travel ban to the U.S. Supreme Court. Facebook
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Ivanka Trump gets formal White House role, with ethics obligations but no pay By Michael A. Memoli (Brendan Smialowski / AFP-Getty Images) Ivanka Trump is taking on a more formal White House role with a title but not a paycheck a move intended to quell ethics concerns raised about her status in her fathers administration. In a statement, the White House noted that the presidents elder daughter already had an unprecedented role in the administration different from that of previous presidential children. She now will take the title of special advisor to the president, and therefore assume the same responsibility to abide by ethics standards that other federal employees have, the statement said. The decision demonstrates the administrations commitment to ethics, transparency and compliance, the administration said. Although Ivanka Trump already had a West Wing office as does her husband, senior advisor Jared Kushner she now will have increased opportunities to lead initiatives driving real policy benefits for the American public that would not have been available to her previously, a White House spokesman said. The announcement came on a day when President Trump sought to promote his administrations commitment to empowering women. He delivered remarks at an East Room event that included other top women in his Cabinet, including U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Small Business Administration head Linda McMahon. Ivanka Trump held a roundtable with female business owners earlier, Press Secretary Sean Spicer said. Earlier Wednesday, leading Senate Democrats sent a letter to the Office of Government Ethics raising concerns about the increasing, albeit unspecified position Ivanka Trump had held and the potential conflicts of interest that her government position might trigger with her personal businesses, including a retail clothing brand. The letter from Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tom Carper (D-Del.) asked the agency whether Trump would be required to divest herself of personal assets or if she could be required to recuse herself from certain functions. Trumps new position was first reported by the New York Times. In a statement to the paper, Trump said she was acting in response to ethics concerns, but noted she already had been voluntarily complying with all ethics rules. Facebook
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Russia inquiry one of the biggest congressional probes in decade, senators say By David Lauter Sens. Richard Burr (R-N.C.), right, and Mark Warner (D-Va.). (Susan Walsh / Associated Press) The Senate Intelligence Committees probe into Russian involvement in the 2016 U.S. presidential election will be one of the biggest investigations in years and has already involved an unprecedented level of cooperation between Congress and U.S. spy agencies, the panels chairman said Wednesday. At a Capitol Hill news conference, the committee chairman, Sen. Richard Burr of North Carolina, and its ranking Democrat, Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, emphasized the bipartisan nature of the panels efforts, drawing a determined, though unstated, contrast with the partisan dysfunction of a parallel investigation in the House. The committee will go wherever the intelligence leads us, Burr said. And he pointedly refused to endorse White House statements that investigators inevitably will find that there was no collusion between President Trumps campaign and the Russians. It would be crazy to try to draw any conclusions at this point, Burr said. We know that our challenge is to answer that question to the American people, Burr said, referring to the issue of Trumps involvement. Warner said he had confidence in Richard Burr to run a fair investigation and produce a bipartisan conclusion. Warner said Americans should not lose sight of what the investigation is about: An outside foreign adversary effectively tried to hijack the election and favor one candidate over the other. They didnt do it because it was in the best interest of the American people, he said. "[Russian President] Vladimir Putins goal is a weaker United States. The Russian action should be a concern of all Americans regardless of party affiliation, he added. The committee staff already has reviewed thousands of pages of intelligence documents and has begun scheduling interviews with a list of 20 preliminary witnesses, who will be questioned in private before the panel holds public hearings, Burr said. He strongly implied that one of the potential witnesses is retired Gen. Michael Flynn, who was fired from his post as national security advisor to Trump after the disclosure that he had misled Vice President Mike Pence and others about his contacts with Russias ambassador to the U.S. You would think less of us if the committee had not talked with Flynn, Burr told reporters. The witnesses, including Jared Kushner, the presidents son-in-law and advisor, will be questioned when the committee is ready, he said. Facebook
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Justice Department watchdog finds DEA cash seizure program may pose risk to civil liberties By Del Quentin Wilber A Ukiah, Calif., police officer works with a dog to search for drugs or cash in a motorists car on May 14, 2014. (Francine Orr/ Los Angeles Times) The way the Drug Enforcement Administration seizes cash and other assets may pose a risk to civil liberties, the Justice Departments internal watchdog reported Wednesday. The Justice Departments inspector general also determined that the agency does not measure or track how its asset seizure activities advance criminal investigations. Over the last decade, more than $28 billion has been seized through the departments asset forfeiture program. The effort and others in states have generated intense controversy in recent years, with critics contending that many seizures are unfair because some who lose their assets are never charged with crimes. Law enforcement officials, however, say that seizing property and cash is a key tool in disrupting criminal organizations and compensating the victims of crimes. Former Atty. Gen. Eric Holder in 2015 limited how state and local authorities can obtain seized funds by working with federal agents. In its report released Wednesday, the inspector general examined 100 cases in which the DEA seized cash. Eighty-five of the cases involved interdiction at transportation hubs, such as airports or parcel centers. Nearly 80 of those seizures resulted from the direct observation of agents or local police. The inspector general and the Justice Department have raised concerns in the past about such stops and searches, in part, due to the potential for racial profiling. Of the 100 cases, the DEA could verify that only 44 advanced ongoing investigations, led to a new investigation, or resulted in an arrest or prosecution, the inspector general found. When seizure and administrative forfeitures do not ultimately advance an investigation or prosecution, law enforcement creates the appearance, and risks the reality, that it is more interested in seizing and forfeiting cash than advancing an investigation or prosecution, the report said. The inspector general also found that the Justice Department does not provide enough training or require state and local officers working on federal task forces to be trained on asset forfeiture policies. The Justice Department responded in a letter to the inspector general that its analysis was flawed and its sample significantly underreported the amount of seized funds that are ultimately returned. In a statement, Justice Department spokeswoman Sarah Isgur Flores said, Asset forfeiture is a powerful and effective law enforcement tool, allowing the department to compensate victims, deprive criminals of the proceeds of their crimes, remove the tools of crime from criminal organizations, and deter crime. The department believes that the ongoing public debate about asset forfeiture is healthy, she added, but as outlined in our formal response, we strongly disagree with large swaths of this report and its flawed methodology that failed to address the essential role asset forfeiture plays combating some of the most sophisticated criminal actors and organizations, including terrorist financiers, cyber criminals, fraudsters, human traffickers, and drug cartels. 9:23 a.m.: This story was updated with Justice Department comment. Facebook
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Hoax. Con job. Chinese plot. Trump tweets have bashed climate science for years By Michael Finnegan President Trump signs an executive order Tuesday to rescind Obama administration policies on climate change. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / Associated Press) As President Trump moved to halt federal efforts against global warming on Tuesday, he avoided an important phrase: climate change. It was the same story during his campaign for president; Trump rarely mentioned it. When he pledged in May to withdraw the United States from the Paris treaty, a pact among nearly every nation on Earth to reduce the carbon emissions that cause global warming, it was one of the few occasions when Trump broached the topic. Trumps muted approach made political sense. To reject science is to risk alienating millions of moderate voters who support action to stop global warming. But before Trump started running for president, he often bluntly attacked climate science. Some highlights from his Twitter feed: Read More Facebook
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Supreme Court rules in favor of merchants who want to advertise credit card fees By David Savage Supreme Court rules on swipe fees (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press)) Merchants may soon have the right to tell customers that they will pay a surcharge if they use a credit card rather than pay with cash. The Supreme Court cast doubt Wednesday on laws in California, New York, Florida and seven other states that make it illegal for sellers to impose a surcharge on credit card sales. In a 8-0 decision, the justices said these laws regulate speech and may be challenged as violations of the 1st Amendment. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. said these laws do not prevent merchants from offering a discount for those who pay cash. Rather, they simply forbid disclosing that a posted price includes a surcharge of 2% to 3% for using a credit or debit card. Merchants want to pass the fees along only to their customers who choose to use credit cards, he said. They also want to make clear that they are not the bad guys -- that the credit card companies, not the merchants, are responsible for the higher prices. But the ruling Wednesday was only a partial victory for the five New York businesses, including a hair salon and an ice cream parlor in Brooklyn, that sued to challenge the ban on advertising or disclosing surcharges for using credit cards. The U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals in New York had upheld the law on the grounds it was a price regulation, not a speech restriction. Roberts and the high court disagreed. What the law does is regulate how sellers may communicate their prices, he said. A merchant who wants to charge $10 for cash and $10.30 for credit may not convey that price any way he pleases. He is not free to say '$10, with a 3% credit card surcharge. But the justices did not strike down the state laws, instead sending the case back to the New York court to decide whether this speech regulation could be justified. Sometimes, laws are used to regulate the words of commercial transactions to prevent buyers from being fooled or confused. Until recently, the major credit card companies had imposed contract restrictions that prevented merchants from disclosing surcharges. But those provisions have challenged and knocked down. That in turn led to new legal challenges against the state laws which forbid sellers from disclosing these surcharges. The case decided Wednesday was Expressions Hair Design vs. Schneiderman. Facebook
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Trumps poll numbers are low. But the people who put him in office say its not time to judge him yet By Noah Bierman Its been five months since the euphoria of a Donald Trump rally at the local arena brought optimism to this former Democratic stronghold. The snow from a long winter has begun melting into the rocky soil, and the digital sign in a torn-up parking lot blinks hopefully: Warm days are coming. President Trump has yet to deliver jobs or the repeal of Obamacare. But here, in an area crucial to his unexpected election victory, many residents are more frustrated with what they see as obstruction and a rush to judgment than they are with Trump. Give him six months to prove himself, said an information technology supervisor. Give him a year, said a service manager. Give him four years, said a retired print shop owner. Give the man a chance, said Crystal Matthews, a 59-year-old hospital employee. Theyre just going to fight him tooth and nail, the whole way. Read More Facebook
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To fight womans defamation claim, Trump cites the Bill Clinton-Paula Jones case which the president lost By David Savage President Trump is citing Bill Clintons famous sexual harassment battle in his effort to block a California womans lawsuit claiming Trump lied about groping her in the Beverly Hills Hotel in 2007. Problem is, Clinton lost that bid for legal immunity when the Supreme Court ruled unanimously in 1997 that the chief executive is not shielded from responding to a civil suit regarding his private behavior. Read More Facebook
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House sends Trump bill to kill landmark broadband privacy regulations By Jim Puzzanghera Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sponsored the repeal bill. (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images) The House voted Tuesday to kill landmark privacy restrictions for Internet service providers and sent the bill to the White House, which indicated President Trump would sign it and invalidate the rules before they go into effect. The measure, approved largely along party lines, repeals tough new Federal Communications Commission regulations that would require broadband companies to get explicit customer permission before using or sharing most of their personal information. The data include health information, website browsing history, app usage and the geographic information from mobile devices. The rules also tighten data security requirements. Republicans, along with AT&T Inc., Charter Communications Inc., Comcast Corp. and other providers of high-speed Internet service, strongly opposed the rules. They argued that the restrictions are tougher than those for websites and social networks that also collect and use the highly valuable consumer data, which companies use to target advertising. Read More Facebook
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U.S. commander says theres a fair chance that coalition airstrike is responsible for civilian casualties in Mosul By W.J. Hennigan Rescuers are still recovering bodies from a suspected U.S. airstrike in the Iraqi city of Mosul. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) The top U.S. general commanding the fight against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria said that the U.S.-led coalition was probably responsible for a blast that killed more than 200 people. If we did it, and I would say theres at least a fair chance that we did, it was an unintentional accident of war and we will transparently report it to you, Lt. Gen. Stephen Townsend told reporters Tuesday via teleconference from Baghdad. He made the comments in response to witness reports that an airstrike by the U.S.-led coalition leveled a large apartment block and killed scores of civilians, including women and children, in west Mosuls Jadidah neighborhood on March 17. My initial assessment is that we probably had a role in these casualties, Townsend said. But investigators are still trying to determine whether other factors -- possibly including repeated airstrikes in the neighborhood or an explosive device accidentally or deliberately planted near the building -- could have led to its collapse. The fact that the whole building collapsed contradicts our involvement, Townsend said. The munition that we used should not have collapsed an entire building. So thats one of those things were trying to figure out in the investigative process. Read More Facebook
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Gov. Jerry Brown calls Trump energy plan a colossal mistake that will galvanize climate change activists By Evan Halper Gov. Jerry Brown. (Gregory Bull / Associated Press) California Gov. Jerry Brown warned that President Trump has just made a colossal mistake in gutting the federal governments effort to combat climate change, which will ignite a response Trump is unprepared to handle. It defies science itself, Brown said in a call to The Times shortly after Trump signed an executive order that aims to bring an abrupt halt to the United States leadership on global warming. Erasing climate change may take place in Donald Trumps mind, but nowhere else. Yes, there is going to be a counter-movement, Brown vowed, predicting Trumps actions will mobilize environmentalists in a way President Obama never could. I have met with many heads of state, ambassadors. This is a growing movement. President Trumps outrageous move will galvanize the contrary force. Things have been a bit tepid [in climate activism]. But this conflict, this sharpening of the contradiction, will energize those who believe climate change is an existential threat. Brown and other big-state governors and mayors are moving swiftly to fill the global leadership vacuum Trump created with Tuesdays directive, which stops short of officially pulling the U.S. out of the Paris climate accord of 2015. I see Washington declining in influence, but the momentum being maintained by California and other states aligned with China and those who are willing to do something, said Brown, who will be traveling to China soon for meetings on climate. There is a growing activism on the part of millions of people who will not stand by and let Donald Trump effectively tear up the Paris agreement and destroy Americas climate leadership and jeopardize the health and well being of so many people. In the face of Trumps retreat on climate, Brown said California will step up its own efforts to push others toward clean energy. We are not fully meeting the challenge of climate change yet, he said. We are doubling down on our commitment. We are reaching out to other states in America and throughout the world and other countries . We have plenty of fuel to build this movement. This is real, Brown said of the threat created by climate change. The nations of the world have recognized it in Paris I will continue doing my best to work with and rouse the world community, whatever the politicians in Washington do or dont do. Facebook
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Trump orders government to dismantle Obamas climate change policies By Evan Halper President Trump ordered an abrupt halt to Americas crusade against climate change. (March 29, 2017) (Sign up for our free video newsletter here http://bit.ly/2n6VKPR) President Trump on Tuesday ordered the federal government to retreat from the battle against climate change launched by President Obama, issuing a directive aimed at dismantling the core policies that have made the U.S. a global leader in curbing emissions. The plan unveiled by Trump reflects an about-face for the U.S. on energy, and it puts into jeopardy the nations ability to meet the obligations it agreed to under the global warming pact signed in Paris with 194 other nations. It would shelve the landmark Clean Power Plan that mandates electricity companies reduce their emissions. It seeks to dislodge consideration of climate throughout the federal government, where it has been a factor in every relevant decision in recent years. My administration is putting an end to the war on coal, Trump said. I am taking historic steps to lift the restrictions on American energy to reverse government intrusions and to cancel job killing regulations. Under the order, the government will abandon the social cost of carbon that regulators had painstakingly calculated and begun factoring into their decision on permit applications and rulemaking. Restrictions on methane releases at oil and gas drilling facilities would be eased. Agencies will also stop contemplating climate impacts as they launch into new projects, and restrictions on coal leasing and fracking on federal lands will be lifted. The directive, for which progressive states and environmentalists have been preparing for months, is certain to set off years of litigation and conflicts between Washington and state capitols. Some of the most far-reaching policies Trump is seeking to bring to a halt cannot be canceled unilaterally and require lengthy administrative proceedings. But others he can end with the stroke of his pen. Smoke rises from the Colstrip Steam Electric Station, a coal-burning power plant in Colstrip, Mont., on July 1, 2103. (Matt Brown / Associated Press) Facebook
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A trade war is brewing inside the White House between rival camps By Don Lee Soon after President Trump took office, an executive order was quietly drafted to suspend talks with China on an obscure but potentially far-reaching treaty about bilateral investment. After eight years and two dozen rounds of negotiations, the treaty terms were almost in final form. Pulling out after so much time and effort would send a clear message that the Trump administration meant to take a new and tougher approach to China. But the executive order never even got to the presidents desk. It was quietly shelved, according to sources inside and outside the White House, at the behest of former Goldman Sachs President Gary Cohn, now Trumps top economic advisor. Killing the order was a small victory for a White House faction that supports free trade and the global economy. But it was only an opening skirmish in what promises to be a long and bitter struggle over trade policy that so far is being waged behind the scenes in the Trump administration. Read More Facebook
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Supreme Court reverses death sentence for Texas inmate who could not tell time or name the days of the week By David Savage The Supreme Court set aside a death sentence on Tuesday for a Texas inmate who as a 13-year-old could not tell time or name the days of the week, concluding he should not be executed in light of his mental disability. In a 5-3 decision, the justices reversed the Texas state appeals court that had restored a death sentence given to Bobby James Moore, a 57-year old prisoner who shot and killed a store clerk in a botched robbery in 1980. At issue was whether Moore had a mental disability that would make his execution cruel and unusual punishment under the 8th Amendment. The justices banned states from executing prisoners with a mental disability, but they left states some flexibility to set the standards. But three years ago, the justices faulted Florida authorities for relying almost entirely on I.Q. scores. In the Texas case decided Tuesday, the justices said state judges had ignored ample evidence that Moore had severe mental disability as a child. That evidence was not overcome by the fact that he had adapted well in prison, they said. At 13, Moore lacked the basic understanding of the days of the week, the months of the year and the seasons; he could scarcely tell time or comprehend the standards of measure, said Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. After failing every subject in the ninth grade, Moore dropped out of high school. Cast out of his home, he survived on the streets, eating from trash cans, even after two bouts of food poisoning. After fatally shooting the clerk in the 1980 robbery, he was sentenced to death. The Texas courts reexamined his sentence after the high court abolished capital punishment in 2002 for defendants with a mental disability. A state judge listened to experts and set aside Moores death sentence, But the states criminal appeals court disagreed. Its judges said Moore had demonstrated adaptive strength by living on the streets and carrying out a robbery, and therefore did not qualify as having a severe mental impairment. Ginsburg said the state judges had relied on an outdated understanding of mental disability, and her opinion in Moore vs. Texas said the state court must reconsidere its decision. Justices Anthony M. Kennedy, Stephen G. Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan agreed. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. dissented. While he agreed the states authorities may have used outdated standards, Moore had I.Q. scores ranging from 69 to 79 that show he did not have the significantly sub-average intellectual functioning that would exempt him from the death penalty. Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel A. Alito agreed. Facebook
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The Freedom Caucus roars back to relevance to challenge Trumps agenda and strategy By Lisa Mascaro When House Speaker Paul D. Ryan pulled the plug on the GOPs Obamacare overhaul, lawmakers spilled out of the Capitol basement, angry, frustrated and stunned. But Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.), leader of the conservative and rebellious House Freedom Caucus that led the fight against the bill, was uncharacteristically quiet, downplaying his political victory and mulling over the next move. After coming together to battle President Obama and becoming a driving force in the Republican Party, this 30-member-plus bloc of deficit hawks and right-flank conservatives had appeared for a while to be pushed aside by the movement that swept President Trump into office. But after helping defeat the GOP healthcare overhaul, the Freedom Caucus has roared back to relevance as a political power in the Trump era. It has reasserted itself as not just a renegade assemblage of mostly back-bench lawmakers, but as a core block of votes that Trump will need to push past the healthcare debacle to tax reform, budget battles and other issues. These guys saved the Republicans, said Adam Brandon, president of FreedomWorks, a group that organized a North Carolina rally on Monday in honor of Meadows. As beaten and battered as they are, weve got a group thats willing to take the hard decisions. If youre going to drain the swamp, these are the guys who are going to do it. Read More Facebook
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White House stopped Yates testimony about Russian meddling in presidential election, lawyer says By Associated Press A lawyer for former Deputy Atty. Gen. Sally Yates said in letters last week that the Trump administration had moved to squelch her testimony in a hearing about Russian meddling in the presidential election. In the letters, attorney David ONeil said he understood the Justice Department was invoking further constraints on testimony she could provide at a House Intelligence Committee hearing that had been scheduled for Tuesday. He said the departments position was that all actions she took as deputy attorney general were client confidences that could not be disclosed without written approval. The Washington Post first reported the letters. A person familiar with the situation confirmed them as authentic to the Associated Press. The White House called the Post story entirely false. Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare), chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and part of Trumps transition team, last week announced that the committee was canceling the planned public hearing with Yates and two former Obama administration intelligence officials the former director of national intelligence, James Clapper, and former CIA Director John Brennan. Read More Facebook
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Did Mnuchin cross an ethical line in plugging The Lego Batman Movie? A senator wants to know By Jim Puzzanghera (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / Associated Press) A Democratic senator wants to know if Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin committed an ethics violation when he publicly plugged The Lego Batman Movie, a film in which he has a financial stake. A former Hollywood financier, Mnuchin was asked at the end of a question-and-answer session on Friday hosted by the Axios news website to name a movie people should see. Well, Im not allowed to promote anything that Im involved in. So I just want to have the legal disclosure, youve asked me the question and I am not promoting any product, Mnuchin said at the event, which aired on C-SPAN2. But you should send all your kids to Lego Batman, he said. The crowd laughed. But Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, the top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, wasnt amused. Hes asking the U.S. Office of Government Ethics to look into the comments. Read More Facebook
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Venezuela hits back in showdown with OAS, U.S. over democracy By Tracy Wilkinson The Venezuelan foreign minister had harsh words Monday for the regional organization that is considering sanctioning her country for its failure to hold democratic elections. Delcy Rodriguez, the foreign minister, accused the Organization of American States of wanting not to punish Venezuela but to destroy it. Rodriguez appeared at an OAS panel convened in Washington. D.C., after the United States and 13 other of the hemispheres nations united to demand the leftist Venezuelan government free political prisoners and set a date for long-overdue elections. Failure to do so, the 14 countries warned, could trigger a decision to suspend Venezuela from the 69-year-old regional body. OAS Secretary-General Luis Almagro, a former Uruguayan foreign minister, has been especially critical of Venezuelas embattled government. He noted that President Nicolas Maduro canceled both a referendum that could have recalled his government and later regional elections, after the opposition made huge gains in parliamentary voting in 2015. In addition, thousands of people have been arrested for their political beliefs, Almagro said, including opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez, who has been in jail for three years. But Rodriguez, in a speech to the OAS panel, said Venezuelas revolution continues strong. She accused Almagro of being a stooge of the U.S. government, a lying mercenary who is a traitor to everything a Latin American diplomat should represent. He lacks independence when he voluntarily bows to the wishes of the most powerful nation of this organization -- and becomes its spokesman, Rodriguez said. Although the OAS has often been accused of pro-Washington tendencies, 13 nations in addition to the United States have joined to condemn Venezuela, a significant shift in Latin America away from populist regimes. Other leftist-ruled countries, like Bolivia, have said they will support Venezuela. Rodriguez said the accusations against her government were unilateral, unjustified and biased. She called on the OAS to suspend discussion of Venezuela, but another session was scheduled to proceed on Tuesday -- the same day Maduros Socialist Party is planning big anti-imperialism marches at home. All of the countries most critical of Venezuela, including the United States, say suspension of the oil-rich, Caribbean country from the OAS should be a measure of last resort. Despite its oil wealth, Venezuela is in the throes of an economic and humanitarian disaster, with severe shortages of food and medicine and skyrocketing inflation and homicide rates. Facebook
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Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions criticizes sanctuary cities but offers no new policies By Michael A. Memoli Decrying the safety risk posed when cities dont cooperate with federal immigration authorities, Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions repeated previous statements that the Trump administration would seek to deny so-called sanctuary cities some federal grant fun Decrying the safety risk posed when cities dont cooperate with federal immigration authorities, Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions repeated previous statements that the Trump administration would seek to deny so-called sanctuary cities some federal grant funds, but offered no new policies. Despite his high-profile appearance at the White House briefing room, Sessions merely reiterated Obama administration policy related to immigration. Justice Department officials said any new measures would be weeks or months in the future. The Obama administration issued instructions last July that required any cities applying for Justice Department grant programs be in compliance with federal law requiring cooperation between local, state and federal agencies with requests from the Immigration and Naturalization Service. Sessions noted that any jurisdiction applying for grants from his department would have to certify that compliance. The Justice Department already has been requiring that, which indicates that police and sheriff departments which currently have Justice Department grants already have been asserting that they are meeting the requirements of federal law. Although many cities have policies that they, or critics, characterize using the label sanctuary, those policies do not necessarily mean they are violating the law. Sessions did say that the Justice Department could in the future institute additional requirements, but announced none. Fundamentally, we intend to use all the lawful authority we have to make sure that our state and local officials, who are so important to law enforcement, are in sync with the federal government, he said. He did offer a warning to jurisdictions considering adopting sanctuary status. The California legislature is considering a proposal to institute the designation statewide; Sessions, though, singled out Maryland for a similar proposal. That would be such a mistake, Sessions said, while noting Marylands Republican governor opposes the change proposed by the heavily-Democratic legislature. Sessions cited a high-profile case in San Francisco where a 32-year-old woman was killed by man who had been previously deported multiple times despite a request by immigration authorities to continue his detention to illustrate the administrations case against such policies. Countless Americans would be alive today and countless loved ones would not be grieving today if these policies of sanctuary cities were ended, Sessions claimed. Facebook
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Devin Nunes plot thickens, as his spokesman concedes he met source for surveillance claim at White House By David S. Cloud The day before the House Intelligence Committee chairman revealed that conversations by Trump transition officials may have been inadvertently picked up by U.S. surveillance, he met with the source of the information at the White House, his spokesman said Monday Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare), went to the White House because there was a facility there for reviewing classified information, said Jack Langer, a spokesman for Nunes, who has refused to divulge the identity of his source. Chairman Nunes met with his source at the White House grounds in order to have proximity to a secure location where he could view the information provided by the source, Langer said. The latest news added another twist to a bizarre series of events last week: On Monday, FBI Director James Comey testified before Nunes committee that his investigators were looking at possible coordination during the presidential campaign between Russian officials and people close to Preisdent Trump. Tuesday night, Nunes went to the White House where someone showed him documents related to U.S. intelligence surveillance, according to his statement. On Wednesday, Nunes announced to reporters that he had seen evidence indicating that people close to Trump had been subjects of surveillance during the transition. He then went to the White House, saying that he needed to brief Trump about the revelations. On Thursday, Nunes apologized to committee members for not having shown the evidence to them before briefing the president. Later that day, his spokesman conceded that Nunes did not know for sure that any Trump aides had actually been subject to surveillance, just that their names had appeared in intelligence reports, which could have resulted from other people talking about them. That sequence of events could buttress Democrats claims that the episode last week was a White House ploy to shift attention away from the FBI investigation. Democrats already have been saying Nunes should be disqualified from heading an inquiry into whether Trumps aides had improper contacts with Russia. Nunes statement left several questions unanswered. One is why he would have had to go to the White House unless his source worked there, because members of Congress have access to a secure facility at the U.S. Capitol. Asked to explain Nunes actions, Langer said in an email, The information comprised executive branch documents that have not been provided to Congress. Because of classification rules, the source could not simply put the documents in a backpack and walk them over to the House Intelligence Committee space. He added: The White House grounds was the best location to safeguard the proper chain of custody and classification of these documents, so the Chairman could view them in a legal way. Last week, White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer had dismissed speculation that the White House had supplied Nunes with the information, saying that the suggestion did not pass the smell test. He added, however, that he did not for sure what Nunes had told Trump or where his information came from. After Nunes apologized to members of his committee Thursday and promised to thoroughly investigate the surveillance, several lawmakers said Nunes had promised to provide them the surveillance information he had received. That has not occurred yet. In his first statement last week, Nunes said he was concerned that some Trump transition officials identities might have been improperly revealed in intelligence reports, despite rules requiring them to be kept confidential in most cases. The Chairman is extremely concerned by the possible improper unmasking of names of U.S. citizens, and he began looking into this issue even before President Trump tweeted his assertion that Trump Tower had been wiretapped, Langer said. Whether any officials names actually were unmasked is unclear. The ranking Democrat on the committee, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) has questioned Nunes assertions about improper unmasking. But Schiff noted that he has not seen the documents Nunes claims to have seen. Schiff had no comment on the news that Nunes had seen the documents at the White House. UPDATES 10:20 a.m.: This article was updated with staff reporting. This article was originally published as an Associated Press report at 9:06 a.m. Facebook
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Venezuela in showdown with OAS, U.S. over political prisoners By Tracy Wilkinson The besieged leftist government of Venezuela is under mounting pressure after the United States and 13 of the hemispheres other leading nations demanded the release of political prisoners and other pro-democracy concessions. The Organization of American States, the regions main collective body, has threatened to suspend Venezuela because of what it called the autocratic repression imposed by President Nicolas Maduro. Maduros foreign minister, Delcy Rodriguez, will appear Monday before an OAS panel in Washington to plead her governments case. This comes after members of the Venezuelan delegation stormed out of OAS meetings last week, according to diplomats. OAS Secretary-General Luis Almagro, in a report on Venezuela, noted that Maduro canceled both a referendum that could have recalled his government and later regional elections, after the opposition made huge gains in parliamentary voting in 2015. A Maduro-controlled Supreme Court then stripped the parliament of much of its power. In addition, thousands of people have been arrested for their political beliefs, Almagro said, including opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez, who has been in jail for three years. The OAS is demanding Venezuela hold elections or risk suspension from the group, a drastic measure. The last time a country was suspended was when the military and right-wing politicians staged a coup against the elected president in Honduras in 2009. Under OAS regulations, a country can be suspended when the democratic order is altered. Venezuela is in the throes of a devastating economic and humanitarian crisis. The oil-rich country has among the highest homicide and inflation rates in the world and suffers from severe shortages of food and medicine. The Maduro government angrily condemned the OAS actions as imperialist interference and vowed to resist. Adan Chavez, brother of the late Hugo Chavez, the socialist strongman who set Venezuela on its revolutionary path, claimed the OAS was plotting a coup against Maduro. Maduro views much of his opposition as right-wing oligarchs who have long repressed the poor. Although the OAS has often been accused of pro-Washington tendencies, it is significant that 13 nations in addition to the United States are united in condemning Venezuela. This marks a shift away from populist regimes in much of Latin America. The Trump administration, which has shown little interest in Latin America beyond Mexico, did issue instructions to diplomats to find ways through the OAS to put pressure on Venezuela, according to people familiar with the matter. Those instructions came despite parallel administration plans to slash funds to the OAS and other multilateral institutions like the United Nations. Trump recently spoke by telephone to the presidents of Chile and Brazil and in both cases discussed Venezuela, the White House said. And he met at the White House with Lilian Tintori, the wife of Lopez, the jailed opposition leader, as she lobbied for her husbands freedom. The Treasury Department earlier this year slapped sanctions on Venezuelas vice president, Tareck El Aissami, alleging he was a major drug trafficker, charges he denied. Were not pushing for Venezuelas expulsion from the OAS at this time, State Department spokesman Mark Toner said late last week. However, we do think the OAS is the appropriate venue to deal with the ongoing situation in Venezuela, he said. Elections are essential to securing accountability, and the Venezuelan people deserve a voice in creating solutions to the myriad economic, political, and social and humanitarian challenges that they face. Facebook
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Trump takes to Twitter to blame GOP hard-liners over healthcare failure By Laura King (Mandel Ngan / AFP-Getty Images) President Trump on Sunday blamed fellow Republicans and two influential conservative advocacy groups for last weeks failure of the GOP healthcare plan. The president had said on Friday that it was the fault of Democrats that House Speaker Paul D. Ryan pulled the measure from consideration rather than putting it forth for a floor showdown that the GOP leadership would have lost. In a Sunday morning tweet, the president appeared to shift culpability to the House Freedom Caucus, a conservative group of GOP lawmakers who were key to depriving Trump and his camp of the votes needed for passage. Democrats are smiling over the bills failure, Trump declared on Twitter. The Freedom Caucus, he said, had saved President Obamas Affordable Care Act with the help of Heritage Action and the Club for Growth, two organizations that had opposed the GOP measure. The chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.), declined to engage in any sparring with the White House, instead predicting that a Trump-led Republican effort to overhaul Obamas signature healthcare legislation eventually would move ahead. At the end of the day, the most valuable player will be President Trump, he said on ABCs This Week. Meadows also insisted there had been no conversation about any attempt to force out Ryan, who is being blamed for failing to marshal sufficient support for the measure he had spearheaded. Trump so far has refrained from public criticism of the speaker, but again on Twitter he specifically urged followers to watch a Fox News segment on Saturday night, featuring commentator Jeanine Pirro excoriating Ryan and calling for him to be ousted. That gave rise to speculation that Trump would seek to force the speaker to take the fall for the debacle. Read More Facebook
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After the GOP healthcare bill fizzles, Trump blames the Democrats and says he learned a lot about loyalty By Brian Bennett President Trump addresses the cancellation of a vote Friday on the GOPs plan to overhaul the Affordable Care Act. After failing to land a deal on the healthcare bill, President Trump on Friday blamed Democrats, even though the GOP controls Congress and the White House, and made few overtures across the aisle when pushing the bill. When you get no votes from the other side -- meaning Democrats -- it is really a difficult situation, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office after a revolt by Republican lawmakers forced House leaders to stop a vote in their bid to overhaul the Affordable Care Act. Trump insisted that the current healthcare law, commonly known as Obamacare, will collapse under its own weight, and then Democrats will want to make a deal with the White House. I truly believe the Democrats will come to us, Trump said. In the meantime, Trump is moving his attention to pushing through a tax reform bill, he said. We will probably be going really hard for the big tax cuts and tax reform -- thats next, he said. Trump, who has spent decades negotiating real estate deals and seeing many of them fall through, seemed sanguine discussing the effort he put into getting a healthcare reform bill passed. This was an interesting period of time, Trump said. We learned a lot about loyalty and we learned a lot about the vote-getting process. Trump stopped short of blaming House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) and avoided singling out the group of conservative Republican lawmakers, who dug in their heels in opposition. Lawmakers in the House Freedom Caucus that largely stood against the bill are very good people and friends of mind, he said. I was disappointed because we could have had it, he said. Im a little surprised, he said. When asked by a reporter if he would reach out now to Democrats for ideas on how to get a deal, Trump said, No, I think we need to let Obamacare go its way for a little while. Then well see how things go. Facebook
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Tillerson will meet with NATO counterparts, after all By Tracy Wilkinson Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will meet with NATO allies next week in Brussels, a move that could quell controversy over his earlier decision to skip a long-planned summit of the transatlantic alliance. The State Department said Friday that Tillerson added a stop at NATO headquarters in Brussels to a previously scheduled trip to the Turkish capital of Ankara. Tillerson will be in Ankara on Thursday to meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other senior Turkish officials to discuss the fight against Islamic State militants in Syria and to reaffirm Turkeys important role in ensuring regional stability, the State Department said. The next day, he will go to NATO, the State Department said. NATO officials were attempting to put together a session with the other 27 allied nations. Earlier this week, news that Tillerson would miss the NATO ministerial meeting set for April 5-6, roiled the alliance. Administration officials said Tillerson would have to be in Washington to attend President Trumps first face-to-face meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 6-7. At the same time, Tillersons aides announced he would be traveling to Moscow the following week. Criticism was swift from European allies but also from several former American diplomats and key U.S. lawmakers, who said the decision raised questions about the Trump administrations commitment to NATO. During his campaign, Trump called the alliance obsolete, although more recently he has voiced support for it while also demanding members spend more money on defense. In response, Tillersons aides said they were exchanging possible alternative dates with NATO to attempt to arrange a meeting in which all parties could participate. It was not yet clear if next Fridays meeting will take the place of the April 5-6 session, which as of late Friday remained on NATOs formal calendar. Diplomats considered the ministerial meeting as especially important because it will lay the groundwork for a May 25 NATO summit of heads of state and government, which Trump has said he will attend. Facebook
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Charter promises Trump something new ($25-billion investment) and something old (20,000 jobs) By Jim Puzzanghera Charter Communications Chief Executive Thomas Rutledge. (Mandel Ngan / AFP/Getty Images) The chief executive of Charter Communications committed in a meeting with President Trump on Friday to invest $25 billion on broadband infrastructure while joining a trend of business leaders touting previously announced job creation at the White House. In the case of Charter Southern Californias dominant cable-TV and Internet service provider Chief Executive Thomas Rutledge said he expected to hire 20,000 new U.S. employees over the next four years. Charter had made the hiring promise in 2015 when it was purchasing Time Warner Cable. The new development was the time period in which it will occur. Nevertheless, Trump indicated the job creation was triggered by his election. Read More Facebook
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Threats made against Hawaii judge who ruled against travel ban By Jaweed Kaleem (George Lee / The Star-Advertiser via AP) The Hawaii federal judge who brought President Trumps revised travel ban to a national halt last week has become the target of threats. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson has received the threats since his March 15 ruling, according to FBI spokeswoman Michele Ernst. Ernst said the FBI is ready to assist but declined to provide more information. The U.S. Marshals Service also said it would not give details. The U.S. Marshals Service is responsible for the protection of federal judicial officials, including judges and prosecutors, and we take that responsibility very seriously, the agency said in a statement. While we do not discuss our specific security measures, we continuously review the security measures in place for all federal judges and take appropriate steps to provide additional protection when it is warranted. Watson, a judge in the U.S. District Court of Hawaii in Honolulu, issued a scathing 43-page opinion against the travel ban the day before it was to go into effect. He wrote that, despite the bans stated secular purpose, Trumps own words marked the executive order as a fulfillment of the presidents campaign promise to temporarily bar Muslims from coming to the U.S. The illogic of the governments contention is palpable, Watson said. In response, Trump said Watsons ruling was terrible and makes us look weak. Trump has vowed to take the travel ban case to the U.S. Supreme Court. An appeal of a separate Maryland federal judges ruling against the travel ban is currently pending in the U.S. 4th District Court of Appeals. Facebook
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House GOP gives up on healthcare bill as Trump suffers first legislative defeat By Lisa Mascaro Unable to muster enough support from his own party, House Speaker Paul D. Ryan again postponed a vote Friday on the GOPs plan to overhaul the Affordable Care Act. The move came at the request of President Trump, who just Thursday night issued an ultimatum that lawmakers should hold the vote regardless of the outcome. It was the second time House GOP leaders had to delay a final reckon
Its been clear for a while now that pregnant women who become infected with the Zika virus are more likely to have babies with microcephaly, neural tube defects and other serious problems. Now experts can say just how much bigger that risk is for these babies: 20 times greater than if their mothers were Zika-free.
That finding, reported Thursday by a team of epidemiologists from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, answers a question that has flummoxed scientists since the Zika virus was first linked to a rash of birth defects in Brazil in the summer of 2015.
The first step in calculating that number was to determine the baseline risk for the kinds of birth defects seen among pregnant women infected by Zika, including potentially fatal abnormalities of the brain or central nervous system, neural tube defects and eye abnormalities.
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Defects such as these can be caused by other kinds of infections, nutritional deficits or genetic abnormalities, and physicians have seen them for as long as they have been taking care of pregnant women and their babies. Without a clear picture of just how common such birth defects are in a population of pregnant women unaffected by Zika, scientists could have no way of knowing how potent a driver of birth defects the Zika virus truly is.
This is where the painstaking collection, maintenance and analysis of health outcomes what public health officials call surveillance pays its dividends.
So the CDC researchers drew from their own intelligence-gathering efforts on birth defects before the Zika virus even appeared in Brazil. Epidemiologists examined birth outcomes in North Carolina, Massachusetts and three counties surrounding Atlanta in 2013 and 2014. They carefully teased out the numbers and details of babies born there, including miscarriages and those who were stillborn.
In those areas, and during a period that predated the arrival of Zika in the Americas by more than a year, the researchers tallied 747 infants and fetuses with one or more of the abnormalities that have since become the hallmarks of Zika infection. Of those, 154 fetuses were pregnancy losses, most often doomed by a brain abnormality or neural tube defect.
Altogether, fetuses and babies with such defects represented just 2.86 per 1,000 live births to women in those surveillance areas in 2013 and 2014.
The epidemiologists then compared that number to the prevalence of birth defects seen in babies and fetuses who were born in 2016 to women who contracted Zika while they were pregnant. These women were closely tracked after their infections were clearly confirmed by blood tests.
That group of 442 pregnant women gave birth to 26 infants and fetuses with these same birth defects. This proportion 58.8 per 1,000 is approximately 20 times higher than in the baseline group that was Zika-free.
The upshot: For a pregnant woman outside of areas where mosquitoes are spreading the Zika virus, the risk of having (or losing) a baby with a defect such as microcephaly, neural tube defect, or brain or eye abnormality is pretty low, well under 1%.
But for a pregnant woman infected with Zika, that risk escalates by a factor of 20. She has a roughly 5.9% chance that her baby will miscarry or be born with one of the serious abnormalities linked to Zika.
The report appeared in the CDCs Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
For a list of CDCs travel advisories and some general advice to pregnant women about Zika, see here.
melissa.healy@latimes.com
Twitter: @LATMelissaHealy
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Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions will step aside from overseeing the investigation into alleged Russian interference in the presidential election amid signs of growing unease among fellow Republicans over where the inquiry may lead.
Sessions announced his action, which he said he had been considering for weeks, during a hastily arranged news conference at the Justice Department on Thursday afternoon.
The move came just hours after top Democrats called for his resignation because he had failed to disclose meetings with the Russian ambassador, and a growing number of Republicans had urged him to recuse himself from the inquiry.
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Sessions action marks the second time in less than a month that a top Trump administration official has been tripped up by failure to disclose a meeting with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Last month, President Trump ousted Michael Flynn, his national security advisor, after news reports revealed that Flynn had spoken with the ambassador and then had misled Vice President Mike Pence and other officials about the talks.
Meetings between Trump associates and Russian officials are a sensitive subject because the FBI and other U.S. agencies have been investigating Russias efforts to meddle in last years presidential election. An intelligence report issued in January, shortly before Trump took office, assessed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had ordered the meddling, which included cyberattacks against the Democratic National Committee, to hurt Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and help Trump.
The FBI is also investigating whether people associated with the Trump campaign may have had contacts with Russian officials during the election year.
FBI officials have refused to discuss their investigation, and there has been no proof that they have discovered wrongdoing by any Trump associate, but even so, the inquiry has disrupted the early weeks of Trumps administration. Earlier this week, officials ordered White House aides to preserve records that might be relevant to the investigation.
Sessions, as attorney general, oversees the FBI, but with his recusal, responsibility for overseeing the investigation will now pass to Dana Boente, a career prosecutor and the departments acting deputy attorney general. Boente briefly served as acting attorney general after Trump fired his predecessor, Sally Yates, for refusing to defend the presidents ban on travel from seven mostly Muslim countries.
The attorney general began his news conference with a blunt statement saying he had no ties to the Russian government.
Let me be clear. I never had meetings with Russian operatives or Russian intermediaries about the Trump campaign, he said.
Nevertheless, he said, he had studied the departments ethics rules and weighed the advice of career Justice Department staffers. They had urged Sessions, who had been a vocal Trump supporter, to withdraw because he had involvement with the campaign and should not oversee any investigation involving it, he said.
I believe those recommendations are right and just, he said. A proper decision, I believe, has been reached.
Earlier in the afternoon, Trump said that he had total confidence in Sessions and that he did not think the attorney general needed to step away from the investigation, but Sessions said that the ethics rules left him little choice.
I should not be involved investigating a campaign I had a role in, he said.
Just three weeks into his tenure, Sessions had found himself under fire largely because of the way he answered a single question during his Senate confirmation hearing in January.
In response to the query by Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.), Sessions testified that I didnt have did not have communications with the Russians. In fact, he had at least two conversations with the ambassador last year. When the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday about those conversations, the news set off a furor.
Sessions told reporters that he had tried to honestly answer Frankens question, which he said he believed was focused on whether there was a continuing exchange of information between the Trump campaign and intermediaries for the Russian government.
My reply to the question of Sen. Franken was honest and correct as I understood at the time, Sessions told reporters. But, he said, he would send a letter to the Judiciary Committee to explain the testimony for the record.
Sessions described two meetings with Kislyak while he was still a U.S. senator. One was a brief encounter after a speech Sessions made in July. The second occurred in September at Kislyaks request and took place in his Senate office, Sessions said.
Sessions described the get-together as routine and attended by at least three members of his staff. He added that he did not recall any specific political discussion coming up.
White House officials spent much of the day trying to defend Sessions, who won support from some Republicans.
Weve got to be very careful here, said Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare), the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee.
Its a slippery slope. All the countries in the world basically have embassies here. A lot of those countries are adversaries. But we all meet with those many senators and congressmen meet with those ambassadors on a regular basis, he said.
Top Democrats, however, were scathing in their assessments, saying Sessions should recuse himself or step down from the Justice Department entirely.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) said that Sessions had lied under oath and must resign.
Republicans did not go that far, but as the day went on, Sessions lost support among influential party leaders who called for him to step away from any role in the investigation.
I think [for] the trust of the American people, you recuse yourself in these situations, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) said early Thursday on MSNBCs Morning Joe.
Once the decision was made, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, praised Sessions for stepping aside, but said that his failure to mention the meetings with Kislyak was hard to understand.
The Russian is not easily forgettable, the California Democrat told CNN. One would remember meeting with him.
Kislyak, 66, has been Russias ambassador in Washington for nearly a decade. A veteran diplomat, he has also long been reputed to be a Russian intelligence agent.
In addition to the FBIs inquiry of Russias efforts to manipulate the U.S. election, the House and Senate intelligence committees are also attempting to investigate.
Those efforts have been endangered by the FBIs failure to share enough information about its findings, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee said.
We cannot represent to the American people that were doing a thorough job if the Department of Justice or the FBI is unwilling to tell us what indeed theyve looked at, what leads they have followed, where they have found substance and where they have not, Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-Burbank) told reporters shortly after his committee was briefed by FBI Director James B. Comey.
In a separate interview, Schiff said that Comey had declined to answer many of the lawmakers questions and that such reticence cant persist.
If were going to do our job, the FBI is going to have to fully cooperate with us, and that means they cant say, Well tell you about this but we wont tell you about that, Schiff said.
Democrats and some Republicans have called for an independent panel to investigate Russias actions. The Republican leadership has resisted that idea, preferring to keep the inquiry in the hands of the intelligence committees.
Times staff writers David Lauter and Sarah D. Wire contributed to this report.
del.wilber@latimes.com
Twitter: @delwilber
lisa.mascaro@latimes.com
Twitter: @lisamascaro
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UPDATES:
4:50 p.m.: This article has been updated with additional comments and details.
1:20 p.m.: This article was updated with Sessions saying hell recuse himself.
12:20 p.m.: This article was updated with Sessions plans to hold a news conference.
12:05 p.m.: This article was updated with comments from President Trump.
8:50 a.m.: This article was updated with comments from Republican senators.
This article was originally published at 7:05 a.m.
Meet Leela.
Having arrived in Orange County for a family wedding, the serious teenager from India writes in her journal and goes on an adventure in search of the perfect orange.
She is a young woman on the autism spectrum who finds it difficult to navigate social interactions. But one night, she embarks on a drive with her cousin Priti, and the journey is a discovery for everyone.
This is the plot of playwright Aditi Brennan Kapils drama Orange, a new play by the Twin Cities writer that is making its West Coast premiere at South Coast Repertory March 5 until March 26.
Orange was commissioned by South Coast Repertory as part of its CrossRoads Initiative, a program funded by the Time Warner Foundation to bring playwrights to Orange County on immersive residencies as a means for inspiration. Kapil, who hadnt been to Orange County before, took a few days to explore the area, including visiting the circle in Orange and the old blimp hangars in Tustin. The sightseeing served to inform her work.
The result is a play featuring three actors, Pia Shah portraying Leela, Karthik Srinivasan playing all the male characters and Anjali Bhimani as all the women.
The biggest challenge is making sure in the short amount of time in the play that when the audience meets the characters for the first time, were able to convey a fully realized human, said Bhimani.
Bhimani grew up in North Tustin, participated in Foothill Highs theater department under the tutelage of drama teacher Jan Laurie Russell and graduated from Northwestern University in Illinois. Her parents met when they acted in a play during medical school, and the family regularly saw shows and plays throughout Southern California, she said about her earliest theatrical exposure.
Bhimani said she could identify most with Priti I remember that snarky teenager and desperate desire to be loved and cool and treated like an adult since she grew up in a first-generation Indian household but felt more American than Indian. Nonetheless, she explained, the heart of Orange is the relationship between Leela and her mother.
Without the play being too specific about autism, were dealing with a lot of things today where people are made to be the other and are scared to be different, Bhimani said. Theres very much a person in the other, and you cant help but fall in love with her.
Throughout the adventure, Leela sketches her observations in her diary.
Director Jessica Kubzansky said bringing Kapils script to life has been deliciously challenging.
Orange is an illustrative play, and it called for set designers to articulate the journey with care and intelligence, Kubzansky said.
She collaborated with scenic designer Michael Raiford and projection designer Mike Tutaj, who take the audience into Leelas thoughts by projecting onto two screens the drawings from her diary.
Raiford and Tutaj worked out how to give surfaces to the story and project not just one big backdrop but rather an evolving palette that makes elements pop out and disappear again as the show progresses.
The creative team said the concept makes for a profound experience when meeting Leelas character and helps better an understanding of the language and expectations when interacting with people on the autism spectrum.
For me, I think the message is that the more we all stop making people something else, strange or other, the more we realize we are connected, Bhimani said, and that rather than being scared of something different, connect with people who are different than you because were all similar more than you think.
*
IF YOU GO
What: Orange
When: 7:45 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 2 and 7:45 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays until March 26
Where: South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: Tickets start at $22
Information: (714) 708-5555 or visit scr.org.
kathleen.luppi@latimes.com
Twitter: @KathleenLuppi
For most of human drinking history, beer was fermented and served from handmade oak barrels called casks. Unlike the clear, chilled and fizzy draft-poured IPAs and pilsners were accustomed to today, these cask ales were naturally carbonated, entirely unfiltered and served directly from their barrels at cozy cellar temperatures.
In Britain, where this practice for the most part remains in place, cask ales which can range from pale ales to stouts are called real ales, as in your force-carbonated, keg-sitting filtered alcoholic water is fake.
FirkFest Caskaway, Orange Countys only all-cask beer festival, which returns to the Anaheim Packing District for a fourth year March 11, isnt as dogmatic as the Brits.
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Yes, the beers all follow tradition by being fermented in 5- and 10-gallon cask vessels (called pins and firkins, respectively) and use nothing but gravity to get from there into your glass. But from chocolate banana milk stouts to one-off kumquat IPAs, its what goes into the casks along with the beer that sets FirkFests offerings apart from anything youd find in a British pub.
At no other beer event will you find brewers beet red, covered in sweat and trying to figure out how to unclog a bunch of citrus from the spout of a firkin, festival founder Greg Nagel says. Its a fussy serving technology, but its how beer has been served for most of its history.
And this year, that fussy serving technology will be used for yet another first-ever FirkFest experiment: the countrys first tiki beer festival.
Nagel, a beer writer and the founder of OC Beer Blog who also covers drinks for Orange Coast Magazine, was inspired to merge European cask ales with Southern Californias love of tiki culture after attending a transoceanic cocktail event at 320 Main in Seal Beach last year. While sipping on classic Polynesian-inspired drinks made with smoky Scotch whiskeys (instead of rum), he realized that a tiki-themed beer fest didnt seem so eccentric.
Previous FirkFests had looser themes like Chili Cook-Off (where restaurants brought chili for judging) and Day at the Park (where company picnic games were played), but FirkFest Caskaway is going full throttle with the island idea, switching up the entire marketing and encouraging breweries to bring beers that evoke the tiki spirit.
Tropical adjectives, like citrus and mango, are all over the beer flavor wheel, and a good portion of IPAs already have those flavor profiles in them, Nagel says. Its not a far stretch to ask brewers to do tropical beers.
So far, a majority of the 30 independent breweries from across the Southland that will be in attendance have agreed to play along. Some are keeping it simple and bringing things like pineapple-infused IPAs and coconut-infused porters, while others are adding adjuncts like macadamia nuts and rum-soaked oak chips to make their beers mimic classic tiki cocktails the Zombie and the Navy Grog.
Mikkeller Brewing in San Diego is doing a mango-saturated take on its popular oatmeal coffee stout Beer Geek Breakfast that its calling Beer Geek Tiki Land. Costa Mesas chef-driven Gunwhale Ales will be taking one of its already unfiltered house beers and adding fennel fronds, pomegranate, vanilla and citrus. And Riip Beer Co. in Huntington Beach is adding a full serving of Hawaiian-style kalua pork (yes, meat!) into a new stout. Head brewer Trevor Walls admits that this might be the weirdest thing the hop-centric brewerys ever done.
Since youre only making 10 gallons at a time, you can really go for it and try something you wouldnt make on your big system, Walls says. At festivals, you always want to show your best, and FirkFest is a festival where you get to be really creative.
In addition to the fun experimental stuff and the insane-crazy, meat-filled beers, there will also be many real ales that pay full homage to the traditional style.
U.K.-focused Macleod Brewing in Van Nuys is bringing six casks. Temeculas cask-only brewery Inland Wharf will be in attendance too, with several rounds of its finest, as will half-British-owned Firestone Walker, which is bringing a cask of its coveted Unfiltered DBA.
While chatting with Nagel and Walls over a pint of Riips award-winning Super Cali IPA a few weeks ago, I heard the two describe cask ales as the beer worlds Polaroid pictures. Like a photograph that cant be edited, fixed or changed after its been taken, cask ales are individual endeavors. Each one is created and sealed at the brewery by the brewer and wont be tasted until someone hammers in a spout and starts serving like what happens at FirkFest.
For every other fest, its easy to take a keg of your year-round stuff and send it off, Walls says. With FirkFest, the casks are coming directly from the mind and heart of the brewer. Theres more pride, more effort and much more love put into a cask."
FirkFest Caskaway takes place at the Anaheim Packing District from noon to 4 p.m. March 11. Tickets are $55. For more information, visit firkfest.com.
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SARAH BENNETT is a freelance journalist covering food, drink, music, culture and more. She is the former food editor at L.A. Weekly and a founding editor of Beer Paper L.A. Follow her on Twitter @thesarahbennett.
For the past three years, Marisa Bist has spent part of her time at Newport Coast Elementary School helping to catalog books in the library.
Sometimes the sixth-grader would sacrifice playing during recess to help out there.
Her dedication as a library aide paid off Thursday afternoon when she got to put on a black and white felt costume and towering red and white striped hat and become the Cat in the Hat while passing out bookmarks to other students as part of the National Education Assn.'s 20th annual Read Across America Day to celebrate Dr. Seuss birthday.
I saw people dress up as Cat in the Hat in previous years and it looked like fun, Marisa, 11, said before changing into the costume and having whiskers drawn on her face by librarian Carmen McCormick. I want to make little kids happy, and its important for kids to read.
To honor the late Dr. Seuss, the renowned childrens author whose real name was Theodor Geisel, Newport Coast Elementary joined many other schools nationwide that were expected to hold read-a-thons and arts and crafts Thursday, according to the National Education Assn. website.
Activities for the day were planned months in advance by McCormick and student leaders including Marisa and 11-year-old Beyonce Zhou.
Apart from getting to wear the costume, Marisa said she enjoyed reading her favorite Dr. Seuss book, Green Eggs and Ham, to other students.
Meanwhile, Beyonce had fun teaching younger kids how to make bows similar to the one worn by the Cat in the Hat.
McCormick said Newport Coast Elementary always encourages students to become leaders. Wearing costumes and planning activities for Read Across America Day helps motivate kids to pick up a book and improve their literacy, she said.
Classes were encouraged to participate in a door-decorating contest. The only requirements were that the decor be Dr. Seuss-inspired and be done by hand by students.
The class with the best decorated door wins a full day in the library, meaning no homework is assigned.
One door had multiple Cats in the Hat plastered on it.
Teacher Joni Sommers second-graders enjoyed In-N-Out burgers and punch outside their classroom as Marisa visited.
Eight-year-old Avery Wyson wore a red and white onesie to show off her favorite Dr. Seuss character, Thing 1 from The Cat in the Hat.
Other students wore handmade versions of the Cats red and white hat.
Students and teachers wore their costumes for group pictures with Marisa.
Not many students make it to three years as a library aide, McCormick said as she watched Marisa hand out bookmarks with a smile on her face. Shes a shy girl, but she was excited once she found out shed be wearing the costume. Its a really special moment for a student.
priscella.vega@latimes.com
Twitter: @VegaPriscella
For the first time since 2012, a delegation of Laguna Beach Sister Cities Assn. members visited leaders of one of the citys sister cities, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico.
The primary purpose of last months trip was to get acquainted with a new crop of government officials since the members last visit, association emeritus president and founding member Karyn Philippsen said Thursday.
Association representatives also toured a house built for a family displaced in 2014 by Hurricane Odile, which killed five people and is considered one of the strongest tropical cyclones to hit Baja California, according to a Weather Channel story.
The association and city of Laguna Beach funded the house.
The association has also forged partnerships with Menton, France, and St. Ives, England, to foster cultural, educational and business activities.
For more information on the Laguna Beach Sister Cities Assn., visit lagunabeachsistercities.com/.
bryce.alderton@latimes.com
Twitter: @AldertonBryce
They were 36,000 feet above Colorado when an emergency call sounded over the airliners intercom.
A man had lost consciousness in the restroom. He was turning blue.
Flight attendants had opened the door and the man, a 91-year-old traveling with his daughter and friends for a vacation, rolled out of the cramped compartment onto the floor. The flight attendants called for someone with medical training to assist.
Jason Pyle, a Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue division chief, was sitting in Row 17 of the Delta Air Lines jet, trying to find a movie to watch on his tablet for the remainder of the flight. The plane was scheduled to land in Orange County that night, and its cabin was darkened to accommodate sleeping passengers.
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Pyle, fire engineer Steve Cathey and fleet maintenance supervisor Gant Corum were flying home from Appleton, Wis., on Jan. 13 after doing final inspections on two new fire engines for the department.
Pyle heard the call for help and immediately got up to see what he could do.
With the assistance of the flight attendants, Pyle slid the 6-foot-1 man to a portion of the plane where they could stretch him out and begin to render aid.
He was in a ball in obvious distress, Pyle said. He was blue.
Cathey, who was in his seat watching the film Deepwater Horizon with noise-canceling headphones, was oblivious to the scene unfolding in the back of the plane until he heard his partner shout his name.
When the flight attendants came up to get me, I heard Chief Pyle call out my name and instantly I knew OK, theres something going on, Cathey said.
For Pyle, the few seconds it took to get Cathey felt like an eternity.
Im looking at the man thinking were going to need to start CPR in a few seconds and theres no way Im going to be able to do that without Steve, Pyle said. Theres a tone that I just yelled through the plane. Its interesting [that] even through noise-canceling headphones, when youve worked with someone so long and you hear a certain tone of voice, that call means something.
The group was soon joined by a nurse and a cardiovascular surgeon who helped stabilize the man with the minimal emergency resources aboard the plane. They suspected at the time that he was having a cardiac issue, but further medical treatment at a hospital revealed he wasnt getting enough oxygen.
The pilot diverted the flight to Denver, where it landed within minutes. By then, the man was conscious and talking.
Cathey spoke with the mans daughter and chronicled some of his medical history to make the hand-off to Denver fire officials easier.
After Denver firefighters took the man, the plane was in the air again in less than 10 minutes. It touched down at John Wayne Airport at 11:20 p.m.
Two family friends who were traveling with the man stayed on the plane but didnt have a ride from the airport, so Cathey drove them to Los Alamitos.
The family has since reached out to Cathey and Pyle to thank them and update them on the mans condition. Hes doing well, they say.
Pyle said quick thinking by the flight attendants saved the mans life. They realized after the man went into the bathroom and didnt come out that they should check on him, he said.
They saw something out of the ordinary and they acted on it, Pyle said. By doing that, they found him and did the next best thing ... they asked for help. If they had done nothing and left him in there, he probably would have had less of a stellar result.
Cathey and Pyle said theyve encountered other emergency situations while off duty and always stopped to help. Neither had ever had an emergency on a plane but figured it was bound to happen at some point.
Were firemen when were on duty and were firemen the rest of the time too, Cathey said. Its whats instilled within us. Its what we do.
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Hannah Fry, hannah.fry@latimes.com
Twitter: @HannahFryTCN
Theres a well-known aphorism that all politics is local. The same could be said about education.
Profound changes in education policies, funding and philosophy might be underway at the national and state levels. But for many of us those changes can seem abstract and distant.
Whats really important to us is what transpires in our own districts, and in our kids schools and classrooms. We care about who our childrens administrators and teachers are and what theyre doing to fulfill the promise of giving students a high-quality learning experience.
It is very personal, said Jason Viloria, superintendent of the Laguna Beach Unified School District. Thats the power of education, that its individualized.
Viloria provides a case in point. The youthful administrator assumed the top job at LBUSD last summer with a resume that displayed broad experience in different types of school settings. He previously held various administrative posts at the San Dieguito Union High School District in northern San Diego County, where many parents work in technology, or at UC San Diego, and no doubt have high expectations about college-preparedness.
He was also principal of Woodbridge High School in Irvine, where he was known for expanding studies in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields, increasing access to Advanced Placement and honors courses, and supporting collaborative courses that included special-needs students.
And before that, as an assistant principal at Gunderson High School in San Jose, Viloria worked on a program to create a college-bound culture for what is considered a large at-risk population.
When Vilorias appointment in Laguna was announced last spring, one trustee praised his situational leadership.
What that means, I assume, is that every district, every school indeed, every student is different. Educators are at their best when they work to understand and address the very specific challenges and needs of the communities and student populations they serve.
When I met recently with Viloria I couldnt help but be charmed by one touch of whimsy in his otherwise modest, utilitarian office. He gave me the choice of sitting in a standard chair or on one of the soft, backless blocks facing his desk. I chose a block. As I sat and realized that it was also bouncy and unstable, I wondered momentarily whether Id be able to take notes as I struggled to keep balanced. Somehow I managed.
For the most part, Viloria is in an enviable situation in Laguna. For one thing, its a basic aid district, meaning that all of its funding comes from local property taxes, as opposed to other districts that receive supplemental funding from the state because the property tax base isnt sufficient to cover a set amount of dollars per student.
Being a basic aid district is mostly a good deal for qualifying schools, which are often located in relatively affluent areas with a high tax base. Newport-Mesa Unified is also a basic aid district.
But basic aid also brings its own set of challenges since property tax revenue can fluctuate dramatically, and any growth in enrollment must be covered internally, instead of by a state-funded, per-student formula. This means that sound long-term financial planning is paramount.
Costs go up every year, Viloria said. If the budget is flat, how do you keep programs going?
Another distinctive feature of LBUSD is that it is small. Indeed, Viloria noted that total enrollment at the district which has one high school, one middle school, and two elementary schools is only slightly larger than at Irvines Woodbridge High.
Being small can be advantageous. It can foster a greater sense of community and common purpose, and it can allow administrators and teachers to be more nimble and responsive to student needs. But it can also be a disadvantage, since small districts often lack the resources and scale to offer a broad range of choices for academic programs and activities.
Viloria said that Laguna often gets around such limitations through partnerships with other districts, and through a commitment to providing students with a full range of choices, from career technical education to Chinese studies.
We found a way, he said. Ive inherited a great system that values art, music, technical education and core subjects.
In addition to his focus inward, on school offerings, Viloria is also obliged to keep his eye on broader changes in education that will trickle down to the local level everything from standardized testing mandates to shifts in the state budget. One of the issues hes following closely is an upcoming U.S. Supreme Court decision on a case that will determine whether public schools must do more for students with disabilities.
It all ends up at the local level, he said.
And then there are the problems that crop up within the local student population that school districts inevitably must play a role in addressing, such as when LBUSD officials recently responded with disciplinary and education efforts after a racially charged incident involving Laguna Beach High students.
Like my efforts to steady myself on one of the bouncy seats in Vilorias office, local administrators are tasked with keeping balance in an unstable climate. Big changes might be afoot in education, but its always the local educators who matter most. Theyre the ones who must figure out how to make it all work in the communities they serve.
PATRICE APODACA is a former Newport-Mesa public school parent and former Los Angeles Times staff writer. She lives in Newport Beach.
This week I spoke with Huntington Beach resident Elizabeth Gilbert, who continues to seek justice on several fronts for her late husband, Newport Beach urologist Ron Gilbert, after his tragic murder in 2013.
Gilberts husband was shot to death in January 2013 as he entered his exam room of his medical practice by Hoag Hospital. He was allegedly killed by a first-time patient, Stanwood Elkus, 75, of Lake Elsinore.
Elkus was arrested, pleaded not guilty and remains in jail awaiting trial.
The case has had many delays, and Gilbert says on March 10 there will be a continuation hearing.
In addition to seeking justice, Gilbert is now fighting for her husbands legacy, the company he started and a product he developed, which she alleges in court papers has been stolen.
Before his death, Gilbert developed a premature ejaculation drug, Promescent, an FDA-monograph-compliant lidocaine spray available over-the-counter and marketed through his company, Absorption Pharmaceuticals.
On Feb 21, Gilberts widow and Absorptions CEO Jeff Abraham, filed suit in a Nevada federal District Court against Reckitt Benckiser, seeking more than $150 million in damages and demanding the corporate giant stop selling Duration, which the complaint alleges is too similar to the formula in Promescent.
When I lost Ron four years ago, I knew that his legacy, in addition to our beautiful sons, was the remarkable product he created to help couples who struggled with intimacy, Gilbert says.
She says her husbands lifes work was literally stolen out from under us.
Ive written about Abraham and Absorption Pharmaceuticals before.
In 2013 Abraham relocated from Huntington Beach to Las Vegas, because O.C. held too many memories of his friends senseless murder.
Since then weve become friends, and hes repeatedly told me his goal has been to grow the company, eventually selling it and ensuring the Gilbert familys financial future as his business partner intended.
When Reckitt Benckiser approached Abraham interested in buying Promescent in 2014, he thought hed finally achieved that.
We already had an exciting offer on the table valued at approximately $150 million for our business, but Reckitt Benckiser asked us to hold off because of its stated desire to acquire Promescent, said Abraham.
What is Reckitt Benckiser?
The companys roots date to 1823.
Headquartered in Slough, England, Reckitt Benckiser has operations throughout Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East and Africa.
Key brands include Durex, Gaviscon, Mucinex, Scholl, Frenchs, Lysol, K-Y, Airborne,, Clearasil, Air Wick, Calgon, Vanish and Woolite, as well as over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and products for hair removal, denture cleaning and pest control.
On Forbes list of the Worlds Most Innovative Companies, Reckitt Benckiser lists at No. 51, with market capitalization of $68 billion, 34,700 employees and $13.56 billion in estimated sales.
It was Reckitt Benckisers office based in Parsippany, N.J., that first contacted Abraham.
At Reckitt Benckisers request, we shared our proprietary sales, marketing and technical data as part of due-diligenceduring acquisition negotiations, he says.
In the complaint, Gilbert and Abraham claim Reckitt Benckiser never intended to buy their company, but instead intended to steal our proprietary information so they could launch a competing product using our marketing strategy and other trade secrets.
The complaint also claims Reckitt Benckiser tried to destroy Promescent as a competitor by having our listing on Amazon.com hidden from the general public and stealing shelf space at key retailers.
I reached out to Reckitt Benckiser for comment on the pending lawsuit and allegations. Lynn Kenney, North American communications director, called, saying due to the ongoing litigation she couldnt comment here, but at least I got a call back.
Id never heard of Reckitt Benckiser, but was surprised at how many of their products are in my home.
I dug a little deeper and discovered Gilberts not the only one questioning Reckitt Benckisers business practices.
In October 2016 Colorados State Atty. Gen. Cynthia Coffman and 35 other state attorneys general, including the one from California, filed an antitrust lawsuit against Reckitt Benckiser, the makers of Suboxone, a prescription drug used to treat opioid addiction, over allegations that the companies engaged in a scheme to block generic competitors and cause purchasers to pay artificially high prices, states the Colorado Attorney Generals website.
Attorneys general allege that consumers and purchasers have paid artificially high monopoly prices since late 2009, when generic alternatives of Suboxone might otherwise have become available, according to the site. During that time, annual sales of Suboxone topped $1 billion.
Gilbert and Abraham tell me theyve entered into a legal battle of David vs. Goliath proportions, but are committed to preserving Rons legacy.
BARBARA VENEZIA lives in Newport Beach. She can be reached at bvontv1@gmail.com.
With the April 4 municipal election only a month away, nine Glendale City Council candidates who hope to fill three vacant seats came together Wednesday to answer questions about local issues.
Challengers Mike Van Gorder, Vrej Agajanian, Susan Wolfson, Mark MacCarley, Mike Mohill, Grant Michals and Rick Dinger joined incumbents Ara Najarian and Zareh Sinanyan for a public forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters Glendale/Burbank in City Council chambers.
Candidate Onnik Mehrabian did not attend, but Sandi Cochran, logistics coordinator for his campaign, said later by email that he will attend future forums.
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After opening statements, each candidate answered a question given to them in advance whether they supported Measure L, which proposes implementing a three-year term limit, 12 years total, for City Council members. It will be on the April 4 ballot.
Every candidate at the forum said they would vote yes, with the exception of incumbent Najarian, who said it limits the choice of the voters during an election.
Later, candidates answered one question each, with the following two candidates seated next to them arranged by their names on the ballot able to give a shorter response to the same question.
Mike Van Gorder agreed when asked whether he shared a community sentiment that, when it comes to significant development in Glendale, the public-input phase is either inadequate or too late in the process, and he said he would like to strengthen the Design Review Boards capabilities.
In their response to that question, Agajanian and Wolfson said that they also are worried about rapid changes without proper feedback from the public.
Public input needs to be taken into consideration as early and ... given as much weight as possible, Wolfson said. The neighbors, especially to proposed projects, are the people who are going to be the most affected by those projects.
Sinanyan, MacCarley and Mohill gave their input about what incentives, if any, Glendale should consider to keep large businesses in the area, given the upcoming departure of food giant Nestle USA from the city.
Sinanyan touted his part in the citys technology initiative, which provides assistance and incentives to tech companies to come or stay in Glendale.
Mohill said the city needs to be more business-friendly, especially regarding what he said are high permit fees.
MacCarley said hed fight to make sure Glendale got its fair share of state money for incentives.
We have to make this city receptive to business, MacCarley said. Whether you like ... or dont like business, business is the engine that provides us with the money to do good among all the people here in Glendale.
Regarding a more national issue, Michals, Dinger and Najarian were asked if they would support a resolution declaring Glendale a sanctuary city for undocumented residents.
Michals said he supports the idea, adding that it was a matter of resources and he didnt see the need for Glendale to be involved in immigration raids.
Although Dinger said he is also worried about stretching law enforcement too thin, he said a sanctuary city might bring about problems in the long run.
Najarian said he agreed with a statement Glendale Police Chief Robert Castro made once that the department will not devote resources to tracking down undocumented citizens.
We have enough crime that were fighting in the city with the advent of the early release of felons from the state prison system and the county jail, Najarian said, referring to state Proposition 57.
The next candidates forum, sponsored by the Chevy Chase Estates Assn., is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Chevy Chase Library, 3301 E. Chevy Chase Drive, Glendale.
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Jeff Landa, jeff.landa@latimes.com
Twitter: @JeffLanda
Our best option, given the impending curtailment of the Affordable Care Act, is to enthusiastically support single-payer healthcare, or Medicare for all. We need to establish healthcare as a right, not a business. We also need to enable our single-payer plan to negotiate with the pharmaceutical companies and keep prescription drugs at a reasonable price. We need to do this now! Healthcare for all!
Mark Kausler
Glendale
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Richmonds not about truth
How does someone as lacking in self-awareness as Ray Richmond still have a column? Every other week its another juvenile temper tantrum in print. After eight years of the liberal media taking their marching orders from the Democratic White House and then during the election from the DNC (Donna Brazille gave Hillary the CNN debate questions), we are finally saying no to an oppressive media monopoly that slanted heavily left. They used Orwellian Newspeak and demonized anyone that wasnt part of their agenda.
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Example, if you believed in traditional marriage, the headline was anti-gay. If you believe a man should not be allowed in a womans room with young girls because one day he self-identifies as a female, you are called transphobic. Its leftist language like that which has caused a distrust; its totalitarian. Our way or youre a hater.
So Im sorry, Ray, you and your friends have nothing to do with shining a light on the truth, as you foolishly and self-righteously state. Where was the truth in the Michael Brown story that fueled a riot? He did not say, hands up, dont shoot. Where are the facts to debunk the false liberal narrative that all cops are racists gunning for unarmed black men? Nowhere. No truth, just propaganda. Agitprop. Read Heather MacDonalds book, The War on Cops for truth. She uses FBI stats from the Obama administration to shine real light on truth.
And anyone who thinks Im from the planet Fakecury is a clever turn of phrase does not deserve a column.
Stan Evans
Glendale
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Asking a simple question
Now that God gave us Trump, will that same God protect us from him and his ilk?
Theodore Polychronis
Glendale
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We need to get control of rent
From the year 2000 to 2014, median income in Glendale rose 28%, from $41K to $52K. But median home valuations have risen from $325,000 to $598,000 84%. With the greed and bailout of Wall Street, the younger generations and the working class saw the goalposts for the American dream slip further away.
So how can the working class afford to live in Southern California? Many of us have to rent. But renting in Glendale is an unprotected situation. Eighty percent of south Glendale rents and about a third are cost-burdened, spending more than a third of their income on their rent. And unlike a majority of Los Angeles County, Glendale has no rent stabilization ordinances. Landlords are free to increase their rents at will and some do. I met someone recently who was spending 70% of her income to live here. Another friends rent has gone up 30% in four years. Anothers has jumped, like clockwork, $100 every six months. How can renters develop roots in our community if its just as likely that the next park built, the next transportation center approved, the next improvement to our city sees their cost of living here skyrocket?
It is time that we establish these crucial protections, curb luxury development, and expand affordable- and market-rate housing. The American Dream isnt draining 30 years of retirement savings so your adult children can afford to live near you. The American Dream is understanding that we all must work toward being independent and sometimes, when the playing field has been tilted, we come together as a community to create a more equitable situation.
Mike Van Gorder
Glendale
Editors Note: The writer is a candidate in the April 4 Glendale City Council race.
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Residents need a say in rules
Upon reading the Forum section of the News-Press over the last few weeks, I felt compelled to state my position on the City Councils vote to approve the interim granny flats ordinance. The councils approval of the ordinance is the reasonable first step in response to Sacramentos latest mandate. Assembly Bill 229 is an attempt to meet the housing needs of Californias expanding population. However, what works in San Francisco or San Diego is often in conflict with the needs and desires of smaller communities like ours. Protecting Glendale and the Crescenta Valleys quality of life will require continual responses to the mandates of the county, Sacramento and our growing population.
I take seriously the opinion of Brian Ellis, who urges our council to institute the most restrictive limits possible and support staffs recommendation. I also share the opinion Peter Faud of the Northwest Glendale Homeowners Assn., who is quoted in the News-Press as saying Once these things are built ... they cant be un-built. However; I recognize there may be parts of our city where the guidelines of the interim ordinance may work.
I propose the eventual ordinance we accept should be designed by us, the residents of Glendale and the Crescenta Valley. Let each neighborhood input their needs, not those of Sacramento. Once a committee of residents (with the aid of city planners), not politicians or developers, have decided what is best for our neighbors, that becomes the City Councils mandate. Not the other way around.
As a council member I will support my neighbors, not the agendas of Sacramento or the proponents of unchecked development. My purpose for seeking a seat on the City Council is to preserve the quality of life of Glendale and the Crescenta Valley.
Rick Dinger
Glendale
Editors Note: The writer is a candidate in the April 4 Glendale City Council race.
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Impressed by Susan Wolfson
Whos the ideal candidate for the Glendale City Council? At this critical time, we need a financially sophisticated council member who understands Glendales pension fund obligations, the impact of its growing bond indebtedness and its economic options.
A week ago, I met Susan Wolfson for the first time at a meet-and-greet I hosted for my neighbors in the Brockmont Park Historic District. Wolfson is a CPA and after many years with the big accounting firms, she now works in La Canada Flintridges finance department. Shes a huge believer in transparency and letting the public see how Glendale collects and spends its revenues.
Shes also a proselytizer for what she calls financial sustainability. Its a bit of a buzzword, but an important concept in financial planning. Financial sustainability means planning with a goal of maintaining an entitys fiscal health and not having to stop operations because it has run out of money.
Treat yourself to hearing Susan at the next open forum or meet-and-greet. Youll be as impressed as I was.
Jaye Scholl
Glendale
La Canadas Jet Propulsion Laboratory may be involved in many space-related programs, including telescopes fixed on vast portions of the night skies, but theres a new constellation a little bit closer to home they might have overlooked.
Constellation Coffee, a specialty coffee shop owned by Kevin Kim, opened for business on Feb. 10 in a nondescript retail space at 468 Foothill Blvd. and has been brewing beans at a fast clip ever since.
To Kim, running a business is nothing new he and his family operated a Sbarro Pizza restaurant in Glendale Galleria for seven years before a mall renovation forced the shop to close in 2012 but the 39-year-old admits hes excited to share the art form of coffee cultivation, roasting and brewing with a community where corporate coffee purveyors mainly dominate.
There are so many different flavor profiles, the Glendale resident said. And theres so much to learn; there are different notes and different flavors, and so many great roasters popping up all the time.
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While there were aspects of the pizza franchise business Kim wasnt fond of, including working 362 days a year and seeing enormous amounts of food wasted, it was at Sbarro that he developed a strong work ethic and fell in love with customer service and making connections with customers.
As the years went on, Kim crafted a vision for the business he would someday open. He wanted something small and manageable, without a lot of overhead and waste, something that provided a real service.
A specialty coffee shop seemed the perfect fit. But there was a hitch Kim was hardly a coffee connoisseur.
Three years ago, thats when I started really appreciating black coffee, he said. Before that, I have to admit, I was a sugary cappuccino drinker.
To learn the humble bean from the inside out, he took a job at Found Coffee in Eagle Rock. Under the tutelage of owner Annie Choi, a former general manager at Demitasse Coffee Roasters in Santa Monica, Kim eventually became conversant in the language of specialty coffee.
Former co-worker and Found Coffee General Manager Jay Eusantos, who worked alongside Kim, said the entrepreneurs determination to learn the industry from the ground up was a good one.
There are a lot of cases where coffee shop owners dont have any coffee background. I think Kevin made a really good decision getting experience first, Eusantos said, adding theres likely to be a bit of a learning curve in La Canada. Now, hes going to have to help foster that coffee shop culture there.
Today, confident using the espresso machine, Kim has no problem brewing a number of specialty offerings. Constellation serves up the standard macchiatos, cappuccinos and Americanos, in addition to cold brews and pour-over coffees, brewed to highlight a beans individual flavor profile, as well as tempting snacks made by Los Angeles bakery Cake Monkey.
A recent visit found friend and specialty coffee expert Geli Espiritu hand-pouring a bright and fruity Costa Rican roast alongside a lavender Earl Grey tea. A former Found Coffee barista, Espiritu helped train a novice Kim, and said shes happy to see hes brought the same farm-to-table values and techniques to the La Canada shop.
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FOR THE RECORD
3/3, 12:32 p.m.: A previous version of this story stated Geli Espiritu worked as a barista at Found Coffee. She was temporarily helping out at that business while working as a barista and manager at other coffee houses.
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A lot of people think coffee is just coffee, she said. I consider this more of an art form.
Kim hopes Constellation will be a place where people can come and dream, connect with others and do creative things. Logos and quotes almost hidden throughout the shop support that ambition.
Everyone has their own cluster of stars. Everyone has their own niche or community, he said, explaining the name Constellation, created just for the La Canada location. But everyone is also connected.
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Sara Cardine, sara.cardine@latimes.com
Twitter: @SaraCardine
As an adolescent, I might have had a fascination for motorcycles, but I didnt. In New York City, motorcycles were an anomaly; to have missed something, one must know of its existence. However, in 1969, I learned about this remarkable machine.
The movie Easy Rider was the link that conjoined my endless fascination of freewheeling through experience and at the same time, smelling the roses. The protagonists travel the length of America on choppers, hybrid motorcycles with radical designs. Throughout the movie, the motorcycle is incidental to a plethora of plots; however, its the link that propelled Easy Rider to iconic status.
A few years later, Robert Pirsig published an intellectual masterpiece, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. The book described the authors motorcycle journey from Minnesota to Northern California. Pirsig weaves intricate analogies between the maintenance of motorcycles and a myriad of sophisticated philosophical discussions. The motorcycle is a supporting actor that defined the book as the bible for philosophical analysis during the 70s.
Pirsig expressed, Not everyone understands the rational process of motorcycle maintenance. They think its some kind of knack or some kind of affinity for machines in operation. They are right, but the knack is almost purely a process of reason. A motorcycle functions entirely in accordance with the laws of reason, and a study of the art of motorcycle maintenance is really a miniature study of the art of rationality itself.
I wanted to find someone who thought in the same dimension as Pirsig, someone who could intellectualize that propensity toward a meticulous attention to detail and see an engine as a spiritual entity. And then, one day I found him at Starbucks buried behind the morning paper, drinking a cappuccino. I met Judah Cashburn. Initially, we exchanged pleasantries, probably not more than a hi and bye. However, our discussions grew and eventually I found that Judah was a link between quality and reason, and its association with the incredible world of moving parts.
Judah is from England and is a retired mechanical engineer. His inspiration was Thomas Telford, the great engineer from the Victorian era. I live in the past, he said.
As a boy his fascination for mechanical things drove him toward steam engines, cars, locomotives, aircraft and motorcycles. Anything that looked exciting, he said. He explained there are hundreds of miracles happening within a single engine and there is a beautiful synchronicity of moving parts. Judah understands the spiritual significance of a machine, which is the core of Pirsigs book.
Engineering is a form of art and function which is echoed by the natural world, he said. Take a cheetah, for example, and note how it has evolved into animal of prey. Its evolution increases its function. I torture myself thinking of these philosophies, he said.
I had to think about that comment a few times.
Judah rebuilds old technology and has rebuilt assorted MGs, motorcycles and engines. If you want to meet mad people like me who love vintage machinery, go to England. The artistry of mechanics is fascinating, he said. There is much nostalgia in old things.
His latest passion is a priceless box of parts he recently purchased. Judah will reassemble one of the fastest and most aesthetically pleasing motorcycles ever manufactured, a Vincent. Its not merely the motorcycle, but its how he describes it.
I have the vision to see what most people cannot see. The Vincent is beautiful; its an iconic machine; it moves me.
So, Judah, what moves you about a Vincent? I asked.
He looked at me as though my question was perplexing.
I cant answer that, he replied.
--
JOE PUGLIA is a practicing counselor, a retired professor of education and a former officer in the Marines. Reach him at doctorjoe@ymail.com. Visit his website at doctorjoe.us.
An Alabama theatre owner is banning Beauty and the Beast because he doesn't want to expose his customers to the new gay character in the film.
Earlier this week, director Bill Condon revealed that the character of LeFou, played in the film by Josh Gad, would have an exclusively gay moment involving Gaston, who he idolises.
LeFou is somebody who on one day wants to be Gaston and on another day wants to kiss Gaston, Condon told Attitude Magazine. Hes confused about what he wants. Its somebody whos just realizing that he has these feelings. And Josh makes something really subtle and delicious out of it. And thats what has its payoff at the end, which I dont want to give away. But it is a nice, exclusively gay moment in a Disney movie.
The Henagar Drive-In Theatre announced its decision to cancel all screenings of the Disney film on Facebook today.
The post read: For those that do not know Beauty and the Beast is premiering their first homosexual character. The producer also says at the end of the movie there will be a surprise for same-sex couples. If we can not take our 11 year old grand daughter and 8 year old grandson to see a movie we have no business watching it.
It continued: If I cant sit through a movie with God or Jesus sitting by me then we have no business showing it. I know there will be some that do not agree with this decision. Thats fine. We are first and foremost Christians. We will not compromise on what the Bible teaches. We will continue to show family oriented films so you can feel free to come watch wholesome movies without worrying about sex, nudity, homosexuality and foul language. Thank you for your support!
The film is released in Irish theatres on March 17th.
A radical Polish European Parliament lawmaker has launched another sexist tirade, calling it a 20th-century stereotype that women have the same intellectual potential as men, and that the stereotype must be destroyed because it is not true.
Janusz Korwin-Mikkes comments in Warsaw on Friday came two days after he told the European Parliament that women must earn less than men because they are weaker, they are smaller, they are less intelligent.
The president of the European Parliament opened an investigation Thursday into those comments, for which Korwin-Mikke could face sanctions such as a reprimand, a fine or a temporary suspension.
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His latest blast came after he was challenged by female lawmakers during a visit to the Polish Parliament in Warsaw. Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, from the Modern party, accused him of offending women and said she would not allow him to do it again.
There are more women than men in Poland, were better educated, and I will not let you offend Polish women, European women and women all over the world. Its a disgrace, she told him.
Korwin-Mikke has a history of getting attention for outrageous comments, including comparing the EU to the Third Reich. In 2015, he raised ins arm in a Nazi salute to make a political point in the European Parliament, forcing the centrist government in Warsaw at the time to apologize and express shame at his behavior.
Korwin-Mikke heads a small party that won just under 5% of the vote in Polands last parliamentary elections, in 2015, not clearing the threshold need to win seats.
The bodies of nine men and two women turned up one morning this week on the outskirts of Veracruz, a major port city on Mexicos Gulf coast. Nude or partially clothed and bound at the ankles, the corpses showed the scars of torture and were accompanied by a sign: You want a war, youll get a war.
Authorities have not said whether they believe the bloodied bodies discovered Tuesday night were a warning from one drug cartel to another, or a taunt aimed at the Mexican government, which the same day had announced it was sending more federal troops to the state of Veracruz to combat a recent increase in killings there.
One thing is clear, however. More than a decade after then-President Felipe Calderon launched a crusade against drug cartels dispatching tens of thousands of soldiers onto local streets to battle gangs a drug war still rages, and the murder rate is once again rising rapidly.
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Last year, there were 20,792 homicides in Mexico a 22% increase over 2015, and a 35% jump over 2014.
This year has seen an unprecedented uptick in violence, with federal statistics showing nearly 2,000 people killed in the first month of 2017 more than in any January since federal officials began releasing crime data in the 1990s.
The Mexican government does not distinguish which deaths were tied to the cartels, but some crime experts have estimated that narco-violence could account for up to half of the overall numbers.
The surge in homicides has called into question Mexicos military-led drug war strategy, as well as the United States prominent role in the fight.
Since 2008, the U.S. government has appropriated more than $2.6 billion for the Merida Initiative, a partnership with the Mexican government aimed at disrupting organized crime and reforming Mexicos ailing police and justice systems.
Under the program, which was based on the principle that the illicit drug trade is a shared problem in need of a shared solution, the U.S. has sent Mexico more than half a billion dollars in new planes, helicopters and drug-sniffing dogs and has trained law enforcement in fields including firearms and forensics.
That support now appears to be in jeopardy, as President Trump seeks to slash foreign aid in order to increase U.S. military spending and looks for creative ways to pay for construction of a border wall.
Mexican leaders, who have bristled at Trumps boast that Mexico will pay to build the wall, have indicated that they are willing to live without U.S. aid, which represents a sliver of Mexicos total security budget.
Last week, Mexican Interior Secretary Miguel Angel Osorio Chong told a local journalist that the aid is not very significant, and said, We really do not have any problems with its withdrawal. In the 10 years since the U.S. and Mexico began the Merida Initiative, he said, Mexico has changed, grown, is more developed and stronger.
But the homicide rates portray a country still embroiled in an endless fight against organized crime that has left more than 175,000 people dead over the last 10 years.
A convoy carrying gendarmerie, civil and state police personnel arrives March 1 in Jalapa, Veracruz state, to strengthen security. (Eduardo Murillo / AFP/Getty Images)
Mexico first deployed soldiers, marines and federal police officers against increasingly powerful cartels because local and state police forces were viewed as too weak to do it themselves. In some cases, cartels had infiltrated police forces, with mayors and other officials in collusion, too.
The federal forces executed a kingpin strategy that targeted the cartel leaders, and one by one, powerful drug lords, including Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, were taken into custody or killed.
While many security analysts agree that federal forces helped stop Mexico from becoming a narco state, the strategy also unwittingly unleashed a wave of violence as would-be kingpins fought for control of the cartels.
In 2011, the most violent year in modern Mexicos history, 22,852 people were killed. Mexican officials sought to assuage concerns about the bloodshed, saying most of the victims were gangsters.
The homicide rate began to dip after that, dropping to 14,353 in 2014. Officials including Osorio Chong and President Enrique Pena Nieto heralded the statistics, saying they showed tide shifting in the governments favor.
But if the new uptick in killings holds steady, 2017 could be the deadliest year since the drug war began.
Osorio Chong has blamed the increase on elections last summer that unsettled the status quo when a new governors took office in a dozen states, but an analysis of statistics show an escalation of killings nationwide.
Murders rose in 25 out Mexicos 31 states in January compared to the same month last year, with the worst violence concentrated in Guerrero, Baja California Sur and Colima.
Colima, a state of just 700,000 people along a strategic drug route on the Pacific coast, had a murder rate of 116 per 100,000 people in January. That included the dozen bodies, some of them headless, that were discovered in one weekend in the seaside resort of Manzanillo.
By comparison, the homicide rate last year in Chicago, which Trump has likened to a war zone, was 28 per 100,000. For the United States, it was 5.
The city of Veracruz, where the 11 bodies were discovered Wednesday, also has been beset by violence, as the Zetas cartel battles for turf with the Jalisco New Generation cartel, which rose to prominence several years ago amid a power vacuum created when the Mexican government killed a leader of the Sinaloa cartel.
Decapitating criminal organizations has been shown, again and again, to exacerbate the violence, said law professor Catalina Perez Correa, citing a recent study that found that public shootouts involving the military increase the number of homicides in that municipality in both the short and long term.
Death and violence, perpetuated by criminal groups or by the state, have become part of our daily lives. Mexican law professor Catalina Perez Correa
Death and violence, perpetuated by criminal groups or by the state, have become part of our daily lives, Perez lamented in a recent column in El Universal newspaper.
The violence has become so normalized, most killings dont make headlines, said Perez, of Mexicos Center for Research and Teaching Economics. Even as the murders rise, there is little outrage among the Mexican public, she said.
Perez and others have sought to draw attention to a series of laws being considered by federal legislators that would extend the power of federal troops inside Mexico. One proposal would allow soldiers to take over local investigations when local police are deemed unfit to handle them.
The laws, which have been proposed by members of Pena Nietos Institutional Revolutionary Party, as well as members of the right-leaning National Action Party, are opposed by by many human rights activists. They say the military does not have the constitutional right to enforce public safety within Mexico, and point to a surge in human rights abuses since the militarys involvement in the drug war, including the alleged military execution of 22 suspected gang members in the town of Tlatlaya in 2015.
There have been documented cases of soldiers being involved in torture, extrajudicial killings, disappearances and many other human rights abuses, said Maureen Meyer, who advocates for human rights in Mexico with the nonprofit Washington Office on Latin America. But the worst damage, Meyer said, may be to the long-term effectiveness of Mexicos local law enforcement agencies.
Enlisting soldiers to fight gangs at the local level reduces the pressure on police and others to improve, Meyer said. Mexicos leaders have less incentive in making important and tough investments in improving security institutions.
Police and forensics secure an area Jan. 4 in Acapulco, after attackers reportedly got out of a vehicle and began shooting, killing six street vendors. (Bernandino Hernandez / Associated Press)
Jorge Chabat, a security expert at the Center for Research and Teaching Economics, said Mexico doesnt need more soldiers or more equipment but the rule of law, including a complete reform of its police and justice system.
The Merida Initiative includes money for such work the U.S. has helped fund updates to Mexicos courts system that have been widely praised but more improvement is needed, he said.
This is not a software problem, this is a hardware problem, Chabat said. The government launched security operations but they didnt do the other part of the job reforming institutions in a proper way and combating corruption. If you dont fix the state institutions, there is no security strategy that is going to work.
kate.linthicum@latimes.com
Twitter: @katelinthicum
Cecilia Sanchez from The Times Mexico City bureau contributed to this report.
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China announced last week plans to cut off imports of coal from North Korea. But the new UN report stated that China has proved a fickle partner at best in Washington's effort to stymie Pyongyang's nuclear ambitions.
According to UN report, that poses a fresh challenge to U.S President Donald Trump. But instead of low-key diplomatic spadework, Trump has sought to browbeat China into helping, blaming the Asian superpower with failing to use its influence to clip Pyongyang's atomic aspirations.
The eight member's panel committee report has stated that North Korea is flouting trade through prohibited goods. The North Korean schemes are combining to significantly negate the impact of international sanctions.
Chicago Tribune has reported that China, despite its apparent cooperation of late with international efforts to sanction North Korea, China has instead served as Pyongyang's economic lifeline, purchasing the vast majority of its coal, gold, and iron ore. China is serving as the primary hub for illicit trade that undermines a raft of U.N sanctions that China nominally supports.
The banks and firms of North Korean have maintained to international financial markets through a vast network of Chinese-based front companies that enables Pyongyang to evade sanctions. The trade includes the cash and gold bullion that allowing North Korea to gain ready access to the international financial system as well as to banks in China and New York, reported by UN.
However, till now, there is no direct evidence that the Chinese government is actively supporting North Korea's sanctions busters. William Newcomb, a former member of the U.N sanction panel on North Korea said," it is hard to believe China is unaware of the illicit trade".
Meanwhile, the UN report is expected to be made public next week. The report openly stated that North Korean regime continues its methodical effort to develop the nuclear military program and the means to deliver corresponding weapons.
Samsung just released a press articulation announcing its Galaxy S7 edge as winning the best smartphone award at Mobile World Congress 2017. That didn't occur. It actually is a false statement being projected by the company connecting it to the Mobile World Congress 2017 event. The actual story is completely different. This is the thing that actually happened, and Samsung ought to withdraw this public statement as it's deceptive and guileful.
GSMA is the trade organizing that hosts Mobile World Congress and consistently they have a honors service for accomplishments of the previous year. So during the current year's honors, the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge was designated close by the iPhone 7 Plus, Pixel XL, Huawei P9, and the Moto Z.
The Galaxy S7 Edge won The Best Smartphone 2016, which bodes well. Thus, whatever story that Samsung published was not completely true and it should be retracted by the company. However, that is not what Samsung said in an official statement. Samsung tried to show their S7 edge as the best smartphone in the MWC 2017 event which is clearly not true.
Samsung expressed that the Galaxy S7 Edge Named Best Smartphone at MWC 2017. Or, said in an alternate way, never mind Samsung terrible showing at the world's biggest mobile show; the S7 is the best phone here, reports indilens.
It has been contended that Samsung need not bother with MWC any longer. The organization can summon enough consideration from the business that it need not bother with a public expo group of onlookers to launch a gadget, reports susstec.
Samsung didn't dispatch a phone at the current year's Mobile World Congress like LG, Motorola, Huawei, BlackBerry, and Nokia. Rather, Samsung is holding an enormous occasion in New York City toward the finish of March to declare the Galaxy S8. At MWC, Samsung declared two tablets.
Greece is one of the few European countries that was lacking space agency. The country's minister of Digital policy, Telecommunication, and media Nikos Pappas has expressed the country's interest in going to space.
According to Bloomberg Technology, as a European country, Greek is not matched up with other countries in terms of Space research. The countries telecommunication and education minister expressed their interest that the Greek space agency will coordinate public and private institutions in order to make best capabilities in the sector of space satellite and application.
Nikos Pappas, an economic researcher in Strathclyde, Scotland have joined the Greek government in January 2015 and became telecoms minister. For the improvement of telecoms, he presented a draft bill in January for the creation of National Center for Space Application.
The internal report from Greek government reported the launch of the space agency is part of the Greek government's drive to stem the country's brain drain. Since 2008, the Greek Central Bank estimates around 427,000 educated Greeks people have left the country. The minister said the new agency will create numerous new jobs and also new opportunities to Greek scientists.
In the early summer, the Greek has launched of Hellas Sat 3 that will take its place on the Greek orbital position. The satellite will significantly broaden the Greek capacity to host satellite applications, both for the public and private.
The Greek government report has stated that it is not the first time Greece has attempted to conquer space in the era of the bailouts. The defense minister in 2013 Antonis Samaras' had also announced the government's intention to set up a space missile launch base in Kalamata, Southern Greece.
However, the Greek's new minister is also keen to promote start-ups as well as a space adventure. The Greek government has already spent around 400,000 Euros on its presence at mobile world congress in Barcelona.
Former Vice President Joe Biden and his family are currently garnering the limelight. His son, Hunter Biden, is the main hunt for paparazzi and not only he was involved with his brother's widow romantically, he also reportedly poured money down the drain with his reckless behavior.
According to Page Six, Hunter has been involved in nefarious doings and has frittered away the family's wealth on prostitutes, strippers, drugs and alcohol, according to the papers obtained by The Post. Kathleen, who is the current wife of Hunter, has now filed divorce papers last week following the lavish yet wicked lifestyle of her husband.
According to the papers filed in Washington, DC to the Superior Court on Feb. 23. Kathleen established that Hunter's spending is rarely linked with the family expense, rather the money is subjected to endless gifts for his sexual partners and his personal travel diaries. The family wealth is accumulated towards his own spending, which includes trips to strip clubs and womanizing with multiple hookers.
Continuing the embarrassing allegations, Kathleen is determined to limit her husband to a $5,000 monthly allowance. She is currently residing with the couple's three young girls in DC. She has also extended a list of her conditions which says that she, along with their daughters should be given a $20,000 monthly allowance.
The motion filed by wife Kathleen about Hunter claims that he has "created financial concerns for the family by spending extravagantly on his own interests" during their split. Allegedly, he spent $122,179 of their marital income in "less than two months."
Because of these reckless spending, Kathleen says that the family has reached their top budget and have gone past beyond their credit card limit. They are now under a tax debt of minimum $313,970, reports Perez Hilton.
While the marital woes are on the rise, Kathleen has also alleged her husband for lowering down her spousal income support by nearly $10,000. She has, however, altered the conditions and is asking for a much hefty amount for herself and daughters, allowing Hunter to be only left with $5000.
Hunter pulled off a shock when his romantic association with Hallie Biden came out to the public. While he was still in the process of divorce finalization with Kathleen, the love triangle allowed Hunter to be kicked out of the house on July 5, 2015.
Hallie became a widow when Beau Biden died after suffering from brain cancer in May 2015. Hunter and Hallie became a couple after gathering the blessings of Joe and wife Jill Biden.
Lost In France is a new documentary about a group of Scottish musical acts which, in the early '90s, decided to band together and travel to France for a music festival in a sleepy hamlet.
Mogwai, The Delgados, Bis and a number of acts made the journey back to France and reminisced about their experiences then and what they made of their time there, as well as where they are now.
We talked to director Niall McCann about his own background with the various bands, reflecting on their careers, the wider music industry and chopping down footage to make it into a cohesive story.
How did you come to get involved in making this? Were you a fan back in the day?
I met Aidan Moffat of Arab Strap after he played the Grand Social in the summer of 2012, I introduced myself and we stayed in touch. A few months later I travelled over and spent the day with him in Glasgow, discussing the music scene of the 90's there and his memories of it. Aidan mentioned this trip they all took to Mauron in France and something clicked for me. I had my way into the story. Unfortunately Aidan couldn't join us on the trip as he had his own film in production at the time but this allowed me to refocus and Stewart Henderson who was running Chemikal at the time became our main character in a way After that there was a lot of travelling back and forth to convince the guys to make the film with me...
I knew after meeting all of them that in order to get them to reflect on their lives and what they had achieved I'd have to take them out of Glasgow, the label was under serious financial strain when all this happened (the music industry has been enfeebled by file sharing and the drop off in album sales, which the film discusses) so I knew the last thing they'd want is to sit around Glasgow patting themselves on the back when the business they had spent 20 years or so building up from nothing crumbled before their eyes. That's what Mauron was about too, the trip back was a device to get them talking, to give them space to reflect.
So the film became about this trip back, with the label Chemikal Underground at its centre, Stewart, Emma, Paul and people like Alex Kapranos, RM Hubert and Stuart Braithwaite there to represent the wider scene too. What intrigues me about the Mauron trip is the normalcy of it. Every one of us can identify with the trip because most of us have had similar experiences. The film is first and foremost about people and we can all see elements of our own lives in their stories. It doesn't matter if you are a musicians or an artist or an accountant. You can see yourself in them. The trip also allowed me to draw parallels easily between the mid 90's and the present. A lot has changed. Changed utterly and this was a great way to highlight and discuss that change.
Was it difficult to bring everyone together? I know Alun Woodward from the Delgados wasn't involved, was there a particular reason for that?
These things are rarely easy especially when you are dealing with musicians. All their lives are very different now from what they were before, they have families etc but they were all so willing and open to the idea by then that it was more a logistical problem than anything to do with convincing them to come along. Filmmaking is very much like herding cats, you just have to hope the stars align and things go the way you had hoping but it's this unknown quantity which makes it magical also.
Alun had a number of personal things going on at the time which made it difficult for him to join us over there. As I said making a film with an ensemble cast has obvious difficulties which a narrative about one person would not. The Delgados were like a family and I know they all wanted him there. He looms large over the events in the film and is a felt presence, however it would have been great to have them all there.
I did imagine from the off that I would probably be making the film with a smaller selection of the people who went on the original trip rather than everyone who went first time round. so I knew I wouldn't be taking them all back. That would have been impossible.
One of the big things I noticed about the documentary was just how brutally honest everyone was, or at least seemed to be brutally honest. Was that the case and how did you get them to open up to you?
Trust. As a filmmaker I often feel this is the most important thing there is. I spent a lot of time with them all. Little by little they get to know you and vice versa. When I met Paul Savage we hit it off straight away, he was a big part in convincing everyone else to enter into the project. Pauls a great guy and once he was on board the rest could see I was on their side. Many people have tried to convince them to make a film before with no luck.
When you were filming the interviews, particularly the ones with Emma Pollock about her relationship with Paul Savage and so on, did you think, "OK, this is getting too close to the bone, I need to stop," or step back from?
Not at all if I'm honest. People know the story when you are interviewing them and if you've done the groundwork as a filmmaker and discussed the concept of the film, what you are looking for, where you are trying to go, the subject should be willing to go with you. People can also not answer questions if they don't wish to but I like to think I'm charming enough to get away with a few cheeky questions!
With something like this, it looks like there's a huge amount of available footage and anecdotes to wade through that you could potentially get lost in. Aside from the idea of the bands reuniting for this festival, was there a criteria for you what made it in and what was left out? How much footage did you have altogether to work with?
How much footage? How long is a piece of string? As you say with something like this you have all this archive, music videos, interviews, footage from the present etc. But what has struck me from looking back over the start of the edit and before was the blueprint Cara (the editor) and I sat down with, i.e. The treatment I wrote was actually quite close to where we ended up. I knew the bus journey back would be the spine of the film and that they would arrive there at the end of film so that dictates a lot.
It's then a case of killing your darlings and we had to lose so much great stuff, you always do. It's like torture. The criteria was no more than what worked best in the context of film and what fitting with what I wanted to say about the changing music industry, class, social welfare and the arts etc often the film dictates itself to you in the edit. It's a very transformative experience. Not always a pleasant one though! Hard to say exactly how much footage but definitely a 10:1 shooting ratio at least, probably more than that.
I'm thinking that this could have been a straightforward concert movie, but instead it became this sort of record of a scene and a time and so on. Did you set out with that in mind or did that come together in the edit?
Yes from the start I always wanted it to be a record of this Lost era which I don't think too many people are maybe aware that we lost. It was the trip to Mauron and the concert in Momos which was in many ways the icing on the cake. The gig being something we begin and keep returning to is something which became apparent in the edit more than anything else.
You have to be willing to change course and do what's right for the film. You are in service to the film. Not the other way around. I like how the gig in the film is like another gateway to the past. The past is all around us and you can fall into it if you are willing.
One big thing that struck was just how funny some of the anecdotes and characters were and how almost bawdy the humour was. Any story that didn't make it in to keep the rating or the like? Favourite story you heard?
There was a story about someone in our film knocking out a Loaded Journalist with a chair that we left out as the person asked us to. You need to be willing to engage in some give and take when you are making a film like this and be aware you are dealing with actual lives and people's own stories.
There were plenty of debauched tales from the trip and that time. Anything we left out was either out of respect for people who were not involved this time or due to lack of space in the film. There was another story about the bus driver who pops up a few times in the film. He just sat screaming at this old lady serving them dinner who didn't understand him, "do you have any [email protected]@king Malk" (Milk) eventually telling the bemused woman that it is "from a coo" (cow). I don't think he had any interest in the red wine they were serving.
Nothing was left out because it was too much, if I had put everything in I wanted it would be five hours long. Lost In France Redux. If it's good enough for Francis Ford Coppola, it's good enough for me.
Mar 3, 2017, 4:41pm ET
PSA completes deal for GM's Opel: Report
Opel has a new owner.
France's PSA Group has inked a deal to buy General Motors' Opel division, a new report finds.
After a couple weeks of back-and-forth negotiations, the board of PSA has reportedly agreed to purchase Opel, along with its British sister brand Vauxhall, from GM. Two inside sources told Reuters that the deal will be formally announced on Monday.
The exact details of the agreement are unknown at this time, but the two sides reportedly made progress on Opel's pension plan, which was underfunded by about $9 billion. The two companies had been bickering about who should be responsible for footing the bill.
PSA likely used a non-compete clause to help convince GM to pay more into the pension. GM had expressed concerns about PSA using Opel to compete against its Chevrolet brand in China. Insiders say PSA might have given GM assurances about competition in China to offset pension payments.
PSA is optimistic that acquiring Opel will save the company about $2.1 billion. GM, on the other hand, is happy to see Opel go after losing the company money for the last 16 consecutive years.
Mar 3, 2017, 8:57am ET
Uber backtracks on California showdown, will seek test permits
After arguing that its cars did not require permits, Uber initially killed its California test program rather than comply with state DMV demands.
California has apparently backed down from its showdown with California officials over permits for autonomous test vehicles.
The company brought its fleet of autonomous Volvo XC90 crossovers to California late last year, widening a development program for autonomous hardware and software systems that could be used for a future driverless ride-hailing service.
The first signs of trouble surfaced almost immediately after dashcam footage showed one of the company's prototypes running a red light. A carefully worded statement placed blame on the human driver at the time. The company later clarified that the vehicle had been operating autonomously, suggesting the driver simply erred by failing to take over manual control in time.
A separate issue soon emerged when California officials claimed Uber was operating its test fleet illegally, lacking the necessary permits specifically created for autonomous prototype vehicles. Raising eyebrows, the company claimed its vehicles were exempt because they were not yet capable of operating fully autonomously.
The $150 permit price was clearly not a deal breaker. Such vehicles are subject to unique reporting requirements, however, forcing automakers to log accidents and 'disengagements' of the autonomous system when the human pilot intervenes.
Uber has now decided to capitulate and seek permits to restart its autonomous testing program in California, according to Reuters.
The report comes just one week after Google's self-driving car division, now known as Waymo, filed a lawsuit accusing Uber of stealing and replicating proprietary hardware used for autonomous vehicles. If the lawsuit is found to have merit, the dispute could represent a significant setback for Uber's self-driving initiatives.
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Blaby has been named the third best place to live in the UK at least for people in their twenties.
UK's Best Place to Live, the Channel 4 show presented by Sarah Beeny, looked at the 50 most desirable places to live in the country.
Blaby came third in the country and led the way for the Midlands.
Only South Ribble, in Lancashire, and Warrington, in Cheshire, were placed ahead of it.
The show measured data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for 391 local authority areas across the UK.
Nine criteria were used, weighted differently according to how important they were to people aged 20 to 29.
The measures taken into account included affordable housing, jobs, transport, happiness and wellbeing, and life satisfaction.
Councillor Terry Richardson, leader of Blaby District Council, was delighted with the findings.
He said it also emphasised that Blaby was the heart of Leicestershire.
Coun Richardson said: "It makes me extremely proud to see our district named as one of the best places to live in the UK.
"We have worked hard to ensure the district is the best place it can be for people to settle down and enjoy their life in the area.
"We are fortunate to have major employers, high-profile retails outlets and affordable housing with transport links for residents to take advantage of."
At seventh and eighth place in the top 10 were Rugby and Warwick, the only other two Midland locations in the list. The north did well, with Cheshire being most popular overall.
The show is available on Channel 4's catch up service.
Top Ten places to live:
1. South Ribble
2. Warrington
3. Blaby
4. Copeland
5. Cheshire East
6. Ribble Valley
7. Rugby
8. Warwick
9. Lancaster
10. Cheshire West and Chester
Break out the glad rags, ladies, because theres a luxury trip to France on offer at Punchestown this year for the Best Dressed Lady.
The winner of the Bollinger Best Dressed prize will bag a VIP trip for two to the private Bollinger estate and its new champagne libraries in France, a two-night stay in Reims, the capital of the Champagne region, Michelin-starred dining and a luxury overnight stay in Paris plus a champagne lunch, a private chauffeur, business class flights
The Punchestown flat racing festival this year takes place from Tuesday, 25, to Saturday, 29, April.
To top it all off, the bubbles will be flowing for a year for the winner, as she will receive a 12-month supply of the famous Bollinger Special Cuvee.
The search for the Bollinger Best Dressed Lady will be held over the first four days of the Punchestown Festival, when judges and style scouts will be tasked with finding the most stylish ladies in attendance and selecting a number of finalists each day. The daily winner will then progress to the grand final on Ladies Day, Friday, April 28.
Finalists on each day will receive a 100 Topflight voucher, a bottle of Bollinger Champagne and other exclusive goodies, while the overall winner each day will also receive a custom-made Montgomery Millinery hat worth 250 and a 200 Topflight voucher.
Kildares Heidi Talbot is scheduled to play Kilkenny Tradfest 2017. Heidi who is originally from Kill, will play a very special gig on Sunday March 19 at Cleeres Bar and Theatre, Parliament St, Kilkenny at 8pm.
Heidi Talbot was born in Kildare and became a folk star in the USA as a member of the Irish American band Cherish the Ladies, and now lives in Scotland, where she is married to the celebrated fiddler and multi-instrumentalist John McCusker. With a background like that, its hardly surprising she should develop a style that switches easily between Celtic and Americana, but subtlety is Talbots magic ingredient.
From her gossamer voice to the delicate re-working of traditional and contemporary material that earned her rave reviews for her 2012 album Angels Without Wings.
The girl from Kildare, who spent several years in New York, slips effortlessly between musical worlds but retains a personal modesty rooted in traditional folk.
Kilkenny Tradfest, which is this year celebrating its fifth anniversary has again exceeded all expectations, with some of the countrys most influential and acclaimed musicians set to play in Kilkenny City over the St Patricks Day weekend.
Bulmers is once again the title sponsor at the festival and this years highlights include; Paul Brady (2017 headline act), Eleanor McEvoy, Ushers Island, Pauline Scanlon, Declan Sinnott and Vickie Keating, The Voice Squad, Mohsen Amini and Fourth Moon, plus breakout Irish traditional and folk band Beoga who have recently recorded two tracks for Ed Sheerans hotly anticipated new album, Divide.
Kilkenny Tradfest was recently awarded Best Small Live Music Festival at this years IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year Awards. The festival proudly showcases the very best of Irish traditional and folk music, in a variety of unique venues across Kilkenny city. This years festival is set to be bigger and better than ever before, with both free and ticketed events, theres something everyone can enjoy.
Commenting Malcolm Noonan, Kilkenny Tradfest Chairperson said, We are delighted to welcome Heidi Talbot to our festival. Heidi is an incredibly talented artist and we are honoured that she is part of our 2017 line up.
Mr Noonan continued, The festival is jam packed over the four days, and we are proud to present classic trad music, with contemporary blends as well. There really is something for everyone at Kilkenny Tradfest and without doubt it is the place to be this St. Patricks Day weekend.
Tickets for Heidi Talbot on Sunday 19th March are available from Kilkennytradfest.com for 15
All eyes are on China's two sessions, seeking clues about the future
Editor's note: Each year in early March, China's top legislature and political advisory body convene in Beijing for their annual meetings known as the two sessions. China Daily will present the highlights of the meetings, which run from March 3 to 15.
China's big annual two sessions political meeting could be one of the most important in recent years, given the uncertain international backdrop, according to experts.
Some 5,000 participants from the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the country's top political advisory body, will descend on Beijing for the event.
Observers around the world will be looking for indications of future policy from Beijing.
With the world's second-largest economy being a driver of global growth, the first of these will be the GDP target, which will be announced by Premier Li Keqiang when he delivers the Government Work Report on March 5.
Last year he set this within a range of between 6.5 and 7 percent, with the actual outcome being within that at 6.7 percent.
Most analysts expect the target to be set at a similar level, with the government placing strong emphasis this year on economic stability.
With President Xi Jinping committing China to globalization in his speech to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January, China's reaching out to the rest of the world through its Belt and Road Initiative is also likely to be center stage.
Beijing will host the Belt and Road forum for international cooperation in May, which will be attended by heads of state and government from across the world.
The two sessions meeting - the CPPCC opening on March 3 and the NPC two days later - is also the first since President Xi was confirmed as "core leader" in October as a demonstration of Party unity.
The meeting also has greater political significance this year, since the 19th CPC National Congress also takes place later this year, with the election of a new Standing Committee, China's top leadership body.
The new leadership will be responsible for driving reforms over the next five years, which is seen as a crucial period for their delivery.
Martin Jacques, the British academic and journalist and author of the best-selling When China Rules The World, believes there will be much greater international interest in the two sessions this year than in previous years.
"China is definitely now playing to a bigger gallery. The meeting has always had a following from the developing world but now it is the developed world that is looking to China," he says.
"The turning point was President Xi's speech at Davos saying he was committed to globalization. Never in my lifetime have I witnessed a Chinese leader so listened to in the West. It was a speech where people hung on every word. It came at a time when Trump's new strategy was to turn away from globalization."
The meetings begin as the government's attempts to stabilize the economy appear to be succeeding. China's Purchasing Managing Index (PMI), an official gauge of manufacturing activity, rose to 51.6 in February from 51.3 in January, according to data released on March 1.
Wang Huiyao, counselor of the China State Council, or China's Cabinet, who will be attending the meeting believes the GDP growth target will be kept at around 6.5 percent.
"I think they will keep this target for this year at least. There may be some adjustment on this over the next five years."
Rana Mitter, professor of Chinese history at Oxford University and director of the Oxford University China Centre, says many economists will be looking for indicators that policymakers are prepared to tackle some of the pressures building up in the economy.
"I think the leadership fully understands that if they don't deal with these soon they will be more painful further along the way," he says.
"They have to respond to both the increasingly high levels of debt and problems in the financial system, like shadow banking."
One of the government's central aims is to double 2010's GDP per capita income level by 2020 so that China can become a high-income country by the following year which marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party. To do this, the economy needs to grow by 6.5 percent in each of the next three years. Some economists have been skeptical about the narrow window of time left to achieve this.
Wang, however, who is also founder and president of the Center for China and Globalization, an independent think tank, believes there should be enough momentum to meet the goal.
"There could be challenges, but when the Chinese government sets a target, it always tries to achieve it. The new areas of the economy in e-commerce and technology are very strong. The government has placed great emphasis on innovation and reducing regulation on enterprises, which I think will pay dividends."
The meeting is also likely to look ahead to May's Belt and Road forum for international cooperation, which will be one of China's key events of the year.
Jonathan Fenby, leading China commentator and author of Will China Dominate The 21st Century?, says there is increasing interest in the initiative in Europe.
"It was initially seen as something that applied just to Central Asia and Southeast Asia, but with the rail line to Germany, European governments and companies see themselves very much at the end of the road," he says.
Jacques believes the Belt and Road Initiative reaching to Europe could provide the fillip the European economy now needs.
"It could open up Central and Eastern European countries, in particular, to greater Chinese investment, which could be the economic motor than Europe now badly needs."
Helen Hai, chief executive officer of the Made in Africa Initiative, a UN organization that advises African governments on industrialization and investment, says the Belt and Road is also important to Africa. The 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, which connects with East Africa, and is the sea-lane link of the initiative, is aimed at boosting trade between Asia and Africa.
"Initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank are about cooperating in economic development," he says.
"While Donald Trump is talking about bringing jobs back to the US, President Xi, as he did at Davos, is speaking the language of social inclusion and bringing development to the so-called bottom billion, the people in Africa who can benefit from this."
Derek Han, chairman of NSBO, an investment bank and China research company with offices in London and Beijing, agrees the initiative takes on a whole new meaning if the US retreats from globalization.
"With the Belt and Road Initiative China is stepping into a vacuum, whereas we have an inward looking United States. China looks as though it has a long-term plan and supports globalization."
The future of Asian trade blocs may also come under discussion at the meeting now that the United States has pulled out of the Trans Pacific Partnership, which has 11 other members, including Japan and Australia.
China has been expected to breathe new life into the RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership), which was launched at the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) summit in Cambodia in 2012.
Some of the TPP members are keen for China to take the place of the US within their grouping.
"I was talking with the Chilean ambassador the other night, and that is what they are hoping," says Wang.
"It is a trade deal that has already been negotiated and there is a good opportunity for China to move in."
Jacques believes the two sessions is likely to generate much more interest from those viewing, outside China.
"They will be looking for what China has to offer the world in the difficult times we are currently living through."
andrewmoody@chinadaily.com.cn
Representatives for attending the two sessions meeting arrive in Beijing on March 2. Jin Liwang / Xinhua Martin Jacques, journalist and author of When China Rules The World. Nick J.B. Moore / For China Daily
(China Daily European Weekly 03/03/2017 page1)
The High Court has refused to grant bail to a Kildare man charged in connection with a weapons seizure at a warehouse in west Dublin.
Jonathan Harding (44) of McNeill Court, Sallins, was charged last January at Dublin District Court with possession of five revolvers, ammunition and a silencer.
Today he appeared before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy at the High Court when his lawyers applied for bail under section 2(a) of the Bail Act, 1997.
Kathleen Leader BL, prosecuting, told the court that the State was objecting to the application.
After hearing evidence of his arrest and charge Mr Justice McCarthy refused bail. The Bail Act allows for a court to refuse a person bail if the court is satisfied that such refusal is reasonably considered necessary to prevent the commission of a serious offence by that person.
Detective Sergeant Paul Curran told the court that Mr Harding was arrested on January 24 last.
Mr Harding and two others are charged with possession of five handguns; a 357 Magnum six-shot, and four Smith and Wesson Rossi five-shot revolvers, as well as a silencer and 20 rounds of ammunition at a warehouse in the Greenogue Business Park in Rathcoole.
Michael Hourican BL, defending, submitted that his client worked as a mechanic and has two children living here. He said his mother and another man were prepared to act as independent surety for a total of 15,000.
Ive never met anybody who gave such truthful evidence in my life. Ive been working in the courts a long time, said solicitor Tony Hanahoe when he spoke of a witness who was involved in a west Kildare car accident.
Mr Hanahoe, who has been working as a solicitor for around 35 years, was speaking after the case against his client, Dominic Butler was dismissed, at Naas District Court on March 1.
Mr Butler (64), with an address at Timahoe, Coill Dubh, was charged with driving without due care and attention at Blackwood, Robertstown on May 20 2015 and after hearing the evidence, the charge against him was dismissed.
When the State called its main witness, David Baker, he told how he got off the Dublin bus at Blackwood on the day and, as he was crossing the road, how he was hit by Mr Butlers car. I saw nothing coming and then I got a belt, he said.
He described how his arm was broken, and required steel inputs.
Mr Baker said he was carrying a bag which was struck by Mr Butlers car and pulled him into contact with the car, which was coming from Dags heading towards Prosperous. Mr Baker told the court: It was my own fault.
He told Judge Desmond Zaidan he did not want to make a claim.
Judge Zaidan said: This man said it was his fault. Why is this man (Mr Butler) charged with the offence?
The court went into evidence of where Mr Baker was struck and Judge Zaidan accepted Mr Bakers version, which indicated it was his fault.
Mr Baker, who said he had five children, aged eighteen to three, said his broken forearm was not too bad now.
He said he had been drinking all day but recalled the accident clearly.
Judge Zaidan asked him why he was drinking all day, he replied that he had a row with a girlfriend.
He said he called his cousin, Alan Byrne, who took him to hospital but he had not been aware that Mr Byrne had made a statement to the Gardai about the accident.
Mr Baker told Mr Hanahoe that his bag had pulled him to where he was struck by the car on the cars passenger side. Im telling the truth. Im not holding anything back.
The court was told that when Gardai arrived at the scene, Mr Baker had been taken to hospital.
Judge Zaidan said that given the evidence it was more man hitting car than car hitting man and dismissed the charge.
He wished Mr Baker would get well.
Mr Hanahoe said that in his unprompted direct evidence, Mr Baker accepted that it was his fault. Ive never come anybody to give such truthful evidence in my life. Ive been in court a long time.
There are no plans to close Newbridge Greyhound Stadium, according to the Irish Greyhound Board (IGB).
After it announced the closure of Harold's Cross track, there had been speculation locally that the Newbridge track might be in danger.
However, this week the IGB ruled out any further track closures as a means to achieve recovery in the industry.
IGB chairman, Phil Meaney, said the board believed the widespread footprint of the industry was one of its great strengths.
Increased participation at all levels in the industry is essential if we are to meet the considerable challenges the industry faces and tracks around the country are an essential resource in doing this, he said.
Tracks outside the main population areas play a very important role in the industry, which is not always understood and are the primary basis through which the dog pool can be maintained and ownership increased.
He added: The decision to close and to sell Harolds Cross Stadium, although difficult for everyone involved, is designed for a specific purpose which is to reduce the level of legacy debt, which the industry is trying to manage. The sale of the stadium is essential if the industry is to stabilise its finances and enter a more positive phase .
According to the latest figures released two weeks ago, a total of 635,289 customers visited greyhound racing meetings during 2015. Average attendance per meeting in 2015 was up 4 per cent on the prior period. The IGB also reduced its long standing debt by 1.35m. At the end of 2015, net group debt stood at 21.6m.
The IGB is reporting an operating surplus before earnings, before interest, taxation, depreciation and defined benefit pension costs, of 2.3m for 2015, an improvement of 1.6m over 2014 accounts.
A 32 year old Kildare teacher is on a mission to raise funds to important medical treatment not available in Ireland.
Gemma Kearns, from Ardclough, a special education teacher at St Raphaels in Celbridge, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of nineteen.
She has been accepted to go to Puebla in Mexico for a treatment which is not available in this country. But it costs 75,000 for the month long session, starting on July 17 coming, and the health insurance she pays does not cover that, she told the Leader.
Gemma said there are no medications available in this country that can stop the progression of the disease and the health care system in Ireland will not financially support this treatment.
She believes that HSCT, a stem cell transplant and chemotherapy treatment, can halt the progression of MS and allow her to live a life free from MS.
A Strictly Come Dancing event is being held in City West Hotel on March 11, to raise funds for her. There is also a draw for a Renault Kadjar car.
A number of couples from Ardclough and St Raphaels are involved in the dancing
Gemma was diagnosed with MS in 2003. The nurse specialist sat across from me and told me that it is certain without treatment I face a bleak future in relation to my health. She has called it 'luck' that I am still functioning as I am, said Gemma who has been teaching in St Raphaels since 2008.
Living with her partner in Ardclough, she said she has given up on many opportunities, including starting a family, to minimize undue stress to herself and possible children. This treatment is the one opportunity that I cannot let pass by.
You can contact Gemma on 086 8110185 or email: gemmakearns5@gmail.com or go to www.gofundme.com.
Leitrim library has several events lined up to celebrate Seachtain na Gaelige this year (1-17 March). We hope you will find something of interest and join us. All events are free. Beidh cead mile failte romhaibh.
We begin with local musicians and writers who will entertain us in Manorhamilton library on March Thursday 9 March at lunchtime (1-1.45), and again at the same venue on Thursday, 9 March (1-1.45). The writers will read from their work which was published recently by Coisceim in two volumes Scriobhneorai Cois Teorainn.
There will be ceol, craic, agus comhra in Ballinamore library on Monday, 14 March at 8.00, and there will be classes for those preparing for the Leaving Certificate oral exam for six sessions beginning Friday, 10 March in Manorhamilton library (1.15-2pm).
There are also several closed events for primary school children. Carmel Kelly will read from her books and entertain children from local schools in the Manorhamilton and Mohill areas. Seamus Mac Annaidh will be in Carrick-on-Shannon library to read to some of the children attending classes in Scoil Mhuire, and there will be a scavenger hunt for children from the after-school in Mohill library.
We look forward to welcoming you. Plenty of Irish books to borrow from all Leitrim libraries this Seachtain na Gaelige, and all year around. We also have materials for those interested in learning the language.
For more information about any of these events, please contact the relevant library. Keep an eye on the local notes, and posters in the libraries for any changes to the programme outlined here.
Former Justice Minister and Attorney General, Senator Michael McDowell has been added to the list of speakers addressing this Fridays Michael Collins commemorative lecture in The Bush Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon.
Senator McDowell is one of the leading authorities on the history of this period; his grandfather, Eoin MacNeill, was the leader of the Irish Volunteers at the time of the 1916 Rising and Minister for Education in the first Free State Government.
The special commemorative evening marks the visit of Michael Collins to Leitrim and the North-West region, will begin at 8pm and has been organised by members of the Michael Collins Carrick-on-Shannon branch of Fine Gael, with the support of the Collins 22 Society.
The meeting will be chaired by former Deputy, Senator and member of Leitrim County Council, Gerry Reynolds.
The meeting is open to all members of the public with the emphasis very much on the history and heritage of that period.
Among the other speakers at the event are Mohill native Padraig McGarty, Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Technology Tralee, Margot Gearty from Longford, a niece of Kitty Kiernan, the fiancee of Michael Collins and Gerry OConnell, one of the founders of the Collins 22 Society.
Local ladies Eleanor Smith and Elsie Harman will sing on the night while Ava Brogan will play the harp at various stages during proceedings with pieces from the Macalla 1916 suite while performer Jim Roche will deliver a Michael Collins oration in full military dress.
Tickets, priced 10 are available from The Magnet, c/o Cllr. Finola Armstrong-McGuire, Kierans Total Health Solution Pharmacy, and Mulveys House of Gifts, all of the aforementioned outlets are located on Main St., Carrick-on-Shannon. Also from Kierans Total Health Solution Pharmacy, Mohill.
Tickets are also available on the door, on the night with doors opening at 7.30pm.
Many of you will have read Kate Atkinsons novel, Life After Life. If you havent, I recommend it. On one level, it is a story of alternative realities, but its real theme is war. In chapter after chapter, the central character, Ursula, meets a different untimely end. Each time, this is followed by a chapter in which, in an alternative reality, the tragedy is averted, and Ursula lives longer, on borrowed time. Perhaps we are all Ursula, in one of her more fortunate realities. Im sure I am.
I was born in the early hours of the 9th September, 1962. I had picked an inauspicious moment. Within a few hours of my arrival at Epsom District Hospital, a consignment of Soviet ballistic missiles had arrived in Cuba. This led, when I was a month old, to a confrontation between the USA and the USSR, which came close to leading to nuclear war.
On this occasion, disaster was averted. But my friends and I grew up with deadly Soviet weapons aimed permanently at us. Meanwhile, our government had equally deadly weapons aimed permanently at Russian children.
On 26th September 1983, a couple of weeks after my twenty-first birthday, the world again came close to nuclear war. This time, by a complete accident. The Soviet satellite early warning system appeared to detect five missiles from the United States heading towards the Soviet Union. The officer in charge at the time, Stanislav Petrov, would have been expected to report this to his superiors. Had he done so, a retaliatory strike might have been ordered, almost certainly leading to full scale nuclear war. But Petrov chose to wait and see. And it turned out the system had malfunctioned. Petrov may have saved millions of lives.
My children were born in 1992, into a world apparently much safer than the world into which I was born. Europe was no longer divided by a wall. The cold war was over. But on January 25th 1995, the world again came close to nuclear war. Norwegian scientists launched a rocket carrying scientific equipment to study the aurora borealis over Svalbard. The rocket was detected by the Soviet early warning system, and mistaken for a Trident missile. President Boris Yeltsin was informed, and Russian submarine commanders were ordered to prepare for retaliation. Fortunately, just in time, it was discovered that the rocket was heading away from Russia.
My family and I, and everyone I know, have been luckier than could reasonably have been expected. We have survived, against the odds, despite the decision of every British government in my lifetime that Britain should continue to possess nuclear weapons. Because of this decision, we would have been a target in 1962, in 1983, in 1995, and still would be today. The choice of successive governments to retain nuclear weapons has nothing to do with any evidence that this makes the people of Britain safer than the people of, say, Switzerland, and has everything to do with making Britain appear to be still a world power.
I long to see a world free of nuclear weapons. But a Britain free of nuclear weapons would be a step in the right direction. I want to see my country find the courage to lead the way, and renounce these terrible weapons, the use of which would be the ultimate war crime.
Something must be done, and done quickly, before our borrowed time runs out.
* Catherine Crosland is a member in Calderdale and joined the party in 2014
Donald Trumps economic policy can best be described as guns, butter and bridges.
At the moment the United States ratio between its public debt and what it earns as a country every year is 104.7 percent. That means the government owes 4.7 percent more than the country earns.
If America was a business or a private householdthe bank manager would be strongly advising Uncle Sam to earn more money and/or cut expenses or file for bankruptcy.
Now, Donald Trump wants to increase defence spending by ten percent, maintain welfare spending, spend trillions on improving American infrastructure and cut taxes.
Cash to pay for this will come from increased revenues from a stimulated economy, revised trade and defence deals with other countries, cuts in environmental programmes, the diplomatic corps and foreign aid.
Can he do it? Well lets take a quick look.
Improve Infrastructure America has plenty of roads, bridges, railways, ports and airports. It just needs to maintain what it hasbut that will cost plenty. The American Society of Civil Engineers reckons that $3.6 trillion needs to be spent by 2020 just to maintain existing infrastructure.
Maintain Welfare Spending 70 percent of the federal budget goes on welfare. A big chunk of Trumps support is at the bottom end of the ladder. He cannot afford to cut welfare spending, especially if Obamacare is for the scrap heap.
Cut taxesIt sounds simple. Cut taxes, business expands and employs people who pay more taxes which means more spending money for Trump. But even if the plan works, it takes time. So more money has to be borrowed until the extra revenues materialise, if they do.
Revise trade deals and increase tariffsTrade Agreements require the agreement of at least two parties. If one sidewe will say Americadecides to unilaterally raise tariffs then rest assured that the other will retaliate. The clear result will be higher consumer prices.
More money from AlliesHe who pays the piper calls the tune. American generositywhich is not as generous as Trump claimsallows it to call the major shots on policies of its Asian and European allies. There are already growing movements in both regions to develop defence policies that allow Japan and Europe to have foreign policies more independent of Washington. Demanding more money will increase that shift.
Increase the Nuclear Arsenal SALT I, SALT II, ABM, NNPT, INF, CTBT, and START; all acronyms for nuclear agreements which took decades to negotiate. All designed to drag the world back from the abyss of the most frightening acronym of allMAD or Mutual Assured Destruction.
Wipe out ISIS How? It sounds so simple? But how do you destroy a religiously-inspired hydra-headed monster that pops up in another unstable part of the world every time you have crushed it somewhere else? The sword is not enough, which brings us to
Cut diplomacy and aid budgetSurely Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia and Libya have taught analysts that militarily overthrowing regimes and walking away results in political vacuums which are filled by even worse alternatives. Diplomacy, trade, foreign aid and the military must work hand in hand to either prevent war or repair war damage so that fresh conflicts do not occur. Overemphasis on the military creates a destabilizing and extremely expensive downward spiral.
In the 1960s President Lyndon Johnson launched his Great Society. At the same time he threw America into an open-ended and ultimately disastrous war in Vietnam. Guns and butter, he called it, and he assured the American peoplewe can afford it. We are rich. Successive American presidents have had to grapple with his economic legacy ever since
* Tom Arms is foreign editor of Liberal Democrat Voice and the author of The Encyclopedia of the Cold War and the recently published America Made in Britain that has sold out in the US after six weeks but is still available in the UK.
China's National People's Congress (NPC) and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) are underway. Referred to as the two sessions, these annual legislative mechanisms primarily set the agenda for the nation. By extension, these meetings are crucial for Africa on several fronts, by dint of the fact that China has been Africa's leading trade and economic partner for nearly a decade now.
African expectations during the two sessions can be viewed through at least two prisms: global and continental. At the global level, Africans will be looking at the plans that Chinese leaders have for the enhancement of the already robust relations.
Why? A number of geopolitical dynamics portend pessimism for Africa's engagements with the West. Key among these dynamics is the recent election of Donald Trump as the US president. Around Africa, reality is setting in that Trump's "make America great again" mantra will see to the fizzling out of developmental aid, a drastic cutback on humanitarian support and the rolling out of unfavorable export-import regimes.
Taken together with rising nationalism in Europe - Brexit is a good example - these developments leave China as one major global power with which Africa can forge ties. Evidence suggests that China will be stepping in to plug the economic, political and cultural gaps that the anticipated departure of the US and parts of Europe portend.
Rather, it is the form and nature of Africa-China intersections that Africans await over the course of the two sessions.
From the initial consternation over Trump's upending of Obama's Africa policy, African political and thought leaders are seeking alternatives with China, which is a natural ally in many respects. Will the Chinese leaders send signals on how Africa and China can forge ahead, undeterred by Trumpism?
Multilateral and bilateral relations between Africa and China have grown apace over the past two decades. As such, and unlike the global sphere, it is expected that the NPC and CPPCC will build on the huge number of Africa-China engagements, unencumbered by uncertainties.
Granted, schisms over certain issues break to the surface from time to time. The point of departure is that problem areas such as trade imbalances, wildlife poaching and cultural incongruences are continuously being negotiated and treated as works in progress with evolving redress mechanisms in place. At any rate, China is seen as a major partner in the achievement of the continent's long-term development plan.
A reading of the key African and Chinese policy documents demonstrates aspirational similarities. Under the African Union's Agenda 2063, Africa looks to become a prosperous region, having kicked out the scourges of disease, war and poverty.
China on the other hand aims to be a moderately well-off nation in 2021 and a modern socialist nation in 2049, the centennial of the People's Republic of China.
Various factors make it imperative that the learning curve in pursuit of these ambitious plans arcs from China to Africa. China is praised globally for overcoming the developmental challenges that Africa grapples with. African policymakers and researchers will, therefore, be looking at the models and approaches that Chinese leaders will be putting in place to advance the Chinese economy.
But beyond merely learning lessons from the Chinese "developmental state" approaches, Africans will be analyzing the decisions reached at the two sessions with an eye on the implications for Agenda 2063.
To my mind, the most important Agenda 2063 aspiration is the integration of a continent that is disconnected on account of patchy cross-border transportation infrastructure. Through railways, roads, seaports and aerospace, China has made a contribution toward seamless movement of goods. The Chinese metaphor "If you want to develop, build a road" is today appreciated as an existential requirement for Africa's development in virtually all economic spheres. Africans will therefore be keenly looking for indications on how China intends to intensify investment in cross-continental development of infrastructure, in furtherance of the Agenda 2063 integration goal.
Of particular interest will be the African dimension of China's Belt and Road Initiative - the Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. Maps show that the initiative links to Africa via the East African seaboard, but many Africans familiar with the strategy might have wished it had been articulated as well as it has been for Asia and Eurasia.
Far from being a strategy for the development of maritime and terrestrial transport infrastructure, the Belt and Road is a comprehensive plan. Its implementation includes investment in manufacturing entities, technology transfer, diverse cultural projects, cooperation at the political and governance level and trade.
When linked with the Forum on China Africa Cooperation, the initiative can aid the long-held dream of Africa as a prosperous continent. It will be interesting to see the ways in which the two sessions link the Belt and Road, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and Agenda 2063.
The writer is a postdoctoral fellow at University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, and a researcher for the Wits Africa China Reporting Project. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
(China Daily European Weekly 03/03/2017 page9)
A DROP of Baileys liqueur in her coffee every night could be the secret to the longevity of Bridie MacNeil, who has celebrated her 105th birthday.
The fierce will, good humour and strongly held principles of the Glin lady could be other reasons, as she is among the few to have turned down a gift of 2,540 the centenary bounty from President Michael D. Higgins upon reaching her milestone birthday.
She is one of just fifteen 105 year-olds in the State, according to the office of the President, which awards the centenarian bounty for those aged over 100.
Bridie MacNeil (nee McNamara) was surrounded by close friends and family in the Oaklands nursing home, just outside Listowel in north Kerry, as she celebrated her 105th on St Valentines day, February 14 last toasting the occasion with her tipple of choice Baileys.
The third eldest in a family of nine, she has now outlived her fellow eight siblings.
She loves a drop of Baileys, her niece Breda Culhane told the Limerick Leader. She has it in her coffee at night. She says it helps her sleep.
She never smoked, has a great appetite, isnt fussy about food, and loves her dinner. She has always loved reading Maeve Binchys novels, but has given up on watching the soaps on TV, she added.
Having lived in America and Canada for over 80 years, Bridie felt that she wasnt entitled to or deserving of the once-off gift bestowed on all Irish citizens aged 100 and over, she explained.
While her family submitted the relevant documentation for her to receive the bounty, Bridie declined to accept it, even when a clerical officer travelled to west Limerick to confirm she was still alive and had reached 100.
Instead, Breda said Bridie adored her American passport, and cherished receiving a letter on her birthday from the American Embassy in Dublin.
She said Bridie grew up in an era when people werent entitled to things for free, which was especially ingrained in her when her mother was widowed when her youngest child was nine months old.
She often speaks about meeting Rose Kennedy in Boston, and she has great to mollycoddle the young Irish priests when she met them in the big houses.
Even at 103 she kept saying she wanted to go back to America, but when she was there she always spoke about coming home to Ireland. She always described herself as an Irish-American, she said.
After working in factories in Boston, and as a chaperone to wealthy families, she married in her 50s, had no children, and moved the 660 miles away to Nova Scotia, where her husband, Don MacNeil, had a farm.
Born in Cahara, Glin, in 1912, Bridie returned home to west Limerick after the death of her husband in 2002.
Aged 17, she boarded the RMS Carinthia in 1928 a British Cunard Line passenger ship which was later sunk in 1940 along with her sister Anne, as they sought to find a better life in America.
After spending 30 years in Boston, where she met her husband, they moved to Nova Scotia in Canada, and lived there until his death 15 years ago. Her sister Anne, who made the life-changing voyage with her, married an Italian and lived in Boston all her life.
When she moved home, Bridie lived with her niece Breda and her husband Jack Culhane at Cahara until four years ago.
A spokesperson for the Presidents office confirmed that as of May last, their most recent available figures, there were three 108 year-olds living in Ireland, four 107 year-olds, and fifteen 105 year-olds.
In 2016 the office awarded bounties to 241 people in Ireland aged 100 or over, and a further 176 Irish born nationals living outside the State, totalling 417 Irish people aged over 100.
In 2015, there were 404 Irish people aged 100 or over awarded the once-off bounty of 2,540 once they reach the centenary landmark.
They included 214 people living in Ireland, and 190 living outside the State, predominantly in the UK and the US.
The oldest known living Irish person was 113-year-old Kathleen Snavely, from Feakle in Clare, who passed away in New York in 2015.
There are currently no reported living supercentenarians those aged 110 or over -from Ireland.
THREE men who are accused of threatening and intimidating a potential State witness in a firearms case are to stand trial at the Circuit Court.
Tyrone McMahon, aged 30, who has an address at Raheen Square, Ballinacurra Weston; Leon McNevin, aged 32 of the Steeples, St Laurences Road, Chapelizod and Ciaran Griffin, aged 26 of the Steeples, Ballyfermot each face a single charge relating to an incident at Raheen Square on April 27, 2016.
After books of evidence were served on each of the defendants at Limerick District Court, Sergeant John Moloney said the DPP consented to the matter being sent forward for trial at Limerick Circuit Court.
While Mr McNevin and Mr Griffin were remanded on continuing bail, gardai objected to a bail application made by Mr McMahon,
Detective Garda Fiona OConnell said it will be alleged that Mr McMahon called to a neighbour of the potential witness and spoke to her after she was requested to attend the house.
Detective Garda OConnell said it will be alleged he offered her money to withdraw her statement relating to a shooting incident which happened in September 2015.
She said it will also be alleged that he asked her give evidence in court that she was stoned off her head when she made her original statement.
The detective said she believes the defendant will make further attempts to intimidate the woman if released on bail.
She alleged Mr McMahon is a volatile and dangerous individual and she told the court she believes he as access to firearms.
Judge Marian OLeary was told the defendant was previously granted bail but that it was recently revoked by the High Court after it emerged he flew to the UK in breach of his bail conditions.
Solicitor Tom Kiely said his client had returned to Ireland the following day and was not trying to evade the authorities.
He said Mr McMahon disputes the allegation that he has access to firearms and he told the court he would abide by any and all conditions if granted bail.
Judge OLeary said she was refusing bail in the circumstances.
CRIMINALS trying to break into a house with a slash hook fled after a 93-year-old Limerick man fired his shotgun over their heads.
The elderly man, who lives on his own in the Kilfinane / Ballylanders area, heard his door being kicked in late at night. The perpetrators then smashed two panes of glass in the door and a light, with a slash hook.
It is understood the bachelor then warned them he was armed. Undeterred, the burglars then moved to a front window, broke it and, as a hand reached in to open the latch the 93-year-old shot over the intruders head. The assailants then ran from the scene.
One of his neighbours told the Leader: He fired that shot into the air to save his own life. He is some man to do it at his age. If he hadnt he could have been like that poor man in Waterford at the weekend.
A young man was charged this Wednesday with the murder of 90-year-old Paddy Lyons in his isolated farmhouse in Lismore. Locals also spoke of John ODonoghue in Doon, who died of a heart attack in 2015 after he returned home to find a gang ransacking his rural home.
The incident in Kilfinane / Ballylanders occurred on Tuesday, February 21 at around 10pm. Neighbours say the victim has been very disturbed by it and hasnt been sleeping well at night since.
Deputy Niall Collins said the local community is very shocked at these events and the ordeal he suffered.
This man fired into the air, as a warning, which is his right to do. They fully support him and many expressed the view to me that they would like to have seen these intruders shot on site, said Mr Collins.
Attacks like this on rural communities are endemic of the gutting of rural Ireland by Fine Gael. With the closure of rural garda stations, and reduced garda presence in our towns and villages, criminals are being emboldened to be more daring. It seems that the victims of crime often play second fiddle to the needs of criminals, he added.
Chairman of the Cappamore-Kilmallock municipal district, Cllr Eddie Ryan said what happened to the man in his nineties was so close to the situation in Waterford.
The result here is different and better thank God. This man is an honest, decent, hard-working man, who worked hard all his life. He is now in his retirement, enjoying his old age and the fact he cant be left to live in peace It is the lowest of the low, said Cllr Ryan.
The victim of the attempted burglary must be saluted for defending himself and his property, said the councillor.
For a man of his age, of any age for that matter, the action he took was very brave and he has to be saluted for it. His neighbours are upset and outraged at what has gone on in this community, said Cllr Ryan.
He says it highlights the necessity for more guards in the Bruff district which is the size of County Louth.
They are short of manpower, they are short of good vehicles to do the job that we are depending on them to do. We have no garda station in Galbally, no garda station in Kilfinane. We are a massive stretch of ground with no police presence, said Cllr Ryan.
A spokesperson for the Garda Press Office said: Gardai are investigating the circumstances surrounding a burglary incident in the Ballylanders / Kilfinane area on February 21 at approximately 10pm. No arrests have been made.
It is not known how many assailants there were. Anybody who has information that may help the investigation is asked to contact Bruff Garda Station on 061 382940.
Repairs have been made to the house and extra security has been installed this week - including a personal alarm - as the 93-year-old attempts to get on with his life after the frightening experience.
THE Court of Appeal has rejected an appeal by a Limerick man against his conviction for murdering a 71 year old retired soldier in March 2011.
Christopher McNamara (24) of Good Shepherd Villas, Pennywell road in Limerick had denied the murder of James Boyce at St Munchin Street, St Marys Park in Limerick between March 6 and March 7, 2011.
The two-week trial, in January 2014, heard that McNamara had confessed to the killing of Mr Boyce to his mother.
McNamara and the deceased were friendly with each other despite the significant age gap between them. The younger man 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 following an hour-and-a-half of deliberations. He was given the mandatory life sentence by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan on January 24, 2014.
It was the prosecutions case that this was a robbery that went wrong. The deceased was not a spender, he lived a frugal life and it seems kept his savings in his home.
Much of the trial was devoted to tracking McNamara's movements on the night in question and in the period after the murder to establish that, although a person of limited means, he had access to large sums of cash.
Mr Boyce had been the victim of an assault with a long striking edge. The fatal injuries were those on his neck where multiple fractures of the larynx were found.
Defence counsel stated that the only issue in the case was whether it was murder or manslaughter.
In the Court of Appeal the focus of criticism was on the contention that there was a failure on the part of the trial judge to clarify the distinction between the two.
Dismissing the appeal this Friday, Mr Justice George Birmingham said it was true the trial judge dealt with the legal issues quite briefly, but the trial had not given rise to legal issues of any great complexity.
The trial judge's definition of murder, while brief, was entirely accurate, and he was being criticised for what he didn't say for his failure to define manslaughter.
"Having the jury focus on the ingredients of the offence of murder, the judge properly equipped the jury to decided whether to return the alternative verdict of manslaughter," Mr Justice Birmingham said.
He added that the court was not persuaded by the criticisms that had been advanced and took the view that the judge's charge was satisfactory.
China overtook the United States and France as Germany's most important trading partner in 2016, according to Germany's Federal Statistics Office on Feb 24.
China's trade volume with Germany exceeded 999.1 billion yuan in 2016, up 2.6 percent from the previous year, according to China's General Administration of Customs.
Xue Rongjiu, deputy director of the Beijing-based China Society for WTO Studies, says he expects the Sino-German bilateral trade relationship to be further strengthened in the future, should the US administration pursue trade protectionism that might shake the confidence of a majority of Chinese exporters.
"The Trump administration has been pressing both China and Germany to appreciate their currency exchange rates to maintain competitiveness in manufacturing," Xue says.
"Both China and Germany are expected to forge closer business and political ties to tackle the challenge from the US under the current global business setting."
Earlier, China had already become Germany's largest trading partner in Asia, and Germany has ranked as China's largest trading partner from the European Union for years.
Germany mainly exports mechanical and electrical products, transportation-related equipment and chemical products to China. It imports machinery, textiles, furniture and toys from China.
In terms of two-way investments, the accelerated growth has become an "important pillar" of economic and trade relations between the two countries, said Sun Jiwen, spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce, at a news conference in February.
At the end of 2016, China gave a green light to 9,394 German investment projects in the country, with a total value of $28.18 billion, according to the ministry.
Contact the writers through jingshuiyu@chinadaily.com.cn
(China Daily European Weekly 03/03/2017 page27)
LIMERICK City and County Council and Limerick Chamber of Commerce have unveiled a series of measures in a joint initiative aimed at making the Treaty City a business capital.
At a breakfast event in the Savoy Hotel this Friday morning, the business group and the local authority launched a new brochure highlighting Limericks potential for investment.
The 24 page glossy contains a variety of case study interviews with local bosses of international businesses located here including Kieran Harte, Uber, Alice ODwyer of Cook Ireland, and Dan Van Plew of Regeneron, which is employing 500 people in the former Dell factory at Raheen.
It also highlights the lifestyle choices on offer in Limerick, and the surrounding region.
The council and chamber are planning to commission an analysis of economic data to capture Limericks level of competitiveness in an international context.
Key marketing assets are to be devised to help IDA Ireland and other agencies bring inward investment to Limerick.
Next month, Limericks tourism web site, www.limerick.ie, will be relaunched to help promote the city internationally.
The chief executive of IDA Ireland Martin Shanahan, who was the keynote speaker at the event, heaped praise on the region's key players, saying the Mid-West is one of the best examples of these groups and individuals working together.
.@IDAIRELAND CEO Martin Shanahan at launch of #investlimerick guide: 'Limerick is one of the best examples of agencies working together' pic.twitter.com/0QLrcpy4J4 Nick Rabbitts (@Nick468official) March 3, 2017
The IDA is like the full forward as we tend to be at the point where we are trying to get something across the line but without the rest of the team it just wouldnt work. Thankfully I can say the Limerick and Mid-West is leading the way in that regard.
He also praised the region for its phenomenal performance in terms of IDA backed jobs with around 700 IDA-backed positions announced in Limerick between September and October last.
It was a phenomenal performance and the credit is shared for that increase. One of the things we do is continually check in with client companies and the feedback has been extremely positive with regard to here in Limerick, he added.
Also addressing the event were council chief executive Conn Murray and Mayor Kieran OHanlon.
The Mayor said: "Limerick is on an incredible journey. Today its a proud and confident place, competing internationally. A self-belief and can-do attitude has seen us become very successful in the last few years in attracting investment, both foreign and domestic.
"Limerick has changed for the better and today is a declaration that we have come a long way but have mapped out the journey ahead to ensure we maintain this momentum.
Chamber chief executive Dr James Ring also pointed out Limericks unemployment rate is, at seven per cent, lower than the national average.
We have a young population, with 50% under 35 years; an urban population of 100,000 in Limerick itself and our commercial rates are between 30% and 50% more competitive than rival investment locations. Add to that the fact that Limerick 2030, a special purpose vehicle established by Limerick City and County Council, is going to spend over 500m in building out 1.4m sq ft of prime real estate with a target of 5,000 jobs.
"So not only have we had a remarkable three years, we are going to make sure that the trajectory for the next three and many more beyond is maintained, he added.
Laura Ryan, head of communications and marketing for the council, hailed "a business community, led by Limerick Chamber, that is now very much mobilised in the collective for Limerick.
"Better still, all of these key stakeholders are continuously communicating, working together in a spirit of partnership and it is creating an optimism and confidence not experienced here for a long time, if ever."
At the event, a video was unveiled, aimed at bringing investment to Limerick.
Invest Limerick from Limerick.ie on Vimeo.
MINISTER for Finance Michael Noonan is confident that the free movement of people between Ireland and the UK, along with the common labour market can be retained following Brexit.
And if Britain secures a free trade agreement with the EU, all of Irelands potential post-Brexit problems for the 1.2 billion worth of goods traded between the two countries every week will virtually disappear, the Limerick minister said.
Speaking at a Fine Gael Brexit response meeting in the Castletroy Park Hotel last night, Mr Noonan emphasised that Ireland is fully committed to remaining in the European Union.
The British negotiating position is that they want to negotiate a free trade deal with Europe, so that goods and services can pass from the UK to Europe and from Europe to the UK without any tariffs, without any customs dues, said Mr Noonan.
Thats their negotiating position, and we shall back them on that. If theres free trade between us and the UK, its more or less what we have at present. That is Mrs Mays negotiating position and within Europe we can be supportive of that position, he added.
If Britain fails in its negotiations and free trade is stopped, tariffs and checkpoints could be imposed - but the minister hopes that it will not come to that.
Its going to take a long time to negotiate this. This is going to go on for five or six years, maybe longer. Theres an awful lot of pieces to this, said Mr Noonan.
One of the things Ive learned in politics is that if you have time, you can negotiate most things, and we have time, he added.
County Limerick TD Tom Neville said that the remaining popularity of the EU within Britain can be used as a negotiation tool.
Forty-eight percent of the people voted to remain - 50/50. I think we can use that leverage in our negotiations, that 50 percent of the population of the want to remain, including Scotland, Northern Ireland and London, said Mr Neville.
Thats something that we can use as a strength in our negotiations.
Europe itself needs to recognise and examine why this has happened. We need to get free trade with the UK. That is the bottom line going into these negotiations. It evaporates a lot of the problems that are being mentioned tonight, and I think because 50 percent of the UK voted to remain - and maybe a lot more, deep down, wanted to remain but used it as a protest vote - they wont want to see tariffs either, added Mr Neville.
Senator Maria Byrne expressed concern that Irish students studying in the UK may have to pay higher fees in the case of a hard Brexit.
But Senator Kieran ODonnell was optimistic, saying that Brexit presents great opportunity, particularly for Foynes Port.
Limerick is a city in a renaissance, he said.
THERE is a relief in Limerick after Bus Eireann and the National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU) announced Mondays strike action has been deferred.
It was announced this Friday afternoon that the nationwide strike action, called after the bus firms board signed off on what are believed to be 12m worth in cuts, had been suspended for the time being.
Both Siptu, and the NBRU, which is the drivers main union, had planned the all-out indefinite action from Monday, but both unions have now issued statements saying they will suspend the action after a request from the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
Talks to resolve the dispute will kick off on Monday, it is anticipated.
Independent councillor Frankie Daly, who chairs the transport committee, said: Common sense has prevailed but also warned there is a long way to go.
Both SIPTU and the NBRU had planned an all-out indefinite strike at the company from Monday but the two unions have this afternoon issued statements saying they are suspending the action after a request from the WRC.
Talks to resolve the dispute are now planned to start on Monday.
The state bus company runs seven regular bus services covering the city and its surrounds, as well as other irregular services covering rural Co Limerick.
On top of this, there are twice hourly services to Shannon Airport.
There now needs to be meaningful dialogue from both sides. But this is a boost for Limerick commuters, particularly with the bad weather we are now expecting. Were in for a rough spell over the weekend and into next week. I absolutely welcome this. Its a step in the right direction. But id urge Transport Minister Shane Ross to take a hands on approach to this. This is peoples lives and livelihoods, terms and conditions and fairness were talking about here, Cllr Daly told the Limerick Leader.
In a statement, Bus Eireann warned the financial situation at the bus firm remains critical, and the firm could close by May if actions not taken.
To facilitate meaningful discussions with unions, Bus Eireann management have today accepted a new invitation by the WRC to seek a solution, a spokesperson confirmed.
As a result of this, Bus Eireann will defer the implementation of changes it had planned to bring ijn from Monday.
Among other things, this would have seen the Limerick to Dublin X12 Expressway service being reduced in frequency.
Fossil fuels may be out of fashion, but sales of foreign-owned resources across Asia are expected to attract a broad mix of bidders
Some of Asia's biggest foreign-owned oil and gas assets, worth more than $40 billion, are to be sold this year, with potential bidders expected to include Chinese energy companies and sovereign funds.
Assets to be sold include US-based Chevron's $1 billion (0.94 billion euros; 0.81 billion) joint ownership stake with China's state-owned CNOOC in an offshore oil field.
One of the world's biggest oil and gas companies, Chevron plans to sell about $10 billion worth of assets, including natural-gas assets in Thailand, by the end of the year.
A worker checks one of CNOOC's deep-water drilling platforms in the South China Sea. China's top offshore oil and gas producer said it is scouting for potential acquisition opportunities among Chevron's $1 billion in assets that were put up for sale recently. Xinhua
CNOOC, China's top offshore oil and gas producer, has said it is scouting for potential acquisition opportunities, although a climate of low oil prices is making it difficult to agree on price.
This comes at a time when many countries in Asia are adding renewable resources, such as wind and solar, to their energy mix. While renewables are gaining traction, oil and coal-fired power stations will be around for some time.
Data from financial markets platform Dealogic show that from January to February this year, Chinese oil and gas companies were involved in $6.98 billion worth of mergers and acquisitions.
BP, Chevron, Royal Dutch Shell and other oil and gas majors have been slowly divesting tail-end assets within the region in recent years, but that trickle looks set to gain momentum as larger assets are to be put up for sale in 2017.
Chevron and Shell hold the largest portfolio of legacy assets in the region - that is, old assets that have lost value - and in the latter half of last year signaled their intentions to sell assets in Myanmar, Bangladesh, Thailand, New Zealand and Malaysia, among others.
In January, Shell said it would sell its stake in Thailand's Bongkot gas field to Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company for $900 million.
The move is the latest stage of the Anglo-Dutch company's push to reduce debt. The transaction will include Shell's 22.2 percent equity stake in the Bongkot field and adjoining acreage off the coast of Thailand, Shell said in a statement.
"This transaction shows the clear momentum behind Shell's global, value-driven $30 billion divestment program," the company said.
International resources consultancy Wood Mackenzie expects 2017 to bring a different mix of buyers to the fore than has been seen in recent years.
According to Prasanth Kakaraparthi, senior upstream research analyst at the consultancy, between 2010 and 2016, national oil companies were the main buyers in the Asia-Pacific, acquiring over 2 million barrels of oil equivalent of commercial reserves.
"This year we expect to see more buying activity from local independents and private equity-backed players," he says.
"Domestic utilities and refiners, Japanese players and Middle Eastern NOCs looking for growth opportunities are also possible acquirers."
He says Asia-Pacific capital expenditure is expected to fall again in 2017 to $64 billion, with capital budgets some 40 percent lower than in 2015.
This is due in part to fewer projects with final investment decisions in 2016. Only two projects, Ca Rong Do (Red Emperor) in Vietnam and the Western Surat Gas Project in Australia, are expected to take this step in 2017.
Lackluster participation in recent licensing rounds, and reduced budgets, point to a bleak year for exploration in the Asia-Pacific.
"We expect around 50 wells to be drilled this year - a 70 percent drop from 2014 levels," Wood Mackenzie said in a report.
Myanmar, which holds some of the last remaining frontier acreage in an otherwise mature region, accounts for the bulk of frontier exploration drilling and will be the biggest bright spot in Asia Pacific this year.
"We expect several wildcat wells to be drilled, as several blocks from the hugely successful 2013 bid round are matured through the exploration process," the report said.
"We also expect to see several companies farm down interest in exploration acreage where commitment wells are due, to reduce risk and manage budgets."
Kakaraparthi says there are three reasons why he expects the big players to sell this year.
"Many of the assets they hold in Southeast Asia are now mature, meaning they are likely to incur high (capital expenditure) going forward for little additional value," he says.
"Abandonment liability is also a big issue for older assets, which is another incentive to divest these from a portfolio.
"Typically at this stage, we would expect to see assets change hands from the majors/international oil company (IOC) type operators, to late-life players, smaller independents who still find these assets valuable, and potentially domestic players and local NOCs."
He says the second reason is two years of low oil prices, in 2015 and 2016.
"This has given a further incentive for the majors to kick-start divestment programs in order to bolster cash flow and sharpen the tail end of their portfolios.
"Many of these deals were already in progress during 2016 and we expect them to come to fruition this year.
"And finally, with limited exploration upside, increasing uncertainty around license extensions and domestic NOCs taking a more aggressive stance, the region has much less appeal than it did a couple of decades ago."
Kakaraparthi says several IOCs were seen retreating back to North America even before the oil price began to tumble.
He expects this trend to continue, explaining that the overall investment climate for the majors is challenging, in Southeast Asia in particular. License expirations looming on many large assets over the next decade serve as a disincentive to spend and an incentive to sell.
As for the buyers, he says: "We expect to see a mixed bag, ranging from NOCs, domestic independents, refiners and utility players to private equity-backed independents.
"From a Chinese perspective, there are mature assets operated offshore from China by international players that could be in the frame for sale.
"As buyers, we see the Chinese NOCs as increasingly focused on ongoing domestic energy reforms and the impact it has on their overall business."
Tim Woodall, managing director of specialist oil and gas corporate advisory firm Miro Advisors, says the Wood Mackenzie expectations match what he is seeing in the market.
"The timing appears right for increased merger and acquisition activity in 2017, whether it be a continuation of companies deleveraging by asset divestments, or companies like Shell, BG, Repsol and Talisman tidying up their Asia portfolios post-merger, or some IOCs looking for growth in their 2017-18 time frame via M&A," Woodall says.
Last year, the French utility Engie was reported to be seeking buyers for its oil and gas assets in Malaysia and Indonesia.
Engie, which joins a number of European utilities in selling oil and gas exploration and production assets after a sharp drop in energy prices, is looking to raise up to $500 million from the sale, Reuters said, citing banking sources.
The first bidding round for the assets is scheduled to be completed in mid-June.
The package consists of five assets, including a 33.3 percent working interest in the Muara Bakau offshore gas and very light oil project in Indonesia operated by Italy's Eni.
In Malaysia, Engie is selling 20 percent stakes in two exploration blocks, according to documents seen by Reuters.
Potential buyers include Asian oil firms such as Indonesia's Pertamina, Malaysia's Petronas, Thailand's PTT Exploration and Production, and Japan's Inpex and Mitsui, as well as companies backed by private equity funds, the sources said.
Deal-making in the oil and gas sector has slowed significantly since the sharp fall in oil prices nearly two years ago, while the number of assets on the market has climbed as companies seek to raise cash.
karlwilson@chinadailyapac.com
( China Daily European Weekly 03/03/2017 page29)
May 4, 2021, 3 AM
Sold for $25,000 at Spinks Jan. 24 sale in London, this 1861 4d Cape of Good Hope triangle is printed in vermilion instead of the correct milky blue, due to a mix-up with a single cliche from another denomination.
At the London Spink sale, a pair of Great Britains 4d rose of 1857, with superb, mostly complete A13 cancels of Tortola described as a possibly unique multiple of this forerunner went for $8,800.
This St. Christopher 2-penny Queen Victoria surcharged ONE PENNY is missing the hand-applied line through the original denomination. Spink sold the error for $14,000.
This rare imperforate horizontally error of Southern Rhodesias 3-penny Victoria Falls stamp of 1932, in a block of four, fetched $28,000 at the January Spink sale in London.
At its London offices Jan. 24, Spink sold the David Pitts collection of British Guiana. Among the standout items was this 2 Cottonreel on pale rose paper. One of four known in private hands, it realized $265,000.
Auction Roundup Matthew Healey, New York Correspondent
The former British Empire remains one of the most popular collecting areas around the world, including here in the United States.
Probably more than any other realm, Great Britains dominions, colonies, territories, and dependencies offer an amazingly rich and varied philatelic legacy.
From philatelys infancy, certain British Empire issues stretched the notion of what a postage stamp should look like.
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Others encapsulated moments in history and the grand sweep of human endeavor in the most intimate way, by enabling personal communication over thousands of miles.
As if to illustrate this point, Spink offered several sales at its headquarters in London in late January, beginning with David Pitts collection of British Guiana and several British Caribbean colonies on Jan. 24.
Pitts, an American collector who has had a notable career in health care management, is a fellow of the Royal Philatelic Society London. His British Empire collection, which eschews mint stamps to focus on postally used, is being offered by Spink in several sales through January 2018.
British Guiana is famous for Demerara sugar, rum, and several of the worlds rarest postage stamps.
Among the earliest of these commodities were the colonys first stamps, a set produced locally in 1850-51 in an improvised fashion, using loose type set in a rough circle made from a bent piece of brass printers rule.
Popularly known as the Cottonreels because they resemble the round labels on the end of a spool of thread more than conventional postage stamps, they were printed in black on various colored papers at a local print shop in the colonial capital, Georgetown.
The stamps denominations 2, 4, 8 or 12 are set in the middle, while the letters of the colonys name curve, higgledy-piggledy, around the circle.
In a bid to discourage fraud, postal workers initialed each stamp in pen. Most of the stamps appear to have been cut out to their round shape before being sold.
The lowest denomination is also the rarest, with perhaps 10 examples known of the 2 on pale rose (Scott 1). Only four remain in private hands.
The provenance of the Pitts example is well-documented, going back to its first sale in 1877. It was auctioned in 1924 for some $3,172 as part of the great Ferrary collection, and traded hands privately a few times over the ensuing decades.
It was again offered at auction at the Washington 2006 international stamp show, where it sold for $365,500.
At the Spink sale January 24, it fetched somewhat less, being hammered down for 180,000, or around $265,000 with the 20 percent buyers premium that Spink adds to all lots.
A scarce stamp from the small island of St. Christopher shows a ONE PENNY surcharge on the 2-penny Queen Victoria definitive of the time.
In error, one sheet of stamps missed getting the hand-applied rule through the original value (Scott 23). The used example offered by Spink, with a neat A12 barred-numeral cancel of the colony, sold for $14,000.
The sale included numerous colonial forerunners, or regular British stamps used in the colonial post offices and distinguishable by the particular numeral cancels assigned to those colonies.
These are listed in the Scott Classic Specialized Catalogue of Stamps and Covers 1840-1940 with A prefixes, before the individual colonies own stamps.
A fine horizontal pair of Great Britains 4-penny rose of 1857, with superb, mostly complete A13 cancels of Tortola (Virgin Islands Scott A4) was described as a possibly unique multiple of this forerunner. The pair, with some trivial faults, went for $8,800.
Pitts Bermuda exhibit is the only one of that country to have won an international large gold medal. Spink will offer it April 19.
Also on Jan. 24, Spink offered the Robert Van Buren Emmons collection of British Empire classics, with stamps and postal history from philatelys first three or four decades.
From the beginning, stamp-producing countries toyed with shapes other than rectangular. The first issues from Cape of Good Hope, a South African colony, are famous for their distinctive triangular shape.
After the initial printings from Britain were exhausted, a local firm reprinted the stamps, using typographed reproductions of the engraved originals.
These crude versions, issued in 1861, are referred to by collectors somewhat inaccurately as the woodblock issue.
Somehow, one cliche from each plate of the 1-penny and 4d stamps got switched, resulting in a color error for each denomination. The Emmons collection included both the 1d mistakenly printed in milky blue (Scott 7c) and the 4d mistakenly printed in vermilion (9f).
The errors, both remarkably lightly canceled and clearly showing the wording of denomination, sold for $15,450 and $25,000, respectively.
The sale continued with British Empire stamps from other consignors.
The first stamp of India indeed, of all Asia was a round -anna stamp, embossed first on paper and then on a waxy red wafer, resembling a seal.
Known as the Scinde Dawk, the stamp was issued in 1852 for the system of dawk (or dak) postal runners in the area now known as Sindh, Pakistan.
A very well-preserved red Scinde Dawk stamp (India Scott A3), attached to a large piece, was offered by Spink for the second time in four years.
In 2013, Linns reported that it had sold for $35,300; this time around, it fetched $39,800.
A rare imperforate horizontally error of Southern Rhodesias 3d Victoria Falls stamp of 1932 (Scott 32a), in a block of four, fetched $28,000.
May 1, 2021, 4 PM
At its March 2 meeting, the American Philatelic Society's board of directors approved a proposal by APS president Mick Zais to write a letter to the International Federation of Philately.
By Michael Baadke
Leaders of the American Philatelic Society intend to make an official statement about the workings of the International Federation of Philately (FIP).
At the March 2 meeting of the APS board of directors in Reno, Nev., APS president Mick Zais announced his plan to draft a letter addressed to FIP president Tay Peng Hian of Singapore, and to the FIP board of directors, in support of suggestions made recently by Chris King of the Association of British Philatelic Societies. King's letter recommended changes to certain FIP procedures.
King and Stephen Reinhard, the APS immediate past president, were candidates to represent Europe and the Americas, respectively, as FIP vice presidents in elections held last October. Neither was elected, and a Linns article by New York correspondent Matthew Healey published shortly after the election reported on criticism of the FIP election process and the ensuing backlash.
Other reports in recent years have expressed concerns about the results of judging at FIP events, and some hobby leaders have called for reform of the international body.
The FIP acts as an international forum for national stamp hobby federations, including the APS representing the United States, and determines standards for international judging. Among its stated aims is to promote philatelic exhibitions by granting Patronage and Auspices.
Zais plans to write a letter expressing APS support for the principles articulated in Kings statement to the FIP, which was distributed to the APS board members at the March meeting.
Theres been a number of people who asked me that I do something on behalf of the APS, to sign a document, Zais told the APS board.
Zais would use an existing document put together by our International committee as the basis for preparing his letter to the FIP, on behalf of the American Philatelic Society.
One document circulated to the board proposed that each of the three continental federations have a vice presidents seat on the FIP board, and that the FIP presidency rotate between the three continental federations. It also suggested changes to the selection of judges for international exhibitions, to the number of FIP board meetings with board members present, and other matters.
Zais expressed skepticism that his letter would change anything in the current FIP leadership.
The goal would be to have some influence on future administrations, he said.
I think were trying to push to reform FIP, Zais added, and, at the same time, provide alternatives for international exhibiting.
In his 2016 proposal to the FIP, King submitted a motion similar to one that was passed by the 74th FIP Congress when it convened in October. A draft of that motion provided to the APS board recommended a review to the FIP constitution and statutes, with changes to the election process, methods of developing and approving a three year rolling priority programme of work, communication efforts, exhibition sponsorship and more.
Peter P. McCann, who served two terms as an FIP vice president and is now on the APS board of directors, told the APS board that the motion passed despite the fact that Tay vehemently opposed it.
A new FIP president will be elected in 2018, McCann told the APS board. He said that he believes the next president will be elected from Europe.
Zais asked for the boards permission to draft a letter that will go to the FIP president and board members, which he will share with the APS board before sending it out on behalf of the society. Zais said he will submit the letter to the board prior to the next APS board meeting, which is scheduled to convene by telephone on April 20.
The board voted in favor of the motion to have Zais draft a letter, with APS treasurer Bruce Marsden abstaining.
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Conservation chief says it is now up to the continent to make plans for the protection of its precious natural resources
The head of an international conservation organization says China's move to ban its domestic ivory trade gives Africa the impetus to come up with a unique modernization model that balances development and conservation.
Previous development models in North America, Europe and Asia have compromised wildlife and wild regions, says Kaddu Sebunya, president of the Africa Wildlife Foundation (AWF). He says this is not what Africa needs and that China has instead shown its mettle by disrupting its domestic legal trade to meet its commitments - a move Africa should emulate to achieve sustainable growth.
Kaddu Sebunya says Africa needs the infrastructure so African people cannot talk conservation at the expense of development. Lucie Morangi / China Daily
"China has imposed the ban and simultaneously announced plans to retrain and help artists transition to alternative careers. The country has set the ball rolling and we hope to see other countries taking similar action.
With a decrease in demand for ivory, Africa will experience a surge in elephant numbers, while those who benefited from the illegal trade will be idle. Conservation, therefore, has to be pushed up the priority list," says the Ugandan, who took the helm of the 55-year-old organization in 2015.
Africa is set to be the biggest beneficiary of the ban. According to a report released last year by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the continent lost an estimated 111,000 elephants in the past decade. There are only 415,000 of the animals left, with the biggest population located in southern Africa.
Sebunya believes China's increased collaboration with Africa may have partly contributed to its decision. But, most importantly, the country took the decision to meet its commitments.
President Xi Jinping discussed plans to ban the ivory trade during his meeting in New York with then-US president Barack Obama in 2015 and he also talked about it during the second summit of the Forum of China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2014.
China is Africa's biggest trading partner and is behind the continent's recent infrastructure transformation.
Some modern transport projects have put African governments and environmental activists at loggerheads. However, Sebunya says that wildlife activists are not against development.
"Africa needs the infrastructure so we cannot talk conservation at the expense of development. The discourse should instead be on the relationship between the two. The good news is that we already have data from previous development models that have not worked. We must therefore develop an African model and China can help us mold it."
He disputes allegations that China has gained a foothold in Africa by turning a blind eye to conservation issues. He attributes delays in getting funding from other international financiers to a lack of skill on Africa's part in negotiating deals that put the continent's environmental needs on the table.
Noting this, he says China, through FOCAC, has increased the continent's skill development programs for wildlife and environmental experts. China's success at protecting its own endangered pandas offers lessons to the elephant conservation programs, and enable Africa to negotiate with a strong voice that will shape its development agenda.
Moreover, African conservation and wildlife management agencies have in the recent past been beneficiaries of China's technical and financial assistance. Kenya and Zimbabwe have each received vehicles and state-of-art equipment such as night-vision goggles to boost surveillance. China's security forces have also joined hands with global networks such as the Interpol to exchange intelligence that has successfully led to the arrest of ivory barons and a decline in the ivory trade.
But Africa cannot escape the fact that the ban does not explicitly solve its challenges, says the president. The continent's chief problem has always been human-wildlife conflict. The population boom and soaring demand for food has seen more and more human activities encroaching on wild land, setting off a vicious cycle pitting humans against animals. Climate change has also forced wild animals to venture into farmed land, while herders have invaded national parks in search of pasture. Compensation claims are on the upswing, putting more pressure on national budgets, while countries such as Botswana and Zimbabwe have been forced to hold huge stocks of ivory and other wildlife trophies.
Sebunya says China's ivory ban will effectively put the global focus squarely on Africa's ability to protect both its human capital and wildlife. Encouraging responsibility and creativity on the subject could result in the development of effective policies, but this can only be achieved with the right synergy created in all government departments.
"This is not only an environmental issue but also a political, social and economic issue," says Sebunya. "There have been several voices around illegal ivory trading but these are all going to tone down and turn to governments for direction going forward. I think we need Africa to own this space and be able to explain to fellow Africans the merit of our natural resources."
He says the only way communities living around protected lands will take responsibility for conservation efforts is when the government talks about it in boardrooms.
"Conservationists always seem to be coming in late, after monumental decisions such as infrastructure master plans have been approved. But finance ministers should be activists too, conscious of the consequences of prioritizing development over the ecosystem. Africa will not achieve its development agenda without its natural heritage," he says.
AWF has been recognized by the African Union as the official implementation partner of Africa Vision 2063.
Sebunya says the next 10 years will be crucial because decisions taken will determine the entire future of Africa.
"The continent has identified agriculture as key to its industrial take-off. However, Africa cannot develop without a healthy workforce and water to irrigate its lands and run industries. Conservation and development go hand-in-hand," says the president.
"The question Africa needs to answer is how it can have it all. There must be an African development model and data is available to guide us. China, which developed rapidly over a very short period of time, has lessons we can learn and this is why the ongoing partnership between China and Africa is monumental," says Sebunya.
He commends China for offering both its financial and technical skills in Africa's ambitious infrastructure development. With the right policies in place, Chinese construction companies will help build an eco-friendly African landscape.
"We are closely engaging with China in achieving an African renaissance dream. But we know that we should also be ready to compromise," says the president. "We will lose some while making gains elsewhere."
Good policies will also see the budgetary allocation for conservation increase. Expanding the education system to include communities previously engaged in poaching should also be prioritized.
"These people need to engage in alternative activities that will be economically viable to them. The ivory ban will force African governments to be more proactive and this calls for all partners to support their strategies."
With the ban in place, external conservation funding may dry up and this, according to Sebunya, will be to the detriment of the already stretched funding that also covers other endangered species. Continental bodies, such as the African Union, need to take a stronger stand to ensure member countries develop better wildlife management and sustainable strategies.
For countries grappling with huge elephant populations, sharing with countries such as Mozambique - whose elephant population has been wiped out - could be a prudent solution.
"When negotiating for the movement of people and capital, animals and technical support should also be considered," Sebunya says, adding that AWF helped in developing a tripartite agreement that saw Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo benefit from the protection of mountain gorillas.
"While charting Africa's unique development model, China cannot be ignored, and we will continuously engage with them, too, in this space," says the president, who is set to attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) from March 23-26 in China's Boao, Hainan province.
lucymorangi@chinadaily.com.cn
(China Daily European Weekly 03/03/2017 page32)
Some inspired finds to add to your shopping list
Some inspired finds to add to your shopping list From a graphic-novel memoir to a security robot that can talk to you /fashion/shop/some-inspired-finds-to-add-to-your-shopping-list-111646895182572.html 111646895182572 story
Wearable Art
Mango Universe scarf
Get this silk scarf with Mango Universe by Sri-Lanka born, Toronto-based artist Rajni Perera to welcome summer. Black and white options.
Norblacknorwhite.com; $105 (around Rs7,000)
Toy Turf
Amaryllo Atom
A security robot with AI, which recognizes human faces, talks to you, and sends video alerts when intruder movement is detected. Full HD 360-degree field of vision works even in pitch-dark rooms. Configure it with your Gmail and hear Atom chime Youve got mail" when something new lands in your inbox.
Amazon.com; $299.99
Spruce up
Cedes Milano manicure set
A quaint manicure set, framed in stainless steel and brown ostrich leather jacket.
Matchesfashion.com; 31,335
More summer vibe
1020
This homegrown fragrance stores summery offering has lemon, ginger and vetiver in the mix. Now available at Vayu, Bikaner House, Delhi, and Ogaan, Hyderabad.
Bombayperfumery.com; Rs4,100
Tracking Titles
Cant We Talk About Something More Pleasant
New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chasts witty memoir, focused on ageing parents, in graphic novel form.
Bloomsbury.com; Rs599
Compiled by Vangmayi Parakala
Art Scan: Antique acquisition A preview of the forthcoming Saffronart Classical Indian Art auction /how-to-lounge/art-culture/art-scan-antique-acquisition-111646895142862.html 111646895142862 story
In the past few years, classical Indian art has become somewhat of a favourite category in the secondary art market. In December 2016, a Basohli miniature painting sold for a tidy Rs93.25 lakh at the fourth Christies India auction. In December 2015, two Basohli works from the same collection, owned by late Colonel R.K. Tandan, sold for Rs96 lakh each at a Saffronart auction. Within India, regulations govern the sale of antiquitiesany work of art that is over 100 years old cannot be exported, and needs to be registered with the Archaeological Survey of India.
Classical art is very much undervalued, considering its significance in our heritage," says Hugo Weihe, chief executive officer of Saffronart. Regulation, he believes, isnt a bad thing, for the registration also provides a clear title of ownership.
At the 9 March evening sale of the Saffronart Classical Indian Art auction, 36 lots of miniature paintings from the Motichand Khajanchi collection will be up for sale; these will include works from the Bikaner, Mughal, Mewar and Kishengarh schools, ranging from the 17th to the early 19th centuries. Khajanchi was born into a family of jewellers that supplied to the royals of Bikaner, and built a formidable collection of Rajasthani miniatures during his lifetime. Pahari miniature paintings, and ancient and medieval sculptures, belonging to other private collections will also be part of the auction. To participate, visit Saffronart.com. The works will be on view at their Mumbai outpost till 8 March. Here are some highlights.
A set of 12 miniature paintings with inscriptions, from Jaipur circa 1820, valued between Rs80 lakh and Rs1 crore.
The Baramasa
The Baramasa, which translates to 12 months, is a classical text that is not religious, and uses the rhetoric of love and musical ragas to talk about each month of the Hindu calendar. It formed a popular theme in miniature painting, especially among artists of the Jaipur and Bundi schools of Rajasthan. The couplets of the poet Brahmadas singing the praise of Ram and Sita, after the defeat of Ravana and the coronation of Ram, accompany the works of this folio, and as such these works are remarkable in that they depict Ram in the sringara rasa (romantic mood). One of the 12 miniature paintings (pictured above) shows a dance performance in the month of magh (it usually falls in February).
Maharaja Bakhat Singh of Nagaur Proceeding For Battle
Bakhat Singh, who ruled Nagaur from 1724-51, and Jodhpur from 1751-52, was a patron of the arts who commissioned paintings to record important events in his lifethe larger the painting, the more important the occasion. The painting above depicts Singh leading an army to battle, including an impressive cavalry of camels, horses and elephants. It belongs to the Mewar school of Rajasthani miniatures, evident from the stylized clouds, and the subdued foreground. A related painting of Singh on horseback, attributed to Dalchand, which belonged to the Sven Gahlin Collection, was sold by Sothebys London in 2015 for 16,250 (around Rs13.36 lakh now).
A sandstone sculpture, 10th-11th century, from the Uttar Pradesh or Madhya Pradesh area, valued at Rs3-5 crore.
Mahishasuramardini
The myth of Durga slaying the demon Mahishasura has been a creative inspiration for Indian artiststhe late Tyeb Mehtas modern work, Mahishasura, sold for $2.2 million (around Rs15 crore now) at a 2012 Christies auction, a record-breaking feat for Indian modern art at the time. This particular sandstone sculpture, highly detailed, is in remarkable condition. You can see the nails of the goddess, her grip on an arrow in her quiver. She holds the demons neck with one hand, and, with another, draws her sword. The dramatic nature of the sculpture is heightened by the vitality of the other smaller figures surrounding her, including her lion, which is busy taking a bite of the hindquarters of the slain demon.
Indian films new fixation with unusual foreign locations The not-so-obvious reasons why our movies travel abroad /how-to-lounge/movies-tv/indian-films-new-fixation-with-unusual-foreign-locations-111646895322275.html 111646895322275 story
You can pretend you are in India," says Feisal Malik, line producer with Visual Africa, a film production company in Kenya. A lot of Indian weddings take place in Kenya, so you have many Indian background dancers and props available. There are Indian-origin actors as well, ones who know what they are doing in front of the camera." Kenya has a white-sand coastline, lush green plantations, and the famous Savannah grasslands. Not too far away, South Africas KwaZulu-Natal region offers cityscapes, jungles, mountains and the sea in close vicinity, as well as parts of Durban that look like India. There are cramped buildings, temples and mosques here," G. Simphiwe Ngcobo, production and development manager, KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission, South Africa, told me at the India International Film Tourism Conclave in Mumbai last week.
The idea of going to Africa to recreate India may seem strangely self-defeating, but for film industry insiders, it is business as usual. The decision to shoot in a foreign country depends on its natural and cultural offerings as much as on the financial incentives, the efficiency of the local crew and the permits to shoot. Marijke de Souza, an executive producer at Dharma Productions, is looking for shooting locations that can pass as India for Ayan Mukerjis planned fantasy adventure with Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, tentatively titled Dragon". If you are filming at a certain time of the year, you cant go to certain parts of India because of the extreme weather. Sometimes the actors dates dont match. And if you need to blow up cars, we dont have the highways to do it. Some other countries have infrastructure that allows that," she says.
A still from the forthcoming Jagga Jasoos.
This is where smaller countries see a business opportunity. The countries that took part in the conclave werent the UK, France or Switzerland but Kenya, Portugal, Finland, Malta, Fiji, Sri Lanka, Jordan, Romania, Cyprus and Slovenia, among others. In the two-day B2B event, which resembled a trade fair for film locations, representatives from tourism boards, armed with catalogues and audiovisual presentations in their respective stalls, met production houses and film-makers. There were representatives from the Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayali, Kannada and Bengali film industries.
We have the best of landscapes and pristine waters, but ultimately, it all comes down to how much it costs to shoot in one place or the other, and what kind of local crew you find there," says Luis Araujo, president of Turismo de Portugal, a country where Imtiaz Ali recently finished filming The Ring with Shah Rukh Khan.
These countries have a model that benefits both parties: the more you involve their local economy, the less you pay. You get a 20% tax rebate if you only use the location," Ngcobo says. If you hire local crew and equipment, it goes up to 35%. And it goes up to 50% if you employ black locals. If its a co-production in KwaZulu-Natal, you get $150,000 (around 1 crore) as funding." He adds, It is actually possible to make your entire movie with soft money that you sometimes dont have to pay back."
Film location tourism is serious business in these countries and competition is stiff. But there is space for everyone. Finland, which launched its campaign in January, is a late entrant compared to its Nordic neighbours. But its not worried because Iceland is booked for the next two years", according to Teija Raninen, film commissioner, West Finland Film Commission (which offers a costume manufacturer on the sets). Film production demands a huge network and many supporting industries," Raninen says. It took a while to convince our government that it will create new jobs and companies." In 2014, Shamitabh became the first Indian movie to be shot in Finlandin Lapland, which boasts of snowy wildernesses and the Northern Lights.
Given the way Indian popular cinema is driven by its aspirational qualities, foreign locations add value, literally. Shyam Kurup, vice-president of the Aries group of companies, a UAE-based multinational that invests in movies, describes it as a budgeting tactic. If I shoot a song in Fiji, my budget may go up by 10% but the returns are more because our distribution value also goes up."
Some directors, like Imtiaz Ali and Vikas Bahl, follow their characters on their travels, shooting in whichever country the plot takes them to. Given her arc, Ranis final destination in Queen had to be Amsterdam, a city bustling with cycles, music and people," says Bahl. This doesnt mean theres always a good reason for a foreign shoot, though. Rohit Shetty could presumably have shot Dilwale in any place that resembled Bulgaria and Iceland. In my film Ra. One the lead characters live in London," says director Anubhav Sinha, who attended the conclave. It could have been (set in) any other country."
Perhaps the most amusing rationale comes from Vinod Unnithan, line producer of Raees, Delhi Belly and Dhobi Ghat. One of the main reasons for shooting abroad, he says, is to keep the films stars in a controlled environment. If we are shooting in India, especially in Mumbai, stars arrive late and are always looking to leave the set early for home or to meet friends. But outside India, they dont have many people to socialize with. They have nowhere to go and are generally stuck between the hotel and the sets."
Fit for a pharaoh How Azza Fahmy made an Egyptian brand internationally appealing /news/talking-point/fit-for-a-pharaoh-111646895403339.html 111646895403339 story
I am an unabashed fan of Azza Fahmy, the Egyptian jewellery designer, so when I hear she is visiting Dubai, I am determined to meet her. I don my only necklace from her brandit is a pharaonic collar in gold and silverfor the interview. Fahmy has been making jewellery since the 1970s, and must have created hundreds of pieces, but she walks in wearing the exact same necklace. What are the chances! We dissolve into laughter, reaching out and hugging, commenting on the hand of fate.
Indeed, she believes it was the hand of fate that pulled her into the jewellery business. She chanced upon a book at a fairin German, which she didnt understand, but it had beautiful photos of medieval European jewelleryand she instinctively knew this book would change her life. It cost 19 Egyptian pounds (around Rs80 now)her salary was only 17 poundsbut she bought it, and started an unlikely journey that has taken her to the narrow streets of Cairos Khan el-Khalili (think Chandni Chowk) to learn jewellery making from a traditional goldsmith, to growing into a brand now sold in Egypt, the UK, US and several Middle-Eastern countries. Today she has 200 employees and 26 designers.
Egypt isnt all that different from Indiaplenty of ancient history, a strong jewellery tradition, a more is more" aesthetic, a mindset that thinks in terms of gold weight and making charges (instead of design and brand)so I am curious how Fahmy has managed to make an Egyptian brand internationally appealing. Her designs are replete with Egyptian symbolsscarabs and falcons from the pharaohs, Sufi sayings and Arabic calligraphy, talismans like the evil eye or the Hand of Fatimaso it is intriguing how it speaks to an international customer. I cant think of Indian parallels that have pulled it off on the world stage. What does it take, I ask?
She mulls over it a long moment, and then says something that stops me in my tracks. You have a great, great tradition in India," she says. But you dont have the designer that takes the soul of this great civilization and makes something new out of it."
It is a hard one, but I think she is right. Of course, there are no algorithms for finding souls of ancient civilizations, rendering them on todays jewellery, and getting them to magically vibe with the global shopper. I suspect that is her special gift, or the hand of fate that guides her. But there are two thingson a more down-to-earth levelthat seem to be part of her process, and might provide a clue: One, she researches the past with an unbelievable fervour; and two, she embraces modernity in the broadest possible way.
She has several themed collections, but her research process is best illustrated by her pharaonic collection. She had wanted to do it for years, but was afraid to attempt it because the pharaohs craftsmen had attained absolute perfection. The jewellery, the sarcophagi, the statues, the pyramids, the templesthey were masters in everything. I didnt want to do something that makes them angry with me," she says. Does she mean the people from the past, the pharaohs people? Yes, thats right. It was as if she was imprisoned by their expectations.
So she studied pharaonic history to discover its principles. Who are these gods? What is the meaning of these letters? What is the essence behind this civilization? She visited the archaeological digs at Saqqara. She sent initial jewellery sketches to pharaonic experts. It took her eight years to study it well.
And then, there was a Eureka momenther daughter Amina, also a jewellery designer, suggested they make contemporary" pharaonic jewellery. That was it. The path was suddenly clearto simplify and freely mix the motifs and symbols. For example, our necklace has falcon wings happily juxtaposed with motifs of the rising sun."
The craftsmanship, the way the piece sits on your bodyevery aspect is flawless, and this is where her embrace of modernity comes in. She is collaborating with Europe, bringing in the best minds in technology, in quality control, in every key aspect. Her team is fully trained. She values training so much, she has set up a school in CairoThe Design Studio by Azza Fahmyin collaboration with Alchimia, the contemporary jewellery design school in Italy. She has collaborated with Western designers like Matthew Williamson, and stretched her design vocabulary.
I look at the beautiful rings she is wearing, her own designs, of course. Two are outsized renditions of the Hand of Fatimashe was the daughter of the Prophet, and her hand is said to have protective powers. The third ring has a proverb inscribed in intricate calligraphy which reads, When god closes one door, he opens a thousand others." The fourth ring is the odd one outa simple band with a stonerecommended for her by an Indian jyotishi (astrologer). Clearly, her fate is in her own hands.
Radha Chadha is one of Asias leading marketing and consumer insight experts. She is the author of the best-selling bookThe Cult Of The Luxury Brand: Inside Asias Love Affair With Luxury.
A city in pages In a photo project, writer Jerry Pinto and photographer Chirodeep Chaudhuri explore the personal histories of the books in a Mumbai public library /news/talking-point/a-city-in-pages-111646895338964.html 111646895338964 story
Out of an immensely poetic body of work, the great Hungarian photographer Andre Kerteszs book On Reading is particularly charming. It has a photograph from 1926 in which Kertesz sets his lens on a patch of roofs in the romantic Latin quarter of Paris. He nudges readers to finally notice a man reading a newspaper after letting their eyes wander across the frameone that expresses an obvious love for geometry inspired by the De Stijl movement of that time. The book, first published in 1971, wasnt a significant departure from Kerteszs way of seeing, but, rather, a delicate study of one of the simplest joys of lifeof reading. From libraries to streets and into peoples bedrooms, Kertesz illustrated the love of books through readers and the spaces they read in.
Closer home in Mumbai, photographer Chirodeep Chaudhuri has been fascinated, for over a decade, by the public statues seen holding books or reading. And the year 2000 saw the beginnings of a close association with writer and journalist Jerry Pinto, who hired Chaudhuri as photo editor at Traveljini.com. Over the years, as colleagues and friends, they travelled and spoke about books and reading. The loss of the habit of readingwe used to talk about it a lot. A common lament," says Chaudhuri.
A couple of years ago, the board of trustees of the Peoples Free Reading Room and Library in Mumbai thought Pinto would make a fine addition to their number as one of the existing members wanted to resign. I think every library is a writers dream and a writers nightmare. You see thousands of books you have not read and you see thousands of authors whose names you have never heard of and whose books you do not want to read. This is your fateto be part of this shouting," says Pinto.
2.A photo from the series In The City, A Library. Photo: Chirodeep Chaudhuri
Chaudhuri first visited the library, an old building opposite the famous bakery Kyani & Co. in Dhobi Talao, in 1994, while he was at The Sunday Observer. He remembers noticing a huge shelf with bound volumes of Punch magazine, which had recently shut shop. When Jerry told me about being on the board of trustees, my first thought was to go and shoot the library. Not the interiors though, something else," he says. When he began revisiting the library after a gap of two decades, he noticed the shelf with the Punch magazines. They were still there, only covered in dust.
As he browsed through 35,000-odd books, some old and moth-eaten, Chaudhuri was seeking a kind of visual drama that would initiate a series of photographs. As repositories of memories, libraries also reveal their fragilities," Chaudhuri says. This is how the photo project In The City, A Library, a collaboration with Pinto, began: It will be exhibited from 9 March at Project 88, Mumbai, as part of the FOCUS Photography Festival 2017. Both Pinto and Chaudhuri are concerned with time and how books respond to it. Its a story about the library, told through the books in the collection," says Chaudhuri. Considered one of the older public libraries in India, the Peoples Free Reading Room and Library also reportedly hosted Mahatma Gandhis first appearance in the city.
The library as a bearer of public and personal histories is crucial to the collaboration. The library has much that is rare and valuable, not because the books are old but because they were often privately printed and some copies made available only to libraries and friends by the writers. These include memoirs, travel books, books about institutions such as charitable clinics and schools. This is what fascinates me about the world of books; that there is always another layer, a subterranean layer often that throws up other ideas and other ways of looking at the city," says Pinto.
Chaudhuri and Pinto spent a year and a half digging deep into the collection and found things people had left behind in the books. From a mans scribblings about homoeopathy in every book that he borrowed to finding tram tickets (something Chaudhuri had never seen before), these personal imprints started giving structure to the project. There was also a whole cupboard stashed with books on debates in the House of Commons and the House of Lords. They had a sense of bringing to the fore what was lost and what could be used to construct another history of the city. I found (businessman) Premchand Roychands books (the Rajabai Tower was named after his mother) bearing his personalized stamps. People might say that personal histories are of little relevance to a larger reading of the city, but whos to say what isnt or what is?" asks Chaudhuri.
Pinto, on the other hand, was looking at the collection from different levels. Some of these were purely administrative, some of these were connoisseurial; but when Chirodeep began to dream up this projectand he is the dreamcatcher on the teamI began to look at the books as artefacts and that brought about another way of looking." And, indeed, the collaboration underlines just that. The photographs arent just visual markers, they are a fine reading of the books and the people who owned them, donated them and turned the pages.
In Chaudhuris photographs, found objects, jottings and drawings from within the books become props for his composition. His images lend the books a second life. In his still-life images, Chaudhuri unfurls the poetry of pages turned yellow, handwritten postcards, mechanical drawings and bookworm infestations. As the two collaborators think of ways to take the project further, it is clear that the books sleeping on those old, wooden shelves have found their way back into the world.
Paroma Mukherjee is an independent photographer and photo editor based in New Delhi.
Whose baby is it anyway? Marriage is no longer the prism that defines relationships. Then why should single people be denied the right to have children? /news/talking-point/whose-baby-is-it-anyway-111646895295794.html 111646895295794 story
There was a time when convention dictated every aspect of life. Its rule was absolute. The past decade, however, has dealt some huge blows to its standing, with political movements like feminism and gay rights becoming more and more mainstream. Lifestyles have evolved, as have life choices. Traditional notions of womanhood, marriage, relationships are changing. Or, are they?
In August, Union external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj paid a surprise visit during a routine press briefing on cabinet decisions. She was there to talk about the draft Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016. Keeping in mind the seriousness of the issue (surrogacy), the Prime Minister had instituted a group of ministers of which I was the chairperson," she began. It was never going to be an easy announcement, the banning of commercial surrogacy, a business estimated at more than $400 million (around Rs2,670 crore) a year, but Swaraj added fuel to the fire with her announcement that only legally wedded couples, a man and a woman who had been together for more than five years, she specified, would be able to avail of altruistic surrogacy". The minister then went on to specify that single parents, unmarried, live-in relationships, homosexuals" would not be allowed" to avail of altruistic surrogacy.
It was a statement bound to raise hackles, and it did. There were concerns about the government trying to police bodies while others spoke of how the Bill violated constitutional provisions. In an editorial for The Indian Express last year, lawyer Anil Malhotra argued that constitutionally, the state cannot interfere in the prerogative of a person(s) to have children, naturally or through surrogacy".
The Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by health minister J.P. Nadda in November, and referred to a standing committee on 12 January. The report is expected to be submitted within three months, so there is a chance it could be discussed in the Parliament session starting 9 March.
The Bill, in its initial form, seems to betray a lack of knowledge of the situation on the ground. Relationships in India are no longer defined through the narrow prism of marriage; in fact, the very categories that Swaraj stressed were not allowed" to avail of surrogacy now form a substantial chunk of society, be it single parents or gay couples. In 2012, in fact, the government told the Supreme Court there were 2.5 million gay people in India. The figures had been compiled by Indias National Aids Control Organization.
Prathap N. is a freelance writer who has been in a committed relationship with another man for nine years. Earlier this year, they solemnized their relationship by exchanging vows in Europe. When we lived together in Bengaluru, our neighbours used to think we were roommates. It would have been nice to tell everyone that we are a couple but that wasnt possible. The conservative morals exemplified in the acceptance of heterosexual couples are never going to change. The governments definition of marriage only reinforces this," he says.
Prathap isnt hopeful, though there have been signs that acceptance of all kinds of relationships is evolving. In April 2015, the Supreme Court ruled that any couple who had been living together for a long time would be presumed to be legally married, unless proved otherwise. The conversation about LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) rights is as vibrant as the multiple pride parades that take place across the country now and there has been a landmark Supreme Court judgement vis-a-vis the rights of the transgender community. According to Prof. Tulsi Patel, a sociologist from Delhi University, the notion that the only union fit for parenting is the traditional marital one is a very upper-caste notion of relationships and motherhood. These, in turn, are because of heteronormative constructs of paternity and maternity."
Single, with a child
India allows single people, both men and women, to adopt, though the former are not allowed to adopt girls. Seventeen years ago, actor and former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen made headlines when she adopted a baby girl. Sen was opting to be a single mother.
Two years earlier, Nanki Hans, a senior journalist with The Tribune newspaper, Chandigarh, disregarded convention when she had a biological child, as a single woman. I am an only child and I needed a blood relation. And I wanted my own child." Hans opted for in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment in London where her mother was working. She argues that if an individual is educated, pays taxes, and contributes to the growth of the nation, then why should she be denied the right to an heir? Procreation is a natural right. When you deny it to an individual , then it is an infringement."
Hans may have undergone treatment in the UK but she faced hurdles back home, especially as far as the paperwork was concerned. At one point, her sons school wanted the fathers name for the CBSE form for class X examinations, and it continued to be an issue even after she submitted her IVF documents. Today, it is no longer mandatory to provide the fathers name in the form.
By the time Kolkata-based artist Eleena Banik decided to have a biological child as a single woman, assisted reproductive technology (ART) had become a well-established field in India. Women should be able to choose how they want to become a mother," says Banik, who gave birth to a girl in 2012, despite challenges in getting permissions.
Even single men have opted for ART to become fathers. The most well-known case, perhaps, is that of Tusshar Kapoor, the 40-year-old actor who became a father in June last year.
Banik argues that its ridiculous to expect single parents to put their dreams of a family on hold just because they havent found the right partner. I wanted to have a child of my own but wasnt keen to get married," she says. A painter, Banik has been married once but says she did not have a baby then because she was just not convinced" about her partner.
ART clinics are governed by Indian Council of Medical Research guidelines which do not specify who is fit to be a parent and who is not. Even so, Banik would face refusal each time her single status became known.
Changing realities
If mindsets can be a problem, an even more intractable one can be government-mandated paperwork, as Hans learnt. Even that, however, is changing.
Recently, the external affairs ministry updated its passport rules, with the fathers name no longer mandatory.
Government census data too reflects changing ground realities. There has been a 39% increase in the number of single women in India between 2001 and 2011. There are 71.4 million single women, though this count includes not just those unmarried but also those divorced, widowed or deserted by their husbands. The census also reveals that the mean age for women getting married has increased from 18.3 years to 19.3, while for men it is now 23.3, up a few points from 22.6 in 2001.
In purely personal terms, I can tell you that times have changed. I did not face problems, when it came to people around me, after I decided to walk out of my marriage in 2001. However, when an aunt did the same years ago, a large part of society was not supportive," says Rachna Kalra, who used to work with a publishing house in Delhi. Kalra, who separated from her husband in 2001, says there are many people in her peer group who are single. Some chose to walk out of bad marriages, some never got marriedits not a pattern she sees in her mothers group of friends.
For those who do choose to defy convention, there are several factors that come in handy, not least of which are a supportive family set-up, education and, of course, economic independence.
Hans, for instance, is categorical that the support from her parents made her exceptionally lucky. It is a mix of factors: Economic independence is very important. Also, the massive global communication village we live in, it is impossible to not be influenced or informed by international changes," says Prof. Patel.
A big agent of change vis-a-vis mindsets can be popular culture. In 2015, The Atlantic did a piece analysing the impact of Modern Family, a US sitcom which features, among others, a gay couple, Cameron and Mitchell, in playing a role in garnering support for same-sex marriages. The article stated, A 2012 Hollywood Reporter poll found that 27 per cent of likely voters said that depictions of gay characters on TV made them pro-gay marriage, and there are news accounts of people crediting their newfound sympathy towards gay people to Modern Family."
In India popular culture doesnt shy away from portraying sexually liberated, financially independent young men and women, but its potential to create long-term change, especially when it comes to relationships, is yet to be harnessed.
India has the worlds largest young population (356 million in the 10-24 age group, according to a 2014 UN report), who are expected to be drivers of the worlds economy in the years to come, but the government still wants to try and tell them whether, and whom, to marry and how to have a child. In an ideal world, the state would not police bodies or have a say in what goes on in bedrooms. In an ideal world, people would have the right to live the way they want to, love whom they desire and have children irrespective of their relationship status. As far as personal liberties go, its not much to ask for.
Aurangzeb and battles of the present Aurangzeb is dragged into the battles of the present, waged in school textbooks, and in the naming of roads /news/talking-point/aurangzeb-and-battles-of-the-present-111646895620494.html 111646895620494 story
Some days ago, Emperor Aurangzebrecently toppled from the towering heights of a Delhi signpostfound his way to the more untroubled comforts of my bookshelf. The woman behind this restoration is Audrey Truschke who, when not exploring the place of Sanskrit at the Mughal court, is evidently part of a cabal of soul vultures", according to one furious local website. They have reason to dislike her. After all, AurangzebMuslim tyrant, persecutor of Hindus, stitcher of skull caps, etc., etc.deserves no honour. And writing a book called Aurangzeb: The Man And The Myth concedes too much dignity to a despot who deserves only contempt. Or so we are told.
In itself, this very contested setting makes the prospect of reading Truschke attractive, but if one is looking for overblown sympathy that projects Aurangzeb as a tragic hero (currently a place reserved for his slaughtered brother, Dara Shukoh), this isnt the book. On the contrary, what we receive is a sequence of sober, unvarnished sentences that demolish political propaganda and show Aurangzeb as a man who certainly made many mistakes, but not the ones for which he is blindly condemned. To begin with, he was not the destroyer of thousands" of templesin his 49 years on the Peacock Throne, the number of shrines demolished was perhaps half that figure.
Aurangzeb was an emperor," Truschke writes, and as such he needed no special justification for seeking to enlarge his empire." I confess to liking this otherwise dry statement, for in one stroke it puts the man in the correct perspectivehe was a despot, but he lived in an age of despots, answering to the demands of his own situation and not to the retrospective needs of ours. Dara Shukoh, his more amiable, philosophically inclined brother, would have been relatively heterodox perhaps, but even he admitted that had he won the war of succession, Aurangzeb would have been neatly chopped up and put on display in Delhi. Either the throne or the grave" was the reality of the Mughals, and the most excellent of them lived by this dictum.
Truschke agrees that Aurangzeb was a a clever strategist but a bad rulerhe stretched the empire to unsustainable limits and on his deathbed was preoccupied with the inevitable unravelling of his house. His unnecessary imposition of the jizya tax on Hindus (from which Rajput and Maratha officials as well as Brahmin dignitaries were exempt) only lined pockets in the decaying bureaucracy. For years he patronized temples as far away as Guwahati and later rescinded such orders when his princely mood turned. He allied with mullahs where it served his purposes, and discarded them when it didnt. Leading clerics, for instance, opposed his usurpation of the throne. Aurangzeb simply had them replaced.
Understandably, it was insecurity that guided his strange actions. When he took the title Alamgir, the Shah of Iran sniggered that Seizer of the World" was somewhat exaggerated when the only thing Aurangzeb had seized was his own father. As Truschke states, Being branded an illegitimate Muslim monarch likely prompted Aurangzeb to become more devout.... Here, Aurangzebs religiosity did not shape state policy so much as his kingly experiences inspired changes in his religious life." He appropriated religion to invent legitimacya technique not unfamiliar to rulers from other faithsbut if conflict arose between Islamic ideals and imperial business, it was the latter that prevailed. When the mullahs objected to his war against Muslim sultans in the Deccan, Aurangzeb ignored them.
Truschke also insists that we must not hold Aurangzeb up to Akbar since in such comparisons we also commit the classic error of assuming that everything in Indian history, especially the Indo-Muslim past, was about religion", where Akbar becomes the good" Muslim whom Hindus respected, and Aurangzeb the bad" one everyone resented. Aurangzeb was generally austerehe restricted Holi celebrations, but also festivities around Muharram and Eid. The love of his life was a Christian, and for a man who didnt permit music in his presence, his companion towards the end was a musician wife. His daughter was a poet and his uncle, Shaista Khan (a villain for the Marathas), composed in Sanskrit. If we must compare him with Akbar, it is instructive that Hindus comprised 22.5% of all the nobility under the former, while during Aurangzebs time the number reached an unprecedented 31.6%.
It is a deathless travesty that political interests today draw nourishment for current interests from decontextualizing history, without actually going through the effort of learning enough of it. Aurangzeb occupied a complex world with competing interests and changing personalitiesthe scheming prince who took the throne in 1658 was not the emperor who died in 1707, fearing the advent of ruin. He probably realized he had failed, retiring to an unmarked grave, hoping possibly to be forgotten. But those who came after him are unwilling to let him gofrom 300 years ago, Aurangzeb is dragged into the battles of the present, waged in school textbooks, and in the naming of roads. That, perhaps, is the fate of all emperors but thanks to a soul vulture" called Audrey, we can at least now view the man in his own context and in the terms of his time.
Manu S. Pillai is the author of The Ivory Throne: Chronicles Of The House Of Travancore. Medium Rare is a weekly column on society, politics and history.
From Bangladesh, with love Mostofa Sarwar Farooki on the ban on his new film with Irrfan Khan and why we'll have to wait for a Bangladeshi new wave /relationships/it-s-complicated/from-bangladesh-with-love-111646895554180.html 111646895554180 story
An elderly village patriarch, who has opposed the idea of images all his life because it is haram (prohibited), finds happiness in his final moments as he watches a live telecast from Mecca. A salesman gets his hands on a private video clip of an actress and starts manipulating her for his own pleasure. Mostofa Sarwar Farookis films Television (2012) and Ant Story (2013) venture into forbidden territory, and cinema is omnipresent. This is revealing of the film-makers life. While growing up in Dhaka in the 1980s, he wasnt allowed to watch TV. His father used to call it shaitaaner baksho (devils box).
By the turn of the millennium Farooki was leading a bunch of film-makers in Bangladesh trying to tell relatable stories through telefilms. In his new film, Doob (No Bed Of Roses in English), the protagonist is a film-maker called Javed Hasan, played by Irrfan, who has also co-produced the film.The character is allegedly based on the late author and film-maker Humayun Ahmed, a cultural icon in Bangladesh, known for his writings on urban middle-class life and his use of magical realism. Ahmed had a controversial personal life; he married an actress who was a close friend of his daughter. Although Farooki denies that its a biopic, he says, Whether or not it is inspired by real characters, I prefer people find that out for themselves."
Doob was banned by Bangladeshs Ministry of Information two weeks ago. We spoke to Farooki about the film, Irrfan, and the centrality of stories in south Asian life. Edited excerpts from the interview.
Mostofa Sarwar Farooki
Why was Doob banned?
We dont know the exact reason. We had submitted the script of Doob to the reading panel of the Joint Venture Production Committee of Bangladesh and India, got a go-ahead before we began shooting. Once we finished it, we showed it to the preview committee, all as per the rules. They watched it, gave us a no-objection certificate and then, suddenly, suspended it for an indefinite period, citing a special letter from the Bangladesh information ministry.
We have got in touch with the ministry to know the reason. We are optimistic that the ban will be lifted. We want it to release as originally planned in Bangladesh, India, the US and Canadawhere there are a lot of Bengalison the same day.
What is the film about?
It is a family drama with the father-daughter relationship at the centre. There are two other characters and all their fates are entwined. The bigger idea, however, is of death as a great equalizer. Death is popularly seen as something that takes away a lot from us. I wanted to say that death can give back a lot of things too.
One of the main themes of your films is forbidden love.
I deal with human desire. My characters are caught in a constant struggle between the real and the desired world. I had this conversation with Lee Chang-dong, the Korean film-maker, about identityI told him that the great storytellers in this part of the world are sitting in tea stalls in Bandra, Sealdah and Dhaka. People are saying things like, My uncle in the city has 20 cars or 10 bodyguards." Both the teller and listener get short-lived happiness from this made up story.
People, especially in south Asian countries, are probably lying as a counter to real life deprivation. For us, stories are food for the soul. Forbidden love comes from this longing for a desired world.
Why did you want to cast Irrfan?
While writing the script I used to tell my wife (actor Nusrat Imroze Tisha, who appears in Doob and other films of his), I see Irrfans eyes here." He is a busy artiste and I didnt know how to get in touch with him. I wrote to a friend, the filmmaker Anup Singh who had worked with him in Qissa. I had no idea he was shooting his second film in Rajasthan with Irrfan. He put us in touch. I mailed Irrfan the script with some links of my films. He did some research. Later I came to know that he watched a YouTube version of Ant Story without any subtitles. But he said he enjoyed it and liked my cinematic language.
Have you had problems with censorship before?
My film Made In Bangladesh (2007), a political satire, was blocked for a year and a half. Censors also had a problem with Third Person Singular Number (2009), where I showed a live-in relationship and a single woman living alone in a city. My next is on the Holey Artisan Bakery blasts that happened in Dhaka last year. It is a one-take feature film as I want the audience to feel the intensity and suffocation of the victims in an unbroken cinematic moment.
Bangladesh has changed a lot. The Bangladesh Film Censor Board and the information ministry need to upgrade themselves aesthetically and philosophically to the changing country.
Are there many independent films being made in Bangladesh?
Things are easier than before. Now you can take a mobile phone, shoot and release online. Films made by a new generation of directors in the last few years have travelled to festivals and have done well with local audiences. But I cant say we have many interesting feature films. I expect a lot more young talent to come up and create a real Bangladeshi new wave.
How did you get interested in movies?
I started going to the Indian and German cultural centres to attend film society screenings after I finished school. I watched classics by Andrei Tarkovsky, Robert Bresson, Bernardo Bertolucci, Francois Truffaut and, of course, Satyajit Ray. They opened my eyes but I still didnt know that I wanted to make films. I made my first telefilm, Waiting Room, to impress a girl. Once I made it, I forgot her and fell in love with the film.
A few years ago, at a seminar organised by the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), you had talked about the idea of a common market for indie films in South Asia.
I suggested that to our government too in a written proposal when they were working on the film policies. I want films to be imported and exported through a certain tax and screening policy which will allow foreign films to be seen. A common South Asian market will be great for the business of indie films in the region and a way of cultural understanding.
Frozen organs could be brought back to life safely one day with the aid of nanotechnology, a new study finds. The development could help make donated organs available for virtually everyone who needs them in the future, the researchers say.
The number of donated organs that could be transplanted into patients could increase greatly if there were a way to freeze and reheat organs without damaging the cells within them.
In the new work, scientists developed a way to safely thaw frozen tissues with the aid of nanoparticles particles only nanometers or billionths of a meter wide. (In comparison, the average human hair is about 100,000 nanometers wide.) [9 Most Interesting Transplants]
The researchers manufactured silica-coated nanoparticles that contained iron oxide. When they applied a magnetic field to frozen tissues suffused with the nanoparticles, the nanoparticles generated heat rapidly and uniformly. The tissue samples warmed up at rates of up to more than 260 degrees Fahrenheit (130 degrees Celsius) per minute, which is 10 to 100 times faster than previous methods.
The scientists tested their method on frozen human skin cells, segments of pig heart valves and sections of pig arteries. None of the rewarmed tissues displayed signs of harm from the heating process, and they preserved key physical properties such as elasticity. Moreover, the researchers were able to wash away the nanoparticles from the sample after thawing.
Previous research successfully thawed tiny biological samples that were only 1 to 3 milliliters in volume. This new technique works for samples that are up to 50 milliliters in size. The researchers said there is a strong possibility they could scale up their technique to even larger systems, such as organs.
"We are at the level of rabbit organs now," said study senior author John Bischof, a mechanical and biomedical engineer at the University of Minnesota. "We have a way to go for human organs, but nothing seems to preclude us from that."
However, this research will likely not make it possible to return frozen heads back to life anytime soon, if ever, the scientists noted.
Since the first successful kidney transplant in 1954, organ transplantation has saved the lives of hundreds of thousands of patients. If it weren't for the large and growing shortage of donor organs, the life-saving procedure might help even more people. According to the U.S. Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network, more than 120,000 patients are currently on organ-transplant waitlists in the United States, and at least 1 in 5 patients on these waitlists die waiting for an organ that they never receive.
Right now, the majority of organs that could potentially be used for transplants are discarded, in large part because they can only be safely preserved for 4 to 36 hours. If only half the hearts and lungs that are discarded were successfully transplanted, the waitlists for those organs could be eliminated in two to three years, according to the Organ Preservation Alliance.
One way to save donated organs for transplantation is to freeze them. Ice crystals that can damage cells typically form during freezing, but in prior work, researchers have found a technique known as vitrification which involves flooding biological specimens with antifreeze-like compounds that could help cool down organs to stave off decay, while also preventing the formation of ice crystals.
Unfortunately, ice crystals can also form during the reheating process. Moreover, if thawing is not uniform across samples, fracturing or cracking may occur. Although scientists had developed methods to safely use freezing-cold temperatures to "cryopreserve" tissues and organs, they had not yet developed a way to safely reheat them. [5 Amazing Technologies That Are Revolutionizing Biotech]
In future research, scientists will attempt to transplant thawed tissues into living animals to see how well they do. "From my perspective and my collaborators' perspective, there is no reason why that should not work," Bischof told Live Science.
However, the researchers stressed that it was unlikely these findings would apply to the controversial field of cryonics, which seeks to freeze patients or their brains in the hope that future scientists will find a way to safely revive people. "There are huge scientific hurdles ahead of us, and it's rather premature to get into rewarming a whole person," Bischof said.
"Even if you preserved the whole body, the chances that neural pathways established during life were maintained during and after cryopreservation are probably remote," said study co-author Kelvin Brockbank, chief executive officer of Tissue Testing Technologies in North Charleston, South Carolina. "I don't think we'll see success for rewarming whole bodies within the next hundred years."
The scientists detailed their findings online March 1 in the journal Science Translational Medicine.
Original article on Live Science.
Our mighty Sun bathes Earth in a tender glow. Reach overhead on a cloud-free, summer day, and it almost feels like you can catch a few of its caressing rays. While your relaxing efforts will technically be unsuccessful, it should warm your heart to know that scientists have literally caught some of the Sun's rays. And you know what's even cooler? There's a place on Earth where you can actually hold a piece of the Sun!
Stored within two tidy cleanrooms at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas is a collection of metallic wafers and foils, and etched within their insides are particles of the solar wind. Fifteen years ago, these charged particles shot out into space from the Sun's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 750 kilometers per second. Usually, they'd trek out into the solar system, but on this occasion, something was waiting for them. Camped at a location between the Earth and Sun where their gravity's cancel out was a radiant spacecraft, fanned out to catch as much of the precious particles as possible.
The spacecraft was called Genesis, and for 850 days between December 2001 and April 2004, it captured as much of the Sun as it could within wafers and targets composed of materials like silicon, diamond, gold, aluminum, and sapphire.
A four-month journey back to Earth ensued. Afterwards, from high orbit, Genesis deployed a capsule containing the collection plates. On September 8, 2004, the capsule descended to Earth. After a fiery re-entry, the craft was intended to slowly float downwards, suspended by a massive parachute, where a hovering helicopter would safely catch it. But to scientists' horror, the parachute malfunctioned, and the capsule slammed into the Utah desert, spilling priceless pieces of the sun onto the heat-baked sand.
The word "disaster" seemed fitting for the scene as officials approached the Genesis wreckage, but as scientists examined the scraps, they soon realized that all was far from lost. Many of the collecting devises were shattered, but others were largely intact, with the solar samples safely embedded inside. Recovering them was a matter of sifting through and removing contaminants from the crash site, a tedious task to be sure, but entirely accomplishable. By January 2005, the first wafer was deemed fit for analysis. Scientists now had their unspoiled piece of the Sun, and they set about examining it.
NASA's Genesis spacecraft, launched in August 2001, was designed to collect solar wind samples and return them to Earth. (Image credit: NASA/JPL)
Analyses returned some fascinating results. For one, researchers determined that hypothetical particles called solar energetic particles did not actually exist within the solar wind, countering a long-held supposition from the Apollo era. They also found (opens in new tab) that that the Sun has a higher proportion of Oxygen-16 (the most common isotope of the element) than Earth. That's strange, since the Earth and most everything in the solar system was born out of the same nebula. So what happened to the oxygen? Scientists still aren't sure. The Genesis samples also helped to slightly revise the known composition of the Sun.
There's undoubtedly more we can learn from the solar particles. For now, they are safely stored away, waiting for novel technologies and inquisitive scientists to unlock their secrets.
Original article on RealClearScience.
A particularly deadly strain of avian flu, currently found in China, has infected more people there this flu season than it has in any season since the virus was identified, a new report finds.
From October 2016 to February 2017, 460 people were reported infected with the H7N9 virus, according to the report, which was published today (March 3) by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This season is considered to be the fifth annual epidemic of the virus, which was first identified in early 2013.
During the first epidemic, which occurred in early 2013, 135 people were infected with the virus, according to the report. In the next epidemic, in 2013 to 2014, 320 people were infected; in the 2015 to 2016 epidemic, 226 people were infected; and in the 2015 to 2016 epidemic, 119 people were infected, according to the report. [The 9 Deadliest Viruses on Earth]
During those first four epidemics, 88 percent of the people who were infected with the H7N9 strain developed pneumonia, and 68 percent were admitted to the intensive care unit, according to the report. Forty-one percent of the patients died, the researchers found.
Indeed, the CDC says that most of the reported cases of the H7N9 virus have resulted in "very serious illness," though there have been a small number of milder cases reported.
Symptoms of the viral infection start with a high fever and cough, according to the CDC. In many cases, the illness progresses, and people can develop severe pneumonia, fluid in the lungs, septic shock and multiorgan failure, which can lead to death, the CDC says.
In the new report, the researchers noted that most of the infected people contracted the virus through contact with infected poultry. Although there have been several instances in which the virus hopped from one person to another, this "human-to-human spread" has been limited, as in, spreading from a sick person to someone in very close contact with that person, such as a caretaker.
For a virus to become pandemic, "sustained" human-to-human spread is necessary, the CDC says. In other words, a pandemic virus must be able to spread from one person to another, and then to another, and so on. The H7N9 virus is not currently spreading that way, although it is possible that the virus could mutate in a way that would give it the ability to spread easily from person to person, according to the CDC. Health officials are closely monitoring the virus for any of these changes, the CDC says.
The H7N9 virus has not been detected in humans or birds in the U.S., and therefore, the current risk to people in the U.S. is "considered to be very low," according to the CDC. However, CDC noted that it is possible that the virus could spread in the U.S., most likely via a traveler from China.
Originally published on Live Science.
MAMMOTH-1, an enormous Lyman-alpha nebula (ELAN) found in a protocluster 10 billion light-years away. The colors and contours indicate surface brightness, and the red arrows show its estimated size.
The discovery of a new and rarely seen nebula 10 billion light-years away has created a cosmic mystery: What is lighting up this dusty cloud of gases?
Researchers led by Zheng Cai, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of California, Santa Cruz, have discovered an "enormous Lyman-alpha nebula," or ELAN, only the third of these vast cosmic structures ever seen. A nebula is an interstellar cloud of gases and dust; an ELAN is a special kind of nebula, so named because it emits Lyman-alpha radiation a particular wavelength of light emitted when the electron in a hydrogen atom drops down to its lowest energy level.
The two other ELANS previously discovered are nicknamed the Slug Nebula (for UC Santa Cruz's idiosyncratic mascot) and the Jackpot Nebula (because it contains a whopping four quasars, extremely bright objects created by particles accelerating away from black holes). But the new ELAN is a head-scratcher. The Slug and the Jackpot have bright quasars illuminating their dust and gases, but the light source inside the newfound ELAN is a mystery. [Photos: The 12 Strangest Places on Earth]
"What's really odd here, and one of the hooks of the story, is there's nothing," said Jason X Prochaska, a professor of astronomy and astrophysics at UC Santa Cruz and one of the authors of the paper reporting the new nebula, available on the physics preprint website ArXiv. "There's the faint smudge of a galaxy, probably, but no quasar shining toward us."
A peek at the early universe
The mysterious ELAN is named MAMMOTH-1, after the Mapping the Most Massive Overdensities Through Hydrogen (MAMMOTH) project, led by Cai, which turned up the strange nebula. The goal of the project is to search for dense areas in the early universe; because it takes light from MAMMOTH-1 about 10 billion years to reach Earth, scientists are looking back in time to about 3 billion years after the Big Bang. In particular, Prochaska said, the research team is searching for protoclusters, which are the precursors to galaxy clusters.
These are "the most massive single structures in the universe," Prochaska said.
Cai, Prochaska and their colleagues use light from quasars to find these protoclusters. When a quasar shines through a protocluster, the patterns of light absorption can reveal details about these networks of galaxies. The protocluster holding MAMMOTH-1 near its center dubbed BOSS1441 is around 50 million light-years across, the researchers found. Or was, anyway. By now, the protocluster will have collapsed into a smaller, more mature galaxy cluster, Prochaska said. (A light-year is about 5.9 trillion miles, or 9.5 trillion kilometers.)
Looking for the light
ELANs are difficult to detect because they are so diffuse, Prochaska said. Directly observing one provides an opportunity to study how gases coalesce into galaxies, something that is usually possible only with computer simulations. [See Amazing Photos of Nebulas]
As for MAMMOTH-1's mysterious light source, the most likely candidate is an active galactic nucleus, or AGN, Prochaska said. (Quasars are one type of AGN.) Local dust, a few light-years from the AGN, may be obscuring it from view, he said. It should be easy to find the AGN by searching for infrared or longer wavelengths, Prochaska said.
"If we didn't see anything, that would kill that hypothesis, and we'd be scratching our heads," he said.
The research will be published in an upcoming issue of the Astrophysical Journal.
Original article on Live Science.
The cub is the first clouded leopard to be born from an artificial insemination procedure using cryopreserved (frozen, then thawed) semen.
A rare clouded leopard cub was born at the Nashville Zoo this week, making history for the vulnerable species.
The clouded leopard is one of the rarest cat species in the world, according to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, and the cat is difficult to breed in captivity. The as-yet-unnamed male cub is the first clouded leopard to be born from an artificial insemination procedure using cryopreserved (frozen, then thawed) semen. The cat's birth is part of conservation efforts by the Nashville Zoo and the Smithsonian to protect the species.
The cub was born on Wednesday (March 1) to Tula, a clouded leopard that was born and raised at the Nashville Zoo. Hormones were used to induce Tula's ovulation, the zoo explained, and her eggs were fertilized with semen that had been taken from the male clouded leopard at Smithsonian's National Zoo, named Hannibal. [Photos: World's Cutest Baby Wild Animals]
"This is an enormous accomplishment for both Nashville Zoo and the team at the Smithsonian," Heather Robertson, director of veterinary services at the Nashville Zoo, said in a statement. "It means we can collect and preserve semen from clouded leopard populations around the globe and improve pregnancy outcomes from AI [artificial insemination] procedures in this species."
Though the name might suggest otherwise, the species is not actually a leopard. In fact, the cats belong to their own genus, Neofelis. Clouded leopards are smaller in stature compared to their namesake, and the Smithsonian describes the species as bridging the gap between big cats, like lions and tigers, and smaller cats, like lynx.
The cub is the first clouded leopard to be born from an artificial insemination procedure using cryopreserved (frozen, then thawed) semen. (Image credit: Amiee Stubbs/Nashville Zoo)
Scientists have said that estimating the number of clouded leopards in the wild is difficult, given the clouded leopards' elusive nature, but experts have said the population is shrinking. The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies the species as "vulnerable," with fewer than 10,000 left in the wild.
With the success of this new cub's birth, breeding facilities like the Nashville Zoo will continue to work with artificial insemination specialists to expand the population of clouded leopards, according to Smithsonian officials.
After the new cub's birth, keepers examined and tended to it, including teaching it how to raise its paws. According to zoo officials, this paw-raising will lower the cub's stress for future hands-on care as the baby is raised at the zoo.
Original article on Live Science.
Cracks appear
(Image credit: Kelly M. Grow/ California Department of Water Resources via Getty Images)
On Feb. 7, a small hole appeared in the Oroville spillway, which is meant to provide overflow relief for the Oroville Dam in Northern California.
First hole
(Image credit: Kelly M. Grow/ California Department of Water Resources via Getty Images)
The hole, shown here on Feb. 7 triggered an evacuation of nearly 200,000 people. Ultimately, however, with more rains coming, water-department officials decided they needed to use the damaged spillway to continue lowering the water levels in Lake Oroville, so that water didn't overtop the dam and cause truly catastrophic devastation.
Rushing waters
(Image credit: Kelly M. Grow/ California Department of Water Resources via Getty Images)
On Feb. 9, the Lake Oroville spillway flows late Thursday afternoon as 35,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) of water was released over the damaged spillway February 9, 2017 in Oroville, California.
No choices
(Image credit: Florence Low/ California Department of Water Resources/Getty Images)
Water flows down the Oroville Dam main spillway at 55,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) February 11, 2017 in Oroville, California.
Huge erosion
(Image credit: Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images)
The scale of the damage and erosion at the Oroville Spillway can already be seen on Feb. 13.
Scale of erosion
(Image credit: Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images)
On Feb. 13, water flowed down the Oroville Spillway. The huge area covered by the water's outlet gives a hint of the scale of erosion below.
Pounding waterfall
(Image credit: Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images)
On Feb. 14, sprays from the pounding waterfall cascading over the Oroville Spillway created a rainbow. The pounding whitewater was causing extensive damage to the spillway and mountainside beneath it.
Extensive damage
(Image credit: Dale Kolke /CA Dept. of Water Resources/Reuters/Newscom)
An aerial view of the damaged Oroville Dam spillway site with a huge debris field in the diversion pool area just below the spillway on February 27, 2017 in Oroville, California.
Swept away
(Image credit: Rich Pedroncelli/AP)
A small flow of water goes down Oroville Dam's crippled spillway Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2017, in Oroville, California.
Dramatic difference
(Image credit: Expedition 50 crew/NASA/JSC)
The erosion in the Oroville Spillway can be seen from space on Feb. 22 in this image taken by a member of the Expedition 50 crew on the International Space Station. The outlet flow appears markedly wider halfway down the spillway.
oroville-massive-erosion
(Image credit: Dale Kolke / California Department of Water Resources)
The massive amount of erosion can be seen from above in the diversion pool just below the spillway in this photo taken Feb. 27.
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A prominent Laredo banker who drew ire as a fundraiser for Donald Trump spoke against some of the president's key policies Wednesday, saying the White House needs to rethink its positions on Mexico.
Weve all seen massive positive influence from that agreement, IBC Bank CEO Dennis Nixon said in a meeting with the San Antonio Express-News Editorial Board. One in five jobs in Texas is tied to trade. So youd better be careful or you could end up putting Texas into a big hole and not being able to recover.
He cited the Toyota plant in San Antonio: it would not exist if it wasnt for Mexico.
Nixons comments come as Texas Secretary of State Rolando Pablos, a Republican, departs for Mexico City to smooth relations amid Trumps calls to reopen the North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico, build a border wall, tax Mexican imports and purge the U.S. of unauthorized immigrants who have committed crimes.
Texas Gov. Greg Abott, who plans to meet with Mexican leaders in a few weeks, is extremely bullish about maintaining the states $200 billion annual cross-border trade with Mexico, Pablos said Monday.
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International Bancshares Corp., the Laredo-based parent company of International Bank of Commerce, has a corporate office thats a stones throw from the Rio Grande and gets a lot of business from Mexican nationals with homes and businesses on the Texas side. As such, Nixon said the bank is deeply invested in strong U.S.-Mexico trade and relations, which Trumps tough talk has put at risk.
It riled some Democratic leaders last year to learn that a business leader close to the border and from one of the nations bluest counties helped host a Trump fundraiser in San Antonio held on the same day and in the same city as the state Democratic Convention.
Nixon contributed $36,100 to the Trump Victory Fund and $5,400 to Trump himself, on top of $66,800 to the Republican National Committee, according to federal campaign data.
Nixon explained himself with a June 8 fundraising letter to friends and colleagues urging them to support Trump because the other choices voting for Democrat Hillary Clinton or not voting at all were unacceptable.
We need a candidate who can cut the red tape and lift the regulatory burdens off the backs of business, so that companies can grow, expand, and create jobs, Nixon wrote. I do believe that if Donald Trump wins, he will engage in the traditional thinking of solving real problems and getting our fiscal house in order.
Still, Nixons visit to the Express-News on Wednesday, the day after Trumps first address to a joint session of Congress, largely was about the damage some of Trumps most popular ideas could do to the Texas and border economies.
Nixon highlighted how Laredo has been the primary beneficiary of NAFTA, with free trade feeding its growth to the largest inland port and third largest Customs district in the United States.
Trade with Mexico and Canada has grown from basically near zero to well past a trillion dollars, and every state of the union has benefited, he said. That is something that I dont think should be unwound because its been mutually beneficial.
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He agreed with Trump that some of the countrys trade deals were unfair and that the 23-year-old NAFTA needed to be revisited to take in Mexicos newly opened oil and gas industry as well as technical advances that have transformed commerce.
However, he said he was frightened that Trump may be going overboard on nationalism and said border communities already were seeing a backlash against Trumps insulting tone and proposal for tariffs on Mexicos exports to the U.S.
Mexico has already done some boycotting of American institutions in Mexico, he said. Weve seen travel diminish along the border. Weve seen fewer shoppers, fewer people coming. We are not going to be able to do these things without some sort of response. You slap me, I slap you back.
Plans to increase the number of Customs and Border Protection agents and spend $20 billion on a border wall missed the point that unauthorized immigrant apprehensions have declined from a peak of 1.6 million to about 400,000 last year, he said. He blamed the more recent surge of unaccompanied minors from Central America on a system that encouraged them to come.
Weve gone out and increased the Border Patrol, increased the Border Patrol, increased the Border Patrol, and all theyre doing is catching more and more people that we cant process and handle with the legal system, he said.
Nixon passed out a pamphlet, Common Sense Border Security Solutions: Thoughts from Dennis E. Nixon, which among other things suggests beefing up the immigration system instead of releasing minors to relatives due to backlogged courts, clearing the Rio Grande of nonnative weeds and Carrizo cane that impede border apprehensions, and building riverside patrol roads for the Border Patrol.
As for whether hed gotten Trumps ear on his concerns, he said hed tried.
Ive mentioned it and Ive talked to him about it, he said. I havent had an hour where I could sit down and say pay attention to these issues. Ive had spurts and moments that I could talk to him and Ive talked to a lot of good people around him. And I believe theyll eventually see the reason.
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For half an hour Friday morning, suspected bank robbers in a black Mercedes sedan led police on a high-speed chase across Houston highways and through some neighborhoods. Two civilians helped wrestle one suspect to the ground.
A man and his adult son subdued the sedan's driver when he tried to carjack them after ditching the damaged Mercedes, Houston police Capt. Larry Satterwhite said.
"He saw what was going on and went to protect his father," Satterwhite said of the son, who intervened when the two suspects bailed from the sedan about 11:15 a.m. on Enid near the Loop 610 interchange with the North Freeway.
A second suspect ran from the Mercedes into back yards of a residential area near a church. Police officers pursued on foot and detained the second suspect within minutes.
Television footage from the scene shows what appeared to be a red Wells Fargo bag sitting on the trunk. Satterwhite said the suspects had tossed other bags, some of which police had recovered.
Police said the suspect's driving resulted in the damages to the Mercedes, apparently including a blown-out front left tire. They believe the car was involved in other crimes as well.
The chase ended without any known injuries, Houston police said. Spokeswoman Jodi Silva confirmed that officers had two suspects in custody but could not say whether police are looking for any additional suspects.
Houston police joined the chase about 10:45 a.m. at the request of Bellaire police after a robbery at an Amegy Bank in the 5300 block of Bissonnet, HPD spokesman Victor Senties said.
Two men went into the bank with guns, according to police at the scene of the chase. A person inside the bank hid during the robbery and called police to provide a description of the suspects.
Around 11 a.m. the car was speeding south on Interstate 45 after initially heading north on the freeway. The driver was weaving through traffic and eventually exited onto the North Loop 610.
About 11:10 a.m. the car took off into neighborhood streets in the Memorial Park area. The driver hit several other vehicles, ignored stop signs and drove the wrong way on one-way streets.
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Local News, Community, Charity & Cause, Health & Wellness, Press Releases
By Long Island News & PR Published: March 03 2017
All eligible blood donors are encouraged to give blood and help save lives in March, Red Cross Month.
New York / East Hampton, NY - March 1, 2017 - All eligible blood donors are encouraged to give blood and help save lives in March, Red Cross Month. Donating is easier than ever with the Blood Donor App and RapidPass.
With the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, donors can conveniently schedule and manage donation appointments, access their donor card, track the impact of their donations and earn rewards. Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questions online before coming to their appointments.
I've always thought it was the right thing to do, to donate when it was convenient for me, said Lance Ford. But after my triplets were born premature and needed transfusions in the neonatal intensive care unit, I decided that it was more important to seek out opportunities to donate, rather than just waiting until it was convenient to me. The Red Cross apps and notifications make it very easy to find a location near you, and they are so courteous, respectful and efficient. There is really no excuse not to donate. It's such a small thing that makes such a big difference!
March has been recognized as Red Cross Month by every U.S. president since 1943 in celebration of the Red Cross volunteers who help those in need by giving their time, money or blood. Join their ranks by making an appointment to give blood by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800- RED CROSS (1-800- 733-2767).
Upcoming blood donation opportunities:
Suffolk
East Hampton
3/17/2017: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., YMCA East Hampton, 2 Gingerbread Lane
Stony Brook
3/20/2017: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Stony Brook University
New York City
3/16/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., American Red Cross in Greater New York, 520 West 49th Street
3/17/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., AVA High Line, 525 West 28th Street
3/18/2017: 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Union Baptist Church, 240 West 145th
3/20/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., American Red Cross in Greater New York, 520 West 49th Street
3/21/2017: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Hunter College West Building, 695 Park Avenue
3/21/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., American Red Cross in Greater New York, 520 West 49th Street
3/23/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., American Red Cross in Greater New York, 520 West 49th Street
3/27/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., American Red Cross in Greater New York, 520 West 49th Street
3/28/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., American Red Cross in Greater New York, 520 West 49th Street
3/31/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., American Red Cross in Greater New York, 520 West 49th Street
How to help
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-
800-RED CROSS (1-800- 733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or drivers license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nations blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for- profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
Crime, Press Releases
By Long Island News & PR Published: March 03 2017
Suffolk County Police have arrested four people during New York State Liquor Authority inspections at Town of Babylon businesses.
Town of Babylon, NY - March 2, 2017 - Suffolk County Police have arrested four people during New York State Liquor Authority inspections at Town of Babylon businesses.
Officers from the First Precinct Crime Section conducted an underage alcohol and tobacco check on March 1 at 11 businesses in the Town of Babylon.
The following were arrested for Unlawfully Dealing with a Child 1st Degree and Prohibited Sale to a Person Under 21:
Abdul Razzaq, 56, of Holbrook, who was employed at Flame Grocery, located at 500 Oak St., Copiague
John Gao, 28, of Flushing, who was employed at Citgo Gas, located at 195 West Hoffman Ave., Lindenhurst
Saqib Lal, 24, of East Meadow, who was employed at BP Gas Shop, located at 697 North Wellwood Ave., North Lindenhurst
Iqbal Gulkhez, 31, of Central Islip, the owner of Flame Grocery, was charged with Alcohol Consumption on Premise without a License, a violation of ABC law.
All four were issued Field Appearance Tickets and are scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip at a later date.
The following businesses complied with the New York State law and refused the sale of alcohol/tobacco to a minor:
Channel Deli, located at 377 Oak Street, Copiague
Ultra Gas, located at 571 Montauk Highway, Lindenhurst
Conoco Gas, located at 500 Route 109, West Babylon
Citgo Gas, located at 328 Route 109, West Babylon
OK Petroleum, located at 755 Deer Park Ave., North Babylon
Sunoco, located at 1000 Route 109, N. Lindenhurst
Valero, located at 1200 Wellwood Ave., West Babylon
Shell, located at 1160 Straight Path, West Babylon
A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Local News, Crime, National & World News, Press Releases
By Long Island News & PR Published: March 03 2017
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo issued a statement following an arrest made in relations to the recent threats against Jewish community centers.
All New Yorkers who have experienced bias or discrimination are encouraged to call DHRs toll-free hotline at (888) 392-3644 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday Friday or text HATE to 81336.
Albany, NY - March 3, 2017 - The recent increase in anti-Semitic threats and acts of intolerance is disturbing, unacceptable, and directly contradicts New Yorks core values of tolerance and diversity. Todays arrest sends a strong message that anyone who targets and instills fear in our communities will be brought to justice.
New York State Police will continue to work in close partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and local law enforcement to aggressively pursue investigations into any reported hate crime in our state. We will remain vigilant in our efforts to hold those responsible for these reprehensible actions fully accountable under the law.
With the Statue of Liberty standing tall in our harbor, New York has always been and will continue to be a beacon of unity and hope for all, and we will not allow anyone to threaten those values."
All New Yorkers who have experienced bias or discrimination are encouraged to call DHRs toll-free hotline at (888) 392-3644 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday Friday or text HATE to 81336. If you want to report a crime or fear for your safety, call 911 immediately.
Crime, Press Releases
By Long Island News & PR Published: March 03 2017
The Major Case Bureau reports the arrest of a Farmingdale man for Burglaries which occurred in February 2017 in Nassau County.
Ismael Rahman, 37, of Farmingdale was placed under arrest without incident after an extensive investigation.
Nassau County, NY - March 3, 2017 - The Major Case Bureau reports the arrest of a Farmingdale man for Burglaries which occurred in February 2017 in Nassau County.
According to detectives, the Burglary Pattern Team along with the Fifth Squad and New York State Parole arrested Ismael Rahman, 37, of Farmingdale in connection with the following burglaries:
On Sunday February 19, 2017 at 10:26 pm he entered Midas Muffler shop located at 328 Hempstead Turnpike, West Hempstead and took an undisclosed amount of cash.
On Monday February 20, 2017 at 5:39 am he entered the American Muffler Shop located at 655 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square and took an undisclosed amount of cash.
On Thursday, February 23, 2017 at 6:00 pm he entered the American Muffler Shop a second time and removed an undisclosed amount of cash.
On Friday, February 24, 2017 at 12:01 am he entered Broadway Auto & Towing located at 421 North Main Street, Freeport and took an undisclosed amount of cash.
On Friday February 24, 2017 at 1:12 am he entered Village Express Deli located at 198 North Main Street, Freeport and took an undisclosed amount of cash.
On Friday February 24, 2017 at 7:45 am he entered a Stratford Road, West Hempstead home and attempted to take property before he was confronted by a homeowner. Rahman fled on foot with no proceeds. No injuries were reported.
On Friday February 24, 2017 at 6:10 pm he entered Triple A1 Transmissions located at 66 Hempstead Turnpike, West Hempstead and attempted to steal property. No proceeds were taken.
On Friday, February 24, 2017 at 7:25 pm he entered R an M Service Station located at 260 Hempstead Turnpike and removed an undisclosed amount of cash.
After an extensive investigation Rahman was located on March 2, 2017 at 12:30 pm at Nassau County Medical Center where he was placed under arrest without incident.
Rahman is charged with Burglary 2nd degree and seven counts of Burglary 3rd degree. He will be arraigned on Friday, March 03, 2017 at First District Court in Hempstead.
Karine and Tom tied the knot on 17th July at The Asylum Chapel an incredible venue ripe in the essence of decayed decadence. It played the perfect, textural backdrop for these gorgeous images taken by Heather Shuker of Eclection Photography and film, created by Gione de Silva suppliers we recommend most highly through our Little Book For Brides wedding directory. Which, by the way, if you havent bookmarked yet, you really need to.
Tom and I met at university in 2012. We got engaged four years later in the autumn of 2016 and then got married on the 16th of February 2016 at islington town hall with only two close friends in attendance. I am from Lebanon and Tom is from London, so it wasnt really feasible to get everyone together in London in February on short notice, especially friends and family that had to travel all the way from Beirut, Paris and the U.S. We decided to throw a wedding party and a church blessing on the 17th of July so that we could celebrate our marriage with everyone.
Film by Gione de Silva
Our photographer Heather Shuker of Eclection Photography was excellent at capturing our day. She made sure the mood of our photos perfectly reflected the atmosphere in the room. She has a great understanding of light and incorporates it beautifully in photos. She was especially good at making sure all the right moments were captured, even though she had to somewhat compete with the overenthusiastic Lebanese guests and their camera phones! Heather was supported by second shooter, Paula Broome.
Images by Eclection Photography
My Dress is called Lake by Amsale. I bought it from a bridal boutique in Beirut called: LAtelier Blanc. The dress was entirely made of pretty floral corded lace cut-outs , so it was very sheer and light. As soon as I tried it on the first time I felt like myself in it. I also pictured it at our chapel, and it made sense there.
The negative spaces between the flowers on the fabric made me think of how the stained-glass windows made the light flood into the room in separate beams. I added a layer of tulle to the skirt and wore it to the ceremony, but then took it off to keep it light for dancing.
I wore Elie Saab the fragrance is purely mediterranean: orange blossom and jasmine. To me, this smells like home.
The accessories I wore included an antique seed pearl necklace from a market in north London. It is very delicate and the pearls are minute. I wore an heirloom gold bracelet belonging to my great-grandma that my mother offered me on the morning of my wedding day. My earrings were also purchased from an antique market.
They are two golden swallows dotted with seed pearls, that used to be attached to the same Victorian brooch. I had them separated and made into earrings to go with the necklace. I wore my wedding band and my engagement ring which was an antique opal and diamonds toi et moi style victorian ring.
I made my own shoes! I have made shoes in the past after having taken a shoemaking class, and thought that I would give it a go. I made my wedding shoes out of light dusty blue suede and added some pearl beaded-lace to the heals. They turned out just as I had wanted them and were very comfortable to wear.
I stamped mine and Toms initials to the outsole as well as our wedding date. Making my shoes was by far the least stressful part of wedding planning for me!
Both of my sisters wore custom-made peachy-pink sheer lace dresses by Maison Roula. Toms sister wore a navy blue Monsoon dress. The bridesmaids also wore natural waxflower buds (Chamelaucium) in their hair.
We chose Red Eden Olive to do our flowers. They are the resident florists at Brunswick House, so they knew their way around the venue and had a great eye for what floral arrangements accentuate the eccentricity of the space. We opted for wildflowers because they suited the rustic feel of both venues.
I decided really early on that I wanted the bouquets and arrangements to be asymmetrical, with lots of foliage, and a great mix of blooms, buds and berries.
The mens buttonholes were made out of a single mini succulent plant. For the ceremony, we had two large urns at the altar with trailing leaves, as well as cascading greenery all around the back curve of the chapel.
The altar was covered with many candles and the sides of the chapel had string lights lining the walls. The chair backs were decorated with round floral circlets of blue canterbury bells, scabious, delphinium, chocolate cosmos, waxflower, succulents and olive leaves.
My sisters and my cousin entered the ceremony first, followed by Toms sister and our dog Juno. Juno wore a wreath of artificial flowers around her neck and walked elegantly down the aisle. She then spent the whole ceremony at the feet of the musicians having a little snooze.
Our parents were a bit nervous about having a dog at the wedding ceremony, but Juno ended up being perfectly behaved and made for some awesome photo opps. My father and I walked down the aisle together after them a live string quartet playing an instrumental cover of Here Comes the Sun, by The Beatles.
Walking down the aisle was terrifying but I remember feeling overwhelmed by how pretty the blue of the chapel looked and how everyone I loved was in the same room and how they were all smiling.
During our ceremony, Toms mother Rosie read: 1 Corinthians 13:4. My cousin Christiane read in Arabic: John 2:1-11. The Arabic reading was chosen by my grandma who couldnt fly to London for the wedding, but whom we still wanted to include. The reading is set in Lebanon at a wedding celebration.
Brunswick House is one of our favourite places in London. It is actually an antique shop that uses one of its rooms as a restaurant. So when we found out that the whole house can be hired for a wedding we didnt hesitate to book it.
The entrance gate to Brunswick House was decorated with a large foliage arch. The ceiling was decked in green chandeliers and the tables were decorated with candelabras with foliage and flowers twisted around as well as shorter bouquets spread about the table in silver votives.
The food is delicious, especially the pudding. They have a great wine list and cocktail bar. Everything in the house is for sale. The chairs, tables, rugs, vases, fireplaces etc all of it is on display and for sale, but also is a functional part of the dining room and the reception and drinks room.
The ceiling was covered in antique chandeliers and lights, so the lighting was very dimmed and romantic and we really only needed to do very little to it to make it fit for a wedding. As for the chapel, Asylum is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in London.
Tom and I placed canvas tote bags from The Clever Baggers on every seat as wedding favours. We had their fronts printed with an illustration I made of our dog Juno.
The moment we saw it, we booked it, and booked everything else around it. It is difficult to describe Asylum chapel but I think our photographer Heather captured the essence of it.
My sister designed our invites. She made us transparent envelopes with the guests calligraphied names on the front. The invite itself was made on gorgeous grained paper. She designed and handpainted a monogram of our initials in the shape of interlacing leaves and flowers.
The printing was smooth and watercolor-like, and incorporated gold metallic accents. Brunswick House used their own layouts for the menus, and I hand-made our order of service, table plan and place cards.
Our cake by Lily Vanilli was inspired by our flowers. We had a rose and pistachio flavoured cake with lots of succulents and flowers for decoration.
We had a secret hidden first dance. Somewhere in the playlist we had Northen Sky, by Nick Drake, and everyone danced to it so we didnt have to feel the pressure of dancing while everyones watching.
Words of Wedded Wisdom
Take lots of mental pictures of all the intimate moments, looks and smiles you share with your loved ones. It does pass in a blur.
An incredible wedding, beautifully photographed, though Id expect nothing less from Eclection Photography, whose work I absolutely adore sharing on Love My Dress more of which you can see here on these much loved wedding blog pages.
Thank you so much
Cars
The new issue covers the upcoming boat shows until 2018 and even provide an exclusive look at a Lurssen masterpiece
Mar 03, 2017 | By Vimi Haridasan
YACHT STYLE 37, the People and Boat Show Issue, has been released in mid-February after a busy winter season in Asia. In this issue, the yacht experts celebrate the Whos Who of Yachting in Asia, a list that salutes those who shape the yachting scene in the region. This year, emphasis has been put on younger Asian faces, while special tribute has been made to their elders who pioneered the industry.
The magazine then takes a tour of what is available in and around boat shows from March 2017 to March 2018 and what will attract an Asian based audience from yachts to luxury lifestyle experiences. On the shipyard side, they explain how Chinas largest motor yacht builder Heysea is creating a global sales network. Next, they dig into the roots of Prestige Yachts, with a focus on the visionary design of Vittorio Garroni.
In YACHT STYLE exclusive, the magazine presents the elegant Lurssen masterpiece Coral Ocean (73m) that has never published in any magazine before and is now available for charter in 2017 via Burgess Yachts. Finally, they sea trial the Pershing 70 and the MCY 80. Also reviewed are the latest model offerings to arrive in Asia, including the SanLorenzo 46 Steel and the Zeelander Z44, which made its Asian premiere during the SINGAPORE RENDEZVOUS.
On the regatta front, they have compiled a rich review of exciting events in the region from November to January. The destination features then brings them to the exotic islands of Indonesia, cruising aboard the luxurious Aman Yachts, and finally on an exploration journey up north to Svalbard, Norway, with Latitudes adventurous owner.
As Spring arrives, YACHT STYLE will release issue 38: The Charter Issue, whilst the exclusive Feadship Heritage Fleet gets a spotlight moment, and they discover the latest must-have water toys for your superyacht.
Properties / Hotels
An elegant extravagance, The Reverie Saigon provides a perfect perspective on the fast rising metropolis in the heart of Vietnam
Mar 03, 2017 | By Teri Chong
Saigon is known to be a city chock full of contrasts. Amidst peaceful historical structures stand sparkling skyscrapers; an ancient temple alongside office buildings is The Reverie Saigon. A vision of Italian opulence, the 286-room hotel is smack dab in the prime location of Saigons District 1. The hotel occupies the upper and lower floors of the 39-storey Times Square tower, with each of its rooms designed to elegant perfection. Juxtaposing European accents with an Asian location, The Reverie Saigon is a treasure trove for the most luxurious. We dive into 5 reasons of why The Reverie Saigon gives other accommodations a run for their money.
1. Exquisite Decor
Step into the lobby and be awed by the magnificent marble tops and mirrors. Reminiscent of an Italian palazzo, the decor is unabashedly dripping in sparkling gems and gold accents. The decor is bold and strong, inspired by the grandeur and brilliance of European luxury. Boasting interiors that feature hints of art-deco styles seamlessly intertwined with sheer elegance. The Reverie Lounge is a microcosm of what the hotel has to offer.
The space is dressed by Italian interior designer Visionnaire, with works by budding Vietnamese artists displayed around the venue. The most striking piece rests on the seventh floor lobby a bespoke 3-metre tall Baldi Firenze clock. Embellished by hand-made mosaics in malachite and detailed in 24k gold plated accents, the clock is just one of the many extravagant pieces furnishing the hotel.
2. Extraordinary Rooms
Uniformed rooms be gone! The Reverie Saigon has already shown its prowess in defying conformity through its decor, but what about its rooms? All 224 rooms and 62 suites in the hotel promise to add their own character. Collaborating with Italys leading design houses Visionnaire, Cassina, Giorgetti, Colombostile and Polrona Frau to provide only the top interiors, each room exudes its own personality, from the sophisticated to sheer whimsicality.
Lounge on beds covered with Frette Linen while admiring spectacular views of the Saigon River and the city skyline. The Reverie Saigon has luxury down to a tee, with bathroom amenities by Chopard in rooms as well as Hermes or Acqua di Parma for suites. The hotels most expensive suites The Saigon Suite and The Reverie Suite are done to a spectacular finish, with brocade wallpaper lining the walls and living rooms clad in marble.
3. Decadent Dining
Take your pick from the hotels four dining venues: Cafe Cardinal, The Royal pavilion, R&J and The Long @ Times Square. Just like the rooms, each of these dining venues ventures to show their own unique flavour.
Perched on the sixth floor, the Cafe Cardinal offers delicate French cuisine along with aerial views of the city. Offering all-day dining, the predominantly French menu also accommodates Asian dishes during lunch and breakfast services. Another European influenced restaurant R&J, helms Italian cuisine. Influenced by the passionate lovers of its namesake, the subterranean restaurant is furnished with vibrant mosaics and a stunning collection of deliberately different dining chairs, reflecting youthfulness.
Despite its largely European influenced scenography, the hotel does not forget its oriental roots. Tucked away in a warren of nine private rooms, The Royal Pavilion celebrates Asian cuisine with a menu stuffed full of fine Cantonese dining. In need of a drink after a decadent meal? The Long @ Times Square is the hotels cafe-bar, best-suited for those who want to unwind after a day of activities.
4. Immersive Activities
Get your adrenaline fix with The Reverie Saigons activities. Amidst all the glitz and glamour, the hotel has also injected a little spirit of adventure. The hotel has teamed up with Vespa Adventures to bring Cruising Saigon, a one-of-a-kind package that includes a private two-hour sunset cruise along the Saigon River.
The journey starts with a relaxing river ride along the Saigon River, topped with a picnic hamper filled with bites prepared by the hotels culinary team. The adventure starts as soon as the sun sets, with a city-chic journey against a purple hued backdrop atop a vintage Vespa. The Saigon After Dark food and festival fun will take you on a ride through the throngs of Saigons nightlife. The tour includes zig sagging into alleys and nooks and crannies of District 4 for authentic street food and the best coffee houses. Concluding at a lively club with a local cover band, the night is surely not one to be missed.
5. The Spa
Dubbed Vietnams most exclusive city spa, The Spa at the Reverie Saigon is a state-of-the-art wellness center. Keeping with the hotels distinctive European setting, the spa commands in total 1,200 square meters of the sixth and seventh floors. With 10 private treatment rooms, steam and sauna facilities and four individual rooms for pampering, the genuine Vietnamese hospitality shows true in the tiptop service offered.
Moving Forward
In a destination as exotic and far-flung as Saigon, theres often the expectation to design a hotel that very obviously references the destinations heritage, said Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, the Austrian general manager whose roots in Vietnam go back to 2008. This hotel, however, is a transcendent gesture. Were fast-forwarding to the day when Saigon takes its rightful place as one of Asias leading cities, when upscale travelers will expect the very best attainable not merely the very best in Vietnam, but the very best anywhere.
A symbol of urban opulence, The Reverie Saigon is poised to cater to all your needs. Prices for a room start at USD 350 to USD 12,000 and 15,000 respectively for the Saigon and Reverie suites respectively.
For more information, do visit The Reverie Saigon.
11 PHOTOS click for more
Ive been told for years just how intense Paris Fashion Week is how its nothing like New York, not even close, how its grander not because its trying to be but because of the architecture and the romance and the history, how all of the shows are farther apart from one another than in Manhattan so theres more of a rush (and a bigger exhale when you make it) and how the clothes on the Paris runways cant help but inspire.
Maria Grazia Chiuris Fall 2017 collection for Dior felt like her version of an exhale. Her take denim tuxedos and a sumptuous, velour-like hooded suit in heavy midnight blue seemed relaxed and at ease. It was as though she were creating clothes that she, too, might want to wear rather than what the house of Christian Dior suggests she should create. Chiuris Spring collection for Dior wasnt her greatest hit. I was into it, but a lot of people felt she played it safe. I think shes taking her time.
This round, the whole collection was blue varying shades of it that connoted an air of calm, cool and collected. I was not, standing in the back, overheated from an early cab exit plus a power walk in fear of missing DIOR. Everyone warned me these Paris shows start on time, but this one didnt, and Im pretty sure the hold-up was Rihanna, the ultimate Big Chill, who made her entrance in a leather beanie. It was the same one the models wore on the runway, beat poet meets The Matrix but stripped of any other similar reference because of all that blue.
I, meanwhile, came in hot off a plane this Friday morning and went straight into the whirlwind; appointments followed by Dior a show that, though it didnt hit me until I arrived there I had been waiting my whole career to see. I didnt even consider that it could let me down (the whole dont meet your idols thing) until after. It didnt, and I let out a sigh of relief.
Photos via Vogue Runway.
Dow 19,20,21.Faster, Faster!
Arent you glad that the Dow leaped to 21,000 today. I mean, just three weeks ago its low for the day was 20,015. In fact, on November 22, 2016 the Dow crossed 19,000 for the first time.
Yet why the hurry to get in now? The 8 year US QE assisted bull market has yet to see a 20% decline since 2008. In fact, since the Feb 11, 2017 low, the S&P 500 hasnt had a weekly decline (Fri to Fri close) of even 2.5%. Even based on Goldman Sachs recent research we know the S&P 500 has not seen a 1% decline over the last 96 days, a feat only topped 3 times since 1980, none since 2000.
I know, we continue to hear as Americans we can spend and borrow trillions temporarily of course from other nations to spend on our infrastructure and military since foreign nations have shown no limit to their appetite for our treasuries.
[Source Foreigners Are Dumping Treasuries as Never Before, Wolf Street, 12/15/16]
As investors and traders we have forgotten the historical and fundamental reality that if borrowing costs rise across the world this impacts cash-flows from governments to businesses to consumers which ultimately affects stock prices.
[Source 30Y Yields Spike Tops 3% As March Rate Hike Odds Spike Above 80%, ZH, March 1 17]
With historical examples of the consequences of bubbles removed, it doesnt matter how we explain the quick gains. Experience is the only thing that matters. It is better to keep thinking of the certainty of more winnings from the bubble than the severe changes from former bubbles.
The fundamental myth that central banks must continue to foster, is that bubbles are hard to spot and debt fueled booms do not lead to debt crisis busts. Yet even the central bankers bank warned the global public of what we are facing as we start March 2017 when the Dow reached 17,000 in the summer of 2014.
An organization representing the world's main central banks warned on Sunday that dangerous new asset bubbles were forming even before the global economy has finished recovering from the last round of financial excess.
The temptation to postpone adjustment can prove irresistible, especially when times are good and financial booms sprinkle the fairy dust of illusory riches, the report said. The consequence is a growth model that relies on too much debt, both private and public, and which over time sows the seeds of its own demise. [Central Bankers, Worried About Bubbles, Rebuke Markets, NY Times, 6/29/14]
Will we read in the future, Central bankers warned of finance excess, illusory riches, and trusting in too much debt before the global financial bubble collapsed? Should someone inform the President of the Federal Reserve of Minneapolis, Neel Kashkari, that his recent statement that we are keeping our eyes open for asset prices to try and look for signs of bubbles reveal he needs to read the plethora of warnings in global banking reports for more than two years now? Maybe after this 13 month stock bull he should talk with former President of the Federal Reserve of Dallas, Richard Fisher who stated in January 2016, We front- loaded an enormous stock rally?
So when is enough, enough? When will more and more central bankers admit that THEY have and continue to be the root cause of a system that relies on too much debt and short-termism? When will the industry and public at large admit we have been here before, only with far less debt?
Time To Plan for The End of a Bubble?
Best Minds Inc has a new website and blog. Check out www.bestmindsinc.com for free blog and paid research newsletter. 2017 will bring significant opportunities and significant losses.
Doug Wakefield
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Best Minds Inc. a Registered Investment Advisor
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Phone - (940) 591 - 3000
Best Minds, Inc is a registered investment advisor that looks to the best minds in the world of finance and economics to seek a direction for our clients. To be a true advocate to our clients, we have found it necessary to go well beyond the norms in financial planning today. We are avid readers. In our study of the markets, we research general history, financial and economic history, fundamental and technical analysis, and mass and individual psychology
Doug Wakefield Archive
2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication.
Time For African Economic Miracle
In the 20th century, Africa gained political independence but fell behind economic boom. In the 21st century, it is Africas turn but not without stronger state and new external push.
After struggle against corruption, lawlessness and terror, President Buharis administration has outlined an economic recovery plan targeting 7 percent GDP growth rate from 2017 to 2020. While many African economies are hoping for takeoff in the coming years, Nigeria represents the regions greatest economic potential.
For longer than a century, Africas economic miracle has been a pipedream. But things are changing.
Stronger state, different external actors
In the mid-2000s, after decades in the slow lane, African economies hit the accelerator. But what lies ahead for the continent is not an open highway, says Justin Yifu Lin, World Banks former chief economist, with co-author Andrea Goldstein. If Africa is to achieve its potential as the next emerging-market engine of global economic growth, the two write, it will have to industrialize.
But the devil is in the details.
Ever since Britains first Industrial Revolution, the rise of labor-intensive light manufacturing (textiles, garments, shoes, and associated tools and machinery) has played a major role in pushing up national incomes. However, as Africa has not managed to participate fully in industrialization since the 1970s, it has lagged behind the rest of the developing world.
Lin and Goldstein advocate a new catalyst role for government. They emphasize that an effective industrial policy must cover not just manufacturing but the kind of economic activities that support it. This means vital role for external actors, particularly for large emerging economies, such as China, that are able and willing to participate in African growth.
After three decades of economic stagnation and income polarization in the name of freedom and democracy, Lin and Goldstein are right to stress a different, more inclusive view of economic development.
And yet, despite Africas great long-term potential, the future may prove more challenging than anticipated. The fact that Africa fell behind globalization and associated catch-up growth after the 1970s should not be associated with domestic economic choices only.
Historically, external geopolitical constraints have weighed heavily on Africas economic promise.
Legacies of colonialism and decolonization
During colonialism, the largest colonizers the British Empire and its European counterparts did contribute to the building of infrastructure in some African nations. Yet, the latter was geared to serve the colonizers economic and strategic needs, not those of the colonized. In Africa, the colonial efforts focused on raw materials and commodities that were most needed for the colonizers industrialization during and after the scramble for Africa in the late 19th century.
The great irony should not be discarded. Historically, Western Europes Belle Epoque (1870-1914) an era of great optimism, regional peace and stability, rapid industrialization and technology innovation went hand in hand with the Scramble for Africa; that is the devastating invasion, occupation, division, colonization and annexation of African territory by European powers during the period of new imperialism.
Moreover, the end of colonialism did not translate to rapid growth either. In the postwar Africa, political independence came often with great destabilization, which virtually ensured that nascent efforts at industrialization would fail, remain partial, or stall.
As the Nigerian story attests, political independence was followed with strife and fragmentation, civil wars, and sectarian divisions, which were further exploited by major powers and multinational giants during the Cold War. And yet, industrialization requires stability, not destabilization.
Illicit financial outflows, lawlessness and corruption
After the Cold War, interventionism by external powers has shifted toward economic exploits. Between 2004 and 2013 alone, developing and emerging economies lost $7.8 trillion in illicit financial flows (Global Financial Integrity), which averaged at 6.5 percent per year; that is, nearly twice as fast as global GDP.
Typically, Sub-Saharan African economies, despite very low prosperity levels, have a key role among those that have suffered the most outflows, including South Africa ($20.9 billion in average illicit financial flows 2004-13), Nigeria ($17.8 billion), Zambia ($2.9 billion), Ethiopia ($2.6 billion), Cote dIvoire ($2.3 billion), and so on.
Economic stability also requires appropriate institutions. Yet, according to the Rule of Law Index (World Justice Project), many African economies have low scores, including Cameroon, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia and so on. Even the best South Africa, Ghana, Botswana and Senegal do not make it to the top-40 list.
The same goes for corruption. According to Transparency International, corruption perceptions are greatest among African nations, including Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Guinea-Bissau, Chad, Central African Republic and Burundi. Even the best performer Botswana is not in the top-30 league. Nigerias rank is 136, along with those of Myanmar, Guinea and Mauritania.
The lesson is that if illicit financial flows are allowed to prevail, if the rule of law cannot be sustained and if corruption grows pervasive, even rapid industrialization or modest success at sustained economic growth will not contribute to economic modernization and rising living standards.
What African economies need is a series of industrial takeoffs across the entire region. That is a viable project, but not without stronger state catalyst and external actors participation, particularly large emerging economies such as China which have more in common with African nations than the slow-growing, rich Western economies.
Toward the Big Push
While nascent takeoffs have been evolving for a long while, they need a Big Push. Developing economies require large amounts of investments to embark on the path of economic development.
As in other developing regions, structural change in sub-Saharan Africa has been characterized by a significant decline in the share of the labor force engaged in agriculture. In a sense, this is progress; agriculture has been the least productive sector in African economies. But the bad news is that, unlike other developing regions, structural change in Africa has not yet been accompanied by a significant expansion in the share of the labor force employed in manufacturing.
Yet, the potential between the two regions is not that different. Between 2000 and 2010, overall labor productivity growth in Africa was second only to Asia, where structural change continued to play a vital positive role. The real difference is that, in emerging Asia, the share of employment in manufacturing is more than double the share of employment in manufacturing in low-income African countries.
Asian economies have been able and willing to industrialize; African countries have been willing, but not able to industrialize.
In the postwar era, development economist Gunnar Myrdal showed that the strong state and associated public institutions ensured sustained economic growth in advanced economies. In contrast, the soft state virtually ensured stagnation in Asia and other developing regions. Until recently, neoliberal policies have further contributed to arrested modernization in Africa, while keeping soft states in power.
In the early 21st century, the global landscape is finally shifting, but not because of initiatives in the advanced West. Rather, it is the rise of the large emerging economies in the past two decades that can finally offer a new and more realistic view of a strong state and the required push for industrialization.
What Africa needs is industrialization and inclusive growth for the many, not exploitation and exclusive growth for the few.
Dr. Dan Steinbock is an internationally recognised expert of the nascent multipolar world. He is the CEO of Difference Group and has served as Research Director at the India, China and America Institute (USA) and visiting fellow at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (China) and the EU Centre (Singapore). For more, see www.differencegroup.net
2017 Copyright Dan Steinbock - All Rights Reserved
Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors.
2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication.
Rapid Decline in Demand for Wage Slaves - Go Long Chain Makers
This is turning into a very rewarding series, it opens up vistas I could never have dreamed of. First, in Not Nearly Enough Growth To Keep Growing, I posited that peak wealth for the west, and America in particular, was sometime in the early 70s or late 60s of the last century.
That led to longtime Automatic Earth reader Ken Latta, whos old enough to have been alive to see it all, writing, in When Was Americas Peak Wealth?, that in his view peak wealth for America was earlier, more like late 50s to early 60s, a carefree period for which Detroit provided the design, and the Beach Boys the soundtrack.
And I know, for those who wrote to me about this, that theres quite a bit of myopia involved in focusing on the US, or even the western world in general, when discussing these things. But at the same time, were all at our best when talking about our own experiences, something this thread has made abundantly clear. That said, I would absolutely love to get a view from other parts of the world, China, Latin America, Africa, Eastern Bloc, on the same topic. I just havent received any yet.
What Ive absolutely adored is how -previously- anonymous Automatic Earth readers and commenters have felt the urge to share their life experiences because of whats been written. This happened especially after Kens follow-up to his initial article, Peak American Wealth Revisited, which saw many of his contemporaries, as well as younger readers after I poked them, relate their views.
Then there was distinguished emeritus professor Charles A. Hall, who took offense with neither Ken nor I including energy as an explicit factor in determining wealth. Of course he was right. I have the creeping suspicion he often is. So Charlie wrote Peak Wealth and Peak Energy. Which not only set us straight, it also generated a -privately- emailed response from Belgian scientists- also Automatic Earth readers- about work he has earlier published on EROI of for instance Spanish solar PV (2.45:1? That must hurt!). As of this morning, it looks as if this may lead to further cooperation. Whats not to love?
And then all this has fired up Ken Latta to write yet another article, this time on freely available energy before the age of oil -and after it!-, in the form of human slavery. In all of its forms and shapes, including wage slavery. Is it a coincidence that at the end of the age of oil, Americas -former- middle class appears to be descending -once more- into wage and debt slavery? Or is something entirely else and darker- going on, as Ken seems to suggest below: The currently observable rapid decline in demand for wage slaves just happens to coincide with global peak energy.
Here once more is Ken Latta
Ken Latta: Responses to the recent Charles Hall posting at the Automatic Earth, Peak Wealth and Peak Energy, parried with the idea that slaves were the original black gold that allowed society to build great wealth. Not only is that a fair statement, but what the finest historians tell us is that it was always thus. It seems that whenever a cluster of mud huts went up, taking slaves was soon placed on the to-do list.
When uncoerced human power is the highest EROEI source available, usually not much gets done beyond procuring food and making basic necessities. For such societies, peak wealth occurs when a herd of grazing animals happens by. The first rule of civilization building is: find a bunch of people you can force to do things they wouldnt otherwise be inclined to do.
In antebellum America (USA that is) there were three kinds of coerced laborers. Chattel slaves (held as real property) were the abducted Africans that made the plantation economy of the southern states possible. Something that was not well known was the practice of our colonial masters trading guns, powder and lead to the Indians to purchase captive natives for slave labor. They proved to be unwilling workers and frequently escaped back to their tribes.
Indentured servants were not property. Their coerced labor was legally imposed to work off a debt. Many of our ancestors got to the US by contracting to work for someone that would pay their fare. The main difference from chattel was that upon settlement of the debt they were free to leave.
That brings us to the thing known to wags in recent times as wage slavery. Us wrinklies may remember a bumper sticker [I cant be fired, slaves must be sold]. Wage slaves are free to come and go and quit any time. They may also be fired. When they are trying not to be fired and not ready to quit, they must pretty much do as they are told and thus coerced labor. There could be a fourth class, in that some people refer to entrepreneurial souls as the self-exploited.
Once the infrastructure to fully exploit fossil fuels was in place, the most repugnant forms of forced servitude fell out of favor. The president known as Old Hickory outlawed chattel slavery. Not necessarily because he so loved his African constituents, who were politically considered to be two-thirds of a person, but in hopes they would do what they could to hinder the Confederate war effort.
The newly self-owned citizens often ended up doing much the same work as before except as either indentured or wage slaves. Most wage slaves have progressively gotten less back breaking work to do, though not necessarily less monotonous. Some have gotten to do quite exciting and satisfying work.
They also worked up to the point of having some effective leverage in dealing with their would-be slave masters.
Wage slavery is categorically different in that its prevalence correlates with non animate sources of energy. Wage slaves have served as overseers of the energy slave economy according to the instructions of the bosses. Sadly, what this implies is that as fossil energy production declines, the demand for wage slaves also declines. We are observing it happening. The stagnation of wage earnings began at the time US oil production peaked. The currently observable rapid decline in demand for wage slaves just happens to coincide with global peak energy.
The actual rate of energy decline is accelerated by the associated trend of impoverishment of wage slaves and the growing pool of would-be wage slaves. And thus we will get to see the effect of Ugo Bardis Seneca Cliff. Named for 1st century Roman citizen Lucius Annaeus Seneca and based on this quotation:
It would be some consolation for the feebleness of our selves and our works if all things should perish as slowly as they come into being; but as it is, increases are of sluggish growth, but the way to ruin is rapid.
Lucius Anneaus Seneca, Letters to Lucilius, n. 91
Demand for energy is falling faster than production, causing even the mightiest producers to teeter on the edge of insolvency. The prediction a few years ago by petroleum geologist Jean Laherrere that the Bakken fields would be played out around 2020 appears to be on target.
The great NY Yankees catcher Yogi Berra is said to have quipped that predictions are hard, especially about the future. I agree, but sometimes you just have to throw caution to the wind.
Ugo Bardi, an estimable professor, and a whole pack of fellow academics joined by the usual crowd of entrepreneurial hustlers are pushing a pipe filled to the brim with Hopium that ruination can be avoided or mitigated by works worthy of a sorcerers apprentice.
We just have to assemble a vast armada of solar panels and wind turbines, plus a few billion tons of rechargeable batteries and turn every suitable topographic feature of the landscape into pumped storage, et voila!, energy slaves forever.
An admirable dream, but Im gonna let that bandwagon go on down the street without me. I share the opinion that boat sailed for NeverneverLand quite a long time ago. What already exists and whatever still gets built will keep some lights on for awhile, but preservation of industrial civilization seems to me unattainable.
There must be a consequence right? Yes, I think there is and nobody is gonna like what I think it will be. At some threshold level of wage slave unwagedness the perfumed princes of the shrunken protected class (pace Peggy Noonan) will regretfully determine that a return to indentured servitude is necessary for the maintenance of moral fabric (and the preservation of their class). Rumor has it, this is already emerging as a feature of the injustice system. The next obvious step would be press gangs grabbing people off the streets and in their homes (hovels?) to sell at auction or gift to a powerful enemy, etc.
Sounds too far fetched? It is approximately what happened in Nazi Germany. The unemployed were rounded up and forced to work on public works projects. Jews werent just sent to camps to be gassed, they also went to camps next to industrial facilities to work as slaves to sustain the German economy and war effort. Even Auschwitz was a slave labor camp. Famous sign over the main gate says Arbeit Macht Frei (work makes free). If it isnt already happening, something similar seems likely to emerge in the Nazi glorifying madhouse called Ukraine.
This was difficult to write. It cant have been easy to read. But, to paraphrase one of recent historys real shitheads, we must live the dark ages with the human species we have, not the one we might wish we had.
There is an ageless quip about not shooting the messenger, but who else ya gonna shoot when hes the only one standing there.
Let the 10 minutes hate begin.
By Raul Ilargi Meijer
Website: http://theautomaticearth.com (provides unique analysis of economics, finance, politics and social dynamics in the context of Complexity Theory) 2017 Copyright Raul I Meijer - All Rights Reserved Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors.
Raul Ilargi Meijer Archive
2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication.
Silver On Sale 4% Fall On Massive $2 Billion of Futures Selling
Silver fell a very sharp 85 cents from $18.40 per ounce to as low as $17.65 per ounce yesterday for a 4.25% price fall soon after the London bullion markets closed yesterday despite no market news or corresponding sharp moves in other markets.
Silver had surged 15% in the first two months and had seen ten consecutive weeks of gradual gains. It had made convincing closes above the psychological $18 an ounce level and the 200 day moving average (DMA) at 18.155 and made 3-month highs only yesterday.
Silver Prices (LBMA)
03 Mar: USD 17.66, GBP 14.44 & EUR 16.76 per ounce
02 Mar: USD 18.33, GBP 14.93 & EUR 17.42 per ounce
01 Mar: USD 18.33, GBP 14.89 & EUR 17.40 per ounce
28 Feb: USD 18.28, GBP 14.70 & EUR 17.24 per ounce
27 Feb: USD 18.34, GBP 14.77 & EUR 17.33 per ounce
24 Feb: USD 18.27, GBP 14.56 & EUR 17.23 per ounce
23 Feb: USD 18.00, GBP 14.42 & EUR 17.06 per ounce
Silver investors were gaining confidence and dealers were experiencing robust demand for silver coins and bars. Suddenly at almost exactly 1630 GMT yesterday as European markets were closing, some entity decided to dump $2 billion worth of silver contracts into the futures market in minutes. A huge 23,000 silver contracts which is the equivalent of 1.15 million ounces of silver was dumped on the market:
Source: Zero Hedge
Over 23,000 Silver futures contracts suddenly puked into the market as soon as Europe closed as noted by Zero Hedge.
Silver quickly fell over 4% and gave up much of the gains of the last month. Gold fell $14.90 or 1.2% to $1235.00.
Rate hike expectations and the risks of a rate hike on March 15 are being attributed for the sharp silver price fall.
However, one would have thought that this was already priced into the market and therefore why the sudden 4% fall in minutes yesterday. It was unusual as there was no breaking news, no bearish silver or gold related news and indeed no important news or announcements from the Federal Reserve.
Indeed, most other markets were becalmed with no major moves in most markets except for gold and silver.
GATA Chairman Bill Murphys Midas commentary at LeMetropoleCafe.com reviewed the smash in detail, as with commodity broker J.B. Slears minute-by-minute tracking of the smash as contracts were dumped on the market in great bulk starting at 11:25 a.m. for 40 minutes straight:
1,071 contracts at 11:25.
5,648 at 11:30.
2,798 at 11:35.
1,175 at 11:40.
2,815 at 11:45.
3,319 at 11:50.
1,517 at 11:55.
2,357 at 12:00.
5,861 at 12:05.
4,702 at 12:10.
Thats a total of 30,192 contracts in 40 minutes.
Banks have been found guilty of manipulating most markets in recent years including the gold and silver markets. GATA has amassed a huge amount of evidence over the years and as recently as December came new revelations of silver fixing: Silver Fixing By Banks Proven In Traders Chats
Therefore, it stands to reason to suspect that the massive sell off may again have been by a bank or a proxy hedge fund or other institutional fund manipulating the silver market either for private gain and trading profits or indeed on behalf of the official sector and central banks.
It could be a combination whereby banks realise that central banks are quietly pleased for gold and silver prices to be manipulated lower and banks can profitably manipulate markets believing that they are above the law.
Worst case scenario they get a slap on the wrist and a fine that is small in the light of their massive profits. Some poor patsy lone wolf kid trader is found to take the blame and the senior managers and executives get way with this criminal activity.
Golden Opportunity for Silver Buyers
The important point to remember here is that small retail bullion buyers and investors appear to be being defrauded by the largest players in the market massive banks with massive liquidity provided to them by central banks.
It is also important to remember that this creates an opportunity. The suppression of gold and silver prices means that precious metals remain undervalued especially versus the assets that banks and central banks favour property, stocks and especially bonds.
Silver Coins VAT Free in Ireland, UK and EU
Manipulation is an opportunity for investors as it allows them to accumulate physical gold and silver at artificially depressed prices.
The history of gold market fixing and manipulation is of short term success followed by ultimate failure and much higher prices. This was seen after the London Gold Pool failed spectacularly in the late 1960s. This was followed by gold and silvers massive bull markets in the 1970s.
The gold and silver beach balls have been pushed near the bottom of the very small precious metals pool. The lower they are pushed in the short term, the higher it will surge in the medium and long term.
Access breaking news and research here
Gold Prices (LBMA AM)
03 Mar: USD 1,228.75, GBP 1,005.12 & EUR 1,168.05 per ounce
02 Mar: USD 1,243.30, GBP 1,013.17 & EUR 1,181.14 per ounce
01 Mar: USD 1,246.05, GBP 1,007.18 & EUR 1,182.50 per ounce
28 Feb: USD 1,251.90, GBP 1,006.90 & EUR 1,180.79 per ounce
27 Feb: USD 1,256.25, GBP 1,011.16 & EUR 1,187.41 per ounce
24 Feb: USD 1,255.35, GBP 1,000.89 & EUR 1,185.18 per ounce
23 Feb: USD 1,237.35, GBP 992.97 & EUR 1,173.13 per ounce
Silver Prices (LBMA)
03 Mar: USD 17.66, GBP 14.44 & EUR 16.76 per ounce
02 Mar: USD 18.33, GBP 14.93 & EUR 17.42 per ounce
01 Mar: USD 18.33, GBP 14.89 & EUR 17.40 per ounce
28 Feb: USD 18.28, GBP 14.70 & EUR 17.24 per ounce
27 Feb: USD 18.34, GBP 14.77 & EUR 17.33 per ounce
24 Feb: USD 18.27, GBP 14.56 & EUR 17.23 per ounce
23 Feb: USD 18.00, GBP 14.42 & EUR 17.06 per ounce
Mark O'Byrne
Executive Director
This update can be found on the GoldCore blog here.
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Disclaimer: The information in this document has been obtained from sources, which we believe to be reliable. We cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. It does not constitute a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any investment. Any person acting on the information contained in this document does so at their own risk. Recommendations in this document may not be suitable for all investors. Individual circumstances should be considered before a decision to invest is taken. Investors should note the following: Past experience is not necessarily a guide to future performance. The value of investments may fall or rise against investors' interests. Income levels from investments may fluctuate. Changes in exchange rates may have an adverse effect on the value of, or income from, investments denominated in foreign currencies. GoldCore Limited, trading as GoldCore is a Multi-Agency Intermediary regulated by the Irish Financial Regulator.
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MARTINSVILLE A recent spike in flu cases has prompted Memorial Hospital to impose restrictions on visitors.
Last year, only about 140 patients seen in the emergency room and by doctors affiliated with Memorial were confirmed to have influenza. But this year, there were more than 80 laboratory-confirmed flu cases by mid-January. During the past 12 days alone, there were 74 confirmed cases, according to Debra Graem, the hospitals infection preventionist.
Information on the Virginia Department of Healths website shows flu is widespread. That means flu outbreaks or increases in lab-confirmed flu cases or incidences of influenza-like illnesses are being seen in at least half of the state.
Sharon Ortiz-Garcia, epidemiologist for the West Piedmont Health District, which operates the Henry-Martinsville Health Department, said district officials recently have observed a significant increase in influenza-like illnesses. She did not immediately have statistics, though.
Memorial imposed visitation restrictions due to high levels of both the flu and respiratory illnesses that mimic influenza, according to Elizabeth Harris, the hospitals marketing director.
The restrictions are as follows. First, children under 14 years of age are prohibited from visiting hospital facilities unless they have a medical appointment or are visiting the emergency department because they are sick.
Second, anyone with flu symptoms cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat, vomiting, extreme fatigue, muscle aches and/or diarrhea is asked not to visit patients. Third, people seeking medical care who have such symptoms are asked to request a face mask when they arrive to keep from spreading their illnesses to other patients and staff. Some hospital employees are wearing masks as a safety precaution, Harris mentioned.
Fourth, anyone at the hospital is asked to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, or sanitize their hands using an alcohol-based gel, to help avoid spreading the influenza virus.
Patrick County recently went through an outbreak of flu in the school district. Classes were canceled Feb. 9 and 10 because out of a district of more than 2,600, over 300 were out sick.
The issue isnt just a localized one. Across the border in Tennessee, one school district had to close because teachers, as well as students, were getting sick. In Knox County, officials told the Associated Press that there were so many sick teachers that the district had a hard time finding enough substitutes to cover classes. In that case, the problem involved both confirmed cases of the flue and another respiratory illness that made its way through the area.
Here at Memorial Hospital, the restrictions will be in effect until further notice, Harris said.
Signs noting the restrictions have been posted at all of the hospitals public entrances, she said.
The flu is dangerous and potentially lethal to older people as well as people with certain chronic health problems, such as weakened immune systems.
It is important to remember that the flu is preventable and there are several things we can do to protect ourselves and our loved ones from getting it, Ortiz-Garcia said.
Those things, she said, include getting a yearly flu vaccination, keeping your hands and environment clean, coughing into your elbow or your sleeve instead of into your hands or the air, staying at home if youre sick and using antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir if they are suggested by a doctor or nurse practitioner.
Anyone with questions about the flu can call the health department at 638-2311 or go online to http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/influenza-flu-in-virginia/.
COLLINSVILLEA Collinsville man will only face one of five charges at trial, as the rest were dropped Thursday in General District Court.
Jerome Allen Adams, 40, was accused of shooting into an occupied vehicle and related charges.
According to testimony and a criminal complaint, on Oct. 31, 2016, Adams allegedly arrived at a mobile home park in Bassett at a high rate of speed, jumped out of a vehicle with a gun, fired a number of times into an occupied vehicle, then left the scene.
However, Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Awbrey Watts said law enforcement had been unable to locate a witness. So Watts made a motion to nolle prosse three charges. That means all three could be reinstated pending further evidence. The dropped charges include attempted malicious wounding and two counts of using a firearm in commission of a felony. Judge Marcus Brinks granted the motion.
Judge Brinks also dismissed a charge of possessing or transporting a firearm by a convicted felon after Adams lawyer, Caitlin Reynolds of the public defenders office, raised a legal issue involving a previous conviction of Adams in Connecticut.
Judge Brinks held a preliminary hearing on the remaining charge of maliciously shooting into an occupied vehicle. After hearing testimony, Brinks ruled there was probable cause to send the case to trial. Brinks certified (or sent) that charge to Circuit Court.
HENRY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT
In another case Thursday, Judge Brinks found probable cause to believe Nicholas Eric Cahoon, 20, of Collinsville, committed grand larceny. Brinks certified (or sent) that charge to Circuit Court.
Cahoon is accused of stealing about more than $400 from Quality Inn/Dutch Inn at 2360 Virginia Avenue, Collinsville, on Jan. 1, 2017.
According to testimony and a criminal complaint, Cahoon was seen behind a locked cash register at the front desk, though he had no permission to be there, and several hours later more than $400 was discovered missing from the cash register. During a search of the room Cahoon was renting at the inn, law enforcement found a screw driver and a razor blade with red marks (the same color on the money bag that was stolen from the cash register). The empty money bag was found in a trash can near a stairwell leading to the room Cahoon was renting.
When a deputy sheriff questioned Cahoon at a different location after the larceny, Cahoon had $72 in different denominations on his person. When the deputy asked Cahoon where the rest of the money was, Cahoon said he bought a hotel room and pizza. However, Cahoon denied any knowledge of the grand larceny at Quality Inn/Dutch Inn.
Courtney Armstrong, Cahoons lawyer, made a motion to strike (or disallow) prosecutions evidence. Armstrong said the inn had no security video footage of what happened, the prosecution did not introduce any forensics evidence linking Cahoon to the crime, that other people could have had access to the cash register and the trash can where the money bag was found, and the facts that Cahoon had a screwdriver and later had $72 on his person when questioned by a deputy were not in and of themselves incriminating.
Judge Brinks denied Armstrongs motion.
In another case, Judge Brinks found probable cause to believe Richard Junior Hairston, 24, of Martinsville, committed the crimes of possession or transportation of a firearm after having been convicted of a felony and possession or transportation of ammunition for a firearm after having been convicted of a felony.
According to testimony, a niece of Hairston went to his home on July 30, 2016, because the day before he allegedly had gotten into an altercation with two other relatives and then posted something on social media. The niece alleged that on July 30, 2016, Hairston suspected she came to do something to him; however, the niece was not armed. The niece alleged that at one point Hairston went and got a rifle, but his girlfriend diffused the situation, and Hairston subsequently hugged the niece. Law enforcement allegedly found a rifle and ammunition in Hairstons home during a search.
In another case, Tyrone Rashod Davis, 22, of Ridgeway, waived his preliminary hearing on a charge of felonious embezzlement, and that charge now will go to Circuit Court.
A criminal complaint by Deputy C.L. Hairston of the Henry County Sheriffs Office said that a loss prevention employee of Sheetz at 6758 Greensboro Road, Ridgeway, alleged that Davis, an employee of the business, took a total of $2,176.33 from the store between Sept. 16 and Oct. 22, 2016. Among other things, Davis allegedly took money out of several cash registers.
Paul Collins reports for the Martinsville Bulletin and can be reached at paul.collins@martinsvillebulletin.com.
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This is the first of three stories on how information technology and innovation are transforming industries and peoples lives. The topics were discussed during a roundtable reception with the leaders of IBM, Panasonic and the Washington Corp. at the University of Montana.
The ability of computers to learn your habits and influence your behavior might sound like a bad dream of a futuristic world, one where cyborgs outsmart humans and rise to dominate the planet.
The good news is, artificial intelligence cant exist without humans making it. The bad news is if its bad news at all the technology is already here and its only going to evolve.
By Martin Kidston/Missoula Current
Full Story: http://www.missoulacurrent.com/business/2017/03/missoula-um-technology/
***
Artificial intelligence will change America. Heres how. http://www.matr.net/article-75762.html
Microsoft CEO says artificial intelligence is the ultimate breakthrough http://www.matr.net/article-75610.html
Googles Brin surprised by speed of AI advances http://www.matr.net/article-75262.html
More articles about AI: http://www.matr.net/news.phtml?showall=1&catlabel=Artificial+Intelligence+and+The+Internet+of+Things&cat_id=194
Gov. Steve Bullock says he believes the Montana Board of Regents would have to at least consider closing a state campus to make up for the $23.3 million budget cut proposed in the current Legislature.
By Gail Schontzler Chronicle Staff Writer
Full Story: http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/news/montana_state_university/bullock-raises-possibility-of-closing-state-campus/article_7cc39c51-fafa-5013-86df-d37e12bf5b1e.html
Successfully landing a new job is a matter of using the right techniques combined with a good attitude. One without the other affects your job search prospects more than you might realize. A good attitude is hard to beat and hiring managers can sense when candidates have one.
By Kim Thompson
Full Story: http://blog.sfgate.com/gettowork/2017/03/02/find-a-new-job-faster-by-changing-your-attitude/
A California high school has made millions of dollars from the initial public offering of shares in Snap Inc., the company behind the Snapchat photo messaging application.
The board of the Saint Francis high school http://www.sfhs.com/ in Mountain View agreed to invest $15,000 in seed money in Snap in 2012, when the company was just getting started.
Full Story: http://www.sfgate.com/business/technology/article/California-high-school-makes-24-million-from-10974091.php
Wyoming officials say they hope more online businesses will begin to pay sales taxes voluntarily but a bill signed Wednesday by Gov. Matt Mead lays the groundwork to collect from those that refuse.
Wednesday also was the day that online retail giant Amazon promised it would begin voluntarily collecting taxes on sales in Wyoming. But most online businesses still dont pay, to the disadvantage of shops on Main Street and others with a physical presence in the state.
"Were a state made of relatively small towns. We want to make sure those towns continue to thrive and do well," said Mead.
MEAD GRUVER Associated Press
Full Story: http://trib.com/business/wyoming-puts-teeth-in-collecting-online-sales-taxes/article_d5dc7301-959b-5895-9521-b7e2d0c2c70e.html
About 20 states have tax incentives designed to attract data centers and five states dont have sales tax. The exemption would help Idahoattract data centers and additional investment in technology, said Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, chief operating officer at the Idaho Department of Commerce.
A new tax incentive designed to help data centers offset the cost of replacing equipment could help Idaho attract large companies such as Google and Amazon, according to the Idaho Department of Commerce.
The department proposed a bill to the House Revenue and Taxation Committee March 2 to grant a sales and use tax rebate to data centers that invest at least $25 million in capital investments within a five-year period and create 20 jobs within a two-year period. Additional rebates would then be given for equipment purchases worth at least $5 million.
By: Benton Alexander Smith
Full Story: http://idahobusinessreview.com/2017/03/03/state-data-centers-are-bypassing-idaho-in-search-of-tax-breaks/
Enrollment of full time students at the University of Montana fell 5.45 percent from spring 2016 to spring 2017, and the head count fell 2.8 percent but the drop wasnt as steep as UM officials anticipated.
The head count this spring is 11,615 compared to 11,955 one year ago, and UM President Sheila Stearns said Thursday she had thought the head count might fall closer to 11,000. The count includes Missoula College.
"The fact that its coming in at 11,600 is a bit of lemonade to me," Stearns said. "Its not lemon. Thats a fact."
KEILA SZPALLER [email protected]
Full Story: http://helenair.com/news/state-and-regional/university-of-montana-enrollment-drops-but-officials-optimistic/article_1bd25731-0e22-597f-a0f6-b9e8d68db81d.html
Les membres du Cabinet ont pris note de Plan de Soutien pour les entreprises mauriciennes, des amendements aux Catering and Tourism Industries (Remuneration) Regulations 2019, Private Hospitals and Other Related Health Services (Remuneration) Regulations 2019, des instruction donner a lAttoreny General aoffice pour lecriture dun Sports and Physical Activity Bill entre autres.
1. Cabinet has agreed to a Plan de Soutien to give the necessary support to economic operators across all sectors of activities, including local manufacturing and SMEs so as to minimise the adverse impact of COVID-19. At the macroeconomic and cross-sectoral level, the following measures would be taken:
(a) the State Investment Corporation (SIC) Ltd would launch an Equity Participation Scheme to assist enterprises to overcome their financial difficulties in the wake of COVID-19;
(b) schemes under the Investment Support Programme Ltd and SME Equity Fund Ltd would be reviewed;
(c) a Revolving Credit Fund of Rs 200 million would be established at the Development Bank of Mauritius Ltd to help companies with turnover of up to Rs 10 million to ease their cash flow difficulties up to 31 December 2020;
(d) enterprises being affected by COVID-19 would be entitled to a double tax deduction on their investment in Plant and Machinery for the period
1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020;
(e) all work permits that would expire this year would be extended automatically up to 31 December 2021;
(f) to minimise human contacts, Government would give full support to promote the Work at Home Scheme that was announced in the 2018-2019 Budget Speech; and
(g) an e-Government Digital Bureau would be set up to fast track the provision of public services through electronic means.
At the sectoral level, the following measures would be taken:
(i) the Passenger Fee on Air Ticket would be suspended for tourists from
Reunion Island, Australia and South Africa up to 31 July 2020;
(ii) the Environment Protection Fee of 0.85% charged on the monthly turnover of hotels, guest houses and tourist residences would be suspended up to 31 July 2020;
(iii) the training levy would be reduced from 1% to 0.5% for operators in the tourism sector as from 1 April 2020 up to 31 July 2020;
(iv) Air Mauritius Ltd would pursue its promotional fare strategy to attract tourists from Reunion Island, UK, South Africa and Australia. Fares for travel from and to Reunion Island would be reduced by 50% while for the other destinations the reduction would be 40%. These reductions would be applicable up to 31 July 2020;
(v) hotels would provide a discount ranging from 15% to 35% for tourists from Australia, Reunion Island and South Africa;
(vi) port charges imposed by the Mauritius Ports Authority and Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd would be waived for all exports up to
31 December 2020;
(vii) the Freight Rebate Scheme would be extended for exports to South Africa and Tamatave up to 31 December 2020;
(viii) the Speed to Market Scheme would be extended for exports of the manufacturing sector to Africa, Japan, Australia, Canada and the Middle East up to
31 December 2020;
(ix) to boost local production of food crops and ensure greater food security for the population, sugar estates would be requested to also put at the disposal of small planters additional rotational land for the cultivation of crops like potato, onion, pulses and other vegetables;
(x) seeds for the cultivation of potato, garlic, bean and onion would be provided through the Seed Purchase Scheme. In addition, the Agricultural Marketing Board would purchase at a guaranteed price, products such as potato, garlic and onion on a long term basis;
(xi) an amount of Rs100 million has been earmarked to encourage local production of food crops; and
(xii) funds to the tune of Rs208 million are being made available to the Ministry of Health and Wellness for the acquisition of new medical accessories and equipment, of which Rs108 million have already been disbursed.
A number of actions has already been initiated, namely:
(a) the Agricultural Marketing Board has taken precautionary measures to increase significantly its Strategic Buffer Stock in potato, onion and garlic;
(b) five new schemes are being launched by SME Mauritius Ltd, namely, the Internal Capability Development Scheme, the Technology and Innovation Scheme, the SME Marketing Support Scheme, the Inclusiveness and Integration Scheme, and the SME Utility Connection Assistance Scheme.
An Implementation and Monitoring Committee under the chair of Mr Dev Manraj, GOSK, Financial Secretary, and comprising representatives of both the public and private sector has been set up.
2. Cabinet has agreed to:
(a) amendments being made to the Catering and Tourism Industries (Remuneration) Regulations 2019 and the Private Hospitals and Other Related Health Services (Remuneration) Regulations 2019; and
(b) a new Regulation being made to cater for payment of wages to employees, if ever they are placed in quarantine in respect of COVID-19 outbreak.
The Catering and Tourism Industries (Remuneration) Regulation 2019 would be amended to provide for:
(i) time off to be granted to workers of that industry in lieu of payment of overtime during the period of the outbreak; and
(ii) a worker to resume work, with his consent, before a lapse of eleven hours after having completed a normal days work.
The Private Hospitals and Other Related Health Services (Remuneration) Regulations 2019 would be amended to provide that a worker might, with his consent, work up to 12 hours a day instead of 8 hours. New Regulations would be made to provide for payment of wages to workers, who are placed in quarantine, to be offset against their leave entitlement.
3. Cabinet has agreed to instructions being conveyed to the Attorney Generals Office for the drafting of a Sports and Physical Activity Bill and to repeal the existing Sports Act 2016. The Sports and Physical Activity Bill would, inter alia,:
(a) provide for the setting up of a Registrar of Sports Organisations to facilitate the registration of Sports Clubs, National Sports Federations and other Sports Delivery Organisations;
(b) provide for the setting up of a Sports Profession and Educators Council;
(c) review the concept of sports regionalisation as a whole;
(d) address the professionalisation of sports in the Republic;
(e) safeguard the interests of athletes and protect them from any form of abuse;
(f) regulate the sale of tickets during sporting events and deter the emergence of
black markets; and
(g) regulate the bidding and hosting of international sporting events in the Republic;
Consultations would be held with relevant stakeholders.
4. Cabinet has taken note that the Ministry of Health and Wellness would increase the financial assistance under the Overseas Treatment Scheme, from Rs800,000 to Rs1 million, as announced in the Budget Speech 2019-2020. The Scheme would cover all medical expenses for a patient travelling overseas for medical treatment, including cost of airfare and other services.
5. Cabinet has agreed to Mauritius adhering to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Joint Ministerial Statement on Investment Facilitation for Development. The purpose of the Joint Ministerial Statement is to reaffirm the need to intensify work among WTO Member States with a view to developing a WTO Framework on Investment Facilitation by the next WTO Ministerial Conference to be held in June 2020, in Kazakhstan.
6. Cabinet has taken note that the Ministry of Health and Wellness would sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Mr Shashichandra Desai, proxy of late Dr (Mrs) Hansa Gunesee for the donation of Rs25 million for the purchase of equipment for the New Cancer Hospital. Late Dr (Mrs) H. Gunesee was the first lady Gynaecologist employed in Mauritius and the first lady doctor to go on a tour of service to Rodrigues in 1969. The contribution would help in the successful implementation of the new Cancer Hospital project and ultimately in the improvement of diagnosis and treatment of cancer in Mauritius.
7. Cabinet has taken note that the 5th Trade Policy Review of Mauritius would be held at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Secretariat on 27 and 29 April 2021. The purpose of the Trade Policy Review Mechanism is to contribute towards the improved adherence, by all Members, to rules, disciplines and commitments made under the various WTO agreements. The fifth Trade Policy Review of Mauritius would be based on the reports by Government and the WTO Secretariat.
8. Cabinet has taken note of the setting up of an Organising Committee at the level of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Recreation for the 12th edition of the Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de lOcean Indien (CJSOI) Games to be held in Mauritius in July 2021. Six Member States, namely Madagascar, Mayotte, Seychelles, Reunion Island, Djibouti, and Union of Comoros have already confirmed their participation to the Games.
9. Cabinet has taken note of the outcome of the 34th Council of Ministers of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) held recently in the Seychelles. The main decisions taken at the Meeting were:
(a) the adoption of the Moroni Declaration which defines the new strategic orientation of the IOC and highlights the needs for institutional reforms to respond to new challenges and exigencies of the new business environment;
(b) approval of the Accord de Victoria Revise which, inter alia, provides for the holding of a Summit every five years to be chaired by the host country, the creation of the post of Deputy Secretary-General and the extension of the duration of the term of office of the Secretary-General to five years instead of four years;
(c) the grant of Observer Status to India, Japan and the United Nations;
(d) the signing of an agreement with the International Organisation for Migration for the setting up of a platform on Dialogue sur les Migrations au sein de lespace de la COI;
(e) the approval of the Emergency plan proposed by the Secretariat in the context of COVID-19, which includes exchange of information among the health authorities of Member States on the status of Coronavirus;
(f) the approval for the setting up of an Agence Regionale de la Biodiversite and for the holding of a Ministerial Conference on biodiversity; and
(g) the approval of the appointment of Mr Velayoudon Marimoutou, as the new Secretary-General of the IOC.
10. Cabinet has taken note that Mrs Jenny Mootealloo has been appointed as Commissioner of the Utility Regulatory Authority for a period of five years and
Mr Sadatmanund Narain has been reappointed as Commissioner for a period of five years.
11. Cabinet has taken note of the reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the Mauritius Multisports Infrastructure Ltd with Mr Jean Pierre Sauzier as Chairperson.
12. Cabinet has taken note of the reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the Civil Service College, Mauritius, with Mr Harry Ganoo, GOSK, as Chairperson.
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Even as the stock market touches new all-time highs, signs are emerging that the Trump administration will soon move to overturn several environmental regulations. Most of them, such as the Clean Power Plan, are a legacy of the Trump era. Eliminating such restrictions would be in keeping with the President elects promises to revive the coal industry.
With coal prices surging immediately after the election, the optimism in the sector is more than palpable. Given the Presidents recent orders on the oil and gas sector, similar decisions on coal and conventional power should be expected soon. Investing in stocks poised to gain from these decisions may be a smart option at this point.
Repealing the Clean Power Plan
On the campaign trail, Trump promised to reverse Obamas clean energy proposals. The President incumbent had also promised to roll back the investment tax credit for solar power and the Environmental Protection Agencys Clean Power Plan.
The Clean Power Plan is the Obama administrations key environmental reform and mandates states to slash their carbon dioxide emissions. However, its actual implementation remains incomplete due to the legal obstacles put in its path by Republican dominated states.
Experts believe that Trump will ask the EPA to request courts to return it the agency for a review. In one stroke, this will end any attempts to defend the plan legally. In Dec 2016, Dynegy Inc.s DYN CEO Robert Flexon had said that the removal of subsidies for alternative energy sources would provide a level playing field for conventional power producers.
Coal fired plants would stand to gain the most, though this may not result in fresh capacity additions. Instead, existing coal fired plants would then be in a position to snatch market share away from nuclear and natural gas based power producers.
Coal Prices Surge, Mining to Benefit
As a result, Flexon added, such a stance on power would be especially beneficial for the coal mining sector as well. The capacity factor for coal would rise and miners would have to step up production to meet the increased demand from power plants. In fact, compared to the elimination of the Clean Power Plan, it would be easier for Trump to remove the Obama administrations ban on coal mining. In Jan 2016, the previous government had placed a temporary ban on fresh federal coal leases in order to ensure that lease deals accounted for coals impact on climate change.
Story continues
Naturally, such a step had been extremely unpopular among lawmakers from states in the West as well as the mining industry. But the situation has changed vastly ever since Trump won the election. Following his victory, coal was trading at $110 per metric ton (MT), nearly twice as much as its price in the first quarter of 2016. Despite a slight decline, coal was trading at $83.50 per MT on Feb. 28, 2017, which is still substantially higher.
Immediately after assuming office, Trump brought to an end several environment related regulations which hark back to the Obama era. This includes the Stream Protection Rule which placed limits on the dumping of waste generated from coal mining. Additionally, Trump has also repealed the Waters of the U.S. rule which had broadened the number of waterways eligible for federal protection.
Our Choices
The rally in coal prices and the optimism among producers of conventional energy is conclusive evidence that the Trump administration has infused new vigor into these sectors. Even skeptics have been forced to admit that a mood of cautious optimism now exists, a sharp contrast to the gloom that had set in over the Obama years.
This is why it makes sense to pick stocks poised to gain from the new administrations coal related actions. We have narrowed down our search to the following stocks based on a good Zacks Rank and other relevant metrics.
Arch Coal, Inc. ARCH is engaged in the mining, processing and marketing of low-sulfur bituminous coal.
Arch Coal has expected earnings growth of more than 100% for the current year. Its earnings estimate for the current year has improved by 50.7% over the last 30 days. The stock has returned 18122% over the last one year, easily outperforming the Zacks Coal sector, which has gained 129.1% over the same period. The stock has a Zacks Rank #1. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
CONSOL Energy Inc. CNX is a multi-fuel energy producer and an energy services provider, primarily catering to the U.S. power producers. The principal activities of its PA Mining Operations division are mining, preparation and marketing of thermal coal, sold primarily to power generators.
CONSOL Energy has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Its expected earnings growth for the current year is more than 100%. Its earnings estimate for the current year has improved by 96.4% over the last 30 days. The stock has returned 55.8% over the last one year, underperforming the Zacks Coal sector, which has gained 116.7% over the same period. This provides a good opportunity to buy the stock given that there is significant upside potential
Ameren Corporation AEE is a utility company, which generates and distributes electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, industrial and wholesale end markets in Missouri and Illinois. Ameren generates a considerable share of electricity from coal-fired facilities.
Ameren has a Zacks Rank #2. The company has expected earnings growth of 3.5% for the current year. Its earnings estimate for the current year has improved by 0.1% over the last 30 days. The stock has returned 16.5% over the last one year, outperforming the Zacks Utility - Electric Power sector, which has gained 4.9% over the same period.
Pinnacle West Capital Corporation PNW provides electricity services (wholesale or retail) in the state of Arizona through its subsidiaries. As of Sep 30, 2016 coal is projected to constitute 27% of the generation mix in 2017
Pinnacle West Capital has a Zacks Rank #2. The company has expected earnings growth of 7.6% for the current year. The stock has returned 20.3% over the last one year, outperforming the Zacks Utility - Electric Power sector, which has gained 4.9% over the same period.
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By Nia Williams
CALGARY, Alberta, March 2 (Reuters) - The government of Canada's main crude-producing province Alberta plans to wade into the looming court battle over Kinder Morgan's Trans Mountain pipeline expansion by seeking intervener status on legal challenges to the project.
The move, flagged by the government in a speech reopening the Alberta legislature's spring session, comes as the Federal Court of Appeal tries to consolidate the lawsuits against the project into one. Eleven groups are suing to block the project because of environmental concerns.
Getting new crude oil pipelines built is a priority for the Alberta government, which wants to secure new markets for its oil sands output after a bruising two-year slump in crude prices.
Without new pipelines, energy industry supporters say, oil sands production will get bottlenecked in Alberta, driving the discount on Canadian barrels deeper and costing producers and the government billions of dollars in lost revenue.
"Your government will defend our province and its key industry in court, seeking intervener status on legal challenges to the Trans Mountain pipeline," Lois Mitchell, the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta said in the so-called 'Throne Speech'.
Lawyers in Calgary said it would not be out of place for the provincial governments to seek intervener status on the lawsuits.
In November the Canadian government approved Kinder Morgan's plan to nearly triple its crude oil pipeline from Alberta to Burnaby, British Columbia, to 890,000 barrels per day despite fierce environmental, municipal and aboriginal opposition.
The green light from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet came after a National Energy Board review process that critics said fell short.
So far 11 separate parties, including the City of Vancouver and the Tsleil-Waututh First Nation have filed lawsuits challenging the cabinet decision, the NEB review, or both.
Dyna Tuytel, a lawyer for Ecojustice representing the Living Oceans Society and Raincoast Conservation Foundation in their lawsuit, said the court was currently taking submissions on the draft order setting out the logistics of the consolidation.
Story continues
"It means that everyone will get less court time but it makes sense," Tuytel said. "There's a degree of overlap in the facts if nothing else."
The Federal Court of Appeal also consolidated legal challenges to Enbridge Inc's Northern Gateway pipeline in 2015, which resulted in the court overturning government approval for that project.
(Reporting by Nia Williams; Editing by David Gregorio)
The world is fast shifting to alternative energy and this is spurring demand for solar panels.
E-commerce giant Amazon.com Inc. AMZN is gearing up for its next project associated with renewable energy initiatives. This time, the firm will harness solar energy by installing solar panels on the roof of its fulfillment facilities across the world.
Coming to the price performance, over the past one year, shares of Amazon outperformed the Zacks categorized Electronic Commerce industry. While the industry gained 39.53%, the stock returned 45.91%.
Details
As part of its commitment to advance green power, Amazon has plans of deploying large-scale solar systems on rooftops of more than 15 fulfillment and sortation centers in the U.S. this year. By 2020, around 50 data centers are expected to use solar energy to meet their power needs.
Amazon said that these solar panels could generate up to 80% of the annual energy requirements of a fulfillment center depending on the project, time of year and other factors. The company already has a network of wind and solar farms in Indiana, North Carolina, Ohio and Virginia. Its largest wind farm is in Texas.
Amazons senior vice president of Worldwide Operations, Dave Clark, said As our fulfillment network continues to expand, we want to help generate more renewable energy at both existing and new facilities around the world in partnership with community and business leaders."
Focus on Carbon Neutrality
This initiative by Amazon is the latest in a string of clean energy investments made by U.S. technology giants in recent months. For quite some time, Amazon has been moving away from fossil fuels and focusing more on clean energy. It aims at reducing its carbon footprint and using more renewable energy to power its huge data centers. Moreover, the company can generate healthy returns from these solar and wind investments as there are many associated tax incentives.
Infact many corporate behemoths including Google GOOGL, Facebook FB and Apple AAPL are progressively moving toward alternative energy sources to lower their overall carbon emissions and cut their energy bills substantially.
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Also, several countries are increasingly relying on solar power to generate clean energy. Stringent environmental legislations on greenhouse gas emissions have also proved to be a boon for the solar power sector. Moreover, despite high initial investments, low operational costs and no fuel costs make these solar investments attractive.
Amazon.com, Inc. Price and Consensus
Amazon.com, Inc. Price and Consensus | Amazon.com, Inc. Quote
At present, Amazon has a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell).
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If a trip to Rome or Paris is in your future, be prepared: The European Union Parliament is calling for an end to visa-free travel for Americans.
EU lawmakers passed a nonbinding resolution urging the EU Commission to impose visas on U.S. citizens traveling into the 28-nation bloc.
The dispute centers on reciprocal treatment of travelers from EU nations and the United States. While Americans have been able to travel throughout EU member nations without a visa, the U.S. still requires citizens of five EU countries Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Poland and Romania to apply for entry visas when visiting the U.S., Reuters reports. Citizens of the other 23 EU member nations can use the U.S. visa waiver program to enter America.
The EU lawmakers are calling for equal treatment for all EU citizens, says Reuters. Theyve given the EU Commission two months to respond.
The trans-Atlantic visa dispute first came to light in April 2014, according to an EU Parliament news release. At that time, five countries Australia, Brunei, Canada, Japan and the U.S. required visas for some EU citizens.
Since then, Australia, Brunei and Japan have lifted their visa requirements for all EU citizens. Canada, which currently imposes visa requirements on Bulgarian and Romanian citizens, plans to follow suit in December, leaving just the United States at odds with the issue of reciprocity of visa-free travel with the EU.
The EU says if a visa requirement for Americans is introduced, it would be temporary, according to a story in Money, which did not give a time frame.
Do you have a vacation planned? No matter where youre planning on going, here are 14 Super Smart Ways to Save on Travel.
Do you owe back taxes to Uncle Sam? Youd better check, because Your Passport Might Be Revoked.
What do you think about the EUs retaliatory visa move? Share your thoughts below or on Facebook.
This article was originally published on MoneyTalksNews.com as 'Americans May Soon Need a Visa for Travel to Europe'.
More from Money Talks News
by Gavin O'Malley , Staff Writer @mp_gavin, March 2, 2017
In some respects, the mobile boom is officially over in the States. Indeed, Adobes latest global mobile report found double-digit declines in both app installs (38%) and launches (28%) over the past two years.
As such, the new mission for marketers is maximizing engagement, and finding other ways to get more out of existing customers.
Whats more, brands have a large mobile audience but need [to] focus on retention, an Adobe spokeswoman said on Monday.
Adobes report is comprised of data from 1.7 trillion mobile Web site visits and 130 billion app launches, over the span of two years.
With domestic Web traffic plateauing, marketers are also looking overseas. The massive smartphone growth in China, India and Brazil is responsible for driving over 400 million new people online, according to Adobe.
Yet while less developed nations are growing like weeds, their infrastructure is struggling to keep up with demand.
Stateside, the report also found that Googles Accelerated Mobile Pages is being increasingly welcomed by consumers. In fact, it now accounts for 7% of all traffic for top U.S. publishers, which represents 405% growth over 2016 levels.
This column was previously published in Moblog on February 27, 2017.
by Sara Guaglione , March 2, 2017
Emmis Communications Corporation has soldmagazine to Hour Media Group LLC, as well asmagazines.reports that all four magazines were sold for $6.5 million.
Sources told LA Weekly that as a result of the change in ownership, Los Angeles Editor in Chief Mary Melton, Editor at Large Amy Wallace, Publisher Erika Anderson, head of digital strategy Audie Metcalf Ruyle and Copy Chief Daphne Tanyol are out.
Los Angeles did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and Publishers Daily could only confirm that Melton and Wallace were leaving the magazine.
Melton tweeted, "After a 16+ year run, seven of those as editor in chief, this is my last day with @LAmag." Wallace tweeted "Today will be my last at @LAmag."
Hour Media CEO Stefan Wanczyk told The Los Angeles Times: Of the 140 employees of the four Emmis titles, we did not offer employment to eight of the employees."
He added that Hour Media would replace the editors in the near future.
Emmis announced last August it would put several of its magazines up for sale to focus on core radio properties, including Power106 FM in Los Angeles. It sold one of its titles, Texas Monthly, to the Hobby family for $25 million last fall.
It is always difficult to make a decision to sell, but this step helps us to continue to address our debt leverage and to focus on our growth initiatives, Emmis chairman and CEO Jeff Smulyan stated
Emmis has now divested all of its publishing assets except for its hometown Indianapolis Monthly, which it intends to keep.
Hour Media Group acquired the Palm Beach Media Group in January, which includes Palm Beach Illustrated and Naples Illustrated.
Hour Media now publishes more than 70 magazines and custom titles.
Adweek, Friday, March 3, 2017 9 AM
IBM is highlighting the more artistic side of its AI capabilities while honoring one of Spains most famous architects. For the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, IBM asked Watson super computer to comprehend Antoni Gaudis greatest works, such as La Pedrera, to create a unique sculpture for the annual trade show.
IBM also tracked conversations related to topics including robotics, big data, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things and analyzed emotions such as joy and openness.
Read the whole story at Adweek
by Karlene Lukovitz @KLmarketdaily, March 3, 2017
In its latest music-focused engagement effort, M&Ms is inviting fans to create their own music beats for a chance to have their work featured in an upcoming TV ad.
At bitesizebeats.com, fans can use a graphic interface featuring the M&Ms candies mascots to combine premixed beats, effects, melodies and voices; share them on the brands Facebook and Twitter pages (using #bitesizebeat), and listen to others creations.
Top consumer beats saved on the site will be featured in upcoming M&M's commercials or the brands social media channels.
The user-generated content promotion is another example of how were continuing to find innovative ways to connect with M&Ms fans around music, said brand director Tanya Berman.
The Mars Chocolate North America brand is using social media, a 15-second promotional video (below) and PR to get the word out.
Because stem cells have the ability to transform into many different types of cells during the bodys early development, embryonic stem cell research offers unique insights into how an organism grows from a single cell. For the first time, scientists have now been able to create a mouse embryo entirely artificially.
Share on Pinterest Researchers have modeled a mouse embryo, here shown at 72 hours, using exclusively stem cells.
Image credit: Berna Sozen-Kaya, Zernicka-Goetz Laboratory, University of Cambridge
Stem cells are crucial for the development of living organisms. At the very beginnings of an embryo, these cells will form the entire organism, including the cells that form the bodys vital organs and tissues, such as the heart, lungs, and skin.
During its first 3 to 5 days, the human or mammalian embryo is called a blastocyst. The blastocyst is made up of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) that are generated by the egg after it has been fertilized by a sperm.
The blastocyst also contains trophoblast stem cells (TSCs), which will create the placenta, and primitive endoderm stem cells that will form the yolk sac a membranous sac that provides nutrients to the developing embryo and forms before the placenta.
A new study shows further evidence for the view that spending too much time sitting down is bad for our health and our waistline.
Research led by Dr William Tigbe, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick found workers who have a desk-bound job have bigger waists and increased risk of heart disease. It supports advice to sit less and be more active; as much as seven hours a day on your feet, and walking seven miles, may be needed to avoid heart disease.
Dr Tigbe kitted out 111 healthy Glaswegian postal workers with activity monitors for seven days; 55 were office workers and 56 delivered post for a living. The study revealed differences between the two groups. Those who had desk jobs had a bigger waist circumference - 97 cm compared to 94 cm - and approximately one BMI unit difference. They also had a higher risk of cardiovascular disease - 2.2% compared to 1.6% over ten years.
The new study suggests that waist circumference increases by two centimetres, and risk of cardiovascular diseases by 0.2%, for every additional hour of sitting on top of five hours.
Furthermore, bad cholesterol (LDL) increases and good cholesterol (HDL) decreases with each additional hour of sitting from five hours a day.
Dr Tigbe said: "Longer time spent in sedentary posture is significantly associated with larger waist circumference, higher triglycerides (fat in the blood) and lower HDL cholesterol, all adding up to worse risk of heart disease. The levels associated with zero risk factors were walking more than 15,000 steps per day, which is equivalent to walking seven to eight miles, or spending seven hours per day upright.
"Our findings could be used as the basis of new public health targets for sitting, lying, standing and stepping to avoid metabolic risks.
"However the levels suggested in our research would be very challenging to achieve unless incorporated into people's occupations."
The study participants wore a tiny physical activity and position monitor called activPAL, invented by co-authors from Glasgow Caledonian University, strapped to their thigh for seven days, except during activities that risk it being in contact with water, e.g. bathing or swimming. They also had their weight, height and blood pressure measured, and provided blood samples. Cardiovascular risks were assessed using the PROCAM risk calculator which takes into account age, sex, family history, blood pressure and metabolic measures.
The study took place between took place between September 2006 and September 2007 and volunteers were recruited from the Royal Mail in Glasgow. Only apparently healthy, non-smokers, with no personal history of myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, coronary heart disease, hypertension or diabetes were included. None of the participants was on any lipid, blood pressure or glucose lowering medication.
Fellow researcher Professor Mike Lean of the University of Glasgow's School of Medicine said: "In this research we have learned important information, relevant to health in modern working lives, by studying the activity patterns of postal workers, one of the last physically active occupations left in UK."
"Our evolution, to become the human species, did not equip us well to spending all day sitting down. We probably adapted to be healthiest spending seven to eight hours every day on our feet, as hunters or gatherers. "
"Our new research supports that idea. The 'bottom' line is that if you want to be sure of having no risks of heart disease, you must keep off your bottom!"
The researchers urge further study of this topic is conducted in order to inform health policy makers.
The research was part of Dr Tigbe's PhD project.
Between 3 and 5% of the population suffer from a form of inflammatory rheumatism. It affects approximately 250,000 - 400,000 people in Austria. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the commonest and also the most dangerous forms of this inflammatory rheumatic disease. Around 30% of patients achieve remission, that is to say successful control of symptoms, after just one or two years. However, despite frequent changes in treatment, many other patients have to endure the active form of the disease on an ongoing basis. A multicentre, multinational study headed up by rheumatologist Daniel Aletaha of MedUni Vienna as principal investigator has now shown that a new drug (sirukumab) is a very promising treatment option for these "refractory" patients. The study has now been published in the world-leading journal The Lancet.
Nowadays, treatments for rheumatoid arthritis are changed very quickly, once it is established that one is failing to effect any significant improvement. This means that many patients can be helped very quickly. On the other hand, there are patients who do not show any significant improvement even after the second or third biologic drug treatment - typically with TNF inhibitors (which blockade the Tumour Necrosis Factor TNF, which is involved in systemic inflammation). The new drug now offers a new option for such patients.
This is the result of one of the largest multicentre, international studies so far into difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis, focussing on this new mechanism of action, an interleukin-6 cytokine blockade. In this treatment, the monoclonal antibody sirukumab directly inhibits the messenger substance IL-6, which, like TNF, is responsible for inflammatory processes in the joints.
"We were able to demonstrate this in one of the largest study populations to date, with around 900 patients in 35 countries. Despite having previously received treatments with biologic drugs, these patients still had a persistently active disease. Treatment options had been practically exhausted for many of these patients. However, even in this group of patients, treatment with sirukumab brought about a significant reduction in the inflammatory action of the disease," explains Daniel Aletaha of MedUni Vienna's Department of Medicine III (Division of Rheumatology, Head: Josef Smolen).
The efficacy and safety of sirukumab were tested in two different dosages (injections of 50 mg every 4 weeks or 100 mg every 2 weeks). The 100 mg dosage proved to be slightly more effective. "These results are very significant in the case of a progressive, inflammatory, musculoskeletal disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, especially for those patients who are resistant to treatment," says the MedUni Vienna expert. The drug could be approved very soon.
At the same time, the new findings with sirukumab could lead to new efficacy studies being instigated for other inflammatory diseases, such as other forms of arthritis or other inflammatory diseases, e.g. vasculitis. There may also be other indications in areas other than rheumatology.
In a study published in Nature Genetics, Dr Saumya Jamuar, co-founder of Global Gene Corp and a visiting scientist at Harvard Medical School, under the supervision of Prof Christopher Walsh and A/Prof Timothy Yu of Harvard Medical School, reports on a new disease entity that they discovered in their quest to map novel human disorders related to brain development.
The new syndrome, referred to as 'Developmental Split-Brain syndrome' is caused by biallelic mutations in the human Deleted in Colorectal Carcinoma (DCC) gene. It can lead to symptoms including intellectual disability, horizontal gaze palsy, mirror movements and scoliosis. This disorder affects individuals soon after birth (and in case 3, even during pregnancy) although the clinical features may not be obvious until an older age.
The hallmark feature of this syndrome is the distinct pattern on brain imaging, and includes agenesis of corpus callosum, absent anterior and hippocampal commissures and ventral midline brain malformations.
Although, this condition is rare, the phenomenon of split brain has been intensely studied with implications on brain organization. There are also explicit connections between split brains and neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and Asperger syndrome. The findings may also have implications in improving our understanding of common disorders such as scoliosis and strabismus.
The discovery is as a result of an international collaborative effort to study the DCC gene in three families from different regions of the globe (Mexico, USA and Saudi Arabia) who remarkably shared similar clinical and radiological features. On detailed neuroimaging, the team discovered that the central defect was lack of connection between the right and left side of the brain (technical term: disruption of midline commissural tracts).
"This work highlights the need for international collaborative work by building networks and integrating deep clinical and radiological information into research." says Dr Jamuar. "After working on family 1, we reached out to our collaborators and were struck by the similarity between the images of family 1 and family 2. That's when we realized that we had found a novel disease entity. The imaging, plus other findings in our patients, demonstrates that the left and right halves of the brain lack the structures necessary to talk to one another - effectively splitting it into two separate halves."
"It was really exciting when we saw the mutation in DCC - a reunion with an old scientific friend," says Yu, who studied the gene in roundworms as a graduate student in the 1990s. "At a symposium nearly 20 years ago, I had to explain to an audience full of parents and pediatricians how this really elementary work might relate to their children and patients with autism and ADHD. I talked about how one day we may find that the fundamental mechanisms controlling the wiring of neural circuitry could be disrupted in human neurodevelopmental disorders, too - but it was all theoretical. Finding the complete knockout now feels like it completes the circle."
The researchers will continue to search for more such patients who may have aberrations along the same genetic pathway, and hope that their findings will help improve the understanding of how the brain develops.
Trump suit
The Trump campaign's national-security policy representative for the Republican National Convention, J.D. Gordon, told CNN on Thursday that he pushed to alter an amendment to the GOP's draft policy on Ukraine at the Republican National Convention last year to further align it with President Donald Trump's views.
Gordon's remarks represent a dramatic shift from previous comments, and they come as Attorney General Jeff Sessions faces intense scrutiny over two previously undisclosed meetings with Russia's ambassador to the US one of which was timed to the convention.
In January, Gordon told Business Insider that he "never left" his "assigned side table" nor spoke publicly at the GOP national security subcommittee meeting, where the amendment which originally called for "providing lethal defense weapons" to the Ukrainian army to fend off Russian-backed separatists was read aloud, debated, and ultimately watered down to "providing appropriate assistance" to Ukraine.
According to CNN's Jim Acosta, however, Gordon said that at the RNC he and others "advocated for the GOP platform to include language against arming Ukrainians against pro-Russian rebels" because "this was in line with Trump's views, expressed at a March national security meeting at the unfinished Trump hotel" in Washington, DC.
"Gordon says Trump said at the meeting ... that he didn't want to go to 'World War Three' over Ukraine," Acosta said.
Trump's apparent involvement in steering the language change Gordon reportedly told CNN that "this was the language Donald Trump himself wanted and advocated for back in March [2016]" is also at odds with what Gordon told Business Insider in January, when he said "neither Mr. Trump nor Mr. Manafort were involved in those sort of details, as they've made clear."
JD Gordon
When asked why he told Acosta that Trump did weigh in on the subject, when he told BI in January that neither Trump nor Manafort were involved, Gordon emphasized that he had told BI that Trump was not involved "in the details" of the platform.
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"Meaning they weren't part of the process to write, draft, edit the document, or weigh in with the delegates at all," Gordon said in an email. "That said, the overarching thought of better relations with Russia was certainly their strategic position."
Paul Manafort was Trump's campaign manager from April through August. He served as a top adviser to a pro-Russian political party in Ukraine from 2004 to 2012 and helped the Russia-friendly strongman Viktor Yanukovych win the Ukrainian presidency in 2010.
An unverified dossier presented to Trump in January by top US intelligence officials alleges that Trump "agreed to sideline" the issue of Russian intervention in Ukraine during his campaign after Russia promised to feed the emails it stole from prominent Democrats' inboxes to WikiLeaks. The dossier also claims Manafort was receiving "kickback payments" from Yanukovych's associates in Ukraine, where Manafort "had been commercially active ... right up to the time (in March 2016) when he joined campaign team."
Manafort and Trump later denied having anything to do with softening the language of the GOP's platform on Ukraine.
"I wasn't involved in that," Trump said in an interview with ABC after the convention. "Honestly, I was not involved."
But he said his supporters were. "They softened it, I heard, but I was not involved," he said.
'Authority and responsibility to shape the GOP platform'
"There was nothing different in what I told you and Jim," Gordon said in an email, referring to Acosta. "His tweet was an issue of semantics, which I've shared with him just now to ensure we're all on the same page."
"The RNC & Trump Campaign intent @ GOP Platform Week was to 'prevent' adding any glaring contradictions to the draft GOP Platform we brought to Cleveland and previously stated Trump positions," Gordon added. "This included the notion that arming Ukraine would have been contrary to the goal of improved relations with Russia."
"The RNC and Nominee's Campaign have the authority and responsibility to shape the GOP Platform," Gordon said. "Delegates who have their amendments defeated in part and in whole should understand the process."
Gordon said in January that neither Trump nor Manafort was involved in the platform change, however. He also said his only role as a Trump campaign representative at GOP Committee Week which took place in the week before the RNC's kickoff was "to monitor the process and facilitate any questions from delegates."
Campaign representatives are not permitted to publicly debate the merits of an amendment at a subcommittee platform meeting, a member of the subcommittee told Business Insider on the condition of anonymity.
Sergey Kislyak
USA Today on Thursday reported that Gordon and another former Trump campaign adviser, Carter Page, met with Russia's ambassador to the US, Sergey Kislyak, at the RNC. Gordon said he considered it "an informal conversation just like my interactions with dozens of other ambassadors and senior diplomats in Cleveland."
According to CNN, Gordon said he and Kislyak discussed the Trump campaign's "goal to forge a better US relationship with Russia." He added that he briefed Deputy White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders about the meetings on Thursday, according to CNN.
Sanders told BI in an email that she and Gordon spoke on Thursday "for about three minutes, mostly about the conference logistics how many people, who put it on, how many ambassadors, etc. It was far from a briefing and JD was a volunteer on an advisory committee on the campaign."
Gordon insisted in January that his only role as a Trump campaign representative at GOP Committee Week which took place in the week before the RNC's kickoff was "to monitor the process and facilitate any questions from delegates."
"This is standard practice," he said, "yet the media unfortunately reported it as something out of the ordinary."
Diana Denman, the GOP delegate who proposed amending the Ukraine platform to include the "lethal weapons" language, contradicted Gordon's version of events in an interview with Business Insider in January. She said Gordon and another Trump campaign representative asked the cochairmen of the subcommittee to table the amendment after she read it aloud.
"Two men sitting over to the side of the room I had no idea who they were but later found out they were Trump representatives jumped up and tore over to get behind the three cochairmen," she said.
Gordon then left the room to make a phone call, Denman said. Equal parts confused and angry over her proposal being scuttled, Denman said she confronted Gordon about whom he was calling.
"I'm calling New York," Gordon replied, according to Denman.
"I work for Mr. Trump, and I have to clear it," she recalled him saying, apparently in reference to the amendment.
Gordon said in an email at the time that Denman "sought to significantly elevate the Ukraine-Russia issue beyond the already strong position of RNC and Trump campaign," so the language had to be watered down.
But the committee member present at the meeting, who requested anonymity to discuss the deliberations, said "the language of Diana's original amendment didn't seem strong."
"It was controversial if you hold Donald Trump's express views on Russia, but it wasn't controversial with regard to GOP orthodoxy on the issue," the committee member said."This change definitely came from Trump staffers not from RNC staffers."
This story has been updated to include comments from Gordon and Sanders.
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Recently, researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital's Wellman Center for Photomedicine have made a breakthrough for spotting and studying this elusive molecule in skin. Sam Osseiran, a scientist on the team lead by Harvard University professor Conor Evans, will present their findings at the OSA Biophotonics Congress: Optics in the Life Sciences meeting.The Evans group's research centers around the use of a high-resolution imaging technique called coherent anti-Stokes Raman Scatterings (CARS) microscopy, a variant of the more widely used Raman spectroscopy that enables chemically-specific imaging by means of detecting molecular vibrations.Evans, whose translational research group specializes in microscopy and spectroscopy for understanding cancer and dermatology afflictions, says the common assumption about locating and imaging pheomelanin is that "there's really no good way to see this mostly invisible pigment when it occurs in skin."But Massachusetts General's chief of dermatology, David Fischer, approached Evans and they decided to collaborate. Evans' research team took on the pheomelanin imaging challenge. "So my team put our heads together, scouring for ways to see it," Evans said.While another optical technology, called transient absorption microscopy, does offer possibilities for studying pheomelanin, this method is complex and does not easily lend itself to clinical practice."We started to look through the Raman literature," Evans said. "Raman spectroscopy is a very mature technique that allows you to detect molecules by their unique chemical vibrations, which are themselves derived from the structure of the molecules. CARS microscopy is a coherent Raman tool that is akin to using a tuning fork to specifically detect molecular structures."Fortunately, CARS microscopy proved successful for imaging pheomelanin. "Pheomelanin has a unique chemical structure, there is nothing else like it in the body," Evans said. "So, we started to look at the molecular structure and noticed there was a corresponding unique molecular vibration that might be useful for imaging the pigment with CARS microscopy."Evans gives much of the credit to his research team, Sam Osseiran and post-doctoral researcher Tracy Wang, for leading the way in developing and refining the CARS microscopy method for imaging pheomelanin. In general, CARS microscopy utilizes two lasers focused on a sample whose energy difference is "tuned" to specific molecular vibrations to generate high resolution imaging information."The work led by Tracy was really rather novel application of CARS microscopy to target this biomolecule which no one else has tried to do before," Osseiran said. "We adjusted our system and aligned and tuned everything so that we could specifically target this one melanin pigment, pheomelanin."Serendipitously, while developing their CARS imaging method, the group found a complementary method that could be used for the simultaneous detection of eumelanin called sum-frequency absorption (SFA) microscopy. SFA makes use of a signal modulation scheme that can detect both species of melanin. This additional imaging tool is important, as most humans produce both species within skin, making mapping the distribution and quantity of both pigments important."Sum-frequency absorption imaging allows you to visualize where all the melanin absorbers are within tissue," said Evans. "As both CARS and SFA can be carried out at the same time, these two techniques can be used together to simultaneously image both melanin pigments."Wang and Osseiran believe their CARS and SFA method could be very helpful for future research on melanoma and its treatment, as well as observing the changes that occur with melanin species in different states. "We are adding another tool to our utility belt here in our investigations of melanoma," Osseiran said.The study's original motivator, David Fischer, believes that a very important benefit of the work might be its potential role in diagnosing cancer."This may offer a brand-new tool for early diagnosis for some of the most lethal melanomas, possibly at a stage when they might still be curable," said Fisher. "Time and time again, it is proven that early diagnosis saves lives."Source: Eurekalert
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Despite prohibitive laws on possession and use of cannabis being introduced in the 1960s, cannabis use has increased in most parts of the world, suggesting the laws have had little effect on use and abuse. Uruguay and a number of US states, including California, Oregon, Alaska, Maine, Massachusetts, Washington, Nevada, and Colorado allow cannabis to be sold for recreational purposes. Canada is set to legalize its recreational use in 2017 and several European countries, including Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands, have lessened or abolished sanctions on possession and use.The main active compounds found in cannabis are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). High potency cannabis is high in THC with low (or absent) levels of CBD. This variety is commonly known as sinsemilla (Spanish meaning "without seed") or sometimes "skunk". Recent evidence suggests that CBD may protect against some of the detrimental effects of THC such as memory impairment and paranoia.Writing in a Personal View, the authors, from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London and UCL (UK), argue that the time has come to consider harm reduction in cannabis use.First, the authors say more focus on the harms of tobacco is needed since cannabis is frequently used with tobacco, particularly in Europe. For instance, smoke-free vapourizers could help reduce the harmful effects of smoke and avoid the highly addictive properties of tobacco.Secondly, they say that in countries where cannabis is legalized, the potency of cannabis could potentially be addressed. In parts of the USA where cannabis is legalized, THC is not regulated and extremely potent cannabis products (up to 75% THC) have gained popularity. Some policy makers in the Netherlands and Uruguay have suggested introducing a cap to limit THC content to 15% and more evidence is needed on the effect of these measures. Alternative options might include taxing cannabis according to THC content.However, the authors argue that these strategies might not be entirely successful, as cannabis users tend to prefer cannabis with a relatively high THC content. Instead, they argue that increasing the levels of CBD could reduce some of the harmful effects of cannabis, without compromising the effects users seek. More research into the harms posed by different levels of THC and CBD content is needed, and this information could potentially contribute to guidelines on safer cannabis use, similar to alcohol."Although most users will not develop problems from their cannabis use, it is vital, especially now that cannabis is becoming increasingly liberalised, that we explore alternative and innovative ways by which we can reduce and mitigate cannabis related harms" says Dr Amir Englund, lead author from King's College London."With the rapidly changing political climate around cannabis, the demand to effectively reduce cannabis-related harms has never been greater, and more research is urgently needed to inform policy decisions. A strategy based on increasing the content of CBD in cannabis might be especially promising because CBD can offset several harms associated with cannabis without compromising its rewarding effects."Dr Tom Freeman, a co-author and Senior Research Fellow for the Society for the Study of Addiction said: "In the last eight years, the number of people in the UK entering specialist treatment for cannabis increased by over 50%. During the same time period, street cannabis has become increasingly strong with high levels of THC and little or no CBD. Further research on CBD is now needed - both to investigate its potential role in mitigating the harmful effects of THC in cannabis, but also as a potential treatment for the minority of people who develop problematic cannabis use. Efforts to reduce the common practice of mixing cannabis with tobacco could potentially prevent people progressing to nicotine dependence, providing a substantial benefit for public health."Source: Eurekalert
Bollywoods newest student of the year, Tiger Shroff is known to keep his personal life under wraps. The actor, who is shy by nature, prefers to stay away from the piercing eyes of the media once he is done promoting his films. Not someone to be spotted at celebrity parties, Tiger is quite the boy-next-door of B-Town. So, when he got caught in a flirtatious conversation with a girl named Cemora on Twitter, we couldn't help but delve deeper. Heres how the conversation with this girl who goes by the handle @one_miss_wander started on Twitter. Tiger spotted a video posted by Cemora from Romania that has some foot-tapping music. Curious to know more, Tiger retweeted it with this comment.
The early bird catches the earworm. :P Met some fellow mad nomads. #NowPlaying - The Gypsies. Tune in! #MadNomad pic.twitter.com/zjOWzdIp3a - Cemora (@one_miss_wander) March 1, 2017
Hey Cemora, music like that shouldnt be enjoyed alone. Care for some company? @one_miss_wander ;) #MadNomad https://t.co/U8Eg9wfMU5 - Tiger Shroff (@iTIGERSHROFF) March 1, 2017
And thats how the conversation started.
.@iTIGERSHROFF I wouldn't mind company, but I hear a tiger is a rare sight in Romania. :P #MadNomad - Cemora (@one_miss_wander) March 1, 2017
I see what you did there :) Let's catch up when you're back @one_miss_wander #MadNomad https://t.co/0CoyH45Xtn - Tiger Shroff (@iTIGERSHROFF) March 1, 2017
Whats more, Cemora even sent out a special birthday postcard to Tiger from Berlin.
Hey @tigerjackieshroff, here's to another year of bustin' some killer moves... These guys are up for it too. #Moowalking #HappyBirthday #Love #MadNomad A post shared by Cemora (@one_miss_wander) on Mar 2, 2017 at 9:31am PST
Going by the series of tweets, it looks like Tiger and Cemora have known each other for a while. We wonder who is this mysterious nomad that has taken B-town by storm. After her quirky interactions with Bani J and Parineeti Chopra, Tiger Shroff seems to be the next celebrity who is in awe of her solo trip to Europe.
Netflix is probably the best thing to happen to all of us and with the huge variety of shows they provide, there is always a new one to binge-watch. Netflixs original content line-up has been growing each year and 2017 has a lot of new and exciting shows in store for us. Here are our top picks.
1. Iron Fist
netflix
Premiering on 17th March
This Finn Jones starrer will be Netflixs fourth Marvel series. The show will follow Danny Rands return to the Big Apple after being presumed dead for 15 years. He will be seen fighting the criminal activities corrupting New York City with his master kung-fu skills along with his ability to summon the power of the fiery Iron Fist, which strikes opponents with superhuman impact. The show will also star Jessica Henwick as Colleen Wing, Iron Fists samurai ally, and David Wenham as the ruthless corporate leader, Harold Meachum.
2. Bill Nye Saves The World
netflix
Premiering on 21st April
This upcoming talk show will be hosted by everyones favourite, Bill Nye, The Science Guy. Reportedly an unfiltered talk show, it will explore topics such as climate change, alternative medicine, video games, and sex from a scientific point of view, whilst also refuting myths and anti-scientific claims. The show will also feature fashion model Karlie Kloss, science YouTuber and educator Derek Muller, comedian Nazeem Hussain, comedian and writer Joanna Hausmann, and the TV host and producer Emily Calandrelli as correspondents.
3. Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later
netflix
The upcoming satirical comedy acts as both a sequel to the 2001 film Wet Hot American Summer as well as a prequel to the 2015 television series Wet Hot American Summer : First Day Of Camp. As the name suggests, the show will be set in 1991, ten years after the events of the movie, and will have the summer camp located near Waterville, Maine and New York City as its setting.
4. Mindhunters
netflix
Premiering in October 2017
Based on the book Mind Hunter: Inside FBIs Elite Serial Crime Unit written by Mark Olshaker and John E. Douglas, the drama series will be set in 1979 and will follow two FBI agents Hollden Ford and Bill Tench, played by Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany respectively, who interview imprisoned serial killers to try to solve ongoing cases.
5. El Chapo
Twitter
As the name suggests, the series will be following the life story of the notorious Mexican drug lord Joaquin El Chapo Guzman. Netflix will be partnering with Univiosion for this drama series.
6. The Defenders
netflix
Premiering mid-2017
This series will see all four of Netflixs street-level Marvel heroes Daredevil (Charlie Cox), Jessica Jones (Krysten Ritter), Luke Cage (Mike Colter), and Iron Fist (Finn Jones) join forces and will be set a few months after the events of the second season of Daredevil.
7. Big Mouth
Twitter
Based on real life best friends Nick Kroll (Kroll Show) and Andrew Goldbergs (Family Guy) teenage years, the show is described as an edgy and surreal comedy. Comedians Kroll and and John Mulaney will voice the central characters of Nick and Andrew, respectively, and the rest of the voice cast will include Maya Rudolph, Jason Mantzoukas, Jordan Peele, Fred Armisen, Jenny Slate and Jessi Klein.
8. Gypsy
Twitter
The series will feature Naomi Watts as Jean Holloway "a therapist who begins to develop dangerous and intimate relationships with the people in her patients lives", with Billy Crudup portraying her husband. Along with that, Fifty Shades of Grey director Sam-Taylor Johnson will direct the first two episodes, as well as serve as an executive producer.
Adding another feather to its cap, The Indian Navy has successfully test-fired a missile from the first ever made in India Scorpene submarine, called the Kalvari. The sub fired an Exocet SM 39 missile at a decommissioned tugboat.
BCCL
The Kalvari can carry up to 18 torpedoes and travel 1,020 kms underwater. The Lkalvari is a part of Project 75, under which the Indian Navy was authorized to build six submarines in collaboration with French firm DCNS. The last submarine to be built in India was actually commissioned to the Navy and was called Shankul. The other 5 submarines will roll-out in the following nine months. More specifications of the Submarine are still to be revealed.
indianexpress
OnePlus has been busy launching its next flagship smartphone and if the rumours are correct, the phone has been dubbed the OnePlus 5. Some of the specs have been surfacing online and a new report from South Korea suggests that the OnePlus 5 is going to be packed with specs that will compete with the likes of Galaxy S8 and other premium smartphones.
YouTube
The report from South Korea suggests that the new OnePlus device will feature a dual-edge display much like the S7 Edge and is going to be the key feature of the handset. The smartphone is also rumoured to have a 16-megapixel selfie camera and a 23-megapixel rear camera. Much like the OnePlus 3 and the 3T, it is said that the phone will sport 6GB RAM or might even have a slight upgrade with 8GB of RAM.
The company is also looking to increase the inbuilt storage capacity to 256GB and might have a ceramic body. It will also sport Qualcomms latest chipset i.e the Snapdragon 835, which has been rumoured to be on the Galaxy S8 as well. If you are wondering why the flagship phone will be named the OnePlus 5 and not OnePlus 4, it has to do with a Chinese superstition where they consider the number 4 unlucky.
YouTube
There is no confirmation from OnePlus if these rumours are said to be true and we're waiting for the company to make any announcement regarding its upcoming smartphone. Of course, as with all rumours and leaks, we advise readers to take the above information about the OnePlus 5 with a pinch of salt, as the company has yet to make any real announcements and the credibility of the sources cannot be independently verified.
Deadly road accidents are common in China, where traffic regulations are often flouted or go unenforced by police (AFP Photo/AFP) (AFP/File)
Ten people were killed and another 38 injured when a passenger bus collided with a cement truck in southwestern China, state media reported on Friday.
The collision late Thursday in Yunnan province, near the border with Myanmar, tossed the bus on its side and flipped the cement truck off the road, Xinhua news agency said.
Nine people were killed instantly while another died after being taken to hospital, the report said.
Deadly road accidents are common in China, where traffic regulations are often flouted or go unenforced by police.
There were more than 180,000 traffic accidents in 2015, causing 58,000 deaths, authorities said in December.
The country's frequently overcrowded long-distance buses are particularly prone to high fatalities.
At least 18 people were killed when a minibus plunged into a lake in the central city of Wuhan in December, state media reported earlier.
In November, a pile-up on an expressway in the northern province of Shanxi killed 17 people and damaged 56 vehicles.
More than a decade after withdrawing its operations from Saudi Arabia, Citigroup Inc. C is making efforts to re-enter the region. The New York-based bank is currently in discussions for acquiring a banking license in Saudi Arabia, as it is trying to capitalize on the countrys financial reforms.
Per people familiar with the matter, Citigroups Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East and Africa, and a senior private banker of the firms operations are involved in discussions with the Saudi Arabian regulators.
Though the company is optimistic about receiving the license, it is apprehensive that the talks could fail at the last stage. Without a license from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) the regulatory body in Saudi Arabia for applying for full financial, legal, and administrative independence international banks face hurdles on working on deals signed in the country.
In 2004, as part of Citigroups strategy to focus on countries where they could control a majority stake, the bank sold its 20% stake in Samba Financial Group to Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund for $760 million. Hence, the company lost a key banking license, putting pressure on the banks activities in the country.
In 2015, the company won a license to trade in Saudi equities, while last year it played an important role of being the leading advisor on the countrys first international bond sale. Further, Citigroup has provided more finance to the borrowers in the country as compared with other banks like JPMorgan Chase & Co. JPM and Deutsche Bank AG DB, who have operations there.
Per the Citigroup officials, the bank now has excess capital and Saudi Arabias plans to boost, restructure and privatize their economy, will prove beneficial. After the Saudi economy opened up for Foreign Direct Investments in Jun 2015, the bank has been directly investing in companies listed on Saudi stock exchange.
Shares of Citigroup gained 7.4% over the last three months; underperforming the 8.5% gain for the Zacks categorized Major Regional Banks.
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Currently, this stock carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
A better-ranked stock in the same industry is Bank of America Corp. BAC. The company has witnessed an upward earnings estimate revision of 6% for the current year in the past 60 days. Its share price has been up 88.89% for the past one year. This stock carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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Ten US officials from across the government have told NBC News that, so far, no "truly significant intelligence" has come from the SEAL raid in Yemen that killed Senior Chief William "Ryan" Owens, the 8-year-old American daughter of Al Qaeda leader Anwar al-Awlaki, and as many as 30 civilians.
Navy SEALs carrying out the January 29 mission were able to seize laptops, hard drives, and cellphones, the Pentagon told NBC News, but the intelligence gathered so far has reportedly not proven actionable or vital.
NBC's latest report about the paucity of the intelligence gleaned from the raid comes after President Donald Trump's speech to Congress on Tuesday and contradicts his assertion that, according to Defense Secretary James Mattis, the raid "generated large amounts of vital intelligence that will lead to many more victories."
A senior US official told the Associated Press that information gathered from the compound included details about Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula's training regimen and targeting priorities Pentagon officials confirmed the recovery of that information to NBC News, but downplayed its significance. One official called it "de minimis."
Other sources have affirmed the value of the intelligence gathered by the SEALs.
One US official told NBC News that it contained hundreds of contact details from a variety of communications applications, hinting at possible connections to the US and Europe.
Donald Trump James Mattis
A senior Pentagon official told The Washington Examiner that the intelligence had already produced leads on AQAP operations in Yemen and on contacts between people.
"This is a place where we have no troops on the ground," the official told The Examiner, "so this kind of intelligence can be very valuable." The official also said Mattis was displeased with NBC News' report because he viewed it as inaccurate.
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The fatal raid has become a polarizing issue for Trump's still-young term. In the aftermath, Trump appeared to put blame for the mission on Obama administration officials and on military officials who planned it.
Trump also singled out Owens' widow during his speech to Congress this week, drawing sustained applause from those in attendance. While some viewed it as a presidential moment to commemorate Owens' sacrifice, others have criticized it as an unsavory spectacle that harvested Owens' death and his wife's grief for political purposes.
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Mr. President,
At the outset I would like to congratulate you on the assumption of the Presidency of the Conference on Disarmament and to wish you all the success in your endeavors.
It is indeed an honour for me to address once again the Conference on Disarmament, the single permanent negotiating forum for disarmament, which has from its inception, set the framework for numerous important multilateral treaties that guided the global community through detente, to the post-Cold War environment. In todays turbulent world, the Conference on Disarmament is called to once again stand up to the challenges the international community is confronted with. Today it is more important than ever that the longstanding deadlock is broken by restarting negotiations on pivotal issues such as the Fissile Material Cut Off Treaty (FMCT), which is after all the 'next logical step' towards nuclear disarmament and at the same time, to address other pressing issues in the field of disarmament.
We believe that Resolution 71/259, titled Treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices, voted in the UN General Assembly, is guiding the process in the positive direction as it calls upon states to . . . consider and make recommendations on substantial elements of a future non-discriminatory, multilateral internationally and effectively verifiable treaty, banning production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices. . .
At the same time we cannot ignore the fact that deliberations during the 71rst UNGA were also divisive. That was the case of the Resolution 71/258 Taking forward Multilateral Nuclear Disarmament Negotiations which established a negotiating mandate for a legally binding treaty aimed at banning nuclear weapons.
In our view it is high time we left behind the current inertia of this important negotiating forum and take advantage of important initiatives regularly tabled in the UN First Committee. As in previous years, Greece, along with the rest of the EU member states, supported Resolution 71/259 on the "Treaty Banning the Prohibition of Fissile Material for Nuclear Weapons or other Nuclear Explosive Devices (FMCT)". We remain steadfast in the belief that, in the effort to achieve in the long run a world free of nuclear weapons, the way forward towards complete and verifiable nuclear disarmament is through a realistic step-by-step approach. An appropriate first step would be a fissile material treaty.
Allow me now to turn to an issue to which Greece attaches great importance, given that we are the longest-standing observer of the CD, since 1982. I am referring to the question of enlargement, which is foreseen in Rule 2 of the CD Rules of Procedure, according to which "The membership of the Conference will be reviewed at regular intervals". We are of the view that there is no reason or moral justification to exclude UN member States from disarmament discussions, all the more so because of the universal nature of the United Nations. In a time when universal challenges require collective solutions through global partnerships, it is indeed an anachronism to restrict participation in negotiations on disarmament issues to only sixty five countries. It is equally counterproductive to hold Enlargement hostage to bilateral issues which have absolutely no relevance to the subject matter of the Conference on Disarmament.
In conclusion, Mr. President, given the multiple challenges which the world is facing today in the field of global security, we believe that the CD cannot afford to remain in constant deadlock and should finally begin substantive work, through the adoption of a Programme of Work. Recent initiatives in the First Committee, the inauguration of the 2020 NPT review cycle and the increasingly fragile global security environment, have set the stage for a constructive outlook.
Greece stands ready, as a responsible member of the international community, which participates in all of the principal instruments in the field of disarmament, to contribute constructively, in order for the CD to shed its stasis.
Thank you Mr. President.
Mr. President of the Human Rights Council,
Mr. High Commissioner for Human Rights,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a great honor for me to be here today and have the opportunity to address the Human Rights Council at its 34th session.
I would like to express my deep appreciation to the High Commissioner for Human Rights Mr Zeid Raad al Hussein for his work and assure him of Greeces continued support.
Mr. President,
The protection and promotion of Human Rights and fundamental freedoms constitute the defining principles of the Greek Constitution and an integral part of our legislation and our history. Human Rights are at the heart of our policy, both at national and international levels.
We are convinced that in order to strengthen the UN members-states ability to, promptly and effectively implement their human rights obligations, a consensus-based approach backed upon dialogue and collaboration is certainly more realistic and conduce to tangible results.
Greece remains committed to the universality, indivisibility and interdependence of all fundamental rights, providing its full support to the multilateral human rights system within the United Nations. Consequently, we support the UN Human Rights Councils special Procedures and the UN Human Rights Treaty Body system.
In this vein, Greece maintains a standing invitation to all HRC Special Procedures and, during the recent years, has received a significant number of relevant official visits.
Additionally, in October 2015, Greece presented its Periodic Reports on the implementation of both the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In August 2016 presented its Periodic Report on the Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
We are, also, fully involved in the Universal Periodic Review Mechanism. In May 2016, Greece presented its comprehensive national report to the Universal Periodic review Working Group at its 25th Session.
Greece has ratified almost all major international Conventions and Additional Protocols related to the protection of Human Rights. In 2014, my country ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture, whereas the Greek Ombudsman has been designated as the national preventive mechanism under the above mentioned Protocol. Moreover the Convention on the Rights on Disabilities and its Optional Protocol and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance have already been ratified and enshrined in our national legislation.
Aiming at actively contributing and further promoting the important work of the Council, Greece presented its candidature for membership to the Human Rights Council for the period 2019-2021, hoping for your support. Greece has never been elected as a member to the HRC.
If elected, my country will continue working in a spirit of cooperation and constructive dialogue with all relevant UN bodies and member states, convinced of the added value of a consensus-based approach.
Mr President,
In the midst of the economic crisis, where the impact of fiscal austerity measures and of foreign debt burden on human rights has, unfortunately, become more than evident in our society, we are focusing our work in fora such as the Human Rights Council, on cross-regional initiatives aiming to tackle important social and economic rights such as: the right to work, the world drug problem, the enjoyment of cultural rights and the protection of cultural heritage, youth and human rights. Our attention in the area of economic, social and cultural rights emanates, also, from the fact that the promotion and protection of these rights is an interrelated component for the realization of Civil and Political Rights.
In the area of civil and political rights as such, we actively support a series of EU and other initiatives regarding the protection of the human rights defenders, the fight against racism and any other forms of discrimination including those based on religion, gender and sexual orientation. Additionally, considering that the promotion and protection of freedom of expression is a fundamental prerequisite for building inclusive democracies, we are one of the main sponsors of the Human Rights Council resolution for the safety of journalists and at the same time we have the leadership in the relevant resolution at the United Nations General Assemblys Third Committee.
At a national level, Greece remains fully committed with the constant aim to champion, protect and promote the Human Rights of all persons residing or transiting the countrys territory, excluding any form of racism or discrimination on ethnic, religious, gender or other grounds.
The harsh economic crisis that Greece has been enduring the last seven years is an extreme case of the broader crisis affecting many European countries. The impact of economic recession has been significant, leading to a sharp increase both of the percentage of the population living under the threshold of poverty and of the unemployment rate, including, in particular, youth unemployment. Believing that the way out of the severe economic crisis must be framed by policy measures which should be in full compliance with human rights, the Greek Government has been striving, while implementing the latest financial agreement, to protect the rights of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups. I would like to point out that, regrettably, the international community and its institutions have not been able to design and implement a human rights-based response to debt crises and to conduct thorough human rights assessments.
Let me stress once again that the full enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights in Greece is a priority for our government. We insist that this issue figures prominently -and we expect that it will be taken fully into account- during the current discussions with the international institutions involved.
As regards the migration and refugee issue I stress once more that it remains a cause of major concern for us. It is very well known that Greece is facing a particularly strong migratory pressure due to its geographic position at the external border of EU. Since the beginning of 2015, more than 950,000 persons, mostly originating from Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq, have crossed the Greek sea borders with Turkey and reached the Greek islands. The vast majority of them are refugees fleeing from war and conflicts. For the time being, as a result of unilateral measures and the closure of the Western Balkans migratory route, more than 62.000 persons are stranded in Greece.
Greece despite the severe economic constraints of the past seven years, along with its European partners and the valuable support of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), is giving its utmost attention to the issue and continues to mobilize all its efforts to respond adequately to this alarming influx. My country devotes tremendous efforts (and financial resources) to rescue those people in need, (so far around 150.000 people), with the aid and mobilization of local population in our frontline islands and to ensure protection of the fundamental rights and human dignity of them, specifically of the vulnerable persons and groups, notably unaccompanied children, pregnant women, disabled persons, etc.
It goes without saying that an international crisis of such a magnitude can only be tackled through international cooperation and burden sharing.
Finally, in the context of national efforts to promote human rights, it is worth mentioning that Greece, in 2014, introduced its first Action Plan on Human Rights which for the time being is under review. Moreover, a National Action Plan on the Rights of the Child and a new Action Plan on Gender Equality aiming to address the challenges arising from the effects of the economic crisis are being elaborated. These efforts highlight our determination to continue to promote human rights for all with special focus to vulnerable groups.
Concluding, I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the importance of mainstreaming Human Rights throughout the work of the Human Rights Council. In this respect, allow me to reiterate once more my countrys full commitment to the promotion of Human Rights and fundamental freedoms, and its determination to continue working closely to this end with all the UN Human Rights protection mechanisms and treaty bodies.
HARBOR BEACH The Harbor Beach Community Hospital Foundation is hosting its European Tower Pheasant Hunt as its next fundraising event.
The event will be on Saturday, April 1, at the Rooster Ranch on Germania Road near Ubly, starting at 7:30 a.m. with registration and breakfast at 8:30 a.m. There will be a gun raffle setup for your enjoyment, practice clay pigeons, tower hunt, lunch and a walk up pheasant hunt with guides and dogs. The birds are cleaned by the ranch and distributed to the hunters. There will also be a gun raffle sponsored by Randy's Hunting Center and a 50/50. Vange Wolschleger made this wonderful pheasant quilt that will go home to some lucky winner. Tickets can be purchased at the hospital admitting office, and you do not need to be present to win.
CASEVILLE The members of the Caseville Historical Society had their monthly meeting on Thursday, Feb. 16. There were 13 members present at Mccabee Hall, 6733 Prospect St., for the meeting.
President Rich Bass opened the meeting at 10 a.m. with a hearty welcome for all attendees. Bass called for the minutes of the previous meeting and the treasurers report to be presented. Both were presented and approved without changes. Bass reminded those present about the Spring Historical Society of Michigan Conference on March 3 and 4 in Sterling Heights. A brochure is available in the museum office for anyone interested in attending the conference.
The State Historical Societys next History Skills Workshop will cover disaster planning for historical organizations and will be presented on March 17. Bass circulated a sign-up sheet asking for volunteers to work at the museum over the next month.
The Membership Committee reported one new member, Marie Nicholl.
Events planned for the 2017 calendar year include the Ice Cream Social on May 28, the Ladies Luncheon on June 10, the Charity Island Picnic on July 20, the Cheeseburger Museum Aug. 11 through the 20, All Museum Weekend and Caseville Historical Museum Car Show Sept. 23 and 24, and the Harvest Dinner on Nov. 12.
President Rich Bass said the museum had three visitors over the past month. He said items have been recently donated by Virginia Leipprendt, Barbara Meyers, Jim Trope, Nancy Brown, the Caseville D.P.W. and Charlie Morden. The Acquisition Committee met following the monthly meeting to determine disposition on the newly donated items. Joyce Miller said the new display featuring a Ladies Dry Goods & Millinery Shop is in the planning and early set-up stage. The group is looking for donations or loans of items that would enhance this display. Items being sought include shelves or bins, an old cash register, vintage fabric, an old house dress to put on the mannequin, a glass front cabinet, sewing patterns and thread, notions, buttons-on-a card, a school dress, ankle socks, and undergarments. All items should be from the mid 1900s.
In support of the Genealogy Committee, Barb Eimers is available the first Thursday of each month at the museum to assist persons interested in researching family or building histories. Eimers has materials available to assist in this research and offers assistance between 1 to 4 p.m. on those Thursdays.
Reporting for the Development Committee, Rich Bass said the construction work will soon be completed. The first floor fireproofing has been completed and painted. Again, thanks were offered to D&D Construction, Last Call Drywall, All Pointes Services, Centerline Heating and Cooling, Jim Flock Plumbing, and Caseville True Value Hardware.
John Depner spoke on research he has completed on Civil War General George Mead.
The next meeting will be on Thursday, March 16. All meetings are open to the public and everyone is invited to attend. Meetings are a good way to interact and meet with others interested in preserving the history of the local, Caseville area.
For more information, call 989-856-9090, visit the web-site at www.thehchs.org/caseville, e-mail the group at chscm@comcast.net or like the group on Facebook
LAMOTTE TOWNSHIP A 24-year-old Cass City woman was injured in a two-vehicle accident on M-53 near McAlpine Road Wednesday night.
According to the Sanilac County Sheriff's Office, deputies were called to the scene around 9:30 p.m., where the woman was traveling south on M-53 when she lost control on the icy roadway. She then crossed over the center line and struck a northbound pickup pulling a trailer with a vehicle on it. The pickup was driven by a 69-year-old Snover man.
BAD AXE The Huron County Planning Commission will lose about 70 years of experience this month with the retirement of two veteran planners.
Commission Chair Clark Brock and Commissioner Joel Weber attended their last regular meeting Wednesday night, and Commissioner Robert Oakes presented them with certificates of appreciation.
... Its been educational, controversial at some times, enjoyable, and I appreciated the opportunity to serve, said Weber, who has served on the commission for more than 40 years.
He also thanked the past and present Huron County Board of Commission members for giving him that opportunity.
And Oakes commended Brock, who has been on the board for more than 29 years, for his service.
You did well here, Oakes said. And for somebody who is gracious to be able to take the swings and arrows of being the chair, and leading us through all of the things that you have led us through all of these ups and downs and for somebody who has done it correctly ... for your 30 years, and being chair; congratulations, and God speed, and we love you, man.
It has been a pleasure, Brock said. I have enjoyed ... all 29 years plus, and ... my dad told me years ago that, If youre in education, community service is a part of that. And I believed him completely, and have really enjoyed it. ... I have appreciated the support that we have had over the years. And I really appreciate the fact that even though there were times that people in the community didnt agree with the things that we were doing, they understood the things we were doing. So its really been great.
The board of commissioners has received two letters of interest for serving on the planning commission.
They were from Charles Bumhoffer of Sebewaing and William Renn of Chandler Township.
Interviews for seats on the planning commission will be at the March 21 county board meeting.
Weber and Brocks final meeting will be March 22, at a special meeting with Alan Bean of Spicer Group regarding the Huron County Master Plan.
Other issues that came before the planners included:
An update by Apple Blossom Wind Farm officials, who said preparation for construction could begin as soon as March 13, depending on when frost laws are lifted.
A Deerfield Wind Energy project update; it has been operating commercially since Feb. 22.
Officials from Big Turtle Wind Farm Phase II gave an update on that project, and the planners reviewed the post-production sound modeling protocol.
Robert Gaffke of Bloomfield Township presented his wishes for sound testing regarding his noise complaint resolution with Big Turtle II. Gaffke proposed stricter sound limitations than those covered by the county wind ordinance. Brock said that although the planning commission cannot require sound measurement outside the ordinance requirements, Gaffke may request it.
Dale Hass of Dwight Township has filed a noise complaint with the Deerfield project. Scott Martin of Deerfield Wind Energy said a meeting was scheduled for Thursday morning with Hass to address the complaint.
The planners reviewed Oliver Townships proposed zoning ordinance updates. There were questions about the townships classification of solar farms as being compatible with land preservation, which planners say conflicts with state law when it comes to farmland preservation.
They also reviewed a proposed amendment to the Caseville Township zoning ordinance regarding storage structures.
During public comment, Gaffke asked whether the amount spent on attorneys for appealing the Michigan Tax Tribunal ruling on the valuation of wind turbines could be made public. Brock noted that the planning commission was not privy to that information.
The next regular planning commission meeting will be at 7 p.m. April 5 at a location to be determined.
BAD AXE A Lowell man who performed procedures on animals in Huron County years ago, was arraigned Wednesday in court for allegedly presenting himself as a licensed veterinarian and practicing veterinary medicine with a suspended license, according to the states attorney general.
Bruce Phillip Langlois, 57, was charged with three counts of unauthorized practice of veterinary medicine and habitual offender-third.
An investigation began after the state received complaints alleging Langlois continued to practice veterinary medicine until December 2016. Langlois is currently the owner of the Animal Hospital in Lowell.
He is also the owner of Spay and Neuter Express, a mobile clinic that offers low-cost surgeries for local pets. The mobile hospital came to Bad Axe in March 2013, and at that time, Langlois told the Tribune he conducted between 10,000 and 18,000 surgeries a year.
On Nov. 6, 2015, Langlois veterinary license was revoked due to numerous previous suspensions and continued practice despite those suspensions. Multiple pet owners alleged that Langlois performed veterinary services for their pet after Nov. 6, 2015. He provided pet owners with a 24-hour telephone number if any complications appeared with pets. Its alleged that Langlois was the only one with access to the hotline.
This man repeatedly violated the rules of his profession to the point of his license was revoked, but even that was not enough to stop him, Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette stated in a news release. People like Mr. Langlois who believe they operate outside the law will end up facing consequences.
Langlois was arrainged in Huron County District Court on Wednesday. Judge David B. Herrington set bond at $10,000, 10 percent. He is scheduled to appear in court on March 16 for a probable cause conference and again on March 17 for a preliminary examination. Both proceedings are scheduled for 9 a.m.
As of Thursday, Langlois has posted bond and remains free.
If convicted, each charge is punishable by up to five years behind bars and/or a fine of $5,000.
It is a stark reminder that we must remain diligent and do our research when choosing who to trust with our pets health, Schuette stated.
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SAO PAULO, March 3 (Reuters) - The Mexican peso on Friday firmed to the strongest since the November U.S. elections after the U.S. Commerce Secretary said a sensible trade deal with Mexico could help the battered currency.
The peso strengthened 2 percent to 19.57 per dollar, the strongest in four months.
The peso had closed 2016 with its worst yearly performance since 2008 after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to pull the United States out of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
Speaking on CNBC, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said those NAFTA fears pummeled the peso, which reached an all-time low on Jan. 11, and that a sensible trade deal would boost it.
Trump has also said he would slap a hefty tax on imports to the United States from Mexico to pay for a border wall.
Other Latin American currencies seesawed as traders avoided making big bets ahead of a speech by U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen later in the day.
Expectations of a U.S. rate increase in March, which could reduce the allure of high-yielding assets, have weighed on demand for emerging market currencies this week.
Key Latin American stock indexes and currencies at 1535 GMT: Stock indexes daily % YTD % change change Latest MSCI Emerging Markets 929.17 -0.77 8.59 MSCI LatAm 2579.68 -0.11 10.33 Brazil Bovespa 65897.25 0.06 9.41 Mexico IPC 47127.49 -0.34 3.25 Chile IPSA 4419.90 0 6.47 Chile IGPA 22122.11 0.02 6.69 Argentina MerVal 19043.56 0.4 12.56 Colombia IGBC 9878.89 0.08 -2.46 Venezuela IBC 37409.75 1.63 17.99 Currencies daily % YTD % change change Latest Brazil real 3.1439 0.20 3.35 Mexico peso 19.6380 1.82 5.63 Chile peso 657.3 -0.43 2.04 Colombia peso 2981.25 -0.32 0.68 Peru sol 3.29 -0.24 3.77 Argentina peso (interbank) 15.4700 -0.39 2.62 Argentina peso (parallel) 16 0.12 5.13 (Reporting by Bruno Federowski; Editing by Andrea Ricci)
Camp Lejeune Town Halls Aim to Help Those Exposed to Toxic Water. Heres How You Can Go.
Retired Marine Master Sgt. Jerry Ensminger made it his mission to tell the world that if they lived or served on Camp Lejeune...
Here's a look at the most popular stories this week on Military.com: Hundreds Mourn Veteran Who Warned of 'Burn Pit' Hazards National Guard veteran Amie Muller believed deployments to Iraq caused the cancer that killed her. By Mark Brunswick | Read more Air Force Removes Posters at Langley AFB Following Sexism Complaints Several posters that had been on display for at least six years were removed from a wall at Langley Air Force Base after the National Organization for Women and the Military Religious Freedom Foundation complained that they were sexist, according to the Air Force. By Brock Vergakis | Read more Decorated Navy Captain Dies in Off-Duty Accident An Okinawa-based senior Navy officer was killed this week in what officials are calling an off-duty recreational accident. By Hope Hodge Seck | Read more Popular in Army
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-- Justin Sloan can be reached at Justin.Sloan@monster.com. Follow him on Twitter at @JustinMSloan.
More than 30 U.S. airstrikes over the past two days in Yemen had long been planned and were not the result of intelligence gained from the Jan. 29 raid in which Navy SEAL William "Ryan" Owens was killed, a senior U.S. defense intelligence official said Friday.
The official said that SEAL Team 6 came away from the raid against an Al Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula compound with "potentially actionable" intelligence on AQAP leadership and activities, but that information was not useful for the airstrikes.
"We found an awful lot of telephone numbers, lots of contact information and things like that" at the AQAP compound in the action in which Owens, 36, of Peoria, Illinois, was killed, said the official, who spoke to Pentagon reporters on grounds of anonymity.
"So that helps us understand who's within the network and who's tied to who and who's connected to who, which then allows us to draw that mosaic of what the group is and how it's situated," the official said. "Then it's a policy question as to what you do about it."
"It's definitely helping us understand the network and further develop it out," the official said. "This has been good information" and "we're happy to have it."
At an earlier Pentagon press briefing, Navy Capt. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman, said that at least 25 airstrikes against AQAP, using manned and unmanned aircraft, were carried out Thursday and several more Friday for a total of more than 30.
He also stressed that there was no connection between the airstrikes and the Jan. 29 raid.
"All of the targets were developed prior to the raid in January," Davis said, and "the planning for this was developed well before Jan. 20," the date of President Donald Trump's inauguration.
Davis denied reports from the region that U.S. infiltration teams had been inserted into Yemen and had engaged in firefights during the airstrikes.
"There have not been firefights," he said, while acknowledging that "we do have U.S. forces that go in and out of Yemen" on occasion.
All of the airstrikes were coordinated with the exiled government of Yemeni President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi and were concentrated in the central mountainous area where the governorates of Abyan, Al Bayda and Shabwah converge, Davis said.
Sadek al-Jaouf, a Yemeni tribal leader, told The Associated Press that airstrikes hit the Yaklaa district of Al Bayda, which was the site of the Jan. 29 raid.
In addition to Owens' death, three other team members were wounded in what U.S. Central Command described as a "ferocious firefight" and at least two were injured in the hard landing of a Marine MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft.
The $70 million aircraft could not be flown out and had to be destroyed by a Marine AV-8B Harrier jet flying off the amphibious assault ship Makin Island in the Red Sea.
Davis suggested that the airstrikes would be part of a sustained campaign against AQAP to break up potential terrorist plots against Europe and the U.S. and aid Hadi's forces in Yemen's long-running civil war.
"In some ways, you could say we already have a civil war within the civil war," the senior defense intelligence official said.
Hadi's forces, backed by the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, are battling Shia Houthi rebels allied with former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh. AQAP has flourished in the ungoverned spaces, sometimes opposed to and sometimes allied with a small contingent of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria fighters operating in Yemen, the official said.
-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.
Expansion in important markets and consolidation of facilities in existing ones have been an important part of Equinix Inc.'s EQIX core strategy. In line with the strategy, the company recently purchased 34.5 acres of land in Ashburn for a total consideration of $34.5 million. The property buyout is expected to help Equinix in increasing its footprint at North Americas largest internet peering point.
The total land was divided into four parcels and is close to Equinix's current Ashburn data center campus. The new land will be used to build multiple greenfield International Business Exchange (IBX) data centers.
Buying Ashburn Property Makes Sense
Ashburn is located in Loudoun County, VA, which is just outside the Washington DC. Equinix currently operates 10 IBX data centers in the Washington DC which covers more than 500,000 square feet area and over 850 customers. This makes it the largest internet exchange point in North America and one of the largest in the world.
Out of the 10 IBX data centers in the Washington DC, eight are located in Ashburn. The company revealed that the newly purchased land will encompass five new facilities which will cover over 1 million square feet.
Furthermore, by quoting Kelly Morgan, Research Vice President, Services of 451 Research, Equinix explained the importance of investing in Ashburn. According to Morgan, "Northern Virginia is the largest multi-tenant datacenter (MTDC) market in the U.S. by operational square feet and will continue to grow rapidly, as several new facilities are expected to come online in the next one to two years. The market has seen consistently strong demand, enabling providers like Equinix to fill large builds quickly. Northern Virginia not only attracts datacenter tenants from all over the globe interested in connectivity, but providers there serve government agencies and local businesses."
The recent investment in Ashburn property is part of Equinixs ongoing strategy of increasing its ownership assets across various regions. Per the company, in the past four quarters it has purchased land to expand key campuses across Ashburn, Silicon Valley and Chicago. Apart from this, it has purchased IBX buildings in Amsterdam, Paris and Rio de Janeiro.
Story continues
Bottom Line
Equinix remains positive on the growing demand for data centers. To meet the growing demand for cloud services, the global interconnection and data center company is expanding its IBX data centers globally and gaining popularity among tech companies looking for data management. Thus, the company expects its total addressable market for retail data centers to increase at a CAGR of 8% from 2013 to 2017 and reach $24.0 billion. Based on this projection, Equinix projects a revenue growth rate of 10% through 2017.
Therefore, we believe that by expanding its data center assets, Equinix will be in a better position to capitalize on this opportunity. Furthermore, the expansion will help the company to further strengthen its global footprint and bring in additional revenues.
Shares of Equinix have been steadily trading higher on a year-to-date basis. The stock generated a return of approximately 4.6% compared with the Zacks REIT-Equity Trust industrys gain of just 0.7%.
Currently, Equinix carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Better-ranked stocks in the broader technology sector include Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. AAOI, NVE Corporation NVEC and AXT Inc. AXTI. Applied Optoelectronics and NVE Corporation sport a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) while AXT Inc. carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Applied Optoelectronics has witnessed upward estimate revisions for 2017 and 2018 in the last seven days and has surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate thrice in the trailing four quarters with an average positive surprise of 116.49%.
Estimates for NVE Corporation have also moved up in the last 60 days. It has surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the trailing four quarters with an average positive surprise of 14.05%.
AXT Inc. has witnessed upward estimate revisions for 2017 and 2018 in the last seven days. It has surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in all the trailing four quarters with an average positive surprise of 118.75%.
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BRUSSELS (AP) The European Union says it is in contact with the World Bank to look at the issue of a loan to Greece.
The World Bank traditionally provides loans for developing nations. Greece has been dependent on bailout loans from its partners in the eurozone and the International Monetary Fund since 2010.
EU Commission spokeswoman Annika Breidthardt said Friday that the "Greek authorities have signaled that they would like to push ahead with further active labor market policies and one of those avenues would be through approaching the World Bank."
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(Courtesy of "I'm Concerned About the Blueberries")
Our Blueberry Ambassadors were busy doing good in their community. Some stories were centered around generous donations and others were focused on the small acts of kindness.
This week's Blueberry Ambassadors include three different groups from Davison Hahn Intermediate -- Keri Collins, Tammara Fellows and Cayla Dowdall took the lead there to coordinate students' Blueberry Moments's -- as well as Aliza Grant's group from Carman-Ainsworth Dye Elementary and Julie Torsch's group from Westwood Heights Hamady Middle School.
Being a Blueberry Ambassador means students are obligated to do at least three random acts of kindness -- to look for three ways to go out of their way to positively impact someone or the community. The actual number of good deeds is immeasurable actually much higher than that because each Blueberry Ambassador also asks those they help to pay it forward.
Through a partnership with MLive, the students' stories are published online. Below is an excerpt of just some of the Blueberry Moments. Check out all the teams' good work at http://topics.mlive.com/tag/flint-blueberries/.
To find out more about "I'm Concerned About the Blueberries," email BlueberryAmbassador@gmail.com.
Hahn Intermediate School, coordinator Keri Collins
Charlie Armstead
Blueberry Moment 10814
My first Blueberry Moment I helped two older friends of ours that have trouble putting up their Christmas lights. We decided to go over to their home and put up their lights for them because they cannot do it themselves. They are getting older and do not want to get up on the ladder so we helped them with it. My dad and I helped them because we didn't want them to get hurt. They were very happy and it made me happy they didn't get hurt.
Preston Mata
Blueberry Moment 10833
My first Blueberry Moment was helping make my friend and neighbor feel happy. She had a major surgery in New York and had been out of school healing for quite a while. I knew she missed her friends and needed something to cheer her up. I made a huge card for all of her friends at school to sign. I met up with a couple of her friends so this could happen. They passed it around school to get a lot of nice messages. I made up a get well package of goodies along with the card, and delivered it to her that night. Her smile was priceless and I think this helped her a lot! If I were in her shoes, I would want the same nice gesture to happen to me.
Abby Latchana
Blueberry Moment 10819
For my second Blueberry Moment, I wanted to make sure that children would have warm clothes and coats. I know other kids do not have coats and boots like I do. My 10
th
birthday party was coming up and I thought that asking for hats, boots, coats, and gloves instead of birthday presents would be a good idea. My mom planned my party and 22 girls came! They brought 238 items including 19 winter coats, 40 pairs of gloves, 46 hats, and $95! I took the money and bought Meijer Simply Giving cards so it doubled to $180 for Outreach East. Then we packaged all the donations up and my dad and I took them to Outreach East. I also made dessert and gave it to Ms. Jan as she does so much for other people who need it. The people at Outreach East were so happy and Ms. Jan loved her cookies. I told her what I did for my birthday, gave her my Blueberry Card, and asked that she help someone and pass on the card so we can keep random acts of kindness going. I really loved doing that, and I am sure that the kids will be really happy with what we were able to give.
Davison Hahn Intermediate, coordinator Tammara Fellows
Katie Kraut
Blueberry Moment 10887
Today, I did something I did not think I could do. A few weeks ago, my mom and I came up with an idea called "Katie's Wishing Well" because I wanted to help kids in Flint. I created a "wishing well" and was able to collect $100. With that money I was able to buy 100 gallons of water and donate them to Salem Lutheran Church in Flint. My grandparents and my sister helped me deliver the water. They were so happy to get it. I gave a Blueberry Card to the pastor and told her what Blueberry Ambassadors do. I will never forget how thankful they were to have all that water and I will always remember what "Katie's Wishing Well" did.
Madelyn Wheat
As a Blueberry Ambassador, I chose for one of my random acts of kindness to take my birthday money and purchase items for the Cool to Care food drive. My mom and I went to Meijer and purchased 135 items to donate. This random act of kindness made me feel good because I was able to help Davison Community Schools provide food to families in need. I did not get to see anyone's reactions because all items were given to Outreach East who then gave them to the families in need.
Sydney Benner
Blueberry Moment 10878
My first Blueberry Moment was on a very cold day, I brought the crossing guard hot cocoa. She appreciated it because it helped keep her warm, and it made her smile. My dad and I arrived at Hill Elementary after school one day. We pulled by a stoplight and unrolled the window and handed it to her.
Davison Hahn Intermediate, coordinator Cayla Dowdall
Eva Latchana
Blueberry Moment 9642
There is a girl in my class that I have been concerned about. She has been talking to me and she is going through some hard family problems. I thought about how I could help, so I decided for my last Blueberry Moment that I would give her one of my worry dolls. The doll is supposed to help get rid of your worries. The doll came from Guatemala which is where I was adopted from. You tell the doll your worries and put it under your pillow before you go to sleep. Your worries disappear the next day when you wake up. I told her this when I gave her the doll and she thought it was really cool. I gave her the Blueberry Card and she knew all about the Blueberries. It made me feel good to try and help her.
Makayla McArthur
Blueberry Moment 10908
My grandma had Glioblastoma, brain cancer, and was undergoing radiation and
chemotherapy. She told me that while she was at radiation another patient told her that they really liked her fleece blanket and asked if she would want to sell it. She said no because her granddaughters and daughter-in-law made it for her so it was special and brought her comfort during her treatments. The patient said to tell us that they would buy a blanket from us if we wanted to make more. When my grandma told me about it, I came up with an idea. I decided to make several fleece blankets and donate them to the cancer centers. I wanted to donate to the one in Petoskey -- where my grandma went -- and the local ones near me. I asked friends and family if anyone had any fleece they wanted to donate to my project. They were very generous and I received a lot of fleece and money donations to help fund my project. Before I could make my first delivery, my grandma passed away. I included with my blankets a note that said they were in memory of my grandma and hoped the blanket would provide them comfort during their treatment as it did my grandma. My first delivery was to the Oncology department at McLaren. The nurse was very thankful and said that the patients would be very appreciative to receive them. I plan on continuing to make more blankets and donate them. This is important to me because I want other people going through this to know that someone cares about them and are willing to provide some comfort during their hard time.
Abbie Britton
My second Blueberry Moment is I gave some of my old dress up clothes and dress up heels to my mom's friend's little girls. When we arrived to give the clothes my mom's friend told the girls to come and see the clothes and the girls came out of their rooms and their faces lit up they were so excited to have the clothes to play with, and of course the first thing they wanted to do was try them on. I helped them put the clothes on and we had a fashion show to show the parents their brothers even watched it they loved every moment they were so happy that I gave the clothes to them they didn't want me to leave.
Carman-Ainsworth Dye Elementary, coordinator Aliza Grant
Keanna Lisha Gray
Blueberry Moment 10944
A couple weeks ago, my mom and I were driving and we saw this homeless man on the sidewalk and he had a piece of cardboard that said, "I will work for money!" I always feel sad when I see a homeless person and all I had was two dollars. I was going to spend the money at Santa's Workshop, but I decided to give it to the homeless man. He was so thankful!
Ariyanah Holmes
Blueberry Moment 10951
This year I have a teacher who does not like dirt anywhere! So, a friend and I came in, but when we did, we said we didn't want to go outside. So instead, we helped her clean. We were just going to sweep but then decided to pick up book bags and coats off of the floor. We also organized the bookshelf. She said we did a good job. Even though it wasn't a really big thing, I was still proud.
Alexia Banyand
Blueberry Moment 10952
My dad got into a bad car accident and had broken his jaw. He had to get it wired shut. My mom and I felt bad so, we went to get him soup and a milkshake at Panera. When we brought it to him he said it tasted like strawberry and banana yogurt. I was happy that I saw my dad and proud of myself for doing something nice for someone else.
Westwood Heights Hamady Middle School, coordinator Julie Torsch
Izaha Washington
Blueberry Moment 2082
My friend and I were heading to KFC to get the $5.00 fill up. I had exactly enough money to get that for myself, $5.30! As I was parking my car a man came up to my window. He didn't look homeless, but he didn't look like he had a lot. He said to me, "Sir, do you have $5.00 I can have to get gas for my car. I have a pregnant wife (which we could see) and she can't walk long distances." My friend said "No" right away. I knew we had money. I also knew I had food at home, so my friends and I could eat at my house. I gave him my last $5.00 and my friend gave him $5.00 as well. I also gave him a Blueberry Card and asked him to pay it forward. It was great that I was able to help this man and his wife, but my friend followed in my foot steps and showed kindness.
Shariay Jenkins
On December 13, 2016, I was on my way to school when I saw a little boy walking to school on Carpenter Road. There was snow everywhere, and he didn't have on a coat or boots. I asked my dad to pull over. I asked him if he needed a ride to school. I was already late, but he was cold. I'd rather be late than let a child in need go without. If I were in the same situation, I would hope someone would do the same for me.
Terriana Bennett
I went down to visit my family in Florida for a few days. On one of these special days I brought along my Blueberry Card. As my granny and I walked into the Publix grocery store, I saw a young mother and daughter digging in the garbage in search for food. I told my granny to go ahead and get a quick snack. I went down to the Target, and got them things they would need for the cold weather. I got a pillow, blanket, and a small toy for the little girl. It might haven't been a lot but I tried my hardest to make sure they had a good day that day. They were so grateful that the mother cried. My granny and I were going to go get some ice cream around the corner, so we invited them. The little girl was so happy. The small things we can do mean a lot to those in need.
YPSILANTI, MI - Eastern Michigan University held an inauguration ceremony Thursday, March 2, officially welcoming James M. Smith as the institution's 23rd president.
Smith, formerly president of Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota, assumed his duties as president of EMU on July 1, 2016, following his selection by the university's board of regents in February.
In his inaugural address Thursday at Pease Auditorium on the EMU campus, Smith spoke on the topics of unity, opportunity and innovation - the overarching themes that he said continually cropped up in his conversations with faculty, staff and students over his past eight months on campus.
"In the eight months I've been here, (I've seen) Eastern is a place where faculty, staff and administrators love our students," Smith said. "I've seen how you care; I've seen how you reach out to students.
"We know the importance of serving the students we have. I often say when I'm with student affairs professionals that moms and dads don't have better kids at home in the closet. They send us the students that they have, the children that they love, and we work with them. Sometimes it's an interesting mosaic."
Smith, who grew up near Columbus, Ohio, earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio; a master's degree from Xavier University in Cincinnati and a doctorate degree from Miami University.
He said one area of opportunity he sees for EMU is growing the university's international student enrollment.
"The potential impact of growing international student development on our campus is striking," Smith said. "The (economic) impact of international students on the United States in 2015 ... was $35.8 billion."
Sidney Ribeau, who previously worked with Smith at Bowling Green State University in the early 2000s, was also invited to speak at Thursday's inauguration ceremony.
Ribeau described Smith as having an infectious excitement and passion for higher education, commenting that he was confident EMU's new president would work tirelessly for the university community.
"Jim knows that education transforms lives," Ribeau said. "He is in the business of life transformation. He realizes that every student has potential, and she or he needs to be given an opportunity.
"He'll continue the tradition of excellence that Eastern has been known for, and everyone will benefit."
Smith said he plans to finish his career at EMU. He said he hopes to devote 10 years to the position of president.
"I'll work with you to accomplish the very best we can in the next ten years," he said. "We will build on Eastern's character. We will work with our students. We are here (to make) education first."
ATLANTA, MI -- A former Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office lieutenant was sentenced Friday, March 3, to one year of probation and 40 hours of community service for drunken driving.
A northern Michigan judge also gave Brian Filipiak a 93-day deferred jail sentence, which means he will only serve the time if he violates probation.
Dressed in a black suit, Filipiak chose to let his attorney do the talking at the sentencing, which took place before 88-2 District Court Judge Benjamin Bolser in Atlanta, the seat of Montmorency County, where the former lieutenant was arrested last November.
"This trip to deer camp on Nov. 13 of last year has had a significant impact on my client's life," said Timothy Arner, Filipiak's Boyne City-based attorney. " ... He's accepted full responsibility for his actions. There's no one to blame but himself. He was thankful, and is thankful, that there were no injuries to anyone on that day or as the result of his driving."
Filipiak was arrested in Rust Township with a blood-alcohol level of 0.28 - more than three times the legal limit. A deputy's body camera footage showed Filipiak trying to talk his way out of the arrest based on his position as a lieutenant in Washtenaw County.
The incident took place for more than half an hour before authorities got the clearly inebriated Filipiak out of his truck and into the back of a patrol car.
Arner told Judge Bolser that Filipiak has acknowledged the deputy's fine police work during the arrest.
"He has contacted and complimented and commended the arresting officer in this case for his professionalism and how (Filipiak) was treated by him," Arner said.
Filipiak was initially charged with misdemeanor operating while intoxicated with a blood-alcohol level of 0.17 or more - commonly referred to as the "super drunk" law. He later pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of operating while intoxicated on Jan. 27, according to court records.
Since the arrest, Filipiak has undergone extensive alcohol rehabilitation, according to Arner.
The terms of his probation include no drinking and frequent alcohol testing. Judge Bolser also ordered Filipiak to perform 40 hours of community service and to pay $1,266 in fines and costs.
"This case is concerning to the court based on your background and your employment history ... and the very high level of blood alcohol content at the time. And the appearance of what occurred at the arrest," Bolser said before passing sentence. "I understand that this event, in essence, has destroyed your life. It ... has had everlasting effects, at least, on your career and on your status in your community, at least based on what I saw in this ... report. My hope is that this has brought you to realize that you have a severe alcohol addiction and a disease that you're going to have to (address) the rest of your life."
Filipiak has lost the title and pay of a lieutenant, but remains employed at the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office. He no longer is a sworn officer, the department said.
He was placed on unpaid administrative leave during the internal investigation and is now employed on a conditional basis working in a support capacity at reduced pay, officials said.
As a lieutenant, he was being paid in the ballpark of $79,000, but is now receiving deputy wages, officials said, which range from around $42,000 and $63,000, according to the county's salary report.
Filipiak and Arner did not have any comment about his sentencing on Friday.
031714_Howell_CS-1.JPG
Howell High School, 1200 West Grand River Avenue in Howell.
(The Ann Arbor News file)
HOWELL, MI - A 17-year-old Howell High School student was arrested Friday, March 3, after police allege she threatened to shoot up her high school.
Howell High School administrators contacted police at 5:30 p.m. Thursday about anonymous threats against the school on Twitter, according to Howell Police.
After an overnight investigation, police arrested the 17-year-old student. She was lodged in the Livingston County Jail pending charges and arraignment, police say.
The tweets said, "Rest in peace. Bye bye Howell schools" and
"The school should have been shot up a long time ago, but since it wasn't, I'll have to do it my damn self," the Livingston Daily reported.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / March 3, 2017 / Gungnir Resources Inc. (TSX-V: GUG, OTC PINK: ASWRF) ("Gungnir" or the "Company") is pleased to report results of initial confirmation sampling at its recently acquired Knaften property extension in Sweden. Gungnir's assays from drill core returned 2.92 g/t Au over 13 metres, and spot assay checks confirm highly anomalous gold mineralization within broad zones of highly altered rocks two kilometres away.
Jari Paakki, CEO of Gungnir, comments, "Today's results support historic data and show that gold mineralization occurs over significant widths, as well continues to demonstrate the potential size of the gold mineralizing system at Knaften, which extends several kilometres both north and south of the area of focused historic drilling."
The Company viewed several drill holes archived at the SGU (Swedish Geological Survey) core facility in Mala Sweden. The gold mineralized zone is visually very distinct, with disseminated sulphides (mainly arsenopyrite) throughout. Drill hole 2007-07 was one of the only complete core sections of mineralization available for re-sampling. Assays for drill hole 2007-07 returned 2.92 g/t Au over 13 m starting a down hole depth of 81.5 m. The original reported assay interval for 2001-07 was 3.2 g/t Au over 10 metres (83.5 to 93.5m). True widths of the drill hole intersections reported cannot be determined from the information available.
Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) 2007-07 81.5 94.5 13.0 2.92 includes 81.5 82.5 1.0 6.47 and 84.5 90.5 6.0 3.71 includes 86.5 87.5 1.0 9.53
Additionally, the Company re-sampled drill core from drill hole 2008-18 located approximately 2 km south west of drill hole 2007-07. Three spot samples were collected from a 50-metre drill section of highly altered sedimentary rocks to determine gold levels, and potential southern extension of the gold mineralizing system. All three samples returned highly anomalous gold, including 1.37 g/t Au over 0.10m (at 91.9m), 0.34 g/t Au over 0.5m (at 102.75m), and 0.09 g/t Au over 0.5m (at 124.25m). Original assays from this drill hole are not available, but drill core has been split. Drill core and assays for 10 drill holes that were drilled in 2010 in the immediate vicinity of drill hole 2007-07 are not in the drill core archives.
Photos of drill core and maps are available in the Company's updated corporate presentation, which may be accessed directly with this link "Gungnir Presentation Q1 2017."
Drill core samples represent one-quarter drill core which was halved by sawing already split drill core. Drill core is archived and stored at the SGU core facility in Mala. Core was logged and tagged for sampling at the core facility, then brought to ALS Minerals' Core Services Laboratory also in Mala. Core was sawn on site by ALS staff and sample material was sent to ALS's Lab in Pitea Sweden. Gold was analyzed using fire assay procedure Au-ICP21.
Mr. Jari Paakki, M.Sc., P.Geo., is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Paakki prepared the technical information contained in this news release and has approved its disclosure.
About Gungnir Resources
Gungnir Resources Inc. is a Canadian-based TSX-V listed mineral exploration company (TSX-V: GUG, OTC PINK: ASWRF) with gold and base metal permits in northern Sweden within a region hosting 12 million ounces of gold delineated in existing and mined resources, plus several past-producing and producing base metal mines. The Company's key gold project, Knaften, is situated at the southern extension of the "Gold Line" which hosts a number of gold deposits including Faboliden and Svartliden (Dragon Mining), and Barsele (Agnico Eagle and Barsele Minerals). The Company additionally holds a $5,000,000 royalty stream with five annual advance cash payments of $1,000,000 expected to commence on or before May 1, 2017. Further information about the Company and its properties may be found at www.gungnirresources.com or at www.sedar.com.
On behalf of the Board,
Jari Paakki, CEO and Director
For further information, contact:
Jari Paakki, CEO
Tel: 705-507-4470
jpaakki@eastlink.ca
Chris Robbins, CFO
Tel: 604-683-0484
robbinscr@shaw.ca
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements made herein may contain forward-looking statements or information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. In certain cases, 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 of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "would," "might" or "will be taken," "occur" or "be achieved," or the negative of these words or comparable terminology. By their very nature forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual performance of the Company to be materially different from any anticipated performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements or information include, but are not limited to, statements or information with respect to Gungnir Resources' plan for future funding, and exploration and development of its properties. Forward-looking statements or information are based on a number of estimates and assumptions and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements or information. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying estimates and assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or information. For example, there is no certainty, that any economically viable mineral deposit will be located on the properties, or that the Company will receive or be able to raise sufficient capital to complete all of its exploration programs. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements or information. Gungnir does not expect to update forward-looking statements or information continually as conditions change, except as may be required by securities law.
SOURCE: Gungnir Resources Inc.
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business Apollo Hospitals falls 4% on stake sale by Malaysian fund Khazanahs arm Integrated (Mauritius) Healthcare Holdings sold over 6 percent stake in the healthcare firm. Prior to the deal, it held 10.85 percent stake in the company.
jeff bezos moon blue origin ap nasa svs business insider 4X3
Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon as well as a rocket company called Blue Origin, wants to colonize the moon.
That's according to a report from The Washington Post, which obtained a secret memo the billionaire was circulating around the offices of NASA and President Trump's administration. (Bezos owns the Post and invests in Business Insider.)
An early stage of the plan, set to kick off by mid-2020, would begin an "Amazon-like shipment service" to the moon to deliver the cargo astronauts would need to permanently settle the lunar landscape.
Bezos confirmed the document's authenticity to the Post.
"It is time for America to return to the Moon this time to stay," he reportedly told Christian Davenport of the Post. "A permanently inhabited lunar settlement is a difficult and worthy objective. I sense a lot of people are excited about this."
Counting Elon Musk's recent announcement that he'd like to launch two paying customers around the moon in late 2018, Bezos' plans mark the second private lunar mission in the works that's come to light this year.
blue origin spacex nasa rockets compared
Blue Origin, like Musk's rocket company, SpaceX, is developing a "super heavy-lift" rocket that'd be capable of lofting people, supplies, and spacecraft into deep space.
Musk's giant rocket is called "Falcon Heavy" while Bezos' is called "New Glenn" (named after astronaut John Glenn).
According to an early comparison of both rockets, the first iteration of New Glenn will be taller than the Falcon Heavy, but the latter may have about 30% more thrust.
Both rockets will be partly reusable, theoretically lowering the cost of access to space.
"Our vision is millions of people living and working in space, and New Glenn is a very important step. It won't be the last of course," Bezos wrote in an email to Business Insider in September 2016. "Up next on our drawing board: New Armstrong. But that's a story for the future."
Story continues
Whether Trump and NASA will go for Bezos' proposal remains to be seen. But to make Blue Origin's moon colonization scheme possible, Davenport wrote, the company said it must to pair up with the space agency.
Read Davenport's full story at The Washington Post.
This story has been updated to note Jeff Bezos' ownership of the Post. Bezos is also an investor in Business Insider through his personal investment company Bezos Expeditions.
NOW WATCH: Watch Jeff Bezos' spaceflight company make history with a monumental rocket landing
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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,
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Jeff Sessions
Democrats and some Republicans in Congress are in an uproar over more revelations of connections between President Donald Trump's inner circle and Russia.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions had two conversations with Russia's ambassador to the US during the 2016 campaign, but said he "did not have communications with the Russians" during his confirmation hearing for attorney general, The Washington Post reported Wednesday night.
Sessions, then an Alabama senator, reportedly spoke with Russia's US ambassador Sergey Kislyak in July and September, when he was also a Trump campaign surrogate.
On Thursday afternoon, Sessions announced he was recusing himself from any Department of Justice investigations into the Trump campaign's connections with Russia.
It's fairly common for ambassadors to the US to meet with senators, according to David Engerman, a historian at Brandeis University who specializes in American diplomatic relations and the Cold War. Ambassadors do so because it is crucial that they understand the American political landscape, and know what politicians' plans could affect their countries.
Engerman did say, however, that Sessions' connection to Trump would be a major reason for Kislyak's motivations for the meeting.
"The principal job of the Russian ambassador in Washington is to advance Russian interests," Engerman told Business Insider. "Some senators are more active than others do I think the Russians were interested in talking to him because they knew of his connections to the Trump campaign? Certainly. That's what a good ambassador should know."
Engerman said connections between ambassadors and lawmakers happen other way too. American ambassadors frequently meet with lawmakers in other countries in order to advance US priorities. Throughout history, he said, ambassadors and lawmakers have frequently met to discuss serious issues, but also to exchange diplomatic gossip or build relationships between the two countries.
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"That doesn't mean Sessions should have engaged in that conversation, on legal grounds, political grounds, or ethical grounds," he said. "What matters about this case is what he said and when he said it. ... Any such conversations like this could go in a direction which is ranging from unfortunate to illegal."
Michael McFaul, who was President Barack Obama's US ambassador to Russia from 2012 to 2014, has also said that it is likely Kislyak targeted Sessions because of his relationship with Trump.
"Let's not be naive folks. Kislyak obviously was meeting Sessions because of his role in Trump world. That's his job," McFaul wrote on Twitter Thursday morning. "When Putin's foreign policy advisor Ushakov met with me in October 2008, you think he wanted to talk about political science at Stanford?"
McFaul also called for a bipartisan, independent commission to investigate the Trump-Russia connection, and for Sessions to recuse himself from the probe moves top Democratic lawmakers asked for, as well.
NOW WATCH: 'Those remarks are unbelievable to me': Sessions responds to claims he spoke with Russia's ambassador twice last year
More From Business Insider
Over the next 16 months, 10 new students at Mitchell Community College will learn how to administer medication, treat burns, stop bleeding and perform a myriad other medical tasks that will help save lives.
Appliance, electronics and furniture retailer hhgregg, which has fought for years to win customers amid competition from Best Buy, Walmart, Lowe's and Home Depot, announced Thursday it will close 88 of its 229 stores, including Mooresville's and three others in North Carolina.
The Indianapolis-based company said close-out sales in the 88 stores will begin shortly and that the stores will close by mid-April.
About 1,500 jobs will be eliminated company wide, but it is not clear how many of those are in Mooresville. A manager at the Mooresville store declined to comment on the number of employees here, referring questions to the corporate office. However, officials there could not be reached.
In addition to the 88 store closures, hhgregg said it will close three distribution facilities in Maryland, Florida and Pennsylvania.
In the announcement, the 62-year-old company said the moves are intended "to improve liquidity and return to profitability. These decisions will help the Company refocus efforts on its core markets and goals to enhance customers' experience both in-store and online."
Added Robert J. Riesbeck, hhgregg's president and CEO, "We are strategically exiting markets and stores that are not financially profitable for us. This is a proactive decision to streamline our store footprint in the markets where we have been, and will continue to be, important to our customers, vendor partners and communities.
"We feel strongly that the markets we will remain in are the right ones for our customers and our business model. Our team is dedicated to moving forward and being a profitable 132 store, multi-regional chain where we will continue to be a dominant force in appliances, electronics and home furnishings.
"The management team has worked tirelessly over the past year to return hhgregg to profitability," continued Riesbeck. "We have determined that the economics of the affected locations will not allow us to achieve our overall goal of becoming a profitable company again. After scrutinizing our real estate portfolio, we have identified a number of underperforming stores, as well as store locations that are no longer strong shopping destinations due to changes in the local retail shopping landscape."
The Mooresville store is on N.C. 150 west of I-77, just west of Best Buy.
Responding to the news of the Mooresville store's impending closure, Mayor Miles Atkins told the Tribune:
"It is so important for communities to pay attention to the retail trends that are emerging nationwide. Reports are showing that stores providing unique in-store experiences will thrive and personal service is becoming increasingly important to consumers. That can be a daunting task for any size business, especially the larger stores."
Continued Atkins, "As elected officials, we must pay attention to this data so we can properly forecast the use of new and existing commercial space. We are fortunate that many businesses, large and small, are still interested in being in Mooresville and our business climate is diversified. However, any loss of service, business or employment has an impact on us locally and we pay attention to the potential fallout."
And Russ Rogerson, executive director of the Mooresville-South Iredell Economic Development Corporation, said the store's closing "seems to be another example of retailers' ongoing struggle to be competitive in an ever changing market.
"While it's disappointing to lose them, their facility is located in one of the strongest retail locations in the area which should attract a new retailer to our community to fill that space," Rogerson added.
The other three North Carolina stores scheduled to close are in Cary, Durham and Asheville. Fourteen other states will see store closures, the most coming in Pennsylvania and Virginia, with 15 apiece.
Morganton evangelist Jaime Torres recently got an opportunity to share his testimony with an international audience.
An anonymous tip led producers with The 700 Club, a TV program that features Christian news and stories, to showcase Torres life and ministry in a six-minute video clip.
Torres specializes in prison ministry, as he was once ministered to in prison himself.
The video follows Torres as he shares his testimony about growing up in New York City feeling rejected by family members after his mother remarried. He sought acceptance from various gangs and joined his first gang at age 14. Through his association with the gangs, Torres got into drug-trafficking, a practice that intensified when he was sent back to his father in Puerto Rico, who also was a drug dealer.
Torres activities eventually landed him in a federal prison in Georgia, where he was witnessed to by fellow inmate Gene Lawson, whom he remembers as a smiling man who was always in a good mood. Lawson invited Torres to come to a Bible study that was being held in the prison.
My Lord met me there, Torres said of the Bible study. He came to me, he loved me and he changed me. I like to say, I went from slinging dope to slinging hope. Prison is meant to take away your freedom, but I found my freedom there. But you dont have to go to prison or deal drugs to experience the love of Jesus. He can keep you from all that foolishness.
After receiving Christ into his heart, Torres spent his 15 years in prison learning how to read, getting his GED, then pushing himself even further to get a masters degree in theology in pastoral care. He also led other inmates to accept Jesus Christ as their savior.
Hes been loving and living for the Lord and spreading the word ever since, said Kesha Nichols, the president of Jaime Torres Minstries, Inc. He touches the lives of everyone he meets.
Torres was released in 2000 after the Christian lawyers who led the Bible studies in the prison argued his case. From then on, Torres dedicated himself to helping others, especially prison inmates, find their way to the foot of the cross.
I love lifting up the fallen man and the family, Torres said. I love to inspire men, women and children to live for God. I like to awaken the dreams that have been shattered in peoples lives. I never thought in my life that I would be that sort of instrument for the Lord, but I have embraced my role and taken my assignment seriously.
Torres moved to Morganton several years ago after feeling a calling from the Lord to relocate. His first cousin, Javier Guzman, is a Morganton resident.
Torres ministry takes him to several different prisons in the area, where he counsels inmates on a weekly basis, and also has led him to preach in seven countries in Central and South America.
In addition to his prison visits, Torres said he teaches a class once a week at the North Carolina Boys Academy in Conover, which is a therapeutic Christian boarding school for teenage boys ages 13-17 struggling with life-controlling problems, according to www.ncboysacademy.org.
Torres was recently sworn in as a chaplain for the Morganton Department of Public Safety, and has plans to meet with representatives with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association to become a chaplain with the organizations Rapid Response Team.
Torres said his ministry also focuses on uniting people. He has developed a weekly series called, Real Faith, Real Talk, which takes place on Fridays at 7 p.m. at the Catawba River Baptist Association, to give the community a forum to discuss spiritual issues.
When you come there on a Friday night, youll see Hispanics, blacks, whites, Hmong, Torres said. Its a place where we embrace and respect one another. Its a place where real people meet real faith.
He urged churches of all denominations to focus on staying united as the body of Christ.
I want to give a shout-out to all the churches in Morganton, Torres said. I love them and Im proud of the work theyre doing here in the community. I want them to keep fighting the good fight of faith. We are all on one team, and need to embrace team work. A house divided against itself cannot stand.
A film crew with The 700 Club traveled to Morganton earlier this year to record the segment on Torres. They shot at the Burke-Catawba Jail and Broadcast Horizon Network.
We were able to use a jail cell to recreate Jaimes life when he was in prison, Nichols said. Jaime was able to take us back to that place where he was (when he was incarcerated.) Its important to him that he never forgets where he came from, because that way hell never forget where the Lord has brought him to.
This was a way for him to share his story with millions of people all at once. Were just so humbled by the opportunity. Its a really big deal.
Nichols said producers contacted her shortly after the segment aired to let them know the video had resulted in 77 salvations and 74 rededications to faith within a couple days.
Torres said he enjoyed the experience.
It took me back to experience the grace of God and his mercy and power, Torres said. I saw clearly everything I had to go through to get to this point.
Nichols said she expects the video and Torres to continue to have a life-changing impact on others.
I believe people will see that if the Lord can reach down and grab someone like Jaime Torres, someone who had no purpose in life, and just bring him from the depths of hell and save him and show him he is loveable, and that through Christ anything can be done, then (they will believe) it can happen for them, too, Nichols said. No matter where you are in your life and what is going on, the Lord is always with you.
To view The 700 club video, visit http://bit.ly/2mM5AWE.
To learn more about Jaime Torres Ministries Inc., visit www.liftingupthefallenman.org.
Tammie Gercken can be reached at tgercken@morganton.com.
TD Bank Group ("TD" or the "Bank") will release its first quarter financial results and host an earnings conference call on Thursday, March 2, 2017.Financial results will be issued in a press release at approximately 6:30 a.m. ET. The call will be available live via TD's website at 3:00 p.m. ET and is expected to last approximately 60 minutes. The call and audio webcast will feature presentations by TD executives on the Bank's financial results for the first quarter, followed by a question-and-answer period with analysts.The presentation material referenced during the call will be available at this link on March 2, 2017, by 12:00 p.m. ET. A listen-only telephone line will be available at 647-794-1827 or 1-800-274-0251 (toll free) and the passcode is 6587007.The audio webcast will be archived here . Replay of the teleconference will be available from 6:00 p.m. ET on March 2, 2017 until 6:00 p.m. ET on Friday, March 31, 2017 by calling 647-43600148 or 1-888-203-1112 (toll free) and the passcode is 6587007.The presentations may contain forward-looking statements including statements regarding the business and anticipated financial performance of the Bank. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the statements. Therefore, forward-looking statements should be considered carefully and undue reliance should not be placed on them.
After meeting with government officials to express how the recent mortgage rule changes have impacted the industry, channel representatives are headed back to Ottawa.On March 6th and 7th, I will be joining Eddy Cocciollo, President of Mortgage Centre Canada ; Paul Taylor, CEO of Mortgage Professionals Canada, and others to return to Ottawa to represent ( Dominion Lending Centres ) and our industry, Dave Teixeira, VP of marketing and public relations at DLC , said in a note to the DLC network, which was shared with MortgageBrokerNews.ca. Along with other industry leaders, we will be attending the first ever Parliament Hill Advocacy Days. These two days will be about meeting with parliamentarian decision makers and key policy makers.These two days follow earlier meetings with the Standing Committee on Finance that took place in February.Industry representatives -- including Dominion Lending Centres own Gary Mauris , Paul Taylor of Mortgage Professionals Canada, and Ajay Soni of the Canadian Mortgage Brokers Association met with MPs, as well as representatives from CMHC.I can tell you Gary made a big, positive impression on the Committee, Teixeira said. This group is seriously questioning the approach taken by CMHC, their own Federal Government and others.In addition the Marchs meetings, Mauris is also scheduled to meet with Deputy Governor of the Bank of Canada, Larry Schembri to share insights into how the recent mortgage rule changes have impacted the industry and Canadians.
A recent report from Canadian real estate advisor and broker Newmark Knight Frank Devencore showed that as of the end of Q4 2016, the vacancy rate across all office space types in downtown Vancouver fell to 7.5 per centa stark contrast to the 9.6 per cent figure in the previous year.
The impact has been immediately apparent: Approximately 95 per cent of the structures delivered in this development cycle are almost fully leased, and average gross rents have ballooned to $41.17 per square foot by the end of the last three months of 2016.
And these movements are showing no signs of abating, according to the British Columbia Real Estate Association.
The strength of the underlying BC economy, particularly relative to the rest of Canada, makes BC a very attractive destination for commercial investment, BCREA economist Brendon Ogmundson stated, as quoted by BuzzBuzzNews.
BCREAs CLI (Commercial Leading Indicator) metricwhich predicts B.C. commercial real estate trends, taking into account the provinces fiscal health, economy, and employment numbershas increased for the fourth consecutive quarter. In Q4 2016, the CLI rose by 1.5 index points, up to 123.9 per cent.
In early February, a report from Avison Young revealed that vacancy in Metro Vancouver offices is at its lowest since the end of 2014, a development mainly fuelled by what the commercial real estate services firm called healthy absorption levels.
Vacancy in the Downtown area dropped to 7.2 per cent. Avison Young officials attributed this to a resilient market.
There was no meaningful movement in rental rates in 2016 and they should remain fairly stable in 2017, although further decreases in the vacancy rate may apply modest upward pressure to net effective rates, Avison Young principal Brian Pearson said.
A recent report from Canadian real estate advisor and broker Newmark Knight Frank Devencore showed that as of the end of Q4 2016, the vacancy rate across all office space types in downtown Vancouver fell to 7.5 per centa stark contrast to the 9.6 per cent figure in the previous year.The impact has been immediately apparent: Approximately 95 per cent of the structures delivered in this development cycle are almost fully leased, and average gross rents have ballooned to $41.17 per square foot by the end of the last three months of 2016.And these movements are showing no signs of abating, according to the British Columbia Real Estate Association.The strength of the underlying BC economy, particularly relative to the rest of Canada, makes BC a very attractive destination for commercial investment, BCREA economist Brendon Ogmundson stated, as quoted by BuzzBuzzNews.BCREAs CLI (Commercial Leading Indicator) metricwhich predicts B.C. commercial real estate trends, taking into account the provinces fiscal health, economy, and employment numbershas increased for the fourth consecutive quarter. In Q4 2016, the CLI rose by 1.5 index points, up to 123.9 per cent.In early February, a report from Avison Young revealed that vacancy in Metro Vancouver offices is at its lowest since the end of 2014, a development mainly fuelled by what the commercial real estate services firm called healthy absorption levels.Vacancy in the Downtown area dropped to 7.2 per cent. Avison Young officials attributed this to a resilient market.There was no meaningful movement in rental rates in 2016 and they should remain fairly stable in 2017, although further decreases in the vacancy rate may apply modest upward pressure to net effective rates, Avison Young principal Brian Pearson said.
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Record Bank Earnings, Basel Update; Appraisal and Collateral Trends
For me the last few weeks included travel to events in Florida, Texas, Southern California, and now The Mortgage Collaboratives event in Arizona. And although I wouldnt describe the mood as vivacious out there ("keeping our noses to the grindstone" would be more appropriate), in terms of demographics I have noticed more and more younger faces at conferences. Indeed, Pew Research finds that as of the end of last year there were over 58 million millennial workers in the US labor force ranking this group #1 in size vs. 53 million Gen X workers coming in at #2.
Bank and M&A news.
Tricon Capital Group announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire public single-family rental (SFR) operator Silver Bay Realty Trust Corp. by way of an all-cash transaction for approximately $1.4 billion, which values the company at $21.50 per share. Tricon Capital indicated that the acquisition is expected to close by the end of the second quarter of 2017. Tricon Capital is the parent company of Tricon American Homes (TAH), which is the firm's wholly owned operator of its U.S. single-family rental business. The acquisition of Silver Bay will create the fourth largest publicly-owned SFR company. After the completion of the acquisition, TAH will hold more than 16,800 homes in its total SFR portfolio, of which nearly 9,800 are currently included in three single-borrower securitizations totaling $1.1 billion.
Is it true that banks are where all the money is? Perhaps. Banks' profit hit a record high of $171.3 billion last year, a 4.9% increase from 2015, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Unprofitable banks made up 4.2% of the system, the lowest level since 1995.
Global regulators working on the Basel III banking rules have ended a two-day meeting without setting a date for their issuance, but have expressed a determination to reach agreement and completion, saying that many outstanding matters have been resolved. The US has not yet appointed a Federal Reserve official who would oversee banking supervision, and this has been cited as a main reason for the delay.
With hints of lessening regulations (heck, everyone would be happy if we did away with triple damages with the False Claims Act) will banks pick up the pace in residential lending? As everyone knows more borrowers are choosing non-depository lenders than ever before to obtain a home loan. In 2011, 50 percent of all new mortgage loans originated from the three largest banks: JPMorgan, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo. However, in September 2016, that share plunged to 21 percent. During that time, non-banks emerged as six of the 10 largest lenders by volume, including Quicken Loans, loanDepot, and PHH Mortgage. In 2011, only two of the 10 largest lenders were non-banks.
Obviously, depository banks have a wide range of revenue earning products whereas the standard mortgage bank only has first liens and mortgages. Non-banks are a little nimbler and can offer more home loan products. As depository banks have backed away from the mortgage business due to onerous and often overlapping & conflicting regulations from the last ten years, non-bank lenders have filled the void.
Appraisal, collateral, and value trends & developments
Has the appraisal crunch we had six months ago in many parts of the nation died down due to volumes falling? To some extent, yes. But some inherent structural problems remain, and I received this note from the president of a well-known bank in the West on the lack of new, young appraisers. "First off, the entrepreneurial return to enter/pursue the business just hasn't been there. With the 4-year degree and 2-year apprentice requirements (which many lenders and realtors don't have this level of experience) many would-be candidates maybe choosing different business lines that can pay them more much sooner with their experience.
"Along the same line, the appraiser has long been one of the least underpaid part of the real-estate transaction. Even at current 'high' fee levels, a '2 appraisal a day' appraiser turning 600 in a year charging $700/appraisal is making gross $420K/yr. before overhead expenses and assuming full capacity. Reduce this by 50% for those factors and a very good appraiser (established with degree and client base) may make $200K/yr. How many real estate agents and originators make more than this? Lots of them!
"Also, apply this to new folks looking to enter the market and you can see where it may deter many. The presence of CU and other automated tools may likely change this landscape dramatically in the next 5-years as appraisers may take on 2 roles: property viewer/certifier of condition (non-technical), and specialized/unique property appraiser (specialized and more difficult). Finally, much of this is due to the current rate environment. If volume slows, the noise is likely to drop a lot. Experienced appraisers have been through this before and are unlikely to build up their business when they may have to deal with overhead cuts soon."
Quicken Loans' National Home Price Perception Index (HPPI) showed the average appraisal value was 1.47 percent below what owners expected in January. This two-month drop in the HPPI comes on the heels of a six month stretch where opinions between homeowner and appraiser were steadily moving closer to equilibrium. Appraisal values in January stayed mostly flat, slipping only 0.34 percent last month per Quicken Loans' Home Value Index (HVI). When viewed annually, appraised values continue to rise, increasing 3.93 percent year-over-year.
Ditech Financial posted a Job Aid when ordering VA appraisals through the WebLGY application in the online Veterans Information Portal for its Wholesale Clients. The Job Aid will help clients generate a complete and accurate VA Request for Determination of Reasonable Value Form (26-1805-1) and reduce errors that may delay the appraisal inspection and issuance of the VA Notice of Value (NOV).
Nationstar Mortgage now maintains and distributes a monthly Appraiser Exclusionary List in an effort to continue to ensure collateral quality. Correspondents are encouraged to review the Nationstar Mortgage Appraiser Exclusionary List prior to submitting a loan for loan purchase. If a loan delivered to Nationstar utilizes an appraiser on the Appraiser Exclusionary List, the loan is ineligible for purchase.
Wells Fargo Funding added an authorized appraisal management companies (AMCs) to include Assurant Valuations (formerly StreetLinks). Beginning February 14, 2017.
Updates to NYCB's Appraisal Fee Schedule [WSL:652] will be effective 02.20.17 for all new registrations on Table Funding loans and all Correspondent transactions where the appraisal is ordered through Gemstone.
The Appraisal Fee Screen's functionality at Stearns was improved to simplify the LE process. Its newest enhancement to SNAP 2.0 enables you to automatically pull the exact Appraisal Fee into your loan based on the state and appraisal type requested. No matrix or grids to review. To avoid delays, any LE generated on or after 2/10 will require the new appraisal fee to be disclosed on your LE. Visit SNAP 2.0 to reference the new appraisal fee schedule.
Effective for Insurance Applications received by MGIC on or after Feb. 15, 2017, Fannie Mae PIWs will be accepted as meeting the Underwriting Requirements when offered by Desktop Underwriter(DU) and exercised by the lender in accordance with requirements published in Fannie Mae's SEL-2016-08 and its Selling Guide. Further, MGIC will not rescind coverage on a loan with an exercised PIW based on a Material Value Variance, unless fraud, misrepresentation or inaccurate data were involved in obtaining the PIW or the PIW was not valid under the Fannie Mae Selling Guide.
Home values influenced by pot? According to a study from the University of Mississippi and software technology company FNC Inc., marijuana legalization could drive housing values up.
Capital markets
By now a March rate hike is nearly fully priced into the market. At least, if anyone is paying attention to what all the Fed officials are saying in their speeches it should be. In the last 48 hours, we've had additional comments by Governors Brainard and Powell expressing support for a 25-basis point rate hike at the March meeting. And to its credit the Fed has been relatively transparent in their various speeches. With this as a backdrop, the 10-year note's yield broke 2.50% for the first time since mid-February closing at 2.49%. (The 5-year note and agency MBS prices worsened about .125.)
The highlight of today's calendar will be the five scheduled Fed speakers, and we can all expect more hints at our economy doing well enough for the FOMC to vote for another increase. There aren't any big scheduled economic numbers coming out, merely some secondary or tertiary numbers like some Markit Services PMI and ISM Non-manufacturing PMI later in the morning. In the early going the 10-year is yielding 2.50% and agency MBS prices are approximately unchanged versus last night's close.
Jobs and Announcements
Turning to the job market, an established national mortgage lender is looking to acquire a wholesale sales team. The Company is well-capitalized and approved with all government sponsored agencies (Fannie, Freddie, Ginnie). If you're interested in having a confidential conversation, please e-mail me to relay your note; please specify the opportunity and excuse any delays due to travel.
In correspondent news, "Do you know what the 'Rule of 72' is? In the investment community, it is a simplified way to determine how long an investment will take to double, given a fixed annual rate of interest. Well, at The Money Source (TMS) they have their own 'Rule of 72.' After analyzing 32,891 loans recently purchased by TMS's correspondent lending division in 2016, an astonishing 72% of all these loans had a final price equal to original price! It is no surprise they are now one of the top 10 correspondent lenders for government loans in 2016. TMS also just rolled out its EASY bulk registration and Excel download PA tool to help your secondary team and back office save time and energy when delivering loans. To find out more about how you can deliver loans to an investor who doesn't nickel and dime you on the backend after loan delivery, email EVP of Correspondent Sales, Jeff Vanderluit."
In product news, "As lenders look to adopt a truly automated and more efficient process, the discovery process involves finding a technology that truly replaces the labor-intensive manual data entry, and not simply outsources the work to the lowest possible bidder. LoanBeam, a premier provider of mortgage technology solutions, will be in Las Vegas in Booth #711 of the Ellie Mae Experience 2017 to help lenders identify how to build a consistent, repeatable, transparent, and more profitable process. LoanBeam's automated income extraction and calculation is capable of extracting and calculating 100% of borrower's income through OCR technology refined over 14 years and millions of scanned income documents. With this type of refinement, LoanBeam accurately pulls out all relevant income data from any native PDF at a 99.7% accuracy the first time, with no human touch. For more information about how LoanBeam can improve your process flow, increase your efficiency, and deliver higher profitability per loan, visit our site.
And, "With the explosion of millennial buyers, managing your online reputation is more important than ever. History has taught us that if you are not managing what people see, your unhappy customers are all too happy to go to Google, Yelp and the CFPB and damage your reputation and create endless headaches. SocialSurvey turns this problem into a big opportunity and will spark a digital transformation for your company. If you want to learn how to get control of your online reputation, email SocialSurvey."
In personnel news, congrats to Steve Roberts! Utah's Veritas Funding announced Steve is its new president, and will oversee all aspects of sales and fulfillment at the company. Steve Roberts has been part of the Veritas Executive Team since 2013, serving most recently as the company's VP of Sales. Veritas Funding is a FNMA and FHLMC direct seller/servicer and a GNMA issuer, and it funded nearly $1.7 billion in residential loans in 2016.
Posse saddles up to help children Russell Libby describes his golden palomino horse, Sonny, as the calmest, sweetest guy and his best friend for nearly two decades. Sonny is the reason Libby and his wife, Laura,...
Kris Kringle to support library programs The Moorpark Friends of the Library is offering the second annual Letter from Santa fundraiser. For a $25 donation to the Moorpark Friends of the Library, children will receive a...
Oakmont welcomes new executive director Ronda Wilkin, certified dementia practitioner and a senior living executive, joins Oakmont of Moorpark with more than three decades of experience in health and human services. During her 15 years...
Two known MS-13 gang members from Texas were charged this week with murdering a woman and kidnapping with the intent to sexually abuse another victim.
Diego Hernandez-Rivera, 18, and Miguel Alvarez-Flores, 22, were arrested Monday and charged the next day for aggravated kidnapping. On Wednesday, they were charged with murder in a separated case where an unidentified woman's body was found in west Houston.
WOUNDED OFFICERS: Police shooter linked to criminal Houston gang called 52 Hoovers
In the other case the pair allegedly kidnapped the male victim around Feb. 2 with the intent to inflict bodily injury, sexually abuse and terrorize him, according to court documents.
About two weeks later, the body of a woman identified in court records only as "Genesis" was found in west Houston, lying along the curb at the 9900 block of Sharpcrest Street.
She died from multiple gunshot wounds to the head, neck and torso, according to the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. Investigators believe she was shot by Hernandez-Rivera and Alvarez-Flores at another location and dumped on Sharpcrest.
TRAGIC: Teen arrested in killing of 8-year-old girl
Both suspects, identified in court records as MS-13 gang members, are at the Harris County jail and each faces a $150,000 bail for murder and a $100,000 bail for aggravated kidnapping.
The MS-13 gang, also known as the Mara Salvatrucha, has roots in El Salvador and a violent record in numerous countries.
The MS-13 first reached into the United States in the 1980s and has become one of the best known international street gangs in the world.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Mar 3, 2017) - Maxtech Ventures Inc. (CSE:MVT)(MVT.CN)(OTC PINK:MTEHF)(FRANKFURT:M1N) ("Maxtech" or the "Company") is pleased to report that John Harper B. Sc., P. Geo. will be supervising the regional exploration programs.
Peter Wilson CEO said, "The market for manganese is three fold, in fertilizer it is an essential nutrient in photo synthesis creating greener crops, for steel production in the creation of alloys and of course in high-grade form it is becoming more prevalent in the battery market. Maxtech is well positioned to increase its licence holdings as it conducts these regional exploration programs."
Prospecting and mapping, combined with systematic geochemical soil surveys, and ground based geophysical surveys will be performed to identify and develop manganese mineralization and its trends. There are two styles of manganese mineralization and each method requires different techniques to explore and develop the resource. Mineralization occurs as local cobbles and clasts within the colluvium and saprolite horizons above weathered hydrothermal pyrolusite bearing veins and the hydrothermal veins themselves.
The current exploration program is designed to test the character and expand the size of colluvium showings that have been identified on the property. Close control for the dimensions and grade will be accomplished utilizing techniques including hand dug pits, mobile auger drills and trenching with backhoes.
Maxtech's green field exploration strategy for areas with extensive forest cover will be inexpensive, quick and effective while having the least surface disturbance of any exploration method. The hydrothermal vein mineralization is hosted beneath the surficial, weathered horizons. Development of these showings will require further geophysical surveys, both ground and airborne based. Follow up by traditional core drilling is expected as exploration advances.
The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. John Harper B.Sc., P. Geo. who is a Qualified Person with respect to Maxtech's manganese project as defined under National Instrument 43-101.
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The Company also announces that pursuant to the Company's Stock Option Plan it is issuing 1,500,000 incentive stock options at an exercise price of $0.47 cents per share to certain officers, directors and consultants. In accordance with the Company's Stock Option Plan, the options granted are exercisable for up to five years from the issue date.
About Maxtech Ventures Inc.
Maxtech Ventures Inc. is a Canadian based diversified industries corporation with gold and manganese mineral properties. Its focus is on mining and the products that are derived therefrom.
Further information about the Company is available on www.SEDAR.com under the Company's profile.
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Certain statements contained in this release may constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively "forward-looking information") as those terms are used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and similar Canadian laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated", "anticipates" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to the business of the Company, the Property, financing and certain corporate changes. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.
Energy storage can learn a lot from ecologyand that's what one engineer plans to do with her early career award grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Batteries have a lot in common with fish. And flocks of birds. And maybe even herds of caribou and tundra landscapes.
Lucia Gauchia sees the connection. She has a dual appointment in electrical engineering and mechanical engineering as an assistant professor at Michigan Technological University. As the US looks to update its electrical grid infrastructure, Gauchia plans to help by learning more about how ecological systems can inspire better designs and scalability.
For her creative and in-depth interdisciplinary work, she earned a prestigious CAREER Award from NSF. The grant is $500,000 that covers five years of research.
The Secret Lives of Batteries
When batteries drain, people say they're dead. Recharging them is not the only way to bring them back to life: Gauchia studies what's called a battery's second life, when it is repurposed for a new use.
"There is a life cycle for batteries that includes different applications and tasks," she says. "But everything was designed and tested for the first life, even if they end up having multiple lives."
Batteries are designed for a single use, but they can be reused and repackaged to have multiple lives scaling up from a single cell to packs to modules.
Packs and Populations
The challenge in Gauchia's research is that current battery testing methods are insufficient for measuring their multi-life effectiveness. Assessments tend to be linear with set conditions that do not reflect how people actually use batteries and the cold, heat, moisture and other conditions they might be subjected to. Additionally, battery systems scale: one battery goes into a module of battery units and modules make up packs.
"The only common thread I saw was that they have a lot in common with ecological systems," Gauchia says, explaining that testing a battery is like studying a fish in a pond. "In engineering, we take the fish out of the pond and expect to be able to tell how it's going to live in the pond; ecologists do not extract their subjects from their environment."
So, she turned to systems designs and population analyses that quantify individuals, groups and their interactions with their environment. Gauchia figured if the techniques can be applied to animals and plants, then they could be replicated for batteries and energy storage.
Lucia Gauchia finds inspiration for better battery technology in ecology.
Testing and Theorizing
Gauchia plans to test a number of batteries in first and second life stages under a variety of conditions. She will then use Bayesian networks to inform ecology-based methods to discern patterns in the data; with those patterns she can do cross-level testing to see what holds true from batteries to packs to modules. The analyses should help better predict when a battery might fail in any of its life stages.
"Energy storage has become a very important component of the national conversation about renewable energy, the next generation of utility-scale power systems, and the smart grid," says Dan Fuhrmann, the chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Michigan Tech, adding that a better understanding of batteries is "critical to the thoughtful integration of more and more energy storage devices in the mix of technologies enjoyed by modern society.
Bill Predebon, the chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics, agrees that Gauchia's research will enhance Michigan Tech's energy portfolio.
"A unique aspect of her research," he says, "is using ecological tools from the field of ecology to better understand battery aging and in turn obtain longer battery life, which has applications spanning electric vehicles to power units for emergency situations such as Hurricane Sandy."
Training the Next Generation
Gauchia's batteries and data will also be used in her undergraduate classes; students will be able to work hands-on and through online courses to run short-term tests that mirror Gauchia's own long-term ones. During the summer, she plans to mentor young Hispanic women through the MICUP program that brings students from community colleges in downstate Michigan to Houghton for six-week internships.
"Batteries are interesting systems and they have peculiar behaviorand you just don't believe that until you test them yourself," Gauchia says, adding that inspiring the next generation of researchers is key for battery tech's future. "There are simply not enough battery storage classes being offered across the nation."
One battery pack at time, Gauchia plans to change that. By connecting students, ecology and energy storage, she can take the promise of battery technology and help ensure that batteries have a stable and reliable future with many productive lives.
Grants and Funding NSF CAREER Award, vehicle battery data from General Motors, solar battery data from Power New Mexico
Michigan Technological University is a public research university founded in 1885 in Houghton, Michigan, and is home to more than 7,000 students from 55 countries around the world. Consistently ranked among the best universities in the country for return on investment, Michigans flagship technological university offers more than 120 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science and technology, engineering, computing, forestry, business and economics, health professions, humanities, mathematics, social sciences, and the arts. The rural campus is situated just miles from Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Musician Aaron Carter's twin sister, Angel Carter ConradShe has broken her silence about the death of her brother, with whom she had a turbulent relationship in the last years of his life. The former child singer was found dead at his home
Les emplois a Rennes sont abondants et varies. Il y a quelque chose pour tout le monde. Que vous soyez a la recherche dun emploi []
LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / March 3, 2017 / Cannabis business, solar power canopies, financial victimization, a President comes of age; this week on MoneyTV with Donald Baillargeon. MoneyTV is the internationally syndicated television program all about money and what makes it happen, (http://www.moneytv.net), featuring informative interviews with company CEOs, providing insights into their operations and outlooks for their futures.
Free information packages from the featured companies can be requested by sending an email to info@moneytv.net.
The television program can also be viewed online immediately at www.moneytv.net.
Featured companies on this week's program include:
TKO Farms, Inc. is planting and managing hardwood and citrus tree plantations in Belize.
Zerez Holdings (OTC PINK: ZRZH) VP Don Smith announced additional greenhouse sales and news about manufacturing.
XsunX, Inc. (OTC PINK: XSNX) CEO Tom Djokovich talked about the burgeoning solar canopy market.
Players Network (PNTV) Board Member Brett Pojunis announced the company's marijuanaincubator.net acquisition.
Singlepoint, Inc. (OTC PINK: SING) CEO Greg Lambrecht discussed acquisition and fundraising activity.
The Advocacy Network Founder Karl Schilling spoke of the many forms of financial victimization.
A complete menu of TV listings is available at the MoneyTV web site, http://www.moneytv.net.
MoneyTV Executive Producer and Anchor Donald Baillargeon is also the host of MoneyRap Radio, http://www.moneyrap.com and the television program Crowdfund Television, http://www.crowdfundtelevision.com.
MoneyTV with Donald Baillargeon television program, Copyright MMXVII, all rights reserved. MoneyTV does not provide an analysis of companies' financial positions and is not soliciting to purchase or sell securities of the companies, nor are we offering a recommendation of featured companies or their stocks. Information discussed herein has been provided by the companies and should be verified independently with the companies and a securities analyst. MoneyTV provides companies a 3 to 4 month corporate profile with multiple appearances for a cash fee of $11,995.00 to $17,250.00, does not accept company stock as payment for services, does not hold any positions, options or warrants in featured companies. The information herein is not an endorsement by Donald Baillargeon, the producer, publisher or parent company of MoneyTV.
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Contact:
Donald Baillargeon
info@moneytv.net
949 388 5267
SOURCE: MoneyTV
Jeff Sessions
Officials from the State Department and Heritage Foundation provided additional clarity Thursday about a July event at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland where then-Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama held the first of two conversations with Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
News of the discussions with Kislyak sparked a Wednesday night firestorm that spilled into Thursday. A number of Democratic politicians called for Sessions, now the attorney general, to resign, while others, including prominent Republicans, have called for him to recuse himself from any investigation involving President Donald Trump's ties to Russia or the country's influence in the 2016 presidential election.
A Justice Department official said both instances were in his capacity as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and not as a surrogate for Trump.
The Cleveland event, the "Global Partners in Diplomacy" conference, was attended by many foreign ambassadors to the US. A Cleveland Plain Dealer story from July 20 reported 80 ambassadors were invited to the event's reception, during which Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, gave an address.
As a State Department spokesperson told Business Insider in an email, the State Department has invited foreign ambassadors to both the DNC and RNC "as observers of our democratic process" since the 1980s. The State Department manages invitations, logistics, and security, and ambassadors are responsible for their own expenses, including flight and hotel accomodations. The convention committees develop the programming the ambassadors participate in or attend.
In this case, the Heritage Foundation was one of the organizations that sponsored the Global Partners in Diplomacy conference, the one at which multiple news outlets reported Sessions and Kislyak spoke following an address Sessions gave to attendees. The State Department was unable to confirm which dignitaries were in attendance at both the RNC and corresponding DNC events, or whether Kislyak attended a corresponding DNC event, which would've occurred following the initial WikiLeaks dump of hacked Democratic National Committee emails.
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A spokesperson for the Heritage Foundation told Business Insider in an email that Sessions provided a keynote address at a defense and national-security luncheon attended by roughly 100 individuals. The spokesperson said, "I believe he was speaking as a senator on Armed Services" during his address, not as a Trump campaign surrogate.
As The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday, a spokesperson for Sessions said the appearance was in his capacity as a senator and not as a campaign official. The spokesperson added that Sessions was approached following the speech by several ambassadors, including Kislyak, with whom he held a "short and informal" conversation.
But Politico reported Thursday that Sessions was clearly identified as a top Trump adviser for his speech before the dignitaries at the Cleveland convention.
Sergey Kislyak
The second conversation between Sessions and Kislyak reportedly took place in September at the senator's office, according to The Washington Post. US investigators examined the conversations, the Journal reported, as part of an investigation into communications between Trump's campaign operatives and Russian officials.
During his Senate confirmation hearing, Sessions did not mention the pair of discussions in an exchange with Democratic Sen. Al Franken of Minnesota. Franken did not ask Sessions whether he specifically spoke with Russian operatives, but Sessions, in answering an unrelated question, said he did not have any communications with "the Russians."
"If there is any evidence that anyone affiliated with the Trump campaign communicated with the Russian government in the course of this campaign, what will you do?" Franken asked.
"Sen. Franken, I'm not aware of any of those activities," Sessions responded. "I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians, and I'm unable to comment on it."
Sessions' spokesperson, Sarah Isgur Flores, said there "was absolutely nothing misleading" about Sessions' answer, even though he did not disclose his conversations with Kislyak.
Sessions' allies have also insisted he did not mislead the committee because he did not believe that those conversations, held in his capacity, they said, as a senior Armed Services Committee member, were relevant to the question. Opponents say Sessions may have perjured himself by not mentioning those two conversations with Kislyak.
Kislyak was also the person with whom former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn was found to have communicated with both before the election and during the transition period, leading to Flynn's resignation as national security adviser after Trump said Flynn misled Vice President Mike Pence regarding the content of that communication.
Speaking to NBC News Thursday, Sessions said he did not meet " with any Russians at any time to discuss any political campaign, and those remarks are unbelievable to me and are false."
"And I don't have anything else to say about that," he added.
The attorney general also said he would recuse himself "whenever it's appropriate."
"There's no doubt about that," he said.
Elsewhere Thursday, Trump addressed the string of news stories about Sessions' conversations with Kislyak, saying he "wasn't aware" his attorney general had spoken with Kislyak during the campaign. But, Trump said he believed Sessions testified truthfully during his Senate confirmation hearing.
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New Melones from Table Mountain Trail photo by Sabrina Ambler View Photos
The Bureau of Reclamation announces the spring interpretive programs at New Melones Lake, with the first trek (hike) beginning tomorrow.
Park Ranger Mike McGraw was Fridays KVML Newsmaker of the Day.
All activities are free and suitable for all ages; most do not require reservations. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and weather appropriate clothing. A water bottle and sunscreen are also recommended. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Table Mountain Trek
Saturday, March 4, 10 a.m.
Table Mountain
What will all the winter rains reveal on top of Table Mountain? Will a kaleidoscope of flowers emerge and the areas vernal pools be replenished? Join Park Ranger Mike and explore the unique habitat and geology of Table Mountain. This is a challenging 3 mile hike with a mile series of steep, rocky switchbacks that lead to the top for grand views of New Melones Lake and the surrounding area. Good hiking shoes, water and a snack are essential. We will meet at the corner of Shell and Rawhide Roads at 10 a.m.
Mountain Biking in the Motherlode
Saturday, March 11, 6 p.m.
New Melones Lake Visitor Center
Join Sonora Cyclery and Reclamation for a special evening presentation exploring the world of mountain biking. Learn what preparation is needed for a ride and find out where in the Motherlode you can go to take part in this fun, energetic sport; including the extensive mountain biking trail system at New Melones Lake.
We will meet at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center at 6 p.m. and all experience levels are invited to attend to learn more!
Fire to Flowers
Saturday, March 18, 10 a.m.
Glory Hole Recreation Area
During the summer of 2015, a fire took place in the Glory Hole Recreation Area, just north of the Buck Brush Loop Trail. The fire scorched a dry grassland area in and around oak woodland, along Angels Creek. From that destruction came rebirth. Join Park Ranger Sam to discover the floral display that often follows a fire and the unique ecology of the Chaparral ecosystem along the Buck Brush Trail. This is an easy to moderate, 1 mile, round-trip hike. Please bring water and snacks and be sure to wear shoes appropriate for hiking. We will meet at the Glory Hole Entrance Station at 10 a.m. and caravan to the Buck Brush Loop Trailhead. Participants will be issued a free parking pass for the duration of the event.
If These Rocks Could Talk!
Sunday, April 2, 10 a.m.
Natural Bridges
The Motherlodes geology is a source of fascination. One of the more curious geological features of the area is Natural Bridges. Take a hike with Park Ranger Josh and learn how water and time has shaped the landscape. Along the trail, learn a bit about the local flora and fauna. This is a moderate to strenuous, 2-mile, roundtrip hike. Participants may return uphill on their own. Please bring water and snacks and be sure to wear shoes appropriate for hiking. We will meet at the Natural Bridges Trailhead parking lot off of Parrotts Ferry Road at 10 a.m. Dogs are not allowed on the Natural Bridges trail.
A Night with Jupiter
Friday, April 7, 7 p.m.
Glory Hole Recreation Area
Join us when Jupiter, our solar systems largest planet, will be at its closest approach to the Earth with its surface fully illuminated by the sun. Park Rangers Diana and Ryan will help visitors uncover what the night can reveal. Join them and learn how to identify some of the more prominent constellations and stars in the sky. Telescopes will be on hand. Please dress warmly and bring a flashlight. We will meet at the Amphitheater inside Ironhorse Campground of the Glory Hole Recreation Area at 7 p.m. As with all programs, please call 209-536-9094 ext. 233 if poor weather is forecast.
Heron Point Hike
Saturday, April 8, 10 a.m.
Tuttletown Recreation Area
The birds and the bees will be busy along Heron Point Trail this spring. Enjoy a leisurely 3 mile hike with Park Ranger Pat and discover what nature has to offer on a fresh spring day. We will meet at the Tuttletown Entrance Station at 10 a.m. and caravan down to the Heron Point trailhead. Participants will be issued a parking pass for the duration of the event.
The Stars Over New Melones Lake
Saturday, April 22, 7:30 p.m.
Tuttletown Recreation Area
The night sky will be active with the Lyrids Meteor Shower underway. Join park rangers and observe the constellations, stars and other heavenly bodies above New Melones Lake. Telescopes will be on hand. Please dress warmly and bring a flashlight. We will meet at the Tuttletown Entrance Station at 7:30 p.m. and caravan to the Eagle Point Picnic Area. Please call 209-536-9094 ext. 233 if poor weather is forecast.
Chaparral Foray
Saturday, April 29, 9 a.m.
Parrotts Ferry Bridge
Where would you want to hike on a spring morning? Californias distinctive Chaparral ecosystem is a great place to start! Hike through a forest of shrubs and learn about this fire and drought adapted plant community. Along the way, catch a glimpse of history by viewing what remains of the Duchess Gold Mine. This is a strenuous 3 mile loop hike along a section of Table Mountain. Please bring plenty of water and sturdy hiking boots. We will meet at the parking lot on the Calaveras County side of the Parrotts Ferry Bridge at 10 a.m. Please call 209-536-9094 ext. 233 if additional directions are needed.
Kayaking Excursion
Sunday, May 7, 10 a.m.
New Melones Lake Visitor Center
Experience the beauty of New Melones Lake from a unique perspective on this ranger-led paddling tour. The journey begins at the Mark Twain Recreation Area and then proceeds up the Stanislaus River Canyon toward Parrotts Ferry. Along the way, park rangers will discuss the flora, fauna, geological formations and cultural history of the area. This outing is open to experienced swimmers with their own kayak or other nonmotorized boat. Expect to be out for four hours. Participants need to bring their own boat, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (properly fitted and serviceable), paddles, sunscreen, hat, water and lunch. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Please contact Park Ranger Josh at 209-536-9094 ext. 236 to reserve your place at this event. We will meet at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center at 10 a.m.
An Evening with Bees
Saturday, May 20, 7 p.m.
New Melones Lake Visitor Center
Discover whats abuzz with park ranger and bee aficionado Sam. Learn the life history of arguably natures most beneficial insect, the honey bee. Also, become familiar with some of the bees close relatives in our region. The program begins at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center at 7 p.m. Bee a part of the evenings festivities.
New Melones Lake Water Education Program
Available Upon Request
A water education program has been developed at New Melones. This new interdisciplinary learning experience is designed for students in grades 4 and 5. The program integrates the natural resources of New Melones Lake with California curriculum standards. School classes can join a Park Ranger to learn about the importance of water in their lives. In addition to the on-site learning experience, a teacher packet is available with logistical information and pre, post, and on-site visit activities. Park Rangers are also available to conduct classroom visits. For more details on this free program, please contact Ranger Mike McGraw at 209-536-9094 ext. 233 or mmcgraw@usbr.gov.
Mussel Outreach Programs
Available Upon Request
They are only about the size of a thumbnail yet can overwhelm aquatic environments by their sheer numbers. Invasive Quagga and Zebra mussels pose one of the greatest threats to New Melones Lake, disrupting ecosystems, impeding dam operations and impacting water recreation, especially boating and fishing. Throughout the United States, lakes and rivers have forever been altered by these tiny creatures. Although no invasive mussels are currently present in New Melones Lake, keeping the lake mussel-free is a challenge we all share as a community. Park Rangers will be attending events throughout the year to provide outreach and education to the public free of charge. If you would like a Park Ranger to visit a school, speak to students, or attend a civic function or other occasion to provide outreach, please contact Natural Resource Biologist Sam Sosa at 209-536-9094 ext. 221 or ssosa@usbr.gov.
For general information about a program, directions, or the status of a program if inclement weather is forecast, please contact Ranger Mike at 209-536-9094 ext. 233.
Ranger-led hikes tie into the Department of the Interiors Lets Move Outside initiative ( www.letsmove.gov/lets-move-outside ), which was created to encourage children and their families to enjoy outdoor activities, which abound in every city, town and community.
The New Melones Lake Visitor Center and Museum is managed by Reclamations Central California Area Office and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information on activities, directions, pet restrictions or other questions, please call 209-536-9543 (TTY 800-877-8339) or visit the New Melones Lake website at http://www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/newmelones/index.html .
The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML.
Sonora, CA California Attorney General Xavier Becerra took action on behalf of the state in opposition to President Donald Trumps decision to rescind rules on bathrooms for transgender students.
The earlier federal protections put in place by the Obama Administration allowed transgender students to use bathrooms that correspond with their gender identity. Becerra says he has filed a friend of the court briefing in the United States Supreme Court, along with 18 other state Attorney Generals, in support of transgender rights.
Becerra states, The federal government took a troubling step backward last week in the ongoing fight to protect students from gender identity discrimination. I urge the court to strike down ignorant and degrading policies that perpetuate fear and intolerance.
A two page letter from the Trump Administration, following the move to reverse course, claimed that the earlier directive from the Obama Administration should be disregarded because it lacked extensive legal analysis and did not go through a public vetting process. The letter notes that it has also drawn lawsuits.
Randy Hanvelt - Conservationist Of The Year View Photos
Napa, CA A Tuolumne County Supervisor was recognized by a leading statewide forestry organization.
The California Forestry Association is a trade group comprised of forest owners, timber product companies and forestry professionals. The group strives to ensure that the forest is a significant contributor to both the states environmental and economic well-being. The group states that it promotes responsible stewardship through sound policies and conservation practices. The organization serves as a central voice for the states forest resource companies and communities. At its annual banquet last night at the Black Stallion Winery in Napa, the organization honored District Two Tuolumne County Supervisor Randy Hanvelt with the prestigious Conservationist of the Year award.
We chose Randy as Conservationist of the Year because of everything that he has done for his county on the tree mortality issue, says Lindsay Vanlaningham, spokesperson for the association. He was really out in front of everybody else, and for that we felt he really deserved it.
Hanvelt was also asked to moderate a biomass panel discussion held earlier in the day in Napa.
Hanvelt has been a member of the Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors since 2010.
FILE - In this Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2017, file photo, House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., meets with reporters on Capitol Hill in Washington before President Donald Trump's speech to the nation. Ryan is scheduled to visit Democratic-leaning Rhode Island. Ryan's office said he will be in the state Thursday to meet with supporters and attend several events. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) Around 200 people chanted "Coward!" and booed as Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan attended an event in the heavily Democratic state.
A strong police presence kept the crowd across the street from a Providence office building, where Ryan was meeting Thursday with Year Up, a nonprofit career training organization.
Ryan was not seen entering the building, but a motorcade carrying him pulled into an alley, where there's a back entrance, away from protesters.
"We want him to hear loud and clear that his values are Wall Street values, they're not Rhode Island values," said Georgia Hollister Isman, the state director of Rhode Island Working Families. "We're also here in solidarity with our friends in Wisconsin who've been trying for months to get a town hall meeting with him."
Ryan spokesman Zack Roday said "it is unfortunate protesters chose to demonstrate at Year Up," where Ryan toured the facilities and took questions from students.
A Republican state lawmaker called the protests "shameful" and said they could hurt the tiny state's chances of fostering better relations with the White House.
The demonstrators said they were protesting the policies of Republicans including Ryan and President Donald Trump, especially their plans to repeal and replace the 2010 Affordable Care Act. People also carried signs that said, "No Ban No Wall" and "Hey! Wisconsin we found him!"
"No matter where he goes, wherever he takes his radically dangerous Ryan-Trump agenda, the resistance will be there to meet him," said state Rep. Aaron Regunberg, a Providence Democrat, who spoke to the crowd through a megaphone.
The protesters said their ire wasn't aimed at Year Up, which offers low-income young adults six months of intensive career training followed by a six-month internship with one of its corporate partners.
But its board president, Paul Salem, is with a private equity firm whose members have donated to the GOP. Campaign finance records collected by the Center for Responsive Politics show people with Providence Equity Partners gave more than $700,000 to groups associated with the Republican Party and candidates in the 2016 election cycle.
Roday said Ryan also met Thursday with executives from CVS Health, based in Woonsocket.
Kissimmee Police and Fire departments have a message: #BaldIsBrave2017.
Kissimmee police, firefighter to raise money for cancer research
They will participate in a head shaving event
Hair cut during the event will be donated to Share Your Hair
They are partnering with the St. Baldricks Foundation, a volunteer organization that raises money for childhood cancer research. The goal is to show kids they are not alone in the fight against cancer.
Both agency chiefs and another 40 people have already registered to shave their heads this weekend.
Shannon Dore, a corporal with the Kissimmee Police Department is one of the many officials who will be shaving their heads.
With the St. Baldricks Foundation, it allows us to do more for our community, said Dore. It allows us to reach and touch the children that have had childhood cancer and that are suffering from this. We want them to know that even though we respond to their calls that were also here to support them in other ways.
The event will be held from 4-8 p.m., Saturday, March 4, at 3 Sisters Speakeasy in Kissimmee.
Any hair cut during the shaving event will be donated to Share Your Hair, a non-profit that provides custom made prosthetic hair pieces.
For more information about the event or to make a donation, click here.
Brazilian state-run integrated energy player Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. or Petrobras PBR recently entered into an asset sale agreement with France-based TOTAL S.A. TOT.
Per the deal, Petrobras will sell its upstream and downstream assets for $2.2 billion. The company will receive cash, carry and contingent payments as consideration. Petrobras will receive $1.6 billion in cash initially in 60 days and the remaining amount will be paid later.
Deal Details
On the upstream front, TOTAL will acquire stakes in the Lapa and Lara offshore prospects in the Santos Basin. The company will scoop up 35% of interest in the Lapa field, which was put into production a couple of months back. Petrobras will hold 10% stake in Lapa. The remaining stake in Lapa is held by Royal Dutch Shell RDS.A and Repsol SA REPYY. TOTAL will also acquire 22.5% stake in Lara field which is still under development. Petrobras will retain operation of the assets in Lara field holding 42.5% stake.
On the downstream end, TOTAL will acquire 50% interest in a pair of thermal co-generation plants in the Bahia area and a re-gasification unit in the LNG terminal. The agreement also includes pipeline transport capacity to supply gas to the power plants.
The companies will also evaluate exploration potential in other areas of Brazil and will jointly work on the development of new technologies.
Deal Motives
The deal will enable TOTAL to augur its footprint in Brazil which offers access to low cost sustainable resources. Thus, the company is likely to cut down on costs and focus on business development.
The sale of assets is part of Petrobras divestiture program of 20152018. The company plans to sell assets worth $35 billion over the said time frame. These divestment plans are in sync with the companys strategy to reduce its debt and reinstate its investment grade rating and financial health. It is expected that the deal will have a positive impact on Petrobras as it mitigates the leverage and capex of the company along with presenting it with opportunities for future associations and partnerships with TOTAL.
Story continues
Zacks Rank
Headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, Petrobras is an integrated energy firm engaged in the exploration, refining, marketing, transporting, and distribution and biofuels segments. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell).
The company underperformed the Zacks categorized Oil & Gas Emerging Markets Integrated industry over the last three years. During the aforesaid period, shares of Petrobras declined 3.5% while the broader industry gained around 16%.
You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras (PBR): Free Stock Analysis Report
TotalFinaElf, S.A. (TOT): Free Stock Analysis Report
Royal Dutch Shell PLC (RDS.A): Free Stock Analysis Report
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March 3 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories on the New York Times business pages. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.
- Federal agents raided three Caterpillar buildings near its Illinois headquarters on Thursday, company and law enforcement officials said, in an escalation of an inquiry into the heavy equipment manufacturer's offshore tax practices. http://nyti.ms/2mS3Pak
- The large Chinese online retailer JD.com announced on Thursday that it would spin off its finance business for $2.1 billion, setting the stage for the group's expansion in the fast-growing and competitive market. http://nyti.ms/2mRXlse
- Over the last three years, Apple's iPads and Mac notebooks which accounted for about half of the mobile devices shipped to schools in the United States in 2013 have steadily lost ground to Chromebooks, inexpensive laptops that run on Google's Chrome operating system and are produced by Samsung, and other computer makers. http://nyti.ms/2mS3WCM
- Anheuser-Busch InBev's flair for cutting costs is being blunted by complexity. The megabrewer now expects annual savings from its merger with SABMiller to reach $2.8 billion, 14 percent more than an earlier estimate. Yet the upgrade is significantly smaller than with previous purchases. http://nyti.ms/2mRZunE
- Ben Martin, who as a Time magazine senior photographer immortalized Richard M. Nixon's haggard 5 o' clock shadow and John Kennedy's grieving widow and children evocative images that defined the 1960s died on Feb. 10 at his home. http://nyti.ms/2mSe7HG (Compiled by Vishal Sridhar in Bengaluru)
The Rotary Club of Plainview is proud to honor Layne Mustian as its student of the month for March 2017. Layne is the daughter of Joe and Dawn Mustian of Plainview, Texas. She is a senior at Plainview High School. She is a member of the PHS volleyball team, National Honor Society, and FFA where she has served as advisor and secretary. She was also a member of the PHS choir for one year. She has received the Plainview FFA Green-Hand Award as well as the Merit P Award all four years of high school. Layne has been active in service projects such as Meals on Wheels, Snack Pak for Kids, Dress a Live Doll, as well as playing bingo at the VA hospital, collecting shoes for an orphanage in Guatemala, making dresses for girls in Africa and blankets for veterans in nursing homes, and wrapping presents for the Rainbow Room.
Layne has been very active in the Hale County 4-H for nine years, participating in the Plainview Club, Horse Club, County Council and District Two Council. During this time, she has served as first vice-president, second vice-president, third vice-president, parliamentarian, photographer, county council delegate, and public relations chair. She has received the organizations highest honor, the 4-H Gold Star award, as well as the Silver Star award, Farm Bureau Leadership Award, 4-H Leadership Clover, and the Williams Judging Award in the senior, intermediate and junior divisions. Layne said her favorite activity has been her participation in the Hale County Meat Judging Team for the past six years, during which time she has developed important leadership skills. Over the past few years, I have realized that much of being a leader is knowing how to humble yourself when youre wrong, listening to others opinions, and accepting valuable advice from elders. Layne is excited to be Rotarys Student of the Month, as her grandfathers were both Rotarians in Amarillo and Graham. After graduation, she plans to attend Texas A&M to major in Agriculture Communications to prepare for a job as a public communications coordinator for a large meats cooperative or corporation. More for you SAPD: Man killed outside a S.A. church, two suspects on the run
President Trump praised merit-based immigration Friday as he endorsed an Australian authors latest book, which criticizes the immigration system under the Obama administration.
The president tweeted Friday morning, Nick Adams new book, Green Card Warrior, is a must read. The merit-based system is the way to go. Canada, Australia! @foxandfriends
In Adams book, subtitled My Quest for Legal Immigration in an Illegals System, he outlines his efforts to obtain a green card in what he called the enormous difficulty of legal immigration with the red-carpet welcome of illegal immigration.
Adams, a conservative columnist and commentator, has appeared on Fox, and is quoted several times on the right-wing news site Breitbart. He founded a nonprofit organization called Foundation for Liberty and American Greatness. He described the organization on his website as a battle tank instead of a think tank, seeking to counter the army of anti-American activists in schools, the media and other mainstream cultural institutions.
Trump had praised Adams native Australia and Canada in his first address to Congress because both countries immigration policies give preference to skilled workers over family members of naturalized citizens.
Under President Barack Obamas Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, 750,000 immigrants brought to the United States as children, including around 200,000 in California, are temporarily shielded from deportation.
DACA remains in tact under Trump, who plans to build a wall across the southern border with Mexico. The president signed a Jan. 25 executive order that sought to withhold funds from sanctuary jurisdictions and broadened the abilities of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to target unauthorized immigrants at its discretion.
Trump has apparently found time to read as president after telling the Washington Post during his presidential campaign that he was too busy to do so.
As a presumptive Republican nominee, Trump said, I never have (time to read). Im always busy doing a lot. Now Im more busy, I guess than ever before.
Past coverage by The Chronicle include:
Merit-based immigration could help tech firms but hurt families
Farewell to the reader in chief
Jenna Lyons is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jlyons@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JennaJourno
Wal-Mart's brand is founded on the idea of slashing prices, but it can't do so without ruffling a few feathers.
Reuters is reporting that Wal-Mart is once again beating the drums of price war against some of its main competitors, including Aldi and Kroger.
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Disney Features Animation artist Paul Briggs, a San Antonio native, is creating a series of limited edition concert posters with Gruene Hall.
He recently unveiled the first, for the sold-out Loretta Lynn concerts today and Saturday. Briggs' illustration gives the queen of country music the full Disney princess treatment, with a formal gown that seems to grow out of the Hill Country flora in front of the historic dancehall.
Related: Artist drew on personal experience for 'Big Hero 6' scene
Briggs has worked on films such as "Frozen," "Big Hero 6" and the newly minted Oscar winner "Zootopia" in his 21-year career with Disney. In an email, he said he contacted Gruene Hall -- where he had his wedding reception -- about the project.
Briggs has "always loved my home state," he said. "I really wanted to promote both Texas and Gruene Hall.'
Briggs said he will be at tonight's concert to sign copies of the poster for Lynn and Gruene Hall.
Rand Paul
Sen. Rand Paul on Thursday suggested he was getting tired of the House Republican process for repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act, the healthcare law better known as Obamacare.
In a series of tweets, the Republican senator from Kentucky said the House GOP had hidden its plan from other lawmakers and the public. He said the secretive nature was "unacceptable."
"I have been told that the House Obamacare bill is under lock & key, in a secure location, & not available for me or the public to view," Paul tweeted. "This is unacceptable. This is the biggest issue before Congress and the American people right now."
House GOP leadership has begun to develop a plan, a draft of which leaked Friday, but reports have indicated that many lawmakers have not been privy to the development.
Paul has introduced his own version of a replacement and has joined with other conservative senators, such as Ted Cruz of Texas and Mike Lee of Utah, in calling for a total repeal of the ACA.
Paul said the House plan did not go far enough in repeal.
"What is the House leadership trying to hide?" Paul said. "My guess is, they are trying to hide their 'Obamacare Lite' approach. Renaming and keeping parts of Obamacare, new entitlements and extending medicaid expansion are not the #FullRepeal we promised."
Some House conservatives, including members of the Freedom Caucus, have also come out in favor of a full repeal of the law rather than some form of compromise. The disagreement has led to a slowdown in the repeal-and-replace process.
Paul said he wanted the process from House leadership to be more transparent.
"I call on them to make this process transparent and to let the sunshine in," Paul concluded. "Today."
Here is his full tweetstorm:
I have been told that the House Obamacare bill is under lock & key, in a secure location, & not available for me or the public to view. Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 2, 2017
@RandPaul This is unacceptable. This is the biggest issue before Congress and the American people right now. Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 2, 2017
@RandPaul What is the House leadership trying to hide? My guess is, they are trying to hide their "Obamacare Lite" approach. Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 2, 2017
@RandPaul Renaming and keeping parts of Obamacare, new entitlements and extending medicaid expansion are not the #FullRepeal we promised Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 2, 2017
@RandPaul House and Senate passed repeal in 2015. They should keep their promises and bring them up again for a vote now Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 2, 2017
@RandPaul I demand the House release the text of the bill. Every elected official & every American deserve to know what they're trying to do Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 2, 2017
@RandPaul I will not vote for Obamacare Lite nor will many of my colleagues. We will keep our word. I call on House leaders to do the same Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 2, 2017
@RandPaul And I call on them to make this process transparent and to let the sunshine in. Today. Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 2, 2017
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'Logan' Ben Rothstein/Twentieth Century Fox 'A United Kingdom' Fox Searchlight Pictures 'The Shack' 'Table 19' Fox Searchlight Pictures/HONS
Two weeks, two great movies -- and they're both genre films: the horror flick "Get Out" and the comic-book adventure "Logan."
That's a trend moviegoers can get behind. Here's hoping it continues next week with "Kong: Skull Island," a B-movie blown up to monstrous size.
San Antonio native and Hollywood actor Nicholas Gonzalez was just introduced to a new leading lady, one who eclipses any other he's starred opposite: an adorable baby daughter.
The Central High grad and his wife, actress and entrepreneur Kelsey Crane, welcomed their first child Wednesday, "the best day of our lives," Gonzalez wrote on Facebook.
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In the summer of 1979, a small Central Texas resort turned into one of New Braunfels' most popular attractions and over the past 39 years, the goal of the family-owned business is simply to give visitors a water-filled fun time.
The story of Schlitterbahn's creation started with the Henry family when founders Bob and Billye Henry bought Landa Resort in New Braunfels in 1966. For the next 10 years, the family realized their resort guests were most attracted to the water slides they installed.
In response to the water slide demand, the owners continued to develop new rides and slides for guests to enjoy. Then by 1979, the couple opened Schlitterbahn - which is the combination of the German words for slippery (schlitter) and road (bahn).
FUN FACTS: 35 facts about Schlitterbahn you likely didn't know about before
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In the beginning, the resort the Henrys bought was 15 acres and 32 cabins, which grew to 40 acres and over 100 units in the first 10 years. The constant improvement of the park's attractions has been a staple in the Henry family and continues today.
"We lived at the camp so we literally lived the business," said Gary Henry, the eldest son of Bob and Billye Henry. "My mother would answer the reservation line at night and if there was any problem, we would go and fix it. It was a way of life. It was what we did."
Today, Schlitterbahn New Braunfels guests enjoy over 70 acres containing 51 attractions. The park in New Braunfels opens for spring break on Saturday, March 10, and the rest of this year's schedule can be found here.
Click through the gallery above to see the vintage photos of the Landa Resort and Schlitterbahn in their early years and continue clicking to see photos and facts of what we know as Schlitterbahn now.
BIG SPENDER: Developer proposes $446 million water park, resort in Missouri
The Schlitterbahn family was devastated after a 10-year-old boy suffered a fatal neck injury in August 2016 while riding the Verruckt slide, the world's former highest slide in the world reaching a staggering 168 feet high.
"It was a devastating event and devastating to the staff that ran that ride and the park in general," Gary Henry said. "Our focus is on safety every day the way we open the park and check to see everything is operating properly. We don't only rely on our safety, but we also rely on others coming in to double check after us."
Henry says the Schlitterbahn brand is going to continue testing, revisiting and improving all of their attractions to continuously ensure the safety of their customers and employees.
"Whether it's the parking lots or the restrooms or the rides, every aspect has to be looked at to ensure it is as safe as possible," Henry said.
WHAT FUN: Impressive North Texas water park is open and it looks epic
Ed Hubbard has been going to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels for the past 25 years with his entire family each Memorial Day weekend. He says thanks to Schlitterbahn, there is something for every family member to do and no one is bored. He credits Schlitterbahn as the reason why his kids know their extended family.
"There's one particular time that repeats itself every Memorial Day. During the day, everyone goes their own way, but every night around 6:30 and 7 we all meet up for dinner and a prayer circle," Hubbard said. "So it is really the only time of the year when our whole family is together in such an important moment.
"There's no place like Schlitterbahn. No other place would compare."
The concha, a staple of panaderias, is now a piece of art that does more than satisfy a sweet tooth.
Daniel Del Real, who describes himself as a "creative" based in Indianapolis, used the spongy sweet to combat a "right-wing" ideal with his latest piece titled "No Seas Concha."
"The saying 'No Seas Concha' is a Mexican expression that means 'don't be lazy.' It came about because conchas (seashells) just sit on the beach doing nothing sort of like the U.S. version of a couch potato," the artist explained. "The idea elaborated into a political commentary that gives life to the right-wing ideas that undocumented immigrants are somehow government moochers who are lazy and drain the system."
RELATED: Mexican activists spray paint message to President Trump on 'his pinche wall'
The concha is about 5 feet in diameter and housed in the "Herencia" Fine Arts Exhibit at the University of Indianapolis. Del Real said he hired performance artist Jonathan Christian Angulo to further his message by dressing up as a "stereotypical Mexican" to lounge on the concha.
"Guests were able to approach him and join in on the laziness or give him pieces of bread as a symbol of being the government giving him handouts," Del Real added.
RELATED: Kat Von D defends her Latino heritage, opposes border wall with vintage Instagram photo
"No Seas Concha" gained internet fame as a "concha bean bag" when We Are Mitu shared a Facebook photo of it.
"Yes, concha bean bags really exist," the meme said.
The website's Facebook fans reacted in swarms.
RELATED: One-time DACA recipient facing deportation in S.A. released
"Sitting on a concha, eating a concha would become a part of everyday life. I couldn't do this or I'd have to be crane lifted out of my house for emergency gastric bypass after about three months," one person said, followed by another who joked that they'd "probably forget it's a beanbag (and) want to take a bite out of it."
Del Real's "confection" is sculpted from polyurethane foam, polyfill, fleece and knit cotton, so it probably wouldn't taste as good as a panaderia product.
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Van Rensselaer Boulevard will get a makeover this summer, reducing the number of lanes and making more room for bicyclists and pedestrians.
The four-lane road will be revamped to one lane in each direction with a center turning lane. Shoulders will be widened to give pedestrians more room, and dedicated bicycle lanes will be created.
Neighbors have raised concerns the road, with its 55 mph speed limit and lack of sidewalks, has been the scene of frequent accidents and near misses.
In December 2015, Jodey Farrell, 81, was killed while walking to a bus stop. The driver was not speeding, and no charges were filed.
A few weeks before that, a Shaker High School student was killed driving there at 5 a.m. on a Sunday. He lost control of his car, struck a road sign and a tree, and the vehicle burst into flames.
The speed limit will be reduced to 45 mph during construction and remain there afterward, said Sam Zhou, regional director of the state Department of Transportation, who discussed the project at a meeting Thursday of the Capital District Transportation Committee.
"There is a history behind the road," Zhou said. "It is definitely, in a sense, car-centric. We want to make sure the street serves not only vehicular traffic but other modes."
Van Rensselaer Boulevard was built before Interstate 787 and was designed to be a major corridor taking traffic out of the city.
Today, an average of fewer than 8,000 cars a day drive on it. It is, however, home to large apartment complexes like Dutch Village, where Farrell lived, that families with children call home.
Another DOT road project to be done this summer is new pavement, new striping, sidewalks, drainage on Hamburg Street in Rotterdam. New sewers, paid for by the town, will be installed.
The East High Street and Crescent Avenue bridges in Saratoga County also will be replaced. Most of that construction will be done in 2018, but some work is scheduled for late this summer.
Also during the CDTC meeting, its members who represent Capital Region cities, towns and transportation agencies approved delaying dozens of road projects to meet federal guidelines.
Federal transportation aid comes in five-year increments, and the CDTC had previously frontloaded approval for the work in early years, knowing some projects could be delayed. Less spending was then allotted for later years. The Federal Highway Administration required the spending to be balanced yearly with only a little wiggle room.
For the current fiscal year, which began Oct. 1 and ends Sept. 30, the CDTC had approved $86 million in projects, with $67.7 million in revenue. The CDTC reduced that gap to $3.6 million, which fits within the federal guidelines. For the most part, that meant delaying work a few months to bump it into the next fiscal year.
The longest any roadwork got delayed was a year, said CDTC Executive Director Michael Franchini. He described the shift as an accounting matter that won't affect the driving, walking or bike-riding public.
"They probably won't even notice," he said.
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A day after U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer called for U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions' resignation over his contact with the Russian ambassador last year, President Donald Trump sniped back in a tweet Friday that included a photo of the senator and Russian President Vladimir Putin noshing on doughnuts and gas station coffee.
We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite! pic.twitter.com/Ik3yqjHzsA
In a tweet of his own, Schumer shot back that he'd be happy to discuss his 2003 meeting with Putin and Co.
Happily talk re: my contact w Mr. Putin & his associates, took place in '03 in full view of press & public under oath. Would you &your team? https://t.co/yXgw3U8tmQ Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) March 3, 2017
Schumer met with Putin, Lukoil President Vagit Alekperov and Vadim Gluzman, American president of Lukoil, in New York City more than a decade ago when Putin came to visit Lukoil's first New York gas station. (Lukoil is a Russian oil giant)
From that meeting, per the AP:
[caption id="attachment_272757" align="alignleft" width="1024"] Russian President Vladimir Putin, third from left, is greeted by Senator Charles Schumer D-N.Y, right, and Vagit Alekperov president of Lukoil, left, and Vadim Gluzman American president of Lukoil as putin came to visit the first New York gas station of the Russian company Lukoil Friday, Sept. 26, 2003. (AP Photo/Lukoil HO,David Karp)[/caption]
The back-and-forth is the latest between congressional Democrats and the GOP White House.
The Sessions spat flared up when it was reported that the former Republican senator spoke with the Russian ambassador last year. Democrats contended that the contact contradicts Sessions testimony during his confirmation hearing.
Sessions' camp says the contact was made in his capacity as senator and a member of the Armed Services Committee, not as a Trump campaign surrogate.
Sessions has recused himself from any investigations related to the 2016 presidential election, including whether there was Russian interference with the election.
Update: In case you care, Schumer and Putin are eating Krispy Kremes in the photo Trump tweeted, per former Schumer intern Farrell Sklerov:
I was at this event in 2003 as an intern with @stuloeser. Putin stopped by the 1st NYC Lukoil opening and tried a @krispykreme. Explained! https://t.co/TDBggPJjqV Farrell Sklerov (@fsklerov) March 3, 2017
Update x2: A more pertinent update. White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders spoke aboard Air Force One Friday about whether the president believes Sessions' recusal is enough. Here's what she said, per the press pool:
Please explain to me how volunteers meeting at a conference where nearly 80 ambassadors attended is a story. I guess it's kind of lost on me where that would be newsworthy in any capacity. I mean Chuck Schumer sitting and having drinks with Putin and that's not a news story, but apparently a volunteer for a campaign bumping into one at a conference where there's again dozens of other ambassadors is newsworthy.
Update x3: Schumer ain't alone if he gets investigated by DOJ:
Students at The Learning Experience of Atascocita created heart-themed art to be auction off to raise funds for USA Cares.
USA Cares was specifically chosen by the center for its unique purpose.
"Our center chose to raise awareness and funds to benefit USA Cares, an organization committed to providing financial and advocacy assistance to post-9/11 active duty military personnel, veterans and their families," said preschool owner Manuel Magallanes.
Because Our Hearts Beat auction is a national philanthropic initiative The Learning Experience of Atascocita is taking part in for the first time this year.
"The initiative is an extension of our first-of-its-kind philanthropy curriculum at the preschool level," Magallanes said. "It brings into context the philanthropy word for the month of February which is 'cause.'"
All of the artwork auctioned off was created by the preschool students.
"The purpose of the auction is to raise money for a local cause while allowing our students the opportunity to have a hands-on experience with our philanthropy curriculum," Magallanes said.
The Learning Experience's 14 center's teachers and staff members and 75 students participated in fulfilling this auction.
Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce reported on its 2017 Austin Legislative trip to advocate for its top priorities during Bizcom Atascocita on Thursday, March 2.
Surveys and interviews conducted with major stakeholders, large employers and the school district led the chamber to its top priorities, said Terry Vaughn, chair of Lake Houston Area Chamber Public Affairs Committee.
"We came up with five major categories - taxation, regulation and fees; healthcare; economic development; transportation; and infrastructure, workforce and education," Vaughn said.
Taking a diverse group of people to Austin was key in the chamber's advocacy for the community.
"This wasn't just the business committee, the school board," Vaughn said. We had representation from small businesses, from big businesses. We had the City of Humble there."
Armed with their top five priorities, Vaughn said their key areas were taxation, regulation, and fees; healthcare; and economic development.
"Underneath our top three," Vaughn said. "We came and talked about some key specific points with bills that have already been filed."
For taxation regulation and fees, working to eliminate the franchise margin tax was most important because it hurts small businesses the most, he said.
"What we really urged them to do is help us to phase this out and repeal it eventually, which would change the lives of most of the small businesses in this area," Vaughn said.
For healthcare, Vaughn said they advocated allowing nurse practitioners to practice healthcare at the highest extent of their license.
"Right now they are kind of stifled and have to have a lot of oversight," Vaughn said. "When they go to school, they are very capable of diagnosing and doing some of these things."
Medicare synchronization was also a priority under healthcare in order to allow patients with multiple prescriptions easier access.
"There's a bill out there both in the Senate and the House right now that would allow the pharmacist to synchronize those medications and have them ready all on the same day," Vaughn said.
Under economic development, the City of Humble was present because Senate Bill 2 is a big deal for them in particular.
"It makes it where if the revenue of the city goes above a certain limit, they have to have a general election in November that costs about $20,000 in our area for us to do," Vaughn said.
With the City of Humble rapidly growing, a bill like that definitely has some negative impact, he said.
"We went in and opposed this because our area specifically is growing so fast, the city and the county need to be able to do whatever it takes to raise the threshold or maintain the current tax levels," Vaughn said.
In opposing Senate Bill 2, the city would be able to continue to expand roads, build parks and use funding toward expanding the area, he said.
Jeremy Phillips, senior director of infrastructure, spoke about the new Atascocita area park.
"Two weeks ago, we closed on a 19-plus acre property right along West Lake Houston near Rosewood Funeral Home," Phillips said.
This project could take up multiple phases, but Phillips said the first phase will cost around $3.2 million put toward constructing and opening the nature-theme park early next year.
"We are committed to try and develop this," said Phillips. "We tear down trees all the time for roads. We are really excited about preserving green space in the area."
Quest Early College and Lone Star College Kingwood have partnered with the University of Houston to preserve Bordersville by campaigning for historical recognition.
Students gathered Saturday, Feb. 25, at the Bordersville 3H Community Center to gather the information needed to make it happen.
With surrounding areas eating up the historic land in waves, Crescida Jacobs, instructor at Quest Early College, said they need to act fast to preserve what's left first by having the students interview community members and then documenting their stories.
"We would like to get historic designation for the community to try and keep some of the industrialization that's coming up. They already expanded Bush Airport into this community," Jacobs said.
Bordersville formed when many black Americans were pushed out of Humble in 1927 when the sawmill closed, leaving many jobless.
"Basically, Ed Borders, the sawmill owner, said that black people can come and live here," Jacobs said. "He gave them the land, and the way he gave them the land is, he just kind of said from this tree to this tree is your property."
The application process to get historical recognition begins with getting the history together.
"The first part of that application process is to develop a narrative of the history of the community and why it's important to preserve that story," Jacobs said.
The Bordersville 3H Community Center gaining historic recognition would enlighten Humble residents of its existence.
"We found this community that's really been ignored," Jacobs said. "People that grew up in Humble don't even know that it's here; it's a place that really needs historic recognition and protection."
When the airport was first expanding and the city was putting in water, Jacobs said people living in close proximity to the airport had to lobby for their own water.
"They had run water down Main Street to get to Bush airport, but no one in this community had running water in their homes, so for that to be right here in our community seemed a really obvious place to start," Jacobs said.
Members living in the community went to city hall to lobby for running water in their homes.
"This community didn't have running water down the streets until 1980s, and only then because people like A.W. Jones went to the city hall and fought," Jacobs said.
Designating Bordersville as a historic landmark will take time, but through this initiative, Jacobs said high school students will connect history back to their community.
"This seemed to be a natural way," Jacobs said. "They can see what it was like to live in Jim Crow Humble, from people who lived through that experience instead of just reading about it."
Several educators sat down together to discuss a project that wasn't the typical community clean-up or visit to a nursing home.
"The take away is to go to the community and ask them 'What would you like us to do?'" said Marty Willits, Quest Early College instructor.
Whispers of a segregated cemetery near the community center is also part of what Marty and Jacobs hope to preserve by pushing for a fence to protect the black section of the cemetery.
"There is a neighborhood going in on all three sides," Jacobs said. "There is a fence down the middle, and a fence around the white section, but there's nothing protecting those graves from any number of things."
Jacobs is looking to the students and community members for help in restoring the cemetery.
"Marty has a guy that is suppling a fence for us to put up," Jacobs said. "We just need to put it up. Just some basic protection for the dignity of the history of these people."
Students have been given an unique to learn history, but that isn't the only advantage to this project, said Chris Davis, associate professor of History at Lone Star College-Kingwood.
"It's really empowering for students to go out and become the historian for a day, rather than just learning the things we are required to by the state in a textbook, but really to go out and create history, to literally make history," Davis said.
The University of Houston plans to help by transcribing the interviews and archiving them for future educators, historians and students to one-day revisit and possibly contribute to this collection.
Since Houston Police Department Kingwood Division Captain Colin Weatherly started at the Kingwood Division in November, he has stressed the importance he places on building relationships in the community.
He has launched the Ministers Partnership, a new initiative he hopes will serve to strengthen the bond between the Kingwood area community and law enforcement.
Representatives from eight area churches met with Kingwood Division officers at the Kingwood Church of Christ for the inaugural Ministers Partnership Meeting Thursday, March 2.
Weatherly has been an officer with HPD for approximately 21 years and has served in several patrol divisions. The idea for a Ministers Partnership came from his experience as a lieutenant with the HPD Northeast Division.
"I was at Northeast about five years ago," Weatherly said. "Captain Fremin is the captain at Northeast. 'Northeast,' in HPD terminology is the 'Fifth Ward.' He started (a Ministers Partnership) maybe five years ago with six or seven pastors. I went to his meeting last Thursday and there was at least 100 people there. That's how much it has grown in four to five years."
The Kingwood area Ministers Partnership meetings are intended to be ongoing, but the frequency with which they will occur has yet to be determined.
Thursday's meeting was an informal lunch to introduce and discuss the goals of the partnership.
One goal was to strengthen the partnership between law enforcement, churches and the community.
Weatherly is not sure in what way the partnership may expand, but is not excluding the possibility of incorporating representatives from other community groups such as politicians.
"I'm just letting God lead the way of where this is to go," Weatherly said. "Where this goes from here, I'm not really sure. I think this is a good foundation. Between pastors and police; both of us have a lot of power to influence."
HPD-Kingwood Division's jurisdiction covers Kingwood as well as areas in Huffman and Summerwood. Weatherly aims to foster a partnership that includes churches and law enforcement agencies across the Lake Houston communities.
Weatherly said the partnership may also function to link those in need to services and resources in the community.
"Maybe your church specializes in something that we can all utilize," said Weatherly.
HPD Kingwood Division Lieutenant Chris Salazar said she considers the Ministers Partnership as a valuable tool and mutual resource for police officers and local ministers.
Salazar gave an example of a time during which having a network of community partnerships played an integral role in helping community members in need when on Dec. 3, a Dayton family was involved in a fatal accident in Huffman.
"The father was in the hospital up until about five weeks ago," Salazar said. "They didn't get to bury their son. He was only seven years old and they couldn't afford to bury their kid. I had this man who is in a wheelchair crying about his son; not getting to put him to rest."
By working with different individuals and organizations in the area including HAAM, FamilyTime and several others, the family has been receiving physical, emotional and financial support and have since been able to cremate their son and put him to rest.
Salazar encouraged area ministers to reach out to her and the HPD-Kingwood Division with their contact information so that they too may become a part of a network of potential support.
"When I come across situations like this, I want to give people that help," Salazar said. "I'm in this line of work because I have a serving heart and when someone hurts, I hurt with them. I think if we all come together, there's a lot of good that we can do out here."
Another goal of the partnership is to further the community's role in crime reduction efforts.
Local law enforcement counts on citizens and the community to help with crime prevention; however, sometimes citizens may be reluctant to contact police about an issue, explained Weatherly. Pastors may have access to helpful information, can help inform the community about crime prevention efforts and encourage more communication between the community and law enforcement.
"Part of my goal here is to build trust with the citizens," Weatherly said. "Pastors have a lot of power with their congregations. Hopefully we can add on to that trust and pastors can pass on the trust to members of the congregation."
Trish King, director of discipleship and spiritual development at Strawbridge United Methodist Church, said the partnership may serve as a resource for congregation leaders as well. Because police officers have a unique insight into the community, they may be able to point to different trends or issues that ministers can then look to address in their congregations.
Ultimately, Weatherly envisions this new initiative resulting in the formation of a problem-solving partnership.
"This is the foundation of our community right here in this room," Weatherly said. "It will continue to grow, but if this foundation is solid, then I really have no fear about us failingThere will be some things that test all of us, but if we create a strong foundation, then we will stand and our house, our neighborhood, our community will not fall from the storms."
For more information about the Ministers Partnership email Captain Colin Weatherly at Colin.Weatherly@houstonpolice.org, Officer Daniel Von Quintis at Daniel.Vonquintus@houstonpolice.org, or call the Kingwood Division station at 832-3951800.
Sergey Kislyak
Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak did not attend a corresponding Democratic National Committee event to one he attended at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, where he held an initial chat with then-Sen. Jeff Sessions, according to the DNC event's organizer.
That event was the International Leaders Forum, put on by the National Democratic Institute last July in Philadelphia. The State Department invites foreign ambassadors and dignitaries to both conventions as observers of the US's democratic election process.
A spokesperson for the NDI, which has hosted the event since the 1984 convention, told Business Insider that Kislyak was not registered for the program and no one present reported seeing him. The spokesperson said there was "no evidence" he was present.
It's a "widely attended event and ... no one remembers seeing him there," the NDI spokesperson said, later adding, "We talked about a lot, and he's not like somebody that you wouldn't notice."
The spokesperson said he could not confirm whether Kislyak was present for any DNC-related event or the convention itself. Michael McFaul, the former US ambassador to Russia under President Barack Obama, tweeted Thursday that Kislyak was not present for the DNC, which occurred just days after WikiLeaks dumped a trove of hacked emails from the Democratic National Committee, an act that US intelligence has concluded was done with Russian involvement.
McFaul responded to a subsequent request for comment from Business Insider by telling a reporter to "ask the Russian embassy."
The Russian embassy did not return an earlier request for comment from Business Insider.
In an email correspondence with Business Insider on Thursday, a State Department spokesperson said the department has invited foreign ambassadors to attend both conventions since the 1980s. The spokesperson listed the Global Partners in Diplomacy event, the RNC event where Kislyak and Sessions spoke, and the International Leaders Forum as the two events where it coordinated with organizers to bring the diplomatic corps.
Story continues
The State Department manages the invitations, logistics, and security for the ambassadors, while the ambassadors themselves have to pay for their own expenses, such as flights and hotel accommodations. The State Department did not fund either event, and it could not confirm the list of ambassadors that attended each event.
One of the sponsor organizations for the RNC's Global Partners in Diplomacy event was the Heritage Foundation. A spokesperson for Heritage told Business Insider in an email that Sessions provided a keynote address at a defense and national-security luncheon attended by roughly 100 individuals. The spokesperson said, "I believe he was speaking as a senator on Armed Services" during his address, not as a Trump campaign surrogate.
As The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday, a spokesperson for Sessions said the appearance was in his capacity as a senator and not as a campaign official. The spokesperson added that Sessions was approached following the speech by several ambassadors, including Kislyak, with whom he held a "short and informal" conversation.
But Politico reported Thursday that Sessions was identified as a top Trump adviser for his speech before the dignitaries at the Cleveland convention.
Sessions held an additional discussion with Kislyak in September at the senator's office. A Justice Department official said both instances were in his capacity as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and not as a surrogate for Trump.
Jeff Sessions
News of the discussions with Kislyak sparked a firestorm. A number of Democratic politicians called for Sessions, now the attorney general, to resign. In a Thursday press conference, Sessions announced he would recuse himself from any investigation that involved the Trump campaign.
The Sessions controversy centers on whether he misled Congress about the discussions during his Senate confirmation hearing, when he did not mention the pair of discussions in an exchange with Democratic Sen. Al Franken of Minnesota. Franken did not ask Sessions whether he specifically spoke with Russian operatives, but Sessions, in answering an unrelated question, said he did not have any communications with "the Russians."
During his Thursday press conference, Sessions tried to clear up some questions about his contacts with Kislyak.
In describing the meeting, of which he said he recalled little, Sessions said he discussed terrorism and Ukraine, adding that the discussion surrounding the country "got to be a little bit of a testy conversation."
On why he didn't mention the conversations during his answer in the confirmation hearing, Sessions said he was "taken aback" by the new information Franken had presented in his question.
"This allegation that a surrogate and I had been called a surrogate for Donald Trump had been meeting continuously with Russian officials, and that's what I it struck me very hard, and that's what I focused my answer on," he said. "And in retrospect, I should have slowed down and said, 'But I did meet one Russian official a couple of times, and that would be the ambassador.'"
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More than $381 million will be spent over the next two years to provide water for the growing Lake Houston population through the Luce Bayou Interbasin Transfer Project, which broke ground Friday, Feb. 24.
Another $1 billion will be spent on expanding the Northeast Water Purification Plant to accommodate the 400 million gallons of water a day. When the project is finished, water will be directed through a series of 8-foot pipes and canals from the Trinity River to Lake Houston. Before the water reaches the lake, it'll be slowed down to prevent erosion.
"The whole region is growing by leaps and bounds," Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner told the Save Water Texas Coalition after the groundbreaking. "Back in 2011, we experienced a serious drought. If you don't take the necessary measures to build the infrastructure in order to be able to have that ready supply of water available, then you cannot have growth and development, you simply cannot.
"This is our economic engine. The water literally is the fuel that drives the engine. If you don't have the water, you can't go."
The Coastal Water Authority partnered with the North, West and Central Harris County Regional Water Authorities as well as the North Ft. Bend Regional Water Authority to make it happen. The bulk of the funding, $300 million, is coming from the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT). The Texas Water Development Board is providing another $62 million and the participating agencies are footing the rest of the bill. The city of Houston already owns the water.
Bech Bruun, chairman of the Texas Water Development Board said the Luce Bayou is one of the most important projects in the state.
"We are under budget, and we have made sure that the staff understand that we will stay under budget," said Wayne Klotz, president of the Coastal Water Authority.
The project also reduces the city's dependence on groundwater supply, creating more access to surface water.
The Luce Bayou project was first conceived in 1938 when Mayor Richard Fonville purchased the property that would become Lake Houston with a personal check. Though the project was designed in the 1980s, it's been on the state water plan since 2001.
There have been several developments over the years, Turner said.
"But none, except maybe that original land purchase 80 years ago, may be more important than what we are doing today," the mayor said. "Lake Houston and Lake Conroe have served us well. There is capacity in Trinity River, and we have had the right to take that water since the 1990s."
Turner projected 5 million people in the city of Houston by 2030.
"Thanks to the action that we are taking today, there will be a plentiful, steady supply of water," he said.
The Taco Bell on 8919 Spring Cypress Road is minus an employee after a Houston Police officer found a derogatory phrase written on the bottom of his food bag.
The incident happened Tuesday, Feb. 28, the same day two other HPD officers were shot and hospitalized after an altercation with a 52 Hoovers gang member.
LUBBOCK Texas Corn Producers (TCP) encourages farmers to attend a Corn Farmer Town Hall Meeting this week. TCP directors and staff will be facilitating discussions with farmers at four separate town hall meetings in Hart, Panhandle, Hereford and Dalhart. TCP directors and staff are seeking corn farmers input on farm legislation, as well as other areas impacting farmers and their business in the High Plains. Corn farmers have the opportunity to align the advocacy efforts and priorities of the Texas corn checkoff and association to best support them. Our organizations work diligently on behalf of the farmers in Texas, TCP Executive Director David Gibson said. This is a crucial opportunity for us to receive the input and feedback we need to continue best supporting corn farmers across the state now and in the future. A free meal will be provided to farmers in attendance of each meeting. A wide array of topics will be covered at the Corn Farmer Town Halls, including: --Review and discussion of current farm bill --Outlook and discussion of needs for next farm bill -- State checkoff and association activities and objectives --Regional concerns and issues --Involvement opportunities Weve already hosted a handful of these meetings, and received excellent feedback from hundreds of farmers, Gibson said. Having this firsthand insight is a crucial part of ensuring that TCP is representing and advocating for corn farmers in the best ways possible. We look forward to hearing from corn farmers across the High Plains as we wrap up our round of town halls. The following schedule outlines TCPs remaining corn farmer town hall meetings: Hart Golden Group Building, 10 a.m.-noon, March 6 Panhandle Carson Co. Ag Barn, 10 a.m.-noon, March 7 Hereford Deaf Smith Co. Extension Office, 10 a.m.-noon, March 9 Dalhart Rita Blanca Coliseum, 10 a.m.-noon, March 10 Additional details and information can be found on the TCP website, www.TexasCorn.org. Questions can be directed to 806.763.CORN (2676) or info@texascorn.org
Covenant Health Plainview is dedicated to providing the most advanced healthcare in the comfort of your community.
In April, the Plainview hospital is expanding on that philosophy as it welcomes a new general surgeon, Paresh K. Rajajoshiwala, M.D., to the community.
I am very excited to be coming to Plainview, said Rajajoshiwala, who also goes by the name Dr. Raja.
Dr. Raja has grown to become a renowned surgeon in his nearly 20-year career and will be a great addition to the specialist team at Covenant Health Plainview.
Im extremely happy to have Dr. Raja join our medical team, said Covenant Health Plainview CEO Bob Copeland. He and his family will be a welcomed addition to Plainview. He is very experienced and will bring a whole new dynamic to Covenant Health Plainview. I think he is going to fit in very well with our current surgeons, in particular, Dr. Ilhan Yildiz and Dr. Douglas Cummins.
Raja begins his practice at Covenant Health Plainview at the beginning of April and will office with Yildiz inside the Plainview hospital.
Prior to his move to Plainview, Dr. Raja has run a general and bariatric surgery practice in San Antonio since 2009. Dr. Raja worked inside a number of San Antonio hospitals, including the Baptist Healthcare System, the Methodist Healthcare System and Christus Santa Rosa Healthcare.
Dr. Raja graduated high school in Covina, Calif., and then majored in Biochemistry and Biological Science at California State University and the University of California at Irvine.
I just love science, said Dr. Raja with a laugh as he explained his reasoning for entering the medical field.
But with also a passion for working with his hands, Dr. Raja said he eventually chose to pursue a career as a surgeon.
Im more of a hands-on kind of person. And when I see a problem, I want to fix it, Raja said.
As a surgeon, Im able to do that. I can find a resolution and really set that patient free from whatever their problem is; and in a fairly short interval of time.
Thats the reward, seeing how their lives change tremendously.
In 1989, Dr. Raja entered the distinguished Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago, Ill.
Dr. Raja then entered a research fellowship at the University of Cincinnatis Department of Neurological Surgery before interning in Los Angeles and eventually becoming Chief Resident in Surgery at Santa Barbara, Calif.
Dr. Raja practiced in California until 2003 when he moved his general and bariatric surgery practice to the Wish Center in San Antonio.
It was one of those, I wasnt born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could situations, said Dr. Raja with another laugh.
Raja practiced for more than a decade in San Antonio. However, Raja said he soon had a calling to move his practice where it would have a bigger impact; a place like West Texas.
I think the biggest draw for me was to be able to provide services to where there truly was a need, Raja said.
Raja said San Antonio was very saturated with providers and he felt he needed a community where he could truly make a difference.
I think Plainview really fit that bill. There are people in the area that really need these types of services and expertise without having to travel great distances to get that care, Raja said.
Though Raja had other choices in the West Texas region, Raja said Plainview really stood out, as he commented on how impressed he was with the investment and growth of Plainviews hospital, especially after touring the newly completed James and Eva Surgical Center, which is a part of the hospitals current $40 million renovation project.
Well, the first thing that stuck out for me was the very close-knit community and close-knit hospital Plainview had, said Raja as he commented on how its easy to get lost in the system at bigger city hospitals.
In a close-knit hospital, you know the care and communication is direct and is going to be carried out well. This gives patients a level of comfort and confidence, Raja said.
And when you see upgrades in the facility and in the community, it indicates that the administration, and the medical community in general, is very vested in providing long-term, high-level care in the community. I was very impressed by the level of expansion and level of activity at the hospital because it only goes to show that the hospital is well entrenched in the community and wants to grow for the community so it can provide high-level of care in the next decades to come, Raja said.
Raja said he is also very interested in working with outlying clinics and hospitals in the area a few times a month.
Raja is married to wife, Nita, and together they have two children, Devon who is in his senior year at the University of Texas San Antonio and is planning to go to medical school this year and Maya, 17, who is a senior in high school and plans to attend the University of Texas in Austin.
In his spare time, Raja likes to work out and loves to travel.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville recently hosted, Louis Sullivan Architectural Ornaments at SIUE Conference: Bring the Past to Live in the 21st Century and a film screening of Louis Sullivan: The Struggle for American Architecture as part of its Arts & Issues series.
Sullivans architectural ornament collection, salvaged by photographer Richard Nickel, was sold to SIUE in 1965 and ever since has been known as the largest collection of physical ornaments from the world-renowned designers constructions.
On this weeks episode of Segue on WSIE 88.7 FM, SIUEs premier radio show that outlines the ideas and issues within the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), Greg Budzban, PhD, CAS dean, speaks to documentary filmmaker Mark Richard Smith about the screening of his film, his research about Sullivan and Sullivans profound effect on American architecture.
Known as the father of the skyscraper and creator of the iconic phrase form follows function, Louis Sullivans influential designs paved the way for famous architects like Frank Lloyd Wright in the late 19th century heading into the 20th century.
Smith came upon Sullivan by a sheer sense of fate. While studying for his graduate degree in history at Loyola University in Chicago, he took a stroll down Michigan Ave. and a book on display inside a store caught his eye.
The books cover featured a whole block of buildings in Chicago that had been demolished, minus one. Incredibly moved by the image, he marched inside the store and bought the book, Richard Nickels Chicago, right then and there.
As someone who loves history and old architecture, it was almost like seeing a photograph of death, Smith says.
I immediately went into the bookstore and bought it. Through that book, I was introduced to the work of Louis Sullivan, and it was almost like I caught a disease.
Smith had a quite successful run in the career of graphic design before stepping out of the business to pursue other dreams.
I had always been a visual storyteller, albeit in a corporate way with my graphic design background, he says.
I always dreamed of working in film, and I finally decided to dive in.
With no experience in filmmaking and documentation, Smith began making pilgrimages to existing Sullivan sites around the country and simply began filming.
At the time, I did not know what story I wanted to tell, I just knew I wanted to go out and film these buildings. It took me around the entire country.
Along with Sullivans partner, Dankmar Adler, the duo designed some of the most celebrated marvels, such as the Auditorium Building (1889) in Chicago, Guaranty Building (1894) in Buffalo, N.Y., the Wainwright Building (1890) and the Charlotte Dixon Wainwright Tomb (1892) in Bellefontaine Cemetery in St. Louis.
On his own, Sullivan took on 256 other commissions and projects, including the James Chamley House (1891) and the facade of the Krause Music Store (1922) in Chicago.
In the later part of his career, he designed a series of small banks and commercial buildings in states across the Midwest including Minnesota, Iowa, Ohio, Indiana and Michigan.
Throughout his career, it was often Sullivan against the world, and yet he was creating beautiful architecture in the midst of these burgeoning cities, he says. In a way, he was at war with the very society that he was working so hard to change.
In his film, Smith allowed Sullivans work to speak for itself and responds to it not only as a filmmaker, but as a designer and historian.
There are plenty of people who write about Sullivans work from a theoretical standpoint, but something unique that I bring to the conversation is how exactly his work fits into our cultural history.
In a time where American society was so intent on creating an identity itself, a flux of creative work came out of the industrial revolution and the fresh transition from rural life to urban prosperity.
American society was very self-conscious, he says. As a rural society without traditions of art, literature and a young system of government, we had to find our own way. This artistic attempt to find out who the United States was and what we represented as people was explained through Sullivans buildings.
Enter Richard Nickel.
After serving in the Korean War, he got divorced from his wife and moved back in with his parents. Simply looking for his way in life, he began studying photography at the Design Institute in Chicago in the 1950s.
At the same time, Sullivans architectural features on homes, factories and businesses on the south side of Chicago began to be torn down during a process of urban renewal.
As soon as he found out about Sullivans work, Nickel began working diligently to preserve and document Sullivans buildings.
From Nickels perspective, there was a light that was being extinguished. He was going to do anything he could to save it, Smith says.
He would find Sullivans architectural features and strap them to the hood of his car and place them in his parents driveway.
Through a self-proclaimed series of coincidences, Nickel sold a collection containing dozens of Sullivans architectural ornaments to SIUE for around $25,000 in 1965.
Since then, it has been a permanent exhibit in the Lovejoy Library and has given a greater knowledge of the past and current efforts to preserve Sullivans and others cultural artifacts and buildings.
Tune in to WSIE 88.7 FM at 9 a.m. this Sunday to hear the entire thought-provoking conversation between Dean Budzban and Smith.
SIUE University Marketing & Communications
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A Conroe man who attacked a former friend and her sister with a machete will spend the next 15 years in prison, an incident reminiscent of a horror film, prosecutors said.
Richard Brett Alexander Crawford, 22, had a falling-out with a friend prior to June 2015. During the rift, Crawford had an outburst and breakdown that landed him in a mental hospital, prosecutors said.
Following his release, he became upset because his friend did not come and visit him while he was admitted, according to Assistant District Attorney Amy Waddle. Crawford went to the house where his friend was staying and broke in with a machete on June 16, 2015, attacking her and her sister in the process.
"Her sister was the one who happened to be closest to the door when he entered the habitation," Waddle said. "It sounds like something from a horror movie, because she notices the door cracked partially and goes to shut it. All of a sudden, this machete comes through the door. He steps into the door after that and they see who it is."
Crawford swung the machete around inside the house, specifically attacking his friend. He struck her in the leg multiple times before aiming for her head, Waddle said.
His friend blocked that blow with her arm, although she suffered a gash down to her bone as a result.
"It's not every day we have a victim who is almost hacked to death by a machete," Waddle said. "The circumstances read a lot like a lot of family violence cases and that type of situation, even though in this case they were just friends. It's a really scary situation I don't think many people find them in."
Crawford made his way to his home in Conroe, where deputies found him on his roof with the machete, Waddle said.
Crawford pleaded guilty to two second-degree felony counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and one second-degree felony count of burglary of a habitation. As a part of his plea agreement, prosecutors dropped two other second-degree felony charges and a state-jail felony charge stemming from an incident on New Year's Eve in 2015 while on bond.
Judge Patty Maginnis in the 435th state District Court sentenced Crawford on Wednesday. Crawford's listed attorney was not available.
A Woodlands lawmaker's attempt at preventing undocumented immigrants from receiving state funds to raise children in the state's broken foster-care system sparked a heated debate, with at least one representative saying the move tiptoes on racism.
House Bill 4, one of three major Child Protective Services reform bills presented by Texas legislators this session, seeks to change the formula by which caregivers are compensated for taking care of child relatives who are in the foster-care system. Currently, any family members who undertake child relatives in the foster system receive a one-time stipend per child from the state, where foster families receive monthly stipends per child.
Under HB 4, adults who take care of their child relatives in the system would receive a monthly stipend if their annual income is within 300 percent of the federal poverty level. That stipend would be half of the Department of State Health Service's daily basic foster care rate for the child, according to the bill.
Relatives with income from 300 to 500 percent of the federal poverty level would only receive the former one-time stipend; and anyone with income more than 500 percent of the poverty level would not receive any stipend.
Texas House members passed the bill Wednesday, although not before state Rep. Mark Keough, R-The Woodlands, tried to include wording that barred undocumented immigrants from receiving the stipends described in the bill.
"We're creating an entitlement that at the outset, we're automatically working into it a payment structure to individuals who are undocumented," Keough, who coauthored the bill, said on the House floor Wednesday. "We do not have the funding mechanism within this for undocumented workers. It's not in the bill. It's not there for undocumented people, for undocumented families."
The amendment drew criticism from both House Democrats and Republicans, who said Keough was making partisan a bill that had bipartisan approval.
State Rep. Rafael Anchia, D-Dallas, on multiple occasions called the amendment racist. Other Democrats said it created a separate class of individuals.
Their argument hinged on the fact that children in the foster-care system do not pick and choose who their relatives are, therefore Keough's amendment could hurt the very children the bill was intended to help.
"The vulnerable, innocent kids, you're using them as a prop so you can go home to your district and beat your chest about how tough you are on immigration issues," Anchia said. "That's wrong."
Keough denounced the notion his amendment was racist, saying any undocumented immigrant who would use the program would be difficult to vet to ensure they are actually related to the child in the foster care system.
State Rep. Byron Cook, R-Corsicana, also opposed Keough's amendment, saying it was not in the best interest of the children the bill seeks to help.
"If we put children first, we wouldn't be obsessing about who's providing the care," Cook said on the House floor. "We've heard at great length that kinship care is the most meaningful, greatest opportunity for these kids to have a normal life. Now we're saying 'We're not going to let these people do that.' I'm disturbed about that. I'm brokenhearted about that."
In an interview Thursday, state Rep. and House Bill 4 coauthor Cecil Bell, R-Magnolia, defended Keough's amendment, saying it simply attempted to ensure the state follows the rule of law.
"His effort was just to comply with the legal system that we have in our country," Bell said. "The floor rhetoric spun that into a totally different conversation. It tried to make it about a different message. At no point in time was Rep. Keough ever discussing anything other than the fact that we as a state need to comply with our own laws and order to not have chaos."
Keough eventually withdrew his amendment, meaning it did not make it into the bills the House unanimously passed 144-0 Wednesday.
In a text message, Keough said he did so to ensure the heart of the bill made it into law.
"(The amendment if passed) stood to kill the entire bill," Keough said Thursday. "Without a Senate bill that does the same thing, killing House Bill 4 with my amendment would not accomplish the goals of reforming CPS. So I did what I could to ensure House Bill 4 passed for the good of the state's vulnerable children."
House Bills 4, 5 and 6 are geared toward fixing the state's broken foster-care system, which came under extreme scrutiny the past couple of years. U.S. District Judge Janis Graham Jack called Texas' foster-care system "broken" and unconstitutional in late 2015 because of long-standing operational flaws that allowed children in permanent custody to be abused and neglected, according to earlier Houston Chronicle reports.
The House passed House Bills 4 and 5 Wednesday, meaning both bills are now in the hands of the Texas Senate. House Bill 6 is in the House's Human Services, CPS/Foster Care subcommittee, of which Keough is the chair.
The Senate also passed a measure that makes several changes to CPS.
Senate Bill 11, authored by Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown, provides timely services for foster-care children; puts more accountability on providers in the system; and creates higher standards for investigating abuse within the system.
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Three months and $10,000 ago, Kristina Borden started a campaign to vaccinate, feed and clothe 27 Ugandan orphans.
The 32-year-old from Lumberton said she decided to give to the Tender Love Orphanage in Jinja, Uganda, because she "thought America is really privileged, and there's a lot of people that need our help."
Borden has raised nearly $10,000 since launching her DonorSee fundraising campaign in October.
Fauza, Simon and Goretti are only three of several children who have received medical treatment thanks to Borden's efforts.
The orphanage's children also got a holiday surprise each of a chicken dinner with a soda and a new pair of shoes.
A self-described former charity skeptic, Borden said she likes the DonorSee site because it allows donors to actually see and interact with those benefiting from their assistance.
The DonorSee page allows project coordinators, like Borden, to post videos and pictures of each child's progress, something Borden said she feels is a game changer in fundraising.
"I've never been to Uganda, but I know at some point in my life I will be in Africa," said Borden. "I know that God is calling me to do ministry."
While Borden has not yet been to Uganda, she "visits" with the Mugaggas and the orphans frequently on FaceTime, a video and audio calling system created by Apple.
She's learned all of the children's names and has become invested in their progress.
"It's an emotional journey, because there are times where the money isn't coming in as fast as it needs to be," Borden said. "I've gotten to know them. I know their ages and their faces. It's very personal."
SFlores@BeaumontEnterprise.comTwitter.com/_saraeflores
Students from Oak Ridge High School's Advanced Fashion Design class were recognized by NASA Thursday for sewing designs that help make astronauts' lives more comfortable and convenient during training and on the International Space Station.
ORHS partnered with NASA in January 2010 as part of the High School Students United with NASA to Create Hardware, or HUNCH, program. This year, students from Darlene Parsons' Advanced Fashion Design course created eight covers for the Leonardo Permanent Multipurpose Module and two privacy curtains that will be used on the ISS.
The eight module covers will be used to protect equipment when the astronauts are showering and taking care of hygienic needs. The two privacy curtains will be used to create a barrier between astronauts while in the PMM of the ISS.
ORHS junior Sofia Aponte said this is her second year in Parsons' class and she was able to participate in HUNCH projects last year as well, which involved crafting small toiletry bags for astronauts. Creating the module covers and curtains was a class effort, and Aponte's role was quality control, ensuring that every item was sewed properly.
"This was by far my favorite project since last year, because I feel like I've grown as a student and as a sewer," Aponte said. "This curtain was more difficult to make, because it was much larger and much more critical so there was much more weight on our shoulders."
Parsons said she has been involved with the collaboration with HUNCH since the beginning and has seen the program grow over the years. This year, Parsons said they put the ORHS name on each PMM cover and curtain, so the crew members know which high school sewed them.
To recognize the work of the students, NASA Soft Goods Manager Marcie Dickson brought a single-storage locker to ORHS Thursday to allow the students to sign it. The locker was built by other HUNCH students from across the United States, and it has not been determined when the locker will be shipped to the space station.
"It gives them (the crew members) a warm feeling to see the signatures, and I think they enjoy that it's an item that HUNCH fabricated," Dickson said.
Dickson encouraged other ORHS students to get involved with HUNCH, as she said great things can come from working with NASA. For example, Dickson said an ORHS graduate and student of Parsons', Leah Hansen, recently earned a spot on the Soft Goods Specialist team.
Additionally, Dickson confirmed that ORHS's PMM covers and privacy curtain were approved by NASA and are in line to be packed and manifested. She said the covers and curtains are a "really wanted item," so NASA looks to have the items shipped this summer to the ISS on Orbital 7, a cargo resupply mission.
Nine Plainview High School visual arts students entered art work in the 2017 Regional VASE (Visual Arts Scholastic Event) held on Feb. 18 at Frenship High School.
Seven PHS students placed in their event and received a Superior rating and a regional medal. Those students advanced to a second round of judging where two students -- Yingzhi Huang and Lucy Hernandez -- qualified to advance to state competition.
Participating students were seniors Alex Reyes, Lidia Hernandez, Britney Favila and Alex Martinez; juniors Jewel Torres and DeeAnna Garcia; and sophomores Yingzhi Huang, Lucy Hernandez and Enrique Parades.
According to PHS art teacher Sharon Hughes, this years competition registered 513 pieces of artwork representing 20 school districts. Only 36 pieces are advancing to state competition.
It is a state event that is run by the Texas Art Education Association or TAEA, explained PHS art teacher Julee Patterson. It is an elite competition that PHS hasnt competed in in many years, but we are back at it.
The VASE is open to full-time students in grades 9-12 in Texas public, private, homeschool and charter schools. All participating students must be academically eligible on the day of the VASE event, in accordance with the TEA UIL Academic Requirements.
Participants must be present at the regional event and go through an individual interview process. Student interview scores are based on student research and application to work, explanation of their artwork sources, execution and technique, their description of the aesthetic and critical decisions involved in developing the art, and how the work represents their individual imagination, creativity, individuality and point of view.
We are very proud of all the students who entered the event, said Hughes. They competed very well and received high marks. Especially the two young ladies advancing to state.
State completion will be held in April at James Madison High School in San Antonio.
AUSTIN -- The Senate has approved bills this week on the last two items tagged as emergencies by Gov. Greg Abbott in late January. Measures relating to the call of a constitutional convention and foster system reform join bills banning sanctuary cities and reforming ethics rules for elected officials already sent to the House for consideration.
Tuesday, the Senate approved SJR 2 and SB 21, bills to call a constitutional convention and set rules for selecting and controlling delegates to that convention, respectively. Legislation author Sen. Brian Birdwell of Granbury believes an out-of-control federal government must be reined in by the states. "It is abundantly clear to me that the Congress is incapable of or unwilling to propose amendments that limit its own power or that of the other branches to return our nation to the original spirit of federalism intended by our founders," he said. The mechanism for that is found in Article V of the U.S. Constitution, which requires Congress to call a convention for the purpose of amending the nation's founding document if 34 states formally petition for it. Any amendments approved at that convention are adopted if ratified by 38 states. So far, Birdwell says eight other states have passed resolutions similar to SJR 2.
If you know anything about saxophonist Greg Wall, you probably know the two words that best describe him. Hes the Jazz Rabbi. Since August 2013, Rabbi Greg Wall has been the spiritual leader of Beit Chaverim Synagogue in Westport. Prior to that, he served as rabbi of the Sixth Street Community Synagogue, in New York Citys East Village. But wherever he goes, Wall also brings with him remarkable jazz credentials and a determination to develop, strengthen and continue the jazz tradition.
He and his band Portal perform at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 5, at the Westport Arts Center. The concert, entitled Of Jews and Jazz, is a tribute to Walls jazz heroes and includes original music combining elements of jazz, Jewish and African American roots music as well as classics from the original Golden Era of Jewish New York.
I am blessed to have two parallel endeavors that I love equally, said Wall, during a recent interview. Although my main rabbinic role is to teach Judaism, I find that the road to success as an artist is almost identical to the path of developing a fulfilling spiritual practice. Key word: Practice. Both require a day-in, day-out consistency. Both require seeing your role as an inheritor of a rich tradition, and responsibility to simultaneously preserve and propel that tradition into the future by always keeping it relevant.
Walls music career includes touring and recording regularly. I just recorded two CDs worth of material with Zion80. We will premier one of them this fall at the Village Vanguard, he said. I also just released a CD with my quartet Portal, who will be appearing with me at WAC. These guys are amazing. They include David Morgan on piano, Rich Zurkowski on bass, and Matt Moadel on drums.
The Jazz Rabbis remarkable music career includes early years studying with jazz legends like Archie Shepp and Frank Foster. He graduated from the prestigious New England Conservatory, where some of his teachers included greats like Joe Allard, Jimmy Giuffre, and Joe Maneri.
He toured nationally with the Bourbon Street Jass Band, a critically-acclaimed group he formed at the New England Conservatory, which was later called The Hi-Tops. They played authentic versions of classic 20s and 30s jazz by the likes of Jelly Roll Morton's Red Hot Peppers, early Ellington, Louis Armstrongs Hot Five and Hot Seven, King Oliver, and Sidney Bechet, along with Roy Eldridge, Jimmy Lunceford, and Count Basie. While recording with them, he also worked on more modern original music. The jazzman was also part of the Knitting Factory scene in New York City and toured all over the world with his band Hasidic New Wave, recording with them and with other Knitting Factory artists.
Wall is a familiar face on the local jazz scene, too. Every Thursday, for the past two years, hes been hosting jazz shows at 323 Main St. in Westport. A friend knew that the space was underused, and we suggested to the owner he try a weekly jazz series, said Wall. It took off, and now we sell out just about every week and have some amazing world class players regularly.
An anniversary show is set for April 27, which is also the official kick off of the new Jazz Society of Fairfield County, which Wall is organizing. Why? The music needs a base of support away from commercial interests. Also, people shouldn't need to go to a bar in order to experience jazz. It belongs to everyone, including the young, the old, and the infirm. We will make sure that the underserved get a chance to fall in love with jazz.
Wall describes the WAC show as a musical autobiography showing how jazz music brought me back to my Jewish roots, he said, and ties in just about all of my influences. From Ancient to Future.
Brian Torff, the Westport Arts Centers Curator for Jazz, added, Greg is the rare musician who makes a strong connection between both a musical and spiritual form of expression. This will be a dynamic performance that will utilize jazz in a realm that is rarely heard.
The Westport Arts Center is located at 51 Riverside Ave. in Westport. Tickets are $30. Call 203-222-7070, or visit www.westportartscenter.org.
Mike Horyczuns Sound Surfing column appears every Saturday in The Hour. Mike can be reached at news2mh@gmail.com.
Despite Snap (SNAP) still in its relative infancy, the CEO of the world's largest advertising agency has told CNBC the tech company has entered a fierce race for revenue against major rivals like Google and Facebook.
"If you look at the competitive reaction, if you look at Facebook's reaction in terms of copying or imitating a lot of the features that Snapchat (SNAP)has, that's indicative of the issues that Facebook faces in relation to Snap and its growth," Martin Sorrell, the chief executive officer of WPP said Friday.
He added that whereas Google's direct competitor is more Amazon, Facebook (FB)'s is now Snap - the parent company for social media platform Snapchat.
"So you have a search war developing between Amazon and Google and you have a social media war, if I can put it that way, or market share war between Facebook and Snap," Sorrell said.
Snap had its initial public offering debut on Thursday and saw its stock rise more than 40 percent , pushing it well above the $17 a share it priced its IPO. However, when looking at digital advertising, Facebook and Google are the two big names in the market.
Sorrell explained that out of the $75 billion that his company spends on media bookings, about $90 million went into Snap. Snap's revenues in 2016 were reportedly around $400 million with Sorrell suggesting the company was targeting about $1.25 billion for this year.
"We'll see how far they go, that pales into relative insignificance to Google," he said.
"Google (: ) and Facebook (FB) dominate digital advertising. They own about 75 percent of the market. And they get about 100 percent of incremental spend at the moment," Sorrell noted. "What our clients want and what our agencies and indeed our competitors' agencies want is more competition in the market place," he told CNBC.
WPP (London Stock Exchange: WPP-GB) posted its 2016 earnings on Friday with like-for-like revenue growth of around 3 percent. However, it also gave a conservative outlook for 2017 "given continued tepid economic growth."
-CNBC's Fred Imbert contributed to this report.
Follow CNBC International on Twitter and Facebook.
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Ten years after Colleen Shipman was attacked in a crazed pepper spray incident, she is speaking out about her life now and her marriage to the man at the center of an infamous love triangle.
This week Shipman told Inside Edition, "I do still have anxiety ... I do still look over my shoulder a lot."
On Feb. 5, 2007, in the parking lot of the Orlando International Airport, NASA astronaut Lisa Nowak, was wearing a trench coat, sunglasses, and a wig when she pepper sprayed Shipman, who was the new girlfriend of astronaut and Nowak's former lover, William Oefelein.
The headlines went nuts over the allegation that Nowak wore adult diapers during the 14 hour drive from her Clear Lake home to Orlando so she wouldn't have to stop.
REALITY: TV couples that ended up in Splitsville
Attempted kidnapping charges initially loomed over the NASA employee when police found a BB gun, a steel mallet, a four-inch folding knife, six black latex gloves, and plastic garbage bags in Nowak's car.
According to a Houston Chronicle article, Nowak pleaded guilty to misdemeanor battery and felony burglary of conveyance and was sentenced to 50 hours of community service.
ICYMI: Judge seals records of NASA astronaut's love-triangle arrest
Nonetheless, the attack left Shipman completely traumatized and at one point, didn't leave her house for six months. Shipman said, "To this day, I'm always armed. I am armed all the time, 24/7."
Looking on the bright side, Shipman now calls Oefelein her husband and the best husband ever at that. The couple who now lives in southern Alaska, married in 2010, and are parents to a four-year-old son.
In 2011, startling news hit when Oefelein was involved small crash in rural Alaska that he was piloting. Luckily the former astronaut and two others walked away uninjured.
Shipman also has published her first novel in 2015, Eerie under the pen name, C.M. McCoy.
Check out the NASA portraits of Lisa Nowak and William Oefelein and other photos from the NASA love triangle fiasco.
Last year, Instagram, the popular photo-sharing app, announced a new feature called Stories where users can post photo and video slideshows that disappear after a 24-hour period. This sounds shamelessly familiar to Snapchat Stories, which also allows users to post photos and videos in a slideshow format that disappears after 24 hours.
This isnt the first time Instagram has tried to replicate Snapchat. Back in 2014, it launched Bolt, a private messaging service that lets you send one-tap photos and videos, much like Snapchat, but is now defunct.
Instagram CEO Kevin Systrom has already acknowledged the blatant similarities between the respective Stories, telling TechCrunch that [Snapchat] deserves all the credit, but that This isnt about who invented something. This is about format, and how you take it to a network and put your own spin on it.
I mean, sure, putting your own spin on things is cool, but they could have at least come up with a different name.
And Then Theres Facebook
Facebook FB, (who coincidentally, or conveniently, owns Instagram), has been formatting many of its new features and apps based off of Snapchat for a few years now. In late 2012, Facebook launched Poke, an almost exact clone of Snapchat that unsurprisingly failed, and then in 2013, it tried to straight up buy Snapchat for a whopping $3 billion. Snapchat turned down that offer, spurring a tech chase for the ages.
Following Poke, Facebook announced its app called Slingshot in 2014, which worked exactly like Snapchat but with one distinct feature: before a user could view a message, they had to send a message back. These required replies lasted for only three months before Facebook removed them from Slingshot, and the app sat around for about a year afterwards before being officially removed.
Other Snapchat rip-off ventures of Facebook include disappearing posts, disappearing messages in Messenger, photo editing options where you can swipe through filters and position text and emoji, face-altering filters thanks to its acquisition of the app MSQRD, a face-swapping app, and Messenger Codes, which are scannable dots and dashes around your profile picture letting you add a person as a contact. Messenger Codes is almost exactly the same as Snapchats Snapcodes.
Story continues
The company recently debuted a new Snapchat-like feature in its WhatsApp Messenger platform that lets users post pictures and videos to a new feed that deletes itself after 24 hours, dubbed WhatsApp Status. Find out more about that in the latest episode of Zacks Tech Talk Tuesday with host Ryan McQueeney here.
Facebook isnt the only big company looking at Snapchat for new ideas. Microsoft MSFT also has a Snapchat clone on the market called WindUp, which lets users share photos and videos, as well as text and audio snippets. You can set a time limit for your friends to view messages before they expire, or can stick to a traditional view limit. WindUp is still available in Microsofts app store.
Even Wall Street newbie Line LN, the Japanese messaging app, also has Snapchat-like features. In 2014, the company updated its app so that users can send content to their friends as hidden photos or messages, which will not display until the receiver clicks on them. And, the photo or message will disappear depending on the time set by the sender.
Snapchat, King of the Teens
If all of these influential tech and internet companies have spent the better part of four years trying to emulate Snapchat, then what is it about the app that makes it so compelling? Why is everyone copying Snapchat?
Ever since its official debut in 2012, Snapchat has steadily climbed the social media ranks, having gained the top spot among teenagers over Twitter TWTR, Facebook, and even Instagram. According to Mashable, who cited a Piper Jaffray study, 6,500 U.S. teens were polled to see what they felt was the most important social network, and Snapchat took 28% of votes. Instagram came in close-second with 27%, followed by Twitter and Facebook.
Ah, so thats why: teenagers love Snapchat, and teenagers are a coveted demographic for any tech company.
Over the last year or so, Snapchat has been launching new unique feature after new unique feature, introducing things like Snapchat Discover, expanding its video and picture filter library, and partnering with events like the Oscars, where the app let its users watch live behind-the-scenes footage of the red carpet and the actual show.
Snapchat is a social, ephemeral experience that favors photos and videos over text-based media. And as the study shows, teenagers prefer this type of digital platform.
Why Snapchat Rules
But I think its more than just that. Snapchat has been consistently keeping its platform interesting and innovative, while other social media companies have more or less remained stagnant, or just copied Snapchats ideas. Snapchat is fresh, and it has created a world inhabited mostly by teenagers and young adults and their favorite brands and celebrities. No parents allowed.
Its no wonder, then, that everyone is trying to copy Snapchat. Its CEO is 26-year-old Evan Spiegel, a guy who more or less invented the app as part of a class final during his time at Stanford. Its the preferred app for any major live event or top celebrity. Above all, Snapchat is cool. Where Facebook appeals to older generations and Instagram to capturing the perfect moment, Snapchat is for everything in between.
Snapchat is for the real, or at least the real behind text, emoji, filters, and face swaps. And for most people in the social media age, and especially teenagers, real reigns supreme.
Last week, Editor Maddy Johnson and Content Writer Ryan McQueeney, hosts of the Zacks Friday Finish Line podcast, previewed Snaps IPO on their show. They were joined once again by Kathleen Smith, co-founder of Renaissance Capital, to discuss Snapchat, and if it would live up to its high, and pricey, IPO expectations.
Check it out now!
Everything You Need to Know About Snapchats IPO Now
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By Tom Miles, John Irish and Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA (Reuters) - Syria's first U.N.-led peace talks in almost a year ended on Friday without breakthrough but the United Nations mediator said the warring parties now had a clear agenda to pursue a political solution to the country's six-year-long conflict. Both sides could point to small victories. The opposition said that the question of political transition was seriously addressed for the first time, while U.N. envoy Staffan de Mistura said counter-terrorism - an issue pushed by President Bashar al-Assad's delegation - had been added to the agenda. "What I saw ... gives me some feeling that we are moving in the right direction," de Mistura told reporters at the end of eight days of talks, adding that he aimed to hold another round of indirect negotiations later this month. He said counter-terrorism had been added as a "fourth basket" to the talks, alongside efforts to establish a "credible, inclusive government", drafting a new constitution and holding free and fair elections. In theory, those issues are supposed to be addressed in a six-month time frame, but peace talks in Geneva have achieved little since they were first convened just over three years ago. "I believe...and expect that the sides should now pursue a framework agreement containing an agreed political package so that a negotiated transitional political process can be implemented as indicated by (U.N.) Resolution 2254," de Mistura said. Assad's chief negotiator Bashar al-Ja'afari left the talks without speaking to reporters. "He has terrorism, but has to engage on transition," one Western diplomat said. Terrorism has been a mantra for the Syrian government, which regards all the rebels as terrorists, and described members of the negotiating delegation on Thursday as terrorists backed by Israel, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. De Mistura said the United Nations recognised only two terrorist groups: Islamic State and the former Nusra front, once an al Qaeda affiliate. Neither is part of the U.N. peace process. MINIMAL EXPECTATIONS The talks aim to reach a political solution to a conflict which erupted in March 2011 and has killed hundreds of thousands of people and displaced many millions. They were convened last week with minimal expectations for success. "Although we are closing this round without clear results ... I can say this time was more positive," chief opposition negotiator Nasr al-Hariri said. "It was the first time we discussed in acceptable depth the future of Syria and the future of political transition in Syria. The opposition says that "political transition" means an end to nearly 50 years of Assad family rule, something the government has ruled out giving away through negotiation. Russia, seen as holding the balance of power, met both sides behind the scenes during the talks. Late on Thursday, Russian diplomats met representatives of Syrian armed groups, diplomats and opposition sources said, the second such contact in the past few days. Despite those contacts, Russia accused the main opposition of trying to sabotage the talks by refusing to unite with two smaller dissident groups which have no military muscle but have Moscow's blessing as opposition voices. Creating a unified opposition delegation is seen as the key to holding face-to-face talks, but de Mistura said he was not yet ready to do so. A Western diplomat said Russia's push to unify the opposition was an underhand tactic. Russia is trying to do that to destabilise the talks. They insist on the opposition becoming one. This is a tactic to weaken the process. I hope that Staffan can push back on it." The scope of the negotiation is much narrower than a year ago, when de Mistura also had to hear demands for a ceasefire and release of prisoners. A shaky ceasefire has been in place since December and separate talks in Kazakhstan, sponsored by Russia, Turkey and Iran, are dealing with military matters. De Mistura said the government delegation put forward a suggestion on exchanging prisoners and abducted people, which should be taken up in Astana. A new round of Astana talks is due on March 14, and Russian officials have said the Geneva negotiations could resume on March 20. (Additional reporting by Yara Abi Nader; Editing by Dominic Evans)
District Attorney Kim Ogg on Friday filed a brief supporting bail reform in the lawsuit brought against Harris County's misdemeanor judges that seeks to change the bail system.
The civil rights lawsuit, filed in federal court, is expected to go to trial Monday. Ogg, whose office is not a party to the litigation, filed a four-page amicus brief saying bail reform is necessary and long overdue.
"It makes no sense to spend public funds to house misdemeanor offenders in a high-security penal facility when the crimes themselves may not merit jail time," she wrote in the brief. "These secure beds and expensive resources should be prioritized for the truly dangerous offenders and 'flight risks' who need to be separated from the community."
Attorneys challenging the constitutionality of Harris County's pretrial bail policies are suing the county and all 16 of Harris County's misdemeanor court judges not for money, but to force change.
Tom Berg, Oggs' First Assistant, said the office is not "taking sides" but just explaining that prosecutors too support reforms.
"These are major changes that we believe are long overdue," he said.
The nonprofit Texas Fair Defense Project and a Houston law firm, Susman Godfrey and two Washington DC-based attorneys who are now with a non-profit called the Civil Rights Corps, filed the suit in May on behalf of Maranda Odonnell, a 22-year-old single mother who was jailed in 2015 after being arrested for driving without a valid license only because she could not afford to post bail.
The advocacy groups are arguing that hundreds of offenders are not released on personal bonds and are unlawfully jailed for minor offenses like trespassing and shoplifting because they are too poor to be able to afford even nominal bail payments. They are arguing the county's wealth-based pretrial detention system violates the equal protection and due process clauses of the United States Constitution.
The groups have reached settlements in about 10 other communities and continues to litigate cases in Louisiana, Georgia and several other states, according to Alec Karakatsanis, an attorney who in September formed the Civil Rights Corps.
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A driver possibly engaged in an illegal street race early Friday crashed into an innocent couple's pickup south of Houston and another driver, possibly intoxicated, ran away from a separate crash after removing license plates, police said.
A police supervisor on the scene said all occupants "miraculously" survived.
Two sedans -- a Dodge Charger and a Ford Mustang -- were traveling south on Almeda near Beltway 8 shortly after midnight "at an extremely high rate of speed," said Harris County sheriff's Sgt. S. Wolverton. "It appears that may have possibly been racing but we don't know that for sure."
After sedans struck the center median, the Charger re-entered the southbound lanes and struck a man and a woman in a red pickup, which spun off the roadway and caught fire, Wolverton said. Police don't suspect that couple was involved in any racing. They exited without major injury and went to their home.
The Mustang continued south, struck a traffic-light pole and was split apart. The car's front half skidded forward another 300 feet or so, Wolverton estimated -- apparently with the driver and a passenger still inside.
Somehow, the two Mustang occupants emerged without serious injury. Before fleeing the scene, they took off the car's license plates.
Sheriff's deputies later found the couple from the red pickup at their home, interviewed them and called for paramedics to come treat the couple's minor injuries.
Deputies also brought out a canine unit, apparently to search for a scent of the street-racing suspects.
Anyone with information in this case is asked to call the sheriff's vehicular crimes office at 281-274-7400.
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Two former San Antonio police officers were found guilty Friday on multiple counts of sexual assault and other charges after a lurid trial in which three women described how the men seduced them with the promise of money and legal favors for participating in what turned out to be a fake undercover operation.
Emmanuel Galindo, 31, was convicted of four counts of sexual assault, five counts of compelling prostitution and 12 counts of official oppression. Alejandro Chapa, 29, was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault, four counts of compelling prostitution and eight counts of official oppression.
State District Judge Steven Hilbig immediately began the punishment phase of the trial, and the wives of both men made tearful pleas for the jury to keep them out of prison.
RELATED: Photos: Driver hospitalized after 30-foot drop off Loop 1604
In closing arguments, a prosecutor had said the two former officers were criminals who lured women into having sex, displaying their badges and at one point, a gun and using official-looking police documents and application forms to make them believe their offer of payment was for a legitimate crime-fighting program.
Several young women testified this week that the officers recruited them for what they thought was an undercover sting operation that required them to play sexual roles, promising money and in some cases, help with legal problems and having them sign forms that included an agreement to have sex. Three of them said they attended training sessions where the men plied them with alcohol and promised higher payments to pressure them into sexual intercourse.
Both men resigned from the force after their arrests in 2015.
The jury left a packed courtroom to begin deliberating shortly before 11 a.m. and returned the verdict about five hours later.
RELATED: 2 men sought in shooting of woman downtown
Galindo and Chapa showed their guilty consciences by closing their phone accounts and deleting their text messages with the women messages later recovered by investigators and victims who didn't know each other told the exact same story over and over and over at the trial, prosecutor Ryan Wright told jurors.
This case isn't about morality. It's about officers luring women into having sex under the color of their authority, Wright said.
Defense attorney Leigh Cutter told jurors the state's case was riddled with reasonable doubt, as she projected on a courtroom screen three common responses by the women: I don't know, I don't recall and I can't remember.
Cutter said the women were comfortable in what they were doing, that they were never physically coerced and that the jury should not be swayed by what might be immoral, but not illegal.
You don't have to feel bad and that you have to do something, she told the jury.
No one on the jury took the judge's invitation to delay the punishment testimony.
Galindos wife, Jennifer, said the couple has been married about nine years, with two daughters, 2 and 5.
RELATED: Bandidos in S.A. indicted in slaying of alleged rival
When she heard of the allegations against her husband it was hard, she said. I was angry, but we worked through it and stayed together. he's a great father. He's a good man and has always provided for us.
Emmanuel Galindo was in the Marines and Army, was deployed and has post traumatic stress disorder, Jennifer Galindo said.
There's no way we can make it as a family without him. I promise he will never do anything like this again, she said.
Chapas wife, Nicole Chapa, said forgiving her husbandwas very, very hard but she called him a law-abiding and respectable man who now works at a restaurant to support a family on state food assistance as a result of his loss of career.
A prison term would deprive their daughters financially, emotionally, Nicole Chapa said.
My little one is five and every day she waits for him at the door, she said, sobbing. Dont take him away. They need him. I need him.
When prosecutor David Lunan asked her who caused all this pain, Nicole Chapa sobbed and said, It was my husband's fault.
Her father, Bexar County Sheriffs Deputy Juan Mireles, testified in uniform that he had known the defendant since he was in high school.
The schemer portrayed in trial testimony was not the person I know, he said.
Asked if he had forgiven Chapa for cheating on his daughter, Mireles replied, Yes, weve spoken and I believe he's been truthful to me.
Outside the courtroom, one of the victims, assigned the pseudonym Charley Rose in the indictment and in her testimony, said she would like to forgive Galindo and Chapa, adding, Not for their sake, but for mine.
I hope their families can find peace, she said calmly. I'd also like to tell every woman who's been a victim of sexual abuse that there is justice out there.
Her father died two years ago and her mother is a drug addict and possibly in jail, not part of her life, she said. At 26, divorced with two children, she has friends and a support group.
It's a a huge relief that they won't get away with it, the witness said of the men she helped convict. I think it just came down to their wanting to control women and playing us for fools.
She said she had needed the money to adopt her younger sister out of foster care, and falling for the scam made her feel used, dirty, and taken advantage of. The only thing that kept me going was my children.
Testimony in the penalty phase of the trial will continue Monday. Galindo and Chapa could get up to 20 years in prison on each count of sexual assault and compelling prostitution, both second-degree felonies. Official oppression is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail.
bselcraig@express-news.net
Four more alleged members of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club have been indicted by federal authorities and are facing charges in the killing of a man in Austin who reportedly tried to start a chapter of the California-based rival, the Hells Angels.
Anthony W. Benesh III was gunned down by a sniper in 2006 in front of his girlfriend and two children as they left Saccones Pizza in Austin.
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Former first lady Laura Bush returned to her hometown Thursday to sign copies of her newest book. More than 1,000 people came to the Midland County Public Library Centennial branch before and during the public event, according to library figures.
John Trischitti III, library director, said the appearance was a chance to bring a well-known author to West Texas.
Its the pinnacle, Trischitti said. It doesnt get much better than that. We have authors and Project Literacy every year. To bring someone like Mrs. Bush with experience and everything shes done for childrens literacy -- its a real coup.
Bush signed copies of Our Great Big Backyard, a childrens book she co-authored with her daughter, Jenna Bush Hager. Barnes and Noble representatives sold copies on-site.
Audrey Townsend came to the library and planned to share the book with her two children.
Its pretty cool to get to meet the author of a book and get to pass it on generation after generation so the kids have the signing with them, Townsend said. Shes from Midland, and you get to have your citys author here.
The public event was the second of two Bush appearances in Midland on Thursday. She spoke at Bynum Blooms, a private fundraiser for Bynum School.
Bush also spoke at Bynum Schools 25th anniversary celebration in 2009. Keri St. John, head of school, said this weeks luncheon at Midland Country Club continued the schools relationship with the former first lady.
She has been a part of Bynum for many years, St. John said. Shes a class act, and her focus points are education and literacy. We thought she would be good for our fundraiser.
In the past, Bynum Blooms was an informal event in which vocational students sold handmade items, such as jewelry, blankets and wreaths. This year, the items were available for purchase at the schools first fundraising luncheon, St. John said.
Its already been a success being sold out, St. John said in an interview on Wednesday. Bynum is growing, and our new building will be finished in 2018. Were hoping to share the word about Bynum.
Bynum School and the Midland County Public Library collaborated to plan the Midland appearances. Trischitti said he welcomed the partnership.
For nonprofits, it makes it easier to have someone on the scope and scale of Mrs. Bush, Trischitti said. She has always been great to the library. She was a librarian and has always been friendly to libraries. She came in April 2013 for the opening of the Centennial branch. We wanted to bring her back to do a signing.
Former teacher Kim Kelso valued the chance to meet Bush and expects to read Our Great Big Backyard to her grandchildren.
She has an emphasis on literacy, Kelso said. Reading makes children brighter and makes the world so much larger.
Event supporters included XTO Energy Inc., Brenda and Travis Stice, Rosalind Redfern Grover and Vicki and Javaid Anwar, according to a press release.
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WASHINGTON Attorney General Jeff Sessions recused himself from any investigation into Russian meddling in last years presidential campaign at a hastily called news conference Thursday.
He denied that he intentionally misled the Senate during his confirmation hearings about his contacts with the Russian ambassador.
His move appeared to calm jittery Republicans but did little to quell Democratic demands for his resignation.
Californias two Democratic senators, Dianne Feinstein and Kamala Harris, both of whom voted against confirming Sessions, said Thursday the attorney general had lied under oath when he told senators he hadnt met with Russian officials while working with Donald Trumps presidential campaign.
Harris joined Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and 100 House Democrats, including Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco, in calling on Sessions to resign.
At his news conference, Sessions said he had been honest and correct as I understood a question about his Russian contacts during his Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearings in January.
Feinstein, the ranking Democrat on that committee, indicated later she was satisfied with his decision to recuse himself from any Justice Department probe of the Trump campaign, her office said meaning he would give no direction to investigators with the department he runs or have any input into an inquiry.
The possibility the Trump campaign was in contact with Russian officials has been a continuing distraction for the young administration.
National security adviser Michael Flynn was forced to resign after falsely denying any dealings with Russias ambassador to Vice President Mike Pence, who then went on TV and repeated Flynns denials. Flynn later admitted hed spoken with the ambassador during the transition.
Trump, who said during the campaign that he hoped Russia could find the 30,000 emails that are missing from the personal server that campaign rival Hillary Clinton used as secretary of state, has labeled as fake news suggestions that his campaign had dealings with the Russians.
Sessions recusal came after dozens of congressional Republicans called for him to do so.
They were reacting to a Washington Post report Wednesday evening that Sessions had two meetings with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak before the election that he did not reveal under questioning at his Senate hearings. Sessions was a senator from Alabama at the time, as well as a top adviser to then-candidate Trump.
The meetings included a private get-together in September with Kislyak in Sessions Senate office, at the height of Russian cyberattacks that the Obama administration later concluded were aimed at interfering in the presidential election.
Sessions also met Kislyak more casually in July at a meeting with other ambassadors during the GOP convention.
Before Sessions announcement Thursday, Trump was asked whether his attorney general should recuse himself from any investigation.
I dont think so, the president replied.
Feinstein, who led her partys questioning of Sessions during the Judiciary Committee hearings, said of her former longtime colleague on the panel: He did not tell the truth under oath. And this happened in September, when it was widely known that there was a Russian influence program going on.
She added, I know Kislyak. Its very hard for me to find him forgettable.
Harris, who was California attorney general before winning election to the Senate in November, insisted that Sessions step down.
He did not tell the truth when he was under oath, period. Full stop, Harris said. The truth is the truth. There is no Democratic or Republican version of a fact. A fact is a fact.
Harris said Sessions experience as a former federal prosecutor and Judiciary Committee member is exactly why he should know better.
Lets also be clear the question was probative of an issue that has been debated and discussed in this Capitol now for months, so for there to be some suggestion that he didnt understand the question or what it was seeking to resolve, thats beyond believable, Harris said. He knows more than the average person that its a truth-seeking exercise when one testifies before these committees.
Holding prosecutors to a high standard is vital to our system of justice, Harris said. This is a job that is literally about having integrity that is unquestionable.
At his news conference, Sessions said he had answered honestly when responding to a question from Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., at his confirmation hearings about whether there is any evidence that anyone affiliated with the Trump campaign communicated with the Russian government in the course of this campaign.
Sessions replied that he was not aware of such activities, adding that he did not have communications with the Russians.
Sessions said Thursday that he did not think at the time the question was relevant to his September meeting as a senator with Kislyak, which he said two of his senior aides also attended. He described it as one of many meetings he had with foreign ambassadors.
In retrospect, Sessions said, he should have slowed down and mentioned his meetings with the ambassador.
He said he would write a formal letter to the Judiciary Committee to explain this testimony for the record.
Sessions said that while he appreciates how some might construe his answer as false, that was not my intent.
Trump declared his total confidence in Sessions, while saying, I wasnt aware at all of Sessions meeting with Kislyak.
Earlier in the day, dozens of Republicans had called for Sessions to recuse himself, although none went so far as to demand his resignation. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said he looked forward to Sessions letter so we can put this issue to bed once and for all.
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A federal judge denied bail Thursday to Sara Richford, charged with helping the man accused of robbing and shooting a mail carrier Feb. 11 and then shooting at pursuing law officers in the days that followed.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John Primomo found Richford, 26, a danger to the community. Bradley AHearn, 22, had been ordered held without bail last week.
The judge delayed ruling on bail for a third suspect, Piper Lee, 40, who allegedly helped Richford and AHearn three days into their alleged crime spree.
Federal agents revealed new allegations against Richford and Lee. Richford told investigators that she shot at pursuing officers during a car chase Feb. 13 as AHearn drove the wrong way on U.S. 281 while also shooting, Postal Inspector Robert Strande testified.
She said she got caught up in the moment, Strande said.
RELATED: Feds say bullets hit cars on 281 during chase
Including the officers return fire, more than 15 shots were fired before the pursuit was halted out of safety concerns, according to testimony.
Strande also said an officer identified Lee as having shot at police along with AHearn from a getaway vehicle during another wild pursuit Feb. 14 on the North Side. Lee shook his head in disagreement.
That chase lasted at least 20 minutes and left bullet casings near MacArthur High School and sent a bullet through a window and into a TV at a Jims Restaurant on Broadway, according to testimony.
Previously, authorities had alleged that AHearn, alone among the three, had done the shooting during the Feb. 11 robbery and the subsequent gun battles with officers.
Lees lawyer, Don Flanary, objected to postponing his bail hearing, which Primomo said was to allow prosecutors to amend their criminal complaint. Primomo said the complaint appeared to charge Lee with being involved in the shooting of the mail carrier, but the judge said he had heard no evidence to support that.
Primomo asked why state prosecutors didnt charge Lee for allegedly shooting at officers on Feb. 14.
They could have charged him with attempted capital murder, from what Ive heard here, Primomo said.
RELATED: Friend helped suspects elude dragnet, then ratted them out
The U.S. Postal Service mail carrier was shot in the legs in the Comal County community of Spring Branch during a robbery and carjacking. As they had at earlier hearings, federal investigators Thursday placed AHearn there with Richford and said both were at the two other crime scenes.
Strande testified Lee joined the pair on Feb. 14 and drove them in a car that the trio abandoned at North Star Mall, eluding a police dragnet with a timely ride from a friend of Richfords who later told police their hiding place. The three were arrested at a motel on the South Side on Feb. 15.
Previous testimony had revealed that one of the guns the group possessed was given to a man known as Hot Wheels Mike after they left the mall. After prodding from the judge, Strande on Thursday identified the man as Mike Murchison. Inspectors recovered the Glock handgun from Murchison on Feb. 15, and tests show it likely was used in all three shooting incidents, Strande said.
During a search of Lees apartment, stolen mail was found everywhere inside it, he said.
AHearn and Richford are charged with assault on a federal officer, carjacking, interfering with commerce by violence and mail theft. If convicted of all, they could get sentences totaling 65 years if theyre stacked.
gcontreras@express-news.net
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A woman is in critical condition at an area hospital after being shot twice in the upper body Friday morning in downtown San Antonio, police said.
The shooting occurred shortly after 11 a.m. in the 800 block of South St. Mary's Street, where a man approached a woman's vehicle before opening fire, said SAPD spokesman Douglas Greene.
He said the two may have gotten into an argument prior to the shots being fired.
The woman, who is in her 50s, was able to drive her car to a nearby repair shop and called for help.
She was transported to San Antonio Military Medical Center in critical condition, Ofc. Greene said.
RELATED: Bandidos in S.A. indicted in slaying of alleged rival
Greene said the woman was likely running on "adrenaline" and did the right thing by trying to get away from the suspect.
He said it may have been a robbery or an attempted carjacking.
Police said the suspect and a second man, both Hispanic, apparently drove a stolen white Ford pickup with temporary plates to Boerne and Florida streets, where it was abandoned. The suspects then got into a maroon vehicle and fled in an unknown direction.
Greene confirmed at least one person was involved, but they are not ruling anything out.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
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Snap Inc. just raised a greater-than-expected $3.4 billion in the largest US tech initial public offering in over two years.
Given that the typical IPO raises less than $500 million, pulling off a sale of this size takes a lot of work. Naturally, Snap drafted some heavyweight banks with huge sales forces for the job.
Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs led the deal, along with a long list of banks including the likes of JPMorgan, Allen & Company, and UBS.
But the list also includes a less familiar name: Connaught (UK) Limited.
Connaught, a small London firm set up in 2014, wasn't named in Snap's first IPO filing in early February. But it did appear in Snap's updated filing just a few days ago. It is listed as having sold 307,692 shares, worth about $5.2 million at the IPO price of $17.
There's not a lot of information out there about Connaught. It has a basic website with a mailing address and an email address. It was incorporated December 29, 2014, and has three directors: Ian Osborne, Alex Usher-Smith, and Dr. Marcel Reichart.
Osborne and Usher-Smith, ages 33 and 35, specialize in advising tech, media, and internet companies. Osborne set up Osborne & Partners, an international strategic advisory firm that once hosted a Davos, Switzerland, party with tech billionaire Sean Parker and Salesforce.com CEO Marc Benioff. Usher-Smith is a former Lazard and Greenhill banker.
Reichart is the executive vice president of digital development and partnerships at the German media company Bertelsmann, according to his LinkedIn profile.
The role on the Snap IPO is a coup for the firm, which has fewer than 10 employees, according to its LinkedIn profile. Connaught is not a US registered broker-dealer, and so any shares it sold in the US had to pass through Global Alliance Securities.
Osborne and Usher-Smith did not return messages seeking comment in time for publication.
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A Mexican lawmaker climbed atop the fence along the U.S.-Mexico border this week to prove a point to President Donald Trump his plan for building a wall that was a key promise during his campaign wouldn't work.
Braulio Guerra, a congressman from Queretaro, a few hours north of Mexico City, appears to have climbed the fence with no help Wednesday, according to photos of his excursion posted on Twitter.
Henry Coleman McGill Jr. was a man of faith, of science and of medicine. Most of all, he was a kind, upright soul.
There was not a manipulative bone in his body. My mother always accused him of being overly trusting of people, said McGills eldest daughter Margaret. He just told the truth and did what he thought was right and he thought everyone else was doing that, too, and that they didnt have these ulterior motives.
On Feb. 23, McGill died of kidney failure at his home near Canyon Lake. He was 95.
McGill was the son of a Baptist preacher who lost his job and his house in the Great Depression. Forced to raise chickens, McGill helped his father out for a year after he graduated high school before he took off on his own, Margaret McGill said.
His father didnt care if he wanted to go to college or not but Daddy, after a year, got up his nerve and defied his father. And with the help of a wealthy family from their church they helped fund his education, Margaret McGill said.
McGill trained to become a pathologist. While at Louisiana State University, he was offered and accepted the opportunity to study a dead baboon from the Audubon Zoo.
McGill found that baboons have similar internal structures to humans and he began to realize the possibilities of using baboons as test subjects to figure out how diseases developed in humans. Margaret McGill said that he and other researchers traveled to Kenya and brought back both live and dead baboons to the U.S. to study.
More Information Henry Coleman McGill Jr. Born: Oct. 1, 1921, Nashville Died: Feb. 23, 2017, Canyon Lake Preceded by: Wife Cloace Ferguson McGill; parents Henry Coleman and Thursa Lowry McGill. Survived by: Daughters Margaret McGill, Laurie McGill and Beth Dahlberg; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren. Services: A memorial service is planned for Saturday at 5 p.m. at Lake Canyon Yacht Club, 180 Yacht Club Drive, Canyon Lake, 78133. See More Collapse
They taught the baboons how to smoke, Margaret McGill said, adding that they got strongly addicted.
She stressed that he cared for the animals humanely, and that his research spun off to create treatments for premature babies.
Among his accomplishments, McGill led research into heart disease, was chair of the Department of Pathology at the UT Health Science Center and was the first Scientific Director at Texas Biomedical Research Institute.
Later in life he was an active sailor, a four-time commodore of the Lake Canyon Yacht Club, and lived on his own until the last year. His youngest daughter, Beth Dahlberg, said he shook off the notion that he should slow down.
When someone would suggest that he settle down and hire someone to do this or that, or take a rest his response was Im afraid that if I sit down I wont be able to get back up.
rdruzin@express-news.net
Yahoo Finance is tracking Ford (F) and General Motors (GM) as Mexicos Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo meets with executives from both automakers in Detroit today. The big issue theyre discussing is U.S.-Mexico trade relations and the future of the North American Free Trade agreement.
The auto sector has been in focus since President Donald Trump threatened Ford, General Motors and Toyota (TM) with a border adjustment tax on cars built in Mexico and sold in the United States. Despite Trumps threats, Ford is planning to move ahead with its plans to expand two of its plants in Mexico.
President Trump has pledged to revamp NAFTA, which went into effect in 1994, and negotiate better terms for the United States. Hes also sticking to his campaign promise of building a wall on the US-Mexico border and wants to tax items imported from Mexico.
Guajardo will also meet with officials from two auto-parts companies, which have plants in both Detroit and Mexico. Mexico is Michigans second-largest export market. It was worth $12 billion last year, according to the Mexican ministry.
For more on General Motors and Fords meetings with Mexicos economy minister, check out the Final Round, live at 4 p.m. EST, right here on Yahoo Finance.
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WASHINGTON Attorney General Jeff Sessions recused himself from any investigation into Russian meddling in last years presidential campaign at a hastily called news conference Thursday, denying that he intentionally misled the Senate during his confirmation hearings about his contacts with the Russian ambassador.
His move appeared to calm jittery Republicans, but did little to quell Democratic demands for his resignation.
Californias two Democratic senators, Dianne Feinstein and Kamala Harris, both of whom voted against confirming Sessions, said Thursday that the attorney general had lied under oath when he told senators that he hadnt met with Russian officials while working with Donald Trumps presidential campaign. Harris joined Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and 100 House Democrats, including Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco, in calling on Sessions to resign.
At his news conference, Sessions said he had been honest and correct as I understood a question about his Russian contacts during his Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearings in January.
Feinstein, the ranking Democrat on that committee, initially called for Sessions to recuse himself or step down. Her office indicated later that she was satisfied with his decision to recuse himself from any Justice Department probe of the Trump campaign meaning he would give no direction to investigators with the department he runs or have any input into an inquiry.
The possibility that the Trump campaign was in contact with Russian officials has been a continuing distraction for the young administration. National Security Adviser Michael Flynn was forced to resign after denying any dealings with Russias ambassador to Vice President Mike Pence, who then went on TV and repeated Flynns denials. Flynn later admitted that he had spoken with the ambassador during the transition.
President Trump, who said during the campaign that he hoped Russia could find the 30,000 emails that are missing from the personal server that Democratic rival Hillary Clinton used as secretary of state, has labeled as fake news suggestions that his campaign had dealings with the Russians.
Sessions recusal came after dozens of congressional Republicans called for him to do so. They were reacting to a Washington Post report Wednesday evening that Sessions had two meetings with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak before the election that he did not reveal under questioning at his Senate hearings. Sessions was a senator from Alabama at the time, as well as a top adviser to then-candidate Trump.
The meetings included a private get-together in September with Kislyak in Sessions Senate office, at the height of Russian cyberattacks that the Obama administration later concluded were aimed at interfering in the presidential election.
Sessions also met Kislyak more casually in July at a meeting with other ambassadors during the GOP convention.
Before Sessions announcement Thursday, Trump was asked whether his attorney general should recuse himself from any investigation. I dont think so, the president replied.
Feinstein, who led her partys questioning of Sessions during the Judiciary Committee hearings, said of her former longtime colleague on the panel, He did not tell the truth under oath. And this happened in September, when it was widely known that there was a Russian influence program going on.
She added, I know Kislyak. Its very hard for me to find him forgettable.
Harris, who was California attorney general before winning election to the Senate in November, insisted that Sessions step down.
He did not tell the truth when he was under oath, period. Full stop, Harris said. The truth is the truth. There is no Democratic or Republican version of a fact. A fact is a fact.
Harris said Sessions experience as a former federal prosecutor and Judiciary Committee member is exactly why he should know better.
Lets also be clear the question was probative of an issue that has been debated and discussed in this Capitol now for months, so for there to be some suggestion that he didnt understand the question or what it was seeking to resolve, thats beyond believable, Harris said. He knows more than the average person that its a truth-seeking exercise when one testifies before these committees.
Holding prosecutors to a high standard is vital to our system of justice, Harris said. This is a job that is literally about having integrity that is unquestionable.
At his news conference, Sessions said he had answered honestly when responding to a question from Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., at his confirmation hearings about whether there is any evidence that anyone affiliated with the Trump campaign communicated with the Russian government in the course of this campaign.
Sessions replied that he was not aware of such activities, adding that he did not have communications with the Russians.
Sessions said Thursday that he did not think at the time the question was relevant to his September meeting as a senator with Kislyak, which he said two of his senior aides also attended. He described it as one of many meetings he had with foreign ambassadors. In retrospect, Sessions said, he should have slowed down and mentioned his meetings with the ambassador.
He said his answer to the committee was honest and correct as I understood it at the time, adding that he would write a formal letter to the Judiciary Committee to explain this testimony for the record. Sessions said that while he appreciates how some might construe his answer as false, that was not my intent.
Trump declared his total confidence in Sessions, while saying, I wasnt aware at all of Sessions meeting with Kislyak.
Earlier in the day, dozens of Republicans had called for Sessions to recuse himself, although none went so far as to demand his resignation. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, said he looked forward to Sessions letter so we can put this issue to bed once and for all.
Rep. Devin Nunes, the Tulare Republican who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, told reporters, Look, Im sure some of you are in contact with the Russian Embassy. ... Do you want us to conduct an investigation on you or other Americans because you were talking to the Russian Embassy? I just think we need to be careful.
Pelosi, a longtime veteran of the House Intelligence Committee and among the first to demand that Sessions resign after the Washington Post story broke, did not back down.
Attorney General Sessions narrow recusal and his sorry attempt to explain away his perjury are totally inadequate, Pelosi said in a statement. He is clearly trying to maintain his ability to control the larger investigation into the sprawling personal, political and financial grip Russia has on the Trump administration.
Carolyn Lochhead is The San Francisco Chronicles Washington correspondent. Email: clochhead@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @carolynlochhead
The recent surge of large-scale development in downtown San Antonio is about to spill over for the first time into Denver Heights, a neighborhood just south of the Alamodome that struggles with urban blight and crime.
Local developer Efraim Varga and investment firm Harris Bay of Sacramento, California, plan to start work by the end of the year on Essex Modern City, a $150 million mixed-use development at the crossing of Essex and Cherry streets. The first phase of the 8-acre project will transform a former pallet manufacturing site into 80,000 square feet of creative office space, 65,000 square feet of retail, 248 apartments, 160 condominiums, 80 townhomes and a food hall, the developers said Thursday.
Its going to be a catalyst for the neighborhood, Varga said. Its going to do exactly what the Pearl did, and bring in more developers.
RELATED: Apartments planned for vacant factory on South Side
The project's first phase will take about three years to build and will cover about 5 acres, Varga said. It will be all new construction except for a small 1930s building that will be rehabilitated. The scope of the second phase will depend on the market, but the developers hope to build a condo tower between eight and 11 stories tall, he said.
Varga and his partners plan to differentiate the project from other mixed-use developments, such as the Pearl and the Lone Star Brewery, with flourishes such as a rock climbing wall, murals painted by local artists, a mobile app allowing visitors to reserve parking and vertical farms on building exteriors that would grow vegetables for use in restaurants.
The developers want to recruit local and Texas-based companies for the retail space, said Jake Harris, co-founder of Harris Bay. Their retail strategy is the opposite of the tack taken by the team redeveloping the Lone Star Brewery, which has signed up national chains such as Cinemark Holdings and Punch Bowl Social. The two developments, which are less than a mile apart, will complement each other, Harris and Varga said.
I think retail space is going to struggle if its a chain restaurant or if its something the internet can take away, Harris said. Theres a whole lot of Starbucks, CVSes and AMC movie theaters.
The developers are hoping to attract tech companies to lease the creative office space, Varga said, which would make the project part of downtown San Antonios growing tech scene. Theyre in talks with other firms that would build the multifamily portion of the project.
CREO, a local architecture firm led by Kris Feldmann, is leading the design of the project.
Essex Modern City would have a huge impact on Denver Heights, a neighborhood thats a mixture of well-kept homes, boarded-up buildings, vacant lots and small factories producing handcrafted items such as cabinets and metal work. The Alamodome has done little to revitalize the adjacent neighborhoods that are still struggling to recover from decades of neglect.
Jackie Gorman, executive director of San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside, said she expects the project to have a positive impact on the neighborhood. Shes concerned about increasing traffic and property values but said the city could work to limit those side effects. Other East Side neighborhoods, including Dignowity Hill and St. Paul Square, are also growing as developers turn their attention to the downtown area.
It will bring income diversity, Gorman said. Along with income diversity comes better amenities it seems to me that when the income levels become more diverse, schools become better.
RELATED: San Antonio development is accelerating
The projects developers plan to start holding meetings with residents soon to gather input on what types of retail the neighborhood needs and to spread awareness of ways to keep property taxes from rising too fast, Harris said.
Varga, who runs local development firm Varga Endeavors, previously teamed up with Harris Bay to build the Sunglo Urban Homes townhome development in Southtown. In 2015, he approached Harris Bays executives with the idea to build on the Denver Heights site. City Council approved zoning changes for the project last year.
Harris said he was initially skeptical of the site until he realized how close it was to Hemisfair, the Alamodome and the San Antonio River. He also gained confidence when he realized how strong the residential market was in Lavaca, a neighborhood on the other side of Interstate 37 from Denver Heights.
Were really excited for what the potential is for San Antonio, Harris said. It seems like it has kind of been the forgotten stepbrother of Texas San Antonio is prime for amazing things. Someone has to just put it out there.
rwebner@express-news.net
@rwebner
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Total Wine & More Winery Direct Partner of the Week: Stella Fiore
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Editors Note: This content is made possible by Total Wine & More. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of The San Antonio Express-News' or mySanAntonio.com's editorial staff. Learn more about our advertising products at www.hearstmediasanantonio.com.
San Antonio is home to one of the largest active and retired military populations, with thousands of military families relocating to San Antonio every year. When looking for a new home, there are a variety of factors that must be considered including cost, excellent school districts, access to amenities, and close proximity to military bases.
Alamo Heights and Terrell Hills
Located close to Fort Sam Houston, Alamo Heights and Terrell Hills neighborhoods are some of the more upscale neighborhoods in San Antonio with beautiful unique homes with charm. Not only is the area centrally located, with all active bases no more than a 25-minute drive. Terrell Hills and Alamo Heights it is a consistently safe area and boasts some of the best public schools in town. It is also within a very short distance of great shopping and dining amenities.
Kirby Neighborhood and Converse Neighborhood
Kirby and Converse, some of the more reasonably priced San Antonio real estate, is only 5 minutes away from Randolph Air Force Base and a quick drive to downtown. Not only does the area offer a reasonable commute, but it also has a number of options for schools, including Judson Early College Academy, which has been rated as a high achieving and challenging institution.
Sea World Area and Westover Hills Neighborhood
Similarly to Kirby and Converse, the Sea World and Westover Hills neighborhoods are a great option for military families stationed at Lackland Air Force Base. It is a quick drive to both Ingram Park Mall and La Cantera shopping malls.
DeZavala and IH-10 Neighborhood
DeZavala and IH-10 is a great location for those stationed at Camp Bullis. Also like the Alamo Heights and Terrell Hills area, it has access to some of the best public schools in San Antonio and is near both La Cantera and Huebner Oaks shopping centers. As one of the biggest military cities in the United States, San Antonio offers a number of great real estate options for families relocating to the area. There are many factors to take into consideration, but Alamo Heights and Terrell Hills, Kirby and Converse, Sea World and Westover Hills, and DeZavala and IH-10 are all exceptional options for military families moving to San Antonio.
Editors Note: This content is made possible by Keller Williams San Antonio. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of The San Antonio Express-News' or mySanAntonio.com's editorial staff. Learn more about our advertising products at www.hearstmediasanantonio.com.
Wingz, the peer-to-peer private car service that offers scheduled and flat-rate rides, officially began offering its service in San Antonio early last week. The San Francisco-based startup will give rides as a TNC (Transportation Network Company) at San Antonio International Airport as well as trips around San Antonio, all with drivers who can be favorited and used for future rides.
Until March 31, Wingz is offering an introductory promotion of 50 percent off rides in the city for first-time customers (with a maximum of $20 in savings per ride). For every new rider who uses the platform, Wingz plans to donate $2 to our local Meals on Wheels chapter.
We always want to give back to the local communities that we join said Chris Brandon, CEO of Wingz. We partnered with Meals on Wheels in Dallas and Houston last year, and supporting the same organization in San Antonio was a natural fit.
Unlike other rideshare companies, Wingz is not an on-demand car service: Riders can schedule their rides from up to two months in advance. Wingz places an added emphasis on their drivers, who go through a more selective onboarding process than the traditional rideshare companies and can be added to users personalized list of favorite drivers.
Our goal at Wingz is to bring consumers a highly reliable and personalized driver experience, emphasizes Brandon. You know everything about your ride in advance: the price, the car and, more importantly, the person behind the wheel. Having a driver you know, like and trust makes all the difference in the world.
Although theyre a smaller service (relative to other giants in the industry), Wingz has maintained a loyal following wherever theyve landed.
My driver Theresa in Seattle has been like a family member or friend driving and picking me up, explains Sara Seabourne, a frequent Wingz rider. As a female and a mom, I feel safe with her when I travel alone and with my kids.
Wingz executed a pair of similar promotions last year in Austin and Dallas, donating the fares of their rides to the local Caritas non-profit in the former and the Meals on Wheels chapter for the latter.
The team at Meals on Wheels San Antonio provided 1,013,561 meals to 3,555 seniors in Bexar County last year and has been gaining steam since their founding in 1977. It enables seniors to remain more healthy and independent in their own homes, helping avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency room or a nursing home placement.
We are thankful that Wingz chose to support Meals on Wheels San Antonio, said Vinsen Faris, Chief Executive Officer, Meals on Wheels San Antonio. Their donation will directly impact the lives of seniors in need within the San Antonio community.
Wingz backed by Expedia, Altimeter Capital and Salesforce.com CEO Marc Benioff is primed to continue to onboard more drivers as the demand for its rides grows in Texas second-largest city.
Editors Note: This content is made possible by Wingz. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of The San Antonio Express-News' or mySanAntonio.com's editorial staff. Learn more about our advertising products at www.hearstmediasanantonio.com.
SANTA FE The New Mexican Senate overwhelmingly approved a measure that would raise the states minimum wage from $7.50 per hour to $9, the Albuquerque Journal reports. The change would impact mostly rural areas because Albuquerque, Las Cruces and Santa Fe all have higher minimum wages, with Santa Fes as the highest at $11.08 per hour.
Sen. Clemente Sanchez, who introduced the bill, said he garnered support from businesses in crafting the proposal. The truth is that working people really need a livable wage, Sanchez said. I think this is reasonable.
With such bipartisan support on the bill, its likely it will clear the House and head for Gov. Susana Martinezs desk. Whether she will sign it before the end of the legislative term on March 18 is unclear. The governor supports raising the minimum wage as long as its in line with neighboring states and doesnt hurt small businesses, said Michael Lonergan, the governors spokesman.
Of the surrounding states, Arizona and Colorado have minimum wages above $9 an hour, while Oklahoma, Texas and Utah follow the federal minimum wage of $7.75 per hour. New Mexicos minimum wage legislation will stagger the implementation: $8.25 in October 2017, then $9 in April 2018.
President Trump had plenty to say Tuesday night before Congress about increased spending on defense, new infrastructure, a $23 billion wall along the southern border with Mexico and billions of dollars more for steep tax cuts but nary a word about the looming $20 trillion national debt.
After frequent references to the historic flow of government red ink throughout his campaign, Trump was stone silent yesterday on the challenges of slowing the growth of publicly held debt, which currently is on track to grow to 77 percent of the overall economy by 2025, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
Related: Trumps Lofty Vision of Renewal Comes with a Huge Price Tag
Thats pretty remarkable, said Robert L. Bixby, executive director of the Concord Coalition, an anti-deficit watchdog. He should have at least teed up the problem and talked about the need for hard choices and bipartisan negotiations . . . and how he wants to put the nation in a better fiscal position.
There are any number of reasons Trump may have decided to duck the subject of the debt, including a reluctance to have to explain to conservatives his campaign pledge not to cut Social Security and Medicare, the two premier federal entitlements that are the primary drivers of the long-term debt.
Yet a debate over entitlements and the long term debt will be unavoidable this year, especially when the government begins bumping up against its limit on borrowing to cover revenue shortages and must raise the debt ceiling or suffer the consequences of a first-ever default by the Treasury.
Raising the debt ceiling has always been a politically onerous task because neither party wants to be perceived by voters as accommodating runaway government spending. New debt ceiling authority almost always is decided in tandem with other major spending and tax disputes. And the party in power frequently must make concessions to the minority in order to corral enough votes to pass the debt ceiling legislation in the two chambers.
Story continues
Related: Putting Trumps Historic $54 Billion Military Spending Boost Into Context
The stakes couldnt be higher: Failure to raise the debt ceiling would do irreversible damage to the U.S. credit rating, trigger an uproar in U.S. and global markets, drive up the future cost of borrowing, postpone Social Security payments and tax returns, and force layoffs of non-essential government workers.
It would be the kind of damaging blow to the U.S. economy that might not be correctible for a decade, said Stan Collender, an authority on the federal budget and an economics blogger for Forbes. After 250 years of the U.S. history, making interest payments on the debt was never a question. It would now be something that was at least in the back of the minds of all U.S. creditors.
The Obama administration had several near misses on raising the debt ceiling during its stormy relations with congressional Republicans. In August 2011, Standard & Poors downgraded the governments Triple-A rating after Congress and the White House deadlocked for weeks over a budget deal, and the Treasury came within an eyelash of defaulting. It took the intervention of Vice President Joe Biden and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, two long-time friends, to save the day and avert an economic crisis.
In 2015, President Obama and Republican congressional leaders agreed to suspend the federal debt ceiling until March 15, 2017. After that date barely two weeks from now the Treasury will surpass its cumulative $20 trillion borrowing authority.
At that point, newly ensconced Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin is expected to order emergency measures to effectively buy more time for the government to pay its creditors and cover revenue shortfalls to keep the government operating.
Related: Debt Ceiling: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?
In the past, those emergency maneuvers have included delaying the reinvestment of assets in the Federal Employees Retirement System G-Fund, the Exchange Stabilization Fund and the civil service and postal retirement fund. By postponing those reinvestments, the Treasury slows the growth of its overall debt, or at least on paper.
Those steps would likely enable the Treasury to continue making all payments until at least mid-August, but it's unclear what would happen beyond then, according to Shai Akabas, the director of fiscal policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center and an expert on the debt ceiling.
The Trump administration and GOP leaders have yet to reveal their strategy for averting a debt ceiling crisis this summer, and its far from clear whether Senate and House Democrats will agree to cooperate or find ways to put up obstacles to increasing the Treasurys borrowing authority.
Trump raised plenty of eyebrows during the campaign by lightly dismissing the importance of the debt ceiling. He suggested that if push came to shove, he would negotiate down the debt with the countrys biggest creditors, who include China and Japan.
Former Rep. Mick Mulvaney of South Carolina, the new director of the Office of Management and Budget, has long been a skeptic of the dangers of the Treasury defaulting on some of its debt.
Related: Mnuchin Says He Takes the Debt Ceiling More Seriously Than Trump
He said during his Senate confirmation hearing that while defaulting on Americas debts would have grave worldwide economic consequences, I do not believe that breaching the debt ceiling will automatically or inevitably lead to that result. Thats because Mulvaney and other conservatives contend that the government can prioritize its payments, with the biggest and most important creditor getting paid first while others would have to wait.
However, Mnuchin, the former Goldman Sachs banker and billionaire hedge fund manager, doused the concerns of lawmakers that Trump and Mulvaney might play games with the debt during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee in January.
It was then that Mnuchin told Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) that he agreed 100 percent that Trump must never again question Americas willingness to stand by its debt obligation.
Top Reads from The Fiscal Times:
Find the newest releases to watch from National Geographic on Disney+, including favourite documentary series and films Free Solo, The Rescue, Shark Beach with Chris Hemsworth and The World According to Jeff Goldblum.
A number of men who received sentences of up to 20 years imprisonment for an aggravated burglary in Tipperary have moved to appeal the severity of their sentences.
Dublin residents Patrick Gately (29), with an address at Primrose Grove, Darndale, Dean Byrne (23), of Cabra Park, Dublin 17, John Joyce (22), Lentisk Lawn, Donaghmede, Patrick Joyce (24), of Beaumont Hall, Beaumont Woods and Thomas Flynn (22), of Moatview Avenue, Coolock were among seven men who pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary at the home of the Corcoran family in south Tipperary on November 21, 2013.
Sentences of 20 years imprisonment with the final four suspended were handed down to Gately and Dean Byrne; John Joyce was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment with the final four suspended; Patrick Joyce was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment with the final four suspended and Thomas Flynn received a 12 year sentence made consecutive to a sentence already being served.
The men were sentenced by Judge Thomas Teehan at Clonmel Circuit Criminal Court on October 1, 2015.
All five men brought appeals against the severity of their sentences in the Court of Appeal on Thursday where the three-judge court reserved judgment.
Counsel for Gately, Vincent Heneghan SC, said it could be inferred that the Circuit Court judge picked 12 years as the starting point for what occurred in the house. That being so, he seemed to attach a great deal of weight to the reckless driving or hot pursuit, which Byrne and Gately were involved in subsequently.
Mr Heneghan said nobody could find a comparable case of aggravated burglary but in manslaughter cases, for example, he said 20 years would be out of line.
He said his client's childhood and adolescence had been chaotic, there was an early plea and an expression of remorse.
Counsel for Byrne, Conor Devally SC, said there was slim enough evidence concerning his client about what happened in the house.
He said Byrne was brought into this event through his expertise in stealing cars; That was his background from an early age.
Byrne was involved in the taking of illicit drugs from the age of eight or nine and was removed from the family home at the age of 11 or 12.
From then on he was nothing other than a terror on society who amassed a significant number of criminal convictions, something in excess of 80, generally through joyriding as a teen., Mr Devally said.
Mr Devally said his client got a 20-year headline sentence which was in excess of the average life term. He said the sentencing judge differentiated between the parties in a way that was difficult for the Court of Appeal to determine.
Counsel for Patrick Joyce, Colman Cody SC, said all five men were equally culpable for what happened in the house but different headline sentence were imposed.
Mr Cody submitted that the Circuit Court judge erred in placing the offence in the highest category to which Mr Justice George Birmingham said he could only react with surprise given the appalling nature of the offence.
Counsel for Thomas Flynn, Michael Bowman SC, said his client was 19 at the time of the offence, would be approaching 30 by the time he concludes his imprisonment and his suspended sentence would hang over him until he was 40.
Mr Bowman said Flynn was a young man with certain psychological frailties. He had failed to appear in court before lunch because he had been overcome with anxiety, the court was told.
Mr Bowman said it was difficult to see how the Circuit Court gave full appreciation for Flynn's guilty plea, expression of remorse and the rehabilitative efforts he had gone through while in custody.
He said his client got the lowest discount of three years which was the lowest recognition for the manner in which he approached the case.
Counsel for John Joyce, Padraig Dwyer SC, said his client was the youngest of the offenders. He said John Joyce's extremely low level of cognisance together with his hearing difficulties was a double handicap.
He had a tremendously difficult childhood and came before the Circuit Court as an enormously disadvantaged young offender.
Although John Joyce had 55 previous convicions, Mr Dwyer said none of them compared to the severity of this offence.
He said the Circuit Court noted John Joyce's remorse as being deep and genuine, Mr Dwyer said.
Mr Dwyer said it was difficult to see how John Joyce was given 15 years as a starting point in circumstances where his brother got one year less.
Cousnel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Michael Delaney SC, said it was difficult to find a case of aggravated burglary of comparable gravity.
Among the aggravating factors were the machete, the firearms, the restraint with cable ties, the threats to kill the children, the threats to shove a screwdriver up the nose of Mr Corcoran.
There was the serious assault on Mr Corcoran, the injuries of which, continue to affect him. Three very young children were subjected to a terrifying ordeal. There were at least six raiders who entered the home which must have added to the fear and apprehension of the Corcorans particularly the children.
But the the most significant aggravating factor, Mr Delaney said, was the affect on each of the five members of the Corcoran family.
It was a catalogue of horrors, before they left the house, Mr Justice John Edwards remarked.
Mr Delaney further submitted that at least three Constitutional rights were breached and the State had a duty to protect and vindicate those rights. That must extend to include an element of general deterrance, he said.
Finally, Mr Delaney said it would have been preferable if the sentencing judge had not made a remark about remission because such comments are always open to interpretation.
The sentencing judge had said the length of the sentences were likely to be somewhat less than the sentences he was imposing due to remission.
Mr Delaney said it was a post-script comment and there was nothing to indicate that the trial judge had increased the sentences to take account of the likelihood of remission.
Mr Justice George Birmingham, who sat with Mr Justice John Edwards and Mr Justice John Hedigan, said the court would reserve judgment.
Irish Water and Tipperary County Council today marked the official opening of the Burncourt Water Supply Scheme which will deliver a high quality and reliable water supply for over 3,500 local customers whilst also supporting current and future development in the area.
The new water treatment plant in Burncourt was developed as part of a 15.2 million investment by Irish Water in South Tipperary, which also included the upgrade of the Fethard Water Supply Scheme.
Minister of State for Housing and Urban Renewal, Damien English TD unveiled a plaque at the new water treatment plant this Friday.
The Burncourt Water Supply Scheme involved the construction of a new 2,600 cubic metres per day water treatment plant, a 2,600 cubic metre reservoir, approximately 5km of pipelines and ancillary works. The new plant features robust design, using proven technology for the treatment and monitoring of water quality to ensure that customers in the area can enjoy a safe and secure water supply.
As a result of the upgrade works carried out, the Burncourt Water Supply Scheme has now been removed from the Environmental Protection Agencys Remedial Action List (RAL), along with the Cloran and Gortnapisha schemes.
Speaking at the opening, Katherine Walshe, Regional Operations Manager with Irish Water, said: We are delighted to be officially opening the Burncourt Water Supply Scheme today. Providing a safe and secure water supply for the local community is a key objective for Irish Water. The upgrade of this water supply scheme will have significant benefits in terms of security, quality and reliability of supply for all our customers in the area.
As a result of this work, a number of long-running boil water notices have been lifted and over 15,700 people served by the Burncourt, Gortnapisha and Cloran schemes have been removed from the EPAs Remedial Action List.
Minister English commented: This investment by Irish Water in the Burncourt Water Supply Scheme means that the people living in this part of South Tipperary now have access to a high quality, secure and reliable water supply something that is essential for any community and which should not be taken for granted.
Not only will this benefit local residents and businesses but, combined with the upgrade of the Fethard Water Supply Scheme, it will also greatly enhance the potential for future social and economic development in this region.
Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, Cllr Siobhan Ambrose, said: On behalf of Tipperary County Council I welcome this investment in the Burncourt Water Supply Scheme. This upgrade is essential in order to provide a safe and secure water supply for the people of the area, and to enhance economic and agricultural development.
I am particularly pleased to note that this work has led to the lifting of the boil water notice which had been in place for Burncourt and its subsequent removal, along with Gortnapisha and Cloran, from the EPAs Remedial Action List.
This project forms part of Irish Waters investment plan where works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues in line with commitments outlined in Irish Waters business plan. Delivery of the business plan will involve a 5.5bn investment in capital spending on drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and new infrastructure up to 2021.
Other significant investments by Irish Water in Co Tipperary include the replacement of 8.5km of watermain in the Fethard Regional Water Supply Scheme; investment to improve water quality and reduce leakage on the scheme serving Temple-Etney, Killurney, Graigue and Ballypatrick; progress of the Thurles Regional Water Supply Scheme; and an upgrade of the Clonmel Water Supply Scheme and associated storage.
A bus workers trade union leader appealed to Tipperary's TDs at a public meeting in Clonmel last night to use their political influence to secure a moratorium on Bus Eireann's plan to axe its Clonmel to Dublin express route services from March 12.
National Bus & Rail Union General Secretary Dermot O'Leary issued the call at the Save Our Bus Service public meeting in the Clonmel Park Hotel, which was attended by more than 100 people including four of Tipperary's five TDs, Tipperary Co. Council Chairperson Cllr Siobhan Ambrose and councillors from the Clonmel Borough and Carrick-on-Suir Municipal Districts.
Deputies Seamus Healy (Ind), Mattie McGrath (Ind), Michael Lowry (Ind) and Jackie Cahill (FF) along with Kilkenny Sinn Fein TD Kathleen Funchion all pledged to do what they could in the corridors of power in Leinster House to save the X7 route that operates about 8 services daily between Clonmel and Dublin.
Deputy Funchion proposed that the five TDs from Tipperary along with the TDs from Carlow/Kilkenny constituency join forces and raise the issue in the Dail with the sole aim of getting the bus route closure stopped. "Strength in numbers there would be difficult to ignore," she declared.
TDs from both constituencies are today (Friday) working to ensure they can raise the bus route closure during Topical Issues time in the Dail next Tuesday morning, March 7 and call for the moratorium.The Minister for Transport will have to respond to them if the matter is raised under Topical Issues.
The public meeting took place against the backdrop of an impending strike by Bus Eireann staff due to start on Monday over cut backs the firm wants to impose to staff wages and conditions along with cut backs in bus services.
Anger and frustration was voiced by bus users, Bus Eireann drivers, NBRU leaders and local politicians at the meeting over the announcement earlier this week that the Clonmel/Dublin bus service is to close from March 12. The closure was denounced by several speakers as another as another attack on rural Ireland's infrastructure and services.
Mr O'Leary said he was still in a state of shock at Bus Eireann's announcement . "I didn't expect to be standing here talking about a route closure in two weeks. I thought I would be talking about a route that may close," he said.
The meeting heard how the Clonmel/Dublin service was used by residents of Carrick-on-Suir's Camphill Community to travel to Camphill in Callan daily and was also vital for cancer patients and other sick people, without private transport, for travelling to hospital appointments in Dublin.
Read full report on the public meeting and update on the campaign to stop the axing of the Bus Eireann Clonmel/Dublin route in The Nationalist out next Wednesday, March 8.
Synagogue is the house of prayer of the Jews; they are consecrated spaces used for the purpose of prayer, Tanakh reading, study and assembly. A synagogue is not necessary for worship; the Halakha(Jewish law) holds that the communal worship can be carried out wherever 10 jews assemble.
At present there are 33 synagogues in India. Although many are no longer functioning, and they are all in various stages of preservation. These buildings dating from the mid 16th century through mid 20th century once served the three distinct Jewish groups namely the ancient Cochin Jews, Bene Israel and Baghdadi Jews.
The Paradesi Synagogue is one of the seven synagogues in Kerala and the only one still functional.
Also Read : Kochi - Where Ancient And New Came Together
The Location
The synagogue is located in Mattancherry near Fort Kochi. Both Fort Kochi and Mattanchery hold a very important place in the books of history. It around 13 km from Ernakulam town, and one can reach the synagogue via the ferry or by road from the town.
More About The Place
The synagogue was constructed in the year 1568 and is one of the seven synagogues of the Cochin Jewish Community or the Yehudan Mappilar people.
'Paradesi' means foreigner, and the synagogue is called so as it was built by Spanish-speaking Jews, some of them are from families exiled from Aleppo and other West Asian locations.
The Yehudan Mappilar formed a very prosperous trading community of Kerala and they controlled a major portion of the worldwide spice trade. In 1568, the Jews constructed the Paradesi Synagogue adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace, on the land given to them by the Raja of Kochi.
The original synagogue was built in the 4th century in Kodungallur or Cranganore(anglicised name) when the Jews had a mercantile role along the Malabar coast. When the community moved to Kochi in the 14th century, a new synagogue was built.
The first synagogue was destroyed in the 16th century by the Portuguese persecution of the Jews and Nasrani or St Thomas Christians. The second one was built under the protection of the Raja of Kochi in Mattancherry, in 1568 during the Portuguese rule of Cochin which is the present structure.
The Classes Of Members
PC : Deepujoseph
The Paradesi Synagogue had three classes of members namely White Jews or Paradesi Jews, who were the descendants of Sephardi from Spain, Portugal and Netherlands.
The second were the Black Jews or Malabari Jews, who were allowed to worship but were not given full membership. The third was Meshuchrarim, who were a group of freed slaves, they had no communal rights and no synagogue of their own.
At Present
PC: Wouter Hagens
The Paradesi Synagogue is the only functioning synagogue in Kochi with a minyan(a quorum of ten men over the age of 13 required for traditional Jewish public worship). Alongside the traditions followed by Hindus, the worshippers or anyone entering the synagogue must enter barefoot.
The synagogue is open to the public as a historic attraction, by paying a nominal fee. The ticket seller is the last female Paradesi Jew of childbearing age.
The synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and also on Jewish holidays.
Antique Elements, Architecture And Ambience
PC : Jean-Pierre Dalbera
The large main hall grabs your attention with its display of rare antique objects which adds on to the grandeur of the place. The open windows make the sight of the chandeliers and lamps more attractive.The glass chandeliers belong to the 19th century and were imported from Belgium.
The floor of the synagogue itself is a wonderful artwork, the floor is paved with hand painted blue willow patterned floor tiles. The ceramic tiles were brought from China in the 18th century by Ezekiel Rahabi, a renowned Jewish businessman.
Pc : Robin Klein
Each tile is different from one another in its design and always captures the admiration of the visitors. A valuable possession of the synagogue is the copper plate that belong to the 4th century with inscriptions in Malayalam.
Outside the synagogue, one can see the cemetery of the jews, who once lived here and an 18th century clock tower, which was restored during 1998-99 and indicates the time accurately.
Also Read : More About Kochi Tourism
Visiting Time
Morning: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Photography is not permitted inside the synagogue, visitors are requested to be dressed modestly while visiting the synagogue as it is a place of worship.
Thursday, March 02, 2017 by: Vicki Batts Tags: beverage industry , Drought , India , water This article may contain statements that reflect the opinion of the author
(Natural News) Over a million traders in India have declared that they will be boycotting Coca-Cola, and other beverage giants like PepsiCo, for their exploitation of the countrys water resources. Activists say that in areas like drought-stricken Tamil Nadu, the water use of these big beverage companies is simply unsustainable. Two Indian trade associations are credited with bringing this grave matter to light and prompting the boycott.
Tamil Nadu is a state in southern India that boasts a population larger than that of the United Kingdom. The state declared all of its districts as drought-hit in January 2017. It is no surprise that the people are angry with big beverage businesses: farmers are committing suicide and are dealing with massive crop failure, meanwhile these corporations are reportedly sucking up 400 liters of water to produce a single liter of soda.
Traders from Tamil Nadu say that they plan on replacing big name brand sodas with soft drinks that are produced locally. These foreign companies are using up scarce water resources of the state, says K. Mohan, secretary for Vanigar Sangam, an association that supports the boycott.
The Guardian reports that the president of Vanigar Sangam, Vikram Raja, stated, [Foreign companies] are exploiting the states water bodies to manufacture aerated drinks while farmers were facing severe drought.
Because of the low amount of rainfall during the last monsoon, concerns about the extreme amounts of water used by companies like Coca-Cola began to grow. Amit Srivastava, director at the NGO India Resource Reserve Center, estimates that the amount of water needed to grow sugarcane for the soft drinks is included in their water usage. It adds up to an astronomical 400 liters of water just to produce a one-liter bottle of soda.
Srivastava believes that that the demand for both sugar and water to create these fizzy drinks is very problematic for India. Sugarcane is a water-guzzling crop. It is the wrong crop for India, he stated.
Last year, in November, the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court granted an interim injunction against Coca-Cola and PepsiCo to restrain the corporations from taking water out of the Thamirabarani River. Tirunelveli District Consumer Protection Association secretary Dr. Prabakar had filed a petition against the beverage giants. The petition demanded a ban on the companies use of water from the Thamirabarani River
The petitioners counsel noted that the river is essential for agriculture and the livelihood of the people who live nearby and that corporate use of the water was negatively effecting those residents and agricultural endeavors. The government countered with affidavits that claim only surplus water is given to the corporations. Its hard to imagine that there is a surplus in an area of the country that was just declared to be in a state of drought, but, unsurprisingly, the court chose to dismiss the petitions.
In spite of the courts dismissal, Indian trade associations have shown that they will not be so easily taken down. Shopkeepers in Tamil Nadu reportedly began removing Coca-Cola- and Pepsi-brand sodas from their shelves at the beginning of March.
The Indian Beverage Association is reportedly displeased with the boycott; given that the organization represents may large beverage associations, their disapproval is not unexpected. The beverage industry isnt exactly known for their sympathetic business practices, and it stands to reason that their trade organization would be no different.
Water is one of the Earths most precious resources. Sadly, many corporations and their patsies only see water as a commodity to be used for profit.
Sources:
TheGuardian.com
BBC.com
TheHindu.com
TimesOfIndia.IndiaTimes.com
(Natural News) The destruction of the Oroville dams main and emergency spillways made major headlines early on in 2017. Some 188,000 Californian citizens were left with no choice but to leave their homes and evacuate. Fortunately, the dam held up and the residents were able to return home safely. However, the damage left behind is no less devastating even if the sensation of urgency surrounding the dam has subsided.
At the peak of the crisis, it became very evident that the dams major spillway had become severely damaged. As dam operators used the main spillway to control the depth of Lake Oroville, a gigantic hole formed in the middle of the chute, and water began rushing down through the soil beneath.
This led them to turn to the emergency spillway for relief but it too began to erode away, prompting the evacuation order. The emergency spillway was reportedly comprised of nothing but bare earth, and as Mike Adams explained, it is simply not surprising that gallons upon gallons of surging water would quickly cut through dirt and erode the spillway.
Not one but three separate environmental groups reportedly expressed their concerns about the stability of the emergency spillway. Twelve years ago in 2005, the Sierra Club, the Friends of the River, and South Yuba Citizens League filed a motion with the federal government to require the Oroville dam to be armored with concrete, rather than remain as an earthen hillside, as part of the re-licensing agreement.
These urges were ignored by the government. And you know what they say: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And as the water came pouring down, the Californian government chose to drop sandbags from the sky in the hopes of quelling the raging current.
Now, the Oroville dam and emergency spillway are essentially in a state of ruin. Water flowing from the broken spillway created an enormous ravine just south of the spillway, headed towards the dam. Rocks, trees, dirt and other debris pushed around by massive current of water mostly ended up in the Diversion Pool. State Department of Water Resources spokesperson Lauren Bisnett has said that the department estimates that there is currently up to 1 million cubic yards of debris that made its way into the pool.
To put that in perspective, Mercury News writer Risa Johnson says that based on the average truckload of 18 cubic yards of material, the state is looking at around 55,556 truckloads of debris to be cleaned up.
Bisnett reportedly commented, We knew there was going to be significant damage. Erosion measurements in and around the spillway are still being conducted.
Aerial photos and video of the dam show that the lower portion of the emergency spillway has been ripped to shreds and that an enormous crater was formed in the center of the main spillway.
Gizmodo reports that the spillway was supposed to be able to handle 250,000 cubic feet of water per second (cfs), but notes that when the midsection collapsed when a mere 55,000 cfs were passing through it. There are many theories on what would have caused the collapse beginning to emerge. David Rogers, a dam failure expert from Missouri, has suggested that the spillway may have had cracks that were not tended to properly. He also posited that Californias state of drought may have contributed to it. According to the Sacramento Bee, Rogers has said it is possible that the aging spillway could have weakened as it underwent contractions due to the sudden heavy soaking following years of dry weather.
The damage is clearly extensive, whatever the cause. And certainly the damage that pertains to the emergency spillway might have been mitigated, had officials listened to the safety concerns brought to their attention over a decade ago. But, we all know the government is loath to listen to the concerns of their constituents.
Follow more real investigations at RealInvestigations.news.
Sources:
SHTFPlan.com
NaturalNews.com
MercuryNews.com
(Natural News) A tidal wave of new bills has flooded 35 states in the U.S., threatening to either limit or completely eradicate vaccine exemptions. Clearly health freedom and informed consent is undergoing full frontal assualt right now. Please read, share, and take action accordingly.
(Article by Jefferey Jaxen from GreenMedInfo.com)
In 2015 California signed into law the highly contested Senate Bill 277 (SB277) accomplishing two outcomes. First, the bill eliminated the personal belief exemption for vaccination. Second, the bills actionable directives served as a sobering wake up call that mobilized the public and medical community to enter the fight for an evaporating health freedom and informed consent.
Yet, despite multiple whistleblowers within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) spotlighting research corruption and pharmaceutical industry collusion, over $3 billion dollars paid out in vaccine damages by the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, widespread vaccine contamination, and overall ineffectiveness and dangers of the current vaccine schedule there has now been 134 vaccine bills introduced in 35 states in the first seven weeks of the US legislative session.
According to the National Vaccine Information Centers (NVIC) Advocacy Teamwho track vaccine-related bills, 31 new bills have been added since the teams last update two weeks prior. Eight of these new bills are in five states appearing for the first time. The coordinated legislative push represents nothing short of a full frontal onslaught by pharmaceutical companies, working through their lobbied politicians, to force dangerous vaccine products upon the backs of the entire US population.
Looking deeper into the tidal wave of vaccine-related legislation sees eight states, deemed priority opposition alert states by NVIC, proposing bills to restrict or eliminate vaccine exemptions altogether. Similar to Californias new normal thanks to SB277, legislators in Connecticut, Iowa, Minnesota, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Utah are now hoping to remove and impede pillars of health freedom and parental choice.
Read more at: GreenMedInfo.com
Friday, March 03, 2017 by: Lance D Johanson Tags: cancer , corruption , EPA , glyphosate , Monsanto This article may contain statements that reflect the opinion of the author
(Natural News) A multi-district cancer lawsuit is currently underway in San Francisco, California. The suit alleges that Monsanto failed to warn the public about Roundups cancer risk to humans. Sixty plaintiffs, many suffering from non-Hodgkins lymphoma, are accusing Monsanto of covering up evidence that Roundup herbicide could cause cancer. A former EPA official, Jess Rowland, is set to testify in the case and could reveal the EPAs buried science linking Roundup (glyphosate) to cancer.
U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria is looking forward to Rowlands deposition: My reaction is when you consider the relevance of the EPAs reports, and you consider their relevance to this litigation, it seems appropriate to take Jess Rowlands deposition, he said.
Due to regulatory concerns, this case is currently holding Monsanto back from a $66 billion mega merger with German pharmaceutical company, Bayer AG.
What will Rowlands deposition uncover?
According to Bloomberg, the plaintiffs lawyers see Rowlands upcoming deposition as a potential trap, mainly because Rowland enjoyed a highly suspicious relationship with Monsanto through the years. The plaintiffs attorneys are concerned that Rowland could remain silent, not disclosing evidence of Roundups cancer link. After all, Rowland is a close ally to Monsanto and the chair of an EPA committee that gave glyphosate a free pass.
In May 2016, Rowland chaired the EPAs Cancer Assessment Review Committee (CARC). At the time, CARC determined that glyphosate was not likely to be carcinogenic to humans. Suspiciously, Rowland left her chair position just days after CARCs pro-glyphosate report was leaked to the press.
The mainstream media used CARCs pro-glyphosate conclusion as a rebuttal to the contrasting scientific conclusion that was reached a year earlier at the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This independent team of scientists (IARC) had previously reported through the World Health Organization that glyphosate was a probable human carcinogen.
Glyphosate toxicity to humans: an overview explains that the chemical disrupts the shikimate pathway of both plants and important microorganisms in the human gut and can even accumulate in bones. Glyphosate scientists Dr. Channa Jayasumana, wrote that Glyphosate acts as a carrier or a vector of these heavy metals to the kidney. By disabling protective gut microorganisms, glyphosate becomes a vector, by which other toxins weaken ones immunity. For this reason, Sri Lankas president banned herbicides containing glyphosate in 2014. (RELATED: For more, visit Glyphosate.News)
Warring factions inside the EPA and buried evidence on glyphosate toxicity
When IARCs findings came out on glyphosate, Monsanto insisted that glyphosate was 100 percent safe with no link to cancer. Not long thereafter, Rowlands pro-glyphosate conclusion came out through CARC. According to US Right to Know, Monsanto shared close ties with Rowland. Even after leaving CARC, Rowland continued to work as the deputy division director in the EPAs Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP). Working with Rowland, Monsanto could readily control the scientific conclusions for agrochemicals, especially since Rowland operated within the health effects division of the OPP.
Marion Copley, an EPA scientist of 30 years, has accused Rowland of playing political conniving games with the science to give favor to Monsanto and other pesticide companies. Correspondence dated March 4, 2013, taken from a February 10th court filing, found Copley calling Rowland out for intimidation tactics. Copley said Rowland and another EPA official intimidated staff to change the reports on glyphosate findings. It is essentially certain that glyphosate causes cancer, Copley stated, citing various animal studies that have been buried.
Sources include:
EcoWatch.com
EcoWatch.com
Drive.Google.com
(Natural News) During the first three weeks of the 2003 Iraq conflict, the U.S. military committed egregious war crimes using radioactive weapons. Even though the Pentagon pledged to never use this technology again, military command went ahead anyway in the 2003 Iraq conflict, deploying missiles loaded with depleted uranium (DU). More than 2,000 tons of this toxic radioactive waste rained down on the Iraqi people. The radioactive repercussions of DU will continue to plague the Iraqi people for many years to come. The lingering health effects have already begun to take a toll on the health of U.S. soldiers. Cancer-causing DU has been measured in soldiers urine, but the Department of Defense asserts that its safe.
CENTCOM unveils DU also used deceptively in Syria
According to a new disclosure from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the same horrifying DU-laced weapons were used in the November 2015 air raids in the Deir ez-Zor and Hasakah provinces in eastern Syria. This disclosure contradicts a March 2015 statement issued from U.S. Central Command, which stated, U.S. and coalition aircraft have not been and will not be using depleted uranium munitions in Iraq or Syria during Operation Inherent Resolve.
Apparently the military lied. According to CENTCOM spokesman Major Josh Jacques, in November 2015, 5,265 armor-piercing DU rounds were shot out of an A-10 ground attack aircraft to take out 350 oil tanker convoys owned by the Islamic State. The damages of this radioactive material do not stop when an enemy combatant is killed. The repercussions are experienced for many years to come and even return to U.S. soil.
DU plagues innocent people, including thousands in the U.S. military
DU is a nefarious weapon, a byproduct of enriched uranium that has a half-life in the millions of years. Its used in the manufacture of nuclear weapons and as fuel for nuclear reactors. This material, exclusive to the U.S. and U.K., is used in missiles to effectively pierce a targets armor plating. Smaller shells contain about 300 grams of DU and bunker-busting missiles can contain up to 7 tons. Over the course of the two Iraq conflicts, the U.S. indiscriminately unleashed tens of thousands of tons of DU hell onto the Iraqi people. This will significantly pollute the ground and water of these lands for many years to come. Enriched uranium is a highly toxic substance, whether inhaled or ingested. It is directly linked to birth defects, infertility, and all sorts of cancer.
The repercussions of DU not only plague innocent Iraqis, but they come home to the U.S. as well. A large percentage of soldiers who returned from the Gulf War were exposed to DU aerosols that blasted into the air after hitting high impact targets. A new DU detection method pioneered by Professor Randall R. Parrish found DU still in the bodies of Gulf War veterans 20 years after exposure. Tens of thousands of potential cancer cases of American troops are linked to DU exposure in Iraq. This fact has been stealthily covered up by the Veterans Administration, which has barred medical journals from retrieving cancer statistics within the VA registry. This is not how the U.S. shines as an example for the rest of the world. This is not true National Defense. This is not how the U.S. should treat its veterans.
Sources include:
TheFreeThoughtProject.com
HuffingtonPost.com
NBCNews.com
Experts were left completely shocked and baffled after a crocodile shark (Pseudocarcharias kamoharai), usually found in deep tropical waters, was discovered in the U.K. coast for the first time.
The shark was already dead when it was found by a family on a beach at Hope Cove near Plymouth.
Realizing that it is not something that they regularly see on the beach of U.K., the family immediately contacted the local aquarium and sent photos of the carcass.
James Wright, curator at the National Marine Aquarium, said as quoted by The Guardian, "On first inspection of the photos we thought the animal could be a juvenile porbeagle shark, which is found in UK waters. However, we identified numerous traits that suggested it was not any shark usually recorded in UK waters."
Read Also: Rescue Dog Gets Eaten by Shark While Playing on Australian Beach
The curator added that there are several theories surrounding the unusual sighting. But the most possible one is that the shark might have reached the U.K. coast after following a warm, deep water current.
He explained that the crocodile shark species is normally found in tropical climates such as Brazil and Australia but not in the U.K. They are prevalent in deep waters during the day, then comes shallower at night to find food. Wright said that the crocodile shark could have died from traveling and shock to cold waters, which is different from what it's used to.
Paul Cox, Managing Director of The Shark Trust told The Independent that the crocodile shark which is known for its spiky teeth is near-threatened in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Although they are not really hunted, they are often caught in fish nets. Because they are small and are of no value to fishermen, they are often discarded on shores if they are accidentally caught.
Meanwhile, the experts are urging the public to report similar cases so they can identify whether the case of the crocodile shark is just an isolated case or is a trend to be worried about.
Read Also: Coastal Shark Population in Southeast US on the Rise
A London to San Francisco flight was delayed for four hours after a mouse was spotted in the plane.
The passengers on British Airways Flight BA285 were ordered off the plane Wednesday when the mouse was seen running inside the aircraft.
They were later transferred to a new plane and had to wait for hours to finally get on the new flight. Some passengers tweeted about the ruckus.
Just had my flight to SFO cancelled because of a mouse on board the plane. Could it not get a visa?? #britishairways Mark Watt (@markwatt) March 1, 2017
Another user shared, "I'm going to sell this to the movies. It can be the slightly more pedestrian prequel to snakes on a plane."
Following the commotion, British Airways apologized and found a way to do it with humor. Quoting the airline, BBC wrote:
"We know almost everyone wants to fly with us to San Francisco, but on this occasion there was one very small customer who we had to send back to the gate. Everyone with two legs is now on their way to California, and we are sorry for the delay."
As a rule, planes are not allowed to take off when there is a mouse. They are considered a major hazard because they can chew through wires, which may lead to further inconvenience, and worse, accident.
"Two ounces of mouse will cancel a 6,000-mile flight, there's no question. They eat anything and chew anything and can slide through anything," Michael Boyd, an aviation expert with Boyd Group International, told The New York News.
Boyd addded that the presence of a mouse is alarming because this animal breeds fast. When you see one running around, that would mean that there's a bunch of them -- a family, even -- hiding in plain sight.
Meanwhile, Fox News reported that while the incident is already over and done, the airline might have to pay the passengers for the inconvenience saying that under EU compensation rules, furloughed passengers could receive around 600 pounds of $735 as reimbursement for their delayed flight.
The report added that those passengers who were supposed to take a connecting flight in San Francisco but was not able to do so due to the delay could also ask for compensation, excluding overnight expenses they may incur.
Tom Williams | CQ Roll Call | Getty Images. Trump said "we should start an immediate investigation" into Schumer's ties with Russia.
President Donald Trump lashed out at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on Friday, who has called for Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign over the uproar about his contacts with Russians.
Trump tweeted a photo of the Democratic senator from New York and Russian President Vladimir Putin laughing and holding Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Trump said "we should start an immediate investigation" into Schumer's ties with Russia, calling him a "total hypocrite." He did not accuse Schumer of any specific wrongdoing.
Schumer responded that he would "happily" talk about his contact with Putin. He said it took place in 2003 "in full view" of the press and the public. Schumer then asked if Trump and his team would talk openly about any contact with Russia.
The tweets come a day after Sessions said he would recuse himself from any investigations related to the Trump campaign. Lawmakers raised concerns that he misled senators in his January confirmation hearing about his contacts with the Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergey Kislyak, while he was a U.S. senator and advisor to the Trump campaign.
On Thursday, Schumer called for Sessions to resign, saying he had "weeks" to "correct the record" about his testimony and did not.
Later Friday, Trump slammed House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi , who also called for Sessions to resign and accused him of perjury. The president said he demands a second investigation into the representative from California, linking to a Politico story that shows a photo appearing to contradict her Friday statement that she never met Kislyak.
Trump has called any developments about links between Russia and his campaign officials a "total witch hunt." He previously asked his first national security advisor, Michael Flynn, to resign after the former general misled top White House officials about his conversations with Kislyak.
Story continues
Sessions oversees the Justice Department and FBI, which have led investigations into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election and any links between Russia and Trump associates. Sessions' recusal will put a deputy in charge of the investigations that relate to the Trump campaign, but it is not entirely clear how broad that recusal will be.
Asked about possible Trump campaign contacts with Russia during his January confirmation hearing, Sessions said he had "been called a surrogate a time or two in that campaign." He said he "did not have communications with the Russians" and was unable to comment on alleged contacts between Trump campaign officials and Russian officials.
On Thursday, Sessions defended his testimony in which he appeared to mislead senators about his contact with Kislyak. He said that, due to the framing of Democratic Sen. Al Franken's question to him, he "focused (his) answer on" whether he met the official in his role as a campaign surrogate, not his position as a then-senator.
"In retrospect, I should have slowed down and said I did meet with one official a couple of times and that was the Russian ambassador," Sessions said Thursday. Sessions said he will send a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee clarifying his testimony.
More From CNBC
The type of documentation San Francisco officials lost in the Millennium Tower project will now have to be retained under reforms passed by a Board of Supervisors committee on Thursday.
Last year, NBC Bay Area first reported that Department of Building Inspection officials failed to keep some of the key documents in the history of the troubled tower, which is now sinking and tilting.
Among them was the developers letter admitting in January 2009 that the tower had sunk more than eight inches, far more than the five inches originally expected over the Millennium Tower's lifetime.
On Thursday, the government oversight panel approved a change in city code that will ensure that the city retains any documents stemming from a discovery made after building permits have been issued.
That was not done in the case of the Millennium Tower, and Supervisor Aaron Peskin believes it should have been standard procedure all along.
I was rather shocked find out that actually the records retention policy at the department had not been brought into the dawn of the 21st century, relative to retaining those kinds of records, Peskin told his colleagues, It is one of the lessons learned in the Millennium conversation that is ongoing.
Ron Tom, assistant director of the Department of Building Inspection, said the change will assure no repeat of the records gap exposed by the Millennium project.
Just in the course of business, he said, when somethings out of the ordinary, we would normally expect some records to be retained so we could trace it later on. That didnt occur (here) so were going to correct that.
The changes approved by the government oversight committee Thursday must now go before the full board for approval.
Roughly one month after crashing into the swollen Alameda Creek, 18-year-old Jayda Jenkins has been found and positively identified, police said.
Jenkins, who was traveling from Tracy to Menlo Park on Jan. 21 when her car plunged into the raging torrent of water along Niles Canyon Road, was located late Thursday by a man walking his dogs along the Alameda Creek near Coyote Hills Region Park, police said. The Alameda County Sheriff's Department on Friday confirmed that the body pulled from the water was Jenkins, marking a moment of closure for the Jenkins family.
"They were relieved to know that we found Jayda," Alameda County Sheriff's spokesman Sgt. Ray Kelly said. "They now can begin their closure to begin to start healing and begin to try to make sense of this tragedy."
Jenkins' body was found roughly 11 miles from the original crash scene, Kelly said. The location of the discovery was just two miles away from the San Francisco Bay.
Police said the original crash occurred when Jenkins' 2000 silver Honda Accord crossed the center divider on Niles Canyon Road, collided with a white Honda Accord and crashed into the creek, which was saturated and moving swiftly as a result of recent rainfall and runoff spilling from nearby reservoirs.
One of Jenkins' family members managed to spot the vehicle two days later during a search attempt. The following day, recovery crews removed the car from the water, but Jenkins was not inside.
The teenager's seat belt was found to be unfastened, and the car's windows were broken, police said.
Members of the Jenkins family and other community members at times numbering more than 100 people commenced numerous searches over the next several days, but their efforts yielded no results. Official law enforcement-piloted searches were limited after the crash because of dangerous water conditions.
Kelly added that search teams canvassed the lengthy stretch along the creek between the crash scene and the San Francisco Bay on multiple occasions, but they did not spot anything.
Jenkins just graduated from high school and was studying psychology at William Jessup University, hoping to become a social worker.
A march for Donald Trump is planned in Berkeley this Saturday, one of dozens planned nationwide to show support for the new president.
The March 4 Trump in Berkeley is the only event planned in the Bay Area and one of three planned in California. Marches were previously planned in Los Angeles and Sacramento, but organizers decided to cancel those to attempt to bolster attendance at the other events.
As of Thursday, 133 people had said they were attending the Berkeley march on the event's Facebook page. Several commenters were trying to arrange rides, some coming from elsewhere in the Bay Area or the Central Valley.
Berkeley police Sgt. Andrew Frankel said Thursday that the Police Department has been in touch with organizers and while they have not obtained a permit, they are coordinating with police.
The rally is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park and then will march to the UC Berkeley campus at about 3 p.m., Frankel said. He said he did not know how many people would attend.
There has been some indication that there may be counter protests at the event, including from anti-fascist groups who helped organize the violent protest against far-right writer and speaker Milo Yiannopoulos last month.
Asked if police had any plans to prevent violence between different factions of demonstrators on Saturday, Frankel said, "The department is prepared for a number of different contingencies."
Counter-protesters have said that there is the potential for white nationalists to attend the march, but organizer Rich Black has pushed back against that suggestion in online postings, saying that no organizers have any association with white nationalist groups.
"If any one person that shares the beliefs associated with white nationalism or belongs to any Neo-Nazi faction or Nazi Workers Party attempts to attend this event, they will be ejected immediately," Black wrote.
Asked how they plan to eject Nazis from the rally, Black said Thursday, "We have security detail as well and police will be present. We will remove agitators and nazis flying any nazi banners are agitators."
Contra Costa County officials will host a public meeting on Thursday night to update residents about the state of assessments and repairs to a massive mudslide that closed Morgan Territory Road in both directions last week.
Members of the community will get a briefing from officials and can ask questions of staffers from the Public Works Department, the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, the sheriff's office, Cal Fire, the Contra Costa Water District, PG&E, the Mount Diablo Unified School District and the office of county Supervisor Diane Burgis.
The mudslide was first thought to have engulfed about 120 feet of roadway but the most current estimates put it at closer to 300 to 400 feet, said Public Works' Chief Deputy Director Brian Balbas.
"The soils out there are very, very saturated from all the rain we've been getting," Balbas said.
Since Friday, Morgan Territory Road has been closed in both directions between Oak Hill Lane and Williams Road and people who need to drive north into Clayton or east to Brentwood via Marsh Creek Road have had to detour south all the way to Livermore in order to find alternative routes.
People living in the rural area have also had to deal with intermittent power outages, lack of water service and disruptions to police and fire service. As of Thursday, PG&E had restored power to the area but about 80 people were still without water, Balbas said.
Water district crews had to repair the main water pipe that runs underground in the slide area three different times because the slide is still moving slowly downhill, making any permanent fix to either the pipe or the roadway untenable, Balbas said.
Right now, the crews are trying to secure a pipe made of flexible material to the water main on the north side of the slide. They then plan to run the flexible pipe above ground, over the slide, and affix it to the main on the south side.
Water district officials still don't know how long it will take to make those repairs and fully restore water service to the area, Balbas said.
The county's engineers are working to gauge the exact size, depth and movement of the slide in order to make an assessment about how to repair the road. The time it will take to complete the roadway repairs has not yet to be determined, Balbas said.
Emergency services to the area are also being modified to work around the slide area.
Fire and police vehicles have been parked on the south side of the slide and if there is a call, crews can drive to the north side and walk over the slide to where the vehicles are waiting.
Also, several helicopter landing zones have been identified in case emergency medical evacuations are necessary.
The public meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. at 4255 Morgan Territory Road, roughly two miles south of the road closure.
The meeting will be outdoors and attendees who need seats are asked to bring their own. Also, parking is limited so people are also encouraged to walk or carpool.
San Francisco public safety officials struggled at a hearing Thursday to explain what led to a Jan. 13 ambulance meltdown that left an apparent stroke victim waiting 21 minutes to be taken to the hospital.
NBC Bay Area first reported that no ambulances were available to respond to a total of five calls on a typical Friday night in the city.
In the first of those calls, a firefighter asked a dispatcher if there was an ambulance for a call of "chest pain and shortness of breath."
"Were trying to get a medic right now," came the reply.
Later that night in Chinatown, a fire crew asked for a Code 3 emergency response to assist an elderly stroke victim. No medics were available and the victim ended up waiting 21 minutes.
Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White testified that the delay was partly due to the fact that the original call was not considered a Code 3 emergency.
But that didnt satisfy Superivsor Aaron Peskin.
"I think there were actually five other incidents that evening or so it was reported," he said.
Hayes-White promised Peskin that she is looking for ways to modify the departments staffing model to reflect the growing burden. "Weve seen our call volume continually increase," she said.
But even with a bolstered staff of 200 medics and upgraded ambulances, some obstacles are beyond the citys control, she told Peskin. Crews face jammed streets in the worlds fourth most congested city and medics are stuck with long wait times in getting people admitted to hospitals already filled with patients, she told Peskin.
The crisis is real, one fire union leader told the supervisors government oversight committee.
"Right now, we are pushing our employees to the brink," union president Tom OConnor warned. He said the answer is simple: Hire more medics and keep up with the average 4 percent yearly increase in ambulance calls.
Otherwise, he said, the city will inevitably be unable to find all the ambulances it needs.
"All too often in public safety, you talk about the big one the next disaster," OConnor said. "But in the course of all our lifetimes, the big one is when your mom falls and breaks her hip, or when your kid gets hit by a car that is the disaster in your lifetime, and you shouldnt be left waiting."
Peskin said he will call for another hearing within 60 days to get an update on what is being done to make sure that no one else has had to wait too long for an ambulance.
A Silicon Valley tech worker recently was placed on a deportation list due to a more than two-decade conviction on a felony drug charge.
The incident occurred when John, who wants his identity hidden, flew into San Francisco International Airport from Europe with his family. His green card was not good enough for the customs agent.
"They detained me for six hours," John said. "I was frightened."
John previously served six months for his conviction and had his record expunged. But that did not matter to the feds.
"An expungement or a record clearance would be good in state court," legal analyst Steven Clark said. "But its of very little value in the federal system."
Clark also is an attorney who has represented several clients with similar dilemmas: legal residents who broke the law years ago, paid their debt to society and now face having their green cards revoked.
"They are caught up in the labyrinth of these new ICE procedures," Clark said.
Immigrants are now asking district attorneys and judges to modify their sentences. That is possible if their lawyer did not properly advise them of the immigration consequences of pleading guilty to a crime.
John said for now he is throwing himself on the mercy of the court.
"It still is a fearful thing for me," he said. "My kids are in college. We just had our 21-year anniversary."
Santa Clara County Assistant District Attorney David Angel provided the following statement Thursday:
"Record clearances and other statutory remedies can play a vital role in rehabilitation and public safety, and as such we are always interested in community efforts to ensure that everyone who is entitled to such relief can get it. We remain concerned that, like many areas of our criminal justice system, too often we find that while the middle class avails themselves of these benefits others are not empowered to do so. As such, we are working with community groups to ensure sufficient outreach and assistance so that all members of our community, including immigrants, have equal access to justice."
The effort to find gender-neutral bathrooms around town just became a little bit easier thanks to Yelp.
The San Francisco-based company on Friday announced its new service that allows users to pinpoint whether or not a business houses gender-neutral facilities.
Yelp classifies gender-neutral bathrooms as being "accessible to persons of any gender and are a locking, single-stall bathroom."
The latest addition to Yelp's platform will be put together via public and business input. Yelp plans to ask users to identify locations that have gender-neutral bathrooms, and businesses will be allowed to specify whether or not they offer gender-neutral facilities.
Prior to Friday's announcement, Yelp joined an amicus brief in support of Gavin Grimm, a transgender student in Virginia who was barred from using the boy's restroom as his school.
"We believe it's important for the business community to speak up in support of equality for all," Yelp wrote in a statement.
A judge has granted prosecutors' request to keep the wife of the Orlando, Florida, nightclub shooter in jail, at least for now.
U.S. District Judge Paul Byron in Orlando issued the order late Thursday.
The order states Noor Salman should stay in jail while the judge decides if she should remain in custody until her trial. She is charged with helping her husband scout out potential targets.
A day earlier, a federal magistrate judge in Oakland, California, ordered Salman's release, saying it's "debatable'' whether the government has enough evidence to convict her. That judge ordered the release for as early as Friday.
Salman has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The criminal charges were filed in Orlando but the detention hearing was held in Oakland, California, because Salman was living in the Bay Area at the time she was taken into custody.
"In terms of Noor being released ... we don't know," said Linda Moreno, one of her attorneys, prior to the judge's decision.
Salman has pleaded not guilty to charges of aiding and abetting, and obstruction of justice. She faces life in prison if she is convicted.
Salman's husband, Omar Mateen, pledged allegiance to the Islamic State during the attack at the Pulse gay nightclub on June 12. The deadliest mass shooting in recent U.S. history left 49 people dead and dozens more injured. Mateen was eventually killed by police.
Federal prosecutors on Thursday moved to keep Salman in jail.
In their motion, prosecutors said there is a presumption in the law for Salman to be held in jail since the crime involves terrorism, and that prosecutors need not show anything more than an indictment to back up their request.
"Here, the defendant proffered evidence of her husband's alleged abuse, the affidavits of friends and family, and her lack of overall danger in support of an argument that she does not constitute a flight risk or danger to the community," the prosecutors said. "Such proffered evidence falls far short of justifying a finding in favor of release, particularly in light of the nature of the charged offense."
Moreno said the motion seemed a rehash of what was argued in the California courtroom.
"The court found that the evidence they claim supports these allegations was debatable," Moreno said. "It's far more than debatable. It's groundless."
The outgoing top U.S. diplomat for East Asia said Thursday that China should take more actions to send an unambiguous signal to North Korea to stop its nuclear and missile programs.
China recently said it is suspending coal imports from North Korea, an important source of its foreign revenue.
Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel said that was in line with U.N. sanctions, but he hoped Beijing was also swayed by a recent North Korean missile test and the assassination of the North Korean leader's exiled half brother, who was under Chinese protection during the years he lived in Macau.
"The world should expect a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council to adhere to the letter and the spirit of a resolution as important as this," Russel told The Associated Press.
"I hope we see a lot more Chinese actions, whether they are tied to the Security Council resolution or whether they are unilateral that send an unambiguous stop sign to the North Korean leaders," he said, noting that China accounts for up to 90 percent of North Korea's external economic activity.
Russel said that he was stepping down as assistant secretary March 8 to spend one year as diplomat-in-residence at the Asia Society Policy Institute, a think tank led by former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
He said he wasn't pushed out by the Trump administration and will remain a State Department employee. Russel has held the position for 3 years. Prior to that he was President Barack Obama's top Asia adviser at the White House. His successor has not been named.
Also Thursday, the State Department said that Assistant Secretary Linda Thomas-Greenfield will leave her position as top diplomat for Africa on March 10. She has accepted a State Department detail as a senior fellow at Georgetown University's Institute for the Study of Diplomacy.
She and Russel are final holdovers as assistant secretaries running the department's regional bureaus after President Donald Trump took office nearly six weeks ago. All those positions will be run by acting assistant secretaries until their replacements are nominated and confirmed by the Senate.
No nominations have been made yet.
An Illinois congressman has compared town hall meetings with constituents to what he described as the practice of "cleansing" by "Orientals."
Republican Rep. Mike Bost made the assertion during a meeting with the editorial board of the Southern Illinoisan in Carbondale.
Bost visited his 12th District last week during a congressional recess. But he hosted a tele-town hall instead of an in-person one.
Some Republicans in Congress have participated in raucous town halls in which crowds have expressed concerns about President Donald Trump's policies.
Bost described the town halls as "out of control." He added that they were like "the cleansing that the Orientals used to do where you'd put one person out in front and 900 people yell at them."
Telephone calls to Bost's offices weren't immediately returned.
The sight of a vehicle speeding directly toward you on the highway can lead to a split-second decision that may result in life or death. In fact, an NBC 5 Investigates analysis of state records in 2015 revealed more than 50 people have been killed and nearly 300 have been injured by wrong-way drivers in Illinois since 2005.
Now lawmakers in Illinois are pushing for tougher penalties for impaired wrong-way drivers; a move they say will save lives.
It would effectively make driving the wrong way down a one way street an aggravating factor in a DUI case, said State Rep. Mke Zalewski of Riverside.
Zalewski is sponsoring House Bill 303, which has been approved by the state house. Currently, a judge cannot take wrong-way driving into consideration during sentencing. However, the proposed law would allow judges to add additional prison time for individuals convicted of aggravated DUI, where wrong-way driving was involved.
Riverside police chief Tom Weitzel was recently named chair of a new statewide committee seeking to make Illinois roadways safer. He said he approached Zalewski for assistance in drafting new legislation after researching wrong-way crashes in Illinois. Weitzel also referenced NBC 5 Investigates in his research.
I repeatedly saw wrong-way driving crashes in Illinois where victims were either killed or severely maimed, Weitzel said. The impetus for this legislation came to me from MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving).
Weitzel referred to the death of Steven Smith, an off-duty Chicago Ridge police officer killed by an impaired wrong-way driver in September, 2015, near Oak Brook.
Investigators said Sara Lopez drove south for eight miles in the northbound lane of the Tri-State Tollway before crashing into a car in which Smith was a passenger. Lopez is currently serving a five year prison sentence for aggravated DUI.
Lisa Smith said her son, a US Marine reservist, had only been a full time police officer for seven months when he was killed in the crash. According to Smith, Lopezs punishment did not fit the crime.
People are getting a slap on the wrist for something thats a serious crime, Smith said.
However, Smith said she is excited to hear about the proposed law that would create more severe consequences for impaired wrong-way drivers.
It will make them twice before they get behind the wheel of a vehicle and decide to drink and drive, Smith said.
HB 303 still needs to be approved by the state senate and Governor Bruce Rauner before it becomes a law.
New information released by the Illinois Department of Transportation shows an additional four people were killed and nine were injured by wrong-way drivers state-wide in 2016. A spokesperson for IDOT told NBC 5 Investigates the department is aware of newer technologies that could deter wrong-way driving and is continuing to evaluate the feasibility and applicability of such systems within the state of Illinois.
A spokesperson for the Illinois Tollway said the system is currently evaluating the best methods for detecting and deterring wrong-way drivers, including reviewing sensor technologies to determine if they may be effective in preventing wrong-way driving. A spokesperson also said signs have been installed at Illinois Tollway ramps to deter wrong-way drivers and more signs could be added as a result of the review.
Two men were charged with stealing iPhones from Apple stores across the country after being arrested during a traffic stop Wednesday in north suburban Deer Park.
Lake County sheriffs deputies stopped a vehicle near the Deer Park Town Center on Wednesday, according to a statement from the sheriffs office. The driver, 23-year-old Mohammed Hosein; and the passenger, 21-year-old Wen Jie Qin, had just left the Deer Park Apple store after exchanging broken iPhones.
After a series of recent fraudulent purchases at that store, the deputies decided to investigate further, the sheriffs office said. They found the two men to be in possession of more than 100 iPhones.
Investigators determined that Hosein, of Detroit; and Qin, who lives in San Francisco, traveled to Apple stores across the county and fraudulently obtained possession of numerous Apple iPhones, according to the sheriffs office. Qin and Hosein were charged with one count each of burglary and retail theft, both felonies, and were each ordered held on $50,000 bonds.
Ten people from New York and Michigan were arrested in 2016 and earlier this year in connection with fraudulent purchases at Apple stores, several at the Deer Park location, according to the sheriffs office. Deputies are providing increased patrols at the store as the investigation continues.
At least six tornadoes touched down in northern Illinois Tuesday night, five of which were in the Chicago area, according to the National Weather Service.
The tornadoes were reported in the towns of Naplate, Ottawa, Marseilles, Washburn, Rutland, Oregon and Cherry.
The strongest tornadoes were two rated EF-3, which hit the Naplate-Ottawa area and the Washburn-Rutland area, the weather service reported.
The Naplate -Ottawa tornado killed two people and left at least 14 others injured. Both EF-3 tornadoes caused serious damage to the Illinois communities.
Citing preliminary storm damage survey results, the NWS also reported tornadoes in Oregon, Cherry and Marseilles were each EF-1 tornadoes. One near Long Point, Illinois was rated an EF-2.
An EF-3 indicates estimated wind speeds between 136 and 165 mph and an EF-1 means wind speeds were believed to be between 86 and 110 mph.
According to the data, peak winds in the Naplate-Ottawa tornado reached 155 mph, with the system traveling 11.5 miles between 4:41 p.m. and 4:59 p.m.
"Naplate's been devastated," Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner said after touring the damage Wednesday morning. "As you can, I understand 64 homes are going to have to be demolished. And the blessing is that more people weren't hurt."
Two men were killed in Ottawa, about an hour and a half southwest of Chicago, when an uprooted tree came crashing down on workers on the south side of the city, police said.
Sky 5 aerial footage shows damage after strong storms and tornadoes struck the area amid severe weather on the last day of February.
Ottawa was one of the cities hit the hardest.
Another man was found dead in Crossville, Illinois, more than four and a half hours south of Ottawa.
A fourth person died in Perryville, Missouri, officials said.
Photos: Severe Storms Tear Through Illinois in February
A Chicago man lost his job after an "offensive and inappropriate tweet" was sent from his account Tuesday night berating the widow of a fallen Navy SEAL honored during a speech by President Donald Trump, the man's former employer says.
The tweet was aimed at Carryn Owens, whose husband, Chief Petty Officer William "Ryan" Owens, 36, of Peoria, was killed in a gun battle with al-Qaeda fighters during a raid in Yemen last January.
"Sorry Owens' wife, you're not helping yourself or your husband's memory by standing there and clapping like an idiot. Trump just used you," the tweet sent from Daniel Grilo's account read.
The account has since been deleted, but many users circulated screenshots of the comment, including Donald Trump Jr.
Hatred from the other side. I would think this is beyond what a human is capable of saying to someone, but it's not! pic.twitter.com/nNVfFWJmDh Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) March 1, 2017
The critical comment from Grilo's account was made during Trumps address to a joint session of Congress in which Carryn Owens was given a sustained ovation after the president thanked her and lauded her slain husband as a heroic warrior.
A visibly emotional Owens, seated next to Ivanka Trump during the speech, clapped, clasped her hands and looked upward with tears streaming down her face.
Grilo was a principal at Liberty Advisor Groupbut his profile page on his employers website has since been deleted, and the financial firm has issued a statement about the tweet.
Although the message and subsequent apologies were sent from an individuals personal account, and bore no connection to his work with Liberty, his comments were inconsistent with the Companys values and the unyielding respect it has for the members of our Nations Armed Forces, the firm said. Regardless of whether the comments in the tweet were intended to cause the hurt and anger that they ultimately generated, they were unacceptable to us, and the individual who issued the tweet is no longer affiliated with Liberty.
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Grilo received public backlash despite several apologies he made about his "poorly worded" tweet.
"I apologize, I believe parading Ryan's wife's pain like that was shameful after his morning comments," one of Grilo's tweets read, adding that he was happy to see his critics "inspired to protect Gold Star families."
Grilo's Twitter account reportedly said he volunteered for Hillary Clinton's campaign.
Efforts to reach Grilo by telephone were not successful.
We want to express our sincere condolences to Mrs. Owens, Liberty Advisor Group said. We also apologize to all those who have served this nation, including those Liberty employees who have themselves served, and anyone else who was offended by these comments.
The raid Ryan Owens was killed in has been surrounded by other controversies, such as civilian deaths and Owens' father refusing to meet with Trump, as well as conflicting reports on the planning and results of the raid itself.
Hong Kong action film star Jackie Chan said he feels shame for his son, who has been indicted by Beijing prosecutors on a drug charge and could be jailed for up to three years.
A home surveillance camera in northwest Indiana shows a man picking up a woman off the ground and putting her a car that drives awaybut police discovered Friday it was a family ensuring a teenage daughter got home safely.
The family came forward after news reports surfaced of the footage and police asked for help identifying the individuals in the video. The family said a teenage daughter was insisting she walk home from a friends house but the mother's boyfriend put her in the car instead.
Police say no crime was committed.
The images were captured in Hobart on Feb. 23 near 40th Avenue and Indiana Street about 5:50 p.m., the Times of Northwest Indiana reports. A resident gave the footage to police after seeing the concerning images, the paper reported.
In the video, a figure, apparently a woman, exits the vehicle and begins to run west on 40th Avenue before a male passenger also exits the vehicle, scoops her up and places her back in the cars back seat.
The car then goes south on Kelly Street beyond the view of the camera, the Times reports.
Police say getting an accurate description of the people in the video has proven difficult because of the distance but the car looks to be a smaller SUV or crossover, the Times reports, similar to a Nissan Rogue.
Police say they searched for similar-looking vehicles in the area but did not find anything. They have also put out a statewide notification about the incident but are unsure if anything criminal or nefarious has occurred.
If you have any information, Hobart police ask that you call Detective Robert Brazil at 219-942-4666 or email rbrazil@cityofhobart.org.
Lake County Health officials say they are concerned about the growing number of probable mumps cases in several Barrington schools, saying students who have not been vaccinated should either get the vaccine or stay home until the virus runs its course.
There were two confirmed cases and dozens more suspected as of Thursday at Barrington High School, according to principal Stephen McWilliams.
If you are not feeling well, stay home, he said to students and faculty.
There were more suspected cases at Prairie and Station middle schools.
Health officials say to look out for a low-grade fever, stiff neck and swollen salivary glands as symptoms of the virus. A person can be contagious for two days before experiencing any symptoms, they say.
The school notified parents of the confirmed cases and officials stressed this is a cluster of mumps and not an outbreak.
Im concernedits frustrating that some kids are vaccinated and some arent, said parent Diane Snyder.
In rare cases the mumps can cause sterility, meningitis or even inflammation of the brain. Health officials recommend that students and staff that are not vaccinated either get the vaccine or stay home to stop the virus from spreading.
Good hygiene is also key, health officials say, and maintenance staff at the school has been instructed to focus on high touch surfaces in the building.
Teachers have been told to look for symptoms among their students as well.
Toby Johnson lost his husband and father Tuesday night after an EF-3 tornado ripped through the LaSalle County city of Ottawa leaving destruction and grief in its path.
Toby and David Johnson were with their family in the backyard of a home on State Street when an uprooted tree came crashing down on them during the severe storms, officials said.
We were walking over to my moms house to go down into the basement and we were half way across the driveway when the tree came through, Johnson told NBC 5. "I ran out out to the street and I was asking for someone to call 911 and I went back and I threw myself over him so he wouldn't get wet. I was trying to get the branches off and i couldnt do it. I couldnt save him."
Tuntland, 76, was killed instantly, police said. Johnson was transported to OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa before being transferred by helicopter to OSF Saint Frances in Peoria, where he was pronounced dead at 4:54 p.m. Wednesday.
According to the Peoria County Coroner, Johnson suffered severe head trauma, resulting in his death.
For residents in the small tight-knit community, the pain is two-fold as they clean up the destruction left behind and mourn the sudden loss of their neighbors.
He was a good guy, Ottawa resident Cindy Ubanek said of 76-year-old Wayne Tuntland.
Another neighbor recalled seeing Tuntland walk his dog through the town every day.
People say, Why was he out here? neighbor Lisa Meyers said. But I say, 'Well, it came on quickly.' We went into the basement when it hit.
About a dozen other residents also suffered minor injuries.
Crews worked tirelessly overnight to fix and replace downed power lines and straighten snapped light poles. As of Thursday morning about 1,500 people in Ottawa were still without power.
Salvation Army volunteers spent the night walking the dark streets, handing out food and water.
See these people that lost everything, theres no reason to smile, David Ghantous of the Salvation Army said. [But] to see [others] helping out, handing them a sandwich or a bottle of water, really touches my heart.
A GoFundMe page for David Johnson's family has raised more than $2,000 so far.
Congressional Democrats from Illinois are calling for Attorney General Jeff Sessions resignation amid allegations that he lied to Congress about conversations he had with Russias ambassador to the United States during his confirmation hearing in January.
Top Democrats, including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, are demanding that Sessions resign after it was revealed that he spoke with Ambassador Sergey Kislyak twice during the presidential campaign last year.
Sessions recused himself from an investigation into possible connections between Russian ties to the Trump campaign on Thursday, while Reps. Jan Schakowsky and Cheri Bustos also urged him to resign immediately, continuing their push for an independent, bipartisan probe.
Sessions violated the law by denying his contacts with a foreign government that according to our intelligence agencies was actively working to subvert our election, Schakowsky said in a statement. The U.S. Attorney General serves as the top law enforcement official by his actions, Sessions has violated the confidence of the American public and shown that he is unfit for the job.
Bustos called revelations about the Trump administration's ties to Russia a clear and urgent national security concern.
We must go where the facts lead us, she said.
Last month, former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn stepped down amid allegations that he had improper communications with the same Russian ambassador about sanctions handed down for Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
The Presidents National Security Advisor resigned after making misleading statements about his contact with Russian officials the Attorney General will be held to the same standard, Sen. Dick Durbin said in a statement.
Durbin urged Sessions to recuse himself from the ongoing Justice Department investigations into the Trump campaigns potential dealings with the Russian government, echoing calls for an independent commission. Similarly, Sen. Tammy Duckworth called for an independent probe into the Russian ties, as well as Sessions recusal.
If he refuses to do so or if we learn he lied under oath, the America people deserve nothing less than his resignation, Duckworth said in a statement. [[415262643, C]]
Rep. Brad Schneider faulted Sessions for refusing to recuse himself earlier, claiming that his misleading statements to Congress erase what little credibility remained.
These allegations, if accurate, are disqualifying, and should compel Attorney General Sessions to resign his position, Schneider said in a statement, joining the group of congressmen calling for an independent commission.
Rep. Mike Quigley said it was unconscionable and unacceptable for Sessions to lie to Congress as he called on the attorney general to recuse himself from the ongoing DOJ investigations while pushing a congressional probe.
We will do our work in Congress, but it is also imperative that the Trump Administration immediately come clean with who else had contact, when, what was discussed, and what promises were made, if any, Quigley said in a statement. Anything less would not just be the Administration resisting an investigation, but thwarting it.
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi also called for Sessions recusal Thursday, as well as an investigation by the House Oversight Committee. In addition, Krishnamoorthi co-sponsored legislation to form a bipartisan commission to investigate the issue.
When two members of the Presidents Cabinet, key advisors during his campaign have both repeatedly conversed with Russian officials and then cannot speak the truth to American officials about it, we are forced to question who else in the White House, the Cabinet, and the administration has maintained and concealed relationships with representatives of the Kremlin, he said in a statement.
President Trump, asked if Sessions should recuse himself, said Thursday, "I don't think so." He was questioned in Newport News, Virginia, where he was speaking aboard a new aircraft carrier.
Part of a hospital roof collapsed in South Africa's largest city on Thursday, injuring five people and forcing some patients wrapped in gowns and blankets to temporarily leave the building.
As night fell, rescue workers were assessing whether anyone was trapped in the rubble at Charlotte Maxeke hospital in Johannesburg, where a section of roof fell near the main entrance, close to the maternity department.
BREAKING >> Entrance to Charlotte Maxeke Hospital has collapsed. More details to follow as we get further details. @mailandguardian pic.twitter.com/gqTGsNbb2b Bhekisisa (@Bhekisisa_MG) March 2, 2017
Construction workers were fixing part of the roof when it collapsed, according to Gwen Ramokgopa, the provincial health chief. She said the injured included two patients, two construction workers and one hospital staffer.
"The rest of the hospital is safe. The problem is contained to the entrance and the area is cordoned off," Ramokgopa said.
Stones had been moved onto the section of roof that later collapsed, said Jack Bloom, a member of the Democratic Alliance, an opposition party. He also cited hospital staff as saying in the past that there were leaking roofs and other structural problems in the building.
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Beauty Mashaba, a patient who left the building after the collapse, was relieved.
"Thank God, because I am out in safety and I am alive even though I am in shock right now," she said.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
John Stumpf, chairman and CEO of the Wells Fargo & Company, is sworn in prior to testifying before the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee September 20, 2016 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
By Patrick Rucker
WASHINGTON, March 3 (Reuters) - A U.S. Justice Department probe into a phony accounts scandal at Wells Fargo & Co is asking whether executives hid details from the company board and regulators as the problem grew over years, sources familiar with the review said.
The move carries into the Trump era an investigation started under the Obama administration, and could result in criminal charges against bank employees involved.
The Justice Department this week was due to interview federal bank examiners in Charlotte, North Carolina, and ask whether low-level employees broke the law by opening accounts without customer knowledge and if company executives took part in a conspiracy. A grand jury convened in the Northern District of California has also sent subpoenas to witnesses, including former Wells Fargo employees, the sources said.
The third-largest U.S. lender on Wednesday said even more customers may have been affected by the scandal than previously believed.
Wells Fargo disclosed in a $190 million settlement with regulators in September that staff opened as many as 2.1 million checking, savings and credit card accounts without customer consent over several years to satisfy managers' demands.
The sources declined to be identified because they were not authorized to speak about an open investigation. A bank spokesperson declined to comment on account-related probes but said Wells Fargo is trying to move past the scandal.
Officials are seeking to find out if executives shared everything they knew about the phony accounts to the Wells Fargo board of directors and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the lead regulator for national banks.
Even if executives are not charged with criminal misconduct, they could face civil penalties including fines or a ban from the banking industry. Wells has already fired some executives and clawed back portions of their pay.
Wells CEO John Stumpf resigned after the accounts scandal broke and former chief of retail banking Carrie Tolstedt retired. The bank has fired four mid-level executives and thousands of lower level employees.
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Officials will decide what charges to bring once the Justice Department finishes its investigation, work that is expected to wrap later this year, depending on how quickly Justice attorneys can proceed.
The assistant U.S. attorney leading the Wells Fargo case in San Francisco is busy preparing an unrelated criminal case tied to Hewlett Packard's $11 billion buyout of Autonomy Corp.
OPEN CASE
To be sure, Wells faces a slew of other investigations from individual states, agencies and U.S. Congress, though criminal charges are what could rock Wells Fargo.
Wells told investors in an annual securities filing on Wednesday that its legal costs could exceed what it has set aside by as much as $1.8 billion.
"We remain focused on providing the accountability and oversight that customers, team members, and investors expect and deserve," Wells Fargo spokeswoman Jennifer Dunn said.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's Philadelphia office, meanwhile, wants to know whether Wells Fargo misled investors by inflating the tally of customers who sought multiple accounts and whether the bank wrongfully went after whistleblowers, according to a person familiar with the matter.
U.S. Representative Jeb Hensarling, the Texas Republican at the head of the House Financial Services Committee, in September summoned four Wells Fargo executives for interviews and threatened to subpoena others, though that review is expected to conclude quietly in the face of the criminal investigations.
A separate review by the Wells Fargo board of directors is examining how the company handled the phony accounts spree that it first believed went on for four years from mid-2011 but may have gone on longer. A report on those findings is due by early April, Wells Fargo has said.
Several states, including Connecticut and Florida, have active investigations into the bank. California issued a search warrant for Wells Fargo's corporate offices in October, but declined to comment on the status of its review.
The Labor Department is separately examining whether the bank responded as it should have to whistleblowing bank tellers.
(Dan Levine contributed from San Francisco, Sarah N. Lynch contributed from Washington, Karen Freifeld and Dan Freed contributed from New York; Editing by Linda Stern and Meredith Mazzilli)
A White House official says President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and the man who would become national security adviser, Michael Flynn, met with Russia's ambassador to the U.S. in December.
The official calls the sit-down at New York's Trump Tower a "brief courtesy meeting."
Flynn was fired last month because he misled Vice President Mike Pence and other White House officials about his contacts with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
The Trump team's public accounting of Flynn's conversations with the ambassador have changed multiple times. The White House did not confirm the in-person meeting or Kushner's contact with the ambassador until Thursday.
The official isn't authorized to discuss the matter publicly and insists on anonymity.
State lawmakers are again considering a bill about when is it appropriate for school officials to seize and search your childs electronic devices.
Students at Hamden High School told NBC Connecticut they support this bill that defines the rules when school officials are allowed to confiscate personal belongings like phones, tablets and laptops.
Teachers and administrators, they have the right if they think something is going on to protect other students in school, they should be able to have the right to search devices, senior Mark Durwin said.
I think that students privacy is important as well, senior Dina Alissi said. There definitely has to be some reasonable suspicion.
According to ACLU of Connecticut Executive Director David McGuire, there have been questionable search and seizures in other school districts across the state.
Weve had students that have had their cell phones searched without any cause, McGuire said.
The ACLU of Connecticut is backing the bill before the state legislatures education committee that McGuire said strikes a balance between student privacy rights and school safety.
Students cannot just be searched at will, McGuire said. Students do have privacy expectations in their electronics and that has been recognize by the Supreme Court, so we do think this is a need law to get everyone on the same page.
According to the proposed bill, only school administrators can search for evidence on a digital device if there is reasonable suspicion the student had violated education policy or the student poses a risk of imminent personal injury to such student or others. The bill, called an Act Concerning Students Right to Privacy in Their Personal Mobile Electronic Devices, states the device has to be on school property.
There should be like a strict protocol, Hamden High School senior Briana Louis said, like a way its done with every single student.
The bill prohibits school employees from copying or sharing any information on the mobile device that is not related to the suspected violation or threat to other students.
It requires school administrators to stop searching once they find what theyre looking for or are unable to find it and also they have to memorialize their reason for searching it in writing and give it to the parents after the search, McGuire added.
The Connecticut Education Association joined the ACLU in testifying in favor of this bill at a public hearing on Wednesday.
Commissioner of the Department of Education Dianna Wentzell said in her testimony that existing federal constitutional law preempts this proposal.
There is already a well-developed body of constitutional law addressing student search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment, Wentzell said. These legal principles trump state law and school officials and state and local police are already familiar with them. This proposal is also very vague and overly limits the ability of school personnel to conduct a reasonable search, or to take custody of a mobile device without searching it for reasonable periods of time to deal with disruption or distraction in the classroom.
On a Saturday morning in Sepember, Julia Berv and Katie Winkle will proudly wear their Team Tommy Fund jerseys as they cycle to make the world closer to cancer free.
I was given a second chance and thats how I feel, Berv said.
It has been almost six months since doctors declared 23-year-old Berv cancer free.
I went into remission officially on September 20, 2016 and since then I have been spending my days recovering and building up strength to start back up school in May she said.
Throughout her battle with a type of bone cancer, Berv had her best friend Winkle by her side.
Being by Julias side and watching her fight, its just remarkable to see how well she is doing and shes a true definition of a warrior, Winkle said.
Winkle recently reached her own milestone.
On February 1, I celebrated ten years cancer free, she said.
At the 2016 Closer to Free Ride, a record number of riders raised more than $2.5 million for patient care and critical research at the Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven.
It was an adrenaline rush, said Berv, who was honored at the opening ceremony. I just felt on top of the world, here I am fighting back this horrible disease that can really ruin lives for people.
On their wrists, these best friends wear bands that say Survivor, Joy for Julia and Courage for Chloe in honor of Winkles baby cousin.
Chloe is doing really well, Winkle said, this past December she got the news that shes cancer free, so her scans showed no evidence of disease.
Berv and Winkle attended the 2017 Closer to Free Kick-off Party at the Stony Creek Brewery in Branford Thursday night. Both have started training for this years ride.
You definitely will see me, said Berv, who was unable to ride last year. Im planning on riding and I plan on riding 25 miles this year.
There is still plenty of time to sign up for the 2017 Closer to Free Ride through New Haven and along the shoreline. It is scheduled for September 9.
Once again, NBC Connecticut is a proud media sponsor.
A Seymour man convicted the 1984 murder of a 19-year-old woman has been released from prison after filing a motion for sentence modification.
David Weinberg, 58, was supposed to serve 60 years in prison for the murder of Joyce Stochmal in 1984.
He walked out of Waterbury Superior Court a free man after serving 26 years in prison.
This comes after Weinberg went before a judge after filing a motion to have his sentence reduced.
Many of Stochmals family members spoke to the courtroom pleading the judge not to free Weinberg.
Stochmal of Seymour went missing Aug. 3, 1984 and was found dead in Lake Zoar four days later. Prosecutors said she was stabbed 17 times.
About a year later, Weinberg was arrested for her murder. He was convicted in 1989.
Prosecutor Maureen Platts said in the court that since 2010, numerous items of evidence have been re-tested. Several pieces of evidence are now coming into question due to new technology throughout the years. In one instance, three hairs in the Weinberg's trunk found in 1984 we're determined then to belong to the victim. A retest of that DNA in most recent years shows only two of the hairs belong to the victim.
In another instance, blood on the knife used in the murder was believed to be either human or animal blood in 1984. Recent testing showed the blood belonged to an animal.
The defense argued Weinberg has had good behavior while in prison, accumulating 12 years of good time credits.
Stochmal's family was upset after learning about Weinbergs release.
"David Weinberg walks. Everybody gets what they want except us. What we want is justice for Joyce. You have to ask the question how can this happen. Is this how the state of Connecticut protects and supports it's innocent residents?" said Maryanne Heffernan, sister of Joyce Stochmal, outside the courthouse Thursday.
Weinberg still claims his innocence in this case.
Now that he has been released, he will not be able to contest his murder conviction.
Coming up next week is National Consumer Protection Week, and the state Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) is joining the Connecticut Better Business Bureau to teach consumers different ways to protect themselves from growing marketplace threats and criminal activity.
The weeklong event runs March 5-11 and includes topics such as online safety, weight loss & health clubs, charities, consumer protection for military families, home improvement, common scams in the immigrant community, and retail warnings.
This week is a great opportunity for consumers to take a few minutes to protect themselves, learn more about the market, and start to create the habits that will allow them to be smart consumers all year round, said Consumer Protection Commissioner Jonathan A. Harris in a release.
DCP and the Connecticut Better Business Bureau suggest that consumers do three easy tasks that can prevent fraud and identity theft.
First, consumers should shred documents with private information that are no longer needed. Second, they should organize important paperwork regarding warranties, guarantees, or contracts and keep them in a safe place. Third, the DCP urges consumers to secure their online passwords, by having different passwords on every account and adding security questions.
"We have to be more vigilant than ever before, and National Consumer Protection Week is all about understanding these issues, protecting ourselves and our families, and knowing our rights when there is a problem, said Connecticut Better Business Bureau Executive Communications Director, Howard Schwartz.
Visit DCP on Facebook or Twitter.
Visit CT Better Business Bureau on Facebook or Twitter.
New Britain police said they caught two men running an extensive bogus credit card operation.
The pair are accused of pulling off the scheme using skimmers across the state and withdrawing tens of thousands of dollars from the accounts of unsuspecting victims.
Sergey Grigoryan and Sasun Yengibaryan were arrested in the parking lot of a Webster Bank on Tuesday after officers were tipped off something suspicious might be going down.
Detectives found the two men there, including one who apparently had fake cards falling from his pocket.
Officers said Grigoryan and Yengibaryan installed a so-called skimming device at gas stations across the state.
That allowed them to steal card numbers.
After the skimming devices were activated, police say the pair from New York City was able to produce phony cards.
They drove to Webster Banks, withdrawing $60,000 from ATMs.
Grigoryan and Yengibaryan face long lists of charges and are being held on $750,000 bonds.
They have pleaded not guilty.
Webster Bank had no comment, citing the ongoing investigation.
Its a growing and frustrating problem with more people dealing with their credit cards numbers being swiped by crooks who then rack up charges or drain accounts.
A common trap is at gas stations.
I realized there were all these charges to my card that I didnt charge and went to the bank and told them about it and they said it was probably when I paid at the pump, Carolyn Wells, of New Britain, said.
Many consumers say these days you can never let your guard down especially at the pump.
Its a common thing. You have to be careful with your money, Joe Reyes, of New Britain, said.
Wilton Police Department has an ongoing investigation for two bank robberies that may be linked to the same suspect.
On Feb. 22, a male described as 510 and in his 20s with a duffle bag approached the main door of Peoples United Bank in Southport, police said.
Wilton Police Department
Police said that the male, who was wearing a face mask with gloves, yelled to an employee who had just locked the door. After the employee told the male that the bank was closed, he fled the scene and headed southbound in a green 1997 Honda Accord with the license 477 ZVD.
Wilton Police Department
The vehicle was purchased in Stratford on Feb. 21 for $380, after it was listed on Letgo, police said. A Stamford address was written on the bill of sale.
Police interviewed the seller of the Honda, who described that the person who purchased the vehicle was a male with a thin build who in his 20s and has braids in his hair. The seller said that one of the men texted him stating that he was coming from Wilton and had a young son whose grandmother was supposedly asked to watch the son during that time, police stated. It is unclear if this person is connected to the robbery.
Wilton Police Department
On Feb. 24, the suspect who appeared in Southport also robbed Fairfield County Bank, operating the same green Honda with Connecticut license plates. The vehicle was recovered a short distance away through a rear access road.
Wilton Police Department asks that anyone with information please contact Det. Kip Tarrant at Kip.Tarrant@WILTONCT.org or (203) 834-6260 or Det. Bernie Kelley at the Fairfield Police Department bkelley@fairfieldct.org or (203) 254-4840.
Connecticut State police have arrested a suspect accused of leading troopers on a pursuit through several towns while driving a stolen vehicle.
According to police, Peter Smith, 45, was driving a vehicle that was reported stolen out of Norwich. When troopers tried to stop the vehicle, Smith took off, driving state roads for 26 miles through Colchester, Marlborough, Hebron then back into Colchester.
Troopers eventually surrounded the vehicle, at which point Smith rammed two cruisers, police said. He was eventually stopped on Route 354 south near the Salem town line.
No injuries were reported and the damage to the cruisers was minor, police said.
Smith faces multiple charges including first-degree larceny, interfering with an officer, assault on public safety personnel, drinking while operating vehicle, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief. He was held on a $100,000 bond.
Smith is also a suspect in a Norwich robbery and Norwich police have their own charges pending.
Audio from inside a twin-engine plane before it crash in East Hartford last October has been released for the first time.
The instructor survived with bad burns, but the student pilot was killed back in the fall.
The Federal Aviation Administration provided the NBC Connecticut Troubleshooters an audio clip of communication between the people inside the plane and air traffic control at Hartford-Brainard Airport.
An aviation expert helped explain what is going on, saying nothing was out of the ordinary at all on the tape until the final leg.
Its also important to note there are four planes in all, included on the 4:40 minute clip.
Seneca 15294 (student): Ah, Brainard Tower. Seneca 15294-ah-ten miles inbound from ah Southeast-ah with papa.
Brainard Tower: Seneca 15294, BrainardTower. Ident please.
The student called to tell the control he was about 10 miles away from the airport and he describes his position and the controller asked him to push a button on the airplane that makes him flash on the radar screen, Terry Keller, Jr., the chief instructor at Premier Flight Center told NBC Connecticut.
The first transmission from the deadly flight appears, experts said, to come from the student pilot, Feras Freitekh.
Freitekh did not survive the plane crash.
Over the next three minutes of the audio, the aircraft was radioing normally until final approach, with the instructor pilot communicating, they understood instructions for an amended landing.
All the other aircraft have essentially gotten out of the way," Keller, Jr. said.
Brainard Tower Controller: Seneca 15294, thank you. Report approaching the left downwind to land runway two-zero.
Seneca 15294 (instructor): And well report left downwind for two-zero, Seneca 15294.
Brainard Tower Controller: And Seneca 294, if youd like to amend that and bring it in on the base, thats approved.
Seneca 15294 (instructor): Thats fine, well take the left base for ah practice here, [unintelligible] ah Seneca 294.
On the final leg, Keller Jr. said it appears that is when the plane disappeared from radar.
Keller Jr. used to work for Arian Prevalla, until they went their separate ways about a decade earlier.
Seneca 15294 (instructor) And tower, Seneca 294 on final for ahum two-zero.
Brainard Tower Controller: Seneca 294, Roger. youre cleared to land runway two-zero.
Seneca 15294 (instructor): And cleared to land two-zero, seneca 294
Brainard Tower Controller: "Seneca 294, Brainard?"
Brainard Tower Controller to Bradley Approach/Radar Room by Intercom: "and Bradley, Brainard. The airports closed reference one Delta, Mike, we think we mightve lost one."
And tower controller then must realizes he couldn't find the Seneca visually and made a call on radio quarried him are you there and he didn't get a response," Keller Jr. said.
Instructor sounded completely calm, according to Keller Jr. about Prevella.
Keller Jr. said events like this in the flying world are rare, noting how many planes fly without incident.
He also said investigators will pare the audio recording from the radar system to help trace the path of the plane.
The National Transportation Safety Administration did not determine probably cause and doesnt plan to issue a report or open a public document.
Its unclear whether the FBI is still investigating.
Notre Dame senior Xitlaly Estrada got a call after the presidential election from her mother, who immigrated to the United States from Mexico in the early 90s.
Crying, Irma Estrada told her daughter she couldnt believe Donald Trump, a man who had used so much anti-Mexico rhetoric on the campaign trail, would soon be the leader of the free world.
Following the announcement that Trump's Vice President Mike Pence will deliver this year's commencement address at Notre Dame, Estrada and her friends believe their big day will be compromised by values that contradict their own.
A lot of us are concerned for our families comfort, said Estrada, the president of the Latino Student Alliance.
She and other LSA members, many of them first-generation Americans, worry that their guests will feel unwelcome at a ceremony honoring an administration that has degraded their Hispanic identities.
Regardless of who is speaking, this is mine, Estrada said of her graduation. But I think its a particularly hard moment for my parents.
In the past, the newly elected commander in chief has often delivered the keynote speech at Notre Dames May graduation and received an honorary degree. Four of the last six presidents have made the trip to South Bend, Indiana, during their first year in office.
But after students circulated a petition signed by thousands from the Notre Dame community denouncing the possibility of Trump as speaker, and held several protests, the college sidestepped tradition and asked Indiana's former governor to take the podium.
Notre Dame spokesman Paul Browne declined to comment on whether Trump was invited to the May 21 ceremony or if he'll visit the campus in the future. Browne said he expects Pence will be "warmly welcomed," The Associated Press reported.
"But that doesn't mean we won't receive complaints from people who would have preferred someone else," Browne continued. "We typically do."
As for Pence, "It is fitting that in the 175th year of our founding on Indiana soil that Notre Dame recognize a native son who served our state and now the nation with quiet earnestness, moral conviction and a dedication to the common good characteristic of true statesmen, university President Rev. John Jenkins said in a statement.
In a groupchat with her peers, Natalie Thomas, president of the Black Student Association, has noticed people complaining that the administration circumvented calls from the student body to not extend an invitation to Trump by bringing Pence instead. For some, Trump and Pence are one and the same because of the views they collectively represent.
Pat Crane, president of Notre Dame College Republicans, said it's a shame that Trump wont be on the platform during commencement. But he added that he's honored to play host to the first-in-line, whom he called a wonderful man, a man of God.
Crane organized Pizza with Pence last year, a small gathering with the then-governor and his Republican base at the university.
It was a great experience for everyone involved, Crane said.
He expects the vice presidents address in May to unify the student body and give them hope.
"Were a Catholic institution speaking to Catholic values, he said, and he believes everyone at Notre Dame will stand in solidarity with Pence on issues like abortion rights and job security.
When asked if Estradas concern for her parents comfort wasn't valid, he said, Right. Neither Trump nor Pence has claimed the president will deport minority American citizens, Crane said, so as long as attendees are in the country legally, he didnt understand why theyd have a problem with Pences address.
Whatever they can take out of that speech to bring us together, thats going to be way more valuable than having some random other person speak at our graduation, he added.
But Jessica Pedroza, vice-president of the Student Coalition for Immigration Advocacy at Notre Dame, doesn't see the speech as a means to unify her peers.
I think its already dividing the class of 2017, she said.
I would have been disappointed if Trump had been invited, she added. Im equally disappointed that Pence is invited because he doesnt represent the values of Notre Dame.
She called the vice presidents upcoming appearance a slap in the face.
A lesbian herself, Thomas brought up Pence's anti-LGBTQ track record. She called his policies "offensive" and said they definitely dont advocate for equality."
Estrada believes the Trump administration is anti-Catholic in respect to human dignity, and specifically targeted Pence as anti-woman. She cited his alleged support of conversion therapy for members of the LGBTQ community and his attempt to reject Syrian refugees in Indiana as reasons for why she saw him as unfit to stand in front of the class of 2017. A Pence spokesman has said he does not support conversion therapy.
Over four years at Notre Dame, Ive been taught to value human dignity, to value the love of the other, the love of the stranger, Estrada said. Having a commencement speaker that is diametrically opposed to everything I am and everything I stand for is very heartbreaking.
Though Pence is the first vice president to give Notre Dames keynote speech, he is not a pioneer in stirring controversy on the campus.
President Barack Obama faced protests in 2009 when he received an honorary degree from the Catholic university despite his pro-choice stance. Joe Biden also faced some pushback when he was awarded the Laetare Medal in 2016, alongside former House Speaker John Boehner.
Crane, with the college Republicans, said that by presenting Biden with the Laetare Medal despite his support of LGBTQ and abortion rights, that hurts every single person who attends Mass every single week, including Biden, a practicing Catholic.
But Estrada said that when students protested Biden, policies were very much at the forefront, whereas undergraduate reactions to a Trump surrogate at commencement are driven more by personal fears.
I think that some students on campus feel unsafe because of the rhetoric of the Trump administration, and subsequently Mike Pence, she explained.
Pedroza agreed that comparing Pence to Democratic leaders like Obama was a false equivalency. Unlike past administrations, Trump and Pence have run a campaign based on hate and fear against certain communities, she said.
Giving Pence an honorary degree minimizes what it means, to a large body of students, to be a part of the Notre Dame community, Pedroza added.
Because of the keynote speaker, Thomas said that, among other forms of protest, some members of the graduating class are boycotting commencement. But she will still attend to celebrate her own achievements, if not those of the vice president.
"Weve earned it after working arduously at Notre Dame for four years, Thomas said.
A spokesperson for Pence did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Judging by their comments after the meeting between Chance the Rapper and Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, it's clear the two had far different sentiments.
"I'm here cause I just want people to do their jobs," Chance, whose real name is Chancellor Bennett, told reporters after leaving the meeting.
Gov. Rauner had agreed to meet with the Grammy-awards-winning rapper to discuss education funding in Chicago. Initially scheduled for Wednesday, the meeting was postponed to Friday after Illinois was hit by a number of tornadoes.
"I asked him about funding [Chicago Public Schools] with that $215 million that was discussed in May of last year and was vetoed in December over, you know, political arguments and s---," Chance said. "The kids are on the table right now and we spoke, for a second, it sounded like we were going somewhere."
Rauner vetoed a bill in December that would have injected the district with an additional $215 million in state funding to meet its June 30 teacher pension payment. Based on that veto, CPS announced the institution of a spending freeze on $46 million of non-salary funds on Feb. 6.
At the time of the cuts, a spokesperson for Rauner said financial assistance for CPS would be dependent on "comprehensive pension reform."
"He asked me where the $215 million is going to come from," Chance said.
"He gave me a lot of vague answers so well see what happens," he added. "Springfield is in session next week."
Soon after, Rauner told reporters he thinks the pair should work together.
"I said, 'Its an incredible opportunity to change our system and if we stood together Chance -- I have some power, I have power in some ways and you have great power in other ways -- if we stood together, work together to figure this out, I think we can get big things done,'" Rauner said.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BRL8CD2hNZI/
Chance later tweeted, "Chicago Public Schools and I did not lose today."
"Please don't let that become the narrative," he wrote. "Monday morning I'll have a plan."
Chicago Public Schools and I did not lose today. Please don't let that become the narrative. Monday morning I'll have a plan. Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) March 3, 2017
The meeting was first planned after Chance won three Grammy awards last month and Rauner took to Twitter to congratulate the rapper on his historic haul.
Congrats to @Chancetherapper for making history as an independent artist and taking home 3 grammys, Rauner tweeted at the time. IL is proud that youre one of our own.
Bennett responded, requesting a sit-down with the governor.
Thank you Governor, he tweeted. I would love to have meeting with you this week if possible.
Rauner quickly accepted Bennetts invitation, noting that he was looking forward to the conversation.
International trade concerns have hit a major industry here in North Texas.
Cattle ranchers in Texas may have a beef with Washington if international trade agreements are not secured in the near future.
The uncertainty surrounding the North American Free Trade Agreement and the severed ties with the Trans-Pacific Partnership is costing the industry thousands of dollars each day. The industry has its sights set on international trade, specifically Asia.
The future of this business, especially for my kids, in not here in the U.S. It's off shore, said Pete Bonds, who owns Bonds Ranch in Saginaw.
Bonds raises cattle on his land throughout Texas and eight other states. Texas ranks number one when it comes to cattle production and exports.
The economy of agriculture may be only two percent, but we buy a lot of pickups, a lot of cars, and a lot of machinery to run these ranches. We employ a lot of people to run these ranches, said Bonds.
According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, Texas leads the nation with a total number of 248,800 farms and ranches, covering 130.2 million acres.
Different beef products, that would not be popular here in the U.S., can be sold in other countries. In 2016, Japanese consumers purchased $1.4 billion of U.S. beef, but ranchers say that number could expand if a trade agreement was in place.
Right now, were selling a lot of meat into Japan with a 38.5 percent tariff," said Bonds. "We are competing against Australia, that only has a 25 percent tariff. The TPP would have lowered our tariff 9 percent and given us a level playing field with Australia, but Trump killed the deal."
Since the deal never went through, the industry did not technically lose any money, but ranchers lost out on anticipated gains and their competitive edge.
It's costing the industry $400,000 per day by not being able to be on a level playing field with the amount of extra beef we could ship into Japan on account of it, said Bonds.
Ranchers are waiting to see what President Donald Trump will do moving forward, and how other countries will react. There is also concern surrounding NAFTA and President Trumps threat placing tariffs on Mexico.
We would like for him to negotiate a bi-lateral trade agreement with Japan, open up the market in China, and leave Mexico alone," said Bonds. "Hes supposed to be this great negotiator, lets see what he can do."
After President Trump withdrew from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and vowed to renegotiate NAFTA (placing new tariffs on Mexico), cattle ranchers in Texas say the change in trade is costing them at the bank.
The Anderson County Sheriff's Office has discontinued an Amber Alert for 8-month-old Jax Dean Laymance.
Authorities say the boy was found late Thursday night in Arkansas.
A warrant was issued for Jeremy Dean Laymance, 27, and Morgan Lynn Mosley, 24, for interference with child custody, a state jail felony.
Laymance and Mosley were arrested Friday at about noon by the White County Arkansas Sheriff's Office. Bond was set for each at $50,000.
Laymance has two prior arrests in Anderson County for evading arrest. He is currently on parole in Arkansas for weapons charges and assault charges. He also has a warrant out of Walker County, Texas for theft by check.
Mosley has a prior arrest in Anderson County in January 2017 for abandon/endanger of child criminal neglect and injury to a child, both felony charges.
Two American bald eagles in Seagoville have welcomed the first of their two offspring.
The camera at the John Bunker Sands Wetland Center showed the first of two eggs hatched on Thursday. The eaglet, called JBC8 could be seen moving in the nest as the bald eagle repositioned itself.
You can watch the live stream of the eagles, CLICK HERE to visit the John Bunker Sands Wetland Center website.
The center said the first egg was laid on January 25, the second on January 28.
John DeFillipo says the eagles are quite draw for visitors to the 2,000 acre Kaufman County conservation center.
"I think it's a wonderful window into wildlife observation," DeFillipo said. "I call them arm chair conservationists."
You may remember when the eagles built their nest on a transmission tower that was dangerously close to high-voltage electricity. So crews built a replica tower and moved the nest 1,200 feet from the power lines.
Now people around the world can watch the eagles movements on a 24-hour webcam.
You can watch the live stream of the eagles, CLICK HERE to visit the John Bunker Sands Wetland Center website.
The cameras caught their return to North Texas in the fall.
Now anticipation is mounting for the second eaglet's arrival. It'll be called JBS9.
"Once they hatch, and they are nest-bound, we call them eaglets and once they fledge, once they take that first flight then they're juveniles," DeFillipo said. "I call them juvys for short, because it looks like they're in jail sometimes."
This is not their first egg since moving, NBC 5 reported when an eaglet was seen five months after the move.
The center believes this pair of bald eagles helps the population in North Texas increase.
Their offspring may very well be the eagles often spotted in the area along the Elm Fork of the Trinity River in Irving, or near the Lake Lewisville Dam or the pair who've made their home north of Lake Ray Roberts.
The hope of many watching is that the latest offspring also return to call North Texas home.
State Fair of Texas officials say the theme of this year's fair will be "Celebrating Texans".
"As the saying goes, 'everything is bigger in Texas'," officials said in a statement early Friday morning. "Our deep-rooted sense of Texan pride is no exception. Since it's establishment in 1886, the Fair has served as an advocate for this quintessential virtue throughout its 130-year history of celebrating all things Texan."
The State Fair of Texas is a nonprofit organization aiming to bring people from all over the country together through education, activity and Texas-sized fun. More than 100 attractions and exhibits happen at the fair every day.
"Honoring its past, present and future Texas neighbors, the 2017 event...will further support this initiative by highlighting the importance of community within every aspect of the fair," said the statement.
"The fair brings people from all walks of life together for the same purpose - to experience and celebrate our evolving Texan culture," says Mitchell Glieber, State Fair of Texas President. "There is a unique sense of community that fair goers develop during their visit...and we're extremely proud to be a vehicle for that unity."
Every year, the fair hosts 4H and FFA members from all across the state to share their agricultural expertise. Texas high school students can also receive scholarships through the fair's Youth Scholarship Program and anyone can showcase their artistic skills through the many community exhibits.
The fair is launching a community spotlight campaign this year to highlight Texan individuals and organizations who share in its goal to make a difference in the community.
This year's fair runs 24 days, from Sept. 29 through Oct. 29 in Fair Park in Dallas. A mural paying tribute to the "celebrated traditions that unite our Texas family" in honor of the fair this year can be found on the side of Baker's Ribs in Deep Ellum now through the end of the fair season.
Dozens of angry South Bay residents packed a International Boundaries Water Commission meeting Thursday evening, concerned about the massive sewage spill in Tijuana, Mexico, that contaminated water in the San Diego area.
When our kids cant go and swim at the beach thats right across form us, a state beach, its very upsetting, said meeting attendee Leslie Bell of Coronado Cays. We just want to make sure that somebody is held accountable for it.
The commission agreed to carry out a binational investigation into the more than 143 million gallons of raw sewage spilled in Tijuana. Additionally, officials explained the situation to residents and answered their questions.
Countless residents in the area have felt, and smelled, the aftermath of the spill. In addition to the health concerns and general inconveniences the incident has produced, people nearby are concerned that they're just now hearing about it.
A community meeting was planned Thursday night to discuss a sewage spill from the Tijuana River area that has contaminated the waters off the coast of Imperial Beach. Liberty Zabala reports.
"If it hadn't gotten worse and worse, they would have just gotten away with it if they could have," Bell said as her daughter stood nearby with a sign that read "Mexico must Pay!"
"So how often is this happening?" Bell added. "I feel like I have to go test the water every time my kids go swimming now."
The spill has been described as the worst sewage spill in more than a decade by Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina.
The leak began Feb. 6, according to a report by the commission. The sewage slowly seeped into the Tijuana River and made its way up the coast, causing an unusual odor for those people living in Imperial Beach.
The odor has lingered in the community for weeks.
Dedina says the city filed an official complaint on Feb. 15. He wants the U.S. government to investigate what caused the spill and why his city's residents weren't notified of the contamination.
"We expect to get results," Dedina said. "We're here to do that, but more importantly, to get the public to turn outrage into action so that our federal elected officials take action to invest in our border infrastructure."
The commission said the leak was likely caused by sewer construction gone wrong. The State Public Services Commission of Tijuana repaired a sewer line last month and, during the repairs, diverted sewage into the Tijuana River.
Millions of gallons of sewage spilled into the Tijuana River from Mexico. The mayor called it a tsunami of sewage, and the worst sewage spill in over a decade. NBC 7s Alex Presha reports.
Roberto Espinoza, an engineer and representative for Mexico's arm of the International Boundaries Water Commission, spoke at the meeting through an interpreter. He said a pipe in the main line near the Tijuana and Alamar Rivers' intersection failed under pressure from recent storms. He added that the leak was not intentional and happened during an emergency repair.
Espinoza went on to say that there was a breakdown in communication between the commission and operators in Mexico, and that while he can't explain how it happened, he does regret it.
"You should have received that information on time," Espinoza said.
Local leaders believe the spill was preventable.
Weeks later, signs remain on the beach warning people to stay out of the ocean from Imperial Beach to Coronado.
In addition to community leaders, many residents are also furious, saying the sewage should've been recaptured and put back into the treatment system instead of being allowed to travel all the way into the Pacific Ocean.
Plus, they say they were never warned of the activity.
A preliminary U.S. investigation determined the spill released upwards of 143 million gallons of raw sewage, but Mexico disputes that.
Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina leads a crowd chant at Thursday's IBWC meeting
Dave Gibson, Executive Officer San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board, said that given advances, this should not have happened.
Two-hundred years ago this might have been the state of the science but there's absolutely no question, whatsoever, that the state of the science is you capture the sewage and you keep it in the system," Gibson told NBC 7 on Thursday.
The spill prompted Gibson to write a letter to both U.S. and Mexican commissioners, requesting the need for improved sewer system reliability and interagency communication.
The letter included a list of measures that Gibson said the commission should consider including the detailed investigation into the breakdown in communications that led to the spill, without any apparent attempt at diversion or public notification.
Gibson also suggested developing a binational public notification protocol for all sewage releases into storm water systems, the Tijuana River, or its tributaries. This would include notifying public health agencies, landowners and the media in both countries, in the event that a spill like this happens again.
Gibson also wants the commission to consider utilizing a back-up pump station in San Ysidro that, in his words, would complement the existing station in Tijuana."
Gibson argued it could, under special circumstances, divert emergency flows to the City of San Diegos Point Loma or South Bay wastewater treatment plants, or the commission's wastewater treatment plant.
Other suggestions include:
Construction of a weir across the main channel of the Tijuana River to allow capture, retention, infiltration, or diversion of unexpected flows during the dry season to prevent or minimize impacts to the lower Tijuana River and Estuary and beaches in Tijuana, Imperial Beach, and Coronado.
An enhanced and binationally coordinated watershed and coastal waters monitoring program to develop information that would inform our efforts through Minute 320 to improve environmental quality in both countries.
To read the full letter, click here.
According to a document released by the commission Thursday, both U.S. and Mexican commissioners have agreed to investigate the transboundary sewage spill.
The investigation will determine when the spill occurred, quantify how much sewage spilled, specify the characteristics of the sewage, and identify problems in procedures to notify the Commission and the public, the document states.
The investigation on the spill and a report must be submitted within 30 days, per an agreement between U.S. Commissioner Edward Drusina and Mexican Commissioner Roberto Salmon. The commissions binational Water Quality Work Group will handle the investigation.
A Bay Area high school that counts itself among Snap Inc.'s first investors won big on Thursday after a booming initial public offering and first-day trading.
The company behind the popular messaging app Snapchat made its trading debut Thursday after a better-than-expected stock offering. Snap had priced its initial public offering of 200 million shares at $17 each on Wednesday.
Soon after Thursday's opening bell rang at the New York Stock Exchange, the stock began trading at more than $24 a share nearly 50 percent higher than its IPO price, CNBC reported. It closed at $24.48, valuing the Los Angeles company at $34 billion.
Saint Francis High School, a private Roman Catholic school in Mountain View, disclosed Thursday that it invested $15,000 of the institutions endowment fund in Snaps seed round of financing in 2012.
"We knew teenagers were using it and this would be something big for social media," said former principal Kevin Makley.
That money translated into more than two million shares for Saint Francis. Of that, the school has sold 1.4 million at $17 a piece, earning nearly $24 million, officials said.
Saint Francis is holding on to roughly 600,000 shares, knowing that they may end up being even more lucrative.
"I am absolutely celebrating. This is a tremendous day!" Makley said.
NBC Bay Area
Five years ago, Natalie Eggers, then a student at Saint Francis, alerted her father, a venture capitalist, about the burgeoning social messaging app. She said all her friends were obsessed with it.
Popular with the young people, Snapchat is best known for disappearing messages and quirky face-filters for jazzing up selfies.
Barry Eggers, a partner of Lightspeed Venture, listened to his daughter and his firm became one of Snaps first investors with $485,000 in early 2012, the New York Times reported. Lightspeed invested a total of $8.1 million in Snapchat over the years.
Eggers also persuaded SF Growth Fund, Saint Francis' student-run endowment fund that helps pay for scholarships and subsidized tuition, to get in on Snap, he wrote in a post published on the company's website.
Makley recalled Eggers' non-traditional investment idea.
"When we started this fund so many years ago, this is what we dreamed about. Now the dream is true!" Makley exclaimed.
Meanwhile, Saint Francis released a statement, part of which read: "Snaps IPO represents an incredible opportunity to help the school, its students and their greater community for years to come."
The school is still working out exactly how the money will be spent, but officials say the financial aid program is their top priority.
"Its good news for the school," said parent John Dugan, a "tremendous opportunity."
NBCUniversal, the parent company of this site, invested $500 million in Snap during its IPO as part of a strategic investment and partnership, CNBC reported.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
There are several road closures scheduled for this weekend.
Irving
Eastbound Texas 114 will close at Texas 161 10 p.m. Saturday until 10 a.m. Sunday. During this time, drivers will be detoured to the frontage road.
Arlington & Grand Prairie
Westbound Interstate 20 ramp to southbound Texas 360 will close for the Bardin Road bridge construction. The closure begins Friday at 9 p.m. Ramps will not open until 6 a.m. Monday.
The Bardin Road Bridge was severely damaged in a fire. Repairs this weekend will be to replace the beams and bridge deck.
Lewisville
There's a permanent closure coming at Wednesday. At 9 p.m., the northbound Interstate 35E entrance ramp from Sam Rayburn Tollway/Texas 121 will close.
Drivers will have to use the frontage road to the northbound I-35E entrance ramp from Farm-to-Market Road 3040/Round Grove Road.
This construction is part of the 35Express Project.
Dive teams will continue to scour an aqueduct in Hesperia for a possible fourth victim after a horrific car crash into the waterway left a mother dead and her two children hospitalized.
The car crashed into the water just before 7 p.m. into the aqueduct near Main Street. Details about what led up to the crash were not immediately available.
A 10-year-old child was ejected from the car and taken to the hospital. A 2-year-old was pulled from the water and also rushed to the hospital as first responders administered CPR, according to San Bernardino County Fire Department spokesman Jeremy Kern.
The mother was found dead in the submerged car, Kern said.
Authorities were still trying to confirm the exact number of people who were in the vehicles as of Thursday night and will continue to search the area in the morning.
They suspended the search late Thursday night after clearing the most probable areas of the aqueduct.
The identities of the woman and the children were not immediately released.
When you expect a certain number of otter stories to steadily flow your way over the course of a normal month, and you've enjoyed so many inspiring ones in recent weeks, you can find yourself demanding even more.
Because once you've read about that ancient giant otter fossil that was found in China, and the tender tale of Selka, the Monterey Bay Aquarium's super-smart rescue otter, your understandable demand for more whisker-wonderful items only increases.
We're just being honest here, right, otter people? Right.
So fear not, because something mighty sweet happened at the Aquarium of the Pacific on Thursday, March 2, and the star at its center is a handsome marine mammal of great note.
We speak of Charlie here, a southern sea otter, who has the lofty designation of being "...the oldest known southern sea otter in a zoo or aquarium." So when a milestone birthday rolls around for Charlie, say, like his big 20th, you can bet that the keepers are going to really do it up for the water-loving, roly-poly sweetheart.
Which they did. Guests donned birthday hats and sang "Happy Birthday" to the furry fellow. And did he enjoy some tasty treats that were created his honor? You bet.
Charlie's start, and arrival at the Long Beach-based aquarium, has some heart-tugs to it, no doubt. He was but a pup, really, or just past pupdom when he was "...stranded, rescued, and deemed non-releasable to the wild before arriving to the Aquarium in 1998."
As far as the typical lifespan for a male southern sea otter? Aquarium experts put it at around 15 years.
Charlie has passed his nearly two decades as a denizen of the aquatic institution dining on delicious, nutrious seafood and delighting the infatuated humans who linger to watch as he splashes and twirls about.
Even if you didn't get a chance to attend Charlie's party, wave hello to him next time you're at the Aquarium of the Pacific. He's an otter-amazing celebrity here in Southern California and beyond, and he has now passed a birthday-big marker.
An immigration judge granted bond Thursday to a 26-year-old Salvadoran woman seeking asylum in the United States, allowing her to leave an immigration detention facility to seek treatment for a brain tumor.
Sara Beltran Hernandez's family in New York posted her $15,000 bond after the hearing and she will be released by the end of the day from the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, south of Fort Worth, an Amnesty International official said. She has been held in the detention center since November 2015.
"She's going to get medical treatment hopefully in New York. She might get checked out here first to make sure she's OK to travel. Then she'll be treated there," Beltran Hernandez's lawyer, Fatma Marouf, said after the hearing in Dallas.
Beltran Hernandez has been seeking asylum in the U.S. for almost a year and a half, saying she can't return to El Salvador because of the risk of domestic violence and threats of gang violence specific to her family. Beltran Hernandez has two small children in El Salvador who would be allowed to join her if she is granted asylum.
Chris Hamilton, a Dallas-area attorney initially involved in the effort to free Beltran Hernandez, said last month she complaind about headaches, nosebleeds and memory loss before she collapsed on Feb. 10. She was transported to Texas Huguley Hospital where she was diagnosed with a brain tumor that requires surgery.
Her attorneys have said they had trouble visiting her and had difficulty reaching her by phone. Immigration and Custom Enforcement officials have said she was able to speak by phone with her family and her attorney of record while at the hospital.
Hamilton claims Beltran Hernandez was forceibly removed from the hospital after two weeks. A spokesperson for ICE said Beltran Hernandez was discharged from the hospital and was returned to the detention center.
Beltran Hernandez had sought a conditional release to have more control over her medical care. She has already been denied bond twice.
Marouf said a specialist Monday confirmed that Beltran Hernandez has a large tumor on her pituitary gland. She said it was determined to not be cancerous and did not need to be immediately removed.
Marouf said the doctor recommended that the woman be monitored because the tumor had hemorrhaged and that she return for scans every six weeks. She and the other attorneys said they were concerned that the necessary level of monitoring was not being done at the detention center's medical facility.
"I think she is just trying to absorb it all. I think she's going to be overwhelmingly happy to be with her family again. She really cries because she misses her family a lot," Marouf said.
The release comes after a campaign by Amnesty International, which mobilized members across the country to call ICE and ask for her to be set free.
Sara and her family are overjoyed that she will finally be able to be with her loved ones and receive medical care after being unjustly detained for over 400 days, said Eric Ferrero of Amnesty International USA. Sara never should have been held for so long in the first place, let alone with a medical issue. It is unconscionable to treat people fleeing violence and danger as if they are criminals. Applying for asylum should not mean giving up ones human rights in the process.
Beltran-Hernandezs release will allow her to reside with her family in New York City while her asylum claim is processed.
The Trump administration's back-to-back controversies over its Russian ties now have at least one thing in common: Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Moscow's top diplomat in the U.S. has become the Kevin Bacon of the Trump White House's Russia imbroglio. A Washington fixture with a sprawling network, he has emerged as the central figure in the investigations into Trump advisers' connections with Russia. In a matter of weeks, contact with Kislyak led to the firing of a top adviser to the president and, on Thursday, prompted calls for the attorney general to resign.
Separately, a White House official confirmed Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and ousted national security adviser Michael Flynn met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in December for what the official called a brief courtesy meeting. Flynn was pushed out of the White House last month after officials said he misled Vice President Mike Pence about whether he and the ambassador had discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia in a phone call.
At issue Thursday were two meetings between Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Kislyak one in July and another in September, at the height of concern over Russia's involvement in hacking of Democratic officials' emails accounts. Intelligence officials have since concluded Moscow ordered the hacks to tilt the election toward Trump. In his confirmation hearing, the Alabama Republican denied having contact with any Russian officials, neglecting to mention the meetings with Kislyak, which were first reported by the Washington Post.
The Russian Embassy did not respond to a request for comment.
Although the White House dismissed the revelation as part of a political witch hunt, Sessions' former colleagues took the omission seriously. At the urging of some in his own party, Sessions recused himself from the Department of Justice's investigation. Still, Democrats called for him to step down.
Observers note Kislyak is a somewhat unlikely figure to cause controversy. Over the course of a long diplomatic career, he's led the life of a somewhat typical global envoy making himself a reliable presence on the circuit of receptions, teas and forums that make up the calendar of any ambassador.
Kislyak, who was appointed to his post in 2008, is regularly spotted walking around town, heading to and from meetings. Early in his tenure, he often opened the doors of the Russian Embassy, hosting dinners for foreign policy professionals, Pentagon officials, journalists and Capitol Hill staffers.
Those who have attended the events describe him as a gracious and amiable diplomat, although perhaps not as polished nor as confrontational as his more famous boss, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
In 2015, when Kislyak invited a group of Washington-based journalists, including one from the Associated Press, to the Russian Embassy for tea, he used the meeting to push warmer relations between the two nations despite the conflict over Russia's seizure of Crimea and the crisis in Ukraine.
Kislyak framed U.S.-Russian relations as salvageable and hoped specifically to combat what he considered cartoonish, anti-Russian depictions of his government in the American press.
At a press conference where he recused himself from the investigation into the Trump campaign's ties with Russia, Sessions said he discussed a number of things with Kislyak, including counterterrorism. He said the meeting became confrontational when the discussion turned to Ukraine.
Kislyak, 66, has bounced between the United States and Russia for most of his long career.
His first foreign posting was to New York where he worked at the Soviet delegation at the United Nations in the early 1980s. He spent the following years as the first secretary and then councilor at the Soviet Embassy in Washington before returning to Moscow in 1989, where he took a succession of senior jobs at the Foreign Ministry.
He did a stint as Russian ambassador to Belgium and simultaneously served as Moscow's envoy at NATO. He then returned to Moscow to serve as a deputy foreign minister, overseeing relations with the United States and arms control issues before being sent to Washington.
Kislyak's contacts have sparked questions about his role or involvement in the hacking, questions that are difficult to answer.
The U.S. and Russia, along with many other countries, have made it a practice to separate their top diplomats from espionage activities, although it is not uncommon for an intelligence agent to operate under the cover of a senior-level diplomat. Foreign diplomats to the United States likely expect that their activities will be monitored by U.S. authorities in the same manner that American diplomats are monitored in countries like Russia.
Russian ambassadors most likely are aware of the intelligence agents operating under diplomatic cover, but are not believed to part of the security services themselves.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Thursday ridiculed the claims of Kislyak's involvement in espionage as "total disinformation" and part of efforts to sway public opinion.
"I'll open a military secret for you: It's the diplomats' jobs to have contacts in the country they are posted to," she said sarcastically. "It's their obligation to meet with officials and members of the political establishment."
Captain the green sea turtle has her own pool, her own team taking care of her, and she seems to love the attention. Shes the star of Nova Southeastern Universitys brand-new Marine Environmental Education Center, the MEEC.
We have a great way to reach out, tell people the story of this turtle and all turtles, how important they are to the ecosystem, said Dr. Dick Dodge, dean of the NSU Halmos College of Natural Sciences and Oceanography.
Captain was critically injured in a boat collision and cant be released into the wild. Of the worlds seven species of sea turtles, five are known to frequent Florida waters or nest on the states beaches. All of them are endangered, so the MEEC, which is a partnership between Broward County and NSU, takes it upon itself to educate the public.
But it makes it a fun place for an educational institution and not just a lecture, its interactive, it allows young people to see the reason why we talk about saving the environment, said George Hanbury, NSU president.
Located on Surf Road on Hollywood Beach, steps away from a sea turtle nesting area, the MEEC has exhibits ranging from which lights are turtle-safe, to computer screens tracking turtles that are tagged with satellite transmitters, to showing how TEDs, or Turtle Excluder Devices, work on fishing boats.
Sea turtles are an integral part of the marine ecosystem and a really iconic animal so we hope that the children will learn about turtles but also about the broader picture of how important it is that we have a vibrant, healthy ecosystem, Dodge said.
Theres no doubt that kids will be captivated by watching Captain in her pool. The MEEC will be a magnet for school field trips, and thats really the whole point.
This is huge because these are animals that people dont get to interact with normally, said Beth Whitman, a doctoral candidate at FIU who studies green sea turtles in the wild.
Whitman says the MEEC will leave an indelible impression on people.
If they come and have a personal interaction with an animal like this and when they learn about their natural habitat theyre gonna have more ownership and be more invested in preserving their natural habitat, Whitman said.
Thats certainly the hope that the light of conservation turns on for every visitor.
If youre interested in seeing its exhibits, the MEEC is located at 4414 Surf Road in Hollywood. They converted the historic Carpenter House into the new educational center.
U.S. authorities have charged an Arkansas man with sexually abusing children while working as a missionary in Haiti.
Daniel Pye became well-known among missionaries in Haiti as he helped coordinate relief efforts in Jacmel after the January 2010 earthquake. He was jailed for about five months in Haiti in 2011 amid a dispute with members of his U.S.-based mission over property belonging to their home for children.
Following a two-year investigation, federal prosecutors in Miami have charged Pye with four counts of traveling from South Florida to Haiti to engage in sexual conduct with children.
Pye was arrested Tuesday in Arkansas, where he lives with his wife and was working as a counselor at a behavioral center for children, according to court documents.
A judge in Texarkana, Arkansas, ruled that Pye, who has no criminal history, could be released on $5,000 bond after surrendering his passport. But a prosecutor in Miami filed a motion Thursday to have that order reversed, noting that the former missionary faced up to 30 years in prison on each count and had previously attempted to commit suicide.
The judge ordered responses to the motion by March 16, effectively keeping him in custody for now. Pye is expected to be transferred to Florida to be arraigned on the charges.
A public defender appointed to represent him in Arkansas did not respond to a telephone message seeking comment.
The investigation began in April 2015 with a call to a Homeland Security Investigations tip line alleging that Pye had sexually abused female minors at a home for children in Haiti from 2008 to 2012, according to the court documents.
Holding his bleeding face moments after being shot, a moving truck driver leaned on his co-workers as he waited for paramedics.
The three men were on their way to deliver furniture in the Redland when another box-truck ran a stop sign at Southwest 284 Street and 207 Avenue.
A harmless honk of the horn got the moving crew into trouble.
"He didn't stop, so my friend honked the truck and the other guy stopped the truck and started screaming," said Jeffrey Mesa who witnessed the shooting unfold.
Mesa says he and his crew tried to drive away, but the suspect truck followed them and then beat them to the next intersection and took aim.
"We were coming through the next stop sign and he was parked and aimed and shot at the window and shot my friend while he was driving," said witness Telaysis Lee.
Lee says he had to take the wheel, and turned down southwest 284 Street, stopping right in front of the house they were scheduled to deliver to.
They helped the victim, identified as Eliel Perez, out of the car and called for help.
"Road rage completely, I don't know what was wrong with the guy, he lost his mind I don't even know," he said.
Miami-Dade Police said Perez was shot twice with a shotgun and airlifted to Jackson South Trauma Center. He underwent surgery and has been released from the hospital.
Getty Images
The movers are still in shock over the sudden road rage violence.
"I'm speechless right now I don't know, I'm at a loss for words, I'm just hoping the best for my friend," Lee said.
The movers work for Two Men and a Truck. The company released a statement regarding Friday's incident:
"Eliel underwent surgery and has been released from the hospital. He is in good spirits and grateful for the outpouring of support today. We are incredibly proud of the compassion and response of our team involved in this terrible incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with Eliel as he continues to recover."
Police are still looking for the shooter, who was believed to have been in a white box-type truck. Witnesses say the suspect is Hispanic, average height with long hair.
An SUV crashed into a house in Miami injuring one person Thursday evening.
Miami Fire Rescue responded to the scene located on Northwest 33rd Street and 12th Avenue. The SUV plowed into the car port area of the house.
Officials said the driver is a man in his 50s. He was rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital in serious condition. They also said an 80-year-old woman was inside the house at the time of impact. She was not injured.
Fire Rescue officials said the cause of the crash is unknown. Witnesses at the scene told investigators the driver was acting bizarre when he stepped out of the SUV.
The residents of the home are not allowed to stay in the home until inspectors deem the house safe. Officials also said the SUV will not be removed until they are certain the structure is safe.
Officials have not released the driver's identity.
Check back with NBC 6 for updates on this developing story.
Miami-Dade Police have arrested a woman for the murder of an 85-year-old man last month.
Lashundra Fair, 31, was arrested Thursday on a second-degree murder charge in the killing of Carlton Fair, police said.
Fair remained behind bars without bond Friday, jail records showed. It was unknown if she's hired an attorney.
Police said they responded to a home on Northwest 74th Street back on Feb. 20 and found Carlton Fair with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detectives discovered that Lashundra Fair had shot and killed him before fleeing the home, police said. As she fled she tossed the firearm in a neighboring yard, police said.
Lashundra Fair was later found and gave investigators a statement detailing her involvement in the killing, police said.
Police haven't given a motive for the shooting or said what the relationship was between the woman and elderly man.
On Thursday, Costco (COST) reported weaker-than-expected results as earnings missed and profit margins slipped.
Notably, the company announced plans to raise membership fees for the first time in five years, a move that had been expected by analysts. On Friday, shares of Costco were down about 4%.
On the companys earnings call, management was asked whether the companys hit on margins was due to more aggressive pricing from Costco spurred by competition from other retail giants like Walmart (WMT) and Target (TGT) who are competing both with Costcos wholesale pricing and Amazons (AMZN) free-shipping offerings.
Costco sees whats happening, but is not directly responding. Costco CFO Richard Galanti said Thursday on the call that its recent pricing initiatives are, really not terribly related tothe fact that theres increased levels of competition.
When we look at our direct competitors notably direct warehouse clubs and certainly supermarkets on certain key fresh foods and sundries items a lot of what you read about were some of the big box discounters and their investment in price, which is formidable, Galanti added.
Galanti specifically mentioned Walmart and Target, who are more direct competition for supermarkets.
Costco is about more than everyday low prices.
Also recall that earlier this year, Walmart increased the amount of items it has eligible for two-day free shipping, cut its membership fee to be eligible for this benefit to $0, and lowered the minimum order to get this benefit. This aims to make Walmart a more direct competitor Amazons Prime offering, which includes streaming music, video, and other shipping benefits for $100/year.
And so some might say that because Costco, like Amazon Prime, charges a membership fee it is on some level in competition with that service. Additionally, Costco sells bulk household items that Walmart and Amazon are hoping to get consumers to buy online rather than in-store. But as was clear from the companys call, Costco sees itself as playing in a different sandbox from Amazon.
Story continues
Ive shared I think a little bit of the kinds of things were doing [in e-commerce], from member experience, to faster delivery, to expanding items, and arguably, letting our members know that we have it, Galanti said. Again, it started off years ago as limited big ticket items, hard to carry, hard to deliver, hard to install items, and weve added to that. We feel again, fine with where we are.
Galanti added, Yes, there are bigger increases out there, but I would bet that the investment per dollar of increase is dwarfed everywhere else. Im not trying to be cute about that because we are investing more in it, but doing it in an offensive rather than a defensive way. We still are a brick and mortar entity and we want to get you into the store because youre going to buy more in the warehouse. (Emphasis added.)
In other words, Amazon and Walmart are likely to garner the headlines about big pushes into new e-commerce offerings, and the decline of malls and the retail sector will still dominate the news flow. But Costco is focused first and foremost on its member experience part of why it pays employees well and that begins in-store, not online.
Amazon is an online retailer. Or is it?
Analysts are still positive
And for Costcos membership fee increase and the quarter in general the news is being positively received by analysts.
The long anticipated fee increase is finally here, UBS Michael Lasser wrote Friday.
There might be a sell the news type reaction for the stock. But, the earnings power this move provides shouldnt be ignored. Lasser sees increased membership fees adding 3% to earnings per share over the 12 months following the June 1, 2017 introduction, and 7% to EPS after 23 months.
While the quarter seems to represent a hiccup for this consensus-long stock, we do not believe its a thesis changer, writes Edward Kelly at Credit Suisse. Sales should continue to improve as comparisons ease, the fuel headwind should begin to abate in Q3, the fee increase/card benefit provides upside for investment, and the outlook for earnings growth looks good against a challenged retail landscape.
The uncharacteristically messy results that COST reported late [Thursday] are likely to spur discussion among retailing-stock investors for some time, writes Oppenheimer analyst Brian Nagel.
We spent a lot of time digging through trends and chatting with management. For us, the key message is that a Q2 miss; at COST reflects largely mis-modeling on the part of analysts amid a recent spike in fuel prices, and masks underlying improving fundamental health within the COST business model We recommend clients use any share price weakness today as an intermediate- to longer-term buying opportunity.
Myles Udland is a writer at Yahoo Finance. Follow him on Twitter @MylesUdland
Read more from Myles here:
A major battle to liberate the Islamic State group's stronghold of Raqqa in northern Syria is looming, with U.S. officials looking to build on momentum from victories on the battlefields of Mosul in Iraq. The Pentagon has drawn up a secret plan to do that, likely leaning on local allies with stepped-up American support.
The question is: who are those local allies in the tangled mess that is Syria's conflict?
Syrian government forces, Turkish troops and their Syrian militia allies, and U.S.-backed Kurdish forces all have their eye on Raqqa. Each vehemently rejects letting the others capture the city and would likely react in anger should the United States support the others. And it is not clear that any has the resources to take the city on its own.
"Raqqa is more of an abstract goal: everyone wants it in principle, but no one is willing to commit the resources and bear the risks necessary," said Faysal Itani, an analyst at the Washington-based Atlantic Council.
The fall of Raqqa, the Islamic State group's de facto capital and largest remaining stronghold, would be the biggest defeat for the militants in Syria since they captured the northern city on the banks of the Euphrates River in January 2014.
President Donald Trump has vowed to "obliterate" the group. "We will work with our allies, including our friends and allies in the Muslim world, to extinguish this vile enemy from our planet," he told Congress on Tuesday.
The top U.S. commander in the campaign against ISIS, Lt. Gen. Stephen Townsend, has said he believes Raqqa and Mosul will be taken within six months. So far, the offensive on Mosul has been underway four months, with only half the city captured from the militants in ferocious street-to-street urban combat. And that is using a relatively intensively trained and united military, backed by heavy U.S. firepower and commandos on the ground a contrast to the comparatively undisciplined and fragmented forces the U.S. has to choose from as allies in Syria.
Raqqa is a smaller city than Mosul, but the militants are believed to have dug in with powerful fortifications there.
In Syria, U.S-backed predominantly Kurdish fighters known as the Syria Democratic Forces, or SDF, remain Trump's best bet. Aided by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes and some 500 U.S. special forces troops deployed in an advisory role, the force has been marching toward Raqqa since November. Closing in on the city from different directions, it is now stationed some eight kilometers (five miles) north of the city.
The U.S. military recently provided a small number of armored vehicles to the U.S.-backed force to give better protection from small arms fire and roadside bombs as they get closer to Raqqa.
Further aid to the rag-tag group, however, raises sensitive questions over how to deal with Turkey, a NATO ally with much at stake in Syria. Turkey considers the main Kurdish militia in Syria known as the YPG, and an affiliate of the U.S.-backed SDF a terrorist organization, and has vowed to work with Syrian opposition fighters known as the Free Syrian Army to liberate Raqqa.
In a dramatic reversal of years of the Obama administration's calls for the ouster of President Bashar Assad, Trump has hinted he might be willing to work with Assad's army and Russia, whose year-and-a-half military intervention has propped up Assad's government.
Assad's forces are preoccupied with other battles, however, and would likely need significant U.S. military involvement to take on Raqqa. On Wednesday, the Syrian military recaptured the central town of Palmyra, a city located in the desert south of Raqqa that has gone back and forth between control of the military and the extremists several times. The government forces have also clashed with the Turkish-backed Syrian fighters, who block their path to Raqqa.
Syrians are sharply divided over who should enter Raqqa. Many opposition supporters consider the SDF, which maintains a tacit non-aggression pact with Assad's forces, to be a hostile group. There are also fears of tensions if Raqqa, home to a nearly 200,000 mainly Arab population, is taken by the SDF, a coalition of Kurdish, Arab and Christian fighters.
"Let us be frank that any force that will liberate Raqqa, other than the Free Syrian Army, is going to be a new occupation force with different flags and banners," said Mohammed Khodor of Sound and Picture Organization, which tracks atrocities by ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim was even more blunt, warning that if the SDF enters Raqqa, it will hurt relations between Ankara and Washington.
"We have said that a terror organization cannot be used against another terror organization," the Turkish leader told the state-run Anadolu news agency.
The Kurds reject that notion and insist that only forces fighting under the SDF banner will liberate Raqqa.
"Turkey is an occupation force and has no legitimate right to enter Raqqa," said SDF spokeswoman Cihan Sheikh Ehmed. In a text message exchange from northern Syria, she said the SDF has the experience in fighting ISIS to finish the operation.
Battlefield victories by the SDF against the Islamic State group have brought growing Western support. Asked if adding more U.S. troops or better arming Syria's Kurds were options, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said he will "accommodate any request" from his field commanders.
In Mosul, the U.S.-led coalition is playing a greater role than ever before in the fight against ISIS and coalition forces have moved closer to front-line fighting.
U.S. Air Force Col. John Dorrian says the increased support is an effort to "accelerate the campaign" against the Islamic State group, noting that launching simultaneous operations in both Mosul and Raqqa "puts further strain on the enemy's command and control."
"It is a complicating factor when you don't have a partner government to work with," conceded Dorrian, adding that whoever the coalition partners with in the fight for Raqqa is "a subject of ongoing discussions."
Wladimir van Wilgenburg, a Middle East analyst at the Jamestown Foundation who closely follows Kurdish affairs, says the U.S.-led coalition wants to have a quick end to ISIS in Raqqa, from which external operations against the West are planned. That means it would prefer to work with the Kurdish-led SDF forces "since they are able to mobilize manpower unlike the Turks," he said.
In any case, the battle for Raqqa is sure to be a long and deadly one. It took the SDF nearly 10 weeks to capture the northern Syrian town of Manbij from ISIS last year. It took Turkish forces and allied groups more than three months to retake the town of al-Bab, a costly battle that killed dozens of Turkish soldiers and many civilians.
Raqqa is much larger than either Manbij or al-Bab. Some Syrian opposition activists say the extremists dug a trench around it to make it difficult for attackers to storm it.
"It would be difficult for any troops," said Itani of the Atlantic Council.
"Witness the slow and ugly progress in Mosul as well. Raqqa would be tough," he said.
Associated Press writer Susannah George contributed to this report.
What to Know East Hampton police arrested Jefferson Eames on Thursday on a variety of drug and child welfare charges
A News 4 I-Team report in February said Eames' home was notorious for drug-fueled teen parties
A star high school athlete's near-death from a drug overdose at the house was filmed on Snapchat
The father of a teenager known for throwing notorious drug parties at an East Hampton home -- including one party where a star high school athlete's near-death was captured on Snapchat -- has been arrested, police said Friday.
Jefferson Eames, 48, faces charges of selling controlled substances, endangering the welfare of children and violating the county's hosting laws.
He was arrested Thursday after trying to enter his house and close the door on police, authorities said. He is expected to be arraigned later Friday.
Information on an attorney for Eames wasn't immediately available.
"This arrest should help parents in the community recognize our department is working diligently to combat drug and alcohol abuse by minors, and will continue to thoroughly investigate any complaints of underage drinking or drug use," said East Hampton Town Police Chief Michael D. Sarlo.
Sarlo said it was a "difficult and protracted" case to close because of HIPAA privacy laws, good Samaritan laws and uncooperative witnesses.
Last month, News 4 New York's I-Team reported that the house was known for its underage, drug-fueled parties and that police had been called there numerous times.
Eighteen-year-old Jordan Johnson was a star athlete at East Hampton High School -- until January, when he was rushed to Southampton Hospital, nearly dead after suffering a drug overdose there.
A Snapchat video posted around 8 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, shows a boy shouting through a megaphone into Jordans ear. Jordan does not appear to hear, and he lays motionless while his peers continue to use the megaphone directly in his ear. A caption on the video reads, "Why is he out still."
Police say they did not receive a 911 call about this incident until 9:18 the following morning. Sources confirmed at the time that an adult was present in the house during Johnson's overdose.
NBCUniversal and Snapchat are in a business relationship.
What to Know Attorney General Jeff Sessions said he will recuse himself from any Russian probe
President Trump defended Sessions, calling the uproar over his Russia contacts a "total witch hunt"
Bitcoin surpassed gold in value for the first time ever
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Jeff Sessions Recuses Himself
Attorney General Jeff Sessions may not have been clear about his contacts with Russian officials during the 2016 election, but this much is: The controversy over any Kremlin involvement in American politics is not going to fade away anytime soon. Sessions on Thursday became the second high-ranking member of the Trump administration to take a hit over conversations with Russia's envoy to the U.S., recusing himself from any probe that examines communications between Trump aides and Moscow but facing down calls for his resignation. An early backer and key adviser for Trump's campaign, Sessions said his staff recommended that he step aside from a probe.
Russian Ambassador in Spotlight
The Trump administration's back-to-back controversies over its Russian ties now have at least one thing in common: Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. A Washington fixture with a sprawling network, he has emerged as the central figure in the investigations into Trump advisers' connections with Russia. In a matter of weeks, contact with Kislyak led to the firing of a top adviser to the president and, on Thursday, prompted calls for the attorney general to resign. A White House official says Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and the man who would become national security adviser, Michael Flynn, met with Kislyak in December.
Trump Defends Sessions, Touts Military Buildup
Embracing a stronger defense, President Trump met with sailors and shipbuilders on an aircraft carrier in Virginia as he promoted his plans for a major military buildup. A draft budget plan released earlier this week by the White House would add $54 billion to the Pentagon's projected budget, a 10 percent increase. Trump traveled Thursday to Newport News to deliver a speech aboard the Gerald R. Ford. While there were mounting calls for Sessions to resign or recuse himself, Trump stood by Sessions Thursday, saying he had "total" confidence in his attorney general.
Rick Perry Sworn in as Energy Secretary
Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry sworn in as secretary of the Department of Energy. The Senate confirmed former Texas Gov. Rick Perry to serve as energy secretary under President Trump earlier Thursday. The vote was 62-37. Perry who once pledged to eliminate the department has repeatedly promised be an advocate for the agency and to protect the nation's nuclear stockpile. Perry also has said he'd rely on federal scientists, including those who work on climate change.
Bitcoin Value Surpasses Gold
Bitcoin hit a major milestone on Thursday, surpassing the price of an ounce of gold for the first time in its history. Some investors are now saying this development solidifies the Bitcoin currency as "digital gold." The price of one Bitcoin was $1,271 by Thursday evening, according to CoinDesk's Bitcoin Price Index. An ounce of gold was priced at $1,235, according to Oklahoma-based precious metals retailer APMEX. Bitcoin, created in 2009 by software developer called Satoshi Nakamoto, is a type of digital currency that computers "mine." Unlike dollars or euros, the currency is not printed.
Duo Behind Oscars Flub Under Guard
A spokeswoman for the PwC auditing firm says the company has hired protection for the two accountants responsible for the best-picture flub at the Oscars. Carey Bodenheimer said Thursday that PwC is providing security to Brian Cullinan and Martha Ruiz. They are the accountants who were dismissed by the film academy Wednesday for mishandling the winners' envelopes at Sunday's 89th Academy Awards.
Tom Hanks Buys Espresso Machine for Press
Apparently, Tom Hanks thinks the White House Press Corps is going to be working many late nights over the next few years. Hanks delivered a big thank you in the form of a brand new espresso machine delivered to the White House press room. "Keep up the good fight for Truth, Justice, and the American Way. Especially the Truth part," a note read.
Colorblind Haircut Goes Viral
Jax Rosebush, who is white, wanted a buzz cut to match the hair of his friend Reddy, who is black. He was thrilled because he didn't think his teacher would be able to tell the two apart -- and after his mom posted about it on Facebook, the Louisville, Kentucky boy's story has gone viral.
Leopard Born Via Artificial Insemination
A clouded leopard was born at the Nashville Zoo. It's the first time that a member of the species has been born by artificial insemination. Clouded leopards are among the rarest of the world's cat species and are difficult to breed in captivity. Watch an adorable video of the critter.
John Lithgow on Tonight
John Lithgow dished on his surprising casting as Winston Churchill for Netflix's "The Crown" and returning to NBC for crime mockumentary "Trial and Error." Watch the interview.
Authorities are slowly piecing together the details that led up to a police-involved shooting near a bustling New Jersey neighborhood.
Police opened fire at a man thought to be in his 20s after he allegedly ran toward cops brandishing a knife at around 9:30 a.m., law enforcement sources said.
Andrew Levine was one of several people who walked by the busy intersection near Levine Street at Main Street in Paterson Thursday morning. He said he heard shots go off while he was sitting in his truck; his neighbor called 911 shortly after.
"I was sitting in my truck in the parking lot outside," he said. "I heard a pop pop, pause for a second, and then pop pop."
Others curiously stepped outside to see what was going on. Levine says his neighbor told him he decided to call the cops when he spotted the man with a knife.
"He called the cops because he looked like he was stalking people," Levine said.
The suspect is at St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center, a block away from the scene of the shooting. His injury wasn't considered life-threatening, but the county hasn't released his current condition, law enforcement source said.
Ahmad Yasin, who lives nearby, said it wasn't the first time he had seen the knife-waving man residents say he's been lurking around the neighborhood for months.
"I've been seeing him for maybe the last three or four months," Yasin said. "The last two days he's been out here all day, from morning 'til night, walking up and down the street."
Passaic County Prosecutors say no one else was injured, but sent K-9s to the scene to sniff around for any clues.
A 19-year-old man living in Stamford who allegedly abused a 3-year-old relative was arrested just a day before he was scheduled for an immigration hearing, authorities say.
Douglas Hus-Flores, a high school senior who was living with his aunt, allegedly abused the girl Wednesday night, according to court papers. The toddler was crying for her mother, and Flores, hoping to calm her down, gave her yogurt and let her watch cartoons on his phone.
While sitting on the couch, police say the teen sexually abused her.
The investigation began when the toddler was taken to Stamford Hospital after complaining of pain to her mother. The child was bleeding and had unspecified injuries.
The girl's mother told News 4, "She says 'Douglas hit me.' I asked where, and she showed me her private parts."
The mother was in tears as she said, "I feel like hot water in my body."
Court papers say Flores told police, "He doesn't know what came over him. Douglas said he had felt lonely and wanted to be with a woman."
Flores' father, Edwin Juarez, said his son admitted to abusing the girl.
"He's sad. He called me yesterday. He's sad about what happened," he said.
Flores moved to Connecticut from Guatemala two years ago seeking political asylum, authorities said. He was undocumented, and had been stopped by immigration officials several times.
Flores was arraigned Thursday and has an immigration detainer on him, meaning he can't be released without going before immigration officials. He is being held on a $250,000 bond, and is next scheduled to appear in court on April 4. It wasn't clear if he had an attorney.
Stamford Police Lt. Tom Barcello said, "You have a very young victim. The only saving grace is that through time she forgets she is so young."
The University of California, San Diego student behind the controversial Japanese internment-style fliers calling for the removal of Muslims in San Diego County told NBC 7 that the entire incident was a big misunderstanding.
The student, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed responsibility for the posters, which follows the same formatting of Internment Notices that signaled the roundup of thousands of Japanese Americans during World War II. The posters were uncovered Wednesday night in at least two residential halls.
The student told NBC 7 that he is Japanese-American, a key piece of context that got lost in the stunt.
His grandparents were forced to live in one of the 10 internment camps that were built because he believes not enough people voiced opposition.
He said the fliers were in no way anti-Muslim and were intended to serve as a warning for what could happen under the new administration, noting that he wanted to start a conversation about Muslims in America.
"Actually, I do kind of find the extent to which people are angry kind of comforting, because it means they care," the student said. "And it means that history probably won't be repeated, but again, this went farther than I wanted it to."
He said most people saw the posters and had an immediate reaction, but many missed the red writing at the bottom: messages of solidarity from the Japanese.
The UCSD Triton Newspaper first alerted NBC 7 to the story. The posters caused quite a stir inside Argo Hall, a residential hall in Revelle College.
In part, the poster read:
"All Muslim persons, both alien and non-alien, will be evacuated from the above designated area by 12:00 o'clock noon Wednesday, April 8, 2017. No Muslim person will be permitted to enter or leave the above described area after 8:00 a.m., Thursday, April 2, 2017, without obtaining special permission from the Provost Marshal at the Civil Control Station..."
Students who spoke to NBC 7 on Thursday said they were initially outraged at the fliers and the tone it took about the Japanese internment.
One student, Kalpa Semasinghe, said the poster made him feel "disgusted."
When Semasinghe read the red print at the bottom, and learned that a Japanese-American had posted the sign, he said his attitude changed.
The President of the Muslim Student Association on campus said that he felt "a lot more calm" about the posters once he understood the creator's intention.
"Now I understand that the person who posted it did it with good intent," Tarek Gouda, president of the Muslim Student Association said. "I do think there could have been more communication maybe with the Muslim and Japanese students on campus."
UC San Diego has a history of racial unrest. In 2010, the Compton Cookout party that mocked Black History month drew backlash and sparked protests on campus. In two other incidents in the following weeks, a noose was found hanging in a campus library and a KKK-style hood was placed on a statue outside the main campus library.
The incident comes amid a spike of hate crimes and other hate-related cases in the U.S. in recent months.
According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, the number of hate groups rose from 892 in 2015 to 917 in 2016. The number of anti-Muslim hate groups saw the greatest rise, increasing to 101 from 34 in 2015, according to the annual census of hate groups by the SPLC. The increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes coincided with the increase of these hate groups, the report said.
The student behind the posters said overall, he thinks the fliers were a failure, but told me one of the goals of the project was to get people fired up.
He just did not account for how fired up they would actually be.
A South Jersey high school used the use of a racial slur in its upcoming musical as an opportunity for the school to educate students.
Cherry Hill East welcomed Brian Stokes Mitchell, an original Ragtime cast member, to the school Friday afternoon to discuss the controversial musical about race relations set at the turn of the 20th Century.
The N-word is used numerous times during the musical and in some cases isnt used in productions. Cherry Hill East, however, decided to keep the word in with hopes of creating a conversation about race.
In January, Cherry Hill Superintendent Joseph Meloche wrote a letter explaining the school's decision to perform Ragtime as written.
"These are tumultuous, difficult times. We believe that while these difficult times provide challenges in our educational community, they also provide an opportunity and an obligation to educate," Meloche wrote. "We believe we can educate using difficult subject matter presented in a safe, sensitive way."
The school put together curriculum dealing with racial issues and the use of the N-word.
"We will make it abundantly clear that we loathe the N-word, that we despise this most vile of words in our language," Meloche wrote. "Loathing of the N-word was a theme reiterated by Mitchell during his visit to Cherry Hill East Friday one week before Ragtime debuts.
"It should be an ugly word, it is an ugly word, it's not a word to use, it's not appropriate to use the word and that's again the point of Ragtime... it's meant to have that effect," Mitchell said.
"If people are not thinking it's an ugly word, those are the people I'm concerned with," Mitchell told students.
Ragtime runs from March 10 to March 19 at Cherry Hill East. [[238427591, C]]
A New Jersey woman was pummeled in her home when she came face to face with a would-be burglar who had broken in, police say.
The South Orange woman told police she was on the third floor of her Ward Place home at about 10:15 a.m. on Feb. 22 when she heard noises coming from the second floor.
When she went to check it out, she discovered a stranger, apparently about to steal property from inside. The intruder punched the woman repeatedly, then ran away, police said.
The suspect is described as being in his 30s, about 5 feet 10 inches, last seen wearing a black hooded sweater and blue jeans. It appears he'd gotten into the house through a sliding door in the back, police said.
Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to call police at 973-763-7788.
Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, smiles before speaking with Bill Gates (not pictured), at Columbia University in New York, U.S., January 27, 2017. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton
By Maiya Keidan and Lawrence Delevingne
LONDON/NEW YORK (Reuters) - David Harding, founder of one of the world's biggest hedge funds, on Friday defended his firm against Warren Buffett's criticism of hedge fund fees last week.
Multi-millionaire Harding said Buffett has a "habit of being right" but added that his own Winton Capital business, which manages more than $30 billion, offered lower fees and creditable returns to investors.
Buffett told investors last Saturday that low-cost index funds are a better option for most than paying higher fees to managers who often underperform, specifically hedge funds.
Harding is one of the first senior figures in the hedge fund industry to respond publicly to Buffett's comments.
"This is withering criticism of the active fund management industry overall, and it is hard to argue convincingly against," said Harding.
But Harding, who set up Winton in 1997, cautioned against tarring all firms with the same brush.
He argued that his Winton's funds have much lower fees than hedge funds are generally assumed to have and that the firm's risk-adjusted returns have been creditable. He did not give precise figures for returns.
Hedge funds made 5.51 percent on average in 2016, compared to losses of 1.12 percent in 2015 and gains of 2.98 percent and 9.13 percent in 2014 and 2013, respectively, according to data from Hedge Fund Research.
(Reporting by Maiya Keidan; Editing by Keith Weir)
A $225 million plan to build a park near Penns Landing and on top of Interstate 95 that Mayor Jim Kenney announced at his 2018 budget address is already near its necessary funding.
PennDOT will contribute $100 million to the park, a spokesman for the state transportation agency confirmed to NBC10 shortly after Kenney's speech Thursday morning.
That funding pushes the park's secured funding to $205 million after the William Penn Foundation also announced Thursday that it would give $15 million to the project. Kenney told PlanPhilly earlier in the week that the city would pay $90 million.
No timeline for the 11-acre park's completion was given. It would "cap" I-95 between Chestnut and Walnut streets.
"For decades, I-95 has been a barrier to economic development and recreational activity at Penns Landing and the surrounding neighborhoods," Kenney said in his address at Council chambers inside City Hall. "By finally funding a cap to link Philadelphias valuable waterfront with the citys core, this project is expected to have a return of $1.6 billion in economic benefit over the next 25 years."
Shawn McCaney, William Penn's executive director, said the new park will be "the centerpiece of a longterm effort to bring people and new economic activity to the river's edge."
"This project will not only transform the waterfront but it will transform our entire city by allowing residents and visitors to reclaim the Delaware riverfront as a new public space destination," McCaney said.
[NATL] Rio's Abandoned Olympic Ghost Town
President Donald Trump, his administration under siege for contacts with Russian officials, tweeted a photo Friday that showed Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer meeting with Putin in New York in 2003.
"We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin," he wrote. "A total hypocrite!"
Schumer responded on Twitter a short time later by writing that he would "happily talk" under oath about his meeting with Putin, which took place "in full view of press and public."
The New York senator challenged Trump to do the same then followed up on Twitter by writing, "And for the record, they were Krispy Kreme donuts."
We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite! pic.twitter.com/Ik3yqjHzsA Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 3, 2017
Later Friday, Trump went after House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi of California, tweeting: "I hereby demand a second investigation, after Schumer, of Pelosi for her close ties to Russia, and lying about it." His initial tweet included the misspelled word "hearby," but that tweet was later replaced.
He linked to a Politico story that reported that Pelosi had said she had never met with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. But the story includes a photo of Pelosi shows her at a 2010 meeting sitting across the table from Kislyak.
Pelosi fired back on Twitter, saying Trump "doesn't know difference between official mtg photographed by press & closed secret mtg his AG lied about under oath."
.@realDonaldTrump doesn't know difference between official mtg photographed by press & closed secret mtg his AG lied about under oath. https://t.co/YRFCuJkjLA Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) March 3, 2017
Trump's tweets come a day after Attorney General Jeff Sessions came under scrutiny for his two meetings with a Russian ambassador.
The photo showing Putin and Schumer together was shot when Putin was visiting New York to celebrate the expansion of Russian-owned Lukoil gas stations, NBC News reported.
Before it was elevated to the president's Twitter feed Friday it was featured on several conservative websites, including The Drudge Report.
On the same trip to the United States in 2003, Putin traveled to Camp David, Maryland, where he met with Republican President George W. Bush and the two held a joint news conference.
Trump has been trailed for months by questions about potential ties to Russia. He has vigorously denied being aware of any contacts his associates had with Russia during the campaign and has also insisted he has no financial ties to Russia.
Sessions on Thursday became the second high-ranking member of the Trump administration to take a hit over conversations with Russia's envoy to the U.S., recusing himself from any probe that examines communications between Trump aides and Moscow but facing down calls by Schumer and other Democrats for his resignation. An early backer and key adviser for Trump's campaign, Sessions said his staff recommended that he step aside from a probe.
Two weeks ago, retired Gen. Michael Flynn, resigned as national security adviser after misleading White House officials about his own discussions with Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Additional communication was revealed Thursday between Kislyak and Flynn and Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, at New York's Trump Tower. In addition, Carter Page, a former foreign policy adviser to Trump's presidential campaign, spoke with the ambassador last summer, according to a person with knowledge of the meeting.
Heads up, San Diego: Phoenix is coming for you. No, were not talkin about Zonie tourists packing up, ditching the triple-digit heat and traveling just a few clicks west to the land of beaches and palm trees (which they shouldve done from the beginning, amirite?) -- were talking about Phoenix, the band.
On Sunday, June 11, 91xs annual summer X-Fest returns to town and this years lineup features the aformentioned Phoenix, Empire of the Sun, Bob Moses, Skip Marley, Missio, the Lemon Twigs, Sir Sly, and Lo Moon -- with more bands to be announced at a later date.
This year's X-Fest will mark the first time Phoenix has stopped in town since their last San Diego performance held on Oct. 10, 2013 at UCSDs Rimac Arena. The French indie-pop juggernauts (known for hits like "Too Young," "1901" and Lisztomania) have hinted at a new album on the way this year (their latest is 2013s Bankrupt), and touring activity would seem to confirm that -- they head up to LAs Hollywood Bowl on June 15.
Scheduled to be held On the Green at Qualcomm Stadium -- which is the practice field in the southwest corner of the stadium -- 91x music director and midday radio host Hilary Chambers explained the choice of venue in a press release.
Its a scientific fact that people prefer concerts held on a grass field, Chambers said. The massive, well-maintained practice field at the Q gives us plenty of space to create an event for everyone to enjoy.
The show is open to all ages and pre-sale tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, March 3 for 91x fans with a special code here (pro tip: Its Qualcomm). Otherwise, tickets go on sale to the general public on Monday, March 6 at 10 a.m. PST.
For more information, visit 91x.com.
When Terrance Crow Jr. walked into Zappy Pizza in Rolando on Oct. 30, he immediately began loudly proclaiming his patriotism and how he despised Muslims, according to eyewitnesses who testified this week in a San Diego courtroom.
Crow was joined by Scott Peretti in a verbal attack against two customers, the eyewitness told San Diego Superior Court Judge Leo Valentine. One of the eyewitnesses and the alleged victim, identified as John Smith by the court in order to protect him against reprisals, said "as soon as they saw the two women waiting for pizza, they started making comments about them."
The two women were described as young Muslims wearing traditional Muslim dress, including headdresses.
According to Smith, the insults continued and one of the two men (it is unclear if it was Crow or Peretti) spoke to the women and said, "I love my country, the country where you can say 'f---astan,' where I can wipe my a-- with the Koran every day.
A 20-year-old Somali man was punched with a pair of brass knuckles and hit with a chair. Police confirmed that the incident was racially and religiously charged. NBC 7s Astrid Solorzano has more.
Smith said he was "offended by the insults, but said nothing at first. As the insults continued, Smith, who said he did not know the women, began to address Crow and Peretti, according to San Diego County Deputy District Attorney Oscar Garcia.
Smith told the court, he said, "I was born in San Diego, this is my country too. According to Smith, the men turned to him and said, You need to get out of this country.
He said the men seemed to be offended by his words, became more aggressive and began to move toward him.
"You need to leave the country, you don't belong here", Smith said the men told him as they took a couple more steps toward him before throwing punches at him.
Smith told the court he tried to protect himself by keeping his hands up, but the punches landed on his arm, his side, his forehead and his face. According to court testimony, this is when a third man, Sean Arevalo, entered the pizza shop.
In court, another eyewitness described how Arevalo reached into his pocket for something. Smith said he thought it was a knife and backed himself into a corner of the small shop as the three men surrounded him.
NBC 7
According to court testimony, Arevalo hit Smith in the head, knocking Smith to the floor. The men then told him to stay down before leaving the pizza shop.
Someone Garcia described as a "good Samaritan got the license plate number of the car the men got into. The car was later stopped by a San Diego Police Department officer and a curbside lineup was done for witnesses to identify the men.
Peretti, Crow and Arevalo are charged with felony hate crime and interfering with the civil rights of another, according to court documents. Garcia said when the insults turned to physical violence, the crime was no longer a hate incident but a hate crime. Arevalo was also charged with possession of metal knuckles because according to a witness, he used brass knuckles when hitting Smith in the head. In California law, possessing brass knuckles, described in the law as "metal knuckles", is a felony.
In court this week, Judge Valentine found enough evidence to move the case forward. The three men are scheduled to be back in court on April 10 and a jury trial has been scheduled to begin April 18. If found guilty, the men could get up to three years in prison.
The three men have pleaded not guilty to the charges. NBC 7 Investigates reached out to Peretti, Crow and Arevalos attorneys. The attorneys for Crow and Arevalo said neither they nor their client have any comment on the case. Perettis attorney has yet to respond.
This case has received national attention online in blog posts and on Facebook. According to the posts, the incident between Smith and the three men erupted over political tension involving now President Donald Trump, involved mutual verbal attacks and resulted in a scuffle.
Roger Ogden, the author of some of the blog posts is soliciting donations online to cover the three mens legal costs. So far, according to the online posting, 30 donors have contributed more than $2,200.00 towards a $5,000 goal for "three Americans falsely charged with a hate crime."
NBC 7 Investigates asked Ogden if the money raised was going to the two public defenders and the private attorney representing the three men but has yet to receive a response.
FBI agents have made an arrest in connection with a string of bomb threats targeting Jewish Community Centers across the county including the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center in La Jolla.
Juan Thomas, 31, of St. Louis, Missouri was arrested Friday.
The news was a huge relief to many of the families in La Jolla. The center was evacuated on February 21 when a security guard contacted San Diego Police to report a threat.
The facility is one of dozens of Jewish Community Centers in at least 20 states targeted since the beginning of the year.
Prosecutors say Thomas made at least eight threats to targeting Jewish people and centers in the name of an ex-girlfriend. They say his threats began in a campaign to harass and intimidate the former romantic interest after the relationship ended.
The FBI said Thomas may not be the only one behind the more than 100 threats made to JCC's across the country. They say he appears to be a "copycat."
Michael Cohen, Executive Director of the Lawrence Family JCC, said the center is grateful to learn of the arrest and looks forward to closure in the investigation of all threats.
While these threats are being investigated, we remain vigilant, Cohen wrote. Continue to take numerous security measures and are committed to the security and safety of our community above all else.
Thomas was expected to appear in a Missouri courtroom Friday afternoon.
A congressional leader in Mexico climbed the border fence between San Diego and Tijuana and posted the video and images on social media Thursday.
"Human rights, principles and dignity are non-negotiable," said Braulio Guerra, a state representative for Queretaro. Guerra had announced his plan to climb the fence March 1.
The posts to Twitter, written in Spanish, called President Donald Trumps plan to spend billions to build a wall between the two countries absurd and unnecessary.
He said it also will harm the relationship between the two countries.
Sencillo subir al #Muro pero son muchos los peligros para nuestra gente. Derechos Humanos, principios y dignidad son innegociables #Mexico pic.twitter.com/9PExn3RlnV Braulio Guerra (@BraulioPRI) March 2, 2017
On Jan. 25, President Trump signed an executive order to construct a "great wall."
The plan to build a wall between U.S. and Mexico has outraged some leaders in Mexico. Especially the idea that Mexico will pay for the construction of the wall.
A website to accept bids on building the proposed border wall will be open as of March 6.
Eighty percent of Mexico's exports are to the U.S. The Trump administration also has floated the idea of a border tax on Mexican products.
Construction cost estimates have varied widely. There are currently 354 miles of pedestrian fencing and 300 miles of vehicle barriers.
Republican leaders in Congress have said Trump's wall would cost between $12 billion and $15 billion, while Trump has suggested $12 billion.
A federal judge approved a $1 million legal settlement for the family of a man killed in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) custody in 2010.
Anastasio Hernandez-Rojas, 42, suffered a heart attack following a physical altercation with CBP agents that was subdued when officers deployed a stun gun, according to the Justice Department.
My husbands life does not have a price, Hernandez-Rojas wife Maria Puga said Thursday through an interpreter. This was a decision that had to be taken. It was difficult, but we had to turn the page.
The moment Hernandez-Rojas was killed was captured on cell-phone video by two pedestrians on a now non-existent pedestrian bridge above where his skirmish with CBP agents took place. It has not been released, but his family hopes that the release of supplemental footage will send a message nationwide.
Four minutes of security camera footage from the San Ysidro Port of Entry released by the Southern Border Communities Coalition (SBCC) shows Hernandez-Rojas in CBP agent custody moments before his death.
The footage was released Thursday by the Southern Border Communities Coalition.
The SBCC says the video shows agents pushing Hernandez-Rojas against a wall, kicking his feet and denying him medical assistance when he requested it.
In 2015, the Justice Department decided not to file charges against the 12 CBP agents involved in the incident, despite the use of a taser on Hernandez-Rojas while he was handcuffed and on the ground in fetal position, according to Iredale.
My feeling is that its an embarrassment, Puga said. Its an embarrassment that this agency continues to have those 12 agents working. Those agents that killed my husband.
Pugas family attorney said that the quality of the video recorded on cell phones of the time is not that good, but you can hear Hernandez-Rojas plea for help and compassion.
[The witness video] is not really good video because the lighting conditions were such that you cant see that much, Attorney Eugene Iredale said. You can only hear the words of Anastasio Hernandez-Rojas saying over and over again, Ayudame, por favor. Ayudame. (Help me, please. Help me.) and then No me trates como un animal. (Dont treat me like an animal.)
Weve always known that they are guilty, and that they are the murderers of my husband, Puga said. We hope that with this phase we are able to strike them and expose how corrupt this agency has been for many years.
Pedro Rios, President of the U.S.-Mexico Border Program for the American Friends Service Committee, says the persistence from Puga and her family was not in vain.
Rios says that the CBPs Use of Force Manual has been made available to the public, which has never been the case in its 90 years of existence.
Rady Childrens Hospital-San Diego announced it has agreed to help manage the pediatric and neonatal intensive care units at Pioneers Memorial Hospital in Brawley.
Under a newly announced management services agreement, Rady Childrens will provide a medical director and a nursing leader to provide administrative services, such as program review and development, to Pioneers Memorial Healthcare District, which owns and operates the hospital.
Oversight of pediatric physicians serving both units will be handled by Rady Childrens Pediatric Medical Director Dr. Ameen Alshareef, who is on the medical staff of both hospitals. Nurse Tammie Miyagawa was selected to provide day-to-day operational leadership.
Rady said in a news release the hospital beds will remain under Pioneers license, and Rady Childrens will help implement best practices and protocols allowing patients to remain in the Imperial Valley. Rady Childrens will also help Pioneers achieve NICU certification by California Childrens Services, a state-run program.
Were looking forward to providing excellent health-care services to the children of the Imperial Valley, Dr. Gail Knight, Rady Childrens Hospitals senior vice president and chief medical officer, said in the release.
The two organizations have a pre-existing clinical partnership allowing Pioneers patients to receive care in San Diego, if necessary.
Pioneers Memorial Hospital is a 107-bed acute-care medical center. It is an affiliate of San Diego-based Scripps Health.
Rady Childrens offers an array of health-care services to children in San Diego, southern Orange, southern Riverside and Imperial counties.
Additional stories from the San Diego Business Journal are available here. Sign up for their free daily email newsletter.
San Diego Police (SDPD) are searching for a woman last seen near San Diego's iconic Sunset Cliffs region.
Amanda (Mandy) Cruse, 30, first arrived in San Diego on Feb. 18, 2017 from out of town.
On that Saturday, nearly two weeks ago, Cruse visited the Sunset Cliffs region on Point Loma, near Ocean Beach.
The following day, in the early morning hours of Feb. 19, Cruse may have went back to the Sunset Cliffs area, near Monaco Street.
Cruse was known to take photographs and may have been in the area to capture photos, police said.
SDPD Officer Billy Hernandez said authorities do not know the circumstances of how she went missing. There is no reason for police to think the report is false.
Cruse's family flew in from out-of-state and handed out fliers in the Sunset Cliffs area, according to SDPD Lt. Holden, but they have since left town.
Cruse, a Sri Lankan native, is described as 5 feet 3 inches tall, 115 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a grey sweatshirt, blue jeans and black white converse sneakers.
Any information on Cruse is asked to contact the San Diego Police Department at (619) 531-2000 or Detective Shelly Luna SDPD Missing Persons Unit (619) 531-2277.
For Immediate Release
Chicago, IL March 03, 2017 Zacks.com announces the list of stocks featured in the Analyst Blog. Every day the Zacks Equity Research analysts discuss the latest news and events impacting stocks and the financial markets. Stocks recently featured in the blog include Dynegy Inc.s (NYSE: DYN Free Report ), Arch Coal, Inc. (NYSE: ARCH Free Report ), CONSOL Energy Inc. (NYSE: CNX Free Report ), Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE Free Report ) and Pinnacle West Capital Corporation (NYSE: PNW Free Report ).
Today, Zacks is promoting its ''Buy'' stock recommendations. Get #1Stock of the Day pick for free .
Here are highlights from Thursdays Analyst Blog:
4 Stocks to Buy as Trump Prepares to Lift Coal Ban
Even as the stock market touches new all-time highs, signs are emerging that the Trump administration will soon move to overturn several environmental regulations. Most of them, such as the Clean Power Plan, are a legacy of the Trump era. Eliminating such restrictions would be in keeping with the President elects promises to revive the coal industry.
With coal prices surging immediately after the election, the optimism in the sector is more than palpable. Given the Presidents recent orders on the oil and gas sector, similar decisions on coal and conventional power should be expected soon. Investing in stocks poised to gain from these decisions may be a smart option at this point.
Repealing the Clean Power Plan
On the campaign trail, Trump promised to reverse Obamas clean energy proposals. The President incumbent had also promised to roll back the investment tax credit for solar power and the Environmental Protection Agencys Clean Power Plan.
The Clean Power Plan is the Obama administrations key environmental reform and mandates states to slash their carbon dioxide emissions. However, its actual implementation remains incomplete due to the legal obstacles put in its path by Republican dominated states.
Story continues
Experts believe that Trump will ask the EPA to request courts to return it the agency for a review. In one stroke, this will end any attempts to defend the plan legally. In Dec 2016, Dynegy Inc.s (NYSE: DYN Free Report ) CEO Robert Flexon had said that the removal of subsidies for alternative energy sources would provide a level playing field for conventional power producers.
Coal fired plants would stand to gain the most, though this may not result in fresh capacity additions. Instead, existing coal fired plants would then be in a position to snatch market share away from nuclear and natural gas based power producers.
Coal Prices Surge, Mining to Benefit
As a result, Flexon added, such a stance on power would be especially beneficial for the coal mining sector as well. The capacity factor for coal would rise and miners would have to step up production to meet the increased demand from power plants. In fact, compared to the elimination of the Clean Power Plan, it would be easier for Trump to remove the Obama administrations ban on coal mining. In Jan 2016, the previous government had placed a temporary ban on fresh federal coal leases in order to ensure that lease deals accounted for coals impact on climate change.
Naturally, such a step had been extremely unpopular among lawmakers from states in the West as well as the mining industry. But the situation has changed vastly ever since Trump won the election. Following his victory, coal was trading at $110 per metric ton (MT), nearly twice as much as its price in the first quarter of 2016. Despite a slight decline, coal was trading at $83.50 per MT on Feb. 28, 2017, which is still substantially higher.
Immediately after assuming office, Trump brought to an end several environment related regulations which hark back to the Obama era. This includes the Stream Protection Rule which placed limits on the dumping of waste generated from coal mining. Additionally, Trump has also repealed the Waters of the U.S. rule which had broadened the number of waterways eligible for federal protection.
Our Choices
The rally in coal prices and the optimism among producers of conventional energy is conclusive evidence that the Trump administration has infused new vigor into these sectors. Even skeptics have been forced to admit that a mood of cautious optimism now exists, a sharp contrast to the gloom that had set in over the Obama years.
This is why it makes sense to pick stocks poised to gain from the new administrations coal related actions. We have narrowed down our search to the following stocks based on a good Zacks Rank and other relevant metrics.
Arch Coal, Inc. (NYSE: ARCH Free Report ) is engaged in the mining, processing and marketing of low-sulfur bituminous coal.
Arch Coal has expected earnings growth of more than 100% for the current year. Its earnings estimate for the current year has improved by 50.7% over the last 30 days. The stock has returned 18122% over the last one year, easily outperforming the Zacks Coal sector, which has gained 129.1% over the same period. The stock has a Zacks Rank #1. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
CONSOL Energy Inc. (NYSE: CNX Free Report ) is a multi-fuel energy producer and an energy services provider, primarily catering to the U.S. power producers. The principal activities of its PA Mining Operations division are mining, preparation and marketing of thermal coal, sold primarily to power generators.
CONSOL Energy has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Its expected earnings growth for the current year is more than 100%. Its earnings estimate for the current year has improved by 96.4% over the last 30 days. The stock has returned 55.8% over the last one year, underperforming the Zacks Coal sector, which has gained 116.7% over the same period. This provides a good opportunity to buy the stock given that there is significant upside potential
Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE Free Report ) is a utility company, which generates and distributes electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, industrial and wholesale end markets in Missouri and Illinois. Ameren generates a considerable share of electricity from coal-fired facilities.
Ameren has a Zacks Rank #2. The company has expected earnings growth of 3.5% for the current year. Its earnings estimate for the current year has improved by 0.1% over the last 30 days. The stock has returned 16.5% over the last one year, outperforming the Zacks Utility - Electric Power sector, which has gained 4.9% over the same period.
Pinnacle West Capital Corporation (NYSE: PNW Free Report ) provides electricity services (wholesale or retail) in the state of Arizona through its subsidiaries. As of Sep 30, 2016 coal is projected to constitute 27% of the generation mix in 2017
Pinnacle West Capital has a Zacks Rank #2. The company has expected earnings growth of 7.6% for the current year. The stock has returned 20.3% over the last one year, outperforming the Zacks Utility - Electric Power sector, which has gained 4.9% over the same period.
Zacks' Top 10 Stocks for 2017
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Continuous coverage is provided for a universe of 1,150 publicly traded stocks. Our analysts are organized by industry which gives them keen insights to developments that affect company profits and stock performance. Recommendations and target prices are six-month time horizons.
Strong Stocks that Should Be in the News
Many are little publicized and fly under the Wall Street radar. They're virtually unknown to the general public. Yet today's 220 Zacks Rank #1 "Strong Buys" were generated by the stock-picking system that has nearly tripled the market from 1988 through 2015. Its average gain has been a stellar +26% per year. See these high-potential stocks free >>.
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Disneys first gay kissing scene aired during an episode of "Star vs. Forces of Evil" earlier this week.
At a concert, the main character, Star, and her friend were surrounded by couples who were kissing, including two men and two women.
Reaction to the scene was largely positive. However, Disney is getting backlash for a separate attempt to show characters exploring their sexuality.
Bill Condon, director of the live remake of "Beauty and the Beast" said that LeFou, played by Josh Gad, would be confused by his sexuality in the new movie, USA Today reported. While he said he doesnt want to give away what happens, he called it "a nice, exclusively gay moment in a Disney movie."
Despite some positive reaction, though, a #BoycottDisney movement began on Twitter in response to the directors statement.
Two 17-year-olds died and an 18-year-old suffered serious injuries when a car slammed into a pole in Waldorf, Maryland, Friday afternoon.
The force of the crash split the car in two and sent part of the car across the intersection of Smallwood Drive and St. Nicholas Drive near the St. Charles Town Center. Colin C. Bipat, 17, and Desmond L. Cooke, 17, died at the scene. The two were seniors at Westlake High School.
The car was traveling east on Smallwood and approached stopped traffic about 12:40 p.m. Witnesses said it was driven at high speed.
"The speed was so super fast," witness Sudhir Manocha said. "My truck shook. I drive a big truck, and it shook. And I said, 'Why? What's wrong with this kid? Why is he driving so fast?'
"So next thing I see, he reaches this traffic light, and there was a car in front of him, so what I'm guessing is, to avoid hitting the car, he must have turned to his left, lost control and hit that pole," Manocha said. "That all happened in front of my eyes."
"They had two individuals deceased inside the car, Maj. Chris Becker of the Charles County Sheriffs Office said. There was a third individual located also with life-threatening injuries."
That person, Caleb F. Marshall, 18, was flown to a hospital. Marshall is also a student at Westlake High School.
"The two young men that lost their lives today are really good young men known throughout the school and a good circle of friends and, you know, always smiling gentlemen, you know, happy," said Westlake High School Principal Michael Meiser.
Meiser said the students were just three months away from graduating.
"It's really a gut shot to the families and to the school, the community, the teachers, the staff," Meiser said.
Police have not said what caused the crash.
Police have identified a teenager who was shot at an apartment complex in Oxon Hill, Maryland, as 17-year-old Jayquan Holloway.
Holloway lived on Southview Drive in Oxon Hill, Prince George's County Police said.
He was shot Thursday afternoon in the 1400 block of Iverson Street, not far from Potomac High School, where he was a junior.
Police responded to the scene about 2:50 p.m. and found Holloway outside an apartment building, suffering from gunshot wounds. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later, police said.
Detectives are searching for a suspect who may have been driving a light-colored SUV, authorities said. They are working to identify a motive in the killing.
"We know that there must have been somebody who saw something. We're still trying to track those people down," Prince George's County Police Lt. David Coleman said Thursday.
One resident who lives nearby told News4 they heard two to three gunshots.
Prince George's County Public Schools released the following statement Thursday:
"The Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) community is deeply saddened by the shooting that took the life of an 11th-grader at Potomac High School in Oxon Hill. We extend our deepest sympathies to his loved ones. Counselors will be at Potomac starting tomorrow [Friday] to support students and staff as long as needed. There will also be additional security staff and law enforcement officers on and around campus.
"We will continue working with county officials and community members to provide safe schools and neighborhoods throughout Prince George's County. It is our hope that those responsible for this tragic death will be quickly brought to justice."
Authorities are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in the case.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 301-772-4925. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 866-411-TIPS (8477), text "PGPD" plus a message to CRIMES (274637), or submit a tip online at www.pgcrimesolvers.com.
On a day of celebrations for Howard University's 150th anniversary, students voiced their concerns over the school president's relationship with the Trump administration.
President Wayne Frederick, along with presidents of historically black colleges throughout the country, met with President Trump on Monday. Hours later, someone spray painted Welcome to Trump's Plantation. Overseer Wayne A.I. Frederick on a campus pathway.
"It's a very hostile environment right now," said student Jada Watts.
Some students were also opposed to Frederick recently meeting with Education Secretary Betsy DeVos.
During the school's Charter Day convocation, a ceremony usually filled with celebration, there was tension as students protested Frederick's meetings with the Trump administration.
Some said they feel blindsided and are calling for Frederick to be more transparent.
"I just feel like he needs to communicate with us better considering we are the students attending this university," Watts said.
Others disagreed with the protests.
"Disappointing that student chose to do that during this occasion and... I would charge students to do some research and explore the unique relationship that Howard has with the federal government," said Pierre Whatley, an alumnus of the university.
Gregory Carr, the chairman of the Department of African American Studies said student protests embody the spirit of Howard University.
"So what the students are doing today is in a long tradition of student protests and no, it isn't always comfortable and yes, sometimes there's overreach," Carr said.
The university said Frederick is listening to students and has met with every student organization that has requested to sit down with him. Frederick will continue to update students about campus business through emails, the university said.
A man broke into a military career center in Maryland and stole a car and a United States Army uniform, authorities say.
The theft happened at the U.S. Army Career Center in the 5400 block of St. Barnabas Road in Oxon Hill, Prince George's County police said. The department and the FBI's Baltimore Field Office are searching for the man they say stole a black, government-owned 2015 Hyundai Elantra, a dress uniform and other uniform items from the center shortly before 4 a.m. Thursday.
The car has government tags #G137282N, police said.
Police believe the suspect could be armed and may be headed to Fairfax County.
Anyone who sees a car matching the description should call 911, police said. Anyone with more information should call detectives at (301) 772-4401.
Firefighters found a man's body in the rubble of a massive house fire in Rockville, Maryland.
Larry Pagliai, 71, lived in the neighborhood for more than three decades, neighbors said.
"A sweet and gentle man," his brother-in-law Peter McGarry said. "A very private man, easy to talk to. People liked him."
Firefighters were called to his home at 16100 Willow Lane about 10:15 p.m. Thursday. When they arrived, the two-story home was fully engulfed in flames. The fire was so immense firefighters could not enter until it was extinguished.
"It did take about 15-20 minutes to knock down the bulk of the fire, but in that process there was a collapse," Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service spokesman Pete Piringer said.
Once they extinguished the fire, only the home's brick chimneys were left standing.
"It's very likely the fire burned for a while before it was noticed," Piringer said. "In this particular case, there's good indication that the fire had been burning for a while before it was noticed by the neighbors across the street."
Pagliai, a CPA, lived alone in the house, Piringer said. He was a father of two daughters and a proud grandfather, McGarry said.
"We called his office this morning," McGarry said. "Secretary said, yeah, he hadn't shown up yet."
So family members rushed to his house and learned the worst had happened.
"Distraught," McGarry said. "This is horrible, you know."
Neighbors said they heard a loud bang Thursday night and then they heard a crackling. They looked out their window and saw the house engulfed.
"I saw the fire and it was really engulfed, the second floor, everything," neighbor Juanita Hayden said.
She called 911.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, but no criminal activity is suspected.
"I feel bad," Hayden said. "You don't want anything like that to happen. You don't want to see anybody die."
Fairfax County police have found the remains of two people in a Fairfax County park, and investigators believe the deaths are "more than likely" gang-related.
Police started searching Holmes Run Park Wednesday after receiving a tip. Thursday, they said they had found "evidence" in a deeply wooded part of the park.
Police Chief Ed Roessler said both bodies were buried about 300 yards into the park.
Roessler believes the deaths may be gang-related, as gang members have used the park in the past for crimes. In 2014, the bodies of two men were found in the park. The gang members who committed those crimes were convicted last year.
"It's more than likely that the recovery of these bodies will be linked to another set of gang murders," Roessler said during a news conference Friday.
In recent months, there has been an increase in gang violence across northern Virginia and the rest of the D.C. region. Police say there are efforts underway to try and crackdown on the violence and it goes beyond just making arrests. News4s David Culver reports.
"This problem is horrible. This is four murders in this park. Obviously, we've had other murders in the region in the past few weeks. This is getting out of control and we need to stop it," Roessler said.
Investigators also began searching another park in Fairfax County since Wednesday. Late that day, police reported that they had completed the search in Lemon Road Park without finding anything.
"This event is tragic, and we want the community members of Fairfax County to know that we won't rest until the perpetrators of this crime are brought to justice," said Lt. Brian Gaydos, a spokesman for the Fairfax County Police Department.
Recently, police in northern Virginia found the bodies of two other people they believe were killed in gang-related attacks.
The first victim was Christian Sosa Rivas, who was killed in Prince William County in January. A search warrant filed in court revealed Sosa Rivas had styled himself as a leader of a local clique of the gang MS-13 -- a claim that didn't sit well with other gang leaders.
Fairfax County police have found the remains of two people in a Fairfax County park, and investigators believe the deaths are "more than likely" gang-related.
Police believe Sosa Rivas was lured away from his normal surrounding and murdered.
Police then tied his death to the murder of 15-year-old Alexandra Reyes. Investigators working on Sosa Rivas' case found Reyes' body last month near Lake Accotink in Springfield; she had been missing for two months.
A total of 10 suspects have been charged in connection with the girl's abduction and death. The majority of the suspects are juveniles. Police believe everyone involved is acquainted or affiliated with one gang, Gaydos said.
Reyes' family members identified that gang as MS-13.
Police have not said whether their search is connected to the murders of Rivas and Reyes.
Fairfax County police resumed their search for human remains in Holmes Run park early Thursday, a search they began after receiving a tip.
The discovery of more bodies has heightened concern over other missing teens in the area, including 14-year-old Sergio Arita Triminio and 17-year-old Edvin Escobar Mendez. Sergio and Edvin haven't been seen since last fall.
"We see nationwide hot spots across the nation. This happens to be a current hot spot and we're going to address it," said Tim Slater, with the FBI.
Residents who live near Holmes Run Park were concerned.
"It's just upsetting. I mean, you don't wake up everyday thinking, 'Oh, did anyone die behind my house?' and to know that it's potentially gang related, that's pretty scary as well," said resident Marita Elsts.
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Lessons about sexual consent may be added to the high school sexual education curriculum in Virginia.
A bill passed last month by the Virginia General Assembly requires the addition of "age-appropriate" information on consent to the Family Life Education curriculum taught in high schools. Students would be taught how to determine if someone is giving permission to engage in sex.
If young people don't get any lessons on consent until they go to college, it's too late, said Fairfax County Del. Eileen Filler-Corn, who introduced the legislation.
If the first time our students are hearing about whats appropriate is at college orientation, then weve really missed the boat, and its too late," she said.
She said House Bill 2257 is aimed at stopping sexual violence.
This is an issue that has been very important to me as a mom, not just as a legislator, for years and years," she said in an interview.
A coordinator in Fairfax County schools' health, family life and physical education department said explaining consent to students is a must.
The CDC put out information a couple of years ago when we started this conversation in our community about implementing this, that 1in 6 boys and 1 in 4 girls are sexually assaulted by the age of 18," Liz Payne said.
Lessons about consent would be introduced statewide in the context of discussion of healthy and unhealthy relationships.
Filler-Corn's bill on teaching students about healthy relationships passed last year and is now law.
In 2015, California became the first state in the country to require that school districts add information on sexual consent to their health lessons.
In Fairfax County, discussion of consent begins in 10th grade. By the time students are in 12th grade, government teachers take over the subject and educate students about legal ramifications.
Filler-Corn responded to the idea that discussions of sex are best done at home, not in the classroom. She agreed.
Yeah that makes a lot of sense, but theyre not all learning that at home," she said.
Gov. Terry McAuliffe is expected to sign the bill into law.
Families and entire jurisdictions in the state would be able to opt out of the lessons. In Fairfax County, parents already have that option.
A Virginia woman can thank a loud fire alarm and her own quick thinking for ending an attack at her apartment complex early Thursday morning.
Just before 1 a.m., a man approached a 29-year-old woman getting out of her car at the Stoney Ridge Apartments complex on Westminster Lane in Woodbridge, police said.
The man exposed himself and made an obscene gesture, police said. When the woman tried to run to her apartment, the man inappropriately touched her and tried to stop her from going into her apartment.
She briefly struggled with the man until she was able to pull a fire alarm. A neighbor heard the alarm, went outside and chased away the man, police said.
Police used K9 to search for the man but did not find him.
No injuries were reported.
Massachusetts' Republican governor is pledging funds to Planned Parenthood in the event federal lawmakers defund the organization.
A spokesperson for Gov. Charlie Baker confirmed the support, which was originally reported by The Boston Globe Friday.
"Governor Baker is a strong supporter of women's health and believes the Commonwealth has a responsibility to ensure access to the important health care services offered by Planned Parenthood in all corners of our state, and the administration is prepared to fund these services should the federal government pursue changes that would block care for women and families here in Massachusetts," Baker's communications director, Lizzy Guyton, said.
As Republicans in Congress continue to hammer out health care reform proposals, some drafts have included language that would strip Planned Parenthood of Medicaid funds, which would affect the organization providing testing and treatment for STIs, cancer screenings and contraception for low-income women. Medicaid funds do not currently fund abortion services.
In a statement, Planned Parenthood's Massachusetts CEO, Dr. Jennifer Childs-Roshak, applauded Gov. Baker's announcement, but lamented that no governor should have to "mitigate attacks on women in his or her state made by Congress."
"At a time when extreme politicians in Congress want to block millions of people from accessing essential preventive care at Planned Parenthood health centers, it is reassuring to see Governor Baker put the health and wellbeing of our communities ahead of poltics," she said.
The Globe reports the Bay State's five Planned Parenthood clinics would lose up to $2 million a year from its budget of $21.5 million in the event the organization's federal funds are cut.
A Massachusetts woman battling cancer was looking for the "angel" she says saved her life on the side of a highway. But she found two of them.
Kate LaBelle of Leominster shared her story with NBC Boston Wednesday, explaining how an unidentified nurse saved her life.
She had been driving on Route 2 on May 27, 2016, when she began to lose consciousness on her way to a doctor's office to get a CT scan. She realized she needed to pull over.
She was taking the Devens exit when her head went down and her car hit the guardrail. The next thing she remembers is waking up to a nurse who comforted her until an ambulance arrived.
"It was terrifying just not knowing what was happening because I had no idea how sick I was," LaBelle said.
At the hospital, LaBelle was diagnosed with stage 4 angiosarcoma, a rare cancer of the blood vessels. It was causing her heart to fill up with fluid, putting so much pressure on it, doctors only had minutes to perform the emergency procedure that saved her.
"If it wasn't for that woman stopping, I probably wouldn't be here talking to you right now," LaBelle said.
LaBelle took to social media to try to find her Route 2 angel. After NBC Boston told her story, not one, but two, good Samaritans reached out the nurse LaBelle remembers and a man who stopped to help, called 911 and took a picture at the scene.
Both "angels" sent well wishes.
"I honestly feel that I did what certainly any nurse would have done, and what most people in that situation would have done. I was helping someone who was in need," the nurse, who does not want to be identified, said in a written statement to NBC Boston. "Late last night, Katie and I were able to chat on the phone for the first time, and I learned of the tough road she has been on since that day in May. She has clearly been through a tough time this past year with her unexpected cancer diagnosis and treatment but her beautiful spirit was so obvious to me while I was talking to her."
The nurse explained that she is looking forward to meeting LaBelle and her parents, and she asked people to help support her GoFundMe, closing by writing "#KatieStrong."
A Leominster, Massachusetts, woman battling stage four cancer is trying to find the good Samaritan she credits with saving her life not in a hospital, but on the side of the highway last year.
"I'd like to think anyone would stop, but I know that's not always the case." her father, David LaBelle, said Wednesday. "She went above and beyond."
A teenager is in stable condition after driving over an embankment and landing on a Massachusetts beach Thursday, police say.
The crash happened after police tried to stop the car, which they say was speeding from the Causeway onto Nahant Road around 5 p.m. Police ended the pursuit due to safety concerns.
When police searched the area, an officer noticed a missing section of guardrail above Forty Steps Beach before seeing the car flipped over on the beach.
Police and fire crews removed the 19-year-old from the car. He was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he is listed in stable condition.
A married couple in Vermonts Addison County is turning to the community for help in finding a medical miracle.
Lee Sauerwald of Ripton is pleading with the public for a kidney for his wife, Grace.
I love my wife like crazy, so I would do anything for her, Lee Sauerwald told necn Friday.
Sauerwald put magnets on the back of the vehicles for his carpet cleaning business, urging potential donors to contact the University of Vermont Medical Center or the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
He also hung a sign in the window of a building his business shares with a gas station on Route 7 in Middlebury. The sign asks for a potential kidney donor to "share your spare" and tells people such a gift could save a life.
My husband is awesome, beamed Grace Sauerwald, who has a condition that causes cysts to grow on kidneys.
With no kidney function left, Grace now sits through 20 hours of home dialysis a week, she said.
She added that she has been praying for a miracle for five years.
I am a Christian; I believe in God, Grace Sauerwald said. My faith is very strong, and I know He's not going to let me down.
The kidney patient said she thought she could get a donation from a deceased donor, but her doctors told her an elevated count of antibodies in her system meant a living donor may be a better match.
Thats when the idea was born to put signs on the vehicles and in the window of the business.
Its the ultimate gift, Grace Sauerwald said of organ donation. It's the gift of life!
Her devoted husband was set to give that gift himself, Lee Sauerwald explained, until an unexpected twist.
In my attempt to donate, they found out I had cancer, he said. And they managed to get rid of it. But I have to wait five years before I'm even considered again.
That pancreatic cancer discovery now has Lee convinced that Grace saved his life.
Lee Sauerwald said he will continue aiming to extend his wifes life by spreading the word about organ donation through the signs on his vehicles and business.
There are so many people who need kidneys, Grace Sauerwald said. Whether someone comes forward for me, or you can help someone else. There are so many!
On their window sign and vehicle magnets, the couple urges anyone interested in seeing if theyre a live donor match to contact the University of Vermont Medical Center at 877-467-5102 or the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center at 603-653-3931.
Stamford police have arrested a Guatemalan man in the country illegally who is accused of sexually assaulting a toddler, according to police.
According to police, Douglas Hus-Flores, 19, was arrested and charged with first-degree sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor.
The investigation began when the toddler was taken to Stamford Hospital after complaining of pain to her mother. The child was bleeding and had unspecified injuries.
Police said that doctors determined the injuries were likely caused by sexual assault. The child was taken to Yale-New Haven Hospital for further treatment.
An immigration detainer was placed on Hus-Flores and he is being held on a $250,000 bond. He was arraigned Thursday and is next scheduled to appear in court on April 4.
A Haverhill, Massachusetts, woman was arrested for resisting arrest and assaulting a Hooksett, New Hampshire, police officer.
According to Hooksett police, an officer noticed a woman sitting in a vehicle late Thursday night at the closed Community Plaza located at 1100 Hooksett Road.
The woman was identified as Nicole Blackwell, age 43, from Haverhill, and officers learned there was an Electronic Bench warrant out for Blackwell's arrest after she failed to appear in court.
Officers informed Blackwell of the outstanding warrant but she refused to exit her vehicle.
During attempts to remove the woman from the car, she began kicking one of the officers several times in the head and shoulder.
The officer did not sustain any injuries.
Eventually officers were able to get Blackwell under control and place her in handcuffs.
She was charged with resisting arrest of detention and simple assault.
Blackwell was released on her own recognizance.
She is scheduled to appear in the 6th Circuit Court in Hooksett on April 12.
Hillary Clinton visited Harvard University Friday to talk about her time as secretary of state, according to the Harvard Crimson.
The former Democratic presidential candidate participated in an interview as part of the American Secretaries of State Project, a join venture of the Kennedy School, Law School and Business School.
Clinton also took part in a "Fireside Chat" with students from Harvards Institute of Politics.
Launched in 2012, the American Secretaries of State Project hopes to interview all living former U.S. secretaries of state about their experiences conducting international negotiations while in office, the Crimson reported.
Clinton served as secretary of state under former President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2013.
It was Clinton's second speaking engagement at an instituation of higher education in less than 24 hours. She also stopped by Wellesley University, her alma mater, in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Thursday night.
Ashley Funk, who graduated from Wellesley College in 2016, told NBC News that Clinton reminisced of her time at the school and spoke "extensively" about the value of working in public service.
Funk said Clinton "encouraged us to stay resilient, stubborn, and grateful throughout our careers."
"One of my favorite quotes was 'Do not underestimate the value of stubbornness,'" she said.
Jurors in the double-murder trial of ex-NFL star Aaron Hernandez ventured to several sites related to the 2012 slayings.
On Friday, the panel of 15 people spent about two hours at the Cure Lounge in Boston, Massachusetts, where prosecutors say one of the victims bumped into the former Patriots tight end, spilling his drink.
The jury also stopped at the Tufts parking garage, where the victims were seen in surveillance video leaving in a BMW. They were also taken to the site of the shooting scene and a Boston Police Department evidence facility where they were shown the Toyota 4Runner Hernandez and his former friend, Alexander Bradley, were allegedly in when the shooting occurred.
By Friday afternoon, jurors had returned to the court room to hear testimony from a Cure Lounge manager and review security footage of Hernandez's interaction with his alleged victims, Safiro Furtado and Daniel de Abreu.
Hernandez's lawyer said during opening statements that Bradley is the real killer. Bradley is expected to be the prosecution's star witness against Hernandez.
On Thursday, the jurors were shown photos of a silver SUV with Rhode Island plates at a parking garage near the club, the site of the 2012 murders.
Hernandez is accused of gunning down Furtado and de Abreu from the SUV.
After a year-long outside investigation, the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire is revealing that five more former faculty members are accused of having inappropriate sexual relationships with students on campus.
That brings the total up to nine former employees.
One alleged victim tells NBC Boston that he believed this investigation has only scratched the surface.
I wasnt surprised. Disappointed maybe, but not surprised, said Lawrence Jenkens over the phone on Friday.
Last year, Jenkens became one of the first Phillips Exeter Academy graduates to come forward, claiming he was sexually abused by a school leader.
Since then, an international law firm has been conducting an outside investigation, the results reveal the names of five more faculty members accused of sexual misconduct.
Thats absolutely horrible, said lifelong Exeter resident Thomas Clinton.
When any kind of news breaks like that, I think it rattles everyone, said another resident, Jessica Tiernan.
The investigation started last March after the school fired two teachers for admitting to having sexual relationships with their students.
The latest report uncovers credible allegations against four other former teachers and one former school psychologist.
When asked whether there could be more, Jenkens replied, I would be surprised if there werent more.
In a statement, the Board of Trustees President Nicie Panetta wrote, in part, The Academy will be a stronger and more compassionate institution as a result, and future students for generations to come will be the beneficiaries of hard-won lessons.
Community members hope they can now close the book on Exeters darkest chapter.
The sooner its over, the better, Tiernan said.
But Jenkens says this story is far from over.
I think we are probably at the beginning of a painful process rather than at the end of it, he said.
Police have charged Jenkens alleged abuser, Arthur Peekel, with sex assault.
PEA leaders tell NBC Boston all of the information in that outside investigation has been turned over to police.
Middletown police seized thousands of dollars worth of cocaine and made an arrest after a resident reported a suspicious package was delivered to her home.
According to an arraignment report, a resident arrived in the police departments lobby Thursday around 11:30 a.m. with a package she said had been delivered to her home by the United States Postal Service. The woman said the package was addressed to her and the return address was that of her deceased brother, so she became suspicious and opened the package.
When she opened it she found a black lockbox containing three rectangular parcels that looked like bricks of drugs.
Police seized the package and tested the bricks, which were determined to be cocaine. The total value of the cocaine was estimated to be between $111,000 and $120,000, police said.
The woman told police shes told her neighbor, identified as 27-year-old Jasmine Delgado, to use her address to have a package of childrens clothes delivered from Puerto Rico.
The complainant left and within minutes contacted police to let them know that Delgado had called asking if her package had been delivered.
Police met with Delgado, who claimed she had been waiting for a package of childrens clothes and had no idea it had cocaine in it.
Delgado was arrested and charged with criminal attempt to possess narcotics, and criminal attempt to possess narcotics with intent to sell.
She was held on a $500,000 bond and is expected to appear in court on Friday.
A second arrest as been made in a multi-agency investigation into three Glastonbury spas where prostitution is suspected, police said.
On Thursday, Funu Lian was extradited from the Queens County Courthouse in New York.
It was believed that Lian had fled to New York after police executed three search warrants on various spas in Glastonbury in January.
Lian was charged with promoting prostitution. She was picked up in New York for a parking violation in New York on Thursday.
Various agencies served search warrants on Jan. 26 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.
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.
Lian's bond was set at $50,000.
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 2020, an average internet user will use 1.5GB of traffic a day, and daily video traffic will reach 1PB, Intel predicts. A huge amount of data will be generated by autonomous vehicles, mobile devices, and internet-of-things devices.
Every day, more information is being collected and sent to faster servers in mega data centers, which analyze and make sense of it. That analysis has helped improved image and speech recognition and is making autonomous cars a reality.
Emerging superfast data networks like 5G -- a melting pot of wireless technologies -- will dispatch even more gathered information, which could stress data centers. Servers are already being redesigned to handle more data, and throughput technologies like Gen-Z and fiber optics will reduce latency.
At Mobile World Congress this week, computing on the edge was a big topic among infrastructure providers. Edge computing involves light processing on intermediary servers or on the edge of the networks. This type of computing can lead to faster responses for mobile services, without putting stress on servers in the core network.
Edge computing can also provide instant analytics to ensure the junk information is discarded and only useful information reaches servers on the core network. Edge computing is also emerging for virtualization, which slices loads of data in smaller packages rerouted to the right servers to be handled.
At MWC, many companies showed products and shared new ideas for computing on the edge. Most vendors had a common goal: to better control the flow and make better sense of data, especially with more data being collected by IoT devices.
Hewlett Packard Enterprise showed off its latest generation of IoT servers called Edgeline, similar to the company's Proliant servers but slimmed down. The servers sit on the edge and are able to analyze data before sending them to core servers in data centers. The servers can virtualize data packets on the edge, which then makes better use of computing resources.
For example, the Edgeline servers can handle mobile computing tasks, like responding to Facebook posts or search requests, on the edge. More intense data tasks, like image recognition, can be routed back to the centralized data center network, which handles machine learning tasks.
Nearby, Dell was showing off its Edge Gateway 3000 servers for multiple IoT applications. The servers can analyze data at the point of collection and dispatch them to the data center. These servers use Intel's latest Atom chips, which have up to 16 cores.
The Model 3001 is targeted toward industrial automation and energy management; the Model 3002 is aimed at transportation and logistics and fits into large vehicles like trucks; and the Model 3003 is designed for video streaming and point-of-sale applications.
The servers use new Xeon-D or Atom chips from Intel, which were shown by the chipmaker on the floor of the show. The chips are targeted at edge servers and networking gear. These chips are not as powerful as the Xeon E5 chips used in mainstream servers in data centers.
Ubuntu showed off some Open Compute Project network router designs with edge processing. The routers ran Ubuntu Snappy Core and can run software for edge processing. These routers are servers in their own right and reduce the load on high-end servers. Ubuntu "snaps" -- which are like apps -- can be tuned for specific edge processing tasks. More information about new edge router designs will be shared at Open Compute Project Summit next week.
Another interesting demo at the Ubuntu booth showed an ARM server doing edge processing for 5G networks. The ARM servers had 64-bit Cavium ThunderX2 chips that are already being used in networking gear but also could double up as low-power server chips for more powerful edge processing.
Powerful CPUs aren't needed for edge processing, but chips need to able to collate large datasets and ensure they are virtualized and redirected properly. ARM servers chips can virtualize data with the ARMv8 64-bit architecture, which has been adopted by chipmakers like Cavium.
Edge processing will be important for autonomous cars as well. The ultimate vision is that autonomous cars will be able to connect to superfast servers in the cloud to recognize images, draw up maps, and make better driving decisions. But those connections may not always be possible, which is where edge processing on the autonomous car will step in.
Intel and Qualcomm are providing unique circuitry for handling edge processing in autonomous vehicles. Intel is pushing FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays) into autonomous vehicles to handle specific tasks, while Qualcomm is relying on digital signal processors. FPGAs and other components are key components for autonomous cars and a flexible 5G infrastructure, said Venkata Renduchintala, president of the Intel Client and Internet of Things businesses and the Systems Architecture Group.
Edge processing is also becoming a priority for telecom providers, which are looking for ways to add flexibility to the services they provide to customers. For example, SK Telecom -- which is testing 5G rollouts in South Korea -- found edge processing valuable in virtualizing its data and radio networks.
On the campaign trail, candidate Donald Trump was so determined to present himself as the solution to H-1B visa abuse the kind that has American IT workers training their foreign replacements -- that he promised to launch an investigation of the program on day one of his administration. Not in due time, on day one.
Today is day 43. No investigation has been launched. No changes have been made to the H-1B program. And its not clear when or if any will be forthcoming.
That no one should be surprised does not mean no one has taken notice. From a Computerworld story:
Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill), a long-time critic of the H-1B visa program and co-sponsor of a reform bill with Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), accused Trump today of failing "to put American workers first by cracking down on H-1B visa abuse. "I am disappointed that you have broken your campaign promise to take action on the first day of your Administration to reform foreign guest worker visas - especially the H-1B visa - to put American workers first," Durbin wrote in a letter to Trump sent Friday.
Meanwhile, a new bill filed by a longtime H-1B critic carries the potential for nudging President Trump back onto the path advocated by candidate Trump. Again, from Computerworld:
Since 2005, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.) has been introducing H-1B reform legislation in the House and getting nowhere. But with the bill he introduced today, he might have struck gold. Pascrell calls his bill bipartisan, but that doesn't quite do it justice. The co-sponsors of this bill, called the H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act of 2017, are about as far apart politically as you can get.
But they are ultimately unlikely to prevail without the support and signature of President Trump.
And where the presidents true position stands on this matter is unclear. Trumps hotels and resorts depend upon visa programs to provide needed labor, a practice he has vigorously defended. The business community, particularly high-tech, argues the H-1B program is indispensable and that any limitations would hurt the U.S. economy.
At this point only one thing is certain: Trump is six weeks late and counting on delivering a key campaign promise.
Welcome regulars and passersby. Here are a few more recent buzzblog items. And, if youd like to receive Buzzblog via e-mail newsletter, heres where to sign up. You can follow me on Twitter here and on Google+ here.
"The victim had his arms raised to protect himself"
A 21-YEAR-OLD man made threats to kill another male while horrified afternoon shoppers at the Kennet Shopping centre looked on, a court heard.
Haydon Lucas, of Downside, East Ilsley, also shouted abuse before a security guard intervened on the afternoon of September 25.
Prosecutor Lesley Gilmore told Reading Magistrates Court last Thursday (February 23): Mr Lucas started hitting the other man shouting I will kill you.
At this point a security guard intervened and Mr Lucas ran off.
The security guard was still talking to the victim when Mr Lucas returned, shouting and kicking the victim.
At this time there were other members of the public around and witnesses say they saw him throw a punch at the man. The victim had his arms raised to protect himself.
Mr Lucas pleaded guilty to the section 4 public order offence.
The incident found Mr Lucas in breach of a 16-week suspended sentence imposed by the same court last year.
Adjourning the hearing to allow a pre-sentence report to be prepared, the district judge said: I have to think about custody but its the sort of thing I have to be very careful with considering his age.
Mr Lucas was released on conditional bail with the court ordering him not to visit the Kennet Shopping centre before the sentencing hearing today (Friday).
Twenty-four-year-old made "emotional calls" on mobile prior to fatal collision
A MAN has been jailed today for three years and eight months for killing another motorist in a collision on the A34 at East Ilsley.
Lewis Stratford, aged 24, admitted to using his mobile phone to make a series of "emotional phone calls" prior to and at the time of the collision on June 11 last year.
Stratford's Vauxhall Corsa collided into the central reservation and crossed onto the opposite carriageway colliding head-on with a BMW shortly before 10pm.
The driver of the BMW, 28-year-old Gavin Roberts, sustained life-threatening injuries and died in hospital four days after the incident.
Stratford, of Field Avenue, Oxford, pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and was sentenced at Reading Crown Court today (Friday).
Following the sentencing, senior investigating officer Sgt Beth Walton, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "This case tragically evidences that distractions whilst driving do have and will continue to have catastrophic consequences, unless there is a change in some driver's attitudes.
"A combination of speed, mobile phone distraction and emotions in this case led to the collision and loss of Gavin Roberts' life, a young man with everything to live for. His family and friends lives shattered by his loss.
"This collision was preventable and would never had happened if Lewis Stratford had made different choices that night.
"His life has been affected, his life changed forever and the impact of his prison sentence and driving disqualification will continue to affect his life following his release.
"I hope the sentence today, and a change in law to increase penalties which came into place this week, will further highlight how seriously these offences will be taken and should encourage motorists to think twice before speeding and picking up the phone.
"Whilst today's sentencing will never bring Gavin back, I hope it will allow his family and friends to have a sense of closure and enable them to continue through their grief at this difficult time.
"I would ask people to think, think about the consequences I've mentioned, if you speed, if you use your mobile phone whilst driving then stop doing it and encourage those that you know who also do it, to stop."
Chief Crown Prosecutor for Thames and Chiltern Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Adrian Foster, said mobile phone evidence determined that Stratford had been engaged on a phone call on his mobile phone immediately before, during and after the collision.
He added: "This is a tragic waste of Gavin's life, caused by inattention and distraction, and could have been avoided.
"Stratford answered 'no comment' in his police interview, but on Tuesday, 24 January 2017, at Reading Crown Court, due to the strength of evidence against him, and recognising that justice had caught up with him, he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.
"This case highlights the serious consequences of failing to be alert when driving. Holding a driving licence brings with it a high degree of responsibility that should always be at the forefront of every driver's mind. Mobile phones must not be used by drivers, under any circumstances, as they are a lethal distraction, which, as this case demonstrates, leads to untold misery.
"I hope that the conviction and today's sentence will in some way help the family and friends of Mr Roberts to come to terms with this tragic event. My thoughts are very much with them all at this time."
Following the fatal crash a petition was launched by Mr Roberts' partner Meg Williamson calling for the speed limit to be reduced from 70mph to 50mph on the dual carriageway.
The petition has so far gained more than 2,400 signatures.
In a statement Mr Roberts' father Geoff, said: "The last time I saw my son, Gavin, was three months before he died when we spent three days in Dublin together. I was on a trip to Ireland from our native Australia and he came to meet me. We had a good time. We always did. He was a great mate to me.
"He was a good mate to other people too. Gavin made friends easily, that's who he was. Every day he was in England he called friends and family in Australia, keeping in touch with everyone, seeing how they were.
"The last contact I had with him was the day before he died when I had booked a trip to Europe which included four days in London. I emailed him to ask what we could do together during that time. I never got a reply.
"I knew I would miss him when he told me he was moving from our home in Wollongong, to England to work as an electrical engineer. He started work in February 2016. He was on his way to work four months later when his car was hit by another car in a head-on crash.
"Friends in England called my older son, Nathan, to tell him about the collision and he told me. Hours later we were on a plane from Australia to see Gavin.
"Gavin's injuries were so bad that days later we had to make the decision to switch off the life support.
"Gavin's friends in England were wonderful to us and looked after us. Later in Australia we held Gavin's funeral. It was overwhelming how many people were there. Gavin wasn't a politician or a famous person but people liked him, they really liked him. Everyone wanted to pay their respects to him.
"He was a great guy, a delightful person. I am very proud that he was my son.
"At his funeral I found out that Gavin had made a pact with his brother to return to Australia after a couple of years in England so that in the future the two of them could bring up their kids together.
"My son died because the other driver was using his mobile phone."
Tony Petrarca refers to his first time on the air at WPRI after graduating from Lyndon State College as the scariest three-and-half minutes in his life.
Tony Petrarca refers to his first time on the air at WPRI after graduating from Lyndon State College as the scariest three-and-half minutes in his life.
March 17, 1987, Tony recalled. I just remember going a mile a minute. My mom called after the newscast [and said] You were hyperventilating. Slow down. But it got better from there.
Now, WPRI's chief meteorologist is celebrating 30 years at the Providence, Rhode Island station - a feat not often seen in the news broadcasting industry.
Tony is a native Rhode Islander, and grew up watching WPRI 12, and has lived there his entire life.
As a child, Tony would track snowstorms and hurricanes on his weather wall at home, and always dreamed of becoming a meteorologist. He thanks his parents for their love and support in helping him achieve his dream.
He is a graduate of Toll Gate High School in Warwick, and Lyndon State College in Lyndonville, Vermont, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in meteorology.
Tony is a member of the American Meteorological Society and holds the Societys highest standards for a television meteorologist with the A.M.S. Broadcast Seal Of Approval award. In 2012, he was inducted into the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Silver Circle in recognition of his 30 years as a meteorologist.
He has also been nominated 6 Times for the New England Emmy award for his work and was voted Most Accurate Meteorologist 10 times by Rhode Island Monthly Magazine annual readers poll, as well as numerous Civic awards. He has led the Pinpoint Weather team with Associated Press Awards for Best Weathercast in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 and 2012. One of Tonys career highlights was spending a winter weekend atop of Mt. Washington, N.H. which later turned into a half hour Emmy nominated weather documentary entitled On Top Of New England.
In the past 30 years, Tony has forecast everything Mother Nature has to offer here in New England including blizzards, multiple Noreasters, the Historic Floods of 2010, Tropical Storm Irene, Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the Blizzards of 2013, 2015, and the 1995-1996 winter, which brought more than 100 inches of snow, countless severe thunderstorms, and even the occasional tornado threat.
Tony never really left school. In the last 27 years, he has visited more than 600 elementary schools teaching children about weather. With his influence and guidance, some of these younger students decided to study weather in college.
Tonys motto is to give back to the community that he grew up in and he does just that. He has donated countless hours to various charitable organizations including the Tomorrow Fund, Meeting Street School, East Bay Coalition For The Homeless, Crossroads Homeless Shelter, The Fogarty Center, Hasbro Childrens Hospital and was a member of the Board of Directors for the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Tony is the co-host for the annual Meeting Street Telethon and former host of the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon. In 2015 he received the Sons Of Italy Service Award He also serves as a Eucharistic minister at Sacred Heart Church in West Warwick, RI.
You can read WPRI's article celebrating Tony's work anniversary, and view the story WPRI reporter Walt Buteau did on Tony below.
Congrats Tony!
By Reuters
BRUSSELS: EU nations reached a compromise on long-awaited reforms to the carbon emissions market on Tuesday, moving the European Union closer to adopting key rules to deliver on its pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris climate accord.
Eager to maintain its leadership on climate change diplomacy, EU environment ministers sought to bridge divisions over how to balance environmental ambitions with protection for energy-intensive industries in reforming the Emission Trading System (ETS).
The cap-and-trade permit system is the EU's flagship policy to meet its goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions from 11,000 energy-intensive industrial plants and power stations by 43 percent by 2030 when compared with levels in 2005.
But the market has suffered from an excess supply of permits since the financial crisis, which depressed prices.
Talks on reforms have dragged on for 18 months, with EU nations split over measures to strengthen prices, how not to impinge on competitiveness and how best to manage funds to help laggards modernise their economies.
"The negotiations have been going on all day; every country has had to compromise on something," Italian minister Gian Luca Galleti told colleagues after the vote, saying Rome was still unhappy with some aspects of the deal.
Poland's minister said he felt "cheated" by the deal, which 19 of the bloc's 28 nations supported. Nine nations voted against it.
An earlier draft of the compromise deal seen by Reuters called for measures to strengthen prices by doubling the rate at which the scheme's Market Stability Reserve (MSR) soaks up excess allowances and by cancelling surplus permits after 2024 held in the reserve above a ceiling of 650 million allowances.
However, the final deal, published on Thursday, calls for a yearly cancellation of allowances held in the reserve after 2024 above a threshold to be set by the number of allowances auctioned the previous year.
The deal also offers a cushion for industries worried about being short on allowances if a cap is triggered on overall allocations that slashes free allowances across the board, known as the cross-sectoral correction factor (CSCF).
Under the current ETS trading phase, which runs from 2013 to 2020, the majority of carbon permits are sold through government auctions, with most of the remainder given free to industry.
Tuesday's deal calls for an additional 2 percent of the permits due to be auctioned to instead be freely doled out to industry if the CSCF is triggered.
"We are very happy that the council really showed the ambition that we need if we are going to stick to the Paris target," Sweden's climate minister Isabella Lovin told Reuters after the vote.
"I think the world needs climate leadership right now."
Sweden, France and the Netherlands have led a push for measures to shore up permit prices, and reached a breakthrough at the start of talks when they won Germany's support.
Germany, Italy, Austria and Greece, meanwhile, have prioritised measures to ensure that regulation does not drive big industry abroad, such as the provision for a more flexible auction share.
Poorer, coal-reliant nations in Central and Eastern Europe are keen to get the most generous provisions possible to help modernise their economies.
A minimum of 16 member states is required to back the compromise deal, representing at least 65 percent of the total EU population.
EU nations need a common position before beginning talks with the European Parliament and the European Commission to finalise EU legislation on the reforms tabled by the Commission more than a year ago.
The European Parliament last week adopted draft reforms of the carbon market that will go to plenary vote later this month.
BRUSSELS: EU nations reached a compromise on long-awaited reforms to the carbon emissions market on Tuesday, moving the European Union closer to adopting key rules to deliver on its pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris climate accord. Eager to maintain its leadership on climate change diplomacy, EU environment ministers sought to bridge divisions over how to balance environmental ambitions with protection for energy-intensive industries in reforming the Emission Trading System (ETS). The cap-and-trade permit system is the EU's flagship policy to meet its goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions from 11,000 energy-intensive industrial plants and power stations by 43 percent by 2030 when compared with levels in 2005. But the market has suffered from an excess supply of permits since the financial crisis, which depressed prices. Talks on reforms have dragged on for 18 months, with EU nations split over measures to strengthen prices, how not to impinge on competitiveness and how best to manage funds to help laggards modernise their economies. "The negotiations have been going on all day; every country has had to compromise on something," Italian minister Gian Luca Galleti told colleagues after the vote, saying Rome was still unhappy with some aspects of the deal. Poland's minister said he felt "cheated" by the deal, which 19 of the bloc's 28 nations supported. Nine nations voted against it. An earlier draft of the compromise deal seen by Reuters called for measures to strengthen prices by doubling the rate at which the scheme's Market Stability Reserve (MSR) soaks up excess allowances and by cancelling surplus permits after 2024 held in the reserve above a ceiling of 650 million allowances. However, the final deal, published on Thursday, calls for a yearly cancellation of allowances held in the reserve after 2024 above a threshold to be set by the number of allowances auctioned the previous year. The deal also offers a cushion for industries worried about being short on allowances if a cap is triggered on overall allocations that slashes free allowances across the board, known as the cross-sectoral correction factor (CSCF). Under the current ETS trading phase, which runs from 2013 to 2020, the majority of carbon permits are sold through government auctions, with most of the remainder given free to industry. Tuesday's deal calls for an additional 2 percent of the permits due to be auctioned to instead be freely doled out to industry if the CSCF is triggered. "We are very happy that the council really showed the ambition that we need if we are going to stick to the Paris target," Sweden's climate minister Isabella Lovin told Reuters after the vote. "I think the world needs climate leadership right now." Sweden, France and the Netherlands have led a push for measures to shore up permit prices, and reached a breakthrough at the start of talks when they won Germany's support. Germany, Italy, Austria and Greece, meanwhile, have prioritised measures to ensure that regulation does not drive big industry abroad, such as the provision for a more flexible auction share. Poorer, coal-reliant nations in Central and Eastern Europe are keen to get the most generous provisions possible to help modernise their economies. A minimum of 16 member states is required to back the compromise deal, representing at least 65 percent of the total EU population. EU nations need a common position before beginning talks with the European Parliament and the European Commission to finalise EU legislation on the reforms tabled by the Commission more than a year ago. The European Parliament last week adopted draft reforms of the carbon market that will go to plenary vote later this month.
By Reuters
NEW DELHI: State-run gas company GAIL (India) Ltd has signed a time-swap deal with Swiss trader Gunvor to sell some of its U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG), sources said, as the Indian firm tries to ease the burden of its costly foreign LNG supplies.
It is the first time-swap agreement by GAIL, which is trying to juggle its LNG portfolio to cut costs for price-sensitive Indian customers after a sharp fall in Asian spot prices made its U.S. gas unattractive.
The deal equates to around 5 percent of India's 2015/16 LNG imports and will support a government push to promote use of the cleaner fuel in fertiliser and the power sector, even as India's local gas production is falling.
Under the agreement, Gunvor will supply 15 cargoes or about 0.8 million tonnes of LNG to GAIL on India's west cost between April and December this year in oil-linked prices on a delivered basis in India, two sources with knowledge of the deal said.
In return GAIL will sell 10 cargoes or about 0.6 million tonnes next year from Sabine Pass on the U.S. Gulf coast in 2018 at a premium to its pricing formula on a free-on-board (FOB) basis, they said.
The deal, priced at about a 12 percent slope to Brent, means GAIL could get gas from Gunvor at $6.50-$7.00 per million British thermal units (mBtu), the sources said, competitive with Asian spot prices and much cheaper than the cost of shipping its own U.S. gas to India.
"We are seeing spot deals (in India) for April deliveries getting finalised at slightly more than $6.50 (mBtu) so GAIL's deal with Gunvor is at very competitive rates," said an Asian LNG trader.
GAIL is saddled with long-term contracts to take expensive U.S. gas after embarking on a buying spree between 2011 and 2013 when the fuel was scarce and prices kept rising.
LNG booked by GAIL under a long-term deal with Cheniere Energy, which owns the Sabine Pass Liquefaction terminal, will cost 115 percent of Henry Hub prices plus a fixed cost of $3 per mBtu. At current prices, this equates to a cost of about $8.50 per mBtu on a delivered basis to India.
GAIL was not immediately available for comment. Gunvor declined to comment.
The Indian firm has a deal to buy 3.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG for 20 years from Cheniere Energy and has also booked capacity for another 2.3 mtpa at Dominion Energy's Cove Point liquefaction plant.
It has so far sold about 0.5 million tonnes of its LNG from the U.S. projects to Royal Dutch Shell, but has not been able to attract Indian customers despite repeated attempts.
"GAIL is in talks with more players to sell LNG from its U.S. portfolio," said one of the sources.
New Delhi wants to lift the share of cleaner-burning gas in its energy mix to 15 percent in the next three years from about 6.5 percent at present.
GAIL is also in talks with Russia's Gazprom to delay and renegotiate a 20-year gas purchase deal undercut by low spot prices.
NEW DELHI: State-run gas company GAIL (India) Ltd has signed a time-swap deal with Swiss trader Gunvor to sell some of its U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG), sources said, as the Indian firm tries to ease the burden of its costly foreign LNG supplies. It is the first time-swap agreement by GAIL, which is trying to juggle its LNG portfolio to cut costs for price-sensitive Indian customers after a sharp fall in Asian spot prices made its U.S. gas unattractive. The deal equates to around 5 percent of India's 2015/16 LNG imports and will support a government push to promote use of the cleaner fuel in fertiliser and the power sector, even as India's local gas production is falling. Under the agreement, Gunvor will supply 15 cargoes or about 0.8 million tonnes of LNG to GAIL on India's west cost between April and December this year in oil-linked prices on a delivered basis in India, two sources with knowledge of the deal said. In return GAIL will sell 10 cargoes or about 0.6 million tonnes next year from Sabine Pass on the U.S. Gulf coast in 2018 at a premium to its pricing formula on a free-on-board (FOB) basis, they said. The deal, priced at about a 12 percent slope to Brent, means GAIL could get gas from Gunvor at $6.50-$7.00 per million British thermal units (mBtu), the sources said, competitive with Asian spot prices and much cheaper than the cost of shipping its own U.S. gas to India. "We are seeing spot deals (in India) for April deliveries getting finalised at slightly more than $6.50 (mBtu) so GAIL's deal with Gunvor is at very competitive rates," said an Asian LNG trader. GAIL is saddled with long-term contracts to take expensive U.S. gas after embarking on a buying spree between 2011 and 2013 when the fuel was scarce and prices kept rising. LNG booked by GAIL under a long-term deal with Cheniere Energy, which owns the Sabine Pass Liquefaction terminal, will cost 115 percent of Henry Hub prices plus a fixed cost of $3 per mBtu. At current prices, this equates to a cost of about $8.50 per mBtu on a delivered basis to India. GAIL was not immediately available for comment. Gunvor declined to comment. The Indian firm has a deal to buy 3.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG for 20 years from Cheniere Energy and has also booked capacity for another 2.3 mtpa at Dominion Energy's Cove Point liquefaction plant. It has so far sold about 0.5 million tonnes of its LNG from the U.S. projects to Royal Dutch Shell, but has not been able to attract Indian customers despite repeated attempts. "GAIL is in talks with more players to sell LNG from its U.S. portfolio," said one of the sources. New Delhi wants to lift the share of cleaner-burning gas in its energy mix to 15 percent in the next three years from about 6.5 percent at present. GAIL is also in talks with Russia's Gazprom to delay and renegotiate a 20-year gas purchase deal undercut by low spot prices.
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: Japanese companies are keen to invest in Indias food processing sector especially in fruits, vegetables and spices, Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal said.
Badal, who is on a three-day visit to Tokyo leading a CII delegation, on Thursday met Japanese Agriculture Minister Ken Saito to discuss ways to improve bilateral trade between the two countries. She highlighted the opportunities that India offers in the food processing sector.
Badal also met top officials of Japanese food companies.
We had a positive interaction. The Japanese government and companies are keen to strengthen ties in the food processing sector. They are looking for more business opportunities in India, PTI quoted the minister as saying.
Japan, the fourth largest investor in India, is currently sourcing seafood from India. It is now keen to invest in the processing of fruits and vegetables as well as spices and make India a prospective base and export hub, she said.
One of the Japanese firm engaged in manufacturing of tomato paste wants to become a global leader and is looking at India for sourcing the commodity in huge quantity, she added. Badal met officials of companies including Marubeni Corporation, House foods Corporation, Japan Association of Refrigerated Warehouses.
NEW DELHI: Japanese companies are keen to invest in Indias food processing sector especially in fruits, vegetables and spices, Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal said. Badal, who is on a three-day visit to Tokyo leading a CII delegation, on Thursday met Japanese Agriculture Minister Ken Saito to discuss ways to improve bilateral trade between the two countries. She highlighted the opportunities that India offers in the food processing sector. Badal also met top officials of Japanese food companies. We had a positive interaction. The Japanese government and companies are keen to strengthen ties in the food processing sector. They are looking for more business opportunities in India, PTI quoted the minister as saying. Japan, the fourth largest investor in India, is currently sourcing seafood from India. It is now keen to invest in the processing of fruits and vegetables as well as spices and make India a prospective base and export hub, she said. One of the Japanese firm engaged in manufacturing of tomato paste wants to become a global leader and is looking at India for sourcing the commodity in huge quantity, she added. Badal met officials of companies including Marubeni Corporation, House foods Corporation, Japan Association of Refrigerated Warehouses.
By Express News Service
CHENNAI: Chinese e-commerce giant Alibabas Singapore wing Alibaba Singapore E-Commerce is leading a $200-million funding round in Paytm E-Commerce, the online marketplace arm of One97 Communications. This will mark the Chinese firms official entry into the Indian e-commerce market, with reports putting its stake after the investment at 62 per cent.
According to filings with the Registrar of Companies, Alibaba will invest Rs 1,182 crore ($177 million) in Paytms e-commerce arm.
The rest, $23 million, will be invested by venture capital firm SAIF Partners, an early investor in One97, the holding company for the de-merged Paytm online payments and e-commerce businesses.
With this, Alibabas stakeholding will increase from 40 per cent to 62 per cent in the e-commerce arm, NewsCorps VCCircle reported. While Alibaba has a stake in Indian e-commerce firm SnapDeal as well, sources say the stakeholding is between three and five per cent.
But, with 62 per cent in Paytm E-Commerce, Alibaba will finally have a majority stake in an Indian e-commerce firm.
Alibabas official entry into the e-commerce space will heat up the competition and force Indian e-commerce firms to look for funds more seriously. According to analysts, this will only increase the need for these firms to increase their focus on profit making.
Flipkart has been finding it hard to raise funds and while they are reportedly close to doing so, it is because they have begun to show more operational efficiency under new leadership. This will continue to be a pre-requisite if they, and other Indian players, are to raise more funds to compete, said an analyst who did not wish to be identified.
Aside from the entry of Alibaba formally into the Indian e-commerce market, the deal will also put Paytm E-Commerces valuation at more than $800 million. Paytm did not respond to queries regarding the development.
When contacted, a Paytm spokesperson declined to comment on the matter.
CHENNAI: Chinese e-commerce giant Alibabas Singapore wing Alibaba Singapore E-Commerce is leading a $200-million funding round in Paytm E-Commerce, the online marketplace arm of One97 Communications. This will mark the Chinese firms official entry into the Indian e-commerce market, with reports putting its stake after the investment at 62 per cent. According to filings with the Registrar of Companies, Alibaba will invest Rs 1,182 crore ($177 million) in Paytms e-commerce arm. The rest, $23 million, will be invested by venture capital firm SAIF Partners, an early investor in One97, the holding company for the de-merged Paytm online payments and e-commerce businesses. With this, Alibabas stakeholding will increase from 40 per cent to 62 per cent in the e-commerce arm, NewsCorps VCCircle reported. While Alibaba has a stake in Indian e-commerce firm SnapDeal as well, sources say the stakeholding is between three and five per cent. But, with 62 per cent in Paytm E-Commerce, Alibaba will finally have a majority stake in an Indian e-commerce firm. Alibabas official entry into the e-commerce space will heat up the competition and force Indian e-commerce firms to look for funds more seriously. According to analysts, this will only increase the need for these firms to increase their focus on profit making. Flipkart has been finding it hard to raise funds and while they are reportedly close to doing so, it is because they have begun to show more operational efficiency under new leadership. This will continue to be a pre-requisite if they, and other Indian players, are to raise more funds to compete, said an analyst who did not wish to be identified. Aside from the entry of Alibaba formally into the Indian e-commerce market, the deal will also put Paytm E-Commerces valuation at more than $800 million. Paytm did not respond to queries regarding the development. When contacted, a Paytm spokesperson declined to comment on the matter.
By Express News Service
HYDERABAD: Vinod Pavarala, a professor of the S N School of Communications at the University of Hyderabad, withdrew his participation from a conference scheduled to be held in San Diego considering the prevailing xenophobia in USA. The professor is also the UNESCO Chair on Community Media at UoH.
The 67th edition of the conference is scheduled to be held from May 25 to 29 by the International Communication Association (ICA). Prof Vinod Pavarala said that he was invited to speak at the special per-conference which focuses on 'India and media in India after 70 years of Independence'. He was also going to present a paper at the conference.
Here is his Facebook post:
"I informed the president of ICA that I am withdrawing. He accepted it graciously," Vinod said, adding that the decision was not taken out of fear for personal safety and that he felt comfortable when he stayed at campuses in USA.
HYDERABAD: Vinod Pavarala, a professor of the S N School of Communications at the University of Hyderabad, withdrew his participation from a conference scheduled to be held in San Diego considering the prevailing xenophobia in USA. The professor is also the UNESCO Chair on Community Media at UoH. The 67th edition of the conference is scheduled to be held from May 25 to 29 by the International Communication Association (ICA). Prof Vinod Pavarala said that he was invited to speak at the special per-conference which focuses on 'India and media in India after 70 years of Independence'. He was also going to present a paper at the conference. Here is his Facebook post: "I informed the president of ICA that I am withdrawing. He accepted it graciously," Vinod said, adding that the decision was not taken out of fear for personal safety and that he felt comfortable when he stayed at campuses in USA.
By ANI
NEW DELHI: Not long after Prakash Jha's Lipstick Under My Burkha was denied certification, the Central Board for Film Certification (CBFC) has found its latest victim in the Malayalam film Ka Bodyscapes' and FTII chairman Gajendra Chauhan justifies its move.
I would like to appreciate Censor Board and revising committee that they stopped the film from showing. I got to know that Lord Hanuman has been shown in a derogatory manner. I object, said the 60-year-old to ANI on the last day in his office.
According to Chauhan, films like Ka Bodyscapes shouldnt be allowed in India as nobody has the right to hurt a religion and its views.
He added, Court should also not allow it. What do they have to prove by making movies on freedom of expression and artistic values? Do they want to show the future generation their parents in bad light?
CBFC believes that Ka Bodyscapes glorifies gay and homosexual relationship, but seems like Chauhan is against the flick for not the same reason.
Make a movie on sexual orientation that can teach something, not hurt a religious belief. I condemn the movie, Chauhan continued.
The movie follows the lives of three young people in Calicut Haris, a gay painter; Vishnu, a rural kabaddi player and their friend Sia, an activist who refuse to conform to dominant norms of femininity, struggle to find space and happiness in a conservative Indian City.
Director Jayan Cherian posted the official letter from the CBFC on social media, adding, Its official, Mr. Pahlaj Nihalani (chairman of the CBFC) put the final nail in my coffin!
The letter, from the second revising committee, reads, "The second Revising Committee felt that the film is glorifying the subject of gay and homosexual relationship, nudity accentuating vital parts of male body (in paintings) in closed shots in the whole movie."
"The film is explicit of scene offending Hindu sensibilities depicting vulgarity and obscenity through the movie. The religion of 'Hindu' is portrayed in a derogatory manner especially Lord Hanuman (shown in a poor light as gay) which may cause law and order problem in the society."
"The film contains posters depicting homosexuality throughout the movie and derogatory remarks against women. Abusive language is used in most of the places and also a female Muslim character is shown masturbating. The film has references to Hindu organisations indirectly which is unwarranted."
NEW DELHI: Not long after Prakash Jha's Lipstick Under My Burkha was denied certification, the Central Board for Film Certification (CBFC) has found its latest victim in the Malayalam film Ka Bodyscapes' and FTII chairman Gajendra Chauhan justifies its move. I would like to appreciate Censor Board and revising committee that they stopped the film from showing. I got to know that Lord Hanuman has been shown in a derogatory manner. I object, said the 60-year-old to ANI on the last day in his office. According to Chauhan, films like Ka Bodyscapes shouldnt be allowed in India as nobody has the right to hurt a religion and its views. He added, Court should also not allow it. What do they have to prove by making movies on freedom of expression and artistic values? Do they want to show the future generation their parents in bad light? CBFC believes that Ka Bodyscapes glorifies gay and homosexual relationship, but seems like Chauhan is against the flick for not the same reason. Make a movie on sexual orientation that can teach something, not hurt a religious belief. I condemn the movie, Chauhan continued. The movie follows the lives of three young people in Calicut Haris, a gay painter; Vishnu, a rural kabaddi player and their friend Sia, an activist who refuse to conform to dominant norms of femininity, struggle to find space and happiness in a conservative Indian City. Director Jayan Cherian posted the official letter from the CBFC on social media, adding, Its official, Mr. Pahlaj Nihalani (chairman of the CBFC) put the final nail in my coffin! The letter, from the second revising committee, reads, "The second Revising Committee felt that the film is glorifying the subject of gay and homosexual relationship, nudity accentuating vital parts of male body (in paintings) in closed shots in the whole movie." "The film is explicit of scene offending Hindu sensibilities depicting vulgarity and obscenity through the movie. The religion of 'Hindu' is portrayed in a derogatory manner especially Lord Hanuman (shown in a poor light as gay) which may cause law and order problem in the society." "The film contains posters depicting homosexuality throughout the movie and derogatory remarks against women. Abusive language is used in most of the places and also a female Muslim character is shown masturbating. The film has references to Hindu organisations indirectly which is unwarranted."
Sudhir Srinivasan By
Express News Service
The date was January 12, 1995. I t was a week ahead of the international release of Before Sunrise, and director Richard Linklater had perhaps not made up his mind about writing its sequels. Meanwhile, something huge was set to be unleashed on Tamil cinema; something monumental that would elevate the status of a star to dizzying heights from which he would never descend.
It was two days before the Pongal festival, and as was the norm in Tamil cinema, many filmseight, including Baasha were set for release, including Kamal Haasans Sathi Leelavathi. While the other seven went on to get released on Sunday, January 15, Baasha secured an advance release, three days ahead of its competition.
Even in those days, you knew it wasnt wise to have your film released alongside a Rajinikanth-starrer.
Film historian G Dhananjayan remembers that the film wasnt advertised too aggressively. Posters were put up around the city, but the promotions werent as exhaustive as they are today. You didnt have social media then. Hell, you didnt even have internet then. VSNLs dial-up connection whose connecting sounds were immortalised by AR Rahman in the opening bit of Oh Maria from Kadhalar Dhinam was to be launched only months later in the same year.
Rajinikanths fan clubs, as many as they were even then, hadnt yet exploded out of calculable reach. It was three years since the release of Annamalai, and Rajinikanth had suffered the debacles of Uzhaippali and Valli. His previous collaboration with Suresh Krissna, Veera, had redeemed his reputation somewhat, despite its controversial climax. So, you werent quite sure about Baasha.
The title itself was a departure from usual Rajinikanth films, which were either generic summarizations of the protagonists character (Padikkadavan, Uzhaipali, Panakkaran, Mappillai), or relatable Hindu names of the protagonist (Annamalai, Pandiyan, Veera). You didnt really know what to expect from Baasha, and if you were a Rajini fan, as I was as an 11-year-old, you were rather nervous.
You knew you didnt want another Valli. You drew hope from the success of the songs before the films release. You stuck your pencil into the audio cassette and rewound Naan Autokaaran over and over. You went back to school after the half-yearly holidays and drummed the songs beat on benches in between classes. You were the class hero if you could sing all the lines right.
Sometimes, you got them mixed up, and your friend would say, No! Its nallavanga kootukaaran. And then, kambedutha vettakaaran. You didnt get to watch such sought-after films on the first day; not easily anyway. Today, you have people using the hashtag FDFS for films, and you want to smirk considering that the most they likely did to buy their tickets was to stay awake till midnight and open half-a-dozen tabs at once in different browsers.
Back then, it was a lot like that famous theatre scene in Mannan, which released three years before Baasha. You didnt threaten people with razor blades, of course, but you may as well have, considering the jostling you had to endure. You had to endure a sleepless night. You had to endure standing in a queue that was always hopelessly long. And then, after hours of waiting, you likely had to endure being told that the tickets were sold out just as you dragged your hurting feet to the counter.
You then likely had to resort to buying the tickets in black and had to pay an exorbitant price (Rs 200) for the balcony ticket (Rs 30). The excess of then is the norm of today. Despite being a huge admirer of the actor, I couldnt convince my family to get tickets for the first show. We caught an evening show on the first day at the-then theatre of dreams Devi.
Those of us who remember the magic of cinema as watched in that unending screen of Devi can never truly dismiss the theatre. Dhananjayan caught the film in Devi too. There were hardly five or six top theatres you got to choose from, including Maharani and Alankar.
Sathyam Cinemas then had three single screens, Sathyam, Santham, and Subham. The complex itself was one of several less-glamorous options. You didnt know then that it would become what it has today. You didnt know then that it would introduce popcorn and make it taste like dreams. There were other things you didnt know.
As Rajinikanth breaks into dance for the opening song after saluting the audience, you didnt know then that one of the background dancersif you could see him amid the flying confetti, amid the mob running towards the screen so they could join the Superstar in dance, amid the utter chaos following Rajinikanths introductionwas a man called Kalyan, who would go on to become a respected dance choreographer in Tamil cinema.
You didnt know that the film you were watching would become the biggest hit of its directors career; that the directors career would then begin to slowly fade. You definitely didnt know that this film would catapult its actors popularity to levels that had previously been thought unachievable. As Dhananjayan says, His statements acquired the power to decide the fate of governments.
On the night of its release, as I happily slept with the reaffirmation that Rajinikanth indeed was the greatest actor in the galaxy, a get-together was taking place on the terrace of veteran producer SP Muthuramans house.
Actor Mohan Raman remembers the night as if it were yesterday: I was privileged to be part of the gathering. Not everybody got to meet the Superstar on the day of his films release. The man himself joined the get-together at 11.30 pm. I distinctly recall him being utterly thrilled that the film was doing so well.
For months after the release, Baasha was all you discussed. If you wanted to watch a film, you went and saw Baasha again. You watched it till you could run the film in your head during classes, scene by scene, dialogue by dialogue. Only two months later did Mani Ratnams Bombay come in to share the spotlight. By then, Baasha had become to Rajini what Thirumalai is to Vijay, and Billa is to Ajith, says Dhananjayan. Something unexpected, something magical had happened in Baashha.
Neither Suresh Krissna nor Rajinikanth could ever put their finger on it. And thats why while lesser films have had sequels being made, Baasha hasnt. It likely will not ever. And now, after 22 years, its not Baashas sequel releasing, but Baasha itself.Abirami Ramanathan, owner of Abirami Mega Mall, thinks that the timing is all wrong.
Exams will stop families from thronging the theatres, he says. And yet, seeing as how the opening days tickets are all sold out, it seems that the film has survived the test of time. For those of us who knew what the world was like when the film originally released, its pure magic that we are now booking tickets for Baasha using devices that hadnt even been invented when it first released.
The date was January 12, 1995. I t was a week ahead of the international release of Before Sunrise, and director Richard Linklater had perhaps not made up his mind about writing its sequels. Meanwhile, something huge was set to be unleashed on Tamil cinema; something monumental that would elevate the status of a star to dizzying heights from which he would never descend. It was two days before the Pongal festival, and as was the norm in Tamil cinema, many filmseight, including Baasha were set for release, including Kamal Haasans Sathi Leelavathi. While the other seven went on to get released on Sunday, January 15, Baasha secured an advance release, three days ahead of its competition. Even in those days, you knew it wasnt wise to have your film released alongside a Rajinikanth-starrer. Film historian G Dhananjayan remembers that the film wasnt advertised too aggressively. Posters were put up around the city, but the promotions werent as exhaustive as they are today. You didnt have social media then. Hell, you didnt even have internet then. VSNLs dial-up connection whose connecting sounds were immortalised by AR Rahman in the opening bit of Oh Maria from Kadhalar Dhinam was to be launched only months later in the same year. Rajinikanths fan clubs, as many as they were even then, hadnt yet exploded out of calculable reach. It was three years since the release of Annamalai, and Rajinikanth had suffered the debacles of Uzhaippali and Valli. His previous collaboration with Suresh Krissna, Veera, had redeemed his reputation somewhat, despite its controversial climax. So, you werent quite sure about Baasha. The title itself was a departure from usual Rajinikanth films, which were either generic summarizations of the protagonists character (Padikkadavan, Uzhaipali, Panakkaran, Mappillai), or relatable Hindu names of the protagonist (Annamalai, Pandiyan, Veera). You didnt really know what to expect from Baasha, and if you were a Rajini fan, as I was as an 11-year-old, you were rather nervous. You knew you didnt want another Valli. You drew hope from the success of the songs before the films release. You stuck your pencil into the audio cassette and rewound Naan Autokaaran over and over. You went back to school after the half-yearly holidays and drummed the songs beat on benches in between classes. You were the class hero if you could sing all the lines right. Sometimes, you got them mixed up, and your friend would say, No! Its nallavanga kootukaaran. And then, kambedutha vettakaaran. You didnt get to watch such sought-after films on the first day; not easily anyway. Today, you have people using the hashtag FDFS for films, and you want to smirk considering that the most they likely did to buy their tickets was to stay awake till midnight and open half-a-dozen tabs at once in different browsers. Back then, it was a lot like that famous theatre scene in Mannan, which released three years before Baasha. You didnt threaten people with razor blades, of course, but you may as well have, considering the jostling you had to endure. You had to endure a sleepless night. You had to endure standing in a queue that was always hopelessly long. And then, after hours of waiting, you likely had to endure being told that the tickets were sold out just as you dragged your hurting feet to the counter. You then likely had to resort to buying the tickets in black and had to pay an exorbitant price (Rs 200) for the balcony ticket (Rs 30). The excess of then is the norm of today. Despite being a huge admirer of the actor, I couldnt convince my family to get tickets for the first show. We caught an evening show on the first day at the-then theatre of dreams Devi. Those of us who remember the magic of cinema as watched in that unending screen of Devi can never truly dismiss the theatre. Dhananjayan caught the film in Devi too. There were hardly five or six top theatres you got to choose from, including Maharani and Alankar. Sathyam Cinemas then had three single screens, Sathyam, Santham, and Subham. The complex itself was one of several less-glamorous options. You didnt know then that it would become what it has today. You didnt know then that it would introduce popcorn and make it taste like dreams. There were other things you didnt know. As Rajinikanth breaks into dance for the opening song after saluting the audience, you didnt know then that one of the background dancersif you could see him amid the flying confetti, amid the mob running towards the screen so they could join the Superstar in dance, amid the utter chaos following Rajinikanths introductionwas a man called Kalyan, who would go on to become a respected dance choreographer in Tamil cinema. You didnt know that the film you were watching would become the biggest hit of its directors career; that the directors career would then begin to slowly fade. You definitely didnt know that this film would catapult its actors popularity to levels that had previously been thought unachievable. As Dhananjayan says, His statements acquired the power to decide the fate of governments. On the night of its release, as I happily slept with the reaffirmation that Rajinikanth indeed was the greatest actor in the galaxy, a get-together was taking place on the terrace of veteran producer SP Muthuramans house. Actor Mohan Raman remembers the night as if it were yesterday: I was privileged to be part of the gathering. Not everybody got to meet the Superstar on the day of his films release. The man himself joined the get-together at 11.30 pm. I distinctly recall him being utterly thrilled that the film was doing so well. For months after the release, Baasha was all you discussed. If you wanted to watch a film, you went and saw Baasha again. You watched it till you could run the film in your head during classes, scene by scene, dialogue by dialogue. Only two months later did Mani Ratnams Bombay come in to share the spotlight. By then, Baasha had become to Rajini what Thirumalai is to Vijay, and Billa is to Ajith, says Dhananjayan. Something unexpected, something magical had happened in Baashha. Neither Suresh Krissna nor Rajinikanth could ever put their finger on it. And thats why while lesser films have had sequels being made, Baasha hasnt. It likely will not ever. And now, after 22 years, its not Baashas sequel releasing, but Baasha itself.Abirami Ramanathan, owner of Abirami Mega Mall, thinks that the timing is all wrong. Exams will stop families from thronging the theatres, he says. And yet, seeing as how the opening days tickets are all sold out, it seems that the film has survived the test of time. For those of us who knew what the world was like when the film originally released, its pure magic that we are now booking tickets for Baasha using devices that hadnt even been invented when it first released.
By IANS
NEW DELHI: After arriving in India in January last year, Chinese internet and technology conglomerate LeEco fast became the "true disrupter" in the evolving Indian smartphone market with its huge marketing spend -- and the announcement of a state-of-the-art assembling/manufacturing unit.
News that the company has fired 85 per cent of its India staff across the sales, marketing and distribution departments -- and confirmed by a company source to IANS on Friday -- has effectively punctured a mammoth dream just within a year.
The source also confirmed to IANS that both Atul Jain, Chief Operating Officer, Smart Electronics Business, and Debashish Ghosh, Chief Operating Officer for Internet Applications, Services and Content, were "asked to leave" and had not quit as reported.
Speculation is also rife that LeEco may finally exit the country after spending millions on promoting its ecosystem of "superphones" and "super TVs".
"LeEco is in serious financial trouble and has, as a consequence, practically ceased India operations. The staff layoffs are a direct consequence of this. Even in the previous quarter, their shipments were close to zero," Jaideep Mehta, Managing Director, IDC South Asia, told IANS.
After its entry into India, the company launched five superphones, a LeEco membership of content and internet services, its e-commerce platform LeMall and, most recently, "SuperTVs".
"LeEco, as the name suggests, was built on the premise of an ecosystem. The device would open a user to an ecosystem and it was not just a smartphone. However, for a country like India, and even for many countries globally, this ecosystem isn't ready yet. Paid content consumption hasn't become big enough for a company to survive while earning nothing on the device itself," Faisal Kawoosa, Principal Analyst, Telecoms, CyberMedia Research (CMR), told IANS.
On the contrary, if you see other handset brands, to an extent they too make money from content, but as value-added earnings -- which is just a fraction of the actual earnings out of the device. For them, it is akin to average revenue per user (ARPU) of a telecom operator where the operator wants to earn more per user by offering additional services.
"LeEco came in to disrupt this business model and make the secondary streams of earnings as their primary. For that to happen, the ecosystem hasn't arrived yet. So their positioning as well as proposition went wrong. It dismayed a user to see nothing extraordinary in terms of Device+ strategy," Kawoosa added.
In August, LeEco announced a $7 million manufacturing unit in Greater Noida in the presence of IT and Electronics Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.
"As the market size for electronics is expected to grow to $400 billion by 2020, it is imperative to promote indigenous manufacturing. LeEco is a name of global reputation and it is heartening to see it align with 'Make in India' after entering India just eight months earlier," Prasad had told the gathering.
LeEco planned to ramp up the production to approximately 200,000 "superphones" per month by the end of 2016, before a severe financial crunch caught up with the company.
"I think there was a disconnect with their go-to-market strategy. Being an online player they spending was almost like a player with an offline distribution strategy. Although their products were good, it was the overall marketing strategy that led to quick cash-burn," Tarun Pathak, Senior Analyst, Mobile Devices and Ecosystems at New Delhi-based Counterpoint Research, told IANS.
According to Kawoosa, for few years, LeEco should have positioned itself as a brand offering better specs of hardware at affordable prices.
"Eventually, as the ecosystem would have matured, they could have played the LeEco card," Kawoosa told IANS.
For assembling/manufacturing in India, LeEco had partnered with the US-based company M2i which will continue to manufacture for others if, by any chance, LeEco doesn't continue to manufacture in India.
"I would say, these experiments will go on and we may see brands coming in and out for manufacturing in India. For 'Make in India', I wouldn't consider this as a blow yet," Pathak noted.
Given the LeEco experience, other smartphone players need to look at their scale of operations and play to their strengths.
"Since India is a such a diverse market, one strategy doesn't lead to guaranteed success throughout the country. With the smartphone segment being so competitive, and amidst razor-thin margins, brands need to watch their campaigns and invest wisely," added Kawoosa.
"It is simply a case of an over-ambitious company going under," Mehta noted.
NEW DELHI: After arriving in India in January last year, Chinese internet and technology conglomerate LeEco fast became the "true disrupter" in the evolving Indian smartphone market with its huge marketing spend -- and the announcement of a state-of-the-art assembling/manufacturing unit. News that the company has fired 85 per cent of its India staff across the sales, marketing and distribution departments -- and confirmed by a company source to IANS on Friday -- has effectively punctured a mammoth dream just within a year. The source also confirmed to IANS that both Atul Jain, Chief Operating Officer, Smart Electronics Business, and Debashish Ghosh, Chief Operating Officer for Internet Applications, Services and Content, were "asked to leave" and had not quit as reported. Speculation is also rife that LeEco may finally exit the country after spending millions on promoting its ecosystem of "superphones" and "super TVs". "LeEco is in serious financial trouble and has, as a consequence, practically ceased India operations. The staff layoffs are a direct consequence of this. Even in the previous quarter, their shipments were close to zero," Jaideep Mehta, Managing Director, IDC South Asia, told IANS. After its entry into India, the company launched five superphones, a LeEco membership of content and internet services, its e-commerce platform LeMall and, most recently, "SuperTVs". "LeEco, as the name suggests, was built on the premise of an ecosystem. The device would open a user to an ecosystem and it was not just a smartphone. However, for a country like India, and even for many countries globally, this ecosystem isn't ready yet. Paid content consumption hasn't become big enough for a company to survive while earning nothing on the device itself," Faisal Kawoosa, Principal Analyst, Telecoms, CyberMedia Research (CMR), told IANS. On the contrary, if you see other handset brands, to an extent they too make money from content, but as value-added earnings -- which is just a fraction of the actual earnings out of the device. For them, it is akin to average revenue per user (ARPU) of a telecom operator where the operator wants to earn more per user by offering additional services. "LeEco came in to disrupt this business model and make the secondary streams of earnings as their primary. For that to happen, the ecosystem hasn't arrived yet. So their positioning as well as proposition went wrong. It dismayed a user to see nothing extraordinary in terms of Device+ strategy," Kawoosa added. In August, LeEco announced a $7 million manufacturing unit in Greater Noida in the presence of IT and Electronics Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. "As the market size for electronics is expected to grow to $400 billion by 2020, it is imperative to promote indigenous manufacturing. LeEco is a name of global reputation and it is heartening to see it align with 'Make in India' after entering India just eight months earlier," Prasad had told the gathering. LeEco planned to ramp up the production to approximately 200,000 "superphones" per month by the end of 2016, before a severe financial crunch caught up with the company. "I think there was a disconnect with their go-to-market strategy. Being an online player they spending was almost like a player with an offline distribution strategy. Although their products were good, it was the overall marketing strategy that led to quick cash-burn," Tarun Pathak, Senior Analyst, Mobile Devices and Ecosystems at New Delhi-based Counterpoint Research, told IANS. According to Kawoosa, for few years, LeEco should have positioned itself as a brand offering better specs of hardware at affordable prices. "Eventually, as the ecosystem would have matured, they could have played the LeEco card," Kawoosa told IANS. For assembling/manufacturing in India, LeEco had partnered with the US-based company M2i which will continue to manufacture for others if, by any chance, LeEco doesn't continue to manufacture in India. "I would say, these experiments will go on and we may see brands coming in and out for manufacturing in India. For 'Make in India', I wouldn't consider this as a blow yet," Pathak noted. Given the LeEco experience, other smartphone players need to look at their scale of operations and play to their strengths. "Since India is a such a diverse market, one strategy doesn't lead to guaranteed success throughout the country. With the smartphone segment being so competitive, and amidst razor-thin margins, brands need to watch their campaigns and invest wisely," added Kawoosa. "It is simply a case of an over-ambitious company going under," Mehta noted.
By IANS
KOLKATA: Arrested BJP leader Juhee Chowdhury, suspected to be involved in a child trafficking racket in West Bengal, has mentioned the names of some "influential political personalities" during her grilling, a CID source said on Thursday.
"Juhee is presently being interrogated about her alleged involvement in the child trafficking racket. She has mentioned the names of some influential political personalities during interrogation which we cannot reveal right now for the sake of the investigation," a CID officer said.
The officer also confirmed that Chowdhury would be interrogated together with prime accused Chandana Chakraborty for clarity in the case.
"We would interrogate them together as well as separately as we need the corroboration and contradiction from both of them," he added.
Chowdhury, a former leader of Bharatiya Janata Party's woman wing (mahila morcha) in West Bengal's Jalpaiguri district, was arrested by the state police's Criminal Investigation Department on Tuesday night from Batasia area close to the India-Nepal border in Darjeeling and was sent to 12 days CID custody on Wednesday.
Following the court order, the BJP removed her from the post of the state secretary of the Mahila Morcha (women's wing), saying her activities have harmed the party's image.
According to the sources, Chowdhury fled to a relative's house in Nepal for a few days to escape from the state investigating agency before returning to the village near the Indo-Nepal border.
CID sleuths are also looking for her father Rabindranarayan Chowdhury, a local BJP leader who looked after Juhee's financial transactions.
Chowdhury's arrest came after Chandana Chakraborty, arrested in connection with the scandal earlier, blamed her for wrongdoing and accused the young BJP leader of negotiating with the political heavyweights in Delhi about her child adoption centre.
"Juhee assured me she would sort out all the issues. She might have talked to (BJP leaders) Roopa Ganguly and Kailash Vijayvargiya. I was sitting in a separate room. We are innocent. We will definitely help in the investigation," Chakraborty alleged. Both Ganguly and Vijayvargiya have rubbished the charges.
The state BJP leadership, which conceded that the party was "under some discomfort" after the young leader's arrest, said it would not take her side if she is found guilty.
"There is no denying the fact that her arrest has caused us some discomfort," said former BJP state President Rahul Sinha.
KOLKATA: Arrested BJP leader Juhee Chowdhury, suspected to be involved in a child trafficking racket in West Bengal, has mentioned the names of some "influential political personalities" during her grilling, a CID source said on Thursday. "Juhee is presently being interrogated about her alleged involvement in the child trafficking racket. She has mentioned the names of some influential political personalities during interrogation which we cannot reveal right now for the sake of the investigation," a CID officer said. The officer also confirmed that Chowdhury would be interrogated together with prime accused Chandana Chakraborty for clarity in the case. "We would interrogate them together as well as separately as we need the corroboration and contradiction from both of them," he added. Chowdhury, a former leader of Bharatiya Janata Party's woman wing (mahila morcha) in West Bengal's Jalpaiguri district, was arrested by the state police's Criminal Investigation Department on Tuesday night from Batasia area close to the India-Nepal border in Darjeeling and was sent to 12 days CID custody on Wednesday. Following the court order, the BJP removed her from the post of the state secretary of the Mahila Morcha (women's wing), saying her activities have harmed the party's image. According to the sources, Chowdhury fled to a relative's house in Nepal for a few days to escape from the state investigating agency before returning to the village near the Indo-Nepal border. CID sleuths are also looking for her father Rabindranarayan Chowdhury, a local BJP leader who looked after Juhee's financial transactions. Chowdhury's arrest came after Chandana Chakraborty, arrested in connection with the scandal earlier, blamed her for wrongdoing and accused the young BJP leader of negotiating with the political heavyweights in Delhi about her child adoption centre. "Juhee assured me she would sort out all the issues. She might have talked to (BJP leaders) Roopa Ganguly and Kailash Vijayvargiya. I was sitting in a separate room. We are innocent. We will definitely help in the investigation," Chakraborty alleged. Both Ganguly and Vijayvargiya have rubbished the charges. The state BJP leadership, which conceded that the party was "under some discomfort" after the young leader's arrest, said it would not take her side if she is found guilty. "There is no denying the fact that her arrest has caused us some discomfort," said former BJP state President Rahul Sinha.
By IANS
NEW DELHI: The ABVP on Friday said it will soon file a police complaint against the appearance of "anti-national" posters in the JNU campus.
"These posters were allegedly pasted inside the campus by Democratic Students Union (DSU) and our delegation complained to the JNU administration on Friday and demanded action against DSU and the students behind such anti-national stuff but the administration claimed these posters were from last year," Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) Delhi State Secretary Bharat Khatana told IANS.
The controversy cropped up on Thursday evening when some students found certain posters inside the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) campus which called for freedom for Kashmir and Palestine and "right for self determination".
"We have also complained to Lt Governor Anil Baijal about such anti-national posters inside JNU campus during our meeting with him at Raj Niwas.
"We have asked him to direct the Delhi Police to file a chargesheet in the February 9, 2016, anti-national sloganeering by Umar Khalid and DSU supporters in JNU and now in Delhi University," Khatana said.
"We will file a complaint against DSU for putting such posters with anti-national content inside JNU campus," he added.
The police however said they are yet to hear from the students on this issue and have not been asked to file a complaint.
"We have not received any complaint from any students organisation and JNU administration over any posters. We are waiting for a formal complaint before taking any action," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Chinmoy Biswal told IANS.
NEW DELHI: The ABVP on Friday said it will soon file a police complaint against the appearance of "anti-national" posters in the JNU campus. "These posters were allegedly pasted inside the campus by Democratic Students Union (DSU) and our delegation complained to the JNU administration on Friday and demanded action against DSU and the students behind such anti-national stuff but the administration claimed these posters were from last year," Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) Delhi State Secretary Bharat Khatana told IANS. The controversy cropped up on Thursday evening when some students found certain posters inside the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) campus which called for freedom for Kashmir and Palestine and "right for self determination". "We have also complained to Lt Governor Anil Baijal about such anti-national posters inside JNU campus during our meeting with him at Raj Niwas. "We have asked him to direct the Delhi Police to file a chargesheet in the February 9, 2016, anti-national sloganeering by Umar Khalid and DSU supporters in JNU and now in Delhi University," Khatana said. "We will file a complaint against DSU for putting such posters with anti-national content inside JNU campus," he added. The police however said they are yet to hear from the students on this issue and have not been asked to file a complaint. "We have not received any complaint from any students organisation and JNU administration over any posters. We are waiting for a formal complaint before taking any action," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Chinmoy Biswal told IANS.
By IANS
PATNA: The Bihar government on Friday suspended an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer for his alleged role in a leakage of question papers, an official said.
"The state government has suspended Sudhir Kumar, Chairman of Staff Selection Commission (SSC), Bihar, a week after he was arrested from neighbouring Jharkhand in connection with a leakage of question papers," a General Administration Department official said.
The department has also issued a notification to this effect.
Kumar, a 1987-batch IAS officer, was arrested along with four of his close relatives from Hazaribagh district.
He had widely been known as a hard working and honest officer.
The Bihar IAS Association has protested against the arrest of Kumar and also demanded a CBI probe into the case.
The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) raised the issue of Kumar's arrest in the ongoing budget session of the state assembly.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Bihar Police, which arrested Kumar, has submitted evidences against him to the state government. The SIT is said to have informed the government that it has strong evidences against the officer.
Last month after the leakage surfaced, the examination for recruitment of clerks in the state government, which was conducted in two parts on February 5 and 8, was cancelled.
The leaked questions appeared in the social media sites and WhatsApp on both dates and went viral in no time.
The SIT has also arrested the owner of a printing press in Ahmedabad in Gujarat, where the SSC, Bihar, question papers were printed.
During the interrogation of the owner, it was established that the papers were leaked from there ahead of the examinations, police officials said.
The Bihar government had suspended SSC Secretary Parmeshwar Ram before he was also arrested earlier this week.
More than 20 persons have so far been arrested over the leakage of question paper.
PATNA: The Bihar government on Friday suspended an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer for his alleged role in a leakage of question papers, an official said. "The state government has suspended Sudhir Kumar, Chairman of Staff Selection Commission (SSC), Bihar, a week after he was arrested from neighbouring Jharkhand in connection with a leakage of question papers," a General Administration Department official said. The department has also issued a notification to this effect. Kumar, a 1987-batch IAS officer, was arrested along with four of his close relatives from Hazaribagh district. He had widely been known as a hard working and honest officer. The Bihar IAS Association has protested against the arrest of Kumar and also demanded a CBI probe into the case. The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) raised the issue of Kumar's arrest in the ongoing budget session of the state assembly. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Bihar Police, which arrested Kumar, has submitted evidences against him to the state government. The SIT is said to have informed the government that it has strong evidences against the officer. Last month after the leakage surfaced, the examination for recruitment of clerks in the state government, which was conducted in two parts on February 5 and 8, was cancelled. The leaked questions appeared in the social media sites and WhatsApp on both dates and went viral in no time. The SIT has also arrested the owner of a printing press in Ahmedabad in Gujarat, where the SSC, Bihar, question papers were printed. During the interrogation of the owner, it was established that the papers were leaked from there ahead of the examinations, police officials said. The Bihar government had suspended SSC Secretary Parmeshwar Ram before he was also arrested earlier this week. More than 20 persons have so far been arrested over the leakage of question paper.
Namita bajpai By
Express News Service
LUCKNOW: The buzz has changed ever so slightly as the UP electoral bandwagon moved into the eastern region of the State. With 89 seats at stake across 14 districts in the sixth and seventh phases on March 4 and 8 respectively, the BJPs campaign, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has shifted to a higher gear and refused to back down on demonetisation after a couple of weeks of being on the defensive.
On the other hand, the Samajwadi Party is defending this turf without the active involvement of Mulayam Singh Yadav in his own constituency of Azamgarh where it won nine out the 10 seats in 2012. Indeed, the SP had then swept this region, winning 50 out of the 89 seats. The last stretch is, therefore, likely to be a trial of Akhilesh Yadavs acceptance.
For Modi, the gentle spin given to the GDP numbers by the Central Statistical Organisation has been timely as he revs up the BJP campaign in a region with a higher proportion of the upper caste vote.
The fact that the pangs of demonetisation have begun to ease and queues at ATMs have ceased is working to the advantage of the BJP while blunting Akhileshs criticism of demonetisation.
On the other hand, the challenge for the Samajwadis is stiffer as the party is facing a strong anti-incumbency sentiment in this region.
The SP government has not done enough in eastern UP despite having won a huge mandate from this region. The party has disappointed its voters across these 14 districts which are grappling with a number of issues, says a prominent political scientist.
LUCKNOW: The buzz has changed ever so slightly as the UP electoral bandwagon moved into the eastern region of the State. With 89 seats at stake across 14 districts in the sixth and seventh phases on March 4 and 8 respectively, the BJPs campaign, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has shifted to a higher gear and refused to back down on demonetisation after a couple of weeks of being on the defensive. On the other hand, the Samajwadi Party is defending this turf without the active involvement of Mulayam Singh Yadav in his own constituency of Azamgarh where it won nine out the 10 seats in 2012. Indeed, the SP had then swept this region, winning 50 out of the 89 seats. The last stretch is, therefore, likely to be a trial of Akhilesh Yadavs acceptance. For Modi, the gentle spin given to the GDP numbers by the Central Statistical Organisation has been timely as he revs up the BJP campaign in a region with a higher proportion of the upper caste vote. The fact that the pangs of demonetisation have begun to ease and queues at ATMs have ceased is working to the advantage of the BJP while blunting Akhileshs criticism of demonetisation. On the other hand, the challenge for the Samajwadis is stiffer as the party is facing a strong anti-incumbency sentiment in this region. The SP government has not done enough in eastern UP despite having won a huge mandate from this region. The party has disappointed its voters across these 14 districts which are grappling with a number of issues, says a prominent political scientist.
Fayaz Wani By
Express News Service
SRINAGAR: A civilian was killed and two CRPF men and a civilian injured in a grenade attack on the armored vehicle of paramilitary forces in South Kashmirs Pulwama district.
A police officer said militants hurled a grenade towards a CRPF vehicle (mobile bunker) in busy Murran chowk area of Pulwama district at around 11.45 am.
He said the grenade hit the rear side of the vehicle and exploded with a big bang.
Two civilians and two CRPF men sustained splinter injuries in the grenade blast.
The injured were rushed to District Hospital Pulwama, where one of the critically injured person identified as Mohammad Ayoub Wani succumbed to injuries.
According to doctors, the grenade splinters had pierced through his heart.
They termed condition of another injured as stable.
Immediately after the grenade attack, police and paramilitary personnel laid siege around the area. They conducted combing operation in the area to flush out the militants responsible for the attack. However, no arrests were reported.
A police officer said they believe the attack was carried out by Hizbul Mujahideen militants.
The Hizb militants are mostly active in South Kashmir and this attack would have been carried by them. We are trying to identify the militants involved in the attack, he said.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti has condemned the killing of a civilian in the grenade attack.
Killings and violence have done no good to societies but have only added up the miseries and wounds of people leaving behind a trail of tragedies, she said and expressed her sympathies with the injured in the blast and prayed for their speedy recovery.
SRINAGAR: A civilian was killed and two CRPF men and a civilian injured in a grenade attack on the armored vehicle of paramilitary forces in South Kashmirs Pulwama district. A police officer said militants hurled a grenade towards a CRPF vehicle (mobile bunker) in busy Murran chowk area of Pulwama district at around 11.45 am. He said the grenade hit the rear side of the vehicle and exploded with a big bang. window.__ventunoplayer = window.__ventunoplayer||[]; window.__ventunoplayer.push({video_key: 'ODk3MDAwfHw4fHw2fHwxLDIsMQ==', holder_id: 'vt-video-player', player_type: 'vp', width:'100%', ratio:'4:3'}); Two civilians and two CRPF men sustained splinter injuries in the grenade blast. The injured were rushed to District Hospital Pulwama, where one of the critically injured person identified as Mohammad Ayoub Wani succumbed to injuries. According to doctors, the grenade splinters had pierced through his heart. They termed condition of another injured as stable. Immediately after the grenade attack, police and paramilitary personnel laid siege around the area. They conducted combing operation in the area to flush out the militants responsible for the attack. However, no arrests were reported. A police officer said they believe the attack was carried out by Hizbul Mujahideen militants. The Hizb militants are mostly active in South Kashmir and this attack would have been carried by them. We are trying to identify the militants involved in the attack, he said. Meanwhile, Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti has condemned the killing of a civilian in the grenade attack. Killings and violence have done no good to societies but have only added up the miseries and wounds of people leaving behind a trail of tragedies, she said and expressed her sympathies with the injured in the blast and prayed for their speedy recovery.
Rakesh K Singh By
Express News Service
NEW DELHI: The security of the CRPF personnel who will facilitate the conduct of elections in violence-hit Manipur on Saturday may be compromised as the paramilitary directorate here has not provided Mine Protected Vehicles (MPVs) and Bullet-Proof Vehicles (BPVs) for the force deployed in the poll-bound State.
The Manipur & Nagaland sector of the CRPF had projected a requirement of as many as 10 MPVs and about 20 BPVs but none have reached the sensitive State, insiders in the paramilitary said.
The requirements for MPVs and other gadgets were projected after Intelligence inputs indicated infiltration of insurgent groups from Myanmar and other areas to attack security forces and disrupt the election process
To buttress its demand for MPVs, the M & N Sector of the CRPF had alerted the CRPF Directorate here that the insurgent groups in Manipur have developed the expertise in making and triggering IEDs and cases of IEDs/Grenade detection and explosions have been reported every month. The Sector had also clearly mentioned that the requirements of the specialised vehicles, communication equipment and other gadgets like satellite phones projected on the basis of threat perception, security scenario and location of the polling stations in far-flung areas.
The Sector had projected a demand of 10 MPVs preferably those fitted with electronic counter measure device like initiator and jammers for deployment in critical and vulnerable areas.
Officials said the CRPF headquarters could not provide the MPVs due to large-scale shortage of these specialised vehicles. The paramilitary does not have a long-term planning for procurement of critical equipment for the safety of the personnel and no MPV has been procured in the last five years, officials from the ground said in condition of anonymity, adding the Union Home Ministry has not even provided a dedicated helicopter for meeting exigencies during the polls.
They said CRPF will be deployed in most sensitive areas of Ukhrul, Churachandpur and Senapati besides the bordering areas of the State where there is high degree of possibility that the insurgent groups might target the convoys of vehicles carrying security force;s personnel.
The security situation in the Northeast remains volatile and the insurgent groups have intermittently targeted the security forces in Manipur with over 200 IED blasts reported from the region in the last over seven years. The security forces have recovered over 5,000 IEDs during the period, a senior official said.
Recently, two CRPF troops were injured when the insurgent groups attacked the Force in Imphal West district of Manipur.
On December 3 last year, the terrorists hit a convoy of Assam Rifles along the Indo-Mynamar border in Arunachal Pradesh in which two personnel of the paramilitary including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) was killed.
On November 19 last year, three Army jawans were killed and four others injured in an encounter with suspected ULFA insurgents near Digboi in Tinsukia district of Assam. On May 22, 2016, six personnel of Assam Rifles were killed by the insurgents in a brutal attack on the Force. Likewise, in an incident of ambush/blast on June 4, 2015, the insurgents killed 18 troops of the Army and injured 11 others.
Officials said MPVs help in safe and secure mobility of troops from one place to the other. Every convoy of Army/ Assam Rifles comprise two to three MPVs/Casspier vehicles, another official said, adding this should be the norm for CRPF as well.
As many as seven battalions (7000 personnel) of the CRPF have been deployed in violence-hit Manipur for poll-related duties.
Inspector General of M & N Sector of CRPF Vikram Sehgal refused to talk on the issue citing operational constraints. In-charge spokesperson and DIG (Intelligence) Dhinakaran also did not respond to queries from the Express.
NEW DELHI: The security of the CRPF personnel who will facilitate the conduct of elections in violence-hit Manipur on Saturday may be compromised as the paramilitary directorate here has not provided Mine Protected Vehicles (MPVs) and Bullet-Proof Vehicles (BPVs) for the force deployed in the poll-bound State. The Manipur & Nagaland sector of the CRPF had projected a requirement of as many as 10 MPVs and about 20 BPVs but none have reached the sensitive State, insiders in the paramilitary said. The requirements for MPVs and other gadgets were projected after Intelligence inputs indicated infiltration of insurgent groups from Myanmar and other areas to attack security forces and disrupt the election process To buttress its demand for MPVs, the M & N Sector of the CRPF had alerted the CRPF Directorate here that the insurgent groups in Manipur have developed the expertise in making and triggering IEDs and cases of IEDs/Grenade detection and explosions have been reported every month. The Sector had also clearly mentioned that the requirements of the specialised vehicles, communication equipment and other gadgets like satellite phones projected on the basis of threat perception, security scenario and location of the polling stations in far-flung areas. The Sector had projected a demand of 10 MPVs preferably those fitted with electronic counter measure device like initiator and jammers for deployment in critical and vulnerable areas. Officials said the CRPF headquarters could not provide the MPVs due to large-scale shortage of these specialised vehicles. The paramilitary does not have a long-term planning for procurement of critical equipment for the safety of the personnel and no MPV has been procured in the last five years, officials from the ground said in condition of anonymity, adding the Union Home Ministry has not even provided a dedicated helicopter for meeting exigencies during the polls. They said CRPF will be deployed in most sensitive areas of Ukhrul, Churachandpur and Senapati besides the bordering areas of the State where there is high degree of possibility that the insurgent groups might target the convoys of vehicles carrying security force;s personnel. The security situation in the Northeast remains volatile and the insurgent groups have intermittently targeted the security forces in Manipur with over 200 IED blasts reported from the region in the last over seven years. The security forces have recovered over 5,000 IEDs during the period, a senior official said. Recently, two CRPF troops were injured when the insurgent groups attacked the Force in Imphal West district of Manipur. On December 3 last year, the terrorists hit a convoy of Assam Rifles along the Indo-Mynamar border in Arunachal Pradesh in which two personnel of the paramilitary including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) was killed. On November 19 last year, three Army jawans were killed and four others injured in an encounter with suspected ULFA insurgents near Digboi in Tinsukia district of Assam. On May 22, 2016, six personnel of Assam Rifles were killed by the insurgents in a brutal attack on the Force. Likewise, in an incident of ambush/blast on June 4, 2015, the insurgents killed 18 troops of the Army and injured 11 others. Officials said MPVs help in safe and secure mobility of troops from one place to the other. Every convoy of Army/ Assam Rifles comprise two to three MPVs/Casspier vehicles, another official said, adding this should be the norm for CRPF as well. As many as seven battalions (7000 personnel) of the CRPF have been deployed in violence-hit Manipur for poll-related duties. Inspector General of M & N Sector of CRPF Vikram Sehgal refused to talk on the issue citing operational constraints. In-charge spokesperson and DIG (Intelligence) Dhinakaran also did not respond to queries from the Express.
By PTI
KOLHAPUR: Noted Ambedkarite thinker Dr Krishna Kirwale was found murdered at his house in western Maharashtra's Kolhapur city today.
Police said his body was found with multiple stab wounds at his Rajendranagar residence.
Kirwale (62), was the retired head of the Marathi department of Kolhapur's Shivaji University.
Meanwhile, one person has been detained in connection with the murder, police said, adding that an unidentified person hurled stones at the suspect's house.
Among Kirwale's major contributions was a 'Dictionary of Dalit and Gramin (Rural) Literatures', a project undertaken under the aegis of the state government. Among his other books was a biography of pioneering Dalit litterateur, Baburao Bagul.
Kirwale also lectured widely on issues in Ambedkarite literature in particular, and Marathi literature in general.
Police officers didn't comment on possible motive behind the brutal murder.
Kirawale was also the head of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Centre for Research and Development of the varsity before he retired two years ago.
In 2015, communist leader Govind Pansare, 81, and his wife Uma were shot at with 7.65-mm country-made pistols in Kolhapur. Pansare died later in Mumbai.
In 2013, rationalist Narendra Dabholkar (69) was shot dead in Pune by the motorcycle-borne assailants who had pumped four bullets into him, again from a 7.65-mm country-made pistol.
Condemning Kirwale's killing, the leader of opposition in the Legislative Council, Dhananjay Munde said the incident shows the collapse of law and order situation in Maharashtra.
"This killing is serious as Kirwale was working in Dabholkar's movement as well," he said.
Union minister Ramdas Athawale said the government should order a probe into Kirwale's murder and punish the guilty.
KOLHAPUR: Noted Ambedkarite thinker Dr Krishna Kirwale was found murdered at his house in western Maharashtra's Kolhapur city today. Police said his body was found with multiple stab wounds at his Rajendranagar residence. Kirwale (62), was the retired head of the Marathi department of Kolhapur's Shivaji University. Meanwhile, one person has been detained in connection with the murder, police said, adding that an unidentified person hurled stones at the suspect's house. Among Kirwale's major contributions was a 'Dictionary of Dalit and Gramin (Rural) Literatures', a project undertaken under the aegis of the state government. Among his other books was a biography of pioneering Dalit litterateur, Baburao Bagul. Kirwale also lectured widely on issues in Ambedkarite literature in particular, and Marathi literature in general. Police officers didn't comment on possible motive behind the brutal murder. Kirawale was also the head of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Centre for Research and Development of the varsity before he retired two years ago. In 2015, communist leader Govind Pansare, 81, and his wife Uma were shot at with 7.65-mm country-made pistols in Kolhapur. Pansare died later in Mumbai. In 2013, rationalist Narendra Dabholkar (69) was shot dead in Pune by the motorcycle-borne assailants who had pumped four bullets into him, again from a 7.65-mm country-made pistol. Condemning Kirwale's killing, the leader of opposition in the Legislative Council, Dhananjay Munde said the incident shows the collapse of law and order situation in Maharashtra. "This killing is serious as Kirwale was working in Dabholkar's movement as well," he said. Union minister Ramdas Athawale said the government should order a probe into Kirwale's murder and punish the guilty.
By ANI
MUMBAI: Slamming the Centre over the embroiling Gurmehar Kaur row, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar on Thursday condemned Haryana Health Minister Anil Vijs remark over the same, dubbing it as wrong and against the society.
Reactions of some ministers in the Centre & the Haryana Government are totally wrong and against the society. It shows that their thinking is totally wrong, said Pawar while addressing a press conference here.
The ideology of the government in itself is wrong and that is why such a situation has erupted, he added.
Vij on Thursday had branded people supporting Kargil braveheart Captain M. Singh's daughter Gurmehar Kaur as 'pro-Pakistan'.
"Those supporting Gurmehar Kaur are pro-Pakistan and therefore, such people should be thrown out of the country," Vij had said.
Kaur, who is a Delhi University student, posted a message against the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) on social media that led to several groups and celebrities raising voices for and against her in equal numbers.
Clashes had erupted last week after the ABVP allegedly manhandled and thrashed students protesting the cancellation of an event at Ramjas College at which controversial JNU student Umar Khalid was scheduled to speak.
MUMBAI: Slamming the Centre over the embroiling Gurmehar Kaur row, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar on Thursday condemned Haryana Health Minister Anil Vijs remark over the same, dubbing it as wrong and against the society. Reactions of some ministers in the Centre & the Haryana Government are totally wrong and against the society. It shows that their thinking is totally wrong, said Pawar while addressing a press conference here. The ideology of the government in itself is wrong and that is why such a situation has erupted, he added. Vij on Thursday had branded people supporting Kargil braveheart Captain M. Singh's daughter Gurmehar Kaur as 'pro-Pakistan'. "Those supporting Gurmehar Kaur are pro-Pakistan and therefore, such people should be thrown out of the country," Vij had said. Kaur, who is a Delhi University student, posted a message against the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) on social media that led to several groups and celebrities raising voices for and against her in equal numbers. Clashes had erupted last week after the ABVP allegedly manhandled and thrashed students protesting the cancellation of an event at Ramjas College at which controversial JNU student Umar Khalid was scheduled to speak.
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: India on Friday reasserted its rights to host revered Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in Arunachal Pradesh, even as China has warned that it would cause serious damage to bilateral ties as it claims the region a disputed border region.
Ministry of External Affairs official on condition of anonymity insisted that there has been no change on the governments position that His Holiness the Dalai Lama is respected and revered spiritual leader and as an honoured guest was free to travel to any part of India. Dalai Lama is scheduled to visit Tawang, Itanagar and eastern districts of Arunachal Pradesh from April 4 to April 13.
Dalai Lama has been in India home since his escape in 1959 much to the chagrin of China, which continues to term him as wolf in monks clothing. According to Buddhist traditions, the soul of a senior lama is reincarnated following his death. Even as Dalai Lama has hinted at doing away with the title after his death, the officially atheist Communists leaders of China insist on appointing his successor in the light of the right inherited from Chinas emperors.
India so far has been hesitant in using the Tibetan Spiritual leader to send a strong message to China. However, Beijing continuous opposition to Indias national interests energy security through entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and cripple Masood Azhars terror network by getting him onto the UNs proscribed terrorist list.
Dalai Lama will be meeting the Indian government officials, including Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju during his visit to Tawang, reflecting its official backing. Rijiju himself hails from Arunachal Pradesh. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang on Friday said: China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai to visit Arunachal Pradesh. China is strongly opposed to the Dalai visiting disputed areas.
Tawang the town on Indo-China border has been the bone of contention between the two countries, Beijing had earlier objected to Dalai Lamas visit to town in 2009. Tawang that China claims to be part of the southern China has links to the history between the two countries as it was through its passes Dalai Lama had crossed over to India.
NEW DELHI: India on Friday reasserted its rights to host revered Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in Arunachal Pradesh, even as China has warned that it would cause serious damage to bilateral ties as it claims the region a disputed border region. Ministry of External Affairs official on condition of anonymity insisted that there has been no change on the governments position that His Holiness the Dalai Lama is respected and revered spiritual leader and as an honoured guest was free to travel to any part of India. Dalai Lama is scheduled to visit Tawang, Itanagar and eastern districts of Arunachal Pradesh from April 4 to April 13. Dalai Lama has been in India home since his escape in 1959 much to the chagrin of China, which continues to term him as wolf in monks clothing. According to Buddhist traditions, the soul of a senior lama is reincarnated following his death. Even as Dalai Lama has hinted at doing away with the title after his death, the officially atheist Communists leaders of China insist on appointing his successor in the light of the right inherited from Chinas emperors. India so far has been hesitant in using the Tibetan Spiritual leader to send a strong message to China. However, Beijing continuous opposition to Indias national interests energy security through entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and cripple Masood Azhars terror network by getting him onto the UNs proscribed terrorist list. Dalai Lama will be meeting the Indian government officials, including Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju during his visit to Tawang, reflecting its official backing. Rijiju himself hails from Arunachal Pradesh. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang on Friday said: China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai to visit Arunachal Pradesh. China is strongly opposed to the Dalai visiting disputed areas. Tawang the town on Indo-China border has been the bone of contention between the two countries, Beijing had earlier objected to Dalai Lamas visit to town in 2009. Tawang that China claims to be part of the southern China has links to the history between the two countries as it was through its passes Dalai Lama had crossed over to India.
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: After Pakistan refused to extradite alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav, a former Indian Navy officer, India has expressed concerns about his safety as Islamabad has repeatedly refused consular access to him.
Pakistan Prime Ministers Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz ruled out extradition of Jadhav, who has allegedly been involved in subversive activities, during the Question Hour Session in the Pakistani Senate.
Government has on several occasions completely rejected the baseless allegations against Kulbhushan Jadhav. Circumstances of his presence in Pakistan remain unclear, particularly because we have not been provided consular access despite our repeated requests, sources in the Ministry of External Affairs said.
They added that India expects the Government of Pakistan to follow well-established international practice in this regard to ensure his well-being in custody.
The Pakistan media has been quoting Aziz that the government was preparing a dossier for the prosecution of Jadhav."This is very delicate and sensitive issue and requires detailed preparations and home work as it relates to direct or indirect involvement of Indian state actor in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan." Aziz added that a list of questions has also been sent to the Indian government on this matter.
NEW DELHI: After Pakistan refused to extradite alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav, a former Indian Navy officer, India has expressed concerns about his safety as Islamabad has repeatedly refused consular access to him. Pakistan Prime Ministers Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz ruled out extradition of Jadhav, who has allegedly been involved in subversive activities, during the Question Hour Session in the Pakistani Senate. Government has on several occasions completely rejected the baseless allegations against Kulbhushan Jadhav. Circumstances of his presence in Pakistan remain unclear, particularly because we have not been provided consular access despite our repeated requests, sources in the Ministry of External Affairs said. They added that India expects the Government of Pakistan to follow well-established international practice in this regard to ensure his well-being in custody. The Pakistan media has been quoting Aziz that the government was preparing a dossier for the prosecution of Jadhav."This is very delicate and sensitive issue and requires detailed preparations and home work as it relates to direct or indirect involvement of Indian state actor in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan." Aziz added that a list of questions has also been sent to the Indian government on this matter.
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: The Army has ordered an inquiry into the mysterious death of a jawan who was on Thursday found hanging in an unused Army barrack in Deolali and had recently featured in a media video exposing the abuse of the Indian Armys colonial 'buddy' system.
Lance Naik Roy Mathew, (33), who hailed from Ezhukon in Kollam district of Kerala, was found hanging from the ceiling of a room in an abandoned barrack at the artillary centre in Deolali cantonment on Thursday, senior police officer Shrikant Dhivre told New Indian Express.
Soldiers in the camp searched the area after a foul smell emanated from the building, and found Roy's partially decomposed body, which appeared to be four days old, said officer Shrikant Dhivre.
Roy Mathew , who had joined the Army 13 years ago as a gunner was posted to Deolali about two years back. He had gone missing since February 25, when the video where he had voiced ills of the "Sahayak" or orderly system being followed in the army had gone viral.
The video, in which Roy Mathew covered his face, narrating the woes of soldiers which was shot by a news website as part of a sting operation, showed soldiers attached to senior officers for "buddy duties" walking their dogs or taking their children to school. The Army has begun an inquiry into the sting.
A case of "accidental death" has been registered as of now and police are yet to ascertain whether it was suicide or murder. A diary and a letter were recovered from the body and it appears that the extreme step was triggered by guilt, said officer Shrikant Dhivre.
Army officials, however, have denied reports that Roy Mathew was questioned and put under pressure, and went ahead with a statement calling it a suicide case. However, sources said Roy Mathew had told his kin that he feared he would lose his job and would have to face consequences for the act.
Preliminary investigations have now revealed that the suicide may be a result of a series of events which were triggered by media personnel managing to videograph the deceased by asking leading questions on his duties as a buddy without his knowledge, said the statement.
It is very likely that the guilt factor of letting down his superiors or conveying false impressions to an unknown individual led him to take the extreme step, the Army statement
Army sources claimed that on February 25, Mathew made his last phone call to his wife and then sent a sorry message to his Colonel-rank officer, with whom he was attached at the Centre.
The identities of the army personnel involved in the clipping was hidden, and they were not known to the Army. Hence, there is no question of any inquiry that could have been ordered against the deceased, added the statement.
A series of videos showing jawans working in poor conditions went viral on social media including the video of another jawan - Lance Naik Yagya Pratap Singh - describing menial jobs as a sahayak going viral in January. Lance Naik Singh alleged that he was forced to wash clothes, polish boots and walk dogs for his seniors. He flagged his complaint to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others in a letter.
NEW DELHI: The Army has ordered an inquiry into the mysterious death of a jawan who was on Thursday found hanging in an unused Army barrack in Deolali and had recently featured in a media video exposing the abuse of the Indian Armys colonial 'buddy' system. Lance Naik Roy Mathew, (33), who hailed from Ezhukon in Kollam district of Kerala, was found hanging from the ceiling of a room in an abandoned barrack at the artillary centre in Deolali cantonment on Thursday, senior police officer Shrikant Dhivre told New Indian Express. Soldiers in the camp searched the area after a foul smell emanated from the building, and found Roy's partially decomposed body, which appeared to be four days old, said officer Shrikant Dhivre. Roy Mathew , who had joined the Army 13 years ago as a gunner was posted to Deolali about two years back. He had gone missing since February 25, when the video where he had voiced ills of the "Sahayak" or orderly system being followed in the army had gone viral. The video, in which Roy Mathew covered his face, narrating the woes of soldiers which was shot by a news website as part of a sting operation, showed soldiers attached to senior officers for "buddy duties" walking their dogs or taking their children to school. The Army has begun an inquiry into the sting. A case of "accidental death" has been registered as of now and police are yet to ascertain whether it was suicide or murder. A diary and a letter were recovered from the body and it appears that the extreme step was triggered by guilt, said officer Shrikant Dhivre. Army officials, however, have denied reports that Roy Mathew was questioned and put under pressure, and went ahead with a statement calling it a suicide case. However, sources said Roy Mathew had told his kin that he feared he would lose his job and would have to face consequences for the act. Preliminary investigations have now revealed that the suicide may be a result of a series of events which were triggered by media personnel managing to videograph the deceased by asking leading questions on his duties as a buddy without his knowledge, said the statement. It is very likely that the guilt factor of letting down his superiors or conveying false impressions to an unknown individual led him to take the extreme step, the Army statement Army sources claimed that on February 25, Mathew made his last phone call to his wife and then sent a sorry message to his Colonel-rank officer, with whom he was attached at the Centre. The identities of the army personnel involved in the clipping was hidden, and they were not known to the Army. Hence, there is no question of any inquiry that could have been ordered against the deceased, added the statement. A series of videos showing jawans working in poor conditions went viral on social media including the video of another jawan - Lance Naik Yagya Pratap Singh - describing menial jobs as a sahayak going viral in January. Lance Naik Singh alleged that he was forced to wash clothes, polish boots and walk dogs for his seniors. He flagged his complaint to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others in a letter.
By PTI
THANE: A major fire broke out at a fabric processing unit at Ajanta Compound in the powerloom town of Bhiwandi in the district this afternoon, police said.
"A massive fire broke out at a fabric sizing company located at Dhamankar naka around 1.45 pm today," a police officer from Bhiwandi said. "The blaze has spread through the entire complex of the unit. Fire engines from Bhiwandi, Thane, Kalyan and Ulhasnagar have been rushed to the scene.
Water tankers have also been roped in," the officer added. Personnel of Bhoiwada police station and fire brigade are engaged in the firefighting and rescue operation. So far, no casualty has been reported, the police officer said.
THANE: A major fire broke out at a fabric processing unit at Ajanta Compound in the powerloom town of Bhiwandi in the district this afternoon, police said. "A massive fire broke out at a fabric sizing company located at Dhamankar naka around 1.45 pm today," a police officer from Bhiwandi said. "The blaze has spread through the entire complex of the unit. Fire engines from Bhiwandi, Thane, Kalyan and Ulhasnagar have been rushed to the scene. Water tankers have also been roped in," the officer added. Personnel of Bhoiwada police station and fire brigade are engaged in the firefighting and rescue operation. So far, no casualty has been reported, the police officer said.
By ANI
IMPHAL: The elections fever has gripped Manipur as it gears up for the 11th state assembly polls.
A total of 167 candidates of 17 political parties including the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Naga People's Front, All India Trinamool Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) besides others are in the fray.
Polling for the 60-member legislative assembly will be held in two phases on March 4 and March 8 respectively.
Kicking off the BJPs campaign at Langjing Achouba ground in Imphal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to find a solution to economic blockade that has crippled life in the state for months now if the BJP is voted to power.
BJP government will be formed in Manipur and once we come into power we wont allow blockades to continue in the state. We promise that and we will show how the administration functions, the Prime Minister said.
Ahead of the assembly polls, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi also addressed a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal and said that his party would guide Manipur on the path of development and prosperity.
O. Ibobi Singh is the Chief Minister of Manipur and he will take into consideration the views of the common people and run the administration smoothly and this will benefit the people of Manipur and the state as a whole, Gandhi said.
Over the last six months, several smaller parties have also emerged on the political scene. Irom Sharmilas Peoples Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA) is one of the new parties.
In a multi-cultural society living in hills and valley and in between hill and valley, there will be a very harmonious living together with understanding by connecting their hearts, to solve any problems by bringing real democracy in our state, said activist and PRJA candidate Sharmila.
In wake of the polls, the Election Commission of India launched awareness campaign for the voters in Manipur.
We launched our SVEEP campaign in the form of democracy event. On the event, election commissioner had coined the word Festival of Democracy wherein all the stakeholders should participate in a festive mood either they are electors, political parties, candidates and officials. All of them should take it in the spirit of festival of democracy. That was the term the election commissioner coined it when he visited Manipur, said Vivek Kumar Dewangan, Chief Electoral Officer, Manipur.
The election results will be announced on March 11.
IMPHAL: The elections fever has gripped Manipur as it gears up for the 11th state assembly polls. A total of 167 candidates of 17 political parties including the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Naga People's Front, All India Trinamool Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) besides others are in the fray. Polling for the 60-member legislative assembly will be held in two phases on March 4 and March 8 respectively. Kicking off the BJPs campaign at Langjing Achouba ground in Imphal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to find a solution to economic blockade that has crippled life in the state for months now if the BJP is voted to power. BJP government will be formed in Manipur and once we come into power we wont allow blockades to continue in the state. We promise that and we will show how the administration functions, the Prime Minister said. Ahead of the assembly polls, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi also addressed a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal and said that his party would guide Manipur on the path of development and prosperity. O. Ibobi Singh is the Chief Minister of Manipur and he will take into consideration the views of the common people and run the administration smoothly and this will benefit the people of Manipur and the state as a whole, Gandhi said. Over the last six months, several smaller parties have also emerged on the political scene. Irom Sharmilas Peoples Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA) is one of the new parties. In a multi-cultural society living in hills and valley and in between hill and valley, there will be a very harmonious living together with understanding by connecting their hearts, to solve any problems by bringing real democracy in our state, said activist and PRJA candidate Sharmila. In wake of the polls, the Election Commission of India launched awareness campaign for the voters in Manipur. We launched our SVEEP campaign in the form of democracy event. On the event, election commissioner had coined the word Festival of Democracy wherein all the stakeholders should participate in a festive mood either they are electors, political parties, candidates and officials. All of them should take it in the spirit of festival of democracy. That was the term the election commissioner coined it when he visited Manipur, said Vivek Kumar Dewangan, Chief Electoral Officer, Manipur. The election results will be announced on March 11.
Harpreet Bajwa By
Express News Service
CHANDIGARH: With Punjab awaiting the results of State Assembly polls and the grape wine hinting at a possible retreat of SAD-BJP government in the State, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has taken a bold stand over the defaulters not paying power dues.
In a bid to recover the dues from the defaulters, the PSPCL has cut the electricity supply of many prominent people including Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badals sister-in-law Savinder Kaur, who lives in Chak Fateh Singhwala Village in Bathinda and former chief minister Harcharan Singh Brar's family.
Reportedly, Kaur owes the company a total of Rs 65,000 in power dues. The electricity generating and distributing company of the State government has claimed that the government departments alone owe Rs 730 crore to it till December 31, 2016.
In last two months, the PSPCL recovered only Rs15 crore from the defaulter government departments. Hence, all the defaulter departments were issued notices by the corporation on Tuesday and were warned against not paying their pending electricity bills. The notice also stated that the power connections will be cut by the company, if the issue was not addressed at the earliest.
With over Rs 353 crore pending bills, the Public Health Department tops the list of defaulters while the Irrigation Department is the next with over Rs 100 crore. The Municipal Committee under the Local Bodies Department owes around Rs 54.20 crore and the water works wings of the Municipal Committees have a pending bill of Rs 95.20 crore.
Punjab Police owes Rs 10.53 crore to the corporation, Rural Development and Panchayats Department has a pending bill of Rs 10.99 crore, Deputy Commissioners offices in the State owe around Rs 3.53 crore and Amritsar Central Jail owes Rs 77 lakh.
Sources said that the main defaulters are from the border zone as they owe the corporation a total of Rs 229 crore, followed by South Zone with nearly Rs 204 crore and Central Zone with Rs 31.58 crore. In the last six months of 2016, the outstanding amount went up by Rs 132 crore.
Besides the government departments, private electricity consumers owe the corporation Rs 398 crore, as some 8.28 lakh consumers are defaulters. The corporation has recovered Rs 120 crore dues in January and February this year.
CHANDIGARH: With Punjab awaiting the results of State Assembly polls and the grape wine hinting at a possible retreat of SAD-BJP government in the State, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has taken a bold stand over the defaulters not paying power dues. In a bid to recover the dues from the defaulters, the PSPCL has cut the electricity supply of many prominent people including Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badals sister-in-law Savinder Kaur, who lives in Chak Fateh Singhwala Village in Bathinda and former chief minister Harcharan Singh Brar's family. Reportedly, Kaur owes the company a total of Rs 65,000 in power dues. The electricity generating and distributing company of the State government has claimed that the government departments alone owe Rs 730 crore to it till December 31, 2016. In last two months, the PSPCL recovered only Rs15 crore from the defaulter government departments. Hence, all the defaulter departments were issued notices by the corporation on Tuesday and were warned against not paying their pending electricity bills. The notice also stated that the power connections will be cut by the company, if the issue was not addressed at the earliest. With over Rs 353 crore pending bills, the Public Health Department tops the list of defaulters while the Irrigation Department is the next with over Rs 100 crore. The Municipal Committee under the Local Bodies Department owes around Rs 54.20 crore and the water works wings of the Municipal Committees have a pending bill of Rs 95.20 crore. Punjab Police owes Rs 10.53 crore to the corporation, Rural Development and Panchayats Department has a pending bill of Rs 10.99 crore, Deputy Commissioners offices in the State owe around Rs 3.53 crore and Amritsar Central Jail owes Rs 77 lakh. Sources said that the main defaulters are from the border zone as they owe the corporation a total of Rs 229 crore, followed by South Zone with nearly Rs 204 crore and Central Zone with Rs 31.58 crore. In the last six months of 2016, the outstanding amount went up by Rs 132 crore. Besides the government departments, private electricity consumers owe the corporation Rs 398 crore, as some 8.28 lakh consumers are defaulters. The corporation has recovered Rs 120 crore dues in January and February this year.
By PTI
JODHPUR: A man and his two nephews were apprehended today from Rajasthan's Barmer and Jodhpur districts for allegedly spying for Pakistan's ISI for the past few years.
The three had been on the radar of intelligence agencies after their names emerged during the interrogation of another spy, Haji Khan, who was arrested in February from Jaisalmer district.
According to Army Intelligence sources, those apprehended have been identified as Santosh alias Satram Maheshwari, a Pakistani migrant from Sarupe Ka Tala village in Barmer, and his two nephews Vinod Maheshwari and Sunil Maheshwari, from Ratanada area of Jodhpur.
Maheshwari was active in the illicit liquor trade for the past few years and had later come into contact with Haji Khan who made him the part of the budding spying network in the bordering region.
According to the sources, Maheshwari, who has travelled to Pakistan several times by the Thar Express, has shared information pertaining to the Army, Air Force and BSF including their movements and operations, and maps of the border areas with camping sites of Army units.
Both nephews live in Jodhpur and work in a cloth shop, and are said to have been assisting their uncle in gathering information and sharing it with Pakistani handlers.
All the three are being rigorously interrogated in Jodhpur and will soon be taken to Jaipur for further interrogation.
Agencies have also recovered some documents from Maheshwari and have been trying to extract information about other members of the spying ring and the information, shared by him with the Pakistani handlers so far.
JODHPUR: A man and his two nephews were apprehended today from Rajasthan's Barmer and Jodhpur districts for allegedly spying for Pakistan's ISI for the past few years. The three had been on the radar of intelligence agencies after their names emerged during the interrogation of another spy, Haji Khan, who was arrested in February from Jaisalmer district. According to Army Intelligence sources, those apprehended have been identified as Santosh alias Satram Maheshwari, a Pakistani migrant from Sarupe Ka Tala village in Barmer, and his two nephews Vinod Maheshwari and Sunil Maheshwari, from Ratanada area of Jodhpur. Maheshwari was active in the illicit liquor trade for the past few years and had later come into contact with Haji Khan who made him the part of the budding spying network in the bordering region. According to the sources, Maheshwari, who has travelled to Pakistan several times by the Thar Express, has shared information pertaining to the Army, Air Force and BSF including their movements and operations, and maps of the border areas with camping sites of Army units. Both nephews live in Jodhpur and work in a cloth shop, and are said to have been assisting their uncle in gathering information and sharing it with Pakistani handlers. All the three are being rigorously interrogated in Jodhpur and will soon be taken to Jaipur for further interrogation. Agencies have also recovered some documents from Maheshwari and have been trying to extract information about other members of the spying ring and the information, shared by him with the Pakistani handlers so far.
By PTI
UJJAIN: RSS leader Kundan Chandravat, who had announced a bounty of Rs 1 crore for beheading the Kerala Chief Minister, has retracted his statement after it drew condemnation from various quarters including the Sangh.
Chandravat, RSS Sah Prachar Pramukh in Ujjain, claimed he got some phone calls from Kerala threatening to kill him and was being targetted in social media. "I was pained on the issue of murders of Swayamsevaks and therefore made an emotional statement. I retract it (statement) and express my regret," Chandravat said in a statement late last night. "I also got some phone calls from Kerala in which an unidentified caller threatened to kill me," he claimed.
Chandravat, in a meeting here, had announced the bounty to avenge the killing of RSS workers in Kerala, allegedly by CPI-M workers. His speech sparked an uproar, drawing condemnation from the RSS, the CPI(M) and the Congress yesterday.
In a video, which went viral, Chandravat is purportedly seen saying that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is behind the killing of RSS workers there and he will pay Rs 1 crore to anyone who beheads him and brings his (Vijayan's) head to him. He also claimed that 300 innocent people belonging to the RSS had been killed but the Kerala Chief Minister was turning a blind eye. The RSS was quick to condemn Chandravat's statement, stating the organisation did not believe in violence. "The RSS strongly condemns such statement.
The Sangh does not believe in violence. But we will continue to protest against attacks on our workers in Kerala in a democratic and peaceful manner," RSS national 'Sah Prachar Pramukh' (Joint Chief of Publicity) J Nandakumar had told PTI in Delhi.
Vijayan, however, dismissed the threat to his life, saying such calls would not prevent him from travelling around, while Kerala's ruling CPI(M) and Congress sought the arrest of Chandravat for his outrageous comments. Kerala has been witnessing a series of political clashes between the cadres of BJP-RSS and the ruling CPI(M),especially in the northern Kannur district from where Vijayan hails, for a long time. Both parties have blamed each other for the cycle of violence which has claimed several lives on both sides
UJJAIN: RSS leader Kundan Chandravat, who had announced a bounty of Rs 1 crore for beheading the Kerala Chief Minister, has retracted his statement after it drew condemnation from various quarters including the Sangh. Chandravat, RSS Sah Prachar Pramukh in Ujjain, claimed he got some phone calls from Kerala threatening to kill him and was being targetted in social media. "I was pained on the issue of murders of Swayamsevaks and therefore made an emotional statement. I retract it (statement) and express my regret," Chandravat said in a statement late last night. "I also got some phone calls from Kerala in which an unidentified caller threatened to kill me," he claimed. Chandravat, in a meeting here, had announced the bounty to avenge the killing of RSS workers in Kerala, allegedly by CPI-M workers. His speech sparked an uproar, drawing condemnation from the RSS, the CPI(M) and the Congress yesterday. In a video, which went viral, Chandravat is purportedly seen saying that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is behind the killing of RSS workers there and he will pay Rs 1 crore to anyone who beheads him and brings his (Vijayan's) head to him. He also claimed that 300 innocent people belonging to the RSS had been killed but the Kerala Chief Minister was turning a blind eye. The RSS was quick to condemn Chandravat's statement, stating the organisation did not believe in violence. "The RSS strongly condemns such statement. The Sangh does not believe in violence. But we will continue to protest against attacks on our workers in Kerala in a democratic and peaceful manner," RSS national 'Sah Prachar Pramukh' (Joint Chief of Publicity) J Nandakumar had told PTI in Delhi. Vijayan, however, dismissed the threat to his life, saying such calls would not prevent him from travelling around, while Kerala's ruling CPI(M) and Congress sought the arrest of Chandravat for his outrageous comments. Kerala has been witnessing a series of political clashes between the cadres of BJP-RSS and the ruling CPI(M),especially in the northern Kannur district from where Vijayan hails, for a long time. Both parties have blamed each other for the cycle of violence which has claimed several lives on both sides
By PTI
NEW DELHI: The week-long visit of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama to Arunachal Pradesh next month will take place as scheduled, notwithstanding objections by China.
The Dalai Lama will be in the north eastern state from April 4 to 13 and Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, among others, will meet him there.
During his visit to Tawang bordering China, the spiritual leader will be hosted by the Buddhist Tawang monastery where he will be meeting his followers.
"The Dalai Lama will be a guest of the Arunachal Pradesh government and as a devotee, I will meet him in Tawang," Rijiju, who represents the Arunachal-West Lok Sabha constituency under which Tawang falls, told PTI here.
Peeved over the proposed visit, China today warned India against allowing him to visit Arunachal Pradesh, saying it would cause "serious damage" to the bilateral ties and peace in the "disputed" border region.
"China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said in Beijing.
China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of Tibet and routinely objects to any visit by top leaders, officials and diplomats to the area.
Rijiju, however, said the Dalai Lama is going to visit the state as a religious leader and there is no reason to stop him as his followers are demanding he should come.
Asked about China's objections, Rijiju said the central government is run by a nationalist party which considers the country's interests first.
"We are neither going to be dominated by anyone nor shall we dominate any of our neighbours. But we give prime importance to India's interests," he said, without making any reference to China.
Ignoring China's protests, the government had earlier allowed former US ambassador to India Richard Verma and Tibetan spiritual leader Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje's visit to Arunachal Pradesh last year.
NEW DELHI: The week-long visit of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama to Arunachal Pradesh next month will take place as scheduled, notwithstanding objections by China. The Dalai Lama will be in the north eastern state from April 4 to 13 and Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, among others, will meet him there. During his visit to Tawang bordering China, the spiritual leader will be hosted by the Buddhist Tawang monastery where he will be meeting his followers. "The Dalai Lama will be a guest of the Arunachal Pradesh government and as a devotee, I will meet him in Tawang," Rijiju, who represents the Arunachal-West Lok Sabha constituency under which Tawang falls, told PTI here. Peeved over the proposed visit, China today warned India against allowing him to visit Arunachal Pradesh, saying it would cause "serious damage" to the bilateral ties and peace in the "disputed" border region. "China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said in Beijing. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of Tibet and routinely objects to any visit by top leaders, officials and diplomats to the area. Rijiju, however, said the Dalai Lama is going to visit the state as a religious leader and there is no reason to stop him as his followers are demanding he should come. Asked about China's objections, Rijiju said the central government is run by a nationalist party which considers the country's interests first. "We are neither going to be dominated by anyone nor shall we dominate any of our neighbours. But we give prime importance to India's interests," he said, without making any reference to China. Ignoring China's protests, the government had earlier allowed former US ambassador to India Richard Verma and Tibetan spiritual leader Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje's visit to Arunachal Pradesh last year.
By Express News Service
CHITRAKOOT: Life has been turned upside down for the family of the woman whose alleged rape by minister Gayatri Prajapati has come to dominate the UP poll scene in the most unexpected manner. While Gayatri, a Samajwadi Party candidate in Amethi, went about canvassing despite the supposed manhunt launched by the UP police, the womans children have stayed cooped up in their house in Chitrakoot, shamed by a social media campaign against them.
Their sister lies traumatized by in the AIIMS in Delhi and the mother is away looking after her. Back home, in this extremely backward town, the other three children -- two daughters and one son have been confined to their homes for the past several months.
Ever since the mother of four took on one of the most powerful ministers in the Akhilesh Yadav cabinet, the three children live alone with no elder family member around.
At the entrance of their house sit a three-member police team headed by a daroga (inspector) who keep watch on the street. The only regular visitor is the family servant.
The two girls are pursuing BA, first and second year respectively.
They have not gone to college for several months ever since their mother first approached the DGP to lodge a complaint against Prajapati. Now, after the Supreme Court directed the UP police to register a case against Prajapati, they have not been seen outside,'' a close family member disclosed to New Indian Express.
So scared are the two girls that they have changed their mobile numbers so that only their mother can contact them. ''The situation is that the mother cannot leave the traumatized daughter by herself at AIIMS and come here to take care of the remaining three children. Her husband left her long time ago and she raised the children all by herself,'' says the family member who looked after one of the children when she fell ill.
''She was suffering from typhoid and malaria and I took her to the government hospital for a check-up. Her mother was in Delhi but when she learnt about her condition, she quietly came to Chitrakoot for two days, looked after her and left. Four days later, the Supreme Court directed the police to register a case. The girl recovered by herself. Most of her relatives including my family now stay away from the family. Who knows, we may land in some kind of trouble. Prajapati is a powerful man,'' he said.
The rape victim's only son, a sixth standard student, has not gone to school for several months. It was only after the Supreme Court intervened that policemen have been deployed at the house from February 27.
Last year, the rape victim had started construction of a three-storeyed house. Though construction was underway, it had to be stopped abruptly due to the developments. Many locals say that the woman may not return to Chitrakoot at all. Who will save her here? She is better off in Delhi. I think even the other three children will have to go to Delhi. Staying here would mean a constant threat,'' says a friend of one of the girls, who did not want to be identified.
She recalls that she last met one of the girls almost two months ago, when she had gone to the Ramghat area to make some purchases. ''Even then, it was I who greeted her but she appeared lost in thought. Later, she smiled at me and walked away. They have not been coming to college for long and have missed the notes and exams as well,'' she said.
CHITRAKOOT: Life has been turned upside down for the family of the woman whose alleged rape by minister Gayatri Prajapati has come to dominate the UP poll scene in the most unexpected manner. While Gayatri, a Samajwadi Party candidate in Amethi, went about canvassing despite the supposed manhunt launched by the UP police, the womans children have stayed cooped up in their house in Chitrakoot, shamed by a social media campaign against them. Their sister lies traumatized by in the AIIMS in Delhi and the mother is away looking after her. Back home, in this extremely backward town, the other three children -- two daughters and one son have been confined to their homes for the past several months. Ever since the mother of four took on one of the most powerful ministers in the Akhilesh Yadav cabinet, the three children live alone with no elder family member around. At the entrance of their house sit a three-member police team headed by a daroga (inspector) who keep watch on the street. The only regular visitor is the family servant. The two girls are pursuing BA, first and second year respectively. They have not gone to college for several months ever since their mother first approached the DGP to lodge a complaint against Prajapati. Now, after the Supreme Court directed the UP police to register a case against Prajapati, they have not been seen outside,'' a close family member disclosed to New Indian Express. So scared are the two girls that they have changed their mobile numbers so that only their mother can contact them. ''The situation is that the mother cannot leave the traumatized daughter by herself at AIIMS and come here to take care of the remaining three children. Her husband left her long time ago and she raised the children all by herself,'' says the family member who looked after one of the children when she fell ill. ''She was suffering from typhoid and malaria and I took her to the government hospital for a check-up. Her mother was in Delhi but when she learnt about her condition, she quietly came to Chitrakoot for two days, looked after her and left. Four days later, the Supreme Court directed the police to register a case. The girl recovered by herself. Most of her relatives including my family now stay away from the family. Who knows, we may land in some kind of trouble. Prajapati is a powerful man,'' he said. The rape victim's only son, a sixth standard student, has not gone to school for several months. It was only after the Supreme Court intervened that policemen have been deployed at the house from February 27. Last year, the rape victim had started construction of a three-storeyed house. Though construction was underway, it had to be stopped abruptly due to the developments. Many locals say that the woman may not return to Chitrakoot at all. Who will save her here? She is better off in Delhi. I think even the other three children will have to go to Delhi. Staying here would mean a constant threat,'' says a friend of one of the girls, who did not want to be identified. She recalls that she last met one of the girls almost two months ago, when she had gone to the Ramghat area to make some purchases. ''Even then, it was I who greeted her but she appeared lost in thought. Later, she smiled at me and walked away. They have not been coming to college for long and have missed the notes and exams as well,'' she said.
Balbir Punj By
In the context of what is happening in many universities across the country, let the true upholders of academic freedom come forward to separate the wheat from the chaff.
The first thing is that violence has no place in academia. Issues have to be debated, sometimes with lot of passion. Ideological positions are quite natural, but the right to have a strong ideological stand cannot be exclusive.
The word democratic is being used in our country (and elsewhere too) with abundance. Our self-styled Leftist professors are seen to be admirers of such peoples democratic regimes like North Korea. This is simply misteaching because instead of teaching using established facts, they seek to substitute ideology for facts.
Tons of events are held in our colleges to unleash this pollution.
The problem in our academia is when someone questions this misteaching, the Left lets lose goonda raj on the honest enquirer and silences him. When increasingly large numbers of students (and teachers) begin to question substitution of facts with ideological views, left-wing goondaism claims it is being subjected to violence.
Take Delhi University itself for instance. Was it a mere coincidence that, say in the Economics Department, in the 60s, 70s and 80s, most of the leading teaching staff were of a Left-socialist ideology that eulogised planned economy, public sector ownership of most resources and industries and all other Marxist viewpoints?
There was hardly anyone who questioned basic Marxian thinking because all other viewpoints were suppressed. This despite the fact that Communist China under Deng Xiaoping had begun to eagerly turn to capitalism, even allowing Western capitalist enterprises on its soil, to lift Maos country from the mess left by the Cultural Revolution of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism.
Much the same story is seen in history teaching across the country. The lineup of Leftist professors like Irfan Habib at AMU and Romila Thapar in Delhi ensured that any learned man with a different view of history was debarred. Doctoral theses were scanned to ensure that no other approach to Indian history prevailed in the Indian academia.
For 35 years, West Bengal was under a Marxist regime. The academic freedom people enjoyed there is well known. Those Congress leaders who are so eager to support the Left in JNU, in Hyderabad, Jadavpur and elsewhere should recall how Naxalite student leaders had established a goonda rule in Kolkata. It was Congress leader Siddhartha Shankar Ray who sought to break this circle of violence with a counter violence under the leadership of the Congress organisation Chhatra Parishad. This is not to suggest that violence against the Left-Marxist combine is justified.
Unlike others, Marxists and Communists are committed to violence as their theory urges a proletarian dictatorship. Marx, Lenin, Mao, Che Guevara and all other stars of the Left led through violence and the ultras who have set up their own regimes in parts of Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Jharkhand as well as in Andhra Pradesh are seeking to overthrow elected governments across the country through armed violence.
Even as the much-criticised ABVP is not willing to take the Leftist dictatorship over the Indian academia lying down and is trying to break the Left stranglehold in Delhi, a continuing battle is being fought elsewhere too. As in Bengal, in Kerala, the Leftist students union, the SFI, recently displayed its brutal intolerance against the Kerala Students Union in Law College, Trichur. SFI activists came in a large group, got into the college classrooms even as teaching was in progress. Reports say that even teachers who sought to intervene to prevent this attack were injured. They further say the police, though immediately informed, deliberately took their own time to intervene. Kerala has a Marxist-led State government now.
There could also be intense debate whether Delhis policies in militancy and terror-ridden Kashmir or Manipur are right or not. But that is not the issue here. There is the foreign angle here as militancy and terror are being openly sponsored and funded with weapons supplied by a third partyPakistan.
Can any country allow domestic groups to endorse and even hero-worship such foreign-funded and armed militants and expect to survive as a nation? The battle is surely not for freedom of expression. India has a long tradition of free debate. Barring the dark period of Indira Gandhis emergency, Indians have enjoyed uninterrupted freedom of expression since Independence.
The bogey of free speech in danger is in fact a ruse to camouflage the real agenda to break India. The communists had actively conspired with the departing British and Muslim League to vivisect the country and create a theocratic Pakistan. The Left has no faith in India or her democratic Constitution which mirrors the pluralistic Hindu ethos of this ancient land.
During the Second World War, the communists collaborated with the British against freedom fighters and spied on them. After they left, the communists waged an armed war against the newly-born Indian Republic.
When China attacked India in 1962, the communists sided with the enemy, their ideological kin, and tried to sabotage the internal security of the country. In contrast, RSS volunteers rendered yeoman service at that time of national crisis. The then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had invited the RSS to join the 1963 Republic Day Parade in Delhi to recognise its contribution.
India has since come a long way. And with time, the Left has also changed its slogans and strategies. But its divisive agenda remains unchanged.
(Balbir Punj is a former Rajya Sabha member and Delhi-based commentator on social and political issues. Email: punjbalbir@gmail.com)
In the context of what is happening in many universities across the country, let the true upholders of academic freedom come forward to separate the wheat from the chaff. The first thing is that violence has no place in academia. Issues have to be debated, sometimes with lot of passion. Ideological positions are quite natural, but the right to have a strong ideological stand cannot be exclusive. The word democratic is being used in our country (and elsewhere too) with abundance. Our self-styled Leftist professors are seen to be admirers of such peoples democratic regimes like North Korea. This is simply misteaching because instead of teaching using established facts, they seek to substitute ideology for facts. Tons of events are held in our colleges to unleash this pollution. The problem in our academia is when someone questions this misteaching, the Left lets lose goonda raj on the honest enquirer and silences him. When increasingly large numbers of students (and teachers) begin to question substitution of facts with ideological views, left-wing goondaism claims it is being subjected to violence. Take Delhi University itself for instance. Was it a mere coincidence that, say in the Economics Department, in the 60s, 70s and 80s, most of the leading teaching staff were of a Left-socialist ideology that eulogised planned economy, public sector ownership of most resources and industries and all other Marxist viewpoints? There was hardly anyone who questioned basic Marxian thinking because all other viewpoints were suppressed. This despite the fact that Communist China under Deng Xiaoping had begun to eagerly turn to capitalism, even allowing Western capitalist enterprises on its soil, to lift Maos country from the mess left by the Cultural Revolution of Marxism-Leninism-Maoism. Much the same story is seen in history teaching across the country. The lineup of Leftist professors like Irfan Habib at AMU and Romila Thapar in Delhi ensured that any learned man with a different view of history was debarred. Doctoral theses were scanned to ensure that no other approach to Indian history prevailed in the Indian academia. For 35 years, West Bengal was under a Marxist regime. The academic freedom people enjoyed there is well known. Those Congress leaders who are so eager to support the Left in JNU, in Hyderabad, Jadavpur and elsewhere should recall how Naxalite student leaders had established a goonda rule in Kolkata. It was Congress leader Siddhartha Shankar Ray who sought to break this circle of violence with a counter violence under the leadership of the Congress organisation Chhatra Parishad. This is not to suggest that violence against the Left-Marxist combine is justified. Unlike others, Marxists and Communists are committed to violence as their theory urges a proletarian dictatorship. Marx, Lenin, Mao, Che Guevara and all other stars of the Left led through violence and the ultras who have set up their own regimes in parts of Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Jharkhand as well as in Andhra Pradesh are seeking to overthrow elected governments across the country through armed violence. Even as the much-criticised ABVP is not willing to take the Leftist dictatorship over the Indian academia lying down and is trying to break the Left stranglehold in Delhi, a continuing battle is being fought elsewhere too. As in Bengal, in Kerala, the Leftist students union, the SFI, recently displayed its brutal intolerance against the Kerala Students Union in Law College, Trichur. SFI activists came in a large group, got into the college classrooms even as teaching was in progress. Reports say that even teachers who sought to intervene to prevent this attack were injured. They further say the police, though immediately informed, deliberately took their own time to intervene. Kerala has a Marxist-led State government now. There could also be intense debate whether Delhis policies in militancy and terror-ridden Kashmir or Manipur are right or not. But that is not the issue here. There is the foreign angle here as militancy and terror are being openly sponsored and funded with weapons supplied by a third partyPakistan. Can any country allow domestic groups to endorse and even hero-worship such foreign-funded and armed militants and expect to survive as a nation? The battle is surely not for freedom of expression. India has a long tradition of free debate. Barring the dark period of Indira Gandhis emergency, Indians have enjoyed uninterrupted freedom of expression since Independence. The bogey of free speech in danger is in fact a ruse to camouflage the real agenda to break India. The communists had actively conspired with the departing British and Muslim League to vivisect the country and create a theocratic Pakistan. The Left has no faith in India or her democratic Constitution which mirrors the pluralistic Hindu ethos of this ancient land. During the Second World War, the communists collaborated with the British against freedom fighters and spied on them. After they left, the communists waged an armed war against the newly-born Indian Republic. When China attacked India in 1962, the communists sided with the enemy, their ideological kin, and tried to sabotage the internal security of the country. In contrast, RSS volunteers rendered yeoman service at that time of national crisis. The then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had invited the RSS to join the 1963 Republic Day Parade in Delhi to recognise its contribution. India has since come a long way. And with time, the Left has also changed its slogans and strategies. But its divisive agenda remains unchanged. (Balbir Punj is a former Rajya Sabha member and Delhi-based commentator on social and political issues. Email: punjbalbir@gmail.com)
By Express News Service
BENGALURU: A 28-year-old crew member of Kannada film Danger Zone was hacked to death by a film co-producer and a handful of accomplices after a dispute over distribution rights of the film blew out of proportion. Three others were injured in the attack. The incident occurred during the early hours of Friday at Someshwarnagar in the city.
The deceased has been identified as Manoj The injured are Swaroop, Gopi and Kamal, who were among the crew of Kannada movie 'Danger Zone', which is yet to be released.
The police said the incident took place at around 2.30am at Swagath Camp's office premise which belongs to Swaroop.
Manoj, Swaroop, Kamala and Gopi were having a drink at the Swagath Camp office, when Ramu, co-producer of Danger Zone, came there and quarrelled with Swaroop over the TV distribution rights of the yet-to-be released movie.
Swaroop, who is also one of the co-producers of the movie, had a dispute with Ramu. In a fit of rage, Ramu called five of his friends, who then arrived with lethal weapons and attacked Swaroop and the others.
Manoj, who was employed with Swaroop, died on the spot and the other three were rushed to the hospital, where they are now being treatwd.
Mahalakshmi Layout police have formed a special team to nab prime accused Ramu and his accomplices.
BENGALURU: A 28-year-old crew member of Kannada film Danger Zone was hacked to death by a film co-producer and a handful of accomplices after a dispute over distribution rights of the film blew out of proportion. Three others were injured in the attack. The incident occurred during the early hours of Friday at Someshwarnagar in the city. The deceased has been identified as Manoj The injured are Swaroop, Gopi and Kamal, who were among the crew of Kannada movie 'Danger Zone', which is yet to be released. The police said the incident took place at around 2.30am at Swagath Camp's office premise which belongs to Swaroop. Manoj, Swaroop, Kamala and Gopi were having a drink at the Swagath Camp office, when Ramu, co-producer of Danger Zone, came there and quarrelled with Swaroop over the TV distribution rights of the yet-to-be released movie. Swaroop, who is also one of the co-producers of the movie, had a dispute with Ramu. In a fit of rage, Ramu called five of his friends, who then arrived with lethal weapons and attacked Swaroop and the others. Manoj, who was employed with Swaroop, died on the spot and the other three were rushed to the hospital, where they are now being treatwd. Mahalakshmi Layout police have formed a special team to nab prime accused Ramu and his accomplices.
By Express News Service
KOLLAM: An army officer from Karuvelil, near Ezhukone, is feared dead at Nashik in Maharashtra on Thursday.
The officer, 33-year-old Roy M, serving as a Gunner with the 214 RKT Regiment at Nashik, is said to have been missing from the camp since February 25. Relatives of the officer said the Commanding Officer (CO) with the regiment informed them a body that could be Roys was found outside the camp on Thursday.
Roy M
Around 9 am, the CO informed us a dead body similar to that of Roy has been found. The officer also told us the person has been dead for three days and so the body was being shifted for postmortem, said John, Roys brother.
The family has not received any further communication from the Army.
Roy, who has been with the Indian Army for the past 13 years, was posted to Nashik a year ago. The last time he talked with his wife Fini Roy he said he had made a mistake. He told her he had talked about the harassment by senior officers at the regiment to a local news channel. He was mentally disturbed as he feared the act would cost him his job. Since then we havent heard from him, he said.
A two-member crew (who didnt reveal they were working for the channel) approached Roy and two other officers on February 25. The crew asked the three officers about the life in the Army and about the hardships in the force.
As the conversation was of a casual tone, the three officers opened up. They spoke about the harassment at the hands of their superiors. They revealed they were forced to do menial jobs including laundry, kitchen work and others, John said.
Also read: BSF Jawan Tej Bahadur cries foul, questions PM Narendra Modis desire to eradicate corruption
The officers also told the crew their superior officers wives directed them to do jobs outside their work profile. They did not know their revelations were recorded. When Roy arrived back at the camp, he was horrified to see the visuals of the talk on TV. He got scared, John said. He called his wife around 8.15 pm and briefed her about what had happened. Since then, his phone has been switched off.
Roys family told Express, Fini had submitted a complaint with the Chief Minister, the Kerala Police Chief and Leader of the Opposition seeking urgent intervention from them on March 1. In her petition, Fini said Roy last visited his homeland on December 3 and returned to Nashik on December 28.
She said on February 25, he had called her up earlier than his usual time of 9 pm. A day or two after that a friend of my husbands posted in Rajasthan called us and inquired about him. The friend told us he has not reported for duty and asked whether he had arrived here. I solicit your help and intervention in tracing out my missing husband, Finis petition said.
With Roys suspicious death, the family is now demanding a thorough probe into the circumstances that led to his death.
KOLLAM: An army officer from Karuvelil, near Ezhukone, is feared dead at Nashik in Maharashtra on Thursday. The officer, 33-year-old Roy M, serving as a Gunner with the 214 RKT Regiment at Nashik, is said to have been missing from the camp since February 25. Relatives of the officer said the Commanding Officer (CO) with the regiment informed them a body that could be Roys was found outside the camp on Thursday. Roy MAround 9 am, the CO informed us a dead body similar to that of Roy has been found. The officer also told us the person has been dead for three days and so the body was being shifted for postmortem, said John, Roys brother. The family has not received any further communication from the Army. Roy, who has been with the Indian Army for the past 13 years, was posted to Nashik a year ago. The last time he talked with his wife Fini Roy he said he had made a mistake. He told her he had talked about the harassment by senior officers at the regiment to a local news channel. He was mentally disturbed as he feared the act would cost him his job. Since then we havent heard from him, he said. A two-member crew (who didnt reveal they were working for the channel) approached Roy and two other officers on February 25. The crew asked the three officers about the life in the Army and about the hardships in the force. As the conversation was of a casual tone, the three officers opened up. They spoke about the harassment at the hands of their superiors. They revealed they were forced to do menial jobs including laundry, kitchen work and others, John said. Also read: BSF Jawan Tej Bahadur cries foul, questions PM Narendra Modis desire to eradicate corruption The officers also told the crew their superior officers wives directed them to do jobs outside their work profile. They did not know their revelations were recorded. When Roy arrived back at the camp, he was horrified to see the visuals of the talk on TV. He got scared, John said. He called his wife around 8.15 pm and briefed her about what had happened. Since then, his phone has been switched off. Roys family told Express, Fini had submitted a complaint with the Chief Minister, the Kerala Police Chief and Leader of the Opposition seeking urgent intervention from them on March 1. In her petition, Fini said Roy last visited his homeland on December 3 and returned to Nashik on December 28. She said on February 25, he had called her up earlier than his usual time of 9 pm. A day or two after that a friend of my husbands posted in Rajasthan called us and inquired about him. The friend told us he has not reported for duty and asked whether he had arrived here. I solicit your help and intervention in tracing out my missing husband, Finis petition said. With Roys suspicious death, the family is now demanding a thorough probe into the circumstances that led to his death.
By Express News Service
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Finance Minister Thomas Isaac's office with the media when the minister was just halfway into his speech, leading to a major row in the Assembly on Thursday.
When the Budget highlights reached the public domain through social media, the Opposition seized the opportunity and disrupted the Budget speech. Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala alleged that
the Budget had lost its sanctity.
Battered by the Opposition onslaught, Isaac went on the defensive and skipped major portions of the speech. The minister wrapped up his speech within 10 minutes after the ruckus began.
The UDF by then boycotted the Budget speech and walked out of the House. Later, addressing a news conference, Chennithala demanded the Finance Minister's resignation.
The e-mail was sent to the media at 10.26, exactly an hour and 26 minutes after the Finance Minister began his speech.
This, at a time when Isaac was yet to announce major budgetary proposals in the infrastructure domain and also the plans to revive state-run KSRTC.
Opposition MLAs, who obtained copies of the highlights, taunted the Finance Minister by reading out portions of what the Finance Minister was about to say in his speech. Even though Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Finance Minister Thomas Isaac tried to calm the Opposition by stating that the matter would be inquired into, it failed to pacify them.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Finance Minister Thomas Isaac's office with the media when the minister was just halfway into his speech, leading to a major row in the Assembly on Thursday. When the Budget highlights reached the public domain through social media, the Opposition seized the opportunity and disrupted the Budget speech. Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala alleged that the Budget had lost its sanctity. Battered by the Opposition onslaught, Isaac went on the defensive and skipped major portions of the speech. The minister wrapped up his speech within 10 minutes after the ruckus began. The UDF by then boycotted the Budget speech and walked out of the House. Later, addressing a news conference, Chennithala demanded the Finance Minister's resignation. The e-mail was sent to the media at 10.26, exactly an hour and 26 minutes after the Finance Minister began his speech. This, at a time when Isaac was yet to announce major budgetary proposals in the infrastructure domain and also the plans to revive state-run KSRTC. Opposition MLAs, who obtained copies of the highlights, taunted the Finance Minister by reading out portions of what the Finance Minister was about to say in his speech. Even though Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Finance Minister Thomas Isaac tried to calm the Opposition by stating that the matter would be inquired into, it failed to pacify them.
By ANI
KOZHIKODE: A day after a bomb was hurled at a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) office in Kallachy near Nadapuram, a Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) office at Vishnumangalam was put on fire by few unidentified people.
No casualty has been reported so far in the incident that took place last night.
In the attack at the RSS office, three RSS workers had sustained injuries. They were rushed to the Government Medical College in Kozhikode.
The attacks come after RSS leader Kundan Chandrawat offered Rs. 1 crore to anyone who would bring Kerala Chief Minister P. Vijayan's head to him.
"If anyone beheads the Kerala CM, who is the murderer of RSS activists, and brings his head I will bequeath my property worth more than Rs. one crore to him," he had said.
KOZHIKODE: A day after a bomb was hurled at a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) office in Kallachy near Nadapuram, a Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) office at Vishnumangalam was put on fire by few unidentified people. No casualty has been reported so far in the incident that took place last night. In the attack at the RSS office, three RSS workers had sustained injuries. They were rushed to the Government Medical College in Kozhikode. The attacks come after RSS leader Kundan Chandrawat offered Rs. 1 crore to anyone who would bring Kerala Chief Minister P. Vijayan's head to him. "If anyone beheads the Kerala CM, who is the murderer of RSS activists, and brings his head I will bequeath my property worth more than Rs. one crore to him," he had said.
By Associated Press
LONDON: The president of one of Britain's biggest business lobby groups is to warn of the economic damage the country would suffer if it leaves the European Union without securing a wide-ranging trade deal with the bloc.
In prepared remarks for a speech due later Thursday, Confederation of British Industry President Paul Drechsler will say that a "'no deal' scenario would open a Pandora's Box of economic consequences."
If Britain leaves the EU without a deal, it would have to rely on so-called World Trade Organization rules a set of tariffs that would immediately raise the cost of trade for both sides but impact Britain more as its relative dependence on EU trade is higher than the EU's on Britain.
"Here in the U.K. and across the continent firms are worried about this 'worst-case scenario'," Drechsler is due to say. "Some are getting ready for it to reduce economic damage. Some won't prepare because they're hoping for a deal. But in reality many firms can't prepare because the cost of change is simply too high to even consider it."
Under WTO rules, Britain would not be able to trade with its former EU partners on terms that would be any more advantageous than other countries that do not have trade agreements with the EU, such as the United States. As a result, the EU would impose tariffs on an estimated 15,000 goods, in no uniform way: some British exports, like pharmaceuticals, would face no extra charge but the large majority would.
Goods coming into Britain from the EU would also be subject to tariffs, suggesting both sides would be inclined to agree on a new trade deal. It's not just about tariffs, but also standards and regulations. The EU has limits on foods containing genetically-modified products, for example.
Britain, Drechsler will say, would face tariffs on 90 percent of its EU exports by value and a raft of new regulatory hurdles. As a member of the 28-country bloc, British firms don't have to pay any tariffs to trade in the EU and adhere to EU regulations.
Drechsler, whose organization comprises 190,000 businesses of all sizes and sectors, is also set to tell the audience of business leaders that the CBI is engaging closely with business groups throughout the EU to "work towards a comprehensive agreement that is in all parties' interests."
British Prime Minister Theresa May is expected to start the official talks on leaving the EU by the end of this month. Triggering the so-called Article 50 of the EU Treaty will begin two years of negotiations on the terms of the divorce. May hopes a new trade deal with the EU can be struck, but there are doubts as free trade deals typically take years to negotiate.
"Right now, it feels like we're just reaching the top of the Article 50 roller-coaster," Drechsler will say. "Any minute now, maybe next week, maybe the week after that, we'll suddenly drop into the twists and turns of negotiations."
Drechsler is also set to describe those advocating Britain walking away without a deal as "not only wrong but irresponsible."
"Imagine you're a small cosmetics firm in Stockport and shops in France sell your products. No deal? Without an EU office it's illegal for those French shops to sell your products. A loss for you and for them."
Many Brexit advocates argue there's nothing wrong with the WTO trade option, noting that Britain could get a boost from new trade deals with non-EU countries. They also say the WTO option would be better than a transitional deal that would extend the current uncertainty.
Also, Brexit supporters note that the fall in the value of the pound provides a cushion by making British exports more price-competitive, even with new tariffs.
LONDON: The president of one of Britain's biggest business lobby groups is to warn of the economic damage the country would suffer if it leaves the European Union without securing a wide-ranging trade deal with the bloc. In prepared remarks for a speech due later Thursday, Confederation of British Industry President Paul Drechsler will say that a "'no deal' scenario would open a Pandora's Box of economic consequences." If Britain leaves the EU without a deal, it would have to rely on so-called World Trade Organization rules a set of tariffs that would immediately raise the cost of trade for both sides but impact Britain more as its relative dependence on EU trade is higher than the EU's on Britain. "Here in the U.K. and across the continent firms are worried about this 'worst-case scenario'," Drechsler is due to say. "Some are getting ready for it to reduce economic damage. Some won't prepare because they're hoping for a deal. But in reality many firms can't prepare because the cost of change is simply too high to even consider it." Under WTO rules, Britain would not be able to trade with its former EU partners on terms that would be any more advantageous than other countries that do not have trade agreements with the EU, such as the United States. As a result, the EU would impose tariffs on an estimated 15,000 goods, in no uniform way: some British exports, like pharmaceuticals, would face no extra charge but the large majority would. Goods coming into Britain from the EU would also be subject to tariffs, suggesting both sides would be inclined to agree on a new trade deal. It's not just about tariffs, but also standards and regulations. The EU has limits on foods containing genetically-modified products, for example. Britain, Drechsler will say, would face tariffs on 90 percent of its EU exports by value and a raft of new regulatory hurdles. As a member of the 28-country bloc, British firms don't have to pay any tariffs to trade in the EU and adhere to EU regulations. Drechsler, whose organization comprises 190,000 businesses of all sizes and sectors, is also set to tell the audience of business leaders that the CBI is engaging closely with business groups throughout the EU to "work towards a comprehensive agreement that is in all parties' interests." British Prime Minister Theresa May is expected to start the official talks on leaving the EU by the end of this month. Triggering the so-called Article 50 of the EU Treaty will begin two years of negotiations on the terms of the divorce. May hopes a new trade deal with the EU can be struck, but there are doubts as free trade deals typically take years to negotiate. "Right now, it feels like we're just reaching the top of the Article 50 roller-coaster," Drechsler will say. "Any minute now, maybe next week, maybe the week after that, we'll suddenly drop into the twists and turns of negotiations." Drechsler is also set to describe those advocating Britain walking away without a deal as "not only wrong but irresponsible." "Imagine you're a small cosmetics firm in Stockport and shops in France sell your products. No deal? Without an EU office it's illegal for those French shops to sell your products. A loss for you and for them." Many Brexit advocates argue there's nothing wrong with the WTO trade option, noting that Britain could get a boost from new trade deals with non-EU countries. They also say the WTO option would be better than a transitional deal that would extend the current uncertainty. Also, Brexit supporters note that the fall in the value of the pound provides a cushion by making British exports more price-competitive, even with new tariffs.
By PTI
DHAKA: Bangladesh police today said they have arrested the 'spiritual leader' of a banned Islamist outfit blamed for the country's worst terror attack at a cafe here as they intensified a crackdown on militants. Maulana Abul Kashem was arrested from a hideout in the capital last night.
Officials of the police's elite counterterrorism and transnational crime unit said Kashem was the spiritual leader of the reconstituted Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (neo-JMB), which is believed to be inclined to the Islamic State terror group. "He (Kashem) was a madrassa teacher in (northwestern) Joypurhat...," Monirul Islam, the chief of the unit, told reporters.
Islam said that the neo-JMB recruited Kashem to inspire its operatives to become extremists. Kashem's arrest comes after a leading neo-JMB operative was killed in police custody in northwestern Bogra while another, who supplied weapons for the July 1 cafe attack, was arrested in the capital. Islam said their investigations found that nearly 30 militants were directly linked to the attack on the Holey Artisan restaurant in Dhaka last year, killing 22 people, including an Indian girl.
Three top leaders of the outfit were subsequently killed in gunfights with police. Bangladesh witnessed a spate of attacks on secular activists, foreigners and religious minorities since 2013. The country launched a massive crackdown on militants specially after the Dhaka cafe attack.
DHAKA: Bangladesh police today said they have arrested the 'spiritual leader' of a banned Islamist outfit blamed for the country's worst terror attack at a cafe here as they intensified a crackdown on militants. Maulana Abul Kashem was arrested from a hideout in the capital last night. Officials of the police's elite counterterrorism and transnational crime unit said Kashem was the spiritual leader of the reconstituted Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (neo-JMB), which is believed to be inclined to the Islamic State terror group. "He (Kashem) was a madrassa teacher in (northwestern) Joypurhat...," Monirul Islam, the chief of the unit, told reporters. Islam said that the neo-JMB recruited Kashem to inspire its operatives to become extremists. Kashem's arrest comes after a leading neo-JMB operative was killed in police custody in northwestern Bogra while another, who supplied weapons for the July 1 cafe attack, was arrested in the capital. Islam said their investigations found that nearly 30 militants were directly linked to the attack on the Holey Artisan restaurant in Dhaka last year, killing 22 people, including an Indian girl. Three top leaders of the outfit were subsequently killed in gunfights with police. Bangladesh witnessed a spate of attacks on secular activists, foreigners and religious minorities since 2013. The country launched a massive crackdown on militants specially after the Dhaka cafe attack.
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: India on Friday reasserted its rights to host revered Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in Arunachal Pradesh, even as China warned that it would cause serious damage to bilateral ties as it claims that the area is a disputed border region.
A Ministry of External Affairs official, on condition of anonymity, insisted that there has been no change in the governments position that His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a respected and revered spiritual leader and as an honoured guest was free to travel to any part of India.
The Dalai Lama is scheduled to visit Tawang, Itanagar and eastern districts of Arunachal Pradesh from April 4 to 13 this year.
He has been in India since his escape in 1959 much to the chagrin of China, which continues to term him as wolf in monks clothing.
According to Buddhist traditions, the soul of a senior lama is reincarnated following his death. Even as the Dalai Lama has hinted at doing away with the title after his death, the officially atheist Communist leaders of China insist on appointing his successor in the light of the right inherited from Chinas emperors.
India, so far, has been hesitant in using the Tibetan spiritual leader to send a strong message to China.
However, Beijing has launched a continuous tirade against Indias interests energy security through entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and crippling Masood Azhars terror network by getting him into the UNs proscribed terrorist list.
The Dalai Lama will be meeting Indian government officials, including Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, during his visit to Tawang, reflecting its official backing. Rijiju himself hails from Arunachal Pradesh.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said: China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai to visit Arunachal Pradesh. China is strongly opposed to the Dalai visiting disputed areas.
Tawang the town on the IndiaChina border has been the bone of contention between the two countries. Beijing had earlier objected to the Dalai Lamas visit to the town in 2009.
Tawang, which Beijing claims is a part of southern China, has links to the history between the two countries as it was through its passes that the Dalai Lama crossed over to India.
NEW DELHI: India on Friday reasserted its rights to host revered Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in Arunachal Pradesh, even as China warned that it would cause serious damage to bilateral ties as it claims that the area is a disputed border region. A Ministry of External Affairs official, on condition of anonymity, insisted that there has been no change in the governments position that His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a respected and revered spiritual leader and as an honoured guest was free to travel to any part of India. The Dalai Lama is scheduled to visit Tawang, Itanagar and eastern districts of Arunachal Pradesh from April 4 to 13 this year. He has been in India since his escape in 1959 much to the chagrin of China, which continues to term him as wolf in monks clothing. According to Buddhist traditions, the soul of a senior lama is reincarnated following his death. Even as the Dalai Lama has hinted at doing away with the title after his death, the officially atheist Communist leaders of China insist on appointing his successor in the light of the right inherited from Chinas emperors. India, so far, has been hesitant in using the Tibetan spiritual leader to send a strong message to China. However, Beijing has launched a continuous tirade against Indias interests energy security through entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and crippling Masood Azhars terror network by getting him into the UNs proscribed terrorist list. The Dalai Lama will be meeting Indian government officials, including Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, during his visit to Tawang, reflecting its official backing. Rijiju himself hails from Arunachal Pradesh. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said: China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai to visit Arunachal Pradesh. China is strongly opposed to the Dalai visiting disputed areas. Tawang the town on the IndiaChina border has been the bone of contention between the two countries. Beijing had earlier objected to the Dalai Lamas visit to the town in 2009. Tawang, which Beijing claims is a part of southern China, has links to the history between the two countries as it was through its passes that the Dalai Lama crossed over to India.
By PTI
BEIJING: The border dispute between China and India can be resolved if New Delhi accepts Beijing's claim over strategically vital Tawang region in Arunachal Pradesh, China's former top diplomat has said, but Indian officials dismissed it as neither practical nor possible.
Dai Bingguo, who served as the China's boundary negotiator with India from 2003 to 2013, told Chinese media, "If the Indian side takes care of China's concerns in the eastern sector of their border, the Chinese side will respond accordingly and address India's concerns elsewhere."
Elaborating China's stand, Dai who conducted border talks with five Indian Special Representatives starting with Brajesh Mishra in 2003 said, "The disputed territory in the eastern sector of the China-India boundary, including Tawang, is inalienable from China's Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction."
He said that colonial British government which drew the "McMahon Line" accepted Beijing's claim on Tawang.
China has rejected "McMahon Line" in India's case but accepted it in settling boundary dispute with Myanmar.
"Even British colonialists who drew the illegal McMahon Line respected Chinas jurisdiction over Tawang and admitted that Tawang was part of China's Tibet," Dai told the China-India Dialogue magazine.
Dai was China's top diplomat and held the post of State Councillor in the previous Hu Jintao administration.
His interview was published by the magazine in its January edition ahead of India-China Strategic Dialogue held here last month co-chaired by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar. Dai, regarded as a wily negotiator, did not specify where China is willing to make a concession along the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control (LAC).
He also did not specify this in the book he wrote in Chinese language on the border talks. Indian officials, however, said Dai's proposal is neither practical nor possible for India to accept considering that Tawang is an integral part of Arunachal Pradesh and has sent representatives to Parliament in every election since 1950.
In his interview, Dai said essential nature of the China-India boundary question is the "need to correct wrongs" made by colonialists and to restore fairness and justice.
"For historical reasons, India now controls the majority of the disputed territory. The boundary question was not created by China or India, so we shouldnt be inheriting it and letting the ghosts of colonialism continue to haunt our bilateral relations," he said.
Though published afresh in Chinese media, Beijing has been making such a demand for concession for long.
Former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon who was India's Special Representative for border talks and held several rounds of talks with Dai until the present NSA Ajit Doval took over in 2014, has mentioned the issue in his recently released book "Choices: Inside the Making of Indias Foreign Policy". While China demanded concessions in the Western sector before the 1962 war, it changed the line to East after 1980s.
"Chinese officials began saying in the 1980s that Beijing would compromise only if India made major adjustments first, adding that once India indicated concessions in the East, China would indicate concessions in the West," Menon wrote in the book.
"In 1985, China specified that the concession it was seeking in the East was Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, something that any government of India would find difficult to accept, as this was settled area that had sent representatives to every Indian Parliament since 1950," he wrote.
"The Indian Supreme Court also held in the Berubari case in 1956 that the government could not cede sovereign territory to another government without a constitutional amendment, though it could made adjustments and rectifications in the boundaries of India," Menon wrote in the book, highlighting India's problem in accepting China's demand.
Apparently China's stand on the border settlement was different earlier lacking consistency. Menon wrote that former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai during his visit to India in 1960 "suggested that China might recognise the McMahon line boundary in the East in return to India accepting Chinas claim in the West" to provide strategic depth for China along the Aksai Chin road between Xinjiang and Tibet, which is now China National Highway 219.
Menon said India for the first time had Chinese troops at the border only after the People's Liberation of Army (PLA) took control of Tibet.
After the occupation of Aksai Chin area in the 1962 war, China's stand reported to have changed. While China says the border dispute covers Arunachal Pradesh which it claims as Southern Tibet, India asserts that the dispute covered Aksai Chin area.
BEIJING: The border dispute between China and India can be resolved if New Delhi accepts Beijing's claim over strategically vital Tawang region in Arunachal Pradesh, China's former top diplomat has said, but Indian officials dismissed it as neither practical nor possible. Dai Bingguo, who served as the China's boundary negotiator with India from 2003 to 2013, told Chinese media, "If the Indian side takes care of China's concerns in the eastern sector of their border, the Chinese side will respond accordingly and address India's concerns elsewhere." Elaborating China's stand, Dai who conducted border talks with five Indian Special Representatives starting with Brajesh Mishra in 2003 said, "The disputed territory in the eastern sector of the China-India boundary, including Tawang, is inalienable from China's Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction." He said that colonial British government which drew the "McMahon Line" accepted Beijing's claim on Tawang. China has rejected "McMahon Line" in India's case but accepted it in settling boundary dispute with Myanmar. "Even British colonialists who drew the illegal McMahon Line respected Chinas jurisdiction over Tawang and admitted that Tawang was part of China's Tibet," Dai told the China-India Dialogue magazine. Dai was China's top diplomat and held the post of State Councillor in the previous Hu Jintao administration. His interview was published by the magazine in its January edition ahead of India-China Strategic Dialogue held here last month co-chaired by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar. Dai, regarded as a wily negotiator, did not specify where China is willing to make a concession along the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control (LAC). He also did not specify this in the book he wrote in Chinese language on the border talks. Indian officials, however, said Dai's proposal is neither practical nor possible for India to accept considering that Tawang is an integral part of Arunachal Pradesh and has sent representatives to Parliament in every election since 1950. In his interview, Dai said essential nature of the China-India boundary question is the "need to correct wrongs" made by colonialists and to restore fairness and justice. "For historical reasons, India now controls the majority of the disputed territory. The boundary question was not created by China or India, so we shouldnt be inheriting it and letting the ghosts of colonialism continue to haunt our bilateral relations," he said. Though published afresh in Chinese media, Beijing has been making such a demand for concession for long. Former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon who was India's Special Representative for border talks and held several rounds of talks with Dai until the present NSA Ajit Doval took over in 2014, has mentioned the issue in his recently released book "Choices: Inside the Making of Indias Foreign Policy". While China demanded concessions in the Western sector before the 1962 war, it changed the line to East after 1980s. "Chinese officials began saying in the 1980s that Beijing would compromise only if India made major adjustments first, adding that once India indicated concessions in the East, China would indicate concessions in the West," Menon wrote in the book. "In 1985, China specified that the concession it was seeking in the East was Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, something that any government of India would find difficult to accept, as this was settled area that had sent representatives to every Indian Parliament since 1950," he wrote. "The Indian Supreme Court also held in the Berubari case in 1956 that the government could not cede sovereign territory to another government without a constitutional amendment, though it could made adjustments and rectifications in the boundaries of India," Menon wrote in the book, highlighting India's problem in accepting China's demand. Apparently China's stand on the border settlement was different earlier lacking consistency. Menon wrote that former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai during his visit to India in 1960 "suggested that China might recognise the McMahon line boundary in the East in return to India accepting Chinas claim in the West" to provide strategic depth for China along the Aksai Chin road between Xinjiang and Tibet, which is now China National Highway 219. Menon said India for the first time had Chinese troops at the border only after the People's Liberation of Army (PLA) took control of Tibet. After the occupation of Aksai Chin area in the 1962 war, China's stand reported to have changed. While China says the border dispute covers Arunachal Pradesh which it claims as Southern Tibet, India asserts that the dispute covered Aksai Chin area.
By PTI
COLOMBO: Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has said he had the guts to dismiss a UN demand seeking foreign judges to probe the alleged war crimes committed during the conflict with the LTTE. "I have shown the strength of my backbone," Sirisena said while addressing the executive committee meeting of his Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) held here yesterday.
His comments are being seen as a response to criticism by his own SLFP party. "Two weeks ago, the UN Human Rights chief had said Sri Lanka must have international judges in the accountability mechanism.
The following day, I had the guts to dismiss it," he said. Sirisena's unity government with the SLFP's arch rival United National Party (UNP) led by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has rejected the United Nations Human Rights Council's (UNHRC) call for a hybrid mechanism with local and foreign judges to probe the allegations of war crimes during the last phase of the war with the LTTE.
The Tamil minority, however, insists on foreign judges, claiming that the local judicial system remains far from trustworthy to deliver justice to the large numbers of Tamil victims of the conflict. Sirisena's comments came as Sri Lanka braced to ask for more time at the ongoing UNHRC session in Geneva to implement the 2015 resolution which stressed on the international hybrid mechanism.
Meanwhile, the Tamil National Alliance parliamentarians today signed a petition urging disallowing of more time to the Sri Lankan government on the resolution implementation. Opposition leader M A Sumanthiran earlier this week said that Sri Lanka must be given more time, not to dodge implementation but to commit for implementation of each one of the obligations. President Sirisena's SLFP is divided between him and former president Mahinda Rajapaksa whose nearly a decade-long rule was ended by Sirisena in 2015.
The Rajapaksa backers calling themselves the Joint Opposition stayed away from yesterday's SLFP parley despite invitations being extended to them, the party said. They accuse Sirisena of betraying the war victory achieved by Rajapaksa by Sirisena's policy of give in. Last month, Sri Lanka said it needed more time to probe the alleged war crimes committed during the civil war, even as it asserted that the proposed mechanism to deliver justice to the victims would be homegrown and not a copy of the South African model. According to the UN figures, up to 40,000 civilians were killed by the security forces during Rajapaksa's regime that brought an end to nearly three-decades long civil war in Sri Lanka with the defeat of LTTE in 2009.
COLOMBO: Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has said he had the guts to dismiss a UN demand seeking foreign judges to probe the alleged war crimes committed during the conflict with the LTTE. "I have shown the strength of my backbone," Sirisena said while addressing the executive committee meeting of his Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) held here yesterday. His comments are being seen as a response to criticism by his own SLFP party. "Two weeks ago, the UN Human Rights chief had said Sri Lanka must have international judges in the accountability mechanism. The following day, I had the guts to dismiss it," he said. Sirisena's unity government with the SLFP's arch rival United National Party (UNP) led by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has rejected the United Nations Human Rights Council's (UNHRC) call for a hybrid mechanism with local and foreign judges to probe the allegations of war crimes during the last phase of the war with the LTTE. The Tamil minority, however, insists on foreign judges, claiming that the local judicial system remains far from trustworthy to deliver justice to the large numbers of Tamil victims of the conflict. Sirisena's comments came as Sri Lanka braced to ask for more time at the ongoing UNHRC session in Geneva to implement the 2015 resolution which stressed on the international hybrid mechanism. Meanwhile, the Tamil National Alliance parliamentarians today signed a petition urging disallowing of more time to the Sri Lankan government on the resolution implementation. Opposition leader M A Sumanthiran earlier this week said that Sri Lanka must be given more time, not to dodge implementation but to commit for implementation of each one of the obligations. President Sirisena's SLFP is divided between him and former president Mahinda Rajapaksa whose nearly a decade-long rule was ended by Sirisena in 2015. The Rajapaksa backers calling themselves the Joint Opposition stayed away from yesterday's SLFP parley despite invitations being extended to them, the party said. They accuse Sirisena of betraying the war victory achieved by Rajapaksa by Sirisena's policy of give in. Last month, Sri Lanka said it needed more time to probe the alleged war crimes committed during the civil war, even as it asserted that the proposed mechanism to deliver justice to the victims would be homegrown and not a copy of the South African model. According to the UN figures, up to 40,000 civilians were killed by the security forces during Rajapaksa's regime that brought an end to nearly three-decades long civil war in Sri Lanka with the defeat of LTTE in 2009.
By AFP
GENEVA: More than a week of UN-sponsored peace talks ended in Geneva on Friday, the main opposition group said, calling the results "more positive" than previous rounds.
"We are closing this round without (a) clear result... but I can say this time was more positive," Nasr al-Hariri, delegation chief for the High Negotiating Committee (HNC), told reporters.
"It was first time we discussed in an acceptable depth the issues of the future of Syria and political transition," he added after the talks, the fourth mediated by UN envoy Staffan de Mistura.
As in previous rounds, Syrian regime and opposition negotiators did not meet face-to-face, with de Mistura shuttling between the delegations.
The talks were focussed on the agenda, rather than getting into the substance of negotiations, with three main "baskets" or areas of discussion: governance, the constitution and elections.
The Syrian regime has tried to get counter-terrorism onto the agenda, while the opposition wants more focus on political transition, specifically the fate of President Bashar al-Assad.
"The international silence must come to an end. The international community must speak out .. to put an end to the ongoing massacres that have been taking place in Syria for six years now," said al-Hariri.
The Geneva negotiations, the first since last April, are aimed at ending a conflict that began in March 2011 with protests against Assad. Its seventh year begins on March 15.
Since then more than 310,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands have fled the country, fuelling instability in neighbouring countries and creating Europe's biggest migrant crisis since World War II.
The warring Syrian sides have been joined in Geneva by envoys of key parties including notably Russia, a major ally of Damascus.
GENEVA: More than a week of UN-sponsored peace talks ended in Geneva on Friday, the main opposition group said, calling the results "more positive" than previous rounds. "We are closing this round without (a) clear result... but I can say this time was more positive," Nasr al-Hariri, delegation chief for the High Negotiating Committee (HNC), told reporters. "It was first time we discussed in an acceptable depth the issues of the future of Syria and political transition," he added after the talks, the fourth mediated by UN envoy Staffan de Mistura. As in previous rounds, Syrian regime and opposition negotiators did not meet face-to-face, with de Mistura shuttling between the delegations. The talks were focussed on the agenda, rather than getting into the substance of negotiations, with three main "baskets" or areas of discussion: governance, the constitution and elections. The Syrian regime has tried to get counter-terrorism onto the agenda, while the opposition wants more focus on political transition, specifically the fate of President Bashar al-Assad. "The international silence must come to an end. The international community must speak out .. to put an end to the ongoing massacres that have been taking place in Syria for six years now," said al-Hariri. The Geneva negotiations, the first since last April, are aimed at ending a conflict that began in March 2011 with protests against Assad. Its seventh year begins on March 15. Since then more than 310,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands have fled the country, fuelling instability in neighbouring countries and creating Europe's biggest migrant crisis since World War II. The warring Syrian sides have been joined in Geneva by envoys of key parties including notably Russia, a major ally of Damascus.
By AFP
ISTANBUL: Top Turkish and German diplomats agreed Friday to meet next week as their nations row over the cancellation of rallies in Germany for an upcoming vote in Turkey.
Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and his German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel, agreed during a phone conversation to meet on Wednesday, according to a high-level Turkish official.
State-run Anadolu news agency reported the meeting would take place in Germany. Tensions are high over rallies for a referendum on whether to expand President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's powers.
ISTANBUL: Top Turkish and German diplomats agreed Friday to meet next week as their nations row over the cancellation of rallies in Germany for an upcoming vote in Turkey. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and his German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel, agreed during a phone conversation to meet on Wednesday, according to a high-level Turkish official. State-run Anadolu news agency reported the meeting would take place in Germany. Tensions are high over rallies for a referendum on whether to expand President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's powers.
By Associated Press
WARSAW: A Polish member of the European Parliament has launched another sexist tirade, calling it a "20th-century stereotype that women have the same intellectual potential as men," and that the stereotype "must be destroyed because it is not true."
Janusz Korwin-Mikke's insults on Friday in Warsaw came two days after he told the European Parliament that "women must earn less than men because they are weaker, they are smaller, they are less intelligent."
The president of the Parliament opened an investigation Thursday into the comments, for which Korwin-Mikke could face sanctions such as a reprimand, a fine or a temporary suspension.
His latest blast came after he was challenged by female lawmakers during a visit to the Polish parliament in Warsaw. Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, from the Modern party, accused him of offending women and said she would not allow him to do it again.
"There are more women than men in Poland, we're better educated, and I will not let you offend Polish women, European women and women all over the world. It's a disgrace," she told him.
Korwin-Mikke has a history of getting attention for outrageous comments, including comparing the European Union to the Third Reich.
In 2015, he raised his arm in a Nazi salute to make a political point in the European Parliament, the EU's elected legislative arm, forcing the centrist government in Warsaw at the time to apologize and express shame for his behavior.
Korwin-Mikke heads a small party which won just under 5 percent of the vote in Poland's last parliamentary election in 2015, failing to clear the 5 percent threshold to get any seats.
WARSAW: A Polish member of the European Parliament has launched another sexist tirade, calling it a "20th-century stereotype that women have the same intellectual potential as men," and that the stereotype "must be destroyed because it is not true." Janusz Korwin-Mikke's insults on Friday in Warsaw came two days after he told the European Parliament that "women must earn less than men because they are weaker, they are smaller, they are less intelligent." The president of the Parliament opened an investigation Thursday into the comments, for which Korwin-Mikke could face sanctions such as a reprimand, a fine or a temporary suspension. His latest blast came after he was challenged by female lawmakers during a visit to the Polish parliament in Warsaw. Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, from the Modern party, accused him of offending women and said she would not allow him to do it again. "There are more women than men in Poland, we're better educated, and I will not let you offend Polish women, European women and women all over the world. It's a disgrace," she told him. Korwin-Mikke has a history of getting attention for outrageous comments, including comparing the European Union to the Third Reich. In 2015, he raised his arm in a Nazi salute to make a political point in the European Parliament, the EU's elected legislative arm, forcing the centrist government in Warsaw at the time to apologize and express shame for his behavior. Korwin-Mikke heads a small party which won just under 5 percent of the vote in Poland's last parliamentary election in 2015, failing to clear the 5 percent threshold to get any seats.
Khan of Kalat seeks India's support for freedom of Balochs
London [UK], Mar. 2 : Amir Ahmed Suleman Daud, the Khan of Kalat, has categorically stated to seek help from India and other western countries against Pakistan and called upon the international community to come forward to help the Baloch people in their freedom struggle.
(Posted on 02 March 2017, 1667779292 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/world-news.php (Posted on 02 March 2017, 1667779292 173O212O198O32)
He made the remarks while addressing a seminar titled, "The History of Balochistan Revisited" at the House of Lords here last week. The seminar was hosted by 'The Democracy Forum' and the deliberations centred on Britain's historical links with the confederacy of Balochistan in the 19th century and the legality of the subsequent accession of Balochistan to Pakistan in 1948. Dr William Crawley of the Institute for Commonwealth Studies chaired the seminar.According to the Nation, during the course of his address, the Khan of Kalat, said that he would go to India, Iran, Afghanistan and other countries to seek their help and influence to reach his and his followers' destiny but his major source of inspiration and dependence would be on India since according to him "they have a sincere friend in Prime Minister Narendera Modi".He added that he will utilise his energies to "push back China", which is involved in the multi-billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has called 'a game changer which will transform the lives of the billions of people of the region.'The Khan questioned the legality of Balochistan's accession to Pakistan as he referred to various treaties signed by the British government with the Baloch rulers, in which Balochistan's sovereignty and independence had been repeatedly affirmed.He argued that Pakistan's founding father, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, who was the attorney for Kalat in all negotiations prior to its annexation by Pakistan, was himself aware that representatives of the British Crown had recognised Kalat as an independent country.Describing Pakistan today as the 'cradle of terrorism', the Khan called on the international community to assist the Baloch regain their independence.Calling Balochistan's accession to Pakistan in 1948 an 'annexation', he argued that Balochistan had lost its independence 'because of geo-politics', saying Britain wanted to deny the Soviet Union access to 'warm waters' - the Indian Ocean."This is why [the British] went back on the treaties (they had signed with Kalat)" he added.The Khan also questioned whether had the mandate to declare Kharan, Lasbela and Mukran princely states.He also welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public airing of the Balochistan issue in his Independence Day speech on August 15 last year.It is pertinent to note that soon after independence emissaries of the then Khan of Kalat had approached Indian prime minister Jawahar Lal Nehru to support Kalat and if necessary accept Kalat'a accession to India. However, Nehru did not respond positively as he felt that Kalat was contiguous to Pakistan. Later the Khan of Kalat was charged by Jinnah of treason for approaching India and hanged.
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Maharashtra: CBI conducts raids on premises of Cooperative Bank Officers
Jalagaon (Maharashtra) , Mar.2 : Doubting an alleged involvement in illegal exchange of demonetised currency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday conducted raids on office and residence premises of top officers of Jalgaon district Central Cooperative Bank.
(Posted on 02 March 2017, 1667779296 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/maharashtra-news.php (Posted on 02 March 2017, 1667779296 173O212O198O32)
The CBI officials searched the premises belonging to Managing Director Jitendra Deshmukh, Branch Manager D.B. Patil and Cashier Ravi Shankar Gujrati.The bank officials allegedly converted demonetised currency of worth Rs. 73 lakh on November 9, 2016, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced his historical decision of rendering Rs. 500 and 1,000 note as illegal.Searches are still going on.Further details are awaited.
Kochi-Muziris Biennale is proud symbol of Kerala's approach towards art: President
Kochi (Kerala) , Mar. 2 : President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday said Kochi-Muziris Biennale is a proud symbol of Kerala's secular approach towards art and culture
(Posted on 02 March 2017, 1667779297 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/kerala-news.php (Posted on 02 March 2017, 1667779297 173O212O198O32)
The President inaugurated the Kochi Muziris Biennale Seminar on 'Importance of Sustainable Cultural Building' in Kochi, Kerala.Speaking on the occasion, the President said that contemporary art is one of the most significant ways of expressing thoughts, emotions, concerns and ideas that are current and relevant in this time."The fact that Kerala, the land of history and tradition, now hosts the largest show of contemporary art in the region, and that too a show that was seeded by Government, speaks of the unique ways of this state and its people," he added.He said the Kochi-Muziris Biennale is a proud symbol of this approach and the sense of oneness and inclusivity that exists here."The Kochi Biennale Foundation is a good case study of what is possible when differing agencies come together to pursue profound goals: to value culture, and the achievements of the human spirit, to celebrate the human imagination, and to make those achievements key markers of development. But most importantly this model should be replicated in different parts of the country," the President said.
8 injured in blast in Manipur
Imphal (Manipur) , Mar.2 : At least eight persons were injured in a blast here on Thursday.
(Posted on 02 March 2017, 1667779297 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/more-news.php (Posted on 02 March 2017, 1667779297 173O212O198O32)
According to the police, preliminary investigation revealed that the blast occurred near the temporary residence of National People's Front (NPF) candidate Leoshiyo Lanthungching in Phangyar assembly constituency.The incident comes just two days before the state of Manipur goes for two-phased polls on March 4 and March 8 respectively.The term of the current state assembly expires on March 18, 2017.The last election in Manipur was held in 2012.The Congress had then won 42 seats and Okram Ibobi Singh was re-elected as the chief minister.Further details are awaited.
Jaitley meets Nepal President Bidya Devi Bhandari
Kathmandu [Nepal], Mar. 2 : Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday met Nepal President Bidya Devi Bhandari.
(Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779298 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/world-news.php (Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779298 173O212O198O32)
Jaitley is currently attending the two-day Nepal Investment Summit 2017, which features over 250 investors from India, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, America, Russia and Canada.Addressing the summit in his keynote speech, Jaitley suggested that Nepal must focus on efficient allocation of funds towards building roads, power and basic infrastructure, adding that India will assist Nepal in these segments."Power transmission lines, new road networks, Nepal-India railway, irrigation projects and new healthcare institutes are what we want to help Nepal build," he said.With regards to attracting foreign investment, Jaitley claimed that the system of remitting profits needs to be re-considered, and Nepal must 'overcome the fear of the unknown.'"The investors of Nepal and India can move ahead through coordination for the investments in educational, medicine and engineering sectors," he added.Jaitley also stressed the need for policy reforms for investment and infrastructural development, adding that the state should adopt a durable tax policy for expanding investments.
AI removes operations director Captain A.K. Kathpalia from his post
New Delhi , Mar. 2 : Air India on Thursday removed director (operations) Captain A.K. Kathpalia from his post, sources said.
(Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779298 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/india-news.php (Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779298 173O212O198O32)
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) earlier on February 15 suspended Kathpalia's license for three months as he failed in Breath Analyser (BA) test on January 19.Kathpalia was positioned as executive director operations in Air India.As per law, it is mandatory to all pilots to examine pre flight medical check-up before taking flight."Captain A Kathpalia operated AI DEL-BLR on January 19 without undergoing BA examine test which is contravention to the contain in CAR section-5 series-F part III issue III dated 4 August 2015," DGCA said in an order."Now in exercise of the power delegate under clause (a) of sub rule (3) of Rule 19 of aircraft rule 1937 read with ministry of tourism and civil aviation notification no. so 727 (E) of October 1994 undersigned hereby suspend in public interest the privileges of the pilot license held by captain Kathpalia for a period of three month," the order added.
Donald Trump stands by Sessions as Democrats seek resignation over Russia revelation
New York [USA], Mar. 3 : U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday said he has total confidence in Attorney General Jeff Sessions following accusations that he misled Congress by failing to disclose pre-election meetings with the Russian ambassador to Washington Sergey Kislyak, according to CNN.
(Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779301 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/world-news.php (Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779301 173O212O198O32)
Following the accusations Democrats have called for Sessions' to resign.It has emerged that Sessions spoke twice with the Russian ambassador to the United States during former's presidential campaign, according to CNN.Sessions did not mention either meeting, during his confirmation hearings when he said he knew of no contacts between Trump surrogates and Russians. A Justice official said Sessions didn't mislead senators during his confirmation.Kislyak is considered to be one of Russia's top spies and spy-recruiters in Washington by the U.S. intelligence.Sessions met with Kislyak twice in Washington, in July on the sidelines of the Republican convention, and in September in his office when Sessions was a member of the Senate Armed Services committee. Sessions was an early Trump backer and regular surrogate for him as a candidate.Sessions, a former senator from Alabama, who was among Trump's early and most vocal surrogates on the campaign trail, did not disclose the conversations when asked during his Senate confirmation hearing in early 2017 about possible contacts between Trump's campaign and Moscow.Several Republicans have called on Sessions to rescue himself from any involvement in an FBI probe into ties between the Trump campaign and Moscow.According to CNN, when asked by reporters traveling with the President in Virginia if Sessions should recuse himself, the President said. "I don't think so."Meanwhile, House Speaker Paul Ryan said Sessions should recuse himself only if he was part of the focus of an ongoing probe."If he, himself, is the subject of an investigation, of course he would," Ryan told reporters Thursday. "But if he's not, I don't see any purpose or reason to doing this."Earlier, Russian links had forces former national security adviser Michael Flynn to resign . Flynn had initially denied discussing sanctions with the Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the transition. Vice-President Pence also defended him in front of the media. But later when reports suggested that sanctions may indeed have been discussed, he conceded that he could not remember with 100 percent certainty.Sessions, however, drew a distinction between his role as a Trump surrogate and his duties as a Senator and he strongly denied ever discussing campaign-related issues with anyone from Russia."I never met with any Russian officials to discuss issues of the campaign. I have no idea what this allegation is about. It is false," he said in a statement.Sessions' spokeswoman Sarah Isgur Flores said there was nothing "misleading about his answer" to Congress because he "was asked during the hearing about communications between Russia and the Trump campaign -- not about meetings he took as a senator and a member of the Armed Services Committee.""Last year, the senator had over 25 conversations with foreign ambassadors as a senior member of the Armed Services Committee, including the British, Korean, Japanese, Polish, Indian, Chinese, Canadian, Australian, German and Russian ambassadors," Isgur Flores said in the statement.A White House official said: "This is the latest attack against the Trump Administration by partisan Democrats. (Attorney) General Sessions met with the ambassador in an official capacity as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, which is entirely consistent with his testimony."White House spokesman Sean Spicer said meanwhile that Sessions had nothing to apologize for, signaling an effort by the administration to stand firmly behind the Attorney General.
Tom Hanks gifts White House press corps new espresso machine
New Delhi , Mar. 3 : The White House press corps recently got a special caffeine boost, courtesy of Tom Hanks.
(Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779304 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/hollywood-news.php (Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779304 173O212O198O32)
In his very unique way to surprise the reporters covering the Trump administration, the 'Forest Gump' star sent a brand new espresso machine to them, adding a note of encouragement.It read, "Keep up the good fight for Truth, Justice and the American way. Especially for the Truth part."The note, typed in Hanks' signature style, includes an illustration with the caption, "Fresh, spirited American troops, flushed with victory, are bringing in thousands of hungry, ragged, battle-weary prisoners."Journalist Peter Alexander took to Twitter to thank Hanks for the gift and wrote, "BREAKING: White House press corps receives brand-new espresso machine from @tomhanks. Come for the coffee... stay for his note."Reportedly, this is the third espresso machine sent by the 'Sully' actor to journalists covering the White House, as part of a tradition he started in 2004.
Kerala: CPM office set on fire by unidentified people
Kozhikode (Kerala) , Mar. 03 : A day after a bomb was hurled at a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) office in Kallachy near Nadapuram, a Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) office at Vishnumangalam was put on fire by few unidentified people.
(Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779305 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/kerala-news.php (Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779305 173O212O198O32)
No casualty has been reported so far in the incident that took place last night.In the attack at the RSS office, three RSS workers had sustained injuries. They were rushed to the Government Medical College in Kozhikode.The attacks come after RSS leader Kundan Chandrawat offered Rs. 1 crore to anyone who would bring Kerala Chief Minister P. Vijayan's head to him."If anyone beheads the Kerala CM, who is the murderer of RSS activists, and brings his head I will bequeath my property worth more than Rs. one crore to him," he had said.
Hunger persists in chronic conflict zones despite strong global harvests - UN
New York, Mar 3 : Despite robust food supply conditions, droughts are worsening food security across swathes of East Africa, and access to food has been dramatically reduced in areas suffering civil conflicts, a new United Nations report has found.
(Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779307 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/world-news.php (Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779307 173O212O198O32)
This is an unprecedented situation. Never before have we been faced with four threats of famine in multiple countries simultaneously, Kostas Stamoulis, the Assistant Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), said in a news release issued on Thursday, noting that famine has been formally declared in South Sudan, and the food security situation is of grave concern in northern Nigeria, Somalia and Yemen.According to the new edition of FAOs Crop Prospects and Food Situation report, some 37 countries require external assistance for food, 28 of them in Africa as a result of lingering effects of last years El Nio-triggered droughts on harvests in 2016.In South Sudan, 100,000 people were facing famine in Leer and Mayendit Counties, part of former Unity state. Overall, about 4.9 million people across the country were classified as facing crisis, emergency or famine.In Yemen, 17 million people, or two-thirds of the population, are estimated to be food insecure. The report notes that the risk of famine declaration in the country is very high.In northern Nigeria, 8.1 million people are facing acute food insecurity conditions, and in Somalia, an estimated 2.9 million people have been severely food insecure from six months ago.Conflicts and civil unrest in Afghanistan, Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Myanmar and Syria are also exacerbating food insecurity conditions for millions of people as well as affecting nearby countries hosting refugees.Global food supply conditions robustThe report says, however, global food supply conditions are robust.Cereal production made quite strong gains in the world overall in 2016, with a record recovery in Central America, and larger cereal crops in Asia, Europe and North America.Prospects are favourable for the 2017 maize crop in Brazil and Argentina and the outlook is generally positive for coarse grains throughout the Southern Hemisphere. Prospects for rice are mixed, but it is still too early to make firm predictions for many of the worlds major crops.Maize harvests in Southern Africa, slashed by El Nio, are forecast to recover this year, with South Africas output expected to increase by more than 50 per cent from 2016.Although FAOs first global wheat production forecast for 2017 points to a 1.8 per cent decline from last years record level, that is due mostly to a projected 20 per cent output drop in the United States.Photo: FAO/Lieke VisserSource: www.justearthnews.com
'Communicating SDGs' key to achieving global development targets - senior UN official
New York, Mar 3 : Bringing together a diverse array of partners to communicate the Sustainable Development Goals was a key focus on day two Global Festival of Ideas for Sustainable Development, a 'playable' United Nations conference that aims to chart a new way of thinking on addressing some of the world's most complex development challenges.
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We have to make the world aware of this [] agenda that is definitely going to transform the planet and that is going to ensure that no one is left behind, Cristina Gallach, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information, told the Festival.The more we communicate about the SDGs and make people aware of the agenda, the more the governments will be accountable and will ensure that it is implemented, she added.The UN Department headed by Gallach, Department of Public Information, is the organizations entity tasked with informing the wider world on the SDGs and ensuring that the 17 goals are known and understood.To that end, 17 icons each with a designated bright colour, short name phrase and single image have been created to illustrate each Global Goal.The icons have also been translated in over 50 languages, from Czech to Bahasa Indonesia, and the number is growing.Going localThis localization is important to allow people around the globe take ownership of their development agenda, said the senior UN official.There are a lot of communications that need to be done locally in the different languages people speak locally on a daily basis she explained.Going local also helps people on the ground feel that that work is being done, so local governments have to implement and local media have to monitor what goes on, added Gallach.Youths are the best alliesThe UN has also placed a particular focus on youth with regards to the SDGs and considers a key partner in the achievement of the Goals.[The youth] are aware the planet is not going well and they might inherit something really bad so they want to be part of the transformation, said Gallach, adding: They know the goals will be achieved when they are adults, when they will be at the peak of their lives.The senior UN official also underscored the importance of forging partnerships in the achievement of the SDGs, as well as in communicating them. In addition to the SDG icons designed in partnership with Jakob Trollbck, working with Project Everyone other examples include the branding of the Mexico city metro and a rap song about the Goals in collaboration with Flocabulary, which uses educational hip-hop music to engage with students.The more we communicate the more we will harvest for partnerships [and] this agenda cannot be implements without very strong partnerships stressed Gallach.The Global Festival of Ideas, the first in a series of annual forums, is hosted by the UN SDG Action Campaign in partnership with the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) with the support of the German Government.Source: www.justearthnews.com
Delhi to get high on Bollywood tunes, this march
New Delhi , Mar. 3 : The national capital is set to host Asia's largest Bollywood music festival Bollywood Music Project, this March on 25 and 26.
(Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779308 173O212O198O32) https://www.newkerala.com/bollywood-news.php (Posted on 03 March 2017, 1667779308 173O212O198O32)
Bhutani Group presents Micromax Bollywood Music Project, earlier, wowed the audience in Mumbai.At the debut edition in Mumbai, Bollywood Music Project featured performances by over 60 artists including Arijit Singh, Hariharan, Papon, Rekha Bharadwaj, Sachin-Jigar, Sajid-Wajid, Sonakshi Sinha and Vishal-Shekhar.For Delhi's millennials, this would be the first opportunity ever to watch their favourite Bollywood icons perform live in a multi-genre, multi-stage format.For the Delhi edition, the line-up will comprise of over 50 iconic artistes, supported by over 200 musicians on three stages: The Experimental Stage, The Alternative Stage and The Emerging Artistes Stage.Having established Live Bollywood across genres such as sufi, hip-hop, funk, rock and pop music, BMP's second edition promises to touch millions of hearts again. Bollywood Music Project is collaborating with the biggest names in the industry to belt out tunes infused with music from genres like contemporary, folk, Punjabi, rap, Sufi, pop and hip-hop among others. Bollywood Music Project is offering an assorted platter of Bollywood music tunes to woo the music lovers in the Capital.The multi stage, multi-genre music project will see performances by iconic music artistes like Amit Trivedi, Vishal and Shekhar, Rekha Bharadwaj, Badshah, Raftar, Manj Musik, Nindy Kaur, Zubeen Garg, Asses Kaur, Ash King, Babbal Rai, Divya Kumar, Harrdy Sandhu, Harshdeep Kaur, Jassie Gil, Mohammed Irfan, Pawni Pandey, Shashi Suman, Shefali Alvares, Zublee Baruah and many more.The second list of artists would be announced soon.Ashish Bhutani, managing director, Bhutani Infra said, "We have recently partnered with BMP. This strategic alliance will enhance our already significant reach, brand recall and presence across North India. Associating with Bollywood Music Project is a strategic decision to establish our brand presence across India as the leading real estate player."Shubhajit Sen, chief marketing officer, Micromax Informatics said "Being a youth centric brand we are always focused on bringing alive experiences that connect our consumers to their passions. Clearly, Music and Bollywood are two of the key interest points that resonate with our consumers, and hence we are excited to partner with the Bollywood Music Project - to bring the music lovers closer to their favorite genre of music like never before."
Manipur polls: Congress eyes dominance, BJP promises end to economic blockade
Imphal (Manipur) , Mar. 3 : The elections fever has gripped Manipur as it gears up for the 11th state assembly polls.
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A total of 167 candidates of 17 political parties including the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Naga People's Front, All India Trinamool Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) besides others are in the fray.Polling for the 60-member legislative assembly will be held in two phases on March 4 and March 8 respectively.Kicking off the BJP's campaign at Langjing Achouba ground in Imphal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to find a solution to economic blockade that has crippled life in the state for months now if the BJP is voted to power."BJP government will be formed in Manipur and once we come into power we won't allow blockades to continue in the state. We promise that and we will show how the administration functions," the Prime Minister said.Ahead of the assembly polls, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi also addressed a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal and said that his party would guide Manipur on the path of development and prosperity."O. Ibobi Singh is the Chief Minister of Manipur and he will take into consideration the views of the common people and run the administration smoothly and this will benefit the people of Manipur and the state as a whole," Gandhi said.Over the last six months, several smaller parties have also emerged on the political scene. Irom Sharmila's People's Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA) is one of the new parties."In a multi-cultural society living in hills and valley and in between hill and valley, there will be a very harmonious living together with understanding by connecting their hearts, to solve any problems by bringing real democracy in our state," said activist and PRJA candidate Sharmila.In wake of the polls, the Election Commission of India launched awareness campaign for the voters in Manipur."We launched our SVEEP campaign in the form of democracy event. On the event, election commissioner had coined the word 'Festival of Democracy' wherein all the stakeholders should participate in a festive mood either they are electors, political parties, candidates and officials. All of them should take it in the spirit of festival of democracy. That was the term the election commissioner coined it when he visited Manipur," said Vivek Kumar Dewangan, Chief Electoral Officer, Manipur.The election results will be announced on March 11.
Nepal well-poised to attract Indian FDI says Finance Minister Arun Jaitley
New Delhi, Mar 3 : Uion Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said on Friday that India and Nepal share share deep-rooted historical, cultural and religious ties, which have enabled extensive cooperation in trade and economic fields between the two countries.
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The Finance Minister represented India at the Nepal Investment Summit 2017 held at Kathmandu on March 2 and 3, 2017.While addressing the Summit, the Union Minister said that India and Nepal have wide ranging engagement in trade and investment and that Nepal is well poised to attract further FDI from India by creation of a conducive legal and regulatory framework.India is Nepals largest partner in trade and investment with more than two-third of Nepals trade being with India and India accounting for nearly 40% of total FDI in Nepal, the minister said.The two countries have open border, grant national treatment to each others citizens and millions of Nepali citizens live and work in India.The Indian minister pointed out that Nepal has several important sectors such as hydropower, transmission lines, road and rail networks, health, education, tourism, irrigation etc in which it can attract Indian investments. India is ready to invest in the projects of Kathmandu-Nijgadh fast track road, second international airport at Nijgadh, Koshi High Dam etc.During his official visit, the Union Minister of Finance called on the President of Nepal Bidya Devi Bhandari and Prime MinisterPushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda.Jaitley also held meetings with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister of Nepal Krishna Bahadur Mahara and Industry Minister Nabindra Raj Joshi.In his bilateral meetings, the Union Minister of Finance conveyed Indias abiding commitment to partner with Nepal in meeting its aspirations for socio-economic growth.Recalling the construction of several Integrated Check Posts, rail links, Hulaki roads, schools, health posts, etc with Indian assistance, Arun Jaitley stated that India stands ready to make available more soft loans for new infrastructure projects which would enable Nepal grow at a fast pace.In order to address the issue of high trade deficit, Jaitley suggested that Nepal may expand its export basket by attracting more Indian investment in export-oriented industries. Further, the early completion of power projects like Upper Karnali and Arun-III, Nepal would be able to export electricity to India.He urged that the issues of forest land and land acquisition which have delayed the projects should be resolved at the earliest.The Nepali leaders thanked Arun Jaitley for Indias development assistance and highly appreciated Indias assistance for post-earthquake reconstruction of Nepal.Deputy PM Mahara in particular thanked the Government of India for facilitating export of nearly 380 MW of electricity throughout this winter which has enabled several regions of Nepal become free of load-shedding.The two countries now have transmission lines for trade of nearly 500 MW of electricity, which would increase to over 750 MW by mid-2017.Image: PIB Twitter
'Everything's fine' with Hugh Jackman post cancer treatment
Washington D.C. [USA], Mar. 3 : Giving an optimistic update on his health, Hugh Jackman recently revealed that he is on the mend after sixth skin cancer treatment.
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The 48-year-old actor, who recently revealed about his newest ailment on his Instagram page alongside a photo of him with a bandage on his nose, said on LIVE! With Kelly that he is "all good, almost completely healed," reports E! Online.'The Wolverine' star said, "It's a basal cell carcinoma, everything's fine. It is skin cancer but the least dangerous form of it, so it's just something I have to get out after being an Aussie with English parents, growing up in Australia, it's sort of the new normal for me. But everything's fine. People have been so lovely, thank you."Giving some sound advice, Jackman continued, "Wear sunscreen and get a check-up!"On the movie front, Jackman's last ride as the Wolverine, 'Logan' is all set for a March 3 release in India.
Bollywood star kids open about Kangana's 'nepotism' remark
Mumbai , Mar. 3 : Whole B-town was in shock when Kangana Ranaut, boldly talked about nepotism in the industry on Koffee With Karan, which saw a string of reactions coming about the issue.
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Let us see what the star kids have to say about this:Alia Bhat, who was recently spotted at an event, said, "I believe Kangana said that in a very different context and she was only talking from her own perspective. I don't think she was attacking somebody. I feel I have given my views on nepotism, a lot of times that I have now got bored of talking about it."Earlier, actress Sonam Kapoor also shared her thoughts on the same by saying, that she loves the 'Rangoon' star and really look forward to read her interviews.For the uninitiated, Kangana Ranaut known for her brazen honesty took a dig at Karan Johar on his show, calling him the "flag-bearer of nepotism" in Bollywood.The word 'nepotism' means, the practice among those with power or influence of favoring friends, especially by giving them jobs.
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Oscars: President assure 'changes' after Best Picture fiasco
Los Angeles [USA], Mar. 3 : After the embarrassing 'Best Picture' s.n.a.f.u at this year's Oscar ceremony, Academy's President Cheryl Boone Isaacs has sent a note to the members of the organization.
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Isaacs, addressing the 'rather chaotic ending of the show,' has told the members of the Academy, the changes will be implemented to ensure this thing never happens again, reports The Hollywood Reporter.She notes, "The failure of PwC's accountants to follow established protocols and their delay in immediately remedying the situation." Adding that, "PwC has accepted full responsibility for the error," she reassures members that changes will be made to make sure nothing similar happens in the future.Boone Isaacs, also offered praise for how those affected dealt with the unforeseen event, "The professionalism of the crew and stage managers, led by Rob Paine "the spirit and enthusiasm of all the presenters, including Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway; and that of the filmmakers, especially those from 'Moonlight' and 'La La Land'," Isaacs wrote."The grace and humility they demonstrated onstage, with the world watching, shows the strength of the bond that connects all the artists in our community," she added.She also offered Academy members a two-minute video of highlights from the show that includes brief clips of the best picture drama. "And then this happened," the video reads before showing La La Land producer Jordan Horowitz announcing that Moonlight won. And the video then flashes the message, "And that led to a moment of grace and humanity," as Moonlight director Barry Jenkins is shown accepting the award.Calling this year's broadcast, "one of the best - and certainly most dramatic and talked about - Oscar ceremonies of all time," she said she was proud of the work and effort of all involved, starting with producers Jennifer Todd and Michael De Luca.
PM Modi's cabinet camped in Varanasi shows his 'confidence', mocks Congress
Hyderabad , Mar. 3 : With around eight members from the Centre's cabinet staying put in Varanasi with their eyes on ensuring the victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress has mocked the development saying it clearly indicates Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state of mind.
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"If the Prime Minister's recent policies including demonetisation have been so successful, then why is he constantly paranoid? He has called the entire cabinet in Lucknow to Varanasi," Congress leader Kapil Sibal told the media here.Asserting that the Prime Minister will taste defeat for sure from all his seats in Varanasi, Sibal further stated that hoarding members of his cabinet in Varanasi was a contradiction to his "popular" image being projected by the BJP.Besides Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Health Minister JP Nadda, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh, Minister for Electronics, Union IT minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Social Justice Minister Thaawarchand Gehlot are reportedly camping in Varanasi laying the groundwork ahead of the former's rallies in the city, before the last phase of polling on March 8.
Indian traditional cuisines attracts food lovers
By Vinamrata Takia, New Delhi (India), Mar. 3 : The Global Traditional Food Summit, recently held in the national capital, provided a platform for different states to showcase their traditional food. The major objective of the summit was to harness the potential of traditional food and empower traditional food operators.
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India is quite famous for its diverse multi-cuisine, known for its large assortment of dishes. The cooking style varies from region to region and is largely divided into South Indian & North Indian cuisine.With the advent of processed and junk food, people of the new generation have forgotten about delicacies of India. Food summits like these are a great medium to educate people and make them aware about the variety of traditional food items in India.S.S. Ghonkrokta the organizer of the event said, "Traditional food is losing its relevance and significance over time. Unfortunately a few years ago, a wave came and people started avoiding traditional food. Traditional food was replaced by fast food, which is not wholesome and ultimately results in poor health conditions and diseases. Awareness and trade in traditional food should spread everywhere."Different states like- Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Punjab etc. participated in the event.Chefs from hill state of Himachal Pradesh also showcased their traditional cuisines. The delicacies in the region are prepared using a wide range assorted spices like cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric and cumin, etc.People from the hilly region also use a lot of yogurt as a base to most curries, which adds a comforting depth when added with buttermilk and Desi Ghee."It's a big stage for us; because of this summit we got a chance to showcase our traditional Himachali food. People who are coming to attend the summit, they are coming and want to taste our food. And you need a stage to promote your food," said Richa Gupta, the stall owner of Kangadi Dham from Himachal Pradesh.The food in India's north-east region is as colourful and unique as their culture. When it comes to the food of Manipur, it is well-known for its chilli peppers and oil-free dishes.The black rice kheer (dessert) is one of the most popular dishes in Manipur and brings out the unique indigenous ingredients representing the region's palette.Khuplenthaung Kom, the chief from Manipur said, "There are three types of sticky rice: black, brown and white and this rice is stickier than others. We can make many things from this rice like rice cake, rice kheer and we use this rice in different forms. In Manipur we use the sticky rice and make dishes on occasions like festivals, marriages and various celebrations. It's very popular in Manipur, so we would like to introduce this to everyone and how we make dishes from this rice."The summit was a great initiative to promote India's traditional cuisine.It concluded with a cooking competition for homemakers, where the audience got to witness several new traditional dishes.
Akhilesh rubbishes PM Modi's claim of ISI role in Kanpur train tragedy
Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) , Mar. 3 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on Friday rebuffed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim of ISI hand in Kanpur train accident and alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is used to seek votes by misguiding people.
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"Our railway minister could not take care of Kanpur tracks and gave false report to the Prime Minister that ISI had damaged the tracks. I want to say that the incident took place in Uttar Pradesh, at least I should have been informed about this. But no information. no truth in it," Akhilesh said while addressing the media here.Earlier in the day, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister had claimed similar thing at an election rally in Ghazipur.Last year, Kanpur witnessed two tragic train accidents.The first one occurred on November 20, killing 150 people with another derailment taking place on December 28.The two mishaps that killed several were later attributed to the ISI operative.Earlier, at an election rally in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Modi described the Kanpur train tragedy as an 'act of terror'.Taking a jibe, Akhilesh said the Prime Minister talked of Harvard (University) and hard work and questioned him if he has hardly done anything.On Uttar Pradesh minister Gayatri Prajapati's case, the Chief Minister said, "The government will cooperate in every way. Justice will be done."Asserting that no speech of Prime Minister Modi ends without mentioning women's security, Akhilesh urged the former to look into the grieves of the women of Kutch, Gujarat.
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A team led by Pr. Marina Cavazzana conducted at Necker Children's Hospital, AP-HP and the Imagine Institute (AP-HP / Inserm / Universite Paris Descartes) in October 2014 gene therapy in the context of a phase I clinical trial / II in a patient 13 years with severe sickle cell disease. Conducted in collaboration with Pr. Philippe Leboulch (CEA / University Faculties of Medicine of Paris-Sud and Harvard University) who developed the vector used and directed preclinical studies, this innovative treatment allowed complete remission of clinical signs of disease and correction of biological signs. The results are published on March 2nd 2017 in the New England Jounal of Medicine.
Sickle cell disease, severe chronic anemia of genetic origin, is characterized by the production of an abnormal hemoglobin and deformed erythrocytes (sickle), due to a mutation in the gene encoding the -globin. This disease causes episodes of very severe pain caused by vaso-occlusive crisis. It also causes lesions of all vital organs, sensitivity to infections, as well as iron overload and endocrine disorders. It is estimated that hemoglobinopathies affect 7% of the world population. Among them, sickle cell disease is considered the most common with 50 million people carry the mutation - with a risk of transmitting the disease - or attacks. Genetic defects of the -globin, -thalassemia and sickle cell anemia,
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The clinical trial, coordinated by Prof. Marina Cavazzana, was taken to hospital Necker Children of AP-HP and the Imagine Institute.
The first phase consisted of collecting hematopoietic stem cells, causing the production of all the lineages of blood cells, in the bone marrow of the patient. A vector virus carrying a therapeutic gene, already developed to treat beta-thalassemia, was then introduced into these cells to correct. This lentiviral vector capable of carrying long complex DNA segments, was developed by Professor Philippe Leboulch and is widely produced by the American company bluebird bio.
The treated cells were then reinjected intravenously young patient in October 2014. The teenager was then supported during his hospitalization in the pediatric immunohaematology Service of the Hospital Necker Children in collaboration with Pr. Stephane Blanche and Dr. Jean-Antoine Ribeil.
Fifteen months after transplantation of corrected cells, the patient no longer needs to be transfused, no longer suffers from vaso-occlusive crises, and fully resumed its physical and school activities. " We also note that the expression of the therapeutic protein from the vector, highly inhibiting pathological sickling, is remarkably high and effective ," says Professor Philippe Leboulch.
" We hope, with this gene therapy approach, develop future clinical trials and include a significant number of patients with sickle cell disease, in the Ile-de-France and in the national territory " says Pr. Marina Cavazzana.
Source: http://www.cea.fr/english/Pages/News/Sickle-cell-disease-remission-signs-disease-first-patient-treated-gene-therapy.aspx
For patients affected by lung diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis and others, cures for their diseases are incredibly rare, if not nonexistent.
"We really have no option, but to offer them a lung transplantation," says Vibha Lama, M.D., a professor of internal medicine and associate chief of basic and translational research at Michigan Medicine's Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine.
"Survival of lung transplantation is worse than all other solid organ transplants," she says. "The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and the 10-year survival rate is as low as 20 percent. For me to tell my patient that this second chance at life comes with this critical limitation is incredibly hard."
Lama explains that in many lung transplant patients, the body will chronically reject the new lung.
"Small airways of the transplanted lung, or graft, begin scarring and slowly become completely scarred and close up. This process is called bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS)," she says. "The patient will begin to have shortness of breath again, like they did before the transplant, and this scarring can lead to graft problems and ultimately death in some patients. Right now we have nothing to prevent or stop this scarring process once it begins."
Lama is the senior author on a new paper, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, which examined the scarring process in transplanted lungs in hopes of identifying novel therapies to stop scarring before it starts.
Analyzing cells and their environment
"This study is unique because it actually started from our patients," Lama says. "Samples were collected from lung transplant patients by going into the lung with a small scope that helps us to insert a liquid into the lung and draw it back, allowing us to study the internal environment of the transplanted organ. This procedure, called bronchoalveolar lavage, is routinely done to rule out acute rejection or infection."
In 2007, in a study published in JCI, Lama's team demonstrated that they could isolate novel mesenchymal stem cells from this bronchoalveolar lavage.
In this new study, Lama and team focused on cells harvested from lung transplant patients who had BOS and those who did not.
"We started investigating cells in patients who have BOS and found that even after being removed from the fibrotic graft, these cells stayed activated, making more collagen, which explained their ability to promote relentless scarring," Lama says.
As the team dug into what keeps these cells activated, they discovered a chain of upstream signals starting with autotaxin, an enzyme which acts on the cell membrane to generate lysophosphatidic acid. This potent lipid mediator was signaling the cells to produce more collagen, as well as indirectly increased autotaxin levels.
"We found that these cells could regulate themselves by increased autotaxin production, which was being further enhanced by an autocrine loop," Lama says. "What's so fascinating about this is that it means the cell no longer needs an inflammatory environment, or stimulation in its environment, to produce the collagen. That's extremely novel because we have never thought of these cells as essentially cancer cell-like in nature, but they are regulating their own behavior like a cancer cell does."
She adds, "The dysregulated behavior of these cells essentially makes them become autonomous in behavior and helps us further understand why we can't stop the scarring process just by changing the environment around the cell, which does not make a difference. They have already begun not listening to anything around them."
Lama explains that this finding led the team to investigate new therapies.
"If we interrupt this pathway, we could potentially stop further development of lung scarring and save the graft," she says.
Therapeutic treatments
Building on these findings, Lama and team examined two new therapeutic treatments for their potential in interrupting the pathway.
One treatment, PF-8380, targeted the enzyme, while the other treatment, AM095, targeted the receptor for lysophosphatidic acid.
Using a novel mouse lung transplant model of chronic rejection their laboratory developed, they were able to test if the drugs would decrease the scarring process.
Lama and team found that the mouse models treated with these orally administered drugs were protected from the scarring process of chronic rejection with significantly less fibrosis noted in their transplanted lungs.
The team hopes that these findings will lay the foundation for future clinical trials.
"Drugs targeting this pathway, such as autotaxin inhibitors and LPA1 receptor antagonists, have already been developed and are in clinical trials for other fibrotic conditions of the lung, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis," Lama explains. "Now we hope that we can consider similar therapies in BOS, a disease where we have no therapeutic options."
Lama also explains that these findings should encourage the transplant community in general to consider anti-fibrotic treatments in patients with chronically rejected lungs, instead of just immune suppressive drugs that were given in the past.
"These findings suggest that understanding the pathways that activate a mesenchymal cell and targeting them is crucial if we want to contain the progression of BOS," Lama says. "We hope this work, which started from the bedside when we examined the lavage fluid from our lung transplant recipients, will be able to be translated back from the bench to the bedside to make an impact on the lives of our patients."
The toxic protein behind Parkinson's disease may not spread like an infection from nerve cell to nerve, according to a new theory by Technion and Harvard University scientists. Instead, the protein, called alpha-synuclein, may simultaneously affect all parts of the nervous system inside and outside of the brain. Their findings could change how Parkinson's is treated, the researchers say.
Associate Professor Simone Engelender of the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and her colleague Ole Isacson at Harvard Medical School describe this "threshold theory" of Parkinson's for the first time in a report published in the January issue of Trends in Neuroscience.
"Instead of studying how proteins move from one neuron to another and searching for compounds that prevent the 'spread' of aggregated -synuclein, we need to study why -synuclein accumulates within neurons and how these neurons die in the disease, and search for compounds that prevent the general neuronal dysfunction," said Professor Engelender.
Parkinson's disease destroys nerve cells throughout the body, especially key neurons in the brain that produce a compound called dopamine that helps to control movement and posture. The disease grows worse over time, and there is no known cure. More than one million people in the United States have the disorder, according to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation.
The disease is caused by accumulation of -synuclein, which overwhelms and destroys nerve cells. The most commonly-held theory about the disease suggests that patients get progressively worse as clumps of -synuclein spread between neurons, almost like an infection.
But Engelender and Isacson think the scientific evidence points to a different model of the disease. Instead of spreading from neuron to neuron, they say, aggregations of -synuclein develop throughout the body at the same time. Different parts of the nervous system vary in how much of this toxic protein they can tolerate, depending on how well the cells in that part of the system work together to compensate for any destroyed cells.
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The researchers say their theory fits better with patients' symptoms than the infection-style theory. Engelender and Isacson's theory may help explain, for example, why some of the earliest signs of the disease appear in places like the gastrointestinal tract that have no neurons to compensate for a dysfunction and therefore have a lower threshold of tolerance for -synuclein toxicity.
The new theory may also affect how the disease is treated. For instance, some scientists have recommended a procedure that severs part of the vagus nerve, which runs outside the brain, to prevent the spread of -synuclein from the body to the brain. The threshold theory, Engelender said, suggests that this operation would be unnecessary.
"The only specific treatment that is and will continue to be beneficial is the replenishment of dopamine in the brain, through the intake of the supplement L-Dopa, to improve the motor symptoms," said Engelender. "This has been done for several decades and should be continued to be done since it can at least alleviate the motor symptoms for a few years, even if does not cure and does not prevent the progression of the disease."
"Nevertheless, I believe that the search for compounds that specifically decrease -synuclein levels are the only hope to provide a real and more effective treatment for the disease," Engelender added.
Since the discovery of penicillin in 1928, antibiotics have made the world a much safer and healthier place. But Shakespeare was onto something when he asked if it's possible to have too much of a good thing. In the case of antibiotics, the answer is increasingly "yes."
As a result, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center are teaming up to take on the rising problem of antibiotic resistance.
A new entity, Case VA CARES, will combine firepower from both organizations in the battle against antibiotic resistance. Staff will carry out new research, work to modify existing antibiotics, try and discover new ones, and use decoys to trick uncooperative bacteria.
The Problem
More and more, bacteria and other microorganisms are developing resistance to antibiotics which used to kill them off. This resistance, which evolves via natural selection through random mutation, is usually caused by excessive use of antibiotics, including in livestock animals raised as human food. In turn, infections which used to yield to antibiotics can persist and even worsen, putting patients in danger. Not only does antibiotic resistance imperil health, it also adds to healthcare costs as doctors try different medicines to find ones bacteria haven't become resistant to. Sometimes the stronger substitute antibiotics cause serious side effects such as kidney damage.
More than two million people develop antibiotic-resistant infections in the U.S. ever year, leading to more than 23,000 deaths. Some experts say that without new inroads, the death toll could top that from cancer by mid-century. The financial costs are already enormous: as much as $20 billion in extra healthcare costs annually.
Case VA CARES
Case VA CARES (CWRU-Cleveland VAMC Center for Antimicrobial Resistance and Epidemiology) will be located in the CWRU School of Medicine and Cleveland VA with collaborating partner laboratories located around the world. "An immediate goal of this initiative is to boost research into multidrug-resistant Gram negative organisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae and mycobacteria, which can cause tuberculosis and many other infections," said Pamela B. Davis, MD, PhD, dean of CWRU School of Medicine. "Understanding the mechanistic and molecular bases of resistance is crucial to properly treating patients with serious infections."
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In addition to research and drug discovery, experts at the center will work with scientists throughout the world to track outbreaks of resistant organisms, discover new drugs, and develop training for physicians, medical students, and residents to recognize and prevent overuse of antibiotics.
The director of the center will be Robert A. Bonomo, MD, medicine service chief at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center. Faculty members of the new center will come from throughout both organizations including experts in infectious diseases, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, proteomics, and bioinformatics. Experienced scientists with expertise in bacterial genome sequencing and bioinformatics analyses will be recruited to augment experts from the CWRU Department of Genetics.
"In the search for new antibiotics and fresh strategies for existing ones, Case VA CARES will play a prominent role in leading and conducting research needed to design and conduct clinical trials, which will take place at the VA , University Hospitals, MetroHealth, and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation," said Dr. Bonomo, who is a member of the NIH-funded Antimicrobial Resistance Leadership Group (ARLG). The latter group is addressing national priorities for clinical research on antibiotic resistance.
Case VA CARES will also benefit from strong working relationships with industry partners of both the School of Medicine, University Hospitals of Cleveland, MetroHealth, the Cleveland Clinic and the VA Medical Center.
Deep down, we always knew it, but science is proving that cocoa and caffeine are indeed the best marriage ever. Clarkson University researcher Ali Boolani recently completed a study that explores the powers of these two dark delights.
The assistant professor of physical therapy and physician assistant studies teamed up with colleagues at the University of Georgia to examine the "acute effects of brewed cocoa consumption on attention, motivation to perform cognitive work and feelings of anxiety, energy and fatigue."
In a nearly year-long double-blind study, some lucky test subjects drank brewed cocoa, cocoa with caffeine, caffeine without cocoa, and a placebo with neither caffeine nor cocoa. Then they were asked to do tests to evaluate both cognitive tasks and mood.
"It was a really fun study," Boolani says. "Cocoa increases cerebral blood flow, which increases cognition and attention. Caffeine alone can increase anxiety. This particular project found that cocoa lessens caffeine's anxiety-producing effects -- a good reason to drink mocha lattes!"
Before you envy the test subjects too much, bear in mind they had to work for the warm drinks. For example, they were asked to watch as letters flashed across a screen and note when an "X" appeared after an "A." They also had to point out when odd numbers appeared sequentially, and they were required to do subtraction.
"The results of the tests are definitely promising and show that cocoa and caffeine are good choices for students and anyone else who needs to improve sustained attention," says Boolani.
Here's the best news for the rest of us: The Hershey Company sponsored the research, so customers logically could see some new or enhanced products on the market as a result.
Boolani and his colleagues -- Jacob B. Lindheimer (War Related Illness and Injury Study Center - VA New Jersey Health Care System), Bryan D. Loy (Oregon Health & Science University), Stephen Crozier (The Hershey Company), and Patrick J. O'Connor (University of Georgia) -- have published a paper about the results of their study in the journal BMC Nutrition.
"I'll be doing some related and follow-up studies at Clarkson to look at differences in natural vs. synthetic caffeine, and other cocoa studies" Boolani adds. "I'm excited about them."
Heads up. He'll be looking for more test subjects.
Dr. Ibrahim I. Cisse Wins 2017 Honor
HORIBA Scientific, world leader in fluorescence spectroscopy systems, awarded Dr. Ibrahim Cisse, the class of 1922 Assistant Professor of Physics at MIT, its annual Young Fluorescence Investigator Award. HORIBA Scientific has been the sole sponsor of this award since 1997. Along with the recognition, HORIBA presents a $1000 check to the awardee, who is invited to present a 20-minute talk on their research at the Biological Fluorescence Subgroup Meeting during the Biophysical Society Annual Meeting. This years presentation by Dr. Cisse was, Capturing Genome Regulation with Single Molecule Resolution in Live Mammalian Cells."
Prof. Cisse joined the Department of Physics at MIT in January, 2014. He received his B.S. in Physics in 2004 from North Carolina Central University, and then went to the Physics Department at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in December, 2009 to complete his PhD. His graduate research in single-molecule biophysics focused on weak and transient interactions in vitro, and was done in the lab of Taekjip Ha, currently Bloomberg Professor of Biophysics, Biophysical Chemistry and Biomedical Engineering at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). From January 2010 to December 2012, he studied at Ecole Normale Superieure de Paris, in the Physics and Biology departments, as both a Pierre Gilles de Gennes fellow, and a European Molecular Biology Organization long-term fellow. He then went to HHMIs Janelia Research Campus where he was in the Transcription Imaging Consortium until January 2013.
The Young Fluorescence Investigator Award is given to a researcher who has been nominated by their peers, for significant advancements and/or contributions in, or using, fluorescence methodologies. The candidate must be a Ph.D., and pre-tenured faculty or a junior level investigator working in the field of fluorescence.
HORIBA is very proud to sponsor this prestigious award every year, and Professor Cisse is an excellent choice as this years recipient, said Cary Davies, Director of the Fluorescence group at HORIBA Scientific. Ibrahim is the 22nd researcher to win the Young Investigator Award, since 1997.
In a study published in Nature Genetics, Dr Saumya Jamuar, co-founder of Global Gene Corp and a visiting scientist at Harvard Medical School, under the supervision of Prof Christopher Walsh and A/Prof Timothy Yu of Harvard Medical School, reports on a new disease entity that they discovered in their quest to map novel human disorders related to brain development.
The new syndrome, referred to as Developmental Split-Brain syndrome is caused by biallelic mutations in the human Deleted in Colorectal Carcinoma (DCC) gene. It can lead to symptoms including intellectual disability, horizontal gaze palsy, mirror movements and scoliosis. This disorder affects individuals soon after birth (and in case 3, even during pregnancy) although the clinical features may not be obvious until an older age.
The hallmark feature of this syndrome is the distinct pattern on brain imaging, and includes agenesis of corpus callosum, absent anterior and hippocampal commissures and ventral midline brain malformations.
Although, this condition is rare, the phenomenon of split brain has been intensely studied with implications on brain organization. There are also explicit connections between split brains and neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and Asperger syndrome. The findings may also have implications in improving our understanding of common disorders such as scoliosis and strabismus.
The discovery is as a result of an international collaborative effort to study the DCC gene in three families from different regions of the globe (Mexico, USA and Saudi Arabia) who remarkably shared similar clinical and radiological features. On detailed neuroimaging, the team discovered that the central defect was lack of connection between the right and left side of the brain (technical term: disruption of midline commissural tracts).
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This work highlights the need for international collaborative work by building networks and integrating deep clinical and radiological information into research. says Dr Jamuar. After working on family 1, we reached out to our collaborators and were struck by the similarity between the images of family 1 and family 2. Thats when we realized that we had found a novel disease entity. The imaging, plus other findings in our patients, demonstrates that the left and right halves of the brain lack the structures necessary to talk to one another effectively splitting it into two separate halves.
It was really exciting when we saw the mutation in DCC a reunion with an old scientific friend, says Yu, who studied the gene in roundworms as a graduate student in the 1990s. At a symposium nearly 20 years ago, I had to explain to an audience full of parents and pediatricians how this really elementary work might relate to their children and patients with autism and ADHD. I talked about how one day we may find that the fundamental mechanisms controlling the wiring of neural circuitry could be disrupted in human neurodevelopmental disorders, too but it was all theoretical. Finding the complete knockout now feels like it completes the circle.
The researchers will continue to search for more such patients who may have aberrations along the same genetic pathway, and hope that their findings will help improve the understanding of how the brain develops.
As people get older so do the hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that form their blood, creating an increased risk for compromised immunity and certain blood cancers. Now researchers are reporting in the scientific journal that the bone marrow niche where HSC's form also ages, contributing to the problem.
In a study published March 2, scientists from the University of Ulm in Germany and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center in the United States propose rejuvenating the bone marrow niche where HSCs are created. This could mean younger acting HSCs that form healthier blood cells, boosted immunity in older people, and a better defense mechanism against certain cancers, according to study authors.
Conducting their study in mouse models, the scientists point to cells in the bone marrow called osteoblasts, which help form bone. Osteoblasts make a protein called osteopontin, which is important to supporting a vibrant bone marrow environment in the creation of blood-forming HSCs.
"We show that the place where HSCs form in the bone marrow loses osteopontin upon aging, but if you give back the missing protein to the blood-forming cells they suddenly rejuvenate and act younger," says Hartmut Geiger, PhD, study lead investigator at the Institute for Molecular Medicine and Aging Research Center at the University of Ulm, and the Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology at Cincinnati Children's. "Our study points to exciting novel ways to have a better immune system and possibly less blood cancer upon aging by therapeutically targeting the place where blood stem cells form."
Because the study was in mice, its findings cannot at this stage be extended to clinical treatment of human patients, the authors say. But the data provide interesting leads that one day could benefit human health.
Bone marrow time warp
The researchers conducted a number of experiments to test the formation and vitality of cells in and near the bone marrow microenvironment. One test in aging mice looked at the formation of endosteum stroma cells, which form a thin layer of connective tissue on the inner surface of bones. Another experiment monitored levels of osteopontin and other proteins linked to distinct cells in bone marrow during the aging process.
Study authors say they observed reduced production of osteoblasts and other stroma cells in the endosteum of older mice. They also saw decreased osteopontin protein levels in the bone marrow of older animals, which they note was associated with reduced vigor and function of blood-forming HSCs.
Reversing the niche aging process
Scientists followed up the earlier experiments by transplanting bone marrow cells from older mice (19-21 months) into young mice (8 to 10 weeks). In two other experiments, the authors also transplanted aged HSCs from older mice into younger mice, and they treated aged HSCs with a recombinant form of the osteopontin protein.
Transplantation into the younger animals caused cells to act in a younger more vital manner, the authors report. This includes the presence of smaller numbers of HSCs with greater potential for forming different types of blood cells, which included larger populations of B and T cells and smaller production of myeloid cells.
The authors also saw aged HSCs treated with recombinant osteopontin regain their youthful characteristics and capacity to form different blood-cell types. Also observed was diminished signaling of the protein Cdc42, a protein that Geiger and his team previously showed causes HSCs to age.
Osteopontin levels are not only low in the bone marrow niche, but also in the blood upon aging. As a follow up to the current study, the researchers are investigating the possibility to use osteopontin replacement therapy in mice to counter the influence of an aging niche directly in the animals.
For the first time at ECR in Vienna (March 1 5) the healthcare division of Siemens AG will be appearing under its new brand Siemens Healthineers and with the motto, Lets shape the future of healthcare together. The companys strategic goal is to help healthcare providers worldwide to meet their current challenges and to excel in their respective environments using products and solutions that increase efficiency and reduce costs. Thanks to standardised workflows and special service packages Siemens Healthineers provides radiological institutions certainty for budgeting and supports successful growth.
The Somatom go. platform with the Somatom go.Now and Somatom go.Up scanners offers automated and standardized workflows that help users achieve profound clinical results. The 32-slice Somatom go.Now is particularly suited to radiology providers who want to establish a new CT department.
Accordingly, Siemens Healthineers will exhibit an entirely new platform for computed tomography, which will meet the needs of all users and improve their competitive situation. Based on the Somatom go. platform Siemens Healthineers offers two scanner variants: the 32-slice Somatom go.Now is particularly suited to radiology providers who want to establish a new CT department. Somatom go.Up is equipped with a wider detector providing up to 64 slices. Among other benefits, it offers faster scanning, which is especially important for lung imaging e.g., to screen for cancer. Since the scanners can be controlled via a tablet, medical staff no longer has to keep moving between the CT scanner and the control room. Radiographers can thus stay with patients while preparing the scan. The software also gives additional assurance with regard to the diagnostic quality of the images. In addition, all the computer hardware that was previously housed in the control room has now been directly integrated into the scanner gantry. Radiology providers therefore no longer need a separate control room, and can make use of a lower-cost single-room design instead. The automated and standardised workflows of the Somatom go. platform help achieve thorough clinical results, and special service packages like the integrated Siemens Healthineers Connect Plan give users the opportunity to budget reliably, with lower running costs overall. The system thus represents a further step in the direction of improving efficiency and better patient care.
Competitive strength and profitability with Magnetom Sempra
Magnetom Sempra is a new highly cost-effective MRI scanner from Siemens Healthineers. Magnetom Sempra is also available with the Siemens Healthineers Connect Plan. Thanks to the service concept, low operating costs and innovative technologies, the Magnetom Sempra 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner makes it possible for radiology practices and clinics as well as small and medium-sized hospitals to work profitably despite growing cost pressures in the industry. At the same time, with the help of standardised workflows, they can achieve consistent quality regardless of user variations. The DotGO MRI workflow technology helps Magnetom Sempra users respond flexibly to individual patient conditions, while simultaneously standardising examinations. So-called Dot engines automate and standardise workflows. The Brain, Spine and Large Joint engines come standard with the system, covering about 75% of a typical case mix. Dot engines are also available for more advanced examinations, further helping to avoid unnecessary rescans and increasing productivity. From start to finish, a complete brain examination can be performed on Magnetom Sempra in less than ten minutes. This helps both smaller practices and larger hospitals operate more efficiently while at the same time increasing patient comfort, due to shorter exam durations.
New Compressed Sensing acceleration technology
Compressed Sensing imaging technology offers impressive speed, heralding a paradigm shift in the clinical practice in MRI. It allows MRI scans to be carried out in only a fraction of the previous scanning time. For example, cardiac cine imaging of the heart which traditionally takes just under six minutes, involves multiple breath holds and is very difficult for patients can now be completed in as few as 25 seconds completely under free breathing, with the aid of the new Compressed Sensing Cardiac Cine applications. With this, patients who suffer from arrhythmia or who are unable to hold their breath will no longer have to be excluded from cardiac MRI, the gold standard of cardiac functional characterisation.
With the introduction of the new 3 Tesla MRI system Magnetom Vida, Siemens Healthineers expands the scope of Compressed Sensing applications. Abdominal MRI with dynamic contrast enhancement is known to be a complex exam involving multiple breath-holds, and the timing of contrast application as well as the start of sequences is critical. It now becomes a push-button, free-breathing examination with: Compressed Sensing Grasp-Vibe, which acquires everything in one continuous run without complex timing.
Innovative robot-supported Artis pheno angiography system
Artis pheno was developed for use in minimally invasive surgery, interventional radiology and interventional cardiology. The zen40HDR flat panel detector and the Gigalix X-ray tube give the system outstanding image quality. Compared to prior systems from Siemens Healthineers, its 2k imaging technology offers a fourfold increase in resolution for 2D imaging and likewise in comparison to prior Siemens Healthineers systems, up to 15 percent faster scan times in the body area. This is made possible by syngo DynaCT 3D imaging, which uses less contrast agent during the imaging process. The C-arm is 13 centimeters wider and has a free inner diameter of 95.5 centimeters, which offers more space for handling adipose patients and means longer instruments can be used without difficulty. The Siemens Healthineers multi-tilt table is also designed to accommodate patients weighing up to 280 kilograms. The robotic construction gives the Artis pheno a flexible isocenter, so it can represent the target area of the body from virtually any angle. The system supports effective hygiene management in the hospital thanks to its antimicrobial coating and a unique CleanGuide. Many additional optional application packages are available to suit the customers requirements as complex cases arise. For example, up to ten vertebrae can be represented in 3D using syngo DynaCT Large Volume, giving a larger overview during spinal fusion procedures. Using syngo DynaCT 360, it takes just six seconds for the Artis pheno to generate a large-volume image of the liver or lung, for example, including the anatomy of the tumor and the vessels leading to it, which provides effective support for transarterial chemoembolisation procedures.
Expanded PEPconnect platform provides customers access to education
To support highest patient satisfaction, best clinical outcomes and optimised workflows, education and professional development are also important elements. Siemens Healthineers has expanded its online learning platform PEPconnect (Personalised Education Plan) by about 1,000 new learning modules for medical imaging. Effective immediately, physicians and medical technology assistants can use PEPconnect to access training courses on Siemens Healthineers systems for imaging and minimally invasive therapy in seven different languages (English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Korean and Japanese). Previously, the training and professional development offered by PEPconnect focused mainly on laboratory diagnostics. The new modules for imaging now bring the number of learning modules on the platform to 7,000.
Ultrasound solution for liver patients and womens health
The Acuson S Family of ultrasound systems, Helx Evolution with Touch Control offers a unique solution tailored to help clinicians personalise the treatment to each liver patients individual disease state due to ultrasound diagnostic all in one room and on one system directly at the patients side. A comprehensive portfolio of advanced ultrasound applications includes for example quantification of liver stiffness using Virtual Touch quantification, eSieFusion multi-modality imaging to merge CT or MRT image data during realtime-intervention, and Cadence contrast imaging technology to delimit liver lesions. These technologies work together to enhance the clinical information needed to adapt to a liver patients unique condition. The Personalised Liver Ultrasound approach is supported by a quick, low-stress, and minimally invasive Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) testing to improve both workflow and patient care. The Siemens Healthineers ELF Blood test, combines three serum biomarkers, has been shown to correlate to the level of liver fibrosis assessed by liver biopsy.
Improve standardisation of particular data and workflow efficiencies with the 3D Total Breast Ultrasound solution comprised of the Acuson S2000 Automated Breast Volume Scanner (ABVS) and Syngo Ultrasound Breast Analysis software. This all-in-one system combines the power of 2D handheld and 3D automated whole breast ultrasound with advanced technologies such as Virtual Touch strain imaging, a visual representation of deformations in the tissue, and intelligent workflow solutions such as multi-modality review. So, Siemens Healthineers provides a comprehensive womens health ultrasound solution for the diagnosis of gynecological and prenatal diagnostics.
Natural health experts BetterYou have welcomed a recommendation by leading gastroenterology expert Isobel Mason, to take a vitamin D supplement to reduce Crohns flare-ups.
Lifestyle shot - DLux3000 Vitamin D oral Spray
Every 30 minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed with Crohns or Colitis (the two main forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease) and symptoms can often be similar to other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue.
As sufferers of the disease can have problems digesting and absorbing food due to the inflammation in the small intestine, vitamin deficiencies can occur regularly.
However, using a simple vitamin D oral spray has been proven to guarantee superior absorption than tablets, as the vitamin bypasses the digestive system and is delivered directly into the blood stream.
A study published by the BMJ Open Gastroenterology discovered a significant association between a patients vitamin D levels and the severity of their malabsorption issues.
Research, led by Dr Bernard Corfe, from the University of Sheffield's Molecular Gastroenterology Research Group, featured IBS patients taking a dose (3000 IU daily) vitamin D oral spray versus a placebo. Overall, supplementation significantly improved participants vitamin D levels and importantly the trial found that the negative impact on quality of life maybe reduced through vitamin D supplementation.
A study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry also found that low levels of vitamin D may increase the risk of developing Crohns disease, as a weak immune system can cause an increased inflammatory response, promoting the development of Crohns.
Public Health England announced last year that everyone should take vitamin D supplements in autumn and winter.
BetterYous DLux oral vitamin spray range offers convenience and guaranteed absorption which traditional tablets, capsules and drops (which all rely upon an increasingly inefficient digestive system) simply cant. An oral spray does not require water to take, does not need to be taken with food and is easy to use on the go.
Multiple trials have found that oral vitamin sprays elevate serum vitamin D levels on average 2.5 times more effectively than traditional tablets and capsules.
Dr Charles Heard, who lead the Cardiff University absorption trial, explains:
The ultra-fast uptake is due to the very absorbent tissue within the mouth and the close proximity of a rich vein network. In some cases, it is close to that of IV or intramuscular injections.
Andrew Thomas, founder and managing director at BetterYou, said:
Vitamin D deficiency can be easily corrected by supplementation and simple lifestyle changes. The DLux Oral sprays can provide the solution for those looking to boost low vitamin D levels in the blood which are associated with autoimmune diseases such as Crohns and Colitis.
BetterYou is proud to be working with scientists from the University of Sheffield, on a three-year clinical trial looking at the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the quality of life of people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
In older people with MS, having fatigue and limited leg function is more often seen in people with MS progression than in those without, according to a preliminary study released today that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 69th Annual Meeting in Boston, April 22 to 28, 2017.
"Study participants with those symptoms were more likely to progress from relapsing-remitting MS to secondary progressive MS within five years," said study author Bianca Weinstock-Guttman, MD, of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Buffalo in Buffalo, N.Y., and a member of the American Academy of Neurology. "Better understanding who is at high risk of getting worse may eventually allow us to tailor more specific treatments to these people."
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Approximately 80 to 85 percent of people with MS are initially diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS, which is marked by symptom flare-ups followed by periods of remission. Most people eventually transition to secondary progressive MS, which does not have wide swings in symptoms but instead a slow, steady, worsening of the disease.
While some medications have been shown to slow or even halt progression of relapsing-remitting MS, there are currently none shown to slow progression of secondary progressive MS.
For the study, 155 people age 50 or older who had relapsing-remitting MS for at least 15 years were evaluated for symptoms and level of disability at the beginning of the study and then again five years later, at which point they had been living with MS an average of 22 years.
In all, 30 percent of people in the study had progressed to secondary progressive MS by the five-year mark.
Those who progressed to secondary progressive MS were four times as likely to report having fatigue, 92 percent compared to 68 percent of people whose disease did not progress. The results were the same after researchers adjusted for other factors that could affect disease progression, such as age, how long people had the disease and how severe their disability was.
Those whose disease progressed were also three times as likely to have reported limitations in leg function, such as weakness and/or spasms, at the beginning of the study, 53 percent compared to 22 percent for those who didn't progress.
Those who progressed were older at the start of the study than those who did not progress, with an average age of 55 compared to 52. They also had a higher rate of disability at the beginning of the study as well as five years later.
"While more research needs to be done, this study brings us closer to understanding which older adults with MS may be at higher risk of getting worse," said Weinstock-Guttman. "With the aging population, this information will be vital as people with MS, their families and policy makers make decisions about their care."
TB Alliance and the broader TB community urge that the World Health Organization (WHO) add Mycobacterium tuberculosis to the critical group within the list of drug-resistant bacteria identified as urgent priorities for research and development.
The absence of TB from this list is shocking, said Mel Spigelman, President and C.E.O. of TB Alliance. The effort to develop new drugs to cure TB has always been chronically underfunded despite the diseases impact. TB is the world's deadliest infectious disease, killing 1.8 million people each year.
TB patients urgently need new and better antibiotics. Treatment for drug-resistant TB is long, toxic, complicated, and expensive. It can consist of more than two years of a dozen or more pills per day, along with six months of daily injections. And for those unfortunate enough to have extensively resistant TB, even if they take every one of those 20,000 toxic pills and hundreds of injections, they will still have less than a one in three chance of survival. Put simply, TB has evolved at a speed that outpaces our underfunded research community.
This year alone, approximately half a million people will develop drug-resistant TB. Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) is caused by TB bacteria that is resistant to at least isoniazid and rifampin, the two most potent TB drugs. Less than 20 percent of people with MDR-TB receive treatment; of that small fraction, about half are cured. To place the drug resistant TB situation in perspective, patients with Ebola, for whom there is no available drug therapy, have the same chances of survival that patients with drug-resistant TB patients have, accessing todays available medicines. MDR-TB is also the most contagious of all the pathogens noted on the WHOs list, spreading readily from person to person, and is especially dangerous to children, people with HIV, and other vulnerable populations.
About 29 percent of deaths caused by antimicrobial infections are due to drug-resistant TB, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. MDR-TB could cost the world $16.7 trillion by 2050, according to a study commissioned by the UK government. Last year's high-level meeting on AMR at the UN General Assembly affirmed that TB is critical to the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) agenda.
New tools, including vaccines, diagnostics, and treatments, cannot be developed without adequate resources, and the global TB community faces significant underfunding. The WHOs 2011-2015 Global Plan to Stop TB saw a five-year funding deficit of $2.5 billion, and 2015 saw the biggest decline in R&D funding for TB in over a decade. Even efforts to treat and prevent the disease are underfunded by almost $2 billion, according to the WHO.
Drug-resistant TB is an urgent and critical priority. Without more attention and new antibiotics, the disease will continue to wreak havoc among the worlds poorest communities. It is not enough to say that TB is being addressed by other health programs; drug-resistant TB is the biggest global threat in AMR and it must be recognized as such, especially by the WHO. The absence of TB from the WHO list is an irresponsible public health statement, sending the wrong message about global health priorities.
Every global effort to address the burgeoning AMR emergency must include TB, and the WHO should be taking a leadership role in this effort, starting with the inclusion of TB on the new WHO list of priority pathogens.
The next-generation of label-free chemical imaging has arrived. The Spero-QT, from Daylight Solutions, is the next breakthrough in high-performance mid-infrared microscopy offering high-resolution, real-time spectroscopic imaging for a wide range of applications from tablet and powder API monitoring to high-throughput digital histopathology.
The Spero-QT is powered by Daylight Solutions proven quantum cascade laser (QCL) technology and leverages key advances in uncooled FPA detectors and compound refraction based optics. As a photonics technology pioneer, Daylight Solutions has delivered more QCL-based mid-infrared systems to more applications world-wide than all others combined. With a highly-experienced team and field-proven, best-in-class family of products, we stand ready to help you with your most challenging of applications.
Choice of substrate and sampling mode
Due to strong IR absorption in traditional glass slides, it is best to mount samples onto slides or substrates that are IR transmissive such as calcium fluoride or barium fluoride. Calcium fluoride is the most commonly used substrate due to its lower cost but does suffer from higher attenuation at wavelengths higher than about 10 m (1000 cm-1).
An increasingly viable cost-effective alternative is to use thin polymer membranes made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) that are attached to windowed metal carriers. For IR imaging in reflection or transflection (light transverses the sample thickness twice) sampling mode, reflective MirrIR Low-E slides from Kevley Technologies are often the best choice.
Sample preparation
For transmission and transflection analysis, some consideration should be given to the sample thickness in order to maximize the spectral data quality. For any sample, the optimal sample thickness can be determined theoretically or experimentally by ensuring that the strongest recorded absorbance intensity does not exceed 4 AU.
For tissue analysis, a good rule of thumb is to cut microtomed sections between 8 12 microns for transmission experiments and approximately half this value for transflection experiments. For many polymers including PMMA films, samples up to 50 m can achieve good results.
Selecting a Reference Background
Like any infrared absorbance spectroscopy technique, a reference background should be acquired under similar conditions as the sample acquisition. This background is used to remove spectral contributions unrelated to the sample (e.g. contributions from the substrate, the atmosphere, or the instrument iteslf). This can be done easily by acquiring a background image from a clean area, of the sample. Ideally, the background should be recorded as close to the sample acquisition time as possible to remove minute contributions from the environment.
For liquid or live cell experiments, a background should account for the substrate and windows as well as the host solution which could be water or growth media. It is important to keep the thickness of the sample holder and liquid the same as for the sample collection. For transflection, an image of the IR reflective slide surface can be used and for direct reflectance measurement a background with the sample removed can be used.
A new background should be taken for each substrate and objective lens combination and retaken regularly (typically once per hour) to account for water vapor and other atmospheric changes.
Optimize your data collection parameters
Consider the spectral range and resolution needed for your analysis. For solid samples including tissue specimens as well as liquid samples, 4 cm-1 spectral resolution with 2 cm-1 data spacing is more than adequate spectral resolution. In many cases, resolution of 8 cm-1 and even lower are perfectly suitable and may result in better SNR.
Furthermore, ask yourself if you need the full range of spectral bandwidth. If you are working with large samples and throughput is important to you, you may consider reducing the number of spectral samples to include only those clustered about key spectral bands, for example those peaks associated with an API. In the Spero-QT, the tunable laser source can be easily programmed to target just the frequencies desired, thereby reducing acquisition time and data file size proportionately.
Analyze your data
After collecting a spectral cube, export the data into either ENVI or MATLAB file formats so that it may be easily loaded into a number of chemometrics software tools. We routinely use and recommend ImageLab made by Epina (Vienna, Austria), an image-based multi-sensor (see note below) chemometrics package.
For exploratory analyses, unsupervised techniques such as PCA, VCA and k-means clustering are excellent starting points. Ultimately, it is best to build custom classifiers based on supervised algorithms such as PLS-DA, ANN, SVM and Random Forest techniques, Here are 5 specific tips when performing your analysis:
Optimize the signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio of the spectral data byemploying techniques such as smoothing filters such as SavitzyGolay algorithm, PCA-reconstruction, or the minimum noise fraction (MNF) transform.
Employ quality (outlier) tests to ensure repeatability and reproducibility. Define thresholds for SNR or water vapor lines to remove sub-optimal spectra.
Spectral baselines can be distorted because of scattering. The application of a derivative filter can minimize baseline offsets or slopes and in addition enhance the spectral resolution of infrared spectra, allowing overlapping bands to be resolved.
Normalize your data to minimize the effects of varying optical path lengths on the data by using techniques include Min-Max, Vector and Standard Normal Variate (SNV) normalization.
Reduce the dimensionality of the data and perform feature selection. By encoding the chemical information into a smaller subset of spectral descriptors, multivariate models can become more robust while also resulting in faster computations.
About Daylight Solutions
Daylight Solutions molecular detection and imaging products consist primarily of lasers, sensors, and imaging systems, all of which leverage the companys mid-infrared, quantum cascade laser (QCL) technology. This core technology provides a versatile platform from which new products are developed, allowing the company to serve markets that include Scientific Research, Life Sciences, Defense, and Commercial.
The company is committed to innovation and introduced the worlds first broadly tunable mid-infrared laser system for scientific research, the worlds first semiconductor-based laser for protecting aircraft against shoulder-fired missiles, and the worlds first mid-infrared laser-based microscope for real-time biochemical imaging and material analysis.
Daylight Solutions consists of two separate business units. In 2009 the company created a wholly owned subsidiary to address the specific requirements of the defense industry. As a subsidiary, Daylight Defense developed the business and manufacturing infrastructure necessary to deliver classified, military-hardened products to the government. The Commercial business unit supports all other non-defense activities ranging from life sciences to industrial and consumer products.
Daylight Solutions and Daylight Defense are both ISO-9001 certified and possess advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Sponsored Content Policy: News-Medical.net publishes articles and related content that may be derived from sources where we have existing commercial relationships, provided such content adds value to the core editorial ethos of News-Medical.Net which is to educate and inform site visitors interested in medical research, science, medical devices and treatments.
Guess I won't be needing this no more LOL https://t.co/sWgvPz8X2s Pooja Bhatt (@PoojaB1972) March 2, 2017
He told her, "I love you kid." She responded, "I love you too pops. As far as I'm concerned, there is nothing else worth loving in the world." He replied, "If you love me then love yourself because I live in you."
"So when I drank, I drank copiously. Your appetite increases even as the alcohol does terrible things to your body, clutters your mind and colours your judgement of the people you're hanging out with."
Pooja Bhatt had been drinking since she was 16, but hasn't touched a drop of alcohol since she pulled the plug on December 24.Not before she turned 45, did she realise that its time for her to pull the plug and snap out of it.She smoked her first cigarette at 23 and has never done cocaine. But she was drinking at a rather tender age of 16. In an interview with Mumbai Mirror, the actor turned filmmaker opened up about her battle with alcohol addiction.She calls talking about her battle with the bottle openly in the public space being part of her catharsis.She wishes to bust the stigma attached to alcoholism in India and encourage women to seek help by debunking the stereotypes associated with alcoholic women and family prestige.In her case it was a chat with her father that led her to the decision.On December 21, Mahesh Bhatt messaged her from Delhi and they got talking about the state of the country, about leaders who in their eagerness to imprint their footsteps in the sands of time create absolute mayhem.Without having alluded to her problem, he made a difference by his sheer urge and plea to her to love herself.Pooja promised him that from that moment she would going to be the best "'me' I'm capable of being"."Alcohol is comforting, it colours your evening. It's a socially accepted narcotic even at business lunches and in the boardroom. Also, living in a fast-paced city, being in a high-stress profession, it becomes a reason to celebrate and cope with failure. Your film is a hit, you bathe in champagne, it flops, a single malt lessens the pain," she told Mumbai Mirror ..Pooja ended her 10-year long marriage two years ago, and did not give herself time to mourn. She moved on, and the world said cheers to her spirit and energy.Before she knew it, it was a whirlwind of hedonism.She'd seen what alcohol did to her father, how it had killed her parents' marriage.She'd been in relationship with an alcoholic.She'd lost a friend at 40 to alcohol and had a drink to mourn her.But all this while, it was someone else and not her going through the problem, she was in control.When her father urged, she looked into the mirror unflinchingly and embraced herself for whatever she had become, Pooja said.Being the daughter of an alcoholic makes one four times more susceptible to becoming one, she added.She didn't need to go to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) as she had strong support systems in her dad and her Cabaret director Kaustav (Narayan Niyogi).Today, Pooja has no problem being around anyone who drinks, has a fully stocked bar at home and even pours out drinks for friends.Each day strengthens her resolve as she realises she has more hours to a day now.She claims to feel lighter with the excess water gone and all the drama alcohol tends to bring is eliminated from her life.Her biggest victory was waking up to the news of her baby sister Alia Bhatt winning the Filmfare Best Actress Award.She messaged Alia saying normally this would have been an excuse for her to open a case of champagne first thing in the morning. But this time she celebrated by not drinking.
New Delhi: Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt landed in another controversy after his security guards allegedly manhandled media persons during 'Bhoomi' shoot in Agra on Friday.
Dutt along with co-star Aditi Rao Hydari was in Agra for shooting. Trouble started at VVIP road near Taj Mahal when a large number of people gathered to have a glimpse of shooting.
In the meantime, media persons also gathered there and suddenly the crowd went out of control. In the melee, his bouncers started pushing the crowd away and they even manhandled some of the media persons and allegedly snatched their camera, which led to a journalist registering a complaint against the film unit.
Later one of the injured journalists lodged an FIR with the Tajgunj, Agra police station. He alleged that he went to take few pictures of Dutt but suddenly his security and the local police assaulted him and other media persons.
The 57-year-old actor later apologised to journalists, saying had he been there, he would have stopped it.
"I want to make it clear that I was not even there on the set when it happened. I had already packed up and left for my hotel. But if I had been there, it would not have happened for sure. I would have sorted it out with a 'jaadu ki jhappi'. I even talked to the media people after the incident and apologised," Dutt told reporters during a press conference.
"I want to thank the people of Agra who have shown so much love to our film unit. I just want to say that I need your support. The city is being promoted through our film and if something like this happens, it is shameful for everyone," he said.
The actor was released from the Yerwada Central Jail in Pune on February 25, 2016 and this will be his first film after his release.
(With PTI inputs)
Hyderabad: Telangana police on Thursday arrested the Managing Director of a private hospital, along with the staff and parents after it came to light that they were involved in the illegal sale of a baby girl for Rs 35,000, in the outskirts of Hyderabad.
On credible information, police raided Telangana Multi Specialty Hospital in Ibrahimpatnam. During the investigation, RMP doctor Narella Shanker, also Managing Director and Srinivas, an administrator working at hospital confessed to selling the child to another couple with the help of a mediator.
The couple, Ravi and Varalaxmi, who did not have any child, decided to buy the newborn baby for an amount of Rs 35,000.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, LB Nagar said, "Shanker and Srinivas requested Vanitha and her husband Jawaharlal to sell the child.
"The parents were promised Rs 10,000 in return and the rest of the money was shared equally between the doctor, mediator and administrator. The couple agreed to sell their daughter as they already had two daughters," Nagar added.
Balala Hakkula Sangam, a child rights NGO criticised Women and Child Welfare Department for having failed to stop the illegal sale of babies in the state.
Activist Achyuta Rao told CNN News 18, "Trading of children has become as goods in the market. Government departments have failed in all aspects and they are least bothered in creating awareness among people. We demand strict action in such cases."
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday expressed concern over the rising number of farmer suicides stating that the direction adopted by the Centre was wrong to tackle the issue and a proper scheme in place was needed more than just paying compensation on the death of a farmer.
The court is hearing a PIL filed by NGO Citizens Resource and Action and Initiative, which has prayed for an overhaul of the agriculture policy and provisions for adequate compensation to farmers during drought and other natural calamities.
The plea had initially asked for directives to Gujarat government to pay a compensation of Rs 5 lakh each to families of 692 farmers who reportedly committed suicide in the state between January 2003 and October 2012.
SC on Friday remarked that the government was going wrong in some direction while dealing with such cases.
You should have schemes in place, giving grants to the family of a suicide victim is not the remedy. If you pay for the suicide, you are not dealing with the issue, remarked the Apex Court.
To this the counsel for the Centre submitted that schemes are being readied to tackle this issue.
We have made schemes giving insurances and also schemes to increase the income of the farmers. We are ensuring that farmers are not distraught and they have a place to approach, submitted the Centre who also said that Union government will soon discuss this with concerned departments and solution would be prepared in two weeks.
However the petitioners were not satisfied with the response of the Centre and criticized the promises made by them.
Centre has been giving promises but nothing has materialized. They should look at the price fixed for the crop. Farmers can only grow crops and in such a case, if there is a surplus then the price drops. This should be studied, said the petitioner.
The case has now been listed to March 27.
: The week-long visit of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama to Arunachal Pradesh next month will take place as scheduled, notwithstanding objections by China.The Dalai Lama will be in the north eastern state from April 4 to 13 and Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, among others, will meet him there.During his visit to Tawang bordering China, the spiritual leader will be hosted by the Buddhist Tawang monastery where he will be meeting his followers."The Dalai Lama will be a guest of the Arunachal Pradesh government and as a devotee, I will meet him in Tawang," Rijiju, who represents the Arunachal-West Lok Sabha constituency under which Tawang falls, said.Peeved over the proposed visit, China on Friday warned India against allowing him to visit Arunachal Pradesh, saying it would cause "serious damage" to the bilateral ties and peace in the "disputed" border region."China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said in Beijing.China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of Tibet and routinely objects to any visit by top leaders, officials and diplomats to the area.Rijiju, however, said the Dalai Lama is going to visit the state as a religious leader and there is no reason to stop him as his followers are demanding he should come. Asked about China's objections, Rijiju said the central government is run by a nationalist party which considers the country's interests first."We are neither going to be dominated by anyone nor shall we dominate any of our neighbours. But we give prime importance to India's interests," he said, without making any reference to China.Ignoring China's protests, the government had earlier allowed former US ambassador to India Richard Verma and Tibetan spiritual leader Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje's visit to Arunachal Pradesh last year.
: The death of an Indian Army soldier who appeared in a sting operation criticising the Sahayak (orderly) system has renewed calls to disband a system widely seen as a colonial relic.Roy Mathew, a soldier working as a Sahayak, was found dead in his barracks days after a sting video showed him criticising the orderly system.Reacting to Mathew's death, Nalin Talwar of the Sabka Sainik Sangarsh Committee (SSSC) has called for a police inquiry into his death, while Veer Bahadur Singh, the President of the Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOS), said "even servants are treated better than Sahayaks".Rajya Sabha MP Rajeev Chandrashekhar is of the opinion that use of Sahayaks at the homes of officers in times of peace was "in no way justified". "The Army themselves needs to take a deeper look and put a stop to this system. Sahayaks are being used in positions that are not required. The Army should start a real debate on dismantling the Sahayak system," he said.Speaking to CNN-News18, Commodore (R) GJ Singh, a defence expert, has called for a "healing touch". "We are an independent country, customs have changed, education level has changed. There should be a healing touch for jawans."Here's a look at the controversial Sahayak system:Sahayaks are attached to Army officers when serving with units or headquarters functioning on war establishment- One Sahayak is attached to every field officer or an officer of a higher rank- One Sahayak is attached to every two officers of the rank of captain and below- One Sahayak for every Subedar Major- One Sahayak for every two Junior Commissioned Officers of the rank of Subedar and belowAccording to a House Panel, the Sahayak system is "demeaning and humiliating" and lowers the self-esteem of a jawan."Soldiers are recruited to serve the nation, and not to serve the family members of officers in household work Jawans are not technically supposed to attend to the household duties at the residence of the officers," it said.It's a "shameful practice which should have no place in the independent India... Any officer found to be violating the instruction in this regard be dealt with severely," it had added.- Standing committee on Defence, 31st Report, 2008-09- Ministry of Defence written note to house panel
Tirupati: The famous hill shrine of Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh has received over Rs 8 crore in demonetised 500 and 1,000 rupee old notes from devotees in its 'hundi' in 2017.
According to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) - which manages the temple - in last 61 days (from December 31 to March 1) nearly Rs 8.29 crore of old 500 and 1000 notes have been collected in the Hundi.
Now, the temple management is facing problem in depositing these notes. The banks have stopped accepting demonetised currency post December 30.
TTD Executive Officer D Sambasiva Rao told CNN-News 18, "Till December 30, we have deposited all notes. But after that all old notes are being kept in treasury as banks are not accepting, saying it is invalid currency. These old notes are coming in Hundi, which we have no control and also we cannot stop anyone from depositing it."
The temple administration has even written to the government and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) seeking a solution to the problem. They are still awaiting reply as to what they should do with demonetised currency deposited in 'Hundi'.
Every year lakhs of devotees - thronging the temple from various parts of the country - continued to offer the junked currency in the 'Hundi' along with valid notes even after the deadline for exchange of demonetised notes expired on December 30.
The 'Hundi' in the shrine annually nets more than Rs 1,000 crore besides gold and silver offerings, temple officials said.
Centre has notified a law that makes holding of more than 10 scrapped notes punishable with a minimum fine of Rs 10,000.
New Delhi: The Pakistani government was not considering extraditing alleged "Indian spy" Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was arrested for his alleged involvement in "subversive activities" in Pakistan, Pakistan Foreign Affairs Advisor Sartaj Aziz said, according to Dawn Online.
Aziz told the Senate that Pakistan never said there was any lack of evidence against him. "We have filed an FIR and prepared a case to prosecute Indian state actor for his subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan," he said.
Aziz said Islamabad has shared a dossier with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on New Delhi's involvement in internal affairs of Pakistan, and in subversive and terrorist activities in the country.
"The dossier prepared by Pakistan includes details of Kulbhushan Jadhav, and his activities."
When asked if the government was planning to give the same 'red carpet' treatment to Jadhav, which they gave to CIA contractor Raymond Davis, Aziz explained: "It has never been said that there was any lack of evidence against him."
The Pakistan Army had earlier released a "confessional video" of Jadhav, in which he said he was a serving Indian Navy officer.
India has acknowledged Jadhav as a retired Indian Navy officer, but denied that he was in any way connected to the government.
The Advisor also informed the dossier was prepared on the basis of thorough ground work and inputs from various departments.
According to Geo Tv, the dossier was a way forward to work on the prosecution of Jadhav.
"This is very delicate and sensitive issue and requires detailed preparations and home work as it relates to direct or indirect involvement of Indian state actor in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan."
He said Pakistan's view point on this issue is being accepted internationally and the government has also sent a list of questions to the Indian government on this matter.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Senator Aitzaz Ahsan said: "I had announced that if Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif mentions Jadhav's name in his speech, I will donate Rs 50,000 to Pakistan Association of the Blind."
When asked if Sharif had spoken about Jadhav, Aziz said: "When the time is appropriate, the Prime Minister will speak about him."
(With inputs from IANS)
: Airports in Uttar Pradesh and the Immigration Department have been alerted by authorities amid reports that rape accused UP minister Gayatri Pajapati was planning to flee the country.Sources told CNN-News18 that Prajapati was planning to escape the country and that all forces have been put on high alert. The Immigration Department has been told not to cooperate with him, a source added.A Letter of Cancellation (LC) will soon be opened against him and all airports have been alerted to prevent the 49-year-old Prajapati from fleeing the country, PTI quoted an official as saying.A letter of cancellation is a technical term used for alerting immigration authorities about any possible move by a suspect to leave the country.Whenever passport of the suspect comes for immigration clearance at any exit point of the country, the computer screen warns the official to not let the person leave.The Sashtra Seema Bal (SSB), guarding Uttar Pradesh's border with Nepal, has also been alerted about the possiblity of such a move by Prajapati.Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on Friday came out all guns blazing against those alleging that the CM was shielding the tainted Samajwadi Party (SP) leader.Also Read: In a First, Dimple to Share Stage With Akhilesh, Rahul in Varanasi Tomorrow Challenging his critics, Akhilesh said, "Anyone can come to my residence with camera and check if I was shielding anybody," adding that his "government will cooperate in every possible way and justice will be served".Prajapati is accused in separate cases of gang rape and an attempt to rape another woman and her minor daughter. He has remained elusive and the Lucknow Police have initated steps to withdraw his 'Y' category security.Also read: Akhilesh Yadav Junks PM Modi's Claim of ISI Role in Kanpur Train Mishap Interestingly though, the minister was seen moving freely from one place to other in his constituency seeking votes.The last time Prajapati was seen in public was on February 27, when he spoke to the media saying he will win with a huge margin and will work under Akhilesh once again.The 49-year-old is facing imminent arrest following an FIR lodged against him and six of his accomplices on the apex court's order at Gautampalli police station in the state capital on February 18 under various sections of the IPC and POCSO Act.(With inputs from PTI)
Thiruvananthapuram: In an attempt to bring patients back into government hospitals, the Pinarayi Vijayan-led Kerala government has recommitted itself to distribute free medicines for non-communicable diseases, diabetes and hypertension, state health secretary Rajeev Sadanandan told News18 on Friday.
"We were already providing free medicines for non-communicable diseases in primary health care," said Sadanandan, "We're making the system more watertight now."
This, the state aims to do through revamping and strengthening its primary health care facilities, as announced in the state budget on March 3.
On March 3, during the presentation of the budget, the state government made it clear that it wants to revamp and strengthen its primary health care facilities.
The state budget focusses on the Aardram Mission that will give "shape to a public health movement cantered at several Primary Health Centres (PHCs)." The "major thrust" of this mission, launched in February this year, said Sadanandan, is to convert 170 PHCs to Family Health Centres, in a pilot phase. For this, 510 additional doctors and nurses -- one doctor and two nurses per centre -- will be hired by the state. "Thus a primary health level, based on defensive method to control infectious diseases and lifestyle diseases, will be created to provide free treatment to lifestyle diseases" announced in the budget. The free medicines are required for the pharmacological management of these diseases.
India has repeatedly been called the diabetes capital of the world, and the coastal state has been witnessing rise in price of diabetes medicines over the past few years. It has doubled the incidence rate in the rest of the country. Reportedly, 22 percent of its population over 25 years of age has been diagnosed with the disease.
Sadanandan pointed out that only 34 percent of people in Kerala accessed care in government facilities while the rest still went to private hospitals or clinics. The reason for this, he said, according to the National Family Health Service, was that people often found government hospitals to be crowded and lacking speciality services. Hence, to bring a majority of people back to government health care the mission will provide specialty services in sub-district or taluka hospitals, and super speciality services, such as cardiology, neurology and nephrology, in district hospitals. For this, an amount of Rs 2,000 crore has been sanctioned for District Taluk and General Hospitals.
Additionally, an intensive programme will be implemented for eradicating leprosy and elephantiasis, and Rs 1 crore has been earmarked for helping the ailing elephantiasis patients. The government has targeted eliminating these diseases by 2020.
The budget, for the first time ever, announced a large subsidy for immunosuppressant drugs needed by organ transplant patients. This, Sadanandan pointed out, was the new and innovative provision in the budget. Generally expensive, these drugs will be provided at 10 percent discount on marked prices and Kerala State Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited will manufacture them. The state has also earmarked Rs 10 crore to fund purchase of additional machinery as working capital.
Lucknow: The BJP on Thursday urged the EC to deploy women force at polling booths in the last two phases of the UP Assembly polls to check identity of burqa-clad female voters and prevent bogus voting, leaving some Muslim bodies fuming.
In a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, the party said, "The BJP demands that to establish the identity of burqa-clad female voters in the sixth and seventh phase of the UP polls, women police and central paramilitary forces be posted at sensitive and hyper-sensitive polling booths".
BJP leaders J P S Rathore and Kuldeep Pati Tripathi said in the letter that a large number of burqa-clad women exercise their franchise and there was a possibility of false voting.
"Adequate deployment of female police would ensure proper checking of women voters, and at the same time, minimising incidents of bogus voting," they said.
A large number of constituencies going to polls in the last two rounds on March 4 and 8 fall in Muslim-dominated districts of eastern Uttar Pradesh.
The demand by the saffron party, however, did not go down well with Muslim organisations, with some of them accusing BJP of deliberately indulging in "polarisation politics".
Mahila Muslim Personal Law Board Chairperson Shaista Amber said, "Till now, the election and voting process have been rather smooth, and the Election Commission deserves a round of applause for this. However, in a bid to polarise the votes in the sixth and seventh phase, the BJP has now come up with this strange demand".
She said this act of BJP smacked of its "sick mentality".
"Whether a woman is wearing burqa or ghoonghat, no one has the right to offend her womanhood and dignity," she said.
Shia Personal Law Board spokesperson Yassob Abbas said, "This is a deliberate tactic of the BJP to polarise the votes.
We would not tolerate even an iota of insult to burqa."
He said even non-Muslim women living in villages wear 'pallu' (veil).
"Will the pallu (of non-Muslim women) be removed to check and verify their identity?" he asked, adding "It is better not to do any politics over burqa".
Senior member of All India Muslim Personal Law Board Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali said, "Ever since the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections have started, a conscious attempt has been made to target Muslim women".
"It started with triple talaq, which has fallen flat on the face of the BJP," he said.
He also said that as per the laid down provisions of law, a voter is allowed to cast his or her vote only after the poll official cross-checks and verifies the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) card.
"I think that there is a planned attempt to keep Muslim women voters away from voting," he said.
Saharanpur-based Islamic seminary of Darul Uloom Deoband refused to comment.
Muslims make up around 19-20 per cent of UP's population of nearly 200 million.
Out of 403 assembly constituencies in UP, there are nearly 120 seats where the percentage of Muslim voters is more than 20 per cent (Muslim-dominated seats) and in certain parts of eastern UP, their population is up to 27 per cent.
New Delhi: An Indian Army soldier Roy Mathew, who was seen in a sting operation criticising 'Sahayak'(Orderly) system, was on Thursday found dead in a barrack in Maharashtra's in Deolali Cantonment.
The Army has said the jawan committed suicide and that he had been missing since February 25. Mathew, a native of Kerala's Kollam district, was also believed to be "mentally disturbed."
The sting operation that was run by a news website on February 24 created an uproar over the British era Sahayak system. Following that, Roy went missing and he was marked Absent Without Leave (AWL).
According to sources, the victim talked to his wife about being under stress a day after sting was aired, sent an apology to his officer through SMS on Feb 25, and went missing the same night.
Sources in the Army told CNN-News18 that till Thursday morning Roy's unit was not aware that he was the one featured in the video since the faces were blurred.
The sources also pointed out that hence the question of him being pulled up by officers of the unit doesn't arise.
Meanwhile, reacting to Mathew's death, Nalin Talwar of Sabka Sainik Sangarsh Commitee (SSSC)called for an enquiry by the police.
"There should be an enquiry by the police and the government should also appoint a retired judge to conduct the probe. These incidents are on the rise and Sahayak system should be scrapped," he said.
Nalin added, "This is a sad incident and it's worng. I don't agree with the Army's Version. This is Tej bahadur part 2. Armies all over the world are taking care of themselves, why cant Indian Army do it?"
Speaking to CNN-News18, Commodore (R) GJ Singh, Defence Expert said, "We are an independent country, customs have changed, education level has changed. There should be a healing touch for jawan."
Commando 2 is the kind of movie where were introduced to the hero with a close-up of his bulging bicep, even before we see his face. Vidyut Jammval is the impressive action star in this thriller, but for all the kicks, the back flips, the sliding through tiny spaces in the nick of time, and the slow-motion flying-in-the-air stunts, this film lacks punch. It takes superhuman strength to stop yourself from nodding off to sleep, because Commando 2 just goes round and round in convoluted circles.The makers shrewdly attempt to cash in on hot-button issues like demonetization and farmers suicides, but to be entirely honest this is a bargain basement version of an Abbas-Mustan film with a simplistic plot and logic-defying twists.Commando Karan (Vidyut) and a motley team are put together to bring back a famed money launderer by the name of Vicky Chaddha who is hiding out overseas. The idea is for the Indian government to get hold of crores of rupees in black money, and to use it for the good of the country before slimy businessmen and slimier politicians (Shefali Shah) can get their hands on it.The team heads to Bangkok in pursuit of Chaddha, but this plot is more twisted than a pretzel and you wish you had Commando Karans energy to just keep up with whats going on. His team includes the usual computer nerd (Sumit Gulati), a hard-nosed cop who switches sides in an instant (Freddy Daruwala), and a motor-mouth encounter specialist (Adah Sharma) whos so ditzy you cant help chuckling at some of her low-IQ one-liners. Esha Gupta, whose endless supply of sexy gowns and accessories is way more entertaining than her trite dialogues, plays the token vixen with mysterious motives.Director Deven Bhojani ought to have cut the flab out of this movie and made it, metaphorically speaking, as tight as his leading mans abs. Vidyut does a crazy, eye-popping number of stunts including one in which he slips effortlessly through a cubby hole but the action feels overlong and repetitive since its in service of a frankly underwhelming plot. And while Vidyut may flex his muscles like few can, his acting chops need work.Im going with a generous two out of five for Commando 2. This film gets tiring very quickly. Sadly, it feels as pointless as a demonetized 500-rupee note.Rating: 2 / 5Write your review of Commando 2 here.What's your review of Commando 2?
Image: Youtube/ A still from Commando 2: The Black Trail trailer
You know what youve signed up for when a film begins with 5 minutes of pure action gravity-defying moves, bone-crunching punches and some swift acrobatics. Commando 2: The Black Money Trail is basically quite a dramatic lowdown of what goes on when a man sets his mind on hunting a black-money agent and eradicating the laundered money from circulation.Helmed by Deven Bhojani, the film focusses on Captain Karnvir Singh Dogras (Vidyut Jammwal) battle against the whole idea of black money and one launderer Vicky Chadha in particular. But this time its a team comprising of inspector Bhawna Reddy (Adah Sharma), cop Bakhtawar (Freddy Daruwala) and Zafar, working in tandem with the PMO, and set out on the mission in Malaysia. It begins with reference to PM Modis demonetisation drive of course, and lands into an imaginary world of action heroes and villains. Vicky Chadha, the man whos touted to be Indias biggest black-money agent is husband to a glamourous woman Maria (Esha Gupta). The story starts unfolding when the two teams meet each other and starts delving deeper into each others secrets and planning.In the first part Commando: A One Man Army it was mostly a man pursing goodwill and in the second, its a full-fledged special undercover team. What remains, however, is Vidyuts strong grip on action-packed sequences. The man offers the perfect treat in some scenes, but makes it unbelievable in others. He packs a punch, glides his way through, kicks some butts and is also successful in sporting his well-chiselled body. His action scenes are high-octane, but he wavers a bit while delivering lines and thats what makes his character a bit unconvincing.Adah Sharma as Hyderabadi-based Bhawna Reddy tries her best to be funny but is often let down by predictable jokes. Her improper language skills and a fake and forced accent further blurs her character as an inspector. A cop who killed a criminal for a Gucci bag her entire screen time is like a testament to this line. Freddy Daruwala maintains a constant expression all through-out and honestly, its like those forced serious looks that eventually end up in laughter. Esha Gupta, who plays Vickys wife, is plotwise one of the highest points of the film and acting-wise, one of the lowest. She emotes when it isnt required and gives a blank stare when the scene demands a gamut of emotions.While watching Adah and Esha onscreen one realises an inevitable part about Bollywood movies. One, an undercover agent trailing a criminal in 5-inch wedges and second, a seductress villain controlling the entire game are things Bollywoods formula action thrillers cant do without.Satish Kaushik, Shefali Shah and Adil Hussain work only because of their inadvertent strong screen presence, but their true acting potential remains untapped in this film.The film has quite an intriguing plot makes you interested in knowing whatll happen next. The twists and turns keep the thrill alive, but soon the film loses its grip amid its own climaxes. Its a well-thought film, but not a well-woven one. Plus, the dialogues are a little too cliched to pull an action-thriller forward.Youd like to spend on this one only if youre either a die-hard Vidyut Jammwal fan or - no, thats it.
La La Land director Damien Chazelle and Moonlight helmer Barry Jenkins thought the goof-up that led to the wrong film being announced as the Best Picture at the 89th Academy Awards, was a prank.Actor-filmmaker Warren Beatty and actress Faye Dunaway presented the Best Picture award of the gala to La La Land instead of the real winner -- Moonlight, at the award ceremony on February 26."Everything looked so energised. I, at first, thought there was some kind of prank going on," Chazelle told variety.com.Jenkins said: "It's messy, but it's kind of gorgeous. You have these two groups of people who came together for a second. There's a picture with me hugging (La La Land producer) Jordan (Horowitz), and (Moonlight producer) Adele (Romanski) has her arm on his shoulder. That's what the moment was."What was strange for Jenkins was that he quickly had to change his emotions and deliver an acceptance speech for an Oscar only minutes earlier."I had something that I had prepared to say, and that thing went completely out the window."I've been saying that (co-writer) Tarell (Alvin McCraney) and I are that kid in the film, and that kid does not grow up to make a piece of art that gets eight Academy Award nominations," Jenkins said."It's a dream I never allowed myself to have. When we were sitting there, and that dream of winning didn't come true, I took it off the table. But then I had to very quickly get back into that place. And my first thought was to get to the stage to give Jordan a hug as quickly as possible," he added.The moment was handled gracefully."It's weird to be friendly with someone, but to feel like there's a mano-a-mano thing, which I guess is the nature of the Oscars," Chazelle said."So it was nice to explode that myth a little bit on a big stage," he added.
Early birthday celebration with the family before I leave tonight!!! Best times!!!!! A post shared by Shraddha ~ (@shraddhakapoor) on Mar 1, 2017 at 8:20am PST
Early birthday cake cutting today with Raju!! pic.twitter.com/oPov57kfXc Shraddha (@ShraddhaKapoor) March 1, 2017
Shraddha spotted at the airport on Wednesday night. Photo by Yogen Shah
Sharddha Kapoor turned 30 on 3rd March. But the celebrations began two days in advance as she celebrated with her staff and her family at her home. The actress posted a photo of the celebration on her social media platform and captioned it as "Early birthday celebration with the family before I leave tonight!!! Best times!!!!!(sic)"The actress later left for a 10-days long vacation in the Europe with her friends. Sources close to the actress state that she wanted to ring in her birthday in Europe with friends and hence left a day before the big day. The actress, who was last seen in Ok Jaanu, has been busy shooting for Apurva Lakhia's Haseena and the actress had been looking forward to the break.The family get together was reportedly planned by her mother who ensured that it was small, intimate gathering of family members.
This is the first time Dimple Yadav is holding a rally in Azamgarh, her father-in-law Mulayam Singh Yadav's constituency, in Poorvanchal. Mulayam Singh has not campaigned for anyone, except for his brother Shivpal, and his younger daughter-in-law, Aparna.
On Saturday, for the first time, Dimple will be accompanying UP CM Akhilesh Yadav and Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi in a road show in Varanasi.
"Do you see Dial 100 police vans parked on the road? Ye vans kali is liye hein ki inko bahar waalo ki nazar na lag jaye (they are black so that they could be saved from evil eyes)," she says, hitting out indirectly at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.
The crowd is getting restless in Azamgarh. Bechai Saroj, the SP candidate from Lalgunj in Azamgarh, stands with folded hands and pleads with the crowd to calm down as they await Dimple Yadavs first address of the day.Clad in pale lemon saree, she walks up to the podium, accompanied by SP spokesperson Juhi Singh. The surging crowd gives a determined push to the pickets and barricades on the flank only to meet a posse of equally determined policemen to repel the thrust.Husband Akhilesh held seven rallies in the district in a single day, earlier this week. He could not touch Lalgunj, so Dimple is here to seek votes for party candidate and sitting MLA Bechai Saroj."Aapan bhaiya ka jitai hein ki na," she starts her speech haltingly in Bhojpuri to a rapturous applause from the crowd. All this while, Bechai Ram stands beside her, his hands folded to the crowd.This election Dimple Yadav has been trying to fill that void left by near total absence of her father-in-law from campaigning. The target voter is clearly not confined to SP's core Muslim-Yadav constituency.The MP from Kannauj speaks primarily on three issues. Law and order, development, and women.With Mulayam not venturing out of Lucknow this time around, Dimple has had to hit the campaign trail from the second phase onwards. She has so far held close to two dozen meetings.In the last two phases, Akhilesh has, perhaps, faced the stiffest challenge in this multiphased election. Poorvanchal has been to Mulayam, what Western UP is to BSP.If SP could still manage 100-odd seats in 2007, despite a slump, it was here in Poorvanchal that Mulayam could restrict a BSP on a rampage.Similarly, Maya could mop up 80 seats in 2012 in the next election, only by fortifying herself in the districts West of Muradabad.At Dimple's rally in Lalgunj, the crowd is predominantly youth.Avdhesh Upadhyay, a middle-aged school teacher watching the proceedings from sidelines, is keenly observing for minority faces in the crowd."This rally was very important in determining which way minorities will go. They wanted to see if Yadavs, despite Mulayam's absence, are mobilised behind Akhilesh or not. Looking at this crowd, this settles the issue," he says, with a mischievous glint in his eyes.And, for those who have seen Mulayam operate in the past, would well appreciate the minute observation. In every election in Yadav-dominated areas, whenever there was a chink in the SP armour, Mulayam would descend on the final or the penultimate day of the campaign. It would be a vintage Mulayam performance.He would take the stage. Looking at his wristwatch, Mulayam was always a man in a hurry in election season. Cutting short all the other speakers, he would take the mike straight away. His chopper would be air-borne in half-an-hour. But in those thirty minutes, his core constituency would know where to vote no matter which way the wind was blowing.This election, in Mulayam's absence, and with Congress increasingly taking the back seat in the campaign, the alliance is relying heavily on its two star pracharaks, Akhilesh and Dimple Yadav.So every day, Dimple Yadav takes the chopper to constituencies where bhaiya can't reach. For lunch, she carries her home cooked food along and returns to Lucknow by evening.Back home, she holds meeting with spokespersons to discuss the media line for the evening debates. Tomorrow would be another day and another day of campaigning in the last phase of UP polls.
In yet another setback to VK Sasikala, who is currently jailed in a corruption case, the Election Commission has rejected the AIAMDKs response on her elevation as the party general secretary.The poll panel said her nephew and signatory TTV Dinakaran was not in its list of party office bearers.The Election Commission had on February 17 sent a notice to the ruling party in Tamil Nadu, asking Sasikala to respond to a petition filed by the rival O Panneerselvam camp against her appointment as AIADMK interim general secretary.The EC had, while issuing the notice, made it clear that if she failed to answer, it will be "presumed" that she has no comments to offer and proceed in the matter accordingly. The Commission had sent the notice to Sasikala, currently lodged in a Bengaluru prison, and sought her response.In its reply on February 28, the AIADMK defended the decision saying the general council of the party had the authority to make such an appointment.The AIADMK also said those who later complained against Sasikala's elevation had initially signed the resolution in her support. The party told the Commission that the functioning of the party would have come to a standstill had a new general secretary not been appointed after the demise of then chief minister J Jayalalithaa.The reply was signed by TTV Dinakaran, Sasikala's nephew, who was hurriedly re-inducted into the party and nominated AIADMK deputy general secretary just before she left for a Karnataka prison to serve her remaining term in a disproportionate assets case.The Panneerselvam faction of the AIADMK had moved the Commission challenging Sasikala's election, claiming it was done in violation of the norms.In its 42-page petition, the delegation had claimed Sasikala's election was violative of the party constitution as she was chosen by the general council of the party and not the primary members.It said the general council was empowered to frame policies and programmes but it cannot elect someone as general secretary.(With PTI inputs)
: Tightening the noose around the private healthcare sector of the state, the West Bengal state Assembly passed The West Bengal Clinical Establishments (Registration, Regulation and Transparency) Bill, 2017, amid CM Mamata Banerjees claim that when enacted the law would serve as a model for the rest of the country.The Opposition, however, charged Banerjee with plagiarising the existing West Bengal Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010, which the Bill sought to repeal, and alleged that the chief minister was simply playing to the gallery.This is simply old wine in new bottle. Most of the content in the Bill already existed. The words are exactly the same. If the chief minister was serious about the ailments that plague private healthcare, she should have implemented the existing law and strengthened it by making amendments, said Sujan Chakraborty, CPI-M leader, whose proposed amendments to the Bill were ignored by the ruling Trinamool Congress.However, while defending the Bill on the Assembly floor, Trinamool leader Mahua Maitra argued: The 2010 Act only laid stress on the documentation of establishments. This Bill focuses on their transparency. Thats the primary difference.The clinical establishment regulatory commission, missing in the earlier Act, but proposes to set up in the current bill, will have enough powers to reign in offenders. Binding all the mandatory obligations which this Bill enforces on private hospitals, along with the licensing clause of these establishments, make way for its fundamental difference with the ineffective law that existed, she asserted.The Government is deeply concerned about the lack of transparency in the functioning of clinical establishments in general and private hospitals or nursing homes in particular, resulting in unnecessary and avoidable harassment and exploitation of patients (service recipients). It is logical that clinical establishments would levy fees and charges for the services they provide. But such charges should be reasonable with the objective of covering the cost of provision of services besides generating a decent surplus. The government is of the view that healthcare service is not a commercial proposition; it is a service or seva, which should be delivered to service recipients with humility and human touch. Life is precious and there can be no monetary value attached to human health, read the Statement of Object and Reasons of the Bill.Setting up a high-powered Clinical Establishment Regulatory Commission which would monitor, regulate, and supervise the functions of private healthcare facilities in the state. It would also enforce transparency at these establishments.The Commission would be empowered to fix rates and charges for treatments at both outdoor and indoor patient departments, including diagnostics.The commission would also award compensation to victims of negligent treatment at the private facilities not exceeding Rs 50 lakh.In the eventuality of negligent treatment, the hospitals would be liable to compensate victims with up to Rs 3 lakhs for simple injury, up to Rs 5 lakhs for grievous injury and not less than Rs 10 lakhs in case of death.Civil courts would have no jurisdiction over action taken by the Commission and aggrieved parties can only seek redress at High Courts or the Supreme Court of this country.The hospitals will be bound to treat victims of road accidents, persons suffering from sudden calamities, acid attacks and rape victims irrespective of their ability to bear treatment costs. Hospitals would also be bound to release dead bodies of patients in the eventuality of relatives inability to pay full treatment costs.The establishments will have to strictly follow fixed rates and charges for treatment, including package rates, and would have to provide proper estimates for treatment costs not covered in fixed rates. The final bill cannot exceed estimates by a certain percentage that would be settled by the government.The hospitals would have to strictly discourage repetitive lab tests on patients, unless essential and must mandatorily obtain consent of patient party for continuation of ventilation support to a patient after brain death.The recent spate of incidents involving alleged malpractices and treatment negligence in private healthcare facilities of Bengal, including those at some of the top-end private hospitals of Kolkata prompted Banerjee, who also doubles up as the state health minister, to call for a meeting of representatives of private hospitals on 22 February. The meeting was widely televised and Banerjee rebuked the management representatives on grounds of inflated bills, non-transparency, treatment negligence and inhuman behaviour with patients.The current Bill, Banerjee said, was a step forward in the direction to ensure transparency and accountability of the private healthcare sector which had so far remained largely out of government scanners. She has, doubtless, enjoyed wide popular support in the process. But there are apprehensions, albeit mellowed down for the time being, as to whether the move would hamper investments in the sector.Questions have also been raised on whether the similar monitoring should also be extended to public healthcare facilities in the state which allegedly suffer from most of the above ailments. Banerjee has, however, rubbished the possibility.Our public healthcare system has its own checks and balances in place which are thorough, she said on the floor of the Assembly on Friday.Banerjee has, however, announced her intention to extend her monitoring over the private education sector and vehicular traffic laws of West Bengal.
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Taipei, March 3 (CNA) Academic freedom is a constitutionally protected right that cannot be constricted or violated for any reason, a Presidential Office spokesman said Friday, in the wake of reports that several Taiwanese universities have signed pledges promising to abide by the "one China" principle, at the request of the Chinese side.
It was a gathering of whos who of Maharashtra politics when BJP MLA Santosh Danve, the son of state BJP chief Raosaheb Danve, tied the knot on Thursday evening.The lavish wedding was attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, former Chief Minister Narayan Rane, Leader of Opposition in Legislative Council Dhananjay Munde and several Union and Maharashtra ministers."We were all waiting for last two years when will Santosh get married," Fadnavis told the gathering from the wedding stage, which had a large palace-like set.The expensive affair, however, raised a eyebrows with social activist Anjali Damania questioning the source of funds for the event."I am wondering from where does the money for such a lavish wedding come from," PTI quoted her as saying.(Photos: Pradesh 18)
Jaipur: From Akbar The Great to just Akbar and now Akbar, The Aatankkari thats how the Mughal emperors identity seems to have mutated for Rajasthan Education Minister Vasudev Devnani.
Addressing the media on Friday, Devnani called Akbar an aatankkari his way of replying to a letter threatening him with dire consequences for changing the name of Akbar Fort to Ajmer Fort in his Ajmer constituency.
The typed letter was sent by post to the ministers Ajmer address on December 16 but was received about three weeks ago. The letter, signed as Tarannum Chishti, threatened Devnani with strict action if he did not change the forts name back to Akbar Fort. It also asked him to treat people equally and show inclusiveness as a political leader.
The threat letter also found mention in the Assembly on Friday and Devnani said he had handed the letter over to police two weeks ago.
I had asked for Akbar Fort in Ajmer to be called Ajmer Fort. Since I am a nationalist, I believe wherever there are names of aatankkaris, they should be changed within the framework of the Constitution, Devnani said.
"I put forward my point of view from a nationalistic perspective on various issues which is why someone seems to have written this sort of a letter, he added.
Ajmer Police are now investigating the matter and trying to track down the sender on the basis of the dispatch stamp. We are inquiring into the matter, SP Ajmer Nitin Deep told CNN-News18.
The minister has been at the centre of a host of controversies, including dropping the suffix The Great from Akbars name and adding it to Maharana Prataps instead. His emphasis on indigenous people of prominence in textbooks over foreigners like Isaac Newton and Pythagoras had also been criticized.
Kundan who made controversial statement at Ujjain protest mtg has been relieved of his responsibility in RSS: Dr MM Vaidya pic.twitter.com/4t1emJH5PT RSS (@RSSorg) March 3, 2017
"I was pained on the issue of murders of Swayamsevaks and therefore made an emotional statement. I retract it (statement) and express my regret," Chandravat said in a statement late on Thursday.
Open threat to behead someone, Another to burn down theatres..Will there be strict action taken against these guys for instigating violence? https://t.co/aKLHPQp17V arvind swami (@thearvindswami) March 3, 2017
The RSS on Friday sacked its functionary Kundan Chandravat who had sparked a controversy by announcing a Rs 1 crore bounty on Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.Late on Friday, Chandravat was also booked for on charges of inciting violence under Section 505 of the IPC.The developments came a day after Chandravat retracted his controversial statement."Chandravat's controversial statement has created a wrong impression about the Sangh. He has been removed from all posts," RSS's Madhya Pradesh state head Prakash Shastri said in a letter announcing his removal.Under fire, Chandravat was forced to retract the statement late on Thursday."I also got some phone calls from Kerala in which an unidentified caller threatened to kill me," he claimed. Chandravat, in a meeting in Ujjain, had announced the bounty to avenge the killing of RSS workers in Kerala, allegedly by CPI(M) workers.His speech had sparked an uproar, drawing condemnation from the RSS, the CPI(M) and the Congress.In a video, which went viral, Chandravat is purportedly seen saying that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is behind the killing of RSS workers there and he will pay Rs 1 crore to anyone who beheads him.The RSS was quick to condemn Chandravat's statement, stating the organisation did not believe in violence."The RSS strongly condemns such statement. The Sangh does not believe in violence. But we will continue to protest against attacks on our workers in Kerala in a democratic and peaceful manner," RSS national 'Sah Prachar Pramukh' (Joint Chief of Publicity) J Nandakumar had told PTI in Delhi.Vijayan, however, dismissed the threat to his life, saying such calls would not prevent him from travelling around, while Kerala's ruling CPI(M) and Congress sought the arrest of Chandravat for his outrageous comments.Kerala has been witnessing a series of political clashes between the cadres of BJP-RSS and the ruling CPI(M),especially in the northern Kannur district from where Vijayan hails, for a long time. Both parties have blamed each other for the cycle of violence which has claimed several lives on both sides.Reacting to the controversy, actor Arvind Swami tweeted:(With agency inputs)
Beijing: The border dispute between China and India can be resolved if New Delhi accepts Beijing's claim over strategically vital Tawang region in Arunachal Pradesh, China's former top diplomat has said, but Indian officials dismissed it as neither practical nor possible.
Dai Bingguo, who served as the China's boundary negotiator with India from 2003 to 2013, told Chinese media, "If the Indian side takes care of China's concerns in the eastern sector of their border, the Chinese side will respond accordingly and address India's concerns elsewhere."
Elaborating China's stand, Dai who conducted border talks with five Indian Special Representatives starting with Brajesh Mishra in 2003 said, "The disputed territory in the eastern sector of the China-India boundary, including Tawang, is inalienable from China's Tibet in terms of cultural background and administrative jurisdiction."
He said that colonial British government which drew the "McMahon Line" accepted Beijing's claim on Tawang.
China has rejected "McMahon Line" in India's case but accepted it in settling the boundary dispute with Myanmar.
"Even British colonialists who drew the illegal McMahon Line respected China s jurisdiction over Tawang and admitted that Tawang was part of China's Tibet," Dai told the China-India Dialogue magazine.
Dai was China's top diplomat and held the post of State Councillor in the previous Hu Jintao administration.
His interview was published by the magazine in its January edition ahead of India-China Strategic Dialogue held here last month co-chaired by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar.
Dai, regarded as a wily negotiator, did not specify where China is willing to make a concession along the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control (LAC).
He also did not specify this in the book he wrote in Chinese language on the border talks.
Indian officials, however, said Dai's proposal is neither practical nor possible for India to accept considering that Tawang is an integral part of Arunachal Pradesh and has sent representatives to Parliament in every election since 1950.
In his interview, Dai said essential nature of the China-India boundary question is the "need to correct wrongs" made by colonialists and to restore fairness and justice.
"For historical reasons, India now controls the majority of the disputed territory. The boundary question was not created by China or India, so we shouldn't be inheriting it and letting the ghosts of colonialism continue to haunt our bilateral relations," he said.
Though published afresh in Chinese media, Beijing has been making such a demand for the concession for long.
Former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon who was India's Special Representative for border talks and held several rounds of talks with Dai until the present NSA Ajit Doval took over in 2014, has mentioned the issue in his recently released book "Choices: Inside the Making of India s Foreign Policy".
While China demanded concessions in the Western sector before the 1962 war, it changed the line to East after the 1980s.
"Chinese officials began saying in the 1980s that Beijing would compromise only if India made major adjustments first, adding that once India indicated concessions in the East, China would indicate concessions in the West," Menon wrote in the book.
"In 1985, China specified that the concession it was seeking in the East was Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, something that any government of India would find difficult to accept, as this was settled area that had sent representatives to every Indian Parliament since 1950," he wrote.
"The Indian Supreme Court also held in the Berubari case in 1956 that the government could not cede sovereign territory to another government without a constitutional amendment, though it could make adjustments and rectifications in the boundaries of India," Menon wrote in the book, highlighting India's problem in accepting China's demand.
Apparently, China's stand on the border settlement was different earlier lacking consistency.
Menon wrote that former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai during his visit to India in 1960 "suggested that China might recognise the McMahon line boundary in the East in return to India accepting China s claim in the West" to provide strategic depth for China along the Aksai Chin road between Xinjiang and Tibet, which is now China National Highway 219.
Menon said India for the first time had Chinese troops at the border only after the People's Liberation of Army (PLA) took control of Tibet.
After the occupation of Aksai Chin area in the 1962 war, China's stand reported to have changed.
While China says the border dispute covers Arunachal Pradesh which it claims as Southern Tibet, India asserts that the dispute covered Aksai Chin area.
Brussels: A controversial European Union military headquarters to coordinate the bloc's overseas security operations will open in the coming months, EU diplomatic sources said on Friday.
Brexit and doubts about US President Donald Trump's commitment to European security have given fresh impetus to EU ambitions to step up military cooperation, with France and Germany taking the lead.
"This is a big leap forward. It is supposed to start working initially in March and fully in June," one of the sources said.
EU foreign and defence ministers meeting Monday in Brussels will approve what is known as a Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC) unit, the sources said.
It will oversee the European Union's "non-executive" operations -- those that do not use force -- such as civil-military training missions in Mali, the Central African Republic and Somalia.
The EU also runs Operation Sophia in the central Mediterranean, which can use force to stop migrant smugglers, and Atalanta, part of international anti-piracy forces off the Horn of Africa.
These "executive" operations have their own command centres which will remain separate.
The diplomatic sources said the MPCC would show the EU was prepared to do more to contribute to international security but also stressed its limited role, at least for now.
"So, no smoking guns, just training. For us it is important to bring together civil and military capabilities," the source said.
European Commission head Jean-Claude Juncker called for a common EU defence HQ in September after the Brexit vote, resurrecting an idea that had circulated in the EU for years.
But some EU nations such as Britain and the former communist states in eastern Europe, are reluctant to do anything that might undercut NATO's collective defence role, believing the US-led alliance is still the only real option in face of a more assertive Russia.
The MPCC, based in Brussels, will have a small staff and be headed by a "director" not a commander, to avoid overt military connotations, another EU source said.
"We are not looking at an enormous new building for the new structure... this is not about executive missions," the source said.
"The general intention is to explore ways of how to use our capabilities more effectively," the source added.
Washington: US Attorney General Jeff Sessions withdrew on Thursday from any probe into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election after it emerged he had contacts with Russian officials while involved with President Donald Trump's campaign.
But Sessions, a long-time US senator before becoming the country's top law enforcement official, said he did nothing wrong by not disclosing during Senate testimony that he had met last year with Russia's ambassador. He said the meetings were in his capacity as senator, not as a campaign aide.
"I have recused myself in the matters that deal with the Trump campaign," Sessions told reporters at a hastily arranged news conference, after several fellow Republicans in Congress had called for the move.
But his announcement did nothing to quell Democratic concerns, with House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi repeating a call for him to resign and saying "his narrow recusal and sorry attempt to explain away his perjury" were totally inadequate.
Sessions said he had been weighing recusal - ruling himself out from any role in the investigations - even before the latest twist of the controversy over ties between Trump associates and Russia that has dogged the early days of his presidency.
The move means Sessions, a powerful member of Trump's inner circle, will not be briefed on details of any probe. Should the Federal Bureau of Investigation decide to move forward with charges, Sessions would not be in a position to weigh in on whether the Department of Justice should take the case.
The controversy comes as Trump and Republicans who control Congress are trying to move past early administration missteps and focus on issues important to them, including immigration, tax cuts and repealing the Obamacare healthcare law.
US intelligence agencies concluded last year that Russia hacked and leaked Democratic emails during the election campaign as part of an effort to tilt the vote in Trump's favour. The Kremlin has denied the allegations.
Trump fired national security adviser Michael Flynn last month after revelations that Flynn had discussed US sanctions on Russia with Russian Ambassador Sergei Kislyak before Trump took office and that Flynn had misled Vice President Mike Pence about the conversations.
'HONEST AND CORRECT'
During his Senate confirmation hearing in January, Sessions responded to a question from Democratic Senator Al Franken that he did not "have communications with the Russians" during the presidential campaign.
But on Wednesday night, the Washington Post revealed that Sessions, who was a senior campaign aide of Trump's, received Kislyak in his Senate office in September.
The other encounter was in July at a Heritage Foundation event that was attended by about 50 ambassadors, during the Republican National Convention, the Post said.
Sessions said he was "honest and correct" in his answer to Franken, drawing a distinction between his role as a senator and his role as a campaign aide.
"I never had meetings with Russian operatives or Russian intermediaries about the Trump campaign," Sessions said, but added that he felt that he should not be involved in investigating a campaign in which he had a role.
At least two other officials in Trump's campaign said they also spoke with the Russian ambassador at a conference on the sidelines of the July convention last July, USA Today reported on Thursday.
While there is nothing legally wrong with such meetings, the reported contacts raise questions about the White House's repeated statements that it knew of no further contacts with Russian officials beyond those by Flynn.
'ALICE IN WONDERLAND'
Before the news conference, Trump stood by his attorney general, saying he had "total" confidence in Sessions. Asked whether Sessions should step aside from the investigations, Trump told reporters, "I don't think so."
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, who earlier said it would be like "Alice in Wonderland" if the administration were to approve Sessions' investigating himself, said he should have recused himself the moment he was sworn in rather than waiting until he was caught misleading Congress.
Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee asked the FBI to launch a criminal investigation into Sessions' statements to Congress about his communication with Russian officials.
Schumer and Dianne Feinstein, the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, called for the appointment of a special prosecutor.
Sessions is one of many "subjects" of a wide-ranging government investigation of any contacts between the Trump's campaign and associates and Russia, two U.S. officials familiar with the investigation said.
The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Sessions was not now a "target" of the probe by the FBI, the Treasury Department, the CIA and the National Security Agency.
The investigation, one of the officials said, has a number of subjects because of the numerous contacts between associates of Trump, including Flynn, and the Russian Embassy in Washington as well as Russian and some Ukrainian businessmen and companies.
Trump has accused officials in former Democratic President Barack Obama's administration of trying to discredit him with questions about Russia contacts. The White House dismissed the revelation of the Sessions meetings as a partisan attack, saying his contacts with the ambassador had been as a member of the Armed Services Committee.
Gala Renay Myers Elliott, 60, of Lynchburg, Virginia, died Wednesday, March 1, 2017, at home surrounded by her loved ones. She was the loving wife of John Wesley Elliott Sr. for 42 years. Born in Pembrook, Virginia, on September 6, 1956, she was the daughter of the late Bobby M. Myers Sr. and Dolly Falls Myers. She is survived by her son, John (PeeWee) Elliott Jr. of Lynchburg; and her daughter, Kaitlin Elliott of the residence; two sisters, Paulette Chapman of Rustburg and Judy Hudson (George) of Lynchburg; three brothers, Brian Myers (Regina), Jeff Myers (Lisa) and Bobby Myers Jr. (Wanda) all of Lynchburg; and a sister-in-law, Audrey Myers of Lynchburg; as well as numerous niecesand nephews that she loved like her own children. Renay also leaves behind a special dedicated friend, Luanne Mayhugh of Appomattox, Va. Renay was preceded in death by her brother, William (Billy) Myers and her brother-in-law, Jimmy Chapman. Renay was a former employee of Waytech Electronics for twenty-three years. She was employed for the last ten years by Campbell County School Transportation Department until she was forced to retire in January 2017. The family would like to especially thank her sister, Pauletteand best friend, Luanne for their dedicationand loving care they provided during Renay's illness. The family requests any memorial contributions to be made to the American Cancer Society, 2840 Electric Road, Roanoke, Va. 24018. The family will receive friends at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg on Friday, March 3, 2017, from 7 until 8 p.m. A celebration of Renay's life will be held immediately following in the chapel of Tharp Funeral Home with Pastor John Signs Jr. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family. To send condolences please visit tharpfuneralhome.com.
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A lawyer who has worked on behalf of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman is trying a novel legal tactic: calling on President Trump to deport the Mexican drug lord back home from his jail cell in the US. The AP reports that lawyer Jose Luis Gonzalez Meza held up a banner outside the Mexican Attorney General's Office in Mexico City on Wednesday that read: "Mr. Trump, Deport the illegal and criminal Chapo Guzman." Trump has pledged to deport migrants who have committed illegal acts.
Gonzalez Meza said Mexican prosecutors violated due process when they extradited Guzman in January. "That means he is in the United States illegally," the lawyer said. "We are going to ask he be returned, because he is illegal and criminal!" Guzman faces US drug trafficking, money laundering, and other charges. He has pleaded not guilty. (Read more Joaquin Guzman stories.)
A Chicago woman was convicted Thursday of torturing her granddaughter to death, with the 8-year-old's diary serving as key evidence of the toll the horrific abuse was taking on her, the Chicago Sun-Times reports. Gizzell Ford started the diary in third grade, according to People. In pink marker and a neat hand, she wrote about clothes, friends, and teachers. The Chicago Tribune reports she liked dressing up for school and diagramming sentences. I am going to be a beautiful smart and good young lady, Gizzell wrote. But by the summer, the neat handwriting was gone. "If I be good...I wont have to do punishments, she wrote. Her last entry on the day before she died in July 2013: "I hate this life."
Gizzell was abused by her 55-year-old grandmother, Helen Ford, at the instruction of her bedridden father. She was forced to squat or stand in place for hours on end, tied to a bed for days, and kept from eating or drinking. When she tried to sneak a drink from the toilet in the maggot-infested apartment, she was punished. Prosecutors say she was used as a "punching bag." Gizzell reportedly tried to kill herself days before her death. A police officer broke down in tears in court describing the worst abuse she'd seen in 30 years. And the judge says Gizzell died a "slow, painful, agonizing death." Prosecutors say Helen Ford, found guilty of murder, never showed remorse. Gizzell's father, Andre Ford, died of a heart attack in 2014 while awaiting trial. (Read more child abuse stories.)
America's Dad wants to make sure America's Fourth Estate doesn't run out of steam. Members of the White House press corps arrived in the press area break room Thursday morning to find a brand new espresso machine courtesy of Tom Hanks, the Hill reports. The actor left behind a note reading, Keep up the good fight for Truth, Justice, and the American Way. Especially for the Truth Part. According to Variety, this has actually become a bit of a tradition for Hanks, starting when he was at the White House for a film shoot during the Bush administration. He saw the press corps getting their coffee from a vending machine and bought them their own coffee machine. He later replaced it during the Obama administration when he noticed it was getting a bit rundown while at the White House for a screening of The Pacific. (Read more Tom Hanks stories.)
Wildlife officials say they have evidence of a rare jaguar sighting in the United States, giving conservationists hope that the endangered cat is re-establishing itself here, the AP reports. The US Fish and Wildlife Service released a photo Thursday from a trail camera that was taken in November and recently retrieved. It shows the spotted cat wandering through the Dos Cabezas Mountains in Arizona about 60 miles north of the US-Mexico border. Fish and Wildlife spokesman Jeff Humphrey says it's the farthest north of the border that a jaguar has been seen in decades. "The significance is that we're getting a clearer understanding of where jaguars occur in the borderline area," Humphrey said. It's been decades since a jaguar was spotted in that mountain range, he noted.
Arizona, New Mexico, and other parts of the southwestern US were home to jaguars before habitat loss and predator control programs aimed at protecting livestock eliminated them over the last 150 years. Conservationists think the latest sighting is evidence that the jaguar is returning to the US after decades away. The first jaguar to be recently seen, dubbed by wildlife conservations as "El Jefe"Spanish for "the boss"popped up in the Whetstone Mountains in southeastern Arizona in 2011 when he was about 3 years old. He was seen again in the Santa Rita Mountains south of Tucson around September 2015. A trail camera photo taken on Dec. 1 in a mountain range near Fort Huachuca, the Army installation about 75 miles southeast of Tucson, captured a second jaguar that was seen on camera again in January. Around seven jaguars have been documented in southern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico since 1996. (Read more jaguar stories.)
Arkansas hasn't executed anyone in 11 yearsbut between April 17 and April 27, eight men will be put to death, an "unprecedented" move in the US, according to a group that monitors executions in the country. Nine inmates had asked the US Supreme Court to review the state court ruling over Arkansas' lethal injection law, and Gov. Asa Hutchinson scheduled the executions soon after the high court said it would not do so, the AP reports. Hutchinson released a statement saying the law requires him to set the execution dates, KATV reports, but CNN notes that activists are criticizing the decision. "This planned mass execution is grotesque and unprecedented," says the Arkansas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty. Prior to this, there have only been two times a state has executed that many people in one month.
Lawyers for the men are trying to block the executions, and some had argued a stay of execution was still in place for the inmates. On Thursday the Arkansas Supreme Court said there's no stay in place. The AP notes the execution dates appear to have been set so close together, with the inmates being executed in pairs, in an attempt to finish them before Arkansas' supply of one of the execution drugs, midazolam, expires at the end of April. Attorneys for some of the men argue that midazolam, which knocks the inmates out before other drugs kill them, doesn't keep them from experiencing pain and thus the state's lethal injection protocol constitutes cruel and unusual punishment. Arkansas must also obtain a new supply of another execution drug, potassium chloride, because its supply expired last month. (Read more Arkansas stories.)
The family of a slain nurse in Nashville is asking the public for help finding her killer. Tiffany Ferguson, 23, was fatally stabbed in her apartment early Tuesday during a robbery, police say. Her roommate heard her screams about 5:40am and found her injured in bed, the Tennessean reports. Police are searching for a man spotted on surveillance video walking outside the apartment prior to the assault. Wearing a hoodie and ripped jeans, the man can be seen pulling on door handles of cars shortly before Ferguson was attacked, police say. The young nurse had been out with friends earlier in the evening, and a police spokesman tells ABC News the crime is believed to be "a very rare, random act of violence."
Cops think the suspect entered the building looking for unlocked apartment doors, was able to access Ferguson's apartment, took some valuables and put them outside, and then returned to the apartment. "The attack on Ferguson is believed to have come during his reentry," police say. Police recovered a "very sharp object," and are awaiting autopsy results. Molly Cox tells ABC that her sister was having trouble with the lock, which is likely why her door was unlocked. Ferguson got a job as an intensive-care nurse at a Nashville hospital after attending college in Alabama. "She just had so many dreams," says her sister. "She deserved better than what she got." (Read more crime stories.)
A UK woman was almost in sight of her front door in east London when Derry McCann pulled her into bushes at Victoria Park, raped her for two hoursand then left to go get married later that day. McCann, 28, acknowledged what prosecutors called a "sustained and systematic" attack in the wee hours of Jan. 13 in a guilty plea Thursday. Police suspect he initially stalked another woman but lost sight of her and homed in on another target, per the BBC. A prosecutor described how he played "mind games" with his 24-year-old victim, asking her what she thought he would do next, as he beat and raped her. He then snapped photos of her, told her she was lucky he didn't record the rape, stole her phone, and took off, prosecutors said. Hours later he married his pregnant partner.
"This was a terrifying, violent, and prolonged attack ... committed by a man intent on inflicting fear and psychological suffering," a prosecutor said. Yet a judge had predicted it. In 2006, McCann was sentenced to life (with a recommended minimum of 9 years) for the rape of another woman in a park. The judge described the attack as a "clinical enactment of a catalogue of sexual desires" that amounted to "torture" and said there was a "very substantial risk" McCann would re-offend, report the Sun and Telegraph. McCann was eventually released from prison in 2015 and some are now calling for a public inquiry into his case. He is due to be sentenced in the latest case on April 28. He again faces life for three counts of rape, one count of assault, and one count of robbery. (Canada just released a rapist with up to 1,000 victims.)
Comments related to the photo of Kellyanne Conway kneeling on a sofa in the Oval Office drew a few laughs at the Washington Press Club Foundation's annual awards dinner Wednesday, particularly when Republican Sen. Tim Scott joked that "a whole lot worse" happened on that couch in the 1990s. (Burn, Bill.) But thenaccording to Conwaythe joking went a bit too far. In what the Washington Post calls "an apparently off-script joke," Rep. Cedric Richmond, a Democrat from Louisiana, had this to say:
"Tim, you kind of opened the door. I really just want to know what was going on there, because, you know, I won't tell anybody. And you can just explain to me that circumstancebecause she really looked kind of familiar in that position there. Don't answerand I don't want you to refer back to the 1990s."
While some believed Richmond was referring to a sex act with the "familiar" line, he says he meant nothing sexual by it. "Where I grew up, saying that someone is looking or acting 'familiar' simply means that they are behaving too comfortably," Richmond said Thursday. Conwaywho has vigorously defended the photoisn't buying that explanation. "I notice he did not apologize, he tried to clarify," she tells the Daily Caller, adding the comment was "sexist" and the media would be expressing outrage if she were "a liberal woman" and "a pro-abortion one." GOP Chairwoman Ronna Romney McDaniel isn't pleased, either, calling the remark "disgusting and offensive" and "a reminder of the demeaning comments women hear every single day." Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat, has called for Richmond to apologize, reports the Advocate. (Read more Kellyanne Conway stories.)
The Wall Street Journal has just complicated Jeff Sessions' explanation about his conversations with the Russian ambassador. The attorney general has acknowledged that he met at least twice with Sergei Kislyak during the campaign, but he says he did so in his capacity as a senator rather than as a surrogate of the Trump camp. One of those conversations occurred at an event during the Republican National Convention, and the Journal reports that Sessions paid for his travel expenses to Cleveland with money from his own re-election campaign fundnot from official legislative funds that would typically cover his trips as a member of the Senate Armed Services panel. A spokesoman for Sessions offered no comment on the convention expenses, but a general counsel at the nonpartisan Campaign Legal Center spells out the inconsistency.
If he was truly there solely as a member of the Armed Services Committee, then he could've used his legislative account, says Larry Noble. At the time of the convention, Sessions had been chairman of Trumps National Security Advisory Committee for about four months. Sessions, meanwhile, appeared on Fox News Thursday night and told Tucker Carlson that the controversy over his meetings with Kislyak has been "hyped beyond reason." At the convention, for example, he said he spoke with about 50 ambassadors and characterized them as informal chats. Aides say they don't recall Sessions talking about the campaign with Kislyak at the event, but they also say the room was so loud they can't be positive, per the Journal. Sessions said Thursday he would recuse himself from any related investigation. (Read more Jeff Sessions stories.)
A member of the European Parliament is facing possible punishment after stating that women "must earn less than men because they are weaker, smaller, and less intelligent," the BBC reports. According to the Huffington Post, the statement was made by 74-year-old Janusz Korwin-Mikke while the parliament was discussing the gender pay gap. Korwin-Mikke is an independent member of parliament who founded his own right-wing political party, Poland's Renewal of the RepublicFreedom and Hope, CNN reports. His statement may have broken the European Parliament's rules against racist, xenophobic, or defamatory conduct, for which Korwin-Mikke could be fined or suspended.
Other parliamentary members quickly spoke out against Korwin-Mikke's statement. One member from the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party said she would defend European women against men like Korwin-Mikke. And London Labour parliamentary member Seb Dance tells the Independent that Korwin-Mikke, who he calls a nationalist and extremist, "crossed a line and must lose the right to be taken seriously on anything." Korwin-Mikke has been punished by the European Parliament in the past for likening migrants arriving in Europe to "excrement" and giving a Nazi salute in front of the parliament. He's previously said women shouldn't have the right to vote and was investigated for incitement to rape. (Read more sexism stories.)
After praising Canada's immigration system during his address to Congress on Tuesday, President Trump was back at it again on Friday, USA Today reports. "The merit-based system is the way to go," Trump tweeted after watching a story about immigration on Fox & Friends. It's unclear exactly to what extent Trump wants the US to adopt the Canadian model, and the White House declined to clarify his comments on the matter, according to CNN. "He's very clearly saying we should stop importing poverty," says the president of a group that supports limiting immigration. But immigration advocates say that while "merit-based" immigration sounds good, it can be used as a tool to drastically reduce all legal immigration, especially the low-skilled workers necessary for farming and more.
Canada adopted an immigration system in the 1960s that awards prospective immigrants points for education, language skills, work experience, and more. The result is that most of Canada's immigrants are there for economic reasons. Meanwhile, most legal immigrants in the US are here because of family connections. Also unlike in the US, immigration is widely popular with Canadians, the New York Times reports. And Canada plans to take in far more immigrants, proportionally speaking, than the US in the coming year. A version of Canada's system has already been adopted by Japan, Denmark, Australia, and the UK. (Read more immigration stories.)
U2 is being sued for plagiarism. British musician Paul Rose filed a $5 million suit against U2. Rose accused the band of copying signature elements from his work.
According to a report, Rose sued U2 for copying his song for the band's 1991 album "Achtung Baby." It is indicated that the song from U2 titled "The Fly" contained elements from Rose's "Nae Slappin." The court documents stated that Rose provided U2 a demo copy of his songs. This was the time that the Dublin band was trying to find new ways on enhancing their style of music.
The report also indicated that an average listener can actually hear the similarities between the songs of U2 and Rose. Rose's attorney already informed the court that the reason for rose to file the case 26 years after the album was released is because he feared that it would ruin his career then.
A report indicated that Rose is seeking a copyright credit of $5 million for the song that has been copied. However, he needs to prove if U2 actually copied the song before they released "Achtung Baby." This has not been the first time that a famous band has been sued for plagiarism. In fact, Led Zeppelin was sued for their song "Stairway to Heaven."
They were allegedly sued for copying the song from 1968 Taurus song from a band Spirit. Led Zeppelin though had the court in their favor when the decision was released in 2016. The bands that are mostly sued for copyright infringement rarely reach trial.
Meanwhile, Rose shared that in 1989; he submitted a demo tape for his song to Island Records. This was the year that U2 also signed up for the label. He noted that even if the band was popular at that time, they needed some changes with their songs. There has been no comment yet from the representatives of U2.
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New Delhi:
Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu on Monday flagged off the first AntyodayaExpress and the fourth Humsafar Express through video conferencing from New Delhi.
The Ernakulam-Howrah Antyodaya weekly express will travel through Salem, Katpadi and Vishakhapatnam while Sri Ganganagar-Tiruchirappalli Humsafar weekly express will travel through Krishnarajapuram, Pune and Ahmedabad.
Speaking on the occasion, Prabhu said, This is the fourth Humsafar Express to be launched and it will cross the entire country from the north to the south.
He said the train is a fully air conditioned 3-AC service with facilities like GPS-based passenger information system, passenger announcement system, fire and smoke detection and suppression system, CCTVs, comfortable seats, mobile and laptop charging points, integrated Braille display, LCD display above compartment doors in the aisle, fire retardant curtains.
Today we are launching the countrys first Antodaya Express. Tejas and UDAY Express will be launched soon. Antodaya Express is a long-distance, fully unreserved, superfast train service for the common man, to be operated on dense routes, he added.
The base fare of Antodaya Express will be 15 per cent higher than the existing Mail/Express fare.
Antodaya service has facilities like cushioned luggage racks which can serve as seats, LED lights, modular toilets, pleasing interior colour scheme, toilet occupation indication display board and anti-graffiti coating for exterior painting.
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New Delhi:
Banking operations were hit on Tuesday by the day-long, nation-wide strike called by employees of public sector banks, with ATMs running dry at various places across the country.
The All India Bank Employees' Association (AIBEA) claimed success, saying all the branches kept their shutters down.
"People could not go to banks to transact anything, deposit money, withdraw money or do any other transaction.
Government treasury transactions could not be done, import and export transactions were hit, money market operations were not possible," AIBEA General Secretary CH Venkatachalam told PTI.
Money transfer and cash remittances were also hit.
Venkatachalam said clearing operations have been paralysed in a big way despite the Reserve Bank keeping its operations open because employees were not available.
Some private sector banks are also part of the strike called under the aegis of the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) to press their demands including fixing accountability of top officers over increasing bad loans, opposing labour reforms as well as outsourcing of permanent jobs.
Karur Vysya Bank and Federal Bank said Staff Union and Officers Association of the Bank under the banner of UFBU are participating in the strike.
"Regular functioning of the branches of the Bank might be affected on that day. However the Bank's ATMs and digital channels will function to meet customer needs," Federal Bank said.
Private sector banks including ICICI, HDFC, Axis were not part of the strike.
ATMs have gone dry in various places, Venkatachalam said, adding that some banks had limited cash to keep the machines going.
UFBU is an umbrella body of 9 unions. However two of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh affiliates -- the National Organisation of Bank Workers and the National Organisation of Bank Officers -- are not part of the strike.
The demands include compensation to employees and officers for extra hours they have put in following demonetisation in November and early initiation of next wage revision.
They have also demanded adequate recruitment in all cadres, stringent measures to recover bad loans and accountability of top executives. Besides, they have pitched for criminal action against wilful defaulters.
The UFBU, which claims membership of nearly 10 lakh across banks, also requested the government for cost reimbursement of demonetisation to banks.
As many as 27 public sector banks control 75 per cent of the total business.
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Kathmandu:
China has asked Nepal on Wednesday asked to join its ambitious Silk Road initiative, which, it claims, is aimed at regional connectivity.
China made the request during the 14th annual general meeting of Nepal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industries in Kathmandu.
More than 100 countries have shown interest in the Silk Road initiative and signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with 40 countries, Chinese officials said.
Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Yu Wong, asked Nepal to assist in forwarding the Silk Road initiative. He said, it will help in regional prosperity and connectivity.
Nepals Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Krishna Bahadur Mahara said his country would expand trade ties with China keeping the geopolitical sensitivity in view.
I assure you that Nepal will make further decision to augment trade relations with China, he said, but added that exports must be increased to reduce trade losses.
He also thanked China for its assistance to Nepals infrastructure development.
China has assisted Nepal in the areas of Hydropower, Aviation, Construction and Transmission line, Yu said, assuring that such assistance will continue in future.
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Chandigarh:
Delhi University student Gurmehar Kaur, in the centre of a countrywide debate on free speech post her campaign against ABVP, was provided security by Punjab Police on Wednesday at her native place in Jalandhar.
Jalandhar commissioner of police (CP) Arpit Shukla said, "I have put up two lady constables at her residence." The security has been provided in the wake of "some threats" she had received earlier, he added.
A case of sexual harassment and criminal intimidation was registered by Delhi Police against unknown persons in connection with the alleged rape threats to Kaur after violent clashes at DU's Ramjas College between ABVP and AISA members.
She had started the campaign "I am not afraid of ABVP" following violence at Ramjas college.
The campaign went viral and received massive support from students and teachers across universities.
A case with her complaint to Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) was also registered on Tuesday, even as she pulled out of a protest march against ABVP, requesting to be "left alone", and came to Jalandhar to be with her family.
Senior officers had earlier said Gurmehar had submitted a screenshot of the message she received on Facebook from a man who allegedly threatened her with "gangrape" and "making porn videos of her".
Kaur, a student of Lady Shri Ram College, affiliated to DU, is the daughter of Captain Mandeep Singh who was killed in a militant attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district on August 6, 1999, four days after Pakistani troops withdrew from Kargil.
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Lucknow:
The political frenzy has reached its peak in the holy city of Varanasi, the Lok Sabha constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as the battle of ballots for the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, enters the last phase.
The saffron party which has a lot at stake in the last two phases of polling scheduled for March 4 and 8 has moved its war room to Varanasi, entrusting Union ministers and senior leaders with the task of strengthening the campaign with the Prime Minister in the vanguard.
The BJP is also faced with the target of quelling resentment in certain quarters over senior leaders being denied party ticket in these elections.
The importance of the area comprising 89 constituencies, which go to polls in 14 districts of on March 4 and 8, is strengthened by the fact that the prime minister is scheduled to address public meetings in Jaunpur, Mirzapur and Varanasi on March 3, 4 and 5, respectively.
Read | BJP sends in star-power for final push to campaign in PM Modis Varanasi
Following in the footsteps of the BJP is the SP-Congress combine which has also shifted its focus to Varanasi and its campaign strategist Prashant Kishor and his team members are busy crafting Varanasi area-specific strategy.
Taking the BJP and PM head on, the SP-Congress has launched a Dard-e-Banaras campaign highlighting the disillusionment among the electorate over Modis false promises and no delivery.
Team PK has launched three videos of less than two-minute each which are played from the campaign raths or video vans around Varanasi.
Kishor claims that till date they have reached about 2,00,000 Facebook and Whatsapp users around Varanasi within a span of just a couple of days.
Read | PM Modi surprises everyone by bringing his own lunch at Varanasi rally, BJP boasts of equality
The volunteers of the team are also holding door-to-door campaign armed with publicity materials and personal letters from Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav and street plays.
Central leaders are holding press conferences to keep the pot boiling till the D-day.
The team of Akhilesh and Rahul are also likely to hold a road show in Varanasi on March 4 and senior leaders of both the parties are camping there to oversee their strategy in the face of the moves by the saffron party.
BJP president Amit Shah has been in constant touch with partymen, making frequent trips and over the past week, he stayed back in Varanasi for five nights meeting finetuning the strategy with Union ministers and party leaders.
According to BJP, this is the first time that the party has set up a new media centre near Chawka Ghat in Varanasi, where at least one Union minister addressed mediapersons every day to highlight achievements of the Modi government, the partys manifesto.
The minister also targets the Akhilesh government, its alliance with Congress, and the BSP.
Moreover, the party has set up a war room at its headquarters in Kashi region in Gulab Bagh area, where party workers have been assigned the task of publicising BJP programmes through social media.
A protocol cell has been set up to look after arrangements for Union ministers visiting Varanasi, while a separate Awas Vibhag (housing cell) has been formed to manage accommodation for visiting BJP leaders.
Over the past week, Union ministers who have visited Varanasi include Rajnath Singh, J P Nadda, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Kalraj Mishra, Uma Bharti, Ananth Kumar, Smriti Irani, Narendra Singh Tomar, Piyush Goyal, Mahendra Nath Pandey, Santosh Gangwar, Krishna Raj and Anupriya Patel.
BSP chief Mayawati is also touring these constituencies addressing three to four election rallies a day while leaders of her party have been assigned the task of staying in contact with the electorate at the grassroots level.
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Lucknow:
Police on Thursday initiated steps to withdraw Y category security to Gayatri Prasad Prajpati as the rape accused Uttar Pradesh minister remains elusive.
We have initiated the process to withdraw his Y category security, a senior Lucknow Police official said.
A person enjoying Y category has a security cover of 11 personnel, including one or two commandos.
Police teams are on the job and we will arrest him soon, he said even as special police teams returned empty-handed from Amethi, the ministers assembly constituency, and Delhi where he was said to be hiding.
A UP police team went to Delhi to record the statement of the 16-year-old victim who is in a state of severe trauma and is housed in a restricted ward at the AIIMS.
ALSO READ | I want to see Gayatri Prajapati behind bars, says minor victim
A DSP-rank officer, investigating the matter, recorded the victims statement after seeking permission from AIIMS Medical Superintendent.
The statement was videographed as per the rules under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
Police teams were dispatched out of the state capital when Prajpati could not be located in his official residence in posh Gautampalli area here.
ALSO READ | Video: Police raid UP minister Gayatri Prajapatis official residence
Acting on Supreme Court orders, police made frantic efforts to nab him and after having failed to do so they might even apply for cancellation of his passport so that the minister cannot escape from the country.
Interestingly, the minister was earlier seen moving freely from one place to other in his constituency seeking votes.
The last time Prajapati was seen in public was on February 27 when he spoke to the media saying he will win with a huge margin and will work under Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav once again.
ALSO READ | Rape case: FIR filed against UP minister Gayatri Prajapati after SC order
49-year-old Prajpati is facing imminent arrest following an FIR lodged against him and six of his accomplices on the apex court order at Gautampalli police station here on February 18 under various sections of the IPC and POCSO Act.
The Uttar Pradesh police had lodged an FIR against Prajapati on the apex courts order for his alleged roles in separate cases of gangrape and an attempt to rape another woman and her minor daughter.
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Kozhikode:
Hours after a bomb was hurled at RSS office in near Nadapuram in the Kozhikode on Thursday night, CPI(M) office was reportedly set on fire. However, there were no reports of casualties in later incidents, while at least four people were injured in bomb blast.
Four RSS workers were injured after some unknown persons hurled a crude bomb at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh office near Nadapuram in the district on Thursday night, police said.
The incident occurred at Kallachi around 8.30 PM. The injured have been identified as Babu, Vineesh, Sudhir and Sunil, they said.
While Babu and Vineesh, who suffered severe injuries in the abdomen and legs, have been admitted to the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (KMCH), the other two have been taken to a private hospital here, a senior police official said.
The investigation is underway to ascertain the motive behind the attack, he said.
The attack took place hours after an RSS functionary in Madhya Pradesh announced a Rs one crore bounty for beheading Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Kundan Chandrawat, Sah Prachar Pramukh of RSS in Madhya Pradeshs Ujjain, announced the reward to avenge the killing of its workers in Kerala, allegedly by CPI-M workers.
The Kerala Chief Minister is killing our RSS workers who want to take this country forward. I will pay Rs one crore to anyone who beheads him even if I have to sell my house, Chandravat was seen saying in a video, which has gone viral.
The RSS, however, distanced itself from Chandravats remarks.
Updates:
Hyderabad: RSS activists protest against attack on their office in Kerala pic.twitter.com/D8udYYheH7 ANI (@ANI_news) March 3, 2017
10:50AM
#Kerala: 2 DYFI activists hacked at Elappulli in Palakkad district last night. Police complaint names 3 BJP workers
8:40AM
#CPM office in Kozhikode's Vishnumangalam area set on fire last night, no casualties reported.
8:00AM
#Since last 8 months when Communist Govt came to power in Kerala, there have been continuous attacks on RSS ppl: RSS supporter Virag Pachpor
#Centre Govt needs to intervene in this state matter and restore normalcy: RSS supporter Virag Pachpor on bomb hurled at RSS office in Kerala
Thursday
#Violent activities of CPM are being patronised & promoted by Kerala CM: RSS ideologue Rakesh Sinha on RSS office attack in Kerala
#It's time for Home Ministry to issue advisory to Kerala Govt. HM should visit Kerala as it's a question of unsettling civil society: R Sinha
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Rameswaram:
Some unidentified persons coming in a country boat hurled country bombs at two fishermen who were fishing in a mechanized boat, near Appa Thivu in the Gulf of Mannar region on Friday morning, police told.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the fishermen in the mechanised boat used banned fishing nets which was opposed by those in the country boat.
The mechanised boat was damaged in the incident, police said.
The injured Mohammed Ibrahim and Nishar Khan were admitted to government hospital in Rameswaram.
New Delhi:
Kareena Kapoor has shunned away the reports of changing her son Taimur's name and stated that the little prince has the most beautiful name.
Apparently, there have been reports that the diva has got a new name for the Pataudi prince and prefers calling her son as Little John.
However, Bebo has cleared the air and stated, "I want to clarify that. How can anyone think that? Why would I call my son Little John? My sons name is Taimur. It is the most beautiful name, and he is the most beautiful and gorgeous man (smiles). And, no, I dont call him Little John. Please address him as Taimur Ali Khan."
Also Read: Motherhood will not slow her career down, says Kareena
Interestingly, this is not the first time that Taimur's name has been making to the headlines.
In fact, his name has been raking up a controversy since the beginning leaving Kareena and Saif Ali Khan trolled for naming their son on a barbaric Mongolian ruler.
However, Saifeena has remained unfazed by all the criticism and stood by their decision of naming their first child as Taimur Alia Khan Pataudi.
Notably, Taimur happens to be the couple's first child and the new parents are thoroughly enjoying this new phase of their lives.
Bebo has even admitted that motherhood has changed her life for the better.
Talking about the same, Kareena told a leading daily, "Its an extremely personal journey. Its a relationship that one develops over time, organically. I am still learning the ropes. In fact, Saif says my attention has completely shifted [to Taimur], and keeps complaining about it. I told him maybe [that will be the case] for a while (laughs). Now, I dont like leaving home too much."
On the work front, Kareena Kapoor Khan will be making a comeback with Shashanka Ghosh's upcoming directorial 'Veere Di Wedding'.
Also starring Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar and Shikha Talsania in key roles, the movie is expected to hit the floors in May.
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Democrat Claire McCaskill Caught Lying About Meeting With Russian AmbassadorDemocrats have two major problems; compulsive lying, and they suck at technology. The DNC and Hillary Clinton's campaign having been hacked by 5 to 7 foreign intelligence agencies vs. the RNC and Trump's data security is a great example of the latter - though perhaps the best combination of questionable ethics and technological ineptitude was the episode in which Hillary Clinton's incompetent IT guy crept onto Reddit during the Benghazi investigation to ask how he could strip Hillary's email address from (legally) archived records.The latest example of lying while sucking at technology comes to us from Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO), who tried her best to pile on the Russophobic Jeff Sessions witch hunt by emphatically tweeting about how she's never had a call or meeting with the Russians. Ever. Unfortunately for Claire, she forgot about the two times she not only did that, but tweeted about it!dumbocrats...liebarrelsHow the Corporate Media Continues to Use the Russia Scapegoat as a Distraction from Status Quo FailureCountless observers have noted the obvious fact that the corporate medias all-encompassing obsession with anti-Russia hysteria is partly just a shameless campaign to prevent change within the Democratic Party by blaming its loss on an outside enemy as opposed to the oligarch-coddling, corrupt disaster it nominated. While true, the strategy is far bigger than that. So called Western elites have failed miserably across the globe, and the only way to retain their undeserved positions of power (many should be in jail), is to create and promote a mindless, highly emotional, non-domenstic distraction. Enter Russia.Flashback: Chuck Schumer Meets with Putin in New York CityWheres the outrage?Democrat Senate Minority leader Chuck Schumer continues to push the Russia conspiracy.But it was Schumer who met with Putin in New York City not Trump.The picture above was taken in 2003 as Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, enjoys a Krispy Kreme doughnut and coffee with Senator Charles Schumer from New York as Putin visits the first New York gas station of the Russian company Lukoil.The hysteria over Trump administration officials talking or not talking with Russia needs to end.Its getting in the way of putting America back on track.of course it issoros funded lefties appear to hate the US of A, and want it to failwait till they see what it gets replaced withewe
New Delhi:
Vidyut Jammwal has impressed every one with his nail biting action stunts and good looks. His new movies, Commando 2: The Black Money Trail has hit the theaters on Friday. His fans were eagerly waiting for the movie to see their favourite star indulging in some thrilling action sequences.
Commando 2 which is a remake of 2013 action film Commando: A one man army, is supposed to be highly action packed and before you rush to theaters nearby, we have brought you some quick reviews.
Take a look....
The Times of India: Vidyut Jammwal is a solid action star and his stunts are the only reason you manage to sit through this never-ending tale of 'catch-Vicky Chadda-if-you-can'. The opening scene is spectacular. Sadly, the cat and mouse game between the cops and the criminal is not one bit exciting as the story pretends to be more intelligent than it is. Barring Esha Gupta's ravishing looks and permanent smirk, nothing quite stands out in the film. Even decent action cannot salvage this dreary supposed crime thriller.
Firstpost: It might be natural to assume that the tale of a government-appointed, trigger-happy action junkie on the trail of a murderous, black-money-laundering villain would be a fun ride, especially with His Royal Hotness, His Muscular Majesty Vidyut Jammwal in the driver's seat.
The film's impressive action scenes and pretty hero cannot compensate for its limited substance, which matters particularly because the action is not unrelenting. While Karan is bashing up baddies, it is hard to look away from the screen. When he is not, it becomes easy.
Hindustan Times: Commando 2 heavily relies on Jammwals stunts. Last time, his victory looked applaud-worthy because of a really frightening villain but this time he doesnt have a good match. He has performed his stunts but the intensity is missing. Too many twists hamper the films chances even more. Apart from Jammwal, only Adah Sharma is notice-worthy as a Gucci loving, trigger happy cop from Hyderabad. Commando 2 lacks heart and is all muscles. If may not even quench your thirst for some adrenaline-pumping stunts.
News18: Directed by Deven Bhojani, Commando 2 revolves around the story of a man, skilled in hand-to-hand combat and weaponry, who sets out on a mission to eradicate black money. The film, starring Vidyut Jammwal, Adah Sharma and Esha Gupta in pivotal roles, is a sequel to the 2013 film Commando: A One Man Army. It's about how Vidyut's character Karan hunts down India's most- wanted black money agent Vicky Chadha and brings back all the laundered black money. The running time of action sequences will be the only time you might enjoy. Nothing else really drives it forward.
New Delhi:
Terming the Modi government as the world's "most anti-intellectual" for questioning experts on GDP figures, former Finance Minister P Chidambaram on Friday affirmed that the economy will recover in the next 12-18 months from the "devastating" impact of demonetisation.
"It (the government) even thinks that Amartya Sen, professor at Harvard is undeserving of any respect. It thinks that Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard are all useless," he said.
Speaking at a seminar on "Untold Stories of Demonetisation - Its impact on Indian Economy", organised by AICC, the senior Congress leader was critical of the government's criticism of noted economists like Nobel laureate Amartya Sen for questioning government's growth data post-demonetisation.
"We have the most anti-intellectual government in the world," he said. Citing government data, he said going by the Gross Value Addition (GVA) figures it is clear that the economy has slowed down and the Q4 data of national income will further confirm that the economy has been hit "very very badly" by note ban.
"It is clear from government's GVA data that the economy is in a clear declining trend... It is important that we understand that the devastating effect of demonetisation has interrupted India's economy story. It was an unnecessary interruption. "To recover from this interruption, in my assessment, it will take between 12 and 18 months to recover. So you will see this impact into 2017-18 and may be right up to the end of 2017-18," Chidamabaram said.
He said demonetisation was done not on recommendation of the Reserve Bank of India to the government but on the "diktat" of Government of India to RBI. "Every procedure and every norm was violated in taking this decision and announcing it," he said. He also said that the objectives behind demonetisation like curbing black money, corruption and counterfeit currency, have not been achieved and the move has been a failure.
Also Read: Congress leader Chidambaram lashes out at Jaitley for his remarks amid DU row
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Chennai:
Tamil Nadu chief minister K Palanisamy urged Union HRD minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday to exempt Tamil Nadu from the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
The chief minister "made a request" with Javadekar in this regard during a meeting in Chennai, a brief government release said.
Palanisamy had taken up the matter during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this week.
He had urged Modi to approve two Tamil Nadu bills, allowing exemption for the students from the state from appearing in NEET to get admission into medical and dental colleges in the state.
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New Delhi:
Defying warning from China over meeting Tibetan spiritual Dalai Lama, Indian representatives are going to meet the noble prize winner when he visits Arunachal Pradesh this April.
China had already warned India that any understanding with the Tibetan spiritual leader could damage the bilateral ties.
India cleared its stance, saying that the spiritual leader will make a religious trip to Arunachal Pradesh next month, and as a secular nation, India would not stop him from travelling to any part of the country.
Dalai Lamas trip could bring strain in ties with China as the latter takes him as a separatist and it would escalate tension between the two nations. On the other hand, the dragon is cosying up with Pakistan which already drawn forehead lines for India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has dubbed his events as public engagement and Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju would meet the leader after a gap of eight years.
Also Read | South China Sea: China launches new cruise ship to disputed islands
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Mirzapur:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed a Parivartan Sankalp Rally in Mirzapur amid the ongoing Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. Launching a scathing attack on the Samajwadi Party government, PM Modi said that the termite of corruption has hit Uttar Pradesh hard.
Here are the live updates:
#SP and Congress came together. They attacked us when we took decision to demonetise high value currency to fight corruption
#More than 60% farmers benefitted from crop insurance in BJP-ruled states, while only 14% in UP
#I have provided insurance cover for 15 days after crop cutting under the 'Pradhanmantri Fasal Bima Yojna'
#If the farmers get water on time, they can produce gold from soil. I have started a major campaign to provide water to fields
#I don't need to go to poors' homes with cameras to understand what poverty is, I have seen poverty since childhood
#Our aim is to double farmers' income by 2022 when India celebrates her 75th year of independence
#We are bringing gas pipeline from Gujarat to Gorakhpur, this will open new opportunities for development
#There is a good scope of tourism here, but state government never paid heed
#Uttar Pradesh has so much scope of tourism. The Vindhyachal region being close to Kashi can draw people from around the country
#There are four types of corruption in Uttar Pradesh - 'Nazrana', 'Sukrana', 'Hakrana' and 'Jabrana'
#From lodging FIRs to jobs, from pension schemes to ration card, termite of corruption has badly gripped Uttar Pradesh
#Even the High Court pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government over corruption, but all in vain
#The youths here are unemployed because of corruption
#They should not win even a single seat here
#UP government closed the brass industry in Mirzapur, snatching employment from the youth
#UP government never paid attention to development works in the state. Brass industry in UP have been shut
#People ran away with cots from 'khat Sabha' because they knew it belonged to them
#The one (Akhilesh) who doesn't care about his father (Mulayam) talks of working for the public
#'Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas' is our mantra for Uttar Pradesh
#Had Uttar Pradesh been a country, it would have been the fifth largest nation in the world in terms of population
#When Mulayam Singh ji was the Chief Minister of UP, he promised opening up of two new bridges, but why is it that they aren't made yet
#Uttar Pradesh has the power to take the country ahead
#UP elections are about giving opportunities to the state's youth, ensuring safety of people, all round progress of poor
#Elections in Uttar Pradesh has turned into an 'Utsav' of freeing the state from misrule of SP and Congress
#Mirzapur will break all records in voting
With battle of ballots for the Uttar Pradesh Assembly entering the last phase, the focus of all political parties has shifted to the holy city of Varanasi, the Lok Sabha constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The saffron party which has a lot at stake in the last two phases of polling scheduled for March 4 and 8 has moved its war room to Varanasi, entrusting Union ministers and senior leaders with the task of strengthening the campaign with the Prime Minister in the vanguard.
The BJP is also faced with the target of quelling resentment in certain quarters over senior leaders being denied party ticket in these elections.
The importance of the area comprising 89 constituencies, which go to polls in 14 districts of on March 4 and 8, is strengthened by the fact that the prime minister is scheduled to address public meetings in Jaunpur, Mirzapur and Varanasi on March 3, 4 and 5, respectively.
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Kolhapur:
Noted Ambedkarite thinker Dr Krishna Kirwale was found murdered at his house in western Maharashtra's Kolhapur city on Friday. Police said his body was found with multiple stab wounds at his Rajendranagar residence.
Kirwale (62), was the retired head of the Marathi department of Kolhapur's Shivaji University.
Meanwhile, one person has been detained in connection with the murder, police said, adding that an unidentified person hurled stones at the suspect's house.
Among Kirwale's major contributions was a 'Dictionary of Dalit and Gramin (Rural) Literatures', a project undertaken under the aegis of the state government.
Among his other books was a biography of pioneering Dalit litterateur, Baburao Bagul.
Kirwale also lectured widely on issues in Ambedkarite literature in particular, and Marathi literature in general. Police officers didn't comment on possible motive behind the brutal murder.
Kirawale was also the head of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Centre for Research and Development of the varsity before he retired two years ago.
In 2015, communist leader Govind Pansare, 81, and his wife Uma were shot at with 7.65-mm country-made pistols in Kolhapur.
Pansare died later in Mumbai. In 2013, rationalist Narendra Dabholkar (69) was shot dead in Pune by the motorcycle-borne assailants who had pumped four bullets into him, again from a 7.65-mm country-made pistol. Condemning Kirwale's killing, the leader of opposition in the Legislative Council, Dhananjay Munde said the incident shows the collapse of law and order situation in Maharashtra.
"This killing is serious as Kirwale was working in Dabholkar's movement as well," he said. Union minister Ramdas Athawale said the government should order a probe into Kirwale's murder and punish the guilty.
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New Delhi:
Tension between Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and Communist Parties in Kerala intensified through the Thursday night.
Hours after a bomb was hurled at RSS office near Nadapuram in the Kozhikode, CPI-M office in Kozhikode's Vishnumangalam area, was set on fire. However, there were no reports of casualties in later incidents, while at least four people were injured in bomb blast.
On the same night, 2 DYFI activists hacked at Elappulli in Palakkad district.
Rising mercury in Kerala (Read updates till now)
With frequent incidents of alleged violence perpetrated by both camps, the ruling party CPI(M) and RSS have been at cross-roads in the state for at least past eight months, since elections.
The unrest received a fresh impetus on Thursday when Madhya Pradesh-based leader of RSS Kundan Chandrawat announced a bounty of Rs 1 crore on head of Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan in a public event in Ujjain.
The statement drew flak from CPM leaders.
RSS reveals its true colours as a terrorist outfit. Will PM & his government stop remaining silent?, Sitaram Yechury said in a tweet.
Meanwhile, RSS distanced itself from the remark.
RSS doesn't subscribe violent action or words. Violence is Communist creed. History is witness RSS has always responded democratically, RSS leader Rakesh Sinha tweeted.
Bomb hurled at RSS office (Read full story here)
The slug-fest took a violent turn in the evening after a crude bomb was hurled at the RSS office in near Nadapuram in the Kozhikode.
Four RSS workers were injured in the attack. The incident occurred at Kallachi around 8.30 PM. The injured have been identified as Babu, Vineesh, Sudhir and Sunil, they said.
While Babu and Vineesh, who suffered severe injuries in the abdomen and legs, were admitted to the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (KMCH), the other two were taken to a private hospital here, a senior police official said.
CPI (M) office set on fire
On Friday morning, reports surfaced that CPI(M) office in Kozhikode was also set on fire on Thursday night. However, no casualties were reported.
Two DYFI activists hacked
Fresh reports suggest that the violence that ensued over Thursday night injured 2 youth activists associated with DYFI, the student wing of CPI(M).
Kerala: 2 DYFI activists who were hacked in Palakkad district last night are undergoing treatment. pic.twitter.com/q0f3y9vJvb ANI (@ANI_news) March 3, 2017
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New Delhi:
Security agencies have put airports across the country on high alert amid inputs that Rape accused former UP minister Gayatri Prasad Prajapati is planning to fly abroad to evade arrest.
Agencies have also alerted the Uttar Pradesh government in this regard.
49-year-old Prajpati is facing imminent arrest following an FIR lodged against him and six of his accomplices on the apex court order at Gautampalli police station here on February 18 under various sections of the IPC and POCSO Act.
The Uttar Pradesh police had lodged an FIR against Prajapati on the apex courts order for his alleged roles in separate cases of gangrape and an attempt to rape another woman and her minor daughter.
The police have not succeeded in arresting Prajpati and is still clueless about his whereabouts. Suspecting that Prajapati and other accused may flee out of the country, their passports are likely to be cancelled.
On Thursday, police initiated steps to withdraw Y category security to Gayatri Prasad Prajpati as the rape accused Uttar Pradesh minister remains elusive.
Read | I want to see Gayatri Prajapati behind bars, says minor victim
According to reports, people close to Prajapati are trying to help him flee the country.
According to sources, Prajapati may try to flee to Nepal or Dubai.
Sources say that Prajapati's intentions are to try to evade arrest till March 8 when the UP Police is slated to present its reply to the Supreme Court in connection with the case.
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Mumbai:
The Shiv Sena is understood to have failed in its efforts in order to secure the support of Akhil Bharatiya Sena (ABS) Corporator Geeta Gawli for the March 8 Mumbai Mayoral poll.
The Uddhav Thackeray-led outfit, with 84 seats, emerged as the single largest party in the February 21 civic elections but fell well short of the simple majority mark (114 in 227-member BMC) required to install its candidate as Mayor.
Party sources said Gawli on Friday met Sena Minister Eknath Shinde and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Desai at Sena Bhavan but remained non-committal on supporting the party in the poll for the prestigious post.
The deal with Geeta Gawli fell through as she wanted chairmanship of Health Committee in the first year and five-year membership of the Standing Committee in exchange for her support, a source in the Sena said.
Meanwhile, the BJP, which won 80 seats, is also trying to woo the ABS Corporator, who is the daughter of gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli.
Sources in the BJP, which, too, is eyeing Mayors post, said Gawli is scheduled to meet Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Gawli, Desai and Shinde were not available for comments.
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High school juniors have been selected to represent Fremont at Cornhusker Girls State from June 4-10 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln city campus and the State Capitol. Sponsors of the delegates are Fremont Rotary and American Legion Unit 20.
Cornhusker Girls State, inaugurated in Nebraska in 1939, is an effort on the part of the American Legion Auxiliary to provide young women of Nebraska with the knowledge and the fundamental principles of American government through actual practice.
Through a unique citizenship training program, auxiliary members guide the girls of the state toward an understanding, to appreciate their roles as United States citizens.
Cornhusker Girls State is conducted on a learn by doing basis whereby the selected delegates will learn the mechanics of city, county and state government, and the functioning practices of political parties.
The delegates from Archbishop Bergan High School are: Katie Mae Sleister, daughter of Matt and Julie Sleister; Amelia Jo Frost, daughter of Niki Herre; and Meghan J. Dahlauser, daughter of Rebecca Dalhauser and Shay Ranchod.
All states with the exception of Hawaii, conduct Girls State sessions as their major project of Americanism. Each summer, approximately 20,000 young women participate in Girls State sessions across the nation.
Fremont Rotary is the selection committee and financially sponsors delegates to attend Cornhusker Girls State.
New Delhi:
With the battle Uttar Pradesh drawing to a close, News Nation spoke to Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav to find out what are their predictions ahead of the UP assembly poll results. Akhilesh is confident that the SP-Congress alliance will win 300 seats, Lalu predicts a clear cut majority.
Here are the excerpts from Akhilesh Yadav's interview:
#The SP-Congress alliance will get 300 seats
#People have made up their mind that they will again help Samajwadi Party form government in Uttar Pradesh
#We have developed State Highways and bridges, sub-stations have been set up to provide 24-hour electricity
#We are working towards providing 22-24 hours electricity
#Netaji's (Mulayam's) blessings are always with me, I am happy that Lalu is with me in the absence of Netaji
#BJP tried to fight elections on communal edge but didn't succeed
#Now PM Modi is talking about juice, he is confused whether it is coconut oil or juice
#BJP is taking about Muslim votes at a time when the elections are coming to a close, there is no point talking about it now, they should've discussed this at the time of ticket distribution
#I had talked about the advertisement (donkey remark), didn't target any individual. Lalu ji is right in saying "chor ki dadi mein tinka"
#Lalu ji is a family, we have kept Netaji free and Laluji is helping us out
ALSO READ | UP polls: Akhilesh Yadav rubbishes PM Modi's claim of ISI role in Kanpur train mishap
Here are the excerpts from Lalu Yadav's interview:
#Let Mulayamji rest, he is elderly, why bother him?
#Akhilesh is the apple of Mulayam's eye
#AKhilesh is right in saying that PM Modi should touch electric wire to find out whether power is really there or not
#BJP is worried about Delhi
#UP is not semi-final but final of 2019; they lost Bihar, Kolkata, will lose Punjab and UP as well
#PM Modi talks below the belt
UP polls: PM Modi invokes Rahul Gandhi's 'khat' incident in Mirzapur to attack Akhilesh Yadav
#Akhilesh ji never uses derogatory comments against anyone, he speaks very polite langauge
#PM Modi is just concerned about his chair in Delhi. He uses derogatory phrases like 'raincoat', 'washroom', 'kabristan'
#There is no confusion, I am predicting a clear-cut majority
#Nobody trusts Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, they have broken people's trust. They have not fulfilled even a single promise they made in 2014
ALSO READ | UP polls: Akhilesh hits back, says not doing any work is PM Modi's biggest 'karnama'
#Jat voters are against BJP
#People are against PM Narendra Modi's demonetisation move
#BJP wants polarisation
#Remarks like 'shamshan' and 'kabristan' show BJP's failure
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Kansas:
A Kansas man who survived an apparently racially motivated shooting at a suburban Kansas City bar has been released from the hospital.
Ian Grillot was one of three men shot February 22 at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas. One of the men, Srinivas Kuchibhotla, was killed. Kuchibhotlas friend, Alok Madasani, was wounded.
Also Read: Kansas hate attack: Ian Grillot, a 'Good Samaritan' who took bullet on his chest to save a life
The University of Kansas Health System said in a statement on Thursday that Grillot was released from the hospital on Tuesday.
A bullet hit Grillot in the hand and entered his chest when he tried to stop the suspected gunman, 51-year-old Adam Puriton, of Olathe. Puriton is charged with murder and attempted murder.
Witnesses say Puriton shouted racial slurs before shooting Kuchibhotla and Madasani, natives of India who were engineers at GPS-maker Garmin.
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Houston:
Ian Grillot, who was injured while trying to intervene during a racially-motivated shooting in Kansas in which an Indian techie was killed, has been released from hospital and invited to India to be recognised for his heroics.
The University of Kansas Health System confirmed that the 24-year-old has gone home, but there's still a long road to recovery after he took two bullets, in the hand and the chest. "He has been through many hurdles since the shooting and still faces physician appointments and other critical meetings in the days ahead," the hospital said in a statement.
Ian was injured when he tried to stop the February 22 shooting of the two Indian techies in Olathe area. Srinivas Kuchibhotla, 32, was killed in the attack, while Alok Madasani was injured. Ian was released late Tuesday after spending nearly a week in medical care. He went back to the hospital on Thursday to meet with Anupam Ray, consul-general of the Indian consulate in Houston. Ray told Ian and his family that people in India were grateful for his heroics during the deadly melee, according to the hospital.
An invitation was extended to Ian and his family to travel to India once he got the medical green light to travel. Following his release earlier this week, Ian attended church on Wednesday and then returned to the crime scene for "closure," according to the hospital statement. Adam Purington, 51, is accused of the shooting and faces both murder and attempted murder charges. The navy veteran is reported to have been harassing Kuchibhotla and Madasani who both worked at GPS-maker Garmin because he thought they were Iranian.
Purington allegedly yelled "get out of my country" before opening gunfire on the pair, striking both along with Ian. As he spoke to reporters on Tuesday, Ian recalled how he escorted Purington out of the bar where the shooting happened after he was seen harassing the engineers. About half an hour later, Ian recalled, the shooter was back and firing.
"By the time he was done shooting, that's when I got up and tried to chase the...guy down," he said. "When I was chasing him down, trying to subdue him so that way he could be held responsible for his terrible actions, that's when he turned around and shot." Purington escaped, however, and was arrested hours later at an Applebees about 70 miles away from the crime scene. Grillot said Tuesday he didn't want to weigh in on what type of punishment Purington should get if he's found guilty, nor if he thought it was a hate crime.
But that doesn't mean he's ready to forgive the suspected gunman anytime soon. "I do feel sympathy for him, but his actions were unjustified and uncalled for," he said. Many have considered it a racially-motivated attack, calling on the White House to take action. President Trump, in his first address to a joint session of Congress, also condemned the attack.
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Washington:
An influential US lawmaker has asserted that Pakistan must crackdown on terror groups like the LeT or handover terrorists to international tribunals for trials so that justice is served,
"Pakistan needs to crackdown on groups like the LeT, close down those campuses as well. Pakistan needs to understand that if they are not going to bring perpetrators of the terrorist attacks to justice they should turn them over to The Hague so that they can be tried in international tribunals and justice can be served," Congressman Ed Royce said on Thursday.
The Chairman of powerful House Foreign Relations Committee was speaking at an event hosted by Vivekananda International Foundation, New Delhi-based think-tank, at the US Capitol.
He also said that Pakistan needs to be serious about closing down 600 Deobandi madrassas in the country, underlining that there is a prevailing sentiment in the Congress and Trump administration that such schools are breeding ground for terrorists.
"I think, the sentiments are Pakistan needs to be serious about closing down the Deobandi schools, there are about 600 of them as they churn out people who do not know what to do except to really either argue for or carry out jihad," he said.
A founding member of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, Royce said the Congress and the new Administration is focused on some new issues.
"One is that concept of USD 500 billion in trade between India and the US. That is where we are trying to push the policies...So we need an effective bilateral trade agreement treaty with India. We are pushing to liberalise trade further," Royce said.
Also Read | Re-investigate 26/11 Mumbai attack case, put JuD chief Hafiz Saeed on trial: India tells Pakistan
"At the same time, we are delighted that among the Indian-American population that we have in the United States, one half of them have post graduate degrees. When we think about what that pertains...we know that there is a very bright future for Indian-Americans," he said.
India and the US, he said, should form their policies on the "core values of rule of law, democracy, freedom of expression and freedom of believe". "We do not always hit the mark in the US. Those are our goals. India does not always hit the mark. But those are India?s goals," he said.
India, he said, is now the ninth largest trading partner of the US. The counter-terrorism co-operation has also increased over the past several years and the defence ties has strengthened in the last one decade, he said.
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New Delhi/Washington:
US Democrat Senator Mark Warner and his Republican colleague in the Senate Dan Sullivan on Thursday expressed concern over Pak terror threat to India.
Speaking at a programme in Washington DC, the top US Senators said while India and the US have a very strong relationship between the intelligence community, there is an enormous concern not only about Pakistans role in the unrest in Kashmir, but also the terrorist organisations from Pakistan.
Warner said that it is in the best interest of Pakistan not to differentiate between different groups of terrorists.
Praising Indias patience, Warner said India today has risen to a place where it sees itself as a major international partner. I want to send a strong message that Pakistani cant play both ways, supporting one group of terrorists one hand and taking action against the others, he said.
Read | Indo-Pak to hold parleys on various aspects of Indus Water Treaty in Islamabad
Sullivan said there is always an area of common interest with India.
I believe we can have strong relationship with both countries particularly in the area of international terrorism, he said.
Warner also strongly pushed for selling the state-of-the-art guardian drones to India which is going to be the next great thing of defence collaboration between both countries.
Warner and Sullivan asserted that the erstwhile Obama Administration and the US Congress designating India as a major defence partner is a significant step forward in taking the India-US relationship to the next level.
Read | First US drone strike under Trump administration kills 2 Afghan Taliban leaders in Pakistan
While the two lawmakers were strong on India-US co-operation in Asia Pacific region, in particular South China Sea, both appeared to be quite soft to when it came to Indias interest with regard to terrorist safe havens in Pakistan which has been responsible for a number of terrorist attacks from across the border.
Senator Sullivan argued the case for joint military operation by India and the US in areas of common interest.India, notably has shown reluctance to such a proposal from the US so far.
Warner, who is Co-Chair of the Senate India caucus and Ranking member of powerful Senate Select Committee on Intelligence expressed his displeasure of the bureaucracy from the US State Department and Department of Defense in selling the guardian drones to India.
India had requested for the purchase of a significant number of guardian drones for maritime surveillance, especially in the Indian Ocean.
Read | Pakistan rakes up Kashmir issue at 34th Session of UNHRC
I have been frustrated with the Defence and State Department in terms of the sale of guardian drones. This is going to be the next great thing of defence collaboration, Warner said, as he expressed his disappointment over what he said Indias inability to absorb the requirement of 30 per cent offset.
Major Defence Partnership which he said moves India into the category of non-NATO type ally, is a great step in the right direction.
Actually this (Major Defence Partner) status that is unique to India. The idea is to actually institutionalise (the relationship), Sullivan said in his remarks at the Widrow Wilson Center, a top American think-tank.
(With Inputs from PTI)
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Islamabad:
Pakistan said on Friday that it has sought more information from India on alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav who is under its detention.
Pakistan Prime Ministers Advisor on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, during the Question Hour session in the Senate, said a case was being prepared to prosecute the alleged Indian spy arrested last year in March.
A list of questions has also been handed over to India to seek more information from them in the light of the statements of Kulbhushan Jadhav, he said, without elaborating when the questionnaire was given to New Delhi.
The discussion started when Senator Talha Mehmood asked Aziz whether the government was planning to hand over Jadhav to India like it extradited CIA contractor Raymond Davis in 2011 who had killed two men in Lahore.
Aziz rejected the statement and said the government was not considering any option to extradite the alleged Indian spy back to his country.
We have prepared an FIR and a case is in the process of registration to prosecute (the) Indian state actor for involvement in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan, Aziz said.
He claimed that the arrested spy had confessed his involvement in militancy and there was no question of lack of evidence against him.
Aziz said Pakistan has shared a dossier with the UN Secretary General on the alleged Indian involvement in Pakistans internal affairs and in subversive and terrorist activities.
This dossier includes details about Kulbhushan Jadhav and his activities, he said.
Aziz said the government is also examining the possibility of sharing the dossier with other countries and international organisations.
Talking about the dossier presented to the UN chief, Aziz said it was based on thorough groundwork and inputs from various departments.
This is a very delicate and sensitive issue and requires detailed preparations and home work as it relates to direct or indirect involvement of Indian state actor in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan, he said.
Aziz also claimed that the world was accepting Pakistans position on the issue of Indias alleged involvement in militancy.
The government also came under criticism from the opposition when Pakistan Peoples Party Senator Aitzaz Ahsan asked why Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has never taken the name of the arrested spy.
I had announced that if Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif mentions the name of Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav in his speech, I will donate Rs 50,000 to Pakistan Association of the Blind, he said.
Ahsan asked Aziz if the Premier has spoken about Jadhav. However, Aziz said that the Prime Minister will speak about Jadhav at an appropriate time.
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New Delhi:
Sparking an immediate controversy, a Polish Member of the European Parliament has said that woman should earn less than man because they are "smaller, weaker and less intelligent."
During a debate on gender pay gap, Janusz Korwin-Mikke said that woman should rightfully earn less than man. His statment erupted a fierce backlash on social media and among political bigwigs of Europe.
According to a report published in rt.com, the right-wing politician claimed that there are no women on the list of world's top Chess players. He also said that women are also weaker in the field of physics.
The 74-years-old MEP from the remote region of Silesia stated, "Of course women must earn less than men because they are weaker, they are smaller and they are less intelligent, they must earn less, thats all."
Criticising Korwin-Mikkes misogynist remarks, MEP for Malta Roberta Metsola termed the comment offensive to women. She said that the comment also betrays the values of the entire EU.
Another Malta MEP, Miriam Dalli, described Mikkes statment as detrimental to society as a whole.
Janusz Korwin-Mikke has remained in news for his sexist views in the past as well.Previously he claimed that women should be denied the right to vote, as they want to be led by men.
For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Washington:
The Trump administrations back-to-back controversies over its Russian ties now have at least one thing in common: Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Moscows top diplomat in the US has become the Kevin Bacon of the Trump White Houses Russia imbroglio. A Washington fixture with a sprawling network, he has emerged as the central figure in the investigations into Trump advisers connections with Russia.
In a matter of weeks, contact with Kislyak led to the firing of a top adviser to the president and on Thursday prompted calls for the attorney general to resign.
Separately, a White House official confirmed Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner and ousted national security adviser Michael Flynn met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in December for what the official called a brief courtesy meeting.
Flynn was pushed out of the White House in February after officials said he misled Vice President Mike Pence about whether he and the ambassador had discussed US sanctions against Russia in a phone call.
At issue on Thursday were two meetings between Sessions and Kislyak, one in July and another in September, at the height of concern over Russias involvement in hacking of Democratic officials emails accounts.
Intelligence officials have since concluded Moscow ordered the hacks to tilt the election toward Trump. In his confirmation hearing, the Alabama Republican denied having contact with any Russian officials, neglecting to mention the meetings with Kislyak, which were first reported by the Washington Post.
The Russian Embassy did not respond to a request for comment.
Although the White House dismissed the revelation as part of a political witch hunt, Sessions former colleagues took the omission seriously.
At the urging of some in his own party, Sessions recused himself from the Department of Justices investigation. Still, Democrats called for him to step down.
Observers note Kislyak is a somewhat unlikely figure to cause controversy. Over the course of a long diplomatic career, hes led the life of a somewhat typical global envoy making himself a reliable presence on the circuit of receptions, teas and forums that make up the calendar of any ambassador.
Kislyak, who was appointed to his post in 2008, is regularly spotted walking around town, heading to and from meetings.
Early in his tenure, he often opened the doors of the Russian Embassy, hosting dinners for foreign policy professionals, Pentagon officials, journalists and Capitol Hill staffers.
For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
FREMONT Liz Murray has been called a bootstrapper people who pull themselves out of a desperate situation.
The term seems to fit. She grew up in a home with drug-addicted parents and became homeless as a teenager and stopped going to school. A life-changing experience drew her back to school and eventually led her to Harvard.
But bootstrapper is not a term she readily accepts.
I actually have a problem with that, she said during a pair of speeches Tuesday and Wednesday at Midland University. I think that when we speak about people that way, we discount the need for education and teachers, mentors, community. No one gets where theyre going alone.
Murray, who has been featured on the made-for-TV movie Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story, was the keynote speaker for the second annual All Minds Matter Conference. Hosted at Midland, the conference is organized by Education Service Unit No. 2 in Fremont and funded through a grant from the Fremont Area Community Foundation.
This year, All Minds Matter focused on societal issues facing youth. Other keynote speakers included Dr. Mark and Joni Adler, who shared a personal perspective on teen suicide; Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson, who discussed the negative physical and mental side effects of teen marijuana use; and representatives of The Kim Foundation, which is dedicated to increasing awareness and promoting continued education related to mental illness.
Additionally, there were breakout sessions led by the Fremont Area United Way and Fremont Family Coalition, Fremont Public Schools, Project Harmony and Midland Universitys Personal and Career Development Center.
It was Murrays story that started off the conference, giving the students and educators in attendance something to consider throughout the event.
It is a little odd to be known as the Homeless to Harvard person, Murray said. I never had any intention of that happening.
The Bronx, New York, native didnt shy away from giving details of her life. As a child, she and her older sister lived in a home where both parents openly used drugs, where food was scarce, and everyone worked to survive until the first day of the next month when the government assistance check arrived in the mailbox.
Eventually, her parents drug addiction and the health issues that followed forced the family to break up. Her mother was in and out of hospitals the rest of her life. Her father was in a homeless shelter. Her older sister went to stay with family friends.
But Murray felt threatened in group homes, so she ended up shuffling between friends couches, dropping out of school and eventually spending time on the street.
I just really checked out, she said. Have you ever been in a place in your life where you completely its not that it has to be as dramatic as being homeless but maybe inside youve given up on yourself? Youve shut down? I was sleeping at my friends houses as an adolescent and fell into sleeping in subways and parks and train stations. I was floating and I completely dropped out.
And then I had some life-changing experiences which sent me back to get my education.
That life-changing experience was the death of her mother. It sparked her to seek out alternative high schools she eventually was accepted by Humanities Preparatory Academy to get her education.
In my gut, it was the difference between wanting to be here and not wanting to be here, Murray said. I really found almost a purpose and a reason to live. When I had that experience, I was so thrilled because I started feeling, well maybe, I can share that with people.
Murray started out sharing her experiences with small groups of students in New York public schools. The size of the groups grew. And then ABC News decided to tell her story on its 20/20 program.
Thats when you know your life has gotten really weird, she said.
Today, she works to remind audiences that a common thread runs through humanity.
I dont think that Im unlike you. I think that when we see someone sleeping outside, or we think of someone in a dire circumstance, we can miss what we have in common with them, Murray said. I was just like you. I didnt lose my humanity because I had no place to live. I still had what I know we all have. That part of you that dreams, I had that just like anyone else, no matter where I slept. I could still close my eyes at night and dream of a better life.
Murray also wants people to know more mentors are needed for todays youth. And there are ways to be effective as a mentor.
What I learned, if you treat someone like theyre broken, they will behave like they need to be fixed, she said. If you are hard on someone and you employ shame, you will shame them. And that doesnt work either. But there is something else that is an option, which is that you accept the human being 100 percent, and that its abundantly clear that they are accepted. But you hold them accountable for their behavior. When you do that for somebody, you hold the bar higher, you give them the opportunity to rise to the occasion. You give them the opportunity through their own behavior to build self-esteem.
Still, she worries about the world.
I worry for this world because when people look at these issues, they get so overwhelmed, and they make the worst possible mistake they can make, which is they shut down. We decide its too big, we cant fix all of it, and we do nothing, she said. The next time youre tempted to turn away from what seems impossible for you or the people around you, I would ask that you please remember that one time you went to an auditorium and I stood in front of you, and I reminded you that people can be good. Will you remember that?
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One of the largest development projects in town history is about to get a lot larger.
A load that is setting new weight standards is slowly very slowly making its way to Oxford to be part of the CPV Towantic Energy Center, a natural-gas-fired power plant under construction near Waterbury-Oxford Airport. The first of six shipments of turbines and generators weighs more than a million pounds; anything above 80,000 pounds requires a permit from the state.
This is really unprecedented, said David Hiscox, manager of bridge operations for the state Department of Transportation, calling it the largest load in his 15 years on the job.
On Thursday, the load was set to travel through the Litchfield County towns of New Hartford and Barkhamsted on its journey from Windsor Locks to Oxford. The 20-axle cars carrying 200-foot-long cargo move at 3 to 5 miles per hour. They only travel at night to avoid blocking traffic.
The first arrival is slated for sometime next week, depending on the weather.
The largest pieces of the power plant are transported via rail as close as possible to the final destination. In this case, rail lines closer than Windsor Locks werent wide enough to carry the load, so it must take to the roads. State police monitor and escort the trucks throughout the route.
The path was plotted by J. Supor & Son Trucking & Rigging Co., out of New Jersey, which is hauling the load, with approval from the DOT. Complicating matters are 56 bridges along the route, 10 of which require jumping using special equipment.
Hiscox described the equipment as portable bridges the trailers drive over that help spread the weight as it crosses over a regular bridge. The jumper bridges are hauled by tractor-trailer and have to be unloaded with cranes, further slowing the transportation process.
Its not the first mega-load to arrive at the power plant in this manner, Hiscox said, citing a 650,000-pound piece of equipment that arrived via ship in New Haven and was transported over the roads to Oxford last year.
Maryland-based Competitive Power Ventures is building the 785-megawatt power plant on Woodruff Hill Road, near the Middlebury town line. The plant is scheduled to begin operation next year.
hbailey@ctpost.com; 203-330-6233
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Almost anything sounds delightful with Waterworks co-owner Barbara Sallicks knack for delivering quirky, yet fitting descriptions.
The luxury bathroom and kitchen design stores newly expanded Greenwich showroom is yummy and delicious, while the color of her homes bathroom, in Sallick-speak, is like coffee with lots and lots of milk.
What does bathroom design gone wrong look like according to the business owner and author on the topic? As I say, a dogs dinner, Sallick said, as her own pup, LuLu, wandered underfoot during an opening event for the showroom Thursday evening.
Keeping design simple and uncluttered drives Sallicks message on how to create the perfect bathroom, as well as the design of Waterworks redone showroom.
In the monthslong renovations in its storefront on West Putnam Avenue, Waterworks, which is based in Danbury, re-organized its bathroom items and added space. It took over 1,200 square feet of what was formerly occupied by a Chase bank to show off its kitchen designs.
The new displays offer something for clients with traditional tastes, in addition to an ode to midcentury, Sallick said. Waterworks appeals to diverse styles, but the store includes pops of her particular preferences, such as her idea that backsplashes stop too soon.
The midcentury style kitchen features a gray tiled backsplash that covers most of the walls and an island made from two-inch-thick Vermont stone one of Sallicks favorites. Its so yummy, isnt it? she said.
Waterworks expansion arrives as the company nears its 40-year birthday. It has had a store in Greenwich for two decades.
Sallick and her husband, Robert, founded the company in 1978 and opened the first store in their hometown of Danbury. It was a bad time to be in the market of bath design, Sallick said, laughing at an issue thats funny only in hindsight, and with their eventual success.
There were no bath showrooms in the U.S. at the time, Sallick said, because people werent as interested in investing in nice bathrooms.
We opened our first showroom and nobody cared, so nobody came, she said. At some juncture, I realized if we were going to make this business succeed, I had to become the educator and evangelist for better bathrooms. We had to repay our bank loans.
So Sallick set to work spreading the good news about how a well-designed bathroom could be a homeowners private sanctuary. It took almost 10 years for her message to catch on, she said.
In 1987, I got a call from the first client, who, for the first time, came and asked for a bathroom just like her hotel bathroom, she said. Im about as stubborn as you can imagine, and all of a sudden, this whole shift happened.
Today, Waterworks has showrooms in 13 cities and Sallicks son, Peter, has taken over as CEO. Barbara Sallick and her husband stay closely involved with the company, but they continue to spread the word about better baths and kitchens with other projects.
Barbara Sallick has published three books, including her most recent ,The Perfect Bath, and she plans to write a fourth on the perfect kitchen. I still have a lot to learn about the kitchen, she said.
Much of her research will be done on Instagram, which she joined to keep track of her grandchildren, but has found it helpful in keeping track of designs by doing that nutty thing where you click and push, otherwise known as a screenshot.
Waterworks Greenwich showroom is at 23 W. Putnam Ave. More information about Barbara Sallicks designs can be found on her blog at www.theperfectbath.com/.
MBennett@greenwich
time.com, 203-625-4411; Twitter @Macaela_
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NEW FAIRFIELD For nearly three hours, dozens of residents around Candlewood Lake spoke against a proposal to use herbicides and algaecides to treat Eurasian watermilfoil and blue-green algae, both of which have plagued the lake for years.
More than 150 residents filled the cafeteria at Meeting House Hill School to comment and learn about the proposal drafted by Solitude Lake Management, a consulting company that addressed lake issues at a September forum organized by First Selectman Susan Chapman.
A permit must be approved by the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection before the program can proceed.
DEEP should deny (the permit) based on the will of the people, and the health and environmental concerns, said Scott Randall, a Sherman man who started an online petition against the proposal in January.
Most of the concerns focused on health risks and possible negative effects the chemicals would have on the environment.
Residents criticized the selectmen for not consulting property owners, the other lake towns or the Candlewood Lake Authority before signing the agreement.
They said the $30,000 selectmen set aside to help cover most of the $52,400 application cost was approved by 14 voters at a town meeting to cover Candlewood Lake studies, not this program.
Under the proposal, the company would apply a herbicide with Diquot in mid-May to about 50 acres in Town Park Cove and 10 acres in Shelter Harbor Cove to treat the watermilfoil. It would make up to four applications of copper sulfate to treat the algae, or cyanobacteria, when a bloom occurs or is about to occur.
Ken Wagner, a consultant hired by New Fairfield, started the meeting by saying the proposed methods have risks that needed to be weighed against the rewards. He said the amounts of chemicals are low enough to reduce those risks.
Please dont twist the science to say someone is trying to poison the lake, he said.
Marc Bellaud, of Solitude Lake Management, said the program would demonstrate if the chemicals can work well with the sterile grass carp, which were introduced in 2015 to eat the milfoil. It will also test if the carp will eat more of the milfoil that grows after the chemical is applied.
He said the chemicals are very commonly used in Connecticut and nearby lakes, though not with the sterile grass carp.
Town officials have said the chemicals would assist the fish in controlling the milfoil, not replacing them, but many speakers were concerned the chemicals, especially the copper would kill the carp.
Most asked officials to give the carp time to be effective, which generally take two to four years.
The state approved 3,800 carp in the initial stocking, and DEEP officials announced at Thursdays meeting it would approve another 3,000 fish this year, bringing the total to the preferred ratio of 15 fish per acre of milfoil.
Peter Aarrestad, director of the of DEEPs fisheries division, said they stocked fewer at first because they wanted to address initial concerns in the first year, such as whether the fish would escape.
Phyllis Schaer, chairwoman of Candlewood Lake Authority, said the chemical solution was a reaction to symptoms rather than causes, adding they should allow the carp program to work.
If you plant an orchard and dont get apples the first year, you dont cut down all of the trees, she said.
She added the two treatment sites are stocking areas, and this program would prevent them from putting fish there.
Pat Delmonico, chairwoman of the towns Inland and Wetlands Commission, said the commission unanimously opposed the proposal saying it was counterproductive to add it so soon after the carp were introduced to the lake. She said not enough research exists to show the chemicals wouldnt harm the carp.
Other speakers said they were worried about adding the chemical to the water in the event the lake was needed as a reservoir, which Danbury is considering because of drought conditions, and the chemicals could affect the wells around the lake.
Some speakers questioned the science behind the chemicals safety. Consultants and the DEEP official in charge of the permit process said studies done as part of the Environmental Protection Agencys registration process confirmed the science. Diquot was last registered in the 1990s, though it has been used since the 1960s.
A few speakers favored the proposal, including John Hodge, a New Fairfield delegate on the Candlewood Lake Authority.
Sometimes you need to use the proper chemicals in the appropriate amounts to get better, he said, comparing it to chemotherapy.
DEEP will receive comments for two weeks after the application is received. Comments can be emailed to deep.
pesticidepermitting@ct.gov .
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New restrictions from the state limit what kind of foods students can put on share tables, which allow kids to donate uneaten food for classmates who may be hungry.
The concept of share tables has been promoted by the U.S. Agriculture Department as a way to reduce waste, but it is up to local governments to determine what health codes will allow. Under a Connecticut policy updated in January, unopened milk, most fruits and the like are off the table.
Not many schools in Connecticut use share tables, said John Frassinelli, bureau chief from the state Department of Educations Bureau of Health/Nutrition, who met with school officials last week. Although the idea has become more popular in other areas of the country.
Bethel is one of the only districts in the area that has embraced the concept at its middle and high schools.
Theresa Yonsky, director of fiscal services for the district, said the tables help food that would have otherwise been thrown away go to good use.
We were concerned with the waste, she said. And now and again you might have a child that was in a hurry and didnt bring a lunch. This way they can take an apple and have something in the middle of the day.
Under the new restrictions, apples and other fruits that consumers wouldnt remove the peel from before eating, arent allowed. Yonsky said she wasnt aware of these restrictions, but upon learning what they were, thought they make perfect sense.
Bethel already takes measures to prevent spoilage, she said, which is the reason many foods are now barred by the state.
In addition to certain fruits, the restrictions also doesnt allow meat items, milk and any food items packaged by the schools food service staff. Commercially pre-packaged foods are still okay.
It has to be an appropriate piece of food, Yonsky said, noting that the elementary school doesnt use share tables because they dont serve many foods that would sit well. At the end of the day whatevers not consumed is discarded, so we havent worried about spoilage.
David Kennedy, director of dining services for Redding, Easton and Region 9 districts, said the idea has come up in the past, but the districts ultimately decided against it.
Some parents were talking about doing it, he said. But there was a worry of whos going to take care of it at and guarantee the food is safe. We didnt want to have that liability.
Kennedy said they worried who would take the food at the end of the day and whether it would be sanitary for kids to share. Since those original conversations, he said, it hasnt been brought up again.
Share tables, if they were to be used, would need approval from the Board of Education.
The USDA's Food and Nutrition Service in a June 2016 memo endorsed setting up stations where schoolchildren can return food or beverage items and make them available to others. While the federal government recommended sharing of fruit and unopened milk that is kept cold, it noted that local food and safety codes may be more restrictive.
The idea has not caught on widely in American schools, said John Williamson, the president of Food Rescue, which works with schools to reduce waste. The national leader is Indiana, where he founded the organization, with some 400 schools running share tables or recovering food for pantries.
An education department spokeswoman, Abbe Smith, said student health and safety was the top priority in creating the new restrictions.
We support share tables as a strategy for addressing food waste and as an opportunity for a child to share uneaten food with a classmate who would like a little more, she said. We developed guidelines in collaboration with the Department of Public Health to ensure that any food that gets shared is safe for another child to eat.
Michael Melia of The Associated Press contributed to this report.
aquinn@newstimes.com
Over the last 20 years, Ive traveled across six continents, 42 states, 84 countries and more than 500 cities -- mostly for free. Here are my top five tips for you to travel for free (or almost) while building your business or career:
Before you quit to start your business, apply for jobs that pay you to travel and rack up points. One of my first criteria for applying for a job is whether I am working with clients or team members in another region.
My first job out of college entailed meeting with key influencers to launch products in every major city in the U.S. Thats 30 states conquered in one year, along with 200,000 frequent flyer miles, which paid for my first trip to Italy and France. Now, I have more than 500,000 miles at my disposal for business trips to pitch my startups.
Related: How to (Legally) Deduct Your Next Business Trip
2. Be loyal to the major airline alliances.
My next job required regular meetings with strategic partner companies in Germany and Denmark. Rather than randomly picking airlines when I traveled, I chose the Star Alliance network with a hub at Newark Airport. This enabled me to fly direct from my home base in New York for meetings in Frankfurt and Copenhagen, or any other destination. I was able to keep accumulating points using my Star Alliance membership across member airlines.
To choose between Star Alliance, OneWorld, SkyTeam or AsiaMiles, find the ones that flies most to the region you are focused on conquering. By choosing Star Alliance partners, I was able to keep accumulating points in one account and "level up" to platinum elite levels for free upgrades, executive lounge access and bonus points (100 to 200 percent more).
This applied at my next four global jobs, when I was flying more to Asia or the Middle East. I was still able to choose flights from the top two most extensive airline networks, OneWorld and Star Alliance, and earn upgrades on almost every flight. Loyalty certainly has its privileges.
Related: 11 Strategies for More Efficient Business Travel
3. Use business credit cards with membership points -- especially when they first first launch.
Every business and reimbursable travel expense should be charged on the credit card with the most valuable and versatile membership points. For example, American Express Gold allows you to transfer points to airlines or hotels clubs or to buy tickets directly using your membership points. Some credit cards, like British Airways or Chase Sapphire Reserve, offered a launch bonus of 100,000 points and no/reduced fee for the first year; these points are worth a few trips to Europe or Asia. More than eight years later, I still havent used up all my points from these bonuses yet.
Chase Sapphire Reserve has the added bonus of a $300 travel credit per year, $100 off the Global Entry application fee and complimentary access to more than 900 airport executive lounges with Priority Pass Select, all of which offset its higher annual fee. Along with the 100,000 points bonus, that's worth over $2,100! Always jump on those launch incentives.
Related: 3 Ways to Travel the World for Free through Entrepreneurship
4. Always tack on a side trip to your primary business trip.
Most of the time, flights are more expensive coming home on Friday because everyone else wants to go home as well. Take the following Monday off and fly home off-peak or on a red-eye on Sunday. This way, you can visit a neighboring country or city over the weekend or fly a low-cost regional airline to some place you havent been yet. Using points for regional flights is much cheaper than from your home base.
For example, flights on British Airways all throughout Europe to its Asian neighbors can be as low as 5,000 to 10,000 points. When I was a management consultant working in the Middle East, instead of expensing the weekend in the hotel there, I chose to use my Avios points (earned on my British Airways credit card and flights) to fly to and stay in Sri Lanka, Dubai, Egypt, Maldives, Jordan, Oman and Lebanon for free or much cheaper than flying from New York.
Related: 10 Ways to Save Time and Money while Traveling for Business
5. Choose free stopovers at airline hubs.
Many airlines offer free stopovers in their hub city. According to the airline rules, you can stay one to five days without additional fees in Iceland on Iceland Air, Hong Kong on Cathay Pacific, Dubai on Emirates or London on British Airways. Typically, you can see most of the major sites in 48 hours in those cities. In Iceland, the Blue Lagoon has a 10-minute bus shuttle to take you from the airport to the famous milky blue hot springs for a massage while floating on a foam mat -- and it gets you back in time for your flight five to eight hours later.
For subsequent trips, you can use your points to book a flight to another country during the stopover period. For example, Macau, Tokyo, Osaka, Taipei, Kaohsiung and Singapore are easily accessible for the weekend from Hong Kong during the stopover. Hong Kong has a convenient Airport Express check-in that enables you to send your bags onto your flight 24 hours in advance while you take a ferry to Macau for the rest of the day and then another ferry straight to the airport.
On my way to Bali, I chose Korean Airlines, which enabled me to stop over in Seoul and enjoy a spa day, Korean barbecue, walking tour of the old town and karaoke, for 24 hours before continuing my journey.
While these may be whirlwind opportunities to see nearby countries, youll get a pretty good sense of whether you want to go back. With the points you are accumulating on business, you can always go back for personal vacations for free. Through all these ways, the world can be conquered for free, one point at a time!
Related:
What to Pack for Your Next Business Trip
How to Travel the World for Free (or Cheaply) While Building Your Business
How to (Legally) Deduct Your Next Business Trip
Copyright 2017 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
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STAMFORD The sight of someone with a gun strapped on the hip could be alarming in a downtown area where people are going to concerts or eating outdoors at a restaurant, the citys police chief said.
But officers are handcuffed when they investigate these incidents, Stamford Police Chief Jon Fontneau said.
Fontneau and about 50 others, including state law enforcement officials and legislators, gathered Thursday at the Stamford police station to promote a proposed bill that would require gun owners to present their carry permit when requested by police.
We believe it just makes sense that if you openly carry a firearm, you must have a gun permit and you must produce that gun permit to an officer period, Fontneau said.
State law now only allows police to request a persons gun permit if the officer has reasonable suspicion a crime is being committed. The situation has caused several tense confrontations, including a January incident in Bridgeport that was filmed by the gun carrier.
However, Rich Burgess, president of the Connecticut Carry organization, said the proposed bill is a rotten thing to do to someone."
You are saying that a cop can stop you without reasonable, articulable suspicion ... to stop somebody without any reason, without suspicion of a crime, said Burgess, who did not attend the news conference.
The proposed bill, authored by state representatives from Stamford, William Tong, Caroline Simmons and Daniel Fox, would allow an officer to request a gun carriers permit if the weapon is visible. A public hearing before the state Judiciary Committee is scheduled for March 15 in Hartford.
We have to give them (police) the opportunity to ask for a permit. Its just common sense, said Tong, co-chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.
If Im on the Mianus River fishing, and an environmental enforcement officer asks for my fishing permit, I have to show it to him. I go to the airport, I have to show my drivers license. This is just the cost of the basic privilege of doing what we all do.
But Burgess said the bill is a way to harass people lawfully exercising their rights to armed self-defense.
The proponents of the bill seek to chill the right to carry a firearm, especially unconcealed, since they do not have the support to ban it altogether, which is their real goal, Burgess said.
Eric Milgram, whose son and daughter survived the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, said the bill is more than about the Second Amendment. The former National Rifle Association member said the proposal is also about the First Amendment.
The 6-foot-4 Milgram demonstrated his point by walking up to the smaller Tong in a threatening manner.
Look at my size, Milgram said. Imagine if I have a gun strapped to my hip and the officers over there cant do a thing about it as I verbally assault (Tong). Is that right?
Stamford Mayor David Martin pointed to a hypothetical situation if a person armed with a gun was standing outside a mosque, church or community center.
Are you kidding me? The police cant even ask if they are carrying a permit, he said. This is a no-brainer.
jnickerson@stamfordadvocate.com
Product photos are available at: http://bit.ly/2m25x9Y
OTTAWA, March 2, 2017 /CNW/ - The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) is recalling Georgian Bay brand Vodka from the marketplace due to high alcohol content. Consumers should not consume the recalled product described below.
This recall was initiated after the discovery that, during production, one batch was bottled before correct dilution to achieve the stated 40% alcohol content by volume. As a result, the affected batch has alcohol content by volume of 81%.
The following product has been sold in Ontario.
Recalled product
Brand Product Size UPC Codes Georgian Bay Vodka 750 mL 6 27843 36216 6 Batch 19
What you should do
Check to see if you have recalled product in your home. Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the store where they were purchased.
Background
This recall was triggered by the company. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. If other high-risk products are recalled, the CFIA will notify the public through updated Food Recall Warnings.
The CFIA is verifying that industry is removing recalled product from the marketplace.
Illnesses
There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product.
More information
SOURCE Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
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Researchers report that theyve come up with a new way to encode digital data in DNA to create the highest-density large-scale data storage scheme ever invented. Capable of storing 215 petabytes (215 million gigabytes) in a single gram of DNA, the system could, in principle, store every bit of datum ever recorded by humans in a container about the size and weight of a couple of pickup trucks. But whether the technology takes off may depend on its cost.
DNA has many advantages for storing digital data. Its ultracompact, and it can last hundreds of thousands of years if kept in a cool, dry place. And as long as human societies are reading and writing DNA, they will be able to decode it. DNA wont degrade over time like cassette tapes and CDs, and it wont become obsolete, says Yaniv Erlich, a computer scientist at Columbia University. And unlike other high-density approaches, such as manipulating individual atoms on a surface, new technologies can write and read large amounts of DNA at a time, allowing it to be scaled up.
Scientists have been storing digital data in DNA since 2012. That was when Harvard University geneticists George Church, Sri Kosuri, and colleagues encoded a 52,000-word book in thousands of snippets of DNA, using strands of DNAs four-letter alphabet of A, G, T, and C to encode the 0s and 1s of the digitized file. Their particular encoding scheme was relatively inefficient, however, and could store only 1.28 petabytes per gram of DNA. Other approaches have done better. But none has been able to store more than half of what researchers think DNA can actually handle, about 1.8 bits of data per nucleotide of DNA. (The number isnt 2 bits because of rare, but inevitable, DNA writing and reading errors.)
Erlich thought he could get closer to that limit. So he and Dina Zielinski, an associate scientist at the New York Genome Center, looked at the algorithms that were being used to encode and decode the data. They started with six files, including a full computer operating system, a computer virus, an 1895 French film called Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat, and a 1948 study by information theorist Claude Shannon. They first converted the files into binary strings of 1s and 0s, compressed them into one master file, and then split the data into short strings of binary code. They devised an algorithm called a DNA fountain, which randomly packaged the strings into so-called droplets, to which they added extra tags to help reassemble them in the proper order later. In all, the researchers generated a digital list of 72,000 DNA strands, each 200 bases long.
They sent these as text files to Twist Bioscience, a San Francisco, Californiabased startup, which then synthesized the DNA strands. Two weeks later, Erlich and Zielinski received in the mail a vial with a speck of DNA encoding their files. To decode them, the pair used modern DNA sequencing technology. The sequences were fed into a computer, which translated the genetic code back into binary and used the tags to reassemble the six original files. The approach worked so well that the new files contained no errors, they report today in Science. They were also able to make a virtually unlimited number of error-free copies of their files through polymerase chain reaction, a standard DNA copying technique. Whats more, Erlich says, they were able to encode 1.6 bits of data per nucleotide, 60% better than any group had done before and 85% the theoretical limit.
The new approach isnt ready for large-scale use yet. It cost $7000 to synthesize the 2 megabytes of data in the files, and another $2000 to read it. The cost is likely to come down over time, but it still has a long ways to go, Erlich says.
SOURCE Science magazine
The first full-size model of Russias future long-range bomber PAK DA, being developed for the Aerospace Force, has been created by the Tupolev company, a source in Russias defense-industrial complex told TASS.
Several scale mock-ups of the PAK DA bomber have been made of composite materials. Also, there is a full-size mock-up made of wood. All models are based on the flying wing concept, the source said.
The airframe will be made of radar-absorbent material. All weapons will be placed inside the fuselage.
Also, PAK DA is to be equipped with the latest radioelectronic warfare equipment of domestic manufacture, unparalleled in terms of effectiveness, the source said.
Another source in the Russian defense industry said the first test sample of a future bomber will perform its first flight by 2025. The plane will have a subsonic speed.
The new fifth generation PAK DA bomber will be able to carry a 30-ton weapons payload including different variants of air-to-surface and air-to-air missiles as well as conventional and smart-guided bombs. Among other things, it will be capable of carrying the KH-32 cruise missile, Russias latest anti-ship missile currently under development and specifically designed to attack U.S. carrier strike groups.
Russia is also making about fifty of an updated Tu-160 bomber, the Tu-160M2 long-range supersonic strategic bomber.
The first prototype of the Tu-160M2 bomber might already be unveiled as early as 2018. Test flights are slated to be carried out in 2019 or 2020 with the first bombers to be handed over to the Russian Air Force by 2023-2025. Once operational, the new fifth generation aircraft will replace more obsolete Russian bomber models including the Tu-160, Tu-95MS, and Tu-22M3. Projected per unit costs are reportedly around $160 million.
The Tu-160M2will have limited stealth. It will presumably be armed with long-range standoff cruise missiles such as the Kh-101/Kh-102 (nuclear variant) air-launched cruise missile with an estimated range of 2,700 to 5,000 kilometers. The Tu-160M2 will likely carry the missiles internally on a rotary launcher.
The recent evolution of the U.S. labor force participation ratethat is, the percentage of the population employed or looking for workhas been a controversial topic in macroeconomic discussions and policy debates. After peaking in early 2000, the rate has trended downward, with the bulk of the drop occurring after 2008. The controversy focuses on whether the trend is the result of weak economic conditions or long-run structural forces.
The Great Recession was a global phenomenon felt far beyond the U.S. economy. In this analysis, St Louis Fed reserve analysts compare the evolution of labor force participation in seven developed countries since the mid-1970s with that of the United States to shed light on what is and is not unique to the U.S. economy. The seven countries are Canada, the United Kingdom, Spain, Sweden, Japan, France, and Germany. International comparisons are not always straightforward because labor market variables and statistical methods vary across countries. They use adjusted Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) data to facilitate comparison across countries. In our analysis, they focus on the population 16 to 64 years of age for Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States and 15 to 64 years of age for the other countries.
In the USA the rate increased then peaked in the late 1990s, and has fallen substantially since. With the exception of Sweden, the other countries rates have been steadily increasing. These trends are the result of sometimes opposing forces that reflect changes across countries in social preferences for work and the pursuit of higher education.
Participation by Age
With the exception of Japan and Canada, the labor force participation rates for young men and women have been declining in the past few decades. As discussed in the literature, one main reason for the swift decline is that young people across countries are delaying entry into the labor market to pursue higher education. In fact, OECD data show that the education enrollment rate for young people across the countries increased an average 6.3 percent from 1995 to 2012. In the United States, the bulk of the drop in labor force participation of the young is motivated by education; however, there has also been a mild increase in the number of young people not in the labor force and not pursuing an education or training. For the latter group, the most likely reason is decreasing demand for unskilled labor.
The trends prime-working-age populationthose 25 to 54 years of age differ for women and men. With the exception of Sweden, the rates for women have rapidly increased and the dispersion of rates across countries has decreased. One plausible explanation for this finding is that the labor force participation of woman started increasing at different times across countries and countries with initially low participation rates have since caught up. More recently, though, in the United States and Sweden, the rates have remained fairly constant or even decreased somewhat. Until the mid-1990s, the United States had one of the highest labor force participation rates for woman in this age group; it now has one of the lowest.
In contrast, the labor force participation rates for prime-working-age men have been falling in all of the countries. For the United States, the rate fell particularly rapidlyalmost 6 percentage points from 1975 to 2013and has been among the lowest over that time. The rate is now 2.25 percentage points below that for Canada, the next-lowest rate. Given that prime-working-age men are the largest group in the labor force, this decline contributes substantially to the drop in the overall rate. The literature has signaled the process of job polarization as likely responsible for the declining labor force participation rates in many countries around the world. In addition, increased participation in social programs (e.g., disability insurance and food stamps), to which this group is particularly sensitive, may have contributed to the larger decline observed in the United States
Labor force participation rate trends for the population close to retirement age those 55 to 64 years of age vary over time and are common across most of the countries. In almost all of the countries, the rates for men display a U-shaped pattern, decreasing until the mid-1990s but then trending upward. The rates for women, on the other hand, have been increasing throughout. Much of the increase is explained by labor force participation at earlier ages and that once in the labor force, workers tend to remain in it.
Despite the similar long-run trends across countries in the labor force participation rates for the young, prime-working-age, and pre-retirement-age populations, the United States is the only country in the sample experiencing a decline in the aggregate rate in recent years. This finding is explained mostly by a larger-than-average drop in the labor force participation rate for prime-working-age men, a decrease in the rate for prime-working-age women, and a lower-than-average increase in the rate for those near retirement age. In addition, we also find that the share of people in the U.S. prime-working-age population has fallen somewhat, which also contributes to the drop in the overall labor force participation rate
Less Educated Men out of the US work force
Derek Thompson is a senior editor at The Atlantic, where he writes about economics, labor markets, and the media. He is the author of the book Hit Makers. He has written and analysis of the why about ten million prime age american men are not working.
The U.S.s labor participation rate for this group of men is lower than every country in the OECD except for Israel (an outlier, because of the high number of non-working Orthodox Jewish men) and Italy (an economic omnishambles). Today, one in six prime-age men in America are either unemployed or out of the workforce altogetherabout 10 million men.
So, this is the 10-million-man question: Where did all these guys go?
According to a report from White House economists released last week, non-working prime-age men skew young, are less likely to be parents, are disproportionately black and less educated, and are concentrated in the South.
A 2010 analysis by Pew Charitable Trusts found that incarceration reduced the average work time of a typical 45-year-old man by 19 percent. Another study estimated that people who go to prison are 30 percent less likely to subsequently find a job than a non-incarcerated person of their age.
Even if one makes the most aggressive assumptions about the cost of incarceration to unemployment, Americas prison and ex-prison population only explains a fraction of the disappearing male workforce.
Several variables are eating away at prime-age male participation rates. Men who leave prison during a time of historic incarceration have had a hard time finding steady work; some men have turned to disability payments to disengage from a workforce that offered poor pay; some adults have returned to school; and a few (perhaps very few) fathers are staying home while their spouses work.
But behind all of these trends, there is a larger story: the decline of sectors dominated by male workers. In 1954, the highwater mark for male participation, the manufacturing and construction sectors accounted for nearly 40 percent of all jobs. Now, after the long decline of manufacturing and the end of the housing bubble, they account for just 13 percent. These are jobs that men without a college degree can count on, and theyre much rarer than they used to be.
Millions of able-bodied men have dropped out of the labor force, mostly because they have stopped looking for work. Many of them badly need to leave their neighborhoods in Appalachia, the Rust Belt, and the Deep South, where the rate of non-working men often hovers around 40 percent. Meanwhile, the U.S. needs more affordable housing construction, particularly in its richest and most populous metro areas.
Here is Derek Thomsons bolder plan: A state-and-federally funded voucher program that moves men from economically stricken areas toward metros in need of construction workers.
This would need all levels of government. Metropolitan areas might have to rezone neighborhoods to provide for more low-income housing, and the GOP Congress would have to agree to what is essentially a multi-billion dollar stimulus package, which it has repeatedly said it will never do.
Trump team has talked about labor participation and big construction boosting policies
Beneath the sunny 4.6 percent jobless rate is the troubling shadow cast by the millions of men ages 25 to 54 who have dropped out of the workforce. For this group, labor force participation has sunk to 88.5 percent from a 1954 peak of 97.9 percent.
Among the root causes:
Automation. Factory robots and computer software have eliminated the need for many workers, wiping out an array of jobs that once provided a middle class lifestyle.
Global competition. U.S. workers have been competing for jobs with cheaper foreign workers, a trend thats led to some offshoring of jobs and curbed pay in some industries.
Criminal records. Stricter criminal laws have left over 20 million Americans with felony convictions and prison records a fourfold increase from 30 years earlier. That background has made it hard for them to get hired.
Prescription drug use. Nearly half of jobless men who are no longer looking for work are on pain medication, research has found.
Trump appears to endorse a straightforward fix: Bump up economic growth, and workers will land good jobs at decent wages.
Trump in his address to congress did talk about fixing the drug problem. He talked about expanding treatment for those who are addicted. Trump is talking about getting a trillion spent on construction and infrastructure with private-public partnerships.
SOURCES- St Louis Fed Reserve, The Atlantic, AP
A team of engineers led by 94-year-old John Goodenough, professor in the Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin and co-inventor of the lithium-ion battery, has developed the first all-solid-state battery cells that could lead to safer, faster-charging, longer-lasting rechargeable batteries for handheld mobile devices, electric cars and stationary energy storage.
Goodenoughs latest breakthrough, completed with Cockrell School senior research fellow Maria Helena Braga, is a low-cost all-solid-state battery that is noncombustible and has a long cycle life (battery life) with a high volumetric energy density and fast rates of charge and discharge. The engineers describe their new technology in a recent paper published in the journal Energy & Environmental Science.
Cost, safety, energy density, rates of charge and discharge and cycle life are critical for battery-driven cars to be more widely adopted. We believe our discovery solves many of the problems that are inherent in todays batteries, Goodenough said.
Energy and Environmental Science Alternative strategy for a safe rechargeable battery
The researchers demonstrated that their new battery cells have at least three times as much energy density as todays lithium-ion batteries. A battery cells energy density gives an electric vehicle its driving range, so a higher energy density means that a car can drive more miles between charges. The UT Austin battery formulation also allows for a greater number of charging and discharging cycles, which equates to longer-lasting batteries, as well as a faster rate of recharge (minutes rather than hours).
Todays lithium-ion batteries use liquid electrolytes to transport the lithium ions between the anode (the negative side of the battery) and the cathode (the positive side of the battery). If a battery cell is charged too quickly, it can cause dendrites or metal whiskers to form and cross through the liquid electrolytes, causing a short circuit that can lead to explosions and fires. Instead of liquid electrolytes, the researchers rely on glass electrolytes that enable the use of an alkali-metal anode without the formation of dendrites.
The use of an alkali-metal anode (lithium, sodium or potassium) which isnt possible with conventional batteries increases the energy density of a cathode and delivers a long cycle life. In experiments, the researchers cells have demonstrated more than 1,200 cycles with low cell resistance.
Additionally, because the solid-glass electrolytes can operate, or have high conductivity, at -20 degrees Celsius, this type of battery in a car could perform well in subzero degree weather. This is the first all-solid-state battery cell that can operate under 60 degree Celsius.
Braga began developing solid-glass electrolytes with colleagues while she was at the University of Porto in Portugal. About two years ago, she began collaborating with Goodenough and researcher Andrew J. Murchison at UT Austin. Braga said that Goodenough brought an understanding of the composition and properties of the solid-glass electrolytes that resulted in a new version of the electrolytes that is now patented through the UT Austin Office of Technology Commercialization.
The engineers glass electrolytes allow them to plate and strip alkali metals on both the cathode and the anode side without dendrites, which simplifies battery cell fabrication.
Another advantage is that the battery cells can be made from earth-friendly materials.
The glass electrolytes allow for the substitution of low-cost sodium for lithium. Sodium is extracted from seawater that is widely available, Braga said.
Goodenough and Braga are continuing to advance their battery-related research and are working on several patents. In the short term, they hope to work with battery makers to develop and test their new materials in electric vehicles and energy storage devices.
Abstract
The advent of a Li+ or Na+ glass electrolyte with a cation conductivity i over 102 S cm1 at 25 C and a motional enthalpy Hm = 0.06 eV that is wet by a metallic lithium or sodium anode is used to develop a new strategy for an all-solid-state, rechargeable, metal-plating battery. During discharge, a cell plates the metal of an anode of high-energy Fermi level such as lithium or sodium onto a cathode current collector with a low-energy Fermi level; the voltage of the cell may be determined by a cathode redox center having an energy between the Fermi levels of the anode and that of the cathode current collector. This strategy is demonstrated with a solid electrolyte that not only is wet by the metallic anode, but also has a dielectric constant capable of creating a large electric-double-layer capacitance at the two electrode/electrolyte interfaces. The result is a safe, low-cost, lithium or sodium rechargeable battery of high energy density and long cycle life.
SOURCES- Energy and Environmental Science, University of Texas
Russia has announced the start of commercial operation of its first VVER-1200 reactor, unit 1 of the Novovoronezh II nuclear power plant.
Also known as Novovoronezh 6, the unit was connected to the network in early August last year, but Rosatom said this week that it had officially started commercial operation on 27 February. This followed approval to include power generated by the unit in the countrys wholesale electricity market, the state nuclear corporation said.
Novovoronezh 6 is a VVER 1200/392M pressurised water reactor unit with a design net capacity of 1114 MWe. It is the first of two such units at Novovoronezh II the lead project for the deployment of the AES-2006 design incorporating a Gidropress-designed PWR, an evolutionary development from the VVER-1000. Construction of Novovoronezh II units 1 and 2 or Novovoronezh units 6 and 7 began in June 2008 and July 2009, respectively. The original Novovoronezh site nearby already hosts three operating reactors and two that are being decommissioned.
By the time of entering commercial operation, the unit had produced 1.691 TWh of power.
Compared to conventional VVER-1000 AES-2006 units, the first Novovoronezh II reactor has a number of advantages, which significantly increases its economic performance and safety, Rosatom said. In this way, the reactor features a 20% increase in electrical capacity of 1200 MWe. In addition, the life of the main equipment the reactor pressure vessel and the steam generators has doubled, from 30 to 60 years. The high-level of automation and the introduction of new technological solutions, means the number of personnel involved in the reactors operation has decreased, compared with a VVER-1000 unit, by 25-30%.
The unit fully complies with the International Atomic Energy Agencys post-Fukushima requirements, Rosatom said. The main feature of the technology is the use of additional passive safety systems that do not require the intervention of nuclear power plant personnel. The design includes passive heat removal from the reactor, hydrogen recombiners and a core melt trap, or core catcher.
The Russian abbreviation VVER stands for water-water energy reactor (i.e. water-cooled water-moderated energy reactor). The design is a type of pressurised water reactor (PWR). The main distinguishing features of the VVE compared to other PWRs are:
Horizontal steam generators
Hexagonal fuel assemblies
No bottom penetrations in the pressure vessel
High-capacity pressurisers providing a large reactor coolant inventory
Future versions
A number of designs for future versions of the VVER have been made:
MIR-1200 (Modernised International Reactor) designed in conjunction with Czech company SKODA JS to satisfy European requirements
VVER-1500 VVER-1000 with dimensions increased to produce 1500 MWe gross power output, but design shelved in favor of the evolutionary VVER-1200
VVER-TOI is aimed at development of typical optimized informative-advanced project of a new generation III+ Power Unit based on VVER technology, which meets a number of target-oriented parameters using modern information and management technologies.
VVER-1700 Supercritical water reactor version.
VVER-600 two cooling circuit version of the VVER-1200 designed for smaller markets, authorised to be built by 2030 at the Kola Nuclear Power Plant.
In 2014, Russian researchers looked at refining the previously developed concept of the 1700 MW(e) VVER-SKD reactor. They recommended a plan for top-priority supercritical reactor research, formulation of a technical mission and proceeding to the design of an experimental 30 MW reactor.
Young Nigerian Beauty Queen and Miss Nigeria International, Miss Mercy Atang made Africa proud when she emerged Ms International World Classic first runner among over 40 in a keenly contested pageant show. The Tansian University Umunya Anambra Undergraduate who reigned as Face Of Democracy Southern Nigeria in 2014 dazzled on the world stage as she was flying the Nigerian Flag with a head held high.The very colourful and well attended glamorous fashion celebrated beauty pageant which attracted the high and mighty in the region was held at Maimi Florida, United States of America. The soft spoken hardworking young lady will reign with pride as the crowned Ms International World Classic 2017/2018
"Students are not animals, even animals should not feed like this,I will not tolerate such inhumane treatment to students especially"he said
Niger state governor, Abu Sani Bello, has ordered the immediate sack of all food masters in all government owned boarding schools in the state. Bello reportedly gave the order when he paid an unscheduled visit to Government Girls Secondary School Tungan Magajiya yesterday.
Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has said even though the Muhammadu Buhari administration met a bad e...
Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has said even though the Muhammadu Buhari administration met a bad economy,he has made matters worse.Soludo noted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) government promised to restructure the country but has regretfully jettisoned the idea.Politicians are always full of propaganda and falsehood but Nigeria will not be rescued by looking at government alone, only citizens united will come to the rescue, he said.The ex-CBN governor said only Nigerians can save the country from the massive compression that the economy is in.Until citizens hold them to jugular and ask them to deliver on their promise, Nigeria will continue to drift without united citizens action, he said.Soludo said everybody blames the leadership for every wrong while the citizens overlook their obligation to remedy bad situations.He added that citizens can save the country through a new Nigeria.The ex-CBN governor spoke in Enugu yesterday at the African Heritage Institution Policy debate, the Big Ideas podium.Other speakers include former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke, member, Presidential Economic Advisory Board, Prof. Akpan Ekpo and former presidential Chief Economic Adviser and Director of Institute for Development Studies in the University of Nigeria, Prof. Osita Ogbu.Soludo said: Nigeria is a fragile state with failing economy and everybody wants leaders to do this or that but what do we do ourselves?By 2005, indices indicated Nigeria was in 54th position and we said we should do better but today we are 13th alongside countries like Afghanistan.This is serious and it wont be a tea party to get out of it. Nigeria is in recession in Naira terms but in massive compression in terms of US dollar.Recession is a small thing and it would be a miracle if in the next eight years, this government can return dollar to the rate it met it.The economist stated that it was a big luxury for people to just mind their own businesses in a falling economy.We will get the leadership that we work for, that we demand for.If only the politicians can implement 20 per cent of their manifesto, what they promised in their campaigns, the country will change.We must all resolve to get our voices heard. Peaceful agitation must be tolerated because they call for our attention for perfection upon which we move Nigeria forward.
National chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief John Oyegun, has called on Governors under the partys umbrella to rescue i...
National chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief John Oyegun, has called on Governors under the partys umbrella to rescue it from bankruptcy as its on the verge of been handicap financially.Oyegun lamented the poor financial status of the party.In a statement released after the partys NWC closed-door meeting with its serving Governors yesterday in Abuja, National Chairman reviewed the state of the party, x-raying the challenges facing APC in relations to funding and financing.He said, It was agreed that the party is not effectively funded as it should be. A new funding mechanism was, therefore, devised based on a planned continuous membership registration exercise across the country. The meeting agreed that this is the only sustainable way to fund the party.The meeting also discussed the situations in some of the state chapters of the Party, and it was agreed that an effective conflict resolution mechanism will be put in place to stem the tide of internal dissension and resolve existing issues.As we near the midterm, the meeting also resolved to launch a project to showcase the accomplishments of APC governors in all the 24 states controlled by the Party.The upcoming non-elective convention was also discussed and it was agreed that the convention will take place on April 29th.The meeting acknowledged that the President, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari had been away longer than was originally envisaged. The meeting, however, commended the President for following the rule of law by allowing the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo to assume proper leadership and by so doing saved the country the kind of trauma that was experienced in the past.The meeting commended the Acting President, the leadership of the National Assembly, and all the APC governors for standing strong and ensuring that government continues to run smoothly, while praying to the Almighty God to bring the President back safe and sound.
Real Madrid forward, Gareth Bale, has been handed a two-match ban by La Ligas Competition Committee after he was red carded for pushing Las Palmas playmaker, Jon Viera in Wednesdays 3-3 draw.Referee David Fernandez Borbalan handed him a second yellow card early in the second half, with the score at 1-1, after he kicked Viera before pushing him to the ground.After his dismissal, Las Palmas then went 3-1 ahead, only for Madrids 10 men to draw level, thanks to Cristiano Ronaldos penalty and header.The Wales international later apologised for the incident .However, Real Madrid have announced that they will appeal the sanction. Bale is set to miss La Liga matches against Eibar and Real Betis.The Wednesdays draw saw Real Madrid lose their spot at the top of the league log with fierce rivals Barcelona taking a one-point lead.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has recovered 50 Certificates of Occupancy bearing the name of a former National Security Adv...
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has recovered 50 Certificates of Occupancy bearing the name of a former National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Abdullahi Mukhtar (retd.), and his wife, Binta.It was learnt that the documents were recovered from one Akka Danagundi, a brother-in-law to the ex-NSA.According to the EFCC, the jewellery were found in a fireproof safe hidden in a house belonging to Danagundi at 375 Gwangwazo Quarters in Kano, Kano State.The commission stated that the discovery was sequel to an intelligence report alleging that huge sums of money, including foreign currencies, were hidden on the premises.The EFCC said, During the operation, Aiko Fireproof safe and seven suspects, including the house owner, Danagundi, were arrested and brought to the EFCCs Kano Zonal Office, where their statements were taken.On arriving at the commissions Kano Zonal Office, the safe was opened and jewellery, such as necklaces and wristwatches, including 50 Certificates of Occupancy for properties located in Kano, Kaduna and Abuja were found.The jewellery found include 55 wristwatches, including three gold watches. Also, 37 gold jewellery, weighing 1,907.9g and another 15 pieces of fashion jewellery were found.It was learnt that all the suspects arrested during the operation were released on administrative bail with the exception of Danagundi, who is still in custody, assisting the investigation.
A former Senior Special Executive Assistant to ex-Governor Rashidi Ladoja of Oyo State, Mr. Adewale Atanda, narrated on Thursday how the...
A former Senior Special Executive Assistant to ex-Governor Rashidi Ladoja of Oyo State, Mr. Adewale Atanda, narrated on Thursday how the ex-governor purchased 22 cars for lawmakers in the state to avoid being impeached in 2005.Atanda said out of the 22 cars that the governor purchased it was only 14 that he, however, gave out because that was the number of lawmakers whose loyalty he was eventually able to secure out of the 22 he required to stop his impeachment.Atanda explained that the Oyo State House of Assembly had 32 lawmakers and for Ladoja to have stopped his impeachment he needed the votes of 22 lawmakers, which was why he bought 22 cars.The rest of the cars, he said, were shared among Ladojas family members.Atanda appeared on Thursday as a prosecution witness before Justice Mohamed Idris of the Federal High Court in Lagos, where his former principal, Ladoja, is answering charges of an alleged N4.7bn fraud.Ladoja is standing trial alongside, Waheed Akanbi, who served Oyo State under his administration as the Commissioner for Finance.The ex-governor and the ex-commissioner were last December arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on eight counts before Justice Idris.They had pleaded not guilty to the charges pressed against them and in a bid to prove its case, the EFCC on Thursday brought Atanda in as its second witness.Led in evidence by the EFCC prosecutor, Mr. Oluwafemi Olabisi, Atanda, who claimed to have met Ladoja back in 2000 when he (Atanda) was vying for a senatorial seat on the platform of the same political party that Ladoja was then running for Oyo State governor, gave a detailed narration of how the administration of Ladoja ran into trouble after he had become a governor.Well, I dont know exactly how it started but it appeared as if there was a rift between members of the Oyo State House of Assembly on one hand, some political actors in the state, like Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu (late) and Senator Ladoja, and some other external influences from Abuja at the material time. Very many attempts were made to remove Senator Ladoja from office; various petitions were written and at the end of the day, an impeachment process was set in motion.Oyo State has about 32 members of the House of Assembly and to successfully impeach the governor, it would require two-thirds majority support of the members of the House of Assembly. That will be about 22 members.In order to secure the loyalty of these 22 members of the House certain promises were made by different political actors. One of such was that loyal members would be given vehicles.In the course of all these, I had discussion with Senator Ladoja and explained to him that it was important that these promises be kept. At the material time, it was rather impossible to buy these vehicles because they were not included in the budget for the year, so, we started looking for alternative ways to accommodate the request, Atanda said.Atanda said he eventually obtained a loan of N80m from Wema Bank with his personal assets to assist Ladoja, who was his political associate.The vehicles were bought and collected from the various dealers by the drivers of the Oyo State Government and delivered to the Government House in Ibadan. In spite of this, I think, by December 2005, the governor was impeached from office.He said after he was impeached, Ladoja and his allies, including the 14 lawmakers loyal to him fled and regrouped in Lagos, where Ladoja continued to take responsibility for the welfare of the lawmakers, who demanded to be paid a monthly income of N1m each after their salaries and allowances had been stopped.He added that Ladoja also assembled a team of lawyers, who demanded a fee of N370m to challenge the impeachment up to the Supreme Court.Justice Idris has adjourned till March 27, 2017 for Atanda to continue his testimony.
A former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Olisa Metuh has given clarifications as to why he wants ex-Nat...
A former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Olisa Metuh has given clarifications as to why he wants ex-National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki(rtd) to appear as a witness in his ongoing trial.Metuh is currently facing trial before the Justice Abang Okon-led Federal High Court sitting in Abuja for fraud related charges.The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is prosecuting Metuh, alongside his firm, Destra Investment Limited on a seven count charge for allegedly receiving the sum of N400 million in the build up to the 2015 general election from the office of the NSA without executing any contract.Following his dissatisfaction with his trial, the ex-PDP spokesperson recently asked the court to allow Dasuki testify in his trial.However, Justice Abang dismissed Metuhs prayer .Addressing reporters, a member of Metuhs legal team, Barrister Ben-Chuks Nwosu explained that the call for Dasuki as witness was for clarifications on certain public misconception to be made regarding Metuhs involvement in the arms deal.According to Nwosu, By the tenor of the charge, our client has not been charged with stealing or corrupt enrichment knowingly but for receiving payment, which came from an alleged unlawful activity of Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd).It is the case of the defence from the onset that they need the evidence of Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) to establish their innocence.
The Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha called for adoption of traditional method of oath taking in governance to curb corruption ...
The Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha called for adoption of traditional method of oath taking in governance to curb corruption in the country.Delivering his lecture titled: Promoting Culture, Developing the Economy: A Nigerian Perspective, Governor Rochas Okorocha explained that it would be difficult for public office holders to syphon public money or abuse their office if they were swore in with their deity, like Ofo in Igbo or Ogun in Yoruba.He said people no longer fear Bible and Quran that are currently being used, because they knew that God is merciful, and did not kill instantly.Our government must begin to adopt our culture in government, if we must succeed. Even in the fight against corruption our (traditional) practices of oath taking should be applied, he called.Okorocha also called for the countrys education system to be structured inline with our culture. The Governor maintained that instead of celebrating other peoples language and culture, Nigeria should celebrate her major languages to promote its cultural values.He said conditions given by regulators in the education system with particular reference to the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, were major factors for staying at home by some intelligent students. JAMB condition that you must have credit in Mathematics and English Language before getting admission to Nigerian Universities.Who told them? Why are they suffering our children? Why not credit in Igbo or Yoruba or Hausa Language or any Nigerian languages? Most of our intelligent children cannot go to school because of the JAMB condition and some of them end up doing nothing. We must change our orientation and it must start from that. Our education system should be inline with our culture. I believe there is still hope, but we must go back to our culture.God has endowed us with brain but the problem is that we left our culture, which is who we are and we are chasing shadow, he said.
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo is currently in Kaduna state.
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo is currently in Kaduna state.Reports have it that Osinbajo, in company of the ministers of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, as well as Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, landed at the Kaduna International Airport 12:21pm.After being received by Kaduna Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, Osinbajo proceeded to inspect Kaduna Airport. He will also be inspecting the Abuja -Rigasa Railway terminal link road to the airport constructed by the state government within one months.
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo yesterday urged Nigerians to stop celebrating treasury looters.
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo yesterday urged Nigerians to stop celebrating treasury looters.To him, it is unfortunate that someone accused of corruption is celebrated in his hometown because people believe he has taken his share of the national cake.Today someone who is corrupt is celebrated. There is a problem that we must resolve, and if we dont resolve it, it will hurt us very, very badly, just as it is hurting us already, he said.Osinbajo said the best way to win the war against corruption is to study the models used elsewhere and adopt them.We can only resist corruption when we ensure that systems put in place are working, he said.The Acting President spoke while opening a two-day National Dialogue on Corruption, organised by the Office of the Vice President in collaboration with the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC).Osinbajo said corruption fighting back was not peculiar to Nigeria, adding that the country cannot survive with the type of corruption we have.According to him, corruption thrives where it is allowed to thrive.When the very best people say that there is no consequence of bad actions, they suddenly turn bad, he said.The Acting President recalled that when he initiated reforms in the Lagos judiciary as Attorney-General in 1999 aimed at curbing corruption, he was accused of ethnicity and witchhunt, but was not deterred.Among the problems he addressed, he said, was the mode of appointment of judges that was based on man-know-man, as well as welfare, as judges were then paid N67,000, which could not meet their basic needs.Osinbajo said the Bola Tinubu administration gave every judge a house for life, and increased their remuneration considerably, which became a reference point for other states and the appellate courts.He said where there were issues of corruption against judges, petitions were sent directly to the National Judicial Council (NJC) and followed up.The reforms, he said, led to the sack of 22 corrupt magistrates and three judges within one year. A 2006 survey showed zero percent corruption in the judiciary, as against 89 per cent in 2006.It was because a system was in place and impunity was not allowed. It is important that we put in place models that will work.We must work together the legislature, the judiciary and the executive to put a model that must work. We must ensure that systems that are put in place are fair and comply with the rule of law, he said.Osinbajo added that the campaign against corruption must connect it to the problems of their times ground so that people will realise the debilitating consequences of graft.He called for international cooperation in the fight against corruption, such as making it easier to recover stolen assets, the process of which he said had been so difficult.Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Walter Onnoghen, making his first public appearance a day after his confirmation by the Senate, said the judiciary gets a lot of stick for corruption, sometimes unfairly.The judiciary finds itself being battered left, right and centre. So, what should the CJN say on an occasion like this, which will not appear as a defence of his institution? he said.The CJN admitted that a few bad eggs exist within the judiciary, but restated his commitment to collaborate with other arms of government to fight the scourge.Justice Onnoghen said corruption thrived only in a culture of impunity where people believe in themselves alone.He said the only way there can be justice is when everyone respects the constitution and the rule of law.Justice Onnoghen appeared to be criticize the sting operation by the Department of State Services (DSS) in which the homes of judges were raided and some arrested.He warned that such acts were capable of destroying the judiciary, adding that sanctioning judicial officers should be done through the right channels.His words: The judiciary holds these principles dear, because that is the only way we can ensure an orderly society, and ensure the maintenance of democracy and justice for all.So, if you are to fight corruption, then you should fight the culture of impunity which is attitudinal, by adhering strictly to the constitutional provisions and the rule of law.If we allow the rule of law to reign, then there will be a dramatic reduction in corruption and injustice. That is how I see it.The judiciary is painted with a brush like an institution that epitomises corruption; that is not fair; that is not correct. We have gentlemen on the bench, and by its nature, judicial officers can only be seen and not be heard.So, when youre dealing with judicial corruption, you ought to do it in accordance with the rule of law and channel whatever you have through the appropriate channel so that you dont destroy that institution, because destroying it will not do us any good. Yes, we can do more.On delays of cases, Justice Onnoghen said the judiciary alone was not to blame.He said when prosecutors do not do their jobs well, a judge will not be expected to convict a suspect willy-nilly.
Nigeria's Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has directed international oil firms operating in the Niger-Delta region to relocate t...
Nigeria's Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has directed international oil firms operating in the Niger-Delta region to relocate their headquarters to the states where they operate in order to reduce tension in the host communities.I think it is the right thing to do," he said at a town hall meeting in Uyo where he gave the directive.He also urged Minister of State, Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu to begin the process of engaging the International Oil Companies on the way forward to actualize the directive.He also revealed that the Ministry of Petroleum is also working with major oil companies on several initiatives including; working on illegal refineries to establish modular refineries to achieve the desired result.
Parents are bitter about how their children are being treated at Queens College, Yaba, Lagos Mainland, where two pupils have died from ...
Parents are bitter about how their children are being treated at Queens College, Yaba, Lagos Mainland, where two pupils have died from drinking unclean water.Vivian Osuinyi died of diarrhea on February 14; Itula Bithna died of typhoid on February 22.The girls, who were junior secondary pupils, died at home after falling ill in schoolThe Parents Teachers Association (PTA) Chairman, Mr John Ofordike, said he was called to the school three months ago to attend to a medical issue.As far as I am concerned I cannot tell you the cause of their death, but, was told that it is typhoid fever and it was caused by bad water. Three months ago, there was an incident in the college. Students were vomiting and purging and I was called upon. When I got there I saw children at the sick bay receiving treatments and while some were still waiting to be treated. We tried to examine the issue but didnt know where the fault was. So in the end, I donated 3,000 bags of pure water which lasted for five days and during that period the number of children vomiting and purging reducedBefore they vacated, I advised parents to take their children for medical check-up. So many did and I got so many complaints of fever, high level of typhoid in their system. It is disheartening that four months into my election as the chairman, there have been medical issues and even deaths, he said.Ofordike noted that the pupils were not benefiting from the Queens Delight table water which is produced in the school by a private firm.The firm started operation about two years ago, with an agreement to provide potable water for domestic use in the school. However, Ofordike said the water was being sold to outsiders without consideration for the pupils.Henceforth, he said, the firm would provide the water for use in the dormitories, kitchen, clinic and dining areas.A parent, who simply called himself Mr Zubby, blamed the pupils death on negligence.He said: It is a result of negligence. That is why we are here. Nobody is happy. I have two children here and I would not want anything to go wrong with them. After their inter-house sports, I took my daughters home. That night one of them fell really sick. When we conducted tests on them, they were both positive with high level of typhoid. So we started advising parents to do same, so many results from the parents were positive too. In fact one of us said her daughters was critical.I think there should be transparency; you do not expect any parent to start raising issue where there is none. Most times these children come back home and complain of one thing or the other and where the management is not able to say let us sit down and proffer solution it becomes a big issue.Another parent, Mr Timothy Babafemi, said: We are not happy at all with the issue. There were rusted pipes that resulted in the contamination of the water. Though my daughter suffered from malaria as a result of bad windows, mosquitoes, but with the help of the PTA and other agencies, the deteriorated facilities in the school are being repaired.
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman Alhaji All Modu Sheriff has ruled out stepping down as an option in the search for a po...
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman Alhaji All Modu Sheriff has ruled out stepping down as an option in the search for a political solution to the partys leadership crisis.Key stakeholders in the party have been seeking political solution without being explicit on details.Sheriff was reacting to a media report indicating that former President Goodluck Jonathan had asked him and Caretaker Committee Chairman Senator Ahmed Makarfi to step down and allow the partys governors to nominate a chairman.In a statement yesterday signed on his behalf by his appointed party spokesman, Mr. Bernard Mikko, Sheriff said the issue of resignation did not come up during his meeting with the former President last week.The statement said: The general public, PDP members and the media are hereby informed that the issue of the National Chairmans resignation as the political solution has never been discussed nor was it put up for discussion with the former President and other stakeholders.The general public, PDP members nationwide and the media are hereby informed that shortly before the Court of Appeal judgement of February 17, 2017; all parties and stakeholders agreed that on the receipt of the Court of Appeal judgement, whichever way it goes, members will be prevailed upon and urged to support the judgement and orders of the Court of Appeal and rally round the successful party to conduct; as soon as possible a national unity convention for the election of officers; the modalities of which shall be worked out by stakeholders of the party.As a law-abiding citizen and advocate of the rule of law, the National Chairman, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff hereby calls on all stakeholders, including but not limited to PDP governors, national and state assembly members, Board of Trustee members, to make themselves available and give their input on how we can, as quickly as possible, conduct a national unity convention where our national officers will be elected. The National Chairman has promised and undertaken not to contest.Efforts by our correspondent to get the reaction of the Makarfi camp did not yield results. Repeated telephone calls and SMS messages to the spokesman of the Caretaker Committee, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, were left unanswered.Also yesterday, another reconciliation committee of the party, headed by Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, met with some party leaders and some PDP National Assembly members in Abuja.A statement signed by Dickson after the meeting also harped on the need to find a political solution to the crisis, describing it as the best option.The Dickson committee endorsed the resolution reached by Jonathan and the governors, without prejudice to the ongoing judicial processes.The statement said: As part of this process, it is imperative that an early convention within the second quarter of 2017 should be held in Abuja, which, therefore, should be all-inclusive and where new national officials of the party will be freely, fairly and transparently elected.In furtherance of this, the reconciliation committee shall embark on extensive consultations with all stakeholders with a view to building confidence and necessary consensus toward the unity convention.The committee, however, appeals to all party leaders and members of PDP to exercise restraint and focus on the loyalty to and the overall interest of the party.Meanwhile, Sheriff yesterday announced Dr. Ahmed Gulak, a former Political Adviser to former President Jonathan as his Chief of Staff, with the appointment taking immediate effect.
The Presidency has hit back at former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Charles Soludo after he accused President Muhammadu Buhari ...
The Presidency has hit back at former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Charles Soludo after he accused President Muhammadu Buhari of worsening the countrys economy.Acting President Yemi Osinbajos spokesman, Laolu Akande, in a statement, insisted that Buhari had ended the bleeding of the nation and was implementing reforms.Nigerians have demonstrated that they know the Buhari administration inherited a sorry state of the economy but is working diligently to fix it with positive results now emerging.What even Former CBN Governor Soludo cannot deny is the fact that the Buhari administration has ended the bleeding of the nation and is implementing reforms.The Buhari administration is spending more on infrastructure at a time when resources are lean. When we had abundant revenues what happened was profligacy and plunder.
Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), says the party acknowledges that President Muhammadu Buhari has been a...
Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), says the party acknowledges that President Muhammadu Buhari has been away from the country longer than envisaged.Abdullahi said this on Thursday at the end of a meeting of the partys national working committee (NWC) with some governors in Abuja.He commended the president for transferring power to Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo before his departure.Buhari has been on medical vacation in the UK since January 19.The APC spokesman further said the party agreed to schedule its non-elective national convention for April 29.The national working committee (NWC) of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by the national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun on Thursday met with governors elected on the platform of the APC, he said.The national chairman reviewed the state of the party, x-raying the challenges facing the APC in relations to funding and financing.It was agreed that the party is not effectively funded as it should be. A new funding mechanism was therefore devised based on a planned continuous membership registration exercise across the country. The meeting agreed that this is the only sustainable way to fund the party.The meeting also discussed the situations in some of the state chapters of the party, and it was agreed that an effective conflict resolution mechanism will be put in place to stem the tide of internal dissension and resolve existing issues.As we near the midterm, the meeting also resolved to launch a project to showcase the accomplishments of APC governors in all the 24 states controlled by the party.The upcoming non-elective convention was also discussed and it was agreed that the convention will take place on April 29.The meeting acknowledged that the president, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari has been away longer than was originally envisaged. The meeting however, commended the president for following the rule of law by allowing the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo to assume proper leadership and by so doing saved the country the kind of trauma that was experienced in the past.
The House of Representatives, on Thursday expressed worry over the high cost of fees being collected from students by the Nigerian Law S...
The House of Representatives, on Thursday expressed worry over the high cost of fees being collected from students by the Nigerian Law School.It, therefore, mandated its Committees on Justice; Tertiary Education and Services, and Finance to interface with the Director-General of Nigerian Law School and other stakeholders on the issue.The move stemmed from the adoption of a motion by Rep. Mark Gbillah (Benue-APC), who told the chamber that the increase in fees of the school over the last couple of years was alarming.The prevailing economic circumstances in the country and the insistence by some legal luminaries that the profession is elitist and the training capital intensive, calls for quick intervention by the Federal Government.It is important the Federal Government and all stockholders stop paying lip service to the problem and initiate an emergency national discourse to safeguard the future of this Nobel profession, he said.Contributing to the motion, Rep. Abubakar Adamu (Niger-APC) said that the issue had prevented the poor from going to theLaw School, adding that an average civil servant could not afford the fee.From the look of things, we are making education for the rich alone. How can a child of a poor person afford N400, 000 to attend law school, he asked?Also Rep. Nnamdi Agbo (Enugu-PDP) said that if appropriate action was not taken, the fee would keep increasing and many law graduates would not be able to attend the compulsory programme in the law school.He, therefore, called on the Federal Government to address the issue on time to enable law students staying at home go to law school.After the debate and adoption of the motion, the Speaker, Mr Yakubu Dogara, said that the situation was worrisome and supported the call for governments intervention.
Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) will soon announce his first set of appointments.
Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) will soon announce his first set of appointments.Akeredolu, who was sworn in on Friday, February 24, 2017, is expected to do so after his current trip to Abuja.On Thursday, Akeredolu attended a meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) which had in attendance members of the National Working Commitee (NWC) and Governors on the platform of the party.At the meeting presided over by APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun, Akeredolu was formally introduced to other governors.On Friday, it was learnt that the Ondo helmsman was almost done with consultations on top appointees and may make the names public next week.A source told our correspondent that the governor was taking his time to ensure round pegs in round holes for smooth running of his administration.Appointments is not a task that should be rushed. But I can say that the first set of appointments will be any moment from now; so let's wait.Many had expected that Akeredolu would have, in less than a week, announced occupants of at least three positions Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff and Chief Press Secretary.While the names are being expected, some individuals have emerged as top contenders.Prior to Akeredolus inauguration, speculations suggested he had settled for a former member of the House of Representatives from Akure, Hon Ifedayo Abegunde (Abena) for the position of SSG.Abenas name emerged after choice of the current deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi as running mate to Akeredolu.Also on the cards are Barrister Ade Oluwajana, Engr. Tunji Light Ariyomo and Niyi Adegbomire, SAN.Many among the public however expect the position of SSG to naturally go to Akure-born Ariyomo because of his acumen, leadership experience and organizational skills.For the position of Chief of Staff, there are two people from within the camp of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).They are Hon Solagbade Amodeni, former Chairman of Akoko South East Local Government and ex-Commissioner under ex-governor, Olusegun Mimiko.Also in contention is the APC Deputy State Chairman, Hon. Ade Adetimehin.Adetimehin, it was learnt, stood behind Akeredolu during the governorship primary and may be rewarded with the position.Others on the list are former banker, Timehin Adelegbe, and a retired permanent secretary, Gbenga Ale.Our correspondent gathered that if these persons do not clinch the job, they may get commissioners slots.But in the case of Adetimehin, he may be elevated to the positiom of Ondo State APC Chairman if the incumbent Isaac Kekemeke steps down.The position of the main information manager to the Governor, the Chief Press Secretary, may go to Yemi Olowolabi.He has been the head of Akeredolus media team for a long time and many expect him to assume the position.However, he may be appointed Commisoner for Information if someone else is appointed the CPS.
Officials are investigating the cause of a fire that started at the Trump International Hotel and Tower in New York.
Officials are investigating the cause of a fire that started at the Trump International Hotel and Tower in New York.The blaze started on the 47th floor of the building, which overlooks Central Park, in the early hours of Friday morning.The fire brigade was called at around 4.30am local time (9.30am GMT) and the fire was extinguished at around 5.20am (10.20am GMT), local television reported.The Fire Department of New York is investigating the cause of the blaze but have not found any indication it was "suspicious".A protester attempted to set himself on fire outside one of Mr Trump's hotels in Washington in January.I was trying to light myself on fire as an act of protest, the man said, before being taken for medical treatment. Protesting the fact that we've elected someone who is completely incapable of respecting the Constitution of the United States.The President is distancing himself from his hotel and real estate empire to avoid potential conflicts of interest that raised have raised concern among opponents.He and his daughter Ivanka have resigned all roles with the Trump Organisation, which is being run by the President's two eldest sons.But his continued refusal to disclose his tax returns, defying decades of precedent, has fuelled calls for the Senate Finance Committee to launch a formal review.(Independent)
Former Presidential spokesman, Reuben Abati, has listed a few of the achievements of ex-President, Goodluck Jonathan.
Former Presidential spokesman, Reuben Abati, has listed a few of the achievements of ex-President, Goodluck Jonathan.Abati said there was danger in peddling a single side of the story of how Nigerias recession started as championed by President Muhammadu Buharis cabinet.Abati said, There is something about the danger of a single story. If you look at the Jonathan government, at the risk of defending that administration, under that administration the GDP was the rebased and Nigeria became the largest economy in Africa.As at 2014, Nigeria had become the number one Foreign Direct Investment destination in Africa. Within the first half of 2014, this economy has gained from FDI alone about N1.15 trillion. In fact, that same year, for the first time in Africa, the World Economic Forum held in Nigeria; which was a kind of endorsement of what was been done by that administration at that time.It was also under that administration that the auto motive industry was revived. It was under that administration that the national railway was revived. It was under that administration that the agricultural sector became very robust.I am not here to come and offer a defense but the danger of the single story is that it ends up repeating a lie until you assume that people will believe it. I think that people should double check some of these things.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said yesterday that the currencys appreciation against others was the result of its market monitorin...
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said yesterday that the currencys appreciation against others was the result of its market monitoring and intervention.Its spokesman Isaac Okorafor refuted the claim that illegal sale of foreign currencies at ridiculous rates was responsible for the change in Forex policy.Okorafor, who spoke in Sokoto, also explained that the appreciation of the Naira was in no way connected to the allegations of illegal sale of foreign currencies.I want to state categorically that there is no relationship whatsoever between the allegations that dollar was being sold at 61 kobo and the current appreciation of the Naira.What led to the appreciation of the Naira was that the CBN did an intelligence on the market and realised that what was driving the demand on the Bureau De Change (BDCs) and parallel market was speculation.We reasoned that since there is a lot of pressure on the two segments from people seeking to buy foreign currencies for BTA, tuition and medicals, that if we successfully addressed that, the pressure will come down.Also, before now, the level of our reserves was not enough to make us comfortable enough to really do the kind of intervention that is required.We decided to do so now because we are a bit more comfortable with our level of reserve, he said.Okorafor said since the new Forex policy, the CBN had intervened with about 591 million dollars in the market, which had led to Naira gaining strength.Let me also state as proof that when we placed 500 million dollars in the market, only 370 million dollars was taken.That tells you that the real demand is 370 million dollars. When we placed 230 million dollars in the market, only 221 million dollars was taken.Anybody who has gone foul of the law and the security agencies have caught up with him, should go and face his or her case and stop causing confusion among participants in the market, he said.
South African companies in Nigeria may have stepped up its security apparatus over possible attack due to the ongoing unrest in the countr...
South African companies in Nigeria may have stepped up its security apparatus over possible attack due to the ongoing unrest in the country over Xenophobia attacks.A visit by our correspondent on Friday to The Palms Mall, Lekki, which houses Shoprite, and one of MTN branches, security presence at the main gate were noticed at the main entrance for walk-in customers. This may be unconnected to the recent threat by militants to send the South African companies packing from Nigeria.Recall that a week ago, MTN office was attacked by Nigerian Protesters in Abuja, the nation' capital.
I dont often click on a Google Doodle.
But after I got on my computer last Saturday, I was intrigued by the little pictures on the search engines home page.
So I clicked on it and learned about Ida Lewis, a lighthouse keeper, once called The Bravest Woman in America.
Born on Feb. 25, 1842, Ida was the oldest of four children and daughter of Capt. Hosea Lewis, the appointed keeper of the Lime Rock Light in Newport, Rhode Island.
Idas family was there only four months when her dad had a stroke and was disabled. She and her mother tended the lighthouse for years and since the only way to reach the mainland was by boat, Ida rowed her siblings to school and got supplies from town.
Various published reports credit Ida with saving as many as 25 lives, but nobody knows for sure because she kept no records.
Ida was just 12 years old when she made her first rescue in 1854, rowing out to help four men whose boat had capsized.
Her most famous rescue took place in 1869 during a snowstorm that overturned a boat with two soldiers and a 14-year-old boy. The boy was lost in the icy waters, but Ida, who had a cold, raced to the boat without a coat or shoes. Idas younger brother helped her get the two soldiers into the boat and bring them to the lighthouse.
She would become the first woman to earn a gold Congressional Medal of Honor. As her fame spread, shed earn many honors and even meet President Ulysses S. Grant.
Ida was 63 when she made her last known rescue, saving a friend who lost her balance in a boat and fell overboard.
As for her personal life, Ida married, but separated from her husband after a couple of months.
In 1911, Ida died from a stroke.
She was 69 years old.
As I read about Ida, my thoughts float to several Bible stories like the one where Jesus catches Peter, who starts to sink while walking on the water.
That was a great rescue.
But the first story that came to my mind is one in the book of Luke.
This account, found in the eighth chapter, begins after Jesus and his disciples have gotten into a boat.
They are heading across a lake when Jesus falls asleep.
The fourth chapter of the book of Mark offers even more detail.
It says Jesus has fallen asleep on a cushion in the back of the boat.
Then a great windstorm comes down on the lake. Waves are breaking into the boat, which is filling with water.
Facing danger, the disciples wake Jesus with a question.
Teacher, dont you care that we are perishing?
Jesus awakens and rebukes the wind. To waves he says: Be still!
The wind ceases and there is a great calm.
Jesus then seems to use the situation as a watery teaching moment and presents a couple of questions.
Why are you so afraid? he asks. Do you still have no faith?
The disciples are terrified.
Who is this? they ask each other. Even the wind and the waves obey him.
Jesus didnt get a gold medal that we know of for making such dramatic water rescues.
And while Idas story appeared in magazine articles and a parade was held in her honor, no such tributes were made for Jesus.
Granted, we might compare whats called Palm Sunday to a parade in Christs honor, but a week later a brutally beaten Jesus was mocked as he carried a heavy Roman cross to the place of his death.
Jesus sacrificed so much for people like you and me and rescuers like Ida.
When I think about Jesus, I also think about the lighthouse where Ida worked.
Christ is our lighthouse.
I am the light of the world, Jesus said. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. (John 8:12)
In Psalm 27:1, we also learn The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life of whom shall I be afraid?
Jesus has a way of shining his light on situations and helping us get on the right path in life.
He did that for a man named Saul of Tarsus, whod become an expert at persecuting Christians.
Saul was on a road headed to Damascus to do some evil deeds, when a bright light from heaven shown around him.
It would be a light that would help deliver Saul not from a stormy sea but from a type of spiritual darkness.
Saul would have a life-changing encounter with Jesus.
And Saul who became known as the Apostle Paul would spend the rest of his life working to share that light with others.
The Lord can help us in similar ways.
Christ can rescue us from real storms and icy oceans, but he can also pull us out of the deep waters of despair, fear and heartache. He can provide that light in the dark, discouraging times of life and bring us to places of hope.
I know, because hes helped me through what Id call some rough waters and Im learning to trust him more all the time.
Now, if Ida Lewis were still alive today, shed be 175 years old the same age Jesus ancestor Abraham was when he died.
Can you imagine what Ida might say if she saw modern-day water rescues that can include huge ships, helicopters and divers decked out in scuba gear?
I have to think she would be a little frightened of such things.
And we might be, too, if we were in her boat.
But I dont think we ever have to fear the storms of life, not when we have the best lifesaver around our Lord Jesus.
A postscript: While re-reading my column, I was struck by this thought: Ida and others like her may rescue people from stormy waters, but Christ has the power to stop the wind and waves and to bring us uncommon hope.
Perched more than 20 feet in the air atop the border fence between San Diego and Tijuana, Mexico, a Mexican lawmaker delivers a message to President Donald Trump.
"It's completely unnecessary -- and it's absurd -- to build a wall that costs $15 billion," Braulio Guerra says in Spanish as a camera rolls. "Look, in these 8 meters, more or less 8, 10 meters, how simple it is to climb."
The 2-minute video is the latest creative volley in the international drama unfolding over Trump's signature campaign pledge: to build a wall at the border and make Mexico pay for it. The Mexican government repeatedly has refused. Trump also has issued executive orders that pave the way for a dramatic increase in deportations.
Guerra, a member of Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto's ruling political party, says in the video that he visited the border not just to slam Trump's wall plan but also to talk with people being sent back to Mexico by the US Immigration and Naturalization Service.
The Mexican government, he says, must provide incentives to companies to hire people who are forced to return, as well as work with US officials "for the protection of our migrants in the United States."
"It was easy to get up the wall, but there are many dangers for our people," Guerra wrote in his tweet. "Human rights, principles and dignity are not negotiable."
The lawmaker's video, posted Thursday to Twitter, does not show Guerra climbing the barrier. Other photos show him atop the fence, which is closely flanked by a chain link fence, presumably making it easier to climb.
JFK-era politics
As he peers down at Pacific beaches on either side of the fence, Guerra harks back to what he views as a friendlier period of diplomacy.
"John F. Kennedy in his time spoke of an Alliance for Progress, in which the United States turned around to see Mexico and Latin America and cooperate with its development, with its economy, with its employment, to level the standards of quality of life, to be good neighbors and help each other," he says.
"This is to be able to improve the relationship and stop the migrant flow, and return to friendly relations that produce jobs, that translate into good economic terms and development for both countries."
US Customs and Border Protection last week gave notice that it will soon start collecting proposals from companies that want to design and build "prototype wall structures." A winning bidder is due to be announced in mid-April.
The US-Mexico border is approximately 2,000 miles long, running from San Diego to Brownsville, Texas.
Cost estimates for a wall range from $12 billion to $15 billion -- a best guess by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell -- to a $21.6 billion option now under consideration by the Department of Homeland Security.
Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly has said under questioning from lawmakers who oppose walling off the entire border that the department might start by expanding fencing in certain areas, bolstered by technology and personnel.
Trump initially said he wanted to wall off the entire border, but has since said that 1,000 miles may do.
Social media sideshow
Guerra's video caught the attention of social media users, though perhaps more for his stunt than his message.
"Ridiculous," a few called him in Spanish.
"What a shame that a 'representative' of the Mexican people does these antics," @josuemb tweeted.
CNN's Catherine Shoichet and Ray Sanchez contributed to this report.
Bring your food waste to the library for composting: Yes, really
Gov. John Bel Edwards and the Louisiana House Republicans are going to have to work on their budget and tax proposals. (Brianna Paciorka, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune)
The federal government plans to pour $125 million into the fight against a mysterious disease that has ravaged corals in Florida and much of the Caribbean, and now poses a dire threat to the treasured reefs off the Louisiana and Texas coasts.
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.
Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh said the Council Bluffs-Omaha metro area has received pretty amazing praise nationwide for its economic development.
He was referring to Thursdays announcement that Site Selection magazine, for the third time in four years, has ranked the Council Bluffs-Omaha metro area No. 1 for new and expanded corporate projects among metro areas nationwide with populations between 200,000 and 1 million.
Walsh cited the success of a regional partnership involving communities on both sides of the river as being a key for this national acclaim.
This is the third time in four years the metro area of Omaha and Council Bluffs has been recognized as No. 1 in this population group for economic development and the fourth year of a joint effort to market the entire region instead of each individual city, Walsh said. To win nationally three times out of four years speaks volumes on how well this joint effort has been.
During ceremonies in Omaha marking the announcement, David G. Brown, president and CEO of the Omaha Chamber of Commerce, has similar thoughts, saying that the key to award-winning economic development is regional collaboration.
We celebrate this latest top ranking with all of our partner counties, city leaders and the Nebraska and Iowa Departments of Economic Development, Brown said. Were all driven by the same goal the higher quality of life that comes from a steady rush of new jobs and investment.
The chamber helms the Greater Omaha Chamber Economic Development Partnership, an eight-county economic development program dedicated to creating jobs and encouraging capital investment throughout southeast Nebraska and southwest Iowa.
Among those underneath this partnership umbrella is Advance Southwest Iowa, headed by Paula Hazlewood.
Winning it again is a true testament of the partnership and our community leadership, our elected officials and how successful it has become, Hazlewood said at Thursdays Noon Rotary meeting.
Prominent economic development projects announced in Council Bluffs-Omaha in 2016 contributed to more than $612 million in new capital investment, with the $27 million expansion of the Tyson plant in Council Bluffs among the highlighted projects.
Site Selection is a national magazine that has reported on corporate real estate strategy and area economic development the last 60-plus years.
Thats pretty amazing, Walsh said of this honor at the Rotary meeting.
Many area teachers are wondering what changes will come about in their next negotiated contract with their employers.
Gov. Terry Branstad signed a bill into law Feb. 17 that stripped collective bargaining topics other than base wages from most public employees, including teachers.
Under the new law, public employers with less than 30 percent of public safety employees are now no longer obligated to negotiate topics such as hours, vacations, insurance, holidays, leaves of absence, shift differentials, overtime compensation, supplemental pay, seniority, transfer procedures, job classifications, health and safety matters and evaluation procedures.
For more than 40 years, teacher unions in Iowa were able to negotiate with their respective school districts on each topic listed above, but under the new law, a district is now only required to bargain base wages, which might leave area teachers wondering, whats next?
The Nonpareil asked eight area school districts including Council Bluffs and Lewis Central on where their negotiations currently stand with their local respective teachers associations.
Among those eight districts, four already have settlements: Council Bluffs, Underwood, Tri-Center and AHSTW. The other four Lewis Central, Treynor, Glenwood and Riverside are preparing to negotiate under the new rules passed by the Iowa Legislature.
Mark Schweer, superintendent of the Lewis Central Community School District, said his district did not settle on a new contract prior to the governor signing off on the new legislation, meaning they have to start over as do all school districts if they didnt settle prior to Feb. 17.
Schweer said the district hasnt set a date to exchange initial proposals with the schools teacher association yet, stating they were waiting for clarification from the Iowa Public Employment Relations Board, or PERB.
Were really embarking in uncharted territory, and we havent been down this path before, so Im sure some theres some uncertainty and anxiety and angst, Schweer said. Theres a lot of unknowns on both the sides of teachers and management.
Kindergarten and first-grade teacher LoriAnn Brougham, president of the Lewis Central Education Association, said the union is waiting to see how the new legislation shakes out around the state.
It is safe to say that teachers are feeling anxious about this legislation as it stands, Brougham said in an e-mail to The Nonpareil. We are anxious about the future of the profession, and the students of Iowa that we care so deeply for.
Brougham said the unions next formal meeting wont be until mid-March.
As an association, we understand that we are in budget shortfall due to a decline in enrollment, and therefore do not expect a huge rate increase, but we would hope for a fair settlement that shows our members that the board is as committed to us as we are to our students, Brougham said. We hope to continue the very positive working relationship that we have enjoyed for many years between the LCEA and the district.
When The Nonpareil contacted Jan Berry, an administrative law judge for the Iowa Public Employment Relations Board, he said he wasnt sure what information school districts were waiting to receive from the board in order for them to move forward on negotiations.
Berry suggested districts or unions that are looking for additional guidance to read the documents found on the PERB website, iowaperb.iowa.gov.
If they still need help on what to do, then call us, Berry said. Really, for school districts that are involved here, the process doesnt really change, but what they can bargain and what an arbitrator can give has gone through massive changes its a completely different world here.
Not every district, however, is having to immediately engage with that new world.
The Council Bluffs Community School District settled negotiations just hours before the new bill was signed into law on Feb. 17 approving a one-year extension to the existing two-year contract.
The Underwood Community School District Board of Education and the Underwood Education Association settled on a two-year agreement for the 2017-18 and 2018-19 school years ahead of the legislation being proposed and adopted.
The Tri-Center Community School District settled on a one-year contract prior to the new legislations passage, district Superintendent Angie Huseman said.
I think this new collective bargaining bill has a lot of intended consequences and some unintended consequences that we dont know how will play out, Huseman said. It was important just for morale and stability to try and settle before the bill became a law, so we can have a year to figure it out and how to proceed going forward.
Tri-Center Education Association President Paul Hart, who teaches instrumental music, said negotiations had gone really well.
We felt that we were able to come to a contract that benefited both the teachers and the school system, Hart said. We wanted to come to an agreement before it passed because we were on known footing. Once that passed, it opened a new world that would take some adjustment.
Hart said the negotiation process started in late January this year with a contract settled by early February avoiding the last-minute push seen in other districts.
As teachers, we have a fear of what is to come but weve been reassured, as have most schools, that theyre going to take care of their teachers and be fair of them, Hart said. Am I happy with the new legislation? No. I think its something we didnt need, but at Tri-Center were going to do the best we can with the situation.
Jesse Ulrich, superintendent of the AHSTW Community School District, said the district is in the middle of a multiyear contract this year for teachers serving Avoca, Hancock, Shelby, Tennant and Walnut.
Last year, as fate would have it, it was the first year they ever did a two-year contract and were fortunate from that standpoint because it allowed the district and our teachers association to be able to work together to find out what the implications really are, Ulrich said.
Ulrich said the district will start the negotiation process for the next contract during the 2018-19 school year.
Last thing our district would want to do is put teachers in a position where teachers dont feel appreciated or valued, Ulrich said. We want to do quite the opposite and take the positives of the law and make sure AHSTW is the place to be in southwest Iowa.
AHSTW Teachers Association member Rachel Merkel, a high school counselor, said she feels confident the administration will work together to do whats best for AHSTW employees.
I dont think I could say that for every administration that Ive worked under, Merkel said. Theyre going to work with us to do whats best for the employees at this district.
Several area districts, however, are finding themselves joining Lewis Central in waiting for more guidance before moving forward.
Kevin Elwood, superintendent of the Treynor Community School District, said his district was in a holding pattern on contract negotiations pending emergency rules anticipated from the state.
I dont see it changing our relationship, Elwood said. We highly value our staff. Theyre a top priority for our district.
During a time of high anxiety from teachers and staff, Elwood said the district will start the negotiation process as they normally have in years past, once the dust of the new legislation finally settles.
Its a different list we can talk about, but well continue to work with our staff on competitive wages and benefits within the resources we have, Elwood said. We have a positive working relationship with our local association, and I dont see that changing from school board perspective.
Treynor Education Association President Marilyn Abbott, a high school English teacher, said negotiations have been put on hold as the district and union both take time to understand the new legislation.
I think the teachers have been devastated by the new legislation thats been passed, Abbott said. A lot of people think there was no reason for the change because it was a system that was working well. We really feel blindsided, confused and extremely disappointed in the legislation and legislators that did this.
Despite the new legislation, Abbot said the Treynor association is feeling good about negotiating with the administration and school board.
Everybody wants to make the best of a difficult situation, and everybodys priority is still the students and doing the best job we can for them, Abbott said. What happens in this way behind the scenes wont hopefully affect them at all.
The Glenwood Community School District is in the process of starting over since a contract was not done by the time Branstad signed the new bill into law.
Its our understanding that the process has to start over, Superintendent Devin Embray said. Were also waiting for the proposal from our teacher union to move forward.
Embray said both the union and district were also waiting for further guidance from PERB.
As a superintendent, its my hope we can move forward and function as we have in the past, Embray said. Im in between the board and the employees; I wear both hats and I tend to try to work both sides to help them come together for the betterment of the district.
Glenwood Education Association President Maria Jacobus said the association had not re-initiated negotiations yet.
We have associations meeting next week, so the earliest we could begin again would be the week of March 13, Jacobus said in an e-mail.
Tim Mitchell, superintendent of the Riverside Community School District, said the board had received the Riverside Education Associations initial offer and the board had responded, but a settlement hadnt yet been reached.
Mitchell comes from South Dakota where he was a superintendent for 22 years. He took over the Riverside district as the new superintendent July 1 last year.
In South Dakota, if we werent competitive wed lose teachers to Wyoming, Mitchell said. I can lose teachers to Council Bluffs and Omaha very quickly if we dont have some sort of package that allows us to recruit and train our staff.
Since Mitchell is new to the district, he said a collaborative agreement was made, between the district and union association, to wait to settle on a contract until the new legislation was passed.
We didnt want to rush into anything that neither party wouldnt like in the long term, Mitchell said. We knew wed have to start the process over.
He said the district hopes to complete negotiations and get an agreement in place by the end of April. Casey Conover, the Riverside Education Association president as well as a science and social studies teacher, said the union has a good working relationship with the school district.
I think our negotiations will be OK, Conover said. Our union and school are phenomenal. We both trust each other.
On Wednesday, the University of Iowa having endured the threat of lawsuits and days of criticism from students and their parents backed off a plan to eliminate scholarships promised to thousands of current and incoming students.
It was a wise decision.
Students had filed two proposed class-action lawsuits claiming that the universitys cuts violated their constitutional rights and amounted to a breach of contract.
UI President Bruce Harreld announced that he had reinstated the Iowa Heritage Award and four other smaller scholarship programs previously promised to current students and those who start next fall.
Last week Harreld informed 3,071 students that he was eliminating their awards, citing devastating funding cuts approved by lawmakers and Gov. Terry Branstad to help balance the state budget. It was a decision met with criticism from lawmakers, who accused the university of playing politics, and from parents, alumni and students.
While the criticism from parents, alumni and students was to be expected, the accusations from lawmakers that the university was playing politics was, in our view, hypocritical.
The Heritage scholarships, created in 2014 to recruit more students to Iowa, promised an automatic $1,500 annual tuition discount to the children and grandchildren of alumni for four years of undergraduate studies. Many students said they came to Iowa instead of other schools due to the awards, which only required they keep a 2.0 grade point average.
Harreld said he heard concerns from many students and parents who feared financial hardships if the scholarships were eliminated, even though they were not need-based. He said continuing them wont be easy while absorbing a $9.2 million funding cut. He added that he would work with state leaders to establish predictable tuition revenue increases and state support moving forward.
Harreld said the programs would be eliminated for new students beginning in 2018, and the university would prioritize other need-based and merit-based awards.
The university will now look for other ways to find $4.4 million in savings that the scholarship cuts would have generated, school spokeswoman Jeneane Beck said.
Outgoing Board of Regents President Bruce Rastetter said reinstating the scholarships places the University of Iowa in a very difficult financial situation. He warned that the board would bring the universitys below-average tuition rates in line with its national peer group if lawmakers do not adequately invest in the university, which is starting a five-year strategic plan. That could mean major hikes in coming years.
Iowas tuition and mandatory fees for in-state students currently rank at the bottom of an 11-member group of universities that it considers peers: $8,575 this academic year compared to an average of $11,581.
The creation of the now-troublesome four-year Heritage scholarships to recruit the children and grandchildren of alumni regardless of need was ill-conceived from the outset, but promises made are promises that should be kept.
Businesses look to shift cost of workplace injuries to you
Business and insurance interests are trying to wipe out insurance benefits that cover every working Iowan.
Workers compensation is a required employee benefit. It covers medical treatment, lost wages and compensation to workers injured on the job. At least thats what its supposed to do.
In reality, insurance companies often abuse the system to delay and deny benefits to injured workers whose bills pile up. The lucky ones find a lawyer who can help them get medical care, pay bills and feed their kids.
The unlucky ones are left to borrow money from family, or go on public assistance.
Leandra Haughey just started a new job in 2014, cleaning a Marshalltown meatpacking plant at night after meat-processors left for the day. This was not her dream job, but she was happy to have it. One night a coworker noticed she was lost, led her to the basement of the large empty plant, beat her and raped her.
(Leandras rapist is now in prison, where he belongs.)
Iowas workers compensation laws required Leandras employer to provide prompt treatment for her physical and psychological injuries. Instead, they promptly denied her claim and fired her, but not the rapist. They continued to deny her treatment for 19 months until she hired me.
This is an extreme example, but employers and insurance companies routinely delay and deny these guaranteed benefits. House Study Bill 169 in the Iowa Legislature makes it easier for employers and insurance companies to dispose of you rather than pay your benefits.
Business and insurance interests are trying to sell this as a reform package to roll back court cases that helped workers. Thats false.
In 2015, national news publication ProPublica wrote about the demolition of workers compensation: Over the past decade, states have slashed workers compensation benefits, denying injured workers help when they need it most and shifting the costs of workplace accidents to taxpayers.
This bill arbitrarily cuts off benefits for the most severely disabled workers at age 67. It slashes benefits for common workplace injuries, like shoulder injuries. It gives employers and insurance companies broad new authority to deny claims and delay benefits. And it virtually eliminates coverage for orthopedic injuries to workers who are overweight or over 40.
Iowa is joining the race to the bottom in workers compensation.
Will businesses save money? Of course. Workers and taxpayers will be picking up the tab from now on.
Saffin Parrish-Sams, Cumming
Vice President, Iowa Association for Justice
Taxpayers shouldnt fund non-public education
Why do state lawmakers think they need to introduce a bill that would expand school choice options to families in Iowa? The state already gives families several options.
Families can choose to send their child to a private or parochial school, be home-schooled, attend public school and even open-enroll to another district other than the one in which they live. Lawmakers claim there is not enough money in the budget to help with public school costs, and, because of that claim, they only gave public schools a 1.1 percent increase for the coming school year.
So how are they considering giving parents $6,500 in taxpayer money to send children to a private or parochial school or choose to home-school? Things to think about:
Private schools can turn away a student (example: child with special needs).
Private schools have scholarships for those who cannot afford to pay.
Private schools can reduce tuition costs if there are several students from the same family.
Private schools do not have to abide by all of the state and federal regulations that public schools are required to do.
Parents who home-school their children do not need to present a curriculum, have no oversight and are not required to follow the same guidelines as public schools. Currently, there is no accountability or transparency for home-school students. How would the money be accounted for? What happens to the money that is not spent? Is it sent back to the state? Is it pocketed?
I have an issue with using tax-payer money to fund private, parochial and home-schooled children. It is the parents choice not to enroll their child in public school. I do not believe taxpayers should foot the bill.
Diana Powell, Neola
KEARNEY University of Nebraska at Kearney graduate Dayna Larreaus research was recently published in an academic journal known for highlighting work of young researchers and its emphasis on current economic issues.
Her paper, Hedonic Price Analysis of Non-Barren Broodmares, was published in the Review of Economic and Business Studies.
Larreau is a 2015 UNK graduate from Arnold and currently works as an outreach support associate in the College of Business Administration at University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Larreaus research evolved from her personal interest in horses and came about during economics research methods and senior seminar courses at UNK.
The current real average selling price of a thoroughbred broodmare is nearly half its peak value in 2000. While annual price changes are influenced by economic performance, different prices at an auction are influenced by physical and genetic characteristics of broodmares, Larreau said in her research abstract.
A broodmare is a mare used for breeding.
Hedonic pricing identifies factors according to the premise that price is determined by internal characteristics of the horse being sold and external factors affecting it.
Prices are positively influenced by earnings of the covering sire, earnings of the broodmare, pedigree and the racing performance of broodmare progeny, Larreau said. Conversely, the age of a broodmare and the day on which the horse sold have dampening effects on broodmare prices.
She concluded that pedigree and success of a broodmares progeny a descendant or offspring are more important for determining its price than racing performance. Specifically, genetics had the greatest impact on price.
Larreau worked with UNKs Bree Dority and Frank Tenkorang on the paper. Dority is associate dean in the College of Business and Technology, and Tenkorang is chair of the Economics Department.
Sandhill crane migration begins a bit early this year
The sandhill crane migration seems to have begun a bit earlier than usual.
On Thursday, thousands of cranes were feeding and roosting in a field near Bailey Yard.
The Nebraska Game and Parks said in a press release that the numbers of sandhill cranes on the central Platte River during the spring migration typically peak in the third week of March.
Close to 195,000 cranes are on the central Platte as of Feb. 27, according to an aerial survey by the Crane Trust. That figure was around 66,000 just a week ago. Numbers should continue to build with continuing mild weather and viewing should be favorable going forward.
This year remains just behind the pace of last year, which was the earliest migration in our database in terms of large numbers of roosting sandhill cranes along the Platte River in February, said Andrew Caven, lead biologist at the Crane Trust. The early warm weather has continued to coincide with the early arrival of large numbers of sandhill cranes.
The aerial survey detected 213,000 sandhill cranes on the Central Platte during the same time a year ago, but in previous years, the number of cranes ranged from about 5,000 to 60,000 in late February. Last year, according to Crane Trust counts, the crane migration peaked at 413,000 birds on March 14, a week to two weeks ahead of historically recorded peak migration numbers.
Viewing opportunities in and near North Platte are many, as outlined by Julie Geiser, public information officer for Nebraska Game and Parks, in a recent column published in the Telegraph:
Buffalo Bill State Recreation Area has several locations to see cranes that are easily accessible from a vehicle by pulling over to the side of the road. There is also a designated pull-off area near the west end of the SRA, where there are signs about the cranes and the birds can be seen from a vehicle.
A horse trailer blind placed along the fence south of the pull-off area in the SRA overlooks a meadow frequently used by cranes. Cranes use this area several times throughout the day. Blind users will need to park near the signs in the parking area and walk a short distance to the blind.
A river blind is open to the public to see cranes flying the North Platte River at the SRA. This blind requires a short hike on a path starting at the camping area running adjacent to the river. Late evening is the best time to use this blind. A 2017 park permit is required to enter the SRA.
Another public crane viewing blind is located at the North River Wildlife Management Area. From Hershey, drive north three miles on North Hershey Road to Wildlife Road, turn right and go almost two miles east on the gravel. The parking lot will be on the south side of the road.
The Crane Trust provides weekly updates regarding the sandhill crane migration at cranetrust.org.
AG maintains his intent was not to mislead
WASHINGTON (AP) Under intensifying pressure, Attorney General Jeff Sessions abruptly agreed Thursday to recuse himself from any investigation into Russian meddling in Americas 2016 presidential election. He acted after revelations he twice spoke with the Russian ambassador during the campaign and failed to say so when pressed by Congress.
Sessions rejected any suggestion that he had tried to mislead anyone about his contacts with the Russian, saying, That is not my intent. That is not correct.
But he did allow that he should have been more careful in his testimony during his confirmation hearing, saying, I should have slowed down and said, But I did meet one Russian official a couple of times.
The White House has stood by Sessions in the latest controversy to dog President Donald Trumps young administration, though officials say they first learned about his contacts with the ambassador from a reporter Wednesday night. Trump himself said Thursday he had total confidence in Sessions and didnt think he needed to recuse himself not long before he did.
One of Sessions conversations with Ambassador Sergey Kislyak occurred at a July event on the sidelines of the Republican National Convention in Cleveland. At that same event, the ambassador also spoke with Carter Page, who briefly advised Trumps campaign on foreign policy, according to a person with knowledge of the discussion.
Separately, a White House official said Thursday that Trumps son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and ousted national security adviser Michael Flynn met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in New York in December. The official described that sit-down as a brief courtesy meeting.
Flynn was fired last month for misleading Vice President Mike Pence about his contacts with Kislyak.
The Trump teams account of Flynns contacts with the ambassador has changed several times. The White House did not disclose the in-person meeting, or Kushners involvement, until Thursday.
Both the White House official and the person with knowledge of Pages discussion insisted on anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly disclose the meetings.
Trump has been trailed for months by questions about potential ties to Russia, and allegations of Russian efforts to interfere in the U.S. election to help him defeat Hillary Clinton. The new president and his campaign officials have blamed such contentions on Democratic sore losers and have heatedly denied any contact with Russians concerning the election.
While there is nothing necessarily nefarious or even unusual about a member of Congress meeting with a foreign ambassador, typically members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee meet with foreign ambassadors, not Armed Services Committee lawmakers, such as Sessions, whose responsibility is oversight of the military and the Pentagon.
The latest development comes on the heels of what had been the high point of Trumps young presidency: a well-received address to Congress Tuesday night that energized Republicans and appeared to wipe away some lawmakers concerns about the administrations tumultuous start.
But Sessions faced a rising chorus of demands that he resolve the seeming contradiction between his two conversations in the summer and fall with Kislyak and his sworn statements to Congress in January, when he said he had not had communications with Russians during the campaign.
TECUMSEH Two inmates were confirmed dead after a disturbance at the Tecumseh State Prison on Thursday, prison officials said.
Numerous other inmates suffered non-life threatening injuries, but no staff were injured, corrections director Scott Frakes said at a press conference later in the evening.
It was the second deadly disturbance at the Tecumseh prison in less than two years.
Frakes said prison staff did not use force in response to Thursdays disturbance. All the fatalities and injuries to inmates were inflicted by inmates, he said.
Prison officials declined to identify the inmates who died or say how they were killed. They also did not disclose the criminal histories of the two victims.
Frakes said the disturbance was contained to one half of housing unit two. Inmates set several fires inside the unit, in addition to outside in a mini-yard.
Frakes said the damage to the prison was not extensive.
Gov. Pete Ricketts appeared at Thursday evenings press conference, which was held inside the prison.
He defended the work of his corrections director and praised the work of prison staff and law enforcement officers in their response to the incident.
The Department of Corrections is doing heroic work to keep this facility safe for both the inmates and the staff, he said.
Still, he acknowledged serious challenges remain.
We know we have work to do with this system, a somber-faced Ricketts said.
It took until into the evening Thursday for the distirbance to be brought into control.
As darkness fell, corrections officers and state troopers in riot gear moved into the mini yard where 20 to 30 inmate were still gathered and fires had been burning.
Shortly before 6:30 p.m., about 30 armed troopers and prison officers, clad in black, began moving in on the mini yard.
State prison officials reported at 5:30 p.m. Thursday that fires were out and all inmates had been secured. The Corrections Department said that emergency response teams had entered the unit and that the unit was habitable. But, about that time, smoke still could be seen rising from the mini yard.
About 4:30 p.m., five State Patrol pickups and a cruiser entered the prison grounds. An unmarked pickup carrying three armed men wearing military gear turned in to the entrance road to the prison shortly afterward. Two ambulances entered the grounds, as well as three other vehicles.
Spokeswoman Dawn-Renee Smith said about 40 of the 128 inmates in a housing unit were involved in the disturbance. At mid-afternoon, prison officials released a statement saying no injuries had been reported.
Scotty Gottula, chairman of the Johnson County Board, said that when he arrived at the scene north of the prison about 2 p.m., he could see people throwing what appeared to be mattresses on a fire.
The inmates could be seen with their faces covered as they added items to the bonfire.
The fire was visible in the afternoon outside the north side of the prison, and gray smoke continued to blow in a strong breeze.
A statement from the Corrections Department was careful to say that the disturbance was not a riot, though others termed it differently.
Mike Marvin, who heads the union that represents corrections officers, said hed been told that rioting is taking place in the same housing units that were ransacked and burned during the 2015 Mothers Day riot at Tecumseh.
Marvin, executive director of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees, said that some of the same conditions that spawned the 2015 riot overcrowding and lack of rehabilitation programs still exist in the state prison system.
Johnson County Sheriff Scott Walton said his office got a call about 1:30 p.m. to provide surveillance and security outside the prison fences. He and five deputies his entire department went to the scene.
Walton said he was told that there was a fire or fires inside the facility.
Deputies were guarding the perimeter of the facility and moving onlookers away.
Tecumseh native Logan Dorsey said incidents like the one Thursday are concerning for those who live near the prison, which currently houses more than 1,000 inmates.
How are we to feel safe if they cant keep things under control? he asked.
Our guards are doing their best, Dorsey said, but the overpopulation in the prison system is a serious problem that needs to be fixed immediately before someone gets hurt or killed.
The state prison system is holding about 1,900 more inmates than the systems design capacity, according to the departments September 2016 data report, the latest posted on the agencys website.
Housing Unit 2, the site of Thursdays disturbance, also was affected by the 2015 riot.
That riot caused more than $2 million in damage, and two inmates were killed at the hands of other inmates.
On May 10, 2015, inmates were milling about when one inmate slugged a corrections officer in the face, starting a chain of assaults and vandalism. As inmates took control, a guard in the watch tower fired a warning shot, then fired a shot that hit an inmate in the leg.
Inmates Shon Collins and Donald Peacock died from blunt force trauma, according to their death certificates. No arrests have been made. Both men were serving long sentences for having sexually assaulted minors.
Between 100 and 200 inmates set fires and vandalized housing units in the 2015 riot. Inmates gained control of two of the three housing units, which included staff offices but not control centers.
LINCOLN State prison officials Friday morning identified the two inmates who were killed in a prison disturbance the day before.
Damon Fitzgerald and Michael Galindo were killed, presumably by other inmates, after a group of 40 inmates seized control of a portion of a housing unit at the Tecumseh State Prison on Thursday afternoon.
Fitzgerald, 39, was serving 310 to 470 years for first-degree sexual assault, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, burglary and third-degree assault on a peace officer.
Galindo, 31, was serving 12 to 21 years in prison for a variety of offenses in Buffalo and Scotts Bluff Counties, including robbery, forgery and possession of a controlled substance.
Any loss of life is tragic. The TSCI staff handled the situation extremely well, which limited the incident to a small number of participants and minimal damage, said Corrections Director Scott Frakes. The publics safety was never compromised.
A relative of Galindos said Friday her family is devastated, adding that she was in frequent contact with him and had a visit scheduled with him for this Sunday. In previous conversations, he never indicated that there was bad blood between him and other inmates.
A Nebraska State Patrol official called Galindos mother about 4 a.m. Friday to inform the family. The official did not reveal how he was killed or provide any information about the investigation, said the relative, who asked that her name not be published.
Her family will explore a lawsuit, she said. But for now, they want answers and accountability.
I want to know who the hell did this, she said through tears.
Fitzgerald was sentenced in 2007 for 12 charges stemming from the rapes of two women and two attacks on corrections officers in Douglas County. At his sentencing, a prosecutor called Fitzgerald a predator, chronic menace and sociopath.
But his attorney defended him as a victim of childhood sexual abuse who bounced from foster homes to Boys Town to several clinics.
At 17, Fitzgerald, formerly known as Damon Bullion, was involved in a police chase in which he drove 100 mph and crashed a stolen vehicle, killing his 15-year-old stepbrother.
In 2005, Fitzgerald sprang from the shadows to rape two women.
In one attack, he pulled a woman to a secluded spot in an alley near 73rd and Blondo Streets and raped her.
In another, he broke into a house where an 18-year-old girl was babysitting her 2 1/2-month-old niece. Authorities said Fitzgerald asked the girl: Whos it going to be you or the baby?
Friday morning, state lawmakers debated the staff response to Thursdays melee, the second deadly disturbance at the prison.
On the floor of the State Legislature, State Sen. Dan Watermeier of Syracuse, whose district includes the prison, praised staff members for their quick reaction in isolating the uprising and from keeping it from threatening public safety.
Watermeier said staff has improved its response to prison disturbances since a Mothers Day 2015 riot at Tecumseh left two inmates dead and some staffers injured, and did more than $2 million in damages to the maximum-security prison.
These things can happen and they probably will happen in the future ... but its something we need to work on, the senator said.
But Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers challenged that assessment prior to the completion of an investigation into Thursdays melee. He said things have gone steadily gone downhill since Scott Frakes was hired as state corrections director 25 months ago by Gov. Pete Ricketts, whose family owns the online stock trading company, TD Ameritrade.
Ameritrade would be out of business right now if there was this much incompetency on behalf of employees, Chambers said.
Ricketts and Corrections Department officials denied that Thursdays melee was a riot.
Prison riot, as defined by the American Correctional Association, is when a significant number of inmates control a significant portion of the facility for a significant period of time.
State Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln questioned that description by Corrections officials. How can what happened yesterday be described as anything but a riot? he said.
Anytime that two individuals who are in the care of the state of Nebraska are murdered, the public safety is at risk, Morfeld said. All too often our concerns with the Department of Corrections are minimized and decisive action is not taken. ... The time for department to take action is now. ... How many more people are going to have to die before we get that message?
Thursday, about 40 inmates took over half of a housing unit for about 3 hours. The affected area can hold up to 128 inmates. After staff members abandoned their posts Thursday afternoon, several fires were set, several fights between inmates broke out and the two inmates were found dead.
Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks of Lincoln said the events were hideous and disturbing but not surprising, especially for lawmakers who have been involved with the committees investigating corrections over the years.
Lawmakers launched the first investigation after the World-Herald uncovered widespread mistakes in sentence calculations and Nikko Jenkins went on a killing spree following his release from prison. Pansing Brooks chaired last years oversight committee.
While some progress has been made over the last few years, she said the agency remains in crisis.
Lincoln Sen. Matt Hansen said it was unacceptable that two inmates were killed and the prison was damaged by fire.
He noted that there have been two prison disturbances, four inmates killed and an escape involving two inmates since the current prison administration took over.
This is not a trend that seems to be working, Hansen said.
But Hastings Sen. Steve Halloran said it was wrong to prejudge what happened at Tecumseh prior to an investigation.
Theres a lot of posturing going on here, he said, adding that other states have seen prison riots, too. So far all Ive heard is a lot of posturing from a lot of people who seem to think that prisons are a preschool.
The ACLU of Nebraska has threatened a lawsuit if the state doesnt take steps to relieve overcrowding.
Its become very clear in this most recent tragedy that litigation is no longer a question of if, but simply now a question of when, said Danielle Conrad, the groups executive director. We are working very hard to finalize those litigation strategies.
Conrad said the melee was yet another painful reminder that Nebraskas prison system is failing our state.
We renew our call to the Nebraska Legislature to pass meaningful reforms that are pending this session to slowly remedy the longstanding crisis in Nebraskas prison system, she said. We call on Gov. Pete Ricketts to declare an emergency and bring smart reform now.
The NRL said today that Alex Glenn's Head Injury Assessment (HIA) had been handled appropriately by the Brisbane Broncos during their Round 1 Telstra Premiership match against Cronulla Sharks.
A review of the incident found that Glenn was removed from the field about 35 seconds after his original assessment by the club trainer.
In that time he did not make any hit ups or tackles. In fact he did not come into contact with any opponent.
Glenn was involved in a head clash with a Cronulla Sharks opponent in the 36th minute.
A trainer ran on to the field to attend to him while the Broncos doctor reviewed vision of the incident at the NRL's Sideline Injury Surveillance unit.
Following the on-field assessment, the on-field trainer immediately reported to the Broncos doctor his assessment of Glenn's condition. The Broncos doctor ordered his immediate removal from play for further assessment. He was subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the match.
Glenn must now undergo a review by the Broncos doctor over the next week before he can be cleared to play again.
Families can celebrate St. Patricks Day and Easter with these all-ages events, plus family-friendly arts and outdoor educational events.
A Year with the Frog and Toad
MARCH 3-17, Chicago Street Theatre, 154 W. Chicago St., Valparaiso. 219.464.1636. chicagostreet.org. Based on the storybook favorite, this family musical follows the woodland adventures of two friends a worry-wart toad and his perky frog friend. Children of all ages will be delighted with the play's whimsical score and colorful cast of characters.
LaPorte County High School Art Competition
MARCH 3-26, Southern Shore Art Association Gallery, 724 Franklin St., Michigan City. 219.879.4980. southernshoreartassociation.com. Underwritten by the Unity Foundation, this exhibit will showcase the finest examples of LaPorte County's High School artists in a variety of media.
Maple Sugar Time
MARCH 4-5, 11-12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Chellburg Farm, U.S. 20 and North Mineral Springs Road, Porter. 219.395.1882. nps.gov/indu. Attendees can get a sweet taste and experience the making of maple syrup at various times in history.
Runnin' with the Irish 5K
MARCH 11, 8:30 a.m. kids fun run, 9 a.m. 5K run/walk, Indiana Dunes State Park, 1600 N. CR-25 E., Chesterton. runsignup.com. With a course that travels along the roads of the state park, this annual race offers a half-mile fun run for kids and a 5K run and noncompetitive walk to benefit St. Patrick School in Chesterton.
Leprechaun Fun Run 5K Run/Walk
MARCH 11, 9 a.m., Crown Brewing, 211 S. East St., Crown Point. 219.663.4545. crownbrewing.com. This family/pet-friendly 5K fun run benefits St. Baldricks Foundation. Free beer or pop and breakfast buffet will be available to run participants.
Maple Syrup Time on the Weekends
MARCH 11-12, 18-19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Deep River County Park, 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart. 219.769.1215. lakecountyparks.com. Attendees can experience the sticky business of making syrup from tree sap firsthand, plus see how corn is ground into cornmeal and more.
St. Baldricks Merrillville
MARCH 12, noon-4 p.m., LUOE Local 150, 2193 W. 84th Place, Merrillville. 219.440.2281. stbaldricks.org/events/nick6thannualevent. Each year the people are invited to shave their head to raise funds and give hope to infants, children, teens and young adults fighting childhood cancers. Participants who do not want to shave their heads can still raise funds, volunteer or enjoy fun activities for the whole family including a fun fair, a DJ, auctions and more.
Sesame Street LiveMake a New Friend!
MARCH 16-19, Star Plaza Theatre, 8001 Delaware Place, Merrillville. 800.745.3000. starplazatheatre.com. Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby, and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grovers friend from India. Together, they explore the universal fun of friendship and celebrate cultural similarities, from singing and dancing, to sharing cookies.
St. Patricks Day Celebration Crown Point
MARCH 17, 3-6 p.m. dinner, Crown Point City Fire Department, 126 N. East St., Crown Point. dusk parade, along Main St., downtown Crown Point. 219.662.3290. crownpoint.in.gov. The city's St. Patricks Day festivities begin with the annual corned beef and cabbage dinner, followed by the Glow Irish Run/Walk and the illuminated parade with entries that will light up the night.
Photos with the Easter Bunny
MARCH 19, 12:30-2 p.m., Northgate Park, Calumet Avenue and Harrison Place, Dyer. 219.865.1045. dyerchamberofcommerce.com. Children will have a chance to meet the Easter Bunny and have a photo taken.
Flashlight Egg Hunt
MARCH 30, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Schererville Community Center, 500 E. Joliet St., Schererville. schererville.org. Kids can use their flashlights to find prize-filled eggs that are scattered throughout the lawn of the community center. A pizza party and BINGO will follow the hunt. MARCH 21: Registration deadline.
Odd Squad Live!
MARCH 21, 6 p.m., Star Plaza Theatre, 8001 Delaware Place, Merrillville. 800.745.3000. starplazatheatre.com. Odd Squad Live! Springs into action on stage in this action-packed, laugh-out-loud adventure where kids get to participate in solving a seriously strange case.
When Mary Nielsen became the president of the Crown Point Community Foundation, she brought an enormous amount of experience with her.
It was almost enough experience to match the passion she brought to the Foundation.
During the 25 years Nielsen worked for Burrell Colour Labs, the family business started by her father, she found time to volunteer for Meals on Wheels, Bethel Church, the Chamber of Commerce, St. Jude House and Catholic Charities.
I always had a tremendous drive to volunteer. Its a great way to help others and make a difference where you live, work and play, Nielsen says. Im from Crown Point, and helping out in our community with the Foundation seemed a natural progression for me.
This years 8th Annual Volunteer Fair and Blood Drive will be the first one under Nielsens tenure. She spent a couple of months working with former president Pat Huber before she retired.
Im very excited to bring together so many nonprofit organizations to meet with our community-minded residents, she says. Its an honor to be able to see how volunteers find a perfect match with these wonderful organizations.
Nielsens business background includes marketing and sales, and she plans on using those skills to help the Community Foundation in their mission to enrich the quality of life in south Lake County and Northwest Indiana.
The Foundation originally focused on the immediate Crown Point area, she says. As the community grew, and the number of nonprofits expanded, we began to broaden our boundaries and now service all of south Lake County.
As far as the Volunteer Fair, Nielsen is very singular-minded.
Its all about how we can help these nonprofits that do so much for our communities each and every day, she says. We help many of them with grants, and we also try to bring them as much exposure as possible. The Volunteer Fair is a great way to get them out in front of the public.
To those looking to make a difference, Nielsen invites you to come out to Crown Point High School on March 4, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
If you want to find a place to volunteer, this is where you can learn about 90 different organizations that need you, she says. Come out and join us. Youll learn a whole new way of making your community a better place to live.
VALPARAISO The City Council has outlined the process for the appointment of a Valparaiso Community Schools board member.
The position currently held by Jim Jorgensen expires on June 30.
Applicants must be 21 years of age and residents of Valparaiso. State statute requires the board must have at least one member from each political party. This year, party affiliation does not matter.
Application forms will be available on the citys website and at the City Hall clerk-treasurers office. Applications are due by 4 p.m. May 17 at the clerk/treasurer's office in City Hall. No online applications will be accepted.
At the April 10 City Council meeting, VCS Superintendent E. Ric Frataccia will deliver the 2017 State of the Schools Report. Members of the community are invited to share their questions, comments or concerns about the short term, long term, and/or immediate goals as set forth in the report.
In an executive session on May 17, the city council will select five applicants to be interviewed. Finalists will be notified on May 18 or 19.
Two interviews will be held prior to regularly scheduled city council meetings. In the first interview on May 22, city council members will ask questions. The public may attend, but may not participate. The second interview will be on June 26. At this meeting, applicants will be asked questions from the public following which the city council will make its selection of the new VCS board member.
MERRILLVILLE Pat Tuttle, with the Porter County Right to Life organization, said she was ecstatic that former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee was the keynote speaker Thursday night for an organization she holds close to her heart: The Womens Center of Northwest Indiana.
Hes amazing. I would have voted for him as president if he had made it that far, said Tuttle, one of 855 people in attendance Thursday night at the Avalon Manor in Merrillville.
The two-time GOP primary presidential candidates speaking invitation in Northwest Indiana comes amid shifting abortion policy under President Donald Trump's new administration.
Prior to his speech, Huckabee said he supports the mission of The Womens Center which offers adoption information, pregnancy support, and ultrasounds, among other things, to women because the nonprofit provides not only for the child, but the mother, too.
Theyre not just saying lets save the babies. Theyre saying lets save those mothers. Ive always believed that in any abortion, there are two victims, Huckabee said.
The Womens Center, which assists women with crisis pregnancies and offers professional and medical support, first opened in 1989. Since that time, the anti-abortion organization has expanded to include locations in Crown Point, Gary, Highland, DeMotte and Valparaiso.
Though abortion numbers nationally are at historic lows, attempts to defund Planned Parenthood and reverse the 1973 Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade are back in the spotlight with the Trump administration. One of Trumps first acts as president was signing an executive order that bans federal funding to foreign organizations that provide abortions.
Noting the contrast in abortion policy between Trump and former President Barack Obamas administration, Huckabee who ran against Trump in the 2016 primaries but was later offered, then declined, a cabinet position said hes pleased to see a government that actually believes that every life has value.
Our goal should be to elevate life, to elevate people in every spectrum of life, whether its an elderly person in a nursing home or an unborn child, Huckabee said.
Jackie Moffitt, executive director and founder for The Womens Center, said its an honor to have Huckabee signal his support for nonprofits like hers.
She said Huckabee, a long supporter of ending taxpayer-funded abortion, has been on the front lines of the anti-abortion movement for decades.
Politicians like Huckabee and Trump make her hopeful that the changing viewpoints under the new administration will give agencies like The Womens Center a safer platform to speak out.
I think before, in the last administration, we were not seen as politically correct. There were certainly opposing views, Moffitt said. The nonprofits goal is to help women make informed decisions, not to judge, she said.
Were not about judging people about what they decide to do. We just want to be there to help them to make a decision, an informed decision, Moffitt said, noting the group offers post-abortion counseling, as well, and STD testing.
With this being The Women's Center biggest fundraiser of the year, Huckabee urged donors to support the mission by donating to the cause.
If you were driving down the highway and there was an accident and you knew you could stop and save a life, would you do it? Of course we would. If someone was drowning in a pool and you could help save a life. Of course, Huckabee said. Its a greatest feeling in the world to save a life. What these folks are being asked tonight is to ask save lives.
LAPORTE A convicted child killer and molester was granted his request Thursday to be tried outside LaPorte County on a separate charge because of extensive news coverage.
Richard Dobeski is charged with not registering his address as a sex offender.
Dobeski, 69, appeared with his attorney, James Macalka, for a hearing in LaPorte Circuit Court on his motion for a change of venue.
Judge Tom Alevizos agreed to have the case tried in another county.
Alevizos gave the defense and prosecution seven days to agree where they want to have the trial or the decision will be made by LaPorte County Clerk Kathy Chroback.
Dobeski has been living at a downtown Indianapolis homeless shelter for men since his Jan. 30 release from the LaPorte County Jail.
His residence, according to the Marion County sex offender registry, is the Wheeler Mission Shelter for Men.
In 2015, he was released from New Castle Correctional Facility after completing his sentence for the 2007 molestation of a Westville boy and later a parole violation.
On his release papers, the LaPorte County Jail was listed as his address, but he never showed up. That's why charges of failing to register were filed against him in LaPorte County.
A week later, he was homeless when arrested at a library in Indianapolis on a charge of failing to register in Marion County within the required seven days.
Dobeski's conviction in Marion County, though, was later overturned by the Indiana Court of Appeals, which ruled his arrest happened 10 hours prior to the deadline to register.
Dobeski has already served enough time that he would remain free even if convicted of the level 6 felony offense he's facing in LaPorte County according to court documents.
But LaPorte County Prosecutor John Espar said the trial is still relevant because a conviction would mean Dobeski, if ever arrested again for the same violation, would face a level 5 felony offense, carrying a maximum sentence of six years.
"Subsequent crimes of the same kind are elevated in seriousness if there's a previous conviction," Espar said.
GARY A 33-year-old Gary man who pleaded guilty three months ago for firing a handgun at officers in 2014 during a drug raid is back in police custody on drug dealing charges, according to a Lake County court probable cause affidavit.
Two fully loaded weapons an AR-15 rifle with an attached laser and a Glock 23 handgun with two magazines were among the items recovered during a search warrant in the 5200 block of Broadway Street in Gary Tuesday.
Dwayne Allen Gunn, of Gary, faces charges of dealing in cocaine, a level 2 felony, cocaine possession, a level 3 felony, and marijuana possession, a class B misdemeanor after coming in contact Tuesday with police at an apartment building, court records show.
Court records show Gunn was on electronic home monitoring at the time of the alleged offense.
At about 11:30 a.m., a Lake County sheriff's deputy trying to locate another person of interest in a civil matter walked past several apartment doors on the first floor when he noticed a "strong odor of unburnt marijuana."The smell was "so strong" that the officer believed the unit may contain a marijuana grow operation, court records stated.
The apartment windows were covered "and the cracks within the windows were filled with newspaper," the officer said in the affidavit. When the officer knocked, a man, later identified as Gunn, opened the door halfway, limiting the officer's view of the inside, court records show.
When the officer asked Gunn to step out of the apartment to speak with him, Gunn said he would "get the other guy," and slammed the door. The officer could then hear rummaging through the apartment, the opening and closing what I believed to be drawers and cabinets, records show.
"Nobody's here, nobody's here!" Gunn told police after being ordered to open the door, according to court records.
Fearing Gunn was destroying evidence, the officer forced his way into the apartment. Once inside, Gunn was taken into custody. The officer said he then "conducted a protective sweep" for any additional people but found no one.
During the sweep, the officer saw a plastic bag containing a off-white powdery substance believed to be suspected cocaine, and several plastic bags, a digital scale and two spoons burnt on each end. Suspected marijuana was also found in the apartment, records show.
The officer then contacted the Lake County Drug Task Force to request a search warrant. Seized in the search were the two weapons, along with about 170 grams of cocaine, 112 grams of marijuana, $22,445 in cash, 2 digital scales with white powder residue that tested positive for cocaine, two cellphones and "numerous items" related to the distribution packing material.
Gunn pleaded guilty in December to two counts of attempted battery, a class C felony. He was alleged to have fired a gun Feb. 4, at members of the Gary Police Department SWAT team when officers served a search warrant on the 5000 block of Virginia Street.
GARY Police secured charges Thursday against an 18-year-old in connection with a Dec. 14 attempted armed robbery in the 3600 block of Van Buren Street.
Jaron Johnson, of Gary, is accused of shooting all three men in a robbery attempt inside the residence before fleeing the area, according to Gary police Lt. Dawn Westerfield.
Johnson, who is in police custody in Cook County, Illinois, on unrelated charges, faces three counts each of attempted murder, battery by means of a deadly weapon, battery resulting in serious bodily injury and one count of attempted armed robbery resulting in serious bodily injury.
Anyone with information about this incident or other activity by Johnson is urged to contact Detective Sgt. Gregory Wolf at 219-881-1210 or the Crime Tip Line. To remain anonymous, call the 866-CRIME-GP.
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MERRILLVILLE Two proposed restaurants have support from town officials.
The Town Council and Board of Zoning Appeals have approved special exceptions sought for the Breakfast Society and Smoothie King establishments.
Representatives for the Breakfast Society said they want to open as soon as possible at 7600 Broadway. The Smoothie King will occupy one unit in a building at 8180 Mississippi St.
Merrillville Building Director Sheila Shine said the space the Breakfast Society will occupy was previously used for a family restaurant.
Shine said it will have 94 seats for customers. Representatives for the project said the restaurant will have a typical breakfast and lunch menu.
The business is expected to employ seven to eight people.
Councilman Shawn Pettit said addressing vacant buildings on Broadway is a top priority, and he's glad to see a new restaurant open there.
You moving in is extremely exciting, Pettit said.
The Smoothie King franchise will occupy a center unit in a three-tenant facility on Mississippi Street.
That building currently has a Jimmy John's location in one of the units. It isn't yet certain what will occupy the third space available there, said Parth Patel, the owner of the building.
Shine said Smoothie King will offer a variety of fruit-based smoothies, protein bars, granola and other items.
She said the establishment will primarily be a carry-out business, and there will be a couple of seats there for customers. The Smoothie King location won't have a drive-through.
Shine said the business will employ two to three people.
VALPARAISO A 58-year-old man with dementia, who had been missing overnight, was found alive Friday morning lying in a field near Silhavy Road and Chicago Street, according to police.
James Schneider was treated at the scene and taken to Porter Regional Hospital, police said.
The man was spotted at 7:20 a.m. by a person walking her dog.
Schneider, of the 2300 block of Chicago Street, was last seen about 7:30 p.m. Thursday, police said. Police and family had been searching throughout the night for him.
A K-9 tracked Schneider to the Valparaiso University campus area, but was unable to locate him, police said.
Focus, civility and a message of unity characterized President Donald Trump's Tuesday address to Congress and the American people.
It was a refreshing tone emerging from an often toxic national political stage, and we all should be able to take a measure of comfort from Trump's words and delivery.
His message of unity should resonate, not just in national politics but also here in Northwest Indiana.
In particular, our Region could benefit from Trumps challenge to vehemently ask for things that improve our economic and social structure to dream big rather than treating ambitious goals like impossibilities.
Trump opened his speech by commemorating Black History Month as a time to "condemn hate and evil in all of its very ugly forms."
He implored our divided nation to continue finding ways of unifying under common purpose, and he stayed on point while doing so.
There were no tones of sarcasm, incivility or division.
"True love for our people requires us to find common ground," Trump said.
We couldn't agree more. Trump's address, and the calm and focused way he delivered it, contained the types of words our nation has thirsted for since the end of the most divisive presidential race in recent memory.
To be sure, there are many things upon which opponents of Trump will continue to disagree.
While many people aren't happy with the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, championed by the previous president, many other folks have found real benefit in its first attempt at universal health coverage for Americans.
But Trump wasn't talking Tuesday night about putting Obamacare to the torch.
Americans on both sides should find some comfort in his desire to improve the nation's health-care plan, for instance, by continuing to require coverage of pre-existing conditions and providing a "stable transition" of health insurance coverage from the existing plan to any new plans proposed.
The list of other ideas and policies upon which reasonable Americans can differ may be a long one. We haven't always agreed with the president's stances or rhetoric.
But civility and respect must rule the day, and Trump demonstrated both Tuesday.
He also noted that a strong economy, clean environment, quality education and other building blocks of a successful nation aren't mutually exclusive.
Improving our society in these and other arenas are "not too much to ask," he said.
Our Region, which in the past has struggled with political turf wars and resistance to economic and social evolution, would do well to take those words to heart.
Northwest Indiana first responders are invited to a training for a program that aims to prevent infant sleep deaths.
The Direct On-Scene Education, or DOSE, program trains police officers, firefighters and emergency medical specialists to be on the lookout for unsafe infant sleep conditions when responding to calls. Babies who don't sleep alone, on their backs and in a crib (the "ABCs" of safe sleep) are at a higher risk of suffocation or strangulation, public health experts say.
On Monday, DOSE representatives will be in St. John and Crown Point for the "train-the-trainers" event. Agency officials can then take the information back to their own departments to train their staffs.
Participating agencies are eligible to receive portable cribs and infant safe sleep books to distribute to parents while on calls.
DOSE was developed by Capt. James Carroll, of Fort Lauderdale (Florida) Fire Rescue. His area has reportedly seen a reduction in infant sleep deaths since the program was implemented in 2012.
Indiana has the eighth-highest infant mortality rate in the nation. Accidental suffocation or strangulation during sleep is the third-leading cause of infant death in the state.
The trainings will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Monday at the St. John Fire Department, 11033 W. 93rd Ave., and from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Crown Point Fire Department, 126 N. East St.
VALPARAISO Janice Phillips was working at a community health center on the West Side of Chicago in the 1980s when she faced a conundrum.
The clinic offered free mammograms, yet many women in the neighborhood weren't getting them. Instead, they were dying from breast cancer at alarming rates.
"Here we have a clinic in the center of the community. We're saying to women, 'If you can't afford to come, we'll still take care of things. We will link you to treatment services. We will even go with you to make sure you receive your care,'" she said. "I became very curious as to why people weren't banging down the doors to be screened for cancer."
She entered a doctoral program in public health nursing, researching why middle- to low-income black women weren't getting tested. Some of the reasons: past negative medical experiences, knowing people who died from cancer, a general fear of the disease.
She later entered academia, which brought her back to Chicago in 2005. "The breast cancer outcomes of black women in the city of Chicago had not changed in all those years I was gone," she said.
She decided to gather stakeholders, including breast cancer survivors, and lobbied for legislation in Illinois' state capital. The result was the 2008 Reducing Breast Cancer Disparities Act, which improved access, navigation, cost and quality standards for breast cancer screening.
Phillips told this story last week at Valparaiso University, as part of the school's Pathways to Purpose speaker series, to illustrate the importance of policy in shaping the nation's health.
"I'd like to advocate that all of us who are in health care particularly should be (studying) health policy," said Phillips, who is now the director of government and regulatory affairs at the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools, a licensing agency in Philadelphia. "We need to stick our necks out a little bit, get out of our comfort zones."
Her talk came at a time when federal lawmakers are discussing plans to reshape the nation's health care system, just seven years after the Affordable Care Act did the same thing. Republicans in the White House, Senate and House have vowed to repeal and replace the law, also known as Obamacare.
Phillips recalled an early job, working in the emergency room at the University of Chicago hospital. Every day, she would pass a sign indicating the center was funded by the Hill-Burton Act.
At the time, she had no idea what that meant. She later learned the 1946 law gave hospitals funds for construction in exchange for caring for the poor.
"I didn't have an appreciation that someone had to lobby and advocate for the resources I had to provide to my patients," she said.
Several years ago, she decided to take a more direct role in shaping health policy. She applied for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's health policy fellowship, and was accepted, serving in the office of then-U.S. Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.V. She worked on such topics as the Affordable Care Act and prescription drug abuse.
Phillips said everyday people can get involved by talking to their representatives, publishing articles and joining community organizations that affect health policy.
"Some of the major advancements that we see in the advocacy arena start with people just like us in this room, grassroots individuals," she said. "If you trace the history of the breast cancer movement, it started with a group of women, some of them survivors, who became very passionate about the whole issue of breast cancer screening and unequal breast cancer treatment."
"Seize the opportunity to advance the future of health care through advocacy and political activism," she said.
Standing up for kids on Childrens Day
NZEI Te Rui Roa members will be out in force around the country to celebrate Childrens Day on Sunday, while also sending a message to government that treasuring children has to be more than empty platitudes.NZEI will have a presence at many local events , promoting our Every Child is Worth It campaign to restore funding for quality ECE.NZEI President Lynda Stuart said the governments own figures showed that annual per-child funding in ECE has dropped by more than $500 since 2009/10.Our members are calling on the Government to show that they truly value children by ending the ECE funding freeze so every child has access to a quality early education and 100% qualified teachers. And were asking parents and the wider community to join us in making quality education an election issue, she said.NZEI stands at Childrens Day events will have art activities for children and information about the Every Child is Worth It campaign and simple ways to get involved.Our children are our national taonga. We cant celebrate children without also standing up for them and ensuring they get the best possible start in life, said Ms Stuart.
The state wants to fix a crumbling road that leads into San Onofre State Park, but the Surfrider Foundation opposes the plan because surfers fear the upgrade could change the areas famed waves and lead to long-term erosion.
Last month, as erosion damaged parts of San Onofre, the state filed an emergency permit with the California Coastal Commission that outlined a plan to use rocks and boulders to reinforce roughly 900 feet of dirt road near the beach entrance. The road that lets beach lovers get to the highly-desirable stretch of sand between San Clemente and San Diego has been shut down more days than its been open this winter because of instability, especially after big storms.
Officials described the rock part of their plan as an emergency, temporary solution to creating a more stable road. The renovation would include two layers of foundation, with as much as 10 tons of rocks and boulders according to a Coastal Commission report.
But Surfrider scientists say that plan could fundamentally alter the size of the beach and, over time, change the areas smooth, ridable waves.
Its not a good change, said Rick Wilson, senior staff scientist for the San Clemente-based organization.
Look at all the alternatives, he added. Dont jump into something that is going to change the beach forever.
The commission approved the plan, with a condition that the rocks be removed by Nov. 1, according to the report.
The project is set to start in 2-to 3 weeks, with completion expected in June, according to Todd Lewis, superintendent for Orange Coast District with State Parks.
Surfrider Foundation this week published an article questioning the wisdom of that short-term solution.
Were just a little concerned the State Parks is going to come in and drop a bunch of rocks there to keep the entrance open, which is a noble goal, Wilson said.
The problem is, once you start dropping rocks, it leads to more rocks and more rocks. Whether its sooner or later, its liable to affect the width of the beach and amount of sand there.
Adding the rocks will cause passive erosion, meaning the shore will erode toward any hard structure, according to the Surfrider article. That, in turn, could shrink the beach profile and wipe out the shallow water that create that areas breaking waves.
Further, theres a loss of beach because bluffs no longer contribute sand to the area.
Wilson said the rocks could also cause a high-tide backwash. That, too, could affect some of the left-breaking waves at a popular break known as the Point near the beach entrance.
What weve found, nationwide, you armor the coast, you stop the natural movement of the beach and you end up with less beach, and at high tide, a backwash affects the surf, Wilson said.
The Surfrider Foundation article calls for long-term solutions, including altering the bluff in order to shift the road further inland, relocating the parking lot to the top of the bluff, or using sand and cobblestones for soft armoring alternatives.
We need to start looking 5, 10, 20 years down the road, Wilson said.
While there are plans to remove the rocks in November, the possibility remains that at that point (it) may be deemed too expensive, which means the public will be stuck with a temporary solution made permanent problem, the report reads.
Surfrider plans to formulate an alternative plan.
Its a difficult problem, and unfortunately its a problem that I think is going to be turning up more and more with climate change and sea-level rise, Wilson said. Ive surfed San Onofre more than 40 years, I want to keep that open as much as anybody.
San Onofre surf beachs storied history dates to the early 1900s. In 1925, anglers drawn to a fish camp popularized the area already known as San Onofre to as a camping destination.
In the 30s, early surfers were stoked to find San Onofres long, gentle waves that rivaled Waikiki, Hawaiis popular surf spot in Honolulu. Boards were big and heavy and clunky in those days, and the gentle, sloping breaks at San Onofre were perfect for the surfers of the era.
The area became so popular among surfers that the fish camp changed its name, becoming the mainlands first surfing camp.
After World War II, and a sale of the land to the Marine Corps, people returned to surf, fish and camp. Though that violated the law, Camp Pendleton leaders did not aggressively enforce it.
Soon, however, San Onofre became too popular as a party destination, prompting leadership at Camp Pendleton to consider shutting the beach.
The San Onofre Surf Club started in 1952, becoming the unofficial caretaker and allowing only club members access to the beach. In exchange, the club maintained the property.
San Onofre Surfing Club member Don Craig, whose father was a founding member, said the current erosion problem is the worst hes ever seen.
Last year, an area at the south end known as Dog Patch crumbled from erosion, taking with it about 100 parking spots. A 30-foot wind indicator made by surfers that had survived for several decades toppled over after it was battered by high tides and strong surf.
This year, the entry road is so unstable that recreational vehicles are temporarily prohibited from entering. Rains caused a small landslide from the cliff near the south end of the beach, and the sand is nearly gone from the base of a man-made, iconic wooden fort.
But theres hope. The rains also push sand from creeks back to the beach, and Craig noticed recently that the beach is starting to come back.
Craig said hes less worried about what the rocks will do to the small stretch of beach than he is about the bigger picture of using San Onofre.
If we dont do something about it, he said, we wont have access.
Contact the writer: lconnelly@scng.com
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals dilemma can be resolved. DACA postpones deportation for two years to children of undocumented immigrants who entered our country as minors. To be eligible for DACA, individuals are required to be enrolled in, or have completed higher education or college. They are then granted permission to work and stay in our country.
Without a requirement for DACA enrollees to either become permanent residents or U.S. citizens, a huge backlog of DACA applicants were created. Today, there are approximately 750,000 DACA individuals in the U.S., 500,000 of which are in California 38 percent of the students at Santa Ana College are DACA students.
Many of our DACA students at Santa Ana College have expressed their concern about what they have heard from, and what they have heard about, Donald Trump. Now that he is our president, much of the concern of our DACA students has turned into anxiety and trepidation because the issue of their fate has been sensationalized by the media and immigration groups on both sides of the issue.
I was recently in Washington, D.C., and I spoke to Orange County House of Representatives members Lou Correa, Ed Royce and Mimi Walters, as well as speaking to Sen. Dianne Feinstein and the office of Sen. Kamala Harris. They all expressed an eagerness and determination to develop a policy on what to do about DACA students. They all wanted to gain a greater understanding of the problem and how to practically resolve it. I believe the Trump administration seeks the same. After studying this issue, the problem was apparent, and so was an equitable solution.
The dilemma that we face is one of fear and perception. Under DACA, individuals divulge their place of residence, and thereby, the residency of their parents that are here illegally. The fear of deportation of family members by those in DACA is heightened by the misguided perception that the Trump administration will take action against those family members. President Trump has said that he has no intention of breaking up families and that he supports DACA. Any changes to DACA must allay the fear and perception that it will be used by the current administration to break up families while establishing a provision to deal with the 11 million undocumented immigrants in our nation.
Americans are a generous people, but we also demand justice. We cant deport 11 million people from our country, its impractical and would be seen as cruel. It also makes little sense to allow criminal alien felons to remain here. We can use DACA to help us identify the type of immigrant that we desire and screen for those that we dont. Those that apply for DACA are by definition either college students, working or both. They likely come from families that espouse these same values. Values of work and education is what we would expect of immigrants to our country.
I propose two new policies or changes be made to current DACA provisions. First, to support President Trumps desire to keep families united, the parents of DACA individuals should be granted the same deferred action from deportation while, secondly, also requiring all protected under DACA to apply for permanent residency.
Green card holders are granted permission to live and work in our country, but they are not U.S. citizens. Green card holders are not entitled to many of the social support programs available to U.S. citizens and they are not allowed to vote because they remain citizens of other countries. They may still choose to apply to become U.S. citizens by using the processes that we use today, so there is no preferential treatment.
This would then allow us to properly screen these individuals, and their parents, through the same immigration standards that we use today. This will reduce the number of those in our country that lack proper documentation while screening for undesirable felons. Families would be held intact, the fear of deportation would be removed, the immigration process would be upheld and an orderly process to begin to reduce the 11 million here without documentation would begin.
Additional support should be given to the Immigration and Naturalization Service to help manage the existing backlog of applications and the additional applications that would be created. Greater border security would also be needed to avoid the problems that we experienced in the Immigration Reform Act of 1986.
Americans are a generous people. We granted U.S. citizenship to 730,000 in 2015 and over 6.6 million in the past 10 years. We need to start a fair process to deal with the 11 million in our country now without documentation. DACA can be used as a vehicle to protect students, identify those that espouse values that we all uphold while properly screening for those felons that should not be allowed to stay in our country. Granting DACA protections to parents while requiring that all under DACA apply for permanent U.S. residency can help those that want to achieve the American dream, as well as those that want to preserve it.
Phillip Yarbrough is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Rancho Santiago Community College District.
The Fullerton School District has agreed to pay $4.5 million to settle lawsuits filed by the families of five boys concerning allegations of sexual molestation by an eighth-grade teacher, officials said Thursday.
The largest settlement, $3.25 million, was reached with the families of three boys, and a second settlement of $1.25 million went to the families of two other boys, said Susan Hume, the districts assistant superintendent for business. Both settlements were made in January.
Melissa Nicole Lindgren, a former math teacher at Nicolas Junior High School, pleaded guilty in October 2015 to three felony counts of lewd acts on a child age 14 or 15 and was sentenced to more than four years in state prison.
Lindgren, 29 at the time, originally faced 10 felony counts, including distributing pornography to a minor after texting, among other things, graphic photos of her vagina and breasts.
The settlements close out a case that at one point brought out a standing-room-only crowd of 500-plus parents demanding answers at a school-organized forum.
In this case, everything that happened with her, we responded very quickly, appropriately and with the allowable transparency we could, Hume said.
John Manly, an attorney who represented the families of three of the students, disagreed, saying the Fullerton School District has been about as transparent as the Catholic Church has been about priest abuse.
They had all kinds of warning signs, red lights, said Manly, whose clients include two of the children involved in the criminal case.
Bob Pletka, the districts superintendent, said the case has spurred increased awareness, training on risky behaviors and a new assessment during hiring that looks at and measures good judgment.
The case also highlighted that theres no certain profile for child molesters, Pletka said. Melissa was a popular young lady not what one would think fits a stereotype of a child molester.
The school district will end up paying $50,000 of the settlement money, Hume said. The remainder was covered by the districts insurance company.
Staff writer Kelly Puente contributed to this report.
Contact the writer: 714-796-7829 or rkopetman@scng.com
TUSTIN A male driver was killed Tuesday when his car struck a light pole and a tree, police said.
Around 10:30 p.m., a black Honda Accord was involved in a minor traffic collision with another vehicle at El Camino Real and Newport Avenue, said Tustin police Lt. Robert Wright. The Accord then went eastbound on El Camino Real at a high rate of speed, he said.
As the Accord reached El Camino Real and Red Hill Avenue, the driver hit a curb and traveled eastbound. The car drove over a curb in front of a Mobil gas station, struck the base of a light pole, careened into the parking lot and hit a tree, said Wright.
Witnesses ran to the vehicle and gave medical aid to the injured driver. Police and firefighters who arrived continued lifesaving measures, but the driver, who has not been identified, died at Orange County Global Medical Center in Santa Ana.
The crash remains under investigation.
Contact the writer: 714-796-7767 sschwebke@scng.com Twitter: @thechalkoutline
Americans are deeply divided on many issues, but one issue that continues to unite us is a deep concern about economic security in retirement. A research report just released by the National Institute on Retirement Security found that 88 percent of Americans believe our nation faces a retirement crisis and 77 percent of Americans agree that the disappearance of pensions is killing the American dream. And these findings reflect levels of concern that remain high regardless of gender, income, age or party affiliation.
My lifes work is standing with social workers, public health nurses, clerical, custodial and other public workers whose pensions will average less than $3,000 a month, so these findings make it even more puzzling why a group of ultra-conservative, mostly multi-millionaires have made it their mission to destroy retirement security for workers.
These self-branded reformers have claimed in the pages of this paper they want simple pension reform, but they dont offer any options that would improve the system. Instead, the proposals they make would all have one common outcome the destruction of the pension system and the elimination of secure retirements for public workers. They have even promoted initiatives that would take away death and disability benefits from the families of deceased police officers and firefighters.
Their strategy is to pit public workers against private workers and drive people into 401(k)-style plans that have proven to be a failure as the basis of a secure retirement.
Unlike these reformers whose goal is to destroy pension systems, public workers recognize the need for solvent and secure retirement funds. We support responsible approaches to reducing unfunded liabilities over time and hundreds of labor organizations statewide have bargained contracts that increase employee contributions and reduce pension benefits and costs. The vast majority of public workers dont receive Social Security so a healthy, fair and sustainable pension system is critical.
The pension changes signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown were projected to save $85 billion over 30 years, and according to CalPERS these savings are being achieved at an even faster rate than projected. California public workers are now required to pay 50 percent of the normal cost of pensions, and are paying sometimes more than 20 percent of their salaries directly into their pension programs in Orange County. The law also capped pension benefits and eliminated pension spiking.
Every Californian deserves a solid and secure retirement, from peace officers to tech workers, bus drivers to nurses, public workers to private sector employees. Workers in the private sector should be especially alert and wary. They were sold a bill of goods when their pensions were eliminated in favor of 401(k) plans, a move the originators of 401(k) plans now say they regret.
Wall Street, where extraordinary recklessness seriously undermined pension solvency, would be happy to continue down a path toward decreasing retirement security and increasing fees for brokers and bankers. The question is, who will foot the bill for the millions of workers who will be unable to retire with dignity or security? Every worker deserves a livable pension and health benefit. Legitimate, well-intentioned pension reform advocates should be committed to avoiding the mistakes and pay more attention to the overwhelming majority of Americans who view pensions as a necessary component in the effort to preserve the American dream.
Jennifer Muir Beuthin is general manager of the Orange County Employees Association.
LOS ANGELES Aiming to quell a rash of violence plaguing a South Los Angeles community, police officers raided more than a dozen homes Thursday and seized an array of high-powered rifles, ballistic armor, handguns and more than $50,000 worth of drugs.
Fifteen members of the Los Angeles-based Black P. Stone street gang were arrested during the early morning raids, police said. Officers found nearly a dozen long guns, including assault rifles, along with ballistic vests with heavy trauma plates and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. They also seized more than two kilograms of cocaine, as well as PCP and marijuana they believe was being sold in a 30-block area in the southwestern portion of Los Angeles.
This is going to be a very significant hit to the gang, Los Angeles police captain Darnell Davenport said. These are not every day weapons. These people are heavily armed.
A two-month investigation, spurred by an uptick in crime in the area, began when undercover officers started buying marijuana, cocaine, PCP and methamphetamine, said Officer James Moon, the cases lead investigator. Police later developed information that led them to the 12 single-family homes that were raided.
You have great individuals who live in this area and work in this neighborhood and they live in fear every day because of this gang, Moon said. There is no doubt in my mind these guns were being sold and being used in robberies, shootings and burglaries.
The highest-ranking gang member arrested in Thursdays raids was Michael Bodie, 30, who went by the street name Tank, and is in charge of the gangs operations in the area, Moon said. It was unclear if Bodie had an attorney who could comment on the allegations.
The gang, which originated in Chicago in the 1960s, is believed to have about 250 active members in Los Angeles, Davenport said. Police suspect the gang is responsible for five homicides, nearly two dozen sexual assaults and 167 robberies that were committed in Los Angeles last year. It was unclear how many of those cases were solved and police said none of the 15 people arrested Thursday had been charged in connection with those crimes.
Young Kims announcement last month that shed run for county supervisor in 2018 was a surprise because observers on both sides of the aisle expected her to mount a strong challenge Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silvas 2018 reelection bid.
Kims decision makes her the frontrunner for the supervisors seat being vacated by termed-out Shawn Nelson, and could make Quirk-Silvas reelection bid easier.
Quirk-Silva, a Fullerton Democrat, was first elected to the seat in 2012 when she upset Republican incumbent Chris Norby. Kim, a Republican, then beat Quirk-Silva in 2014 and Quirk-Silva returned the favor last year, winning the seat back and helping Democrats gain a two-third supermajority in the lower chamber.
Kim has been seen as a strong 2018 contender in the ping-pong lineage of the seat, particularly given that Republicans have won it the last two non-presidential elections elections during which Democratic voter turnout typically lags.
Assemblywoman Young Kim would have been a great candidate to challenge Sharon Quirk-Silva, said Fred Whitaker, chairman of the county GOP. She had beaten Quirk-Silva once before and left nothing on the table in this last race.
But the Assembly district is rapidly changing. Once a Republican stronghold, Democrats pulled even in 2012 and now hold the edge in voter registration, 40-percent to 32-percent.
And while Kim raised an impressive $2.9 million for last years race, the Democrats huge numerical advantage statewide translates into cash. Quirk-Silva raised $4.1 million.
Whitaker declined to speculate on possible Republican candidates for 2018. I asked Jodi Balma, a political scientist at Fullerton College who follows the areas politics, if she thought the county GOP was waving the white flag for that district.
Whether the party is giving up the seat remains to be seen, she said. We need to see the caliber of candidate they field and how much money they spend.
Supervisor candidates
Democrats also have a 40-percent to 32-percent voter registration advantage in the Board of Supervisors Fourth District, where Kim is running.
But Kim could have an easier time there than the Assembly district for several reasons: There is no incumbent and the Democrats mentioned so far as possible candidates lack Kims name recognition. Also, Republicans tend to do better in non-partisan races in Democratic districts than they do in partisan races in those districts.
The supervisors race is officially non-partisan, but the parties are active in getting their candidates elected.
Republican voters are more likely to pick up on the subtle queues that there is a Republican running, like endorsements from the the Chamber of Commerce, Balma said.
Beside Kim, those to open campaign accounts so far are Tim Shaw, a GOP councilman from La Habra, and Cynthia Aguirre, a Democratic La Habra school board member.
Other Republicans mentioned as possible candidates include Fullerton Councilwoman Jennifer Fitzgerald, Fullerton Mayor Bruce Whitaker and Anaheim Councilwoman Lucille Kring. Other Democrats are La Habra Mayor Rose Espinoza, former Brea City Councilman Brett Murdock and Joe Kerr, former president of the Orange County Professional Firefighters Association.
If she makes it to the Board of Supervisors, Kim would likely find herself alongside four other Republicans. That means fellow elected officials more receptive to GOP ideas than in Sacramento, where Democrats control the agenda.
Kim said that calculus is not her motivation.
The partisan makeup has nothing to do with my decision, she said. With all the challenges in Sacramento, more and more of the issues that affect Orange County require local solutions.
Rohrabacher and Abramoff
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher continues to attract the attention of the national press for his unlikely meetings (including French ultra-conservative Marine Le Pen) and defenses of controversial figures (Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump).
This past week, Politico detailed Rohrabachers foreign affairs efforts on behalf of disgraced former lobbyist Jack Abramoff, who spent 3 years in prison after pleading guilty to fraud, tax evasion and conspiracy to bribe public officials before being released in 2010.
After the November election, Abramoff reached out to longtime friend Rohrabacher to help win U.S. support for an African alliance to defeat the Boko Haram terrorist group, according to Politico.
On behalf of unidentified European friends, Abramoff also asked the Costa Mesa Republican if he could get a meeting for Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso with then President-elect Donald Trump.
Sassou Nguesso had expressed a willingness to participate in an alliance, according to Politico. Additionally, Abramoffs friends were believed to have financial investments in Congo, the report said.
Jack comes to me and says, We have a chance at putting togeher something to get rid of this group thats murdering all these Christians in Africa, Rohrabacher told Politico. Would you be interested in following through on this? I said, of course I was.
Rohrabacher traveled to Congo in February and met with Sassou Nguesso. The congressman said he would pass along his request for a meeting with Trump. He also defended Abramoff, whom Politico described as politically toxic in Washington for more than a decade.
I have a very open relationship with Jack Abramoff, Rohrabacher told the news site. This is not Al Capone. He got, how do you say, overwhelmed in the political system. And he had some bad judgments. But as the same time, Jack is a very idealistic person and I will say hes a patriot.
Politico also reported that Abramoffs brother, Robert Abramoff, once paid Rohrabacher $10,000 to option a screenplay called Baja that the congressman wrote in 1989. A film has not been produced.
Over the last half of 2016, Madeleine Spencer started noticing the signs as she went about her work at the Santa Ana Business Council.
The founder of the Los Angeles Lit Crawl, which brings together writers and readers in a cluster of venues in North Hollywood, called her up to see if there might be interest in doing the same in downtown Santa Ana. Then a writer on the citys arts commission excitedly endorsed that idea.
The the school district put money into a plan to cultivate the literary arts around that time, Spencer said, and when a group of paralegals held a big meeting in the downtown Santa Ana arts district she met one of its members, a writer who also hosts a podcast on women writers, and they started kicking around the idea, too.
By the time a journalist working on a piece on the state of the literary arts in Orange County contacted Spencer in the fall all of these disparate threads of plot and character were poised to come together. An ad hoc committee met. A plan was hatched.
And on Saturday, the first-hopefully-annual Boca de Oro Mouth of Gold Arts and Literary Fringe Festival will take place with more than 100 novelists, poets, short-story writers, and advocates of literature on panels held in 15 or more locations clustered in downtown Santa Ana.
Were always looking for things that have buzz, Spencer said of the business council, though the statement could stand for lovers of art and literature, too. Those were the shaping figures, or voices, that made me go, OK, I think theres some buzz here. Theres enough here.
On Saturday, she and the other organizers hope youll come downtown between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m. and check events that include an open mic poetry reading at the Gypsy Den restaurant, panels on incarceration and the arts at the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art, readings by the authors of the brand-new anthology Orange County: A Literary Field Guide and many more.
Its all free except for a concert by Perla Batalla, who for years sang backing vocals with the late Leonard Cohen, and who on Saturday will perform his songs in English and Spanish and share stories about this most literary songwriter. The monthly downtown Santa Ana Artwalk will be happening at the same time. Some of the venues will have food and drink for sale.
And perhaps best of all, you can celebrate what organizers hope will signal a new chapter in the emergence of Orange County as a center of literature, writing, reading and community.
Ive always had the belief that Orange County produces more artists, more writers, more performers than anyplace else in the country, says Kevin Staniec, an arts advocate, author and publisher whose soon-to-open 1888 Center in Orange will be the countys first literary arts center. I believe that theres so much happening in Orange County, and sometimes all we need is a thread to pull us all together.
Boca de Oro is one of those things, says Staniec, who will take part in a panel called Cultural Revolution: Supporting Community With Creativity, alongside Logan Crow, director of the Frida Cinema, and Ryan Gattis, a novelist who teaches at Chapman University and is on the 1888 Center board.
Conrad Romo is the Los Angeles Lit Crawl founder who contacted Spencer, and in addition to that annual event and his own poetry and short stories, hes run Tongue and Groove, a monthly celebration of writing and music, for 13 years, mostly in L.A. but in recent years occasionally in Orange County, too.
I think there are a number of people who are interested in the literary arts, Romo says. My feeling is that they would be kind of hungry for something like this.
Hes excited that Boca de Oro has a little bit from practically every genre on offer, from literary novelists to science fiction writers, poets to programs for youth.
Theres different factions, Romo says of the way literature and literary events often divide along sharp lines. Some people like poetry and others like storytelling and sometimes those crowds dont mix. So were hoping there might be some cross-pollination.
I like kind of taking the chance of just popping into a few different readings and the fact that everythings going to be in close proximity, he says. That kind of opens it up. One could kind of go 15 minutes at one and 20 minutes at another. Thats perfectly fine.
Most fans have heard that Logan, Foxs third spinoff movie featuring Wolverine, is supposedly Hugh Jackmans final appearance as the most popular X-Man of all. But what about Professor X, the wheelchair-bound leader of the mutant hero group who has long been a father figure to the semi-immortal, rage-fueled slasher? That other series stalwart, Patrick Stewart, whos played the older version of the powerful telepath in six previous movies, is the only major franchise mainstay to share the screen with Jackman in Logan.
And much as this second R-rated, ultrabrutal X movie (Deadpool, though kind of its own thing, counts as the first R of Foxs Marvel mutant properties) feels like a Wolverine send-off, Professor Xaviers fate seems decided in it as well.
But dont be so sure about that, Stewart cautions.
I cannot say, the 76-year-old English Shakespearean says of whether well see him as Charles again. Its entirely out of my control. It lies in the hands of Marvel and Fox. And you will understand, I have already been vaporized three movies ago! I mean, Jean Grey, she just fragmented me. Ive got to tell you, that was an uncomfortable experience. But here I am, still upright, speaking full sentences and apparently not vaporized at all.
Well, not entirely the case, at least at the start of Logan, which takes its name from Wolverines alter ego. The film is set in 2029, after most mutants have apparently died and new ones havent emerged for a decade. Logan long ago chucked the costume and is working on the down-low as a limousine driver in El Paso, Texas. Its taking a lot longer for his body to heal from wounds these days, and those adamantium claws arent popping out with the alacrity that they used to.
Thats nothing, though, compared to whats happened to the aged Xavier. Suffering from brain seizures and intermittent dementia, hes losing control of his formidable psychic powers and has become a threat to mere Homo sapiens. Logan keeps the professor at a remote, abandoned smelter in the Mexican desert and tries to bring his mentor enough medicine to keep him harmless and lucid.
I realized that there was something quite unexpected going on in this movie, Stewart says, about his first reading of the Logan script. It was so bizarre and unexpected and inexplicable that I was immediately grabbed. For me, over the years, diversity and contrast has always been high on my list of why I would want to do a piece of work as opposed to anything else. And I very quickly realized that this Charles Xavier was not completely the Charles Xavier of the other movies.
And I liked what I was reading very much, adds Stewart, who started in repertory theater and still hits the stage regularly (often, lately, opposite X movies co-star Ian McKellan), and whose television work ranges from the recent comedy Blunt Talk to Enterprise Capt. Jean-Luc Picard on Star Trek: The Next Generation to a galaxy of cartoon voices and The Lion in Winters King Henry II.
Especially the wacky nature of Charles language, one could say the obscenity of his language, which was not something you would expect to have heard from that smooth, cool intellectual wed seen sitting in his wheelchair over the years.
Soon, Logan finds himself also in charge of a little Mexican girl, Laura (movie newcomer Dafne Keen). She doesnt talk and has a ferocity reminiscent of his own, not to mention her own adamantium extensions. Shes being chased by some really bad paramilitary types and wants to go to North Dakota. Xavier intuits that if this powerful creature isnt exactly a mutant, shes something he and the reluctant Logan must protect as they would any other X-child.
So the three of them hit the road.
I was happy to spend so much time with Hugh, who over the years has become a good friend and a much-admired colleague, Stewart says. And it was intriguing to share this very grown-up relationship with a child. Perhaps the biggest challenge was understanding and embracing the fact that the familial aspect of all this had been turned right around. From the very beginning, Xavier had a protective feeling about Logan. He brought him into the X-Men and tried in every way to settle him down, take care of him and advise him, not always successfully.
But now, we see that the parent is Logan. Charles would not survive if it were not for Logan. So the roles are reversed for a while. As the movie progresses and Charles gets a little more control over his behavior, we see that the essential father figure that Charles had been is still there. He is still trying to help Logan find the least self-destructive way through his life. And when Laura appears on the scene, Charles now has another individual to care for.
Despite the little girls feral nature and the movies spasms of bloody violence, the trio had a pretty good time filming last June along the roads of Louisiana. Uncomfortable, but good.
Dafne was a committed, brave child who was willing to just let everything go in creating the life of this creature, Stewart says. Then I discovered she was also adorable and funny and smart and fabulously bilingual. [Keen is the daughter of English and Spanish actors.] Hugh and she and I became a little compact unit in the movie, particularly in the last two or three weeks that I was working. We spent those weeks in a car that had minimum air conditioning during a hot summer and Ive got to tell you that air conditioning didnt reach the back seat! I looked like I was in pain? There was no acting involved there.
That diversity thing Stewart loves so much will be evident in his upcoming features: Wilde Wedding, a rare romantic comedy for the actor; and the animated Emoji Movie, in which the distinguished thespian lends his stentorian voice to the online icon for Poop much, he reports, to his grandchildrens delight.
But another X movie? Well, even Jackman has recently hinted that, if the mutants ever leave Fox for Disneys Marvel Cinematic Universe, hed consider Wolverining again.
So who can tell? Stewart says. In a world of superheroes and studio franchises, nothing can be said to be forever.
Two years of morning protests and bullhorns. Welcome to Ocean Boulevard in Long Beach, where labor organizers from UNITE HERE Local 11 Los Angeles most aggressive union have set up shop in hope of unionizing two local hotels.
On many mornings, local residents are woken at 7 a.m. by protesters shouting into bullhorns, the loud noises echoing between hotels and high-rises. The police department receives regular complaints, but union activists continue to ring in the beautiful California sunrise with screams and street theater.
Its a harsh illustration of the growing disconnect between Local 11 a union supposedly fighting for improved living standards and those living in the Los Angeles metro area, who are frustrated by the unions aggressive tactics.
[I]ts really loud and annoying, claims one Long Beach resident in an interview with the Long Beach Business Journal. The [person] I was most concerned about is my neighbor, who is a surgical nurse working graveyard, says another resident. Shes trying to rest, and she cant sleep while this is going on. And shes got to get up, work the graveyard shift, and take care of patients.
But Local 11 marches on, chasing union dues the lifeblood of any union at the expense of the public interest. In nearby Santa Monica, known for its picturesque ocean views, Local 11 regularly picketed the Shore Hotel last year, holding daily protests with its trademark bullhorns in hand. Intent on unionizing the hotels employees, the union allegedly planted four organizers among the hotel staff who spent their time trying to heighten tensions and recruit workers, an oft-used union tactic called salting.
According to Charlie Virzi, a concierge at the hotel, union tactics were not only hurting our business, but the tourism in Santa Monica. We receive[d] countless reviews from guests saying they will not return to Santa Monica.
Its a nuisance for a warm-weather economy reliant on tourism. Santa Monica receives more than 8 million visitors annually, roughly half of them from outside of the U.S. These tourists generate about $1.8 billion in annual revenue for the local economy, supporting 13,500 jobs including hotel jobs.
But if theyre not union hotel jobs, Local 11 doesnt seem to care. When Santa Monicas City Council was examining the citys noise ordinance last year, the union sent a letter to then-Mayor Tony Vasquez defending its bad behavior at non-union competitors. The union claimed that prohibiting bullhorns and early-morning rallies inhibits the rights of Santa Monicans to hear diverse points of view.
Thats right: Peace and quiet inhibit the rights of Californians.
More recently, a Local 11 official argued that Santa Monica developments should be allowed to exceed the citys 84-foot height limit. The Santa Monica Lookout reported on outreach from city officials, which found that a majority of Santa Monica residents do not want projects to exceed the 84-foot height limit. Local 11 dismissed the voice of the people, and assured the council that their own members felt differently.
But a recent minimum wage debacle raises questions on whether Local 11 really understands its members. When the Los Angeles City Council voted to implement a hotel-specific minimum wage, Local 11 won an exemption for unionized hotels. This prevents dues-paying UNITE HERE workers from earning the same hourly wage as nonunion hotel employees doing the same work. Union members pay hundreds of dollars in dues per year, only to make less than nonunion employees.
In the words of Alicia Yale, a hotel waitress: Its completely upside-down. They want to pay us less than the minimum wage.
Local 11 justified the exemption as a long-term ploy to increase unionization, claiming it might help hotels be less resistant to unionization. In other words, the union was sacrificing worker pay to increase revenue, despite its commitment to improved living standards and the communitys wishes.
How ironic that a union called UNITE HERE would become Californias most divisive union.
Michael Saltsman is research director at the Employment Policies Institute, which receives support from businesses, foundations and individuals.
Organizers of the Make America Great Again march and rally are moving the March 25 event in support of President Donald Trump to Huntington Beach from their original location in Costa Mesa.
The march in support of the president, military, first responders and other causes coincides with similar events planned nationally on the same day, organizers said in a press release on the groups Facebook page.
It will be held at the same time, noon to 3 p.m., but at Bolsa Chica State Beach, they said.
Organizer Jennifer Sterling, of Laguna Beach, said the event was about unity and coming together.
We need healing and we need building, she said. We want to have a dialogue.
State Parks Capt. Kevin Pearsall said the group has a permit to do the walk.
Pearsall said beyond adding extra staffing and coordinating with Huntington Beach police, the park is hoping for a peaceful event.
Organizers plan to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, sing the National Anthem and collect donations for veterans, Sterling said.
Its being unbelievably well-received, Sterling said. Well be walking along the bike path waving American flags. It will be a beautiful sight to see.
State officials and event organizers said they are aware of past conflicts between pro-Trump march participants and protesters.
The initial plan to hold the event in Costa Mesa prompted the OC Fair & Event Center to cancel several planned events and shut down its operations on the weekend of March 25-26. Officials said they had safety concerns after a pro-Trump campaign rally in April at the Pacific Amphitheatre turned violent when Trump supporters and anti-Trump protesters clashed.
Fairgrounds officials still plan to keep the property closed during the weekend of the march, regardless of the new location, Terry Moore, communications director for the Fair & Event Center, said Thursday.
As of Thursday, 1,700 people had expressed interest in attending the march and 991 said they were going, according to the Southern California MAGA March Facebook page. However, Sterling said she was expecting 3,000 or more participants.
Organizers plan to start the march at the beach area near Warner Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway and walk along a three-mile stretch in a well-contained area, Pearsall said.
We dont see any issues, he said.
Contact the writer: CONTACT THE WRITER714-796-7964gmellen@ocregister.com
SANTA ANA A 32-year-old Santa Maria man was convicted of first-degree murder on Friday for killing his mother and dumping her body in La Habra.
An Orange County Superior Court jury deliberated for about two days before finding Gabriel Antonio Espinoza guilty in the death of his mother, 58-year-old Emma Posadas-Espinoza. Her body had been found covered in leaves behind a carport in La Habra on July 21, 2014.
He faces 25 years to life in prison when he returns to court for sentencing on June 2.
The jury did not find true the allegation that Espinoza killed his mother for financial gain, which had been added to his initial charge of murder.
In the trial, Senior Deputy District Attorney Troy Pino argued Espinoza killed his estranged mother so he could collect more than $429,000 from her savings and life insurance policy.
Pino said Espinoza crept into his mothers bedroom in Lompoc while she was sleeping and squeezed the life out of her. Her caused of death was asphyxiation by chest compression.
Pino said Espinoza loaded his mothers body into the trunk of her new Acura and then dumped the body near an apartment complex in La Habra where he used to live.
Espinozas defense attorney, Frederick Fascenelli, had argued there was no evidence that Espinoza wanted to kill is mother for money.
Contact the writer: kpuente@ocregister.com
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia A North Korean diplomat suggested on Thursday that Kim Jong Nam, the estranged half brother of the countrys leader, died of heart failure despite Malaysias finding that he was killed by a banned nerve agent.
The diplomat, Ri Tong Il, who is leading a delegation to Malaysia, made the surprising assertion in Kuala Lumpur, the capital, during a visit aimed at repairing a diplomatic breach over the death. He said Kim had a history of heart disease and high blood pressure for which he needed medication.
But while asserting the cause of Kims death, without providing any evidence, he stood by his countrys refusal to acknowledge that the victim was the half brother of Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, instead calling him by the name Kim Chol, which South Korean officials have said is an alias.
He also called on Malaysia to provide samples of the VX nerve agent that the police say they found on the body to the international organization charged with carrying out the global treaty that bans the use of chemical weapons.
If it is true that it was used, he told reporters, then the samples should be sent to the office of the group, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, for examination.
South Korea has accused the North of organizing the killing, and the Malaysian police have identified seven North Korean men they would like to question. North Korea has refused to allow the police to interview two of the suspects, who are said to have taken refuge at the embassy where Ri addressed reporters.
Four others are believed to have returned to North Korea, and the location of the last one is unknown. An eighth, the only North Korean citizen in Malaysian custody, is expected to be released for lack of evidence and deported, according to news reports.
But the group declined to say whether Malaysia had provided it with samples for independent testing. Malaysian officials have also declined to comment.
Its been a busy month for Carlos Garcia de Albaperhaps the busiest in his 30-year career in the Mexican diplomatic corps.
As the Mexican consul general in Los Angeles, Garcia de Alba is at the front lines of his countrys response to President Donald Trumps new immigration policies, overseeing the largest Mexican consulate in the United States, as well as a regional consular network responsible for an estimated 2.3 million Mexican citizens living in Southern California.
Like other Mexican consulates across the country--including in Santa Ana and San Bernardinothe L.A. outpost has been flooded with calls and visits since Trumps inauguration. Mexican citizens are scrambling to renew passports, register their children for citizenship, and get legal advice in preparation for what their government has called the new reality of living as a foreigner in the United States.
Now, with new executive orders that vastly expand who is considered a priority for deportation and reports of widespread immigration raids, Mexicans across Southern Californiaparticularly those living here illegallyare increasingly on edge.
The Southern California News Group spoke with Garcia de Alba this week to find out more about what the consulate is doing to quell the panic, and cope with the dramatic policy changes that have left U.S-Mexico relations at their lowest point in years.
What has the atmosphere at the consulate been like these past few weeks?
Everyday is very busy, complicated. Theres a lot of uncertainty. Lots of doubts, lots of work, lots of pressure. In the case of the undocumented peopleand actually even among those who are documented there is a lot of fear. I dont remember, in my many years in diplomacy, there being something like this. There is a lot of uncertaintyits challenging.
But we just need to keep working, as always, to protect the rights of our nationals living here. Because, frankly, we feel like there is a sentiment against Mexico and Mexicans. So for the consul of Mexico, its not easy times. We respect that we dont have a right to interfere with sovereign decisions that the American government makes. But it doesnt mean that we are happy.
Did you expect the new administration to implement its policy changes so quickly?
Not this fast. Of course, it was quite obvious that there would be a big change in American policy, and in the bilateral relationship with Mexico. It was a big part of the debate during the whole presidential campaign.
So yes, I was expecting there would be big change in many senses, but not that fast.
As the consul general in Los Angeles, whats your role in dealing with these changes?
To be close to the community, and to defend the rights of Mexicans. Thats my main concern. To make sure that their human rights are respected: that if they are arrested, they get fair, due process, and that if they are deported, they are deported in a civil way.
I want to be close to my people, to be a reliable source of information for my people. And my job now is to do my best to convince them to be cautious, but also not to panic. Its a very, very tiny line.
Are you concerned that the recent immigration enforcement actions are part of a new trend under this administration?
In the case of L.A., we have had roughly 150 or 160 arrested nationals since the inauguration of President Donald Trump. Thats actually even lower than President Obamas standards.
But the way these raids have been done is different. From the fact that the president tweets about it, to all of the publicity that the raids have been getting in the mediain the past, it hasnt been like that. So it is a change in the way of doing things, not in the numbers.
Do you think the attention that the raids have gotten, both from politicians and in the press, is helpful? Or is it unproductive?
Both. Its productive because people are aware. It gives them time to understand their rights.
But it is not helpful because there is fear, and there is clearly an exaggeration of the facts. Some media talk about massive raids, everywhere, 24 hours a day, and thats not the case. That creates panic and psychosis.
When people are under pressure like that, they start making bad decisions. They stop sending their children to school. They stop going to the park on the weekends. In some cases, they decide that they wont go to work. And thats not good.
Are you angry about whats been said about immigrants, and specifically Mexicans, over the last year?
No. Im not angry. Im frustrated because this is not fair. What is happening to the Mexicans in this time is not fair. They came here to help, to do their best, and they are contributing a lot to this country on a daily basis.
Mexicans are hard workers, they are honest peopleI dont accept the stereotypes that say that Mexicans are bad peoples, rapists. Those things are not true. So I feel very frustrated because what is being said about Mexicans is very unfair.
But I have also met a lot of Americans in these days who have been very kind to the Mexican people, to the consulate, to myself. People who say, I am so sorry about this situation. How can I can I help? What can I do? So I have felt the warmth of the American people in these weeks.
Whats the message that you want to send to Mexican citizens here who are concerned about deportations?
They need to be very well-informed, they need to protect themselves, know their rights. And the best ally they have is the Mexican consulate.
Already, we have seen more contact. Since Trumps inauguration, there has been a 30 percent increase in daily calls to the consulate, and a 30 percent increase in requests for birth certificates.
Immigration is only one part of the U.S.-Mexico relationship. Are you concerned about other potential changes, say, on trade or economic policy?
Were also concerned about the future of NAFTA, but that will be a second step. In the case of immigration and the wall, there are already executive orders. In the case of NAFTA, there is not a clear position yet on the administrations agenda. And there are three countries involved, so it will be a different story.
In the end, the main concern is the human beings. Trade is important, but the most important and sensitive thing is the people.
But at the same time, the relationship between Mexico and Los Angeles is so complex. So even in these difficult times, we have to keep working on the agenda we have with the city of Los Angeles. The Mayor [Eric Garcetti] has declared 2017 the Year of Mexico in L.A. and we have a whole calendar of events planned on cultural promotion, business promotion. Its a special year.
From the iconic blimp hangars in Tustin to the India Mart in Orange, very familiar locations will be apparent to many theatergoers who see South Coast Repertorys West Coast premiere of the play Orange.
Written by Aditi Brennan Kapil, the coming-of-age play will be presented on the Julianne Argyros Stage with previews starting Sunday and regular performances running March 11-26. Kapil wrote the play on commission through SCRs CrossRoads program, in which the Time Warner Foundation commissions playwrights to stay in Orange County and experience its cultural diversity.
During her five-day residency in 2013, Kapil took a short road trip through the local cities Huntington Beach, Orange, Tustin and San Juan Capistrano, to name a few that inspired her to base the plays settings on the places she saw.
I had the most fun and random time exploring the areas and meeting with local people and organizations, Kapil said. I had a blank slate and ended up writing something incredibly personal that I did not intend to write and for really specific metaphorical reasons, I knew it had to take place in Orange County.
The story follows Leela (played by Pia Shah), a teenager from India who is on the autism spectrum. When she and her mother fly from India to attend a family wedding in Orange County, Leelas rebel cousin and boyfriend decide to ditch the wedding for a nightlong road trip to search of the perfect orange and take Leela with them.
Director Jessica Kubzansky, who also directed SCRs Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing and The Stinky Cheese Man, said she has always been a fan of Kapils writing and was thrilled to work with her.
Aditi has a rich, unique grasp of character; she captures a complex story in an action-adventure thrill ride which, for me, was an exciting thing to tackle, said Kubzansky.
Leelas autism is presented through her interactions with her cousins and people she meets on her road trip all of the male characters are played by Karthik Srinivasan and female characters are played by Anjali Bhimani. The play is seen through Leelas eyes by drawings in her journal, which are projected on a large screen for the audience to see.
Her drawings start out very simple, but as we get more inside of her head and her experience, they become more elaborate, Kubzansky said. One of my favorite parts about the play is its not about autism, but who this woman is, learning to stand on her own two feet, familial relations, and all these other things that are important.
Kapil, who is of Bulgarian and Indian descent, said there is a strong cultural aspect of the play as well. During her exploration, she discovered there was an abundance of wedding photographers in Orange County, so she felt it would be appropriate for the story to initially take place at an Indian wedding.
During her residency, Kapil said, she also explored the scene at a Flaming Lips concert at the OC Fair, to connect with the music culture and frame her teenage characters. She also visited beaches, including attending the U.S. Open of Surfing competition in Huntington Beach, to intertwine the beach culture into the story line.
The one-act, 90-minute play is described as lighthearted, with a mix of comedy and emotional drama. Since there are only three actors, two of whom play numerous characters with costume changes, Kubzansky said she feels very blessed to have found Shah, Srinivasan and Bhimani to take on the challenging roles.
This is one of the greatest combinations of actors Ive ever worked with. They play everyone, from the parents to the teenagers to the people in the grocery store; and since it has a lot of comedy, they have to have great timing and be able to age up and age down, Kubzansky said.
The play had its world premiere at the Mixed Blood Theatre in Minneapolis in November. Kapil said she received great feedback from theatergoers.
Audience members who have someone who has autism in their lives have come to me and said the play has altered the way they engage with and understand them, so thats really cool, said Kapil.
But its also about that gulf between childhood and adulthood. Its a very universal story by way of an alternative mind that allows you to see and experience something weve all been through, but see it cracked open differently.
Contact the writer: jmoe@ocregister.com
WASHINGTON The United States conducted airstrikes overnight on Thursday against several targets suspected of belonging to al-Qaida across south-central Yemen, according to U.S. and Yemeni military officials, the first U.S. attacks in the country since an ill-fated Special Operations raid in January.
The coordinated series of attacks against al-Qaida militants occurred in three Yemeni provinces that have been suspected of being the site of terrorist activity Abyan, Shabwa and Baydha according to the Pentagon.
It was not immediately clear if the strikes were conducted against targets that were identified using information collected from the January raid that left one member of the Navys SEAL Team 6 dead and three others wounded, and that killed about two dozen civilians.
Capt. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman, said on Thursday that more than 20 strikes were conducted in partnership with the government of Yemen and were coordinated with President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi. He said the attacks targeted al-Qaida militants, equipment and infrastructure.
The mention that the strikes were done in partnership with Hadis government is notable because he had withdrawn permission for the United States to conduct Special Operations ground missions, a decision prompted by anger at the civilian casualties incurred in the January raid.
Computers and cellphones seized during that raid offered clues about attacks al-Qaida could carry out in the future, including insights into new types of hidden explosives the group is making and new training tactics for militants, U.S. officials said.
But it is still unclear how much the information advances the militarys knowledge of the plans and future operations of al-Qaidas branch in Yemen, and some intelligence and congressional officials have questioned how significant the information analyzed so far really is.
There are obvious contradictions about the relative value of intelligence, said Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., of the Intelligence Committee, who added in an interview this week that she would be seeking more explanations from intelligence officials.
Local news media in Yemen reported that at least three people suspected of being al-Qaida members were killed in the countrys southeastern province of Shabwa. Residents near the scene in the Saeid region in Shabwa said the airstrike destroyed a house used by al-Qaida operatives.
The fight against President Donald Trumps executive orders to turn away refugees, deport unauthorized immigrants and build a wall along the Mexican border is about to escalate in many U.S. churches.
A broad network of 37 Protestant and Orthodox Christian denominations will announce on Friday a campaign to mobilize its congregants some 30 million Americans in all to lobby the president and members of Congress to rescind the executive orders.
In a declaration hammered out over the last month, church leaders call the orders unjust and immoral and say they run counter to the values we as people of faith hold dear: to welcome the stranger and assist those most in need.
It is imperative that we speak out against the notion that refugees are a threat to our safety, the declaration adds. They are not.
The presidents Jan. 27 executive order, which he called necessary for national security, barred people from seven majority-Muslim countries from entering the country for 90 days, stopped refugee admissions for 120 days and banned refugees from Syria indefinitely. The White House is expected to issue a revised order very soon.
American Christians have been divided over Trumps order, according to a poll released last month by the Pew Research Center. White evangelical Protestants supported the order by more than 3-to-1, the poll showed, while white mainline Protestants supported it by a slim margin (50-47 percent), and 3 in 5 Catholics opposed it.
The new campaign is being organized by the Orthodox and mainline Protestant churches affiliated with the National Council of Churches and Church World Service, a charity that resettles refugees.
It calls on congregants and pastors to appeal to their elected officials, sign poster-size copies of the declaration displayed in their houses of worship, dedicate one Sunday in the next three months to honor refugees and immigrants, and raise $1 million to support them.
Hundreds of churches and synagogues across the country have already offered to provide sanctuary or other support to undocumented immigrants in fear of deportation.
And other faith-based resettlement agencies have spoken out against the refugee and travel ban, including World Relief, an evangelical agency; HIAS, a Jewish group; and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.
The presidents executive order gave preference to refugees who are Christians and other religious minorities, but the declaration opposes that move, saying it actually places them at greater risk in some countries.
This is so counterproductive, said Erol Kekic, executive director of the immigration and refugee program at Church World Service. It makes Christians and minorities in those countries an even bigger target, because the perception is already that they receive preferential treatment. And singling them out even more would probably not help.
UNITED NATIONS Some of Europes most successful far-right politicians are women. There is Marine Le Pen of France, of course. But also Frauke Petry of Germany, Siv Jensen of Norway and Pia Kjaersgaard of Denmark, who is something of a pioneer in the new wave of anti-immigrant populism sweeping through Europe.
They are leading, or have recently led, what were once fringe parties pushing their extremist views to the political mainstream and seeking to appeal to those who once eschewed their parties: female voters.
Some of them are also eyeing their countrys highest office. Le Pen is vying to be president of France in elections scheduled to start in April, and if she wins an expected runoff in May (a long shot, admittedly) she could be the first far-right leader to be directly elected as a European head of state.
Gender issues dont much get the attention of far-right parties, whether led by men or women. The parties dont support gender quotas in politics, as many centrist and left parties do, nor do they campaign on issues like equal pay. Abortion and gay rights are not lightning rod political issues for conservatives as they are in the United States, so they tend not to be ideological tinder in Europe.
Gender is a useful wedge, though, when it comes to highlighting what has become one of their main planks: a critique of immigration, particularly from the Muslim world. The European far right has long seized on the hijab as a symbol of patriarchy; more recently it has said that attacks on gays and women in Muslim enclaves are evidence of the Islamic threat to European values.
Le Pen, in an opinion essay published in a French daily, LOpinion, used the mass sexual attacks in Cologne, Germany, on New Years Eve in 2015 to call for a referendum on immigration to France. I am scared that the migrant crisis signals the beginning of the end of womens rights, she wrote. Le Pen is also making a bid to woo gay voters, whom her father, the partys founder, once openly berated.
Ruth Wodak, a professor at Lancaster University in Britain, called Le Pens appeals on gender issues opportunistic.
They defend our women against harassment by foreigners strangers, migrants, Muslim men, said Wodak, an editor of The Politics of Fear: What Right-Wing Populist Discourses Mean, a collection of essays. However, they never spoke out against sexual harassment before.
How unusual is it for a woman to lead a nativist party? About as unusual as it is for a woman to head any political party. While some are part of political dynasties, as in the case of Le Pen, others are self-made.
Petry, a former chemist and businesswoman, ousted a former Europe-focused leader of the Alternative for Germany and turned it into a squarely nationalist party. Her platform for the national elections scheduled for this fall takes aim at foreigners and at the German chancellor, Angela Merkel, for embracing them.
Kjaersgaard, one of the earliest forerunners of the European far right, established the Danish Peoples Party in 1995 and turned what were once considered fringe, racist ideas about restricting immigration into a potent political force.
Her party has been crucial in supporting a minority government and has shaped policy as a result. Kjaersgaard is now the speaker of the Danish parliament, though no longer the party leader.
Jensen pushed her anti-immigrant Progress Party into a coalition government in Norway for the first time and snagged for herself an influential cabinet post as finance minister. She describes herself as a free-market conservative in the Thatcherite tradition. But she too has seized on fears of Islam, warning in a widely criticized 2009 speech about the sneaking Islamization of European society.
Female leaders in Europe span the ideological spectrum. Two of the Continents most powerful leaders, Merkel of Germany and Theresa May of Britain, are on opposite sides of Britains plan to leave the European Union.
Does the far right draw female voters? Not so much, but they are beginning to.
One study, carried out across 17 countries by Swedish and Dutch scholars and published in late 2015 in an academic journal called Patterns of Prejudice, found women less likely than men to vote for what the study called the populist radical right but not because women were against the ideology.
Men are neither more nativist nor authoritarian, compared to women, the study found, nor do women evince less discontent with their governments. Women by and large were deterred from voting for the radical right by other things, including the populist rights political style, occasional association with historic violence, stigmatization by parts of the elite and the general public in other words, their outlier-ness.
Thats where the gender of the leader can make a positive difference for the far right, said Cas Mudde, a Dutch scholar of the European far right.
In the media, he argued, male leaders are often cast as power-hungry zealots. Female politicians are represented as softer, said Mudde, who teaches at the University of Georgia. For a radical right politician it can be actually very good.
Sometimes, gender can make a difference in who wins. In Austria late last year, a larger share of women and a significantly larger share of young, educated women voted for the leftist party, helping to defeat the incumbent nativist leader. Both parties candidates were men.
Le Pens prospects in the French polls this spring will depend significantly on her ability to woo women, just as the success of far-right parties on the Continent more broadly will rest on their ability to bridge the gender gap.
Consider Nonna Mayers research on the National Fronts record.
In 2002, when it was headed by Le Pens firebrand, Holocaust-denying father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, the party won a far larger share of mens votes than womens. In 2012, by the time Marine Le Pen took over the party, the gender gap had virtually vanished, only to return again in midterm polls since then.
Mayer, a political scientist, said the gender gap for populist right wing parties could vary from one country to another and from one election to the next. For Le Pen, she said, the test will be the coming presidential election.
MANILA Philippines Human Rights Watch said on Thursday that President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines may have committed crimes against humanity by inciting killings during his bloody anti-drug campaign.
Thousands of people have been killed by the police or by vigilantes since Duterte became president in June, and rights groups say the police may have ordered the extrajudicial killings of drug dealers and users, a charge that officials have denied.
In a report released on Thursday, Human Rights Watch examined 32 deaths from October to January, all involving the Philippine National Police. Police reports asserted that officers had committed the killings in self-defense, but witnesses characterized them as coldblooded murders of unarmed drug suspects in custody, the rights groups study said.
We think theres a very strong case to be made in front of the ICC that crimes against humanity have been committed, Elaine Pearson, the Australia director at Human Rights Watch, said by telephone, referring to the International Criminal Court. She said the first step should be parallel investigations into Dutertes anti-drug campaign by the United Nations and by the Philippine Justice Department.
In a statement on Thursday, Ernesto Abella, a spokesman for Duterte, said the reports allegations were baseless.
A war on criminality is not a war on humanity, he said. On the contrary, it is a war precisely to protect humanity from a modern-day evil. To say otherwise is to undermine societys legitimate desire to be free from fear and to pander to the interests of the criminals.
The Philippines is a member of the International Criminal Court. In October, the courts chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, said in a statement that she was deeply concerned about reports of extrajudicial killings in the country.
But Romel Bagares, a rights lawyer at the Center for International Law in Manila, said in an interview on Thursday that Philippine law appears to grant the president immunity from prosecution while in office.
It is unlikely that Duterte would face domestic prosecution while president. His allies control both houses of Congress, and his justice secretary, Vitaliano Aguirre II, is one of his old fraternity brothers.
Nearly 21 months before the 2018 mid-term election, a second Democrat has jumped in the race to challenge Republican Rep. Dana Rohrabacher.
Harley Rouda, a Laguna Beach businessman, announced Thursday hed be making his first bid for elected office. The 55-year old comes out of the gates with a strong complement of campaign veterans working on his behalf, including consultants Dave Jacobson, Maclen Zilber and Sue Burnside and fundraiser Stephanie Daily Smith, a helped raise money for Hillary Clintons 2016 campaign.
We need new leadership that is willing to put country over party, and put service above self, Rouda said in a statement. We need new leadership that believes in science, climate change, and supports STEM and clean energy. We need new leadership that believes in womens rights, human rights and liberties for all, and for all a better life.
Rouda joins fellow Laguna Beach Democrat Boyd Roberts in the race.
Roberts, a real estate broker, is making impeachment of President Donald Trump the centerpiece of his campaign. Roberts finished last in a field of five in a 2012 school board race and took out papers for a 2014 challenge of Rep. Ken Calvert, R-Corona, but abandoned his campaign before qualifying for the ballot.
Rohrabacher, 69, is serving his 15th term in Congress. Hes recently attracted attention for agreeing with Trump on pursuing friendlier relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, for meeting with French ultra-conservative Marine LePen and for working with disgraced former lobbyist Jack Abramoff in trying to get U.S. cooperation in building an African alliance against the Boko Haram terrorist group.
Rohrabacher won reelection last year by 16-percentage points, but some Democrats believe he is vulnerable because in the district Clinton beat Trump by 1.7 percentage points.
Rouda founded the Real Living real estate brokerage firm. He has an MBA from Ohio State University and a law degree from Capital University Law School.
Rohrabacher said in December that hed probably run for reelection in 2018. Other Republicans interested in the seat are county Supervisor Michelle Steel and former Assemblyman and county GOP chairman Scott Baugh.
Bankrupt Irvine-based retailer Wet Seals intellectual property has been bought for $3 million by Boston-based investment firm Gordon Brothers Brands, according to bankruptcy court documents.
The deal is pending court approval.
Gordon Brothers bought Wet Seals social media profiles, brands, trademarks, domain names, an e-commerce platform and data on 5 million customers.
Gordon Brothers, a liquidation firm, also revives dormant brands it acquires out of bankruptcy, according to Reuters.
Earlier this week Wet Seal received a $1.5 million stalking horse bid from Toronto-based YM Inc. The Gordon Brothers Brands outbid the group.
Wet Seals bankruptcy filing was its second in as many years.
In early February the chain started going out of business sales at its 137 locations.The retailer has stores in Brea, Irvine, Orange and Santa Ana.
Wet Seal was founded 1962 as Lornes and was incorporated as Wet Seal in 1990.
During the heyday of surf-inspired teen fashion, Wet Seal expanded, acquiring roughly 200 Contempo Casuals stores in 1995 from the Neiman Marcus Group. It also developed Arden B, a fashion brand aimed at women in their 20s and 30s. All 54 Arden B stores closed in mid-2014. The stores were then converted to Wet Seal Plus or Wet Seal stores.
The brand has been on an extended decline. In 2013, then based in Foothill Ranch, the company lost $113 million. In the 18 months before its first bankruptcy in 2015, Wet Seal lost 99 percent of its value.
Shortly before filing for Chapter 11 in 2015, the company closed 338 stores, or two-thirds of its U.S. locations and laid off 3,700 employees after a default notice was filed by creditor Hudson Bay Master Fund for around $29 million.
Versa Capital Management bought the retailer that April for $7.5 million in cash and $20 million debtor-in-possession financing.
The company shifted to Irvine in 2016.
Contact the writer: hmadans@ocregister.com or Twitter: @HannahMadans
WASHINGTON Attorney General Jeff Sessions agreed Thursday to recuse himself from any investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. The move came after revelations that Sessions twice spoke with the Russian ambassador during the campaign, a fact that seemingly contradicts sworn statements he made to Congress during his confirmation hearings.
Sessions rejected any suggestion that he tried to mislead anyone about his contacts with the Russian, but added that he should have slowed down and said but I did meet with one Russian official a couple of times.
Some Democrats demanded an investigation into whether Sessions committed perjury.
But perjury is difficult to prove, and experts say Sessions would have a good defense if he needed one.
Some questions and answers about the allegations:
Q. Is this a case of perjury?
A. Thats tough to say. Such a case would likely come down to splitting hairs over what Sessions said under oath, what he believed he was saying, and what he believed he was being asked.
During Sessions confirmation hearing in January, Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., asked the then-Alabama senator what he would do if evidence emerged that anyone from the Trump campaign had been in touch with the Russian government during the 2016 race.
Sessions replied he was not aware of any of those activities and that he himself, sometimes called a campaign surrogate, did not have communications with the Russians.
Franken on Thursday said Sessions response to his query was at best, misleading. House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi of California accused him of lying under oath. House Judiciary Committee Democrats sent a letter to FBI Director James Comey calling for a criminal investigation.
Justice Department spokeswoman Sarah Isgur Flores said Sessions answer was not misleading because he believed he was being asked about communications between Russia and the Trump campaign, not about those he had as a senator.
The disagreement underscores the difficulty in proving someone has committed perjury. Prosecutors must show not only that a person spoke falsely but that he intended to be misleading about an indisputable fact.
Sessions said Thursday said he didnt mean to mislead lawmakers. That is not my intent, he said. That is not correct.
Sessions could reasonably argue he thought he was being asked about his campaign-related contacts as opposed to congressional or diplomatic contacts, said Benjamin Wittes, a senior Brookings Institution fellow.
He may have just screwed up, said Wittes. Its not a crime to be wrong under oath.
An ambiguous question can kill a perjury case, which is why so few materialize from testimony given before Congress.
Lawmakers are not the most precise questioners. Its not like a deposition or grand jury, where a professional prosecutor is asking the questions, said Stanley Brand, a Washington attorney and former House general counsel. Inartful questions and elusive answers. You have to pursue those.
But, as Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer pointed out, Sessions could have corrected the record in the weeks after his confirmation hearing. Sessions said Thursday he would be sending the Senate Judiciary Committee a letter doing that.
Q. Could he be charged with making false statements?
A. Sen. Patrick Leahy, the senior Judiciary Committee Democrat, asked Sessions in a written questionnaire whether he had been in contact with anyone connected to any part of the Russian government about the 2016 election, either before or after Election Day.
Sessions replied with one word: No.
That statement could be examined under a separate false statements statute, which differs from perjury in that it applies to statements that are not made under oath. But prosecutors would still have to prove Sessions knowingly and willfully gave a misleading answer.
Q. What has Sessions himself said about perjury?
A. The House impeached Bill Clinton after he had been accused of lying to a grand jury about his relationship with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. As a senator Sessions voted for conviction on a count of perjury and a count of obstruction. Clinton was acquitted.
It is crucial to our system of justice that we demand the truth, Sessions said after Clintons acquittal in 1998. I fear that an acquittal of this president will weaken the legal system by providing an option for those who consider being less than truthful in court. Whereas the handling of the case against President Nixon clearly strengthened the nations respect for law, justice and truth, the Clinton impeachment may unfortunately have the opposite result.
Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner contributed to this report from New York.
Wise up
Re: Does America have a free-speech problem? [Opinion, Feb. 28]: The founders of our nation thought freedom of speech so vital that it was the first item on the Bill of Rights. As an arbitrator, I am willing, out of respect, to listen to all sides. Hearing those opinions, I can make up my own mind.
For those who choose not to let anyone speak because of a differing ideology or frame of reference, shame on them. For those who choose to disrupt anyones right to speak, through yelling, violence, looting and the like, shame on them. For those who smear others without being factual or use a bias to promote their own agendas, shame on them.
In my world, I will respect anyones freedom to express themselves. I expect the same consideration. I also intend to stay within myself, not have a knee-jerk reaction to what I see and hear, and to have tolerance.
Ed Munson, Brea
Affordable housing
Re: California has to address its housing crisis [Opinion, March 1]: Local elected leaders are acutely aware of the severity of Californias housing affordability crisis and our role in fashioning solutions.
While local governments do not build homes, cities are responsible for planning and land use decisions that allow housing to be built. The League of California Cities is promoting Senate Bill 540, which would streamline the housing development process. Local governments would develop workforce housing zones, identifying and planning where housing will be built in that community. Local governments would conduct enhanced planning, environmental reviews and public engagement at the front end.
Conducting extensive planning, environmental mitigation and public reviews early in the process would streamline the approval process and facilitate more housing construction sooner. The League believes we can promote housing construction without undercutting local control or eliminating local citizen input into local land-use decisions that impact their community.
Carolyn Coleman, executive director, League of California Cities, Sacramento
No rest
Could someone explain why the rest areas between Los Angeles and the Arizona border, both eastbound and westbound, have been closed for the past two months. No work being done, just orange cones guarding the entrance.
Jim Wessling, Lake Forest
WASHINGTON Michael Flynn, then Donald Trumps incoming national security adviser, had a previously undisclosed meeting with the Russian ambassador in December to establish a line of communication between the new administration and the Russian government, the White House said Thursday.
Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law and now a senior adviser, also participated in the meeting at Trump Tower with Flynn and Sergey I. Kislyak, the Russian ambassador. But among Trumps inner circle, it is Flynn who appears to have been the main interlocutor with the Russian envoy the two were in contact during the campaign and the transition, Kislyak and current and former U.S. officials have said.
But the extent and frequency of their contacts remains unclear, and the disclosure of the meeting at Trump Tower adds to the emerging picture of how the relationship between Trumps incoming team and Moscow was evolving to include some of the president-elects most trusted advisers.
The White House has repeatedly sought to play down any connections with Kislyak. Attorney General Jeff Sessions acknowledged this week that he had met twice with him during the campaign, despite previous denials.
The New Yorker reported this week that Kushner had met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in December. Hope Hicks, a White House spokeswoman, confirmed Thursday that Flynn was also at the meeting in response to questions from a New York Times reporter.
It is common and not improper for transition officials to meet with foreign officials. But all meetings between Trump associates and Russians are now significant as the FBI investigates Russian interference in the U.S. election and whether anyone close to Trumps campaign was involved.
The meeting in December came at a crucial time, just as the Obama White House was preparing to sanction Russia and publicly make its case that Moscow had interfered with the 2016 election.
What is becoming clear is that the incoming Trump administration was simultaneously striking a conciliatory pose toward Moscow in a series of meetings and phone calls involving Kislyak.
They generally discussed the relationship and it made sense to establish a line of communication, she said. Jared has had meetings with many other foreign countries and representatives as many as two dozen other foreign countries leaders and representatives.
The Trump Tower meeting lasted 20 minutes, and Kushner has not met since with Kislyak, Hicks said.
When first asked in January about Flynns contacts with Kislyak, the White House said that there had been only a text message and phone call between the men at the end of December, and that both came before the United States imposed sanctions. That was quickly contradicted by news reports.
Flynns story then began changing, and the White House eventually acknowledged the two men had discussed the sanctions and how the two countries could move past the acrimony once Trump was in office.
U.S. officials have also said that there were multiple telephone calls between Flynn and Kislyak on Dec. 29, beginning shortly after Kislyak was summoned to the State Department and informed that, in retaliation for Russian election meddling, the United States was expelling 35 people suspected of being Russian intelligence operatives and imposing other sanctions.
Kislyak was irate and threatened a forceful Russian response, according to people familiar with the exchange. He then left the State Department and called Flynn, the first in a series of calls between the two in the 36 hours that followed.
U.S. intelligence agencies routinely wiretap the phones of Russian diplomats, and transcripts of the calls showed that Flynn urged the Russians not to respond, saying relations would improve once Trump was in office, according to the current and former officials.
Flynns failure to fully disclose the nature of the calls with Kislyak ultimately cost him his job last month after a tumultuous 25 days as national security adviser.
The U.S. government has concluded that Russia intended, at least in part, to help elect Trump through a campaign of cyberattacks, propaganda and misinformation. The government has concluded that Russian operatives were behind the hacking of the Democratic National Committee and John Podesta, chairman of Hillary Clintons presidential campaign.
Current and former U.S. officials have said that Flynn had contacts with Kislyak during the campaign. But few of the specifics of those contacts were known. The Russian ambassador has acknowledged that the two men had known each other since 2013 and were in contact during the campaign.
Its something all diplomats do, Kislyak was quoted as saying by The Washington Post, though he refused to say what subjects he discussed with Flynn.
DOWNEY A sea of hundreds of law enforcement uniforms flanked the family of Keith Wayne Boyer Friday, as colleagues and loved ones shared memories of slain Whittier Police officer.
The ceremony at Calvary Chapel Downey honoring the life of Boyer, Whittiers first officer to die in the line of duty in nearly four decades, was attended by representatives of police departments from around the nation.
Bagpipes played as an honor guard marched inside the chapel carrying Boyers flag-draped casket. Hundreds more crowded outside in the main hallway of the church, watching live footage of the ceremony inside.
Boyer, 53, spent all 27 of his years as a police officer in his hometown of Whittier.
On Feb. 20, after responding to a traffic collision in the Friendly Hills neighborhood of Whittier, Boyer was gunned down by the gang member who had crashed his vehicle.
The alleged killer has been charged with two counts of murder one for Boyer, and another for his cousin, who was shot earlier the same day. Police believe the man also wounded another Whittier police officer who was there with Boyer during the brief gunfight.
On Friday, some speakers eulogized Boyers character, dedication and righteousness. Others shared stories about his playfulness, his love of magic tricks and his skill as a rock n roll drummer.
My dad was goofy. I mean the definition of dad jokes, said Boyers son, Joseph Boyer, who serves in the U.S. Navy. That was him. He was always trying to bring a smile to everyone. And he did. Joseph Boyer thanked the Whittier Police Department and the community for their unwavering support.
Seeing this community, the state of California, and everyone across the nation showing their support has been overwhelming, he said. At the time I should be hurting the most, God has given me peace, knowing my father Keith Wayne Boyer is up there in heaven right now.
Son Joshua Boyer told of his fathers honesty, relaying a story of how he once drove the children back to a grocery store to return a candy bar after discovering one of them had placed it in a grocery bag without paying.
My dad had integrity, he said. What you see is what you get.
Daughter Ashley Sheleretis described her father as the picture of humility.
Both as a cop and as a family man, he had the heart of a servant. He lived to serve others, she said. He always put our needs above his own. He was always there for us.
As the man accused of killing their father awaits the criminal justice process, Boyers children spoke not of anger, but forgiveness.
God has given me the strength to forgive the man who did this, Joshua Boyer said. To me, it is not a man who did this but the evil of this world. This man was just a face. Hes lost. And I pray that one day, he finds himself changed for the better.
Joshua Boyer said it was tempting to give in to anger and judgment, but my father taught me to choose the right thing.
I know it may seem impossible to forgive the man who did this, Joshua Boyer said, but that is why I rely on the strength of God.
Boyer is survived by his parents, Nancy and Don, four children and three grandchildren. Three of his children, Joseph Boyer, Joshua Boyer and Ashley Sheleretis sang Amazing Grace in tribute to their father before their eulogies.
After the honor guard escorted Boyers casket from the church following the ceremony, the procession then travelled to Rose Hill Memorial Park & Mortuary in Whittier for a graveside service.
Boyers funeral followed a public viewing Thursday night at the Whittier Area Community Church that was also attended by thousands. Police from departments around the country among them law enforcement from Chicago, New York, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Utah flew in for both ceremonies.
Retired Whittier police officer Mike Karson, who also spoke at the ceremony Friday, was friends with Keith Boyer for more than 30 years.
They served on the police force together, played in bands together, and even went on a blind date together, he said.
Keith was the kindest, sweetest, gentlest man youll ever meet. He didnt have a mean bone in his body, Karson said. He was the ultimate team player, always helping where he could.
You know, if you work this job long it can change you, Karson said. It can make you callous. It can make you bitter, it can make you numb. Not Keith, he loved his job. The opportunity to help people in his community excited him.
Whittier Police Chief Jeff Piper played in bands with Boyer, too. As he memorialized his friend, he pointed to Boyers expert policing.
In his nearly 27 years as a police officer, Keith remained dedicated to his profession, the chief said. His knowledge was vast and his opinion was sought after.
Hes playing drums with the greatest band imaginable, Piper said as his voice broke with emotion. Godspeed Keith, my brother in law enforcement and my friend.
A week after an off-duty cop manhandled a 13-year-old boy for trespassing and fired his handgun, a man with gray hair cuts across the officers property in Anaheim.
While delving into the deeper issues that affect neighborhoods across 21st century America, I stare wide-eyed in disbelief at the strangers actions and what may come next.
Los Angeles police Officer Kevin Ferguson shocked and scared kids while they were walking home from school on Feb. 22. After the boy apparently stepped on his grass, the four-year patrol officer went after him, grabbed the child by the collar and dragged him across several properties before being pushed down by another kid, tumbling into a hedge and firing his weapon.
The next night, a phalanx of police in riot gear had to be called in to guard the neighborhood from scores of protesters shouting, breaking windows and carrying signs stating, Arrest violent cops.
Vehicles were vandalized and Kill The Cops was reportedly spray-painted on a nearby fence in bold black letters.
Yet neighbors tell me graffiti is nothing new in this seemingly bucolic neighborhood where manicured green lawns spread below shade trees and tidy homes fly the Stars and Stripes.
I cant paint all the kids with the same paintbrush, says an 86-year-old retired educator, who fears his house will be tagged with graffiti if he reveals his name, but some are just problems.
The man allows hes lived in his home for a half-century and has seen enormous change, including apartments going up nearby. But the tipping point, he says, was reached last year when an outdoor skatepark opened just a block away.
I peer past the stranger as he nonchalantly treads on Fergusons lawn, unaware of the history of a man who neighbors say reached his point of zero tolerance only after months of telling kids to stay off his land.
But as an elementary, junior high and high school disgorge hundreds of students, no one moves behind Fergusons windows and no one rushes from the front door to confront the trespasser.
Perhaps Ferguson is at his desk in the Hollywood division after being pulled from the street while the incident is under investigation. Perhaps the strangers gray hair gives him a pass.
Or perhaps the stranger is just plain lucky.
Yes, tensions are tightening in our fast-changing nation.
CHANGING TIMES
Today, Southern California is home to a rich diversity of languages with English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Farsi, Mandarin, Arabic, Tagalog, Korean, Hindi, Chinese transforming communities into global villages.
A few blocks from Fergusons home, Brito Taqueria Restaurant is just down the street from Cali Style Barbershop, which is just down the street from Anaheim Korean Presbyterian Church.
In a nation where family once typically meant an at-home mom and a working dad, single-parent families or parents who both work is the norm.
But cultural and generational changes also create seismic shakes.
As the schools let out, three boys disappear between two homes on Fergusons street and a visitor wonders what they are up to.
One of the teens lives in one of the homes and is what the 20th century called a latch-key kid, someone we now simply call a kid.
Residents along Fergusons street believe the best, easiest and quickest solution for keeping peace is for people adults, students, strangers to treat one another with respect.
Respect, they say, isnt dead. But it sure is in danger.
When people are older, says Mike Martin, a retired carpenter, you respect them.
Martin maintains that while some students are respectful, too many kids feel they are entitled to behave however they choose.
Even at age 61, Martin addresses people he doesnt know as mr., mrs., sir or maam.
KEEPING THE PEACE
Like others in the neighborhood, Richard Bjorklund, a 25-year-resident, says the street changed last year when the skatepark was completed.
He says he and his neighbors have put up with kids straying from the sidewalk for years especially when students walk side-by-side.
When theres three of them, they walk on the grass, says Bjorklund, adding he has 13 grandkids and two great-grandkids. I dont care.
But what happens at the skatepark is a different matter.
When Bjorklund and his wife go on their morning walks, they usually see kids at the park, even during school hours. On one recent morning, some teenagers smoked marijuana.
Nestled between Loara High School, Palm Lane Elementary School and Ball Junior High School, the 5,000-square-foot Palm Lane Skatepark was built with a donation from Disneyland Resort.
Even before it was finished, some in the neighborhood said, not in my backyard. But at least on this day, the park is more like a playground with a trio of 11-year-old boys zooming around on scooters.
Chris Lopez, a 32-year-old audio-visual technician, smiles at the scene and picks up his skateboard. Careful to avoid the boys, he flies across twin embankments shaped like orange slices, grinds a steel rail and flips his board, landing on its wheels.
In many ways, Lopez may seem a world apart from Bjorklund and Martin. But in important ways, hes the same.
Its not the skateparks fault, says Lopez. Its about respect.
Lopez says he has a 13-year-old child and points out hes a generation older than most kids at the park. He says the younger generation doesnt treat people with respect.
After spotting some younger adults drinking beer, Lopez leaves the skatepark in disgust. Im uncomfortable with that stuff. I cant get in the zone.
As the number of students walking home or to the skatepark dwindles to a trickle, a family meets up on Fergusons street and greets a high school senior with so many Mylar balloons they cant fit in a vehicle.
Its Bryanna Alemans 18th birthday and she says she and her friends have moved on from the gunshot incident. But other kids remain wary.
Perhaps the peace officer should consider erecting a fence around his property, say something six inches high, just enough to keep people from wandering on his lawn.
Just dont build a wall, sir.
We all loved eating raw cookie dough when we were children, but apparently a lot of adults like it too. DO Cookie Dough Confections, a small shop in Greenwich Village, New York, sells roughly 1,500 pounds of safe-to-eat raw cookie dough every day to people willing to spend over an hour in line for a chance to relive their childhood fantasies.
28-year-old Kristen Tomlan, the founder and CEO of DO Cookie Dough Confections never outgrew her craving for raw cookie dough. She always wondered why there wasnt a place where people could enjoy their favorite treat, and started contemplating the idea of opening up her own business on a vacation, when she and a few friends stopped at a cookie shop, but instead of buying baked treats, they opted for a tub of raw cookie dough, which they ate in the car.
In 2014, Tomlan almost died after an allergic reaction to an antibiotic left her in a medically induced coma for three weeks, just a couple of months before her wedding. This near-death experience made her realize that life is short and she should follow her dreams. She first started her raw-cookie dough business online, and after getting coverage on a couple of popular websites, she and her husband had to rearrange the furniture in their apartment to accommodate commercial freezers. She soon quit her job in branding to focus solely on her business.
This January, DO Cookie Dough Confections opened as a brick-and-mortar shop in Greenwich Village, and dozens of people have been lining up outside to sample the wide variety of cookie doughs ever since. The shop opens at 10:00 am, but customers start lining up outside as early as 8:30, and Tomlan says she had to to staff up to keep up with demand. I knew I loved cookie dough, and I knew other people loved cookie dough, but I did not expect this, the young entrepreneur told TIME Magazine.
DO Cookie Dough Confections sells raw cookie dough in 13 delicious flavors, including chocolate chip, red velvet, fluffernutter and peanut butter snickerdoodle. The shop offers a variety of gluten-free and vegan options as well, and is constantly working on new recipes.
A scoop of raw cookie dough costs $4 and can be served in either an ice-cream cone or a paper cup. Tomlan says that her dough can be used to bake cookies, but the shop is set up more like an ice-cream parlor, catering to people who prefer to enjoy it raw.
But didnt mommy used to say that eating too much of it can make you sick to your stomach? The FDA confirms that, but only when it comes to home-made dough and batter, due to the possible contamination of ingredients with bacteria that can cause severe gastro-intestinal problems. Commercially available dough, like those sold at DO Cookie Dough Confections and in popular ice-creams is perfectly safe to eat.
To ensure that clients dont have to deal with a tummy ache, Tomlan and her staff only use heat-treated flour and pasteurized eggs, so the dough is perfectly safe to eat raw.
Following the early success of her first brick-and-mortar shop, Kristen Tomlan estimates that DO will sell ten times more cookie dough this year than it did in 2016. Although many investors have expressed interest in her business, she claims to remain self-funded for now.
Photos: DO Cookie Dough Confections/Facebook
If youve ever been to Switzerland you already know that pretty much everything is expensive there, and the fresh mountain air is apparently no exception. Well, most of it is actually free, but if you want to order a liter of Swiss mountain air collected from a secret location in the Alps, youll have to cough up a whopping $167. This is not a joke!
John Green, a British expat living in Basel, Switzerland, is the brains behind Genuine Mountain Air from Switzerland, a fledgling online business that promises to ship fresh, high-quality Swiss air anywhere around the world, if you can afford it. Green claims to collect the air from a secret location near the town of Zermatt, then bottles it up in glass containers, labels it and ships it to buyers.
Described as the ultimate present for the man or woman that has everything, the bottled mountain air also comes with a certificate of authenticity and the exact GPS collection of the place it was collected from.
Photo: Mountain Air from Switzerland
A liter of authentic Swiss mountain air costs $167, but Green realizes that not everyone can afford to pay that much, even though were talking about the best air in the world, so he also has a budget offer on his website, $97 for a 500 ml jar of air. If moneys no object when it comes to fresh air, you can buy a 3-liter container for $247. While the claim that this is the best air in the world is debatable, theres no question that this is the worlds most expensive air.
Green, who hails from Kent, England, is perfectly aware that his offer sounds somewhat crazy, but claims that steep prices are necessary for a sustainable business. There are expenses, weve got to send the stuff out worldwide. I want to try and make it sustainable, I dont want it to be a five minute wonder and make a huge loss. If you try and charge the minimum price you wont be sustainable and youll go out of business, he told The Local. And also dont forget, its Swiss air! Everything in Switzerland is expensive.
Photo: Mountain Air from Switzerland
Apart from making a small profit off the bottled Swiss mountain air, Green also donates 25% of his proceeds to a charity called World Vision, which supports a clean water program in Africa. But even if you deduct this donation from the price, his air is still outrageously expensive.
Green doesnt want to comment too much on the success of his business so far. Its starting slowly, lets put it like that, he said.
Photo: Steinemann/Wikipedia
If youre wondering what opening an expensive jar of Swiss mountain air feels like, but youre too poor to spend $100 or more on one, Green was kind enough to describe the experience on his website, mountainairfromswitzerland.com: As you open your ice cold jar of air (its recommended to chill in the freezer for full effect) you flick the latch open and theres a quick pfsst as the mountain pressure equalizes and you can take a breath of genuine mountain air from Switzerland.
Selling bottled fresh air is definitely not a novel business idea. People in France, Canada, Russia and China have been doing it for years, but their prices are nowhere near as high as this. I guess Switzerland is just special that way.
BizCom Associates is spreading the word on Pinots Palette, which offers art instruction in a relaxing atmosphere and an opportunity to trade in your cell phone for a paintbrush.
Jordan Peele Has A Whole Series Of Horror Films Planned After Get Out Elijah C. Watson Elijah Watson serves as Okayplayer's News & Culture Editor. When
Jordan Peele has four more social thriller films in the making.
In an interview with Business Insider the Get Out director said that his recently-released directorial debut is the first of five social thrillers he plans on creating.
I have four other social thrillers that I want to unveil in the next decadeThe best and scariest monsters in the world are human beings and what we are capable of especially when we get together, Peele said. Ive been working on these premises about these different social demons, these innately human monsters that are woven into the fabric of how we think and how we interact, and each one of my movies is going to be about a different one of these social demons.
Get Out has been both a commercial and critical success, with the film having an impressive $30.5 million debut.
The film offers a commentary on race and racism in America through the lens of horror, something that we found particularly enjoyable about Get Out.
The psychology of blackness is important in Get Out, our very own Elijah Watson writes. We see protagonist Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya) have to address a trauma experienced as a child that he has yet to come to terms with, as well as his ongoing paranoia as he begins to realize that the affluent and white neighborhood his girlfriend Rose Armitages (Allison Williams) family resides in, isnt what it seems to be. He laughs off his worries until he no longer can, the real motives of this secluded community unraveled until the movies end.
This is what makes Get Out fascinating and why it can only work as what it is. Horror often speaks to its audience psychologically and is an extreme (of sorts) in what we often associate with the genre (gore, violence). Here, we see that extreme used to comment on something very real and extreme in its own right the black experience in America.
If you still have not seen Get Out you should definitely do so.
Agricultural News
Soil Health Concept Proposed for Conservation Title of 2018 Farm Bill
South Dakota Senator John Thune has unveiled what he is calling the Soil Health and Income Protection Program (SHIPP), the first of many individual farm bill proposals he will introduce over the next few weeks and months. SHIPP is a new voluntary income protection program for farmers that is designed for today's production agriculture and soil health needs. It would provide participating farmers with a short-term acreage conserving use program, which unlike the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), would require a commitment of only three to five years.
"I've written three farm bills during my time in Congress, having served on both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees," said Thune. "The 2018 farm bill will be my fourth. I know what it takes to get these farm bills across the finish line, and I know the hard-working farmers and ranchers who will be affected once we do. That's why over the next several weeks, I'll be rolling out incremental farm bill proposals that will cover most titles of the farm bill.
"The first proposal I'm unveiling would create a new voluntary farm bill program that would provide a short-term option to conserve acreage while protecting farm income. Unlike CRP, which requires a long-term commitment of 10 to 15 years, SHIPP would require only a three-to-five-year commitment. SHIPP would give farmers the flexibility they need to enroll their least productive acreage in this new program in return for a rental payment and additional crop insurance assistance."
"Sen. Thune's new farm bill program has the potential to be a helpful tool for farmers in today's agriculture economy that has been bogged down by low commodity prices and numerous challenges in meeting the cost of production for most crops," said Scott VanderWal, president of the South Dakota Farm Bureau. "SHIPP provides a common-sense, voluntary alternative to spending money on expensive seed, fertilizer, and chemicals on our least productive land."
SHIPP Highlights:
* Participation is voluntary.
* Operator chooses the land to be enrolled in SHIPP on each Farm Service Agency (FSA) Farm Serial Number (FSN).
* Both the landowner and the operator must sign the SHIPP contract.
* A one-time sign-up will be held, beginning with the first crop year after the next farm bill has been enacted.
* Land is enrolled in SHIPP for three, four, or five years.
* A maximum of 15 percent of the cropland on a FSN may be enrolled in SHIPP, and to be eligible for SHIPP, land must have been planted or considered planted to a commodity crop for three consecutive years prior to enrollment.
* One base acre for each acre enrolled in SHIPP will be suspended and returned to the SHIPP-enrolled farm after a SHIPP contract expires or is terminated.
* Acres must be planted to a low-cost perennial conserving use cover at enrollee's expense.
* Acres may be harvested for seed after nesting and brood rearing period, but cannot be insured (25 percent reduction in rental payment if harvested for seed).
* Annual SHIPP payment rate shall be one-half of the CRP general sign-up rental per acre rate for the county.
* Premium discount for insured crops planted in a crop insurance unit each year shall be increased by 2 percent if the unit contains acres enrolled in SHIPP.
* SHIPP acres may be hayed or grazed outside the nesting and brood-rearing period established for the county, with adequate stubble height left standing to protect the soil, as determined by the State Technical Committee.
At the outset, socially disadvantaged and military veteran SHIPP enrollees would receive 75 percent of the CRP general sign-up rental rate, a three percent increase in crop insurance premium discounts, and no deduction in payment for harvesting grass seed on acres enrolled in SHIPP.
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Friends will celebrate Bert Crums 70th birthday Saturday, a half-century after his life nearly ended in Vietnam.
That he made it this far is remarkable. He is 100 percent disabled.
Doctors didnt think he would survive his injuries all these years, said brother Fred Crum of Omaha. They didnt expect him to walk or talk ever again.
Bert, honorably discharged as a lance corporal, has made the best of the bad hand he was dealt. He is a popular figure at the veterans home in Norfolk, Nebraska, where he moves around in his wheelchair.
Part of his daily ritual, said social worker RoseAnn Ross, is to go around and tell everybody good morning. He is very well-liked, and we are privileged to have him.
After he graduated from the old Omaha Tech High in 1966, the handsome Bert enlisted in the Marines. His reason for doing so was simple.
Because of my dad, he said this week. He was a Marine during the Second World War over in the Pacific.
His father, after a divorce, had raised Bert and Fred, who also lived for a time at the Omaha Home for Boys.
After boot camp, Bert married in Omaha before shipping out to Vietnam. Fred recalls his big brother saying it was always hot and rainy, but he has no memory of what happened Sept. 25, 1967.
He was 19, crouched in a foxhole, when a mortar made a direct hit. Two Marines next to him were killed, and Bert suffered a severe brain injury.
He was evacuated and returned to the United States, where a metal plate was inserted in his skull. He eventually spent seven years in a Topeka, Kansas, hospital.
It was hard to see him that way, said Fred, now retired as a Union Pacific electrician. He couldnt talk, couldnt walk and was paralyzed on the left side.
In a 1975 World-Herald interview, as the U.S. departed Vietnam, Bert said from his Kansas hospital bed that he didnt regret volunteering for the Marines and would do it again if he could.
It was worth it, he said. It was better than having them (the Communists) come over here.
Fred admires his brother for his military service, his hard work at rehabilitation and his persistence through the years.
Seeing young photos of Bert, Fred said, reminds me of the good times we always had and the times he could have had.
Berts marriage had quickly ended, and he didnt get a chance to raise a family or enjoy a career he had worked at an auto-body repair shop, and his brother says he might have become a mechanic.
About 58,000 Americans died in the war, their names inscribed on the Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C.
But of the 2.59 million who served, another 303,000 were wounded and half of those required hospitalization.
Some fully recovered. Others have suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder. Still others, like Bert C. Crum, have endured lifelong physical disabilities.
Omaha attorney David Koukol, Berts guardian-conservator, has requested information from the Marine Corps, as well as any medals or decorations he deserves.
Bert doesnt have a Purple Heart. Its unclear exactly where in Vietnam he was injured.
His 70th birthday is Tuesday, but people will honor him at the veterans home Saturday. In a talk prepared for delivery then, Koukol notes that Bert still carries the scars of his service, but retains a ready smile and a quick wit.
Regardless of ones political position on the Vietnam War, Koukol says, warriors like Bert deserve our utmost respect.
The Omaha Public Schools board has indicated it will likely need to hire an interim superintendent after the three finalists to be the district's next leader dropped out. The board is looking for someone to replace Superintendent Mark Evans, who plans to retire in June.
A program for job seekers meant to show potential employers that applicants have the skills to do the job got the thumbs-up Thursday from local employers and officials.
Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert; Douglas County Board member Chris Rodgers; Erin Porterfield, executive director of Heartland Workforce Solutions; and Randy Thelen with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce joined with executives from First Data and Airlite Plastics on Thursday afternoon to kick off the Heartland Work Ready initiative.
The initiative is a program intended to help job seekers earn the nationally recognized ACT National Career Readiness Certificate. More than 100 civic and business leaders attended the launch event at First Datas Aksarben location.
Daryl Teitler, vice president for human resources at First Data, told attendees that the company has already hired more than 25 certificate-holders.
Jesse DePriest, an Airlite executive, said, We need employers to sign up.
Taking the test speaks volumes about a job seeker, said Thelen, the chambers senior vice president for economic development.
It is not a simple endeavor; it is not a simple test, Thelen said. It shows an employer youve really put yourself out there, youve really taken a risk in your search for a job.
The certificate is earned after satisfactory completion of a three-hour test that measures reading comprehension, applied math and other skills.
In particular, it could help job seekers who havent attended college show a potential employer that they possess work-ready skills. The certificate is intended to complement traditional credentials such as high school diplomas, community college degrees and certificates of technical proficiency, ACT spokesman Ed Colby has said.
More than 10,000 employers nationwide recognize the certificate, ACT has said. The organization also produces the ACT test, which measures college readiness.
The Work Ready program is funded in part through Career Readiness to Eliminate Disparities, a City of Omaha initiative, and Metropolitan Community College. The city has approved a $400,000 grant this year for Heartland; part of that money is earmarked for the work readiness certificate program.
Over the next two years the goal is to get about 1,900 people to successfully complete the test, and persuade at least 228 area employers to commit to accepting the certificate as part of their hiring and job description process.
So far, more than 1,300 have received the certificate in Douglas County. The program is expanding to Sarpy and Washington Counties, said Krystal Frost, business service coordinator at Heartland, a nonprofit that serves job seekers.
There is no charge to test takers in the program. Heartland prepares job seekers to take the test and helps potential employers understand the scores, said Porterfield, Heartlands executive director.
First Data is one of more than 25 companies in the state that support the initiative. Others include Airlite Plastics, AIT Worldwide Logistics, Cargo Zone LLC and HVAC Pros.
Anyone can take the test, including high school students, college graduates, young adults, displaced workers, ex-offenders and veterans, at any of the Douglas County testing sites.
Douglas County test sites include Heartland Workforce Solutions, Metropolitan Community College campuses and the Latino Center of the Midlands.
The test also is offered in Braille and Spanish.
Test takers receive a pass or no pass on each of the tests three sections. The level of proficiency for each section is ranked bronze, silver, gold or platinum, the highest level.
Employers and job seekers can visit workreadycommunities.org or contact Heartland Workforce Solutions at hws-ne.org for more information.
An 18-year-old man was shot Thursday as he left a friends northeast Omaha house, police said.
Avari Mahadeo told police that he was leaving the house near 27th Avenue and Fort Street when he was shot by a person he does not know, a police spokesman said. The assailant fired from a black sport utility vehicle.
Mahadeo walked into Creighton University Medical Center about 7:15 p.m. Police did not release his condition.
In May 2014, Mahadeo suffered a minor wound when he was shot outside a house near 19th and Spencer Streets, police said then.
Police had not announced an arrest late Thursday.
A 29-year-old Norfolk, Nebraska, man was arrested Thursday night in connection with an alleged sexual assault in west Omaha.
Authorities say they have linked the man, Zachary Lee Person, to several other assaults of women in Nebraska and Iowa.
Person was arrested about 9 p.m. at his mothers home in Norfolk, the Douglas County Sheriffs Office said.
He was booked into the Douglas County Jail on suspicion of false imprisonment and second-degree sexual assault, Chief Deputy Tom Wheeler said Friday.
Person was arrested in connection with the assault of a female clerk working at Home2 Suites Omaha West hotel near 179th and Chicago Streets about 3 a.m. Wednesday, the Sheriffs Office said.
A man dressed in black and wearing a black ski mask can be seen on surveillance video stalking the front-desk employee at the hotel before attacking her and dragging her into a hallway, the Sheriffs Office said.
The man groped the woman while in the hallway, the Sheriffs Office said. The woman fought back, Wheeler said, and pulled off his ski mask.
Nebraska authorities received a tip from police in Sioux City, Iowa, that a similar case had occurred there about 8 a.m. Wednesday at Morningside College. The Sheriffs Office said a man there exposed himself in a womens shower room.
The mans appearance, the description of the vehicle he was driving and a partial license plate number in Sioux City matched the Omaha case, Wheeler said.
The Sheriffs Office said those details led them to Person. They said they then found his name on the states sex offender list and other databases.
Officials worked with authorities in Sioux City, Vermillion, South Dakota, and Fremont in learning that the man was a repeat offender in multiple jurisdictions.
Authorities also were able to use cellular tower information to link information from Persons cellphone to specific locations in Douglas County and at Morningside College, the Sheriffs Office said.
Wheeler said Person is awaiting sentencing in similar attacks on female joggers, students and gas station employees in South Dakota and Nebraska between 2007 and this year.
In several of those cases, a man attacked or knocked down female victims and molested them, Wheeler said. In other cases, officials said, the man exposed himself.
In 1969, local organist Jolene Rogge performed at three morning church services before getting married at 2 p.m.
I said, Im just going to take everything, Rogge said. My dad thought I was nuts.
Shes played at more than 15 Nebraska churches throughout her career. Shes currently works at Church of the Holy Spirit in Bellevue and volunteers at Church of the Holy Spirit in Plattsmouth.
Today marks Rogges 60th anniversary of being a church organist. After all these years, Rogges retiring on June 4. Church of the Holy Spirit will host a cake reception for Rogge after 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services on Sunday.
Dont you think its time? Rogge asked. Thats going to be sad. Thats a lot of years.
The Rev. Tom Jones, rector at Bellevue Church of the Holy Spirit, said Rogge is very committed to music.
Jolene brought new life to the music of our parish, Jones said. She has a vibrant personality and plays with vigor.
Since she started in 1957, Rogge said she can count the number of times shes missed services on her hand.
The first time was the day after her son Scott was born, June 28, 1970, because her doctor wouldnt let her leave the hospital.
Man, I cried after I had Scott and I couldnt go to church, Rogge said.
Before Rogge stepped a day into a kindergarten class, shed already started piano lessons at 5 years old.
Rogge said her mother, who played at churches from college until Rogge was born, inspired her to achieve what she has today.
Her mother died the year she started playing at Christ Lutheran Church in Norfolk, when Rogge was just 10 years old.
Rogge spends her Saturday nights and Sunday mornings performing during services, plus sets aside time for practices.
If the weathers bad, I just spend the night, Rogge said. I dont sleep; I just practice the whole time.
Her dedication will be missed, Jones said.
Ive known her now for 8.5 years, and it has been a blessing, Jones said. I will be sorry to see her leave.
With his mysterious accent, black scarf and bald head, Ryan Pivonka, assistant principal at Ralston High School, was received with laughs and enthusiasm when he walked into the second-grade classroom at Mockingbird Elementary School.
The children had been told there would be a surprise on Feb. 21, and they should wear their Minion shirts, made famous by the Despicable Me films. Little did they know that they would be greeted by Gru, the films infamous supervillain.
Although Pivonka dressed and sounded just like the character, perhaps even more exciting than his appearance was the fact that he brought with him new books for every student in the classroom.
Events like this have become common at Mockingbird Elementary School.
Since September, each student from kindergarten to third grade receives $7 worth of new books every month as part of the Book Trust Initiative, a program funded by United Way of the Midlands to bring books to students in 10 schools in the metro area at a total cost of $250,000 per year.
This year, 2,500 books have been delivered to students at Mockingbird, and Melissa Mayo, director of Classroom Ready Initiatives at United Way of the Midlands, estimates by the end of the school year that number could reach 5,000.
What this really confirms is that kids are still excited about reading, Mayo said. To see this excitement, youd think it was Christmas every month with all these celebrations.
The books are often held in the school for weeks while the students excitement builds for the book giveaway. Each giveaway is an event in its own right, and usually includes a special guest, ranging from Miss Nebraska to a teachers family members.
I think the creativity of this opportunity really lies in the hands of schools, Mayo said. The point of it is to make these days really special and show why reading is important.
Mockingbird, where 78 percent of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, was the only school in RPS chosen for this program. Some of the students here didnt have books at home, but by the end of the year theyll have a library of at least 30 books.
Its leveling the playing field so that every kind of student from kindergarten to third grade is ordering books every month, Mayo said.
The goal of the program is to encourage literacy and make sure students are reading at grade level. Students are able to pick out their own books from a Scholastic catalog with the help of teachers, who help identify the genres their students might like and make sure students are on the right reading level. Teachers are then reimbursed by United Way of the Midlands.
When kids have that ability to choose what they read, theyre more excited about reading, Mayo said.
Stacey Stoffel, a fifth-grade teacher and Mockingbird Book Trust manager, sees each month just how eager students are to have new books to call their own. Many of those who struggled with reading before this school year now cant wait to get their hands on another book, writing their name inside the book as soon as they can.
Its so wonderful to see them so excited about reading, Stoffel said. We want to get that anticipation up.
One of the goals of the program is that students will take the books home with them to read with their parents and family members. For those students whose families dont speak English, books in Spanish are also available.
One kid says thank you for getting me new books in Spanish so I can read with my parents at night, Stoffel said.
The Book Trust Initiative is a three-year pilot program beginning with kindergarteners. After three years, students could have more than 90 books of their own.
Weve been so fortunate to have this program, Stoffel said.
In 2011, Jason Strong walked into an Air Force recruiters office and fell in love.
I joined the Air Force at a very chaotic time in my life, said Strong, now a staff sergeant and a data operator on the E-4B at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. I had been in foster care for my senior year of high school, which was the only year I went to public school. Prior to that I had gone to a school run by this private community. It wasnt state accredited, it had its own curriculum. For biology, half the pages on human anatomy were ripped out. I was playing a ton of catch up, and I realized that really quickly.
The private community was the Society of St. Pius the Tenth, an offshoot of Catholicism that split from the mainstream Catholic church in the late 1980s over the changes made to the church during Vatican II.
Then I enrolled in Kansas State University, and as time progressed, things were even crazier back at home, he said.
Strong is one of 12 children, and he felt pulled in multiple directions as his younger siblings cycled into foster care.
I realized that I had spent the first 17 years of my life fighting not to be something, and that left me with a vacancy of, What am I? Who am I? he said. I only knew myself in comparison to what I was not, and that left me with nothing. I convinced myself I needed a structured environment, to expose myself to as many things as possible, and to get as much information as I could in a way that would allow me to be financially stable.
This led Strong to the military. As he entered the recruiters office that day, he saw a sign hanging on the wall with the Air Force core values printed on it.
This is so corny, but I fell in love with what it said and I thought, I want to be around people like that, Strong said. That was why I chose the Air Force. Its given me a structured environment, and I just got my bachelors degree. I now have an inside perspective on the military, Ive deployed three times. I understand so much more about the world and society than I did five years ago when I was this floundering child.
On his most recent deployment to Afghanistan in 2015, Strong managed to make a lasting mark on the country in a way few in the military manage to do.
I was online one day after a flight and I think it was on CNNs front page talking about a womans efforts in Kabul to start the first girls school, he said. I clicked on the link and read her story, and I saw the link to her fundraising campaign.
That woman was Razia Jan, and her school was the Zabuli Education Center in Kabul, Afghanistan. Originally a K-12 school, it has since expanded into a college. Strong donated, and was excited to see the campaign surpass their original fundraising goal before the deadline.
Strong felt his childhood shared a lot of the experiences that kids in Afghanistan had in regards to fundamentalist religions.
That kind of environment can impact future achievement and future self-worth, he said. Im a huge proponent of gender equality, because I had sisters that are dramatically impacted by fundamentalist Christian religion, which restricts them and has stopped them from reaching their goals or setting their goals. So to see someone as brave as Razia Jan over there, winning over an entire village of men to get them to support their daughters going to high school and now college, is everything I want to be able to do in my life.
Strong recognized that he had duties to fulfill in the Air Force that took precedence over helping organizations like Jans achieve success, but he still wanted to help. He contributed enough to the fund raiser to receive a private viewing of the documentary filmmaker Beth Murphy was making on the school.
In late July 2016, Murphy reached out to Strong, asking if he had any contacts in the Army Post Office or with an APO address.
An individual in the United States had donated a years worth of school supplies for 500 girls to the Zabuli Education Center, but the school was unable to afford transport of the donation to Kabul.
She wanted to know if I had any contacts who could help facilitate the transport of a years worth of school supplies for 500 girls, he said. I randomly did, in Kabul his name is John Phommavongsa. I met him on my first deployment to Kandahar. He worked for a commander who was super on board with this. The commander was able to make everything happen. It was so much easier to coordinate than I had initially expected, and everything went through perfectly.
Strong worked with Phommavongsa and U.S. Air Force Col. William Maxwell, deputy commander of the multinational force at Hamid Karzai International Airport through August 2016, and by September the supplies had been delivered to the school.
Staff Sgt. Strongs coordination with the force protection team ensured a safe and efficient transfer of the donation to the school leadership from the HKIA, Maxwell said. I believe that all people should find ways to become involved in projects like this one. The military especially has an opportunity to be a part of it here and it is also a benefit for the people of Afghanistan to see our military personnel as people too, and to understand that our coalition personnel are working toward the benefit and the success of the people of Afghanistan.
The success of Afghanistan could likely depend on the future of schools like Zabuli, Maxwell said.
This is one of the simplest things we can do and it can have a lifelong impression on the children that benefit from it, Maxwell said. The impressions of the children of Afghanistan will have a lasting impact on their continued thoughts about the coalition of nations here providing for the future of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
Strong feels supporting girls schools in areas like Afghanistan is important because those schools often face difficulty by virtue of simply existing. Unlike the United States, most girls in Afghanistan dont make it all the way through school, or their families are unable to afford the tuition.
This school is different, because a few girls have even been able to stay past getting married, Strong said. They usually get married very, very young, too. They were able to teach not only girls the value and potential of pursuing education, but also potential suitors and their families the value of allowing their wives to be in school. Its sad that it has to be allowed, and it isnt a fundamental right.
Girls schools in Afghanistan face centuries of resistance to the education of women.
It is heartbreaking to see the way these terrorists treat...women, said Jan in a 2012 interview with CNN. In their eyes, a women is an object that they can control. They are scared that when these girls get an education, they will become aware of their rights as women and as a human being. The day we opened the school, (on) the other side of town, they threw hand grenades in a girls school, and 100 girls were killed.
Strong said a motivator for the help he provided was also an attempt to show the bravery and competence of women like Jan, and combat the sexism he sees in western culture.
I used to think one person could change the world, but I dont anymore, he said. I think that we all, collectively, help make the world a better place. Being a man doesnt mean you have to degrade women. If Razia Jan can build a school for girls in Afghanistan, maybe we can talk about women in a better way. Maybe we can treat our female co-workers with the same amount of respect we treat our male co-workers.
As a result of Strongs contribution to the fundraiser for Zabuli, he gets a private viewing of the documentary, What Tomorrow Brings. He has opted to locate the viewing at the 557th Weather Wing auditorium on March 2 at 6 p.m. Any individual with base access is encouraged to attend. Strong and Beth Murphy, the director, will be in attendance. For more information, please call 294-3663.
LINCOLN (AP) A bill that would require drug screenings for Nebraska welfare recipients raised objections Thursday from civil liberties groups and advocates for low-income residents.
The measure would require applicants to complete substance abuse and job skills programs if they test positive for illegal drugs.
The bill is intended not to punish individuals but to provide treatment for people with a substance abuse problem, said Sen. Dan Hughes of Venango, the bills sponsor.
Hughes said he introduced the bill at the urging of constituents in his southwest Nebraska district, who voiced concerns that welfare recipients might be abusing the benefit.
Under the bill, applicants who test positive would have to complete substance abuse and job skills training programs. Those who fail or refuse to complete either program would become ineligible for cash assistance for a year, or until both programs are completed.
The Department of Health and Human Services could assign a protective payee to handle finances for a parent or guardian who gets disqualified. Nebraska has an average of 5,710 recipients per month, according to the department. The drug tests could cost an estimated $50,200 a year in state and federal money, based on the assumption that 11 percent of current adult recipients are suspected of drug abuse. If 4 percent of those tested are declared ineligible, the state and federal government would see a combined savings of $21,300.
Additionally, state officials say theyd have to hire a new program specialist at a cost of more than $73,000 in state and federal money.
Applicants would have to take a test if caseworkers suspect theyre abusing drugs, which Hughes acknowledged is subjective. Hughes said the measure has problems that need to be fixed but argued the state should do more to help people who are abusing illegal drugs.
We want people to live meaningful lives, and I feel dependency on drugs is a barrier, he said.
Critics said the bill violates recipients constitutional rights by subjecting them to invasive tests. Unlike drug screenings required by employers, state tests for parolees usually require a test-taker to urinate in front of another person, said Amy Miller, legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska.
There is nothing more invasive or more concerning ... than literally making poor people expose themselves, she said.
Additionally, Miller said a false positive could force recipients to take a second test at their own expense just to clear their name. We have no examples, no studies, no proof that this is even happening in Nebraska, she said. Its also not clear whether the state has enough resources to test every suspected drug user, said Becky Gould, executive director of the group Nebraska Appleseed.
At least 15 states have passed laws that relate to drug testing or screening to qualify for public assistance, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Some apply to all applicants, while others target people with a history of drug abuse or those who are believed to be using.
Copyright 2017 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
LINCOLN (AP) Nebraska lawmakers are considering asking voters to approve a constitutional amendment requiring people to show photo identification to vote.
The move comes after lawmakers in recent years have failed to approve a voter ID law. Sen. John Murante of Gretna, who sponsored the measure, told a legislative committee on Thursday that voters arent confident in the integrity of the electoral process and should be able to decide whether to require voters to show ID to prevent fraud.
Every single vote illegally cast cancels out the vote of an American citizen, and even one illegal vote is too many, Murante said.
The Nebraska Secretary of States office does not track voter fraud, but reports are rare. Two of the more than 860,000 Nebraska residents who voted in the 2016 general election are facing charges of voter fraud: A pair of men in Dawson County have April court dates for allegedly voting twice. One man was convicted for voting in both Kansas and Nebraska during the 2012 election, when more than 800,000 voted in Nebraska.
Supporters of Murantes measure, including Omaha resident Larry Storer, said the lack of widespread voter fraud doesnt mean anything.
We the citizens dont need evidence of fraud in Nebraska, he said.
A constitutional amendment is an underhanded way to force a voter ID bill upon the citizens of this state, said Dewayne Mays of the Lincoln branch of the NAACP. Voter ID requirements place undue hardships on young mobile people, elderly people with health issues who dont drive, people with physical or mental limitations and the poor, he said.
Omaha teacher Cheryl Goodwillie said her 86-year-old mother, a lifelong Republican, is among the people who could be disenfranchised by a voter ID law. Goodwillies mother moved to a smaller apartment in her Omaha assisted living facility after her husband died this summer and, after a three-hour ordeal the last time she was at the Department of Motor Vehicles, didnt want to go back to update her address on her non-operator ID. For the first time, Goodwillies mother didnt vote in the 2016 election.
If this bill were to become law, my mothers experience and my own mistake would become part of the states constitution, Goodwillie said. Please dont make it impossible for the elderly and disabled to vote.
Nebraska has tried several times in the past few years to introduce voter ID laws, but these measures have always died in committee or been filibustered on the floor. Murantes approach would require more support from the Legislature 30 of 49 votes and a statewide vote. It also would authorize the Legislature to specify which forms of ID are acceptable.
Copyright 2017 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
LINCOLN The deaths of two inmates this week at the prison near Tecumseh thrust Nebraskas beleaguered corrections system back under a harsh spotlight Friday, renewing some lawmakers calls for immediate action, while the states top prison official said the incident demonstrated improvements have been made.
Corrections Director Scott Frakes told reporters during a briefing Friday hes confident that those responsible for the deaths at the Tecumseh State Prison will be brought to justice.
Nebraska State Patrol investigators gained quicker access to the crime scene this week than they did two years ago, when a riot at the same prison also left two inmates dead. Those homicides remain unsolved.
In Thursdays melee, Damon Fitzgerald of Omaha and Michael Galindo of Scottsbluff were killed after a group of 40 inmates seized control of a portion of a maximum-security housing unit. Ninety-five corrections officers and state troopers regained control of the unit within 3 hours, a process that took closer to 10 hours in the 2015 riot.
Fitzgerald, 39, was serving 310 to 470 years for first-degree sexual assault, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, burglary and third-degree assault on a peace officer.
Galindo, 31, was serving 12 to 21 years in prison for a variety of offenses in Buffalo and Scotts Bluff Counties, including robbery, forgery and possession of a controlled substance.
Frakes, saying he did not want to comment on an ongoing investigation, declined to state flatly that his employees were not responsible for the deaths. But he read a statement from Attorney General Doug Peterson that said no evidence exists to implicate corrections staff.
That was apparently in response to comments earlier in the day by State Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha, who said Frakes, Gov. Pete Ricketts and other state officials were too quick to discount the possibility that inmates died at the hands of corrections staff or law enforcement officers during the incident response. Officials need to wait for completion of the investigation, he added.
On the floor of the State Legislature, Chambers said things have gone steadily downhill since Frakes was hired as state corrections director two years ago by Ricketts, whose family owns the online stock trading company TD Ameritrade.
Ameritrade would be out of business right now if there was this much incompetency on behalf of employees, Chambers said.
Hastings Sen. Steve Halloran also said it was wrong to prejudge what happened at Tecumseh before an investigation, but his perspective was different from Chambers.
Theres a lot of posturing going on here, he said, adding that other states also have seen prison disturbances. So far all Ive heard is a lot of posturing from a lot of people who seem to think these institutions are a preschool. Its a dangerous job.
Sen. Dan Watermeier of Syracuse, whose district includes the Tecumseh prison, praised staff members for their quick reaction in isolating the uprising and keeping it from threatening public safety. Watermeier was on the prison grounds Thursday as the response unfolded.
Watermeier said the staff has improved its response to prison disturbances since a Mothers Day 2015 riot at Tecumseh that involved as many as 400 inmates, leaving two staffers injured, two inmates dead and more than $2 million in damage. He urged his colleagues not to meddle when the department appears to have some positive momentum.
These things can happen and they probably will happen in the future ... but its something we need to work on, the senator said.
After the inmates set a fire about 1 p.m. Thursday in the yard outside housing unit 2, prison staff pulled out of the units day room and locked it down, isolating noncompliant inmates from the rest of the prison. Fights broke out among the isolated inmates, who damaged toilets and other fixtures and equipment in the unit. They also fueled the outside bonfire, probably with books, papers and bedding materials from their cells.
A damage estimate had not yet been compiled.
The facility was fully staffed at the time the disturbance began, Frakes said. He declined, for security reasons, to reveal how many employees were on duty.
Officials spent about 30 minutes assessing the situation before making a call for emergency response personnel, many of whom had to travel about 50 miles to Tecumseh from other state prisons, in Lincoln and Omaha. The travel time largely explains why it took 3 hours for the response team to regain control of the unit, Frakes said.
Officers wearing helmets and other riot gear and carrying shields fired nonlethal pepper balls and rubber projectiles during the operation. No firearms were discharged, Frakes added.
In addition to the two inmates who were killed, several inmates suffered minor injuries and smoke exposure that required on-site medical treatment, Frakes said. Three prison staff members sought outside medical care for smoke exposure.
Corrections officials continued to insist it was improper to call Thursdays events a riot. Frakes said the incident was serious and horrific but that the term riot conjures images of a facility in chaos.
The word riot also conveys to the public a risk to their safety, he said. No inmates were even close to breaching the secure perimeter of the facility.
Prison riot, as defined by the American Correctional Association, is when a significant number of inmates control a significant portion of the facility for a significant period of time. Thursdays melee involved half of a housing unit on the prison grounds the prison has a total of three housing units and 40 of about 1,000 total inmates.
Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln was among several lawmakers who questioned whether officials were trying to downplay what happened for the sake of image.
Anytime that two individuals who are in the care of the state of Nebraska are murdered, the public safety is at risk, Morfeld said. All too often our concerns with the Department of Corrections are minimized and decisive action is not taken. ... The time for the department to take action is now. ... How many more people are going to have to die before we get that message?
Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, who has held a key role in legislative investigations of corrections over the years, said she was not surprised by Thursdays events. The Tecumseh prison and other correctional facilities continue to struggle with high use of mandatory overtime, high job vacancy rates and high turnover among staff, along with overcrowding and a lack of programming aimed at rehabilitating the 96 percent of the inmates who will return to society.
Yesterday is not surprising, she said. Its disturbing, its dismaying and its hideous, but its not surprising.
Lawmakers launched the first investigation after The World-Herald uncovered widespread mistakes in sentence calculations, and Nikko Jenkins went on a killing spree that left four dead in Omaha following his release from prison.
At Fridays briefing Frakes said prison officials continue to make progress in efforts to hire and better retain staff at Tecumseh. But he challenged those who would aim all of their scrutiny at his department every time a high-profile incident occurs at a state prison.
In his estimation, prisoners seem more apt now to resort to violent disobedience than they once did.
When violent crimes occur in the community, we blame the person responsible, he said, but when these same individuals act out violently in prison, theres a rush to judge the corrections system.
Danielle Conrad, executive director of the ACLU of Nebraska, on Friday said Nebraska can no longer afford to wait on efforts to reform the troubled prison system.
In many ways theyre Band-Aids when a tourniquet is needed, she said.
State law mandates that the prison population fall below 140 percent of capacity by 2020. That would require a reduction of 1,021 inmates from the current population of 5,236. If the benchmark is missed, the governor must declare an emergency and start releasing inmates.
Its become very clear in this most recent tragedy that litigation is no longer a question of if but simply now a question of when, Conrad said. We are working very hard to finalize those litigation strategies.
She called on the governor and lawmakers not to wait until 2020 but to take immediate action to address an overcrowding situation that she called inhumane.
World-Herald staff writer Emily Nohr contributed to this report.
LINCOLN A measure that would require that the state post more information online about refugees coming to Nebraska drew the opposition of the states largest refugee resettlement agency Thursday.
Todd Reckling, vice president of program for Lutheran Family Services, told a panel of lawmakers the proposal would create problems by requiring the release of confidential information protected under federal law.
It also would be redundant to require the release of details about refugees already collected and reported to the state, he said.
State Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon, the bills sponsor, said his goal is for the state to better collect information about refugees so that it can anticipate costs and ensure resources are in place to take care of them.
If we were to have a central clearinghouse where we knew how many (refugees) were coming and what services they would need, we could assure our budgets allow for enough funding so we could support them, he said.
Under Legislative Bill 505, a resettlement agency would be required to report how many refugees the agency had received for resettlement during the reporting period, plus their nation of origin, age, sex and family status.
Agencies also would be required to submit a refugees nation of entry into United States, reason for the refugee or asylum status and any state benefits the refugee received.
The reason for a persons refugee or asylum status is confidential under federal law, Reckling said, so that part of the bill would put state law in conflict with federal law.
The information would be posted on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website and submitted to the Nebraska Legislature and the states congressional delegation. A fiscal note attached to the bill predicted no cost to HHS if the legislation would pass.
Refugee resettlement has become a hot topic nationally.
Through an executive order, President Donald Trump suspended refugee resettlement in the United States for 120 days, indefinitely suspended any Syrian refugees and banned travel to the United States from seven Muslim-majority, terrorism-associated countries for 90 days.
But a federal judge temporarily blocked enforcement of the ban, allowing refugees and people from the Muslim-majority countries to continue entering the United States.
Nebraska has a long history of refugee resettlement. Between October 2015 and September 2016, Nebraska welcomed 1,441 refugees leading the nation in resettling the most refugees per capita.
The legislation drew a number of supporters who raised concerns about refugees from Muslim-majority countries and the potential security, health and financial risks refugees could pose.
Reckling argued that reporting information about a refugees access to public benefits in no way correlates to safety or reducing risk to the general public any more than it would for reporting on nonrefugees who access the same benefits.
Plus, he said, the Governors Office already receives a monthly report about the number of refugee arrivals, along with their age categories, gender and nationality.
The Refugee Empowerment Center opposed the bill, while the Nebraska Catholic Conference, on behalf of Catholic Social Services of Southeast Nebraska, testified in a neutral capacity.
Seth Mock, a native of South Sudan who lived in a refugee camp for six years, said the bill could lead to discrimination against specific groups of people who already may be fearful and vulnerable.
Brewer said he was at a loss for words at the suggestion by some who testified that the legislation is racist or discriminatory.
He said the legislation is not about whether Nebraska should resettle refugees, and that he has no problem with them coming to Nebraska.
A retired Army colonel, Brewer said he deployed to Afghanistan following Sept. 11 to help build the Afghan national army. After he was shot six times in an October 2003 ambush, he had the option to leave. But he stayed because he believed in the country and the mission, he said.
I was closer to those Afghans than I was to members of my family, Brewer said.
The committee took no action on the bill.
LINCOLN As unrest turned violent at a Nebraska prison some 50 miles away, top state officials on Thursday were updated on changes intended to reduce overcrowding in the states prisons.
First, the good news: Steps undertaken two years ago in Nebraska have ended the growth of the states prison population and are starting to bring the numbers down.
The not-so-good news: The decline is much less than had been projected when top state officials embarked on the reforms.
Still, a national consultant said Thursday that Nebraska can meet the projections by 2020 if the current trends continue.
Sara Friedman, a policy analyst for the Council of State Governments Justice Center, said delays in implementing some policy changes have meant that the state was slower in seeing results.
Nebraska has seen some really positive results, but some of these policies are lagging in their expected impacts, she told a blue-ribbon committee of state officials, noting that implementation is messy.
The report focused only on efforts to reduce prison populations and increase public safety once inmates are released. It is one of several efforts at the state level focused on correcting the troubled correctional system.
Gov. Pete Ricketts, Speaker of the Legislature Sen. Jim Scheer and Chief Justice Mike Heavican of the Nebraska Supreme Court lead the 23-member Justice Reinvestment Implementation Coordinating Committee.
When the committee met in October, the prison population stood at 5,292 inmates a drop of 100 since the reforms were enacted in 2015. On Thursday, Friedman reported the population was down to 5,236 inmates.
In addition, she said, Nebraska has seen a fantastic reduction in the number of prisoners who jam out, meaning they finish their sentences behind bars.
The number of people on parole and post-release supervision jumped 41 percent in 2016, while the number released from prison without supervision dropped 22 percent.
Such supervision improves public safety by helping inmates transition from regimented prison life and establish a more productive, law-abiding life in the community.
Friedman said Nebraskas achievements have come despite delays in implementing four key reforms.
Those include sentencing changes aimed at keeping nonviolent offenders out of prison; parole guidelines to ensure serious felons get at least nine months of post-release supervision; and graduated sanctions that can be used for probation violations instead of sending people to prison.
Those reforms were expected to make the biggest difference in inmate numbers, she said. They are slated to be fully implemented by April.
But working against those changes is an unexpected increase in serious felony cases in 2016, Friedman said.
She pointed to drug offenses as the biggest factor in the increase. Officials from Omaha and Lincoln confirmed that observation.
Lincoln Police Chief Jeff Bliemeister said felony drug arrests in the capital city increased 50 percent from 2013 to 2016. He attributed the increase to more intensive enforcement.
Likewise, Omaha Police Capt. Rich Gonzalez said the departments increased efforts in fighting gangs have resulted in more drug arrests.
Nebraska pursued the justice reinvestment approach to reform in 2013 as the states prisons neared 160 percent of capacity. The changes were billed as lower-cost alternatives to incarceration and a way to avoid building a new prison, pegged at $262 million.
The goal is to cut the prison population by 1,021 inmates in 2020 about the size of the states largest prison.
That would put the state prison system below 140 percent of capacity, a benchmark used by federal courts to intervene.
The reforms include sentencing changes, along with greater use of probation, parole and special courts, such as drug courts, to reduce the number of offenders sent to prison for nonviolent crimes.
In an open letter to the committee, State Sen. Bob Krist of Omaha called for the three branches of government to continue their commitment to the effort, especially after assistance from the national council ends in August.
Krist also urged the state to properly fund the reforms. Concerns have been raised about the proposed funding levels for probation and parole as the state tries to close a budget shortfall.
In addition to the justice reinvestment steps, Nebraska has put $26 million toward a 160-bed expansion of a state prison in Lincoln and authorized the construction of a 100-bed dormitory at a community corrections facility in the capital.
In his budget proposal this year, Ricketts recommended spending an additional $75 million for a prison addition to house elderly and mentally ill inmates in Lincoln.
The chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee and the committees top Democratic member traveled to the Kansas State University campus last week and kicked off the hearing process to craft the next farm bill. The Midlands and the rest of the nations farm country should hope the legislative process goes far more productively than last time.
Development of the current farm bill, which runs through September 2018, was supposed to be a two-year process. Instead it wound up being a four-year endurance test in which tensions ran high and setbacks were frequent.
Among the chaotic episodes was a 2013 vote by the Senate Ag Committee. The committee majority approved a version of the farm bill that tilted so heavily toward Southern row-crop interests that it actually received no votes from three Great Plains lawmakers, including then-Sen. Mike Johanns of Nebraska, a former U.S. secretary of agriculture.
A more balanced approach was adopted in the bills final form the next year.
At the Kansas State campus last week, the leaders of the Senate Agriculture Committee heard testimony from 21 citizens farmers, ranchers, bankers, co-op officials. The hearing was chaired by Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kan., the committee chairman, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., the ranking Democrat.
Net farm income this year is projected to be $62.3 billion, falling to the lowest level since 2002, the federal Economic Research Service reports.
The pattern is evident in Nebraska. Profits for the states ag producers last year totaled about $4 billion, down from $7.5 billion in 2013.
Crop insurance received much attention from testifiers at the Kansas hearing. Such support has proven vital at a time when farm income has dropped at so many operations, producers said.
Some testifiers voiced frustration with the complexity of applying for the farm bills safety-net provisions. Additional criticism was aimed at burdens from federal regulations.
Several producers praised the farm bills support for conservation efforts.
Although trade issues arent a part of the farm bill, many testifiers pointed to the importance of opening up new markets overseas and maintaining existing ones.
We can produce bumper crops, one Kansas corn producer said. We need the ability to access trade.
Roberts and his counterparts in the U.S. House are aiming to get the next farm bill ready for approval by 2018.
The last time around, the obstacles were considerable, and many of them appear likely for the upcoming round of debate:
Urban-dominated Congress. Of the Houses 435 congressional districts, only 34 have an economy thats predominantly agricultural. That makes it tough to win over enough urban votes for ag- related legislation.
Food stamp funding. To win farm bill support from urban lawmakers, funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is included in the legislation. This food stamp component actually makes up the majority of the farm bill funding.
Cutting back SNAP funding was a major priority for conservative advocacy groups and Republican budget hawks during the previous farm bill debate. The issue was the main reason the farm bill at one point failed to pass the House.
Regional farm differences. Jostling between Southern and Midwestern farm interests routinely complicates efforts to craft the farm bill, as Johanns no vote in 2013 illustrated.
Income caps. Efforts were made to limit crop insurance to producers with incomes below a certain threshold. Its a hotly contested matter, and the income caps ultimately were rejected. The issue is quite likely to come up next time.
Midlands lawmakers have made clear they understand the difficulty in passing a farm bill. They have a vital obligation to stand up for our regions agricultural interests as Congress wrestles once again with this issue.
The State of Nebraska put Damon Fitzgerald, Michael Galindo and others in prison for committing serious, often horrific crimes. But its the states job to keep inmates alive.
Twice in two years, Nebraska has failed at this fundamental task. Both involved riots at the maximum security Tecumseh State Prison, a facility in southeast Nebraska long strained by practical difficulties in hiring and retaining staff.
Four inmates are dead Fitzgerald and Galindo from Thursdays fire-fed disturbance outside a housing unit that caused prison staff to step back, and Donald Peacock and Shon Collins from May 2015, when inmates took over a housing unit and caused more than $2 million in damage.
Gov. Pete Ricketts and state prisons director Scott Frakes continue to note that the general problem is one they inherited, but the fact remains that Nebraska has seen two major, fatal upheavals at this facility under their watch.
Any loss of life is tragic, Frakes said.
Yes, it is which is why focused action by the state is needed to tackle this issue.
On Friday, the same state lawmakers who will decide the fate of a prison funding package vented frustration about continued problems. They pointed to the need for a full investigation to get all the facts, and highlighted key prison issues a legislative task force identified for action.
Lincoln Sen. Matt Hansen noted that there have been two prison disturbances, four inmates killed and an escape involving two inmates since the new prison administration took over.
We know weve got more work to do, Ricketts said at a news conference. The Department of Corrections is doing heroic work to keep this facility safe for both the inmates and the staff.
Ricketts and Frakes should start by addressing administrative shortcomings the riot exposed, above all the nearly three-and-a-half-hour wait for an effective state response to end the tumult.
Theres a design flaw to fix when it took the Nebraska State Patrol hours to get its prison SWAT team to the rural community where Nebraska houses some of its most violent offenders. The Tecumseh prison is about an hours drive from both Omaha and Lincoln, where many of the tactical teams troopers are based. Frakes and State Patrol Col. Bradley Rice should explore options to fix this problem. Heres why timing matters:
Prison staff appear to have done what theyve been trained to do pull back from the housing unit and contain the inmate uprising to that area, state officials say. Still, corrections officers know those inmates left behind lost protection from one another. Every minute that a tactical team doesnt re-establish order risks lives.
Lawmakers are weighing a $20.1 million increase in prison spending to boost staffing and programming at Tecumseh and the states other prisons. The department asked for another $75.2 million from the cash reserve over the next four years to build new prison space for elderly inmates and those with serious mental illness.
Thursday highlighted staffing needs.
Time will tell whether Ricketts and Frakes were correct that Thursdays situation was unavoidable because of inmates choices. Staff actions will be evaluated. All will learn what went wrong.
In the meantime, the Corrections Department, the governor and the Legislature should get to work. Thousands of lives, and the safety of prison staff and the public, are at stake.
Attended by bigwigs
Political bigwigs across parties in Maharashtra on Thursday gathered at the wedding of BJP MLA Santosh Danve, son of state BJP chief Raosaheb Danve at at lavish ceremony on the outskirts of Aurangabad city at Jabinda Estate lawn grounds on Thursday.
The lavish wedding had who's who in state politics in attendance, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, former chief minister Narayan Rane, leader of opposition in legislative council Dhananjay Munde, and several Union and Maharashtra ministers.
Reminiscent of November's 500 crore wedding
The wedding is reminiscent of the wedding celebration of mining baron Gali Janardan Reddy's daughter Brahmini's Rs 500 crore wedding that came under scanner for its opulence. At time, it not only got the nation's attention since it was post demonetisation, it also brought the income tax officials to their doors.
The 4-day affair saw politicians, businessmen and celebrities alike. Taking lavish to a different level, Reddy's team of designers turned the Bengaluru Palace and its surrounding into the ancient kingdom of Vijayanagar with a temple, market, an entire village set and two make-shift houses for the families of the bride and the groom.
The slick pre-wedding video
The gala wedding evoked flak from social activist Anjali Damania, who questioned the source of funds for the event. "I am wondering from where does the money for such a lavish wedding come from," Damania said.
Before the wedding, a slick pre-video shot by Dream Diaries, the video had garnered 33,000 views on Facebook and was doing the rounds on Whatsapp as well.
'Love me again'
The video shows the BJP chief's son and his (now wife) Renu dancing and romancing to the to the John Newman number Love Me Again. Santosh and Renu had got engaged last month.
Santosh Danve is the youngest member of the Maharashtra legislative assembly from Bhokardan constituency. Renu is the daughter of well-known musician-composer Rajesh Sarkate.
All images: Twitter/Screengrab
CUET impact? Only 1 from Kerala board in Hindu College's popular course so far
After tension, gift a rose campaign brings peace in DU
India
oi-Maitreyee
New Delhi, March 3: In the last few days, we have witnessed protest marches and rallies hosted by students belonging to both the left-affiliated organisations and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad in Delhi University. However, on Friday, the picture turned little 'rosier' as the students belonging to the National Students' Union of India decided to gift roses to students in the campus of Ramjas College.
The idea behind distribution of roses in the campus has nothing to do with Valentine's Day which was marked on February 14, but to restore peace in the college campus where the entire clash between the students of the left groups and the ABVP initially started a few days ago.
"Delhi: NSUI students start 'Gift a rose' campaign outside #Ramjas college to restore peace in the campus," tweeted ANI.
Delhi: NSUI students start 'Gift a rose' campaign outside #Ramjas college to restore peace in the campus pic.twitter.com/m33ygboAwB ANI (@ANI_news) March 3, 2017
The clash between the students of left groups and the ABVP started after the latter protested the participation of Umar Khalid, a student of Jawaharlal Nehru University, in a seminar hosted in Ramjas Colleges a few days ago. During the protests, several students, teachers and journalists were allegedly attacked by students belonging to the ABVP.
The entire matter became a national issue after Gurmehar Kaur--a student of the DU-- posted a message on the Facebook criticising the violence perpetrated against the students by the ABVP members. Kaur received rape threats by members of the ABVP. Since then the entire DU is on a boil. We hope the 'gift a rose' campaign brings some semblance in the top most university of the country.
OneIndia News
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 12:54 [IST]
People shiver even at the thought of naming their kids 'Gayatri': Yogi's dig at ex-SP minister
Akhilesh promises cooperation on Gayatri Prajapati issue
India
pti-PTI
Lucknow, Mar 3: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on Friday promised full cooperation with regard to the case of rape-accused elusive minister Gayatri Prasad Prajapati as per the directions of the Supreme Court.
"The matter is in the Supreme Court...The government will fully cooperate and go by its order," Yadav said in response to a question at a hurriedly-convened press conference in Lucknow.
When his attention was drawn to the tweet by state BJP president Keshav Prasad Maurya that Prajapati has been hiding in the Chief Minister's house, Akhilesh asked the mediapersons to follow him with their cameras to check for themselves.
Prajapati and some of his aides have been accused of gang-raping a woman and molesting his daughter. The victims had knocked at the doors of the Supreme Court, on whose directive an FIR has been registered by the UP Police against the ruling Samajwadi Party politician.
However, Prajapati continues to be elusive. Akhilesh has been facing severe attack from the BJP over the Prajapati episode, especially since he is contesting as a Samajwadi Party candidate from Amethi and the Chief Minister had campaigned in that constituency.
PTI
UP election: Akhilesh refutes Modi's claim of ISI role in Kanpur train mishap
India
pti-PTI
Ghazipur (UP), Mar 3: Refuting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claim of ISI hand in the Kanpur train accident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on Friday alleged that BJP leaders were used to seeking votes by "misguiding" the people.
"Our railway minister could not take care of the tracks in Kanpur and gave a false report to the prime minister that the ISI had damaged the tracks. I want to say that since the incident occurred in Uttar Pradesh, at least I should have been informed about it...But, no information...no truth in it," he told an election rally here. Akhilesh also alleged that the leaders of the saffron party were "used to seeking votes by misleading the people".
Ghazipur is the Lok Sabha constituency of Union Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha. As many as 150 people were killed in a train mishap in Kanpur on November 20, 2016, and on December 28, another train got derailed there. It was said that Pakistan's ISI was responsible for the incidents. Regarding Union ministers and senior BJP leaders campaigning for the ongoing Assembly election in the state, the chief minister said, "Had the prime minister brought his work here (in Uttar Pradesh), his ministers would not have been required to campaign for his party."
In a veiled reference to the ongoing campus row in Delhi University involving the BJP's students wing ABVP, Akhilesh said, "I want to ask those patriotic people of the BJP, who are displaying their nationalism in Delhi, what have they done for the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country. What help was extended to their families."
"Only the SP government helps the families of soldiers who laid down their lives," he added. The Samajwadi Party chief claimed that his party has already secured a lead in the first five phases of the seven-phase Uttar Pradesh Assembly election due to the works of its government and added that the "demoralised faces of the BJP and BSP leaders" said it all. The sixth phase of the polls will be held tomorrow and the seventh and final phase on March 8. Results will be declared on March 11.
PTI
Amid controversy, JNU receives award for 'best varsity'
India
oi-Maitreyee
New Delhi, March 3: It has been a busy day for Jawaharlal Nehru University on Friday. According to media reports, the university -- at the centre of controversy for more than a year now -- has been honoured with the annual 'Visitor's Award' for the best varsity in the country on Friday.
A day earlier on Thursday, a controversial poster demanding 'Azaadi (freedom) for Kashmir' was seen in the varsity campus. The poster reads, "Freedom for Kashmir, free Palestine! Right to self-determination, long live!" It was signed by the ultra-Left student political wing Democratic Students Union. The poster was later removed by the JNU administration..
According to PTI, the poster was seen by the students at the new block of School of Social Sciences, who then chose to involve the administration regarding its presence. JNU authorities ordered the university security to remove the poster in the evening. "We don't know who put up the poster as this has been the pattern in JNU. However, the administration has asked the staff to bring it down," a senior university official told PTI.
In the last few days, we have seen the issues of nationalism and freedom of speech taking the centre stage, after a clash was reported between the students belonging to left-affiliated organisations and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad in the Ramjas College in Delhi University. A sharp polarisation of views have been witnessed in both the JNU and the DU as both the right and left groups are trying to take control over these premier educational institutions.
"The winners of Visitor's Award for 'Innovation' and 'Research' will receive a citation and cash award of Rs one lakh. The awards will be presented during a function as part of the 'Festival of Innovations'," said a statement by the Visitor.
JNU vice chancellor Jagadesh Kumar will receive the award including a citation and a trophy from President Pranab Mukherjee at an event at the Rasthrapati Bhavan on March 6, reported PTI.
"Deepak Pant from the Central University of Himachal Pradesh has won the Visitor's Award for 'Innovation' while the Visitor's Award for 'Research' has been jointly won by Shyam Sunder from Banaras Hindu University and Niranjan Karak from Tezpur University," a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement said.
OneIndia News
Blood will flood the Chinese rivers, IS warns
India
oi-Vicky
By Vicky
Just a day after Islamic State boss, Abu Bakr al-Bhagdadi posted a farewell to Iraq video, a strong message vowing to fill the rivers of China with blood has emerged. The message from the Uighur Islamic State fighters promised that they will fight the Chinese.
China has raised concerns about the Uighurs (mostly Chinese from China's Xinjiang region) and said that many of them had left for Iraq to train with the IS. The Uighurs have been in a battle with the establishment for long.
A 30-minute video, shows Uighurs training in Iraq. They seek out revenge for the killing of their men who have been in an ethnic battle with the Han Chinese. They claim that several hundred of their men have been killed. The video also shows a Chinese flag go up in flames.
"We are fighting with the infidels across the world. Stay strong. We will plant our flag over China, America, Russia and all other infidels," says a man in the video according according to a Reuters report. The man also referts to Communists as infidel lackeys.
OneIndia News
BMC elections 2017: Who will be Mumbai's mayor?
India
oi-Vicky
By Vicky
A week after the elections, there is still no clarity on who would rule the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporationin Mumbai. The fractured mandate which saw the Bharatiya Janata Party and Shiv Sena bag 82 and 84 seats each in the recently concluded BMC elections 2017. The last date to file the nominations for the post of mayor is March 8, and there is still no breakthrough in the talks between any of the parties.
Meanwhile, the Congress decided to field a mayoral candidate and said that it would seek the support of the Nationalist Congress Party and the Samajwadi Party. Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam however denied that his party would be indirectly supporting the Shiv Sena. "Both the BJP and the SS do not subscribe to our ideology," he said, but added that the Congress with 31 seats would not abstain from voting.
Parties BMC election result 2017 2012 Shiv Sena 84 75 Bharatiya Janata Party 82 31 Congress 31 52 NCP 09 13 MNS 07 28 Others 14 28 Total won 227/227 227/227
The various scenarios:
The BJP and the Shiv Sena could form an alliance. If the parties come together then both will rule the BMC with a strength of 166. The Congress and the NCP could support the Shiv Sena. If this takes place then the Sena will rule the BMC with 128 corporators. The Congress however has a pre-condition and that the Sena must pull out of the state government led by the BJP. If Congress and NCP stay neutral and abstain from voting it would bring down the house strength to 182. The Sena would then need 91 votes. The SS Sena 84 seats and has the support of 4 independents. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena with 7 corporators will hold the key. The BJP could support the Sena from outside on the assurance that it would continue supporting the state government. There could be a three-cornered fight with the Congress also fielding its own candidate.
OneIndia News
12-year-old boy dies of Nipah virus infection in Kozhikode, Central team rushed to Kerala
Forest department called after snake in train causes panic
Accident victim dies in ambulance as vehicle's door fails to open
Kerala: Bomb hurled at RSS office, 3 injured
India
oi-Vikas
By Vikas
Three Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh workers were injured after a bomb was hurled at the saffron outfit's office in Kerala's Kozhikode district on Thursday, said reports.
#Visuals Bomb hurled at RSS office in Kallachy near Nadapuram, Kerala. 3RSS workers injured, shifted to Government Medical College,Kozhikode pic.twitter.com/l1uNGLsW0F ANI (@ANI_news) March 2, 2017
The incident took place at Kallachi at around 9 pm on Thursday. The injured have been taken to the Kozhikode Medical College.
Reports say that police have reached the spot and investigating the matter. The police have tightened security in the area to prevent the situation from deteriorating.
The attackers have not been identified yet.
There have been several violent incidents involving the RSS and the CPI workers in Kerala in the recent past.
The incident assumes significance in the wake of comments made by RSS leader from Madhya Pradesh, Kundan Chandrawat.
Chandrawat had announced a Rs 1-crore reward for anyone who brings the head of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Chandrawat held the ruling government in Kerala responsible for the recent killing of members of right-wing organisations in the state.
OneIndia News
Budding jihadi in Pak: I want to be Dawood when I grow up
India
oi-Vicky
By Vicky
Budding jihadis in Pakistan want to either be gangster Dawood Ibrahim or Burhan Wani when they grow up. This was the indication that was given to Talha, the son of Hafiz Saeed, chief of the Lashkar-e-Tayiba.
In an event conducted on February 5, Talha is seen urging the crowd to wage a war against India. He keeps asking the crowd what they want to become. "Do you want to become a doctor, engineer, judge or a policeman?" he asks.
To this the crowd responds in the negative. He then asks if they want to become Dawood Ibrahim? The crowds screams out, 'Yes.' He then goes on to ask them if they want to become Burhan Wani. The crowd once again says, 'Yes."
He then says that they should fight the war against India in the name of Dawood or Wani. The notorious don, who is an accused in the Mumbai serial blasts has taken refuge in Karachi. He has been accused of funding the LeT and other terror groups in exchange for protection.
Wani, the commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen had become a poster boy for jihadis. It was in his name that the Kashmir unrest was planned.
OneIndia News
Congress accuses Modi of using jawans for political gains
India
pti-PTI
New Delhi, Mar 3: The Congress on Friday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of using army jawans for political gains but turning a blind eye to their needs and demanded a probe into the mysterious death of jawan Roy Mathew.
Pointing to the fresh video of BSF jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav questioning the Prime Minister on removing corruption from the system, Congress spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill said it shows the failure of the government in ordering a probe into substandard food served to jawans.
Army jawan Mathew was found dead after he featured in a video on the abuse of the 'Sahayak' system in the military.
"We demand the government should order a fair probe that why Tej Bahadur and Roy Mathew were harassed and intimidated after they raised their concerns. We ask the government to order a fair probe into the death of Roy Mathew," he said.
"Indian National Congress strongly objects to any kind of politicisation of the Army and defence forces - but sadly the government of the day uses the Army only for its political gains and does not want to address their pain," he said.
Referring to the video, he said it reflects the 'failure' of the government to address the concerns of the army jawans. He alleged that for past two-and-a-half years, a trend has been seen that 'this government is only addicted to praise and does not want to take any kind of criticism or questions'.
Shergill said the video makes it amply clear that any person questioning the government and asking questions, criticises or asks about corruption in the system, "will be threatened, intimidated and humiliated or will go missing".
He said the Congress party asks the government and the Prime Minister specifically as to what is the fault of Tej Bahadur that he is being harassed on daily basis for simply asking the Prime Minister to remove corruption in the system.
"We demand from Rajnath Singh to come out with the probe which he promised after Tej Bahadur video surfaced. We demand to know from the Home Minister what he has done on complaints regarding food served to army jawans," he said.
"Today, it is a worrying trend when a wife of army jawan has to approach the Hon'ble High Court to find about the whereabouts of her husband. Is anybody safe in this country is the moot question we are asking," he said.
Shergill said the Prime Minister is busy campaigning in UP elections and he should "wake up" and hear concerns of army jawans. "Because when it comes to words, he fully uses the army jawans, when it comes to their concerns, he turns a blind eye," he said.
PTI
CUET impact? Only 1 from Kerala board in Hindu College's popular course so far
Delhi University: ABVP to meet Delhi Lieutenant governor
India
oi-Anusha
Protests in the Delhi University seems to be taking different forms with student unions like the ABVP and NSUI opting to address the issue differently than extending protests. An ABVP delegation of 5 members is all set to meet Delhi's Lieutenant governor to demand action. Accusing the Delhi police of inaction, ABVP will meet the governor and put forth three demands.
Action against those who indulged in anti-national sloganeering, charge sheet against the accused in Jawaharlal Nehru University sedition case as well as the arrest of those who threatened Gurmehar Kaur features in the ABVP's demand to the lieutenant governor.
Meanwhile, NSUI students distributed chocolates and roses to those in Delhi university in an attempt to draw the curtains of unrest and violence in the campus.
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 13:04 [IST]
Diary expose: Congress MLC accuses IT dept of fraud, files complaint
India
oi-Anusha
Almost a year after raids were conducted at his residence in Bengaluru, Congress MLC Govindaraj has filed a complaint against the officials of Income Tax Department. In his complaint dated February 28, the MLC has alleged that officials from the Income Tax department planted documents that did not belong to him. He further alleges that the documents thus planted and seized were leaked in a fraudulent and treacherous manner instead of maintaining secrecy.
It may be noted that the complaint has been filed only after a diary, said to belong to the Congress MLC was made public and details of alleged bribes were noted in the same. Govindaraj had claimed that neither the diary nor the handwriting in it belonged to him as soon as the details of the diary were made public. In his complaint, that has been filed almost a yer after raids at his residence, Govindaraj has accused the I-T Department of not only wrongfully detaining him in Goa but planting evidence during raids and wrongfully leaking information to his rivals. The complaint coming only after allegations of bribery details noted in the diary surfaced have raised many eyebrows. Questions are being raised on why the MLC chose to not act for the last one year and filed a complaint only now when raids were in fact carried out in March 2016.
The Indiranagar police have already filed a FIR in this regard under sections 166(a), 193, 182, 341, 109, 466, 199, 406, 218, 409, 457, 120B, 34, 380, 472 and 471 of the Indian Penal Code. Some of the sections involve punishment for wrongful restraint, production of false information, punishment for false evidence, forgery of record of Court, punishment for criminal breach of trust and criminal conspiracy.
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 13:55 [IST]
Why is the DMK continuing to oppose the imposition of Hindi? - 50 years of struggle and the truth!
EC rejects TTV Dinakaran's response on Sasikala's appointment
India
oi-Anusha
By Anusha Ravi
The Election Commission on Friday refused to accept TTV Dinakaran's response on Sasikala Natarajan's appointment as AIADMK's interim general secretary. The EC held that TTV Dinakaran is not an office bearer and thus his response on behalf of Sasikala Natarajan cannot be accepted.
TTV Dinakaran along with AIADMK MLAs had on February 28 filed a response to the Election Commission's notice to Sasikala on her appointment as the party's general secretary. The notice was addressed to Sasikala lodged in a Bengaluru central jail but AIADMK advocates led by TTV Dinakaran had filed a response.
The Election Commission has rejected the response since TTV Dinakaran submitted it as an office bearer of the party, a post that is not valid according to the records with the election commission.
TTV Dinakaran was appointed as the party's deputy general Secretary, a post that was specially created for him on February 14 when Sasikala Natarajan was convicted by the Supreme Court in the disproportionate assets case. The post was non-existent till then.
Oneindia news
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 21:25 [IST]
Filmy SP rallies: 1 candidate cries, another beats himself up with shoe
India
oi-Maitreyee
Lucknow, March 3: In the last legs of Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, candidates of the ruling Samajwadi Party are entertaining the crowd with some jaw-dropping histrionics. Yes, we really mean it. According to a report by NDTV, at a recent election rally in the state, SP candidate PD Tiwari, who is contesting election from the Barhaj constituency in Deoria in eastern Uttar Pradesh, was seen shedding tears in front of a huge crowd.
On top of that the entire 'drama' was witnessed by incumbent Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav who attended the rally to ask votes for Tiwari. The incident happened just after Akhilesh's speech. As soon as the CM finished his address, it was the turn of Tiwari to talk. Instead of speaking a single word, Tiwari started crying like a 'baby'.
Later on, he left the stage as his party colleagues tried to console Tiwari. However, nobody knew why he cried. While a few think he was overwhelmed by Akhilesh's presence, others believe he was upset as Tiwari has been facing backlash from a section of his own party.
Similarly, one more SP candidate did something really unbelievable. He beat himself up with his own shoe in front of voters at an election rally. According to NDTV, Shujat Alam--the SP candidate from Bulandshahr--repeatedly hit himself on his head with his own shoe and begged voters to 'forgive' him for 'mistakes he made unknowingly'. Alam had previously lost two elections from the same constituency.
Probably to avoid a hat-trick, the leader decided to inflict 'self-violence'. We don't know if crying and beating up oneself ensure votes. However, such acts by politicians add masala to the whole election process.
OneIndia News
People shiver even at the thought of naming their kids 'Gayatri': Yogi's dig at ex-SP minister
Former district judge Rajendra Singh had no role to play in Gayatri Prajapati bail
Gayatri may flee country, airports on high alert
India
oi-Vicky
Airports have been placed under high alert as intelligence agencies have warned that Uttar Pradesh minister Gayatri Prajapati may flee the country.
An alert has been issued by the Intelligence Bureau that Prajapati, accused of rape, may flee the country.
All security agencies have been directed to stay on high alert. Agencies have also been told to be on the look out for the leader accused of rape.
The Immigration Department has been told not to cooperate with him and immediately inform about his whereabouts.
Prajapati is accused in cases of gang rape and an attempt to rape woman and her minor daughter.
The minister enjoyed Y category security and steps were taken to withdraw the same. The police have beeb on the lookout for him ever since the court refused to quash the FIR against him.
Earlier in the day, UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav criticised those accusing him of shielding Prajapati. Come to my home with cameras and check, he said.
OneIndia News
Goa: Velingkar ready to work as swayamsewak, dissolves rebel faction
India
pti-PTI
Panaji, Mar 3: Former Goa RSS chief-turned-rebel Subhash Velingkar, whose outfit had contested assembly polls against the ruling BJP last month, is set to 'dissolve' his rebel unit, apparently to enable his supporters to rejoin parent RSS.
He has also expressed his desire to work as an ordinary 'swayamsewak' without any post in RSS.
"We are moving towards dissolution of our 'Goa prant'. This is not a merger with RSS but dissolution. Once that is done, we are free to go to shakhas," said Velingkar who had spearheaded a political movement against BJP by floating Goa Suraksha Manch.
Velingkar, whose GSM was part of the alliance that contested the February 4 assembly polls against the ruling party, had last month hinted at either merging his breakaway 'Goa prant' with RSS or dissolving it.
Incumbent Goa RSS chief Laxman Behre had then said the Sangh would welcome anybody to its fold. Velingkar on Friday clarified that none of the Goa Prant members, including those who had held official positions in RSS before walking out with him, wants to be reinstated post 'dissolution'.
"Everyone, including me, is ready to work as a swayamsevak. We have already been identified as Sangh cadres and we don't require any post to get recognition in society," said Velingkar whose association with RSS is over five-decade-old.
He was relieved as Goa RSS chief last September following his decision to float GSM to counter the BJP during polls. The Velingkar faction had serious differences with BJP over the issue of Medium of Instruction for elementary education in the coastal state.
"The decision of dissolution was arrived at following series of meetings with 'Goa Prant' members who are around 4,000. When we formed 'Goa Prant' before elections, it had been decided that we will go back to parent Sangh after polls. We had separated from RSS Konkan Prant only to avoid unnecessary political pressure," he told PTI.
Velingkar said a formal announcement in this regard might be made on March 6, possibly in a press conference. Interestingly, the Sangh veteran had earlier blamed Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar and Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar for his ouster.
In September, a large number of RSS workers disassociated themselves with 'Konkan Prant' and joined Velingkar's 'Goa Prant'.
Meanwhile, he said the Goa Prant members would continue their fight for MOI in elementary education in their individual capacity.
"There will be no compromise on our principles. The fight to stop grants to English medium schools and recognise mother tongue as the medium of instruction would continue, but in a personal capacity," Velingkar added.
PTI
Gujarat assembly panel raps two PSUs for financial indiscipline
India
oi-PTI
Gandhinagar, Mar 2: A Gujarat Assembly committee, which monitors state's Public Sector Undertakings, has criticised two PSUs for financial indiscipline and not taking action against employees for lackadaisical approach.
In a report tabled in the Assembly today, the Public Enterprise Committee pointed out several flaws in the functioning of Gujarat State Financial Services Ltd and Gujarat State Financial Corporation. In its scrutiny report on GSFS, which was based on the CAG findings for 2008-2009 and subsequent explanations given by the PSU, the committee raised objection over "diversion of funds" for renovating the company's office in Gandhinagar.
The House panel noted such financial indiscipline should not be tolerated. "Such extra-budgetary expenditure does not seem legitimate by any means. If at all the PSU wants to do renovation, then it has to make a provision in the state Budget as a new item. Violation of budgetary discipline is not appropriate for a PSU which itself prepares the state Budget."
"If government starts approving such expenditure, other PSUs will follow suit. In such a scenario, you will be left with no funds. We feel such diversion of funds must be stopped. We advise the government to strictly inform all PSUs to refrain from this activity of fund diversion in future," said the committee report.
The panel slammed GSFC for not taking timely action against employees showing lackadaisical approach as well as those found to be involved in financial irregularities and embezzlement. The committee asked the PSU to take disciplinary action against employees who have not done enough to find out files missing for almost five years. It its reply, the PSU said action was not possible in the matter now as most of these employees and officials have already retired.
"Showing lack of interest in taking action is like disrespecting the recommendations of this committee. We recommend this PSU to do the needful to fix responsibilities." It urged the government to issue a common guideline for all PSUs so that they take punitive action against employees found to be involved in financial irregularities or embezzlement.
"Ideally, PSUs should take action against employees as soon as the audit report finds them guilty. The Government should make it clear in its guideline that retired officials will also face action if found guilty," said the report. The 14-member committee, having members from both ruling BJP and Opposition Congress, is headed by former Cabinet Minister and senior BJP MLA Narottam Patel.
The panel scrutinises the observations made by the Comptroller and Auditor General on PSUs and submits recommendations to the Government.
PTI
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 11:52 [IST]
Hum Badlenge Apna Bharat : A campaign to clean politics by youngsters
India
oi-Maitreyee
New Delhi, March 3: In this election season, the Association for Democratic Reforms--a non-political group aiming at governmental and electoral reforms--has started a new campaign-- Hum Badlenge Apna Bharat (We will change our Bharat)--by asking the youths of India to participate in the democratic process and clean the filth from politics.
"To mobilise the masses to get involved in pressurising politicians to deliver good governance, the ADR has planned to take its advocacy to another level with its--Hum Badlenge Apna Bharat Campaign--an initiative to engage youths in strengthening our democracy," stated a press release issued by the ADR.
The ADR has planned several workshops and seminars across the country--targetting the youngsters studying in schools and colleges. "As a part of this programme, we want to hold workshops across the country to educate school and college students about the critical connection between informed voting and good governance. Students are the future voters, thus it is necessary to make them understand, why they should take their 'Right to Vote' seriously. They need to realise that how the kind of representatives they will chose, would decide what kind of future they have--Progressive or Regressive," added the ADR's press release.
In order to make its latest project successful, the ADR has asked people's participation in the campaign. "The ADR won't have been able to launch this ambitious programme without your (people's) support. We wish to start the programme by holding workshops in 50 schools, with a minimum budget of at least Rs 25,000 per school. This takes us to the total budget of Rs 10,00,000 to Rs 15,00,000. Kindly come forward to make our children's future bright and donate to us generously by clicking here."
For the last several years, the ADR has been examining data of political parties and politicians to increase transparency and accountability in the country's political and electoral system.
OneIndia News
Explained: Why are the Cheetahs travelling to India from Namibia on an empty stomach
The chosen one: Why Kuno was picked as cheetahs' home in India
How to spot the difference between a Cheetah, Leopard and Jaguar?
In Pics: World Wildlife Day celebrated across the world
India
oi-Sandra Marina Fernandes
World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on March 3 and this year the theme is 'Listen to the Young Voices.' It is celebrated to mark the signing of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
The day aims to create awareness and encourages people across the globe to protect endangered species. On Twitter, people began posting imagges using the hasgtag #DoOneThingToday to create awareness about the day on Friday.
Indian sand artist creates sand art on World Wildlife Day Indian sand artist Sudarsan Patnaik creates sand art in Puri, Odisha on World Wildlife Day. Photo courtesy: @sudarsansand World Wildlife Day theme for this year is 'Listen to the Young Voices' Australian nature expert Steve Irwin's daughter Bindi Irwin too took to Twitter to create awareness about World Wildlife Day. Photo courtesy: @BindiIrwin Wildlife population has declined in past 40 years According to World Wildlife Fund report last year, global wildlife populations have declined by 58 per cent in the last 40 years. Photo courtesy- PTI UN urges youth to engage in wildlife conservation According to UN, the engagement and empowerment of youth plays an important role in conservation of endangered species and wildlife. Photo courtesy: PTI
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 10:00 [IST]
J&K: Anti-India slogans raised, stones hurled
India
oi-Madhuri
Srinagar: Protests and clashes erupted in Nowhatta area of downtown Srinagar shortly after the Friday prayers. According to reports, a groups of youth tried to take a march from Jamia Masjid area and started chanting pro-freedom and anti-India slogans, but were stopped by the government forces which were deployed in that area.
As the forces barred the youth, stone hurling clashes ensued in the area. However, forces resorted by firing teargas shells to disperse the protesters. There were no reports of anyone getting injured during the clashes.
On February 15, General Bipin Rawat gave out a strong message to those obstructing army operations. "Those who obstruct our ops during encounters and are not supportive will be treated as over ground workers of terrorists," he said.
General Rawat added that the army will treat locals displaying Islamic State and Pakistan flags as anti-nationals and take action against them. "If locals who want to continue with terror by displaying flags of IS and Pak then we'll treat them as anti-nationals and will not spare them," he said.
OneIndia News (with IANS inputs)
Jawan who exposed rot in 'sahayak system' found dead
India
oi-Anusha
An army Jawan from Kerala who had criticised the army orderly system better known as 'sahayak system' was found dead under mysterious circumstances on Thursday. Roy Mathew's body was found in an abandoned barrack in Deolali Cantonment in Maharashtra in a decomposed state. In his last conversation with his wife, Mathew,33, is said to have told that he had inadvertently spoken ill of the orderly system in the army to an online journalist who had secretly recorded the conversation. The family now suspects foul play.
Mathew's statements were secretly recorded by a news website criticising the orderly system in February and the video had gone viral. Even as the website took precautions to blur his face and conceal the identity, Mathew had told his wife that he was in trouble for his statements. Mathew had served in the army for almost 13 years and was among many other jawans who were seen in the video. The sting operation focused on highlighting the plight of trained soldiers forced to indulge in menial household work at officers' homes because of the 'sahayak' system.
Mathew was facing an inquiry after the sting operation went viral and had been missing from his unit since February 25 after allegedly coming under pressure by batchmates and seniors.
OneIndia News
Jayalalithaa DA case: Should Jaya's portraits be removed from govt buildings?
India
oi-Anusha
The Supreme Court's judgement abating the verdict against J Jayalalithaa in the disproportionate assets case has thrown up new confusions. Even as Karnataka government is contemplating seeking a clarification from the Supreme court on whether the Rs 100 crore can be recovered, it gives space for debate on whether Jayalalithaa's portraits should be removed from government buildings.
[DA case special court officer explains how Jayalalithaa's properties can be seized]
The verdict being abated effectively throws up questions on whether the former Chief Minister was convicted by the Supreme court or if the High Court's order of acquitting her stands valid. If the High Court's verdict to acquit her remains valid, her portraits can continue to adorn the walls of government buildings. It would also mean that no questions can be raised on a state-sponsored memorial for Jayalalithaa who died when she still held the office of Chief Minister. Post her death, the AIADMK had demanded that Jayalalithaa be conferred with a Bharat Ratna for her work in public life. The demand was shelved after the Supreme Court upheld trial court's verdict convicting all accused in the case. The lack of clarity now makes way for the revival of this demand.
[Can Rs 100 crore be recovered from Jayalalithaa? Karnataka to see clarification in SC]
If the Supreme Court's decision to keep verdict against Jayalalithaa in abeyance translates to her being convicted would the same apply to the Rs 100 crore fine imposed on her? However, irrespective of what the Supreme Court's stand pertaining to Jayalalithaa is, Sasikala, Sudhakaran and Ilavarasi will continue to serve jail term since the order clearly mentions that the verdict of the trial court with regard to accused number 2 to 4, is confirmed but in case of Jayalalithaa, it is abated since she is deceased.
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 17:09 [IST]
Kolkata: McDonalds serves dead lizard with French fries to a pregnant woman
India
oi-Lisa
Kolkata, March 3: Priyanka Moitra who had gone to celebrate her four-year-old daughter's birthday at McDonald's outlet in EM
Bypass area of Kolkata, noticed a dead lizard in the French fries.
She added that when she reported the matter to the manager of the outlet, he offered to take away the order and replace the same with fresh food. Priyanka said she started feeling dizzy and ill after consuming the French fries and got worried about the health of her
daughter and unborn child.
She then clicked the photo of the dead lizard along with the French fries. After which she lodged a complaint against the McDonald outlet with the Phulbagan police station.
Priyanka said that she felt that filing a police complaint was important as people should know about this incident as consuming such
poisonous food can be fatal. Priyanka and her family have decided to take up the issue legally against McDonald.
Sanjay Mitra, Priyanka's husband, who was in Lucknow when the incident happened said that he is worried about the health of his
family and he questioned McDonald's carelessness. He said that when he tried to contact McDonald's Delhi and Kolkata offices, they
tendered no apology and asked them to send the proof for analysis.
McDonald's North and East divisions spokespersonmeanwhile has said that they are in contact with the customer and were taking the situation seriously. He added that once they came to know about the incident they have launched a thorough investigation to gather the facts. He added that McDonalds is fully cooperating with authorities who are probing the matter.
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 11:45 [IST]
Registrations for CEED, UCEED 2023 to commence in October: All the details here
Maharashtra government reconstitutes committee for mangroves
India
oi-PTI
Mumbai, March 3: Acting on the Bombay high court directives, the Maharashtra Government has reconstituted a committee formed for the protection of mangroves in Navi Mumbai.
Chief Conservator of Forest, Mangrove Cell, will be the Member-Secretary of the committee. Divisional Commissioner of Konkan region will be the Chairman of the panel, an official release said here today.
Environment activists or organisations recommended by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Special Branch, Navi Mumbai, Additional Commissioner of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation and Divisional Commissioner can be part of the panel, it stated.
PTI
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 12:57 [IST]
Manipur candidates face attacks ahead of elections
India
oi-Gulam Rabbani
Imphal, March 3: With just a day before the Manipur elections, candidates had been facing attacks irrespective of their parties. The Imphal police on Thursday said that some unidentified people were targetting these candidates, and suspect that the political party rivals are behind the attacks.
A powerful bomb was detonated at tribal politician K Leisho's house at Langol near Imphal at 5:10 pm on Thursday, police said. Though his family members and supporters had a narrow escape, eight persons including a woman were injured by shrapnel.
In another incident, some unidentified persons opened fire at the house of Yumkham Erabot, a Congress leader and now a BJP candidate at 3:20 am on the same day. However, there were no casualties.
A China-made hand-grenade was also lobbed at Congress candidate RK Imo's house in the Sagolband constituency. There were no casualties.
There were reports of attacks on the houses of some other candidates too. Cars and other property was damaged in stone pelting.
In view of the violent atmosphere, the Election Commission is using 280 personnel of the central paramilitary forces on election duty.
To check possible influx of foreigners from Myanmar, the district magistrate of border district Chandel has imposed night curfew along the international border. The police said that the night curfew shall remain in force till March 11, the day of counting of votes. Manipur votes in two phases, on March 4 and 8.
Oneindia.news
Political violence continues in Kerala: DYFI activists hacked
India
oi-Anusha
Hours, after a crude bomb was hurled at an RSS office in Kozhikode, two activists of democratic youth federation of India, were hacked by miscreants. The duo was hacked in Palakkad district, Kerala on Thursday night even as a CPI(M) office in Kozhikode was set ablaze in what was understood as retaliation to the attack on RSS office. A complaint filed with the police named three BJP workers for the attack on the two men.
The attack on the RSS office came after an RSS leader announced a bounty of Rs 1 crore on Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's head. Three RSS workers were injured in the attack and were shifted to Kozhikode's Government Medical College. Hours after a crude bomb was hurled at the RSS office, miscreants set CPI(M) office in Kozhikode ablaze. The hacking of the two DYFI members came hours after the attack on the RSS office.
Meanwhile, RSS activists across the country decided to protest against the violence perpetrated against their members and offices. Dozens of RSS members gathered in protest in Hyderabad on Friday morning to condemn the killings in Kerala. Protesters accused the CPI(M) led Kerala government of deliberate silence on the political murders.
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 11:40 [IST]
Steel flyover scrapped- people's victory or political gameplan?
India
oi-Anusha
The Karnataka government decided to scrap its ambitious yet contentious steel flyover project in Hebbal. While citizens claimed it
a victory for people's movement, there is more to it than what meets the eye. The BJP was quick to announce that the Rs 1800 crore
project was scrapped after a diary containing details of kick back semerged. The Congress, however, claimed that the project was scrappeddue to public opposition but made it very clear that BJP was stalling development projects in Bengaluru.
The decision to scrap the steel bridge project was taken during an MLAs meet in Bengaluru. Congress working President Dinesh Gundu Rao suggested that the project be dropped instead of allowing it to be a momunent of Congress' corruption. He accused the BJP of not taking a clear stand on the project but using it to level corruption charges against them. The Congress hopes to make the steel flyover a poll agenda in North Bengaluru constituencies. The government was adamant on going ahead with the project due to bottlenecks and heavy traffic snarls enroute the Airport. The six-lane bridge was aimed at bringing relief to residents who had time and again requested for de-congestion. So much so that while one group of citizens rallied against the flyover, another rallied for it in what came to be known as the 'Beku v/s beda' fight. The Congress hopes to bank on the 'Bedu brigade' to dent the BJP's performance in
constituencies of North Bengaluru in the upcoming assembly polls.
The BJP on the otherhand demanded that a CBI query be ordered into the diary expose that 'ultimately forced Congress to drop the
project'. "Citizens have been protesting from months together but congress decided to drop the project only after a diary alleging
kickbacks came to light. They are withdrawing the project since they fear that they will be exposed further. The chief minister is directly
involved and hence a CBI investigation is needed," B S Yeddyurappa said addressing the media soon after the project was scrapped.
"I will hold BJP and Rajeev Chandrashekhar responsible for not allowing developmental activities in Bengaluru," K J George had
said while announcing the 'painful' decision to scrap the steel bridge project. He cited 'People's opposition and baseless allegations' as reasons for cancelling the project. Till last month, the Congress had defended the project even willing to fight a legal battle for it. They had even stated that the project was approved during the previous BJP government and that the Congress was merely implementing it. Things took a turn after a diary allegedly belonging to a Congress MLA and containing details of kickbacks received surfaced, says the BJP.
By scrapping the steel bridge project the Congress has taken away a key agenda of the BJP to show Congress in a bad light. This, however, will not change the fact that the diary is going to feature prominently in all rallies of the BJP. The BJP, just like now, hopes
to portray the cancellation of the project as a defense mechanisms of a 'shaken Congress' while the Congress hopes to turn it
against the BJP, accusing it of hindering development of Bengaluru.
OneIndia News
Will BJP be able to recreate 'Assam magic' in Manipur elections?
India
oi-Maitreyee
Imphal, March 3: Till recently, the Bharatiya Janata Party hardly had any hold over the entire northeast region. However, things are fast changing. After sweeping the Assam Assembly elections 2016, the saffron party is eyeing to come to power in Manipur. The assembly elections in the sensitive state are scheduled on March 4 and 8.
The BJP is leaving no stone unturned as its top leadership--Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, to name a few--have campaigned in the state. Moreover, national general secretary of the BJP, Ram Madhav, has been personally monitoring all the campaigning activities in Manipur. In fact, it was Madhav only who was credited of helping the BJP win the assembly polls in Assam for the first time. The Assam assembly election win was the first time that the BJP won a legislative poll in the entire northeast region.
The former member of the national executive of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Madhav is said to be the brain behind selecting candidates to contest polls to the nature of campaign issues to be addressed by BJP leaders. This time, the BJP has been vociferously targeting the incumbent Congress government in Manipur for massive corruption and lack of development in the state.
Main election issues
Recently, when the Prime Minister addressed a poll rally in the capital city Imphal he mostly targeted Chief Minister Ibobi Singh for his alleged role in misappropriation of state funds and minimal development in the state. However, poll pundits say this time the main election issue is the ongoing economic blockade in the state that has brought life to a standstill in Manipur.
"Manipur elections are a complex business. The state has several issues---militancy, corruption, lack of development, Armed Forces Special Powers Act and economic blockade, to name a few. This time, the main election issue is the ongoing blockade that both the state government and the Centre have failed to address," said an Imphal-based editor.
He added that situation in Assam and Manipur are different. "Voters in Assam were massively tired of CM Tarun Gogoi's government. Gogoi continuously ruled the state for 15 years. However, the state saw any noticeable development. Moreover, the Hindu voters cast their votes for the BJP and PM Modi during Assam polls. The same can't be said about the nature of complex politics in Manipur. We have to wait and watch till results are declared on March 11."
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 10:25 [IST]
After Kansas shooting, 25 senators urge Trump administration to stop hate crime in US
International
oi-Vicky
By Vicky
Washington, March 3: Following the killing of an Indian in Kansas, 25 senators have urged the Donald Trump administration to respond to the rise in hate violence across the country.
In a letter to the Attorney General Jeff Sessions, 25 senators said that there has been an alarming rise in bias motivated violence. BuzzFeed, news while quoting the letter said, "Many members of racial, ethnic and religious minority communities, as well as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, live in very real fear for their safety."
Further urging the Trump administration to address concerns of fear, the letter said that it is incumbent upon you as our nation's chief law enforcement officer to demonstrate to them and all Americans that discrimination and violence against any individual because of who they are, how they worship, or who they love will not be tolerated in our country."
The letter comes in the backdrop of various incidents of hate crime being reported in the US. Many Jewish community centres have received bomb threats.
The Kansas incident in which an Indian engineer was killed is also being investigated as a hate crime by the FBI. Trump in his first address to the Congress had condemned both the attack at Kansas and on Jewish centres.
OneIndia News
Bill introduced in US Congress to curb outsourcing of jobs
International
oi-Vikas
By Vikas
After a bill to raise minimum wages of H1B visa holders was introduced in the US Congress, a bipartisan bill to deter American companies from shipping call centre and service jobs to foreign countries has now been reintroduced.
Democrat Gene Green and Republican David McKinley reintroduced 'The U.S. Call Center and Consumer Protection Act' in the U.S. Congress. The bill proposes to incentivize American companies to retain such jobs in the US.
Green reportedly stressed on the importance of American workers having access to good service sector jobs and receive a liveable wages.
He added that the bipartisan legislation would protect call centre workers in Texas and throughout the US.
McKinley said that their priority was to protect and create American jobs, said reports.
He said the bill does not mandate that companies keep call centres in America, but would such companies will not receive funding from the government.
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Story first published: Friday, March 3, 2017, 19:00 [IST]
Canada witnesses a jump in asylum seekers from US
International
pti-PTI
Ottawa, Mar 3: The number of migrants applying for refugee status in Canada after crossing the border from the United States has been rising since the beginning of the year, officials said on Thursday.
"Canada has seen an increase in the number of asylum claims in January of this year, compared to the same time last year," the Canada Border Services Agency told a briefing. From January 1 to February 21, a total of about 4,000 people filed refugee claims, up from 2,500 during the same period last year.
The figure includes border jumpers and those arriving from the United States at border checkpoints. Canadian officials were hesitant to point to a trend based on the preliminary data. "Some claimants have spent relatively little time in the US" before coming to Canada, an official said.
The recent wave of migrants originated mostly from East Africa and war-torn nations such as Syria. Federal police and immigration officials said some appeared to have intended from the start to come to Canada after flying to the United States on a visitor visa. Others decided to come here only after they were denied asylum south of the border, or because they feared deportation amid the current US crackdown.
"People are afraid of finding themselves in a situation where they might not have access to an equitable system," said Jean-Nicolas Beuze, Canadian representative of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). Total refugee claims in Canada have fallen from 44,000 in 2001 to 24,000 last year. An estimated 40-60 percent were successful, according to officials.
PTI
Ian Grillot released from hospital, recalls Kansas shooting incident
International
pti-PTI
Houston, Mar 3: Ian Grillot, who was injured while trying to intervene during a racially-motivated shooting in Kansas in which an Indian techie was killed, has been released from hospital and invited to India to be recognised for his heroics.
The University of Kansas Health System confirmed that the 24-year-old has gone home, but there's still a long road to recovery after he took two bullets, in the hand and the chest.
"He has been through many hurdles since the shooting and still faces physician appointments and other critical meetings in the days ahead," the hospital said in a statement.
Ian was injured when he tried to stop the February 22 shooting of the two Indian techies in Olathe area. Srinivas Kuchibhotla, 32, was killed in the attack, while Alok Madasani was injured. Ian was released late on Tuesday after spending nearly a week in medical care.
He went back to the hospital on Thursday to meet with Anupam Ray, consul-general of the Indian consulate in Houston. Ray told Ian and his family that people in India were grateful for his heroics during the deadly melee, according to the hospital.
An invitation was extended to Ian and his family to travel to India once he got the medical green light to travel. Following his release earlier this week, Ian attended church on Wednesday and then returned to the crime scene for 'closure', according to the hospital statement.
Adam Purington, 51, is accused of the shooting and faces both murder and attempted murder charges. The navy veteran is reported to have attacked Kuchibhotla and Madasani, who both worked at GPS-maker Garmin, because he thought they were Iranian.
Purington allegedly yelled 'get out of my country' before opening gunfire on the pair, striking both along with Ian. As he spoke to reporters on Tuesday, Ian recalled how he escorted Purington out of the bar where the shooting happened after he was seen harassing the engineers.
About half an hour later, Ian recalled, the shooter was back and firing.
"By the time he was done shooting, that's when I got up and tried to chase the...guy down," he said.
"When I was chasing him down, trying to subdue him so that way he could be held responsible for his terrible actions, that's when he turned around and shot," he added.
Purington escaped, however, and was arrested hours later at an Applebees about 70 miles away from the crime scene. Grillot said on Tuesday that he didn't want to weigh in on what type of punishment Purington should get if he's found guilty, nor if he thought it was a hate crime. But that doesn't mean he's ready to forgive the suspected gunman anytime soon.
"I do feel sympathy for him, but his actions were unjustified and uncalled for," he said.
Many have considered it a racially motivated attack, calling on the White House to take action. President Trump, in his first address to a joint session of Congress, also condemned the attack.
PTI
Fact Check: Old images of Imran Khan shared as ones from recent shooting incident
Imran Khan discharged from hospital, to resume long march from same point where he was shot
Pak Army chief Gen Bajwa says will bring back normalcy in the country
International
pti-PTI
Lahore, Mar 3: Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday reiterated that security agencies will crackdown on "all troublemakers" under the recently-launched military campaign Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad across the country.
"Through Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad we will take on all fasaadis (troublemakers) and play our part in bringing back normalcy in our country," army chief said in his address to soldiers at Multan garrison.
Operation Radd-ul-Fassad, meaning elimination of discord, was launched last month after a series of militant attacks in the country killed more than 125 people. Most deadly of them was a suicide bombing at a famed Sufi shrine in the southern Sindh province in which 88 people died.
According to a statement by the army's media wing, ISPR, Gen Bajwa received a detailed briefing on the troops' operational preparedness during the visit to Multan. Later, he witnessed a combat training exercise at the Muzaffargarh field firing ranges.
PTI
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Take a road trip to West Union for the annual Iowa Artists regional show on Saturday, March 4.
The show will be in the lobby of the Performing Arts Center of North Fayette Valley High School, and will be open to the public from noon through mid-afternoon.
It will showcase the work of visual artists from Northeast Iowa, including Fayette, Winneshiek, Chickasaw, Howard, Mitchell, Allamakee and Clayton counties. About 60 pieces of artwork are expected to be on display.
The West Union show serves as a selection stage for the Iowa Artists State Show, which will be May 13 in Ames. Laura Colby, Upper Iowa University Assistant Professor, will be the show judge. Iowa Artists is a statewide organization of painters, print makers, potters and sculptors.
DES MOINES A bill that would bar a woman from receiving an abortion after 20 weeks made it through an Iowa Senate committee on Thursday evening. But two other pieces of legislation seeking to limit Iowa womens access to abortion did not survive the sessions first funnel deadline.
Senate File 53 passed on a 9-to-3 vote in the Human Resources Committee, securing two Democrats after the legislation was amended to include exceptions in cases where the mothers life is in danger or fetal anomalies in which the fetus is diagnosed with a medical condition that is incompatible with life.
The amendment was added after Sen. Mark Chelgren, R-Ottumwa, said he heard compelling testimony during the Tuesday subcommittee meeting. During the meeting, Amanda Acton of Waukee testified about her own experiences with abortion, when she was told by her doctor in her 21st week that her daughter had a rare genetic condition and did not have lungs.
She said the decision to have an abortion was difficult, but the humane thing to do.
We did listen, Chelgren said.
But that was not enough for all the Democrats on the Senate committee.
Not every pregnancy ends the way a family hopes it will, said Sen. Joe Bolkcom, D-Iowa City. Sometimes it ends in miscarriage, sometimes the mother finds out there is something seriously wrong with her baby. Abortions later in pregnancy may make us uncomfortable. But one thing we can all agree on is that a womans health and safety is crucial.
If the Legislature wants to continue to decrease the number of unwanted pregnancies and therefore abortions, Bolkcom said it should be committed to funding family-planning services and support the use of contraception.
Extreme bans do nothing to reduce abortions and hinder medical care, he said.
The bill next will go before the full Senate for a vote.
A similar piece of legislation, House File 293, which passed through a House subcommittee on Wednesday, however, did not make it out of committee. That legislation, along with SF 253, the so-called personhood bill which could have effectively banned abortions died Thursday afternoon, after they were both taken off committee agendas.
The legislation which womens health organizations called extreme and reckless would have made it so that life is protected from the moment of conception and accorded the same rights and protections guaranteed to all persons.
Opponents, including Planned Parenthood of the Heartland, said the bill severely would have limited womens access to the most effective forms of birth control as well negatively impacted families seeking to use in vitro fertilization services. Similar Personhood movements have failed in recent years in Colorado, North Dakota and Mississippi.
SF 253 was a thinly veiled, unconstitutional attempt to ban abortion in the state of Iowa, said Planned Parenthood of the Heartland in a statement. Even fellow Senate Republicans recognized it would have far-reaching unintended consequences, and refused to vote in its favor.
Sen. Brad Zaun, R-Urbandale, who chaired the committee and was a co-sponsor of Senate File 253, expressed disappointment that the bill did not survive. But he added, This is how the process works.
Zaun was hesitant to comment on why the bill was unable to attain enough support to make it out of committee, but did say he received thousands of emails from Iowans both in support of and opposition to the bill.
Obviously I believe in it, he said. Im interested in saving one unborn child at a time.
WATERLOO Tears gripped Maria Lee Motto on Thursday as soon as she entered the courtroom and glanced at the man she injured in a 2016 car crash in La Porte City.
Motto, 49, quickly snatched two tissues from a box offered by a courtroom deputy and put them to use as she waited for her sentencing hearing to begin.
Across the room, Dean Allen Demoss, 42, of Hiawatha, sat unable to recognize Motto, his memory of the collision still cloudy.
Last month, Motto pleaded guilty to serious injury by vehicle and possession of methamphetamine in the crash, and on Thursday she was sentenced to up to five years in prison as part of a plea deal with the state.
Motto, of Vinton, wept as she called her actions reckless, careless and stupid and apologized to Demoss and his family.
I still owe you my deepest heartfelt apologies, she said. She said she will never again be so simple minded as to think that her addiction was only hurting her.
Authorities said Motto, a friend of a friend of Demosss, was driving Demosss 2002 Nissan Pathfinder while coming down from a meth high and dozed off, slamming into a tree in the 600 block of Commercial Street on at about 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 28.
Witnesses said Motto appeared incoherent at the scene and was unable to tell authorities her name. Sheriffs deputies found syringes with meth inside her purse when they looked for her ID.
Dean Demoss, a backseat passenger, suffered serious head injuries. He was taken to Covenant Medical Center in Waterloo and then flown to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Iowa City.
He was in a coma for 10 days, remained in Iowa City until Nov. 14 and then went to Covenant rehab center until Christmas, said Assistant County Attorney Jeremy Westendorf. He said Dean Demoss is functioning at the level of a 12-year-old.
Hes doing very well physically. He can do anything he wants. Its just his decision making isnt there, said his father, Roger Demoss, who has been caring for him since the crash.
Dean Demoss still has bruises on his brain and wont be able to return to work for awhile. He had been a roofer.
He said the family has grown closer with the crash.
He always loved his kids, but he also liked doing things he shouldnt be doing. And what has happened has brought them closer together because of the incident, and hes realizing the second chance hes got, and hes going to be a better person, Roger Demoss said.
Jeff Reinitz writes for the Waterloo Courier, another Lee Enterprises newspaper. Reach him at jeff.reinitz@wcfcourier.com.
Reuters - Politics 30 Jul 2020
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SIOUX CITY | A Sioux City man sustained a serious stab wound in the groin area after his girlfriend attack him with a knife Thursday morning.
According to the Sioux City Police Department, 39-year-old Natasha Drappeaux and her boyfriend, Salahadin Adem, were intoxicated and arguing over money around 9 a.m. at the Ida apartment building, 1901 Pierce St.
During the quarrel, Drappeaux grabbed a knife and stabbed Adem in the groin area, left forearm and left upper arm, according to court documents.
The serious wound in the groin caused Adem to lose a large amount of blood, and had to undergo surgery at Mercy Medical Center-- Sioux City. Police expect the injuries to be non-life-threatening.
Drappeaux was arrested on scene and charged with felony willful injury.
Ida building resident Almaz Yohannes said Adem had knocked on her door after the stabbing occurred and asked her to phone 911. Yohannes said she lives below Adem, but that the apartment is usually a quiet place.
"Oh, yes, it's definitely (usually quiet)," she said.
The incident is under investigation.
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As of Q4 2016, Yggdrasil is Clearly Moving into the Top Tier
Published March 3, 2017 by Lee R
A well-balanced strategy leads to substantial annual and quarterly growth at Yggdrasil.
Yggdrasil is growing by leaps and bounds, at a pace which appears on its way to becoming the norm among iGamings strongest performers.
Moving Up
Yggdrasil called its Q4 2016 revenue growth of more than 200% a transition from strength to strength.
Q4 Figures
The Cherry AB-owned games developer said revenues were up 207% year-on-year to SEK 31.8 million (3.4 million / $3.5 million) with an EBITDA margin of 42%.
The number of player transactions went up proportionally as well, showing a 210% year-on-year hike to 633 million, with mobile gaming now reaching 51% of total gross game win.
2016 Figures
For the full year of 2016, Yggdrasil reported year-ending revenue increases of 332% to SEK 86.9 million along with an eye-popping EBITDA catapult of 670% to SEK 40.1 million.
CEO Speaks
CEO Fredrik Elmqvist defined his companys strength-to-strength movement in Q4 through excellent growth, new operator signings, new games and new industry firsts.
Elmqvist couldnt help lauding the Q4 figures as well calling the revenue jump particularly pleasing as EBIT hit a new quarterly high of SEK 9.3 million.
Secrets to Success
Distinguishing the innovation of the Yggdrasil brand is an essential part of organisational success. Citing the steady progress of collaborative partnership programme Yggdrasil White Label Studios, which now has two customers on board since being launched in Q3 2016. Elmqvist asserted his organisations intention to transform the way slots are developed.
Looking Ahead
Elmqvist said the company is looking to make an immediate impact in Italy, where Yggdrasil is set to launch by the end of Q2 2017. Yggdrasil currently holds licenses in the UK, Gibraltar, Malta and Romania.
Yggdrasil Q4 Highlights
Other key Q4 highlights for Yggdrasil include signing 10 new licence agreements, with new partners including Tain, Gaming Innovation Group, SuprNation and Lottoland; along with expansion into Sweden by announcing the establishment of a new Stockholm office.
2016 Highlights
Full year highlights for 2016 included the release of 13 new games, the acquisition of the Gibraltar and Romania licences; going live in the UK, and 20 new operator user agreements, including with Bet 365, Casumo and Bwin.
Outlook
At this rate, Yggdrasils self-proclaimed underdog status will not last much longer as company growth performs at iGaming heavyweight proportions.
Opalesque Industry Update - Despite continued underperformance for investors in the hedge fund industry, the 2017 Hedge Fund Compensation Report shows that a majority of hedge fund professionals expected higher pay in the form of base compensation and bonuses. Only one in five expected to make less than the previous year. This year, earnings at the top of the pay range remained strong. Those in the mid-tier range increased by 6 percentage points over last year, which nearly matched the percentage of professionals expecting to make lower pay. The tenth annual Hedge Fund Compensation Report analyzes data collected directly from hedge fund professionals representing hundreds of global investment firms. "Our report polls a cross-section of industry insiders on many different factors related to hedge fund compensation," says David Kochanek, publisher of the report. "That makes it possible for us to compare complex variables and dig into a decade's worth of information to identify trends and see changes in the industry in both bull and bear markets." For most in the industry, bonuses are an integral part of overall compensation. In fact, bonus pay represents 80 percent of total compensation for hedge fund professionals in the uppermost pay bands. Although some hedge fund professionals report they are guaranteed lump sum bonuses, eight out of 10 receive bonuses tied to performance metrics or other discretionary factors. "We are beginning to see an increased correlation between fund performance and bonus pay after some years of disconnect," says Kochanek. "Unlike last year, funds that are up the most are now reporting the highest bonuses. We no longer see funds that are down or breaking even reporting higher bonuses than those operating in the black. It seems rational compensation numbers are returning to the industry." Those in the industry remain largely dissatisfied with their compensation. Across a wide range of titles, roles and experience levels, 61 percent are unsatisfied with their total pay. As in previous years, those that earn the most are most satisfied, implying that those in decision-making roles feel adequately rewarded for their additional responsibility.
Opalesque Industry Update - The first investment fund specialising in UK-based robotics start-ups focuses on delivering returns to Investors by making targeted investments in promising UK-based seed-stage robotics companies wrapped within a fund format that is highly tax efficient (under the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme, "SEIS"). Automation and robotisation are beginning to drive significant productivity improvements across the global economy, making it one of today's most exciting investment themes. According to market intelligence firm Tractica, robotics is set to grow at rates in excess of 45% with the global market to approach a quarter of trillion dollars by 2021. There are currently no specialist UK investment vehicles to provide financial backing and strategic support for early stage robotics companies with compelling business in concepts. Therefore, the Fund offers investors a unique opportunity to participate in a selection of the most innovative and disruptive businesses that are exploiting the new generation of robotic technologies. The fund will invest in up to 12 robotics start-ups each year across a broad range of sectors including, construction, logistics, agriculture and domestic robots. World-class robotics laboratories in the United Kingdom are home to some of the finest robot-engineering talent and the Fund looks, via partnerships with theses labs and incubators, to help convert this inherent potential into successful world-class companies. The British Robotics Seed Fund is being managed by Sapphire Capital Partners LLP in partnership with High Growth Robotics Limited (www.britbots.com) which will help identify the investments and provide mentoring services to the robotics entrepreneurs and start-ups with which the fund works. The fund is open to professional or sophisticated investors with a minimum of 10,000 to invest and who are looking to enhance their investment portfolio with high growth robotics businesses. SEIS-qualifying robotics companies are being encouraged to apply. High Growth Robotics Ltd is led by Dominic Keen, a successful British entrepreneur. Having previously floated the software business that he founded on the London Stock Exchange, he now helps exciting ventures to maximise their growth potential. An engineer by background, he is fascinated by robotics and acts as an evangelist in the field. Boyd Carson, CEO of Sapphire Capital Partners LLP commented on the launch: "Robotics represents one of today's most exciting investment themes and investors now have the opportunity to enhance their portfolio with a mixed basket of exciting early-stage robotics businesses whilst also befitting from the significant tax advantages of SEIS". Dominic Keen, CEO of High Growth Robotics Limited, concluded: "I genuinely believe that some of the world's finest robotics businesses are currently being established in the UK and the British Robotics Seed Fund is ideally positioned to ensure that these companies are able to maximise their future success". The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) was designed to boost economic growth in the UK by promoting new enterprise and entrepreneurship, and offers tax efficient investing in return for investment in small and early stage start-up businesses in the UK. Sapphire Capital Partners LLP (Sapphire) is a specialist investment management firm authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority. Sapphire have verified and approved the contents of this announcement for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Act). Sapphire Capital Partners LLP is a specialist investment management firm established to provide, among other services, investment management services and bespoke SEIS and EIS solutions. High Growth Robotics Limited is a business mentoring company that seeks to champion the achievements of robotics start-up across the UK. Its services include: consulting on growth strategies; publicity via presentations and articles; and a think-tank on the use of robotics in public policy.
Stability or cultural vitality: many nations seem as if they can only have one or the other. The Republic of Guinea, for instance, has endured quite a turbulent history, yet its musicians have also enjoyed roles as pioneers in the creation of African popular music styles and as the voice of a new Africa. Thats the view of the University of Melbournes Graeme Counsel, who over the past decade has made a series of trips to the Guinean capital of Conakry on a mission to preserve the great variety of music, part of the tradition now broadly labeled Afropop, recorded during the decades of state-sponsored cultural abundance after the country gained independence from France in 1958.
Under the leadership of music lover President Ahmed Sekou Toure, writes Hyperallergics Allison Meier, the government was soon sending out guitars, saxophones, and brass instruments to 35 state-funded prefecture orchestras as part of a new authenticite policy.
This directive encouraged a cultural revival that mixed traditional sounds with contemporary music, particularly Cuban and Latin rhythms. The effort had its own record label called Syliphone, which recorded and distributed this new Guinean music until the mid-1980s, and the powerful radio signal of Radiodiffusion Television Guinee (RTG) turned listeners on to it well beyond the new countrys borders.
Counsel, already a collector of Syliphone records, discovered during his PhD research in 2001 that the Guinean government still held a collection of that eras music (though a large part of the archive had been destroyed in 1985 when the RTG was bombed by Guinean artillery during an unsuccessful coup). Applying for and receiving, ultimately, three rounds of funding from the British Librarys Endangered Archives Programme, he set about digitizing and cataloging the unexpectedly numerous and perhaps expectedly disorganized and poorly maintained reels of magnetic tape he found, working through bureaucratic hassles, coups detat, and even a massacre.
Nothing would deter me, writes Counsel in a series of essays (part one, part two, part three) on the project, not the authorities indifference towards the sound archive, not the recalcitrance of their attitudes, nor the tragedies of everyday life in Guinea. Nothing. The fruits of his labors have now become available at the British Librarys online Syliphone archive, which boasts over 8,000 Guinean Afropop tracks recorded over 26 years. Meier names among the legendary music it makes available the loose rhythms of the Bembeya Jazz National, the horn-heavy melodies of the Super Boiro Band, the Latin-influenced beats of Orchestre de la Paillote, and the all-women Cuban-infused les Amazones de Guinee. Those musicians names may not ring a bell for you now, but a little time with the archive will guarantee a long-term inability to get their songs out of your head.
Find the 8,000 recordings here.
via Hyperallergic/Electronic Beats
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Based in Seoul, Colin Marshall writes and broadcasts on cities and culture. Hes at work on a book about Los Angeles, A Los Angeles Primer, the video series The City in Cinema, the crowdfunded journalism project Where Is the City of the Future?, and the Los Angeles Review of Books Korea Blog. Follow him on Twitter at @colinmarshall or on Facebook.
Cancer Therapeutics Market is expected to reach USD 170.63 billion by 2022, at a CAGR of 9.2% from 2016 to 2022
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According to the report, Cancer Therapeutics Market, by Therapeutics (Chemotherapy, Hormonal, and Immunotherapy), Types (Prostate Cancer, Blood Cancer, Lung Cancer, Skin Cancer, Gastrointestinal Cancer, and Breast Cancer), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World) - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2014 - 2022, the market for cancer therapeutics is set to witness significant growth during the forecast period.Request a Sample:The cancer therapeutics market report forecasts the growth and revenue trends for the global market. It also offers in-depth analysis of the market drivers, restraints, market share, segmentation, and the key market players.Leaf through our data-driven infographic report on Global Cancer Therapeutics Market:Early Buyers can avail 10% customization on this report.According to the cardiovascular therapeutics market report, the global market is expected to grow at a healthy rate during the forecast period. The increasing prevalence of different types of cancer, the increasing research activities from the multinational companies, the growth in medical tourism, advancing techniques, quick approvals from the drug administration authorities from around the world, and such others are the major driving factors for this market. According to the report, the market segments, such as immunotherapy is expected to witness an impressive rise in demand from different geographic regions. The increased focus on the targeted cancer therapies is also expected to play a significant role in the overall development of the global market.Immunotherapy to become the largest therapeutic segmentThe report segments the cancer therapeutics market by therapeutics, types of cancer, and the major geographic regions. The types of cancer include blood cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, and skin cancer. The therapeutics segments include hormonal, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The major geographic regions of the market include Europe, North America, Asia, Pacific, North America, and the Rest of the World. According to the report, the developing regions of the world are expected to provide potential growth opportunities for the global market. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period.The key players included in the cancer therapeutics market report include Amgen, Inc., Celgene Corporation, Eli Lilly and Company, F.Hoffmann la Roche, GlaxoSmithKline PLC, Johnson and Johnson, Merck & Co., Inc., Novartis AG, Pfizer, Inc., Sanofi SA, and such others. The report anticipates impressive growth for the key market players during the forecast period. This growth is concentrated in the emerging markets. The regions like Asia-Pacific and North America are expected to create strong growth opportunities for the key players in this market.Browse Related Reports:Prescription Pharmaceuticals Market - Therapeutic Segments, Formulations, Geography (2013 - 2020)Orphan Drugs Market - Indication Types and Geography (2014 - 2022)ABOUT US:Scalar Market Research Inc. aspires to assist organizations from around the world to achieve their business goal with premium market research reports and consulting services. Our real-time industry tracking with the help of advanced analytics offers a crystal clear view of all the activities in niche markets. Our team, with thorough global understanding, works relentlessly to gather the necessary market insights, including customer analysis, competitions and global forecast.CONTACT:Moses Nakka8770 W Bryn Mawr Ave.,Suite 1300Chicago, IL 60631Tel.: +1-800-213-5170 (U.S./Canada Toll-free)Email: sales@scalarmarketresearch.com
High or Sudden Rise in the Number of Surgeries Related to Elderly Population Drives the Smoke Evacuation System Market
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Since the past decade, a large number of surgical procedures are moving out of the traditional ways, and they are replaced by minimally invasive techniques which is driving the market of smoke evacuation system globally. Use of electrocautery and electrosurgery devices is unavoidable in minimally invasive surgery which produces surgical smoke. Researchers have found more than 80 organic compounds in surgical smoke such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide that can cause upper respiratory infection, nausea, and other short-term symptoms.Request a PDF Brochure with Report Analysis:Smoke evacuation system has been developed to overcome this problem. The system is intended to remove smoke, aerosol, and noxious odors produced during electrosurgical procedure. Smoke evacuation systems are high-flow vacuum sources used to capture, at the surgical site, the smoke aerosols and gases generated during the use of lasers and electrosurgical units.There are a number of factors that affect the growth of the smoke evacuation system market. Some of the key factors include growth in demand for minimally invasive surgical procedures; development and advancement of energy based electrocautery and ultrasonic devices; and rise in global geriatric population. Other key growth drivers include technological advancements in smoke evacuation system, increase in the number of cosmetic procedures, and high or sudden rise in the number of surgeries related to elderly population.The market is further witnessing restraints, or challenges in its path such as development of other non-invasive surgery technologies, alongside stiff competition among existing smoke evacuation system manufacturers. Moreover, product recalls and government regulations for reduction of overall health care cost are restraining the growth of this market.The global smoke evacuation system market is segmented on the basis of product, application, modality, end-user, and region. Based on product, the smoke evacuation system market is categorized into smoke evacuation filters, pencils & wands, smoke evacuation fusion products, and accessories. The smoke evacuation filters segment is further divided into ULPA filters, HEPA filters, charcoal filters, in-line filters, and pre-filters. The ULPA filters sub-segment is expected to hold a significantly large share of the smoke evacuation filters segment.A significant share of this segment is attributed to technological advancement and extraordinary evacuation capacity as compared to other filters. The smoke evacuation accessories segment comprises adapters, reducers, sensors, and smoke evacuation tubing. Among the accessories, the smoke evacuation tubing sub-segment is expected to account for a significant share in the near future. Rise in number of surgeries performed and recent product launches in this sub-segment is contributing to the large share in this market.On the basis of application, the smoke evacuation system market is divided into electrosurgical devices, electrocautery units, radiofrequency units, ultrasonic devices, laser units, and others. The electrocautery devices segment is anticipated to hold a significant share of the market during the forecast period. Increase in demand for minimally invasive surgeries and rise in geriatric population are expected to fuel the demand for the electrocautery devices segment during the forecast period.Based on modality, smoke evacuation systems are available in portable evacuation systems and centralized evacuation systems. High cost associated with maintenance of centralized evacuation systems and less efficiency as compared to portable evacuation systems are estimated to hamper the growth of the centralized evacuation systems segment. New launches and product innovation in portable evacuation systems are further expected to drive the growth of the market of this segment.On the basis of end-user, the smoke evacuation system market is segmented into hospitals, specialized clinics, and ambulatory surgery centers. The hospitals segment accounted for a major share of the market in 2015 due to increasing demand for electrosurgical devices from corporate hospitals. Globalization of health care and pharmaceutical standards is likely to support the growth of better hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers in developing regions such as Asia Pacific and Latin America. This in turn is expected to propel the growth of the smoke evacuation system market in these regions.Geographically, the global smoke evacuation system market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America is expected to dominate the global smoke evacuation system market during the forecast period. Large geriatric and obese population facing cardiac and orthopedic problems and rise in incidences of cancer are anticipated to drive the market in this region.Asia Pacific has a high growth rate and is expected to offer growth opportunities in this market. Improved health care infrastructure and rise in health care spending by government are estimated to increase adoption of smoke evacuation system in this region.Browse Full Research Report:Key players operating in this market include Bovie Medical Corporation, Medtronic, B. Braun Melsungen AG, Erbe Elektromedizin GmbH, Boston Scientific Corporation, Olympus, Johnson & Johnson, Symmetry Surgical Inc., ConMed Corporation, KLS Martin, and Bowa-electronic GmbH & Co. KG.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Contact UsTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Increasing Number of Infections Leading to Various Health Hazards Drives the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Analyzers Market
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Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) can be defined as the rate at which red blood cells or erythrocytes sediment in a period of one hour. ESR is usually measured in millimeter per hour (mm/hr) and a value above 100 mm/hr indicates a disease condition, such as a disease that causes inflammation, active infection, cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, blood disease, diabetes, and collagen vascular disease. However, ESR is a non-specific test for inflammation and is used in conjunction with other tests such as C-reactive protein.Request a PDF Brochure with Report Analysis:Normal ESR result does not rule out the possibility of inflammation. Similarly, an elevated ESR without any symptoms of the disease does not aid in making any medical decision. ESR analyzers are devices employed to measure the sedimentation rate of erythrocytes for an accurate reading. Automated ESR analyzers need to comply with the 2011-published Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines for measuring ESR. The analyzer works on the basic principle of Westergrens method followed to determine ESR.The ESR analyzers market can be segmented based on modality, end-user, and region. In terms of modality, the market can be segmented into automatic analyzers, semi-automatic analyzers, and manual analyzers. Based on end-user, the ESR analyzers market can be segmented into hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and academic institutions. In terms of region, the ESR analyzers market can be segmented into North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, and Middle East & Africa.ESR is one of the basic hematology tests performed to identify various disease conditions, which would contribute to the growth of the ESR analyzers market. Technological upgrades leading to the development of automated ESR analyzers from manual ESR analyzers would also contribute to the growth of the market. In addition, the increasing number of infections leading to various health hazards would contribute to the rising number of ESR tests, which in turn would drive the ESR analyzers market in the near future.However, the non-specificity of the tests and the necessity for other tests to be performed to confirm the diseased condition could have a negative impact on the ESR analyzers market, as demand for specific tests increases. Furthermore, false negative results of ESR due to the effect of drugs such as oral contraceptives, dextran, methyldopa, penicillamine procainamide, theophylline, vitamin A, aspirin, cortisone, and quinine also make ESR less desirable, thereby impacting the growth of the ESR analyzers market.Automatic analyzers are expected to dominate the ESR analyzers market during the forecast period, owing to their abilities to enhance the workflow and turnaround time. Diagnostic laboratories and hospitals are expected to be the leading segments of the ESR analyzers market. Geographically, North America is expected to be the major market for ESR analyzers. Growth of the market in the region can be attributed to the well-developed health care infrastructure in the region.Asia Pacific is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, owing to increasing infections, evolution of new diseases, and poor sanitation conditions which lead to increased infections among the population. In addition, government focus on enhancing the health care infrastructure and providing better health care facilities to the population contribute to the growth of the ESR analyzers market in Asia Pacific.Browse Full Research Report:Leading players in the ESR analyzers market include Sysmex, R&R Mechatronics International B.V., TRANSASIA Bio Medicals Ltd., Diesse Diagnostica Senese Spa, Vital Diagnostics, Caretium Medical Instruments Co, Limited, Grifols, S.A., Beckman Coulter, Inc., ALCOR Scientific, Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific, Perlong Medical, BPC Biosed Srl, and SFRI.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Contact UsTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
United States, EU, Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia Telemetry Market Size, Status and Forecast 2021
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This report studies the global Telemetry market, analyzes and researches the Telemetry development status and forecast in United States, EU, Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia. This report focuses on the top players in global market, likeSiemens AGGE HealthcareAstro-Med, Inc.Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)Lindsay CorporationPhilips HealthcareRogers Communications, Inc.Schlumberger Ltd.Schneider ElectricSierra Wireless, Inc.Verizon Communications, IncIBM CorpCobham PlcKongsberg GruppenHoneywell International Inc.L-3 Communications Holdings IncFinmeccanica SPATo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Market segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEUJapanChinaIndiaSoutheast AsiaMarket segment by Type, Telemetry can be split intoWire-Link or Wired TelemetryWireless Telemetry SystemsData LoggersAcoustic TelemetryDigital TelemetryMarket segment by Application, Telemetry can be split intoHealthcare/ MedicineEnergy and Power UtilitiesVehicle Telemetry (Telematics)Retail TelemetryAerospace and DefenseAutomation Telemetry (Manufacturing and Process Control)Agriculture Telemetry (Agriculture & Water Management)WildlifeLogistics and TransportationTesting & SecurityBrowse Complete Report with TOC @Table of Contents1 Industry Overview of Telemetry1.1 Telemetry Market Overview1.1.1 Telemetry Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global Telemetry Market Size and Analysis by Regions1.2.1 United States1.2.2 EU1.2.3 Japan1.2.4 China1.2.5 India1.2.6 Southeast Asia1.3 Telemetry Market by Type1.3.1 Wire-Link or Wired Telemetry1.3.2 Wireless Telemetry Systems1.3.3 Data Loggers1.3.4 Acoustic Telemetry1.3.5 Digital Telemetry1.4 Telemetry Market by End Users/Application1.4.1 Healthcare/ Medicine1.4.2 Energy and Power Utilities1.4.3 Vehicle Telemetry (Telematics)1.4.4 Retail Telemetry1.4.5 Aerospace and Defense1.4.6 Automation Telemetry (Manufacturing and Process Control)1.4.7 Agriculture Telemetry (Agriculture & Water Management)1.4.8 Wildlife1.4.9 Logistics and Transportation1.4.10 Testing & Security2 Global Telemetry Competition Analysis by Players2.1 Telemetry Market Size (Value) by Players (2015-2016)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in Future4 Global Telemetry Market Size by Type and Application (2011-2016)4.1 Global Telemetry Market Size by Type (2011-2016)4.2 Global Telemetry Market Size by Application (2011-2016)4.3 Potential Application of Telemetry in Future4.4 Top Consumer/End Users of Telemetry5 United States Telemetry Development Status and Outlook5.1 United States Telemetry Market Size (2011-2016)5.2 United States Telemetry Market Size and Market Share by Players (2015-2016)6 EU Telemetry Development Status and Outlook6.1 EU Telemetry Market Size (2011-2016)6.2 EU Telemetry Market Size and Market Share by Players (2015-2016)7 Japan Telemetry Development Status and Outlook7.1 Japan Telemetry Market Size (2011-2016)7.2 Japan Telemetry Market Size and Market Share by Players (2015-2016)QYResearchReports.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.QYResearchreportsContact Us1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United States+1-518-621-2074866-997-4948USA-Canada Toll freesales@qyresearchreports.com
WAVERLY A trio arrested last month in a credit card scheme at the Waverly Walmart is suspected in similar scams in other parts of Iowa, including Mason City, according to authorities.
Waverly police arrested Liliany Meana DeArmas, 20; Pedro Alvarez Rodriguez, 35 and Dunieski Santana Moreno, 26, on Feb. 1 for six counts of forgery after they were allegedly found using other peoples credit card information to load funds onto gift cards, said Capt. Jason Leonard.
DeArmas was also arrested for fifth-degree theft.
Before they were arrested in Waverly, the three had been at Walmart stores from Sioux City to Mount Pleasant to Cedar Falls to Mason City, Leonard said.
From Jan. 29 to Feb. 1, they literally blanketed the state, Leonard said.
The scheme involved using cloned credit cards that are created by imprinting compromised card information onto the magnetic strip of a blank card.
Those cards were then used at self-checkout stations to load money onto gift cards or prepaid credit cards.
Court records allege the three came to the Waverly store Jan. 31 and returned Feb. 1. Store workers became suspicious when they saw them using multiple cards at the checkout, Leonard said.
Police tracked the three to the Red Fox Inn and searched their room.
All three have Miami, Fla., addresses, and DeArmas and Moreno also have Louisville, Ky. addresses. Leonard said all three are originally from Cuba, DeArmas is a permanent resident and the other two are in country on expired work visas and are being detained.
While the three were caught because clerks noticed suspicious behavior, Leonard said people should watch their credit card billing statements for unfamiliar charges.
Jeff Reinitz writes for the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier, another Lee Enterprises newspaper. Reach him at jeff.reinitz@wcfcourier.com.
A Spotlight on Industry Incentives for New Superdrugs
Superbugs & Superdrugs 2017
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Following on from the growing pressure to develop new antibiotics, SMis 19th annual Superbugs & Superdrugs conference will return to Central London in just under three weeks time with a dedicated spotlight on industry incentives.Using a criteria which examines how deadly the bacteria is and whether new antibiotics to treat them are already in the pipeline, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recently released a list of drug resistant "priority pathogens" - 12 families of bacteria that pose the greatest threat to human health. The WHO said that it hoped the list would spur governments to put in place policies to incentivise the development of new drugs.* Source:The established industry summit on antimicrobial resistance will gather an audience of scientific pioneers and health experts at a significant time for leaders to collaborate and stem the surge of resistant infections.The spotlight on industry incentives will feature a selection of keynote addresses on national research strategy, activities to facilitate drug development, funding opportunities and portfolio partnerships presented by government bodies including the FDA and BARDA.Sumanthi Nambiar, Director of the Division of Anti-Infective Products at the FDA said,"I bring a regulatory perspective to the meeting...we have published guidance, engaged in discussions with key stakeholders and engaged in public private partnerships."Some of those who have confirmed to attend include:Abbott Medical Optics | Aberdeen University | Achaogen | Actelion | AiCuris Anti-infective Cures | Alacrita | Allecra Therapeutics | Antabio | Arsanis Biosciences | Auspherix | BARDA | BioPharm Insight | Chemical Biology Ventures | Colzyx | Da Volterra | Danestat consulting | DeNovaMed | Discuva | Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) | DSTL Porton Down | Eligo Bioscience | Evotec | FDA | GSK | John Innes Centre | JSC R-PHARM | King khaled eye specialist hospital | King's College London | KWS BioTest | Merck | MHRA | Micromyx | Motif Bio | Mrc Technology | Neem Biotech | Novabiotics | Novo AS | PHARMA OMNIUM | Phico Therapeutics | Prince Sultan Medical Military City | Procarta Biosystems | SA Pathology | Seventure Partners | Spero Therapeutics | St George's, University of London | Synthetic Biologics, Inc. | Tiber Creek Partners | TranScrip Partners | University College Cork | University of Cambridge | University of North Texas Health Science Center | X-Biotix Therapeutics | X-Chem | Zambon SpaFurther information is available at:Superbugs & Superdrugs20th & 21st March 2017Copthorne Tara Hotel, London, UKSponsored by MSD and Synthetic Biologics, Inc--- end ---Contact Information:For all media inquiries contact Teri Arri on Tel: +44 (0)20 7827 6162 / Email: tarri@smi-online.co.ukFor delegate inquiries contact Fateja Begum on Tel: +44 (0)20 7827 6184 / Email: fbegum@smi-online.co.ukFor exhibition and sponsorship inquiries contact Alia Malick on Tel: +44 (0)20 7827 6168 / Email: amalick@smi-online.co.ukAbout SMi Group:Established since 1993, the SMi Group is a global event-production company that specializes in Business-to-Business Conferences, Workshops, Masterclasses and online Communities. We create and deliver events in the Defence, Security, Energy, Utilities, Finance and Pharmaceutical industries. We pride ourselves on having access to the worlds most forward thinking opinion leaders and visionaries, allowing us to bring our communities together to Learn, Engage, Share and Network. More information can be found at2 Floor Harling House47-51 Great Suffolk Street
Electronic Toll Collection Market Analysis and Discussion of Important Industry Trends, Market Size, Market Share Estimates and Profiles of the Leading Industry Players
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Research Beam added a report Electronic Toll Collection Global Market Outlook - Trends, Forecast, and Opportunity Assessment (2014-2022)The Global Electronic Toll Collection Market is valued at $5.42 billion in 2014 and is expected to reach $15.62 billion by 2022 growing at a CAGR of 12.71%. The increasing demand for safe and secure infrastructure is boosting the market growth. The factors such as reduction in traffic congestion, low travel time, cashless travel facility and free flow of traffic are driving the Electronic Toll Collection market growth. Whereas, high installation cost, tag maintenance and high dependence on government are some of the factors limiting the market growth. The ETC market is expected to continue its quick expansion to meet the surging demand for an improved, safe and secure infrastructure providing a fast, efficient and cost-effective services.Request for Sample Report @Radio frequency identification (RFID) and dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) are the leading technologies in ETC market and global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and GPS are expected to witness high growth rate during the forecast period. ETC systems have been installed majorly on highways, installation in urban areas and on bridges represents a future opportunity. North America has the largest share in Electronic Toll Collection market followed by Europe. Asia Pacific is expected to have steady growth, whereas RoW represents a high CAGR due to increasing adoption rate of electronic toll collection in regions such as Africa, Middle East and Latin America.Global Electronic Toll Collection market is segmented by technology, by type, by product, by application and by geography. Based on technology, market is segmented into Radio frequency identification (RFID), global navigation satellite system (GNSS)/GPS, dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) and video analytics. Based on type, market is classified into Electronic toll collection (ETC) and All-Electronic Tolling (AET). Based on product, market is segregated into automated vehicle identification (AVI) and automatic vehicle classifier (AVC). Based on application, market is categorized into highway and urban. Market by geography is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.The Key players in the market include, Q-Free, Xerox Corporation, TransCore LP, Thales Group, 3M, Kapsch TrafficCom AG, Cubic Transportation Systems, Inc., Schneider Electric SE and EFKON AG.Request for Discount @What our report offers:- Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments Market share analysis of the top industry players Strategic recommendations for the new entrants Market forecasts for a minimum of 7 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional markets Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations) Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancementsEnquire about Report @Table of Content1 Executive Summary2 Preface3 Market Trend Analysis4 Porters Five Force Analysis5 Global Electronic Toll Collection Market, By Technology5.1 Introduction5.2 Radio frequency identification (RFID)5.3 Global navigation satellite system (GNSS)/GPS5.4 Dedicated short-range communications (DSRC)5.5 Video Analytics6 Global Electronic Toll Collection Market, By Type6.1 Introduction6.2 Electronic toll collection (ETC)6.3 All-Electronic Tolling (AET)6.3.1 Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR)6.3.2 Transponders7 Global Electronic Toll Collection Market, By Product7.1 Introduction7.2 Automated vehicle identification (AVI)7.3 Automatic Vehicle Classifier (AVC)7.4 Others8 Global Electronic Toll Collection Market, By Application8.1 Introduction8.2 Highway8.3 Urban9 Global Electronic Toll Collection Market, By GeographyAbout Us:With the arsenal of different search reports, Research Beam helps you here to look and buy research reports that will be helpful to you and your organization. Our research reports have the capability and authenticity to support your organization for growth and consistency. With the window of opportunity getting open and shut at a speed of light, it has become very important to survive in the market and only the fittest and competent enough can do so. So, we try and provide with latest changes in the market that can suit your needs and help you take decision accordingly.Contact Us:5933 NE Win Severs Drive,#205, Portland, OR 97220United StatesU.S. & Canada Toll Free: + 1-800-910-6452International: + 1-503-894-6022UK: + 44-845-528-1300India: +91 20 66346070Fax: +1 (855) 550-5975Email: help@researchbeam.comWeb:
Home Health Care Market 2016 - 2024; Key Trends and Opportunities
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Global Home Health Care Market: OverviewThe global home health care market is likely to exhibit impressive growth in the next few years. Home health care offers various services to patients in the comfort of their home. Home health care has been growing in popularity for the treatment of minor injuries and illnesses among patients, as it is less expensive and as effective as hospital-based medical care.In an increasingly mobile and independent world, health care services alone remain rooted in a professionally controlled and centralized setting. However, the paradigm change in consumer preference to avail quality services from the comforts of their home is necessitating decentralization of health care services to ensure convenience and care to patients. The market study presents insights into the emerging trends in the home health care market and discusses the factors fueling demand in the key market segments.Read Full Report:The research report provides a comprehensive overview of the global home health care market and analyzes the challenges and opportunities that this market may witness during the forecast period. The report identifies the services and software segments exhibiting high CAGRs, besides exploring the opportunities demonstrated by the most lucrative regional markets. Innovations in telehealth technology and its influence on the overall market dynamics is also evaluated in the report.Global Home Health Care Market: Key Trends and OpportunitiesRising global geriatric population, increasing incidence of chronic ailments, favorable government initiatives, and growing demand for affordable health care delivery systems are the key factors fueling demand in the global home health care market. On the other hand, inadequate insurance coverage, changing reimbursement policies, and rising patient safety concerns are the major restraints of the market.The global home health care market is primarily driven by significant demand for testing, monitoring, and screening products; mobility care products, and other therapeutic products. Of these, demand for products used in the testing or diagnosis of diseases is rising. For instance, having portable devices such as blood pressure monitors, heart monitoring systems, HIV test kits, pulse oximeters, peak flow meters, and ovulation and pregnancy kits at the disposal of a patient is essential to ensure that patient care is provided at their homes efficiently. However, the products needed may vary from one patient to another depending upon their ailment and present condition. Similarly, demand for mobility care products such as crutches, mobility scooters, cranes, and walkers is rising due to market expansion of home health care.Download exclusive Sample of this report:The home health care market comprises services such as rehabilitation services, unskilled care services, infusion therapy services, respiratory therapy services, skilled care services, pregnancy care services, and palliative care and hospice. Demand for infusion services is increasing rapidly across the world.The most common delivery modes adopted in home health care are on-premise, web-based, and cloud-based. Rise in demand for improved security and accessibility drives the cloud-based delivery segment. Furthermore, the rapid proliferation of cloud computing in the health care industry is aimed at reducing the burden on the health care system. This fuels demand for cloud-based delivery.Global Home Health Care Market: Regional OutlookNorth America is the most lucrative market for home health care. Implementation of favorable government policies and reimbursements for devices and services are likely to boost the growth of the home health care market in North America.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a U.S.-based provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact us:Transparency Market Research90 State Street,Suite 700,AlbanyNY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Corneal Neovascularization Market 2016 - 2024; Regional markets, technology, types, and applications
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Global Corneal Neovascularization Market: OutlookCorneal neovascularization is a disorder of the eyes, which is mainly characterized by the incursion of novel blood vessels into the cornea of the individuals suffering from the disease. This disorder is majorly caused due to disruption of the balance between the factors that protects and maintain the corneal transparency. The two factors that need to be balanced include angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors. The incursion of new blood vessels, which are relatively immature, hence can cause lipid exudation as well. Other major symptoms include scarring in eyes, persistent inflammation, which leads to diminishing corneal transparency and visual perception. The corneal neovascularization disorders if left untreated it may lead to high growth of new blood vessels that may reach visual axis to permanently threat the vision of the affected individual. Presently, several patients suffering from various eye problems, many a times undergo corneal grafts; corneal neovascularization may lead to rejection of such grafts as well. Thus, timely and proper treatment (may include surgical intervention and therapeutic drugs) of corneal neovascularization is necessary for effective management of the disease to ensure proper eye vision.Read Full Report:Global Corneal Neovascularization Market: Drivers and RestraintsMajor driving factors for the growth of corneal neovascularization market include increasing incidences of ophthalmic disorders, rising number of corneal grafts, aging population, increasing obesity rate, increasing number of diseases such as diabetes and hypertension and increasing demand for advanced treatment options. Ophthalmic disorders are one of the leading disorders that affect very large population globally; several eye related disorders require ophthalmic interventions that may increase the risk of developing corneal neovascularization, hence accompanied by graft rejections. Increasing geriatric population will also contribute towards the growth of this market as aged individuals are more prone to several disorders and hence, tend to suffer from ophthalmic disorders. Increasing obesity rates are also adding to various eye related disorders mainly the lipid deposition increase the chances of developing corneal neovascularization, hence will contribute towards the growth of this market. Several diseases like diabetes, hypertension and others also lead to ophthalmic diseases, in turn require diagnostics and therapeutics from this market, thus will contribute towards the growth of corneal neovascularization market. Several pharmaceutical companies are having many therapeutic drugs for the effective treatment of this disorder in different phases of clinical trials, which will soon hit the market.Global Corneal Neovascularization Market: Regional AnalysisGeographically, North America and Europe are expected to dominate the corneal neovascularization market. Major factors responsible for their expected dominance in the corneal neovascularization market are high prevalence of ophthalmic disorders in the region, aging population, rising overweight as well obese population, and high awareness levels of the population. However, emerging economies like China, India, Brazil, Mexico, Russia, and Malaysia among others from Asia-Pacific, LATAM, Middle East and other regions will present tremendous opportunities towards the growth of this market. Major factors responsible for the growth of the corneal neovascularization market in these regions are availability of high patient population, high prevalence of diseases like diabetes and hypertension, increasing healthcare awareness in these regions and increasing purchasing power of the people in APAC and RoW.Download exclusive Sample of this report:Global Corneal Neovascularization Market: Companies Mentioned in the ReportSome of the major players operating in this market include, Amakem NV, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., GTx, Inc., and Sirnaomics, Inc. that have their drugs in different phases of clinical trials, which will soon be commercialized in the global corneal neovascularization market.The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a U.S.-based provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact us:Transparency Market Research90 State Street,Suite 700,AlbanyNY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Ice Cream Makers 2017 Global Key Players -TAYLOR, Carpigiani, Electro Freeze, Gram Equipment, Stoelting, Nissei Market Analysis and Forecast to 2022
Ice Cream Makers
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Ice Cream MakersReport DetailsGlobal Ice Cream Makers market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, and revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingTAYLORCarpigianiElectro FreezeGram EquipmentStoeltingNisseiBravoFrigomatCAPLEUnoldCuisinartDONPERSpacemanDeLonghiGuangshenShanghai LisongShanghai LisongMKKJiangmen JinglingHommy EnterpriseJiangsu XuemeiClick here for sample report @Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Ice Cream Makers in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndia On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoSoft Ice Cream MakersHard Ice Cream MakersOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate of Ice Cream Makers for each application, includingCommercial UseHouseholdOther.......Some Major Points from Table of content:Global Ice Cream Makers Market Research Report 20171 Ice Cream Makers Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Ice Cream Makers1.2 Ice Cream Makers Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Ice Cream Makers Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category) (2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Ice Cream Makers Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Soft Ice Cream Makers1.2.4 Hard Ice Cream Makers1.3 Global Ice Cream Makers Segment by Application1.3.1 Ice Cream Makers Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Commercial Use1.3.3 Household1.3.4 Other1.4 Global Ice Cream Makers Market by Region (2012-2022)1.4.1 Global Ice Cream Makers Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Ice Cream Makers (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Ice Cream Makers Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Ice Cream Makers Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)For Detailed Reading Please visit @7 Global Ice Cream Makers Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 TAYLOR7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Ice Cream Makers Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 TAYLOR Ice Cream Makers Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Carpigiani7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Ice Cream Makers Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 Carpigiani Ice Cream Makers Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 Electro Freeze7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Ice Cream Makers Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 Electro Freeze Ice Cream Makers Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Gram Equipment7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.4.2 Ice Cream Makers Product Category, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Product A7.4.2.2 Product B7.4.3 Gram Equipment Ice Cream Makers Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.5 Stoelting7.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.5.2 Ice Cream Makers Product Category, Application and Specification7.5.2.1 Product A7.5.2.2 Product B7.5.3 Stoelting Ice Cream Makers Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.6 Nissei7.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.6.2 Ice Cream Makers Product Category, Application and Specification..ContinuedBuy now @Contact Us:NORAH TRENTPartner Relations & Marketing Managersales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)About UsWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available.WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPh: +91 841 198 5042info@wiseguyreports.com
COMPRION eUICC Profile Manager Supporting Phase Two of GSMA Specifications for Consumer Devices
COMPRIONs modular tool for efficient eUICC life-cycle management now supports phase 2 of the GSMA specifications for consumer devices. Phase 2 of SGP.21 and SGP.22 will be the new basis for worldwide interoperability of Remote SIM Provisioning for consumer devices. The eUICC Profile Manager for phase 2 will be introduced at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.The eUICC Profile Manager is a tool designed for mobile network operators, card manufacturers, system integrators, or service providers. Jens Christoph, Director for eUICC Test Solutions at COMPRION explains: It helps engineers coding eUICC profiles to easily load the defined profile onto the card. As the tool is very convenient to use, it prepares the eUICC for further usage or testing.The software consists of two components. The Profile Loader can be used to load, enable, disable, or delete profiles of M2M or consumer device eUICCs. With the Profile Explorer option, users can scan and update already provisioned profiles using remote file and application management (RFM and RAM) procedures.The eUICC Profile Manager is compliant to both the latest version of the GSMA M2M specification SGP.02 V3.1 and the Consumer Device specification SGP.22 V2.0.All relevant transport channels, secure channel protocols, and all subscription management servers of both GSMA eUICC realms are covered, which makes eUICC Profile Manager an essential all-round tool for anyone working with eUICCs.COMPRION is the worldwide leading manufacturer of test solutions for smart card interfaces, terminals, and smart cards. Covering contact-based and contactless technologies COMPRION provides their expertise to multiple industries, especially telecommunications, payments, and M2M. Our involvement in a number of standardization and certification bodies enables us to integrate the latest standards and requirements into our high quality products. As COMPRION test systems are renowned for the most accurate measurement capabilities, the company serves all top mobile phone, terminal, card and chipset manufacturers as well as mobile network operators and test houses. COMPRION also acts as technological consultant supporting many key players in the market.Kathleen KnievelCorporate Marketing ManagerTel: +49 5251 6859 0E-Mail: press@comprion.comCOMPRION GmbHTechnologiepark 2533100 PaderbornGermany
HVAC Equipment Market to Reach US$ 155.0 Billion by 2022
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Florida, March 02: Market Research Engine adds a new research study on the report, titled HVAC Equipment Market (Equipment Type: Heating (Heat Pumps, Furnaces, Unitary Heaters, Boilers), Air Conditioning (Room Air Conditioners, Unitary Air Conditioners, Coolers and Others), Ventilation (Ventilation Fans/Air Pumps, Humidifier/Dehumidifiers); End-use Application: Residential, Commercial, Industrial) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2015 - 2022, it states that the HVAC market will register a healthy growth rate of 6.20% CAGR between 2014 and 2022, the HVAC equipment market is likely to rise from a value of US$91.3 billion in 2013 to US$155.1 billion by 2022.You can view the full report here:Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) equipment is an indoor and vehicular technology for environmental comfort. It is a sub-division of mechanical engineering involving thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer. Nowadays, HVAC equipment is essentially installed at large industrial and commercial infrastructures to regulate temperature and humidity. It then provides fresh outdoor air and eliminates contamination.The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment market has further been segmented based on type such as heating (heat pumps, furnaces, unitary heaters and boilers), air conditioning (room air conditioners, unitary air conditioners and coolers and others) and ventilation (ventilation fans/air pumps and humidifiers/dehumidifiers. The study provides forecast and estimates market for each type in terms of revenue and volume during the forecast period from 2015 to 2021. Each type has been further analyzed based on regional and country levels from 2014 to 2021 in terms of volume and revenue.The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment market has been segmented based on applications such as residential, commercial and industrial. The study provides forecast and estimates market for each application in terms of revenue and volume during the forecast period from 2015 to 2021. Each application has been further analyzed based on regional and country levels from 2014 to 2021 in terms of volume and revenue.In terms of geography, the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning HVAC equipment market has been segmented into regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. The study provides a detailed view of country-level aspects of the market on the basis of application segments and estimates the market in terms of revenue and volume during the forecast period.The report also offers a competitive landscape of the overall market with company profiles of players such as AB Electrolux, Daikin Industries. Ltd., Haier Inc., Lennox International Inc., LG Corporation, Panasonic Corporation, Samsung Electronics and United Technologies Corporation (Carrier).Download Free Sample Report:SEGMENTATIONS IN REPORT:Heating, Ventilation, And Air Conditioning (HVAC) Equipment By Types: Heating Heat Pumps Furnaces Unitary Heaters Boilers Air Conditioning Room Air Conditioners Unitary Air Conditioners Coolers and Others Ventilation Ventilation Fans/Air Pumps Humidifiers/DehumidifiersHeating, Ventilation, And Air Conditioning (HVAC) Equipment By Applications: Residential CommercialIndustrial Heating, Ventilation, And Air Conditioning (HVAC) Equipment By Geography: Asia Pacific North America Europe Latin America Middle East And AfricaAbout Market Research EngineMarket Research Engine is a global market research and consulting organization. We provide market intelligence in emerging, niche technologies and markets. Our market analysis powered by rigorous methodology and quality metrics provide information and forecasts across emerging markets, emerging technologies and emerging business models. Our deep focus on industry verticals and country reports help our clients to identify opportunities and develop business strategies.Contact:Company Name: Market Research EngineContact Person: John BayEmail: john@marketresearchengine.comToll Free No.: +1 855 984 1862Phone: +91 860 565 7204Website:Address: 3422 SW 15 Street, Suite #8942, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442, United States
Internet of Things: Artista-IoT makes displays smart
Artista-IoT Starterkit with Tianma 10,1 inch Super Fine TFT display and PCAP Multi Touchscreen
www.datadisplay-group.com
http://www.distec.de
www.distec.de
www.datadisplay-group.com
Distec presents Raspberry PI-based TFT controller for cost-efficient industry 4.0 applicationsDistec - leading German specialist for TFT flat screens and system solutions for industrial and multimedia applications, adds a new member to the proven Artista TFT controller family: the Artista-IoT for Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT). This new TFT controller is a BaseBoard with a socket for the latest generation of the Raspberry PI Compute Module (CM3). "The Artista-IoT is only a simple TFT controller, but the perfect basis for cost-efficient IoT and Industry 4.0 applications," explained Matthias Keller, Head of Sales and Marketing at Distec GmbH. "Internet of Things is the keyword and a costly PC with a lot of peripherals is now superfluous: our solution enables us to network almost every device intelligently, without any license costs." The Artista-IoT allows the direct connection of almost all common TFT types without additional hardware. The powerful processor (BCM2837, QuadCore, 1.2 GHz) opens up many new applications at a very attractive price. Distec can provide individual solutions for: Industrial HMI, medical, aviation, digital signage, and digital whiteboard.Projects made easyThe new controller can be easily integrated into existing Windows and Linux environments and can be adapted to suit individual needs. Distec offers a starter set consisting of BaseBoard, CM3, 10.1-inch Super Fine TFT display with PCAP Multi-Touch and all necessary cables. This kit supports developers to start their own projects in a fast and uncomplicated way. The pre-installed Raspbian ensures a quick setup and also gives access to a large community support network.Comprehensive functionalityThe Artista-IoT is based on a full-fledged scaler chip and controls almost every TFT display and modern PCAP multi-touch screens directly. The controller board allows special functions such as DICOM pre-set, gamma correction and color calibration. It supports Gigabit Ethernet and provides a real-time clock. Available interfaces include USB, GPIOs, IC and UART. Long-term availability is at least six years. On the basis of the Artista-IoT, Distec already offers standard solutions for a wide range of applications. From the second quarter of 2017, Distec will provide the following solutions: the Artista-IoT series, starter kits, VideoPoster-IV and Raspbian as a basis for customer-specific software developments such as mediaplayers. From the third quarter of 2017, the WebPoster and integration into the POS-Line series will be added.About DistecDistec is a company of the Data Display Group (), the worldwide operating specialist for TFT flat screen and system solutions for industrial, multimedia and digital signage applications. Located in Germering near Munich in Germany, the company designs, produces and sells innovative solutions and a full range components, displays and services. Data Display Group supplies innovative Green IT solutions based on their hardware platforms and their own software to control the TFTs of partners Samsung, Innolux, Kyocera, and Mitsubishi as well as selected panels from other manufacturers. These system solutions - from assemblies and kits up to finished OEM products - are developed in their own R&D centers in Germering (Germany) and Ronkonkoma (NY/USA). The range of services includes customized developments and adaptations, product finishing and assembly of monitoring systems as well as the production of finished products and a complete after-sales service with RMA, repair and technical support. Since 01/01/2016, Distec is a member of the Fortec Group with access to products, services, and expertise of a large high-tech company network, which makes a perfect complement to the product portfolio. More information can be found on the homepage:Products from Data Display Group are available at:Europe: Distec GmbH, Germering,UK and Benelux: Display Technology, Rochester,Turkey and Middle East: DATA DISPLAY BILISIM TEKNOLOJILERI LTD STi., IstanbulMedia Contact:Mandy AhlendorfT +49 8151 9739098E ma@ahlendorf-communication.comDistec GmbHAugsburger Strae 2b82110 GermeringGermanyT +49 89 89 43 63 0F +49 89 89 43 63 131E distribution|at|distec.deA company of the Data Display Group:
Antidepressant digital therapy (deprexis) effective in the US
Deprexis effective in the U.S.
http://gaia-group.com/en
New trial confirms effectiveness of Gaia AGs computer-based therapy deprexis with impressive effect size.Hamburg, Germany: GAIA AG, a global pioneer in digital therapy, announced today that deprexis, a software developed by Gaia, has been demonstrated to be effective in a scientific study in the US.A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with N = 376 depressed adults, published in the latest issue of the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, has confirmed that deprexis is effective in the United States. The trial was led by Professor Christopher Beevers, Director of the Institute of Mental Health Research at the University of Texas, Austin. With an impressive effect size of d=0.80 (large effect), the study provides evidence that deprexis is at least as effective in the United States as in seven previous Europe-based trials.The researchers concluded that participants who received deprexis had a 12 times greater likelihood of experiencing at least 50% symptom improvement compared with waitlist control. The deprexis effect was also replicated in the control group: After they received access to deprexis, similar depression reductions as those in the immediate treatment group were observed, confirming the robustness of the deprexis effect.The results of this trial provide even more scientific evidence for the effectiveness of our digital therapeutics, now specifically in the US, said Mario Weiss, CEO and founder of GAIA. Several thousand patients have now taken part in deprexis studies around the world. We believe it is necessary to go to such lengths so that physicians, psychotherapists and patients can be confident they are using an effective tool. Deprexis is globally licensed to Servier, except in the USA and Japan.GAIA is a global leader in digital therapeutics with a broad pipeline of products at different development stages. With its declared focus on research and development of evidence-based online interventions, the company continuously shifts benchmarks when it comes to efficacy and safety profiles for digital therapeutics in neuroscience. With more than 100 experts in the fields of medicine, psychology, behavioral medicine, software engineering, as well as regulatory and market access, GAIA is a key partner in the development of next-generation digital solutions to support and treat patients with a broad variety of medical conditions.More information:###GAIA AGGertigstrasse 12-1422303 HamburgGermany+49 40 3510520info@gaia-group.com
Global Electron Microscopy Market Research Report 2017 Analysis and Forecast 2022
Electron Microscopy
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Electron MicroscopyCovered in this Report:Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Electron Microscopy in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringUnited StatesEUChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanGlobal Electron Microscopy market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingBio-Rad LaboratoriesBruker CorporationCarl Zeiss AGDanaher CorporationDanish Micro EngineeringFEI Co.Hitachi High-Technologies CorporationJeol LtdNikon CorporationOlympus CorporationLeica Microsystems GmbHTo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoTransmission Electron MicroscopeScanning Electron MicroscopeOthersOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate of Electron Microscopy for each application, includingHospitalsUniversitiesAcademic InstitutionsOthersTo get complete copy of report visit @Key Points in Table Of ContentGlobal Electron Microscopy Market Research Report 20171 Electron Microscopy Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Electron Microscopy1.2 Electron Microscopy Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Electron Microscopy Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category) (2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Electron Microscopy Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Transmission Electron Microscope1.2.4 Scanning Electron Microscope1.2.5 Others1.3 Global Electron Microscopy Segment by Application1.3.1 Electron Microscopy Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Hospitals1.3.3 Universities1.3.4 Academic Institutions1.3.5 Others1.4 Global Electron Microscopy Market by Region (2012-2022)1.4.1 Global Electron Microscopy Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 United States Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 EU Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 South Korea Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 Taiwan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Electron Microscopy (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Electron Microscopy Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)2 Global Electron Microscopy Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.1 Global Electron Microscopy Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.1.2 Global Electron Microscopy Production and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.2 Global Electron Microscopy Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.3 Global Electron Microscopy Average Price by Manufacturers (2012-2017)2.4 Manufacturers Electron Microscopy Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Electron Microscopy Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Electron Microscopy Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Electron Microscopy Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion3 Global Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2012-2017)3.1 Global Electron Microscopy Capacity and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.2 Global Electron Microscopy Production and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.3 Global Electron Microscopy Revenue (Value) and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.4 Global Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.5 United States Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.6 EU Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.7 China Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.8 Japan Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.9 South Korea Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)3.10 Taiwan Electron Microscopy Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)...... Continued...To Purchase Report visit @Contact Us:Norah TrentPartner Relations & Marketing ManagerSales@Wiseguyreports.ComPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)Follow on LinkedIn:Subscribe Our YouTube Channel @Click Here For More DetailsABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
NORA SPRINGS | A Nora Springs man has been ordered to spend up to five years in prison for possession of a firearm as a domestic violence offender.
Aron Bierl, 30, pleaded guilty to that felony charge in November. He was sentenced this week in Floyd County District Court.
Bierl's attorney, Nellie O'Mara, has filed a notice of appeal. She did not return a call Thursday or reply to an email Friday from the Globe Gazette requesting comment on the grounds for the appeal.
Bierl had two separate protective orders filed against him at the time a gun was found in his home on March 13, 2016, according to court documents.
Under Iowa law those who have a protective order filed against them or have been convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence are not allowed to have firearms.
Bierl worked as a correctional officer for the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff's Office from July 2012 until his resignation in July 2015, according to Sheriff Kevin Pals.
In an interview with the Globe Gazette during a protest outside the Pole Barn exotic dance club in Nora Springs nine days before the gun was found in his home, Bierl identified himself as a part-time bouncer at the business.
Before pleading guilty to the firearms charge, Bierl's attorney filed a motion to suppress evidence, claiming an officer located the gun during an illegal search.
Two Nora Springs police officers went to Bierl's home after an anonymous caller reported two children were there alone, according to court documents. One of the children let them in.
One of the officers went to the Pole Barn to get the children's mother, who was reportedly working there.
The other officer, Chuck Bengtson, who said he had heard other individuals had been seen coming in and out of the house, did a sweep of the residence for safety reasons to see if anyone else was present, court documents state.
Bengtson found a gun in a closet that he said had a partially-opened door.
The motion to suppress stated Bengtson did not have the right to search the home because he didn't have a warrant and the door to the closet was completely closed and had to be opened, which meant the gun was not in plain view.
The defense claimed safety concerns were used as an excuse to search the house, noting officers were at the home for a considerable amount of time before the sweep was conducted.
In his motion denying the motion to suppress, District Associate Judge Peter Newell stated Bengtson's search of the home was limited in scope.
He also stated the need to ensure officer safety and determine if the children were in fact home alone "greatly outweighed" the minimal intrusion on Bierl's privacy.
Systech Illinois display their OTR and WVTR Permeation Range at Interpack 2017.
www.systechillinois.com
Rapid Bottle Oxygen Permeation Analyser will be on display at Interpack 2017.We are looking forward to participating at Interpack 2017, the leading trade fair for the packaging industry. Interpack is the essential event for the food, bakery, pharmaceutical, cosmetics non-foods and industrial goods sectors. No other trade fair in the world presents the entire supply chain. At no other trade fair does the packaging industry provide all sectors with tailored solutions and innovative designs based on such a variety of materials, and it is, of course, THE event for the packaging industry.Processing and packaging. Distribution, consumer protection and protection against product piracy. Protection against contamination, deterioration or damage and for proper handling the challenges are huge and only an overall approach can meet the demands set by old and new markets, social change, evolving consumer habits and rapidly developing trends and ensure success across the board.Amongst Systech Illinois display of packaging gas analysers will be the new DualPerm, combination OTR and WVTR permeation station and the 8700, multiple bottle oxygen permeation analyser.The 8700 oxygen permeation analyser offers an exceptionally fast Turbopurge feature which allows up to 11 bottles to be tested in 3 to 12 hours providing much greater production throughput. It has the ability, to test a variety of samples; bottles, packages and films and the software capability to allow individual packages to be started, stopped or delayed during testing. Custom made adaptors are available for a wide range of applications such as complete package testing, including bottles with closures. The 8700 is ideal for use in beer bottle manufacturing where oxygen permeability testing is essential, as permeation of oxygen barriers has a significant influence on shelf life integrity.Systech have been designing and manufacturing oxygen permeation and water vapour permeation analysers for many years offering reliable and versatile testing of all films, packages and bottles. Our leading permeation instruments deliver: the fastest permeation results; extremely fast purge down time; accurate readings at the lowest levels and the highest quality sensor on the market.Please come and visit us at Interpack, Dusseldorf, Hall 5 Stand A29Systech Illinois specialises in online, portable and laboratory gas analysis equipment. With 30 years as one of the leading experts in gas and moisture measurement, Systech Illinois' application and technology knowledge provides efficient gas analysis solutions in many industry sectors worldwide.For the packaging industry, Systechs oxygen permeation and water vapour permeation analysers offer testing of all packaging film, finished package and PET bottles. Systechs headspace range provides fast, easy to use, accurate gas analysis of gas flushed food packages and headspace analysis of food and pharmaceutical packaging.For the process industry, Systech offer a wide range of gas analysis solutions including measurement of moisture, oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen and many other gases. In addition, Systech manufacture intrinsically safe units for use in hazardous areas.Systech Illinois is a multinational company with offices and gas analysis equipment manufacturing facilities in the UK and the U.S. Systech is very proud of its well developed and well trained workforce, which enables it to offer customers a continuing high level of service, and become known globally as a leading supplier of gas analysis instrumentation.Systech IllinoisBeth FaulknerPhone: +44 01844 216838Web:Systech Illinois17 Thame Park Business CentreWenman RoadThameOX9 3XA
Telecom API Market to Reach US$ 325 Billion by 2022
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New York, March 02: Market Research Engine has published a new report titled as Global Telecom API Market Analysis by Service, End User, Size, Share, Geography, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2015 - 2022.The global telecom API market will grow at CAGR of 24% from 2015 to 2022 and it is expected to reach US$325 Billion by 2022.Browse the full report here:The global mobile application development community is becoming more aware of Telecom Application Programming Interface (API) as a means of accessing data for a variety of services.Telecom API market speaks to a general Application Programming Interface (API) services provided by telecom carriers, service providers and aggregators to application designers keeping in mind the end goal to make user friendly mobile applications. Telecom API offers application designers to coordinate different administrations, for example, payment integration, some assistance with voicing, SMS and WebRTC into their mobile application. This helps application engineers to upgrade their client experience and advertise their mobile applications among their end-clients. Telecom API gives numerous advantages to telecom bearers as income era and upgrading end-client experience. Telecom API confronts rivalry from Over-The-Top (OTT) administration suppliers and because of developing selection of open API stage. Notwithstanding, the expanding appropriation of M2M gadgets among end-clients is foreseen to help the business sector for telecom API in coming years.The telecom API market is categorized based on service types into payment, SMS, MMS and RCS, maps and location, voice/speech, identity management, WebRTC and others. Further, the research report provides complete insights into different users of telecom API such as enterprise developers, internal telecom developers, partner developer and long tail developers. The report analyzes each of these segments for various geographies considered under the scope of the study.Download Free Sample Report:Scope of the Report:The report includes detail company profiles of the major companies which are providing telecom API services.Key business strategies adopted by these companies, their market positioning, and various recent developments have also been identified in this research report.The global telecom API market is segmented as below:By Service Type Payment SMS, MMS and RCS Maps and Location Voice/Speech Identity Management WebRTC Others (Device Information and Do Not Disturb)By User Type Enterprise Developer Internal Telecom Developer Partner Developer Long Tail DeveloperBy Geography North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East and AfricaFurthermore, the report analyzes factors that drive and restrain the growth of telecom API market. The report also discusses the prevailing market trends, prospective growth opportunities, and major strategies resulting in the popularity of telecom API services. It also provides the market estimates and forecasts for all the segments in terms of revenue. Also provided in the report is the market positioning of key players in the global telecom API market.The key market players profiled in this study include telecom carriers, aggregators and service providers. The major telecom carriers providing telecom APIs profiled in the report include AT&T, Inc. and Orange. The major service providers and aggregators of telecom API profiled in the study are Apigee Corp., LocationSmart, Alcatel-Lucent, Twilio, Inc., Tropo, Inc. (Cisco, Inc.), Aepona Ltd. (An Intel Company), Fortumo OU, Nexmo, Inc. and Comverse, Inc.About MarketResearchEngine.comMarket Research Engine is a global market research and consulting organization. We provide market intelligence in emerging niche technologies and markets. Our market analysis powered by rigorous methodology and quality metrics provide information and forecasts across emerging markets, emerging technologies and emerging business models. Our deep focus on industry verticals and country reports help our clients to identify opportunities and develop business strategies.Media ContactCompany Name: Market Research EngineContact Person: John BayEmail: john@marketresearchengine.comPhone: +1-855-984-1862, +91-860-565-7204Website:Address: 3422 SW 15 Street, Suite #8942, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442, United States
Global Portable Toilets Market Research Report and Forecast 2017 to 2022
Portable Toilets Market
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Portable Toilets MarketSummaryWiseguyreports.Com Adds Portable Toilets -Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities and analysis of Top Regions Forecast to 2021 To Its Research DatabaseGeographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Portable Toilets in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGlobal Portable Toilets market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingSatelliteShorelinkArmalSanitechADCO International...For Sample report @On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoLifting or Handling Moving ToiletsPower or Trailer Mobile ToiletsOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate of Portable Toilets for each application, includingConstruction SitesFactoriesTourist AttractionsStreetsSquaresStationsDocksOthersEnquiry before buying @Table of ContentsGlobal Portable Toilets Market Research Report 20171 Portable Toilets Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Portable Toilets1.2 Portable Toilets Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Portable Toilets Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category) (2012-2022)1.2.2 Global Portable Toilets Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Lifting or Handling Moving Toilets1.2.4 Power or Trailer Mobile Toilets1.3 Global Portable Toilets Segment by Application1.3.1 Portable Toilets Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Construction Sites1.3.3 Factories1.3.4 Tourist Attractions1.3.5 Streets1.3.6 Squares1.3.7 Stations1.3.8 Docks1.3.9 Others1.4 Global Portable Toilets Market by Region (2012-2022)1.4.1 Global Portable Toilets Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Portable Toilets (2012-2022)1.5.1 Global Portable Toilets Revenue Status and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5.2 Global Portable Toilets Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2012-2022)..7 Global Portable Toilets Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 Satellite7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Portable Toilets Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 Satellite Portable Toilets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Shorelink7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Portable Toilets Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 Shorelink Portable Toilets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 Armal7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Portable Toilets Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 Armal Portable Toilets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Sanitech7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.4.2 Portable Toilets Product Category, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Product A7.4.2.2 Product B7.4.3 Sanitech Portable Toilets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.5 ADCO International7.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.5.2 Portable Toilets Product Category, Application and Specification7.5.2.1 Product A7.5.2.2 Product B7.5.3 ADCO International Portable Toilets Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2012-2017)7.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview.....Buy This Report @Continued...Contact Us:NORAH TRENTSales@Wiseguyreports.ComPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRES:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
Tasting Journey of Ireland: Beyond Corned Beef & Guinness
www.bcae.org
www.bcae.org
Join Boston Center for Adult Education for an Authentic Tasting ClassWHAT: Celebrate St. Patricks Day with the Boston Center for Adult Education (BCAE) and immerse yourself in the rich food, culture and history of Ireland during the BCAEs new class, Tasting Journey of Ireland: Beyond Corned Beef & Guinness led by BCAEs Genevieve Forde.On Thursday, March 16th, 2017 from 7:00PM 9:00PM, students will taste and experience authentic Irish products and dishes, including mussels in Irish Cider, Irish roasted salmon, chocolate stout cupcakes and more. Dont miss this opportunity to learn about the Emerald Isle from a food lovers perspective without having to purchase a plane ticket! For more information or to secure a spot in the class, please visitor call the BCAE at 617-267-4430.WHERE: Boston Center for Adult Education, 122 Arlington Street, Boston, MA 02116 | 617-267-4430WHEN: Thursday, March 16th, 2017, from 7:00PM 9:00PMCOST: Tuition: $55 | Member Cost: $47.00 | Material Cost $25.00RSVP: Secure your spot online ator call the BCAE at 617.267.4430.About the Boston Center for Adult Education:Founded in 1933, the Boston Center for Adult Education (BCAE) is the first, nonprofit adult education center in New England. The Boston Center for Adult Education serves as a meeting place for the Boston community to gather, learn, discuss and create. The BCAE offers educational classes taught by well-qualified leaders, staff, and volunteers who share the mission of enhancing our community. Today the BCAE offers classes for almost every interest. Students can experience everything from yoga, photography, belly dancing, and stand-up comedy, to scotch tasting, cooking, achieving financial freedom, and much more. At their recently renovated headquarters on Arlington Street (Boston, MA) you'll find professional grade kitchens, top-notch technology, versatile classroom space and free Wi-fi. The BCAE offers a variety of personal and corporate membership levels with benefits including discounted tuition costs and discounts on local retailers. Browse classes, become a member, or support the BCAE online at bcae.org. The BCAE is located at 122 Arlington Street, Boston MA 02116. The BCAE administrative offices are open Monday- Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. The Student Services office is open Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM and Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. The BCAE is open on weekends during class times only.###Boston Center for Adult Education, 122 Arlington Street, Boston, MA 02116 | 617-267-4430
North Florida Land Trust welcomes new Development Director to their team
www.northfloridalandtrust.org
Jacksonville, Fla., March 2, 2017 North Florida Land Trust is pleased to announce Dana Doody has joined their team as a development director. Doody will lead the fundraising arm of the nonprofit organization. She will be working closely with NFLT President Jim McCarthy to expand the donor base and will be responsible for promoting NFLTs programs throughout Northeast Florida.Doody has a strong background in business development and is a graduate of the Sandler Sales President Program. She established strong community relationships while working with the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce, where she started a Health Council. Doody has served on the board of directors of many local organizations, including the Urban Land Institute.Doody lives in Ponte Vedra Beach with her husband and three of their five kids. She enjoys the beach and has a deep love and passion for the natural habitats found in the North Florida region.About North Florida Land TrustNorth Florida Land Trust is a non-profit organization who serves as a champion of environmental protection in Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns counties. NFLT was founded in 1999 and has protected thousands of acres of environmentally significant land including land at Big Talbot Island, the River Branch Preserve, Pumpkin Hill State Park, Moccasin Slough, along the St. Marys River and other valued natural areas in Northeast Florida. NFLT is funded largely by private and corporate contributions and works closely with private landowners and other public agencies at all levels of government, not-for-profit partners, and foundations. For more information, visitClient Focused Media1611 San Marco Blvd.Jacksonville, FL 32207Media Contact: Kelly WhiteKelly.white@cfmedia.net904-232-3001
New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Taxi Market in China Will Grow at a CAGR of 36% by 2021
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New York, March 02: Market Research Engine has published a new report titled as New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Taxi Market by Ownership (Company Owned and Individually Owned) and by Taxi Range (Short and Long Range NEV Taxis) - China Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecast 2015 - 2021China NEV taxi market is expected to cross to US$ 560.0 Million by 2020 growing at a CAGR of more than 36% in the given forecast period.Browse Full Report:The New Energy Vehicle (NEV) taxis are the vehicles that run on the unconventional sources of energy with advanced techniques. As these systems cause less pollution and serve as an alternative to the traditional sources of fuels. The Chinese government is taking major steps to increase the use of unconventional sources of fuel for transportation and mobility of the people.The major driving factors of NEV Taxi Market are as follows: Taxies in China travel around 450 km daily. Due to the new energy taxis there is an opportunity to restrict the usage of fuel and also reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. Hence this is become important for the Chinese government to introduce NEV. The support of the government. The advancement in the battery technologies. Tax initiatives.The restraining factors of NEV Taxi Market are as follows: Safety and reliability. The absence of comprehensive charging infrastructure. High cost of vehicles and batteries.Download Free Sample Report:The NEV Taxi Market is segmented on the basis of Ownership as Company owned, Individually Owned. The NEV Taxi Market is segmented on the basis of Taxi Range as Short Range NEV Taxis and Long Range NEV Taxis.This report provides:1) An overview of the NEV Taxi Market and related technologies.2) Analysis of global market trends and projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) through 2021.3) Identifications of new market opportunities and targeted promotional plans for NEV Taxi Market4) Discussion of research and development, and the demand for new products and new applications.5) Comprehensive company profiles of major players in the industry.REPORT SCOPE:The scope of the report includes a detailed study of global and regional markets for various types of NEV Taxi Market with the reasons given for variations in the growth of the industry in certain regions.The report covers detailed competitive outlook including the market share and company profiles of the key participants operating in the global market. Key players profiled in the report include BYD Auto Co. Ltd., Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co Ltd (JAC), Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd. (BAIC), Beiqi Foton Motor Co. Ltd., Changan Automobile Co. Ltd, and Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company... are provided in the report. Company profile includes assign such as company summary, financial summary, business strategy and planning, SWOT analysis and current developments.The Top Companies Report is intended to provide our buyers with a snapshot of the industrys most influential players.The Market Segmentation of NEV Taxi Market is as follows:Market Segmentation on the basis of Ownership: Company Owned Individually OwnedMarket Segmentation on the basis of Taxi Range: Short Range NEV Taxis Long Range NEV TaxisAbout MarketResearchEngine.comMarket Research Engine is a global market research and consulting organization. We provide market intelligence in emerging, niche technologies and markets. Our market analysis powered by rigorous methodology and quality metrics provide information and forecasts across emerging markets, emerging technologies and emerging business models. Our deep focus on industry verticals and country reports help our clients to identify opportunities and develop business strategies.Media ContactCompany Name: Market Research EngineContact Person: John BayEmail: john@marketresearchengine.comPhone: +1-855-984-1862, +91-860-565-7204Country: United StatesWebsite:Address: 3422 SW 15 Street, Suite #8942, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442, United States
Smart Healthcare Products Market Will Grow at a CAGR of 8% by 2023
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New York, March 02: Market Research Engine has published a new report titled as Smart Healthcare Products Market By Product Type (Electronic health record, Smart RFID cabinets, Smart pills, Smart Syringes) and By Industry Verticals (Inventory management, Monitoring management, Health data storage and exchange) Global Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2022The smart healthcare products market is expected to exceed more than US$ 57 billion by 2023 growing at a CAGR of more than 8% in the given forecast period.Browse Full Report:Smart system includes various functions such as controlling, actuation and sensing. These are used to analyze and describe a situation and take any decision based on the present data in adaptive manner or predictive manner so that it performs smart action. Smart system also depends upon network capabilities, energy efficiency and closed loop control. In the healthcare division smart healthcare system tools guide to enhance treatment, diagnostic tools and quality of life for patients. At the same time it is also reducing the costs of community healthcare organization. Cochlear implants, artificial pancreas and artificial organs are smart miniaturized devices which having key development in the smart health care system. There are various smart healthcare products available in the market such as Withings aura, AMI bolt, Wello iPhone case, HAPIfork, wireless smart gluco monitoring system, sound hawk, iBGStar blood glucose meter and more.The smart healthcare products market is segmented on the lines of its product segment, industry vertical and regional. Based on product segmentation the smart healthcare product covers electronic health record, smart RFID cabinets, smart pills and smart syringes. The smart healthcare products market is segmented on the lines of its industry vertical like inventory management, monitoring management and health data storage and exchange. The smart healthcare products market is geographic segmentation covers various regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa. Each geography market is further segmented to provide market revenue for select countries such as the U.S., Canada, U.K. Germany, China, Japan, India, Brazil, and GCC countries.Download Free Sample Report:This report provides:1) An overview of the global market for smart healthcare products and related technologies.2) Analyses of global market trends, with data from 2013, estimates for 2014 and 2015, and projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) through 2022.3) Identifications of new market opportunities and targeted promotional plans for smart healthcare products.4) Discussion of research and development, and the demand for new products and new applications.5) Comprehensive company profiles of major players in the industry.REPORT SCOPE:The scope of the report includes a detailed study of global and regional markets for various types of coatings with the reasons given for variations in the growth of the industry in certain regions.The report covers detailed competitive outlook including the market share and company profiles of the key participants operating in the global market. Key players profiled in the report include Epic Systems Corporation, Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Inc., eClinicalWorks, CapsoVision, Inc. Medtronic, Olympus Corporation, Becton Dickinson and Company, Terumo Corporation, Stanley Healthcare, and TAGSYS. Company profile includes assign such as company summary, financial summary, business strategy and planning, SWOT analysis and current developments.The Top Companies Report is intended to provide our buyers with a snapshot of the industrys most influential players.The Smart Healthcare Products Market has been segmented as below:By Product TypeElectronic health recordSmart RFID cabinetsSmart pillsSmart SyringesBy Industry VerticalInventory managementMonitoring managementHealth data storage and exchangeBy Regional AnalysisNorth AmericaEuropeAsia-PacificRest of the WorldAbout MarketResearchEngine.comMarket Research Engine is a global market research and consulting organization. We provide market intelligence in emerging, niche technologies and markets. Our market analysis powered by rigorous methodology and quality metrics provide information and forecasts across emerging markets, emerging technologies and emerging business models. Our deep focus on industry verticals and country reports help our clients to identify opportunities and develop business strategies.Media ContactCompany Name: Market Research EngineContact Person: John BayEmail: john@marketresearchengine.comPhone: +1-855-984-1862, +91-860-565-7204Country: United StatesWebsite:Address: 3422 SW 15 Street, Suite #8942, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442, United States
Healthcare BI Platform Market Worth USD$ 3.9 Billion Globally By 2023
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New York, March 02: Market Research Engine has published a new report titled as Healthcare BI Platform Market (By Function - Clinical Analytics, Financial Analytics, Operational Analytics, and Others; By Deployment Type - On-premise and Cloud; By Model Type -Self-service BI and Corporate BI) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, and Forecast 2015 - 2023The healthcare BI platform market is expected to exceed more than USD$3.9 Billion by 2023 growing at a CAGR of more than 11% in the given forecast period 2015 to 2023.You Can Browse Full Report Here:Business intelligence consists of different tools and techniques which gain and transform the row information into useful and valuable data for business purpose. It provides present, past and future view of business processes. In health care the meaning of executive performance is varying as rapidly as the requirement for it is increasing. Healthcare BI contains business oriented actions includes decision support and reporting all technical data warehouse content. Healthcare associations such as HMOs, clinics and hospital gather and study patients sensitive data and patients financial data. Healthcare BI industry provide security model so that only authorized peoples are see the patients private data and no lack of clinical, financial and operational data in healthcare. These organizations contains digitizing medical data for over many years and can search, access and use all type of public and government sector data.The major driving factors of healthcare BI platform market are as follows: Increasing requirement for reduction in healthcare costs Centralized healthcare permission increase the Uptake of BI Solutions increasing in data availability Requirement to develop healthcare result and improve patient fulfillmentThe restraints factors of healthcare BI platform market are as follows: Need of resources with cross functional ability Healthcare BI platform system complexityDownload Free Sample Report:The healthcare BI platform market is segmented on the lines of its product, deployment and model. The healthcare BI platform market is segmented on the lines of its product like clinical analytics, financial analytics and operational analytics. Under deployment segmentation it covers on-premise and cloud deployment. The healthcare BI platform market is segmented on the lines of its model like self-service and corporate model. The healthcare BI platform market is geographic segmentation covers various regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa. Each geography market is further segmented to provide market revenue for select countries such as the U.S., Canada, U.K. Germany, China, Japan, India, Brazil, and GCC countries.This report provides:1) An overview of the global market for healthcare BI platform and related technologies.2) Analyses of global market trends, with data from 2013, estimates for 2014 and 2015, and projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) through 2020.3) Identifications of new market opportunities and targeted promotional plans for healthcare BI platform4) Discussion of research and development, and the demand for new products and new applications.5) Comprehensive company profiles of major players in the industry.REPORT SCOPE:The scope of the report includes a detailed study of global and regional markets for various types of coatings with the reasons given for variations in the growth of the industry in certain regions.The report covers detailed competitive outlook including the market share and company profiles of the key participants operating in the global market. Key players profiled in the report include SAP SE, Oracle Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, SAS Institute, Inc., IBM Corporation, OpenText Corporation, and Information Builders .Company profile includes assign such as company summary, financial summary, business strategy and planning, SWOT analysis and current developments.The Top Companies Report is intended to provide our buyers with a snapshot of the industrys most influential players.The Healthcare BI platform Market has been segmented as below:by Product Segment AnalysisGlobal Healthcare BI Platform Market, by Function Clinical Analytics Financial Analytics Operational Analytics Others (Regulatory Reporting, etc.)by Deployment Analysis On-premise Cloudby Model Analysis Self-service Corporateby Regional Analysis North America Europe Asia-Pacific Rest of the WorldAbout MarketResearchEngine.comMarket Research Engine is a global market research and consulting organization. We provide market intelligence in emerging, niche technologies and markets. Our market analysis powered by rigorous methodology and quality metrics provide information and forecasts across emerging markets, emerging technologies and emerging business models. Our deep focus on industry verticals and country reports help our clients to identify opportunities and develop business strategies.Media ContactCompany Name: Market Research EngineContact Person: John BayEmail: john@marketresearchengine.comPhone: +1-855-984-1862, +91-860-565-7204Country: United StatesWebsite:Address: 3422 SW 15 Street, Suite #8942, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442, United States
Crude Sulfate Turpentine Market Volume Analysis, size, share and Key Trends 2017-2027
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Crude sulfate turpentine is a chemical product which is burned for energy recovery. Crude sulfate turpentine is extracted during kraft wood pulping process which is further sold as a commodity. The procedure separates cellulose fibers which are used to manufacture paper. Crude sulfate turpentine is itself a fuel that contains organic compounds mainly alpha-pinene and beta-pinene and other terpenes. The technology for crude sulfate turpentine includes extraction of terpen hydrocarbons vapors from evaporators and digester and separate it from turpentine water. Crude sulfate turpentine act as a feedstock for the manufacturer who produces pinenes, flavorings, polymer additives, pine oil, fragrances and turpentine oil. Turpentine oil is extracted from oleoresin which is collected from a tree. Turpentine is used as a commercial fuel source an alternative to fossil fuels in applications such as lamps, furnaces, industrial boilers and rocket fuels. Crude sulfate turpentine has a low healing value of around 17,000 to 19,000 Btu/lb compared to other fuels such as diesel, gasoline, and propane.Crude Sulfate Turpentine Market:Drivers and RestraintsCrude sulfate turpentine market is witnessing maximum growth owing to increase in demand for bio-friendly products and high consumption of personal care and household products. Moreover, increase in the production of chemical products from turpentine which is used as a solvent, fragrance agent and flavor are some other factors expected to fuel the growth of global Crude Sulfate Turpentine market. However, decreasing consumption of the products produce from crude sulfate turpentine along with decreasing paper mill production, availability of less expensive petroleum based products and less recovery of black liquor from Kraft wood pulping process are some of the factors that hamper the growth of crude sulfate turpentine market.Request Report Sample@Crude Sulfate Turpentine Market:SegmentationThe Crude Sulfate Turpentine market has been classified on the basis of product type, and application.Based on product type, the crude sulfate turpentine market is segmented into the following:CampheneLimoneneAlpha-pineneBeta-pineneDelta 3 CareneOthersBased on application, the crude sulfate turpentine market is segmented into the following:Paints & Printing InksAromatic ChemicalsCamphorAdhesivesOthersRequest For TOC@Crude Sulfate Turpentine Market:OverviewCrude sulfate turpentine accounts for 96% to the overall turpentine production in the US. Turpentine produced in the US is mainly of alpha-pinene accounted for 85% followed by camphene and limonene. It is the commonly used paint and varnish thinner. Based on product type, Delta 3 Carene is expected to be the fastest growing segment in near future owing to increase in the use of turpentine as a solvent for resins. Based on applications, aromatic chemicals accounted for largest market share owing to the high use of crude sulfate turpentine in FMCG products such as air fresheners, soaps, and deodorants.Crude Sulfate Turpentine Market: Region-wise OutlookDepending on the geographic region, Crude Sulfate Turpentine market is segmented into seven key regions: North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific, Japan, and Middle East & Africa. North America dominates the crude sulfate turpentine market followed by Europe, Japan owing to the largest source of terpenes, low cost of crude sulfate turpentine, presence of large manufacturers of aromatic chemicals and paints that consume crude sulfate turpentine material, and high export of Crude Sulfate Turpentine to other countries worldwide. Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa hold huge potential and shows substantial growth owing to increase in the consumption of personal care products among the population to maintain hygiene.Crude Sulfate Turpentine Market:Key PlayersKey players of Crude Sulfate Turpentine market are Dujodwala Paper Chemicals Ltd., Arizona Chemical Company LLC, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc., Pine Chemical Group, Lawter Inc., Privi Organics Limited, HARTING Technology Group, Derives Resiniques et Terpeniqes, Privi Organics Limited, and Renessenz LLC.Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.compress@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Wine Bags Market Volume Analysis, size, share and Key Trends 2017-2027
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Wine bags are packaging items solely utilized for safe covering and carrying of expensive wines and relevant liquors. Glass is the most widely used material as the most sought-after container for wines, therefore, necessitating the usage of light and sturdy wine bags so as to facilitate the customers to carry high-priced bottles from the wine shops in a safe manner. In the present scenario, wine bags have become more of a luxury item than a protection casing for carrying wines. Wine bottles have been traditionally presented as a gift item within the middle and upper class factions, presenting a bottle of wine with a packing of a wine bag adds a touch of luxury as well as improving its aesthetic value. Wine bags are no different from other general commodity carrying packages, however, wine bags are especially designed keeping in mind the size and shape of the bottle. Wine bags are usually sold in the market along with the wine bottle or can be bought as a stand-alone product for a more personalized usage by the customers. Customization of wine bags is also gaining traction in the market leading the vendors to offer custom made wine bags to the customers.Wine Bags Market DynamicsThe global market for the demand of wine bags can be directly attributed to the sale of wines. The improvement in wine consumption has witnessed a healthy growth within the middle to upper class people owing to high disposable income and luxurious lifestyle prompting an increase in sales of wine bags, thereby improving its market on a global scale.Government and environmental policies on minimizing wastage and reduction in the consumption of non-biodegradable raw materials has led to an increased production of eco-friendly reusable bags in the manufacturing unit driving the growth of wine bags in the competitive market.Request Report Sample@Increased consumption of wine beverages among the growing youth population has contributed to the growth of wine bags market on a global level.Alternative packaging systems available for the containment of wine such as bag-in-box, plastic pouches and cardboard based bladder packs has greatly influenced a decrease in production of traditional glass based wine containers. Reduced availability of glass based wine bottles can directly affect the growth of wine bags market as the sales of these bags solely rely on wine bottles. Propagation of negative health benefits of alcohol based beverages can also hamper the growth of wine bags market.Wine Bags Market: SegmentationOn the basis of types of materials used,Wine Bags Market can be segmented as:PaperTextileLeatherPlasticOthers (Neoprene etc.)On the basis of renewability, Wine Bags Market can be segmented as:Reusable Wine BagsDisposable Wine BagsOn the basis of fastening system, Wine Bags Market can be segmented as:Open BagZipper systemRope based system (Knot)VelcroClasp systemOn the basis of number of containments, Wine Bags Market can be segmented as:Single bottle Wine BagsMulti bottle Wine BagsRequest For TOC@Wine Bags Market: Regional OutlookThe Global Wine Bags market can be segmented into seven geographical locations such as North America, Latin America, Western and Eastern Europe, APEJ, Japan and MEA. The North American and the European region is anticipated to grow strongly in the wine bags market due to increase in disposable income, higher standard of living and luxurious lifestyle. In MEA region, the sale of alcohol is prohibited owing to religious factors which can affect the sale of wine bags.Wine Bags Market: Key PlayersSome of the major players identified in the global wine bags market are:Yiwu Youbai Packing Co., LtdWine Box Company LimitedFactory Direct PromosBuilt NYAmpac Holdings, LLCAcorn Paper Products CompanyRichie BagsIniti Bag Manufacturer Co.,LtdDM Packaging CompanyNANGFA Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.compress@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
MASON CITY | A judge ruled Friday that a Lake Mills man accused of murdering two people in Mason City in November is not mentally competent at this time to stand trial.
Peter Veal, 30, is being sent to the Iowa prison system's licensed Forensic Psychiatric Hospital to be treated until he is able to participate in court proceedings.
Veal was charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the Nov. 17 deaths of Mason City residents Mindy Kavars and Caleb Christensen at a residence in the 1600 block of North Hampshire Avenue.
He also is facing one count of the attempted murder of a witness at the scene.
District Court Judge Rustin Davenport based his ruling on a report from a doctor. The doctor determined Veal is suffering from a mental disorder that prevents him from understanding court proceedings and participating in his own defense.
Cerro County Attorney Carlyle Dalen said the state has 18 months to allow Veal to get to the point where he can stand trial.
We are optimistic that will take place, he said.
Dalen said the state reserves its right to ask for another medical opinion at a later date.
Veal pleaded not guilty in December and was scheduled to go to trial Jan. 24.
However, court proceedings were postponed in early January after Davenport ruled probable cause existed for a psychiatric evaluation of Veal to determine if he was competent to stand trial.
During the probable cause hearing, Veals mother, Leann Veal, testified her son showed many signs of paranoia and had hallucinations.
Andrew Steenblock, Cerro Gordo County Jail administrator, testified no one on staff reported any unusual behavior from Veal.
Veal was taken from the county jail to the Oakdale Medical and Classification Center in late February for his mental health evaluation.
Zika Virus Testing Market Growth, Forecast and Value Chain 2017-2027
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One of the biggest public growing threat is the rapid emergence of mosquito borne virus called as Zika virus. Zika virus was first identified in rhesus monkey in the year 1947 in Uganda. Later in 1952 the virus was identified in humans. The virus is a single-stranded RNA virus of the Flaviviridae family, and is transmitted by two species of Aedes genus, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These are the same mosquito species that also spread dengue and chikungunya virus. The virus can also be vertically transmitted during fetal/perinatal period or by unprotected sexual contact. In case of perinatal transmission the virus can pass from mother to fetus through trans-placental transmission which can lead to the most common birth defect of brain called as microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defects. Eye defect, hearing problems and impaired growth are some of the issues commonly associated with the infection of Zika virus in fetus. Apart from this several evidences of Guillain-Barre syndrome, have also been reported in patients carrying the virus. Guillain-Barre syndrome is an uncommon sickness of the nervous system which leads to ascending paralysis. However, the risk is found to be higher in pregnant womens during their first trimester of pregnancy period. Symptoms associated with the infection of Zika virus includes, fever, rashes, joint pain, conjunctivitis, muscle pain and headache. These symptoms last for several days to weeks. Africa, America, Asia and Pacific regions are likely to be dominated regions witnessing outbreaks of Zika virus.The first largest outbreak of Zika virus was reported in the year 2007 across the Pacific island of Yap, in the Federated States of Micronesia. In 2016, World Health Organization (WHO) estimated the local transmission of Zika infection in more than 20 countries and territories across the Americas. Currently a number of Zika virus testing assays are available in the market some of which have received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) while some of them are used for Research Use Only (RUO) and are used as Laboratory Developed Test (LDT). Currently, a number of diagnostic tests are available in the market for the diagnosis of Zika virus in humans. This includes, Zika ELITe MGB detection test, Sentosa SA ZIKV RT-PCR, LightMix Zika rRT-PCR test and many more. All these tests allow qualitative detection of RNA from Zika virus from body samples such as urine, human serum and plasma. The market for zika virus testing is expected to rise over the forecast period owing to continuous increase in population exhibiting symptoms of Zika virus over the forecast period.Request Report Sample@Zika Virus Testing Market: Drivers & RestraintsExpanded disease surveillance efforts undertaken by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is expected to spur the market for Zika virus testing in the U.S. In august 2016, FDA announced screening of all donated blood and blood products for Zika virus across the world. This would help prevent increased chances of getting infected through transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs). Substantial spending by U.S. government and FDA to add Zika screening program across all the hospitals and blood banks in U.S. is expected to spur the market for Zika virus testing over the forecast period. Furthermore, increasing efforts by various manufacturers to develop Zika virus screening tests is expected to accelerate the market growth in the coming years. Major demand for Zika virus testing is expected to come from Florida attributed to increasing number of patients exhibiting symptoms of Zika virus. Lack of awareness in the developing countries and inaccurate results from available diagnostic tests may affect the revenues for Zika virus testing market globally over the forecast period.Zika Virus Testing Market: SegmentationZika virus testing market is segmented by test type, route of administration, end user and geography:By Test TypeNucleic Acid Amplification Test/ Molecular TestsZika Virus Antibody Test/ Serological TestBy End UserHospitalsDiagnostic CentersPathology ClinicsZika Virus Testing Market: OverviewAccording to WHO, since 2007, 67 countries and territories reported the evidence of Zika virus transmission. At present, the diagnosis of Zika virus in humans is dependent upon the molecular detection of viral RNA. However, presence of RNA only during the viraemia i.e. presence the virus in blood, and close clinical association of Zika symptoms with dengue and other infections, has resulted in lare number of undiagnosed cases.Request For TOC@Accessibility of better diagnostic testing services (i.e. rapid near-patient tests) across several haeltcare facilities is expected to fuel the market for Zika virus testing over the forecast period.Zika Virus Testing Market: Region-wise OutlookOn the basis of region presence, Zika virus testing market is segmented into seven key regions: North America, Latin America, and Eastern Europe, Western Europe, and Asia pacific excluding japan, Japan, Middle East and Africa. Continuous spread of Zika virus across several countries in North America is expected to increase the demand for Zika virus testing services over the forecast period. WHO estimated that as of July 2016, in the U.S. CDC reported 12 birth defects related cases and six pregnancy losses. Furthermore, increasing efforts by HHS, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) to raise the fund for development of diagnostic assays for Zika virus detection is expected to drive the market growth of Zika virus testing over the forecast period. Also the Zika virus outbreak in several Latin American countries is rapidly growing. For example in Brazil alone the virus is known to affect 21 states out of 26 states. Rapid local transmission of Zika virus across the globe is expected to result in more number of diagnostic assays performed thus driving the revenues.Zika Virus Testing Market: Key PlayersSome of the key market players in the Zika virus testing market are, ELITechGroup Inc. Molecular Diagnostics, Abbott Molecular Inc., ARUP Laboratories, Vela Diagnostics USA Inc., Roche Molecular Systems Inc., InBios International, Inc., Luminex Corporation, Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc., Hologic, Inc. and Focus Diagnostics, Inc.Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.compress@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Sodium Ethasulfate Market - Global Industry Analysis By 2024
Sodium Ethasulfate Market
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Sodium ethasulfate, known as sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate, is a clear, colorless, viscous, and nonflammable liquid that belongs to the sodium sulfate chemical group. On heating, sodium ethasulfate decomposes to release toxic fumes of sodium dioxide and sulfur dioxide. The product is manufactured through the aldol condensation of butyraldehyde to alcohol and then converted into sodium salt of sulfate. The salt is then fumed with sodium hydroxide and sulfuric acid to form sodium ethasulfate.Sodium ethasulfate is usually stable; however, it is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. Due to its unique solubility and penetrating action, it is widely used in various end-user industries such as textile, chemical production, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, metal working, and food processing. The product is safe to handle; however, it can de-fat the skin and cause irritation to the eyes. Commercially, it is sold as aqueous solution with concentration range of 40% to 50%.Browse Market Research Report @Textile and chemical have been the major industries driving the demand for sodium ethasulfate since the last few years. Sodium ethasulfate is used as wetting agent in the textile industry. The product is used along with calcium hypochlorite as a bleaching agent. The product is used as mercerizing agent for cotton processing in the chemical industry. Furthermore, it is employed as intermediate in anoinic surfactants that are used for dishwashing detergents. It is also used as surfactant in lye washing and peeling process. Sodium ethasulfate is also employed as surfactant in metal working applications. It is used in acid pickling bath, wherein it helps in reducing the pickling time and amount of acid required for this process.Sodium ethasulfate is also employed in the formulation of offset printing fountain solutions. It is also employed as an intermediate in agrochemicals as well as pharmaceuticals. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used to enhance the bactericidal properties of generic antiseptics that are more acidic. It is also employed as surfactant in penicillin production for breaking undesired reaction conditions. Sodium ethasulfate is also used as a wetting agent in the electroplating industry due to its stability in higher pH solutions. It also aids in eliminating the pitting caused by impurities on the metal surfaces.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report @Industries such as pharmaceutical and agrochemicals are likely to offer market opportunities for sodium ethasulfate in the next few years. Despite the high number of applications, the sodium ethasulfate market is expected to exhibit stagnant growth in the next few years. Stringent environmental and health regulations are likely to hamper the market growth. Due to its direct contact with food and skin, the product is governed by the U.S. FDA and U.S EPA.Asia Pacific, North America, and Europe have been the major consumers of sodium ethasulfate in the recent past. With high demand from chemicals and textile industries, Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the market for sodium ethasulfate during the forecast period. China, India, and ASEAN are likely to boost the demand for sodium ethasulfate in the near future due to the exponential growth in agrochemicals, chemicals, and textile industries. The U.S. and Western Europe are projected to exhibit stable growth with environmental regulations playing a key role in market growth. Latin America is likely to provide growth opportunities due to the high demand from agrochemicals and food lye processing industries.Manufacturers of sodium ethasulfate include Alpha Chemicals Pvt. Ltd, Stephan Company, Niacet Corporation, and Solvay. These companies offer sodium ethasulfate with 40% to 50% concentrations.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insights for decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.TMRs data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, TMR employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.Contact Us:-Transparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:Visit Blog:
Concrete Fiber Market estimated high sales by 2016-2024
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Zion Market Research, the market research group announced the analysis report titled 'Concrete Fiber Market: Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis and Forecast, 2015 2021'Global Concrete Fiber Market: OverviewConcrete fibers, also known as fiber-reinforced concrete, has fibers integrated into the concrete for increasing its structural integrity, reducing its permeability, and water leakage reduction. The fibers may be natural, glass, synthetic, and steel fibers. These fibers are uniformly distributed in the concrete. The fibers reduce shrinkage due to the plasticity reduction or dryness. The concrete fibers are used for construction, industrial, and mining purposes due to its chemical, mechanical, and thermal resistance properties, stability, strength, and durability. Concrete fibers are used to develop conventional concrete barrier rails, roads, sound attenuation barriers, and paving.Request Free Sample Report @Global Concrete Fiber Market: Growth FactorsThe increasing demand for the concrete fiber products due its properties such as durability, resistance, and stability boosts the growth of the global concrete fiber market. The increasing urbanization and demand for non-corrosive materials are driving the global market growth. These fibers have a broad range of application in the industrial, road and building construction, mining application, and others. The high cost of production of concrete fibers restrains the global market growth.Global Concrete Fiber Market: SegmentationThe global concrete fiber market is bifurcated based on the type, end use industry, and region. The type segment is further divided into natural fiber, steel concrete fiber, synthetic concrete fiber, glass concrete fiber, and basalt fiber. The end use industry segment is categorized into mining and tunnel, transport infrastructure, building and construction, industrial flooring, agriculture, and waterways. The mining and tunnel subsegment is bifurcated into slope stabilization, shafts and tunnel lining, and underground mining. The transport infrastructure subsegment is divided into railways, bridges, roadways, highways, and ports and airports. The building and construction subsegment is further categorized into residential and non-residential building and construction. The regional segmentation includes Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, South America, and North America. The transport infrastructure segment dominates the global concrete fiber market. The rising demand for basalt fiber due to its high melting point at 1400C is expected to boost the concrete fiber market.Request Report TOC (Table of Contents) @Global Concrete Fiber Market: Regional AnalysisNorth America has the largest share in the global concrete fiber market. The increasing demand for steel fiber and synthetic fiber concretes boosts the US concrete fiber market. The developing countries such as Brazil, India, China, Japan, and Nigeria are witnessing growth in the global concrete fiber market due to the investments by the major players in these regions. The global market in Asia Pacific region is expected to grow rapidly due to the demand in the industrial, mining, and constructional fields. Europe due to the advanced technology will occupy major shares in the global market.Global Concrete Fiber Market: Competitive PlayersThe major players in the global concrete fiber market include Propex Operating Company LLC, Nycon Corporation, Owens Corning, Cemex, ABC Polymer Industries, Bekaert SA, and Sika AG. The other players in the global market include BASF SE, Propex Global, Fibercon International Inc., The Euclid Chemical Company, Nycon Corporation, and W. R. Grace & Co.Browse detail report @Global Concrete Fiber Market: Regional Segment AnalysisNorth AmericaU.S.EuropeUKFranceGermanyAsia PacificChinaJapanIndiaLatin AmericaBrazilMiddle East and AfricaWhat Report ProvidesFull in-depth analysis of the parent marketImportant changes in market dynamicsSegmentation details of the marketFormer, on-going, and projected market analysis in terms of volume and valueAssessment of niche industry developmentsMarket share analysisKey strategies of major playersEmerging segments and regional marketsTestimonials to companies in order to fortify their foothold in the market.Ask for a customized report @About Us:Zion Market Research is an obligated company. We create futuristic, cutting edge, informative reports ranging from industry reports, company reports to country reports. We provide our clients not only with market statistics unveiled by avowed private publishers and public organizations but also with vogue and newest industry reports along with pre-eminent and niche company profiles. Our database of market research reports comprises a wide variety of reports from cardinal industries. Our database is been updated constantly in order to fulfill our clients with prompt and direct online access to our database. Keeping in mind the clients needs, we have included expert insights on global industries, products, and market trends in this database. Last but not the least, we make it our duty to ensure the success of clients connected to usafter allif you do well, a little of the light shines on us.Contact Us:Zion Market Research4283, Express Lane,Suite 634-143,Sarasota, Florida 34249, United StatesTel: +49-322 210 92714USA/Canada Toll-Free No.1-855-465-4651Email: sales@zionmarketresearch.comWebsite:
Travel Pouches Market Dynamics, Forecast, Analysis and Supply Demand 2017-2027
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Pouches are one of the most widely traded commodities in the world. Carrying camera, mobile and many other daily activities we cant think without having a travel pouch. These pouches have become a new trend to carry material easily and with an organized manner. The trend of carrying mobile or cameras for vacations or to carry medical accessories, daily using products are propelling the market of travel pouch. Changing consumer lifestyle has improved the requirement on processed, pre-cooked and packed foods, which also organized the entire flexible packaging supply chain to sync product offering as per end customer requirement. Customization of travel pouches in terms of space, capacity, and design can boost the market globally in the forecast period.Travel Pouches Market- Market Segmentation:Travel pouches market are segmented into by material type, product type, by end use and by region. On the basis of material type the travel pouches market is segmented into plastic, leather, paper and others. Others includes jute, rubber, fiber travel pouches. On the basis of product type the travel pouches market can be segmented into travel hand pouches, organizer pouches, and others. Based on the end use type the global travel pouches market can be segmented into commercial use and non-commercial, where in commercial use we can further segment into electronic gadgets, food, clothing products, pharmaceuticals products, cosmetics and personal care, and industrial goods. On the basis of region, travel pouches market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa.Request Report Sample@Travel Pouches Market- Market Dynamics:Growth in demand for travel pouches market is expected to grow significantly for many reasons. Due to the increase of trade activities and material transportation travel pouches market is growing significantly. The increasing demand of daily carry out activities are boosting the market of travel pouches. Attributable to the boom in online commerce, travel pouches sales through the internet have been growing at a significant pace. Technological improvements, such as the facility of coolant or heater in the bag as per the material requirements is also anticipated to boost market growth over the forecast period. Moreover, light weighted travel pouches are strengthening the market rapidly. Durability of these pouches compare to metal containers are less, which can be a restraint for the travel pouches. The increasing demand for customized bags from different industries like food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, chemical can also be a good opportunity for the travel pouches market.Travel Pouches Market- Regional Outlook:Travel pouches market is expected to register a high CAGR for the forecast period. Depending on geographic regions, travel pouches market is segmented into five key regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific is expected to witness the maximum growth in the travel pouches market primarily driven by the developing countries like India and China. The rising disposable income, growth in the retail industry, urbanization are some of the factors that contribute to the growth in the developing countries of Asia Pacific. Europe is also expected to experience the healthy growth in the travel pouches market as it accounts for over 55% of market share in the overall pouch market. North America is expected to achieve an above average growth in the travel pouches market over the forecast period.Visit For TOC@Travel Pouches Market- Major Players:Some of the key players of the global travel pouches market are PETZL SECURITE, UTILITY DIADORA, Beal Pro, IRUDEK 2000, ROX, BLAKLADER WORKWEAR, NEOFEU, Cangnan Environment Bag Co., Ltd., Cangnan Great Shopping Bags Co., Ltd., GeoMax, Precintia International, Ansell Protective Solutions, HELLY HANSEN Work Wear, Shenzhen Weiyi Fashion Gift Co., Ltd., Swiss Rescue, DMM Professional, Grundens of Sueden, Versar PPS, MALETAS TECNICAS BOXFORT, LAFONT, SOMAIN SECURITE, Louis Blockx and NNZ.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Utility Pouches Market Size and Key Trends in Terms of Volume and Value 2017-2027
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Packaging has become a dynamic constituent of modern life due to the ease of transportation, storage and inclination of the consumer towards a wide usage of bags. Moreover, food products, health supplements and electronic components are some of the things that have observed improvements regarding demand over the last few years and are more easily available due to an effective packaging solution. Utility pouches are one of the effective packaging solutions that provides all the features related to high performance during travelling & storage of small accessories and tools with protection for sensitive products and components. Most of the utility pouches are available in different sizes and can be individually custom-made to the size and transportation to meet the product or customer precise needs. Customization of utility pouches in terms of space, capacity, and design can boost the market globally in the forecast period.Utility Pouches Market- Market Segmentation:Utility pouches market are segmented into by material type, holding type, by end use and by region. On the basis of material type the utility pouches market is segmented into plastic, cotton, leather, and others. On the basis of holding type the utility pouches market can be segmented into utility hand pouches, shoulder bags or pouches, clutch, and others. Based on the end use type the global utility pouches market can be segmented into commercial use and non-commercial, where in commercial use we can further segment into electronic gadgets, food, clothing products, pharmaceuticals products, cosmetics and personal care, and industrial goods. On the basis of region, utility pouches market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa.Request Report Sample@Utility Pouches Market- Market Dynamics:Due to the increase of trade activities and material transportation utility pouches market is growing significantly. The increasing demand of daily carry out activities are bolstering the market of utility pouches. Due to the boom in online commerce, utility pouches sales through the internet have been growing at a significant pace. Technological improvements, such as the facility of coolant or heater in the bag as per the material requirements is also anticipated to boost market growth over the forecast period. Moreover, light weighted utility pouches are strengthening the market rapidly. Durability of thee bags compare to metal containers are less, which can be a restraint for the utility pouches. The increasing demand for customized bags from different industries like food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, chemical can also be a good opportunity for the utility pouches market.Utility Pouches Market- Regional Outlook:Geographically, the utility pouches market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Middle East & Africa (MEA). The growth of global utility pouches market is expected to witness a healthy CAGR over the forecast period of 2016-2024. Moreover, Asia-Pacific is expected to witness a high growth of utility pouches market due to the rising consumption of food products. The demand of the utility pouches market is expected to witness an above average growth in North America due to the higher adoption of utility pouches for commercial and industrial use.Visit For TOC@Utility Pouches Market- Major Players:Some of the key players of the global utility pouches market are PETZL SECURITE, UTILITY DIADORA, Beal Pro, IRUDEK 2000, ROX, BLAKLADER WORKWEAR, NEOFEU, GeoMax, Precintia International, Ansell Protective Solutions, HELLY HANSEN Work Wear, Swiss Rescue, DMM Professional, Grundens of Sueden, Versar PPS, MALETAS TECNICAS BOXFORT, LAFONT, SOMAIN SECURITE, Louis Blockx and NNZ.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Dihydromyrcenol Market - Global Industry Analysis 2024
Dihydromyrcenol Market
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Dihydromyrcenol is a colorless or pale-yellow colored liquid with strong smell resembling to fresh lime and sweet odor. It is insoluble in water and soluble in paraffin oil and alcohol. It belongs to the family of acyclic terpenic alcohols. Dihydromyrcenol is manufactured from dihydromyrcenyl chloride by hydrolysis of dihydromyrcenyl chloride in an aqueous medium containing a base and a phase transfer catalyst in an amount of 0.001-10 mole %, based on the amount of dihydromyrcenyl chloride.Dihydromyrcenol Market: Drivers and RestraintsDihydromyrcenol is a major constituent of fragrance chemicals used in personal care products and cosmetics industries. The global fragrance chemicals industry is anticipated to expand at an annual growth rate of 7% to 8% by 2024. The two leading factors that contribute to this growth are increasing consumer expenditure on personal care products worldwide and new product launches by leading manufacturers of fragrance chemicals. On the other hand, one of the key restraints for the fragrance chemicals industry is the continuous need to advance, and update the existing fragrances and produce new fragrances that appeal to consumers worldwide.Browse Market Research Report @Development of organic and natural fragrance products is projected to create lucrative opportunities for the dihydromyrcenol market in the near future. Moreover, online shops have considerably fueled the fragrance chemicals industry. This, in turn, is anticipated to drive the dihydromyrcenol market in the next few years. Companies are adopting various marketing techniques to regulate the increasing prices of dihydromyrcenol. The rising demand for fragrances and thereby, the increasing demand for dihydromyrcenol along with the mounting popularity of tailored perfumes are factors expected to fuel the dihydromyrcenol market in the near future.Dihydromyrcenol Market: SegmentationBased on application, the dihydromyrcenol market can be segmented into: Soaps & detergents Shampoos & body washes Deodorants & perfumes Air fresheners Fabric softeners Air care products Cosmetics & Toiletries FragrancesThe soaps & detergents segment is projected to account for a major share of the global dihydromyrcenol market by the end of the forecast period, followed by the cosmetics & toiletries segment. The market for dihydromyrcenol is primarily driven by innovative consumer products, especially in personal care applications such as hair and skin care products. Dihydromyrcenol is employed as an intermediate in the production of derivatives such as myrcetol and tetrahydromyrcenol, or in compounding fragrances. It is considered as one of the key constituents of perfumery products.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report @Fragrances have transitioned as a mainstream element of the cosmetics industry. From a non-essential commodity, they have evolved as obligatory, day-to-day, personal grooming products. The dihydromyrcenol market flourishes in a consumer-driven industry, dictated by beauty and fashion trends. The global fragrance chemicals industry plays a significant role in the luxury personal products.Dihydromyrcenol Market: Region-wise OutlookBased on geography, the global dihydromyrcenol market can be segmented into North America, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Europe, and Middle East & Africa. The dihydromyrcenol market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to register the maximum growth rate during the forecast period. Asia Pacific accounted for approximately 25% share of the global fragrances market in 2015 and is expected to provide lucrative growth opportunities in the near future. However, North America and Europe are estimated to experience decline in demand for synthetic perfumes in the next few years, due to the rising demand for organic fragrances.Dihydromyrcenol Market: Key PlayersSome of the key players operating in the global dihydromyrcenol market are: Manish Minerals & Chemicals Phoenix Aromas & Essential Oils, LLC Privi Organics Ltd. Anthea AromaticsAbout UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insights for decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.TMRs data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, TMR employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.Contact Us:-Transparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:Visit Blog:
Synchronous Motor Market 10-Year Market Forecast and Trends Analysis Research Report
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The growing demand for electricity, coupled with an exponential surge in the price of electricity collectively drive the synchronous motor market. Synchronous motors offer a multitude of advantages, such as power factor correction to reduce energy consumption and high efficiency, which facilitates its adoption in the manufacturing sector. Synchronous motors are widely used in industries and they can be used as motors or generators, depending on industry preference. Synchronous motors are feasible with speeds ranging from 150 rpm to 1800 rpm and power ratings between 150 KW to 15 MW. A synchronous motor runs at a synchronous speed, i.e. at a constant speed with a given frequency, while offering greater stability. Due to low power loss, high performance, minimal maintenance requirement and flexibility in adapting to diverse machinery layouts, synchronous motors are steadily gaining popularity among customers.Synchronous motors are not self-starting motors. External DC supply is required to excite the motor close to the synchronous speed. Although synchronous motors are more complex, large synchronous motors are more efficient than induction motors and are capable of maintaining a constant operation speed even in overload conditions as well as voltage variations. A synchronous motor can operate under leading or lagging power factors. They are capable of power factor correction and work at high efficiencies thus reducing the cost of energy consumption by supplying reactive power to the grid. These key advantages are forecasted to drive the synchronous motor market in the near future. The key feature in synchronous motors is that they can be used at high power with low speed; which makes them attractive for applications in the functioning of rolling mills, pumps and compressors in a multitude of industries such as manufacturing and oil and gas. Asia Pacific is forecasted to dominate the global synchronous motor market due to factors such as growth in manufacturing industries and increasing awareness about energy efficiency.Request Report Sample@Global Synchronous Motor Market: SegmentationThe synchronous motor market is segmented as follows:By mount type:HorizontalVerticalBy voltage typeLow Voltage (LV)Medium Voltage (MV)By end users:Oil & GasChemicals & PetrochemicalMetalsMiningPulp & PaperGlobal Synchronous Motor Market: Key Trends and DriversThe demand for low energy consumption motors is the primary factor that drives the demand for synchronous motor market. High efficiency, reliability and power factor correction - synchronous motors provide a good medley of solutions applicable across an array of industries. Two growing markets for synchronous motors are the oil & gas and chemical industries; this is vastly owed to the efficiency these motors offer. In the commercial sector, steep pricing for electricity has led to an urgent demand for energy saving options; which consequently creates a growth opportunity for the synchronous motor market. With recovery in oil prices, growth demand is projected to increase for oil and gas, this is forecasted to indirectly boost the synchronous motor market.Visit For TOC@Global Synchronous Motor Market: Key PlayersExamples of some of the market participants in the synchronous motor market are:Siemens AG, General Electric, ABB Limited, WEG S.A., Toshiba Corporation, Nidec Corporation, Rockwell Corporation, Johnson Electric Holding Ltd., Emerson Electric, among others. Leading players are trying to penetrate developing economies and adopting various methods to increase their market share.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Annual 6.4% Growth expected for Global Personal Protective Equipment Market by 2022
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Zion Market Research, the market research group announced the analysis report titled 'Personal Protective Equipment Market (Hand Protection, Fall Protection, Protective Clothing, Professional Footwear, Head Protection, Respiratory Protection, and Others) for Construction & Manufacturing, Oil & Gas, Health Care, Petrochemicals, Food Industry, and Other Applications: Global Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Segment, Trends and Forecast, 2016 2022'The study concludes that the global Personal Protective Equipment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% between 2016 and 2021. The market revenue of $39.37 billion in 2015, is expected to reach $57.12 billion by 2021. The main drivers for the growth of the market increase in numbers of women working outside the home.Request Free Sample Report @Personal protective equipment or PPE is a type of equipment which can be used to minimize the risk that causes serious workplace injuries and illnesses. These injuries and illnesses may result from contact with radiological, chemical, mechanical, physical, electrical, or other place hazards. Personal protective equipment includes goggles, hard hats, helmets, gloves protective clothing, face masks, ear plugs, respirators, safety harnesses, high visibility clothing etc.An increasing number of organizations worldwide are now becoming proactive regarding employee health & safety. Technological innovation and shifting consumer preference towards protective equipment is driving market of personal protective equipment. Increasing foreign investments, high industry growth, and stringent safety regulations can augment the demand for personal protective equipment worldwide. However, pricing pressures and increasing commoditization of products can impact the growth of the market.The personal protective equipment market is segmented on the basis of product, application, and region. Product segment includes head protection, eye and face protection, hearing protection, protective clothing, respiratory protection, protective footwear, fall protection, hand protection and others. Hand gloves are currently dominating the global market and are acquired share of around 22% of total revenue in 2016. According to the survey, globally 41.5% industrial fatalities and accidents are related to hand injuries. Thus, rising number of arm injuries, hand cuts, and abrasions in the workplace attributed to the high growth of hand protection equipment market.Inquire more about this report @Application segments of personal protective equipment market include construction, manufacturing, oil & gas, chemicals, food, pharmaceuticals, transportation and others. Construction & manufacturing industry dominated the PPE market in 2016. Surging demand to work in a risky environment such as demolition, repair, structural or routine maintenance, land clearing, painting, trenching, digging, boring, drilling, blasting, and concreting create demand for personal protective equipment. This segment is also anticipated witness significant growth on account of growing manufacturing and construction industry.Construction & manufacturing followed by petrochemical and healthcare segment. Oil & gas industry consists of serious life-threatening hazards. In the pharmaceutical industry, PPE is the vital line of defense when it comes to protecting personnel from toxic substances. Recent stringent government regulations towards the safety of employees are forcing enterprises to comply with the industry standards, thereby increasing protective equipment demand.Companies having a notable stake in the global PPE industry include Alpha Pro Tech Ltd., Du Pont, 3M Company, Ansell, Adians, Delta Plus, Rock Fall Limited, and Uvex Safety Group.Browse detail report with in-depth TOC @This report segments global personal protective equipment market as follows:Global Personal Protective Equipment Market: Product Segment AnalysisHead Protection, Eye and Face ProtectionHead Protection,Eye and Face ProtectionHearing ProtectionProtective ClothingRespiratory ProtectionProtective FootwearFall ProtectionHand ProtectionOthersGlobal Personal Protective Equipment Market: Application Segment AnalysisConstructionManufacturingOil & GasChemicalsFoodPharmaceuticalsTransportationOthersGlobal Personal Protective Equipment Market: Regional Segment AnalysisNorth AmericaU.S.EuropeUKFranceGermanyAsia PacificChinaJapanIndiaLatin AmericaBrazilMiddle East and AfricaRequest a customized copy of report @About Us:Zion Market Research is an obligated company. We create futuristic, cutting edge, informative reports ranging from industry reports, company reports to country reports. We provide our clients not only with market statistics unveiled by avowed private publishers and public organizations but also with vogue and newest industry reports along with pre-eminent and niche company profiles. Our database of market research reports comprises a wide variety of reports from cardinal industries. Our database is been updated constantly in order to fulfill our clients with prompt and direct online access to our database. Keeping in mind the clients needs, we have included expert insights on global industries, products, and market trends in this database. 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Endoscopy Devices Market to witness Impressive Growth by 2016 2024
Endoscopy Devices Market
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Endoscopy Devices Market: OverviewEndoscopy is an invasive medical procedure for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of complications in the internal organs. The endoscopy is performed using a device called endoscope. This device is placed into the patient body either through the natural cavities or through incisions. Endoscopy device consist of camera or the light source at the tip that helps the physicians or medical professionals to analysis the internal organs of interest. Most of the endoscopic procedures make patient discomfort but it takes less recovery time.Endoscopy Devices Market: Growth FactorsThe endoscopy devices market has the several driving factors but one of the most important factors that is expected to propel the growth of the market is recovery time is shorter and fastest recovery. Another important factor is U.S. FDA policies support easier approval process for endoscopy devices. However, high costs of endoscopy devices is expected to be one the major constraint in growth of this industry, especially in emerging markets. Additionally, increasing disease prevalence is also expected to trigger the demand for endoscopy devices market.Get Sample Research Report at :In order to give the users of this report a comprehensive view on the endoscopy devices market, we have included a detailed value chain analysis. To understand the competitive landscape in the market, an analysis of Porters Five Forces model for the endoscopy devices market has also been included. The study encompasses a market attractiveness analysis, wherein product segments and application segments are benchmarked based on their market size, growth rate and general attractiveness.The study provides a decisive view on the endoscopy devices market by segmenting the market based on products and applications. All the application segments have been analyzed based on present and future trends and the market is estimated from 2014 to 2020. Key product segmented market covered under this study includes endoscopes, operative devices and visualization systems. Key application market covered under this study includes gastrointestinal surgeries, urology/gynecology surgeries, ENT surgeries, cardiovascular surgeries, neuro/spinal surgeries, laparoscopy surgeries and arthroscopy surgeries.Endoscopy Devices Market: Regional AnalysisThe regional segmentation includes the current and forecast demand for North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Rest of the World with its further bifurcation into major countries including U.S. Germany, France, UK, China, Japan, India and Brazil. This segmentation includes demand for endoscopy based on individual applications in all the regions and countries.Browse the full report at:Endoscopy Devices Market: Competitive PlayersKey industry participants analyzed and profiled in this study includes CONMED Corporation, Olympus Corporation, Fujifilm Holding Corporation , Karl Storz Endoscopy, Boston Scientific Corporation, Pentax Medical Corporation , Cook Medical, Inc., Stryker Corporation, Covidien PLC, Smith & Nephew plc, Hoya Corporation, Medtronic plc, Richard Wolf GmbH, Fujifilm Holdings Corporation and Ethicon, Inc.Global Endoscopy Devices Market: Device Segment AnalysisEndoscopeOperative DevicesVisualization SystemsGlobal Endoscopy Devices Market: Application Segment AnalysisGastrointestinal SurgeriesUrology/Gynecology SurgeriesENT SurgeriesCardiovascular SurgeriesNeuro/Spinal SurgeriesLaparoscopy SurgeriesArthroscopy SurgeriesGlobal Endoscopy Devices Market: Region Segment AnalysisNorth AmericaU.S.EuropeGermanyUKFranceAsia PacificChinaJapanIndiaLatin AmericaBrazilMiddle East and AfricaAbout UsSyndicate Market Research provides a range of marketing and business research solutions designed for our clients specific needs based on our expert resources. The business scopes of Syndicate Market Research cover more than 30 industries includsing energy, new materials, transportation, daily consumer goods, chemicals, etc. We provide our clients with one-stop solution for all the research requirements.Contact US:Joel John3422 SW 15 Street,Suit #8138Deerfield Beach,Florida 33442United StatesToll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-386-310-3803Email: sales@syndicatemarketresearch.comWebsite:
Microscopy Devices Market will Grow Exponentially during 2016 2024
Microscopy Devices Market
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Microscopy Devices Market: OverviewMicroscopy devices are designed to produce magnified visual or photographic images of small objects. This microscopy device includes different lens designs with objectives and condensers as well as very simple single lens that are often magnifying glass. These devices are of different kinds like optical, electron and scanning probes microscopes. Electron microscopes form images from beams of electrons. Acoustic microscopes form images from high-frequency sound waves. The basic parts of a microscope are the objective, which holds the lens near the specimen, and the eyepiece, which holds the lens near the observer. Microscopy devices find in wide range of applications includes research department, medical sector, sciences, nanotechnology, etc.Get Sample Research Report at :Microscopy Devices Market: Growth FactorsRising global focus on nanotechnology research is a key driving factor of the microscopy devices market. The growth of the electronic and renewable energy industries is also expected to boost the demand of microscopy devices in semiconductor application sector. High resolution capacity of microscopy devices have opened up new opportunities in research & development in the fields of cell biology and neurology and this is expected to be moderate growth in the years to come. Furthermore, increasing use of electron and scanning probe microscopes with the advancement in the research objectives expected to propel the microscopy devices market over the forecast period.The microscopy devices market classification based on product, application and regional segment. On the basis of product, microscopy market has been segmented into optical microscopes, electron microscopes, scanning probe microscopes and others. An optical microscope was leading product segments of the market. Key applications include in microscopy market such as semiconductors, life sciences, nanotechnology, material sciences. Among the all application segment life science dominated the microscopy market closely followed by material sciences segment and semiconductors. All the market distribution on products and application has been analyzed based on present and future trends and the market is estimated from 2014 to 2020.Browse the full report atMicroscopy Devices Market: Regional AnalysisMajor regional segments analyzed in this study include North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa, further bifurcation of region on the country level, which include U.S., Germany, UK, France, China, Japan and India. Asia Pacific has witnessed strong growth of microscopy devices market in recent past years on account of the rising industrialization and advancement in nanotechnology associated R&D investments is driving the demand in this region. North America is expected to exhibit significant growth over the forecast period.Microscopy Devices Market: Competitive PlayersThe report covers detailed competitive scenario including the company overviews, financial revenues of the key participants to develop their positions in the global market. There is some major manufacture in the microscopy devices market such as FEI Company, Danish Micro Engineering A/S, Hitachi High, Leica Microsystems, Olympus, JEOL Company, Cameca SAS, Bruker Corporation, Carl Zeiss, Nikon and NT-MDT.Microscopy Devices Market: Product Segment AnalysisOptical microscopesInverted microscopesStereomicroscopePhase contrast microscopeFluorescence microscopeConfocal scanning microscopeNear field scanning microscopeOther optical microscopesElectron microscopesTransmission microscopesScanning electron microscopesScanning probes microscopesScanning tunneling microscopesAtomic force microscopesOtherMicroscopy Devices Market: Application Segment AnalysisSemiconductorsLife sciencesNanotechnologyMaterial sciencesOthersMicroscopy Devices Market: Regional Segment AnalysisNorth AmericaU.S.EuropeGermanyUKFranceAsia PacificChinaJapanIndiaLatin AmericaBrazilMiddle East & AfricaAbout UsSyndicate Market Research provides a range of marketing and business research solutions designed for our clients specific needs based on our expert resources. The business scopes of Syndicate Market Research cover more than 30 industries includsing energy, new materials, transportation, daily consumer goods, chemicals, etc. We provide our clients with one-stop solution for all the research requirements.Contact US:Joel John3422 SW 15 Street,Suit #8138Deerfield Beach,Florida 33442United StatesToll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-386-310-3803Email: sales@syndicatemarketresearch.comWebsite:
MASON CITY Marilyn Kay Halloran, 76, of Mason City, died Feb. 27, 2017, at Good Shepherd Health Care Center, Mason City.
A Memorial Mass will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 6, at Epiphany Parish St. Joseph Catholic Church, with Father Andrew A-Mensah.
Inurnment will be held at a later date in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Rockwell.
A visitation will be held 2-4 p.m. Sunday, March 5, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City. A rosary will be lead by the Catholic Daughters at 3:30 p.m., followed by a scriptural wake.
Memorial contributions will be directed to the family to be distributed to various charities.
Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapels, Mason City.
Saudi Arabia Pharmaceutical Market to Account for US$ 5.2 Bn in 2016
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The significant rise in lifestyle-related diseases and the developments in healthcare infrastructure are expected to influence the demand for pharmaceuticals in Saudi Arabia. In 2016, the Saudi Arabia pharmaceutical market is anticipated to procure value worth US$ 5,209.5 Mn at a y-o-y growth of 6.0 % over 2015. The mounting demand for branded drug products will continue to incite the growth of the Saudi Arabian pharmaceutical market in 2016.The demand for pharmaceuticals in Saudi Arabia is expected to register substantial growth owing to the increasing penetration of health insurance companies and the rising incidence rate of non-communicable diseases. Furthermore, the exceptional rise in the per capita income of Saudi Arabia is also expected to foster the demand for branded pharmaceutical drugs. Another key factor driving the growth of the pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia is the countrys strategic move to allow 100% FDI in the pharmaceuticals sector. Although, the shortage of profound indigenous research capacity in the pharmaceutical industry and the delayed registration of drug and medicine patents is expected to limit the expansion of the market in 2016 and beyond.Request For Report Sample:Based on the product type, the pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia is expected to witness an upsurge in the prescription-type branded drug products. In terms of market value, the branded drugs are estimated to reach US$ 2,760.8 Mn by 2016-end. The demand for generic drugs is projected to secure steady growth, attributing to the insisting promotion of generic drug adoption by healthcare insurance providers.On the basis of the diseases, the pharmaceutical drugs used for treatment of cardiovascular diseases will continue exhibiting robust growth in 2016. The demand for cardiovascular medications will continue to surge due to the prominence of circulatory disorders in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the rising prevalence of disorders related to body sugar levels is expected to make diabetes a rapidly growing disease-based sub-segment in the Saudi Arabia pharmaceutical market.The pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia is also segmented on the basis of distribution channel, where retail pharmacies will continue to account for 80% market share compared to hospital pharmacies. The westernised modernisation of retail pharmacies in Saudi Arabia has led to the availability of a wide range drugs and medicinal products, thereby attaining a considerable growth in the retail pharmacy sub-segment in 2016 and further.Send An Enquiry:The rising resource potential in Saudi Arabia is projected to positively reform the production environment for pharmaceutical manufacturers. In order to expand the markets size, structuring alliances with well-established native companies is predicted to be a key strategy for global pharmaceutical leaders. The key players in the Saudi Arabia pharmaceutical market include Novartis AG, SPIMACO, Pfizer Inc., and Glaxosmithkline plc., Jamjoom Pharma, and Tabuk Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Co. among others.Long-term Outlook: The Saudi Arabia pharmaceutical market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 9.0% over the forecast period 2016-2026. In terms of market value, the pharmaceutical market in Saudi Arabia is estimated to be worth US$ 12,281.4 Mn by the end of forecast period.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Market Forecast Report on Disposable Cups 2017-2027
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Introduction:The term disposable cups came into limelight in early 1900s when health hazards related to usage of common cups became evident. This developed the need for developing disposable cups and in the process, a new market was created. The growing demand for snacks and related products in place of traditional meals has led to an increase in demand for disposable cups. The disposable paper cups are lined with plastic or wax to prevent them from becoming soggy and also to prevent leakage. Paper cups are segmented into hot and cold cups. Cold cups have a coating of wax on both sides so that it doesnt get wet due to absorption of liquid. The hot cups, on the other hand, are specifically made to withstand heat and therefore, are only coated on one side.There are several consumer trends which have accelerated the growth of the disposable cups market -- a rise in the number of non-traditional families that prefer having their meals outside home, urbanization, the growing middle-class, and the coffee-on-the-go trend are some such factors. Moreover, there are several technology and product-based trends -- less plastic and more paper-based packaging, sustainability and convenience -- which are shaping the disposable cups market. However, the paper cups industry will benefit most from the restrictions imposed on polystyrene foam disposables, environmental concerns about foam cups, and also from the switch made by big food chains from foam to paper cups.Request For Report Sample@Disposable Cups Market - Market Dynamics:The growth in the disposable cups market is expected to be driven by the growth in the quick service restaurants industry, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% for the period between 2016 and 2024. Moreover, modernization as well as the fast-moving lifestyle of today have been pivotal factors driving growth in the disposable cups market. The adoption of on-the-go eating culture along with an increase in health consciousness and sanitization led restaurants, cafes and other food outlets to serve their drinks in disposable cups and hence, drove the demand for disposable cups. However, few restaurant chains and outlets have started deploying some strategies to reduce the usage of disposable cups due to its negative impact on the environment. These outlets promote the usage of reusable cups and also offer discounts to customers who use reusable mugs for to-go orders. In addition, recent government regulations like ban on disposable cups, regulations against the usage of plastic, etc. are expected to hinder the growth of disposable cups market.Disposable Cups Market- Market Segmentation:Based on product type, the global disposable cups market is segmented into following:Hot Paper cupsCold Paper cupsPlastic cupsPolystyrene foam cupsBased on end users, the global disposable cups market is segmented into following:Quick service restaurantsCoffee and Snack ShopsFast Casual RestaurantsHotelsBarsOfficesOrganizations like Railways, Airlines etc.Public & Private functionsBased on Application, the global disposable cups market is segmented into following:Hot BeveragesSoft DrinksIce creamsOthersDisposable Cups Market - Regional Outlook:Geographically, the global disposable cups market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC) and the Middle East & Africa (MEA). The global disposable cups market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 5% for the forecast period of 2016 to 2024. While North America is expected to witness an above global average growth in disposable cups market due to its growing foodservice industry as well as an increase in consumer spending, it is the Asia Pacific region which will most likely witness the fastest rates of growth in disposable cups market due to the general improvements registered in developing economies like India & China.Request For TOC@Disposable Cups Market - Key Players:Some of the major players identified across the globe in the disposable cups market are International Paper Company, Dart Container Corporation, Konie Cups International Inc, Huhtamaki N.A., Solo Cup Company, Lollicup USA, Inc, Letica Corporation, Manohar International Pvt. Ltd (MIPL), Georgia-Pacific LLC, and Guangzhou Kangbao Paper Cup.Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
New Research Report on Enterprise File Sync And Share Platform Market, 2017-2027
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Enterprise file synchronization and sharing (EFSS) are software services that aids enterprises to securely synchronize and share files including documents, media and others, from multiple devices and across multiple users. The synchronization capability entitles files to be stored in approved data warehouse and then accessed by users from PCs, tablets or smartphones that supports enterprise file sync and share products.The enterprise file sync and share platform providers are continuously enhancing the security capabilities including authentication, containerization, tracking features, data encryption in order to protect the enterprise data. The platform vendors that offer enterprise file sync and share service have multiple options for the enterprises such as hybrid or private cloud, or on-premises service. Mostly in hybrid or on-premise deployments, the files remain in the companys own data warehouse.Enterprise file sync and share platform adoption is driven by security, productivity and accessibility. Few emerging trends in the industry include integration with data loss prevention, enterprise content aggregation, and built-in editing apps. With the advancement in consumer technology, the collaboration and connection of people with their business environment and its enterprise file sync and share solution is becoming easier.Request For Report Sample@Enterprise File Sync and Share Platform Market: Drivers and ChallengesAs cloud storage has become more prominent, the prime factor driving the enterprise file sync and sharing platform market is proliferation of consumer mobility, bring your own device program and media tablets being utilized within the enterprises. Few other drivers to the market that encourage adoption of enterprise file sync and share platform include, growing adoption of virtualization, the ease of accessing the data from mobile devices anywhere and anytime.Data security is among the prime concerns with the usage of enterprise file sync and share platform that slows the adoption of EPSS impacting the market negatively. The lock in period and other regulations that the vendor provide while they offer enterprise file sync and share platform is hindering the rise in adoption of EFSS platform among the small, medium and large enterprises.Enterprise File Sync and Share Platform Market: SegmentationEnterprise file sync and share platform market can be segmented on the basis of solution, service, deployment type, end-user, and industryOn the basis of solution, enterprise file sync and share platform market can be segmented into enterprise storage and backup, enterprise content management system, cloud virtualization, enterprise mobility, enterprise document collaboration and othersOn the basis of service, enterprise file sync and share platform market can be segmented into managed service and professional serviceOn the basis of deployment type, enterprise file sync and share platform market can be segmented into on-premise and cloud basedOn the basis of end-user, enterprise file sync and share platform marketcan be segmented into small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and large enterprisesOn the basis of industry, enterprise file sync and share platform market can be segmented into banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI), retail and e-Commerce, IT and telecommunication, energy and utility, government offices and education, aerospace and defence, healthcare, transportation and logistics, and othersEnterprise File Sync and Share Platform Market: Regional OverviewRegionally, Enterprise File Sync and Share Platform Market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan, Japan, and Middle East and AfricaNorth America and Western Europe are among the prominent regions in adoption of enterprise file sync and share platform as the number of small, medium and large enterprises in the two regions are very high. Asia Pacific and Japan market are expected to have the highest growth rate in the coming few year as due to the increasing technological trends and industrial development. Latin America and Eastern Europe would witness positive growth in the coming years owing to the adoption of advanced technology in both the regionsEnterprise File Sync and Share Platform Market: Competition LandscapeFew prominent players in the enterprise file sync and share platform market include:Accellion Inc, Acronis International GmbH, Google Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Dropbox Inc., Citrix Systems Inc., Syncplicity Inc., IBM Corporation, Egnyte Inc., VMWare Inc., Zoho Corporation Pvt. Ltd.Request For TOC@Recent contracts/deals in Enterprise File Sync and Share Platform Market:In October 2016, Egnyte Inc., signed a strategic alliance with Microsoft Corporation, to use Microsofts Azure cloud computing platform for its business customer. This alliance would aid the company to offer end-to-end integration services to the customers.In November 2015, Egnyte Inc., partnered with Jive Software in order to connect their respective cloud-based services. This collaboration would enable the customers to utilize Jives business collaboration platform and Egnytes enterprise file sharing repository from any device or location that supports the software installation.Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Microfluidics Market Poised for Robust CAGR of over 14% through 2026
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Applications of microfluidics in drug delivery and diagnostics will continue to fuel the market for microfluidics over the next few years. The US$ 2.9 Bn microfluidics market will possibly cross US$ 11 Bn by the end of 2026. North America is expected to contribute over US$ 3 Bn to the total revenues in 2026. The collective share of North America and Asia Pacific will be over 40%, states Future Market Insights in a recently published market report outlook, titled Microfluidics Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2016-2026.The report by Future Market Insights analyses the global market for microfluidics over a 10-year forecast period, 2016-2026. The market is likely to witness a robust CAGR of 14.4% over the assessed period.Request Report Sample@Key Insights: Market DynamicsIncreasing discretionary funding from national labs for R&D in the developed regions will remain a primary factor driving the growth of market through 2026.Improving healthcare infrastructure and wide availability of affordable microfluidic devices or kits are also foreseen to boost the market growth in near future, especially in developing countries.Expansion of drug delivery sector will favour the market growth in near future.Consistent advancements in the fields of genomics and proteomics are also expected to benefit the sales of microfluidics-based devices and kits.Dynamic collaborations between key market players and active involvement of government entities will collectively foster the market through 2026.Key Insights: SegmentsCeramics will remain dominant material typeBased on material, ceramics will continue to be the most sought after material for microfluidic device or kit manufacturing. Ceramics segment is expected to remain dominance, accounting for over 42% market value share in 2026, followed by glass, polymer, and silicon. While ceramics is likely to witness the fastest growth, polymer segment is anticipated to exhibit a significant CAGR of over 15% over 2016-2026, driven by PVC.POCT will be dominant application segmentBy application, POCT (point of care testing) segment is projected to retain dominance through 2026, accounting for over 33% share in terms of revenues. Clinical diagnostics and analytical testing will remain the next major segments in the global microfluidics market.In-vitro diagnostics industry will hold maximum revenue shareOn the basis of industry, in-vitro diagnostics, life science research, and pharmaceuticals are likely to be the key segments. In-vitro diagnostics segment is estimated to hold a share of over 35% in the total market revenues. The fastest growing segment will be in-vitro diagnosis.APEJ will be the most lucrative regional marketGeographically, North America, followed by Western Europe are expected to remain the dominant regions for microfluidics, capturing respective market value share of over 26% and over 21% share by 2026 end. Asia Pacific (excluding Japan) will possibly represent the most lucrative market, expanding at a significant CAGR of over 14% throughout the forecast period. This growth is attributed to growing use of microfluidics devices and kits for in-vitro diagnostics. North America and Western Europe will also exhibit significant growth rates over 2016-2026.Send An Enquiry@Key Insights: Leading Market PlayersSome of the most prominent players in the global microfluidics market, include Agilent Technologies, PerkinElmer Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Qiagen NV, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Fluidigm Corporation, Abbott Laboratories, and F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.Almost all the leading companies serve point of care testing application and survive the competition with an individual differentiating strategy. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and Abbott Laboratories, through active engagement in agreements and collaborations with leading regional companies, highlight a growing trend of strategic mergers and acquisitions among the top companies.About Us Future Market Insights is the premier provider of market intelligence and consulting services, serving clients in over 150 countries. FMI is headquartered in London, the global financial capital, and has delivery centers in the U.S. and India.Contact Us:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way,Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage,New York 10989,United StatesTel: +1-347-918-3531Fax: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Aircraft Washing Systems Market to register a healthy CAGR for the forecast period, 2017-2027
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Over the years, more than dozens of people would be involved in washing an aircraft, which was not only immensely time consuming, but the eminence of work was also not up to international standards. On an average, a team of 17 to 20 people would take about 9 to 10 hours to clean one Jumbo (707) aircraft. Also, there are other issues to be considered, such as injuries caused by even a minor carelessness. Presently, in many countries aircraft washing and cleaning is assigned to manual labor. In India, Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi) will soon get washing robots to clean jumbo jets. According to DIAL (Delhi International Airport Limited), the technology will be imported from Sweden. Currently, apart from British airports, this technique is used by Qatar and Thai airways. The new aircraft washing systems will be entirely computerized and will comprise spray nozzles, cleaning brushes and mobile power units.In the Middle East region, the aviation industry is very keen on green practices. Airlines cannot afford spending extensive periods of time on cleaning activities. Therefore, a company named Clean Middle East developed a new aircraft washing technology known as dry wash. Dry wash is developed and produced by Rhoba-Chemie GmbH, (Germany) to clean aircrafts without water. This concept has a big edge over its counterpart since it inhibits corrosion, improves physical appearance, reduces chemically contaminated waste water and minimizes water consumption.As the use of airplanes has increased exponentially, commercial and private aircraft agencies spend billions of dollars every year in aircraft maintenance. Now, international standards of aviation safety and rules also mandate aircraft cleaning. Cleaning is done by both, private and in-house agencies. However, cleaning is not a secondary job and must be carried out with possible aircraft washing systems (equipment).Request For Report Sample@The commonly used aircraft washing equipment are:Carts used to clean the floor of an airplane are included in aircraft washing systemsCoatings used to add extra shine are included in aircraft washing systemsAero brushes used to remove dust from surface are included in aircraft washing systemsWax and buff balls used in the belly area are also included in aircraft washing systemsAircraft squeegee used to remove water and liquid from different areas are included in aircraft washing systemsWashing mops used to clean the surface are included in aircraft washing systemsAircraft washing systems companies such as Riveer (U.S.) have launched automated aircraft washing systems. Such aircraft washing systems take two minutes to clean the aircraft and the wash water is reclaimed and reused again.Aircraft Washing Systems: DynamicsThere is a never ending battle against corrosion in aircraft maintenance, particularly in rotary aircrafts operating over saltwater. Therefore, the U.S. Department of Defense has concluded on rinsing the aircrafts on a weekly or daily basis to combat this problem. Increase in these aircrafts and their running is forecasted to directly create demand and a large growth opportunity for the aircraft washing systems market.Aircraft Washing Systems: Segmentation by MethodWhen it comes to washing the exterior of an aircraft, there are two types of methods: dry and wet. The wet wash requires water and cleaning agent (soap) in three steps, i.e. scrub, rinse and dry. The major problem with this method is that the water needs to be clean and mineral-free. However, most water has some mineral content, which actually captures dirt and leaves deposits on the surface.On the other hand, the dry wash method cleans and shines the surface in a single step and hence, is becoming a more popular choice. As compared to a wet wash, the cost of dry wash chemicals are expensive and much like waxing your car. This process involves a lot of elbow grease but end results are often less intrusive. With a dry wash interior cleaning and maintenance can be performed simultaneously.Request For TOC@Aircraft washing systems: Market ParticipantsExamples of some of the market participants in the global aircraft washing systems market identified across the value chain include:RiveerNordic Aerowash EquipmentHydro Engineered Inc.Cleaning Debrring Finishing Inc.JRI IndstriesStoelting Cleaning EqipmentUtrasonic Power CorporationJensen Fabricating Engineers Inc.Wanner Engineering Inc.Ransohoff CincinnatiEncon EvaporatorsDaimler Industries Inc.KMT Aqua Dyne Inc.Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Global Water and Wastewater Management Market in Mining Sector 2017-2021 - Analyzing Key vendors (The Dow Chemical Company, GE Water & Process Technologies, Lenntech, Pall & Veolia)
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Albany, NY, March 03, 2017: Water and soil pollution are critical concerns in the mining industry and can be caused by toxic heavy metals, surfactants, fine particles of minerals, oil and grease, soaps and detergents, rubber, poisonous chemicals, high acidic or alkaline chemicals, and coal particles. The industry is looking for a sustainable practice to reduce its environmental impact. Mining chemicals along with water and wastewater treatment equipment play an important role in this by treating water to remove impurities and waste.The global water and waste water management market for the mining sector to grow at a CAGR of 4.83% during the period 2017-2021. The report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global water and waste water management market for the mining sector for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report presents a detailed picture of the market by way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:- Americas- APAC- EMEAGet a Sample Research PDF with TOC:Technavio's report, Global Water And Waste Water Management Market For The Mining Sector 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendors- The Dow Chemical Company- GE Water & Process Technologies- Lenntech- Pall- VeoliaOther prominent vendors- Amec Foster Wheeler- AQUARION- Aquatech International- BioteQ Environmental Technologies- Carmeuse- Golder Associates- IDE Technologies- Miwatek- MWH Global- newterra- Saltworks Technologies- SUEZ Water & Treatment SolutionsMarket driver- Introduction of ever-more stringent environmental law.- For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge- Complexities of managing wastewater resources.- For a full, detailed list, view our reportEnquiry at:Key questions answered in this report- What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be?- What are the key market trends?- What is driving this market?- What are the challenges to market growth?- Who are the key vendors in this market space?- What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?ResearchMoz is the worlds fastest growing collection of market research reports worldwide. Our database is composed of current market studies from over 100 featured publishers worldwide. Our market research databases integrate statistics with analysis from global, regional, country and company perspectives. ResearchMozs service portfolio also includes value-added services such as market research customization, competitive landscaping, and in-depth surveys, delivered by a team of experienced Research Coordinators.Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-621-2074Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:
Disposable Hygiene Adhesives Market Trends and Segments 2017-2027
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Today, disposable hygiene adhesives plays a very important role in the manufacture of user-friendly and environment-friendly hygiene products. The disposable hygiene adhesives are mainly used for the production of disposable hygienic products such as baby diapers (nappies), feminine care products, and adult care products. Also these adhesives are used in other hygienic applications including medical dressings, hospital bed pads, and surgical drapes. Basic usage of disposable hygiene products is for the absorption of liquids or solids with no leakage and enough comfort. Depending on their end-use, different kinds of disposable hygiene adhesives are employed for different applications. For example, spiral spray adhesive and elastic waistband attachment adhesives are the common adhesives used for diaper manufacture.Global Disposable Hygiene Adhesives Market: DynamicsDisposable hygiene adhesives are used across various end-use industries such as packaging, healthcare, personal care, and pharmaceutical. Upsurge in demand for different end-use products is the crucial factor boosting the demand for disposable hygiene adhesives, in turn, propelling the overall growth of global disposable hygiene adhesives market. Also, increasing use of disposable hygienic products due to better education, awareness through media, affordability & availability of disposable hygiene products, etc. are promoting the growth of global disposable adhesives market. Also awareness and increasing adoption of female hygienic products in Asian countries such as India and China is an important driver for disposable hygiene adhesives market in the APAC region.Request For Report Sample@Currently, media makes people more aware about importance of disposable hygienic products and its environment-friendly nature. The government organizations also try to promote the use of these hygienic products to improve the health of infants, kids, and women. Consumers are looking for improved features of the products such as thinner cores, better absorption, improved softness, and changing substrates.Global Disposable Hygiene Adhesives Market: SegmentationThe global disposable hygiene adhesives market can be segmented on the basis of origin, type, application, end-user, and end-use industry. On the basis of origin, global disposable hygiene adhesives market can be segmented into synthetic adhesives and natural adhesives. On the basis of type, global disposable hygiene adhesives market can be segmented into hot melt adhesives, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), amorphous poly-alpha-olefin (APAO) and polyurethane, and adhesives based on styrene block copolymers (styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS), styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene (SEBS), and others. On the basis of application, global disposable hygiene adhesives market can be segmented into construction adhesive (or bonding adhesive), core adhesive (or fluff pad adhesive), positioning adhesive, elastic adhesive, frontal tape adhesive, side tape adhesive, and others. On the basis of end-user, global disposable hygiene adhesives market can be segmented into baby & infant care, feminine care, adult care, specific or specialty care, and others. On the basis of end-use industries, global disposable hygiene adhesives market can be segmented into medical and healthcare, personal care, pharmaceutical, and other packaging applications.Global Disposable Hygiene Adhesives Market: Region-wise OutlookNorth America and Asia Pacific are expected to be the key regions for disposable hygiene adhesives market in the upcoming years. China, Japan, and India are expected to remain key countries in the Asia Pacific disposable hygiene adhesives market throughout the forecast period. The betterment in education sector and increasing awareness about the necessity of hygiene products in Asia Pacific propel the disposable hygiene adhesives market in the region.Also, the disposable hygiene products demand in Europe is expected to increase in future with moderate growth rate followed by Middle East & Africa and Latin America.Request For TOC@Global Disposable Hygiene Adhesives Market: Market ParticipantsExamples of some of the market participants involved in the manufacture of disposable hygiene adhesives include Bostik SA, H.B. Fuller, Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, Nordson Corporation, The Dow Chemical Company, Foreverest Resources Ltd., GitAce, Guangdong Rurga New Material Technology Co., Ltd., TSRC Corporation, and Exxon Mobil Corporation among others.Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
The US Laser Cutting Machine Market 2017-2021 featuring Key Vendors Bystronic, Coherent, IPG Photonics, Mazak Optonics & TRUMPF
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Albany, NY, March 03, 2017: Laser cutting machines have high-power lasers that can vaporize a range of materials from steel to plastics with high levels of precision. The versatility of these machines enables manufacturers to cut various types of materials to develop products and components that have complex geometry. Therefore, laser cutting machines provide an efficient and effective process in the industrial manufacturing sectorThe laser cutting machine market in the US to grow at a CAGR of 5.50% during the period 2017-2021. The report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the laser cutting machine market in the US for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the low-power lasers and the market estimations are based upon end-use applications and not based on material thickness. The end-user applications included are considered under the micro-material processing only.Get a Sample Research PDF with TOC:Technavio's report, Laser Cutting Machine Market in The US 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendors- Bystronic- Coherent- IPG Photonics- Mazak Optonics- TRUMPFOther prominent vendors- Vytek Laser Systems- Amada America- Jenoptik- Hypertherm- Cutlite Penta- DANOBATGROUP- CYLASER- Laser Photonics- BLM- Sahajanand Laser Technology- CincinnatiMarket driver- Increasing need to develop superior-quality products- For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge- Uncertainties in business policies due to recent US presidential elections- For a full, detailed list, view our reportEnquiry at:Key questions answered in this report- What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be?- What are the key market trends?- What is driving this market?- What are the challenges to market growth?- Who are the key vendors in this market space?- What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?ResearchMoz is the worlds fastest growing collection of market research reports worldwide. Our database is composed of current market studies from over 100 featured publishers worldwide. Our market research databases integrate statistics with analysis from global, regional, country and company perspectives. ResearchMozs service portfolio also includes value-added services such as market research customization, competitive landscaping, and in-depth surveys, delivered by a team of experienced Research Coordinators.Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-621-2074Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:
Carrageenan Gum Market to Soar at Moderate CAGR of 4.3% during 2016-2024
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In spite of recording global sales of over 60,000 metric tonnes in 2016, Future Market Insights predicts that the global demand for carrageenan gum will witness a considerable decline. A latest research report published by Future Market Insights projects that by the end of 2024, the global consumption of carrageenan gum would have soared moderately at 4.3% CAGR and surpassed 88,000 metric tonnes. The report further reveals the real reason behind sluggish sales of carrageenan gum in the world.According to the report, titled Carrageenan Gum Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2016-2024, the common fallacy that renders carrageenan gum as harmful ingredient has been instrumenting the decelerated growth in its global sales. Misconceptions arising from ambiguous status of carrageenan gum as a viable food ingredient has restrained the market from attaining a steady growth. The global carrageenan gum market, which is presently valued over US$ 700 million, is hence anticipated to register a 4% CAGR and bring in close to US$ 1 billion by the end of 2024.Request Report Sample@Limited availability of raw carrageenan is also expected to keep curbing the production of carrageenan gum in the world. A majority of carrageenan gum produced across the globe gets consumed by food and beverage manufacturers. The report reveals how more than half of global carrageenan gum revenues are accounted by food & beverage industries. Presence of carrageenan gum is also gaining traction in production of personal care products & toiletries. In 2016, nearly ten thousand metric tonnes of carrageenan gum were consumed by this segment. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical manufacturers are expected to lower their participation in the global consumption of carrageenan gum, owing to the ingredients speculative status and prolonging FDA approvals. Carrageenan gum will also be used in production of animal feed and pet food products, revenues from which are projected to surpass US$ 200 million by the end of 2024.A regional analysis of global carrageenan gum market projected higher demand for carrageenan gum in Europe. Apropos the report, Europe will contribute to more than 35% of global carrageenan gum revenues throughout the forecast period. Revenues emanating from Europe are also expected to rise at 4.4% CAGR, while the regions carrageenan gum consumption will register growth at 4.8% CAGR. Meanwhile, North America and Asia-Pacific will collectively account for almost 50% of global carrageenan gum revenues through 2024. Latin Americas carrageenan gum market, on the other hand, will bring in nearly US$ 120 million in revenues. Middle East & Africas carrageenan gum revenues, however, will be registering the slowest CAGR over the forecast period.Send An Enquiry@A majority of carrageenan gum manufacturers in the world are based in the US. Companies such as CP Kelco ApS, FMC Corporation, E. I. DuPont de Nemours and Co., Ingredient Solution Inc., and Cargill, Incorporated are prominent players in the global carrageenan gum market. The market is also witnessing higher participation from companies namely, Compania Espanola de Algas Marinas S.A. (CEAMSA), W. Hydrocolloids Inc., Altrafine Gum, Kerry Group, Extractos Naturales Gelymar S. A., and Marcel Trading Corporation.About Us Future Market Insights is the premier provider of market intelligence and consulting services, serving clients in over 150 countries. FMI is headquartered in London, the global financial capital, and has delivery centers in the U.S. and India.Contact Us:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way,Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage,New York 10989,United StatesTel: +1-347-918-3531Fax: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
global revenues emanating from sales of hybrid vehicles will be soaring at an exponential CAGR of 20.4% between 2016 and 2026
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A gradual decline reported in oil & gasoline prices across the globe wont suffice to drag down the global sales of electric and hybrid vehicles.A recent research report published by Future Market Insights projects that the global revenues emanating from sales of hybrid vehicles will be soaring at an exponential CAGR of 20.4% between 2016 and 2026. The global hybrid vehicles market, which is presently valued at almost US$ 60 billion, will bring in over US$ 430 billion in revenues by the end of 2026. Future Market Insights also anticipates that worlds leading hybrid vehicle manufacturers will keep focusing towards development of passenger cars and increasing their production capacity to meet the surging demand for compact hybrid SUVs.Passenger cars are expected to be the top-selling vehicle segment in the global hybrid vehicle market. By the end of 2026, more than US$ 350 billion revenues are likely to be amassed by global sales of hybrid passenger cars. The report also reveals the impact of electric propulsion motors alignment to internal combustion engine in driving the sales of hybrid vehicles in the world. According to the report, power train configurations of hybrid vehicles will remain to be a crucial deciding factor for customers. During the forecast period, at least six out of every ten hybrid vehicles being sold in the world will be equipped with a power-split hybrid configuration. Contrarily, the demand for parallel hybrid and series hybrid configurations will drop, and will collectively be worth just over 20% of global revenues by the end of 2026.Request Report Sample@Gasoline Hybrid vs. Diesel HybridApropos the type of engines installed in these hybrid vehicles, people are undoubtedly inclined towards buying a gasoline-hybrid vehicle. Performance and fuel efficiency of gasoline hybrid engines has been evaluated to be higher compared to diesel hybrid engines. Moreover, diesel engines tend to be heavier than gasoline engines, thereby lowering the fuel efficiency and adding the unwanted torque to hybrid vehicles. In 2016, approximately 318,000 units of diesel hybrid engines were sold in the world. But, the consumption of gasoline-hybrid will keep imposing an unmatched imprint on global sales of diesel hybrid vehicles. Through 2026, close to US$ 400 billion worth of gasoline-hybrid engines have been anticipated to be sold in the global hybrid vehicle market.Key research findings in the report, titled Hybrid Vehicles Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2016-2026, include:Lack of charging stations is observed to be the greatest challenge for adoption of hybrid vehiclesAround 20% of global hybrid vehicle revenues throughout the projected period will be accounted by global sales plug-in hybrid vehicles.Japan will register the highest revenue growth for hybrid vehicles, procuring more than US$ 270 billion by 2026-endAfter Japan, North America and Western Europe will collectively account for more than 30% value share in the global hybrid vehicle marketSilent operability of hybrid vehicles also promotes its consumption among regions riddled with rising noise pollution levelsSend An Enquiry@Toyotas Prius Best-Selling Hybrid Car of All TimeLeading automaker, Toyota Motor Corporation, continues to be one of the largest players in the global hybrid vehicle market. Its flagship hybrid model Prius has recorded sales of more than 200,000 units in 2015. Giving it a run for its money is Nissans Leaf, and Clarity and Fit EV by Honda. While Nissan Motor Corporation continues to consolidate its position in North America, Honda Motor Co. Ltd. is proliferating across the Japanese hybrid vehicle market. Other companies partaking in the growth of global hybrid vehicle market include, Bayerische Motoren Werke, AG, Daimler AG, Groupe Renault, General Motors Company and Ford Motor Company.About Us Future Market Insights is the premier provider of market intelligence and consulting services, serving clients in over 150 countries. FMI is headquartered in London, the global financial capital, and has delivery centers in the U.S. and India.Contact Us:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way,Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage,New York 10989,United StatesTel: +1-347-918-3531Fax: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
MASON CITY Merlyn Ulrich, 90, of Mason City, died March 2, 2017, at Hospice of North Iowa, Mason City.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, March 7, at 10:30 a.m. at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, Mason City, with the Rev. Ed Bard officiating.
Burial will be at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery, Mason City, with military honors conducted by the Mason City Veterans.
Visitation will be held from 4-6 p.m. Monday, March 6, at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel.
Family suggests memorial contributions to Hospice of North Iowa.
Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapels, Mason City.
Rear Axle Market To Experience Growth Due To Increasing Concern Over Safety And Security Till 2024: Grand View Research, Inc.
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The global rear axle market is expected to reach USD 57.77 billion by 2024, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The increasing concern over safety and security is anticipated to drive demand over the forecast period.The increasing urbanization in the developed countries has led the consumers to seek alternatives to car ownership. Integrated mobility business and car-sharing has become the ongoing trend in the developed nations. The original equipment manufacturers are expected to diversify the product portfolio for offering services which include car-sharing to have a wider presence in all the diversified segments.The increasing demand for value for money (VFM), which includes high mileage and fuel efficient products, is anticipated to catapult the vehicle industry. Developed markets, such as Europe and the U.S., represent the dominant share in the industry. Intense competition in the developed markets has led to a shift in the focus toward the emerging markets. Furthermore, the changing lifestyle, rise in disposable income, and stabilizing economic conditions have also led the emerging countries, such as India and China, to exhibit market growth.The development of new technology, which includes connected cars, is a fully-digitized vehicle with advanced infotainment systems. Moreover, apps, Wi-Fi, and vehicle-to-vehicle communications have enhanced the basic safety such as position and speed, real-time location, and routing based on traffic conditions. Also, the development of smart cars, which provide a relinquishing control of vehicles with functions such as self-parking, self-braking, automatic accident avoidance features, automatic cruise control based on road conditions. The economic slowdown and falling stock prices have affected the sales of the automotive industry. China Association of Automobile Manufacturing (CAAM) confirmed a weaker growth of the sector as compared to that in 2014.Browse full research report on Global Rear Axle Market: (Further key findings from the study suggest: In 2015, the drive axles segment accounted for over 40% of the overall revenue. Numerous interconnecting systems have been incorporated with the drive shaft to increase efficiency, control the movement, and power. With the engine power turning the axle to create movement, drive shafts are used in a broad spectrum of vehicles. The economy vehicles segment is estimated to witness an enormous growth and is anticipated to reach over USD 22.0 billion by 2024. The demand is reflected in the shorter lead times in development, higher fuel economy, lower vehicle noise, and higher engine power. Rear axles used in these vehicles which offer better fuel consumption and lower noise levels. The Asia Pacific rear axle market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2016 to 2024. Emerging countries, such as South Africa, India, and Malaysia, are expected to boost the overall industry demand. SA exhibited a significant growth under the motor industry development program. Economy vehicles are expected to dominate the overall market in context with the rear axle application. Notable companies operating in the rear axle market include American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Dana Holding Corporation, Meritor, Inc., Daimler Trucks North America LLC, and ROC Spicer Ltd.Grand View Research has segmented the global rear axle market on the basis of type, application, and region:Rear Axle Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2015 - 2024) Drive Dead LiftRear Axle Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2015 - 2024) Heavy vehicles Luxury vehicles Executive vehicles Economy vehicle SUV MUV RailwaysRear Axle Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2015 - 2024) North America Europe Asia Pacific RoWFor more information:About Grand View ResearchGrand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. To help clients make informed business decisions, we offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across a range of industries, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare.Press ContactSherry James - Corporate Relations Specialist28 2nd Street, Suite 3036San Francisco, CA 94105United StatesPhone: 1-415-349-0058Email: sales@grandviewresearch.com
Global Peroxyacetic Acid Market is Expected to Touch USD1, 092.5 Million by 2027
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Global Peroxyacetic Acid Market is Expected to Touch $1,092.5 Million by The End of Forecasted Year With a CAGR of 7.11%.Peroxyacetic Acid is used in the major applications such as food industry, healthcare industry, water treatment industry, pulp & paper industries and others such as agriculture and laundry. Peroxyacetic acid is utilized as an antimicrobial for indoor hard surfaces, for example, bathrooms, washrooms, medicinal offices, sustenance foundations and rural premises. It can furthermore be utilized as a part of wineries, beverage plants, and bottling works as pasteurizers, on nourishment preparing equipment, in dairy/cheddar handling plants, as disinfectant in therapeutic supplies, in pulp industry for anticipation of bio film development.Request a Sample Report @Key Findings: The global peroxyacetic acid market and is expected to reach $1,092.5 million by 2027 Disinfectant accounted for the largest market share registering CAGR of 8.37% during the forecast period Regionally, Europe holds the largest market share 29%% of global peroxyacetic acid market and is expected to reach $325.1 million by 2027 from $135.5 million in 2015 Asia Pacific market is expected to be the fastest growing market, and expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.02% from 2016 to 2027 On the basis of applications, food segment holds 27% market shareKey Players Solvay Chemicals Evonik Industries Ecolab Aditya Birla Chemicals Promox S.P.A Christeyns Enviro Tech Chemical Services Peroxychem Seitz GmbhMarket DynamicsThe global peroxyacetic acid market is a very dynamic market and is expected to witness a high growth in coming five years. The demand of peroxyacetic acid is poised to be driven by growing food demand, rising population and rising preference for clean water. Furthermore, increasing demand for packaged food has also propelled the demand of peroxyacetic acid.SegmentationBy Types: Disinfectant, Sanitizer and SterilantBy Application: Food, Healthcare, Water Treatment, Pulp & Paper and OthersBy Region: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and RowMarket Analysis of Peroxyacetic Acid MarketThis chemical is commercially sold in its refined structure, distilled or as a 1-50% solution containing hydrogen peroxide acidic acid and water. Peroxyacetic acid is considered ad the most grounded oxidizing agent with a scope of applications including sanitization, disinfection, bleaching and sterilization. These applications mostly decompose in to the environment and do not leave any unsafe build-up. These flexible properties of the chemical settle on it the favoured choice of different family, households and end usersBrowse full Peroxyacetic Acid Market @Table of Content1 Report Prologue2 Introductions3 Research Methodologies4 Market Dynamics5 Market Factor Analysis5.1 Porter's 5 Forces Analysis5.2 Value Chain Analysis6 Global Peroxyacetic Acid Market: Trade Data6.1 Imports by Region6.2 Exports by Region7 Global Peroxyacetic Acid Market, By Type7.1 Introduction7.2 Market Size (Sub Segments)7.2.1 Disinfectant7.2.2 Sanitizer7.2.3 Sterilant8 Global Peroxyacetic Acid Market, By Application8.1 Introduction8.2 Market Size (Sub Segments)8.2.1 Food8.2.2 Healthcare8.2.3 Water Treatment8.2.4 Pulp & Paper8.2.5 Others (Agriculture & Laundry)9 Global Peroxyacetic Acid Market, By Region9.1 Market Size by Region9.1.1 North America9.1.2 Europe9.1.3 Asia-Pacific9.1.4 Middle East9.1.5 Africa9.1.6 South America10 Buyers and Suppliers Profile11 Company Profile11.1 Solvay Chemicals11.2 Evonik Industries11.3 Ecolab11.4 Aditya Birla Chemicals11.5 Promox S.P.A11.6 Christeyns11.7 Enviro Tech Chemical Services11.8 Peroxychem11.9 Seitz Gmbh12 ConclusionAbout Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.Contact:Akash AnandMarket Research FutureMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Flow Meters Market Estimated to Expand at a Robust CAGR over 2024
http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/flow-meters-market.asp
Subtitle: The Flow Meters Market report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.The global flow meter market can be segmented by application, by product and by geography. The product type is further segmented into Magnetic, Coriolis, positive displacement, turbine, vortex and others. Magnetic flow meter lead the global market in terms of value in 2012. Magnetic flow meters are majorly used in wastewater and water industry. Main applications of Coriolis flow meter include petrochemical and refining, chemicals, oil and gas and other industries. Geography segment covers North America, Europe, Asia pacific and RoW.This market is expected to show the single digit growth in CARG by 2019. Rapid industrialization and growing population in Asia Pacific act as drivers for this market. Growing population requires wastewater and water infrastructure in that region. Africa and Middle East also have huge potential for flow meters market.Asia pacific continues to remain the largest market for flow meters, followed by North America and Europe. Asia Pacific market is expected to grow owing to huge investment by increasing demand for flow meters from different types of industries.The main key players for this industry include ABB Ltd., Yokogawa Electric Co., Hitachi ltd., Honeywell International ltd., Emerson Electric Co., Endress+Hauser AG and Siemens AG among others.Browse Full Report summary and to request sample report and table of content @About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Persistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd.305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA - Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.com
Global Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size, Status, Industry Analysis And Forecast 2022: Software Management, Services Management
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This report studies the global Agile Application Life-Cycle Management market, analyzes and researches the Agile Application Life-Cycle Management development status and forecast in United States, EU, Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia. This report focuses on the top players in global market, likeHewlett-Packard Development CompanyElectric CloudIBM CorporationChangepoint CorporationAtlassian CorporationCA TechnologiesMicrosoft CorporationVersionOneMarket segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEUJapanChinaIndiaSoutheast AsiaMarket segment by Type, Agile Application Life-Cycle Management can be split intoSoftware ManagementServices ManagementMarket segment by Application, Agile Application Life-Cycle Management can be split intoBFSI IndustryIT & Telecommunications IndustryHealthcareRetail IndustryGovernmentManufacturing IndustryOthersGet Sample Copy Of This Report:Table of ContentsGlobal Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size, Status and Forecast 20221 Industry Overview of Agile Application Life-Cycle Management1.1 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Overview1.1.1 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size and Analysis by Regions1.2.1 United States1.2.2 EU1.2.3 Japan1.2.4 China1.2.5 India1.2.6 Southeast Asia1.3 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market by Type1.3.1 Software Management1.3.2 Services Management1.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market by End Users/Application1.4.1 BFSI Industry1.4.2 IT & Telecommunications Industry1.4.3 Healthcare1.4.4 Retail Industry1.4.5 Government1.4.6 Manufacturing Industry1.4.7 Others2 Global Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Competition Analysis by Players2.1 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size (Value) by Players (2016 and 2017)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in FutureBrowse More ICT Market research Reports:3 Company (Top Players) Profiles3.1 Hewlett-Packard Development Company3.1.1 Company Profile3.1.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.1.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.1.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.1.5 Recent Developments3.2 Electric Cloud3.2.1 Company Profile3.2.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.2.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.2.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.2.5 Recent Developments3.3 IBM Corporation3.3.1 Company Profile3.3.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.3.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.3.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.3.5 Recent Developments3.4 Changepoint Corporation3.4.1 Company Profile3.4.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.4.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.4.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.4.5 Recent Developments3.5 Atlassian Corporation3.5.1 Company Profile3.5.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.5.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.5.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.5.5 Recent Developments3.6 CA Technologies3.6.1 Company Profile3.6.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.6.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.6.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.6.5 Recent Developments3.7 Microsoft Corporation3.7.1 Company Profile3.7.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.7.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.7.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.7.5 Recent Developments3.8 VersionOne3.8.1 Company Profile3.8.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.8.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.8.4 Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.8.5 Recent Developments4 Global Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size by Type and Application (2012-2017)4.1 Global Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size by Type (2012-2017)4.2 Global Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size by Application (2012-2017)4.3 Potential Application of Agile Application Life-Cycle Management in Future4.4 Top Consumer/End Users of Agile Application Life-Cycle Management5 United States Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Development Status and Outlook5.1 United States Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size (2012-2017)5.2 United States Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)6 EU Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Development Status and Outlook6.1 EU Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size (2012-2017)6.2 EU Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)7 Japan Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Development Status and Outlook7.1 Japan Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size (2012-2017)7.2 Japan Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)8 China Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Development Status and Outlook8.1 China Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size (2012-2017)8.2 China Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)9 India Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Development Status and Outlook9.1 India Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size (2012-2017)9.2 India Agile Application Life-Cycle Management Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)MarketResearchReports.biz supports your business intelligence needs with over 100,000 market research reports, company profiles, data books, and regional market data sheets in its repository. Our document database is updated by the hour, which means that you always have access to fresh data spanning over 300 industries and their sub-segments.State Tower90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948(USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
Salsas, Dips and Spreads Market is Expected to Grow at a CAGR of 5% by 2022
Salsas, Dips and Spreads Market
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Market Research Future published a half cooked research report on the global salsas, dips & spreads market has been estimated to grow over 5% post 2022.Market Overview:Salsa is generally a tomato-based sauce or dip which includes various ingredients such as onions, chilies, beans, corn, and various spices. It is the Italian and Spanish term for sauce, and also referred to the sauces typical of Mexican cuisine known as salsa picante, particularly those used as dips in English speaking countries. Introduction of new flavors, packaging material will boost the market growth during the forecast period. Globally the market for salsas, dips and spreads is expected to grow at the rate of about 5% from 2016 to 2022.Market Forecast:Global Salsas, Dips and Spreads Market is mainly driven by increase in demand for savory snacks. Improved traction towards new flavors and snack products mainly in the younger consumer groups is driving higher sales of salsas, dips and spreads. Introduction of new ingredients and innovative packaging is also supporting market growth and expanding retail formats are also supporting the market growth.These factors will play a key role to grow salsas, dips and spreads market at CAGR of 5% during forecast period.Request a Sample Copy @Key Players of Salsas, Dips and Spreads Market: Frontera Foods Inc. (U.S.) Hot Sauce Harry's (U.S.) Tostitos (U.S.) Sabra (U.S.) Ricos (U.S.) Arizona Spice Company (U.S.) Desert Pepper Trading Company (U.S.) Cornitos (India) Salsalito (India) Britannia Foods (India)The demand for salsas, dips and spreads has pushed manufacturers to include new flavors and develop new salsa sips and spread products which are developed as per consumer preferences.Downstream Market Analysis:Consumer preferences are tending more towards healthy aspects like low fat, salt and calorie products is supporting the salsas, dips and spreads market. Increase in production of savory snacks is also encouraging higher production of salsas, dips and spreads which serve as accompaniments. Increase in consumer awareness about various products through various social media platforms will further boost sale of salsas, dips and spreads.Market Segmentation:Global salsas, dips and spreads market is segmented by product type, cuisine, specialty type, food preference, flavor type, and region.Brief TOC for Salsas, Dips and Spreads Market:1 Executive Summary2 Market Introduction2.1 Definition2.2 Scope of the study2.2.1 Research Objectives2.2.2 Assumptions2.2.3 Limitations2.3 Markets Structure2.4 Stakeholders3 Research Methodology3.1 Research process3.2 Secondary research3.3 Primary research3.4 Forecast model3.5 Market Size estimation4 Market Dynamics4.1 Drivers4.2 Restraints4.3 Opportunities4.4 ChallengesContinueAccess Report Details @Regional Analysis:The global salsas, dips and spreads market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW). Among this North America region has major market share followed by Asia Pacific and Europe. Changing consumption patterns, growing tendency towards western snack foods has resulted in higher demand for salsas, dips and spreads globally.Strengthening retail network and distribution through e-commerce will further support the growth of salsas, dips and spreads market.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Molded Plastics Market: Emerging Economies Hive of Opportunities for Market Players By 2024
Molded Plastics Market
http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/molded-plastics-market.html
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In a highly fragmented global molded plastics market, in 2015, the top 10 companies held only 40% of the overall market. Some of these are companies are Chevron Philips Chemical Company LLC, Eastman Chemical Company, SABIC, BASF SE, and LyondellBasell Industries N.V. Top companies in this market have established high brand equity due to a long presence in this market, notes a study by Transparency Market Research. This factor, along with the technical expertise of key companies makes it difficult for new and small companies to compete with them.Focus on renewable raw materials to manufacture plastics for packaging industries is one of the key strategies that key players in this market have adopted, says the author of this study. Strengthening global presence by targeting emerging markets with high growth potential has also been adopted to accelerate growth. A case in point is BASF SE. In October 2015, the company established an engineered plastics compounding unit in South Korea and have plans to expand its existing engineered plastics compound capacities in Germany by the end of 2017. The global molded plastics marketwas pegged at US$124.8 bn in 2015 and is expected to be worth US$202.2 bn by 2024 at a CAGR of 5.6% therein. The market is expected to display a CAGR of 4.3% between 2016 and 2024 in terms of volume.Obtain Report Details @:Declining Crude Oil Prices Positively Influencing Molded Plastics MarketIn the present scenario, declining crude oil prices have positively impacted the petrochemical industry. The drop in oil prices has improved the profit margins of several petrochemical companies considerably, says analyst at TMR. Hence, the growth of the petrochemical industry is expected to positively impact the molded plastics market.The flourishing building and construction sector is also fuelling the growth of the molded plastics market, says TMR. With continued investments from government and private developers for infrastructural development and real estate projects, the construction industry has reached new heights.On the flip side, environmental hazards associated with the use of molded plastics, economic instability and political unrest in several countries predominantly in the Middle East, and unpredictable demand in the Middle East and Europe are expected to challenge the growth of the molded plastics market during the forecast period.Make an Enquiry @The Middle East and Africa to Display Fast Growth in FutureIn terms of material type, polypropylene displays the highest demand accounting for its dominance in the molded plastics market. In 2016, the segment held 41% share in the global market. However, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is expected to display the highest CAGR of 8.6% between 2016 and 2024. On the basis of technology, in 2015, injection molding led the molded plastics market and the technology segment is expected to increase two times by 2024. Blow molding, on the other hand, is evolving rapidly with an impressive growth rate.In terms of application, packaging is expected to be leading consumer of molded plastics until the end of the forecast period in 2024. Packaging is expected to generate the highest revenue until 2024. The construction sector contributes a significant revenue to the overall molded plastics market. Geography-wise, while currently, Asia Pacific contributes the highest revenue to the global market, the Middle East and Africa is expected to display growth at a fast pace.About Us:-Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insights for decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.TMRs data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, TMR employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.Contact Us:-Transparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:Visit Blog:
Global Industrial Ethernet Market 2017 - Belden, Siemens, Moxa, Phoenix Contact , Red Lion Controls, Cisco
Industrial Ethernet
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http://www.bigmarketresearch.com/global-industrial-ethernet-by-manufacturers-regions-type-and-application-forecast-to-2021-market
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Industrial Ethernet is Industrial Ethernet is the use of Ethernet in an industrial environment with protocols that provide determinism and real-time control. Protocols for Industrial Ethernet include Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP/IP, POWERLINK, Other. Industrial Ethernet are composed of Transmission media converter module, Hubs, Switches and Routers, etc.Do Enquiry About Sample Report @Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Industrial Ethernet in Global market, especially in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa. This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, regions, type and application.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers Belden Siemens Moxa Phoenix Contact Red Lion Controls Cisco Schneider Electric Rockwell Automation Beckhoff automation Westermo Kyland WAGO Corporation Advantech TranscendBrowse complete report @Market Segment by Regions, regional analysis covers North America (USA, Canada and Mexico) Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) South America, Middle East and AfricaMarket Segment by Type, covers Ethernet/IP PROFINET EtherCAT Modbus TCP/IP POWERLINK OtherMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided into Electric power Transportation Oil & Gas OthersRequest For Discount @There are 13 Chapters to deeply display the global Industrial Ethernet market.Chapter 1, to describe Industrial Ethernet Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Industrial Ethernet, with sales, revenue, and price of Industrial Ethernet, in 2015 and 2016;Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2015 and 2016;Chapter 4, to show the global market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Industrial Ethernet, for each region, from 2011 to 2016;Chapter 5, 6, 7 and 8, to analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions;Chapter 9 and 10, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2011 to 2016;Chapter 11, Industrial Ethernet market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2016 to 2021;Chapter 12 and 13, to describe Industrial Ethernet sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, appendix and data source.About US:With the arsenal of different search reports, we help you here to look and buy research reports that will be helpful to you and your organization. Our research reports have the capability and authenticity to support your organization for growth and consistency.Contact US:Dhananjay Potle5933 NE Win Sivers Drive,#205, Portland, OR 97220United StatesDirect :+ 1-503-894-6022Toll Free : + 1-800-910-6452Email: help@bigmarketresearch.comWeb:
Global Collaborative Robot Market Is Expected To Be Worth US$95.0 Bn By The End Of 2024 At A CAGR Of 30.0%
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Collaborative Robot Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024" to its huge collection of research reports.This report offers strategic analysis of the global collaborative robot market, and the market growth forecast for the period 2016 to 2024. The scope of the report contains competitive analysis of various market segments based on the payloads, application and industries of the collaborative robot market across different geographic segments.Collaborative robots are designed to help human beings as a guide in specific tasks. In general robots are designed and programmed to operate autonomously wherein collaborative robots operate simultaneously with humans. Lightweight of the collaborative robots is one of the important factor due to which growth of collaborative robotic market is likely to increase. Collaborative robots are the type of industrial robots that are grabbing more demand due to their collaborative nature with human and allows human to work side by side with these robots safely. Collaborative robots are light in weight, easy to assemble and can work side by side with human without hampering the safety of the human. These robots are flexible in nature that allows to handle repetitive and short run tasks along with ergonomically difficult tasks. Due to the nature of these robots, they are used in home labs, offices, farms, hospitals, warehouses, thereby allowing the robots to help in carrying out the job in a better way.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Global Collaborative Robot Market: Drivers and TrendsWith the increasing numbers of manufacturing sectors the demand of robotics is escalating. Since collaborative robots are the lightweight and flexible robots that work side by side with human safely, increases the demand of collaborative robots in manufacturing industries especially SME (Small Manufacturing Enterprise). This robotic technology is likely to optimize to support responsive production methodologies. Operators can swiftly program robotic movements based on logical process steps and using intuitive tools, with no programming experience.Global Collaborative Robot Market: SegmentationThe collaborative robot market is bifurcated based on payload into up to 5 Kg, 6 10 Kg and above 10 Kg. Among these segments 6 10 Kg accounted for the highest revenue share during the forecast period. They are used in operating heavier tasks that weigh up 10 Kg like palletizing, packaging, pick and place and assembling. This type of robots helps in saving time on production lines where distance is a factor. Moreover, on the basis of application, the collaborative robot market is segmented into packaging, material handling, quality testing, assembling, machine tending, welding and others. Material handling segment accounted for the highest market share in the global collaborative robot market. These robots helps in controlling and storing of materials in distribution centers, warehouses and also used for disposal. On the basis of industries the market is bifurcated into automotive, food and beverage, aerospace, plastic and polymers, metals and machining and others.Global Collaborative Robot Market: Regional OutlookTo support in strategic decision making, the report also embraces competitive profiling of leading players in the industry, their market share in different regions of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America. Asia Pacific held the highest market of collaborative robot globally. Presence of numerous number of industries and need for automation is driving the demand of Collaborative Robot market in Asia Pacific region. Additionally, several business strategies adopted by key players has also been deliberated in the report. The market attractiveness analysis is included in the report provide understanding into industry competition and market dynamics.The report also provides breakdown and review of several factors affecting the market growth, which are appropriately defined as market drivers, restraints, and opportunities. These causes regulate innumerable existing trends and their effect on market growth. In all, the report includes a complete analysis of the global collaborative robot market, and provides an estimation of progress for the period 2015 to 2024, considering the various factors affecting the market.The market has been segmented as follows:Collaborative Robot Market, by Payloads:- Up to 5 Kg- 6 -10 Kg- Above 10 KgCollaborative Robot Market, by Application:- Packaging- Material Handling- Quality testing- Assembly- Machine Tending- Welding- OthersCollaborative Robot Market, by Industry:- Automotive- Food and beverage- Aerospace- Plastic and Polymers- Metals and Machining- OthersCollaborative Robot Market, by Geography- North America- U.S.- Canada- Rest of North America- Europe- U.K.- Germany- France- Italy- Rest of Europe- Asia Pacific- India- China- Japan- Rest of Asia Pacific- Middle East & Africa- Saudi Arabia- Rest of Middle East and Africa- Latin America- Brazil- Rest of Latin AmericaMake an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Global Medical Tourism Market Scenario, Leading Players, Segments Analysis and Growth Drivers to 2022
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Market OverviewMedical Tourist Industry is dynamic and volatile in nature. The range of factors including the political instability, travel restrictions, advertising practices, economic climate, domestic policy changes, geo-political shifts, innovative and pioneering forms of treatment has contributed towards the shift in patterns of consumption and production of domestic and overseas health services. The reason for the shift is are the relatively low-cost of treatments in less developed nations, the availability of inexpensive flights and increased marketing and online consumer information about the availability of medical services.Request a Sample Copy of Report @Major Key Players: Bangkok Hospital (Bangkok), Schoen-Kliniken (Germany), Bumrungrad International Hospital (Bangkok), Clemenceau, Christus Muguerza, Fortis Healthcare (India) Parkway Pantai Limited (Singapore), Prince Court Medical Centre (Malaysia), Shouldice Hospital (Canada)Browse Report Details @Segmentation:Global Medical Tourism Market has been segmented on the basis of treatment which consists of cosmetic surgery, dentistry, cardiology/cardiac surgery, orthopedic surgery, bariatric surgery, fertility/reproductive system, organ and tissue transplantation, eye surgery and others. On the basis of region; market is segmented into Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa.Access the market data and market information presented through more than 60 market data tables and 25 figures spread over 80 numbers of pages of the project report Global Medical Tourism Market Research Report - Forecast to 2022Intended Audience Research and Development (R&D) Companies Market Research and Consulting Service Providers Medical device manufacturers Medical device suppliers Private Research LaboratoriesBrowse Related Report:Global Cancer Diagnostics Market Information- by Type (Biopsy Based, Endoscopy Based, Imaging Procedure, Tumor Biomarkers), Application (Lung Cancer, Breast Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Leukemia, Melanoma), End User (Diagnostic Center, Clinic, Hospital, Research Institutes) - Forecast to 2022About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.ContactAkash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Global Surgical Clips Market Research Report 2017
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This report studies Surgical Clips in Global market, especially in North America, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia and India, focuses on top manufacturers in global market, with capacity, production, price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer, coveringMedtronicB.BraunLeMaitre VascularMaxer EndoscopyKLS MartinLawton GmbH & Co.KGBoston ScientificScanlan InternationalEdwards LifesciencesBMC-PRIMATeleflex MedicalRoboz Surgical InstrumentLandangerHu-friedyMedisporexTowne BrothersYDMShanghai Medical InstrumentsTo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Market Segment by Regions, this report splits Global into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue, market share and growth rate of Surgical Clips in these regions, from 2011 to 2021 (forecast), likeNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaSplit by product type, with production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, can be divided intoTantalumStainless SteelTitaniumOtherSplit by application, this report focuses on consumption, market share and growth rate of Surgical Clips in each application, can be divided intoClinicsHospitalsOthersBrowse Complete Report with TOC @Table of ContentsGlobal Surgical Clips Market Research Report 20171 Surgical Clips Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Surgical Clips1.2 Surgical Clips Segment by Type1.2.1 Global Production Market Share of Surgical Clips by Type in 20151.2.2 Tantalum1.2.3 Stainless Steel1.2.4 Titanium1.2.5 Other1.3 Surgical Clips Segment by Application1.3.1 Surgical Clips Consumption Market Share by Application in 20151.3.2 Clinics1.3.3 Hospitals1.3.4 Others1.4 Surgical Clips Market by Region1.4.1 North America Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.2 Europe Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.3 China Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.4 Japan Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.5 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.6 India Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Surgical Clips (2011-2021)2 Global Surgical Clips Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Surgical Clips Production and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.2 Global Surgical Clips Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.3 Global Surgical Clips Average Price by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.4 Manufacturers Surgical Clips Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Surgical Clips Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Surgical Clips Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Surgical Clips Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion3 Global Surgical Clips Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2011-2016)3.1 Global Surgical Clips Production by Region (2011-2016)3.2 Global Surgical Clips Production Market Share by Region (2011-2016)3.3 Global Surgical Clips Revenue (Value) and Market Share by Region (2011-2016)3.4 Global Surgical Clips Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.5 North America Surgical Clips Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.6 Europe Surgical Clips Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.7 China Surgical Clips Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.8 Japan Surgical Clips Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.9 Southeast Asia Surgical Clips Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.10 India Surgical Clips Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)4 Global Surgical Clips Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016)4.1 Global Surgical Clips Consumption by Regions (2011-2016)4.2 North America Surgical Clips Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.3 Europe Surgical Clips Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.4 China Surgical Clips Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.5 Japan Surgical Clips Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.6 Southeast Asia Surgical Clips Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.7 India Surgical Clips Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)5 Global Surgical Clips Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type5.1 Global Surgical Clips Production and Market Share by Type (2011-2016)5.2 Global Surgical Clips Revenue and Market Share by Type (2011-2016)5.3 Global Surgical Clips Price by Type (2011-2016)5.4 Global Surgical Clips Production Growth by Type (2011-2016)6 Global Surgical Clips Market Analysis by Application6.1 Global Surgical Clips Consumption and Market Share by Application (2011-2016)6.2 Global Surgical Clips Consumption Growth Rate by Application (2011-2016)6.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities6.3.1 Potential Applications6.3.2 Emerging Markets/CountriesQYResearchReports.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.QYResearchreportsContact Us1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United States+1-518-621-2074866-997-4948USA-Canada Toll freesales@qyresearchreports.com
MASON CITY | A "Day Without a Woman" rally is 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 8, in Central Park.
Two community activists, Tahmyrah Lytle, head of "Where Do We Go From Here" in Mason City and Edith Haenel, head of Worth County Progressives, are putting on the rally.
They have taken part in other recent demonstrations in Mason City and North Iowa. Lytle leads weekly discussion groups on Thursday nights at First Congregational United Church of Christ.
They are asking women to rally against bigotry and sexism in government, asserting that women's rights are human rights.
Global Chemotherapy Devices Market Research Report 2017
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Qyresearchreports include new market research report "Chemotherapy Devices" to its huge collection of research reports.This research report accounts for all the most recent and relevant dynamics of the Chemotherapy Devices to create an all-encompassing database for users of all types. An important part within the given dynamics of the market is the information surrounding the profiles of all leading players and the relative competitive landscape of the market, as it is very likely for these key players to have their fair share of influence over it. Additional dynamics of the Chemotherapy Devices as mentioned in the report include its key drivers, restraints, and opportunities that have already affected a majority of the players in it, along with the ones that are likely to continue impacting the market over the given forecast period.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @To fully elaborate the competitive landscape of the market, a SWOT analysis is penned out in a manner fit for players of all caliber. This allows for a clearer projection for the market for the foreseeable years. Other aspects analyzed in the report, in terms of the individual player profiles, are their financial profiles and their current planning and market strategies that have so far been visible.The Chemotherapy Devices is further analyzed on the basis of its supply and demand chains, which is a part of the passage that employs past analytics and current information pertaining to usage and production capacities. This section of the report additionally includes product descriptions and cost structures of the market. The report also presents a descriptive analysis of the market in order to calculate its characteristic traits in upstream and downstream demand cycles for raw materials, imports, and exports.Browse Complete Report with TOC @Table of Contents1 Chemotherapy Devices Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Chemotherapy Devices1.2 Chemotherapy Devices Segment by Type1.2.1 Global Production Market Share of Chemotherapy Devices by Type in 20151.2.2 Verticle type1.2.3 Horizontal type1.3 Chemotherapy Devices Segment by Application1.3.1 Chemotherapy Devices Consumption Market Share by Application in 20151.3.2 Hospital1.3.3 Chemotherapy center1.3.4 Application 31.4 Chemotherapy Devices Market by Region1.4.1 North America Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.2 Europe Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.3 China Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.4 Japan Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.5 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.4.6 India Status and Prospect (2011-2021)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Chemotherapy Devices (2011-2021)2 Global Chemotherapy Devices Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Chemotherapy Devices Production and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.2 Global Chemotherapy Devices Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.3 Global Chemotherapy Devices Average Price by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.4 Manufacturers Chemotherapy Devices Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Chemotherapy Devices Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Chemotherapy Devices Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Chemotherapy Devices Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion3 Global Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2011-2016)3.1 Global Chemotherapy Devices Production by Region (2011-2016)3.2 Global Chemotherapy Devices Production Market Share by Region (2011-2016)3.3 Global Chemotherapy Devices Revenue (Value) and Market Share by Region (2011-2016)3.4 Global Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.5 North America Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.6 Europe Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.7 China Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.8 Japan Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.9 Southeast Asia Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)3.10 India Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)4 Global Chemotherapy Devices Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016)4.1 Global Chemotherapy Devices Consumption by Regions (2011-2016)4.2 North America Chemotherapy Devices Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.3 Europe Chemotherapy Devices Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.4 China Chemotherapy Devices Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.5 Japan Chemotherapy Devices Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.6 Southeast Asia Chemotherapy Devices Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)4.7 India Chemotherapy Devices Production, Consumption, Export, Import (2011-2016)5 Global Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type5.1 Global Chemotherapy Devices Production and Market Share by Type (2011-2016)5.2 Global Chemotherapy Devices Revenue and Market Share by Type (2011-2016)5.3 Global Chemotherapy Devices Price by Type (2011-2016)5.4 Global Chemotherapy Devices Production Growth by Type (2011-2016)6 Global Chemotherapy Devices Market Analysis by Application6.1 Global Chemotherapy Devices Consumption and Market Share by Application (2011-2016)6.2 Global Chemotherapy Devices Consumption Growth Rate by Application (2011-2016)6.3 Market Drivers and Opportunities6.3.1 Potential Applications6.3.2 Emerging Markets/Countries7 Global Chemotherapy Devices Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 PYREXAR7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Its Competitors7.1.2 Chemotherapy Devices Product Type, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Verticle type7.1.2.2 Horizontal type7.1.3 PYREXAR Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2015 and 2016)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Gamidatech7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Its Competitors7.2.2 Chemotherapy Devices Product Type, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Verticle type7.2.2.2 Horizontal type7.2.3 Gamidatech Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2015 and 2016)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 MEDICA7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Its Competitors7.3.2 Chemotherapy Devices Product Type, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Verticle type7.3.2.2 Horizontal type7.3.3 MEDICA Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2015 and 2016)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Sante Actions7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Its Competitors7.4.2 Chemotherapy Devices Product Type, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Verticle type7.4.2.2 Horizontal type7.4.3 Sante Actions Chemotherapy Devices Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2015 and 2016)7.4.4 Main Business/Business OverviewFor Market Research Latest Reports Visit @About UsQYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.Contact Us1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Web:Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com
Aircraft Tire Market is Expected to Grow at a CAGR of 4.5% by 2022
Aircraft Tire Market
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Market research future published a half cooked research report on global aircraft tire market. The aircraft tire market is expected to grow over the CAGR of around 4.5% during the period 2016 to 2022.Market Highlights:Aircraft tires are generally used in the performance of the aircraft. They are produced with different kind of materials such as steel, nylon cord, artificial and natural rubber and others. The strength of the tire is provided by casing plies. These are layer of fabric cord which are coated with hi-modulus rubber on both the side. There are different aircraft tire manufacturers who provides tire to civil and military segments so as to serve air force and naval force. The major factors which are responsible for the growth of aircraft tires market are increasing demand of aircraft, increase safety, frequent replacement of tires, demand for advance and new airlines and rise in traffic due to increasing passenger. Due to network expansion and fuel efficient aircraft, there is an increasing demand for aircraft.Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth during the forecasted period due to increasing demand of commercial airlines in these region and increasing government spending for infrastructure development, liberalization and GDP growth. The rising air traffic in Asia-Pacific results in the growth of these region. Various critical factors which has resulted in the growth of these region are adopting wide-bodied aircrafts, rising passenger traffic, growing demand for aircraft that are fuel efficient.Request a Sample Copy @Key Players of Aircraft Tire Market: Aviation Tires & Treads LLC Bridgestone Corporation Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin Sca Desser Tire & Rubber Co. LLC Dunlop Aircraft Tyres Ltd. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Petlas Tire Corporation Qingdao Sentury Tire Co., Ltd. Specialty Tires of America Wilkerson Company, Inc. (Wco)Market Research Analysis:The market is highly based on application. Commercial segment based on application has dominated the aircraft tires market because of the requirement from the commercial aircraft manufacturer to improve the operation of the aircraft efficiency. This can be done by overall reducing the weight of the tires. There is the need for more aircraft in the commercial sector due to rise in air traffic and increasing need for connectivity among destination.The factors that are contributing towards the growth of aircraft tires market are increasing demand of aircraft, increase safety, frequent replacement of tires, demand for advance and new airlines and rise in traffic due to increasing passenger.Scope of the Report:This study provides an overview of the global aircraft tires market, tracking three market segments across four geographic regions. The report studies key players, providing a five-year annual trend analysis that highlights market size, volume and share for North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC) and Rest of the World (ROW). The report also provides a forecast, focusing on the market opportunities for the next five years for each region. The scope of the study segments the global aircraft tires market by its product type, application and region.By Product Type Radial BiasBy Application Commercial DefenseBy Region North America Europe Asia-Pacific ROWBrief TOC for Aircraft Tire Market:1 Executive Summary2 Research Methodology2.1 Scope of the Study2.1.1 Definition2.1.2 Research Objective2.1.3 Assumptions2.1.4 Limitations2.2 Research Process2.2.1 Primary Research2.2.2 Secondary Research2.3 Market size Estimation2.4 Forecast Model3 Market Dynamics3.1 Market Drivers3.2 Market Inhibitors3.3 Supply/Value Chain Analysis3.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis4 Global Aircraft Tire Market, By Product Type4.1 Radial4.2 Bias5 Global Aircraft Tire Market, By Application5.1 Introduction5.2 Commercial5.3 DefenseContinueBrowse Full Report @Intended Audience: Aircraft tire manufacturers Distributer & Supplier companies End Users Consultants and Investment bankers Government as well as Independent Regulatory AuthoritiesAbout Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Akash AnandMarket Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Global Slip Ring Market- LTN, Pandect Precision, Mercotac, DSTI, BGB and Molex
Slip Ring
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This report studies sales (consumption) of Slip Ring in Global market, especially in North America, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia and India, focuses on top players in these regions/countries, with sales, price, revenue and market share for each player in these regions, coveringLTNPandect PrecisionMercotacDSTIBGBMolexUEAThe market research report by QY Research provides detailed study on the overall Slip Ring market size, its financial positions, its unique selling points, key products, and key developments. This research report has segmented the Slip Ring market based on the segments covering all the domains in terms of type, country, region, forecasting revenues, and market share, along with analysis of latest trends in every sub-segment.Click Here to Request Sample Report @The qualitative segmentation of Slip Ring market covered in the report gives in-depth information of the overall market. Furthermore, the market size, share, forecast trends, analysis, sales, supply, production, demand, major manufacturers, end-users, and many other vital factors are comprised in the Market Research Slip Ring report by QY Research. By these comprehensive data, it is simple to take and make precise and accurate decisions taking into consideration the present market situation and the forecasts of the global market, which in turn may result into profitable step for our clients.A competitive landscape that identifies the major competitors of the global market and their market share are further highlighted in the research report. A deliberate profiling of major competitors of the Slip Ring market as well as a inclusive analysis of their current developments, core competencies, and investments in each segment are also elaborated in the research report.Browse Complete Report with TOC @The overall information of the Slip Ring market provided in the report helps our client to make precise and accurate decisions in order to gain maximum profit in this cutthroat competition in the global market. The report comprises various elements such as table, figure, charts, TOCs, chapters, and so on so as to provide a crystal clear data to the client giving a brief of the market and its trends. Thus, the report provides in-depth information of the Slip Ring market in terms of revenue, value, volume, region, and many more.About Us:QYResearch Group is a single destination for all the industry, company and country reports. QYResearch Group also carries the capability to assist you with your customized market research requirements including in-depth market surveys, primary interviews, competitive landscaping, and company profiles. We feature large repository of latest industry reports, leading and niche company profiles, and market statistics. QYResearch Group is the comprehensive collection of market intelligence products and services available on air.Contact US:Joel John3422 SW 15 Street, Suit #8138,Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442,United StatesTel: +1-386-310-3803GMT Tel: +49-322 210 92714USA/Canada Toll Free No. 1-855-465-4651
Global 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size, Status, Technology Advancement, Industry Analysis And Forecast 2022: Direct Data Transmission, Indirect Data Transmission, Guaranteed Time Slot (GTS) Data Transmission
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This report studies the global 802.15.4/ZigBee market, analyzes and researches the 802.15.4/ZigBee development status and forecast in United States, EU, Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia. This report focuses on the top players in global market, likeDigi InternationalTexas Instruments IncorporatedAnarenAtmelCalifornia Eastern LaboratoriesDresden ElektronikNivisRadiosTelegesisMarket segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEUJapanChinaIndiaSoutheast AsiaMarket segment by Type, 802.15.4/ZigBee can be split intoDirect Data TransmissionIndirect Data TransmissionGuaranteed Time Slot (GTS) Data TransmissionMarket segment by Application, 802.15.4/ZigBee can be split intoIndustryAgricultureCars and CarsResidentialHealth CareOtherGet Sample Copy Of this Report:Table of ContentsGlobal 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size, Status and Forecast 20221 Industry Overview of 802.15.4/ZigBee1.1 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Overview1.1.1 802.15.4/ZigBee Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size and Analysis by Regions1.2.1 United States1.2.2 EU1.2.3 Japan1.2.4 China1.2.5 India1.2.6 Southeast Asia1.3 802.15.4/ZigBee Market by Type1.3.1 Direct Data Transmission1.3.2 Indirect Data Transmission1.3.3 Guaranteed Time Slot (GTS) Data Transmission1.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Market by End Users/Application1.4.1 Industry1.4.2 Agriculture1.4.3 Cars and Cars1.4.4 Residential1.4.5 Health Care1.4.6 Other2 Global 802.15.4/ZigBee Competition Analysis by Players2.1 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size (Value) by Players (2016 and 2017)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in FutureBrowse More ICT Market research Reports:3 Company (Top Players) Profiles3.1 Digi International3.1.1 Company Profile3.1.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.1.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.1.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.1.5 Recent Developments3.2 Texas Instruments Incorporated3.2.1 Company Profile3.2.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.2.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.2.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.2.5 Recent Developments3.3 Anaren3.3.1 Company Profile3.3.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.3.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.3.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.3.5 Recent Developments3.4 Atmel3.4.1 Company Profile3.4.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.4.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.4.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.4.5 Recent Developments3.5 California Eastern Laboratories3.5.1 Company Profile3.5.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.5.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.5.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.5.5 Recent Developments3.6 Dresden Elektronik3.6.1 Company Profile3.6.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.6.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.6.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.6.5 Recent Developments3.7 Nivis3.7.1 Company Profile3.7.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.7.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.7.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.7.5 Recent Developments3.8 Radios3.8.1 Company Profile3.8.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.8.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.8.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.8.5 Recent Developments3.9 Telegesis3.9.1 Company Profile3.9.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.9.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.9.4 802.15.4/ZigBee Revenue (Value) (2012-2017)3.9.5 Recent Developments4 Global 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size by Type and Application (2012-2017)4.1 Global 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size by Type (2012-2017)4.2 Global 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size by Application (2012-2017)4.3 Potential Application of 802.15.4/ZigBee in Future4.4 Top Consumer/End Users of 802.15.4/ZigBee5 United States 802.15.4/ZigBee Development Status and Outlook5.1 United States 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size (2012-2017)5.2 United States 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)6 EU 802.15.4/ZigBee Development Status and Outlook6.1 EU 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size (2012-2017)6.2 EU 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)7 Japan 802.15.4/ZigBee Development Status and Outlook7.1 Japan 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size (2012-2017)7.2 Japan 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)8 China 802.15.4/ZigBee Development Status and Outlook8.1 China 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size (2012-2017)8.2 China 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)9 India 802.15.4/ZigBee Development Status and Outlook9.1 India 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size (2012-2017)9.2 India 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)10 Southeast Asia 802.15.4/ZigBee Development Status and Outlook10.1 Southeast Asia 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size (2012-2017)10.2 Southeast Asia 802.15.4/ZigBee Market Size and Market Share by Players (2016 and 2017)MarketResearchReports.biz supports your business intelligence needs with over 100,000 market research reports, company profiles, data books, and regional market data sheets in its repository. Our document database is updated by the hour, which means that you always have access to fresh data spanning over 300 industries and their sub-segments.State Tower90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948(USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
New Car Canada Offers Fast and Guaranteed Auto Loans to Anyone Looking to Buy a New Vehicle in Brampton
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Those looking to buy a new vehicle in Brampton can now get approved instantly for an auto loan option of up to $40,000, without making any down payment. New Car Canada - Brampton accommodates all applicants even those with a few red flags on their credit. They are willing to finance any type of vehicle you are looking for, be it is an SUV, Minivan, Pickup Truck, etc. Their rates are very affordable even to to applicants who can only qualify for a sub prime loan. New Car Canada specializes in bad credit car financing to help everyone acquire the car that they need, regardless of their credit situation.Guaranteed 24-hour ApprovalNew Car Canada prides itself in providing the fasted auto loan approval process in Brampton. Any person can get approved just 24 hours after application. Simply fill out their 1-minute online application form and comply with their very simple requirements. Their application process is totally free of charge; you are ensured that there are no hidden fees or any added requirements involved.What You Need to ApplyAvail yourself of New Car Canadas auto finance services by meeting the following requirements - a valid drivers license, a regular job with a salary of at least $1,800 per month, and an ability to acquire a vehicular insurance coverage.New Car Canada - Brampton offers a no down payment option on all of their vehicles even to applicants with poor credit. With that, anyone can easily get the car that theyve always wanted without paying any money down. Click here to learn more about their financing services.New Car Canada - BramptonBrampton is one of the suburban cities that make up the Greater Toronto Area, ranking 9th in Canadas most populous municipality. The city is also referred to as Flower City due to its notable greenhouse industry. Its economy is mainly anchored in manufacturing, business, retail and communication technology. One of Chryslers Assembly Plant happens to be one of the major employers here. The city of Brampton also boasts of various art galleries, museums, theatres and recreational parks which is an embodiment of its progressive economy and rich culture.Bramptons transportation is serviced mainly by Brampton Transit and GO Transit which connects to other cities and communities inside the GTA. Even with a dependable public transportation service, going in and out of Brampton is more convenient and much faster if you have your own ride. Buying your own vehicle need not be a struggle especially if you are working with a reliable dealer such as New Car Canada - Brampton. Their rates are reasonable and any applicant is guaranteed an instant approval. Dont let terrible credit stop you from becoming a car owner, spare a few minutes to check out their financing offers today -Brampton is one of the suburban cities that make up the Greater Toronto Area, ranking 9th in Canadas most populous municipality. The city is also referred to as Flower City due to its notable greenhouse industry. Its economy is mainly anchored in manufacturing, business, retail and communication technology. One of Chryslers Assembly Plant happens to be one of the major employers here. The city of Brampton also boasts of various art galleries, museums, theatres and recreational parks which is an embodiment of its progressive economy and rich culture.Bad Credit Car Loans Brampton31 Neville Crescent,Brampton, OntarioL6S 5L5(855) 686-7494
Monterey Peninsula Surgery Centers Launches Minimus Institute
http://minimusinstitute.com/procedures/
http://minimusinstitute.com/
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MPSC extends its quality outpatient care nationally with Minimus Institute, a national referral center offering patient-focused surgical care in a concierge settingMonterey, CA, March 03, 2017 Monterey Peninsula Surgery Centers (MPSC), a highly respected surgical care provider and the largest locally-owned outpatient surgery organization in California, performs nearly 17,000 surgical procedures in 13 specialties annually. Every day more than 70 individuals and their families trust MPSC for their surgical care. MPSC's esteemed team of surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses and patient service providers have been delivering extraordinary care to the communities of Monterey, Salinas and Santa Cruz for over 35 years.MPSC and its surgeons are recognized leaders in outpatient surgical care as measured by the high demand for its services, extremely low infection rates, 99% patient-satisfaction scores and affordable, transparent pricing. If MPSC was a hospital, it would rank No. 4 in the state in the number of outpatient surgeries performed annually.Although the majority of MPSCs patients reside in Northern and Central California, in the last five years, MPSC has attracted patients from 47 states and 10 countries seeking the most advanced surgical care.Now, through Minimus Institute, which launched November 2016, MPSC is extending its services to patients living outside the Monterey, Santa Cruz and Salinas areas. Through Minimus Institute, MPSC will meet the unique pre and post-operative needs of patients traveling for surgery, including facilitating the surgeon-patient relationship, arranging physician consultations and booking travel accommodations, to ensure patients receive a stress-free experience. Since its launch last year, Minimus Institute has served patients from Oregon, Alaska and throughout California.Minimus is a national surgery referral center that offers access to world-class surgeons and arms patients with real-time data on outcomes, infection rates, patient satisfaction scores and transparent pricing, all in a concierge setting. Minimus Institute strives to empower patients to make the most informed decisions about their care and guide them through their surgical experience.Minimus Institute will begin with spinal surgery, but will expand to include orthopedic surgery, general surgery, gynecologic surgery and many other specialties.Patients can visit our website at MinimusInstitute.com to view up-front, all-inclusive pricing, patient satisfaction scores and infection rates to help them make an informed decision regarding their surgery options," said Thomas D. Wilson, Managing Partner and CEO of MPSC and Minimus Institute. Minimus provides patients an outstanding surgical experience with great value as measured by an optimum combination of quality, service and price. Because surgery is all we do, our hallmarks are efficiency, clarity and excellence. Our goal is to deliver surgery a better way. We strive to be pioneers in arming our patients with knowledge and we want to enable patients to make well-informed decisions.By leveraging the organizations high-quality care and excellent patient experience with transparent pricing and outcomes, Minimus seeks to demystify the patient/surgery/doctor interaction.Minimus' prime objective is to become recognized as a national destination surgery center or beacon for patients, insurance companies and self-insured groups seeking the most advanced and least invasive outpatient surgery in a setting featuring transparency, value and great outcomes. Patients can also access up-front, all-inclusive surgical pricing atAbout Minimus Institute:Minimus Institute is a national state-of-the-art surgical institute located in a beautiful setting on California's Central Coast, providing patients access to world-class surgeons and exceptional value. Offering transparent pricing and clear, comprehensive outcome information and patient-satisfaction scores, Minimus demystifies the surgical-care experience allowing patients to make the most informed decisions about their care. To learn more go toAbout Monterey Peninsula Surgery Centers (MPSC):MPSC and its surgeons are recognized leaders in outpatient surgical care as measured by the high demand for its services, extremely low infection rates, 99% patient satisfaction scores and affordable, transparent pricing. It is known for performing complex surgery, including total joint replacements, major spine surgeries, hysterectomies, breast reconstruction and thyroidectomies in the outpatient setting. In excess of 31,500 surgical procedures across 13 specialties are performed annually at MPSC by its 190 physicians on staff.Contact:Marci Bracco CainChatterbox PRSalinas, CA 93901(831) 747-7455
Fish Processing Market 2017 - Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL, Marine Harvest ASA, Pescanova S.A., Royal Greenland A/S, Leroy Seafood Group ASA, Norway Pelagic ASA
Fish Processing Market
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A market study based on the "Fish Processing Market" across the globe, recently added to the repository of Market Research, is titled Global Fish Processing Market 2017. The research report analyses the historical as well as present performance of the worldwide Fish Processing industry, and makes predictions on the future status of Fish Processing market on the basis of this analysis.Get Free Sample Copy of Report Here :Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This ReportCharoen Pokphand Foods PCLMaruha Nichiro Corporation (Japan)Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd. (Japan)Marine Harvest ASAThai Union Frozen Products PLCPescanova S.A.High Liner Foods IncorporatedRoyal Greenland A/SLeroy Seafood Group ASANorway Pelagic ASAThe report studies the industry for Fish Processing across the globe taking the existing industry chain, the import and export statistics in Fish Processing market & dynamics of demand and supply of Fish Processing into consideration. The 'Fish Processing' research study covers each and every aspect of the Fish Processing market globally, which starts from the definition of the Fish Processing industry and develops towards Fish Processing market segmentations. Further, every segment of the Fish Processing market is classified and analyzed on the basis of product types, application, and the end-use industries of the Fish Processing market. The geographical segmentation of the Fish Processing industry has also been covered at length in this report.The competitive landscape of the worldwide market for Fish Processing is determined by evaluating the various industry participants, production capacity, Fish Processing market's production chain, and the revenue generated by each manufacturer in the Fish Processing market worldwide.Enquire Here :The global Fish Processing market 2017 is also analyzed on the basis of product pricing, Fish Processing production volume, data regarding demand and Fish Processing supply, and the revenue garnered by the product. Various methodical tools such as investment returns, feasibility, and market attractiveness analysis has been used in the research to present a comprehensive study of the industry for Fish Processing across the globe.About UsApexResearch offer reports from top publishers and update to serve you with immediate on-line access to professional insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends. Customers can buys different reports across various categories such as Chemical and Material, Biotechnology, Healthcare, Food and beverages, Automobile and various sectors. Our Website offers safe and secure online ordering experience, convenient payment options.Contact UsFrank ValadezBusiness Development Executive| sales@apexresearch.biz
Global Security Information And Event Management Market to grow at a CAGR of 12.03% during 2017-2021
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About Security Information And Event ManagementSIEM includes solutions and services that help enterprises to analyze log (large volumes of computer generated data also known as audit records and audit trials) and event data in real time to identity potential threats and provide event correlation and incident response. The data is collected from security and network devices, systems, and applications. The data is collected in a central repository for interpretation of logs and trend analysis and provides automated reporting for compliance and centralized reporting. SIEM solutions provide quicker identification, analysis, and recovery of security events. The events are alerts generated by a network security device such as a firewall or intrusion detection system (IDS).Technavios analysts forecast the global security information and event management to grow at a CAGR of 12.03% during the period 2017-2021.Covered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global security information and event management for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the revenue generated from the sales of SIEM solutions and services.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:APACEuropeNorth AmericaMEATechnavio's report, Global Security Information And Event Management 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Download Sample Copy of Report atKey vendorsIBMHewlett PackardMcAfeeLogRhythmSplunkOther prominent vendorsAlienVaultBlackStratusEventTrackerDell TechnologiesFortinetMicro FocusSolarWindsSymantecTenable Network SecurityTIBCO SoftwareTrustwaveZOHO CorpMarket driverNeed to comply with regulatory requirements.For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challengeSecurity risks associated with SaaS offerings.For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trendGrowing popularity of managed security service providers.For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this reportWhat will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be?What are the key market trends?What is driving this market?What are the challenges to market growth?Who are the key vendors in this market space?What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?MarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.State Tower90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-621-2074Website:Email: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
Flame Retardant ABS Resin Market 2017 - INEOS, Sinopec, CHIMEI, LG Chem, SABIC, Formosa Chemicals & Fibre, LOTTE ADVANCED MATERIALS
Flame Retardant ABS Resin Market
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A market study based on the "Flame Retardant ABS Resin Market" across the globe, recently added to the repository of Market Research, is titled Global Flame Retardant ABS Resin Market 2017. The research report analyses the historical as well as present performance of the worldwide Flame Retardant ABS Resin industry, and makes predictions on the future status of Flame Retardant ABS Resin market on the basis of this analysis.Get Free Sample Copy of Report Here :Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This ReportCHIMEIFormosa Chemicals & FibreLG ChemSABICLOTTE ADVANCED MATERIALSINEOSSinopecThe report studies the industry for Flame Retardant ABS Resin across the globe taking the existing industry chain, the import and export statistics in Flame Retardant ABS Resin market & dynamics of demand and supply of Flame Retardant ABS Resin into consideration. The 'Flame Retardant ABS Resin' research study covers each and every aspect of the Flame Retardant ABS Resin market globally, which starts from the definition of the Flame Retardant ABS Resin industry and develops towards Flame Retardant ABS Resin market segmentations. Further, every segment of the Flame Retardant ABS Resin market is classified and analyzed on the basis of product types, application, and the end-use industries of the Flame Retardant ABS Resin market. The geographical segmentation of the Flame Retardant ABS Resin industry has also been covered at length in this report.The competitive landscape of the worldwide market for Flame Retardant ABS Resin is determined by evaluating the various industry participants, production capacity, Flame Retardant ABS Resin market's production chain, and the revenue generated by each manufacturer in the Flame Retardant ABS Resin market worldwide.Enquire Here :The global Flame Retardant ABS Resin market 2017 is also analyzed on the basis of product pricing, Flame Retardant ABS Resin production volume, data regarding demand and Flame Retardant ABS Resin supply, and the revenue garnered by the product. Various methodical tools such as investment returns, feasibility, and market attractiveness analysis has been used in the research to present a comprehensive study of the industry for Flame Retardant ABS Resin across the globe.About UsApexResearch offer reports from top publishers and update to serve you with immediate on-line access to professional insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends. Customers can buys different reports across various categories such as Chemical and Material, Biotechnology, Healthcare, Food and beverages, Automobile and various sectors. Our Website offers safe and secure online ordering experience, convenient payment options.Contact UsFrank ValadezBusiness Development Executive| sales@apexresearch.biz
Fluorescein Market 2017 - Thermo fisher, SIGMA-ALDRICH, CHEMOS, Hangzhou DayangChem, Siddhichem, Akorn
Fluorescein Market
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A market study based on the "Fluorescein Market" across the globe, recently added to the repository of Market Research, is titled Global Fluorescein Market 2017. The research report analyses the historical as well as present performance of the worldwide Fluorescein industry, and makes predictions on the future status of Fluorescein market on the basis of this analysis.Get Free Sample Copy of Report Here :Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This ReportThermo fisherSIGMA-ALDRICHCHEMOSHangzhou DayangChemSiddhichemAkornThe report studies the industry for Fluorescein across the globe taking the existing industry chain, the import and export statistics in Fluorescein market & dynamics of demand and supply of Fluorescein into consideration. The 'Fluorescein' research study covers each and every aspect of the Fluorescein market globally, which starts from the definition of the Fluorescein industry and develops towards Fluorescein market segmentations. Further, every segment of the Fluorescein market is classified and analyzed on the basis of product types, application, and the end-use industries of the Fluorescein market. The geographical segmentation of the Fluorescein industry has also been covered at length in this report.The competitive landscape of the worldwide market for Fluorescein is determined by evaluating the various industry participants, production capacity, Fluorescein market's production chain, and the revenue generated by each manufacturer in the Fluorescein market worldwide.Enquire Here :The global Fluorescein market 2017 is also analyzed on the basis of product pricing, Fluorescein production volume, data regarding demand and Fluorescein supply, and the revenue garnered by the product. Various methodical tools such as investment returns, feasibility, and market attractiveness analysis has been used in the research to present a comprehensive study of the industry for Fluorescein across the globe.About UsApexResearch offer reports from top publishers and update to serve you with immediate on-line access to professional insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends. Customers can buys different reports across various categories such as Chemical and Material, Biotechnology, Healthcare, Food and beverages, Automobile and various sectors. Our Website offers safe and secure online ordering experience, convenient payment options.Contact UsFrank ValadezBusiness Development Executive| sales@apexresearch.biz
Baby Product Market To Witness Growth Based On Rising Demand For Safety And Convenience Products Till 2025: Grand View Research, Inc.
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The global baby product market is expected to reach USD 121.0 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Rising spending capability in matured economies of North America and Europe will augment industry growth over the next nine years.Increasing birthrate in emerging economies of Asia Pacific including India and China is anticipated to drive the demand for infant items over the forecast period. Rising awareness among the customers about infant nutrition, hygiene, and safety in the region will fuel demand over the forecast period. Continuous innovation among manufactures is expected to propel industry growth over the forecast period.Cosmetics & toiletries held the largest share in the market. Cosmetics help to enhance infant skin, provide nourishment, resist swelling, itching, rashes and inflammations. Apart from that it tends to posses antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, which soothe and provide luster to the skin. These beneficial properties are expected to drive the demand over the forecast period.Infant food provides essential ingredients which include vitaminB12, protein, carbohydrate, and iron which are required in different growth phases of babies, so as to develop a good immune system. Rising number of food varieties coupled with its ease of use when travelling is expected to have a positive impact on the market over the forecast period.Browse full research report on Global Baby Product Market:(Further key findings from the report suggest: Baby product market is expected to witness growth at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2016 to 2025 owing to increased female working population resulting in higher demand for ready-to-use items Cosmetics & toiletries will witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2016 to 2024 owing to rising awareness regarding infant hygiene Asia Pacific market was estimated at over USD 17 billion in 2015 on account of growing awareness about baby nutrition, hygiene and safety coupled with increased disposable income Key participants include Procter & Gamble Company, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Johnson & Johnson Plc, Unilever Plc, Nestle S. A, and Abbott Nutrition Key companies in the market are focused on increasing their global presence through mergers & acquisitions and brand awareness. In November 2016, Dabur South Africa (Pty) Ltd acquired South Africas CTL Group of Companies personal care, hair care & creams businesses for USD 1.3 million In July 2016, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. completed the acquisition of Vogue International LLC, which is engaged in the manufacturing and distribution of hair care and other personal care products for $3.3 billionGrand View Research has segmented the global baby product market on the basis of product and region:Baby Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2014 - 2025) Cosmetic & Toiletrieso Baby Skin Care Productso Bath Productso Baby Hair Care Productso Other Cosmetics & Toiletries Baby Foodo Milk Productso Frozen Baby Foodo Baby Juiceo Baby Food Snackso Baby Food Cereals Baby Safety & Convenienceo Baby Strollerso Baby Car SeatsBaby Product Market Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2014 - 2025) North Americao U.S. Europeo UKo Germany Asia Pacifico Chinao Indiao Japan South & Central Americao Brazil Middle East & Africa (MEA)For more information:About Grand View ResearchGrand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. To help clients make informed business decisions, we offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across a range of industries, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare.Press ContactSherry James - Corporate Relations Specialist28 2nd Street, Suite 3036San Francisco, CA 94105United StatesPhone: 1-415-349-0058Email: sales@grandviewresearch.com
Fluorescence Microscopes Market 2017 - Bruker, Olympus, Leica, Zeiss, PicoQuant, Meiji Techno., Euromex, Keyence, Hysitron, Beijing Cewei
Fluorescence Microscopes Market
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A market study based on the "Fluorescence Microscopes Market" across the globe, recently added to the repository of Market Research, is titled Global Fluorescence Microscopes Market 2017. The research report analyses the historical as well as present performance of the worldwide Fluorescence Microscopes industry, and makes predictions on the future status of Fluorescence Microscopes market on the basis of this analysis.Get Free Sample Copy of Report Here :Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This ReportBrukerOlympusLeicaZeissThermo Fisher Scientific Inc.PicoQuantMeiji Techno.Guangzhou Micro-shot Technology Co., Ltd.EuromexKeyenceHysitronBeijing CeweiThe report studies the industry for Fluorescence Microscopes across the globe taking the existing industry chain, the import and export statistics in Fluorescence Microscopes market & dynamics of demand and supply of Fluorescence Microscopes into consideration. The 'Fluorescence Microscopes' research study covers each and every aspect of the Fluorescence Microscopes market globally, which starts from the definition of the Fluorescence Microscopes industry and develops towards Fluorescence Microscopes market segmentations. Further, every segment of the Fluorescence Microscopes market is classified and analyzed on the basis of product types, application, and the end-use industries of the Fluorescence Microscopes market. The geographical segmentation of the Fluorescence Microscopes industry has also been covered at length in this report.The competitive landscape of the worldwide market for Fluorescence Microscopes is determined by evaluating the various industry participants, production capacity, Fluorescence Microscopes market's production chain, and the revenue generated by each manufacturer in the Fluorescence Microscopes market worldwide.Enquire Here :The global Fluorescence Microscopes market 2017 is also analyzed on the basis of product pricing, Fluorescence Microscopes production volume, data regarding demand and Fluorescence Microscopes supply, and the revenue garnered by the product. Various methodical tools such as investment returns, feasibility, and market attractiveness analysis has been used in the research to present a comprehensive study of the industry for Fluorescence Microscopes across the globe.About UsApexResearch offer reports from top publishers and update to serve you with immediate on-line access to professional insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends. Customers can buys different reports across various categories such as Chemical and Material, Biotechnology, Healthcare, Food and beverages, Automobile and various sectors. Our Website offers safe and secure online ordering experience, convenient payment options.Contact UsFrank ValadezBusiness Development Executive| sales@apexresearch.biz
Global Wearable Medical Technology Market Outlook with Company Analysis and Forecast 2021
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The Global Wearable Medical Technology Market research report is a complete study of current trends in the market, industry growth drivers, and restraints. It provides market projections for the coming years. It includes analysis of recent developments in technology. The report also includes a review of micro and macro factors essential for the existing market players and new entrants along with detailed value chain analysis.Global Wearable Medical Technology Market key players are: Company A Company B Company C Company DBrowse the full Global Wearable Medical Technology Market Research Report @This market analysis includes a detailed segmentation of the Global Wearable Medical Technology Market by development trend and by application.The report covers the present year 2017 scenario and the growth prospects of the Global Wearable Medical Technology Market for 2017-2021.The report Global Wearable Medical Technology Market 2017-2021 has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market. The report also covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years.The Wearable Medical Technology Market By Geography North America Asia-Pacific EuropeRequest a sample of Global Wearable Medical Technology Market Research Report @Some of the points from table of content:Industry Overview Definition Classification Share Analysis Application AnalysisMarket Analysis Product Development History Process Development History Competitive Landscape AnalysisIndustry Development Trend Capacity Production Overview Production Market Share Analysis Demand OverviewMarket Status and Forecast Supply Demand and Shortage Import Export Consumption Cost Price Production Value Gross MarginReasons for Buying this Global Wearable Medical Technology Market Research Report This report helps to analyzed the world's main region market conditions It provides product manufacturing processes It provides industry policies and plans It provides overview of product specification It provides cost structures & so on.The Report Contains: 165 Pages.Price of the report: 2850$ (single user license)Check discount @About Us:Orbis Research (orbisresearch.com) is a single point aid for all your market research requirements. We have vast database of reports from the leading publishers and authors across the globe. We specialize in delivering customized reports as per the requirements of our clients. We have complete information about our publishers and hence are sure about the accuracy of the industries and verticals of their specialization. This helps our clients to map their needs and we produce the perfect required market research study for our clients.Contact Us:Hector CostelloSenior Manager Client Engagements4144N Central Expressway,Suite 600, Dallas,Texas - 75204, U.S.A.Phone No.: +1 (214) 884-6817; +912064101019Follow Us on LinkedIn:
Communications Test and Measurement Market Set to Witness an Uptick during, 2016 - 2024
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Subtitle: The Communications Test and Measurement Market report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.Communication test and measurement equipment is integrated test equipment comprising of software and hardware that is used by original manufacturers and network operators in order to deliver superior experience in data, video and voice communication. The communication test and measurement market provides efficient management of internet protocol TV by providing management, repair and deployment of services and networks. As digital communication network is increasing, the need for reliable and accurate test and measurement has increased.Growth in telecommunication industry is expected to grow the communication test and measurement market. Additionally, introduction of next generation cellular and wireless technology, growing demand of mobile phone and increasing bandwidth demand is expected to propel the communication test and measurement market. However, the major restrain of communication test and measurement equipment is, keeping pace with technological advances. The paradigm shift in cloud computing and evolving artificial intelligence technologies is expected to provide major opportunity for communication test and measurement market.Wireless communication test equipment market is expected to grow at fast rate compared to lab analytical instrumentation market and general purpose test equipment market. Increased adoption of 3G and 4G network is expected to drive the wireless communication test equipment market. By end user, the communication test and measurement market is segmented as network equipment manufacturers, mobile device manufacturers, telecommunication service providers, and enterprise. Globally, North America leads the communication, test and measurement equipment market followed by Europe. However Asia Pacific shows bright growth prospects due to increasing R&D investment.The key players of communication test and measurement market include Spirent communications, Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co KG, Octoscope, Agilent Technologies, Danaher Corporation, Exfo Inc., JDS Uniphase Corporation, Anritsu Corporation, Calnex Solutions and Yokogawa Electric among others.Browse Full Report summary and to request sample report and table of content @About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Persistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd.305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA - Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.com
High Performance Epoxy Market is Expected to Reach USD 14.9 Billion by 2022
High Performance Epoxy Market
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Market Research Future has a half-cooked research report on global high performance epoxy market which is growing rapidly and expected to continue its growth till 2022.Taste the market data and market information presented in more than 50 market data tables and figures spread over 85 pages of the project report. Avail the in-depth table of content (TOC) & market synopsis on Global High Performance Epoxy Market Research Report Forecast to 2022.Market Highlights:High performance epoxy is utilized to protect metal and concrete structure which includes, tanks and pipes which are affected resulting in corrosion of material as a result of exposure to acid rain and environment. High performance epoxy are utilized mainly in chemical plants, oil refinery, aerospace and marine industries.High performance epoxy markets drivers are end-use industries which are growing rapidly moreover epoxy has environmental friendly features which makes it suitable to be used in various industries. The market growth might be hindered as high performance epoxy raw material and product is quiet expensive.The high performance epoxy market is segmented on the basis of type namely resins, adhesives, pigments, solvents and others. The demand of resins is increasing consistently over the forecasted period. Further-more adhesives and pigments segment is anticipated to grow over the forecasted period.Request a Sample Copy @The high performance epoxy market is segmented on end-user namely aerospace & marine, automotive, consumer goods and others. The aerospace & marine as well as Consumer goods segment on the other hand is anticipated to grow over the forecasted period.Companies such as are Euclid Chemical Company, Sherwin-Williams Company, Rust-Oleum, V8 Floor Systems, Huntsman International LLC have implemented acquisition and expansion of business strategies to increase their acrylic markets presence geographically. Few global players have invested in R&D amenities to discover advanced and innovative products which has higher efficacy rate and convenience of being used.Key Players of High Performance Epoxy Market: Aksa Akrilik Kimya Sanayii A.S. (Aksa) Dralon Aditya Birla Group Jilin Chemical Fiber Group Company Taekwang Industrial Co. Ltd. Exlan Japan Co. Ltd. Kaneka Corporation Indian Acrylics Limited Pasupati Acrylon Ltd. Vardhman Acrylics Ltd.Segmentation:The global high performance epoxy market is majorly segmented on the basis of by type and by end-use. Based on type the market is segmented into resins, adhesives, pigments, solvents and others. On the basis of end-use the market is classified aerospace & marine, automotive, consumer goods and othersBrief TOC for High Performance Epoxy Market:1 Executive Summary2 Scope of The Report2.1 Market Definition2.2 Scope of The Study2.2.1 Research Objectives2.2.2 Assumptions & Limitations2.3 Markets Structure3 Market Research Methodology3.1 Research Process3.2 Secondary Research3.3 Primary Research3.4 Forecast Model4 Market Landscape4.1 Five Forces Analysis4.1.1 Threat of New Entrants4.1.2 Bargaining power of buyers4.1.3 Threat of substitutes4.1.4 Segment rivalry4.2 Value Chain/Supply Chain of Global High PerTypeance Epoxy Market5 Industry Overview of Global High PerTypeance Epoxy Market5.1 Introduction5.2 Growth Drivers5.3 Impact analysis5.4 Market Challenges5.5 Impact analysisContinueRegional Analysis:Asia-Pacific region is expected to maintain its dominance in the global high performance epoxy market. Emerging markets of China, South Korea, Taiwan and India are expected to boost the Asia Pacific high performance epoxy market. Other emerging markets are North-America and Europe countries.The largest market of high performance epoxy is in Asia-Pacific as it has highest consumer of high performance epoxy. China is the leading producer of high performance epoxy followed by South Korea. North-America are second largest market of high performance epoxy.Access Report Details @Intended Audience: High performance epoxy manufacturers Traders and distributors of high performance epoxy Application industries Potential investors Raw material suppliers Nationalized laboratoryAbout Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research which includes by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional and country level market segments, enables our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Akash AnandMarket Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Floor Socket Market 2017 - Mita, Vynco, Tlc, British General, Toolstation, MK Electric, City Electrical Factors, Legrand, Ningbo Jiangdong Join Industry Co., Ltd
Floor Socket Market
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A market study based on the "Floor Socket Market" across the globe, recently added to the repository of Market Research, is titled Global Floor Socket Market 2017. The research report analyses the historical as well as present performance of the worldwide Floor Socket industry, and makes predictions on the future status of Floor Socket market on the basis of this analysis.Get Free Sample Copy of Report Here :Top Manufacturers Analysis Of This ReportMitaBritish GeneralToolstationMK ElectricVyncoTlcCity Electrical FactorsLegrandZhejiang Jinhao Electrical Co., Ltd.Shenzhen Keding Hardware Co., Ltd.Ningbo Jiangdong Join Industry Co., Ltd.The report studies the industry for Floor Socket across the globe taking the existing industry chain, the import and export statistics in Floor Socket market & dynamics of demand and supply of Floor Socket into consideration. The 'Floor Socket' research study covers each and every aspect of the Floor Socket market globally, which starts from the definition of the Floor Socket industry and develops towards Floor Socket market segmentations. Further, every segment of the Floor Socket market is classified and analyzed on the basis of product types, application, and the end-use industries of the Floor Socket market. The geographical segmentation of the Floor Socket industry has also been covered at length in this report.The competitive landscape of the worldwide market for Floor Socket is determined by evaluating the various industry participants, production capacity, Floor Socket market's production chain, and the revenue generated by each manufacturer in the Floor Socket market worldwide.Enquire Here :The global Floor Socket market 2017 is also analyzed on the basis of product pricing, Floor Socket production volume, data regarding demand and Floor Socket supply, and the revenue garnered by the product. Various methodical tools such as investment returns, feasibility, and market attractiveness analysis has been used in the research to present a comprehensive study of the industry for Floor Socket across the globe.About UsApexResearch offer reports from top publishers and update to serve you with immediate on-line access to professional insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends. Customers can buys different reports across various categories such as Chemical and Material, Biotechnology, Healthcare, Food and beverages, Automobile and various sectors. Our Website offers safe and secure online ordering experience, convenient payment options.Contact UsFrank ValadezBusiness Development Executive| sales@apexresearch.biz
Thermoform Packaging Market - Trends, Growth Propellers, Segmentation And Top Players
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This report provides forecast and analysis of the thermoform packaging market on the global and regional level. The study provides historic data of 2015 along with forecast from 2016 to 2024 based on volume (000 KT) and revenue (US$ Mn). It includes drivers, restraints and the ongoing trend of the retort packaging market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. The report also comprises the study of opportunities available in the market for thermoform packaging on the global and regional level. It includes value chain analysis with list of raw material & technology suppliers, thermoform packaging manufacturers, distributor & suppliers and end users in the value chain.Obtain Report Details @In order to provide the users of this report with comprehensive view of market, we have included detailed competitiveness analysis and company players. The competitive dashboard provides detailed comparison of thermoform packaging manufacturers on parameters such as companys revenue, unique selling propositions and key strategic developments. The study encompasses market attractiveness analysis, by packaging type, material type, application type, and by geographic region.Global Thermoform Packaging Market: ScopeMarket statistics have been estimated based on average consumption and weighted average pricing of thermoform packaging by packaging type and the revenue is derived through regional pricing trends. Market size and forecast for each segment have been provided in the context of global and regional markets. The thermoform packaging market has been analyzed based on expected demand. Prices considered for the calculation of revenue are average regional prices obtained through primary quotes from numerous thermoform packaging manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. All key end users have been considered and potential applications have been estimated on the basis of secondary sources and feedback from primary respondents.Global Thermoform Packaging Market: Regional OutlookRegional demand patterns have been considered while estimating the market for various end users of thermoform packaging in different regions. Top-down approach has been used to estimate the thermoform packaging market by regions. Market numbers for global packaging type, material type and application segments have been derived using the bottom-up approach, which is cumulative of each regions demand. The market has been forecast based on constant currency rates.Make an Enquiry @Global Thermoform Packaging Market: Research MethodologyA number of primary and secondary sources were consulted during the course of the study. Secondary sources include Factiva, World Bank, Packaging Digest, Plastic Manufacturers Association, Society of the Plastics Industry, Plastics Europe, and Hoovers, and company annual reports and publications.Key Players Mentioned in this Report are:The report provides detailed competitive outlook including company profiles of key participants operating in the global market. Key players in the global thermoform packaging market include, Amcor limited, Bemis Company, Inc., Placon Corporation, Sonoco Products Company, HUHTAMAKI GROUP, Tray-Pak Corporation, Display Pack Inc., Anchor Packaging, Inc., PACTIV LLC and D&W FINE PACK.About TMRTMR is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Antimicrobial Packaging Market - Global Industry Analysis, Growth, Trends and Forecast For 2016 - 2024
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This report covers the analysis and forecast of the antimicrobial packaging market on a global and regional level. The study provides historic data of 2015 along with forecast for the period between 2016 and 2024 based on volume (kilo tons) and revenue (US$ Mn).Browse Market Research Report @The study provides a decisive view of the antimicrobial packaging market by segmenting it based on material, technology, antimicrobial agents, package type, application, and regional demand. Material segmentation includes analysis on types of materials used in antimicrobial packaging and their future projections. Technology segment includes analysis on controlled released packaging and active packaging and their current and future trends. Antimicrobial agents segments have been analyzed based on current trends and future potential. The market has been estimated from 2016 to 2024 in terms of revenue (US$ Mn) and volume (kilo tons). Regional segmentation includes the current and forecast demand for North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. These have been further sub-segmented into countries and regions with relevance to the market. The segmentation also includes demand for material, technology, antimicrobial agents, package type and applications in all regions.Global Antimicrobial Packaging Market: Scope of the StudyThe report provides the size of the antimicrobial packaging market in 2015 and the forecast for the next nine years up to 2024. The size of the global antimicrobial packaging market is provided in terms of revenue and volume. Market revenue for regions is defined in US$ Mn and volume in kilo tons. The market size and forecast for each package type segment is provided in the context of global and regional markets. Numbers provided in this report are derived based on demand generated from different material, technology, antimicrobial agents, package type and application. Market dynamics prevalent in North America and Asia Pacific have been taken into account for estimating the growth of the global market.The study covers the drivers and restraints governing the dynamics of the market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. Additionally, the report includes potential opportunities in the antimicrobial packaging market on the global and regional level.The market has been forecast based on the amount of different types of packaging in demand. Demand for antimicrobial packaging vary in each region as a result of the food habits of consumers & healthcare industry trends of each region and climatic conditions that prevails in each region. Individual material, technology, antimicrobial agents, package type and application have been taken into account while estimating and forecasting overall revenue and volume.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report @Global Antimicrobial Packaging Market: Research MethodologiesMarket estimates for this study have been based on revenue and volume. The factors for use of antimicrobial packaging in each application have been considered in calculating the revenue of the market. Demand for antimicrobial packaging has been derived by analyzing the global and regional demand for antimicrobial packaging in each application. The antimicrobial packaging market has been analyzed based on expected demand. Market data for each segment is based on corresponding revenues and volume. Factors considered for calculation of revenue and volume is drivers, restraints, and opportunities. Forecasts have been based on the expected demand from antimicrobial packaging applications. We have used the top down and bottom - up approach to estimate the market, split into regions. The application split of the market has been derived using a top-down approach for each regional market separately, with the global application segment split being an integration of regional estimates. Companies were considered for their product portfolio, revenue, and manufacturing capacity. In the absence of specific data related to the sales of antimicrobial packaging of several privately held companies, calculated assumptions have been made in view of the companys product portfolio and regional presence along with the demand for products in its portfolio.Global Antimicrobial Packaging Market: Competitive LandscapeWe have included competitive landscape of the market. The study encompasses market attractiveness analysis, wherein all the segments have been benchmarked based on their market size, growth rate, and general attractiveness for future growth.The report covers a detailed competitive outlook that includes market share and company profiles of key players operating in the global market. Key players profiled in the report include Takex Labo Co.Ltd, Sciessent LLC, BASF SE, The Dow Chemical Company, Barr Brands International, Mondi PLC, LINPAC Senior Holdings Limited, PolyOne Corporation, BioCote Limited and Dunmore Corporation among others.About TMRTMR is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Throat Cancer Market to Provide Over USD 7 Billion Revenue by 2022
Throat Cancer Market
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Synopsis of Throat Cancer MarketMarket Forecast:Market Research Future has a Half Cooked Research Report on Global Throat Cancer Market. The Global Throat Cancer Market is expected to reach around USD 7 Billion during the forecasted period.Market Highlights and Drivers:The Global Throat Cancer Market has been examined as a swiftly growing market and expected to grow at a tremendous rate. Globally there is huge demand for throat cancer treatment in various regions. The factors that drive the throat cancer market are the rising aging population, growing demand for advanced cancer therapies, increasing government funding in the healthcare sector, and growth of cancer care facilities in emerging countries.Request a Sample Copy of Report @The market is classified and analyzed on the basis of various segments including geographies, which consist of; Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. Out of all, North America accounts for the largest share in the market. In addition, Europe and Asia-Pacific is the fastest growing segment in the throat cancer market.Global Throat Cancer Market Key Players:The major players of this market are Amgen Inc. Bristol-Myers Squibb Celgene Corporation Eli Lilly And Company Engeneic Ltd F. Hoffmann-la Roche AG Merck & Co., Inc. Novartis Pfizer Inc. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.Access the market data and market information presented through more than 50 market data tables and figures spread over 80 numbers of pages of the project report Global Throat Cancer MarketBrowse Report Details @Market Research Analysis:It has been found that throat cancer is caused due to various problems one of which is smoking and drinking. These factors are growing the throat cancer market rapidly. Developing healthcare industry plays a major role in the growth of this market as new drugs, therapies and treatments have been evolved since the occurrence of throat cancer, which makes these treatments popular and the demand for these treatments will grow eventually.The Early Diners are Offered Free Customization - Up to 20% on this Report.Make an Enquiry for this Report @About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Global Vaccine Adjuvants Market Components, Share, Size, Proportion, Applications Forecasted to 2027
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Market Highlights:Globally the market for Vaccine Adjuvants is increasing rapidly. The factors that influence the growth of Vaccine Adjuvants Extending government proposals for vaccinations, mechanical advancements, Unmet Vaccine advertise requirements for specific diseases, expanding utilization of recombinant subunit and manufactured immunizations are the driving components for this business sector.Major Key Players Adjuvatis (France) Sergeant Adjuvants (U.S) SEPPIC (France) Agenus, Inc. (U.s) Novavax, Inc.(U.s) SPI Pharma, Inc.(U.s) Invivogen (U.s) Avanti Polar Lipids, Inc. (U.S) MPV Technologies (U.s) OZ Biosciences (France) Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.(India) CureVac AG (Germany) Brenntag Biosector (Denmark) CSL Limited (Australia)Request a Sample Report @Hottest trend in the marketAnticholinergic medications follow up on efferent nerves to neutralize overactive bladder (OAB) after it happens. To keep the event of OAB, treatments ought to be coordinated at hindering the afferent nerves that control the bladder.The new devices accessible today to treat urinary incontinence are far more superior to those in the course of recent years. Notwithstanding unique accentuation on afferent neuron action, consideration should be coordinated toward quality treatment and conveyance of medicine specifically into the bladder with advanced devicesThe report for Vaccine Adjuvants of Market Research Future comprises of extensive primary research along with the detailed analysis of qualitative as well as quantitative aspects by various industry experts, key opinion leaders to gain the deeper insight of the market and industry performance.Taste the market data and market information presented through more than 50 market data tables and figures spread in 115 numbers of pages of the project report. Avail the in-depth table of content TOC & market synopsis on Global Vaccine Adjuvants Market Research Report - Forecast to 2027Study Objectives of Vaccine Adjuvants To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 10 years of the various segments and sub-segments of the global Vaccine Adjuvants market To provide insights about factors affecting the market growth To Analyze the Vaccine Adjuvants market based on various factors- price analysis, supply chain analysis, porters five force analysis etc. To provide historical and forecast revenue of the market segments and sub-segments with respect to four main geographies and their countries- Americas, Europe, Asia, and Rest of the World (ROW) To provide country level analysis of the market with respect to the current market size and future prospective To provide country level analysis of the market for segment by Type, by End-users, Administration and its sub-segments. To provide strategic profiling of key players in the market, comprehensively analyzing their core competencies, and drawing a competitive landscape for the market To track and analyze competitive developments such as joint ventures, strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, new product developments, and research and developments in the global Vaccine Adjuvants marketAccess Report Details @Among the Urinary incontinence market Device segment is compositing the growth of the marketMarket SegmentsThe market for Vaccine Adjuvants is segmented in mainly three parts i.e. by type, by devices and its various sub-segments; by type include pathogen components, particulate adjuvants, combination adjuvants and others. Whereas by end users include hospitals, clinics, research laboratories and others. Furthermore by administration includes oral, intradermal and intranasalAmericas North America US Canada Latin AmericaEurope Western Europe Germany France Italy Spain UK Rest of Western Europe Eastern EuropeAsia PacificAsia China India Japan South Korea Rest of AsiaPacificThe Middle East& AfricaThe report gives the clear picture of current market scenario which includes historical and projected market size in terms of value and volume, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report provides details information and strategies of the top key players in the industry. The report also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regions.Related Reports:-Platelet Agitator Market Information, by type (Flatbed, Circular and Combination devices), by capacity (small, medium and large) by end user (autonomous blood banks, hospital based blood banks and others) - Forecast to 2027About Market Research FutureAt Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research Future+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Despite all of his baggage, I voted for Donald Trump in November of 2016 largely because of the promise he made to the workforce. Part of "Make America Great Again" was seeing "Made in the USA" again. Workers would prosper and be "put first."
President Trump carried Iowa by 10 percent. Workers abandoned their traditional party and voted for Trump and Republicans down the ticket.
On Monday, I received an email about a new workers compensation bill. What I read shocked me. It is why I write this article. People need to be informed about this legislation.
This new work comp legislation puts Iowans last. In work comp circles, the work comp bills (HSB 169 in the House and SSB 1170 in the Senate) are being discussed as legislation that will "gut" or "wipe out" worker's comp in Iowa.
I practice workers' compensation law and have been for quite some time. I consider Iowa's work comp to be a good system that gets it right most of the time and makes injured workers whole. It does not need an overhaul.
After getting Monday's email, I made some calls to see what was going on and to see if this would pass into law. I became even more surprised. I was told it would likely soon be enacted.
I felt like I had been hit by a ton of bricks. My fellow Iowans were going to be hurt really bad and would not even know it was coming.
In my career, I have worked on cases for the injured worker and on cases for the employer/insurance carrier. If advising either side on this legislation, I would give the same advice. In my legal opinion, the new work comp legislation will have the effect of treating most injured workers like property or equipment. Use and throw away. Let someone else worry about what happens next.
I say this because the proposed work comp legislation does more than fix minor problems or injustices in the system. It makes the entire system unjust and unfair for the injured worker. There have always been what amount to caps on money benefits in work comp. The new law reduces the caps by about 90 percent in many cases involving the most serious injuries.
It would allow denial of medical care and money benefits in many cases when a person suffers a serious spinal injury, shoulder injury, or other injury at work and has degeneration or wear and tear on their body because of age. Worker's right to a second medical opinion would be restricted; employees were given this right 100 years ago because employers were given the right to choose the doctors.
Older people are singled out and get less benefits because of their age even if they intended to keep working before suffering the injury.
In short, when people are seriously injured at work, they will not be made whole. Many people will be unable to meet their bills and there will consequences on families.
People I spoke with about this legislation, including lawyers and others in the know about the legislation, told me that the arguments about injustice to Iowa workers would fall on silent ears. The powers that be do not care.
However, people need to consider other consequences of this law. The burdens of workers' compensation will be shifted off workers' compensation and onto society in general. Taxpayers will end up paying more. Health insurance will end up paying more.
There are lots of misconceptions about work comp that may be driving support for this new legislation. The new law will not cut wasteful government spending. Work comp is not a government benefit. Work comp is insurance paid by the employer.
There is a fallacy in the argument that premiums will go down. If premiums are reduced, the reduction will not be enough to make any real difference on how businesses operate. People always complain about work comp insurance; it is a cost of doing business. Plus, work comp insurance rates are already regulated by the state.
In regards to employees who are faking a work injury, Iowa work comp allows for broad discovery under the rules of civil procedure. If someone is faking an injury, it will be discovered under the current system. We do not need new legislation to stop fake work injuries.
Do all employers really support this? Our firm has seven employees. I want to make sure that our employees are adequately compensated if they are injured while working for our firm. I want their families to remain comfortable and I do not want people to be unable to pay bills or pay for housing. The current work comp system allows this; the new one will not.
And what happened to Iowa values? I came to Iowa from the Chicago suburbs to attend the University of Iowa about 17 years ago. I stayed in Iowa because I saw society at its best in Iowa. This proposed legislation offers everything that Iowa is not. It targets people who are most vulnerable. It specifically targets older Iowans. The new law will bring out the worst in Iowa.
I hope people believe me and contact their local lawmakers to oppose this law. I hope lawmakers reading this article oppose this law. I write this article impartially and without an agenda or special interest in mind. It is the injured Iowans and their families that will be devastated by the proposed law. People really need to know that before they vote for it. They also need to know about the costs that will be shifted to taxpayers, health care, and others.
Where is Donald Trump for the Iowa worker now?
Diamond Tools Market 2017: Global Industry Outlook | DecisionDatabases.com
Diamond Tool Market
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The report on Diamond Tools market is the latest addition to the huge database of DecisionDatabases.com. This research study is segmented on the basis of applications, technology, geography, and types. The Report provides a detailed Diamond Tools Industry overview along with the analysis of industrys gross margin, cost structure, consumption value, and sale price. The leading companies of the Diamond Tools Market, manufacturers, and distributors are profiled in the report along with the latest Industry development current and future trends.Access the Report and full TOC @Firstly, the report provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The Diamond Tools market analysis is provided for the international market including development history, competitive landscape analysis, and major regions development status.Secondly, development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures. This report also states importexport, supply and consumption figures as well as cost, price, revenue and gross margin by regions and other regions can be added.Download Free sample Report @Then, the report focuses on global major leading industry players with information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information. Upstream raw materials, equipment and downstream consumers analysis is also carried out. Whats more, the Diamond Tools industry development trends and marketing channels are analyzed.Finally, the feasibility of new investment projects is assessed, and overall research conclusions are offered. In a word, the report provides major statistics on the state of the industry and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the market.Purchase a copy of Report @Table of Contents - Snapshot1 Industry Overview2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis3 Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis4 Capacity, Production and Revenue Analysis by Regions, Types and Manufacturers5 Price, Cost, Gross and Gross Margin Analysis by Regions, Types and Manufacturers6 Consumption Volume, Consumption Value and Sale Price Analysis by Regions, Types and Applications7 Supply, Import, Export and Consumption Analysis8 Major Manufacturers Analysis9 Marketing Trader or Distributor Analysis10 Industry Chain Analysis11 Development Trend of Analysis12 New Project Investment Feasibility Analysis13 ConclusionView Related Reports @Global Diamond and Gemstone Market Research Report 2017Global Diamond Coating Market Research Report 2016Global Diamond Core Drilling Sales Market Report 2017About Us:DecisionDatabases.com is a global business research reports provider, enriching decision makers and strategists with qualitative statistics. DecisionDatabases.com is proficient in providing syndicated research Report, customized research reports, company profiles and industry databases across multiple domains.Our expert research analysts have been trained to map clients research requirements to the correct research resource leading to a distinctive edge over its competitors. We provide intellectual, precise and meaningful data at a lightning speed.3rd Floor, Fountain chambers,Nanabhai Lane, Fort, Mumbai - 1E-Mail: sales@decisiondatabases.comPhone: +91 99 28 237112Web:
Current As Well As Future prospects of Microfluidics Market Globally For The Forecast Period 2017 - 2025
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ResearchMoz presents this most up-to-date research on "Current As Well As Future prospects of Microfluidics Market Globally For The Forecast Period 2017 - 2025".This report on microfluidic market studies the current as well as future prospects of the market globally. The stakeholders of this report include companies and intermediaries engaged in the manufacture and commercialization of various microfluidics instrument and products as well as new entrants planning to enter this market. This report comprises an elaborate executive summary along with a market snapshot providing overall information of various segments and sub-segments considered within the scope of the study. This section also provides the overall information and data analysis of the global microfluidics market with respect to the leading market segments based on major products, applications, key materials utilized, end-users, and geographies.Global Microfluidics Market: Segmentation AnalysisThe global microfluidics market has been studied based on major product segments, application segments, material segments, their end-users, and regional as well as national markets. Based on product type, the global market has been categorized into three major 4 segments: instruments, microfluidic chip, cartridges & reagents and others. On the basis of applications the microfluidics market is classified as peripheral vascular diseases, Wound care management, pharmaceutical & biotech Research, Invitro Diagnostics (IVD), Drug Delivery and Others. On the basis of material the segment has been classified in to Polymer based, Glass based and others. On the basis of end users the market has been classified as hospitals, diagnostic Lab, academics & research institutes, homecare settings and others.Global Microfluidics Market: Scope of the ReportThe market overview section of the report explores the market dynamics such as drivers, restraints, and opportunities that currently have a strong impact on the global microfluidics market and could influence the market in the near future. Market attractiveness analysis has been provided in all the sections of the report in order to explain the intensity of competition in the market across different products/materials/applications/end-users/geographies. The competitive scenario among different market players is evaluated through market share analysis in the competition landscape section of the report. The section also includes completion matrix that analyzes the competition among some of the top global players operating in the market. All these factors would help market players to take strategic decisions in order to strengthen their positions and expand their shares in the global market.Make an Enquiry of this report @Global Microfluidics Market: Regional OutlookGeographically, the microfluidics market has been segmented into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa (MEA), and Latin America. Each regional market for microfluidics has been further categorized into major product, applications, material, and end-user segments considered within the scope of the study. Key country (U.S., Canada, Japan, Germany, France, U.K., Australia, Canada, China, Brazil, Mexico, India, etc.) market revenues have also been provided in different regional sections within the report. Market revenue in terms of US$ Mn and volume in terms of units for the period from 2015 to 2025 along with CAGR % from 2016 to 2025 are provided for all the regions and nations considering 2016 as the base year.Key Players Mentioned in this Report are:The report also profiles key players operating in the microfluidics market based on various attributes such as company details, SWOT analysis, strategic overview, financials, and business overview. Major players profiled in this report include Danaher Corporation, PerkinElmer, Inc., Agilent Technologies, Inc., Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc, RainDance Technologies, Inc., and F. Hoffmann La-Roche Ltd.The global microfluidics market has been segmented as follows:Microfluidic Market, by Product TypeMicrofluidic ChipInstrumentsCartridges & ReagentsOthersMicrofluidic Market, by ApplicationPeripheral Vascular DiseasesWound Care ManagementPharmaceutical & Biotech ResearchIn vitro DiagnosticsDrug DeliveryOthersMicrofluidic Market, by MaterialPolymer basedGlass basedOthersMicrofluidic Market, by End-userHospitalsAcademic & Research InstituteDiagnostic LabHomecare settingsOthersMicrofluidics Market, by GeographyNorth AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeGermanyFranceU.K.ItalySpainTo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Drug Rescue Market: Asia Pacific is the most progressive region for the drug rescue market due to increasing over-the-counter rescue medicines in the region
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Drug rescue is also termed as rescue medicines. These are given only when needed or in emergency cases. Drug which is given to counter or block the effect of other medicines are called as rescue medicines. Rescue medications are often used for asthma, in chemotherapy, in severe allergies, in epilepsy, etc. These are fast acting or quick acting medications. Rescue medicines are used in severe asthma attack, migraine attack, or in severe allergy reaction and help to save lives. In clinical trials, rescue medicines are given with a drug to control the alleviated symptoms of the study treatment or lack of disease efficiency. The effect of rescue drugs are not long lasting, but these quickly stop the symptoms of study drug.The drug rescue market has been segmented based on drug class, indication, route of administration, and distribution channel. In terms of drug class, the market has been segmented into antiepileptics, analgesics, antinauseants, muscle relaxants, and bronchodilators.Obtain Report Details:Based on indication, the drug rescue market has been categorized into asthma, migraine, epilepsy, cancer, hypertension, cardiac attack, and others. Rescue medicines prevent asthma attack quickly. Bronchodilators are the generally used medication in asthma. Bronchodilators help open the airways by dilating the bronchi and enable a patient to breathe more easily. Migraine is another medical condition where rescue medications are widely used. Migraine attacks are disabling and severe. Several over-the-counter or prescription medicines are available to stop a migraine attack. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen or drugs containing caffeine are the most common rescue medicines for migraine.Benzodiazepines are the most common rescue medicines for seizures or epilepsy attack. Benzodiazepine is a fast acting drug and starts work quickly once it gets into the bloodstream to prevent seizures. Benzodiazepines are available in different forms such chewing pills, oral tablet, or nasal sprays. The most common benzodiazepines used as rescue medications are diazepam, lorazepam, and midazolam. Intravenous treatment is given in hypertension and cardiac emergencies. These directly go into the bloodstream and 100% bioavailability can be achieved by intravenous route. Sodium nitroprusside, nitroglycerin, labetalol, and nicardipine are the commonly used drugs for hypertension.In terms of route of administration, the drug rescue market has been segmented into oral, parenteral, sublingual, nasal, and rectal. Nasal route is the widely used route of administration for asthma and epilepsy attacks. Drugs given through nasal route have fast effect. The smaller mist particles directly go in systemic circulation and act quickly. Intravenous route is given in severe conditions when other route of administration do not work.Based on distribution channel, the drug rescue market has been segmented into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. Retail pharmacies is widely used distribution channel as many over-the-counter rescue drugs are also available. Growth of the online pharmacies segment is likely to boost the market during the forecast period.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report:In terms of region, the drug rescue market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America is projected to account for the major share of the drug rescue market owing to increasing incidence of severe and chronic medical conditions. The rising geriatric population is also anticipated to boost the growth of the market during the forecast period. Asia Pacific is the most progressive region for the drug rescue market due to increasing over-the-counter rescue medicines in the region.Major factor boosting the growth of this market include rising demand for quick treatment for severe medical conditions. However, the increasing side effects of rescue medicines is likely to restrain the drug rescue market.Major players in the drug rescue market are Bioneer Corporation, VistaGen Therapeutics, Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Teva Pharmaceutical Industry Ltd., Merck & Co., Inc., and UCB Group of Companies.The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a U.S.-based provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact us:Transparency Market Research90 State Street,Suite 700,AlbanyNY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Automotive LiDAR Market is Anticipated to Reach USD 223.2 Million by 2024
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The global automotive LiDAR market is expected to reach USD 223.2 million by 2024, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The surging acceptance of automobile safety application arenas and sophisticated technology incorporations in automobile driving automation are expected to boost the market growth. The increasing acceptance for semi-autonomous and autonomous cars in the years to come is further anticipated to bolster the market growth.Browse the report:The market can be categorized, based on application types, into Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) & autonomous cars.The ADAS application segment is further segregated into Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). The ADAS application segment is expected witness a significant growth, owing to the surging incorporation of forward-collision avoidance systems.Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is adiscretionary cruising choice for automobiles that robotically modifies the vehicle speed to retain a safe distance from vehicles ahead.The rising adoption of these systems in autonomous and semi-autonomous cars at various levels of automation is expected to draw huge ventures from the key participants, thus driving the regional market demand in the years to come.Request a sample of the report:In October 2016, Infineon Technologies AG (Germany) acquired Innoluce BV (The Netherlands), a fabless semiconductor company headquartered in Nijmegen. Infineon says it would develop chip components for high-performance LiDAR systems by utilizing Innoluce's patented technology. This acquisition is expected to establish Infineon's strong foothold as one of the automotive safety technologies vendors.Further key findings from the report suggest:The global automotive LiDAR market is estimated to grow significantly over the forecast period due to the automation in the car safety technology, leading to reduced human efforts and increased efficiency.Extensive R&D by market players,updated ratings of safety agencies and the increasing awareness, among consumers, have fueled the market growth assome major automakers have already started to integrate basic AEB systems as optional and standard options into their mass-market models.Buy the report@The markets in the North American region including the U.S. & Canada and the European regions occupied a marginal proportion of the market share in 2015 on account of the administrative regulations mandating the installation of certain automotive safety technologies in both light weight and heavy weight vehicles in the region.The key industry participants include Robert Bosch GmbH, Denso Corporation, Velodyne LiDAR, Inc., Novariant, Inc., LeddarTech, Continental AG, and Quanergy Systems, Inc.Major Points From Table Of Contents:Chapter One: Methodology and ScopeChapter Two: Executive SummaryChapter Three: Automotive LiDAR Industry OutlookChapter Four: Automotive LiDAR Application Type OutlookChapter Five: Automotive LiDAR Regional OutlookChapter Six: Competitive LandscapeAbout Us:Orbis Research (orbisresearch.com) is a single point aid for all your market research requirements. We have vast database of reports from the leading publishers and authors across the globe. We specialize in delivering customized reports as per the requirements of our clients. We have complete information about our publishers and hence are sure about the accuracy of the industries and verticals of their specialization. This helps our clients to map their needs and we produce the perfect required market research study for our clients.Contact Information:Hector CostelloSenior Manager Client Engagements4144N Central Expressway,Suite 600, Dallas,Texas 75204, U.S.A.Phone No.: +1 (214) 884-6817; +9164101019Email: sales@orbisresearch.com
Europe Emergency Department Information System Market Analysis 2017 Latest Development Trends
Emergency Department Information System Market
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The report on Emergency Department Information System market is the latest addition to the huge database of DecisionDatabases.com. This research study is segmented on the basis of applications, technology, geography, and types. The Report provides a detailed Emergency Department Information System Industry overview along with the analysis of industrys gross margin, cost structure, consumption value, and sale price. The leading companies of the Emergency Department Information System Market, manufacturers, and distributors are profiled in the report along with the latest Industry development current and future trends.Access the Report and full TOC @This report studies sales (consumption) of Emergency Department Information System in Europe market, especially in Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy, Spain, and Benelux, focuses on top players in these countries, with sales, price, revenue and market share for each player in these Countries, covering* Allscripts Healthcare Solutions* Cerner Corporation* Computer Sciences Corporation* EPOWERdoc* McKesson Corporation* MEDHOST* MEDITECH* Siemens AG* T-Systems* Wellsoft CorporationMarket Segment by Countries, this report splits Europe into several key Countries, with sales (consumption), revenue, market share and growth rate of Emergency Department Information System in these countries, from 2011 to 2021 (forecast), like* Germany* France* UK* Russia* Italy* Spain* BeneluxDownload Free sample Report @Split by product type, with sales, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, can be divided into* On-Premise* Software as a ServiceSplit by application, this report focuses on sales, market share and growth rate of Emergency Department Information System in each application can be divided into* CPOE* Patient Tracking & Triage* OtherPurchase a copy of Report @Table of Contents - Snapshot1 Overview2 Europe by Manufacturers, Type and Application3 Germany (Volume, Value and Sales Price)4 France (Volume, Value and Sales Price)5 UK (Volume, Value and Sales Price)6 Russia (Volume, Value and Sales Price)7 Italy (Volume, Value and Sales Price)8 Spain (Volume, Value and Sales Price)9 Benelux (Volume, Value and Sales Price)10 Europe Manufacturers Analysis11 Manufacturing Cost Analysis12 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers13 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders14 Europe Market Forecast (2016-2021)15 Research Findings and Conclusion16 AppendixView Related Reports @Global ERP Software Market Research Report 2017About Us:DecisionDatabases.com is a global business research reports provider, enriching decision makers and strategists with qualitative statistics. DecisionDatabases.com is proficient in providing syndicated research Report, customized research reports, company profiles and industry databases across multiple domains.Our expert research analysts have been trained to map clients research requirements to the correct research resource leading to a distinctive edge over its competitors. We provide intellectual, precise and meaningful data at a lightning speed.3rd Floor, Fountain chambers,Nanabhai Lane, Fort, Mumbai - 1E-Mail: sales@decisiondatabases.comPhone: +91 99 28 237112Web:
Petrochemicals Capacity and Capital Expenditure: Global Outlook Of Ethylene And Methanol Petrochemicals Industry
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ResearchMoz presents this most up-to-date research on "Petrochemicals Capacity and Capital Expenditure: Global Outlook Of Ethylene And Methanol Petrochemicals Industry".Global petrochemicals capacity will experience considerable growth in the next nine years with increase from 1,447.9 mmtpa in 2016 to 1,619.3 mmtpa by 2025. Large capacity additions with more than 700 planned projects are expected to come online primarily in the China, US and Iran in the next nine years. NW Innovation Works Inc, Janus Methanol AG and Petroliam Nasional Berhad are the top three companies by capacity additions expected to come on-stream over the next nine years.Global petrochemical industry is expected to spend around US$243.1 billion by 2025 for the upcoming projects. The US, Russia and China are the top three countries by capital expenditure for projects by 2025.ScopeReport provides information and insight on -- Historic and forecast global petrochemical capacity by region- Global petrochemical planned plants details- Capacity share of the major petrochemical producers in the world- Global petrochemical capital expenditure forecast by regionReasons to buyThe report will clarify -- Understand the key trends in the global petrochemical industry- Understand the regional petrochemical supply scenario- Identify opportunities in the global petrochemical industry with the help of upcoming projects and capital expenditure forecast- Understand the current and likely future competitive scenario1 Table of Contents1 Table of Contents 21.1 List of Tables 31.2 List of Figures 7Make an Enquiry of this report @2 Global Petrochemicals Industry 82.1 Key Highlights 82.2 New Project Announcements 92.3 New Project Cancellations 102.4 Planned Petrochemicals Projects in the World 203 Appendix 1063.1 Definitions 1063.1.1 Installed Capacity 1063.2 Abbreviations 1063.3 GlobalDatas Research Methodology 1063.3.1 Coverage 1063.3.2 Secondary Research 1073.3.3 Primary Research 1073.3.4 Expert Panel Validation 1083.4 Disclaimer 1081.1 List of TablesTable 1: Total Petrochemicals Capacity by Region (mtpa) 10Table 2: Active, Planned, and Announced Petrochemicals Capacity by Region (mtpa), 2017 11Table 3: Petrochemicals Capacity Share of Top 10 Companies (%) 12Table 4: Petrochemicals Capacity of Top 10 Countries (mtpa) 13Table 5: Petrochemicals Capacity of Top 10 Commodities (mtpa) 14Table 6: Planned Capacity Additions by Region (mtpa) 15Table 7: Planned Capacity Additions by Top 10 Countries (mtpa) 16Table 8: Planned Capacity Additions by Top 10 Companies (mtpa) 17Table 9: Total Capex Spending On Planned Projects by Region (US$ bil) 18Table 10: Total Capex Spending On Planned Projects by Top 10 Countries (US$ bil) 19Table 11: Global Petrochemicals Major Planned Plant Details - Development Stage (Feasibility) 20Table 12: Global Petrochemicals Major Planned Plant Details (Contd) - Development Stage (Feasibility) 21To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Coal Mine Gate Cost Curve: Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast
Market Research Report
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ResearchMoz presents this most up-to-date research on "Coal Mine Gate Cost Curve: Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast".This report provides a breakdown of mining cash costs per tonne for individual coal operations, company production and country production. Timetrics analysis covers 270 coal operations accounting for over 1,000Mt of coal production globally. Overall 30 companies have been included, ranging from the large producers, such Peabody Energy, Shenhua Energy, and Glencore, to smaller players, such as Whitehaven.SummaryThis presentation and accompanying Excel data, provides an coal cost curve for 270 mines, with breakdown of costs into mining, processing, admin, royalties.Specific datasets include:Global Mine Level Cost CostsGlobal Company Equity Production CostsCountry level Production CostsPeabody Cost CurveScopeThe report is based Timetric's proprietary cost estimation model and data from Timetric's Mining Intelligence Center.Reasons To BuyUnderstand the global industry structure of coal minesAnalyze mines you may be working with, including how they compare against their peersAssess the performance of coal companiesMake an Enquiry of this report @Key HighlightsGlobal coal mine gate costs vary considerably. Large opencast operations in the US Powder River Basin, can have costs below US$10/t, while deeper pits in Australia can have costs closer to US$50/t.Processing costs make a difference in mine gate cost. Indonesian thermal coal, with its low ash content (below 5%) does not need to be washed, reducing costs by up US$10/t in comparison to Australian and US operations.Low strip ratios will ensure most operations have low mining costs per tonne. Indeed strip ratios are often the determinant for whether a coal deposit is economically feasible. Many of the higher strip operations produce high quality metallurgical coal, which generate higher revenues to cover their operating costs.Large US producers in the powder river basin, like Arch Coal and Peabody Energy dominate the first quartile of the cost curve. Major exporting companies such as Glencore, BHP Billiton and Anglo American are in the second and third quartiles: they produce higher quality coal, which is becoming rarer.Country level average mine gate cash costs reflect the nature of their respective coal industries. For instance the US has high cost operations in the Appalachian basin, however these are offset by their large opencast operation in the powder river basins. Australia is firmly in the second half of the curve, due to its higher strip ratios, and processing costs.Table of ContentsIntroductionMethodologyCost ComponentsKey HighlightsGlobal Coal Cost Curve, 2015Company Cost Curve, 2015Country Cost Curve 2015Peabody Energy Cost Curve, 2015Further InformationTo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Global Membrane Switch Market 2017 Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecasts to 2022 Examined in new Market Research Report
Global Membrane Switch Market 2016-2022
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The MRS Research Group Global Membrane Switch Market 2017-2022 report by QY Research offers a comprehensive assessment of the Membrane Switch market and consists of historical data, scope, significant approaches, and statistical data of the global market. Besides these, it also includes anticipated facts that are assessed with the aid of an appropriate set of postulations and techniques. The MRS Research Group report by QY Research brings to light the comprehensive study and factual information of Membrane Switch market. The report also provides the global market segmentation based on applications, end-users, technology, and geography.Read Complete Report @The report includes rigorous data, in-depth analysis in two ways, namely, quantitative and qualitative, industry professionals inputs and data given by the industry members and industry analysts involved in the complete value cycle. The report features thorough study of important market and their current trends, coupled with respective market segments. Information about the numerous factors and their influence on the global market and its segments is also mentioned in the reportGlobal Market 2016 Split by Manufactures, this report focuses on sales, consumption, market share and growth rate of Global Membrane Switch Market in each manufacture, can be divided intoMolexHuman E&CXYMOXDouglas CorporationFujikuraDanielsonDyna-Graphics CorporationSytekYou-Eal CorporationSensigraphicsBUTLER , etc.Get Free Sample Report : @The report emphasizes on the regional market, the keyplayers in the market, and the various market segments with an in-depth analysis on different divisions and their applications. The report offers inclusive data on the respective segments of the Global Membrane Switch Market 2016-2022 market.The research report provides an in-depth systematic study of the Membrane Switch market, covering key areas such as future prospects of the market, growth drivers, market restraints,Size, Share, Trends, Demand, Supply, Application, Segmentation, Opportunity, Market Development, production, capacity utilization, supply, Analysis and Forecast by 2022.Split by product type, with production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, can be divided intoPVC Membrane SwitchPC Membrane SwitchPET Membrane Switch, etc.Send us Enquiry Before Purchasing Research Report @Split by application, this report focuses on consumption, market share and growth rate of Membrane Switch in each application, can be divided intoMedical EquipmentIndustrial Control Equipment EquipmentRetail EquipmentHousehold AppliancesConsumer Products, etc,MRS Research Group provides a range of marketing and business research solutions designed for our clients specific needs based on our expert resources. The business scopes of Prof Research cover more than 30 industries including energy, new materials, transportation, daily consumer goods, chemicals, etc. We provide our clients with one-stop solution for all the research requirements.Joel John3422 SW 15 Street,Suit #8138Deerfield Beach,Florida 33442United StatesToll Free : +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-386-310-3803Email: sales@mrsresearchgroup.com
Underfill Material Market - Industry Shares, Market Strategies And Key Players
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Global Underfill Material Market: SnapshotThe Underfill Material Market: Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 20162024, report provides forecast and analysis of the underfill material market on the global and regional level. The primary objective of the report is to identify opportunities in the market and present updates as well as insights pertaining to various segments of the global underfill material market. The study provides historic data of 2015 along with forecast from 2016 to 2024 based on volume (kg) and revenue (US$ Mn). It includes drivers, restraints and the ongoing trend of the underfill material market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. The underfill material report also comprises the study of opportunities available in the market for underfill material on the global and regional level. It includes value chain analysis with list of underfill material suppliers and end users.Browse Market Research Report @In order to provide the users of this report with comprehensive view of underfill materail market, we have included detailed competitiveness analysis and company players of the industry. The competitive dashboard provides detailed comparison of underfill material producer on parameters such as companys revenue, employee strength, unique selling propositions and key strategic developments. The study of underfill material market encompasses market attractiveness analysis, by product type, application type and by geographic region.Global Underfill Material Market: ScopeMarket statistics have been estimated based on average consumption and weighted average pricing of product type in underfill material market and the revenue is derived through regional pricing trends. Market size and forecast for each segment have been provided in the context of global and regional markets. The underfill material market has been analyzed based on expected demand. Prices considered for the calculation of revenue are average regional prices obtained through primary quotes from numerous underfill material producers, suppliers, and distributors.Global Underfill Material Market: SegmentationAll key end users have been considered and potential applications have been estimated on the basis of secondary sources and feedback from primary respondents. Regional demand patterns have been considered while estimating the market for various end users of underfill material in different regions. Top-down approach has been used to estimate the underfill material market by regions. Market numbers for global product type and application segments have been derived using the bottom-up approach, which is cumulative of each regions demand. The market of underfill material has been forecast based on constant currency rates.A number of primary and secondary sources were consulted during the course of the study of underfill material market. Secondary sources include Factiva, World Bank, SEMI, The Semiconductor Industry Association, World Semiconductor Trade Statistics, Hoovers, and companys annual report and publications.For more information on this report, fill the form @The report begins with an overview of the global underfill material market, evaluating market performance in terms of revenue, key trends, drivers, and restraints witnessed in the global market. Impact analysis of the key growth drivers and restraints based on the weighted average model is also included in the report.Key Players Mentioned in this Report are:The report provides detailed competitive outlook including company profiles of key participants operating in the global market. Some of the key players in the global underfill material market are Henkel AG & Co. KgaA, H.B. Fuller, NAMICS Corporation, Epoxy Technology Inc, Yincae Advanced Material, LLC, Master Bond Inc, Zymet Inc, AIM Metals & Alloys LP, Won Chemicals Co. Ltd.About TMRTMR is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Global Pyridine Market to Register US$ 1,741.4 Million by 2025
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According to a new market report published by Persistence Market Research, titled Global Market Study on Pyridine: Increasing Demand for Synthetic Pyridine to Drive Growth During Forecast Period 2015 -2025 , the global pyridine market is estimated to reach US$ 1,741.4 Mn by 2025 from US$ 786.4 Mn in 2015.A sample of this report is available upon request:Pyridine is a toxic and soluble flammable liquid base with a distinct, strong odor. It is often considered the parent compound of several naturally occurring organic compounds. It is the preferred choice as a precursor to agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. Initially, pyridine was extracted from coal tar or obtained as a by-product of coal gasification. The process was very expensive and inefficient as coal tar constituted only 0.10.2% of pyridine after extraction. Currently, pyridine and its derivatives are produced synthetically. The most commonly used reactions for pyridine synthesis are Chichibabin synthesis, Bonnemann cyclization, and Cobalt-catalyzed alkyne-nitrile cyclotrimerization, etc.By region, the market in Asia Pacific has been estimated to account for 51.6% volume share of the overall pyridine market by 2015 end, followed by Europe and North America. Due to increase in usage of pyridine and its derivatives in agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals segments in Asia Pacific, the pyridine market in the region is projected to expand at a higher than average CAGR of 9.9% over 20152025 in terms of revenue. The U.S. pyridine market, which has been estimated to account for 89.5% revenue share of the overall market in North America by 2015 end, is expected to be driven by increasing adoption of pyridine and its derivatives in chemicals and pharmaceuticals segments. The pyridine market in the Middle East & Africa is estimated to register increased revenue due to a growth of pharmaceuticals and chemicals segments in the region. Europe market is anticipated to witness lower revenue growth in the coming years as compared to other regions due to the economic downturn in the region.Globally, pyridine N-oxide segment volume is estimated to expand at a lower than average CAGR of 7.4% over 20152025. Demand for 2-Methyl-5-Ethylpyridine (MEP) and gamma-picoline is expected grow significantly due to increasing application of these product types in chemicals segment. Alpha picoline finds wide application as a solvent in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food industries. The segment is projected to exhibit moderate growth over the forecast period. Key growth contributor for alpha picoline segment is 2-vinylpyridine, which is used as a raw material for styrene-butadiene-2-vinylpyridine terpolymer latexes (SBV latexes). Beta picoline is used to produce Vitamin B3. In terms of value, beta picoline segment is projected to experience significant growth rate over the forecast period. This is mainly attributed to rising demand for niacin in developing regions such as APAC and Middle East & Africa.Browse Full Report summary and to request sample report and table of content @Asia Pacific is the most attractive region in terms of CAGR and market share in the global pyridine market. India has been estimated to account for 24.4 % of the total APAC pyridine market by 2015 end due to expected increase in domestic pyridine production by 40%. In terms of value, gamma-picoline segment is expected to experience the highest growth rate during the forecast period in the Asia Pacific market. The Middle East & Africa accounts for the smallest market share. However, it is expected to expand at a CAGR of 9.9% in terms of value over the forecast period. Food segment is expected to expand at the highest CAGR in terms of volume during the forecast period in the Middle East & Africa market. Pyridine manufacturers are strengthening their presence in the regulated markets of Japan, North America and Europe as well as in key emerging markets. They are also focusing on local tie-ups and out-licensing of local companies in order to strengthen their regional presence.To Buy Full Report for a Single User:About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Persistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd.305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA - Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.com
Industrial IoT Platform Market is Expected to Grow at a CAGR of 23% by 2022
Industrial IoT Platform Market
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Market Research Future announced the publication of half cooked research report on Industrial IoT Platform Market. The global market for Industrial IoT Platform is majorly driven by factors such increasing need of efficient manufacturing process and high adoption of automation.Taste the market data and market information presented through more than 25 market data tables and 25 figures spread over 110 numbers of pages of the project report. Avail the in-depth table of content TOC & market synopsis on Industrial IoT Platform Market Research Report - Forecast 2022.Market Highlights:Today, Companies are transformation themselves and their business process to extract value from their traditional industrial process by taking the advantage from rapid explosion of ultra-low cost connectivity, and rapid explosion of sensors. These value can produce business outcome the customers and can be very helpful to produce incremental revenue for the company. Today, customers are not only expecting best in class physical products from manufacturers but also looking for the ways by which they can drive increased level of productivity.The market of IoT platform is expected to reach market size of one billion by the end of year 2020 and industrial IoT platform is one of the major market share holder. Factor such as high efficiency, real time monitoring of machineries, increased revenue and high output is driving the market of industrial IoT whereas there are various factors including price and technical knowledge which is likely to hamper the market growth.Request a Sample Copy @The industrial IoT platforms are useful in various industries but the market is dominated by manufacturing industry. By connecting the localized systems with network and sensors, the monitoring of process becomes very easy. Connected sensors also generates lots of data which can be analyzed to find of the probability of breakdown and efficiency of machineries.For the purpose of this study, the market of Industrial IoT Platform has been segmented on the basis of components, application, verticals and region. The component includes-hardware which further has been segmented into sensors, cameras, processing units among others and software. By Application the market has been segmented as asset management, remote monitoring, and network system management among others. Further the market has been segmented into verticals which includes- manufacturing, power and utilities, aviation, oil and gas among others.Key Players of Industrial IoT Platform Market: Microsoft Inc. (U.S.) NEC Corporation (Japan) PTC (U.S.) International Business Machines Corporation (U.S.) General Electric Corporation (U.S.) Fujitsu (Japan) Siemens AG (Germany) SAP SE (Germany) Hitachi Insight Group (U.S.) Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. (China)Market Research Future Analysis:The Global Industrial IoT Platform Market will grow exponentially during the forecast period. High efficiency and managed business process are some of the factors which is forcing the manufacturers to opt for IoT platform. Sensors such as temperature gives the exact information about the machineries, smart cameras are capable of finding any errors in the process and smart technology can rectify the errors without human interference. IoT also helps in making the industrial process more intelligent which leads to very low wastage of raw material. This is also one of the major market growth because low wastage of any manufacturing unit is directly associated with high efficiency. By region, Asia-Pacific is dominating the market of industrial IoT due to the rich presence of manufacturing industries in China, Japan and South Korea whereas North America stands as second biggest market followed by Europe.Brief TOC for Industrial IoT Platform Market:1. Executive Summary2. Research Methodology2.1 Scope of the study2.1.1 Definition2.1.2 Research Objective2.1.3 Assumptions2.1.4 Limitations2.2 Research Process2.2.1 Primary Research2.2.2 Secondary Research2.3 Market size Estimation2.4 Forecast Model3. Market Dynamics3.1 Market Drivers3.2 Market Inhibitors3.3 Value Chain Analysis3.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis4. Global Industrial IoT Platform Market, by Component4.1 Introduction4.2 Hardware4.2.1 Sensors4.2.2 Cameras4.2.3 Processing Units4.2.4 Others4.3 Software5. Global Industrial IoT Platform Market, By Application5.1 Introduction5.2 Asset Management5.3 Remote Monitoring5.4 Network System Management5.5 OthersContinueAccess Report Details @Intended Audience: Software Development companies Application development companies Companies dealing with IOT Sensor Manufacturers Electronic Manufacturing Companies and Suppliers Research Institutions GovernmentAbout Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by Components, Application, Technologies and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Akash AnandMarket Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Electric Guitars Market - Gibson Les Paul And The Fender Stratocaster Design Providing An Immense Boost
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Global Electric Guitars Market: OverviewElectric guitars are a type of guitars in which strumming the strings themselves is not the primary source of the sound. Rather, the vibrations caused by the movement of the strings are captured and magnified electronically in order to produce a louder output. The sound of an electric guitar can also be electrically modified, since an electrical representation of the vibration of the string is produced in electric guitars. This can then be modulated with the help of dials and other controls on the electric guitar as well as pedals. This is the primary factor distinguishing electric guitars from acoustic guitars; the sound produced by the latter comes directly from the vibration of the strings and thus cant be modulated electronically.The increasing interest held by the global population in music is a major driver for the global electric guitars market. Electric guitars are essential in popular genres of music such as rock and metal. Due to the popularity of these genres, the number of individuals attempting to learn to play the guitar is increasing. This is the prime driver for the global electric guitars market.Browse Market Research Report @The report examines the historical trajectory of the global electric guitars market and presents information detailing its development up to the base year. Further, detailed analysis of the current market figures is presented along with forecasts for the markets growth in the coming years. The report uses industry-standard analytical tools and databases to gain accurate information and precise analytical insights. The major segments of the global electric guitars market and the key players operating in it are also profiled in the report to provide a comprehensive coverage of the market.Global Electric Guitars Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe increasing disposable income of individuals in developing economies is allowing them to indulge in hobbies such as music. This is a major driver for the global electric guitars market. The continued popularity of rock music is another influential factor driving the global electric guitars market, as the two are intricately connected in the eyes of the masses. The increasing number of rock bands also bodes well for the global electric guitars market.On the other hand, electrical guitars can be too expensive for most amateurs. An important reason for this is that, unlike acoustic guitars, electric guitars need an amplifier. This is a major restraint on the global electric guitars market, particularly in developing countries. The increasing popularity of acoustic guitars has also checked the electric guitars market, as acoustic guitars are much cheaper than electric guitars and require less maintenance. However, advanced guitar playing techniques are easier to perform on electric guitars, since they have softer strings than acoustic guitars and no frets.Global Electric Guitars Market: Geographical OverviewThe global electric guitars market is dominated by North America due to the high interest in rock music, the high disposable income of the population, and the high number of rock bands in the region. The U.S. has a close relationship with the development of the global electric guitars market, with two of the most popular electric guitar designs the Gibson Les Paul and the Fender Stratocaster being designed in the U.S. The U.S. was also where rock and roll music began, providing an immense boost to the global electric guitars market.Global Electric Guitars Market: Vendor LandscapeMajor companies in the global electric guitars market include Gibson Guitar Corporation, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, and Paul Reed Smith Guitars Ltd. The global electric guitars market is highly competitive, with frequent technological advancements and changes in consumer preference making it hard for companies to maintain a competitive edge.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report @The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Transparency Market Research90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Smart Battery Market - Industry Giants Have Been Increasingly Focused On The Manufacturing Of Lithium Ion Batteries
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Global Market: OverviewThe smart battery market is poised for considerable growth in the coming years, riding on the rising demand and usage of smart electronics such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and cameras. Technological advancements aimed at improving the efficiency of batteries used in various end uses have played a significant role in the development of this market.The global market for smart batteries has been studied based on type of battery, application, and geography. By battery type, the market includes nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), lead acid, nickel cadmium (NiCd), lithium ion, alkaline, zinc carbon, and lithium ion polymer. The key applications of smart batteries are biomedical devices, industrial, consumer electronics, automobiles, and military and defense.Obtain Report Details @The report on the worldwide market for smart batteries offers a detailed assessment of the global scenario, also shedding light on the key regional segments. The prominent factors influencing its growth have been identified and analyzed and sharp inputs on how to overcome the major challenges have also been highlighted. The various regulatory factors at play have been taken into consideration, offering recommendations on how to capitalize on them.Global Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe power generation sector contributes significantly to the global carbon emission and as a result, there is a growing need to develop energy-efficient products that will help minimize the carbon footprint. Growing consumer awareness regarding this need has boosted the uptake of smart batteries, supported by favorable government regulations. The smart battery market is also fueled by the soaring popularity of the internet of things (IoT) and the rising consumption of battery-enabled consumer electronic devices.In contrast, certain compatibility hurdles and the need for frequent calibrations pose a challenge to the smart battery market. Moreover, the high cost of smart batteries in comparison to conventional ones acts as a major restraint on the market, resulting in poor demand especially in low-income countries. The high cost of smart batteries is owing to the fact that they require a special charger.However, persistent research and development efforts are being made in order to maintain the cost of production and help steady the demand.Global Market: Regional OutlookFrom a geographical point of view, the global market for smart batteries comprises North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Rest of the World. Asia Pacific is one of the most prominent markets for smart batteries and the rapid growth of this market can be attributed to a booming consumer electronics industry and the soaring presence of small and large manufacturers, especially in South Korea and Japan. The demand for lithium ion batteries comes on the heels of the growing need to curb automotive emissions by gradually replacing lead acid batteries.The Latin America smart battery market is also poised for significant expansion thanks to rapid industrialization in various economies of the region and the increasing usage of these batteries in power tools, material handling systems, and UPS devices.Companies Mentioned in the ReportSealed Energy Systems, Accutronics Ltd., Rose Electronics Distributing Company, Inc., ICCNexergy, Trojan Battery Company, Epec, LLC, Cell-Con, Inc., Cadex Electronics, Inc., and Inspired Energy, Inc. are some of the leading players competing in the global smart battery market.For more information on this report, fill the form @It has been observed that industry giants have been increasingly focused on the manufacturing of lithium ion batteries owing to the immense potential they present in the electric vehicle as well as consumer electronics markets. Companies have also been investing heavily in improving and expanding their production capacities so as to sustain themselves in the growing market.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Transparency Market Research90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Blue-veined Cheese Market - The Biggest Trends to Watch out for 2017-2027
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Blue-Veined Cheese: OverviewCheese, originated in southern Italy, a soft dairy product formed by coagulations of the milk protein is a source of Vitamins, Proteins, and Minerals. Blue-veined Cheese has a range of textures, colors, types, flavors and is widely used all over the world. Milk from the sources such as cow, goat, sheep, reindeer, and yak which are ripened with penicillium mold forms Blue-veined cheese. It has characterized features like off white color cheese with green, gray, blue or black spots or veins all over it. The Blue-veined cheese has a tangy flavor with a smooth, soft and creamy texture. Thus Blue-veined cheese does not belong to the vegetarian group.Obtain Report Details:Blue-Veined Cheese: Drivers and RestraintsBlue veined cheese has a tangy flavor and has various health benefits. This is the main driving force in the Cheese Market. Increasing modernization of food habits, triggered demand for fast food, health awareness of dairy products, technological advancement in milk products are some of the factors which are promoting the growth of Blue-veined cheese market. Blue-veined cheese is an excellent source of desired nutrients and lowers health risk. It contains vitamins, nutrients, Proteins and many such factors which boost memory and immunity system, thereby driving the growth of the market. Moreover, it has other health benefits in weight Loss, Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Dental Health, Anti-Cellulite, and Anti-Inflammatory.Moreover, the factors such as increasing cost of milk and dairy products and high fat content in this cheese, are hampering the growth of the market.Blue-veined cheese: Market SegmentationBased on product types, blue-veined cheese market is segmented into:Gorgonzola CheeseRoquefort CheeseStilton CheeseCashel BlueDanabluDanish Blue cheeseOtherMake an Enquiry@Based on production types, blue veined cheese segmented into:Processed CheeseNatural CheeseBased on sources, Blue-veined cheese is segmented into:CowGoatSheepReindeerYakBased on textures, blue veined cheese is segmented into:Hard CheeseSemi Hard CheeseSemi-Soft CheeseSoft CheeseBased on Distribution Channels, blue-veined cheese is segmented into:ManufacturerRetail ShopsSpecialty ShopsWholesalersOnline shopsPortalsBlue-veined cheese: Segment OverviewBlue-veined cheese has the accountable share in the cheese market and is segmented in various above categories. The Majority of the Blue-veined cheese is produced by the cow milk. Other sources like sheep, goat, reindeer, yak has the comparatively little share in the production. Depending upon various categories like, production process where blue-veined cheese is produced by enzymes, additives, fresh milk or by bacterial growth. It is available in various shapes and sizes such as pouch, packets, cans, sticks, slices. Various categories in which blue-veined cheese can be used are bakeries, food processing, pizzas, burgers, fast food outlets etc. Considering geographical region, Western Europe- Germany, France, and Italy etc. has a greater share in production and consumption of this cheese.Blue-veined cheese: Regional OverviewThe global Blue-veined cheese market consists of into seven regions, namely Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa. Western Europe, in terms of revenue generation for this dairy product, is the market leader with Germany having significantly growing share in the production of blue-veined cheese. Other share for the production of Blue-veined cheese in the world are from North America and Eastern Europe. Major importers include Japan, North America, Eastern America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific[6][7][8].Asia-Pacific is emerging as a huge market for the cheese market in the forecasting period focusing majorly on India and China. It has attributed the significant demand for the blue-veined cheese due to changing food habits.Blue-Veined Cheese: Market PlayersFew Market players of the Blue-veined cheese market are ARLA Foods, Fonterra Co-operative Group, Shafts Cheese Company, LLC, WAIMATA CHEESE COMPANY, The Isle of Wight Cheese Company Ltd, Saputo Cheese USA Inc., Grafton Village Cheese, Cowgirl Creamery, Vermont Shepherd LLC, and Willow Hill Farm.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Medical Manifolds Market to Register Substantial Expansion by 2016 - 2024
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Manifolds are pipeline systems with several openings. Manifolds are specially fabricated structures wherein two or more cylinders are connected to a single pipeline to increase the availability of gas at the source. Medical manifolds offer the function of reducing the pressure from cylinders with high pressure to the required pressure, which is feasible to use in the hospital pipeline. In hospitals, medical gases are largely used to provide long-term support to patients in intensive care units (ICUs). Medical air is used in hospitals in large quantities and hence, it is feasible to produce it on site, rather than storing it in gas cylinders. Medical gas supply in a hospital needs to fulfill the stringent requirements of the installation standards and safety of all patients in the hospital. The need for medical manifolds primarily arises from strict rules and requirements for the medical gas supply systems. For instance, in July 2012, the U.S. Congress passed a bill putting into effect the Food & Drug Safety & Innovation Act. This act provides selected gases as approved medications for common medical gas mixtures; provides manufacturers with the protection of their intellectual property rights for new products; and establishes a certification process for medical gas production. These factors serve as a driver for the market.Browse Market Research Report @Increasing awareness regarding the medical gas safety amongst manufacturers and consumers is a major factor that drives the global medical manifolds market. Growth of the health care infrastructure has led to rise in the number of hospitals, which acts as a driver for the global medical manifolds market. In addition, the establishment of industry-friendly associations such as Medical Gas Association (MGA), Compressed Gas Association (CGA), and Gases & Welding Distributors Association (GAWDA) is fueling the market. Constant efforts made by the members of CGA and GAWDA have rendered the actualization of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Safety and Innovation Act. These associations help in chalking out strategies that would ultimately help the market thrive and flourish. Therefore, establishment of such associations acts as a driver for the market.The global medical manifolds market has been segmented by product type and geography. In terms of product, the medical manifolds market has been categorized into simplex manifold systems, cradle pack manifolds, dual manifold systems, semi-automatic manifold systems, automatic manifold systems, digital automatic manifold systems, and others.Based on the region, the global fermented ingredients market has been segmented into: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America accounts for a significant share of the global market for medical manifolds, owing to presence of industry-friendly organizations such as CGA and GAWDA. These associations consist of industry experts working in reputed organizations. The members of these associations work continuously to make value additions to the market by understanding the market trends and implementing the policies that eventually work out in favour of the market. Europe is considered to be the second largest market for medical manifolds, due to enhanced health care processes and growing health concerns in the region. Moreover, rising geriatric population with the need for hospitalization augments the market in the region. Major factors that would drive the market in Asia Pacific include rapid development of health care infrastructure and presence of large population in the region. High prevalence of pulmonary diseases and emergency medical conditions provides countries such as India and China with multiple untapped opportunities. Latin American countries such as Mexico and Brazil are expected to have considerable growth potential for the medical manifolds market due to evolving health care infrastructure, and increasing medical expenditure.For more information on this report, fill the form @Major players operating in the global market for medical manifolds include Praxair, Inc., BeaconMedaes LLC, Merit Medical Systems, Inc., Smiths Group plc, Dragerwerk AG & Co. KGaA, Pattons Medical, Genstar Technologies, and Gascon Systems Pty Ltd.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Spine Implant Industry Bolstering the Growth of Market through 2021
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Global Spine Implant Market: OverviewThe current development of bio-resorbable implants that automatically leave the body as the patient recovers is projected to speed up the expansion of the spine implant market. Spinal implants are used to correct deformities, strengthen the spine, and facilitate fusion. Some of the major conditions that require spine implants are chronic degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, traumatic fracture, and other forms of spinal instabilities.Browse Market Research Report @The report carries out an in-depth analysis of the major drivers, restraints, trends, opportunities, and segments of the global spine implant market. The key factors of the global spine implant market such as value chain analysis, competitive landscape, Porters five force analysis, market attractiveness, market forecast, and supply and demand ratio have been thoroughly dealt with in the report. The report also sheds light on the market shares held by the leading firms, in addition to a description of their product portfolios and major business strategies.Global Spine Implant Market: Drivers and RestraintsThe key factors aiding the growth of the global market for spine implants are the rise in the number of spinal injuries and disorders and technological advancements in the field of spine implants. Minimally invasive surgeries have been witnessing high demand due to quicker recovery and lesser discomfort. This will prove to be another key growth driver of the market.The number of geriatric and obese population has been escalating, providing significant growth opportunities to the market. The increasing prevalence of postural defects, lack of physical exercise, and high incidence of obesity are increasingly affecting the spinal cord, leading to numerous spinal problems. Therefore, the global market for spine implants will witness an upsurge, growing with a steady CAGR during the forecast period.On the contrary, factors such as tedious approval procedures, high costs of treatments, absence of awareness about these procedures among patients and physicians, and uncertain reimbursements are some of the chief challenges faced by the global spine implant market. However, the introduction of image-based spinal navigation technology, along with the advancements in the field of titanium biologics will present considerable opportunities.The market can be segmented on the basis of product, type, technology and region.Global Spine Implant Market: Regional OutlookThe global market for spine implants can be segmented to include North America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Latin America, and Europe. North America is likely to be the leading regional segment, accounting for the largest share in the overall market. The prominence of this region can be attributed to technological developments, government funds, extensive R&D activities, and the rise of innovative treatment procedures. The U.S. will be at the headmost position in this region.Asia Pacific is a budding market with great potential owing to the presence of a large patient population, widespread adoption of sedentary lifestyles, increased healthcare expenditure, rising awareness about the availability of spine implants, beneficial government policies, and rising per capita incomes of people. Although the spine implant markets in India and China are growing at a rapid rate, Japan is expected to emerge with lucrative opportunities on account of its highly skilled surgeons, attractive market economics, and established regulatory systems.For more information on this report, fill the form @Companies Mentioned in the ReportSome of the major companies operating in the global market for spine implants are Aesculap Implant Systems, Ulrich Medicals, Titan Spine, Stryker, Medtronic, Zimmer Biomet Corporation, and DePuy Synthes.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Latest Report on Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Market Size, Segmentation, Regulations and Key Country Analysis to 2025
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Market -Market Size, Segmentation, Regulations and Key Country Analysis to 2025" to its huge collection of research reports."Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Market -Market Size, Segmentation, Regulations and Key Country Analysis to 2025", the latest report from industry analysis specialist GlobalData, offers comprehensive information and analysis of the global combined heat and power market.The report provides a clear overview of and detailed insight into the global CHP market. It provides data covering historic and forecast market size, market segmentation and installed capacity globally, and in eleven key CHP markets - US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, the UK, China, India, and Japan. The report analyzes key market aspects which determine CHP sector and provides information on installed capacity share by fuel, end-user, capacity range & prime mover and key regulations.The report uses data and information sourced from proprietary databases, primary and secondary research, and in-house analysis by GlobalDatas team of industry experts.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Scope- CHP market study at global level and at key country level, covering countries such as US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, the UK, China, India, and Japan- Historic and forecast data for cumulative and annual installed power capacity for CHP- Information on installed capacity share by fuel, prime mover, end-user and capacity range- Analysis on major market forces driving or restraining the growth of CHP market at global and regional level- Market size data at country and global level- Key policies and regulations supporting the development of CHP market at country levelReasons to buyThe report will allow you to -- Facilitate decision-making by providing historical and forecast data in CHP sector- Develop strategies based on developments in the CHP market- Maximize potential in the growth of the CHP market- Identify key partners and business-development avenues- Respond to your competitors business structure, strategies and prospectsTable Of Content1 Table of Contents1 Table of Contents 51.1 List of Tables 121.2 List of Figures 152 Introduction 192.1 Combined Heat and Power Technology 192.2 Technology Trends of Combined Heat and Power Technology 202.2.1 Trigeneration 202.2.2 Shift from Conventional Generation to Powerformers 202.2.3 New Combustion Technology 202.2.4 Heat Recovery Technologies 212.2.5 Waste Heat to Power Systems 212.3 Combined Heat and Power Prime Movers, Types, Pros/Cons 232.4 End-User Type 242.4.1 Institutional Users 242.4.2 Commercial Users 242.4.3 Industrial Users 242.4.4 Residential Users 242.5 Combined Heat and Power Supply Chain 242.6 GlobalData Report Guidance 253 Combined Heat and Power Market, Global 263.1 Combined Heat and Power Market, Global, Installed Capacity, 2006-2025 263.2 Combined Heat and Power Market, Global, Installed Capacity Share by Region, 2015 and 2025 293.3 Combined Heat and Power Market, Global, Market Size, 2006-2025 304 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas 324.1 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas, Installed Capacity 334.1.1 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas, Installed Capacity, 2006-2025 334.1.2 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas, Cumulative Installed Capacity by Country, 2006-2025 354.1.3 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas, Cumulative Installed Capacity Share by Country, 2015 and 2025 364.2 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas, Market Size, 2006-2025 384.3 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas, Market Forces Analysis 394.3.1 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas, Key Drivers 394.3.2 Combined Heat and Power Market, Americas, Key Restraints 415 Combined Heat and Power Market, US 425.1 Combined Heat and Power Market, US, Installed Capacity, 2006-2025 425.2 Combined Heat and Power Market, US, Market Segmentation 455.2.1 Combined Heat and Power Market, US, Share by End-User Segment, 2015 455.2.2 Combined Heat and Power Market, US, Share by Prime Mover, 2015 475.2.3 Combined Heat and Power Market, US, Share by Fuel Type, 2015 485.2.4 Combined Heat and Power Market, US, Share by Capacity Range, 2015 495.3 Combined Heat and Power Market, US, Market Size, 2006-2025 505.4 Combined Heat and Power Market, US, Regulations, 2015 515.4.1 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) or Recovery Act 515.4.2 Power Plant Improvement Initiative 525.4.3 Clean Energy Standard Act 525.4.4 Energy Policy Act 525.4.5 Clean Coal Power Initiative 546 Combined Heat and Power Market, Canada 556.1 Combined Heat and Power Market, Canada, Installed Capacity, 2006-2025 556.2 Combined Heat and Power Market, Canada, Market Segmentation 586.2.1 Combined Heat and Power Market, Canada, Share by End-User Segment, 2015 586.2.2 Combined Heat and Power Market, Canada, Share by Prime Mover, 2015 596.2.3 Combined Heat and Power Market, Canada, Regional Share, 2015 596.3 Combined Heat and Power Market, Canada, Market Size, 2006-2025 616.4 Combined Heat and Power Market, Canada, Regulations 636.4.1 ecoEnergy Technology Initiative 636.4.2 Accelerated Capital Cost Allowance 636.4.3 Clean Energy Fund: Renewable Energy and Clean Energy Systems Demonstration Projects 636.4.4 ecoEnergy for Biofuels 636.4.5 Renewable Energy Policy Framework, Nova Scotia 646.4.6 Renewable Energy Policy Framework, Ontario 64Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Global Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry Key Trends, Size, Growth, Shares And Forecast Research Report Outlook 2020
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry Outlook to 2020 - Capacity and Capital Expenditure Forecasts with Details of All Planned Pipelines" to its huge collection of research reports."Global Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry Outlook to 2020 - Capacity and Capital Expenditure Forecasts with Details of All Planned Pipelines" is a comprehensive report on major, trunk oil and gas planned pipelines industry in the world. The report provides planned pipeline details such as pipeline/pipeline system name, operator name, start year, start point, end point, length, capacity and diameter for all major, trunk crude oil, petroleum products and natural gas pipelines across the world by country and by region. The report also provides capital expenditure outlook at global as well as regional level by year and by key countries for planned oil and gas pipelines till 2020. The report also provides key country comparisons within a region and regional comparisons, based on contribution to total pipeline length (regional/global). Planned or proposed (new build) pipeline projects, as announced by various companies, have also been included in this report. Further the report also offers recent developments as well as latest tenders and contracts at regional level.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Scope- Updated information on all planned crude oil, petroleum products and natural gas pipelines in the world- Provides key details such as operator name, start year, start point, end point, location, length, diameter and capacity for all planned crude oil, petroleum products and natural gas pipelines to 2020- Provides capital expenditure outlook at global as well as regional level by year and by key countries for planned oil and gas pipelines till 2020- Latest developments and contracts related to oil and gas pipeline industry at the regional levelReasons to buy- Obtain the most up to date information available on all key planned transmission pipelines across the world- Identify growth segments and opportunities in the industry- Facilitate decision making on the basis of strong pipeline data- Assess your competitors pipeline network and its capacity- Develop strategies based on the latest developments in the industry- Information on latest tenders and contracts in the industry1 Table of Contents1 Table of Contents 21.1 List of Tables 81.2 List of Figures 212 Introduction 232.1 What Is This Report About? 232.2 Market Definition 233 Global Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry 253.1 Global Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Snapshot 253.2 Global Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Oil and Gas Pipelines 314 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry 364.1 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Snapshot 364.2 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Pipeline Lengths 414.3 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Cross Country Pipelines 494.4 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Nigeria 514.5 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Mozambique 524.6 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Algeria 534.7 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, South Sudan 564.8 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Uganda 574.9 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, South Africa 584.10 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Egypt 594.11 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Ethiopia 604.12 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Kenya 604.13 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Cameroon 614.14 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Niger 624.15 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Djibouti 624.16 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Namibia 634.17 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Ghana 644.18 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Tunisia 644.19 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Angola 654.20 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Madagascar 654.21 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Congo Republic 664.22 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Morocco 664.23 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Gabon 674.24 Africa Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Recent Developments, Tenders and Contracts 675 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry 815.1 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Snapshot 815.2 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Pipeline Lengths 865.3 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Cross Country Pipelines 1035.4 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, India 1055.5 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, China 1125.6 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Indonesia 1155.7 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Turkmenistan 1165.8 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Myanmar 1175.9 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Pakistan 1175.10 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Philippines 1195.11 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Bangladesh 1205.12 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Thailand 1225.13 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Kazakhstan 1235.14 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Malaysia 1255.15 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Vietnam 1265.16 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Japan 1275.17 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Sri Lanka 1285.18 Asia Planned Oil and Gas Pipelines Industry, Recent Developments, Tenders and Contracts 129Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Current and Projected Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market size in terms of volume and value 2016-2026
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Infectious disease diagnostics is process of identifying the presence of foreign antigen/organism with the help of various diagnostic tools. Infectious disease conditions are highly prevalent in under developed regions due to lack of awareness for personal hygiene, minimal healthcare expenditures and absence of efficient physician services. The high incidence of infectious diseases across emerging economies formulate a major share in overall market. This has grab the attention of in vitro diagnostic device manufactures to invest into emerging economies. These companies are taking efforts to develop and commercialize cost effective tools for the infectious disease diagnosis. Presently, the gold standard tests available for bacterial infections and sexually transmitted disease diagnosis have major market share. However, these test are expected to replace by molecular techniques in future.Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market: Drivers and RestraintsIncreasing incidence of infectious disease, growing adoption of advanced molecular techniques, and increasing interventions from government and non-profile organization to reduce infectious disease in underdeveloped regions are endorsing the growth of infectious disease diagnosis market. In addition, the companies operating in the disease diagnostic technologies are focusing on the development of novel diagnostics, which eventually provides pace to the market growth. However, lack of awareness for novel diagnostic solution, absence of compiled regulatory guidelines and lower positivity rates due to inferior laboratory conditions would hinder the growth of infectious disease diagnostics market.Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market: SegmentationThe global infectious disease diagnostics market is segmented based on, test type, techniques, application, and end users.Based on test type, the global infectious disease diagnostics market is segmented into the following:Laboratory testsBlood testUrine testSpinal tapThroat swabsStool testImaging testRequest Free Report Sample@X-rayComputed tomography (CT)Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)BiopsiesBased on techniques, the global infectious disease diagnostics market is segmented into the following:Conventional techniquesGram-stainPathogen culturingBiochemical techniquesELISAEnzyme immunoassayAgglutinationMolecular techniquesPCRNucleic acid sequence based amplificationBased on condition, the global infectious disease diagnostics market is segmented into the following:Bacterial InfectionViral InfectionCNS infectionsCardiovascular infectionFungal infectionGI infectionsSexually transmitted diseaseOtherBased on end use, the global infectious disease diagnostics market is segmented into the following:Diagnostic laboratoriesAcademic and medical institutesContract Research OrganizationHospitals and Surgical centersAmbulatory clinicsHome healthcareRequest For TOC@Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market: OverviewBy test type, the laboratory tests hold prominent share owing to its lower cost and easy availability. The emerging economies are the prime contributors of laboratory test segment especially in Asia-Pacific region, owing to high positivity rates. Laboratory test are first line of diagnostics referred by physicians which includes, blood test, urine test, spinal tap, throat swabs, and stool test. By techniques, the molecular diagnostic techniques such as PCR, and other nucleic acid amplification test would gain prominence in developed region. Based on condition, the bacterial infections, GI infections and Sexually transmitted disease have the largest share in infectious disease testing market, owing to high prevalence especially in emerging economies.Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market: Region-wise OutlookEmerging economies such as India and China are the primary consumer for infection disease testing market, owing to growing urbanization which leads to unhygienic environment in the cities. Countries belongs to Asia-Pacific and Africa regions have largest share in infectious disease diagnosis market due to high prevalence and incidence of infectious diseases especially sexually transmitted disease and bacterial infections. North America and European countries will ahead towards the adoption on high end infectious disease diagnostic with the help of molecular technologies. This increasing adoption of premium diagnostic techniques would sustain the market share of infectious disease diagnostics in developed region.Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market: Key PlayersKey companies operational in infectious diseases testing market are Becton Dickinson & Company, Cepheid Inc., Abbott Laboratories, BioMerieux, Hologic Inc., Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc., Danaher Corporation, Affymetrix, Alere Inc., and DiaSorin. These companies are majorly focusing on getting approval for the commercialiation of their novel product launch. Recently, in 2015, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. has got approval from US FDA for its BioPlex 2200 HIV Ag-Ab assay, which is used for HIV antigens and HIV antibodies.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Global PCB Design Software Industry Key Trends, Size, Growth, Shares And Forecast Research Report (2016-2020)
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global PCB Design Software Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020)" to its huge collection of research reports.The report titled Global PCB Design Software Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020) provides an in-depth analysis of the global PCB design software market by value and by segment. It provides an overview of the market and its segment with detailed analysis of market size and growth in terms of value and market share by region, segment and end-user.The report provides brief regional analysis of North America, Asia Pacific and Europe. Regional analysis includes market sizing and growth by value of each region. Share contribution of North America is highest in the global PCB design software market. Asia Pacific region is expected to grow at a high CAGR over the forecasted period.The report also assesses the 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 PCB design software 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.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The competition in the global PCB design software market is dominated by the four big players, Mentor Graphics, Cadence Design Systems, Zuken and Altium. These key players are profiled with their financial information and respective business strategies.Company CoverageMentor GraphicsCadence Design SystemsZukenAltiumRegion CoverageNorth AmericaAsia PacificEuropeExecutive SummarySoftware which is used by electrical engineers for designing of printed circuit board on a device, using various features is PCB design software. The main function of PCB software is to construct, inspect and test a designed circuit board before it can be printed physically on a polymer circuit board for use in the electronics sector. PCB design software is a kind of electronic design automation (EDA) tool. It is used to design layout of circuit. This software not only provides designing of the circuit but also validates the working of circuit.The global PCB design software market has increased with healthy growth rates during the years 2010-2015 and projections are made that the market would rise in the next four years i.e. 2016 to 2020 tremendously. The global PCB design software market is supported by various growth drivers such as increasing use in semiconductor industry, ease in designing of circuit which saves cost and time, rising use in electronic automotive devices and technological advancements etc. Yet the market faces some challenges such as use of pirated software, lack of skilled personnel and easy availability of open source PCB design software which are hampering the growth of the market.Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Greek Yogurt Market size and Key Trends in terms of volume and value 2016-2026
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Currently, greek yogurt is one of the most popular dairy products across the globe. Since greek yogurt is prepared through the straining process in order to separate the yogurt from the excess watery whey, it is also known as strained yogurt. The straining process makes the yogurt much thicker and creamier as compared to the regular or traditional yogurt. Greek yogurt contributes significantly to the growth of the global yogurt market. This is mainly attributed to its benefits such as higher protein and lower carbohydrates value as compare to traditional yogurt. Presently, greek yogurt is the highest growing product category among others including regular yogurt and yogurt drinks and second holds largest market share in terms of revenue, after traditional yogurt in the overall yogurt market. Demand for greek yogurt market is expected to increase in the next five to six forecast years owing to increasing lunch of new product with variety of flavours such as blueberry, vanilla, honey, chocolate and others.Global Greek Yogurt Market Segmentation:On the basis of product type, the global greek yogurt market is segmented into regular greek yogurt and non-fat greek yogurt, which is made from skim milk. Owing to increase the consumption of fat free and healthy products, non-fat greek yogurt products are gaining increasing popularity among the consumers.On the basis of distribution channel, the global greek yogurt market is segmented into supermarket/ hypermarket, grocery stores, convenience stores, and online retailing. In terms of revenue contribution, supermarket / hypermarket is expected to hold the highest share among all the other segments. However, online retail for global greek yogurt market witnesses steady growth in the forecasted years. This is attributed to increasing visibility of greek yogurt especially through online retailing.Request Free Report Sample@Geographically, global greek yogurt market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Japan, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan, and Middle East and Africa (MEA). North America and Western Europe are the two most lucrative market for greek yogurt in the world. In North America around half of the yogurt sold is greek yogurt.Global Greek Yogurt Market Dynamics:Increase in health consciousness among consumer has led to shift in eating preference towards healthy and nutrition food products. Availability of high nutritional value, which includes high protein, probiotics, vitamin such as vitamin D, B12, minerals such as potassium, iodine and calcium in greek yogurt is key factor that has led to increased adoption of greek yogurt among consumers and thus, fuelling the global greek yogurt market growth.Increasing application of greek yogurt is another growth driver for greek yogurt market since it is used for various medium in different countries. For instance, in Mediterranean region greek yogurt is mainly used as savoury but in the US, Mexico and Canada it is used as sweet snack with added fruits and flavours. Greek yogurt is also used in making many sauces for instance beef and lamb sauces. Greek yogurt is also used as a substitute products, for instance it is used as a substitute product for sour cream, cream cheese and butter. Thus, increasing its application among food products.Request For TOC@Among dairy products, greek yogurt is a good option for the consumers who have slight lactose intolerance, since in the production process much of the lactose is removed from the greek yogurt. This leads to drive the scope of greek yogurt among such consumers globally. However, high lactose intolerance is restrain for adoption of greek yogurt, thus restricting the market growth. There is a high opportunity to expand and increase the revenue for greek yogurt in the Asia Pacific excluding japan and Middle East countries.Global Greek Yogurt Market Key Players:Some of the key players operating in the global greek yogurt market are Chobani LLC, Stonyfield Farm, Inc, FAGE International S.A., GROUPE DANONE, and General Mills, Inc. Owing to have strong distribution and marketing strategies companies are able to meet the increasing demand for global greek yogurt.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Gamma Knife Market Share and Cost Analysis with Key Companys Profiles-Forecast to 2024
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Gamma knife is an advanced radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer in adults and children. Gamma knife is not really a knife; it is a beam of highly focused gamma rays, to precisely cut or destroy the tumor or damaged cells, generally in the brain, causing little or no damage to the surrounding normal cells. Gamma knife technology is used to treat medium brain tumors, trigeminal neuralgia, epilepsy, nerve disorders that causes chronic pain, abnormal blood vessel formations called arteriovenous malformations, and other neurological conditions. Patients with serious diseases can be treated with the help of this technology which is a noninvasive procedure and get cured in a few days with no long hospital stay, returning to normal life and activity promptly. Typically, gamma knife treatment is completed in a few hours with little or no side effects. According to Leksell Gamma Knife Society, gamma knife technology is universally preferred and no other radiosurgery system has greater clinical acceptance as gamma knife. Gamma knife radiosurgery is performed in leading hospitals around the world, with more than 70,000 patients treated every year. To treat with gamma knife technology the surgeon neither requires to make an incision in the scalp, nor an opening in the skull.Browse Market Research Report @The gamma knife market can be segmented by disease indication and geography. Based on disease indication, the market is classified into cancer, arteriovenous malformation (AVM), trigeminal neuralgia, essential tremor and others (epilepsy, Parkinsons disease etc.). Cancer holds the dominant share of the gamma knife market by disease indication, and its increasing prevalence is expected to boost the overall market. There are over 100 types of cancer. According to WHO, about 16% of the world population die because of cancer. In 2015, 8.8 million people died of cancer. This is expected to be the prominent driver for the gamma knife market.Geographically, the gamma knife market is classified into five regions, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America has the leading market share followed by the other developed region, Europe. The U.S. accounts for a major share of the global market. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2016, about 1,685,210 new cancer cases were diagnosed. Advanced technologies, high awareness levels, and high purchasing power in North America influenced the gamma knife technology market expansion significantly. However, the same factor of affordability has restrained the markets in developing regions. Despite this, the gamma knife market in Asia Pacific has shown significant increase in growth rate. Rising population, increase in disposable income, increase in the geriatric population, and increase in awareness levels are some key factors driving the Asia Pacific market. Due to these factors, the Asian market is observing a large number of new entrants compared to developed regions.Other factors that drive the gamma knife market are increasing prevalence of various types of cancer, increasing preference toward non- and minimally-invasive procedures, high adoption and acceptance in developed markets, high success rate of gamma knife procedure, innovations and developments in technology, and comprehensive health insurance cover for radio surgery procedures. The market is also experiencing certain restraints such as stiff competition among existing players, high cost of the procedure, low equipment availability, and lack of awareness about gamma knife therapy among the rural population in developing and underdeveloped economies.For more information on this report, fill the form @The major players in the gamma knife market include Elekta, Varian Medical Systems, Huiheng Medical, Inc., Nordion Inc., ET Medical Group, and American Shared Hospital Services.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Global Price Comparison Websites (PCW) Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020) | Now Available at Researchmoz.us
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global Price Comparison Websites (PCW) Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020)" to its huge collection of research reports.The report entitled Global Price Comparison Websites (PCW) Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020), provides analysis of the global price comparison website market, with detailed analysis of market size and growth, penetration, market share and economic impact of the industry. The report also provides the regional analysis of the price comparison website market of the UK, with analysis by value, segments, penetration, etc.Furthermore, the report also assesses the 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 price comparison website market has been forecasted for the years 2016-2020, taking into consideration the previous growth pattern, the growth drivers and the current and future trends.Majority of the market is concentrated in the UK and major companies in the market are also UK based. Gocompare, Moneysupermarket, uSwitch and Confused.com are key companies in the UK price comparison website market. The company profiling of these companies has been done in the report, which includes business overview, financial overview and respective business strategies of the companies.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Country CoverageUKCompany CoverageEsure Group Plc (Gocompare.com)MoneySuperMarket.com Group PlcZoopla Property Group (uSwitch)Admiral Group PLC (Confused.com)Executive SummaryA price comparison website is a search engine, which people use to compare the prices of different products. These websites are also called comparison shopping website, price analysis tool, comparison shopping agent, shopbot, etc. Along with prices, many other categories for comparing the products, such as features, quality, etc. are being added on these websites.Price comparison websites provide many benefits to both consumers and the suppliers. Consumers get convenience, increased choices, saving of time, etc., while suppliers are benefitted by increased visibility, new customers, etc.The price comparison websites can be segmented into Insurance, Energy and Others. Insurance segment includes motor insurance, home insurance, travel insurance, etc. Energy segment comprises of gas, electricity and others. Other products included in the market are broadband, mobiles, digital TV, etc.The price comparison website market is expected to increase at a significant growth rate during the forecasted period (2016-2020). The global price comparison website market is supported by various growth drivers, such as increase in smartphone users, increased internet penetration, increasing switching market, etc. Yet, the market faces certain challenges, such as issues related to reliability and trust, lack of knowledge, etc.Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Oncology Information System Market 2024; Important changes in market dynamics
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Oncology information system is an image and information management system that allows to check all parts of oncology care for patients. Oncology information system combines medical, surgical, and radiation oncology information into a comprehensive, oncology electronic medical record that allows to manage patient's details from start of the patients admission through diagnosis and follow-up details.The factors driving the growth of the oncology information system market are increase in technological adaption and technological advancement. Increase in health care infrastructure in developing nations, growth in prevalence of secondary tumor, and rise in incidence of cancer are the other factors anticipated to propel the growth of the oncology information system market during the forecast period. According to the National Cancer Institute, cancer is among the leading causes of death worldwide; in 2012, there were 14 million new cases and 8.2 million cancer-related deaths worldwide. However, lack of health care IT professionals and strict regulation are likely to restrict the growth of the oncology information system market.Obtain Report Details:According to a report by the American Cancer Society, 50% of men and 30% of women are estimated to develop cancer in some form or the other in their lifetime. Increase in amount of cancer patients is a major driver of the sales of the oncology information system market. Additionally, rise in amount of tobacco consumption and increase in amount of carcinogens present in the polluted air or in any other form are projected to drive the oncology information system market in the near future. Some of the factors driving the growth of the market are rising disposable income, which enables patients to avail expensive treatments, easily available medical insurance policies, and growing medical tourism activities. Heavy investments in R&D further act as an opportunity for the growth of the market since innovative and technologically advanced products always have the capability of substituting its predecessors.The oncology information system market has been segmented by product, application, end-user, and geography. Based on product, the oncology information system market is classified into patient information system, treatment planning system, consulting/optimization, implementation, maintenance, services, and others. Based on application, the market is segmented into care management, treatment management, and knowledge management. Based on end-user, the oncology information system market is segmented into hospital, government institution, research center, and others.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report:Geographically, the oncology information system market in segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America is expected to account for a large market share in terms of revenue, followed by Europe. The oncology information system market in North America is expected to grow due to technological advancement and increase in demand for advanced product. The growing need to implement advanced systems in the health care sector in the region and, at the same time, deliver quality care to patients are the factors likely to drive the market in the near future. Asia Pacific is expected to rise at a high CAGR owing to increase in adoption of technological advanced products, growth in disposable income, and rise in health care infrastructure in countries such as India, China, Australia, and other countries in the region. The Latin America oncology information system market is mainly driven by the increasing adoption of technological products in countries such as Brazil and Mexico. The Middle East & Africa oncology information system market is estimated to grow in the near future due to rise in incidence of cancer. According to World Health Organization, women in the African region had the highest incidence of cancer of the cervix uteri.Major players operating in this market include CureMD Healthcare, Varian Medical Systems, Inc., Flatiron Health, Inc., Epic Systems Corporation, Bogardus Medical Systems, Inc., Cerner Corporation, McKesson Corporation, Koninklijke Philips N.V., Elekta AB, and Accuray Inc.The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a U.S.-based provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact us:Transparency Market Research90 State Street,Suite 700,AlbanyNY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Global Remote Cardiac Monitoring Industry Key Trends, Size, Growth, Shares And Forecast Research Report (2016-2020)
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global Remote Cardiac Monitoring Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020)" to its huge collection of research reports.The report entitled Global Remote Cardiac Monitoring Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020) provides a detailed analysis of the global remote cardiac monitoring market with analysis of market size by value, volume, segments, etc.The report also includes a detailed regional analysis of the remote cardiac monitoring market of regions such as, US, Europe and Asia Pacific comprising of its market by value. Under competitive landscape, different players in the global remote cardiac monitoring market have been compared on the basis of their revenue and market capitalization.The report also assesses the key opportunities in the market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the growth of the industry. Growth of the global remote cardiac monitoring 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.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The competition in the global remote cardiac monitoring market is stiff and dominated by the big players. Medtronic Plc, Boston Scientific Corporation and Life Watch AG are some of the key players operating in the global remote cardiac monitoring market, whose company profiling is done in the report. In this segment of the report, business overview, financial overview and the business strategies of the companies are provided.Regional CoverageUSAEuropeAsia PacificCompany CoverageMedtronic PlcBoston Scientific CorporationLifeWatch AGExecutive SummaryRemote cardiac monitoring is the continuous monitoring of electrical activities of the heart, which takes place outside hospitals. The monitoring can also be done while the patient is doing the day to day activities. Devices like pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillator is placed with the patient through minimally invasive procedures and the transmission of data takes place via a transmitter which works in sync with the device.The global remote cardiac monitoring market is expected to grow at a healthy rate during the forecast period (2016-2020). The growth is expected on account of many factors, such as an increase in cardiovascular diseases, increasing incidence of obesity, less cost of remote monitoring and rising ageing population.However, the market also faces some challenges, which includes reimbursement issues and the risk of over treatment. Increasing health care expenditure, cardiomems heart failure monitoring system and telesense remote cardiac monitoring device are some of the latest trends in the remote cardiac monitoring market.Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Force Sensors Market Volume Analysis, Segments, Value Share and Key Trends 2016-2026
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Force sensors are also known as force transducers that converts an input mechanical force into an electrical output signal. It act as a force sensing resistor in an electric circuit. It has various benefits such as flexibility and ultra-thin sensor construction which leads to minimal interference in normal action of device and precise response. Depending upon the working and sensing method, variety of force sensors are available in the market.Force Sensor Market: Drivers and RestraintThe global force sensor market is expected to witness substantial growth over the period of forecast. Technological advancement, low manufacturing cost, increasing product demand, rise in the demand of industrial robots, advancement of medical devices with force sensing technology, innovations and development in the manufacturing are the few factors encouraging the growth of global force sensor market.On the other hand, factors which are restraining the global force sensor market are instability in the demand across various end-user industry and underdeveloped aftermarket sales channels.Force Sensor Market: SegmentationThe global force sensor market can be segmented into type, application and region. On the basis of type, the global force sensor market can be segmented into, optical force sensor, piezoresistive force sensor, capacitive force sensor, magnetic force sensor, ultrasonic force sensor, strain gauges, and electrochemical force sensorsRequest Free Report Sample@Sensors has become an essential part of any measurement and automation applications. Overall global sensor market is witnessing a trend of increasing sensor accuracy, reliability, response time, efficiency, communication capability and robustness encourages the demand for sensors across various applications. On the basis of application, the global force sensor market can be segmented into, medical & pharmaceutical sector, automotive, printing & packaging, consumer electronics, industrial (robotic & manufacturing), and aerospace & defence. Key developments in the prominent industries such as medical & pharmaceuticals, robotics, aerospace & defence, manufacturing and others is expected to encourage the growth of global force sensor market by 2025. Force sensors are used in manufacturing tools, transportation equipment, microelectronic packaging, transportation equipment etc. Force sensors can also be used in wireless inventory management system to improve order scheduling which helps in avoiding inventory stock-out issue.Force Sensor Market: Region wise outlookOn the basis of region, the global force sensor market can be seven regions which include North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Japan and Middle East & Africa. North America is dominating the global force sensor market due to high technological advancement and increasing adoption among various end-user applications. However, revenue contribution from Asia Pacific excluding Japan is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period.Request For TOC@Force Sensor Market: Key PlayersKey players in the global force sensor market are FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc., OMRON Corporation, Texas Instruments Incorporated are the top players are global force sensor market. Apart from them, various other players are existing in market such as TE Connectivity Ltd., Tekscan, Inc., ATI Industrial Automation, and Sensata Technologies, Inc. Key players are focusing on development of new technologies and new product launch. Merger and acquisition is another activity observed in the market by the market participants to increase their product portfolio and to grow the business. The growth in global force sensor market is also due to growing awareness about the potential use of force sensors in different electronic devices by the original equipment manufacturers. For example, in August 2015, Apple, Inc. posted a patent report, An Advanced Force Touch Patent for the iPad Surfaces in Europe to develop techniques to integrate the force sensors into the iPhone and iPad.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Virtual 3D Nanorobots Market 2025; Reporting and evaluation of recent industry developments
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Nanorobots are emerging technology in the field of medical science. Nanorobots involve the administration of tiny devices to the arteries used for diagnostic and treatment purpose. Nanorobots are mostly used for the neurology and oncology treatment. Currently, the application of nanorobot for medical science is limited; however, it is expected to make a great impact in the near future. Researchers demonstrated that nanorobots prevent side effects for cancer treatment caused due to chemotherapy and other biological therapies. Hence, virtual 3D nanorobots are projected to be a viable alternative for cancer treatment in the future. Although substantial breakthroughs have been made, there is still much work to be implemented before the concept becomes a reality. The medical applications of 3D nanorobot include dentistry, brain aneurysm, cancer detection and treatment, and gene therapy.Obtain Report Details:The global market for virtual 3D nanorobots has a substantial growth worldwide due to technological innovations, introduction of advanced medical equipment, and advancement of health care infrastructure in developed nations. Moreover, advances in mobile penetration, connectivity, and ICT services are estimated to further accentuate the market growth. Mobile access is becoming ubiquitous worldwide. Developed markets such as Australia, Korea, the U.S., the U.K., Sweden, and Germany already have mobile penetration greater than 100%. This offers significant growth opportunities in the market. Additionally, favorable government support, rise in health care infrastructure, and rapid technological innovations toward health care services accentuate growth of the market.The virtual 3D nanorobots market, with advancement in technology, in developing countries is anticipated to expand at a promising rate during the forecast period. According to the UN Telecommunication Unions (ITU) annual ICT report Measuring the Information Society 2011, the Republic of Korea is one of the worlds most technologically advanced economy for health care. Moreover, the mobile devices, if effectively leveraged, can help drive health care accessibility and affordability across the world. Therefore, rise in technological advancement and increase in efforts toward the development of innovative medical (mobile) technologies are expected to fuel demand for virtual 3D nanorobots for health care across the world.Geographically, the global virtual 3D nanorobots market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America (LATAM), and Middle East & Africa (MEA). North America accounted for a significantly large share of the global virtual 3D nanorobots market in 2014. The U.S. accounted for majority of the market share in the region. The virtual 3D nanorobots market offers immense growth potential in this region owing to timely technological upgrade, increase in awareness among patients, and continuous evolution of information technology. Countries in Western Europe (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) offer lucrative opportunities in the field of 3D nanorobot, majorly due to increase in implementation of technologically advanced devices and rise in government initiatives toward development of well-equipped health care centers. Moreover, Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa are expected to expand at a fast growth rate during the forecast period. Untapped opportunities, improvement in health care infrastructure, increase in awareness about available and innovative nanorobotics services, and favorable government initiatives are the major factors fueling the growth of the virtual 3D nanorobots market in these regions. Latin America majorly includes countries in Central and South America such as Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. Latin America is one of the lucrative markets for virtual 3D nanorobots. Brazil and Mexico are significantly large markets in the region.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report:Key players operating in the global virtual 3D nanorobots market include Zymergen, Gingko Bioworks, and Synthace.The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a U.S.-based provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact us:Transparency Market Research90 State Street,Suite 700,AlbanyNY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Hire packers and movers based on rates at thepackersmovers.com
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New Delhi, India - Thepackersmovers is an online directory for moving agencies that lets you hire reliable packers and movers in and around India. Recently it has come up with movers and packers in Mumbai rates. It provides the choicest of moving companies for customers to choose from. Shifting a new location is really a hard task. When it comes to move belongings it becomes truly stressful. This is why thepackersmovers.com brings professional packers and movers all over India.Equally stressful task is to find the reliable packers and movers in Pune (), Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and other parts where one wants to move out. Even the ones known for their services have poor reviews and feedbacks. They also perform poorly on quality standards. Their price range also crosses the customers budget when they hire them and get charged more and more. Even there are fraudulent packers and movers who do take advantage of customers. This is where thepackersmovers comes as the reliable directory having innumerable packers and movers handpicked and screened. Before listing on its website,makes sure every shifting company is checked and screened. They verify using a very strict procedure. They also provide unbiased reviews and feedbacks to help you find reliable ones. With easy search features and dedicated team, thepackersmovers.com brings in a change for people to hire packers and movers all over India.Services offered by thepackersmovers.com packers and movers in Mumbai () include home relocation, good shifting, car carriers, commercial moving and so on.With thepackersmovers booking a moving shifting company is just easier. You only need to search, compare and book as these processes just takes a few minutes to complete. Under one location you can find every information you need about the packer and mover you want to hire. Even you can compare and then come to the conclusion based on that.For all those who want to hire a trusted packing and moving service provider in India thepackersmovers is the best place to look at. It gives you myriad of choices and helps you find only the best one suiting your needs.Thepackersmovers.com is one of the best online directories to look for packing and moving service providers. The site has created a reputable status for itself in the industry. Since beginning it has been giving the best services around at most affordable prices. One can find each and every information needed for the packers and movers across all cities.Media Contact :-The Packers MoversMayur Vihar Phase 1, Pandav NagarPostal Code :- 110091City - DelhiCountry - IndiaEmail - info@thepackersmovers.com
Emerging Trends And Dynamics In The Transfusion Diagnostics Market Through 2016 - 2024
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Blood transfusion is a process of receiving blood products or blood into the circulatory system intravenously. Blood transfusion is used in different medical conditions for replacement of lost component in the blood. Earlier blood transfusion included whole blood; however, modern medical methods can use only a component of blood for transfusion. Blood transfusion is among the most common procedures used for patients in hospitals. Hence, it becomes imperative that clinicians have knowledge about the appropriate administration of blood products, along with the symptoms, signs, and transfusion reaction management. Different blood products that can be transfused in the human body are red blood cells, platelets, plasma, albumin, and immunoglobulin preparations.Browse Market Research Report @The blood transfusion process is as follows: blood sample is taken and sent to hospital laboratory where tests are performed to ensure that the donor blood is compatible with patient's blood. This process is called cross-matching. Risks associated with blood transfusion are viral infections, allergic reactions, fever, hemolytic reactions, and iron overload. Everything possible should be done to reduce these risks during blood transfusion. Hence, before blood transfusion, several steps are taken to ensure the quality of blood products, compatibility, and safety to the recipient. A definite diagnosis is required for both the donor and recipient blood. Red blood cells are the most common blood products to be transfused. One of the transfusion diagnostics incudes molecular blood group diagnostics. Molecular blood group diagnostic enables safer blood preservation and on-demand supply for patients who have antibodies against clinically relevant, rare or weak antigens. Blood group serology is another blood transfusion diagnostic used to avoid side effects caused due to administration of incorrect blood preservatives or immunizations.Based on type, the transfusion diagnostics market can be segmented into instruments, reagents and others. In terms of application, the market can be segmented into blood grouping, disease screening, and others. Based on distribution channel, the market can be segmented into hospitals, laboratories, blood banks, plasma fractionation facilities, military blood banks, and others. Blood banks and hospitals are the major segments of the transfusion diagnostics market.Increasing prevalence of diseases which require complete blood transfusion is one of the major drivers of the transfusion diagnostics market. Rising number of accidents due to road rash or other reasons which lead to blood loss is also likely to propel the market. Another factor driving the transfusion diagnostics market is the rising emergency situations for blood transfusions during surgical blood loss. Rising number of diseases due to improper blood transfusion without diagnosis of blood also fuels the growth of the transfusion diagnostics market. Alternative treatments and better techniques for blood transfusion are the major restraints of the transfusion diagnostics market. More advanced, efficient, and reliable transfusion diagnostic techniques are expected to create significant opportunities in the market.Geographically, the transfusion diagnostics market can be segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America accounted for the largest share of the blood transfusion diagnostics market owing to increasing health care awareness and technological advancement in the region. Europe is the second largest market for blood transfusion diagnostics due to large geriatric population in the region. Asia Pacific is the fastest growing market for blood transfusion diagnostics due to increasing adoption of improved health care technologies, emerging health care infrastructure, and rising accidents, diseases, and other emergency situations which require blood transfusion.For more information on this report, fill the form @Major players in the blood transfusion diagnostics market include Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Beckman Coulter, Quotient Limited, Novartis AG, Abbott Diagnostics, Diagast, Becton, Dickinson and Company, Immucor, Inc., BAG Health Care, DiaSorin, Fujirebio Diagnostics, Inc., Grifols, S.A., Hologic/Gen-Probe, Biokit, Bio-Rad Laboratories, and Quidel Corporation.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Womensdaycelebration.com: An absolute Space to Get Informed on International Womens Day
Womens Day
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Womensdaycelebration.com is an online informative website which has a plethora of information on International womens Day celebration and its significance. Womens Day is celebrated every year throughout the world to honour the velour of women.New Delhi, Delhi, India:International womens day came into being to encourage women in every field to come forward and help the humanity to make a wonderful society wherein every one can live with peace and serenity. Womens day is celebrated every year on 8th of March. We are here in the month of February and the womens day 2017 is about to enter the door.Womensdaycelebration.com is an extremely useful platform where one can find all the relevant information related to womens day celebration. With the approaching International Womens day the curiosity among the folks to explore more and more about the International womens day and the women around the world who, with their courage have set an example for the many coming generations.In an exclusive discussion, the spokesperson of the website proclaimed that, Womens day celebration that takes place around the world, is symptomatic of the awareness that the world has witnessed over few years. This day is the emblem of all the revolutions that led to realize what a woman is capable of. In order to expand the list of those who want to make a difference to the society by helping women to come forward and fight for their rights, we have added to the website all the relevant information on this day. Those who want to be informed on the same in the best possible way can visit the website.There is a wide range of pages on the website talking about the various facets of womens day celebration. Some of those pages on the website include Women's Day Messages, Womens Day Essay, UN Day for Women's Rights, Women's Day History, First Women's Day, Womens Day Speech and many more.Discussing further on the International womens day and various aspects of celebrating the day, the official representative said that, On the website, Womendaycelebration.com, we strive to provide all the related information to our readers in the best possible way. Not only one can learn about the History and significance of womens day celebration, but one can also find the zest of celebration of this day in various parts of the country. Besides, it contains womens day wishes and messages which people can send to the ladies in their life.In addition to the above mentioned pages on the website it also include several other which are Significance of Women's Day, Women's Day Story, UN Themes for Women's Day, International Women's Day, Rio Olympic 2016, Womens Day Wishes, Women's Day Quotes, Popular Sayings for Womens Day, Womens Day Greetings, Women's Day Poems, Women's Day Gifts, 50 Most Inspirational Women Worldwide and many more.Contact:About Us:Womensdaycelebaration.com is one of the most helpful informative websites which contains every bit of information on womens day. Any of the lifes big events or the celebrations is not complete until one knows enough about it. And, so to quench the thrust of those who have curiously working to acquire all the knowledge on women and the International womens day celebration, our diligent team has come up with the platform showcasing all the inimitable information on this day. Those who want to know more about the website can visit the website.New Delhi, India
Authorized Generics Market Segmentation and Analysis Research Report to 2024
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A generic drug is a duplicate copy of original branded drug, which has same dosage form, active pharma ingredients (API), strength, route of administration, and also same intended use as the branded one. Regulatory authorities and governments have mandated that an authorized generic drug has to medicinally correspond to the branded drug and sanctioned as an Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). An authorized generic is the branded companys individual product, but repackaged and marketed as generic drug either via subsidiary or third party. These are already approved as a New Drug Application by the FDA, only they are promoted via private label. The authorized generics market grew rapidly in the past few years as these provide consumers with branded quality drugs at generic prices. Presently, there is a growing trend of original maker giving approvals to a subsidiary or a private label distribution company to sell its brand name drug as a generic drug at a subsequently low price.Browse Market Research Report @An example of authorized generic drug is Azithromycin Pak which is sold under by the company name Greenstone. Pfizers original branded drug Z-pak was approved by the FDA. Before patent expiry of Z-pak, Pfizer allowed Greenstone to sell Z-pak using authorized generic name Azithromycin Pak. Greenstone is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pfizer.The global authorized generics market is expected to witness strong growth. Authorized generic drugs are priced at significantly discounted rate i.e. 50% to 70% as compared to branded counterparts. Additionally, many of the popular branded drugs of pharma companies are losing patent protection rights, which is also termed as patent cliffs. This would pave the way for entry of new complex generics in the market. These factors are likely to drive the authorized generics market in the near future. Other factors driving the market are health care plans by governments across the world, rapidly increasing cost of branded drugs, and aging populations. On the other hand, possibility of side effects, and lack of regulatory awareness about products and quality management are factors likely to restrain the global authorized generics market.The global authorized generics market can be classified based on product type, application, end-user, and region.In terms of product type, the global authorized generics market can be segmented into biosimilars, simple generic, super generic, and others. Based on applications the market can be classified into cardiovascular, anti-infective, anti-arthritis, central nervous system, anti-cancer, respiratory, and others.Geographically, the global authorized generics market can be divided into North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America accounted for the largest share of the market, primarily due to technological advancements, rise in demand for generic drugs, increase in overall cost of branded drugs, and presence of key players. Europe held a significant share of the market attributed to advancements in generic drugs, rise in various types of cancer, and blood related disorders. Asia Pacific, however, has been exhibiting high growth rate on account of growing demand for generic drugs, rise in geriatric population, increase in disposable income, and government initiatives to support generic drugs. Rapidly rising population in the region has increased demand for better health care and induced both private and government players to meet the demand. Developing economies such as India and China have also made a significant contribution to the rise of the global authorized generics market by focusing on establishing a better health care infrastructure.For more information on this report, fill the form @Key players in the market are Teva Pharmaceuticals, Sandoz, Allergan, Mylan, Sun Pharmaceuticals, and STADA Arzneimittel. Other prominent vendors in the market are Abbott, Amgen, Apotex, Aspen, AstraZeneca, Aurobindo Pharma, Baxter, Berlin-Chemie, Biocon, Biogen, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celltrion, Cipla, Coherus Biosciences, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Daiichi Sankyo, Eli Lilly and Company, Emcure Pharmaceuticals, Eurofarma Laboratories, Gedeon Richter, Gilead Sciences, and GlaxoSmithKline.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Endoscopic Vessel Harvesting System Market Global Industry Analysis, size, share and Forecast 2016-2026
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With the increasing rate of cardiovascular disease constant innovation and advancement in technology has become paramount. In the field of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) introduction of endoscopic vessel harvesting system market has open up newer opportunities for companies. Coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) is a procedure for restoring the blood supply to the heart muscle due to blockage or narrowing of one or more coronary arteries. Traditionally, the technique involved in harvesting procedure was open vein harvesting (OVH) which involved a single continuous skin incision. With the recent advancement in technology, the process is less invasive by endoscopic vessel harvesting (EVH) this technique reduces leg wound morbidity because of small incisions compared to open vein harvesting. Endoscope is a medical instrument used for capturing a picture inside a hollow area, which is connected to a video camera and inserted through a small incision that is made in the leg. The saphenous vein inside the leg is viewed by the endoscope and helps the surgeon in identifying and to remove the vein with minimal pain to the leg.According to Center of Disease Control and Prevention, around 3,95,000 CABG surgeries were performed in the United States in 2013. The endoscopic vessel harvesting system market is mainly driven by the incidence and prevalence rate of coronary diseases. Moreover due to benefits such as less invasive modality, including a lower infection rate, fewer wound complications, improved cosmesis, and greater patient satisfaction physicians and patients are opting for this treatment. High pool of geriatric population and awareness programs among surgeons will drive the endoscopic vessel harvesting system market. However, endoscopic vessel harvesting system market has some restraints, lack of skilled professionals in the developing countries and unstable reimbursement regulations are hampering the growth of endoscopic vessel harvesting system in developing countries. Apart from this the presence of alternative therapies may hinder the growth of the endoscopic vessel harvesting systems market.Request Free Report Sample@The Global endoscopic vessel harvesting system market is segmented on the basis of product type and regional presence:Segmentation based on product typeDisposableReusableGeographically the endoscopic vessel harvesting system market is segmented into five key regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and MEA region.CABG is most common type of heart surgery performed in North America region as per University of Michigan. North America followed by Europe are currently leading in the endoscopic vessel harvesting system market as high incidence of coronary disease due to sedentary lifestyle pattern adopted in these region and availability of all the types of minimally invasive CABG surgeries. The endoscopic vessel harvesting system market in Asia Pacific is expected to deliver tremendous growth due to the growth in per capita income in Asian countries and increase in medical tourism industry. With the growing access of public with healthcare professional and expanding economy china is expected to be the fastest growing market for endoscopic vessel harvesting system.Request For TOC@Some major companies in the endoscopic vessel harvesting system market are Maquet Holding B.V. & Co. KG., OLYMPUS CORPORATION, Terumo Cardiovascular Systems Corporation., Med Europe S.r.l. (Elite Life Care), Sorin Group Inc., Saphena Medical, Inc and Terumo Cardiovascular Systems Corporation.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
LIMS Market Global Industry Analysis and Forecast Till 2026
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Rise in the advanced technologies and rapid innovations healthcare information technology (IT) enables unlock potential for the companies which are striving in healthcare information technology. Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) have become important tool for moving the information, gathering, decision making, calculation, review, and release the process away from the office and into work place. LIMS is a software based laboratory and information management system which enables support modern laboratory operations. LIMS has its broad range of applications in various fields such as Environmental science, Pharmaceuticals, Petrochemicals. LIMS has provides its applications in sample management, data mining, data analysis, and electronic laboratory network. In pharmaceutical industry LIMS provides enormous applications such as test library included as standard functionality, dissolution, disintegration, dosage uniformity, drug release, product assays and stability module that simplifies stability studies. Biotechnological applications, LIMS assists Research and Development labs by integrating with instrumentation to provide automation to microarrays, gel electrophoresis, gene expression profiling etc. There is a significant difference between LIMS and LIS. LIMS is aimed to process and report data related to batches of samples from biology labs, drug trails, water treatment facilities. LIS designed for process and report the data related to individual patients. Global LIMS market is expected to exhibit a significant CAGR as well as annual growth over the forecast period.LIMS Market: Drivers and restraintsGlobal Laboratory Information Management System market can be influenced by following factors, LIMS provides wide range of applications to biopharmaceutical companies to address the key challenges in drug development process. Due to applications pharmaceutical companies inclined towards LIMS. Laboratories adopted advanced technologies in order to maintain precision and robust functionality specific for bio analysis, in vitro ADME experiments, and discovery R&D and QA/QC R&D. Key restraints include lack skilled professionals to manage advanced technology is major bottleneck for global LIMS market.LIMS Market: SegmentationGlobal Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Market can be segmented as following typesBy ProductSoftwareHardwareServicesBy Delivery ModeOn premiseCloud BasedRequest Free Report Sample@By End UserPharmaceutical IndustryBiotechnology IndustryHospitalsResearch centersLIMS Market: OverviewGlobal LIMS market is gaining huge traction due to increasing the demand of LIMS in biopharmaceutical companies and laboratories due to its efficiency and effectiveness. Technological advancements in the laboratory system enables to make significant changes in the market. The LIMS market expected to account a lucrative market as well as robust growth rates over the forecasted period.LIMS Market: Region-Wise OutlookLaboratory Information Management System (LIMS) market is segmented into seven key regions: Those are North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, and Asia pacific excluding japan, Japan, Middle East and Africa.North America dominating the LIMS market due to increased awareness among the people towards the innovative technologies to maintain laboratory information. Asian Pacific region market is considered to rapidly evolving healthcare infrastructure, the region is anticipated to unlock the potential of LIMS market over the forecast period.Request For TOC@LIMS Market: Key playersSome of the key players in LIMS Market are Thermo fisher Scientific, Inc., Siemens SA, Perkin Elmer Inc., Labware, Star LIMS (Abbott Laboratories. Abbott Park, U.S.A), Genologics (Illumina, Inc.), Promium LLc. LabLynx Inc., Autoscribe Informatics, Novatek International, Core Informatics etc.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Research report explores the Smart Pulse Oximeters Market for the forecast period, 2016-2026
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Smart pulse oximeter is one of the fastest growing product type in the vital sign monitoring devices segment. Smart pulse oximeter is a non-invasive medical device used to measure the oxygen saturation level and heart rate in human. Smart pulse oximeter is a clip like device also known as a probe and is placed on body parts such as fingertip or ear lobe to measure the heart rate and oxygen level. It uses infrared light to measure the oxygen level and heart rate. The measurement of oxygen level and heart rate are very important while performing surgeries and injecting the anaesthesia, because the changes in the oxygen level in such a conditions may cause life threatening effects. Smart pulse oximeter also used to check the human health with a conditions such as heart attack, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), anaemia, lung cancer and asthma. However, the readings of smart pulse oximeter may not accurate in peripheral vascular diseases. Smart pulse oximeters products market is segmented into handheld pulse oximeters, finger pulse oximeters, paediatric pulse oximeters and wrist pulse oximeters.. Hand held smart pulse oximeters are useful for pilots to check the oxygen level when they are operating at above 10,000 feet. These devices are also useful to the mountaineers and athletes to check the oxygen level. Paediatric pulse oximeters mainly used in the hospitals and these devices are separately designed to measure the oxygen saturation level and heart rate in the infants.Smart pulse oximeter market has been segmented on the basis of product type, and end userSmart Pulse Oximeter Market, by Product TypeFinger Pulse OximeterHandheld Pulse OximeterPaediatric Pulse OximeterWrist Pulse OximeterSmart Pulse Oximeter Market, by End UserHospitalAmbulatory surgical centresHome Care SettingRequest Free Report Sample@The use of pulse oximeter in the home care settings has expanded over the last few years and is expected to register a healthy growth rate during the forecast periodOver the past few years, leading players in the vital sign monitoring devices segment are manufacturing devices with new technology such as Bluetooth which displays the readings in the smartphone. Moreover, the availability of cost effective smart pulse oximeters are the factors driving growth of overall smart pulse oximeter market., World Health Organization (WHO) started safety pulse oximetry project to improve the health in middle-income countries also expected to boost the smart pulse oximeter market. Increasing incidence rates of trauma conditions and increasing prevalence of heart related diseases are also expected to drive the smart pulse oximeter market. However, availability of high end devices to measure the heart rate is expected to hamper the overall market.Depending on geographic region, Smart Pulse Oximeter Market is segmented into five key regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. North America is estimated to contribute maximum revenue share in the global market of smart pulse oximeter followed by Europe. Asia Pacific regions are expected to grow at a higher growth rate owing to high occurrence of chronic disease. Middle East & Africa is expected to show a healthy growth rate during forecast period.Smart Pulse Oximeters Market: Key PlayersKey players of smart pulse oximeter market are Nonin Medical Inc, Shenzhen Creative Industry Co.,Ltd, iHealth Labs Inc. Indiegogo, Inc., Technocare Medisystems, Contec Medical Systems Co.,Ltd., and MasimoRequest For TOC@ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Future Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress: press@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Anesthesia Endotracheal Tubes Market: A complete backdrop analysis up to 2024
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Anesthesia endotracheal tube is a tube implanted in trachea to administer anesthesia, maintain the airway passage of lungs, prevent aspiration into the lungs, and allow mechanical ventilation. It also establishes the aspiration of secretions and anticipation of the pathway of extraneous material into the tracheobronchial tree. The endotracheal tube is of two types: orotracheal tube and nasotracheal tube. The orotracheal tube is rooted through the mouth, while the nasotracheal tube is rooted through the nose into the trachea. Both are used for anesthesia management.With the advancement of health care facilities and modern technologies, surgery of vital organs such as lungs has become easy. Anesthesia endotracheal tubes make it easy for the surgeons to sedate the patient and perform the surgical procedure. Also, these tubes are accepted and used by the patients of all age groups with breathing or lung problems. This is a major factor driving the market for anesthesia endotracheal tubes. Growing industrialization leading to rise in air pollution and habits such as smoking are responsible for increasing incidence of respiratory diseases. This can be considered as a factor propelling the anesthesia endotracheal tubes market. Rising incidence of other respiratory diseases, lung diseases, and breathing disorders also drives the market.Obtain Report Details:Introduction of advanced technology in the medical field, which enables easy performing of critical surgeries and usage of high-quality consumables in the field are the recent trends in the global anesthesia endotracheal tubes market. However, availability of an increased number of alternative disposable devices and upcoming better options may act as a barrier for the anesthesia endotracheal tubes market. The anesthesia endotracheal tubes market has been segregated into organized and unorganized as well as global and regional players. The unorganized local market in developing countries may give a tough competition to the global players by maintaining high quality standards at reasonable pricing. The dealers in the developed market are targeting back with product innovations.Based on the product type, the global anesthesia endotracheal tubes market can be segmented into: orotracheal tubes and nasotracheal tubes. Orotracheal tubes are implanted in the patients trachea through the mouth. Nasotracheal tubes are implanted in the trachea through the nose. These tubes are employed in the cases wherein the patients mouth needs to be operated.Based on the end-user, the anesthesia endotracheal tubes market can be segmented into: hospitals & clinics and ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs).High demand for home-based therapy and modernization in video laryngoscopes also drive the global anesthesia endotracheal tubes market. However, complications in the anesthesia delivery system, availability of a small number of skilled medical practitioners to perform critical surgeries with perfection, and growing preference to laryngeal masks over anesthesia endotracheal tubes are likely be major factors restraining the growth of the market during the forecast period.Fill the form for an exclusive sample of this report:Based on the geographical region, the anesthesia endotracheal tubes market can be segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America is a major market for anesthesia endotracheal tubes, due to respiratory disorder-prone lifestyle of people in the region and a large number of elderly population. Asia Pacific is an expanding market due to increase in the incidence of respiratory diseases in the region.Some players operating in the global anesthesia endotracheal tubes market are Medline Industries, Medtronic, C. R. Bard, ConvaTec, GE Healthcare, Smiths Medical, KindWell Medical, ROYAX, Fuji Systems, Teleflex, Neurovision Medical, and Intersurgical.The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a U.S.-based provider of syndicated research, customized research, and consulting services. TMRs global and regional market intelligence coverage includes industries such as pharmaceutical, chemicals and materials, technology and media, food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others. Each TMR research report provides clients with a 360-degree view of the market with statistical forecasts, competitive landscape, detailed segmentation, key trends, and strategic recommendations.Contact us:Transparency Market Research90 State Street,Suite 700,AlbanyNY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Club Store Packaging Market: - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share 2017 - 2017
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Club store packaging plays an important role in consumer shopping experience in a warehouse club store, which is a type of retail store dealing with variety of merchandise brought in large or wholesale quantities. Club store packaging involves merchandise in a warehouse club store being stacked on pallets to attract the attention of the consumers. Club store packaging is different than packaging for other retail formats like grocery stores or super markets. This is because warehouse club stores have evolved in the use of 80/20 rule. While 20 % of products in retail stores account for 80 % of its revenue, warehouse club stores stock only 20 % of these products. In traditional retail formats where packaging plays a role in highlighting and differentiating a particular brand from another, club store packaging attempts to differentiate a specific product from another.In a traditional retail format like supermarkets where customers have option to select from wider range of brands, warehouse club stores on the other hand offer limited number of brands. Hence, a warehouse club store will focus on highlighting the functional aspects of a product like a cup of Horlicks rather than focusing on the Horlicks brand name or logo.Make an Enquiry @Customers at a warehouse club store generally pay membership fees in order to shop at the store. As warehouse club stores are exclusive to its members, offering an enticing shopping experience differentiates warehouse clubs from other retail formats.Club Store Packaging - Market Dynamics:Club store packaging market is driven by strategies adopted by warehouse club store operators, primarily by three players Costco, Sams Club operated by Walmart and BJs Wholesale. Warehouse club store market in the U.S. generates revenue in excess of US$ 400 billion wherein Costco and Sams Club together generate sales of about US$ 140 billion. Costco is the largest player in terms of sales whereas Sams club has most number of locations.For more information on this report, fill the form @One important challenge faced by club store packaging market is the prevalent use of corrugated paper material which offer strength and resistance but discourages the creation of attractive and appealing graphics that help in grabbing customer attention in the club store.However, club store packaging can exploit this opportunity of creating innovative and attractive packaging products. Display ready packaging (DRP) and retail ready packaging (RRP) are such concepts that make club store packaging products more appealing. Retail ready packaging allows direct-to-shelf movement of merchandise with minimum requirement of handling while display ready packaging involves use of appealing and multi-color display graphics.Recent trends in club store packaging have seen the use of recycled material to target environmental conscious consumers and the use of non-fluted paper to improve the printing capabilities. Few other trends observed in club store packaging are color blocking wherein individual packages are palletized to create a solid block of single color to be seen from distance, billboarding which involves creation of large continuous design by stacking pallets side by side and last is arrangement of pallets so that shopping is allowed from all three sides.Club Store Packaging Market Segmentation:Club store packaging market is segmented into market segments and end use industry. On the basis of market segments, club store packaging serves business segment such as beverage, food, home care, health care, and personal care.Market for club store packaging can be segmented according to the packaging type such as blister packaging, packaged to display quality box (PDQ) trays, cartons (bag-in-box), multi-packs, shrink wrapping, standup pouches, cans, trays, oversized club store packaging, bulk content packaging, custom fitted compartment and fully sealed packaging.Club Store Packaging Market Regional Outlook:Geographically, the global club store packaging market can be segmented into North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific, excluding Japan, Japan and Middle East and Africa.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Dichlorvos (DDVP): Global Product Intelligence (2015-2020)
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ReportsWorldwide has announced the addition of a new report title Dichlorvos (DDVP): Global Product Intelligence (2015-2020) to its growing collection of premium market research reports.The report Dichlorvos (DDVP): Global Product Intelligence provides market intelligence on the different market segments, based on type, application, and geography. Market size and forecast (2011-2020) has been provided in the report.The report Dichlorvos (DDVP): Global Product Intelligence (2015-2020) provides market intelligence on the different segments of the agrochemical, based on type of formulation, crop type, pest, and geography. Market size and forecast (2015-2020) has been provided in terms of both, Value (000 USD) and Volume (000 KG) in the report. A detailed qualitative analysis of the factors responsible for driving and restraining growth of the agrochemical and future market opportunities have also been discussed.To view a detailed description and Table of Contents please visit:KEY FINDINGS FROM THE REPORT- Dichlorvos (DDVP), an insecticide belonging to group Organophosphate, is used for controlling various pests such as Aphids, Lipaphis, Chilo, Sesamia, Tryporyza, Aphids, Bemisia, Myzus, Nilaparvata & Sogatella among others.- China, Mexico, South- Africa, India, Turkey are the leading country markets among others.- Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) is the leading formulations in 2015. - Sprout Intelligence agrochemicals expert team estimated global Dichlorvos (DDVP) market to be more than USD 190 Million.To Get Sample Copy of Report please visit @ReportsWorldwide.com is a leading provider of global market intelligence reports and services. With research reports from top publishers, consulting and advisory firms, ReportsWorldwide.com offers instant online access to a growing database of expert insights on global industries, companies, products, geographies and trends.Press Contact:Abigail CrastoSenior Vice President101, Arch Street Boston, MA 02110US Phone +1 (617) 398-4994Fax +1 (617) 398-4995abigail@reportsworldwide.com
Difenoconazole: Global Product Intelligence (2015-2020)
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ReportsWorldwide has announced the addition of a new report title Difenoconazole: Global Product Intelligence (2015-2020) to its growing collection of premium market research reports.The report Difenoconazole: Global Product Intelligence provides market intelligence on the different market segments, based on type, application, and geography. Market size and forecast (2011-2020) has been provided in the report.The report Difenoconazole: Global Product Intelligence (2015-2020) provides market intelligence on the different segments of the agrochemical, based on type of formulation, crop type, pest, and geography. Market size and forecast (2015-2020) has been provided in terms of both, Value (000 USD) and Volume (000 KG) in the report. A detailed qualitative analysis of the factors responsible for driving and restraining growth of the agrochemical and future market opportunities have also been discussed.To view a detailed description and Table of Contents please visit:KEY FINDINGS FROM THE REPORT- Difenoconazole, a fungicide belonging to group Triazole, is used for controlling various pests such as Phakopsora, Phytophthora, Plasmopara, Aphids among others.- China, Brazil, USA, Russia, France, and Argentina are the leading country markets among others.- Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) & Suspension Concentrate (SC) were the leading formulations in 2015.- Sprout Intelligence agrochemicals expert team estimated global Difenoconazole market to be more than USD 580 Million.To Get Sample Copy of Report please visit @ReportsWorldwide.com is a leading provider of global market intelligence reports and services. With research reports from top publishers, consulting and advisory firms, ReportsWorldwide.com offers instant online access to a growing database of expert insights on global industries, companies, products, geographies and trends.Press Contact:Abigail CrastoSenior Vice President101, Arch Street Boston, MA 02110US Phone +1 (617) 398-4994Fax +1 (617) 398-4995abigail@reportsworldwide.com
ALCORs Unique Value Proposition Gives Firm Momentum to Attract Top Business Opportunity
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Chicago, ILMarch 3, 2017 -ALCOR Mergers and Acquisitions,a global authority in matters of private equity consulting over the last few years. ALCOR approach is unique and self-disciplinary to ensure the client is successful. ALCOR global offices study prospects and contact them with thepresentation of possible M&A transaction and its impact. On mutual agreement, ALCOR proceeds to setup and structure the M&A transaction with performance clauses to ensure long-term success. ALCOR works on Retainer Fees and Progressive Milestone Fees with Success Fees, hence mitigating a deal failure risks for clients. We offer optimal solutions to the clients through our macroeconomic forecasting, synergy analysis, 14 block micro-mapping, global customer mapping, Strategy 360, LCA and LCJ models, RFG models, and such other innovative and ALCOR developed IP services.ALCORs core value proposition includes: Harvard Business School educated team with in-depth knowledge about multiple structure options, creating outstanding value, with global and Indian experience. Deep industry and CEO level contacts with funds, Digital Learning Media companies, and potential foreign market entrants. Exposure to billion and $100 million plus transactions. Market -leader in cross-border M&A. Global offices with an office in Chicago as well as India to support the venture for EB Inc. India office has a staff strength of 70 plus analysts. A full-service Investment Bank, with total solutions driven approach, including identification, negotiations, structuring (high value-driven models), funding (both equity &debt), post-merger integration of HR, operations and client retention. Right, pitch, high delivery (valuation) and within the time frame.Request Call -/enquire-now.phpALCORs Strategy 360 drives growth and profits of the company. A company learns to use global low-cost resources to increase its profitability and enter high growth markets to increase top line growth. ALCORs low-cost JV Model helps companies in growing into global locations to service its global customers anytime. Through ALCORs low cost acquisition model, a company can acquire another mapped company with just about 10% of its value, by structuring the rest of the investments through debt on the targets assets, structured payments from profits, vendor credit, customer credit, customer funded working capital, JV partnership driven capital and the like. ALCORs Geographical M&A Scope helps companies in following its global customer map with ageographical footprint to support the customers. As this is a critical step to mitigate business risks for the company and can be achieved in a low-cost way through ALCORs innovative RGF models using ALCORs resources and portfolios globally.About ALCOR Mergers and AcquisitionsALCOR offers its fund management services with an investment range of US$10mn to US$500mn along with an array of investment banking services. ALCOR, augmented with an elite Board of Harvard and Oxford alumni; extends its dynamic leadership for M&A advisory, buy-side & sell-side advisory, JV advisory & execution, strategic alliance, management buyouts & leveraged buyouts, Corporate Finance & Restructuring and Business Growth Consultancy. ALCOR Fund has several portfolio companies in emerging markets.ALCOR has become one of the leading players in PE consulting, M&A, International Business Development and consulting services over last five years. Alcor has assisted numerous clients in North America, Europe, and Asia to grow their business in organic as well as through inorganic way. At ALCOR, we advise clients across industries during different stages of capital requirements with the primary goal of offering long term appreciation of the capital.Our team of experts in different industry verticals assists clients in identification, execution, procedure and exit from the transactions. Our functional expertise, in-depth industry knowledge, global reach, and dedicated team of experts assist us to offer best growth strategies according to their exact requirements. Alcor holds exclusive expertise in private equity syndication and venture capital, which ensures a successful deal closure, every time.Contact:ALCOR Fund,8770 W Bryn Mawr Ave,Suite 1300Chicago, IL 60631USA Tel: +1 773 896 1534, 800 507 4489Fax No.: +1 877 284 0818Website:Email: lgodage@alcorfund.com
Recent Research Report on Global Industrial Gases Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020)
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global Industrial Gases Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020)" to its huge collection of research reports.The report entitled Global Industrial Gases Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2016-2020), provides a detailed analysis of the industrial gases market with analysis of market size and growth and market segmentation on the basis of product and market share by region.Asia Pacific is the largest market for industrial gases with the highest share followed by EMEA and Americas. Rising application of industrial gases in booming fields of healthcare, manufacturing and electronic segments in the Asia Pacific region is expected to drive the demand of industrial gases in the region.The report assesses the 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 industrial gases 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.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @A brief company profiling of major market players namely Air Liquide, Linde, Air Products and Praxair has provided in the report on the basis of aspects like business overview, financial overview and business strategies adopted by respective companies.Company CoverageAir LiquideLinde GroupPraxairAir ProductsExecutive SummaryIndustrial gases are comprised of elements, molecular compounds or mixtures. The most common industrial gases are oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide and noble gases such as argon, neon, xenon and krypton. Some industrial gases such as nitrogen, oxygen, argon, LNG and liquefied petroleum gas are liquefied at high pressure for ease of storage and transport. Industrial gases are used in a wide number of industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, steelmaking, and food & beverages etc.The global industrial gases market has increased during the year 2014-15, and projections are made that the market would rise in the next five years i.e. 2016-2020 at a rapid pace. Major factors contributing in the growth of the market are rising demand from major industries such as oil and gas, increasing application of industrial gases, growing demand of liquefied gas, and growing urbanization etc.Rapid industrialization in emerging economies such as India and China, rising use of industrial gases in solar PV industry, and emerging innovative technologies are expected to fuel the market demand in the forecasted period. In spite of high growth, market is still facing certain challenges that are hampering the growth of the market. Challenges encountered by the market are lack of quality and cost of power, high distribution cost, and stringent government and environmental regulations etc.Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
LOS ANGELES, March 02, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Azteca America, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mexican broadcaster TV Azteca, S.A.B de C.V., one of the two largest producers of Spanish-language content in the world, today announced that the network was honored by Cynopsis Media as the 2016 Social Good Award Winner for Awareness Campaign/Initiative in the Civic Empowerment category at the 3rd Annual Cynopsis Social Good Awards. The network was recognized for its recent achievements in civic engagement, which focused on the 2016 presidential election.
It is truly an honor to be recognized for the networks tireless efforts to engage U.S. Hispanics in the 2016 election, said Manuel Abud, President and CEO, Azteca America. No other television network or station in the country, regardless of language, made a similar effort. We pride ourselves on our ability to build bridges and establish alliances across the industry, and we are driven by our commitment to serve the U.S. Hispanic community.
Starting in 2015, Azteca began building a network of alliances with social organizations such as the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO), the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI), the Central American Resource Center (CARECEN), Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA), Council of Mexican Federations in North America (COFEM), Voto Latino, Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ), the City of Los Angeles, the County of Los Angeles, Univision, Telemundo, Estrella TV, Entravision, and La Opinion. Azteca took the lead to bring these organizations together to work with Azteca and its Spanish-language media competitors to implement the !Protegete, Ciudadania Ya!" (Protect yourself, citizenship now!) campaign, which launched a call to action aimed at legal residents to become U.S. citizens and then encouraged those same people to register to vote and participate in the 2016 election. After the deadline to apply for citizenship passed, the campaign shifted focus to embolden U.S. Hispanic citizens to register to vote and get to the polls on Election Day. The campaign was designed to be rolled out in Los Angeles first and then replicated nationally.
Voting is one of our most important responsibilities. There is no election too big or too small, from City Council to the President of the United States, we need to participate in every election. Government affects our lives at every level, and its critical that we have the right people making decisions for us, said Luis J. Echarte, Chairman, Azteca America.
Azteca America devoted four of its monthly "Solucion Azteca," community support events to civic participation. These are on-air events over the course of a single day during planned commercial breaks. The network was also instrumental in the execution of a citizenship event held in Los Angeles in April 2016 that generated 3,500 appointments for residents engaged in the process of becoming U.S. citizens and was attended by more than 10,000 people. In addition, 100% of the content of the 6:30 pm national newscast was dedicated to the topic in the five months leading up to the election. Azteca produced many PSAs and promotional products and messages to air in prime time and across other key dayparts.
The annual Cynopsis Social Good Awards honor media companies for their efforts to give back to the community through their professional platform. The awards highlight notable achievements across categories such as sustainability partnerships and PSAs, diversity campaigns, environmental initiatives, and more.
About Azteca Americas Network
Azteca America engages Spanish-language viewers by creating unique, passionate and enlightening content that is relevant to the daily lives of our audience. Wholly owned by Mexican broadcaster TV Azteca, S.A.B. de C.V. one of the two largest producers of Spanish language content in the world, Azteca America complements its Mexican programs with an innovative lineup of shows from third-party producers and distributors to ensure the finest programming for its audience. The company provides tailored, multi-platform advertising solutions for clients seeking to reach the most dynamic consumer group in the country.
Global Alpha 1-Antitrypsin (AAT) Replacement Therapy Industry Analysis (2016-2020) | Recent Survey
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global Alpha 1-Antitrypsin (AAT) Replacement Therapy Market: Size, Trends and Forecast (2016-2020)" to its huge collection of research reports.The report titled Global Alpha 1-Antitrypsin (AAT) Replacement Therapy Market: Size, Trends and Forecast (2016-2020) provides an in-depth analysis of the global AAT Replacement Therapy market with detailed analysis of market sizing, growth and market share. The report provides market size by value and volume along with the supply trend prevailing in the market.The report provides detail market analysis of the major products available in the market for treating AAT deficiency. The four major products included are, Prolastin, Glassia, Zemaira, and Aralast. Among which, Prolastin had the monopoly in the market for over 25 years, Asit was the first AAT Replacement Therapy available in the market for the treatement.The report also assesses the 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 AAT Replacement Therapy 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 AAT Replacement Therapy market is stiff and dominated by the big players like Grifols. Further, key players of the AAT Replacement Therapy market, Kamada, Shire and CSL Behring are also profiled withtheir financial information and respective business strategies.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Regional CoverageGlobalCompany CoverageGrifols SAKamada Ltd.CSL Behring LLCShire PLCExecutive SummaryAlpha 1 antitrypsin is a type of plasma protein inside our body, it is called protease inhibitor. AAT is made in the liver and its function is to protect lungs and liver. Deficiency of AAT protein is caused by genetic defect. Adults with severe AAT deficiency develop emphysema. Smoking can increase the risk of emphysema. The market to replace AAT deficiency by replacement therapy has grown with in past 5-10 years.The global AAT Replacement therapy market has increased at a significant CAGR during the span of 4 years i.e. 2012-2015 and projections are made that the market would rise in the next five years i.e. 2016-2020 tremendously. The market for AAT replacement therapy has increased significantly in these years because the people as well as doctors have become more aware of the disease. Earlier, patients suffering from AAT deficiency were treated like asthma patients or other COPD patients. But, now, doctors have access to better diagnostics tests that can detect disease at the early stage.Improvement in the method of treatment is the major driver for the growth of the market, a number of technologies and diagnostics have been innovated to treat and diagnose the same. Thus, the increased awareness along with improved treatment signifies the upsurge in the AAT Replacement Therapy market. Also, the number the of prescriptions for AAT Replacement therapy have been reported to increase at an increasing rate, driving the market in the positive direction. Despite the market is governed by various growth drivers, there are certain challenges faced by the market such as: the cost of the treatment is high for people, limited plasma fraction capacity and side-effects of alpha1 proteinase inhibitor.Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Meat and Poultry Processing Equipment Market 2017
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Market Research analysts forecast the global meat and poultry processing equipment market to grow at a CAGR of 6.24% during the period 2017-2021.The following companies as the key players in the Global Meat and Poultry Processing Equipment Market: JBT, Marel, Tetra Laval International, and Key Technology.Other Prominent Vendors in the market are: Bettcher Industries, GEA Group, TOMRA, Weber, BAADER Food Processing Machinery, Bayle, Prime Equipment Group, CG Manufacturing and Distribution, and Brower Equipment.Download Sample Report @Commenting on the report, an analyst team said: One trend in market is rise in private-label processed meat products. Private-label processed meat and poultry products are gaining popularity among consumers as they are affordable and ready-to-cook, which also resemble entree. Private-label products are available at premium claims with unique flavoring. Private-label meat products are being stocked in retail stores and are available at lower prices compared with branded products, which are also appealing to consumers. Over the years, there has been a constant increase in the demand for private-labeled meat products, especially in developed economies such as the US and Europe.According to the report, one driver in market is rise in demand for pork in China. The worlds largest consumer and producer of pork is China. The country has become the leading importer of pork and is expected to account for more than a quarter of the global pork trade market in 2017. Europe is the largest exporter of pork to China and accounts for more than 72% of the Chinese pork import market. Low prices, abundant exportable supplies, and favorable exchange rate have led European countries to expand their shipment of pork to China. Even though the US accounts for only 18% of the China's pork import market, it is expected to remain as an important market for US shipment due to growing demand for pork. The shipment of pork from the US accounted for only 5.9% in January 2015, which increased to 13.2% in August 2015 due to a rapid decline in the production of domestic pork.Further, the report states that one challenge in market is health risks associated with consumption of processed meat. Due to health risks associated with processed meat, consumers in the US are reducing the consumption of such food products. Excessive consumption of processed meat may lead to increased risk of premature deaths. It was observed that individuals consuming processed meat were at a 72% increased risk of acquiring a heart disease than consumers of non-processed meat. Also, the risk of dying from cancer was 11% higher. A study conducted by the American Institute of Cancer in 2007 stated that 50 g of processed meat consumed daily increased the risk of colorectal cancer by 21%. A study published in the Journal of Diabetology highlighted the increased risk of the intake of processed meat leading to type 2 diabetes at 41%.The study was conducted using an objective combination of primary and secondary information including inputs from key participants in the industry. The report contains a comprehensive market and vendor landscape in addition to a SWOT analysis of the key vendors.About Meat and Poultry Processing EquipmentMeat and poultry processing equipment is used by manufacturers of meat and poultry products for processing meat using techniques such as blending, homogenization, pasteurization, and filling. Processing of food helps in removal of toxins and preservation. Processed food offers advantages such as enhanced taste, low risk of contamination, enhanced shelf life, and a high degree of portability.Complete Report Details @Covered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global meat and poultry processing equipment market for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report discusses the market drivers, trends, and challenges faced by the market and their impact on the future market scenarios.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:APACEuropeNorth AmericaROWGlobal Meat And Poultry Processing Equipment Market 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendorsJBTMarelTetra Laval InternationalKey TechnologyOther prominent vendorsBettcher IndustriesGEA GroupTOMRAWeberBAADER Food Processing MachineryBaylePrime Equipment GroupCG Manufacturing and DistributionBrower EquipmentMarket driverGreater emphasis on processed meat and poultry products.For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challengeHealth risks associated with consumption of processed meat.For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trendRise of private-label processed meat products.For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this reportWhat will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be?What are the key market trends?What is driving this market?What are the challenges to market growth?Who are the key vendors in this market space?What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?You can request one free hour of our analysts time when you purchase this market report. Details are provided within the report.....ContinuedDiscount On This Report @For more information, please visitMarket Reports Center is an e-commerce platform obliging the needs of knowledge workers, experts, professionals who are subject to market research information for their work, or to make strategic business decisions. Market Reports Centers team consistently works to update and extend our existing repository of market research reports by partnering with new publishers and adding their studies to our websiteSam Collins303, Astral Court,Aundh, Pune,MH - 411045, Indiainfo@marketreportscenter.com
Medical Vehicles Market 2017
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Global Medical Vehicles Industry 2021 Market Research Report analyzed the current state in the definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The report also focuses on the development trends as well as history, competitive landscape analysis, and key regions etc in the international markets.Global Medical Vehicles Industry 2021 Market Research Report is a professionally prepared report comprising of in-depth information as well as knowledge which is helpful to the new entrants and the established players. Key statistics on the state of the industry and the complete demand analysis of the industry is showcased in the report.Download Sample Report @The development policies, plans as well as the bill of materials, cost structures are well studied and explained within the report for a better understanding. It also includes the study of the sales, import/export consumption, supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins. Also, the complete analysis of the prices, revenue share, growth rate etc.Through combining the well-integrated data with the deep analytical skills valid findings are detected. It gives out a strong prediction about the growth of the Medical Vehicles industry in the future years to come. Furthermore, each and every important variable which is responsible for shaping the Global Medical Vehicles Industry in the incorporated during the preparation process of the report.The report begins with the industry overview furnishing the details about the specifications, classification, applications, industry chain structure as well as gives out the policy analysis of the industry. It moves further on towards determining the manufacturing cost structure analysis, technical data as well as the manufacturing plant analysis. A lot of insightful predictions about the production, export/import, and consumption is provided in the report.Complete Report Details @Future Development Trends in the Global Medical Vehicles Company through the market share, SWOT analysis, revenue, gross margin is indicated through the report. Apart from it the report also provides great prospects of the new projects investments, SWOT analysis of the new projects, details about the key consumers with the complete contact details for the new entrants to engage in better opportunities.The competitive landscape of the market state showcases the study of the most renowned players in the China markets in the field of Global Medical Vehicles industry. A detailed and thorough analysis of the company profiles, production as well as consumption, traders, marketing distributors along with the impact is covered throughout the report. The overall research conclusions with the investment avenues are prevalent in the report. Through the report, the new entrants are able to get the complete overview of the current state of the Global Medical Vehicles which will be beneficial for them.....ContinuedDiscount On This Report @For more information, please visitMarket Reports Center is an e-commerce platform obliging the needs of knowledge workers, experts, professionals who are subject to market research information for their work, or to make strategic business decisions. Market Reports Centers team consistently works to update and extend our existing repository of market research reports by partnering with new publishers and adding their studies to our websiteSam Collins303, Astral Court,Aundh, Pune,MH - 411045, Indiainfo@marketreportscenter.com
INDIAS FIRST CONFERENCE ON CONTAINER TECHNOLOGIES ORGANIZED IN BANGALORE Announcing keynotes by Ian Lewis (Google) and Evan Powell (OpenEBS)
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Bangalore, Karnataka: The Bangalore Container Conference 2017 (BCC 17) isIndias first conference on container technologies organized in Park Plaza, Bangaloreon 07/April/2017. Numerous organizations are in the process of adopting containertechnologies to get early-mover advantage, reduce time-to-market and gain marketshare.Hence the focus of this conference is on Containers in Production.Hundreds of thousands of developers are eager to learn about the latest happeningsin the rapidly evolving world of container technologies. A few hundred delegates(experts, architects, developers, DevOps engineers, practitioners, CXOs andenthusiasts) are expected to participate in this multi-track conference. Key details ofthe conference: Keynotes from gurus in container technologieso Ian Lewis (from Googles Kubernetes team)o Evan Powell (Chairman OpenEBS & founding CEO StackStorm) Hands-on workshops on Rancher and Kubernetes Expert panel discussion on containers in production Experience sharing from practitioners including war stories and solutionscondensed as best practicesPlease go to the website () to purchase tickets, as well as for the updated schedule.About CodeOps Technologies LLP: CodeOps Technologies is a software technologycompany focusing on products, consulting and training. CodeOps has trainedhundreds of professionals (from mostly Fortune 100 companies), providesconsultancy services to large organisations, and contributes extensively tocommunity activities by organising meet-ups. For more details on CodeOps, pleasevisit the websiteContact:Ganesh SamarthyamFounder, CodeOps Technologies LLPganesh@codeops.tech(+91) 98801 64463Address:Snehanjali Residency,3rd Main, S.G.Palaya,C.V.Raman Nagar,3rd Main Rd, Byrasandra Extension,Bayarappa Layout, Suddaguntapalya,C V Raman Nagar, Bengaluru,Karnataka 560093,India
AasaanJobs Announces Expansion Plans Over Key Tier-2 cities
Operations will be set up in the North, West, and South zones Gurgaon, Nasik, Bangalore; part of its strategic move is to acquire more corporate clients in various industries.AasaanJobs Announces Expansion Plans Over Key Tier-2 citiesAasaanJobs, one of Indias leading online recruitment marketplace that connects entry-level job seekers with employers, announces its plans to further expand its reach across major Tier-2 cities in India. The company will set up its operations in three major zones, Gurgaon, Mumbai, and Bangalore, apart from other cities in the North, East, South, and West regions. The main three cities will also serve as AasaanJobs headquarters in their respective areas.A large section of the Tier-2 market has been untapped by organized players as the growth prospect in these areas is relatively slower than in metropolises. According to the India Skills Report 2016, more than 50% of the working age population in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities are employable. However, the demand concentration and slow growth discourages many players to fully exploit the market potential in these regions.Keeping such factors in mind, AasaanJobs plans to set up operations across 20 different cities under the specified zones. Its decision to expand its services towards Tier-2 cities is part of its business expansion strategy to acquire more corporate clients in various industries in the next couple of years.Commenting on the announcement, Siddharth Gupta, VP of marketing for AasaanJobs.com said, The rise in demand for better job search & recruitment platforms has proven to be a boon for the employment industry in India.However, there appears to be a huge market gap between the availability of such services in Tier-2 cities, which holds lots of potential, yet, no takers. Thus, identifying the huge demand for Tier-2 recruitments from our existing and prospective clients, along with low competition, we wanted to leverage our partner network and activate our presence in Tier-2 markets. We are confident that our recruitment platform will work well in Tier-2 cities as we will be able to facilitate lots of new demand for our recruitment partners in these areas.Ever since its launch, AasaanJobs has acquired several clients across multiple sectors, especially in BFSI and logistics. With its latest expansion plan, the dynamic venture hopes to enter the Tier-2 market as the bar is relatively set low as compared to other Indian metropolises, and barriers in language or sales requirements will have no major effect on the business.Based on the varied talent pool available, AasaanJobs plans to set up operations in: Delhi, Chandigarh, Gurgaon (HQ), Lucknow, Jaipur (North); Ahmedabad, Pune, Surat, Baroda, Nagpur, Rajkot, Mumbai(HQ-West zone), Nasik and Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore(HQ), Secunderabad, Cochin, Vizag (South). It also has plans to expand its services in Kolkata soon.Aasaanjobs is a leading end-to-end recruitment marketplace connecting employers, consultants and job seekers. Our goal is to make hiring quick, easy and convenient for everyone involved.Aasaanjobs Office: 022-44446666 ,Unit No:4, B Wing, Krislon House, Opposite Marwah Center, Military Road, Off Saki Vihar Road, Mumbai - 400072
Global Maize Market Share, Size, Growth, Trends & Forecast 2017-2025
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IndexBox has just published a new report "World: Maize - Market Report. Analysis And Forecast To 2025". (This report provides an in-depth analysis of the global maize market. Within it, you will find the latest data on market trends and opportunities by country, consumption and production, food balance and price developments, as well as global trade (imports and exports). The forecast reveals market prospects to 2025.Countries coverage: WorldwideProduct coverage:MaizeData coverage: Maize market size and value; Per Capita consumption; Forecast of the market dynamics in the medium term; Global maize production, split by region and country; Global maize trade (exports and imports); Producer, export and import prices for maize; Maize market trends, drivers and restraints; Key market players and their profiles.Reasons to buy this report: Take advantage of the latest data; Find deeper insights into current market developments; Discover vital success factors affecting the market.TABLE OF CONTENTS1. INTRODUCTION1.1 REPORT DESCRIPTION1.2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2.1 KEY FINDINGS2.2 MARKET TRENDS3. MARKET OVERVIEW3.1 MARKET VOLUME AND VALUE3.2 CONSUMPTION BY COUNTRY3.3 MARKET OPPORTUNITIES BY COUNTRY3.4 MARKET FORECAST TO 20254. PRODUCTION4.1 PRODUCTION, HARVESTED AREA AND YIELD IN 2007-20154.2 PRODUCTION BY COUNTRY4.3 HARVESTED AREA AND YIELD BY COUNTRY5. IMPORTS5.1 IMPORTS IN 2007-20155.2 IMPORTS BY COUNTRY5.3 IMPORT PRICES BY COUNTRY6. EXPORTS6.1 EXPORTS IN 2007-20156.2 EXPORTS BY COUNTRY6.3 EXPORT PRICES BY COUNTRY7. PRICES AND PRICE DEVELOPMENT7.1 PRODUCER PRICES7.2 PRODUCER PRICES INDEX8. PROFILES OF MAJOR PRODUCERSDownload a free sample of the report now!You can also find a template on SlideShareIndexBox is a leading market research publisher in the world. We conduct market research and publish reports.You can find more than 25,000 research reports in our web store, which cover global industries and regional markets. All the worldwide marketing data you need is at your fingertips.We collect this data from hundreds of highly reliable sources, verify it and carry out market analysis, uncovering new business opportunities and empowering you with actionable insights.The structure of our reports is intuitive and clear. We do our best to allow you to make strategic decisions and take immediate action. If you want to go further and be a step ahead of the market, just tell us your goals and we will tailor a report to your needs.Company Name: IndexBoxContact Person: Kirill BezverhiEmail: kirill.bezverhi@indexbox.co.ukPhone: +44 20 3239 3063Adress: United Kingdom, 44 Main Street, Douglas, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, ML11 0QWWebsite:
Crate Handling Machines Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2016 - 2026
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Crate handling machines are used as a system to drop and pick up boxes and trays across several industry verticals including food and beverages, textile, agri-processing as well as logistics and supply chain. Crate handling machines is automatic controlled machine which need minimal manual intervention for moving crates.Plant operators across the globe realized the benefits of using crate handling machines, as these are suitable for large and heavy product movement, increase in productivity, and reduction in manual work and facilitates easy handling of crates. Industry stakeholders urge to leverage the expanding opportunity propelled them to move to automated machines, along with F&B sectors growth catalyzed the global crate handling machines market. Depending on the speed requirement, crate handling machines either comes as a pneumatic or servo driven mechanisms. Though, in markets which are largely characterized by high degree of automation, the servo driven model is largely preferred over the previous.Browse Market Research Report @Crate Handling Machines Market : Market DynamicsCrate handling machines market growth is largely attributed by growth in F&B, which is poised to grow at a CAGR of over 5% over next three years. The industry is likely to create an estimated 1.2X more opportunity than all other end use industries. Apart from food and beverages, crate handling machines are also preferred in fast moving consumer good manufacturing plants, where unit products within the plant are transported using crates. Pharmaceutical is one of such end use industry where the usage of crate handling machines has increase reasonably over the past few years. Furthermore, the need of pharmaceutical companies to operate on maximum efficiency pushed them to integrate crate handling machines with regular operations, thus creating for crate handling machine manufacturers to design products dedicated to pharmaceutical companies or redesign products strategy to meet pharma producers demand.Make an Enquiry @A dynamic boost experience in global crate handling machines market is due to the stringent labor laws, that indirectly created demand from brownfield projects. Crate handling machines minimizes the role of labor in product management, which is a profitable investment for end use industries. Despite all the favorable market dynamics, the product still faced substantial challenge in penetrating the high potential market. The global crate handling machine market is characterized by fragmented competition, where rarely any multinational company have been able to mark significant market presence, which prevents large scale technology up gradation in the products.Crate Handling machines: Market SegmentationCrate handling machines market is segmented based on product type, technology as well as end use/application, along with regional focus for each of these segments. In terms of product type, crate handling machines market is segmented into crate stacking system, crate de-stacking systems and crate managing systems. All three equipment form an automated crate handling machines, that are predominantly used in end use industries such as food and beverage, FMCG, textile and pharmaceuticals and several others. Transportation and Logistics, auto-ancillary, fisheries, horticulture, produce processing are other end use industries which have generated significant interest in crate handling machines market over the past few years and positive growth sentiments in these industries, the growth in global crate handling machine market is evident.Crate handling Machines: Key StakeholdersFew of the key players operating in this space include NDA Group, Glenside Engineering Limited, Dyno NZ, Fibre King Pty Ltd, intralox, Crating Technologies, Packing Service, Inc. (PSI), REB Storage Systems International, R+L Carriers and Timber Creek Resource, Rentacrate, PHS Teacrate and Crate Hire UK.Crate handling Machines: Regional OutlookIn terms of geography, global crate handling machines market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific. Since, the growth of crate handling machines market is largely dependent on food and beverage industry, it is more likely that the product will witness meteoric growth in the Asia Pacific market. High potential markets such as India and China continue to lead the growth momentum over 8% over the forecast period, and will also attract multinational players, which so far have been pretty dormant in these regional markets. In developed markets, the global crate handling machine market is slightly matured than Asian market. In these markets close to 30% share is accounted by established players, which in recent times witnessed competition from crate handling machine suppliers from India as well China. The market growth in these markets is anticipated to remain slightly sluggish.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Laparoscopy Devices Market to experience increase in growth by 2016-2024
Laparoscopy Devices Market
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Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used as a diagnostic tool and surgical procedure that is performed to recognize the abdominal and pelvic organs, head, etc. Laparoscopic device is consisting tube that is inserted through the abdominal wall and illuminated to enable a surgeon to view the internal organs. A laparoscopy device basically comprises reusable, reposable & single instruments, advanced RF energy and reusable trocar solutions. Laparoscopy uses images to recognize and diagnose the disease.The laparoscopy devices market mainly is driven by growing aged population and health awareness regarding obesity. Additionally, rising cholecystectomy surgeries and other surgeries are expected to boost the market growth over forecast period. Asia Pacific and Latin America will also have potential to open new opportunities to this market in the years to come. However, scarcity of expertise in research and development and high cost surgery is expected to hamper growth of laparoscopy devices industry.Get Sample Research Report at:The global laparoscopy devices market is segmented based on equipment, application and regional. Based on equipment, laparoscopy market is classified into laparoscopes, trocars, sample retrieval bags, wound protectors, insufflation devices, internal closure devices, gastric bands, energy systems and hand-assist devices. Laparoscopic energy device was the largest segment of this market owing to their advanced technology. Laparoscopy devices used in various applications including general surgery, urological surgery, bariatric surgery, gynecological surgery and colorectal surgery. General surgery dominated segment of laparoscopy market and expected to exhibit moderate growth over the forecast period. Bariatric surgery is another key application and is expected to be fastest growing segment in the years to come.Report covers Porters Five Forces model, which offers an insight into the intensity of competition in the market. The study also comprises market attractiveness analysis, wherein various applications are benchmarked based on their market size, growth rate, and general attractiveness. Geographically, the market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa, further bifurcation of region on the country level, which include U.S., Germany, UK, France, China, Japan and India. Demand has been analyzed and forecast based on the current trends for the period of six years. North America was leading segment of laparoscopy devices market followed by Europe.Browse the full report at:The report covers detailed competitive scenario including the company overviews, financial revenues of the key participants to develop their positions in the global market. Some of the major players in laparoscopy market such as Smith & Nephew, Karl Storz, Boston Scientific Corporation, Stryker, Intuitive Surgical, Olympus, Covidien, Aesculap, ConMed and Karl Storz.Laparoscopy Devices Market: Equipment Segment AnalysisLaparoscopesTrocarsSample Retrieval BagsWound ProtectorsInsufflation DevicesInternal Closure DevicesGastric BandsEnergy SystemsHand-Assist DevicesLaparoscopy Devices Market: Application Segment AnalysisGeneral SurgeryUrological SurgeryBariatric SurgeryGynecological SurgeryColorectal SurgeryLaparoscopy Devices Market: Regional Segment AnalysisNorth AmericaU.S.EuropeUKFranceGermanyAsia PacificChinaJapanIndiaLatin AmericaBrazilMiddle East & AfricaAbout UsSyndicate Market Research provides a range of marketing and business research solutions designed for our clients specific needs based on our expert resources. The business scopes of Syndicate Market Research cover more than 30 industries includsing energy, new materials, transportation, daily consumer goods, chemicals, etc. We provide our clients with one-stop solution for all the research requirements.Contact US:Joel John3422 SW 15 Street,Suit #8138Deerfield Beach,Florida 33442United StatesToll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-386-310-3803Email: sales@syndicatemarketresearch.comWebsite:
SureCash Disburses Education Stipend to 10 Million Families in Bangladesh
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina launching the project
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Dhaka, Bangladesh SureCash launched a service to disburse government stipend to 10 million mothers in Bangladesh. The program was inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina using video conferencing with beneficiaries in 3 districts.The Prime Minister said, Government is disbursing primary education stipend directly to mobile banking accounts of 10 million mothers. Now mothers will get stipend money sitting at home. They do not have to take long walks or spend a few hours to get this education incentive. Now people in rural areas are also getting the benefits of advanced digital services.Advocate Mustafizur Rahman, minister for Primary and Mass Education, said, We have opened mobile banking accounts for 10 million mothers in a very short time in collaboration with 60,000 schools. SureCash, Rupali Bank and our ministry worked closely to implement this large project.SureCash CEO Dr. Shahadat Khan said, SureCash offers a complete mobile payment service for its customers and payment partners including people, businesses and government. We are glad to be part of the largest payment digitization project in the country reaching 10 million families in 80,000 villages.SureCash is the fastest growing fintech company in Bangladesh. Since launching its services in 2014, SureCash has created an open payment network in partnership with 5 banks, 650 payment partners and more than 100,000 retailers around the country. Customers can make and receive payments from government or businesses, pay school and college fees, pay utility bills, make ecommerce transactions, and make person-to-person (P2P) transfers.In recent years, mobile financial services have made phenomenal progress in Bangladesh, a country of 160 million people. Early providers focused on P2P transfers and mobile phone recharges using exclusive bank relationships. Today, SureCash is the leading provider working with multiple banks that focuses on the vast and largely untapped mobile payments space, where transaction volume is expected to reach 150 billion USD by 2021.About SureCash Pte LtdSureCash is the fastest growing fintech company in Bangladesh. Since launching its services in 2014, SureCash has created an open payment network in partnership with 5 banks, 650 payment partners and more than 100,000 retailers in Bangladesh. Customers can make and receive payments from government or businesses, pay school and college fees, pay utility bills, make ecommerce transactions, and make person-to-person (P2P) transfers.Web:Facebook:Email: pr@surecash.net- Progoti Systems Limited- 76/B, Road:11, Banani 11, Dhaka, Bangladesh - 1213
Matrix to Showcase its Enterprise-grade Telecom and Security Solutions at DEFCOM India, 2017
Matrix, a well-known manufacturer of Telecom and Security solutions is participating in DEFCOM India17 organized on 23rd and 24th March17 in New Delhi. DEFCOM is an ICT event, where defense personnel get a glimpse of the modern communication technologies.Matrix, with a strong history of offering robust hardware to armed forces, will showcase its diversified range of IP-PBX, User Terminals, Media Gateways, Voice and Data Convergence and Unified Communication solution at the event.The major highlight of the event will be the all new Unified Communication solution - SARVAM. With an objective of providing mobility in extreme circumstances and resilient connectivity between headquarters and field area deployments, SARVAM UCS caters the exact needs of the Defense industry. The perfect combination of Unified Networks, Rugged Architecture and Radio connectivity (UHF/VHF/HF) makes it an ideal solution for the Defense Industry. With IP at its core, SARVAM UCS offers connectivity up to 1000 IP users, 128 IP channels VOIP trunking and VARTA for Mobile and PC client as office extensions for smooth communication, regardless of the military personnels location.Moreover, Matrix will also showcase the UC Client for Seamless Collaboration. VARTA empowers the on-field defense personnel to use their extension from the Desktop or Android/iOS devices. Matrix VARTA WIN200 Outlook integration allows the military men to attend/place calls from their Outlook screen. Click to Dial, Hot Keys, Calendar Integration, Presence Sharing, Video Calling, Conference and Contact Grouping makes communication easy.Matrix, under the Security domain, will demonstrate its dedicated range of Biometric Access Control and Visitor Management solutions and its advanced applications for the Defense industry. Matrix will demonstrate COSEC DOOR FMX as a high-performance door controller with multispectral sensor. The device is powerful enough to read fingerprints of dry, wet, elderly or oily hands. In addition, Matrix will present its Access Control solution where one can connect up to 6,50,000 devices and one million users with a web based centralized application. The solution offers biometric authentication restricting access to authorized persons as well as visitors. Hardware with multiple credentials such as Palm Vein, Fingerprint and RFID Card would be displayed. User identification through biometric credential would be demonstrated.DEFCOM India 2017 is a great platform for meeting Defense personnel, understand their requirements and let them know how Matrix Telecom and Security solutions can cater to their needs. We look forward to meet some key decision makers from the Defense forces and improve their experience on Telecom and Security products, said Sagar Gosalia, Senior VP Sales and Marketing.Matrix cordially invites you to visit us at Stand Number: 16, Hall: Silver Oak, DEFCOM India 2017 to be held on 23rd and 24th March17 at India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi and have a hands-on experience of our technologically advanced Telecom and Security solutions.________________________________________________________________________________ABOUT MATRIXEstablished in 1991, Matrix is a leader in Telecom and Security solutions for modern businesses and enterprises. An innovative, technology driven and customer focused organization, Matrix is committed to keep pace with the revolutions in the telecom and security industries. With more than 40% of its human resources dedicated to the development of new products, Matrix has launched cutting-edge products like IP-PBX, Universal Gateways, VoIP Gateways and Terminals, GSM Gateways, Access Control, Time-Attendance and Video Surveillance solutions. These solutions are feature-rich, reliable and conform to the international standards. Having global footprints in Asia, Europe, North America, South America and Africa through an extensive network of more than 500 channel partners, Matrix ensures that the products serve the needs of its customers faster and longer. Matrix has gained trust and admiration of customers representing the entire spectrum of industries. Matrix has won many international awards for its innovative products.Matrix Comsec394 GIDC, Makarpura, Vadodara-390010
Amsterdam, 3 March 2017 (Regulated Information) --- AMG Advanced Metallurgical Group N.V. ("AMG", EURONEXT AMSTERDAM: "AMG") is pleased to announce that its subsidiary AMG Mineracao, Brazil ("the Company"), has signed a multi-year contract to supply 90,000 tons per year of lithium concentrate, for conversion into lithium chemicals, with deliveries commencing in the second half of 2018.
Sales prices under the agreement are partially indexed to the published market price of lithium carbonate, subject to a contractual minimum threshold. The sales price (CIF China), determined with reference to the current published lithium carbonate market price, would exceed $800 per ton lithium concentrate.
In October 2016, the Company awarded an EPC contract to Outotec Oyj, Finland, for the turnkey delivery of a lithium concentrate (spodumene) beneficiation plant at its Mibra mine in Brazil, with an annual production capacity of 90,000 tons. The spodumene plant is expected to be operational mid-2018.
AMG Mineracao is currently undertaking a drilling program at its Mibra mine in Brazil and expects to publish an updated mineral resource statement in the second quarter of 2017. The Company targets to double its annual lithium concentrate production capacity to 180,000 tons by end of 2019.
The recovery of lithium-bearing minerals from existing tailings, a by-product of AMG's tantalum operations in Brazil, is expected to result in a cost-leading production process.
This press release contains inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.
This press release contains regulated information as defined in the Dutch Financial Markets Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht).
About AMG
AMG is a global critical materials company at the forefront of CO 2 reduction trends. AMG produces highly engineered specialty metals and mineral products and provides related vacuum furnace systems and services to the transportation, infrastructure, energy, and specialty metals & chemicals end markets.
AMG produces aluminum master alloys and powders, titanium alloys and coatings, ferrovanadium, natural graphite, chromium metal, antimony, tantalum, niobium and silicon metal. AMG Engineering designs and produces vacuum furnace equipment and systems used to produce and upgrade specialty metals and alloys for the transportation, automotive, infrastructure, and energy markets.
With approximately 3,000 employees, AMG operates globally with production facilities in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Czech Republic, United States, China, Mexico, Brazil and Sri Lanka, and has sales and customer service offices in Russia and Japan (www.amg-nv.com).
For further information, please contact:
AMG Advanced Metallurgical Group N.V. +1 610 293 5804
Steve Daniels
Senior Vice President
sdaniels@amg-nv.com
Global High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Market Report 2017 - Industry Share, Size, Trends & Forecast to 2022
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Qyresearchreports include new market research report "Global High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Market Research Report 2017" to its huge collection of research reports.The High-Performance Electric Motorcycle, is being discussed in this report, from the point of view of all its current trends and factors of influence. It is necessary to comprehend this data to generate a highly sound solution for your business strategies. These trends are based on the movements within the markets socioeconomic, geographical, economic, political, consumer, and cultural aspects. The report gauges their overall effect for a client or consumer and enlists the various preferences that will have a major say in what the shape of this market is likely to be in the years to come.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The report similar to all reports that are added to this repository is a holistic snapshot of the High-Performance Electric Motorcycle and descriptive view market. It elaborates on the dynamics of the market, and extrapolates the statistics relevant to the scope of growth in its key segments and regions, as well as other parameters that have been so far effective during its expansion in terms of value addition and calculation of size. This study is therefore a quantitative and qualitative one, focused on providing a clear vision of all conceivable situations in the High-Performance Electric Motorcycle for the given forecast period.The High-Performance Electric Motorcycle is also presented in such a way as to create a 360 degree perspective of the competitive landscape that currently exists, and is likely to exist within the given forecast period. It presents a comparative analysis of the leaders as well as the regions they operate in, thereby giving readers a better awareness of the segments where they can appoint their existing resources and judge the priority of a particular region or segment to shuttle their standing upwards in the overall market.Browse Complete Report with TOC @Table of Contents1 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of High-Performance Electric Motorcycle1.2 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Segment by Type1.2.1 Global Production Market Share of High-Performance Electric Motorcycle by Type in 20151.2.2 Type I1.2.3 Type II1.3 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Segment by Application1.3.1 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Consumption Market Share by Application in 20151.3.2 Application 11.3.3 Application 21.3.4 Application 31.4 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Market by Region1.4.1 North America Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.2 Europe Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 China Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 Japan Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 India Status and Prospect (2012-2022)2 Global High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Production and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.2 Global High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.3 Global High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Average Price by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.4 Manufacturers High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion7 Global High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 Energica7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Its Competitors7.1.2 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Product Type, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 Energica High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2015 and 2016)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Lightning Motorcycles7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Its Competitors7.2.2 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Product Type, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 Lightning Motorcycles High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2015 and 2016)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 Victory Motorcycles7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Its Competitors7.3.2 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Product Type, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 Victory Motorcycles High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2015 and 2016)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Zero Motorcycles7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Its Competitors7.4.2 High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Product Type, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Product A7.4.2.2 Product B7.4.3 Zero Motorcycles High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2015 and 2016)7.4.4 Main Business/Business OverviewList of Tables and FiguresFigure Picture of High-Performance Electric MotorcycleFigure Global Production Market Share of High-Performance Electric Motorcycle by Type in 2015Figure Product Picture of Type ITable Major Manufacturers of Type IFigure Product Picture of Type IITable Major Manufacturers of Type IITable High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Consumption Market Share by Application in 2015Figure Application 1 ExamplesFigure Application 2 ExamplesFigure North America High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Figure Europe High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Figure China High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)Figure Japan High-Performance Electric Motorcycle Revenue (Million USD) and Growth Rate (2012-2022)For Latest Market Research Reports Visit @QYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. 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Global Nail Polish Industry Report 2017 - Market Outlook, Trends, Key Opportunities and Forecast to 2022
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Qyresearchreports include new market research report "Global Nail Polish Industry Report 2017" to its huge collection of research reports.The research report on the Nail Polish market includes an evaluation of all critical aspects underlying it. The report is intended to be a guidance document for readers, so they may learn of the markets key trends and dynamics, current as well as future ones. This report was compiled with the intention of aiding the readers to make well-informed business and strategic decisions for their benefit, while moving towards a prosperous tomorrow. The reports overview of the Nail Polish market includes brief descriptions, definitions, classifications, and terms that are used in the report henceforth. This lets the users gain a better understanding of the data provided in the report.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The research report classifies the Nail Polish market on the basis of multiple relevant categories, including a complete regional assessment. The segmentations let users completely acknowledge and understand the magnitude of each of the markets drivers, restraints, threats, and opportunities. It also analyzes the Nail Polish market on a macroscopic level to help analyze the various sources influences in each region, thereby revealing the diverse nature of the market.The research report also incorporates a chapter-wise study specifically dissects the competitive landscape of the Nail Polish market. This chapter examines the scenario of the Nail Polish market in terms of political influence and thus assesses the various effects of the regulatory pressure exerted by the government. It also profiles some of the key companies in the Nail Polish market and also shares details of their financial statuses, progress in research and development efforts, mergers and acquisitions and their strategic importance, and outlook of the Nail Polish market in terms of investments for the coming years.Browse Complete Report with TOC @Table of Contents1 Industry Overview of Nail Polish11.1 Definition and Specifications of Nail Polish11.1.1 Definition of Nail Polish11.1.2 Specifications of Nail Polish11.2 Classification of Nail Polish21.2.1 Organic solvent based nail polish41.2.2 Water based nail polish51.3 Applications of Nail Polish61.3.1 Nail art institutions61.3.2 Individuals71.4 Industry Chain Structure of Nail Polish91.5 Industry Overview and Major Regions Status of Nail Polish91.5.1 Industry Overview of Nail Polish91.5.2 Global Major Regions Status of Nail Polish101.6 Industry Policy Analysis of Nail Polish101.7 Industry News Analysis of Nail Polish132 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Nail Polish152.1 Raw Material Suppliers and Price Analysis of Nail Polish152.2 Equipment Suppliers and Price Analysis of Nail Polish152.3 Labor Cost Analysis of Nail Polish162.4 Other Costs Analysis of Nail Polish172.5 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Nail Polish182.6 Manufacturing Process Analysis of Nail Polish188 Major Manufacturers Analysis of Nail Polish928.1 OPI928.1.1 Company Profile928.1.2 Product Picture and Specifications948.1.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue948.1.4 Contact Information968.2 ZOTOS ACCENT968.2.1 Company Profile968.2.2 Product Picture and Specifications978.2.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue978.2.4 Contact Information998.3 Maybelline998.3.1 Company Profile998.3.2 Product Picture and Specifications1018.3.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue1018.3.4 Contact Information1038.4 Dior1038.4.1 Company Profile1038.4.2 Product Picture and Specifications1048.4.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue1058.4.4 Contact Information106List of Tables and FiguresFigure Picture of Nail Polish1Table Product Specifications of Nail Polish1Table Classification of Nail Polish2Figure Global Production Market Share of Nail Polish by Types in 20153Figure Organic solvent based nail polish Picture4Table Major Manufacturers of Organic solvent based nail polish4Figure Water based nail polish Picture5Table Major Manufacturers of Water based nail polish5Table Applications of Nail Polish6Figure Global Consumption Volume Market Share of Nail Polish by Applications in 20156Figure Nail art institutions Examples7Figure Individuals Examples8Figure Industry Chain Structure of Nail Polish9Table Global Nail Polish Major Manufacturers9For Latest Market Research Reports Visit @QYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United States
Biopower Market - Global Market Size, Average Price, Major Feedstock, Regulations, and Key Country Analysis to 2025
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ALBANY, NY, March 3, 2017 : ResearchMoz presents professional and in-depth study of "Biopower Market - Global Market Size, Average Price, Major Feedstock, Regulations, and Key Country Analysis to 2025"."Biopower Market - Global Market Size, Average Price, Major Feedstock, Regulations, and Key Country Analysis to 2025", the latest report from industry analysis specialist GlobalData, offers comprehensive information and analysis of the global biopower market.Get PDF for more Professional and Technical insights @The report provides a clear overview of and detailed insight into the global biopower market. It provides data covering historic and forecast market size, average capital cost, installed capacity and generation for biomass and biogas power globally, and in ten key biopower markets - US, Brazil, China, India, Thailand, Japan, Germany, UK, France and Italy. The report analyzes key market aspects which determine biopower sector and provides information on feedstock potential, installed capacity share by feedstock type and key regulations.The report uses data and information sourced from proprietary databases, primary and secondary research, and in-house analysis by GlobalDatas team of industry experts.ScopeThe report includes -- Biopower market study at global level and at key country level, covering countries such as US, Brazil, China, India, Thailand, Japan, Germany, UK, France and Italy- Historic and forecast data for cumulative and annual installed power capacity and power generation for biopower- Historic data installed capacity is segmented based on biogas and biomass technologies- Information on feedstock potential and installed capacity share by feedstock type- Analysis on major market forces driving or restraining the growth of biopower market at global level- Market size and average capital cost data at country and global level- Statistics related to average turbine size, GHG emission reductions, employment opportunities, homes powered, turbine import export- Key policies supporting the development of biopower market1 Table of Contents 41.1 List of Tables 121.2 List of Figures 182 Introduction 232.1 Biopower Market, Major Feedstocks 232.1.1 Bioenergy Crops 232.1.2 Agricultural Residues 242.1.3 Forest Products 242.1.4 Animal Manure 252.2 Biopower Market, Feedstock Conversion Processes 252.2.1 Direct Combustion 252.2.2 Thermochemical processes 262.2.3 Biochemical Processes 272.3 Biopower Market, Primary Energy Conversion and Recovery Technology 282.3.1 Biopower Market, Primary Energy Conversion and Recovery Technology, Comparison 282.3.2 Biopower Market, Primary Energy Conversion and Recovery Technology, Major Vendors 292.3.3 Biopower Market, Primary Energy Conversion and Recovery Technology, Major Challenges 302.3.4 Biopower Market, Primary Energy Conversion and Recovery Technology, Future Developments 312.4 GlobalData Report Guidance 31Make an Enquiry of this report @3 Biopower Market, Global 323.1 Biopower Market, Global, Overview 323.2 Biopower Market, Global, Installed Capacity, 2006-2025 333.2.1 Biopower Market, Global, Cumulative Installed Capacity by Type, 2006-2015 343.2.2 Biopower Market, Global, Net Annual Additions by Type, 2006-2015 363.3 Biopower Market, Global, Generation, 2006-2025 373.4 Biopower Market, Global, Average Capital Cost, 2006-2025 403.4.1 Biopower Market, Global, Average Capital Cost by Region, 2015 41ResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.ResearchMoz90 State Street,Albany, NY 12207,United States
Hospital Beds Market is Driven by Increasing Number of Hospitalization Cases and Technological Advancements in the Field
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Beds are among the most essential equipment required in a hospital, as patients are generally not in mobile condition to receive the treatment, and rest is often necessary for them. For the critical conditions that patients are admitted into the hospital, beds are required to be designed in such a manner that provides ideal support and comfort. With growing prevalence of several diseases, the healthcare industry is at an all-time peak and consequently, the global hospital beds market is projected for a healthy growth rate during the forecast period of 2016 to 2024.Obtain Report Details @This report on global market for hospital beds is an in-depth examination of all the factors that are expected to impact the growth rate in the near future, and presents estimations on the future state of the market until 2024. The report is a summation of interviews and discussions with a wide range of key industry participants and opinion leaders. Some of the key players have also been profiled in the report, exploring their market share, product range, regional presence, and recent strategic developments such as mergers, collaborations, acquisitions, and other announcements.The global hospital beds can be segmented on the basis of type, treatment, power, and geography. By type, the market can be divided into general beds, pediatric beds, pressure relief beds, bariatric beds, and birthing beds. By treatment, the market can be categorized into acute care beds, long term care beds, and critical care beds. By power, the market can be segmented into electric beds, manual beds, and semi-electric beds. Geographically, the report studies the opportunities available in the regions of North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Rest of the World.Rising geriatric population is one of the prominent factors of this market, as the people aged over 65 generally suffer from several diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, respiratory diseases, Alzheimers diseases, osteoporosis, and diabetes. According to the National Institute on Aging, global geriatric population will rise to 1.5 billion, which makes for a strong demand for hospital beds. Increasing number of hospitalization cases and technological advancements in the field, and improving healthcare infrastructure in emerging economies are other important factors positively influencing the market.Fill the Form for an Exclusive Sample of this Report @According to the report, rising demand for advanced and selective features of hospital beds is a trend that urges investment in research and development of advanced beds. Conversely, high cost of these beds is seen as the primary restraint over the growth rate of the global hospitals beds market.Europe is expected to remain most lucrative regional market during the forecast period, which is a reflection of increasing expenditure in Europes medical industry and healthcare organizations. North America forms the second most profitable region due to robust healthcare infrastructure, whereas Asia Pacific is projected for most robust growth rate, which is a result of vast population base and improving healthcare infrastructure in the emerging economies such as India, China, Japan, Australia, and South Korea.Paramount Bed Co. Ltd., Getinge Group, LINET spol. s r.o., ArjoHuntleigh, Stryker, Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc., Invacare Corporation, and Medline Industries, Inc. are some of the key players currently operational in the global hospital beds market. Most of these companies have sub-divisional production units in order to meet the demand coming from medical establishments that are replacing their outdated hospital beds with the advanced ones.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Contact UsTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
North America Facial Injectables Market is Expected to Reach US$5.8 bn by 2024
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The North America facial injectables market is quite monopolistic in nature with one player dominating the overall market dynamics. As of 2016, Allergan Plc., held a share 62.0% in the regional market. The company dominance is a result of the strong brand value of its drugs like Botox & Juvederm. Presently, Botox is leading the market and is expected to retain its stance all throughout 2024.According to the research report, the North America facial injectables market is expected to reach a valuation of US$5.8 bn by the end of 2024 as compared to US$2.1 bn by the end of 2015. Between the forecast years of 2016 and 2024, the global market is expected to rise at a CAGR of 12.0%.Browse Market Research Report @The overall market has been segmented into the U.S. and Canada on the basis of geography. Out of the two countries, the U.S. is expected to assume the lead in the overall market due to a high demand for botulinum toxins and dermal fillers. Improving lifestyles and growing preference for minimally invasive surgeries are expected to drive the demand for facial injectables across the U.S.In terms of products, the market is segmented into botulinum toxin, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and particle and polymer fillers. Of these, the botulinum toxin segment held a leading share in the global market in 2015 as it is predominantly being used for correcting lines, creases, and wrinkles. Thus, between 2016 and 2024, the botulinum toxin segment is estimated to exhibit a CAGR of 12.7%.Development of synthetic products with polymers and particles has upped the demand for facial injectables across North America. The new products have a longer shelf-life, which prolongs the need to re-treatment. Thus, the widening availability of facial injectables that tend to have permanent effects is driving the demand for products in the overall market. Furthermore, as the frequency of treatment is reduced it has also brought down the cost of facial injectables treatment, thus making it affordable.Fill the Form for an Exclusive Sample of this Report @The market for facial injectables across North America has also been flourishing against the backdrop of growing preference for minimally invasive surgeries. Thus, the growing inclination toward minimally invasive procedures in dermatological applications is expected to drive the overall market. The growing focus on aesthetics and physical attractiveness are proving to be the persuasive factors in the propelling demand for facial injectables in North America. Changing lifestyles, rising disposable incomes, and altering understanding of beauty and attractiveness is encouraging several users to opt for facial injectables that can reverse the signs of aging to restore the youthful glow.The strength of aforementioned market drivers is likely to be challenged by a few restraints in the North America facial injectables market. The possibility of allergic reactions due to the involvement of living organisms and related chemicals and enzymes is anticipated to hamper the growth of the overall market. Furthermore, side-effects such as edema, bleeding, and bruising are also expected to restrain the growth of the regional market. The poor reimbursement policies associated with facial injectables are expected to curb the spending on these expenditures in the near future.This review is based on Transparency Market Researchs report, titled Facial Injectables Market - North America Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2016 - 2024.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Contact UsTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Global Gems and Jewelry Industry 2016 Market Research Report
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Gems and Jewelry MarketSummaryWiseguyreports.Com Adds Gems and Jewelry -Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities, Analysis and Forecast to 2021 To Its Research DatabaseThe Global Gems and Jewelry Industry 2016 Market Research Report is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the Gems and Jewelry industry.The report provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The Gems and Jewelry market analysis is provided for the international markets including development trends, competitive landscape analysis, and key regions development status.For Sample report @Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures are also analyzed. This report also states import/export consumption, supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins.The report focuses on global major leading industry players providing information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information. Upstream raw materials and equipment and downstream demand analysis is also carried out. The Gems and Jewelry industry development trends and marketing channels are analyzed. Finally the feasibility of new investment projects are assessed and overall research conclusions offered.With 344 tables and figures the report provides key statistics on the state of the industry and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the market.Enquiry before buying @Table of Contents1 Industry Overview of Gems and Jewelry1.1 Definition and Specifications of Gems and Jewelry1.1.1 Definition of Gems and Jewelry1.1.2 Specifications of Gems and Jewelry1.2 Classification of Gems and Jewelry1.3 Applications of Gems and Jewelry1.4 Industry Chain Structure of Gems and Jewelry1.5 Industry Overview and Major Regions Status of Gems and Jewelry1.6 Industry Policy Analysis of Gems and Jewelry1.7 Industry News Analysis of Gems and Jewelry2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Gems and Jewelry2.1 Raw Material Analysis2.2 Equipment Suppliers Analysis2.3 Labor Cost Analysis2.4 Other Cost Analysis2.5 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis2.6 Gems?and?Jewelry Manufacturing Process Analysis in 2015..8 Major Manufacturers Analysis of Gems and Jewelry8.1 Chow Tai Fook8.1.1 Company Profile8.1.2 Product Picture and Specifications8.1.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.1.4 Contact Information8.2 Richemont8.2.1 Company Profile8.2.2 Richemont Product8.2.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.2.4 Contact Information8.3 Signet Jewellers8.3.1 Company Profile8.3.2 Signet Jewellers Product8.3.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.3.4 Contact Information8.4 Swatch Group8.4.1 Company Profile8.4.2 Swatch Group Product8.4.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.4.4 Contact Information8.5 Rajesh Exports8.5.1 Company Profile8.5.2 Rajesh Exports Product8.5.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.5.4 Contact Information8.6 Lao Feng Xiang8.6.1 Company Profile8.6.2 Lao Feng Xiang Product8.6.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.6.4 Contact Information8.7 Tiffany8.7.1 Company Profile8.7.2 Tiffany Product8.7.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.8.4 Contact Information8.8 Malabar Gold and Diamonds8.8.1 Company Profile8.8.2 Malabar Gold and Diamonds Product8.8.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.8.4 Contact Information8.9 LVMH Moet Hennessy8.9.1 Company Profile8.9.2 LVMH Moet Hennessy Product8.9.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.9.4 Contact Information8.10 Shanghai Yuyuan8.10.1 Company Profile8.10.2 Shanghai Yuyuan Product8.10.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.10.4 Contact Information8.11 Daniel Swarovski8.11.1 Company Profile8.11.2 Daniel Swarovski Product8.11.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.11.4 Contact Information8.12 Chow Sang Sang8.12.1 Company Profile8.12.2 Chow Sang Sang Product8.12.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.12.4 Contact Information8.13 Luk Fook8.13.1 Company Profile8.13.2 Luk Fook Product8.13.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.13.4 Contact Information8.14 Pandora8.14.1 Company Profile8.14.2 Pandora Product8.14.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.14.4 Contact Information8.15 Titan8.15.1 Company Profile8.15.2 Titan Product8.15.3 Capacity, Production, Price, Cost, Gross and Revenue8.15.4 Contact Information.Buy This Report @Continued...Contact Us:NORAH TRENTSales@Wiseguyreports.ComPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRES:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
Specialty Zeolites Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, Forecast and Opportunities 2016 - 2024
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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Specialty Zeolites Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024 " to it's Large Report database.Global Specialty Zeolites Market: OverviewSpecialty zeolites are types of zeolites that require specialty synthesis, primarily high-pressure synthesis. Some specialty organic additives are also added during crystallization/synthesis. Small quantity of specialty zeolites are used for adsorption purposes in paints & coatings, plastics, personal care, and construction materials.The report estimates and forecasts the specialty zeolites market on the global, regional, and country levels. The study provides forecast between 2016 and 2024 based on volume (tons) and revenue (US$ Mn) with 2015 as the base year. The report comprises an exhaustive value chain analysis for each of the end-use segments. It provides a comprehensive view of the market. The study includes drivers and restraints for the specialty zeolites market along with their impact on demand during the forecast period. The study also provides key market indicators affecting the growth of the market. The report analyzes opportunities in the specialty zeolites market on the global and regional level. Furthermore, the report analyzes substitutes of specialty zeolites. It also provides the global average price trend analysis.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:Global Specialty Zeolites Market: Research MethodologiesThe report includes Porters Five Forces Model to determine the degree of competition in the specialty zeolites market. The report comprises a qualitative write-up on market attractiveness analysis, wherein end-use and countries have been analyzed based on attractiveness for each region. Growth rate, market size, raw material availability, profit margin, impact strength, technology, competition, and other factors (such as environmental and legal) have been evaluated in order to derive the general attractiveness of the market.The study provides a comprehensive view of the specialty zeolites market by dividing it into end-use and geography. In terms of end-use, the specialty zeolites market has been segmented into plastics, paints & coatings, construction materials and personal care. End-use segments have been analyzed based on historic, present, and future trends, and the market has been estimated in terms of volume (tons) and revenue (US$ Mn) between 2016 and 2024.Read All Chemicals Market Research Reports @Table of ContentChapter 01 Preface1.1 Report Scope and Market Segmentation1.2 Research HighlightsChapter 02 Assumptions and Research Methodology2.1 Assumptions and Acronyms Used2.2 Research MethodologyChapter 03 Executive Summary3.1 Global Specialty Zeolites Market: Market Size, by Value (US$ Mn), by RegionChapter 04 Market Overview4.1 Product Overview4.2 Key Industry Developments4.3 Market IndicatorsChapter 05 Market Dynamics5.1 Drivers and Restraints Snapshot Analysis5.2 Drivers5.3 Restraints5.4 Opportunity Analysis5.5 Specialty Zeolites Market: Global Demand Supply Scenario5.6 Global Specialty Zeolites Market Analysis and Forecast5.7 Porters Analysis5.8 Value Chain AnalysisAbout ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's fastest growing collection of market research reports worldwide. Our database is composed of current market studies from over 100 featured publishers worldwide. Our market research databases integrate statistics with analysis from global, regional, country and company perspectives. ResearchMoz's service portfolio also includes value-added services such as market research customization, competitive landscaping, and in-depth surveys, delivered by a team of experienced Research Coordinators.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:
IQ4I Research & Consultancy published a new report on Interventional Cardiology Global Market Forecast To 2023
Interventional cardiology deals with the catheter based techniques for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as coronary and peripheral artery diseases, valvular and congenital heart diseases and structural heart diseases. Interventional cardiology market is growing at a steady rate, as estimated by IQ4I Research the interventional cardiology global is expected to grow at high single digit CAGR to reach $46,124.1 million by 2023. Increase in prevalence of cardiovascular disorders due to rise in aging population, increasing number of interventional procedures, rise in the number of clinical studies performed, increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases are some of the drivers of the market. Technology advancements and growing healthcare budgetary allocation, growth in emerging countries, and increase in patient awareness for minimal invasive surgeries are some of the opportunities that are propelling the growth of the market. However, lack of skilled and trained professionals and reimbursement issues in emerging countries are some of the restraints of the market. Stringent regulatory requirements with high cost of development and availability of alternate products are some of the threats of the market.The Interventional cardiology global market by products is segmented into catheters, stents, valves, interventional diagnostic devices, transcatheter heart pump and others. Interventional cardiology market by applications includes diagnostic catheterization, coronary interventions, peripheral interventions and structural heart.Among the products stents held the highest share due to wide acceptance of stent procedures, a minimal invasive surgery with less risk of complications than open surgery. Transcatheter heart pump segment is project to grow at a very high double digit CAGR. Abiomed, U.S. based medical device company has developed worlds smallest catheter based heart pump that provides hemodynamic support to the heart. The Impella heart pump (Impella series - Impella 2.5, Impella 5.0, Impella CP, and Impella RP) is FDA approved and presently is one of the factors for driving Interventional cardiology market.Among various Interventional cardiology applications, coronary interventions held the highest share and is expected to grow at a high single digit CAGR due to large acceptance of non surgical treatments such as PTCA, cardiac ablation, coronary thrombectomy and aortic aneurysm (EVAR and TEVAR). Structural heart segment is the fastest growing market with a double digit CAGR. Major companies are adopting acquisition strategy in the expansion of cardiovascular and structural heart devices product portfolio, for instance, in January 2017, Abbott Laboratories acquired St. Jude medical. This acquisition has enhanced Abbotts product offering in emerging high growth areas of cardiovascular device market such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure and structural heart that elevates the company to the top position in cardiovascular market. Similarly, Medtronic, PLC in October 2015 acquired Twelve, Inc, a privately-held medical device company focused on the development of a transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) device. This acquisition supported Medtronic to develop a differentiated TMVR product that had significant growth opportunities.Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement (TMVR), cardiac remodelling, catheter based heart pump are some of the technological advancements that are going to drive the interventional cardiology market in coming years. TMVR is still in its clinical trial stage and major companies are involved in the design and development of TMVR, for instance Edward Lifesciences is conducting phase-1 clinical trial in evaluating the safety and function of CardiAQ TMVR device. Similarly, cardiac remodelling devices (remodelling of heart caused due to heart failure) such as Parachute implant by Cardiokinetix, Inc. and Revivent TC TransCatheter Ventricular Enhancement System by BioVentrix, Inc. are in the process of getting regulatory approval. Procyrions aortix is a catheter based small and continuous heart pump for heart failure patients, designed to help assist the heart muscle and boost localized blood flow, instead of operating in heart, it is perched in the aorta. Procyrions aortix device is not yet commercially available and requires regulatory approval from FDA. The launch of these technologies will boost the interventional cardiology market in coming years.The Interventional cardiology global market based on geography is divided into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of the world. North American region commanded the largest revenue and to grow at high single digit CAGR. Increasing peripheral interventional procedures, growth in aging population and significant increase in PCI centers in U.S. has led the market growth in this region. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at highest CAGR owing to the rapidly increasing aging population, patient and raise in healthcare awareness in the emerging countries, such as India and China.Companies such as Boston Scientific, Medtronic, Abbott and Terumo are ahead of other companies are considered to be leaders in this space with their marketed products and strong pipelines. Abbott is a leader in coronary and endovascular devices and the first company to obtain FDA approved bioresorbable stent. Recently company has obtained U.S. FDA approval for Micra Transcatheter Pacing System (TPS), a smallest cardiac pacemaker and the most advanced technological device for the treatment of bradycardia (slow or irregular heart rhythms). In January 2017, W.L.Gore & Associates, Inc. received FDA approval for Viabahn VBX balloon expandable endoprosthesis for treatment of de novo or restenotic lesions found in iliac arteries, including lesions at the aortic bifurcation. It is the first and only balloon expandable stent graft to be approved.Pediatric interventional cardiology market is advancing at a steady rate, as estimated by IQ4I Research, the market is expected to grow owing to increasing occurrence of congenital heart conditions among pediatric patients and other key factors contributing to the growth of the pediatric interventional cardiology market include advancements in minimally invasive technologies, increasing awareness of technological advancements, preference for minimally invasive surgeries and growing R&D investments for novel pediatric interventional cardiology products. However, stringent and complex regulatory procedures and high cost of pediatric interventional cardiology procedures are restraining the market.Major players in the interventional cardiology global market are Abiomed (U.S.), Abbott Laboratories (U.S.), Boston Scientific (U.S.), B. Braun (Germany), C.R. Bard (U.S.), Cook Medical (U.S), Edwards Lifesciences (U.S.), Johnson &Johnson (U.S.), Medtronic PLC. (Ireland), Terumo Corporation (Japan) and W.L.Gore & Associates, Inc. (U.S.).BioVentrix, (U.S.), Biotronik GMBH & Co. (Germany), Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. (U.S.), Cardiva Medical, Inc.(U.S.), Cardiokinetix (U.S.), Procyrion (U.S.), Cardinal Health (U.S.), Getinge Group (Sweden), Goodman Co., Ltd. (Japan), InspireMed Ltd.(Israel), Lepu Medical (China), Lombard Medical Technologies (U.K.), Meril Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd.(India) and MicroPort Scientific Corporation (China) are some of the emerging players in the interventional cardiology market.IQ4I (Intelligence Quotient for Innovation) Research and Consultancy Pvt. Ltd. is a global strategy, consulting and a leading market research company. Our clients include leading businesses, investment banks, researchers and government agencies.We are a team of highly qualified consultants and market researchers, committed to help clients make strategic decisions by providing relevant and firmly reliable market intelligence support. We enable our clients to identify the market opportunities with best-in-class market intelligence reports.Mr. Sattish BirrudukotaIQ4I Research & Consultancy Pvt LtdNo.11, Industrial Suburb,West of Chord Road,Rajajinagar, Bangalore-560010
Worldwide Bio MEMS Market is Estimated to Surge at a CAGR of 20.9% by 2024; High Prevalence of Heart Diseases Gives Impetus to Cardio-MEMS
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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Bio-MEMS Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024 " to it's Large Report database.Global Bio MEMS Market: OverviewThis report provides both strategic as well as in-depth analysis of the global bio-MEMS market, during the forecast period from 2016 to 2024. The scope of this report comprises analysis of different segments within this market being differentiated on the basis of type, application and geography. Growing applications of life saving utilities associated with the implementation of bio-MEMS is expected to fuel the growth of this market in both developed as well as developing economies from 2016-2024.Global Bio MEMS Market: Drivers and RestraintsApplication as well as demand for bio-MEMS is increasing because of its high utility that allows patients to survive in critically ill conditions acting as the most important driver for the growth of global bio-MEMS market. With advancement in research facilities being made to improve micro total analysis systems as well as lab-on-chip systems, the demand for bio-MEMS is expected to increase during the forecast period from 2016-2024. The rise in government grants to grow research and development facilities for biomedical applications has further led to bio-MEMS being used as life saving devices. Moreover, application of microfluidic chips in bio-MEMS applications has been another crucial driver to positively impact the demand for bio-MEMS in clinical diagnostics.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:Furthermore, bio-MEMS also assists in the rapid detection of viruses that has been another important reason for the rise in demand of bio-MEMS devices. There are certain restraints such as complexity associated with fabrication process as well as the high costs associated with the implementation of this technology that restricts the demand for bio-MEMS devices. Growing application of bio-MEMS for monitoring of life threatening diseases that is going to provide huge growth opportunities for bio-MEMS market in coming years.Global Bio MEMS Market: Segmentation AnalysisThe global Bio-MEMS market based on different types has been segmented into gyroscopes, accelerometers and others. The bio-MEMS market globally has also been further segmented into includes neural implants, bionics, ENT implants, cardioMEMS and others. Different regions included in this report includes North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Rest of the World that further has been segmented into Middle East, Africa and South America. The market for bio-MEMS has been provided in (USD million) in terms of revenue as well as the CAGR for the forecast period of 2016 to 2024.Read All Biotechnology Market Research Reports @Table of ContentSection 1 PrefaceSection 2 Assumptions and Research Methodology2.1 Assumptions and Acronyms used2.2 Research MethodologySection 3 Executive Summary : Global Bio-MEMS Market3.1 Executive Summary3.2 Market Opportunity MapSection 4 Global Bio-MEMS Market Overview4.1 Definition4.2 Industry Evolution4.3 Drivers & Restraints: Snapshot Analysis4.3.1 Drivers4.3.2 Restraints4.3.3 Opportunities4.4 Global Market Attractiveness Analysis4.5 Global Market Share Analysis By Company (2015)4.6 Competitive Strategies Adopted By Leading PlayersSection 5 Global Bio-MEMS Market Analysis, By Type5.1 Market Trends5.2 Introduction5.3 Global Bio-MEMS Market, By TypeSection 6 Global Bio-MEMS Market Analysis, By Application6.1 Market Trends6.2 Global Bio-MEMS Market, By ApplicationAbout ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's fastest growing collection of market research reports worldwide. Our database is composed of current market studies from over 100 featured publishers worldwide. Our market research databases integrate statistics with analysis from global, regional, country and company perspectives. ResearchMoz's service portfolio also includes value-added services such as market research customization, competitive landscaping, and in-depth surveys, delivered by a team of experienced Research Coordinators.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:
Global Diamond Mining to 2020: Largest Mining Companies such as Alrosa, De Beers SA, Rio Tinto Plc, Dominion Diamond etc.
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ResearchMoz added Latest Research Report titled " Global Diamond Mining to 2020 " to it's Large Report database.SynopsisTimetric's 'Global Diamond Mining to 2020' report comprehensively covers global reserves of diamonds and reserves by country, historical and forecast data on global rough diamond production, and production by country and trade. The report also includes demand drivers affecting the global diamond mining industry, profiles of major diamond mining companies, and information on the major active, exploration and development projects by region.Executive summaryTimetric estimates global rough diamond production at 131.5 million carats (Mct) in 2014, marginally up from 130.5Mct in 2013. The market for rough diamond production centers around the top eight producing countries - Russia, Botswana, the DRC, Australia, Canada, Zimbabwe, Angola and South Africa which collectively account for 97% of global production. The Argyle, Orapa, Jwaneng, Diavik, Catoca and Nyurbinskaya are some of the major diamond producing mines while Alrosa, De Beers SA, Rio Tinto Plc, Dominion Diamond Corporation and Petra Diamonds are the worlds largest diamond mining companies, collectively accounting for 70% of global production.Request for Sample PDF of Premium Research Report with TOC:ScopeThe report contains an overview of the global diamond mining industry together with the key demand drivers affecting the industry. It also provides information about reserves, historic and forecast production, reserves and production by country, major exporting and importing countries, competitive landscape and major active, exploration and development projects.Reasons to buyGain an understanding of the global diamond mining industry, the relevant demand drivers , reserves, historic and forecast production, major exporting and importing countries, active, exploration and development projects and the competitive landscape.Key highlightsDiamond mainly occurs in kimberlite, lamproite and alluvial deposits. The worlds largest kimberlite reserves are found in Botswanas Orapa region and in South Africa, while alluvial deposits are found mainly on the Atlantic coasts of South Africa and Namibia.The Australian Argyle mine in Kimberley region hosts lamproite deposits. Global diamond reserves were 730 million carats (Mct) as of January 2015, with Australia, Botswana and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) collectively accounting for 72% of the total.Globally, the accessibility of diamond deposits and the depth of occurrence are increasing challenges to the expansion of global diamond mining operations, with projects becoming more capital intensive, necessitating substantial investments, especially in technology.Read All Mining Market Research Reports @Table of Contents1 Executive Summary2 Global Diamond Mining Reserves, Production, Demand Driver and Trade2.1 Reserves by Geographical Region and Major Mines with Grade2.2 Historic and Forecast Production2.2.1 Historic and forecast production by major mines2.2.2 Rough diamond production by country2.3 Location of Major Diamond Producing Mines2.4 Major Active Mines2.5 Major Exploration and Development Projects2.6 Demand Drivers2.7 Diamond Trade2.7.1 Exporting countries2.7.2 Rough Diamond importing countries3 Major Global Diamond Producing Companies3.1 Alrosa3.2 De Beers SA3.3 Rio Tinto Plc3.4 Dominion Diamond Corporation (DDC)3.5 Petra Diamonds LtdAbout ResearchMozResearchMoz is the world's fastest growing collection of market research reports worldwide. Our database is composed of current market studies from over 100 featured publishers worldwide. Our market research databases integrate statistics with analysis from global, regional, country and company perspectives. ResearchMoz's service portfolio also includes value-added services such as market research customization, competitive landscaping, and in-depth surveys, delivered by a team of experienced Research Coordinators.Contact Us:Mr. Nachiket Ghumare90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074 / Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:Follow me on Blogger at:
3 March 2017
Following the fraudulent sale of 31 Solar PV power plants to EAM Solar ASA in July 2014 by Enovos Luxembourg SA and Avelar Energy Ltd through their jointly owned special purpose vehicle Aveleos SA of Luxembourg, the so-called "P31 Acquisition", EAM group has been forced to pursue EAM's legal and economic rights in several legal venues due to the unwillingness of the sellers to respect their contractual obligations in accordance with the Share Purchase Agreement entered into the 31st of December 2013.
The financial reporting through annual and quarterly reports issued since July 2014 contains further details relevant for the interpretation of this stock exchange notice and can be found on the company web site (www.eamsolar.no).
1) Breach of standstill agreement proceedings against Aveleos SA in the Court of Luxembourg
In October 2014, EAM entered into a so-called standstill agreement with Aveleos SA that also encompassed Enovos, Avelar and its employees. The purpose of the standstill agreement was to give the sellers time to resolve the payment suspension measures of GSE and to document the necessary facts confirming the validity of the FIT contracts and the technical feasibility of the power plants within a limited time frame of 6 months. In exchange for this the sellers pledged to finance the running costs of the criminally affected power plants with a minimum of EUR 5 million in liquidity until the above matters was resolved.
In exchange for this pledge and the promises given by the sellers, EAM lifted the injunction achieved on the bank accounts of Aveleos SA in Luxembourg in September 2014 in order to avoid the immediate bankruptcy of Aveleos SA in October 2014 as threatened by the Enovos and Avelar directors.
Aveleos and its Directors breached the standstill agreement already in November 2014, as confirmed in the ruling by the Civil Court of Milan (Enterprise Matters Specialized Section) in September 2015 and by the Criminal Court of Milan in the ruling the 13th of September 2016.
In the Autumn 2015 Aveleos summoned EAM again in Luxembourg court in order to misuse the standstill agreement to achieve exclusion from the criminal proceedings in Milan in order for Enovos and Avelar to escape legal proceedings. On the 20th of September 2016 Aveleos asked the court of Luxembourg for a postponement of these proceeding, which was granted until January 2017.
The first hearing in the Standstill Agreement procedures in Luxembourg took place on 17 January 2017. Both parties filed their note of pleadings and presented to the judge. In the proceedings Aveleos SA has delivered a claim and EAM Solar ASA a counter-claim.
In a ruling communicated yesterday the court decided that the Luxembourg civil proceedings regarding the Standstill Agreement shall be put to a halt until the arbitration award before the Court of Milan is rendered i.e. all claims of Aveleos have been suspended until further.
2) Defamation case - allegations of false complaint to be tried in the Luxembourg District Court
The companies EAM Solar ASA and EAM Solar Italy Holding srl, as well as their CEO and Managing Director, Mr Viktor E. Jakobsen, received in January 2017 a subpoena to meet in court in Luxembourg on 13 March 2017. The plaintiffs are Enovos Luxembourg SA, Enovos International SA and their directors. The plaintiffs claim that the criminal complaint filed by EAM Solar ASA in February 2016 is false and not merited. This is an attempt by the directors to evade the ongoing investigation by the criminal court of Luxembourg that followed after the criminal complaint was filed.
In a communication received yesterday we have been informed that the case will not be heard until the Prosecutor's Office have decided on the criminal complaint filed in February 2016 that is still in their hands.
Therefore, the case will not be pleaded on March 13, 2017 and will be rescheduled.
For information, please contact:
Viktor E Jakobsen, CEO, phone +47 9161 1009, viktor@eam.no
About EAM Solar: EAM Solar is a utility company that acquires and operates solar power plants. The Company currently owns solar PV power plants in Italy. The plants are operating under long-term sales contracts.
LiTaO3 Crystal Consumption Market 2016 valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the market
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Qyresearchreports include new market research report Global LiTaO3 Crystal Consumption Market 2016 Industry, Analysis, Research, Share, Growth, Sales, Trends, Supply, Forecast to 2021 to its huge collection of research reports.The LiTaO3 Crystal is the target of analysis presented in this research report which is a highly descriptive and insightful publication. It chalks out a detailed, all-inclusive, and logical perspective of the market, casing all crucial categories and their pieces, along with the aspects that have so far shown the potential of having a deep influence on the market over the coming years. The report is therefore a 360-degree representation of the analysis of the current state of market.The market has been quarried to its microscopic nuances, where rudimentary data and key, industry-specific classifications of the market and its elements that are being defined in the overview. The report then moves ahead into a 360 degree analysis of the LiTaO3 Crystal, while sticking to phrases of the market, such as specific definitions, applications, industry chain structures, government policies, and recent developments.Download The exclusive Sample of this report:The large volumes of data presented in this report, on the LiTaO3 Crystal, have been garnered with the aid of different research methodologies, both primary and secondary. This data is further concentrated by means of standard analytical processes based on industry practices, and therefore only the significant sections of information are provided to the readers of this report.The governing and competitive landscape of the LiTaO3 Crystal are studied in this research report. The different stages and their details, such as rules, protocols, procedures, and strategies are also included in addition to an analysis of their effect on the overall growth rate of the market. The report also contains a comprehensive analysis of the business profiles of the most influential vendors in the LiTaO3 Crystal.Table of Contents1 Industry Overview of LiTaO3 Crystal1.1 Definition and Specifications of LiTaO3 Crystal1.1.1 Definition of LiTaO3 Crystal1.1.2 Specifications of LiTaO3 Crystal1.2 Classification of LiTaO3 Crystal1.3 Applications of LiTaO3 Crystal1.4 Industry Chain Structure of LiTaO3 Crystal1.5 Industry Overview and Major Regions Status of LiTaO3 Crystal1.5.1 Industry Overview of LiTaO3 Crystal1.5.2 Global Major Regions Status of LiTaO3 Crystal1.6 Industry Policy Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal1.7 Industry News Analysis of LiTaO3 CrystalBrowse Complete Report with TOC @2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal2.1 Raw Material Suppliers and Price Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal2.2 Equipment Suppliers and Price Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal2.3 Labor Cost Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal2.4 Other Costs Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal2.5 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal2.6 Manufacturing Process Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal3 Global Market Size (Volume and Value), Sales and Sale Price Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal3.1 Global Market Size (Volume and Value) and Growth Rate of LiTaO3 Crystal 2011-20163.2 Global Market Size (Volume and Value) of LiTaO3 Crystal by Regions 2011-20163.3 Global Market Size (Volume and Value) of LiTaO3 Crystal by Types 2011-20163.4 Global Market Size (Volume and Value) of LiTaO3 Crystal by Applications 2011-20163.5 Global Sales Volume and Sales Revenue of LiTaO3 Crystal by Companies 2011-20163.6 Global Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Regions 2011-20163.7 Global Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Types 2011-20163.8 Global Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Applications 2011-20163.9 Global Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Companies 2011-20164 USA Market Size (Volume and Value), Sales, Sale Price and End Users Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal4.1 USA Market Size (Volume and Value) and Growth Rate of LiTaO3 Crystal 2011-20164.2 USA Market Size (Volume and Value) of LiTaO3 Crystal by Types 2011-20164.3 USA Market Size (Volume and Value) of LiTaO3 Crystal by Applications 2011-20164.4 USA Sales Volume and Sales Revenue of LiTaO3 Crystal by Companies 2011-20164.5 USA Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Types 2011-20164.6 USA Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Applications 2011-20164.7 USA Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Companies 2011-20164.8 USA Regional Supply, Import, Export and Consumption of LiTaO3 Crystal 2011-20164.9 USA End Users with Contact Information and Consumption Volume of LiTaO3 Crystal by Applications5 Europe Market Size (Volume and Value), Sales, Sale Price and End Users Analysis of LiTaO3 Crystal5.1 Europe Market Size (Volume and Value) and Growth Rate of LiTaO3 Crystal 2011-20165.2 Europe Market Size (Volume and Value) of LiTaO3 Crystal by Types 2011-20165.3 Europe Market Size (Volume and Value) of LiTaO3 Crystal by Applications 2011-20165.4 Europe Sales Volume and Sales Revenue of LiTaO3 Crystal by Companies 2011-20165.5 Europe Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Types 2011-20165.6 Europe Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Applications 2011-20165.7 Europe Sale Price of LiTaO3 Crystal by Companies 2011-20165.8 Europe Regional Supply, Import, Export and Consumption of LiTaO3 Crystal 2011-20165.9 Europe End Users with Contact Information and Consumption Volume of LiTaO3 Crystal by ApplicationsRead More @About UsQYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.Contact Us1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Web:Email: sales@qyresearchreports.comQYResearchReports.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
Triethyl Phosphate Industry 2016 Development, Trends, Share, Growth, Research and Market Analysis
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Qyresearchreports include new market research report Global Triethyl Phosphate Market 2016 Industry Trend and Forecast 2022 to its huge collection of research reports.This report is a descriptive and analytical dissemination of information in the Triethyl Phosphate, for those associated with it or those who wish to enter the market in the immediate future. The report provides within its predetermined forecast period the latest installment of this stream of research reports. The report offers accurate and actionable perceptions on the market that will allow its readers to generate new perspectives on the key segments of the market. These include the leading features that are currently augmenting its growth rate. The report also elaborates on the constraints that are currently hampering its growth rate. It also provides emphasis on the leading trends that are affecting the Triethyl Phosphate at the moment, as well as the ones that are likely to be carried forward in the future.Download The exclusive Sample of this report:The report includes an analysis overview of the industry as a whole based on its key segments analysis compiled using opinions and insights from experts in the industry. This creates the differentiator that asserts for a superior quality of research and analysis within this report. The clients can use these insights to act upon their business strategies and gauge their regional and/or globally relevant segments that are likely to be beneficial the foreseeable future.There are a few drivers that stand out, and this report discloses their importance through a profound scrutiny of the various openings that players may improve their goals upon. The report also creates a timeline of all developments in the market that have recently occurred and those that have directly or indirectly impacted it, thus offering readers with an improved knowledge set in the Triethyl Phosphate for the given forecast period.Table of Contents1 Triethyl Phosphate Market Overview11.1 Product Overview and Scope of Triethyl Phosphate11.2 Triethyl Phosphate Segment by Types11.2.1 Global Production Market Share of Triethyl Phosphate by Types in 201611.3 Triethyl Phosphate Segment by Applications31.3.1 Triethyl Phosphate Consumption Market Share by Applications in 201631.3.2 Chemical Catalyst41.3.3 Flame Retardants41.3.4 Organic Solvent41.3.5 Pesticide Intermediates41.4 Triethyl Phosphate Market by Regions51.4.1 North America Status and Prospect (2011-2022)51.4.2 Europe Status and Prospect (2011-2022)61.4.3 China Status and Prospect (2011-2022)71.4.4 Japan Status and Prospect (2011-2022)81.4.5 India Status and Prospect (2011-2022)91.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Triethyl Phosphate (2011-2022)10Browse Complete Report with TOC @2 Global Triethyl Phosphate Market Competition by Manufacturers112.1 Global Triethyl Phosphate Production and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)112.2 Global Triethyl Phosphate Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)132.3 Global Triethyl Phosphate Average Price by Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)152.4 Manufacturers Triethyl Phosphate Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area, Product Types162.5 Triethyl Phosphate Market Competitive Situation and Trends182.5.1 Triethyl Phosphate Market Concentration Rate182.5.2 Triethyl Phosphate Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers192.5.3 Industry Dynamics203 Global Triethyl Phosphate Production, Revenue (Value) by Regions (2011-2016)213.1 Global Triethyl Phosphate Production and Market Share by Regions (2011-2016)213.2 Global Triethyl Phosphate Revenue (Value) and Market Share by Regions (2011-2016)233.3 Global Triethyl Phosphate Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)263.4 North America Triethyl Phosphate Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)263.5 Europe Triethyl Phosphate Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)273.6 China Triethyl Phosphate Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)273.7 Japan Triethyl Phosphate Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)283.8 India Triethyl Phosphate Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2011-2016)284 Global Triethyl Phosphate Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016)294.1 Global Triethyl Phosphate Consumption by Regions (2011-2016)294.2 North America Triethyl Phosphate Production, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016)314.3 Europe Triethyl Phosphate Production, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016)324.4 China Triethyl Phosphate Production, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016)324.5 Japan Triethyl Phosphate Production, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016)334.6 India Triethyl Phosphate Production, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2011-2016)335 Global Triethyl Phosphate Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Types34Read More @About UsQYReseachReports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations. Reports from QYReseachReports.com feature valuable recommendations on how to navigate in the extremely unpredictable yet highly attractive Chinese market.Contact Us1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Web:Email: sales@qyresearchreports.comQYResearchReports.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
Urethra Cystoscopes Market: Emerging Market Trends, Size, Share and Growth Analysis
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Cystoscopy is an invaluable tool for identifying lower urinary tract complications or disorders and is the most common procedure performed in urology. Cystoscopes are commonly used to investigate the inside of the urinary tract. Cystoscopes are classified as semi-critical devices, according to the Spaulding classification system, for medical devices and disinfection, proposed by Dr. E H Spaulding. Cystoscopy is generally used for diagnosis and monitoring progress of conditions or diseases. It also helps in ruling out certain symptoms, thereby enabling further medical interventions. For example, routine cystoscopy is carried out before and after the treatment of bladder cancer to check for reoccurrence of tumor to prevent its further spread.Urethra cystoscope is used to look inside of urethra, which is a part of urinary tract. It is a long and thin optical instrument. At one end, it has an eyepiece, a flexible or rigid tube at the center, and the other end of the tube has tiny lens and light.Download Exclusive Brochure of This Report :Cystoscopy is carried out by urologists in order to relate the cause of symptoms for urinary tract problems such as frequent episodes of urine or urinary tract infections, hematuria, urinary incontinence, pain, burning or any kind of discomfort at urinary site, abnormal cells in urine, etc. Cystoscopy is also carried out to detect and remove renal or urinary stones, abnormal tissues, polyps or tumors in urethra. These can assist in other purposes such as removal of stent and performing retrograde pyelography.The most important task in use of urethra cystoscopes is sterilizing or reprocessing in between patients, and very few are found to address the reprocessing as per the requirement. Hence, proper training is required for urologist to carry out urethra cystoscopy. Major risk associated with the use of urethra cystoscopes is acquisition of urinary tract infection as a urethra cystoscope is reused many times. Other risks include urethral bleeding or pain, as well as fever in some cases.Major drivers of the urethra cystoscopes market are rise in urethra related disorders or diseases such as bladder cancer and renal stones and applications in several medical procedures such as stent insertion and dye insertion. Other factors such as urethral cytoscope flexibility, minimal invasive technique, and increase in health awareness and improvement in health care facilities propel the urethra cystoscopies market. Major restraint of the urethra cystoscopes market is risk of transmission of infection, especially urinary tract infection. High maintenance and sterility required for use of urethra cytoscopes and emergence of new endoscopic techniques such as endoscopic capsules are likely to hamper the market. Manufacturers are developing advanced urethra cytoscopes to increase flexibility and enhance visibility during cystoscopy. This is likely to provide significant opportunity in the near future.The urethra cystoscopes market has been segmented based on product type, application, disinfection type, end-user, and region. In terms of product type, the market has been segmented into flexible urethra cytoscopes, rigid urethra cytoscopes, and consumables. Based on application, the urethra cystoscopes market has been categorized into urinary tract infection (UTI) diagnosis, biopsy, and others. Other applications include removal of renal stones, lumps, or tumors. In terms of disinfection type, the urethra cystoscopes market has been classified into manual and automated. Based on end-user, the market has been segmented into hospitals, specialized clinical laboratories, and research institutions. In terms of region, the urethra cystoscopes market has been classified into Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa, North America, and Latin America.Major players in the urethra cystoscopes market are Olympus Medical Systems Corporation, Medtronic plc, Boston Scientific, Stryker Corporation, Richard Wolf GmbH, Shenda Endoscope, Zhejiang Tiansong Medical Instrument Co., Ltd., Henke-Sass, Wolf GmbH, and Pentax Medical System, among others.Browse Global Strategic Business Report:About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Microbiology Testing Technologies Market - 2016 to 2024 Review: A Look at What's New & Improved
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About Microbiology testing market:This is very essential to ensure the safety of products people eat and drink or use in their daily routine. The FDA sets scientific standards for testing foods for various contaminants. Laboratories and food companies worldwide use these standards to make sure that food products are safe to eat and drink. The Microbial testing is one of these methods used for the purpose of testing.The microbiology testing is done to check the contamination or microorganism present in the sample provided to the laboratory. The major purpose of the testing is to test the product provided to the public. It is also used to check the products and equipment being used by laboratory. The major sources of samples come from food products, pharmaceuticals, water and cosmetics area. Such testing is also used to verify that growth mediums are clean and can be used to culture the desired microorganisms. This testing is performed routinely to ensure that a lab is meeting its own standards and documentation of such testing is usually included in scientific research to show that the research was performed in a controlled environment.Microbiology testing market segmentation:The pharmaceuticals market has showing highest share in microbiology test market in 2014 and food application is showing good opportunities in microbiological test market in upcoming years. Microbiology test market segmentation can be done by Instrument; consumables, and applications. Microbiology test market by Instrument; automated microbiology, dilution machines, dispensers and labelers. Microbiology test market by Consumables; kits and reagents Microbiology test market by Applications; pharmaceuticals, clinics, food, and energy.Technological advances, like automated instruments for identification of pathogens in laboratories have been of immense help to microbiologists. Automation has helped to enhance key laboratory performance attributes like consistency, quality, and a slower total turnaround time. Thus, automation is the new trend in the microbiology field.Request a Sample Report @Microbiology testing Application:Microbiology testing is majorly used in pharmaceuticals/medical, food and beverages market, energy and in cosmetics market. The products such as Aqua Plate, Real-time PCR, food pathogen system, etc. are being used by laboratories to test water contamination, pharmaceuticals and food samples. Various methods such as culture testing method or food pathogen test are used to perform microbial testing on the microbial samples.Microbiology testing market growth influencer:The major growth drivers of microbial market is the large disease burden of infectious diseases, the growing trend of laboratory automation, the increase in access to medical insurance and increased healthcare expenditure.However, strict regulatory policies for medical devices, advancements in molecular diagnostic technologies, reimbursement issues are the major restraints of microbiology market.Browse Report Details @Microbiology testing market major players: Abbott Laboratories, Inc. (U.S.) Alere, Inc. (U.S.) bioMerieux SA (France) Becton, Dickinson and Company (U.S.) Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (U.S.) Bruker Corporation (U.S.) Cepheid (U.S.) Danaher Corporation (U.S.) Hologic, Inc. (U.S.) F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. (Switzerland) Siemens AG (Germany)Microbiology testing market regional analysis:The regional analysis comprises of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and rest of the world.North America:North America dominates the microbiology tests market due to large number of market-focused players providing wider range of product portfolio and is followed by Europe. The North American microbiology market is growing due to the increase in the prevalence of pathogenic diseases, growth in discovery of mutating and adapting bacterium, and the growing need for speedy microbiological testing methods.Asia:Emerging economies of Asia Pacific and Latin America are expected to show significant growth in the microbiology tests market due to an increase in the number of laboratories in these regions and development of existing ones for automation of various instrumentation systems. Also the increase in major hospital chains opening new centers in major cities in these regions and an increase in government expenditure is driving growth for microbiological market.Request Table of Contents for this Report @The reports also covers brief analysis of Geographical Region includes:Americas North Americao USo CanadaEurope Western Europeo Germanyo Franceo Italyo Spaino U.Ko Rest of Western Europe Eastern Europeo Polando RussiaAsia Pacific Asiao Chinao Indiao Japano Rest of Asia Pacific Countrieso Australiao New Zealand The Middle East& AfricaAbout Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members.Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Plant Asset Management Market Development, Trend, Segmentation, Competitive landscape, Market overview and Forecast to 2022
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Market ScenarioPlant asset management is the process of optimizing field devices and monitoring information used to integrate with business operations and IT infrastructure. This improves the business operating performance and also reduces maintenance cost and paper work. Major companies such as IBM, Rockwell Automation, and Siemens among others are providing asset management solutions to improve the overall performance of the enterprises.The major factor that drives the growth of plant asset management market is growing awareness about low cost manufacturing plants, changing consumer needs, rising new business models for enterprise asset management and increasing trends of merging IT and operational technology among others.Globally the market for plant asset management market is expected to grow at the rate of more than ~10% from 2016 to 2022.Request a Sample Report @Key PlayersSome of the major players in Global Plant asset management Market include ABB Ltd. (Switzerland), Emerson electric company (U.S.), Rockwell automation, Inc. (U.S.), Siemens AG (Germany), IBM Corporation (U.S.), Hitachi Ltd. (Japan), Endress +Hauser (Switzerland), Dassault Systemes (France), Honeywell International, Inc. (U.S.), and Plant Asset Management (Petrofac) (UK) among others.SegmentsGlobal Plant asset management Market can be segmented as follows:Segmentation by Type: Hardware, and software.Segmentation by Services: Performance management, Monitoring & controlling, information management, device configuration, content management among others.Segmentation by Application: Energy & power, petrochemical, Chemical, mining, food & beverage, and pharmaceutical among others.[Note: Only Qualitative information will be provides for by Services segment]Regional AnalysisNorth-America is dominating the Plant asset management market with the largest market share due to growing consumer concern to enhance aging plant assets performance and therefore is expected to grow with highest revenue by 2022. Asia-Pacific is expected to be the second largest market for plant asset management followed by Europe region during forecast period.Access Report Details @Target Audience Design engineering information management Supply chain vendors Research & consultants PAM software solution providers Retailer and distributor GovernmentThe report for Global Plant Asset Management Market of Market Research Future comprises of extensive primary research along with the detailed analysis of qualitative as well as quantitative aspects by various industry experts, key opinion leaders to gain the deeper insight of the market and industry performance. The report gives the clear picture of current market scenario which includes historical and projected market size in terms of value, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report provides details information and strategies of the top key players in the industry. The report also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regions.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research Future+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.comOffice No. 524/528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
Collagen Market Research Report by Regional Analysis : forecast 2023
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Transparency Market Research points that the global collagen market will expand at a 9.4% CAGR over the period between 2015 and 2023. The market, which had a valuation of US$4.13 bn in 2014, is projected to rise to US$9.37 bn by 2023.The rising use of collagen in medical devices and drug delivery systems, increased preference for minimally invasive technologies, and the effectiveness in wound healing are expected to be some of the key factors driving the global demand for collagen in the coming years. Easy availability of a number of collagen sources and the low antigenicity of the material grant collagen an important position in a number of industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and cosmeceuticals.The high and rising demand for a variety of collagen products in the field of wound healing will play a major role in the overall development of the collagen market in the next few years, states TMR in its report. The high demand for a biodegradable material in the wound healing sector will be due to the rising prevalence of a number of chronic diseases such as numerous cancers and diabetes. The rising population of obese and geriatric people across the globe will also be a major end-use demographic for the collagen market. Collagen supplements for obese and elderly, whose bodies have a tendency of producing decreased levels of collagen, will be the primary driver of collagen market in the near future.Browse full report on Collagen Market -Marine Collagen to Gain Maximum ProminencePresently, bovine and porcine sources are amongst the leading sources of collagen used across a number of application areas. Bovine collagen, one of the largest industrial sources of collagen, accounted for a 30 kilo tons of collagen in the global market in 2014. Porcine collagen, on the other hand, accounted for a 27.4 kilo tons of the globes overall collagen market in the same year.However, the global usage of collagen from both these sources is expected to witness slight decline over the period between 2015 and 2023. Factors affecting the overall consumption of collagen produced from these sources will be the concerns regarding disease transmission, in the case of bovine collagen, and cultural impact and allergic reactions, in the case of porcine collagen.As a result, marine collagen, the collagen source considered to be the safest among all possible collagen sources, is expected to witness the highest rise in consumption on a global front. The market for marine collagen is expected to rise at the highest CAGR of 11.6% from 2015 to 2023 in terms of volume.Asia Pacific Market to Facilitate Encouraging Demand for CollagenNorth America and Europe are presently the leading regional markets for collagen and collagen products owing to the high level of awareness about the several benefits of these products among the population. The presence of high-end manufacturing capabilities and a constant rise in application areas have also majorly contributed to the flourishing market for collagen in these regions in the past. North America and Europe held a combined share of over 60% in the global collagen market in 2014.However, Asia Pacific will emerge as the most promising region for the global collagen market over the period between 2015 and 2023. The region is home to the largest number of people aged more than 60 years, numbers which are expected to rise at a rapid pace in the next few years. In addition to this, the region has witnessed an increased level of involvement of government bodies towards raising the awareness regarding the health benefits of collagen in the past few years. Technological advancements in the Asia Pacific collagen market, leading to an increased manufacturing capacity, has also made Asia Pacific a lucrative regional market for collagen. Over 2015 to 2023, the collagen market in Asia Pacific will rise at the highest CAGR of 10.7%.Request for sample of this report -US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.
Nanotechnology Drug Delivery Market Research Report by Regional Analysis : forecast 2023
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Key players having presence in the global nanotechnology drug delivery market are AbbVie, Inc., Amgen, Inc., Celgene Corporation, Johnson & Johnson, Merck & Co., Inc., and Novartis International AG, among others.Nanotechnology drug delivery is a growing field and is witnessing increasing acceptance in health care applications. Nanotechnology drug delivery is widely used in the health care industry in applications such as neurology, anti-infective, cardiovascular disorders, and others. One important and active application area of nanotechnology drug delivery systems is to transport drugs to the final location of therapeutic intervention within the body. The nanotechnology drug delivery market is witnessing rapid growth due to increase in research and development activities in nanotechnology to develop novel nano-medicine. According to Eurostat comprehensive data, the nano-medicine industry in the EU includes 97 startups, 64 SMEs, and 38 large pharmaceutical or medical device companies. Furthermore, technological advancements and rising interest of key companies to invest in nanotechnology boost market growth. For instance, in 20112012, Pfizer, Inc., Amgen, Inc., and AstraZeneca signed agreements to collaborate with BIND Therapeutics to develop nano-medicines. These initiatives are expected to fuel the growth of the nanotechnology drug delivery market in the near future. However, stringent regulatory scenario and high development cost of medicines through nanotechnology are likely to hamper market growth during the forecast period. The global nanotechnology drug delivery market was valued at US$ 41,062.5 Mn in 2014 and is projected to reach US$ 118,527.2 Mn by 2023, expanding at a CAGR of 12.5% from 2015 to 2023.Browse full report on Nanotechnology Drug Delivery Market -Based on technology, the global nanotechnology drug delivery market has been segmented into nanocrystals, nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, nanotubes, and others. The nanoparticles segment dominated the global nanotechnology drug delivery market in 2014. The segment dominated the market as key nanoparticles such as dendrimers, gold nanoparticles, and fullerenes are used in pharmaceutical drug delivery. The nanotubes segment is expected to expand at the highest CAGR during the forecast period from 2015 to 2023.Based on application, the market has been segmented into neurology, oncology, cardiovascular/physiology, anti-inflammatory/immunology, anti-infective, and others. Anti-infective was the largest application segment of the nanotechnology drug delivery market due to rising prevalence of community-based and hospital-based infections.Geographically, North America dominated the global nanotechnology drug delivery market in 2014. Rising incidence of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes in the region fueled the growth of the nanotechnology drug delivery market in North America. Europe accounted for the second largest share of the market in 2014 owing to the favorable growth conditions for pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturers due to affordability for branded nanotechnology products by consumers. However, the market in Latin America is estimated to expand at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. High market growth in this region is due to increasing interest of leading companies such as Novartis and Johnson & Johnson to establish their presence in countries in Latin America such as Brazil and Mexico.Request for sample of this report -About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Hospital Acquired Disease Testing Market Research Report by Product, End User and Forecast 2023
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Global Hospital Acquired Disease Testing Market InsightsThe rising incidence of hospital acquired infections (HAIs) has emerged as a major concern for governments, particularly across developing and underdeveloped countries. In first world countries such as the U.S., various regulations are in place for penalizing hospitals exhibiting a high incidence of HAIs. Such regulations augur well for the hospital acquired disease testing market in developed countries. In contrast, the absence of proper regulations and stringent policies limiting the adoption of molecular-biology-based diagnostics are restricting the expansion of the market across emerging nations.Nevertheless, Transparency Market Research (TMR) forecasts the market to gain considerable momentum in the forthcoming years with the advent of the latest technologies. As per TMR, the global hospital acquired disease testing market stood at US$416.7 mn in 2014. Exhibiting a CAGR of 19.9% CAGR between 2015 and 2023, the market is expected to reach US$2.07 bn by the end of 2023.Browse full report on Hospital Acquired Disease Testing Market -Demand from Asia Pacific to Surge as the Region Witness High Incidence of HAIsRegionally, Europe, Asia Pacific, North America, and Rest of the World constitute the key markets for hospital acquired disease testing. Among these regions, North America held a dominant share of 38.5% in the market in 2014. Europe, in the same year, emerged as the second-largest market with a share of 21.6%. With over a million people suffering from hospital acquired infection, leading to several deaths every year, the U.S. emerged as the largest market for hospital acquired disease testing in North America.Other than the rising demand from the diagnostic market, the latest advancements in molecular diagnostics have been propelling the market in the region. Favorable regulations implemented to prevent the prevalence of HAIs also support the markets growth in North America.TMR forecasts Asia Pacific to exhibit the fastest growth for hospital acquired disease testing. The incidence of nosocomial infections is considerably high in the region. Moreover, Asia Pacific also has stringent regulations in place aimed at curbing HAIs. This, combined with the rising investment in the healthcare infrastructure, is a primary contributor to the hospital acquired disease testing market in the region. The Asia Pacific market is expected to surge at the highest CAGR of 21.2% between 2015 and 2023.Increasing Incidence of Urinary Tract Infections Fuels Demand for Hospital Acquired Disease TestingUrinary tract infection is one of the most common hospital acquired infections affecting millions around the world. It has therefore emerged as the largest segment in the global hospital acquired disease testing market, based on test type. As per TMR, the segment was valued at US$155.3 mn in 2014. Rising at a CAGR of 19.8%, the urinary tract infection testing segment is forecast to reach 768.8 mn in 2023.Apart from this, the demand for hospital acquired disease testing will also rise in response to the increasing incidence of surgical site infection, pneumonia, and MRSA, which is considered the fastest growing HAI in the world. Hospital acquired disease testing is also used for the bloodstream test.Some of the leading players operating in the global hospital acquired disease testing market are L Hoffman La Roche, Gen-Probe Inc., Diatherix Laboratories Inc., Life Technologies Corporation, Qiagen GmbH, Cantel Medical Corporation, Nordion, Inc., Cepheid, Inc., Meridian Biosciences, and others.Request for sample of this report -About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases Market Research Report by Regional Analysis : forecast 2023
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Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases Market: Key InsightsTMR expects the global PIDD market to reach US$7.5 bn by the end of 2023, from a valuation of US$4.3 bn in 2014.In response to the rising incidence of antibody diseases, Transparency Market Research (TMR) forecasts the global primary immunodeficiency market to surge at 6.1% CAGR between 2015 and 2023. Developed regions such as Europe and North America are predominantly contributing to the growth witnessed by this market. The consistent approval of novel therapeutic options for primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDD) and extensive research and development investments by key players are likely to bolster opportunities for the market in the forthcoming years.On the flip side, the absence of proper reimbursement and high cost of therapies will inhibit the markets growth trajectory to an extent. Nevertheless, with favorable government policies and funding for research and development in biopharma and pharmaceuticals, growth prospects for the market seem quite promising.Browse full report on Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases Market -Demand for PIDD Treatment Highest in North America and EuropeCollectively accounting for a share of 79.4% in the global PIDD market, North America and Europe emerged as the dominant regional segments in 2014. Among these regions, North America boasted the largest share of 56.2% in 2014, with the U.S. at the fore. As per TMR, the U.S. held over 80.2% of the PIDD market in North America in the same year. The nation is expected to continue demonstrating lucrative opportunities for the PIDD market through the forecast period.Over the last couple of years, a persistently increasing prevalence of diseases such as selective IgA deficiency, IgG subclass deficiency, and common variable immune deficiency has been witnessed in North America. This has fuelled the uptake of PIDD therapeutics. However, the growing awareness pertaining to side-effects such as renal failure and allergic reactions frequently associated with the treatment could hamper the markets growth to an extent.The primary immunodeficiency diseases market in North America, which stood at US$2.4 bn in 2014, is expected to reach US$4.3 bn by the end of 2023. The market is therefore expected to rise at a CAGR of 6.4% during the period.In Europe, the market is expected to gain from the increasing awareness regarding PIDD and favorable government support. The presence of companies such as Baxter International Inc., CSL Behring LLC, and Blotest Pharmaceuticals Corporation also supports the markets expansion in the region. Apart from this, emerging nations in Asia Pacific also exhibit lucrative scope for the expansion of the PIDD market. The increasing willingness among people to spend on novel therapeutics augurs well for sales prospects of the market in Asia Pacific. The region currently holds only a moderate share in the market. However, in the near future the opportunities for sale of PIDD therapeutics in the region will increase considerably.Rising Uptake of Immunoglobulin (Ig) Replacement Therapy Expected in Near FutureBy treatment, stem cell and gene therapy, antibiotic therapy, immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement therapy, and others make the key segments in the global PIDD market. Of these, immunoglobulin replacement has been in use for the treatment of chronic ailments for the past two decades. Due to the recent developments, it is also used for the treatment of partial antibody deficiency and combined immunodeficiencies. The segment therefore emerged dominant in the market in 2014. As per TMR, immunoglobulin replacement therapy will hold on to its position as the market leader through the forecast period.Despite, Ig replacement therapy being the most widely accepted treatment among PIDD patients, the use of antibiotics as an adjunct therapy is poised to surge in the near future. Some of the most commonly used antibiotics include penicillin, macrolides, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and tetracyclines.The demand for stem cell and gene therapy is also expected to increase during the forecast period, which in turn will augment the demand for effective PIDD treatment.Some of the most prominent companies in the global primary immunodeficiency diseases market are CSL Behring LLC, Baxter International, Inc., Grifols S.A., Octapharma AG, and others.Request for sample of this report -About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
FORM 8.3
PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the "Code")
1. KEY INFORMATION
(a) Full name of discloser: Rathbone Brothers PLC (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named. (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree Booker Group PLC (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure 02/03/2017 (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state "N/A" No
2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.
(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)
Class of relevant security:
Interests Short positions Number % Number % (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 19,965,739 1.12 (2) Cash-settled derivatives:
(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL: 19,965,739 1.12
All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).
(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors' and other employee options)
Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists: Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:
3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.
(a) Purchases and sales
Class of relevant security Purchase/sale
Number of securities Price per unit (p) 1p Ord Sale 87,000 199.25883 1p Ord Sale 145,600 199.25883 1p Ord Sale 37,100 200
(b) Cash-settled derivative transactions
Class of relevant security Product description
e.g. CFD Nature of dealing
e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit
(c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
(ii) Exercise
Class of relevant security Product description
e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
(d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)
Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)
4. OTHER INFORMATION
(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements
Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state "none"
(b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives
Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
(i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
(ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state "none"
(c) Attachments
Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
Date of disclosure: 03/03/2017 Contact name: Simon Walker - Compliance Department Telephone number: 0151 243 7364
Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel's Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code's disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
The Code can be viewed on the Panel's website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.
Hofseth BioCare ASA ("HBC" or the "Company") has entered into an agreement for sale and lease of the Company's property at Midsund where the Company's production facilities are located. In addition, wholly owned subsidiary HBC Berkak AS has also entered into an agreement for sale and lease of the property at Berkak where the HBC group's spray drying facility is located.
Both agreements are entered into with Syvde Eiendom AS, a wholly owned subsidiary of major shareholder Alliance Seafoods Inc. The sale of the properties will provide the Company with additional working capital to be used in the ongoing commercialization of the Company's products, while the lease agreements secures the Company long-term access to well-suited factory premises.
The plants are sold for a joint consideration of NOK 80 million, of which NOK 51.5 million is payable for the Midsund plant and NOK 28.5 million is payable for the Berkak plant. The sales are made as direct sales of the properties. The transactions are expected to be consummated on or about 25 March 2017, subject to approval of the Company's general meeting.
In connection with the consummation of the transactions, the Company shall enter into a 15-year lease agreement regarding the Midsund property with an annual lease sum of NOK 4,635,000 and HBC Berkak shall enter into a lease agreement for the Berkak property with the same term and with an annual lease sum of NOK 2,565,000.
- We are very pleased to have completed these two transactions with Syvde Eiendom AS. We see Alliance Seafoods as a strategically important partner, and through the agreements now in place with their fully owned subsidiary, our relationship will strengthen further, says CEO Tor Erik Andersen of Hofseth BioCare ASA.
As the agreement regarding sale and lease of the Midsund plant is entered into with a company controlled by shareholder Alliance Seafoods Inc., the agreement must be approved by the Company's general meeting. The Company therefore calls for a general meeting to be held on 24 March 2017 at 13.00 hours CET at the Company's premises at Molovegen 6, 6004 Alesund. Please see the attached notice, which will also be sent to the shareholders per ordinary mail and be available at the Company's website www.hofsethbiocare.no.
Certain major shareholders, including Roger Hofseth and associated companies, Hofseth International AS and Hofseth International AS group of companies, Bonafide Global Fish Fund, and Deep Blue Ventures Fund, holding a total of 56.77% of the total outstanding shares and votes have made irrevocable commitments to vote in favour of the approval of these agreements. Including Alliance Seafoods Inc., who is a part of this transaction, the votes in favour of the transaction represent a total of 71.05% of the outstanding shares in Hofseth BioCare ASA.
The properties have not been subject to separate financial reporting. No agreements have been entered into that are for the benefit of members of the management or board of directors of the Company in connection with the abovementioned transactions.
This stock exchange notice is published in accordance with the requirements for detailed stock exchange announcements pursuant to section 3.4 of the Continuing Obligations for companies listed on Oslo Axess.
For further information, please contact:
Tor Erik Andersen, CEO of Hofseth BioCare ASA
Mob: +47 911 79 854
E-mail: tea@hofsethbiocare.no
Jon Olav degard, CFO of Hofseth BioCare ASA
Phone: +47 936 32 966
E-mail: joo@hofsethbiocare.no
About Hofseth BioCare ASA:
HBC is a Norwegian biotech company that offers high-value ingredients and finished products for humans and pets. The company is founded on the core values of sustainability, traceability and optimal utilization of natural resources. Through an innovative hydrolysis technology, HBC is able to preserve the quality of salmon oil, proteins and calcium, prepared of fresh salmon off-cuts. HBC's objective is to contribute to the efficient use of marine resources and deliver quality products for ingredients and finished consumer products in the nutrition market.
Hofseth BioCare's headquarters are located in Alesund, Norway with branches in Oslo, Chicago, Mumbai and Tokyo. HBC is listed on Oslo Stock Exchange Axess list with ticker "HBC". More information about Hofseth BioCare at www.hofsethbiocare.com and www.facebook.com/hofsethbiocare
About Alliance Seafoods Inc. and Syvde Eiendom AS:
Alliance Seafoods is a fully owned subsidiary of Yokohama Reito Co., Ltd ("Yokorei"), a Japanese conglomerate listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Yokorei is a leading player in the frozen storage market in Japan. In addition, through Alliance Seafoods and other subsidiaries, Yokorei is involved in sales and distribution of fish and meat with a particular focus on the Asian market. Yokorei's consolidated turnover for 2015 was approximately USD 1.5 billion.
HBC and Alliance Seafoods have already had a business relationship for almost two years, and Alliance Seafoods is a key partner for HBC in the Asian market. In 2016, Yokorei also announced the acquisition of Fjordlaks Aqua, a leading trout farming company in Norway through a joint venture owned together with Hofseth International, which is a major shareholder of HBC.
Syvde Eiendom AS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alliance Seafood Inc. with it's main business in ownership of processing and production facilities within the Hofseth International Group. Syvde Eiendom AS owns today three processing buildings in the Hofseth International Group.
This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PENTAX Medical, an industry leader in endoscopy imaging devices, has introduced SCOPEPILOT to the Canadian market and is showcasing this new technology at the Canadian Digestive Disease Week (CDDW) annual meeting. The SCOPEPILOT Navigation Control Unit provides true, real-time 3D representation of an endoscopes position when inside a patients bowel tract.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/576331bc-5e8f-4b5a-b072-227b70f19539
Located at Booth #1009 during CDDW, in Banff, AB, March 3-5th, visitors can experience how SCOPEPILOT provides clinicians with a highly responsive 3D positional image that delivers a real-time representation of a colonoscopes orientation for highly accurate insertion tracking and effective colonic loop management. This new technology helps support quality standards in colonoscopy and training, to facilitate smooth and efficient colonoscope navigation for increased patient comfort.
The SCOPEPILOT system provides advanced orientation features to ensure the highest quality standards in colonoscopy and training. These include image rotation on both horizontal and vertical axis to improve differentiation of the insertion tube, as well as zoom functionality for improved evaluation and detection of looping.
A true 3D image is generated by the endoscopes integrated multi-dimensional sensors which are induced by a magnetic field generated outside of the patient. These sensors transmit to a control unit where data is processed and displayed in real-time during a procedure, enabling dynamic tracking and handling control of the endoscope. The SCOPEPILOT image responds coherently with the movement of the scope providing smooth and stable image quality.
The colour and contrast of the image provides a high depth of view to assist the physician visualize colonic loop configuration. The SCOPEPILOT sensors are integrated into the colonoscope, thus keeping the scopes working channel free for advanced therapeutic procedures. The system can be activated via the operation panel or remote control when needed at any time during a procedure. Pictures can be taken at the touch of a button and downloaded to a storage device via the USB port in the front panel.
Dr. Lawrence Hookey, Associate Professor, Queen's University Division of Gastroenterology, Kingston, ON, observed, Endoscopists at all levels of practice will appreciate the way the 3D navigation provided by SCOPEPILOT helps improve their navigation of the colon. The daily use of this device will enhance ones ability to recognize issues in challenging cases and become a pro-active rather than reactive endoscopist. This is a great example of how technological innovation serves clinical practice in a way that maximizes value for clinicians and patients.
David Harrison, General Manager of PENTAX Canada Inc, commented, We are thrilled to introduce SCOPEPILOT, a technology that is designed to assist endoscopists with colon navigation while also integrating seamlessly with our latest HD colonoscope and video processor platform. PENTAX Medical is again demonstrating its continuous commitment to providing solutions that support Quality in Endoscopy.
About PENTAX Medical
PENTAX Medical is a division of HOYA Group. Its mission is to improve the standard of patient care and quality of healthcare delivery by providing the best endoscopic products and services with a focus on QUALITY, CLINICALLY RELEVANT INNOVATION, and SIMPLICITY. Through leading edge R&D and manufacturing, PENTAX Medical provides endoscopic imaging devices and solutions to the global medical community. Headquartered in Japan, PENTAX Medical has a worldwide focus and presence with R&D, regional sales, service, and in-country facilities around the globe. PENTAX Medical employees represent the diverse countries where we do business, allowing us to provide innovative solutions tailored to meet local needs. For more information, please visit: www.pentaxmedical.com.
Finnish English
Municipality Finance Plc
Stock exchange release
3 March 2017 at 2:30 PM (EET)
The government proposal for the Health, social services and regional government reform published
The preparation of the Health, social services and regional government reform proceeds in Finland. The reform includes, among other things, plans to transfer tasks related to social and healthcare services from municipalities to new autonomous regions.
After a wide consultation process the Finnish government has published its proposal to the Parliament on 2 March 2017. The act proposal is now put to Parliament and its contents may change during the parliamentary process. Therefore Municipality Finance is not in a position to evaluate the reform's impact on its operation before the final legislative acts are passed in the Parliament.
Potentially the reform might have an effect on MuniFin's volumes, but not in 2017. MuniFin is actively following the development of the reform.
The government proposal is available in English at www.alueuudistus.fi/frontpage.
MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC
Pekka Averio
President and CEO
tel. +358 500 406 856
Measured by the group's balance sheet, Municipality Finance Plc (MuniFin) is Finland's second largest credit institution. The company is owned by Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the Republic of Finland. MuniFin is an integral part of the Finnish public economy.
MuniFin's balance sheet totals approximately EUR 34 billion. Funding for the company is primarily obtained through the international capital markets. MuniFin's funding is guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.
MuniFin's mission is to ensure competitive funding for local government investments and state-subsidised social housing production in all market conditions. The company's customers are Finnish municipalities, municipal federations, municipally controlled companies and non-profit housing corporations. The customers use financing solutions provided by MuniFin to finance social and non-profit targets such as day care centres, schools, housing, hospitals and other municipal investments.
The Municipality Finance Group also includes the subsidiary company, Financial Advisory Services Inspira Ltd.
Regulated Information - Inside Information
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN, SOUTH AFRICA OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD BE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW.
3 March 2017 at 14.30 CET
Nyrstar Netherlands (Holdings) B.V. (the "Issuer"), a subsidiary of Nyrstar NV (the "Company" or "Nyrstar"), announced today that it has priced its offering (the "Notes Offer") of 400 million senior unsecured notes due 2024 (the "Notes"). The Notes were priced at 100% with a coupon of 6.875% per annum. The principal amount of the Notes offered was increased from 350 million to 400 million. The Notes will be guaranteed by Nyrstar, as parent guarantor, and certain subsidiaries of the Company. The issuance of the Notes, which is subject to conditions, is expected to occur on 10 March 2017.
The Issuer intends to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offer to refinance amounts outstanding under the convertible bonds due 2018 issued by Nyrstar in an original aggregate principal amount of 120 million, and to pay down indebtedness under, but not cancel, existing revolving facility agreements.
About Nyrstar
Nyrstar is a global multi-metals business, with a market leading position in zinc and lead, and growing positions in other base and precious metals, which are essential resources that are fuelling the rapid urbanisation and industrialisation of our changing world. Nyrstar has mining, smelting, and other operations located in Europe, the Americas and Australia and employs approximately 4,300 people. Nyrstar is incorporated in Belgium and has its corporate office in Switzerland. Nyrstar is listed on Euronext Brussels under the symbol NYR. For further information please visit the Nyrstar website: www.nyrstar.com
For further information
Anthony Simms - Group Manager Investor Relations T: +41 44 745 8157 M: +41 79 722 2152 anthony.simms@nyrstar.com
Franziska Morroni - Group Manager Corporate Communications T: +41 44 745 8295 M: +41 79 719 2342 franziska.morroni@nyrstar.com
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The information contained in this announcement is for general information only and does not purport to be full or complete. This announcement does not constitute, or form part of, an offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe for, nor shall there be any sale or purchase of, the securities referred to herein, in any jurisdiction in which such offer, invitation, solicitation, sale, issue, purchase or subscription would be unlawful under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This announcement is not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in the United States of America, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Africa or any other jurisdiction where to do so would be prohibited by applicable law. Any persons reading this announcement should inform themselves of and observe any such restrictions.
No communication and no information in respect of the Notes Offer may be distributed to the public in any jurisdiction where a registration or approval is required. No steps have been or will be taken in any jurisdiction where such steps would be required. The offering or subscription of the Notes may be subject to specific legal or regulatory restrictions in certain jurisdictions. The Issuer takes no responsibility for any violation of any such restrictions by any person.
These materials are not an offer for sale of securities in the United States. The securities referred to herein may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or an exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Issuer has not registered, and does not intend to register, any part of the Notes Offer in the United States, and has not conducted, and does not intend to conduct, a public offering of the Notes in the United States.
This announcement is not a prospectus within the meaning of Directive 2003/71/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of 4 November 2003, as amended, notably by Directive 2010/73/EU, and as implemented respectively in each member State of the European Economic Area (the "Prospectus Directive"). This announcement does not, and shall not, in any circumstances constitute a public offering nor an invitation to the public in connection with any offer to buy or subscribe for securities in any jurisdiction. No action has been undertaken or will be undertaken to make an offer to the public of the Notes requiring a publication of a prospectus in any member State of the European Economic Area. As a result, the Notes may only be offered in member States of the European Economic Area:
(a) to qualified investors (as defined in Article 2(1)(e) of the Prospectus Directive); or
(b) in any other circumstances, not requiring the Issuer to publish a prospectus as provided under Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive.
The distribution of this announcement is not made, and has not been approved, by an "authorised person" within the meaning of Section 21(1) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. As a consequence, this announcement is directed only at persons who (i) are located outside the United Kingdom, (ii) are investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "Order"), (iii) are persons to whom it may be lawfully communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) (high net worth companies, unincorporated associations, etc.) of the Order or (iv) are persons to whom this announcement may otherwise lawfully be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as "Relevant Persons"). The Notes are directed only at Relevant Persons and no invitation, offer or agreements to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire or sell Notes may be proposed or made other than with Relevant Persons. Any person other than a Relevant Person may not act or rely on this document or any provision thereof. This announcement is not a prospectus which has been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority or any other United Kingdom regulatory authority for the purposes of Section 85 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
In connection with the issue of the Notes, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch acting as stabilising manager or any person acting on behalf of Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch may over-allot Notes or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the Notes at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, there is no assurance that Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch or any person acting on behalf of Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch will undertake stabilisation action. Any stabilisation measure may begin on or after the date on which adequate public disclosure of the final terms of the Notes Offer is made and, if begun, may be ended at any time, but it must end no later than 30 calendar days after the date on which the Issuer received the proceeds of the issue or no later than 60 calendar days after the date of allotment of the Notes, whichever is earlier. The stabilisation measures can take place over the counter (OTC) or on the Euro MTF Market of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Any stabilisation measure or over-allotment must be conducted by Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch or any person acting on behalf of Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.
OAKVILLE, Ontario, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saint Jean Carbon Inc. (Saint Jean or the Company) (TSX-V:SJL) (OTCQB:TORVF), a carbon science company engaged in the design and build of green energy storage, green energy creation and green re-creation through the use of carbon materials. The Company is pleased to clarify certain information in the press release dated February 28th, 2017 at the request, and pursuant to the guidance, of the TSX Venture Exchange.
The Company has received a purchase order from Panasonic Corporation to supply graphite anode material to their manufacturing facility. While the size and value of the order is nominal, both on its own and in comparison to the anticipated monthly orders under the provisions of the proposed formal offtake agreement, the order is significant as it marks the first order for material that has been re-engineered by the Company . Although the offtake agreement has not been signed at this time, the supply of the re-engineered material pursuant to the order is based upon the procedures and timelines contained in the proposed offtake agreement. The first order is anticipated to be delivered within 90 days from February 24th the date of the purchase order. The raw material is being re-engineered by the Company prior to its delivery; however, the supply is being out sourced as the Companys properties are not currently in production.The Company confirms that it has both the financial resources and access to the raw materials necessary to complete the first order. Both companies are working to finalize the proposed offtake agreement as soon as possible.
The Company has received numerous requests for information related to amount of material per month, per year, how many years, how much the material is going to sell for, etc. At this time, that information is confidential. If at some point the Company receives authorization to release the information from the customer, the company will share the details.
About Saint Jean Carbon
Saint Jean is a publicly traded carbon science company, with specific interests in energy storage and green energy creation and green re-creation, with holdings in graphite mining and lithium claims in the province of Quebec in Canada. For the latest information on Saint Jeans properties and news please refer to the website: http://www.saintjeancarbon.com/
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Saint Jean Carbon Inc.
Paul Ogilvie, CEO and Director
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS:This news release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, concerning Saint Jeans business and affairs. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects or does not expect, intends budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates or 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.
These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, and are naturally subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances that may cause actual results to differ materially. Such forward-looking statements include those with respect to the Companys intention to enter into the proposed offtake agreement (the Proposed Agreement), the Companys ability to fund the purchases of the raw materials required under the terms of theProposed Agreement and the Companys ability to source the volume of raw materials required to satisfy the requirements under the terms of the Proposed Agreement.
These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, and are naturally subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances that may cause actual results to differ materially. There are risks which could affect Saint Jeans ability to satisfy the requirements under the Proposed Agreement, and the future results of the Company which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements including negotiation failure or delay, the impact of general global economic conditions and the risk that they will deteriorate, industry conditions, including fluctuations in the price of raw materials and the risk that they will increase, that required consents and approvals from regulatory authorities will not be obtained, liabilities and risks inherent in Saint Jeans operations, technical problems and equipment failure.
Statements of past performance should not be construed as an indication of future performance. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors, including those discussed above, could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Any such forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this press release, and Saint Jean assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.
The Saginaw Valley State University Board of Control has approved a new master of social work degree program and expenditures up to $1.325 million for campus improvement projects.
This is a huge move for us, said Deb Huntley, provost and vice president for academic affairs, of adding the degree to the universitys array of curriculums. We have well over 400 undergraduate social work students. Many go on to receive masters degrees elsewhere, including Michigan State University. We think this will prompt many of these students to stay at SVSU to continue their studies.
At 440 students, SVSU has one of the largest undergraduate social work programs in Michigan. Officials said in recent years roughly 60 percent of these students who graduated with a bachelors degree transferred to other institutions to pursue a masters degree in social work.
Huntley told the board she expects 20 students to enroll in the new graduate program when it begins in the 2017 fall semester, a number SVSU ultimately expects to grow to 80 new students each year.
The Great Lakes Bay Region and state anticipate a shortage of social workers to meet a projected 12 percent growth in this job market. Board Chair Jenee Velasquez said faculty in the Crystal M. Lange College of Health and Human Services is to be commended for their swift response to the acute need for an advanced degree in social work in the region and throughout the state.
This is a somewhat unique program to this region, Huntley said. Its good to grow and expand in certain areas.
SVSU, said spokesman J.J. Boehm, plans to market the new program to its social work graduates, as well as those graduating in programs such as sociology, psychology, criminal justice and health sciences.
The two capital projects approved by the board center on spending up to $800,000 for maintenance and various improvements to the newly renamed M.J. Brandimore House and up to $525,000 for repair and resurfacing of several campus roadways and parking lots. The campus residence hall, formerly Living Center North, was renamed in honor of Merry Jo Brandimore, who retired last June after a 33-year career in student affairs at SVSU.
In other action, the board:
Appointed a nominating committee for May board elections.
Approved granting emeritus status to Ron Trepkowski, who retired in 2016 after serving on University Police for 36 years, including more than a decade as police chief.
James Muladore, executive vice president for administration and business affairs, offered high praise for Trepkowski.
The resolution speaks to what he accomplished during his career, he said. What it doesnt speak to is the type of person Ron is. Hes one of the most outstanding employees weve had.
Approved granting tenure to 18 faculty: Arundhati Bagchi Misra, mathematics; Jennifer Chaytor, chemistry; Kyle Cissell, chemistry; Adam Coughlin, kinesiology; Denise Dedman, social work; Warren Fincher, sociology; Stacie Krupp, accounting; John Lowry, kinesiology; James McEvoy, biology; Rhett Mohler, geography; Rajani Muraleedharan, electrical and computer engineering; Shiva Nadavulakere, management and marketing; Christopher Nakamura, physics; Annamalai Pandian, mechanical engineering; Timothy Rowlands, criminal justice; Rebecca Schlaff, kinesiology; Jason Scott, biology; Yu Zou, electrical and computer engineering.
There are some rock stars in this group, Huntley said. Im quite pleased to recommend these 18 individuals for tenure.
The following list includes recent reports from the Midland County Sheriffs Office and the Midland Police Department.
Thursday, March 2
3:06 a.m. A motorist was arrested at North Saginaw Road and Hidden Pines Court for drunken driving.
Wednesday, March 1
11:44 a.m. Officers investigated a sexual assault at an Aster Court address.
12:02 p.m. A package was stolen from a vehicle while it was parked at a Jerome Township home. The package was found in the neighbors trash can at the end of the driveway.
1:08 p.m. A motorist was ticketed at Isabella Street and Currie Parkway for speeding and driving an unregistered vehicle.
1:29 p.m. Property was stolen from the 200 block of Harper Lane.
4:19 p.m. Police were called to a Dublin Avenue address for a report of stalking.
5:18 p.m. Property was stolen from the 5000 block of Eastman Avenue.
Midland Police are seeking information about a man wanted on a warrant for robbery.
The suspect has been identified as Nathan James Wonsey. Wonsey is about 6 feet tall and weighs about 230 pounds. The warrant lists three counts of felony robbery.
To the editor:
I am sick to death of hearing America First from President Trump and his crowd. To be sure, America must secure its own defense, its technology and its food and water supply. But if Mr. Trump loves evangelicals so much, he needs to learn a lesson or two about being a light to the nations.
It started with Israel, which was given this task in Genesis 12:3: and by you, all the families of the earth shall bless themselves. In numerous Biblical passages, it was prophesied that Israel would have a fountain of flowing water that would heal the nations.
Of course, we are not Israel. But we are a nation of immigrants and we have a long history of caring for humankind. Americans have gone out from their homeland to build hospitals and provide safe drinking water. I have invested in small-cap international businesses because I want to share something with people in other countries.
Why must we now grasp the good things we have received and hoard them in the name of some sort of populist, isolationist doctrine? Why should we not welcome immigrants simply because they need our help? If we are evangelicals, can we not trust God to care for us as we take the risk to share our bounty, our industrial know-how, our faith with others?
CHERYL WADE
Bay City
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The California estate once known as Neverland Ranch had its price slashed by a third, to $67 million, and its brokers are downplaying the property's ties to its former owner, the late pop star Michael Jackson.
The ranch, acquired by Thomas Barrack Jr.'s Colony Capital Inc. as Jackson faced financial troubles in 2008, was put up for sale for $100 million almost two years ago. Real estate broker Joyce Rey, of Coldwell Banker Previews International, on Wednesday said the property is being "re-introduced to the market" at the lower price. It's now named Sycamore Valley Ranch.
B-1B Lancer deployed to Guam arrives to support AVALON 2017
A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer bomber aircraft lands at Avalon Airport, Geelong, Australia, March 1, 2017. The B-1B is participating in the Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition (AVALON), the largest, most comprehensive aerial event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. While at AVALON, the B-1B will be on static display for airshow participants. This is the first time B-1s have landed in Australia while deployed in support of U.S. Pacific Commands Continuous Bomber Presence mission. The U.S. conducts CBP operations routinely by forward deploying bombers into the region as a deterrence capability supporting security and allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific. Bombers and aircrew commonly participate in combined exercises and operations during CBP deployments. AVALON 2017 provided an ideal forum for the U.S. to showcase the B-1Bs capabilities to our allies, partners and citizens of the Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. John Gordinier)
Medics assigned to the U.S. Air Force 90th Fighter Squadron participated in helicopter rescue training with members of the Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal helicopter unit Feb. 27, allowing participants the opportunity to strengthen necessary skills to rescue downed pilots in the event of an emergency.
Capt. Paul Ward, the 90th FS flight doctor, and Tech. Sgt. Layla Dispense, the 90th FS Independent Duty Medical Technician, underwent helicopter familiarization and safety training, and practiced winching techniques with a civil contractor helicopter unit assigned to RAAF Base Tindal. The training enhanced the medics knowledge and effectiveness should they have to recover a 90th FS F-22 Raptor pilot in need.
I think todays training was awesome, Dispense said. Im very grateful to be able to have this training. Ive gained a lot of knowledge and understanding of [the helicopter units] techniques in rescuing a downed pilot.
Ward explained the rescue process.
In the event that there was a pilot ejection, we would take a chopper to their location with our medical gear, lower the gear and ourselves to the patient, tend to the patient and get them prepped for evacuation, and winch them up on a stretcher, Ward said. In rapid fashion, we would be able to load a patient in need of medical care and transport them to the nearest hospital.
In a real-world rescue, the most desirable capability for a rescue team would be to land the helicopter near the patient, secure them on a stretcher and load them on to the aircraft, however depending on the terrain, that option isnt always possible or the safest, which is why the medics train on winching techniques, requiring a patient to be secured on a stretcher and hoisted up to a hovering helicopter.
If an F-22 pilot ejects, the U.S. medical personnel would be the ones responding so its definitely good for them to be comfortable if they need to board our helicopter and respond to a recovery situation, said Air Crewman Mick Gablonski, the helicopter unit base manager here at RAAF Base Tindal.
The 90th FS F-22s are at RAAF Base Tindal training with RAAF 75 Squadron F/A-18A/B Hornets for Enhanced Air Cooperation exercise activities. EAC is a joint training and exercise initiative under the Force Posture Agreement between the U.S. and Australian governments.
During the exercise activity, Ward and Dispense support the more than 200 U.S. Airmen at RAAF Base Tindal, providing daily medical care and emergency response.
Ward said RAAF Base Tindal members have been very welcoming hosts.
They have embraced us and, right away, were eager to show us around and show us their techniques and skills, Ward said. Ive been to four or five locations now with the 90th [FS] and the helicopter unit and the RAAF medical personnel have been the most hospitable people Ive worked with.
Gablonski highlighted the importance of maintaining interoperability regarding medical evacuation procedures.
We do training with different medical teams from many different countries and military branches, Gablonski said. I think its imperative to have those relationships when we conduct bilateral training so that in the event that we need to respond to a rescue, regardless of what service or what country you come from, the training is consistent.
RALEIGH, N.C., March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Triangle Capital Corporation (NYSE:TCAP) (Triangle or the "Company") today announced that it closed an underwritten public offering of 7,000,000 shares of common stock. Net proceeds from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and estimated offering expenses payable by the Company, were approximately $132 million. The Company intends to use the net proceeds of this public offering to make additional investments in lower middle market companies in accordance with its investment objective and strategies, and for working capital and general corporate purposes. The underwriters have been granted an option, exercisable for 30 days, to purchase up to 1,050,000 additional shares of common stock to cover overallotments, if any.
Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, BofA Merrill Lynch, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC and Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated acted as joint bookrunning managers of this offering. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, BB&T Capital Markets, a division of BB&T Securities, LLC and JMP Securities LLC acted as lead managers, and J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, LLC, Wunderlich Securities, Inc. and Fifth Third Securities, Inc. acted as co-managers for this offering.
The shares of common stock were sold pursuant to a registration statement that has been filed with and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the shares referred to in this press release.
About Triangle Capital Corporation
Triangle Capital Corporation (www.TCAP.com) invests capital in established companies in the lower middle market to fund growth, changes of control and other corporate events. Triangle offers a wide variety of investment structures with a primary focus on mezzanine financing with equity components. Triangles investment objective is to seek attractive returns by generating current income from debt investments and capital appreciation from equity related investments. Triangles investment philosophy is to partner with business owners, management teams and financial sponsors to provide flexible financing solutions. Triangle typically invests $5.0 million - $50.0 million per transaction in companies with annual revenues between $20.0 million and $300.0 million and EBITDA between $5.0 million and $75.0 million.
Triangle has elected to be treated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act). Triangle is required to comply with a series of regulatory requirements under the 1940 Act as well as applicable NYSE, federal and state laws and regulations. Triangle has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Failure to comply with any of the laws and regulations that apply to Triangle could have a material adverse effect on Triangle and its stockholders.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements regarding the plans and objectives of management for future operations. Any such forward-looking statements may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, which involve assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, are generally identifiable by use of the words "may," "will," "should," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "intend," "target," "goals," "plan," "forecast," "project," other variations on these words or comparable terminology, or the negative of these words. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that may be incorrect, and we cannot assure you that the projections included in these forward-looking statements will come to pass. Our actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including the factors discussed in our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and other documents or reports that we in the future may file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Copies of any reports or documents we file with the SEC are publicly available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, and stockholders may receive a hard copy of our completed audited financial statements free of charge upon request to the Company at 3700 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 530, Raleigh, NC 27612.
We have based any forward-looking statements included in this press release on information available to us on the date of this press release, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements, unless we are required to do so by applicable law. However, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that we may make directly to you or through reports that we in the future may file with the SEC, including subsequent annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.
We all do it. Some of us do it quite loudly. Others do it not once, but several times in a row.
Sneezes are everywhere these days, during this, the height of cold and flu season. The chorus of achoos in offices, on buses and in homes often sends bystanders scrambling to get out of the line of germ-spreading fire.
But how far is far enough away to avoid getting hit by a snot-and-fluid projectile? A lot farther than you might or would like to think. We're talking 20 feet or more.
The question of what constitutes an achoo-safe zone has long intrigued sneeze-ologists, better known as doctors, nurses and medical researchers working to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
Recent research, however, offers new insights on the science of sneezing revealing what happens when we sneeze and how far the spray of saliva and mucus can travel.
A sneeze is a reflex reaction, explained Dr. Scott Davies, a physician at Hennepin County Medical Center in downtown Minneapolis who specializes in treating respiratory diseases. It happens when receptors in the nose detect irritants. It can be an odor, such as perfume or smoke. It can be pollen in the air or pet dander any type of allergen, really. For some people, cold air or sunlight can trigger the sneeze reflex. Once the nose receptors sense the irritant, the brain receives a signal and the body responds involuntarily.
"That reflex triggers a violent reaction that involves your neck, the chest, the abdomen, the diaphragm," Davies said. "You create this forceful blast of air through your nose."
The air comes from your lungs, and there's a deep inhale just before the sneeze to produce a large gust of air.
"Kind of like when you're blowing out a candle," Davies said.
So what purpose does sneezing serve?
Cleansing, said Jeanne Pfeiffer, an associate professor at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing and longtime expert in infection prevention and control. Think of it as your body spotting a squatter in the nose that needs to be evicted. The more someone sneezes, the more likely that pesky freeloader is still there. Hold the pepper.
Sneezing helps reset the environment inside the nose, allowing troublesome particles inhaled through the nose to become trapped in the mucus lining, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
For a long time, people on the front lines of sneeze science thought that the droplets scattered from a sneeze traveled only a short distance a couple of feet, perhaps. But a slow-motion video of a sneeze captured recently by Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers uncovered a far more troubling truth: Those sneeze particles can go mighty far.
The video shows in gross detail what happens to the liquid mixture spewed from a person's mouth and nose during a sneeze.
The findings, as described by MIT researchers in the New England Journal of Medicine, show that the droplets spread farther than previously thought aided by a swirling puff cloud.
"The largest droplets rapidly settle within (about 3 to 6 feet) away from the person," wrote lead researcher Lydia Bourouiba, of MIT's Fluid Dynamics and Disease Transmission Laboratory. "The smaller and evaporating droplets are trapped in the turbulent puff cloud, remain suspended, and, over the course of seconds to a few minutes, can travel the dimensions of a room and land up to (19 to 26 feet) away."
So what, then, is your best defense against contamination from a nearby sneeze cloud?
"You can't scamper. It's over before you can move," Davies said. "It's up to the person who's sneezing to prevent this."
Pfeiffer recommends giving some space ahead of time to avoid getting sick.
"We say distance is a barrier," she said. "When someone isn't feeling well but they're not staying home, we like to keep 3 feet of distance."
Back in the day, disease prevention gurus taught us to cover our mouths with our hands when we felt a sneeze coming on. That method, while better than an open-mouthed sneeze, is no longer the preferred method. That's because once your hand is wet and germy, it is easy to transfer those germs to surfaces such as keyboards, pens and doorknobs spreading sickness from person to person.
Pfeiffer and other health professionals now recommend sneezing into a tissue or into our elbow.
Sneezes can travel as fast as 100 mph, by some estimates. And the force of a sneeze? Well, that's nothing to sneeze at, either. Davies said while it's extremely rare, some people have even been injured from sneezing hard.
Jeers
... to members of AFSCME Council 31, the union which represents thousands of Illinois government employees, for voting in favor of authorizing a strike if contract talks don't advance.
A number of other unions already have reached contract agreements with the state, but AFSCME is holding out for its 37 1/2-hour work week and platinum-level insurance.
Illinois is in terrible financial trouble. It would be nice if ASFCME members would acknowledge that fact.
Cheers
... to organizers in Lincoln who are raising money to restore and relocate the iconic Tropics road sign close to its original location along Route 66.
The Tropics restaurant a coffee shop, lounge and restaurant offered Midwest food amid Polynesian decor and a bright neon sign that beckoned to travelers. The restaurant sat near the intersection of Route 66 and Woodlawn Road, near the fairgrounds. The location now will be the new site of the nearby McDonald's restaurant, which is getting a new building.
Such mid-century memories much like the former Pig Hip restaurant in Broadwell and the old Streid's Motel and Restaurant in Bloomington recall the heydays of the Mother Road.
Cheers
... to the idea of naming a stretch of Interstate 55 for former President Barack Obama, the Chicago lawmaker who traveled I-55 frequently when he was working at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield.
Part of I-55 already is named for former Gov. Adlai Stevenson, who hailed from Bloomington. The Eisenhower Expressway in Chicago honors former President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who instituted the nation's interstate highway system. Other parts of Illinois interstate highways are named for Ronald Reagan, Dan Ryan and Will Rogers and the Lincoln Highway cuts through Illinois between its New York-to-California route.
Brrr-rave fund-raisers
... took the plunge last Saturday for the Illinois Law Enforcement Polar Plunge at Miller Park lake, a way to raise money for Illinois Special Olympics. After a week of balmy weather, plungers were covered with snowflakes as they waited their turn to jump into frigid water while wearing swimsuits or costumes.
About $140,000 was raised at the plunge, one of dozens throughout Illinois that raises money for the Normal-based organization.
Hats off
... to our own Bridget Sibthorp-Moecker, regional digital services director for The Pantagraph, who was named one of the Top 25 Under 35 by Editor & Publisher magazine, a trade publication.
Sibthorp-Moecker oversees digital products for news and advertising departments of the Bloomington paper, Decatur Herald & Review and Mattoon-Charleston Journal-Gazette Times-Courier, and also is assigned to a Lee Enterprises corporate team to oversee classified initiatives
The Warrensburg native is a graduate of Illinois State University.
I am a former U.S. Army enlisted soldier and captain. While I rarely ever mention it, I have proudly served my country in peacetime and in the combat zone, defending the values of democracy, tolerance and freedom of expression.
Today I feel compelled to speak up because I believe that democracy is worth fighting for. American democracy is about the free exchange of ideas, and while I may disagree with the views of my fellow citizens, I swore an oath to defend their freedom to express their views. U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis solemnly swore to this oath as well. And the part of the oath that strikes me most today is this, that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion."
U.S. Rep. Davis refused to meet in person with his constituents while Congress was in recess. He recently expressed concern for his safety should he hold a town hall event. As a veteran, I find this suggestion offensive. I find the absence of candor and moral courage an embarrassment and disturbingly laughable. American servicemen and women around the world find themselves in harms way on a daily basis. I doubt the voters of the 13th congressional district of Illinois pose any threat to U.S. Rep. Daviss safety.
Just as military service is non-partisan, constituent service is non-partisan. Just as I fought on behalf of those with whom I disagree, U.S. Rep. Davis should meet with constituents with whom he disagrees and do his job.
William D. Stroud-Boutte, Bloomington
.
A Senegalese designer as accused YSL of replicating her bag for their Fall/Winter 17 collection, which showed in Paris on Tuesday.
YSL produced an extra-long clutch bag for next season, which looks remarkably similar to the Mburu bag designed by Sarah Diouf for her label Tongoro. Diouf, who makes all her products locally in Senegal, told Jezebel she recognized the bag immediately when her assistant sent her a photo of it.
"When I launched the bag, I had a lot of great response because it was something totally unique and original," Diouf said. "I've never seen a 65cm long bag before. The first thing that came to my mind was, Oh wow, this is not happening."
"I've been working in fashion the past eight years and I've never seen that bag design before," she continued. "They [YSL] don't have as many colors as I have, but the design is very, very similar. The way the bag closes is the same system. The overall external design is the same."
Diouf went on to explain the concept behind the bag, which is shaped like a baguette because it is based on "bread" as a reference to the unemployment crisis in Senegal.
"When you wake up in the morning, your bag is where you keep your money, but the bread refers to what keeps you alive," she explained. "It's your living. It's what you eat on a daily basis...I'm African and I'm really trying to portray Africa the way nobody has seen before. I'm doing everything by myself and it's just frustrating for something like that to happen because you feel like you've been robbed. It's culture, not something you can buy."
YSL is yet to respond to Diouf's allegations.
[h/t Jezebel]
Images via tongoro.com and YouTube
Betsy DeVos recently sat as the Secretary of the Department of Education, she and the administration are hoping to let more students be part of charter schools but not a lot of people understand the process. Amid the new plans of the Department of Education, the government just ordered the closure of four low-performing charter schools.
There is a total of 6,900 charter schools and basically, these are publicly-funded and privately-run schools. Today, there is around 3.1 million students are enrolled in different schools located in 43 states in the country, where the first charter school was opened in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1992.
A poll was made in 2014 regarding the people's attitude towards education and it was found out most Americans do not understand charter schools, NPR reported. Fifty-seven percent believed charter schools charged tuition and nearly 50 percent thought charter schools were allowed to teach religion.
The real meaning of charter schools, however, is that these are schools that have a two-sector system. One part is the traditional school district, which is centrally managed, while the other part is independent and is not owned by a central school board.
Both types of charter schools are public but they have the freedom to hire teachers without a union contract. Some charter schools are also for-profit as the school can hire a company to manage its school. According to experts, charter schools are funded by the state but some receive money from private donors. However, this type of educational institution gets less money per pupil compared to traditional public schools.
Meanwhile, four low-performing charter schools in Newark and Camden were recently closed. These schools brought the number of failed charter schools to 20. The schools were identified as Newark Prep Charter School, Paulo Freire Charter School, Merit Prep Charter School and Camden Community Charter School, NJ.com reported.
DeVos and the Trump administration expressed they are strong advocates for charter schools. She was opposed by many regarding the appointment of being the secretary of education as it was feared she will dismantle the public school system. DeVos has not issued any statement yet regarding the closure of the aforementioned four charter schools.
A toddler from Texas died from a dental procedure. Her parents claimed the dental procedure was unneeded and the process was just a money-making scheme.
The toddler, identified as 14-month-old Daisy Lynne Torres, died on March 29, 2016. Anesthesia administered for the treatment of tooth decay was found out to be the cause of the death. The parents of the girl just filed a wrongful death lawsuit.
The dentist, Dr. Michael Melanson, told the mother, Betty Squier, that Torres had six cavities. Melanson also initially told Squier there were only two cavities and that it needed filling to prevent infection. He also said the face of the child was at risk of sinking if the cavities were left unfilled, Courthouse News Service reported. He then told Squier they should set up another appointment but did not say anything about what procedures will be done on the toddler.
Another dentist, Dr. David Williams, a mobile anesthesiologist with Texan Anesthesiology, was said to be in the area for the procedure and Squier said he did not talk about what will be done to her daughter or cautioned her about the additional risks of performing the filling. They also refused to let Squier stay inside the room where her daughter was.
Later, the dentist came out and told the mother they did six cavity fillings, four root canals, and placed crowns on the upper baby teeth of the toddler. The dentist went back to the room but re-appeared later and told Squier there were complications and CPR was administered on the toddler. The Emergency Medical Service team came and tried to revive the girl but was taken to a hospital, where she later died.
The two dentists were named in the lawsuit. The Austin Children's Dentistry and Texas Anesthesiology Association were also named in the lawsuit.
A dental examiner's report after the toddler's death questioned why the girl had to undergo such process when there was no indication of any dental disease. The $1 million lawsuit claimed the procedure was just an attempt to bill Medicaid for the unnecessary dental work, Fox News reported. Squier accused the dentist of doing unnecessary work and that he took advantage of the girl as well as the parents who did not know any better.
Dental centers market the process to low-income parents whose children qualify for Medicaid-funded dental exams, added the complaint. The parents seek actual and exemplary damages.
SAN FRANCISCO, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP reminds investors in Banc of California (NYSE:BANC) of the March 24, 2017 Lead Plaintiff deadline in the pending securities class action.
If you purchased or otherwise acquired securities of BANC between August 7, 2015 and January 20, 2017 and suffered over $50,000 in losses contact Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP. For more information visit:
https://www.hbsslaw.com/cases/BANC
or contact Reed Kathrein, who is leading the firms investigation, by calling 510-725-3000 or emailing BANC@hbsslaw.com.
On October 18, 2016, the price of BANC shares fell nearly 29% after SeekingAlpha published a report stating that BANCs Chief Executive Officer (Steven Sugarman) had undisclosed ties to a criminal convicted of manipulating Gerova Financial Ltd. stock. The Company issued a press release that day stating that BANCs disinterested directors investigated the matter.
However, the SEC issued a formal order of investigation and a subpoena of the Company on January 12, 2017, after which the Company issued a January 23, 2017 statement admitting it made false statements in its October 18, 2016 release. Hagens Berman is currently investigating the extent of these false statements.
The relationship between BANCs senior executives and an admitted financial criminal is obviously information any reasonable shareholder would want to know before investing in a companys stock, said Hagens Berman partner Reed Kathrein.
Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Banc of California should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new SEC whistleblower program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 510-725-3000 or email BANC@hbsslaw.com.
About Hagens Berman
Hagens Berman is a national investor-rights law firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington with offices in 10 cities. The Firm represents investors, whistleblowers, workers and consumers in complex litigation. More about the Firm and its successes can be found at www.hbsslaw.com. For the latest news visit our newsroom or follow us on Twitter at @classactionlaw.
This service applies to you if your subscription has not yet expired on our old site. You will have continued access until your subscription expires; then you will need to purchase an ongoing subscription through our new system. Please contact the Parsons Sun office at (620) 421-2000 if you have any questions
Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!
Thats the story we learn in school, isnt it?
Immigrants were destitute and persecuted, and would have starved had they stayed in their home countries, but the United States offered them refuge.
Whats more, were told, whenever one expresses concerns about assimilation of our current cohort of immigrants, that the native born have always feared lack of assimilation, but each successive cohort of immigrants landed at the bottom, and worked their way up, to be replaced by a new cohort of immigrants at the bottom, a new wave from a new country, now feared and disdained by the very sons-of-immigrants who had forgotten about their roots.
Which is all a very moving story, and suggests that the morally right thing for we Americans who are descendants of immigrants to do, is to continue to allow new waves of immigrants in, with as much generosity as in the past, knowing that history proves that our fears are misguided. We should also think back in our family history and know that its hypocritical to object to the entry of largely poor and uneducated workers, because our ancestors came under similar circumstances.
First Principle: People have the right to migrate to sustain their lives and the lives of their families. . . . When a person cannot achieve a meaningful life in his or her own land, that person has the right to move. . . . While individuals have the right to move in search of a safe and humane life, no country is bound to accept all those who wish to resettle there. By this principle the Church recognizes that most immigration is ultimately not something to celebrate. Ordinarily, people do not leave the security of their own land and culture just to seek adventure in a new place or merely to enhance their standard of living. Instead, they migrate because they are desperate and the opportunity for a safe and secure life does not exist in their own land. Immigrants and refugees endure many hardships and often long for the homes they left behind. As Americans we should cherish and celebrate the contributions of immigrants and their cultures; however, we should work to make it unnecessary for people to leave their own land.
Now, theres a sleight of hand in the move from right to migrate to sustain life to a right to a meaningful life, and from the right to migrate as a right to leave ones home country, into a right to move to the particular country of ones choice, but, apart from that, the clear expectation is that, by the very fact that they are migrants, all migrants are compelled to leave their home countries because of the utter misery there, so that its not even open to discussion whether they needed to migrate or not.
But what if thats not true?
Ive been reading a book that I dug out of my basement, The Transplanted, A History of Immigrants in Urban America, by John Bodnar. Like most such books in my basement, it dates to my college/grad school days, and, in particular, was published in 1985, so I cant attest to the degree to which his ideas have held up or been supplanted by new scholarship (and whether that new scholarship is credible or just new). Fun fact: the image above, from the Wikipedia entry on Italians in the United States , is also the cover photo; I find it interesting that this photograph, at least to me, produces a sense that these people are destitute and downcast but the caption says theyve got more luggage than the few items in the photo, lost in the Ellis Island version of baggage-claim.
Anyway: the first chapters of the book talk about the circumstances in which immigrants came to the United States. There were a number of factors, among them the population growth in any given country, and the inheritance patterns whether the farm is divided among all children/sons, or passed on to the firstborn but also the impact of the industrial revolution and capitalism (in the sense that historians use the term, to talk about the advent of factories owned by capitalists men with capital replacing small family workshops) and large-scale capitalist agriculture; all of these, as well as specific political events (e.g., the impact of the unification of Italy) impacted different parts of Europe at different times. In addition, the simple factor of transportation the ease with which some regions could access ports played a role, and there was a common pattern of migration from one region of the country to another preceding emigration elsewhere.
But heres the key pattern Bodnar observes: it was not the wealthy who immigrated they were doing just fine where they were. It was not the poor, either they couldnt afford to travel, and were more likely to end up in the industrializing cities (or, for the Irish, to cross the Irish Sea to England); it was the middle- and lower-middle class.
Abundant evidence exists . . . to suggest that those departing were not coming from the depths of their respective society but occupied positions somewhere in the middle and lower-middle levels of their social structures. Those too poor could seldom afford to go, and the wealthiest usually had too much of a stake in the homelands to depart. (p. 13)
(Commenter SKJAM! mentioned this just yesterday, coincidentally, in a comment on my Fact-checking the fact-checkers post, which spurred me to take this post out of its half-written draft form.)
To be sure, that wasnt universally true, and certain groups had more push than pull factors (yes, I know about the Irish during the potato famine!) but Bodnar supports this conclusion with details from a number of immigrant groups. Heres a bit about the Italians:
The image of poor peasants fleeing to America has also dominated much of the scholarship on Italian emigrants but closer analysis reveals that the very poor seldom left. For instance, the average yearly wages in Abruzzi e Molise and Calabria were well above those in Tuscany and Lombardy, and yet emigration was heavier from the former provinces than the latter. Usually those who left were in the middle and lower-middle levels of the peasantry. Supplementing this stream was a characteristic segment of artisans, craftsmen, and others with skills which were increasingly difficult to implement in societies undergoing either a commercialization in agriculture or growing competition with manufactured goods. (p. 20)
It is also a key part of the immigrant experience that a fair number of these arrivals were not immigrants at all, but simply migrants. Heres Bodnar again:
No phenomenon is more central to understanding the motives of those moving from agricultural to industrial regions nor more revealing about the predisposition to use industrial wages to improve or maintain status in the rural world than the process of return migration. Because everyone did not or was unable to return should not obscure the fact that a return was usually every emigrants goal. The only major exceptions seem to have been those who had worked as craftsmen or those who ventured to America before 1860 with sufficient capital to initiate farming or commercial enterprises in the new world and groups such as East European Jews who faced severe political restrictions in the homeland. While estimates vary, return rates usually ranged from 25 to 60 percent, although most records on immigration are somewhat imprecise. Hvidt found about 30 percent of the Danes returning, and the German figure was between 35 and 40 percent. About four of every ten Greeks returned, and the Polish figure was only slightly below that. The most likely of all to return were those from central and southern Italy (56 percent) and northeast Hungary. Magyar rates have been estimated at 64 percent and those of Slovaks at 59 percent. (p. 53)
And, indeed, Lazarus wrote her poem with an eye to the plight specifically of Jews escaping persecution in Russia, not with respect to immigrants in general.
Its my understanding that, in many cases, the same is true today. The Syrians and other migrants who flooded into Europe via Turkey over the past several years paid a substantial amount of money for the trip as much as $10,000. There are reports of Africans making there way across the Atlantic into Central America, and then upwards to Mexico and then crossing illegally into the U.S. again, not a cheap voyage.
Now, Ill admit that Im not far enough along in my reading of this book or others to assess the second half of the immigration myth, that each successive cohort of immigrants worked their way up, only to wrongly disdain the new arrivals. I had hoped to do some reading and come to a firmer conclusion on that point before writing this up, but Im running out of steam. But it doesnt seem to fit with with what I know about American economic mobility, at least in its most simplified form. If you think about the urban poor in the 19th century, was it really the case that the children of immigrant factory workers went to school, learned their lessons, and got good office jobs when they graduated? Wasnt it, by and large, the case that those children left school in their early teens (or even earlier) and went to work in those same factories, and only with the advent of the modernization of the economy in the 20th century, that the lot of the urban poor improved, for everyone regardless of how many generations ago their ancestors immigrated? To be sure, there was a certain social and political mobility, as Irish-ancestry politicians came to dominate machine politics, for example, but thats not the same thing as this simplified view of income stratification by time-since-arrival.
What does this mean? Largely, its a matter of what this doesnt mean. The narrative of we have an obligation to welcome destitute immigrants because our ancestors were also once destitute doesnt work, nor does all migrants are always, by definition, only ever coming because they are in dire need. I am not, in this post, expounding on the right decisions about immigration to the United States in the year 2017. Im just saying that we cant make them by telling ourselves incorrect stories about the past.
UPDATE: yes, there are issues with line spacing. Bear with me.
And heres a related article, Syrian Refugees Resettled in the U.S.: Why Them and Not Others? which says that the UNHCR seems to be picking refugees for resettlement to the US seemingly at random, even among people who had a fairly stable living situation, despite the claim that they were sending the most vulnerable, the most needy. Not sure what to make of this but it seemed worth sharing.
Image: By Lewis W. Hine(Life time: 1874-1940) Original publication: Photo-studyImmediate source: Brooklyn Museum, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51292180
This article is as pertinent today as it was when I wrote it over three years ago. At the heart of the immigration debate needs to be the recognition of our system does not meet the present needs of our country. The immigration system today is not the same system as years before, and until substantial reform is attained, we will continue to struggle.
Some time ago I heard a news story on the radio reporting that currently two thirds of cow milkers in the United States are undocumented immigrants. Coming from a four generation dairy family and having spent many hours in a milking parlor, I immediately took interest in the story. Dairy farmers are very attentive to the immigration reform debate since the most basic and most necessary step of their industry is in jeopardy, the milking of the cows. Cows must be milked, and be milked twice a day (and sometimes three times), every single day of the year. Without a labor force, who will milk the cows?
This dilemma points to the heart of the current immigration situation in our country. There is a high demand for low paying, low skilled workers but these workers do not come into the United States through authorized channels. Why dont they come in legally? Many naively state today, my ancestors came here legally, these people must go back, get in line and come in legally. This is a naive statement because those who say it are unaware of the current immigration system. Asking an immigrant today to get in line like an immigrant one hundred years ago can be compared to asking Saint Peter to show you his iphone. It is impossible. There is no line.
The United States Conference of Bishops issued a statement answering the question Why Dont Unauthorized Migrants Come Here Legally? The answer provided is simple: there are no legal paths for most migrants to enter the United States. Currently one can enter the United States legally under one of three conditions: 1) An immediate family member who is a US citizen or resident petitions you, 2) You are fleeing political persecution in your home country and there is fear you may be killed, 3) You are a high-skilled worker and a US company sponsors you.
Most unauthorized immigrants in the United States are low-skilled workers. They work in agriculture, meatpacking, landscaping and construction industries which do not qualify as high-skilled work. An estimated 300,000 undocumented low-skilled workers enter the United States yearly and the US government officially makes available only 5,000 greencards for low-skilled workers. Temporary work visas exist (66,000 per year), but US companies shy away from these because the red tape is tremendous and the expenses are high.
The United States Bishops firmly believe that immigrants should come into the United States lawfully, but they point out that the current immigration system does not recognize the countrys need for low-skilled labor. The demand far exceeds the supply. The Church calls for a reform that increases the number of visas available for low-skilled workers which will decrease the number of unauthorized entries into the country. The Church does not call for open borders since a country without borders is not a country at all.
I encourage you to read this document found under the immigration section of the website of the United States Conference of Bishops. This article titled Why Dont Unauthorized Migrants Come Here Legally? will be a small concrete step to have accurate information regarding the current immigration system and to know exactly what our bishops are calling for in the midst of the immigration debate in our country.
Picture is in the public domain
Patna: For the second day in a row, NDA leaders in Bihar disrupted the state Assembly to build pressure on the Nitish administration to sack Prohibition and Excise Minister Abdul Jalil Mastan for making disparaging remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Disrupting the session a number of times while ignoring the plea of the ruling parties to allow Mastan to present his side of the story, NDA leaders led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said there was no defense to what the minister had said and his apology to Modi was far from satisfactory as it lacked sincerity and a sense of remorse.
As reported, Mastan, whose citizenship is also now being questioned after rumors of him having allegedly migrated from Bangladesh without proper credentials surfaced a few days ago, was seen in a video gone viral inciting a crowd by urging them to beat a picture of Modi with shoes and sandals while also calling him a dacoit, Naxalite, and an extremist.
With no sign of let up from either side, the house was adjourned till 2:00 pm.
"We are not going to work with this administration until Mastan has been fired from his position," said Prem Kumar, the leader of the opposition in Bihar Assembly.
The Grand Alliance leaders, meanwhile, accused the BJP of politicizing the issue despite an apology by the Excise and Prohibition Minister.
"The matter is closed after the minister said sorry in the case," Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said.
Other Grand Alliance leaders, including Congress leader and Education Minister Ashok Kumar Chowdhary tried to change the subject from Mastan to Narendra Modi saying the latter never apologized to the people of Bihar for making his 'DNA' remarks during the campaign phase of the last Lok Sabha elections. He further said that the BJP failed to apologize to both Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for making many 'uncharitable' remarks against them.
HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Air Industries Group (NYSE MKT:AIRI), an integrated manufacturer of precision equipment assemblies and components for leading aerospace and defense prime contractors, announced today that Daniel R. Godin has resigned as Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Godin will remain with the Company until March 24th to assist in the transition. Effective immediately, Peter Rettaliata will assume responsibility as Acting CEO and Michael Brand will assume responsibility as Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Rettaliata and Mr. Brand currently serve as Directors of the Company, and Mr. Rettaliata previously served as CEO until December 2014.
Peter D. Rettaliata served as Air Industries President and Chief Executive Officer for nearly 20 years. Prior to Air Industries, Mr. Rettaliata was with Grumman Aerospace Corporation for twenty-two years and was the Senior Procurement Officer. Professionally, Mr. Rettaliata has served as the Chairman of "ADDAPT", an organization of regional aerospace companies, as a member of the Board of Governors of the Aerospace Industries Association, and as a member of the Executive Committee of the AIA Supplier Council.
Michael Brand was the President of Goodrich Landing Gear, a unit of Goodrich Corporation, from July 2005 to June 2010, and then Goodrich Corporate VP of 787 Entry into Service. Prior to joining Goodrich for over 25 years, he held senior management positions in the Aerospace industry. He began his career at General Electric Corporation and rose to senior management in its jet engine manufacturing operations.
Mr. Michael Taglich, Chairman of the Board of Air Industries commented: The Board of Directors and all of Air Industries thanks Dan Godin for his efforts and wishes him success in his future endeavors. I am very confident that Peter Rettaliata and Michael Brand, who each have deep understanding of Air Industries and extensive Aerospace industry experience, will successfully lead the Company during this period. We are also encouraged by our revenue results for the first two months of this year.
ABOUT AIR INDUSTRIES GROUP
Air Industries Group (AIRI) is an integrated manufacturer of precision equipment assemblies and components for leading aerospace and defense prime contractors. Air Industries operates in three segments: Complex Machining of aircraft landing gear and flight controls, Aerostructures & Electronics, and Turbine & Engine products.
Certain matters discussed in this press release are 'forward-looking statements' intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In particular, the Company's statements regarding trends in the marketplace, the ability to realize firm backlog and projected backlog, cost cutting measures, potential future results and acquisitions, are examples of such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the timing of projects due to variability in size, scope and duration, the inherent discrepancy in actual results from estimates, projections and forecasts made by management, regulatory delays, changes in government funding and budgets, and other factors, including general economic conditions, not within the Company's control. The factors discussed herein and expressed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission could cause actual results and developments to be materially different from those expressed in or implied by such statements. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
Iranian-Kurdish Activist Lured to Government Office and Arrested by Intelligence Ministry
03/02/17
Source International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran
Farzaneh Jalali, an Iranian-Kurdish civil rights activist, has been held at an Intelligence Ministry detention center in the city of Kermanshah in northwestern Iran since being arrested on February 23, 2017, she told her family in a phone call.
Farzaneh Jalali
The ministry's agents arrested Jalali without a warrant while she was on her way to the Property Registration Office in Kermanshah, the Kurdistan Human Rights Network reported on February 26.
"In a coordinated operation on Thursday, February 23, security agents, with the help of the Kermanshah Property Registration Office, contacted this Kurdish activist on the phone and asked her to come to the office to answer questions about an incomplete file," said the report.
"Several agents tried to take Farzaneh Jalali into custody without a warrant outside the post office as she was heading to the Property Registration Office," it added. "The human rights activist resisted and was eventually forced into an unmarked car and taken away."
"Jalali was transferred to the Intelligence Ministry's detention center at Meydan Naft Square and then agents carried out a search of her mother's house and took away her personal belongings including a laptop, books and handwritten material," continued the report.
"Yesterday (February 25), she briefly contacted her family over the phone and said she was being held in the Intelligence Ministry's detention center in Kermanshah," it added.
Due to her peaceful activism as a member of the Tehran University Islamic Students Association, Jalali was banned from continuing her studies at the graduate level in 2010. She had been admitted to the university holding one of the highest entrance examination grades of her class.
Jalali was also the editor-in-chief of the Tehran University's student newspaper, Sobh (Morning), in the late 2000s.
More recently she was helping elementary students who had suffered severe burns in a fire that destroyed their school in the village of Shinabad, in West Azerbaijan Province, in December 2012.
The accident, caused by a faulty heater, became national news and generated public outcry for increased government spending on school facilities.
Ten Nations Pledge To Fight Terrorism, Nurture Prosperity At Pakistan Summit
03/02/17
Source: RFE/RL
A regional economic summit in Pakistan has concluded with 10 nations pledging to collectively fight the "challenge of terrorism" and push for greater collaboration on trade, energy, and infrastructure. Islamabad hosted the daylong Economic Cooperation Organization summit on March 1.
Leaders of the ECO countries post for a group photo at the summit
"There has never been a more opportune time to realize our dreams of connectivity for regional prosperity," said Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.
"We are determined to collectively face challenges such as extremism, terrorism, and drug trafficking in order to realize our vision of making the region a zone of peace and prosperity," he said. "We have committed ourselves to working together for bringing progressive change to the lives of the people in our region, transforming it into a bastion of peace, progress, and prosperity."
Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO)'s countries
Iranian President Hassan Rohani and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan were among the heads of states who attended.
Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan founded the organization in 1985, which now includes most central Asian states.
Afghanistan's ambassador to Pakistan, Omar Zakhilwal, said peace and stability in the region will enable nations to achieve economic goals.
The conference took place under tight security after a wave of recent suicide bombings by various militant groups killed more than 125 people across Pakistan.
Based on reporting by AP and dpa
Iran Devotes Complex To Housing Families Of Fallen Afghan Troops
03/03/17
By Golnaz Esfandiari, RFE/RL
Iranian media regularly report on the funerals of Afghans killed in Syria
Iran has opened a new complex to house the families of Afghan fighters killed in the ongoing Syrian war, where Tehran has teamed up with Moscow to help regional ally President Bashar al-Assad counter an armed rebellion.
The rent-free residences on the outskirts of the capital are funded by one of Iran's wealthiest charities, Astan Quds Razavi, which also oversees a major holy shrine in the eastern city of Mashhad, about 200 kilometers from the border with Afghanistan.
Iranian authorities quietly began deploying armed volunteers, including many Afghans, to complement other Iranian forces advising and fighting alongside Assad's troops after civil war broke out in Syria in 2011.
The February 27 opening ceremony of the apartment complex in the town of Bagher Shahr, outside Tehran, was attended by the custodian of Astan Qods Razavi, Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi. Raisi has been tipped by some as a possible future supreme leader, a post that holds ultimate political and religious power in Iran.
"The families of the martyrs who have sacrificed their loved one to defend Islam and the shrines of holy figures should be given priority," Raisi was quoted as saying by Iranian media at the ceremony.
The move is among the latest acts of support for the families of "martyred shrine defenders" -- Iranians, Afghans, and Pakistanis -- who have died in the conflict in Syria and neighboring Iraq. It echoes the type of state assistance provided to families of Iranians killed in the 1980-88 war with Iraq.
Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi
Iran also uses state media to publicly glorify fallen fighters and highlight their sacrifices while likening them to past "martyrs."
Iranian authorities say the fighters travel to Syria and Iraq voluntarily to defend holy Shi'ite sites. Some reports suggest Afghans are offered financial rewards and residency permits to join the fight in Syria.
The United Nations estimates the number of Afghan citizens in Iran at just under 1 million, but Tehran puts the figure closer to 3 million. Tehran has expelled many Afghans and periodically threatens Kabul with mass expulsions.
Raisi personally handed keys to some of the complex's 36 units to the families of 10 Afghan fighters killed or missing in fighting in Syria. Each key, in a small box, was marked with the name of the family member lost to fighting and the number of the unit where his family would live.
Raisi said the complex had been available and authorities identified families in need to assign them a unit.
Photographs of the event showed the empty apartments decorated with the yellow flag of the Fatemiyoun brigade -- the unit of Afghan militia members said to have been recruited by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC).
Raisi said offering support to the "families of martyrs" would boost the morale of the "shrine defenders."
"The fact that some leave their country to defend Islam stems from their strong faith and beliefs," he added.
The remainder of the units were distributed among the families of the dead fighters by the leader of Friday Prayers in Bagher Shahr, media reported.
There are no precise figures on the number of Afghans killed in Syria.
Iranian media regularly report on their funerals while offering few details about the circumstances of their deaths.
The head of Iran's Foundation of Martyrs said in November that more than 1,000 fighters deployed by Iran to Syria had been killed.
Ali Alfoneh, a Copenhagen-based independent IRGC specialist, told RFE/RL that at least 580 Afghans had been killed in combat in Syria since January 2012. He recorded 17 Afghan deaths in Syria in February alone.
Alfoneh said that by mobilizing Afghans, Pakistanis, and other Shi'ite fighters, Tehran had managed to not only significantly reduce Iranian losses in Syria but also train "a multinational Shi'ite fighting force capable of fighting future wars by proxy."
Iran and Russia, which has conducted an intense bombardment campaign and has a widening military footprint in Syria, have been major backers of Assad. In addition to troops, Tehran has helped keep Assad in power through financial assistance.
Iran's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant Generates 6.2b KWh Energy
03/03/17
Source: Mehr News Agency
Around 6.2 billion kWh of energy has been delivered to the country's power grid, executive office of Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant Operation Co. reported to Iran's nuclear chief on Sunday.
Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant
Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran Ali Akbar Salehi paid a visit to Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant on Sunday where he monitored various stages of fuel change, semi-major overhauls, as well as activities related to objectives of the plant's units 2 and 3.
Continuous and uninterrupted production, and the delivery of about 6.2 billion kilowatt-hours of energy to the National Power Grid, as well as the reduction of the number of Russian experts at the site from around 300 in the last three years to about 25 in the current year were some of the notable factors on the report.
Bushehr nuclear power plant (source: Google Earth)
(view on google map)
In another part of the tour, Nuclear Power Plants Maintenance and Support Co. (TAPNA) presented Salehi with a report on the maintenance currently underway at the plant and discussed the role of Iranian experts and companies and the drop in the shares of Russian contractors. The report further outlined the company's future plans for replacing about 200 Russian technicians and experts with Iranian experts.
Salehi then visited the reactor building where he closely monitored the maintenance of one of the main pumps in the first circuit and the fuel handling in the core of the reactor, and held talks with the experts in charge.
The nuclear chief also visited the site where new units were scheduled to be constructed and it was decided that the site would be assigned to Russian contractors for excavation.
NEW YORK, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Attorney Advertising -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Grana y Montero S.A.A. (Grana or the Company) (NYSE:GRAM) and certain of its officers, and is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons or entities who purchased Grana securities between April 30, 2014 through February 24, 2017, both dates inclusive (the Class Period). Such investors are advised to join this case by visiting the firms site: http://www.bgandg.com/gram.
This class action seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act).
The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, and that: (1) Grana was aware that its Brazilian partner Odebrecht S.A. paid bribes to former Peruvian President Alejandro Toledo to win construction work on a road traveling from Peru to Brazil; and (2) consequently, defendants statements about Granas business, operations and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.
On February 24, 2017, local news magazine Hildebrandt en sus trece revealed that Grana y Montero was aware of $20 million in bribes conferred to former President Alejandro Toledo by Brazilian firm Odebrecht SA. Grana was one of Odebrechts local partners on two sections of a project to pave a road from the Peruvian Amazon to Brazil. Following this news, Grana shares dropped $1.77 per share or over 34% to close $3.32 on February 24, 2017.
A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint you can visit the firms site: http://www.bgandg.com/gram or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Investor Relations Analyst, Yael Hurwitz of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 212-697-6484. If you suffered a loss in Grana y Montero S.A.A. you have until April 28, 2017 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a corporate litigation boutique. Our primary expertise is the aggressive pursuit of litigation claims on behalf of our clients. In addition to representing institutions and other investor plaintiffs in class action security litigation, the firms expertise includes general corporate and commercial litigation, as well as securities arbitration. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
UC Riverside police are investigating two sexual assaults that took place the last week of February. No one has been arrested, UCR spokesman John Warren said.
In both cases the suspect is an acquaintance of the victim, police said. The cases do not appear to be related otherwise, Warren said.
On Feb. 23, a woman reported to UCR police that about 9 a.m. the previous day, she was walking on campus near Olmsted Hall with an acquaintance when the acquaintance sexually assaulted her, according to an alert on the police website.
Then at 9:52 a.m. on Feb. 27, a woman went to the UCR police station to report that she had been sexually assaulted by a recent acquaintance inside an apartment at the university-owned Bannockburn Apartments the night before. The woman met the suspect using a social networking cell phone application, according to an alert.
The university will update the community on the cases, Warren said, but For privacy reasons and in the interests of the integrity of the investigations, we cannot offer additional information publicly at this time.
UCR police suggested that anyone using a social media app to meet people should meet them in a public place, meet in a group setting if possible, let a friend know where you are going and when you will return and do not provide personal details to people unknown to you.
Counseling and psychological services can be reached at 951-827-5531 24 hours a day, police said. Go to counseling.ucr.edu for details.
To file an on-campus report of harassment or sexual violence, go to: Title IX Office, 349 Surge Building, titleix.ucr.edu or call 951-827-7070.
To file a police report, go to the police station at 3500 Canyon Crest Drive or police.ucr.edu or call 951-827-5222.
Community leaders turned up the heat on embattled Alvord Unified trustee Joseph Barragan Thursday, March 2, threatening to start a recall campaign against him.
Barragan came under fire last month when a large group urged him to resign, saying that he posted racist Facebook messages that insult undocumented immigrants, blacks and Muslims. The posts were later deleted.
Your days on the board are limited, said Desiree Rivera, 23, one of the recall organizers who works at Norco College helping Alvord students pursue higher education.
Barragan has refused to resign, denies writing the Facebook posts and said his account was hacked.
Riverside police are investigating the alleged hacking and death threats Barragan said he received.
RELATED: Alvord school trustee asked to resign over alleged racist Facebook posts
Barragan, 21, was the only candidate to file last year for a Trustee Area 2 seat on the Alvord Unified School District board. The seat wasnt on the November ballot and he took office Dec. 8 to help set policy in the district that serves the western Riverside area and part of Corona.
Thursdays board meeting was less contentious than the one Feb. 9 that attracted a standing-room only crowd. Fewer people spoke Thursday and some supported Barragan.
He came to help our students have a better education, said Doris Gale, a former president of the Alvord chapter of the California School Employees Association. We need him here.
In addition to the social media firestorm, Barragan has clashed with school district and union leaders. He said Superintendent Sid Salazar wasted money on a 65,000-square-foot district headquarters in Corona that it pays about $135,000 a month to lease.
Salazar said that the district needed to move out of the previous location in Riverside because it was a health and safety hazard.
Barragan also alleges the district is running up budget deficits that could lead to bankruptcy. Salazar said taxpayer funds are being spent wisely.
Barragan also battled Alvord Educators Association President Leigh Hawkinson after he made unannounced visits to several classrooms. Hawkinson told her members that such visits by trustees could disrupt learning and teachers didnt have to tolerate them.
Thursdays meeting had its share of fireworks.
Teachers union Vice President Mike Kolonics blasted Barragan, saying the trustee had absolutely no evidence to back up his false and malicious accusations.
He condemned Barragans anti-union slurs and criticized him for putting up walls instead of building bridges.
Barragan again took aim at Salazar and Hawkinson during lengthy remarks at the meetings end. He said the district misspent bond money, leaving low-income schools with portable classrooms and in bad condition.
Barragan said he has consulted with an attorney and that his classroom visits will continue.
We know what our rights are, he said.
He said Salazar allowed Alvord teachers to receive raises that make them among the most overpaid.
That prompted Board President Art Kaspereen to tell Barragan to end his remarks. A moment later, Kaspereen said he might ask the board to consider limiting how long trustees can speak.
Barragan didnt address the recall during his comments Thursday.
By law, the process cant begin until Barragan has been in office 90 days.
To qualify a recall for the ballot, proponents must meet several requirements, including collecting valid signatures of 1,713 registered voters in Trustee Area 2 25 percent of the total number, said Riverside County Registrar of Voters Rebecca Spencer.
If enough signatures are collected, the school board must set an election, to be held no less than 88 days and no more than 125 days later.
The cost would depend on whether the proposal is on a general or special election ballot. A special election, the more expensive option, would be $28,000, Spencer said.
Eva Amezola, another recall organizer, said shes confident the effort will succeed. Organizers are figuring out their next steps, she said.
Were not going to waste any time, Amezola said outside the board room.
Told of Barragans earlier remarks that he wouldnt back down, Amezola said his critics arent going anywhere.
Were equally as defiant, she said.
Represent us
Rep. Ken Calvert released a statement on Trumps joint address. Calvert said that we have a deteriorating military, which is untrue and offensive to those who serve. We give approximately $600 billion annually to our military, more than the next seven highest-spending countries combined.
He pledged to fix our broken health care system. What is broken? The ACA expanded coverage to 20 million Americans, kept premiums down more than what would have been so without the legislation, and covered pre-existing conditions. Calverts statement offered no new health plan, and when I tried asking his staff, I was continually directed to Paul Ryans A Better Way, which lacks details and relies upon health savings accounts, dooming poor and middle-class people.
He asserted that regulations and high corporate tax rates hinder job creation. There is no economic evidence that that is the case. Calvert has no expertise to shape economic policy. Instead, he is misinformed and biased toward enriching corporations and multi-millionaire businessmen.
Finally, Calvert alleged that he met with constituents last week. Along with many others, I was literally outside of his private meetings, which his staff repeatedly refused to disclose, and he fled.
Donatella Galella, Corona
The self-serving party
From political correctness, that blocks discussion and speech, to open defiance of immigration law, the Democratic Party at every turn seems to defy logic and promote hate. The California wing is downright embarrassing. OK, I get that they cannot stand our President Trump, but passing Senate Bill 54, mainly to defy him, endangers us all. This bill formally entrenches California as a sanctuary state. This wayward action guarantees that more criminals will roam our streets. Democrats have become so senseless that I am glad I left them and became an Independent. Even Gov. Choo-Choo Brown cannot restrain the nonsense. I have lost all taste for this self-serving party that would endanger us all to try and score political points.
John Cramer, Murrieta
Legacies
Republicans gave us Watergate. Republicans gave us Iran-Contra. Republicans brought us the Iraq War. Obama gave us the Affordable Care Act. What is your problem Republicans?
Elaine Guy, Sun City
Dressed in a white tutu and black leggings, 3-year-old Finley Smallwood practiced ballet moves at her weekly dance class at a Norco studio.
As her mother, Christina Smallwood, and instructor Cristina OConnell encouraged her, Finley lifted each foot while holding onto a walker. As she held up her arms and waved them, Finley commented on the moves she saw in the mirror before her.
I can see it, Finley said.
Only a year ago, such dance moves would have been difficult for the Eastvale girl.
But last October, Finley who was born with cerebral palsy underwent spinal surgery to remove damaged nerves that had affected her ability to balance herself and build muscle mass. This week, the family will fly back to St. Louis for a check-up with doctors that did the surgery.
Josh and Christina Smallwoods efforts to pay for their daughters surgery which wasnt covered by their insurance attracted attention because of a viral crowdfunding campaign in summer that encouraged supporters to post videos of themselves dancing and contribute to her medical fund.
The family ended up hitting its goal of $60,000 within two months thanks to videos posted by supporters from veterans to police officers. Celebrities such as Perez Hilton, contestants from The Bachelor TV show and news anchors at Los Angeles-area TV stations also joined the cause.
Christina Smallwood said she couldnt believe the response. Many who donated continue to follow Finleys progress through Instagram and Facebook postings on the Dare to Dance accounts she created.
Its like people are cheering her on, she said.
Christina, 32, a hair stylist, and Josh, 32, a project manager for a window company, both took time off from their jobs to travel to St. Louis Childrens Hospital in Missouri, which has a Center for Cerebral Palsy Spasticity.
Christina Smallwood recalled donning surgical scrubs and holding Finleys hand as they led her into surgery, which took five-and-a-half hours.
It was a nerve-wracking day she never wants to relive, but at the end, the surgeon said everything went as ideal as possible.
Because Finley had to lay on her back after surgery, the family drove back to California in an RV instead of flying.
Since their return, Finley, who wears braces on her feet, has been going to physical therapy five days a week.
Lauren Zielinski, a physical therapist who has worked with Finley since she was 18 months old, said shes seen improved fluidity in the girls movements since the surgery.
Her balance has made great gains, Zielinski said. Shes started to stand independently for a few seconds. She stands straighter.
As part of her therapy work, Finley rides horseback with a therapist and horse handler walking beside her.
Shes a hard little worker, Zielinski said.
Christina Smallwood calls the dance class at On Pointe Dance Studio their fun day and a break from their routine. Finleys wish to dance is what inspired the campaign in the first place.
O Connell, who owns the studio, offers a one-on-one class with Finley. She said shes passionate about encouraging children of all abilities to dance.
I think dance has just helped speed up her ability to be more mobile on her own, OConnell said.
Finley also is preparing for a dance recital in June at the Riverside Municipal Auditorium, where shell perform to the Disney song, When You Wish Upon a Star.
Gina Pastore, Christina Smallwoods mother and Finleys grandmother, said watching Finleys progress has been a joy.
Its just been a blessing what a strong spirit she has, what a fighting spirit she has, just her sweet ambition for life, said Pastore, who joined them for the ballet class.
Still, Finley has a lot of work to do, Christina Smallwood said.
Doctors told her it could be about two years before her daughter can walk on her own, but she and her husband are more optimistic now.
Hope has been restored in our house, she said. Its crazy. Its like a huge weight has been lifted.
Reach the reporter:
951-368-9558, ighori@scng.com or @ImranGhori1 on Twitter
Two people accused of using mail stolen from residents in Corona, Eastvale, Moreno Valley and other cities to write bad checks and open fraudulent credit card accounts were charged Thursday, March 2, with identity theft.
Joshua Thomas Adame, 33, of Riverside, and Yvonne Gallego Marquez, 38, of Norco, were arrested Tuesday.
Adame is charged with three felony counts of ID theft and one misdemeanor count of possession of a controlled substances, court records show.
He pleaded not guilty Thursday, court records show. Hes being held at the Southwest Detention Center in French Valley, with bail set at $90,000.
Marquez posted a $50,000 bond and was released from jail Wednesday. She was charged Thursday with two felony counts of identity theft and one misdemeanor count of possession of a controlled substances, and a warrant was issued for her re-arrest, court records show.
According to a sheriffs news release, deputies searched Adame and Marquez while conducting a probation compliance check on them in the 1600 block of Hamner Avenue in Norco on Tuesday afternoon.
Deputies located hundreds of pieces of mail stolen from numerous cities, including Norco, Eastvale, Corona, Riverside, Moreno Valley and Irvine, Sgt. Justin Rowan wrote in the release. In addition to the stolen mail, deputies located dozens of stolen credit cards, identification cards, altered checks, counterfeit U.S. currency, numerous laptop computers and a small amount of methamphetamine.
The pair were arrested. Sheriffs investigators are attempting to locate the stolen items rightful owners.
Sheriffs officials asked anyone with information about the investigation to contact the Norco sheriffs station at 951-270-5673.
According to court records, Adame has prior convictions for receiving stolen property, impersonation of a public official and being in possession of illegal drugs. Marquez has priors for identity theft, receiving stolen property and shoplifting.
Staff writer Nikie Johnson contributed to this report.
Hangar 385 has been standing at the end of the row at March Air Reserve base since 1929. But its long run as a functioning part of March Air Reserve Base seems about to come to an end.
Local preservationists have been working to save the historic structure. Rep. Mark Takano, D-Riverside, and former U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., sent a joint letter to the Department of Defense requesting that it not take down the hangar. Even base commander Brig. Gen. Russell Muncy asked the commander of the Air Force Reserve to let him keep the building.
So far, the answer has been no.
But Norco City Councilman Kevin Bash hasnt given up. Bash, who believes proper procedures havent been followed in procuring permission to remove the hangar, is still fighting to save Hangar 385, which was on the national historic register.
It should be treated with more respect, Bash said.
Bash is particularly alarmed at the prospect of losing the old hangar one of eight identical hangars built during then-March Air Fields first major upgrade because he watched a similar loss of history take place in Norco a decade and a half ago. In that instance, several buildings on the Navys Surface Warfare Center were removed.
They tore down the model simulation lab, he said. They tore down the old Norconian laundry, which was still in use. They tore down the old WAVES building, he added, referring to the womens Navy Reserve.
The Norconian laundry was being placed on the national registry while they were taking it down, he said. Its on the historic register but its just a slab of concrete.
Bash has questioned whether regulations regarding historic buildings have been followed in the case of the March hangar. A second structure, Building 441, is also set for demolition. It, too, is on the historic registry. Built in 1931, it initially served as the quartermasters garage. Later, it became a training facility. Building 441 doesnt meet earthquake standards and Bash and others seem less concerned about its loss.
Hangar 385 has remained in regular use throughout its history. Currently, it is a staging area for troops who are deploying from Southern California bases. The main floor of the hanger is filled with rows of chairs where military personnel prepare to ship out.
That function will soon be filled by the bases nearly completed passenger terminal, being built next to Hangar 385. Its the addition of that structure that is responsible for the scheduled demolition of the other two buildings. A current Department of Defense policy freezes the total square footage of buildings on military bases. For each square foot of new construction, and equal amount of old square footage has to be torn down.
In a letter written on behalf of the George A. Ingalls Veterans Memorial Plaza Committee, Norco Mayor Pro-tem Ted Hoffman questioned that policy as simply wrong and disrespectful.
Bash said he agrees with his colleague. Walking through the hangar on Thursday morning, he threaded his way through hundreds of Marines waiting to fly out of March on deployment. He mentioned that his uncle was once stationed at the base.
This is sad, he said, to tear down this building for no other reason than square footage.
Bash is questioning whether the law regarding historic buildings was appropriately followed. Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, provides specific guidelines for that must be followed before a historic structure can be taken down. Bash said he doesnt think adequate consultation and documentation were carried out. He thinks the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation should have been consulted and finds the required historical reports on the two buildings to be inadequate.
Julianne Polanco is Californias State Historic Preservation Officer. She said despite that lack of response and Bashs concerns, the law has been followed. A memorandum of agreement was established between the state office and March officials in 2012. It required the Air Force to meet certain requirements before Hangar 385 and Building 441 could be torn down. The agreement predated Polancos arrival at the state agency.
For those two buildings, as far as Im aware, theyve met their obligations, Polanco said of March officials. They consulted (and) reached an agreement. The mitigation required has been completed. The only action left for them is to remove those buildings.
Bash said the Advisory Council, the national regulatory body, should have been part of the consultation process. The council had requested information from March officials in February 2016, but never received a response. Only recently, on Feb. 3, did the agency once again request information on the planned demolition as well as the documents required under Section 106.
Base commander Muncy said he will carry out the agencys request to provide an administrative record and a list of the actions taken to meet Section 106 requirements. The letter asks for a response within 60 days.
Muncy said demolition was expected before that, but he doesnt plan to release the wrecking ball until hes sure he has clearance.
Im reaching out to my leadership to make sure were not doing anything thats undoable, he said.
March has a unique history. It is one of the militarys oldest airfields. Next year it will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Muncy has shown an appreciation for that history. He reacquired the desk of Gen. Hap Arnold one of the bases colorful early commanders from the March Field Air Museum and has a number of historical items on display in the headquarters office.
He said his hands are tied when it comes to Hangar 385.
The demo of the buildings is tied to the funding that we received for this construction, Muncy said, referring to the new transportation center.
The center, he added, will enhance our ability to be a regional asset, allowing the base to better serve other military bases in the region with their air transportation needs.
Muncy said there was a suggestion at one point to move the hanger to the March Field Air Museum, which sits on the bases western border. But federal money could not be used for the move and the museum did not have the funds to pay for it.
Bash said hes seen little evidence that governmental agencies are told they cant tear down historic buildings when they make a request. The regulations outlined in Section 106, he said, dont seem to have a lot of teeth.
Is the government accountable for things put on the national register? he said. We either have to decide these things are valuable and the National Register means something or it doesnt.
He said hes not hopeful about saving the March hangar.
Preservation is a messy business, he said. Youre always behind the eight ball on things like this, he said. Part of our problem is this is the 11th hour.
It seems likely at this point that without some kind of intervention, a piece of local history will soon disappear.
MURRIETA A U.S. Border Patrol agent who fatally shot a man during an off-duty noise-related confrontation near his Hemet home was sentenced today to 40 years to life in state prison.
John Richard Demery, 42, was convicted in January of second-degree murder for gunning down 27-year-old Adam Thomas of Moreno Valley in the predawn hours of Nov. 8, 2014.
Along with the murder count, the Murrieta jury also convicted Demery of sentence-enhancing gun and great bodily injury allegations.
Riverside County Superior Court Judge John Monterosso imposed the sentence required by law.
According to the District Attorneys Office, the defendant had been disturbed on several occasions by a vehicle peeling out and racing through his neighborhood in the area of Cornell Street and Toledo Drive.
The patrolman was first bothered by the noise on the evening of Nov. 7, 2014, and called Hemet police, who told him they would handle it, prosecutors said.
About 12:45 a.m. on Nov. 8, the defendant heard the sounds again and decided to investigate, taking his flashlight, camera phone and personal handgun, later telling investigators that he anticipated trouble.
Demery wanted to take a picture of the license plate of the car causing the disturbance, prosecutors said. Instead, he ended up in a heated verbal altercation with Thomas, who had parked his car on Cornell. During the argument, Demery pulled his pistol and shot Thomas five times, investigators said.
According to prosecutors, Thomas was unarmed but had taken a fighting stance though he never swung or tried to get physical with the defendant.
The victim died at a hospital a short time later, and Demery was taken into custody without incident.
He was placed on unpaid indefinite suspension following the shooting. According to the Department of Homeland Security, termination proceedings are underway.
DHS officials said that Demery was an agent for six years, working much of that time at the Border Patrols Murrieta station.
RELATED
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Off-duty Border Patrol agent arrested in homicide
Two Inland institutions of higher learning factor into a story about a lawmaker who wants to limit the number of Democrats who can work as professors at Iowa state universities.
According to published reports, Iowa state Sen. Mark Chelgren, a Republican, submitted a bill that would impose a hiring freeze until the number of registered Republicans and Democrats on faculty at state universities is within 10 percentage points of each other.
Chelgren cited his own experience with liberal professors as justification for the bill, NBC News reported. Critics say the legislation unfairly punishes academics for their political beliefs.
That called into question Chelgrens educational background. According to NBC News, Chelgrens online bio on a state government website listed a business degree from Forbco Management school.
An Iowa GOP official quoted by NBC said the school is actually a company that runs a Sizzler steakhouse and that Chelgren didnt earn a degree, but something akin to a certificate from McDonalds Hamburger University.
From NBC:
Shortly after speaking with a reporter, the reference to Forbco Management business degree was removed from Chelgrens biography on the Iowa State Republicans web site.
Chelgren told NBC News on Wednesday he was not trying to inflate his education credentials.
This was not an attempt to inflate anything, he said, adding he was not aware of the error on the web site until a reporter asked about it. I didnt concern myself about this, honestly.
In a telephone interview last week, Chelgren was vague about Forbco. He said it was located outside of Los Angeles and that he got his business degree around 88 or 89. Its going back a ways so I dont remember.
The school is not listed on the federal National Center for Education Statistics list of accredited colleges or universities. And the only Forbco Management in California, records show, is a company that used to operate a Sizzler steakhouse in Torrance, California.
Where does the IE enter into this? Chelgrens online bio stated he attended UC Riverside majoring in astro-physics, geo-physics and mathematics.
He told NBC he took classes for three years but did not graduate, the network reported. University spokesman John Warren confirmed that Chelgren attended the school in 1992 and 1993 with a major in physics.
A UCR spokeswoman confirmed Warrens statement to NBC.
Atlanta, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The following is an article written by Will Gensburg of UPS.
With a population of roughly 1.3 billion people, China offers unprecedented growth opportunities for retailers looking to conduct business internationally.
Chinas National Bureau of Statistics reported last month that online retail sales in China grew 26 percent in 2016 to $752 billion. Thats more than 40 percent of all online sales around the world.
The e-commerce experience in China is on a scale like no other. From shopping on Alibabas Tmall.com storefronts to the immense participation in mobile commerce, consumers in China have high expectations from retailers when it comes to the online shopping experience.
For retailers looking to break into this competitive international market, here are some tips to win with online shoppers in China and succeed in the worlds largest e-commerce market.
Invest in the mobile shopping experience
According to research firm TNS Global, Chinese mobile users spends roughly 30 minutes a day shopping on their phone. China is also the worlds largest smartphone market, accounting for 30 percent of the global market. Retailers should make sure their mobile experience is top-notch and localized for shoppers in China.
The mobile checkout experience, in particular, is important. How important is mobile? According to eMarketer, mobile sales are projected to reach nearly $1.5 trillion globally by the end of 2019. China is driving a huge part of that growth, with mobile sales accounting for nearly half of all of Chinas e-commerce sales.
Mobile payment apps, such as WeChat Pay and Alibabas Alipay, are examples of the types of payment options consumers want. These two payment options use data and analytics to personalize the mobile shopping experience and are now the two biggest players in the Chinese marketplace.
According to the UPS Global Pulse of the Online Shopper study, 73 percent of online shoppers in China say the most important option when checking out online is having a variety of payment options in addition to a credit card.
Understand duties, local taxes and the implications for consumers and your business
According to the UPS study, consumers in China rank duties and taxes as their second most important international shopping issue. Miscalculating duties and taxes or simply not making them available early enough in the checkout process can be detrimental to a retailers success.
For online shoppers, not having a clear understanding of the duties and taxes they are responsible for can be a reason for picking one retailer over another.
In April 2016, as part of an effort to encourage Chinese citizens to purchase goods domestically rather than internationally, the Chinese government changed the tax rules, making purchasing luxury goods overseas more expensive for import.
For retailers, changes to tax rules can cause major roadblocks in their e-commerce strategies. This makes is absolutely critical to show currency conversions and total shipping costs, including duties and taxes during checkout to reduce cart abandonment.
There are solutions available, like UPS i-parcel, which take the complexity out of cross-border e-commerce, making it easier and more flexible for retailers to localize the shopping experience.
This technology provides all the information that consumers need to make purchasing decisions up front including localized duties and taxes, shipping options, delivery times, and local currency and payment options.
Win over loyalists by focusing on quality
Online shoppers in China rank product safety and quality as the top reasons for buying goods from overseas sellers. In fact, 40 percent of Chinese luxury goods purchased in the first half of 2016 were made across borders, according to a report by ContactLab and Exane BNP Paribas Research.
Retailers looking to win over shoppers in China should make product quality a top priority, especially with the rise of Chinas more mature or rational shopper as dubbed by research firm Nielsen.
These consumers, which make up 40 percent of urban online shoppers in China, keep quality top of mind and will search high and low while paying a premium for highly sought-after items.
Quality in the online shopping experience extends beyond the products themselves. Chinese consumers expect retailers packaging, delivery and shipping options to reflect the quality of the item they are purchasing.
For retailers looking to do business in China, its important to partner with a logistics provider that has the global shipping and logistics expertise to deliver on heightened consumer expectations.
Dont be left behind
The biggest risk for retailers looking to grow through international e-commerce is not targeting shoppers in China.
Success begins by partnering with an experienced logistics provider that understands the expectations and behaviors of Chinese consumers and can help deliver a shopping experience that converts these consumers to your customers.
Will Gensburg is the Vice President and Managing Director of UPS i-parcel.
Reprinted with permission of Longitudes, the UPS blog devoted to the trends shaping the global economy.
We welcome the re-use, republication, and distribution of this commentary - as long as you credit us. If you publish, please insert the tagline above, with embedded hyperlink to our site.
A new study by the education trust places UC Riverside ninth in the nation for closing the graduation gap between black and white students.
Historically, black students have graduated at lower rates than their white peers. For decades, colleges have been working to close that performance gap. And while it has narrowed, it persists.
Nationally, the study identified a difference of 22 percentage points (41 percent vs. 63 percent) in the six-year graduation rates of black and white students who entered college as freshmen in 2008.
At UCR, 69.5 percent of black students graduated in that period, actually outperforming white students by 1.7 percentage points. UCR was the only California university in the studys top 10. And while black students had greater graduation differentials at eight other schools, only one among the top 10, Florida State University, had a higher black graduation rate (74.5 percent).
The study also highlighted UCR in its comparison section, where the performance of schools of similar size and similar demographics were evaluated. UCR was compared with University of Illinois, Chicago. Just 43.4 percent of black students at the Chicago campus graduated in six years.
The studys authors attributed part of the observed performance differences to how inclusive the campus atmosphere was, whether black students felt they belonged.
Ken Simons, director of African student programs at UCR, said the university has a long history of promoting its diversity and trying to make sure under-represented students feel at home there. Simons has worked on campus since 1986 and said he was not surprised that UCR was the only California school in the top 10.
Im not trying to pop my collar, Simons said, but we are celebrating our 46th anniversary as a department. Some universities dont have a resource center, so theyre not even in the running. For 45 years weve worked with the entire campus to embrace our students and for faculty and staff to believe in our students and their dreams.
Administrators have been on board too, he said.
One thing that has held steady is a commitment from key campus administrators to ensure to our students that they all matter, he said.
Just belonging is not enough, however.
Michael McKibben is dean of student academic affairs. He said programs that have been put in place to boost graduation rates in general, have been especially beneficial to students of color.
A lot of the federal grants in recent years have allowed us to create learning communities and early research engagement, McKibben said. I think those are really starting to make a difference.
Learning communities are groups of students on the same study path who take all of their courses together for their first year. That system is becoming a permanent part of the universitys program. Early research engagement exposes freshmen to hands-on laboratory work that is tied to studies being done at the school. The idea is to allow science students to become ready to assist in actual research much earlier in their careers.
McKibben, who works in the sciences, said there remains a graduation gap for black students in science, technology, engineering and math.
In my school theres a 2 percent gap, he said, with white students at 50 percent and black students at 48 percent. It was 17 percent five years ago.
And while the black/white gap has considerably narrowed, McKibben noted that Latino students are lagging behind, graduating at only a 37 percent rate in the universitys STEM fields.
There is clearly more work to do, he said, but the trends are in the right direction.
Im proud of the amount of effort weve put into our diverse students, McKibben said. Were reaping the rewards of that.
Thanks to a fantastic description provided by a watchful neighborhood resident, a fugitive from Nevada was in jail Thursday afternoon, March 2, after allegedly burglarizing a Rancho Cucamonga home, an official said.
Lamar Griffin, 19, was arrested 1:30 p.m. on suspicion of burglary, receiving stolen property, possessing burglary tools and providing false identification, booking records show. He was being held at West Valley Detention Center, where his bail was set at $10,000.
Griffin was found to be a fugitive out of Las Vegas with more than $400,000 in outstanding burglary and theft warrants, San Bernardino County sheriffs Deputy Jacob Bailey said.
A possible home burglary in progress was reported 12:40 p.m. in the 8000 block of Monte Vista Street, Bailey said. A person called in to report seeing a person hop over a wall and into a backyard, he said.
Numerous deputies responded to the area and set up a perimeter. Bailey said they found a discarded backpack, which the reporting party said the person had been wearing, and soon found a man, later identified as Griffin, matching the description the reporting party provided.
Deputies confirmed the home had a broken sliding back door and had been ransacked, Bailey said.
Bailey praised the person who reported the incident, saying it was a great example of someone heeding If you see something, say something.
More than 200 law enforcement officers took to Inland Empire streets recently as part of an operation targeting a violent Riverside street gang and resulted in the arrests of eight people, officials said.
Starting at 7 a.m. Wednesday, officials led by the Riverside County Sheriffs Department served multiple search warrants at several locations in Riverside County and one in Ontario in connection to recent gang-related crimes connected to the Westside Riva gang, according to a sheriffs press release.
Along with the arrests, authorities also seized several weapons during the operation including two AR 15 rifles, a modified 12-gauge shotgun, a .22 caliber semiautomatic rifle and multiple rounds of live ammunition, according to authorities.
Officials also discovered a clandestine honey oil lab discovered at one of the search warrant locations in the 15700 block of Jalanie Lane in Moreno Valley.
The Riverside Police Department, Riverside District Attorneys Bureau of Investigations, Central PACT Task Force, Gang Task Force, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Riverside County Probation, Moreno Valley Police, Perris Police and prosecutors assigned to the gang and homicide units from the Riverside County District Attorneys Office assisted in the operation.
Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta has presented the 2017 Budget and Government Economic Policy dubbed the 'Asempa Budget' before Parliament on Thursday, March 2.
Delivering the budget statement on the floor of the House, Hon. Ofori-Atta reiterated the commitment of government to combat corruption in the country.
According to him, as part of the government's objective, it will amend the criminal code to "make corruption a felony instead of a misdemeanor" to serve as a deterrent.
He further stated that the government will further pass the Right to Information Bill to also check the influx of corruption.
Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta assured Ghanaians that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his team of government officials will not disappoint, hence naming this year's budget statement 'Asempa Budget'; to wit the budget with good news.
Bellow are pictorial highlights of the 2017 "Asempa" Budget
2017 Budget Highlights
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Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana
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 Vatican has commended Ghana for her continued efforts to bring peace across the world in various ways including diplomacy and contributing troops to UN Peacekeeping missions.
His Eminence Cardinal Giuseppe Bertello, President of the Governorate of the Vatican City State with the rank of Vice President of the State of Vatican, conveyed Pope Franciss appreciation of Ghanas watchdog role when he paid a courtesy call on me at the Presidency on Friday March 3, 2017.
Cardinal Bertello is the Popes Special Envoy to the celebration of the 40 years of Diplomatic Relations between the Holy See and the Republic of Ghana. He is also the Popes representative to the celebration of Ghanas 60th Independence celebrations. He was accompanied by Archbishop Jean Marie Speich, Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana and Sir Benedict Batabe Assorow, Managing Editor of The Catholic Standard.
Citing in particular Ghanas contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping troops in various trouble spots, Cardinal Bertello said Ghanas continued support for peace and stability had been noted with appreciation by the international community and the Holy Father.
Ghanas stable democracy is also good for Africa. It is an example for all His Eminence Cardinal Guiseppe Bertello added.
Vice President Bawumia commended the Roman Catholic Church for the enormous role it has played in the development of Ghana over the decades, through the provision of schools, hospitals and other infrastructure as well as human resources.
We value and cherish the relationship between Ghana and the Holy See and we look forward to more years of the special, mutually beneficial relationship, Dr Bawumia said.
Source: 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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Some women living in Assin Fosu in the Central region are pleading for clemency for male prison inmates in the region. The motive for the appeal, the woman revealed is to solve the woman to man ratio in the region.
Some of the women in an interview on Adom News revealed that majority of them are single and are being pressured by their families to marry before the end of the year. The situation, some of the women said has become dire causing them to sleep with married men.
Those who are single mothers also disclosed that the few men in the area have shirked their responsibilities due to the keen competition among the women in the area.
The only option left, the women stressed is for President Akufo-Addo to release the male prisoners for them to marry.
The men in the prison are more than the men in our town so please release them for us. we will enjoy with them and have a nice family together and so we beg Nana Addo to pardon the prisoners in our region because our town is dying they bemoaned.
But men in the town are rather blaming the women for not being reasonable with their demands.
The women in our town are not reasonable in their demand, they are not serious, all they know is to spend our monies and walk away that is why they need prisoners to marry, one angry man said.
They however dismissed claims by the women that they are not responsible adding that releasing the prisoners will increase crime rate in the region.
Source: adomonline.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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English Finnish
VVO GROUP PLC
STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE
3.3.2017 AT 19.10
VVO Group plc has published Board of Directors' Report and Financial Statements for 2016 and Corporate Governance Statement for 2016
VVO Group plc has today published Board of Directors' Report and Financial Statements for 2016 as well as the Corporate Governance Statement for 2016.
The publications are attached to this release and are found at the company website www.vvokonserni.fi
Further information:
VVO Group plc
Jani Nieminen, CEO, tel. +358 20 508 3201
Erik Hjelt, CFO, tel. +358 20 508 3225
VVO Group plc offers rental apartments and housing services in Finnish growth centres. The vision of the housing investment company is to be a pioneer in housing and the customer's number-one choice.
Former Deputy Finance Minister Ato Forson has condemned the abolishment of import duties on spare parts, claiming the move will soon make the country a dumping ground for over-aged vehicles and parts.
According to him, the National Democratic Congress government did not introduce such taxes to only generate revenue but also check the importation of over-aged vehicles into the country. He claimed that about 70 to 80 per cent of the spare parts sold at the major hub of used spare parts in the country, Abbosey Okai in Accra, are over-aged vehicle parts. This initiative by the government therefore would rather exacerbate its importation, he said on Onua FM while commenting on the 2017 budget presented to parliament by the Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Attah on Thursday. He described the entire budge as 419 with the sole purpose of deceiving the Ghanaian people.
Source: 3news.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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The Minority Leader in Parliament, Haruna Iddrisu has expressed the difficulty of Parliament, a house of record and law makers, in debating and approving the presidents budget for 2017 without knowing his cabinet ministers.
Referring to the budget and economic policy presented to Parliament yesterday by the finance minister, he said it is part of governments policies so we cannot debate it when we dont know the cabinet of the president.
He quoted Article 76 of the constitution which states, There shall be a Cabinet, consisting of the President, the Vice President and not less than ten and not more than 19 members, and also made reference to Article 72, Cabinet shall assist the President in the determination of general policy of government.
The MP for Tamale South therefore argued that the law says shall and wondered why the president has not brought to the august house his cabinet ministers. He strongly argued on this position when the Speaker of Parliament Aaron Mike Oquaye read a letter sent to him by President Nana Akufo-Addo about names of 10 nominated Regional Deputy Ministers.
The Minority Leader also observed that ordinarily, list of sector deputy ministers should have been presented to the house first before the regional one, nonetheless, if the president chose to present nominees for regional ministerial appointment, so be it, but we demand to know the Cabinet of the President.
But the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu punched holes in his opponents observation. He said there is nowhere in the constitution where a provision compels the president to present his cabinet to Parliament. He conceded that there is a provision that allows the president to choose cabinet ministers, but it is not mandatory or binding on the president to bring them to Parliament.
Though Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu revealed that the names of Nana Akufo-Addos cabinet are public, he could not point to where they were published. However, the Speaker Mike Oquaye intervened by directing the Majority Leader to provide that publication to the Minority Leader and the Minority side for their perusal.
Source: 3news.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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Everyone knows that plastic bags are Bad, but if youre a human being on Earth, even one with the purest intentions, you will know the unutterable disappointment in yourself that comes with arriving at the self-serve checkout and realising you havent brought your hessian grocery totes with you. Each rustle of the supermarkets grey, disposable sacks is an accusatory hiss; you have betrayed the environment, your principles, and every sad-eyed sea turtle currently choking to death on a plastic scrap.
You monster.
But do you know what would prevent that crushing swoop in self-esteem from ever happening again? Banning plastic bags. Its already happened in Italy, Mexico, Brazil, South Africa and many other African nations, China, Bangladesh, a bunch of states in North America, as well as South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Now, Queensland is shaping up to be next to ban the bad bags, with 95% of Queenslanders polled saying that theyd support a total lightweight plastic bag ban.
(By lightweight plastic bags, the government means the disposable supermarket bags that you shove under the sink or in a dusty bag-holder and never use again, not the sturdier retail bags that Aldi make you pay 10c for.)
After posting a discussion paper online, the Queensland government received more than 26,000 submissions in response, with many residents expressing concerns about plastic bags impact on wildlife and the environment.
The government has indicated that it will introduce a bag-banning bill (sorry, Im having fun here) in mid-2017, with the ban rolling out mid-2018. Wildlife Queensland campaigner Toby Hutcheon told the Brisbane Times that the response to the discussion paper was astonishing.
And [it] really reinforces the fact that the state government has got it right in its decision to ban lightweight plastic bags. We have both of the major political parties in the Queensland Parliament supporting this ban. So its very encouraging.
Queenslanders currently use more than 900 million lightweight plastic bags every year, and the bags themselves take more than 1000 years to break down. If we ban em, thats 900 million whispering voices of condemnation silenced, and you can go back to imagining every sea turtle with a mouthful of jellyfish, not garbage. Worth lugging those itchy hessian sacks to Coles every week? You betcha.
Source: Brisbane Times.
Image: American Beauty.
Because Sydney has such a unquenchable bloodlust for venues that actually cultivate and nurture culture and DIY ethics, another small venue has announced that it will be closing up shop in the first half of this year.
Black Wire Records exists in that blurred line between Annandale, Petersham, Stanmore and Leichhardt, and is the latest space to fall under the sprawling gentrification of the Inner West.
Through the poster for an upcoming show, the venue has announced that it will be marking the death of Black Wire.
Its true ???? poster by @lizzienagydraws ?? A post shared by Black Wire Records (@blackwirerecords) on Mar 2, 2017 at 2:29am PST
What does this mean for the live scene in what can be considered the prime hub for alternative music in Sydney? Well its a fucking kick in the teeth, to be perfectly honest. Its ripping away a space that is not only an institution in the underground DIY community, but a welcoming and safe space for folks who want to explore their creative expressions in a venue that is free from prejudice and judgement.
Its a space where one can sit in the back courtyard with a beer and watch folk music and heartfelt poetry, and then come back the next night to an absolute sweatbox of a room filled with writhing humans as a band thrashes about between the iconic bear claws in the corner of the room.
A post shared by James Spence (@jamestomassi) on Sep 20, 2016 at 6:15am PDT
Bands and artists have found their feet and been laid to rest in Black Wire Records, and to have to say goodbye for now is something that Im sure a whole lot of us are not ready to do.
This announcement from the artist/volunteer-run, not-for-profit record store and venue comes as Newtown Social Club prepares to also run its last few shows in the coming months before also shutting its doors.
We will update this story as more information about the future of Black Wire comes to hand because tbh I dont want it to end ever.
Photo: Instagram / @ellottski_r.
Doanld Trumps top law official Attorney General Jeff Sessions has had a pretty shithouse 24 hours.
It was revealed yesterday that during Trumps presidential campaign, Sessions spoke twice with the Russian ambassador, Sergey Kislyak. Thats one thing, and obviously fires people up at a time when questions fly about the connections between Trumps administration and the Russian government.
But the big issue is that he said otherwise in his testimony to Congress while being confirmed as attorney general. There are a lot of slippery words and interpretations and semantics being thrown around but the fact is simple if he lied, that means he lied under oath, and thats the sort of thing that ends your political career pretty fuckin quickly.
Sessions held a press conference today in the midst of a storm of demands from both Democrats and some Republicans that he resign from his role.
I have recused myself in the matters that deal with the @POTUS campaign. Watch AG Jeff Sessions news conference. https://t.co/8G6SFWASRG pic.twitter.com/BEnYQ2WD7m Fox News (@FoxNews) March 2, 2017
Long and short of his conference? Nope, hes not resigning. He denies lying to Congress, and in a somewhat rambling defence assured the assembled press that the conversations with the Russian ambassador were rote and innocuous, and that he did not lie to Congress about their nature. They occurred in the context of many conversations with many different international representatives.
However, he did announce he will recuse himself from investigations of the connection between the Trump campaign and Russia something he probably should have stepped away from before, given that he was a pretty large part of the campaign, especially at the beginning.
I have recused myself in the matters that deal with the @POTUS campaign. Watch AG Jeff Sessions news conference. https://t.co/8G6SFWASRG pic.twitter.com/BEnYQ2WD7m Fox News (@FoxNews) March 2, 2017
Democrats are still demanding he resign. Well keep you posted.
Source: The Guardian.
Photo: Getty Images.
Hey, you know that genuinely gross leak of a Centrelink claimants private information to a journalist? The leak that was okayed by the office of Human Services Minister Alan Tudge, in order to correct the record / win a PR battle with the blogger Andie Fox?
Welp, in an unguarded moment on The Project, Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce just flat-out admitted that certain welfare recipients shouldnt rely on Centrelink to keep their sensitive details under wraps.
After discussing a new push for laws which would grant the Federal Government the ability to publicly share veterans information to counter their negative claims, The Projects hosts pushed Joyce on the Centrelink issue.
Joyce, obviously unprepared for that line of inquiry, fumbled out an assertion that legal frameworks would prevent personal information from being illegally shared. (FWIW, Tudges office has indicated itll use a previously untested legal justification for its actions, should that issue make it to court.)
Then, to the obvious surprise of host Waleed Aly, Joyce said if you want to keep your information absolutely private, dont go and get the dole whilst youve also got a job.
Read: Joyce just admitted that welfare recipients shouldnt take the privacy of their information for granted, especially if they make public assertions about their circumstances which the Department of Human Services disagrees with.
A tense exchange followed as Joyce insisted he wasnt briefed on the contents of tonights chat. The hosts maintained it was, and even name-dropped his media contact, only for a visibly agitated Joyce to turn away from the camera.
Catch the entire exchange below:
Source and photo: The Project / Twitter.
Is there anything as alluring as the promise of a free meal? Its what motivates us to help our acquaintances move house, fill out boring consumer information surveys that will probably sell our details on the Russian black market, line up for hours at burrito shops and consume literal gallons of pho.
But at what point does the prospect a free meal become so enticing that it compels you to pluck a hair from your very own head, place it in the food, and then cry health and safety?
Apparently at the point where you also think youre dining with the Duchess of Netherlands, which is what this particular guest told Brisbanes Casa Nostro Ristorante when she made her booking.
When the two women arrived at the Fortitude Valley establishment, they immediately made things difficult for staff, attempting the kind of intricate (and price-dodging) menu reshuffle that tends to tip a chefs standard simmering fury over into full-blown, cleaver-throwing rage. Or, as Sarah Biuso, one of the co-owners of the venue, put it to the Courier Mail:
They seemed a little pushy.
(Gentle Mrs Biuso).
Apparently unsatisfied when the restaurant wouldnt combine an entree and a main for the price of one meal, the patron in question ate three-quarters of her meal, pulled a strand of hair from her own head, put it on the plate, added salt and oil, and then complained about it.
How do we know all of this?
Because Casa Nostro has CCTV and Instagram and the presence of mind to gift us with this, the most perfectly narrated Busted video in the history of the world:
The lesson? If you want a free meal, just offer to wash some dishes, or call in a favour from that mate you lent $20 to, or invite your mum out (you know shell pay even if you pretend-protest). Dont just pull a strand out of your scrunchie and drop it on your penne, you animal.
Source: Courier Mail.
Image: Instagram / @casanostroristorante.
Truly, this is wonderful.
You know how the Bag Raiders iconic 2009 banger Shooting Stars somehow ended up being 2016s surprising meme? Its just hit the US Billboard charts. This is a thing thats really happening.
The little plucky choon that could is right this very second sitting at #11 on Billboards Hot Dance / Electronic Songs, squished between Scared To Be Lonely by Martin Garrix & Dua Lipa (#10) and Just Hold On by Steve Aoki & Louis Tomlinson (#12).
Just look at these numbers. Last week? Nada. This week? NUMBER ELEVEN, BABY.
Its also appearing on the Digital Song Sales (#7) and Streaming Songs (#13), so its nice to know a little bit of that meme action is turning into $$$ for the Sydney duo.
One half of Bag Raiders, Chris Stacey, spoke to PEDESTRIAN.TV when the memes first started going bonza a couple weeks ago (which they are as lovingly befuddled about as you are).
We had seen a couple of videos I guess, but not a lot at first, he said. There were a couple of times people had made videos that we saw but its only really lately people started tagging us in things and we discovered it all. Past two weeks is when its been really massive. At first we were like, ok this is funny I guess, but I didnt really get it so I thought alright whatever. Once I started seeing a common theme though, such as the big guy jumping off the bridge into the river, that was the first one of the more recent stuff that really got me. So good! That and the Lady Gaga one is so funny.
Happy Friday, yall.
Photo: Facebook / Bag Raiders.
NEW YORK, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Caterpillar, Inc. (Caterpillar or the Company) (NYSE:CAT) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, and docketed under 17-cv-01713, is on behalf of a class consisting of investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Caterpillar securities, seeking to recover compensable damages caused by defendants violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
If you are a shareholder who purchased Caterpillar securities between February 19, 2013 and March 1, 2017, both dates inclusive, you have until May 2, 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]
Caterpillar designs, manufactures, and markets construction, mining, and forestry machinery. The Company also manufactures engines and other related parts for its equipment, and offers financing and insurance. Caterpillar distributes its products through a worldwide organization of dealers.
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: (i) Caterpillar unlawfully used foreign subsidiaries to avoid paying billions of dollars in U.S. taxes; (ii) discovery of the foregoing conduct would subject the Company to heightened regulatory scrutiny and potential criminal sanctions; and (iii) as a result of the foregoing, Caterpillars public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
On March 2, 2017, law enforcement officials executing search warrants raided the Companys facilities in Peoria, Illinois. Later that day, the Company issued a statement discussing the federal law enforcement raids to its facilities, stating: We believe the execution of this search warrant is regarding, among other things, export filings that relate to the CSARL matter, referring to its Swiss subsidiary Caterpillar SARL. Bloomberg News subsequently reported that the warrants sought evidence related to potential crimes, including failure to file or submitting false electronic export information and false and misleading financial reports and statements.
On this news, Caterpillars share price fell $4.22, or 4.28%, to close at $94.36 per share on March 2, 2017.
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
Update: The merger was finalized on July 1, 2017.
A proposed merger between Cornerstone Federal Credit Union and Belco Community Credit Union is one step further to becoming finalized.
The merger received initial approval in October from the board of directors of both credit unions. Regulatory approvals for the merger were received in February from the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and the National Credit Union Administration. On Friday, Belco announced in a statement that the members of Cornerstone voted in favor of the merger.
Amey Sgrignoli, president and CEO of Belco, told PennLive in November that members of both credit unions won't really notice any changes, just improvements, and that no branch locations will close as a result of the merger. The approximately 200 employees of both credit unions will be retained.
Belco currently has 11 branches. The merger would expand Belco's reach further into Cumberland County. While Belco has two branches in Cumberland County, both of which are located in Hampden Township, the merger with Cornerstone will add branches in Carlisle, South Middleton Township and Newville. In addition, Cornerstone maintains a student-run branch at Big Spring High School in Newville.
The Belco Community Credit Union name will remain the same. Leaders from both credit unions are working on the details of how to preserve the Cornerstone brand and its long-standing legacy, the statement said.
Belco Community Credit Union was founded in 1939 and is based in Swatara Township, when 25 employees of Bell Telephone Company each contributed $5 to start the Belco Federal Credit Union. Belco currently serves around 54,000 members and has branch offices in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry and York counties.
Cornerstone Federal Credit Union is based in South Middleton Township and was founded in 1974 by the employees of the United Telephone Company-Eastern Group. The credit union currently has 36 employees and serves nearly 11,000 members.
The proposed merger is not without opposition.
Dave Keffer, who was the CEO of Cornerstone for 33 years until his retirement two years ago, opposes the merger. Keffer recently told the Central Penn Business Journal that among other concerns he believed that Belco would have higher branch costs, would not offer better credit card rates and would take away local control.
Belco expects the merger to be finalized in September, the credit union said in the statement.
PENNLIVE BUSINESS IN 2017
Scenes from Lancaster on St. Patrick's Day on March 17, 2015.
File photo. Mark Palczewski, Special to PennLive.
(Mark Palczewski)
All aboard the Erin Express!
The Philadelphia bar crawl is back this year with two days of drinking: March 4 and March 11.
The Erin Express is a 30-year-strong St. Patrick's Day tradition in Philly. Essentially a fleet of buses drive people around the city to 15 different bars for free. Buses start at 11 a.m. and stop at 6 p.m. -- so this is a strictly day drinking affair.
You join the express simply by hopping on one of the buses -- which will be stopping at each of the bars every 15 minutes or so. Literally, that's all you have to do. Go to a bar, have a drink, hop on a bus, get off at a different bar, have a drink and repeat the process.
The bars get in on the fun too, with many having outdoor festival party spaces and offering special deals.
This year the bars with stops are in South Philadelphia, Center City, Fairmount and University City. Here's a full list:
Blarney Stone (3929 Sansom St.)
Bonner's Irish Pub and "The Warehouse" at the 23rd St. Armory (120 S. 23rd St.)
Cavanaugh's Headhouse Square (421 South 2nd St.)
Cavanaugh's Restaurant and Sports Bar (119 S. 39th St.0
Copabanana (4000 Spruce St.)
Green Room (1940 Green St.)
Liberty Bar (2204 Market St.)
Mace's Crossing (1714 Cherry St.)
New Deck Tavern (3408 Sansom St.)
Paddy Whacks South St. (150 South St.)
Slainte Pub & Grill (3000 Market St.)
Smokey Joe's (210 S. 40th St.)
Wahoos Tacos and More (32nd and Chestnut streets)
Westy's Tavern & Restaurant (1440 Callowhill St.)
Cavanaugh's Rittenhouse is also participating, but it isn't a bus stop.
For more information on the Erin Express, check out erinexpress-philly.com.
DETAILS: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. March 4 and March 11 at various locations in Philadelphia. Cost: Free. erinexpress-philly.com
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An edgier, not-your-grandmother's Weis Markets will soon enter the competitive West Shore market.
Starting 8 a.m. March 9, Weis shoppers will find a totally new shopping experience from the Sunbury based-chain when it opens a prototype store at 4525 Valley Road in Hampden Township.
The 65,000 square-foot store sits near a Giant Food Store off exit 61 of Interstate 81.
Inside the store, shoppers will huddle around a pub for a draft of Sly Fox Brewing Company, Troegs Independent Brewery or St. Boniface Craft Brewing Co. beer from the tap or sit in an ice cream parlor for a chocolate milkshake or a hot fudge sundae.
The store will have an expanded takeout food section with cheesesteaks, panini sandwiches, Asian wok section, pizza and hand-rolled sushi. There will be a Choboni Yogurt Bar, mix-and-match pick K-cup 12-packs, Pennsylvania foods section and more than 1,900 organic and gluten-free products.
In addition, the store will carry 900 types of beer with the popular mix-a-six program priced at $11.99 as well as 500 varieties of wine. It will have a drive-thru pharmacy and gas pumps.
By no means, is this your average Weis store.
"We are sort of a middle-of-the-road supermarket," said Jonathan Weis, the chain's chief executive officer. "We always have one eye on pricing and we compete with massive, massive competitors such as Royal Ahold, Wal-Mart and Wegmans and others who do a tremendous volume. So that tempers our thinking. But, on the other hand, we have to be on trend. We want to be interesting, not boring or dull. We just have a philosophy that we're not going to be afraid to fail."
The store has been a long time in the making for Weis which proposed the location more than six years ago. More than 200 full- and part-time employees have been hired.
The site was chosen for its proximity to a solid, more affluent population base with a lot of discerning customers, Weis said. While it's location is close to competitors, Giant and Wegmans, he said, there is "enough left in the pie we can do a fine business and frankly co-exist."
It is Weis' hope to perhaps incorporate some of the successful elements from the prototype store into the chain's other locations.
"We want this to be our latest and greatest and we have some new ideas here," said Kurt Schertle, the chain's chief operating officer. "What works we will move to the other stores. What doesn't have applications, we won't."
The store will have one of the largest gluten-free and organic sections in the company. It also will offer the largest selection of hummus and probiotics in the company as well as an expanded Asian and hot foods selections.
The ice cream parlor grew out of Weis Market's own line of ice cream produced at a plant in Sunbury. It sells more than 60 flavors of the ice cream in its stores.
"Do we think we know what is going to work? Yes. Is it all going to work? We know it won't and we'll pivot from there," Schertle added.
He emphasized Weis continues its focus on the region with remodeling projects recently completed in Hummelstown and Mechanicsburg as well as the new footprint with the Hampden Township store.
"I think this solidifies our presence in Harrisburg as we continue to grow," he added.
Here are some of the new store's features:
Steelton, A Novel
(Nancy Eshelman | Special to Pennlive)
Keith Hall hasn't lived in Steelton since 1960, but the town has never left him.
From his home in North Carolina, he has written a book, appropriately named "Steelton A Novel," that brings his West Side heritage alive on its pages.
Nancy Eshelman
Although the book is fiction, the setting is familiar to anyone with even a passing knowledge of the steel town. The bars, the clubs, the funeral home, the mill of the 1950s, all come alive as the backdrop for Hall's story.
Its main character is Harry Burger, a steelworker returned from military service who decides he wants to be more than his father and grandfather. We follow the characters as they celebrate Harry's return at the Alva restaurant near the Harrisburg train station, bury the dead at the Baldwin or William Howard Day cemeteries and visit the Bethlehem Steel Management Club.
What stands between Harry and his dreams is just how ordinary his life is.
"But nothing about Harry stood out," Hall writes. "Everything about him was mediocre. Average student in school. An average worker who punched a clock for almost two years in the bar mill, a nameless shift worker like a hundred other guys. Then his undistinguished time in the service ... three years in the Army with no recognition of any kind. Everything about him was average."
Hall's book isn't. It tells a good story, well written, with a cast of characters that includes a not-quite-honest police chief, a funeral director with a powerful reach and Scrappy Stone, a West Sider with a bright future due to his understanding of data processing, a new system being introduced in the mill.
Hall began writing in June 2016, with the intention of producing a short story. But the saga of Harry and the others grew into a book.
"The story at its core is about the place, the characters and their decisions," Hall said in an interview. "In life, if we do all of the right things, will we be rewarded? Will bad decisions be punished? Or are there other forces at work? To what extent can we control or influence our own lives?"
Hall's life took him from Steelton at 12, to Rutherford, where he spent his teen years. But he spent much of that teen time with friends and family in Steelton, and he worked in the mill during his summer breaks from college.
Hall's professional background is in human resources, and he now runs a consulting business in Research Park, N.C. Still, he speaks proudly of his West Side roots.
"Most of the men in my family were steelworkers, but the women were the true centers of strength," he said.
His grandmother Mary Yovanovich Maljevac, was the oldest living West Sider when she died in 2005 at 95, he said. His mother, Dr. Lorraine Yovanovich Basonic, worked as a cashier at Dundoff's grocery in the 1950s and '60s. Later she attended college, earned a doctorate and eventually retired as an associate dean from Harrisburg Area Community College.
Given his family background, perhaps it's not surprising that Hall is working on a sequel to "Steelton." His only hint: "Look out for the women."
Hall has set several book-signing events in North Carolina and hopes to arrange one locally. HIs book has a website, www.steeltonnovel.com and can be purchased on Amazon.
NANCY ESHELMAN: columnist1@verizon.net
FOXCONN
Old cars are parked across the street from the Foxconn office in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on February 3, 2017. Foxconn said it would build a $30 million factory here in 2013, but t never happened.
(Mark Makela for The Washington Post)
HARRISBURG, Pa. - For some residents of this small city, there was something familiar about Foxconn's recently announced plan to hire up to 50,000 U.S. workers, one of the many hiring pledges from companies rounded up by President Donald Trump in the first weeks of his administration.
The only difference was the scale.
In 2013, Foxconn's chairman sent a jolt through this state capital when he said his company - best known for making Apple iPhones in China - would invest $30 million and hire 500 workers for a new high-tech factory in central Pennsylvania.
Locals were giddy. Foxconn had a small office here, but this seemed like the start of an entire new industry. Pennsylvania's governor boasted about the deal. The Brookings Institution think tank hailed Foxconn's decision as a sign of U.S. manufacturing's strength.
But the factory was never built. The jobs never came. "It just seemed to fade to black" after the announcement, recalled a local official. It was the start of a mystery, created by a chief executive known to promise projects all over the world that never quite pan out. Yet few people seem to notice. Foxconn and others continue to get credit for deals that never take place. In December, Pennsylvania's economic development staff was still touting the $30 million factory that never was.
What happened in Harrisburg provides a skeptical lens for viewing the waves of corporate investment promises being used by Trump as evidence that he is following through on his campaign pledge to reinvigorate U.S. manufacturing. "I'm delivering on everything we promised," Trump said Thursday during a meeting with manufacturing executives at the White House, noting how firms have announced new hiring and factories. "People are saying they've never seen so much happen in 30 days of a presidency."
Foxconn, for example, announced shortly after Trump's election that it plans to invest $7 billion and hire up to 50,000 workers in the United States. Such a hiring spree would catapult Foxconn from a couple thousand U.S. workers to a major employer on par with Chrysler.
Other companies, too, including SoftBank, Alibaba, Intel and IBM, have made an unusual display of loudly announcing their intentions to invest in the United States - all with price tags in the billions of dollars and the promise of tens of thousands of jobs - much to Trump's delight.
"Foxconn is going to spend a tremendous amount of money on building a massive plant," Trump said the day after the investment was revealed, "and probably more than one."
But, as Harrisburg learned, the gulf between these eye-popping announcements and what takes place on the ground can be huge - and frequently overlooked.
"They are scrambling to look good," Mark Selden, senior research associate at Cornell University's East Asian program, said. "It's a sign of the pressure that Trump is placing on everyone in the world to deliver on his agenda."
Companies tend to view these announcements as an opening bid in a negotiation, said Alberto Moel, a senior analyst with Bernstein Research in Hong Kong. Firms know politicians like the splashy headlines. And if everything falls into place - the business climate improves, they extract enough concessions such as tax breaks and free land - they might be able to make it happen.
"It actually puts the onus on the U.S. in a way," Moel said. "They are saying: 'I'm along for the ride. Here's my proposal.' "
If the deal falls apart, as it often does, no one is going to talk about it.
"The government themselves aren't going to remind you of that, Trump has no intention of helping you remember that," Moel said. "What's the downside?"
Trump is far from alone in using corporate announcements as political backdrops. It's why ribbon-cuttings and ceremonial shovels exist.
In 2012, former President Barack Obama visited a new $5 billion Intel computer chip plant in Chandler, Arizona, citing it as "an example of an America that is within our reach." But the facility, known as Fab 42, was never completed. Last week, Intel chief executive Brian Krzanich stood in the Oval Office with Trump to announce a $7 billion investment - essentially, Fab 42 was back on track, with a new price tag and a new president. Trump tweeted his praise.
Even before he was sworn in, it was clear Trump placed greater importance on these job announcements than past administrations.
Among the first signs came in December when Tokyo-based SoftBank's chief executive, Masayoshi Son, stood with the president-elect to announce a plan to invest $50 billion and create 50,000 new U.S. jobs.
Two days after Trump's inauguration, Foxconn chief executive Terry Gou told reporters in Taiwan that his company planned to spend $7 billion on a U.S. factory to make computer displays. It wasn't iPhones - which Trump has said he wants to be "Made in the USA" - but Gou said the factory could create 30,000 to 50,000 U.S. jobs. Details were few, but one clue seized on was the presence of a Pennsylvania state trade representative at Gou's talk.
Foxconn said in a statement that it is "exploring a potential investment that would represent an expansion of our current U.S. operations." But the company could not confirm "the number of jobs that might be created."
Foxconn is a coveted hardware manufacturer because of its size. Last year, it reported $136 billion in revenue. It has more than 1 million employees, mostly in China. A single factory making iPhones or LCD screens can employ tens of thousands of workers. When Foxconn says it will invest in a new plant, the decision can transform a region. That's why countries all over the world are eager to lure Foxconn to their shores.
Gou, Foxconn's founder, for years has described the United States as a "must-go market."
In 2014, as the Pennsylvania deal was quietly dying, Gou teased the opening of a LCD display factory in the states. His company talked with officials in Colorado and Arizona. Nothing happened.
That same year, the company signed a letter of intent to invest up to $1 billion in Indonesia. That investment still has not occurred.
Foxconn said it would invest $5 billion over five years in India as part of an ambitious expansion in 2014. The deal would create up to 50,000 jobs, Gou said. But Foxconn's investment in India has amounted to only a small fraction of what it originally promised.
Similar results were seen in Vietnam, where Foxconn committed to a $5 billion investment in 2007, and in Brazil, where Foxconn spoke of a $10 billion plan in 2011. The company made its first major foray in Vietnam only last year. In Brazil, Foxconn has an iPhone factory, but its investment has fallen far short of expectations.
"There's a pattern here," said Moel, the analyst.
Gou's plans for Harrisburg were revealed in 2013 while he was in the United States on a tour with other Taiwanese business officials to, in part, drum up support for Taiwan's bid to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership, known as TPP. (Coincidentally, Trump pulled the United States out of the trade treaty in his first days in office.)
It was a surprise when Gou said Foxconn planned to invest $30 million over two years in a factory to make technology equipment and servers. Gou noted his company's history in Harrisburg. He said the goal was to create "high-precision, high-tech, high value-added manufacturing in the U.S."
Gou also said Foxconn would donate $10 million to Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh for robotics research.
"IPhone maker Foxconn to invest $40 million in the US," wrote the China Post. "Foxconn to build plant in Pennsylvania," CNN said. Local media quoted state officials as saying Gou would sign a memorandum of understanding and the company was busy scouting sites.
David Black, the President & CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber is shown in his office in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on February 3, 2017.
"There was this intense buzz," recalled David Black, president of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber.
"Lots of us were excited by the opportunity," said Bub Manning, who at the time co-owned a local construction firm. "Anytime something of that size comes along in central Pennsylvania, that's a big deal."
For years, Foxconn has maintained an office with about 50 workers in Harrisburg, a hub of the computer connector industry. The office is in an old brick warehouse. On a recent visit, the building was filled by a half-empty warren of cubicles. A worker declined to comment to a reporter with The Washington Post. According to local government officials, Foxconn has not done any permitted alterations to the building in 15 years.
Manning recalled how his firm tried to chase down information about the planned $30 million factory.
"It felt like I was grabbing Jell-O. It never got any traction," Manning said.
The $30 million factory faded from view.
Foxconn said its $10 million donation to Carnegie Mellon was "moving forward very successfully," with half of the funds having been spent four years later. The school declined to comment.
None of this has stopped the praise for Foxconn's investment in Pennsylvania. Recent stories have referred to the phantom factory as a sign of Foxconn's U.S. beachhead. A state economic development official wrote about Foxconn's $30 million factory as evidence of foreign companies that operate in the Keystone State. (The piece was fixed after The Washington Post inquired about it.)
State officials toured potential sites with Foxconn representatives, the state Department of Community and Economic Development said in a statement. "Unfortunately, a project did not come to fruition." Foxconn attributed the failure to "material changes to the business and operating climate at that time."
"The proof is always in the pudding," said Scott Andes, a senior policy analyst at Brookings.
The assumption is that companies follow through on major announcements. "But it is important to be skeptical," Andes said. "I would hope it's not just smoke and mirrors with Foxconn or any other of these companies."
Feeling burned by the fate of the $30 million factory, some in Harrisburg are cautious about getting their hopes up again.
"We learned something from that," said Black of the Harrisburg chamber.
But, Manning said, it would be hard to not be seduced by the size of Foxconn's ambition, real or not.
"If you smelled a project like that," he said, "you'd get excited even though you know better."
Todd C. Frankel is a reporter covering people and policy.
Two Lebanon County men have been charged with the sexual assault of the same girl throughout roughly eight years beginning when she was the age of 6.
Joseph Leroy Wenzler, 52, of Lebanon, sexually assaulted the girl several times when she was between the ages of 6-12, state police said Thursday.
Eric Todd Snyder, 53, of Myerstown, sexually assaulted the girl several times when she was between the ages of 9-14, according to police.
The sexual assaults occurred in Lebanon and Myerstorwn, police said.
Henzler was arrested and charged with several counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault, endangering the welfare of a child, corruption of minors, indecent assault and intimidation, retaliation or obstruction in child abuse cases.
Snyder was arrested and charged with involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault, endangering the welfare of a child, corruption of minors, indecent assault and selling or furnishing liquor or malt or brewed beverage to minors.
Snyder was taken to Lebanon County central booking for arraignment.
Wenzler was arraigned and sent to Lebanon County Correctional Facility on $50,000 bail.
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The ArcelorMittal steel plant in Steelton plans to lay off about 85 employees in addition to more than two dozen that have already been on extended layoff.
(File)
The ArcelorMittal steel plant in Steelton plans to lay off about 85 employees in addition to more than two dozen that have already been on extended layoff.
An ArcelorMittal spokeswoman told ABC27 that about 85 employees will be laid off for an indefinite period of time when the steel plant reduces its melt shop's crews from two shifts a day to a single shift. Those layoffs come after 27 employees with less than two years of service have been on extended layoff since September.
Ray Napoli, president of United Steelworkers Local 1688, told ABC27 that the layoffs could begin as early as next week.
Calls to ArcelorMittal and Napoli were not returned by the time of publication.
Steelton Mayor Thomas Acri said he was saddened to hear about the layoffs. ArcelorMittal has been an important part of the community, not only for providing employment for those in the area but also for providing tax money for the borough.
The ArcelorMittal steel plant is the largest consumer of borough water and sewer utilities, the largest contributor to the borough's tax base and has employs hundreds of residents.
"Wow," Acri said when he learned about the layoffs. "It's sad. Will it affect the area? Sure it will. It'll affect the borough for taxes. It will affect the economy in the borough."
Acri said the only thing he could hope for was that the layoffs would be temporary. Maybe the company will rehire them when business picks up, he said.
"I hope to hell it's not a long layoff," he said.
ArcelorMittal has been trying to sell the Steelton plant for more than a year.
In December, ArcelorMittal Americas announced a organizational shakeup.
It was announced that ArcelorMittal Americas CEO Lou Schorsch would retire in February and ArcelorMittal USA CEO Andy Harshaw would retire in March. The company's organizational chart has changed with people being moved around to different areas in the company.
The new executives have been tasked with improving the company's earnings by $1 billion in 2016. ArcelorMittal had revenue of $79.3 billion in 2014.
The Steelton plant has gotten several new owners over the years.
The International Steel Group purchased the plant in 2003 from Bethlehem Steel. In 2005, Mittal Steel purchased ISG and took over control of the plant. The company became ArcelorMittal in 2007.
Richard Moyer.png
Richard E. Moyer Jr.
A midstate sex offender who didn't believe it was illegal to watch child pornography if he didn't download it has received a legally-mandated break from a state appeals court panel.
It wasn't that the Superior Court judges sympathized with Richard E. Moyer Jr.
But they had to concede that a Lancaster County judge exceeded the law a bit when the 56-year-old East Cocalico Township man was sentenced.
Moyer's arrest occurred in 2014 after the state Attorney General's Office detected he was accessing child porn on his computer, Judge Anne E. Lazarus wrote in the state court opinion. Agents then raided Moyer's room in the basement of his parents' home.
At first, Moyer denied there was child porn on his computer, investigators said. Then, they said, he claimed he occasionally came across it while downloading files, but always deleted it immediately.
On the drive to the police station, Moyer told an agent that "he was targeting the 13-, 14-, 15-year-old age group and that it was not illegal to download child pornography as long as he deleted it," Lazarus wrote.
Investigators claimed they found 17 child porn images and three videos on Moyer's computer. At trial, Moyer said the porn was already on a used hard drive he bought for his computer, which he purchased at a yard sale.
A county jury convicted him of multiple counts of possessing child porn, along with charges of distribution of child porn and criminal use of a communication facility in 2015. County Judge Dennis E. Reinaker sentenced Moyer to a total of 5 to 15 years in state prison and ordered him to register with state police for life as a sex offender.
Lazarus' court upheld Moyer's convictions, but concluded it had to modify his sentence and the registration requirement. She noted that Reinaker over-sentenced Moyer on seven child porn counts, giving him 2 1/2- to 8-year prison terms on charges where the maximum jail time is capped at 7 years. The paring her court had to do to those sentences doesn't alter Moyer's overall sentence, however.
Lazarus also found that Reinaker couldn't legally impose the lifetime registration requirement. The state court changed that to 25 years.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ceylon Graphite Corp. (Ceylon) (TSX-V:CYL) (OTC:NWNYF) (Frankfurt:CCY) announces that Ceylon Graphite Corp will be attending PDAC Convention 2017 and will be in the Investors Exchange, Booth # 3348, being held from March 5 to March 8, 2017 in Toronto, Ontario.
About PDAC
The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) is the leading voice of the mineral exploration and development community. With over 8,000 members around the world, the PDACs mission is to promote a globally responsible, vibrant and sustainable minerals industry. As the trusted representative of the sector, PDAC encourages best practices in technical, operational, environmental, safety and social performance.
The annual PDAC Convention is regarded as the premier international event for the mineral industry. It has attracted more than 25,000 people from 125 countries in recent years and will next be held March 5-8, 2017 in Toronto.
About Ceylon Graphite Corp.
Ceylon Graphite Corp. is a public company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V:CYL). It is in the business of exploring for and developing graphite mines in Sri Lanka. The Government of Sri Lanka has allocated the company exploration rights in a land package constituting over 100km of exploration grids covering all relevant areas that had historical graphite production dating back from the 1900s to 1930s representing a majority of the known vein graphite occurrences in Sri Lanka. Vein graphite is unique in nature and has a comparatively higher margin due to its purity.
"Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release."
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking information as such term is defined in applicable securities laws, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. The forward-looking information includes statements about the Companys expected attendance at PDAC 2017 Convention. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com).
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Pennsylvanians who fly once a year could spend a combined $1 billion to acquire passports by the end of 2018 as the state-issued ID will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel.
(File )
Pennsylvanians who fly once a year could spend a combined $1 billion to acquire passports by the end of 2018 as the state-issued ID will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel.
Keeping Identities Safe, a not-for-profit prevention group, performed an analysis that found Pennsylvanians' pocketbooks will be hit if the state doesn't come into compliance with a federal law. Travelers from a handful of states -- including Pennsylvania -- will no longer be able to fly domestically with just their driver's license beginning in 2018.
The reason is because these states have decided not to adopt the federal government's minimum identification card security standards -- known as the Real ID Act.
Pennsylvanians will have to use alternate ID forms to pass TSA security checkpoints. The acceptable forms of ID include a passport, military ID or permanent resident card.
"These are very concerning numbers," said Debra Bowman, executive director at the Aviation Council of Pennsylvania. "If Pennsylvania does not act quickly, businesses, families and residents in every corner of the state are going to be severely impacted."
U.S. passports costs $110 for the books and $30 for the passport cards for first-time recipients.
Keeping IDentities Safe estimates that 5.8 million unique Pennsylvania residents will use air travel once during 2018. Since the TSA will no longer accept Pennsylvania driver's licenses, those once per year travelers to spend between $406 and $966 million to acquire passports by the end of 2018.
Rhett Workman, with American Airlines, said forcing people to acquire another form of identification prior to traveling adds unnecessary and avoidable burden to their experience.
"The result will mean either missing important and often personal life events, or seeking alternative, less efficient forms of transportation," Workman said. "In either scenario, Pennsylvanians of all types are being harmed."
Aside from air travel, it may be more difficult for residents to get into military bases, nuclear power plants and federal buildings using just their driver's licenses.
But there is hope on the horizon. Gov. Tom Wolf announced in January that Pennsylvania was granted an extension until June 5, 2017 to fix state law to allow for federal REAL ID compliance.
The extension will allow the Wolf administration to work with the Pa. General Assembly to resolve Pennsylvania's non-compliance during the current legislative session.
Pennsylvania is prohibited from developing new identification by the state's 2012 Act 38, which restricts the commonwealth from participation in the Real ID Act. The Pennsylvania General Assembly's issues with the Real ID included concerns about security and costs of implementing new processes.
The Real ID Act, passed in 2012, is intended to improve accuracy of state-issued identification documents to help inhibit terrorists' ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.
Read the full report by Keeping Identities Safe here.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AMMO, Inc. (OTC:RTROD) (OTC:POWW), a premier American ammunitions designer and manufacturer, announced that, effective today, its stock ticker symbol has changed from RTROD to POWW.
The new ticker symbol reflects the change in the Companys business plan, which now focuses on the ammunition industry, following its successful merger with its predecessor Retrospettiva. No action is required by shareholders as shares held in street name with broker dealers will be automatically adjusted, and stock certificate holders will have their shares automatically adjusted at the transfer agent or broker dealer when such certificates are deposited for sale or safekeeping.
AMMO is led by its Chief Executive Officer Fred Wagenhals, who first founded Action Performance Companies Inc. in 1992 and built it into a NYSE-listed one-stop source for motorsports-related consumer merchandise with over $400 million dollars in annual sales. In 2005, Mr. Wagenhals led the sale of the company for $245 million dollars.
Later this month, the Company will provide the investment community with additional details regarding its new corporate strategy as well as important milestones for 2017 and beyond.
About AMMO, Inc.
AMMO, Inc. (OTC:POWW), headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, designs and manufactures products for law enforcement, military, hunting, sport shooting and self-defense (www.ammo-inc.com). AMMO, Inc. was founded in 2016 with a vision to change, innovate and invigorate the complacent munitions industry. AMMO promotes branded munitions, including the Jesse James line of munitions and accessories, and the OPS (One Perfect Shot) line of munitions.
Forward Looking Statements
This release may contain forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ from those projected due to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the possibility that some or all of the matters and transactions considered by the Company may not proceed as contemplated, and by all other matters specified in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These statements are made based upon current expectations that are subject to risk and uncertainty. The Company does not undertake to update forward-looking statements in this news release to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting such forward-looking information. Assumptions and other information that could cause results to differ from those set forth in the forward-looking information can be found in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (www.sec.gov), including its recent periodic reports.
The Trump administration has been looking north lately for some guidance on policy-making. The latest example appears to be Canada's reform a generation ago of its air-traffic control system, which is now catching attention in Washington. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Donald Trump take part in a joint press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C., in a February 13, 2017, file photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick
The White House has delivered welcome news to proponents of the long-delayed Keystone XL pipeline project, suggesting it's likely to be exempted from a requirement involving the use of American steel that might have complicated its approval. President Donald Trump shows his signature on an executive order on the Keystone XL pipeline, Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Evan Vucci
This Wednesday, March 1, 2017 photo shows a rare clouded leopard cub at the Nashville Zoo in Nashville, Tenn. Zoo officials say the cub was the first clouded leopard to be conceived through artificial insemination with cryopreserved sperm. (AP Photo/Sheila Burke)
SACRAMENTO, Calif., March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rocket engines made by Aerojet Rocketdyne, Inc., a subsidiary of Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AJRD), are now providing in-flight maneuvers for the Intelsat 33e communications satellite, which launched aboard an Ariane 5 rocket from Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana on Aug. 24. Boeing Satellite Systems International, which built the satellite, has announced that the spacecraft is now operational. Intelsat 33e represents the inaugural mission of Aerojet Rocketdynes 100-volt fuel-efficient electric propulsion subsystem. This improved fuel efficiency reduces propellant mass by several hundred pounds, helping to enable the high throughput capability of this new Intelsat Epic Next Generation (EpicNG) satellite.
Congratulations to all on another successful Intelsat mission, and the first mission for the 100-volt electric propulsion thrusters, said Aerojet Rocketdyne CEO and President Eileen Drake. We are honored to continue our valued relationship with Boeing and to help enable the high throughput capability of the new Intelsat EpicNG satellites.
In addition to the electric propulsion subsystem, Aerojet Rocketdyne propulsion on the Intelsat 33e mission includes 16 monopropellant rocket engines: 12 four-Newton MR-111C hydrazine and four 22-Newton MR-106L hydrazine engines, all of which provide attitude control and adjustment, east-west stationkeeping, spin control, decommissioning and settling burns. The MR-111 and MR-106 engines have extensive flight history, each with more than 2,000 flight thrusters delivered with 100 percent mission success.
The electric propulsion subsystem provided by Aerojet Rocketdyne includes a 4.4kW power processing unit, relay box, electrical harnessing and six 2.2kW MR-510 electric arcjet thrusters. Aerojet Rocketdyne has flown more than 170 MR-510 arcjet thrusters with 100 percent mission success. Intelsat 33e is the second of six Intelsat EpicNG satellites being built by Boeing. Intelsat EpicNG is a high performance, next generation satellite platform that delivers global high-throughput capability. Intelsat 33e offers coverage in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
The remaining three Intelsat EpicNG satellites, also being built by Boeing, will all include the same complement of six Aerojet Rocketdyne electric propulsion thrusters for north-south stationkeeping, and 16 hydrazine rocket engines.
Aerojet Rocketdyne is an innovative company delivering solutions that create value for its customers in the aerospace and defense markets. The company is a world-recognized aerospace and defense leader that provides propulsion and energetics to the space, missile defense and strategic systems, tactical systems and armaments areas, in support of domestic and international markets. Additional information about Aerojet Rocketdyne can be obtained by visiting our websites at www.Rocket.com and www.AerojetRocketdyne.com.
Puppy Love will soon be putting more people to work in Seldovia, a town of less than 300 people at the tip of the Kenai Peninsula.
The love comes in the form of salmon pet treats, formerly made in Anchorage and now ready to come home, thanks to funding from the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development.
The goal was always to come back to Seldovia, said Brendan Bieri, Chief Operating Officer ofSeldovia Wild Seafoods. Its a value-added product, so its not like were processing and putting it on ice and shipping it across the bay. Were making and pa...
Here, there, everywhere why car washes seem to be on every corner
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Nigeria files new corrupcion charges against Shell, others over dispute oilfield purchase
ABUJA
Petroleumworld.com 03 03 2017
Nigeria's financial crime watchdog has filed new corruption charges against Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Eni SpA and others regarding the $1.3 billion purchase of a long-disputed oilfield in 2011, according to court documents released on Thursday.
The charges of conspiracy to commit a felony and official corruption were made after an investigation by Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) found new evidence, Jonson Ojogbane, an EFCC senior prosecutor named in the documents, told Reuters by telephone.
Shell and Eni did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Guyana oil output could be refined in Trinidad, Suriname
GEORGETOWN
Petroleumworld.com 03 03 2017
The South American nation of Guyana could send future oil production to Trinidad and Tobago or Suriname for refining, a government official said on Thursday.
Exxon Mobil Corp and partner companies say they have found between 800 million and 1.4 billion barrels of oil off the coast of Guyana, with production expected for 2020.
"We recently had some overtures made by the government of Trinidad and Tobago ... they are operating right now below optimum and they are importing oil from Nigeria," Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman told reporters.
"Suriname has also indicated a willingness to do refining for Guyana. Why? Because they too have a refinery which is performing under par."
Guyana, which currently does not produce oil, is considering whether it would make economic sense to build its own refinery, Trotman said.
The crude discovery triggered a diplomatic dispute with neighboring Venezuela, which lays claim to a portion of Guyana as part of a long-standing border dispute. Guyana says the countries' border was settled over a century ago.
Venezuela has in the past supplied crude to Petrotrin's 168,000-barrel-per-day Pointe-a-Pierre refinery in Trinidad, but is no longer doing so amid ongoing oilfield production problems.
Denver, Colorado, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Medicine Man Technologies Inc. (OTCQB: MDCL), one of the countrys leading cannabis branding and consulting companies, announced today that it has entered into agreements to acquire both Pono Publications Ltd. and Success Nutrients, Inc., each a privately held Colorado corporation. Medicine Man has agreed to issue 7 million shares of its common stock as consideration for the acquisition, which represents approximately 40% interest in the Company.
As a part of this new acquisition, the Company has retained of Mr. Josh Haupt as its Chief Cultivation Officer, noting Mr. Haupt will serve as a key member of management, reporting to the Board of Directors which will now include Mr. Charley Haupt, Joshs father a well-respected professional in the national energy management sector.
The Pono Publications Ltd brand includes the Three A Light cultivation book, along with the recently released professional-grade version developed in collaboration with MMT exclusively for both Three A Light and Medicine Man Technologies clients. This exceptional cultivation methodology is achieving significant results delivering annualized yields of cured cannabis of approximately 700-grams per square foot of flower canopy and is deployable in both greenhouse and indoor based cultivation facilities.
The Success Nutrients and Pono brands provide the key underpinnings of an enhanced cultivation methodology and is essential to the overall Three A Light performance metric. With an investment of two years of research, development and intense testing, this product line was specifically formulated for the cannabis industry and is producing significant results for its users throughout North America.
The synergy of these companies is expected to accelerate growth of all of the Companys product and service lines, including the potential for increased revenues. As an example, the Company anticipates generating additional revenues from its recently announced new product line, Cultivation MAX. At the signing of a clients new Cultivation MAX facility in Clark County Nevada this week, Mr. Josh Haupt stated, This clients five hundred plus light facility and planned expansions should enable us to generate a high six figure annual income starting later this summer, as we complete the integration of the Three A Light Professional Grade and Success Nutrient regimens. However, there can be no assurances that these additional revenues will be generated.
Regarding the acquisition, Andy Williams, MMTs CEO and co-founder noted, We could not be more excited to welcome Pono Publications and Success Nutrients to the Medicine Man Technologies family. I believe Josh Haupt and Three A Light are the best industrial cultivators of cannabis in the world and are unmatched in their ability to produce quality, high-yielding crops. The complimentary nature of Pono and Success Nutrients to our existing practice has already created a new line of business and we believe will allow exponential growth on all fronts, establishing Medicine Man Technologies as the gold standard of cannabis cultivation.
Josh Haupt, principal and founder of Pono Publications and Success Nutrients stated, After spending many years in development of both my proprietary nutrient line and cultivation methodologies, I am pleased to have found a new partnership opportunity that we believe will be mutually beneficial. The fact that Medicine Man Technologies is also a well-known presence in the cannabis industry should allow us to add substantial value back to the business as a whole while making more efficient use of our mutual resources.
While no guarantees can be offered, the Company expects significant revenue growth with the addition with these two innovative business noting that during the first two months of operations in FY 2017, Pono Publications (Three A Light) and Success Nutrients generated strong profitability on revenues in excess of $270,000, a trend the Company expects to continue under Mr. Haupts continued oversight.
About Medicine Man Technologies, Inc.
Established in March 2014, the Company secured its first client/licensee in April 2014. To date, they have provided guidance for several clients that have successfully secured licenses to operate cannabis businesses within their state. It currently has twenty eight active clients in 12 states and Puerto Rico, focusing on working with clients to 1) utilize its experience, technology, and training to help secure a license in states with newly emerging regulations, 2) deploy the Company's highly effective variable capacity constant harvest cultivation practices through its deployment of Cultivation MAX, and eliminate the liability of single grower dependence, 3) avoid the costly mistakes generally made in start-up, 4) stay engaged with an ever expanding team of licensees and partners, all focused on quality and safety that will 'share' the ever-improving experience and knowledge of the network, and 5) continuing the expansion of its Brands Warehouse concept.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release may contain forward looking statements which are based on current expectations, forecasts, and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those anticipated or expected, including statements related to the amount and timing of expected revenues and any payment of dividends on our common and preferred stock, statements related to our financial performance, expected income, distributions, and future growth for upcoming quarterly and annual periods. These risks and uncertainties are further defined in filings and reports by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Actual results and the timing of certain events could differ materially from those projected in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements due to a number of factors detailed from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among other matters, the Medicine Man Technologies may not be able to sustain growth or achieve profitability based upon many factors including, but not limited to, general stock market conditions. Reference is hereby made to cautionary statements set forth in the companys most recent SEC filings. We have incurred and will continue to incur significant expenses in our expansion of our existing and new service lines, noting there is no assurance that we will generate enough revenues to offset those costs in both the near and long term. Additional service offerings may expose us to additional legal and regulatory costs and unknown exposure(s) based upon the various geopolitical locations where we will be providing services, the impact of which cannot be predicted at this time.
Brazil Oil exports rose to 45.7 million barrels new record in February
RIO DE JANEIRO
Petroleumworld.com 03 03 2017
Brazilian oil exports hit their second consecutive record in February, with shipments almost double the level of the same period in 2016, as new offshore production continues to come on stream, government data showed on Thursday.
Oil exports rose to 6.23 million tonnes (roughly 45.7 million barrels), 94 percent higher than in February of last year and 12 percent higher than in January, according to data from Brazil's trade ministry.
The sharp increase is the result of rising production from Brazil's offshore area known as the subsalt, where massive discoveries have been made since the end of the last decade.
The Paris-based International Energy Agency expects Brazil's 2017 output to rise 230,000 bpd on the year to 2.84 million bpd.
New lighter crude from the subsalt area is increasing output and also changing Brazil's production mix, reducing the need to import light crude for its refineries.
The Reuters Trade Flows data has showed that state-run Petroleo Brasileiro SA and other Brazil producers -- including Royal Dutch Shell, Repsol, Petrogal and PetroChina -- are competing more aggressively to gain export market share in the U.S. East Coast, China, India, Malaysia, Singapore and Spain.
NEW YORK, March 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wolf Haldenstein Adler Freeman & Herz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed in United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York on behalf of all persons or entities that purchased Grana y Montero S.A.A. ("Grana" or the "Company") (NYSE:GRAM) securities between April 30, 2014 and February 24, 2017, inclusive (the "Class Period").
Investors who have incurred losses in shares of Grana y Montero S.A.A. are urged to contact the firm immediately at classmember@whafh.com or (800) 575-0735 or (212) 545-4774. You may obtain additional information concerning the action on our website, www.whafh.com.
If you have purchased shares of Grana y Montero S.A.A. within the class period and would like to assist with the litigation process, you may, no later than April 28, 2017, request that the Court appoint you lead plaintiff of the proposed class.
The filed action charges Grana and certain of its officers and directors with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Grana, together with its subsidiaries, provides engineering and construction, infrastructure, real estate, and technical services in Latin America. The company engages in the civil construction, management, and implementation of housing development projects; mining contracting activities, such as mining, drilling, demolition, and other activity related to construction and electro mechanics; and architectural design and installation activities.
The Complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, and failed to disclose that: (1) Grana was aware that its Brazilian partner Odebrecht S.A. paid bribes to former Peruvian President Alejandro Toledo to win construction work on a road traveling from Peru to Brazil; and (2) consequently, defendants' statements about Grana's business, operations and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.
On February 24, 2017, a report disclosed that the Company knew of bribes paid by a partner infrastructure developer Odebrecht in Peru, citing testimony of former Odebrecht executive Jorge Barata. Notably, in January 2017, Peru rescinded a contract to build and operate a pipeline to a consortium formed by Odebrecht and Grana in part because of the alleged bribery scandal. On this news shares of the Company closed at $3.32 per share on February 24, 2017, down $1.77 per share, a decline of 35%. The stock declined an additional 27% on February 27, 2017, to close at $2.44 per share.
Wolf Haldenstein has extensive experience in the prosecution of securities class actions and derivative litigation in state and federal trial and appellate courts across the country. The firm has attorneys in various practice areas; and offices in New York, Chicago and San Diego. The reputation and expertise of this firm in shareholder and other class litigation has been repeatedly recognized by the courts, which have appointed it to major positions in complex securities multi-district and consolidated litigation.
If you wish to discuss this action or have any questions regarding your rights and interests in this case, please immediately contact Wolf Haldenstein by telephone at (800) 575-0735, via e-mail at classmember@whafh.com, or visit our website at www.whafh.com.
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The family of a Bridgeton man fatally shot by police in April is suing the the City of Vineland, Police Chief Rudy Beu and 10 unnamed officers.
The suit, filed in federal court, alleges police actions violated the rights of Richard Bard Jr., 31, and resulted in his death. The family is asking for more than $1 million.
"Due to pending litigation, we can't comment at this time," said Lt. Alan Pagnini, Vineland police.
According to court documents, Bard was seriously injured in a car accident in 2013 and had trouble walking after that.
On April 16, 2016, Bard attended a party in an apartment complex in Vineland. About 11:30 p.m., he left the party with another man, Jonathan Bain, to get cigarettes from another resident.
Police allege the two men were involved in a nearby robbery about 1 a.m. and fled the scene on foot when chased by police. One responding officer shot Bard four times, according to court documents, and he was later pronounced dead at Inspira Hospital.
Bard's family questions the police account of that night.
"He could not have been doing what the police said he did because of the problems he was having since his car accident," Dana German-Bunton, Bard's mother, said in a statement.
Family members say they were not given an explanation why both of Bard's wrists were broken during the incident. The officer who fired the shots was never identified, according to the lawsuit.
"We believe the litigation is necessary to get to the truth of what happened to Mr. Bard during his encounter with the police on April 17, 2016," Conrad J. Benedetto, attorney for the family, said in a statement.
On a cool, bright May day in 1989, New Jersey's Gov. Thomas Kean, accompanied by a jazz band and applause, made a prediction in the newly opened Camden Transportation Center's atrium.
"Good times are coming to Camden," he said. "The good times can now get here by bus and they can get here by train."
Twenty-eight years later, Debbie Murphy, 55, reclined on a bench in that same atrium and snored. Times aren't so good for her.
"There's shelters but they're so far away you have to walk, and it's cold out there," Murphy said. "I just say, sit here."
She's one of more than a dozen slumped on slatted wooden benches in what is now called the Walter Rand Transportation Center at the junction of Broadway and Martin Luther King Boulevard. They are surrounded by sacks and bags, like weary holiday travelers stranded by bad weather far from home. But no homes awaited them, and although some had bus tickets, they weren't going anywhere. Police let the homeless chill in the terminal, Murphy said, if they can plausibly pass as someone waiting for a bus.
Outside, where buses idle and a light rail train clatters past, young, wiry men cough softly, "loosie, loosie," hawking smokes at 50 cents a cig. Less than a block behind them a portent of change rises. Rutgers-Camden's new nursing school is nearly finished, the latest in a torrent of demolition and development remaking the area into an education and medical mecca and sparking major redevelopment dreams for the transportation center itself.
Rand, named after a late state senator with a passion for transportation, is the nexus of South Jersey's public transit, reaching Philadelphia and Camden County by PATCO, Burlington County and Trenton via the River Line light rail, and throughout the rest of the region on 23 NJ Transit bus routes. It's a transit confluence that developers and planners dream about. They foresee a modern, multistory transit hub with stores, offices, and apartments. The first step, a market feasibility study, is underway. Redevelopment of Rand could begin as soon as 2021.
"Urban centers would kill to have the kind of transportation that we have," said Kris Kolluri, CEO of the joint Rowan University/Rutgers-Camden board of governors, which has driven development in Camden's downtown.
Change, though, will require more than shiny new buildings. The drug trade throbs around the transit center, and there are concerns about the homeless who rely on Rand. Along with shelter from the elements, Rand is a magnet for the destitute because of its proximity to social services, said Christina Lemma, program director for Camden County Volunteers of America's homeless outreach team. Plans to move those services elsewhere could be a positive, but Camden -- while good at providing services -- is less adept at offering beds, she said.
On the blocks around Rand, as storefronts and restaurants make way for academia, Camden's people worry they will be made unwelcome in their own city.
"Everything is going to change," said Lamar Adams, 27, as he waited at one of Rand's outdoor bus shelters for a ride to a rehab program in Turnersville. "Camden's going to be a whole different environment."
About 9,000 people a day use the Rand's three modes of travel. Lawyers share space with ex-cons. Parents with children wait with addicts craving a fix. Students, workers, pushers, and crooks all pass through.
In the bus terminal's atrium, Erika Eckler sat, ear buds inserted, among the homeless in a red Rutgers sweater and backpack. She got to Rand by bus from her Cinnaminson home, and was waiting for another to take her to class at Camden County College in Gloucester Township.
"You see a lot of characters down here," the 29-year-old said.
She has never felt unsafe, she said, but "every time I'm down here you get asked for a cigarette, you get asked to use your phone, you get asked for a dollar."
Across Broadway, on the platform beneath the pyramid-roofed PATCO Broadway station, Patricia Clarke, 62, awaited the train to Philadelphia. The Center City properties manager from Pemberton got to Camden after boarding the River Line at the Burlington South Station. Her commute takes an hour and 20 minutes.
"I love it," she said. "It's my peace before I do my job."
In Camden, 35 percent of households have no car, compared with 14 percent in the region, according to the U.S. Census. Getting around often means a stop at Rand. Lena Adams, 26, a Fairview woman shuttling her children between home and school, has been using the transportation hub since she was a student at Creative Arts Morgan Village Academy. She takes the bus now to drop her son off at Camden County Charter School. She waited in the PATCO station with her 2-year-old daughter for her next bus, and said she is accustomed to the begging and drug use.
"Some people just aren't fortunate to make it and some people choose to be this way," she said.
For some, Rand is the last stop. Missing people's families regularly search Camden with one ominous clue: last seen at the transit center. Like Jenna Lord in 2010 or Gerald O'Bryant in 2013, the missing sometimes turn up dead in a forlorn corner of the city after overdosing.
Camden County Police Chief Scott Thomson notes that the city's infamous drug trade thrives on suburban customers. For many, Rand is their entry point.
One suburbanite with a heroin habit used to call Gloucester Township and Somerdale home, and spent his winter nights under a railroad bridge. P.J., who didn't want to give his full name, said that by 1 p.m. his first bag of heroin that day had worn off and he was 70 cents short of the cost of another. He carried a jokey sign "Bet you can't hit me with a quarter" and begged for change to "get what I need."
Tackling the drug trade has been a priority of Camden's police, and it's a must for the area around Rand to be welcoming for students and educators. The department has eliminated half the city's drug-selling locations in two years, said Louis Cappelli, Camden County's freeholder director. The trade has adapted by moving indoors, but is far less visible.
Redevelopment surrounds Rand like a halo. This spring, construction should begin on a Broadway block catty-corner to Rand to raise a $70 million, 65,000-square-foot Joint Health Sciences Center for Rutgers and Rowan. In two months, stores on the other side of Broadway should also be acquired by the Rowan/Rutgers Joint Board. The center will expand there.
The corner of Broadway and Federal Street opposite Rand is also vacant, cleared of the Commerce Building in 2015. By late 2018, the county's Aletha R. Wright Administration Building should also be gone to make way for green space.
The redevelopment frenzy is one reason politicians say a revitalized Camden is more likely today than when Kean made the same promise nearly 30 years ago.
"The momentum is too strong to stop," said Kolluri.
A new transportation center is central to the development plan for Camden's downtown, but what that will look like is uncertain. The $125,000 market feasibility study by the engineering and design firm AECOM should be done in September, but planners already know they want certain elements.
Indoor bus boarding, for one. Rand has a large bus bay, but buses also pick up directly on Broadway in front of the terminal and across the street. A long-promised light rail from Gloucester County to the Rand is a possibility. The new structure could also be multi-story, Cappelli said.
"If you go above it, there's opportunity for economic development."
A 2013 report on downtown Camden estimated that new development could attract up to 5,000 students and almost 600 workers as residents. Apartments above a transit hub, within walking distance of schools and government buildings, could be prized.
The 2013 report from the Cooper's Ferry Partnership proposed $18.5 million for a redesigned transportation center, but that number may not match the final cost. Money, of course, is an issue.
"NJ Transit is out of money, is the number-one obstacle," Cappelli said. The agency, which owns the Rand, said it was working with Camden County on the center's development.
Some funding will likely come from a public-private partnership, Cappelli said. New Jersey's transportation trust fund could also be a source, and officials are hopeful about White House promises for major infrastructure investment.
The redevelopment plans are sure to change downtown Camden, which worries some. Miaton Fitzpatrick waited for a bus to visit his daughter in the Centerville neighborhood, and said any homes in a new transit hub likely wouldn't be occupied by Camden residents because nearly 40 percent of them live below the poverty line.
"That would bring more money to the community but I also think that's going to shut out the minorities that are here that can't afford to get these houses," he said.
The services most needed by the region's poor and homeless - food stamps, Medicaid, child support, and other public assistance - are housed in the Aletha Wright building, and they will be moved to Mount Ephraim Avenue when that is demolished. A methadone clinic nearby on Fifth Street is also moving.
Lemma has mixed feelings about the homeless at Rand. It's indoors and it's a place where providers like herself know they can reach people, she said. But the homeless there need help with mental-health problems and addiction. Shifting services away from downtown Camden to Mount Ephraim Avenue, where there is also job-training assistance, could be a positive, she said. "It would also be nice to have everything in close proximity."
Shelter is needed most, she said. There are 350 beds for the homeless in Camden, county officials said, and without more, the region's homeless will still need a place to stay.
Camden County is considering a 24-hour day intake center for the homeless, county spokesman Dan Keashen said. There are also plans to invest in homeless housing and an office of mental health and addiction.
Those involved with development, such as Kolluri, said a new transit center would not displace people.
"Everybody that uses the station for transportation services should still be able to use it," he said. "This isn't a mechanism through which we intend to gentrify the neighborhood."
Back outside the Rand, people are running hustles a world apart from the eds and meds corridor to come.
In winter, a Senegalese man sold clothes and watches from a sidewalk stand. Near the RiverLine platform, hack cab drivers awaited fares. Near the bus shelters, men hawked white T-shirts and portable phone chargers.
In the PATCO station, Steven Steed, 46 and without a home, spotted a travel mug left atop a ticketing machine.
"You know the law of the land," he said, claiming it. "Finders keepers."
Thousands of people of many faiths and backgrounds filled Independence Mall on Thursday in a "Stand Against Hate," to protest the recent desecration of Jewish cemeteries in Philadelphia and St. Louis, and a spate of bomb threats to Jewish community centers and day schools.
About 100 headstones were discovered toppled at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Wissinoming on Sunday. It was the second reported act of vandalism at a Jewish cemetery in weeks. Headstones at a Jewish cemetery near St. Louis were discovered damaged on Feb. 20.
As the demonstration began at noon in front of Independence Hall, there were reports of vandalism at a Jewish cemetery in Rochester, N.Y.
The rally was sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, which estimated that as many as 5,000 people filled the expanse on Independence Mall.
In the crowd was the Rev. Donna Maree, an Episcopal priest who is rector of Trinity Memorial Church in Center City.
Maree said she had just come back from a visit to Israel with a group of Christians and Jews on Feb. 23, just days before the news of the toppled headstones at Mount Carmel in Northeast Philadelphia made headlines and news coverage worldwide.
"We talked to Palestinians, Jewish Israelis, Ethiopian Jews," said Maree, who made the trip with the Jewish Community Relations Council, which is part of the Jewish Federation.
"People want peace," Maree said. She said she has had contact with Jewish people in Israel about the spate of hate incidents targeting cemeteries, schools and community centers.
"It's disappointing to Jews in Israel that people here have turned to hate."
The Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, pastor of Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, was also at the rally. He said he was saddened by the recent incidents and that it was important to speak out.
"I am reminded of the quote by Martin Niemoller," Tyler said, a reference to the Protestant pastor who spoke out against Adolf Hitler by noting persecution of one group after another, when nothing was said. It ends: "Then they came for me -- and there was no one left to speak for me."
"I am incredibly heartened by the outpouring of so many generations of people who are taking their time to come out in the cold to stand against hate," said Naomi Adler, CEO of the Jewish Federation.
She urged those in the crowd -- blacks, whites, Asians and Hispanics; Jews, Christians, Muslims, and Buddhists to take the spirit of the rally back to their homes and communities. "Share your stories of what justice, love, and mercy are," Adler said.
Among the speakers was Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, who got loud applause when he said he had just spent time in Washington telling President Trump that vandalism and bomb threats were hate crimes and needed to be treated as such.
"To my fellow Jews," Shapiro said, "today it is us, tomorrow it will be LGBTQ people, and another day it will be our African American brothers and sisters or our Latino brothers and sisters.
"But no matter who is being targeted, we are all less safe."
Max Buchdahl, 21, a junior at Temple University and president of Hillel at Temple, said he was encouraged by the gathering of so many people at the place where American democracy was born.
"It's great to see this many people here, and it's incredible that it's across faiths and across racial groups," Buchdahl said. He added that he and other Temple students, Jewish and non-Jewish, went to Mount Carmel, at Frankford and Cheltenham Avenues, to help with restoration efforts.
Also in the crowd was Amnah Ahmad, 29, associate director of the Arab American Development Corp. at Al-Aqsa Mosque in North Philadelphia. She carried a sign that read, "Islam = Peace."
"We came to show love and peace to the Jewish community," Ahmad said.
As she talked to reporters, Barry Ungar, 73, of Haverford, who is Jewish, walked up to her and said, "Any attacks against you are attacks against us."
He continued: "I never thought I would see in my lifetime this kind of danger and fear."
Also at the rally were two other Jewish groups, If Not Now and Jewish Voice for Peace.
Spokespersons for both said that while they condemned the vandalism against Jewish cemeteries, they also condemned hate crimes against Muslims, African Americans and others.
"We stand here as Jews with our fellow Jews," said Ezra Nepon, a spokesman for Jewish Voice for Peace. "We're so glad that they have condemned all kinds of oppression."
The teen accused of breaking into a 72-year-old woman's Chester County house and then leaving her bound and locked in a closet for four days had two prior burglary charges and had previously escaped from a GPS tracking program, officials said Friday.
As family members of the victim watched, the 17-year-old boy, wearing a blue plaid shirt, appeared in Juvenile Court in West Chester, where a court master ordered a psychiatric evaluation and set the next hearing for Friday. The boy did not speak during the proceeding.
His name has not been released because he is a juvenile, but prosecutors said they planned to file a motion to try him as an adult by Monday.
He "poses a danger to the community and is a flight risk," Assistant District Attorney Christine Abatemarco told the court.
The youth's lawyer, Michael Raffaele, who said he had previously represented the boy, did not say after the hearing whether he planned to fight that motion, saying he needed to speak to his client.
The victim's family members declined comment as they left the courthouse.
The boy -- who had escaped from a residential treatment facility in Glenmoore -- allegedly broke into the woman's home in a wooded area of East Brandywine Township; bound and locked her in a lightless closet at the base of a staircase, and began choking her, saying, "You'll be with Jesus soon."
Investigators said he covered her head with a cloth shopping bag, wrapped duct tape around her neck, and tied her arms, knees, and ankles. He left her without food or water in a storage closet, where she was found Sunday -- four days later --- by her daughter-in-law. She was in stable condition after being taken to a hospital.
The woman had never met the teen, said authorities. They believe he walked from the treatment facility, Devereux Brandywine, until he came upon the house.
The teen allegedly stole her credit cards, cellphone and laptop, and made his getaway in her 2013 Fiat 500. He returned to Devereux two days later but was transferred to another facility, according to the district attorney. He was arrested Wednesday.
Neither Abatemarco nor Raffaele would say what the immigration status was of the boy, who is from Thailand.
He had been placed in the GPS program after being arrested for the two burglaries in October in Delaware County. Shortly thereafter, he fled and was found by police walking on a highway near the Delaware-Maryland border with drug paraphernalia, authorities said.
The youth, who had been living in Media, was then placed into the treatment facility, where he stayed until the day of the assault.
Raffaele requested that the teen be evaluated by a doctor familiar with "reactive attachment disorder," a condition in which a child does not establish relationships with parents or caregivers.
The teen is being held at Chester County's youth-detention center.
Former Philadelphia mob boss Ralph Natale believed to be the first sitting La Cosa Nostra boss to testify against his own crime family is finally releasing his tell-all memoir this month.
Last Don Standing: The Secret Life of Mob Boss Ralph Natale is full of anecdotes about Natale's violent tendencies "sprinkled throughout the book like locatelli cheese atop a plate of spaghetti," according to a Philly Mag review by our colleague David Gambacorta.
While that sounds delicious to Clout, Natale's ex-mistress Ruthann Seccio is none too happy that the married mobster, whom newspapers once dubbed "King Rat," has kissed off their entire affair in a couple of sentences.
As in, we're concerned that Seccio, 48, might actually be plotting to kill Natale, 81. He described her in the book as "the only regret I have." Not so smart, Ralph!
Seccio, who still lives in South Philly, says she has been looking over her shoulder for hit men since 1999, when Natale flipped and "left me holding the bag."
"For 17 years, I've been staying in my lane. If they would have done the book correctly, I would have stayed in my lane," Seccio warned. "Now that you don't think my life is worth it, I have to come back out. I'm coming at you, Ralph, with an 8-pack of TNT. If I got to, I will flip a car on I-95 just to be heard. My [expletive] life matters."
Anyone get the sense that this might end badly?
Seccio said she carries a gun legally for her own protection and practices shooting at the range.
"I'm a great shot, believe me," she said. "I just got another [gun]. I put a laser on it."
Natale met Seccio his "future goomah," as he describes her in the book in 1994, when she was sunbathing by the pool with his youngest daughter.
"I didn't go looking for a bald man, my friend's father, 34 years older than me," Seccio said. "He came for me."
Now, she said, she's looking to "take down his book."
Clout has a good idea where Natale is living these days it's within driving distance, we're told but our policy since Natale's release from prison in 2011 has been not to disclose his whereabouts, for obvious reasons.
Last Don Standing is due out March 21. Seccio says, don't bother buying it. "Why spend your money on bull-?" she asked.
But, coincidentally, Seccio says she has a helluva life story of her own if any writers are interested in collaborating.
Highlights include: getting "blown up by a stove when I was in kindergarten," sitting in on "made" mob meetings, and hiding under her mattress with guns until being rescued by the Junior Black Mafia.
What else do you need?
Yo, thats not John Lewis
It happened again.
During President Trump's speech to Congress Tuesday night, Rich Negrin, the former city manager running for district attorney, tweeted a photo of U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans standing beside "one of my heroes," U.S. Rep. John Lewis, the civil rights leader.
Except that wasn't Lewis. It was U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings. Negrin promptly deleted the tweet.
But we can't bust Negrin's cojones on this one. Everybody makes this mistake including Nelson Diaz's campaign during the 2015 mayoral race.
Lewis and Cummings are practically twins. Even the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Lewis' hometown paper, wrote a quick blog post Wednesday with the headline, "That Wasn't John Lewis He Skipped Donald Trump's Speech."
"For what it's worth, Rich also thought that Joe Biden looked different sitting behind the president during the speech. We're thinking we need to get him some glasses. Or a better TV," said Negrin flack Mark Nevins.
He's kidding, people.
"Seriously though," Nevins added, "that's not the first time someone has made that mistake, and when Rich looked more closely, he fixed it right away."
Seth booted from Union League?
The story had the feel of what late-night comedian Stephen Colbert would call "truthiness."
Ralph Cipriano, an ex-Inky reporter who now blogs at BigTrial.net, reported Wednesday that District Attorney Seth Williams had been barred from his favorite haunt, the prestigious Union League on South Broad Street, where he has long been known to hold court with a cocktail in one hand and a cigar in the other.
Cipriano wrote that Williams was turned away at the door for not paying his club dues and later in the evening was still not admitted when he returned with a check from his political action committee.
Williams, in City Hall on Thursday morning for Mayor Kenney's annual budget address, denied the report.
"Not at all," Williams said with a shrug when asked if the BigTrial story was accurate. "It is what it is."
We hear Williams resigned from the Union League last year but could rejoin at any time if he starts paying dues again. And it is difficult to believe the august institution would turn away a former member, check in hand, at the door.
Nonetheless, Cipriano stood by his reporting Thursday, saying, "To quote the DA, 'It is what it is.' An accurate story."
It has been public since August 2015 that Williams, who recently dropped his bid for a second term, was the subject of a FBI-IRS-federal grand jury investigation into his political and personal finances. He also took serious heat for the late reporting of more than $175,000 in gifts from 2010 to 2015.
Williams spent more than $28,000 in 2014 and nearly $19,000 in 2015 from his PAC funds at the Union League on dues, meals, and other expenses, according to campaign finance reports.
He apparently quit that practice last year, spending almost nothing from his PAC at the club, according to a 2016 campaign finance report filed Jan. 31. That report listed a $47.50 refund the PAC paid Williams for a "Union League expense."
Staff writers William Bender, Jeremy Roebuck, Chris Brennan, and David Gambacorta contributed to this article.
A quick analysis of past announcements shows SpaceX misses major milestones by about 2 years.
SpaceX is well-known for its ambitious timelines. To be fair, they're in good company on this front: many spaceflight firms, and also NASA, are similarly guilty of underestimating how long major projects will take. That's why NASA's science programsand more recently, its human spaceflight programsuse a metric called the Joint Confidence Level, or JCL, to calculate the odds something will be delivered on time based on available funding levels. In short, NASA doesn't commit to a launch date until a JCL analysis says there's a 70 percent chance it will hold.
I went through SpaceX's past press releases and official statements to see if I could quantify the average delay time for major milestones. I found that on average, SpaceX misses publicly stated deadlines by an average of 2.1 years.
Here's the dataset. Some well-known examples of these delays include the first crewed Dragon flight (originally promised in 2014, but yet to occur) and the Falcon Heavy (originally promised for 2013 or 2014, but yet to launch). Again, to be fair, an analysis of other NewSpace companies or NASA would likely turn up similar results. But that doesn't make it any less true.
The GAO thinks SpaceX may not be certified for ISS crew rotation flights until 2019.
On February 16, the Government Accountability Office released a report saying SpaceX and Boeing might not be certified to fly ISS crews until 2019.
Before NASA signs off on SpaceX for astronaut transportation, the company must conduct two demo flights of its new Crew Dragon spacecraft. The first will be an uncrewed test flight, which SpaceX expects to occur in November. The second will take place with two astronauts, and SpaceX says the mission will be ready to fly in May 2018.
The GAO is skeptical of those dates. Among the reasons: SpaceX plans to make two more upgrades to the Falcon 9 this year, before showing NASA the rocket's design is finalized and stableprior to the November uncrewed test flight. There's also an ongoing debate about the company's plan to fuel the rocket with astronauts aboard, and questions about the significance and mitigation of cracks found in Falcon 9 engine turbines.
SpaceX Preisdent Gwynne Shotwell recently told reporters at Kennedy Space Center she was confident the first crew flight would occur in 2018. If that happens in May as scheduled, NASA certification could come between July and September, followed by the first official ISS crew rotation flight.
Where, exactly, the Moon tourist mission would fit in to that schedule is unclear, considering the company has a backlog of other missions to fly after last year's launch pad explosion. In theory, SpaceX could proceed with the flight anytimeit's just a question of whether they are potentially willing to risk looking bad in the context of their NASA partnership.
Flying tourists after the first paid ISS crew rotation flight would seem to be the most prudent; NASA has been without the capability to launch its own astronauts since the space shuttle retired in 2011. The agency made a big bet on commercial crew providers after canceling the Constellation program in 2010. As of last year, NASA still provides the bulk of SpaceX's revenue, and in Monday's announcement, SpaceX went out of its way to thank the agency for shouldering most of the development cost of Crew Dragon.
NASA, meanwhile, has been forced to lay the groundwork for using Russian rockets to reach the ISS in 2019 (ironically, the seats are being purchased through Boeing) in the event SpaceX and Boeing crew flights are delayed further.
American Military University (AMU) is hosting a free webinar on the possible threats presented by drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles.
AMU says drones have become a significant threat to secure facilities, including prisons, government buildings, power plants, and even public safety officials. The webinar will examine the overall threat of UAVs and discuss recent cases where drones have threatened secure locations and public safety officials .
The hour-long webinar is scheduled for Tuesday March 14 at 1 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.
Register here.
Photo: NYPD Facebook
Someone fired a bullet through a window at a Bronx police stationhouse, New York Police Department sources told the New York Daily News.
Investigators are fairly certain the shot that hit the 52nd Precinct stationhouse came from outside the building, based on the location of the shattered glass, sources said.
It is still not clear, however, if the shot was intentionally fired at the stationhouse or if the shooter was aiming elsewhere. The mysterious bullet hole was discovered on Feb. 23.
There had not been any recent threats against officers at the precinct prior to the incident, sources said.
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Mike Pences private email account, which he regularly used in his work as governor of Indiana, was hacked last year, according to a new report published by The Indianapolis Star.
The account that was breached was frequently used by then-Gov. Pence to conduct public business which included discussing sensitive matters and homeland security issues.
More from the report:
Emails released to The Indianapolis Star in response to a public records request show Pence communicated via his personal AOL account with top advisers on topics ranging from security gates at the governors residence to the states response to terror attacks across the globe. In one email, Pences top state homeland security adviser relayed an update from the FBI regarding the arrests of several men on federal terror-related charges.
Cybersecurity experts say the emails raise concerns about whether such sensitive information was adequately protected from hackers, given that personal accounts like Pences are typically less secure than government email accounts. In fact, Pences personal account was hacked last summer.
Donald Trump and Pence spent the entirety of last years campaign cycle waging an all-out assault on Hillary Clinton for her use of a private email during her time as the Secretary of State. Lock her up was essentially the unofficial campaign slogan of the Trump campaign.
But in this scenario, one of these two personal accounts was actually hacked, and it wasnt Clintons.
As IndyStar reported, While there has been speculation about whether Clintons emails were hacked, Pences account was actually compromised last summer by a scammer who sent an email to his contacts claiming Pence and his wife were stranded in the Philippines and in urgent need of money.
In other words, all of the sensitive information reportedly transmitted via Pences private email account was put at risk. There was no evidence, on the other hand, that Clintons was breached.
The report continues:
Indiana law requires all records dealing with state business to be retained and available for public information requests. Emails exchanged on state accounts are captured on state servers, which can be searched in response to such requests. But any emails Pence sent from his AOL account to another private account likely would have been hidden from public record searches unless he took steps to make them available.
So, did Pence follow the law in his state and take steps to make all of his emails available to the public? It appears he didnt.
According to the IndyStar, There is no indication that Pence took any such steps to preserve his AOL emails up until the time he left office.
After Trump and Pence and the media spent an entire campaign complaining about the non-scandal of Hillary Clintons email use, Pence had his own email problems all along.
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In a move that will only add fuel to the Russia scandal fire, Attorney General Jeff Sessions has recused himself from all investigations related to the Trump campaign.
Sessions said during a press conference that he never had meetings with Russian operatives about the Trump campaign. Sessions also denied that he was part of any exchange of information with Russian intermediaries was false. Sessions defended leaving out his meetings with the Russians during his confirmation hearing.
Attorney General Sessions denied that he answered the question dishonestly.
Sessions announced that he had recused himself from matters under investigation relating in any way to the Trump campaign.
This was a clear effort on the part of the Attorney General to bury the scandal, and as far as the American people are concerned, it should not be good enough. Sessions claimed that he doesnt recall having any political discussions with the Russians.
Recusal is not a viable option. The only way for the American people to get the full truth is if Sessions resigns as Attorney General.
As long as Sessions stays, the scandal is only going to grow and rage on.
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It appears there are at least two requirements to serve in Donald Trumps administration, and either one would result in immediate termination if there was anything normal about Americas new and great government. Obviously one of the primary requirements is lying, often times just for the sake of lying or to make up facts to either support some kind of untoward action like taking something away from Americans or to justify imposing a religious edict. The other requirement is having a connection, likely a financial connection, to Russia; more on that in another column particularly after revelations that Sessions fulfilled the Russian connection requirement.
What makes lying to impose a religious-based edict particularly egregious in this particular instance is that the specific lie is meant to sate Republicans other need; making Americans suffer. It is true Republicans seemingly revel in making people suffer, but especially Americans who are already suffering ill-health whether it is an infirmity or debilitating injury. On Tuesday when Trumps religious attorney general and head of the Department of Justice, Sermon Sessions, stood in front of several state attorneys general to fear monger about the non-existent dangers of legal marijuana, he told so many easily disproved lies that even a Trump-era journalist was taken aback.
Sessions told the assembled states top law enforcement officers that in states where voters approved legalizing the use of recreational marijuana that voters were responsible for a horrendous spike in violence, more young people were smoking bud, and that he was sick and tired of reading and hearing about cannabis being an effective means of reducing opioid use, addiction, and deaths. Sessions even had the temerity to tell the governors that he knew all those facts were like utterances from his god because some experts told him they were true.
Being a dandy Trump-inspired liar, it was not shocking that Sermon didnt say whom all those experts were because they dont exist. However, no-one in their right mind should be surprised that Sessions pulled expert testimony out of his bag of lies and ignorance because barely a month ago he pulled another factoid out of his ass and proclaimed that the religious clauses in the 1st Amendment were not only unhistorical, he stated matter-of-factly and with great conviction that those religious clauses created by the Constitutions framers and Founding Fathers were patently unconstitutional.
What is patently false is everything Sessions said about voters legalizing marijuana for recreational use. As an aside, to go along with the pack of lies, Sessions had the temerity to tell the assembled attorneys general that if voters really wanted to change state laws decriminalizing marijuana use for recreation, then they should go the polls and vote to change the laws. Yes, he really said that as if the laws just fabricated themselves like Sessions fabricated expert testimony about the non-existent increased violence because weed is legal.
First, there has not been a spike in violence associated with legalized weed because being strictly regulated, and legally available, there is no further use for the criminal element to distribute the reefer. It was the same circumstances as after prohibition was repealed; the mafia lost their market and shifted their focus to seriously devastating hard narcotics like cocaine and heroin. Plus, the few states that have legalized marijuana have had a significant impact on drug cartels business of bringing the weed across the border to sell on the streets because there were no other distributors available. Look, even an idiot comprehends that if a user can go to the dispensary and legally buy bud; why would they even consider going to criminals who have no reason, and no more market to sell their product? One of the selling points and benefits of legalizing the weed for recreational use was specifically to eliminate the criminal element from the equation and eliminate the need for marijuana dealers.
Sessions also lied and said that since decriminalizing the weed, the states that did so have seen an alarming spike in teens using marijuana; as if 12-year olds kids are waltzing into dispensaries and buying bud. Every state that decriminalized reefer has very strict rules on who can purchase the weed including being over the age of 21 years, and then only with currently valid identification like a drivers license. As far as the experts Sessions failed to cite on this lie, since he specifically cited the state of Colorado, two years worth of statistics show that marijuana use among teens and young adults has declined by a whopping 21 percent. That is a damn sight contrary to an alarming spike in weed use by teens and young adults and easily verifiable if Sermon Sessions wasnt so busy preaching Hellfire and brimstone about the dangers of recreational, and legal, marijuana use.
As if those easily debunked lies werent bad enough, Sessions made a specific point of lying about marijuana being valuable to combat the deadly opioid scourge plaguing the nation. He said that he read about it in the 1980s and read it again just recently in the Washington Post; he said it was just not true.
There are studies after reports after statistics and even more reports proving that yes indeed, marijuana is extremely valuable and effective in fighting the opioid epidemic including addiction, traffic fatalities, and deadly overdoses just to name a few. What would have been responsible was for Sessions to cite his expert witness testimony that marijuana is not, and cannot, have an impact on reducing the myriad problems associated with a legal narcotic ten thousand times more dangerous than weed will ever be.
It is apparent that Sessions sermon about the non-existent dangers of voters decriminalizing recreational marijuana is most certainly driven by his evangelicalism, and his need to pander to the pharmaceutical industry that cannot stand the idea that a common weed is combatting their highly-profitable opioid business. His veiled threat to use the DOJ to pursue and punish states that decriminalized the weed is contrary to his and Republicans claim that states have the right to make their own laws, especially if they suppress minority votes and impose religion. What is also apparent is that there is a reason he supported Trump from the beginning; they are both liars and both fake Christians according to the Pope. Because no real Christian would fearmonger and lie to take something from Americans that is proven to relieve their suffering.
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After a particularly harsh day of constant Russia Trump bombs being dropped on Thursday, President Trump decided that we should investigate Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer, even though the Russians didnt help Democrats win/steal the 2016 election.
The Russians did in fact help Republican Donald Trump win/steal the 2016 election.
We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite! Trump whined on Twitter, whilst sharing a picture of Schumer and Putin each eating a doughnut, which is almost like stealing an election but not.
We should start an immediate investigation into @SenSchumer and his ties to Russia and Putin. A total hypocrite! pic.twitter.com/Ik3yqjHzsA Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 3, 2017
Thursday the Trump AG Jeff Sessions lying to the Senate about his contacts with Russia scandal hit the fan, which followed the Flynn fired for lying about contacts with Russia scandal. The Russia scandal drops were topped off with the news that Trumps son-in-law had actually met with the Russian Ambassador during the campaign at Trump Tower, during a Flynn meeting. The White House lied about that until they couldnt anymore.
So thats a lot of Trump insiders who have ties to Russia: Flynn, Sessions, Donald Trump Jr., Stone, Kushner, Ross, Tillerson, Page, and Manafort.
See, the problem here is its not one rogue adviser. Its all of the close advisers. And all along, Trump has first lied about the meetings and then claimed he had no knowledge even when its documented that his White House was told about the Flynn meetings. And then while lying about those meetings, they somehow neglected to mention that OH, BY THE WAY, that Russian Ambassador came to our house too and my son-in-law met with him.
The drip drip of admissions come only after the carefully planned drip drip of intelligence community drops.
Republicans, including Trump, are incorrectly blaming Democrats and Obama for pushing the Russia information, which suggests that Republicans think only Democrats care about this countrys sovereignty and national security. This is patently untrue, as many in the intelligence community and military community are not Democrats and yet are exceptionally concerned, one might say panicked at times, over the Trump Russia connections.
So to counter that, Republicans are desperately hawking the narrative that Democrats have a Russia problem. They tried to get Democrat Party Ties to Russia trending on Twitter Friday (complete with the grammar error tell, so crafty).
This narrative is of course irrelevant, because the issue isnt having contact with Russians, the issue is having contact with Russians that was and is being lied about and covered up, that took place during an election in which the Russians were known to be helping the Trump campaign win.
Clearly the Russians did not help Chuck Schumer win, they did not help Hillary Clinton, in fact they hacked the Democrats after they couldnt get into Hillary Clintons emails. (This little fact is sort of the bitter cherry on top of the Republican email hysteria, given that Governor Pence used a private email server and was hacked.)
See, its not the contact. Its the quid pro quo, its the deception, its the working with a hostile foreign aggressor to advance your own power, its the turning over all of our intel to the Russians, its the President being compromised these are the issues.
Or, as President Trump would say, Neener neener! Wah!
Update: Senator Chuck Schumers response:
Happily talk re: my contact w Mr. Putin & his associates, took place in '03 in full view of press & public under oath. Would you &your team? https://t.co/yXgw3U8tmQ Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) March 3, 2017
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As the White House finds itself embroiled in endless scandal, the news for the Republican Party keeps getting worse as a majority of voters in key 2018 states are concerned about Donald Trumps choices as president.
According to a Public Policy Polling (PPP) survey obtained by The Hill, nearly 60 percent of voters in seven 2018 battleground states said they believe the presidents Cabinet picks will hurt middle-class Americans and only help rich billionaires like Trump.
More reporting from The Hill:
Overall, 59 percent of voters in the seven states said they were somewhat or very concerned that Trumps picks would result in conflicts of interest that benefit big business at the expense of regular people, according to a poll by the left-leaning Public Policy Polling (PPP) obtained exclusively by The Hill. Thirty-eight percent said they werent concerned.
PPP polled voters in Delaware, Florida, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, Wisconsin and West Virginia for a survey commissioned by the Progressive Change Campaign Committee (PCCC), a liberal outside group.
The poll question noted that Trump has named numerous bankers and Wall Street billionaires that could result in conflicts of interest, and then questioned if participants were very concerned, somewhat concerned or not at all concerned.
This poll isnt just an early red flag for Republicans trying to gauge just how much damage Trump has done during his first month in office, but its a sign that the American people many of whom supported Trump last fall are finally seeing that his campaign was a massive con job.
Trump spent over a year trying and, in many cases, successfully convincing a large chunk of lower- and middle-class white voters that he would bring back jobs and look out for the forgotten men and women of the country, but it quickly became apparent that this was nothing but bluster.
In the first few weeks, he has appointed billionaires to key administration positions, rolled back regulations on Wall Street, and made it harder for people to purchase homes, among other things. All of these moves fly in the face of everything he said throughout the campaign.
In record time, most voters are seeing that Trump is just a con artist who cares nothing about making life better for average Americans.
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Appearing on CNNs New Day this morning, Sen. Dick Blumenthal (D-CT) repeated his demand of yesterday that Jeff Sessions must provide a credible explanation or resign. Blumenthal told Alisyn Camerota that,
He knew as a prosecutor that words matter when you testify under oath and I want to know from him why he falsely denied that he had that meeting.
Watch courtesy of CNN:
Dem @SenBlumenthal: Sessions has to resign if he can't credibly explain why he denied contact with Russian official https://t.co/0vE28XwfuF New Day (@NewDay) March 3, 2017
Alisyn Camerota: He has recused himself from any of the investigations into any Russian ties with the Trump campaign. Do you want him to resign?
Dick Blumenthal: If he fails to provide us a credible explanation? I think he has to resign. Because he had to have known when he testified before our committee that this question would arise, had to be prepared for it, and his false denial, I think, requires him to resign unless he has a credible explanation. I dont know what that explanation could possibly be.
Blumenthal wants a special prosecutor and he hopes that Republicans, who eventually supported recusal, can be brought around to demanding Sessions resignation.
Beyond what else might still lie hidden, there is more than just Sessions trustworthiness to consider here too. Blumenthal told Camerota that, Recusal means he takes himself out of the investigation but that is not entirely accurate.
Without Sessions resignation, as explained in a memo sent to PoliticusUSA by Adam Jentleson, Senior Strategic Advisor, Center for American Progress Action Fund,
No matter how you cut it, a political appointee would be in charge. Sessions recusal alone just leaves Acting Deputy Attorney General Boente supervising the investigation for now. As Acting Attorney General, he is still taking orders from the Trump White House and free under the law to direct or suppress certain activities, such as the issuing of subpoenas, by DOJ lawyers. Should Boente also have to recuse himself for any reason, the same would be the case for any political appointee who might fill in due to the recusals. Thus, only a truly independent special counsel could ensure the Trump administration cant bury or obstruct the investigation.
This is serious, because as Jentleson also points out, even recused, Sessions has the sole discretion to select and appoint a special counsel. Far from taking himself out of the equation, Sessions is still very much able to protect both himself and Donald Trump from any investigation he undertakes.
Blumenthal is right. Sessions must provide a credible explanation for his lie and the suggestion that he misunderstood the question or instead relying on Trumps claim that he could have been more accurate isnt sufficient or he must resign.
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In 2015, Floridas Supreme Court ruled that defendants in invoking the stand your ground law must prove they were, in fact, acting in self-defense. This is the standard in all stand your ground states.
In practical terms, stand your ground laws already stretch the meaning of self-defense. There doesnt need to be an actual threat just a reasonable belief that a threat could be imminent.
Take the case of Curtis Reeves. Reeves is a retired police officer currently on trial in Florida for shooting and killing 43-year-old Chad Oulson at a Florida movie theater. Oulsons wife was also injured. All this over Oulson using a cell phone during the previews and later, throwing popcorn at Reeves. Reeves is claiming self-defense under Floridas stand your ground law.
In testimony, Reeves said,
I realized I was in a life-or-death struggle. He was no longer a loudmouth. He was now a very definite threat. I would have to take decisive action if I wanted to survive this thing.
As the Miami Heralds Fred Grimm notes, Reeves burden is low.
Under the statute, it doesnt matter if Oulson had been an actual, real-life threat. Reeves only needs to convince Barthle that in his mind, Oulson was about to do him grievous bodily harm.
Yet, Republican state Senator Rob Bradley believes the law has it wrong. Under Bradleys idea of justice, Reeves shouldnt have the burden of proving he acted in self-defense. Rather, the prosecutor should have to prove why Oulson and his wife, who was also injured, didnt deserve to be shot.
Thats what a law that Bradley proposed amounts to.
He offered the convenient rational that this is about preserving the principle that that state has the burden of proof in criminal law from the beginning of the case to the end.
Critics argue this law would require the state to convict the defendant twice and in reality, the burden is shifted to the victims family not the state.
Jordan Davis mother, Lucy McBath, made this very point.
Having lived through this grueling experience first-hand with two trials for my sons murder, I can attest to the anguish and the pain that this process elicits. We should not make it harder for family members to achieve the justice that they deserve.
Under the current law, Floridians are encouraged to shoot first, ask questions later. Thats likely to increase if Bradleys law is passed.
As it stands, the existing law is applied inconsistently when you consider that a white man making a popcorn defense can result in acquittal but a black woman firing a warning shot can result in jail time. Take the case of Marissa Alexander, who was sentenced to 20 years in jail for firing a warning shot at her husband, Rico Gray.
Alexander and Gray were arguing over some text messages. After Alexander locked herself in a bathroom, Gray broke through the door and grabbed her next. Alexander ran to the garage, but couldnt open the door and returned with a gun she grabbed from a car. Per MSNBC, Gray threatened B**ch, Ill kill you. While no one was injured or killed, it took a Florida jury just 12 minutes to convict Alexander. After six years of legal wrangling, she was released as a result of a plea agreement.
Alexander supports the law saying: I feel like you go into that kind of situation until proven innocent.
One can sympathize with Alexander considering she actually was assaulted and threatened before she fired a warning shot.
But there is something desperately wrong when throwing popcorn is seen as a reasonable threat to a persons life, but an uttered death threat is not.
That wont be fixed with a law that shifts the burden from proving one acting in self-defense to proving one didnt deserve to be shot.
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Trump visited a private school in Orlando, FL on Friday where his message to students was that they should make lots of money and not sacrifice anything to help other people by going into politics. This is why Trump is not a role model for children.
Video:
According to the White House pool report provided to PoliticusUSA:
Two of the students, Janayah Chatelier and Landon Fritz, both 10 years old, welcomed him to the class. When POTUS asked what they were studying, Landon said: Today we are learning about Florida. Each told Mr. POTUS where they wanted to go to college: for Landon, Boston University; for Janayah, Johns Hopkins University.
Want to be a doctor, is that why Johns Hopkins? POTUS asked. He spoke briefly to another student who said she hoped to open her own business. Thats a good idea. Make a lot of money right? But dont run for politics after, POTUS said.
Even if Trump was joking, the President Of The United States should not be sending a message to children that they should aspire to selfishness and never do anything that might require them to sacrifice.
There are scores of reasons why Donald Trump should never be considered a role model for kids, but his me first view of the world something that can be damaging to future generations. It would be fine for Trump to joke about what a burden politics is, running for office was something that Trump chose to do, around adults, but that kind of humor sends the wrong message to kids.
As president, Trump is sending the wrong message to children and is not behaving like a leader to be proud of.
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During a gaggle aboard Air Force One with White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Sarah Sanders, en route to Orlando, Sanders was asked why the Trump administration is just now revealing the meeting with Russian Ambassador Kislyak that took place at Trump Tower.
Why is the administration just now telling about the meeting with Kislyak at Trump Towerseems a little late given all this stuff about whether Flynn had conversations with him, Sanders was asked according to a White House pool report sent to PoliticusUSA.
Look I think this again was a courtesy meeting, they were part of over a hundred different meetings during the transition. This wasnt a secret it was just, Sanders tried to explain.
Frankly I didnt know about it and so I dont think anybody saw it as a big deal, there was no policy discussion. It was an introductory courtesy meeting which we did literally hundreds over the course of the transition, Sanders said, as if the Russians had not been busted for helping President Trump win the election.
How many other ambassadors? the press tried to clarify.
I would have to get a specific number, but there were dozens of other ambassadors, Sanders replied. Were those ambassadors also smuggled in a back door? Well have to wait for the intelligence community to drop more details on Kislyaks visit to Trump Tower, as they did on AG Jeff Sessions private meeting in his Senate office with Kislyak, because we will not be getting accurate information from the Trump White House unless its forced.
Asked if the Russian ambassador used a different entrance to get into Trump tower, given that the pool staked out at Trump Tower didnt see him, Sanders told the pool she was not sure and would check.
Not sure?
The Trump White House kept the December meeting at Trump Tower a secret. At the time, the press was staked out in the lobby covering what was functioning as one of two transition headquarters, and so every visit was public.
Yet the Russian Ambassadors visit, a man known by U.S. intelligence officers as one of Russias top spies and recruiter of spies, was somehow kept hidden. Thus the press concluded yesterday that team Trump must have sneaked him in via a hidden entrance (insert inevitable sneaked versus snuck debate here).
Kislyak wasn't caught on CSPAN camera for Trump Tower meeting w/Kushner and Flynn in December, so was deliberately brought in the back way Edward-Isaac Dovere (@IsaacDovere) March 2, 2017
The Trump White House expects the press to buy the notion that all of these close advisers contacts and ties to Russia are simply a coincidence, even though Russia interfered in the U.S. election to help Trump win and the contacts took place around the time Trump won the Republican primary and continued on, taking a heated tone the day President Obama announced his sanctions on Russia as punishment for their interference with our elections.
They also want the public to buy that they lied about all of these meetings and denied them and covered them up simply because they forgot.
On the one hand, they complain about the investigations into their ties to Russia and on the other hand, they ask the public to believe that even with all of these investigations, they just forgot about that time the Russian spy came to Trump Tower through the back entrance.
For a group who convicted Hillary Clinton sans evidence, the Trump White House are awfully skilled at pretending actual evidence doesnt exist.
Not sure. The Trump White House is just not sure why cameras didnt capture the top Russian spy going into the previously undisclosed secret meeting at Trump Tower with Michael Flynn, who resigned due to his secret contacts with Russia (it didnt occur to the White House to mention this meeting then?), and Trumps son-in-law and close personal adviser Jared Kushner.
Meanwhile, Vice President Pence ignored shouted questions from poolers Friday, including, according to the report sent to PoliticusUSA, When did you find out Mr. Sessions talked to the Russians?
Donald Trumps secrets are being slowly and ever so painfully leaked to the media. So the conflict between what they deny and then what comes out is becoming a regular pattern. Trump White House denies something; intel is dropped proving its a lie. Trump White House moves the goal posts, Trump throws public fit on Twitter; intel is dropped again.
This is how things work when one of the two major political parties spits in patriotisms face to cover for its president. And who knows who else.
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If you put lipstick on a pig, it remains a pig. Similarly, hate speech remains hate speech even when read from a teleprompter and spewed with a smile. Surrounding hate speech with images of patriotism and lip service to acceptance of people who look and pray differently than the majority doesnt change the fact that it is hate speech. We saw that first-hand the other night, as Donald Trump delivered his Joint Session of Congress speech.
During the period since Trump took the oath of office, he has made it abundantly clear that he is not Americas president and he doesnt want to be. Trump is and will continue to be his bases president and only his bases president. Consider just a few of the events since Trump took the oath on January 20th.
He indulged in Holocaust denial on Holocaust Memorial Day. Not only did he omit any mention of Jews in his own statement, Trump nixed the State Departments statement that reportedly did mention Jews in favor of one that did not.
He never did condemn a Trump fans hate crime against Muslims in Canada. Trump remains silent about the dramatic surge of hate crimes since he took the oath of office.
As noted by Teen Vogue
The rise in hate crimes in New York City correlates with a national increase since the election. And in addition to the uptick in crimes against Jews, there has also been a significant rising in crimes against Muslims. Researchers at The Southern Poverty Law Center attributed this rise to the rhetoric that has emerged from Trumps campaign, as well as his presidency.
Until the other night, he was silent after a white man in Kansas shouted get out of my country before gunning down 3 people.
He gives VOICE to one set of victims of horrific crimes while condoning with his silence and inaction, horrific crimes against other victims.
Conversely, after Trump decided to pay some lip service to the condemnation of hatred during his performance; he introduced Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement or VOICE.
I have ordered the Department of Homeland Security to create an office to serve American Victims. The office is called VOICE - Victims Of Immigration Crime Engagement. We are providing a voice to those who have been ignored by our media and silenced by special interests.
The real purpose of VOICE is to distort the facts by taking isolated incidents and raising them to levels to suggest that criminal behavior is a general trend among immigrants.
Its also straight out of the Nazi handbook as explained by Andrea Pitzer
.
And we see back in Nazi Germany there was a paper calleda Nazi paper called Der Sturmer, and they had a department called Letter Box, and readers were invited to send in stories of supposed Jewish crimes. And Der Sturmer would publish them, and they would include some pretty horrific graphic illustrations of these crimes, as well. And there was even a sort of a lite version of it, if you will, racism lite, in which the Neues Volk, which was more like a Look or a Life magazine, which normally highlighted beautiful Aryan families and their beautiful homes, would run a feature like The Criminal Jew, and they would show photos of Jewish-looking, as they called it, people who represented different kinds of crimes that one ought to watch out for from Jews.
VOICE is nothing more than a contemporary version of Der Sturmers Letter Box with the intended target group being anyone who wasnt born in America. Trump hopes or anticipates that VOICE will suffice as an alternative to studies conducted by his own DHS and the CATO institute which contradict the general premise that immigrants are bad people and bad for America.
DHS Intelligence destroyed Trumps justification to ban people from seven predominantly Muslim countries by concluding that nationality is not an indicator of criminality.
The right wing CATO Institute points to two types of studies on immigration and crime. The first type analyzes survey data collected by the Census and American Community Survey, which concludes that immigrants are less crime prone than the native-born population.
The second type is a macro level analysis which examines the impact of immigration on the crime rate. Under this method, analysts concluded that immigration does not increase crime. It might even result in a decline in crime rates.
With VOICE, Trump can take isolated incidents and make it appear like they illustrate a trend. He can cite VOICE as data to justify his Muslim ban. He can go on with the con that ICE is only rounding up the violent criminals when the fact is ICE is also deporting victims of domestic abuse, and restaurant owners.
Donald Trumps performance was a repeat performance of Trump spewing hate. The only difference is this time he did it with a teleprompter and a smile.
The Nexx Level Sports Center, planned to be built in Irmo, would host major sports tournaments weekly, and is projected to bring $51 million in spending to the area in the first five years, if developers can line up the financial support needed to build it. Read moreProposed Columbia area sports complex seeking financial commitments from county, state
The oft-told story of a frog perishing in a pot as the water slowly warms and then cooks him is not actually based in fact; the metaphor persists because it describes something that is true: We are less aware of change that occurs gradually than when it happens all at once. Read moreEditorial: Referendums based on slow evolution: Berkeley, Dorchester aren't so rural anymore
President Donald Trump walks across the tarmac at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Va., Thursday, March 2, 2017 after arriving on Air Force One for his first visit to the Hampton Roads area since taking office in January. The purpose of his visit was to deliver a speech in the hangar bay of the aircraft carrier Ford at Newport News Shipbuilding. (Bill Tiernan/The Virginian-Pilot via AP)
South Carolina voters head to the polls Nov. 8, casting ballots in midterm elections that will not only determine the state's next governor but will also act as the first major referendum on the Biden era. Read moreYour voter guide to top races, key issues in South Carolina's 2022 midterm elections
CHICAGO Federal law enforcement officials raided three central Illinois facilities of manufacturer Caterpillar on Thursday as part of an investigation the company said may be related to business with its Swiss subsidiary CSARL.
Officials from three federal agencies, some wearing jackets that said "police, federal agent", searched the Peoria, Illinois, headquarters of Caterpillar, one of the world's largest makers of construction and other heavy equipment. Facilities in East Peoria and Morton, Illinois, also were raided under a federal warrant, U.S. Attorney's office spokeswoman Sharon Paul said.
"We believe the execution of this search warrant is regarding, among other things, export filings that relate to the CSARL matter," Caterpillar said in a statement later on Thursday, referring to its Swiss subsidiary.
Caterpillar spokeswoman Corrie Heck Scott said in an email that the company was cooperating with law enforcement.
Paul said the agencies involved included the Internal Revenue Service's criminal investigation unit, the U.S. Department of Commerce Office of Export Enforcement and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.'s office of inspector general. She declined to comment further on the details of the investigation.
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The exact reason for the raid was unclear, but Caterpillar told the Securities and Exchange Commission in a filing last month that the IRS had notified the company it owed $2 billion more in taxes for the years 2010 to 2012 because of profits from its Swiss unit. Caterpillar said it would "vigorously contest" the tax bill.
"We believe that the relevant transactions complied with applicable tax laws and did not violate judicial doctrines," Caterpillar said.
Two years ago the SEC notified Caterpillar that it was conducting an "informal investigation" relating to CSARL and asked the company to preserve relevant documents.
SEC spokesmen in Washington declined to comment Thursday.
A 2014 report by U.S. Senate Democratic staff said that Caterpillar had avoided paying $2.4 billion in U.S. taxes since 2000 by shifting profits to the affiliate in Switzerland.
The report said Caterpillar paid PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP $55 million to develop the tax strategy. Under the strategy, Caterpillar transferred the rights to profits from its parts business to a wholly controlled Swiss affiliate called CSARL, even though no employees or business activities were moved to Switzerland, the report said.
In exchange, CSARL paid a small royalty, and the income was taxed at a special rate of 4 percent to 6 percent that Caterpillar negotiated with the Swiss government, the report said.
PUNTA GORDA, Fla. The Florida police officer who shot and killed an Austin native has been charged with manslaughter with a firearm, court documents show.
Lee Michael Coel, 28, was arrested Feb. 22 by a member of the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office and charged with the felony in the 20th Judicial Circuit. He was released from custody in lieu of $5,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned April 10.
His boss, Punta Gorda Police Chief Thomas Lewis, was charged with a misdemeanor count of second-degree culpable negligence. His attorney has already entered a plea of not guilty and a request for a jury trial; Lewis's arraignment is set for April 5.
The charges come on the heels of an investigation into the death of Mary Knowlton, 73, who was participating in a "shoot-don't-shoot" scenario Aug. 9 in the southwest Florida city.
During such an exercise, the citizen assumes the role of the officer and is confronted with situations in which they must make a decision about whether to use force on the role player, a Punta Gorda Police Department spokeswoman said.
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The situations escalate quickly, forcing fast decisions. It's designed to foster a better understanding for what officers face during an intense situation and leads to informative dialogue between the community and officers who act as role players, she said.
Both the citizen and the officer have a firearm during these scenarios.
But the guns either are supposed to be loaded with blanks or are "simunition guns," which are real-looking weapons that fire a nonlethal projectile with reduced force.
Knowlton was mistakenly struck with a live round allegedly fired by Coel, officials said, and died at a nearby hospital.
She'd attended the class with her husband of 55 years, Gary Knowlton, in what was planned as a fun night out to show their support for law enforcement, family members said in the days following the shooting.
Lewis, 43, was at the class that night; the charging document accuses him of "unlawfully exposing Knowlton to personal injury, by failing to implement and utilize sufficient safety protocols."
Coel has been on administrative leave since the incident, which was investigated by the Florida state attorney's office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
"This has been a very labor intensive process and has involved a lot of investigative work," said Stephen Russell, state attorney for the 20th Judicial Circuit.
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Coel could face up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine, Russell said. The chief could receive up to 60 days in jail.
Howard Kunik, Punta Gorda's city manager, said Lewis has been placed on paid administrative leave pending further review. He said once he had all the information, the city would do its own internal investigation to determine whether the chief will remain employed.
In October, the city reached a settlement with Gary Knowlton in the amount of $2.06 million. In the settlement, the city admits no liability for Knowlton's death and it is exempted from further action by her family.
Knowlton graduated from Austin High School, then attended St. Olaf College, the University of Minnesota and Minnesota State University, Mankato. She and her husband lived in Prior Lake from 1973 until retiring to the Florida gulf coast town.
Knowlton worked for the Scott County Library System until 1988 at the Prior Lake Library. She served on the library board from 1993 to 2001, said current Library Director Jake Grussing.
She also was the librarian at Parkview Elementary School in Rosemount from 1988 to 2004 and was a substitute librarian at other schools in the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan district through 2013.
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ST. PAUL A Lewiston dentist traveled to the Capitol on Thursday with a grim message unless lawmakers take action to boost the state's Medicaid reimbursement rates, more and more Minnesotans will go without care.
Dr. Michael Flynn worries that when he retires there will be no one to care for the region's low-income patients.
"I'm going to be 64 in two weeks. Unless there is a change, there will not be a replacement for Dr. Flynn in Lewiston. Under the current system, it is unsustainable," he said.
Flynn joined several other dentists at a Capitol press conference to speak in support of a bill sponsored by Rep. Nels Pierson, R-Rochester, that would increase the state's Medicaid reimbursement rates. Minnesota has the lowest reimbursement rates for pediatric dental services in the nation.
Pierson's proposal would invest up to an additional $120 million into Medicaid reimbursement rates for dental care in the next two-year budget. The Rochester lawmaker told reporters the state's low rates are a "stain on Minnesota's great history" and it is time to fix it.
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"These low payment rates have a real impact on the ability of dentists to provide care for low-income Minnesotans, and this issue is particularly acute in greater Minnesota. We can do better, and I am hopeful this year we will make significant progress on the issue," Pierson said.
A similar bill is being sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Julie Rosen, R-Vernon Center.
In Minnesota, the reimbursement rate for Medicaid patients is 27 percent of what patients who aren't on public assistance pay. That compares to reimbursement rates of 32 percent in Wisconsin, 42 percent in Iowa and 63 percent in North Dakota.
Gov. Mark Dayton's budget proposal would increase reimbursement rates by 54 percent. By comparison, Pierson's bill would boost the rates by 100 percent. Flynn said he appreciates the governor's proposal but it doesn't go far enough. He said he is having trouble finding dental assistants to work in his office. Many of them are going to nearby La Crosse, Wis. instead.
"My business as a dentist in Lewiston is at a crisis point, and it's time for Minnesota to assist rural practices," Flynn said.
When patients don't have access to a dentist, they often end up in the emergency room for care. That is a costly alternative that often fails to get to the root of the problem, according to Dr. Michael Helgeson, CEO of Apple Tree Dental . The clinic has six offices in the state, including Rochester. He shared the story of a 90-plus-year-old woman with dementia who had been unable to see a dentist. She showed up several times at Mayo Clinic for an untreated infection that doctors had trouble diagnosing. Once the woman got her teeth checked, it was discovered she had 11 abscess root tips in her mouth.
"Can you imagine? You can't communicate. You've got these infections. You are in and out of the hospital. That's just not right in Minnesota. Vulnerable children, vulnerable adults people should not have festering infections in their mouths," Helgeson said.
Neither Pierson's nor Rosen's bills have received a committee hearing yet. The state is projected to have a $1.65 billion budget surplus. But there is expected to be plenty of competition for those dollars as lawmakers consider a long list of tax cuts and spending request.
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To help the proposal's chances, the Minnesota Dental Association is preparing to launch an ad campaign soon called "Help Minnesota Smile." The slogan? "It's hard to smile when you're in last place."
The association's president, Dr. Kevin Dens, said it is has taken 30 years for Minnesota to drop to the bottom of states when it comes to reimbursement rates. The proposed $120 million investment would at least move Minnesota to the middle of the pack.
He added, "Right now, Minnesota should be too embarrassed to smile. Ranking last in the nation is not the way we do things in Minnesota."
ST. PAUL The Republican-controlled Minnesota House has passed a proposal that would block local minimum wage measures and the paid sick leave ordinances set to go into effect this summer in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The vote followed a demonstration and sharp words between lawmakers over local control, and workers' rights versus business needs.
The so-called pre-emption measure would bar cities from setting their own labor regulations. That's been a hot-button issue, particularly in Minneapolis, where advocates have been pushing the city to set a new $15-an-hour minimum wage, higher than the state's standard.
After hours of debate, the measure passed 76-53 on a mostly party-line vote. DFL Reps. Gene Pelowski, of Winona, and Jeanne Poppe, of Austin, joined Republicans in voting for the bill.
Next, a similar measure is set to be considered in the state Senate.
Rep. Nels Pierson, R-Rochester, said the bill would help ensure Minnesota remains a competitive place for business.
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"The negative impacts of what it does for commerce in the state of Minnesota to have the inconsistencies going from city to city is really something that would make it an obstacle to do business in the state of Minnesota," Pierson said.
But Rep. Duane Sauke, DFL-Rochester, argues that these issues should be left up to local governments and it is not the state's place to interfere.
"For me, the core is that this (bill) steps in front of a basic concept of local decision making," Sauke said.
Bill author Rep. Pat Garofalo, a Republican from Farmington, said he expected a veto by Gov. Mark Dayton of the bill as is, but that he hoped a compromise with the Senate could add better wage enforcement or other measures that would make statewide labor standards palatable for both Democratic legislators and Dayton.
"We want to catch those bad guys, and make sure that the businesses playing by the rules don't get punished," Garofalo said. "We also want to have a thoughtful conversation about what it is people are trying to accomplish here with these ordinances."
Republican Rep. Jim Nash of Waconia said city-by-city variation in labor law threatened the very jobs that worker advocates were trying to improve.
"I have a friend that owns restaurants in multiple places and they have employees that go back and forth. The back office paperwork is a nightmare," Nash said.
Opponents of the bill said efforts to improve working conditions, like requiring paid sick leave, improves the lives of working people, even if it's done in a piecemeal, city-by-city way.
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"Advocates for this bill keep saying that it'll create a patchwork quilt of different regulations all over the state," said Rod Adams of Neighborhoods Organizing for Change. "But as we know, the lives of workers of color are just a patchwork quilt, working two to three jobs to just patch together income, to just make ends meet."
Democrats on the House floor were particularly critical of the part of the bill that makes it retroactive to January 2016, before Minneapolis and St. Paul approved the sick time ordinances for all employees in the two cities. The mandates are due to go into effect in July.
Rep. Erin Maye Quade said pre-emption would affect thousands of Minnesotans, most of whom are people of color.
"We can't keep talking about racial disparities, act like we're confused about why it happens, do this, and then come back later, and say we should really do something," the Apple Valley Democrat said.
But Republicans insisted it wasn't fair for the two cities to set the standard for every other community. Rep. Dave Baker owns a hotel and restaurant in Willmar.
"We can't just allow certain cities, our two largest cities in the state, to do what they think is right for their communities, because it so much affects our communities as well," Baker said.
DFLers also offered a range of amendments to the bill, such as requiring statewide sick leave, a 21-day notice for hourly work schedules, and better protection for worker's pay. They even offered a tongue-in-cheek idea to abolish city governments and turn all authority over to the state. But no action was taken on the amendments.
ST. PAUL Minnesota lawmakers are considering legislation that could spell the end for snow days.
In an attempt to curb the amount of days tacked onto the end of the school year, a House committee heard legislation that would let schools substitute snow days for home learning, or e-learning, days. Families would be notified at least two hours before school starts and students would begin their online coursework at the beginning of the school day.
In southeastern Minnesota, the Zumbrota-Mazeppa school district has what they call WILD, or Weather Induced Learning Days. Republican Rep. Steve Drazkowski, the author of the bill, lives in Mazeppa and brought in the area's high school principal, David Anderson, to talk about the program.
Started in late 2015, Anderson said WILD helps kids keep up with their school work in the face of unexpected cancellations.
"The ability for kids to continue to do coursework provided by their teachers was very well received, not only by our teachers but by our parents as well," he said.
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The program works in the rural district because all students have access to laptops they can bring home. Students who don't have internet access at home can submit their assignments on paper or online after returning to school.
Democratic Rep. Mary Kunesh-Podein, an educator herself, praised the program and said it is a great way to keep students on track. The New Brighton lawmaker raised the idea of providing internet "hot spots" for students who don't have web access at home.
Kids aren't the only ones losing out on a day off though, as teachers have to stay near their computers and monitor their students' participation in the day's activities and answer questions.
Angela Heitmann, a Zumbrota-Mazeppa teacher, said the online assignments are often supplementary to class work, because something like a biology lab can't be brought home. The types of assignments vary, she said, depending on the students' age and subject level.
Snow days are safe for now, as the committee didn't vote on the bill, but laid it aside for possible inclusion in a larger education bill.
TRUMAN, Minn. Kirsten and Ron Bressler decided they'd be the ones to tell their 8-year-old son he would never walk again.
They recalled how overwhelmed they were by the stream of doctors who filed into a waiting room. The stray arrow that struck their youngest child in the chest had shattered part of his spine and he would be paralyzed from the chest down, the doctors told them.
It would have been easier on Kirsten and Ron to let the doctors also break the news to Curtis, but they didn't want him to feel as overwhelmed as they did.
So when the moment felt right late one November night, Kirsten told Curtis.
"I told him he'll still be able to do everything he did before. He'll just do it in a different way in a wheelchair," Kirsten recalled.
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Three months later that wheelchair is folded up in a corner of their house in Truman.
Somehow, despite a diagnosis of a severed spinal cord, Curtis is well on his way to a full recovery after being accidentally shot by an archery arrow. The second-grader is not only walking again, he's jumping and climbing stairs.
"Sometimes we don't have explanations from a medical standpoint," said Mayo Clinic pediatric surgeon Denise Klinkner in a video about Curtis. "But with this kind of outcome, I'm OK not having an explanation."
The arrow that lodged into Curtis' spine was shot accidentally by one of his older siblings Nov. 3.
Kirsten was at work not far away when she got the call that there had been an accident. She rushed home and found Curtis unable to move but conscious.
As first responders provided first aid, she remembers Curtis was surprisingly calm as she repeatedly told him he was "in good hands."
Curtis was flown by helicopter to Mayo Clinic in Rochester. His family had to drive to the hospital while not knowing whether their son and brother was still alive.
Relief he had survived dimmed the grief over the paralysis prognosis.
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"I thought 'It's fine. It will be OK. At least he's still alive,'" Kirsten said.
As Curtis began to regain feeling and then movement, his parents started to cautiously hope for a miracle. Too young to understand what a severed spinal cord meant, Curtis meanwhile was confident he'd prove the doctors wrong.
In late November he shocked his parents and medical professionals by taking several steps as he returned from physical therapy.
"I heard him giggling (in the hallway) and then he walked in. I couldn't believe it," his mother said.
Just a few weeks later he was back home and in his second-grade classroom at Truman Public School.
Curtis uses a walker sometimes, but increasingly less and less. At physical therapy sessions in Mankato three times a week, he's meeting challenges including jumping and walking on a balance beam.
It's still unknown if Curtis will have any permanent mobility limitations, his mother said.
Mayo Clinic produced a video about Curtis' accident and his unexplainable recovery. It's been viewed over 14,000 times on YouTube since it was posted last month.
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People Magazine got wind of the story and a reporter interviewed Kirsten for a not yet published article.
It was also seen by someone from "The Doctors," a CBS daytime health talk show. Producers invited Curtis and Kirsten to Hollywood, all expenses paid, to appear on the show.
"Looking at that picture and the trajectory of that arrow, I see that and I think, 'There's no way he survived that,'" said Dr. Travis Stork, the show's star, in the episode that aired Feb. 3.
Despite getting a standing ovation as he walked out onto the stage, Curtis said he didn't enjoy being in the limelight. He rather would've spent the entire getaway swimming in the hotel pool, he said.
Curtis and his family have another getaway to look forward to this summer. The show gifted them with a trip to the Legoland Florida Resort.
While his ordeal has piqued an interest in biology and medicine, Curtis said he still wants to be a farmer when he grows up. He wants to raise animals and crops, just like his parents.
The family is grateful for the support they've received from the Truman community, Kirsten said.
There were many gestures that made a big impact, she said, such as when Curtis' teacher came to Rochester to deliver assignments and do their planned parent-teacher conference.
Multiple community fundraisers helped the family purchase a new bed and a wheelchair and will help pay the medical bills once they start to arrive.
Kirsten said she and her husband are choosing to focus on their son's recovery and not worry about the still unknown cost of Curtis' accident.
The unneeded rental wheelchair will soon be returned. It was too late to cancel their order for a customized wheelchair that hasn't yet arrived. Kirsten said they plan to donate it to the pediatric rehabilitation unit at Mayo Clinic in Rochester.
Rep. Cedric Richmond of Louisianas Second District is no Cedric the Entertainer, but hes trying. He was trying to be funny when he disparaged Kellyanne Conway with a vile sexual innuendo at the Washington Press Club Foundation Wednesday night (video below).
Looking around online for a video to verify the quote, I found New Orleans Times-Picayune columnist Jarvis DeBerrys decent assessment of Richmonds remark in Cedric Richmond owes Kellyanne Conway a real apology. DeBerrys call for a real apology is to be distinguished from the fake apology served up by Rep. Richmond. Rep. Richmond owes Ms. Conway a genuine apology.
Has CNN gotten around to covering this interesting sign of the times? Have CNN anchors come to Kellyannes defense or called out Rep. Richmond? Check here.
UPDATE: Kellyanne comments here.
The Democrats allegations against Jeff Sessions, one of the most upright men in Washington, are ludicrous. I dont understand how anyone can think they amount to anything. But if the Democrats want to talk about collusion with the Russians, by all means lets have that conversation.
Chris Adams takes us on a walk down memory lane. In 1983, Ted Kennedythe liberal lion of the Senatetried to enlist the Soviet Union, our most bitter enemy, in the Democrats effort to defeat President Ronald Reagans re-election.
Yes, a United States senator really did collude with the Russians to influence the outcome of a presidential election. His name was Ted Kennedy. While Sen. Al Franken (D-Ringling Bros.) and other Democrats have the vapors over a truthful, complete, and correct answer Attorney General Jeff Sessions gave in his confirmation hearing, its worth remembering the reprehensible behavior of Senator Ted Kennedy in 198[3].
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To recap, from Forbes: Picking his way through the Soviet archives that Boris Yeltsin had just thrown open, in 1991 Tim Sebastian, a reporter for the London Times, came across an arresting memorandum. Composed in 1983 by Victor Chebrikov, the top man at the KGB, the memorandum was addressed to Yuri Andropov, the top man in the entire USSR. The subject: Sen. Edward Kennedy. Kennedys message was simple. He proposed an unabashed quid pro quo. Kennedy would lend Andropov a hand in dealing with President Reagan. In return, the Soviet leader would lend the Democratic Party a hand in challenging Reagan in the 1984 presidential election. The only real potential threats to Reagan are problems of war and peace and Soviet-American relations, the memorandum stated. These issues, according to the senator, will without a doubt become the most important of the election campaign. Kennedy made Andropov a couple of specific offers. Among the promises Kennedy made the Soviets was he that would ensure that the television networks gave the Soviet leader primetime slots to speak directly to the American people, thus undermining Reagans framing of the sinister nature of the USSR. Even then, the Democrats had the power to collude with the legacy media. Kennedy also promised to help Andropov penetrate the American message with his Soviet agitprop. Thats right, folks. Even 30 years ago, Democrat senators were colluding with Americas enemies to bring down Republicans.
Selling out America to benefit the Democratic Party? It happens. Sometimes, Democrats sell out America just because they think it is the right thing to do. If someone is going to investigate the executive branchs relationship with Russia, he should start with Barack Obamas pledge to Russian President Dmitri Medvedev that he would sell out the United States in his second term.
You think that is too strong? What do you think Obama meant when he said he would have more flexibility after the election? That he would have more latitude to advance American interests by opposing Russian actions in, say, Crimea and Ukraine? No, I dont think that is what he meant, either.
I have thought for quite a while that the Democratic Party is shameless, but the Democrats have taken shamelessness to a whole new level.
U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara announced that eight young men were indicted for mail theft and bank fraud conspiracies in the Bronx. In a nutshell, the group is accused of removing mail from corner mailboxes in order to find checks and mail orders. Bharara said they "allegedly hatched a scheme to steal mail from Bronx residents, specifically targeting mail they thought would contain checks or money orders, then depositing stolen funds into their own and others accounts. Now, thanks to the work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service [USPIS], these alleged mail fraudsters have been delivered to the criminal justice system." Very clever, Preet.
Because of a series of mail theft incidents, the U.S. Postal Service has been installing "retrofitted" mailboxes to prevent mail "fishing" in the Bronx and upper Manhattan.
The U.S. Attorney's office explained the enterprise, which took place between March 2015 and January 2017:
Since 2015, USPIS and other local and federal agencies, including the New York City Police Department (NYPD), Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, have been investigating mail theft from mailboxes in the Bronx, New York. The investigation has revealed that individuals steal mail by either illicitly obtaining mail box keys or by fishing. Fishing involves inserting homemade mail theft devices into mailboxes located on street corners or other publicly accessible places. After gaining access to the mail in the mailbox, a thief typically will remove any mail that appears to contain checks or money orders. During the beginning and end of the month when many people mail checks for rent and bills, a thief can steal checks worth tens of thousands of dollars in a single night.
After perpetrators fish checks and money orders out of mailboxes, they sell the checks and money orders to others, remove the payees names by washing the checks and money orders, or simply deposit the checks and money orders into a bank account. In various iterations of the scheme, those bank accounts have belonged to the mail thieves, to complicit accountholders, or to unsuspecting third parties whose debits cards or personal identifying information has been stolen.
U.S.P.I.S. Inspector-in-Charge Philip Bartlett added, "When I think of the brazenness of these individuals to allegedly steal U.S. Mail coupled with their total disregard for the financial well-being of the communities impacted by their crimes, it takes the word insolent to new heights."
Brian Marte, a/k/a Trini Rabiia, 20; Erickson Batista, a/k/a Niike Batista, 24; Junior Taveras, a/k/a Tuh Relambio, 19; Angel Aristy, a/k/a Frekiitho Lindo Colon, 18; Luis Rosado, a/k/a El Menolsito Tejada, 19; Eoscaterys Polnaco, 23; Brayan Rodriguez, a/k/a New Black El Paisano, 23; and Ronardo Baez, a/k/a Tuchokoo Baez, 19, were named in the indictment. Five have been arrested, two are at large and one will turn himself in at the end of the week.
The feds say, "Each of the defendants is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to commit mail theft, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in prison. Marte is also charged with one count of mail theft, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison."
As for the new mailboxes to prevent fraud, a U.S.P.I.S. spokeswoman told DNAinfo they are similar to the old ones but "the retrofitted postal boxes 'don't have a snorkel to pull down."
There has been a spate of bomb threats against Jewish institutions lately, some of them coordinated. Naturally, the Democrats are peddling the claim that the perpetrators are Trump supporters. I dont believe the authorities have yet gotten to the bottom of the coordinated ones, but the first person to be arrested for a series of anti-Semitic bomb threats is a left-wing African-American journalist apparently motivated by spite against a former girlfriend.
For the eight years of the Obama administration, George W. Bush commendably kept quiet. Now that we have a Republican president, however, he cant seem to shut up. He is finding new favor with the left, mostly because he cant give an interview without being drawn into explicit or implicit criticism of President Trump. This is my advice to you, W: You had it right the first time. You think you owed Barack Obama your silence? If you dont have anything positive to say, you owe it to Donald Trump, too. You let the press destroy you without ever fighting back. Now that we have a fighter in the White House, get off the bad guys team.
I dont ever watch television news, but I would have assumed it is as biased against our president as the print and internet media. Confirmation comes from Rich Noyes and Mike Ciandella at Newsbusters.
In the first 30 days (January 20 to February 18), our analysts determined that the President and his team were the subject of 16 hours of coverage on just the Big Three evening newscasts. This equates to more than half (54%) of all of the news coverage during this period. While most new presidents enjoy a media honeymoon, the tone of Trumps coverage was nearly as hostile (88% negative) as we found during last years presidential campaign (91% negative).
This chart shows the proportion of negative to positive stories on ABC, CBS and NBC:
It is remarkable that President Trumps approval ratings are as high as they are, given the incessant campaign of vilification by the Democratic Party press.
Finally, I care little about Joe Biden and nothing at all about his son Hunter. However, Hunter has long been a public figure. He served in Bill Clintons Department of Commerce, was on Amtraks board of directors, and was a co-chairman of the 2008 Obama-Biden Inaugural Committee. He became the subject of controversy as a member of the board of directors of Burisma Holdings, the largest non-governmental gas producer in Ukraine, a post for which he had no apparent qualifications other than being the vice-presidents son.
So it is not unfair to note that Hunter Biden is embroiled in one of the years juiciest scandals. He dumped his wife for the widow of his older brother, Beau. His wife now says, in their divorce proceeding:
His spending rarely relates to legitimate family expenses, but focuses on his own travel (at times multiple hotel rooms on the same night), gifts for other women, alcohol, strip clubs, or other personal indulgences.
***
Throughout the parties separation Mr. Biden has created financial concerns for the family by spending extravagantly on his own interests (including drugs, alcohol, prostitutes, strip clubs, and gifts for women with whom he has sexual relations), while leaving the family with no funds to pay legitimate bills.
Joe Biden takes a benign view of his sons wife-switch:
He told us in an exclusive statement, We are all lucky that Hunter and Hallie found each other as they were putting their lives together again after such sadness. They have mine and Jills full and complete support and we are happy for them.
My only observation is that if Joe Biden had been a Republican vice presidentDick Cheney, saythis would be a scandal for the ages.
Taking the view from Sunset Boulevard, Ammo Grrrll has visions of CRAZY CHRISTIANS. She writes:
Turn on a television crime drama. Here is a scenario that occurs with nauseating regularity: The investigators go to the house of a person of interest in the murder of a young girl. The timid woman who answers the door is wearing a cross. Uh-oh. Thats called a clue. I always turn to Mr. AG and say, Crazy Christian Alert! Her husband did it. The girl was a foster child, molested by the Christian man and then killed to cover up the crime. The wife is cowed because she is also a battered wife. I always hope I am wrong; but I never am. In Hollywood, nobody good wears a cross. Out of ideas for decades, Hollywood needs villains and really has only three permitted categories.
You cant suggest that black gangstas commit horrific, pointless, drug-related crime every day that ends in y. Racist! You cant suggest that Muslims kill their daughters in honor killings. Islamophobic! And, you cant sell a script in which an illegal immigrant from El Savador is just a vicious, drug-dealing gang member with three teardrop murder tattoos whose Dreamer status comes from sniffing glue. Those are No-Go Zones in Hollywood.
The Open Season categories that can be vilified in the most stereotypical way for movies or television are Big something (Oil, Pharma, Bidness, Crooked Cops); rich, psycho serial killers; and Christians. Though black people are overwhelmingly Christian, be assured that virtually all of these Crazy Christian bad guys will be white. A Martian watching a few evenings of television programs and ads would conclude that while its remotely possible that all white men are not criminals, all criminals are definitely white men.
This column has been germinating for some time. Last summer I watched the DVD of Season 1 of True Detective, a beautifully-acted, mesmerizing series several years old. But the minute I saw the rich, white Southern preacher with a chain of private Christian schools, I knew he would turn out to be a pedophile monster. I watched it again with Mr. AG and he said the exact same thing without hints from me. Twofer: Christians AND Bad Cops!
Then Mr. AG ordered the great old action movie The Dirty Dozen from Netflix. The Lee Marvin character (the actor himself a World War II-era Marine) is tasked with recruiting for a near-suicide mission behind German lines twelve soldiers whose crimes have resulted in either death sentences or long prison terms at hard labor. He must turn them into a team.
Though very serious crimes have been committed, we get a sympathetic back story for eleven of the twelve convicts. Only one Telly Savalas has no redeeming features whatsoever. He is a Bible-quoting, lunatic rapist and murderer of women. His Christianity compels him to kill women he sees as sluts. Yawn. How many times have we seen this plot? He is, in short, barking mad and would no way have been chosen for the mission, which his insanity endangers at first contact with the enemy with disastrous results.
Leaping ahead half a century to Criminal Minds, Season 2. In one episode, the young agent, Spencer, is kidnapped, tortured and almost killed by a wait for it yes, a Crazy Christian! There is no attempt to humanize the young wacko except insofar as his evil stems from his Christian beliefs, passed on by HIS crazy, brutal Christian father, end of story.
However, in an earlier episode, we find a jihadi in a Guantanamo setting believed to have information about a pending terrorist attack. HIS actions, naturally, have nothing to do with Islam. You see, his young son has been killed by the deliberate bombing of civilians by the evil Americans. The writers carefully portray him bruised from unseen beatings by his interrogators. He lies repeatedly to his gentle interrogator, the Mandy Patinkin character, and is, in fact, guilty as sin of plotting a massive attack, barely foiled.
More than an entire season of Homeland revolved around a similar plot. The most adorable little child actor on the planet is killed by American drones targeting his madrassa. It made me cry even knowing I was being manipulated. No mention at all of the standard practice of embedding arms and terrorists in civilian areas, schools and mosques.
This is the propaganda we are spoon fed daily. It cannot help but have an effect. The deliberate attack on Christianity is relentless. Since Christianity is also a more important part of the culture in the South and Red states, it is also a not-very-subtle political attack.
The bias is so ham-handed it makes you wonder: have these writers never met even one devout Christian? Most (not all) of my friends who arent observant Jews are religious Christians. Would the writers be even a little embarrassed to write such bigotry if they knew my friend Barb smart as a whip with genius sons and grandkids hospice volunteer, pro-life activist? Whenever she hears the siren of an ambulance, she bows her head and prays for the strangers in that ambulance. She is the fiercest Prayer Warrior I know, but youll NEED prayer to play Scrabble with her: Dear Lord, please giveth me the J, the X and the Z so I mighteth smite Barb just this once. Oh, and some good vowels couldnt hurt. What am I supposed to do with this fourth U, Lord? She wont accept Uhuru from Star Trek. Amen.
I want to end with a few snippets culled from Brad Paisleys song Those Crazy Christians (written by Kelley Lovelace and Brad Paisley). Go to YouTube and listen to the whole thing. Its a tiny drop of balance in an ocean of overt, despicable, anti-Christian bigotry.
Every untimely passing, every dear departed soul
Is just another good excuse to bake a casserole
Instead of being outside on this sunny afternoon
Theyre by the bedside of a stranger in a cold hospital room
They look to heaven their whole life
And I think what if theyre wrong but what if theyre right
You know its funny, much as Im baffled by it all
If I ever really needed help, well you know who Id call
Is those crazy Christians.
Eliana Johnson reports that some White House officials are opposing the selection by James Mattis of Anne Patterson for the position of undersecretary of defense for policy. The opposition reportedly stems mainly from Pattersons actions as U.S. ambassador to Egypt in the Obama administration.
Eliana explains:
Patterson worked closely with former Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi and his Islamist government. She came under fire for cultivating too close a relationship with the regime and for discouraging protests against itand White House officials are voicing concerns about those decisions now.
I discussed Pattersons support of Morsi here, stating:
Patterson stood firmly behind the Brotherhood as it persecuted opponents and attempted to consolidate its rule. Consequently, she was reviled by the Brotherhoods opponents to the point that, according to Johnson, when she left her post Egyptians partied outside the U.S. Embassy in a good riddance celebration.
I also criticized Pattersons subsequent performance assistant secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs. Citing Bridget Johnsons reporting, I wrote:
[M]embers of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee concluded, based on briefings from [Patterson], that she and the administration she represents had no handle on the emerging threat posed by ISIS. While she spoke in platitudes about countering ISIS using diplomacy and development and by strengthening our business and people-to-people ties, the terrorists were rampaging through Iraq and establishing their caliphate. Patterson has been equally clueless on the subject of Libya. . .Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen recalled in a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing that in June Patterson told lawmakers she was optimistic that the elections in Libya, which were the third in less than two years, would be an important step forward toward Libyas stability.
To say that Patterson is clueless about Israel and the Palestinians would probably be charitable. Biased against Israel may be a better description
Palestinian Media Watch tells us: In testimony to Congress, Patterson defended the Palestinian Authority practice of paying salaries to terrorists in prison saying they have to provide for the families.'
In addition, Patterson reportedly supported, and may have been a driver behind, the Obama administrations one-sided approach to the killing of a PLO terrorist who happened to hold American citizenship:
The U.S. Embassy in Israel demanded that the Israeli government launch a full-scale investigation of the [Mahmoud] Shalan incident. For some reason, the embassy did not demand that the Palestinian Authority (PA) investigate why Shalan, who was a resident of PA territory, was trying to murder Israelis. Nor do I recall the U.S. embassy ever urging the PA to investigate when its own policemen have murdered American citizens in Israel. The embassys concerns seem to be quite selective. Well, the Israeli government did conduct an investigation. The conclusions were straightforward. The Israeli Military Advocate General reported to the Obama administration that Shalan tried to commit murder and the soldiers were justified to shoot back. Therefore, the soldiers were not prosecuted. Nevertheless, Assistant Secretary of State for Near East Affairs Anne Patterson asserted this week that the Obama administration continues to have concerns about the death of this American citizen. She vowed that the administration will remain engaged with the government of Israel on this issue.
(Emphasis added)
Secretary of Mattis is vastly respected and deserves plenty of deference when it comes to picking his top staff. However, if any of the reporting cited above is correct, and surely some of it is, the White House is wise to question giving a top policy position at the Pentagon to Anne Patterson.
And, absent a good explanation by Mattis of his support for Patterson, the White House would be wise to wonder what that backing says about how he views the Middle East.
Malaysian Police on Friday issued a warrant of arrest for a North Korean airline employee, Kim Uk Il, 37, in connection to the killing of Kim Jong Nam, the report said.
It said that the accused, who reportedly works for Air Koryo, was named in the arrest warrant.
The Malaysias Immigration Department also said that another North Korean man, who was detained over the Feb. 13 killing, was released and would be deported to Pyongyang later in the day.
Police did not say why Ri Jong Chol, who was apprehended on Feb. 17, was being held.
The 47-year-old worked in an IT department in Kuala Lumpur wa seen on Friday wearing a bulletproof vest outside the Sepang police station while being escorted by police.
Attorney General Mohamed Apandi Ali had said on Thursday that Ri would be released due to insufficient evidence.
However, Ris family has gone into hiding.
I dont know where they [Ris family] went.
His wife and children left in a hurry.
We are still in shock over what happened, a neighbour in Ris condominium said.
Ri graduated in 2011 from a North Korean university and previously worked for a research centre in India, The Star Online reported.
Malaysian officials condemned the alleged use of VX nerve agent in the killing, saying its use at a public place could have endangered the general public.
Malaysia does not produce, stockpile, import, export or use any toxic chemicals including VX.
Malaysia has fully cooperated with the organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and has complied entirely with all its obligations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
On Wednesday, two women, one from Indonesia and one from Vietnam were charged with murder for allegedly poisoning Kim by rubbing VX nerve agent on his face at Kuala Lumpurs international airport.
North Korean diplomat Ri Tong Il has insisted that Kim Jong Nam was not poisoned, noting that Kim had a history of high blood pressure and could have died of a heart attack.
Ri, Pyongyangs former deputy ambassador to the UN had said on Thursday that samples of the toxic substance used in the attack should be sent to the OPCW for further evaluation.
The aftermath of the high-profile killing has strained diplomatic relations between Pyongyang and Kuala Lumpur.
Police are searching for a total of seven North Koreans believed to be linked to the killing, including a diplomat at the North Korean embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
Police asked Interpol to issue an alert for four who fled Malaysia to Pyongyang on the day of Kims murder. The remaining three are thought to be in Malaysia.
(dpa/NAN)
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Some hundreds of Islamists on Friday marched in Dhaka to demand the government remove a statue of Lady Justice installed in 2016 on the Supreme Court premises.
We will be forced to go for tougher agitation unless the statue is removed immediately, Mosaddeque Billah, one of the leaders of the group Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, told a rally after Friday prayers.
The radical group, which campaigns for a blasphemy law, also announced a nationwide demonstration for March 10.
It said that would be followed by yet another on March 18 to press their demand for the removal of the statue of a blindfolded woman in a sari holding scales and a sword in her hands.
The statue that represents the Roman goddess Iustitia, or the Greek goddess Themis, was set up on the Bangladesh Supreme Court premises in December.
The Islamic group says the setting up of idols is prohibited in Islam.
We cant allow any idol in Muslim-majority Bangladesh, Billah said.
Over 90 per cent of Bangladeshs 160 million inhabitants identify as Muslim.
The country is governed by a secular constitution based on British common law, but radical Islamic groups have long been campaigning for the introduction of strict Islamic law, or sharia. (dpa/NAN)
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday filed a three-count charge against two multinational oil firms, Shell and ENI, for their roles in the $1.1 billion Malabu oil scam.
The EFCC had in December filed related charges against two former Nigerian ministers, Mohammed Adoke and Dan Etete, and others after concluding investigations on the 2011 controversial sale of OPL 245.
The alleged fraud committed by the ex-Nigerian officials and officials of the oil firms, has also led to investigations and charges in Italy.
The EFCC had also secured a court order ensuring the return of the OPL 245 to the Nigerian government, pending the determination of the court case against the defendants.
Although Shell and ENI have appealed that court order obtained on January 26, both companies were not charged for their roles by the Nigerian government until Thursday.
The defendants according to the fresh charge include the Shell Nigeria Exploration Production Company Limited; Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited; ENI SPA: the then directors of the oil firms, Ralph Wetzels, Casula Roberto, Pujati Stefeno, and Burrafato Sebastiano; Dauzia Lauya also known as Dan Etete;Mohammed Adoke; Aliyu Abubakar, and Malabu Oil and Gas Limited.
Messrs Casula and Etete were also among those indicted by Italian prosecutors who have indicated their intentions to file charges against them.
According to the charges filed on Thursday, the defendants were accused of committing the crime of conspiracy to commit felony against the provisions of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences, ICPC, Act.
The oil firms and their then directors were also alleged to have fraudulently paid $801 million to Messrs. Adoke, Etete, Aliyu, and Malabu for the oil block.
OPL 245 is considered one of Nigerias richest oil blocks and estimated to contain over nine billion barrels of crude.
Investigations had revealed that former President Goodluck Jonathan ordered the handing over of OPL 245 to Malabu, shortly after assuming office in 2010.
According to investigations, Mr. Jonathan asked the then Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, to solidify the transfer of OPL 245 to Malabu, a company then controlled by a fellow Nigerian from the Niger-Delta region, Dan Etete.
Despite Mr. Jonathans directive that Malabu be given OPL 245, the company really did not exist and had no staff or technical competence to manage the block. Based on advice from desperate businessmen, including an Israeli, Ednan Agaev, Mr. Etete decided to cash in on the block.
Through various middlemen, the former minister approached oil giants, Shell and ENI, to buy the block. Knowing Mr. Etetes history, including the fact that he had been convicted in France for money laundering, the oil firms would not do a direct deal.
For the transaction to continue, a legally recognised mediator would have to be found.
That mediator turned out to be the Nigerian government, represented by Mr. Adoke.
The agreements that were sealed led to Shell and ENI paying the $1.1 billion into a Nigerian government account in JP Morgan Chase in London. The money was to then be transferred to Malabu accounts controlled by Mr. Etete.
Although Shell and ENI have repeatedly claimed they did not know the money was going to end up with Malabu, investigations in Nigeria and Italy as well as leaked documents revealed that claim to be false. Mr. Adoke himself would later admit that he, on behalf of the federal government, only acted as a mediator for two willing parties Malabu and the oil majors. Mr. Adoke was, however, aware of the various fraudulent manipulations of Malabu by Mr. Etete when he authorised the transaction, multiple sources have told PREMIUM TIMES.
TRANSFERS TO FRAUDULENT FIRMS
To ensure no one stopped the shady transfer of the $1.1 billion to Mr. Etete, the money had to be quickly transferred. More so, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was set to assume office as Nigerias Finance Minister and the officials involved were not sure she would play ball.
On August 16, 2011, a day before Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala was to assume office, Mr. Adoke and the then Minister of State for Finance, Yerima Ngama, authorised the transfer of the money to Malabu accounts in Nigeria controlled by Mr. Adoke. However, all the $1.1 billion could not be transferred. Emeka Obi, a man who claimed he helped broker the deal between Malabu and the oil majors filed a suit in the UK, that ensured $215 million was frozen of the money. The remaining $801 million was subsequently transferred to Mr. Etete: $400 million was transferred to a Bank PHB account while $401 million was transferred to a First Bank account.
Immediately Mr. Etete received the money, curious transfers began. PREMIUM TIMES investigations, now confirmed by the EFCC, reveal that shady companies linked to Abubakar Aliyu received about $479 million dollars from Mr. Etete. Our investigations later showed that most of the companies were non-existent and used fake addresses in their registration documents.
The companies Rocky Top Resource Ltd, Imperial Union Ltd, Novel Properties & Dev. Co. Ltd, A-Group Construction Ltd, and Megatech Engineering Ltd were all charged in the suit filed by the EFCC last December.
While Mr. Etete later admitted that only $250 million of the money paid into his account was his, Mr. Aliyu is believed to have acted as a front for officials of the Goodluck Jonathan administration, including Mr. Adoke.
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Multiple bomb blasts hit Maiduguri early Friday with many feared dead.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, said the attacks were carried out by suspected suicide bombers around the NNPC depot on Damboa Road, Maiduguri.
The police commands spokesman, Victor Isuku, confirmed the blasts on Friday.
Our men are still working at the scene, NAN quoted Mr. Isuku as saying.
He promised to supply details later.
A witness, Abubakar Kaumi, told journalists at the scene that the blast occurred around 3 a.m.
A woman suspected to be a suicide bomber walking alongside two girls came round the depot.
They detonated their explosives near some petrol tankers parked there, and destroyed the three vehicles.
Gladly, nobody was closed by, so, only the three bombers died, Mr. Kaumi said.
An official of the National Emergency Management Agency( NEMA), Abdul Ibrahim, also confirmed the report.
Three suspected suicide bombers detonated their explosives along Damboa road, Maiduguri, in the early hours of Friday, destroying three petrol tankers parked near the NNPC depot, Mr. Ibrahim said.
He said that the fire caused by the explosion had been brought under control while rescue efforts were ongoing.
(NAN)
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Nigerias acting president, Yemi Osinbajo, on Thursday directed the Minister of State for Petroleum, Ibe Kachikwu, to engage with International Oil Companies on the way forward over repeated calls for the relocation of their head offices to the states where they produce oil from.
Most of the IOCs in Nigeria have their headquarters in Lagos, south west of the country, hundreds of kilometers away from the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
The Niger Delta people have long complained that while oil exploration activities have polluted their environment, the IOCs were paying taxes and other benefits to another state.
Mr. Osibanjo, who was responding to the requests made by various interest groups in Akwa Ibom State during the town hall meeting he had with the people of the state, said the federal government was proposing a new vision for the people of oil producing communities.
The American oil giant, ExxonMobil, is one of the IOCs operating in Akwa Ibom, but with its head offices in Lagos.
The majority of the people of these communities, including the oil producing communities here in this state, have heard of the wealth that oil has brought, but have hardly benefited from it, Mr. Osinbajo said at the Government House banquet hall to an excited crowd of indigenes which included the state governor, Udom Emmanuel, the Senate Minority Leader, Godswill Akpabio, and the Managing Director of the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority, OGFZA, Umana Umana.
Mr. Osinbajo admitted that the blessings of oil have sadly become a curse for the people.
He said that he and his entourage were visiting the state on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari.
Mr. Buhari has been on leave for more than 40 days now, in London.
During the town hall meeting, the people told Mr. Osinbajo that the long years of oil exploration did not bring along the expected development and happiness to the state.
Nduese Essien, a former minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, for instance, told the acting president that the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, which is a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, has no befitting office in the state.
Mr. Essien, who is also a former member of the House of Representatives, said the DPR was operating from a rented two-bedroom apartment in Eket, adding that NNPC itself has no single office in Akwa Ibom, despite the fact that the state was the largest oil producing state in the country.
When they (NNPC workers) come to Akwa Ibom to supervise oil production, where they are joint venture partners with oil companies, they stay in the tents provided by the oil companies, Mr. Essien said. And you know what that means.
None of the NNPC subsidiaries is located in Akwa Ibom State. Theres no oil depot in the state for refined petroleum products. The communities are neither stakeholders nor shareholders in the oil business.
Apart from the 13 per cent oil derivation money paid to the state government, the oil producing communities in Akwa Ibom have nothing to show for several years of oil exploration in the state.
The federal government has shown no interest in meaningful development and presence in the areas, other than providing policemen and other security personnel in the area.
They only provide policemen and other security to ensure that oil flows uninterrupted in the area.
The oil services companies come from outside Akwa Ibom with their workers whose taxis are paid to their places of residence. The auxiliary benefits and the multiplier effects of operating in the oil producing area are therefore lost.
Mr. Essien said the story of oil exploration in the state was the story of woes, and added that the state was exceptionally peaceful in the Niger Delta region because the elders prevailed upon the youth not to bomb oil pipelines.
We can no longer guarantee that the youth will continue to listen to us if the federal government continues to ignore us, Mr. Essien said, pleading with the federal government to reward the state with needed projects and human development.
He reiterated the demand of the people that oil companies operating in the state should move their headquarters to the state.
Today, all those impediments ranging from lack of airport, road network, housing, and accommodation have been conquered. They dont have any excuse not to move their headquarters to Akwa Ibom.
Both the acting president and the minister of state for Petroleum praised the Akwa people for not resorting to the bombing of oil pipelines.
Mr. Kachikwu promised that he would ensure that NNPC establishes its presence in the state.
This state is not just known as the highest producer of oil in Nigeria, it is also the most peaceful state, Mr. Kachikwu said. I would not have been able to deliver some of the results we are seeing today without the support of the people of this state.
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The police in Abuja released the commandant of the Nigerian Peace Corps, Dickson Akoh, on Thursday night, two days after he was arrested on allegations of running an outlawed organisation.
Mr. Akoh was arrested on Tuesday night after police officers, in a joint operation with the Nigerian Army and State Security Service, stormed the head office of the Peace Corps in Abuja, whisking him and 49 other members of the group away.
The police paraded Mr. Akoh and his men on Wednesday afternoon, saying the Peace Corps has unlawfully turned itself into a security outfit without the authorisation and establishment by the Federal government.
The police said a gazette promulgated by the Nigerian government in 2013 had outlawed the Peace Corps and other similar groups operating private paramilitary agencies across the country.
But Mr. Akoh denied the allegation, saying he established the group to instil discipline in Nigeria and create employment opportunities for the countrys teeming youth.
The police spokesperson, Jimoh Moshood, confirmed the release of Mr. Akoh and the other 49 arrested members.
Mr. Akoh was released on bail with a condition that he must report at the Federal Capital Territory Command of the force every day.
He was released on Thursday night after providing a surety and there are conditions attached to that, Mr. Moshood told PREMIUM TIMES by telephone Friday night. He will be reporting at the FCT Command where the case is being handled.
PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the Peace Corps head office remained locked by the police, and it might not be opened until the tension died down.
The arrests came weeks after the Nigerian Senate and the House of Representatives harmonised the Nigerian Peace Corps Bill to give the group, which had operated as a volunteer organisation for 18 years, government backing.
PREMIUM TIMES learnt the SSS and police submitted memoranda to the National Assembly against the establishment of the Peace Corps, but the lawmakers went ahead with the passage of the bill, anyway.
The bill is expected to be forwarded to President Muhammadu Buhari for his assent, although it is not clear if the president will support the creation of another paramilitary agency.
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Police say a man was punched in the face on a train in Brooklyn by an assailant who told him to go back to Mexico.
The incident happened around 5:20 p.m. on Wednesday. The 27-year-old victim was aboard a southbound J train pulling into the Crescent Street subway station in East New York when he was attacked. The assailant, who police say was wearing a grey sweatsuit and had braids, allegedly yelled at the victim, "Fucking Mexican, go back to your country."
The suspect then punched the man in the face twice, breaking his nose, and fled the scene. The victim was taken to Interfaith Hospital in stable condition. An NYPD spokesperson confirmed that the NYPDs Hate Crimes Task Force is investigating the incident.
The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has condemned the recent xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.
A statement signed by Ayuba Wabba, the NLC President, said the February attacks, like the attacks of 2008 and 2015, were unacceptable and avoidable.
The Nigerian Community in South Africa had in recent weeks suffered renewed xenophobic attacks by South Africans. While speaking on behalf of other Nigerians in South Africa in February, Ikechukwu Anyene, a leader of the community, confirmed the attacks and looting of Nigerian-owned businesses in Pretoria West.
The development prompted the Nigerian government to call on the African Union and the South African government to take decisive measures to protect Nigerian citizens and other Africans within South African borders.
Similarly, the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the attacks as an unnecessary setback.
In its statement on Thursday, Mr. Wabba urged the South African Government to move without further delay and take actions to prevent another occurrence.
For Africa and South Africa, the pursuit of togetherness, care, warm reception towards
and hospitality to others are some of the enduring attributes and essence of the Ubuntu spirit, he said.
It is unacceptable that foreigners, migrants, refugees and Asylum Seekers are labeled criminals as a justification to subject them to extra-judicial actions.
The NLC leader said it considers the South Africa Governments condemnation of this recent xenophobic attack as a positive action, stressing that the government should go beyond condemnation to investigate, prosecute and sanction persons, groups or individuals that might have played any role in this mindless attack on foreigners.
While condemning the comments of Herman Mashaba, the Mayor of Johannesburg, who was widely quoted as allegedly blaming foreigners for crimes and asking them to leave the city, the NLC said the Mayors comment was careless,
uncharitable and combustive.
Xenophobes find comment such as this as inspiration, especially as it is coming from high and official quarters, Mr. Wabba said.
Commenting further, the union leader noted that African workers and their trade unions will continue to stand for and defend civil liberties of all people, creed and race. He said the contribution of workers to humanity and the quest to attain social justice led to the defeat of apartheid.
In essence, the vestiges and hang-over of Apartheid must be consciously, systematically, steadfastly dealt with, he added.
Mr. Wabba also argued that democracy and governance are not delivering the anticipated, needed and urgent gains to people, stressing that endemic poverty and unemployment remain high amongst the majority of the people.
This is against the background where global wealth (including in Africa) continues to grow, but the gains are crassly appropriated by the 1%, the statement said.
Worst still, the class of the 1% has successfully captured power and government and so they continue to attract and enjoy obscene concessions and patronages from politicians and governments to the detriment of the constituents and constituencies that elected them.
Xenophobia thus becomes one of the ways that
accumulated and growing frustrations find expression.
The NLC, therefore, called on the South African government to do a thorough interrogation of xenophobia within her borders and to take progressive measures to rein it in.
Meanwhile, the South African government had earlier condemned the attacks, saying it will introduce teaching of history in schools to help South Africans understand the roles Nigeria and other African countries played during the apartheid struggle.
At least 20 Nigerians were reportedly killed in attacks in South Africa in 2016.
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The National Agency for the Control of AIDS, NACA, has warned against the danger that stigmatisation and discrimination against people living with HIV pose to Nigeria meeting the global goal of ending the HIV scourge by 2030.
The Director General of the Agency, Sani Aliyu, gave the warning in a statement on Wednesday to mark the Zero Discrimination Day being celebrated across the globe.
Mr. Aliyu said stigmatisation and discrimination would discourage people from going for HIV test and result in more people acquiring the virus.
Widespread stigma and discrimination towards people living with HIV adversely affect peoples willingness to take an HIV test. If people do not know their HIV status, the chances of those who are HIV positive transmitting the infection to their partners increases, Mr. Aliyu stated.
People living with HIV continue to face various forms of stigmatisation, discrimination and violations of their rights and dignity, which are barriers to the efforts to scale up access to comprehensive care, treatment, and support.
These have been described as major stumbling blocks to HIV and AIDS mitigation programmes as they discourage people from using HIV Counseling and Testing (HCT) services and pose a barrier to accessing treatment.
Mr. Aliyu praised the Nigerian authorities for enacting the HIV/AIDS Anti-Discrimination Act 2014, which aims to eliminate discrimination towards people living with HIV, as a step in the right direction.
The landmark legislation makes provisions for the prevention of HIV-related discrimination and provides for access to healthcare and other services. It also provides for protection of human rights and dignity of people living with HIV and those affected by AIDS in Nigeria.
The NACA boss said the Act is a reflection of Nigerias commitment to stopping all forms of stigmatisation and discrimination targeted at people living with HIV. He urged that the law be implemented effectively throughout the country.
As we look forward to the end of the AIDS epidemic by 2030, the Government of Nigeria remains fully committed to improving the health of Nigerians and getting to zero new HIV infections, zero AIDS related deaths and zero discrimination, Mr. Aliyu said.
The Executive Director of UNAIDS, Michel Sidibe, in his remarks on the significance of the Day said Everyone has the right to be treated with respect, to live free from discrimination, coercion and abuse.
Discrimination doesnt just hurt individuals, it hurts everyone, whereas welcoming and embracing diversity in all its forms brings benefits for all, he said.
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A suspected drug trafficker, Emeka Okafor, has said he went into narcotics trade to get enough money to rent a shop and invest in his business.
Mr. Okafor, 28, was among three suspects arrested by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
The NDLEA said, in a statement on Friday, that it also arrested a suspect smuggling ephedrine inside female footwears to Tanzania.
The names of the suspected drug traffickers are Ogujiuba Zacchaeus, 48 years old electrician caught exporting 26.6kg of ephedrine to Tanzania; Uchegbu Emeka, 33 years old textile merchant smuggling 305 grammes of cocaine to Cambodia and Okafor Emeka, 28 years old automobile parts dealer caught importing 1.370kg of cocaine from Sierra Leone, the agency said in a statement by its spokesperson, Mitchel Ofoyeju.
The agency said all the cases were being investigated and the suspects would appear in court soon.
My love for money made me to ingest 69 wraps of cocaine 1.370kgs in Sierra Leone, the agency quoted Mr. Okafor, an automobile parts dealer in Lagos, as saying.
Another suspect, Mr. Ogujiuba, said he was introduced into the illicit trade by an old friend.
I am married with six children and I reside in Abia where I work as an electrician, the suspect was quoted as saying.
The ephedrine was carefully hidden inside female shoes and given to me by an old time friend. He told me to take the drug to Lagos and handle the shipping arrangements to Tanzania. Unfortunately, I was arrested during examination of the consignment after the drug was discovered. I regret ever getting involved in drug trafficking.
Mr. Uchegbu, who allegedly inserted seven wraps of cocaine into his anus in a bid to evade arrest blamed his involvement on joblessness.
I am a textile merchant but today I am jobless. I lost everything due to economic recession and family problems, he said.
That was why I agreed to collect the sum of eight hundred thousand naira to smuggle cocaine to Cambodia. My intention was to invest the money in legitimate business.
The Chairman of the NDLEA, Muhammad Abdallah, assured members of the public that the agency would always ensure that offenders are severely sanctioned to deter others from engaging in drug trafficking.
The agency will continue to work very hard in ensuring the certainty of commensurate punishment for all drug culprits in line with the NDLEA Act, Mr. Abdallah stated.
The NDLEA boss added that investing proceeds of drug trafficking in legitimate businesses is money laundering and that the agency would invoke relevant sections of the law against offenders.
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Speaker Yakubu Dogara on Friday said he was hurt very deeply by the death of Benjamin Idoko, a police sergeant who was his convoys outrider until his death.
Mr. Idoko was leading the way for Mr. Dogaras convoy on Wednesday when his motorcycle crashed into a vehicle, killing him instantly.
It is not immediately clear if there were other casualties in the accident.
Mr. Dogara on Friday night condoled with the family of the deceased and the Speakers wife led a delegation of lawmakers wives to see the bereaved.
A burial committee was also constituted by the Speaker to complete burial arrangements. The committee will meet on Saturday to review its task, Mr. Dogaras spokesperson, Turaki Hassan, said in a statement.
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The Managing Director, Nigerian Petroleum Development Company Limited, NPDC, Yusufu Matashi, on Thursday told Justice Nnamdi Dimgba of the Federal High Court in Abuja that his company allocated 7,553,733 barrels of crude oil to Atlantic Energy under a Strategic Alliance Agreement.
He gave this revelation under cross-examination by Lawal Rabana, representing Jide Omokore who is facing trial alongside Victor Briggs, Abiye Membere, David Mbanefo, Atlantic Energy Brass Development Limited and Atlantic Energy Drilling Concepts Limited on a nine-count amended charge of criminal diversion of about $1.6 billion alleged to be proceeds of sale of petroleum products belonging to the federal government.
Mr. Matashi, whose evidence started on Wednesday as second prosecution witness, stated that while the total value of the transaction as at 2014 was $823,750,159, Atlantic Energy Drilling Concept Limited could not meet up with its cash call for operations and training which made NPDC, a subsidiary of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, to use funds in its account to clear outstanding payments.
Responding to further questions from A. Adegbamere and Tayo Oyetibo, representing 3rd and 4th defendants respectively, Mr. Matashi maintained that, Atlantic Energy Brass Development Limited and Atlantic Energy Drilling Concept Limited breached the contractual agreement made with NPDC.
The two firms are linked to Mr. Omokore.
All I have said were based on records which I believe in its truthfulness and accuracy. The SAA under review was carried out because of the success of the previous SAA and there was need to consolidate on the gains achieved earlier, said the NPDC MD.
Justice Dimgba, thereafter, adjourned to March 21, 2016 for further trial.
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Multiple bomb blasts hit Maiduguri early Friday with many feared dead.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, said the attacks were carried out by suspected suicide bombers around the NNPC depot on Damboa Road, Maiduguri.
The police commands spokesman, Victor Isuku, confirmed the blasts on Friday.
Our men are still working at the scene, NAN quoted Mr. Isuku as saying.
He promised to supply details later.
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The police have confirmed that one person was injured during an armed robbery attack on Thursday night in a community in Apo district of Abuja.
The Abuja police spokesperson, Anjuguri Mamza, who confirmed the incident on Friday, told PREMIUM TIMES that the police swung into action immediately they received a distress call.
Yes it was a robbery attack. Some armed robbers came into the community. Immediately we received a distress call, our men mobilised and stormed the area.
The robbers were repelled and forced to abandon their operations, Mr. Mamza said.
PREMIUM TIMES reported the story of the attack late Thursday night when a resident, Ebere Emeka, raised an alarm druing the attack at Pigba Sama area of Apo.
Another resident, who gave his name as Chimezie, also confirmed several gun shots within the area.
The police spokesperson said the robbers made away with some property and injured one resident.
Some properties were stolen and one person was injured. The injured person was taken to the hospital by the police and he is responding to treatment.
Mr. Mamza, however, said no arrest has been made.
Nobody was arrested. Our men have been on the trail of the robbers throughout the night and we are actually closing in on them, he added.
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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has clarified media reports that he is pushing for a Nigerian president of Igbo extraction in 2019.
In a recent interview with journalists, Mr. Obasanjo said he only made a passing analogy between the marginalisation of the people of Southeast and indigenes of Ogun West Senatorial District in Ogun State.
The former leader said he told a group of visiting Christian leaders some weeks ago that he would like to see an end to apparent marginalisation of people he mentioned, but did not say it must happen in 2019 or 2023.
Again, I did not say that. You people say whatever you want to say, Mr. Obasanjo told journalists who met him in Abeokuta as part of the activities marking his 80th birthday.
Some media outlets had reported Mr. Obasanjos comment as a call for an Igbo presidency in 2019.
Some critics accused the former president of sectionalism.
A former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Victor Attah, described Mr. Obasanjos comments as divisive.
But Mr. Obasanjo said he never actually made such call.
Look, Christian Association of Nigeria, Ogun State chapter, came to see me here. They asked me to brief them on the situation in Southern Kaduna.
I have been briefed by Bishop Matthew Kukah who comes from that area. I have been briefed by General Martin-Luther Agwai who comes from that area. I gave them my own understanding of that issue.
I told them the Southern Kaduna issue is both historical, cultural, religious and political. So if you now want to resolve the issue, you have to take all these issues together.
And I said the problem is when we fail to attend to something the time were supposed to attend to it and then it boomerangs on our face, then we dont have anybody to blame.
I said, here in Ogun State, we have a bit of Southern Kaduna problem. I said since Ogun State was created, we have had four elected governors.
We have three senatorial districts east, central and west. It has rotated between east and central. And I said west has not had a governor.
So I said I dont know when you will get there, but if you dont get there when you should get there and the west decides to go into agitation then you have yourself to blame.
I said the same with Nigeria, at independence we had a country of tripod. The north, the east and the west. The north, majority tribe is Hausa-Fulani. The east, majority tribe is Igbo. The west, majority tribe is Yoruba.
Hausa-Fulani in the north cannot complain. Yoruba, they cannot complain. Even those who didnt vote for Obasanjo the first time, they had to accept later.
I said the Igbo havent had that chance. Now, we must be mindful, that we do not ignore that. That must be taken care of.
Thats all, the former president added.
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The Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, PACAC, said on Friday allegations of corruption it levelled against the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, were not directed at the current board and management.
The Chairman of the Committee, Itse Sagay, had on Thursday accused the governing board and management of the commission of being reckless with funds meant for the development of the oil-rich region.
The law professor, who spoke at the opening of a two-day national dialogue on corruption in Abuja organised by PACAC in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President, said the commission had bought 70 exotic cars, including eight super Lexus SUVs at N78 million each, and 10 Landcruiser SUVs each costing N63 million.
He did not clarify the period the vehicles were bought, and did not disclose the management that ordered the purchase.
Following the report, the Commissions spokesperson, Chijioke Amu-Nnadi, debunked the allegations, saying no such purchases were made since the current board assumed office on November 4, 2016.
Indeed, it is a known fact that the Chairman, the distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), the Managing Director/CEO, Nsima Ekere, and the two Executive Directors are still using their private vehicles three months after assumption of duties, Mr. Amu-Nnadi said in a statement.
Mr. Amu-Nnadi said the Commission was only now in the process of acquiring operational vehicles.
He listed the vehicles to include five Toyota Prado SUVs, 10 Toyota Hilux trucks, four Toyota Landcruiser SUVs, one Toyota Coaster bus and two Toyota Hiace buses.
He said the procurement procedures were being followed in making the purchases.
In its reaction to the NDDC rebuttal, PACAC insisted its chairman, Mr. Sagay, was right with the allegations, but blamed the commission for not seeking for clarifications.
The NDDC ought to confirm the claim by the Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, Professor Itse Sagay by seeking clarification on the administration under which the said vehicles were purchased, Okon Eminue, a representative of the presidential committee said in a statement.
Prof Sagay is quite right. The vehicles were bought by one of the past administrations of the NNDC.
The committee said when the details of the purchase were first published, the immediate past Managing Director of NDDC, Dan Abia, was still in office.
Mr. Abia was appointed by former President Goodluck Jonathan, and left office in 2015.
To be sure, President Muhammadu Buhari had assumed office when the scam came to light. One would have thought that the EFCC and other anti-graft agencies would wade into the allegations at that time. Consequently, Professor Sagays accusation or allegation does not say that the scam is perpetrated by the current leadership of the NDDC, Mr. Eminue said.
For emphasis, Prof Sagays allegation does not, in any way, pertain to the present Board and Management of NDDC under the leadership of Distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN (Board Chairman, NDDC) and His Excellency Obong Nsima Ekere (Managing Director, NDDC). The scam even came to limelight before Mrs Seminitari was appointed Acting MD, NDDC, he added.
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Almost 100 Aero Contractors passengers booked to travel from Sokoto to Lagos and Abuja on Friday were left stranded at the airport after their flights were cancelled at the last minute.
No reason was given for the cancellation of the flight, which was scheduled to depart Saad Abubakar 111 International Airport at 1.30 p.m.
Majority of the stranded passengers were journalists and Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, management staff who were returning to their stations after attending a workshop for Business Editors and Finance Correspondents.
Some foreigners, who were also affected, were mostly United Nations officials as well as others Nigerians travelling to Abuja to board their flights outside the country.
Few minutes before the schedule time for boarding, the announcement came that the flight would be delayed for about two hours.
More than one hour after later, at about 2.30 p.m., the announcement came from the public address system at the departure hall confirming the eventual cancellation of the flight.
Aero Contractors staff at the airport could not offer any explanation why the flight was put off.
The only other airline operating at the airport, Air Peace, had taken off earlier in the day on its morning flight at 10.30 a.m.
Arik Airline, which was earlier scheduled to operate one flight out of the airport on Friday, announced cancellation on Thursday.
Majority of its passengers who were disappointed with Arik airlines cancellation expected to travel with Aero.
But, the cancellation by Aero meant those passengers, who did not opt for the journey by road, would be stranded for two days.
Following their protest to the airlines office at the airport, the stranded passengers were asked to either return to the locations they did their bookings for the refund, or wait till Sunday when the airlines next flight to Sokoto is scheduled.
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The Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, says that Federal Government has made provision of N1 billion in the 2017 budget for the development of Ibaka deep seaport in Akwa Ibom.
Mr. Osinbajo said this in Uyo on Thursday while addressing a Townhall meeting of the government and people of the state.
The acting presidents visit was part of his consultation with people in the Niger Delta on how to maximise the gains of oil resources in the region.
The acting president, who was responding to myriads of complaints and requests by the people, said that budgetary provisions had also been made for the Itu Calabar federal highway in 2016.
Mr. Osinbajo said the Ministry of Petroleum Resources was working with Amnesty Office to accommodate more youth from Akwa Ibom into the Amnesty Programme.
I have heard all the requests. We must trust and give this government the patience that is required to put things right.
We are working on modular refineries. Power stations must be established here. We must make our oil producing communities hub of petrochemical and gas industries.
We must attract private investments. The biggest benefit is to attract more private investments to the state, Mr. Osinbajo advised.
The acting president regretted that the blessings of oil wealth had not touched the majority of the people in the oil bearing communities.
He said the Ministry of Petroleum Resources was working on several incentives for the oil producing communities.
Mr. Osinbajo also directed the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to liaise with the oil multinationals operating in the state on the modalities to relocate their headquarters following repeated requests.
The acting president promised to partner with the state government to establish technology hub in the state while advising the people to be resourceful and innovative.
He noted that the future depended on innovation and the ability to harness what we have for development.
In his presentation earlier, the state governor, Udom Emmanuel, appealed to the Federal Government to support the Ibaka deep seaport.
The governor also requested the Federal Government to partner with the state to establish a logistics centre for oil and gas operations.
Mr. Emmanuel appealed to the Federal Government to resolve the ownership problem in the Aluminum Smelting Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) to enable the state benefit from it.
The governor, who described the acting president as a development partner and leader, appealed to the Federal Government to allocate oil and gas block to indigenes of the state.
Speaking on behalf of oil producing communities, a former Minister of Lands and Housing, Nduese Essien, lamented that the state had nothing to show for being the highest oil producer.
Mr. Essien suggested that the coastal railway project of the Federal Government should pass through Oron- Eket- Ikot Abasi routes.
He called on the Federal Government to correct the anomaly in the section four of the East-West spanning Onna and Eket in Akwa Ibom.
In his presentation, the state leader, Pan Niger Delta Forum, Idongesit Nkanga, urged the federal government to partner with the state government to complete the hangar at the Akwa Ibom Airport.
Mr. Nkanga called for the speedy completion of the East-West road cutting across the state and also expedite the transformation of Maritime Academy into a university.
In his speech, the Senate Minority Leader, Godswill Akpabio, commended the federal government for appointing indigenes of the state into key government positions.
Mr. Akpabio, who spoke on behalf of the states elders council, asked for fairness and equity considering the allocation of projects in the Niger Delta region.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that representatives of youth, women and special interest groups spoke at the town hall meeting.
(NAN)
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The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine will pay a visit to Poland in July. "The Polish presidential couple with be happy to welcome them in our country in July of this year", presidential Minister Krzysztof Szczerski told PAP on Friday.
"The presidential couple received with joy news on the will to pay a visit to Poland by the Prince and Duchess of Cambridge. The Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine and Prince William will be welcomed guests in Poland. The Polish presidential couple will be happy to welcome them in our country in July this year", Minister Szczerski said.
"We see in this visit a confirmation of cordial ties between our countries and peoples. It is our intention for visit of the princely couple to include elements of an official visit and private time of both pairs", the presidential minister added.
Kensington Palace announced the official visit on Twitter on Friday. Prince William is the second in line to the British throne. (PAP)
Two Ypsilanti residents are behind bars in connection with the Sept. 17 shooting outside the now-closed Nar Bar on Michigan Avenue.
Allante Percy, 24, and Mario Amison, 29, were sentenced Feb.22 for the shooting, which sent three people to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
Percy accepted a plea agreement and was sentenced to a mandatory 2 years in prison on a felony firearm charge to run consecutively with 10 to 30 years for two counts of assault with intent to murder.
Amison was found guilty and sentenced to a mandatory 5 years in prison for felony firearm second offense to run consecutively with 5 years for carrying a concealed weapon and felon in possession of a firearm. He will also have to answer to his parole violation in addition to the other charges.
Crimes of this nature destroy peoples sense of safety and security and will not be tolerated in Dearborn, Police Chief Ronald Haddad said. I am grateful that the victims have recovered from their injuries, as the outcome of this incident could have been much worse. I commend the responding officers and the investigators for a job well done.
The night of the shooting, Dearborn police officers responded to the bar at 21918 Michigan Ave. after receiving reports of gunshots in the area. Upon arrival, they witnessed a subject shooting into a crowd of people. Two suspects fled in a vehicle and officers followed, later arresting them after a brief foot chase in the area of Michigan and Gulley. They were identified as Percy and Amison.
Three shooting victims were transported to a hospital for treatment of non-life threatening wounds.
On Feb. 1, Percy accepted a plea deal prior to a jury trial in front of Judge Catherine Heise in Third Circuit Court. He pleaded guilty to two counts of assault with intent to murder and felony firearm. Ten other charges were dismissed.
Also on Feb. 1, Amison was found guilty of carrying a concealed weapon, felony firearm and felon in possession of firearm after a bench trial in front of Heise.
The west Dearborn bar closed its doors in October 2016 after several shootings and numerous complaints about unruly patrons.
Since the incidents, the city has adopted a nuisance ordinance, which allows it to fine any Dearborn business declared to be a nuisance based on complaints about violence, drugs or other criminal behavior. If the business is found to be a nuisance, additional measures requiring increased security or addition of cameras would be required. The board also could review the business certificate of occupancy.
The action came on the heels of shootings at the former Liv Lounge, the Post Bar and Nar Bar.
A shooting took place in February 2016 on the dance floor at Liv Lounge, which prompted the city council to hold hearings regarding the business liquor license before it abruptly closed.
Another shooting took place April of last year outside The Post Bar on Michigan Avenue, and in July a transgender woman was attacked outside the establishment after an argument occurred when another bar patron made derogatory remarks about her.
A push to resurrect manufacturing jobs in South Jersey will likely involve an already notable industry in the region: food processing.
While the plan is in its formative stage, developers said it will include the Bridgeton-based Rutgers Food Innovation Center, a sort of incubator for new food-related businesses.
The plan may also involve what officials in Cumberland County are calling the next step in helping businesses that make it through the Food Innovation Center program. That involves construction of a 30,000-square-foot Food Specialization Center next to the Food Innovation Center.
The Food Specialization Center would provide a place for those entrepreneurs to further develop their products, said Gerard Velazquez, executive director of the Cumberland County Improvement Authority. The hope is that those entrepreneurs would remain in the region, and especially Cumberland County, after spending three to five years at the Food Specialization Center, formerly called the Food Commercialization Center.
The plan was discussed Wednesday during a meeting at Cumberland County College by a consortium that includes the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the New Jersey Institute of Technology and the New Jersey Advance Manufacturing Network. The food-processing plan would be part of whats called a targeted industry partnership, or TIP.
As with other TIPs, its hoped that manufacturers take the lead in developing the program, outlining their needs for advanced manufacturing jobs, said Raymond Vaccari, the networks executive director. The plan would cover Atlantic, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties.
Officials in South Jersey have long bemoaned the loss of manufacturing jobs over the past three decades.
The consortium estimates the state still has about 11,000 manufacturing firms, with about 90 percent of those firms having no more than 50 employees. Those firms provided an estimated $13.5 billion in total wages in 2015, they said.
But, Vaccari said, there are indications that the 30-year-old trend may be in reverse, creating a situation in which manufacturing companies need more highly skilled laborers. The consortium believes food processing can be a significant draw for those kinds of workers.
Agriculture remains a significant part of South Jerseys economy, Velazquez said. Further developing that economy will not only create new jobs, it will have a spillover effect for businesses, such as farms, that would support it, he said.
Food processing in South Jersey generally remains strong.
In June 2015, Bridor USA opened what it called the largest in-line pastry production center in the United States. The line is housed in a $32 million, 42,000-square-foot addition to the companys plant on Industrial Way in Vineland.
In October, AdvancePierre Foods of Cincinnati bought Allied Specialty Foods Inc., which produces raw and cooked beef and chicken Philly steak products.
The $60 million cash purchase came at a time when Allied was expanding its operations in Vineland. The company planned to move from its 20,000-square-foot facility in the 300 block of Hickory Place to a 70,000-square-foot facility at Forest Grove Road and Freddy Lane. Work on the new facility was estimated at $13.4 million.
And Omni Baking has a 171,000-square-foot facility in Vineland that produces fresh, frozen, baked and par-baked items that include artisan, Kaiser, Italian and ciabatta rolls. Omni also produces all the hoagie rolls for Wawa.
But not the all the food-processing related news is good.
General Mills is closing its Progresso soup plant in Vineland this year. The closing will result in 338 layoffs, with the first 65 employees scheduled to lose their jobs March 24.
TRENTON Senate President Stephen Sweeney is scheduled to meet with Hammonton school officials to talk about his funding plan 3:30 p.m. Friday at Hammonton High School. The meeting is open to the public.
Total state aid information, including district breakdowns, is online at www.state.nj.us/education/stateaid/1718/.
The state Department of Education released school state aid allocations to districts Thursday, and as expected, funding is essentially flat once again.
Gov. Chris Christies proposed budget would allocate $13.8 billion toward public education. That amount is an increase of $523.2 million from fiscal year 2017, but almost all of that will go to underfunded pensions and post-retirement medical benefits for teachers.
Of the total funding, $9.2 billion is direct aid to be distributed to the districts, an increase of $16.1 million from fiscal year 2017 levels.
Atlantic City is again budgeted to get an additional $32 million in special aid as a result of the massive drop in property valuation in the city. The district is the only one in the state eligible for the additional allocation, which was approved by the state Legislature last year as part of the Atlantic City package of bills. The district is receiving $32 million this year.
School funding likely flat next year, but could change in 100 days Despite meetings, hearings and legislative angst, it appears New Jerseys school districts w
Legislators have been holding hearings throughout the state on school funding, and Christie in his budget message Tuesday said he would work with them to develop an improved funding plan, but it had to be done in 100 days.
However, it is unknown if any new plan would have an impact on the 2017-18 aid numbers.
Lawrence S. Feinsod, executive director of the New Jersey School Boards Association, issued a statement Tuesday saying another year of flat funding warrants a hard look at the states school finance system.
Operating costs dont remain flat, he said. It is difficult to sustain programs with flat funding year in and year out.
However, he said, any change to school funding must be implemented in a rational and fair manner that recognizes the educational needs of all students and a communitys ability to pay for its schools.
There should never be winners and losers when it comes to the lives of children, he said.
Egg Harbor Township won't have full-day kindergarten next year EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP The local school district will not offer full-day kindergarten in September.
Senate President Stephen Sweeney is scheduled to meet with Hammonton school officials to talk about his funding plan 3:30 p.m. Friday at Hammonton High School. The meeting is open to the public.
Total state aid information, including district breakdowns, is online at www.state.nj.us/education/stateaid/1718/.
Increased access to naloxone, the lifesaving opioid-overdose reversal drug, may come to a pharmacy or ambulance company serving your area soon, if state lawmakers continue to push forward legislation.
Assembly members last week approved bills to streamline the process for pharmacists to dispense naloxone to clients without a prescription and do away with regulations that limit the amount of naloxone first responders, such as EMTs and firefighters, may give someone who has overdosed.
The more accessible (naloxone) is, the more chances we have to save lives, Assemblyman and bill sponsor Vincent Mazzeo, D-Atlantic, wrote in a statement.
Nationally, overdose deaths eclipse both deaths by firearm and motor vehicle, becoming the leading cause of injury here and afar.
New Jersey had 1,587 drug-related deaths in 2015, according to the state Medical Examiners Office, and 900 of them included heroin.
One bill sponsored by Assembly Democrats would enable EMTs and firefighters to give multiple doses of naloxone to an overdosing person, if needed just as police officers, paramedics and civilians are able to do.
EHT pharmacy plays role in improving access to opioid-reversal drugs EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP Local pharmacists have designed a program to get more naloxone, the li
Current protocols under the state Office of Emergency Medical Services require EMTs and firefighters to get approval from an EMS director to dispense any additional doses of naloxone after the first dose of 2 milligrams.
Ive been on the front lines of the opioid and heroin epidemic, and Ive personally sat for minutes that felt like lifetimes awaiting instructions from an EMS director instead of doing what my training tells me to do: save lives, said John Armato, of Buena Vista Township, a volunteer firefighter and former EMT.
First responders are also limited in the type of naloxone brand they can carry and give, as some brands, such as the Narcan nasal spray, come in a single dose of 4 milligrams.
The proposed law would allow all first responders to use any Federal Drug Administration-approved naloxone product, regardless of dosage.
John Wolfram, general manager of the Exceptional Medical Transport company in Atlantic City, and his EMTs routinely respond to overdose calls in the city. They each carry 2 milligram doses of syringe nasal spray naloxone.
Wolfram said as more people use mixed substances and fentanyl, which is 50 times more potent than heroin, a single dose may not be enough to revive someone with a reversal drug alone. Fewer restrictions would help his team in that regard, but first responders should be cautious with naloxone use, he said.
If you give someone too much Narcan and they dont need it, you could send them into immediate withdrawal and cause them to become violently ill, he said. Reversing overdose is important, but keeping the brain and body alive with oxygenation is important, too.
The bill now awaits final consideration in the Assembly.
A second Mazzeo-sponsored bill would help pharmacies more easily dispense naloxone and allow pharmacists to give opioid antidotes to patients who do not have prescriptions.
Current law, under the Overdose Prevention Act, states pharmacies that wish to give people naloxone without prescriptions must form a partnership, or have a standing order, with a licensed physician.
Mazzeo calling on all local police officers to carry anti-overdose drug In the face of a deadly heroin epidemic, a state lawmaker is calling on all law-enforcement
Pharmacies can then dispense the reversal medications under that physicians name without him or her being present.
Chain retail stories, including CVS and Walgreens, have been giving over-the-counter naloxone doses at its New Jersey locations to people with and without prescriptions using the physician standing-order method.
But that can be a lengthy process.
Despite the current requirements, Mark Taylor, owner of Curexa Pharmacy in Egg Harbor Township, was determined to increase access to naloxone.
The pharmacy is in the final stages of completing a standing-order agreement with a physician to start dispensing the medication without prescriptions, but Taylor said the new law may make the process easier in the future.
As more people overdose and die from heroin, fentanyl and other drug use, Taylor said, naloxone needs to get into as many homes as possible.
The physician component of a standing order would be replaced with the state Department of Health, legislators said. The process would be similar to how pharmacies can administer flu immunizations on a wide scale with approval from the Heath Department.
The Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee approved the bill Monday. The state Senate passed the legislation in May.
A bill in the Legislature would name a section of road for Frankie Williams, the 31-year-old State Police trooper killed in December in a head-on crash on Route 55 in Cumberland County.
The road in question isnt Route 55 but a stretch of Route 322 in Williams hometown of Egg Harbor Township in Atlantic County.
Meanwhile, remnants of a homemade memorial remain at milepost 22.2 on Route 55 where Williams was killed. There are a few empty flower holders and what has come to be known as the thin blue line flag, a banner flown in support of law-enforcement officers.
But that memorial and others produced by grieving family members and friends of people who died in accidents on roads throughout the state may one day disappear.
Despite fatal crashes, Route 55 safe, data show A former Miss New Jersey was killed in a crash on Route 55 this year. So was a prison inmate
Another bill in the Legislature would require the state Department of Transportation to create a roadside accident memorial program. The proposal would allow the next-of-kin of a person who died in an accident to sponsor a roadside sign memorializing the deceased family member.
For the bills sponsors, Assemblymen Bruce Land and Bob Andrzejczak, D-Cape May, Cumberland, Atlantic, the measure is needed in part for public safety.
Family and friends will independently put together roadside memorials in honor of loved ones who died in an accident, but they sometimes can present a distraction that endangers drivers, especially if theyre very close to the road, Land said.
An official state program would allow people to express their grief and commemorate a loved one without compromising public safety, he said.
Most of the memorials are found along public rights-of-way. But the memorials can take over public property for personal use without approval, Andrzejczak said.
With a formal program, New Jersey can eliminate any discrepancies about who owns the sign and whos responsible for maintaining the area, he said.
The bill, recently released from the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee, requires next of kin seeking a memorial sign to provide DOT with the following information:
The name of the deceased
The date and location of the accident
An affidavit that the deceased was fatally injured in a traffic accident
All available police reports and other documentation related to the traffic accident
Any other information needed by DOT
The bill gives DOT 60 days after the filing of an application for a memorial to inspect the site and determine whether a sign can be installed. The department has an additional 60 days in which to install the memorial.
Williams was heading north on Route 55 on Dec. 5 to investigate reports of a vehicle being driven erratically. A vehicle driven south by 61-year-old Lloyd Rudley, of Philadelphia, crossed the median and collided head-on with Williams State Police cruiser at milepost 22.2.
Both Williams and Rudley were killed in the crash.
The other bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Vince Mazzeo, D-Atlantic, would name a portion of Route 322 in Egg Harbor Township, aka the Black Horse Pike, State Trooper Frankie Williams Memorial Highway.
Trooper Frankie Williams was a dedicated Atlantic County public servant who pursued a career in law enforcement and made the ultimate sacrifice while working to protect the people of New Jersey, Mazzeo said. Every time anyone drives down Route 322 near his home, they should think of Trooper Williams and how many lives he touched.
The bill doesnt specify the exact section of the pike to be named for Williams.
That bill also was recently released by the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee.
If there was a fire or a car accident in Atlantic County, Swartz was likely there with his camera. Right behind him was Joy with their three sons. He built a darkroom in the basement of his home and police departments throughout the county called him to photograph their crime scenes.
"He was red all the way through," said Vince Jones, director of Atlantic County Emergency Management. "We're never ever going to have someone again who did what he did."
And when he wasnt working or at a scene Swartz was shooting weddings, eighth-grade graduations and more.
Swartzs dedication to public service didnt end there. He visited schools to explain fire safety and became well known for a model train set he built in his basement. Swartzs son Harold Jr. recalled coming home and seeing a line of people on his basement steps, waiting to see his fathers train show.
He felt that it was important to keep this type of history alive, he said.
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Scallops caught by boats based in southern Cape May County may end up on your plate at a local restaurant, or in the frozen-foods section of a Wal-Mart or Costco, or even in foreign countries such as France.
But before the delicious white mollusks end up frozen in a chain store or fresh at a restaurant, commercial fishermen have to scrape them from the bottom of the ocean floor.
Its a fairly lucrative business that fuels a commercial fishing industry worth tens of millions of dollars each year. But the job takes an emotional toll on the fishermen who must leave their families for up to two weeks at a time to go to sea.
Tom McNulty Jr.s wife, Mandy, gave birth Feb. 16 to a daughter. Zoe McNulty was born at 7 pounds, 12 ounces, the proud father announced recently. But with scallop season quickly approaching, hes going to have to leave them to go make a living.
Im not looking forward to that day when I have to leave, said McNulty, 35, of Middle Township, who captains two scallop boats and also has a 6-year-old son. You cant wait to come back and see your family.
Its hard on your family, he added. You miss birthdays. You miss graduations.
Mandy McNulty, 32, says this year it will be harder for her husband to leave because of the new baby. She said the family sometimes keeps count on a chalkboard of the days until her husband rolls back into the docks.
Being married to a commercial fisherman isnt the easiest job. In addition to taking care of the family, you have to try not to worry about whats going on at sea, she said.
You definitely have to be very independent and strong, Mandy McNulty said. I would drive myself literally insane if I constantly worried about him.
David Wiscott, captain of the Susan L fishing boat, said his wife compares it to being married to a member of the military.
It takes a very special woman to be married to a fisherman, said the 59-year-old from Lower Township.
Wiscott, who remembers making his first commercial trip the same year Elvis Presley died, in 1977, didnt get to see his youngest son until 10 days after his wife gave birth.
Now, Wiscotts four adult sons, including the youngest, are involved in the commercial fishing industry. And, with statistics from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration showing scallop prices up 87 percent from 2009 to 2015, the future is looking bright.
In 2015, the combined port of Cape May and Wildwood brought in $71.6 million, making it the ninth biggest port in the nation and second on the East Coast in terms of dollars, according to the most recent NOAA data.
It wasnt always so profitable.
Erling Berg, 78, of Cape May, remembers selling scallops for 28 cents a pound when he entered the business in the 1950s.
There was a time when you could barely give them away, said Berg, who took his last commercial fishing trip about 25 years ago. I never thought Id see a day when it would evolve to where it is now.
In fact, the market was so poor that Berg said he and other fishermen used part of their proceeds from fishing to buy advertisements in a popular magazine promoting scallops as a food source.
Perhaps the awareness campaign paid off. Today, scallops are sought after by seafood-lovers and prices range from $10 to $17 a pound, according to the most recent NOAA trends.
Being mainly in the scallop business, we had a good season, said Keith Laudeman, president of Cold Spring Fish and Supply Co., a major seafood supply company that includes the adjoining Lobster House restaurant.
Laudeman is the second link in the chain, after Wiscott, McNulty and other fishermen.
Hes a wholesaler who buys scallops, flounder, squid, sea bass and other species, and sells to buyers in New York and Philadelphia who either sell it whole or process it. A lot of the scallops also go to New Bedford, Massachusetts, where processors size and freeze them, Laudeman added.
However, before the scallops are shipped off, commercial fishermen have to retrieve them, which is neither an easy nor cheap endeavor.
Preparing for a trip includes fixing the gear from the previous trip, changing the boats oil and stocking up on 25 to 30 tons of ice, 16,000 gallons of fuel and $3,500 in groceries, McNulty said.
These are our moneymakers, so we have to take care of them, he said, referring to his two scallop boats.
McNulty estimates he puts in $30,000 a trip before the boat leaves the dock. Hes responsible for covering that amount and making a profit for the six other members of his crew.
Thats where the stress comes for me up here, said McNulty, speaking from the bridge of one of his boats.
During a scallop trip, Wiscott said the Susan L will stay 30 to 60 miles offshore and travel up and down the coast between Virginia and the Canada-U.S. border.
McNulty said he works 16 hours a day on the boat, while his crew members usually work 12. He said it takes a lot of mental toughness to stand for that long shucking scallops.
If you get five hours of sleep, youre doing pretty good, he added. Were not here to hang out. Were out here to work and make money.
Wiscott said, for a captain, its really a 24-hour job. If someone gets hurt or the equipment gets messed up, crew members come knocking at his door.
Its the hardest job youve ever done in your life, he said. Its very physically demanding.
It can be dangerous, too, especially during storms. Though he didnt want to elaborate, McNulty said hes been on two boats that sunk, and Wiscott said hes been out in storms when other fishing vessels sank or disappeared.
Ive been in a few storms I wish I was never in, Wiscott said. Today, we dont work that kind of weather because of the regulations on how many days a year you can fish for scallops (about 60 days based on time and poundage regulations, according to Wiscott).
In 2015, 23 people died in fishing and fishing-related industries, corresponding to a fatality rate of 54.8 per 100,000 full-time workers second only to logging according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The fatality rate across all industries was 3.4.
I cant be naive and say that statistic is bullcrap, McNulty said, acknowledging the danger. We do everything in our power to make it as safe as we can.
And, if it all goes right, a scallop trip can pay off.
A good 10-day trip in the summer, Wiscott said, will net him and his crew 30,000 pounds of scallops, which he can sell to Laudeman for the going rate.
Right now, its on the positive side, Wiscott added. There were some years we didnt make very much money.
The money might be good, but commercial fishermen still need to have a passion for what theyre doing, according to Wiscott and McNulty.
Wiscott started in the scallop industry as a mate on Bergs boat in the 1970s. Even now, with a bad back from decades on the water, Wiscott said he still looks forward to embarking on another trip.
You got to love your job, he said. I got 40 years, and I still love doing it.
McNulty knew he wanted to be a fisherman from a young age, after spending his childhood on his familys clam boats.
When I finished high school, I started going out on boats more seriously, he said And I knew thats what I wanted to do.
If I didnt have this and I had to bang nails or something, Id be lost, McNulty added.
ATLANTIC CITY Hard Rock Internationals purchase of Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort could give the company a foot in the door for a North Jersey casino.
Hard Rock still wants to build a $1 billion casino just outside New York City, the companys CEO told The Associated Press on Thursday.
And political analysts noted an Atlantic City casino could give Hard Rock favorable consideration for a gaming license in North Jersey if casinos outside Atlantic City are allowed.
Hard Rock International CEO Jim Allen said his company remains committed to its plan to build a casino at the Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford, if voters change the law to allow it.
We own 25 percent of the Meadowlands (track), and we are 100 percent still on board to do that project at the Meadowlands, Allen said.
A group of investors led by Hard Rock bought the Taj from billionaire Carl Icahn on Wednesday. The group plans to spend $300 million on a purchase and renovation project to the reopen the casino, which closed Oct. 10.
Brigid Harrison, political science professor at Montclair State University, said the inclusion of Hard Rock in the deal creates six degrees of separation for Jeff Gural, the Meadowlands Racetrack owner who wanted a Hard Rock casino in North Jersey.
Harrison noted the bill creating the ballot question for North Jersey casinos overwhelmingly rejected by voters in November included language that gave favorable gaming license consideration to entities that already operated casinos in Atlantic City.
It would seem to me that this deal benefits not only Atlantic City in terms of the development of the Hard Rock but also has the eventual potential to help Gural in his pursuit of an additional casino in the Meadowlands, she said. Its a foot in the door for Hard Rock.
Hard Rock had partnered with Gural to propose a casino resort just outside New York City that analysts predict could become one of the most successful casinos in the nation at least until New York City allows one or more casinos to open nearby.
But before that happens, New Jersey would have to change a law that restricts casinos to Atlantic City. A statewide referendum on it last November was rejected by more than 80 percent of voters, and it cannot be reconsidered for at least two years.
Given the way the vote transpired, Harrison said the Legislature could attempt to expand gaming on its own, and perhaps not even subject it to a public vote.
Gural said Hard Rocks purchase of the Taj Mahal could boost the duos chances for a Meadowlands casino.
I think it can only help us down the road at the Meadowlands because I am sure the politicians and local leaders are appreciative that Hard Rock stepped up to buy (the Taj Mahal) and reopen it as opposed to leaving it closed or tearing it down, Gural told the AP on Thursday.
But while a North Jersey casino for Hard Rock could still be in the cards, Assemblyman Chris Brown said the November ballot questions defeat played a key role in Hard Rock coming to Atlantic City. If opponents of North Jersey casinos didnt succeed, Hard Rock wouldnt have bought the Taj, Brown said.
By standing up for working families and winning the fight to stop North Jersey casinos, we paved the way for Hard Rock to cancel its plans to build a casino in the Meadowlands and buy the Taj Mahal, providing 3,000 jobs for local families and breathe new life into Atlantic City, said Brown, R-Atlantic.
The Associated Press and Staff Writer Christian Hetrick contributed to this report.
Stop wasteful politicians
Whats wrong with America can be summed up in one word: politicians. Local, state, federal, Democratic and Republican politicians have one thing in common they are not looking out for the taxpayers who trusted them to do the right thing.
New Jersey is a perfect example of how politicians have wasted billions of dollars on things that dont work. Where are all the billions of tax dollars that Atlantic City has generated over the years? It certainly has not been reinvested back into the city in the right way.
Most of the money has been wasted on some politicians pet project that either has failed or has no benefit to the taxpayer who paid for it.
Payers of property taxes or gasoline taxes should ask themselves a question: Where is all that tax money going and what is it being spent on? I bet they wont like the answer.
The problem can be fixed very easily. First write letters and tell them to straighten out and stop wasting everyones hard-eared money. If that does not work, vote them out regardless of who they are or how long they have been in office. And if their replacement does not listen, vote them out too.
People should have a say on how their money is spent.
Wayne Williams
Seaville
Campus riots misdirected
There were some incidents recently to be less than proud of on the nations university campuses.
At Berkeley, that bastion of free speech and personal freedom, students rioted, shutting down the campus in order to silence a speaker with whom they disagreed. At New York University, students stormed the administration building, rioting at the prospect of a libertarian speaker being heard on campus. Seems to me, students would be better served storming the bursars office in protest of the $60,000-plus it costs annually to attend these universities.
And NYU has one of the worst ratios of starting salaries for graduates to tuition paid. Reducing a potential lifetime of student debt seems like the larger issue.
Jeffrey Glenn Sr.
Seaville
Flynn as reality show
Is this a new reality show? Youre resigned.
Starring Michael Flynn, directed by Vice President Mike Pence, executive producer President Donald Trump, sponsored by taxpayers of the United States. In this episode, it has been reported that the general may have broken a law by speaking to the Russian ambassador before taking office as national security adviser.
I hope this resignation wasnt a kind of cop-a-plea agreement. Although I dont wish for Flynn to suffer any punishment, I believe the sponsors of his episode deserve the full story.
Allen Feld
Ventnor
Silent majority for Trump
Regarding the Feb. 20 commentary by Jeff Bust, A deplorable is happier by the day that he voted for Trump:
Well said! The silent majority has spoken and that is why Donald Trump is the president. How about everyone gives him respect and lets him do his job?
Kara Sprigg
Egg Harbor Township
Opioid awareness needed
Heroin overdose is a serious growing problem among young adults nationwide. According to a 2016 New York Times analysis of death certificates, drug overdoses are driving up the death rate of young white adults in the United States to levels not seen since during the AIDS epidemic more than two decades ago.
Experts believe that the increase in heroin use among teens and young adults coincides with an extreme rise in the use of prescription painkiller medications. Research shows that these pills are the leading cause of the growing problem and they are readily available on the streets.
More must be done to make communities aware of the types and brands of drugs that are opioids. There should be programs to educate families on the signs and symptoms of opioid use and potential overdose.
Recently, Gov. Chris Christie created an addiction task force website, www.reachnj.gov. This website offers a help line and facilities where an addict can go to receive treatment. This is a positive step in increasing awareness of the problem.
Arthur Statmore
Barnegat
Environment attacked
While we are bombarded daily with fake news and President Trump tweets, the Republican Congress is quietly in the process of destroying the environment through the passage of the regulatory accountability act. Maybe this innocuously titled bill would have the potential to eliminate laws such as the Clean Air Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act and the recently passed Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act.
The environment, which is vital to both the economy and recreation, is currently under attack without any public discourse.
Charles Levine
Linwood
WARETOWN U.S. Rep. Tom MacArthur will meet with constituents in a town-hall session Monday as Republican lawmakers across the country face angry crowds at similar events.
MacArthur, a Republican whose 3rd Congressional District represents most of Burlington and part of Ocean counties, will hold the event at 6:30 p.m. at Waretown Volunteer Fire Company Station 36, 117 Wells Mills Road in Ocean Township.
The meeting comes as Republican lawmakers face backlash from constituents over proposals from President Donald Trump and efforts by Congress to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
Last month, MacArthur chose to hold a telephone town hall instead of an in-person event, saying he didnt want to be baited into having an event that some outside group can just make a spectacle out of, according to the Asbury Park Press.
Republican Rep. Leonard Lance, who represents northern-central New Jerseys 7th District, recently held a packed and rowdy town hall at which the constituents loudest message was to push back against Trump.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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.
St. Patrick's Day is in two weeks, but the celebration really kicks off this weekend with a parade on Staten Island, and two in Queens!
The first parade is the annual Queens County St. Patrick's Day Parade in the Rockaways on Saturday, March 3rd. The parade starts at 1 p.m. and ends at 5 p.m., and even though a lot of major public officials attend (last year, Mayor de Blasio and Public Advocate James were there), it still has a small town feel, thanks to the many lawn parties along the way. Here are the street closures:
Formation:
- Newport Avenue between Beach 130th Street and Beach 129th Street
- Beach 129th Street between Newport Avenue and Rockaway Beach Boulevard
-Rockaway Beach Boulevard between Beach 130th Street and Beach 129th Street
Route:
- Newport Avenue between Beach 129th Street and Beach 116th Street
- Beach 116th Street between Newport Avenue and Rockaway Beach Boulevard Rockaway
- Beach Boulevard between Beach 116th Street and Beach 102nd Street
Dispersal:
- Beach 102nd Street between Rockaway Freeway and Rockaway Beach Boulevard
- Rockaway Beach Boulevard between Beach 102nd Street and Beach 99th Street
Closure:
-Same as location
Mayor de Blasio at last year's Rockaway parade. (Scott Lynch/Gothamist)
On Sunday, there are two parades: First it's the Richmond County St. Patrick's Day Parade on Staten Island at noon. Mayor de Blasio won't be attending, but that's nothing newthe Staten Island Advance reports, "This will be the fourth year in a row de Blasio hasn't attended the Staten Island St. Patrick's Parade. The last three times, the mayor boycotted the parade for not being inclusive. The mayor's office wouldn't say if de Blasio would have chosen to boycott the event again if he didn't have 'scheduling conflicts.'" Here are details on where the Richmond County parade will be:
Formation:
- Hart Boulevard between Forest Avenue and Revere Street
Route:
- Forest Avenue between Hart Boulevard and Jewett Avenue
Dispersal:
- Forest Avenue between Jewett Avenue and Ordell Avenue
Closure:
- Same as location
(Scott Lynch/Gothamist)
Speaking of inclusiveness, the St. Patrick's Day for All parade in Queens, which prides itself for being welcome to all to "celebrate Irish heritage and culture regardless of race, gender, creed or sexual orientation," is at 1 p.m. on Sunday.
Formation:
- 43rd Street between Skillman Avenue and Barnett Avenue
Route/Dispersal:
- Skillman Avenue between 43rd Street and 56th Street
- 56th Street between Skillman Avenue and Woodside Avenue
- Woodside Avenue between 56th Street and 61st Street
Closure:
Same as location
A 37-year-old man from New Paltz, New York was arrested during a biannual Immigration and Customs Enforcement check in Manhattan on Tuesday, according to his family. Joel Guerrero, who immigrated to the country legally, was reportedly arrested on the grounds that he had missed a January 2011 court date, following a prior misdemeanor marijuana possession conviction. He now faces the possibility of deportation. [See below for update: According to ICE, the conviction was a felony for intent to sell or distribute.]
Guerrero, who works in construction, attended the check-in with his new wife, Jessica Guerrero, who is six months pregnant. His family says that he was detained on the spot, after multiple years of check-ins without incident.
Guerrero with Jessica (courtesy family).
"He was going in for a routine check-in," Guerrero's brother, Edward, told Gothamist on Friday. Edward lives in the Bronx, and rushed to the ICE offices in Federal Plaza on Tuesday. "They asked [Jessica] to take his wedding ring, and they allowed him to say 'bye,' and then they took him," he recalled.
"He works five days a week, sometimes seven days a week, in preparation for his newborn baby," Edward added. "So the guy is really making strides, doing the right moves, working hard."
Guerrero has a lawyer, according to his family, who has filed for an emergency deportation stay.
He is currently being held without bail at the Hudson County Correctional Facility in Kearny, New Jersey, according to the facility's automated records service.
A single marijuana conviction qualifies a legal permanent resident for deportation. According to a recent Human Rights Watch report, 34,337 people whose top conviction was marijuana possession were deported between fiscal years 2007 and 2012. Low-level convictions were classified as low priority, though, under Department of Homeland Security guidelines released during Obama's second term.
According to Edward, Guerrero received the marijuana conviction nearly a decade ago, and was later detained returning from a vacation in the Dominican Republic.
"Long story short, he got an immigration lawyer, and it's been going on for years," Edward said. "The judge... allowed him to report every six months to the ICE office. He was doing that faithfully, and the last time he was just taken."
According to ICE (see update below), Guerrero was issued a final order of removal on January 6, 2011 (apparently the missed court date). While his family describes him as green card holder, that status is revoked when a final order of removal is issued.
Regardless of Guerrero's current status, this week's meeting marked a stark shift in enforcement. "Up until recently ICE has been allowing some individuals who have prior orders of removal to remain in the country because of some sympathetic fact or factor in their cases," said Ward Oliver, supervising attorney for the Immigration Law Unit at the Legal Aid Society. "Given Trump's executives orders, it is hard to say what, if any, discretion ICE will be exercising in the future."
"I said to the [ICE] officer, 'why is this happening' and he said to me, 'the Trump administration is telling us to enforce everything,'" Jessica told ThinkProgress this week. "He said to me, 'this is because we're told now that we can enforce these orders.'"
The New Paltz Town Council sent a letter to the Department of Justice on Thursday, on Guerrero's behalf. "We believe that punishments should fit the crime and we respectfully ask that you do not allow this incident to tear apart a family," it states.
Jessica told the outlet Mid-Hudson News that if Guerrero is deported, she will "absolutely" go with him.
"He is my husband," she said. "We are having a child together. This is my life. It's not what I want but I couldn't be apart from him."
Originally from the Dominican Republic, Guerrero immigrated to the United States legally in 1997, when he was 17 years old.
"My brother doesn't know anyone in the DR. He was a kid when he came here," Edward, a green card holder, said. "I also made mistakes when I was younger. Everyone does. I just didn't get caught."
"I do understand there are people out there who deserve to be removed from the country," Edward added. "But if you start building a life and you have a family that loves youunder this new administration, it doesn't matter who you are. It doesn't matter if you stole a piece of candy in the store, you get deported."
[Update 3/4]: ICE spokeswoman Rachael Long Yow said in a statement that Guerrero has a felony conviction for possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a schedule VI controlled substance (marijuana or a synthetic equivalent). Also, that he is subject to a final order of removal issued on January 6, 2011. Guerrero's family counters that Guerrero was awarded clemency, his charge downgraded to a misdemeanor. We will update with any additional information.
DUBLIN, Mar 03, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Africa Tire Market Forecast & Opportunities, 2012-2022" report to their offering.
The tire market in Africa is projected to surpass $8 billion by 2022. Replacement tires accounted for the majority share in Africa tire market over the past few years, and the same trend is anticipated to continue in the coming years as well. During 2012- 2016, Africa tire market was dominated by passenger car tire segment, which accounted for a market share of over 50% in 2016.
Tire market in Africa grew at a moderate pace over the past few years, owing to rising passenger car and commercial vehicles sales, coupled with expanding replacement tire market. Moreover, increasing purchasing power and GDP per capita across the major African economies were identified to be the other predominant factors boosting tire sales in the region during 2012-2016.
Africa tire market is majorly import driven, and consequently, expanding distributor and dealer network is emerging as a critical factor for boosting tire sales in a specific country. Furthermore, increasing tire radialization, growing demand for Chinese tires and proliferation of used car market are anticipated to drive demand for tires in Africa during 2012-2022.
LCV segment has emerged as the second largest tire segment over the last five years, followed by M&HCV, two wheelers and OTR tire segments. and the segment is projected to continue dominating the market through 2022. South Africa, Algeria, Egypt, Nigeria and Libya are the top 5 tire markets in Africa, and these 5 countries grabbed a cumulative market share of over 70% in Africa tire market in 2016.
Why You Should Buy This Report?
To gain an in-depth understanding of tire market in Africa .
. To identify the on-going trends and segment wise anticipated growth in the coming years.
To help industry consultants, tire companies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies.
To obtain research based business decision and add weight to presentations and marketing material.
To gain competitive knowledge of leading players.
To avail of 10% customization in the report without any extra charges and get research data or trends added in the report as per the buyer's specific needs.
Companies Mentioned
Alliance Tire Company Ltd.
Apollo Tyres Ltd.
Balkrishna Industries Ltd.
Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE
CEAT Limited
Goodyear Middle East FZE
Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Co., Ltd.
Hankook Tire Co. Ltd.
Horizon Addis Tyre S.C .
. MRF Limited
Michelin AIM FZE
Pirelli Tyre(Suisse) SA Middle East Branch
Sameer Africa Ltd.
Sumitomo Rubber Middle East FZE
The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
Triangle Tyre Co. Ltd.
Key Topics Covered:
1. Product Overview
2. Research Methodology
3. Analyst View
4. Africa Tire Market Outlook
5. South Africa Tire Market Outlook
6. Algeria Tire Market Outlook
7. Egypt Tire Market Outlook
8. Nigeria Tire Market Outlook
9. Libya Tire Market Outlook
10. Kenya Tire Market Outlook
11. Ethiopia Tire Market Outlook
12. Angola Tire Market Outlook
13. Zimbabwe Tire Market Outlook
14. Tanzania Tire Market Outlook
15. Sudan Tire Market Outlook
16. Eritrea Tire Market Outlook
17. Market Dynamics
18. Market Trends & Developments
19. Competitive Landscape
20. Strategic Recommendations
For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/fxpjk6/africa_tire
Media Contact:
Research and Markets
Laura Wood, Senior Manager
press@researchandmarkets.com
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SOURCE Research and Markets
It often seems like every week of the Trump administration is the craziest one, but this time we might actually have it. Jeff Sessions has recused himself from any investigations into his contact with the Russian ambassador to the United States, people are calling on Sessions to resign and even Chuck Schumer is owning him on Twitter. So, it's as good a time as ever to jump into some kind of activism against him.
People's March for Education Justice - NYC
Hoo boy, Saturday is going to be a busy day around Trump properties. In addition to the march against the Dakota Pipeline ending at Trump Tower, and the dueling pro-Trump and anti-Trump rallies going on, here's a march demanding that Andrew Cuomo give the state and city billions in promised education funding, end the state's reliance on testing and invest more in social workers and other support staff for schools statewide that will start at the Trump International Hotel. Keeping up pressure on Andrew Cuomo is a backdoor way of increasing pressure on Donald Trump, by reminding him to keep acting like a liberal in the run up to his probable run for presidency.
FREE, Saturday, March 4th, 9:30 a.m., Trump International Hotel and Tower, 1 Central Park West
NY Doesn't Welcome You
There's going to be a pro-Trump rally in front of Trump Tower this weekend. So, you can see where this is going, right? Yes, exactly, there's going to be a counter-demonstration against Trump supporters and against the president himself, reminding him that New York thinks he's the worst. Bring some signs telling him that his hometown doesn't want him around, and maybe if enough people show up he'll just decide to go anywhere else in the future.
FREE, Saturday, March 4th, 11:30 a.m., Corner of East 53rd Street and 5th Avenue
Education! Outreach! Action! Trainings hosted by #TimetoResist
Oh hey, it's a good old fashioned teach-in! Whether you want to learn what your rights are with regards to protests, how to creatively get your message across, how to communicate with people you're trying to persuade, how to get cyber secured or just how to defend yourself, you'll have plenty of opportunities to learn from smart accomplished people.
FREE, Saturday, March 4th, noon, Progress High School For Professional Careers, 850 Grand Street
March 4th for Standing Rock
The Water Protecters' camp at Standing Rock may be gone, but since the Dakota Access Pipeline project was revived by the Trump administration, the fight against it will continue. A week before a mass nationwide action against the pipeline, the city will host a rally and march from the New York Public Library to Trump Tower in support of the Standing Rock Sioux and their right to clean water.
FREE, Saturday, March 4th, 1 p.m., New York Public Library
Fundraiser for Planned Parenthood of Indiana & Kentucky
Here in New York, we're at least doing kind of alright as far as women's health and a woman's right to choose are concerned (we could be doing much better!). So, here's a chance to help out Planned Parenthood in states whose leadership is interested in controlling women's lives through the restriction of what they can do with their bodies. A $20 donation will get you a custom sketch from fashion illustrator Jennifer Lilya, but that's not all! There'll also be a raffle with prizes like tickets to Avenue Q, a private yoga session, a variety pack of vegan jerky and much more. Plus, importantly, there will be alcohol.
$20, Saturday, March 4th, 2 p.m., Precious Metal, 143 Troutman Street
Rapid Response Network: Open House for Crown Heights/ Bed Stuy
If you find yourself trusting the state less and less, here's a chance to help build a support network for vulnerable people that doesn't rely on its institutions. Today's meeting will focus on how to build a Crown Heights and Bed-Stuy network of "rapid responders," people who are building a network of support personnel to help people with mental health crises, basic first aid, defense against Immigration ICE raids, hate attacks, and participate in copwatching.
FREE, Saturday, March 4th, 2 p.m., HappyLucky no.1, 734 Nostrand Avenue
Building Resistance Propaganda Party
Ain't no party like a propaganda party cause a propaganda party lives forever through its messaging. Sorry, sorry. Anyway, drop by the Interference Archive on Sunday for a chance to learn all about a bunch of groups who are fighting the Tump administration, and pick up their various propaganda in the form of stickers, flyers, buttons and other message-spreading goods. Maybe zines? Probably at least one organization will have a zine.
FREE, Sunday, March 5th, noon, Interference Archive, 131 8th Street, Brooklyn
Sign Making 101: For Women's Strike
If you want to make your own propaganda instead of picking up stuff other people made, here's the place for you. Not only is this an opportunity to hang with people while you make signs for the Women's Strike, but an artist and designer will be on hand to show you how to make "inexpensive, durable, NYPD-compliant protest signs that get your message across." As someone whose terrible handwriting has made his protest signs look more comical than effective propaganda, this seems like a great service.
FREE, Sunday, March 5th, 1 p.m., 205 Hudson Street, 2nd Floor
#NotInOurCity peaceful vigil against attacks on JCCs
An arrest was made for a handful of the bomb threats called in to JCCs across the country, but keep in mind this instance was seen as a copycat crime, there are still almost 100 unsolved cases and there are also the instances of Jewish cemetery desecration. So, come out and stand with the nation's Jewish community in a one hour silent vigil against hate.
FREE, Sunday, March 5th, 3 p.m., Grand Central Terminal
Unity In Diversity Rally
Things are heating up a bit in Queens, although it's not like that's unique to the borough. Still, it's as good a time as ever to stand with your fellow Queens residents in a show of unity and a defense of the borough's diversity. Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and a number of other elected officials, community and religious leaders and residents will gather together for a reminder that the diverse mix of traditions in the borough help make it a stronger place.
FREE, Sunday, March 5th, 4 p.m., Queens Borough Hall, 120-55 Queens Boulevard
How The Left Can Win Elections
Protests are fun and you can meet some cool people and also get some exercise if it's part of a long march. But! Don't forget that the ultimate goal is to actually win some elections and exercise political power. How do you do that though? Well, maybe Zak Wear of the Richmond Progressive Alliance can tell you a thing or two about that, since this event is literally called "How The Left Can Win Elections."
FREE. Sunday, March 5th, 5 p.m., Starr Bar, 214 Starr Street, Brooklyn
Womens Strikes: Past, Present, and Future
If you can't make the other Women's Strike planning and information day, or you just want to stay involved, here's another chance for you. This evening's meeting will focus on the history of women's strikes worldwide in order to learn from them, a group chat about the best ways to accomplish the goals of the upcoming strike, and some time to make signs for next Wednesday's strike.
FREE, Sunday, March 5th, 6 p.m., Mayday Space, 176 St. Nicholas Avenue
LONDON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management UK & Europe is pleased to announce the acquisition of client portfolios currently managed by Duncan Lawrie Private Banking in the Isle of Man.
This transaction serves to bolster Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management's presence in the Isle of Man, and supports the firm's strategy of growing assets under management. At the end of its most recent fiscal quarter, Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management in the UK & Europe reported total assets under management of over 14 billion. The acquisition is expected to include more than 100 client portfolios, including those using discretionary investment management and execution-only stock broking services. No Duncan Lawrie staff will be moving to Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management as part of the deal.
The acquisition has been welcomed by Duncan Lawrie Private Banking, given the similarities in investment process and the dedication to client service shared by the two businesses.
Dermot Hamill, Head of Wealth Management for Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management, Isle of Man commented: "We are delighted to be announcing our acquisition of Duncan Lawrie's Isle of Man client portfolios. We look forward to welcoming our new clients on board and providing them with the exceptional quality of service and investment offerings that we are known for."
David Esfandi, Chief Executive of Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management in the UK & Europe concurred: "The acquisition of the Duncan Lawrie client portfolios on the Isle of Man is a great fit for our business, given our similar investment ethos and our synergies in client service. It is further proof of our wholehearted commitment to all the jurisdictions in which we operate. We have ambitious plans to grow our business and with a strong track record of meeting client needs and with our recent investment in technology and systems, we are well-placed to grow our client base and achieve our business objectives."
Deal Summary:
Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management is expected to acquire more than 100 client portfolios in its Isle of Man business, of which 62% will be discretionary and 38% execution only.
business, of which 62% will be discretionary and 38% execution only. This supports the firm's strategy to grow assets under management, which currently stand at over 14 billion in its UK & Europe wealth management operations.
wealth management operations. No Duncan Lawrie staff will transfer to Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management as part of the deal.
The acquisition is subject to approval from the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority.
About Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management:
Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management provides comprehensive wealth management solutions and brokerage services to individual investors, private clients, charities and intermediaries through a full suite of services tailored to the needs of clients in each of its markets. Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management has Investment Advisors (IAs) and professionals in Canada, the UK, Guernsey, Jersey, the Isle of Man and Australia. Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management is a division of Canaccord Genuity Group and operates in the UK & Europe as Canaccord Genuity Wealth Limited and Canaccord Genuity Wealth International Limited.
About Canaccord Genuity Group Inc.:
Through its principal subsidiaries, Canaccord Genuity Group Inc. (the 'Company') is a leading independent, full-service financial services firm, with operations in two principal segments of the securities industry: wealth management and capital markets. Since its establishment in 1950, the Company has been driven by an unwavering commitment to building lasting client relationships. We achieve this by generating value for our individual, institutional and corporate clients through comprehensive investment solutions, brokerage services and investment banking services. The Company has offices in 10 countries worldwide, including Wealth Management offices located in Canada, the UK, Guernsey, Jersey, the Isle of Man and Australia. Canaccord Genuity, the international capital markets division, operates in Canada, the US, the UK, France, Ireland, Hong Kong, China, Australia and Dubai. To us there are no foreign markets.[TM]
Canaccord Genuity Group Inc. is publicly traded under the symbol CF on the TSX.
For investor and media relations inquiries:
Christina Marinoff
Vice President, Investor Relations & Communications
Phone: +1-416-687-5507
Email: christina.marinoff@canaccord.com
http://www.canaccordgenuitygroup.com
SOURCE Canaccord Genuity Group Inc.
DUBLIN, Mar 03, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Colombia Tire Market Forecast & Opportunities, 2022" report to their offering.
The tire market in Colombia is anticipated to cross $1.5 billion by 2022. In terms of vehicle type, the tire market in Colombia has been segmented into Passenger Car (PC), Two-Wheeler (2W), Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV), Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicle (M&HCV), and Off-The-Road (OTR).
Expanding production of passenger cars and continuously expanding automobile fleet are some of the major factors aiding Colombia tire market. Moreover, increasing population, which stood at 48.22 million in 2015, coupled with growing urbanization, which was 76.4% of total population in 2015, is boosting the demand for automobiles in the country, consequently positively influencing the country's tire market.
Furthermore, rapidly expanding middle class population in Colombia is pushing the demand for automobiles, which, in turn, is generating huge demand for tires. Moreover, expanding fleet coupled with increasing investments in agriculture sector by public as well as private entities are also boosting the demand for tires in the country. Growing per capita income, expanding automotive fleet and launch of new vehicle models are some of the other major factors driving Colombia automotive industry, consequently propelling the demand for tire in the country.
Why You Should Buy This Report?
To gain an in-depth understanding of Colombia tire market.
tire market. To identify the on-going trends and anticipated growth in the next five years.
To help industry consultants, tire companies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies.
To obtain research based business decisions and add weight to presentations and marketing material.
To gain competitive knowledge of leading market players.
To avail of 10% customization in the report without any extra charges and get research data or trends added in the report as per the buyer's specific needs.
Companies Mentioned
Bridgestone De Colombia, S.A.S (Bsco)
Continental Tire Colombia S.A.S
Giti Tire Pte. Ltd.
Goodyear de Colombia SA
Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber CO.,LTD.
Hankook Tire Colombia Ltda.
Industria Colombiana de Llantas S.A.
Pirelli de Colombia SAS
Toyo Tire & Rubber Company
Triangle Tyre Co. Ltd.
Key Topics Covered:
1. Product Overview
2. Research Methodology
3. Analyst View
4. Colombia Tire Market Outlook
5. Colombia Passenger Car (PC) Tire Market Outlook
6. Colombia Two-Wheeler (2W) Tire Market Outlook
7. Colombia Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) Tire Market Outlook
8. Colombia Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicle (M&HCV) Tire Market Outlook
9. Colombia Off-the-Road (OTR) Tire Market Outlook
10. Market Dynamics
11. Market Trends & Developments
12. Import-Export Analysis
13. Policy & Regulatory Landscape
14. Colombia Economic Profile
15. Competitive Landscape
16. Strategic Recommendations
For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/2qhpmv/colombia_tire
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
LINKOPING, Sweden, Mar 03, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
International medical imaging IT and cybersecurity company Sectra (STO: SECT B) has signed a ten-year contract with Isala Hospital, in the Netherlands. The contract comprises Sectra's IT solution for reviewing diagnostic images. The solution enables physicians at Isala Hospital to access and review medical images from any of its two hospitals, regardless of where current and prior images were taken. The joint solution also enables the two sites to efficiently share resources.
Isala Hospital's two facilities are located in the Dutch cities Zwolle and Meppel, and Sectra's solution will replace the two imaging solutions that are currently used at the two sites. It will handle approximately 400,000 examinations each year.
"With this joint solution from Sectra, information will follow the patient instead of the other way around. Sectra's proven track record of extremely high system availability was another important aspect for us in the choice of vendor and is also key in delivering efficient healthcare," says Roel Venema, member of the board of directors at Isala Hospital.
Sectra Enterprise Image Management
The solution ordered by Isala Hospital is part of Sectra's complete enterprise imaging offering which is modular and supports the most image-intense departmentsradiology, pathology, cardiology and orthopaedics. Being built on the same technical platform, customers can easily extend a departmental solution to create a comprehensive VNA and enterprise image management solution without major investments or the replacement of existing components.
Meet Sectra at ECR 2017
Sectra's Enterprise Image Management solution will be showcased at booth #411 at ECR in Vienna, 2-5 March. Read more about Sectra at ECR and book a meeting at www.sectra.com/ecr.
For further information, please contact:
Dr. Torbjorn Kronander,
CEO and President Sectra AB,
Phone: 46 (0) 705-23-52-27
Marie Ekstrom Tragardh,
Executive Vice President Sectra AB and President Sectra Imaging IT Solutions,
Phone: 46 (0)708-23-56-10
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
http://news.cision.com/sectra/r/dutch-multi-site-hospital-invests-in-imaging-it-solution-from-sectra,c2203785
The following files are available for download:
http://news.cision.com/sectra/i/sectra-s-enterprise-image-management-solution-for-radiology,c2090112 Sectra's enterprise image management solution for radiology
SOURCE Sectra
Huaxi University Town will have a total area of 683 square feet. Nine universities have already settled in the town, which plans to house a total of twelve. The number of teachers and students in the town has already reached 150,000. In addition, backbone transportation networks currently cover an area of 9.65 square miles, and the town has witnessed US$4.65 billion worth of investment already made.
As part of a five-year blueprint, Huaxi University Town will explore a growth model that is based on the synergies between infrastructure, talent pools, big data and big ideas. Driven by innovation, Huaxi University Town will focus on setting up R&D centers, labs, and scientific institutes, as well as businesses in big data and healthcare.
Huaxi University Town was launched by Guian New Area to help fresh talents pave their career path and speed up the promoting of local small enterprises and innovative start-ups with full support. Huaxi University Town aims to form a vibrant ecosystem around universities, companies and the government to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Guian New Area won government approval to set up an innovation and entrepreneurship park in May, 2016, one of the first zones in the country to be authorized. The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Park is composed of two buildings with total construction area of about 430,556 square feet.
Nine intermediary service firms and six big data companies have settled in Building A, which has adopted a business pattern of integrating big data with services, cultural and creative industries, education, management and analysis. In Building B, the second and third floor is home to the university town's incubator base, which has attracted over 60 startups, while the fourth and fifth floors have lured five companies that integrate big data with healthcare.
Under the Huaxi project, promising startups have established partnerships and cooperation agreements with the local government and institutions of higher education.
ChinaDataPay.com
The company has already set up close partnership with agencies including Jiaotong University, Peking University and the China Smart Healthcare Industry Federation, and has built a team of 300+ to provide data pricing, asset management, security and other customized services.
Guian Big Data Service Co.
The company's business includes data collection, analysis, mining, and the development of data products. The company is currently developing a big data project with the Guizhou Supreme People's Court. The company's main products include financial big data platforms, investment research platforms and the CBN financial data terminal.
About Guian New Area
Guian New Area, the eighth national-level new area in China, shoulders three major responsibilities - be a key driver of economic growth in western China, break new ground in the opening of new markets, and set the standard for sound and vibrant eco-system zones.
Logo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/474352/GUIAN_NEW_AREA_Huaxi_Project.jpg
SOURCE Guian New Area
Hisense, the multinational consumer technology manufacturer and one of the largest television brands in the world, was phenomenal, ranking third in global shipments of LCD TVs and No.1 in the Chinese market, where Hisense has held that spot for 13 consecutive years. Hisense had 23.43 million Internet-TV users, and the number of daily active users only in China has reached 11 million in February. Hisense has already truly become the biggest Internet-TV platform in China.
Netflix is the content partner with Hisense TV in the US and its user activity ranks the top compared with other partners. The primary aim of Hisense was to enrich and differentiate the content and thereby increase the sales competitive power of Hisense TV.
Netflix, one of the American biggest streaming media operators, has a strict requirement for its certification on audiovisual effects, display technology and image data processing technology. Hisense is the only company that has received NRTV certification in China, winning the content partner Netflix.
Based on huge shipments of Hisense TV, Hisense has put the television content operation into its business. The company Juhaokan, which is an individual corporation owned by Hisense Group, took on the business section. Hisense will close the company's series A financing in 2017 by the shareholding structural reform. Setting up the American internet-TV operation center relates to its capital investment.
The complete set of law institutions of consumer protection and copyright protection of the United States will bring a huge challenge for Hisense.
Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/474388/Hisense.jpg
SOURCE Hisense
LONDON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
The Global Brands Magazine awards, among the world's most recognized branding awards, announced Institut Jantung Negara as the winner of 'Most Advanced Healthcare Brand in Malaysia for the year 2016'. The awards recognize the institute's excellence in setting a benchmark in offering medical expertise in cardiovascular and thoracic care.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160518/369255LOGO )
Global Brands Awards' honours hospitals that have set a benchmark for excellence and responded to changes quickly. The hospital was recognized as part of a study and was awarded for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance for cardiovascular and thoracic care. The data was collected and reviewed by an independent external agency to provide complete robustness to the study conducted.
Since its inception in 1992, IJN has been leading the way for cardiovascular healthcare in Malaysia. The institution has grown leaps and bounds over the last 25 years, with many accolades and awards under its belt. It also boasts of many firsts for the industry, be it locally or regionally, as it strives to be the best-of-the-best within the sector.
"We have made great stride as a relatively young organization along with our contributions to the healthcare sector, especially heart care in Malaysia. We are playing a role as a regional player in the field as well," says Dr. Mohd Azhari.
Jay Reddy, Head of Branding at Global Brands Magazine added, "While the award is designed to inspire better performance, we would like to congratulate Institut Jantung Negara for being pro-active in adapting new technology to deliver better care for patients and at the same time being consistent in delivering the best health care available to its clients. We wish the hospital all the best and more success in the near future."
About Global Brand Awards
Global Brands Awards was established with the aim of honouring excellence in performance and rewarding companies across different sectors. The award honors companies who have performed extraordinarily well in the field of finance, education, hospitality, automobiles, lifestyle, education, real estate and technology. The awards are given to acknowledge key players who strive for fineness & provide a platform for recognition. The award also aims to identify, create awareness about the significance of exceptional service delivery and reward their performance with the ultimate global recognition. More than 4000 Companies were evaluated as a part of the recent study conducted.
About Global Brands Magazine
Global Brands Magazine is the one of the world's best loved branding publication. A fully autonomous branding magazine, Global Brands Magazine represents an astute source of information from across the industry. The magazine provides the reader with up- to date news, reviews, opinions, polls on leading brands across the globe. The Magazine is head-quartered in United Kingdom. For More information please visit http://www.globalbrandsmagazine.com
About IJN
Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) was set up in 1992 and is dedicated to the management and treatment of heart diseases by providing cardiology, paediatric cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery services for adults and children.
Today, IJN is reckoned to be among the best medical centres for cardiovascular and thoracic care in Malaysia and the region. IJN has kept abreast with the latest medical advances, from handling a simple hole in the heart surgery to heart and lungs transplantations.
Media Contact:
Edwin Martin
Phone: +44-208-133-3927
SOURCE Global Brands Publications Limited
SINGAPORE, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Following the success of their Global Deep Learning Series, REWORK is pleased to announce its 11th Global Deep Learning Summit in Singapore. Taking place on 27-28 April 2017, it will be the second edition held in Asia. The event will host 30 extraordinary speakers, amongst whom are representatives from Google, P&G, DeepMind and Facebook. REWORK will bring together more than 200 AI pioneers, leading technologists and innovators to explore the latest advancements in the deep learning.
Topics covered include:
Computer Vision
Deep Learning Algorithms
Predictive Intelligence
Autonomous Vehicles
Natural Language Understanding
AI for Business Efficiency
Deep Learning for Enterprise
Why You Should Attend
The two-day summit presents a unique networking opportunity with business leaders, influential academics and revolutionary startups. Ian Goodfellow, Research Scientist from OpenAI, spoke on his previous experience from the Deep Learning Summit San Francisco 2017, "I had the opportunity to meet with the head of a prominent venture capital firm and found startups that would like me as their technical advisor. As a speaker, I brought my research to a wider audience. It was a great event!". Each participant - speaker, attendee or panellist, brings invaluable insight to the summit and takes away much more.
Held concurrently will be the Deep Learning in Finance Summit. Notable speakers in attendance are representatives from HSBC, BNP Paribas, AXA, NTUC Income and Societe Generale. Topics on the agenda will include financial forecasting, algorithmic trading, and robo-advisors.
Tickets and Registration
Early Bird passes for both events are on sale and available until Friday, 10th March. Attendees also gain access to post-event content: presentation slides, video recordings and exclusive interviews on REWORK's dedicated video hub. Can't attend? On-demand content is also available.
Register or find out more here for the Deep Learning Summit, Singapore or here for the Deep Learning in Finance Summit, Singapore. For further enquiries, please email hello@re-work.co .
REWORK is an event organising company that brings together breakthrough technology, cutting-edge science and innovative entrepreneurship which shape the future of business and society. REWORK events showcase opportunities of exponentially accelerating technologies to positively disrupt the world. Regular attendees at REWORK summits include: Apple, Microsoft, Google, Samsung, Amazon, and Baidu. Find out more about their events here or follow them on Twitter at @teamrework and @reworkdl.
Contact
Chloe Pang
Business Development
+44-203-289-1104
cpang@re-work.co
SOURCE REWORK
DUBLIN, Mar 03, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Saudi Arabia Women Cosmetics Market 2012-2022" report to their offering.
The women cosmetics market in Saudi Arabia is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 11% during 2017-2022, on account of growing trend of halal cosmetics, booming retail industry and easy availability of cosmetics on online channels.
Cosmetic products are no more restricted to being used on special occasions, but are gaining prominence as part of women's daily regimen. In Saudi Arabia, women's cosmetic products are being widely adopted, and have emerged as high utility products, especially over the last few years. Increasing desire among Saudi Arabian women to look alluring is expected to aid the country's women cosmetics market over the next five years.
Women in the country are becoming more open to trying new products, which help them in maintaining a youthful and elegant look. In addition to conventional cosmetics, several new products are being introduced in the Saudi Arabian market to help women in protecting their skin from pollution and sun damage. Moreover, backed by growing trend of workplace gender equality in the country, the women workforce is continuously expanding, which in turn, is aiding Saudi Arabia women cosmetics market. Furthermore, factors such as increasing urbanization, growing per capita spending on cosmetics, continuous product innovations and aggressive marketing by companies as well as online retailers are expected to positively influence Saudi Arabia women cosmetics market during forecast period.
Companies Mentioned
Avon Saudi Arabia
Beiersdorf AG
Clara International Beauty Group
Inika
L'Oreal Saudi Arabia
Louis Vuitton Saudi Arabia
OnePure, LLC
Procter & Gamble
Saaf Skincare
Unilever Saudi Arabia
Key Topics Covered:
1. Product Overview
2. Research Methodology
3. Analyst View
4. Global Women Cosmetics Market Overview
5. Saudi Arabia Women Cosmetics Market Outlook
6. Saudi Arabia Women Fragrances Market Outlook
7. Saudi Arabia Women Skin Care Cosmetics Market Outlook
8. Saudi Arabia Women Color Cosmetics Market Outlook
9. Saudi Arabia Other Women Cosmetics Market Outlook
10. Supply Chain Analysis
11. Porter's Five Forces Analysis
12. Import & Export Analysis
13. Market Dynamics
14. Market Trends & Developments
15. Policy & Regulatory Landscape
16. Saudi Arabia Economic Profile
17. Competitive Landscape
18. Strategic Recommendations
For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/cdq6gf/saudi_arabia
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
DUBLIN, Mar 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Tomato Processing Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2017 - 2022" report to their offering.
Tomato Processing Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2017-2022, has segmented the market on the basis of product type. Currently, sauces account for nearly a third of the total processed tomato consumption.
The global tomato processing market reached a volume of around 34 Million Tons in 2016. A number of factors are currently driving the growth of this market. These include changing food habits, rising incomes, urbanisation, emerging markets, growing consumption of fast foods especially by youngsters, etc.
Sauces are followed by pastes, canned tomatoes, ketchups and juices. The report has also analysed the market on the basis of key regions.
The United States currently represents the world's biggest tomato processor accounting for more than one third of the total global tomatoes processed.
Other major countries include - Italy, China, Turkey, Iran, Spain and Brazil. The report has also analysed the competitive landscape of the market.
Some of the key players currently operating in this market include - Morning Star, Tunhe, Chalkis, Ingomar Packing and JG Boswell.
The report provides a techno-commercial roadmap for setting up a tomato processing plant.
Key Topics Covered:
1 Preface
2 Research Methodology
3 Executive Summary
4 Introduction
5 Global Tomato Industry
6 Global Tomato Processing Industry
7 Performance of Key Regions
8 Market by End-Use
9 Competitive Landscape
10 Tomato Paste and Tomato Sauce Manufacturing Process
11 Project Details, Requirements and Costs Involved
12 Loans and Financial Assistance
13 Project Economics
14 Key Player Profiles
Tunhe
Chalkis
Ingomar
JG Boswell
Conagra
Olam
Los Gatos
Haohan Gr
Campbell
For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/426h2b/tomato_processing
Media Contact:
Research and Markets
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
DUBLIN, Mar 03, 3017 /PRNewswire/ --
Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Trump's Impact on Future Business in the United States" report to their offering.
Donald Trump's ascendancy to President of the United States promises to bring big change for business. Controversial campaign rhetoric targeting topics as diverse as trade, deregulation, the environment, and healthcare coupled with Trump's long list of unconventional government appointees has created an environment of uncertainty. Citizens, businesses, and governments around the world are trying to separate the hyperbolic from the probable by asking what policies Trump will actually pursue and what preparations can be made.
Trump's Impact on Future Business in the United States helps provide clarity. This study examines how President Trump's top 10 policy areas will affect business and industries in the next 4 years. Policy areas include trade, immigration, tax reform, foreign policy and defense, deregulation, budget cuts, budget increases, healthcare, the Supreme Court, and wages and education. For each area, the study outlines Trump's campaign and current position, and provides a scenario of policy implementation. Discussions for each area highlight implications for business, as well as those industries (and in some cases, countries and citizen groups) most likely to win and lose.
Key questions addressed include:
- What are the economic, political, and social issues that will animate Trump's administration and what is the probability of Trump's administration being able to enact policy changes?
- How should business prepare for Trump's policy positions?
- Who stands to gain and lose the most from implementation of likely scenarios?
- What are the risks and opportunities that will arise as Trump's policies converge?
Key features include:
- Extensive research covering 10 policy areas central to the Trump campaign and administration
- Synthesis of research areas into the top 5 impacts for each area that business should be aware of
- Summary of 5 Mega Scenarios showcasing how the convergence of policies will define the United States in the near term-each scenario has a central motif, key characteristics, and strategic perspectives
Key topics include:
- Trade: the North American Free Trade Agreement, trade with China, the US-Korean trade agreement, the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership
- Immigration: Unauthorized immigration from Mexico, immigration from terror-prone nations, H-1B Visas
- Tax reform: Individual tax restructuring, corporate tax restructuring
- Foreign policy and defense: Russia reset, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, cyber terrorism
- Deregulation: Environmental deregulation, financial deregulation
- Budget cuts: The Penny Plan, environmental budget cuts
- Budget increases: Infrastructure spending, defense spending
- Healthcare: The Affordable Care Act, Medicare
- The Supreme Court: A conservative tilt
- Wages and education: Minimum wage, school choice, and Common Core
The study time frame is from 2017 to 2020
Key Topics Covered:
1. Executive Summary-Mega Scenarios and Top Impacts
2. Research Methodology, Objectives, and Definitions
3. Trump on Trade
4. Trump on Immigration
5. Trump on Tax Reform
6. Trump on Foreign Policy and Defense
7. Trump on Deregulation
8. Trump on Federal Budget Cuts
9. Trump on Federal Budget Increases
10. Trump on Healthcare
11. Trump on the Supreme Court
12. Trump on Wages and Education
13. The Last Word
For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/8r4ljx/trumps_impact_on
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
Aqua Dragons in Space, Newest Kickstarter Campaign, Will Raise Funds To Launch 13.8M Eggs Into Near Space & Package As Live Astro Pets For Kids
BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- World Alive's Aqua Dragons is an educational science kit that contains live aquatic pets that kids can bring to life and watch grow. Following great early success, the creators are excited to embark on an out-of-this-world experience and fly 13.8 million Aqua Dragons eggs on an unmanned flight into the outermost stratospheres of the planet. World Alive is looking to raise $50,000 to support its space mission and have already reached 50% of their goal on Kickstarter (http://kck.st/2lavHad).
Aqua Dragons in Space Live Astro Pets (PRNewsFoto/World Alive) Aqua Dragons in Space Live Astro Pets Collection (PRNewsFoto/World Alive)
Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/474346/World_Alive.jpg
Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/474347/World_Alive.jpg
"I have been in love with these crustaceous aquatic pets since I first received one 14 years ago, and I know that sending the Aqua Dragons into Space will make these little critters all the more interesting," says Amy Holden, founder, product innovator and developer of Aqua Dragons. "My hope is that children and their parents will be as fascinated with the Aqua Dragons in Space and as excited as I am about collaborating in creating the world's first out-of-this-world pets."
Aqua Dragons are a unique kind of crustacean called Artemia, that have a biological process called Diapause that allows them to hibernate, hatching once in contact with water. Hatching and growing Aqua Dragons helps children learn about caring for a living creature and being responsible as it pertains to feeding and how to treat live animals with respect instead of as a science experiment. Kids will also learn about science, anatomy, biology, marine biology and even history and geography through playtime with their Aqua Dragons.
The goal of the Kickstarter campaign is to raise $50,000 to launch a payload full of 13.8 million Aqua Dragons into Space, record video footage of the flight, and then package these Space eggs into a new range of Aqua Dragons kits known as Aqua Dragons Live Astro Pets. There are also higher-priced packages available that will allow you to send a personal belonging into Space with the eggs or even meet an astronaut!
For more information about World Alive's Aqua Dragons, visit www.aquadragons.net or connect with them on social media; Facebook @AquaDragonsWA, Twitter @AquaDragons and Instagram @AquaDragons.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Chelsea Kapotes
Southard Freeman Communications
ckapotes@southardfreeman.com
973-470-0400
SOURCE World Alive
NEW YORK, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- 1stdibs, the leading global marketplace for collectors and dealers of beautiful things, in partnership with Edward Tyler Nahem Fine Art is pleased to announce a curated exhibition of paintings by Erik Benson will be hosted exclusively at Todd Snyder Madison Park for Armory Week. The art will be exhibited from March 3 through March 17.
An urban boutique meets gentleman's general store, the location offers Todd Snyder apparel alongside curated selections from partners including 1stdibs, a perfect location to exhibit paintings such as Playground (Ailanthus Altissima), Terminal, Stacks (Golden Tower) and Untitled (Study for Asian Beetle). The store also features a curated assortment of standout gifts, art and furniture on a rotating basis, available for a limited time for purchase.
"Standouts among the curated selection of art you'll find on 1stdibs are the multi-layered paintings of Erik Benson, who explores the ways in which nature and the urban landscape interact and expresses this dynamic in his own distinctive style," said Anthony Barzilay Freund, Director of Fine Art at 1stdibs. "Todd Snyder's elegant flagship store filled with vintage furniture and, of course, his collection of modern-but-classic clothes and accessories is the perfect location to showcase Benson's paintings."
"There are some similarities between Erik's story and mine and so I feel an affinity towards him. We're both midwestern boys interested in architecture and design who came east to develop our artistic sensibilities," said Snyder. "In Erik's case, that meant earning his MFA in painting at RISD in Providence, and then settling in Brooklyn. His art feels very New York to me: that tension between the built-up and natural environment. His is a name to watch and I'm proud to champion it by hosting his work in our flagship store."
The artist's unusual process helps his ideas and imagery find synchronicity. Benson explains that he "builds paintings" by pouring acrylic paint onto sheets of glass. Once the paint has solidified and has gained its desired elasticity, Benson cuts various shapes using an X-Acto knife. He then peels the cut shapes from the sheet of glass and, using a method of collage-as-painting, arranges them onto the painted canvas to create a larger composition. Collaged constructions create a relationship between the visual information and the processes -- constructed images of an imagined environment reflect the process of construction and building that mimic the subject matter.
To view the new collection visit Todd Snyder Madison Park at 25 Madison Square North, on 26th Street in Manhattan or browse Edward Tyler Nahem's digital gallery at 1stdibs.com. For more information on 1stdibs' partnership with Todd Snyder, visit https://www.1stdibs.com/collections/todd-snyder/.
About 1stdibs
1stdibs is the world's leading online marketplace for rare and desirable objects. Founded in 2001 to bring the Paris flea markets online, today the website is the go-to source for those who share a passion for the most beautiful things on earth. By bringing together the best furniture, fine art, jewelry, and watch dealers from more than 600 cities around the world, 1stdibs offers an exclusive inventory not available anywhere else online.
About Todd Snyder
Iowa native Todd Snyder launched his eponymous menswear collection for Fall 2011. Inspired by Savile Row craftsmanship, military tailoring, and a distinct New York sensibility, the line has garnered wide critical and commercial praise in the US. Since his launch, Todd Snyder has been selected as one of GQ Magazine's Best New Designers in America (2012) and has been nominated three times for the CFDA Swarovski Menswear Award (2012, 2013, 2014). Snyder was selected as one of the 2013 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists and most recently nominated as a CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year, fashion's top honor. In 2015, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc acquired Todd Snyder and his premium collegiate apparel line, Tailgate. With four Tailgate stores opened across the country in 2016, Snyder now turns his attention to his New York based Todd Snyder store on Madison Square Park North.
About Erik Benson
Erik Benson received a BFA from Minneapolis College of Art and Design and an MFA from Rhode Island School of Design. His first exhibition with the gallery in 2010, Detouring, opened to critical acclaim after popular showings at The Armory Show and Art Basel Miami Beach. Edward Tyler Nahem Fine Art organized Erik Benson: All City in Madrid, in 2012, as well as Sleep Walking in 2013 and the most recent exhibition held in Autumn 2016, Stacks. Benson's work has been featured in many group exhibitions, including at Salon 94 and The Flag Art Foundation in New York City, the Neuberger Museum in Purchase, and the Mason Gallery at Rutgers University, among others. He participated in the Bronx Museum of Arts' Artist in the Marketplace program, and was awarded a New York Foundation for the Arts Painting Fellowship. Most recently, he was awarded the 2016 McKnight Foundation fellowship in painting, administered by the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, designed to identify and support outstanding mid-career Minnesota artists. Benson lives and works in Minnesota.
Media Contact
Tricia Nugent
[email protected]
SOURCE 1stdibs
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On March 2, 2017, an administrative law judge with the National Labor Relations Board ordered Sysco to begin bargaining with Teamsters Local 406 in Grand Rapids, Mich. after he found that the company threatened, intimidated and unlawfully punished workers during an organizing campaign in 2015.
The workers lost an election held May 7, 2015 by 11 votes. The administrative law judge found the evidence established that a majority of Sysco's Grand Rapids employees supported Local 406 prior to the election but Sysco's extensive unfair labor practices "were sufficiently severe so as to erode the majority support that the union had acquired." As a result, the judge issued an order directing Sysco to begin negotiating a contract with Local 406.
"This is great news for the Sysco workers who had to endure an unbelievable onslaught of threats and intimidation for exercising their federally protected right to organize," said Ellis Wood, Secretary-Treasurer and Principal Officer of Local 406. "I look forward to finally being able to negotiate a contract for the Sysco workers so that they can address the issues that are important to them."
The administrative law judge upheld the 79 unfair labor practice charges filed by Local 406, which included the company's threats to close the plant down if they organized, threats to impose more stringent work rules, threats of loss of seniority and the company reducing the hours of those who supported the union drive.
"The judge also ruled that it must reinstate a worker who was fired two years ago with full back pay and benefits, which will be in excess of $200,000," said Terry Hoogerhyde, Local 406 Recording Secretary and Business Agent.
"We are pleased that the administrative law judge recognized that Sysco went to great lengths to bully its workers in Grand Rapids," said Steve Vairma, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division. "It's time for Sysco to now bargain fairly and treat its workers with respect and dignity."
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters was founded in 1903 and represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, including more than 12,000 Sysco and US Foods workers. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.
Contact:
Galen Munroe, (202) 624-6904
[email protected]
SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters
Related Links
http://www.teamster.org
CHICAGO, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Advantage Futures hosts its annual Tax Strategies and Legal Structures Seminar on Monday, March 6, at their Chicago Loop office. The seminar, in its ninth consecutive year, is the most attended and requested edition of the Advantage Seminar Series.
This year's featured speakers are Phil Ryan, Certified Public Accountant and Partner at Ryan & Juraska, and Lance Zinman, Partner and Global Co-Chair of Financial Services at Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP. Ryan and Zinman address accounting, legal structures and tax issues facing financial service trading professionals.
Topics Include:
Tax Structure
LLC, Corporation, Partnership, Individual Account Structure Tax Treatment for U.S. vs. Non-U.S. Exchanges
Employee Compensation
Other Topics
"These professionals have decades of direct experience servicing futures traders. It is our honor to host experts who share valuable insights with our clients," said Advantage Futures CEO Joe Guinan.
Attendees have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with Ryan and Zinman after the presentation. A networking reception will follow.
If interested in attending the Tax Strategies and Legal Structures Seminar, contact a client representative at 312.800.7000 or [email protected] for more information.
Advantage Futures offers educational seminars focused on educating futures traders in topics ranging from macroeconomics to detailed technical analysis. Visit Advantage's Seminar Center (http://www.advantagefutures.com/education/seminars-webinars/) to view past seminars. Subscribe at [email protected] to receive email notification of upcoming seminars.
Highlights from the Seminar Series, industry news and market updates are regularly posted on Advantage's Facebook page, LinkedIn and Twitter (@FuturesNews). Follow us.
About Advantage Futures:
Advantage Futures ranks among the highest volume clearing firms in the industryprocessing 252+ million contracts in 2016 and surpassing 3.7 billion contracts processed since inception in 2003. Advantage continues to expand its diverse client base by striving to deliver the highest level of client service. Our exceptional technology support, experienced risk management and responsive back office operations combine to provide comprehensive, technology-driven clearing and execution services over robust and redundant network infrastructure.
SOURCE Advantage Futures
Related Links
http://www.advantagefutures.com
"Suicide prevention is not the responsibility of one person, one organization or one industry. We can all help prevent suicide," said Roland Behm, Chair of the Board of Directors for the AFSP Georgia Chapter . "The state needs to make this a priority for the people of Georgia before we lose any more lives to suicide."
"In the past nine years, there have been great strides in what we know about how to prevent suicide. There have been new education programs developed based on the research we've learned. In 2008, the internet was just in its infancy, a tool and platform that has presented great challenges and opportunities in the area of preventing suicide. A plan from 2008 is not acceptable or adequate for helping us to save lives," said Chris Owens, Georgia Area Director at AFSP.
This is the second time AFSP is hosting a State Capitol Day in Georgia. The advocates are part of a larger national movement of AFSP volunteer advocates who will be visiting 35 state capitols across the United States in spring 2017 to bring best practices in suicide prevention to state legislators.
Suicide in Georgia
On average one person dies by suicide every seven hours in the state. Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death overall in Georgia. For people aged 25-34 in Georgia, it is the second leading cause of death. For those aged 10-24, it is the third leading cause of death.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that's smart about mental health through education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide. Led by CEO Robert Gebbia and headquartered in New York, AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states with programs and events nationwide. AFSP celebrates 30 years of service to the suicide prevention movement. Learn more about AFSP in its latest Annual Report, and join the conversation on suicide prevention by following AFSP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
SOURCE American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Related Links
http://www.afsp.org
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- "Jeff Sessions did nothing wrong. Jeff Sessions said nothing wrong. And, his partisan enemies know it," declares Washington D.C. law professor and attorney Victor Williams.
Prof. Williams charges Beltway elites with intentionally vilifying Sessions:
"The same extreme partisans and greedy globalists who relentlessly attacked Jeff Sessions during his Senate confirmation ordeal are again abusing him. The American people can see through these unfair and untrue smears."
Prof. Victor Williams, who chairs the new "America First Lawyers Association," says that Sessions is to be lauded for his immediate and unequivocal denial of the ugly accusations as being "totally false."
"Jeff Sessions should also be commended for going the extra-mile in taking the 'right and just' action to recuse himself from possible DOJ investigations involving the 2016 election."
Williams stated that the Attorney General's ethical vigilance will not surprise anyone who knows the real Jeff Sessions. Prof. Williams explains:
"For decades, I have known Jeff Sessions to be an incredibly honorable and ethical public servant. Immediately after graduating from law school in California, I relocated to Mobile Alabama to clerk for Judge Brevard Hand in the same federal courthouse where Sessions was head prosecutor. I have since witnessed Sessions dedicated service as U.S. Attorney, as Alabama Attorney General, and then as United States Senator."
The law professor credits Sessions with educating him, in 2014, about the worsening issues of immigration, crime, and the struggling American worker. Learning Sessions' hard lessons prepared Williams to become an early Donald Trump supporter.
Williams states: "That is why I was so honored to support Jeff Sessions' Senate confirmation especially as 1400 of my elitist law professor colleagues opposed him in mindless lock-step."
Williams predicts that the Beltway elites' smears against Sessions and the Democrats' strange Russian obsession will ultimately backfire.
"The 2018 mid-term elections are already in sight. For the next 20 months, the Trump/Pence administration will be laser focused on tax cuts, job growth, health reforms, and restoring law and order. Meanwhile, let Democrats, the Beltway elites, and the corrupt media keep titling at Moscow windmills and doubling-down on Russian witch-hunts. Then, let the American people decide.
Professor Williams emphasized that a 2019 filibuster-proof GOP Senate will prove invaluable in the continued movement to "put America first."
In the 2016 campaign, Victor Williams founded "Lawyers and Law Professors for Trump," now rebranded as "America First Lawyers Association" to advance the Trump/Pence "America first" movement.
Media contact:
Prof. Victor Williams
[email protected]
301-951-9045
SOURCE Prof. Victor Williams, Chair of America First Lawyers Association
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Indira Lakshmanan, a Washington columnist for The Boston Globe and longtime national and foreign correspondent, will join the faculty of The Poynter Institute as the Craig Newmark Chair in Journalism Ethics. She will write on media ethics, and will lead teaching and organize conferences on a range of ethics issues, including fake news, trust in journalism and media literacy.
Lakshmanan has worked for newspapers, a wire service, digital and print magazines, TV and radio, reporting from the U.S. and more than 80 countries, and traveling with U.S. presidents, secretaries of State, and presidential candidates. In her new role at Poynter, Lakshmanan will be a prominent voice in the national conversation about the role of journalism in our democracy.
"I couldn't be more thrilled about this incredible opportunity to work on challenging ethical questions at a signal moment for our industry. I'm looking forward to collaborating with journalists, newsroom leaders, tech companies and other stakeholders on questions of access, objectivity, and fake news at a time when our profession is under pressure from multiple directions," Lakshmanan said. "Poynter's national and international reach educating and advocating for press freedom makes it an ideal place to collect and share ideas widely and seek partners in addressing the ethical foundations of our profession, including audience trust and media literacy."
The Newmark Chair is supported by a $1 million gift from the Craig Newmark Foundation to fund a major, multi-year initiative in journalism ethics. In conjunction with the creation of the Newmark Chair, Poynter will host annual conferences on ethics issues over the next five years. Lakshmanan will write regularly on Poynter.org, the leading news and information site for the media industry, and provide ethics training across Poynter's in-person and online curriculum.
"The Poynter Institute helps American news media live up to the ideal of being 'the immune system of democracy' and Indira will be a big part of that," said Craig Newmark of the appointment.
Ethics has always been part of the foundational skills that Poynter considers critical to the journalism practice.
"The profession of journalism cannot serve democracy unless our ethics keep pace with the needs of our audience," said Poynter Vice President Kelly McBride. "Lately, we've been moving at warp speed, which is why I'm thrilled to have Indira joining our faculty. She has the intellect, the experience, and the energy to help journalism fulfill its promise."
Before beginning her column for the Globe, Lakshmanan was a senior correspondent for Bloomberg News in Washington for eight years, covering politics and foreign policy. For two years, she wrote a "Letter from Washington" column for the International Herald Tribune, then the overseas edition of the New York Times, and Bloomberg. Previously, she was a foreign correspondent on three continents for 12 years, covering the end of the Bosnia War, the fall of the Taliban in Afghanistan and the drug war in Colombia. She started at the Boston Globe as a police reporter, and spent 10 years as the Globe's bureau chief in Asia and in Latin America. She began her career on NPR's foreign desk and as NPR's reporter-stringer in Chile.
Since 2015, Lakshmanan has contributed to Politico Magazine and guest-hosted NPR programs including "Here & Now," "1A," "The Diane Rehm Show," and "Weekend Edition." She appears as an analyst on MSNBC and has contributed to PBS. She graduated from Harvard University, and did graduate studies at Oxford University as a Rotary Scholar. She was a Nieman Fellow at Harvard in 2003-2004.
Tim Franklin, president of Poynter, said Lakshmanan's journalistic experience across multiple platforms and her reporting work in the U.S. and abroad make her uniquely qualified for this position at the Institute.
"Indira has worked inside print, digital and broadcast newsrooms at a high level, and she's done it all over the world," Franklin said. "That gives her the credibility and the gravitas to tackle the very big ethical issues facing American news organizations today. Trust in media is a huge issue right now, and Indira will be on the frontlines writing about timely ethical issues and helping lead an important national conversation."
Lakshmanan begins in her new role as the Craig Newmark Chair in Journalism Ethics at Poynter in mid-March.
About The Poynter Institute
The Poynter Institute for Media Studies is a global leader in journalism education and a strategy center that stands for uncompromising excellence in journalism, media and 21st century public discourse. Poynter faculty teach seminars and workshops at the Institute in St. Petersburg, Fla., and at conferences and organizational sites around the world. Its e-learning division, News University, www.newsu.org, offers the world's largest online journalism curriculum in 7 languages, with more than 400 interactive courses and 330,000 registered users in more than 200 countries. The Institute's website, www.poynter.org, produces 24-hour coverage of news about media, ethics, technology, the business of news and the trends that currently define and redefine journalism news reporting. The world's top journalists and media innovators come to Poynter to learn and teach new generations of reporters, storytellers, media inventors, designers, visual journalists, documentarians and broadcast producers, and to build public awareness about journalism, media, the First Amendment and protected discourse that serves democracy and the public good.
Contact: Tina Dyakon
Director of Advertising and Marketing
The Poynter Institute
[email protected]
727-553-4343
SOURCE Poynter
LUXEMBOURG, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Humaniq, a blockchain based banking application with a mission to aid 2 billion currently unbanked people from emerging economies reschedules its ICO from February 28 to April 6, 2017. Humaniq hopes that the postponed ICO will ensure unhindered participation of investors from countries like China that is currently facing certain restrictions.
Humaniq's primary goal is to create an Ethereum blockchain based mobile banking app that can be offered to the over two billion people with no current access to banking services. In addition to the banking service, the app will also provide the necessary infrastructure to allow third party insurance providers, p2p lenders, and data security services to use it. The blockchain banking platform is designed by accounting for different perspectives presented by people from various countries and cultures.
Chinese investors have shown a lot of interest in Humaniq's ICO. In the wake of recent developments where the country's government has restricted the movement of Bitcoin, Humaniq has in good faith moved the ICO dates to prevent any inconvenience in shifting assets within the cryptocurrency investor community.
"I've been in close contact with our Chinese partners, and our internal information shows us that there is strong interest in this ICO among Chinese blockchain community members. Therefore, we're going to show some solidarity and good faith to our friends in China, and push back the ICO so that they don't miss out on early investor rewards," says Alex Fork.
Fork clarified that the change in ICO dates has nothing to do with any organizational challenges. The team behind Humaniq stands ready and continues to make progress with the app. The only reason for changing the dates is to see if the Chinese government will change its stance so that investors can feel free to participate in the crowd sale unhindered.
About Humaniq
Launched in 2016, the Humaniq platform is a result of Alex Fork's discussions with Vitalik Buterin and the UN representatives on a later date at the ICT Conference in Moldova. Fork has also interacted with over 500 representatives from the Russian finance industry.
Humaniq will be working closely with the head of Satoshi Centre in Botswana, Alakanani Itireleng and other partners from developing nations. They will function as regional and local leaders responsible for making the community understand the platform's importance. Itireleng is also one of the principal authors of "The African Blockchain Opportunity" and has been a tireless advocate for Blockchain in developing nations.
With the goal of including over 2 billion unbanked people into the global economy, Humaniq is already off to a great start. The platform has been successful in its initial crowdfunding campaign in December 2016. The startup also has an ambitious agenda for 2017.
Humaniq is sponsoring a startup competition at the BlockShow Europe 2017 in Munich, Germany. The contest schedule coincides with the ICO launch on April 6, 2017. The event will see six finalists competing for a 10000 prize which will be offered half in Bitcoin and rest in Humaniq tokens.
Learn more about Humaniq at https://humaniq.co
Learn more about BlockShow Europe 2017 http://events.cointelegraph.com/buy-ticket/
Humaniq on Twitter https://twitter.com/Humaniq_co
Follow Humaniq's blog at https://blog.humaniq.co/
Humaniq on GitHub https://github.com/humaniq
Humaniq on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXatRidLHbngYUtF8JXICPA
Media Contact
Contact Name: Peter Bel
Contact Email: [email protected]
Contact Phone: +7 950 228 45 68
Location: Luxembourg
Humaniq is the source of this content. Virtual currency is not legal tender, is not backed by the government, and accounts and value balances are not subject to consumer protections. This press release is for informational purposes only. The information does not constitute investment advice or an offer to invest.
Related Links
Bitcoin PR Buzz
Humaniq
Related Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prEPErb82Mg
This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. For more info visit: http://www.newswire.com
SOURCE Humaniq
Related Links
https://humaniq.co
West Edmonton Mall is the largest shopping mall in North America. It receives about 32 million visitors per year and attracts between 90,000 and 200,000 shoppers daily, depending on the day and season. The great demand for shopping in West Edmonton requires many trendy and attractive brands in the market.
MUJOSH has brought the 2017 latest collections of sunglasses and the most popular series of frames to meet the needs of stylish pioneers in Canada. This debut received a great deal of attention in the mall and the shop filled with customers in the past few days. Ms. Kim was the very first customer of this MUJOSH store. She said that she had seen this brand in Shanghai and Singapore during her last trip, and it was great to witness the opening in Edmonton. This successful debut in Canada marks a milestone for MUJOSH on its way to expand globally.
About MUJOSH
Established in 2010, MUJOSH is a cutting-edge fashion eyewear brand headquartered in Hong Kong. Boldly combining unique elements and styles into design, this dedicated brand has an attitude of its own to encourage the young group to think out of the box and to be innovative. MUJOSH is loved by fashion icons and wearers.
Over 700 MUJOSH specialty stores located in high-end shopping malls and department stores covering Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Australia and Canada.
SOURCE MUJOSH
HOUSTON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Cheniere Energy, Inc. ("Cheniere") (NYSE MKT: LNG) announced today that it has closed on a new four-year $750 million Revolving Credit Facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility") with nine financial institutions. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility will bear interest at a rate of London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 325 basis points per annum. Undrawn commitment fees are 75 basis points per annum.
Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility may be used by Cheniere to fund equity capital contributions to Cheniere CCH HoldCo II, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cheniere, and for general corporate purposes, subject to certain restrictions.
Societe Generale is Administrative Agent, and Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. and SG Americas Securities, LLC are Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners. The participating banks are Bank of America, N.A., Credit Suisse AG, Cayman Islands Branch, Goldman Sachs Bank USA, HSBC Bank USA, National Association, Mizuho Bank, Ltd., Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc., Royal Bank of Canada, Societe Generale and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains certain statements that may include "forward-looking statements" within the meanings of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included herein are "forward-looking statements." Included among "forward-looking statements" are, among other things, statements regarding Cheniere's business strategy, plans and objectives. Although Cheniere believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. Cheniere's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in Cheniere's periodic reports that are filed with and available from the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Other than as required under the securities laws, Cheniere does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.
SOURCE Cheniere Energy, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.cheniere.com
Did you know that an elephant seal can hold its breath for two hours, the longest of any animal? Also, here are this weekend's subway changes.
1 trains will not run in either direction between 14 St and South Ferry from 11:30 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday. On the Van Cortlandt Park-242 St track, trains run express from Times Sq-42 St to 72 St; that change is in effect from 11:45 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday.
Wakefield-241 St bound 2 trains run express from Chambers St to 14 St and express from Times Sq-42 St to 72 St from 11:45 p.m. Friday to 6:30 a.m. Sunday, and again from 11:45 p.m. Sunday to 5 a.m. Monday. Trains on that track will also run express from Franklin Av to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr, with that change in effect from 11:45 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday, and trains on that track will run loal from 14 St to Penn Station from 11:30 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday. During that period, Flatbush Av-Brooklyn College bound 2 trains will run local from Penn Station to Chambers St.
Harlem-148 St bound 3 trains will run express from Franklin Av to Atlantic-Av Barclays Ctr and local from 14 St to Penn Station, with that change in effect from 6:30 a.m. to midnight on Saturday and Sunday. During that period, New Lots Av-bound trains will run local from Penn Station to Chambers St.
4 trains will not run at all between 149 St-Grand Concourse and Woodlawn from 11:30 p.m. Friday to 1 a.m. Monday. Trains will operate between New Lots Av/Crown Hts-Utica Av and 149 St-Grand Concourse, and then reroute along the 2 to and from E 180 St during that period. Manhattan-bound trains will run express from Franklin Av to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr from 11:45 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. Friday to Sunday, and then again from 11:45 p.m. Sunday to 5 a.m. Monday. Also on that track, trains run local between 42 St and 125 St from 12:01 a.m. Saturday to 5 a.m. Monday.
5 trains will not run in either direction between Eastchester-Dyre Av and Flatbush Av-Brooklyn College, with that change in effect from 11:30 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday.
All 7 trains are suspended between 34 St-Hudson Yards and Queensboro Plaza from 12:15 a.m. Saturday to 4:30 a.m. Monday. Main St-bound trains will run express from Queensboro Plaza to 74 St-Broadway during that period.
All A trains will reroute along the F line between W 4 St-Wash Sq and Jay St-MetroTech from 11:45 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday. Trains will stop at 155 St and 163 St from 12:01 a.m. Saturday to 4:30 a.m. Monday.
All C trains will reroute along the F line between W 4 St-Wash Sq and Jay St-MetroTech from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Also during that period, trains will not run at all between 145 St and 168 St.
Coney Island-Stillwell Av bound D trains will make local stops from DeKalb Av to 36 St from 12:01 a.m. Saturday to 5 a.m. Monday.
F trains will not run in either direction between Coney Island-Stillwell Av and Church Av from 11;45 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday. Also during that period, Jamaica-179 St bound trains will skip 75 Av, Briarwood, and Sutphin Blvd.
M trains will not run in either direction between Metropolitan Av and Myrtle Av, with that change in effect from 11:45 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday. Trains will operated between Essex St and Myrtle Av, and reroute along the J line from Broadway Junction except for late nights.
Coney Island-Stillwell Av bound N trains will make express stops from Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr to 59 St from 11:45 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. Friday to Sunday, and again from 11:45 p.m. Sunday to 5 a.m. Monday.
Bay Ridge-bound R trains will will make express stops from Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr to 59 St from 11:45 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday.
The 42 St S shuttle will operate overnight all weekend.
W service will operate between Whitehall St and Ditmars Blvd, with that change in effect from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.
"Hula Hoop" was born from Yankee's #1 hit song "Shaky Shaky Remix," where the addicting Hula Hoop Hook was first featured--fans and Zumba instructors from around the world begged Daddy Yankee to build upon the hook and the new song and choreography was born.
Zumba made a name for itself as a music platform for both emerging and well-known artists and labels by launching music through its instructor networkwhich spans across 186 countries with classes in 200,000+ locationsas well as producing over 600 original songs in its music library.
"Dancing is a universal language and 15 million people will soon be following along to the official choreography of 'Hula Hoop'", says Zumba VP of Marketing, Carolina Morales. "When you're in a Zumba class, it's like you're turning on the radio, and discovering new songs and rhythms'Shaky Shaky' was such a hit in class are thrilled to bring our fans and instructors this new track and choreography to create a global 'hula hoop' movement."
"This is a track I made by popular request. The fans asked me on my social media platforms to create a track off the Hula Hoop hook on Shaky Shaky. They asked for it, and I gave it to them. It's incredible how easily I can listen to my fans ideas, and respond! It (social media) really helps artists have a clear idea of what they (the fans) want and expect from us" said Daddy Yankee.
Daddy Yankee who has over 7.5 million subscribers on his YouTube and VEVO channels is also the Most Played Latin Male Artist Globally on Spotify and the Top 31 played worldwide with over 20 million listeners a month. This partnership with Zumba begins with 'Hula Hoop' and the future holds exciting launches for the dance-fitness brand and Reggaeton super star--stay tuned!
About Zumba Fitness, LLC
Founded in 2001, Zumba is the largest branded fitness company in the world -- reporting more than 15 million weekly participants, in 200,000 locations, across 186 countries. Known as "exercise in disguise", Zumba blends contagious world rhythms with easy-to-follow choreography, for an effective, total-body workout that feels more like a party than exercise. In addition to its original Zumba program, the company offers 10 Zumba specialty classes -- from aquatic-based to those specifically designed for active older adults and children. In 2016, Zumba launched its first non-dance, HIIT-based workout called STRONG by Zumba, based on Synced Music Motivation. The Zumba lifestyle is rounded out by the company's many consumer product offerings, including DVDs, video games and original music, activewear and footwear, nutrition drink line "Zumba Shake Shake Shake" and interactive Fitness-Concert events. For more information about Zumba's programs and products, or to find a live class, visit zumba.com. Visit the ZLife blog and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Contact
48 Communications
Jackie Kundla, 646-893-4561
[email protected]
SOURCE Zumba Fitness
Related Links
http://www.zumba.com
DUESSELDORF, Germany, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Dr. Christian Fischer (53) will join the Management Board of Gerresheimer AG as an ordinary member on August 1, 2017 before taking over as Chief Executive Officer on September 1, 2017. Dr. Christian Fischer is currently President, Performance Chemicals, at BASF SE in Ludwigshafen, Germany. Uwe Rohrhoff (54), CEO of Gerresheimer AG, previously announced in November 2015 that he would not be available to serve on the Management Board beyond his current appointment.
"In Dr. Christian Fischer, we have gained an outstanding leader as CEO. He brings with him 24 years of industry experience and has demonstrated his entrepreneurial drive in various roles at BASF, both in Germany and abroad. Over the past few years, Gerresheimer has refined its strategic focus, made successful acquisitions and divestments, and established numerous operational initiatives - these will ensure a smooth and seamless transition," explained Dr. Axel Herberg, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Gerresheimer AG.
"Gerresheimer AG is a highly successful, international company and a trusted partner to the pharma and healthcare industry. I am looking forward to my new role in this exciting company and market," added Dr. Christian Fischer.
Uwe Rohrhoff will leave the Company on August 31, 2017. Following Dr. Christian Fischer's induction in August 2017, Uwe Rohrhoff will continue to support his successor in an advisory capacity for a further three months.
Dr. Christian Fischer
Dr. Christian Fischer was born in Furth im Wald, Germany, in 1964. From 1984 to 1988 he studied chemistry at the University of Regensburg, where he gained his doctorate in 1991. He then studied business administration in Mannheim from 1993 to 1996. In 2014, he was appointed an honorary professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM).
Dr. Fischer has worked at BASF since 1993. Having started his career as a laboratory team leader, he has held various positions at the company, including Deputy Division Manager, Global Marketing Director, Sales Director and Group Vice President in different divisions in Ludwigshafen and Hong Kong. He was President, Advanced Materials & Systems Research and currently serves as President, Performance Chemicals, at BASF SE in Ludwigshafen. Dr. Christian Fischer is married and has one daughter.
Jens Kurten
Group Senior Director Communication & Marketing
Phone +49-211-6181-250
Fax +49-211-6181-241
E-mail [email protected]
Website www.gerresheimer.com
SOURCE Gerresheimer AG
JACKSON, Miss., March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- EastGroup Properties (NYSE: EGP) announced that N. Keith McKey, its Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will retire on July 31, 2017. Mr. McKey has been an officer of the Company since 1983, and has been Chief Financial Officer since 1993.
The Board of Directors has appointed Brent W. Wood, presently the Senior Vice President and head of the Company's regional office in Houston, Texas, to become Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer effective on Mr. McKey's retirement. Mr. Wood, age 47, has been with the Company since 1996 and his first position with the Company was Assistant Controller, before he moved into operational roles. Mr. Wood earned Bachelor and Master of Accountancy degrees from The University of Mississippi, and prior to joining the Company was a CPA and senior audit consultant with a regional accounting firm.
Marshall Loeb, President and Chief Executive Officer of EastGroup, said, "Keith has been an invaluable asset to EastGroup and to me. He has been a key member of the team that created significant value for EastGroup's shareholders by leading our finance team for 25 years through a period of consistent and significant growth. We will miss his steady hand, good counsel and leadership. We wish him a happy, healthy and long retirement."
Commenting on Mr. Wood's appointment, Mr. Loeb said, "I am thrilled to welcome Brent as our new CFO. I have known Brent for over 20 years, and he has been the leader of our Texas regional office for 14 years. The combination of his strong financial skills, first-hand knowledge of EastGroup's operations and strategy and the strength of our accounting team will allow a smooth transition."
Mr. McKey commented, "I have been discussing my retirement with the Board as part of our management succession plan that began a few years ago. Now that we're through the CEO transition, I've decided that it is an appropriate time for me to transition to retirement. The past 37 years have been a great experience. I intend to work with the executive management team to ensure an orderly transition, and I know I'm leaving EastGroup in competent hands with our strong accounting and finance team, which will now include Brent, whose first position with EastGroup was on my staff."
EastGroup Properties, Inc. is a self-administered equity real estate investment trust focused on the development, acquisition and operation of industrial properties in major Sunbelt markets throughout the United States with an emphasis in the states of Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and North Carolina. The Company's strategy for growth is based on ownership of premier distribution facilities generally clustered near major transportation features in supply-constrained submarkets. EastGroup's portfolio, including development projects in lease-up and under construction, currently includes 38.3 million square feet.
EastGroup Properties, Inc. press releases are available at www.eastgroup.net .
P.O. BOX 22728 JACKSON, MS 39225-2728
TEL: 601-354-3555 FAX: 601-352-1441
SOURCE EastGroup Properties, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.eastgroup.net
DALLAS, March 2, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Eclipse Aesthetics, LLC, a leading aesthetic and medical supply company, is proud to launch its partnership with Theradome, a medical therapy company, by offering the Theradome LH80 PRO. The innovative hair restoration device is ground-breaking, affordable, effective and U.S. FDA cleared (510(k) K122950) for home use.
"This is game-changing technology for hair restoration practices and their patients," said Tom O'Brien, CEO of Eclipse. "We're excited to be providing this leading-edge technology that's clinically proven to eclipse other home-use devices. It allows consumers to treat or to enhance the results of in-office procedures."
Theradome is a full coverage helmet that utilizes 80 proprietary lasers optimized for the purpose of reaching all problem areas to aid in hair growth for people with androgenic alopecia. Unlike devices manufactured with LEDs, the device has 678-nm laser light that concentrates on the scalp and can effectively reach the base of hair follicles during a 20-minute treatment session. The stimulation ensures adequate energy can be absorbed to aid in thickening and restoring hair.
"We're pleased to be partnering with Eclipse to offer Theradome's laser hair restoration helmet," said Tamim Hamid, CEO of Theradome. "We're revolutionizing the hair restoration market by raising its standards of performance and innovation while partnering with top leaders, such as Eclipse. We rely on the scientific laws that govern Laser Phototherapy and optimum scalp health restoration to offer our customers superior products that are clinically proven to be safe, effective and for a fraction of the cost."
"Most of our patients that adhere to our recommended hair loss treatment regimen and instructions experience a decrease of hair shedding, an increase of hair growth, and a doubling of hair diameter, overall giving them thicker hair," Mr. Hamid added. Theradome results can often be seen in as little as four weeks (results may vary).
To learn more, visit booth #2875 at the 2017 AAD (American Academy of Dermatology) Meeting in Orlando, Florida March 3-7, or log onto www.EclipseAesthetics.com.
Eclipse Aesthetics, LLC provides superior solutions to the U.S. and International aesthetic and medical communities. The company offers a portfolio of products, from Eclipse PRP, platelet-rich plasma kits to Eclipse MicroPen, micro-needling devices. www.EclipseMed.com or www.EclipseIntl.com.
Contact
Kimyla Guice
Director of Marketing
800-759-6876
[email protected]
SOURCE Eclipse Aesthetics, LLC
Related Links
http://eclipseaesthetics.com
PITTSBURGH, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Education Management Corporation (EDMC) today announced the execution of a definitive agreement for the sale of substantially all the assets of EDMC and its schools to Dream Center Foundation (DCF), a not-for-profit foundation. The sale is expected to be completed in summer of 2017.
The transaction includes all the faculty and staff of South University, Argosy University and The Art Institutes locations currently enrolling new students. It also includes a majority of the employees from EDMC's corporate offices. Students currently enrolled at the education systems will continue in their studies.
The Dream Center Foundation is an endowment fund that provides opportunity and resources to many people in the United States through its 110 locations across the country. The transaction provides the various schools the opportunity to educate students as part of a not-for-profit organization.
"The post-secondary institutions owned by EDMC have been serving the educational needs of students for more than 100 years, and as our almost a half million alumni will attest, we provide opportunities to help people improve their lives. I am so pleased to announce this transaction as the next step in continuing our educational commitment to students for years to come. The dedication of our faculty and staff together with the vision of the DCF Board will only serve to improve educational opportunities for all students," said Mark McEachen, president and chief executive officer of EDMC.
"For three years, the Dream Center Foundation has actively explored educational partnerships or acquisitions that might enhance our ability to provide quality education to scores of Americans through our Dream Center in Los Angeles and via our partners, nationwide," added Dream Center Foundation managing director Randall Barton. "We believe this is the opportunity we have been looking for, and it aligns perfectly with our mission which views education as a primary means of life transformation."
The transaction is subject to a number of operational and other closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals from the U.S. Department of Education, institutional accrediting agencies, state licensing boards and programmatic accreditation bodies.
About Education Management Corporation
Education Management Corporation is one of the largest providers of post-secondary education in the United States, based on student enrollment and revenue, with a total of 102 locations in 31 U.S. states. The company offers academic programs to students through campus-based and online instruction, or through a combination of both. The company is committed to offering quality academic programs and strives to improve the learning experience for its students. Its educational institutions offer students the opportunity to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees and certain specialized non-degree diplomas in a broad range of disciplines, including business, culinary, design, education, fashion, health sciences, information technology, legal, media arts, and psychology and behavioral sciences. Education Management Corporation, 210 Sixth Avenue 33rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222 2017 Education Management Corporation. Our email address is [email protected].
About the Dream Center Foundation
The Dream Center Foundation funds programs providing educational opportunity, emergency food and medical services, transitional housing for homeless families, youth and veterans as well as support for victims of human trafficking through its principal partner, the Dream Center Los Angeles. Each month more than 50,000 people are assisted in Los Angeles alone, and countless others through its network in 41 states and 21 countries.
SOURCE Education Management Corporation
CLEARWATER, Fla., March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Enigma Software Group USA, LLC ("ESG") announced that it reached a settlement in the lawsuit it filed last year against Bleeping Computer LLC. The case will now be dismissed. ESG filed suit against Bleeping Computer in federal court in New York on January 5, 2016. The complaint alleged false advertising, defamation, and related claims.
The terms of the settlement are confidential, but Bleeping Computer explained in its press release on the settlement that it has now removed the posts written by its staff member that gave rise to ESG's lawsuit. All of Bleeping Computer's counterclaims in the lawsuit will be dismissed by the court with prejudice, along with ESG's dismissal of the case.
Bleeping Computer had moved to dismiss ESG's lawsuit, alleging that its statements were protected by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. The court rejected that motion in a decision handed down last summer.
Ryan Gerding, a spokesman for ESG, said of the development, "ESG is pleased to put this matter behind us and to get back to making the best anti-malware products on the market. It is unfortunate when litigation becomes necessary, but ESG is grateful to the court for its assistance."
About Enigma Software Group USA, LLC
Enigma Software Group USA, LLC is a privately held international systems integrator and developer of PC security software, with offices in the United States and the European Union. The company's specialties are the development of PC security software, online security analysis, adaptive threat assessment, and detection of PC security threats, as well as malware custom fixes for its millions of subscribers worldwide. ESG is best known for SpyHunter, its anti-malware software product and service. To learn more about ESG, visit www.enigmasoftware.com.
Connect with ESG on Twitter | Facebook | Google+ | LinkedIn | YouTube
SOURCE Enigma Software Group USA, LLC
BEDFORD, Mass., March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- EnterpriseDB (EDB), the database platform company for digital business, today announced that Keith Alsheimer, Chief Marketing Officer, will present at the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit to be held March 6-9 in Grapevine, Texas.
Alsheimer will deliver his presentation, titled Will Digital Transformation Change You or Break You? on Monday, March 6, at 11:45 am CT. He will examine the enterprise imperative to synthesize vast volumes of data from existing and new applications in order to better serve customer needs. He will also address the challenge of optimizing new technologies that transform the data infrastructure and support new digital operational models, while illustrating how an open source-based architecture can spur digital transformation success.
Alsheimer oversees sales development, corporate communication, product marketing, and brand management at EnterpriseDB. He has more than 25 years of leadership experience in the enterprise and government technology sectors.
EnterpriseDB will exhibit at the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit at Booth No. 629 in the Exhibit Hall. To schedule a meeting with EnterpriseDB executives, email [email protected].
To learn more about Postgres, attend Postgres Vision, June 26-28, 2017 at the Royal Sonesta Boston. Find registration details at www.PostgresVision.com.
About EnterpriseDB (EDB) Corporation
EnterpriseDB (EDB), the database platform company for digital business, delivers the premier open source-based data platform for new applications, cloud re-platforming, application modernization, and legacy migration. EnterpriseDB integrates with enterprise technologies and infrastructures for hybrid cloud management, data integration, and data warehousing. Our customers benefit from the most reliable, high-performing, flexible, open, and cost-effective data management platform available. EnterpriseDB is based in Bedford, Massachusetts with 16 offices around the globe. For more information, visit www.EDBPostgres.com.
EnterpriseDB is a registered trademark of EnterpriseDB Corporation. EDB and EDB Postgres are trademarks of EnterpriseDB Corporation. Other trademarks may be trademarks of their respective owners.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Nancy Scott
EnterpriseDB
+1 781.357.3090
[email protected]
Cairbre Sugrue
Sugrue Communications
+44 (0)1932 429 779
[email protected]
SOURCE EnterpriseDB
Related Links
http://www.enterprisedb.com
During his three-decade legal career, Sheridan has advised numerous public and private companies in sophisticated corporate transactions including public offerings, venture financings and M&A transactions. He has represented companies and underwriters in more than 100 public offerings, which have raised billions of dollars of capital, and has advised more than 150 companies in successfully raising venture capital financing. He also regularly counsels clients on corporate governance and other day-to-day matters.
"Jack is a well-known and highly respected player in the northern California business community, and we're thrilled to have him join our dynamic Emerging Companies practice," said Tad Freese, Office Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins in Silicon Valley. "Jack's unique combination of market experience, legal skills and engaging personality will have a strong, positive impact on our technology practice in the Bay Area and nationally, to the benefit of our clients."
Patrick Pohlen, global Co-chair of the firm's Emerging Companies Practice, added: "Jack is the kind of lawyer that emerging companies and investors seek out because he's handled every possible situation that can arise as a young company matures. His experience in the technology space fits in perfectly with our practice, and adding him to our team makes us an even stronger force in the market."
Sheridan said: "I've been impressed by Latham's dedication to working with entrepreneurs and venture-backed companies, and the firm's ability to provide the highest levels of counsel to clients throughout the life cycle of an emerging company. I also was attracted to Latham's formidable global platform and see great opportunities ahead for my practice and the clients I advise."
Sheridan received his law degree in 1986 from the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law. In addition to his role as an attorney, Sheridan is a certified public accountant in the state of California.
Sheridan joins from Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati in Palo Alto, where he practiced corporate and securities law for more than 30 years.
About Latham & Watkins
Latham & Watkins is a global law firm with approximately 2,200 lawyers in its offices located in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the United States, including: Barcelona, Beijing, Boston, Brussels, Century City, Chicago, Dubai, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Munich, New York, Orange County, Paris, Riyadh, Rome, San Diego, San Francisco, Seoul, Shanghai, Silicon Valley, Singapore, Tokyo and Washington, D.C. For more information on Latham & Watkins, please visit the website at www.lw.com.
Notes to Editors
1 Latham & Watkins operates as a limited liability partnership worldwide with affiliated limited liability partnerships conducting the practice in the United Kingdom, France and Italy and affiliated partnerships conducting the practice in Hong Kong, Japan and Singapore. Latham & Watkins operates in Seoul as a Foreign Legal Consultant Office. Latham & Watkins practices in Saudi Arabia in association with the Law Office of Salman M. Al-Sudairi.
Contacts
Tad Freese, Silicon Valley Office Managing Partner, +1.650.463.3060
Patrick Pohlen, Global Co-chair, Emerging Companies Practice, +1.650.463.3067
SOURCE Latham & Watkins LLP
Related Links
https://www.lw.com
"I wanted to support Wounded Warrior Project because they do good things for our nation's soldiers," he explained. "Those soldiers risked their lives for our country, and they need help when they're hurt. Wounded Warrior Project is caring for them, and I wanted to give what I could to help them."
Nicholas raised the money to support WWP entirely on his own. At a recent family birthday party, Nicholas crafted some bracelets that he then sold to relatives and friends. He mailed the money to WWP along with a handwritten letter.
"Some of the people who lost limbs to protect America are just trying to live normal lives again," Nicholas said. "I saw on TV commercials and heard on the radio that they needed help, so I wanted to do something for them. I would tell them 'thank you for your service and for risking your lives to help us.'"
WWP programs and services assist injured veterans with physical health and wellness, career and benefits counseling, connecting with other warriors and their communities, and mental health. To address the growing needs of warriors who are returning from war with invisible wounds, WWP offers veterans a range of specialized mental health programs and services all tailored to each veteran's specific needs and free of charge. WWP and its supporters believe warriors already paid their dues on the battlefield, so warriors don't pay for any service they receive.
To learn more about how WWP's programs and services are making an impact on the lives of wounded warriors, visit http://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/. To find photos showing Nicholas' efforts, click on multimedia, then images.
About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) connects, serves, and empowers wounded warriors. Read more at http://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/about-us.
SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project
Related Links
http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org
KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Fleurette Group ("Fleurette") notes the statement made by Global Witness, its third such statement in the pst few weeks regarding the sale of royalties from Katanga's KCC project by Gecamines to a Fleurette-owned entity, which again either misunderstands or ignores the basis economics of this deal which produced significant value for Gecamines and a loss to Fleurette. Once again, Fleurette is compelled to set the record straight and protect its reputation from Global Witness' false allegations.
Global Witness continues to seek to criticize Fleurette over the matter of disclosure. Fleurette always discloses anything that is obligated to disclose.
$3billion in tax revenues for the DRC
Fleurette finds it both regrettable that Global Witness did not see fit to offer any endorsement of the $3 billion in tax revenue paid by the Mutanda and KCC assets since Fleurette's initial involvement - both assets in which Fleurette was heavily invested but has now exited. Global Witness' claim that its interests are in "the importance of DRC's mining assets to its economy and the potential benefits from a well-run mining sector to the country's development" clearly don't extend to welcoming precisely that.
Questionable calculations by Global Witness
Fleurette has already identified a series of misleading errors, from the vindictive to the ignorant in Global Witness' coverage of the KCC royalties issue. These errors include:
Amateur, immature financial calculations that do not follow even the basic valuation techniques used by all professionals in this field, and the use of numbers that mislead their readers; The failure to include further discounts (such as withholding tax payments) that are both obvious and important to value a royalty stream; and Failing to note AHIL's royalty right will cease on 1 March 2019 , as the under the terms of the original KCC JV Agreement between Katanga, Gecamines and KCC, Gecamines has to use the royalty to cover off a pre-existing Gecamines debt resulting in a loss to Fleurette. Contrary to what Global Witness is seeking to imply, the DRC Government continues to be entitled to receive royalty payments for KCC and Mutanda irrespective of Fleurette.
Fleurette EITI Reporting
Fleurette confirms that all of its reporting to EITI is accurate and that GW is, once again, attempting to mislead and confuse and is misunderstanding the information at its disposal.
Fleurette's considerable loss
As Fleurette has already made clear publicly, the DRC made a net profit from the deal, Fleurette a net loss. The transaction ultimately resulted in Gecamines safeguarding value for the DRC economy and Fleurette making a considerable loss due to the subsequent collapse in commodity prices and suspension of KCC's operations. This is because Gecamines sold the royalty right before operations at KCC were suspended, meaning Fleurette had paid in full for a royalty stream that that ceased soon afterwards. While Fleurette was left unable to recoup its investment, Gecamines received full value for it.
Katanga has been a poor investment for Fleurette. As disclosed on 13th February 2017, with the sale of its equity stake in Katanga, Fleurette has realised a loss of $190 million, in addition to the loss of the royalty deal. Yet these losses are never referred to by Global Witness, who seem determined to perpetuate the myth that Fleurette is able to generate positive returns on all its investments. This is evidently not the case.
Gecamines' Historic Loan
As has already been disclosed by Fleurette, Gecamines was provided with a $196million loan from Fleurette, which has been paid back in full. Global Witness have once again misunderstood and misinterpreted information in front of them. Gecamines gave payment directions to KCC to make the payments due to it direct to AHIL in partial-satisfaction of the historic loan. There is no question of anything "misleading". It is disappointing that Global Witness consistently choose to jump to conclusions and guess historic narratives rather than accept the veracity of previous transactions involving Fleurette, Gecamines and Glencore.
Global Witness continues to ignore these facts. Instead, it attempts to crititicize a deal which demonstrably and unequivocally benefited both Gecamines and the DRC. Despite these continued unjustified attacks, Fleurette remains committed to investing in the DRC.
About Fleurette - www.fleurettegroup.com / LinkedIn / Twitter
The Fleurette Group of Companies ("Fleurette") is an entrepreneurial business with significant investment in diverse sectors, including natural resources, infrastructure, agriculture and technology. Fleurette has substantial investments and operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The parent company of the group, Fleurette Properties Limited, is owned by Line Trust Corporation Limited strictly and solely as trustees of the Ashdale Settlement, a trust established in 2006 for the benefit of the family of Dan Gertler. Mr Gertler is a citizen and resident of Israel and the DRC (and honorary counsel to the DRC) and is committed to developing the country's natural resources and infrastructure, while investing in the Congolese people and their communities.
Fleurette has a proven track record of successful co-operation with diverse parties, including the DRC State-owned mining company Gecamines, and to date has brought more than USD $7 billion of investment into the DRC, on top of its USD $2 billion in private investment. As a result, Fleurette's subsidiaries and partnerships support around 30,000 jobs in the DRC and are amongst the DRC's leading taxpayers, contributing significant revenues to the State.
Fleurette is also a major contributor to social development in the DRC through the Gertler Family Foundation (GFF) and through direct investment in social infrastructure. The GFF is the largest charitable organization in the DRC, funding more than 50 programs and projects across the DRC, which help tens of thousands of Congolese every year. These include rebuilding key hospitals, notably the Kisangini "Hospital du Cinquantenaire"; supporting the Operation Smile campaign in Lubumbashi and Kinshasa; rebuilding Blaise Pascal School in Lubumbashi; and supporting the Lubumbashi Zoo.
Media enquiries
Powerscourt
+44(0)20-7250-1446
SOURCE Fleurette Group
NEW YORK, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
The ineffectiveness of traditional storage solutions has paved way for adoption of advanced storage options, particularly to record crucial consumer-centric data. Handling greater volumes of data transference has also necessitated the need for enclosing such data storage systems within a network. As opposed to single computer storage, individuals, as well as entrepreneurs, are growing more inclined towards setting network attached storage (NAS) servers. Remote access to such servers becomes more convenient for consumers, especially when improving operational efficiency and minimizing storage costs is a must. Persistence Market Research's recent study explores the opportunities for adoption of such consumer-based NAS systems, predicting that by the end of 2024, the global market for consumer network attached storage will be valued at US$ 4,088.7 Mn.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161114/438683LOGO )
Apropos the report, titled "Global Market Study on Consumer Network Attached Storage (NAS): Residential End User Segment Anticipated to Register a High CAGR During 2016 - 2024," the global consumer NAS market is presently valued a little over US$ 1,545 Mn, and will exhibit a healthy 11.6% CAGR during the forecast period. Factors such as rising demand for speedy transference of bulk data, growing need for efficient data backup plans, and increasing implementation of cost-effective storage options have been identified as the key drivers for the global consumer network attached storage market. Nevertheless, a steadfast adoption of consumer NAS systems across the globe is facing challenges such as competitive advantage of cloud-based storage services, and complex nature of expensive consumer network attached storage systems.
View Market Overview and Research Report Methodology: http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/consumer-network-attached-storage-nas-market.asp
Higher Demand for Consumer NAS in Middle East & Africa
Even though a majority of global consumer NAS revenues emanate from North America, the Middle East & Africa region is being perceived as highly lucrative. Adoption of consumer network attached storage systems is expected to be rapid in this region. The MEA consumer NAS market is also being projected to exhibit the highest value CAGR - 14.2%. With North America at the forefront, the global consumer network attached storage market will also witness substantial growth across Europe and Latin America. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific consumer network attached storage market will expand at 10.6% CAGR through 2024.
View Report Table of Contents, Figures, and [email protected] http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/consumer-network-attached-storage-nas-market/toc
Rising Adoption of Standalone Consumer NAS Solutions among SMEs
Based on the report findings, the global market for consumer network attached storage will be showcasing a greater contribution from small & medium enterprises (SMEs). In 2017 and beyond, SMEs will remain as the largest end-users of consumer network attached storage systems in the world. The demand for consumer NAS is also expected to remain substantial among residential end-uses, revenues from which are likely to reach US$ 1,315.2 Mn by 2024-end. Likewise, these end-users are actively adopting standalone consumer network attached storage system, as opposed to rackmount. The design of consumer NAS will continue to play a pivotal role in growth of the global market. By the end of 2024, more than US$ 2,700 Mn worth of standalone consumer NAS systems will be sold in the world.
Leading tech companies that will be catering to such surging global demands include, D-Link Corporation, NEC Corporation, Seagate Technology PLC, Netgear Inc., Western Digital Corporation, Synology Inc., EMC Corporation, ASUSTOR Inc., QNAP Systems, Inc., and Drobo Inc.
A sample of this report is available upon [email protected] http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/6460
Persistence Market Research Overview
Persistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.
To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.
Contact
Persistence Market Research
U.S. Sales Office:
305 Broadway, 7th Floor
New York City, NY 10007
United States
USA - Canada Toll-Free: 800-961-0353
[email protected]
Web: http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com
SOURCE Persistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd.
DUBLIN, Mar 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Global Markets for Protein Labeling" report to their offering.
The Global Protein-Labeling Market Should Reach $4.2 Billion by 2021, at a CAGR of 14.1%
This research report presents an in-depth analysis of the global protein-modeling market by application, product categories, labeling methods and regional markets.
It includes key labeling methods involved in vitro and in vivo labeling methods. It discusses the role of supply chain members from manufacturers to researchers. The report has an in-depth analysis of key companies operating in the global protein-labeling market. In-depth patent analysis will focus on providing extensive technological trends across years and regions, including the U.S., Europe and Japan.
The protein-labeling market is segmented into three labeling methods: in vitro labeling, in vivo labeling and biorthogonal labeling methods. In vitro labeling methods are further segmented into nanoparticle, site-specific, dye-based, cotranslational and enzymatic labeling.
The in vivo labeling method market is segmented into radioactive and photoreactive labeling. The protein-labeling market is further segmented on the basis of products offered for in-depth analysis of technology markets during the analysis period.
The market study is detailed for technology based on procedures, as well as its further implication on the research and development area.
Key Topics Covered:
1: Introduction
2: Executive Summary
3: Market Overview
- Market Definition
- Market Evolution And Innovation
- Quality Assurance And Control
- Good Laboratory Practices
- Technology Trends
- Development Of Labeling Tools
- Market Dynamics
4: Protein-Labeling Market By Application
- Cell-Based Assays
- Fluorescence Microscopy
- Mass Spectrometry
- Immunological Techniques
- Protein Microarray
5: Market Analysis By Product
- Kits
- Reagents
- Services
6: Protein Labeling Market Analysis By Labeling Method
- Labeling Method Types
7: Competitive Landscape
- Mergers And Acquisitions
- Product Launches
- Partnerships And Collaborations
- Other Strategies
8: Protein-Labeling Market Analysis By Region
9: Patent Analysis
Patent Analysis By Market Participants
Patent Analysis By Year
10: Company Profiles
- Active Motif Inc.
- Agilent Technologies Inc.
- Bio-Rad Laboratories
- Biotium Inc.
- Candor Bioscience Gmbh
- Caprion Biosciences
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG
- General Electric Company
- Innova Biosciences Ltd.
- Kaneka Corp.
- Li-Cor Biosciences
- Luminex Corp.
- Merck & Company Inc.
- Nanotemper Technologies Gmbh
- New England Biolabs Inc.
- Perkinelmer Inc.
- Promega Coprporation
- Seracare Life Sciences
- Takara Bio Usa Inc.
- Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
- Qiagen N.V.
11: Patents By Region
For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/szscj4/global_markets
Media Contact:
Research and Markets
Laura Wood, Senior Manager
[email protected]
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
SOURCE Research and Markets
Related Links
http://www.researchandmarkets.com
NEW YORK, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Global X Funds, the New York-based provider of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), today announced that its Board of Trustees has approved a reverse share split for the Global X MSCI Nigeria ETF (NYSE: NGE). NGE is the only ETF focused exclusively on the Nigerian market. The total market value of the shares outstanding will not be affected as a result of this split, except with respect to the redemption of fractional shares, as outlined below.
The firm will execute a 1-for-4 reverse split of the shares effective at the open of the market on March 16, 2017. A summary of the ETF undergoing a reverse share split is as follows.
Fund Name CUSIP Ratio Global X MSCI Nigeria ETF 37950E424 1:4
The reverse split will raise the price of the shares for the fund and decrease the number of shares outstanding, without affecting the total value of the shares outstanding.
Hypothetical example of a 1-for-4 reverse split:
Period Number of Shares
Owned Hypothetical Market
Price/Share ($U.S.) Total Value ($U.S.) Pre- split 400 $100 $4,000 Post- split 100 $400 $4,000
Redemption of Fractional Shares and Tax Consequences for Each Reverse Split
As a result of the reverse splits, a shareholder of the ETF could potentially hold a fractional share. However, fractional shares cannot trade on NYSE Arca. Thus, each ETF will redeem for cash a shareholders' fractional shares at the Fund's split-adjusted NAV. Such redemptions could cause a shareholder to realize a gain or loss. Otherwise, the reverse splits will not result in a taxable transaction for holders of ETF shares. Global X Management Company LLC does not impose a transaction fee on shareholders for such redemptions.
Brokerage Charges
Some brokerage charges may apply as a result of the reverse split. These charges are made directly by the broker and are not charges from Global X Management Company LLC.
ABOUT GLOBAL X
Seeking to provide access to high-quality and cost-efficient investment solutions, Global X is a New York-based sponsor of exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Founded in 2008, we are distinguished by our smart core, income, alpha, risk management and access suites of ETFs and have more than 50 funds available across U.S. and foreign exchanges. Global X is recognized as a leader in developing intelligent investment solutions for our clients.
DISCLOSURE
Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. The investable universe of companies in which the Fund may invest may be limited. The Fund is non-diversified.
Shares are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. Market price returns are based upon the midpoint of the bid/ask spread at the close of the exchange and does not represent the returns an investor would receive if shares were trade at other times. Brokerage commissions will reduce returns. NAVs are calculated using prices as of 4:00 PM Eastern Time.
Carefully consider the Fund's investment objectives, risk factors, charges, and expenses before investing. This and additional information can be found in the Fund's summary or full prospectus, which may be obtained by calling 1-888-GX-FUND-1 (1.888.493.8631), or by visiting www.globalxfunds.com.
Global X Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold or promoted by MSCI nor does MSCI make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in the Global X Funds. Neither SIDCO nor Global X is affiliated with MSCI.
Global X Management Company, LLC serves as an advisor to the Global X Funds. The Funds are distributed by SEI Investments Distribution Co. (SIDCO, 1 Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, PA, 19456), which is not affiliated with Global X Management Company, LLC.
SOURCE Global X Funds
Related Links
http://www.globalxfunds.com
BOSTON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Gordon Brothers, the 114-year-old global advisory, restructuring, and investment firm, announced today that it is acquiring the Wet Seal brand, pending final court approval. Launched in 1990, Wet Seal is an iconic consumer brand known for its surf-and-sun aesthetic targeted at fashion focused teens. The acquisition also includes other brands within the Wet Seal portfolio such as Arden B, Blink, Chic Boutique and several others. The transaction is pending final court approval.
Wet Seal was a pioneer in fast fashion, offering on-trend apparel to teen girls and young women. As recently as 2014, the business was doing well with over $500 million in revenue and 478 retail locations.
"Despite the increasing challenges facing teen retailers, we at Gordon Brothers strongly believe in the long-term viability of the category," said Ramez Toubassy, President, Brands. "Our plan for Wet Seal is to rebuild and reposition the brand and develop a unique new business model to best position it for future success."
Gordon Brothers' brands business acquires, restructures and revives some of the world's most recognizable brands. Past investments include Polaroid, Bombay & Co. and Sharper Image. The team is known throughout the industry for its expertise in buying, selling, managing and transforming underperforming consumer brands into healthy, thriving businesses.
About Gordon Brothers
Since 1903, Gordon Brothers (www.gordonbrothers.com) has helped lenders, operating executives, advisors, and investors move forward through change. The firm brings a powerful combination of expertise and capital to clients, developing customized solutions on an integrated or standalone basis across four service areas: valuations, dispositions, operations, and investments. Whether to fuel growth or facilitate strategic consolidation, Gordon Brothers partners with companies in the retail, commercial, and industrial sectors to put assets to their highest and best use. Gordon Brothers conducts more than $70 billion worth of dispositions and appraisals annually. Gordon Brothers is headquartered in Boston, with 25 offices across four continents.
Contact:
Colleen Arons
Gordon Brothers
[email protected]
617.422.7855
SOURCE Gordon Brothers
Related Links
http://www.gordonbrothers.com
LONDON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- H2B2 Electrolysis Technologies will present at CleanEquity Monaco 2017 on March 9th & 10th at the Fairmont Monte Carlo.
CleanEquity is an annual invitation-only event hosted by Innovator Capital, the London based specialist investment bank. The conference provides an intimate and collegiate setting for inventors and entrepreneurs to share their stories with delegates - key decision makers looking to assist them with reaching their commercial and strategic goals.
Other partners and sponsors include Prince Albert II of Monaco's Foundation, Covington & Burling, Cisco EIR, Cision, Cranfield University, Hobbs & Towne, the Monaco Economic Board, Parkview and the Social Stock Exchange.
H2B2 has been identified by an expert panel as one of the world's most innovative sustainable technology companies and has been selected to present to senior financial and strategic cleantech investors, policy makers, legislators, end users and media.
H2B2 was established in 2016 by professionals from the hydrogen and fuel cell sector who had been working for decades on the production and use of sustainable hydrogen.
The company currently possesses in-house technology for the design, development and manufacture of electrolyzers to produce hydrogen from water, in a clean, efficient and sustainable manner. In addition, the company staff has experience and know-how in the promotion, development, engineering, construction and O&M of large plants based on said electrolyzers, as well as the integration of the same with renewable energy sources. All the aforementioned facilitates large-scale production of clean hydrogen, locally and sustainably, and at a competitive price.
To this end, H2B2 has patents, its own as well as others under agreements, extensive knowledge of the sector along with strategic partnerships, which place it at a key point of the so-called "Hydrogen Economy".
Hydrogen is now considered to be not merely just another chemical but is also envisaged as an energy carrier, i.e. a method for storing and transporting energy, an alternative to current transport fuels, and a means for managing the supply of renewable energy.
Different countries around the globe are already contemplating hydrogen as a reality within their future energy strategy, the cases of the USA, Germany, UK, Korea, Japan, Denmark and Scandinavia being of note.
H2B2 has branch offices in Europe and the USA, from where it efficiently covers the three hydrogen markets: the industrial market, that of mobility (its use as fuel for land transport) and energy storage.
About Innovator Capital
Innovator Capital, established in 2003, is a specialist investment bank advising emerging technology companies on corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions. Its expertise includes intellectual property and multi national strategic partnering.
SOURCE Innovator Capital
Related Links
http://www.innovator-capital.com
CHICAGO, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Sparkling water just got a lot more exciting with the launch of Henry's Hard Sparkling, a new line of light and refreshing spiked sparkling waters. Created for those who are looking to make a lighter choice, these low-carb, under 95-calorie beverages are available nationwide.
At 4.2 percent alcohol by volume, Henry's Hard Sparkling has a crystal-clear appearance, a sparkling effervescence and is available in two lightly fruit-flavored options:
Hard Sparkling Lemon Lime: At 93 calories and 2.9 grams of carbohydrates, a pleasant citrus aroma is highlighted by notes of lime and lemon zest, resulting in a tart and slightly sweet flavor.
At 93 calories and 2.9 grams of carbohydrates, a pleasant citrus aroma is highlighted by notes of lime and lemon zest, resulting in a tart and slightly sweet flavor. Hard Sparkling Passion Fruit: At 92 calories and 2.6 grams of carbohydrates, hints of passion fruit and an aroma highlighted by berry notes result in a pleasing touch of tartness.
As the popularity of sparkling water has grown, Henry's Hard Sparkling joins together this beloved drink style with a kick of alcohol, giving people the best of both worlds as they maintain a balanced lifestyle.
"Henry's Hard Sparkling is perfect for those looking to treat themselves, lightly," said Josh Wexelbaum, MillerCoors marketing director for Henry's Hard Sparkling. "Whether it's following a group spin-class or during a post-softball game toast with friends, Henry's Hard Sparkling offers everyone the option for a lighter celebration."
Henry's Hard Sparkling is the most recent offering from the Henry's family, which launched Henry's Hard Soda, the No. 1 hard soda brand, in 2016.
"We're excited for Henry's Hard Sparkling to join the Henry's family so fans can have even more options to 'Live Hard-ish'," said Wexelbaum.
MillerCoors will support Henry's Hard Sparkling with a robust national marketing campaign, including advertising on high-profile partners such as TBS, Food Network, Bravo, USA, EPSN and Comedy Central, a digital presence on Men's Health and Women's Health, traditional print media support and public relations.
Fans can share how they enjoy a balanced life with Henry's Hard Sparkling by following @HenrysHardSparkling on Facebook and Instagram and using the hashtag #LiveHardish.
Henry's Hard Sparkling is available at most grocery and liquor stores in 6-pack 12-ounce bottles. For specific retail locations, visit the product locator at HenrysHardSparkling.com/locator.
About MillerCoors
Through its diverse collection of storied breweries, MillerCoors brings American beer drinkers an unmatched selection of the highest quality beers, flavored malt beverages and ciders, steeped in centuries of brewing heritage. Miller Brewing Company and Coors Brewing Company brew national favorites such as Miller Lite, Miller High Life, Coors Light and Coors Banquet. MillerCoors also proudly offers beers such as Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy from sixth-generation Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, and Blue Moon Belgian White from modern craft pioneer Blue Moon Brewing Company, founded in 1995. Beyond beer, MillerCoors operates Crispin Cider Company, an artisanal maker of pear and apple ciders using fresh-pressed American juice, and offers pioneering brands such as the Redd's franchise, Smith & Forge Hard Cider and Henry's Hard Sodas. Tenth and Blake Beer Company, our craft and import division, is the home to craft brewers Hop Valley Brewing, Revolver Brewing, Saint Archer Brewing Company and the Terrapin Beer Company. Tenth and Blake also imports world-renowned beers such as Italy's Peroni Nastro Azzurro, the Czech Republic's Pilsner Urquell and the Netherlands' Grolsch. MillerCoors, the U.S. business unit of the Molson Coors Brewing Company, has an uncompromising dedication to quality, a keen focus on innovation and a deep commitment to sustainability. Learn more at MillerCoors.com, at facebook.com/MillerCoors or on Twitter at @MillerCoors.
SOURCE MillerCoors
Related Links
https://www.millercoors.com/
BEIJING, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Beijing Hosen Investment Management, LLP ("Hosen Capital"), a leading private equity firm focused on consumption driven opportunities in food and agribusiness, announced today that it has completed a final closing for Hosen Fund III, ("Fund III"), with total investor commitments of $440 million.
The oversubscribed fund experienced significant demand and closed after eight months in the market with support from a diverse range of institutional investors from the U.S., Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Eaton Partners, a Stifel Company, served as advisor and exclusive fund placement agent, and Clifford Chance acted as legal counsel to Hosen in the offering of Fund III.
"We are humbled to have received tremendous support from such a quality group of investors," said Alex Zhang, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Hosen Capital. "With the closing of Fund III, we are very well positioned and appropriately resourced to continue to capitalize on fundamental mid-market opportunities in the global food and agribusiness value chain that are helping to drive consumption and growth in China, where today food represents almost a quarter of household expenditures."
"I have witnessed the meticulous focus, hard work and development of the Hosen team over the last five years," said Chris Lerner, Partner and Head of Asia at Eaton Partners. "The successful closing of Fund III is a testament to Hosen's reputation and track record as a leading investor and value add partner in the food space. We're excited to see Hosen execute on this burgeoning market opportunity as strong fiduciaries for investors in the coming years."
About Hosen Capital
Hosen Capital is headquartered in Beijing and has additional offices in Chengdu, Shanghai and Guangzhou. The firm has $2.31 billion in assets under management and focuses on investments in companies in the food and agribusiness-related companies that are either directly located in China or are directly involved in meeting demand on the Chinese market. Hosen Capital was founded by Chris Wang and Alex Zhang and sponsored by New Hope Group, a leading agribusiness conglomerate in China. For more information, please visit www.hosencapital.com.
About Eaton Partners, LLC
With over 60 professionals across offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, the firm raises institutional capital for investment managers across a full range of alternative strategies: private equity, private credit, real assets, real estate, and hedge funds/public market strategies. Partnering with a select number of the highest-quality fund managers, Eaton Partners has represented some of the most innovative funds of the last three decades. With extensive institutional relationships, deep sector knowledge, and fresh insights, Eaton Partners is dedicated to every client's success and we have proudly won Private Equity International's "Placement Agent of the Year in Asia" for the past two years. In January 2016, Eaton Partners became a wholly owned subsidiary and affiliate of Stifel Financial Corp., a leading middle-market investment bank, to further ensure Eaton's success at the highest level of the global placement business.
Eaton Partners, LLC, is a registered broker-dealer and a member of FINRA. It is registered as an Introducing Broker with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and is a member of the National Futures Association (NFA). Eaton Partners (UK) LLP is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Eaton Partners Advisors (HK) Limited is approved as a Type 1 License company under the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) in Hong Kong. Eaton Partners and the Eaton partners logo are trademarks of Eaton Partners, LLC, a limited liability company Eaton Partners, LLC, 2017. Eaton Partners, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary and affiliate of Stifel Financial Corp.
Media Contact for Eaton Partners:
Dukas Linden Public Relations
212-704-7385
[email protected]
SOURCE Eaton Partners, LLC; Hosen Capital
Related Links
http://www.eatonpartnersllc.com
NEW YORK, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Levi & Korsinsky announces it has commenced an investigation of Omega Protein Corporation (NYSE: OME) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws. On March 1, 2017, post-market, Omega disclosed that the Company had received a subpoena from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission seeking information in connection with an investigation of an Omega subsidiary's compliance with its probation terms and the Company's protection of whistleblower employees. Following this news, shares of Omega were down more than 23% on intraday trading on March 2, 2017. To obtain additional information, go to:
http://zlk.9nl.com/omega-protein-ome
or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. either via email at [email protected] or by telephone at (212) 363-7500, toll-free: (877) 363-5972.
Levi & Korsinsky is a national firm with offices in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Washington D.C. The firm's attorneys have extensive expertise in prosecuting securities litigation involving financial fraud, representing investors throughout the nation in securities and shareholder lawsuits. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
Eduard Korsinsky, Esq.
30 Broad Street - 24th Floor
New York, NY 10004
Tel: (212) 363-7500
Toll Free: (877) 363-5972
Fax: (212) 363-7171
www.zlk.com
SOURCE Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
Related Links
http://www.zlk.com
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- To support local communities and invest in the future of agriculture, Bayer and the LibertyLink system are donating $50,000 to select state FFA organizations for their participation in the Real Yield Sweepstakes. The Iowa FFA Foundation finished the competition in first place, earning a $14,515 donation.
2016 is the second running of the Real Yield Sweepstakes. To enter, soybean and cotton growers signed up online and at industry trade shows. State FFA chapters helped recruit registrants, earning a donation for each entry from their respective state.
The Iowa FFA Foundation registered 724 grower entries, more than double the runner-up chapter, and made up 29 percent of the overall entries. This is the second consecutive year Iowa FFA has won the Real Yield Sweepstakes. Bayer will present the group with a check during the 2017 Commodity Classic show in San Antonio.
"We are proud and excited to once again partner with Bayer in the Real Yield Sweepstakes," said Joshua Remington, executive director of the Iowa FFA Foundation. "We experienced a significant amount of budget cuts over the last nine months. Bayer heard us, wanted to help and took meaningful action. This donation is a tremendous gift to our organization."
The Iowa FFA Foundation used a multi-faceted campaign to encourage grower participation. Members passed out promotional materials during Farm Progress Show, developed email newsletters, aired radio spots and posted on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.
"Congratulations to the Iowa FFA Foundation for winning the Real Yield Sweepstakes for the second consecutive year. Their hard work reflects in this $14,515 donation," said Joe Vaillancourt, Bayer soybean campaign manager. "I have no doubt it will lead to many excellent opportunities for their members now and in the future."
Nine other state FFA organizations will share in the $50,000 contribution:
Illinois: $6,856
North Dakota: $5,654
Minnesota: $4,651
Ohio : $4,571
: $4,571 Texas: $3,889
Indiana: $2,706
Nebraska: $2,466
Missouri: $2,346
North Carolina: $2,346
For more information about the LibertyLink system, please visit https://www.bayercropscience.us/products/traits/libertylink.
Bayer is committed to bringing new technology and solutions for agriculture and non-agricultural uses. For questions concerning the availability and use of products, contact a local Bayer representative, or visit Crop Science, a division of Bayer, online at www.cropscience.bayer.us.
Visit the Bayer Connect - Social Hub for social media, recent news, blog posts, videos and more from Crop Science, a division of Bayer.
Bayer: Science For A Better Life
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the Life Science fields of health care and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life. At the same time, the Group aims to create value through innovation, growth and high earning power. Bayer is committed to the principles of sustainable development and to its social and ethical responsibilities as a corporate citizen. In fiscal 2016, the Group employed around 115,200 people and had sales of EUR 46.8 billion. Capital expenditures amounted to EUR 2.6 billion, R&D expenses to EUR 4.7 billion. These figures include those for the high-tech polymers business, which was floated on the stock market as an independent company named Covestro on October 6, 2015. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer Group or subgroup management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer's public reports which are available on the Bayer website at www.cropscience.bayer.us. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.
2017 Bayer CropScience LP, 2 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. Always read and follow label instructions. Bayer, the Bayer Cross, and LibertyLink are registered trademarks of Bayer. For additional product information, call toll-free 1-866-99-BAYER (1-866-992-2937) or visit our website at www.cropscience.bayer.us.
SOURCE Bayer
Related Links
http://www.bayer.com
TROY, Mich., March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- KIRCO & KIRCO MANIX recently broke ground on a new state-of-the-art manufacturing and R&D facility for Oerlikon at 41144 Concept Drive in Plymouth Township, Mich. The 80,000 square foot building will house approximately 70 employees and represents over $50 million of new investment into the community. Oerlikon has signed a long-term lease with KIRCO & KIRCO MANIX, the development and construction partner on the project.
"We're excited to team up with Oerlikon on this marque project, it's been a true partnership from the beginning," said Adam D. Manix, director - Business Development for KIRCO MANIX. "We take pride in our ability to handle highly complex corporate build-to-suit projects. Our continued success is a testament to our great people and the suite of vertically-integrated services we provide."
"Part of the reason we selected KIRCO MANIX for this project was due to the fact each member of the management team is well qualified to cover their area of responsibility and each exhibited a high-level of confidence for managing cost, schedule, quality and safety on large, technically complicated projects," said Richard Plautz, senior project manager, Oerlikon. "In addition, the team consisted of members who have been with the company for a long time, who not only care about each other, but also their customers."
The new facility will strengthen Oerlikon's position in the additive manufacturing, 3-D printing, and high-end surface coating markets. They will be producing advanced titanium alloys and high-end thermal spray powders which will then be packaged and shipped to automotive, aerospace, agricultural, and medical customers around the world. The high-tech lab area will allow for the research and development of titanium and other alloys such as nickel, copper, iron and cobalt. The facility is expected to be ready for occupancy by Spring of 2018.
About Oerlikon
Oerlikon (SIX: OERL) is a leading global technology Group, with a clear strategy of becoming a global powerhouse in surface solutions, advanced materials and materials processing. The Group is committed to investing in value-bringing technologies that provide customers with lighter, more durable materials that are able to increase performance, improve efficiency and reduce the use of scarce resources. A Swiss company with over 100 years of tradition, Oerlikon has a global footprint of over 13 500 employees at more than 170 locations in 37 countries and sales of CHF 2.7 billion in 2015. The company invested CHF 103 million in R&D in 2015 and has over 1 350 specialists developing innovative and customer-oriented products and services.
About KIRCO
KIRCO is an award winning, full service, vertically-integrated commercial real estate organization. Having planned and developed over 30 million square feet, KIRCO is a major developer of build-to-suit own or lease properties coast to coast. The company's vertically-integrated structure, including development, construction and property management, works together as one extraordinary unit to bring out the best in every project in which it plays a role. KIRCO is third-generation family owned and operated, and has expertise in the office, industrial, retail, senior living and healthcare sectors. Founded in 1974, KIRCO is headquartered in Troy, Michigan with presence in Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina and Alabama.
About KIRCO MANIX
KIRCO MANIX provides construction management services in office, light and heavy manufacturing, distribution, retail, healthcare and community market sectors. The company has operated throughout the region since 1929 and combines the experience of two well-established construction firms, Campbell / Manix and KIRCO Construction. With total construction volume exceeding $3 billion, KIRCO MANIX offers customers a unique, full-service approach by managing the design, engineering and construction phase through the eyes of an owner.
For more information, please visit www.kircomanix.com or call 248.354.5100.
SOURCE KIRCO
"We are delighted to have attracted such an exceptional executive to lead The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts," said Burns Hargis, president of OSU. "We are pleased Mark is onboard. He has a deep appreciation for the arts and shares our vision to create a premier center of excellence for the benefit of students, faculty and the broader community."
Prior to his three-year tenure leading the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, Blakeman was the chief operating officer of the Nashville Symphony Orchestra, where he worked for 15 years. He brings vast knowledge and direct experience overseeing large-scale construction projects, building programs and raising philanthropic support.
"Serving as the Marilynn and Carl Thoma Executive Director for The McKnight Center is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create programs, productions and experiences for a spectacular new first-class center at a university with a heart for the arts," said Blakeman. "The support for the center is incredible as underscored by the remarkable gifts from several individuals, including Billie and Ross McKnight and the Thomas. They have given a wonderful gift, and I am eager to do my part to ensure The McKnight Center becomes a vital part of OSU, Stillwater and beyond."
Blakeman also noted one added benefit his new position provides a way for him and his family to return home to Oklahoma. "My love for the performing arts was born in Oklahoma through its rich musical heritage. I am honored that this new position will allow me to help celebrate and elevate that tradition," said Blakeman, a native of Moore, Oklahoma.
Hargis praised the Thomas for their gift, which made possible the hiring of an executive director of Blakeman's caliber. "We are deeply grateful to the Thomas for their generous and visionary gift. Marilynn and Carl are distinguished art patrons who know from their own experiences how the arts truly enrich lives."
The Thomas are noted philanthropists and art collectors. After successful careers in brand management and private equity, they established the Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation in 1986 to fulfill their passion for philanthropy.
"Marilynn and I believe in the power of the arts to connect people and enrich learning," commented Carl Thoma. "When we heard about The McKnight Center and the innovative vision driving its programming, we wanted to get involved. Supporting this position and bringing in a prestigious leader like Mark was critical to us. We are confident Mark will bring the inspirational leadership necessary to create a robust, invigorating center. We are excited about the future of The McKnight Center, which will enrich the university and community, and will have far-reaching impact on a national level."
The Thomas added that the McKnights' $25 million gift to create the programming endowment will ensure world-class programming, musicians and artists come to Stillwater. "Both Oklahoma State University and Oklahoma are so fortunate for Billie and Ross' leadership in making the center possible."
As the Marilynn and Carl Thoma Executive Director, Blakeman will work with the McKnight Foundation Board of Trustees and provide strategic direction and oversight to The McKnight Center. His scope of responsibility will include branding and institutional visibility, revenue enhancement, strategic planning, outreach, governance and financial management. One of his first tasks is to schedule the inaugural season and grand opening of The McKnight Center, which includes interfacing with the New York Philharmonic to develop and implement its residency partnership that was announced last September. It will be the first time in more than 30 years that the internationally celebrated organization will perform in Oklahoma.
In addition to multiple New York Philharmonic performances at The McKnight Center, the residency partnership will include educational opportunities for OSU students with Philharmonic musicians and management such as masterclasses, audition workshops and lectures.
The 93,000-square-foot McKnight Center is expected to open in October 2019. It will stand prominently along the southwest corner of University Avenue and Hester Street within walking distance of the Student Union, the Atherton Hotel and the ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center. For more information, visit: McKnightCenter.okstate.edu
CONTACTS:
Jennifer Kinnard | OSU Foundation | 405-385-5185 | [email protected]
Gary Shutt | OSU Communications | 405-612-5757 | [email protected]
The McKnight Foundation exists to manage and operate The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Construction of The McKnight Center has begun and is scheduled for completion in 2019. The McKnight Foundation is governed by a seven-member board of trustees and an executive director. The foundation will be engaged for the operation and programming of The McKnight Center. An aggressive fundraising campaign is underway to supplement construction costs and complete the innovative programming endowment.
The Oklahoma State University Foundation, the private fundraising organization for OSU, exists to unite donor and university passions and priorities to achieve excellence. The Foundation manages donor contributions so the university can provide the most advanced educational opportunities for students. From scholarships to community programs to important research, OSU donors generously support the spirit and legacy of the university's land-grant mission. OSU is experiencing an ongoing transformation, and all gifts ensure this tradition of excellence continues.
Oklahoma State University is a modern land-grant university that prepares students for success. OSU has more than 36,000 students across its five-campus system and more than 25,000 on its combined Stillwater and Tulsa campuses, with students from all 50 states and around 120 nations. Established in 1890, OSU has graduated more than 260,000 students who have been serving Oklahoma and the world for 125 years.
SOURCE McKnight Center for the Performing Arts at Oklahoma State University
LONDON, March 2, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Summary
This report provides all the information you require to better understand Merck KGaA and its partnering interests and activities since 2010.
Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/3605601/
Description
The Partnering Deals and Alliance since 2010 report provides an in-depth insight into the partnering activity of one of the world's leading life sciences companies.
On demand company reports are prepared upon purchase to ensure inclusion of the most up to date deal and company data.
The report will be delivered in PDF format within 1 working day of receipt of order. If the CD-Rom version purchased, the report will be sent by courier using express service.
One of the key aspects of partnering is finding those companies that are potential candidates for the development and commercialization of the next generation of therapies. A lot of resources are spent on finding partners, identifying their interests and making contact to initiate discussions.
Using this report, dealmakers will effectively and efficiently target their partnering activities to deliver the company's business development objectives.
The initial chapters of this report provide an orientation of deal making and business activities. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the report, whilst chapter 2 lists the top companies partnering with the company since 2010. Chapter 3 provides an overview of the leading partnering and M&A deals since 2010 to present date based on headline value.
Chapter 4 provides details on how to approach biopharma companies with partnering opportunities whilst chapter 5 lists forthcoming partnering events and conferences where biopharma companies will be present to discuss opportunities face to face.
The main body of the report is provided in chapter 6 providing a infographic visual summary of the company's partnering activity since 2010 according to deal type, industry sector, phase of development, and therapy area.
The deals are listed by deal type, stage of development and therapy focus, allowing easy access to deals and alliances of interest. Every deal record links to an online, live version of the deal record at the Current Agreements deals and alliances database. Where available, deal records also include the contract document as disclosed at the SEC.
One of the key aspects of partnering is conducting due diligence on a partner to determine under what terms a prospective partner agrees to a partnering relationship.
Understanding the flexibility of prospective partners' negotiated deals terms provides critical insight into the negotiation process in terms of what you can expect to achieve during the negotiation of terms. Whilst many smaller companies will be seeking details of the payments clauses, the devil is in the detail in terms of how payments are triggered contract documents provide this insight where press releases and databases do not.
In addition, contract documents provide the answers to numerous questions about a prospective partner's flexibility on a wide range of important issues, many of which will have a significant impact on each party's ability to derive value from the deal.
Each contract document is accessible through a link to an online version of the actual contract document as filed with the Securities Exchange Commission.
Analyzing actual company agreements allows assessment of the following:
- What is actually granted by the agreement to the partner company?
- What exclusivity is granted?
- What is the payment structure for the deal?
- How are sales and payments audited?
- What is the deal term?
- How are the key terms of the agreement defined?
- How are IPRs handled and owned?
- Who is responsible for commercialization?
- Who is responsible for development, supply, and manufacture?
- How is confidentiality and publication managed?
- How are disputes to be resolved?
- Under what conditions can the deal be terminated?
- What happens when there is a change of ownership?
- What sublicensing and sub-contracting provisions have been agreed?
- Which boilerplate clauses does the company insist upon?
- Which boilerplate clauses appear to differ from partner to partner or deal type to deal type?
- Which jurisdiction does the company insist upon for agreement law?
Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/3605601/
About Reportbuyer
Reportbuyer is a leading industry intelligence solution that provides all market research reports from top publishers
http://www.reportbuyer.com
For more information:
Sarah Smith
Research Advisor at Reportbuyer.com
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +44 208 816 85 48
Website: www.reportbuyer.com
SOURCE ReportBuyer
Related Links
http://www.reportbuyer.com
DUBLIN, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Milestone Aviation Group Limited ("Milestone"), the global leader in helicopter leasing, announced today that it will provide two AW139 helicopters from its order book with Leonardo Helicopters to Norsk Luftambulanse AS ("NLA") to support emergency medical services (HEMS) in Norway. In July, Norway's National Air Ambulance Service awarded NLA with a six-year contract (with a further 2x two-year extension options) to operate all twelve HEMS bases in Norway.
"We are very proud to have supported NLA in its successful bid to provide air ambulance services to the people of Norway," said Milestone Executive Vice President Robert Dranitzke. "The Norwegian government conducted a very comprehensive process to ensure that Norway would be served with a robust and modern HEMS, and its choice is a testament to NLA's reputation as a trusted and skilled operator. We look forward to continuing to work with NLA as they serve this essential function for the Norwegian people in the years to come."
"Milestone is a strong and creative partner, and their flexibility was greatly valued in helping us win this important contract to provide high-quality and reliable helicopter ambulance service to patients across Norway," said Rune Midtgaard, CEO. "Throughout a competitive bidding process, Milestone worked collaboratively to develop the optimal lease structure that matched the requirements of our end-user, the Norwegian government. As we look forward to the critical tasks ahead, we know our partnership with Milestone will continue to benefit the people of Norway, as we bring improved technology and additional capacity to Norway's HEMS."
About Milestone Aviation Group
Milestone Aviation Group, a GE Capital Aviation Services company, is the world's leading helicopter leasing and financing company. Milestone has a fleet of helicopters worth over US $4.0 billion plus debt commitments of approximately $400 million. The company has a forward order book of firm and option aircraft with an estimated aggregate purchase price in excess of US $3 billion. Milestone partners with helicopter operators worldwide, providing a wide array of financial and productivity solutions, including operating leases, purchase/leasebacks, secured debt financing, engine leasing and fleet advisory. The company supports over 35 customers in more than 30 countries serving a variety of industries, including offshore oil and gas, search and rescue, emergency medical services, police surveillance, mining and other utility missions. www.milestoneaviation.com
About GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS)
GECAS is a world leader in aviation leasing and financing with 50 years of experience. The GECAS portfolio comprises a wide range of aircraft types including narrowbodies, widebodies, regional jets, turboprops, freighters and helicopters. GECAS offers multiple financing products and services including operating leases, purchase/leasebacks, secured debt financing, capital markets, engine leasing, airframe parts management and airport/airline consulting. GECAS owns or services a fleet of over 1,950 aircraft (~1,700 fixed wing/ ~250 rotary wing) in operation or on order, plus provides loans collateralized on an additional ~400 aircraft. GECAS serves ~ 270 customers in over 75 countries from a network of 25 offices. www.gecas.com
GE (NYSE: GE) is the world's Digital Industrial Company, transforming industry with software-defined machines and solutions that are connected, responsive and predictive. GE is organized around a global exchange of knowledge, the "GE Store," through which each business shares and accesses the same technology, markets, structure and intellect. Each invention further fuels innovation and application across our industrial sectors. With people, services, technology and scale, GE delivers better outcomes for customers by speaking the language of industry. www.ge.com
About Norsk Luftambulanse AS
Norsk Luftambulanse AS ("NLA") is a Norwegian HEMS operator currently serving nine of Norway's twelve HEMS bases. In addition NLA operates all three HEMS bases in Denmark. The company is owned by Norway's largest non-profit membership organization with over 700,000 members, the Norwegian Air Ambulance Foundation that is committed to saving lives by strengthening the air ambulance service through research, education and development.
Media Contact for Milestone:
Nathan Riggs
of Kekst and Company
+1-212-521-4804
[email protected]
SOURCE Milestone Aviation Group
Related Links
http://www.milestoneaviation.com
LONDON, March 2, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Summary
This report provides all the information you require to better understand Mitsubishi Tanabe and its partnering interests and activities since 2010.
Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/3605602/
Description
The Partnering Deals and Alliance since 2010 report provides an in-depth insight into the partnering activity of one of the world's leading life sciences companies.
On demand company reports are prepared upon purchase to ensure inclusion of the most up to date deal and company data.
The report will be delivered in PDF format within 1 working day of receipt of order. If the CD-Rom version purchased, the report will be sent by courier using express service.
One of the key aspects of partnering is finding those companies that are potential candidates for the development and commercialization of the next generation of therapies. A lot of resources are spent on finding partners, identifying their interests and making contact to initiate discussions.
Using this report, dealmakers will effectively and efficiently target their partnering activities to deliver the company's business development objectives.
The initial chapters of this report provide an orientation of deal making and business activities. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the report, whilst chapter 2 lists the top companies partnering with the company since 2010. Chapter 3 provides an overview of the leading partnering and M&A deals since 2010 to present date based on headline value.
Chapter 4 provides details on how to approach biopharma companies with partnering opportunities whilst chapter 5 lists forthcoming partnering events and conferences where biopharma companies will be present to discuss opportunities face to face.
The main body of the report is provided in chapter 6 providing a infographic visual summary of the company's partnering activity since 2010 according to deal type, industry sector, phase of development, and therapy area.
The deals are listed by deal type, stage of development and therapy focus, allowing easy access to deals and alliances of interest. Every deal record links to an online, live version of the deal record at the Current Agreements deals and alliances database. Where available, deal records also include the contract document as disclosed at the SEC.
One of the key aspects of partnering is conducting due diligence on a partner to determine under what terms a prospective partner agrees to a partnering relationship.
Understanding the flexibility of prospective partners' negotiated deals terms provides critical insight into the negotiation process in terms of what you can expect to achieve during the negotiation of terms. Whilst many smaller companies will be seeking details of the payments clauses, the devil is in the detail in terms of how payments are triggered contract documents provide this insight where press releases and databases do not.
In addition, contract documents provide the answers to numerous questions about a prospective partner's flexibility on a wide range of important issues, many of which will have a significant impact on each party's ability to derive value from the deal.
Each contract document is accessible through a link to an online version of the actual contract document as filed with the Securities Exchange Commission.
Analyzing actual company agreements allows assessment of the following:
- What is actually granted by the agreement to the partner company?
- What exclusivity is granted?
- What is the payment structure for the deal?
- How are sales and payments audited?
- What is the deal term?
- How are the key terms of the agreement defined?
- How are IPRs handled and owned?
- Who is responsible for commercialization?
- Who is responsible for development, supply, and manufacture?
- How is confidentiality and publication managed?
- How are disputes to be resolved?
- Under what conditions can the deal be terminated?
- What happens when there is a change of ownership?
- What sublicensing and sub-contracting provisions have been agreed?
- Which boilerplate clauses does the company insist upon?
- Which boilerplate clauses appear to differ from partner to partner or deal type to deal type?
- Which jurisdiction does the company insist upon for agreement law?
Download the full report: https://www.reportbuyer.com/product/3605602/
About Reportbuyer
Reportbuyer is a leading industry intelligence solution that provides all market research reports from top publishers
http://www.reportbuyer.com
For more information:
Sarah Smith
Research Advisor at Reportbuyer.com
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +44 208 816 85 48
Website: www.reportbuyer.com
SOURCE ReportBuyer
Related Links
http://www.reportbuyer.com
LONDON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
2016 saw a near-threefold rise in mobile malware detections compared to 2015 - with a total of 8.5 million malicious installations identified. This means that, in the space of just one year, a volume equivalent to 50 per cent of all the malware detected in the previous 11 years (15.77 million in 2004 - 2015) was released. Leading the way were mobile advertising Trojans which now make up 16 of the top 20 malicious programs, up from 12 in 2015. These are the findings of Kaspersky Lab's annual Mobile Virusology report, which also highlights the evolution of mobile banking Trojans. Specialist officers from INTERPOL's Global Complex for Innovation have contributed an analysis of mobile malware on the Dark Web to the report.
In 2016, Kaspersky Lab mobile security products reported:
Nearly 40 million attack attempts by mobile malware, with over 4 million users of Android-based devices protected (vs 2.6 million in 2015)
Over 260,000 detections of installation packages for mobile ransomware Trojans (an increase of almost 8.5 times, year-on-year)
More than 153,000 unique users targeted by mobile ransomware (an increase of 1.6 times compared with 2015)
Over 128,000 mobile banking Trojans detected (nearly 1.6 times more than in 2015)
Advertising Trojan: is your device already rooted?
The most widespread type of Trojan in 2016 was the advertising variety, accounting for 16 of the top 20 malware programs
These Trojans are capable of seizing rooting rights, allowing the malware to not only aggressively display ads on the infected device, often making it impossible to use, but also to secretly install other applications. These Trojans can also buy apps on Google Play.
In many cases, the Trojans were able to exploit previously patched vulnerabilities because the user had not installed the latest update.
Further, this malware simultaneously installs its modules in the system directory, which makes the treatment of the infected device very difficult. Some advertising Trojans are even able to infect the recovery image, making it impossible to solve the problem by restoring the device to factory settings.
Representatives of this class of malicious software have been repeatedly found in the official Google Play app store, for example, masquerading as a guide for Pokemon GO. In this case, the app was downloaded over 500,000 times, and is detected as a Trojan.AndroidOS.Ztorg.ad.
Mobile ransomware: further development
In 2016, 153,258 unique users from 167 countries were attacked by Trojan-Ransom programs; this is 1.6 times more than in 2015.
Modern ransomware overlays windows with demand messages, thus making it impossible to use the device. This principle was used by the most popular mobile ransomware program in 2016 - Trojan-Ransom.AndroidOS.Fusob.
This Trojan mostly attacks users in Germany, the US and the UK, but avoids users from the CIS and some neighboring countries. Once launched, it runs a check of the device language and, after achieving some results, it may stop execution. The cybercriminals behind the Trojan usually demand between $100 and $200 to unblock a device. The ransom has to be paid using codes from pre-paid iTunes cards.
Mobile banking Trojan: a skyrocketing threat
In 2016, over 305,000 users in 164 countries were attacked by mobile banking Trojans, compared with over 56,000 users in 137 countries the previous year.
Russia , Australia and Ukraine are the top 3 countries affected in terms of the percentage of users attacked by mobile banking Trojans relative to all users hit by mobile malware.
Mobile banking Trojans continued to evolve through the year. Many of them gained tools to bypass the new Android security mechanisms and were able to continue stealing user information from the most recent versions of the OS. At the same time, the developers of mobile banking Trojans repeatedly enhanced their creations with new capabilities. For instance, the Marcher family, in addition to implementing the usual banking applications' overlay, redirected users from financial institutions' websites to phishing pages.
The Dark Web delusion
According to specialist officers from INTERPOL's Global Complex for Innovation, who have also contributed to the report, the Dark Web remains an attractive medium for conducting illicit businesses and activities. Given its robust anonymity, low prices and client-oriented strategy, the Dark Web provides a means for criminal actors to communicate and engage in commercial transactions, buying and selling various products and services, including mobile malware kits. Mobile malware is offered for sale as software packages (e.g. remote access Trojans - RATs), individual solutions and sophisticated tools, like those developed by professional firms or, on a smaller scale, as part of a 'Bot as a Service' model. Mobile malware is also a 'subject of interest' on vendor shops, forums and social media.
"In 2016, the growth in the number of advertising Trojans capable of exploiting super-user rights continued. Throughout the year, it was the top threat and we see no sign of this trend changing. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the fact that most devices do not receive OS updates (or receive them late), and are thus vulnerable to old, well-known and readily available exploits. Moreover, we see that the mobile landscape is getting a little crowded for cybercriminals, and they are beginning to interact more with the world beyond smartphones. Perhaps in 2017 we will see major attacks on IoT components launched from mobile devices," concludes Roman Unuchek, Senior Malware Analyst at Kaspersky Lab USA.
To learn more about the mobile malware evolution in 2016, read the blog post available at Securelist.com.
About Kaspersky Lab
Kaspersky Lab is a global cybersecurity company founded in 1997. Kaspersky Lab's deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into security solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection and a number of specialised security solutions and services to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky Lab technologies and we help 270,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them.
Learn more at www.kaspersky.co.uk
Editorial contact:
Berkeley Global
Lauren White
[email protected]
Telephone: +44-(0)-118-909-0909
1650 Arlington Business Park
RG7 4SA, Reading
Kaspersky Lab UK
Stephanie Fergusson
[email protected]
Telephone: +44-(0)-771-410-7292
2 Kingdom Street
W2 6BD, London
SOURCE Kaspersky Lab
DALLAS, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- NexPoint Capital, Inc. (the "Company"), a non-traded publicly registered business development company and affiliate of Highland Capital Management, L.P., today announced that it will commence a voluntary tender offer on or about March 3, 2017 (the "Tender Offer") for up to 2.5% of its outstanding common stock ("Shares") at a price equal to 90% of the offering price per Share in effect on the Expiration Date (as defined in the Offer to Purchase) (the date of repurchase) and any unpaid dividends accrued through the expiration date of the Tender Offer.
This announcement is not a recommendation, an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell Shares of the Company. The Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission a tender offer statement on Schedule TO and related exhibits, including an offer to purchase, a related letter of transmittal and other related documents (the "Tender Offer Documents"). The Tender Offer Documents will be sent by mail to holders of the Shares. Shareholders of the Company may obtain additional copies of the Tender Offer Documents for the Company, without charge, by contacting the Tender Agent for the Tender Offer, DST Systems, Inc., at 1-844-485-9167. Shareholders can also obtain the Tender Offer Documents free of charge on the Securities and Exchange Commission's website at www.sec.gov. Shareholders should read these documents and related exhibits, as the documents contain important information about the Company's Tender Offer.
Any questions regarding the Tender Offer can be directed to the Company's Tender Agent, DST Systems, Inc., at 1-844-485-9167. The Company's current offering price for its Shares, $10.66 per share as of March 1, 2017, as well as other information, including information about management and the healthcare-focused investment strategy, are available at http://nexpointcapital.com. The information on or accessible through http://nexpointcapital.com is not incorporated by reference herein.
About NexPoint Advisors and NexPoint Capital, Inc.
NexPoint Capital, Inc. is a healthcare-focused business development company sponsored and managed by NexPoint Advisors, L.P., an affiliate of Highland Capital Management, L.P. NexPoint Advisors, L.P., is an SEC-registered investment advisor to the closed end fund, NexPoint Credit Strategies Fund.
About Highland Capital Management, L.P.
Highland Capital Management, L.P. is an SEC-registered investment adviser which, together with our affiliates, has approximately $14.85 billion of assets under management. Founded in 1993 by Jim Dondero and Mark Okada, Highland is one of the largest and most experienced global alternative credit managers. Highland specializes in credit strategies, such as credit hedge funds, long only funds and separate accounts, distressed and special situation private equity, and collateralized loan obligations (CLOs). Highland also offers alternative investments, including emerging markets, long/short equities, and natural resources. Highland's diversified client base includes public pension plans, foundations, endowments, corporations, financial institutions, fund of funds, governments, and high net-worth individuals. Highland is headquartered in Dallas, Texas and maintains offices in New York, Sao Paolo, Singapore, and Seoul.
Except for the historical information and discussions contained herein, statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements. These statements may involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, including the performance of financial markets, the investment performance of NexPoint Advisors, L.P.'s or Highland Capital Management L.P.'s sponsored investment products, general economic conditions, future acquisitions, competitive conditions and government regulations, including changes in tax laws. Readers should carefully consider such factors. Further, such forward-looking statements speak only on the date at which such statements are made. NexPoint Advisors, L.P. and Highland Capital Management L.P. undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statement.
This material has been distributed for informational purposes only and should not be considered as investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security, strategy or investment product. Neither the Company, nor the Company's Board of Directors, nor NexPoint Advisors, L.P., makes any recommendation as to whether to tender or not to tender any Shares in the Tender Offer. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form, or referred to in any other publication, without express written permission.
For information on the Tender Offer:
Financial Advisors: 855-498-1580
Shareholders: 844-485-9167
Highland Media Relations: 972-419-6272
SOURCE NexPoint Capital, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.nexpointcapital.com
HONG KONG, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Nord Anglia Education, Inc. (NYSE: NORD), the world's leading premium schools organization, announced today that it has entered into two separate agreements to acquire two international schools in Europe and the Middle East.
In aggregate the two schools currently educate more than 4,400 full time equivalent students from age three to 18, with capacity of over 4,800 seats. The combined consideration for the two schools is expected to be approximately $147 million and is within Nord Anglia Education's targeted range of 7-10x EBITDA for each school.
Nord Anglia Education expects both transactions to complete over the next two months and will update its fiscal 2017 guidance and provide further details on each of the schools when they close. The acquisitions are subject to customary closing conditions and Nord Anglia Education notes that there is no assurance that the closing conditions will be satisfied.
Andrew Fitzmaurice, CEO of Nord Anglia Education, commented, "We are pleased to announce the anticipated expansion of our network with the addition of these two leading international schools. Both schools are recognised for their high quality educational offer and track records of academic excellence. As part of our family, they will be able to enhance the learning opportunities available to their students and teachers through our innovative programmes, including collaborations with The Juilliard School and MIT. Nord Anglia Education continues to have an active pipeline of excellent acquisition opportunities to further expand our global network."
Upon completion, the addition of these two schools will expand Nord Anglia Education's global network to a total of 45 international schools, providing an outstanding education to more than 41,300 students in 16 countries.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes statements that express our current opinions, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or projections regarding future events or future results and therefore are, or may be deemed to be, "forward looking statements". These forward looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms "believe," "expect," "may," "will," "should," "seek," "project," "approximately," "intend," "plan," "estimate" or "anticipate," or, in each case, their negatives or other variations or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts.
By their nature, forward-looking statements relate to events that involve risks and uncertainties or that depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. We believe that these risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those under "Risk Factors" in our most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC.
Although we base these forward-looking statements on assumptions that we believe are reasonable when made, we caution you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that our actual results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, growth prospects, strategies and the development of the industry in which we operate may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. In addition, even if our results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, growth prospects, strategies and the development of the industry in which we operate, are consistent with the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, those results or developments may not be indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods. Given these risks and uncertainties, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement that we make in this press release speaks only as of the date of such statement, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of those statements to reflect future events or developments.
About Nord Anglia Education, Inc.
Nord Anglia Education (NYSE: NORD) is the world's leading premium schools organization. Our 43 international schools are located in China, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and North America. Together, they educate more than 37,000 students from kindergarten through to the end of secondary education. We are driven by one unifying philosophy we are ambitious of our students, our people and our family of schools. Our schools deliver a high quality education through a personalized approach enhanced with unique global opportunities to enable every student to succeed. We primarily operate in geographic markets with high foreign direct investment, large expatriate populations and rising disposable income. We believe that these factors contribute to high demand for premium schools and strong growth in our business. Nord Anglia Education is headquartered in Hong Kong SAR, China. Our website is www.nordangliaeducation.com.
For further information, please contact:
Investors:
Vanessa Cardonnel
Corporate Finance and Investor Relations Director Nord Anglia Education
Tel: +852 3951 1130
Email: [email protected]
John Rouleau
Managing Director, Investor Relations ICR
Tel: +1 203 682 8342
Email: [email protected]
Media:
Sarah Doyle
Head of Brand Nord Anglia Education
Tel: +852 3951 1144
Email: [email protected]
SOURCE Nord Anglia Education, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.nordangliaeducation.com
Led by Stuart Rich, MD , a pioneer in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension, the Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program is part of Northwestern Medicine's Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute .
"There is an urgent need for medical institutions to accurately diagnose, treat and provide support for pulmonary hypertension patients," said Dr. Rich, who is also a professor of medicine-cardiology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. "Our hope is that this accreditation helps us connect with healthcare professionals throughout the United States to ensure that more people living with pulmonary hypertension receive the correct diagnosis early and that they will get the very best care available."
With symptoms that include breathlessness, fatigue, dizziness, swollen ankles, fluid in the abdomen and chest pain, pulmonary hypertension patients may see several physicians before they receive an accurate diagnosis. The survival rate for patients who go untreated is less than three years. In addition, many patients are hospitalized due to complications and some require transplantation if therapies do not work. Pulmonary hypertension is a distinct condition from hypertension, or high blood pressure.
Carol Mazur, 61, of suburban Chicago, has pulmonary hypertension from a congenital heart defect that went undetected until she was 23 years old. When she was 38 years old, and the mother of two young children, she was told she had no more than five years to live because of the disease.
Looking for a second opinion, she met with Dr. Rich. He has now treated her for more than two decades.
Mazur described Dr. Rich as "really just open and honest."
"I have such great faith in the way he treats me," she said. "He looks at me as a whole person, not just as some little case. He's very calm and patient and smart in a practical way about what you should or should not do, or worry about or not worry about."
In its nearly 25 years, PHA's work has led to significant advances in pulmonary hypertension care. However, the association continues to fight for earlier and more accurate diagnosis. There are several causes of pulmonary hypertension, but because this is an uncommon disease, patients are often misdiagnosed or mistreated.
The PHA established this high-level recognition so that patients might know which centers have extraordinary expertise in this uncommon and fatal condition to improve overall quality of care and ultimately improve outcomes of patients with pulmonary hypertension, a rare and life-threatening group of diseases. Patients entering these centers can feel confident that they have been vetted by a rigorous process that includes a detailed application and a comprehensive site visit with ultimate adjudication by a committee of more than 20 health professionals with vast experience in caring for PH patients.
Northwestern's program was specifically acknowledged for its director's dedication to pulmonary hypertension as evidenced by his record of teaching and research efforts, excellent multidisciplinary team cohesion and communication providing comprehensive services and high quality care, and a support staff that is fully engaged in the care of their patients.
"At the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, we are always looking for the most advanced and most effective treatments for cardiovascular disease in its many forms," said Patrick McCarthy, MD, executive director of the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute. "Our cardiovascular care, from treatment of myocardial infarction to bypass surgery to pulmonary hypertension, is distinguished by a variety of different measures, including this recognition."
The Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute is part of the Northwestern Medicine health system, with multiple sites of care in Chicago and the region. Northwestern Memorial Hospital currently is ranked first in the United States for heart failure survival and second for survival of heart attack and stroke, the three most dire cardiovascular health threats. Northwestern Memorial Hospital's heart and heart surgery is ranked sixth nationally and first in Chicago, Illinois and the surrounding states by U.S. News & World Report.
For more information or to make an appointment with a cardiovascular specialist, visit heart.nm.org.
For more information about Northwestern Medicine, visit news.nm.org/about-northwestern-medicine.html.
SOURCE Northwestern Medicine
NEW YORK, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The New York Republican Party today announced the appointment of esteemed business leader, political strategist, and philanthropist Yuri Vanetik as national finance co-chair who will help lead the Committee's national fundraising efforts in advance of the important 2017 New York City mayoral and 2018 gubernatorial elections.
In addition to his impressive business, public service and philanthropic accomplishments, Mr. Vanetik has deep ties as a national political activist and fundraiser, having held key finance leadership positions with the Republican National Committee, National Republican Congressional Committee, National Republican Senatorial Committee, Republican Governors Association and the California GOP. He also served as the California co-chair and All American Vice Chair for Rudy Giuliani's presidential campaign, as kitchen cabinet advisor and part of the finance leadership of Senator John McCain's presidential campaign, as well as numerous senior finance and leadership roles for gubernatorial, senatorial, and congressional campaigns, including that of Mitt Romney, Meg Whitman and Dana Rohrabacher.
"We are excited to welcome Yuri Vanetik to the NYGOP team as our national finance co-chair," said State Chairman Ed Cox. "One look at Yuri's impressive background and it's easy to see what a tremendous asset he will be to helping us grow the Republican Party here in New York. With fellow New Yorker President Trump in the White House and two top national races ahead of us, we have an incredible opportunity to build on our successes. New Yorkers have seen the failed leadership of Bill de Blasio and Andrew Cuomo, and Yuri's efforts will help ensure we have the resources we need to win."
"Whether in business, in politics or in charity, I've spent my life building coalitions and I'm honored to take on this important role for the New York Republican Party," said Yuri Vanetik. "Chairman Cox and the leaders across the state have built a strong bench of extraordinary Republican elected officials and played a critical role in securing President Trump's victory. Those successes have put us in a unique position to cultivate a national network and show how we are winning in traditionally Democratic areas, here in the state of New York. I'm looking forward to the work ahead," Vanetik pointed out.
Yuri Vanetik is the managing partner of Vanetik International, LLC, a private investment and business management firm based in Newport Beach, CA. Mr. Vanetik is also a principal at Dominion Partners LLP and Dominion Asset Management, LLC, a real estate investment fund based in Newport Beach and Beverly Hills, CA. He has held numerous public service positions, including as the current Commissioner of the Orange County Sheriff's Council, a deputy of the San Bernardino Sheriff's Department Special Services Bureau, a member of the Board of Governors of the Homeland Security Council for Region 1, and the former California Lottery Commissioner and Criminal Justice Commissioner, among others.
CONTACT: Jessica Proud, (914) 438-5325
SOURCE NYGOP
ATLANTA, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Even a nationwide Internet outage during the maiden voyage of a new simulcast bidding system couldn't dampen the enthusiasm of online bidders Tuesday as John Dixon & Associates sold scores of properties around the Southeast for more than $5 million.
"We had just upgraded to a new system for broadcasting our auctions and taking bids, and after a lot of test runs, we took it live for the first time -- just as nationwide outage of Amazon Web Services hit. Even so, about half our bidders were watching and bidding online, and about a third of the properties sold to those bidders," said John Dixon, president of the auction company.
"The outage affected the chat functions and video quality, but we worked around those issues, and the online bidders were a major part of a very successful auction that went well over $5 million, even with some sellers still deciding whether to accept bids on reserve properties. When you do live auctions for years, you learn to improvise," said Dixon. "It helped that we had a number of very nice properties to sell, including quality commercial buildings, and commercial and residential land. Our staff put a lot of work into offering a quality lineup, and we saw a renewed enthusiasm among bidders," he said.
Dixon noted that the company also has implemented new methods of tracking its marketing efforts. "The auction business slows down in December and January, and we spent that time putting new marketing techniques into place that will help us allocate marketing budgets to media that produce the most bidders. That will be very important to our sellers, who depend on us to use their marketing dollars wisely," said Dixon.
The company is currently evaluating properties for upcoming multi-seller auctions. Individuals, investors and companies seeking to sell real estate may visit www.johndixon.com or call 770-425-1141 for more information.
John Dixon & Associates, based in Marietta, Georgia, also has offices in Tallahassee, Clayton, North Carolina, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
John Dixon & Associates
For more information:
Carl Carter, 205-823-3273
SOURCE John Dixon & Associates
Related Links
http://www.johndixon.com
BRUSSELS, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --
A conference titled 'Opposition against CPEC in Pakistan' was held at the European Parliament in Brussels on March 1, 2017. Hosted by Members of the European Parliament and the Baluchistan House, the conference was aimed at highlighting the deep-seated antipathy to the project among the residents of Gilgit-Baltistan, Sindh and Baluchistan, three Pakistani provinces through which the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes.
Among the speakers representing the various regions in Pakistan were Mehran Baluch (Baluch Representative to the EU), Rubina Greenwood (Chairperson, World Sindhi Congress) and Wajahat Hassan (G-B leader-in-exile and Head of the Gilgit-Baltistan Thinkers Forum). The MEPs who spoke on this occasion were Fulvio Martusciello and Alberto Cirio, and Paulo Casaca, Executive Director of the South Asia Development Forum, moderated the event.
The conference commenced with a documentary film that showed how the CPEC was negatively impacting the lives of locals all along its route due to the loss of jobs, environmental degradation, forced displacement and increase in Army deployment and control.
In his opening remarks, Paulo Casaca said that though the CPEC was touted as a game-changer by both Pakistan and China, the reality was far removed from that. He also highlighted the fact that the projects under the CPEC were being built largely against the will of the locals of Baluchistan, Sindh and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Baluch representative Mehran Baloch opined that the construction of the CPEC in Baluchistan and Gilgit-Baltistan was illegal, as Baluchistan was territory occupied by Pakistan and Gilgit-Baltistan was disputed territory, even as per Pakistan's Constitution. He further stated that the CPEC was being used to suppress the Baloch identity and culture, and the Pakistani government was subtly pursuing a policy of changing the demography of the province. He added that on the pretext of the CPEC, there was a deliberate move by the government to bring in and re-settle Punjabis and Chinese nationals in the region, thereby attempting to dilute and eventually wipe-out the Baloch identity. Similar concerns were expressed by Rubina Greenwood, who feared that the CPEC would merely result in the transfer of Sindh's natural resources to China, without any corresponding benefit to the province. Wajahat Hassan, while highlighting cases of human rights violations in Gilgit Baltistan, accused Islamabad of allowing foreign countries, particularly China, to exploit the resources of the region. He also stated that the Pakistani government had initiated a process of altering the demography of Gilgit Baltistan, with the objective to increase its influence there.
In his address, Fulvio Martusciello MEP highlighted the human rights violations being carried out by Pakistan's security forces, in a bid to suppress protests against the CPEC. He referred to incidents of enforced disappearances, land-grabbing and forced eviction of locals from their homes, all in the name of the CPEC. He cautioned European Union member-states not to respond to Pakistan's overtures to invest in the CPEC, as the project was being built by trampling upon the rights of the locals and major portions of the corridor traversed through disputed territory.
Alberto Cirio, MEP, described the CPEC as a project in which, under the pretext of 'development', the State was indulging in corrupt practices for short-term gains, even at the cost of human rights violations against the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and Baluchistan. He also expressed concern about the charter of the Special Security Division (SSD), apparently set up to protect Chinese workers in Pakistan. He stated that the number of personnel in the SSD was higher than the number of Chinese workers in Pakistan, indicating that it would probably be used for other purposes, including suppressing of the locals.
All the panellists agreed that the Pakistan government was violating human rights of the locals by imposing a foreign-led project on the various regions, without consultation. There was also agreement that the project would only lead to the enrichment of China and the Pakistani province of Punjab, at the cost of the other regions in Pakistan.
SOURCE Baluchistan House
NEW YORK, March 2, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Summary
This report provides all the information you require to better understand Purdue and its partnering interests and activities since 2010.
Read the full report: http://www.reportlinker.com/p03605617-summary/view-report.html
Description
The Partnering Deals and Alliance since 2010 report provides an in-depth insight into the partnering activity of one of the world's leading life sciences companies.
On demand company reports are prepared upon purchase to ensure inclusion of the most up to date deal and company data.
The report will be delivered in PDF format within 1 working day of receipt of order. If the CD-Rom version purchased, the report will be sent by courier using express service.
One of the key aspects of partnering is finding those companies that are potential candidates for the development and commercialization of the next generation of therapies. A lot of resources are spent on finding partners, identifying their interests and making contact to initiate discussions.
Using this report, dealmakers will effectively and efficiently target their partnering activities to deliver the company's business development objectives.
The initial chapters of this report provide an orientation of deal making and business activities. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the report, whilst chapter 2 lists the top companies partnering with the company since 2010. Chapter 3 provides an overview of the leading partnering and M&A deals since 2010 to present date based on headline value.
Chapter 4 provides details on how to approach biopharma companies with partnering opportunities whilst chapter 5 lists forthcoming partnering events and conferences where biopharma companies will be present to discuss opportunities face to face.
The main body of the report is provided in chapter 6 providing a infographic visual summary of the company's partnering activity since 2010 according to deal type, industry sector, phase of development, and therapy area.
The deals are listed by deal type, stage of development and therapy focus, allowing easy access to deals and alliances of interest. Every deal record links to an online, live version of the deal record at the Current Agreements deals and alliances database. Where available, deal records also include the contract document as disclosed at the SEC.
One of the key aspects of partnering is conducting due diligence on a partner to determine under what terms a prospective partner agrees to a partnering relationship.
Understanding the flexibility of prospective partners' negotiated deals terms provides critical insight into the negotiation process in terms of what you can expect to achieve during the negotiation of terms. Whilst many smaller companies will be seeking details of the payments clauses, the devil is in the detail in terms of how payments are triggered contract documents provide this insight where press releases and databases do not.
In addition, contract documents provide the answers to numerous questions about a prospective partner's flexibility on a wide range of important issues, many of which will have a significant impact on each party's ability to derive value from the deal.
Each contract document is accessible through a link to an online version of the actual contract document as filed with the Securities Exchange Commission.
Analyzing actual company agreements allows assessment of the following:
- What is actually granted by the agreement to the partner company?
- What exclusivity is granted?
- What is the payment structure for the deal?
- How are sales and payments audited?
- What is the deal term?
- How are the key terms of the agreement defined?
- How are IPRs handled and owned?
- Who is responsible for commercialization?
- Who is responsible for development, supply, and manufacture?
- How is confidentiality and publication managed?
- How are disputes to be resolved?
- Under what conditions can the deal be terminated?
- What happens when there is a change of ownership?
- What sublicensing and sub-contracting provisions have been agreed?
- Which boilerplate clauses does the company insist upon?
- Which boilerplate clauses appear to differ from partner to partner or deal type to deal type?
- Which jurisdiction does the company insist upon for agreement law?
Read the full report: http://www.reportlinker.com/p03605617-summary/view-report.html
About Reportlinker
ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.
http://www.reportlinker.com
__________________________
Contact Clare: [email protected]
US: (339)-368-6001
Intl: +1 339-368-6001
SOURCE Reportlinker
Related Links
http://www.reportlinker.com
SAN FRANCISCO, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Cloud Foundry Foundation, home of the industry-standard platform for cloud applications, today announced SAP (NYSE: SAP) will host a polyglot track at the Cloud Foundry Summit Silicon Valley. SAP is also a Cloud Foundry Summit Silicon Valley Platinum sponsor.
Cloud Foundry Summit Silicon Valley will take place June 13-15 in Santa Clara, California and is the premier event for enterprise application developers. The event will focus on microservices and continuous delivery in all languages and frameworks. As such, organizers are seeking speaking proposals on best practices and tips implementing microservices in cloud environments using various languages including Java, Javascript, Node.js and Golang as well as Cloud Foundry user stories from the developer perspective. The community is encouraged to submit a proposal by the deadline of March 3 at 11:59pm PST.
Attendees will join other developers and CIOs to gain first-hand access to Cloud Foundry roadmaps, training and tutorials, and to see how others are using Cloud Foundry to support continuous innovation and application portability. Keynote speakers and full conference schedules will be announced this Spring.
This year, more than 3,000 attendees are expected to attend. Last year's event showcased information from innovators and technical leaders at companies including Allstate, Comcast, Volkswagen and others. The Summit will host several breakout sessions including those that focus on Cloud Foundry core updates from project leads, Cloud Foundry experiments, and developer community tracks which will be named in the coming weeks.
"With a strong emphasis on languages and agile development best practices for the cloud, Summit Silicon Valley is the premier event for developers," said Abby Kearns, Executive Director, Cloud Foundry Foundation. "Business innovation with in-memory technology is a track that should not be missed."
Cloud Foundry is an open source technology backed by the largest technology companies in the world, including Cisco, Dell EMC, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Google, IBM, Pivotal, SAP and SUSE, and is being used by leaders in manufacturing, telecommunications and financial services. Only Cloud Foundry delivers the velocity needed to continuously deliver apps at the speed of business. Cloud Foundry's container-based architecture runs apps in any language on your choice of cloud Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, OpenStack, VMware vSphere, SoftLayer and more. With a robust services ecosystem and simple integration with existing technologies, Cloud Foundry is the modern standard for mission critical apps for global organizations.
About Cloud Foundry Foundation
The Cloud Foundry Foundation is an independent non-profit organization formed to sustain the development, promotion and adoption of Cloud Foundry as the industry standard platform for cloud applications. Cloud Foundry makes it faster and easier to build, test, deploy and scale applications. Cloud Foundry is an Apache 2.0 licensed project available on Github: https://github.com/cloudfoundry. To learn more, visit: http://www.cloudfoundry.org.
Contact:
Jessica Rampen
Cloud Foundry Foundation
[email protected]
650-787-3548
SOURCE Cloud Foundry
Related Links
http://www.cloudfoundry.org
NEW ORLEANS, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Former Attorney General of Louisiana Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq. and the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") are investigating the proposed sale of Silver Bay Realty Trust Corp. ("Silver Bay" or the "Company") (NYSE: SBY) to Tricon Capital Group Inc. Under the terms of the proposed transaction, shareholders of Silver Bay will receive only $21.50 in cash for each share of Silver Bay that they own. KSF is seeking to determine whether this consideration and the process that led to it are adequate, or whether the consideration undervalues the Company.
If you believe that this transaction undervalues the Company and/or if you would like to discuss your legal rights regarding the proposed sale, you may, without obligation or cost to you, e-mail or call KSF Managing Partner Lewis S. Kahn ([email protected]) toll free at any time at 855-768-1857.
To learn more about KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General, visit www.ksfcounsel.com.
Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
206 Covington St.
Madisonville, LA 70447
SOURCE Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
Related Links
http://www.ksfcounsel.com
COSTA MESA, Calif., March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Simple Recovery, www.simple-recovery.com, a leading Chemical Dependency Treatment Center in Orange County, California, announced today their ability to provide in-network addiction treatment services through 14 major insurance carriers, including Anthem Blue Cross. The announcement is a significant indication that Simple Recovery is committed to providing the highest quality care to as many individuals as possible.
Simple Recovery underwent a demanding clinical evaluation with several managed care organizations to obtain in-network contracts, most recently with Anthem Blue Cross.
"As a Joint Commission accredited behavioral healthcare organization, the high standards required by in-network payers aligned well with our organizational culture and practices," noted Dr. Stephen Odom, CEO of New Vista Behavioral Health, the parent company of Simple Recovery.
Serving over 8.3 million members in California alone, Anthem Blue Cross covers more Californians than any other PPO insurance provider in the state. Data from the California Department of Insurance asserts that 35 percent of Californians have Anthem Blue Cross as their insurance carrier.
"Our partnership with managed care companies is a crucial element of the high-quality and high-value services we provide at Simple Recovery, and we are honored to become an in-network provider," said Dr. Odom, "When Simple Recovery became an in-network provider with most major carriers, not only could we continue to provide the high-quality treatment services that we are known for, but we can now also provide help to more people within their preferred provider networks."
Since opening its doors in 2012, Simple Recovery has helped hundreds of individuals and their families recover from drug and alcohol addiction. Their in-network provider list now includes Aetna Behavioral Health, American Mental Health Network, Anthem Blue Cross, Beacon Health Strategies, LLC (formerly Valueoptions), ComPsych, HMC Healthworks, Integration Behavioral Health (IBH), Magellan Health which manages many California Blue Shield plans), Managed Health Network (MHN), Multiplan, Network by Design, and Western Growers.
About Simple Recovery:
Founded in 2012, Simple Recovery is a Joint Commission Accredited, California licensed and certified, 18-bed residential and extended care program for men and women. Their addiction treatment program seeks to meet each client where they are at in their addiction and help them incorporate their newfound sobriety into their existing world. The achievement and maintenance of sobriety, success and self-respect occurs through both the drug and alcohol treatment process and behavioral change. Simple's successful model bridges the gap between the confines of treatment and real life.
About New Vista Behavioral Health:
New Vista Behavioral Health's mission is to provide innovative, client-centered, evidence-based, treatment solutions to create a healthy and productive new vista for recovery and success. Their centers offer sub-acute detox, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient services for clients facing Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders.
For more information about Simple Recovery and the services they provide, please visit http://www.simple-recovery.com/ or call 888-207-0965.
Media Contact:
Chelsea Brigham, Clinical Outreach Manager
425-890-5162
[email protected]
This release was issued through Send2Press, a unit of Neotrope. For more information, visit Send2Press Newswire at https://www.Send2Press.com
SOURCE Simple Recovery
Related Links
http://www.simple-recovery.com
TOKYO, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Smartmedical Corp. and INDEX Trading & Investment (ITI), a member of INDEX Holding, signed an agreement detailing their partnership. Both sides share the objective of cooperating on medical tourism, treating patients from the UAE in Japan, and licensing Smartmedical's Emotion AI "Empath" in GCC countries.
Alliance on medical tourism business
Smartmedical Corp. and INDEX Holding agreed to create a new business model to expand medical tourists from UAE to Japan. "Japan is now rapidly gaining popularity as a medical tourism destination," said Nozumu Shibasaki, CEO of Smartmedical Corp. "Because of our longest life expectancy, Japan attracts medical tourists in tandem with the overall increase in international visitors. By collaborating with INDEX Holding, a leading authority in medical tourism business, we believe we can establish new medical tourism model for visitors from UAE."
Anas Al Madani, Vice Chairman & Group CEO of INDEX Holding, said "We have developed medical tourism business sending patients from UAE to GCC countries, Germany, USA, Korea, and others. Our experiences and knowledge in medical tourism business enable INDEX Holding and Smartmedical, as an innovative medical hub developer, to create a medical tourism platform for UAE patients."
Smartmedical Corp. has developed PCC (Portal Care Clinics) as a new community medical hub for both community residents and commuters, around railway and metro stations mainly in metropolitan Tokyo area. "In order to achieve active and healthy aging, prevention and early detection of disease is essential. This is also true for medical tourists. Our PCC functions as preventive and primary care hub, as a branch of local-core hospitals in cooperation with university hospitals, so that we can provide multiple healthcare services including advanced preventive care and top hospital quality care for medical tourists from UAE," added Mr. Shibasaki. "By connecting our medical networks in Japan with INDEX Holding's medical tourism experiences, we can provide excellent quality medical services."
Alliance on licensing Emotion AI "Empath"
This MoU defines the licensing alliance of Emotion AI technology "Empath", named and developed by ICT division of Smartmedical Corp. Empath can identify emotions in real-time regardless of language by analyzing multiple physical properties of voice. This technology has been already utilized in various fields such as mental health, call centers, and robotics.
Empath has been already adopted by UAE's government sectors. In October 2016, Empath was officially licensed to the United Arab Emirates' national campaign, "Express Your Love for UAE" hosted by Aqdar (the Khalifa Empowerment Programme for Students) and sponsored by Sheikh Saif. After the campaign, Smartmedical launched Android app "I love UAE" on December 2nd 2016 to celebrate UAE's 45th anniversary of its founding. "This is the best time for us to have a partnership with INDEX Holdings," said Mr. Shibasaki. "After the signing of an agreement with the Ministry of Interior, Empath is highly raising its profile in UAE. INDEX holding is a leading authority in marketing, so this collaboration will boost the presence of Empath immediately in UAE and expands our market into other GCC countries."
Mr. Al Madani said "In fact, attention to this technology is increasing in UAE. In March 2016, UAE government has established world's first Ministry of Happiness to enhance happiness status among employees and customers. Emotion AI "Empath" will be welcomed at such situation because UAE government is now searching for technologies which can evaluate and improve happiness. Our strong connection with UAE's government sectors and our marketing strategy and experiences in UAE will lead this alliance with Smartmedical on licensing Empath to success."
"INDEX holding penetrates into the ICT market of UAE, so that this alliance makes Empath"
About Smartmedical (http://eng.smartmedical.jp/)
Smartmedical Corp., comprised of PCC and ICT self-care divisions, is the leading authority in developing PCC (Primary Care Clinics), new medical service platforms at and near railway stations in Tokyo and major cities in Japan providing preventive medicine. The ICT self-care division supports PCC projects with advanced ICT technology. It develops and licenses Empath vocal emotion recognition technology for mental health care. In addition to mental health care services, the Web Empath API is also employed in multiple service sectors such as robotics, call centers, and VR.
By analyzing multiple physical properties of the voice such as intonation, pitch, speed, and volume, Empath can identify emotions in real-time regardless of language. It has been developed and refined through collaborative research with prestigious universities such as the University of Tokyo and Nara Institute of Science and Technology. Empath won the first prize of the Japan Resilience Award 2015 and an excellence award at the MCPC Awards in 2015.
For more information on Empath, please visit https://webempath.net/lp-eng/.
SOURCE Smartmedical Corp.
The Student Farm is a working farm on the Purdue University campus that is led by students who have an academic interest in agriculture. Students gain real-world farming experience by growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers using the principles that naturally govern balanced eco systems, including emphasis on diversity, healthy soil, healthy plants, and healthy people. Its educational work covers:
How to grow food on a small, ecological scale;
The art of marketing produce for profit;
How to eat vegetables in delicious, nourishing ways, and;
Understanding how food intersects with environment, economy and the community.
"The hoop house greatly expands the Student Farm's ability to provide students with experiential learning opportunities," said Student Farm faculty advisor, Steve Hallett, PhD. He added, "This will also enable the farm to provide healthy, locally sourced food to the university and the community year-round. This would not otherwise be possible due to the area's winter climate conditions."
Sodexo spends $36 million annually on produce that is locally sourced across the United States from over 1,400 state and regional farms. Sourcing local foods allows Sodexo to create economic opportunities for small businesses and rural communities, while offering more flavorful and healthful food options for its customers.
"Supporting the Student Farm at Purdue University is part of Sodexo's commitment to source locally grown produce and make a positive impact in the local communities where we operate," said Greg Lepore, Director of Business Development at Sodexo. "The long-term plan is to source produce from the Student Farm for Sodexo's accounts in the Lafayette community."
Sodexo delivers more than 100 services across North America that enhance organizational performance, contribute to local communities and improve quality of life. The Fortune Global 500 company is a leader in delivering sustainable, integrated facilities management and foodservice operations.
Learn more about Sodexo at its corporate blog, Sodexo Insights.
SOURCE Sodexo
Related Links
http://www.sodexoUSA.com
"I am very pleased that we were able to reach an Agreement in Principle for our Material Specialists," said Landon Nitschke, Vice President Maintenance Operations. "This agreement acknowledges their contributions, even as it supports our aim of being the number one low-fare carrier in the country."
Details of the agreement were not released. Southwest said its Negotiating Team will be meeting with IBT representatives in the coming days to finalize the contractual language.
IBT currently represents approximately 290 Material Specialists.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.
In its 46th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 53,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest proudly operates a network of 101 destinations in the United States and eight additional countries with more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Subject to requisite governmental approvals, service to Grand Cayman begins June 4, 2017, the same date service is scheduled to begin from Cincinnati.
Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as nearly 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. The airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. A new logo, aircraft livery, interior design featuring a new seat and Flight Attendant galley, Employee-designed uniforms, and an updated airport experience all showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees who connect Customers with what's important in their lives.
From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 44 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com.
Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA.
SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co.
Related Links
http://www.southwest.com
Every Friday for the duration of the year, one teacher in Washington will get their project request fully-funded by Inspirus Credit Union. The announcement will be made on the credit unions Facebook page and can also be found by searching #FundFriday.
This generous giveback goes to the heart of Inspirus. "It's our mission to give back to education, and this is one way we give back," said Vice President of Marketing Sherry Lotze. "We want to support those who teach the leaders of tomorrow, and we hope they will benefit greatly from this."
The first project Inspirus is funding will provide Madrona Elementary School Teacher Katie Paul and her students with phonemic awareness tools and games to support her kindergarteners' knowledge of number sets and sounds to help with their math and reading skills.
"This will have a huge impact on my kiddos," said Mrs. Paul.
Most projects on DonorsChoose.org range from $300 to over $2,000, with the average cost per project at $700. If you are interested in starting a project or making a donation, visit inspirusCU.org/Fund-Friday for more information.
About Inspirus Credit Union
Founded in 1936 by a Seattle math and journalism teacher, Inspirus serves 80,000 members across Washington who share a passion for education. With $1.1 billion in assets, Inspirus operates branches in Seattle, Spokane, and Lynnwood. Its philanthropy model includes education-giveback programs that allow members to direct charitable contributions to schools in their communities. Inspirus employees donate upwards of 1,000 volunteer hours each year in support of education. For more information, visit inspirusCU.org.
SOURCE Inspirus Credit Union
Related Links
https://www.inspiruscu.org
PHILADELPHIA, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Graham Company, one of the Mid-Atlantic region's largest insurance and employee benefits brokers, today presented its 15th annual Excellence in Service & Partnership Award to Crum & Forster. The prestigious award was bestowed to Crum & Forster in recognition of its superior overall claims performance in 2016.
The Graham Company logo
Effective claims management is central to The Graham Company's risk management approach, so it demands its insurance carriers not only provide best-in-class claims service to clients, but to also establish a collaborative partnership with The Graham Company. To assess the overall efficacy of its partner carriers, The Graham Company conducts a comprehensive performance evaluation of the carriers' claims departments, rating each in the following categories:
Claims Team Technology Customized Claims Servicing Standards Client Meetings Reserving Philosophy Physician Panel Capabilities
The carriers are then given a numerical grade for their overall performance, which is based on a 100 percent score. Crum & Forster received the highest score among all of the insurance carriers with whom The Graham Company works.
"At The Graham Company, we have built our reputation by providing clients with 24/7 strategic counsel for their most complex risks. When it comes to claims management, the Crum & Forster team is an integral partner, sharing our commitment to working around the clock as true advocates for clients," said Ken Ewell, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Graham Company. "Working in collaboration with the exceptional professionals at Crum & Forster, Graham is able to offer the highest level of service and just as importantly peace of mind to our valued clients."
The Excellence in Service & Partnership Award was presented on February 27 at The Graham Company's corporate headquarters in Philadelphia, where executives from the Crum & Forster claims team were in attendance.
"Our integrated approach to service allows our team to tightly manage claims quickly and with ease," said Marc Adee, Chief Executive Officer of Crum & Forster. "Because of our shared emphasis on the client, we've developed an extremely strong relationship with The Graham Company over the 40 years that we have worked together. The Excellence in Service & Partnership Award is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of Crum & Forster employees. We won this award in 2013, and couldn't be prouder to again accept this special honor."
About The Graham Company
The Graham Company is an insurance brokerage and consulting firm committed to enhancing employee safety and business viability through an action-oriented approach to risk management. In business for over 50 years, The Graham Company focuses on customizing property and casualty, surety and employee benefits programs for its clients. With its uniquely proactive approach to managing risk, The Graham Company is redefining what it means to be a broker because it believes Actions Matter. To learn more about The Graham Company, visit www.grahamco.com.
About Crum & Forster
With a proud history going back to 1822, Crum & Forster provides specialty and standard commercial lines insurance products through our admitted and surplus lines insurance companies. We provide a diversified portfolio of products including multiline solutions for select industry groups and a broad breath of specialty products. Our agile structure enables us to respond quickly to the changing needs of our clients while reinforcing our commitment to service excellence. Crum & Forster is a registered trademark of United States Fire Insurance Company. To learn more about Crum & Forster, visit www.cfins.com.
Media Contacts:
Chelsey Gross
The Graham Company
215.701.5295
[email protected]
Jorge Echemendia
Crum & Forster
973.490.6519
[email protected]
SOURCE Crum & Forster
Related Links
http://www.cfins.com
DALLAS, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Poo~Pourri announces that 100 percent of website sales from March 3-5 will be donated to Lotus Outreach International on March 4 and 5, the weekend before International Women's Day. Lotus Outreach International will use the funds to empower girls from rural communities in Cambodia and India through education.
When girls in poor, rural, Cambodian villages reach 11 or 12 years old, they have few paths to choose from. Their primary choices are to become a child bride, or cross into Thailand where they're promised jobs as nannies or servers, only to be sold into brothels. Education provides a crossroad for these girls, but school tuition and boarding costs are too expensive for most rural families.
That is why the non-profit Lotus Outreach International provides resources for girls in these situations through programs such as Girls Access to Education (GATE). Through GATE, girls in Cambodia receive scholarships to attend school. The cost is a simple $1,200 a year for classes, room and board, supplies, and all other expenses.
"Sometimes we feel our paths are limited by our circumstances, and it just takes one person to empower us by telling us we can be more. Lotus Outreach International does that for these girls in Cambodia and India," said Suzy Batiz, CEO of Poo~Pourri. "I am so excited to be bold for change on International Women's Day by supporting some of the most vulnerable women in our global community through Lotus Outreach International."
Sales from all products on Poo~Pourri's website, from the original Before-You-Go toilet spray to t-shirts and tote bags, will be donated to Lotus Outreach International this weekend.
"We are so grateful to Poo~Pourri for partnering with us for International Women's Day," said Patty Waltcher, President of Lotus Outreach International. "The support from Poo~Pourri will be invaluable in helping us provide educational resources to even more girls. When you empower a girl, you empower a society. These girls come back to their villages and bring the gift of knowledge to their families and communities."
Poo~Pourri is a small, woman-owned business that recognizes the incredible contributions women make to our local and global communities. Poo~Pourri believes all women should have a voice, a safe environment, and the opportunity to pursue their dreams and bare their genius. That is why Poo~Pourri supports programs around the world that protect women from violence and help them secure an education, like Lotus Outreach International. Poo~Pourri will also be donating an additional $30,000 to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence to celebrate International Women's Day, March 8.
ABOUT POO~POURRI
Since 2007, Poo~Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray has been stopping bathroom odor before it begins so you can leave the bathroom smelling better than you found it. With over 200 million combined YouTube views and over 20 million bottles sold, Poo~Pourri has become a pop culture sensation and start-up success. Poo~Pourri is sold in over 9,000 independent retailers and nationwide retailers including CVS, Bed Bath & Beyond, Ulta, QVC and Amazon.com. Poo~Pourri earned the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval in 2013 and an Edison award in 2014. The company was also ranked on Inc.'s 5000 Fastest Growing Companies. To learn more, visit www.poopourri.com.
ABOUT LOTUS OUTREACH INTERNATIONAL
Lotus Outreach is a California-based 501 (c)(3) dedicated to ensuring the education, health and safety of vulnerable women and children in the developing world. The GATE Women and Youth Scholarship program is one of several successful projects it operates in Asia today. For more information visit http://www.lotusoutreach.org
Contact:
Will Clarke | 972.818.8200
Rebekah Riley | 972.818.8200
SOURCE Poo~Pourri
Related Links
http://www.poopourri.com
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The old form of content marketing is dying. It's become nothing more than 'white noise.' So marketers are relying on influencer marketing as a way to break through the clutter and be heard.
This move often overlaps and complements transmedia marketing and should be used that way. Simply, transmedia means to transport a story or message into a customer's everyday life, through the use of multiple media platforms.
Storymaking vs Storytelling... Storymaking invites fan participation, decentralizes structure, and creates unpredictability. Leveraging the power of social triggers
Placing this together with influencer marketing has become a dynamic way to get your message in front of the right audience.
The Viral Gold Formula
Writer and analyst Kevin Allocca works with YouTube trends. He tracks viral content and connects that content within the so-called 'viral planets' of YouTube's universe. In doing so, he discovered a pretty simple formula for viral marketing.
Tastemakers [influencers] + Community Remixing + the Unexpected = Viral Gold
To break down this formula, let's examine each part:
Tastemakers (or recognized influencers) are mostly celebrities, talk show hosts, news anchors, thought-leaders and politicians.
Community remixing refers to fans on various media outlets that remix influencer content. They might do this by tweaking, adding music, altering images, shortening content, or splicing together separate content that is related. This remixing breathes new life into the content and causes it to be shared again and again.
The Unexpected means the content has some level of irony or some twist; like a Dorky Rapper. Those two terms 'dorky' and 'rapper' seem to be at odds with each other: enter Drake and Hotline Bling. If we were to unpack how this meme-able influencer embraced community remixing, it would look a lot like the inevitable shift from storytelling to storymaking.
Transmedia Storymaking
The gold comes in when storymaking happens. Storymaking invites fan participation, decentralizes structure, and creates unpredictability. It goes further - and thus is of even more benefit to the marketer by also incentivizing the customer as both a consumer and producer a prosumer.
This style of marketing encourages fan pages and real-time hashtag conversations with influencers. And within the post-broadcast era, we have a new platform: an audience that itself has influence because even the audience has an audience.
What does transmedia marketing and storymaking look like?
Data also shows that 91 percent of viewers and customers feel compelled to participate when campaigns happen in real time. Jay Z and the 4-week, crowd-sourced, Decoded treasure hunt illustrates this and it also illustrates a form of 'east coast' transmedia marketing. His project put Decoded on the NYT bestsellers list for more than 19 weeks.
Furthermore, search engine Bing partnered with them, causing an increase in their traffic by the millions, landing them as one of the top-10 most visited sites during the campaign.
Why does transmedia marketing and storymaking work so well?
Social Triggers
Another element of the Decoded campaign was the use of social triggers.
Social triggering, in a transmedia context, relates to the immersive marketing (see chart). An effective social trigger makes a message part of the fabric of our everyday lives. Organic social triggering dials up influencer engagement and drives search visibility. This influences rich media content like owned media and paid media, and ultimately becomes extremely relevant content.
Inbound Loop
When influencers promote your product, it kickstarts an inbound cycle. An inbound loop is what you want, as it naturally brings customers to you, rather than you trying to find them. Consumers will naturally gravitate towards products and services that are promoted by influencers they already listen to. This form of marketing avoids the traditional outbound billboard-type ads that aren't very effective, and frankly, most people find annoying. It also continues to promote your brand through more trustworthy channels like friends and organic search queries.
This is the Future of Marketing!
Marketing is all about conversion through conversation. But the focus is no longer on brands talking at the world; rather, it's about listening to what the world is already talking about - and becoming part of that conversation as well as facilitating further conversation. Transmedia and Influencer marketing engages with this conversation at every consumer and prosumer touch point.
Dr. Chester Branch
Transmedia Marketing expert and best-selling author
@storynotes
757-753-5664
Dr. Chester Branch is a best-selling author and Transmedia Architect, teaching transmedia courses internationally. He studied digital and social media marketing at Inbound2014. He also received his Doctorate from the school of Business with a focus in digital and social media strategy. His dissertation, Transmedia Education, was presented during the 2014 TranXmedia conference at the Hong Kong Design Institute. He was recently featured twice as an expert in media marketing by Inc.com and was listed as one of the top content marketing experts of 2016 by Hubspot and Venngage.
SOURCE Dr. Chester Branch
ANN ARBOR, Mich. and WASHINGTON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- A majority of Americans (57 percent) say they have been prescribed narcotic painkillers, according to the Truven Health Analytics-NPR Health Poll. Despite this widespread use, respondents have concerns over addiction risk, effectiveness, side effects and long-term impact, particularly among those who have not previously been prescribed the drugs.
Truven Health Analytics, part of the IBM Watson Health business, and NPR conduct a nationwide bimonthly poll to gauge attitudes and opinions on a wide range of health issues. The recent survey sought insights into respondents' use of and concerns about prescription narcotic painkillers. Repeating selected questions from surveys conducted in 2011 and 2014, it also measured changes in consumer attitude over the past five years.
When asked about concerns regarding narcotic painkillers, respondents who had been prescribed these drugs showed a slight decline between 2011 and 2016: just over a third of respondents (35.3 percent) said they had concerns, nearly identical to 2014 (36.3 percent) and 2011 (36.1 percent).
However, respondents who were not prescribed these drugs grew more concerned about them over the past five years. Forty-six percent of respondents who had not previously been prescribed narcotic painkillers said they had concerns, up from 29.6 percent in 2014 and 29.8 percent in 2011.
Among all respondents, fear of addiction (32.7 percent) and side effects (30.2 percent) were the most cited reasons for any hesitancy. For patients prescribed the painkillers, fear of side effects was higher (37.5 percent), but fear of addiction was lower (26.7 percent). For respondents who had not been prescribed these narcotics, fear of addiction was higher (39.3 percent) and side effects lower (22.1 percent).
"This data shows that people are becoming more aware of risks associated with narcotic painkillers," said Ronald J. Ozminkowski, vice president of cognitive analytics for the value-based care business at IBM Watson Health. "What's most fascinating, however, is that consumer concerns about side effects, addiction and long-term impact associated with the drugs are most pronounced among those who have never been prescribed narcotic painkillers. That exposes an educational challenge caregivers will need to address when prescribing these drugs."
To date, the Truven Health Analytics-NPR Health Poll has explored numerous health topics, including generic drugs, vaccines, data privacy, narcotic painkillers and sports-related concussions. NPR archives reports on the surveys online at the Shots health blog here. Truven Health maintains a library of poll results here.
The Truven Health Analytics-NPR Health Poll is powered by the Truven Health PULSE survey, the nation's largest and longest-running independently funded, nationally representative, multimodal poll that collects information about health-related behaviors and attitudes and healthcare use from 80,000 U.S. households annually.
The results depicted from the 2016 survey represent responses from 3,000 survey participants interviewed from Nov. 1 15, 2016. Results from the 2014 survey represent responses from 3,007 survey participants interviewed from May 1 15, 2014. Results from the 2011 survey represent responses from 3,009 survey participants interviewed from Oct. 1 13, 2011. The margin of error for 2016, 2014 and 2011 is +/- 1.8 percentage points.
About Truven Health Analytics, Part of the IBM Watson Health Business
Truven Health Analytics, part of the IBM Watson Health business, provides market-leading performance improvement solutions built on data integrity, advanced analytics and domain expertise. For more than 40 years, our insights and solutions have been providing hospitals and clinicians, employers and health plans, state and federal government agencies, life sciences companies and policymakers, the facts they need to make confident decisions that directly affect the health and well-being of people and organizations in the US and around the world. The company was acquired by IBM in 2016 to help form a new business, Watson Health. Watson Health aspires to improve lives and give hope by delivering innovation to address the world's most pressing health challenges through data and cognitive insights.
Truven Health Analytics owns some of the most trusted brands in healthcare, such as MarketScan, 100 Top Hospitals, Advantage Suite, Micromedex, Simpler and ActionOI . Truven Health has its principal offices in Ann Arbor, MI, Chicago, IL and Denver, CO.
For more information, visit www.truvenhealth.com
About NPR
NPR is an award-winning, multimedia news organization and an influential force in American life. In collaboration with more than 900 independent public radio stations nationwide, NPR strives to create a more informed publicone challenged and invigorated by a deeper understanding and appreciation of events, ideas and cultures.
CONTACTS
Ariana Nikitas
[email protected]
312.533.3437
Brian Erni
For Truven Health Analytics
J. Roderick, Inc. Public Relations
[email protected]
631.584.2200
SOURCE Truven Health Analytics
Related Links
http://www.truvenhealth.com
SAN DIEGO, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of San Diego School of Business-Procopio International Business Summit (USD-PIBS) will be held on Friday, May 12, 2017 at the Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice in San Diego, California.
Presented by the University of San Diego School of Business in partnership with Procopio, USD-PIBS is the premier educational and networking event for Latin American executives, investors and advisors interested in learning how to do business in the United States. The summit is designed to help attendees identify the advantages and risks of doing business in the U.S. business market and understanding the unique business, legal and cultural nuances. This summit will be offered simultaneously in Spanish and English.
"Based on the success of our first summit, we will again bring together seasoned Latin American business professionals who will share their successes and pitfalls running operations in the United States," said Enrique Hernandez, Procopio Partner and Latin America Practice Group Leader. "It is important, now more than ever, to connect with each other and share how to creatively and successfully master the art of cross-border business. Procopio is proud to continue our long-time partnership with USD as we grow into our 2nd year of offering this unique international business-focused summit."
This year's topics include:
Investment Climate in the US: How to Stand Out Amongst Worldwide Competition
Opportunities in the Food, Beverage and Hospitality Industry: Where to Focus and What to Avoid
Risk vs. Opportunity: Investing in Real Estate
Digital Marketing: Attracting the Hispanic Market
Startup Fundamentals for Global Entrepreneurs
Cross-border M&A: When Expansion Knows No Borders
Navigating U.S. Immigration through Entrepreneurship
Additional information is available at Procopio.com/PIBS.
About Procopio
Procopio is a full-service business and litigation law firm committed to thoughtful problem solving and improving your bottom line. With more than 150 attorneys based in San Diego, Silicon Valley, Phoenix, Austin and Los Angeleswe're passionate about knowing your business and helping you grow and protect it for the long term. Procopio has the flexible infrastructure to support both small to mid-sized companies and large multinationals at every stage of the business life cycle. Our global reach across Asia and Latin America further expands our international partnerships and cross border capabilities. At Procopio, we are focused on what is important to youproviding smart, innovative and practical solutions in a cost-effective manner to help your business thrive. Learn more at Procopio.com.
Media Contact: Kim Jewell
Director of Marketing and Marketing Technology
Phone: 619.906.5784
Email: [email protected]
This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. For more info visit: http://www.newswire.com
SOURCE Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP
Related Links
http://www.procopio.com/events/view/pibs
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The United States Tamil Political Action Council (USTPAC) calls for urgent action on resolution 30/1 commitments and concurs with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, that action on Sri Lanka's implementation is "worryingly slow." Resolution 30/1, co-sponsored by the government of Sri Lanka in September 2015, is a reform and transitional justice blueprint. Progress on this blueprint is immediately required.
Commenting on the report, Dr. Karunyan Arulanantham, USTPAC's President said, "USTPAC urges the UN Human Rights Council to adopt a new resolution reflecting High Commissioner Zeid's recommendations, including for the government of Sri Lanka to publicize a comprehensive plan with a timetable for reform and transitional justice and for OHCHR to establish offices in Sri Lanka."
High Commissioner Zeid's report demonstrates the government's disappointing progress and lack of transparency on implementation of resolution 30/1. The report details how tasks that could be carried out quickly, such as repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act, stopping security force surveillance and harassment, releasing all land from the military to civilians, and operationalizing the Office of Missing Persons have still not happened.
The High Commissioner pointed out that the government has failed to generate trust among the Tamil community. In a press release put out by the OHCHR today, High Commissioner Zeid said, "This critical opportunity in Sri Lankan history cannot be missed. I urge the Government and people of Sri Lanka to prioritize justice alongside reconciliation to ensure that the horrors of the past are firmly dealt with, never to recur."
High Commissioner Zeid also concluded that the consultations conducted by the government-appointed Consultations Task Force were inclusive, participatory and deserving of praise. Victims reported that for the first time they felt respected while in formal dialogue with the government.
"After the Human Rights Council concludes, international engagement must continue. We need the active participation of the UN and all UN member states to drive reforms and to hold the government to account," concluded Dr. Arulanantham.
About USTPAC: USTPAC is a US-based Tamil advocacy group advocating for a cessation of ongoing human rights abuses in Sri Lanka, accountability for crimes committed during and after the civil war, and a political settlement to address the root causes of the conflict. Since 2009, it has worked for these goals with the US Government and UN Human Rights Council.
Website: www.ustpac.org Twitter: @UstpacAdvocacy
Contact: Dr. Arulanantham, USTPAC President
T: 1-571-317-0998 Email: [email protected]
SOURCE United States Tamil Political Action Council (USTPAC)
Related Links
http://www.ustpac.org
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Browse 131 market data Tables and 48 Figures spread through 160 Pages and in-depth TOC on "UV Stabilizers Market"
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UV stabilizers find application in packaging and automotive industries, and are used with HALS and UV absorbers. The increasing demand for UV stabilizers from these industries has promoted the usage of UV stabilizers. The rise in demand for greenhouse films is expected to drive the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period.
Ask for PDF of the Report at http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownload.asp?id=122183376
Based on type, the HALS segment is expected to lead the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period
Based on type, the HALS (Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers) segment is expected to lead the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period, owing to their ability to protect polymers from degradation from UV light exposure while providing durability and long shelf life. HALS are used in thin and thick cross-section applications such as extrusion, blow molding, fibers, films, tapes, and injection molding, among others. The increasing demand for non-degradable, durable, and high-performance products in automotive, packaging, and furniture & construction industries has fueled the growth of the global UV stabilizers market for HALS.
The packaging application segment is expected to lead the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period
The packaging is the largest application segment of the UV stabilizers market, owing to the increasing demand for packaging from food and non-food industries in Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe regions. The ability to maintain the properties and quality of packaging materials even when exposed to UV radiations, weathering resistivity, and long-term durability is the major factor driving the UV stabilizers market in packaging.
Asia-Pacific is expected to lead the UV stabilizers market during the forecast period
The Asia-Pacific region is estimated to lead the UV stabilizers market. This dominance of the region can be attributed to the presence of a large number of UV stabilizers manufacturers, rising foreign investments, and growing demand for HALS and UV absorbers from plastics, polymers, and automotive industries in the region. China is leading the Asia-Pacific UV stabilizers market due to the growth in the use of UV stabilizers in packaging and automotive industries, among others, and numerous developmental strategies adopted by the manufacturers.
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The UV Stabilizers Market has several global players. These companies are actively investing in various strategies such as new product development, expansions, acquisitions, and joint ventures to increase their market shares. Major manufacturers such as Songwon Industrial Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Solvay SA (Belgium), ALTANA AG (Germany), BASF SE (Germany), Clariant AG (Switzerland), and Addivant (U.S.) have adopted various organic and inorganic strategies to expand their businesses.
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Plastic Additives Market by Type (Plasticizers, Stabilizers, Flame Retardants, Impact Modifiers), Plastic (Commodity, Engineering, and High Performance Plastic), and by Application (Packaging, Construction, Consumer Goods, Automotive) - Global Trends & Forecasts to 2021
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LAVAL, Quebec, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. (NYSE: VRX and TSX: VRX) ("Valeant") today announced that it has completed the previously announced sale of its CeraVe, AcneFree and AMBI skincare brands to L'Oreal for $1.3 billion in cash. Valeant will use net proceeds from the sale to permanently repay term loan debt under its Senior Credit Facility.
"We are pleased to close this transaction with L'Oreal, and further our progress to pay down debt," said Valeant CEO Joseph C. Papa. "Today's announcement is the first of significant steps within our divestiture program which will help us focus our business, meet our financial goals and create value for our shareholders."
About Valeant
Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. (NYSE/TSX:VRX) is a multinational specialty pharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of pharmaceutical products primarily in the areas of dermatology, gastrointestinal disorders, eye health, neurology and branded generics. More information about Valeant can be found at www.valeant.com.
Forward-looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements which may generally be identified by the use of the words "anticipates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "should," "could," "would," "may," "will," "believes," "estimates," "potential," "target," or "continue" and variations or similar expressions. These statements are based upon the current expectations and beliefs of management and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties discussed in the Company's most recent annual or quarterly report and detailed from time to time in Valeant's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian Securities Administrators, which factors are incorporated herein by reference. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. Valeant undertakes no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect actual outcomes, unless required by law.
Contact Information:
Elif McDonald
[email protected]
514-856-3855
877-281-6642 (toll free)
Media:
Renee Soto
or
Chris Kittredge/Jared Levy
Sard Verbinnen & Co.
212-687-8080
SOURCE Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.valeant.com
WASHINGTON, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On March 9, The Latino Coalition (TLC), the leading national non-partisan advocacy organization representing Hispanic businesses and consumers, will host the Make Small Business Great Again Policy Summit at the J.W. Marriott in Washington, D.C.
"The election of a successful businessman to the highest position in the land has once again injected optimism into our nation's economy and the small business sector," said Hector Barreto, TLC's Chairman and former U.S. Small Business Administrator. "As evidenced by a 'stunning climb in optimism' with January boasting its highest levels since December 2004, the business sector began hiring and spending again. This is a direct result of having a President that understands the language of business and promotes a policy direction that will spur economic growth. On March 9, an impressive line-up of high-level speakers will deliver this message of enthusiasm to America's small business owners, and spark the entrepreneurial spirit of this great nation."
Taking a page from President Trump, the Make Small Business Great Again Policy Summit will bring together hundreds of small business owners, executives, and elected officials to discuss the myriad of ways to unleash the stifled and untapped potential of our country's neglected entrepreneurial class.
Vice President Mike Pence will deliver the headlining remarks about the strength of America's small business sector, and how they will lead this nation's economic comeback. Pence will echo President Trump's vision for a stronger and more prosperous nation, and the success stories that make America great.
The event will also boast an extraordinary lineup of notables such as: U.S. Small Business Administrator Linda McMahon, Utah Attorney General Sean D. Reyes, U.S. Rep. Carlos Curbelo (FL-26), U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25), U.S. Rep. Brett Guthrie (KY-02), U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-08), U.S. Rep. Will Hurd (TX-23) and U.S. Rep. Peter J. Roskam (IL-06) to name a few.
This exciting summit will cover the top themes entrepreneurs face daily with high-impact panels, relevant presentations and effective discussions regarding regulations, healthcare and education. Panel titles include: It's Not What You Make; It's What You Get to Keep: Strategies for Navigating the Current Regulatory Environment; Repealing and Replacing The Affordable Care Act: Implications for Small Business and the Latino Community; The Future of American Education: Solutions for the Latino Community; and Will Washington Help America Be Great Again?: What the Changes in the Washington Mean for Your Business.
"As a non-partisan advocacy organization and a key center of influence, The Latino Coalition looks forward to presenting this premiere summit and helping small business owners expand their platforms, build their professional network, and learn, strategize and improve practices to advance their business. In short, we anticipate working with the Administration to spark the entrepreneurial spirit and truly Make Small Business Great Again," said Allen Gutierrez, TLC National Executive Director.
For more information or to register for the TLC Make Small Business Great Again Policy Summit, visit: www.thelatinocoalition.com/policy/.
The Latino Coalition would like to thank the following Premiere Partner: Walmart; Gold Partner: Google; Silver Partners: ACT Wireless, Comcast/Universal, Direct Selling Association, Herbalife, Intuit, The Latino Coalition Foundation, PhRMA, MasterCard, Edison Electric Institute, PG&E, California Resource Corporation, 1800 Contacts, American Express, US Chamber Institute for Legal Reform; Bronze Partners: National Association of Broadcasters, NCTA - The Internet & Television Association, T-Mobile, The Libre Institute, La Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, Hispanic Business Roundtable Institute; Small Business Partners: AlvaradoSmith, 305 Communications, Conexion; Media Partners: CapitalWirePR and Impacto Latin News.
ABOUT THE LATINO COALITION- The Latino Coalition (TLC) was founded in 1995 by a group of Hispanic business owners from across the country to research and develop policies solutions relevant to Latinos. TLC is a non-profit nationwide organization with offices in California, Washington, DC and Guadalajara, Mexico. Established to address and engage on key issues that that directly affect the well-being of Hispanics in the United States, TLC's agenda is to create and promote initiatives and partnerships that will foster economic equivalency and enhance and empower overall business, economic and social development for Latinos. Visit www.thelatinocoalition.com or follow us at #TLCsummit.
SOURCE The Latino Coalition
Related Links
http://www.thelatinocoalition.com
TOLEDO, Ohio, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Welltower Inc. (NYSE: HCN) will participate in the Citi 2017 Global Property CEO Conference to be held at The Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood, Florida. Tom DeRosa, Chief Executive Officer of Welltower, will present during a session scheduled for Monday, March 6, 2017 at 8:10 a.m. Eastern Time. The presentation can be accessed through the following link:
http://www.veracast.com/webcasts/citigroup/globalproperty2017/18102396025.cfm
A replay of the presentation will be available via the above link one hour after the conclusion of the event. The webcast link will expire June 4, 2017.
About Welltower
Welltower Inc. (NYSE:HCN), an S&P 500 company headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, is driving the transformation of health care infrastructure. The company invests with leading seniors housing operators, post-acute providers and health systems to fund the real estate infrastructure needed to scale innovative care delivery models and improve people's wellness and overall health care experience. Welltower, a real estate investment trust (REIT), owns interests in approximately 1,400 properties concentrated in major, high-growth markets in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, consisting of seniors housing and post-acute communities and outpatient medical properties. More information is available at www.welltower.com.
SOURCE Welltower Inc.
Related Links
http://www.welltower.com
MADRID, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Winetourismspain.com, a travel portal that specializes in wine and food travel in Spain has launched a short story contest in which participants are requested to write about how they imagine extraterrestrial life would react to their discovery of wine on Earth.
Short story writing contest winetourismspain.com 2017, aliens and wine.
Earlier this year, NASA announced that it is only a matter of time until life will be found on other planets in our universe. This news opens up many questions and, for wine lovers, the possible existence of wine elsewhere is an interesting one. This new short story contest from Winetourismspain.com sets the stage in Spain. Aliens arrive somewhere in Spain and wine plays an important role.
"With our contest, we wanted to put wine in the center of an encounter with extraterrestrial life. Wine has a lot to say about human nature and we thought it a good idea to encourage writers to think about the possible relationship between wine and aliens. We are sure that there will be many surprises in the way people imagine this encounter and also that our visitors will enjoy the readingmost likely with a glass of wine in their hand," says Luis Lechuga, director at Winetourismspain.com.
The travel portal believes that wine could play an important role in a possible future encounter with different worlds. "We tend to have a very limited image of what to expect from extraterrestrial life. Most images limit themselves to guns and threats, while the real interesting part is thinking about their possible routines and the small things that shape their daily lives"
This is the first short story contest launched by Winetourismspain.com in the English language, following a very successful short story contest Spanish.
About winetourismspain.com
Winetourismspain is Spains leading provider of wine and food travel. An ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) member, winetourismspain.com processes thousands of reservations per month from people eager to discover Spain in a different manner.
More information on www.winetourismspain.com can be found here.
Media contact: Luis Lechuga
Tel. (+34) 910145375
SOURCE Winetourismspain
Related Links
http://www.winetourismspain.com
NEW YORK, March 3, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Women Presidents' Educational Organization (WPEO) looked to the future and the potential impact that disruptive business technologies will have on women's business enterprises (WBEs) at its Annual Awards breakfast today. Several honors recognizing outstanding achievements were announced on behalf of WBEs, corporations and women's business advocates. These accolades reflect singular achievement and accomplishment by a dynamic community of certified women-owned businesses and companies that support them, located in the Northeast region -- including New York, Northern New Jersey, Southern Connecticut and the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia areas.
An increasing number of Fortune 1000 companies require that vendors be officially certified as women-owned entrepreneurs, in order to participate in their supplier diversity programs. WPEO confers the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) third-party certification, the nation's premier accreditation for companies that are at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by women. WPEO helps its Corporate Members tap into a pool of high caliber vendors and connects WBEs in a variety of industries with each other.
Winners of the Outstanding Corporation Awards meet stringent criteria. This includes significant accomplishments in support of WPEO women business enterprises and the women's business community, as well as innovation, participation in the proprietary Done Deals challenge and overall commitment to the WPEO mission. Advocate awardees are selected based on significant involvement with WPEO and support of women-owned businesses. The President's Award winners, selected by Marsha Firestone, Ph.D., WPEO President and Founder, and Sandra Eberhard, Executive Director, WPEO-DC, have gone above and beyond in their service to the WPEO.
The 2017 award winners include:
New York Region Outstanding Corporation New York Life
Insurance Company Outstanding Women's Business
Advocate Jay Sheldon Wesley, Head of Global Supplier & Diversity, Pitney
Bowes President's Award Kate Kleyman,
Supplier Diversity Manager,
Guggenheim Partners DC Region Outstanding Corporation Capital One Outstanding Business Advocate Ann Ramakumaran, Ampcus President's Award Darlene Fuller, Senior Director Supplier Diversity,
Sodexo
"The theme of the awards program this year is looking to the future," said Eliseo Rojas, Chief Procurement Officer, Interpublic Group and Chair, WPEO Board. "Every industry will be affected by disruptive business practices, such as artificial intelligence. Automation and robotics are having a significant impact to help reduce expenses, work smarter and drive efficiency. These disruptive business practices are revolutionizing the speed with which women business enterprises drive innovation and interact with their customers," he said.
"Staying competitive in a rapidly changing business ecosystem requires state-of-the-art technologies, sophisticated data and analytics" said WPEO President & Founder Dr. Marsha Firestone. "Women business enterprises in every vertical industry are addressing the impact of the new normal in competing for contracts," she said.
Sponsors for the 2017 WPEO Annual Awards Breakfast include:
Platinum Level: Dominion
Diamond Level : Ampcus; AARP; Avis Budget Group; Capital One; Interpublic Group; Microsoft Corporation; Wells Fargo
: Ampcus; AARP; Avis Budget Group; Capital One; Interpublic Group; Microsoft Corporation; Wells Fargo Corporate Lead: AIG; Bank of America; Consolidated Edison Company of New York ; Microsoft Corporation
; Microsoft Corporation WBE Lead: Adco Electrical Corporation; Atrium Staffing; Highroad Press; Progressive Promotions; The Studio
About The WPEO
The Women Presidents' Educational Organization (WPEO) is a regional affiliate of the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation's premier third-party certification organization for Women's Business Enterprises (WBEs). The mission of the WPEO is to create increased access to business opportunities for WBEs. Its programs develop skills and knowledge for WBEs, advocate in the public and private sectors, foster relationships between WBEs, corporations and the government, and provide full service, third-party certification to women entrepreneurs in areas that include New York, Northern New Jersey, Southern Connecticut, Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. WPEO is incorporated in the state of New York and is recognized as a 501(c) (3) organization. For more information please visit www.wpeo.us or call (212) 688-4114. Follow us on Twitter @WPEONYDC. Like us on Facebook @TheWpeo.
Contact: Susan Johnson
[email protected]
212-688-4114 Office
917-601-5778 Mobile
SOURCE Women Presidents' Educational Organization
Related Links
http://www.wpeo.us
The first bell rings and students flood into Rossiter Elementary School. Before getting to their classroom, they have a choice to make: cinnamon roll, bagel or breakfast cookie. Now, it's time to learn.
In the past, students came to school with a stomachache but no fever, and I would ask them, Are you hungry? They almost all said, Yes, says Candyce Kepler, school nurse at Rossiter.
That was until Jan. 11, when the school implemented the Breakfast After the Bell initiative, in which students can start the day with a shared breakfast in the classroom.
Nearly two months into the program, the school has given food to more than 100 students who qualified for free breakfast but never claimed it. Though not all students at the school receive free or reduced breakfast, some still pay the regular cost for food. First Lady Lisa Bullock visited the school Friday to see the success of the initiative firsthand.
A recent study by The Food Research & Action Center, an organization that works to eradicate domestic hunger and under-nutrition, found that Montana ranks among the top 10 states for percentage growth in free and reduced-price breakfast participation from school year 2014-2015 to school year 2015-2016.
Schools in Montana are committed to their students success and recognize that serving breakfast gives kids the energy they need to focus in the classroom, said First Lady Bullock. We are taking steps in the right direction to increase breakfast participation, and ultimately, put an end to childhood hunger in Montana.
Rossiter fourth grade teacher Patrick Rieley says he has seen a marked increase in not only the attentiveness of his students, but also the efficiency with which the students calm down and become engaged in the academic process.
One concern for school officials upon implementation was how to keep the classroom clean with the introduction of food.
Its gone flawlessly, Rieley said regarding the students keeping the classroom mess-free. He says because the students do not like to work in a dirty environment, they do a great job keeping the breakfast from causing a mess in the classroom.
I think it's great, because if you are late you still get to eat it, one of Rieley's students chimed as the first lady chatted with students.
In some classrooms, students can add their unwanted food items -- raisins, fruit, etc. -- to a share table that other students can eat from later in the day or during a snack time.
The initiative is not new to the state. In fall 2014, the governor and first lady launched the initiative to encourage schools to implement new breakfast programs or convert existing programs to alternative breakfast models that are proven to increase student participation.
Through the Breakfast after the Bell initiative:
The governor and first lady, in partnership with Montana No Kid Hungry, have awarded $235,000 to Montana schools through private partnerships.
There are now 139 schools across Montana that have made breakfast part of the school day.
There are now more than 1,014,133 more breakfast meals served to Montana students each year.
The number of breakfast meals served increased by 7 percent in the 2014-2015 school year and by 11.4 percent in the 2015-2016 school year.
We know that when kids have a healthy meal to start their day, they perform better in school, said Gov. Steve Bullock. More students in Montana now have access to the meals they need to grow and learn -- and as a result, weve seen improved student behavior, fewer disciplinary referrals, and better test scores.
Next week is National School Breakfast week, and all students in the district get free breakfast through the week.
Clarification: The story has been updated to clarify that not all Rossiter students get free breakfast.
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Kolkata, Feb 27 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday urged private hospitals across the state to draw a line between business and service while ordering a stop to child smuggling and kidney rackets in both private and state-run establishments.
"Who gave permission to set up hospitals in the suburbs in name of Kolkata's PG hospital? No kidney racket will be allowed to run in the name of any hospital or nursing home. There will be no child smuggling in name of nursing homes, whether in private or government set ups," Banerjee said.
She was speaking at the inauguration of Kamalnayan Bajaj Sankara Nethralaya, the second centre of Sankara Nethralaya in Bengal.
Promising support to private entities in the healthcare sector in the state, the Trinamool Congress supremo, however, warned them against fleecing patients.
"I have no complaints against you (Sankara Nethralaya). You have just started. You are a new-born baby. Let us watch, let us see. It is not our duty to interfere in internal matters. Our state government is ready to provide full cooperation to you (to private sector) but not for fleecing the poor and appeasing some," she said.
Banerjee cautioned against the unbridled money-making attitude of the private sector.
"If this is allowed to go unbridled, this will not be a business, it will be a butcher shop. Please take care of the commoner and draw a line between business and service. Hospital is not a business. It's a sacrifice, it's a self-less service," she said.
She said the state government's complaints are not against each and every private hospital rather a section of them.
"This issue (unethical money making) has become important. I readied a bill (for the proposed West Bengal Regulatory Health Commission) before coming to the inauguration. Negligence is a crime. Let us start afresh," she urged the private sector.
However, Banerjee didn't spare the government hospitals in her speech for unethical practices.
"There must be some kind of mistake (by both private and government sector) that is why this situation has come. District private hospitals too I appeal to think about drawing a line," she said.
But she also conceded that government hospital expenses are exceeding the budget and a balance needs to be brought about.
"We are incurring a lot of expense in our own hospitals. I can't say no to patients from neighbouring states and to treat patients free we are exceeding our budget. We will think about it later, how to bring about a balance," she said.
In apparent reference to the Apollo Gleneagles patient death where the city based private hospital allegedly refused to release a patient over money and even taking possession of his fixed deposit certificates, Banerjee dubbed it "excess".
"One girl had come crying to us yesterday (Sunday) saying all savings in the form of fixed deposit certificate was taken up by the hospital. Isn't this excess? Please do not ask those who can't afford, to submit fixed deposit certificates or anything like that," she said.
"Even if somebody tells me that you get admitted to my hospital and I will bill you Rs 5 lakh I will not be able to pay. Should I resort to thievery or dacoity then," she wondered.
Washington, Feb 28 : George W. Bush broke his silence on President Donald Trump's leadership, after refusing to criticise publicly those who succeeded him since he left the Oval Office eight years ago, a media report said on Monday.
"I don't like the racism and I don't like the name-calling and I don't like the people feeling alienated," Bush, 70, told People magazine in an interview.
"Nobody likes that".
The former President, joined by his wife Laura, spoke to the magazine in the painting studio of their Dallas home to launch his first art book, "Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief's Tribute to America's Warriors".
The collection of portraits of the injured warriors of America's war on terror aims to raise awareness and funds for the post-9/11 veterans' health care and employment programmes of the George W. Bush Presidential Centre.
Talking about the Trump's January 20 inauguration, which was attended by both the former President and his wife, Bush said: "First of all, we were thrilled to be there. It's a beautiful ceremony, it really is. It's a peaceful transfer of power, which is very reassuring."
However, Bush called the political climate in Trump's Washington "pretty ugly", but said he was not feeling anxious about the direction of the country.
"Not really. I'm optimistic about where we'll end up. A We've been through these periods before and we've always had a way to come out of it. I'm more optimistic than some."
Asked if he felt compelled to play a leadership role in these divisive times, Bush said: "No. When President (Brack) Obama got elected, friends would call and say 'You must speak out! You must do this, you must do that'. Turns out, other people are doing the same thing this time. I didn't feel like speaking out before because I didn't want to complicate the job and I'm not going to this time. However, at the Bush Centre we are speaking up."
A spokesman for the former President previously told People magazine that neither he nor the former first lady voted for Trump or for Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton in the November 8 election.
The couple cast write-in votes for a candidate they did not reveal.
New Delhi, Feb 28 : External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has hailed the heroism of American Ian Grillot who was injured while trying to stop a gunman who killed an Indian in a hate crime.
Grillot suffered bullet wounds and is in hospital during the shooting in a Kansas bar last week.
"India salutes the heroism of Ian Grillot! Best wishes for a speedy recovery," Sushma Swaraj tweeted on Monday night.
Srinivas Kuchibhotla, 32, was killed and his colleague Alok Madasani was injured when Adam W. Purinton, formerly of the US Navy, shot them at the Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas state, on February 22.
Purinton reportedly got into an argument with the two and hurled racial slurs. He yelled "get out of my country" before shooting them.
Grillot, 24, who tried to save the Indians, was hit by a bullet that pierced his hand and then lodged in his chest.
Brussels, March 2 : The European Commission on Thursday presented a new plan of action that would accelerate the process of returning to their home countries those migrants who were not granted asylum.
The plan includes recommendations to member states on how best to achieve this goal, such as detaining people who do not show signs of obeying expulsion orders or accelerating the analysis of asylum requests to avoid system abuse, Efe news reported.
"We need to give protection to those in need, but we must also return those who have no right to stay in the European Union (EU), in full compliance with the fundamental rights and the principle of non-refoulement," said Commissioner for Migration, Dimitris Avramopoulos, at a press conference.
It also suggests establishing programmes by June to assist voluntary returns and improve the coordination between authorities and services involved in the return of immigrants.
According to Avramopoulos, the plan was established in order to reduce the pressure on the asylum request system, assure there are enough resources to protect those who most need it and send a strong signal against the idea of making dangerous journeys to the EU.
He insisted that all points on the plan were fully within EU legislation and respected fundamental rights.
"We need to equip our migration policy to better deal with those who don't come for humanitarian reasons, so they too can come in a legal and regular way, whether it's for work, family or study," he added.
In order to help countries with returns, the Commission is considering, among other things, increasing financial support to member states with 200 million euros ($210 million) in 2017 for national efforts as well as for joint return or reintegration activities at a European level.
The EC also seeks to overcome the challenges of returned migrants in their countries by working to conclude negotiations on re-admission agreements with Nigeria, Tunisia and Jordan soon, and to create similar deals with Morocco and Algeria in this regard.
New York, March 3 : The Senate on Thursday confirmed former Texas Governor Rick Perry as President Donald Trump's energy secretary.
With a 62-37 vote, Perry comes to the Department of Energy after serving for 15 years as the governor of the US state with the greatest production of hydrocarbons, Efe news agency reported.
The 66-year-old Perry, who governed from 2000-2015, was one of Trump's rivals in the Republican presidential primaries, but he withdrew from the race early after he was unable to garner sufficient support in the voter surveys.
Trump has expressed skepticism on numerous occasions about the effects of climate change and is dismantling many of the environmental protection measures implemented by his predecessor, Barack Obama.
Along those lines, one of his first moves upon arriving in the White House was to unblock the construction of two large oil pipelines - the Dakota Access and the Keystone XL -- that the Obama administration had frozen.
During his confirmation hearings, Perry had said that he is committed to modernizing the US nuclear arsenal, promoting and developing US energy in all areas, moving forward on basic science and technology in the energy field and carefully disposing of nuclear waste.
In an embarrassing incident during the 2012 Republican presidential primary debates, in which he participated, Perry attempted to list three federal agencies he said he considered unnecessary, but he forgot the third one: the Department of Energy.
During his time as governor, Perry -- benefitting from generally high oil prices -- presided over a surge in the state economy, job growth and business creation based on tax incentives.
Married and the father of two, Perry left the governor's mansion with a popularity rating of 60 percent, albeit amid uncertainty over the plunge in the price of crude.
New York, March 3 : US Attorney General Jeff Sessions said he will recuse himself from any investigations into Russia's possible link with Donald Trump's presidential campaign.
The statement comes a day after media reports revealed he spoke with Russian Ambassador twice last year but didn't reveal it at the Senate hearings for his confirmation.
"I did meet with one Russian official a couple of times", Xinhua news agency quoted him as saying at a press conference on Thursday, while dismissing any accusation that he tried to mislead the Senate about his contacts with Russia.
"That is not my intent. That is not correct", he said.
His agreement to step aside from such probes "should not be interpreted as confirmation of the existence of any investigation," Sessions added.
Earlier on Thursday, Trump told reporters that he has "total" confidence in Sessions over the controversy though he "wasn't aware" that Sessions, the then Republican senator, had contact with Sergey Kislyak, the Russian ambassador to the US at the time.
But bipartisan pressure for Sessions to resign or step aside from such investigations is mounting as top Democrats at the Capitol, Nancy Pelosi in the House and Chuck Schumer in the Senate, urged him to depart.
Sessions lied under oath at the Senate hearings, Pelosi accused earlier Thursday.
Schumer said the Justice Department should appoint a special prosecutor to examine whether the ongoing probe has been compromised by Sessions.
Sessions spoke on the phone privately with Russian Ambassador to Washington from his office in September, said media reports on Wednesday night.
Two months before the phone talk, Sessions also met with Kislayk and talked to him informally when attending an event held at conservative think tank Heritage Foundation along with 50 other ambassadors, Session's spokeswoman Sara Isgur Flores has confirmed.
"It was short and informal," the spokeswoman said Wednesday night, adding that as a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee at the time, Sessions regularly met foreign ambassadors.
"I never met with any Russian officials to discuss issues of the campaign. I have no idea what this allegation is about. It's false", Sessions released a statement around midnight in a failed attempt to count down the new wave of political storm.
During the Senate hearings earlier this year, when asked what he would do if he learned a member of Trump's campaign had communicated with the Russian government over the course of the 2016 campaign, Sessions responded: "I'm not aware of any of those activities ... I have been called a surrogate at a time or two in that campaign and I did not have communications with the Russians."
Officials at the Justice Department said Sessions did not consider his talks with Kislyak relevant to the lawmakers' questions and did not remember their discussion in detail.
Sessions was an early Trump supporter and one of his top advisers during the New York billionaire's campaign last year.
Trump's first National Security Adviser Michael Flynn stepped down last month after it was reported that he had discussed U.S. sanctions with Kislyak in December, and misled Vice President Mike Pence about the details.
Washington, March 3 : US Attorney General Jeff Sessions, facing widespread criticism over newly disclosed contacts with the Russian ambassador to Washington, recused himself from any probe into charges that Russia meddled in the 2016 presidential election, the media reported.
He made the remarks at a media conference on Thursday following Justice Department officials claiming on Wednesday that Sessions spoke to Ambassador Sergey Kislyak twice last year, the encounters which he did not disclose during his Congressional confirmation hearing to become the Attorney General in January.
"They (Justice Department) said that since I had involvement with the campaign, I should not be involved in any campaign investigation," Sessions said, adding that he concurred with their assessment and would thus recuse himself from any existing or future investigation involving President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign, The Washington Post reported.
However, Trump stood by Jeff Sessions on Thursday, saying the Attorney General did not make any misleading statements under oath during his confirmation hearings, but that he could have been more accurate in his responses to lawmakers.
"Jeff Sessions is an honest man. He did not say anything wrong. He could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not intentional," CNN reported citing the President as saying.
"This whole narrative is a way of saving face for Democrats losing an election that everyone thought they were supposed to win. The Democrats are overplaying their hand. They lost the election and now, they have lost their grip on reality.
"The real story is all of the illegal leaks of classified and other information. It is a total witch hunt," the President added.
Later Thursday night, Sessions told Fox News that he plans to submit a "supplement" to the record of his congressional testimony, detailing the meetings he did not mention at the time.
"My response went to the question indicated about the continuing surrogate relationship that I firmly denied and correctly denied, and I did not mention in that time that I had met with the ambassador," Sessions said.
"So I will definitely make that a part of the record as I think is appropriate."
Sessions said the decision to recuse himself followed his promise to the Senate Judiciary Committee to avoid any semblance of a conflict of interest between his new role and previous position as a strong supporter of the Trump campaign.
It was also the result of consultations with career Justice Department officials, he said.
White House spokesman Sean Spicer meanwhile billed the controversy arising from this news as a "partisan thing that we've seen over and over again".
"This continues to be a question of: there's no there there," Spicer said.
Several Democratic members of the House of Representatives on Wednesday night called on Sessions to resign from his post.
The Justice Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation -- both under Sessions' supervision -- are in charge of investigating alleged Russian interference in the presidential election, besides alleged links between Trump's campaign and the Kremlin.
Chennai, March 3 : Actor Dhanush on Friday expressed immense excitement over the audio of his upcoming Tamil directorial debut "Power Paandia.
"'Power Paandi' audio. Six more days to go. So excited about this audio. A Sean Roldan musical. I can't wait for you guys to listen to it," Dhanush tweeted.
The film, which stars veteran actor Raj Kiran, also features Dhanush in a cameo as the younger version of the former.
It's tipped to be based on the lives of a few stuntmen.
Also starring Prasanna and Chaya Singh, the film is slated for release on April 14, to coincide with Dhanush's mother's birthday.
The film has been bankrolled by Dhanush.
Taipei, March 3 : Taiwan is seeking a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)-like bilateral agreement with India to boost trade and investments even as its companies are looking to relocate some of their manufacturing facilities from mainland China to India and Southeast Asia.
"What we are looking for with India is an FTA-like agreement," Chern-Chyi Chen, Deputy Director General of the Bureau of Foreign Trade in the Taiwanese Ministry of Economic Affairs, said in an interaction here with a group of visiting journalists.
"The work for such an agreement started in 2012," he stated.
India and Taiwan do not have formal diplomatic relations but both have representative offices in either country.
However, under a new foreign policy, dubbed the New Southbound Policy, adopted by Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's government, the self-ruled east Asian island nation is striving to broaden exchanges and cooperation with India and five South Asian nations, the 10 member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), and Australia and New Zealand in areas such as commerce, culture and technology.
This will mean lesser dependence on mainland China for Taiwan's economic development. Taiwan is the world's 22nd-largest economy and was dubbed one of the four Asian tigers in the late 20th century, the others being Hong Kong, Singapore and South Korea.
With the new foreign policy in place, Chen said that his "government is active and we want to move fast".
Asked if the New Southbound Policy would come in conflict with China's One Belt One Road (OBOR) policy, he stated: "I see this (OBOR) as very fundamentally different from our New Southbound Policy. We are not competing with China but what we are doing is integrating with the Asean countries and India more."
Stating that Taiwan was among the top four investors in China, he said that "we need to diversify our investments" but added that "we are not going to give up our market in mainland China".
Chen said that trade and investment cooperation, resources sharing, regional linkages and people-to-people exchanges were four important pillars of the New Southbound Policy.
"Ties between most of these countries and Taiwan are complementary," he said.
There are over 90 Taiwanese companies in India and over 50 per cent of them are in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector, he said.
"In terms of industrial development cooperation with India, we are in the stage of stock-taking maybe in sectors like food processing and chemicals," Chen said.
Kristy Hsu, Director of the Taiwan Asean Studies Centre in the Chung Hua Institution for Economic Research, said that Taiwanese companies were already responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to Make in India.
"Companies like Foxconn and Wistron will make iPhones in India in the not too distant future," she stated.
Hsu cited figures of the World Investment Report according to which FDI outflows from Taiwan rose significantly by 16 per cent to $15 billion in 2015.
"Companies are gradually relocating manufacturing facilities from China to Southeast Asia and India to respond to the establishment of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) and Asean+6 (RCEP)," she said.
The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a mega-regional economic agreement being negotiated by the 10 members-states of the Asean and and their six FTA partners -- Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.
According to Kevin Lin, Deputy Director General of the Department of International Information Services in Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Taiwan wants to be a part of RCEP.
"We have many challenges. We will have to talk with individual countries and want win-win deals," he said.
Lin also said that Taiwan would like to join the China-initiated Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) too, "but it depends on what conditions we are allowed to join".
(Aroonim Bhuyan visited Taiwan at the invitation of the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He can be contacted at aroonim.b@ians.in)
Islamabad, March 3 : The Pakistan government is not considering to extradite Indian "spy" Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was arrested for allegedly being involved in "subversive activities" in Pkaistan, Foreign Affairs Advisor Sartaj Aziz told the Senate on Friday.
Jadhav was reportedly arrested in Balochistan after entering the country from Iran.
According to Aziz, an FIR has been registered against the alleged Indian agent, Dawn online reported.
When asked if the government was planning to give the same 'red carpet' treatment to Jadhav, which they gave to CIA contractor Raymond Davis, Aziz explained: "It has never been said that there was any lack of evidence against him."
"We have prepared an FIR and a case to prosecute the Indian state actor for (his) involvement in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan," Aziz told the House during Question Hour.
The Pakistan Army had earlier released a "confessional video" of Jadhav, in which he said he was a serving Indian Navy officer.
India has acknowledged Jadhav as a retired Indian Navy officer, but denied that he was in any way connected to the government.
Aziz said Islamabad has shared a dossier with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on New Delhi's involvement in internal affairs of Pakistan and in subversive and terrorist activities in the country.
"This dossier includes details about Kulbashan Jadhav and his activities."
The Advisor also informed the dossier was prepared on the basis of thorough ground work and inputs from various departments.
According to Geo Tv, the dossier was a way forward to work on the prosecution of Jadhav.
"This is very delicate and sensitive issue and requires detailed preparations and home work as it relates to direct or indirect involvement of Indian state actor in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan."
He said Pakistan's view point on this issue is being accepted internationally and the government has also sent a list of questions to the Indian government on this matter.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Senator Aitzaz Ahsan said: "I had announced that if Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif mentions Jadhav's name in his speech, I will donate Rs 50,000 to Pakistan Association of the Blind."
When asked if Sharif had spoken about Jadhav, Aziz said: "When the time is appropriate, the Prime Minister will speak about him."
New Delhi, March 3 : After arriving in India in January last year, Chinese internet and technology conglomerate LeEco fast became the "true disrupter" in the evolving Indian smartphone market with its huge marketing spend -- and the announcement of a state-of-the-art assembling/manufacturing unit.
News that the company has fired 85 per cent of its India staff across the sales, marketing and distribution departments -- and confirmed by a company source to IANS on Friday -- has effectively punctured a mammoth dream just within a year.
The source also confirmed to IANS that both Atul Jain, Chief Operating Officer, Smart Electronics Business, and Debashish Ghosh, Chief Operating Officer for Internet Applications, Services and Content, were "asked to leave" and had not quit as reported.
Speculation is also rife that LeEco may finally exit the country after spending millions on promoting its ecosystem of "superphones" and "super TVs".
"LeEco is in serious financial trouble and has, as a consequence, practically ceased India operations. The staff layoffs are a direct consequence of this. Even in the previous quarter, their shipments were close to zero," Jaideep Mehta, Managing Director, IDC South Asia, told IANS.
After its entry into India, the company launched five superphones, a LeEco membership of content and internet services, its e-commerce platform LeMall and, most recently, "SuperTVs".
"LeEco, as the name suggests, was built on the premise of an ecosystem. The device would open a user to an ecosystem and it was not just a smartphone. However, for a country like India, and even for many countries globally, this ecosystem isn't ready yet. Paid content consumption hasn't become big enough for a company to survive while earning nothing on the device itself," Faisal Kawoosa, Principal Analyst, Telecoms, CyberMedia Research (CMR), told IANS.
On the contrary, if you see other handset brands, to an extent they too make money from content, but as value-added earnings -- which is just a fraction of the actual earnings out of the device. For them, it is akin to average revenue per user (ARPU) of a telecom operator where the operator wants to earn more per user by offering additional services.
"LeEco came in to disrupt this business model and make the secondary streams of earnings as their primary. For that to happen, the ecosystem hasn't arrived yet. So their positioning as well as proposition went wrong. It dismayed a user to see nothing extraordinary in terms of Device+ strategy," Kawoosa added.
In August, LeEco announced a $7 million manufacturing unit in Greater Noida in the presence of IT and Electronics Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.
"As the market size for electronics is expected to grow to $400 billion by 2020, it is imperative to promote indigenous manufacturing. LeEco is a name of global reputation and it is heartening to see it align with 'Make in India' after entering India just eight months earlier," Prasad had told the gathering.
LeEco planned to ramp up the production to approximately 200,000 "superphones" per month by the end of 2016, before a severe financial crunch caught up with the company.
"I think there was a disconnect with their go-to-market strategy. Being an online player they spending was almost like a player with an offline distribution strategy. Although their products were good, it was the overall marketing strategy that led to quick cash-burn," Tarun Pathak, Senior Analyst, Mobile Devices and Ecosystems at New Delhi-based Counterpoint Research, told IANS.
According to Kawoosa, for few years, LeEco should have positioned itself as a brand offering better specs of hardware at affordable prices.
"Eventually, as the ecosystem would have matured, they could have played the LeEco card," Kawoosa told IANS.
For assembling/manufacturing in India, LeEco had partnered with the US-based company M2i which will continue to manufacture for others if, by any chance, LeEco doesn't continue to manufacture in India.
"I would say, these experiments will go on and we may see brands coming in and out for manufacturing in India. For 'Make in India', I wouldn't consider this as a blow yet," Pathak noted.
Given the LeEco experience, other smartphone players need to look at their scale of operations and play to their strengths.
"Since India is a such a diverse market, one strategy doesn't lead to guaranteed success throughout the country. With the smartphone segment being so competitive, and amidst razor-thin margins, brands need to watch their campaigns and invest wisely," added Kawoosa.
"It is simply a case of an over-ambitious company going under," Mehta noted.
(Nishant Arora can be contacted at nishant.a@ians.in)
Seoul, March 3 : North Korean leaflets were found in the South Korean city of Incheon on Friday, police said.
Police retrieved some 810 leaflets that carried messages that criticised the South Korean government, with images of missiles and the national map, near an apartment complex, Yonhap News Agency reported.
The leaflets were all handed over to the military for a more detailed examination.
South Korea's civic group Fighters for a Free North Korea (FFNK) is also planning to launch leaflets criticising Pyongyang next week, according to Park Sang-hak, a North Korean defector who leads the group.
Tel Aviv/New Delhi, March 3 : Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, who is visiting Israel, has met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to lay the groundwork for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit this year, most likely in June.
Netanyahu's office tweeted a photo of his meeting Doval in Tel Aviv.
"PM Netanyahu met with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval as part of the preparations for Indian PM @NarendraModi's visit to Israel," the tweet said.
Israeli envoy to India Daniel Carmon also tweeted about Doval's visit, terming it a "short but very important visit".
The upcoming visit of Modi, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel, comes as both countries celebrate 25 years of diplomatic ties.
Modi's visit comes after Israeli President Reuven Rivlin's trip to India last November, which marked growing closeness between the two nations.
Rivlin was the first Israeli head of state to visit India in nearly 20 years. The last Israeli president to visit India was Ezer Weizman, in January 1997.
The Israeli President's visit followed that by President Pranab Mukherjee's Israel trip in 2015 -- which marked the highest level visit from India since 1992, since establishment of diplomatic ties by the P.V. Narasimha Rao government.
Signalling its warming relations with Israel, India had in July 2015 abstained from a vote against Tel Aviv in the United Nations Human Rights Council that blamed Israel for "war crimes" during Operation Protective Edge.
Since the upgradation of relations in 1992, defence and agriculture have been the main pillars of bilateral engagement, with other areas such as science and technology, education and homeland security also important areas of cooperation.
Some major defence deals are expected to be inked between the two sides during Modi's visit.
Agra, March 3 : Calling the violence that happened on the sets of his upcoming film "Bhoomi" a "shame" and apologising for it, actor Sanjay Dutt says he would have tackled it with love and his 'jaadu ki jhappi'.
"I was not there on the sets when the incident took place. My pack-up was done long time back. Had I been there, the incident wouldn't have taken place...through our films, a city also gets promoted and if such a mishap happens, then it's a shame for everybody," Sanjay, who said he is also a Uttar Pradesh and Bihar person, told reporters here on Friday.
"Had I been there, I would have sorted the issue with love and my 'jaadu ki jhappi' (magical hug). I also apologised in front of media yesterday (Thursday)," said the "Munna Bhai M.B.B.S." star.
On Thursday evening, the shooting near the Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Centre on Shilpgram Road, some 500 metres away from Taj Mahal, was called off after the incident.
A TV journalist told IANS that the bouncers not only physically targeted some of them, but even snatched away his expensive camera.
Police officials at the Taj Ganj police station told IANS that a written complaint from the victim -- the TV journalist -- has been received and the matter was being investigated.
The TV journalist on Friday said the police showed no interest and no effort was being made to get back his equipment. Local journalists have demanded action against the unit of the film, helmed by the "Mary Kom" fame director Omung Kumar.
Though the bouncers have apologised and called for truce, tempers continue to run high.
Shooting for the film has been going on for the past 10 days in different parts of the city.
A wedding scene was also shot on Thursday and a big crowd collected for the marriage in a haveli in Bamrauli Katara.
As of now, Sanjay, who was released from the Yerwada Central Jail in Pune last year, is pumped up about returning to films.
"When I reached the 'Bhoomi' sets, I was back with a bang," he said.
It's not often anyone is presented with a right-place, right-time, right-person scenario especially in politics.
However unexpected, I believe the confirmation Ryan Zinke as Secretary of the Interior has presented this exact situation for Montanans.
That's why I'm supporting Dan West for the Democratic nominee for Zinke's replacement in Montana's upcoming special election for the U.S. House of Representatives.
It was only at the urging of mutual friends that Dan decided to run. This set off a ground swell of grassroots support. The campaign now has a manager, field director and major momentum.
This momentum is a testament to Dan, who grew up in Montana and spent time working in the Senate and as a congressional liaison for NASA.
He's the right person at the right time to hit reset on our Congressional representation because of this balance of practical experience and homegrown values that will encourage equality, stewardship, and inclusion. You can learn more at www.DanWestforMontana.com.
I hope you'll use this moment to reflect on Montana's future what you really want for Montana and her future generations. Dan is someone we can rely on to protect our place and ALL of its people.
Jenna Cederberg
Helena
Washington, March 3 : An Indian-American man has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for a multi-million dollar fraud scheme.
Amit Chaudhry, 44, from Ashburn, Virginia, pleaded guilty on September 21 last year to identity theft, money laundering and visa fraud.
"I never really dreamt of being a felon. This is going to haunt me for the rest of my life," Chaudhry said in Alexandria federal court on Thursday before being sentenced, the Washington Post reported.
According to the report, Chaudhry, who emigrated from India in 1992, helped his relatives overseas to operate a multimillion-dollar scam that involved money laundering from stolen credit cards and identities through shell bank accounts.
He was also part of a related scheme, advertising cheap travel packages. Clients' money would be stolen and their hotel and airfare would be paid for with stolen credit cards.
They also made more than $25 million off fake credit cards with the help of a co-conspirator working at American Express in India, the Washington Post report said.
The group also used images of fake passports.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) uncovered the scheme in part when an agent recognised a photo in one passport as actress Laura Vandervoot. The photo was taken from a scene of her television show "V" involving visas.
"What we're dealing with here is not a casual wrong turn," said Jeffrey Abish, the chief information officer for the defrauded company ActioNet.
Chaudhry sent inflated and imagined IT invoices to the company, netting $4.1 million that he has now pledged to repay, according to the report.
Defence attorney Danny Onorato told The Post that "this was all done out of family loyalty".
Onorato added that Chaudhry has been diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, which might help explain his behaviour.
However, Assistant US Attorney Katherine Wong protested Onorato's argument, saying: "Asperger's doesn't cause anyone to steal or open credit card accounts in someone else's name."
Chaudhry is cooperating with authorities, who are still finding more victims and tracking down co-conspirators in the US and abroad.
Shillong, March 3 : Meghalaya's taxation department is fully geared up for the smooth implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Governor Banwarilal Purohit said on Friday.
"This new indirect tax regime in India will be the most significant tax reform which will merge the two spheres of indirect taxation currently collected under the Central Sales Tax Act," he said while addressing the assembly at the beginning of its budget session.
However, Purohit said that Meghalaya will retain the taxation on sale of high speed diesel, motor spirit and alcohol for human consumption.
The Governor also informed that the tax collection under Meghalaya Value Added Tax Act is expected to increase by 15 per cent annually.
"E-services have been successfully implemented which are in line with the ease of doing business initiative of the central government," Purohit told the legislators.
He also informed that tax payment under the Meghalaya Passenger & Goods Taxation Act of any taxable vehicle crossing the check point gates in the state can now be viewed online, adding that this system is expected to augment revenue collection.
Purohit said the excise department has taken steps towards generating more revenue even while complying with the restrictions imposed by the Supreme Court on opening of wine shops along the National and State Highways.
He said the rate of tax as the rate of transport pass fee and import pass fee for Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), beer and wine has been increased.
Lucknow, March 3 : The situation in Uttar Pradesh's violence-hit Lakhimpur Kheri, where an objectionable video on Hindu deities on social media led to communal clashes, leaving two injured, is getting back to normal, officials said on Friday.
Four persons have been arrested - one for organising the protests and three in connection with the video, police said.
Inspector General of Police, Lucknow zone, Satish Ganesh told IANS that movement of essential commodities has been restored and that Vinod Gupta, one of those accused of inciting violence, has been arrested.
He said that he, Divisional Commissioner Bhuvnesh Kumar and Deputy Inspector General, Lucknow range, Pravir Kumar had been camping in the area since Thursday night.
Injured Sachin Gupta, who was rushed to the trauma centre in Lucknow after he sustained gunshot wounds on Thursday night, has been operated upon and he is now out of danger. "No major organ was involved, a surgical procedure was done on him and the blood loss replenished," a doctor told IANS.
Members of one community became angered on Thursday after the video surfaced and they downed shutters in major markets and took out protest marches. At some places they scuffled with police.
Late Thursday night, the two communities came face to face and there was some vandalism of shops in Kharwaranganj and Kucchehri areas. Shots were fired thereafter, which left two injured. Police said two persons -- Gupta and Ravi Vishwakarma -- sustained bullet injuries and are being treated. Gupta was sent to Lucknow for treatment while Ravi is being treated at the district hospital.
Police say they have arrested a Muslim youth along with two other accomplices in connection with the video.
Cases have been registered against Ahmad, Faizal and Aarif under sections 66 a (2), 295 a, 153 a (b) and section 4 of the IT Act. The accused were taken to jail late on Thursday night. The chief judicial magistrate was called there and he sent them to judicial custody after a brief hearing.
Police is since trying to pacify the angry mobs and have assured that the accused will be charged under the stringent National Security Act.
Hyderabad, March 3 : A police sub-inspector shot dead his wife and tried to commit suicide by the same service revolver in Siddipet district of Telangana on Friday, police said.
The incident occurred in police quarters in Dubbak town.
Chitti Babu, who is serving as SI in Dubbak police station, opened fire on his wife Rekha. She died instantaneously.
The policeman shot himself with the same weapon. He was rushed to a hospital, where his condition is stated to be critical.
The SI was suspended on charges of corruption. He allegedly resorted to the action due to severe depression.
Police said they were investigating the reasons for the SI's action.
The family members alleged that he was being harassed by some senior officials. Some Dalit groups staged a protest, demanding action against those who harassed Chitti Babu.
Islamabad, March 3 : Pakistan's top foreign policy advisor Sartaj Aziz on Friday ruled out extradition of alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav, saying categorically - "There is no such possibility."
Briefing lawmakers in the Senate, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Adviser on Foreign Affairs Aziz rejected reports that Jadhav will be released at some stage. Aziz said a case was being prepared to prosecute Jadhav, who was arrested from Balochistan in March last year.
Aziz said "It has never been said that there was any lack of evidence against Jadhav".
Jadhav in a video had "confessed" that he was working for India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) to create instability in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan and Karachi, which India has denied.
"We have prepared an FIR and a case is in the process of registration to prosecute the Indian state actor for involvement in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan," Aziz told the Senate in response to a query during question hour, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan.
The Foreign Affairs Adviser also said that a dossier has been shared with United Nations Secretary General on "Indian involvement" in the internal affairs of Pakistan. "This dossier includes details about Kulbhushan Jadhav and his activities," he said.
"The government is also examining the possibility of sharing the dossier with other countries and international organisations," he added.
Explaining the details of the dossier presented to the UN, Aziz said it was based on thorough ground work and inputs from various departments. "This is a very delicate and sensitive issue and requires detailed preparations and home work as it relates to direct or indirect involvement of Indian state actor in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan," he added.
Claiming that Pakistan's viewpoint on the issue of Indian involvement was being accepted internationally, he said the government also sent a list of questions to New Delhi on the matter.
"Dossier is not the only route to deal with this issue as actual route to settle this issue is prosecution for which the case is being prepared," the adviser explained.
New Delhi, March 3 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday accused the central government of manipulating the GDP figures, saying those are "based on lies".
"The whole nation knows that the figures are manipulated. They are based on lies," Kejriwal told reporters here.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader's statement comes a day after the Congress also slammed the central government, saying it "fudged figures" on India's GDP growth.
The official data released on Tuesday showed that India's GDP for the third quarter ending December 31 stood at Rs 30.28 lakh crore, recording a growth of seven per cent.
Kejriwal said the people of India had stopped trusting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government.
"When demonetisation was going on, every week they (central government) used to announce how many old notes had come back to the RBI (Reserve Bank of India).
"Now three months have passed and the Centre is still not making it public how many notes finally returned. They say the notes are still being counted," Kejriwal said.
Moscow, March 3 : Russia's Foreign Minister pushed back on Friday at assertions that his country's US Ambassador is a spy, and echoed US President Donald Trump's contention that the controversy over contacts between Kremlin officials and Trump's campaign is "a witch hunt".
Sergey Lavrov was speaking at a press conference alongside Salvadoran Foreign Minister Hugo Martinez, who was on a visit to Moscow.
"I cannot refer to a quote spread in the media today. All this looks very much like a witch-hunt. Or the days of McCarthyism, which we thought had long passed in the US," said Lavrov.
Lavrov was referring to the recent accusations that US Attorney General Jeff Sessions had lied under oath when he said he "did not have communications with the Russians" during the Trump election campaign, Efe news reported.
US Justice Department has since confirmed that Sessions had, indeed, held a meeting with Russian Ambassador Sergei Kislyak two months before the US presidential election.
Democrats have called for the Republican official to stand down, but President Trump defended him and also accused the Democrats of a witch-hunt.
"Jeff Sessions is an honest man. He did not say anything wrong. He could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not intentional," said Trump on Twitter.
Lavrov said ambassadors were appointed to maintain bilateral relations and they did this by holding meetings and conversations with members of the executive.
The accusations lodged against Sessions came a month on from similar claims against the former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, who later stepped down.
Kislyak is considered by US intelligence to be one of Russia's top spies and spy recruiters in Washington, said a CNN report, citing current and former senior US government officials.
But Russia's Foreign Ministry angrily rejected spy allegations amid controversy over meetings Kislyak held with US Attorney General Jeff Sessions.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Thursday insisted Kislyak was "a well-known, world-class diplomat".
Rabat, March 3 : Morocco participated in the 23rd edition of Equip Auto exhibition, which was held from February 27 to March 2 in Algiers.
The show, which gathered more than 300 exhibitors and over 10,000 professional visitors has become the main exchanging point for the professionals of after-sales and service for all vehicles.
The event highlighted the Moroccan automotive offer on the Maghreb market, notably in Algeria, and was an opportunity for exporters to establish contacts in order to gain better access to this market.
The participation of Morocco in last year's Equip Auto was a huge success after racking up firm orders worth 300,000 euros.
New Delhi, March 3 : Some semblance of normalcy crept back to Delhi University on Friday, with more students attending classes even as the Congress-affiliated NSUI gifted roses to students outside Ramjas College - a week after violent clashes outside the college snowballed into a major political row and reignited the intolerance debate.
Ramjas College, which has been the focal point of sustained protests following the February 22 clashes, on Friday saw activists of the National Students Union of India (NSUI) launching 'Gift a Rose' campaign, and handing out roses to students, in their bid to restore peace in the campus.
While the continued deployment of nearly 100 policemen at the campus has ensured peace, the presence of the security personnel is a grim reminder of the violence that left over a dozen people injured.
The clashes between the RSS-affiliated ABVP and the Left-wing AISA erupted following the forceful suspension of an event to be addressed by JNU student Umar Khalid accused of sedition.
Wary of the incident, Shri Venkateshwara College under Delhi University has notified postponing of all its events scheduled in March.
Students and professors said the sustained protests has robbed the campus of its spirit and adversely affected academics.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Vinit Kumar told IANS that nearly 100 police personnel were deployed in the campus post the clashes and that police was in constant touch with university authorities to ensure peace.
Meanwhile, the political brick bats continued both outside and inside the campus.
The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) met Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal seeking police action against "anti-national" posters in the JNU campus.
After a meeting with Baijal, ABVP national media convener Saket Bahuguna said the Lieutenant Governor has assured them of taking up the matter of "anti-national" posters at the JNU, with the police.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal who has been up in arms against the Centre's ruling BJP and the ABVP over the Ramjas violence, fired fresh salvos.
He dubbed the Bharatiya Janata Party and the ABVP as "party of goons and rowdies" and said prevailing situation in the campus has got parents worried about their wards.
He also expressed his unhappiness at the death and rape threats against Delhi University student Gurmehar Kaur, who had launched a social media campaign against the ABVP.
Probing the threats case, Delhi police is communicating on phone and email with Kaur who is now out of Delhi.
Special Commissioner of Police Dependra Pathak told IANS that the efforts are on to nab the culprits and they have sought the help of Google search engine and Twitter's headquarters to track the IP addresses from which the threats were issued to Kaur.
Minister for Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi said the government will soon be launching an app for women internet users threatened with physical violence or trolled on social media websites.
She said the 'Women's panic button' with additional feature of 'Shouting App' will become operational by end of March
"As soon as distressed women will press the panic button the mobile phone will activate the 'shouting app' which will alert the nearest 10 mobile phones, where fellow citizens can come for her help before the police arrives," said Gandhi.
Dubai, March 3 : UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, on Friday received Philippines Foreign Minister Perfecto Yasay, who arrived here with his delegation.
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, also attended the reception.
The ruler of Dubai and Yasay reviewed bilateral relations during the meeting and ways to enhance them.
The vice president of United Arab Emirates (UAE) praised the contribution of the Filipino community in the development of the country, while the Philippines' Foreign Minister hailed the UAE's cultural boom at all avenues.
BOZEMAN Gov. Steve Bullock says the state Board of Regents may have to consider closing a college campus to absorb a $23.3 million university system budget cut the Legislature is proposing.
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports that Bullock made the comment while meeting with the newspaper's editorial board on Wednesday. He did not identify a specific campus for closure.
Bullock says he expects the universities and colleges to have to raise tuition.
Deputy Commissioner of Higher Education Kevin McRae says Commissioner Clay Christian has told lawmakers and regents that if the budget cut remains at $23.3 million it would probably require significant tuition increases, significant cuts in educational programs or both.
___
Information from: Bozeman Daily Chronicle, http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com
New Delhi, March 3 : An office-bearer of the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) on Friday disowned posters and hoardings which cropped up in the campus a day before showing instances of "communist violence".
"... We totally disown them. I have complained to the administration and the Delhi Police for misusing the name of DUSU. Why does ABVP have to put such horrifying images everywhere in the Delhi University to justify the violence it did on common students and professors the other day (February 22)," DUSU Joint Secretary, Mohit Garid, said in a statement.
Garid belongs to Congress-affiliated National Students Union of India (NSUI), which holds but one seat out of four in the student body.
On the other hand, the President of the student body, which is dominated by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) holding three of the four posts, stood by the posters and justified the content they disseminated.
"NSUI holds just one seat in the DUSU, the rest three are with ABVP. We stand by the posters and still believe that there was nothing wrong with them," DUSU President Amit Tanwar told IANS.
"Although the posters have now been removed, the students have got our message," he said.
Many posters and hoardings were seen occupying the university space on Thursday with denunciatory messages against the communist parties and the left-wing All India Students Association (AISA), the student wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist).
"Rapist AISA, go back!", "Desh 1947 se azaad hai, par vaampanthiyon ki soch wahi" (the country has been independent since 1947, but the leftists have not let go their old thinking), could be read in the messages slapped across walls of the campus.
Garid condemned the tactic as "extremely instigatory" and as "spewing venom" in a letter sent to the Vice-Chancellor of the varsity.
He requested that the posters be removed and a ban slapped on the ABVP in the campus.
"I request you to direct the removal of these posters immediately. I also demand a ban on the ABVP for all the chaos created by them. We have never seen the discourse fall to such a low in the past... It is all with an intention to incite violence which is not acceptable to us," Garid in the letter to the VC.
The ABVP had carried out a march on Thursday to protect the campus from "anti-national" activities.
Imphal, March 3 : The Manipur High Court on Friday sent two leaders of United Naga Council (UNC) in judicial custody and gave last opportunity to six other UNC office-bearers for personal appearance on March 23.
Hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by R.K. Joysana, the court directed state authorities to check stocks of life-saving drugs, fuel and other consumer items in the state.
Those sent in judicial custody are UNC President Gaidon Kamei and Publicity Secretary Stephen Lamkang. Despite court directives, the six UNC leaders have allegedly failed to appear in court.
Besides, the High Court bench of Chief Justice Rakesh Ranjan Prasad, Justice K. Nobin and Justice N. Koteshwor directed the government to make comparison of prices of commodities before and after the imposition of the indefinite economic blockade in Manipur by Naga activists.
The UNC had calledf for Manipur blockade to protest the creation of new districts from November 1 last year.
During the course of the hearing, the court directed state authorities to ensure that at least 100 tankers transport fuel to Manipur from other states four times a week to tide over acute shortage.
It also directed for adequate central paramilitary forces to escort trucks and tankers along the two national highways which are considered the lifeline of the north-eastern state.
New Delhi, March 3 : The Communist Party of India (CPI) on Friday wrote to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh urging the release of seven rights activists and intellectuals jailed in the state for being 'Naxalites.
CPI General Secretary S. Sudhakar Reddy said the seven -- members of the civil society from Telangana -- were on a fact finding mission to Chhattisgarh when they were arrested in Andhra Pradesh in December and subsequently handed over to Chhattisgarh police.
"If they are Naxalites why should they openly announce and go to Chhattisgarh. The allegation is that they met Haribhushan, a Naxalite leader twice in December and were going to meet him again. Why will a Naxalite leader take the risk of meeting some people, who are openly coming to Chhattisgarh," argued Reddy.
"Chhattisgarh police are branding everybody as Naxalites. Journalists, Adivasi leaders, university teachers are being harassed, arrested and concocted cases are filed against them," he said in the letter.
Reddy accused Bastar Inspector General of Police S.R. Kalluri of "branding" everybody as Naxals and "terrorising people". "The seven from Telangana are also victims to such conspiracies."
"Naxalism cannot be treated as a law and order problem. It is a socio-economic problem and needs a political solution. Chhattisgarh is being ruled by the police. Let democratic civil rights be extended to Chhattisgarh also," he added.
The seven arrested are Bala Ravindranath, an advocate and general secretary of Committee for Release of Political Prisoners (CRPP); Chikkudu Prabhaker, also an advocate convener of Telangana Democratic Forum; Durga Prasad, a journalist from Hyderabad; Duddu Prabhakar, President of Andhra Pradesh Caste Annihilation Committee; Rajendra Prasad and Nazeer from Telangana Students Forum and Ramanala Laxmaiyya, Secretary of Adivasi Tudem Dubba.
New Delhi, March 3 : Perhaps signalling a thaw in frosty ties, India has accepted Pakistan's offer of participation in the Indus Commission meeting, with talks scheduled for later this month in Lahore.
Six months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared in Punjab that "blood and water can't flow together" and said that India was to toughen its stand on sharing of the Indus waters, the Indus Commissioners of both sides are poised to sit across the table for the meeting.
The Indian Commissioner of the Permanent Indus Commission has accepted his Pakistani counterpart's invitation for talks on the Indus Waters Treaty scheduled to be held in Pakistan in the second half of March.
The Indus Commission meeting is set to discuss technical issues and should not be construed as part of official talks between the two governments, it was pointed out.
Prime Minister Modi had held a meeting in September to review the treaty in the backdrop of the Pathankot and Uri terror strikes, which India has blamed on the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohamed terror group.
India has said that it plans to increase the utilisation of rivers flowing through Jammu and Kashmir to fully exercise India's rights under the pact.
The Permanent Indus Commission is a bipartisan body entrusted with everyday implementation of the World Bank-brokered Indus Waters Treaty that was signed in 1960.
The Commission, which is mandated to meet at least once every year, alternately in India and Pakistan, comprises Indus Commissioners from both sides and discusses technical matters related to implementation of the Treaty. It has met 112 times since 1960.
It is learnt that mutually convenient dates and mutually agreeable agenda are being worked out directly by the Commissioners themselves and the Indian government has played no role in this regard.
New Delhi sees this as just another regular meeting of the Commission to deal with technical matters concerned with implementation of the Treaty and which does not amount to talks between India and Pakistan.
The Treaty had come close to being jeopardised following the cross-border terror attack on September 18 last year on an army base at Uri in Jammu and Kashmir that claimed the lives of 19 Indian soldiers.
Blaming the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed for the attack, New Delhi said it would consider revisiting the Indus Waters Treaty, which has withstood three wars and is seen as one of the most successful international agreements.
According to the agreement, India has control over three eastern rivers -- Beas, Ravi and Sutlej -- all flowing from Punjab.
Pakistan, as per the treaty, controls the western rivers of the Indus -- Chenab and Jhelum that flow from Jammu and Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir has been demanding a review of the treaty as it robs the state of its rights to use the water of the rivers.
The current processes under the treaty concern the Kishenganga (330 MW) and Ratle (850 MW) hydroelectric power plants being built by India on the Kishenganga and Chenab rivers, respectively, to which Pakistan has raised objections.
In November last year, India had pointed out the legal untenability of the World Bank launching two simultaneous processes for appointment of a neutral expert -- requested by India -- and establishment of a court of arbitration -- requested by Pakistan -- to adjudicate technical differences.
In December, the World Bank announced a pause in the separate processes initiated by India and Pakistan to allow the two countries to consider alternative ways to resolve their disagreements.
"We are announcing this pause to protect the Indus Waters Treaty and to help India and Pakistan consider alternative approaches to resolving conflicting interests under the Treaty and its application to two hydroelectric power plants," World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim had said in a statement.
"This is an opportunity for the two countries to begin to resolve the issue in an amicable manner and in line with the spirit of the Treaty rather than pursuing concurrent processes that could make the treaty unworkable over time."
This year, weeks after discussing the Indus Waters Treaty issue with Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Islamabad, World Bank Chief Executive Officer Kristalina Georgieva met Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley here.
New Delhi, March 3 : The family of a minor allegedly raped by Samajwadi Party leader Gayatri Prajapati, has lodged a complaint alleging threats from the Uttar Pradesh police, Delhi Police said on Friday.
The complaint was filed at the Hauz Khas Police Station on Thursday against senior officers of UP police.
"The victim's family has complained that UP police personnel have been threatening and intimidating them to withdraw the case," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Chinmoy Biswal told IANS.
A team of UP police on Thursday visited AIIMS, where the victim is currently undergoing treatment, to record her statement.
"We have not registered a case as of now. We are examining the allegations made by the victim's family members," Biswal added.
Following the Supreme Court's order, UP police has registered a case of gang rape against Prajapati and seven others. He is currently at large.
New Delhi, March 3 : Fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya has blamed Pratt & Whitney (PW) faulty engines as the reason behind the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines.
Mallya's assertion comes days after India's civil aviation regulator said that it is investigating IndiGo and GoAir's Airbus A320 new engine option (neo) aircraft which are powered by PW engines.
"Not surprised at DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) enquiry into Pratt & Whitney aircraft engines. Kingfisher Airlines sadly collapsed also due to faulty engines," Mallya tweeted.
"We have sued IAE a Pratt & Whitney Group Company for compensation towards defective aircraft engines supplied to Kingfisher Airlines."
On Tuesday, DGCA said that it is investigating IndiGo and GoAir's Airbus A320neo aircraft which are powered by PW engines.
Recently, both the airlines have faced engine problems with their A320neo aircraft which are powered by PW PurePower Geared Turbofan.
That time DGCA said that it has asked the two airlines to carry out one time boroscopic inspection of all the engines which have completed 1,000 hours instead of 1,500 hours and repeat inspection at every 500 hours.
DGCA has further ordered that if boroscopic inspection is unsatisfactory, engine operations should be as per the manufacturer's recommendation.
The boroscopic inspections are used for visual inspection work where the area to be inspected is inaccessible by other means.
PW is a United Technologies Corp. company which designs and manufactures aircraft engines and auxiliary power units.
Both the airlines have 21 A320neo aircraft which are powered by the PW engines, out of which 16 belong to IndiGo, while the rest are with GoAir.
On its part, PW has said that it is supporting GoAir and IndiGo to assess the situation and minimise any disruption.
New Delhi, March 3 : With Pakistan's top Foreign Policy Advisor Sartaj Aziz on Friday ruling out extradition of alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav, the Indian establishment, it is learnt, expected its South Asian neighbour "to follow well-established international practice" in this regard.
"Government has on several occasions completely rejected the baseless allegations against Kulbhushan Jadhav," a source here said.
"Circumstances of his presence in Pakistan remain unclear, particularly because we have not been provided consular access despite our repeated requests," the source said.
"We expect the Government of Pakistan to follow well-established international practice in this regard and ensure his well-being while he is in its custody."
Briefing lawmakers in the Senate, Aziz, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Adviser on Foreign Affairs, rejected reports that Jadhav will be released at some stage, saying a case was being prepared to prosecute Jadhav, who was arrested from Balochistan in March last year.
"It has never been said that there was any lack of evidence against Jadhav," Aziz said.
In March last year, Pakistan arrested Jadhav who had inadvertently crossed over from Iran and charged him with spying. India said that Jadhav is a former Indian Navy officer and has denied consular access to Jadhav despite repeated requests.
Jadhav in a video had "confessed" that he was working for India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) to create instability in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan and Karachi, which India has denied.
"We have prepared an FIR and a case is in the process of registration to prosecute the Indian state actor for involvement in subversive and terrorist activities in Pakistan," Aziz told the Senate in response to a query during question hour, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan.
He also said that a dossier has been shared with United Nations Secretary General on "Indian involvement" in the internal affairs of Pakistan.
Claiming that Pakistan's viewpoint on the issue of Indian involvement was being accepted internationally, he said the government also sent a list of questions to New Delhi on the matter.
Berlin, March 4 : German Chancellor Angela Merkel will meet US President Donald Trump on March 14, the German government confirmed on Friday.
When asked about media reports of the Merkel-Trump meeting, German government spokesman Steffen Seibert said "we do not deny it", adding more details will be given at "appropriate time".
The White House on Friday also confirmed the visit. It will be Merkel's first trip to the US after Trump took office, Xinhua news agency reported.
Trump, during his election campaign, had publicly criticised Merkel and Germany's refugee policy as a "catastrophic failure" and "chaos".
The critics indicated a bumpy start for the ties between Berlin and Washington.
Last month, Merkel hosted the visit of US Vice President Mike Pence at Munich Security Conference, in the southeast German city.
Merkel then said world conflicts require "joint efforts", which was seen as a gentle reminder to Trump's unilateralism and anti-globalisation policies.
Trump is expected to visit Germany on July 7 and 8, attending the two-day the Group Twenty (G20) summit in Hamburg.
You never know who you'll come face to face with on a Galapagos tour. ...the Legend is small enough to offer an unspoiled, personalised cruise, yet large enough to keep costs down for travellers who might otherwise dismiss a Galapagos tour as too expensive.
Charles Darwin famously said It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change. The Galapagos Islands may feel like a permanent fixture on the travel bucket list, but the way travellers visit them is constantly changing.
The team behind the M/V Galapagos Legend is well aware of this, completely refurbishing their vessel for new departures in 2017. With cabins reconfigured for optimal comfort and space, plus social areas that make the most of the beautiful surroundings of the Galapagos, the vessel has reached a new point in its evolution. With a capacity of 90 passengers, the Legend is small enough to offer an unspoiled, personalised cruise, yet large enough to keep costs down for travellers who might otherwise dismiss a Galapagos tour as too expensive.
Until April 30, Goway is offering budget-conscious globetrotters a saving of up to $1289 on selected Galapagos cruise departures in 2017 and 2018. Specifically, passengers booking a cruise aboard the Legend for 2017 will save 10% on a Junior or Balcony Suite, while passengers aboard the Coral I or Coral II will save 5% on any cabin class. Those booking travel in 2018 will pay 2017 prices, and receive a further 5% discount on Junior and Balcony Suites aboard the Legend, or any cabin aboard the Coral I or Coral II.
Alternatively, Globetrotters booking selected 2017 Galapagos cruises by March 15 can enjoy complimentary return airfare from Quito or Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands, saving up to $500 US or $675 CA per person. This offer cannot be combined with discounted cruise bookings aboard the Legend, Coral I, or Coral II.
Since 1970, Goway has been providing unforgettable travel experiences to Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Central & South America, Idyllic Island destinations and Europe. Today Goway is recognized as one of North America's leading travel companies for individuals, families and groups to select exotic destinations around the globe. Goway has offices in Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles and Sydney Australia.
For reservations and information, visit http://www.goway.com, or call 1-800-387-8850.
We can never thank you enough for dreams coming true for our kids!
Members from the HomeFirst team and their partners came together to help raise funds for Make-A-Wish Michigan, a statewide nonprofit that grants the wishes of Michigan children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.
HomeFirst thanks all of our team members and partners for making dreams come true with your generous donations!
In 2016, our donations helped two children with life-threatening medical conditions fight against their illnesses and empowered them to feel stronger emotionally and physically. We are happy to introduce you to Wyatt and Daniel.
Wyatt, 4 from Wyoming, had his wish to go to Disney World come true in December. Wyatt, along with his two little sisters and parents, enjoyed the sights and sounds of Disney World. Wyatts mom, Ashlea Russ, sent the following message to Wyatts wish coordinator, Erica. We can never thank you enough for our experience! We can never thank you enough for dreams coming true for our kids! I know you guys like to get pictures and we would love to get them to you or meet with you and show you our album when it comes in, but until then here is a little blip of our amazing trip!
Daniel Danny, 3 from Madison Heights, wished to go to Disney with his parents and two brothers last month. Danny's mother, Rachel Goodman, had nothing but wonderful things to say about their trip. She shared that they had never seen anything so pure and good, and the staff and volunteers at Give Kids the World were absolutely wonderful, as well as everyone at Disney. Danny enjoyed every moment, especially Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party, and cried when they had to leave. Rachel shared that she wishes they lived closer so she could volunteer at Give Kids the World every day.
HomeFirst teamed up with Make-A-Wish Michigan in January of 2014. Our hope is, by continuously raising funds, to grant at least one wish each year! Visit your community office to find out how you can get involved.
HomeFirst Communities are a collection of manufactured home communities in Michigan, providing a pleasurable and affordable lifestyle for individuals, families, and retirees alike. HomeFirst sets the bar for affordable luxury living in Michigan. To learn more about the benefits of living in a HomeFirst manufactured home and community, visit http://homefirstcertified.com/.
Since 1984, Make-A-Wish Michigan has granted more than 8,500 wishes to Michigan kids. This year, the organization hopes to grant 440 wishes. Wish experiences can be pivotal points in the course of a childs treatment, helping them feel better and providing an emotional boost.
OverSite Construction Consulting Group announced today that they are open for business, now assisting clients who are renovating their homes in Philadelphia, Delaware and Montgomery counties, the Main Line and the New Jersey beach community. The firm is offering a different type of construction services than the industry is used to construction project managers who can assist homeowners with the stressful and frustrating task of remodeling their homes. Typically, home construction contractors offer clients an in-house project manager within the scope of their engagement, but these project managers are incented to make money for their firm and subcontractors. When a homeowner hires an OverSite project manager, they get the benefit of a third party construction specialist who is incentivized to save money and time for the homeowner, as well as choose the best quality renovation materials at the best price.
The OverSite consulting team is led by Joseph P. McPoyle, a construction and real estate serial entrepreneur who has been working in the building industry for the past 20 years. In the 1990s, Joe was a Quality Control Engineer at Williams Power Corporation in North Carolina and Tennessee. He then headed to New England, where he was a Chief Estimator at ML McDonald Companies. Joe launched his first construction venture in 2001, when he started The Perfect Painters, a high-end commercial and residential housepainting firm. The Perfect Painters led him to expand with Perfect Places Construction, a full-service residential building & contracting company in 2005. A few years after that, Joe started Perfect Places PA, a student housing rental real estate holding company near Widener University. In 2013, Joe launched Rolling Road Realty, a professional full service real estate renovation firm, and his team "flipped" multiple properties in Delaware County and at the New Jersey beach in the past 4 years.
Joe and his OverSite consulting team have over 2 decades of commercial and residential construction experience and they know how to keep projects on timeline and on budget. Our goal with this new OverSite venture is to save our clients time & money and avoid the frustration that often comes along with renovation and construction projects. We are dedicated to the highest level of renovation craftsmanship and our network of partners share our same values. McPoyle said. OverSite consultants can work with the construction vendors that their clients select, and they can also recommend partners from their network, who have been through a robust selection process and have past positive experience working with OverSite consultants.
In addition to assisting clients in their own home renovation projects, OverSite also offers project management services to those who are looking to buy or sell real estate properties or rental properties.
Everyone thinks they can flip a property. Shows that are on HGTV make flipping a property seem glamorous, but our consultants know that this is never the case. McPoyle comments. There are literally thousands of decisions that need to be made from financing to permits to vendor selection to marketing the property to the right audience once the renovations are complete. OverSite consultants help their clients get the most money out of their investment properties, whether they want to acquire, renovate and re-sell or rent.
OverSite consultants work on a flat fee system and guarantee that their projects will come in on time and on or under budget.
For more information, visit the website at http://www.OverSiteGroup.com or call 610.721.9998.
Contact:
Joseph McPoyle, President
OverSite Construction Consulting Group LLC
Phone: 610.721.9998
Email: Joe(at)OverSiteGroup(dot)com
Website: http://www.OverSiteGroup.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oversitegroup
About OverSite Construction Consulting Group LLC
OverSite offers commercial and residential construction consulting and project management services, as well as architectural design and engineering services. Consultants are available to advise on many aspects of the construction projects including project planning, permit processes, vendor selection, budgeting and estimating. Once the project is underway, consultants will manage the budget and timeline for clients, solving problems and managing schedules. Consultants are also up to date on employing green building techniques, systems and materials.
OverSites interior designers utilize the latest technology, which enables clients to view a digital rendering of the home's new interior design before projects get underway. These high-tech service offerings enable clients to not only perfect their design, but ensure that the job will be completed properly the first time around, avoiding costly mistakes during the renovation project.
In addition to OverSite consultants, the firm has access to a network of construction experts who are qualified and experienced in commercial interior and exterior remodeling projects and custom residential renovation work.
TitleSmart is celebrating 10 years of providing exceptional closing experiences "The relocation of our corporate headquarters allows us to accelerate our growth and continue our relentless pursuit to add value for our customers.
TitleSmart, Inc., a leading Twin Cities title insurance company, has today relocated its corporate headquarters from Maplewood, MN, to a new, larger, and newly renovated office space in White Bear Lake, MN. The move allows TitleSmart to continue its growth while adding features for an enhanced staff and customer experience. The companys new address is 4810 White Bear Parkway, #100, White Bear Lake, Minnesota, 55110.
Since its launch in 2007, TitleSmart has expanded its staff from three to more than 62 staff members in six locations across the Metro. TitleSmart was named one of the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies in America in 2014, 2015, and 2016 and achieved the highest volume of closings in its history in 2016.
For the past 10 years, we have worked to elevate the level of customer service in the title industry, said Cindy Koebele, President of TitleSmart. We are extremely grateful for our staff, customers, and creative vendor partners who have embraced and supported us in our mission to transform real estate transactions into outstanding customer experiences. The relocation of our corporate headquarters allows us to accelerate our growth and continue our relentless pursuit to add value for our customers.
TitleSmarts new, 9,076 square foot space features a larger lobby and redesigned conference rooms, as well as more workspace, a new break room, and a wellness center for employees. The company is celebrating its 10th anniversary and new location with an open house on Thursday, May 4th; from 4:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m., with a ribbon cutting at 4:30 p.m. Visit http://title-smart.com/events for more information.
About TitleSmart, Inc.
TitleSmart, Inc. is a full-service title insurance company dedicated to providing clients with exceptional title, escrow, and real estate closing solutions. For the past 10 years, TitleSmart has led the way in transforming Twin Cities real estate closings into outstanding customer experiences. A certified Womens Business Enterprise, TitleSmart was named one of the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies in America in 2014, 2015, and 2016. For more information visit http://title-smart.com.
Walton has always been a strong supporter of Jackson County organizations, especially those relating to community and children, leading by example and giving back.
Eric Ric B. Walton with The Walton Insurance Group in Jackson, MI has been named the 2017 Forsetlund Agent of the Year by the Michigan Association of Insurance Agents. The Award recognizes a member who has contributed the most to his or her agency and community. Ric Walton entered the agency business when he was introduced to his fathers agency at a young age and the value of protecting and serving the people was instilled in him. He has earned the CIC designation and served as President of the Association in 1991-1992.
Walton has always been a strong supporter of Jackson County organizations, especially those relating to community and children, leading by example and giving back.
Walton received the award at the Associations recent state convention in Grand Rapids. The Michigan Association of Insurance Agents is a statewide trade group that represents approximately 7,000 independent agents and industry employees.
The Chicago Healthcare Executives Forum (CHEF) honored New Roseland Community Hospital (RCH) President & CEO Tim Egan with the 2016 American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Regents Healthcare Leadership Award on Tuesday, February 28, 2017. The award was presented during the ACHE/CHEF Annual Meeting at the Hyatt Regency in Chicago.
ACHE provides two Regents Awards each Convocation year for senior-level executives who are members of ACHE; demonstrate innovative and creative management; participate in civic/community activities and projects; have the executive capability to develop his or her organization and promote its growth and stature in the community; and participate in local, state, or provincial hospital and health association activities.
All of these require leadership ability which Egan has proven through his track record during his tenure at the New RCH. Since Egan joined the South Side Safety Net Hospital he has implemented a complete Electronic Health Records conversion, brought in new medical equipment, stabilized finances, increased employment and instilled a new pride in its stakeholders.
Tim Egan has been instrumental in the turnaround of Roseland Community Hospital, which has been vital to meeting the healthcare needs of Chicagos far South Side neighborhoods, says A.J. Wilhelmi, President and CEO of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association. Tims leadership, dedication and work ethic, along with the many initiatives he has implemented at Roseland, have earned him the respect not only of his community, but also of his peers across the city and the state.
Egans work ethic is highly praised and he is known in the Greater Roseland community for leading the hospitals Annual Back to School Health Fair, Annual Operation Warm: Kids Coat Giveaway, giving out turkeys to hundreds of families for Thanksgiving, and the Holiday Toy Giveaway. Through his dedication and hard work Egan has earned the respect of his peers, patients and providers.
In addition to Egans leadership role at the New RCH he also serves as a Commissioner on the Roseland Medical District appointed by Governor Bruce Rauner, has been appointed to the State of Illinois Mobile Health Integration Task Force by Illinois State Representative Jim Durkin, and just completed a three year term as the Chairman of the State of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Advisory Council appointed by former Governor Pat Quinn.
Egan is a lifelong Chicagoan and the single father of four sons who attend Chicago Public Schools; Wedge (13), Tadgh (12), Chance (6), and Cormac (6).
GetResponse at Internet World E-Commerce Fair in Munich, March 7-8. The company invites attendees and customers to visit booth G371 (Hall 5)
GetResponse, the provider of the popular online marketing platform, will be exhibiting at the Internet World E-Commerce Fair in Munich. The event will take place March 7-8 at the Messe Munchen.
The company invites attendees and customers to visit booth G371 (Hall 5) to meet key members of the GetResponse team and learn more about the company. Its a unique opportunity to talk to experts and get tips on how to improve online marketing efforts.
Weve devoted great resources to enhance our e-commerce capabilities over the last year, said GetResponse founder and CEO Simon Grabowski. Now online merchants can instantly integrate their online marketing and sales to drive leads and engagement, and retain customers.
ABOUT INTERNET WORLD
The e-commerce trade show is geared towards online professionals and decision-makers, both providers and users. Last years event attracted more than 14,000 attendees from all over the world. The two-day event offers a wide variety of speakers, programs, and presentations on subjects critical to the growing e-commerce industry. For more information and tickets, visit the Internet World website.
ABOUT THE GETRESPONSE PLATFORM
The GetResponse online marketing platform includes a suite of online tools designed to fulfill the needs of todays innovative marketers:
Built-in tools for creating designer-quality email campaigns, landing pages, and subscription forms that look great on any device, including mobile.
State-of-the-art webinar platform integrated with subscriber data to add the power of face-to-face communication to marketing campaigns.
Marketing automation engine for creating workflows to track and address cart abandonment, website visitors, purchases, and more.
Customized technologies, sub-level multi-user access, and priority support for enterprise organizations and high-volume marketing operations.
Our platform helps e-commerce companies get started with online marketing, enables to scale the business, and helps to integrate marketing processes, said Simon Grabowski. Drop by to meet us in Munich and find out how GetResponse can streamline your marketing.
Today, 350,000 customers in 182 countries trust GetResponse. With nearly 20 years of experience, we continue to deliver excellent online marketing solutions, available in 22 different languages. Our company operates globally with offices in Poland, Canada, Malaysia, India, and Russia, and over 300 passionate professionals on board. Together we create inspiring technologies that empower entrepreneurs and help their businesses grow.
Ashish Raivadera
Major, Lindsey & Africa (MLA), the worlds leading legal search firm, today announced that Ashish (Ash) Raivadera has joined the firms Partner Practice Group as Head of Private Practice for South Asia, and will lead operations at the newly opened Major, Lindsey & Africa (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
Ash possesses a strong knowledge of the Singapore legal market after recruiting there for 18 years and having witnessed dynamic changes over that time, said Brent Harris, Executive Director, International Operations at Major, Lindsey & Africa. He has developed an excellent reputation amongst clients and candidates from international law firms, banks, and corporations in various industry sectors in Southeast Asia, and we are delighted that he now brings that enhanced level of experience and insight to MLAs legal recruiting efforts in the region.
In recent years, while working at ATR Associates Pte. Ltd., Ash has focused on partner and counsel placements with international law firms in Singapore and Southeast Asia, providing strategic advice and detailed market analysis to global, regional and local law firm heads. As the region has grown, Ash has also become involved in helping firms to find solutions for their Singapore or Indonesian offices. Most recently, he has assisted a number of major US and UK firms open their offices in Singapore.
Ash joins Major, Lindsey & Africas existing APAC Partner Practice team of Carl Hopkins (Hong Kong), Tom Stretton and Michael Robertson (Sydney), Laurie Lebrun (Tokyo), and Andrew Ng (Beijing) who also act for law firm partners.
Major, Lindsey & Africa (Singapore) Pte. Ltd (Company No. 200619024N, License No. 16S8347) is located at One Finlayson Green, #06-02, Singapore 049246. Ashish Raivadera can be contacted by email: araivadera@mlaglobal.com or tel: +65.9029.5141.
About Major, Lindsey & Africa
Founded in 1982, Major, Lindsey & Africa is largest and most experienced legal search firm in the world. With more than 25 offices worldwide, Major, Lindsey & Africa has earned recognition for its track record of successful general counsel, corporate counsel, partner, associate and law firm management placements. The firm also provides law firms and companies with highly specialized legal professionals on project, interim and temporary-to-permanent hire basis. Combining local market knowledge and a global recruiting network, Major, Lindsey & Africa recruiters are dedicated to understanding and meeting client and candidate needs while maintaining the highest degree of professionalism and confidentiality. The firm considers every search a diversity search and has been committed to diversity in the law since its inception. Major, Lindsey & Africa is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in talent solutions. http://www.mlaglobal.com.
Featured Seminar Speakers Audits are becoming more common in addiction treatment and professionals need to be prepared when a Special Investigations Unit (SIU) walks in the door. Past News Releases RSS American Addiction Treatment...
The American Addiction Treatment Association (AATA) is hosting a lunch and learn for professionals in the addiction treatment industry entitled: Special Investigations Unit (SIU) What to Know in a Commercial Payer Audit.
The word audit can raise an alarm in any business, but in addiction treatment, insurance companies and state and federal governments are increasingly scrutinizing the industry for fraudulent and abusive practices.
Audits are becoming more common in addiction treatment and professionals need to be prepared when a Special Investigations Unit (SIU) walks in the door. The consequences of noncompliance are significant, from insurance companies refusing to reimburse for services to civil litigation leading to money damages and penalties, to criminal investigations and potential jail time. Even if you have done nothing wrong, an audit or investigation can be costly and time consuming, said Zachary Rothenberg, Partner at Nelson Hardiman and featured seminar speaker. Many of these investigations fall under the terms of state and federal false claims statutes, which generally prohibit the preparation and/or submission of false claims for payment to private insurers or to state and federal programs such as Medicaid and Medicare. These statutes impose serious penalties, including triple damages, on violators, and give whistleblowers a financial incentive to report fraud because they are entitled to a portion of any recovery.
Addiction treatment facilities need to be extremely careful about their billing practices.
The most important thing for anyone in a role like this is to always ensure that everything about the services you are billing is a 100% accurate representation of the services that are being provided, and that you stay up-to-date with all payer changes and requirements, said Frank Brady, Director of West Coast Operations for Infinity Behavioral Health Services and featured seminar speaker. It should be assumed that every single patient's chart will be reviewed at some point. It is important that each patient's chart tells the story of their treatment without any questions left unanswered. This means more than matching CPT codes with a treatment plan. This means that providers understand what procedure codes represent and that they understand what payers expect at different levels of care. Unfortunately, behavioral healthcare is a very young industry and simply asking colleagues for advice is not sufficient. I would encourage anyone in such a role to educate themselves, or involve a knowledgeable industry professional who can do so. If you are billing appropriately for the services you are providing, you are more likely to endure long-term success than a provider looking for the right combination of procedure codes to get paid as much as possible.
Compliance with current regulations is critical. There are different layers of compliance that providers should be concerned with when it comes to financial arrangements. To ensure compliance with the law and also to meet the expectations of commercial health insurers, it is important to implement sound policies and procedures which govern the financial arrangements made between providers and patients, Brady added. Failure to formalize these processes with diligence may result in conflict with payers if patients are not required to pay their portion; or even worse, conflict with the law if a provider is engaged in illegal forms of patient inducement.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) What to Know in a Commercial Payer Audit Seminar, which features speakers Zachary Rothenberg, Frank Brady, and Max Sirianni, will be held in Los Angeles at the Nelson Hardiman Conference Facilities on April 13th, 2017 from 11:00 AM 1:30 PM. Lunch is included as well as time for Q&A with the presenters. Seats are limited.
This seminar is part of an ongoing educational series offered by AATA, which offers regulatory compliance resources for eight states: California, Arizona, Texas, Florida, New York, Illinois, Tennessee, and Georgia. AATA plans to make content available to its addiction treatment industry membership for all 50 states over the next 12 18 months.
AATA Membership provides a variety of benefits and is available to recovery industry professionals, owners, and operators to navigate the evolving clinical and regulatory landscapes. For more information, visit http://www.addiction-tx.com, email, or call (888) 958-2282.
In the course of my lifetime, there has been various crazes that have come and gone. Disco, being one. You know, the disco craze was very big for maybe five years or so, and then it died off just as fast as it came. I think it died off in Decatur about two years after it disappeared elsewhere on the planet. But it probably arrived here two years late, so its a break-even.
I have reached back even before disco to seize upon the Tiki craze. I love everything that is Tiki. This is a piece of Americana. Back in the Sixties, it was a place for the busy American businessman (or woman) to relax before heading back to the trailer.
Many of you will recall Trader Vics. That was a Polynesian themed restaurant known for its fancy Polynesian drinks. The Mai Tai may have even been invented there. A couple of years ago, I was in Atlanta staying at a large downtown hotel. I discovered there was a Trader Vics in the hotel. You bet I was there. Only three of them left in the USA now. And it was great.
There is nothing quite like coming upon a place that gives you the feeling of stumbling upon a little cafe on the edge of the jungle. Sorry, the Rainforest Cafe doesnt cut it. Youre not going to run into Humphrey Bogart there (or anywhere other than his cemetery at this point).
I like a place that has soft lighting, soft Polynesian music, fancy drinks, South Pacific food, and the grass hut theme. Its not the place to discuss a merger of pharmaceutical companies. But you can feel quite comfortable wearing your Tommy Bahama flowered shirt and your well worn jeans. Wear your shades if you must, but dont expect to read the menu.
Be careful though. Danger lurks. The people in the next booth might be head hunters. And I dont mean the kind who are looking to fill jobs. I mean the kind that look to fill their boiling cauldron. Scary! And they are talking about getting here in their island canoe, no less.
I guess that Tiki appeals to me in part because of Dad and Moms love for Hawaii. They were in heaven when they traveled there. Dad would get tanned in a day or two and then with his sizable belly and his short stature, he was a walking Buddah. I wonder if he got the locals discount. Should have.
So, Im starting a Tiki collection. Not your ordinary tribal art that you find at flea markets. Im thinking the stuff that you have to really dig hard to find. You know, Im talking about eBay stuff. Rare items. Not as rare as grass clippings from the moon, but rare.
I wonder if the American Indians copied the Polynesians on the totem pole thing, or if it was the other way around. Somebody came up with the brilliant idea of carving out a telephone pole, even before telephones. Talk about the cart before the horse! This would be a fine lawn ornament. Neighbors and evil spirits beware!
I have already found some interesting Tiki pieces to hang on the wall. Wooden masks. Faces are either smiling or angry, there is no middle ground. Kind of like my math teacher at Woodrow Wilson Junior High.
Be on the lookout for me please. Theres got to be some museum quality Tiki pieces floating around Decatur. Dont call the Smithsonian. Call me. In fact, my son has already agreed to serve as the curator over my collection. For a raise in his allowance, of course.
Scott K. Brown
Attorney Scott K. Brown of Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie LLP is a featured speaker at the 2017 AgFirst Farm Credit Banks 2017 Compliance Conference being held in Nashville on March 13-15.
A partner in the firms transactional and litigation practice groups, Brown is presenting Year In Review and Lessons Learned: Bankruptcy and Litigation Updates. As an attorney representing agricultural lenders in business transactions and solvency matters, Browns expertise includes loan origination and documentation, regulatory compliance, litigation in state and federal court, receiverships and bankruptcies.
We will discuss recent cases and trends in bankruptcy and work-outs, said Brown. We will also discuss new and important litigation across the country affecting agricultural lending.
With experience as in-house and outside counsel and a contributor to many legal publications, Brown also shares insights on working with commercial, agricultural and private lenders and other businesses in a broad array of transactions and litigation.
The 2017 AgFirst Farm Credit Banks Compliance Conference is at the Nashville Loews Vanderbilt Hotel.
About Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie LLP
Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie LLP is an Am Law 200 commercial law firm for handling complex matters in litigation, intellectual property, business transactions, gaming, government relations and other practice areas. Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie offices are located in Albuquerque, Colorado Springs, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Irvine, Phoenix, Reno, Silicon Valley and Tucson. For more information, visit lrrc.com.
All New Aluminum Service Body Bed by CM Truck Beds CM Truck Beds has thrived over the last 20 years by offering unparalleled capacity, versatility and durability at a great value.
CM Truck Beds built a national reputation of excellence serving a broad array of demanding industries with our Flat Bed products, said Joe Lewis, Vice President of CM Truck Beds. The introduction of the Service Body product will help extend our relationship with existing customers whove been asking for the additional capabilities offered by these designs while also opening up new markets where we can introduce the features, durability, service, and value that have made CM Truck Beds a recognized leader in truck body solutions.
The Service Bodies, available in steel or aluminum, will further CMs reputation for integrating top quality components and clever accommodations for the working men and women who will rely on them. Key features include an immersive powder-coated finish on every component for long-lasting wear and an enduring finish, premium gas shocks supporting reinforced cabinet doors for maximum strength, stainless steel hardware for security, and bolted, modular construction for configurability and serviceability in the years ahead. Not only is CM offering modular fast moving service bodies, but their customization is on par with the standards in the industry.
Aluminum and steel models each are covered by a four year/48,000 warranty, among the most generous in the industry. The bodies are also each covered by a pro-rated rust guarantee (10 years for aluminum bodies, 6 years for steel bodies). CM Truck Beds exceptional building practices, like integrated conduit for all wiring to maintain integrity in harsh environments, enables the company to exceptional warranties at highly competitive pricing.
CM Truck Beds commitment to low lead times with heavy inventory will certainly make for a great choice for fleet and commercial customers when looking to service body solutions. With the best lead times in the industry, CM can certainly meet the demands of the market without lengthy lead times.
CM Truck Beds has thrived over the last 20 years by offering unparalleled capacity, versatility and durability at a great value. These same attributes are what makes our Service Body lineup so promising, said Lewis. Were really excited not only about this new product, but by what the Service Body lineup will enable our customers to accomplish.
CM Truck Beds will debut the new Service Body lineup at the NTEA Truck Show, March 15-18, 2017, in Indianapolis, IN.
CM Truck Beds has been a North American leader in truck bed manufacturing for over 20 years. CM Truck Beds are built in the heart of the USA in a 150,000 square foot facility located in Kingston, Oklahoma. CM Truck Beds produce over 25,000 truck beds annually and have distributors located from coast to coast. The product line-up by CM Truck Beds is a versatile blend of both steel and aluminum beds designed for multiple hauling and service work applications. CM Truck Beds rugged truck bed configurations are engineered and available for use in just about every working industry. For more information, and to see full line-up of CM Truck Beds visit http://cmtruckbeds.com
The addition of OPSWAT to Cybereasons intelligence base and platform gives security teams the best possible chance to detect and understand the context of attacks, so they can respond quickly and effectively.
OPSWAT, Inc., provider of solutions to secure and manage IT infrastructure, today announced that it has signed an OEM agreement with Cybereason, developers of the most effective Total Endpoint Protection Platform, including EDR & Next-Gen AV. Cybereason will add OPSWATs Metadefender Cloud (Commercial Edition) to the Cybereasons intelligence base, which analyzes submitted files for threats, increasing the malware detection rate.
Metadefender Cloud leverages signature and heuristic scanning from multiple anti-malware engines. Integrating Metadefender Cloud's industry-leading threat intelligence with the easy-to-use Cybereason Platform results in highly accurate malware detection, enhancing endpoint prevention.
Additionally, Metadefender Cloud provides detailed reports to users about which engines detected which threats. Anti-malware engines that participate in the commercial version of Metadefender Cloud receive royalties based on customer usage, as part of the OEM agreements between OPSWAT and the commercial engine partners. OPSWAT also offers a free demo version of Metadefender Cloud for limited, non-commercial usage.
Metadefender Cloud, an application and threat intelligence platform, uses next-generation Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) engines, OPSWAT's Vulnerability Engine (patent pending), and multi-scanning technologies to analyze all submitted files for threats and potential risks. In addition to analyzing files, Metadefender Cloud can perform analysis on a hash, checking for threats, known vulnerabilities, and application reputation information.
Cybereason believes the key to stopping adversaries is behavioral analysis that enables early detection and response. Detection is the driving force enabling all other security activities to take place, including execution prevention, blocking, investigation, forensics and response.
Cybereason excels at detection because the solution is focused on collecting and analyzing behavioral data. Its the best source of primary data for understanding what is really happening within the enterprise. Cybereason also has a core competence in effective, centralized analysis at scale. Instead of individual machines defending themselves with a fraction of their capacity, Cybereason enables enterprises to use the entire endpoint ecosystem as a defense mechanism with all endpoints working together to protect the organization.
Benny Czarny, CEO and Founder of OPSWAT, said, "We are very excited to partner with Cybereason, a leader in the EDR space. We've invested a lot into building our Metadefender Cloud threat intelligence platform. We released the commercial version of Metadefender Cloud in fall 2016, and the fact that we're already able to partner with companies like Cybereason is very gratifying because it means that the market leaders are already recognizing our product's quality."
Sam Curry, Cybereasons Chief Product Officer, said Security teams need to be able to maximize their ability to detect threats and to understand the potential impact to their organizations. The addition of OPSWAT to Cybereasons intelligence base and platform gives security teams the best possible chance to detect and understand the context of attacks, so they can respond quickly and effectively.
About Cybereason
Cybereason is the leader in endpoint protection, offering endpoint detection and response, next-generation antivirus, and managed monitoring services. Founded by elite intelligence professionals born and bred in offense-first hunting, Cybereason gives enterprises the upper hand over cyber adversaries. The Cybereason platform is powered by a custom-built in-memory graph, the only truly automated hunting engine anywhere. It detects behavioral patterns across every endpoint and surfaces malicious operations in an exceptionally user-friendly interface. Cybereason is privately held and headquartered in Boston with offices in London, Tel Aviv, and Tokyo.
About OPSWAT
OPSWAT is a San Francisco-based cybersecurity software company that provides solutions to secure and manage IT infrastructure. Founded in 2002, OPSWAT has delivered solutions and technologies that protect organizations from threats and secure digital data for over a decade. OPSWAT's Metadefender platform is used by thousands of customers in defense, government, finance, critical infrastructure, and other industries, and its OESIS Framework endpoint security SDK has helped secure over 200 million endpoints. To learn more about OPSWAT, visit OPSWAT.com.
The Brookings Report rankings prove Tampa continues to rise as a major economic driver within the state of Florida.
The Tampa Bay area was recently ranked in the top 20 U.S. metros by the Brookings Metropolitan Policy Program. The program tracked the economic performance of the nations 100 largest metropolitan areas along the three dimensions of growth, prosperity, and inclusion, and published their findings in their 2017 Metro Monitor.
Tampa ranks 18th in the nation for growth from 2010-2015 based on gross metropolitan product, number of jobs, and number of jobs at young firms, and 17th for inclusion, which measures changes in employment and how income is distributed among individuals.
The Brookings Report rankings prove Tampa continues to rise as a major economic driver within the state of Florida, said Craig J. Richard, CEcD, President and CEO of the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation. Weve worked hard to secure major company investments and create high-wage, high-skilled jobs for the area, and were thrilled that Tampa continues to be recognized for these efforts.
In December, Milken Institutes annual Best-Performing Cities analysis of the largest 200 U.S. metro areas reported that the Greater Tampa Bay area rose from No. 86 in 2014 to No. 33 in 2016. In addition, KPMG has ranked Tampa in the top five among U.S. cities for a favorable tax structure that offers the lowest cost of doing business.
Tampas economy includes a thriving financial and professional services sector that has seen investments from Bristol-Myers Squibb, USAA, the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation, and Citi, adding thousands of new jobs in the last three years. The city also has the highest job demand for STEM-related occupations in the state of Florida, and a healthy startup community that is drawing more entrepreneurs, investors, and young talent than ever before.
Attracting a talented young workforce and fostering entrepreneurship have been top priorities for Tampa with the THEDC conducting research, called the Millennial Matter Project, to delve into the mindset of millennial corporate decision makers across numerous markets. Tampas research indicated that Millennial decision makers are looking for a vibrant urban environment with easy commutes, strong quality of life, and low income taxes: all key attributes of the Tampa Bay area.
Companies continue to invest and grow in Tampa due to the exceptional talent found in the area, whether within STEM-related fields, financial services or the growing startup community, said Richard. That, combined with the stellar quality of life in the area, is making Tampa the top place do business in the U.S.
Link to Metro Monitor 2017 here.
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About Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation
The Tampa Hillsborough EDC works to develop and sustain a thriving local economy through the attraction, retention, and expansion of high-wage jobs and capital investment in Hillsborough County and the cities of Tampa, Plant City, and Temple Terrace. We focus on growing locally established companies as well as recruiting corporate operations in targeted industry sectors including Information Technology, Financial and Professional Services, Life Sciences, Defense and Security, Manufacturing, and Distribution and Logistics. The Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation exists because of the generous support of over 120 investors from the local community. For more information, visit tampaedc.com.
Every order Signifyd approves for its merchants is protected by a 100% financial guarantee against fraud and chargebacks.
Signifyd is honored to be selected as the Fraud Innovation Firm of the Year 2017 by Finance Monthly. Signifyd joins numerous reputed companies in this years Fintech Awards list including Barclays Africa, Finova and Manulife. Winners were selected from around the world with Signifyd winning in the USA for the Fraud Innovation category.
The Fintech Awards acknowledge and reward the individuals, firms, start-ups and banks who are recognized as leaders and thought leaders in their area of expertise. Award nominations are open to those that devise and design new financial technology, those that implement systems, and those who adopt new systems and technology which in turn enhances customer experience. The Finance Monthly Fintech Awards recognizes the true innovators who help drive the Fintech sector forward and help make the sector what it is today.
Signifyd is the largest provider of Guaranteed Fraud Protection with over 5,000 merchants across the world. Every order Signifyd approves for its merchants is protected by a 100% financial guarantee against fraud and chargebacks. Leveraging real-time machine learning Signifyd eliminates manual order review for ecommerce merchants, allowing them to ship orders faster and without delays.
Read the full article here.
View the Finance Monthly 2017 Fintech Awards announcement here.
Dr. Brad Bengtson has been voted Best Plastic Surgeon eight years in a row by Grand Rapids Magazine readers. This is an honor that only grows with each year my patients and their friends and family nominate me. I am humbled and grateful for the recognition and can show my thanks by continuing to innovate and improve.
At the start of each year, Grand Rapids Magazine publishes an issue featuring reader favorites in a variety of categories, from bakeries to TV personalities, yoga studios to tourist attractions. Also at the start of each year, the leader of the Bengtson Center sees his name on that list of winners in Grand Rapids: Plastic Surgeon; The Best: Bradley P. Bengtson, M.D.
Thats happened for the last eight years, anyway, as locals have repeatedly voted to give Dr. Bengtson the honor. Grand Rapids Magazine invites its readers to cast their ballots annually, asking them to provide names of local people, businesses, and organizations worthy of being recognized as the best. The winners, including Best Plastic Surgeon, are revealed in one of the years earliest issues. The most recent edition was published in January 2017.
This is an honor that only grows with each year my patients and their friends and family nominate me, plastic surgeon Dr. Brad Bengtson said. I am humbled and grateful for the recognition, and I can show my thanks by continuing to innovate and improve.
Dr. Bengtson is frequently recognized by his peers and his patients as a top plastic surgeon in the Grand Rapids area, the state of Michigan, and the country. He received several awards in 2016, and gained the distinction as the first surgeon in the Midwest to use the Natrelle INSPIRA Cohesive breast implants for a patient. He also has spent more than a decade on the Best Doctors in America list.
Dr. Bengtson offers a range of cosmetic surgical options at the Bengtson Center, as well as nonsurgical treatments intended to give patients a choice for when it comes to getting the look they want. An internationally recognized breast expert, the plastic surgeon performs breast augmentation with his 24-hour Fast Trak recovery, as well as lifts, reductions, revisions, and reconstruction. He also handles liposuction, tummy tucks, and other body contouring surgeries; facelifts, rhinoplasties, and more procedures for the face; and a variety of womens health services. Members of the Bengtson Center team provide nonsurgical fat-reduction, skin smoothing and tightening, and more.
As a plastic surgeon, Dr. Bengtson believes in providing patients with a comfortable environment for their consultation and treatment or procedure. His concierge office is in the Womens Health Center at Grand Rapids MidTowne Center.
To find out more about Grand Rapids plastic surgeon Dr. Bradley Bengtson, contact the Bengtson Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery in Michigan. Call (616) 588-8880 or 1-877-822-8880 to schedule a consultation. You may also reach out online.
Jeff Doctor, Executive Director of National Indian Cannabis Coalition Tribal entities must be careful in choosing partners in the emerging legal cannabis industry
The National Indian Cannabis Coalition (NICC), the only tribal advocacy organization dedicated to ensuring tribal entities have the opportunity to participate in the regulated cannabis and hemp markets, expressed concern with the circumstances surrounding the High Times Cannabis Cup. The event, scheduled to happen this weekend on Moapa Paiute tribal lands located outside of Las Vegas, Nevada, was the subject of a February 16 letter from U.S. Attorney Daniel Bogden.
In his letter, Bogden stated that he was informed that the tribal council is moving forward with the planned marijuana event because it is under the impression that the so-called Cole Memorandum and subsequent memoranda from the Department of Justice permit marijuana use, possession and distribution on tribal lands when the state law also permits it. Unfortunately, this is an incorrect interpretation of the Departments position on this issue.
Jeff Doctor, Executive Director of the NICC, said, We believe the memos from the Department of Justice clearly allow tribes the right to leverage their tribal sovereignty to pursue economic development with legal cannabis. But those memos are not carte blanche for anyone to just dive into this industry without the proper steps. And while we salute the efforts of the Moapa Paiute Tribal Citizens, Im not certain I can say the same for Cannabis Cup event partner Ultra Health and their leader Duke Rodriguez. There are those in the industry who will attempt to hide behind tribal sovereignty for financial gainat the expense of the tribal partner.
Its all about economic development, job creation, and tribal sovereignty, said Doctor. Look at Washington State. After the state legalized recreational marijuana, the tribes worked collaboratively with the Washington state legislature and Governor to create a legal and regulatory scheme that allows both tribal and state participants to move in and out of the states regulated system.
Both industry operators and tribes must show diligence in evaluating potential endeavors, said Doctor. Indian Country can be setting a great standard for the cannabis industry as it moves toward legalization, he said, just as it has done in gaming.
The National Indian Cannabis Coalition believes that increased economic opportunity can only be achieved when all parties are working together.
A partnership with a tribal entity can be a real benefit for industry, said Doctor, but it has never been more important to enter these agreements with extreme care.
The ultimate outcome of this weekends Cannabis Cup remains unclear.
Event promoters are saying the event will continue just as planned. We are hopeful that this means the tribe, the United States and the tribes partner have reached an agreement that continues to open doors for Indian Country," said Doctor.
For more information, please contact:
Jeff Doctor (jdoctor(at)niccunited(dot)org)
Executive Director
National Indian Cannabis Coalition
819 7th Street, 4th Floor
Washington, DC 20001
With the activities located right in our backyard in Southern California, we have the tremendous opportunity to engage with the local off-road community while donating to many of the worthy off-roading causes that benefit us all.
Transamerican Manufacturing Group (TMG) Brands, including Poison Spyder, are sponsoring and participating in the Tierra Del Sol Desert Safari (TDS) when it returns to Ocotillo Wells SVRA, California March 3-5. The 55th annual event will feature trucks and Jeeps with 4x4 enthusiasts running trails, camping, entering for a chance to win over $150,000 in prizes and raising funds for off-roading causes. Poison Spyder, Smittybilt, Pro Comp, G2 Axle & Gear and Rubicon Express are among vendors donating a number of desirable aftermarket products to be raffled off as prizes during the weekend.
After environmental issues prompted a move last year to a new venue, Tierra Del Sol is excited to return to Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area. Presented by the Tierra Del Sol 4 Wheel Drive Club of San Diego, event organizers welcome the move back to the over 85,000 acres that balance natural resources with recreation.
Participating TMG brands are donating $500 gift certificates for the raffle and Poison Spyder is contributing a TJ Lazer-Fit Full Cage Kit. The raffle gets underway on Saturday night March 4, with entrants hoping for a chance to win aftermarket products for trucks, Jeep 4x4s, pre-runners, quads and ATVs. Family-friendly activities will be going on all weekend including post-raffle fireworks and trail runs ranging in degree of difficulty.
Tierra Del Sol is a staple of key events on the years off-road calendar, said Brad Senesac, TMG Brands Marketing Director. With the activities located right in our backyard in Southern California, we have the tremendous opportunity to engage with the local off-road community while donating to many of the worthy off-roading causes that benefit us all.
About the Tierra Del Sol Four Wheel Drive Club of San Diego
The three-day Tierra Del Sol Desert Safari is the not-for-profit Four Wheel Drive Club of San Diegos premier annual event. The club has its roots in desert Search and Rescue teams located approximately 100 miles east of San Diego and it was formally formed in the 1940s and dedicated to exploration and adventure. Four Wheel Drive Club of San Diego works to raise donations for its events, to protect off-roading areas and maintain local trails.
About Transamerican Manufacturing Group
Transamerican Manufacturing Group (TMG) brands include Smittybilt, Pro Comp, Rubicon Express, Poison Spyder, G2 Axle & Gear, Trail Master Suspension and LRG Rims. As manufacturers of innovative aftermarket truck parts and Jeep accessories for four-wheel drive vehicles, TMG brand products are popular with off-road enthusiasts. To learn more about TMG brands, please visit transamericanautoparts.com.
As the company has matured and thrived, we needed to build a new home that will support our employees and growth goals.
OP (Office Practicum), the leading innovator in pediatric-specific practice solutions, has moved its corporate headquarters from Horsham to Fort Washington, Pennsylvania. The move will allow the company to unify operations and provides room for future expansion.
On February 27, OP began moving PA employees to its new headquarters in APEX Fort Washington. Situated on 40 acres, just 16 miles northwest of Philadelphias central business district, APEX Fort Washington is a modern office campus with desirable amenities, such as a recently redesigned cafe, fully-equipped fitness center and a modern conference and training facility.
The expansive offices at APEX Fort Washington give OP the ability to consolidate all of its operations on one floor and promote collaboration between departments. The floor plan offers OP plenty of additional space for future anticipated growth.
OP grew at an annualized rate of almost 30% over the seven years we spent in Horsham, and we have every reason to believe that success will continue during our seven year commitment to APEX, said Gregory H. Anderson, CEO of Office Practicum. As the company has matured and thrived, we needed to build a new home that will support our employees and growth goals.
OP recently announced record bookings growth in 2016, making it one of the fastest growing electronic health record (EHR) companies in the nation and the market leader among pediatric-specific EHR vendors.
For more information on how OP connects physicians and patients to an engaged community of the best pediatric resources, people and technology, schedule a demo today and follow us on Twitter @OfficePracticum.
About OP
OP (Office Practicum) is a top ranked provider of electronic health record and practice management software for use in clinical settings. Since 1992, the innovative OP solution has been delivered to over four thousand pediatricians across 48 states and the Caribbean, ranging from solo providers to enterprise groups. The privately held company maintains primary offices in suburban Philadelphia, Cleveland and central California. For more information visit http://www.officepracticum.com.
About the Fort Washington Office Park
The Fort Washington Office Park is the primary center of business and industry in Upper Dublin Township. This 536 acre, mixed-use modern business park is strategically located at the crossroads of the PA Turnpike and PA Route 309, in the heart of suburban eastern Montgomery County and fourteen miles from Center City Philadelphia. This regional commerce center consists of 66 buildings, containing roughly 6 million square feet of commercial space, including Class A office facilities, back-office operations, distribution and manufacturing, hotel, restaurant and recreation uses. Upper Dublin Township has embarked on a major reinvestment program to improve public infrastructure, enhance Turnpike access and add new amenities to benefit local businesses and their employees. More information is available at http://www.upperdublin.net/business-development/fort-washington-office-park-fwop/
Remote Medical Technologies (RMT) will be returning to the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology (USCAP) 2017 Annual Meeting from March 6th through March 8th. This year, USCAP will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. RMT will be demonstrating their latest iMedHD2 Telepathology Solutions. RMT will be uncovering the most versatile portable aspects of their proven Mobile Cart-Based Telecytology offering for rapid on-site evaluations, their Remote Robotic Control Microscope and Live Grossing Systems.
iMedHD2 Telepathology Solutions provide doctors and assistants with the ability to instantly share highly secure, high definition images for immediate collaboration and decision making. There is absolutely no pre-processing or scanning of slides before transmitting the image. All RMT products are designed to expand and protect the past and current investments made by the medical facility because iMedHD2 Telepathology Solutions easily integrates with present equipment. This solution also provides digital accessibility to those distant pathologists or practitioners who want to use their own mobile devices, smartphones, and tablets (i.e. iPhone, iPad, and Android devices) to participate.
This 106th Annual Event is known to be one of the largest meetings of pathologists worldwide. The Academy consistently improves content, diversity, and delivery of educational research studies. RMT Founder and CEO, Don Marchon, explains, RMT technology enhances clinician real-time workflow productivity unlike any other telepathology product on the market. The RMT iMedHD2 Mobile Cart-Based Telepathology Solution instantly shares secure, high definition images from one remote location to another. This highly secure and compact mobile workstation contains all components of RMTs technology mounted directly onto a customizable easy-to-roll cart. Live, dynamic HD video streams to remote pathologists from any room into which the cart has been re-located. Now, RMT has taken this a step further by providing their Remote Robotic Control Microscope with the cart, therefore enhancing the remote aspects of their mobility. Technicians and assistants need not manipulate the image for the remote pathologist with the Remote Control functionality. Pathologists can quickly change objectives and scan the live slide truly in real-time.
If you plan on being in San Antonio, be sure to visit RMT at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center booth #120 and receive a hands-on demonstration of the iMedHD2 systems.
Questions? Want to learn more? Call toll-free at 855-867-3040, email RMT at info(at)rmtcentral(dot)com or contact Remote Medical Technologies online at http://www.rmtcentral.com.
About Remote Medical Technologies, LLC.
Remote Medical Technologies is the creator of an innovative patented technology for delivery of Internet-based premium telemedicine services. The company is a Limited Liability Corporation headquartered in New York. RMT provides a best-in-class web-based video, voice, collaboration and administration platform. With simply the use of a browser the solution is easy to deploy, operate and manage. This customizable and extendable multimedia services platform is a modular, non-fragmented approach to extending a healthcare organizations communications infrastructure. Be it across the street or around the globe, RMT drives telemedicine concepts and provides solutions that save lives.
BLOOMNGTON A Clinton woman accused of stealing more than $400,000 from the medical practice that employed her is in negotiations with federal prosecutors to resolve charges that carry a possible 20-year prison term.
In a court filing delaying her March 7 jury trial in U.S. District Court in Springfield, attorneys for the government and Veronica Luster disclosed that the two sides "have met on several occasions in an effort to resolve the factual disputes regarding the amounts in issue" and recently obtained information.
The lawyers "have discussed a resolution of this matter, but have not finalized a critical term of any agreement," according to filings by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan David Freres and defense lawyer L. Lee Smith.
A March 17 hearing is set to discuss a change in Luster's not guilty plea she entered shortly after her arrest on mail and wire fraud charges in 2015 related to the alleged embezzlement of more than $400,000 from Clinton Internal Medicine and Dr. Farrukh Kureishy.
Kureishy, who is now employed at the Family Medicine Clinic at Warner Hospital and Health Services in Clinton, filed a lawsuit in 2014 against his former office manager. The doctor accuses Luster of taking more than $600,000 from the medical practice for personal items, including books, clothing, home improvement items and electronics.
The pending lawsuit seeks repayment of the office funds and Luster's salary.
Luster was employed at the medical practice from 2005 until her termination in 2014 after the alleged embezzlement was discovered.
Miramar Home Design and Model Center I love my home! The rooms are so big that sometimes I get really excited... I could take the apartment I lived in and put it into my master bedroom and still have room to move about! -Mary,
Nature Reserve is located close to everything, within minutes to Disney, Orlando International Airport and downtown Orlando. The location is also close to I-4, Route 27 and Route 19. The Heart of Florida Medical Center is less than five miles away with a strong reputation of excellence. There are also great dining, shopping and Parks, all at a walking distance.
Maronda Homes has been family owned for over four decades and it has been dedicated to building quality new homes at an affordable price, all while maintaining superb customer service a priority. With the popularity of Maronda Homes rapidly increasing all over the state of Florida, Natures Reserves will help meet the high demand.
Natures Reserves will offer ten floor plans to choose from. Starting in the $189s, and ranging from 1523 - 3186 sq ft. Maronda Homes believes that buyers should dream of endless possibilities. Ensuring them that they will be along your side from the pre-planning stage of a project all the way until completion. With a highly trained staff, that will guide you and help you get the results you have dreamed of.
Do not miss the opportunity to join Natures Reserves "PICK YOUR LOT EVENT" in the month of March.
Event: Pick Your Lot
Location: 2811 Minute Maid Ramp Rd 1, Davenport, FL 33837
Date: March 1st-March 31st
Hours: Mon 1-6pm Tue-Wed 10-6pm Sat 10-6pm Sun 11-5pm
Dr. E. Michael Harrington, Music Business Chair at SAE Institute Nashville The only similarity is insignificant: both are rock songs with loud guitars and rock bands in the most common time signature.
British guitarist and songwriter Paul Rose filed a lawsuit on Monday, February 27, 2017 accusing the superstar band U2 of borrowing elements from his demo tape for the bands song, The Fly. 26 years after the songs debut, Mr. Rose is seeking a $5 million judgment for copyright infringement as well as a songwriting credit from U2.
There is no copyrighted expression that was copied, says Dr. Harrington, Music Business Program Chair at SAE Institute Nashville. The discernible melodies between both have nothing in common. Like the Blurred Lines decision, no melody, harmony, rhythm or lyrics were copied, and there was no sampling.
Dr. Harringtons reference to the infamous Blurred Lines case involving Robin Thicke, Pharrell Williams, and Marvin Gaye is no coincidence; he has been an active participant in the case, sharing his perspective with major media outlets. His writings and interviews are cited as authority in The Amicus Brief supporting the bid for Thicke and Williams to appeal the judgment against them. The Blurred Lines case remains in the 9th Circuit of Appeals.
The timing of Mr. Roses lawsuit 26 years later is peculiar, but as Dr. Harrington explains, there is no limit to when action can be filed. Its unfortunate, but since the Raging Bull decision in the Supreme Court, there is no longer an actual time frame that is too long to wait before filing an infringement.
Regardless, Dr. Harrington believes the claims of Mr. Rose against U2 are bogus. The only similarity is insignificant: both are rock songs with loud guitars and rock bands in the most common time signature.
About SAE
SAE Institute provides aspiring creative media professionals with a foundation of practical theory and valuable hands-on training in their chosen areas of concentration. Under the guidance of industry-experienced faculty, students gain the essential experience they need for entry-level jobs in the creative media industry. Students are supported in their job searches by SAE Institutes international network of alumni, many of who are leaders in the music, film, game arts, and live performance arenas. SAE Institute offers accredited programs in Audio, Animation, Film, Games, and Music Business focused on preparing students for employment in the creative media industry upon graduation. SAE Institute Group, Inc. is a part of Navitas LTD. Learn more at usa.sae.edu.
About Navitas
Navitas is an Australian global education leader, providing pre-university and university programs, English language courses, migrant education and settlement services, creative media education, student recruitment, professional development, and corporate training services to more than 80,000 students across a network of over 120 colleges and campuses in 31 countries. Learn more at Navitas.com.
Dean Kamen
Dean Kamen, president of DEKA Research & Development and head of the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI), will present a keynote address at Worcester Polytechnic Institutes (WPI) second annual Advanced Biomanufacturing Symposium.
Organized by WPI life sciences and bioengineering faculty members and the universitys Biomanufacturing Education and Training Center (BETC), the symposium is set for March 27-28 and focuses on emerging biomanufacturing technologies and the challenges of making novel cell and regenerative tissue therapies for patients.
To develop the processes and technologies for manufacturing tissue therapies at scale will require significant innovations and partnerships across academia and industry, said Kristen Billiar, PhD, professor and head of WPIs Biomedical Engineering Department and a member of the symposium organizing committee. So it is timely for Dean Kamen to address these matters and lay out the vision for the new ARMI consortium at this years symposium.
In December 2016 the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) announced an $80 million award to ARMI to lead the DoDs Advanced Tissue Biofabrication Manufacturing USA initiative. Organized by Kamen, ARMI includes 47 industrial partners and 26 academic and academically affiliated partners, including WPI.
ARMI will integrate the diverse and fragmented collection of industry practices and institutional knowledge across many disciplines to realize the potential of a robust biofabrication manufacturing ecosystem, the DoD wrote in the statement announcing the award.
In addition to Kamen, a member of WPIs Class of 1973 and a 1992 recipient of an honorary doctorate in engineering from the university, keynote presenters for this years symposium are Manon Cox, PhD, president and Chief Executive Officer of Protein Sciences Corp.; Jerome Ritz, MD, professor at Harvard Medical School and executive director of the Connell and O'Reilly Cell Manipulation and Gene Transfer Laboratory at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; and Gail Naughton, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Histogen Inc.
Also of note, Travis McCready, JD, president and CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, and Kelvin Lee, PhD, Gore Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Delaware, who led the team that organized the recently funded National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL), will speak at the symposium. (WPI is also an academic member of NIIMBL.) The full symposium agenda and registration information is available here.
About the Biomanufacturing Education and Training Center at WPI
Funded in part by a grant from the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, the BETC is a multi-faceted resource for the biologics industry, providing a range of hands-on customized programs. The BETC works with biomanufacturers to help them train, and retrain, their employees at a state-of-the-art center removed from their own production facilities. The center also provides research collaboration opportunities and consulting services to help companies manage challenges, explore new technologies, or scale up new processes. Learn more at http://www.wpi.edu/+betc
About Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Founded in 1865 in Worcester, Mass., WPI is one of the nations first engineering and technology universities. Its 14 academic departments offer more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science, engineering, technology, business, the social sciences, and the humanities and arts, leading to bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees. WPIs talented faculty work with students on interdisciplinary research that seeks solutions to important and socially relevant problems in fields as diverse as the life sciences and bioengineering, energy, information security, materials processing, and robotics. Students also have the opportunity to make a difference to communities and organizations around the world through the universitys innovative Global Projects Program. There are more than 40 WPI project centers throughout the Americas, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Europe.
Contact:
Michael Cohen
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester, Massachusetts
508-868-4778, mcohen(at)wpi(dot)edu
Civicom continues to make an impact in the UK as it further shares its range of solutions for market researchers as an exhibitor at Insight Show 2017.
Dubbed the UKs largest dedicated event, the Insight Show is a widely attended gathering of market research experts and exhibitors. In nurturing the market research ecosystem, the Insight Show showcases networking opportunities for insight analysts and solution providers, as well as an agenda that boasts of sessions covering the latest developments in global market research as well as expectations in industry innovation, including tapping into todays technologies such as the utilization of social media behavior and even virtual reality content.
As a global leader in marketing research facilitation, Civicom continues to develop a competitive suite of solutions by taking part in insight-filled sessions with knowledge experts. Civicom also aims to strengthen its industry presence in the UK and Europe in meeting with prospects and clients at the event. Maria Huab, Civicoms Regional Account Manager for the UK, along with Rebecca West, Civicoms Global Vice President for Marketing Research Services, will be attending the conference. Everyone is encouraged to know more about Civicoms services by visiting their booth located at Stand No. IB106.
About Civicom Marketing Research Services
Civicom Marketing Research Services offers many options to enhance the research process for marketing research professionals. Civicom is the global leader in facilitating telephone and web-enabled IDIs and Focus Groups using Civicom CyberFacility. Civicom also offers Civicom Chatterbox, an asynchronous research platform for online communities and bulletin boards, plus the Civicom ThoughtLight Mobile Insights App, a qualitative mobile tool for collecting richer in-the-moment insights, and offering geolocation plus off line accessibility for places where there is no data connection. Civicom ThoughtLight works with both iOS and Android and is a useful tool for shopper insights, audio diaries and patient journeys.
Civicom operates in over 96 countries and offers extensive translation services for marketing researchers, as well as transcription services through TranscriptionWing, and respondent recruiting through CiviSelect. All of these services are available in Spanish, as well as English, and multiple other languages.
Civicom Marketing Research Services continues to be at the forefront of innovation and new strategies in marketing research, actively participating in various conferences and networks that engage in developing new techniques with the latest technologies globally. Civicom Marketing Research chooses to be as dynamic as it is innovative; always listening to and acting on clients ideas and requests as they see fit. This kind of relationship has paved the way for the development and roll-out of new services.
Civicom is known among its clients for dedication to service quality and for the companys motto Your Project Success Is Our Number One Priority.
Civicom Marketing Research Services chooses to be as dynamic as it is innovative; always listening to and acting on clients ideas and requests as they see fit. This kind of relationship has paved the way for the development and roll-out of new services.
To learn more, email Civicom at inquire(at)civi.com or call +1-203-413-2423.
California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson with California Casualty AVP Lisa Almeida, Field Marketing Manager Amanda Keidel and CEO Beau Brown at the Teachers of the Year Gala The event is about passion, creativity and excellence. It honors the winners, and it honors so many who dont get recognized for their commitment and dedication.
California Casualty had the distinct honor to participate in the gala recognizing Californias Teachers of the Year in February. The five finalists were described as guideposts in charting a new course of excellence.
Megan Gross, special education instructor at Del Norte High School in San Diego, was named Californias 2017 National Teacher of the Year candidate, and is one of four finalists for 2017 National Teacher of the Year designation.
California Casualty CEO Beau Brown remarked that, The event is about passion, creativity and excellence. It honors the winners, and it honors so many who dont get recognized for their commitment and dedication.
AVP Lisa Almeida, who introduced California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, was humbled by the sheer strength and tremendous dedication the award winning teachers showed. What an amazing evening of celebrating America and American Education, she said.
As the Presenting Sponsor for the third year, California Casualty is helping to make possible these other California School Recognition Programs:
California Gold Ribbon Schools honoring exemplary public schools which demonstrate significant gains in narrowing the achievement gap
Classified School Employee of the Year highlighting those who symbolize the professions commitment to education
California Green Ribbon School Awards recognizing schools that accomplish great things in the areas of sustainability and health
California Blue Ribbon Schools acknowledging schools that promote and support the improvement of education
California Casualty is proud to celebrate teachers and education support professionals who make a difference for their students and communities. California Casualty Field representatives will present awards and attend other special recognition ceremonies, enhancing the companys 65 year commitment to educators.
Headquartered in San Mateo, CA, California Casualty provides auto and home insurance to educators, firefighters, law enforcement and nurses across the country. Founded in 1914, California Casualty has been led by four generations of the Brown family. To learn more about California Casualty, or to request an auto insurance quote, please visit http://www.calcas.com or call 1.800.800.9410.
America is home to a melting pot of culinary delights. From quick meals at fast food restaurants to five-star dining, you can find a fusion of flavors in practically every city. This is a country that truly loves food. There are entire television channels devoted to food, festivals celebrating favorite foods, and holiday traditions that revolve around foods. One of the newest food crazes to hit the United States is Burgerim. This Israeli-based franchise got its start in 2011, but quickly drew attention from curious foodies around the world as word spread about the gourmet mini-burgers and unique customized menu concept. Within just two years, Burgerim branched out with more than 80 franchises.
Burgerim is opening up it's newest burger restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee on Saturday, March 4th with a huge grand opening celebration of complimentary burgers to the local memphis community. According to Burgerim Memphis Facebook page and eventbrite, all tickets have been 'sold out' (given away) for a complimentary Burgerim duo pack of burgers, fries, and a drink of your choice. The celebration starts at 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM.
The Secret to Burgerims Explosive Franchise Growth:
Thousands of restaurants attempt to franchise, but only a handful succeed on a global scale. For Burgerim, the explosive growth is largely due to the completely unique concept. Burgerim is the first restaurant built around customized mini-burgers where customers can play around with patty flavors, unusual toppings, and a vast array of sauces. Every burger is unique and theres always more than one. Combos feature a duo, trio, or party box where hungry burger fans can feast on 2.8 oz. patties made from dry aged beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, and many more options. Toppings range from traditional to completely unconventional. At Burgerim, the bite sized burgers are topped with pineapple, avocado, mushrooms, or sunny side eggs. You can mix and match flavors on every burger to create a new experience at each visit.
Another major contributor to Burgerims fast paced growth is the consistently better fast food experience. Forget long lines, rude servers, or boring decor. Burgerim provides food that is fast and affordable in a modern, upscale setting. Its a casual dining opportunity where service is consistently good and the staff is always warm and welcoming. Franchise opportunities are available in over 33 states including California, Arizona, and Colorado. Franchisees undergo rigorous training to make sure staff upholds the Burgerim reputation by offering delicious food in a fun and friendly way.
The Best New Burger Franchise Opportunity:
With global recognition for the food, atmosphere, and service, Burgerim is one of the hottest new burger franchise opportunities in the United States. The companys rapid growth is fully organic as hopeful restaurant owners compete for a chance to buy into the business model that has been an overwhelming success in every single location. Burgerim goes the extra mile for franchisees, providing ongoing support that extends long after the grand opening is complete.
Burgerim franchisees enjoy a long list of benefits. The company provides a complete roadmap to launching a successful restaurant starting with comprehensive business training. No restaurant experience is required to open a Burgerim franchise. The company is eager to train passionate aspiring entrepreneurs to be successful in the food industry. When you invest in a Burgerim franchise, youll also gain full access to advertising and marketing plans that have been put to the test worldwide. Youll receive customer service training and learn how to recruit the right type of employees. Youll even get access to pre-screened suppliers and assistance with real estate and interior design!
With so many perks riding on this popular burger franchise, you might be surprised to learn that the upfront investment is actually very low. Burgerim even offers financing to all franchisees to make it easier to get started. Franchise representatives work with each potential franchisee candidate to determine if Burgerim will be the right fit for their city. If its a match, the potential for long-term profitability is unlimited. For more information about franchising a Burgerim burger restaurant in your city, visit Burgerims franchising page at https://www.burgerim.com/burger-franchise/business/ and complete the contact form.
Burgerim has left an undeniable mark on the American franchise scene. With constant growth across multiple states, the Israeli-burger phenomenon is here to stay.
Dr. Todd Britten Performs Bone Grafting Procedures To Make Dental Implants Possible For Patients With Missing Teeth. After the loss of a tooth, the jawbone recedes, or becomes indented. Bone grafting allows us to fill in this space to have enough bone to place a dental implant.
Dr. Todd Britten recommends modern bone grafting procedures, or periodontal regeneration procedures, for patients with missing teeth who need additional jaw bone support for the placement of dental implants. Dr. Britten, an implant specialist and periodontist in Clearwater, Florida, also provides the latest technology and techniques in ridge augmentation, ridge preservation, sinus lift or sinus augmentation procedures for patients missing teeth to be able to have dental implants.
Dental bone grafts can come from multiple sources. Autogenous grafts come from the patient, allografts are taken from a bone bank where human bone from cadavers has been donated, and xenografts are taken from animal bone. Local anesthesia is all that is needed in most cases. The new bone is surgically placed in the jaw area where it is deficient in bone and transplanted where the dental implants will be located.
Sometimes Leukocyte Rich Platelet Rich Fibrin is used in addition to bone grafting. (L- PRF) is a by-product of a patient's own blood that can help healing after dental procedures such as a tooth extraction, as well as promote healing around bone or tissue grafts and dental implants. L-PRF treatments are often used for greater success for necessary procedures for dental implant placement, including socket bone grafts, sinus lifts, ridge augmentation, correcting peri-implantitis, block bone grafts and extraction sites prior to implant placement. Dr. Britten provides both of these technologies in his Clearwater, Florida periodontal practice.
The dental bone graft, or periodontal regeneration procedure, must be allowed to heal completely prior to other procedures, such as the placement of dental implants. This will generally take about four to six months. Once the area has completely healed, the patient can be reevaluated for the placement of dental implants.
Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is a periodontal practice offering patients personalized dental care in implant dentistry in Clearwater, Florida. Dr. Todd Britten received his Bachelor of Science & Doctorate of Dental Surgery from University of Florida, a Masters Degree and Certificate in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry; and completed extensive training at the Institute of Advanced Laser Dentistry. He is one of the only board-certified periodontists in Pinellas County. He is a member of the American Academy of Periodontology, American Dental Association, Florida Association of Periodontists, Upper Pinellas County Dental Association, Hillsborough County Dental Association, Hillsborough County Dental Research Association and Florida West Coast Dental Association.
Patients interested in these procedures can get additional information at http://www.brittenperio.com or call (727) 586-2681.
A three-year research collaboration effort between the United Sorghum Checkoff Program and DuPont Pioneer has yielded a major new tool for sorghum improvement.
DuPont Pioneer research scientists, led by Cleve Franks and Tanveer Hussain, discovered two sorghum haploid inducer lines. The first of its kind, these patent-pending inducer lines enable the creation of doubled haploid sorghum, which is the first step to significantly accelerating the sorghum breeding process.
The development of doubled haploid sorghum capabilities represents a major leap forward in sorghum breeding technology, United Sorghum Checkoff Program CEO Tim Lust said. This technology provides sorghum breeders with a powerful means of developing higher-yielding sorghum hybrids with the technology our growers need, both in the United States and abroad.
The United Sorghum Checkoff Program funded the Pioneer research as part of a three-year, $800,220 investment. The research, conducted in Texas, Kansas, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Iowa, leveraged the world-class, global breeding programs of Pioneer.
The inducer lines discovered by Pioneer will give sorghum breeders the opportunity to create finished inbred parents in a single step, said Franks, sorghum research scientist, DuPont Pioneer. This could accelerate the breeding process by potentially cutting the time required to create new hybrids in half.
The results and developments from the collaboration will be available for out licensing. As one of the top five cereal crops in the world, sorghum can be grown as a grain, forage or sweet crop. The United States is the world's largest producer of grain sorghum, having produced 597 million bushels in 2015. The United Sorghum Checkoff Program partners with both public and private sorghum breeding entities.
The United Sorghum Checkoff Program (USCP) is a producer-funded organization that is dedicated to improving the sorghum industry through research, promotion and education. For more information about the USCP and other research projects, please visit http://www.sorghumcheckoff.com.
DuPont Pioneer is the worlds leading developer and supplier of advanced plant genetics, providing high-quality seeds to farmers in more than 90 countries. Pioneer provides agronomic support and services to help increase farmer productivity and profitability and strives to develop sustainable agricultural systems for people everywhere. Science with Service Delivering Success.
DuPont (NYSE: DD) has been bringing world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the form of innovative products, materials, and services since 1802. The company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs, and thought leaders, we can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment. For additional information about DuPont and its commitment to inclusive innovation, please visit http://www.dupont.com.
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3/2/17
, , SM Trademarks and service marks of DuPont, Pioneer or their respective owners. 2017 PHII.
Dr. Dennis Yun, MD, QME, has joined the leading network of doctors working on a lien basis to provide comprehensive pain management care for personal injury and workers compensation victims throughou Personal injury clients now have a trusted pain management doctor in the Bay Area.
Doctors on Liens continues its rapid expansion of medical specialties throughout Northern California with the recent addition of renowned pain management and anesthesia specialist, Dr. Dennis Yun, MD, QME, who practices at California Pain Center in San Francisco and the Richmond / San Pablo area. Personal injury and workers compensation victims are often fearful of pain management procedures. However, the wide array of procedures utilized by Dr. Yun can have dramatic results including substantial pain relief, increased range of motion, and improved quality of life.
Dr. Yun and his team of medical professionals bring a compassionate and multidisciplinary philosophy to patient care that is unique to personal injury treatment. Finding a doctor with the combination of medical experience and patient empathy is rare among doctors working on a lien basis in Northern California. Doctors on Liens is making that challenge much easier with the addition of Dr. Yun to its statewide network.
Dr. Yun completed earned his medical degree at Eastern Virginia Medical School. Not only did he complete his residency in Anesthesiology at the highly-regarded University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, but he completed his Pain Medicine fellowship at the renowned Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle.
And now, as part of Doctors on Liens, Dr. Yuns prestigious background and wealth of experience will be available to injured patients throughout the Bay Area. Dr. Yun and his team can treat a vast array of injuries with treatments including:
Medication management
Minimally invasive injection (spine and joints)
Epidural steroid injection
Facet joint injection/medial branch block
Large and small joint injections
Sacroiliac joint injection
Radiofrequency ablation
Diagnostic discography
Peripheral nerve injection
Trigger point injection
Spinal cord stimulation
Botox injection for chronic migraine headache
IOVERA cold therapy
Remarks Doctors on Liens President, Samantha Parker, Doctors on Liens is so thrilled to be working with such a renowned, double board certified physician. It is so hard to find doctors with Dr. Yuns unique combination of education and experience working on a lien basis. The law firms we have cultivated relationships with for over twenty years are going to be ecstatic their clients now have a trusted pain management doctor in the Bay Area.
Doctors on Liens is an innovator in the medical lien specialty referral industry and has forged close relationships with both legal firms and medical practices over the past 20 years.
Doctors on Liens features medical specialties including board certified orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, general practitioners, psychologists, and chiropractors. Each medical office is independently owned and operated and all appointments can be conveniently scheduled directly with the facility.
Doctors on Liens lists medical professionals who offer medical services on a lien basis in Southern California, Central California, and Nevada.
The Michael F. Price College of Business at the University of Oklahoma today announced the introduction of the Online Master of Accountancy program, a globally accessible online degree.
The Online Master of Accountancy degree offers a digitally-delivered graduate curriculum that provides students the additional credit hours required to qualify for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination in Oklahoma, Texas and many other states. In 2016, students within the Price College Steed School of Accounting had the best average CPA first time passage rate among Big XII public universities at 75 percent, which exceeds the already impressive 74 percent average pass rate of Price College students over the past 10 years. The Online Master of Accountancy degree at Price College allows even more students access to such a high level of preparation and success. (Note: the national CPA average pass rate is 55 percent.) Program overview: http://www.ou.edu/content/price/accounting/online-macc.html
For those in the accounting field, obtaining a Master of Accountancy and passing the CPA exam dramatically increases opportunities for their entire career, said Price College Dean Daniel W. Pullin. Yet, todays demanding business climate requires that these professionals balance existing work and life priorities if they are to successfully pursue graduate education. OUs launch of the Online Master of Accountancy gives these aspirational students the flexibility to achieve this degree while working full time, and allows them to put this knowledge to work immediately, which benefits employer and employee alike.
The Online Master of Accountancy program is designed entirely by the faculty at Price Colleges Steed School of Accounting. Recognized as one of the select accounting schools in the nation to be separately accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the online option builds on OUs success with its longstanding residentially delivered Master of Accounting degree by making it accessible to future Sooners anywhere in the world. Classes begin in August, with degree completion expected within two years.
Students also have the option to add a global experience to their studies, which will broaden their view of international accounting and accelerate the time to degree completion. This unique two-week, three-credit-hour International Financial Statement Analysis module exposes students to international business and accounting professionals in London, Paris and Brussels. In addition to course credit, the student will earn an International Financial Reporting Certificate through the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, which confirms student learning of international financial reporting standards.
In addition to the strength of its accounting programs, Price College has deep experience in delivering fully-accredited graduate programs through digital delivery. Launched in 2014, Price Colleges Executive MBA in Energy has become one of the world's most successful digital graduate offerings, having been recognized as a Tier I program by CEO Magazine and ranked among the top three in the world by Find-MBA.com the past two years. With the launch of the Online Master of Accountancy program, Price Colleges accounting expertise and digital track record combine to provide new educational and career opportunities for more students than ever before.
For more information about the Master of Accountancy, please visit: http://www.ou.edu/content/price/accounting/online-macc.html
About The Price College of Business:
Established in 1928, the Michael F. Price College of Business ensures the enduring global competitiveness of Oklahoma and the nation. As OUs second-largest college, the Price College of Business educates over 4,000 students through undergraduate, masters, executive and doctoral programs across six academic divisions in Accounting, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, Finance, Management and International Business, Management Information Systems, and Marketing and Supply Chain Management.
The college boasts 25 nationally ranked programs. U.S. News & World Report currently ranks the colleges undergraduate program in the top 50 (#48) on its list of "Best Undergraduate Business Programs." The Steed School of Accounting is consistently ranked in the top 10 at both the undergraduate and graduate level among other business schools of its size by Public Accounting Report. The Center for Entrepreneurship is consistently ranked second in the nation among public universities at the undergraduate level and among the top 10 by Princeton Review and Entrepreneur Magazine. The International Business program ranks in the top 30 by U.S. News & World Report for the 11th consecutive year. The Price College Full-Time and Professional MBA Programs are among Bloomberg Businessweeks Best B-Schools of 2016, and ranked as a top 10 (# 7) program by CollegeAtlas.org for its affordability, academic quality, accessibility, GMAT average and job placement results. The Executive MBA in Energy, launched in 2014, has been named a Tier I program by CEO Magazine and among the top three in the world by Find-MBA.com the past two years.
New Braunfels, TX (78130)
Today
Partly cloudy with late night showers or thunderstorms. Low 71F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..
Tonight
Partly cloudy with late night showers or thunderstorms. Low 71F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Sisu, a new album by Jennifer DeFrayne "Each song on this album embraces the spirit of sisu in one way or another, and each song is meant to reflect the many characteristics of sisu." Past News Releases RSS Lawrence Blatt, the Bay Area...
Music for Relaxation: Tron Syversen...
The melting pot known as America includes many cultural ingredients, and Finnish-American pianist Jennifer DeFrayne is playing her part to contribute the special spice known as sisu. Her sophomore album (titled Sisu) is co-produced with Corin Nelsen, and releases globally today via her independent record label, Palo Isle Music; it is available in physical CD or digital form, on Amazon, iTunes, CDBaby, most music websites and http://www.jenniferdefrayne.com.
Sisu was a familiar word for DeFrayne, growing up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, one of the cradles of Finnish culture in the U.S. It is loosely defined as a unique quality characterizing the Finnish spirita mindset that enables an individual to reach beyond their present limitations, act against all odds and transform struggles into success. It is believed to be a universal capacity which we all share: Perseverance, Courage, Endurance, Determination, Grit, Fortitude, Bravery, Spirit, Resilience and Inner Strength.
DeFraynes life is a demonstration of sisu, as told more deeply in her biography. At the age of 5, she embarked on her journey as a self-taught pianist inspired by the wild beauty of the land around her, which is featured in her new Sisu music video. Despite many family heartbreaks and health challenges, she continued turning to the piano for solace, and in 2014, was named Best New Artist by Zone Music Reporter, when her debut album By A Wire (Little Hartley Music) was also nominated for Best Piano Album with Instrumentation.
Many artists release a critically-acclaimed debut album only to stumble a bit on the sophomore effort. Such is not the case for DeFrayne, according to earlier reviewers. While Sisu shows growth and change for DeFrayne, it also underscores the fact that the praise heaped on her first recording was a mere precursor to the artistry yet to come. Regarding the evolution of the 12 songs on the new album, Sisu, she says, "Each song on this album embraces the spirit of sisu in one way or another, and each song is meant to reflect the many characteristics of sisu."
To highlight a few tracks on the album, one begins with Fire Island a contemplative piece titled with an English translation of her strong Finnish maiden name Palosaari. The raw pouring out of emotion that DeFrayne invites the listener to witness is instantly engaging. The mood lightens on Be Who You Are, indicating the acceptance of the trials and tribulations that have riddled her life. By far, the most haunting and moving song on the album is its namesake Sisu. The artful layering of tones, moods, and instrumentation (piano, violin, bass guitar and Electronic Wind Instrument aka EWI) certainly earn this track the title of a masterpiece.
Her years of coping with personal grief, illness and recovery from a stroke at an early age, led Jennifer to want to heal others, too; this healing spirit is apparent in the peaceful song Palo Santo. The airiness of an EWI with gentle piano and vocalizations conveys a sense of calm and space. Equanimity feels like a deep breath in a trying time; conveying multiple emotions at once, DeFrayne engages soft vocals and English horn to portray strength and composure in the midst of a storm. Perseverance is Jennifers closing message to her listeners; it is melancholy wrapped in joy, with a touch of percussion added to an encouraging and hopeful soundscape.
An impressive roster of guest artists contributed to the album, including Jeff Haynes (percussion), Premik Russell Tubbs (EWI and sax), Michael Manring (bass guitar and EBow), Jill Haley (English horn and oboe), Sara Milonovich (violin and vocals), Jeff Pearce ("ambient" guitar), and Jeff Oster (flugelhorn). Sisu was produced by DeFrayne and Grammy-award winner Corin Nelsen (SynchroSonic Productions), who also mixed & mastered the album. All music was composed, and piano performed, by DeFrayne.
In an early review, noted music writer Bill Binkelman stated "Jennifer DeFrayne's Sisu is not just better than her debut, which is already high praise, but it is a work of such emotional depth, technical artistry, and self-assuredness, that I am left wondering 'Where has this remarkable woman been all this time?' "
In 2017, Finland celebrates 100 Years of Independence with its Centennial, and the world will learn much about Finnish life, culture and traditions. Thanks to DeFraynes new album, many Americans will be ahead of the curve, having already learned the essence of sisu from her life and music.
Broadcast promotion for the album is handled by LAZZ Promotions, Ed & Stacey Bonk; contact via (905) 470-1230 or e-mail: lazzpromotions(at)rogers.com.
For review copies and interviews, please contact Beth Ann Hilton at The B Company / PR & Marketing, via (310) 560-8390 or e-mail: bethhilton(at)theBcompany.com.
Follow Jennifer on Social Media at:
facebook.com/jenniferdefraynemusic/
instagram.com/jenniferdefrayne/
twitter.com/JDeFrayne
youtube.com/channel/UCIwjWHztUJ8JAQtIyEBM6WA
Track List:
Fire Island (5:49)
Be Who You Are (4:19)
Sisu (7:17)
Beyond (5:19)
Gathering (3:55)
Palo Santo (6:21)
Roots (3:38)
Stepping Stones (5:02)
Equanimity (4:41)
Internal Light (3:23)
Renew (3:41)
Perseverance (5:25)
Nerijus Beiga Is The Newest Franchisee In The STOP Franchise System It was interesting to me to learn how many similarities the restoration industry had with my prior career in hotel management.
Nerijus Beiga had been searching for a business where he could deploy the customer service skills that he had sharpened during his successful career in Hotel Management. It was interesting to me to learn how many similarities the restoration industry had with my prior career in hotel management, said Beiga. I managed an in-house repair and maintenance department which repaired things regularly and, unfortunately, had to deal with water damage and other forms of restoration from time to time. I am so excited about joining the Service Team of Professionals Franchise System.
We are really excited about having Nerijus join the STOP Family, Said Brian Clark, VP of franchise development. It is not often that you get a guy with this type of management experience from an industry that has its fair share of facility restoration needs and who has this level of customer service background. STOP promotes a high touch relationship with local customers and the insurance industry. A Franchisee must understand the importance of both customer service and quality, timely workmanship. We are confident that Nerijus has both skills, added Clark.
Beiga will be helping families and business owners in the Naperville, Wheaton, Downers Grove and Oak Brook communities with plans to grow his operations to market-leading size in the next few years. "At the moment, I am going to focus on developing relationships in the reach of greater Naperville but I have plans to expand my operations in the future to serve other communities around Chicago. I am confident that the STOP name and commitment to quality work will help me penetrate the industry," said Beiga.
About STOP Service Team of Professionals Franchise
Headquarted in Temecula, CaliforniaSTOP has been a leader in the restoration franchise space for nearly 20 years and has operations in 21 states throughout North America. Franchisees are specially trained to handle the complexities of disaster situations. STOP has helped an estimated 167,000 homes and business owners recover from a range of water, fire, indoor environmental issues and disasters since their founding. For additional information on franchising, contact John Armatas at 855.844.8377 or visit our franchise website at http://www.stoprestorationfranchising.com
Example of spatial extent differences between flood recurrence intervals in Broomes Island, MD VPCs policy expertise allows Calvert County Government to better serve residents who own flood-prone properties located inside and outside of FEMAs 100-year floodplain.
The Flood Mitigation Plan Update was funded by a Coast Smart Initiatives Grant from NOAA and administered through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Chesapeake and Coastal Service Program. The VPC Team, led by VPCs President, Deepa Srinivasan and Dr. Michael Scott of Salisbury University, utilized FEMAs HAZUS-MH software to estimate the financial loss associated with specific levels of floodwater in the southern Maryland County of Calvert. The analysis takes into consideration how far inland the water will go, as well as its height, to determine how much damage it could potentially cause.
The estimated depth of the potential floodwater was developed from LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) elevation measurements taken in 2011, that show not only which areas will be inundated, but also by how much. The HAZUS software then crosses these elevation measurements with the flood polygons of the Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps (DFIRMs), which are used by the National Flood Insurance Program to determine floodplains and insurance rates. These two inputs generate flood depth grids for areas based on the 10%, 4%, 2%, 1%, and .02% chance of flood occurrences in 2016, 2050, and 2100.
Various flood depth grids are overlaid with the building polygons, to determine which buildings fell in the flood zones. The building layer was then laid over the various flood occurrence grids to determine which buildings were at risk for each recurrence interval. These buildings were then matched to the Countys 2013 Tax Assessments to show the assessed value of the property.
Finally, to determine the total financial loss, the function of the building is used to estimate the value of its contents. The industry standard estimates for the contents are; one-half of the value of a residence and 100% of the value of a commercial building. Thus, a total dollar amount can be given for each building, whether commercial or residential, for each potential flood occurrence.
The success of this project is attributed to our Client who dug into the data, Dr. Scott shared. Its very heartening to know that someone cares enough to make sure were doing it right.
The analysis conducted by Dr. Scott shows Calvert Countys flood-vulnerability beyond that of FEMAs DFIRMs, it also identifies flood-prone properties outside of the 100-year floodplain, said Calvert County Department of Community Planning and Building Environmental and Long Range Planner, Tay Harris.
Combining Dr. Scotts analysis with VPCs policy expertise allows Calvert County Government to better serve residents who own flood-prone properties located inside and outside of FEMAs 100-year floodplain. In recent years, nuisance flooding has become a more frequent problem in Calvert Countys low lying communities. It is important to work with these communities to plan for the future and mitigate the impacts of flooding and sea level rise, added Dr. David Brownlee, AICP, Principal Environmental Planner.
Vision Planning and Consulting (http://www.planVPC.com), is a small, minority and woman-owned 8(a) certified firm based in Fulton, Maryland, specializing in emergency management, community planning, public outreach and education, and grants management, with a focus on technology. VPC prides itself in assisting communities to plan and prepare for disasters, and building consensus across all levels of government, private sector, and academia.
HAK (Armenian National Congress) MP Aram Manukyan was not boasting when he told reporters today that there is no parliament in the world like the one in Armenia.
Rather, Manukyan described the latest four-day sitting of Armenias parliament as the saddest in its history.
Its a record. Sixty votes in just three days, Manukyan exclaimed.
Noting that the parliament passed 46 bills in the span of 72 hours, Manukyan joked that the countrys legislators must be so intelligent, literate and clever in order to serve-up so many laws to the public.
Its as if we were voting on a bill every few minutes or so, Manukyan said, adding that the quality of the current parliament is something to be ashamed of.
They press buttons, hand out money to people at the polling stations, collect passports, and scare people, the HAK MP said referring to the current April 2 parliamentary election campaign.
Noting that sixty current MPS will be running for reelection, Manukyan warned that the level of mediocrity has a good chance of remaining in the parliament.
He concluded by saying that 90% of MPs voting in favor of this or that bill, couldnt even tell you what the legislation was about.
The military arm of Armenias Investigative Committee is looking into how three conscript soldiers were injured when an explosive device was detonated while they were carrying out construction work at a defensive military post on February 28.
The three injured soldiers Narek Grigoryan, Berj Gabrielyan and Erik Sahakyan - were immediately taken to a military hospital.
A criminal case of negligence has been launched.
In last weeks blog Land rich but feeling dirt poor? You have more than you think, I gave an overview of the unfortunate outcomes that can happen when farmers do not have their estate planning ducks in a row. Richard Bollenbeck, a Wisconsin attorney, told multiple horror stories at a monthly agri-business meeting.
He is a lawyer who does not recommend wills as a means to divide family assets. He talked about the differences between wills, revocable trusts, and irrevocable trusts. There have been changes in the law that affect transfers of assets and he reviewed them as well. Bollenbeck suggested that most people are best served with a revocable trust.
About 35 to 40 percent of the farms in Wisconsin are in revocable trusts. Its more common now since changes to the trusts were made in 1995. Items (land, equipment, and so forth) can now be added or removed from the revocable trust at any time. And the trustee no longer has to be an attorney (who you pay a healthy fee); it can be a family member or nonrelative. The disbursement process is much swifter and less cumbersome with a trust instead of a will. There is also the possibility to minimize/avoid state death taxes related to probate with a trust.
He also reminded attendees that having a Limited Liability Corporation (LLC) is not the same protection as a will or trust. Having an LLC is a good thing to protect assets, but it has nothing to do with transferring them. You need a will or a trust to do that.
Bollenbeck described five criteria for a will to be binding:
Be in writing (oral agreements are not valid) Must be signed (having it in a drawer and not signed as leverage over others makes it invalid). People must be 18 years of age or older at the time of signing Two disinterested parties need to witness and sign it (those that do not benefit). Signees must be of sound mind. As people age, this could come into question. Write the will while all faculties are secure. A will can be changed, so it can be altered or a new one written as long as there is no sign of mental illness.
More to think about
In addition to the basic trust and will, there are also health care and power of attorney documents that should be drafted so everyone is aware of who is to make what decisions. As farmers age, they need to think about their long-term health care. If not properly planned, the cost of off-farm senior living can drain the farm of its assets leaving nothing for the next generation they hoped to help.
Elder care now averages about $8,000 a month, so it doesnt take long to spend a substantial amount of savings. And any transfer of assets (typically to family) must be completed five years prior to elder care or else those assets are still fair game to pay care costs.
Bollenbeck detailed Medicare, Medigap, and Medicaid. With extended health care needs, a person can easily spend their assets down to nothing. Medicaid only kicks in when there is nothing left (assets or cash).
There is a lot to think about, but Bollenbeck advised the group to find an attorney you trust and to ask questions. He works in Wisconsin and other areas may vary. If your attorney does not have the answers, consider a new one. Work with someone who understands farming because it is a totally different beast than other business models.
The author is the online media manager and is responsible for the website, webinars, and social media. A graduate of Modesto Junior College and Fresno State, she was raised on a California dairy and frequently blogs on youth programs and consumer issues.
Odafe Atogun. Pantheon, $24.95 (240p) ISBN 978-1-101-87145-4
Uniting a retelling of the Orpheus myth, an indictment of totalitarian inhumanity, and a Kafkaesque meditation on identity within the spare language of fable, Atoguns memorable debut novel testifies to the power of both oppression and art. Its protagonist, a musician known only as Taduno, runs afoul of the ruthless Nigerian government for stirring up the populace with his protest songs. Losing his famous voice as a result of their brutality, he goes into exile. Three months later, he receives a letter from his girlfriend, Lela, warning him that their homeland is changing dangerously. Deciding to reunite with her, Taduno returns to Lagos only to discover that no one recognizes him, all of the documents that prove his identity have mysteriously disappeared, and Lela has been abducted by the government in its attempt to gain leverage over him. Taduno realizes that the only way to regain his identity is to regain his voice. But his musical rebirth has an impossible cost: will he save Lela by singing for the government, or remain true to his people and his soul? Readers familiar with Nigerian political history or the countrys late musician-activist Fela Kuti will find echoes of both in the novel. But Atogans allegory, at once bleak and hopeful, needs no external glosses to speak clearly and powerfully.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. New research findings show that as the world warmed millions of years ago, conditions in the tropics may have made it so hot some organisms couldnt survive.
Longstanding theories dating to the 1980s suggest that as the rest of the earth warms, the tropical temperatures would be strictly limited, or regulated by an internal thermostat. These theories are controversial, but the debate is of great importance because the tropics and subtropics comprise half of the earths surface area, greater than half of the earths biodiversity, as well as over half the earths human population. But new geological and climate-based research indicates the tropics may have reached a temperature 56 million years ago that was, indeed, too hot for living organisms to survive in parts of the tropics.
That conclusion is detailed in the article Extreme Warmth and Heat-Stressed Plankton in the Tropics during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, published by the online journal Science Advances and co-authored by Matthew Huber, professor in the Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences Department at Purdue University and member of the Purdue Climate Change Research Center. Hubers contribution focused on climate modeling and interpreting paleoclimate data within the context of modern theoretical understanding. Part of this work was performed while Huber was also at the University of New Hampshire.
The Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) period occurred 56 million years ago and is considered the warmest period during the past 100 million years. Global temperatures rapidly warmed by about 5 degrees Celsius (9 F), from an already steamy baseline temperature, and this study provides the first convincing evidence that the tropics also warmed by about 3 degrees Celsius (5 F) during that time.
The records produced in this study indicate that when the tropics warmed that last little bit, a threshold was passed and parts of the tropical biosphere seems to have died, Huber said. This is the first time that weve found really good information, in a very detailed way, where we saw major changes in the tropics directly associated with warming past a key threshold in the past 60 million years.
The study is unique because of the quality of the geological records utilized. Geological records from the PETM are difficult to find, especially from an area of the tropics, Huber said. The research was based on a shallow marine sedimentary section deposited in Nigeria.
We dont find 50-million-year-old thermometers at the bottom of the ocean, Huber said. What we do find are shells, and we use the isotopes of carbon and oxygen within the shells, complemented by temperature proxies from organic material, to say something about the carbon cycle and about the temperature in the past.
Two research methods were used to judge the temperature during the PETM, one utilizing isotopes in shells, while the other examined organic residues in deep-sea sentiments. The biotic records left behind from living organisms indicate they were dying at the same time the conditions were warming.
If the tropics are not able to control its temperature and do not possess an internal thermostat, that should reshape future thinking about climate change, Huber said.
If you say theres no tropical thermostat, then half of the worlds biodiversity over half of the worlds population, the tropical rainforests, the reefs, India, Brazil these populous and very important countries have nothing to prevent them from warming up substantially above conditions that humans have been used to, he said.
The trends in temperature increases in the tropics are similar to those found in other parts of the world, but other records have been very sparse and limited until now.
Hubers work has been funded by the National Science Foundation through grants EPS 1101245 and OCE 0902882. The model used in the study is developed by the National Center for Atmospheric Research, which is also supported by the NSF. Computing was provided by ITaPs Research Computing.
Media contact: Brian Peloza, 765-496-9711, bpeloza@purdue.edu
Source: Matthew Huber, huberm@purdue.edu
Note to Journalists: A copy of the research paper is available from Brian Peloza, Purdue News Service, at 765-496-9711, bpeloza@purdue.edu
ABSTRACT
Extreme warmth and heat-stressed plankton in the tropics during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum
Joost Frieling1, Holger Gebhardt2, Matthew Huber3, Olabisi Adekeye4, Samuel
Akande4, Gert-Jan Reichart5,6, J.J. Middelburg5, Stefan Schouten5,6, and Appy Sluijs1
1 Marine Palynology and leoceanography, Laboratory of Palaeobotany and Palynology, Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, The Netherlands. 2 Geologische Bundesanstalt, Austria.
3 Department of Earth Sciences, University of New Hampshire. 4 Department of Geology and Mineral Sciences, University of Ilorin, Nigeria. 5 Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.6 NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, and Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
Global ocean temperatures rapidly warmed by ~5C during the Paleocene - Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM; ~56 million years ago; Ma). Extra-tropical sea surface temperatures (SSTs) met or exceeded modern subtropical values. With such warm extra-tropical temperatures, climate models predict tropical SSTs >35Cnear upper physiological temperature limits for many organisms. However, few data are available to test these projected extreme tropical temperatures or their potential lethality. We identify the PETM in a shallow marine sedimentary section deposited in Nigeria. Based on planktonic foraminiferal Mg/Ca and oxygen isotope ratios and the molecular proxy TEX_86^H, late Paleocene equatorial SSTs were ~33 C, and TEX_86^H indicates that SSTs rose to >36 C during the PETM. This confirms model predictions on the magnitude of polar amplification and refutes the tropical thermostat theory. We attribute a massive drop in dinoflagellate abundance and diversity at peak warmth to thermal stress, showing that the base of tropical foodwebs is vulnerable to rapid warming.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. Kayapo leaders and artists from the Central Brazilian Amazon are visiting Purdue University in early March.
There will be a public film screening and discussion of Kayapo documentaries and shorts at 6-7:30 p.m. Monday (March 6) in the Krannert Auditorium. An opening reception also will precede the event from 4-5:30 p.m. These events are sponsored by Purdues Native American Educational and Cultural Center.
An Evening with Kayapo and Mebengokre Leaders and Artists is 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday (March 7) in Mann Hall Atrium at Discovery Park. The event, which is open to the public, is sponsored by the Center for the Environment, Department of Anthropology and College of Liberal Arts. The event also will feature a photo exhibit highlighting Kayapo community life.
The Kayapo people live in a federally demarcated homeland the central Brazilian Amazon a territory which has remained a stronghold of preserving biocultural diversity and rights in a period of rapid deforestation, says Laura Zanotti, an associate professor of anthropology, who has worked with the Kayapo peoples for more than 10 years.
We are thrilled to host them at Purdue this March, says Zanotti. We are honored that they are visiting on their trip to the United States and eager to have students, faculty, staff, and the public dialogue with them about art, media, and conservation.
Kayapo tribal leaders, artists, and filmmakers are visiting Purdue to discuss the conservation-development challenges their communities face, feature new artistic and documentary productions from tribal members, and highlight their role in addressing some of the worlds grand challenges.
Zanotti also co-advises the EPICS GAPS team, whose members have been developing alternative power solutions and sustainable infrastructure solutions to a media center in one Kayapo village.
The Kayapo visitors include:
* Kaket Bepuneiti Kayapo is a tribal leader of the village of Aukre. Kaket has long supported media making initiatives in his community and other partnerships with universities and local and international nongovernmental organizations.
* Pat-i Kayapo is a filmmaker in the community of A'ukre, serving as a leader and organizer of a group of men and women filmmakers. He enjoys making films, participating in community life, and documenting Kayapo culture.
* Bepto Kayapo is a filmmaker in the community of A'ukre. For the past several years, he has served as the main filmmaker who works with the A'ukre school system documenting anything from class activities and elder visits to the school.
* Pykatire Kayapo is a songwriter and musician from the Kayapo village of Kabau. He recently has received much acclaim for the production of Kayapo Pop music, which is a mixture of Kayapo lyrics with regional non-indigenous Brazilian forro, brega and sertaneja dance and musical styles.
Writer: Amy Patterson Neubert, 765-494-9723, apatterson@purdue.edu
Source: Laura Zanotti, lzanotti@purdue.edu
These are Richard Roeper's mini-reviews (unless otherwise noted) of some of the movies currently playing in the Quad-Cities area.
"Get Out" (R, 105 min.). When a young black man (Daniel Kaluuya) meets the parents of his white girlfriend (Allison Williams), it's the start of a cutting-edge, fresh and sometimes bat-bleep-crazy mash-up of "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," "Rosemary's Baby" and "The Stepford Wives." Writer-director Jordan Peele pays homage to some great horror films while carving out his own fantastically creative path. Rating: Three and a half stars.
"The Great Wall" (PG-13, 104 min.). Cast as the Great White Hope alongside several popular Chinese actors, Matt Damon plays a mercenary enlisted to help fight an invasion of paranormal monsters. A fantasy with some pretty cool visual effects but scads of unintentionally hilarious dialogue, "The Great Wall" is so wonderfully bad, I could see some coming for the action and staying for the camp laughs. It's a beautiful bomb. Rating: One and a half stars.
Currently on video
"Jackie" (R, 99 min.). "Jackie" is a morbid, uneven, sometimes elegant, sometimes insightful examination of the immediate aftermath of the assassination of JFK, as told through the lens of the first lady. Natalie Portman is sure to be nominated for an Oscar for her performance in the title role, and deservedly so -- even though there are some moments when the dialogue and the overt symbolism come dangerously close to camp. Rating: Three stars.
"Moana" (PG, 113 min.). With help from a demigod (voice of Dwayne Johnson), an adventurous island princess sets out on the sea to save her homeland in an animated musical bursting with gorgeous visuals, filled with inspirational messages and chock full of gentle and quite clever humor. Rating: Three and a half stars.
"Allied" (R, 124 min.). A taut, tense thriller for its first half, this World War II film starring Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard later becomes a weird hybrid of domestic drama and wartime intrigue that sometimes stretches credulity and veers close to unintentional humor. The highs are so impressive and the lows are so ... weird. Rating: Three stars.
"Moonlight" (R, 110 min.). Gorgeous and yet bleak, uplifting and yet sobering, writer-director Barry Jenkins' modern masterpiece chronicles pivotal periods in boyhood, adolescence and adulthood in the life and times of one person played by three skilled actors. This is a film brimming with memorable work. Rating: Four stars.
"Bad Santa 2" (R, 89 min.). Some 13 years after the fantastic, brutally offensive "Bad Santa" became something of a cult classic, this lazy, crummy-looking, poorly paced, why-bother follow-up lacks the Christmas bells to go full-out politically incorrect. Billy Bob Thornton half-heartedly reprises the title role, with Kathy Bates cracking unfunny jokes as his mother. Rating: One and a half stars.
"Hacksaw Ridge" (R, 130 min.). Director Mel Gibson dishes out the symbolism and the sermonizing in blunt and unrelenting fashion in a gruesomely effective and ultraviolent World War II movie about a man (Andrew Garfield, rising to the occasion) who was so nonviolent he refused to pick up a gun, even during combat in Okinawa. Rating: Three stars.
"Nocturnal Animals" (R, 117 min.). Director Tom Ford tells parallel stories of a gallery owner (Amy Adams) reading a novel by her ex as the ex (Jake Gyllenhaal) lives the story. For all of the exquisitely framed and expertly lit sequences, for all the valiant efforts by some of the finest actors around, it left me as cold and unaffected as just about any prestige, A-list project I've seen all year. Rating: Two stars.
"Manchester by the Sea" (R, 137 min.). With this story of a bitter Boston custodian (Casey Affleck) returning to his hometown after his brother's death, writer-director Kenneth Lonergan has delivered a modern masterpiece reminiscent of the classic, gritty dramas of the 1970s. It's no easy journey, but my goodness is it brilliant. Rating: Four stars.
WHEATON, Ill. (AP) A man convicted of killing his roommate during an argument hours after moving into the man's Naperville townhome in 2014 has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Twenty-four-year-old Grant Muren learned his punishment on Thursday. He was found guilty last year of second-degree murder, aggravated arson and residential arson following a bench trial in DuPage County.
Muren's lawyer had argued at trial that the killing was self-defense.
Prosecutors say Muren beat and strangled 55-year-old Charles Clark after they had a sexual encounter and Clark told Muren to leave the home.
Authorities say the Clark met Muren after the younger man answered Clark's Craigslist posting for a new roommate. Investigators said that Muren tried to burn a lease agreement and cause an explosion at the home with natural gas.
SPRINGFIELD Local state senators still see hope for a state budget agreement.
The Illinois Senate returned to work Thursday, a day after the long-anticipated "grand bargain" fizzled, the Associated Press reported. The wide-ranging deal had been negotiated by Democratic Senate President John Cullerton and Republican Leader Christine Radogno, of Lemont.
Sen. Cullerton had intended to call critical parts of the deal for a vote Wednesday, seeking up or down ballots on an income tax increase, a temporary property tax freeze and other parts of the bill. Sen. Cullerton said he killed that effort because Gov. Bruce Rauner, a Republican, talked senators from his party out of supporting it.
Gov. Rauner and Republican senators say there was no pressure brought to bear, but they did not dispute lackluster support for it.
Local state Sens. Neil Anderson, R-Rock Island, and Chuck Weaver, R-Peoria, dispute the deal is a goner. Although both remain wary of parts of it, they cited progress this week toward a compromise.
I believe this deal is still alive," Sen. Anderson said Thursday. "Further negotiations are needed to reach a consensus on the framework, and were going to continue to negotiate.
"At the end of the day, what we all want is a deal that balances the budget, funds education, grows jobs and protects the taxpayers," he said. "That is what we will keep working toward."
He said that, while he was uncomfortable with some aspects of the budget framework, he was happy to vote for things such as funding for college student grants and higher education.
"Going forward, there is still some work to be done to reach a consensus on the remaining pieces of legislation in the framework," he said. "I think we took a positive step forward this week by advancing several pieces of legislation that get us closer to a bipartisan budget compromise."
Sen. Weaver expressed doubt about passage of the remaining bills needed for the grand bargain.
"On Tuesday the senate passed five of the 12 grand bargain bills," he said. "There are still seven bills to be voted on. Those bills include tax increases without sufficient cuts to balance the budget. They do not have the reform we need to fix our state.
"We cannot support a package that only slows the decline of our state," Sen. Weaver said. "We must fix it."
BETTENDORF United Way of the Quad Cities Area raised $8.3 million in its 2016, a bit short of its $8.5 million goal, according to a Thursday announcement
"Due to several challenges in the community, we unfortunately weren't able to meet our goal," said campaign co-chairman Bryan Dixon, chief executive officer of RK Dixon.
"We knew this would be a stretch goal, but we wanted to step up to the challenge," he said. "The need is great in the Quad-Cities."
Still, the result amazed campaign co-chairman Jim Nelson, president and chief operating officer at Parr Instrument Company.
"Thank you to every single person who pledged their support to United Way to make our community stronger," he said. "I am continually amazed at the generosity of the Quad-Cities community."
Contributions included donations made by individuals and corporations as well as grant money.
Among major successes cited in United Way's media release was $473,000 raised by United Way's Women's Leadership Council for a "Born Learning" initiative. The women's council also added 49 new charter members.
It has raised $1.6 million toward a $2.2 million Born Learning goal that focuses on how parents are a child's first and best teacher. The initiative will include Born Learning Academies, a calendar and a text campaign with tips to turn everyday activities into teaching moments.
United Way board members now will decide which funding applications are accepted. Earlier this year, United Way announced a comprehensive change in how it will decide to invest its money, focusing on the areas of education, income and health.
"We received 80 applications for funding, 40 from former partner agencies and 40 from new organizations," United Way president Scott Crane said.
Funding decisions will be announced in May, Mr. Crane said.'
"United Way is changing in order to meet the needs of the Quad-Cities community," said Mr. Dixon, who will serve as this year's campaign co-chairman. "We've spent several years listening to our donors, and look forward to offering them the measurable results they seek while moving the needle in the areas where our community needs it most."
SANAA, Yemen (AP) U.S. jets carried out dozens of airstrikes on al-Qaida targets in Yemen overnight and in the past 48 hours in one of the lengthiest, sustained operations inside this conflict-torn Arab country, Yemeni officials and residents said Friday.
According to the officials, the strikes focused on a triangle-shaped mountainous region where three Yemeni provinces meet: Bayda, Shabwa, and Abyan. Casualty figures have been slow to emerge but officials said seven alleged al-Qaida militants were killed in the strikes on Thursday.
A senior Yemeni official described the strikes as "open-ended" and said they raised questions about the objectives of such an operation.
Residents in Shabwa said the strikes hit the town of Wadi Yabsham, where Saad Atef, the No. 2 figure in Yemen's al-Qaida branch, is living.
The residents and officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to talk to journalists.
Sadek al-Jaouf, a Bayada tribal leader, told The Associated Press that houses were bombed in Yakla district the site of a U.S. special operations' raid two months ago in which a Navy SEAL was killed, six American soldiers were wounded and a U.S. military aircraft suffered a hard landing and had to be destroyed.
In the ground operation, a total of 25 Yemenis were killed, including 10 children, drawing criticism by international rights groups and calls for an inquiry.
Al-Jaouf added that the top tribal figure, Abdel-Elah al-Dhahab, whose brothers were accused of links to al-Qaida and were killed in the January raid, survived the latest strikes.
On Thursday, Capt. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman, said the latest strikes were aimed at degrading the group's ability to "coordinate external terror attacks" and to limit its use of Yemen as a "safe space for terror plotting."
Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, as the Yemen affiliate is known, has long been seen as the global network's most dangerous branch, and has been implicated in a number of attempted attacks on the U.S. homeland.
The group has recently exploited the chaos of Yemen's civil war, which pits Shiite Houthi rebels and allied army units against a Saudi-led coalition battling to restore the internationally recognized government.
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When Jacinda Ardern was rattling off the things that matter most to all of us incredible Kiwis - it rang a little hollow when held up against Labours record.
2 hours ago
The Greenbrier Companies, Inc. on March 2 completed its agreement to increase ownership in Amsted-Maxion Equipamentos E Servicos Ferroviarios S.A. (Greenbrier-Maxion) from 19.5% to 60%.
Located near Sao Paolo, Brazil, Greenbrier-Maxion is South Americas largest railcar manufacturer, accounting for more than 60% share of new railcar production in Brazil. The company also offers a range of aftermarket services including railcar overhaul and refurbishment to address an aging railcar fleet, as more than 60% of the Brazilian fleet is at 30 years of age or older.
Greenbriers $20 million investment will be used to retire debt at Greenbrier-Maxion, thereby reducing interest payments by $4 million annually, the company said. The purchase option dates to May 2015, when Greenbrier obtained its initial 19.5% ownership of Greenbrier-Maxion. With the option exercise, the equity interest of Amsted-Maxion Fundicao E Equipamentos Ferroviarios S.A. (Amsted-Maxion Cruzeiro) will be reduced from 80.5% to 40%. Simultaneously with the closing of its investment into Greenbrier-Maxion, Greenbrier will increase its ownership stake in Amsted-Maxion Cruzeiro from 19.5% to 24.5% for $3.25 million.
Based in Cruzeiro, Brazil, Amsted-Maxion Cruzeiro is a manufacturer of castings and components for railcars and other heavy industrial equipment. Cruzeiro is well-integrated with the operations of Greenbrier-Maxion and draws on the experience of Amsted Rail, with whom Greenbrier currently partners in a U.S.-based castings facility, Greenbrier said. Amsted Rail is the global leader in railcar truck and component systems, which include truck castings, tapered roller bearings, railway wheels, axles and braking products. Additionally, Amsted Rail has introduced its Motion Control truck technology in South America to combine with new railcar technology from Greenbrier-Maxion. Amsted-Maxion Cruzeiro also benefits from its affiliation with Iochpe-Maxion, S.A., a prominent, publicly-held, Brazilian-based global auto parts supplier, which provides access to customer and supplier relationships.
Greenbrier indicated that proceeds from its increased ownership in Cruzeiro, along with loans from the partners, will reduce interest costs by approximately $3 million per year. Greenbrier will retain an option to increase its ownership in Amsted-Maxion Cruzeiro to 29.5% subject to certain conditions. With an enhanced ownership position in both companies, Greenbrier expects to enjoy greater benefits from the expected economic growth and infrastructure development in Brazil.
When completed, Greenbriers investments in Greenbrier-Maxion and Amsted-Maxion Cruziero will improve the capital structure of both companies, positioning each business for growth, said Chairman and CEO William A. Furman. Brazils economic, business and political conditions are recovering and forecasts indicate positive GDP growth in 2017. Greenbriers operations in Brazil, and our relationship with our partners Amsted and Iochpe, continue to yield positive results. Our facilities, which include the largest railcar assembly plant in South America, continue to gain momentum. In two short years we have already brought innovation to the South American railcar market. We introduced two new products to Brazil, a new triple-hopper grain car and a modern double-stack railcar design, drawing on our North American heritage as the leader in intermodal railcars.
We are expanding our investments in Brazil to reach customers who need high quality transportation equipment and in pursuit of continued growth and further diversification of Greenbriers global business into new markets. Our strong balance sheet enabled us to move quickly and decisively in seizing this opportunity. Our increased ownership allows us to use our core competency in manufacturing to drive operational efficiencies in these businesses. As Greenbrier becomes more active in the operations of both companies, we will evaluate opportunities to evolve our business model in South America to emulate our operations in North America, where we provide a suite of diversified aftermarket offerings for railcars such as maintenance, parts, refurbishment, leasing and management services.
Following the closing of this transaction and the previously announced Astra Rail transaction in Europe, Greenbrier will be the leading railcar builder in South America and Europe, and the second-largest railcar builder in North America, with the ability to tap markets in all three continents, as well as reach customers in the nations of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Africa, and Eurasia, the company declared. This global reach extends Greenbriers leadership in railcar engineering, design and manufacturing and enables partnerships with established transportation equipment providers whose local presence and experience assists Greenbriers growth in new regions.
Closing of the investments is contingent on meeting certain conditions, including the completion of antitrust approval in Brazil.
China's expanding military presence in the South China Sea has prompted Vietnam to enhance its ability to protect its own holdings in the region. In late November, for example, commercially available imagery revealed that Vietnam was dredging a new channel at Ladd Reef on the southwestern edge of the Spratly Islands, perhaps as a precursor to land reclamation or to improve access to other features (ChinaTimes, December 9, 2016). In the same month, Hanoi extended its sole runway and added new hangars on Spratly Island. Vietnam also reportedly fortified several of its holdings with what appear to be Israeli-built Extended Range Artillery (EXTRA) precision-guided rocket artillery launchers over the summer (Global Times, August 11, 2016).
Curiously, Chinese leaders have not punished Vietnam for any of these activities or even so much as complained about them. Instead, Beijing continues to maintain cordial and cooperative bilateral ties, with Chinese President Xi Jinping on January 12 hosting Vietnamese Secretary-General Nguyen Phu Trong in Beijing for bilateral talks. China has probably tolerated Vietnam's South China Sea activities because it feels increasingly confident in its improving military position throughout the region.
Indirect Condemnations
Chinese leaders have issued only indirect condemnations of recent Vietnamese activities in the South China Sea. For example, Beijing's foreign ministry officially responded to the reported deployment of EXTRA by stating that China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands [the Chinese name for the Spratly Islands] and their surrounding waters. The ministry further noted that China has always firmly opposed the illegal occupation of parts of China's Nansha Islands and reefs by certain countries and their illegal construction and military deployments on these islands and reefs (China Daily, August 11, 2016). It is noteworthy that Beijing issued such measured and generic statements given the provocative nature of the PRC media report. Indeed, even the often-strident state-run media outlet Global Times gave Vietnam the benefit of the doubt, stating that it hoped the report was only speculation from Western media and the two sides should practice restraint to avoid a crisis (Global Times, August 11, 2016).
China's reaction to other Vietnamese actions has been similarly circumspect. The foreign ministry, for instance, responded to reports that Vietnam had expanded its runway by urging the relevant countryVietnam was not specifically namedto truly respect China's sovereignty and legitimate rights and interests and to immediately stop its illegal occupation and construction and withdraw their personnel and facilities (FMPRC, November 18, 2016). Beijing's defense ministry also declined to identify Vietnam regarding the runway issue (China Military Online, November 30th, 2016). Both ministries instead left it up to Xinhua to later identify Vietnam as the country in question (Xinhua, November 18th, 2016). Separately, Hanoi's dredging activities at Ladd Reef prompted the foreign ministry to make similarly indirect statements (FMPRC, December 15, 2016; FMPRC, December 9, 2016).
Bilateral Relations Remain Positive
Despite their mutual suspicion, Chinese and Vietnamese leaders have remained remarkably cordial and cooperative in multiple dimensions of the bilateral relationship. In late December, for example, Vietnam hosted a two-day conference on enhancing economic cooperation with China (Xinhua, December 28, 2016). On defense, both sides routinely hail their cooperation. In February 2009, Vietnam and China finalized the demarcation of their border. Since then, Hanoi and Beijing have engaged in a series of confidence-building measures that have included defense minister discussions and joint exercises along the border, the most recent of which was a joint anti-terror border exercise in July 2016 (VietnamNet Bridge, November 2, 2016; The Diplomat, July 30, 2016; Xinhua, August 30, 2016).
Even in the maritime domain, China and Vietnam tend to look past their differences.
Even in the most contentious of domains, the maritime domain, China and Vietnam tend to look past their differences. In mid-January, after meeting with counterparts in Beijing, Vietnamese Secretary-General Nguyen issued a joint communique stating that the two sides planned to manage well their maritime difference, avoid actions that complicate the situation and escalate tensions, and safeguard the peace and stability of the South China Sea. To be sure, maritime differences are assiduously avoided in favor of cooperation. In November, for instance, the Chinese and Vietnamese coast guards took part in a joint patrol to monitor fishing areas of the Gulf of Tonkin (People's Army Newspaper [Vietnam], November 9, 2016). Moreover, in a symbolic step, the Chinese navy in October made a first-ever port call to the international port within Vietnam's Cam Ranh Bay (The Diplomat, October 23, 2016). Indeed, Xi Jinping in November called for China and Vietnam to work together to maintain stability in the South China Seawell after reports that Hanoi had deployed EXTRA on disputed features (Xinhua, November 20, 2016).
Confidence Born of Military Superiority
Beijing probably keeps bilateral relations cordial and productive in spite of Vietnamese actions because it maintains overwhelming military superiority in the region. China's Southern Theater Command fields diverse capabilities at multiple locations to keep the balance of power well in Beijing's favor. These include guided missile destroyers, nuclear-missile equipped submarine forces, long-range supply vessels, coast guard and other maritime enforcement ships, marine forces with dedicated amphibious capabilities, multiple launch brigades for land-based missiles, and air assets ranging from bombers to multi-role fighter aircraft (China Brief, July 22, 2016).
Beijing's considerable arsenal has enhanced its confidence to the point that China has decided only to quietly bolster its military defenses on disputed features. In November, for example, the Center for Strategic and International Studies' Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative assessed that China over the summer had deployed close-in weapon systems (CIWS) and anti-aircraft artillery on all of its holdings in the Spratly Islands. According to expert analysis, CIWS could be effective against sea-skimming cruise missiles, while anti-aircraft artillery could provide point defense for airfields and radar installations (AMTI, December 14, 2016). Vietnam has been actively acquiring cruise missiles that can be launched from a range of surface ships, such as Gepard-class frigates or Molniya-class corvettes, and from one of its six acquired Kilo-class submarines. In addition, Vietnam's air force continues to modernize its fixed-wing aircraft, which now features 36 Sukhoi Su-30s, in the hopes of providing Hanoi with maritime strike capabilities throughout the region.
China has deployed more high-profile defenses on Woody Island, the main island in the disputed Paracel Island chain within closer proximity to Vietnam. Beijing in mid-February 2016 deployed two batteries of eight Hongqi-9 (HQ-9) surface-to-air missile (SAM) launchers to Woody Island that enabled highly capable targeting of aircraft and missiles out to 120 nautical miles (Guancha, February 17, 2016). The deployment of this systemderived from the Russian-built S-300is a permanent fixture and not tied to exercises like the previous two deployments (China Brief, March 28, 2016). Beijing may also seek to use recently constructed facilities throughout the Spratlys to house additional SAMs, though this remains unclear for the moment.
Separately, in October, Beijing opened its first desalination plant in the South China Sea on Woody Island, providing an important source of fresh water to grow and sustain the present population there of approximately 1,500 residentsmost of whom are Chinese military personnel. In late December, Beijing initiated regular charter flights between Woody Island and Hainan to improve the work and living conditions of the city's public servants and stationed soldiers (Xinhua, December 22, 2016). With the desalination plant in place, Beijing will also have more fresh water available to help reduce the negative effects of operating weaponry in a high salt environment (The Diplomat, October 4, 2016). China might eventually decide to permanently station its fighter aircraft like the J-11Bwhich rotated through the island in 2015on Woody Island, though sufficient fuel storage and hangar space would still be required (Defense News, November 8, 2015).
Limits to Chinese Tolerance?
Judging from China's response thus far, it is fair to say that Beijing has chosen to tolerate recent Vietnamese construction activities in the South China Sea. However, China has a range of options to express its displeasure with Hanoi, such as emplacing a new structure in disputed waters, conducting military exercises, or stepping up sovereignty patrols in the region.
Any of these responses is possible, especially as tensions predictably rise in the South China Sea during the spring. In May 2014, for example, Beijing decided to emplace the Haiyang Shiyou oil rig in disputed waters, resulting in a months-long standoff between Chinese and Vietnamese coast guards until Beijing finally decided to remove the rig. It is unclear what motivated China to move the rig into the area in the first place, but the tactic was clearly designed to put pressure on Vietnam's sovereignty claims.
Chinese leaders might change their calculus if they believe Vietnam is trying to enlist the support of the U.S. or other partners to settle bilateral disputes. Hanoi's burgeoning security relationships with Japan, India, and the U.S. will be particularly sensitive to China. Beijing might also decide to more assertively and overtly challenge Vietnam if it assesses that Hanoi has acquired capabilities that can more effectively challenge China's military assets in the region. For example, for years Vietnam has been trying to procure from India the Brahmos sea-skimming supersonic anti-ship cruise missile, which could significantly endanger Chinese surface combatants. Recent reports also indicate that New Delhi might sell Hanoi the medium-range Akash SAM that might threaten China's fighter aircraft operations if acquired (Asia Times, January 11).
Finally, seasonal frictions over access to fishing and natural resources in the South China Sea could prompt increasingly aggressive Chinese tactics against Vietnamese vessels that might trigger an overtly military response. This week Vietnam slammed the imposition of a Chinese fishing ban from May to August in waters near the Paracel Islandsa tactic Beijing has employed annually since 1999. In this regard, the next few months should be instructive as to the future trajectory of the relationship.
Derek Grossman is a senior defense analyst at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation. He formerly served at the Defense Intelligence Agency as the daily intelligence briefer to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs at the Pentagon. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Defense Intelligence Agency, Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.
This commentary originally appeared on Jamestown Foundation's China Brief on March 2, 2017. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis.
U.S.-Iran tensions are likely to rise in the coming months. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear agreement between Iran and the P5+1 (United States, UK, France, Russia, China, and Germany) has been roundly criticized by President Donald Trump and others, including some lawmakers on Capitol Hill. The U.S. has declared Iran's recent ballistic missile tests to be in violation of UN Security Council resolutions, and top American officials have indicated a strong desire to contain and roll back Iranian influence in the Middle East.
The JCPOA is widely regarded to be a success story, especially by the EU, China, and Russia.
The U.S. has many options at its disposal, including the use of military force. However, the current balance of power in the Middle East and Iran's position in relation to major regional and international powers is likely to limit U.S. options toward Iran. The JCPOA is widely regarded to be a success story, especially by the European Union, China, and Russia. But perhaps more importantly, the Islamic Republic is relatively stable at home and a power to be reckoned with in the Middle East. To be sure, the U.S. can apply much more diplomatic and economic pressure against Iran and even resort to military force, but Washington will face real limits in its ability to change Iran's behavior in the region or stop its growing missile program.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, seeking re-election in May, was able to achieve his major promise to Iranian voters; he delivered the JCPOA and released Iran from crippling international sanctions put in place during the presidency of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (20052013). Many Iranians may rightly argue that Rouhani has not delivered much else; repression in Iran appears to have increased, and the economic benefits of JCPOA have not trickled down to the average person.
Yet Rouhani has achieved three important objectives: restoring regime stability, helping increase Iranian influence in the Middle East, and improving relations with major powers such as Russia, China, and much of the European Union. American critics of JCPOA often blame the agreement for emboldening Iran, but it should not be blamed as the chief cause of Iran's growing power. Domestic conditions in Iran and regional developments are the biggest factors.
Before Rouhani, Iran faced a major popular uprising over Ahmadinejad's contested 2009 election. Tehran and other major Iranian cities witnessed the largest protests since the Iranian revolution of 1979. Rouhani may not be immensely popular in Iran, but he is not as divisive as Ahmadinejad. He not only has the trust of the regime but also much of the public. Rouhani presents himself as a can-do official rather than an ideologue or inspirational leader. He has also bridged the gap between reformist groups and the conservative establishment, although the former is totally shut out from power and appears rather moribund. There are few indications of future unrest, although public dissatisfaction remains high. Iranian society is still divided, the regime is ever repressive, and the economy plagued by corruption and incompetence. But the Iranian regime is firmly in power, commands a vast security force, and has managed to heal divisions within itself for now. The death of Iran's Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, may create scenarios for instability, but the regime also appears to be preparing itself for a successful succession process. If there is instability, the Revolutionary Guards will surely consider the use of force to crush any insurrections, as they did in 2009.
U.S. measures that hurt and humiliate the average Iranian will certainly decrease U.S. soft power regarding Iran.
If the U.S. attempts to foment strife in Iran by pursuing a policy of regime change, it is likely to face steep challenges that it may not be able to overcome. This will be especially so if the executive order banning Iranians from traveling to the United States is re-implemented. America has a relatively positive reputation among the Iranian public, but U.S. measures that hurt and humiliate the average Iranian will certainly decrease U.S. soft power regarding Iran.
Additional sanctions against Iran will hurt, but Washington should not jeopardize the JCPOA, even if it is by a thousand cuts (e.g. another temporary travel ban on refugees and citizens from Iran and six other Muslim-majority countries). Iran is unlikely to walk away from JCPOA, knowing that it would rather have the world blame the U.S. for the agreement's possible failure. A confrontational U.S. approach toward China, Russia, and the EU may even make those parties side with Iran in any future conflicts over the JCPOA.
In addition to finding more stability at home, the Iranian regime has achieved greater power in the Middle East. The so-called Islamic State should be given much credit for Iran's rise in the region. An avowedly anti-Shi'a group, the Islamic State has inadvertently allowed Iran to accumulate more power in Iraq and Syria and gain closer ties to major international powers such as Russia. Iranian allies such as Iraqi Shi'a militias, the Syrian regime, and Lebanese Hezbollah have been key in fighting the Islamic State and other Sunni Jihadi groups. Of course, the Syrian regime and Hezbollah have spent much of their energies fighting the Syrian opposition and not the Islamic State, but Iran has been able to paint itself as a force against violent Sunni jihadism.
Both the U.S. and Iran seek to defeat the Islamic State, even if their larger goals in the region may be opposed. This gives Iran extra leverage in the Middle East and with the United States. Iran commands a regional expeditionary force of thousands of Shi'a foreign fighters in Iraq and Syria. Hezbollah has also developed a larger and more experienced military wielding heavy artillery and tanks. They have gained greater battle experience in Syria and look likely to have achieved Iran's key goal of assuring the survival of the Assad regime. More importantly, Iran and Russia are now closely aligned in Syria and beyond. Iran, a junior partner susceptible to Russian manipulation, is nevertheless critical to the future of the Middle East. Its influence cannot be easily rolled back.
The U.S. and Iran differ on many issues, and tensions between the two once-allies may increase dangerously in the near future. But the U.S. would likely have more to gain by sticking with the complicated relationship that has defined ties between Washington and Tehran since 1979. Always foes, but not always fighting, the U.S. and Iran have begrudgingly tolerated each other. They even signed a major, and so far successful, non-proliferation agreement because it benefited both. America cannot change Iran, and Iran cannot defeat America in the Middle East. The U.S. and the Islamic Republic don't have to maintain formal diplomatic relations or be partners, but there are issues that affect both, including the Islamic State. America has many ways to pressure Iran, and sometimes it should use them. But killing the JCPOA by a thousand cuts or any other way will hurt American interests. Sometimes the U.S. has to make and stick with a deal. Even if it is with the bitterest of enemies.
Alireza Nader is a senior international policy analyst at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation.
This commentary originally appeared on The Cipher Brief on March 2, 2017. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis.
Four members of Hizb-ut-Tahrir receive suspended sentences in Russia
MOSCOW, March 3 (RAPSI) A court in Russias Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug has found four local residents who joined the ranks of the terrorist organization Hizb ut-Tahrir, banned in Russia, guilty of extremism crimes and subjected them to suspended prison terms, RIA Novosti reported on Friday.
According to investigators, four residents of Nizhnevartovsk city joined the international terrorist organization Hizb ut-Tahrir al-Islami. They were active members of the group, campaigning and advocating in favor of organization, trying to create a positive opinion of its activities.
The court found that defendants propagated nationalistic, political and religious extremist ideas using literature related to activities of Hizb-ut-Tahrir. Such literature and other extremist publications were seized during searches conducted by authorities.
In addition, defendants published propaganda videos in social networks, trying to create a negative and hostile attitude to the law enforcement services and Christianity.
Hizb ut-Tahrir (the Party of Islamic Liberation), founded in Jerusalem in 1953, is banned in several Arab and Central Asian countries. Russia's Supreme Court banned the group from operating on the territory of the country in 2003, describing it as a terrorist organization.
Hizb ut-Tahrir members are regularly arrested by the police across Russia, mainly in big cities in central Russia, the Volga region and Siberia.
Supreme Court upholds sentence for detention center ex-officer in state disclosure case
MOSCOW, March 3 (RAPSI, Yevgeniya Sokolova) The Supreme Court of Russia has upheld the sentence for ex-employee of the notorious Matrosskaya Tishina pretrial detention center, Pavel Petran, who was found guilty of disclosure of state secrets, RAPSI learnt from the courts press-service on Friday.
On Monday, Petran was sentenced to 1.5 years in prison by the Moscow City Court.
A criminal case against Petran was marked as containing classified information. The court found out that Petran was an operative of the detention center at the moment of committing a crime.
Petran was originally a defendant in an extortion case, along with the ex-head of the detention centers operative department, Mikhail Zakharov, and acting officer of the insulator Valentin Bazayev, ex-employee of the insulator Anatoly Osmachko, a doctor at a Moscow clinic Fatima Nayfonova as well as two other ex-employees Anton Devyatayev and Yeldar Vekua.
According to investigators, Zakharov, along with other members of the detention center, conspired with a criminal mastermind in custody planning to extort money from detainees suspected of economic crimes. Defendants threatened to create unbearable living conditions and to use force against detainees if those were to refuse transfer of funds, amounting to 10 million rubles ($175,400).
Russian court stops proceedings in Rosnefts lawsuit against Transneft
MOSCOW, March 3 (RAPSI) The Moscow Commercial Court has stopped proceedings in a lawsuit filed by Russias largest oil producer Rosneft against Transneft oil company over allegedly unlawful cancellation of oil transfer services, RAPSI learnt in the court on Friday.
On February 17, the oil corporations settled their dispute with two companies reaching an agreement over lowering of acceptable losses rates.
On January 11, Rosneft lodged a lawsuit with the court over protection of its property interests.
On December 27, Rosneft filed a lawsuit against Transneft, asking the court to impose preliminary interim measures on protection of its property interests. TASS news agencys source in the Energy Ministry said that the dispute may be caused by Rosneft discontent with methods of calculating residue oil and petroleum products in Transnefts system.
On December 28, the court granted the plaintiffs request and ruled to impose preliminary interim measures which came into force on January 1 and prohibited Transneft from stopping transfer of oil belonging to Rosneft. The latter company claimed that Transnefts pipelines transport up to 1.3 million of tons of oil daily.
The plaintiff stated that cancellation of oil transfer services by Transneft would halt development of oil deposits used by Rosneft and its subsidiaries and which rely on contract signed by the two oil companies. According to Rosneft, such halt will cause significant irreparable damage to the oil company and its employees as well as government and other parties as it will provoke oil shortage.
Transneft disagreed with the courts measures. The company noted that Rosneft had not provided sufficient evidence to justify emergent preliminary interim measures before review of the lawsuit by the court. Transneft believes that there was no evidence of significant damage to the plaintiff and that balance of sides in court was disrupted by such measures.
Kalashnikov Concern files trademark infringement suit against French firm
MOSCOW, March 3 (RAPSI) The firearms maker Kalashnikov Concern has filed with the Commercial Court of the Udmurt Republic a lawsuit against French company Cybergun over alleged trademark infringement, according to court records.
The plaintiff demands to recognize its right to use the labels "" and "Kalashnikov" as part of trademarks and brand names and right to use the name of M. T. Kalashnikov in economic activity. Kalashnikov Concern also asked court to declare the defendants actions illegal.
The court will consider the case on March 13.
French company Cybergun was founded in early 1980s for production of radio controlled models of airplanes, cars and ships. Currently, the firm is engaged in production of pneumatics replicating different models of renowned companies and brands.
Kalashnikov Concern is an association of the largest companies in the Russian small arms industry. It was established in 2013 and includes Izhmash, the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant, the Vyatskie Polyany Machine Building Plant Molot, the Koshkin Automatic Lines Design Bureau (Klimovsk) and NITI Progress.
The group exports its products to 27 countries including the United States, the UK, Germany, Norway, Italy, Canada, Kazakhstan and Thailand.
What happened
According to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence, shares of Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) gained 7.7% in February. The move has added more than $11 billion to the pharma giant's market capitalization.
So what
Pfizer showered investors with a number of positive announcements during the month that helped to nudge its stock higher. Here's a review of the most important announcements from the period:
Top-line results from a study comparing its rheumatoid arthritis drug Xeljanz to AbbVie 's Humira showed that Xeljanz in combination with methotrexate met its primary endpoint in demonstrating non-inferiority versus Humira in combination with methotrexate.
's Humira showed that Xeljanz in combination with methotrexate met its primary endpoint in demonstrating non-inferiority versus Humira in combination with methotrexate. Pfizer and partner Celltrion Healthcare presented data at the annual Congress of the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation. The data showed that Inflectra -- Pfizer's biosimilar version of Johnson & Johnson 's megablockbuster drug Remicade -- showed similar efficacy and safety in treating Crohn's disease when compared to Remicade.
's megablockbuster drug Remicade -- showed similar efficacy and safety in treating Crohn's disease when compared to Remicade. Its FDA Biologics License Application, or BLA, for inotuzumab ozogamicin has been accepted for review. This drug has been granted Priority Review by the agency as a treatment for relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A decision date is expected by August 2017.
According to Pfizer and partner Merck, a second BLA has been accepted by the FDA for Priority Review of avelumab as a hopeful treatment for urothelial carcinoma. A decision is also expected in August of this year.
When you add this string of positive developments to the general rise in the healthcare sector -- as measured by the Vanguard Health Care ETF -- it is easy to understand why shares rallied in February.
Now what
Pfizer's management team is projecting that 2017 will be another year of growth. Revenue is expected to land between $52 billion and $54 billion while adjusted earnings per share is forecasted to fall in the range of $2.50 to $2.60. While the midpoint of this range represents a small bump from the $52.8 billion in revenue and $2.40 in adjusted profits recorded in 2016, it's growth nonetheless. It's also worth pointing out that this forecast reflects the upcoming disposition of its Hospira Infusion Systems business and a negative hit from currencies. Absent these charges, the growth rates would be quite a bit higher.
All in all, Pfizer continues to look well positioned to post modest EPS growth in the years ahead. With shares trading for less than 14 times full-year earnings estimates and offering up a dividend yield of 3.7%, Pfizer remains a solid choice for healthcare investors who eschew risk.
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Who could be against a rule that requires investment advisers to act in the best interests of their retiree-clients? Donald Trump, the Washington branch of the Goldman Sachs alumni association, the Wall Street Journal, and well-intentioned policy wonks who have never met a regulation they like, that's who.President Trump has set in motion a process that will allow the so-called fiduciary rule to die a quiet death, rather than become effective in April. He has postponed the application of the rule, which would require brokers to act in the best interests of clients, with the expectation that postponement will become permanent. That's what Gary Cohn, a Goldman alumnus who heads the National Economic Council, says he wants to happen. The intention of the rule was to protect investors, especially retirees, from advisers who would assign their clients' interests a lower priority than earning fees from sales of financial instruments. Some who are advising investors are already subject to such a rule but othersinsurance and annuity salesmen, for exampleare held to a lower suitability standard. Opponents of the rule argue that it will unleash a wave of meritless lawsuits by unhappy investors when the prices of shares and other assets decline, and will deprive small investors of the advice of professionals unwilling to expose themselves to that risk.
Russian and Japanese officials are preparing for March 14 talks in Tokyo to discuss the economic development of the Kuril Islands. Territorial claims over the archipelago have been a subject of dispute between Russia and Japan since the 19th century. The islands have remained under Russia's control since 1945,
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What happened?
This past month was a tough one for offshore rig companies. While drilling activity is starting to pick back up on land in North America, work offshore has yet to pick up. In the face of the backdrop, it's a little surprising to see that Seadrill Partners (NYSE: SDLP) saw gains of 17% in February while other rig comanies such as Ensco (NYSE: ESV) and Seadrill Partners' parent company Seadrill Limited (NYSE: SDRL) posted double digit losses.
How on earth can a subsidiary see its stock soar when its parent company looks to be in death throes?
So what?
The market moves in mysterious ways sometimes, and this is one of those times that is hard to crack in terms of why these stocks are moving the way that they are. Probably the best place to start is on Jan. 31st, when Seadrill announced that it was in the middle of major restructuring negotiations with its creditors and other stakeholders. Seadrill has a lot of debt due this year -- a little more than $3 billion -- and creditors are getting rather apprehensive on refinancing that debt since there isn't a whole lot of long term work out there for rigs. The company's goal with these negotiations are to extend the maturities of its current debt to beyond 2021, and to raise about $1 billion in new capital. Management even acknowledged that these deals would likely lead to significant shareholder dilution.
At the time of the announcement, shares of Seadrill hit the skids, but Seadrill Partners did surprisingly well. Why that happened is anyone's guess. Perhaps it's because Seadrill Partners' assets have decent contract coverage and the company has a better balance sheet, but the two companies are inextricably tied to one another based on the corporate structure, so one has to wonder what happens to Seadrill Partners if Seadrill were to get into real financial trouble.
It's also worth mentioning that both Seadrill and Ensco reported earnings at the end of the month. In both cases, it's hard to argue that either company was doing great. Sure, both are reporting positive net income and generating free cash flow from its existing contracts, but both companies are set to see some of its assets to roll off contract in the coming months that will put a further dent in their ability to generate cash to pay off debts. Ensco was quick to point out, though, that it had made two moves lately to shore up its balance sheet, almost as a way to say that it isn't in the same position as Seadrill today.
Now what?
Both Seadrill and Seadrill Partners admitted in their earnings releases and conference calls that the two are making contingency plans in the event that Seadrill can't come to favorable terms with its creditors. One of the contingencies mentioned was Chapter 11 bankruptcy, which scared the bejesus out of investors. Seadrill Partners came out and said that it is trying to detach itself financially from its parent as much as possible by not having the parent as a guarantor on some of its debts.
Whether any of these things happen remains to be seen, but we do know we are going to get a resolution relatively soon. Seadrill announced that it has until the end of April to complete its negotiations as that is when some of its major debts will come due. Anyone looking at Seadrill or Seadrill Partners because both stocks are so cheap should stay away until we get a resolution of these financial issues. Otherwise it would be taking a very risky bet.
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Tyler Crowe owns shares of Seadrill. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
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By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 03/06/2017
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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.
star Nick Viall has started his overnight fantasy suite dates, but there is still more to come on the 21st season.Nick, a 36-year-old former software salesman from Wisconsin, sent Corinne Olympios packing during a Rose Ceremony in Brooklyn, NY, after visiting her family in Miami, FL.Although Nick loved Corinne's aggressive, confident and fun nature, his relationships with the other women were simply stronger.With Corinne gone, three bachelorettes remain in the running for Nick's heart: Rachel Lindsay Vanessa Grimaldi and Raven Gates In the latest episode, Nick enjoyed his first fantasy suite date with Raven. The couple soaked in the beautiful snowy landscape via helicopter ride, drank and played darts with locals in a pub, and then watched the Northern Lights from inside a cozy little log cabin.During their fantasy suite date, Raven confessed to Nick she was in love with him, and her declaration of such love was one of the sweetest Nick has ever heard in his life.Nick's eyes welled up with tears when Raven was expressing her deepest feelings, so she thought he reciprocated them. Raven revealed to Nick she only had sex with one person in her life -- seemingly her ex-boyfriend of two years -- and never said, "I love you," to a man before, not to mention she's also never had an orgasm.Nick's bond with Raven appears strong, but he also has a connection with Rachel, who captured Nick's attention on Day 1 and won the First Impression Rose, and Vanessa, who was the first girl Nick really opened up to this season.Nick therefore has some very tough decisions to make when it comes to which woman could be his future wife and partner in life. Nick has said countless times he is taking this process very seriously and truly hopes it works out for him in the end. After all, Nick was rejected on two different seasons of ette and failed to fall in love with the girl he dated on Bachelor in Paradise, Jennifer Saviano Bachelor Nation is unsure whether Nick will fall deeply in love and/or proposes at the end of his journey on the show, but it's clear he's considering an engagement since he asked each woman's father for permission during the hometown dates.It's clear, however, Nick and Rachel do not end up together since ABC recently announced her as ette's Season 13 star . She confirmed that Nick "let her go" and she did not quit but it was "his loss."So when does Nick decide to eliminate Rachel, and who will be his Final 2 bachelorettes? And will Vanessa or Rachel be the last woman standing at the end of it all?Nick revealed in his People blog that he sends Rachel home after their overnight fantasy suite date in Finland. He called it his "hardest goodbye yet."And, according to Reality Steve spoiler blogger Steve Carbone, Nick rejects Raven in favor of Vanessa at the final Rose Ceremony. Vanessa therefore receives his final rose -- and a Neil Lane engagement ring!As for the current status of Nick and Vanessa's romance, Reality Steve claims they are still happily engaged. I guess Nick's fourth attempt at finding love on a reality dating series truly was the charm.Below is the list of bachelorettes who are still in the running for Nick's heart: Vanessa Grimaldi , a 29-year-old special education teacher from Montreal, Quebec, Canada Rachel Lindsay , a 31-year-old attorney from Dallas, TX Raven Gates , a 25-year-old fashion boutique owner from Hoxie, AR
Dividends and buybacks are both presented as ways that companies can reward their long-term shareholders for the risks they take in investing. Many times, companies will point to the combination of the two in terms like "total value delivered to shareholders." Often, to the extent a company's management will tout one over the other, it'll celebrate buybacks as being more tax efficient for shareholders, as those buybacks don't get taxed until the investor sells.
It's true that both dividends and buybacks can play a role in generating value for investors. Still, for investors who want to be long-term business owners, dividends are a much better idea. Even beyond the direct cash reward in your pocket, dividends drive management behaviors that are vastly more shareholder friendly than buybacks do, and that's why they're a better fit for long-term investors.
Dividends drive discipline
First and foremost, dividends drive discipline within a company. When a company declares a dividend, it has to come up with the cash to pay it. Shareholders can directly see whether their accounts receive the cash they're expecting. In addition, since most debt holders don't like the idea of financing a payment to somebody else, that cash typically has to come from the company's operations.
Contrast that with a buyback, where a company usually announces it in terms of an authorization to buy back up to however many shares or to spend up to however many millions on repurchases. As it's more of an optional behavior than a dividend, companies don't need nearly as much operational discipline to run a buyback program than they do to run a dividend.
Buybacks often cover up executive compensation
The theory behind a buyback is that it decreases the number of shares a company has outstanding, increasing the value of the remaining shares. In today's era of stock-option-based compensation, however, many buybacks do little more than "mop up" the extra shares created by that payment scheme. In essence, they can hide the true cost of paying for the company's management, rather than truly reward the company's outside shareholders.
Contrast that with a dividend, which must be paid on all outstanding shares of a company's stock. The more shares a company has outstanding, the bigger a check it has to write to cover a dividend. As a result, dividends can play a role in tamping down on that sort of options-based compensation.
Dividends remind management who's in charge
Shareholders are the owners of a company. Management -- including the CEO -- works for those owners. By paying a dividend, a company acknowledges that relationship and gives a choice to the owners on what to do with their money. Those owners can choose to reinvest the dividend in the same company, invest it elsewhere, or spend it.
On the flip side, a buyback takes that very key decision away from a company's owners and puts it in the hands of its management. With a buyback, the owner gets forced to choose between reinvesting the money in the same company or selling a portion of his or her ownership stake to raise cash.
Dividends signal what management is really thinking
Companies frequently not only pay dividends but also seek to increase them over time as their businesses grow. That helps turn them beyond mere cash payments and into strong signaling devices. For instance, if a company claims it will grow at a 10% clip but only raises its dividend by 2%, chances are there's substantial risk embedded in that 10% growth projection.
Similarly, if a company with a long track record of dividend increases suddenly holds its dividend static, that's a sign things may not be as rosy as its management may want you to believe. Conversely, if a company increases its dividend faster than its earnings can support, that's a signal, too -- and one that becomes visible by looking at its payout ratio as a sign of how well that dividend is covered.
Because companies want to prevent front-running with their buybacks, those buybacks don't provide nearly as much visibility as dividends do, making them that much less valuable as signaling devices.
Buybacks only make sense when a company's stock is undervalued
From an investment perspective, a buyback represents an investment by a company in its own shares, rather than an investment in growing its underlying business. That investment only makes sense if those shares are substantially undervalued. Unfortunately, when a company's shares are undervalued, it often means there has been a misstep or crisis that knocked those shares down. And that frequently causes a company to cut back its buyback efforts to focus on recovering from the stumble.
If a company's shares are overvalued rather than undervalued, a buyback actually destroys shareholder value. After all, that cash could have been put to use on a more productive project, and those overpriced shares could have been used as an acquisition currency for another business.
Dividends, on the other hand can make sense whenever a company is making money. After all, once it's paid, a dividend provides the shareholder with option whether to buy more, buy something else, or spend the cash.
Think like an owner -- and look for dividends
On the surface, buybacks and dividends can both look like rewards to shareholders for the financial risks they're taking for owning stock in a company. Once you dig beneath the surface, however, it quickly becomes clear that dividends represent the more owner-friendly choice for how to reward shareholders. And that's something all investors should consider when looking for companies that are worth owning for the long haul.
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Porterville, CA (93257)
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Dissing rivals is not going to cut much ice with today's millennials who don't think what is "free" is any worse than what is paid for, says Ambi Parameswaran.
Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff.com
A friend pointed out a series of ads rolled out by Idea Cellular for their premium 4G service.
In one of the ads a young man parks his car in a "Free Parking" area only to see his car being towed away.
In another two girls are chatting and surfing, as young consumers are wont to these days. While the girl on Idea 4G has uninterrupted network, the girl on the "Free G" has a poor connection and gets ribbed by her "Premium 4G" friend.
Both ads end with the message "No Free G. Only Idea 4G".
The message was very clear. The brand was trying to sell its superior features by attacking a competitor who was giving "Free Network". But there was a question that lingered: Just because something is "free" is it always inferior to something that I paid for?
Let us turn to the book Free by Chris Anderson, who also wrote the eminently readable Long Tail.
Anderson explains that in the 21st century "free" is more than a promotional gimmick; it is essential to a company's future. The term "freemium" was coined to explain the process by which a brand offers a free version of a product only to get the consumer to upgrade to a premium variant later.
Coming to today's consumers, do they really think something "free" is really that inferior?
Maybe not, because most of the stuff they do on the net is free. Consumers also know that when something is "free" it may not really be "free".
So, they tolerate the Google Ad Word-sponsored ads. Not only do they tolerate sponsored ads on their Facebook page, they often share it with their friends (there are special tools that help a brand increase this "organic" sharing of ad messages).
They also know that if they made a trip to Vijayawada by SpiceJet, they are bound to get reminded by SpiceJet on their Facebook page to fly SpiceJet again. They at times wonder how it happened, but they tolerate it, without a murmur.
So on many levels attacking a competitor just because they are "free" may not cut ice with consumers. Consumers know what is "free" today may not be "free" tomorrow (sampling is an age-old marketing device).
They also know that something "free" today remains "free" tomorrow, they will have to give something in return, just as they've done with Google and Facebook.
I was also a little surprised that the brand, which has done some stellar ads through their long-serving agency partner, didn't pick something from what the agency had done for another upstart brand two decades ago.
I am referring to the Captain Cook Salt ad. Captain Cook Salt featured a satisfied consumer of their competitor (who was unnamed as in this case), and she was taken through a demo of Captain Cook Salt's free-flow benefits, and was made to eat humble pie, with a touch of excess salt.
That ad too didn't name the rival, but it dissed the competitor so elegantly that it will go down as one of the best "competitive" ads made in India.
The Captain Cook commercial used a tried and tested method of advertising, a product demo but dialled it up by using an interesting disbelieving character to tell the story.
This brings me back to the Idea 4G commercials.
They did not have to look far for inspiration. And they could have made the story a lot more charming and much less ham-handed. Instead of dissing all that is "free" they could have delved deeper to build an interesting story around their better service, if it is really that better.
Instead they seem to have taken a short-cut to say all that is "free" is inferior. That is not going to cut much ice with today's millennials who don't think what is "free" is any worse than what is paid for.
Malcolm Frank, executive vice-president, strategy and marketing, Cognizant, in conversation with Shivani Shinde Nadhe & Ayan Pramanik.
IMAGE: According to Malcolm Frank, if the immigration system needs to be cleaned up it should be, "b ut to say that the fundamental structure of this (IT) industry is under question will not be correct." Photograph: Vivek Prakash/Reuters .
Malcolm Frank (pictured below), executive vice-president, strategy and marketing, Cognizant, believes shareholder activism that the industry has seen in recent times is a result of the drastic changes in the sector and its impact on business.
In this interview he speaks about the reasons for this, and also acquisitions, automation and US regulatory changes.
Edited excerpts:
At a time when the sector is seeing tech disruptions, we also see instances of shareholder activism. Cognizant, too, had a similar experience last year. Why do you think shareholders are getting into the activist avatar?
Our industry has enjoyed a 15-year window, where the business model was clear, the human angle was clear and value proposition was understood. We were just competing around the edges.
For Cognizant, 10 years back, we had a two-in-a-box strategy: We built industry expertise and we focused more on the US. And, there were just 5 per cent changes to the basic model. It was successful for us and for the industry.
But now, we are in another world, which is both interesting and challenging. There are opportunities up for grabs.
So, if you are in the services sector, you have to balance your investors, employees and customers. I think these three were relatively stable till now.
There are now new questions.
How do we build the pyramid?
What is the culture we want to build within the company?
How quickly and hard should I push the culture?
When the investors see these changes, they ask questions on governance, on margins, and growth. There is an attempt to balance these things.
I think the transition will increase.
Will the noise increase? That will depend on the management teams, and how well they figure this out.
At Cognizant, managing the shareholders was peaceful. The board and the management have incorporated almost everything they suggested.
Any situation with a shade of activism or what some of our competitors are going through occurs because of the paucity of time. There is a six- to 12-month window to resolve an issue. I wouldn't give up on the future of a company five or 10 years down the line to make the problems of 2017 go away.
What happened with Elliott [Management Corp] was this: We had a strategy process called Cognizant 2020 for some time now. We rolled out some of that in summer last year; we are rolling out some now. Elliott wanted to know what was going to be implemented.
Cognizant has spoken about striking a balance between investments on acquisitions and capital return from its $5-billion cash pile as part of the Cognizant 2020 strategy. Tell us more about it.
This is part of the strategy process.
We are sitting on a large cash pile. Our M&A (mergers and acquisitions) philosophy has not changed. We acquire for capability, not capacity. We have a String of Pearls strategy.
We have set our eyes on a couple of scale acquisitions over the next five years, such as TriZetto. We would also look at small, digitally focused firms we can afford to acquire.
If you do go for scale acquisition what gaps are you trying to fill?
We are thrilled with TriZetto. We would like to find such platforms to get a flavour of other sectors. But these are far and few.
Do you expect dilution of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act or strict H-1B visa norms in the US to impact your overall performance?
I do not know.
The visa issue has been there for 15 years. We have contingency plans.
If you read [US President Donald Trump's proposed] executive order, the situation might seem worse than it actually is. If it comes out, the situation might change.
We are focusing on things we can control such as hiring in the US, delivery centres etc.
Is it time for the industry to relook at its delivery system, especially with the regulatory changes in sight?
I do not think so.
What India has delivered to the world is nothing short of extraordinary. I equate this phenomenon to the high fashion, which has its base in northern Italy.
That said, does the immigration system need to be cleaned up? If yes, it should be.
But to say that the fundamental structure of this industry is under question will not be correct.
Chinese government was expected to start sales from its cotton reserves on March 6
Indias cotton exports are likely to decline by 20 per cent this year, following the Chinese governments decision to auction its own fibre stock.
Indian exporters will thus not be able to reap the benefit of high international prices. Exports estimated to be 5.5 million bales against last years 6.9 million, according to industry estimates.
The Washington-based International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) said the Chinese government was expected to start sales from its cotton reserves on March 6 and would continue offering 30,000 tonnes a day until August.
Last year, around 2.6 million tonnes were sold through the end of September. Assuming a similar volume is sold this year, the total volume held by the Chinese government will reach six million tonnes by the end of 2016-17.
Chinas total stocks, including those in the private sector, are forecast to reach nine million tonnes at the end of 2016-17, accounting for 53 per cent of world stocks, it added.
This will definitely hit cotton demand from India as Chinese buyers have been active over the last few years. Indian exporters are cancelling orders due to higher realisation in domestic sales, said Darshini Kansara, research analyst, Care Ratings.
Trade sources estimate Indian exporters have so far registered for 4.2 million bales (0.71 million tonnes, of which 3.7 million bales have already been shipped.
The Cotton Advisory Board under the textiles ministry estimated in October Indias total cotton exports would be 5 million bales (0.85 million tonnes) this year as against 6.9 million bales (1.17 million tonnes) last year.
Exports will not surpass 5.5 million bales (0.94 million tonnes) this year, said Arun Dalal, an Ahmedabad-based cotton exporter.
Despite a cotton acreage 9.6 per cent less than the previous year, better yields in major cotton growing states have resulted in higher output estimates. Indias cotton production in 2016-17 is estimated to reach 32.51 million bales (5.53 million tonnes), up from 30.01 million bales (5.10 million tonnes) a year ago.
The global market balance is going to remain tight which could keep prices elevated. If cotton prices decline, imports will go up. But, Chinas auction may cause prices in the global market to decline, said Arun Sakseria, a trader.
Photograph: Reuters
Investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala and his familys net worth in listed companies surges in the recent bull run.
Ace investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala and his familys net worth in listed companies crossed Rs 10,000-crore, thanks to a sharp rally in some stocks in their portfolio such as Titan Company, Aptech, Dewan Housing Finance Corporation (DHFL), Edelweiss Financial Services, Federal Bank and Escorts.
The combined net worth of Jhunjhunwala and his family came in at Rs 10,550 crore, based on market prices on the BSE as of Thursday. The figures are based on the familys holdings in companies in which its stake is more than one per cent for the quarter ended December 31, 2016.
As of December 31, 2016, Jhunjhunwala and his family's net worth stood at Rs 9,156 crore. On March 4, 2015, the day the BSE Sensex hit an all-time high in intra-day trade, it was Rs 8,620 crore (based on the March 31, 2015, shareholding pattern), the Capitaline Plus data show.
Since March 2015, Jhunjhunwala and his family added Tata Motors DVRs (3.43 per cent), Federal Bank (2.3 per cent) and Mandhana Retail (12.74 per cent) in their portfolio, while increasing their holdings in Aptech and Escorts.
The recent bull run in the broader market has boosted Jhunjhunwala and familys net worth more than the market capitalisation of DHFL, Century Textiles, Thermax, Strides Shasun, Dish TV and Union Bank of India.
Thus far, in calendar year 2017, the market value of listed companies in Jhunjhunwala and his familys portfolio appreciated by an average 15 per cent, as compared to an eight per cent rise in the S&P BSE Sensex.
"The secret of success for investors like Jhunjhunwala and Radhakishan Damani of D-Mart is that they could spot potential multi-baggers early and held on to the stocks for a longer duration than most investors would. This strategy does create a lot of wealth over time, unlike trying to make a quick buck by doing intra-day trading," explains G Chokkalingam, founder and managing director, Equinomics Research & Advisory.
Some stocks in Jhunjhunwalas portfolio, such as DHFL, Escorts, Federal Bank and Titan Company, are quoting at their respective record highs or close to lifetime highs. All these stocks have rallied in the range of 30-60 per cent since January.
The family holds equity shares of more than Rs 200 crore in each of these companies, according to the latest shareholding data.
In calendar year 2016 (CY16), Jhunjhunwala purchased 2.81 million equity shares of The Mandhana Retail Ventures via an off-market transaction. The shares amounted to 12.74 per cent of the total issued and paid-up capital of the company.
For a noble cause
Given that most analysts expect the markets to reach new highs, the ace investors wealth is likely to grow.
Even then, Jhunjhunwala remains benevolent and pledged last year to donate Rs 5,000 crore or 25 per cent, whichever was lower, of his portfolio on July 5, 2020, the day he turns 60.
According to reports, he supports a number of organisations such as Olympic Gold Quest, Arpan, Agastya and Friends of Tribal Societies, an organisation of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. The outfit goes to tribal villages and imparts education and health care.
Photograph: Vivek Prakash/Reuters.
From the perspective of an American worker who is being displaced it does not make a difference whether he is displaced by a visa-dependent company or a non-visa-dependent company or a 50-50 company or whatever: Nasscom president.
The debate in the US over H-1B visas has become a political and emotive issue as there is a "yawning gap" between the facts and perception, IT industry body Nasscom has said, contending that Indian IT firms contribute immensely to the US economy and jobs creation.
"This narrative has been going on for a while now that Indian IT workers come to the US and that they take away jobs, that in general they simply displace American workers and that these are low-paid, not even necessarily high-skilled people who are actually taking away jobs from better paid and skilled American workers," Nasscom president R Chandrashekhar told PTI.
Chandrashekhar was in Washington this week leading a delegation of IT industry body to engage with members of the new US administration on issues like clampdown on work visas and flow of skilled manpower between the two nations.
"That's really the kind of narrative which has got built up, sort of anecdotal examples are being cited, which also are not necessarily accurate. Because it has been presented with a mix of emotive anecdotal stories, I think a counter narrative and facts have really not been recognised. If you look at the facts, then the facts actually tell you a very, very different story," he said.
He said, "The data, not just our data, but the US governments own data also tells a very, very different story."
Chandrashekhar met a number of influential American lawmakers, opinion builders, members of think-tank community and the officials from the new Trump Administration and interacted with them on the H-1B visa issues.
The visit of the Nasscom delegation came in the wake of the ongoing debate in the US and reported moves by the Trump Administration to bring out an executive order to curtail the use of H-1B visas, widely used by Indian IT majors.
"The purpose is to put across our point of view so that a more balanced approach is enabled," he noted.
Chandrashekhar said the Indian IT industry actually contributes immensely to the US economy in terms of jobs that are created in America, both directly and indirectly.
"Close to half a million jobs have been supported in the US as of 2015. The number of jobs have also been growing at 10 per cent per year as against a two per cent growth in the rest of the job market," he said.
"The biggest contribution to jobs, of course, is what the industry provides in terms of services to US corporates, 75 per cent of the Fortune 500 companies, which enable them to be more productive, more efficient, and more globally competitive, and thereby helps them to be the job creation engine in the US," the Nasscom president said.
The Nasscom president argued that the services that the IT industry provides in the US actually create a lot of jobs.
"This in fact, aligns extremely well with President Trump's objective of having more jobs in the US. That's why the need to make this counter narrative well understood," he said.
"There is misperception that American workers and qualified American workers are being displaced by the recourse to a couple of anecdotal stories, whereas the reality is that there are 2.4 million jobs, which are unfilled in the US because they require STEM-qualified workers, and they simply arent available," he said.
By 2018, the projection is that the number will touch 3.4 million, and half of them will be computer and IT related areas, he observed, adding that the unemployment rate among STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) workers for computer and IT related skills is around two per cent.
"It is well known and recognised by all experts that anything under four per cent indicates a shortage. If it is around two per cent, then that indicates the extent of shortage. This myth that there are qualified people who are being deprived of a job is far from the truth," he asserted.
"The third aspect is, if you look at even the American universities, which are the source of skilled workers going forward, more than 70 per cent of the students in the STEM programmes are international students. Even if you wanted to hire from American universities, you'll still need a visa to hire those skill sets.
"These are the facts, and those are the perceptions. The gap between the two is wide, it's a yawning gap between the facts and the perceptions," said the top Indian IT leader.
In developed economies especially those experiencing slower growth, a certain level of unemployment among unskilled people, and at the same time, a shortage of skilled workers, he said is a "political dynamite".
"Because you are dealing with a shortage in one part and unemployment in another part of your workforce, and it requires extremely sagacious leadership to actually be able to formulate a more open-minded, balanced, far-sighted and pragmatic approach in dealing with this issue and differentiating between these two," he noted.
"From the perspective of an American worker who is being displaced it does not make a difference whether he is displaced by a visa-dependent company or a non-visa-dependent company or a 50-50 company or whatever.
"Why would such a provision, which is ostensibly to protect American workers be applied based on a definition which ultimately only singles out Indian companies. I think the argument is that this is not correct, and this is not even protecting American workers," Chandrashekhar said.
"I would argue that if the American workers are to be protected, then please protect them fully. Dont protect them by closing a side door and leaving the front door open," he said.
While it was technically not possible to block the deal, the tax department could resort to arm-twisting.
Image: A Vodafone store in central London. Photograph: Alessia Pierdomenico/Reuters.
Vodafone Plcs Rs 14,000-crore tax dispute with the government remains a key risk in the merger of its Indian subsidiary with Idea Cellular.
The British telecom company had sought advice on how to deal with the retrospective tax in case it went ahead with the merger, tax experts said.
Apart from breaching revenue, subscriber and spectrum caps in a few circles, Vodafones unresolved tax issues are a risk in the transaction. Who will control the merged entity could be another deal breaker, said a tax lawyer.
Vodafone Plc has sought clarity on the past tax issues so that these should not cloud the merger process, the lawyer added.
The case pertains to a Rs 7,990 crore demand raised by the government on Vodafone International Holdings for failing to deduct tax on capital gains made during its acquisition of a 67 per cent stake in Hutchison Essar.
Vodafone did not pay the tax because it was an offshore deal. However, the government argues Vodafone is liable because the deal involved transfer of an underlying Indian asset.
The total tax demand stands at Rs 14,300 crore, which includes interest and penalty.
After the Vodafone case, the government made it mandatory for every merger and acquisition transaction to seek approval from the income tax department.
In the Budget for 2016-17, the government had announced a scheme to settle retrospective tax disputes by waiving interest and penalty if companies paid the tax demand.
The scheme opened on June 1 and closed on December 31 last year. Vodafone did not take the option and is pursuing international arbitration against the tax demand.
"The merger is between Vodafone India and Idea Cellular, while the international arbitration case involves Vodafone International. These are different legal entities, so the tax case should not have any bearing on the merger. There is no ground for the tax department to raise an objection to the deal, said an income-tax department official.
The merger will also result in Vodafones stake falling below 51 per cent as both Idea and Vodafone are expected to have equal shareholdings in the merged company. The two companies are also seeking an investment partner.
Another tax expert pointed out that while it was technically not possible to block the deal, the tax department could resort to arm-twisting.
Rahul Garg, leader, direct taxes, PwC, said the arbitration would have no bearing on the merger as it did not pertain to the merging entities.
Merger may wipe off 10-15% jobs in telecom
The spate of consolidation in the telecom sector could lead to job redundancies 10-15 per cent over the next two years, say analysts and HR experts.
The three mergers in the works -- RCom-Aircel, Vodafone-Idea and Airtel-Telenor -- if they go through regulatory and operational hurdles, are likely to create capex synergies across networks, rationalise selling and marketing expenses of the players and reduce overall manpower costs for the industry.
One of seven jobs in the sector is under threat. Most impacted will be jobs connected with sales and distribution and those in the infrastructure services space, said the head of an executive search firm, who is advising one of the large players on the HR front.
According to Randstad India managing director and CEO Moorthy K Uppaluri, the Indian telecom industry employs around two million people directly and indirectly.
While the consolidation initiatives will spur growth in the industry in the long term, there will be optimisation across frontline sales and support functions such as finance, HR and other corporate roles.
Overall, close to 20-40 per cent of support function roles are expected to be at risk as consolidation plays out, which is in the next 12-20 months, he said.
Tanu Sharma, associate director, India Ratings and Research, said hiring sentiment for the sector is likely to take a hit.
However, any cut in jobs is likely to play out only over the next two years.
For most large players, employee salaries are anywhere from four-five per cent of their sales revenue. With consolidation, employee costs are expected to come down.
HR experts said consolidation among telecom players will have a ripple effect on the entire sector and allied system.
This is because the ratio of direct to indirect jobs in the telecom sector is estimated to be around 1:4. That is, every direct job leads to creation of four jobs in the indirect and tertiary sectors, says a management consultant from one of the Big Four advisory firms, which has several telecom clients.
K Sudarshan, managing partner, EMA Partners International, an executive search firm, said when a sector goes through consolidation generally it is those in middle management who face most of the squeeze.
But telecom experts said the current round of consolidation will face several regulatory and operational challenges before going through.
It may be early days yet before realising the full impact of these initiatives, said a management consultant.
-- Sudipto Dey
When it vanishes as a national force (meaning when it can no longer get sufficient votes to hold onto its symbol, the hand), it will not have been the first large Indian party to die, says Aakar Patel.
How do political parties die?
It is interesting to look at this as we observe the long and slow death of the Congress. India's oldest party was formed 132 years ago and has been out of power for only three years.
But it is clear that as a national force it is comatose if not dead. Its brand is severely damaged and carries very little that is positive. And it has no real political message for its small base of voters.
When it vanishes as a national force (meaning when it can no longer get sufficient votes to hold onto its symbol, the hand), it will not have been the first large Indian party to die.
The All India Muslim League died because it ran out a reason to exist. The party was set up in the early 20th century to secure the political rights of Muslims and to engage with the colonial power.
It tried and failed to negotiate an arrangement to share power with the Congress (which was seen by many Muslims as a Hindu party, just as the BJP is seen today).
The partition of India came because of the failure to reach an agreement and in India the Muslim League more or less vanished. It went because the party's brand was associated with Partition.
For many years a single MP represented the party under the Indian Union Muslim League name. Though he was repeatedly elected from Kerala, this man, GM Banatwala, was a Gujarati.
In Pakistan, the Muslim League held power for a decade after Partition under various prime ministers. The party's primary platform, the two-nation theory, did not remain relevant in a mostly Muslim nation.
Its two biggest leaders died soon after the creation of the country. Governor General Jinnah died of tuberculosis on September 11, 1948, and prime minister Liaquat Ali Khan was murdered at a public event on October 16, 1951.
When General Ayub Khan seized power a few years later, the party Jinnah had led split and formed the Convention Muslim League. This was the first of many versions of the party in Pakistan. This tradition of the party breaking and reforming itself in support of a military ruler continued over the decades.
General Zia ul Haq's prime minister Muhammad Khan Junejo formed the Muslim League (J) and General Musharraf was supported by the Muslim League (Q). The party in power today, the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) was also formed in the period of Zia.
In India, the Congress remained more or less unified at the national level. The one big split in it happened after Lal Bahadur Shastri died and Indira Gandhi took power. The old men who were Nehru's colleagues formed their own Congress but Indira was strong and captured the organisation because of her charisma and popularity.
The Janata Party which defeated Indira Gandhi was a patchwork coalition of regional parties. The Janata Party was socialist and anti-Congress in its ideology.
It was formed during the Emergency and lost relevance soon after. Its constituents tried to keep the anti Congressism alive through the Janata Dal but that was an insufficient glue and it fractured into south and north versions of the party.
Lal Krishna Advani changed Indian politics with the Ram Janambhoomi movement. The anti Congress impulse of the Janata Party's fragments became an anti Hindutva impulse. This was because they feared the BJP and what it stood for and by now, under Rajiv Gandhi, the Congress stopped standing for anything much.
It did not have any real ideology and this continued under P V Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh.
The Congress has lost power in Delhi because it has been squeezed out of states. Its decade in power from 2004-2014 hid some facts.
In large parts of north India it is in permanent opposition. It has not won an election in Gujarat for three decades. In many other large states, where the BJP is either ruling or in opposition, the Congress is fourth or fifth, meaning it is irrelevant.
In the south, it is losing ground to the BJP faster than it thinks and Hindutva continues its patient and relentless march in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Competent Congress leaders in the regions long ago saw the death coming. Some of them successfully captured the party organisation, like Mamata Banerjee in Bengal. Others like Sharad Pawar in Maharashtra were less successful. But even he has no reason to merge his party back into the Congress because the brand is tainted.
As was observed earlier, it does not stand for anything. Reports say the recent hammering the Congress got in Maharashtra's local elections came after candidates got no financial support from the party.
This is a dangerous sign but it is unlikely to be heeded. The party will bumble along because being family-owned, there is no accountability.
It is possible that the Congress may be revived under another leader. But Rahul Gandhi is not an old man. He has a few more decades of activity ahead of him. This will work to the disadvantage of his party as it fades nationally into irrelevance.
Aakar Patel is Executive Director, Amnesty International India. The views expressed here are his own.
You can read Aakar's earlier columns here.
Image: Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka Gandhi at an election rally. Photograph: Nand Kumar/PTI Photo.
Distressing as the first month of the Donald Trump administration -- with its missteps on matters of governance, ethics and protocol -- has been, it has been a comic opera of buffoons by comparison to the horrors that await us, fears Rahul Jacob.
IMAGE: Albeit trivial in terms of the big picture, photographs of Kellyanne Conway, counselor to US President Donald Trump, perched on an Oval Office sofa, is the latest in the list of White House missteps under the Trump administration. Photograph: Aude Guerrucci-Pool/Getty Images.
With all the incompetence, nepotism and arrogance on display in the tumultuous four weeks that already feel like four years since Donald Trump arrived at the White House, it is hard to pick one instance that is emblematic of how out of his depth the man is.
The resignation of his national security advisor for not disclosing the details of calls to the Russian ambassador ranks right up there, especially since Trump blamed the media for treating Michael Flynn unfairly. Many in Congress are seeking a wider investigation.
There is also the matter of the broadside by Trump against the department store Nordstrom for dropping Ivanka Trump's clothing line because it was selling poorly.
Trump tweeted that Ivanka 'has been treated so unfairly by @Nordstrom. She is always pushing me to do the right thing!'
Meanwhile, Trump's aides have been instructed to schedule as many televised events as possible from the Oval Office because Trump enjoys being seen there.
His daughter kicked up a storm of criticism after circulating a photograph of herself seated in the president's chair in the Oval Office between her father and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. 'A great discussion with two world leaders about the importance of women having a seat at the table,' tweeted Ivanka Trump.
I interviewed Ivanka onstage for an hour at a conference in Hong Kong five years ago and can report that she is not short on self-esteem, starting with the opening line of her book: 'In business, as in life, nothing is ever handed to you.'
Amid all these missteps on matters of governance, ethics and protocol, I cannot help adding the problem of Trump's ties.
The president cannot tie a tie properly. He leaves the broad end of his tie dangling well past his belt and the narrow bit unable to reach the loop on the inside of the tie. To keep things neat, Trump resorts to using cellotape to hold it in place.
This is an utterly trivial detail at one level, but also in a way disproves that Trump is capable of adapting to being in the White House.
Next, we will be discovering someone ties his shoelaces for him.
No matter: As Trump said in his press conference, this administration is running like a 'fine-tuned machine.'
If you can believe that, you can believe anything.
Apparently, his American supporters, who we must remember are a minority, do.
What amazes me, though, is how many fans he has in India.
Home Minister Rajnath Singh told a crowd in Uttar Pradesh that Trump had been elected because he said he would follow Prime Minister Narendra Modi's economic policies.
A Mumbai friend put out a video in support of him with this extraordinary plea: 'Please understand, he is radically different and unlike all the ex MIDDLE (OF THE) ROAD presidents. The country is up shit. He is trying to do something! Please give him a CHANCE.'
As the Americans say when mystified by the incomprehensible, 'Go figure.'
For starters, I would never have described the war-mongering Bush administration as middle of the road. But perhaps this unquestioning Indian support for him is not that puzzling.
Many of us believe the best answer for this unwieldy, 'functioning anarchy' of a country is a strong man -- or woman.
The crowds at Indira Gandhi's memorial far outnumber those at her father's.
The support for Modi's demonetisation was often couched in similar language: at least the prime minister was doing something.
Our middle class and our elites have a tendency to simultaneously look up to the US -- and envy it and put it down at the same time.
Travelling between Mumbai and New York, as the friend who wrote the email does often, it would take a pretty feverish imagination to conclude that it is the US that is in deep trouble.
New York's public spaces such as the High Line and downtown near the Staten Island ferry are being innovatively expanded and made greener every year. The subway system is better than I recall it while traffic-choked Mumbai, for all its laid-back charm, looks like it is coming apart at the seams.
Ultimately, distressing as the first month of the Trump administration has been, it has been a comic opera of buffoons by comparison to the horrors that await us.
It is apparent that the frightening Stephen Bannon, Trump's chief strategist, is actually in charge.
Trump's weak grasp of policy and constitutional proprieties is further weakened by his impatience for memoranda on affairs of state that are longer than a page. Yet, he reportedly thumbed through a book with 17 window-draping options for the Oval Office.
His administration is packed with Goldman Sachs alumni, who are likely to strip the US' financial regulations, reducing rather than increasing capital requirements for large banks -- making another Lehman-styled financial crisis and another taxpayer bailout more likely.
As for the risk of stumbling into a war, as Barack Obama said at his last speech before this fateful election in November, would you entrust the nuclear launch codes to a man whose campaign team felt the need to keep him away from his beloved Twitter account for a few days before the election?
The Congress or Kejriwal may be corrupt but at least you will not be thrashed black and blue. Your children will not be threatened by those regimes.
Journalists jobs are less secure today. So they are more scared about challenging what they are told to do and what not to do.
If the Aurangzeb road memory is valid, then the memory of the 2002 Gujarat riots is also valid.
IMAGE: Journalist-turned-activist Teesta Setalvad. Photograph: PTI Photo.
Journalist-turned-activist Teesta Setalvad, in her new book Foot Soldier of the Constitution: A Memoir, speaks of the rise of communalism and the aftermath of the 2002 Gujarat riots and as is to be expected of her, pulls no punches when it comes to her bete noire, Narendra Modi.
An excerpt: The chain of circumstances and the details of evidence, post Godhra, establish that the Chief Minister, Narendra Modi, and his cabinet colleagues had conspired, planned, prepared, organised and perpetrated multifarious crimes against the Muslim minority by causing and contriving to mobilise armed anti-Muslim mobs.
In an interview with Rediff.coms Syed Firdaus Ashraf, Setalvad discusses her book, the various court cases filed against her and the state of secularism in the country.
Why did you think of writing this book? What was the idea behind it?
At many levels, one is seeing a complete submergence of the narrative in terms of communalism, in terms of its impact on State and society. A lot of that has got to do with the regime of today.
Whenever there is a popular regional option the BJP-RSS have been defeated. Maharashtra is a story of the Congress abdicating itself.
Somehow we are not able to rationally link up how damaging this onset of communalism at the state level, society level is and that it has a lineage and history. What we are seeing today has not happened overnight.
For example, what the gau-rakshaks did in Dadri and Una didnt begin just now. It began in Gujarat somewhere in 1997-2002. Even before 2002, you saw the signs of this but we all collectively ignored it.
One of the main reasons (behind my book) was to bring in the written narrative, which is not only linear, of how communalism has deepened and caught a real stranglehold on Indian democracy.
-- 'Gau rakshaks are systematically targeting Dalits, Muslims'
Despite all that is said and written, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is ruling at the Centre and the Bharatiya Janata Party is winning almost every election in the country.
The BJP is not winning every state. Let me correct you. In 2014 they won the Lok Sabha elections; it was a dramatic victory and one cannot run away from it. They got a majority.
Within six months of that Arvind Kejriwal won in Delhi. Within 18 months of the Lok Sabha elections, Lalu Yadav and Nitish Kumar won the Bihar elections.
We will know what will happen in another five states on March 11.
It is true that in Maharashtra they have swept the local elections, but it is also true that these local elections have never got so much media coverage before. We must cover local elections as much we are doing now but we should not do so only when the BJP is coming to power.
Why am I saying this?
If you look at the same pattern in Rajasthan which is ruled by Vasundhara Raje, the BJP chief minister of Rajasthan, all the local elections are being won by the Congress party, but it is not getting any national media coverage.
Do you the feel the media has become pro-Modi?
I think the media is corporatised. A large section of it is, but I am not saying every bit of it. A handful of corporate entities own the media and journalists jobs are less secure today. So they are more scared about challenging what they are told to do and what not to do.
Earlier it was easier for us to challenge because we were secure in our job. We were not told to get out.
And, I think the media has become very lazy. It is not doing its homework and it is not moving into the field.
IMAGE: Setalvad believes that journalists today are scared to challenge the regime as their jobs are not secure.
You are saying the media has become lazy, but a minister in the Modi government labelled the media as "presstitutes", and his supporters target the media for what they call its secular bias.
They want to make you even more scared, to be unable to challenge them.
See the response to Trump. Let me ask you a question. Criticism against Trump is across the board, sustained opposition on the streets, by the media, but why are we not able to do it here?
The tactic of any proto fascist force is to constantly attack.
If they have Rajdeep Sardesai or Barkha Dutt who among the spectrum are fair with all the limitations that they face, they will badger those people to ensure that they become defensive about it.
The Congress or Kejriwal may be corrupt but at least you will not be thrashed black and blue. Your children will not be threatened by those regimes.
If you remember, (journalist) Rahul Kanwal was doing a story on saffron terror in India Today and the entire office was attacked by the RSS and Bajrang Dal (external link).
They show they are anti-democratic and cannot tolerate dissent. They get away with it because the law and order agencies dont act. Even what the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad did last week in Delhi, the police was just watching it.
Since you speak of the incidents at Delhi's Ramjas college, do you think the police is upholding secular values?
We have to fight to reclaim it, that is what the book tries to appeal. So much space has been eroded, so much space has been lost. The citizens of India have to do it themselves.
We have to reclaim this space or we will become another Pakistan, Turkey or America under Trump.
See the response to Trump. Let me ask you a question. Criticism against Trump is across the board, sustained opposition on the streets, by the media, but why are we not able to do it here?
What is your opinion about it?
That is what this book addresses. Somehow we have to be courageous enough and bring out the collective conscience to do what the people in America are doing.
Maybe the people think what Modi is doing is right, therefore they are not coming out on the streets?
Thirty one per cent certainly do (the percentage of votes Prime Minister Narendra Modi won in the 2014 elections).
We have to fight to reclaim it (secularism). We have to reclaim this space or we will become another Pakistan, Turkey or America under Trump.
During the book release lecture you mentioned that the courts back-pedalled many times on communal issues.
One of my most painful experiences was about the 1992-93 Bombay riots. Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray was openly challenging the rule of law and courts. He gave a statement to Sanjh Jansatta newspaper. I still have a copy of that tabloid. If you or I had said what he has said in it about court judgments, contempt cases would have been slapped on us.
So my wider question was, when there is an open challenge to the judiciary, why have the courts been silent?
-- EXCLUSIVE! The Teesta Setalvad Interview: 'The DNA of this country will re-emerge!'
It is now 15 years since the Godhra train burning and the riots it set off. You also mentioned that there is a complete shutdown of memory.
I am going to write a piece on how much the media will actually remember February 27 and 28 and the riots that followed in 2002.
On the 10th anniversary of the tragedy, I remember, there were several articles and packages on television.
I dont know what is going to happen this time because of the regime in New Delhi today. Many sects of Indians are functioning under a kind of self-censorship.
Do we talk about this or not talk about this? Is this a wise idea to talk about this?
During your lecture, you said memory cannot be allowed to lapse. Why are we thinking of the past all the time? The Godhra incident happened in the past. Why cant we move on?
People are moving on. The point is, if for instance we can have a debate conducted in the political class which the media doesnt question, on why Delhi's Aurangzeb Road needs to go or why Tipu Sultan road needs to go, is that not revisiting a memory of a certain kind?
We have in very powerful positions chhotey dil aur chhotey dimaag ke log who have made a single point agenda, to try and target a few individuals and organisations.
You say you want it to go because you claim that they perpetrated some acts of injustice on a section of Indians.
But this is far more recent, right? If the Aurangzeb road memory is valid, then the memory of the Gujarat 2002 riots is also valid.
This is more valid because it is more recent.
My point is that you may have three-four sets of memories. In a democratic society, you have to allow that to play for some reconciliation and dialogue.
My real question after the 1992-93 Mumbai riots was that we did not allow real catharsis after Partition. In India, our textbooks clamped down on this. In society, nobody discussed it.
So it was not a coincidence for me to see that after the bloodshed of the 1992-93 riots, a spate of books came out to do with Partition. People realised it was wrong.
As a result of this, you had three sets of Indians believing in three sets of reality depending on where they were located geographically after 1947.
The Sikhs in Punjab were most brutally affected by the Muslims of Pakistan. They hate Muslims for that reason.
In Bengal, Hindus who came from East Pakistan suffered at the hands of Muslims but in Bihar, Muslims suffered at the hands of Hindus.
All these three communities have memories of that but there has never been a possibility of all of them coming together and saying that yes, we all three suffered, the suffering and hardship and the violence that came out of communal ideology, that can happen in any section which makes a demon and enemy out of another.
And by not doing this, you have a situation of everybody looking through the prism of their memory and never having a holistic memory of what Partition was.
IMAGE: The cover of Teesta Setalvad's new book.
Retrospectively, do you feel what Mohammed Ali Jinnah said back in 1947 about Hindutva was right?
Jinnah had a very short-sighted view of politics and he was a self-serving politician. He was a politician who was extremely secular in his behaviour and his outlook, but he used very communal language among the maulanas to whip up frenzy, which was extremely unhealthy so I would not say Jinnah was right about anything.
I think the parallel growth of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Hindu Mahasabha and Muslim League resulted in the vivisection of the Indian subcontinent, the RSS and Hindu Mahasabha are equally responsible for Partition, as much as the Muslim League is, but in Indian public memory it is only the Muslims, the Muslim League and Jinnah who are responsible for Partition.
That is where the selective memory comes, and that is dangerous.
On a personal front, given all the court cases against you, do you fear arrest?
If I live in constant fear I will stop doing the work I do. I do believe that we have in very powerful positions today chhotey dil aur chhotey dimaag ke log who have made a single point agenda to simply try and target a few individuals and organisations.
Citizens for Justice and Peace (Setalvad's NGO) has filed 68 cases in regard to the 2002 Gujarat riots and I have nine cases against me.
Now, I have to spend 20 per cent of my time battling those cases against me, my struggle is that. The rest of my time I carry on the work I am doing, and that I am managing.
Do you buy the theory that more the secular forces go against Modi, the stronger he becomes?
I dont buy that argument.
Whenever there is a popular regional option the BJP-RSS have been defeated. Maharashtra is a story of the Congress abdicating itself. Pawar did not go to Pune to campaign for his party, the Nationalist Congress Party.
It (the BJP win) did not happen like that. It happened because there were certain reasons behind it.
However, Mamata Banerjee romped home in Bengal. She is not RSS-BJP. I told you about Kejriwal, Nitish-Lalu. Now let us wait for March 11, 2017, to see what happens.
I am very optimistic.
Archis Mohan decodes Bharatiya Janata Party's pre-presidential poll manoeuvres.
The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance is currently short of nearly 66,000 votes in the electoral college that elects the President of India.
It hopes to bridge this deficit, partially, by winning a significant number of seats in the Uttar Pradesh legislative assembly. And, is banking on support of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam to meet the remainder of the shortfall.
As part of this outreach, the Narendra Modi government is set to recommend Anandiben Patels name for the vacant gubernatorial post at the Chennai Raj Bhavan.
Currently, Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao has the additional charge of Tamil Nadu.
Patel is a trusted lieutenant of Prime Minister Modi, which makes her a suitable candidate to be the TN governor, to lead Modi government's outreach to the new CM there, Edappadi K Palaniswami, and his supporters.
Sources said Patel would be evidence of the Modi government's intent to iron out the rough spots that had cropped up between the Centre and the AIADMK after the recent leadership tussle in that party.
Patel had succeeded Modi as CM of Gujarat, when he had moved to Delhi as the country's prime minister after the 2014 Lok Sabha poll.
In August 2016, Patel quit when a month short of turning 75. She has waited in the wings ever since, while others like Najma Heptulla, dropped from the Union Cabinet as she had reached the age of 75 years, were rewarded with gubernatorial posts.
The President of India is elected by members of an electoral college that comprise elected members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha and elected members of all legislative assemblies.
Nominated members, whether of Parliament or legislative assemblies, are not included.
The value of an MLA's vote is based on the population census of 1971. Therefore, the value differs from state to state.
The value of the vote of a legislator from UP, with the largest population, is the highest at 208, while Sikkims is the lowest at seven.
The value of the vote of a Member of Parliament is 708. The total value of votes of the electoral college is 1.09 million.
Currently, the BJP has nearly 380,000 votes in the electoral college. To reach the halfway mark of 549,000, the party needs another 170,000.
The 102,000 votes of its NDA partners reduces this gap to around 66,000. This is where the UP assembly poll results, as well as outreach to potential supporters as the AIADMK is crucial.
The UP assembly, with 403 seats, contributes 83,824 votes to the electoral college. In the outgoing assembly, the BJP has 41 MLAs, a meagre 8,528 votes.
Its winning around 150 seats in UP would deliver the BJP 31,200 votes in the presidential electoral college, while 100 seats would get it to 20,800.
Top BJP strategists, including party chief Amit Shah, are confident that a good performance in UP would compensate for the likely losses the party and ally Shiromani Akali Dal could suffer in Punjab.
A victory in UP will also deflate Opposition morale and help Modi government strategists persuade fence sitters among the regional parties to vote for the ruling coalition's candidate.
This is where regional ruling parties as the Trinamool Congress, Biju Janata Dal and AIADMK are important. All three have significant numbers in Parliament and are ruling parties in their respective states.
The TMC has 63,721 electoral college votes; the BJD has 37,257. The AIADMK has 58,160.
A Modi government and Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool rapproachment looks difficult at this juncture.
In Odisha, the BJP displaced the Congress as main challenger to Naveen Patnaik's government after last month's local body elections.
A 33-year-old jawan, who purportedly figured in an expose by a news portal on the orderly system in the army, was found dead in Maharashtra's Deolali and army on Friday appeared to blame the website for driving him to commit "suicide".
Roy Mathew, a resident of Ezhukon in Kollam district of Kerala, was missing since February 25 and his decomposed body was found hanging from the ceiling in an abandoned barrack in Deolali cantonment in Nashik on Thursday.
The army said that it never questioned Mathew after the video, which showed soldiers, working as Sahayaks, walking dogs of senior army officials or taking their children to school, surfaced. Incidentally, the news website has taken down the sting video.
It said that preliminary investigation has revealed that "the suicide may be result of a series of events which were triggered by media personnel managing to video-graph the deceased by asking leading questions on his duties as a buddy without his knowledge.
"It is very likely that the guilt factor of letting down his superiors or conveying false impression to an unknown individual, led to take the extreme step."
Police have registered a case of accidental death under Section 174 of the CrPC.
According to his family in Kerala, Mathew made his last phone call to them on February 25 and from the way he talked it was evident that he was in a frightened state.
Sources said that the last text message of Mathew, who was attached for 'buddy duties' with a Colonel-rank officer, was to the officer in which he said "sorry".
In a release, the army said the identity of the soldier in the video was hidden and thereby not known to it. "Hence there is no question of any enquiry that could have been ordered."
There is a view in the army that it should explore legal options against the news portal.
The army has also ordered a probe into circumstances leading to Mathew's death.
"Complaint has been lodged with the local police and an enquiry has been ordered by the army authorities to investigate the circumstances leading to his death. The army is offering all assistance in this regard to the family of the deceased and the civil administration."
Mathew had gone missing on February 25 and was declared absent without leave, the army said.
The sting operation had led to criticism of the British-era Sahayak (buddy) system. The army has ordered an inquiry into how the sting took place.
Police said Mathew, whose body was decomposed, might have died three days ago.
Mathew's death comes int he wake of a spate of videos released on social media by BSF, CRPF and other armed forces personnel that alleged poor working conditions and harassment.
The first video was released by BSF jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav on 9 January. His social media post on sub-standard food quality had triggered a controversy.
On 15 January, addressing a function organized on the occasion of Army Day, army chief General Bipin Rawat had warned that those using social media to air their grievances could face disciplinary action.
China on Friday warned India against allowing the Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh, saying it would cause "serious damage" to the bilateral ties and peace in the disputed border region.
However, the Indian government has said that the visit of Tibetan spiritual leader to the Northeastern state is on.
"China is gravely concerned over information that India has granted permission to the Dalai to visit Arunachal Pradesh," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told the media in Beijing.
Reacting to Geng's remarks, a senior Indian government official in New Delhi said that India's position is well known and has not changed.
The Dalai Lama will be in the north eastern state from April 4 to 13 and Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, among others, will meet him there.
During his visit to Tawang bordering China, the spiritual leader will be hosted by the Buddhist Tawang monastery where he will be meeting his followers.
"The Dalai Lama will be a guest of the Arunachal Pradesh government and as a devotee, I will meet him in Tawang," Rijiju, who represents the Arunachal-West Lok Sabha constituency under which Tawang falls, told PTI in New Delhi.
Rijiju, however, said the Dalai Lama is going to visit the state as a religious leader and there is no reason to stop him as his followers are demanding he should come.
Asked about China's objections, Rijiju said the central government is run by a nationalist party which considers the country's interests first.
"We are neither going to be dominated by anyone nor shall we dominate any of our neighbours. But we give prime importance to India's interests," he said, without making any reference to China.
While China has been claiming Arunachal Pradesh as part of Tibet and routinely objects to visits by top leaders, officials and diplomats to the area, India has been maintaining that the Tibetan spiritual leader was an honoured guest and was free to travel to any part of the country.
China had aired similar concerns in October last year when India granted permission to the Tibetan leader to visit Arunachal Pradesh at the invitation of the state government.
The visit is expected to take place this year.
"China is strongly opposed to the Dalai visiting disputed areas," Geng said.
"China's position on the eastern section of China-India border dispute is consistent and clear. The Dalai clique has long been engaging in anti-China separatist activities and its record on the border question is not that good," he said.
Geng said that China expressed its concern to India through formal channels.
"India is fully aware of the seriousness of the Dalai issue and the sensitivity of China-India border question," he said.
"Under such a background if India invites the Dalai to visit to the mentioned territory, it will cause serious damage to peace and stability of border region and China-India relations," he said.
"We have expressed concerns to the Indian side, urged India to stick to its political commitments and abide by important consensus the two sides have reached on the boundary question, refrain from actions that might complicate the issue, not provide a platform to the Dalai clique and protect the sound and stable development of the Sino-India relations," he said.
Geng's comments came in the backdrop of an interview to the Chinese media by former Chinese Special Representative on boundary dispute Dai Bingguo in which he said the border dispute between the two nations can be resolved if India gives up claim over Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
Asked about Dai's comments, Geng said he has not seen the interview.
He said that China's principled position on the boundary question with India is to reach an early solution pending China-India border question is in the fundamental interest of the two countries.
Ignoring China's protests, the government had earlier allowed former US ambassador to India Richard Verma and Tibetan spiritual leader Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje's visit to Arunachal Pradesh last year.
An Indian-origin girl in the United States has been allegedly racially abused by an African-American man who called her inappropriate names and yelled "get out of here" when she was travelling in a busy commuter train.
Ekta Desai, who lives in New York, took a video of the incident that occurred on February 23.
The video was then shared by a website The Voice Raiser and has since then gone viral and viewed by hundreds of thousands of people.
In the video, the African-American man is seen abusing the girl, saying words like "Freedom of speech" and "Black Power." Using expletives, he tells her to "get out of here."
As the girl is recording the video, the man gets visibly angry and is seen shouting at her.
"This man was on the same PATH train as me along with 100 other passengers, I had my headphones on and it was like any other day. Next thing I know he is yelling on my face (Did not bother to listen/react)," Desai wrote on social media.
Desai said she did not react to the man but he continued shouting and questioned as to why she was taking his photo and pictures. Several people have reacted sympathetically towards the girl after the video was posted online.
Desai said she reported the matter to police authorities, who allegedly said the man appears to be "emotionally unstable" and she should be careful.
Desai then contacted Kundan Srivastava, a Human Rights activist and founder of The Voice Raiser, who said the US government should "punish" the man for "harassing and abusing women and also insulting our nation."
"We would also like to say that being a girl does not make anyone less capable or helpless. As you can see in the video, people are just standing as a mere spectator. He yelled disgusting things and used unacceptable words. A person should abide by the civic rules and does not slut shame a woman. Keep Fighting!," Srivastava's organisation said.
The incident comes close on the heels of the shooting in Kansas of a 32-year-old Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla who was killed when 51-year-old US Navy veteran Adam Purinton opened fire at him and his friend Alok Madasani at a bar before yelling "get out of my country."
The shooting sent shock waves across the Indian-American community here with people expressing concerns over their safety in an enviornment of xenophobic and racist rhetoric in the country.
Image: A video grab recorded by Desai showing the African American man yelling at her.
Embattled US Attorney General Jeff Sessions has recused himself from any investigation into his alleged links with the Russian officials during the 2016 presidential elections.
"I have decided to recuse myself from any existing or future investigations of any matters related in any way to the campaigns for President of the US," Sessions said in a statement.
His remarks came after President Donald Trump said that he had "total" confidence in Sessions and he should not recuse himself from the Russian probe. However, Sessions decided against Trump's wish.
"This announcement should not be interpreted as confirmation of the existence of any investigation or suggestive of the scope of any such investigation," Sessions
said.
"Consistent with the succession order for the Department of Justice, Acting Deputy Attorney General and US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia Dane Boente shall act as and perform the functions of the Attorney General with respect to any matters from which I have recused myself to the extent they exist," he said.
Sessions said that during the course of the confirmation proceedings on his nomination to be the US Attorney General, he advised the Senate Judiciary Committee that "if a specific matter arose where I believed my impartiality might reasonably be questioned, I would consult with Department Ethics officials regarding the most appropriate way to proceed."
"During the course of the last several weeks, I have met with the relevant senior Career Department officials to discuss whether I should recuse myself from any matters arising from the campaigns for President of the US," Sessions said.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Thursday tweeted in support of Attorney General Sessions, saying that the latter was an honest man and had not said anything wrong.
Accusing the Democrats of creating the fuss around Jeff Sessions, Trump said the Democrats are overplaying their hand as they lost the elections and now they have lost their grip on reality.
"Jeff Sessions is an honest man. He did not say anything wrong. He could have stated his response more accurately, but it was clearly not intentional. This whole narrative is a way of saving face for Democrats losing an election that everyone thought they were supposed to win," Trump said in a series of tweets.
"The Democrats are overplaying their hand. They lost the election, and now they have lost their grip on reality."
Earlier in the day, CNN quoted Trump as saying that he has "total" confidence in Attorney General Jeff Sessions following accusations that he misled Congress by failing to disclose pre-election meetings with the Russian ambassador to Washington Sergey Kislyak. Following the accusations Democrats had called for Sessions to resign.
It had emerged that Sessions spoke twice with the Russian ambassador to the United States during former's presidential campaign.
Sessions did not mention either meeting during his confirmation hearings when he said he knew of no contacts between Trump surrogates and Russians. A Justice official said Sessions didn't mislead senators during his confirmation.
Sessions met with Kislyak twice in Washington, in July on the sidelines of the Republican convention, and in September in his office when Sessions was a member of the Senate Armed Services committee. Sessions was an early Trump backer and regular surrogate for him as a candidate.
Sessions, a former senator from Alabama, who was among Trump's early and most vocal surrogates on the campaign trail, did not disclose the conversations when asked during his Senate confirmation hearing in early 2017 about possible contacts between Trump's campaign and Moscow.
Several Republicans have called on Sessions to rescue himself from any involvement in an FBI probe into ties between the Trump campaign and Moscow.
The state's new prescription drug monitoring tool strives to better highlight critical information for physicians.
Disclaimer
This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Iraq: Civilian casualty figure for February tops 1,000 UN reports
Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 2 March 2017 Related Document(s) UN Casualties Figures for Iraq for the Month of February 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Iraq: Civilian casualty figure for February tops 1,000 UN reports, 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b93d0c4.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
More than 1,000 civilians were killed or injured last month in Iraq, the United Nations mission in the country has announced.
According to the latest figures from the UN Assistance Mission in the country (UNAMI), at least 392 civilians were killed and another 613 were injured in acts of terrorism, violence and armed conflict.
The head of UNAMI, Jan Kubis, condemned the deliberate targeting of civilians by the Islamic State (ISIL), and saluted the Iraqi security forces for professionalism in pursuing the terrorists while seeking to minimize civilian casualties.
"As the Iraqi security forces stepped up the military operations to liberate the remaining parts of Mosul from Daesh control, the terrorists struck again, targeting civilians with cowardly bombings to ease the pressure on the frontlines," Mr. Kubis said referring to ISIL by its Arabic acronym.
"Daesh's sinister attempts have failed to weaken the resolve of the people and Government of Iraq to rid the country once and for all from the scourge of terrorism," added Mr. Kubis, who is also the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq.
The figure of 392 is slightly lower than 403 civilians killed in January, when an additional 924 civilians were injured.
UN Casualties Figures for Iraq for the Month of February 2017
Publisher UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Publication Date 2 March 2017 Cite as UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), UN Casualties Figures for Iraq for the Month of February 2017, 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b93d954.html [accessed 7 November 2022]
A total of 392 Iraqi civilians were killed and another 613 were injured in acts of terrorism, violence and armed conflict in Iraq in February 2017*, according to casualty figures recorded by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).
Ninewa was the most affected Governorate, with 451 civilian casualties (201 killed, 250 injured). Baghdad Governorate followed with 120 killed and 300 injured, and Salahadin had 09 killed and 13 injured.
According to information obtained by UNAMI from the Health Directorate in Anbar, the Governorate suffered a total of 86 civilian casualties (42 killed and 44 injured). Figures were updated until 28 February, inclusive.
Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) for Iraq, Mr. Jan Kubis, lamented the continuing loss of life among Iraqi civilians. He condemned Daesh's deliberate targeting of civilians and saluted the Iraqi security forces for professionalism in pursuing the terrorists while seeking to minimize civilian casualties.
"As the Iraqi security forces stepped up the military operations to liberate the remaining parts of Mosul from Daesh control, the terrorists struck again, targeting civilians with cowardly bombings to ease the pressure on the frontlines. But Daesh's sinister attempts have failed to weaken the resolve of the people and Government of Iraq to rid the country once and for all from the scourge of terrorism."
Mr. Kubis added: "The security forces are making steady progress in Mosul and, despite the incessant provocations from the terrorists, are following the pre-planned concept of operations whose priority is securing the lives of Iraqis and minimizing civilian casualties. The Government and security forces of Iraq are commended for these actions, and we continue to urge that everything be done to ensure that civilians are kept out of harm's way."
CAVEATS: In general, UNAMI has been hindered in effectively verifying casualties in conflict areas. Figures for casualties from Anbar Governorate are provided by the Health Directorate and are noted in the February casualty report. Casualty figures obtained from the Anbar Health Directorate might not fully reflect the real number of casualties in those areas due to the volatility of the situation on the ground and the disruption of services. In some cases, UNAMI could only partially verify certain incidents. UNAMI has also received, without being able to verify, reports of large numbers of casualties along with unknown numbers of persons who have died from secondary effects of violence after having fled their homes due to exposure to the elements, lack of water, food, medicines and health care. Since the start of the military operations to retake Mosul and other areas in Ninewa, UNAMI has received several reports of incidents involving civilian casualties, which at times it has been unable to verify. For these reasons, the figures reported have to be considered as the absolute minimum.
UN Casualties Figures for Iraq for the Month of January 2017
Publisher UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Publication Date 1 February 2017 Cite as UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), UN Casualties Figures for Iraq for the Month of January 2017, 1 February 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b93ec84.html [accessed 7 November 2022]
A total of 403 Iraqi civilians were killed and another 924 were injured in acts of terrorism, violence and armed conflict in Iraq in January 2017*, according to casualty figures recorded by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).
The number of civilians killed in January (not including police) was 382, while the number injured (not including police) was 908.
Baghdad was the worst affected Governorate with 572 civilian casualties with 128 killed and 444 injured. Ninewa followed with 187 killed and 285 injured, and Salahadin had 30 killed and 45 injured.
According to information obtained by UNAMI from the Health Directorate in Anbar, the Governorate suffered a total of 143 civilian casualties (22 killed and 121 injured). Figures for Anbar are updated until 30 January, inclusive.
"The Daesh terrorists have focused their bombing attacks on markets and residential neighbourhoods. They have cowardly targeted civilians - women, children and the elderly who were going about their business or shopping", Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG) Jan Kubis said.
"But Daesh's goal of breaking the will of the people has collapsed in the face of the Iraqi people's resilience, despite of the difficulties and hardship, and the steady advances of the Iraqi security forces in the operation to liberate Mosul from the terrorists", the SRSG said.
*CAVEATS: In general, UNAMI has been hindered in effectively verifying casualties in conflict areas. Figures for casualties from Anbar Governorate are provided by the Health Directorate and are noted in the January casualty report. Casualty reports obtained from the Anbar Health Directorate might not fully reflect the real number of casualties in those areas due to the increased volatility of the situation on the ground and the disruption of services. In some cases, UNAMI could only partially verify certain incidents. UNAMI has also received, without being able to verify, reports of large numbers of casualties along with unknown numbers of persons who have died from secondary effects of violence after having fled their homes due to exposure to the elements, lack of water, food, medicines and health care. Since the start of the military operations to retake Mosul and other areas in Ninewa, UNAMI has received several reports of incidents involving civilian casualties, which at times it has been unable to verify. For these reasons, the figures reported have to be considered as the absolute minimum.
Hunger persists in chronic conflict zones despite strong global harvests UN
Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 2 March 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Hunger persists in chronic conflict zones despite strong global harvests UN, 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b93f464.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Despite robust food supply conditions, droughts are worsening food security across swathes of East Africa, and access to food has been dramatically reduced in areas suffering civil conflicts, a new United Nations report has found.
"This is an unprecedented situation. Never before have we been faced with four threats of famine in multiple countries simultaneously," Kostas Stamoulis, the Assistant Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), said in a news release issued today, noting that famine has been formally declared in South Sudan, and the food security situation is of grave concern in northern Nigeria, Somalia and Yemen.
According to the new edition of FAO's Crop Prospects and Food Situation report, some 37 countries require external assistance for food, 28 of them in Africa as a result of lingering effects of last year's El Nino-triggered droughts on harvests in 2016.
In South Sudan, 100,000 people were facing famine in Leer and Mayendit Counties, part of former Unity state. Overall, about 4.9 million people across the country were classified as facing crisis, emergency or famine.
In Yemen, 17 million people, or two-thirds of the population, are estimated to be food insecure. The report notes that "the risk of famine declaration in the country is very high."
In northern Nigeria, 8.1 million people are facing acute food insecurity conditions, and in Somalia, an estimated 2.9 million people have been severely food insecure from six months ago.
Conflicts and civil unrest in Afghanistan, Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Myanmar and Syria are also exacerbating food insecurity conditions for millions of people as well as affecting nearby countries hosting refugees.
Global food supply conditions robust
The report says, however, global food supply conditions are robust.
Cereal production made quite strong gains in the world overall in 2016, with a record recovery in Central America, and larger cereal crops in Asia, Europe and North America.
Prospects are favourable for the 2017 maize crop in Brazil and Argentina and the outlook is generally positive for coarse grains throughout the Southern Hemisphere. Prospects for rice are mixed, but it is still too early to make firm predictions for many of the world's major crops.
Maize harvests in Southern Africa, slashed by El Nino, are forecast to recover this year, with South Africa's output expected to increase by more than 50 per cent from 2016.
Although FAO's first global wheat production forecast for 2017 points to a 1.8 per cent decline from last year's record level, that is due mostly to a projected 20 per cent output drop in the United States.
The Madison School District is examining long-term capital improvement plans to keep up with the growing number of students and its aging facilities.
UN envoy condemns firing of rocket from Gaza towards Israel
Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 2 March 2017 Cite as UN News Service, UN envoy condemns firing of rocket from Gaza towards Israel, 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b93f924.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Condemning a rocket fired from Gaza towards Israel, a senior United Nations envoy has called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid escalation of the situation.
"Such provocations seek only to undermine peace," said Nickolay Mladenov, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process in a statement today.
According to the statement, the rocket fired yesterday was third such incident in the past 30 days after a period of almost four months of quiet.
"I call on all responsible parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid escalation and prevent incidents that jeopardize the lives of Palestinians and Israelis," urged Mr. Mladenov.
Jamaica: Prime Minister Holness must take decisive action to tackle human rights violations
Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 2 March 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Jamaica: Prime Minister Holness must take decisive action to tackle human rights violations, 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b940764.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
On the eve of the first anniversary of Jamaican Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, taking office, Amnesty International and Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) published an open letter calling on the government to take concrete steps to advance the protection and promotion of human rights in the country.
"Despite the commitment expressed by the Jamaican government to guarantee that the human rights of all Jamaicans are protected, reality remains that much more work needs to be done," said Erika Guevara Rosas, Americas Director at Amnesty International.
"The families of the many people allegedly illegally killed by the police urgently need justice, truth and reparation. Communities need a professional police force, well trained and adequately resourced, which fully respects human rights."
"JFJ and Amnesty International are ready to work with the Jamaican government to find concrete actions to fulfill our common goals of a safe and fair Jamaica for all."
Background information
In November 2016 Amnesty International published the report Waiting in Vain: Unlawful police killings and relatives' long struggle for justice which explores the catalogue of illegal tactics used by police across Jamaica to ensure relatives of victims of alleged unlawful killings by the police do not pursue justice, truth and reparation for their loved ones.
Following the publication of the report, JFJ and Amnesty International launched the campaign 'Time4Justice.' It seeks to advance police and justice reforms for a safer Jamaica and to accompany relatives of those allegedly unlawfully killed by the police in their quest to see those responsible face the courts.
Copyright notice: Copyright Amnesty International
Human Rights Watch Submission on Armenia to the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 1 March 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Human Rights Watch Submission on Armenia to the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, 1 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b941094.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
This memorandum, submitted to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities ("the Committee"), ahead of its review on Armenia, highlights areas of concern that Human Rights Watch hopes will inform the Committee's consideration of the Armenian government's compliance with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities ("CRPD"). This submission focuses on violations of the rights of children and young people with disabilities in Armenia, in particular articles 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 14, 19, 22, 23, 24, 26, 28 of the CRPD. This submission proposes issues and questions that Committee members may wish to raise with the Armenian government as the Committee reviews Armenia's compliance with its obligations under the CRPD.
This submission draws primarily on Human Rights Watch's research in 2016 in eight cities in Armenia, including visits to five state-run orphanages and ten state-run schools, including six special schools and four mainstream schools, and interviews with 173 people. We interviewed 47 children and young adults, and 63 families of children living in orphanages, attending special schools or attending mainstream schools. We also interviewed directors of orphanages, special schools, and mainstream schools, as well as social workers, doctors, teachers, psychologists, caregivers, and other staff in institutions. The information in this report is based on material that is published in the report by Human Rights Watch titled When Will I Get to Go Home?: Abuses and Discrimination against Children in Institutions and Lack of Access to Quality Inclusive Education in Armenia.
1. Children and Young People in State Institutions
Background
Many children in Armenia in orphanages and other residential institutions end up there because they have disabilities. There are three types of state residential institutions in Armenia: orphanages, residential special schools, and night boarding institutions. As of April 2016, there were nearly 3,700 children with and without disabilities in residential institutions in Armenia. Ninety percent of these children have at least one living parent.
There are six state-run orphanages in Armenia: three generalized orphanages where primarily children without disabilities live, and three specialized orphanages for children with disabilities. According to UNICEF, of 670 children residing in orphanages in May 2016, 70 percent have disabilities. According to the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Territorial Affairs and Administration, as of December 2016, there were 20 residential special schools in Armenia, with most having both children with and without disabilities enrolled.
Discrimination in the deinstitutionalization process
The government of Armenia is currently undertaking some important reforms regarding children in institutions, including reducing the number of children in state-run residential institutions and moving these children back to their families. However, the government appears to prioritize the return of children without disabilities to their families. Thus, although the total number of children in orphanages is decreasing, the concentration of children with disabilities, in particular children with multiple disabilities, mobility disabilities, or high support needs in orphanages is increasing. For example, at the time of Human Rights Watch's visit to the Kharberd specialized orphanage in May 2016, there were 221 residents, including 94 children and 127 young adults. Half of the residents are wheelchair users. Thirty-six children have visual and multiple disabilities, only two of whom have been taught to use a cane as a mobility tool.
Furthermore, the government has stated it plans to transform three generalized orphanages for children without disabilities into community-based support centers, but has made no commitments to transform or close the three orphanages where children with disabilities reside, and continues to invest in these institutions. This approach exacerbates the overrepresentation of children with disabilities in institutional care and is discriminatory.
Moving children between institutions instead of to families; no decrease in numbers of children with disabilities in institutions
Human Rights Watch found substantial evidence of children with disabilities being moved out of one orphanage or institution, only to be placed in another institution. In some cases, when children have returned to their birth families from an orphanage, they are then enrolled in a residential special school.
Directors of orphanages for children with disabilities reported that there is a large demand to place children in the orphanages. The three specialized orphanages, which are not scheduled for transformation, face overcrowding and, in some cases, waiting lists for children to enter. Thus, even when the institution is able to return children to their families or find alternative care solutions, or if the orphanage transfers children to another institution, more children quickly take the vacant places. The total population of children with disabilities in institutions is not decreasing.
Children who grow up in institutions remain in institutions as adults
For example, in response to the presence of many young adults in orphanages for children with disabilities, in 2015, the government converted a night boarding institution for children into the Zorag Psychiatric Care Center in Yerevan. Residents included people with psychosocial, intellectual, sensory, and other disabilities. According to the Zorag director, as of December 2016, the institution had 120 residents. Planned renovations will allow the institution to hold up to 200. In a December 2016 interview, the Zorag director told Human Rights Watch that the center's residents "will never go anywhere else. They will remain in this institution for their whole lives."
Denial of legal capacity
Armenian law guarantees every person who turns 18 the right to full legal capacity.[1] However, upon reaching adulthood, a person with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities can be deprived of legal capacity by a court decision, and the court identifies a guardian for this person to take decisions on his or her behalf.[2] There is no mechanism for partial deprivation of legal capacity for persons with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities in Armenia.[3] Supported decision making institutions do not exist in Armenia.
Children with disabilities who age out of institutions for children may remain in institutions indefinitely due to the lack of alternatives in the community, as well as officials' failure to ensure that all young people with disabilities have the right to exercise their legal capacity when they turn 18. Human Rights Watch found that authorities may deprive individuals with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities of legal capacity upon reaching adulthood, so that an individual's guardian, which can be an orphanage or an institution, continues to make all legal and other decisions for them even as adults. The forced confinement of adults in institutions without their consent can be a form of arbitrary detention.
In contrast, staff at a generalized orphanage, where only children without disabilities live, stated clearly that upon reaching 18, children have full legal capacity and the orphanage respects the law in this regard.
Problems in institutions
Even in the most well-resourced residential institutions in Armenia, children face isolation, the lack of individual attention and nurture, a lack of privacy, emotional distress due to family separation and a lack of preparation to lead individual lives as adults.
In residential institutions, children are typically divided into groups of between 10-17 children, with two caregivers.
Even the most dedicated and caring staff are challenged to provide individualized care and attention. The organization of children into large groups also leads to a lack of privacy, with older children and young adults sleeping in bedrooms with up to 13 others.
Children placed in institutions and their parents consistently reported that being separated from each other takes an emotional toll on them. Children often show symptoms of emotional and sometimes physical distress due to the separation from their families. Children may cry, refuse to eat, and experience poor moods and anxiety.
Residential institutions do little to prepare children to live on their own once they become adults.
Lack of services in the community drives placement of children with disabilities in institutions
Human Rights Watch research found that trained staff and specialized services for children with disabilities such as rehabilitation are available only to children living in institutions, rather than in the community. Concentrating services for children with disabilities in institutions rather than in the community contributes to many families' decisions to place children in institutions. It also means that many children with disabilities who remain with their families and who may require or benefit from certain services and resources are often unable to access them. The continued concentration of resources within institutions will have a disproportionate effect on children with disabilities, both those who live inside them and those who live in the community.
Lack of foster care and adoption
Alternative child care services in Armenia remain underdeveloped, even as the government is moving to transform residential institutions into centers providing community-based services, in some cases very quickly, and ostensibly prioritize family-based care. There is a risk of harm to children should the government move children out of residential institutions without alternative care solutions sufficient in quantity and quality. There are currently a total of 23 foster care families in all of Armenia. Currently, the national budget provides financial support for only 25 families annually. As this includes families already serving as foster parents, there is not currently budget capacity to support more foster families.
In the absence of sufficient alternative care solutions, referral to residential institutions remains the only resort in the overwhelming majority of cases in which remaining in or returning to the biological family is not possible or not in a child's best interest.
Under Armenian law, for a child to be placed in foster care, the child's parents have to relinquish their parental rights, which impedes the possibilities for many children to be moved out of institutions and into alternative care, or for children to be placed in foster care as a temporary measure, rather than in an institution.[4] Amendments to the family code would eliminate the requirement for parents to have relinquished their parental rights in order for children to be eligible for foster care placement. The amendments have been under review by several government ministries for many months, but at time of writing have not been sent to parliament.
Continued concentration of resources in buildings
UNICEF maintains that the financial support allocated to support children in institutions in Armenia, currently between US$3,000 and 5,000 per year per child, can be reallocated to community-based services and direct support to families and that these types of support in the long term require less budgetary expenditure.[5] A UNICEF study analyzing the costs of institutions in Armenia in contrast to community-based services determined that "services of residential institutions are very expensive." The report also found "the reallocation of children into family care does not necessarily lead to the creation of an additional burden on the state budget" and that, "on the contrary, depending on the policy chosen, the savings can be quite tangible, even if the reform costs include the provision of jobs to excessive staff of the discharged residential institutions and additional social support and care services for children released from residential institutions, and their families."[6]
Questions and recommendations
Human Rights Watch encourages the Committee to ask the government of Armenia:
What specific steps is the government taking to promote deinstitutionalization of children with disabilities on an equal basis with other children, and to guarantee that policies and practices on deinstitutionalization do not discriminate against children on the basis of disability, on the type of disability or high support needs?
What is the government doing to ensure that people with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities are not denied their legal capacity and placed in institutions in circumstances, which could amount to arbitrary deprivation of liberty?
How many individuals living in institutions for adults with disabilities have their legal capacity?
Will the government commit to replacing legal provisions that permit persons with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities to be denied full legal capacity and placed under full guardianship, with a system of assisted decision-making?
What specific steps is the government taking to ensure that financial and other resources allocated to institutions are truly decentralized and redirected to the establishment of community-based services, and do not remain exclusively in transformed institutions?
What steps is the government taking to introduce in parliament legislative amendments to the Family Code that would facilitate more foster care and adoption?
What steps is the government taking to ensure that there is sufficient budgetary support to support more than 25 foster families?
Human Rights Watch encourages the Committee to make the following recommendations to the government of Armenia:
Deter any new long-term placements of children in residential institutions;
Establish a time-bound plan to end the institutionalization of children;
End discrimination against children with disabilities in the deinstitutionalization process;
Recognize involuntary hospitalization or institutionalization based on the existence of a disability as a form of discrimination and without consent of the individual as a form of arbitrary detention;
Ensure that financial and other resources allocated to institutions are decentralized and redirected to community-based services, and do not remain exclusively in transformed institutions;
Ensure that foster care and adoption systems are fully functional by the time children are moved out of residential institutions;
Ensure that systems promoting and implementing foster care and adoption take specific measures to ensure children with disabilities are placed in foster and adoptive families on an equal basis with children without disabilities;
Establish and maintain a range of targeted, accessible, diversified community-based services for families in difficult situations, as well as for individuals, including children with disabilities and their families, to prevent institutionalization and to support families to raise their children at home.
2. Lack of Access to Quality Inclusive Education
Background
The Armenian government has committed to making all primary and secondary schools (compulsory education, grades 1 to 12) inclusive of children with disabilities by 2022. According to the Ministry of Education, for the 2016-2017 school year, 6,700 children with "special educational needs" are enrolled in mainstream schools providing inclusive education.
Lack of reasonable accommodations
Human Rights Watch found that children with disabilities, including those in mainstream schools designated as "inclusive", often do not receive a quality education on an equal basis with others. Schools in Armenia rarely provide sufficient reasonable accommodations to facilitate the learning of each child with a disability. The lack of reasonable accommodations, include, but are not limited to, the absence of basic physical accessibility in educational buildings; a lack of accessible sanitary facilities; and a lack of accommodations for children with sensory disabilities. A lack of an individualized approach to education and social development impedes the ability of many children with disabilities to enjoy a quality education.
Human Rights Watch spoke with numerous parents of children with disabilities enrolled in inclusive community schools who remained with their children in the classroom to support him or her because of the absence of reasonable accommodations to support the child's learning needs and full inclusion in the school and classroom. In most cases, this was the child's mother. This can impede children's inclusion and can disrupt family life, including a parent's ability to secure paid employment or care for other children. Parents frequently referred to certain behaviors or features related to the child's disability, such as an inability to speak, write, move independently, sit still for extended periods of time, or sit without support, which many schools would not accommodate, as the main reason for staying with their child at school, or opting for a special school (see below).
Separate and irregular education
Despite attending so-called inclusive schools, many children with disabilities do not attend classes with other children or are present in classrooms but do not participate in the academic curriculum. Their education often consists of primarily or exclusively one hour or shorter sessions once or a few times a week with specialists employed at the school: typically, a speech therapist, psychologist, and social worker.
In addition, children with disabilities enrolled in "inclusive" mainstream schools and in special schools may attend school for only a few hours a day, or not all days of the week, due to the lack of reasonable accommodations or other obstacles, such as lack of accessibility in apartments or in public transportation which makes it difficult for them to regularly attend school.
Lack of sufficient staff, including as a component of reasonable accommodation
Inclusive community schools and special schools often lack sufficient staff, in particular aides who can provide direct support to one or more children. Teachers' assistants are being introduced to every inclusive school, at a ratio of one per 100 children. The teacher's assistant's role is to support teachers in organizing the education of every child with educational support needs, including implementation of the child's individual education plan, facilitating contacts with families, and providing additional courses to children after school. This position is not designed to provide direct academic, self-care, or other support children with disabilities.
Special schools and separation from families and the community
Some parents continue to opt for special schools for their children with disabilities, in search of smaller class sizes and more individualized approaches. Armenian law protects the right of parents to choose to send their children to a special school. However, these schools may be located far from their homes, and often require children to live at the school full-time or during the school week, may not provide a quality education, and inhibit children's full inclusion in the community.
Home education, not a quality education
Human Rights Watch also found that children with disabilities may be relegated to home education, due to problems with accessibility in schools, homes, and in the community as well as schools' failure to provide reasonable accommodation. With home education, teachers from local schools visit children at home and provide a few hours of basic literacy and numeracy instruction per week, in mathematics, Armenian language and Russian language, which does not constitute a quality education. These children typically have little or no interaction with classmates or other peers.
Stigma and discrimination
Numerous children with disabilities and their parents said stigma was an obstacle to receiving a quality inclusive education. Parents of children with disabilities described instances of harassment and bullying of their children who attended mainstream schools. Other parents declined to send their children to mainstream schools, or to school at all, or placed their children in institutions due to fears of stigma.
Questions and recommendations
Human Rights Watch encourages the Committee to ask the government of Armenia:
What steps is the government taking to minimize the removal of children with disabilities from classrooms for separate coursework?
What steps is the government taking to consistently ensure the provision of reasonable accommodations for each child with a disability, including low-cost accommodations, classroom-based personnel to support children who require individualized attention to facilitate their learning, time-bound plans to improve physical accessibility in schools, and other relevant measures?
What steps is the government taking to reduce stigma and discrimination against people with disabilities in schools and communities?
What steps is the government taking to reduce the number of children receiving home education, including by working with municipal governments to address accessibility obstacles in the community?
Human Rights Watch encourages the Committee to make the following recommendations to the government of Armenia:
Implement inclusive education at all levels in such a way as to achieve maximum inclusion of children with disabilities, including children with high support needs, in mainstream schools;
In schools, minimize the removal of children with disabilities from classrooms for separate coursework. While some children may require certain individual or small group coursework, these classes should maximize children's academic and social development and should not be a replacement for children's full participation in the classroom;
Ensure there are sufficient and trained staff in classrooms, including by ensuring sufficient financial support for assistant teachers and student aides at a ratio that promotes inclusion;
Collect comprehensive data on and take steps to reduce the number of children receiving home education or receiving no education and ensure reasonable accommodations for them to study in community schools.
[1] Civil Code, art, 24(1).
[2] Ibid., art. 31(1).
[3] Ibid., art. 32. Reasons for partial deprivation of legal capacity include only addiction to alcohol, narcotics, or gambling.
[4] Human Rights Watch telephone interview with Arsen Stepanyan, November 2, 2016. The government piloted a 10-year foster care program in Armenia, with 13 foster families, but the project was discontinued due to lack of funding.
[5] Human Rights Watch interview with Tanja Radocaj, Artak Shakaryan, and George Abadjian, UNICEF, April 12, 2016.
[6] UNICEF, "Towards Alternative Child Care Services in Armenia: Costing Residential Care Institutions and Community Based Services."
Copyright notice: Copyright, Human Rights Watch
Azerbaijan: No Progress On Key Reforms
Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 2 March 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Azerbaijan: No Progress On Key Reforms, 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b9427e4.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), a prominent international coalition, should suspend Azerbaijan's membership for failing to carry out key reforms, a coalition of 21 groups including Human Rights Watch, ARTICLE 19, and International Media Support said today. The EITI, during its board meeting in Bogota, Colombia, on March 8 and 9, 2017, will review Azerbaijan's efforts to ease its repression of civil society groups as the EITI had required.
"The Azerbaijani government is snubbing the EITI by ignoring its requirements for reforms and by systematically dismantling the country's independent civil society," said Giorgi Gogia, South Caucasus director at Human Rights Watch. "Following numerous reviews and warnings, the EITI should suspend Azerbaijan's further participation until the government makes serious, lasting changes to allow nongovernmental groups to operate freely in Azerbaijan."
The EITI brings together governments, companies, and nongovernmental groups to encourage better governance of resource-rich countries by fostering open public debate about the use of oil, gas, and mining revenues. The EITI requires member governments to foster "an enabling environment for civil society" and to "refrain from actions which result in narrowing or restricting public debate in relation to implementation of the EITI."
At its most recent board meeting, in October 2016, the EITI gave Azerbaijan four months to eliminate legal and bureaucratic obstacles inhibiting civil society engagement in the initiative. It required Azerbaijan to simplify procedures for registration of nongovernmental organizations and for the receipt and registration of grants from foreign donors. The reforms would eliminate some mechanisms for the government to interfere with and stop the work of independent groups. The EITI had downgraded Azerbaijan from a full member to a candidate country in April 2015, due to the government's interference with independent civil society.
A joint letter signed by 22 human rights groups worldwide and sent to EITI board members on February 10, 2017 assessed the Azerbaijan government's lack of progress on the reforms identified by the EITI and called on the board to suspend Azerbaijan.
In January, Azerbaijan's Cabinet of Ministers adopted two decisions changing regulations for donor organizations and grant registrations. While the new regulations simplify some procedures for grant registration and reduce the number of required documents, they do not repeal the restrictive laws and fail to meet the EITI's demands, the groups said.
"Superficial regulatory changes don't address the fundamental issues that led to downgrading Azerbaijan's status in the EITI, or the specific corrective actions set by the board," said Katie Morris, head of Europe and Central Asia for ARTICLE 19. "The credibility of the EITI validation process requires the initiative to suspend Azerbaijan for its failure to comply with the initiative's commitment to civil society participation."
The Azerbaijani authorities repeatedly harass activists who advocate good governance and transparency, preventing civil society groups from participating in public debate and advocacy, including on extractive industries, the pillar of Azerbaijan's economy. Two members of the local civil society coalition that participates in the EITI remain jailed on spurious charges, and several other members have been forced to flee the country, fearing politically motivated prosecutions.
"Local groups in Azerbaijan are counting on the EITI to remain principled and stand up for them and their essential contributions to public accountability and transparency," said Gulnara Akhundova, head of global response at International Media Support. "Azerbaijan's embattled civil society deserves nothing less than clear and unbiased support from EITI's international board."
Copyright notice: Copyright, Human Rights Watch
Bangladesh: Man Released From Long Secret Detention
Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 2 March 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Bangladesh: Man Released From Long Secret Detention, 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b943504.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
The release this week of a man held incommunicado for more than six months after his apparent abduction by security forces is a step forward, but Bangladeshi authorities need to immediately reveal the fate and whereabouts of two other men held in secret detention, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch said today.
Humam Quader Chowdhury, who was taken away by men in plainclothes on August 4, 2016, was released March 2, 2017, near his family home in Dhaka. Two other men Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem and Abdullahil Amaan Azmi were also taken in August 2016 in separate incidents and have not been heard from since. They should either be charged or released without delay.
The three men are all sons of prominent opposition politicians tried and convicted by the International Crimes Tribunal set up to prosecute war crimes committed during Bangladesh's 1971 war of independence. They have been denied access to lawyers and their family members.
"The release of Humam Quader Chowdhury is one positive step, but he should never should have been held in secret detention in the first place," said Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch. "The Bangladeshi authorities need to now come clean about what has happened to Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem and Abdullahil Amaan Azmi, and provide their families with answers. They were picked up in front of relatives and other eyewitnesses and there is little room for denial that security forces were involved in their enforced disappearances."
International pressure has mounted on the Bangladeshi authorities over these and other cases. Last week, the United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances called on the government to reveal the whereabouts of the three men and all other victims of enforced disappearances in the country. The working group's statement, citing concern over a rise in enforced disappearances over the last few years, was endorsed by several other UN experts.
Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have been raising concerns about these disappearances for many months.
Authorities have denied holding the men in custody, although family members cite multiple credible sources to confirm the men were held by different branches of security forces since their abductions, including the Rapid Action Battalion and the military intelligence Directorate General of Forces Intelligence.
Enforced disappearances, particularly targeting supporters of opposition parties, are routinely conducted by security forces in Bangladesh. The Bangladeshi human rights group Odhikar reported that in 2016, at least 90 people were arrested by security forces and not heard from again. Enforced disappearance is defined under international law as the arrest or detention of a person by state officials or their agents, followed by a refusal to acknowledge the deprivation of liberty or to reveal the person's fate or whereabouts.
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both highlighted Bangladeshi security forces' extensive and well-documented history of custodial abuse, including torture and other ill-treatment.
"Enforced disappearances have become a scourge in Bangladesh. For far too long, far too many families have lived with the grief of not knowing where their loved ones are," said Biraj Patnaik, South Asia director at Amnesty International. "The Bangladeshi authorities need to put an end to this criminal practice immediately. They should bring those suspected of criminal responsibility to justice in fair trials without recourse to the death penalty."
Humam Quader Chowdhury
Humam Quader Chowdhury, 33, is the son of Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury, a prominent leader of the opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP) who was executed in November 2015 following his conviction for war crimes. Humam Chowdhury is also a senior member of the BNP. On August 4, 2016, he was pulled out of his car while traveling with his mother to a courthouse to attend a hearing. His mother said that several men in civilian clothing forced Chowdhury into another vehicle. They were surrounded by other armed men in uniform.
The family had previously reported that on several occasions security force members had harassed and threatened security staff at the family home. Staff members eventually quit out of fear. Several family members went into hiding as a result of the repeated threats and intimidation. Humam Chowdhury had not been allowed to leave Bangladesh for the last seven years and had been turned back with no explanation at the airport each time he tried to leave.
Until March 2, 2017, the family had no news of Humam Chowdhury's whereabouts.
Immediately after his abduction, his mother tried to file a general diary complaint, the standard first report of transgressions filed with the police, but the police said they would need permission "from above" to accept the report. A well-placed diplomatic source told the family that the government had confirmed it was holding Humam Chowdhury and that he had not been harmed. Another source told them that he was being held by the Detective Branch's counterterrorism unit.
Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem
Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem, 32, is the son of Mir Quasem Ali, a prominent leader of the opposition Jamaat-e-Islami party. Quasem Ali was convicted of war crimes in November 2014 and was facing execution when Bin Quasem was abducted.
Bin Quasem is a Supreme Court lawyer who had also served as his father's lawyer. He was abducted at his home at around midnight on August 9, 2016, by several men in civilian clothes. The men said they were members of the administration but did not identify themselves as being with any specific branch of the security forces. His wife and cousin were present at the time. Bin Quasem told the security forces that as a lawyer he knew his rights and demanded to see an arrest warrant. The men said they did not need a warrant and dragged Bin Quasem away, refusing even to let him put on his shoes.
Mir Quasem Ali was hanged in September. The government denied the family's entreaties to allow Bin Quasem to see his father before the execution or to attend to his father's funeral.
In the weeks before his abduction, Bin Quasem had told Human Rights Watch that he was worried about his safety. He had ruled out leaving the country because he wanted to support his family in the period before his father's execution. His family was subsequently told, but has not been able to confirm, that he was initially held along with Humam Chowdhury at the headquarters of the Rapid Action Battalion, and was later moved to the headquarters of the Detective Branch. Bin Quasem's wife has filed a general diary complaint. As with Chowdhury's family, a diplomatic source confirmed that the government admitted to holding Bin Quasem but was unable to offer any further information.
Abdullahil Amaan Azmi
Abdullahil Amaan Azmi, 57, a retired brigadier general in the army, is the son of Ghulam Azam, a leader of the Jamaat-e-Islami party who was convicted of war crimes and sentenced to death in 2013. In light of his 90 years of age, the court ruled that Azam would serve a life sentence rather than face execution. He died of a heart attack in prison in October 2014.
Amaan Azmi was abducted on the evening of August 22, 2016. About 30 men in civilian clothes entered the grounds of his apartment building, telling staff they were from the Detective Branch. They assaulted the building caretaker, leaving him unconscious, then went apartment to apartment until they found Azmi. His wife, mother, and several staff who were present confirmed that the men said they were from the Detective Branch and told Azmi he had to come with them.
Azmi asked to see an arrest warrant. They said they didn't have one and grabbed him and blindfolded him. He asked to take some clothes, but they refused. They took him away in an unmarked car, and the family has had no news of him since.
Like Chowdhury and Bin Quasem, Azmi had been concerned about his safety in the months before his abduction. Police, both in uniform and civilian clothes, had regularly parked outside his building and would occasionally go to the apartment to ask about him and his whereabouts. Immediately after he was taken, Azmi's mother went to the nearest police station to file a complaint. The police took it but told her they would not register it officially. The family has heard rumors that Azmi is being held at the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence.
Copyright notice: Copyright, Human Rights Watch
RSF decries closure of two radio stations in Libya
Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 1 March 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, RSF decries closure of two radio stations in Libya, 1 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b943fd4.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemns the arbitrary closure of two radio stations in the past few days in Libya - Al Wassat in the eastern part of the country and the local radio station in the western city of Gharyan. In a post on social media on 27 February, Al Wassat media group chairman Mahmud Shammam reported that the radio station's transmitter in Tobruk had just been seized by security forces attached to the army that controls eastern Libya.
The same day, Al Wassat's headquarters in Benghazi was suddenly raided and closed and material was confiscated. The only reason given for its closure was the claim that its signal was interfering with the local government's broadcasts. It was the militia in charge of protecting Gharyan's local radio station that demanded its closure on 23 February without giving any plausible reason. It has not broadcast since then. Attempts to resolve tension between the militia and Gharyan's local authorities, so that the station can resume broadcasting, have so far been unsuccessful. "The situation in Libya is extremely worrying and we request the immediate reopening of these radio stations," RSF editor in chief Virginie Dangles said. "Regardless of the criticisms that can be levelled against them, their closure was sudden, disproportionate and arbitrary, and will only help to block the problematic transition that Libya has been experiencing since 2011." Several cases of journalists being the targets of abduction or violence have also been reported to RSF in the western city of Tripoli but the victims are terrified of the many militias operating in the city and have asked not to be identified. The conflict between the rival governments in the east and west of the country since the start of 2016 has resulted in a climate of complete impunity for crimes of violence and abuses against journalists and media outlets, which makes it very dangerous for them to operate. Libya is ranked 164th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2016 World Press Freedom Index.
Privately-owned media denied state advertising revenue
Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 2 March 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, Privately-owned media denied state advertising revenue, 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b944864.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) urges Kenya's government to rescind a newly imposed ban on state advertising in the privately-owned media, the latest in a series of restrictive initiatives that could seriously weaken media independence and jeopardise the right to information in the run-up to general elections in August.
It was the privately-owned Daily Nation newspaper that revealed this week that chief of defence forces Samson Mwathethe and cabinet secretary for public service Sicily Kariuki had issued a directive forbidding all governmental entities from placing ads in the privately-owned media.
The directive even applies to positions vacant and invitations to bid, which state agencies will henceforth only be able to publish in the state media. Unions representing the independent media estimate that the ban will result in a loss of 20 million dollars in income for the privately-owned media, or about a third of their revenue.
The grounds given by the government for throttling the independent media financially in the run-up to the elections is the need for savings.
"We call on the government to rescind this directive, which will considerably weaken all the Kenyan media," said Clea Kahn-Sriber, the head of RSF's Africa desk. "With general elections coming in August, this new measure could rightly be seen as a deliberate attempt by the government to restrict independent media voices."
Journalists prevented from working
The directive is all the more disturbing because it follows many other developments that have limited media freedom in Kenya.
In a joint letter a month ago, RSF and other human rights NGOs condemned the expulsion of Jerome Starkey, a British reporter for The Times of London who had been based in Kenya for four years. The authorities ended up claiming that Starkey's deportation in December was the result of his work visa renewal being refused, although he had not been notified of this.
The editor of the Daily Nation's weekend edition was fired after publishing an editorial on 1 January criticizing the results of President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration.
One of the gravest cases is the still unsolved murder in April 2015 of John Kituyi, the editor of the regional Mirror Weekly newspaper, who had been investigating the intimidation of witnesses in the International Criminal Court case against Kenyan Deputy President William Ruto.
There have been several cases in recent months of police harassing reporters. They include K24 television reporter Duncan Wanga, who was arrested for no good reason while covering a demonstration in the western city of Eldoret on 27 September. His camera was also smashed.
Yassin Juma, a journalist and blogger who covers military issues, was arrested on 23 January 2016 for allegedly violating article 29 of Information and Communication Act in a story about Kenya's defence forces. Article 29 was declared unconstitutional the following April on the grounds that it was too vague.
The climate of impunity encourages members of the public to attack journalists. At least five journalists were physically attacked by local elected officials or groups of supporters while out reporting in July and August last year. The media regulatory agency condemned these attacks and urged the police to investigate them.
The Daily Nation - one of Kenya's most popular newspapers and owned by the Aga Khan group - was harassed by the government in February 2016, with the result that its management fired Godfrey "Gado" Mwampembwa, a cartoonist who had worked for the newspaper for more than 20 years, over a cartoon of former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete. Gado had embodied the outspoken style used by Kenya's media.
Meanwhile, Kenya's legislation has been getting more and more restrictive. The public security laws have been amended so as reinforce the prerogatives of the National Intelligence Service.
More recently, a bill on Internet security and protection unveiled in September targeted online freedom of information in the name of combatting hate speech. The bill's loose wording could be used to gag journalists and bloggers regarded as overly critical of the government.
Kenya is ranked 95th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2016 World Press Freedom Index.
Concern about M23 threats against Kivu journalist
Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 3 March 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, Concern about M23 threats against Kivu journalist, 3 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b945334.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is concerned about threats by the M23 rebel group against Magloire Paluku Kavunga, the director-general of the Kivu 1 radio and TV broadcaster in the eastern region of Kivu.
Kavunga received calls and texts from a person identifying himself as Maj. Oribi Shamamba, a former M23 officer who fled to neighbouring Uganda. The caller threatened to come and "confiscate" the radio station "when this rebel movement arrives in the region in March."
Since then, Kavunga has been concerned for his and his family's safety. The threats were apparently prompted by a report that Kivu 1 broadcast on 24 February showing the defeat of the M23 rebels in November 2013 in Rutshuru, in Nord-Kivu province.
M23 distinguished itself in the course 2013 by its abusive treatment of the civilian population, including journalists and media, in Nord-Kivu.There have been few M23 attacks since late 2013, when it was partially defeated and dismantled.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is ranked 152nd out of 180 countries in RSF's 2016 World Press Freedom Index.
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Ukraine Showcases Advanced New Air-to-Ground Rocket Munition
Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Sergey Sukhankin Publication Date 2 March 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 28 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Ukraine Showcases Advanced New Air-to-Ground Rocket Munition, 2 March 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 28, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b9606d4.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Link to original story on Jamestown website
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko announced, on February 11, that Ukroboronprom (a state-owned association of multi-product enterprises in the defense industry) has successfully tested a new type of domestically produced air-to-ground rocket with impressive technical characteristics (Pravda.com.ua, February 11). This 80 millimeter caliber munition can be launched from both attack helicopters and strike fighters. A round of 20 rockets can be fired within half a second. The Ukrainian-built munition and other recent defense-sector developments (see EDM, January 25) suggest that the timetable for modernizing Ukraine's armed forcesas put forth by Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak and President Poroshenkois meeting the target goal of bringing domestic standards up to those of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) by 2020.
As expected, the news produced a wave of harsh criticism from Russian military specialists and commentators. Mihail Hodarenok, a former editor-in-chief of Voenno-Prosmyshelennyj Kurier, blatantly accused Ukraine of "reinventing the wheel" and capitalizing on the legacy of the Soviet military-industrial complex. He also suggested that this 80 mm munition "has nothing to do with NATO standards" (Bfm.ru, February 11). Meanwhile, the editor-in-chief of Arsenal Otechestva magazine, Viktor Murahovsky, expressed doubt that Ukraine will be able to mass produce this type of rocket "any time soon." Murahovsky claimed that the country does not have enough qualified specialists to achieve sufficient production levels in a timely manner (Voenno-Promyshlennyi Kurier, February 13). Such arguments were also echoed by other Russian experts and pundits.
However, some officials in Moscow have been less singularly negative in their assessments. For instance, army general and former commander of the Russian Air Force Petr Deynekyn gave a much more nuanced interpretation. He admitted that given Ukraine's current economic hardships, it will probably take some time for its military-industrial complex to start mass producing this weaponry. Nevertheless, the high-ranking Russian officer did not dismiss the possibility that the country's arms manufacturers have indeed made a technological breakthrough with the announced 80 mm rocket. Namely, Deynekyn noted that during the Soviet period, "Ukraine used to be an aviation power," where "excellent missiles were produced" (Voenno-Promyshlennyi Kurier, February 13).
In the meantime, Ukraine's technological and military modernization pursuits appear to be a matter of growing concern and vexation for Moscow. For instance, Kyiv's decision to conduct shooting exercises with the employment of Buk-M1 (NATO classification SA-17 "Grizzly") complexes in the vicinity of the unlawfully annexed Crimean peninsula stimulated particular ire in the Kremlin. Numerous Russian experts and commentators have expressed their concern over this decision, suggesting that this move will constitute a "peril for Russian national security." The danger, according to these Russian commentators, allegedly stems from the lack of professionalism and outdated military equipment used by the Ukrainian military (Voenno-Promyshlennyi Kurier, February 13).
However, the real reason behind Russia's concerns may be fears of a growing competitor in the international arms trade. Despite chronic corruption scandals, difficult economic conditions and the consequences of external aggression, Ukraine still maintains substantial development and production potential within its domestic arms industry. A sensible use of the country's internal resources and a quicker passage of necessary reforms, coupled with external support, could create fertile ground for new achievements and exponentially increase Ukraine's presence on the global arms market. In fact, Ukrainian progress in this sphere thus far was recently highlighted at this year's International Defence Exhibition (IDEX-2017hosted by Abu Dhabi, between February 19 and 23). During the exhibition, Ukraine presented a number of new samples of weaponry that drew considerable interest from potential international buyers. One such example was the tactical unmanned multifunctional vehicle "Fantom." The Fantom is equipped with the "Barrier" anti-tank missile complex, which is be able to hit targets in the range of 100 to 5,000 meters (Ukroboronprom.com.ua, October 20, 2016). In addition, during the Abu Dhabi arms expo, Ukroboronprom presented a new light fighting helicopter, code-named K112 "Combat." The helicopter could be equipped with the "Barrier-V" anti-tank missile system, designed to destroy practically all types of armored targets. Also, the helicopter can be equipped with "Strela-2" and "Igla" missiles, for destroying flying objects (Ukroboronprom.com.ua, March 1).
According to Ukrainian military experts and veterans of the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO), which still continues in Donbas, Ukrainian arms producers have been able to overcome many deficiencies in military equipment that were visible in 2014. The main progress was apparently achieved in armored vehicles, tanks and tank gunsareas that proved to be the weakest link in 2014, at the start of hostilities between the Ukrainian army and Moscow-backed separatists. Additionally, the outbreak of war has enticed Ukrainian producers to resume work on long-range missile systems. Those had been largely halted in 2013 for a whole host of reasons, but primarily owing to the unwillingness of the previous authorities to invest in new military technologies (Ukroboronprom.com.ua, March 1).
During IDEX-2017, the majority of contracts between Ukrainian manufacturers and foreign buyers were signed in the domain of armored vehicles and optical electronics. As noted by an unnamed Ukroboronprom representative, "Ukrainian military products are valued on the international market primarily due to their compliance with requirements presented by contemporary standards." Most important, however, is the fact that Russia's so-called "hybrid war" against Ukraine (even though this term does not reflect the actual current stage of the conflict) has reinvigorated technical research and development pursued by the Ukrainian military-industrial complex (Ukroboronprom.com.ua, March 1).
In the final analysis, in spite of a torrent of criticism emanating from both Russian and even some Ukrainian experts, it is safe to say that Ukraine has achieved visible progress within the arms industry, especially in comparison with the pre-2014 period. Incidentally, this has been corroborated by external sources as well. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Ukraine was the ninth-biggest of the world's major weapons exporters during 20122016 (Sipri.org, February 22). And its arms sales in that period grew by nearly 50 percent over 20072011 (Sipri.org, February 20). Further development of Ukraine's domestic arms industry is certain to continue in the years ahead.
Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Moscow Preparing for 'Asymmetrical' Arms Race
Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Pavel Felgenhauer Publication Date 2 March 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 28 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Moscow Preparing for 'Asymmetrical' Arms Race, 2 March 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 28, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b960e84.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Link to original story on Jamestown website
United States President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of Congress this week (February 28) did not mention the true elephant in the roomhis administration's plans regarding future US relations with Russia. He also said nothing about the possible pre-election and post-election contacts members of the Trump team allegedly may have had with Russian officials. Indeed, that story is currently poised to be the hottest political issue in Washington, DC. In general, Russian officials seem somewhat disappointed with the Trump administration for "not coming through." According to Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, Moscow and Washington "have coinciding interests in some areas and fully disagree in others." President Trump has been making "different statements" about possible deals and rebuilding relations, continued Peskov, "We are full of patience and waiting for actions to follow." The Kremlin, according to Peskov, "is not surprised Trump did not mention Russia [during his speech before Congress]"the US president made no specific overtures to or criticism of Moscow. "Trump is dealing with American issues, while Putin is dealing primarily with Russian issues," Peskov concluded (TASS, March 1).
At a round table conference this week in the State Duma (lower chamber of the Russian parliament), Deputy Foreign Minister Segei Ryabkov, who is in charge of US-Russian relations and arms control, assessed current relations with Washington as "the worst" in 30 years"since the Cold War." In Ryabkov's words, a "zero-sum game" dominates US-Russian relations, and "trust has been completely lost." Ryabkov accused former President Barack Obama and "his team" of destroying "the carefully built foundation of cooperation [with Moscow]." This Obama-organized downward spiral began in 2012, according to Ryabkov, apparently after Putin officially returned to the Kremlin; and it turned into open confrontation as the Ukrainian crisis erupted in 2014 (Interfax, February 28). Ryabkov expressed optimism that an opening in relations could happen at a future Trump-Putin summit. According to the deputy foreign minister, the date and venue have not been agreed, "but practical preparations have begun, and there is an understanding on that with the Americans." The Trump White House later denied that any "practical preparation" for a future Trump-Putin summit was currently ongoing, but this is apparently a difference in linguistic definitions. Feelers have definitely been extended by both sides, and a mutual desire to reach some US-Russian deal seems to exist. As to how far this possible Trump-Putin deal could go, Ryabkov stated practically the same opinion as Peskov: "We will wait to see Washington's practical actions to evaluate the prospects of finding points of agreement" (Militarynews.ru, February 28).
Clearly, the euphoria in Moscow about Trump's victory last November has diminished (see EDM, February 21). Russian officials are not sure what the new administration is ready to deliver in terms of recognizing Moscow's purported special rights and interests in Crimea and Ukraine, in Syria and Libya, regarding the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) pulling back its forward-positioned forces from its eastern flank (Poland, the Baltics, Romania and the Black Sea region), or on providing sanction relief. Trump's announcement of a $54 billion increase in defense spending has been met in Moscow with disapproval as posing a possible threat (Militarynews.ru, February 27). Of course, military planners and the Russian military-industrial complex like threatsthe more, the betterto justify their own defense spending. According to a recent survey by pollster Oshestvennoye Mnenye (OM), a vast majority of Russians (71 percent) want any additional federal budget income that may be generated by higher oil pieces to be used on civilian, not military expenditures. Russian citizens support their military and believe it is today in good shape, but only 29 percent agree defense spending should increase, while 48 percent want it to be fixed at the present level (Interfax, March 1). OM is a Kremlin-financed pollster, which seldom publishes data contradicting official policy directives. These poll results indicating the Russian public's exasperation with defense spending increases may, therefore, reflect continuing internal squabbles within the ruling Russian elite about how much money to allocate to the next phase of the rearmament program, from 2018 to 2025.
According to Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin, who is in charge of the defense and space industries, the draft of the 20182025 rearmament program must be finalized by July 1, 2017, and signed into law by Putin before the next New Year. Rogozin believes Russia is ready to construct aircraft carriers, but the Kremlin has not yet ordered any. Russia is building and deploying an array of new land- and sea-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM): heavy silo-based Sarmats, land-mobile Yars and Rubez missiles, as well as the sea-based Bulava "to guarantee our security." After prolonged efforts, the Russian arms industry has finally managed to resume assembly of HK-32 jet engines (designed during the Cold War) for the Tu-160 "Blackjack" supersonic heavy strategic bomber. With the HK-32 back in production, Russia can keep its present fleet of Tu-160s operational and begin the production of a modernized Tu-160M2 version. A next-generation stealth strategic bomber is being designed for possible production after 2025. The new S-400 anti-aircraft missile system has been reinforced, according to Rogozin, with a new long-range (up to 400 kilometers) missile. Development is also in progress of the S-500 long-range system, which will form the backbone of Russia's national missile defense shield (Interfax, March 2). The commandant of the Zhukov Air-Space Academy, Lieutenant General Vladimir Lyaporov, noted, "We have begun training specialists to man the S-500," which may start arriving soon (Interfax, February 25).
According to Rogozin, Russia's military capabilities have advanced dramaticallyno more old "rusty missiles." Rogozin insists no one can speak to Moscow from a position of strength: "Russia is today the only nation in the world that can stop any aggressorthe armed-to-the-teeth leader of the Western world [the US] with its alliesanywhere in the world." He further predicted that US Defense Secretary James Mattis would figure that out soon and stop making empty threats (Interfax, March 2). Of course, such posturing surely requires that Russia's rearmament program continue in full swing. Moscow apparently wants the Trump administration to make up its mind: Does it recognize Russia as an equal superpower with a designated sphere of legitimate influence, or will Washington continue to be hostile, posing a threat that may help boost more Russian defense spending and rearmament? A combination of bothrecognition of superpower status and a sphere of interest as well as a continued rivalry like during the Cold Warcould also work fine, boosting Russia's siege mentality and providing stability for the ruling elite at the same time.
Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Food Security and Chinese "Comprehensive National Security"
Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Peter Wood Publication Date 2 March 2017 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Food Security and Chinese "Comprehensive National Security", 2 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b961494.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
Link to original story on Jamestown website
On February 6, China published "Central Document No. 1", its annual statement of agricultural policy. Two weeks later, on February 20, Chinas Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) announced that it will begin its annual moratorium on fishing starting on May 1 (MOA, February 20). Though on the surface somewhat innocuous, China's agricultural and fishing policies are increasingly intersecting with its broader national security objectives. Both issues are connected by a view of national security that pulls together traditional security issues with domestic stability, economic issues and food security.
This connection can be seen in Chinese President Xi Jinping's articulated vision of security. On February 22, Xi presided over a "National Security Work Conference" in which he continued his elaboration of his "Overall Security Concept () (81.cn, February 21). Peking University International Relations Professor Ye Zicheng () explains that Xi's concept brings together a full range of issues, both traditional (foreign policy and military security) and economic (such as food security) (PKU, April 19, 2016). Domestic economic realities will increasingly affect Chinese external security decision-making.
Most attention to Chinese security policy is given to its military development and foreign relations, particularly the eastern and southern axis encompassing Taiwan, Japan, and Southeast Asia. However, the most important "direction" for Chinese security thinkers is internal (). Unsurprisingly China spends more on its stability maintenance budget () than it does on national defense (China Brief, March 6, 2014). Internal security brings sources of potential disruption into sharp focus, including social inequality and land distribution. This casts agricultural and fishing policies in a new light and makes understanding these policies more important.
Agricultural policy, for example, intersects with concerns about domestic stability and food security. Despite rapid urbanization, 44 percent of Chinese citizens still live in the countryside (World Bank, 2015 [Accessed February 20]). Improvements in the lives of China's farmers has accounted for a significant proportion of the decrease in those living in the poverty line. However, the growing disparity in wealth is a source of tensions, contributing to issues such as rising crime rates and drug use (See China Brief, February 6 and September 4, 2015, for discussion of these issues). Increased crop production and ensuring market stability are linked with raising farmers incomes. With rural governments already under budget strain and crime in the countryside on the rise, the success or failure of these policies will have a direct impact on Chinese social stability.
Though the focus of Central Document No. 1 is rural development and ways to increase the welfare of China's farmers, one section in particular is noteworthy: continual increases in grain production to ensure food security. China's ability to produce sufficient food for itself is under threat from pollution, urbanization and desertification. Though China has been able to produce most of its own grain, the issue remains a core concern for Chinese leaders, as highlighted by its inclusion in the 2015 National Security Law (). According to Article 22: The State completes a food security safeguard system, protecting and improving the overall food production capacity, improving the system for food reserves, the transport system, and market regulatory mechanisms; completing early warning systems for food security, ensuring security food supplies and quality (ChinaLawTranslate.com, MOD.gov, July 1, 2015).
These concerns have prompted Xi Jinping and others to call for a reorganization of Chinese land, the collection of smaller plots into larger ones, and the reorganization of small towns in favor of larger ones to free up land. Such policies will see greater emphasis ahead of the 19th Party Congress as Xi and other leaders attempt to deliver policy successes before the meeting.
While Document No. 1 has primarily a domestic effect, China's fishing moratorium also affects Chinese external security and diplomacy. The moratorium is meant to protect China's stocks of fish by allowing time for the fish to breed. However, the scope of the regulation directly impacts China's relations with its neighbors. Notably, the moratorium will curb fishing above 12 degrees of latitude, roughly halfway between the northern and southern halves of the South China Sea (see map). Given China's territorial claims as demarcated by the "Nine-Dash Line", the moratorium will cover much of the Philippine and Vietnamese Exclusive Economic Zones in the South China Sea. Chinese territorial claims are frequently backed up by Chinese Coast Guard vessels, meaning that the moratorium would essentially cut-off much of China's neighbors from prime fishing spots. Unsurprisingly then, Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Hai Binh responded to the moratorium, stating that "Vietnam resolutely opposes and rejects the regulation issued by China" (VNExpress, February 28). This fishing policy becomes a method for Beijing to protects its food security by ensuring stocks of fish, but also carries over into foreign policy, by acting as a way to enforce its territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Access to fish has even been a bargaining chip in China's dealings with its southern neighbors. The Philippines made guaranteed access to Scarborough Shoal a condition of its broader rapprochement with China over the summer of 2016, and Philippine fishermen were able to access the area shortly after President Duterte's meeting with Xi Jinping (Rappler, [Philippines] October 28, 2016). Chinese and Philippine Coast Guards established a hotline as part of the establishment of a Joint Coast Guard Committee (Philippine Coast Guard, February 22). Chinese fishing vessels are also clashing with other governments further afield as they look for untapped shoals, sometimes without other nations' permission. Indonesia has sunk has sunk hundreds of captured Chinese fishing vessels caught operating illegally in its waters (March 25, 2016). On the other side of the world, an Argentinian Coast Guard Vessel even sank a Chinese fishing ship after repeated warnings about operating in Argentine coastal waters (Global Times, March 17, 2016).
The role of Chinese food security policy in its broader national security concept deserves greater attention. Domestically, Chinese leaders are under pressure to deliver economic benefits to their rural citizens while reforming Chinese agriculture to protect China's ability to feed itself. Similarly, China's demand for fish is quickly exhausting local stocks, but regulationsif enforced without negotiation with China's neighborswill quickly bring tensions to a head over this limited resource.
Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Ukraine's Legal Cases Against Russia in International Courts
Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Gregorio Baggiani Publication Date 1 March 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 27 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Ukraine's Legal Cases Against Russia in International Courts, 1 March 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 27, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b961e74.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
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Ukraine has just concluded its month-long role as rotating president of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) during February 2017. Kyiv has specifically pledged to use this high-level international forum to confront Moscow for its aggression and to seek reimbursement for the damages Ukraine has incurred following Russia's forced annexation of Crimea and subsequent war in Donbas (Ukraineun.org, accessed March 1). Indeed, the question of how to legally pursue damages using international law and multinational courts has been gaining momentum recently, as Ukraine prepares for its case to be heard before the UN International Court of Justice, in The Hague (see below).
In October 2016, Ukrainian energy giant Naftohaz and six of its oil and natural gas subsidiaries officially filed an arbitration against Russian authorities, who seized the companies' assets after Moscow illegally occupied Crimea in March 2014. The Ukrainian firms heretofore operating on the Crimean peninsula never received any material compensation from Moscow. The damages are estimated at $2.6 billion (Naftogaz.com, October 19, 2016). Naftogaz, in particular, lost 15 oil and gas fieldconnected facilities in Crimea and offshore, 3 potential oil and gas extraction areas, the underground storage facility in Glebovskoe, over 1,200 kilometers of main gas pipelines, 43 gas distribution stations, 29 extraction facilities, and several other assets (Zerkalo Nedeli, October 19, 2016; see EDM, April 24, 2014). According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, six lawsuits have been initiated against the Russian Federation regarding the energy sector (Mfa.gov.ua, accessed February 28). The lawsuits were filed based on a clause in the Ukrainian-Russian intergovernmental agreement on the encouragement and mutual protection of investments, better known as the Russian-Ukrainian Bilateral Investment Treaty (Investmentpolicyhub.unctad.org, November 27, 1998). These lawsuits were initiated by Privatbank, Ukrnafta, Belbek Airport, Stabil, Everest Estate and Oschadbank. Naftogaz and several other companies are also in the process of preparing lawsuits, and they have involved legal advisers from the start so as to avoid early mistakes in forming their legal position (Zerkalo Nedeli, January 27, 2016).
In a January 2016 interview with Zerkalo Nedeli, Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Elena Zerkal explained that while her government continues to strive unrelentingly to protect Ukraine's sovereign rights and the rights of its citizens, Kyiv's actions are limited to some degree by various multilateral and bilateral agreementsincluding ones binding for both Ukraine and Russia (Zerkalo Nedeli, January 27, 2016). The problem is that there are not many tribunals whose jurisdiction is recognized by both Kyiv and Moscow.
One such prominent institution, however, is the International Court of Justicethe most authoritative judicial body with regard to handling cases involving the sovereign interests of states in the broadest sense. And indeed, as noted above, Ukraine will be pursuing its case against Russia in this forum. The trial will take place on March 6 to 9 (Zerkalo Nedeli, February 1). But complicating matters for Kyiv in this approach is the fact that both Ukraine and Russia have inherited the old Soviet practice of a highly selective recognition of the ICJ. In other words, the two sides are only able to use the ICJ to enforce their rights when both Ukraine and Russia decide at that instance to recognize the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice. Therefore, when it comes to relying on the authority of this international tribunal, the options Ukraine could take advantage of are actually quite limited.
Earlier this year, Ukraine filed a lawsuit against Russia in the ICJ over the latter's annexation of Crimea and mistreatment of the local Crimean Tatar population (UAWire, January 17). Specifically, Kyiv charged Moscow with contravening several international treaties, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (pertaining, in this case to the harassed Tatar minority in Crimea) (Ukrinform, February 15), the Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism (including considering Russia's role in the downing of Malaysian Flight 17 over occupied Donbas in mid-2017), as well as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (concerning Russian exploitation of Ukrainian fishery stocks, prevention of free navigation to Ukrainian vessels in and around Crimean waters, as well as Russia building infrastructure to which Ukraine has not given its consent). But Moscow has simply replied that everything it had done was in full compliance with international law and refused, therefore, to "legitimize" its actions by arguing its case before the ICJ (Mid.ru, January 17).
Notwithstanding its pending cases in the ICJ, the Ukrainian Ministry of Justice has repeatedly stated, in the past, that the economic losses suffered by the state following the occupation of Crimea will be reimbursed as part of the claim presented by Ukraine against Russia at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) (Interfax, February 2). Whether such an approach ultimately proves fruitful remains to be seenespecially considering that in the past two years, Russia has backed away from coming under the jurisdiction of several international tribunals. In December 2015, the State Duma passed a law allowing Russia to overrule decisions made in the ECHR; and last November, Moscow pulled out of the International Criminal Court (ICC) (The Moscow Times, December 15, 2015; Sputnik News, November 16, 2016).
The decision by the Russian authorities to circumvent various international law institutions highlights Moscow's approach to dealing with Ukrainian efforts to defend its sovereign and commercial interests in international tribunals. Indeed, Ukrainian investors who lost valuable assets in Crimea as a consequence of the occupation have a better chance of winning their case in arbitration under the bilateral agreement on the mutual protection of investments. Still, some mechanisms exist that could compel Russia to implement the decisions of the International Court of Justice in the event of a judgement friendly to Ukraine: A failure to comply with ICJ decisions would trigger the involvement of the UNSC. And as laid out in the United Nations Charter, Russia, as a member of the Security Council involved in a judicial litigation, would have to abstain from voting. In its role as a non-permanent UNSC member, Ukraine will almost certainly seek to utilize such legal strategies and institutional mechanisms this year.
Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation
New Outbreak of Violence in Karabakh: Cause and Effect
Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Gulshan Pashayeva Publication Date 2 March 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 28 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, New Outbreak of Violence in Karabakh: Cause and Effect, 2 March 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 28, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b9625e4.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
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Almost a year has passed since fierce fighting broke out for four days in April 2016, between Armenian and Azerbaijani troops in Karabakh. However, the situation along the Line of Contact (LoC) remains tense and explosive to this day.
According to the February 26 statement released by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's (OSCE) Minsk Group Co-Chairs, a serious breach of the ceasefire occurred along the LoC in the early morning of February 25, resulting in casualties. Both sides accuse each other of an incursion attempt (Osce.org, February 26). At the same time the press service of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defense reported the death of five Azerbaijani servicemen. The soldiers were reportedly killed while preventing Armenian forces from infiltrating Azerbaijani-held areas and seizing favorable positions on the Khojavand-Fuzuli part of the frontline (Trend, February 27). The bodies of the Azerbaijani servicemen were evacuated from the battlefield only after the intervention of international mediators on February 27 (Azertag.az, February 27).
Russia has remained diplomatically active on the Karabakh conflict. Moscow's role was instrumental in achieving the ceasefire agreement of April 5, 2016. And Russia played a pivotal role in arranging two consecutive meetings of the presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Vienna and St. Petersburg, in May and June 2016, respectively (see EDM, July 7, 2016). Nonetheless, popular anti-government rallies following a hostage crisis at the police station in Yerevan halted any further movement forward in the Karabakh peace process. At the same time, the appearance of Russian Iskander short-range ballistic missile systems at a military parade in Yerevan, in September 2016, represented both the hardening of the Armenian position in the negotiation process and the potential for a new arms race in the region (see EDM, September 28, 2016; October 5, 2016).
Various experts have expressed diverse views to explain the recent outbreak of violence in Karabakh. Five points should be taken into consideration in this context:
First, Russian political analyst Sergey Markedonov has argued that the Armenian and Azerbaijani societies became, in a way, hostages of last April's events. He has called the current state of play "stable instability." According to him, the status quo over Karabakh has become dynamic and is periodically tested, including attempts to use the military option. However, despite concerns about the potential outbreak of a new war, there remain many restraining factors, Markedonov asserted (Haqqin.az, February 27).
Second, the latest outbreak of violence occurred while preparations were under way in Azerbaijan for a nationwide commemorative march devoted to the 25th anniversary of the capture of the Karabakh town of Khojaly. On the night of February 2526, 1992, 613 Azerbaijanisincluding 106 women, 63 children and 70 elderly peoplewere killed in Khojaly at the hands of the Armenian Armed Forces, with the assistance of the Russian (formerly Soviet) 366th Motor Rifle Regiment. On February 26, 2017, more than 40,000 people, led by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, took part in this march (APA, February 26). Additionally, leading Russian military expert Colonel (Ret.) Igor Korotchenko noted that, President Aliyev's official visit to Qatar, which was also scheduled on the same day, signifies that Azerbaijan could not have been interested in violent escalation along the LoC at this time (Haqqin.az, February 26).
Third, according to Hikmat Hajiyev, the spokesperson for Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the recent violence on the frontline is a continuation of Armenia's political and military provocations aimed at "undermining the efforts for a solution of the conflict via the substantive talks, diverting the attention of the international community on the eve of the Khojaly genocide [sic] from the responsibilities borne by Armenia for Khojaly, and strengthening [the government's] already-lost social support base and the position of Armenia's ruling regime in the forthcoming Armenian parliamentary elections" (Azertag.az, February 25). Some experts also believe that Armenia is striving to regain positions around the village of Talish and Leletepe Hill, which it lost in April 2016, in order to demonstrate "the efficiency" of the Armenian Army's new leadership. This is particularly significant since Armenia's former defense minister, Seyran Ohanyan, has moved into the opposition against President Serzh Sargsyan (Kavkavzsky Uzel, February 26).
Fourth, the illegal "referendum" in Azerbaijan's separatist Karabakh region, held on February 20, is a vivid violation of Azerbaijan's constitution as well as of the norms and principles of international law. Today, no countries, including Armenia and Azerbaijan, recognize Karabakh as an independent and sovereign state. The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, meanwhile, stated that they do not accept the results of this "referendum," adding that the "results also in no way prejudge the final status of Nagorno-Karabakh or the outcome of the ongoing negotiations to bring a lasting and peaceful settlement to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict" (Osce.org, February 17).
Fifth, the late-February violence notwithstanding, other recent developments around Karabakh have brought new perspectives for pushing the conflict resolution process forward. On the one hand, the Belarusian authorities' arrest and extradition to Azerbaijan of travel blogger Alexander Lapshin, a citizen of Russia, Israel and Ukraine, may become a precedent to prevent others from visiting the so-called "Nagorno-Karabakh Republic" (NKR) in the future (see EDM, February 13). On the other hand, some limited recapture of Azerbaijani territories by Azerbaijan's forces last year have created a unique opportunity to restore the village of Jojug Marjanli (Jabrayil region). More than 190 out of the 400 families who once lived in the village have already expressed a desire to return to their homeland. And in a Presidential Order, signed on January 24, 2017, Aliyev allocated four million manats ($2.05 million) from the president's 2017 Contingency Fund for the restoration of this village. Two trips were organized to acquaint nearly 30 representatives of foreign media outlets and almost 60 heads of diplomatic missions of foreign states accredited in Azerbaijan with the ongoing de-mining and construction work in the village so far (Azernews.az, February 7, 15).
Thus, it seems that the potential for peace has not yet been exhausted. But a significant political and diplomatic commitment will be needed from the mediators' end. One possibility might be to convene a Minsk Conference on Karabakh, at the level of the foreign ministers of all members of the OSCE Minsk Group. This ministerial could be tasked with evaluating the work done so far, over the past nearly 25 years, toward a comprehensive peace agreement.
Copyright notice: 2010 The Jamestown Foundation
UN urges Sri Lanka not to miss chance to advance justice, reconciliation
Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 3 March 2017 Related Document(s) Report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka Cite as UN News Service, UN urges Sri Lanka not to miss chance to advance justice, reconciliation, 3 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b98ea54.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
The slow pace of transitional justice in Sri Lanka and the lack of a comprehensive strategy to address accountability for past crimes risk derailing the momentum towards lasting peace, reconciliation and stability, a United Nations report said today.
"Seventeen months ago, when we published a detailed report on the grave human rights violations committed during the conflict in Sri Lanka, I urged the Government and all the people of Sri Lanka to ensure that this historic opportunity for truly fundamental change should not be squandered," UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein said in a news release on the report.
He noted that in many ways, Sri Lanka appears to be turning a corner on the promotion and protection of human rights, but he stressed that hard-won gains could prove illusory if they are not tethered to a comprehensive, robust strategy.
"This critical opportunity in Sri Lankan history cannot be missed," he said, urging the Government and people of Sri Lanka once again to prioritize justice alongside reconciliation to ensure that the horrors of the past are firmly dealt with, never to recur.
The report, issued by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), assesses progress made in tackling the legacy of grave violations in Sri Lanka between 2002 and 2011 and acknowledges that there have been positive advances on human rights and constitutional reform.
However, the report notes that the structures set up and measures taken until now have been inadequate, lacked coordination and a sense of urgency.
"Party politics, including the balancing of power between the different constituencies of the coalition in the run-up to constitutional reforms, have contributed to a reluctance to address difficult issues regarding accountability or to clearly articulate a unified position by all parts of Government," the report states.
The report makes a number of concrete recommendations, including calling on the Government to embrace the report of the Consultation Task Force, to formulate a communications campaign to inform the public about details of the reconciliation agenda, to invite the UN human rights office to establish a presence in Sri Lanka, to give the highest priority to the restitution of all private land that has been occupied by the military, and to adopt legislation establishing a hybrid court.
The report also highlights a number of serious human rights violations that are reportedly continuing to occur in Sri Lanka, including the harassment or surveillance of human rights defenders and victims of violations, police abuse and excessive use of force, and the use of torture.
The High Commissioner will present the report to the Human Rights Council on 22 March in Geneva.
Berta Caceres and the open wounds of Honduras
Publisher Amnesty International Author Ariadna Tovar Publication Date 3 March 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Berta Caceres and the open wounds of Honduras, 3 March 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/58b98f324.html [accessed 7 November 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.
The last time I spoke to Berta Caceres, Lenca Indigenous environmental defender in Honduras and founder of the National Council of Popular and Indigenous Organizations of Honduras (Consejo Civico de Organizaciones Populares e Indigenas de Honduras, COPINH), I heard the seriousness of the situation reflected in her voice.
The campaign which COPINH had been carrying out for years against the installation of the Agua Zarca hydroelectric project, on the River Gualcarque, was conflicting with powerful economic and political interests, and threats against her and other members of COPINH were becoming all too common.
Stopping their work was not an option. The progression of the project put the community's access to a sacred river at great risk, and that was non-negotiable.
Our telephone conversation was brief. We spoke about an Amnesty International visit to the Rio Blanco community, one of the many which form part of COPINH.
Berta offered to be our guide, as she had done on many occasions throughout her long-standing collaboration with Amnesty. She told us that she thought it was essential to include the community's situation in our research on the increase in attacks suffered by those who dedicate their lives to the defence of the land, territory and environment in Honduras.
We said our goodbyes, thinking that the next time we spoke it would be in person. I never imagined that it would be the last time we spoke.
One month later, on 2 March 2016, we received the unbearable news: Berta had been cruelly killed, shot dead, at home in her bedroom.
Simple. Brutal.
We landed in Tegucigalpa three days after the killing. The atmosphere in the capital and in the rest of the county was a mixture of pain, chaos and fear.
Despite the many threats which Berta had been subjected to due to her work, some authorities insisted that the killing had taken place during a robbery, and others claimed, more seriously, that it was a crime of passion. The sole witness and survivor of the attack, Mexican human rights defender Gustavo Castro, was forbidden from leaving the country despite the risk he faced and despite having attended the various different judicial proceedings which he had been cited for.
The members of COPINH were terrified. If someone was capable of killing Berta, winner of the Goldman Environmental Prize and internationally recognized, how could anyone else expect to be safe?
Impunity reigns in Honduras, and everyone knows it.
And not only in murder cases. In the majority of cases of threats, attacks, arson, forced entry, illegal evictions, criminalization and other forms of violence against human rights defenders, the perpetrators go unpunished.
Despite the seriousness of the situation, neither the Attorney General, Oscar Chinchilla, nor the President, Juan Orlando Hernandez, agreed to meet with us. We have been requesting meetings with the president for over a year and have been continually rejected. Rather than reply to us, he has now blocked us on Twitter.
It was not until a month after Berta was killed that the Attorney General publicly accepted that her murder could have been in response to her work as a human rights defender. He promised that this would be taken into account as a line of investigation.
However one year on from the tragedy that deeply wounded the human rights movement both in Honduras and around the world, the progress made has been negligible.
In the months following the killing, the authorities arrested six suspects for involvement in the crime. Two of them had connections to the armed forces, either active members or retired, and another two had connections to the company in charge of the Agua Zarca project - a manager and a former head of security. Subsequently, in the first few months of 2017, two additional suspects were captured, one in Mexico.
However, the question remains whether the investigation has been enough to identify the intellectual authors behind this and to stop the wave of attacks which dozens of human rights defenders continue to be victims of.
In February 2017 a media campaign emerged discrediting and delegitimizing several different civil society organizations, and among them was COPINH. They were accused of being liars and promoting a negative image of Honduras. The stigmatization came from individuals associated with business groups, but was also reinforced by the silence of President Hernandez, who, despite repeated calls from the international community, did not condemn these statements nor publicly recognize the legitimate work of those who defend the land, territory and environment.
"We have to protect our image very carefully and if we have a problem, we need to fix it and ensure justice" the president said at the beginning of February of this year.
But what kind of justice is President Hernandez referring to? The kind where all the material and intellectual perpetrators of Berta's killing are identified? Justice whereby the state authorities, including those at the highest level, work emphatically to change language which portrays human rights defenders as enemies of the country, allowing them to be killed as Berta was? Justice which recognizes, publicly and consistently, that human rights defenders are carrying out essential and legitimate work?
As you can see, Mr. President, Honduras does have a problem, and it must be fixed.
Copyright notice: Copyright Amnesty International